Some things demand your best

I'm Crafty Like That...

2011-07-19T16:39:00.000-07:00

Because a certain youngest sister really wants them....

Because I love me some cute cards just as much as the next girl, and I get to say I made them...

Next Up....a pageant dress for Bella!!!

Where should I begin?

I'm Alive

2011-06-02T19:09:00.000-07:00

I know, I am not the best "blogger", but life happens.

It hasn't been the best start or should I say half of 2011, however life is good.

I am thankful for my family.

The Gospel.

The Plan of Salvation.

My Faith.

My Heavenly Father.

Sometimes it's difficult to remember the important things in life aren't things, it's the people we love, the things we do and the people we are and become.

"The great task of life is to learn the will of the Lord and then do it."
— Ezra Taft Benson

LDS.org - Ensign Article - “An High Priest of Good Things to Come”

2010-07-02T20:43:00.000-07:00

LDS.org - Ensign Article - “An High Priest of Good Things to Come”

30

2010-07-02T20:33:00.000-07:00

That's my magic number...I am going to make the most of it! ;)

Remember to be Thankful

2010-03-18T19:25:00.000-07:00

"Jenkins Lloyd Jones said, 'Anyone who imagines that bliss is normal is going to waste a lot of time running around shouting that they've been robbed. Most putts don't drop. Most beef is tough. Most children grow up to be just people. Most successful marriages require a high degree of mutual toleration. Most jobs are more often dull than otherwise. Life is like an old-time rail journey - delays, sidetracks, smoke, dust, cinders, and jolts, interspersed only occasionally with beautiful vistas and thrilling bursts of speed. The trick is to thank the Lord for letting you have the ride.'...the trick is to thank the Lord for letting you have the ride; and really, isn't it a wonderful ride? Enjoy it! Laugh about it! Sing about it!" - Gordon B Hinckley

Family

2010-02-28T19:21:00.000-08:00

"If you want something to last forever, you treat it differently. … It becomes special because you have made it so."

FaMiLiEs!

Today's topic of assignment for Sacrament Meeting was on the family.

It was great to hear the speakers' words and be reminded of the importance of our families and what we really should be focusing on while we are here on earth.

- Be CONSISTENT in holding daily family prayer and weekly family home evening

- Teach the gospel and basic values in our home

-Create meaningful family bonds

- Know that our Father in Heaven loves us and wants us to succeed

- Our Savior died for us, so that we could experience this life and return to our Father

What matters most is what lasts longest, and our families are for eternity!

"If you want something to last forever, you treat it differently. You shield it and protect it. You never abuse it. You don’t expose it to the elements. You don’t make it common or ordinary. If it ever becomes tarnished, you lovingly polish it until it gleams like new. It becomes special because you have made it so, and it grows more beautiful and precious as time goes by."

Inspiration for My Day

2010-02-27T13:01:00.000-08:00

"Somehow forgiveness, with love and tolerance, accomplishes miracles that can happen in no other way"

I have heard/read this talk serveral times, but every time I have read it, it means something else to me personally. Today, it made me cry, but a good cry, because I know that my Saviour loves me. It's exactly what I needed to know, especially the last two paragraphs.

Forgiveness

My dear brothers and sisters, I thank my Father in Heaven that He has prolonged my life to be a part of these challenging times. I thank Him for the opportunity of service. I have no desire but to do all that I can in furthering the work of the Lord, in serving His faithful people, and in living at peace with my neighbors.
I recently traveled around the world, more than 25,000 miles, visiting Alaska, Russia, Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, India, Kenya, and Nigeria, where in this last place we dedicated a new temple. We then dedicated the Newport Beach California Temple. I have just been to Samoa for another temple dedication, another 10,000 miles. I do not enjoy travel, but it is my wish to get out among our people to extend appreciation and encouragement, and to bear testimony of the divinity of the Lord’s work.
I often think of a poem I read long ago. It goes like this:
Let me live in a house by the side of the road, Where the race of men go by— The men who are good and the men who are bad, As good and as bad as I.
I would not sit in the scorner’s seat, Or hurl the cynic’s ban;— Let me live in a house by the side of the road And be a friend to man. (Sam Walter Foss, “The House by the Side of the Road,” in James Dalton Morrison, ed., Masterpieces of Religious Verse [1948], 422)
That is the way I feel.
Age does something to a man. It seems to make him more aware of the need for kindness and goodness and forbearance. He wishes and prays that men might live together in peace without war and contention, argument and conflict. He grows increasingly aware of the meaning of the great Atonement of the Redeemer, of the depth of His sacrifice, and of gratitude to the Son of God, who gave His life that we might live.
I wish today to speak of forgiveness. I think it may be the greatest virtue on earth, and certainly the most needed. There is so much of meanness and abuse, of intolerance and hatred. There is so great a need for repentance and forgiveness. It is the great principle emphasized in all of scripture, both ancient and modern.
In all of our sacred scripture, there is no more beautiful story of forgiveness than that of the prodigal son found in the 15th chapter of Luke. Everyone should read and ponder it occasionally.
“And when [the prodigal] had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.
“And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.
“And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.
“And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!
“I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,
“And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.
“And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
“And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son” (Luke 15:14–21).
And the father caused that a great feast should be held, and when his other son complained, he said to him, “It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found” (Luke 15:32).
When there has been wrongdoing and then there has come repentance, followed by forgiveness, then literally the offender who was lost is found, and he who was dead is made alive.
How wonderful are the blessings of mercy and forgiveness.
The Marshall Plan following World War II with the gift of millions of dollars helped put Europe on its feet.
In Japan, after this same war, I saw great steel mills, the money for which I was told had come from America, Japan’s former enemy. How much better this world is because of the forgiveness of a generous nation in behalf of its former enemies.
In the Sermon on the Mount, the Lord taught:
“Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:
“But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
“And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also.
“And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain.
“Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.
“Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matt. 5:38–44).
Those are very strong words.
Do you really think you could follow that injunction? They are the words of the Lord Himself, and I think they apply to each of us.
The scribes and Pharisees brought before Jesus a woman taken in adultery so that they might entrap Him.
“But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not.
“So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.
“And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground.
“And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.
“When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?
“She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more” (John 8:6–11).
The Savior taught of leaving the ninety and nine to find the lost sheep, that forgiveness and restitution might come.
Isaiah declared:
“Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil;
“Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow.
“Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool” (Isa. 1:16–18).
The great crowning love of the Savior was expressed when in His dying agony He cried out, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34).
In our day the Lord has said in revelation:
“Wherefore, I say unto you, that ye ought to forgive one another; for he that forgiveth not his brother his trespasses standeth condemned before the Lord; for there remaineth in him the greater sin.
“I, the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men” (D&C 64:9–10).
The Lord has offered a marvelous promise. Said He, “He who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more” (D&C 58:42).
There are so many in our day who are unwilling to forgive and forget. Children cry and wives weep because fathers and husbands continue to bring up little shortcomings that are really of no importance. And there also are many women who would make a mountain out of every little offending molehill of word or deed.
A time back, I clipped a column from the Deseret Morning News, written by Jay Evensen. With his permission, I quote from a part of it. Wrote he:
“How would you feel toward a teenager who decided to toss a 20-pound frozen turkey from a speeding car headlong into the windshield of the car you were driving? How would you feel after enduring six hours of surgery using metal plates and other hardware to piece your face together, and after learning you still face years of therapy before returning to normal—and that you ought to feel lucky you didn’t die or suffer permanent brain damage?
“And how would you feel after learning that your assailant and his buddies had the turkey in the first place because they had stolen a credit card and gone on a senseless shopping spree, just for kicks? …
“This is the kind of hideous crime that propels politicians to office on promises of getting tough on crime. It’s the kind of thing that prompts legislators to climb all over each other in a struggle to be the first to introduce a bill that would add enhanced penalties for the use of frozen fowl in the commission of a crime.
“The New York Times quoted the district attorney as saying this is the sort of crime for which victims feel no punishment is harsh enough. ‘Death doesn’t even satisfy them,’ he said.
“Which is what makes what really happened so unusual. The victim, Victoria Ruvolo, a 44-year-old former manager of a collections agency, was more interested in salvaging the life of her 19-year-old assailant, Ryan Cushing, than in exacting any sort of revenge. She pestered prosecutors for information about him, his life, how he was raised, etc. Then she insisted on offering him a plea deal. Cushing could serve six months in the county jail and be on probation for 5 years if he pleaded guilty to second-degree assault.
“Had he been convicted of first-degree assault—the charge most fitting for the crime—he could have served 25 years in prison, finally thrown back into society as a middle-aged man with no skills or prospects.
“But this is only half the story. The rest of it, what happened the day this all played out in court, is the truly remarkable part.
“According to an account in the New York Post, Cushing carefully and tentatively made his way to where Ruvolo sat in the courtroom and tearfully whispered an apology. ‘I’m so sorry for what I did to you.’
“Ruvolo then stood, and the victim and her assailant embraced, weeping. She stroked his head and patted his back as he sobbed, and witnesses, including a Times reporter, heard her say, ‘It’s OK. I just want you to make your life the best it can be.’ According to accounts, hardened prosecutors, and even reporters, were choking back tears” (“Forgiveness Has Power to Change Future,” Deseret Morning News, Aug. 21, 2005, p. AA3).
What a great story that is, greater because it actually happened, and that it happened in tough old New York. Who can feel anything but admiration for this woman who forgave the young man who might have taken her life?
I know this is a delicate and sensitive thing of which I am speaking. There are hardened criminals who may have to be locked up. There are unspeakable crimes, such as deliberate murder and rape, that justify harsh penalties. But there are some who could be saved from long, stultifying years in prison because of an unthoughtful, foolish act. Somehow forgiveness, with love and tolerance, accomplishes miracles that can happen in no other way.
The great Atonement was the supreme act of forgiveness. The magnitude of that Atonement is beyond our ability to completely understand. I know only that it happened, and that it was for me and for you. The suffering was so great, the agony so intense, that none of us can comprehend it when the Savior offered Himself as a ransom for the sins of all mankind.
It is through Him that we gain forgiveness. It is through Him that there comes the certain promise that all mankind will be granted the blessings of salvation, with resurrection from the dead. It is through Him and His great overarching sacrifice that we are offered the opportunity through obedience of exaltation and eternal life.
May God help us to be a little kinder, showing forth greater forbearance, to be more forgiving, more willing to walk the second mile, to reach down and lift up those who may have sinned but have brought forth the fruits of repentance, to lay aside old grudges and nurture them no more. For this I humbly pray, in the sacred name of our Redeemer, even the Lord Jesus Christ, amen.

2010 Goals

2010-01-13T19:02:00.000-08:00

In no particular order, I want to:

1: Take a sewing class with my cool new sewing machine that I received for Christmas. I am so excited about this…now I just have to learn how to use it!

2: Consistently workout and make it a part of every day. For so long I use to do this, I am incredibly upset that I let myself get out of this habit, which is why I am a bit unhappy with my current health state.

3: Read my scriptures everyday! This should be so easy, but unfortunately I let things get in the way when I shouldn’t. I have started this year off with renewed zest and plan on staying on top of things.

4: See Wicked! Finally! I have missed this show two times within the past two years because we had to move. First from Orlando then from Denver, so I am extremely happy that it will be making a stop in Miami and that we will get to go and see it. Woohoo!

5: Move into our own home. So, we don’t have one yet and we have just barely started looking, but I long for the days when my things are not in storage and when I need something I don’t have to go scourging through taped up boxes; only to come up empty handed. Don’t get me wrong, I am so grateful for the generosity of my sister and brother in law to let us live with them, but it will be nice to have my own things back.

6: Keep our jobs! I am very humble, happy, ecstatic, (insert your own happy word here) that Russell and I have jobs. My goal is that we keep them thru 2010 and beyond ;)

7: Take the time to reach out to my friends and family throughout the year, especially when I am thinking of them. Too often I let the thought go and allow time to play a part in not making a phone call, etc.

8: Take a photography class and then learn how to take really awesome pictures. I would love to capture awesome moments in time and be able to share that with people.

9: Not cook Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. There comes a point in ones life in which you recognize that there are just too many people with too little space. My family reached their capacity probably 10 years ago, but we just didn’t acknowledge it. My sister and I are in on this together. Publix will suffice for our holiday meal plans and we will gladly let them.

10: Be a better wife. Not that I am bad, (I hope Russell agrees) but I’ve only done it for two years at this point, so I am hoping that every day I can get a little better. Because let’s be honest, we can all always do a little bit more.

Quitter

2010-01-07T16:27:00.000-08:00

I am loving this song right now. The entire cd by Ms. Underwood (soon to be Mrs. Fisher, isn't that funny?) is really great, although this one just gets to me. I love it!

Here's how it goes
Boy meets girl
Girl leaves boy
That's all I know
All I've done, all my life

'Cause throughout my history
I've only been with jerks
Who couldn't take it
But you see the picket fence
A swing on the front porch with us two on it

When I believe that nothing lasts forever
You stay with me, keeping us together
And make me feel like I never, ever wanna give you up
'Til now, I've always been a quitter

You rescued me
Saved my life, just in time
Saw past all my issues and scars
And made me try

'Cause ohhh, the way you're kissing me makes it hard to breathe
But I still like it
Oh, oh, it truly feels like a dream
You know exactly how I want it

When I believe that nothing lasts forever
You stay with me, keeping us together
And make me feel like I never, ever wanna give you up
'Til now, I've always been a quitterI've always been a quitter

When I believe that nothing lasts forever
You stay with me, keeping us together
And make me feel like I never, ever wanna give you up
'Til now, I've always been a quitterI've always been a quitter

What is Christmas?

2009-12-11T21:27:00.000-08:00

Thomas S. Monson, “What Is Christmas?,” Ensign, Dec 1998, 2

This is a glorious time of the year, simple in origin, deep in meaning, beautiful in tradition and custom, rich in memories, and charitable in spirit. It has an attraction to which our hearts are readily drawn. This joyful season brings to each of us a measure of happiness that corresponds to the degree in which we have turned our mind, feelings, and actions to the spirit of Christmas.

There’s Christmas in the home and church,
There’s Christmas in the mart;
But you’ll not know what Christmas is
Unless it’s in your heart.

The bells may call across the snow,
And carols search the air;
But, oh, the heart will miss the thrill
Unless it’s Christmas there.

Christmas is children. As a young elder, I had been called to the old Primary Children’s Hospital that once stood on North Temple Street in Salt Lake City. There were children to be blessed. It was the Christmas season. I had never been in a children’s hospital before.

As our group entered the foyer, we noticed an attractively decorated Christmas tree, with beautifully wrapped gifts beneath its boughs.

A feeling of sympathy welled up within me as I noticed these tiny children, many with legs or arms in large plaster casts. Some were ever so weak and pale.

A young lad called out to us, “Will you give me a blessing?” Of course the blessing was given. I shall ever remember placing my hands on the tousled head of that faithful boy who was desperately ill. As we left his side, he looked up into my eyes and said, “Thank you, Brother Monson.”

We walked away, only to hear him call out, “Oh, Brother Monson, merry Christmas to you.” I could scarcely see him for the tears in my eyes. He had that glow about him that comes only at Christmastime. That boy trusted in his Heavenly Father. He acknowledged the priesthood of God. His faith was unwavering. I felt I was on holy ground.

What made the glow emanate from the presence of this faithful boy? It was the Christmas spirit. Why does peace come closer to reality at this season than at any other? Why is it that more friends are remembered and more enemies forgiven at the Christmas season than at any other time? It is the Christmas spirit.

Christmas is remembering. A year ago our thoughts turned to the celebration of the sesquicentennial of the arrival of the pioneers in the valley of the Great Salt Lake in 1847. What was Christmas like that year?

From an entry in the diary of Mrs. Rebecca Riter, dated December 25, 1847, we read: “The winter was cold. Christmas came and the children were hungry. I had brought a peck of wheat across the plains and hid it under a pile of wood. I thought I would cook a handful of wheat for the baby. Then I thought how we would need wheat for seed in the spring, so I left it alone.”

Christmas is giving. Ralph Waldo Emerson, the poet, wrote: “Rings and jewels are not gifts, but apologies for gifts. The only [true] gift is a portion of thyself.” 1

President David O. McKay said: “True happiness comes only by making others happy—the practical application of the Savior’s doctrine of losing one’s life to gain it. In short, the Christmas spirit is the Christ spirit, that makes our hearts glow in brotherly love and friendship and prompts us to kind deeds of service.

“It is the spirit of the gospel of Jesus Christ, obedience to which will bring ‘peace on earth,’ because it means—good will toward all men.” 2

A few years ago I received an anonymous letter from a kindhearted dentist who demonstrated brotherly love and goodwill. I’d like to share it with you:

“Dear President Monson:

“I feel remiss in that I should have sent you a thank-you note sooner. Last December I listened to your talk given during the Christmas devotional. You spoke of an older woman who could not afford to pay for the registration for an automobile she had recently purchased. Others came to her aid. All involved were touched.

“I am a dentist by profession. Not long after the devotional, my receptionist informed me that an acquaintance of hers was coming into my office. She had problems with two of her teeth. She knew this woman and told me of her circumstances. The woman carried many burdens. The family business, which she ran, was doing poorly and the family was three months behind in paying rent. They had five children, many grown into adulthood, but all had moved back home because of difficult personal circumstances. By sheer force of will, she had kept her family together for some time. Now two teeth were broken.

“The woman arrived for her appointment and explained about her dental problem. She asked if I would allow her to pay her bill over time. She explained to me that her family had experienced several financial reversals and were just recently starting to pay some overdue bills.

“I assured her that her credit was good with me. She asked if I could repair just one of the two broken teeth at that time. I assured her that I could, and we began.

“Since I had the time, I repaired both teeth, for which she was grateful. When the work was completed, thinking of your talk, I told her that if she would not be offended, I should like to make a Christmas present of the dental work, for which there would be no bill. She was astonished. I could sense the depth of the stress and strain she had carried, as uncontrollable tears of gratitude gushed forth due to a small, simple act of kindness. It must have been years since someone showed her some little favor. Not able to speak, she made her way out.

“Both my assistant and receptionist were so moved by her reaction that they also sprouted tears and could hardly speak. I, on the other hand, was doubly glad. One part, in seeing such a simple act have such a happy effect on another. And the second part, for once in my life having a patient in my office crying for joy, and not for pain!

“To you, my very best wishes.

“Sincerely,

“A brother in the gospel”

Christmas is prophecy fulfilled. On the eve of His birth, the voice of the Lord came unto Nephi, saying, “Lift up your head and be of good cheer; for behold, the time is at hand, and on this night shall the sign be given, and on the morrow come I into the world, to show unto the world that I will fulfil all that which I have caused to be spoken by the mouth of my holy prophets.” 3

What did the holy prophets of old declare? Isaiah, more than 700 years before the birth of Christ, prophesied, “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” 4

On the American continent, King Benjamin said, “For behold, the time cometh, and is not far distant, that with power, the Lord Omnipotent … shall dwell in a tabernacle of clay. … He shall suffer temptations, and pain. … And he shall be called Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Father of heaven and earth, the Creator of all things from the beginning; and his mother shall be called Mary.” 5

Then came that night of nights when the shepherds were abiding in the fields and the angel of the Lord appeared to them, announcing: “Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy. … For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” 6

The shepherds with haste went to the manger to pay honor to Christ the Lord. Later, wise men journeyed from the East to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. … When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.” 7

Since that time, the spirit of giving gifts has been present in the mind of each Christian as he or she commemorates the Christmas season. Our Heavenly Father gave to us His Son, Jesus Christ. That precious Son gave to us His life, the Atonement, and victory over the grave.

What will you and I give for Christmas this year? Let us in our lives give to our Lord and Savior the gift of gratitude by living His teachings and following in His footsteps. It was said of Him that He “went about doing good.” 8 As we do likewise, the Christmas spirit will be ours.

Happiness

2009-11-16T19:22:00.000-08:00

It is amazing how filling our minds and spirits with things that are good, will change a somewhat melancholy mood almost immediately. I was just having an off day or as I say "a funk", Russell suggested I do some scripture study, but I also searched some topics on happiness. I came across these wonderful quotes from President Hinkley in the August 1997 Ensign and they really lifted my spirit.

Our Accountability to God

“I thank the Lord for the root of the gospel of Jesus Christ. That is where we draw our strength. That is the source of our faith. That is the source of our understanding of things divine. That is the thing which brings purpose to our lives. …
“We are sons and daughters of God, our Eternal Father. Did you ever stop to think of what that means, that each of us has something of divinity within ourselves? It does not matter the color of our skin or the color of our hair. Each of us comes into this world with a divine birthright as sons and daughters of God. And as certainly as we are sons and daughters of God, someday we will have to account to Him for the way we have lived our lives. Will we be just a beautiful rose for a day or two, or will we be planted in the eternal truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ? My brothers and sisters, how thankful I am for the gospel of Jesus Christ into which we can sink our roots and partake of the strength that comes therefrom. Life is purposeful under those circumstances. Life becomes a mission more than a career. We have more to do than to earn a living. We must live to serve” (fireside, Fukuoka, Japan, 19 May 1996).

The Way of Happiness

“The way of the Lord is the way of happiness. ‘Wickedness never was happiness’ [Alma 41:10]. Transgression never was happiness. Sin never was happiness. Disobedience never was happiness. The way of happiness is following the way of the Lord. I believe this with all my heart. If there is any message that runs through all of the Book of Mormon, it is this great, transcendent message—that when the people lived in righteousness, they were happy and they were prospered; and when they fell into wickedness, they were miserable, they were at war, they were in poverty, they were in trouble. That theme goes all the way through the Book of Mormon. As it was true then, so it is true now. The way of happiness for the people of this Church lies in following the ways of the Lord” (Oahu, Hawaii, regional conference, 18 Feb. 1996).

I have met you yet, but it's still a great song....

2009-10-07T18:31:00.001-07:00

Thanks to Mr. Buble' for always bringing great music into our lives.

2nd Anniversary!!!

2009-09-15T19:19:00.000-07:00

Wow! It sure doesn't feel like two years! It seems like it was just yesterday that we were dating and falling in lerve. :) I love you hunny! Here is to many more and forever.

What's Been Up

2009-09-13T19:19:00.001-07:00

I am becoming a master Lego engineer...seriously, do they have jobs like that? I even have satisfied customers. ;)

Visiting and meeting new friends/family to celebrate two little girls on the way, to watch nerve racking football games, make pancakes, window shopping I-Drive, eat Anthony's pizza, dressing Russell up as a baby for said baby shower,and just sitting around visiting and catching up.

Root Canal - Pain, pain, and more pain. The worst part? That the endodontist didn't prescribe an antibiotic until two days later..."Oh, maybe the infection didn't go away" he says. Ya think? I probably couldn't sleep for three nights straight (unfortunately for Russell) and apparently I can't take pain medicine without getting very sick. I'll sign up for this being my first and last root canal.

Kenny Chesney - my oldest sister Michelle bought us all tickets to go and see him in concert this past Friday. Miranda Lambert was the opening act and he rocked it, as much as you can rock it country. Many people were very drunk, so we actually not only had the music entertainment, we had all of our surrounding friends to thank for some of the nights most memorable moments. Also, if you have seen Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist...we saw the girl who played Norah's friend Coraline. http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0310966/ Check out that link for a visual. Obviously it really wasn't her, but she totally acted and looked just like the actress. Fun Times. Thanks Michelle. We had a blast!

Sunday, Already?

2009-08-30T19:05:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's already Sunday night...and tomorrow will start another week! The weekends just fly by, leaving little room for much fun.

Here are some things we've been up to:

Russell is still job hunting...but staying busy teaching the 11 year olds at church and being the "threatening disciplinarian" to my two nephews. They are afraid for him to put them into time out, ever. He's going to be a great dad ;)

I've been working, reading the Harry Potter books (I know I am probably the last person on the planet to read them), and trying to get a blog started for crafts, jewlery, etc. I just need an idea for a name for it, if anyone has any suggestions....

Today I gave a talk at church. So nerve racking, but I was so glad when it was over. I was also just called as an Enrichment Leader and Visiting Teaching Supervisor, so that should be good.

We've met some really nice people in our ward and plan to actually do some things with them one day, so we will see how that goes. (James and Michelle, we don't think they will measure up, whadda ya think? ;) )

Other than that, this weekend we are heading to Orlando to see my grandparents and family, go to my friends baby shower, and of course the BYU vs. Oklahoma football game. It should be a fun filled, busy weekend. It's nice to see everyone, but so difficult to fit it in to basically two days.

Hopefully everything is going well for everyone else!

I have been slacking in the picture taking aspect of my life, but I really need to get back to it. I will try this week.

Catch Up, Sort Of

2009-07-14T19:34:00.000-07:00

I really want to be good at posting...but life seems to get in the way. Or laziness. I will just call it a tie.
Things have been pretty hectic for us here in Florida, but I think we are getting in to a routine, finally.
I started working at my new job last week and Russell has an interview this week, so we are hopeful that he will also have a job soon.
Recreational wise we have hung out with my nephews, who are threatened by the phrase, "If you don't (fill in the blank), Russell will put you in time out." It's pretty funny. And I admit I use it probably too often as Russell pointed out. Swimming on the weekends, 4th of July attending the Russ and Robbie reunion, and it is the summer, so there have been birthdays pretty much every other week it seems. The next important one for everyone to calendar is next Tuesday, July 21st.
It's a Hottie's birthday....Russell. I am ahead of the game and already have his gift and everything.
I enjoy reminding Russell that I already got it and he wishes he knew what it was. I will let you all in on the gift when he actually gets it.
Anywhoo...I have an amazingly horrid headache, so I am going to go to bed now and next time post with some pictures and some funny video clips.
Peace.

Florida, here we come!

2009-05-21T16:39:00.000-07:00

So, for those who are living in the dark and haven't heard, Russell and I are moving back to Florida.
We are sad to leave our friends behind(Most importantly James, Michelle and Keegan) and I will actually really miss Colorado.
It really felt like my home.
But I will also be happy to be around my family and not have to worry about if I can buy a plane ticket to see them all the time.
Things are going well for job interviews, so we are hopeful that we will once again be gainfully employed.
I just felt like that I never updated my blog anymore, so wanted to give an update, however small it may be. Until I post again...hopefully sooner rather than later.

Tired

2009-04-18T22:47:00.000-07:00

I was going to try and post something, maybe funny, witty, or who knows what.
But after changing my blog background whilst watching Heroes, I am too tired.
So, maybe tomorrow and I will discuss the plans I have for my hair.
What a cliffhanger, I know you all are dying in anticipation and will be waiting for my next post with baited breath!
Good night!

Is it Friday Yet?

2009-02-26T20:37:00.000-08:00

This week Russell left me....for Arizona that is.
So, I've been left to occupy myself and keep busy.
It hasn't been too difficult, since work takes up most of the day.
Throw in some babysitting.
A Visiting Teaching birthday dinner.
Cleaning and viola....
Before I knew it, tomorrow is Friday and Russell will be back.
It's amazing though....the nights go by much slower when I am all alone.
So I am not looking forward to a fast weekend.
But I am looking forward to a full night of uniterrupted, worry free sleep.

Self Challenge

2009-02-22T16:18:00.000-08:00

I love this challenge. I have only actually done it once and it really does work. I think Self has some great information all around about health and fitness, but I really like their exercises and strength moves that they suggest. I fondly recall when the little “arm fat roll” didn’t use to exist on my arm and upon its immanent return, I knew I had fallen victim to the tried and true tested case of the lazys. Pure laziness and lack of enough exercise.

Not that I need more challenges in my life, but I would enjoy being healthier; and thinner would be an added benefit of it. And this is a challenge I can handle. I also long for the days of wearing my cute jeans that are sadly sitting, collecting dust in our closet. Waiting oh so patiently to once again see the light of day.

I know it’s also said that having a partner who will help you in your goals is very crucial and those who work together tend to be more successful. But I have to admit that Russell got the raw end of the stick in this partnership. He tends to be the one who pushes me and all I do is complain. However, despite my loud and unnecessary complaining, we have been successful in working out and trying to eat more healthily. Go Team!

So, today I have started the Self Challenge. Hopefully its plan will fuel my desire to see that my goals are in reach and actually get there.

This Made Me Laugh….

2009-02-10T18:42:00.000-08:00

But then I was sad, because seriously, why can’t I think of something like this to sell for $7?

I saw this on the Self.com blog Healthy Bites. I would recommend checking out the blogs they have. I really enjoy this one and Eat Like Me.

Today's lesson: how to outwit that healthy lunch looter (every office has one! Ahem, Sheila...). Teach him or her a thing or two by packing your sandwich in these anti-theft lunch bags.

The green splotches, printed on the outside of each baggie, make it seem as if your sammy has spoiled, so you'll never experience a fridge heist again! They're on sale right now - $7 for 25 baggies - here. Now if only they made these for yogurt cups...

Happy Birthday Everyone!

2009-02-06T19:36:00.000-08:00

Originally I had wanted to have a post for everyone’s birthday, just to celebrate them. Unfortunately I believe that was a bit too zealous of an effort on my part. Life happens and so does work, so sometimes the blog is the furthest thing on the list of things to do. So, hopefully a big HAPPY BIRTHDAY and a little wish for everyone are acceptable in one post.

DAD – January 18th

We hope you had a fantabulous day and that it was very relaxing.
Our wish for you is that you have plenty of time to play and conquer CIV IV.
We love you!

Danielle – January 26th

We hope you enjoyed your time off from work and your new carpet in your house ;)
We wish you many extra hours of sleep and time off from work. Paid, of course!
We love and miss you!

Conner – February 3rd

You are such a big kid! You have grown up so fast in a flash! We hope you enjoyed your day with you mom, dad, and Alex.
Enjoy your birthday party and eat lots of cake!
We love you and miss you lots!

Robbie – February 5th

We hope your day was superb and that all of your wishes come true!
Of course, you are already a famous male model, living in Miami, so there can’t be too much more to wish for ;)
We love you and miss you!

Alex - February 6th

Poor Alex has been sick and will probably continue to be so on his birthday.
We hope you get better very soon, so that you can enjoy your Star Wars cake and your party!
We love you and miss you!

Jamie - February 9th

Jammers! We hope you have a magnificent day and that you get all you wish for!
We would wish you lots of shopping, but we think you have that skill down pat, even when it isn’t your birthday!
We miss and love you!

Pics Galore

2009-01-28T19:45:00.000-08:00

Well - not really, it's more like life described via art. :)

Me forcing Russell to take another picture

Outside our bedroom window on a Monday morning.

Enough snow that I hated driving in it, but not enough to stay home.

Diane and my 3 am favorite pastime that was brought back.
Thanks to Chelle for finding it :)

Russell's Amish Friendship bread that I had to finish, since he had to go to Young Men's. I also unfortunately read the indgridents wrong and added a bit too much milk. They seemed to bake fine, we will see how it tastes. Also note, it called for two bunt pans, we only own one and it called for 1/2 cup milk and for some reason I read the above ingredients at that particular moment and poured in 1 1/2 cups of milk. Calcium, does a body good. Right?

Solution to Overspending!

2009-01-27T20:22:00.000-08:00

No, no. Not a solution to my overspending. One would must first posess money in order to actually spend it. ;) I was referring to….

Politics. An interesting subject that causes many individuals to spew mean and hateful words, act untoward to others, defame others property, and make degrading and sometime false accusations about others. All because we don’t see eye to eye on things. I for one think so many of our issues would be solved if our leaders would step back and realize that it isn’t about always being right and having things their way. It can actually be a happy medium between everyone’s way. I would say most of the time things aren’t solved because everyone is too prideful. I admit that it can be a hard thing to over come, but not if you are honest with yourself.

I have to say though, that I believe I can help solve part of the problems that troubles our government leaders when deciding – “how to spend more money wisely”. It’s called Project Management. Now, work with me here. I mean seriously, it can be applied to every type of program or new “amazing idea” that is brought to the table. So many times ideas are just thrown out for “a new stimulus package” or “universal healthcare” with out any sort of “we tested this and this is how it’s going to be overseen”. There is no step by step process. No checks and balances. I mean look at the last bailout.

To date, I am pretty sure that one of the biggest problems with Medicare is the amount of fraud that is taking place. But no one tries to implement a process to watch the spending/fraud and see how that turns out. Think how much money would be saved if programs were actually managed and problems were addressed and not just “swept under the rug” by spending more money. Private companies, that want to be successful of course, do this. And guess what? If it doesn’t work, they typically stop and reassess things to avoid loosing more money and try to think of a better way to do things, or just stop the process all together when and if they realize it isn’t a good business plan.

But I’ll digress; I just wanted to throw out my idea of Project Management for our own government, because I’m pretty sure that they would find that it actually works. They should attend a class, or actually hire a few Project Mangers, that do their job, of course. ;) What really made be start thinking about all of this was when I was reading various politically going on’s and came across a topic about the Treasury Secretary nomination of Tim Geithner. Now, I’m definitely not one to decide whether he actually made an honest mistake in paying his own taxes, however someone posted a comment in response to that and it made me laugh:

“and his (Obama’s) pick for Finance: Can we not find an honest man in the U.S? The first step in continuing a corrupt Washington is saying that tax mistakes (?) and other digressions are “no big deal.” I’ve used TurboTax; they warn you if you miss something. You have to override the error to get it to finish. It is not something you can miss.”

I’ll just leave this with everyone to be safe this taxing season, use Turbo tax, or get someone who knows what they are doing to do your taxes. But it’s not like you are going to be the next Treasury Secretary, so no worries ;)

Naive Floridian

2009-01-21T15:11:00.000-08:00

Being the naïve Florida girl that I am, I was expecting winter in Colorado to look something like this:

Or something a little less piled up…but snow nonetheless.

Instead this is how it’s been.

This is obviously not common. I have heard repeatedly how this is a very unusually warm winter. But we are supposed to have snow showers starting Friday and maybe Sunday too.

See Michelle. It will be cold here. But right now it appears that the universe is in disarray and that wherever I go I cause cosmic/nature forces to be spun out of control and act totally out of character. Ahhh…to have power. ;)

Miscellaneous Weekend and Cheese Trivia?

2009-01-20T16:35:00.000-08:00

Trivia of the day:

What animal’s call does not echo?

A duck’s quack.

Fun little trivia that I probably would have to say I personally would have never thought to ask myself. But thanks to my Stringsters trivia, I have something new to learn every time I eat a string cheese stick. Good times.

This past weekend was a long weekend for me. Yea bank holidays! Unfortunately they always go by much too quickly and then what is suppose to be a short work week, almost feels twice as long. But I shouldn’t complain. I got to sleep in a little bit longer and I didn’t have to get up and get ready to be anywhere, so it was great.

So our weekend was pretty relaxing and we didn’t have any major plans. The dollar theatre finally has a couple of decent movies that we wanted to see, so Russell and I went and saw Four Christmases on Friday. Overall I would say it was okay, but it’s definitely not my most favorite Reese Witherspoon movie, and I don’t know, it wasn’t quite what I was expecting. Next is James Bond, which I am guessing I will like much more. Saturday we pretty much spent cleaning, doing a little grocery shopping, going out to dinner to Grand Lux café and going to Best Buy. The latter two were many thanks to wonderful gift cards we had for both. The Grand Lux café’ is a sister restaurant of the Cheesecake factory and it pretty much has the same feel and portions. I didn’t take a picture of Russell’s but I got a potpie and pretty much had enough for a few meals. As for Best Buy, Russell got Colonization; we got Monopoly for the Wii, and also Mahjong Tiles. Fun times.

On Sundays, our church meeting times have been moved to the afternoon, unfortunately for me. I much prefer morning church, but I suppose I don’t have much of a say in the matter. So Russell had a meeting in the morning, then we went to church, came home, made some dinner and watched some pre-recorded television that we are not always able to watch during the week.

"Hottie Patotie Russell"

Also earlier in the week, I had run out of my foundation and on a separate occasion my base eye shadow and concealer. Now Russell has no idea why it’s necessary to have concealer and foundation, or a foundation base for your eye shadow or lots of different makeup for that matter. He once asked me, “So, did someone just tell you that you had to put that on, so you would buy it?” He thinks it’s a conspiracy, but I tell him how much it benefits my scary morning face and even helps some guys, but he won’t let me try it on him ;) I digress though ….I had run out and never got around to going to the mall and getting more. When I got home and later looked at my makeup bag, it overflowith with new makeup. He had taken the empty bottles to the Mac counter and got new ones for me. So sweet. Just had to let you all know that’s one of the many ways Russell is so good to me. I lerve him!

Some of my awesome makeup loot!

The Difference is only in the Details

2009-01-13T19:50:00.000-08:00

I like to reminisce….or more like, I tend to reminisce. I don’t have any particular disdain or love of reminiscing; it’s more like it just happens. I feel that personally I have been doing this more often. Reflecting on things, people, or events that have taken place in my life. Some things that I wished to have handled differently, some great times that I had with my friends and family. It’s quite possible I do this since so many of these people I have shared these moments and memories with are so far away, but I also like to think of it as my own personal reminder to “find joy in the journey”. My journey.

A wonderful talk given by President Monson in the October General conference reminds us exactly why we need to find our joy and take advantage of what we have today. You can find the complete talk here: http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-947-26,00.html

“Stresses in our lives come regardless of our circumstances. We must deal with them the best we can. But we should not let them get in the way of what is most important—and what is most important almost always involves the people around us. Often we assume that they must know how much we love them. But we should never assume; we should let them know. Wrote William Shakespeare, “They do not love that do not show their love.” We will never regret the kind words spoken or the affection shown. Rather, our regrets will come if such things are omitted from our relationships with those who mean the most to us.

“Send that note to the friend you’ve been neglecting; give your child a hug; give your parents a hug; say “I love you” more; always express your thanks. Never let a problem to be solved become more important than a person to be loved. Friends move away, children grow up, loved ones pass on. It’s so easy to take others for granted, until that day when they’re gone from our lives and we are left with feelings of “what if” and “if only.” Said author Harriet Beecher Stowe, “The bitterest tears shed over graves are for words left unsaid and deeds left undone.”

I also know from personal experience that when we stop stressing over the things in our life that we can’t control, then we are able to clearly see the big picture and recognize all that we have been given, in spite of those challenging moments. I am so thankful for all of you, my family and friends who are the “Details” of my life.

Happy 29th Birthday Grandpa

2009-01-12T16:45:00.000-08:00

I wanted to give a “shout out” to my Grandpa on his 92nd Birthday…or as he would say 29th. For pretty much as long as I can remember he has always inverted the numbers, because it makes him younger, of course. So, when I called him up yesterday I wished him a Happy 29th. My grandpa is pretty much amazing. He has lived a long happy life and as he says, “After the first 100 years, its smooth sailing”.

Here are some of the wonderful things I have learned/love about my grandpa:

He is respectful, caring and loving to my grandmother – He’s an amazing example of how you should treat your significant other
He has always been there for my sisters and I and my family
He knows the value and importance of hard work (He worked sometimes up to three jobs, so that my grandmother could stay at home with the children)
He has great genes (Too bad I didn’t get some of the height)
He’s bilingual
He has some amazing war experiences of which, I couldn’t even imagine having to deal with
He likes to cook breakfast for us when we visit…and I’m talking eggs, bacon, toast, you name it…he’ll make it. He wants to make sure you start the day out right
He likes to shop for deals (especially with coupons)
But he likes shopping for cars even more….
He loves spending time with family
He knows everyone in their neighborhood and beyond….he will collect their aluminum cans and take them to recycle. Any money he makes he puts into a savings for his grandkids and great grandchildren.
He’s the best grandpa anyone could ask for

Love you grandpa! Here’s to many more! :)

Yogurt

2009-01-07T18:23:00.000-08:00

A report from Tufts University indicates that the potential health attributes associated with eating yogurt stretch beyond protein and calcium. According to an article by Simin Nikbin Meydani, Ph.D. in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 2000; 71:861-72), yogurt may help make the immune system more resilient. Given the right circumstances, eating yogurt may help protect the intestinal tract. As a result, yogurt has great potential as a protective, anti-infection agent. Preliminary research indicates that increased yogurt consumption might help increase one's resistance to immune-related diseases such as cancer and infection, particularly gastrointestinal infection. This is believed to be in part due to the live and active cultures (LAC) found in yogurt.

That paragraph from the aboutyogurt.com website, you would think, in and of itself would be convincing enough to entice one to incorporate eating yogurt into their daily if not weekly food consumption. Not so much for me. I want to like yogurt, really I do. And some of the flavors are even somewhat bearable….but not enough.

During our weekend excursion to procure some much needed groceries for our home, we saw that yogurt was on sale. (I figured this was to entice those who are on a first of the year health kick to buy some.) So, we bought some. Russell chose his and I chose mine. I really thought I picked some that I would like, for certain. Unfortunately my taste buds refuse to allow me to like yogurt. I ate one at breakfast the other morning and I thought it was just that one flavor that repulsed me. So today for an afternoon snack, I took one to work. Boston Crème Pie was the supposed flavor. Blech! They all taste the same. Initially it starts out all tasty and yummy and then about half way through the cup, I just feel sick from eating it.

I think it has to be the aspartimine in the yogurt that makes it impossible for the yogurt and I to be true friends. I mean really, is it just me? I thought for sure this would be at least one way to get milk into my body, since I probably severely lack it elsewhere in my diet…but that seems too ominous a task for my taste buds and I. Russell was right, once again, as he said in the grocery store…”I think I’m the only one who eats it.”

Happy New Year!

2009-01-04T09:19:00.000-08:00

"Should auld acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind? Should auld acquaintance be forgot and days of auld lang syne? For auld lang syne, my dear, for auld lang syne, we'll take a cup of kindness yet, for auld lang syne."

"Let this coming year be better than all the others. Vow to do some of the things you've always wanted to do but couldn't find the time. ... Call up a forgotten friend. Drop an old grudge, and replace it with some pleasant memories. ... Vow not to make a promise you don't think you can keep. ... Walk tall, and smile more. You'll look 10 years younger. Don't be afraid to say, "I love you". Say it again. They are the sweetest words in the world."

Happy New Year Everyone!

Catch Up Post...and Ramblings

2008-10-07T18:54:00.000-07:00

So, we've been pretty busy here.
Russell and I celebrated our one year anniversary.
We were called as ordinance workers at the temple, so that has been great too.
Russell was also called to work with the Priests in church.
We also got to go to conference this weekend...it was great! Except for our flight home, which was delayed by like almost five hours due first to weather, then because the plane that finally came hit a bird and it broke the equipment on the plane. So, instead of getting home at 9 we got home at 2am. Fun!
Oh and on a totally unrelated topic...I'm so over politics. So much so, I think I am going to run for senate. I mean, if we want to make a difference, we have to get involved, right?
It will take a lot of hard work, but I think I can do it.
Then...it's on to the White House. ;)
As always, here are some pics from the past month or so.

Dinner on our Anniversary
Jennie, Audrey, and Russell
She was hesitant about him getting so close....
Kara, Me, and Karli...we were so happy she happened to be in town too!

Russ and I at the temple..

One Year!

2008-09-13T13:27:00.000-07:00

Monday, Russell and I will be married for one year.
I can't belive it!
It's gone by so quickly...but a good kind of quick.
I'm so lucky to have such a great husband and that we get to spend eternity together.
I lerve you hunny! Mwah!

Melancholy

2008-09-09T18:50:00.000-07:00

Things have been going great for us in Colorado.
The only problem is, I still miss everyone that is so far away.
Russ and I visited Florida over the Labor day weekend and I got to see all of my sisters, nieces and nephews, grandparents, my parents, and good friends.
It was nice to be around everyone.

So on days like today, where the weather is perfect, and the wind is just so...I tend to think how great it would be to have everyone around.
It makes me that much more grateful for the times when we have the chance to be together.

Summer in DC

2008-08-23T15:28:00.000-07:00

Russell and I just got back from a week in Washington DC.
We had a lot of fun and were glad to get away from work, if just for a little while.
We did much walking and site seeing and had fun visiting with his family.
Here are some pics from our trip. Enjoy!

My Everything

2008-07-26T17:34:00.000-07:00

I was going through some of our pics and found the ones from the Michael Buble' concert.

I wanted to post something about it along time ago, but we were moving, and it just wasn't a priority...imagine that.

I wanted to have more complete clips of him singing, but my camera battery was dying, so I had to save the juice for my favorite songs...."Everything".

But it was an amazing night with good friends and great entertainment. Russell and I agree that we will go again if we have the opportunity and the money, of course.

Below is a clip from the concert and some pics from our night.

Rain

2008-07-23T21:11:00.001-07:00

Everyday, especially at work, I am taunted by clouds such as these above.
Lovely, Luminous, Scary, Ominous, Threatening looking clouds.
However, they never deliver, EVER! That is, until today.
I have a wonderful view from my desk of the mountains and on a clear day, the temple.
And almost everyday the clouds roll in and roll by, without a drop of rain.

I am beginning to be disappointed with the weather here in Colorado.
It's been really warm (I say warm, because I am from Florida after all) and I have yet to experience a dependable rain storm.
Today I sort of got my wish in the form of dark clouds and actual liquid that fell from the sky for a time that was longer than 60 seconds.
I don't want to push my luck, but maybe tomorrow I will get thunder too....

Gone...but for good reasons.

2008-07-17T19:02:00.000-07:00

"In God’s eternal plan, salvation is an individual matter; exaltation is a family matter." - Russell M. Nelson

While much has gone on in terms of life events, birthdays past and upcoming...I just wanted to pay tribute to what's most important to me. Families. Mine in particular, but I am sure you probably feel the same about your own family.
We have had a great past week with Russell's parents and sister visiting and in a couple of weeks we will get to visit with my parents and sister(s)/neice, then off to Florida to see all of my family. While we love to have them here...we hate to see them leave. It's unfortunante that life isn't just full of weekly family visits and less work.

FAMILIES ARE AMAZING BECAUSE:

They love you unconditionally
They know exactly what you need and when you need it, even if you are thousands of miles away without having to say a single word
You can never stay upset with them, because it just feels wrong
Someone will always love you, no matter what
They get your quirky ways and still like you
They are FOREVER (this is my favorite)

I'm so grateful for all of my family. They fill the cracks and crevaces of my every day life and make it worth so much more than it could be if they weren't in it. I am posting the second half of Elder Russell M. Neslons article, from the May 2008 Ensign....it's great.

Family Responsibilities
Individual progression is fostered in the family, which is “central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children.” The home is to be God’s laboratory of love and service. There a husband is to love his wife, a wife is to love her husband, and parents and children are to love one another.
Throughout the world, the family is increasingly under attack. If families fail, many of our political, economic, and social systems will also fail. And if families fail, their glorious eternal potential cannot be realized.
Our Heavenly Father wants husbands and wives to be faithful to each other and to esteem and treat their children as an heritage from the Lord. In such a family we study the scriptures and pray together. And we fix our focus on the temple. There we receive the highest blessings that God has in store for His faithful children.
Thanks to God’s great plan of happiness, families can be together forever—as exalted beings. Our Heavenly Father declared, “This is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.” Both of His objectives were enabled by the Atonement of His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ. His Atonement made resurrection a reality and eternal life a possibility for all who would ever live.
Resurrection, or immortality, comes to every man and every woman as an unconditional gift.
Eternal life, or celestial glory or exaltation, is a conditional gift. Conditions of this gift have been established by the Lord, who said, “If you keep my commandments and endure to the end you shall have eternal life, which gift is the greatest of all the gifts of God.” Those qualifying conditions include faith in the Lord, repentance, baptism, receiving the Holy Ghost, and remaining faithful to the ordinances and covenants of the temple.
No man in this Church can obtain the highest degree of celestial glory without a worthy woman who is sealed to him. This temple ordinance enables eventual exaltation for both of them.
In Church callings we are subject to release. But we cannot be released as parents. From the first days of human history, the Lord has commanded parents to teach the gospel to their children. Moses wrote, “Thou shalt teach … diligently … thy children, and shalt talk of [God’s words] when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.”
In our day the Lord has added, “Bring up your children in light and truth.” The Church is to assist and not to replace parents in their responsibilities to teach their children.
In this day of rampant immorality and addictive pornography, parents have a sacred responsibility to teach their children the importance of God in their lives. Those evils, so highly destructive of divine potential, are to be strictly shunned by children of God.
We are also to teach our children to honor their parents. The fifth commandment states, “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.”
How can we best teach our children? The Lord has given us specific instruction:
“No power or influence can or ought to be maintained by virtue of the priesthood, only by persuasion, by long-suffering, by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned;
“By kindness, and pure knowledge, which shall greatly enlarge the soul without hypocrisy, and without guile—
“Reproving betimes with sharpness, when moved upon by the Holy Ghost; and then showing forth afterwards an increase of love toward him whom thou hast reproved, lest he esteem thee to be his enemy.”
When a child needs correction, you might ask yourself, “What can I say or do that would persuade him or her to choose a better way?” When giving necessary correction, do it quietly, privately, lovingly, and not publicly. If a rebuke is required, show an increase of love promptly so that seeds of resentment may not remain. To be persuasive, your love must be sincere and your teachings based on divine doctrine and correct principles.
Do not try to control your children. Instead, listen to them, help them to learn the gospel, inspire them, and lead them toward eternal life. You are God’s agents in the care of children He has entrusted to you. Let His divine influence remain in your hearts as you teach and persuade.

Happenings

2008-06-14T08:51:00.000-07:00

This last week has been quite busy, which is great, because I don't like having too much time to sit around and miss everyone. So, what have we been up to?

Dancing - So, Russell and I thought it would be fun to take dance classes together. There is an Arthur Murray's Dance Studio literally like one minute down the street from us. They had a special for five classes, so we took it. It was fun, Russell was hooked, so we typically go at least twice a week. I would have to say that Russell is much better at it then I am, however I am getting there.
Dating Panel at Mutual - This was fun. The Young Women's president asked Russell and I and another couple to be on a "panel" to answer questions the youth had about dating behavior and our experiences, etc. It was fun and it took much longer than they anticipated, but the kids seemed to like it. Afterwards the other couple came up to Russell and said that he was going to be the next Young Men's president when they need one, because of how he spoke/related to the kids. So funny...Russell laughed uncomfortably.
Church Luau - It was really amazing. The entire stake participated by making the food. The set up was great too..Russell and I commented that someone(s) spent their entire day setting everything up. There were great dancers/performers...and we met a really great, funny couple. (And he happens to a chiropractor, a little late after finding one, but maybe Russ and I will switch over to him) We just got a chiropractor and he's been really great.
McKenzie's First Birthday Party - Heather has graciously allowed me to adopt them as my family since we have moved out here. Heather is a great friend and I am so glad that we ended up moving so close to them. We got to go to their home for Kenzie's first birthday and celebrate with their family and friends. Let me tell you, she never had cake and I think she's hooked. She kept eating it and smiling every time she took a bite. She's so cute...we had a great time. :)

Larimer's Square - Downtown Denver. I'm sure they have had it in past years, but they block off this section of downtown and these amazingly talented artists complete their sidewalk chalk drawings throughout the event. It rained over the weekend and while we were there and it was almost over, this one artist was staying until she finished drawing her piece again. Talk about dedication. I wish I were that artistic. Here are just a few of the pictures we took:
Narnia - Okay, now don't get me wrong, I like movies, I just don' think I was exactly waiting in line to see either the first or second of these movies. In fact, I didn't see the first one until I watched it with Russell and Jamie Marie. (Russell made us watch it!) I really liked the second one better, but would say both of them are great. I would suggest going and see it if you haven't, although I'm sure most of the country has seen it before I did.
Sushi and the Parker Fair - Okay so I haven't had any sushi since my farewell work lunch at the beloved Amura's. (I really miss Amura...) So last night I told Russell that I really wanted Japanese for our Friday night dinner out. Due to our limited knowledge of great eating establishments we weren't sure where to go and get some...sushi that is. Conveniently we had a flyer for The Golden Phoenix. When we got there I thought..."It will either be really amazing, or not good at all". I'm glad to report was it not only amazing, but very affordable with plenty of food left over for another meal. We will definitely go back...when it's time for sushi again. :) After dinner we met up with Heather, Paul, Tyler, Kinzie, Meghan, and Maritza at the Parker Fair. They had been there awhile and had been on many rides. It was so humongous. I am use to the fairs in Florida parking lots, but this was ginormous. Russ and I didn't go on any rides...way too expensive and we weren't going to be there long enough to justify buying tickets at $1 a piece for a ride that lasted 40 seconds, but we had fun hanging out with everyone. I realized that I don't have any pictures with Tyler or Paul, I will have to get some from Heather. I like the last one, because it has Russell's leg...Kenize just loved trying to pull out Russell's janitor keys.

So, today we need to go shopping for groceries and get Russell's brakes on his car fixed...but other than that, nothing big planned for this weekend. All of my family is together in Tallahassee except for me...I miss you all and hope you have a great Birthday/Father's Day weekends. Love you all!

The Weekend!

2008-05-30T21:01:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy it's Friday...it's almost my favorite day of the week.But the only bad thing about it is that it's Monday again, very soon.Some of the things our weekend has or will consist of....

Tonight the Elder's Quorom had a bar-b-q and we met a lot of nice people.

Tomorrow we have one for Primary, since now I get to teach the CTR 6 class. :)

Church.

And everything else that falls in between.

There are lots of cool things I want to try, but by the end of the week I am so tired!

Last week I made some Andes mint chocolate chip cookies for work...I had to...Maritza and Heather threatend me if I didn't.

They looked pretty and tasted really good too..so soft. Good thing I gave the majority of them away. But I like to think it was good presentation skills, whadda ya think?

Also, we thought we had one cool little rabitt as a "community" pet, but it appears they are like squirrels in Flordia...too many to count. But we did catch a little, little one....he's a cutie. But not as cute as the guy in the picture with me. ;) Anyhow, maybe as the weekend progresses I will have more interesting things to post and won't be as tired. Have a good weekend!

Viva Culture

2008-05-23T22:26:00.000-07:00

Russell "scared" of T-Rex Believe me, if he were real, I certianly wouldn't be looking so "shocked".

It's fun to live in a new town, let alone a state. We have something new to try and visit each weekend and we are having fun trying to live up to that.

For the past two weekends, Russell and I have gone to the Denver Museum of Science and Nature (hopefully that's it's correct name) and last week we went with Heather and her family to the Denver Zoo.

They are both amazing places to visit and we know that the annual passes that we bought for both will be well worth it.

I don't know we will be as adventurous (i.e. so willing to spend more money this weekend) so we may stick to one of the many outdoorsy options that have little to no fee...the tons of parks, trails, and mountains that we have yet to meet and Russell keeps promising me we will go camping, but it hasn't happend yet. I think he's a little scared to do it. ;)

As soon as that happens I'll post some lovely pictures when I capture the occasion, until then, here are some pics from the past couple of weeks.

Peace...

Heather and McKinsey in her favorite part of the zoo...the tropical rain forest.

Our cool new friend, Sleepy.

Heather and I with two hot male models...I mean chillin with the seals.

Cute Kids!

2008-05-07T19:54:00.000-07:00

My neices are pretty awesome. (And cute too!)
We were taking a walk not too long ago and they stopped to show me this.
Thanks to the movie Alvin and the Chipmunks (the updated version, of course), we have this lovely video below.
I love you girls. :)

Colorado

2008-05-01T20:47:00.000-07:00

Colorado = my new home.
I haven't had the chance to really get to know her, but I will.
I look forward to the plesant summers with less humidity.
And the opportuity to learn all the winter sports that one from Florida would miss...And don't forget the chance to learn to drive in the snowy mess!
But I will always be a Florida girl at heart.

Ode to Weekends

2008-02-23T13:10:00.000-08:00

Okay, this isn't so much of an ode as a straight up "word", to the blissful weekend.
Things I love about Friday, Saturday and Sunday....

Not waking up early for seminary
Not going to work
Not going to work (oh wait, I said that already..but I do like my job)
Spending time with Russell
Hanging out with friends and family
Taking naps of Sunday after church if I need to
Enjoying time to do things I normally can't during the week

Yesterday I had the change to spend time with the family, make some really yummy brownies, and catch up and spend time with my best friend Amy.
Tonight we are going to the Michael Buble' concert, so I am really excited.
Too bad everyday isn't a weekend day.
I'm posting a few pictures from our recent weekend excursions below...hopefully more to come from this weekend.

Pure Hottness!

2008-01-25T14:17:00.000-08:00

I lerve Russell.

He is the best everything.

He is so thoughtful.

He brings me yellow rose's on rainy days, just because.

He puts up with me when I am annoying.

He helps everyone without thinking.

And to top it off, he's the hottest ever.

I'm so lerky!

To Our Health

2008-01-22T17:58:00.000-08:00

Two weeks ago...the stomach flu.

A week later for Russell, a bad case of bronchitis...add to that my bad cold/sore throat and sniffles.

Two continuous weeks of not knowing what was wrong with Ashley.

Today Russell and I are both healthy and Saturday the smartest doctor Ashley ever met, properly diagnosed her with diabetes. It isn't really fair for a two year old to go to all that trouble to be told she can't have cake. :)

But I am so grateful we are all healthy and for our wonderful bodies that will take a licking, but always keep ticking.

Here's to no illness for at least a little while. One can hope.

Yeah for Me!

2008-01-17T19:58:00.000-08:00

I just started my own blog.
It didn't take me long.
Now I must go along.

Cheers!