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Sunday, November 30, 2008

Blessed

Well, it's the last day of the month and I just wanted to squeeze in one last gratitude post.
I have a few things on my mind right now that I'm so grateful for.
We've been a little sick this week with the cold. So today, I left the boys home with Jon while I went to church--no fun for Jon, but great for me. I am so grateful to be able to attend my meetings again. Not being able to attend for almost the last two months was the pits. I love to be embraced by the spirit there, and without the boys today, I was really able to tune in to the lessons and partake of the spirit.
Many of the lessons today were on the subject of gratitude (go figure). Funny, that it's been on my mind even more than usual with it being Thanksgiving. I've been reading a book called Redemption Road by Tony Sorenson Brown.

It's set in Africa, and is about a woman finding her way back to the gospel. It's a beautiful story. What has really touched me though, is the background. The story of the people of Africa. I know it's a novel, and is fictional, but I know that what is written about this continent and it's people is true. I am astounded sometimes by how much I take for granted. Not having to boil my water for ten minutes before I drink it. Not having to worry about being bitten by a mosquito because it could be a death sentence. Instead, I gripe about small discomforts that would be warmly welcomed by these beautiful people. Oh, I only got two meals today-instead of my usual three? Darn! For many in Africa, one slice of bread a day is a feast.
I see those commercials on tv for the suffering children of Africa, and it breaks my heart. But do I ever do anything?
It's going to be a small Christmas in our house this year, and I'm glad. I'm sorry not to be able to give my kids' their every desire, but what we do have is infinitely more than so many people in our world.
I truly am so grateful for every little oddball blessing that I take for granted. I have SO MUCH. I pray I can learn to give more of myself to the world around me.

Saturday, November 29, 2008

Something to chew on

As we embark upon this crazy, hectic and insane time of year; here's a little something to ponder.


(whoo hoo!! my first you tube imbedded in my blog!! Go mikki!! j/k)




Today's funny email

haha...some of these i never heard of...but they are still funny...





I just want to thank all of you for your educational emails over the past year.

Thanks to you, I no longer open a public bathroom door without using a paper towel.

I can't use the remote in a hotel room because I don't know what the last person was doing while flipping through the channels.
I can't sit down on the hotel bedspread because I can only imagine what has happened on it since it was last washed.

I can't enjoy lemon slices in my tea or on my seafood anymore because lemon peels have been found to contain all kinds of nasty germs including feces.

I have trouble shaking hands with someone who has been driving because the number one pastime while driving alone is picking your nose.

Eating a Little Debbie sends me on a guilt trip because I can only imagine how many gallons of Trans fats I have consumed over the years.

I can't touch any woman's purse for fear she has placed it on the floor of a public bathroom.

I must send my special thanks to whoever sent me the one about poop in the glue on envelopes because I now have to use a wet sponge with every envelope that needs sealing.

Also, now I have to scrub the top of every can I open for the same reason.

I no longer have any savings because I gave it to a sick girl (Penny Brown) who is about to die in the hospital for the 1,387,258th time.
I no longer have any money at all, but that will change once I receive the $15,000 that Bill Gates/Microsoft and AOL are sending me for participating in their special e-mail program

I no longer worry about my soul because I have 363,214 angels looking out for me, and St.Theresa's novena has granted my every wish.
I no longer eat KFC because their chickens are actually horrible mutant freaks with no eyes or feathers.

I no longer use cancer-causing deodorants even though I smell like a water buffalo on a hot day.

Thanks to you, I have learned that my prayers only get answered if I forward an e-mail to seven of my friends and make a wish within five minutes.

Because of your concern I no longer drink Coca Cola because it can remove toilet stains.

I no longer can buy gasoline without taking someone along to watch the car so a serial killer won't crawl in my back seat when I'm pumping gas.

I no longer drink Pepsi or Dr Pepper since the people who make these products are atheists who refuse to put 'Under God' on their cans.

I no longer use Saran wrap in the microwave because it causes cancer.
And thanks for letting me know I can't boil a cup of water in the microwave anymore because it will blow up in my face...disfiguring me for life.
I no longer check the coin return on pay phones because I could be pricked with a needle infected with AIDS.

I no longer go to shopping malls because someone will drug me with a perfume sample and rob me.
I no longer receive packages from UPS or FedEx since they are actually Al Qaeda in disguise.
I no longer shop at Target since they are French and don't support our American troops or the Salvation Army.
I no longer answer the phone because someone will ask me to dial a number for or which I will get a phone bill with calls to Jamaica , Uganda , Singapore and Uzbekistan .

I no longer buy expensive cookies from Neiman-Marcus since I now have their recipe.

Thanks to you, I can't use anyone's toilet but mine because a big brown African spider is lurking under the seat to cause me instant death when it bites my butt.

And thanks to your great advice, I can't ever pick up $5.00 dropped in the parking lot because it probably was placed there by a rapist waiting underneath my car to grab my leg.

If you don't send this e-mail to at least 144,000 people in the next 10 minutes, a large dove with diarrhea will land on your head at 5:00 PM this afternoon and the fleas from 12 camels will infest your back, causing you to grow a hairy hump. I know this will occur because it actually happened to a friend of my next door neighbor's ex-mother-in-law's second husband's cousin's beautician...

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

So thankful for....

Shimmy Mom recently posted a list of 100 things she is thankful for.
I think it's a wonderful exercise in gratitude. So in honor of Thanksgiving, I'm going to give it a shot. Here goes:
(in no particular order--well, except maybe the first one, or few)

  1. A loving Father in Heaven
  2. The Savior
  3. His infinite atonement
  4. the gospel
  5. My husband
  6. My kids
  7. my mom
  8. my dad
  9. my brothers and sister
  10. in n out burgers :p
  11. chocolate
  12. pumpkin pie
  13. cheesecake
  14. food, in general
  15. warm fuzzy slipper socks
  16. hot, hot baths
  17. hot, hot showers
  18. lotion
  19. pedicures
  20. toddler kisses
  21. back rubs
  22. the wonderful smell before the rain
  23. the wonderful smell after the rain
  24. the fact that it rained here in Vegas all day today
  25. our warm, comfy home
  26. food in my pantry
  27. my hubby's job
  28. the computer
  29. the blogosphere
  30. flowers
  31. toothpaste
  32. the delete key
  33. the backspace key
  34. wonderful friends
  35. a wonderful ward
  36. Christmas time
  37. prayer
  38. Advil
  39. Pepsi
  40. my comfy bed
  41. two bathrooms
  42. unemployment pay
  43. the internet
  44. notebooks
  45. springtime
  46. snow (although I don't get to see it very often)
  47. my grandmas and grandpas (this should have been closer to the top of my list)
  48. Shining examples
  49. education
  50. my sweek kitty cat
  51. my sweet poochies who passed away already
  52. life lessons
  53. helpful friends
  54. a kind neighbor
  55. that the school is right across the street
  56. that church is right behind the school
  57. romance
  58. movies
  59. American Idol
  60. magazines
  61. good books
  62. imagination
  63. fluffy clouds
  64. raindrops on roses
  65. gerbera daisies
  66. tulips
  67. lilacs
  68. the scent of lilacs
  69. a caress
  70. my husbands kisses
  71. my daughters' hugs
  72. my washer and dryer
  73. plumbing
  74. babies' laughter
  75. our car
  76. fresh cut grass
  77. leftover turkey sandwiches
  78. peppermint candy
  79. the smell of fire in a fireplace
  80. Christmas traditions
  81. music
  82. the warmth of the suns rays
  83. starlight
  84. birthday wishes
  85. comfy old shoes
  86. the phone
  87. cameras
  88. make-up
  89. deodorant
  90. relative good health
  91. healthy kids
  92. our prophet (also should be up near the top)
  93. Scriptures (again " ")
  94. comments on my blog
  95. my bishop
  96. the temple
  97. sleep
  98. breath
  99. tissue with the lotion in it
  100. all of you, my blogging buddies

Hope I didn't repeat anything. That's kind of tough.


Hope you all have a beautiful and most blessed Thanksgiving!


Monday, November 24, 2008

insert big sigh of relief

I am so grateful to be done with this past week.
I was wiped out by the end of the day Saturday, my officaial last day of work.
I'm not too happy to be out of a job, but I am Titanic-ed out. I've worked in the gift shop for the Titanic Exhibition here in Vegas for the past three years. Usually it's only in a spot for six months to a year, but I guess Vegas is just a special circumstance. I've been fortunate to have this job, and my boss. She's been very flexible with me. I was the assistant manager up until I went on maternity leave last year, which I had to start early since I was prego with the twins. I wasn't able to work the extra day shift when I went back, so I was demoted to a lead cashier position (although I still performed many of the same jobs I did as an assistant). That was ok with me though. It still paid very well, and I was able to work fewer hours than I would have had to work in any other retail position out there. So, in that instance, I'm a little sad to see this job end. Now I'll have to actually work for my money! LOL

Anyhow, it was a busy week for me. I worked ten days in a row (of course, most of them were only 5 hour shifts), and Friday and Saturday were pretty long days for me.
Saturday evening, after we'd finished up our workshift, the district manager wanted to take us out to dinner to say thanks. It was a lovely dinner. We went to a steakhouse, I had filet mignon. I've only had that one other time in my life. It's so yummy. I'm not a big steak person, but that's the way to go if you're going to eat a steak. So, anyhow, Saturday I worked from about 8:30 in the morning, got off work at 4:30, then had to hang around that end of town until six o'clock to go out to dinner (wish I'd taken a nap in my car). We got to the restaurant at about 6:30 and didn't leave until 8:30!!! Why does it take so long to eat at a higher end restaurant?

I was SO happy to walk into the doors of my humble abode. Which brings me to my true gratitude item today. My home. I'm so thankful for my home. It's definitely nothing fancy, and most days it's dirtier than it is clean. But, its warm and welcoming after a LONG day at work, or even after a week away on vacation.

Sunday, November 23, 2008

Welcome to the Christmas edition of getting to know your friends. Okay, here's what you're supposed to do, and try not to be a SCROOGE!!! Just copy (not forward) this entire email and paste into a new e-mail that you can send. Change all the answers so that they apply to you. Then send this to a whole bunch of people you know, INCLUDING the person that sent it to you......Tis the Season to be NICE!
1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? I love to wrap presents, so wrapping paper
2. Real tree or Artificial? both. We have a huge prelit artificial tree that we usually use, but sometimes I just love to get a real one.

3. When do you put up the tree? thanksgiving weekend
4. When do you take the tree down? Usually the day after New Years.
5. Do you like eggnog? Nope
6. Favorite gift received as a child? Pink and Pretty Barbie
7. Hardest person to buy for? My dad
8. Easiest person to buy for? my kids
9. Do you have a nativity scene? yep, four or five of them
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? mail
11.Worst Christmas gift you ever received? I can't think of one.

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? It's a Wonderful Life

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Usually in December
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Can't remember
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? fudge, divinity, cookies, peanut brittle
16. Lights on the tree? Yes. Usually the multi-colored ones
17. Favorite Christmas song? Mary, did you Know?

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? stay Home
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? Yup 20. Angel on the tree top or a star? star
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? One, on Christmas Eve (usually pajamas) All the rest EARLY Christmas morning.
22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? grumpy shoppers
23. Favorite ornament theme or color? red, green, gold and silver
24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? turkey sandwiches and finger food. (chips and dip, olives, cheese stuffed celery sticks, crackers and cheese log, home-made candy etc. etc. etc.)

25. What do you want for Christmas this year? a new sewing machine and a new digital camera

26. Who is most likely to respond to this? Mom, Aunt Myrtle Rae
27. Who is least likely to respond to this? dont know
If there's no rest
for the wicked,

I must be freaking
EVIL INCARNATE!!!

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Open for business

I've created a blog for my scripture totes, and whatever else I decide to make and sell. I have a whopping 1 item available for purchase right now. I'm hoping that getting it going will be the kick in the pants I need to get busy and produce some inventory. Being out of work soon, will hopefully give me a little extra time too.

So, do me a favor, and go check it out. Let me know if I'm forgetting any important information-either about my product or whatever.
Thanks!
Today, I'm grateful for my talents. I'm not sure some days what they are, but I know they're there and I need to develop them more fully.

Monday, November 17, 2008

Mailing list

Christmas is just around the corner, I can't believe it!!

I would love to send Christmas cards to all my blogging buddies. But, I need your addresses. I promise that I won't sell your information to any marketing companies. Not even if they offer me really good money. I promise, I won't hop a plane and come hunt you down like a psycho stalker dude. I can promise that I'll send you a Chrismas card though, probably a week late (cause that's just how I seem to handle everything lately). What do ya' say?

If you'd like me to add you to my Christmas card list, then shoot me an email.

Today, I am thankful for the job that I have had for the past three years. This is my last week there. The exhibit closes on Thursday, and Friday will be my last day. Then begins a little season of uncertainty as I look for a new job. I really couldn't have asked for an easier job with really good pay, a flexible boss and work schedule. Our Father is good and provides for us though, so I'm not too worried about the future.

Saturday, November 15, 2008

Dude!!!

Dude!! These quilts are gorgeous!!! Dana is giving away three different quilts to three different lucky winners.

You've got to go enter this giveaway.
Seriously, if YOU don't want one of these beauties, enter anyway and give it to me. K?








Friday, November 14, 2008

Gentle reminder

My favorite billboard on my way to work.
It used to say "I AM"

A great reminder in the city of sin.

I'm thankful for gentle reminders.

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

blog goals

Ok, I'm just going to wrap up my 200th post meanderings with this post about my blog goals. I know, yawn!! So, just skip over this one if you'd like. I'm trying to get down on (whatever medium you would call this) the things I need to work on. So, here they are:
  • I need to cut back a bit on my blogging. It takes up too much of my time. I'm thinking of cutting back to posting just three or four times a week. Or, maybe I'll still post everyday, because that's really not what's eating up all my time--ti's the reading and commenting. I love reading everyone's blogs though, so I'm not stopping altogether. I think that I might limit myself to 3 days a week on that. Of course, on those three days, I'll probably be on the computer for eight hours just getting caught up!! LOL Obviously, this is going to be a tough one to work out. But, I'm going to figure it out.
  • I need to either get rid of my other blogs, or give them a little more attention. I haven't posted on the Family Home Evening blog much lately. Oh, and my recipe blog? I think it's been months since I posted there. And I do have a bunch of holiday recipes to post. SO, I've got to get busy. This of course means more blogging time, which really messes with my first goal up there.
  • I cannot blog anymore until I have read my scriptures and said my morning prayer first. These two things need to become a priority for me.
  • I need to focus a little more on having a life. And not just blogging about random nonsense.

So, that's all I've come up with so far.

How do you balance blogging with all your other stuff?

A day at the park

The girls were out of school yesterday for Veterans Day, so we walked to the park.




Future palaeontologist?










See those little red cups they're playing with? Justin decided that well, it's a cup, so I guess you drink what's inside. I'm not sure how much sand he gulped down. Thank goodness for the gag reflex--it all came back up.


Ashley thought this goose was trying to impersonate a stork. (standing on one leg)


We saw these cool little puffballs in a tree on the way home.


It was a beautiful day here yesterday. How did you spend the day?

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

We have a winner!

But, first. Here's all those questions you guys asked, and my answers....



Rebecca asked: What is your idea of 'Heaven on Earth' ? (detailed reply)~~Wow, good one Rebecca. I think Heaven on Earth would be me and my family (meaning my kids, hubby and extended family too--mom, dad, brothers, sister and their families), along with cherished pets being together, preferably someplace beautiful like the mountains in a cabin with a roaring fire and lots of good food.











Jenn Lee asked: How did you get started into blogging? How has it most helped you in the past 7 months?What are your top 3 dreams for your blog~~ I got started through my ward. We have a ward blog, which I was just checking out one evening. Seeing all the awesome sisters' in my ward really inspired me on so many levels. They are great moms, and wonderful daughters of God. So, initially I thought it would be a great way to journal my family and our experiences.




How has it helped me? Well, I can tell you it's NOT helping me get my housework done. Can you say Addicted to blogging? But really, I think the biggest way it has helped me is that I feel it's a wonderful support network. I've met some awesome people out there in the blogosphere, and I'm so inspired and encouraged by all of you. I don't feel so alone I guess in my daily struggles. I can see that we all are dealing with some of the same issues, and it's not always a picnic for everyone else. My top three dreams for my blog. Well, above all else, I think it would be great if when all is said and done, I have a nice collection of memories to pass on to my kids. I definitely want to get this printed out one day. Aside from that, I think it would be AWESOME if I could figure out how to make some money doing this, so I could actually stay home 24/7 with my kiddies. And lastly, I guess if it is a fun/uplifting place for others to stop off and visit, then I'd be thrilled.











Krissy asked: Are you in the SLIGHTEST bit ready for Christmas???? ~~ Not in the least!!! I mean, seriously, I'm wondering if we're even going to be able to pull it off this year. I must begin getting ready much earlier next year.





Mother Goose asked: how did papa jon ask you to marry him?~~ Well, at the time we were living in sin in Palm Springs. (I was inactive in the church), and one day he got approved for a Kmart credit card, so unbeknownst to me he bought me an engagement ring. He taped it to the bathroom mirror and wrote the words "Mikki, will you marry me" on the mirror with lipstick, then waited for me to come home from work. Now the funny part is, whenever I got home from work, my first stop was always the bathroom, so he expected a quick response. Well, not that night. I didn't have to go, I guess. So, I was sitting on the couch, unwinding from work and he was like "Don't you have to go to the bathroom?"











Laura asked: Do you have to travel for the holidays to visit family. If so, how far do you travel, and how much fun is it with the twins?~~ Well, my parents live in Palm Springs CA, but they usually come here thank goodness. My sister lives in Tennessee, and we haven't been out there yet. Just can't afford to make a trip. Generally if we do travel it would be just to California. We actually haven't tried it yet since the babies were born. Mainly because we don't have an appropriate vehicle for such a long trip. We'd have to rent a van. Aside from that, I think it might be fun, a little extra planning and prep would definitely be required though.











Shauna asked: Do you love comments on your blog as much as I do?~~ Oh my gosh--YES! (don't you know that's why I'm doing a giveaway? To boost my comments!)











Kristina P. asked: What is your favorite thing about being a mom?~~ You mean I'm supposed to like something? LOL Well, let's see--cleaning up after them all the time--no, no that's definitely not it. The never ending piles of laundry--no, that's not it either. Oh, it must be hearing their laughter as they play together, watching them comfort each other on occasion, their successes, hugs and cuddles---hmmm, I'm having problems picking just one thing.











Lene asked: What blog do you HAVE to read every day?~~Well, all of them, really. I love keeping up with all of you guys. But, if I had to say which one I read first, it'd be Merrianne's blog--I go to hers' first everyday. When she hasn't posted, I'm a little bummed.









Christa asked: Was it difficult adjusting to twins after 2 previous single births? ~~ It was a bit difficult. I was fortunate to have my mother stay with us for almost a whole month. Thank goodness for that. I don't know what I would have done without her. Jon's mom also stayed with us for a bit too. My girls were also really a big help. Their ages were the difference I'm sure-one is ten and the other six. Despite all that, I do distinctly remember the thought frequently that one would be so much easier, and I was such a wimp with my singles way back when. I think it's all relative though.




Mary asked: Will you please rig the drawing so I'll win?~~Sure Mary, I'll be happy to. I'll also rig it for anybody else who asks. :P





Sher asked: What would you consider to be your greatest accomplishment in life, other than having a family?~~Hmmm, that's a tough one. I'm a bit lazy, and don't challenge myself like I should. Often, just go with the flow--that's me. SO, I'm not sure I actually have any accomplishments besides my family. I think, that come January, when I go through the temple--that will be my greatest accomplishment.





Michelle asked: How much has blogging changed your life?~~ Oh my goodness. tons!! One of the first comments I got when I started this blog was how much it would change my life. I was like, yeah, whatever. But seriously. My house has gone to pot. I neglect my kids and especially neglect my hubby. But, I've met some wonderful people. Well, sort of met them I guess. It's given me some time for myself though. I feel like it's a bit of a release, or a reprieve from all my other demands--something I want to do for myself. I do see a need to begin setting some limits on my blogging time. Which is probably going to be a resolution for myself for the next 200 posts.





Nicole asked: what was your first thought when you found out you were having TWINS? and how did you tell your husband (or was he with you at the appt?) ~~ Well, I was sort of concerned when I went in for the ultrasound to begin with. I just had this feeling ya' know? I felt much bigger than I did for my first two pregnancies, and I kept seeing twins everywhere. So I was kind of wondering if Heavenly Father was trying to prepare me for something, and at the same time, I was like-nah' couldn't be! So, when we went for the ultrasound, and yes Jon was with me, that was essentially the first thing Jon said when the tech put that magical wand on my tummy--"Just make sure there's only one in there!" About the exact time he said that, the tech was looking up at us with shock. She goes--"There's two!"~~~So, my first thought really was "I knew it!!", and after that, for the rest of the day I was just dumbfounded, and in total shock.





Jan asked: What made you think healthy foods? Have you always eaten this way? Where do you shop for your items?~~um, me? Healthy foods? NOT!!! But I should, for my kids' sake. Haley is overweight, and I'm a lousy example for her. (not exactly on the slim side myself). I do like Fresh & Easy, and mostly I shop at Smiths. If I could afford it, probably I'd shop at Whole Foods--but it's much too far from me anyway. Anywho, I think you must have confused me for someone else on this one?





Mindi asked: what do you think about the trend to "go private"?~~ Well, I do understand it, but it kind of stinks for people like me who would like to read those private blogs, but I'm too shy and uncertain of myself to invite myself to be a reader. But, to preserve your children's innocence and family's privacy, sometimes, you gotta' do what you gotta do!








Shimmy Mom asked: So why did you start your blog? Do you still like it? Or are you running out of ideas after 200 posts?~~ Well, I started it because it looked like fun and I thought it would be a great way to journal our families life (since I haven't really been keeping a journal like I should). I DO still like it, perhaps a little too much. I do frequently find myself at a loss for what to post about. If I were just journalling my families experiences, it would be no big deal I think; but it's become more of a personal outlet for me to express myself on, and so some days the brain just isn't working.




Kate at Our Red House asked: if you could visit anywhere else in the world, where would you go, and why?~~I have always wanted to visit Ireland. I just think it seems to have some of the most beautiful and lush countryside I've ever seen (in pictures) and I love an Irish accent. I also want to visit Alaska and see the Northern Lights.




Richelle asked: With a busy family, what is a fast, easy recipe that you like to make--one that doesn't take much prep and is made out of things you usually have on hand.~~I think one of my quickest recipes is for these meat pocket things. You take a pound of ground beef, and brown it up. Add some chopped onions, or onion powder. Once it's browned add half a cup of barbecue sauce. Let it simmer for five minutes. In the meantime, take a can of Hungryman biscuits and (open it) smush the biscuits down into and up the sides of muffin cups. Then fill the little cups with the ground beef filling, top it off with some shredded cheese and bake for about 15 minutes at 350*. Add a side salad and presto!!!




Miss Pickle asked: if you could name yourself, what name would you have and why?~~Hmmm, let me think. I've always liked the name Sabrina, or Samantha--so I could be nicknamed Sam--hmmm, Sabrina, Samantha--I'm seeing a witchy sort of trend here. Wonder if that's subconscious?




April asked: Honestly, what's the biggest mistake you've ever made?~~Wow!! Honestly? This one could get me in trouble ya' know. I think the biggest mistake I ever made was moving in with my hubby before we were married. Because of this, I became inactive in the church for ten years. My daughters didn't get blessings when they were first born. We weren't married in the temple, and I'm not sure we ever will be. I didn't pray about our marriage. So, I'm not even sure he's who I was supposed to have married. But, would I do it over again given the opportunity? Yup! I have four awesome, beautiful kids and he really is a terrific hubby. And I do hold out hope that some day we'll be sealed in the temple for time and all eternity (after all, he DID get baptized)--with God, ALL things are possible. ☺☺☺




Imbeingheldhostage asked: If you could pull a person out of your past to spend the day with, who would it be?~~Do I have to limit this to one person? Cause really, there's a few...Several family members who have already passed. I would love to find an old friend--Natalie Judd who I was best friends with in the 5th grade. Her name is now Natalie White. We went to school in Coalville UT (That's up past Park City), I guess it was in '83. I would really love to pull her out of the past and spend a day catching up.




Dolly asked: What's your favorite Donny Osmond song? ~~ok, so I don't really follow Donny's career, so I had to track down some of his tunes, because all I could think of was Puppy Love. So, I listened to "One Dream", and was about to pronounce that my favorite, then I heard "Whenever You're in Trouble"--and that is hands down my favorite. At least of the songs I've heard of Donny's. That's a beautiful song. Talks to me of a parents love for their child. I even added it to my playlist. (You probably just heard it).

Amy J. asked: What 10 things would you be most excited to find in your Christmas stocking?" :) Tricky aren't I.~~You're very sneaky!! LOL Well, let's see...a new digital camera, an ipod, Chanel no. 5, diamond stud earrings, ....oh, you mean for the stocking swap? Dang! OK, I'll try to keep it within reason.... #1. I love chocolate and mint, so anything like Ande's mints, or York peppermint patties. #2. I love those chocolate oranges--yummy! #3. I love peppermint candy--starlight mints, candy canes. #4. I love pretty notebooks. #5. I love thank you cards. #6 I love Christmas decorating magazines, and decorating magazines in general. #6. In-n-Out gift certificates #7. I love bracelets. #8. maybe a cute ornament #9. a Pepsi #10. I'm out of ideas--surprise me! ☺ PS now, if you would kindly leave me a comment with your list of ten or so things you'd be delighted to see in YOUR stocking--that'd be great.




Mrs. Mordecai asked: What's you favorite kind of soup? ~~Well, I do love a good pot of beef stew or chili, but do those really count as soup? Regardless, I think my favorite is cream of Tomato along with a grilled cheese sandwich of course. I have fond memories of making that little combo and settling in to watch "Mary Poppins" or "The Sound of Music" when I was a teenager.




Backandthen asked: Who chose the names of your children and why these names~~Jon chose them. He knew before we were even married that he wanted to name his first daughter Ashley, after a little girl he used to babysit. Haley, I think I suggested--I liked that it has a similar meaning to Ashley's, and he liked it-so that was a done deal. Now Jason and Justin's naming experience is kind of funny, weird--whatever. Here's the deal, My dad is Milton Wayne and I of course, always thought it would be nice to get my dad's name in there somewhere. Jon of course, wanted to name his boys after himself and his brother. So add Jonathon and Bradley into the mix. So, we've got Jonathon, Bradley, Milton and Wayne to work with. So, of course, we thought for a while (and no, not ever seriously) that Jon Wayne (after the actor, or all those psycho guys out there who seem to have those two names for some reason) and Milton Bradley(after the board game company) would be funny. We settled on Justin Jon and Jason Wayne--kind of a compromise. Jon's name, and one of my dad's names. Justin and Jason were both names we agreed upon. Jon suggested them, and they felt right to me. Jon's nickname is actually Jay, so Jason works out as "Jay's son" too. ☺~~That was an awesome question. I don't think I've documented anywhere why we chose our children's names. Thanks G!




Carissa asked: Now my question? You pick. How did we meet? I just told you I can never remember? Or What's your favorite book? I know I know AFTER the scriptures. Or How the heck do you get bias tape on the INSIDE of that circle handle up there? HOW!?Or Do you color your hair? Cuz girl in Utah EVERYONE does.~~OK, 1. how DID we meet? I think I commented on your blog about your spectacular bags, don't remember how I managed to find your blog though. But, I'm glad I did. Maybe you commented on mine first? 2. My favorite book? Gosh, do I have to narrow it down to just one? I love "A Tale of Two Cities", "To Kill a Mockingbird", and "Ivanhoe" I think those are my favorites. 3. The bias tape was a pain in the boo-tay. I don't think I'll try that again. Not sure if I'll even try that bag again!! 4. I have colored my hair. I tried to go red a few years back, and I've spent the last six years trying to get my natural color back. So, I think right now, it's finally all my own natural color of dirty dishwater blonde.

WonderWoman asked: What was your favorite Halloween costume as a child? What's the favorite gift you've ever given someone? What's your favorite meal to make for your family? If you had $100 to spend ONLY on yourself, what would you do with it?~~OK, so my favorite costume was my homemade ballerina costume, complete with tinfoil crown. Favorite gift I've given--hmm I can't even remember what I gave my kids last year. Favorite meal to make is lasagne and garlic bread. Mmmm, unfortunately my oldest daughter isn't crazy about it, but its MY fave. $100 for myself--I'd start out with a pedicure and a manicure and then a new outfit.

Cherrybaby asked: So my question is how did you meet your hubby?~~We met at Kmart where we both worked. Took him a while to ask me out, but when we did finally go out, our first date lasted 11 hours!!!

Jamiebee asked: How has blogging changed your day to day routine as a mother of busy twins?~~hahaha!! It's totally messed it up!! Well, that's probably not too true. I wasn't really getting much done before either. But now, lets see, I sneak in the blogging wherever I can. During their morning nap, I'll read and comment on a few, or post on my own if there's something I want to post about. I'll try to sqeeze a little in while they're eating their breakfast. The rest I do after the kids go to bed in the evenings. Obviously there's not much housework getting done here. I'm going to sit down this week and work out a little routine though. I need to set a couple rules for my own blogging time. I'm letting it get out of hand.

So thanks everyone for all the great questions. That was fun, for me anyway.

SO, now for the winner. I'm so nervous.......I wrote all your entries down on paper, cut them out, folded them up and put them all in a bowl......Haley is drawing a name out of the bowl....it's.....

~~~

~~~




Pyzam Glitter Text Maker
Glitter Graphics Maker & MySpace Layouts

Congrats to Shimmy Mom!!! We also picked a couple of runners' up--so, you know if Shimmy Mom can't get me her address in a reasonable amount of time, say by tomorrow, or the next day, then the responsibilites of being a winner fall to the next person.... those two people are:

Carissa from Good & CrazyPeople

G from Backandthen

I've got a little something for each of you two as well. So, I'll need all three of you to email me your full name and address. Email me at firelein6(at)cox(dot)net

Congrats!!!

Today I'm thankful for all of my blogging buddies. I love you guys!!




Monday, November 10, 2008

Monday morning mayhem

I am so grateful for my home. And my dirty dishes, and my dirty bathrooms, and the mountain of laundry that awaits me every Monday morning. I'm grateful for all the baby toys strewn from one end of the living room to the other. I'm grateful for my cluttered kitchen counters, and the sink full of dirty dishes that has been piling up all weekend long. Without them, whatever would I do with myself?


ps. Today's your last chance to get in on my giveawy. Hurry!!

Sunday, November 9, 2008

this is as political as I get on my blog.☺




Succession at the White House” Cartoon published in NZZ am Sonntag

Saw this on G's blog. Cracked me up!!


Today, I am grateful for the scriptures and the peace that they bring. Especially in these troubled times.




Saturday, November 8, 2008

Oh the places you'll go...part deux

OK, are you ready for some more links?


Here we go....





I can't talk about my blogging community without mentioning the ones that inspired me to begin blogging. Those are the blogs from the women in my ward. There's like twenty of them. I'm not sure if they want to be linked on a post like this. But, they're over there on my sidebar. They have beautiful family blogs, where they chronicle the lives of their sweet families. Journals in the truest sense I think. They don't seem to be coveting the comment love like I do. So, ladies, if you're reading this and feel I've overlooked you I apologize. You guys are the reason I started blogging. I was so inspired and impressed with your beautiful families, and the wonderful examples of motherhood that you are to me. (If you'd like to see your name highlighted in a link on my post, let me know, and I'll be more than happy to oblige!) :o)





So now, more friends I've met in the blogosphere:


Richelle, I met through the Family Home Evening blog that I sometimes contribute to. She has a baby on the way, and makes the cutest little baby booties to sell.


Her sister in law is Leslie, I also met her through the Family Home Evening Blog. (I'm using the term "met" here pretty loosely, in case you haven't noticed). Still getting to know her. I enjoy reading her posts, which are both fun and infromative. She also has a tupperware website, so if you're in need of some new plastics, click the link over there on my sidebar.





The Motherboard is a great writer. I love reading her posts. She's funny, and smart. She's currently doing a great series of posts called Bucket Filler. You really should check them out. Just little ways to help fill your life with good things.


The Mamahood just had a precious little baby girl. She also has four more beautiful little pearls. Love her sweet blog about her family.


Jenn's blog is also about her family. She's another great writer. Her posts make me smile and even cry sometimes. Oh, and check out her cool shop "Handmade from the Heart", the link is also over there on the side. She has some great handmade items available. I'm going to buy some soap from her soon!


Ally is so funny. I love her random Monday musings. She's also writing a book. Hopefully one day I'll get to buy it.

Shimmy Mom blogs about her family too. I love her Weekend Words posts, where she gives you a few lines to a book or song, and you get to guess who/what it's from--just for bragging rights. She's a pretty good photographer too.
I love the name of Lene's blog--Embrace the Chaos . (I just need to learn to embrace the chaos--it rules around my house). She also blogs about family life.

Carissa, I don't remember how I met either. I do remember seeing her purses for the first time. Talk about envy!!! Her bags are FABULOUS!! You really should check them out. Here's her shop. I'm just so jealous of her talent. She's also the brains behind Girls Night Out on Twitter, which is just one more way for me to neglect my familia.

Krissy's a cutie who sews really cute bags too. I think she's hoping to open up a shop one day. SHe just moved into a new house, and is having loads of fun settling in.

Tigger, I mean Trying to Stay Calm, I've just met recently, but am learning to love her. Such a sweetie. She hardly knows me, and already rewarded me with several blog awards.

Last but not least is Jan. I've just recently met her as well, although I'd seen her quite a bit around other peoples comments-so I finally had to go say "hi". So, I'm just getting to know her too, but so far, I like everything about her.

Alright guys, hope I haven't missed anybody. Please forgive me if I have.

(Miss Fickle Pickle?? I wasn't trying to overlook you. But, I was thinking I'd email you before I linked you, because, well I just don't know what to say about you---but I do love you too!!)


Enjoy the rest of your weekend everybody. Oh, and you only have like, two more days to enter my giveaway!




Friday, November 7, 2008

Oh, the places you'll go...

Ok, so settle in for a really long post I think. Today's topic is you guys....some of the wonderful people I've found out there in the great big blogging world.




I think the first strangers blog that I visited was PN's. When I first happened upon her blog, I felt for her. She was going through some struggles at the time. She has come a long way since then--just a few short months really. She's awesome.



LaDawn was my next victim. LaDawn is the sweet mom of three adorable boys (one of whom is in heaven), and a baby on the way. She's an awesome cake decorator too. She's an inspiration to me.



Somewhere along the way I came across Gwennaelle's blog-backandthen. She has been documenting her return to the church. I'm inspired by her courage and honesty. She's from France, and recently sent me some fabulous chocolate. Is it any wonder I love her?



I think I came across Rebecca's blog through Gwennaelle's. Rebecca is another beautiful young woman. She lives with her hubby and two kitties in Califoria. She is passionate about the causes she believes in. I think she's also courageous and valiant. Truly a Warrior in these latter days.



I came across Spencers blog through MormonBlogs or some such blog search apparatus. I left a commet on his blog, and his wonderful sweet wife Merrianne responded. Merrianne is sweet, kind, funny and oh so full of life and love for her wonderful family. I can't link her blog here, because she recently had to shut it down after too many weirdos began bugging her--the cost of fame! I'm happy to say she has become a great blogging buddy. Hers is the first blog I visit each day.



I don't remember how I came across Mrs. Mordecai's blog, but I have truly enjoyed reading her posts. Her blog is pretty, and so full of wonderful and helpful information on the art of homemaking. Other home-making blogs I have truly enjoyed include Our Red House--Kate lives in Australia and shares wonderful recipes, and pictures of her beautiful home.



Ok, I think I remember how I came across her blog, probably the same way I stumbled across a lot of blogs, through MormonBlogs. That's how I found Jenn Lee's blog too. She's a beautiful young woman documenting her family's life. She has three ADORABLE little girls. I love reading her posts. They're all so gracious and she dwells only on the beautiful things in life. I could surely take a lesson or two from her.



Through Jenn Lee's blog, I came across Alyssa's at Resolved to Worship. Here is a gorgeous Christian woman with six gorgeous children (and one on the way) and a gorgeous husband. She has had her fair share of ups and downs, but always turns it over to the Lord. She writes some beautiful and long posts that always leave me feeling inspired to study the scriptures more.



There are several that I read just to absorb the creativity of the blog keeper. Sometimes I comment on these, and sometimes I don't. Theres: Grace Violet and Gingham World. Lemon Annie has a great blog about home decor and design. There's also Robin over at the Robins Nest, she too has great decorating and crafting ideas. She hostd a Christmas stocking swap a while back, and through that I met up with Amy J. She has a beautiful family too. They've endured their fair share of trials already. She is a great photographer. I love her posts, and I can't wait to send her stocking off to her.



Laura commented on my last giveaway, and I've been visiting her ever since. She's another creative lady. She lives in Kentucky with her handsome hubby and several cute kitties. She has an Etsy shop where she sells cute little pet beds. She has some great girls nights out with her buddies the Red Hots.


Jeri from In the Gutter is a wonderful writer. Her posts really just brighten my day. She's an American transplanted in England while her husband serves in the military. Really, I should say their whole family is serving. I can't think of much greater sacrifice than the ones our wonderful service-men and their families make on our behalf every day (aside from the greatest sacrifice wrought on our behalf by the Saviour).


In the witty category there's:

Kristen P. -- her posts crack me up. Several other blogs that keep me in stitches are Mindi's , she posts some of the funniest stuff.; and Mother Goose's I'm still getting to know the Goose, but so far I like what I've learned.


Tammy alternates between keeping me laughing, inspired and in a stupor of thought with her posts.


Sher and Mush are a couple of awesome marathon moms. If I ever take up running it will be due to their inspiration. They both have beautiful families on top of great blogs. Sher is a wonderful pianist, and will soon have a cd of her music coming out. I couldn't be more excited for her.


I found Dolly through Merriannes blog. She's a super sweetheart who has a son on a mission in Switzerland. Through Dolly's blog, I came across Mary's. Now, this is one funny lady. And she holds the key to my thankful thought for today. To understand what I'm talking about, go visit this post. My thankful item?---diapers.

Ok, this is going to have to be part one to a two part post. Because, there's still more. Until then, I hope you check out some of these wonderful ladies and get to know them. I'm sure enjoying them.

Have a great Saturday.








Thursday, November 6, 2008

What I've learned over the past 200+ posts


  • First and foremost, I've learned I'm addicted to blogging. I spend probably 3-4 hours a day reading through other blogs and leaving comments. Maybe I'm just a really slow reader. Most of that time is spent in the evenings after the kids go to bed. This means I generally don't get to be until after eleven o'clock each day. And I wonder why my hubby thinks he's neglected?

  • I have learned there are many really, really wonderful people out there. My heart has been gladdened by the many wonderful acts of kindness I observed in the days and weeks following the plane crash that left Stephanie (of the Nienie Dialogues) and Christian Nielson in the hospital. There are various other blogs that I have come across as well, that are about precious families dealing with very difficult circumstances. I have been inspired by them all. You can find some of them here, and here--truly amazing people. Really.

  • I learned how to include a link in my post. I had to borrow a book from the library to do it, but hey, whatever it takes right?

  • I've learned that I have a lot to say, even if most of it doesn't make sense to anybody but me. I've also learned that there are lots of kind people who leave me a comment anyway, just because they're nice.

  • I've learned that I'm a comment junkie. The comments shouldn't really matter to me, but they do. I love receiving them. (I think I just answered your question Shauna--oops. I'll still include it in my answer post next week) I'm not sure why either. Is it because I want to be popular, or do I just like receiving validation?

  • I've learned that I still have a problem finishing things. I've started several other blogs, and then stopped adding posts to them. I need to either delete them, or give them a little more attention. (Like I can afford to lose any more time to the blogosphere).

  • I've learned I really need to get my priorities in order.

And now for a few things I still need to figure out:

  • How do you do those cute little hearts in the posts?
  • How do you put a youtube video in a post?
  • How do you change what it says at the bottom of your blog posts--you know where it shows how many comments you have?
  • Is there a way to have my blog remember the signature I might want to include at the end of each of my posts, or do I have to stick that html code into each and every post?
  • How to prioritize
  • I'm sure I'm forgetting tons of other things I want to learn how to do.

So there you have it. What have you learned from blogging?

Now for my thankful thing:

I am thankful for Harry and Esther Snyder. Who are they? you ask.....well, they're the founders of In-n-Out Burgers. If you've read my blog for very long, you know I have an obsession with In-n-Out. I think Harry was inspired of the Lord to create the In-n-Out cheeseburger, and I'm so thankful that he did. :o) I truly enjoyed my cheeseburger on my way home from work tonight. Every last gloriously delicious bite. I hope there's an In-n-Out in Heaven (assuming I make it there of course!).

Have a happy Friday everyone!

What's doing

Ok, seriously I have way too many blogs on my google reader!! I just spent the last three hours reading and commenting on them, and there weren't even posts on all of 'em!! But, really I can't eliminate any of them, because I love all of you guys!! So, what to do? (I'll ponder on that for a week or two).
Thought I'd post some of our happenings from the last couple of days.
Yesterday, Jon took the day off from work, since the girls were out of school anyway. They were going to go fishing, but it was too windy.
So instead, we went to Gilcrease Orchard. It's a little late in the season to pick anything good, but we did get some green tomatoes and a gigantic zucchini. We also got a gallon of their delicious apple cider.
After that, we went anyway to Floyd Lamb State Park, where Jon would have taken the girls fishing. We walked around and visited the sites they have there. It really was kind of intersting. I had no idea about it's history.




They offer pony rides and carriage rides, which we didn't take advantage of yesterday. But we did visit the horsies.....




Such beautiful creatures. We all decided that in our next home, we want plenty of space to have some horses.



Jason really liked the horsies.

Justin loves his daddy!!
This guy was kind of mean to the other horses. He wanted all our attention for himself. He was gorgeous though.

It really was a lovely way to spend the day.
This evening, we got to go out to eat at a new casino that's going to be opening up next week--Aliante Station. Jon works with someone who is married to one of the employees. We got dinner at the buffet for free. I guess it's kind of a trial run for the employees to wait on us and practice their skills. It was pretty good. I thought it was awesome I didn't have to make supper.
Lastly, since it's November, I want to mention every time I post, something I'm grateful for. So today, I'm grateful for my hubby, who is so kind, thoughtful, giving, loving--really loving. He loves me so much--and sometimes I wonder why. I'm grateful that he's conscientous. I'm grateful that he can be spontaneous, even though he usually likes to have things all planned and mapped out. He really is terrific.
Hope you have a great Thursday!!
PS don't forget to enter my giveaway!!