Eternal Corner

Silhouettes...

2009-12-07T05:15:00.000-08:00

Ben

Nate

Jake

Sarah

This past weekend we got our Christmas tree up! Decorations are all out, and shiny too! :) I have been wanting to make ornament silhouettes, of the kids. I was in Hobby Lobby a few months ago, and found the cutest frame ornaments! Perfect! Yesterday, I went to work, and this is the final product. :)

wrapping paper...

2009-12-04T04:46:00.001-08:00

I have been having fun making yo yo's, to put on top of presents.

I have heard of people wrapping the gifts, they put under their tree, in the same color scheme before. Before now, I never have given it much thought. Well, guess what? I gave it some thought...and am going to give it a try. I LOVE the reds, and whites. I am going to add a splash of green too. I actually, am kind of having fun, purchasing wrapping paper that match. Have you ever gone with a color scheme, for the gifts under your Christmas tree? I would love to hear about it. :)

Happy December...

2009-12-01T04:35:00.000-08:00

Ohhh, how I love this time of the year. There is such a magical feeling in the air. I love the little things that I see. The lady from the Salvation Army, ringing her bell in front of my local grocery store. I love the Christmas music on the radio. I love the magic...yes the magic of December! Happy December 1st friends! We have 24 more days...who's counting? :)

We did it...

2009-11-23T04:40:00.001-08:00

Ben and Lauren

Sarah and I

We went to New Moon Friday evening. We even got Ben, and Steve to go. Sarah LOVED the movie, Lauren LOVED the movie, I liked the movie, Steve made it thru it and Ben thinks we are all nuts! :)

Thanksgiving/New Moon...

2009-11-20T05:24:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is 6 days away!!! I have a question for all of you? I really would LOVE, and I do mean LOVE, your responses, on this one. What are some of your favorite Thanksgiving dishes? We are having Thanksgiving this year, at our home. That means I am cooking. That means SOS! :) Send in the troupes! :)

Well, New Moon has officially be out 6 hours and 38 minutes. I got lucky, and didn't have to brave the crowds, and the late or early hours. I know we will be there sometime during the day, today. Are you planning on going? Did you already go? I am off....have a splendid Friday! :)

Tuesday...

2009-11-17T03:52:00.000-08:00

Saturday before the events.

Thank you for all of the warm comments. It feels sooo good to be back! :)

We have been to many wedding receptions, showers, etc. in the past year or so. This weekend we had 3 weddings, and a baptism we were invited to attend. I LOVE seeing people, that are in love! So happy, that they chose to spend forever together! It makes me reflect on Steve, and I. January 19Th, we will have been married 25 years. I love the fact that, I can talk to him about anything, and everything. Sooo much so, that last night I had Christmas, and Thanksgiving on my mind. It was about 2:00 a.m. He finally quit replying to me. I knew he wasn't asleep, because of the sound of his breathing...snoring! :) That is another post for another day. He finally piped up, and said, that he couldn't hear what I was saying!!! He played deaf! Love that man! :) HAPPY Tuesday!

:)

2009-11-12T03:38:00.000-08:00

The group! Halloween 2009. Ward party.

I'm back! After a month of flu, weddings, baby showers, births, baptisms, trips and many other events. I am so happy to be here. Right here at www.eternalcorner.blogspot.com I sure have missed everyone! :)

Thank you Jake...

2009-10-01T05:58:00.000-07:00

More decorating for fall..

I needed some help, getting the hay from the driveway to the front porch. Jake was a big help! Oh, and Mollie too!

It's begining to look spooooky...

2009-09-26T06:45:00.000-07:00

Finally! I thought we had the computer problem fixed on my computer, not so. I switched computers, so now am back! Ohh, how I have missed blogging!

Here we are at the end of September! This month has literally flown by. Fall break starts in less than 2 weeks! Ohhh, how I love this time of year!

break out the decor...

2009-09-17T05:23:00.001-07:00

I LOVE this time of the year. It is that time when I want to break out the Halloween/Fall decorations. This weekend, is the weekend! My decorations ar kept in the attic. Everyone around my house knows, I don't go in the attic! So, my sweet husband will get to do that little job for me.

Some of my favorite things, transpire during these next few months. The change of weather, leaves changing color, a nip in the air...finally, blankets, football games, pumpkins, witches, goblins, apples, smells etc. I think I could go on, and on. What are a few of your favorite things about this beautiful time of year?

Remembering...

2009-09-11T07:49:00.000-07:00

I was in the kitchen of our Val Vista Lakes home. The kids were getting ready for their school day. News channel 3 was on the TV, as it has been, every morning for well over 20 years. The vivid images, that still remain in my mind, came across the screen. It was time to get going. Time to take the kids to school. The boys to the bus stop.I took the kids to school. When I returned home, I went right to the TV. At that point, I was nervous. I got back in the car, and went, and picked up all of the kiddos. They had just made it to school, an hour or two before. We spent the day together, at home. Safe...our haven.

Hello...

2009-09-09T06:24:00.000-07:00

Hello there! I sure have missed my blogging friends. I was having problems, staying connected to my blog. I would sign on to it, and it would kick me right off. I was frustrated to say the least. The problem is fixed now, so back to blogging! :) I have so much to blog about, that has passed. I decided to just start from here, and move forwards. I have a post coming later today. I just wanted to let everyone know all is well here. I hope all is well there too! :)

Beauty and the Beast

2009-08-08T08:58:00.000-07:00

Last night Steve, Sarah and I went to see the play Beauty and the Beast at the Hale theater. It was fantastic! The cast was amazing, the costumes were so bright and the singing was beautiful! The Hale theater is located here in Gilbert. The other plays that will be playing this year are...She Loves Me, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, and A Christmas Carol. I want to see all three! :)

Well, I better get busy getting things finished for Monday. I just can't believe, school starts in 2 days!!! When do your kiddos go back to school? Are you ready? :)

Steve...

2009-07-31T20:10:00.001-07:00

We have had a eventful week around our house. Steve started having severe pain, last Wednesday night. I wanted to take him to the E.R. but he sure didn't want to go. After some timed passed, we ended up at the E. R. around 11:00 P.M. Luckily once he was given morphine, his pain calmed down. He was diagnosed with having gall stones. He had gall bladder taken out Tuesday, the 28th. He has been home, and resting. Today he did go into the office, and did pretty well. I just have to post a picture. He is to cute of a patient not to! :)

Greg Olson...

2009-07-26T08:43:00.000-07:00

This one reminds me of my three boys, and our dog Austie.

This is my hearts favorite. It has been hanging in our home since Sarah's heart surgery. It is titled, For lo, I am always with you.

One of my favorite artists is Greg Olson. I have loved his his work for as long as I can remember. I signed up to receive a daily picture via Facebook. Here are some of my favorites. Enjoy!

cake...cupcake...

2009-07-20T15:04:00.000-07:00

This is a cake I found on the internet. Sooo cute!

When we were in California, we saw the cutest cupcake!!! I knew I was going to have to figure out how to make one myself! I have seen on a few blogs the cupcakes that are large, and made as a cake. When we got back to town I started looking for the cake pan/pans I would need. I found my cake pan at Joann's. It originally was 32.oo, but I used my 50% coupon. Sarah, and I just pulled the cake out of the oven. I will for sure post pictures, once we get it decorated. I am loving baking, even knowing it is 114 outside, and HOT in the kitchen! :)

Some California fun...

2009-07-16T09:43:00.000-07:00

Nate, and his friend Chris.

Nate having fun on the beach!

We are back, and in full swing! I am just about done with all of the sandy laundry we brought back from California. :) We sure had a great time! The kids said that this was one of their favorite years at the beach. That makes me feel happy! We snorkeled, jet skiied, rode bikes, shopped, ate, went to church in Newport, visited the Newport Temple, spent a lot of time at the beach, laughed, and juist flat out enjoyed being together.

Missing my blogging friends...

2009-07-10T06:47:00.001-07:00

We are enjoying every minute of our time in Newport. I will be back home in a few days. I sure miss my blogging friends. I will be back with some fun pictures to post. Have a great weekend! :)

Happy 4th...

2009-07-02T17:49:00.000-07:00

I am off to celebrate the 4Th with my family. I want to wish each, and every one of you a Happy 4Th!!!

sewing, painting, and having fun...

2009-06-29T07:39:00.000-07:00

I had to post these sunflowers. I was at Fry's a few weeks ago, and they had them for a dollar a piece. They were the prettiest sunflowers I have ever seen.

I sure have been enjoying this summer. When summer started I told myself that we as a family where going to stretch, and grow. Go places we haven't been before, do things we haven't done before, etc. I now know how to sew, and LOVE it! I will post some pictures of some blankets I have made tomorrow. We also have painted the craft room, and a few accents that are going in it. Hopefully, we will have it all put together this week. I can't wait to post pictures. I am loving the joy, I am finding, in meeting some personal goals. I have learned that I can do it!!! President Spencer W. Kimball shared the words Do It these words many years ago. I love them. They are so simple, yet have so much meaning behind these 2 little words.

Fun site..words

2009-06-27T18:56:00.001-07:00

title="Wordle: Michelle"> src="http://www.wordle.net/thumb/wrdl/973272/Michelle"
alt="Wordle: Michelle"
style="padding:4px;border:1px solid #ddd">© 2009 Jonathan Feinberg Terms of Use subscribe

I am loving this site! I think it would be fun to make these for family friends, teachers, etc. I think I am going to make them for the kids, and put them in their rooms. If you have a second, check this site out, it really is fun!

Painting.

2009-06-24T07:28:00.000-07:00

One of the summer projects we have this summer is to paint, and beautify the craft room! :) I am so excited to get to the painting part! I have been wanting a room with more pazaz! Last night Sarah, and I headed to Lowe's to buy paint. Sarah picked out a color similar to the one in the picture posted. I'm excited to get to work, paintbrush in hand! :) I will post pictures of our progress!

I'm back...

2009-06-22T15:43:00.001-07:00

This darling quote was found on etsy. I just had to share!

It feels like I have been on a blogging hiatus. I really haven't, summer time just got away with me. :) Everyone is having a really good summer so far. Today it is supposed to be around 103! It is definitely warming up!

I also have been spending some of my time sewing! I am loving it! I have made a few quilts, a pillow, and am piecing together pieces for a quilt. I wish I would have had enough confidence in myself long ago for sewing! I was missing out! :)

Well, I am back, and blogging, and it feels good. I have missed everyone. :)

Sarah is on a jet plane...

2009-06-13T16:29:00.000-07:00

I love this picture of Sarah. My cousin Ashley took it a few months ago. As I was looking thru pictures, I came across it. Sarah added the quote next to it. Very fitting for her. We have missed you Sarah! Welcome home!

We will be heading to the airport, in a few hours to pick Sarah up from Provo. She attended EFY all week. She stayed in the dorms at BYU. She has had such a wonderful week. I feel so blessed, that she was able to receive so much goodness in one place. This was her second year attending EFY. I am sure she will be there again next year. It is on her top list of things to do!

The 4th is on it's way...

2009-06-10T16:02:00.001-07:00

Martha Stewart always has the funnest ideas!

I LOVE summer! One of the things I look forward to is the 4th of July! I can't believe, it is going to be here in less than a month. I am trying to put a few things out, around the house, to bring the 4th alive! I have been looking over some summer recipes. I usuallt try to make a few new summer dishes for the 4th. I would love any ideas! :)

Yo Yo's...

2009-06-07T12:22:00.001-07:00

Sarah's necklace

Necklace, and or headband

pillow cases

We have been having so much fun making Yo Yo's! They are sooo easy, and fun!

Free Donuts...

2009-06-05T07:55:00.000-07:00

Today is National Donut Day! Krispy Kreams is handing out free donuts today. One per customer! Go have some sweet fun! :)

sewing...

2009-05-31T16:38:00.000-07:00

My goal for the summer is for my family, and I to stretch, and grow. We have a little more free time now than we did during school. We all love learning new things. The one thing that was at the top of my list, was sewing! I did take sewing in Home Ec. in Junior High School, but it didn't stick to well. :) Sarah has been wanting to learn to sew also. I was thrilled when my friend Cheryl, offered to come over, and help Sarah, and I get going. Cheryl was soooo patient! I didn't even know how to thread the machine properly! I sewed a pillow case to start with. I am so proud of that thing! We are going to move on to skirts next time. We have also been working on yo yo's for headbands. I don't have any pictures of those, but will post them when I do. If any of you have any ideas for sewing projects for beginners, I would love to hear about them. :) Have a wonderful Sabbath!

relfections...

2009-05-18T06:31:00.000-07:00

Bliss!

I am sitting here reflecting on this past school year. We only have 2 full days, and 2 half days left. Thursday is the big day! It is time for this family to relax some. I do enjoy being busy, but there comes a time, when it is time to put the brakes on, and put it into slow gear. We have all been blessed with being so healthy this year. That is up until the past 2 weeks. Colds, coughs, soar throats, have taken over. I think it is our bodies way of saying enough! Time to re-group around here, and have a happy, and healthy start to SUMMER! :)

checking in...almost summer

2009-05-14T06:04:00.000-07:00

checking in...

I sure haven't been to up on my blogging as of late. It seems with the school year coming to an end, we have had many activities. One more week, and life will slow down. It will officially be summer at our house! :) The boys are all done with their college finals. I sure am proud of them, for finishing up a good school year. Sarah is still counting the days...today we have 7 more days to go! :) I am making a list of things, that I want to get done around here in the next week. Things that need attention now, or will be put on hold for a few months. How many days until school is out for your kiddos? Are they counting too? :) Do you have any fun plans you want to share? It is always so fun to hear others ideas!

love cupcakes...

2009-05-07T05:37:00.000-07:00

Bakeitpretty.com

These are the cutest dolies I have seen!

I love anything that has to do with cupcakes. I think that they are such a fun way to make a treat. I found a site that I just have to share. It is just to darn c-u-t-e!

Happy May Day!

2009-05-01T06:46:00.001-07:00

This picture is from a wonderful blog. www.skiptomylou.org. She has some fun ideas for May Day!

I always loved May Day while growing up. I thought it was such a great thing, to make paper baskets, and fill them with flowers for neighbors. Today I want to do just that. I am going to head on out to the rose bushes, and create some bouquets. Did you celebrate May Day as a child? Do you celebrate now? I think it is such a beautiful tradition. Have a Happy May Day!

Roses...

2009-04-21T05:53:00.000-07:00

This picture was to cute to not post. Mollie is laying on our bedroom floor. Can you tell my bed wasn't made yesterday? Mollie is snuggling a pillow and one of her toys.

When the weather warms up, my roses are one of my favorite things! Sarah took a few pictures yesterday of these beauties.

2009-04-19T08:51:00.000-07:00

Brad, Nate, and Shane. Friends for many years.

Ben, Nate, Sarah, and Jake. I think Ben was trying to tell me "enough pictures." :)

Ben giving me the evil eye. (:

Sarah and T.

Nate's best friend Evan got married on Friday! He married the cutest girl, Amanda. We are all so happy for them! We all went to the reception. It was such a special evening. We were able to see so many people we haven't seen in a while. We even ran into some wonderful neighbors we had about 15 years ago. It was so fun to catch up with them, and hear about their children. One of the blessings I find living in the same area for so many years is, getting to see how little kids turn into great young adults. My kids have had a lot of the same friends since they were little. Friday before we all left for the reception B & S showed up looking so handsome! I just had to take some pictures!

Sarah's photo shoot...

2009-04-15T05:20:00.001-07:00

If you are ever looking for a photographer, I would highly recomend Ashley. You can check out her photography blog here www.embraceyourcreativity.blogspot.com
a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J6a8OTZNZ2E/SeXUq-y_5tI/AAAAAAAADD0/Ce1EF8fDsok/s1600-h/NLP__4web.jpg">

Day before yesterday Sarah, and I were lucky to be able to, spend the afternoon with my cousin Ashley. Ashley is not just my cousin. She is truely a wonderful friend, and such a great example to me. We share many stories about our kids, the love of motherhood, struggles of motherhood, the gospel, talents, laughter, similarities, ups, downs, and best of all friendship.

Here are a few pictures of the photoshoot she had with Sarah. I LOVE how beautiful they turned out! I know I may be bragging a bit, but I think that girl of mine is pretty darn pretty!

Easter...

2009-04-14T08:04:00.000-07:00

Nate

Jacob
a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J6a8OTZNZ2E/SeSng9wjg9I/AAAAAAAADDI/QeJUQlwo8XY/s1600-h/Easter+09%27!+014.jpg">
Jake, Ben, Cody and Sarah

Sarah

Mollie got in on the Easter egg decorating too!

We had a really nice Easter. We started off the day with going to church. Then we came home, and relaxed a little, then the cooking began! We had a yummy ham dinner with all of the fixins!

Geting ready for Easter...

2009-04-11T06:31:00.000-07:00

There are many things to do today, to prepare for tomorrow. Pick up dry cleaning, set table, for Easter dinner, arrange floral arrangement, pick up house, grocery shop, make desserts, dye Easter eggs, and fill baskets! I am off to an Eastery day! :)

Cousins...Easter Pagent..Baskets...

2009-04-07T06:45:00.000-07:00

We just spent 4 fun filled days with my Niece, Nephew, and his wife Alex. I have so much to blog about. The laptop the pictures are downloaded on, are over at the office, with Steve. I will post about our time spent together this evening, after Steve gets home.

Easter has been on my mind. We are planning on attending, the Easter pageant, at the Mesa temple this week. This is something I have been looking forward to. The true meaning of Easter is presented in such a beautiful, and tender way. If anyone wants to go, it starts at 8:00 P.M. on the grounds of the Mesa temple, each night this week. I also am going to go run my Easter errands this morning. Time to do a little Easter basket shopping. :) What do you put in the kids baskets? I would LOVE some new ideas!

Sunday afternoon with Nanny and Bud...

2009-03-31T06:38:00.000-07:00

Sarah and Bud...so cute.

Linda and Miss Mollie

Sunday afternoon we went over to Steve's parents home for dinner, and to visit. The weather was beautiful, so we ate outside. It was such a relaxing afternoon. Linda gave us a book, she had made of all of her famous recipes. I was sooo happy to receive this. Linda, is such a wonderful cook! Now I will have the recipes for her famous hot fudge, peanut brittle, scone recipe etc. I only wish I could be as good of a cook as her. We decided to bring Mollie so Linda could see her. We keep trying to talk them into getting a dog. :) So far, Bud has kept to his firm NO! :)

The Spring Cleaning bug has hit me. Thank goodness! I am feeling productive today. I am planning on finishing the bathroom closet this morning. I started last night, and needed a little break. I am not sure how in the world that closet got sooo bad! Does anyone else have the spring cleaning bug? :)

Tucson...

2009-03-28T13:14:00.000-07:00

Steve and Ben...looking like twins!

Getting ready to leave for Tucson.

Sean, and Ben

Yesterday Steve, Ben and I got up early, and went to a good friends graduation, from the Cota academy in Tucson. It was a great day! We sure are proud of Sean for doing such a wonderful job! We hadn't been down there since, Ben's graduation, a few years ago. It brought back a lot of memories. After the ceremony we all went out to eat at Cracker Barrel. Then headed back home. We had a great day together.

Spring Break 2009

2009-03-23T20:04:00.001-07:00

The twins and Miss Sarah

Steve and I. Sarah was taking a picture when the tide came in, and got our feet wet. Brrrr

Steve, Sarah and I

Dinner in Laguna.

I got behind on posting pictures from our trip to California. For my own records I am adding them now. It sure was a good time, and the weather was perfect.

Easter cuteness...

2009-03-21T09:31:00.000-07:00

I keep seeing all of these cute decor items for Easter. It makes me want to start making a few myself. I was on www.marthastewart.com and sure found some fun things. Here are just a few. If you have a minute,check her site out...amazing!

2009-03-19T07:15:00.001-07:00

I love spring break! I have really enjoyed not being on a schedule. We got home from California Monday evening. We sure had a fun time while we were there. The boys weren't able to join us this time. Sarah brought 2 friends. We had so much fun playing on the beach, eating, singing, laughing, talking, dog watching, and of course taking advantage of the beautiful scenery. I love the beauty of the ocean. Now that we are home, we are having late mornings, and late nights. :) Last night we went to pizza, and ice cream. We decided to stop by the pet store after dinner. This is a weekly event for us, it seems like. There were some of the cutest dogs there!!! There was a little cockapoo that looked just like Miss Mollie! He was a little boy though. I about had myself convinced he needed to come home with us. :) I gathered my senses quickly though. :) Last week when we were in there Nate wanted to take home a bulldog! We are animal lovers! Today is going to be another "no" schedule day for us. I love it!

California...

2009-03-14T05:31:00.000-07:00

Spring break is here, and I am loving it! A few of us are headed over to the beach in California. I hope to have tons of fun pictures when I return. Have a great weekend! :)

concert tonight...

2009-03-12T06:47:00.000-07:00

Steve, and I got a call from a good friend of ours. He has tickets to go see Rascal Flats, and Jessica Simpson tonight. He wont be able to go because of another commitment,so gave the tickets to us!!! I am looking forward to a fun night with my hubby! Thank you Sean! :)

Yesterday I snapped a few pictures around the house. It is so pretty outdoors, that I had to capture this cute little fella! I think he is sooo cute!

a strawberry!

2009-03-09T08:34:00.000-07:00

These aren't the berries from my yard, but from the web. :)

About 2 weeks ago I planted flowers peppers, tomatoes, and strawberries. I love going out daily to check on them. To me they are beautiful! At the end of last week I saw my first strawberry! I was thrilled! I have a picture I want to post, but Steve has the laptop that the picture was downloaded on. That's OK though...I am going to post it later. :) Yes, I am proud! :)

This morning is the typical Monday morning madness. Laundry, picking up etc. I love the weekends, so it makes Monday worth the added domestic bliss! :) I am off to fold laundry.

Fun site...

2009-03-04T05:35:00.000-08:00

I am loving this site! hookedonhouses.net. I could spend w-a-y to much time on this, looking at homes, decor, etc. If you have a minute, check it out! Tons of fun ideas, and inspiration!

Sarah's photography giveaway ends Friday. Don't forget to enter! She is such an amazing photographer. Check her site out here. Naavieleighphotography.blogspot.com

Happy to blog, and the dreaded.. :)

2009-03-03T07:32:00.000-08:00

It feels so good to sit down, and blog. I think it is spring fever that has kept me away from the computer, and out doors more. I am glad to be back, and blogging.

Today is the day! Yeppers it is! :) I am doing the one thing that I really don't care to do. The one thing I dread! The one thing that seems to multiply in our house. You guessed it...laundry! Today I am taking a different approach. No showering until it is done. This way, I can't talk myself into doing something that sounds tons better! The windows are open, the birds are chirping, and really....it isn't to bad. :)

Sarah's giveaway...

2009-02-28T16:52:00.001-08:00

Check my side bar ------------------>

Sarah is a wonderful photographer. She has been busy taking pictures for all sorts of different occasions. She does such an amazing job. She is having a giveaway for all of the Arizona gals. Pass the word along, and good luck! :)

www.naavieleighphotography.blogspot.com

Spring Fever...

2009-02-23T05:26:00.000-08:00

I have decided that with the nice temperatures we are having, I have gotten spring fever! I want to plant flowers, be outside, and even clean a little more! Now I know it must be spring fever! :) I decided later this ,I am going to make a calendar for the week. Things that I want to clean, and organize. The kitchen drawers in our house are calling my name! I am not sure when it happens, but for some reason, these drawers are c-l-u-t-t-e-r-e-d! I am off to start the morning! Happy Monday! :)

Las Vegas February 2009

2009-02-17T05:21:00.000-08:00

Having fun!

Love this piano in FAO Schwarz. I could have stayed in that store all day!

We went to Vegas! I have never really been a huge Vegas fan. This time was different! Since we don't gamble we haven't spent to much time in Vegas. This trip was fun packed, and so entertaining. Friday evening we went to see Le Reve. It was such a beautiful show. There was beautiful music, water, dancing, etc. Saturday we got massages. That was heavenly. Well mine was. Steve freaked out when he found out that a man would be giving him his. Long story, but he is a little phobic! :) After wards we had lunch, shopped, and then back to the hotel. We got ready to go see Chriss Angel the magician. Then we got some dessert, and people watched! I could have watched people all night long! We went with our friends the Bennetts. Thank goodness they enjoy people watching too! I think we stayed up until about 1:00 a.m. laughing. They were great friends to travel with. We all headed to the airport Sunday afternoon. It was a wonderful weekend! Thank you so much Steve for setting this up. What a wonderful gift!

I am back...

2009-02-11T19:18:00.000-08:00

I have been on a little blogging vacation. Not intentionally, just can't think of what to blog about. This rarely happens to me. I usually have so much to write about, that I have to pick, and choose. I think my vacation is over, and my mind is with it again! :) I wanted to ask you..is anyone loving American Idol as much as I am? Wow, there is a lot of talent this year. I really am looking forward to, when they are down to the top 12. That is when it really get exciting!

K, on a different note..I was surprised! Steve surprised me with a mini vacation to celebrate our anniversary, and my birthday. He wasn't going to tell me were we were going. Finally yesterday, I let him know that I really didn't know how to pack. Then he decided to tell me. We have a hard time keeping secrets from each other. We will be leaving early Friday morning. You will have to check back tomorrow to see what is in the works! :) ha ha!

Fun Stuff!

2009-02-06T16:49:00.001-08:00

Hey good looking! Jake

I have been having so much fun! I hope you do too! :) www.dumpr.net

Surprise...Happy 18th Birthday Elli!

2009-02-03T05:51:00.000-08:00

Happy 18Th Elli

My Mother in law - Linda, Elli, Sarah, and me! :)

Elli and Sarah

Sarah

Sarah and I

Families are Forever

We are home after a fun filled weekend! We thought it would be special to take a visit to Logandale Nevada. We decided a few months ago, that we wanted to surprise Elli on her 18Th birthday. Elli is my niece, and Sarah's best friend/cousin. They adore each other, and always have. We thought it would be fun to show up at Elli's school with balloons, and surprise her. She didn't know we were coming to town. We didn't know that she was going to be in the middle of a pep assembly, cheering! My sister in law set everything up at the school, so it all worked out wonderful! In the middle of Elli's cheer we walked in the gym. She saw us walking in with balloons, flowers etc. She screamed, LOUD, and then started screaming again. I am not sure what the other cheerleaders thought, or the kids at the school. It was TONS of fun, and a great surprise.

So thankful...

2009-01-29T07:17:00.000-08:00

I am so thankful for a family that I adore. I know that I picked these wonderful people out in heaven. There is nothing more in the whole world I would rather be doing, than spending time with these 5 people I love to the moon and back.

I am thankful for a lot of blankets, and Amoxicillin.

I am thankful that I am flying out of town early in the morning tomorrow, and getting back in time to watch the Cardinals play, on Sunday! Go Cardinals! (This is why I am even more thankful for Amoxixillin. I have no idea why, but as an adult I seem to get more ear infections, than when I was a child.)

I'm so thankful for this blog, and being able to write down my thoughts, feelings, good times, sad times, etc. I also am thankful for YOU!

Class with Julie...

2009-01-28T05:50:00.000-08:00

Last night was such a great night. First of all, I got to spend it with my sister, Julie. We decided a month or so ago, that we were going to taking a canning class together. My Mom, and Lash had given me a caner for Christmas! I was thrilled. I canned when my kids were little, but not much. I canned peaches, and applesauce. My knowledge of canning was minimal. After attending last nights class at Char's in Mesa, I feel confident. I think the first thing we are going to can is pinto beans! My family loves them!

Fun times at high school...

2009-01-26T06:43:00.000-08:00

girls will be girls...

Sarah came home from school on Friday, and showed me this picture. To my suprise, Sarah and her cute friends, were sitting on the security guards golf cart. This golf cart is one, that you get a ride to the principals office on. I asked her if the security guard knew that they were sitting on the cart. She replied...He was the one who took the picture! Sarah is sitting on the back left.

Notes...

2009-01-24T12:11:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was National handwriting day. No matter, today, tomorrow, or the next. This afternoon I am going to write a few notes to those I love. I am going to break out the Valentine's I have been wanting to get started on. Have a great weekend!

sunshine and lemons...

2009-01-21T06:29:00.000-08:00

Since it sounds like cooler temperatures are on the way, I just had to post this picture. This weekend while Sarah was out by the pool, I got a little creative. I love the produce this time of year! The lemon, and orange trees have done a wonderful job this year! These yummy lemons are going to make lemonade for dinner tonight!

Anniversary...

2009-01-19T11:06:00.000-08:00

24 wonderful years! Happy Anniversary Steve! I LOVE you!

2009-01-18T11:30:00.000-08:00

This is what we will be watching today! Go Cardinals!

Happy Friday!

2009-01-16T05:29:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it already Friday. This week has flown by. I am glad it is a 3 day weekend. The weather here has been beautiful! The last couple of days it has been in the high 70's. We are planning on doing some activities outdoors this weekend.

I am going to make the Valentine fortune cookies this afternoon. I think they are so cute! I figure if I make them now, then when Valentines Day comes around, I will be ready. Do you have any fun Valentine ideas to share? I would love to hear about them. :)

Valentines...

2009-01-14T08:34:00.000-08:00

I am going to make these for Steve for Valentines. I am going to pick up one of those cute Chinese take out boxes at Michael's.

I was at Target yesterday afternoon. They have all of their Valentine decorations, cards, etc. out. I love this time of year. I think it is nice to have a holiday of LOVE after Christmas. Since Christmas has a lot to do with LOVE. I have a few decorations I am going to get out for Valentines. I saw the cutest idea on www.marthastewart.com. I have to share! :)

The Light Rail...Ben

2009-01-12T20:30:00.001-08:00

Friday Ben, and I decided we would try out the new Light Rail. We took it from Mesa to Tempe. We got off of it right near ASU. I have to say that I am really impressed by how easy it is to take the rail. It took us about 20 minutes to get from Mesa to Tempe. That was with the stopping in between. We walked around Mill Street. We decided to have Mexican food for lunch. This is both of our favorites. We talked, shopped, and then rode the rail back to Mesa. It was so good to spend some time with Ben. He has endured some trails these past three months. Some that he didn't see coming. Some none of us saw coming. Ben has handled these trials in such an amazing way. He has so much strength. As a Mother, it has been hard to watch him go thru trials, that he has had to endure, at such a young age. He has been such an example to me. It is such a blessing, to be able to have him home again. He is such a joy in my life.

wonderful afternoons...

2009-01-09T06:27:00.000-08:00

Steve gave Sarah, and I bikes for Christmas. I have been enjoying the afternoon time. It feels so nice to go for a long bike ride with Sarah. The sun feels good, the conversations are priceless, and we are getting our exercise in. Riding bikes is one of my favorite things to do! :)

Thankful Thursday...

2009-01-08T06:03:00.000-08:00

Today I have much to be thankful for. I am thankful for a warm house this morning! It is freezing outside! It feels good to hear the heater humming.

I am thankful for my wonderful family. They are the busiest bunch! I am grateful for this. This week, the boys and I are planning on going to ride the new light rail. Fun! Sarah, and I are wanting to go climb up to the A over at ASU. I can't believe I have never done it before!

I'm thankful for Steve. Our anniversary is this month. We will be married 24 years on the 19Th! We have been married well over half of my life! I look forward to the next 24 years.

I'm thankful for my little blog. It has been a blessing to be able to record our life's happenings. It is also a huge blessing to connect with friends, new, and old. :)

Martha Stewart...

2009-01-05T15:14:00.001-08:00

This year, I am in high hopes, that I can get to work on some fun projects! I love looking at Martha's site. www.marthasteweart.com. There is soo many fun ideas! When I wondered over to her site last night, I discovered something wonderful! She now is listing a craft for every day of the week! The directions are right there, to get you started! Ohh just what I need! More fun things to want to do! :) Go check it out, when you have a few minutes. Have fun! :)

Sweet Tooth = Nielsen's

2009-01-03T17:30:00.000-08:00

Today has been a bit of a l-a-z-y day. It feels kind of nice, to finally have a slow day. With my lazy day has come a craving!!!! Nielsen's custard!!! I have tried to talk myself out of going there on, and off today. I am thinking it is time to about give in! :) I know that they will have Vanilla custard, with raspberries, and a little chocolate...yummy! If you live near a Nielsen's, I would recommend it! :)

My word for 2009...

2009-01-01T16:15:00.000-08:00

My word for 2009 is....

1: a state of tranquillity or quiet: as a: freedom from civil disturbance b: a state of security or order within a community provided for by law or custom 2: freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions
3: harmony in personal relations
4 a: a state or period of mutual concord between governments b: a pact or agreement to end hostilities between those who have been at war or in a state of enmity
5—used interjectionally to ask for silence or calm or as a greeting or farewell
— at peace : in a state of concord or tranquillity

Have you chosen yours?

Winter fun 2008

2008-12-30T12:35:00.000-08:00

Jake

Nate

Ben

Steve and I

Michelle, Sarah, and Kelsea at Sunrise.

Mike too! He was on the other side of the room. I think he had to much fun! :)

After we returned from sledding I was in the kitchen working on dinner. I realized all I could hear was the TV. I walked over to see why everyone was so quiet. This is what I found.

Jake...ouch! :)

Ben enjoying the day.

Sarah with the saucer.

Mr. Nate sledding.

It was so nice to get away from the hustle, and bustle, and spend time with family, and a few of their friends. We headed up to Heber Saturday afternoon. Everyone really enjoyed the snow! We went sledding one day, and skiing the other. We also enjoyed quite a bit of food, the fire, Monopoly, and a puzzle.

Now the time is coming upon us to focus on a New Year! I have been thinking about my new word for 2009. I have a few that I am trying to decide between. My word for 2008 has been Simplify. I also have been thinking about New Years resolutions. Hmm, where do I begin! :)

Fun in the snow...

2008-12-28T18:27:00.000-08:00

The kids had fun sledding this afternoon. We also built this snowman. He is a cutie! :)

Christmas part 2

2008-12-27T05:14:00.000-08:00

My sweet Ben

All of us! I love my family.

Christopher and Jacob having fun together

Steve

Nate Jake Ben

Sarah

oops

2008-12-26T20:49:00.000-08:00

I was in the middle of my Christmas post. We left to go to dinner, and one of the boys must have posted it the way it was. It wasn't near complete. :) There is more to come tomorrow. I hope that everyone had a wonderful Christmas!

Christmas together 2008...

2008-12-26T11:17:00.000-08:00

Steve, and Sarah...to much fun!

Yesterday was a wonderful day. We woke the kids right ariund 7:00. They were all excited for the peical day. We opened gifts from one another. I love seeing the thought, and energy that goes into the gifts that are exchanged. We then got ready, and were at my Mom, and Lashe's around 10:45. My Mom had made some wonderful breakfast rolls that we all enjoyed. We spent the rest of the day opening presents, playing Sequence, eating dinner, riding bikes, watching Jake fly his new plane he got for Christmas, visiting, and watching the video Reflections of Christ. I really enjoyed watching this video with my family. There is so tenderness, and feeling to it.

Temple lights 2008

2008-12-22T04:43:00.001-08:00

Jacob, and Julie.

Me, Mom, and Julie.

Christopher, and Julie.

Lash, Christopher, Julie, Sarah, Me, and Mom.

Last night we had dinner with my family, and then went to see the temple lights. I think that the lights are getting prettier, and prettier every year.

Family pictures

2008-12-19T05:54:00.000-08:00

That's my guy!

My girl...

I sure love these guys!

Love...

This quilt was made by mt great grandmother, on my Dad's side of the family. I LOVE it!

Oh yes...Mollie was with us. :)

Here are a few more pictures that Ashley took.

2 great days...and my Santa...

2008-12-16T15:30:00.000-08:00

Oh how I LOVE this picture. The cute old Santa in the middle, was given to me by my Dad. I will never forget waking one morning, and having this Santa snuggled in my bed with me. My Dad had come home from work, and brought my sister, and I, Coca Cola Santa. I believe it was when he had the Coke plant in either California or Idaho. Mom, if your reading this, do you remember? My Dad has since passed. I miss him more than my words could ever express. Every year when the Christmas decorations come out, this Santa is always the one thing I am excited to see. I have to say this is my very favorite Christmas decoration.

I feel really good about the last two days. I have been able to mark off a huge portion of my To Do: Christmas list. I even got the stocking stuffers yesterday. This seems like one thing I wait until the last 2 days or so to get done. I feel much more relaxed now that the bulk of things are done. :) Maybe I'll even watch a Christmas movie this evening.
What good Christmas shows have you seen so far this year? Suggestions are always welcome! :)

Help!

2008-12-15T20:08:00.000-08:00

You know it isn't a good thing when your friends, who own a computer store break the news to you. I received the dreadful call Saturday. NO more FAVORITES! I can't believe it! I LOVE the favorites that I had book marked over a l-o-n-g time. They are no more. I just about panicked when I heard the news. After trying to figure out what to do, a thought came to me. Ta-da...You! If you are a friend and or read my blog, PLEASE leave me a comment, so I can continue to visit you. :) I would be sad to not be able to anymore. That would be tragic in my book! :) You get the picture though...so not fun! :)

Christmas celebration...

2008-12-14T06:04:00.000-08:00

Nate and Geary...moving the computer

Sarah and Nanny

Nanny and Bud

Jake and I

Cute Jake!

MJ

Ben enjoying fun times with family!

Pretty princess Hailey...

Steve and Linda..his Mom.

Katie, and Whitney

Last evening we celebrated Christmas early with Steve's family. My Mother, and father in law are headed to Utah in a week. So yesterday was the day we picked to celebrate together. We were missing Rick, Wendy, and kiddos this year. Hopefully we will see them super soon! There is nothing better than family. We sure love them all!

Cards, and a late nighter...

2008-12-11T18:56:00.000-08:00

I think tonight will be a late nighter. I got our Christmas cards ready to go. Now I need to sit down, and address them. Janie mentioned to me, that Hallmark has movies back to back from 10:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. I think Hallmark just might be my friend tonight. I also knnow that Good old Diet Coke could help too! :)

Favorite Christmas stories...

2008-12-08T06:02:00.001-08:00

I LOVE Christmas stories. I have started to collect Children's Christmas books. This is a favorite new tradition of mine. I love to read them, and remember back in time. Maybe to the time when, I was read to, when I was a little one. I also enjoy reading them to my family. I think everyone enjoys a Christmas story with love, and feelings behind it. I can't wait for the day that we have little grandchildren, and I get to read Christmas stories to them. What a beautiful thought that is, it brings tears to my eyes, and love to my heart. No, that day is not near right now, but some day. I have a question for all of you! What are some of your favorite Christmas stories? I would love any recommendations.

Christmas is in the air...

2008-12-07T17:10:00.001-08:00

Steve...having fun!

Jake at work

I think we are about there. This weekend Jake, and Steve put our Christmas lights up. Jake is always so good to help with this tradition. I got the majority of the house decorated. I am LOVING it! It feels magical, to have the Christmas decorations up. We will put the tree up tomorrow night for Family Home Evening. I have been focusing on my savior, and the true meaning of Christmas. As I set my nativities up today, my heart was full. How loved, and blessed we all are. The true meaning of Christmas is beautiful.

Photos, and well...

2008-12-06T04:05:00.000-08:00

Thank you bunches! If you haven't see Ashley's blog is is amazing. She has so much talent! www.believeittoseeit.blogspot.com

Yesterday afternoon was our annual Christmas photo shoot. All I can say is..Boy oh Boy oh Boy! That was three oh boys, right? Thank goodness Steve was on good behavior! :) My darling sweet cousin is seriously the best, and most creative photographer I know. She also has the patience of a saint. My boys have a tradition of giving me a hard time while taking family photos. Well, each year, I brace myself for this wonderful family, memory making, bonding, special time! :) To sum it up, they were on a roll yesterday. I'm never quite sure which one starts this tradition, or maybe it is a conspiracy against...MOM. This morning as I type this, I do so with a sigh of relief! One more year down! :) They started discussing, next years photo shoot with Ashley. In my mind I was thinking... thanks for the gentle warning. I love my three boys to pieces! They are all darling. I am beginning to think they do this in a weird odd way, to let me know one thing. They are MY boys, and they LOVE me. Ashley, at least we have 12 more months before we have the trio mumbling their tune. :)

Christmas is on it's way!

2008-12-05T05:12:00.000-08:00

These are on www.Marthastewart.com I think they are darling!

Only 19 days until Christmas!!! When I read this, this morning, my heart skipped a beat. This weekend we will get much done around here. The Christmas decorations, tree, lights, etc. will come down from the attic. The lights will be hung on the house, the tree will be decorated, and I can't wait! This is such a magical time of the year! We usually have the decorating done by now. We have been out of town the past 2 weekends, and I think it threw me off schedule. Is anyone else decorating this weekend? Are you already done, and enjoying it? Either way, I hope we all take the time to feel the magic of Christmas! :)

Thanksgiving...

2008-12-02T05:11:00.000-08:00

Time for yummy food!

Nate, Ben, Sarah, and Steve with Nanny.

Our family

We had such a nice day on Thanksgiving. We spent the first half of the day with my Mom, Lash, Julie, and Christopher. We ate yummy food, and even played a game! We later headed over to Paradise Valley to eat dinner with Steve's family. It was so fun to see everyone! I have been trouble up loading my pictures. I will post pictures of our Thanksgiving with my family, on my next post.

Cabin...

2008-11-30T12:00:00.000-08:00

Snow outside of Heber about 15 miles. We didn't have any snow though.

Mollie enjoyed being snuggled up in the cabin.

We headed up to the cabin Friday morning. I have Thanksgiving I want to post about. I will get to it tonight or tomorrow. Right now I need to start some laundry. It was nice to get to the cabin. We really took it easy. Read a little, watched Christmas movies, ate a little, etc.

Now it is time to get in high gear for Christmas!!! What a beautiful time of the year.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-26T18:54:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

Steve, and Sarah preparing the turkeys.

Apple crisp...Yum!

2008-11-25T04:55:00.001-08:00

Apple Crisp

1 can of apple pie filling (or make your own!)
3/4 C brown sugar
1/2 C flour
1 t Cinnamon
1/3 C melted butter
1/2 C oatmeal

Spread apples in a pan, blend remaining ingredients until crumbly. Sprinkle over apples and bake for 30 minutes at 350. (It's yum if you double the topping too!)

created

Here is a recipe I stumbled upon on someone else's blog. If it was yours, thank you!!! This is my new favorite recipe. I have made it 4 times in the past 2 weeks. We have taken it to a ward dinner, on our trip, and to some friends in our ward. You can use apple or peach pie filling from the store. You also can make your own. Here you go...I just have to share.

The dunes, and Twilight...

2008-11-23T20:00:00.000-08:00

We are back home, and have the sand dusted off of us! We headed to the dunes in Glamis California, on Thursday. Steve, and my boys have been going for about 4-5 years. For some reason I thought it just wasn't my thing. They usually go about 4-6 times a year. Well, I finally mustered up the gumption to go. I am SO happy I did! Sarah, and I had a blast! We now are wondering why we didn't go sooner. It was so nice to spend time with Steve, Ben, Nate, Jake, and Sarah. We needed that time away as a family. We also went with the Bennett's in our ward. They are tons of fun! Later we were joined with about 5 or more other families. We got home last night around 7:00. We changed clothes, and headed to see the movie Twilight. It was so good! I now am a Twilight fan! Erin joined us. It wa so fun to see her, and catch up. Thank you Erin, for watching the girls...Mollie, and Missie. Our Cockapoo, and Golden Retriever. Well, I am off to finish up the American Music Awards. I hope everyone had a wonderful sabbath. I taught a lesson today on Change. It was a great lesson for the the Beehives. 12-13 year old girls at church. I feel so blessed to spend time with them each week.

ohhh the laundry! :)

2008-11-19T06:00:00.000-08:00

Have I mentioned before I really, and I mean r-e-a-l-l-y don't care for laundry. In the past years, I have really tried to take a liking to these dirty clothes, that show up in my laundry room daily. No such luck. The past few days. guess what I have been doing? Laundry! I am just about all caught up. I have a question. Has anyone heard of a company that sells disposable clothing? :) If so, they have a buyer! :) Have a happy Wednesday! :)

Ohy so cute! 3 boys, and a girl...

2008-11-17T15:25:00.000-08:00

So cute! LJinks shop from Etsy. I have never met her, but love her work!

I found this http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5843485shop about 3 weeks ago. I fell in love with the artists work. I wanted a picture of three boys, and a girl. Perfect for my family! I received a e-mail yesterday that notified me that she now is carrying just what I wanted. I am headed over to her etsy shop now. I just had to share my news. I think some of you will like this little shop too. :)

Blessings on the sabbath...

2008-11-16T06:31:00.001-08:00

I feel blessed to be able to attend church each Sunday with my family. With the world ever changing, it always feels so good to walk into our church building. The one thing that isn't uncertain in today's world, are my beliefs. For this I feel so blessed.

Ta Da!

2008-11-11T14:19:00.000-08:00

I finally cleaned out the kitchen pantry! It feels so good to be able to see everything clearly. Between cereal boxes, cookies, applesauce, etc. the shelves were getting a little messy. Well, actually...a lot messy! :) I even put my sugar, and flour in containers. This will be so much easier, and less of a mess. I just have to show off my hard work.

Saturday...

2008-11-08T07:10:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning, as the sun was shining thru the kitchen, I was lucky enough to snap these pictures.

We just got back from helping clean our church building. We were there at 7:00. It felt good to get up, and at em, and serve. This morning I am headed to a holiday boutique. I LOVE boutiques. There is something about them, that always puts me in the holiday spirit! This afternoon I have put on my agenda, to clean out the kitchen pantry. Fun Fun! :) I am trying to think positive. What are your Saturday plans? What ever they may be, have a super Saturday!

Cooking with Sarah...

2008-11-07T05:16:00.000-08:00

Dip cookies in white chocolate.

Us

These cookies were so fun to make.Amy who is on my sidebar, posted the idea on her cute blog. I made a lot of them one afternoon last week. I made up some plates, to take to some neighbors, a few days before Halloween. They are easy, yummy, and oh so cute. I am planning on making some around Christmas. Instead of ghosts, they will be little snowman.

I am trying to teach Sarah different things in the kitchen. We had a free afternoon on Tuesday, so we decided to make some more ghosts. It was a fun afternoon. I love the feeling I get when Sarah, and I are in the kitchen working side by side.

Thank you Steve...

2008-11-05T16:57:00.000-08:00

He is so precise! He makes sure every flower is the exact distance from the next. Thanks Steve!

Have I ever mentioned how wonderful my sweet husband is?

I voted...

2008-11-04T12:26:00.001-08:00

It sure felt good to get out and vote! It is great to be an American!

Vote 2008...

2008-11-04T06:11:00.001-08:00

This morning, we are getting ready to go vote! The boys will be going wit us. It is kind of neat, that they all are old enough to vote! Happy Voting Day!

Halloween 2008...

2008-11-01T07:34:00.000-07:00

Officer Cody, and Kyle

No more pictures, I mean it! :) Steve, and Ben

Sarah, and I

Nate and Mike

Sarah and Kelsie

Hey good looking! Jake

Nate, Mike, Lauren

Lauren, and Nate

Our little princess

Thank you all for such sweet, and encouraging words. They mean so much to me. I read them on, and off thru the day yesterday. When my heart was feeling heavy,they put a smile in my heart..again thank you. When the time is right, I will share more. For now, we still are in a state of shock, pain, and many other emotions that I am not even sure how to label. I do believe that there is a reason for everything. I also believe that Heavenly Father is right here with us. There has been a lot of prayer going on.

On a much happier note...Happy late Halloween! I hope everyone had a booootiful day. Here are some pictures of our night last night. I was so glad that Halloween was yesterday. We have a tradition of hanging out on the porch, and visiting with family, and friends on Halloween. Anyone, and everyone is welcome to stop by, and stay as long as they would like. We had pizza, pop, and of course candy! I have to say some of these kids costumes had me smiling.

troubled water...

2008-10-30T21:09:00.000-07:00

When one of my children is in pain, I have very similar feelings. The past 2 days have been incredibly painful. I have been praying that my Father in Heaven will lead, and direct me. I need to give comfort at a time like this. I wont share much, because it is a private matter, not for a public blog. You never you know, who reads the daily happenings of our group.. I want everyone to know, that I sure do appreciate your friendship, and kindness, that you share with me. Just know that for the next few days, my attention will be on one of the loves of my life.