Today we got some very bad news and we also got some very good news.
Our bad news is that we have lost a dear aunt on Preston's side of the family. The girls and I have taken this esp hard as we were close to her and have had a special bond with this sweet aunt since she joined the Bentley/Baxter family.
Our good news is that we have gained a new family member in the birth of my new neice! Since my brother & his family live far away we are anxiously waiting to see picts of her (which I will be sure to post as soon as we get them) and we are even more looking forward to knowing they will be coming to spend lots of time with us next month.
On this special Thanksgiving Eve the girls and I thought that blogging our thoughts and feelings would help the girls through their grieving process and help us remember all the wonderful things we loved about Aunt Serena. It would also help us to share all the things we are thankful for in knowing this wonderful woman as well as all the things we look forward to in knowing our new neice/cousin.
Here is our list:
1) We are thankful for our knowledge of the gospel and the ressurection and that we know that we will be able to see and be with Aunt Serena again (Kaeli)
2) I am thankful for all of the fun things I had in common with Aunt Serena. We liked alot of the same things (school, horses, favorite foods) and always enjoyed talking and sharing about all the things we both enjoyed. I esp enjoyed all the time we would spend together talking and laughing at all the Bentley family reunions. (ceana)
3) We are thankful to have a new cousin to share things with and do things for. It will be fun to watch her grow and help her learn lots of new things. It will be fun to watch as she grows and develops her own gifts and talents ( our other neice is already a wiz in many areas - which is amazing since she is only FOUR!) (kaeli)
4) We are thankful that Uncle Sean, Aunt Rayna & the girls will be able to come and stay a long time with us (anything longer than overnight is a long time). We are excited to see our new cousin and hopefully we will get the chance to have Rani get to stay extra long with us while Uncle Sean & Aunt Rayna have some special time with just them and the baby. (ceana)
5) I didnt know Aunt Serena very well. I was younger and didnt understand when everyone was sad when we lost our great-grandparents this same time of year. I am now old enough to understand loss and feel grief over the loss of a family member as well as sadness and empathy for other family members who are also grieving who did know Aunt Serena better than I did. (kaeli)
6) I am thankful for the plan of salvation. I am thankful for the knowledge that Heavenly Father has a plan for everything and everyone. That there is a reason for Aunt Serena to go home to Him now. Even though I am sad I can find happiness in this knowledge. (ceana)
7) I am thankful that Aunt Serena chose to come to this Earth. I am thankful that she was part of our family. (Kaeli)
8) I am thankful that I have been able to keep in touch with Aunt Serena through email. One of my favorite things about emailing with her was that we would send "I love you's" back and forth to each other just because. (ceana)
9) I wish that we didnt live so far away and that the funeral wasnt so soon. I would really like to be able to be there to be with the family and to tell Uncle Dick how sorry I am that Aunt Serena is not here anymore and to tell him how much I loved her and how much I am going to miss her. (ceana)
10) I loved that Aunt Serena "adopted" me and she and Uncle Dick were my other set of grandparents. They always greeted me with hugs and smiles and that was always very special to me and it will always be a special memory of the way Aunt Serena always was - full of sunshine, smiles and hugs (ceana/rory)
I think this has been a very helpful thing for the girls. At the end of our list I find the girls smiling and laughing about the good thoughts and memories. I am sure there will be more tears in the coming days, but it is nice to know that this has been helpful to them (and to me) as they have processed both the happy and the sad news they have received today.
What a wonderful blessing blogging has become to our family - it has given us the gift and ability to pour out our hearts, thoughts, and feelings and to be able to record those things for ourselves and to share with others. Our journaling has been more productive and enjoyable than ever before in our lives. Technology is a true gift to be thankful for.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
PHOTOGRAPHY LESSONS
OK, here is another one pretty much just for me - feel free to peruse or skip
I did a family shoot yesterday that I am not feeling so hot about - mostly because of all the major mistakes I made. These are things that I have learned and if I get the opportunity to do another photo session I will hopefully be able to apply.
1) Stand up for myself, my time & work and ask for my fee BEFORE I do a shoot. I will not release the pict CD until my fee is paid
2) Make sure the location area is free of vehicles, photo equipment, etc.
3) Spend time on tweaks before they are ordered only if I LOVE them and would post them or add them to my portfolio
4) Be sure to let clients know BEFORE a shoot that my intent is to post a "sneak peek" on my photo blog
5) Be willing to listen to ideas, suggestions and critiques without folding in on myself and giving up or making myself feel like a complete failure
6) Be willing to show gratitude in accepting & applying these ideas and critiques before I end up hurting others that are trying their best to help - esp when it is my sweetheart who has given up all his work time to help me so I dont explode from being overwhelmed.
7) Be very clear about what the client is expecting or wanting. Be sure to ask before a shoot and just before starting picts to be sure to capture what the client wants as well as leaving time for creative shots and pict angles
8) Create some kind of client package that will include a feedback sheet, order form, business card, receipt, and pict CD.
9) Make sure and give myself sufficient time to process and get picts to a client. A week at most, and shorter time only at special request. Do not allow myself to be pressured by a client - my time is as valuable and important as theirs - this is a side adventure, my family is my life.
10) Dont attempt to play with new software, technology, etc without sufficient time to learn about it before offering it to a client or applying it to business end of things.
I am sure there will be more things I think of to add to this list. It seems the more I learn about photography the more I learn I DONT know. The way I feel at the moment I dont ever want to pick up my camera again - and yet I know I will - I have to - I already have shoots scheduled for Saturday.
At this point I am going to pretty much assume this session has been a scratch and a hard bunch of lessons to learn. I have learned a lot, even if it is all the things NOT to do next time. If there is a next time. My main goal with photography is to still share this gift to bring happiness to others, but it will be nice if that gift will someday be returned in allowing me to somehow contribute something positive to our household and family. Only time will tell.
I did a family shoot yesterday that I am not feeling so hot about - mostly because of all the major mistakes I made. These are things that I have learned and if I get the opportunity to do another photo session I will hopefully be able to apply.
1) Stand up for myself, my time & work and ask for my fee BEFORE I do a shoot. I will not release the pict CD until my fee is paid
2) Make sure the location area is free of vehicles, photo equipment, etc.
3) Spend time on tweaks before they are ordered only if I LOVE them and would post them or add them to my portfolio
4) Be sure to let clients know BEFORE a shoot that my intent is to post a "sneak peek" on my photo blog
5) Be willing to listen to ideas, suggestions and critiques without folding in on myself and giving up or making myself feel like a complete failure
6) Be willing to show gratitude in accepting & applying these ideas and critiques before I end up hurting others that are trying their best to help - esp when it is my sweetheart who has given up all his work time to help me so I dont explode from being overwhelmed.
7) Be very clear about what the client is expecting or wanting. Be sure to ask before a shoot and just before starting picts to be sure to capture what the client wants as well as leaving time for creative shots and pict angles
8) Create some kind of client package that will include a feedback sheet, order form, business card, receipt, and pict CD.
9) Make sure and give myself sufficient time to process and get picts to a client. A week at most, and shorter time only at special request. Do not allow myself to be pressured by a client - my time is as valuable and important as theirs - this is a side adventure, my family is my life.
10) Dont attempt to play with new software, technology, etc without sufficient time to learn about it before offering it to a client or applying it to business end of things.
I am sure there will be more things I think of to add to this list. It seems the more I learn about photography the more I learn I DONT know. The way I feel at the moment I dont ever want to pick up my camera again - and yet I know I will - I have to - I already have shoots scheduled for Saturday.
At this point I am going to pretty much assume this session has been a scratch and a hard bunch of lessons to learn. I have learned a lot, even if it is all the things NOT to do next time. If there is a next time. My main goal with photography is to still share this gift to bring happiness to others, but it will be nice if that gift will someday be returned in allowing me to somehow contribute something positive to our household and family. Only time will tell.
Monday, November 24, 2008
SEEING DOUBLE
Ke has discovered a "friend" in the mirror. It was so funny to watch her play and laugh at herself. It was fun to capture her play as I caught to of her personality traits that usually only we get to see at home -
1) "petting" things - she will take her hand and stroke up and down on just about anything - I think she is going to be our texture girl. She was doing this to the mirror too - in the pict it looks like she is giving herself a "high 5"
2) forehead "loves" - she will just lean herr forehead against ours, nose-to-nose, and either look into our eyes or close her eyes. She does this to everyone in our family, kind of like it is her special way to say "love you". It was fun to watch her do it to herself in the mirror.
It is so fun to watch her as she changes and grows every day. She is sitting up really solid by herself now and only seems to fall over if she is really tired. She loves playing with her toys - esp ones that are noisy. She has a darling little squeaky giggle (if I can get her to do it for the camera I will post it soon) and Colton has figured out how to play "peek a boo" with her and get her to laugh (except when I get the camera out to record it). All of the kids are really starting to enjoy her more since she is really able to interact more with them. She can be so funny and get the kids laughing pretty hard.
She is not nearly as puky as she used to be but with 6 teeth coming in she is VERY slobbery. She is still not really very interested in eating "real" food but we keep trying. Thanksgiving should be a good time to try lots of new things since there are always lots of soft foods.
She is our little cutie and she is so fun. Dont know what we would ever do without her!
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1) "petting" things - she will take her hand and stroke up and down on just about anything - I think she is going to be our texture girl. She was doing this to the mirror too - in the pict it looks like she is giving herself a "high 5"
2) forehead "loves" - she will just lean herr forehead against ours, nose-to-nose, and either look into our eyes or close her eyes. She does this to everyone in our family, kind of like it is her special way to say "love you". It was fun to watch her do it to herself in the mirror.
It is so fun to watch her as she changes and grows every day. She is sitting up really solid by herself now and only seems to fall over if she is really tired. She loves playing with her toys - esp ones that are noisy. She has a darling little squeaky giggle (if I can get her to do it for the camera I will post it soon) and Colton has figured out how to play "peek a boo" with her and get her to laugh (except when I get the camera out to record it). All of the kids are really starting to enjoy her more since she is really able to interact more with them. She can be so funny and get the kids laughing pretty hard.
She is not nearly as puky as she used to be but with 6 teeth coming in she is VERY slobbery. She is still not really very interested in eating "real" food but we keep trying. Thanksgiving should be a good time to try lots of new things since there are always lots of soft foods.
She is our little cutie and she is so fun. Dont know what we would ever do without her!
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Friday, November 21, 2008
FEELING HELPLESS UPDATE
I have had many sweet comments made after my last post. I thought I would at least send an update on some stuff.
1) The young woman who was missing has returned home on her own. There is a lot in front of her and her family, but for now she is home, and that will allow for help and healing for all of them
2) The two boys were recovered from the river. Lots of blessings fell into place to allow specialized divers to be able to find them. Though they are gone, and things are going to be very hard, there will be closure for their family and friends and the community
3) My friend contacted me and was able to share with me some of her challenges. She is such a sweetheart and I am so glad that she is my friend. My thoughts and prayers will continue to be with her.
4) The weather is still as icky as ever - we have even added heavy clouds and rain recently. The gray sky is a constant challenge and I have to fight every minute to not just go straight to bed and stay there. Having my girls home with me for 10 days though will be a big help - we have projects planned to work on more Christmas stuff. Plus it will be nice to have them here to just give some extra help which might allow me to catch up on some much needed sleep.
5) Weight stuff is still a struggle. Other family members will be thrilled to know that I have gained back 2/3 of the miniscule amount that I have been able to lose in the last 3 weeks....giving in to emotional eating was most of that. I am really struggling with finding the desire to continue when progress is so small or non-existent. Eating in general has become a very difficult thing at our house - kiddos are protesting the changes in big ways or refusing to eat all together. We didnt have extra bad habits before - but trying to make changes has been harder for all of us than expected.
We are working hard on all those things to help us keep "holding on". The girls have done esp well with their scriptures this week - our family contest seems to be making good progress. We are still working with the little boys but they are doing well for the most part to participate in family prayer and scripture study. We will just keep doing our best and hopefully, for now, it is enough.
1) The young woman who was missing has returned home on her own. There is a lot in front of her and her family, but for now she is home, and that will allow for help and healing for all of them
2) The two boys were recovered from the river. Lots of blessings fell into place to allow specialized divers to be able to find them. Though they are gone, and things are going to be very hard, there will be closure for their family and friends and the community
3) My friend contacted me and was able to share with me some of her challenges. She is such a sweetheart and I am so glad that she is my friend. My thoughts and prayers will continue to be with her.
4) The weather is still as icky as ever - we have even added heavy clouds and rain recently. The gray sky is a constant challenge and I have to fight every minute to not just go straight to bed and stay there. Having my girls home with me for 10 days though will be a big help - we have projects planned to work on more Christmas stuff. Plus it will be nice to have them here to just give some extra help which might allow me to catch up on some much needed sleep.
5) Weight stuff is still a struggle. Other family members will be thrilled to know that I have gained back 2/3 of the miniscule amount that I have been able to lose in the last 3 weeks....giving in to emotional eating was most of that. I am really struggling with finding the desire to continue when progress is so small or non-existent. Eating in general has become a very difficult thing at our house - kiddos are protesting the changes in big ways or refusing to eat all together. We didnt have extra bad habits before - but trying to make changes has been harder for all of us than expected.
We are working hard on all those things to help us keep "holding on". The girls have done esp well with their scriptures this week - our family contest seems to be making good progress. We are still working with the little boys but they are doing well for the most part to participate in family prayer and scripture study. We will just keep doing our best and hopefully, for now, it is enough.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
FEELING HELPLESS
OK, this is prob just a "vent " blog for myself. Feel free to come along or not. Be forewarned...:)
Do you ever have those days that you feel so helpless against the ills of the world that you arent sure what to do or if what you do even matters.
This last week/weekend has really whammied my life with the ills and hurt the world has to throw at us.
In just the last 48 hours I have found out about a young woman who is missing from her family and is most likely in a very dangerous situation. What hurts my heart the most for her family is knowing she left of her own will and choice. I also found out about 2 brothers who have gone missing and may be lost to our local river. I have talked with a man on our CERT team who lost his sweet wife over the weekend. I have talked with another woman on our CERT team who is losing her husband to divorce.
I have a dear, sweet friend who I think is very sick but cant tell anyone yet what is happening. She is trying her best, with the help of her darling children and amazing husband, to come to a point where she is able to accept this new and overwhelming challenge in her life before she is ready to let anyone else know what that challenge is.
I think about her, pray for her, worry about her, wish that I were closer to be able to help her with all the little things that become big things when life is challenging.
The gray weather, clouds, & heavy fog weigh heavily on me these days. Winter is here and I sometimes wish I could hybernate like animals do and go to bed and not come out until it is warm and sunny again. My mind, will and smallest desires dont want to comply with all that is before me every day to have to accomplish. On my extra bad days I dont ever make it out of my PJ's or into a shower - no matter where I need to be. More often than not I have been even dropping the boys off to school still not dressed in any way but the way I climbed out of bed.
I agreed to participate in a family contest for "biggest loser" in which I am gaining instead of losing. My one argument up front was that last time it took a YEAR to get baby weight off - and we only have a little over 3 months. I am trying to do everything I can and if there is any difference at all it is only in ounces. Losing the contest will be a big ouch to the bank acct as there is much at stake with all that each family member contributed to the "pot". It is discouraging to be trying so hard and seeing little or no progress.
My photography has taken off and become very overwhelming at the same time. I have had tons of people approach me for picts. I have done some amazing work through great blessings. Through the encouragement of others I have decided to charge for my work and offer special holiday picts in a portrait setting vs a 5 minute "mall" experience. In the process I think I have bungled more than not - trying to get flyers out in the wrong venue (church) - something I am trying to undo and promise to never do again. I have found the little that I do know about my camera and photography is nothing to the amount of things I DONT know about my camera and photography. So much that is is very overwhelming at times.
I got the amazing opportunity to possibly get my 1st corporate shoot only to have probably lost it before I ever got the chance because we are still working out the "kinks" in the business end of things. My holiday special photo offer so far has bombed completely and the only shoots I have scheduled are for a couple that I am going to do for free for friends and family who are going to let me play and practice some new ideas.
For all of this sadness, frustration and challenging circumstances I know I have much to be grateful for. Health, safety, preston's job, blessings that come with using a gift to serve others, a warm, safe home, the ability to keep working on gospel principles, having the ability to fill the physical needs of our family, the list can go on and on.
Maybe the answers to all of these challenges and hurt is in the thoughts that came to me as I was driving through the fog yesterday.
As I was driving Kels down to her dr appt the fog was very thick and dense. I could only see a car length in any direction. My thoughts strayed to Lehi's dream about the Tree of Life. The way to the tree was blocked by great mists of darkness. I felt engulfed in those mists yesterday - knowing that if I were to drive or walk in any direction into "wilderness" that I would be very lost and in very big trouble - just like what happened to those in Lehi's dream.
The only true path to the tree was by holding on to the iron rod. If people let go for any reason they were most likely lost from the true path to peace, safety and eternal blessings. I thought about that as I drove, not being able to see in front of me or around me much at all. The white line painted on the side of the road was all I had to keep me safe and going in the right direction to reach my desired destination. My faith and trust was in that line - knowing if I stayed on the road that I would make it to where I needed to be. It seems silly to think about faith in a painted line, or that the sun will rise every morning, or that the rain and cold will turn into a warm and sunny spring. These are things we just take for granted that will just happen. We never doubt for a moment that they wont happen.
In today's world with its ever growing ills and challenges and as we watch wicked men become more bold and gain more power our need to "hold to the rod" is even more important. More often than not this statement is changing - we are not asked to just hold on anymore - but we are admonished to hold on tightly with both hand and all our strength.
How do we continue to hold on? We continue to try hard every day to do those things we know are right and that will bless our families - read and study the scriptures, family & personal prayer, FHE, attending meetings and the temple if we are able, we continue to build our food storage and emergency supplies, we try to save $, even if it is a little bit, we keep working to get out of debt, we never fail in following the prophet and apostles, we strive to be worthy of the promptings of the spirit and make sure we heed his counsel and direction when it comes.
These are the small and simple things of the gospel. Sometimes they seem like they are so overwhelming that we will never get to them all. All we are asked to do is try our very best and the rest will fall into place. By doing our best every day - whether that is getting everything done, or one small thing done, we are moving forward. We are trying to strengthen our testimonies and teach our children what is most important. One small step forward is one step in the right direction - moving us towards eternal goals.
One small step forward will be what helps us get through these trying times and all that the world may try to throw at us. Faith that we will be blessed for our efforts, and be ever grateful for those blessings, will also help see us through. Having friends, family, children, & spouses to stand by us, and us to stand by them, will give all of us the strength to get through one more minute, or hour, or day. Knowing that we are never alone, even in our darkest hour, can bring even a small glimmer of light into our hearts and our lives that will help us to endure all that may be thrown at us.
It is amazing to me that these "epiphanies" can be set off by the smallest thing. Mine was set off by driving through the fog. The challenge for me is believing all the things that I have written down - trying to get my brain to ignore all the voices that still tell me that these things work for everyone else but me, trying to get beyond all the pain and darkness of my past to try and find some light for the present and future. There are moments when I know all of these things are impossible to achieve and then other smaller moments when I think things are starting to sink in. Even if my brain doesnt let me believe it for myself - it does believe it for my children - and as long as I am striving to teach them all of these things I can know it will be true for them. And for now - as we were recently told in conference - I dont need to know everything - but for now, I know enough.
Do you ever have those days that you feel so helpless against the ills of the world that you arent sure what to do or if what you do even matters.
This last week/weekend has really whammied my life with the ills and hurt the world has to throw at us.
In just the last 48 hours I have found out about a young woman who is missing from her family and is most likely in a very dangerous situation. What hurts my heart the most for her family is knowing she left of her own will and choice. I also found out about 2 brothers who have gone missing and may be lost to our local river. I have talked with a man on our CERT team who lost his sweet wife over the weekend. I have talked with another woman on our CERT team who is losing her husband to divorce.
I have a dear, sweet friend who I think is very sick but cant tell anyone yet what is happening. She is trying her best, with the help of her darling children and amazing husband, to come to a point where she is able to accept this new and overwhelming challenge in her life before she is ready to let anyone else know what that challenge is.
I think about her, pray for her, worry about her, wish that I were closer to be able to help her with all the little things that become big things when life is challenging.
The gray weather, clouds, & heavy fog weigh heavily on me these days. Winter is here and I sometimes wish I could hybernate like animals do and go to bed and not come out until it is warm and sunny again. My mind, will and smallest desires dont want to comply with all that is before me every day to have to accomplish. On my extra bad days I dont ever make it out of my PJ's or into a shower - no matter where I need to be. More often than not I have been even dropping the boys off to school still not dressed in any way but the way I climbed out of bed.
I agreed to participate in a family contest for "biggest loser" in which I am gaining instead of losing. My one argument up front was that last time it took a YEAR to get baby weight off - and we only have a little over 3 months. I am trying to do everything I can and if there is any difference at all it is only in ounces. Losing the contest will be a big ouch to the bank acct as there is much at stake with all that each family member contributed to the "pot". It is discouraging to be trying so hard and seeing little or no progress.
My photography has taken off and become very overwhelming at the same time. I have had tons of people approach me for picts. I have done some amazing work through great blessings. Through the encouragement of others I have decided to charge for my work and offer special holiday picts in a portrait setting vs a 5 minute "mall" experience. In the process I think I have bungled more than not - trying to get flyers out in the wrong venue (church) - something I am trying to undo and promise to never do again. I have found the little that I do know about my camera and photography is nothing to the amount of things I DONT know about my camera and photography. So much that is is very overwhelming at times.
I got the amazing opportunity to possibly get my 1st corporate shoot only to have probably lost it before I ever got the chance because we are still working out the "kinks" in the business end of things. My holiday special photo offer so far has bombed completely and the only shoots I have scheduled are for a couple that I am going to do for free for friends and family who are going to let me play and practice some new ideas.
For all of this sadness, frustration and challenging circumstances I know I have much to be grateful for. Health, safety, preston's job, blessings that come with using a gift to serve others, a warm, safe home, the ability to keep working on gospel principles, having the ability to fill the physical needs of our family, the list can go on and on.
Maybe the answers to all of these challenges and hurt is in the thoughts that came to me as I was driving through the fog yesterday.
As I was driving Kels down to her dr appt the fog was very thick and dense. I could only see a car length in any direction. My thoughts strayed to Lehi's dream about the Tree of Life. The way to the tree was blocked by great mists of darkness. I felt engulfed in those mists yesterday - knowing that if I were to drive or walk in any direction into "wilderness" that I would be very lost and in very big trouble - just like what happened to those in Lehi's dream.
The only true path to the tree was by holding on to the iron rod. If people let go for any reason they were most likely lost from the true path to peace, safety and eternal blessings. I thought about that as I drove, not being able to see in front of me or around me much at all. The white line painted on the side of the road was all I had to keep me safe and going in the right direction to reach my desired destination. My faith and trust was in that line - knowing if I stayed on the road that I would make it to where I needed to be. It seems silly to think about faith in a painted line, or that the sun will rise every morning, or that the rain and cold will turn into a warm and sunny spring. These are things we just take for granted that will just happen. We never doubt for a moment that they wont happen.
In today's world with its ever growing ills and challenges and as we watch wicked men become more bold and gain more power our need to "hold to the rod" is even more important. More often than not this statement is changing - we are not asked to just hold on anymore - but we are admonished to hold on tightly with both hand and all our strength.
How do we continue to hold on? We continue to try hard every day to do those things we know are right and that will bless our families - read and study the scriptures, family & personal prayer, FHE, attending meetings and the temple if we are able, we continue to build our food storage and emergency supplies, we try to save $, even if it is a little bit, we keep working to get out of debt, we never fail in following the prophet and apostles, we strive to be worthy of the promptings of the spirit and make sure we heed his counsel and direction when it comes.
These are the small and simple things of the gospel. Sometimes they seem like they are so overwhelming that we will never get to them all. All we are asked to do is try our very best and the rest will fall into place. By doing our best every day - whether that is getting everything done, or one small thing done, we are moving forward. We are trying to strengthen our testimonies and teach our children what is most important. One small step forward is one step in the right direction - moving us towards eternal goals.
One small step forward will be what helps us get through these trying times and all that the world may try to throw at us. Faith that we will be blessed for our efforts, and be ever grateful for those blessings, will also help see us through. Having friends, family, children, & spouses to stand by us, and us to stand by them, will give all of us the strength to get through one more minute, or hour, or day. Knowing that we are never alone, even in our darkest hour, can bring even a small glimmer of light into our hearts and our lives that will help us to endure all that may be thrown at us.
It is amazing to me that these "epiphanies" can be set off by the smallest thing. Mine was set off by driving through the fog. The challenge for me is believing all the things that I have written down - trying to get my brain to ignore all the voices that still tell me that these things work for everyone else but me, trying to get beyond all the pain and darkness of my past to try and find some light for the present and future. There are moments when I know all of these things are impossible to achieve and then other smaller moments when I think things are starting to sink in. Even if my brain doesnt let me believe it for myself - it does believe it for my children - and as long as I am striving to teach them all of these things I can know it will be true for them. And for now - as we were recently told in conference - I dont need to know everything - but for now, I know enough.
Monday, November 17, 2008
HERE IS ANOTHER FUN ONE!
I saw that I had been "tagged" again - this is something I am enjoying about blogging - it is journaling, family history, building relationships (even with people you thought you already knew everything about!) and it has just been way fun. Thanks Lish for thinking of me!
A--Attached or Single: Attached (this one could also be an M for married)
B--Best Friend: Preston, Christy & Martha
C--Cake or Pie: Both! Chocolate cake topped with cherries & cream/Strawberry Rubarb pie w/cream that a good friend makes
D--Day of Choice: Saturday
E--Essential Item: My scriptures & my camera - I try not to go very far without either
F--Favorite Color: purple
G--Greatest Accomplishment: joining the church, marrying an amazing man and bringing 6 kiddos into this world
H--Hometown: Sugarhouse & Sandy UT
I--Indulgences: Keebler's SOFT & CHEWY choc chip cookies, snickers bars
J--January or July: July--July - it is my bday and it is our family "have a party every week" month
K--Kids: Ceana, Kaeli, Caiden, Colton, Kylan, Kelsianne, does Preston count? :)
L--Life is incomplete without: having my husband tell me he loves me, colton's goodbye hugs & kisses, seeing kels smile every time she wakes up from a nap, seeing my girls goof around with their dad, watching caiden be so thoughtful and helpful with his brothers
M--Marriage Date: July 21, 1993
N--Number of Siblings: One: Sean
O--Oranges or Apples: Both! I LOVE the baby oranges we get at Christmas and I love a crisp apple any time
P--Phobias or fears: the dark, bridges over water, SNAKES
Q--Quotes: "Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the things that take our breath away" - unknown
R--Reason to Smile: Anytime my kids are being goofballs
S--Season: Spring & Fall - the color changes are just amazing to me
T--Tag 5 Friends: Julie, Brittney, Kim H, Kymberly, Dawn
U--Unknown facts about me: I have never broken any bones or had cavities or braces
V--Very favorite store: I hate shopping, but when we were on vacation we found this WAY fun toy store in Florence, good thing we live far away - I could prob spend lots of money there for my kiddos
W--Worst habit: I still bite my nails
X--X-ray or Ultra Sound: Ultra sound
Y--Your favorite food: most anything that is chocolate, foreign foods, white fish fixed just about any way, pancakes
Zodiac: Cancer
A--Attached or Single: Attached (this one could also be an M for married)
B--Best Friend: Preston, Christy & Martha
C--Cake or Pie: Both! Chocolate cake topped with cherries & cream/Strawberry Rubarb pie w/cream that a good friend makes
D--Day of Choice: Saturday
E--Essential Item: My scriptures & my camera - I try not to go very far without either
F--Favorite Color: purple
G--Greatest Accomplishment: joining the church, marrying an amazing man and bringing 6 kiddos into this world
H--Hometown: Sugarhouse & Sandy UT
I--Indulgences: Keebler's SOFT & CHEWY choc chip cookies, snickers bars
J--January or July: July--July - it is my bday and it is our family "have a party every week" month
K--Kids: Ceana, Kaeli, Caiden, Colton, Kylan, Kelsianne, does Preston count? :)
L--Life is incomplete without: having my husband tell me he loves me, colton's goodbye hugs & kisses, seeing kels smile every time she wakes up from a nap, seeing my girls goof around with their dad, watching caiden be so thoughtful and helpful with his brothers
M--Marriage Date: July 21, 1993
N--Number of Siblings: One: Sean
O--Oranges or Apples: Both! I LOVE the baby oranges we get at Christmas and I love a crisp apple any time
P--Phobias or fears: the dark, bridges over water, SNAKES
Q--Quotes: "Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the things that take our breath away" - unknown
R--Reason to Smile: Anytime my kids are being goofballs
S--Season: Spring & Fall - the color changes are just amazing to me
T--Tag 5 Friends: Julie, Brittney, Kim H, Kymberly, Dawn
U--Unknown facts about me: I have never broken any bones or had cavities or braces
V--Very favorite store: I hate shopping, but when we were on vacation we found this WAY fun toy store in Florence, good thing we live far away - I could prob spend lots of money there for my kiddos
W--Worst habit: I still bite my nails
X--X-ray or Ultra Sound: Ultra sound
Y--Your favorite food: most anything that is chocolate, foreign foods, white fish fixed just about any way, pancakes
Zodiac: Cancer
Sunday, November 16, 2008
HAPPY SINGERS, STRONG TESTIMONIES
There is nothing more wonderful, after having a horrible morning and kiddos being totally at each other, than seeing them work well together and to hear them singing songs of faith & strength.
Some of my kiddos favorite videos are the Living Scriptures Book of Mormon series. We still have them in VHS form, and they are definately starting to show their wear....
How thankful I am for the music CD's that also come with the series. Songs that teach of faith and strength and gospel values.
Tonight I have been listening as Caiden and Kaeli (usually my 2 that fight like cats & dogs) as they have prepared one of their favorite dinners (quick fix pizza) TOGETHER, and listening to them sing a song that teaches them about things they are going to need in these ever changing times when the world is going the wrong direction.
See if you will agree with me that we will need this point of view and this inner strength to see us through...
"Like the sea that never will be moved am I. Like the stars that time will never alter."
"All my trust will be, oh Lord, in thee. In thy love, my faith will never falter."
The rest of the song tells the story of changing times when people of faith are being persecuted and threatened with death for following the prophet and believing in Christ. They are looking for the signs of the Savior's coming. Some are faithful, some waiver in the pressure from the wicked men around them and the knowledge that they could really die, giving in to the fear of men instead of standing fast in their faith in the Lord. The song is a testimony of the people, standing together in faith, following the prophet, believing the Savior WILL come even knowing that they may have to give their lives for believing so.
In the end, the sign of his coming did happen, the wicked were destroyed, those who waivered were welcomed back, all testimonies were strengthened. The Savior did come into this world.
Isnt it so amazing and wonderful that the scriptures were written and the records were kept, not for the people of ancient America, but for US. The scriptures become more alive every day as I watch the world continue to repeat itself and all the signs and wonders and the prophesies be fulfilled. It is a fearful and a fantastic time to live. If we can study and heed the teachings of the prohpets, the scriptures, and the Savior how great can be our joy and peace in these perilous and ever changing times.
I know we are striving to do better each day. We are trying to be good examples to our children and to others around us. We are striving to do those things to help our family - studying the scriptures, saying prayers, holding FHE, attending the temple, studying the words of the prophet and apostles. We are working on increasing our food and water storage. We are working on teaching our children to be strong and to stand fast no matter where they are. We are encouraging them use their voices to express faith in upholding gospel standards, no matter where they are or who they are with. We are in awe of their strength and faith as we watch them share gospel principles with friends. We try to find those teaching moments when they come home with concerns or difficult experiences from school or with peers.
We are by no means perfect at any of these things. But we are striving to be. Hearing my kiddos singing songs of faith and choosing to watch movies that teach about the scriptures and gospel principles tells me we are on the right road. We dont know everything, or do everything right all the time (seems mostly never of the time), but for today, what we are doing is enough. Hearing their sweet voices and their testimonies in song tells me so.
Some of my kiddos favorite videos are the Living Scriptures Book of Mormon series. We still have them in VHS form, and they are definately starting to show their wear....
How thankful I am for the music CD's that also come with the series. Songs that teach of faith and strength and gospel values.
Tonight I have been listening as Caiden and Kaeli (usually my 2 that fight like cats & dogs) as they have prepared one of their favorite dinners (quick fix pizza) TOGETHER, and listening to them sing a song that teaches them about things they are going to need in these ever changing times when the world is going the wrong direction.
See if you will agree with me that we will need this point of view and this inner strength to see us through...
"Like the sea that never will be moved am I. Like the stars that time will never alter."
"All my trust will be, oh Lord, in thee. In thy love, my faith will never falter."
The rest of the song tells the story of changing times when people of faith are being persecuted and threatened with death for following the prophet and believing in Christ. They are looking for the signs of the Savior's coming. Some are faithful, some waiver in the pressure from the wicked men around them and the knowledge that they could really die, giving in to the fear of men instead of standing fast in their faith in the Lord. The song is a testimony of the people, standing together in faith, following the prophet, believing the Savior WILL come even knowing that they may have to give their lives for believing so.
In the end, the sign of his coming did happen, the wicked were destroyed, those who waivered were welcomed back, all testimonies were strengthened. The Savior did come into this world.
Isnt it so amazing and wonderful that the scriptures were written and the records were kept, not for the people of ancient America, but for US. The scriptures become more alive every day as I watch the world continue to repeat itself and all the signs and wonders and the prophesies be fulfilled. It is a fearful and a fantastic time to live. If we can study and heed the teachings of the prohpets, the scriptures, and the Savior how great can be our joy and peace in these perilous and ever changing times.
I know we are striving to do better each day. We are trying to be good examples to our children and to others around us. We are striving to do those things to help our family - studying the scriptures, saying prayers, holding FHE, attending the temple, studying the words of the prophet and apostles. We are working on increasing our food and water storage. We are working on teaching our children to be strong and to stand fast no matter where they are. We are encouraging them use their voices to express faith in upholding gospel standards, no matter where they are or who they are with. We are in awe of their strength and faith as we watch them share gospel principles with friends. We try to find those teaching moments when they come home with concerns or difficult experiences from school or with peers.
We are by no means perfect at any of these things. But we are striving to be. Hearing my kiddos singing songs of faith and choosing to watch movies that teach about the scriptures and gospel principles tells me we are on the right road. We dont know everything, or do everything right all the time (seems mostly never of the time), but for today, what we are doing is enough. Hearing their sweet voices and their testimonies in song tells me so.
Friday, November 14, 2008
THINGS I LOVE ABOUT MY KIDS
As always, Julie continues to be an amazing inspiration - in so many ways! She recently posted on her blog a birthday tribute to her oldest daughter. She wrote as many things about Q as how old she is (15 "whys for turning 15). My oldest daughter is just a year younger than Q - also a teenager. Sometimes I think that says it all - she is a teenager - and there is alot for both of us to learn.
After a recent meltdown (from all the kids AND me) and a long letter from my daughter I thought that I don't need the reason of a birthday to let my kiddos know how much I love them and what I love about them. So here is my tribute to my kiddos - 1 reason for every year of their age.
Ce -
1- she always strives to do her best no matter what she is doing
2- she loves to serve others, esp her siblings and parents
3- she is very tender hearted. She can empathize with others and is always there to help out
4- she is a friend to everyone around her
5- she is a great example of what a missionary should be. She has made a goal and a savings account to prepare for serving a mission. She is well on her way as she continues to share her knowledge and testiomony with others around her
6-she is awesome at baking. She can take any recipe and make it even better than I can
7- she is a great big sister and takes time to play and help her brothers and sister
8- she can see what needs to be done and goes out and does it - usually without being asked
9- she still loves to hug her mom & dad and say "love you" - something I hope she will always keep
10- she is an amazing student. she always works really hard enjoys learning new things
11- she takes after her dad in just about every way - it is fun to see them chatting or laughing together and sharing special moments
12- she takes great picts. she is becoming quite the photographer herself - and with the camera I can never get to work right for me
13- she is forgiving - she doesnt stay mad or hold grudges - esp with her ever struggling mom
14- (this is one to grow on as she will be a big 14 in just a couple of months) she is kind and thoughtful to others around her. She tries hard to think about others first before she acts (or reacts) and is always willing to say "sorry" if she knows she is wrong or has hurt someone by her words or actions.
She is my oldest - and therefore usually my "ginuea pig". I seem to make all my mistakes worst with her and yet she continues to be my example of how I want to be. She is my angel and I know I would be lost without her
Ka -
1) She loves to laugh. I often find myself smiling as I listen to her with her brothers or her dad as they goof around together
2) She is a great big sister. She is constantly willing to help her brothers with anything they need
3) She is an awesome cook. I know that if I am not feeling well, or just because she wants to, I can completely turn the kitchen over to her and she can fix just about any meal we love to eat
4) She still likes to snuggle - whether it is having her little brother or sister on her lap, or herself plopped next to her dad, she still loves to be close to others
5) She loves to sing - everywhere and anywhere. It is an indication that she is happy. She also loves singing with others - in church choir, school choir, or singing silly songs with her brothers or sister. Singing usually leads to laughing and goofing too which is fun for me to hear and know that she is happy and enjoying being part of our family
6) She is awesome at studying her scriptures - and remembering and sharing what she has read. She has been a great example to me as I watch her take time for her scriptures no matter where we are or how late at night it is.
7) She is a wonderful student. She works hard to keep her grades up and puts everything she has into projects and assignments
8) She is a wonderful artist - though she doesnt think so - it has been something she has always liked to do and she is getting really good as replicating drawings for assingments or drawing just for fun. She loves playing with colors and giving her works of art to others
9) She is a good example to others as she stands strong in the gospel. As the world changes it seems she watches most of her friends change with it. Often are the times she comes to me because of peers' behaviors or choices. Often are the teaching moments when we talk about the gospel and how blessed we are to have it in our lives.
10) Her eyes are the exact same color of her hair. It is striking as her hair is a deep auburn color. Her eyes shine when she is happy, cloud when she is sad or ill, her eyes reflect who she is and how she is feeling. They are amazing to look at as they glow on her sweet face.
11) She loves to play & read with her younger siblings. Often I have heard her laughing, playing, goofing with them. She sings and acts silly just to get them to laugh too. She shares her joy with them and it brings them (and me) joy too. She reads and does all the voices and inflections to bring the stories alive for the little boys. They love it when she can take time to spend with them.
She is my 2nd daughter (she used to be the youngest) and it amazes me that she is so completely different from her older sister. She has brought so much sunshine and fun to our family. I know we would be missing the great joys in life if we didnt have her as part of our family. We are so thankful that she is.
Ca-
1) He is very sweet and caring to his younger brothers - esp Ky. He has helped many times to get the boys a story and tuck them all in bed.
2) He is very enthusiastic. He gets excited about lots of things - esp school which is a big relief to me this year
3) He is a very good reader. He loves to read now that he can do it on his own. He is so good about coming home and doing his reading homework right away. He esp loves books about odd creatures or adventure stories
4) He likes to serve with his dad. Several times Preston hasnt had a HT partner or has taken Caiden with him on different service projects. Caiden is always excited and ready to go. He loves to help others, esp with his dad
5) He is a great eater. I never thought I would get to say that - he has been my kiddo to fight over food, esp dinner. He has been really great to try new foods in the last little while and I think he has been as surprised as I have been that he has found he likes so many new things
6) He likes pancakes - and to help make them. We have found there are several foods that are a "must have" and "do have" very often. Pancakes are one of them. Caiden is getting really good at being a big helper to make them.
7) He is a good student. I have had the opportunity to talk with Caiden's teacher this year and hear how wonderfully he is doing in class. He has even been selected as Student of the Month and has been invited to an awards ceremony next week at school. I am so thrilled that he is finally loving school and doing so well. It is great to know he is so happy and excited about learning and that he tries so hard to do his best at school.
8) He has a spunky personality. He has always been nicknamed our "little leprechaun" because he has the personality to go with his copper colored hair and green eyes. He likes to laugh and play and he often has a contagious laughter that makes everyone laugh with him.
Caiden is a really great kiddo. Being my oldest son, there are lots of things that I feel like I do for the 1st time with him - he is so different than the girls. He & I struggle at times, but we also have tons of fun together. I am so glad that he is in our family.
Co -
1) He is a great student. He has surprised us all this year by doing so amazingly well in school and with his peers. He loves to be there and he is learning a lot.
2) He loves simple things - frozen berries, reading a story, making a tent out of the coffee table. He is my example of how to enjoy the simple things in life.
3) He is an eating machine. It makes me laugh that I feed him and feed him just to have him tell me he is hungry a few minutes later! It is fun that he asks for healthy things to eat. His new favorite snack is frozen berries.
4) He is learning and growing all the time. There was once a time when we were told by drs that he would be delayed in lots of things, and there were things he may never do. He has proved everyone wrong by doing all sorts of things. He is learning to be more independent and trying new things at home and at school. It is fun for me to watch him as he has learned how to get dressed and get shoes on - things he has really struggled with. As he grows he continues to grow and change and it is wonderful.
5) He reminds me of the importance of gospel principles. His new favorite thing is to ask - every day - "can we do FHE"? Or "we need to read scriptures!" He is excited about these things and looks forward to the time we spend together learning about the gospel. I hope it will always be so.
6) (this is also one to grow on as his bday also isnt far away) I love that he is excited about exercising. He has really taken to one of my exercise videos and he will do it by himself even if I dont. He really gets into it and is getting really good at following along to the different routines. I am glad it has become a good outlet for his energy on the extra rainy days of winter
Colton has been our fragile one for so long. He had a rough start and it has been a long road. He has been the one to help me make big life changes. He has been the one who always needs me. He is getting so big and doing so much on his own now. It is so nice for me that he still asks me to play with him or read to him or do exercises - I know that wont last forever. I am thankful for his sweet spirit in our home and for what a difference he makes to all of us.
Ky -
1) He is a goofball. I am constantly in stitches over his antics, silly faces and teasing ways. This morning was no exception. As I was working in the office he came in to me - just in a diaper and undershirt (he has figured out how to undress himself). A little later I went into the TV to get him and found him watching a movie, sitting on the "empire" (our nickname for our HUGE automan) buck naked all except for colton's oversized pair of Lightning McQueen slippers. It was all I could do to not just bust my guts laughing. He has done this several times recently and I have resorted to putting his clothes on backwards so he cant get them off.
He is also a mischief maker when it comes to that goofball side. Earlier this week we had cookies for dessert. He hadnt finished his dinner and he knew that meant no cookies. A little while after dinner he came in saying cookie and pointing to his mouth. I reminded him he couldnt have a cookie since he hadnt eaten his dinner. He kept repeating and I eventually realized he was trying to tell me he had already eaten one. The girls and I couldnt figure out how he would've gotten one or who had given him one because everyone knows the rules. Just a short time after that we were in the kitchen working on clean up when ceana jumped across the floor fussing at Ky. We figured out how he had gotten the cookie - he was caught red-handed literally doing a chin up on the bartop and had pulled himself up to where the cookies were and was snagging another one when ceana saw him. He is such a little stinker! It was hard not to laugh at his audacity and ingenuity.
He loves to laugh and tease and with his ever growing vocabulary he is getting pretty good at appropriate responses to teasing and joking around. He makes all sorts of silly faces and his laugh is very contagious.
2) He is my car boy. No matter where he goes or what he is doing you can be sure that he always has at least 1 car in hand. He is actually getting pretty good at doing things 1 handed because 1 hand always has a car in it. More often though - it is his arms full of cars, trucks, trains, whatever he can find. The other boys never loved cars really, Ky makes up for that in a big way. It is funny to watch him play or hear him call out to big trucks (macs) or cars or trains when we are driving in the car.
I told a friend earlier today he is an angel and a monster all rolled into one little 2 yr old body. He is a challenge and a joy. He makes me laugh til I have tears running down my face. I dont know what we would ever do without him.
Kels -
1) She is such a happy baby - most of the time. She is a whatever, go-with-the-flow kind of girl. She is getting so big already. I cant believe she is going to be 6 months old. She is laughing and chattering, she is getting her 2 bottom front teeth, she picks up and plays with her toys, she sits all by herself. She loves to be held - and loves to sleep in her swing. She has to be where the action is at all times and lets you know how put out she is if she feels like she has been left all alone.
She has been such a sweet addition to our family. It is hard to realize that she is our last. All of her "firsts" are also our "lasts" - it makes me cherish them even more. Even with our rough days I know we are all so happy that she is here with us now and that she is such a wonderful part of our family
Well, that took a lot longer than I thought - not to think of things, but to type when I am 1/2 asleep:) We are really very blessed to have such wonderful kiddos. They are our joy and I know that I have been very lucky to get to be their mom.
After a recent meltdown (from all the kids AND me) and a long letter from my daughter I thought that I don't need the reason of a birthday to let my kiddos know how much I love them and what I love about them. So here is my tribute to my kiddos - 1 reason for every year of their age.
Ce -
1- she always strives to do her best no matter what she is doing
2- she loves to serve others, esp her siblings and parents
3- she is very tender hearted. She can empathize with others and is always there to help out
4- she is a friend to everyone around her
5- she is a great example of what a missionary should be. She has made a goal and a savings account to prepare for serving a mission. She is well on her way as she continues to share her knowledge and testiomony with others around her
6-she is awesome at baking. She can take any recipe and make it even better than I can
7- she is a great big sister and takes time to play and help her brothers and sister
8- she can see what needs to be done and goes out and does it - usually without being asked
9- she still loves to hug her mom & dad and say "love you" - something I hope she will always keep
10- she is an amazing student. she always works really hard enjoys learning new things
11- she takes after her dad in just about every way - it is fun to see them chatting or laughing together and sharing special moments
12- she takes great picts. she is becoming quite the photographer herself - and with the camera I can never get to work right for me
13- she is forgiving - she doesnt stay mad or hold grudges - esp with her ever struggling mom
14- (this is one to grow on as she will be a big 14 in just a couple of months) she is kind and thoughtful to others around her. She tries hard to think about others first before she acts (or reacts) and is always willing to say "sorry" if she knows she is wrong or has hurt someone by her words or actions.
She is my oldest - and therefore usually my "ginuea pig". I seem to make all my mistakes worst with her and yet she continues to be my example of how I want to be. She is my angel and I know I would be lost without her
Ka -
1) She loves to laugh. I often find myself smiling as I listen to her with her brothers or her dad as they goof around together
2) She is a great big sister. She is constantly willing to help her brothers with anything they need
3) She is an awesome cook. I know that if I am not feeling well, or just because she wants to, I can completely turn the kitchen over to her and she can fix just about any meal we love to eat
4) She still likes to snuggle - whether it is having her little brother or sister on her lap, or herself plopped next to her dad, she still loves to be close to others
5) She loves to sing - everywhere and anywhere. It is an indication that she is happy. She also loves singing with others - in church choir, school choir, or singing silly songs with her brothers or sister. Singing usually leads to laughing and goofing too which is fun for me to hear and know that she is happy and enjoying being part of our family
6) She is awesome at studying her scriptures - and remembering and sharing what she has read. She has been a great example to me as I watch her take time for her scriptures no matter where we are or how late at night it is.
7) She is a wonderful student. She works hard to keep her grades up and puts everything she has into projects and assignments
8) She is a wonderful artist - though she doesnt think so - it has been something she has always liked to do and she is getting really good as replicating drawings for assingments or drawing just for fun. She loves playing with colors and giving her works of art to others
9) She is a good example to others as she stands strong in the gospel. As the world changes it seems she watches most of her friends change with it. Often are the times she comes to me because of peers' behaviors or choices. Often are the teaching moments when we talk about the gospel and how blessed we are to have it in our lives.
10) Her eyes are the exact same color of her hair. It is striking as her hair is a deep auburn color. Her eyes shine when she is happy, cloud when she is sad or ill, her eyes reflect who she is and how she is feeling. They are amazing to look at as they glow on her sweet face.
11) She loves to play & read with her younger siblings. Often I have heard her laughing, playing, goofing with them. She sings and acts silly just to get them to laugh too. She shares her joy with them and it brings them (and me) joy too. She reads and does all the voices and inflections to bring the stories alive for the little boys. They love it when she can take time to spend with them.
She is my 2nd daughter (she used to be the youngest) and it amazes me that she is so completely different from her older sister. She has brought so much sunshine and fun to our family. I know we would be missing the great joys in life if we didnt have her as part of our family. We are so thankful that she is.
Ca-
1) He is very sweet and caring to his younger brothers - esp Ky. He has helped many times to get the boys a story and tuck them all in bed.
2) He is very enthusiastic. He gets excited about lots of things - esp school which is a big relief to me this year
3) He is a very good reader. He loves to read now that he can do it on his own. He is so good about coming home and doing his reading homework right away. He esp loves books about odd creatures or adventure stories
4) He likes to serve with his dad. Several times Preston hasnt had a HT partner or has taken Caiden with him on different service projects. Caiden is always excited and ready to go. He loves to help others, esp with his dad
5) He is a great eater. I never thought I would get to say that - he has been my kiddo to fight over food, esp dinner. He has been really great to try new foods in the last little while and I think he has been as surprised as I have been that he has found he likes so many new things
6) He likes pancakes - and to help make them. We have found there are several foods that are a "must have" and "do have" very often. Pancakes are one of them. Caiden is getting really good at being a big helper to make them.
7) He is a good student. I have had the opportunity to talk with Caiden's teacher this year and hear how wonderfully he is doing in class. He has even been selected as Student of the Month and has been invited to an awards ceremony next week at school. I am so thrilled that he is finally loving school and doing so well. It is great to know he is so happy and excited about learning and that he tries so hard to do his best at school.
8) He has a spunky personality. He has always been nicknamed our "little leprechaun" because he has the personality to go with his copper colored hair and green eyes. He likes to laugh and play and he often has a contagious laughter that makes everyone laugh with him.
Caiden is a really great kiddo. Being my oldest son, there are lots of things that I feel like I do for the 1st time with him - he is so different than the girls. He & I struggle at times, but we also have tons of fun together. I am so glad that he is in our family.
Co -
1) He is a great student. He has surprised us all this year by doing so amazingly well in school and with his peers. He loves to be there and he is learning a lot.
2) He loves simple things - frozen berries, reading a story, making a tent out of the coffee table. He is my example of how to enjoy the simple things in life.
3) He is an eating machine. It makes me laugh that I feed him and feed him just to have him tell me he is hungry a few minutes later! It is fun that he asks for healthy things to eat. His new favorite snack is frozen berries.
4) He is learning and growing all the time. There was once a time when we were told by drs that he would be delayed in lots of things, and there were things he may never do. He has proved everyone wrong by doing all sorts of things. He is learning to be more independent and trying new things at home and at school. It is fun for me to watch him as he has learned how to get dressed and get shoes on - things he has really struggled with. As he grows he continues to grow and change and it is wonderful.
5) He reminds me of the importance of gospel principles. His new favorite thing is to ask - every day - "can we do FHE"? Or "we need to read scriptures!" He is excited about these things and looks forward to the time we spend together learning about the gospel. I hope it will always be so.
6) (this is also one to grow on as his bday also isnt far away) I love that he is excited about exercising. He has really taken to one of my exercise videos and he will do it by himself even if I dont. He really gets into it and is getting really good at following along to the different routines. I am glad it has become a good outlet for his energy on the extra rainy days of winter
Colton has been our fragile one for so long. He had a rough start and it has been a long road. He has been the one to help me make big life changes. He has been the one who always needs me. He is getting so big and doing so much on his own now. It is so nice for me that he still asks me to play with him or read to him or do exercises - I know that wont last forever. I am thankful for his sweet spirit in our home and for what a difference he makes to all of us.
Ky -
1) He is a goofball. I am constantly in stitches over his antics, silly faces and teasing ways. This morning was no exception. As I was working in the office he came in to me - just in a diaper and undershirt (he has figured out how to undress himself). A little later I went into the TV to get him and found him watching a movie, sitting on the "empire" (our nickname for our HUGE automan) buck naked all except for colton's oversized pair of Lightning McQueen slippers. It was all I could do to not just bust my guts laughing. He has done this several times recently and I have resorted to putting his clothes on backwards so he cant get them off.
He is also a mischief maker when it comes to that goofball side. Earlier this week we had cookies for dessert. He hadnt finished his dinner and he knew that meant no cookies. A little while after dinner he came in saying cookie and pointing to his mouth. I reminded him he couldnt have a cookie since he hadnt eaten his dinner. He kept repeating and I eventually realized he was trying to tell me he had already eaten one. The girls and I couldnt figure out how he would've gotten one or who had given him one because everyone knows the rules. Just a short time after that we were in the kitchen working on clean up when ceana jumped across the floor fussing at Ky. We figured out how he had gotten the cookie - he was caught red-handed literally doing a chin up on the bartop and had pulled himself up to where the cookies were and was snagging another one when ceana saw him. He is such a little stinker! It was hard not to laugh at his audacity and ingenuity.
He loves to laugh and tease and with his ever growing vocabulary he is getting pretty good at appropriate responses to teasing and joking around. He makes all sorts of silly faces and his laugh is very contagious.
2) He is my car boy. No matter where he goes or what he is doing you can be sure that he always has at least 1 car in hand. He is actually getting pretty good at doing things 1 handed because 1 hand always has a car in it. More often though - it is his arms full of cars, trucks, trains, whatever he can find. The other boys never loved cars really, Ky makes up for that in a big way. It is funny to watch him play or hear him call out to big trucks (macs) or cars or trains when we are driving in the car.
I told a friend earlier today he is an angel and a monster all rolled into one little 2 yr old body. He is a challenge and a joy. He makes me laugh til I have tears running down my face. I dont know what we would ever do without him.
Kels -
1) She is such a happy baby - most of the time. She is a whatever, go-with-the-flow kind of girl. She is getting so big already. I cant believe she is going to be 6 months old. She is laughing and chattering, she is getting her 2 bottom front teeth, she picks up and plays with her toys, she sits all by herself. She loves to be held - and loves to sleep in her swing. She has to be where the action is at all times and lets you know how put out she is if she feels like she has been left all alone.
She has been such a sweet addition to our family. It is hard to realize that she is our last. All of her "firsts" are also our "lasts" - it makes me cherish them even more. Even with our rough days I know we are all so happy that she is here with us now and that she is such a wonderful part of our family
Well, that took a lot longer than I thought - not to think of things, but to type when I am 1/2 asleep:) We are really very blessed to have such wonderful kiddos. They are our joy and I know that I have been very lucky to get to be their mom.
MY UNSPECTACULAR QUIRKS
A friend always has the most fun "tag, you're it" games on her blog. I have known her for a very long time and through these fun games I learn more fun things about her all the time. So here are the rules -
Here are the rules: "MY UNSPECTACULAR QUIRKS"
1. Link to the person who tagged you (still figuring out how to do this)
2. Mention the rules on your blog
3. Tell 6 unspectacular quirks about you. Tag 6 bloggers by linking to them (or tagging them on your blog)
5. Leave a comment on each of the tagged blogger's blogs letting them know they've been tagged
So I guess it is my turn to "tell all" about my quirks....
1) When I wear socks (which is hardly ever) I have to have the seam completely straight over the ends of my toes. If it moves or wrinkles I have to take my shoe off and start over. I just get around this most of the time by just not wearing socks - ever.
2) When I go to bed I have to straighten and fluff all the blankets and sheets "just so". I can't have any wrinkles or edges and I fold all the covers over on top and smooth everything. Preston always teases me about being his "princess" (princess & the pea) - and it really is true - if there is the slightest wrinkle or something is out of place I dont get comfy or sleep at all until it is "fixed".
3) I kill appliances - specifically vacuums & hand mixers. When I say kill, I mean they go down in flames kind of dead. We have recently replaced the vacuum - again ( I think this last one only lasted a year) and we have given up on buying hand mixers and have gone to the big counter-sized mixer instead (so far it has been safe from my brutality)
4) When I get over tired I laugh - hysterically - the tears rolling down your face, wet your pants kind of hysterical - and it wont even really matter what was said. If Preston or someone sets me off it doesnt take much to completely get to me without saying much of anything. Ask Preston, he is proud of the fact there is still a phrase from when we were first married (which really isnt all that funny) that will still set me off after all these years
5) When I sit down -just about anywhere - I always tuck my left foot underneath me. This is making for some challenging circumstances as I have gotten older and my body protests being curled up. More often than not I end up having the girls come and help me "unfold" myself because my knee decides it is perfectly content to stay in that position.
6) When I clean the bathroom I ALWAYS forget to hang new towels. More often than not I have left Preston having to walk to the linen closet dripping wet to retrieve one. I am trying to be more conscious of it and Preston is learning to make sure he has a towel BEFORE he gets wet :)
Ok, now it is your turn! I tag Preston, Ceana, Brittney, Kenna, Lish
Here are the rules: "MY UNSPECTACULAR QUIRKS"
1. Link to the person who tagged you (still figuring out how to do this)
2. Mention the rules on your blog
3. Tell 6 unspectacular quirks about you. Tag 6 bloggers by linking to them (or tagging them on your blog)
5. Leave a comment on each of the tagged blogger's blogs letting them know they've been tagged
So I guess it is my turn to "tell all" about my quirks....
1) When I wear socks (which is hardly ever) I have to have the seam completely straight over the ends of my toes. If it moves or wrinkles I have to take my shoe off and start over. I just get around this most of the time by just not wearing socks - ever.
2) When I go to bed I have to straighten and fluff all the blankets and sheets "just so". I can't have any wrinkles or edges and I fold all the covers over on top and smooth everything. Preston always teases me about being his "princess" (princess & the pea) - and it really is true - if there is the slightest wrinkle or something is out of place I dont get comfy or sleep at all until it is "fixed".
3) I kill appliances - specifically vacuums & hand mixers. When I say kill, I mean they go down in flames kind of dead. We have recently replaced the vacuum - again ( I think this last one only lasted a year) and we have given up on buying hand mixers and have gone to the big counter-sized mixer instead (so far it has been safe from my brutality)
4) When I get over tired I laugh - hysterically - the tears rolling down your face, wet your pants kind of hysterical - and it wont even really matter what was said. If Preston or someone sets me off it doesnt take much to completely get to me without saying much of anything. Ask Preston, he is proud of the fact there is still a phrase from when we were first married (which really isnt all that funny) that will still set me off after all these years
5) When I sit down -just about anywhere - I always tuck my left foot underneath me. This is making for some challenging circumstances as I have gotten older and my body protests being curled up. More often than not I end up having the girls come and help me "unfold" myself because my knee decides it is perfectly content to stay in that position.
6) When I clean the bathroom I ALWAYS forget to hang new towels. More often than not I have left Preston having to walk to the linen closet dripping wet to retrieve one. I am trying to be more conscious of it and Preston is learning to make sure he has a towel BEFORE he gets wet :)
Ok, now it is your turn! I tag Preston, Ceana, Brittney, Kenna, Lish
TAG YOU'RE IT X 6
A friend started a new "tag, you're it" - if I understand it right you are supposed to find a pict with 6 of something in it? Lish, correct me if I am wrong -k-
When she tagged me I told her this would be a piece of cake as I have 6 of something in my life 24-7 - my KIDS!
It wasnt hard to find a pict as I have been taking TONS of picts of the kids recently.
This is one that I think in color I just didnt get the lighting right - but it really seems to work well in B&W.
So here are my tags for you - julie, kim H, denise, allison, courtney - cant wait to see the picts you post!
When she tagged me I told her this would be a piece of cake as I have 6 of something in my life 24-7 - my KIDS!
It wasnt hard to find a pict as I have been taking TONS of picts of the kids recently.
This is one that I think in color I just didnt get the lighting right - but it really seems to work well in B&W.
So here are my tags for you - julie, kim H, denise, allison, courtney - cant wait to see the picts you post!
SLEEP IS OVERRATED
Ok, so we were lucky enough to get 1 day/night of blissful sleep.....
Last night we were right back to being up most of the night. I got Kels tucked in the swing and she went right to sleep - that was at 9pm - I was still up. I was still up for about 5 hours after that - no matter what I did I could not get my brain to settle down. Finally about 230am I decided I felt tired enough to try to go to sleep - only to have Kels be fussing and completely awake. Apparently she thought she had a nice little nap and was up and running - I was very tired and very grumpy...
I thought I had gotten her settled back down around 330am - but no such luck, and I watched as the clocked ticked off minutes until I realized that Preston's alarm was only a short time from going off (5am).
I think I finally got her settled back in the swing just before 5am - and we both slept until about 7am. 2 HOURS of sleep is not going to be very helpful today.
She is already fussing for a nap - and with Ky still up after sleeping in - I have a feeling that it is going to be one of those days we will be trading off kiddos/sleep again. Could be an interesting day.
Last night we were right back to being up most of the night. I got Kels tucked in the swing and she went right to sleep - that was at 9pm - I was still up. I was still up for about 5 hours after that - no matter what I did I could not get my brain to settle down. Finally about 230am I decided I felt tired enough to try to go to sleep - only to have Kels be fussing and completely awake. Apparently she thought she had a nice little nap and was up and running - I was very tired and very grumpy...
I thought I had gotten her settled back down around 330am - but no such luck, and I watched as the clocked ticked off minutes until I realized that Preston's alarm was only a short time from going off (5am).
I think I finally got her settled back in the swing just before 5am - and we both slept until about 7am. 2 HOURS of sleep is not going to be very helpful today.
She is already fussing for a nap - and with Ky still up after sleeping in - I have a feeling that it is going to be one of those days we will be trading off kiddos/sleep again. Could be an interesting day.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
HO, HO, HO!
I know, I know - I can hear you saying "Wait! It is isnt even Thanksgiving yet!"
I am just so excited about a new project that will be coming up that I had to share!
About a week ago Preston's mom had made the suggestion to offer Santa portrait sittings to friends, family and community as a way to get myself "out there" and spread the word about my photography. My thought was - "yeah, and too bad dad isnt here to help out, no he lives in UT"
My brain has been trying to figure out a good way to be able to do it, who to ask to be santa - today those thoughts were made into reality!
A friend from 1st ward was at the ACES program tonight (another post coming with picts about that) and we got talking about her dad. He LOVES to play Santa and was sad he wouldnt get the chance to do it often this year. She knew he would love to be "my" Santa for the portrait sittings and even graciously offered her own house for the sittings!
I am SOOO excited. I will be putting flyer and price sheet together as well as coordinating a schedule for sittings in the next couple of days. I would like to offer an actual 90 minute shoot (for more personal setting/lots picts) but also offer short sittings too. Price suggestions have been 30min for $20-$25, 60min for $35, 90 min for $50. I am not sure I am comfy with these as my skills are still in beginning stages...
I would give the CD of picts to families and also have the option of having picts tweaked and "pro" printed for families for extra $.
I dont have the option right now for instant, high quality printing, and I am wondering if that will keep people away? Will people be ok with getting a disk of their own picts and then having the option to do whatever they want to them?
The one thing that scares me about giving a CD at the shoot is not having the time to look at them to tweak them or do touch-ups. Would it be ok to offer a "sneak peek" like they do at Penny's or other places and then only burn the picts the client wants? That would require prob a minimum of an extra 15min/shoot...
My goal in this is to have it be a personal sitting, more relaxed, more time to play, more time for little kiddos to have a fun experience and to capture their "shine" - people can go to the mall for the $5/5 minute/wait in line forever thing....thoughts?
In the past we have tried hard to get away from the whole "Santa/commercialism" stuff for our family. We are not even doing santa presents this year. But I know on the whole that the community really loves it and it is something special for families (like us again this year) who have a little person who will be celebrating a "1st" Christmas.
I would love to get your feedback, thoughts, ideas - what would you be interested in, how much would be reasonable for you? I will prob be trying to put a flyer together by Sunday to go out to wards and community stuff in the next week. I would love for you to post comments here or send me an email directly.
I really am excited about this project. Not for the $, but for the chance to see little people happy, to serve families by sharing this gift, to meet new people, to give K's dad a chance to also serve in a way that makes him so happy too. I think it could be such a wonderful opportunity to share a gift by giving a gift. Really that is what Christmas is about - sharing and giving gifts to others. I love that photography allows me to do that in so many ways.
I will look forward to hearing from you and getting all of your ideas. Wish me luck!
I am just so excited about a new project that will be coming up that I had to share!
About a week ago Preston's mom had made the suggestion to offer Santa portrait sittings to friends, family and community as a way to get myself "out there" and spread the word about my photography. My thought was - "yeah, and too bad dad isnt here to help out, no he lives in UT"
My brain has been trying to figure out a good way to be able to do it, who to ask to be santa - today those thoughts were made into reality!
A friend from 1st ward was at the ACES program tonight (another post coming with picts about that) and we got talking about her dad. He LOVES to play Santa and was sad he wouldnt get the chance to do it often this year. She knew he would love to be "my" Santa for the portrait sittings and even graciously offered her own house for the sittings!
I am SOOO excited. I will be putting flyer and price sheet together as well as coordinating a schedule for sittings in the next couple of days. I would like to offer an actual 90 minute shoot (for more personal setting/lots picts) but also offer short sittings too. Price suggestions have been 30min for $20-$25, 60min for $35, 90 min for $50. I am not sure I am comfy with these as my skills are still in beginning stages...
I would give the CD of picts to families and also have the option of having picts tweaked and "pro" printed for families for extra $.
I dont have the option right now for instant, high quality printing, and I am wondering if that will keep people away? Will people be ok with getting a disk of their own picts and then having the option to do whatever they want to them?
The one thing that scares me about giving a CD at the shoot is not having the time to look at them to tweak them or do touch-ups. Would it be ok to offer a "sneak peek" like they do at Penny's or other places and then only burn the picts the client wants? That would require prob a minimum of an extra 15min/shoot...
My goal in this is to have it be a personal sitting, more relaxed, more time to play, more time for little kiddos to have a fun experience and to capture their "shine" - people can go to the mall for the $5/5 minute/wait in line forever thing....thoughts?
In the past we have tried hard to get away from the whole "Santa/commercialism" stuff for our family. We are not even doing santa presents this year. But I know on the whole that the community really loves it and it is something special for families (like us again this year) who have a little person who will be celebrating a "1st" Christmas.
I would love to get your feedback, thoughts, ideas - what would you be interested in, how much would be reasonable for you? I will prob be trying to put a flyer together by Sunday to go out to wards and community stuff in the next week. I would love for you to post comments here or send me an email directly.
I really am excited about this project. Not for the $, but for the chance to see little people happy, to serve families by sharing this gift, to meet new people, to give K's dad a chance to also serve in a way that makes him so happy too. I think it could be such a wonderful opportunity to share a gift by giving a gift. Really that is what Christmas is about - sharing and giving gifts to others. I love that photography allows me to do that in so many ways.
I will look forward to hearing from you and getting all of your ideas. Wish me luck!
SLEEP IS LOVELY
Sleep is a lovely and wonderful thing, it is like heaven, it is SO helpful when it comes to keeping my sanity!
Our little travel swing died about 2 weeks ago - and with it so did any semblance of sleep for me.
Kels has been a lot like Kaeli was as a baby - always wanting to be held and always wanting to sleep in her swing - day & night. When the swing died we thought it would be a good time to try to let Kels just sleep on her own - not burrito wrapped - and in her own bed (well, the one in our room anyway) My sanity must have been slipping by then already - needless to say it has not gone well....
I have spent many nights up with her in the last 2 weeks sleeping off and on - 30 minutes (maybe) on and hours off. Two nights ago it kind of really got to me. She was extra fussy and no matter what I did for her it didnt help. I went back to the burrito wrap and a bottle during the night - which she hasnt needed for ages. When she was really tiny I sometimes could get her to sleep if I would hold her - she & I would march out to the library with pillow and blanket in hand, I would bundle her up and let her sleep in the crook of my arm - and we would both sleep. Two nights ago that didnt even work. I finally decided to pull out the dead swing, burrito wrap her and hand rock her in the swing - which helped her sleep only as long as my arm held out while I was still conscious - the minute I dozed and the swing stopped she was awake again...I think I counted about 2 hrs of sleep spread out through the night in little snippets.
After having her crying and fussy all day yesterday I finally got her to nap in the late afternoon - again by hand rocking her in the swing. She must have been as exhausted as I was because she finally went to sleep - for a couple of hours - I was so thankful the boys had also settled down that I was able to nap for a little bit too.
After such a long night & day and 2 weeks of this, desperation had set in. I got on the computer and sent out a plea for help to friends who I thought might still have a full sized swing in their possesion. I was so thankful to get so many responses from friends. A great big thank you to all of you who were so quick to come to my rescue!
Last night we were really still struggling even with the swing. I bundled her up and fed her a bottle WHILE she was swinging. She still cried and cried - and that along with everyone else in meltdown mode and being in chaos I thought for sure I was going to have a breakdown, and we were in for another long night with everyone, including kels, even having her in the swing.
I am so happy I can say that she and I slept tons better than we have for a VERY long time - thankfully so did everyone else, once they got settled down. Kels & I actually slept for several hours at a time - with her waking a couple of times but going right back to sleep. She is also taking a long morning nap. Thank you A for letting us borrow your wonderful swing - it really has helped a ton already!
I woke so refreshed from having almost a whole night's sleep that I have done amazing things today already - I actually got in a shower! I got the boys to school on time. I took the time to make muffins with Ky - and was patient enough to let him try to do everything himself - that hasnt been the case for a VERY long time. I sat and read books to Ky and laughed and teased with him. It has been a really nice morning.
My energy is starting to wane already and it isnt lunchtime yet - but I really am doing so much better. Swings really are wonderful things - I remember going through this exact same thing with Kaeli - that swing with her was my only sanity and the only way we both got any real sleep. Kels apparently is going to be the same way. Kaeli grew out of it without much of a problem and I know Kels will eventually too - but for now being able to borrow the swing is a true blessing for both of us! Thanx A a TON! You are an angel!
Our little travel swing died about 2 weeks ago - and with it so did any semblance of sleep for me.
Kels has been a lot like Kaeli was as a baby - always wanting to be held and always wanting to sleep in her swing - day & night. When the swing died we thought it would be a good time to try to let Kels just sleep on her own - not burrito wrapped - and in her own bed (well, the one in our room anyway) My sanity must have been slipping by then already - needless to say it has not gone well....
I have spent many nights up with her in the last 2 weeks sleeping off and on - 30 minutes (maybe) on and hours off. Two nights ago it kind of really got to me. She was extra fussy and no matter what I did for her it didnt help. I went back to the burrito wrap and a bottle during the night - which she hasnt needed for ages. When she was really tiny I sometimes could get her to sleep if I would hold her - she & I would march out to the library with pillow and blanket in hand, I would bundle her up and let her sleep in the crook of my arm - and we would both sleep. Two nights ago that didnt even work. I finally decided to pull out the dead swing, burrito wrap her and hand rock her in the swing - which helped her sleep only as long as my arm held out while I was still conscious - the minute I dozed and the swing stopped she was awake again...I think I counted about 2 hrs of sleep spread out through the night in little snippets.
After having her crying and fussy all day yesterday I finally got her to nap in the late afternoon - again by hand rocking her in the swing. She must have been as exhausted as I was because she finally went to sleep - for a couple of hours - I was so thankful the boys had also settled down that I was able to nap for a little bit too.
After such a long night & day and 2 weeks of this, desperation had set in. I got on the computer and sent out a plea for help to friends who I thought might still have a full sized swing in their possesion. I was so thankful to get so many responses from friends. A great big thank you to all of you who were so quick to come to my rescue!
Last night we were really still struggling even with the swing. I bundled her up and fed her a bottle WHILE she was swinging. She still cried and cried - and that along with everyone else in meltdown mode and being in chaos I thought for sure I was going to have a breakdown, and we were in for another long night with everyone, including kels, even having her in the swing.
I am so happy I can say that she and I slept tons better than we have for a VERY long time - thankfully so did everyone else, once they got settled down. Kels & I actually slept for several hours at a time - with her waking a couple of times but going right back to sleep. She is also taking a long morning nap. Thank you A for letting us borrow your wonderful swing - it really has helped a ton already!
I woke so refreshed from having almost a whole night's sleep that I have done amazing things today already - I actually got in a shower! I got the boys to school on time. I took the time to make muffins with Ky - and was patient enough to let him try to do everything himself - that hasnt been the case for a VERY long time. I sat and read books to Ky and laughed and teased with him. It has been a really nice morning.
My energy is starting to wane already and it isnt lunchtime yet - but I really am doing so much better. Swings really are wonderful things - I remember going through this exact same thing with Kaeli - that swing with her was my only sanity and the only way we both got any real sleep. Kels apparently is going to be the same way. Kaeli grew out of it without much of a problem and I know Kels will eventually too - but for now being able to borrow the swing is a true blessing for both of us! Thanx A a TON! You are an angel!
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
TENDER MERCIES & MIRACLES
I am going to post a blurb here on the family blog but will be sure to post more on the photo blog too.
Today I got the opportunity to practice my photography again by doing my 1st guy senior photo shoot. I was SOOO nervous - about it being my first time photographing a senior guy, about the horrendous weather, about my skills with indoor shoots ( not so good last time), about just about everything.
I know that I have been given this gift to be able to share with others. I do not have this gift or watch it develop because I am awesome or wonderful - it has all come because of great blessings.
My main goal with my photography is to be able to use my gift to serve others and bring them happiness, not myself. My goal is to be friendly, efficient, professional.
With these things in my heart and mind I knelt for prayer before the shoot today - knowing I couldnt do it on my own, pleading to have the weather behave, knowing I was so terrified to need to an indoor shoot and knowing my skills arent good enough to do that yet.
I was given more blessings, tender mercies, and miracles today than I could ever deserve - starting with exactly 90 minutes of dry weather! (I schedule all my shoots for 90min) The weather went from blowing and rainy yuck to misty rain to nothing. When we were just on the outside edge of that 90 minutes the wind and rain started in earnest again. This also happened with a shoot I did last week. It really was a miracle.
I was also blessed to have a very positive experience with the young man I did picts for. He was really great to work with and I think we both had fun. I was blessed with the end result of some pretty amazing picts to be able to give to him and his family (watch for them to post on the photo blog) as well.
During a couple of lulls in the shoot (clothes changes) I was able to just sit - with my heart overflowing with gratitude for the amazing gifts that had been given. I couldnt say "thank you" enough. It also gave me a chance to review picts already taken and have some quiet moments to be open to more ideas or inspiration - which I definately received.
Today was a day of receiving and giving gifts. It amazes me that I continue to receive such tender blessings as today when I know I am so undeserving. Even so, I am truly grateful for them and for the opportunity it gives for me to learn and for my testimony to grow stronger even through little things like taking pictures. It fills me with untold joy to be able to share those blessings and learning and strength with others - their happiness is also my own. What a marvel and wonder that is.
Today I got the opportunity to practice my photography again by doing my 1st guy senior photo shoot. I was SOOO nervous - about it being my first time photographing a senior guy, about the horrendous weather, about my skills with indoor shoots ( not so good last time), about just about everything.
I know that I have been given this gift to be able to share with others. I do not have this gift or watch it develop because I am awesome or wonderful - it has all come because of great blessings.
My main goal with my photography is to be able to use my gift to serve others and bring them happiness, not myself. My goal is to be friendly, efficient, professional.
With these things in my heart and mind I knelt for prayer before the shoot today - knowing I couldnt do it on my own, pleading to have the weather behave, knowing I was so terrified to need to an indoor shoot and knowing my skills arent good enough to do that yet.
I was given more blessings, tender mercies, and miracles today than I could ever deserve - starting with exactly 90 minutes of dry weather! (I schedule all my shoots for 90min) The weather went from blowing and rainy yuck to misty rain to nothing. When we were just on the outside edge of that 90 minutes the wind and rain started in earnest again. This also happened with a shoot I did last week. It really was a miracle.
I was also blessed to have a very positive experience with the young man I did picts for. He was really great to work with and I think we both had fun. I was blessed with the end result of some pretty amazing picts to be able to give to him and his family (watch for them to post on the photo blog) as well.
During a couple of lulls in the shoot (clothes changes) I was able to just sit - with my heart overflowing with gratitude for the amazing gifts that had been given. I couldnt say "thank you" enough. It also gave me a chance to review picts already taken and have some quiet moments to be open to more ideas or inspiration - which I definately received.
Today was a day of receiving and giving gifts. It amazes me that I continue to receive such tender blessings as today when I know I am so undeserving. Even so, I am truly grateful for them and for the opportunity it gives for me to learn and for my testimony to grow stronger even through little things like taking pictures. It fills me with untold joy to be able to share those blessings and learning and strength with others - their happiness is also my own. What a marvel and wonder that is.
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!
Well, we got a BIG surprise for the girls today! They had auditioned for the CHS play - The Sound of Music - last week. They had a positive experience even though they didnt make it for call-backs. Boy were we surprised when we received an email from the play director today and saw that both the girls' names were on the "extras/chorus" list! Both of the girls will get to play nuns.
Both the girls were SO excited they couldnt stand it and phone calls flew like lightning to their dad and to each other (ceana was at a friend's house, kaeli at home) and to other family members. The girls were also extra excited that a lot of their friends and MANY kids from the 2 wards are going to be in the play too. They are going to have a blast together in the coming months!
This is going to be a new adventure for us. The girls are very excited and cant wait to get started. We will get the rehersal schedule tomorrow and then we will be on our way!
The play is the week before/weekend of Valentine's Day. It will be great fun and great learning experiences for the girls and for all of us.
Preston used to participate in all the school plays when we were in school - being in the band he got to play all the cool music for everything. It will be fun to have the girls be in the play itself and get a different perspective on the whole process start to finish.
We will be sure to keep everyone posted on how the girls are doing and about all of the fun they are having!
Both the girls were SO excited they couldnt stand it and phone calls flew like lightning to their dad and to each other (ceana was at a friend's house, kaeli at home) and to other family members. The girls were also extra excited that a lot of their friends and MANY kids from the 2 wards are going to be in the play too. They are going to have a blast together in the coming months!
This is going to be a new adventure for us. The girls are very excited and cant wait to get started. We will get the rehersal schedule tomorrow and then we will be on our way!
The play is the week before/weekend of Valentine's Day. It will be great fun and great learning experiences for the girls and for all of us.
Preston used to participate in all the school plays when we were in school - being in the band he got to play all the cool music for everything. It will be fun to have the girls be in the play itself and get a different perspective on the whole process start to finish.
We will be sure to keep everyone posted on how the girls are doing and about all of the fun they are having!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
TENDER MERCIES
As my brain is many places today I felt with all the turmoil and challenges it would be a good time to update this category again.
1) STILL HAVING A JOB - P sent me an email yesterday morning to tell me about his day - that he had been given a presentation about company lay-offs and cutbacks - and then watched and he and other co-workers were asked to come one by one to find out about their futures with the company. P works for a company that is known world-wide. Never in all the time he has been there do I remember a time like this when the company has had set backs. We have been very blessed that he has been allowed to keep his position at work and that he does have a sufficient work load. It is a great blessing for us to know that we will have the $ that we need to support our family.
2) PAYCHECKS - Things have been very difficult for us, as it is for many right now. We have been scraping the bottom of the barrel just waiting for things to be in place to meet all of our responsibilities. We have struggled with that the last little while - we appreciate all of you who have been so patient with us. Today we were given another blessing when Preston's check posted a day early, allowing us to meet immediate needs for our family
3) APPLES - Our family loves apples of just about any kind, but esp red and green. Recently the girls have re-discovered them. C has beeen eating them non-stop since getting her braces off, loving every huge bite she can take. K has decided that she likes RED apples again, and I am thrilled as she has become my more choosy kiddo when it comes to food. It is nice to know that she is willing to pick a healthy snack when she gets the "munchies" at night while she is doing homework.
4) SILLY KIDDOS - Esp my 2 yr old. I have been contemplating making a title of a new post "naked as a jay bird" because he has been such a challenge lately. He has finally discovered how to undress himself - completely - and usually does so at the most inoportune time or out of the blue. Just when I think he is settled, he comes prancing in the room perfectly content that he has stripped himself to nothing. At first I resorted to putting his diaper on backwards - but that didnt seem to do the trick. I have come to the point where he is just in his zipper, snuggy PJ's 24-7 so I can put them on him BACKWARDS. He cant get to the zipper and thus he stays dressed! I seem to remember all of the other big kids going through this same stage too but cant seem to get my brain to remember what I did for them. For now it seems to be working for K and as long as I know he is warm and dressed then that is good for both of us.
The other thing he did recently was put himself down for a nap - right in the middle of the office floor. He was running in and out with his favorite blanket and pillow and chattering and the next thing I heard was lots of quiet and deep breathing - I looked over and there he was, totally zonked out. Of course I had to grab the camera - I will be sure to post that pict soon along with some others.
5) K IS ALMOST 6 MONTHS! It is hard to believe that she is going to be 6 months old in just a few days. She is getting so big. This last weekend she surprised P when he noticed that she was sitting up all by herself on the rug. With his crazy work and drill schedule he hasnt been around her enough to see all her new growth. She is really good at sitting up and playing with toys. She can also control when she falls over - it isnt just a solid bonk anymore, more of a slow flop...
She also has TWO bottom front teeth coming in. That probably explains why she has been so fussy this last week. I found the 1st one awhile ago and then discovered the 2nd one had broken through her gum this week. She is also growing out of clothes again already - it seems we are washing the same outfits over and over until I can get up in the storage area and get down the next clothes box. I also need to finally find her some cold weather shoes or socks.
Our one challenge is that she still is not interested in eating "real" food. Every time we try she just sticks out her tongue and spits it back out - all over herself and whoever happens to be helping her. The rest of the kids ate at lots of different ages so it is not such a big deal. I seem to remember when C was a baby that things kicked in around Thanksgiving because of all the soft foods available. Maybe that will be the trick that works for K too.
She has her 6 month check-up next week and it will be fun to see how big she really is. I will be sure to post more after her appt.
6) SCRIPTURE CHALLENGES - We have been having a hard time with scripture study lately and one day my brain got a new idea. A challenge for the kids to see if we could do better on reading.
Everyone was given their own calendar to keep track of their reading. The big kids need to read 20 minutes and then report to me or P and then record their reading. The little boys get read to and then they can earn a sticker for each day they are read to or that they look at our scripture picture books. There are weekly prizes for the kiddo with the most days reading and a big "grand prize" at the end of the month. It seems to be doing the trick as I have had the big girls studying just about every day and actually reporting, in detail, what they have studied. It has given us a new incentive and we are all working towards making better habits and better success with gospel study.
Well, there is more to write - but little K is not napping again today. She has been so fussy this week with her teeth and I think that the swing has finally died (if she isnt rocking, she usually isnt sleeping). I will try to post more soon.
1) STILL HAVING A JOB - P sent me an email yesterday morning to tell me about his day - that he had been given a presentation about company lay-offs and cutbacks - and then watched and he and other co-workers were asked to come one by one to find out about their futures with the company. P works for a company that is known world-wide. Never in all the time he has been there do I remember a time like this when the company has had set backs. We have been very blessed that he has been allowed to keep his position at work and that he does have a sufficient work load. It is a great blessing for us to know that we will have the $ that we need to support our family.
2) PAYCHECKS - Things have been very difficult for us, as it is for many right now. We have been scraping the bottom of the barrel just waiting for things to be in place to meet all of our responsibilities. We have struggled with that the last little while - we appreciate all of you who have been so patient with us. Today we were given another blessing when Preston's check posted a day early, allowing us to meet immediate needs for our family
3) APPLES - Our family loves apples of just about any kind, but esp red and green. Recently the girls have re-discovered them. C has beeen eating them non-stop since getting her braces off, loving every huge bite she can take. K has decided that she likes RED apples again, and I am thrilled as she has become my more choosy kiddo when it comes to food. It is nice to know that she is willing to pick a healthy snack when she gets the "munchies" at night while she is doing homework.
4) SILLY KIDDOS - Esp my 2 yr old. I have been contemplating making a title of a new post "naked as a jay bird" because he has been such a challenge lately. He has finally discovered how to undress himself - completely - and usually does so at the most inoportune time or out of the blue. Just when I think he is settled, he comes prancing in the room perfectly content that he has stripped himself to nothing. At first I resorted to putting his diaper on backwards - but that didnt seem to do the trick. I have come to the point where he is just in his zipper, snuggy PJ's 24-7 so I can put them on him BACKWARDS. He cant get to the zipper and thus he stays dressed! I seem to remember all of the other big kids going through this same stage too but cant seem to get my brain to remember what I did for them. For now it seems to be working for K and as long as I know he is warm and dressed then that is good for both of us.
The other thing he did recently was put himself down for a nap - right in the middle of the office floor. He was running in and out with his favorite blanket and pillow and chattering and the next thing I heard was lots of quiet and deep breathing - I looked over and there he was, totally zonked out. Of course I had to grab the camera - I will be sure to post that pict soon along with some others.
5) K IS ALMOST 6 MONTHS! It is hard to believe that she is going to be 6 months old in just a few days. She is getting so big. This last weekend she surprised P when he noticed that she was sitting up all by herself on the rug. With his crazy work and drill schedule he hasnt been around her enough to see all her new growth. She is really good at sitting up and playing with toys. She can also control when she falls over - it isnt just a solid bonk anymore, more of a slow flop...
She also has TWO bottom front teeth coming in. That probably explains why she has been so fussy this last week. I found the 1st one awhile ago and then discovered the 2nd one had broken through her gum this week. She is also growing out of clothes again already - it seems we are washing the same outfits over and over until I can get up in the storage area and get down the next clothes box. I also need to finally find her some cold weather shoes or socks.
Our one challenge is that she still is not interested in eating "real" food. Every time we try she just sticks out her tongue and spits it back out - all over herself and whoever happens to be helping her. The rest of the kids ate at lots of different ages so it is not such a big deal. I seem to remember when C was a baby that things kicked in around Thanksgiving because of all the soft foods available. Maybe that will be the trick that works for K too.
She has her 6 month check-up next week and it will be fun to see how big she really is. I will be sure to post more after her appt.
6) SCRIPTURE CHALLENGES - We have been having a hard time with scripture study lately and one day my brain got a new idea. A challenge for the kids to see if we could do better on reading.
Everyone was given their own calendar to keep track of their reading. The big kids need to read 20 minutes and then report to me or P and then record their reading. The little boys get read to and then they can earn a sticker for each day they are read to or that they look at our scripture picture books. There are weekly prizes for the kiddo with the most days reading and a big "grand prize" at the end of the month. It seems to be doing the trick as I have had the big girls studying just about every day and actually reporting, in detail, what they have studied. It has given us a new incentive and we are all working towards making better habits and better success with gospel study.
Well, there is more to write - but little K is not napping again today. She has been so fussy this week with her teeth and I think that the swing has finally died (if she isnt rocking, she usually isnt sleeping). I will try to post more soon.
HELPFUL OR HELPLESS?
Ok, just venting here for a minute and then would love to get everyone's ideas about what you think.
Lately my 3 big kiddos have been in the habit of forgetting things - lunches, homework, important papers, etc. and then expecting me to jump in the car and rescue them.
After having this happen again today - and having to put 4 kiddos in the car again to help big girls I am a bit beside myself.
I am caught in a dilema though - do I continue to bail them out and be at their beck and call and still be doing so in 15+years when I still havent taught them to be responsible - or do I draw the line now and make them responsible for the consequences of their own actions - including their forgetfulness, no matter how big or small.
My thoughts are in a turmoil of "in 15 years is it going to matter?" Will it?- will they still be calling me to bail them out? Will they remember that I was a "hard nose" and never willing to help or support them? Will they remember that I was always willing to help no matter what?
My brain is in all sorts of places over this. Would love to know what you think or what experiences you have had with this with your own kiddos? Maybe I am the only one?
Lately my 3 big kiddos have been in the habit of forgetting things - lunches, homework, important papers, etc. and then expecting me to jump in the car and rescue them.
After having this happen again today - and having to put 4 kiddos in the car again to help big girls I am a bit beside myself.
I am caught in a dilema though - do I continue to bail them out and be at their beck and call and still be doing so in 15+years when I still havent taught them to be responsible - or do I draw the line now and make them responsible for the consequences of their own actions - including their forgetfulness, no matter how big or small.
My thoughts are in a turmoil of "in 15 years is it going to matter?" Will it?- will they still be calling me to bail them out? Will they remember that I was a "hard nose" and never willing to help or support them? Will they remember that I was always willing to help no matter what?
My brain is in all sorts of places over this. Would love to know what you think or what experiences you have had with this with your own kiddos? Maybe I am the only one?
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
HAPPY HALLOWEEN
We had an extra full and adventurous Halloween this year. The kids started their happy holiday on Thursday with class parties and festive activities. Friday afternoon we were invited to a friend's house for a costume party luncheon. The kids had a blast eating yummy food, playing fun games, getting their faces painted, and doing crafts. It was a great way to spend our time out of school. Thanx A & B for planning such a great activity!
Friday night we attended (and were partially in charge of) our annual church trunk-or-treat activity. It was really Ky's first year to "get it" and he had so much fun walking around with Ceana to collect treats and candy and he got really good at saying "trick-or-treat". The kids also enjoyed the indoor cupcake walk and the costume parade.
The girls had an extra fun time tweaking Kels's costume too. She was given an outfit that says "I am a social butterfly" - the big girls came up with the idea of making her some antenae from pipecleaners and baby butterfly clips and attached it to a headband. They also hunted the costume and dress up boxes to find her some wings. It turned out SO cute and we have had tons of fun taking TONS of picts of her.
Overall I think the kids had a great Halloween and all the picts we took will make for lots of fun scrap pages.
Friday night we attended (and were partially in charge of) our annual church trunk-or-treat activity. It was really Ky's first year to "get it" and he had so much fun walking around with Ceana to collect treats and candy and he got really good at saying "trick-or-treat". The kids also enjoyed the indoor cupcake walk and the costume parade.
The girls had an extra fun time tweaking Kels's costume too. She was given an outfit that says "I am a social butterfly" - the big girls came up with the idea of making her some antenae from pipecleaners and baby butterfly clips and attached it to a headband. They also hunted the costume and dress up boxes to find her some wings. It turned out SO cute and we have had tons of fun taking TONS of picts of her.
Overall I think the kids had a great Halloween and all the picts we took will make for lots of fun scrap pages.
Monday, November 3, 2008
What? Again?
Some of you might remember that awhile back my family had a "weight loss contest" that only Rory and I ended up finishing. (Since she met her goal, she won a fabulous shopping spree!). So when my littlest brother - who is probably still keeping track of how long he's been married in DAYS - wrote to the family this morning that he's worried about getting fat and suggested another contest, I figured this was "easy money."
Rules:
Rules:
- Participants send $$ to a sister-in-law who isn't allowed to participate because the winds coming off the Great Salt Lake would deposit her in St. George if she lost any more weight ($25 to $100 each).
- Initial weigh-in is today.
- Contest lasts for 4 months, to end on 4 March 2009.
- Parents, siblings and most spouses have agreed to participate.
- Highest % weight loss takes home the money. ALL of it.
- Smack-talk is essential. I'm still trying to convince them to award "style points" for said smack.
With the holidays approaching, anyone who wants to help ensure my victory is welcome to send leftover Halloween candy, Thanksgiving desserts, Christmas Season goodies, New-Years treats, Valentine's Day chocolates, and even Presidents' Day commemorative baked goods to everyone on my family's mailing list. Just email me and I'll be happy to provided you with that list. (There might even be a "cut" of the winnings in it for you.)
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