Sun 31 *I am thankful for the wisdom of my family. We were all camping at Uncle Brent and Aunt Eileen's property and as it rained throughout the night we decided when we had some let up this morning that we would go home today instead of tomorrow. I'm thankful to err on the side of caution.
Sat 30 *I am thankful Kent noticed the screw in our tire and got it taken care of and that Price wasn't too far away. I am also thankful it was taken care of before we did have a flat while pulling a large trailer on back.
Fri 29 *I am thankful we were able to get up to the property safely and get camp set up and enjoy our evening.
Thur 28 *I am thankful to have my house mostly clean so we can leave the house in good condition while we go camping this weekend.
Wed 27 *Today was an awesome day that I am so grateful for. I was able to get out and walk four miles in an hour. After that I enjoyed the outdoors while Braxton played with the little Latino boy downstairs, Chooche (sp?). Finally to top the day off we had sales goal at work that were SO far behind there was no way I could see that I could get us there. Not only did we get to the goal we needed to get to we made it all the way to our big goal! It made me feel so good to help the team get to our goals!
Tue 26 *I am thankful I was able to enjoy the children in the area tonight. I taught them to play the game "Colored Eggs" and it as a lot of fun. After watching my eight-year-old neighbor throw a fit over not getting ice cream I am thankful Braxton doesn't know what the ice cream truck is and he doesn't get that out of control.
Mon 25 *I am thankful for my wonderful husbands enthusiam about getting a good jogging stroller. I would be happy to do the cheap thing and he always feels like I need nice things. It's nice to have someone tell me I am worth it (and actually have the money to spend on nice items).
Sun 24 *I am thankful for a good day today. I am even more thankful that I can get some sleep now. It's good to be busy even if it does leave you tired.
Sat 23 *I am thankful I was able to accomplish all that I wanted to today. I am also thankful for the knowledge I have to bottle jams and other things.
Fri 22 *I am thankful for a few things today. I am thankful for 4 extra hours I gained because they didn't need me at work tonight. I am also thankful for that since I haven't been feeling 100% today. I am also thankful that I was able to get two batched of jam made as well as get some of my cleaning done. Overall the day turned out well.
Thur 21 *I am thankful Kent wanted to take me on a date tonight even though I felt like I was too tired to go. It's nice to know that it meant more to him than an obligation. I am also thankful to find toys and books on my bed at night to remind me that my son loves me so much that he wants to be near me always whether playing or reading.
Wed 20 *I am so thankful for the enjoyment we had at dinner with the Lafeen's. It was so nice to get together with new friends and become even better friends. I am so blessed to be surrounded by good people.
Tue 19 *I am thankful to have found some raspberries to make some raspberry jam with.
Mon 18 *I am thankful for a fun family night up the canyon with our next door neighbors. It was fun to have a hot dog roast as well as roast marshmellows for smores.
Sun 17 *I am thankful that Kent's mom makes the effort to come up and see her grandkids once a month. It's nice to have Braxton finally making connections with a grandparent.
Sat 16 *I am thankful to have been able to finally go camping with Kent and Braxton.
Fri 15 *I am thankful to have been able to spend a nice day with Braxton, Kent and the ward's youth at Deer Creek. It was so fun for Braxton to be in one place and see boats, trucks (all kinds), helicopters, airplanes, and even a train.
Thur 14 *I am grateful to be enjoying the olympics. I may not be a huge sports fan but I really enjoy the events you get to follow with the olympics.
Wed 13 *Today I am thankful for the opportunity to gain knowledge. I enjoy learning from books, classes, teachers, and many other resources including you all. I pray that I will never stop learning from the lessons life brings me.
Tue 12 *I am thankful for my strength and health which enables me to be self reliant.
Mon 11 *I am thankful for the blessings that have come from learning to be a positive pro-active person. I hope that the blessing in that aspect continue to increase.
Sun 10 *I am thankful for my Kunz aunts and uncles. I am thankful that so many times they have opened up their house (or yard/property) so that we could enjoy the company of one another. I am thankful to be a part of that family.
Sat 9 *I am thankful for a joyous and full day. I was able to earn a wage as well as make it to a shower for three of Kent's cousins and enjoy a fabulous night at the Midvale Harvest days with my family and Ryan Shupe and the RubberBand.
Fri 8 *I am thankful I decided to go to the zoo with Carrie and her friends. It was the perfect day for the zoo. I am also thankful for the good time I was able to have with my family tonight. It was nice to get together and visit. I am also thankful for Cheryl being willing to host the dinner.
Thur 7 *I am thankful there was another available path for my parents to take since the Spanish Fork Canyon was closed due to a mud slide.
Wed 6 *I am thankful to have garbage bags in my garbage again.
Tue 5 *I am thankful for two days in a row of Braxton napping!
Mon 4 *I am thankful for the opportunity to have served my new neighbor tonight for family night. I am also very thankful that I have been blessed with a good mind to make good decisions so as to limit the pain in my life. I am also very thankful for the blessing of being able to raise my child.
Sun 3 *I am thankful we have had time to stay and visit with Kent's parents and his Uncle and his family today.
Sat 2 *I am thankful we were able to attend Audrie's baptism this morning. I am thankful that Kent had a positive experience with his reunion. I am also thankful to see Kent's classmates pray for the food before the dinner. I am also thankful that the fire started by children in Meadow in the dry grass didn't harm any life or any houses.
Fri 1 *I am thankful my sister-in-law Heather is going to be able to watch Braxton while Kent and I go to his HS reunion
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Eye Troubles
For about two to three weeks now I have had a small spot in the white of my eye that has been red and irritated. I figured it would be red for a few days and go away like it sometimes has in the past. You know a little broken blood vessel, etc. After it didn't clear up I got to looking at it and saw what can be described as what looked like an eyelash curled around the outside of my iris covered by some kind of film. I had even contemplated seeing if it was just an eyelash and playing doctor to remove it. I decided to go to the doctor and have it checked out. I think it was a better way to deal with it.
The funny part was the way the doctor describe that part of my eye. He said it was "lumpy bumpy." He's a good doctor, but he just describes thing in such a juvenile way that makes him sound goofy. I'm sure there has got to be someone who meets him in regular life and thinks, "this guy is really a doctor?" Anyway I am supposed to be putting eye drops in for the next five days and that will clear it up. I will try and let you all know if it does. I tried to take a picture to show you the "lumpy bumpy" eye, but all it really shows is the little bit of red that is still there.
The yellow around my eyelid is a special kind of dye they put into my so that they could get a better look at what might be bothering my eye. The good news was that when they looked they didn't see a foreign body there. I know it kind of makes my eye look gross with the dye but I assure you that part if unaffected.
The yellow around my eyelid is a special kind of dye they put into my so that they could get a better look at what might be bothering my eye. The good news was that when they looked they didn't see a foreign body there. I know it kind of makes my eye look gross with the dye but I assure you that part if unaffected.Monday, August 25, 2008
Learning for Today from the Wars of Yesterday
Lately I have had the opportunity to read one of my favorite parts of the scriptures. Interestingly enough when I was in high school I met a woman who stated that she hated reading about the wars in the Book of Mormon so she would skip them. I have thought about that idea oft times and wondered how anyone could skip that part. As I read this time I had her in mind and asked myself why these battles and wars are important for us to read. I came up with three reasons I would like to focus on.
The first idea came to mind immediately and was that we need to learn about Moroni, Helaman and his 2000 warriors, Lehi, Teancum and many other powerful Nephites. There are so many wonderful men to learn from but because of verse 17 in Alma 48 I have chosen to focus on Captain Moroni. This verse states, “Yea, verily, verily I say unto you, if all men had been, and were, and ever would be, like unto Moroni, behold, the very powers of hell would have been shaken forever; yea, the devil would never have power over the hearts of the children of men.” Because of this verse I studied the qualities of Moroni as I have read through these chapters of the scriptures. I’ll give you an overview of my discoveries.
Moroni was the chief captain among the Nephites. He was appointed to this position when he was only 25 years old. He was very wise and well prepared. He prepared his warriors with shields and breastplates and other armor. He was passionate about defending the land, his country, his rights and liberties. He was unafraid of war with the Lamanites, but he offered peace to Zarahemnah and his army three times until they finally accepted. He ordered the Lamanite prisoners to work in order to keep guard over them. He labored exceedingly for the welfare and safety of others and was intolerant of those who did not support freedom. The scriptures describe his as strong, mighty, bold, and courageous.
Captain Moroni was also a man of mental strength. He fought war by strategies and used wisdom in fortifying and strengthening the Nephite lands. He used the Lamanites weaknesses against them and was very clever in his warfare. Consistent and true to his word, he was a man of perfect understanding who joyed in the liberty and freedom of his country. He was a forgiving man who offered peace to the Lamanites many times and worked to help others find happiness. He was of a strong mind and also was not afraid to share his mind when it came to Nephite dissenters as well as those who were stubborn or entitled. He was always concerned with his people’s freedom and even became angry with the government and chastised them for their neglect of his people.
He was also a man of God who followed the Lord. When he wanted to know which way his armies should go to defend themselves he sent word to Alma asking him to inquire of the Lord. When he received Alma’s direction he followed it. The scriptures say he had faith in Christ and was firm in that faith. He used his faith to inspire those around him. He hoisted a visual reminder of God and the things which were important to him when he made the Title of Liberty. He understood the need for the Nephites to be righteous so they could possess the land. He prayed for their liberty having faith God would grant it according to their righteousness. Because of that faith he moved the people to covenant with God to maintain their rights and religion. He also prepared them to be faithful to God and he helped to bring unity to the church. He joyed in his brethren’s faithfulness and mourned their rebellion against God. He was a man who likened the scriptures unto himself and his heart did glory; in preserving his people, keeping the commandments, and resisting iniquity. His heart also swelled with thanksgiving to God. He was a man like unto Ammon, the sons of Mosiah, and Alma and his sons, for all were men of God.
Moroni has always been my hero and upon further study of this man my admiration has grown immensely. While there is much to be said about how I can learn from this man I will say that I have learned the importance of being a strong individual in doing God's work. Despite my young age and inexperience God will strengthen me. We must all be consistent and true to our word. We should find joy in our freedoms and not be afraid to speak our minds when it involves the works of God and righteousness. Finally we must seek the Lord's guidance and follow it as well as the direction of his prophets. We must have faith in Christ and share our faith with those around us. We must pray, study the scriptures, keep the commandments, and give our thanks unto God.
The second reason it is important to study these words is so we can learn how to deal with the spiritual battles Satan is waging against us. There is a real war going on today and it is seen every day by our children in the halls at school. It is seen in the workplace as well as in the newspapers, on TV, the Internet, and in almost every facet of our lives. The fight for your soul and mine is very real and Satan is working overtime to gain our lives, our bodies, and even our very souls.
One summer of my college years I was fortunate to go home to my parents house in Oregon. We always had the missionaries in our home so we could feed them and feel of their spirits. Every time the missionaries came to dinner they would share a thought with our family. Many thoughts were very nice and brought us joy, but one though has stayed with me through the years.
That thought comes from Alma chapter 50 versus 1 through 6. There it states,
"1 And now it came to pass that Moroni did not stop making preparations for war, or to defend his people against the Lamanites; for he caused that his armies should commence in the commencement of the twentieth year of the reign of the judges, that they should commence in digging up heaps of earth round about all the cities, throughout all the land which was possessed by the Nephites.
2 And upon the top of these ridges of earth he caused that there should be timbers, yea, works of timbers built up to the height of a man, round about the cities.
3 And he caused that upon those works of timbers there should be a frame of pickets built upon the timbers round about; and they were strong and high.
4 And he caused towers to be erected that overlooked those works of pickets, and he caused places of security to be built upon those towers, that the stones and the arrows of the Lamanites could not hurt them.
5 And they were prepared that they could cast stones from the top thereof, according to their pleasure and their strength, and slay him who should attempt to approach near the walls of the city.
6 Thus Moroni did prepare strongholds against the coming of their enemies, round about every city in all the land.
The missionary took a piece of paper and shared with us a picture of what these strong holds might look like. He then proceeded to label each part of that picture with modern-day comparison's. He made a square and called it the city and likened it to our souls or our testimonies. Then using strips of paper surrounding the outside of the square he called those heaps of earth and asked us to think about those as the first four principle and ordinances of the gospel. Faith, Repentance, Baptism by Immersion, and the Gift of the Holy Ghost.
Around the outside of those strips he had strips as timbers and related those to the four standard works. The Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. Next in the scriptures it talks of pickets and he made those strips of paper and related those to the four main auxiliaries in the church; Priesthood, Relief Society, Young Women's, and Primary. Finally he placed the towers upon the outer part of the city and called the four watchmen for our day, Prophets, Bishops, Parents, and Temples. The missionary pointed out that if we will surround our souls, with all of these things that the devils arrows and fiery darts will not be able to reach us because we will be so well protected from Satan's ploys. There is a lot to do and it may not be easy, but the rewards will be well worth it.
The third and final reason I came up with to read these passages is so we can learn of our need to rely on the Lord and be united with our brethren in the Lord. Over and over again in this part of the Book of Mormon you can see the pride cycle. As long as the people are following the commandments and doing the will of the Lord they are protected and delivered from the hands of the Lamanites, but when they prosper, and become prideful and iniquitous they have dissension among themselves and their struggles with the Lamanites come upon them again. They become reliant upon the Lord to save them from themselves. We need to learn from this cycle. When times are going well and we find that we aren't relying on the Lord we need to beware. It is those times we need to open our hearts in humility and thanksgiving to the Lord and see where we are falling short.
I myself am so very grateful for all the scriptures that I have to help me learn the will of the Lord. I am thankful for all that is included and for what I have learned from them as well as what I will learn in the future. I know that it is all there for our benefit and our learning. We have but to open the scriptures up and allow our knowledge to grow as we earnestly study and seek to learn the will of God for ourselves. I pray that we will not take these blessings for granted in our lives, but that we will feast upon the scriptures continually. I know that if we do this our lives will be blessed. I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
The first idea came to mind immediately and was that we need to learn about Moroni, Helaman and his 2000 warriors, Lehi, Teancum and many other powerful Nephites. There are so many wonderful men to learn from but because of verse 17 in Alma 48 I have chosen to focus on Captain Moroni. This verse states, “Yea, verily, verily I say unto you, if all men had been, and were, and ever would be, like unto Moroni, behold, the very powers of hell would have been shaken forever; yea, the devil would never have power over the hearts of the children of men.” Because of this verse I studied the qualities of Moroni as I have read through these chapters of the scriptures. I’ll give you an overview of my discoveries.
Moroni was the chief captain among the Nephites. He was appointed to this position when he was only 25 years old. He was very wise and well prepared. He prepared his warriors with shields and breastplates and other armor. He was passionate about defending the land, his country, his rights and liberties. He was unafraid of war with the Lamanites, but he offered peace to Zarahemnah and his army three times until they finally accepted. He ordered the Lamanite prisoners to work in order to keep guard over them. He labored exceedingly for the welfare and safety of others and was intolerant of those who did not support freedom. The scriptures describe his as strong, mighty, bold, and courageous.
Captain Moroni was also a man of mental strength. He fought war by strategies and used wisdom in fortifying and strengthening the Nephite lands. He used the Lamanites weaknesses against them and was very clever in his warfare. Consistent and true to his word, he was a man of perfect understanding who joyed in the liberty and freedom of his country. He was a forgiving man who offered peace to the Lamanites many times and worked to help others find happiness. He was of a strong mind and also was not afraid to share his mind when it came to Nephite dissenters as well as those who were stubborn or entitled. He was always concerned with his people’s freedom and even became angry with the government and chastised them for their neglect of his people.
He was also a man of God who followed the Lord. When he wanted to know which way his armies should go to defend themselves he sent word to Alma asking him to inquire of the Lord. When he received Alma’s direction he followed it. The scriptures say he had faith in Christ and was firm in that faith. He used his faith to inspire those around him. He hoisted a visual reminder of God and the things which were important to him when he made the Title of Liberty. He understood the need for the Nephites to be righteous so they could possess the land. He prayed for their liberty having faith God would grant it according to their righteousness. Because of that faith he moved the people to covenant with God to maintain their rights and religion. He also prepared them to be faithful to God and he helped to bring unity to the church. He joyed in his brethren’s faithfulness and mourned their rebellion against God. He was a man who likened the scriptures unto himself and his heart did glory; in preserving his people, keeping the commandments, and resisting iniquity. His heart also swelled with thanksgiving to God. He was a man like unto Ammon, the sons of Mosiah, and Alma and his sons, for all were men of God.
Moroni has always been my hero and upon further study of this man my admiration has grown immensely. While there is much to be said about how I can learn from this man I will say that I have learned the importance of being a strong individual in doing God's work. Despite my young age and inexperience God will strengthen me. We must all be consistent and true to our word. We should find joy in our freedoms and not be afraid to speak our minds when it involves the works of God and righteousness. Finally we must seek the Lord's guidance and follow it as well as the direction of his prophets. We must have faith in Christ and share our faith with those around us. We must pray, study the scriptures, keep the commandments, and give our thanks unto God.
The second reason it is important to study these words is so we can learn how to deal with the spiritual battles Satan is waging against us. There is a real war going on today and it is seen every day by our children in the halls at school. It is seen in the workplace as well as in the newspapers, on TV, the Internet, and in almost every facet of our lives. The fight for your soul and mine is very real and Satan is working overtime to gain our lives, our bodies, and even our very souls.
One summer of my college years I was fortunate to go home to my parents house in Oregon. We always had the missionaries in our home so we could feed them and feel of their spirits. Every time the missionaries came to dinner they would share a thought with our family. Many thoughts were very nice and brought us joy, but one though has stayed with me through the years.
That thought comes from Alma chapter 50 versus 1 through 6. There it states,
"1 And now it came to pass that Moroni did not stop making preparations for war, or to defend his people against the Lamanites; for he caused that his armies should commence in the commencement of the twentieth year of the reign of the judges, that they should commence in digging up heaps of earth round about all the cities, throughout all the land which was possessed by the Nephites.
2 And upon the top of these ridges of earth he caused that there should be timbers, yea, works of timbers built up to the height of a man, round about the cities.
3 And he caused that upon those works of timbers there should be a frame of pickets built upon the timbers round about; and they were strong and high.
4 And he caused towers to be erected that overlooked those works of pickets, and he caused places of security to be built upon those towers, that the stones and the arrows of the Lamanites could not hurt them.
5 And they were prepared that they could cast stones from the top thereof, according to their pleasure and their strength, and slay him who should attempt to approach near the walls of the city.
6 Thus Moroni did prepare strongholds against the coming of their enemies, round about every city in all the land.
The missionary took a piece of paper and shared with us a picture of what these strong holds might look like. He then proceeded to label each part of that picture with modern-day comparison's. He made a square and called it the city and likened it to our souls or our testimonies. Then using strips of paper surrounding the outside of the square he called those heaps of earth and asked us to think about those as the first four principle and ordinances of the gospel. Faith, Repentance, Baptism by Immersion, and the Gift of the Holy Ghost.
Around the outside of those strips he had strips as timbers and related those to the four standard works. The Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. Next in the scriptures it talks of pickets and he made those strips of paper and related those to the four main auxiliaries in the church; Priesthood, Relief Society, Young Women's, and Primary. Finally he placed the towers upon the outer part of the city and called the four watchmen for our day, Prophets, Bishops, Parents, and Temples. The missionary pointed out that if we will surround our souls, with all of these things that the devils arrows and fiery darts will not be able to reach us because we will be so well protected from Satan's ploys. There is a lot to do and it may not be easy, but the rewards will be well worth it.
The third and final reason I came up with to read these passages is so we can learn of our need to rely on the Lord and be united with our brethren in the Lord. Over and over again in this part of the Book of Mormon you can see the pride cycle. As long as the people are following the commandments and doing the will of the Lord they are protected and delivered from the hands of the Lamanites, but when they prosper, and become prideful and iniquitous they have dissension among themselves and their struggles with the Lamanites come upon them again. They become reliant upon the Lord to save them from themselves. We need to learn from this cycle. When times are going well and we find that we aren't relying on the Lord we need to beware. It is those times we need to open our hearts in humility and thanksgiving to the Lord and see where we are falling short.
I myself am so very grateful for all the scriptures that I have to help me learn the will of the Lord. I am thankful for all that is included and for what I have learned from them as well as what I will learn in the future. I know that it is all there for our benefit and our learning. We have but to open the scriptures up and allow our knowledge to grow as we earnestly study and seek to learn the will of God for ourselves. I pray that we will not take these blessings for granted in our lives, but that we will feast upon the scriptures continually. I know that if we do this our lives will be blessed. I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Spiritual Growing Pains
I have been busy trying to do quite a lot of not much important which has kept me from blogging about this. Two Sunday's ago I was sustained to be the second counselor in the Primary Presidency. You would think it would be a little relief after doing ward activities coordinator but it's not. I was actually settling into that calling quite nicely (finally). I felt like I had figured out what it was I was supposed to be doing and I would finally be able to sit back and just enjoy doing instead of trying to figure it all out. Nope, apparently not!
We have a very small primary so this calling shouldn't be stressful, but all I can think of is all the places I would love to learn to serve in. In all honestly it boils down to teaching. I love teaching others the gospel and really diving in to the scriptures with them. I am SO sad to not be able to go to Sunday school. I have grown to love Sunday school since I have been reading the lessons before hand. It has helped me to keep up on my scripture study. I am afraid not having some accountability will become a downfall for me. Do me a favor every now and again and make sure I am keeping up on my scripture studies.
All in all I know that this is where I am supposed to be (or at least I have faith that it is) and I know that I have things to learn as well as things to add to this primary. I just hope that I can share my testimony with these young people in a way that will help their testimonies to grow. I just enjoy more of the one on one and this is going to be a calling that will probably be my biggest challenge as well as my greatest blessing when it is all said and done.
We have a very small primary so this calling shouldn't be stressful, but all I can think of is all the places I would love to learn to serve in. In all honestly it boils down to teaching. I love teaching others the gospel and really diving in to the scriptures with them. I am SO sad to not be able to go to Sunday school. I have grown to love Sunday school since I have been reading the lessons before hand. It has helped me to keep up on my scripture study. I am afraid not having some accountability will become a downfall for me. Do me a favor every now and again and make sure I am keeping up on my scripture studies.
All in all I know that this is where I am supposed to be (or at least I have faith that it is) and I know that I have things to learn as well as things to add to this primary. I just hope that I can share my testimony with these young people in a way that will help their testimonies to grow. I just enjoy more of the one on one and this is going to be a calling that will probably be my biggest challenge as well as my greatest blessing when it is all said and done.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Summer Fun at the Gateway fountain
Yesterday the family went on a tour of the conference center and then spent a little time on temple square. Afterward Kent came and took me home to get ready for work while he went back downtown and played with Mom, Dad, Erik, Mariel, Liesel, Cheryl and her kids as well as Braxton. While I did have to miss out I was glad that everyone else was able to go since I thought mom and dad would have to miss out do to my need to get to work. 
Look, my son has already learned to help the environment by throwing away trash.
Sunday Thunderstorm
This is how Braxton and I feel about Sunday thunderstorms. Summer bliss. Amazingly this storm didn't even hit my aunt and uncle who live 2-3 miles south of Kent and I. 
You wouldn't believe it was nice enough two hours later to go to my Aunt's house and swim in her pool.
You wouldn't believe it was nice enough two hours later to go to my Aunt's house and swim in her pool.
Did I mention I love summer rain storms?
Midvale Harvest Days with Ryan Shupe and the RubberBand
Again Ryan Shupe and the RubberBand came and gave a very entertaining free concert. It was just as much fun as it has been in years past. I know that eventually they will not do this concert, but while they do I will support it because I love the entertainment!!! (pic found on www.famousmormons.net) 
Let me introduce you to my brother Erik's girlfriend Mariel here in the green. It was very fun to meet her. She is quite a lot of fun! 
This was just a really cute picture.
So cute we had to take one with all the "kids."
(except Kylie that is, she was too busy snuggling with her dad)
She made up for it being cute here.
Wow, what a messy face.
Michaela and her younger aunt Liesel (at least that what this picture would make you think)
I tried to get some pictures of firework after the concert,
Let me introduce you to my brother Erik's girlfriend Mariel here in the green. It was very fun to meet her. She is quite a lot of fun! This was just a really cute picture.
So cute we had to take one with all the "kids."(except Kylie that is, she was too busy snuggling with her dad)
She made up for it being cute here.
Wow, what a messy face.
Michaela and her younger aunt Liesel (at least that what this picture would make you think)
I tried to get some pictures of firework after the concert, but I am not as talented as many of you are.
These one's don't look like fireworks so much.
The fireworks were a lot of fun. It was funny that near the end of the fireworks show the sky opened up and poured on us. If only it could have waited 10 minutes we could have finished the fireworks, but it was kind of fun to have it downpour too. I guess someone else had his own show in mind. I love summer rain!
These one's don't look like fireworks so much.
The fireworks were a lot of fun. It was funny that near the end of the fireworks show the sky opened up and poured on us. If only it could have waited 10 minutes we could have finished the fireworks, but it was kind of fun to have it downpour too. I guess someone else had his own show in mind. I love summer rain!Our Day of Friday 8/8/08
Friday was an interesting day for having my parents in town. My friend Carrie had set up a play date at the Gateway fountain and I debated going or not going since my family was in town. I finally decided to invite them along and was informed that no one from my family would be coming. I finally decided I could either wait to see my siblings and parents later or I could go have a fun day with friends. Because of the overcast and stormy weather they changed the plans to the zoo which was just the perfect day for the zoo. It was still nice but not real hot and we only got sprinkled on a little. Here are some of the fun pictures. 
Here is the group minus me. Carrie was holding Braxton for me. There are monkey's behind them, but you can't really see them.
The kids just hangin out after the monkeys.
This was a cute picture on the elephant. Unfortunately Braxton didn't want anything to do with climbing on here and I am not a mom who believe's more in my pictures than I do in my son's feelings. He'll do things in his own time.
He did however like watching the elephants.
Braxton posing with the "horsies" or rather zebras.
This is our group waiting for the bird show. It really fun to watch. If you do make it do the zoo I recommend it. Just know that the children do need to stay seated for 25 minutes which was really difficult for Braxton, but since birds are flying just above your head it is a must!
Here is the group minus me. Carrie was holding Braxton for me. There are monkey's behind them, but you can't really see them.The kids just hangin out after the monkeys.
This was a cute picture on the elephant. Unfortunately Braxton didn't want anything to do with climbing on here and I am not a mom who believe's more in my pictures than I do in my son's feelings. He'll do things in his own time.
He did however like watching the elephants.
Braxton posing with the "horsies" or rather zebras.
This is our group waiting for the bird show. It really fun to watch. If you do make it do the zoo I recommend it. Just know that the children do need to stay seated for 25 minutes which was really difficult for Braxton, but since birds are flying just above your head it is a must! This was a beautiful Macaw
These birds are so clever. I was glad to get Brayden with the bird since a woman walked right in front of me when I tried to take Aubrey's picture with the bird.
I was surprise Braxton wasn't leary of this bird taking things from him.
These birds are so clever. I was glad to get Brayden with the bird since a woman walked right in front of me when I tried to take Aubrey's picture with the bird.
I was surprise Braxton wasn't leary of this bird taking things from him.
Later in the evening we went to Cheryl's to have dinner with the family. Braxton was trying really hard to ride the kids scooter and he actually did really well. He was able to do three or four steps in a row according to Kent.
See what a good dad Kent is? He doesn't send Braxton out to do it alone he teaches...I love that!
No wonder Braxton thinks the world of him!
What cute boys I have!
I thought this was a fun shot of Austin dunking the basketball while Brian held him up.
Way to go Austin!
I had to add this cute picture from last Tuesday. I watched kids for my friend and she has this cute little dog that Braxton just couldn't leave alone. He loves "puppies" as he calls them.
No wonder Braxton thinks the world of him!
What cute boys I have! I thought this was a fun shot of Austin dunking the basketball while Brian held him up.
Way to go Austin!
I had to add this cute picture from last Tuesday. I watched kids for my friend and she has this cute little dog that Braxton just couldn't leave alone. He loves "puppies" as he calls them.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Would You Like a Two-Year-Old?!?!?
Today has been a day of unmatchable messes. Here is the list of things that have kept me from accomplishing anything of merit other than putting things back in order after the two-year-old got to them.
*Starting the day with cereal spooned into a cup of water and back and forth until it was spilled on the table and the carpet floor.
*Next we cleaned up everything off the floor and put it back in the first aid kit Braxton decided to empty.
*Evidently taking things out of box shapped things is very fun because then I discovered he had emptied my sewing box all over my bed including the ziploc bag full of safety pins. Oh joy of joys.
*Next it was on to dumping the contents of Kent's catch-all hat on the desk. Items including coins.
*I had decided some outside time was needed so we went out and enjoyed the outdoors. I needed to go in for a few minutes so I left him out with bubbles and when I came back he was busily picking the flowers off my flower pots and making a pile on the ground.
*Lastly (at this point) I was talking with the neighbor outside and the neighbor kid came out of my house yelling that Braxton was in the bathroom playing in the water. The neighbor girl had made a fossil out of mud and leaves and Braxton had taken it into the bathroom and wet it down. That is the picture I finally took to prove how wonderful the terriffic two's have been today.
*Starting the day with cereal spooned into a cup of water and back and forth until it was spilled on the table and the carpet floor.
*Next we cleaned up everything off the floor and put it back in the first aid kit Braxton decided to empty.
*Evidently taking things out of box shapped things is very fun because then I discovered he had emptied my sewing box all over my bed including the ziploc bag full of safety pins. Oh joy of joys.
*Next it was on to dumping the contents of Kent's catch-all hat on the desk. Items including coins.
*I had decided some outside time was needed so we went out and enjoyed the outdoors. I needed to go in for a few minutes so I left him out with bubbles and when I came back he was busily picking the flowers off my flower pots and making a pile on the ground.
*Lastly (at this point) I was talking with the neighbor outside and the neighbor kid came out of my house yelling that Braxton was in the bathroom playing in the water. The neighbor girl had made a fossil out of mud and leaves and Braxton had taken it into the bathroom and wet it down. That is the picture I finally took to prove how wonderful the terriffic two's have been today.
The up side in all of this is that I have been level headed and I have not lost my cool or yelled at him (there may be one exception with the cereal this morning). I feel that with all of that I can celebrate. Amazingly I seem to be lacking the energy to get anything accomplished.
Kent's High School Reunion
This weekend was Kent's 10 year high school reunion. It was a really nice event. Saturday afternoon they all met at the park with the kids to play, visit, and eat otter pops. It was a nice afternoon. That evening we had dinner in the school cafeteria and they did some pictures following. All and all it was nice. A few things I found interesting:
~We had a prayer before dinner (that would never happen at my HS reunion) which was nice to see that these people whether religious or not were close enough to understand that there would be those who appreciated this.
~They provided old HS jerseys, letterman jackets, drill team costumes, prom dresses etc. to dress up in for pictures. A little silly, but definately could have been fun to do with a bunch of your silly girlfriends.
~Some of the people I met were very different from each other but they all seemed to enjoy one anothers company. It seems like in a smaller HS popular is not as big a barrier as in other places.
Another interesting thing about preparing for this evening was that all family members were going to be out of town that evening. Grandma and Grandpa were headed North to Kent's oldest sisters house, his brother and sister-in-law were headed up here to see her grandpa in the hospital, Kent's aunt and uncle were headed South for a baptism, of his two young male cousins one was headed north and the other was headed west out of town and I couldn't get a hold of my cousin to see if he and his wife could watch Braxton. We were quite stuck. Grandma and Aunt Heather directed Kent to a babysitter who ended up sick on Friday and called Heather to let us know. Luckily Brad had been promised the opportunity to work so they ended up waiting to go north until Sunday and so they watched him. We are so grateful they did. I think he really enjoyed being around cousins.
We had a great weekend and really enjoyed church on Sunday as well as dinner with grandma and grandpa (who came back into town Saturday night) and dessert with Kent's Uncle who was also back by Sunday. The more time I spend with family, in-laws as well as my own, the more I realize what a blessing it truly is to have family.
Apparently Braxton was protesting sleep right up until he fell asleep
I had to take these pictures of the mountains because they are SO green.
I know to you Oregonians this is barely green...
... but this is not normal for Utah mountains in the month of August
GRATITUDE AND BLESSINGS IN JULY
Thur 31 *I am thankful I was able to go to the temple and do my visiting teaching today. I definately needed to feel the wonderful spirit and the blessings of the temple.
Wed 30 *I am thankful I was able to get many things accomplished today that I had in mind to do.
Tue 29 *I am thankful for the positive choices I had made in my life so that I don't have to defend my choices when my children get older. The choice in my mind now is my choice to be modest, and I am thankful for that choice.
Mon 28 *I am thankful for a productive day and a wonderful full energy workout. It felt so good to move my body.
Sun 27 *I am grateful for repentance. The opportunity to turn back to God and aline my will with His. I am thankful for the peace it brings into my life. I am thankful the Lord is concerned enough for me to give me the messages I needed in church to help me know that I needed to repent of my mistakes.
Sat 26 *I am thankful for a great afternoon spent with my family and my fabulous neighbors Jon and Melissa. It was so nice to have Jon back and we just really enjoy them both. I am also thankful for Kent's idea to go to dinner at the Sampan restaurant in the South Towne Center. I had forgotten how good it was.
Fri 25 *I am thankful for a few hours to myself this afternoon. It was so nice to have no responsibilities but taking care of me (Thanks Nicole). I am also thankful for my adorably cute outfit I bought at work (it's even better because the pants were two sizes smaller than what I was buying this winter and the shirt was a medium instead of a large. YEAH FOR ME!)
Thurs 24 *I am thankful for my pioneer heritage and I am thankful that I can hold on to that heritage.
Wed 23 *I am thankful for the joy Braxton gets from the firetruck and train and big truck books and videos we found at the library. I am also so thankful for 2.5 lb bags of chicken I found on sale at Macey's for $4.99 a bag. I am thankful to have a great grocery store that you can count on low prices, great service and fairly fresh produce (maybe not the freshest in the valley, but try going shopping for produce in the rural areas sometime).
Tue 22 *I am thankful that Kent's cousin was willing and able to come watch Braxton while Kent and I went and bought some much needed new shoes.
Mon 21 *I am thankful for sleep and even more thankful for the blessings of living life when I have had enoough of it. I am also very grateful to have been able to attend the Days of '47 Parade Float Preview Party with my family for family night. I am also thankful I didn't have to cook and ate yummy Beijing Beef from Panda Express for the first time.
Sun 20 *I am thankful for the opportunity to share my home with others. I enjoy having my friends over and being in my home to enjoy them.
Sat 19 *I am thankful for the opportunity to finally go swimming with Kent and Braxton. Braxton loved the pool and especially loved the slide. My little boy is getting so independent that he wanted to walk all over the pool by himself. He still needs a little help when he falls, but he did pretty well.
Fri 18 *I am thankful for my memory and the ability my brain has to recall things. I just feel that I have truly been blessed with a good memory.
Thur 17 *I am thankful for wonderful mom's who can sit and visit and enjoy one another. I am thankful to be able to just sit and enjoy each other while we enjoy life and the opportunities to be mothers. It was a great day at the park and I feel so blessed to have been there with you all.
Wed 16 *I need to share my gratitude for my wonderful husband. He has been so busy lately with things to help not only me but plenty of others. To start off he skipped out on an opportunity to work Saturday morning so that he could go with Braxton and I to an all horse parade. Saturday night he cooked up about 50 lbs of hamburger for the ward party, as well as chopped 30 cups of onions. In addition to that Monday he helped the apt. manager with sprinklers. Finally he allowed Braxton and I to go swimming at the party Tuesday while he stayed back and cleaned things up so we get get home at a reasonable hour. He's such a wonderful spouse!
Tue 15 *I am so thankful for a wonderful ward party tonight. I was able to get things set up (thanks to my committee) in time to wait around for the ward to show up. In addition the Lord with held the rain so we were able to eat and swim. Also I am thankful for no yellow jackets this year. Overall it was just a great activity, and I can see that I have grown in my abilities in this calling.
Mon 14 *I am thankful for my activities committee and their willingness to help. Sister H told me that she would make all of the reminder calls for those helping out for tomorrow.
Sun 13 *I am thankful for direct revelation from the Lord. I had the great idea come to mind to add an extra flier to each sacrament program so that each family had to find one other family to give it to so they would be invited.
Sat 12 *I am thankful for the opportunity to talk with my manager at work and receive a review of my progress and the areas I need to work on. It is to nice to have feedback both good and critical so that I know where to grow and also when I am already succeeding.
Fri 11 *I am thankful the Hobson's invited us to the international jazz festival tonight. It was so much fun to sit and look around at all the people swaying and dancing. I wish I had had the courage to let loose and dance even though I was right in front. I just felt the music wanting to move me but I was too scared to be the center of attention. I am thankful for my rhythm. It's so nice to have a sense of the beat.
Thur 10 *I am thankful for a clean car, clean floors, groceries in my fridge, a clean bathroom and kitchen. I am also thankful for the time to be able to accomplish all this in one day.
Wed 9 *I am thankful for progress. Braxton may not have initiated pooping in the potty, but for the first time today he did it and I am grateful and so very proud of him.
Tue 8 *I am thankful for my knowledge of healthy eating. Tonight I asked Kent if he like the way I make taco salad better or his mom. He exclaimed he liked both because they were different. He also stated that when I make taco salad he eats healthier because it makes him eat lettuce which he is not too fond of.
Mon 7 *I am grateful for an excellent work out today as well as a nice family home evening walk.
Sun 6 *I am SO very thankful for our lesson today on patriotism. It helped me to remember my gratitude for living in this blessed free country as well as my gratitude for those who have sacrificed so much (and even their lives) so that I could have this freedom.
Sat 5 *I am thankful for a long nap after a late night. It made work possible with a long and late shift.
Fri 4 *I am thankful for my fun neighbor Melissa who was willing to come with me to the West Jordan parade this morning.
Thur 3 *I am thankful for the church magazines. Elder Ballard had a wonderful reminder of the power we have to spread the news of the Gospel to all who are within our realm even by means of the internet.
Wed 2 *I am thankful for the knowledge I have in educating young children. I am thankful for the patience I have been given to allow my son to grow and develop at a healthy rate so as not to rush him into the next stages of life.
Tue 1 *I am thankful to have possibilities of getting a monitor for less than $100 since ours has gone out. I am thankful for KSL classifieds as well as being thankful that Melissa let me use her computer to look up the monitors. (Later side note: my gratitute now is for our former bishop who gave us an old monitor that he didn't need when we told him of our lack of success with finding a monitor)
Wed 30 *I am thankful I was able to get many things accomplished today that I had in mind to do.
Tue 29 *I am thankful for the positive choices I had made in my life so that I don't have to defend my choices when my children get older. The choice in my mind now is my choice to be modest, and I am thankful for that choice.
Mon 28 *I am thankful for a productive day and a wonderful full energy workout. It felt so good to move my body.
Sun 27 *I am grateful for repentance. The opportunity to turn back to God and aline my will with His. I am thankful for the peace it brings into my life. I am thankful the Lord is concerned enough for me to give me the messages I needed in church to help me know that I needed to repent of my mistakes.
Sat 26 *I am thankful for a great afternoon spent with my family and my fabulous neighbors Jon and Melissa. It was so nice to have Jon back and we just really enjoy them both. I am also thankful for Kent's idea to go to dinner at the Sampan restaurant in the South Towne Center. I had forgotten how good it was.
Fri 25 *I am thankful for a few hours to myself this afternoon. It was so nice to have no responsibilities but taking care of me (Thanks Nicole). I am also thankful for my adorably cute outfit I bought at work (it's even better because the pants were two sizes smaller than what I was buying this winter and the shirt was a medium instead of a large. YEAH FOR ME!)
Thurs 24 *I am thankful for my pioneer heritage and I am thankful that I can hold on to that heritage.
Wed 23 *I am thankful for the joy Braxton gets from the firetruck and train and big truck books and videos we found at the library. I am also so thankful for 2.5 lb bags of chicken I found on sale at Macey's for $4.99 a bag. I am thankful to have a great grocery store that you can count on low prices, great service and fairly fresh produce (maybe not the freshest in the valley, but try going shopping for produce in the rural areas sometime).
Tue 22 *I am thankful that Kent's cousin was willing and able to come watch Braxton while Kent and I went and bought some much needed new shoes.
Mon 21 *I am thankful for sleep and even more thankful for the blessings of living life when I have had enoough of it. I am also very grateful to have been able to attend the Days of '47 Parade Float Preview Party with my family for family night. I am also thankful I didn't have to cook and ate yummy Beijing Beef from Panda Express for the first time.
Sun 20 *I am thankful for the opportunity to share my home with others. I enjoy having my friends over and being in my home to enjoy them.
Sat 19 *I am thankful for the opportunity to finally go swimming with Kent and Braxton. Braxton loved the pool and especially loved the slide. My little boy is getting so independent that he wanted to walk all over the pool by himself. He still needs a little help when he falls, but he did pretty well.
Fri 18 *I am thankful for my memory and the ability my brain has to recall things. I just feel that I have truly been blessed with a good memory.
Thur 17 *I am thankful for wonderful mom's who can sit and visit and enjoy one another. I am thankful to be able to just sit and enjoy each other while we enjoy life and the opportunities to be mothers. It was a great day at the park and I feel so blessed to have been there with you all.
Wed 16 *I need to share my gratitude for my wonderful husband. He has been so busy lately with things to help not only me but plenty of others. To start off he skipped out on an opportunity to work Saturday morning so that he could go with Braxton and I to an all horse parade. Saturday night he cooked up about 50 lbs of hamburger for the ward party, as well as chopped 30 cups of onions. In addition to that Monday he helped the apt. manager with sprinklers. Finally he allowed Braxton and I to go swimming at the party Tuesday while he stayed back and cleaned things up so we get get home at a reasonable hour. He's such a wonderful spouse!
Tue 15 *I am so thankful for a wonderful ward party tonight. I was able to get things set up (thanks to my committee) in time to wait around for the ward to show up. In addition the Lord with held the rain so we were able to eat and swim. Also I am thankful for no yellow jackets this year. Overall it was just a great activity, and I can see that I have grown in my abilities in this calling.
Mon 14 *I am thankful for my activities committee and their willingness to help. Sister H told me that she would make all of the reminder calls for those helping out for tomorrow.
Sun 13 *I am thankful for direct revelation from the Lord. I had the great idea come to mind to add an extra flier to each sacrament program so that each family had to find one other family to give it to so they would be invited.
Sat 12 *I am thankful for the opportunity to talk with my manager at work and receive a review of my progress and the areas I need to work on. It is to nice to have feedback both good and critical so that I know where to grow and also when I am already succeeding.
Fri 11 *I am thankful the Hobson's invited us to the international jazz festival tonight. It was so much fun to sit and look around at all the people swaying and dancing. I wish I had had the courage to let loose and dance even though I was right in front. I just felt the music wanting to move me but I was too scared to be the center of attention. I am thankful for my rhythm. It's so nice to have a sense of the beat.
Thur 10 *I am thankful for a clean car, clean floors, groceries in my fridge, a clean bathroom and kitchen. I am also thankful for the time to be able to accomplish all this in one day.
Wed 9 *I am thankful for progress. Braxton may not have initiated pooping in the potty, but for the first time today he did it and I am grateful and so very proud of him.
Tue 8 *I am thankful for my knowledge of healthy eating. Tonight I asked Kent if he like the way I make taco salad better or his mom. He exclaimed he liked both because they were different. He also stated that when I make taco salad he eats healthier because it makes him eat lettuce which he is not too fond of.
Mon 7 *I am grateful for an excellent work out today as well as a nice family home evening walk.
Sun 6 *I am SO very thankful for our lesson today on patriotism. It helped me to remember my gratitude for living in this blessed free country as well as my gratitude for those who have sacrificed so much (and even their lives) so that I could have this freedom.
Sat 5 *I am thankful for a long nap after a late night. It made work possible with a long and late shift.
Fri 4 *I am thankful for my fun neighbor Melissa who was willing to come with me to the West Jordan parade this morning.
Thur 3 *I am thankful for the church magazines. Elder Ballard had a wonderful reminder of the power we have to spread the news of the Gospel to all who are within our realm even by means of the internet.
Wed 2 *I am thankful for the knowledge I have in educating young children. I am thankful for the patience I have been given to allow my son to grow and develop at a healthy rate so as not to rush him into the next stages of life.
Tue 1 *I am thankful to have possibilities of getting a monitor for less than $100 since ours has gone out. I am thankful for KSL classifieds as well as being thankful that Melissa let me use her computer to look up the monitors. (Later side note: my gratitute now is for our former bishop who gave us an old monitor that he didn't need when we told him of our lack of success with finding a monitor)
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