Tuesday, October 1, 2013
On the road again!!!
School is over!
Their having a.........
Jon and Renae found out in February that they were pregnant with their second. At first they were not going to tell anyone what they were having, but finallly they did and this was how they announced the sex of the baby...its a BOY!!! Paityn was excited to participate in this announcement. Her baby is due any day now (since I am so late in posting this).
Monday, September 9, 2013
Yard project!
Lunch at Old Chicago with my girl!
Over the summer, Aubrey and I had a mother and daughter date, we went to Old Chicago...mmmmm its a great place, but better than the food, we had so much fun. She got a free meal, because they messed up her order! SCORE, plus they felt so bad they gave her a free dessert that we shared.
Grandchildren in April
We got to attend Parkers game! He is a good baseball player!
Friday, August 23, 2013
This is AUGUST...how did that happen!
This summer has gone by so fast, I have no idea what happened to it. First of all, we started out June going to the library as I promised we would. We took a quick trip to Utah for me to cut and color my hair, I also got Aubrey's hair colored and cut, Connor and Taylor's hair cut. We had a nice visit.
Then I graduated the end of June with my masters in Marriage, Family and Child therapy. I decided after all these year of going to school that taking a break was a great idea...so that is just what I did, I took the summer off to enjoy my family, without any homework, internship or even a class.
In July we went on a family vacation to St. George, but before that happened Jon and Renae moved to Utah...so we helped them unpack that truck...three days later we were off to St. George. We had a great time, it was wonderful to hang out with the family. The kids all had a great time swimming and playing with their cousins. The very last day we were there, I got so sick, I could not even get out of bed. I told Loren the night before on our way home from the St. George Temple, that I felt like I was starting to get Bronchitis, well low and behold by morning I felt like death. I coughed, and coughed, wasn't able to do anything that day.
We drove home, and I thought I was going to die coughing in the van on the way home. The next morning first thing I called the doc, who confirmed I had bronchitis...she gave me a zpack and cough syrup and set me home to drink lots of fluids and rest...that I did, a week later when the zpack was gone, I was worse than I started, so I went back to the doc where she told me I had pneumonia. That explained a lot. She put me on a steriod for a few days, a stronger antibiotic and I went back to bed.
My parents came to visit while I was sick, that was nice, that my mom was able to cook some meals and help me. I am so grateful for that.
After my parents left, school started back up.....
We also celebrated Connor's birthday, Paityn's birthday, Aubrey's birthday, Loren's and Parkers birthdays during that time...whew!
I'll try to get around to posting pictures..I'm just starting to feel normal again!
Then I graduated the end of June with my masters in Marriage, Family and Child therapy. I decided after all these year of going to school that taking a break was a great idea...so that is just what I did, I took the summer off to enjoy my family, without any homework, internship or even a class.
In July we went on a family vacation to St. George, but before that happened Jon and Renae moved to Utah...so we helped them unpack that truck...three days later we were off to St. George. We had a great time, it was wonderful to hang out with the family. The kids all had a great time swimming and playing with their cousins. The very last day we were there, I got so sick, I could not even get out of bed. I told Loren the night before on our way home from the St. George Temple, that I felt like I was starting to get Bronchitis, well low and behold by morning I felt like death. I coughed, and coughed, wasn't able to do anything that day.
We drove home, and I thought I was going to die coughing in the van on the way home. The next morning first thing I called the doc, who confirmed I had bronchitis...she gave me a zpack and cough syrup and set me home to drink lots of fluids and rest...that I did, a week later when the zpack was gone, I was worse than I started, so I went back to the doc where she told me I had pneumonia. That explained a lot. She put me on a steriod for a few days, a stronger antibiotic and I went back to bed.
My parents came to visit while I was sick, that was nice, that my mom was able to cook some meals and help me. I am so grateful for that.
After my parents left, school started back up.....
We also celebrated Connor's birthday, Paityn's birthday, Aubrey's birthday, Loren's and Parkers birthdays during that time...whew!
I'll try to get around to posting pictures..I'm just starting to feel normal again!
Friday, June 7, 2013
Its been a long time old friends!
Today is the first day of summer vacation for my children. The last few months have been so busy I can't even begin to express how little time I did have. Between school, internship, and family I have been going a million different directions.
Today to kick off our summer break I have something special planned for the kids. I know that they will be excited, but I haven't told them.
Today to kick off our summer break I have something special planned for the kids. I know that they will be excited, but I haven't told them.
We are going to the library!!! They will be excited to get their own library cards and have plenty and unlimited summer reading material!
Monday, March 25, 2013
Spring Break
Funny how snow just continues to add up outside, when its spring break for the kids. On Friday, our first day of spring break we had mild weather in the morning and early afternoon, and then we got a snow storm in that was probably our best this year, at least 12 inches of snow. We've had another mild winter, which doesn't bod well for living in a desert.
Today, as I woke up, looked out the window at the beautiful snow, the first thought I had was what a beautiful day, a fresh new day. All the white snow is like a day of renewal, and fresh new start. Wouldn't that be nice to wake up to a fresh new start everyday? I think of all the beautiful things that this life has to offer...the spring flowers are on the top of my list of things I love. I especially love tulips, they are my all time favorite flower. They just are so beautiful and vibrant with color. I love the blue sky as I look out my window I can not see a cloud in the sky, just sunshine from every angle. It makes me want to wake up, shout HOORAY for a bright new beautiful day!
These are two pictures that make me think of the things I love, spring and fresh starts. Have you ever had a day where you think, if I could only start today over? well sure you have, we all do. Today, is like a fresh start, its Monday, its the week before Easter, so many amazing reasons to allow today to be a fresh start. Winters can seem so long for some, and for others not long enough. I know for me that by April 1st, I am ready for spring flowers, spring like temperatures, and a myriad of other spring type things.
Start today, and find what makes you happy, and find what makes you want to be a better person. Its a fresh new start, a new day!
Today, as I woke up, looked out the window at the beautiful snow, the first thought I had was what a beautiful day, a fresh new day. All the white snow is like a day of renewal, and fresh new start. Wouldn't that be nice to wake up to a fresh new start everyday? I think of all the beautiful things that this life has to offer...the spring flowers are on the top of my list of things I love. I especially love tulips, they are my all time favorite flower. They just are so beautiful and vibrant with color. I love the blue sky as I look out my window I can not see a cloud in the sky, just sunshine from every angle. It makes me want to wake up, shout HOORAY for a bright new beautiful day!
Start today, and find what makes you happy, and find what makes you want to be a better person. Its a fresh new start, a new day!
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Weekend Trip to Colorado Springs
We went to Colorado Springs for the last four days, the kids went through the Betty Ford Colorado Children's Program to teach them about Addiction. This program is geared to help children understand its not their fault, and they are not alone. Although, I could not take any pictures of the kids at the program, I did take a couple when we went to dinner one night. The kids do not understand the theory behind all you can eat food bars at Golden Coral. Connor came to the table with a bowl of pepperoni, and pickles. I just shook my head. Then they found the desserts so that was the end of that.
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Aubrey's First Play!
Keeping it real
Loren's kidney is not fully functioning and his baseline is only 60%, by February his kidney was discovered to be very sick, full of puss and blood. By then the kidney was not even functioning at 60% it was far less. So, he is having to deal with a lot of issues and is in serious pain. He is trying to keep his spirits up!
This is a stint, these are placed in the ureter from the kidney to the badder to prevent swelling after surgery. Loren currently has one in to keep any stones from dropping down into the ureter, while they try to dissolve his stones. He is not a candidate for "blasting" the stones, because his stones are uric acid and not calcium. This has been a difficult few months, and we will be glad when he is feeling better.
Fun with family
Saturday, March 9, 2013
Catching up
This year has been crazy to say the least. While most of my family has been sick and trying to recover from various illnesses...I have been busy with my internship and trying to stay on top of things. I plan to post new pictures and stories in the next couple of days. Maybe even today as time permits. We are currently in the middle of a snow storm with blizzard conditions. Although we do not have a lot of snow yet, its going to pick up and gain speed today. Since I do not have my internship, and I do not have much going on, I hope to sit down and catch up my blog. I know I have been lacking in it a lot lately. Once I sit and explain all that is happening I think it will make more sense.
Happy Saturday!
Happy Saturday!
Saturday, January 5, 2013
The holidays!
I will post pictures soon, but I'll catch you up on the holidays first! Christmas was amazing! I feel so blessed to have such a wonderful family. We had a nice quiet Christmas at home, the kids and Loren and I just enjoyed the day together. BEFORE that began...Aubrey woke up at 1 am, Loren had to send her back to bed. then I had to get up at 4 to go to the bathroom and ALL three of the kids were up, lights on dog happy...I sadly made them all go back to bed too..we all fell asleep again because I woke up at 7:30 and the whole house was asleep. I got up and woke the kids up...They were so excited. I put our traditional breakfast casserole in the oven and it started cooking while we opened presents. That is the best idea my mom ever had was to make that the night before, put it in the oven before we start presents and then its usually done when we are. I LOVE IT!!!!!!
We were blessed this year, we had a great wonderful Christmas the kids got a couple of pairs of pants, a couple of shirts...and a couple of things the kids wanted it was not over kill, it was just simple, and beautiful.
We spent a couple of days after Christmas watching movies and just being together. Then Loren started going back to work, I had a procedure, and life was back going again. Until my dad was put into the ICU right after Christmas, for blood clots, stress on his heart, he had been sick a few days, his enzymes with his heart were elevated a lot. His liver function was not good. Then they realized that they (they is the hospital) were under medicating him, (this is after they over medicated him the first few nights he was in the hospital) so they stressed out his heart and he was sick because of the pain. I'm so sad my poor dad had to deal with all this, he is 74 almost 75. On Sunday before New Years dad was put in a regular room and all seemed to be going well.
On New Years Eve, Loren went back into the ER for yet more kidney stones...seriously because my dad and my husband I am about done with hearing about hospitals. Loren was so sick, the pain came on so fast he could hardly catch his breath. The missionaries from our Church gave him a priesthood blessing before he went to the hospital and blessed him he would be OK no pain and pass the stone. He has never passed a stone before, Loren passed the stone in the hospital, the scan showed that the stone had passed. His pain stopped and he was sent home, got home 30 minutes before the ball dropped!!! So we gathered our family around just before midnight, poured sparkling cider, said a prayer and watched the new year ring in! It was sweet!
On January 2nd we went to see a specialist..Loren's kidney issues have caused him to have to reduce his sodium to 2,000 mg a day (a teaspoon has 2,300 mg in it) and a low protein diet..I have no idea how to cook anymore. After all the tests blood and urine done we are now dealing with this whole lifestyle change...I am feeling old now. I'd love ideas...I am looking into a more plant based diet for all of us. Yes we all need to lose weight so this is not necessarily a bad thing, but its a HUGE change!!
So, that about catches everything up. I'll post pictures soon!
We were blessed this year, we had a great wonderful Christmas the kids got a couple of pairs of pants, a couple of shirts...and a couple of things the kids wanted it was not over kill, it was just simple, and beautiful.
We spent a couple of days after Christmas watching movies and just being together. Then Loren started going back to work, I had a procedure, and life was back going again. Until my dad was put into the ICU right after Christmas, for blood clots, stress on his heart, he had been sick a few days, his enzymes with his heart were elevated a lot. His liver function was not good. Then they realized that they (they is the hospital) were under medicating him, (this is after they over medicated him the first few nights he was in the hospital) so they stressed out his heart and he was sick because of the pain. I'm so sad my poor dad had to deal with all this, he is 74 almost 75. On Sunday before New Years dad was put in a regular room and all seemed to be going well.
On New Years Eve, Loren went back into the ER for yet more kidney stones...seriously because my dad and my husband I am about done with hearing about hospitals. Loren was so sick, the pain came on so fast he could hardly catch his breath. The missionaries from our Church gave him a priesthood blessing before he went to the hospital and blessed him he would be OK no pain and pass the stone. He has never passed a stone before, Loren passed the stone in the hospital, the scan showed that the stone had passed. His pain stopped and he was sent home, got home 30 minutes before the ball dropped!!! So we gathered our family around just before midnight, poured sparkling cider, said a prayer and watched the new year ring in! It was sweet!
On January 2nd we went to see a specialist..Loren's kidney issues have caused him to have to reduce his sodium to 2,000 mg a day (a teaspoon has 2,300 mg in it) and a low protein diet..I have no idea how to cook anymore. After all the tests blood and urine done we are now dealing with this whole lifestyle change...I am feeling old now. I'd love ideas...I am looking into a more plant based diet for all of us. Yes we all need to lose weight so this is not necessarily a bad thing, but its a HUGE change!!
So, that about catches everything up. I'll post pictures soon!
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Its beginning to look a lot like Christmas
Two days ago we had a blizzard blow through here, not a ton of snow, but the wind was blowing what we recieved all over the place. We have snow, and that is exciting since its almost Christmas! Today the kids decided to take advantage of it and went out in the yard to sled. It was so nice to watch them get out and enjoy the snow, then come in and have a cup of hot chcolate.
Loren is feeling so much better now!! Its nice having him back again! My father was transfered to a hospital near their home and he is doing much better too, they have him getting up, he might night like it but he is working hard so that he can go back home.
I am done with all my Christmas shopping, I might do some more baking now that we're all doing better, the kids would love to make some sugar cookies, and I am going to make some fudge too.
I love that it is supposed to snow on Christmas Eve and Christmas day...its beginning to look a lot like Christmas!
Loren is feeling so much better now!! Its nice having him back again! My father was transfered to a hospital near their home and he is doing much better too, they have him getting up, he might night like it but he is working hard so that he can go back home.
I am done with all my Christmas shopping, I might do some more baking now that we're all doing better, the kids would love to make some sugar cookies, and I am going to make some fudge too.
I love that it is supposed to snow on Christmas Eve and Christmas day...its beginning to look a lot like Christmas!
Sunday, December 16, 2012
More sad news
Today we received an email from Taylor's elementary school principle, she said that a boy in Taylor's first grade class died expectantly. So now after the last week we've had we have to help our daughter deal and heal from a boy in her class that passed away. Taylor said that she sat right next to him, and he was absent because he was sick. The email said that he got sick on Friday and died on Saturday.
As I take a deep breath and regroup, I am going to not only hug my sweet daughter a little more. I am going to take this all in and realize how short life is, and how much we have the responsibility to create happiness and love, to create good memories for ourselves and and our family. I will take this as a sign to stop worrying about the little things and focus on what is most important in this life.
Christmas is a great time to reflect on good times, family and home. This last week has been an emotional roller coaster. I will teach my children to be kind, loving and do good. I want for them to be good people!
As I take a deep breath and regroup, I am going to not only hug my sweet daughter a little more. I am going to take this all in and realize how short life is, and how much we have the responsibility to create happiness and love, to create good memories for ourselves and and our family. I will take this as a sign to stop worrying about the little things and focus on what is most important in this life.
Christmas is a great time to reflect on good times, family and home. This last week has been an emotional roller coaster. I will teach my children to be kind, loving and do good. I want for them to be good people!
Saturday, December 15, 2012
It comes in three's
Seven weeks ago when my husband had his kidney stone surgery, we were told that the doctor couldn't reach the one 4.5 stone still in his kidney. After a week long healing the stint was removed that was placed in his uritor. It is a painful time for Loren, the week after surgery, not painful in a kidney stone sort of way, but the stint is uncomfortable and causes irritation.
The last week was crazy, I had my internship, and my Paparazzi Jewelry event/open house. On Wednesday night my husband said at dinner that his right stomach area under his ribs was bugging him...which is where his last kindney stone started. We waved that off and two hours later he says that he had a trace of blood in his urin...WHAT THE WHAT? My event started Thursday morning and I did not have time for this. My open house was from 10-2 and 7-9. At 11 am Loren came home sicker than a dog, his kidney stone was on the move and he was hurting. I quickly called his doctor and waiting for him to call back. Meanwhile Loren took some meds and laid down (I keep the christmas music up just a little louder than I would havve normally, since I knew he was getting sick. I didnt' want my clients to hear!
I called the doctor three times and finally on the fourth call they put me right through to his nurse and I even was able to talk to his PA. he finally headed over to the Emergency Room at 2:00 pm. He drove himself because I had people at the house and couldn't leave, plus my friend hard her Mary Kay set up too. Loren ended up spending the night at the hospital. The next day I brought the kids up to see him before his surgery. He was in bad shape, so I took the kids to school, they were crying, I was crying they broke my heart. I wanted to keep them with me, but I couldn't because I did not have anyone to take them. I wish we lived near family.
I went back to the hospital and got there just as he was taken down to preop. I was able to go back to be with him. This time my heart was heavy, I felt like somthing wasn't right. The doctor came in, scared me to death. He said that he still might not be able to get the stone since it was high and there is a possiblity that the uritor could tear, if that happens he would have to open Loren up and then the healing process would be longer. He thought he was going to get out of the hospital that same night. His surgery was at 3:15. My sweet friend Mary Ann picked up my children she has been so good to me over the years.
As I was sitting in the waiting room waiting for Loren to get out of surgery, I was so upset, I kept crying and could not get control of myself. Loren's boss called and I could not even talk. I'm sure he was thinking that its just a silly kidney stone. I still felt like something was not right. When the surgery was over the doctor said that everything went great, he was going to discharge loren, but it wasn't up to him it was up to the department that was over him.
Ends up that Loren stopped breathing several times during surgery. There seems to be something about being married a long time, we become in sync and I always know when he is in danger and he knows when things aren't right for me. Loren stayed the night at the hospital. I finally left at 8 to go get the kids and let the dog out. After Loren got in a room the kids and I went up there to see him. It was so good to let them see him better than he was that morning.
That was Friday, December 7. On Monday, December 10th my parents were at the mall where they live and while crossing from the mall into the parking lot a car came around the corner and was headed right for my parents, my dad who does not move fast tried to hurry in his own way. He ended up stumbling over some sort of a cover in the road not a manhole cover, but something of that sort which is not flush with the road. So, he triped and while trying to catch himself he hit their car hard, then the bumper and then the road. Cars stopped to help my parents, and ambulance was called. My nephew ran into the mall to get the fire men that had just walked into go to Starbucks, and so now my father is in the hospital with a left broken shoulder that splintered four ways, one of those splinters impelled into his ball socket in his shoulder. He had a five and a half hour surgery to replace his shoulder. On Tuesday my dad was talking and doing well, on Wednesday they over medicated him. On Thursday they did the surgery and on Friday they did the same mistake and gave him the same meds again that he had a reaction to. Is like one thing after another. My dad has been complaining that his right shoulder hurts since he got to the hospital, but nobody listened last night we found out he has a broken right shoulder too.
I really wonder about the level of care he has been given, here he is a veteran of 30 years in the military and he can't find decent care.
This week has been so emotional for me, I feel so torn because my husband needs me, he is not well he goes into the doctor on Monday for the removal of his stint, which is causing him all kinds of fits. And torn because I want to be with my parents and sisters to watch over my dad. I hate living so far away. I miss my family, I miss my kids, and grandkids. I hate, hate, hate that we live so far away from everyone we love.
Today, I spent the day and made cookies and did some Christmas baking just to have some joy! The kids were so funny, we started baking did one batch of nobake cookies, and some kiss cookies and they asked if they could go play outside. At first I was going to say no because we were baking and then I just realized that they needed to go be kids. The news yesterday of the shooting in CT broke my heart as I watched the numbers climb of little children who were injured. I have a six year old, she was just in Kindergarten last year and is in first grade this year...this hit so, so close to home for me.
Ok, I have rambled on and on about several topics, but they are all weighing on my heart. I do feel blessed because my family is alive and well. I feel blessed that my dad is alive and that he will recover from this.
The last week was crazy, I had my internship, and my Paparazzi Jewelry event/open house. On Wednesday night my husband said at dinner that his right stomach area under his ribs was bugging him...which is where his last kindney stone started. We waved that off and two hours later he says that he had a trace of blood in his urin...WHAT THE WHAT? My event started Thursday morning and I did not have time for this. My open house was from 10-2 and 7-9. At 11 am Loren came home sicker than a dog, his kidney stone was on the move and he was hurting. I quickly called his doctor and waiting for him to call back. Meanwhile Loren took some meds and laid down (I keep the christmas music up just a little louder than I would havve normally, since I knew he was getting sick. I didnt' want my clients to hear!
I called the doctor three times and finally on the fourth call they put me right through to his nurse and I even was able to talk to his PA. he finally headed over to the Emergency Room at 2:00 pm. He drove himself because I had people at the house and couldn't leave, plus my friend hard her Mary Kay set up too. Loren ended up spending the night at the hospital. The next day I brought the kids up to see him before his surgery. He was in bad shape, so I took the kids to school, they were crying, I was crying they broke my heart. I wanted to keep them with me, but I couldn't because I did not have anyone to take them. I wish we lived near family.
I went back to the hospital and got there just as he was taken down to preop. I was able to go back to be with him. This time my heart was heavy, I felt like somthing wasn't right. The doctor came in, scared me to death. He said that he still might not be able to get the stone since it was high and there is a possiblity that the uritor could tear, if that happens he would have to open Loren up and then the healing process would be longer. He thought he was going to get out of the hospital that same night. His surgery was at 3:15. My sweet friend Mary Ann picked up my children she has been so good to me over the years.
As I was sitting in the waiting room waiting for Loren to get out of surgery, I was so upset, I kept crying and could not get control of myself. Loren's boss called and I could not even talk. I'm sure he was thinking that its just a silly kidney stone. I still felt like something was not right. When the surgery was over the doctor said that everything went great, he was going to discharge loren, but it wasn't up to him it was up to the department that was over him.
Ends up that Loren stopped breathing several times during surgery. There seems to be something about being married a long time, we become in sync and I always know when he is in danger and he knows when things aren't right for me. Loren stayed the night at the hospital. I finally left at 8 to go get the kids and let the dog out. After Loren got in a room the kids and I went up there to see him. It was so good to let them see him better than he was that morning.
That was Friday, December 7. On Monday, December 10th my parents were at the mall where they live and while crossing from the mall into the parking lot a car came around the corner and was headed right for my parents, my dad who does not move fast tried to hurry in his own way. He ended up stumbling over some sort of a cover in the road not a manhole cover, but something of that sort which is not flush with the road. So, he triped and while trying to catch himself he hit their car hard, then the bumper and then the road. Cars stopped to help my parents, and ambulance was called. My nephew ran into the mall to get the fire men that had just walked into go to Starbucks, and so now my father is in the hospital with a left broken shoulder that splintered four ways, one of those splinters impelled into his ball socket in his shoulder. He had a five and a half hour surgery to replace his shoulder. On Tuesday my dad was talking and doing well, on Wednesday they over medicated him. On Thursday they did the surgery and on Friday they did the same mistake and gave him the same meds again that he had a reaction to. Is like one thing after another. My dad has been complaining that his right shoulder hurts since he got to the hospital, but nobody listened last night we found out he has a broken right shoulder too.
I really wonder about the level of care he has been given, here he is a veteran of 30 years in the military and he can't find decent care.
This week has been so emotional for me, I feel so torn because my husband needs me, he is not well he goes into the doctor on Monday for the removal of his stint, which is causing him all kinds of fits. And torn because I want to be with my parents and sisters to watch over my dad. I hate living so far away. I miss my family, I miss my kids, and grandkids. I hate, hate, hate that we live so far away from everyone we love.
Today, I spent the day and made cookies and did some Christmas baking just to have some joy! The kids were so funny, we started baking did one batch of nobake cookies, and some kiss cookies and they asked if they could go play outside. At first I was going to say no because we were baking and then I just realized that they needed to go be kids. The news yesterday of the shooting in CT broke my heart as I watched the numbers climb of little children who were injured. I have a six year old, she was just in Kindergarten last year and is in first grade this year...this hit so, so close to home for me.
Ok, I have rambled on and on about several topics, but they are all weighing on my heart. I do feel blessed because my family is alive and well. I feel blessed that my dad is alive and that he will recover from this.
Friday, November 23, 2012
Thankful November, day 22
Today is thanksgiving. I have thought about what I am thankful for this whole month and I do have to say that my family is all safe, everyone is warm, I have beautiful children and grandchildren. I am so blessed to have such a diverse group of children. I love them all!
I am missing being close to my parents and siblings. I hope that next year I can be closer. I am so thankful for all they do for me!
I am missing being close to my parents and siblings. I hope that next year I can be closer. I am so thankful for all they do for me!
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Thankful November, Day 21
I'm thankful for Marie Callender pies, she really does make some pies better than I do! I tried to make a homemade pecan pie tonight, and it boiled all over the oven, it smoked us out of our home. I nearly died, what a disaster. So, I must say to go along with that I am thankful for self-cleaning ovens even though they stink, It cleaned up my sticky mess in my oven!
Monday, November 19, 2012
Thankful November, Day 19
Today my heart turns to my parents who have been without power for 18 hours, they live on the cost in Oregon and have been hit hard by storms. Since they are in their mid 70s, I am worried about them. I am thankful for modern techonology that allows me to still talk to my parents. I am thankful for electricity, because without the invention of electricity I would not enjoy the lights and warmth I take for granted.
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Thankful November, Day 18
Today I am thankful because I know that my family can be together forever!
Thankful November, Day 17
Today, I am thankful for the National Adoption day, I am thankful for adoptions. Thankful that we adopted three of the most amazing children EVER!
Loren and I have been so blessed since we have had these children three and a half years ago. I find that these children have enriched my life to a degree I could not have ever imagined. I thank God everyday for them!
Loren and I have been so blessed since we have had these children three and a half years ago. I find that these children have enriched my life to a degree I could not have ever imagined. I thank God everyday for them!
Friday, November 16, 2012
Thankful November, Day 16
I am thankful for my home, for the warmed in my home. I am thankful that my husband is able to provide our family with a place to live and be comfortable and safe. So many people are without homes now, without warmth. I am so lucky and blessed to have a home and all that I have inside my home.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Thankful November, Day 15
Today I am thankful and blessed that my husband listens to impressions. This morning I was about to leave for my internship, I was going to take my husband's car because he was going to take the kids to school and pick them up. At the last minute he decided to take his own car and put Taylor's car seat in his car. While at my internship I got a message from my husband that after he dropped the kids up and was headed to work, he had a flat tire. Not only did he have a flat, his tire shredded. It would have happened to me, because I drove father than he would have that morning. He ended up getting four new tires, which he did need. I feel so blessed, that I was not behind the wheel when his tire blew.
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Thankful November, Day 14
Today I am thankful for my van. I think sometimes I take for granted that I have such modern convinces, but today I remembered what my ancestors had to do when they wanted to travel...by horse and buggy, or just horse. by railroad, or boat, or even by walking. I am so thankful that I do not have to walk everywhere I go!
I'm thankful that I was born in a modern era.
I'm thankful that I was born in a modern era.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Thankful November, Day 13
Today, I am thankful for all my children. My children might not always do everything I would like them to do, but they are my children and I love them all.
When my oldest Matthew was born he brought so much joy into my life. I never thought I would have so much love to give. He was my first born and there is something special about first borns. I have missed those times when my kids were younger.
Danielle was such a blessing in my life, when she was born she was such a perfect baby, nobody was more perfect than Danielle. She played well, slept well and she taught Matthew how to play with his toys. They were the best of friends, just amazing! Danielle has taught me many lessons. One of those lessons is to be patient and wait for the Lords timing. I'm waiting!
Laura was born and I was so happy, we were such poor students at the time, but she was such a happy baby. The kids loved her, she was so perfect. She makes my heart happy to see her today as a beautiful wife and mother. She knows that life isn't easy, but she keeps herself grounded and keeps trying.
Jon was my baby for so long, he will always be my baby in my heart. I feel so blessed to have him as a son. He has so many goals in life, and he does not let anything stand in his way..there is something to be admired about that. Jon has had his share of challenges too just like all the other kids, but he has risen above all that, he has a beautiful wife and daughter who amazing me every day!
Aubrey is the most amazing daughter of God I have ever had the opportunity to raise, she is grounded in life, she has such amazing values. She is smart and beautiful. I'm blessed to call her my daughter.
Connor is the sweetest boy you can know. His heart is so full and always in the right place. He is all boy, he loves bugs, and snakes, and all kinds of creepy things. At the end of the day he is such a good boy!
Taylor has the best Taylor kisses and huges. She is a lover, she loves her daddy and its so sweet to see them sitting on the couch while she reads to him. Its fun to see her just growing up and becoming a beautiful girl. She is now my baby, but oh so much fun to have at home.
I love all my children they range in age from 31-6, but they are amazing! I wouldn't trade it for anything else...
When my oldest Matthew was born he brought so much joy into my life. I never thought I would have so much love to give. He was my first born and there is something special about first borns. I have missed those times when my kids were younger.
Danielle was such a blessing in my life, when she was born she was such a perfect baby, nobody was more perfect than Danielle. She played well, slept well and she taught Matthew how to play with his toys. They were the best of friends, just amazing! Danielle has taught me many lessons. One of those lessons is to be patient and wait for the Lords timing. I'm waiting!
Laura was born and I was so happy, we were such poor students at the time, but she was such a happy baby. The kids loved her, she was so perfect. She makes my heart happy to see her today as a beautiful wife and mother. She knows that life isn't easy, but she keeps herself grounded and keeps trying.
Jon was my baby for so long, he will always be my baby in my heart. I feel so blessed to have him as a son. He has so many goals in life, and he does not let anything stand in his way..there is something to be admired about that. Jon has had his share of challenges too just like all the other kids, but he has risen above all that, he has a beautiful wife and daughter who amazing me every day!
Aubrey is the most amazing daughter of God I have ever had the opportunity to raise, she is grounded in life, she has such amazing values. She is smart and beautiful. I'm blessed to call her my daughter.
Connor is the sweetest boy you can know. His heart is so full and always in the right place. He is all boy, he loves bugs, and snakes, and all kinds of creepy things. At the end of the day he is such a good boy!
Taylor has the best Taylor kisses and huges. She is a lover, she loves her daddy and its so sweet to see them sitting on the couch while she reads to him. Its fun to see her just growing up and becoming a beautiful girl. She is now my baby, but oh so much fun to have at home.
I love all my children they range in age from 31-6, but they are amazing! I wouldn't trade it for anything else...
Monday, November 12, 2012
Thankful November, Day 12
Today I am so thankful for my jewelry business. I have the best time selling $5 jewelry that is trendy and fun...I haven't ever met anyone who didn't like my stuff and all the girls signed up under me to sell it, they are all doing awesome! I am so thankful for a business that helps me earn extra money and do it by having fun! I love that the jewelry is trendy.
I'm thankful before I get to wear some of the best jewelry and everyone has wonderful compliments!
My life is good and I am so blessed!
I'm thankful before I get to wear some of the best jewelry and everyone has wonderful compliments!
My life is good and I am so blessed!
Thankful November, Day 11
Today, the kids and I stayed home from church because three of the four of us had sick tummies. I am so thankful that nobody threw up. I have such a phobia about throw up...to the point that I can not be near anyone who is sick, I will run the other way...lliterally!
I have thought about how lucky and blessed I have been through the years. Today, I am thankful that I have had pretty healthy children for the last 31 years. I am thankful that none of my children have had any serious health issues, I just wrote that I was thankful that we have never had a broken bone, but then i remembered my son Jon who broke his ankle when he was young playing football. He was on crutches for 6 weeks and then in a walking cast for another two weeks. That was a long time for a young boy! Otherwise, we have not had anyone other broken bones. We have had lots of stitches though.
I am blessed!
I have thought about how lucky and blessed I have been through the years. Today, I am thankful that I have had pretty healthy children for the last 31 years. I am thankful that none of my children have had any serious health issues, I just wrote that I was thankful that we have never had a broken bone, but then i remembered my son Jon who broke his ankle when he was young playing football. He was on crutches for 6 weeks and then in a walking cast for another two weeks. That was a long time for a young boy! Otherwise, we have not had anyone other broken bones. We have had lots of stitches though.
I am blessed!
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Thankful November, Day 10
Today, I am thankful for all the people I know who are incredibly talented. We went to a friends house last night, she is an incredible pianist and her husband is an artist. A group of invited people sat and listened to her play Chopin and then we had a silent auction for his art work. I was so blown away how they intertwine their crafts and are able to both work from home.
Everyone has talents of one kind or another, but this lady teaches my children piano, she has taught them more in two and a half years than my older chidlren learned the whole time. I am blown away at how beautiful the music sounds when its played right. She is an amazing teacher and my kids love going to piano because they are able to spend 30 minute each being tutored by the best.
She would absolutely be one of the reasons I would hate moving and one of the people I would miss the most. She has been such a huge support to my sweet children.
I used to play the clarinet...I was super good in Junior high school (for junior high), I was ok in high school...but I haven't touched my clarinet n years (literally, my sister has it). I sang int he choir in high school. I can type fairly fast, but I never proof..hahahah!
Just makes you think of what talent do we have? Do you know what your talent is?
Everyone has talents of one kind or another, but this lady teaches my children piano, she has taught them more in two and a half years than my older chidlren learned the whole time. I am blown away at how beautiful the music sounds when its played right. She is an amazing teacher and my kids love going to piano because they are able to spend 30 minute each being tutored by the best.
She would absolutely be one of the reasons I would hate moving and one of the people I would miss the most. She has been such a huge support to my sweet children.
I used to play the clarinet...I was super good in Junior high school (for junior high), I was ok in high school...but I haven't touched my clarinet n years (literally, my sister has it). I sang int he choir in high school. I can type fairly fast, but I never proof..hahahah!
Just makes you think of what talent do we have? Do you know what your talent is?
Thankful November, Day 9
Today I am thankful for all of my ten grandchildren. Really there are only seven now, because we adopted three of them. I am so thankful for their life and that I am able to be their grandmother. I know that I am not always there with them, but they are always in my heart.
When Aubrey was born, she was a plump beautiful baby, I'm so glad that she is now my daughter.
Michael is growing up so fast, he is a smart boy who loves sports, video games and probably stuff I don't even know..I am sad I can't see him often.
Connor is such a sweet boy, who has a heart of gold. Connor loves insects, and the genus book of world records. I am so thankful to call him my son!
Saryah just turned 8 and is sweet as can be, she always tells me like it is! Saryah is a girlie girl!
Taylor loves anything dolls, she can play with her "babies' for hours without realizing it. I am so thankful she is my daughter
Aurellia is the funniest girl, she stands up for herself. She has curly hair and is the and has the best smile, even her eyes smile.
Ryder is so special, he was born with a hole in his diaphragm he had a seriously rough start to life, but he is five now and doing so well. He's a survivor!
Parker is a go getter, he is going strong all day long. He is happy and loves blue and dinosaurs.
Paige has the cutest little smile, and the loudest scream ever! She came where our family needed some joy, she is her mom and dad's bundle of sunshine.
Paityn is such a happy 1 year old, I miss her so much. She loves, her dogs, books and big smiles!
I am so thankful for these sweet children, I wish we lived closer to all of them so I can be a bigger part of their life.
When Aubrey was born, she was a plump beautiful baby, I'm so glad that she is now my daughter.
Michael is growing up so fast, he is a smart boy who loves sports, video games and probably stuff I don't even know..I am sad I can't see him often.
Connor is such a sweet boy, who has a heart of gold. Connor loves insects, and the genus book of world records. I am so thankful to call him my son!
Saryah just turned 8 and is sweet as can be, she always tells me like it is! Saryah is a girlie girl!
Taylor loves anything dolls, she can play with her "babies' for hours without realizing it. I am so thankful she is my daughter
Aurellia is the funniest girl, she stands up for herself. She has curly hair and is the and has the best smile, even her eyes smile.
Ryder is so special, he was born with a hole in his diaphragm he had a seriously rough start to life, but he is five now and doing so well. He's a survivor!
Parker is a go getter, he is going strong all day long. He is happy and loves blue and dinosaurs.
Paige has the cutest little smile, and the loudest scream ever! She came where our family needed some joy, she is her mom and dad's bundle of sunshine.
Paityn is such a happy 1 year old, I miss her so much. She loves, her dogs, books and big smiles!
I am so thankful for these sweet children, I wish we lived closer to all of them so I can be a bigger part of their life.
Friday, November 9, 2012
Thankful November, Day 8
Today I am grateful for my education. When I graduated from high school I just wanted to get married, and have a family. I never thought that I should go to college, a career was not something that I sought after. When we moved to Colorado seven years ago I decided that it was now or never. So, I registered for school, and with total faith I took the plunged to start my education. I graduated with my undergrad degree in July 2010 and two weeks later I started my masters and will finish that up in June 2013.
I am not sure I am ready to take on the world in the work force, but I am so ready to be finished with school. I am thankful for the education I have, the friends I made in school and those who have taugh me to love learning.
I could not think of a better way to improve me!
My life is blessed!
I am not sure I am ready to take on the world in the work force, but I am so ready to be finished with school. I am thankful for the education I have, the friends I made in school and those who have taugh me to love learning.
I could not think of a better way to improve me!
My life is blessed!
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Thankful November, Day 7
Today, was our puppies first birthday, so I am so thankful for having her in our home. She is such a sweet dog, she is so good. Our kids have taught her so many tricks, she even knows how to pray. Its the best! I'm thankful that the week we adopted her, and surprised the kids. Today as I was tucking Aubrey into bed, she said Shadow is so happy mom, its the best day ever! ;-) I love that these kids have such joy in their life.
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Thankful November, Day 6
I am thankful for today for many, many reasons! First I am thankful for my freedom I have and the right I have to vote.
I voted last week to avoid the lines, it was fabulous! I am thankful for our founding fathers who set up this great land. I love America, and want to preserve it. I see so many negative things on facebook, and television adds. Living in Colorado a swing state has been difficult to say the least.
I am second most thankful for the fact that the election will be over today, good or bad, I am ready to move past the television adds and the phone calls. I unplugged my house phone last week, I plug it in long enough to check messages, that's it.
Thankful Tuesday, vote if you haven't. Because if you do not vote, you have no right to say anything! My political views are my own, but I will say...I am ready for change!
I am second most thankful for the fact that the election will be over today, good or bad, I am ready to move past the television adds and the phone calls. I unplugged my house phone last week, I plug it in long enough to check messages, that's it.
Thankful Tuesday, vote if you haven't. Because if you do not vote, you have no right to say anything! My political views are my own, but I will say...I am ready for change!
Monday, November 5, 2012
Thankful November, Day 5
Today, I am thankful for my husband's employment. I have to say, he has never been unemployed in all the years we have been married. I've never had to worry about where the paycheck was coming from, I've never worried about health insurance. I feel so blessed that Loren has always been able to provide for our family, that I haven't had to work except for the time he was in college. Otherwise, my working has always been volunteer.
When Loren was in college, he was not in the military anymore, but he was on an Army ROTC scholarship which was employment for our family, we did not have health insurance during that three years from the military, but we had Medicaid. I worked part time to help make ends meet and used other creative financing like food stamps, WIC, and the HEAT program in Utah. with the exception of this three year period of time, we have always had employment, and insurance.
I do feel blessed that we we have had a blessed life. I do know that the fact that Loren's never been on unemployment is an even bigger blessing, especially with the economy today where so many find themselves unemployed.
I am thankful for the stability that employment has brought our family. I am thankful that Loren has never sought big business, or corporate America.
God blesses our life in ways I can not even comprehend.
When Loren was in college, he was not in the military anymore, but he was on an Army ROTC scholarship which was employment for our family, we did not have health insurance during that three years from the military, but we had Medicaid. I worked part time to help make ends meet and used other creative financing like food stamps, WIC, and the HEAT program in Utah. with the exception of this three year period of time, we have always had employment, and insurance.
I do feel blessed that we we have had a blessed life. I do know that the fact that Loren's never been on unemployment is an even bigger blessing, especially with the economy today where so many find themselves unemployed.
I am thankful for the stability that employment has brought our family. I am thankful that Loren has never sought big business, or corporate America.
God blesses our life in ways I can not even comprehend.
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Thankful November, Day 4
Today, I am thankful for our modern conveniences. My son was traveling and had a two hour layover in Denver. My family was able to go to the airport and sit with him for an hour and a half. We had such a great time with him. I am thankful for Airplanes that bring loved ones closer to home.
Jon has not been in Denver since 2008, so it was fun to visit with him, here about his goals for his family, for his wife and daughter. I love my family!
Jon has not been in Denver since 2008, so it was fun to visit with him, here about his goals for his family, for his wife and daughter. I love my family!
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Thankful November, Day 3
Today, I am most grateful for my husband. I do not give him near enough credit for all he does for me. I sometimes take him for granted and just expect him to be there when I need him. However, for the last 32 years of marriage, through thick and thin, he has stood by my side and fought for me. He has been there for all my success and failures, for all my trails and victories.
We were just kids when we got married, I had just graduated from high school, and he was in the Army. Here we are 32 years later with seven children and ten grandchildren. Life isn't perfect, but it is good! In the last few years I have grown to have a deeper love for my husband than I ever thought possible. I feel so blessed to be part of a union where love is abundant.
We were just kids when we got married, I had just graduated from high school, and he was in the Army. Here we are 32 years later with seven children and ten grandchildren. Life isn't perfect, but it is good! In the last few years I have grown to have a deeper love for my husband than I ever thought possible. I feel so blessed to be part of a union where love is abundant.
Thankful November, Day 2
Today, I am most grateful for finding out that I was accepted for an internship. I have worked hard over the last 7 years to go to school and in the eleventh hour I was accepted into an internship program...happy dance here!
I started my schooling when we first moved here, and over the course of the last 7 years I have finished my undergraduate degree and my masters degree, the only thing standing between me and my diploma for my masters is an 8 month internship...and today, I found out that I was accepted to one that is a great fit for me.
My masters is in Marriage, Family and Child therapy, I am so happy to be done with all the bookwork. Going to school for 7 straight years was a lot of work, besides that it was a lot of time and money.
I am thankful for my internship, but I am also thankful for my husband who has supported me through all this, he has been there for me when I wasn't even there for me. We have had so much going on over the last 7 years, moving to Colorado, three of my adult children got married, ten grandchildren, adopting three of my grandchildren and yet still finishing my masters. I'm not sure if I should laugh or cry, but I did it!
I could not be thankful for all this without recognizing my loving Father in Heaven who has guided me throughout the whole process and allowed me to become the woman that I have. I am so blessed.
I started my schooling when we first moved here, and over the course of the last 7 years I have finished my undergraduate degree and my masters degree, the only thing standing between me and my diploma for my masters is an 8 month internship...and today, I found out that I was accepted to one that is a great fit for me.
My masters is in Marriage, Family and Child therapy, I am so happy to be done with all the bookwork. Going to school for 7 straight years was a lot of work, besides that it was a lot of time and money.
I am thankful for my internship, but I am also thankful for my husband who has supported me through all this, he has been there for me when I wasn't even there for me. We have had so much going on over the last 7 years, moving to Colorado, three of my adult children got married, ten grandchildren, adopting three of my grandchildren and yet still finishing my masters. I'm not sure if I should laugh or cry, but I did it!
I could not be thankful for all this without recognizing my loving Father in Heaven who has guided me throughout the whole process and allowed me to become the woman that I have. I am so blessed.
Friday, November 2, 2012
Thankful November Day 1
I have thought about what I would say for the month of November, and how I would translate that into what I am thankful for this month. I have spent so many years being thankful for everything in my life. I find it is time to become specific in my thankful feelings.
Day 1
Today, I am thankful for my life, I am so thankful for a loving mother and father who have been such an example to me of love and charity. My parents never held me back as a young girl, they always encouraged me to be the best person I could be and to follow my dreams. With out my mother and father I would of course not be here on this earth.
I realize that coming here to earth is a choice, I made the choice in heaven to follow Jesus Christ. I came here on this earth to gain a body, to be tested and tried. I am here to find out why I am here..
"Have you ever thought there must be something more to life than just living day to day? There is—much more. Your life has a divine purpose.
God, your Heavenly Father, has prepared a marvelous plan for your happiness. When you realize that God has a plan for you, it is easier to understand why you are on this earth. God wants all of His children to progress and become more like Him. This time on Earth provides opportunities for you to grow and progress. Coming here allows you to:
■Receive a physical body.
■Exercise agency and learn to choose between good and evil.
■Learn and gain experience that will help you become more like your Heavenly Father.
■Form family relationships that may become eternal.
By following our Heavenly Father’s plan, you—like all of His children—can someday return to live with Him and with your loved ones. You can have greater peace in this life and eternal joy in the life to come. " (Find this information here)
Why am I thankful for my life? Because although my life is not perfect, I have had a very good life. I have had traveled far and wide, I have been married to the same man for 32 years, have seven children, and seven grandchildren. My life although not perfect, is amazing.
Day 1
Today, I am thankful for my life, I am so thankful for a loving mother and father who have been such an example to me of love and charity. My parents never held me back as a young girl, they always encouraged me to be the best person I could be and to follow my dreams. With out my mother and father I would of course not be here on this earth.
I realize that coming here to earth is a choice, I made the choice in heaven to follow Jesus Christ. I came here on this earth to gain a body, to be tested and tried. I am here to find out why I am here..
"Have you ever thought there must be something more to life than just living day to day? There is—much more. Your life has a divine purpose.
God, your Heavenly Father, has prepared a marvelous plan for your happiness. When you realize that God has a plan for you, it is easier to understand why you are on this earth. God wants all of His children to progress and become more like Him. This time on Earth provides opportunities for you to grow and progress. Coming here allows you to:
■Receive a physical body.
■Exercise agency and learn to choose between good and evil.
■Learn and gain experience that will help you become more like your Heavenly Father.
■Form family relationships that may become eternal.
By following our Heavenly Father’s plan, you—like all of His children—can someday return to live with Him and with your loved ones. You can have greater peace in this life and eternal joy in the life to come. " (Find this information here)
Why am I thankful for my life? Because although my life is not perfect, I have had a very good life. I have had traveled far and wide, I have been married to the same man for 32 years, have seven children, and seven grandchildren. My life although not perfect, is amazing.
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