pulsipher page

100 lb. quest

2012-02-13T10:24:00.000-08:00

My weigh in today was in a word: disappointing. I lost 0.4 lbs. Not even a pound. I've been thinking why only a 1/2 lb. being that I haven't done anything different from my normal weeks. I think it's because my body has lost 4 lbs. for weeks now and it's holding onto the weight. (sort of like that dreaded week 2 in "The Biggest Loser") I need to change things up.
I'm going to continue eating 6 times a day, every 2 to 3 hours but I'm going to pump up my exercise. Here's to a week of nasty sweat! I hope it will make a difference at my next weigh in.

Happy Sunday

2012-02-12T17:02:00.001-08:00

Five Question Friday 2/10

2012-02-10T07:07:00.000-08:00

1. How often do you shave your legs in the winter?

As often as I do in summer. The weather is so nice year round that I never wear nylons/tights. The trade off is I have to shave.

2. Valentine's Day cards for your spouse: funny or romantic?

funny

3. What are you most looking forward to about spring?

swimming

4. What's your favorite way to pamper yourself?

getting pedicures, massage from my favorite massage therapist (my sister)

5. Does your tax return go into savings or do you spend it instantly?

goes straight into savings

100 lb. quest

2012-02-06T11:39:00.000-08:00

I'm all into motivation these days and loved this quote!
I lost another 4 lbs which really is a little surprising because I had some pie and some pasta. Two things which I shouldn't have. I didn't have an all out portion. I just had a taste. Who knew you don't have to eat it all. Oh, skinny people that's who. I would hate to be deprived of all the great tasting foods out there for the rest of my life. By the way the pie and pasta were delicious!

Also, if you are interested, my daughter did a wedding review post and the last picture is one of me (68 lbs heavier) and my husband (40 lbs heavier).

Cell Phone Saturday

2012-02-04T21:46:00.000-08:00

I'm joining some blog friends in sharing cellphone pictures. You know the pictures that never get seen. Some of them are a couple months old.

Tyler getting his birthday crown.

Somebody was the HS mascot.

Can you tell who?

Tyler making a gingerbread house. Look at that concentration.

There's a big rock outside of IHOP and every time we go there he wants his picture taken.

Look at that tail. Yup that's definitely Heather.

Simple Woman's Day Book- January 2012

2012-01-31T21:22:00.000-08:00

I used to do these and decided to start them up again this year. Suppose to be done on the last day of every month. Join me!

THE SIMPLE WOMAN'S DAY BOOK

Outside my window...
Blue skies. It's 60 degrees outside. We cut down our dead tree and in it's place is a stump. Reminds me of "The Giving Tree".

I am thinking...

of a game and craft I'm in charge of for my son's Kindergarten classes Valentine party. I'm hoping pinterest will help me with ideas because right now I've got nothing.

I am thankful...

for a positive attitude despite life's trials

I am praying...
for my children

I am reading...
the Book of Mormon along with the Book of Mormon Companion. Learning alot!

I am creating...

space and order in my master bedroom closet. I've put this off for so long. It was my black hole- but no longer!

From the kitchen...

thinking about springing a new recipe (crockpot chicken) on the elders this Friday for dinner. I love the spirit they bring into our home when they come for dinner appointments.

Around the house...

Valentine decorations!

One of my favorite things..

hearing my kids laughter as they're enjoying each other

A few plans for the next few weeks...

making sure my sweetheart knows he's loved and appreciated, longer walks, get a pedicure (I'm thinking black nails with white polka dots).

100 lb. quest

2012-01-30T18:26:00.000-08:00

Mondays are my weigh in days. I lost 4 lbs this past week! I've decided to record my weigh ins. It keeps me accountable and actively thinking about my goals. This makes 64 lbs lost so far. I'm trying to get to 100. Some people (really just one person) thinks I'll stop before I reach my goal of 100 lbs. This really just makes me more motivated to prove her wrong.

Here's a healthy recipe I found. I'm into healthy these day. It's on my recipe blog. Just know that not all the recipes are healthy. They are mostly family favorites or ones I really like. I've tried to give credit if they're not originally mine. Enjoy!

Happy Sunday

2012-01-29T12:06:00.000-08:00

A great short video "Our True Identity"

Five Question Friday 1/27

2012-01-27T07:01:00.000-08:00

1. Do you swim in the winter?
No swimming in the winter for me. I don't really like heated pools. They're very expensive to heat up and feel like bath water. Can't wait to swim again this summer/spring. I love water aerobics. Maybe by spring break??

2. Do you love or hate winter?

I love Arizona winters!

3. Do you put makeup/actual clothes on when you know you're going to be home all day with just family?

I don't put on makeup and usually will wear sweats or yoga pants around the house if I know I'm not going out. They're kinda my cleaning clothes.

4. How old were you when you had your first alcoholic beverage?

never had an alcoholic beverage

5. How many ill calls in a 12 month period do you think are acceptable?

I don't really understand this question. Is it how many times can/should you call in sick? I think you call in sick when you're sick however many there are.

long overdue

2012-01-25T15:49:00.000-08:00

Lauren and Travis made the cover of a bridal magazine. They are/were all over Provo.

acting out the nativity with cousins on Christmas Eve

Tyler receiving student of the month in his Kindergarten class

Tyler's 6th birthday party at Chuck e cheese.

lost his first 2 baby teeth

Halloween with his cousin Cody

Heather's winter formal dance

getting answered to the dance
She received a flour container that said the answer was inside. Dumping out the flour into bowls. No answer! Then a knock at the door with a real flower and a yes!

the group

Happy Sunday

2012-01-22T11:33:00.000-08:00

Marjorie Pay Hinckley - “I don't want to drive up to the pearly gates in a shiny sports car, wearing beautifully, tailored clothes, my hair expertly coiffed, and with long, perfectly manicured fingernails. I want to drive up in a station wagon that has mud on the wheels from taking kids to scout camp. I want to be there with a smudge of peanut butter on my shirt from making sandwiches for a sick neighbors children. I want to be there with a little dirt under my fingernails from helping to weed someone's garden. I want to be there with children's sticky kisses on my cheeks and the tears of a friend on my shoulder. I want the Lord to know I was really here and that I really lived.”

Happy Sunday

2012-01-15T08:34:00.000-08:00

2012-01-13T13:25:00.000-08:00

My blog friend Lara is going through a difficult time. Her teenage son Spencer recently got diagnosed with AML, Acute Myeloid Leukemia. I'm just so broken up about it and ask you to visit her and send your prayers to her and her family.
Lara is one of those rare people who touch peoples lives and change them for the better. I remember when I first found her blog. She did a post about her birthday. Instead of receiving gifts she wanted to give gifts to others. She documented 25 plus random acts of kindness her and her kids did. She also has a wonderful recipe blog and FHE lesson blog.

Five Question Friday 1/13/12

2012-01-13T08:41:00.000-08:00

What's the last thing you bought for yourself?

I got a gift card for my birthday last month and bought a new pair of jeans and a new skirt. I've been losing weight and wasn't sure what size I am just knew that my clothes have been hanging off me. I found out that I'm down 4 dress sizes. Wow, what a great surprise! That was a good day!

What is your favorite meal on a cold winter day?

a bowl of hot soup, tomato basil or potato!

Have you started looking at swimsuits this year, and do you buy a new one every year?

Swimsuits, yuck! I bought a suit on clearance last summer in a size a thought I might be for next summer. It's the same size as my new clothes in the above question. When I realized that I tried it on to see if it fit. It does fit. The neckline plunges too deep and I don't like how it looks.(a little too girls gone wild) Note to self: don't buy anything if you don't first try it on. I will have to buy a new swimsuit this summer but I'll wait to see what size I end up being since I'm still dieting. This one will hopefully be too big.

What are you most passionate about?

my family. I LOVE being a wife and mother.

What is your favorite thing to "pin" on pinterest?

Pinterest is so fun! I like pinning quotes, things I'd like to do for the house, yummy foods, crafts...

Five Question Friday 1/6

2012-01-06T07:25:00.000-08:00

1. What is the weather like where you are and do you like it?

Right now its 50 degrees in the mornings and evenings and mid 70's moving up to the 80's during the day. We don't own winter coats. It would be paradise if only there was a beach!

2. When you're sick what do you seek comfort from?

My bed, under the covers. Also, honey juice (apple cider vinegar, honey and water) it cures sore throats. My mom used to make it for us kids growing up.

3. What do you need to do before the end of the month?

No specific thing. I need to get back into my routine. Christmas break really messed me up. I gained 3 lbs. After losing 50 lbs I'm pretty frustrated. Just goes to show, I function better with an organized routine.

4. Have you ever served on a jury?

No. I've always been released.

5. If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?

I don't like this question. I wouldn't want to be anything but me but if a have to answer maybe a horse because they're so beautifully graceful and strong.

Five Question Friday 12/30

2011-12-30T07:57:00.000-08:00

1. What's the oldest piece of clothing in your closet?

a navy blue pencil shirt that I wore many years ago when I introduced my then boyfriend (now husband) to the family. I've made it a personal goal to wear it again on our anniversary this summer which means I'm in the middle of dieting/exercising. I'm 1/2 way to my goal.

2. How many random blog readers have you met?

I think two. Both are fabulous women! Cherie at my daughters reception and Marilyn at her grand daughters grave ceremony. I have meet so many wonderful women through blogging and would love to meet each of you in person! Wouldn't that be a great trip traveling around the country visiting blog friends! Sorry I've been MIA lately.

3. Do you let your kids stay up till midnight on New Years Eve? (Or, if you don't have kiddos yet, did you get to stay up until midnight as a child?)

Yes, we stay up on New Years Eve. We have a tradition of jumping in our pool at midnight. I should say the kids have that tradition.

4. What are the gas prices where you live?

The lowest I've seen is $3.05/gallon. Isn't that terrible? I remember when we moved here 13 years ago the price of gas was .89 cents/gallon.

5. What is one resolution that you know you should do but are too afraid to try?

I don't really do resolutions. What I'd like to work on is to complete my YW personal progress. It will be a lot of work! I've helped my 3 daughters get theirs and I've always wanted to get my own.

Happy Sunday

2011-11-20T09:44:00.000-08:00

Happy Sunday

2011-11-13T15:16:00.000-08:00

Click on the link to see an inspiring video about service and humility.
https://lds.org/pages/international-video-contest-winners?lang=eng#our-hands-his-hands%E2%80%94our-hearts-his-heart

Five Question Friday 11/11

2011-11-11T21:12:00.000-08:00

It's been an emotional few weeks for me. I haven't felt like blogging but I'm trying to return to normal. This I know for sure. The Lord is in charge, he knows me and my family and loves us, and that is so comforting.

On to FQF

1. What's the last thing you spent too much money on?

Seagull Book store. I came out with 4 bags.

2. What celeb chef would you want to make you dinner?

Ina Garten the Barefoot Contessa

3. Where do you hide things when visitors pop over or do you let them see the real deal?

I try to pick up real quick and if I can't get to it all I've been known to pull out the vacuum cleaner so it looks like you caught me in the middle of cleaning.

4. Who is your oldest living family member?

my mom who is 77 years old

5. What is your favorite DQ treat and/or Sonic drink combo (ie: cherry vanilla Dr. Pepper)?

at DQ- a Reese peanut butter blizzard

at Sonic- a vanilla diet coke

Fall Break 2011

2011-10-26T17:08:00.000-07:00

We had a great time in California. We began our adventure at Disneyland and spent 2 days there. I'd never been there in October when it was decorated for Halloween.

Before leaving Anaheim we had our favorite pizza from Pizza Rosa and ate it at Duck Park. (that's what we call it) When Randy was young he lived in Anaheim, his family would have pizza at this park every Friday night after baseball games.

This is the beach house we stayed at in Oceanside. The one with the umbrellas. Nicole flew in for beach time. Now she's hooked!

Love it!

Everyday was beautiful except the last day when these pictures were taken.

Restaurant on the Pier

Visiting the San Diego Temple. Look at that blue sky.

Quick stop at Scripps Aquarium

Mormon Battalion

We had a great time and just might do it again next year!

16

2011-10-24T12:04:00.000-07:00

Our little Heather turned 16 years old last week.

We have a family tradition that the kid's first date is not until they're 16 years old is with their mom (for the boys)or dad (with the girls). Randy took her to a matinee theater show at Broadway Palms.

Then later that same day she went on another date quadding with her friend Kalvin.

Here we go again...

excited!

2011-10-04T11:54:00.000-07:00

Soon this will be our home for a week. I can't wait!

with a little stop off here.

Happy Sunday

2011-10-02T12:03:00.000-07:00

I have been anticipating General Conference for weeks now and am never disappointed. I am so enjoying the inspired talks and comforting music. Listening to our church leaders inspire me to be a better wife, a better mother, a better neighbor, a better friend, a better member of the church and a better daughter of God. I've watched it on TV yesterday and today (BYU channel, 114 on my cable) but you can also watch it here or here. I know you can feel peace, comfort and joy like I have!

Five Question Friday 9/30

2011-09-30T09:32:00.000-07:00

1. Do you apologize to your kids if you're wrong?
Am I ever wrong? (hangs head in shame) Unfortunately sometimes I am and I do apologize at those times.

2. Do you have a class ring, letterman's jacket, or similar obscenely priced high school "must have"?
Other then pictures, No. I couldn't wait to get out of high school and move on to college.

3. If you could be one age for the rest of your life, what age would you choose?
at 31 I thought I just might have figured some things out

4. What is your favorite (unused) baby name?

Blake for a boy and Sophie for a girl

5. If you could make your child like something what would it be?
I guess the same foods I like. It sure would make dinner time easier.

Visit My Little Life to link up

Cars

2011-09-29T08:42:00.000-07:00

I love serving in Young Women's! We recently had a combined activity with the Young Men. The girls (14-15) were in charge. They spent one mutual night making/decorating a car for two. On the next mutual they invited the YM to a drive-in movie. We gave each car a number and the boys drew a numbered paper that matched up with the cars. When the boys were at the right car the girls showed up with treats to share. It was a very fun night! (My daughter is in the purple shirt.)

silly girls!

2011-09-28T08:29:00.000-07:00

Showing love to the birthday girl?

thugs!

much better!

Fun at the Lake

2011-09-27T09:02:00.000-07:00

We had lots of fun at Canyon Lake when Travis and Lauren were here. Our family and my sister's family took the kids out of school for a great day at the lake. I love boating. We had boats growing up. Those were my favorite family times! It was a sad day when my dad sold our boat. He sold it to pay for my college tuition.

Happy Sunday

2011-09-25T15:33:00.000-07:00

Five Question Friday 9/23

2011-09-23T08:24:00.000-07:00

1. Dream job...realistic and completely unrealistic.

I gave up my dream job (elementary school teacher) for a better dream job (Stay at home mom). I really enjoyed teaching preschool in my home when my kids were little. Unrealistic, a motivational speaker or travel around the world and write food reviews or own a children's bookstore.

2. Do you fart in front of your significant other?
I plead the 5th

3. What's the furthest you've ever traveled from home? How far and where was it?

California to New Jersey or Utah to Mazatlan, Mexico

4. How do you celebrate birthday for your kids? Family only or friends? ... Alternate for those without kiddos: How did you celebrate birthdays as a kid?
We go out to dinner at a restaurant of their choice and everybody takes turns telling a memory of the birthday child or what we love about them. They can have a friend party if they want to but the older they got they really didn't want parties anymore. My birthday is very close to Christmas so when I was young I only remember a couple of parties.

5. Fave thing about fall?

cooler weather, the changing leaves and football season

Take me out to the ballgame

2011-09-22T16:20:00.000-07:00

We had a great time at the D-backs game! Even though they lost (3-5) it was a fun night and it was Ty's first baseball game! Can you tell what he liked best about the game? The last picture tells it all.

Happy Sunday

2011-09-18T10:03:00.000-07:00

Five Question Friday 9/16

2011-09-16T08:21:00.000-07:00

1. If you had a weekly newspaper column, what would you name it?

The Joys of Motherhood or Women can change the world or How to have a great day.

2. Who is your mentor/inspiration?

people who help other people

3. What is your wake up beverage of choice?

ice cold glass of filtered water

4. Would you wear your mom's clothes?

what? no but I would raid her jewelry.

5. When you were a kid, did you put posters on your wall? If so, what were they of?

I think I did have a David Cassidy and Bobby Sherman faze but I can't remember if posters were involved.

I need to record this.....

2011-09-15T09:19:00.000-07:00

When my four oldest children had THE talk. We first took them out to dinner, just them and mom and dad. It was their first fancy dinner. Before my memory completely goes I want to record where each child went. Nicole- Outback Steakhouse, Lauren- Mi Amigo's, Andrew- Macaroni Grill, and Heather- Cheesecake Factory.

When they received their Patriarchal blessings we took them out to eat afterwards. Nicole- Quiznos, Lauren- Taco Bell, Andrew- China Buffet and Heather- Chili's.

Happy Sunday

2011-09-11T12:53:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to find something to share that would express my feelings of the events of September 11, 2001. Some of you know that I worked in NYC at Macy's for a time. I'd take the bus in and completely enjoy the sights and sounds of the city. Those were long days but good days. Before we left the east coast we wanted to take our children into the city and show them around. They were young but we knew we would regret not taking them. We didn't know when we would be back on the east coast again. We rode a ferry in and docked by Battery Park. We climbed up one of the twin towers because there you could see an awesome view of the whole city. They loved that
Then about 3 years later on September 11, 2001 I was dropping off Heather at school for Kindergarten. One of the other mothers said have you seen the news? I hadn't. She said something awful is happening in NY at the twin towers. A plane crashed into it. I went home and turned on the news. The reporters were speculating as to why this was happening. And then I saw another plane fly into the other tower. I was in shock. What was happening? Then the beautiful towers fell. I couldn't believe it. What was happening?
It was a sad, sad day. The world has never been the same.
I like this rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. It was taken at the 2002 SLC Winter Olympic Opening Ceremony. It starts off soft but ends strong. God bless America. Land that I love!

Five Question Friday 9/9

2011-09-09T07:15:00.000-07:00

1. What ringtone do you have on your cell phone?

I just got a new phone so right now it's the standard one that came with the phone. My old phone had "Have a nice day" by Bon Jovi. I'm looking for a good song for my new phone!

2. What is your favorite memory from this summer?

when my family came to visit.

3. Paper books or ebooks?

I'm old school. I like holding a real book and turning real pages.

4. If you could have one home upgrade what would it be and why?

a new kitchen because it's the room I'm in all the time and I'd love a new look. I think this one looks gorgeous.

5. When was your first serious boyfriend?

"serious" boyfriend mmmh probably in my early 20's

Come visit at My Little Life

fun with friends

2011-09-07T07:12:00.000-07:00

This post was written at the beginning of summer but somehow got lost. oops.
Fun with friends! Baking cookies to deliver and watching a movie in a fort! My girl is having a great summer with friends!

Happy Sunday

2011-09-04T10:43:00.000-07:00

This was first presented 16 years ago this month during an annual Relief Society meeting. I remember that moment. I was very pregnant with my 4th child and felt so grateful for my church and for living prophets that are still on the earth. The family proclamation is a great formula if you want a strong marriage and a happy family.

To see it written out in large print so that you can read it go here. To order one for your family like the one above go here.

new do

2011-09-03T10:38:00.000-07:00

I'm been waiting until my daughter posted this first on her blog. She came with long hair and left with short! I have thought for the longest time that Lauren would look cute in a short sassy haircut. I love it! If I didn't have a gigantic scar on the back of my neck I would go short too.

Five Question Friday 9/2

2011-09-02T09:54:00.000-07:00

1. Shoes in the house - yay or nay?
Usually we take off our shoes in the house. There's no set rule or anything like that. Some people who come over (mostly kids friends) take off their shoes and leave them at the front door, others leave their shoes on. I don't care either way.

2. What do you call them- flip flops, slippers, thongs, etc?
flip flops

3. What song are you almost embarrassed to admit you know all the lyrics to?

Pretty Little Liars theme song

4. What is the best quality to have in a friend?
loyalty, kindness, a listening ear but the most important to me is someone who will keep your news private. You know not gossiping to others. If you're a blabber your probably not a close friend because I won't share things with you.

5. Do you know what you want for Christmas?
a good quality camera

Family

2011-09-01T09:39:00.000-07:00

It has been an exciting August. Both daughters came home for visits! It was awesome!!

Here's Lauren and Tyler after picking him up from school.

We went to Canyon Lake for a day boating. We went wake boarding, wake surfing and swimming.

Lauren and Travis made breakfast for our anniversary! Bacon, eggs and pancakes. Here's a picture of some of the fancy pancakes.

The Lovebirds
This was taken just before they left. Travis got some Arizona sun.

How Travis got Tyler to do this I'll never know. Ty loved having Travis around. It was like having a big brother to play with again.

BTW ~~Andrew~~ Elder Pulsipher is doing great on his mission. He just got made a trainer. Some interesting news- he's lost 20 lbs in his first 6 months out. He eats a lot of rice. Recently his foot got run over by a truck but its fine and all healed. Miraculously it wasn't hurt badly.

Happy Sunday

2011-08-28T15:50:00.000-07:00

Five Question Friday 8/26

2011-08-26T07:23:00.000-07:00

1. Did you make any fun purchases this week?

I got 2 extra large boxes so my daughter could make a "car" out of cardboard for a combined YM/YW activity. A Tonto pass so we could park at Canyon Lake for a boating trip.

2. If you could go to any musical concert, what would it be?

maybe Taylor Swift or good ol' Bon Jovi

3. What is your least fav/ most fav house chore?

least favorite is cleaning toilets, favorite is dishes because I really like a cleaned off counter top.

4. Would you prefer new appliances or clothes?

Just bought a bunch of clothes so I'm good there but what I really want is a new refrigerator!

5. Miracle Whip or Mayo?

I hate the taste of Miracle Whip. My husband likes it.

It's been a problem. (for him)

Come to My Little Life

a birthday

2011-08-23T23:43:00.000-07:00

Today is my daughter Nicole's 22nd birthday!

Here she is a few days old.

Here she is at 2 years old.

and here she is a few weeks ago.

She wants to be a nurse. She wants to help people.

I've often wondered what my little girl would be like when she grew up. She has surpassed all my dreams for her. I remember holding her in our hospital room just her and I and our first conversation together. I told her that I'd never been a mother before and I wasn't quite sure what I was doing. I told her I would always love her and couldn't wait to share experiences with her. I asked her what she wanted to be when she grew up. She just looked up at me and seemed to already know me. It made me feel so loved and gave me the confidence I needed as a new mother. I have loved our journey together so far.

Happy Birthday to my sweet Colee!

(When Nicole was almost 2 years old I had twins. She was and is the best big sister. The kids couldn't say her name very well but they could say the end of her name. Over the years Colee has just stuck.)

under construction

2011-08-23T14:12:00.000-07:00

My daughter Lauren is here visiting and is giving my blog a face lift! Can't wait to see it when its done! Travis her husband is here too. He's fixing a bathroom leak, trimming my palm tree and scoring huge points!

Friend Makin' Monday: The Last Thing

2011-08-22T09:17:00.000-07:00

I haven't done this in a while. Thought I'd give it a go.....

FMM: The Last Thing
1) What is the title of the last book you read? Of Pigs, Pearls & Prodigals by John Bytheway
2) What is the last movie you saw in a theater? The Help (so good )
3) Briefly describe the last person you saw today. another mother from my son's Kindergarten class. Kari has long brown hair and we car pool together for HS
4) Which store did you most recently shop in? just came back from Frys grocery store. I ran out of bread and needed to get some for Ty's lunch. I have an hour in between school start times. Usually that's when I exercise but today instead I have lots of healthy foods. That's good too.
5) Who’s the last person you spoke to over the phone? my daughter Nicole last night.
6) Where’s the last place you vacationed? Hubby and I just came back from Portland Oregon (Cherie, you were right! )
7) When was the last time you kissed someone of the opposite sex? this morning when I sent my little guy off to school.
8) What’s the last thing that made you laugh? Watching AFV last night (actually laughing at my husband laughing at AFV) He has the best laugh!
9) What’s the latest app that you downloaded on your phone? n/a I have an old school cell phone and in serious need of an upgrade. I'm trying to decide if I want to switch service plans or stick with T-mobile.
10) What’s the last kind thing you did for someone? I make muffins this morning and 2 school lunches.

Have a great week everyone!
Come to Kenlie's blog to see more

Happy Sunday

2011-08-21T15:38:00.000-07:00

Randy and I celebrated our anniversary this weekend. (23 years) We went on a quick trip to my nephew's wedding who also chose the 19th of August to get married! Any ideas on where we went? Here's a clue.

Five Question Friday 8/18

2011-08-19T08:40:00.000-07:00

1. Do you close the bathroom door when you are home alone?
not always

2. You have to walk around with a word on your forehead. That word describes you. One word. What is it?
happy

3. What store do you refuse to shop at and why?
Hooters

4. If you participated in arranged marriages for your child(ren), who would you choose for your child(ren)?

I would never assume I know who would be better for them.

5. If you could pick how and when you would die, would you?
Yes, when I'm a great grandmother peacefully in my sleep

Go to My Little Life

Cousins

2011-08-17T07:11:00.000-07:00

We had the Burdicks (cousins) over for dinner and games before Nicole had to leave. What a crazy looking bunch! Super hero's make everything just a little better!
Left: Cody, Tyler, Heather, Jake, Noah
Back row: Lauren, Nicole, Samantha

Happy Sunday

2011-08-14T18:48:00.000-07:00

Sisters

2011-08-13T11:30:00.000-07:00

The three amigos back together again. After picking Lauren up at the airport we went to dinner at CPK and then swimming in the backyard pool. Travis comes next week!

Back to School

2011-08-12T07:25:00.000-07:00

We are so happy that Nicole had a break and could come home! I am having such fun with her. Her birthday is coming up in a few weeks so we've been doing lots of birthday shopping and back to school shopping. She is fabulous and I feel so lucky to be her mother and friend!

We started school this week. Heathers first day as a sophomore! She starts at 6:30 and ends her day at 5:00. She has decided to play Badminton after school that's why her day is so long.

I packed her a lunch and put in a little love note. So fun! Luckily she wasn't embarrassed.

Tyler is so excited for Kindergarten! He had a batman backpack (it even has a black cape that velcro's on). I'll have to get a better picture of it. He is excited to have lunch at school and loves his monster lunch bag. The green necklace is from his teacher at "Back to School Night" so he'd be able to find her. There are 4 Kindergarten classes this year.

Last year in preschool he made this bracelet. It has a 5 and a T on it for his age and name. He told me I should wear it while he's at school in case I get lonely without him. So sweet!

In line waiting to go in. The teacher is in red. Notice how she is talking to the boy and lovingly touching his face. She is very kind and sweet. He's in good hands.

Nicole picked Tyler up on the first day and took a picture with cousin Cody. They're not in the same Kindergarten class which is sad for Ty but hopefully it will be a good thing.

Happy Sunday

2011-08-07T10:49:00.000-07:00

In honor of our anniversary this month and my daughters one year anniversary yesterday. Enjoy this video. The message is simple but so important to follow to strengthen your marriage.

Five Question Friday 8/5

2011-08-04T08:05:00.000-07:00

1. Do you have siblings and are you close with them?
Yes! I have an older brother who lives in Oregon. We were close in HS and hung out with the same crowd of friends. A younger sister who lives in NJ. We are different but the same and have a special bond. A sister who lives about 5 blocks away. I say that I raised her until I left for college. There's a 9 year age difference. We see each other all the time. Our son's are best buds.

2. Would you rather be slightly UNDER weight or slightly OVER weight?
Under weight. I have never, ever been under weight.

3. What's your favorite State Fair food to splurge on?
funnel cakes or Indian fry bread

4. What are your thoughts on your kid(s) going to school in a few weeks?
For us it's in 5 days. They are excited and I'm trying to be. I really like having them with me all day, every day. My little guy is entering Kindergarten so life will never be the same. Sad.

5. Pool or Ocean?
Both. A pool for swimming and playing. The ocean for the sandy beaches, the view, riding the waves, the smell of the ocean, the ocean breeze. Can you tell I'm in NEED of a beach trip.

My Little Life come on over.

Happy Sunday

2011-07-31T08:20:00.000-07:00

In case you're interested I added pictures to this post!

Missionaries serving in Japan helping with earthquake/ tsunami clean up.

Five Question Friday 7/29

2011-07-29T10:15:00.000-07:00

1. Vow renewal ceremonies-yay or nay?
I don't really get them. I say spend the money on regular get aways and regular date nights. One of the best things you can do for your relationship is to spend time together without kids. When me and hubs go away it feels like we're newlyweds again.

2. What sound/s annoy you the most?
when I wake up to someone else's alarm clock going off or the sound of Spongebob laughing over and over and over again.

3. If you had to pick, would you have only all boys, or only all girls for kids?
I can't pick because my 4 girls and 2 boys are perfect for me! To imagine anything different would be impossible.

4. Do you believe in alternative medicine?
I don't know enough about it. A few things make sense but I've never really tried anything. If I had a serious illness or awful pain I think I'd try anything.

5. Would you take a family members children and raise them if they needed it?
Absolutely yes!

My Little Life to join up

Angela

2011-07-27T21:45:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my daughter Angela today. She would have been 10 years old. What a sweet reunion it will be to be together as a complete family one day.
Families Can be Together Forever. That is our family goal to have No Empty Chairs in our Eternal Heavenly Home.

On this day one year ago the twins went through the temple for the first time. Here's that post.

Oma, our pioneer

2011-07-24T22:50:00.000-07:00

Being that it's "Pioneer Day" today I thought I'd share our family pioneer story. It all starts with my grandmother, Maria Iwanitschi. We call her Oma because that's the word for grandmother in German. Here's the shortened version.

The photo on the left is my grandparents in front of their NJ house and the one on the right is Oma's passport picture.

Oma was living in Austria during WW II. My grandparents, Uncle and my mom moved there from their village in Ukraine that became occupied by Russian soldiers. ( similar to the scene in Fiddler on the Roof) but for real. They had relatives living in Vienna, Austria already so were allowed to come. They were hoping it would be safer in Austria than in occupied Russia. Not so. They lived through bomb attacks, sometimes daily, where they would have to hide in bomb shelters in the basement of their building. Scary because you never knew what kind of damage you would find afterwards. It's amazing to me that this was my families reality.

After the war was over there was a lot of clean up and hardly any food to be found. While this was going on my Oma was in the hospital. She had Tuberculous. While in the hospital she had part of her lung removed and ribs removed. As she was recuperating her brother brought her a bible to give her comfort. She developed an infection and was told by the doctors that she wouldn't make it. The bible had to be concealed from the nurses because it was forbidden. She was in the hospital for over a year. During that time she prayed and promised God that if she could be healed and be able to raise her children she would find His true church. She wanted to live the gospel the way it was written in the bible and look for a church to serve him for the rest of her life.
After a few infections and complications she was healed. She went home to her family. Life was hard, very hard. For months she would set out searching for the right church to attend. Each Sunday she would try a new church hoping it would be the one but none felt right.

One a particular Sunday Oma was walking home from getting food. She had to wait in a ration line for hours hoping they didn't run out of food. On her walk home she dropped the bag of food and as she stopped to pick it up on a street she normally didn't go on she heard singing. She looked to see where the singing was coming from. It was in a building that had a sign hung on it that said The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Visitors Welcome. She was used to seeing churches in beautiful elaborate building but never in an old ordinary building. She felt impressed to go inside. It happened to be mothers day. While at the meeting she felt good, peaceful, happy. She left and told them she'd be back next Sunday. When she arrived home she told her family that she had found the church. The next Sunday she took my mom. After taking the discussions she knew she wanted to be baptized.

A time was set. She was to be baptized in the Danube River. My grandfather was against the baptism after he found out that she would have to be immersed under water. He was worried she would get sick again after just coming home. She said, "I trust in God that all will be well" A small group met at the banks of the river on the appointed day and time. Some men in the group noticed 2 soldiers with guns patrolling the area. They said we would have to reschedule the baptism. My Oma would not have that. She began to walk into the water with her coat on and the priesthood holder who was to baptize her followed after her. She was baptized a member of the church that day, September 6, 1945. A few months later my mom was baptized and later my grandfather and uncle were also baptized.

Eventually they were able to leave the country on a ship to America. They landed on Ellis Island in NYC. Her desire was to continue on to SLC, Utah where the church headquarters were. She wanted to live among the saints in Zion. Right at that time, the prophet of the church said to build up Zion where you are, which for her was NJ. She followed the prophets counsel and stayed put, serving faithfully and sharing her testimony all her life.

Oma lived to see my older brother leave on his mission to the Utah SLC north mission and for me to go west for college. She has been an inspiration to me all my life. I feel so blessed to be her grand daughter. She is our pioneer!

Happy Sunday

2011-07-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

So True!

Five Question Friday 7/22

2011-07-22T08:30:00.000-07:00

1. If your husband had the BIG V and you got pregnant what would your first reaction be? For the dudes, what would your first reaction be if your wife told you she was pregnant after the Big V?
I would be thrilled. It's always a blessing to have a baby. Since my little guy was a complete surprise nothing surprises me. Though I'd be more open to adopting an older child maybe a toddler/preschooler

2. Best memory about this summer so far.
my daughter telling me about her new boyfriend

3. How often do you change your sheets? Your kids sheets?
I do like clean sheets but the reality is probably every other week.

4. Having just gone through TSA, would you rather have a full-body scan or a pat-down?
they both sound awful. I haven't experienced either so I don't really know which would be worse.

5. Since it is fair time...what's your favorite fair (county or state) memory?
the Middlesex County fair in NJ. We used to go with my parents growing up. I liked the acrobatic acts, petting zoo and funnel cakes.

Visit My little Life to link up

different kind of centerpiece

2011-07-20T19:30:00.000-07:00

This is our kitchen table. We bought a new table a few months ago to replace the farmhouse one we've had for 12 plus years. I used to decorate in a more country style back then.

I put a question in a frame. We ask each other this question at each dinner meal.

da question

We recovered the seats with this fabric and put a piece of plastic on top. 5 year old in the house ya know! They were a plain light brown color before but I thought they needed a pop of color.

Happy Sunday

2011-07-17T10:45:00.000-07:00

Great story of a father his son and some basketball!

Five Question Friday 7/15

2011-07-15T08:42:00.000-07:00

1. If you knew your best friend's spouse was cheating on her or him, would you tell her (him)?
Heck yes!

2. soda in a can or a bottle?
I don't buy soda for the house and try to only have water in restaurants so the only soda I have is from the fountain at places like QT (Quick Trip convenience store/gas station)

3. What do you wash first, hair or body?
hair

4. What advice would you give to any new mama?
you will get sleep eventually, hold your babies as much as possible, they will grow out of their stages and then that's it forever so enjoy every moment, these 5 years before elementary school are precious, stay in the moment.

5. What is your best hangover remedy?
never had a hangover

Twin's birthday

2011-07-10T00:05:00.000-07:00

The first birthday not celebrated together by the twins. He's on the other side of the world on a mission (already had his birthday yesterday) and she is 2 states away with her husband. They really did love sharing their birthdays together over the years.

Happy 20th Andrew and Lauren!

These are the last pictures of them together at Lauren's wedding.

He caught his sister's garter but then quickly gave it away to someone else, anyone else!

dancing together!

The first meeting after being a married women.
Picking him up at the SLC airport to soon drop him off at the MTC (Mission Training Center)

Travis, Lauren, Andrew and Nicole
His sisters and new brother in law having one last lunch together.

Curb side drop off at the MTC

Five Question Friday 7/8

2011-07-08T08:15:00.000-07:00

1. Do you think cursive writing is overrated? (Schools in Indiana have now voted to take teaching cursive writing out of their curriculum.)
How are kids going to learn how to sign their name, write out a note, etc... Since the keyboard, cursive writing is not as valid but don't throw it out and never expose kids to it.

2. Do you still use a pocket calendar or notepad or do you keep your info on your smart phone?
I'm old school and write out lists and notes. I love crossing things off my to do list. Sometimes even in cursive!

3. What 3 things would you save if your house was burning down? (family & pets are already safe)
files, pictures, computer

4. Country Mouse or City Mouse, err Person?
I'm a city girl. I like that I live near stores and restaurants. I also like that I get to drive by farm land every day when I leave my housing development. So both!

5. If you could pick ANY reality show to go on, which would you pick?
Maybe the Real Housewives show with my friends to show that all women aren't petty and mean to each other or House Hunters

Go to My Little Life

Happy 4th of July

2011-07-04T09:32:00.000-07:00

Some of you know that both my parents immigrated to the United States. My dad when he was a teen from Germany and my mom from Austria by way of Ukraine when she was a teen. They met and married in New Jersey. They are so grateful to be American citizens and have taught us, their children to Love and Appreciate our wonderful country. Here's another post if you want a little more family history.
I LOVE both these songs! Happy 4th of July!

Happy Sunday

2011-07-03T15:45:00.000-07:00

Five Question Friday 7/1

2011-06-30T22:54:00.000-07:00

1. If you had the opportunity to bungee jump, would you?
No. I'd be to afraid of dying or getting hurt. I bet the headache would be awful.

2. Would you rather go to the movie theater or to the drive-in?
movie theater, it's closer.

3. Do you have your groceries delivered?
No. Do people really do that?

4. Eyebrows: Do you wax, thread, pluck, or stay au naturel?
pluck in between waxes

5. Would the people you went to high school with be surprised by your life today?
They knew I was serious about going to college. They probably thought I'd have a career since college was so important to me. I did graduate and did work for a time but when I became a mother (when my oldest was 18 months and I was on bedrest while being pregnant with twins) I gave up my career to be a stay at home mom. Besides choosing my husband it was the best decision of my life!

More at My Crooked Life

2011-06-27T11:40:00.000-07:00

Elder Pulsipher is in the Church News.
Here's the link.

Part of his face is covered by another missionary but I'd know those eyes anywhere.
He's on the far left in the June 18 edition.

Happy Sunday

2011-06-25T23:58:00.000-07:00

My kids love this song! They would sing it together around the house, in the car. It was sung at Andrew's missionary farewell.

So in honor of him and my daughter who is an EFY (especially for youth) counselor this summer here's a great song, The EFY medley. If all teenagers today would know of their worth and their great potential for good the world would be a better place.

Five Question Friday 6/24

2011-06-24T08:45:00.000-07:00

1. What is your current favorite tv show?
the Voice and So you Think you can Dance

2. What's the worst haircut you ever got?
in HS I cut my hair short, pixie short. It was awful

3. What was something that you did as a child that you thought you were so cool for doing?
i loved pushing my baby sister in a stroller around the block. i was 9 years old and thought i was so grown up.

4. Do you have any GREAT frugal family fun tips?
red box movies, board games, road trips

5. Would you drive across country if you had the money to fly?
I've driven across country, ocean to ocean, a few times already (college, newly married) so i know there's a lot of great places to see. Every body should do it once but now I'd fly to save time.

See more at My little Life

Summertime

2011-06-21T11:47:00.000-07:00

This is where we spent FHE last night.

Here is where I seem to be spending a lot of my days. Driving between 2 pools for swim lessons and life guard training.

Gotta love summertime!

Happy Sunday

2011-06-18T21:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day
to all you great dad's

Five Question Friday 6/17

2011-06-17T11:25:00.000-07:00

1. What is your favorite summer time activity?

Spending all day with my children. Really it's true. I actually like being with them. That's what makes vacations so great because we're all together. It doesn't matter where we are or what we're doing as long as we're doing it together than I'm in heaven.

2. Do you have one laundry soap you stick to, or do you buy whatever's on sale?

I always use Tide with Bleach. I've found that it cleans the best so when it's on sale I stock up. Woolite for hand washing.

3. What is your favorite dinner to make in the summer?

BBQ anything (it tastes wonderful and Husband grills it)

4. Do you have any talents?

I'm good at many things but great at nothing! I do think I have a gift for teaching. Not so much adults but children. It comes so natural to me that it's probably a gift I was born with. I used to think it was nothing special until I realized it wasn't natural to everyone.

5. If you could instantly be an expert in something, what would it be? Why?

I'd say sewing, photography, politics. All things that I'm interested in but don't know much about.

Come here to link up

Happy Sunday

2011-06-12T15:00:00.000-07:00

My daughters been busy

2011-06-11T10:19:00.000-07:00

This was last weekend. (90 foot cliff)

and this is today! (half marathon)

Oh to be young and adventurous!
She's going through her bucket list!

Five Question Friday 6/10

2011-06-09T23:18:00.000-07:00

1. How close to your childhood dreams is your life now?
I'd say pretty close! I wanted to be a mother and thought it would be cool to have twins. Set of twins, 6 kids total. check. I used to play school all the time always being the teacher. I taught elementary school for 5 years. check.

2. What is one must have item for the summer?
pedicures ( but really that is all year round since I wear sandals all year) mmmmh, maybe ice cream. We always seem to NEED some in the freezer and want to go get some when we're out and about. It's Heathers favorite treat. And its dang hot here in the summer!

3. Do you have your kids stay up on school stuff during summer vacation? (Or, if you don't have kiddos, did your parents make you keep up on school stuff during summer?)
No way! Summer is for playing!

4. Do you can or freeze fresh produce?
No. I wish I did. I need someone to help teach me because I would love to can fresh produce.

5. Do you get ready for the day first thing in the morning?
Not first thing, unlike my husband who rolls out of bed and into the shower.

I forgot to include the link. Come on over and join in yourself or just to see other peoples answers. Ready made questions are perfect when you're in a writing fog. That's why I started and now its just fun!

Someone's been having fun

2011-06-08T12:13:00.000-07:00

friends, parties, swimming, water activites.....sounds like summertime fun!

Heather is at Girls camp this week. Next week Jr. Guard at a city pool.

Happy Sunday

2011-06-05T13:20:00.000-07:00

Great music. I love the emotions of all the performers.

we're celebrating a birthday for the 1st time

2011-05-31T20:08:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Travis!

Lauren and Travis have been married for 10 months now. He's an awesome son in law and we're so happy to have him in our family.

T terrific
R righteous
A amazingly awesome
V very cool
I incredible
S super

He fits great with my other kids doesn't he?

I feel so lucky to have him as a son in law.
He's wonderful and wonderfully perfect for my daughter. What a blessing.

Happy Sunday!

2011-05-29T13:15:00.000-07:00

I belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
I know who I am.
I know God's plan.
I'll follow him in faith.
I believe in the Savior Jesus Christ.
I'll follow his name.
I'll do what is right.
I'll follow his light.
His truth I will proclaim.

Five Question Friday 5/27

2011-05-26T20:12:00.001-07:00

1. Do you apologize to your kids?
Yes! I'm not a perfect mother and sometimes I make a mess of things. I take responsibility when I mess up and I think it shows by example how to treat others respectfully. I apologize when I make a mistake and I expect my kids to apologize when they make mistakes.

2. What color are your nails right now?
no color

3. When you were growing up, how difficult was it for you to stay home from school sick? (As in, did you have to vomit or just say "I don't feel good".)
I have no idea- don't remember being sick from school. I probably didn't want to make up the work. I do think that my mom would have let me stay home if I really wanted to.

4. When is the last time you bought a new comforter for your bed?
I bought a new comforter when I got new curtains. Must of been last summer. I have 3 or 4 different comforters that I can change out when I get tired of one

5. Favorite website(s)?
I could go on and on about this question (Amazon, Facebook, Craigslist) but I'll leave it at these design and craft blogs. They are some of my favorites:
320 Sycamore
Be Different...Act Normal
Better After
Hooked on Houses
how does she?
My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia
Thrifty Decor Chick

Stop by My Little Life to see other blog answers and join up too!

It's official

2011-05-20T12:24:00.000-07:00

He's ready for Kindergarten. What a sweet boy! Such a blessing to be his mommy! Pictures of his preschool class and teacher Miss Kris. He's been with her for 2 years now. She converted her 2 car garage into a classroom. It's a fun, happy place to learn.
When we came home he said, "Well, that was an adventure!" Love that kid!

2011-05-18T11:55:00.000-07:00

Nothing like relaxing by a fire roasting marshmallows.

a good one...

2011-05-15T22:47:00.000-07:00

My daughter shared a story about me on her blog. One of my "How to get the kids to do something moments" when they were little. Tell me what you think ingenious or mean?

Happiness Project (April 10-May 10)

2011-05-13T23:49:00.000-07:00

I joined Naomi @ Seven Cherubs on a Happiness Project (along with 100 other people). We were to keep a journal, writing one sentence per day for a month of something that made you happy that day. By the way Naomi is a blogger from Australia. Here's mine....

April 10- Visited with my sister in law Kamala on a Sunday afternoon. I haven't seen her a for a long time. Catching up with family always makes me happy.

April 11- Went to the park with my kids, watching my 5 yr. old son play while having a fun talk with my 15 yr. old daughter.

April 12- Putting an ice pack on my sore neck!

April 13- I had extra free time today and headed to DI (a thrift store)

April 14- Shopping with my daughter and watching a movie with my son.

April 15- I used my Kitchen Aid to make cookies with my son.

April 16- I had a long visit with my neighbor.

April 17- I finished giving a talk in church and a lesson in YW's and didn't get the two confused in my brain. Talking with my two oldest girls on the phone.

April 18- I got a new purse.

April 19- Mailed out cards today to grandma, grandpa and my missionary son.

April 20- Visiting teaching with awesome women who I love talking to and learning from.

April 21- Seeing Heather's face when she passed her written drivers test.

April 22- Winning a book from Lesa's blog giveaway.

April 23- I ordered pictures at Costco and got ready for Easter.

April 24- Made some yummy food. Church was wonderful.

April 25- Great conversation with my husband. He came home with flowers for me.

April 26- Loved listening to my daughter tell me about school, friends and her life.

April 27- Got my hair cut and colored.

April 28- Weekly emails from my son always make me happy.

April 29- Flying to spend the day with my daughter. Loved every minute of today.

April 30- Attended the marriage of my niece, Jeni in the Portland Oregon temple. Beautiful!

May1- Landing back home after being gone and seeing my family.

May 2- Cleaned the house

May 3- Getting vaccinations for my son who will be entering Kindergarten. ( I should clarify this one- He was very brave and didn't cry at all. He said the other kids were crying because they were afraid but he wasn't. He was pretty proud of himself which made me happy.)

May 4- Going on a walk with my kids.

May 5- Going to the store with my son dressed as a pirate (his idea) and seeing the kind reactions given to him.

May 6- Date with my husband.

May 7- Dinner and movie with the family.

May 8- Mother's day phone call with my son who is in Indonesia.

May 9- A fun FHE (family home evening) that ended up at Dairy Queen for Blizzards.

May 10- Signing up my son for Kindergarten. My baby is growing up.

This was a fun project. I've learned that it's really the simple things in life that make me happy. Spending time with my family. The relationship I have with my husband and children are my most precious and are what make me the happiest!

Here are others who are sharing their happiness journals.

Five Question Friday 5/6

2011-05-06T06:50:00.000-07:00

1. Have you ever had roommates?
Yes when I was in college. Some fabulous ones and some a little kooky.

2. How many names do you/your children have? (i.e. Prince Charming William Phillip Arthur Louis John Jacob Jingleheimer-Schmidt)
We each have a middle name.

3. Did you watch the Royal Wedding?
Sort of. I was up at 3am packing to leave on a trip. When I turned on the TV Kate was walking down the aisle so of course I watched until she got to her prince. While I was waiting at the airport I saw lots of news footage so I feel like I didn't miss much.

4. What is the messiest room in your house?
The messiest rooms are the master bathroom and the garage.

5. What is your ideal mothers day?
Being with my children or speaking with them if I can't physically be with them. A nap would be good. Husband cooking dinner would be good too.

Look what came in the mail

2011-05-05T13:30:00.000-07:00

I won a giveaway from Lesa at Notes about Music Notes. What a fun way to win by answering questions about music everyday for a week. Very clever Lesa.

I love this songbook and have been coveting it for some time now. The photos are gorgeous. The songs are some of my favorites and I love the backgrounds for how the songs were written. Thanks so much! It looks good at my piano doesn't it?
Actually its not my piano...I grew up with this piano and learned to play on it. My mother (who bought it) gave it to my oldest daughter who is a fantastic pianist. Since she's away at school its being housed here. We are enjoying it for her!

My weekend

2011-05-03T13:05:00.000-07:00

I was a jet setter this weekend. Headed to Portland, Oregon for my brothers, oldest daughter, Jeni's wedding. The wedding was Saturday morning. I decided to leave Friday morning and spend the day with my daughter who is in Utah. So my first stop was SLC. Nicole and I had a great day. We did whatever she wanted to do and had lots of great conversation.

Here we are at Fuddruckers for lunch.

Can you guess where we are? It snowed while I was there. Crazy Utah weather! I'm so glad I spent the day with her. She's so awesome! She has a great job working for the LDS church and will be an EFY counselor for part of the summer.

Back on a plane for Portland. Here's my brother Dave and his wife Tina.

The happy couple Jeni and Bryan

I loved how beautiful Portland was and couldn't help but take pictures of the beautiful temple grounds.

The wedding and reception were beautifully done. No pictures though I was too busy enjoying myself. Great memories.

Something was waiting for me in the mail on my return home.
That post to come.

2011-04-23T12:30:00.001-07:00

This is one of my favorite songs.
Happy Easter

Five Question Friday 4/22

2011-04-22T08:15:00.000-07:00

1. What is your favorite Easter tradition?
We love to go to the Easter Pageant "Jesus the Christ." It's the largest outdoor pageant in the United States. We went last night. Always gets me in the right mood for Easter.

2. Are you a "shower" or a "long, hot bath" kind of person?
I'm a shower taker. If I had the right kind of tub, maybe I'd take baths.

3. Can you parallel park and if so when is the last time you did it?
The last time a parallel parked officially (not going in forward) was at my driver test. So no I can't parallel park!

4. What is your favorite Easter candy?
Starburst jelly beans and chocolate bunnies

5. Easter: do you go all out with the Easter Bunny or focus on the religious part of the holiday?
We keep Easter Sunday on the religious part with church and family dinners and have the Saturday before for the Easter egg hunts. At least in a perfect world it would all work at that way.

Five Question Friday 4/15

2011-04-15T00:06:00.001-07:00

1. What is your favorite sign of spring?
flowers

2. What was your best birthday ever?
I was given a surprise birthday party when I turned 30. That was a good one!

3. What is your favorite dessert?
cheesecake

4. What is the best excuse you've ever used to get out of a ticket?
No excuses just apologize like crazy. A flirty smile doesn't hurt either.

5. Do you wake up before your alarm, with your alarm, or after hitting snooze several times?
Usually I don't set an alarm I just wake up unless I have to get up really early. Then I set the alarm and wake after one snooze.

Lauren and Kym

2011-04-14T13:30:00.000-07:00

I'm sharing blog links today!

One is my daughter Lauren. She entered a cutest couple photo contest. She needs likes on the photographers facebook page and on her entered picture. If she wins they'll get a free photo shoot here in AZ. Yeah! That means a visit!

A little background on Lauren. She and Travis got married last summer and they are away at school working hard and having loads of fun together.

The other is Kym my childhood friend. Kym and her husband Mark recently moved to Tokyo Japan. They experienced the earthquake first hand. She started her blog when they arrived there and has documented their experiences. If you're interested here's the link.

A little background on Kym. We were in the same ward together in NJ. She is in remission right now for breast cancer. She's an awesome women with a big heart.

inspiration

2011-04-11T07:44:00.000-07:00

I love this! I have so many frames lying around and family pictures that need to be displayed. Doesn't this wall look fab? Wouldn't it be great to look up and see your favorite people all together? I'm hunting for wall space today!

Five Question Friday 4/8

2011-04-08T09:30:00.000-07:00

1. If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?
The pain in my neck, literally. I had surgery this week. It was more evasive than I thought so it will take more time than I thought to heal. But I am on the mend and have pain pills so it's all good.

2. Write about a time when you got lost.

I always get lost when I drive. I have a terrible sense of direction. We now have a GPS in our car so I don't get lost anymore!

3. Camping or 5 star hotel?
I prefer hotels to camping in tents. Sleeping in the dirt, waking up to a porta potty and cooking/eating in the dirt are not my favorite things. I do like to go hiking.

4. Have you donated blood?
Yes

5. Do you have a budget or do you 'fly by' most months?
Definitely a budget. I take out money weekly and it's up to me to see that it lasts. If it doesn't then that's it. I don't get more. Being a stay at home mom I feel that it's my responsibility to stretch my husbands paycheck. I try to be wise with my purchases.

d day

2011-04-06T07:45:00.000-07:00

This is the day! The day that I've been putting off for 4 years. Last year it was scheduled but I backed out. Well today's the day!!!!

Surgery day...and surprisingly I'm not freaking out. It must be the right time! I'm getting 2 soft tissue masses removed from the back of my neck. Nothing is wrong with them just nasty looking lumps.

Spreading Happiness

2011-04-03T12:30:00.000-07:00

I wrote this post 5 days ago but chickened out on posting it. I found my courage this morning watching General Conference. Love you President Uchtdorf.

If you see one of these young men in your neighborhood (white shirts and ties with name tags from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints) it's safe to stop and talk to them. They're good boys who have chosen to spend two years servicing you and your neighbors. They have a message about God and his son Jesus Christ. They will bring peace, answers and love to you and your family.
People sometimes ask me why I'm so happy. It's because I know who I am, what I'm doing here on earth and where I'm going. I have peace and direction in my life daily that strengthens me and helps me to do what I know are the right things for me and my family.
Do you have questions about your life and are searching for something? Happiness is not found in more money or worldly success . It is found deep within. True happiness can be found. I find it in my church. Here's a website if you'd like to learn more and here's a post about my missionary son.

Thanks for listening.
Lisa

*In the above picture my son is on the far left.

2011-04-02T01:47:00.000-07:00

Bunnies

Why not personalize your decorations?
This is one of my kids favorite Easter decorations. All it takes is a good pen and a steady hand.

Five Question Friday 4/1

2011-04-01T09:30:00.000-07:00

1. Have you ever had surgery?
Yes. Tonsils, C section with the twins, gall bladder removed and next Wednesday I'm having two soft tissue masses removed. It's the surgery I've been putting off for a long time.

2. Ever ride in an ambulance?
Nope...........whoops that's not true. I'd forgotten about the time I was in a car accident driving home from college. I was the passenger and got thrown from the VW bug we were in. The driver fell asleep at the wheel. I had a bad concussion. I remember being picked up and carried by a paramedic but the entire ride to the hospital I was unconscious. I came to in the exam room. (since then I never sleep as a passenger to help keep the driver awake)

3. How are you in a medical emergency? Panicked? Calm?
With my family a bit panicked but otherwise more calm and controlled.

4. Do you have a garden? Flowers or veggies?
Sadly no. At our old house we had a huge vegetable garden, beautiful flowers and rose bushes but here a pool instead. I do miss it. I even miss the weeding. It was relaxing in a weird kind of way.

5. When did you move out of your parents house?
at 18 when I traveled across the country for college.

Friend Makin' Monday: Questions

2011-03-28T09:47:00.000-07:00

1) What is your favorite physical feature?
My skin. I live in a very dry climate so I baby my skin with lots of moisturizer. It's very soft and smooth.

2) List three adjectives that describe you.
happy, thoughtful, silly I asked my husband and he said: awesome, beautiful and fantastic.
He is such a keeper!

3) How old were you when you had your first kiss?
in Kindergarten on the school bus. Officially, 16 with the boy I'd been crushing on for years.

4) Do you believe in God?
Most definitely

5) How often do you watch the news?
Daily. It's important to be informed but the news can be so scary. I enjoy news magazine shows where the stories are more in depth.

Come to Kenz to link up.

clean floors and basketball

2011-03-19T22:51:00.000-07:00

I have a Shark floor steamer. Randy and I were watching an infomercial on TV about it. It sounded good but really is it too good to be true. My floor needed help so we bought one at Walmart. Today I tried it out hoping it was as good as they said it would be. and....it was. It's easy, quick and does the job. My floors are clean, really clean with not much effort.
I'm a happy homemaker.

There's been major March Madness at our house.
We saw our team make it into the "sweet sixteen" for college basketball.
My son Andrew would have loved to see this.

To celebrate the win we took the family for burgers. I had mine with mushrooms and grilled onions. So good!