The Wright's

Families ARE Forever

2010-07-27T17:40:00.004-07:00

Oh so many tears. I came across this blog http://patrickandashley.blogspot.com/ in a round about way from blog hopping. My heart stopped when reading this tragic story. As a mother I can't help but have heart ache for this family. I wouldn't know what to do, I don't know that I could go on living if my child was taken early (in my opinion of course, but ultimately it's the Lords plan right) from this earth. Their precious little girl returned to Heaven thru a tragic accident. My heart & prayers go out. I can pray & pray but I as a mother wanted to do more, so I'm posting this song which is available for download to help with all their medical costs. I may not know them personally, however, one parent to another, we are connected. I hope & pray that the Lord sends his love & sends angels to this family to help them thru this horrible time in their life.

Preslee's Song

Hard Blessings

2010-07-13T10:30:00.009-07:00

Wow, we seem to be having quite a few hard blessings right now (but who isn't right?). I'm grateful for these hard blessings, grateful that I learned from an amazing family that trials are hard blessings & don't have to be so negative. Looking up these future blessings makes them easier to endure that's for sure even though they are still hard, however, I know without a shadow of a doubt that the Lord knows us better than we know ourselves.

I'm grateful for the Gospel and my relationship with my Father in Heaven. How do people survive in the world without that relationship? That astounds me. I'm grateful for my husband who works hard to be a worthy priesthood holder, that I can call upon him morning, noon or night to receive a blessing. I'm very blessed in my life & sometimes I need to remember that, I need to remember that more often.

We've had several funerals in the last year (I think 10) each one, I walk away with something new. This last one was from another amazing lady who lived just shy of 99 yrs. Her family talked about her testimony & that they always knew she had a strong love for the Gospel & for our Heavenly Father & Jesus Christ. She made a point to write it down, so that the kids, grand kids, etc... will always have that to read. She also made a point to serve other but more importantly her family. I love my family more than anything & if these hard blessings have taught me anything it is that this is the time to really teach my kids old school stuff clothes line, washing dishes by hand, etc...). There will come a day when we won't have the luxuries we have now & this is the time to teach them not later. So going "green", saving money & teaching my kids how to work more with that hands all go hand in hand.

I love my calling, it has allowed me to step out of my comfort zone quite a bit & I've learned to like it, which for me usually means, it's coming to an end :(. I have grown to love Dee Cherry & Judy Mckinstry as 2nd moms. I have tons of respect for them & their wisdom. They've been gone traveling quite a bit this year (they both have lost their moms this year), as stressful as that was I was able to step up and really serve the sisters in a way that I haven't before & guess what? I LOVED IT!!!

My kids well, they are getting antsy, school starts in a little less than a month & they can't wait. Rusty has made a new friend in the ward, Ethan Stein & they get a lot great. I'm so glad that he has made a friend in the ward that has so much in common. He's had some struggles this kids this year, it's been quite sad. He's a good kid but I need to remember that he needs to learn to make his own friends & that he doesn't have to be friends with everyone.

Kennedy well she getting bored this summer & really really really can't wait for school. She lost her 1st tooth over the weekend. Her tooth was so small, she actually swallowed & didn't know it. She was so worried that the tooth fairy wouldn't come but our tooth fairy ROCKS!! She left a note along with $$$.

horrible blogger

2010-07-03T17:45:00.003-07:00

I am a horrible blogger, I admit it. I do it while it's still new & fun but then I get bored, (shame on me).

I'll do a quick update on the fam.

Kennedy

She will be six 2 1/2 month (where did the time go??). She finally has a loose tooth, what the heck, I didn't say she could grow up. She finished Preschool with flying colors. I wasn't surprised. She loved LOVED school. She loved her teachers just as much. She was sad when she first heard that kindergarten was 1/2 day but then they offered all day, thank goodness. $170 of pure happiness. She a busy body, loves to sing & dance just not in front of people. She is still shy but doing a lot better. She loves Primary. She's ready to be big girl. What more can I say she is as girly as they come.

Rusty

He will be 11 at the end of the year (ouch, that hurts). He's doing great. Lost off of his teeth. Braces are the next thing to discuss but after this next school year, paying for Kennedy's school is priority. He's okay with it. He did great over at Copperwood, loved it so much better that ALTS, a lot less strict & a ton less homework. It helps when most of the ward goes to Copperwood as well. Rusty's ready for the 5th grade. He is currently working on reading the Book of Mormon for the 2nd time this year. His Primary teacher challenged her class to read it once & so he finished in May & is almost done for the 2nd time. It's a great challenge & he loves it.

Me & Orville,

Well, not much new except we've decided to go more green. We cut out the use of the dryer for the most part & also cut out the use of the dishwasher. We will save so much on electricity & water (from the dishwasher). The kids so far are loving it, they love the clothes line under the patio. They both get to help with laundry & dishes. We made it exciting by going green, since it's all over the tv, news, schools,etc... The kids want to know what other ways we can go green. Other than that, nothing else new. Business is barely staying afloat in this economy. We now have a facebook page, we will be doing some advertising, new website & we both feel very good about making some positive changes.

Life is good, we have our trials but we are making the most of it.

Picture Time again!

2010-03-13T08:54:00.002-07:00

Claire Waite Photography is giving away a photo shoot. She is the one that took our photos last year. Who doesn't want more family photos? Umm, not me. I LOVE LOVE family photos. I've been blessed with an amazing family so of course I want pictures to show them off.

Here's her website: www.clairewaitephotography.com

Here's her photography blog: www.clairewaitephotography.blogspot.com

I'm a horrible Mom :(

2009-12-19T15:29:00.000-07:00

Rusty's 10th Birthday has come & gone & I didn't even post about it. I'm horrible, :( So sorry.

Our little man is now getting to be a bigger man, that's right HE'S 10!! Can you believe it? I can't, where did 10 years go? Well, having fun, going to school, church, growing, loving Rusty, loving him more, teaching him, him teaching us, Rusty being the best big brother around, Rusty being the best son around, we laugh together, we cry together, he's a great friend & a great example of Christ like love. No matter what he will love you & will pray for anybody & everybody. He's growing up so fast & quite well I might add. We've been so blessed since day 1. He has a heart of gold.

Rusty got a birthday dinner w/my parents & our closest friends the Beaubien's. John was out of town this year so it was just the girls. Rusty got spoiled again, he got a cool faux paintball set (HUGE), instead of paintballs it's foam balls. Make not mistake they HURT! So it's targeting shooting only. He also got the new Mario Nintendo game & a $50 gift card. He was supposed to go to the midnight movies with Daddy but was so tired, his allergies were acting up all day, so he tried to stay awake & couldn't. :( So he & Daddy will try for a daytime showing of Avatar. We'll make a date out of it, Kennedy & I will go so The Princess & the Frog at the same time. We finally have some down time so we are all enjoying it, especially Rusty so he can play with the paintball & nintendo game back & forth over & over.

WE LOVE YOU RUSTY!!!!

Such a slacker!

2009-09-04T15:04:00.002-07:00

My apologies. I've been horrible at blogging. I've been so busy unpacking, kids off to school, etc... We've been in the new house for about 6 weeks and still unpacking. AUGH!!! Almost done. Rusty loves his new school, LOVES IT!!! Kennedy loves preschool & I mean LOVES IT!!! She wants more school, she wishes she could go to school all day every day. That's my girl. I will post pictures soon, as I have a newer computer & I don't know how to shrink the photos down to a smaller size so I can upload them. So keep checking back. I will work on setting time aside to updating the blog with the ins & outs of the family. Kennedy is getting ready to turn 5! WOW, time flies. So with that being said, it gets even busier for us our here as soccer, birthdays, holidays, etc... Can't wait :) TTFN

So much so little time

2009-07-10T06:58:00.002-07:00

Let me start off by apologizing that I haven't blogged. It's been crazy. So much to say, girls camp, cub camp, packing, moving (YES we are moving, AUGH!!), Super Saturday, church, school starts in exactly 1month, school shopping, it's blazing outside, more packing, etc...

When I have more time, I will devote more time to updating. I'm so sorry.

Right now check out facebook, I update there because it's quick & easy. Hang with me, I'll be back soon. :)

2009-06-20T11:30:00.001-07:00

We r going thru a carwash. AUGH.

HaPpY BiRtHdAy to ME!!!

2009-06-20T06:00:00.002-07:00

WOW, I can't believe I'm **cough cough** umm 33 ** cough cough**. WOW, times sure flies. I'm having fun. I have been very blessed so I thought I'd share 33 things about me that you may or may not know.

I love to scrapbook (I know, DUH), I love to help others, I love my calling, I can't wait to have another baby, I am a social person, My favorite colors are pink & purple, I loved girls camp,
I am sad girls camp is over, I do not like country music, I love being a mommy, I love being a wife, I love to clean (although you can't tell right now, so don't come over), I love to do yard work, I love goofing off, I love to cupcakes, I love to make cards, My favorite foods are: sushi, Mexican & hot wings, I want to own a pressure canner, I want to start a garden,
I am so disorganized, I don't like to have all the attention on me, I'm a little on the selfish side, I love music more than tv or movies, I don't watch much tv, I enjoy collecting food for my food storage, I enjoying learning about new ways to do food storage,
I actually am wanting to take a class or two (not sure on what yet though), I love glitter on my projects, I don't like spiders, I like scorpions even less, I don't enjoy the heat,
I hate the feel of cotton balls, I'm always chewing gum or have a mint in my mouth (fear of bad breath)

Okay so some are obvious. I hope you learned something. That was actually a lot harder than I thought, only because 33 is such a high number. Life has been so good to me. I don't go without my challenges & trials but I am blessed to have family & friends to help me thru it. Heavenly Father is always blessing me in some way everyday & every minute. I am grateful that the Lord has allowed me to be on this earth for 33 years to grow & to learn. I hope that I am making him proud.

Here's to HAPPY BIRTHDAY to me as I celebrate with my wonderful family.

Family Photo Shoot

2009-06-04T20:57:00.002-07:00

I love LOVE all these photos, there are so many more as well. In case I didn't mention it,

I LOVE MY FAMILY!!

Thanks to Claire Waite @ Claire Waite Photography

Memorial Day

2009-05-25T16:01:00.003-07:00

What are you doing today? Swimming, barbecue, parties? Well not us, Orville had to work and the kids & I went to Hobby Lobby (my favorite store, okay one of them) Anyway, Kennedy picked out face painting markers. I've never heard such a thing, until today. We had so much fun coloring each other. Forget all the other fun stuff. 1st we started out @ the movies, we saw Night at the Museum, Battle at the Smithsonian. Very good. I had such a blast with the kids.

Have I mentioned I have the best kids ever?? If not, I DO!!!

Anyway, here are pictures of our coloring escapades.

Rusty enjoyed it, however, asked that I not post his belly pictures. Can't say that I blame him, I wouldn't either.

Happy Memorial Day! Thanks to all who currently, will & did serve in any of our Armed Forces. Thanks for the freedoms we have today!

My little girl is gone!

2009-05-14T10:25:00.002-07:00

My little girl is gone, has anybody seen her? I can't find her, oh wait, Here she is, but she's not little anymore. She's a BIG girl! WOW!!!

Here's my now big girl. She's getting glasses, pink ones of course. What kinda girl would she be if she got another color one more practical. She loves them. Since she is still so petite we had to get littler glasses and a Fisher Price rep had to come in this morning. SHE LOVES THEM!!! She can't wait to get them and wear them all the time. She's so excited to fit in with the rest of us. I can't say that I'm all that trilled. I loved having her my little girl and now she's my big girl. I guess she has to grow up. She went from my cute little baby to my now BEAUTIFUL BIG GIRL. It's not like she's going to be 5 in September, but I was holding on as long as I could with having a little princess. I love my Kennedy, we are so close. Watch out world, she's ready to conquer you now. All we have to do is wait to get the glasses made. Luckily, I get to hold onto my little girl for a little bit longer. We should have her glasses soon.
WE LOVE YOU KENNEDY :}

2009-04-24T07:19:00.001-07:00

Check it out

2009-04-24T06:05:00.001-07:00

Check it out I post to my blog from my cell.

We just found out!

2009-04-23T06:37:00.003-07:00

We are doing it all wrong, no wonder why we don't have more babies. :}

Stake Conference

2009-04-20T21:06:00.002-07:00

Wow, what a Stake Conference. I was sure looking forward to this one. President Frank Forsberg has been serving (wonderfully, I might add) as our Stake President for the last 10 years. What an era. Orville & I got married & he was shortly called. We've had 2 kids under his stewardship. We love this stake! His councilors President Miller & Turley are fabulous as well. What men of God they are! There is no mistaking their testimonies.

I had no idea who the new Presidency was going to be, there is always speculation, which I'm way off on. They called Bishop Keith Forsberg, yes, I said Bishop. He is our current Bishop. 1st counselor is Bishop Todd Westover (previous Bishop before Keith) and then Bishop Dennis Cathcart (previous Bishop to LaPradera Park Ward). I know all these of these men personally. Love them all! This is a perfect fit. I'm so excited to be under there stewardship. I'm more excited that my kids will be under their stewardship. All 3 of these men are so youth oriented that my kids will be blessed greatly because of their love for the Gospel. All 3 are so vibrant and fun. I got to see the Lord's work 1st hand, these men of God took upon them the Glendale Stake's mantel. I've never really seen this before. Bishop/President Forsberg made a comment, "..If this is the Lord's will...well let's get to work" PERFECT!! I saw him before, during & after. What a difference in him or all 3 I should say. I saw them all grow up a little bit more. I got to see what is looks like for men of God to take on the mantel. WOW!!! For me, I was imaging what it would be like to hear the Prophet Joseph Smith speak when President Forsberg got up. I see these men as General Authorities.

THE SPIRIT WAS SO STRONG!

WOW, what amazing parents they had to teach them the Gospel. I can only hope & pray that I can teach my kids 1/2 as well. I want to raise valiant servants. I am married to a valiant servant. I never had the Priesthood in my home and I do now. I am soooooo blessed, words can't even describe. Rusty has such desires to grow up and be like President Forsberg, I'm truly blessed that he has such fabulous role models

As I am so excited to be apart of this, there is also sadness that comes with it. As I have to say goodbye to a Bishop. I've gotten to know him as part of my calling in the Relief Society. I've received council from him regarding my own life, my family, my kids, my callings. I will miss that interaction with him on a weekly basis.

I do know that his new calling is exactly where he needs to be. President Forsberg & his councilors will do amazing things for this Stake. I admire him as I do his councilors. I have a ton of respect for these gentlemen. I look forward to serving the Lord under them.

Along with this our ward now needs a new Bishop & Bishopric. Our Stake also needs a new Stake Young Men's Presidency. Things are a changing in this Stake once again, but that is the way the Lord needs it to be at this time. This change will be great.

Happy Easter

2009-04-14T06:53:00.003-07:00

Our Easter was fabulous. We originally had so many things scheduled that I was concerned that it was to much. It all worked out fabulous! We ended up not going to the Easter Pageant this year, Orville's been wayyyy busy and he ended up working Friday night. I don't dare tackle that crowd by myself. Saturday was supposed to be the Ward Easter picnic & then off to my mom's for Easter. Well, it rained so the the Bishopric rescheduled for next Saturday (I was sad, I look forward to those, we always have so much fun, however, we'll just have fun next week). My mom had to reschedule until Sunday (which was crazy because we were feeding the missionaries our tradition of boiled dinner & that needs to be in the pot 3-4 hours before serving, AUGH!!! CRAZY RESCHEDULING!!!) because my sister & nephew came in later than expected. So we ended up doing our Easter as a family Saturday night. We didn't do the normal Easter baskets for our kids. This year we decided to put all our focus on Christ. The kids each got a new picture of Christ w/a little child & then 4 books to share, all about Christ. This made Easter so much more meaningful for the kids. They really got to reflect upon the Resurrection and what it meant to them. We asked Kennedy first what it meant to her, she instantly, ETERNAL FAMILIES! Rusty went on to say, eternal families, eternal life, forgiveness & most important LOVE from CHRIST! I'm so proud that even our 4 yr old gets it. Most adults don't. Sunday was Easter, we went to church which of course was beautiful! Mom had to cancel because Mikey (my nephew) was up all night sick, super sick to. Poor guy. Didn't want that! Nana came by with HUGE Easter baskets for the kids. They were both so excited to see the baskets but they were also very excited to show Nana what we had given them. So back on to New England Boiled Dinner (cabbage, ham, potatoes, carrots all boiled together, YUMMMM!) We watched the Testaments, which is about the Resurrection of Christ. The missionaries came and ate dinner, & loved it! All in All it was fabulous! It was quite the relaxing weekend when it didn't start out that way. Thank goodness, we have a super crazy busy week and weekend coming up.

Claire Waite Photography is the person for you!

2009-04-13T15:49:00.001-07:00

If you are looking for a way affordable photographer, boy do I have one for you. She does FABULOUS WORK!
http://clairewaitephotography.blogspot.com/

Congrats!

2009-04-13T08:38:00.003-07:00

Congrats goes out to a dear friend of mine, Amy Dozier. She & her hubby just had there 2nd baby boy on Saturday around 10am. He's so stinking adorable. Congrats!!! Harrison Dozier, weighing in at 8lbs 7oz and is 21 1/2" long. Easter time what a special time for this little one to be born. In time to celebrate Christs' Resurrection.

Congrats Amy & Collin Dozier :)

I'm a Proud Mama again!

2009-03-30T06:29:00.004-07:00

Rusty did it again, he made me cry! Darn it! In a good way of course. Picture it, Sunday morning, Kennedy's eating breakfast, I'm helping the kids fill out their tithing slips. I start to explain the meaning of a fast offering. Most of you know me well enough to know that I don't explain things very well most of the time, however, I did this time (thank to the Lord help of course.) Rusty at 1st wasn't to thrilled but once Orville said it helped people in our ward who are struggling and that right now with the economy there are more people who may need help. Rusty ran into his room and got the last of his money to give w/no question. He wanted to give it all. I instantly was overcome with the Spirit and was in tears. This is my 9 yr old. He's always wanting to help, but to give the rest of his money, WOW!!!! As we filled that section out, he wanted to know what the rest meant. So I explained it, he wanted to give more. He was eagerly going to give up his 4 gold dollar coins. I explained that he should save those and we could break up the money have gave to fast. He did, he gave into the Temple Construction & he said it's because he knows temples are so important and that it helps bring people closer to the Lord. He also gave into the Humanitarian Fund, to help people around the world that don't have what he has. Again, he's 9! He AMAZED US! WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU RUSTY! YOU ARE SUCH AN EXAMPLE. WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH! Needless to say Rusty felt the Spirit that morning. We all were overcome with the Spirit. I wasn't planning on going to church as I was not feeling well, but how could I not after this. How could I not show gratitude to my Father in Heaven for sending us such a special boy. I am eternally grateful for both of my kids. They give their tithing with no question. We have 4 jars for the kids, 1: Tithing, 2: savings, 3: mission 4: spendable. The 1st 3 jars the kids put 10% in and the rest they keep. I'm so grateful that we have started this, the kids love to see their newsletter from the bank come and tell them how much money they have and how much interest they've earned. They are ready for another bank deposit. Yesterday, Bishop Westover & Cathcart gave an amazing lesson about the raising of our children. It was fabulous. We must be doing something right, Rusty gave his money to help others. I only hope & pray that we continue to do what is right.

WHEN MUCH IS GIVEN, MUCH IS REQUIRED!

FUNNY!!!

2009-03-25T14:07:00.003-07:00

This video is sooo FUNNY!!! Make sure you turn up your speakers, so worth it. So glad Orville wasn't one of these daddies.

Shout OUT!!!

2009-03-24T20:29:00.002-07:00

I LOVE YOU ORVILLE!! You are sooooo amazing. You love our kids, you work hard, you are a worthy Priesthood holder, You serve the Lord with every fiber of your being, you're supportive, encouraging, You stuck by me when I went through a very dark & difficult time in my life. I am so excited that I married you, you are my best friend, the love of my life. I look forward to spending the rest of our lives & eternity together.

I LOVE YOU!!!

Catching Up

2009-03-24T07:07:00.004-07:00

Wow, It's been a while since I posted about our family. Shame on ME!

Rusty:

Well, spring break has come & gone. It was great to sleep in and have friends over to play. We got some quality time in there. I sure miss my little man. He's doing great in 3rd grade. He had some art published up at the Deer Valley Rock Art Center, he had a poem publish (book on order), he's getting all A's except for one B. Can't complain. He's doing great. Growing and growing by the minute. He's about ready to grow into a size 5 shoe. I'm trying to tell his feet to hold out 8 weeks. Yes, 8 weeks, school will be out!! YEAH!!! Wait, we'll then have a 4th grader and then a 10yr old at the end of the year. Maybe, I shouldn't be so excited.
Daddy, went on this years field trip and all the kids loved it. Rusty even loved that he had the "cool & fun" parent.

Kennedy:

Well, she's doing great as well. Sad to have her brother back in school. Now she's bored. I guess Mom isn't good enough anymore. We were going to have her test for early entrance for Kindergarten, however, rumor has it the state no longer does early entrance. We are looking into that one. Just in case we have her signed up for Preschool w/Miss Linda. I hear she is FABULOUS!!!! Kennedy is sad she isn't going straight into Kindergarten, but is excited to be going to school. Payten Cherry will hopefully be going to Miss Linda again, that way, Kennedy will know somebody. She loves church and all her friends. She is such a social butterfly. She's such a girlie girl. Loves dress up, changing her clothes a million times a day, jewelry need I say more, Barbies, dollies, etc... She's already said she wants a Barbie party for her BIRTHDAY!!! She's gonna be 5 in September, where has the time gone!

Orville:

WOW, things with hubby/Daddy are almost the same. Even though the economy has slowed down, not us. The business has been sooooo busy. WE LOVE IT!!! Orville is gone a lot working. He still makes his family time of course. He's been working a lot with a new company ACCU-TEMP AIR, so if you ever need your home A/C looked at, give them a call. Our previous Bishop is part owner. A very good friend of ours is also working up there. Can't get any better then that! He's been able to still deal with other clients. LIFE IS GOOD!!!!
The boys are gearing up for the Father/Son campout in May, so are the girls! Us girls have fun except we sleep & don't get dirty.

ME:

Well, I've been a HUGE slacker as far as the Catholic challenge goes, I've failed. Not growing up Catholic, I didn't really put the importance on it. SHAME ON ME :(! Anyway, I'm back to exercising. I've started eating a lot less. I would love to start Take Shape for Life under Bil & Julia Morrill, however, money still doesn't permit it. So, I'm working on doing it on my own. We'll see how it goes, anyway, I've been busy helping run the business, phone calls, deposits, etc...I need to learn Quick Books, so I can help more. Church is great. Love my calling! Been working a little on Genealogy on my father's side of the family. LIFE IS GREAT!!! HEALTHY FAMILY, WE ARE SAFE, HAPPY AND ALL TOGETHER! WHAT MORE COULD ANY ASK.

Wanna Be a Catholic for 40 days??

2009-03-04T08:02:00.002-07:00

Hey, wanna join in, in on a Catholic Challenge? My best friend started herself on a Catholic Challenge, the nutrition version. She's giving up all processed sugar. WOW!!! What a Gal! She called & was telling me all about it. I of course jumped on board with giving up chips & french fries. I've done very well so far. Go ME!!! I have now decided to include any fried foods. See, I don't have a sweet tooth, it's the fat & salt that I crave. Not only will I make myself healthier, but I will drop weight which is something that I've slacked HUGE on! Remember that is takes 21 days to make something a habit so this will be good, hard, but rewarding.

Anybody on board? I know I'm a week behind on this post, so anybody on board let's start today and not worry about the past.

What are you going to sacrifice/give up for 40 days? What is your "evil" weekness, food, drinks, any bad habit.

Pay it Forward

2009-02-24T13:19:00.001-07:00

this is how it works..... the first 3 people to leave a comment on this post will receive a hand made gift from me during this year. when and what will be a surprise. BUT, in order for you to leave a comment on my blog, you have to post this on your blog first. (that means that sometime during this year you will send a gift to 3 people as well.) get it? so, the first 3 people to comment on this post will be the lucky ones!
good luck!

I so stole this from Katrina, thanks for the great idea. I was wanting to do another contest & here it is sorta. I love making things for people.

Happy Anniversary

2009-02-18T19:44:00.002-07:00

Here's wishing my parents a happy anniversary. Today is/was their 31 yrs anniversary! CONGRATS!!! I have awesome parents and I'm so grateful for everything and I mean everything. I've been so blessed to have parents who have always loved me. They were always there for everything I've ever done good & bad. I'm so grateful for eternal families. Here's to wishing you many many more years together!

LOVE YOU MOM & DAD!!!!

Bragging Rights

2009-02-11T18:59:00.002-07:00

I just wanted to share that Rusty's recent art, from his art class just got entered into the Deer Valley Rock Art Center Children's Art Exhibit 2009. It runs from 3/3-3/31/2009. There even is an awards ceremony on 3/28 where all kids will receive at least a participation ribbon. We are so excited and so proud of him. It is open to public viewing up at

The Deer Valley Rock Art Center
3711 W. Deer Valley Rd

Just an update, he is still running in the mile club & is still #1 in the school. He even begs me to drop him off in the neighborhood to let him run, again, we are so proud. He's getting all A's only 1 B in an accelerated school. He's excelling in Cub Scouts, he just earned his Wolf, & has been signed off on a TON of things in his Bear book.

We are so proud of you Rusty. We love you sooooo much!!!

Kids & Ice Cream trucks

2009-02-03T18:06:00.003-07:00

I can't believe I forgot to post this. It was so funny.

The other day, I think Thursday, anyway. I promised the kids several weeks ago that the next time the ice cream truck came by I'd buy them something. Well, low & behold he

came by. Rather fast I might say, but the kids went screaming.

We ended up in the car with the windows down and the kids yelling for the ice cream man.

Now, if any of you have been in our neighborhood, there's only 1 main street. So the ice cream man couldn't be hiding. So down the street we go, we ended up in the neighborhood behind us. We go driving by and the kids scream "There he is, there he is." So I pulled the car

in reverse to go down that street. Mind you now we have on lookers laughing. We go

and buy the kids ice cream and they are extremely happy. The things us parents do to make our kids happy. It was so funny and in the end we all had fun, we even came back with a treat for Daddy.

Early years photos

2009-02-03T11:49:00.002-07:00

Okay, so here is a Dr I used to work for up at Natural Life Centers. We actually worked very well together professionally.

Here is the one and only high school dance I went to, my senior year 1993 Homecoming.

Here is Kyndal Mass & I, we were such best friends, same clothes, brand and all, even the same shoes. This was taken our senior year 1993-1994.

Here is a super long time friend & I, Jaime Gouso. Geez, I think taken way back in 1993 or later 1992. I'm so bad at dates, & of course I didn't date it. My dad will be so disappointed. He dated EVERYTHING!

Here is Danee Lee, Jennifer Hopper & I. This was a spur of the moment photo shoot. Danee happen to work at Moto Photo and she needed to stop in to pick up her paycheck & the next thing I know, we are taking pictures. I believe this was 1996.

Part timers=Alzheimers??

2009-02-03T06:58:00.005-07:00

So here I come across this picture on Facebook, it was posted on an old friend's site. I of course go check it out, I love old pictures. Mind you, I've known this girl since we were 3, she lived across the street. We grew up together. Anyway, low & behold, I'm in this picture. I even had to ask my mom to make sure that was me. The really sad thing is, I soooo don't remember anything about this picture except for the 1 girl that I grew up with. I don't remember the gal/leader that's in the picture, how old I was, what we were doing, nothing, zilch, nada. How sad is that?

Can any of you guess which one is me?

The winner (the 1st one that correctly guesses, will win a prize. a small set of personalized stationary). Let's have some fun. Remember, I had to ask my own mom because I didn't recognize myself. Have fun :)

2009-01-31T09:13:00.002-07:00

These are cupcakes that I recently made. I love LOVE to make cupcakes. My favorite are the mini cupcakes. These are a combo of chocolate mint cupcakes & chocolate chocolate chip w/a homemade chocolate butter cream frosting. My frosting is plain butter cream, I hate butter cream. It also has sour cream in it, for a creamy & smooth texture.

These cupcakes are a Devil's food w/white chocolate chips in it and cream cheese frosting. I made about 5 1/2 dz mini cupcakes. 3 dz went to Rusty's cub scout Den meeting and then I of course gave a ton away. I love to bake, don't necessarily love to eat it. These ones, Kennedy did all the decorating herself. Both of the kids are learning they love to cook. Rusty loves to cook &

Kennedy loves to bake.

Things I've recently made

2009-01-28T20:43:00.003-07:00

I've decided to upload pictures of things I've recently made or things I'd like to make. Since this in my journal.

1. This is a little booklet I made for my Weight Watchers journal, it's got my journal where I keep track of what I eat, I also made note paper in the back for random notes for whatever reason. Orville made the weight watchers journal part. What a talented hubby on the computer.

2. This is a baby boy card I just made this week for a friend who gave birth to their 6th child. 4 girls & 2 boys. Way to go!

2009-01-28T19:48:00.000-07:00

2009-01-25T06:55:00.002-07:00

This came from a friend of mine & I couldn't say it anybody myself, so I just copied her words. DITTO!

Today I was driving to lunch, listening to the radio when I heard something so ridiculous, I laughed...then I was just annoyed.
The simple word
{ PRAYER }
has been deemed "unconstitutional" to be said in schools...because the WORD
{ PRAYER }
might possibly lead to questions involving religion and/or God.
Are you kidding me?

Over 90% of Americans believe in God...why is it that less than 10% can have such a crappy impact on EVERYTHING??

Nobody cares if you believe in God, which God that may be, or if you don't believe in anything and think we ended up here on a whim...Nobody is asking anybody to actually PRAY, but some how we are now deeming a simple WORD

UNCONSTITUTIONAL!!

What is wrong with this world!? What is wrong with this country?? If you don't believe something that someone else believes, does that make it wrong?? Does that make it offensive?? Does that make it

UNCONSTITUTIONAL??

Freedom of religion is one of the reasons so many died in order for America to become free. Doesn't freedom of religion include the freedom to NOT believe whatever you want?? Just because God isn't something or someone you believe in, we all have to suffer without him?? What about the 90% of us that DO believe in God?? Maybe it's OFFENSIVE to me NOT to have the word PRAYER used in schools. If someone doesn't believe in God and there is a prayer said...can't that person just be respectful and have a moment of silence to think about whatever it is that they do believe in..??

What happened to this great country being the "Home of the Free" & "One Nation Under God"?? We are now spending our time and money to have words deemed UNCONSTITUTIONAL

Who has time to do this BS?? And why..??

This is becoming the Home of the Cry Babies that want their 15 minutes...

**proudly posted by Randi (who DOES believe in God and the use of the word PRAYER)**

DITTO RANDI!!

Why spend $25/month

2009-01-12T13:19:00.002-07:00

Someone please tell me why I was wanting to spend $25/month for the gym? I've got an elliptical trainer (on loan from an amazing friend), a Total Gym, a treadmill, hand weights, exercise ball, step, & videos galore. I've set up a portion of my room w/this equipment. I've even printed out daily exercises. Not only will I save $25/month, I'll save about $25 in just gas if not a little more, I'll save time. My house will be cleaner, I'll get more time w/Kennedy. So not sure why I was so eager to go. I do like the social aspect & that I miss a ton already. I miss taking Powerflex which is taught my one of my closest friends (she rocks by the way). She is my motivator. So today was the 1st official day of my entire workout at home. Kennedy was able to watch tv in my bedroom, while I did 1 hour on the elliptical. I took a break to get a few things done and then I came back to my weights. Today was leg day. Everyday is cardio and abs, but then I have it broken down into legs, arms, shoulders/back, buns & abs, & just abs. So here's for trying something new. Today was a great day, I feel great. So here's to me looking great by my birthday. I want to look better at 32 than I did at 22.

Family Photos

2009-01-06T09:25:00.002-07:00

These photos were taken up at the Mesa Arizona Temple. It's been SOOO long since we've done pictures, that it was about time. Kennedy is quite the ham, she LOVED having her picture taken in all the trees & such, as you can see Rusty didn't. Gotta love being 9.

HaPpY AnNiVeSaRy!

2009-01-01T08:25:00.001-07:00

Happy Anniversary Orville. Today is our 10yr! Wow, time sure flies. It's a been a wild & fun ride. Thanks for always being there for me. Thanks for putting up with me and all that I bring. I love you. Here's to ETERNITY!

MeRrY ChRiStMaS!!!

2008-12-25T12:52:00.003-07:00

What a fantastic day. Love seeing all the smiles & listening to all the giggles from my kids. We cut back (we never go crazy w/Christmas) this year (like most people) & it was better than last year. The happiness is fantastic. I love my family & we've been blessed.

I LOVE MY LIFE!

2008-12-23T15:19:00.003-07:00

Kennedy actually let me curl her hair & she ended up loving it. So much so, that anytime anybody touched it, she was scared it would flatten her hair.

These pictures were taken right before church, before the kids could spill on their clothes. They were fresh & beautiful.

So there you have it. Updated pictures of our kids. It's been a while. More pictures to come soon, we are working on FINALLY getting a family photo, so if the clothes look familiar in those you'll know why.

My baby is 9!!!

2008-12-16T20:40:00.005-07:00

WOW!!!! Well, actually tomorrow 12/17.

I'm actually quite emotional, my Rusty is growing up so fast. He's 9! Can you believe it? I can't & I gave birth to him, I just can't believe it was 9yrs ago. Rusty, you've been one of the biggest blessings in our lives. The Lord sent us a special spirit. Rusty we are so PROUD of you. You've made some HUGE changes this year and we couldn't be more proud. You've excelled in school, you've joined the mile club at school & not only learned how much you love to run, you broke the school record and continue to widen that gap. Your love and concern for everybody around is so amazing to me, I have learned so much from watching you interact with Kennedy. The love you both have for one another is amazing & rare. You never cease to amaze me.
I won't go into details about the day you were born, but I will tell you, you were 4 weeks early. You & I were VERY sick. I didn't get to see you for 3 days, because I was still so sick & I couldn't get up and walk very much, luckily Daddy was there in the special care nursery with you. You were sooo little but your spirit was SO HUGE.We didn't know if you were going to be able to come home with us, but the Lord made sure you were well enough. The Lord knew we had to bring you home. I knew from the moment we got pregnant that you were very special & the Lord has told us as much in many many blessings. We've been blessed beyond measure with you as our son. You are the best son, big brother, friend, etc.... WE LOVE YOU! Glad to be your parents. HAPPY BIRTHDAY RUSTY! HOPE YOU HAVE A FANTASTIC DAY!

Christmas Spirit

2008-12-14T06:54:00.003-07:00

I so stole this idea, but I couldn't pass it up. I LOVE IT!!! This is one of my favorite songs of the season.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2008-11-27T10:41:00.003-07:00

Things I am grateful for (no order of importance of course):

* Savior
* Family
* Orville
* Rusty
* Kennedy
* Friends
* Our Health
* Our Home
* Our Safety
* Our Business
* Part-time jobs
* Food Storage
* My Callings
* Orville being a worthy Priesthood Holder
* My parents doing most of the cooking today
* Having a 2nd car, so I can help my grandmother & others
* Having both my parents still alive
* My Eternal Family
* The Gospel
* The Gym, I love exercising
* Rusty learning the love of running
* Being able to stay home w/Kennedy
* Being able to be home w/Rusty after school to help w/his homework
* Food, as so many don't have what we have
* Grateful for the rain

The list goes on and on and that in itself I am eternally grateful for. I have been truly blessed.

Reflections of Christ

2008-11-18T06:43:00.002-07:00

I have been trying to add some verbage to the video below & I kept getting an error, so I guess I'll have to do it this way.

For those of you who don't live in Arizona, or haven't seen these pictures they were showcased up at the Arizona Mesa Temple earlier this year. BEAUTIFUL!! The spirit was so strong. I'm so grateful to be a member of the Lord's church, especially at this time of turmoil. I know all this is necessary & signs of the times. Sunday's R.S. lesson was amazing, Jill Brady gave us hope as life starts to get hard and will continue on getting harder. We as Latter Day Saints know & knew this was coming but we ALL have the love of Christ if we chose. Christ loves us all not just the Christians, but us all! That is truly amazing and I am so blessed to have Christ and Heavenly Fathers loves in my home and family. This is the time to pull together not apart.

2008-11-18T06:36:00.002-07:00

This & That

2008-11-08T21:25:00.002-07:00

I just need to post about random things.

RUSTY
Rusty has been fantastic. He's doing so much better at school. He joined a mile club at school, where you run 60 miles (3 mile cards, 20 miles each card) and you get entered into a drawing for an I-Pod, of course, he's so motivated. He's already on his 3rd card. You can enter up to 9 cards I think. He's ready to enter all 9. He now gets the urge to run on the weekends. GO RUSTY!!!! His grades have improved (although, they have always been great), he's doing a lot less talking. Halloween, Rusty was an Army soldier, he wants to grow up and join the army after his mission of course. Rusty's still in soccer with the best coach EVER!! Can you guess who that is? I never said I wasn't vain. hehehe. I love coaching his team, it allows me to be closer to him and have more time with him. It's great. I love the time we spend together, you & I have grown so much closer. Rusty I am so proud of you, you have no idea. You amaze me as we've talked about this election, talked about the propositions, the Gospel, etc... How stinking smart you are and grown up you really are. You are so strong. You have taught me so much. The Lord sure blessed my life with you. Thank you. I love you so much there are no words to fully comprehend the amount.

KENNEDY
She is doing great, learning more and more each day. She's ready for school. She misses the cut off by 16 days, so Orville & I have decided to get her tested to see about entering early into kindergarten. She's doing great in gymnastics, most days she loves it. She's so girl, she changes her mind and her clothes like crazy. Her attitude matches that as well. She so funny, she loves to sing & dance. We were at a play that was put on by our Stake, written by a gal in our ward. When there was music she was in the isle dancing. It was so funny. She's been eating me out of house & home, so I've been waiting to see what body part was going to hurt for this growth spurt. Well the pain & attitude kicked in last night. She was carrying on and on about her legs. I finally gave some Tylenol & about 20 minutes later she stopped. She's been extra cranky because now, she needs extra slept. So she's back to taking naps, of course not at a good time, she waits until about 4pm to take a nap. This has been an ongoing battle, I'm losing, can you tell. I just let her sleep and put her to bed about 30 minutes later than Rusty. Kennedy, I love you, you are my ray of sun shine during the day. You sing, you dance you are so happy. You have taught me so much, how to be happier, goofier, to wrestle, to box, to dance silly. You are so amazingly smart. The Lord has blessed my life immensely with you as well. Again, I love you more than there are words.

ORVILLE
Well, same ol' same ol'. Not much is different with him. The business is slowing down (imagine that, the economy is tanking at the moment), so he's trying to see what he can do to drum up more. He is thinking of actually going back to school to expand his knowledge and be able to expand the business. WAY TO GO!!! Since he was in the Army way back & go injured (knee surgery) he's got full benefits from the V.A. YEAH!!! He can go back to school on their dime. Vocational school that is, that is fine with me. They will even pay him some sort of salary, since he won't be able to work during school time. Not enough to live off of but hey, it's something.
Orville missed another one of Rusty's soccer games this morning because he had a client in far east Mesa. We were blessed, not only to get paid but we were treated to Krispy Kreme donuts. I don't like donuts but these were extra good today. The kids have been in Heaven. Thanks for always thinking of us, that is one of the many things we love about our Daddy & Hubby. You are such a hard worker. You amaze me at how strong you are and all the MANY MANY things you've overcome. I know I take you for granted, but I am grateful that you are a part of my life.

ME
Well, I've been slacking in my weight loss. Not that you couldn't tell, I haven't posted anything. I've been quite lazy lately and lost my focus. Right now, I've been applying for part-time jobs like crazy (see Orville's blurb, business, slowing, etc..). My current application is for part-time at BCBS, which is where my mom works and has for over 25 yrs. The only thing is, it's during the day and I need to get a sitter. But it's weekdays only, no holidays, no evenings, etc...Know anybody with little ones at home and is way trust worthy? I'm quite depressed over having to leave her. The other jobs are night jobs, but still depressing even more so, because I'd be gone from Rusty that much more. Also, would have to work weekends, holidays, etc... But I've got to do what I can. I know the Lord will bless us & knows my pain, he actually told me once in a blessing when I had to go back to work full-time when he was 4. So I feel that same reassurance from the Lord this go around.

Love of my Family
I just want my family to know how much I love each and every one of them. I am so proud of Rusty, Kennedy & my hubby for so many amazing reasons. I can't even begin to explain, simply because it brings me to tears as the Lord as blessed me so greatly & continues to on a daily basis. As things change in the government, laws passed, etc... I fear what's next but at the same time, I am even more grateful that I have the gospel and the knowledge of our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. I am grateful for the power of the priesthood and that I have it in my home. I was not raised with it in my home but I have it now! I'm so grateful that both kids love the gospel. I am ever so grateful that I have a family that is sealed for all time & eternity. I could go on and on. I just wanted to express my love for my family and this amazing Gospel that I belong to. Thank you family for loving me!

Orville's being ARRESTED, HELP!!!!

2008-10-29T09:55:00.004-07:00

PLEASE HELP!!! ORVILLE IS BEING ARRESTED!!!!

https://www.joinmda.org/glendalelu/orville

GO HERE TO HELP BAIL HIM OUT!!!! HELP!!!

More info to come later

Example shmample

2008-10-23T22:09:00.004-07:00

Boy howdy, teaching by example! So true so true especially when you least expect it. Today Kennedy & I were on the couch snuggling when all of a sudden she starts doing sit-ups. Counting and all. She did 10 full sit ups, then several crunches after that. She even then pulled me on the floor to "teach" me how to do sit-ups, not the crunches but the full sit-ups and had me do 10.

Rusty, came home today so excited about running a mile. They have this goal at school that if you run so many miles you'll get a card and once you get 3 cards, your name will be entered into a drawing for an I-Pod. Mind you each card is 10 miles, so that means he has to run 30 miles to even be entered into the drawing. He can run up to 10 cards (don't ask, the math doesn't equate, this is coming from an 8yr old). Anyway, he is now excited. He even has another kid "training" him to be faster so he can get all 10 cards done by before the drawing. He even asked me to run with him. I'm so not a runner. I can do spin, I can do the elliptical trainer, lift weights, but run? Must be kidding, but of course, I'll run w/my Rusty. Anything to encourage him and keep him motivated. Heck, it'll be another excuse to exercise which is become a HUGE love of mine. Plus, I get to spend one on one time w/Rusty which is the best reward EVER!!! We don't get much one on one time since he's in school. Glad to see he has found something he's starting to love.

Who needs a rollar coaster?

2008-10-22T11:16:00.003-07:00

Obviously not Kennedy. We were on our way home this morning from taking Rusty to school. When Kennedy asked to have all the windows down (normally we do, to enjoy the cooler weather, but today we didn't because she's not feeling good). So I appeased her and all of a sudden, there she was being a spaz and screaming with her arms as high as she can get them screaming yippy, weeeeee as loud as she could. I wish I could have taken a picture, but in the interest of safety, I chose otherwise. No need for another car accident. It was so funny.

On another note, Rusty's been asking a lot about Prop 102 and why people would want to go against God and marry within the same sex. It has been quite amazing as I've been able to really teach a lot of Gospel principles. I got to explain again, that the Lord loves the sinner not the sin. Today was especially good and I was in tears as the Spirit was really strong and he even got teary eyed. We both vowed to do a little better to please Heavenly Father and Jesus since after all he made the HUGEST SACRIFICE for us. My Rusty is growing up so fast.

I'M BACK IN FULL SWING

2008-10-20T13:22:00.003-07:00

Well, I'm back in full swing of my weight loss. Since my weight loss has been m.i.a. I've unfortunately put on 6 lbs. YUCK!!! I feel gross, which in turn has me eating, which I feel gross. It's a vicious cycle. I decided yesterday, ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!!! I don't want those pounds. So I'm getting rid of them + tons more. I hit the gym hard and I'm signing back up for more spin classes to get my going. I'm back to being way motivated and stronger than before. I'd like to have another baby so I need to hit this harder than ever before. Hopefully, the Lord will bless us with another angel.

I have so many other things to post about along with pictures of some of the fun things the kids & I have been up to. So look for those.

Recording God's Blessings for Future Reassurance

2008-10-15T15:25:00.001-07:00

"When our children were very small, I started to write down a few things about what happened every day. Let me tell you how that got started. I came home late from a Church assignment. It was after dark. My father in law, who lived near us, surprised me as I walked toward the front door. . . . I knew that he had been building a system to pump water from a stream below us up to our property."He smiled, spoke softly, and then rushed past me into the darkness to go on with his work. I took a few steps toward the house, thinking of what he was doing for us, and just as I got to the door, I heard in my mind--not in my own voice--these words: 'I'm not giving you these experiences for yourself. Write them down.'"I went inside. I didn't go to bed. Although I was tired, I took out some paper and began to write. And as I did, I understood the message I had heard in my mind. I was supposed to record for my children to read, someday in the future, how I had seen the hand of God blessing our family. Grandpa didn't have to do what he was doing for us. . . . But he was serving us, his family, in the way covenant disciples of Jesus Christ always do. I knew that was true. And so I wrote it down, so that my children could have the memory someday when they would need it.

"Henry B. Eyring, "O Remember, Remember," Ensign, Nov. 2007, 66 67

GO BLOGS!!! I need to do better about writing about the everyday stuff.

This and that

2008-10-12T21:55:00.005-07:00

I have so not been good at keeping up with my weight loss. I've lost my focus and my drive, so I'm putting it out there for any and all help. I was on quite a roll until we went camping several weeks back and haven't gotten back on track. HELP PLEASE!!!

Last night our ward had an amazing adult fall social. It sure was fall night. It was quite chilly. We prayed for the wind to die down and guess what??? It did!! See, Heavenly Father does answer prayers. The night was fabulous. GO DIANA & her committee. We have a carnival just for the adults. It was so much fun, I so want to do the moon jump again, what a work-out.

Since it was an adult fall social, my parent took the kids overnight, since we didn't know how late we would be gone. It was so nice to come home to quiet. So nice to go to church and be able to listen, however, this Sunday was incredibly noisy in sacrament. I missed my kids at church, especially after the block when they come into the Relief Society room and tell me all the things they learned in class. I didn't get that part today. Instead we picked up the kids who are incredibly sleep deprived (love slumber parties @ Nana's). Rusty is sick & fell asleep in our bed about 4pm, & Kennedy was bouncing off the walls & wouldn't settle down until almost 9pm, you'd think she ate sugar & drank Pepsi. What a great Sunday. I love having my family together.

I'm so ready for this cooler weather. I'm excited to save some $$ on electricity, windows open, fall activities, warmer clothes. HEY, I get to wear warmer clothes without looking to HUGE. YEAH ME!!! Bummer, I got some cute sweaters for Christmas last year that will be to big, that's okay. I'll pass them along.

Anyway, enjoy!

YES ON PROP 102!

2008-10-08T06:32:00.002-07:00

HECK YEAH ON PROP 102, SAVE THE FAMILY, ONE MAN & ONE WOMAN!

SORRY, GOT MY WORDING MIXED UP, I'M SO GOOD AT THAT!

NO ON PROP 102

2008-10-07T06:31:00.002-07:00

For any of you who live in Arizona, should be aware of Prop 102 by now. This is so important to the future of our children. As we raise our children we've already had to discuss the issue w/Rusty who is only 8. I just explained about a man marring another man. Rusty quickly said that's not how God wants it! YEAH, go Rusty. I then explained that our loving Heavenly Father loves all his children just not the sin.

SO PLEASE GO AND VOTE, THIS ELECTION IS SO VITAL TO OUR COUNTRY.

Save the Family!

2008-10-07T06:29:00.000-07:00

2008-10-05T19:45:00.000-07:00

Kennedy's B-day

2008-09-30T18:09:00.005-07:00

Well, here are pictures from the big day. We had her open a few gifts the morning of only because she had gymnastics and she got a new leotard, which ended up being to small so Katie was fabulous in letting us exchange it for a bigger one. We then spent the day doing whatever she wanted and then went to dinner at a restaurant of her choice. APPLEBEE'S takes the cake. She loves that place. We went w/our good friend the Beaubien's. Yummy food, plus they have the best Weight Watcher food around. It's soooo good.
CAN YOU TELL HOW OLD KENNEDY IS? SHE POINTED TO EVERYTHING SHE SAW THAT HAD A #4 AND HAD ME TAKE PICTURES.

She has to tell everyone or have me tell everyone that she is 4 now. She is so proud of her age.

WE HAVE SO MUCH FUN EVERYDAY. THANKS FOR HAVING A BIRTHDAY. WE LOVE YOU TONS AND TONS AND TONS MORE! THANKS FOR BEING OUR LITTLE PRINCESS!!!

Update on Weight Loss

2008-09-30T06:28:00.005-07:00

Before camping I hit a HUGE goal, I hit 21.8 lbs gone!! I'm so excited! Here are pictures. I'm not wearing gym clothes like in the past, but by george, I love getting dressed now!

Look, white pants!!! For me this is GIGANTIC!!!! They had to be loose, I even when and bought capri style g's for these pants. LOVE THEM!!!! I got these pants from a friend of mine who went from a size 16 to a size 6. GO CAMIE!!!! She's my motivator/personal trainer.

This was enough to inspire me and motivate me to get back into working out hard and really watch what I eat. I had 3 pairs of pants hanging on my wall in my bedroom to motivate me, well 2 of the 3 fit and are comfortable I have 1 more size 12, but I need to hang some more clothes up. It's nice to be back in the blogging. Thanks for the inspiration and letting me know I was missed, I didn't realize I had inspired others. WOW!!! That means a lot. My main goal in this was to keeping inspiring myself. Glad I am able to inspire others. Baby steps are how it all starts and it snowballs from there. Also, the hard work is so worth it! YEAH US!!!! Keep up the work, I'll go back to posting on a regular basis.

It's been a while

2008-09-29T13:37:00.002-07:00

Shame on me, it's been way to long. I have pictures to post from Kennedy's birthday, updates on my weight loss, etc.... But I had to change my background as I LOVE HALLOWEEN!!! It's so much fun, I love the dressing up, and the parties. I don't care for all the candy but love everything else about it. I am working on a cute Halloween decoration & will post pictures of that soon. My weight loss was good for a while and then I got off track by going camping and ever since ate like crap and my weight shows it and my stomach, well, YUCK!!!! So today I am back on track. I will post those updates once I get the pictures downloaded and stuff. I've been so busy with school, gymnastics, soccer, etc.... LOVE IT ALL!!!! It gives me more time to spend with my kids. I get to go up to Rusty's school every other Thursday to volunteer in class to grade and/or whatever his teacher needs. I love to see Rusty interact in school. Kennedy loves gymnastics and she's getting pretty good, luckily Katie has fabulous patience with all the kids, she's great at it. So look for several posts coming. Have a fantastic day.

It's my baby's 4th birthday!!!

2008-09-16T21:01:00.005-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KENNEDY!!!!

I can't believe it, she's 4!!! Where has the time gone. Oh I know, having way to much fun being her mommy! I am the luckiest mom in the world. I could give you 4 reasons why I love her but there is no way I could narrow it down to only 4! Heavenly Father has blessed this family with Kennedy. She is a spit fire, but she is so loveable and so darn cute. I can't believe she is 4! I will post more after I have pictures of her on her Birthday! We love you Kennedy! You are growing up so fast. We are so proud of you!

I'm a proud Mama

2008-08-30T06:49:00.003-07:00

I can finally post about my amazing Rusty. He has been so good. Last week, I woke up and could barely move my neck. I of course, call the Dr. Cathcart to come get a adjusted. This is the 1st time, I balled trying to lay down and then to get adjusted. I came home put ice on my neck. In the mean time Orville had to go to work, he's been so busy. I took 2 Advil's & Rust played nurse, helper, babysitter, etc... He was amazing. He made sure I did my ice just like the Dr ordered. He was so sweet and fabulous in taking care of me. He helped wrangle lunch together for him & Kennedy. At one point, Kennedy went to take a nap and Rusty & I got to spend some alone time. It ended up being a good day, even though I was in pain. Rusty has really made some huge improvements this year. He so much nicer and kind. He is really trying in school and isn't talking as much. We've been going to the dermatologist to get some warts removed. It's quite painful as they are freezing them off and using blistering agent. This past Thursday was his 2nd treatment and he got brave and had some of the warts frozen off on his hand. This go around, he's got more blisters, they are dark and really gross looking. I sent him to school on Friday and I picked him up w/his hands wrapped in gauze. Some kids were scared because they looked so gross. His hands didn't look that bad Friday morning. I felt so bad, we immediately went to the store to get "sticky ace bandages" so we could reuse them and he wouldn't have to be embarrassed anymore. My poor Rusty was so sad. Today, Rusty & I get to go spend the afternoon together, we haven't spent alone time out of the house in so long. Orville has to work, but he is taking Kennedy with him, fortunately, it's only home stuff and then off to the Bishop's house to return their computer. I have a Baptism this morning, & Rusty has to go help a friend clean out the garage as he has to be responsible for some minor trouble he got into a few weeks back. After I get home, off to lunch Rusty & go, anywhere he wants. Then we are going shopping, he finally had a growth spurt and is in need of all new shirts for school and play. Soccer starts this week, I'm so excited, I get to be the head coach again. I love coaching the boys soccer. I get to be w/Rusty and get to learn a new sport. Rusty & I went to Blockbuster last night, we came home & I just looked over at him and started to get teary eyed. What an amazing kid I have. I love my Rusty so much. As he grows up, I am so proud of him. He's really trying to make the right decisions. He talks about wanting to be a great missionary when he grows up and he even talks about how he can be a missionary now and his good behavior will show kids his age, how you can have Christ in your life and still have fun. I love you so much Rusty. You are so good and turning one of my yucky days into a good one, by loving me and making me laugh. The Lord blessed us beyond belief when he sent you to us and then blessed us even more when he sent Kennedy. The love you have for your sister is amazing. Your heart growing bigger and bigger and you are such an example to me of pure Christ like love. You love everybody and want everything for everybody. WE LOVE YOU RUSTY!!!

Official Weigh In

2008-08-29T16:47:00.002-07:00

Well, I'm down 1.8 lbs of the 2 pounds I put on. So I'm almost down to my lowest. I will be below that by next Friday. I took 2 really hard spin classes this past week. My goodness, I was sore. I don't think I've ever sweat that much in my life. It was crazy. I'll be taking 2-3 a week for the next 5 weeks to really drop weight. So here's wishing me luck. I get to go eat Sushi at our favorite restaurant tonight, ZEN 32. Rusty is going and is eager to try their California rolls & the Philly Roll with me. I bet I can get him to try the Spider Roll as well.

Better late than Never, weigh in

2008-08-27T07:06:00.002-07:00

Well, I did weigh in on Friday. Sad to report, I'm up 2 lbs but down 1% in body fat. So at least something is moving. I paid to take a harder spin class last Friday. LOVED IT!!!! I decided that I'm going to pay for 10 of these classes, this will take me 5 weeks. So I'm going to give myself 5 weeks of working out even harder, being incredibly disciplined with what goes in my mouth. The only "cheat" day I give myself is Friday. We are going out for sushi and I love sushi with a diet coke. I usually drink about 4 soda's while I'm there, because I eat so much wasabi, my mouth is burning and my eyes are watering. I will fill in more later, my kids have been amazing, so more to come. Just need to go to take Rusty to school and the gym for my 1st of the 5 weeks of kick butt classes.

2008 Olympics

2008-08-20T14:27:00.007-07:00

The past 1 1/2 weeks have been great bonding time between Kennedy

& I. We both LOVE to watch the Olympics. I'm amazed with all that is going on in the world, we all "seem" to take a "time out" for the Olympics.

Kennedy really loves the Gymnastics, hence, we are signing her back up

with Miss. Katie as she calls her. She has turned her garage into a gymnastics studio. THANKS KATIE!!! I used to do gymnastics, but I am such a klutz (I know, I know, not hard to imagine), I didn't do so well.

Oh, Michael Phelps, Kennedy is in love. Sorry Calvin, I think you've been replaced. Kennedy can spot Michael Phelps on the TV or if she hears his name, she comes running. She even asked, how old he was and I quickly exclaimed much to old for you. She was disappointed as she wants to grow up and marry him. She doesn't want much does she?

He is amazing! Way to go!!

Oh, these girls are fabulous! I've watched them for so long. I love volleyball. I love that we have TIVO, so I can record it and watch it and then fast forward thru all the other stuff. Kennedy loves to watch this with me as well, she says her girls are on and she yells right with me. Kerri Walsh missed a block and she yelled, "COME ON, GIRLS, LET'S GET IT TOGETHER!!!" It was so funny.

ALL THE OLYMPIC ATHLETES ARE AMAZING! CONGRATS TO MAKING IT!

Weekly Weigh In

2008-08-16T10:02:00.003-07:00

I was so swamped yesterday, that I forgot to post yesterday. I once again, was successful at this weight loss war. I am down .6, not a ton but I'm down. I'll take what I can get, especially since I was down so much last week. YEAH ME!!! Almost 10 lbs down. This next week, I'll step it up. Part of my problem is that I am so sleep deprived, it hurts. So I will be sleeping tonight & tomorrow. So see you next week.! Here goes another great weight loss week.

Updated Picture

2008-08-13T13:45:00.005-07:00

Okay, so I took pictures of myself. It's was exactly 1 month ago, that I took the 1st pictures. I really can't tell the difference, however there is 11 pounds less of me. This one is hard for me, only because it's white. I'm so used to the tops being quite a bit looser, so I'm not sure if I'll keep it or take it back. I had to go buy new gym clothes, because the other tank tops were literally falling off. That's good! I would be working out and the straps were falling down my shoulders, so kinda embarrassing. But at least they were falling off due to them being to big. I figure I'll take pictures every month on the 11 and then post them.

So Funny

2008-08-12T09:51:00.001-07:00

Rusty's 1st day of 3rd grade

2008-08-11T13:32:00.010-07:00

I can't believe it, he's in 3rd grade. WOW!!!! He was so excited to go back to school this morning, he was up earlier than I was. I wasn't quite ready for the morning at 6:15. I know that's not as early as most but early enough for me right now. I need to get back in the swing of things w/a 6am wake up for me, that allows me reading and prayer time while the house is still quiet. We are so blessed to have Daddy, a worthy priesthood holder in our home, who gave Rusty a father's blessing. Orville has done this every year before the 1st day of school. Rusty looks forward to this blessing, to hear what Heavenly Father has to say. Of course, Kennedy wanted a blessing and I couldn't be left out. What a great feeling to know that I can call on my hubby anytime and the kids can ask their daddy anytime for any reason. Rusty still wanted us to take him up to his class room, which I was glad for.
I was scared that he hit the

"MOM, you're embarrassing me" Fortunately, not this year. I didn't take pictures at school, he gave me that look. So i restrained myself. Rusty is growning up so well. He loves to go to church, & help others. He stands up at takes responsibility (most of the time) for when he has done wrong. Ask him anytime for help w/water barrels, food storage, yard work or even his sister, he'll jump right in. I am one proud Mom and couldn't ask for a better son or daughter. We are incredibly blessed when the Lord sent us these 2 kids.

Official Weigh In

2008-08-08T08:00:00.003-07:00

Well, I'm not sure why I weighed in last night and then to post it. Such a dork. It's been a strange week. I'll just chalk it up to the weather and being a women. Well, I'm proud to say I'm even down 1 lb from yesterday. So that puts me at 3.4 from last week and total of 9 lbs in 4 weeks. YIPPY!!! The total since May now being 17 lbs off. The only bummer is that my fat % went back up. We have a crazy day, starting off w/meeting Rusty's 3rd Grade teacher, Mrs. LLoyd and then off shopping and then a Stampin Up party, oh yeah, Rusty has a birthday/slumber party tonight as well. So fun fun.

I'm on a roll!!!

2008-08-07T18:00:00.003-07:00

I'm a roll, down wards. I'm so excited! I feel better than I have in so long. I weighed in and dropped 2.4 pounds!!! To top that off, I'm down 2% body fat. Finally, I was beginning to wonder if that was ever going to budge, I even asked a personal trainer at the gym today about my body fat and he seemed a little bewildered that the pounds are coming off but not the fat%, so I'm scheduled for a test at the gym on Monday. Luckily, it's free. Thank goodness. Anywho, I am on top of the world. That puts me at 8lbs down since Fri 7/11. Not bad in 4 weeks. SINCE MAY I'M DOWN A TOTAL OF 16 LBS AND 4% BODY FAT!!! I feel more empowered and motivated that ever, this is amazing to me. I compare this experience to gaining my testimony of Christ. You work so hard for the end result, you do whatever it takes and during the process (for me anyways) I'm gaining a new & better me, pray & pray and pray some more and do whatever research I can and surround myself with the most uplifting people. All the while, I am gaining what I set out to achieve a better me! I still have a ways to go (including my testimony) but I know I can and I will. I will become a thinner healthier me that is stronger, confident and closer to Christ that ever before. Because of this, I hope I will become a better mom, wife, friend, daughter, sister, & most of all daughter of our Heavenly Father. This journey has been such a spiritual one, one that I am eternally grateful for. Thank you for all your words of encouragement and still welcome them, I know I still will struggle but I know I've got amazing friends, amazing family, amazing ward family and most of all I have Christ to help pull me along.

Happy Birthday ORVILLE!!!!

2008-08-07T06:50:00.002-07:00

I'm such a bad wife, Tuesday 8/5 was my hubby's 44th birthday. I can't believe it! I see so many blogs where they post all the reason's why they love the person's who's birthday is it for the amount of years they are. Well, since he's 44, that would take me forever and such a long blog. Just kidding, I do have more than 44 reasons why I adore my husband, I don't think I could narrow it down, so instead I'm going to post pictures of the kids and tell about our day. It went well. We made the day all about Daddy. Whatever Daddy wanted to eat and do. Orville took one client and then took the rest of the day off. During that one client, the kids & I decorated. Actually it was more the kids, I was just the computer lady who printed and gave them all the supplies. Rusty & Kennedy giggled while they cut & colored. It was great, to see the kids have so much fun. I wanted to show the kids that not all the decorations needed to be bought, but the that the ones we made from our heart will mean more and we'll have more fun. Boy did we ever. I was laughing so hard, I couldn't even take a pictures or a video of them coloring. They were just so excited. We hurried and hurried. The kids did a great job and of course, couldn't wait to give Daddy his gifts & share w/him. We then just layed low for the day and made a special dinner for Orville. Lasagna, garlic toast, peas & for dessert blueberry cheesecake. I bought the cheesecake, and you could tell. I didn't sleep much the night before due to severe allergies, so I took the easy road out and bought a Sara Lee original cheesecake. My cheesecake is SO much better, next time, I won't buy one, I'll just make it. So sorry honey! You deserve better, I'll make it up to you. I even bought the lasagna, that is a dish that I don't make well, luckily the lasagna was delish! I don't have pictures currently, due to Orville's computer being down, he is in the middle of transferring all his data fro the old computer over to a new computer. I'll upload soon.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ORVILLE!!! I LOVE YOU!!!!

Weekly Weigh In

2008-08-01T14:34:00.002-07:00

Well, I had quite the week. I'm up .4 lbs. However, I'm down over 2% body fat total. I got a little upset at myself this morning on the scale, but I do need to remember that I'm going to have up weeks, and geez its' only .4 not even 1/2 a pound.

I've been craving junk food and more junk food. One of my all time favorites are hot wings. Love them. That's a bad weakness. Any who, as I have really changed my eating, I would crave them like nothing else. It was horrible. I quickly discovered the reason was the potassium in the vinegar, so I started eating spinach, couldn't get enough spinach. I now eat spinach but have added drinking a couple tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. YUM! I have not acquired a taste for the vinegar. Anyway, the craving for hot wings came back this week. It was horrible. I drank more vinegar to curb that craving, it didn't work. So I caved last night and gave in. Boy those were some good wings. The good news is, I can only down maybe 6 small ones if that. YEAH shrinking tummy. Love it!!! I felt so relieved to have the craving gone, I then started craving more fried foods. I've come to the conclusion that not only was I needing potassium but also SALT!! Who would have ever thought, salt. Yes, your body still needs some salt. I don't eat salt very much anymore. Actually, very very little and most things taste to salty to me now a days. It's amazing when you change your eating habits how the "old normal" foods taste so bad. It actually goes to show you how bad I was eating. Not that you couldn't tell by how HUGE I was.

I do have good news, I was stretching one day after the shower, and I could see the outline of my ribs. I was beginning to think, I didn't have ribs anymore, I haven't seen the outline or any resembless there of in ummmm at least 10 years. YEAH!!!!! It's things like this, that keep me motivated. That and at my heavest, I wore a size 22-24 (yuck, I can't believe, I ever let myself get that big, GROSS) and I'm now into a 14. Hey, that's progress. It's taken a while but the eating is the most important aspect, sorry for those of you who want an easy fix, there is no such thing. Trust me, I tried and tried.

So all in all, I'm not to terribly dissapointed, I'll just work harder next week to drop the .4 plus 2-3 lbs.

Here's to a good next week.

Oh yes, school starts for Rusty in less then 10 days. YEAH!!! I'm looking forward to some girl time w/my Kennedy and of course, bonding time over homework w/Rusty. I love to see him come home with new things he's learned. He gets so excited or he tries to teach me. Which of course, the latter happens quite a bit. Things I've forgotten.

Feeling a little better

2008-07-30T06:44:00.005-07:00

Okay, so after I posted my struggles, it occured to me, to go find pictures. The 1st picture is me about 3 weeks after Kennedy was born. I'm still wearing maternity clothes and they were snug. YUCK!!!!

Here's me about 8 months after Kennedy was born. We were at the Annual Glen Lakes Easter Picnic.

This is me about 8 months ago, I was one of Rusty's soccer coaches. I'm proud to say, I've had to get rid of those clothes because they are so big.

I believe, Rusty uses it as a sleep shirt.

Here's me about 3 weeks ago. So, I guess I have come along way. I feel better and less likely to go "pig" out now. I now will go to the gym today and work harder. I'm grateful that the inspiration came, for me to look at some old pictures. Any and all words of encouragement are still wanted

Struggling

2008-07-30T06:38:00.004-07:00

I'm putting it out there, I'm struggling this week. I'm such an emotional person at home and I'm struggling this week. I want to eat everything in sight. Not sure why. Normally I would have weighed in by now just to check where I'm at & I haven't even done that. My official weigh in is on Friday (2 days from now). I'm a little scared. Please help, any/all words of encouragement will greatly be appreciated

Rusty

2008-07-29T10:13:00.003-07:00

Well, we finally took the plunge and had Rusty's 1st slumber party last Friday. What a blast. We played, ate, played and ate some more. What else do boys like to do? We had make your own pizza and ice cream sundaes. Each boy brought their favorite toppings for the pizza & ice cream. Nothing to gross, unless you hate marshmallow cream. Spencer ate that stuff straight out of the jar. For me that was gross, it was funny to watch all the boys play and interact. We had fun, but boy am I tired. Can't wait for the next one.

Rusty's 1st Slumber party

2008-07-29T10:13:00.001-07:00

Weight Loss

2008-07-25T12:28:00.003-07:00

I've decided that I'm changing my official weigh day to Fridays instead of Mondays. I know that, that is going to screw this week up or at least cut it short, but it works out so much better for me & I've always weighed in on Fridays until I started to blog it. So anyway, I'm glad to report, I'm down 1.8 lbs since Monday. Not bad for cutting it short 2 whole days, I guess, actually 3 days. WOW!!!! So, so far, I'm down almost 6 lbs in just under 3 weeks. I'm doing quite well towards my goal of 50 lbs off by January 1, 2009. I only have 44 more lbs to go with 23 weeks to go. I better step it up and get more ahead, because I know there will be a slow period in there. Since I've actually started working harder (End of April), I'm down 14 lbs total. I'm so excited. I'm only 20 lbs away from my wedding weight. YEAH!!!! That is way exciting to me. I do have to confess. I've been craving junk food, oh it's been all week. I've put if off all week, I caved today. I bought frozen hot wings, I ate maybe 6. My stomach already hurts. YUCK!!! Hey, the craving is gone, yeah!!!! My stomach still hurts, this is a great reminder, why not to eat this crap again. Wish me luck this weekend as I have a friend's b-day party (Camie, she's 40). There's always a ton of food over there, luckily she's quite a health nut so it shouldn't be to bad this time, turkey burgers, shrimp, diet soda, etc... She will have normal food as well, but luckily for me, I love the the turkey burgers & stuff. Have a great day, I'm sure I'll post again as I've become quite addicted to this blog thing. OH YES!!! I forgot, we are now proud owners of a Honda Accord, older, but hey, that gives us 2 cars. YEAH!!! FREEDOM!!!! Not to much, still have gas to pay for but I can now go to the gym, not carpool for school, etc...Life is great and we've been immensely blessed by the Lord and I can't thank him enough. So when life gets rough remember to count your blessings now matter what.

HAPPY 40TH BIRTHDAY CAMIE!!!!

2008-07-24T18:15:00.004-07:00

Camie is the one in the middle. I normally would never give up a women's age, but I have to brag about her. She is 40!!! Can you believe it??? She looks freaking amazing. She has become a fitness buff. She teaches a ton of classes at the gym, motivates people about healthy eating and still having fun. She does it all with love and class. She is training for fitness competitions, what gal. What an inspiration, she is my "trainer" in dropping my extra weight. She kick butt but all with love. I want to look 1/2 as good as she does by my next birthday. Although, she's not a member of the LDS church, she is a strong believer of standing up for what you believe it no matter what it may be.

I hope you have a fantastic birthday, you deserve it!!

Talk about Tired

2008-07-24T18:06:00.003-07:00

Talk about being tired. This is Rusty after spending 1/2 the day at the water park w/his buddy from school, Jacob. Rusty got a little sunburned so I put Aloe Vera on it, told him to let it dry and then we could go to bed. Poor kid couldn't even wait, he was so tired, his eyes were red. He was so tired that he even woke up in the middle of night complaining about his nose. Don't you hate it when you are over tired? Poor baby. Of course, he takes after his daddy, his sunburn is gone and turned into this beautiful dark tan. I can lay out w/tanning oil and still be white, although, this summer, I'm darker than I ever have been, but not on my legs. Kennedy takes after me, she has milky skin. It's beautiful, but there is something about a sun kissed skin.

The funniest thing

2008-07-23T16:36:00.002-07:00

I just had to share. Kennedy & I were spending some girl time last night as Rusty was off playing and Orville was off working. She said the funniest thing ever. We were talking "girl talk" about princesses, balarena's, and mommies. She said she couldn't wait to grow up, go to schoo, go on her mission, come home, go to more school, get married and then have 5 babies. I quickly asked why 5, are you sure? Of course, Mommy, I want 5. 3 girls & 2 boys. Only because boys are harder and with more girls you can have more girl time. I want 5 because I want to show you it's okay to have more kids. I want more than you. You are slow to have more babies. This 3 yr old of mine, sure knows what she wants. We'll see if it really happens and how many she really has. This will be something I have to show to her when she gets older, just so she believes me. What a funny girl. At least she has the order right, can you tell that's what we tell our kids? hehehehe. Thought I'd share.

Official Weigh IN

2008-07-21T09:15:00.002-07:00

Well, it's official, I'm down 2 lbs exactly. GO ME!!!! YEAH!!!! I was shooting for 3 and was actually down 3 during the week but went up 1 lb, bummer. I'm still excited over the 2 lbs. Not doing to bad. So far, I'm down 4 lbs from when I posted my public weight loss. So I have 24 more official weeks until I go on my anniversary cruise. So I can lose 50 lbs, no sweat. Or should I say, bring on the sweat? On another note, we as a family went out Saturday to look at houses and of course we found 3 that we both just loved, however, they are west of the 303 freeway off of G-way. That's a little far, anyway, we stopped at Red Robin to eat. I can not eat that much food anymore, plus a fattening hamburger, so not in my weight loss plan. You are able to order any hamburger off the menu and get it made into a child size hamburger. How cool is that? Did you know that? Anyway, I even at that couldn't finish all my hamburger. I only ate 3 fries, that is a miracle for me, for anybody who knows me, that is amazing. So I'm off to go eat some yummy NutriSystem breakfast. The food is actually not 1/2 bad. I'm quite surprised. Well, go have a great week and I'll post later. :)

No pain, no gain??

2008-07-18T10:36:00.002-07:00

I guess for me, it should say no pain, no loss right?? WOW!!! What a week. I've upped my exercise and my weights and so far it's paying off. I'm way sore today. I took spin class yesterday, it's been a while, but I loved it!!! I'm ready for more. I also played volleyball last night at church. Even though it was church ball, it was quite competitive and it was so much fun. Needless to say, I'm SORE!!!!! My toosh hurts so bad. That's good right? My biceps, triceps hurt from Wednesday and my hamstrings have hurt all week. The things, I'll do to keep up me shrinking. My trainer friend will be so proud. As of yesterday I'm down 3 lbs, however, officially I way in on Monday. So I'll let you know. I missed the gym today and will hopefully be going tomorrow. So wish me luck! I'm so motivated this go around, I'm on fire. Soon, there will be less of me.

Weekly Weight Loss

2008-07-14T11:37:00.003-07:00

Well, I'm down 2 lbs & 1.2% body fat from last Monday. Not to bad, I was hoping for more, at least I'm down. My goal this week is 3 lbs w/ another 1.5% body fat. Today wasn't my best day at the gym as the humidity is flaring up what little asthma I have so 45 minutes of cardio, I only did 4 miles on the elliptical trainer. I then did 1 hour of weight lifting which I had to stop frequently due to being over heated. Gotta love having 2 heat strokes/exhaustion in the past, I get over heated quite fast these days. That's okay, I'll take it, for the rain. We've had quite a bit this last week which is so needed. Here's wishing me luck this next week. I'll let you know how it goes. :)

Can't take the heat...

2008-07-12T22:48:00.004-07:00

On July 4th, we went out for lunch at Wild Buffalo Wings. We dared Rusty to try one bite of a Blazin wing, which is the hottest wing sauce they have. Rusty took the challenge and so did Marie. Here are the pictures after their first bite.

Rusty couldn't get enough to drink, and, well, Marie didn't quite know what to do. We had a great time and Kennedy couldn't stop laughing. By the way, Rusty was also playing the trivia game and did quite well.

My picture, :(

2008-07-12T14:41:00.008-07:00

Well, here they are, yuck! I'm actually quite mortified that I'm posting these (can't you tell) but here it goes. This will be enough to motivate me. This is me this morning before the gym. I know I don't look trilled but I should be, this is a new tank top, I went down another size. I started out w/X-Large tops and now in a medium tank. So that's good. I need to pat myself on the back, I'm doing what I'm supposed to. Just want it all off now. Since Kennedy was born I've dropped 45 lbs. Recently, it's been more inches then pounds, that's okay, because that is me still shrinking. I've gone down 4 dress sizes. Not sure how often I'll post pictures but I will post them. I will post the weight I lose each week. So here goes a new me! :)

A NEW ME, is coming!!!

2008-07-11T11:33:00.003-07:00

Okay, I'm putting it out there for the whole world to see. One of my very good friends is quite the fitness buff, she's amazing. Any who, I've talked her into "training" me. I want to be down an additional 50 lbs by my 10 yr anniversary which is January1, 2009. I've already dropped 10 but I want more. This way I have a deadline. This gives just under 6 months. I'll post pictures as I go. I don't have a current picture, but I'll post one when Orville brings home the camera. Any and all help will be greatly appreciated. I'm going to use this blog as my venting post. Most everybody knows I LOVE going to the gym, it's become such a part of me that I twitch if I miss a day. My friend is now going to help push me farther than I've ever been pushed, which of course is what I need/want. Orville & I are going to take the plunge and go on our 1st cruise to celebrate our anniversary and I want to look HOT!!! 1st and foremost Camie (my friend) told me to journal everything that goes into my mouth, every little exercise I do. So here it goes, I've dropped quite a bit of inches over the last little while but now it's time to kick it into super high gear. Any and all comments welcomed. Here goes to a new me! YEAH ME!!!!! Anybody want to join me, come aboard :)

MY BELIEFS

2008-07-03T07:14:00.007-07:00

I so rarely express my love for Christ & his Gospel, so here I go

I am blessed to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, yes,

I AM MORMON & PROUD OF IT!!!

I'm grateful that Orville & I are sealed for all time & eternity, allowing our kids to be sealed for eternity. I know that Joseph Smith saw the things he said he saw. I know that Thomas S. Monson is the true & living prophet on the earth today. I'm grateful that Orville is a worthy priesthood holder in our home. That in its self is truly amazing to me. I'm grateful for geneology (I know that is strange for me to say, but some recent discovers are coming to light, which are forcing me to do geneology & slowly but surely, I'm learning to like it). I love that we are tought about food storage. Whether your Mormon, Jewish, Catholic, storing food is just smart. Times are getting rough & I know they will only get rougher. I'm grateful for the knowledge I have that Christ will come again.

4 of my Favorite People

2008-07-03T06:57:00.006-07:00

These 4 are some of my favorite people. They are the most loving and funniest kids I am blessed to have in my life. Of course Rusty & Kennedy are my most favorite for very obvious reasons, THEY'RE MINE!!! YEAH!!! Somebody up in Heaven must think I'm something special to have blessed my life with these two amazing kids. As far as the other 2, Bailey & Ashley, I'm still blessed and they might as well be mine. I love them just as much. We had a mini party last night w/fun dinner, games, movies & goofy pictures. I think that was everyones favorite part. We watch Beetljuice, which by the way is 20 years old. WOW!!! Don't I feel old now. You can bet I didn't tell that to the kids. The kids loved it. John & Camie (Bailey & Ashley's parents) were able to go out on a date, which as we all know with kids, it's something of a novelty to go out w/out the kids. Orville & I were actually able to do that on Tuesday & we went to go see a movie. It was strange but nice not having the kids. Anyway, I had to post and show off some of my favorite people. The Lord sure has saved the best for last. This next generation is so amazing & so strong.

Happy 4th of July!!!!

2008-07-02T13:22:00.006-07:00

I AM PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN!!!!

I am grateful to live in a free land that I can come and go as I please, worship who I want when and where I want, basically do want I want when I want. I come from a long line of servie men and women.

Thank you to all those who fought on my behalf to live in a free country.

Stampin UP Party

2008-07-01T16:18:00.001-07:00

It's here!!!!! The long awaited new Stampin UP catalog is Really here!!!Come join us as we drool over all the new cute stuff. Whether you are a card maker, a scrap-booker, paper crafter or all of the above I guarantee there will be something for everybody. We will be making a card and 1 12x12 layout using some Stampin UP patterned paper.

What about Holiday cards, birthday cards, invitations, etc... The holidays are right around the corner. Get a start on making those adorable cards and great homemade gifts with pictures of the family. For those of you going on the annual Scrapbook cruise, do you know what you are working on yet? It is a good idea to start thinking about that, as the cruise is about 1 month away. If you have a game plan you will be able to get a lot more done. A good idea is to have a color scheme and make that part of your plan. That will help you to buy matching accessories for your layouts.

Stampin UP is not just for stamps. Although they have a ton to choose from, they are great for a ton of other embellishments as well. They have chipboard, boxes, ribbon, buttons, eyelets, glitter, inks, cardstock 81/2 x11 and 12x12, markers, scrapbook layout kits, adhesives, cutting tools, punches, etc... The list goes on and on. I almost forgot, all the cardstock, markers, & inks all match. Oh and what about ordering a catalog? It' full of ideas and techniques. Don't forget about those stamp sets that are being discontinued. They are only available until the 1st part of August.Remember, to bring a friend or two or three.

Join in the fun!Come join us as we have yummy and refreshing desserts.

They party is Thursday July 24 @ 7pm at my house.

Happy July

2008-07-01T13:43:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally jumped in on the blogging circuit. YEAH ME!!! Well, I wasn't to sure about it until I talked w/Rachael during the kids swim lessons this morning. She explained that part of why she blogged was for journaling. She was surprised as a scrapbooker that I didn't. I go visit blogs, but I did not have one myself. So now we do. We'll see how it goes and what kind of groove I get into. I will post family updates, scrapbook layouts and cards, etc... I'm actually quite excited to get this going. I will type soon. Have a great day.