December

December is a rush around, shop around, clean around, wonderful time of year. We put away November decorations the day after Thanksgiving, and prepared for Christmas decor. It takes about three days to get everything put up. This year we are having our two youngest grandsons come from Maryland, so we decorated a little differently that usual--kid proof. Because our daughter and her husband and sons are coming, I wanted to get all of my preparations done as soon as possible. I mailed out Christmas cards, made and delivered neighbor gifts, and got most of the shopping done. I have a lot of the wrapping done, but that will be ongoing. We have also prepared our home for the long-awaited guests. We also have two other grandchildren staying until the weekend. We have completed our Home teaching and Visiting teaching so that helps. I am so excited for this Christmas and having all of the family together once again.

Day 19

I am so thankful for the many things I can do to fill my time--hobbies. I love to read and I have friends that share wonderful books with me. I love the scriptures and inspiring books. I love to knit, write, play games, camp, scrapbook, and sew and quilt. I enjoy football, cooking, and travelling. I love to watch TV, and movies. I enjoy some shopping, but I'm not a shop-a-holic. I love music. I don't play or sing anymore, but I love listening. I am so thankful that I have many opportunities to learn new things and explore my talents. I am blessed.

Eighteenth Day

I am so thankful for family. We have a wonderful extended family! We get together with hubby's brothers and spouses every month--for over forty years. We enjoy camping with them every year. We have delightful Christmas parties for the kids and then one for the adults. It is so special to have family that you can really count as friends. My brother and his family don't get together as often, but we keep touch regularly on the phone. We can really enjoy time with each other. Our children are so loving and patient with me. They truly enjoy gathering and playing games, and visiting. They help one another and support each other whenever needed. I am so thankful for the good citizens and caring people they have become. I am so blessed!

Day 17

I am slow but, I am so thankful for the comforts of life. Beds, cars, washing machines, telephones, TV, furnaces, air conditioning, warm clothes, showers, stoves, and refrigerators are so often taken for granted. I am thankful that I have limitless choices when I go to the store. I can watch movies, read, sew, play games, and travel in a free country. I can instantly converse with friends and family with phones, text, and internet. I enjoy a warm, comfortable bed at night. I can worship God in my own way. I am so blessed!

Day 16...

I am so thankful for the strength of the gospel in my life. I feel peace, reassurance, love, patience, and such a great appreciation for my Savior. I know I've expressed some of my feelings earlier this month, but I marvel at the blessings of the gospel. It is certainly worth another day's post! I am so thankful for prayer, the spirit of the Holy Ghost, scriptures, and the love I feel from my Heavenly Father. My soul overflows with the testimony that these things are true. It is worth expressing my gratitude for the gospel every day of my life.

The fifteenth Day of gratitude

Today I am thankful for living in a place that has four seasons. My favorite seasons are Spring and Fall. Spring gives us hope after a long,cold winter. The green returns and we see patches of color with the flowers. I even enjoy most of the spring rains. Fall gives us a little cooler weather and gorgeous leaves. I love to walk on crunchy leaves, just like the children. Summer is a time to be active, warm, and on the go. I love not having to wear coats and jackets. I love doing things that we don't do the rest of the year. Camping, picnics, swimming, and traveling give the summer a spark of joy. Winter is my least favorite because I don't like to be cold. And I HATE driving on icy roads! The good things about winter are the first good snow that laces the tree branches and gives a clean white look to the world. I love hot chocolate, children playing in the snow (But not ME), a warm crackling fire, Christmas, family gatherings, and snowmen. Yay for four seasons!

The Fourteenth Day

I am so thankful for precious grandchildren! We love to hear from them on the phone or at our home. They are always so excited to see each other too! We love taking them camping, having sleepovers, playing games, singing songs, watching funny shows, and sometimes making cookies or pizza. They range in age from fourteen to three. That gives us quite a variety of interests. I am excited because our two youngest ( ages 3 and 5) are coming for the holidays. It has been over two years since we have seen them. It will be so fun to have all of them together--PICTURE TIME! We are so thankful for these special children in our family!

DAY 13

I am so thankful for our extended families. Our brothers and their families are such a joy to us. It is such a blessing to have a good relationship with extended family. We get together with hubby's brothers every month--and have done so for almost forty years. It is so special to know that you have friends that are always there for you--and family too! We love to meet for dinner, go camping, have picnics, Christmas parties, and just a good visit. I always look forward to seeing them. That is a special blessing.

The twelfth day of Gratitude...

Today I am thankful for medical advances that can help us live healthy lives. I have not felt well for over a week. Today I finally went to see the doctor. I have bronchitis, and I'm now on antibiotics. I already see an improvement. Many dear friends and family are facing medical challenges. I can see how much we need increased medical advances to help them. I'm thankful for the doctors, nurses, and pharmacists who strive to help us be the healthiest we can be. We are so fortunate to live in a day when these illnesses can be treated. I pray that the future will hold even more advances.

11-11-11

This is an historic day! I join with millions, who today have expressed appreciation for all those who have served to protect our freedom. Through all of our American history we have seen those who show the passion of freedom in their choices. We need to be reminded of this more than once a year. We have many public servants who daily serve us. We have a military that protects our nation. We have good citizens who vote and do community service. We have some political figures who actually try to follow the Constitution. I am so thankful to live in this country!

On the Tenth Day...

I am thankful for WATER. Yep! Plain old water. We love to watch rivers, streams, lakes, the ocean, waterfalls and fountains. We play in water--swimming pools, boating, sliding, water skiing, fishing, cruising and splashing. We stay healthy with water, drink it, bathe, cook, and sanitize. We could not live without it! I am so thankful for this blessing. I am also thankful for the opportunity to be baptized in water so that I can be forgiven for my sins and weaknesses. I am thankful that I am able to follow the living water..Jesus Christ.

Day Nine

I'm slow catching up! Here goes! Today I am thankful for our neighbors. We have lived here for 37 years now, and have never regretted moving here. The people here are loving, respectful, helpful, and friendly. We can always get help when we need it. Everyone takes good care of their homes and its a beautiful place to live. I am so thankful for the love and support we receive. It is so nice to be in a place where we are truly comfortable. That is a special blessing!

The Eighth Day

Today I give thanks for the FUN things in life. It always helps to face your day with some fun to make life better. The things I think make life fun are: Comics, cute emails, the smile of a loved one, funny movies, good books, the whirr of the sewing machine, my husband's teasing (don't tell him!), old tv sitcoms, a card in the mail, surprising someone else, accomplishing something good, and time with a friend. This is the frosting on the cake of life.

Day 7...

I have to express my thankfulness for a warm home, good transportation, lovely furnishings, kitchen appliances, and all the comforts we enjoy in this country. I have my first cold of the season, and it is so nice to rest and enjoy TV, movies, and a cozy lounger. I have been reading letters from missionaries in South America and Africa. The lifestyles there are so poor. I know I am spoiled! Hopefully, I use my blessings to help others and share my abundance. I know I could improve, so that is one of my new goals.

Blessings--Sixth Day

Today I must express thankfulness for public servants who go to the aid of those in need. I am thankful for police, firemen, search and rescue teams, ambulance drivers, doctors and nurses, and many others who serve the community each day. Our son was in need of search and rescue when he was duck hunting yesterday. I don't know the whole story yet, but I know many came to their rescue. I am so thankful that the three men were alive and safe. I know that Heavenly Father had a hand in their rescue. Thank You!

The Fifth Day of Gratitude

Today I am thankful for dear friends. I appreciate being able to feel of their love for me. We can talk about anything and respect each other's opinions. We can laugh and giggle and feel like kids again. We can wrap our arms around each other when there is sorrow or disappointment. We are friends! What more could I ask for!

The Fourth Day of Thanksgiving

I am so thankful for my precious, special grandchildren. I love their laughs, smiles, giggles, and hugs. I am so pleased when we can see them grow and flourish as they grow up. They are my JOY! They do well in school, they develop talents, and they cheer me up just to look at their pictures. I am so blessed to be a Grandma! This is the best!

Third Day of Thanksgiving

Today I am thankful for our special family. Our children are good citizens, thoughtful people, and respected people. They are so willing to help, and play games, and support one another. They are my joy! I appreciate their patience with me, their love, and companionship. They strive to do their best and they make me proud of their accomplishments. I couldn't ask for better children--and that includes their sweet companions who also put up with me. My daughter-in-laws are also my children. My son-in-laws are my sons too. That is such a blessing to me. I am so thankful I can say we have a happy family!

Day Two of Thankfulness

Today I must express my love and appreciation to my special husband. He is so patient and thoughtful. He has been buying me bouquets of flowers every few weeks, so I always have beautiful flowers to smell and enjoy. He works so hard to take care of all my needs. And I also know he does that for countless others. He amazes me with his ability to see the needs of those around him. I am so thankful for his willingness to go the extra mile for me and our family. I am so thankful that we ended up together for eternity!

A month of Thanksgiving

I have noticed many on Facebook listing blessings each day of the month. I have chosen to list my blessings here. For the first day I must express my thankfulness for the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the Atonement. That is my source of strength and hope. I am so thankful that there is a way I can erase my mistakes and move forward. I don't know what I would do without this knowledge in my life. I love to read the scriptures. I love to hear testimonies that strengthen mine. I am so thankful for the plan of salvation and the opportunity to one day live with my Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ.

Delightful Disneyland

Our son and his wife are devoted to Disney. They even have a season pass to Disneyland. They invited us to join them on a five day trip, and it was a blast! We traveled all day Saturday and got to our motel in the early evening. We went to dinner and then walked to Downtown Disney for some shopping. Love the atmosphere! We went back and got settled in our room. We even played a couple rounds of Pinochle. We could hear the fireworks starting and went out on the balcony. Beautiful! We could see them perfectly. Sunday hubby and I went to Church with some long-time friends. They also invited us for dinner. We had a great visit. Later we met the kids at Disneyland and enjoyed some rides. Our daughter-in-law lost her cell phone on Thunder Mountain Railroad. It took a while, but they were able to find it. Got in lots of walking! Monday we rode just about every ride in the park. It was a fun day. We went to California Adventure too. We love the river run and Soarin' over California. We also loved the Toy Story ride. We had planned on going to the World of Color show that night, but it was cold and we just went back to the motel. The kids went to a special parade and got their pictures with all the Disney characters after the parade. On Tuesday we caught our favorite rides again. We also found a magnificent Pumpkin display--Disney characters carved onto huge pumpkins. It was amazing! We also had a special ride on Lilly Belle! That is a train car named after Walt Disney's wife. You have to make reservations ahead of time. It only holds fifteen people. It is decorated in old Victorian furniture. Stained glass windows at the top, old tables with marble tops, brass lamps, red velvet couches and chairs make it an elegant place to ride. You also get tour guide that gives all kinds of information about the trains and Disney. It was a delightful ride. The kids had tickets to Mickey's Halloween Party, so in late afternoon they went back to get in their costumes. They were pirates and had AMAZING costumes! We took pictures and then we left for California Adventure--Disneyland closed to the public at 6 pm for the Halloween party. We went on a few rides and then went out to dinner. We were back at the motel by 7:30 pm. On Wednesday the kids went to Disneyland for souvenir shopping. We left at 12:30 pm and headed home. It was a delightful break and we truly enjoyed it. Yay! Disneyland!

October Already???

This year has been going SO fast! We had lovely weather in the 70's and 80's for a few weeks. Then yesterday--POW--rain, snow, wind. The skies are gray and cloudy, and I'm not ready for winter yet. However, October also brings some wonderful things. We have celebrated the birthdays of two sons and two grandchildren already this month. That first week of October is busy with celebrations. I love the autumn leaves. We don't have any in the valley yet, but I can tell the mountains do. I hope we can get a chance to take a drive and enjoy the colors of Fall. I also made my first pot of chili for the season. Perfect for cool autumn days! I am also into making soups and muffins. That's one of my favorite meals. I'm sewing and getting some of my "spring cleaning" done. I have my living room decorated for the season, and hubby hung my jack-o-lantern lights in the front window. Football games are back. We are going to take a short vacation this month--Disneyland! I love the Haunted House all done in "The Nightmare Before Christmas" mode. Later this month we have the Scarecrow Festival, which is a fundraiser for the Boys Ranch. I also enjoy Halloween parades and trick or treating. Come on October--Bring it on!

Blessings

Before this month is over, I need to stop and reflect on my many blessings. I have enjoyed luncheons with friends, grandchildren sleeping over, new friends in our new Stake, wonderful religion class that buoys me up for the week, Temple sessions, time with extended family, time with my daughters and daughters-in-law, Visiting Teaching with my companion and having mine come here, doctors appointments, BBQ, and time with my dear hubby. My life is busy, but it is full with the Lord's richest blessings. I'm so thankful for my hubby, my children and their families, my special friends, and my friends in the Gospel. The Lord has blessed and protected us through long trips, hurricanes and earthquakes, illness, and through many of life's challenges. Thank you for blessings beyond our belief. Happy September!

43 Years

Forty-three years ago my life changed forever! It is hard to believe we have been married that long! On our wedding day we had NO clue what the future would hold. We have cried, laughed, worked hard, played hard, failed, and succeeded. It has been quite a ride so far. BUT one thing is certain--I made the right choice! We have learned so much--patience, forgiveness, service, joy, pain, perseverance, and a true understanding of togetherness. I love the way my special hubby is always thinking of others. He is so thoughtful, talented, loving, and FUN-loving. We are truly blessed. Now to continue on our special journey for the next 43 years--and onward forever!

Summer's almost Over :(

August already! This summer has been so busy--and enjoyable. We went to Girls' Camp and cooked for the Stake Leaders. We did a Welcome dinner for 170 people with Dutch Oven BBQ chicken, salad, rolls, Ants on a Log (celery filled with peanut butter and topped with raisins) watermelon, and for dessert pudding with crushed Oreos for dirt and a gummy worm on top. It was a cute and delicious Picnic! The sky was filling with dark clouds and we could hear thunder. We decided to move the serving tables to the bowery. We were glad we did, because there was thunder, lightning, hail, and tons of rain! It was an exciting adventure! We had a great little cookhouse, and the Stake Leaders and girls were fun and helpful. The testimony meeting was awesome! What a strong spirit! Yeah! Girls' Camp!
We spent the following week at the Mills Family Reunion. It was delightful to visit with the extended family. We had a lot of rain the first few days, and I was so thankful for our motorhome. The grandkids were fun and we enjoyed playing games together. The only thing that I missed was having our own camp area. We parked in the group area on the blacktop. It wasn't quite the same as having dirt and weeds underfoot. Oh, well! It was a great week. For the Friday night dinner we had 98 in attendance. At breakfast the next morning we had 57 attending. Our family had everyone come at some point during the week. We also enjoyed coming home and staying put for a little while. It will take days to clean and unpack, but it was worth it!

July

Wow!! July is almost half over! We had fun taking six grandchildren to the Spruces for a few days. They got along so well and helped when we asked them to. The only problem is they are growing too tall for some of our motor home beds. We enjoyed the rain too. We roasted hotdogs over the fire and made s'mores. We played games together. We saw a moose! It was a great campout!!
We went to our Stake Youth Conference at Timberlane. I even slept in a tent! We are glad we didn't try to take the motor home up there because a logging company uses the road and it is not paved. Wild!! We met new people and made new friends. The cooking was a lot of work, but was great fun. We now have a better idea of what we need to do with Girls' Camp in two weeks. We also feel like we are a part of the South Stake now. The Youth seemed to do well at mixing in together.
Our second week at West Ridge 1st Branch was a good one. I led the music and only made a couple of mistakes. The pianist said I was easy to follow and she liked my tempo. I now have to plan the music for August. Hubby is finding some challenges with all the rules and regulations, but said his lesson went well. We also attended an Eagle Court for two of the boys who earned their Eagle. It was very nice!
Today we are trying to get back in a routine--if that's possible. My husband came up with an idea to organize our freezer and it looks great! Now I won't have food bags falling out when I open the door. I also need to get busy in the sewing room. It still has quite a bit of organizing to do, and I need to get my sewing club blocks made before I go to camp and our Spruces reunion. It looks like a BUSY summer.

Onward, Ever onward....

I am enjoying my BIG project--organizing my sewing room/guest room. I have found that as I move forward with really cleaning my home, that I have gained inspiration in unusual ways. My bedroom has stayed clean for two weeks--a new record! I love being able to put everything in its place. Our passports arrived this week and I already had a place to put them. The sewing room presents new challenges. It hit me that sorting material into colors, projects, and kind of material would help me get a handle on my organization. I found 2-Qt. Ziploc bags at Walmart and began to sort my material. I'm not sure how I'm going to store all my beautiful bags of material yet, but I love being able to see the colors. I'm sure I will gain inspiration to solve my next step in organizing. Wahoo!!!
We are also facing new changes in our life as we have been called to serve in the West Ridge Academy Branch. Hubby will be the Scoutmaster/Deacon's Advisor and I will be the Chorister. We will attend from 10 am to noon. They don't have Sunday School. This is better known as the Utah Boys Ranch. It will be interesting to find out how this all works out. This week we are meeting with the Youth Conference committee to find out what our cooking responsibilities are. That is in less than ten days, so I'm glad we are finally getting oriented. We are also taking most of our grandchildren camping next weekend. Summer here we come!!!

It is so much FUN to....

It is so much FUN to finish the Spring cleaning in my second room--my bedroom. I love the new bookcase and baskets full of my Stuff. I love being able to find what I need! I love the fact that I can now start on my sewing room/guest room. It is going to take some creative thinking--but I can do it! It is so much fun to sleep clear through the night and wake up refreshed. It is so much fun to walk a mile! I haven't been doing my walking for quite a while. I know I had better get going so I'm ready for our summer activities. It is so much fun to hear my grandson chattering on the phone. I even understood a few words! It was also fun to visit with my daughter for a little bit! It is so much fun to have lunch out with a friend. I met one of my retired teacher friends for lunch and we talked up a storm. She is facing many challenges with her health. Being single she doesn't get as many opportunities to talk. It is so much fun to be in a Book Store! I can easily get lost there! I was able to find books for my grandsons birthdays next month. I also pampered myself with a book. It is so fun to cook healthy meals! I made salmon, steamed spinach, and a vegetable quinoa dish for dinner. We both loved it! I love having just a little free time. Tonight my sweetie is working a a float for the Pioneer Day Parade next month. So I love sitting here and recording all of the things I have enjoyed today. I hope you have a day to love too.

It's official!!!

We are going to Girls' Camp in the end of July. We have been asked to be the cooks for the Stake leaders. At first we thought we might take our motorhome, but gas prices may nix that. However, we are looking forward to meeting more of our new Stake people. The Stake Camp Director lives next door to us, so we will be able to get more ideas an information easily. I just hope our health will be at its peak! We don't have any responsibilities besides the meals, so we hope to have some kick-back and relax time. Our big challenge will be getting us ready for our family reunion the following week. Yay!! Summer!!!

A Beautiful Spring Day

I just have to let you know that I love Spring. This year has had record-breaking rain and I need to show gratitude for Spring. I love the GREEN, the bright flowers, the chirping birds, and the blue skies--occasionally. Today hubby and I went out for breakfast. Then we took a ride up to our favorite campground. The roads were plowed, but its going to be a few more weeks before they can open the campground. SNOW! Four feet in many areas. SNOW!! On the tables! SNOW!!! Couldn't even get up to our favorite spot. However, I still love Spring!

Serendipity

Life is full of changes, surprises, and expectations. I have been surprised by fun little playtimes with grandchildren. I have enjoyed lunch with dear friends--and that met my expectations! We enjoyed a stormy picnic with some grandkids. We enjoyed meeting good friends at a wedding. We spent time with extended family.
I watched Oprah and laughed and cried. She had the story of a young woman whose mother had died of cancer. When the mom realized she wouldn't be there for some of her daughter's special days, she began making videos for her daughter. She had videos of advice, congratulations, milestones, and of everlasting love. That show gave me a new outlook on my own life. I realized that I need to live life to the fullest. I need to enjoy the changes, surprises, and make new expectations. What can I contribute to others today? How can I live life to the fullest today? What could I do differently? I need to enjoy the little moments of serendipity that add so much to our lives. Life is good!!!

April Showers

The month of April had only 7 days when it didn't rain or snow. Now May is keeping up that tradition. Rain, rain, rain.....And I heard that Alta got 2 feet of snow. That has made me a little grumpy---BUT I decided that I could count my blessings! I love the beautiful spring flowers with their brilliant colors. I love the green lawns. I love the green trees. I have been doing some spring cleaning and have finished the Living Room. I have been working on our bedroom and I have found a couple of "lost" items. Wahoo!! I still have the hardest part of the room to clean, but I will succeed! I'm planning on doing the sewing room next. I have also learned that having Hubby home more brings adventures. He loves to just take off. We've gone looking at cabinets, countertops, and various needs at Walmart. We also took a trip to Logan Canyon to visit friends. We also went to dinner with his brothers and spouses. We went to lunch with his brother. We went to Chuck-O-Rama for a dinner, and Subway for lunch. I also took a break to eat at Olive Garden with lady friends. I have also been doing my share of cooking. We are eager to get the motorhome out on the road, but that looks like it will be delayed. There is still 10 feet of snow at our favorite campground. I hope I find warm spring days soon!

Change

I always take stock at the first of the month to see how I'm coming on my resolutions. I discovered that a friend of mine listed a blog-site on her journey to clean her home. It seems I am always struggling to clean my home so I've been reading her blog entries from the past year. One of the basic parts of the plan is to work on a project for 20 minutes each day until you finish it.
So this week I have begun to clean the Living Room. I have cleaned out unwanted books from all the bookcases and sent them to DI. I have cleaned out the dead parts of the potted plants. I changed the decor from Easter to spring. Tomorrow I will clean the curio cabinet. I really enjoy working on projects because I know I only have to do it for about 20 minutes. And if I choose to, I can work on it longer.
We are also seeing changes in our Church callings. We are being released from the Young Single Adult Ward bishopric. Eight new Stakes for Singles only are being formed in the Salt Lake valley. We go the the Conference Center tonight for information on the changes. On Sunday we meet with our new Stake and we will be released. I have truly enjoyed the past two and a half years that we have served with these delightful young people. It will be different to go back to our home ward. However, that is facing changes too. On May 15th we attend a special Stake Conference to receive information on new boundaries for that Stake. I guess it proves that there is always going to be change. I have decided to enjoy the changes that come! Bring it on!!!

Miracles Abound

On April 5 I discovered a lump in my breast. I tried to get a doctor's appointment because I needed an order for a diagnostic mammogram. They said the doctor couldn't see me until July 21, so they would call me when they found another doctor that could take me. I called again the next day and they said there was still no opening. The next morning I received a call saying I could come in at 10 am. The doctor was the one I had really wanted. She did a new patient survey and answered all of my questions. I am so delighted! She will be a great doctor for me. That was a miracle! Before I left she had my appointment for my mammogram set up. When I left her office I felt such a sense of peace. That was wonderful because I could really enjoy my weekend. We had four grandchildren for the weekend and had a ball!
Yesterday I had my tests--a diagnostic mammogram and an ultrasound. They were so kind and explained everything. They also had the diagnosis before I left which is wonderful too. No waiting around for a week to get results. I had non-cancerous fatty tissue and they said it would not require any surgery at this time. I have the same tissue in my arm. My Mom had a number of these through the years too. I count my blessings!!! I stand all amazed at the love Jesus offers me!!!

More Miracles

I sometimes marvel when I look back and recognize the little miracles in my life. General Conference is always inspiring and I agreed with Elder Holland when he said that we would each hear the things we happened to need during the many talks given. We were also blessed with our income taxes this year. For the past five years we have had to pay out. This year we actually got a few dollars refund! (hope the figures are correct). We also were blessed by family as we attended our little granddaughter's Grandparents day at kindergarten. We had family visits during the weekend that we delightful. It was a weekend of refreshing ideas, relaxing, and renewing hopes. Now its onward to enjoy the month of April--snow and all!

March Madness

Basketball isn't the only thing with "madness". My schedule really keeps me going right now--which is good. I have quite a few projects I'm working on too. We have spent the past ten days we have finished Visiting Teaching, Had hubby's company party, been to lunch with dear friends, enjoyed St. Patrick's day, been to my podiatrist, saw the play Music Man (twice) attended Ward Council training, had Ward Conference, enjoyed our adult religion class, had dinner with the Mills in Payson, Hosted our nephew and a friend for breakfast, enjoyed our grandson's Pinewood Derby, and spent time sewing on a quilt, and reorganizing my recipe file. I'm also enjoying the signs of spring each day. Onward!

Inspiration

Our Stake Relief Society had a wonderful "Time Out" Saturday. The speakers were so inspiring! You definitely needed a tissue at hand. The spirit was so strong and we were entertained and blessed by the delightful stories they told. I truly felt the sisterhood being shared in the chapel. We also had a wonderful luncheon and the opportunity to visit and enjoy one another. I had the chance to visit with my 12th Ward friends too. I also realized how many blessings I have and the great love of our Savior in my life. I was certainly filled and strengthened for the coming week. The next blessing was the Sabbath day, and the opportunity to partake of the sacrament. I think I'm ready to face the coming week!

Trials

I am amazed at the many trials people are faced with. I certainly am blessed at this point of my life. I know two young women battling breast cancer. Today I found out that the wife of one of my husband's Eagle Scouts is facing possible deafness and they don't have a clue why. She is having an MRI this week. I am devastated to hear of the earthquakes, tsunamis. and other natural disasters that so many people are facing right now. I read of so many sad stories in the news and I am made even more aware of my own blessings. At this time my trials are not as bad as many others. I know that it can change in the blink of an eye, so I realize that I must strengthen myself spiritually so that I can fulfill the Lord's plan for me. I know that I am in the Lord's hands and I need to increase my faith to meet my coming challenges. I pray for blessings upon those who really need them right now.

Coincidences????

Monday morning my husband was taking his chess set out of my sewing room and cleaned it. When I got home from my religion class that afternoon, his chess set was sitting on top of my genealogy file cabinet. I had mentioned that one day I would like it upstairs. There it is!!! Tuesday I located my journal, which I haven't seen since about Christmas time. That afternoon I happened to glance at the calendar and realized that I had an appointment with my optometrist in half an hour. I made it in time! It was a good report too. Today I was sewing busily when I remembered I had a cake in the oven. When I got to the oven there were 28 seconds left. Nice cake!!! While I was reading the scriptures I happened to read one verse that jumped out at me. I know I have read it a dozen or more times, but today it was exactly what I needed. Are these all coincidences? I doubt it.......

A New Week

Things have certainly been moving along--It's already March. I've had fun sewing, cleaning, scripture reading, making a Pinewood Derby car, cooking, playing games with hubby, watching movies, and riding around the valley with hubby. Life is good! We also got to do a Skype session with our daughter and grandsons. They are growing so much! They laughed, sang, danced, and read words their Mom would type on the screen. They are reading quite a few words for two years old and four years old. We have a busy week in store with family and church activities. That makes life worthwhile! I hope you enjoy your week!

What a fun way to exercise!

I slept in a little today, but it has been a productive, fun day. Today I set up the ironing board in the family room and used our dining table as a cutting surface. With all the trips to the sewing room to sew kept me going. I did both squares for the quilting club and then cut out a quilt. It uses twelve light colors and twelve dark. By the time I cut out the first group I was tired. Thankfully after a lunch break, I finished cutting the quilt out. The nice part is the sewing should hopefully go more smoothly. When I sewed the squares, I remembered why we call our Quilting group "Pic N' Sew". It feels SO good to be sewing again! And I got my exercise in besides!

The Birthdays

On Friday evening we had a family Birthday party. Our daughter and her son celebrate birthdays this week, and it was fun to get together and enjoy one another. Our grandson turns 14 and has never "celebrated" his birthday so it was fun to share it with him. He told grandpa that he didn't want to do the candles and Birthday song, so we did it low key. He enjoyed the presents and time with his cousins. I had made a homemade devil's food cake that was heavenly. I had made two cakes because the recipe said "serves 12". We had 17 people coming. However, we had cake leftover from the first cake. We sent that with our grandson. Tonight we are having the rest of the cake after a pancake dinner. I hope they finish it off, because I eat too much of it and that is not good for my blood sugar levels. All in all it was a great party! My daughter raved about it and thanked us for having it. We have a terrific family!

It's All in My Head....

I keep thinking that I need to write on my blog--I think of what to say about each day. But it doesn't get on paper (or computer). So today I'm going to empty the blog portion of my brain so that I don't have to try to remember it any longer. I love my adult education class! It gives me a new perspective on the love of our Heavenly Father and his Son, Jesus Christ. It is hard to believe how many blessings I have! There are so many things that I need to learn and do.
I am so blessed to have such special friends. I was able to have lunch at Zupa's with two dear ladies that always lift me up. Great day! On Friday my sweet hubby took me out for dinner. Afterwards I talked him into taking me to Seagull Book to get one of the new books in one of my favorite mystery series. The book was delightful and I'm ready to pass it onward to share. It has recipes in it and I made one for lunch today! Another fun event was our Ward FHE activity. We played a "Where's Waldo" game where we had to find each member of the Bishopric at the mall. They had on mustaches and wigs, and hats. It was a lot of fun! My hubby even picked up some of the grandkids and got them in on it. People weren't looking for someone with a bunch of kids.
We are planning a fun family Birthday party for next weekend for our daughter and oldest grandson. We are certainly blessed with a wonderful family!
For now I can move one and keep the coming week in my head until the next edition....

Things I'm Happy About...Part Two

Today I'm happy that I got a great night's sleep, I've been to the Temple this week, I'm enjoying the scriptures, we had lots of pie for Ward social, there are leftovers of pie (yummm), hubby enjoyed the liver and onions I made for HIM, I have a clean sewing table, I had fun shopping for material, and I bought freezer paper for quilt patterns. I had my hair done, had fun making artistic valentines, I treated myself to Chinese food for lunch, and enjoy getting the newspaper every day again instead of just on weekends. I am enjoying reading some new books, and got an easy assignment for Sunday's Break the Fast. My face plant injuries are almost healed, and I LOVED hearing my little grandsons sing to me, and the sun is shining! That brings a BIG smile!!!

Things I'm happy about...

I slept eight hours last night, I exercised, I enjoyed my religion class :), I had fun with some of my family, I had a good visit with friends, played games with hubby, watched a movie, got my Monday chores done, and cleaned off my sewing table, (now maybe I'll get back into sewing!) I also listened to an uplifting radio program, read a book from my childhood, and laughed with joy because I didn't have to go out into the snow! To be continued.....

Things I'd like to forget.....

Things I'd like to forget right now are no sleep nights, draggy mornings because I don't sleep, talking myself out of doing things I should do, watching TV instead of doing things with hubby, putting off scripture reading, deciding I'm too tired to go to CES Class ("But that's your favorite part of the week", says hubby), not getting bills paid, not going to FHE because I'm too tired, not exercising because I'm too tired....Did I say I'm tired? OK! This week I'm going to class, getting bills paid, EXERCISING, and getting back into life! Oh, by the way I am going to watch where I'm walking so I DO NOT do any more face-plants on the cement! That is something I will remember!

The Days Just Whiz By....

I actually had to get the calendar to see what I needed to write about. So much for trying to write daily.... I have enjoyed lunch at Olive Garden with my dear friends, getting my hair done (with my good friends), had my hearing aids serviced, and had a lovely dinner with the Stake leaders. I attended a wedding luncheon and reception, loved seeing all of our children help move my daughter, worried about my daughter in Maryland and hope she's enjoying a much needed vacation, attended CES Adult Education class, attended the Temple, helped my daughter-in-law because she broke her arm trying to help my daughter move, and tried to get the house cleaned and ready for our Second Annual Goldfish Races with our Ward FHE. I am also looking forward to our Stake Temple day Friday and a Relief Society dinner on Saturday. I always enjoy Sunday meetings and look forward to our CES class Monday. We are having hubby's brothers and wives for dinner Monday for our monthly get-together. I also thoroughly enjoyed the biography of President Thomas S. Monson. I can see that I need to lengthen my stride and make some improvements. February is just around the corner. Hang in there!!!

Enjoy the ride!

We are enjoying the day off school with grandchildren. They love playing, watching cartoons, eating waffles with ice cream, and laughing. We have lots of leftover lasagna available for dinner tonight. I played "Let's Make a Deal" with the kids--and "Won" a million dollars! Hubby is working today, but should have a slightly shorter day. He is also selling Girl Scout Cookies if anyone wants any! He always helps girls we know by selling to his customers. His customers seem to be eager to buy from him--and have done so for over 25 years. He started when one of our daughters was a Girl Scout. As for me I am enjoying the sound of laughter, yelling, and love. Tomorrow will be too quiet!

Catch my breath day

Friday flew by! I made lasagna for Sunday dinner, cleaned house, spent the afternoon riding around with hubby, and prepared for our Ward Talent show. The Bishopric did a cute number wearing wigs (mops) and togas. We had piano, singing, stand up comedy, one who could twist their body into a pretzel, accordion number, and Y-C-M-A singers. It was a delightful evening.
Saturday we were up early to attend the Jordan River Temple. Wonderful session!
Then we went to pick up our grandson for the weekend. We got lunch, ran errands, and Bret helped me bake cookies. Bret went to stay with his cousins overnight. Hubby and I went to a wedding reception and then did some grocery shopping. Then hubby had to get the programs ready for church.
So today is the day I catch my breath. I set the tables for dinner, straightened up the house, and read the scriptures. We had a lovely Sacrament meeting and Sunday School and Relief Society. Dinner tonight with my son's family. Tonight the grandkids sleepover. Then I'm ready for a new week. Bring it on!!!

Little Adventures

Hair day! One of the best days of the week--get my hair done and VISIT with dear friends. I also got some equipment to do senior chair exercises, floss, and grocery shopping done for the weekend. It feels good to be a little prepared. I also had the opportunity of spending time with a little granddaughter. She challenged me to Mario Kart on the Wii. Great fun! She won 3 races and I won two. We also played Katie Checkers. If you've never played this version you are really missing something. Of course, she won every game. I'm flattered that she wants to have play dates with her old grandma, but I'll enjoy it while I can. Teenage years will probably change that. Tonight I'm off for our FHE adventure. I don't know what we are doing, but I know that it will be fun. Last night we had over 25 of the Ward come for pie and ice cream. They laughed, visited, and laughed some more. Great evening!

New perspective

I just finished the biography of President Hinckley and I am just starting the biography of President Thomas Monson. I realized that these BUSY men kept journals through the years. If the President of the Church can take time to record daily feelings and events, I should be able to also. So that gives me a little more incentive to put down my own thoughts.
Yesterday I was slow moving. I guess my busy Monday needed a quieter day to follow. I did get a record of 2009 recorded on my files. Today I did 2010. I do think those are important items. But one of the best parts of yesterday was a "date" with one of my sons. He called and invited me out to dinner. Serendipity! My husband was working at the concession stands at the U of U, so the two of us took off. It was so delightful to catch up on news and strengthen our friendship. It is not often when you get one-on-one with your adult children. I am so thankful for the Family. This is one of the most rewarding relationships we have in this life. By the way--Thanks to the sweet princess who creates my background for my blog each month! The blessings of family are eternal!!!

Resolutions

I have been enjoying reading the biography of President Gordon B. Hinckley. I was pleased to receive encouragement from Sister Hinckley's comment about resolutions. She said that she had made a resolution to read one chapter of scripture every day. She reported that she was only three days behind. I was so glad that I'm not the only one who sometimes doesn't keep up on resolutions. I know that I can continue trying. There is no such thing as a broken resolution--only the failure to keep trying when we don't get it right the first time. So I'm going to get back on my blog and keep trying to do my best. Keep smiling!!!

January....

I have really been a slacker the past few days. I haven't felt well, which is not a good excuse. I went to Urgent Care and got antibiotics for a sinus infection. I'm doing a little better finally. I think I'm ready to get back in more of a routine. We had a very quiet New Year's Eve--munched on goodies and watched a movie. We were in bed before ten. New Year's Day was more of the same. I enjoyed the quiet and started planning my first week of the New Year. I'm keeping my same resolutions--just trying to add to them for the coming year. I actually did pretty well on last year's, but there is always room for improvement. I love a resolution I heard in Relief Society today--I will appreciate the little steps of progress I make in the coming year. Too often we look for the failures instead of seeing the progress we have made.
I am starting the year with so many blessings. That makes it a good year. Onward 2011!!!