{Gratitude}

Go this awesome email from Kami, another ISAGENIX team member and she had some powerful words or wisdom to share that inspired me so maybe they will inspire you . . .

Is today the best day you have ever had? If not, why? What do you all say that we start right now and make today the most joyous day!?! I am learning more and more about the desires of our hearts. What are your desires? What is it you want? If you could make today be anything you wanted it to be, how would it look? Well today is your lucky day because "God grants according to our desires"! The key is to know what those desires are! So I want you to sit down for a minute and write down what it is you want! Be sure to include details! Studies have shown that just by writing it down gives you a 90% better chance of actually achieving it! There is something magical about the written word! Then for a moment, close your eyes and imagine having exactly what you want- this starts the law of attraction! Turn to God and be grateful for all that you have now and all that you will be blessed with in the future! Do one more thing for me, that is say THANK YOU every chance you get! You can't have gratitude in your heart at the same time you have stress or anger or worry! So I choose to be grateful! What a beautiful world we live in and man are we soo blessed!

I love you all and hope you remember that the power of love and gratitude will dissolve all negativity in our lives, no matter what form it has taken!

{Just a thought}

{Aaaaahhhhh - Spring Break}

That's right we are officially on spring break - and that means no homework for a week - yipee. I think that is the part that stresses me out the most is making sure all the homework gets done every night. So I am so looking forward to this week. My next favorite part is kids sleeping in. I am able to accomplish so much in the wee hours of the morning. And let me tell you my kids love sleeping in - even my little boys love sleeping in. Looks like we are staying home - due to many reasons - we have a car going in the shop on Monday (which will take a big chunk of money) and the price of gas is so outrageous. Don's friend has a beach site in San Diego - so if funds permit he might take a few kids at the end of the week. We will just have to see. But really life is pretty nice here is Arizona in this beautiful spring weather. I think we are going to be finding lot's of fun activities to do OUTSIDE. What's your favorite thing to do in the valley of the sun ?

Morgan had a long productive day of therapy yesterday - we started out at 10 and didn't return home until 4. We had 2 appointments on opposite ends of town and I stretched time out so we were out of the house the entire time. She continues to make baby steps and we are headed in the right direction.

The boys had two other brothers sleeping over last night and I am beginning to hear the pitter patter of little feet in the kitchen so the troops must be waking up. We have ball practice in just a bit and then I get to conquer my "to do" list. Love Saturdays, love how productive I feel. Love getting everything done so I can truly just relax and enjoy my Sunday. Speaking of Sunday I have to teach tomorrow - so I better get working on my lesson. Have a happy day my friends.

{It's Finally Thursday}

I have gotten so much accomplished this week, it feels great. I made these cute little blankets (love them - they take about 30 minutes each) for Jade and the baby (see how I have such a hard time using his real name and I shouldn't) okay Jade and Marquett. Jade just turned "5" she is such a big girl now. I am very proud of myself for setting boundaries and sticking to them. It's taken this old dog a long time to learn that I can't be everything to everyone all the time. And when I try to be guess who suffers ? My family. So I have keep reminding myself that I can love these little kids and we can be their family, but I do not need to raise them and provide for them. Renee made the choice to be a mom and I need to let her be the mom. Anyways - Jade is so excited to be 5. And she is thrilled that in August she will start kindergarten.
ARE YOU READY FOR SOME BASEBALL !!!!!!!!!
Can you tell by looking at the picture below what season it is here in Arizona - It's baseball season. We are so blessed to live across the street from the baseball field. I literally just walk across the street and watch my boys play ball. But my street becomes the overflow parking lot. But that is just fine if I get the benefit of walking to the field. How blessed we are. We love baseball season and we love this beautiful time of year here in the valley of the sun. Come and visit it is gorgeous.

Well this morning I finally finished up getting all my tax stuff together and sent them away to my uncle (the miracle worker) Copied all the medical bills thus far and sent them to the insurance company and am just finishing up orders. Secured a beautiful cabin in the woods for the Rusty Pickle Retreat this fall. With alot of my to do list done I think I am going be able to go to my scrap table and work on some classes - wooooo hooooo. It feels so good to conquer that to do list. (thanks ISAGENIX - I have so much energy right now it is dangerous) Maybe my house will get clean, but then again maybe not - I NEED to scrap and work on some classes)

Morgan is making baby steps. But as long as we are moving in the right direction is all that matters to me. She is worn out from the intense physical therapy. She says her body feels as though a mac truck hit her. She is now hooked up to a TENS devices. That she wears for a minimum of 3 hours a day. It is awesome - it really works for pain relief and also retraining the nerves. First, they target your sensory nerves, stimulating them to block pain signals and prevent their transmission to the brain. Second, TENS promotes production of endorphins, the body’s natural pain reducing substances. I really think this will help in her recovery quite bit. She is doing well with her school work and she really likes her teacher. They communicate mostly through email throughout the day and then he comes once a week to collect assignments and bring new ones. She has been getting out a bit more. If I can find things for her to look forward to then she seems to do well.

Well - lookie there not much time until I start picking up kiddos. Have a great day everyone.

{Why do I do what I do, when I know what I know}

Crazy question isn't it ? But one we probably all find ourselves asking. I was having this conversation with my mom and some friends this week. If I know what to do - then why don't I do it consistently ? Good question that can apply to so many areas of my life.

1) Spiritually - my day is always better when I start my morning with quiet meditation, prayer and scripture study. I mean my day is ALWAYS better.
2) Eating well - I know if have my ISAGENIX shake in the morning and evening I feel great and loose weight. I know if I take my vitamins and Omega-3 I feel awesome and have the energy to accomplish what I need to throughout my day.
3) Drinking my water - I know if I drink lot's of water I feel incredible.

So you would think it is a no brainer right !!!! Why do I have such a hard time with it ??? I think I need to make signs and post them everywhere. Maybe even print some of those horrible pictures of me I would never want anyone to see and post them all over. SO here's to doing what I know I am supposed to do and feeling the way I want to feel - which is GREAT. I mean really - I made my yummy shake this morning at 6 am took my vitamins and I am rockin and rollin. Days like these scare Don and he always asks "what did you take ?"

So I need to finish up my taxes so I can mail them to my amazing uncle. And work on insurance and bills - oh joy !!!!!

{Better Set Your TIVO right Now}

Before you forget THE OSMONDS 50th ANNIVERSARY is being broadcast on PBS again on Thursday March 13th at 7:00 pm.

{Reflections Of Christ}

I just had to share something really amazing that is happening at the Arizona Temple visitor’s center. With the Easter season approaching (sooner than we think this year) our focus turns to our savior. We promise to always remember him and there is now one more powerful tool to help us remember him - to remember that He is REAL - and this witness of Christ does not require membership in the Church or a temple recommend or anything more than simply going to the Visitors Centers at the Mesa, Arizona Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and experiencing the incredible photographic exhibit, "Reflections of Christ" by local photographer Mark Mabry.

You can experience beautifully crafted photographs from a massive project aimed at helping us to better grasp the reality of Jesus Christ. There are about 25 photos in this exhibit, composed during a four-month effort by Mark Mabry with the help of many others. They are accompanied by a special soundtrack of sacred music prepared by local artists specifically for these photos. The story of the making of this exhibit and its music is told in a beautiful 30-minute film that plays continuously in a side room next to the gallery. Reflections of Christ features fine-art photographic depictions of the life of The Savior – it looks simply amazing. We are taking our family to see it at the Mesa Temple Visitors Center on Sunday afternoon.

Click {HERE} to view a peak of the Reflections of Christ

Click {HERE} to view the location and hours of the Mesa Arizona Temple Visitors Center

{Shhhhhh . . . All is quiet on the western front}

Can you even believe it is Friday already ? Where in the world did this week go. Well let me tell you my guilty pleasure this evening. My house is almost silent. It is simply beautiful. Don took Coleton and Logan to an overnight cubscout camp. It is called Camp Digalus and there theme is Return of the Frog Wars (it's a star wars knock off) My boys are gonna have so much fun. Karleigh has gone to spend the night at her friend Megan's House. Morgan has got herself set up in her room with movies all night and Dylan is hanging out at his friend Matt's house. So it is so quiet. Not that I do not LOVE my kids and hubby - but I LOVE the quiet every now and then also. While reading Heather's blog she shared something that her mom shared with her and I found it so incredibly relevant to my life right now -
A lecturer when explaining stress management to an audience, raised a glass of water and asked, 'How heavy is this glass of water?' Answers called out ranged from 20g to 500g. The lecturer replied, 'The absolute weight doesn't matter. It depends on how long you try to hold it. If I hold it for a minute, that's not a problem. If I hold it for an hour, I'll have an ache in my right arm. If I hold it for a day, you'll have to call an ambulance. In each case, it's the same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes.'
He continued, 'And that's the way it is with stress management. If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, as the burden becomes increasingly heavy, we won't be able to carry on. ' 'As with the glass of water, you have to put it down for a while and rest before holding it again. When we're refreshed, we can carry on with the burden.'
'So, before you return home tonight, put the burden of work down. Don't carry it home. You can pick it up tomorrow. Whatever burdens you're carrying now, let them down for a moment if you can.'
So, my friend, put down anything that may be a burden to you right now. Don't pick it up again until after you've rested a while.
Here are some great ways of dealing with the burdens of life:

* Accept that some days you're the pigeon, and some days you're the statue.
* Always keep your words soft and sweet, just in case you have to eat them.
* Always read stuff that will make you look good if you die in the middle of it.
* Drive carefully. It's not only cars that can be recalled by their maker.
* It may be that your sole purpose in life is simply be to kind to others.
* Never put both feet in your mouth at the same time, because then you won't have a leg to stand on.
* Nobody cares if you can't dance well, just get up and dance.
* The second mouse gets the cheese.
* When everything's coming your way, you're in the wrong lane.
* Birthdays are good for you. the more you have, the longer you live. (I am still having a hard time with the whole 40 thing)
* You may be only one person in the world, but you may also be the world to one person.
* We could learn a lot from crayons... Some are sharp, some are pretty and some are dull. Some have weird names, and all are different colors, but they all have to live in the same box.
*A truly happy person is one who can enjoy the scenery on a detour.

Just as Heather explained that she didn't want to refer to the things in her life as burdens (well maybe let me clarify - I will refer to insurance and medical bills as some sort of burden right now in my life) but everything else is just stuff I fill my plate with and it is basically all Good Stuff that I really enjoy, but many times I will allow my plate to get too full. So it is a reminder to me not to fill my plate too full or everything will get spoiled and I won't get to enjoy anything. But who says I can't have two plates. Like tonight - I have no family responsibilities (expect to keep an ear on Morgan - but she will be watching movies and chatting on the phone with her friends until she falls asleep) so I can put that plate down. I know this sounds almost silly, but I am so excited to just lay in my bed by MYSELF and have the remote and flip through whatever channels I want. I will think of Don and my little boys, but they love sleeping under the stars and what fun for a dad and his boys. Although - I will probably fall asleep as soon as my head hits the pillow.

Okay now for more inspiration - I guess it has just been one of those days where I have been open for inspiration.

I am also so excited because I have talked a big talk for a very long time of my idea of the ideal way to scrapbook and it took my friend Kirsten (owner of About Memories and More in Flagstaff, AZ) to really start it. While going through the boxes and boxes, and cd after cd gather photos for Dylan's eagle scout project I finally said "ENOUGH is ENOUGH" get with it Kristan. How sad is it that I profess to be a scrapbooker for going on 14 years now and the majority of my photos are in photo boxes , on cd's or in my computer. I go all over the country teaching women the importance of preserving there story and yet I found pictures I haven't even seen in 14 years this past week. My little boys had so much fun seeing Dylan at their age. My kids spent hours looking at photos and reliving memories. My one sister in law, who is a photographer by degree and scrapbooker by family pressure has all of her photos neatly in Pioneer photo albums in 4x6 photo sleeves. They are all (probably 25-30 of them) on a shelf in her living room where her family can do what ? Look at them and enjoy them. So I have vowed to follow Kirtsen's example and get photo's into albums. I have also chosen to use the We R Memory Keepers albums and I am sticking with the Black Classic Leather 12x12 3 ring binders. This way I can add whatever size pages I want. I can add the 12x12 photo pages that hold 6 4x6 photos per page, 12x12 pages protectors, 8 1/2 X 11 and so on. I love the new freedom of mixing page sizes.

I have lifted the following from Kirsten's blog to share with you all :

I'd like to share a few things I've learned during this project:

It's ok to only have one set of photos printed. Duplicates are not necessary! You can reprint the ones you want to scrapbook, and save yourself some serious cash! I cannot tell you how many photos I threw, yes, threw away! What a waste of money!

Put your photos in a photo album for your family to enjoy. Don't rely on your computer to be your album. I cannot tell you how many people who have come in that had a hard drive crash & they lost them all.

If they're in a photo album, your family can enjoy them anytime they want! AMEN

You don't have to use separate albums for your photos and your scrapbooks. I chose the WeR albums because they were 12x12, they held photo pages AND scrapbook pages. And you can even use odd size protectors, like an 8 1/2 x11 protector to hold art work, report cards or other miscellaneous memorabilia that go with the photos.

You don't have to scrapbook everything. That mentality will just hold you back from scrapbooking the moments that you really want to scrapbook.

Don't forget to journal. You can slide a 4x6 piece of cardstock in the photo sleeve to leave your thoughts of those particular moments. It's really important. If you wait until you have time to scrapbook a whole layout you may forget the very essence you were trying to convey.

So I would like to challenge YOU. Yes, YOU to get those photo's in an album. I am going to think of an amazing incentive !!! But for now the incentive is to allow your children to remember the wonderful memories of their childhood. Thank you Kirsten for reminding me and for just doing it - it was the push I needed.

Are you with me ? Ready, Set, Go !!!!

{Cousins through the Years}

Our friend John put together an amazing video of the boys for the court of honor. While looking through photos of Dylan it was fun to see him and Kelly (my oldest brothers son) through the years. It made me really stop and appreciate the fact that I am so blessed to have both of my brothers and their families within 10 minutes of me. That we have been able to raise our kids together and no matter what my kids have cousins that are like their best friends and the best part is they will have each other forever. Dylan and Kelly are only 9 months apart and it has been so awesome for them to grow up together. They each still have their own friends. But they always know they have each other. That is how it is with all the cousins. I am so grateful for the incredible bond they all share. All 13 of them.

{Wednesday Already}

Where has the week gone ? Currently I am sitting in the waiting room at Morgan's Physical Therapy. Right in the same chair I occupy 3 days a week. But I must admit I sure do get alot done. Thank goodness for laptops. I just bring my handy dandy laptop with me and I can sit and in put orders, catch up on emails, work on MEMORY MIXER or update my blog. It's been a busy, busy week. Where to begin ? Well how about Dylan's Eagle Scout Court of Honor. How did he grow so fast ? I had so much fun going through pictures. The top left he was 2 and then the other is him with my mom on Sunday night at his court of honor. Through my hours of picture hunting I have been inspired to start a new challenge on my blog - coming soon !!!!! More details on that later. But I did come across this fun challenge at one of my favorite new on line stores {BLUE MOON SCRAPBOOKING WEBSITE} {BLUE MOON BLOG} Just upload a layout for your chance to win a $25.00 gift certificate. I am all about winning free stuff - how about you ?

{The Next American Idol}

One of our family's favorite things to do is to watch American Idol together every season. This young man from Utah has stolen our hearts - David Archuleta is absolutely amazing. If you missed his performance you can see it here - {Imagine} His voice is flawless. he is so humble and just about the cutest thing we have ever seen. Tonight is the girls and we will just have to see if they can even hold a candle to this young man.

{What a cute little visitor}

So yesterday afternoon the door bell rings and look who it was . . . . . my cute little nephew Matthew.
He came to visit Morgan and bring a smile to her face. He is the cutest boy in town and he is just sooooo happy. He loved our piano and Morgan loved watching him play.

{I am not sure I like the word "AGING"}

yesterday Janna and I went to meet the Glitz Design girls becuase we are now the new reps in AZ for them. They were so cute, I love their product and it we have some good things in the works.

Anyways, on our drive I just kept Janna what a problem I am having with the "4-0" numbers. And she said she did to until our friend Tricia (of scrapbook.com) shared this with her -

Aging is a privilege, not a predicament

Turning 40 is a blessing. You finally know enough to ignore small-minded people AND you have the confidence to do it. You finally have enough confidence to say “no” to things that don’t benefit you, your family, or your priorities, without guilt.

You’ll also notice a difference in the way people treat you – they know not to give you their crap – not to dump on you and they respect what you say more.
Here’s a visual that worked for me - Think about the new mom you see out with her child at the mall. The big huge stroller, the enormous diaper bag, all that STUFF, for that tiny little baby. You always smile at that and think how that new mom is just way too bogged down right? How someday she’ll know better? How she doesn’t really need all that STUFF for the little tiny baby?

Then think of you, after your second child. How you just grabbed a diaper, pacifier, maybe a bottle and hoped for the best when you left the house. That’s what turning 40 is like. Turning 40 is having your second life. You leave the baggage you’ve been carrying around - the emotional baggage. The need to please, the worrying about your looks, trying to be everything to everyone, trying to compete with the younger, prettier girls, etc. You lighten up your load. And when your load gets lighter, you can focus on what’s important to you.

They all assure me 40 is way better than 39 anyday - so I am just going to have to trust them on this one.

{Survivor of 40 & Stake Conference}

Well, I had a good birthday whether I wanted to or not. Friday night I went to dinner with my whole family to a fun little restaurant in Desert Ridge called the office - Everyone came (Mom, Uncle Jim, Aunt Judy, Jason, Jamie, Karen, Steve, Don, myself and even my niece Alli - no babysitters left) We had a fun evening just enjoying each others company.

Then Saturday morning I woke up and I went to meet my Scrap Therapy friends. They are letting us use one of their old computers from their store to try and get Morgan hooked up to do her school work on line. They are just the kindest people - thank you gals for love and support. We have one problem and maybe there are some computer guru's out there that can help us. When you open windows it is asking for a password and the password has been forgotten. I am sure there is a way around this - I just haven't figured it out yet. So I am open to any suggestions.

I was invited to go to a birthday lunch at Ginna Bairds house. She is in my ward and they are starting a monthly birthday luncheon in our ward the last Saturday of the month. And it just so happened to be my birthday. It was so nice - they treated us like queens.

Then Saturday night we went to the adult meeting for Stake Conference where we watched the Worldwide leadership training. The focus was mainly on families and it seemed to be speaking to me. Then Sunday we enjoyed stake conference and we had an amazing meeting. President Campbell focused on the topic of making our homes a refuge from the world. He encouraged us to live in such a way that we have the spirit with us at all times - by keeping the commandments, reading our scriptures, praying daily, keeping the sabbath day holy and attending the temple regularly. He also encouraged us to eliminate EVERYTHING in our lives that will drive away the spirit. I don't know about you, but this is something I know we can improve on in our home. I know we need to monitor what comes in through those cable and Internet wires into our homes. We need to really be aware of who our kids are hanging out with and we need to try a create that influence for good in our homes. He reminded us that our homes can be that refuge if we will just remember to do those things to invite the spirit of the Lord into our hearts and homes. Goodness is more powerful than evil, light is greater than darkness. Just think about it - if you walk into a dark room and turn and turn on the light the dark will be gone. Darkness cannot seep in where there is light. Just the same "evil cannot tolerate the presence of light". Remember, there are no perfect families. Only families that are striving and working towards perfection. We all have challenges. I know everyone does. But we can make it through anything if we will always remember to put our families first.

Then Sunday evening we had our monthly family birthday party at Steve and Karen's house. I love being with my family and my kids love being with their cousins.

{Stop that Clock}

Oh my how in the world did I get here ? Only 24 more hours of being thirty something ????? Seriously - I honestly cannot beleive I am turning 40. I know many of my friends are 40 - and you are all saying "give me a break". But seriously think back to the day you turned 40. That is a big pill to swallow. I know I will be no different tomorrow than I am today. But whatever - 40 is a big number. And it means I am not thirty something anymore !!!! Okay I will get over it. Maybe tomorrow will just come and go quickly.
As for everything else - life seems to be good. The home bound teacher came yesterday and met with us and he was AWESOME !!!! Morgan's stress was cut in half. Most of the work is computer based which is so good for her. (once we get the computer situation figured out) and he basically told her - just complete the assignments and you are going to graduate. Yippee skippee.
We have water therapy again today and that seemed to be really good for her and I beleive we are going to see a ton of improvement. Now we just keep our fingers crossed that we get her approved for the secondary insurance. If not we will cross that bridge when we come to it.
Got a ton of stuff to do today on my very last day of being 39 - so I better get out and do it.
Happy Friday Everyone !

[So much GOOD in this world}

So I have been touched by so many incredible things this morning. First of all I was reading the inspiring words of MELODY ROSS and I must just say she has the ability to lift me up just at the right time. She shared about a conversation she had with HEIDI (another one of my favorite women)
women are STRONG....we can do anything, we can get through anything, we can bear anything....and we have the POWER TO LIFT EACH OTHER UP more than any force on this earth.....and then also that we have the power to DESTROY each other more thoroughly than any force on this earth ever could......that is the power of women....and that it's so crucial that we all embrace the goodness of the power we hold in our hands, and not ever use it for destructive purposes.

We do have the ability to make it through anything, I am amazed at the God given strength I have been blessed with. I then just had this wonderful inspiration come into my inbox :

"We do not know the future, but our Father in Heaven does, and He will lead and guide us if we let Him. When we are in tune with the Spirit, we will see many small miracles happen in our lives. I have found that having the ability to see and recognize these small miracles is based upon my spiritual worthiness, my willingness to be obedient, and my desire to not allow myself to become complacent and caught up in worldly and personal pursuits."
--Ronald T. Halverson

Just kind of reminds me that my Heavenly Father is very aware of our struggles and he will guide us and lead us if we just turn to him and ask him for the help we need.

I am so touched by so many small miracles in my life. The friends that I have made by working in the scrapbook industry will be treasures I hold dear forever. One friend I haven't seen since the fundraiser just sent me an email. How blessed we are to be women, and how blessed we each are to be able to make a positive difference in this world just by reaching out and helping those around us. I have many things to be grateful for.

One more little blessing - the Home Bound teacher just called and he is coming today !!!! Yahoo - it's all good.

{Thursday}

Well - I think it is safe to say it has been a good week. No major steps backward so in my book that is good. Morgan started Auquatic therapy yesterday and she worked out in the pool for an hour and she was tired when she was done. This to me is such a good sign. They had her walking across the pool (heel to toe walking). I still cannot get her to do much at home, but hopefully when the teacher starts coming that will help alot. Keep your fingers crossed and say a little prayer for us that this secondary insurance gets approved for her. We cannot keep paying $150 - $300 a week in copays. We are sinking pretty fast and if this insurance get's approved it should cover our co-pays. We gave them the rest of the information they needed today and hopefully we will hear soon. If it doesn't go through I don't know what we will do ? So let's just think positive.

I have had fun week getting back to working with my local scrapbook stores and getting them stocked with the latest and the greatest of all the hot new products. Had the chance to go out to the new Anthem store yesterday and I just have to say "WOW" it looks so awesome !!!! Now I am working on designing some new classes and hoping to get back on the calendar locally next month (no traveling yet)

Came across this great blog today {SCRAP FAITH} It is such an inspiring site. They welcome members of ALL faiths to come and be inspired to scrap about their beliefs so generations to come will know that what you believed made you who you are. Love it !

I found a little inspiration from Spencer W. Kimball there also :

Let us remember, too,
that greatness is not always a matter of the scale of one's life,
but of the quality of one's life.
True greatness is not always tied to the scope of our tasks,
but to the quality of how we carry out our tasks,
whatever they are.
In that attitude,
let us give our time, ourselves and our talents to the things that really matter now,
things which will still matter a thousand years from now.

Does that make you just stop and think about how you are living your daily life. Are you focused on the things that REALLY matter.

Have a great day friends!

{All Together Now}

Sing the Dora song with me "We did it, we did it, we did it, did it, did it - wave your hands in the air cause we did it". After refusing to pay a repairman and filling up the tub with pans of boiling water (so Morgan could take a bath before seeing Andrew) which did nothing, the water was still freezing. I searched the internet and found a You Tube video on fixing the water heater. I made Don come in and watch it with me - and we DID IT! So proud of myself and him of course. When we were finished he came out and told my girls - make sure any guy you date knows how to do these things. I think that it brings alot to the surface for Don and makes him really think. His dad is a wonderful man who we love dearly, but he never really had the time to teach Don any skills. With Don being the only boy he didn't have the opportunity to learn some very important skills that could save us a lot of money in the end. So I think he is more concious about teaching our boys how to do the things he knows.
Morgan had a great day with Andrew - they watched movies and just visited. He is such a great guy and they really enjoy spending time together and it helps her to get her mind off the pain. So wish he lived closer.
Things are moving along, she starts her aquatic therapy tomorrow and we have been approved for a Home Bound teacher. (thanks Sherry) So life is begining to feel a little more normal. I will have to make sure my house is clean every day for this teacher, but that is a small price to pay to have someone come to house and teach her.
We will need to figure out a way to get a computer. The family computer has crashed a thousand times and we keep trying to just "fix" it and in reality it is old and we just need a new computer. The kids use my laptop and that is a dangerous thing. Can't afford to have that crash. So time to file our taxes and get a new computer so I can go to appointments while Morgan is with her teacher. Plan would be for her to get caught up and get to the point where she can walk without crutches and get back to school by the 1st of April so she can enjoy the rest of her senior year. Keep your fingers crossed for us.

{Let's Think Positive}

These pictures are from New Years Eve - Dylan was indesperate need of a hair cut so he refused to take the baseball cap off. He drove me crazy all night with that look. But he has since then gotten a very handsome haircut and does not have the hat on the head as much. ANyways - reason for these pictures is that Kelly (my nephew just turned 16 - he is the one in the left picture with Dylan and then in the front with all the girls) So wished these boys were into dating - look at these cute girls that love to hang out with them - but I guess all is well - they all love hanging out together and it is such a good group of kids. Anywhoo - Dylan goes to jump in the shower and he comes right back out and he reports "NO HOT WATER". I thought of course there is no hot water - what else could possibly happen. So initially I thought oh it must just be that I drained it doing lot's of laundry and dishes. But guess what ? This morning still no hot water. SO that is my quest this morning - trying to figure that out without having to pay HIGH holiday weekend repair man rates. SO think positive. (Did I mention that I did not marry a handy man) Don is going into work and so I am on my own on this one. I'll report my findings and sucesses later . . . .

{The Eye Is Not Good}

Just returned from the eye doctor and Karleigh has a Corneal Ulcer. What is that ? Exactly what I said - It is an ulcer that developed on her cornea. While I was gone Karleigh's eye got infected and she kept wearing her contacts and so the bacteria began to form an ulcer on her cornea. I guess this is considered an "EMERGENCY" so I guess I am glad the nurse added one more appointment to my day. Anywhoo - off to keep disenfecting my home from the cootie that invaded my house while I was gone spend time with those I love (even if they are sick)

{I made it and the family survived}

I made it home last night about 11 pm - Woo Hoo. The house was still standing, most of the kiddos were snuggled in their beds. Coleton was awaiting my arrival. But Morgan's foot looked horrible - take a look - It is as red as a tomatoe. But her pain seems a little more managable. But the joy of it was she had gotten the flu while I was gone - so she is a sickie. But I said "Moms home and she will get the germs out of this house". I have put all my travels on hold for right now - and I will just focus on my family and my local stores here in Arizona (lucky them - hope they don't get sick of me) Morgan is starting aquatic therapy and we are working on insurance so she can go numerous times a week. if I had the moola I would take her everyday. She is getting really depressed just laying in bed all day and this is the only position her foot feels comfy and safe. So it is a battle to get her up. But I have no idea of the intensity of nerve pain. SO I just need to listen to her. To make my day even more exciting I got a call from the school and they told me to come and pick up karleigh and get her to the eye doctor ASAP. This morning she was complaining her eye was killing her. I could tell she had a cold and I was just thinking maybe her cold had settled into her eye and so I made her take out her contact and we put drops in and such and after a while of being at school her eye was just watering and she was in alot of pain so they sent her to the nurse. The nurse thinks she has a cornea abbrastion (spelling ?) So needless to say I am the doctor taxi today. Will let you know the status of the eye when we return home.

As for CHA - it was fabulous. I loved seeing all the industry friends we only get to see a couple times a year and I am so excited for all the new products that will be arriving in the local Arizona stores very soon !!!!!

Well looks like my little break between dr appointments is over - be back later to check in.

{I am so sad}

Mitt Romney just pulled out of the presidential race. I understand that he did what he needed to do, but I am still so sad. His speach was absoluelty AMAZING!!!! He will be the president of the Untied States at some point.

{A Peaceful Night}

Well Morgan got a massage yesterday and it seemed to be just what the doctor ordered. My friend Carol called and said her neice was a massage therapist and could come over at 1:00. That was perfect - all the kids were still gone. I closed the drapes, lit a candle and put on some quiet Jim Brickman music. It completely relaxed her and we were able to manage her pain yesterday pretty well. If they didn't cost $60 bucks an hour (which is probably a really good deal) then I would have her come every couple days. But since I am not among the rich and famous then we will shoot for maybe every 2 weeks. Morgan slept peacefully last night and still happens to be sleeping now at 10:30 am. My goal for when I am gone is just to keep her calm and comfortable.

We will hit intense physical therapy again when I return home.

As for me I am a busy bee getting ready for CHA. Spending the day packing, putting in orders and finishing laundry.

Hope everyone has an awesome day !!!!

{Rusty Pickle Sneak Peaks}

Check them out {HERE}

{New Business Card}

In preparation for the CHA I had to make new business cards - gotta love my Memory Mixer !!!!

{Things That I "LOVE"}

Okay so with everything going on in my life it is pretty easy to get down. But the reality is as I was going along my daily tasks this morning I made a concious effort to recognize some of the things I am grateful for and that "I LOVE". You will find some of the simplest things can make me happy.

• The new energy rate plan I am on - it used to be 9 am - 9 pm I had to do my very best to conserve and use the least amount of energy possible. Now I just switched to noon - 7pm and it makes me so happy. I love that I can run my dryer in the morning even after my kiddos leave for school. Happy Day
• My ISAGENIX shakes - I love them. I can tell a definte difference on the days I am really good about drinking my shakes and drinking my water - I feel so good about myself and slowly but surely the weight is begining to come off.
• COUPONSENSE - gotta love saving money. It's another one of those things. When I put forth the effort and time and do it the rewards are great. I can save a ton of money. And right now money is not easy to come by.
• Baseball - even though baseball season makes our life a little crazy - I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE watching my boys play baseball. High school tryouts start today and Don has little league drafts tonight. It is so funny becuase he goes to tryouts and makes all these notes and then I go through the list and pick the parents that I want on our team. My list usually outweighs his list. (He knows what is good for him)
• MY FAMILY - I have the most incredible family. I have a mom who loves me and supports me 100% and then some. I have two incredible brothers and two amazing sister in laws. If anyone needs anything someone is always right there for you. My in laws are also pretty awesome people who love and support us. It is becuase of the love and support of my family and friends that I am even able to go to the trade show be out of town for 5 days. I know they will do all they can to help. And then there are times when I am missing my dad like crazy and when I stop and pray and have a quiet moment I can feel his presence just watching over me. I can feel his love wrapped around me. My entire life my dad was always able to make things better and he still does. I can hear his gentle whispering in my ear and the warmth I feel is so comforting. I am so grateful that FAMILIES ARE FOREVER.
• My friends - who could ask for better friends !!! I am truly blessed. I could go on and on and on. I have some pretty amazing friends. Yes, we are all so busy with our own individul families, but I know they are always there. During this time I have truly come to appreciate my friends and the love and support they offer me. It's the little things like making sure my kiddos always had cereal, milk, bread and snacks while I was away. To brining me laundry soap so I could sneak home for a few hours and do laundry during our two week hospital stay. Visits to the hospital just to let me know they care and were there for me. My PICKLE FRIENDS got me a gift certificate to DWE so I can have Jenny do my hair before I go to the show. Now that is called being in tune with what I really need. Thanks for being my friend and all the love and support you offer.
• My job - I will say it once, I will say it twice, I will say it a million times - I am so thankful for the amazing women I work with. I love the local scrapbook store owners and I have come to count them as some of my dearest friends. I love the people in the scrapbooking industry and I look forward to seeing them this next week. I love that I get to spend 5 days with two of my best friends Janna and Connie. I love that I get to see Lane and Kerry Hill and the entire Lasting Impressions gang. I love that I get to see Lance and Tasha and the pickle crew. I am excited to see Heidi. Can't wait to see the cute matching outfits those darling Bo Bunny girls will be wearing. I am excited to see the Durham family and all the new things Imaginsce has come out with. And I can't wait to see the We R Memory Keepers gang. it's always fun to see the people we only get a chance to see 2 or 3 times a year at trade shows. I love my job - what a blessing in my life.
• I am so grateful we live in a free country where we each can feel safe in our own political views and stands. And we each can choose to support the causes that we feel strongly about.
• Most improtantly I am grateful for the gospel in my life. I am grateful for the power of prayer and for priesthood blessings. I am thankful to my savior and for his atonement. I am so very confident that knows us and he knows our struggles and if we will just turn to him and ask for his help he will be there. I am thankful for the scriptures and for the guiding influence they are in my life.
• I am grateful for my husband who works everyday to provide for our family. Who really trys to do all he can to love and support me. Who is open to learning and making our family the best it can be.
• I am grateful to have been blessed with 6 amazing children. Each and everyone of them hs there own strengths and their own struggles. I am honored that my Heavenly Father has entrusted me to be their mom.

Go out and have a fabulous day and take the time to think about and maybe even jot down the things you are greatful for. I promise it can brighten even the darkest day.

"At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person.Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us."

{16th President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints}

Thomas S. Monson is the new president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, it was announced today at a news conference in the Church Office Building. President Monson, 80, succeeds President Gordon B. Hinckley, who died 27 January 2008.
The new world leader of the Church has called to serve with him in the First Presidency, the top governing body of the 13-million-member faith, President Henry B. Eyring, 74, first counselor, and President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, 67, second counselor. For the complete story click {HERE}.
My friend Heather gave a wonderful and touching review of President Hinckley's funeral, you can click here to get to {here} blog. Thank you Heather for sharing with us.

{Happy Birthday Baby & Not so fast}

Today is baby Marquett's "1st" Birthday. We will be meeting Renee and the kids at McDonalds for ice cream tonight for family night to celebrate.

As for my Monday and getting everyone back to school - I guess 1 out of 2 ain't so bad. I got Logan off to school, but I still have Morgan home. Unfortunately she slept with her foot elevated on pillows last night and she woke up to it red and buring. So we are learning something new everyday with this aweful disease. When you elevate it and allow for any kind of inactivity it leaves the sympathetic nerves at the spinal cord level uninhibited and increases the firing of the sympathetic nerves with aggravation of RSD. (So lesson learned) We have two doctors appointments today - one with the pain specialist and one with physical therapy (nothing like a $100 doctor day is what I call it - $50 copay to each specialist x 2) So here's hoping it will be a good afternoon.

I have a lot of things I need to get done today in preparation for leaving for CHA Friday night. So I better get to it !!!!

{Cute Bo Bunny Love Book w/ Rusty Pickle Chocolate Kisses}

Check out this cute book I made for my hubby for Valentines Day . . .

{Marissa is 20}

I am still sitting here pinching myself trying to beleive that my baby girl is 20 years old. But if she is 20 you know what that means don't you ? I am gonna be 40 on my birthday in a few weeks. Yikes. Well I couldn't be a prouder mom becuase she is such an amazing girl. She is living in Salt Lake right now and really stretching herself to live life to the fullest. She works full time and is going to BYU Salt Lake at night.

As for the rest of us - we have had a great weekend, (except for missing Marissa on her birthday) Don and the boys went to the NFL Experience yesterday. They seemed to have a fabulous time. Morgan had her friend Andrew over and they actually went to the movies. Morgan is begining to feel back to herself and is working on getting used to walking with one crutch. I think she has began to accept the fact that she is not going to be PAIN FREE for quite a while and she is trying to get on with her life the best she can. She went to church today and stayed the entire 3 hour block. She didn't join us for our annual superbowl party at the Dahl's house - instead she just enjoyed staying home and watching TV by herself. We are all heading to bed early. Morgan is going to try and head back to school tomorrow. She knows she has a lot on her plate, but I keep reminding her - ONE DAY AT A TIME.

Logan has been suffering from an ear infection for about 5 days. I took him to the doctor and got antibiotics - but he is still complaining and just isn't back to himself yet. He stayed home from school 3 days last week, so he really needs to get back to school also.

We have spent alot of time this weekend watching tributes to President Gordon B Hinkley. What an amazing man that truly influenced my life for the better. He will be missed. But I know he had a wonderful reunion in heaven with his dear sweet wife Marjorie.