Signed & Sealed

Our oldest is graduating from high school. It's crazy to think I've been a parent for 18 plus years. She is ready for this next chapter in her life and I believe this next ride will be her best yet. She is capable and passionate and a good friend. And although she has had a few really good friends throughout high school her best and closest friends are still out there, waiting to meet.

I spent 4 hours yesterday trying to figure out how to print address labels. Something Makenzie is leaving home with far more knowledge than me in. She would have had them done in about 20 minutes I'm sure. But these labels are for her graduation announcements. And I want to do them. Every stick and every lick as I seal that envelope reminds me of how she has been in my care for such a short time really. I hope we have taught her what she needs.

A Day In Chandler

I'm in Arizona visiting Merilee. It's been a wonderful trip. Today we visited two fun places, the Olive Mill and the Pork Shop. And on the way there I got to see the new Gilbert, AZ temple that is being built. It's a beautiful building.

Emma's 15th Birthday Interview

What is your favorite TV show?   Modern Family

What is your favorite movie?  The Avengers

What is your favorite color?  Purple

What is your favorite food?   "I just like food in general."

What is your favorite thing to do with mom?  Going to feisanna

What is your favorite thing to do with dad?  Snowboard

What is your favorite thing to do with your sisters?  Play Wii, play games

What do you want to be when you grow up?   Something FANTASTIC

Do you have a favorite friend?  Jenna, Nicole, Allie, Kylie, Ashleigh

Do you have a favorite thing to do when you are not at home?  Dance, soccer, running, sports in general

What is your favorite toy or thing?  Books

What is your favorite book?  Divergent by Veronica Roth

What is your favorite animal?  Giraffes and pandas

Do you want to go on a mission?  Yes

Do you want kids?  Probably

What is hard for you?  Decisions

What have you learned from your sunday school and YW leaders this year?  They have a lot of patience for all of our craziness.  About the Plan of Salvation and the Godhead.

What do you love to do?  Make people smile, "smiling's my favorite."



Emma, this past year you have shined. You have become a role model to those around you as they seek you out for your goodness, kindness and warm smile.  The sister missionaries want to spend time with you so they can take you with them to reach out to young girls that need encouragment with coming to church.  That is a testament to you and your bright spirit you have.  You have challenges in your life.  Some that if not cared for can be debilitating to you,  keeping you from progressing in life.  But you don't let it. You work hard and have learned so much about doing what you need to in order to succeed.  Keep at it.  It's a very valuable lesson in life.  You are a hard worker and we appreciate it as parents.  We are proud of how hard you work to achieve your goals.  We love you.

Words That Make A Difference

I thought I was okay.

There has been some stress-inducing moments in my life this past six months.

Being sick

Forcing daughter to break-up with boyfriend

Managing daughter's ADHD

Someone feeling not-so-loved because so much attention going to other two sisters (see two previous items).

Daughter not finding job and working

College decisions

Life decisions

Busy calling at church

Being yelled at by children

Not appreciated by children

Watching daughter's "friends" be unkind to her

Being unsupported by friends when I reach out

Not having anyone to talk to about my kids

Taking care of my mother full-time

These are just a few.

This past weekend I was in Rexburg for Makenzie's ballroom dance competition.  We stayed a few extra days to visit with friends.  On Sunday evening their oldest daughter came by with her new husband.  

I hadn't seen her in a while.

We talked for a long time.

She said to me, "you seem different." 

"You aren't the same."

"You aren't as spunky."

I shrugged and said, "really?" 

Knowing exactly what she did mean.

You see, I just don't have it in me.

Then she said, "I want you to know that you have been a huge influence in my life."

"You have helped shaped me into who I am."

"I wouldn't be the person I am without your influence."

I starting crying.

And couldn't stop.

And I realized that I was so desperate to hear those Words.

To feel appreciated and to feel that I have made a difference in my children's lives.

Most of the time they begrudge me and don't listen to my advice.

And can even be mean.

I don't deserve it.

I know I'm a good mom.

But even good mom's need to hear it.

And so when I heard this 25 year-old say this to me, I was overwhelmed with gratitude.

But the tears made me realize that I'm not okay.

And I will fix that.

Shauna Shiels Irish Dance for sale

Eye catching dress made by Shauna Shiels for 2011 Oireachtas.  This dress is the center of attention on stage due to the fun, bright colors and 100s of sparkling black and white Swarovski crystals. You literally cannot help noticing this dress. The black velvet is a wonderful contrast to the bright pink and yellow. This dress comes from a smoke free home and includes matching pink bloomers, headband and silver & pink gem number holder.

Full purchase price refundable within 3 days of receipt of dress. Shipping to be paid by buyer in case of return.

The Sun Is Up

The view from where I'm lying in bed. I can hear the birds. They sound as happy as I do.

Impossible