Monday, December 8, 2008

DON"T GIVE UP....

I promise I will have more posts soon. I'm so behind because I have been busily behind my sewing machine and other crafting tools. We are doing a home made Christmas this year and I can't even prove my efforts because I don't want to give away any spoilers. Plus because we took a two week break from school in November I am keeping up with school work now- normally we take off the whole month of December for this exact reason. I'm slowly catching up on reading everyone elses blogs too. I miss my blogging world.......

Monday, November 17, 2008

Disneyland


Earlier this month we took our kids on a surprise trip to Disneyland as a Christmas present for our family. We just piled them in the car @ 5:30 am [after we had secretly packed] and after we started driving told them where we were going- I expected screaming but they just stared blankly and said they didn't believe us! We went early so that we could get there at a slow time of the year. I would say it was perfect, our longest line was 45 minute. We were able to go on many of our favorite rides

Another surprise that the girls got was that my parents were able to come with us. We also got to visit with other family members that live in California while we were there. (Tye-dye thanks to EMM- we love them)

We all were surprised one morning when we arrived and found that The Jonas Brothers were taping a concert for a Christmas program- that was fun.The BUZZ Blasters had to be a one true favorite, we all loved being able to see who could get the highest score. Others included Pirates of the Caribbean, Indiana Jones, The Tower of Terror and California Screamin' . Olivia was really into riding rides, most times I dragged her kicking and screaming and then she would be fine. Her favorite was the Enchanted Tiki room, I think she saw it 3 times.They just opened Pixie Hollow with the release of the Tinkerbell movie so we got to meet all the fairies.


The Haunted Mansion was decorated in a 'Nightmare after Christmas' theme. The decorations were fun but I liked the original ride much better. I like a little spooky.The Castle was decorated for Christmas.Hooray for good times, good fun and good memories!

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Sunday Brunch

I apologize if there is anyone out there who actually comes to read my Sunday Brunch and it hasn't been here. I have been a little busy lately and it has kept me from my computer. With that being said I move on to the topic I chose today- forgiveness.

Actually, I was inspired but the primary lesson today which was I Can Forgive. I had to fill in in a pinch and it has had me thinking. Forgiveness really is such a complex idea, especially where it deals with the Savior and atonement. The 5 year olds I taught today learned that it makes you happy and it is a way to do as Jesus would do.

If I want to be like Jesus and be happy, why is forgiveness so hard? Maybe pride, maybe holding on to being wronged allows for justification in other situations? Is it harder to forgive loved ones than strangers?

The Savior taught that if we forgive our trespassers we will be forgiven of the Father. (Matt 6:14-15)

I have some forgiving that I need to do. Some of it is daily little things, some of it is a little harder and more hurtful. I am accepting a challenge to forgive someone/something in an effort to brighten my holiday season and feel the Savior a little closer. I hope that I can do it and move forward. I encourage you to ponder this idea as well.

Have a wonderful day and you can read more Sunday Brunch from the Queen of Chaos

If you have a daughter who lets you...

do pretty things with her hair, here are some fun blogs.

http://babesinhairland.blogspot.com/

shedoeshair.blogspot.com

http://pipershairdos.blogspot.com/

http://piggiesnponies.blogspot.com/

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Halloween review

My kids love to pick obsure things to be for halloween. I like it because it is fun to be inventive in putting together their costumes. Here's our 2008 line up.
Olivia chose an easy fairy- we just hit the dress up box.
Garin was 'Ron Weasley'. At work each department chooses a theme and they compete for best design and stuff. This was the only picture I got of him that day. We were heading to our Trick or Treat on Main Street with the Free's.

Amellia wanted to be a golfer. Fortunately it was an uncommonly warm day.


Claire was 'Shirley Temple'. She is wearing a dress that was mine when I was 3 or 4 yrs old.




Riley is ZOONR-J5 aka The Cat from Outer Space.


















Happy Birthday Olivia- {back in October} It is hard for me to believe she is 4 years old!! We did her & Claire's room for a gift this year. They wanted an 'ice cream' room so here is what we came up with. The 'treats' on the wall are printed on foam core. I still have one wall that is blank so I think I will cut out their names in foam core and cute paper.








Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Fun Stuff

My friend Nancy turned me on to a great, free downloadable program that you can turn your blog into a book. Instant Journal!!! There are multiple other book ideas you can use this program for as well. CHECK IT OUT I'm hooked.

If you haven't been using your blog follower what are you waiting for!! It saves me lots of time and I never have to play catch up with my favorite blogs. Check it out on you dashboard.

Monday, October 20, 2008

Kidspeak

At our home the English language is the primary language spoken and is sometimes sprinkled with French, Spanish, Japanese or any other language for that matter. At meal times though our English is peppered with our kidspeak. If you ever dine with us, here are some translations you made need.

Frosted Mini Wheats: 'greasy sweets'
Rice Crispy Cereal: 'sizzles'
Toast cut into triangles: 'turtle toast'
a cube of butter: 'butter in the bowl'
Parkay butter spray: 'chucker butter'
a piece of cheese: 'naked cheese' {'naked' can also apply to any item that may normally have something on it but is not desired to be on it at that time. verb form is 'nakeded'}
Chicken drumsticks: 'chicken-on-a-bone'
Quesadilla: ' cheese wrapped up' or 'cheese folded up'
A half of an apple: 'a heart apple'
May I have a piece of toast?: 'May I have my bread cooked?'
Eggs: 'eggies'
Ramen: 'noodles'
refried beans with cheese: 'cheesy beans'
Ketchup: 'dip-it'
sour cream: 'cream'

Soda is generally not liked because it is too 'spicy'. Most dinner items are described with words like yuck, ewww, gross, disgusting and blahh. Also there is lots of screaming and crying as well in regards to vegetables and anything that looks different.

Saturday, October 18, 2008

For your consideration-

At this time of the year, as the election draws near, I want to share these things with you because I feel that it is important that everyone understand that you do not and should not settle for the lesser of two evils. We are asked to prayerfully consider our voting decision and most of the time we need to seek else where than the national main stream media for what is out there. Please take the time to consider the options. The videos will take some time but are well worth it. the first video is a Press Conference hosted by Ron Paul with 3 third party candidates including Chuck Baldwin who I am going to support. Following the video are excerpts from an email that Garin and I received that I whole heartedly agree with and finally more information on Chuck Baldwin. Enjoy.




Voting for the lesser of two evils has been a part of our electoral process for so long that many of us have just accepted that we are doing our best by voting for the one least capable of damaging our nations fabric. Voting for the lesser of two evils is a sin in the eyes of the Lord. Oh that was bold no? Read on. I'll start off by quoting a constitutional scholar from George Withe University and Pres. Benson.
Vote for the right people, as the spirit directs even if they seem to have no chance. President Benson said, 'The Lord says that he holds man accountable for their acts in relation to governments. (D&C 134:1) We must follow this council from the Lord: "Honest men and wise men should be sought for diligently, and good men and wise men ye should observe to uphold; otherwise whatsoever is less than these cometh of evil. (D&C 98:10)" Note the qualities the Lord demands of those who are to represent us. They must be good, wise and honest.' (Ensign Nov 1987) Also note that he said WE must seek DILIGENTLY for such men. It is not enough just to choose what we perceive as the lesser of two evils on the ballot. In the coming years we must follow the prophets and 'diligently seek out good, wise and honest men" to vote for. They may not win, but the Lord will not hold us accountable for electing Satan's servants. If you cannot find a candidate whom you feel the Lord would have you support, may I suggest you write in a candidate ... you feel confident would fill the position honorably and further the Lord's plan. Above all; cast a righteous vote.There was a two party system in the United States in 1844, much like there is today. In regards to the question of whether to vote for the "Whig" candidate or the "Democratic" candidate in the election of 1844, and his unwillingness to vote for either, the Prophet Joseph Smith stated:
....we shall have the satisfaction of knowing that we have acted conscientiously, and have used our best judgement. And if we have to throw away our votes, we had better do so upon a worthy rather than an unworthy individual who might make use of the weapon we put in his hand to destroy us. ( Times and Seasons, Nauvoo, IV, 441. Cited also in Roberts, Comprehensive History, II, 208-209.)

Additionally, Hyrum Smith, the prophet's brother stated:
We engage in the election the same as in any other principle: you are to vote for good men, and if you do not do this it is a sin: to vote for wicked men, it would be a sin. Choose the good and refuse the evil. Men of false principles have preyed upon us like wolves upon helpless lambs. Damn the rod of tyranny; curse it. Let every man use his liberties according to the Constitution. Don't fear man or devil; electioneer with all people, male and female, and exhort them to do the thing that is right. We want a President of the U.S., not a party President, but a President of the whole people; for a party President disenfranchises the opposite party. Have a President who will maintain every man in his rights. (History of the Church, Vol. 6, Chapter 15, page 323).

President Benson stated that the book of Helaman would be our best guide to follow as a type and shadow of our day. What does it say about how elected officials would gain the popularity of our votes?
Helaman 6:17 For behold, the Lord had blessed them so long with the riches of the world that they had not been stirred up to anger, to wars, nor to bloodshed; therefore they began to set their hearts upon their riches; yea, they began to seek to get gain that they might be lifted up one above another; therefore they began to commit secret murders, and to rob and to plunder, that they might get gain. Helaman 6:38 And it came to pass on the other hand, that the Nephites did build them up and support them, beginning at the more wicked part of them, until they had overspread all the land of the Nephites, and had seduced the more part of the righteous until they had come down to believe in their works and partake of their spoils, and to join with them in their secret murders and combinations. Helaman 6:39 And thus they did obtain the sole management of the government, insomuch that they did trample under their feet and smite and rend and turn their backs upon the poor and the meek, and the humble followers of God.

This is how the enticings work. We are thrown a branch here and there and after some time we eventually find that we're hanging on to the whole tree. This is not an all at once proposition. Now we know the doctrine and guidelines under which we should operate and can act as agents unto ourselves in electing those who will uphold the constitution of the U.S. ....

We are given a warning:
Now it is not common that the voice of the people desireth anything contrary to that which is right; but it is common for the lesser part of the people to desire that which is not right; therefore this shall ye observe and make it your law-to do your business by the voice of the people. And if the time comes that the voice of the people doth choose iniquity, then is the time that the judgments of God will come upon you; yea, then is the time he will visit you with great destruction even as he has hitherto visited this land.How do we not choose iniquity when those are sometimes our only options? How do we move forward and repair what is clearly not working? After all the definition of insanity is doing the same thing (toting the party line) while expecting a different result. The answer is to seek the Lords advise and through revelation and ACT upon those promptings. He knows the end from the beginning. In these times of such silent deceit, it is difficult to know the wolves from the sheep. Fortunately, the Holy Ghost has a sharp shears. Now I know full well that those who put this into practice are in the minority of the population. The chances for real change (not to be confused with what Obama offers) are slim. However, our faithful actions will be counted for righteousness and therein lie the blessings. We cannot hold back the rolling waters of the great deep but we can most assuredly stand firm in the knowledge that we stood our ground valiant in our testimony and fearless of the consequences. There most certainly is a "portent of stormy weather ahead" to which we better take heed. Attending the temple, living our covenants and keeping our eye on the prophet will help us live in a manner that will qualify us for heavenly help whenever we choose to ask for it. And do we ever at this time.

Chuck Baldwin

The Constitution Party

LDS for Baldwin

Thursday, October 16, 2008


There is just something about a new pair of jeans- that fit wonderfully- that is so great! No matter what size you wear or what mood you are in they can really make you feel good about yourself. My current favorites- the Sweeheart from Old Navy. {They're on sale right now ;) }

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

How did you get engaged?


In April of 1998, Garin and I drove from Utah to Washington to meet my parents. It was Easter weekend so Garin used that to create his idea for asking me to marry him.

After arriving at my parents home we whisked away to a near by rest area. I know a rest area sounds strange but at the time it was the only private (because no one goes there) and still park like place I could think of. My parents live in a farming community so there were little choices- anyway. He took me there and made me close me eyes while he prepared an Easter egg hunt.

I had to find each egg in numerical order. In each egg was a scripture that related to love and marriage in some way that was special to him. I didn't know how many eggs there were so I kept expecting that the next one would have a ring in it, and each time the egg felt too light to have a ring in it. At the end of the hunt, and still no ring,I started to wonder if he was tricking me. Instead of the ring in an egg it was in his scriptures and he had planned to smoothly drop to one knee with scriptures and ring in hand. It didn't exactly go as planned, the ring fell in the grass at me feet and he had to do a little searching. It didn't ruin anything, it was still a very sweet and thought out gesture. I will never forget it.

My ring was designed by Garin a few weeks before so I knew generally what it would look like but it was so much more beautiful in person than on paper. I cherish it so much because it comes from his heart and imagination.

Monday, October 13, 2008

I know, I know

I haven't posted in a while and thank you for continuing to check back. My mind is a little fried right now. We are moving into the holiday season and school and other projects have me a little crazy. So in an effort to get back on track here is a fun little video. My kids LOVE Scooby-Doo and memorized this little rap from one of the cartoons. It is entertaining as well as educational. Have a great day!

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

The Wilson's posted this fun packet for General Conference. I thought I'd pass it along!

Monday, September 29, 2008

My Crazy Eights

8 Favorite TV Shows:

Lost
Grey's Anatomy
Little House on The Prairie
The Office
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
Anything HGTV
The Biggest Loser (especially when I'm eating Ice Cream-HAHAHA)
The X- Files ( have to rent them)

8 Favorite restaurants:

Bajio
Chili's
Del Taco
Famous Dave's
Teriyaki Bowl
(these are more special than favorite:)
Ivar's in Seattle
Lorena's
Al Forno's

8 things that happened yesterday:

survived church
worked on Family Search Indexing
took a nap
was woken up 6 times during that 1 hour nap
spent some alone time with my kids
made a yummy soup
worked on some family history
stayed up late reading

8 things I look forward to:

no more allergies
Olivia's birthday
The Holidays
cooler weather
Our Christmas Surprise for our kids
General Conference
Saturdays
reading Breaking Dawn again

8 things on my wish list:

a quiet day to myself
organization
a new van
a little elbow room in a pretty place
shedding some pounds
shopping spree
a trip to Hawaii
a trip to Europe


If you read this, you're tagged- show me your crazy eights!

Sunday, September 28, 2008

A Favorite Scripture

2 Nephi 4: 15-24, 27-35 from the Book of Mormon

15 And upon these I write the things of my soul, and many of the scriptures which are engraven upon the plates of brass. For my soul delighteth in the scriptures, and my heart pondereth them, and writeth them for the learning and the profit of my children.
16 Behold, my soul delighteth in the things of the Lord; and my heart pondereth continually upon the things which I have seen and heard.
17 Nevertheless, notwithstanding the great goodness of the Lord, in showing me his great and marvelous works, my heart exclaimeth: O wretched man that I am! Yea, my heart sorroweth because of my flesh; my soul grieveth because of mine iniquities.
18 I am encompassed about, because of the temptations and the sins which do so easily beset me.
19 And when I desire to rejoice, my heart groaneth because of my sins; nevertheless, I know in whom I have trusted.
20 My God hath been my support; he hath led me through mine afflictions in the wilderness; and he hath preserved me upon the waters of the great deep.
21 He hath filled me with his love, even unto the consuming of my flesh.
22 He hath confounded mine enemies, unto the causing of them to quake before me.
23 Behold, he hath heard my cry by day, and he hath given me knowledge by visions in the night-time.
24 And by day have I waxed bold in mighty prayer before him; yea, my voice have I sent up on high; and angels came down and ministered unto me.


27 And why should I yield to sin, because of my flesh? Yea, why should I give way to temptations, that the evil one have place in my heart to destroy my peace and afflict my soul? Why am I angry because of mine enemy?
28 Awake, my soul! No longer droop in sin. Rejoice, O my heart, and give place no more for the enemy of my soul.
29 Do not anger again because of mine enemies. Do not slacken my strength because of mine afflictions.
30 Rejoice, O my heart, and cry unto the Lord, and say: O Lord, I will praise thee forever; yea, my soul will rejoice in thee, my God, and the rock of my salvation.
31 O Lord, wilt thou redeem my soul? Wilt thou deliver me out of the hands of mine enemies? Wilt thou make me that I may shake at the appearance of sin?
32 May the gates of hell be shut continually before me, because that my heart is broken and my spirit is contrite! O Lord, wilt thou not shut the gates of thy righteousness before me, that I may walk in the path of the low valley, that I may be strict in the plain road!
33 O Lord, wilt thou encircle me around in the robe of thy righteousness! O Lord, wilt thou make a way for mine escape before mine enemies! Wilt thou make my path straight before me! Wilt thou not place a stumbling block in my way—but that thou wouldst clear my way before me, and hedge not up my way, but the ways of mine enemy.
34 O Lord, I have trusted in thee, and I will trust in thee forever. I will not put my trust in the arm of flesh; for I know that cursed is he that putteth his trust in the arm of flesh. Yea, cursed is he that putteth his trust in man or maketh flesh his arm.
35 Yea, I know that God will give liberally to him that asketh. Yea, my God will give me, if I ask not amiss; therefore I will lift up my voice unto thee; yea, I will cry unto thee, my God, the rock of my righteousness. Behold, my voice shall forever ascend up unto thee, my rock and mine everlasting God. Amen.

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Journal Jar

A few years ago at an enrichment meeting I received a journal jar. It is a simply decorated jar full of potential memory preserves. The label touts that if one were to answer all the questions (about 100) they would have a nice little personal history started. I've decided that since my blog is essentially a journal and history of my current life that I might actually attempt to use my otherwise idle jar. I'll record the questions so you can start your own memory storage if you so desire.

Do you recall any outstanding family trips or summer holidays experienced as a child?

As a child, my dad was in the military so sometimes life felt like were on extended family trips. Usually when we moved we spent a lot of our free time experiencing the sights and history around us. I really enjoyed all the places we went from Williamsburg to Langley to Joshua Tree to the Denver Zoo and so on. All of this has extended into my adult life and so I am constantly dreaming of places to go and dragging my family here and there but I think we are all the better for it. It makes for great life experiences.
Not many of our excursions were over-nighters or for very long (unless it was to visit Grandma's house). I think this had to do with the fact that we were a family of 6 rowdy children who drove our parents crazy and that we were always cursed by Murray's Law- yes, I meant Murray not Murphy-. What is that you say? Well it is Like Murphy's law (whatever can happen will happen)but for our certain Murray Clan it applies specifically to cars, freak accidents and vacations unless you are my brother David who unfortunately lives in its shadow. One of our biggest vacations I remember took us on a tour of D.C. , Mount Vernon, and other Civil War sites. It was a true Murray's law example. It was a great trip. I loved it. But it rained and rained and rained. We camped and got soaked, we fished and got soaked, we toured museums and battlefields and got soaked. As I mentioned before 6 kids, and all that rain made potty breaks a constant bother as well. Because we were camping we had our gear in the car and my dad decided that while in D.C he didn't want to leave a certain knife in the car I'm not sure if it was because he didn't want it stolen or because he didn't want it on the streets on D.C in a homeless persons hands. Any way my mom kept it in her purse. Well the Smithsonian didn't take too well to that knife in my mom's purse. They confiscated it and almost arrested my dad. Needless to say my parents were glad to get home from that trip. The knife was never returned.
Another fun memory I have is travelling to Tennessee from California a few times for a family reunion at my great grandparents home. We would usually caravan with my dad's parents and our cousin. We all took turns riding in the grandparents car. That was the best place to be because Grandma new how to pack awesome snacks and we could eat whatever and whenever we wanted. One year my brother, my cousin and I spent the whole trip singing 'the Gambler' and 'On the Road Again' at the top of our lungs, nonstop. We thought we were so coool- HAHAHA. If we ever had to go to the bathroom Grandma made us use a Planters peanut can- that, not so fun.
I just love trips and could go on and on. I'll save that for a place where don't have to keep reading. I hope you enjoy reminiscing about your childhood trips.

Monday, September 22, 2008


Do you have a cure for thumb-sucking?????

Saturday, September 20, 2008

Are you feeling a little tired after church?

Do you feel a little tested and tried in your church duties? Feast on this quote from President Henry B. Erying, from the 2002 Ensign.

"You are called of God. The Lord knows you. He knows whom He would have serve in every position in his Church. He chose you. He has prepared a way so that He could issue your call... The person who was inspired to recommend you for this call didn't do it because they liked you or because they needed someone to do a particular task. They prayed and felt and answer that you were the one to be called."
" You are called to represent the Savior. Your voice to testify becomes the same as His voice. Your hands to lift the same as His hands. His work is to bless His Father's spirit children with the opportunity to choose eternal life. So, your calling is to bless lives. That will be true even in the most ordinary tasks you are assigned and in moments when you might be doing something not apparently connected to your call. Just the way you smile or the way you offer to help someone can build their faith."
"There will be times when you will feel overwhelmed. One of the ways you will be attacked is with the feeling that you are inadequate. Well, you are inadequate to answer a call to represent God with only your own powers. But you have access to more than your natural capacities, and you do not work alone. The Lord will magnify what you say and what you do in the eyes of the people you serve."

He will not leave you comfortless! John 14

Queen of Chaos is dishing up more spiritual food. Check out her side bar for more Sunday brunch.

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

A little catching up to do.

I haven't been very diligent in getting my daily posts out and I still have my contest to do but I've been a little tied up trying to be more diligent at housework (BLAGH). So here is what we did this weekend.

Saturday was our annual Lagoon day for Garin's work. It's their nice way of saying thanks to the employees and we look forward all year to attending.



Everyone soaked after Rattlesnake Rapids. We had fun being able to go on more rides together and our 2 oldest are all about roller coasters. We took turns with them.
Livvy wasn't so sure about the spinning rides, she kept saying ' it makes me have a stomach'.
Her sisters were sweet and helped her along.
Sunday was Amellia's 7th birthday. Being Sunday and since we all were tired from the day before so it was a low key celebration. But now that she has made her list and has her b-day money tomorrow is a much anticipated shopping trip.


Monday, September 15, 2008

Laura and 'Manly'




I have always loved The Little House on the Prairie television series. My favorite episodes are the ones when Laura falls in love with Almanzo. At one point when I was living in Provo I could watch it 3 times a day if my work schedule fell at the right times. I remember sitting with my roommates sapping over the romance. I still watch it nearly everyday and have hooked my children now as well. (Hubby still just rolls his eyes- I'll get him soon!)




Strangely I have never read the books, I don't know how that happened. So for school we are beginning to read the series together and practice some pioneering skills. I recently (on my own) finished Farmer Boy by Laura Ingalls Wilder. It is about Almanzo as a boy. I just loved this book it was so endearing. Not only was it an interesting story but filled with life lessons and useful information in regards to planting and harvesting. I don't have any boys of my own, but if I did I would encourage them to read this book.




Laura and Almanzo Wilder
1885
google images

Sunday, September 14, 2008

Sunday Brunch

I'd like to share some thoughts from our Regional Conference Broadcast we attended this morning.

Elder Ballard, member of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles, reminded us that we should be following the promptings of the Holy Ghost more promptly and diligently. It told us a story of when he was a bishop and missed an opportunity because he put off a prompting. He told of a woman in his ward who had been on his mind all day but due to the late hour of the night in which he had free time he chose to not bother her and visit her the next morning. Upon arriving at her home that morning he was greeted by his daughter with tears in her eyes because her mother had passed in the night. He regretted that chance he missed to bless and comfort her in her time of passing.
I am always second guessing my promptings. It is something I struggle with. But I know that as I exercise that ability I will get better at it. Not every prompting will be life changing but we won't know that unless we are obeying.

Sister Lant, General Primary President talked of raising our children righteously. She cited D&C 68 (v25-28) as being a guidance for us parents. She said that even if we are diligently saying prayers and reading scriptures and having family home evening it is no excuse to not keep trying harder to do better, there is always room for improvement. We should beware of allowing Satan to enter our homes and over booking our schedules.
I don't think any of us don't want to raise righteous families. But it is an on going battle in the world we live in. I would encourage you with your spouse (or not if you don't have one) to evaluate things in your home and find one thing to change or improve. It is a good way to start and open up communication. Something that we have enjoyed doing is a morning devotional.Our devotional includes prayer, song, stories from the friend, scripture memorization, etc. It helps set a mood for the girls for the day. Maybe something like this would benefit your home even if you had to do it at night, make it what your family needs.

President Monson, President and Prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, talked about prayer. He shared with us many endearing stories and poems but his main message was about making our homes a house of Prayer.
When I think of a house of prayer I think of the temple. Somewhere for reflection where the Spirit of the Lord can dwell. That is hard to come by sometimes in the daily chaos but it inspires me to want to find ways to create a more peaceful environment around me. It also inspires me to encourage more meaningful prayers and making sure my children have a better understanding of the power of prayer.
The primary scripture for this month is Mark 11:24 'Therefore I say unto you, what things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them and ye shall have them.'

If you have any questions about what you read here or who you have read about you can visit www.lds.org.

IF you would like to read more inspirational post please visit THE QUEEN OF CHAOS . You can read her post and look for 'Sunday Brunch' in her side bar for more.

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Patriot's Day

We all remember, with perfect clarity, where we were today- seven years ago. I was asleep, ready to give birth any day, when I was awakened by a phone call from Garin. It was hard to pull myself out of sleep and try to comprehend what was being said to me. And then we all watched TV for days.
When I think about these events and all that has passed since then I hope that I don't ever fall 'asleep' to love of country. That I remember with perfect clarity all that has passed in the history of our country to make it a blessing to live here. We don't have to be a solider in a battle to fight our cause for freedom. We can vote. We can be good neighbors. We can build our communities in righteousness and love. We can be educated. We can be prepared. Happy Patriot's Day!

Oh beautiful for heroes proved in liberating strife.
Who more than self their country loved
And mercy more than life!
AMERICA! AMERICA!
May God thy gold refine.
'Til all success be nobleness and every gain divine.

Oh beautiful for Patriot's dream that sees beyond the years,
Thine alabaster cities gleam, undimmed by human tears.
AMERICA! AMERICA!
God shed his grace on thee
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea.

verses 3&4 America the Beautiful

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

You Wouldn't Want To Be....


This book by David Stewart and David Salariya is one of our favorite books. It cracks me up! It is full of wonderful facts and humor- especially the weird and disgusting. For example, on the page where you are learning about the gross procedures to mummification, a dog can be seen in the background running away with an arm in it's mouth.
There are a bunch of them from a sailor with Christopher Columbus to Vikings to Aztec human sacrifices. We check them out from the library over and over again. If you haven't read them yet, go to the library now! you won't be disappointed.
*p.s.- today is the last day for my little game so I will be getting back on the winners and stuff shortly.

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Did ya hear the one.....

Riley told me this joke yesterday:

What did Dela*ware to the Ball????

I*da*ho??? Al*ask*a!

She learned at class shes taking about the States. I thought it was a good one ;)
My kids love to tell jokes. They always make up their own that are complete nonsense but some how still hilarious. I'm always glad when I get a real (and actually funny) one.
Do you have a good one?

Monday, September 8, 2008

Granola

On Friday, the girls and I had a baking day. One of the items we made was granola. I love granola and this is my favorite recipe. I got the recipe from my sister EMM.

Mix:
6 cups oats (rolled or old fashion)
1/2 cup wheat germ
1/2 cup coconut
1/2 cup powdered milk

Mix and then add to dry mixture:
2/3 cup honey
2/3 cup oil
1 tsp vanilla.

When the mixture is well combined spread on 2 baking sheets that have been sprayed with cooing spray. Bake at 350F for 10 to 15 minutes. the granola will be golden brown. When it has completely cooled you can break it up. Store it in an airtight container.

My Variations:
I sprinkle the top of the granola with cinnamon prior to baking. After it is cooled I mix in almonds and craisins for cereal or m&ms and nuts for a snack. Also, this time I didn't have any wheat germ so I used 1/4 cup ground Flax instead and it worked just as well.

Sunday, September 7, 2008

Happy 1st Blog-versary to me!

Hooray! I made it one whole year of blogging. I started blogging because a couple of my friends had started one and it seemed like it met all the needs I wanted out of my myspace page that I wasn't getting. It also has been a fun way to feel like I'm keeping a journal.
I have loved getting to share my daily life with my family and friends who live so far and some who are close. I have enjoyed being able to share our fun and my thoughts and feelings.
So for my blog-versary I have set a couple goals for myself. I will blog everyday even if it is just a random nothing. I want to increase my readership but 10%. This is where you come in. I want you to post a link on your blog of your favorite post of mine or something you think your readers would like about me. I'm looking to make new friends and find some old.
I will check everyone on my favorites list to see who played and have a drawing. I don't have a prize to show or woo you with because I want it to be tailored to the winner. Ill close my contest on WED. the 10th.
So here is to another year and many more to come! Thanks for reading and being apart of my life. I look forward to sharing more time with all my blogging buddies out there no matter how near or far you are.
Have a good Sabbath.

Saturday, September 6, 2008

Basement Bowling

We had a good time the other night bowling in our basement on our PS3. It is fun game that Garin downloaded that allows you to 'bowl' with the controller. We all love it and it is easy enough for everyone to play competitively. Riley won the night with a score of 157 but even Olivia who had the lowest score still got a 91.
Rockin' to Starlight by Muse, everyone's favorite song. Our toothless wonder.




Here is a video of Claire having a good time, sorry it is a little dark.

Friday, September 5, 2008

Bingham Canyon Copper Mine

Last Saturday we took a trip to the Bingham Canyon Copper mine. Garin works on a Kid's club magazine for the company he works for. His page this time is on big stuff and this is the perfect place to see big 'Stuff'! (Don't you love Amellia's shoes and socks! Her fashion sense cracks me up sometimes!)
The mine is the largest man made excavation in the world and can be seen from space! The size of it is almost unbelievable. My picture doesn't do it justice so click here! This mine has produced 17 million tons of copper and they plan to continue mine well into the future. It is deep enough that you could stack 2 Sears towers on top of each other in it and still not reach the top. If you have time to read or browse here is some more interesting information.
This is a tire of the trucks that hall the debris out of the pit to be processed. Each tire on these big trucks costs from $18,000 to $26,000 and lasts just 9 months.
These trucks are 23 ft tall and can hall 255-320 tons of rock! The shovels that load these bad boys can scoop 98 tons at a time. And when they are down in the pit they look like little toys.
Besides the pit they have an interesting museum as well at the visitor center. This is definitely a great place to take some time and visit.

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Drumroll please...

Okay so you've been down the 'road I travel', now look at us 'through my eyes'. There are a few little changes I want to make still. I hope you will enjoy another reading year with me. My official 1 year is on Sunday so be looking for that and some posts I've been meaning to get up as well. Let me know what you think and what you'd like to read more of on my blog. I'm looking for any suggestions. Have a nice day!

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Next week..

will be my one year blog-iversary. Ill have a new look. And Ill need a lttle of your help. Keep your eyes open.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008



Bright and early on the 21st of August we headed up north to Bear Lake. It is about a 3 hour drive not to mention what ever stops have to be made. We couldn't check in until 3pm so to make the most of the day we stopped at Tony Grove about 30 miles outside of Logan, Utah and went on a small nature hike. It is a beautiful little spot,one I would like to visit again. The kids had a great time though there wasn't much more than cows to see because they were all to noisy with excitement.

Bear Lake straddles the border of Utah and Idaho. It is a beautiful blue color because of the minerals in it. The water is so clear and blue that you can see down pretty deep into it. The beaches are soft sand. If you didn't know better you would think you were on an island beach. While many parts of the lake are very deep, the shores are shallow. We had to walk pretty far before it even was to our waist. This made it nice to not have to worry so much about the kids. They loved every minute of it.
When we first arrived at our camping spot it was impossible to keep them from the beach. Our spot was a quick five minute walk to the shore and they remembered that from last year. They were all sad they couldn't get in that day. They made up for it the next day spending 7 hours of pure joy in the mud, sun and water. Now the high for the day was about 77-78 and the water temp is about 68. I didn't even take my sweater off until afternoon. They didn't care and barely complained about being cold.
Olivia washed her head in the mud for about an hour. A couple of time I just had to make sure hadn't fallen asleep. Everyone just really enjoyed a relaxing day.
That night we celebrated Garin's birthday with some dutch oven peach cobbler and later hot cocoa and an amazing view of the milky way.
Of course with kids it wasn't all peaches and cream. I was proud of how well they went to bed every night because they were exhausted. My kids never go to bed. But there was plenty of dirty messes and crazy behavior. Our friends had to make a trip to the medical clinic because their 3 yr old shoved a shell up his nose. And clean up lasted a little too long for their patience. But overall they were good and we all had a great time.
On the way home we stopped at the Gossner's cheese factory in Logan. A place that the Free's loved to go to when they lived there. We got yummy samples, great deals on cheese and ice cream. Then we made the long trip home and back to reality.

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

I should be packing right now but I'm procrastinating. Its probably because our fridge finally came today and I am so excited but....it won't fit!!! thanks to a crooked wall. We have to remove part of the door frame to get it in and because we are leaving tomorrow and my hubby will not be home at a decent hour today I have a beautiful, working fridge right in the middle of my already cramped kitchen. In fact to get to my laundry room I have to use the garage. Soooo anyway I'm not really complaining because it is very nice to have this modern day convenience back in my life, I'm just, well... *sigh*

Have a nice weekend! We will, relaxing at the Caribbean of the Rockies.

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Happy Birthday Riley

So this post is a little late, Riley's 9th birthday was on the 5th of Aug. I've been waiting to post about it because for a birthday present this year Riley and Amellia (who's birthday is in a few weeks) got their bedroom decorated. It took us a few weeks to get it finished.

To celebrate Riley's birthday we went to see 'Journey to the Center of the Earth'. That is a really fun movie! We had a good time. The next day we had cake and Grammy and Grandpa over for dinner. She also got a package from Marme and Papaw with the movie 'Nancy Drew' in it. This is the current favorite and she loves the Nancy Drew books as well.

Riley and Amellia have been wanting a 'Francais' room for a while now. Finally we found just the right set to inspire the room. My friend Gretchen and I (and baby Jack) worked hard at painting the walls and furniture.

It was taking us along time with all the kids and distractions so last Saturday Garin and I just busted it out and had an Extreme Home Makeover style reveal for them- complete with screaming. We are all happy with how it turned out.




Around the top of the room is a french translation of the first line or two of the poem 'How Do I Love Thee?' By Elizabeth Barrett Browning.

Thursday, August 14, 2008

Happy Anniversary to us!




10 years today, we were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple. Beautiful memories from a beautiful day. We celebrated our anniversary big last year because we thought we would have a little one this year. Needless to say that is not the case and so we are having a quiet little night with dinner and a movie while our kiddos hang out with our wonderful friends *thanks Free fam*. We like to take a picture of our family on our anniversary so I will add that to the post after this evening.
Just for a bit of interesting info- the traditional gift for a 10 year anniversary is Tin or Aluminium. Sounds a little weird until you hear the symbolism. Tin and Aluminum are malleable metals, they serve to remind us that we should be flexible in our marriage and that even though somethings may get bent it doesn't mean they are broken or beyond repair. For this year we are going to get a little tin box and make a time capsule to be opened on our 50th anniversary. When it is put together I'll post how it turns out.

Saturday, August 9, 2008

GRRRR

My refrigerator died to today!! We went and ordered a new one and it won't be here until the 20th. We begged them to sell us the floor model. It is very frustrating to think that I will be living out of coolers for the next two weeks. Our frig will arrive the day before we go on a camping trip to Bear Lake- just in time to keep living out of coolers.
*sigh*

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

If you have not read Breaking Dawn, this post isn't for you.

It was breaking dawn when I finished this book this morning. I'd been counting the days to its release. Now I think I'm almost in shock, I'm going to have to read it again. It was certainly nothing I expected. I liked it but I'm not sure it is my favorite of the 4, but a good read for sure. My favorite part of the book aside from always Edward was Renesmee (I'm so glad Bella sounded it out for us). I haven't been a fan of Jacob's but he redeemed himself to me in this book. I do not like Bella as a vampire. While she whine's a lot less it gets boring when she isn't needing to be saved as much. What did you love or hate?????

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Roasted Red Pepper Dip

I love this dip! It is so yummy! I hope you like it as much as we do.

1 jar of roasted red peppers
2 bricks of cream cheese
1 pkt of ranch dip

Soften cream cheese. Drain roasted red peppers and puree. Combine all ingredients in a bowl. It is better when it has set over night. Warm and serve with a sliced bagette.
* for quick dinner you can use this as a pasta sauce. Add diced cooked chicken and a little milk to thin it out. Then add spinach (opt) and your favorite pasta.

Sunday, July 20, 2008

Take a minute to reminisce...

This is a fun little post I got from Shaina. Have fun.

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you. If you don't want to play on your blog, or if you don't have a blog, I'll leave my memory of you in my comments.

What flavor am I?



You're Vanilla.
You're as popular and relaxing as vanilla ice cream. You go with the flow, and get along with all sorts of people. You appreciate peace and simplicity, so you sometimes find crowds and loud noises overwhelming. You are a chilled-out, calming influence on the people in your life, and your friends appreciate how supportive and flexible you are.

What flavor are you?

**thanks to Shaina for the fun quiz.

Friday, July 18, 2008

Scentsy


Have your tried scentsy? They are an awesome alternative to candles. I love their scents! I love Skinny Dippin', Lime Sublime, Coconut Lemongrass, Toasted Apple Butter, the list could go on. **If only the computer had smell-a-vision** If you want to find out more about them you can visit SCENTSY. I'm having a party on Saturday the 19th. If you like what you see your can order from this LINK using my party or you can email me at garinsgirlforever@gmail.com with your info and we'll get you set up.

Thursday, July 17, 2008

I'm giddy with anticipation!!!



and December is still so far away...


Friday, July 11, 2008





So here is a slide show of some highlights from our trip. You can scroll over the pictures for captions. We had lots of fun playing. Garin and I went to lunch and a small farmer's market the day he arrived. Besides all the places we went while we were there, the kids had lots of fun playing in water and such in the backyard and playing games and doing puzzles. Max came too and he loved having the freedom of the backyard as well, he has been a little sad since hes been home with less freedom. We did have a few days down because Amellia got sick (poor little thing). She was so sad because everyone was eating ice cream and she couldn't. One game we was a memory game that all the cards are different kinds of candy. One of the nights Amellia was sick she was hallucinating about the candy in the game and it was making her nauseated. I felt bad for her but it was so funny too.
We took a geology tour the day before we left that was pretty cool, Riley and I love rocks. Finally all the girls except Amellia came home with the chicken pox! I think that is why Amellia was sick. As of last night poor Garin has them now too.
So now were are back at home sweet home and we're slowly getting back into a routine.