Fabulous Fall Day...

I was very lucky to spend the day with my Mom and my Sister and some of her kids on Saturday. It is such a treat because I don't get to see them very often. My Sister is 10 years younger than me, and so full of life. Her 6 kids run her ragged, she runs two businesses and still does it all with a smile. I miss her so much and cherish the times we get to spend together. We spent the day at a craft boutique in Ogden and got to visit a wayside market. They sell dried wreathes and pumpkins. The owner was quite a character and he kept the kids entertained. It was a special day and we all had a grand time. Thanks Mom and Kari for a fabulous day.
The kids has a blast exploring all the barns, and they even found kittens to cuddle and love.

Favorite Quotes by Pres. Uchtdorf

I found these quotes by President Uchtdorf and I loved them, I hope you enjoy as well...

"The number of prayers we say may contribute to our happiness, but the number of prayers we answer may be of even greater importance. Let us open our eyes and see the heavy hearts, notice the loneliness and despair, let us feel the silent prayers of others around us, and let us be an instrument in the hands of the Lord to answer those prayers."

"I believe that as you immerse yourselves in the work of our Father, as you create beauty, and as you are compassionate to others, God will encircle you in the arms of His love. Discouragement, inadequacy, and worry-ness will give way to a life of meaning, grace, and fulfillment. As spirit daughters of our Heavenly Father, happiness is your heritage."

"You are choice daughters of our Heavenly Father, and through the things you create and by your compassionate service, you are a great power for good. You will make the world a better place!"

My new mantra: "Lift up your chin! Walk tall! God loves you!"

Homecoming Dance

Look at my beautiful daughter and her handsome date, looking fabulous on the night of Homecoming. I am so proud of her and the choices she makes. He is just a friend, and they had a grand time. They spent all day with crazy friends and exhausted themselves, to the point that the young man who was doing the driving fell asleep instead of getting ready for the dance, and made them all late. But, they had a great time despite the late arrival. They all came back to our house for ice cream after the dance, and it was LOUD, but they all had fun. Way to go Jalyssa, you Rock, and we love you!

Ever had one of those Friends....

This post is dedicated to...One of those Friends who sometimes knows you better than you know yourself. My friend Gillian is one of those. She always knows what I need before I even say it. She must have one of those sixth senses. I am so indebted to her, it will take all eternity to repay her for all her kindnesses to me and my family. I am so lucky to have her in my life, talk about a blessing. She runs me places, she shops for me, she helps my kids with homework, she feeds me, she buys me candy, and she even texts me when she is on a romantic weekend with her Husband. (Sorry, Bill) I am very blessed to have her as Visiting Teacher, but this woman goes beyond all realms. You know, sometimes when you pray for something the Lord really blesses you beyond measure, and this is a friend that I have needed for a very long time. I want her to know how much I love her and it is not possible with words tell her how much I appreciate what she does for me. My entire Family is blessed for service. So now the world knows how incredible you are, and I am happy to tell them.You emulate the pure love of Christ, and I am sooo lucky to be one of your Friends. I know many people who feel the same way about you, and they are very lucky too. I am not alone in this, you treat everyone special. That is just who you are. We are all so blessed to be your friends. Thank you for ALL you do. Never forget you are loved and appreciated!!!

Jalyssa and Mariah, Best Friends? 95% of the time.

Me and Jalyssa sharing the love...

Jalyssa excited on her "18th" Birthday!

Jalyssa turns "18"

Well, the day has finally come. My first baby girl turned 18 years old, and she is absolutely amazing. I could not be any prouder of the fine young woman she has become. Her Father and I have done a fabulous job, if we say so ourselves. She has been so easy and a real treasure in our lives. Everyone loves her and her infectious smile lights up a room. She was so tiny when she was born and I was afraid I would break her. She was the easiest baby and never any trouble. Of course she was spoiled rotten by her Grandma D. And she was the first granddaughter on both sides of the family. She was loved by all her aunties and especially by her big brother Denver.
Now she is a senior, and looking toward college with anticipaton. It seems like only yesterday we brought her home from the hospital. She is such an amazing woman, and my hero in so many ways. She has overcome so many things and never lets anything stop her. We do not dare tell her she can't do something, because she will turn around and do exactly that. People are drawn to her amazing attitude and determination. I know she will accomplish so much in her future and she will have an influence on more people than she will ever realize. I am so lucky to be her Mother and love her more than words can say. I wish her well and cheers to an exciting future.

Speculation...

Have you ever received one of those dreaded phone calls from the Stake Executive Secretary? Who calmly tells you a member of the Stake Presidency would like to meet with you. Luckily they asked to speak to my Husband, yikes, "and please bring your wife". This was not looking good. And so now the speculation begins... Your mind starts automatically flipping thru the Ward auxiliaries. Who has been in a long time, who might be moving, who wants to be released, what are they thinking?
Our friends knew we had the appt. and were anxious to speculate as well. So, we know we need a YM's Presidency; No, too much commitment. High Priest group leader; No; too young (in our minds). Elders; No, already a High Priest. We honestly had no specific feelings, (super scary). Why is it that we always want to dissect it, until we drive ourselves crazy! Oh well...then the call is extended...and your shocked and pleased all at the same time. So much for speculation. Now comes the really hard part; keeping it from everyone til the Sunday comes and it is announced over the pulpit. We have told some people, like family (not our kids). They can wait, so will other people, HEE HEE! Speculation is a funny thing, we all think we are so "in the know" and really we have no idea. I guess we just like to be creative and try and solve the riddles in life. Maybe we should just live one day at a time and don't worry about what is around the corner. Enjoy today and don't live for tomorrows they never come. P.S. If you really want to know, I'll see you Sunday and we will all have a good laugh!