2 posts within 8 days, *GASP*! My tree went up, YAY! More exciting though, is that I got the best Christmas present ever on Tuesday from my favourite crazy. I gave her the present I'd bought for her back in October, because I wanted her to be able to enjoy it all winter (she'd become used to mild Pacific coast winters). I had bought her a Gryffindor scarf, which matches the one I've had for almost 7 years now. I'd mentioned in passing that night that one day I'd love to have a Weasley sweater or a Ravenclaw scarf. (If you don't know your Harry Potter, I apologize for the confused expression on your face at this point) Anyway, so we went out for a late meal on Tuesday after I was done Young Women and she handed me a wrapped box. Inside was a Ravenclaw scarf that she knit for me herself. It's special because 1) I'm a Ravenclaw at heart, 2) It was knit just for me, 3) It was knit by my bestest friend who is practically my sister, and 4) I know it took her a lot of time to make it and she is NOT someone who has a lot of spare time, which means she has been using a lot of the little amount of it that she has making something just for me. I feel so special and loved! So I just wanted to share that little story and make sure I have it documented for my own sake. Happy Christmas season!
Also, it came with a card which my adorable 2 year old 'niece' insisted on drawing a picture inside of for me because she loves her 'Aunt' Nikki.
The goings on of our geeky little family and the musings and soapbox moments of the lone female in the group.
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
I Do Still Exist...
I'll be honest. I'm mostly posting just because I feel like I should, since I've had 2 posts in the past 2 months.
I kind of feel like I've been owned by my calling for the past few months. Between a trip to the Calgary Temple open house, a plethora of weekend meetings, Young Women in Excellence and extra activities beyond the normal Tuesday ones. I was kind of hoping for a break this month after all of that, instead I'm busy getting ready to train my new class presidency and get us all ready for the new youth curriculum starting in January (which I'm beyond excited for, by the way). Oh well, it's okay that I'm busy because I really do love my calling. My former class president turned 14 two weeks ago and finished her Young Womanhood Recognition requirements the night before. It's things like her getting her certificate and medallion that remind me why I love my calling so much. I was so happy for her and impressed with her accomplishment.
My tree still isn't up, which is a huge deal for me. Normally I struggle to wait until December to put it up. In my defense, though, I ended up sick on Monday night and the kids were super cranky and that's why it didn't go up. Tonight, though, before I race off to a presidency meeting (see what I mean about being owned?). I haven't felt as passionate about Christmas this year and it feels so odd. I LOVE Christmas and I'm usually bouncing all over the place this time of the year. I'm not even done my Christmas shopping yet...*gasp* I am, however, really looking forward to having John at home with us for a week and a half and to not having to travel anywhere this year. I'm excited to be able to wake up in my own bed on Christmas morning and to do things on my own schedule.
Bretts is walking quite well now and has actually started conversing a bit, which was HUGE progress for him. I'm a lot less worried about his delay now. Ty is still my crazy man who entertains us all of the time. Caleb loves grade 1 and is doing well with learning to read and to play piano. We were looking at girl clothes the other day at Walmart and he thought a pink onesie and pink leggings would look good together. They didn't, so I said "You don't know anything about fashion, do you?" to which he replied "I don't know about fashion, but I know a lot about women". I have NEVER laughed so loud in a store before, ha ha.
Oh, and about 2 weeks ago I gave up Dr Pepper for the next year or so...First and foremost, because drinking a minimum of 2 bottles of it per day is kind of an issue and I didn't like feeling so dependent on it. Second, because I'm trying to get my body into a healthier state for when it's time for Baby Bly #4. I still miss it, mostly because I miss drinking something with flavour, but I told myself that once I make it to the end of the month without having any that I can get a new pair of jeans, so that's my extra motivation right now.
There are a few other things going on, but I'm sure you don't want ALL of my dirty laundry aired, ha ha. So yeah, I'm still here, and I'm still checking blogs a couple of times a week. I just don't feel like I have a lot to say lately, I guess.
Have a wonderful Christmas season!
I kind of feel like I've been owned by my calling for the past few months. Between a trip to the Calgary Temple open house, a plethora of weekend meetings, Young Women in Excellence and extra activities beyond the normal Tuesday ones. I was kind of hoping for a break this month after all of that, instead I'm busy getting ready to train my new class presidency and get us all ready for the new youth curriculum starting in January (which I'm beyond excited for, by the way). Oh well, it's okay that I'm busy because I really do love my calling. My former class president turned 14 two weeks ago and finished her Young Womanhood Recognition requirements the night before. It's things like her getting her certificate and medallion that remind me why I love my calling so much. I was so happy for her and impressed with her accomplishment.
My tree still isn't up, which is a huge deal for me. Normally I struggle to wait until December to put it up. In my defense, though, I ended up sick on Monday night and the kids were super cranky and that's why it didn't go up. Tonight, though, before I race off to a presidency meeting (see what I mean about being owned?). I haven't felt as passionate about Christmas this year and it feels so odd. I LOVE Christmas and I'm usually bouncing all over the place this time of the year. I'm not even done my Christmas shopping yet...*gasp* I am, however, really looking forward to having John at home with us for a week and a half and to not having to travel anywhere this year. I'm excited to be able to wake up in my own bed on Christmas morning and to do things on my own schedule.
Bretts is walking quite well now and has actually started conversing a bit, which was HUGE progress for him. I'm a lot less worried about his delay now. Ty is still my crazy man who entertains us all of the time. Caleb loves grade 1 and is doing well with learning to read and to play piano. We were looking at girl clothes the other day at Walmart and he thought a pink onesie and pink leggings would look good together. They didn't, so I said "You don't know anything about fashion, do you?" to which he replied "I don't know about fashion, but I know a lot about women". I have NEVER laughed so loud in a store before, ha ha.
Oh, and about 2 weeks ago I gave up Dr Pepper for the next year or so...First and foremost, because drinking a minimum of 2 bottles of it per day is kind of an issue and I didn't like feeling so dependent on it. Second, because I'm trying to get my body into a healthier state for when it's time for Baby Bly #4. I still miss it, mostly because I miss drinking something with flavour, but I told myself that once I make it to the end of the month without having any that I can get a new pair of jeans, so that's my extra motivation right now.
There are a few other things going on, but I'm sure you don't want ALL of my dirty laundry aired, ha ha. So yeah, I'm still here, and I'm still checking blogs a couple of times a week. I just don't feel like I have a lot to say lately, I guess.
Have a wonderful Christmas season!
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Honor Bee = Check!
I finished my Honor Bee requirements this morning. After completing Personal Progress, you can elect to earn an Honor Bee. To do this you need to read the Book of Mormon again and do 40 hours of service. At least a portion of that service has to be helping a Young Woman with her Personal Progress. I finished both my Personal Progress and my Honor Bee within less than 14 months, which I'm really happy about. I'm excited to go and start Personal Progress all over again now. I love my calling so much and am so grateful for the chance that I have to serve the amazing girls in my ward.
Friday, October 5, 2012
28 Things...
I decided about a month ago that on my 28th birthday that I would post 28 random things about myself. I apologize in advance for any typos as I'm doing this from my phone since my desktop is at the doctor's.
1) If I could learn three things it would be how to dance, how to play piano and how to box on a punching bag properly.
2) I would give a whole lot to be able to sing even remotely well. This, however, I don't feel is something that can just be learned and is simply a gift that I don't have.
3) I wish I'd pursued acting. It was something a few of my teachers over the years thought I'd be great at, but I never did much with it for some reason.
4) I'm a chronic joint cracker, but I try not to do it around other people because I know some people are disgusted by it.
5) I am a people pleaser. John thinks this is more to my detriment than anything else. I bottle a lot trying to keep others happy.
6) I'd also be interested in learning how to make my own jewelry.
7) I was on a med at the age of 14 for a month that gave me lasting problems of my pupils dilating too much. It causes a fair few headaches.
8) I love Booster Juice with a passion.
9) I miss my father-in-law far more than I let on.
10) The smells of canned or juiced pineapple instantly makes me nauseous. I try to simplify things and just say I'm allergic, but I'm highly sensitive to it and it's not pleasant.
11) Any day that combines Dr Pepper and bacon is a winning day in my book.
12) I'm a geek at heart and love being given opportunities to geek out.
13) I love having impromptu dance parties with my boys.
14) My birthday always falls on the same day of the week that year as my mum and my brother. This year we had Friday birthdays.
15) I'd love to have a stylist to work with that could help me find a fashion style that suits my personality and my body type.
16) I'm a huge fan of The Olive Garden and The Old Spaghetti Factory.
17) Caleb and I sang a song together a couple of weeks ago and it was an incredibly special experience that he's chosen to make a daily ritual.
18) I am a planner. I love planning out everything, even vacations I'd never be able to actually take. I just find the process enjoyable.
19) I did the whole Personal Progress program in 8 months (give or take a few days).
20) 1/6 of the music on my phone is by Glee Cast. It's seldom that I like the original better.
21) I sleep better if there's music playing quietly the whole night.
22) I love hugs!
23) I love the Christmas season and have a hard time waiting to decorate, but I refuse to decorate before November12th.
24) I love playing outside in the rain. I find it very refreshing.
25) I'm scared of the dark and sleep with the light on when John's not with me.
26) If I were to go to school I have absolutely no idea what kind of course I would want to take.
27) I still occasionally miss my eyebrow piercing, even though I'd never have it redone.
28) I seriously have some of the greatest people in my life and I'm beyond grateful for them.
Happy 28th birthday to me!
1) If I could learn three things it would be how to dance, how to play piano and how to box on a punching bag properly.
2) I would give a whole lot to be able to sing even remotely well. This, however, I don't feel is something that can just be learned and is simply a gift that I don't have.
3) I wish I'd pursued acting. It was something a few of my teachers over the years thought I'd be great at, but I never did much with it for some reason.
4) I'm a chronic joint cracker, but I try not to do it around other people because I know some people are disgusted by it.
5) I am a people pleaser. John thinks this is more to my detriment than anything else. I bottle a lot trying to keep others happy.
6) I'd also be interested in learning how to make my own jewelry.
7) I was on a med at the age of 14 for a month that gave me lasting problems of my pupils dilating too much. It causes a fair few headaches.
8) I love Booster Juice with a passion.
9) I miss my father-in-law far more than I let on.
10) The smells of canned or juiced pineapple instantly makes me nauseous. I try to simplify things and just say I'm allergic, but I'm highly sensitive to it and it's not pleasant.
11) Any day that combines Dr Pepper and bacon is a winning day in my book.
12) I'm a geek at heart and love being given opportunities to geek out.
13) I love having impromptu dance parties with my boys.
14) My birthday always falls on the same day of the week that year as my mum and my brother. This year we had Friday birthdays.
15) I'd love to have a stylist to work with that could help me find a fashion style that suits my personality and my body type.
16) I'm a huge fan of The Olive Garden and The Old Spaghetti Factory.
17) Caleb and I sang a song together a couple of weeks ago and it was an incredibly special experience that he's chosen to make a daily ritual.
18) I am a planner. I love planning out everything, even vacations I'd never be able to actually take. I just find the process enjoyable.
19) I did the whole Personal Progress program in 8 months (give or take a few days).
20) 1/6 of the music on my phone is by Glee Cast. It's seldom that I like the original better.
21) I sleep better if there's music playing quietly the whole night.
22) I love hugs!
23) I love the Christmas season and have a hard time waiting to decorate, but I refuse to decorate before November12th.
24) I love playing outside in the rain. I find it very refreshing.
25) I'm scared of the dark and sleep with the light on when John's not with me.
26) If I were to go to school I have absolutely no idea what kind of course I would want to take.
27) I still occasionally miss my eyebrow piercing, even though I'd never have it redone.
28) I seriously have some of the greatest people in my life and I'm beyond grateful for them.
Happy 28th birthday to me!
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Most Productive Dessert Date Ever
This is an extremely heavy post that I'm doing solely for my own benefit. I had a friend ask me out for dessert on Wednesday. She knew something was wrong with me (cause she's amazing) and called me out on it. I broke down and a whole lot came out about what I've been struggling with. One of those things was a man who 20 years ago broke my self esteem and it hasn't been repaired since. My friend was the first person in the whole 20 years to look my straight in the eyes and say "He was wrong, Nikki. He was wrong." I don't want to go into a lot of details about what happened because there are other people involved in the story that I don't want to talk about in this situation, but I've been carrying an obscene amount of baggage because of this man and it felt so good to FINALLY have someone tell me straight up that he was wrong.
She also said something that I've kind of replayed in my head a lot since. We were talking about how I don't know how to see good in myself and how I can only see my flaws due to my self esteem issues. She said "I wish that you could see yourself the way I see you" and went on to tell me some of the things she really appreciates about me that I don't recognize in myself.
When she asked me out for dessert, I don't think she knew that I was going to start deeply searching and trying to change a huge thing in my life after. I think we just missed hanging out with each other (cause she's the Harry to my Ron). I also know that there's no way she could have known when she asked "How are you doing, really?" just how much was going to come out. It's amazing, though, how much difference one person with a kind a sincere heart can make. I've been grateful for a while now that Heavenly Father brought her into my life, but now that gratitude is beyond words. I am so thankful that He has blessed me with her friendship at this time and has given me a friend who realizes just how much I need someone to help me feel like I'm of worth.
I guess the point I wanted to make, other than having these important things recorded for me to go back to, was to never underestimate what you could end up meaning to someone else just by caring about them.
She also said something that I've kind of replayed in my head a lot since. We were talking about how I don't know how to see good in myself and how I can only see my flaws due to my self esteem issues. She said "I wish that you could see yourself the way I see you" and went on to tell me some of the things she really appreciates about me that I don't recognize in myself.
When she asked me out for dessert, I don't think she knew that I was going to start deeply searching and trying to change a huge thing in my life after. I think we just missed hanging out with each other (cause she's the Harry to my Ron). I also know that there's no way she could have known when she asked "How are you doing, really?" just how much was going to come out. It's amazing, though, how much difference one person with a kind a sincere heart can make. I've been grateful for a while now that Heavenly Father brought her into my life, but now that gratitude is beyond words. I am so thankful that He has blessed me with her friendship at this time and has given me a friend who realizes just how much I need someone to help me feel like I'm of worth.
I guess the point I wanted to make, other than having these important things recorded for me to go back to, was to never underestimate what you could end up meaning to someone else just by caring about them.
Monday, September 17, 2012
I'll Pretend You Didn't Just Say That
Brettley had an appointment with his opthalmologist this morning. We had assumed we'd be getting a date for his second surgery. Instead we're getting sent for an MRI. When John texted that to me, my body just kind of froze and I wanted to pretend that I hadn't just read that. In the back of my mind I've known for a long time that at some point we were going to have to have one. He's 8 months behind in a lot of developmental areas and his eyes reverted back a lot more after the surgery than the doctor had expected. Therefore, we need to know if there's an underlying factor behind all of this, which his pediatrician considered earlier in the year as well. I'm terrified. About what this could mean for Brett, and for all of us as a family. It's been a pretty stressful day and I'm really grateful that I will have a chance to go to the temple tomorrow evening with the youth and find the peace that comes when I'm in the temple. I can't imagine handling any of this without the gospel in my life. I'm so grateful for it.
Monday, September 10, 2012
L Got Baptized
L was baptized on Saturday. Over 8 years ago I knew that one of the reasons I made the decision that I did was so that when she turned 8, she could be baptized by her dad, which is exactly what happened. No matter how much it has hurt at times through the past 8 years, I know in my heart that the experience she had this weekend is exactly what I wanted for her when I did the most difficult thing I've ever done in my life. She is amazing, her parents are amazing and they deserve all of the happiness in the world.
I know that D is a man that respects the priesthood he holds. I've felt it as he placed his hands on my head the day I placed L in C's arms when he gave me a blessing that I've thought back on many times. I'm so grateful that she is being raised in a home with such a wonderful father and priesthood holder and by a mother that is so awesome that I can't even put it all in to words. The love and gratitude that I have for C is beyond description and she will never fully know how much I admire her. When it comes down to it, I think these feelings are what adoption should really be about. I don't feel resentment, I feel love and admiration. I feel gratitude beyond anything I can ever express. These 3 people hold a special place in my heart that I go to at least once every day. I am so proud of L for making the choice to be baptized. That beautiful girl never fails to make me grateful to have had a hand in bringing her here to share her life with such an amazing family.
I know that D is a man that respects the priesthood he holds. I've felt it as he placed his hands on my head the day I placed L in C's arms when he gave me a blessing that I've thought back on many times. I'm so grateful that she is being raised in a home with such a wonderful father and priesthood holder and by a mother that is so awesome that I can't even put it all in to words. The love and gratitude that I have for C is beyond description and she will never fully know how much I admire her. When it comes down to it, I think these feelings are what adoption should really be about. I don't feel resentment, I feel love and admiration. I feel gratitude beyond anything I can ever express. These 3 people hold a special place in my heart that I go to at least once every day. I am so proud of L for making the choice to be baptized. That beautiful girl never fails to make me grateful to have had a hand in bringing her here to share her life with such an amazing family.
Friday, September 7, 2012
Post 2: It's About Me
I decided to do one of those quiz things just to add some fun facts about myself on here, since it is my blog and all...
WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? My middle name is also the middle name of both of my grandmothers
WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? Wednesday night I had a full out cry but ended up getting a lot out of it.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Roasted Turkey or Honey Ham. Also, I hate bologna with a passion.
DO YOU HAVE KIDS? Yes, I have 3. (Caleb is almost 6, Ty is almost 4 and Brett is about 19 months)
IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON, WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Yes and no. I come with a lot of baggage that can be frustrating, but I'm an extremely loyal friend and I love to listen.
DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? I tend to be an extremely sarcastic person. Witty sarcasm is my favourite kind of humour.
DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? I don't. They came out right before I turned 10 and should have been out YEARS before that.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? I don't eat a lot of cereal, but I love things like Quaker Harvest Crunch and Honey Bunches of Oats.
DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Only if I need to in order to get them off of my foot.
DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Physically, no. Emotionally this is a frustrating thing for me because I've had to do things that make people think that I'm strong (and I hate people telling me that I am), but I personally don't feel that I am.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? I love Haggen Daaz Cookie Dough Dynamo, the PC brand of Cotton Candy and Marble Slab's Cheesecake.
WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? I notice shoes a lot, actually. And hair.
WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? Physically, my underdeveloped chin (which is a VERY sore spot with me after years and years of teasing). As a whole, I'd have to say my bipolar.
WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? My father-in-law, who passed away in March and was one of the most amazing people I've ever met.
WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE? Eggs
WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? Dora the Explorer that Ty is watching.
IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Pink
FAVORITE SMELLS? Lilacs, vanilla and cinnamon.
FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH? Hockey, Soccer and Curling
HAIR COLOR? My hair is, medium brown? I think...
EYE COLOR? Fun cause I recently learned a term for this. It's Glasz. My eye color changes all the time between blue, green, grey and even a bit of yellow on occasion. Today they are a bluish grey.
DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? No, but I am trying to wear my glasses more.
FAVORITE FOOD? I like a good lasagna or chicken parmesan.
LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? The Hunger Games
FAVORITE SEASON? I think it's a tie between spring and fall.
FAVORITE DESSERT? Either cheesecake or sticky toffee pudding.
COMPUTER OR TELEVISION? I use my phone or computer for most things, including Netflix.
WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? I just finished The Land of Stories: The Wishing Spell by Chris Colfer. Today I'm starting Fishers of Men by Gerald N Lund.
FAVORITE SOUND? Running water (river, rain...) or just a good song
WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? Nova Scotia for distance, Utah for out of country.
DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? I'm really good at planning things out in detail. Execution is another story.
WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Nova Scotia, Canada
WHERE ARE YOU LIVING NOW? Alberta, Canada
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK? So everyone's expecting a Harry Potter book, right? I'd have to say, though that Behold The Man by Gerald N Lund is my favorite.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE? Again, it's not HP. My favorite movie is Lord of the Rings: Return of the King (the extended version).
WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? My middle name is also the middle name of both of my grandmothers
WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? Wednesday night I had a full out cry but ended up getting a lot out of it.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Roasted Turkey or Honey Ham. Also, I hate bologna with a passion.
DO YOU HAVE KIDS? Yes, I have 3. (Caleb is almost 6, Ty is almost 4 and Brett is about 19 months)
IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON, WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Yes and no. I come with a lot of baggage that can be frustrating, but I'm an extremely loyal friend and I love to listen.
DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? I tend to be an extremely sarcastic person. Witty sarcasm is my favourite kind of humour.
DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? I don't. They came out right before I turned 10 and should have been out YEARS before that.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? I don't eat a lot of cereal, but I love things like Quaker Harvest Crunch and Honey Bunches of Oats.
DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Only if I need to in order to get them off of my foot.
DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Physically, no. Emotionally this is a frustrating thing for me because I've had to do things that make people think that I'm strong (and I hate people telling me that I am), but I personally don't feel that I am.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? I love Haggen Daaz Cookie Dough Dynamo, the PC brand of Cotton Candy and Marble Slab's Cheesecake.
WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? I notice shoes a lot, actually. And hair.
WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? Physically, my underdeveloped chin (which is a VERY sore spot with me after years and years of teasing). As a whole, I'd have to say my bipolar.
WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? My father-in-law, who passed away in March and was one of the most amazing people I've ever met.
WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE? Eggs
WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? Dora the Explorer that Ty is watching.
IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Pink
FAVORITE SMELLS? Lilacs, vanilla and cinnamon.
FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH? Hockey, Soccer and Curling
HAIR COLOR? My hair is, medium brown? I think...
EYE COLOR? Fun cause I recently learned a term for this. It's Glasz. My eye color changes all the time between blue, green, grey and even a bit of yellow on occasion. Today they are a bluish grey.
DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? No, but I am trying to wear my glasses more.
FAVORITE FOOD? I like a good lasagna or chicken parmesan.
LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? The Hunger Games
FAVORITE SEASON? I think it's a tie between spring and fall.
FAVORITE DESSERT? Either cheesecake or sticky toffee pudding.
COMPUTER OR TELEVISION? I use my phone or computer for most things, including Netflix.
WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? I just finished The Land of Stories: The Wishing Spell by Chris Colfer. Today I'm starting Fishers of Men by Gerald N Lund.
FAVORITE SOUND? Running water (river, rain...) or just a good song
WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? Nova Scotia for distance, Utah for out of country.
DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? I'm really good at planning things out in detail. Execution is another story.
WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Nova Scotia, Canada
WHERE ARE YOU LIVING NOW? Alberta, Canada
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK? So everyone's expecting a Harry Potter book, right? I'd have to say, though that Behold The Man by Gerald N Lund is my favorite.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE? Again, it's not HP. My favorite movie is Lord of the Rings: Return of the King (the extended version).
Post 1: Book Review
I decided that every time I read a book for the first time I'm going to do a bit of a review for it on here. To be honest, it doesn't happen very often, because I'm a bit re-reader. I got to read a new book this week though.
The Land of Stories: The Wishing Spell
by Chris Colfer
I'm going to be honest and say that when I first heard that he'd written a book, I had no intention of reading it whatsoever. I assumed that the book got published simply because it's Chris Colfer and I don't believe in buying/reading something just because of who put it out (read: George Lucas). At some point I ended up finding out what the book was about, though. It's a modern day fairy tale telling the continuing story of the characters from the fairy tales we grew up with (Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Goldilocks, etc). My interest was piqued. So I asked my brother if he'd heard anything about it (my brother works for Chapter Indigo). He said that the writing itself wasn't great but that the story was probably okay. In the end I decided to see if the story concept would override the writing itself and put a hold on it through the library.
In short, yes, the concept overrode the writing. I could tell that writing wasn't the sole focus in his life. However, I was so interested in his take on things (The Charming Dynasty, the back story to characters, how the Bailey twins fit in to things) that I sped through the book. It was very obvious that he's a fan of J.K. Rowling by how he revealed things in tiny bits and pieces through the story before revealing it all at the end, with a bit of a twist. I also greatly enjoyed his witty sarcastic sense of humor, mainly through Conner Bailey, one of the twins, who fall into The Land of Stories and are completing tasks to be able to get back home.
The book itself is a children's book that I would relate to Shrek, Madagascar or any Disney movie. Kids will enjoy it, but there are a few jokes thrown in there for the adults to chuckle at. There are quite a few profound statements in there as well, which I want to write down before I return the book to the library tomorrow.
All in all, I really enjoyed the book. It kept my interest, it kept me laughing and I'm looking forward to the sequel. On the con side, you can tell he's not an accomplished writer and there are points where his writing style got a bit frustrating. I would still happily recommend it as a fun light read, though.
The Land of Stories: The Wishing Spell
by Chris Colfer
I'm going to be honest and say that when I first heard that he'd written a book, I had no intention of reading it whatsoever. I assumed that the book got published simply because it's Chris Colfer and I don't believe in buying/reading something just because of who put it out (read: George Lucas). At some point I ended up finding out what the book was about, though. It's a modern day fairy tale telling the continuing story of the characters from the fairy tales we grew up with (Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Goldilocks, etc). My interest was piqued. So I asked my brother if he'd heard anything about it (my brother works for Chapter Indigo). He said that the writing itself wasn't great but that the story was probably okay. In the end I decided to see if the story concept would override the writing itself and put a hold on it through the library.
In short, yes, the concept overrode the writing. I could tell that writing wasn't the sole focus in his life. However, I was so interested in his take on things (The Charming Dynasty, the back story to characters, how the Bailey twins fit in to things) that I sped through the book. It was very obvious that he's a fan of J.K. Rowling by how he revealed things in tiny bits and pieces through the story before revealing it all at the end, with a bit of a twist. I also greatly enjoyed his witty sarcastic sense of humor, mainly through Conner Bailey, one of the twins, who fall into The Land of Stories and are completing tasks to be able to get back home.
The book itself is a children's book that I would relate to Shrek, Madagascar or any Disney movie. Kids will enjoy it, but there are a few jokes thrown in there for the adults to chuckle at. There are quite a few profound statements in there as well, which I want to write down before I return the book to the library tomorrow.
All in all, I really enjoyed the book. It kept my interest, it kept me laughing and I'm looking forward to the sequel. On the con side, you can tell he's not an accomplished writer and there are points where his writing style got a bit frustrating. I would still happily recommend it as a fun light read, though.
Friday, August 31, 2012
"Who I Am Hates Who I've Been"
I can't believe it's been over a month since I posted. Okay, I can, but it still seems odd. I just never seem to have anything to write about. My brother got married this month and it was a great day with a fair few tears on my part. Caleb was a great ring bearer and took his duty very seriously. I even got to dance that night, which I hadn't got to do in OH SO LONG and really missed. I included my favourite picture of the day (myself, Caleb and my dad).It's actually been a pretty tough month for me. I've realized that I haven't forgiven myself for something that everyone else (including Heavenly Father) has forgiven me for, which is the life I lead (before I joined the church) that ended up in my becoming a birth mother. I haven't been able to forgive myself for all of the pain that I ended up causing myself and other people as well. At least now I realize how I actually feel and am working on the problem. Forgiving ourselves, I think, is a lot harder than forgiving anyone else and I know that I'm in for a long and emotional process. It will be worth it, though.
So I'm a huge music junkie. I don't mean "I like to listen to music" or "I enjoy playing an instrument or singing", I mean "Music is my rock, has been for years and years and is my crutch in any given difficult situation". Naturally, I'm always wanting new music. So I asked one of the YW in our ward for some suggestions. I knew she was the kind of person that would suggest stuff that I'd probably actually like and relate to instead stuff I can just appreciate. One of the bands she recommended was Relient K. So I searched them on iTunes and had 2 thoughts as I listened to one of their songs. 1)This band plays a style of music that I absolutely love; and 2) This song title sums up EXACTLY how I've been feeling this last month, "Who I Am Hates Who I've Been". It boils down to me being grateful for having music in my life and the strength that it brings me. I may not be able to sing or to play, but I have an intense passion for music, and that in and of itself is a gift in my eyes.
Tomorrow is the Harry Potter party, which I'm pretty excited about. Also, Caleb starts grade 1 next week, which we're BOTH really looking forward to. I think September is going to be a much better month. Now to pack my trunk for Hogwarts...
Friday, July 27, 2012
July
I know it's been a very long time since I posted. It's been a tough few weeks. Camp was (mostly) a really good experience. I unexpectedly became really good at doing lice checks. I got to really strengthen my relationships with the girls though, which was awesome. I shot a 22 rifle and a 12 gauge shotgun at camp and decided I love target shooting. I also went down a zip line, which was a lot of fun. We had an awesome day at the beach where I got a very burned back, despite the 3 coats of sunscreen I put on while we were there. It's all healed now, though, and is no longer ghostly white.
After camp, I had an emotional letdown, which I was kind of aware was a possibility but hadn't REALLY expected it. It's been a tough few weeks trying to get back to normal, but I'm slowly getting there. I'm looking forward to my brother's wedding in 2 weeks. I get to buy a new dress for it, which I'm excited about. Hopefully I'll be able to find something nice.
No Attitude of Gratitude this month. I never remember when I'm supposed to, so I may give it up altogether for that reason.
Not too much else is going on, so I hope that everyone has a wonderful weekend and is enjoying their summer.
After camp, I had an emotional letdown, which I was kind of aware was a possibility but hadn't REALLY expected it. It's been a tough few weeks trying to get back to normal, but I'm slowly getting there. I'm looking forward to my brother's wedding in 2 weeks. I get to buy a new dress for it, which I'm excited about. Hopefully I'll be able to find something nice.
No Attitude of Gratitude this month. I never remember when I'm supposed to, so I may give it up altogether for that reason.
Not too much else is going on, so I hope that everyone has a wonderful weekend and is enjoying their summer.
Monday, July 9, 2012
Van and Camp
After yet another dead van issue last week, we have worked out a deal and are getting our new to us 2006 Dodge Caravan tomorrow. It has Sto N Go, which I'm over the moon about. I am so glad to be getting rid of the stupid Ford that has caused me nothing but problems since we bought it.
I won't get to enjoy the van until Saturday, though. I leave for camp tomorrow morning and the van isn't coming until the afternoon. I have been running around this past week like a chicken with my head cut off making sure everything is ready for camp. Funny enough, it's a stake camp and there shouldn't even be a lot to do. I guess it just doesn't help when you have a presidency change not even a month before camp and many last minute changes. Everything's about as ready as it can be though and I'm sure I'll relax and have a blast once we pull away in the motor home tomorrow. It's been interesting trying to get myself ready for camp and get my house ready for me to not be here. There's quite a bit of planning that goes into things when just Mum is going to be away.
I'll post all about camp when I get back, but won't have any pictures. I've opted not to bring my camera since I have to bring so many extra things as the only leader who is there for all of camp.
I won't get to enjoy the van until Saturday, though. I leave for camp tomorrow morning and the van isn't coming until the afternoon. I have been running around this past week like a chicken with my head cut off making sure everything is ready for camp. Funny enough, it's a stake camp and there shouldn't even be a lot to do. I guess it just doesn't help when you have a presidency change not even a month before camp and many last minute changes. Everything's about as ready as it can be though and I'm sure I'll relax and have a blast once we pull away in the motor home tomorrow. It's been interesting trying to get myself ready for camp and get my house ready for me to not be here. There's quite a bit of planning that goes into things when just Mum is going to be away.
I'll post all about camp when I get back, but won't have any pictures. I've opted not to bring my camera since I have to bring so many extra things as the only leader who is there for all of camp.
Thursday, June 28, 2012
AoG
I'm seeing a trend with the last Thursday of the month here. My van stopped working last night and we're going to have to pump even more money into it. I don't care if I need another rush purchase vehicle, I will never buy another Ford as long as I live. I INSIST on a Dodge next time. I'm try to do my Attitude of Gratitude well, but I'm not having the best of days, so be patient with me.
1) I am grateful for my new calling and the strength that it is in my life. I love serving in the Young Women presidency and working closely with the Beehives in my ward. I am so excited to go to camp with them in 12 more sleeps (not that I'm counting or anything).
2) I am grateful for the people who came and hugged me on Sunday when I was having a tough day. Hugs always seem to brighten things up. I love getting hugs and I love the people who gave me those particular hugs.
3) I am grateful that Caleb enjoyed his first year of school so much. He absolutely loved Kindergarten and learned so many things. He has started to learn how to read and can read basic books by himself (See fox. See fox run.). He and I are looking forward to grade 1 in the fall and even more adventures in learning.
1) I am grateful for my new calling and the strength that it is in my life. I love serving in the Young Women presidency and working closely with the Beehives in my ward. I am so excited to go to camp with them in 12 more sleeps (not that I'm counting or anything).
2) I am grateful for the people who came and hugged me on Sunday when I was having a tough day. Hugs always seem to brighten things up. I love getting hugs and I love the people who gave me those particular hugs.
3) I am grateful that Caleb enjoyed his first year of school so much. He absolutely loved Kindergarten and learned so many things. He has started to learn how to read and can read basic books by himself (See fox. See fox run.). He and I are looking forward to grade 1 in the fall and even more adventures in learning.
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
The Big '8'
8 is kind of a big deal in our church, as that's the age when you can get baptized. Well for me, today is 8 years SINCE I was baptized. It's very seldom that it feels like it's only been 8 years. Prep work for camp is the only time I really feel it because I don't know how anything works for camp. Most of the time it feels like ages and ages since I became a member of this church and made promises to Heavenly Father. So 8 years ago today, I made the best decision of my life. I can say best because every other good thing that's happened since then has happened BECAUSE of that decision. I love this church, I love my Heavenly Father, I love my Savior and I am incredibly grateful for the 2 men who taught me about it all.
Sunday, June 17, 2012
A New Calling (Again)
Today was probably the most emotional day I've ever seen at church. Our entire Young Women leadership was redone and many of our old leadership will be going on to callings in other auxiliaries. I am very happy, humbled and grateful to have been called as the 2nd counselor in the new YW presidency. I will be the only leader going to all of camp. Our outgoing and incoming presidents are switching off as the other leader. I'm so excited to be going to camp and to get to know the girls better. I've only ever been to 1 night of YW camp, when I was visiting with friends in Utah, so I was overjoyed when I found out that I get to go to camp this year. (As a fun note just for 1 reader in particular, this is my 5th calling I've held in the past 15 months.)
As her parting act, our outgoing president got to be there as I received my Young Womanhood Recognition and she put my medallion on my neck for me. I am sad to see these incredible woman move on to new adventures that I don't get to share with them, but am looking forward to working with the new leaders (and rearranged leaders).
Probably the most emotional part of my day was when John told me that he was being switched from Financial Clerk to Membership Clerk. I hadn't realized just how emotionally hard his calling really had been for me until he told me that. I just broke down crying in tears of joy and relief. It's funny how I'm moving to a higher demand calling and am just over the moon about it and feel no stress from it whatsoever, but felt that much stress with John's higher demand calling. I think it's because of how much passion I have for the Young Women program and how much impact it can have on these wonderful girls.
Life is good. Life is so very good.
As her parting act, our outgoing president got to be there as I received my Young Womanhood Recognition and she put my medallion on my neck for me. I am sad to see these incredible woman move on to new adventures that I don't get to share with them, but am looking forward to working with the new leaders (and rearranged leaders).
Probably the most emotional part of my day was when John told me that he was being switched from Financial Clerk to Membership Clerk. I hadn't realized just how emotionally hard his calling really had been for me until he told me that. I just broke down crying in tears of joy and relief. It's funny how I'm moving to a higher demand calling and am just over the moon about it and feel no stress from it whatsoever, but felt that much stress with John's higher demand calling. I think it's because of how much passion I have for the Young Women program and how much impact it can have on these wonderful girls.
Life is good. Life is so very good.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Listening To The Spirit
It still amazes me every time someone is very attentive to the Spirit, and probably without even knowing that they're doing it. In the past week I've had 3 friends that said things that I really needed to hear at that time. At a time when I've felt worthless, these friends have made me feel cared about and important. These past few weeks have been a big struggle for me, but it's things like this that help me get through the tough times.
Last night, one of my Beehives posted a status about me. I'd put together some binders for our Beehive presidency and she must have really liked them because they earned their own status complete with capital letters, smiley faces and a plethora of exclamation points. Right before I checked facebook, I'd been crying to John about something that I was really struggling with. So the first thing I noticed when I went on was this wonderful status letting me know that I was appreciated for all of her facebook friends to see. It made my evening so much better and was exactly what I needed at that moment.
I have some pretty awesome people in my life, and I am ever so grateful for them.
Last night, one of my Beehives posted a status about me. I'd put together some binders for our Beehive presidency and she must have really liked them because they earned their own status complete with capital letters, smiley faces and a plethora of exclamation points. Right before I checked facebook, I'd been crying to John about something that I was really struggling with. So the first thing I noticed when I went on was this wonderful status letting me know that I was appreciated for all of her facebook friends to see. It made my evening so much better and was exactly what I needed at that moment.
I have some pretty awesome people in my life, and I am ever so grateful for them.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Super Late AoG
Since I didn't do the Attitude of Gratitude day when I normally would have, I'll fit it in now. In case you couldn't tell by my last post, I've been struggling with my disorder again lately. Between Caleb's behavior, lingering grief after the funeral and weather that's as bipolar as I am, it hasn't been the easiest few weeks. I'm just trying to take things 1 day at a time, sometimes even 1 hour at a time.
Anyway, here goes:
1) I am so incredibly grateful for the calling I have working with the Young Women and the strength it is in my life. It has been my lifeline these past few weeks. I have LOVED getting to know the young women in my ward better and seeing just how amazing they really are. I love the energy they have and how it gives me extra boosts. I am grateful for the little things, like one of the young women going out of her way yesterday to give me a high five as I received my last personal progress ribbon for my bookmark.
2) I am grateful for my wonderful husband who is so good to me and tries so hard to be as supportive as possible when I'm struggling. I am so lucky to be his eternal companion.
3) I am grateful for prayer and how powerful it can be. I am so thankful that I have a way to communicate to Heavenly Father how I'm feeling and to feel like I'm actually having a conversation. I love the peace that it brings me and I'm so eternally grateful to have a Heavenly Father who knows me as an individual and loves me so much.
Anyway, here goes:
1) I am so incredibly grateful for the calling I have working with the Young Women and the strength it is in my life. It has been my lifeline these past few weeks. I have LOVED getting to know the young women in my ward better and seeing just how amazing they really are. I love the energy they have and how it gives me extra boosts. I am grateful for the little things, like one of the young women going out of her way yesterday to give me a high five as I received my last personal progress ribbon for my bookmark.
2) I am grateful for my wonderful husband who is so good to me and tries so hard to be as supportive as possible when I'm struggling. I am so lucky to be his eternal companion.
3) I am grateful for prayer and how powerful it can be. I am so thankful that I have a way to communicate to Heavenly Father how I'm feeling and to feel like I'm actually having a conversation. I love the peace that it brings me and I'm so eternally grateful to have a Heavenly Father who knows me as an individual and loves me so much.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Not An Attitude of Gratitude Day
I know what I'm supposed to be posting about today as it's the last Thursday of the month, but I am seriously just not feeling it. My morning started out with Caleb waking up at stupid o'clock and then waking his brothers up as well. He pushed and pushed until he got a privilege taken away and then proceeded to try to hurt his brothers in a fit of rage. Definitely not my best morning and my evening wasn't much better due to personal struggles. I went for a walk just so I could break down crying.
I don't feel like I have anything to say that anyone would want to hear about. Maybe I'm just writing this all out because writing it out helps make me feel the tiniest bit better, I'm not sure. Or maybe it's because I promised myself when I made my blog public again that I'd never feel bad about posting the truth about things and being real and human.
I am considering moving next year. Not sure where to, just somewhere that we could get a fresh start. We'll see what happens...
I need to start making things for Caleb's Harry Potter party. I need to look at my ideas and make a few final decisions. He also wants it to be a dress up party, but I haven't decided on that one yet.
I don't feel like I have anything to say that anyone would want to hear about. Maybe I'm just writing this all out because writing it out helps make me feel the tiniest bit better, I'm not sure. Or maybe it's because I promised myself when I made my blog public again that I'd never feel bad about posting the truth about things and being real and human.
I am considering moving next year. Not sure where to, just somewhere that we could get a fresh start. We'll see what happens...
I need to start making things for Caleb's Harry Potter party. I need to look at my ideas and make a few final decisions. He also wants it to be a dress up party, but I haven't decided on that one yet.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Goings On And What Not
I've been a horrible blogger lately and haven't been posting much about anything. I'm still loving my calling as the Beehive adviser and am super excited to go to camp in a couple of months. Tomorrow will by the last day of my last personal progress experience, so I will be done it as of Thursday morning :) It's been an amazing experience and I'm so glad that I decided to do it.
I am currently entered for a giveaway from Geekling Designs, which I have completely fallen in love with. I think I may end up spending a fortune on their stuff whenever we get pregnant next time.
My friends and I are currently planning a Harry Potter party, which I am LOVING! Caleb has also chosen Harry Potter as the theme for his birthday this year, so I'll be able to double up on decorations. Ty chose Angry Birds for his birthday.
Bretts had his eye surgery 2 weeks ago and his eyes are majorly improved. He goes for his follow up with his opthalmologist this afternoon. He had his hearing test last Thursday and he has normal hearing. That day he learned to say "hello", which is so adorable. He also started climbing the stairs that evening. It was quite the day for him. Yesterday he was saying "three" because John was counting to 3 while doing something with him. I love seeing him progress like this and catch up to where he should be.
We are setting things up right now for Caleb to start taking piano lessons in the fall. He is VERY excited about it.
Yesterday we had a BBQ with some friends which we really enjoyed. Life is going pretty good at the Bly house.
I am currently entered for a giveaway from Geekling Designs, which I have completely fallen in love with. I think I may end up spending a fortune on their stuff whenever we get pregnant next time.
My friends and I are currently planning a Harry Potter party, which I am LOVING! Caleb has also chosen Harry Potter as the theme for his birthday this year, so I'll be able to double up on decorations. Ty chose Angry Birds for his birthday.
Bretts had his eye surgery 2 weeks ago and his eyes are majorly improved. He goes for his follow up with his opthalmologist this afternoon. He had his hearing test last Thursday and he has normal hearing. That day he learned to say "hello", which is so adorable. He also started climbing the stairs that evening. It was quite the day for him. Yesterday he was saying "three" because John was counting to 3 while doing something with him. I love seeing him progress like this and catch up to where he should be.
We are setting things up right now for Caleb to start taking piano lessons in the fall. He is VERY excited about it.
Yesterday we had a BBQ with some friends which we really enjoyed. Life is going pretty good at the Bly house.
Sunday, May 13, 2012
The People Who Make This Day Special For Me
A post for the people who have made me a mother!
There are 4 people I live with who have made me a mother. My husband, who has been oh so patient over the past 6 1/2 years (and is currently frying up bacon for me). He has stood by me through thick and thin and I'm so blessed to be his eternal companion. This week will be 7 years since we first met.
Caleb, my wonderful little boy. He has stood by me through a lot as well and has often brightened my day with his smiles and hugs. Caleb is growing into an amazing young man and I'm so happy with him.
Tyrell, who constantly keeps me on my toes and is trying to single handedly to finally teach me patience. He can be the most adorable little dude ever when he gives his crooked little grin.
Brettley, who made me feel like a first time mother all over again. He and I had such a tough haul, but he is the cutest little chicken ever and such a trooper through all of his trials.
Also, just a mention about some other women who have helped make me a mother.
My grandma, who is currently going through horrible health issues that she will never recover from in this life.
C, who is so super amazing and loves L so much. I love you guys so much!
Finally, my mum, who sacrificed so much to do her very best as a mother. She was and still is an amazing example of a selfless mother who loves her divine role.
Happy mothers day to all who are a mother in any way, shape and/or form.
There are 4 people I live with who have made me a mother. My husband, who has been oh so patient over the past 6 1/2 years (and is currently frying up bacon for me). He has stood by me through thick and thin and I'm so blessed to be his eternal companion. This week will be 7 years since we first met.
Caleb, my wonderful little boy. He has stood by me through a lot as well and has often brightened my day with his smiles and hugs. Caleb is growing into an amazing young man and I'm so happy with him.
Tyrell, who constantly keeps me on my toes and is trying to single handedly to finally teach me patience. He can be the most adorable little dude ever when he gives his crooked little grin.
Brettley, who made me feel like a first time mother all over again. He and I had such a tough haul, but he is the cutest little chicken ever and such a trooper through all of his trials.
Also, just a mention about some other women who have helped make me a mother.
My grandma, who is currently going through horrible health issues that she will never recover from in this life.
C, who is so super amazing and loves L so much. I love you guys so much!
Finally, my mum, who sacrificed so much to do her very best as a mother. She was and still is an amazing example of a selfless mother who loves her divine role.
Happy mothers day to all who are a mother in any way, shape and/or form.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Attitude of Gratitude (Better Late Than Never)
I totally forgot on Thursday to do my Attitude of Gratitude. So rather than skipping it altogether for April, I'll just do it on a Monday instead...
1) I am so super duper awesomely grateful for my new calling as the Beehive adviser. *In case you couldn't tell, I like my calling* I love the girls that I work with and the counselor I work with is a great friend and awesome to work with.
2) I am grateful for another friend of our's who is going to sit down with us and help is make a plan to get into a house of our own sooner rather than later. We're hoping to need another bedroom in about 2 years from now, so we'll see what we can work out.
3) I am grateful for yet another friend who totally made my day on Saturday. I'd been having a rough time and she never fails to make me feel loved and appreciated. I rarely get to see her anymore since they moved, so being able to talk with her on Saturday was a wonderful blessing to me :)
1) I am so super duper awesomely grateful for my new calling as the Beehive adviser. *In case you couldn't tell, I like my calling* I love the girls that I work with and the counselor I work with is a great friend and awesome to work with.
2) I am grateful for another friend of our's who is going to sit down with us and help is make a plan to get into a house of our own sooner rather than later. We're hoping to need another bedroom in about 2 years from now, so we'll see what we can work out.
3) I am grateful for yet another friend who totally made my day on Saturday. I'd been having a rough time and she never fails to make me feel loved and appreciated. I rarely get to see her anymore since they moved, so being able to talk with her on Saturday was a wonderful blessing to me :)
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Personal Progress Update
I decided to do a brief update on my Personal Progress. I have completed Individual Worth, Knowledge, Choice & Accountability and Virtue.
I have finished a total of 38/46 experiences and 5/8 projects.
I am currently working on 4 experiences and the remaining 3 projects.
Once these are done, I will only have 4 experiences left to complete.
I am very much on track to finish all of them before YW Camp :)
On a side note, I will be finished Good Works by the end of the week.
I absolutely LOVE serving in Young Women. Definitely my favorite calling to date.
I have finished a total of 38/46 experiences and 5/8 projects.
I am currently working on 4 experiences and the remaining 3 projects.
Once these are done, I will only have 4 experiences left to complete.
I am very much on track to finish all of them before YW Camp :)
On a side note, I will be finished Good Works by the end of the week.
I absolutely LOVE serving in Young Women. Definitely my favorite calling to date.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Crafty, Food Stuff and Ribbons
My mum came this weekend and we made some wreaths for my door. A spring one, that I have up right now, and a summer one as well. I really like them and am looking forward to making more for the fall (autumn, halloween, etc).
We made up the Shepherd's Pie which was okay, except we were cooking it from frozen and that REALLY extended the cooking time. We just hadn't been expecting to make it for a lunch instead of a supper.
The Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and the Lemon Rice were both super super yummy.
Anyway, not too much else is new here, other than all of us except for Caleb having a cold. Feeling a little better than I did yesterday, though.
Oh, and I got my 4 Personal Progress ribbons this last Sunday. I will have another one earned by the end of this month. My goal is to have earned them all by YW camp. Hopefully I can pull it off.
We made up the Shepherd's Pie which was okay, except we were cooking it from frozen and that REALLY extended the cooking time. We just hadn't been expecting to make it for a lunch instead of a supper.
The Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and the Lemon Rice were both super super yummy.
Anyway, not too much else is new here, other than all of us except for Caleb having a cold. Feeling a little better than I did yesterday, though.
Oh, and I got my 4 Personal Progress ribbons this last Sunday. I will have another one earned by the end of this month. My goal is to have earned them all by YW camp. Hopefully I can pull it off.
Friday, April 13, 2012
Food and YW
On Monday we had Chicken & Black Bean Burritos that went over great with everyone. We would definitely like to have them again.
On Tuesday we had Cheeseburger Meatloaf, Garlic Bread & Corn, which was loved by all. Then I got to attend YW and play super fun games. I also found out that I am officially able to go to camp with them this summer which I'm insanely excited about.
Wednesday we had Baked Macaroni & Cheese as well as Mixed Veggies. It was LOVED by all. My niece even had thirds and asked for the recipe. We will definitely be needing to make that again.
Last night we had Pizza Soup. Truthfully, it tasted like we were eating spaghetti sauce with meat in it. It wasn't bad, but we weren't quite sure about it.
Tonight we are having Shepherd's Pie and tomorrow we're having Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Lemon Rice. Should be good. Then we'll have tried all of the kinds of freezer meals that I made. I'm really glad that I did this, it's been a great learning experience for me.
On Tuesday we had Cheeseburger Meatloaf, Garlic Bread & Corn, which was loved by all. Then I got to attend YW and play super fun games. I also found out that I am officially able to go to camp with them this summer which I'm insanely excited about.
Wednesday we had Baked Macaroni & Cheese as well as Mixed Veggies. It was LOVED by all. My niece even had thirds and asked for the recipe. We will definitely be needing to make that again.
Last night we had Pizza Soup. Truthfully, it tasted like we were eating spaghetti sauce with meat in it. It wasn't bad, but we weren't quite sure about it.
Tonight we are having Shepherd's Pie and tomorrow we're having Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Lemon Rice. Should be good. Then we'll have tried all of the kinds of freezer meals that I made. I'm really glad that I did this, it's been a great learning experience for me.
Monday, April 9, 2012
Food and The Exciting News
Saturday night we had Chicken Chili. We had to add an extra can of beans and a bunch of salsa so that we would have enough for my nieces as well. It was pretty good, although the extra salsa made it a tiny bit too spicy, but we won't have the same problem next time. I would make it again.
Yesterday we had Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, which was super yummy and we didn't have any leftovers. I got the recipe from my sister-in-law.
I also got my new calling yesterday, which was the exciting news I had to keep quiet for a couple of weeks (and it was really hard to keep quiet because I was so excited). I am the new Beehive advisor in our ward, which I am super duper excited about!!! I also love the counselor I'm working with, which makes it even more awesome. I am so excited to serve in this calling, especially since the girls that I'll be working with are the same girls I had in Activity Days.
Yesterday we had Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, which was super yummy and we didn't have any leftovers. I got the recipe from my sister-in-law.
I also got my new calling yesterday, which was the exciting news I had to keep quiet for a couple of weeks (and it was really hard to keep quiet because I was so excited). I am the new Beehive advisor in our ward, which I am super duper excited about!!! I also love the counselor I'm working with, which makes it even more awesome. I am so excited to serve in this calling, especially since the girls that I'll be working with are the same girls I had in Activity Days.
Friday, April 6, 2012
More Food Reviews, A Talk and Family Photos
Wednesday night we had Vegetable Chowder for supper. It did not go over well at all. There wasn't nearly enough spice/flavor and it tasted horribly plain. The boys really weren't into it. I don't think we'll make it again after the month is over.
Thursday evening we had Catelina Chicken along with some frozen veggies. We LOVED the chicken and will definitely be adding that as a meal to make again. Brettley especially enjoyed it. He really likes chicken.
Today we had Meatball Stroganoff on Macaroni, which was super yummy and everyone wanted seconds. The only change I would make is to use corn as the vegetable instead of peas as I'm not a fan of peas. But that's entirely a personal thing.
Also, I just finished writing out my talk that I'm giving in church on Sunday. I don't know if anyone else will enjoy it, but it was an awesome experience for me. *As a note, I should be able to say in my next post what my exciting news is*
Tomorrow we are having family photos done, which I'm very excited about. It's also a sad thing, though, as our photographer is soon moving to the UK, so we will have to find someone new :( Oh well, we wish her the best of luck across the pond!
Thursday evening we had Catelina Chicken along with some frozen veggies. We LOVED the chicken and will definitely be adding that as a meal to make again. Brettley especially enjoyed it. He really likes chicken.
Today we had Meatball Stroganoff on Macaroni, which was super yummy and everyone wanted seconds. The only change I would make is to use corn as the vegetable instead of peas as I'm not a fan of peas. But that's entirely a personal thing.
Also, I just finished writing out my talk that I'm giving in church on Sunday. I don't know if anyone else will enjoy it, but it was an awesome experience for me. *As a note, I should be able to say in my next post what my exciting news is*
Tomorrow we are having family photos done, which I'm very excited about. It's also a sad thing, though, as our photographer is soon moving to the UK, so we will have to find someone new :( Oh well, we wish her the best of luck across the pond!
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Food Reviews and Specs
Monday night we had Chicken Rice Wraps. John really liked them (Brett went nuts over them). Ty just refused to eat that night. Caleb and I both found that they were plain while you were eating them and then ended up having too much of a spicy after kick for our taste. We'll eat them again just because they're already made for later this month, but it's not something I'll make again since at least 2 of us didn't like them.
Yesterday we had Cabbage Roll Casserole. It had a different taste from the recipe I used to use, but we liked it. The boys didn't LOVE it, except Brett who loves pretty much any food you put in front of him, but at least they were willing to eat it. I'd make it again.
I got my eyes examined last night. I will now be a full-time glasses wearer. I am to wear my reading glasses until I get my new ones, because my prescription changed a bit. I ordered 2 pair from Zenni Optical. Hopefully they'll look okay on me, I was pretty nervous about buying glasses that I've never tried on in person. However, it was only $70 for both pair, including AR coating on both AND shipping costs. So here they are:
What do you think?
Yesterday we had Cabbage Roll Casserole. It had a different taste from the recipe I used to use, but we liked it. The boys didn't LOVE it, except Brett who loves pretty much any food you put in front of him, but at least they were willing to eat it. I'd make it again.
I got my eyes examined last night. I will now be a full-time glasses wearer. I am to wear my reading glasses until I get my new ones, because my prescription changed a bit. I ordered 2 pair from Zenni Optical. Hopefully they'll look okay on me, I was pretty nervous about buying glasses that I've never tried on in person. However, it was only $70 for both pair, including AR coating on both AND shipping costs. So here they are:
What do you think?
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Pulled Beef in BBQ Sauce
So freezer meal #1 was a success. We had pulled beef in BBQ sauce on a bun along with an Asian salad kit. I was so worried that we wouldn't have enough meat, but we all had enough to eat and there was lots leftover for John's lunch tomorrow as well. I took the package of cooked meat & BBQ sauce out last night and left it in the fridge. This morning I popped it in the slow cooker on low for the day, adding about 1/3 cup more BBQ sauce for the last half hour. It took a whole 3 minutes, if that, for John to put the salad together. We all thought it was super yummy and I'm sure we're all looking forward to having it again in a couple of weeks.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Freezer Meals, Easter, Teaser and Attitude of Gratitude
I've been working really hard on my April freezer meals these past few days. I have 24 meals made already with 4 left to make today. For the most part, they've been pretty easy to make, although I've already decided that I won't be doing this again until I have a bigger freezer because I'm really pushing it. I also discovered that trying to transfer soup into freezer bags by yourself is really frustrating.
We started our Easter Advent yesterday. I have daily readings that I'm doing and then yesterday I did the Easter Story using the plastic eggs with the kids. I hope you know what I'm talking about, but they seem to be pretty popular. Today we are reading a picture story about the first Easter that was in the Friend magazine at one point.
I have more fun news that I REALLY want to share, but won't be able to for a few more weeks, so stay tuned. And no, it is NOT baby related.
Last, since I'm actually thinking about it today, it's going to be Attitude of Gratitude Day for March 2012.
1) I am SO SO SO grateful for the time that I had with my father-in-law. I'm grateful for such a wonderful man in my life and I'm grateful that I listened to the spirit and decided to go down to say good bye when we did because waiting a few more days would have made it too late. I love him so much, I miss him lots and I'm forever grateful that I can see him again someday.
2) I am grateful that there are so many supports in place that we can get so much help with Brettley through his delays. I'm grateful that I live in the time that I do that so many different options, so much technology and support are available.
3) I am grateful for the opportunity that I had to go to the temple this month and to do work for my great-grandmother. I love the peace that I feel at the temple and I love that I have one so close to me. I'm looking forward to our next temple trip, I already have the date set.
We started our Easter Advent yesterday. I have daily readings that I'm doing and then yesterday I did the Easter Story using the plastic eggs with the kids. I hope you know what I'm talking about, but they seem to be pretty popular. Today we are reading a picture story about the first Easter that was in the Friend magazine at one point.
I have more fun news that I REALLY want to share, but won't be able to for a few more weeks, so stay tuned. And no, it is NOT baby related.
Last, since I'm actually thinking about it today, it's going to be Attitude of Gratitude Day for March 2012.
1) I am SO SO SO grateful for the time that I had with my father-in-law. I'm grateful for such a wonderful man in my life and I'm grateful that I listened to the spirit and decided to go down to say good bye when we did because waiting a few more days would have made it too late. I love him so much, I miss him lots and I'm forever grateful that I can see him again someday.
2) I am grateful that there are so many supports in place that we can get so much help with Brettley through his delays. I'm grateful that I live in the time that I do that so many different options, so much technology and support are available.
3) I am grateful for the opportunity that I had to go to the temple this month and to do work for my great-grandmother. I love the peace that I feel at the temple and I love that I have one so close to me. I'm looking forward to our next temple trip, I already have the date set.
Monday, March 19, 2012
Brett's Plethora Of Health Care Workers
My stress level has actually been pretty high lately because I had something else on my brain while everything happened with my father-in-law. Brettley is really far behind in a lot of his skills. We've had several health workers, including his pediatrician, agree that he has at least partial hearing loss, he doesn't communicate at all other than crying or laughing and his gross and fine motor skills are closer to that of a 6 month old baby. Enter Edmonton Early Intervention Program, who are going to help us get through it all. So before we were just working with his pediatrician and his opthalmologist. Now we've added in an early intervention worker, audiology, a speech therapist, a physiotherapist and an occupational therapist.
We're working off of the assumption at this point that we're all going to need to learn ASL. Brettley's EEIP worker wants us to start teaching him a few basic signs, so I'm going to start with 5, because the website recommended to me suggested that was a good number to start with. We'll begin with Mom, Dad, Milk, Hungry and Bed. Caleb still remembers the signs I taught him a few months ago (C, T, B, Mom, Dad, Eat, Drink and Love), so I think he'll be a huge help through this. Brett's worker also said that there's a good chance that he'll end up needing a special preschool in a few years and then take his schooling from there. I now really understand why we're supposed to wait a few more years before we have another baby. We have a lot of work ahead of us, but Brettley is worth every single bit of it.
We're working off of the assumption at this point that we're all going to need to learn ASL. Brettley's EEIP worker wants us to start teaching him a few basic signs, so I'm going to start with 5, because the website recommended to me suggested that was a good number to start with. We'll begin with Mom, Dad, Milk, Hungry and Bed. Caleb still remembers the signs I taught him a few months ago (C, T, B, Mom, Dad, Eat, Drink and Love), so I think he'll be a huge help through this. Brett's worker also said that there's a good chance that he'll end up needing a special preschool in a few years and then take his schooling from there. I now really understand why we're supposed to wait a few more years before we have another baby. We have a lot of work ahead of us, but Brettley is worth every single bit of it.
Friday, March 16, 2012
Personal Progress Update
I realized that I hadn't updated on my Personal Progress in a very long time.
To date I have passed off 28 goals and 4 projects. I am currently working on 1 goal and 3 projects. After that I will have 16 goals and 1 project left to do, so I feel that I'm coming along very well with it.
I have fully passed off Individual Worth and Virtue.
To date I have passed off 28 goals and 4 projects. I am currently working on 1 goal and 3 projects. After that I will have 16 goals and 1 project left to do, so I feel that I'm coming along very well with it.
I have fully passed off Individual Worth and Virtue.
Freezer Meals
I plan my meals the month before. Always. While we were in Magrath there were lots of talks and comments about certain traits belonging to which side of your brain is dominant. My SIL that's closest to my age and I are VERY left-brained. I guess that's where my obsession with lists and planning comes in.
* * *
Anyway, next month I've planned out ALL freezer meals, with just some veggies to be added in. I'm making them the week that Caleb's on spring break and I'm really looking forward to them. I usually do a 2 week rotation (unless I'm feeling super motivated that month), so I've got 2 weeks planned out and will make 2 of each meal.
* * *
Week 1
Sunday = Pulled Beef & BBQ Sauce on Buns with Salad
Monday = Chicken Rice Wraps
Tuesday = Lazy Cabbage Roll Casserole
Wednesday = Vegetable Chowder
Thursday = Catelina Chicken & Stir Fry Veggies
Friday = Meatball Stroganoff on Macaroni
Saturday = Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken & Lemon Rice
* * *
Week 2
Sunday = Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole & Stir Fry Veggies
Monday = Chicken & Black Bean Burritos
Tuesday = Cheeseburger Meatloaf & Steamed Broccoli
Wednesday = Pizza Soup
Thursday = Baked Macaroni & Cheese with Steamed Broccoli
Friday = Shepherd's Pie (Or as Caleb calls it, Colonel Sheppard's Pie, point if you get that one)
Saturday = Chicken Chili * * *
Should be lots of fun. I'll post later about how it goes over. I am also able to use it as a Personal Progress project, which is exciting.
* * *
Anyway, next month I've planned out ALL freezer meals, with just some veggies to be added in. I'm making them the week that Caleb's on spring break and I'm really looking forward to them. I usually do a 2 week rotation (unless I'm feeling super motivated that month), so I've got 2 weeks planned out and will make 2 of each meal.
* * *
Week 1
Sunday = Pulled Beef & BBQ Sauce on Buns with Salad
Monday = Chicken Rice Wraps
Tuesday = Lazy Cabbage Roll Casserole
Wednesday = Vegetable Chowder
Thursday = Catelina Chicken & Stir Fry Veggies
Friday = Meatball Stroganoff on Macaroni
Saturday = Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken & Lemon Rice
* * *
Week 2
Sunday = Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole & Stir Fry Veggies
Monday = Chicken & Black Bean Burritos
Tuesday = Cheeseburger Meatloaf & Steamed Broccoli
Wednesday = Pizza Soup
Thursday = Baked Macaroni & Cheese with Steamed Broccoli
Friday = Shepherd's Pie (Or as Caleb calls it, Colonel Sheppard's Pie, point if you get that one)
Saturday = Chicken Chili * * *
Should be lots of fun. I'll post later about how it goes over. I am also able to use it as a Personal Progress project, which is exciting.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Where I've Been
I've been missing in action, I know. In my defense, I wasn't home for most of it. If you follow my blog regularly you'll know that my father-in-law was battling pancreatic cancer. He went into the hospital on February 29th and we knew he wasn't coming back out, so my step-dad picked up our boys on the Thursday and first thing on Friday John and I travelled to southern AB. On the evening of Monday, March 5 my father-in-law passed away. We miss him a lot, but are very grateful that his suffering didn't last very long at all and are so thankful for the knowledge that we will be with him again.
So that's basically all that's been going on with us. Funeral prep and what not.
We are back to reality and our routine today.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Going Green
In all honestly, I hate that phrase. It reminds me of environmental extremism, which I'm really not that into. However, I am all for finding things that are cheaper and not as harsh on my kids or my skin, so I've started making my own cleaners.
In place of Comet scouring powder for the past few years I've just been using baking soda. I love it and I keep a big box of it in my kitchen. We've also used it in the bottom of the diaper pail as well to help keep the smell down.
My new disinfectant is white vinegar (with a few drops of tea tree oil if I remember). Costs SOOOOO much less, and is so much better for us than bleach. Incidentally, one of my friends spilled bleach on her shirt while I was talking to her yesterday. She said she only every uses it to wash cleaning rags to get the smell out. I asked if she'd tried using vinegar instead, but she hadn't. Because I use vinegar to clean with, it's already in my rags when they get washed and I don't need to worry about this, but I really wish I would have told her sooner and been able to help save her shirt.
Also, I use vinegar as my cleaner in my mop water.
My glass cleaner is a new find as well. It's 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol, 1/4 cup white vinegar, 1 Tbsp cornstarch and 2 cups warm water. Put it in a bottle and shake well. The only catch is that you have to shake well before each use, as the cornstarch settles, but it's a small price to pay. I really like this because it doesn't have ammonia in it, which I really don't like to use.
I've tried 2 different all purpose cleaners. The one I'm currently using is 1 part white vinegar to 1 part water. I also add a few drops of fragrance oil to it to cut the smell of the vinegar a bit, but it still smells REALLY strong. For that reason alone, I'll be switching back to my old one, but if you're really stuck, it works really well, it just smells like vinegar in the house for a while.
The one I'm going back to is 1 tsp liquid dish soap, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 2 Tbsp white vinegar and 2 cups water. Combine liquid dish soap, baking soda and water in an empty spray bottle. Then add vinegar and shake to combine. This one smells a lot better and works good too.
I have yet to try a homemade tub & tile cleaner, but I'm going to very soon. I don't plan on trying any other ones, though. I'm happy with buying my dish soap, dishwasher detergent and laundry detergent. I don't use febreeze.
As you can tell, I've been using a LOT of vinegar lately. I buy it by the big jug and with all of the cleaning I've been doing lately, it still took me 3 weeks to empty the jug. Keep in mind I've been using at least 1 cup of it every week just to give my sinks a good cleaning, so that probably used about 4 cups right there. However, vinegar is so cheap that I don't notice it at all on my grocery bill. It is definitely my favourite cleaning product.
In place of Comet scouring powder for the past few years I've just been using baking soda. I love it and I keep a big box of it in my kitchen. We've also used it in the bottom of the diaper pail as well to help keep the smell down.
My new disinfectant is white vinegar (with a few drops of tea tree oil if I remember). Costs SOOOOO much less, and is so much better for us than bleach. Incidentally, one of my friends spilled bleach on her shirt while I was talking to her yesterday. She said she only every uses it to wash cleaning rags to get the smell out. I asked if she'd tried using vinegar instead, but she hadn't. Because I use vinegar to clean with, it's already in my rags when they get washed and I don't need to worry about this, but I really wish I would have told her sooner and been able to help save her shirt.
Also, I use vinegar as my cleaner in my mop water.
My glass cleaner is a new find as well. It's 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol, 1/4 cup white vinegar, 1 Tbsp cornstarch and 2 cups warm water. Put it in a bottle and shake well. The only catch is that you have to shake well before each use, as the cornstarch settles, but it's a small price to pay. I really like this because it doesn't have ammonia in it, which I really don't like to use.
I've tried 2 different all purpose cleaners. The one I'm currently using is 1 part white vinegar to 1 part water. I also add a few drops of fragrance oil to it to cut the smell of the vinegar a bit, but it still smells REALLY strong. For that reason alone, I'll be switching back to my old one, but if you're really stuck, it works really well, it just smells like vinegar in the house for a while.
The one I'm going back to is 1 tsp liquid dish soap, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 2 Tbsp white vinegar and 2 cups water. Combine liquid dish soap, baking soda and water in an empty spray bottle. Then add vinegar and shake to combine. This one smells a lot better and works good too.
I have yet to try a homemade tub & tile cleaner, but I'm going to very soon. I don't plan on trying any other ones, though. I'm happy with buying my dish soap, dishwasher detergent and laundry detergent. I don't use febreeze.
As you can tell, I've been using a LOT of vinegar lately. I buy it by the big jug and with all of the cleaning I've been doing lately, it still took me 3 weeks to empty the jug. Keep in mind I've been using at least 1 cup of it every week just to give my sinks a good cleaning, so that probably used about 4 cups right there. However, vinegar is so cheap that I don't notice it at all on my grocery bill. It is definitely my favourite cleaning product.
Monday, February 20, 2012
GFCF
I'm in the middle of planning our April menu, which will happen to be Gluten free and Casein (basically dairy) free. I don't think it's actually going to be as hard as I'd originally thought it would be. A lot of our recipes can be adapted and we just got a cookbook today with some super yummy sounding ideas for new meals.
So the reason why we're going GFCF is because Ty has pretty much every single symptom of ADHD and has been getting worse instead of better with age. I've heard so much about how going GFCF can make such huge improvements with this so we both thought "What can it hurt?". We still have to find a really good multivitamin for the kids to take, though. My kids can be really picky eaters, so I want to make sure they're getting a good amount of vitamins, especially the calcium.
I'm about 20% nervous (kids' reactions, cost, etc) and 80% excited. We plan on giving it a good 4 months trial to see if it makes a difference with him, and then if it doesn't work, we'll take it from there.
The only problem with this is...I still need cow's milk for Brettley. I'm sure there are other options out there, but I'm not rocking the boat with him. My issue is trying to figure out how to keep the kids out of his milk when I'm not looking. Fridge locks don't work in our house, they either figure them out or bust them off. Oh well, I'm sure we'll think of something.
So the reason why we're going GFCF is because Ty has pretty much every single symptom of ADHD and has been getting worse instead of better with age. I've heard so much about how going GFCF can make such huge improvements with this so we both thought "What can it hurt?". We still have to find a really good multivitamin for the kids to take, though. My kids can be really picky eaters, so I want to make sure they're getting a good amount of vitamins, especially the calcium.
I'm about 20% nervous (kids' reactions, cost, etc) and 80% excited. We plan on giving it a good 4 months trial to see if it makes a difference with him, and then if it doesn't work, we'll take it from there.
The only problem with this is...I still need cow's milk for Brettley. I'm sure there are other options out there, but I'm not rocking the boat with him. My issue is trying to figure out how to keep the kids out of his milk when I'm not looking. Fridge locks don't work in our house, they either figure them out or bust them off. Oh well, I'm sure we'll think of something.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Attitude of Gratitude
1) I am so incredibly grateful for my wonderful baby boy who will be celebrating his first birthday on Saturday. I learned more from him than I can every fully tell people. I love how much he's still teaching me. I love his smiles and giggles and I'm so thankful that he came to us.
2) I am grateful for the FlyLady thing. It's kept me productive for 11 days and counting and my house looks SO much better. John loves what it's done for the house and for me. It's making life better for all of us.
3) I am grateful that I've actually been getting out and doing things with friends lately. It's so nice to have time with other females and time away from the house. Also with that I have a fourth thing, I guess, in that I am SO SO SO grateful for a husband who encourages me to get out of the house and doesn't complain in the slightest about being left with the kids whenever I want to go. He's amazing. I love him.
2) I am grateful for the FlyLady thing. It's kept me productive for 11 days and counting and my house looks SO much better. John loves what it's done for the house and for me. It's making life better for all of us.
3) I am grateful that I've actually been getting out and doing things with friends lately. It's so nice to have time with other females and time away from the house. Also with that I have a fourth thing, I guess, in that I am SO SO SO grateful for a husband who encourages me to get out of the house and doesn't complain in the slightest about being left with the kids whenever I want to go. He's amazing. I love him.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Surgery For The B Man
I've now done 8 full days of the FlyLady thing (on its own seperate blog). For the most part, it's going quite well for me.
Caleb's rash is gone and the flaky skin is almost fully cleared up. He had swimming again yesterday and did everything his teacher asked him to do. His confidence is growing so much. He used goggles and I think it made a huge difference. He loves to swim so much.
Ty is his usual self, although he seems to be a bit more willing to behave the past few days.
Brettley went and saw his opthalmologist yesterday. He is being booked in for what they call "bilateral strabismus repair", in which they'll weaken his eye muscles in the middle and hopefully he won't be in a permanent state of crossed eyes anymore. The surgery is only 70% effective the first time around, so there's a 30% chance that he'll need to have a second surgery. The doctor said that he'll be in glasses until he's a teen.
Not too much else is new. This Saturday will be a year since I got the biggest surprise of my life. Brettley will be celebrating his 1st birthday. We're having a roast dinner with my dad (his birthday is next week). Then John and I are going to a pizza & pasta night for adults at church and my dad is going to watch the boys. I'm excited for it. Life has been great lately.
Caleb's rash is gone and the flaky skin is almost fully cleared up. He had swimming again yesterday and did everything his teacher asked him to do. His confidence is growing so much. He used goggles and I think it made a huge difference. He loves to swim so much.
Ty is his usual self, although he seems to be a bit more willing to behave the past few days.
Brettley went and saw his opthalmologist yesterday. He is being booked in for what they call "bilateral strabismus repair", in which they'll weaken his eye muscles in the middle and hopefully he won't be in a permanent state of crossed eyes anymore. The surgery is only 70% effective the first time around, so there's a 30% chance that he'll need to have a second surgery. The doctor said that he'll be in glasses until he's a teen.
Not too much else is new. This Saturday will be a year since I got the biggest surprise of my life. Brettley will be celebrating his 1st birthday. We're having a roast dinner with my dad (his birthday is next week). Then John and I are going to a pizza & pasta night for adults at church and my dad is going to watch the boys. I'm excited for it. Life has been great lately.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
FlyLady, New Goals And Scaly The Wonder Fish
There is yet another tab at the top. I'm doing FlyLady's 31 baby steps and decided to keep track of it. It's more about keeping accountable than anything else. *Edit - I took the tab off and made a separate blog for this. It just felt better that way.*
I don't feel good about having 12 goals this year. It's a big number and it feels overwhelming, so I decided to knock it back to 3.
1) Hold FHE every week (Month 1 = 100%).
2) Read the New Testament and Book of Mormon all the way through (I'm currently in Luke).
3) Take the kids to the park at least once every other week during Caleb's summer vacation.
Caleb has been looking a lot better and his skin is starting to smooth out. He'll go back to school tomorrow and hopefully be able to go swimming this evening. Yep, that's about it for now. I'm just working on my baby steps.
I don't feel good about having 12 goals this year. It's a big number and it feels overwhelming, so I decided to knock it back to 3.
1) Hold FHE every week (Month 1 = 100%).
2) Read the New Testament and Book of Mormon all the way through (I'm currently in Luke).
3) Take the kids to the park at least once every other week during Caleb's summer vacation.
Caleb has been looking a lot better and his skin is starting to smooth out. He'll go back to school tomorrow and hopefully be able to go swimming this evening. Yep, that's about it for now. I'm just working on my baby steps.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Super Clean and Scaly Child
Caleb has to miss both swimming classes this week, so sad. On Saturday morning I noticed he had some sort of rash on his face. It was actually covering his entire upper body and has since moved all the way down to his feet. It was caused by some kind of viral infection and he's confined until Thursday at the earliest. However, because I was stuck at home with him yesterday and we seem to never be able to escape illness in our house, I decided to give their room a complete cleaning (he shares a room with Brettley). Their walls, baseboards, light fixture and furniture were all washed, windows cleaned, carpets steamed. We took out all of the baby stuff that needs to go into storage, organzied everything and rearranged the furniture. I also made them new curtains, as Ty had found some safety scissors and decided to give their old ones a bit of flair.
I've also cleaned and organized my linen closet, which I've been meaning to do pretty much since we moved in. Now we're tackling even more of the house today. It's nice to feel so productive. I've gone a week without any vertigo symptoms, which is really nice. Now I'm just trying to deal with a scaly child, getting my house in order and getting ready for B's first birthday, which is the 11th. Well, I think that's about all for now.
I've also cleaned and organized my linen closet, which I've been meaning to do pretty much since we moved in. Now we're tackling even more of the house today. It's nice to feel so productive. I've gone a week without any vertigo symptoms, which is really nice. Now I'm just trying to deal with a scaly child, getting my house in order and getting ready for B's first birthday, which is the 11th. Well, I think that's about all for now.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
My Little Fish
Caleb started another swimming class yesterday. He's in the 4 and 5 Beginners class, because I didn't know if he was ready for Advanced/Enriched. Magrath organizes their pre-Swim Kids classes different so I didn't know the equivalent here of what he took in the summer. He is the only kid registered in his class and has a male instructor. I'm very happy about both of those things. Caleb LOVES attention and does a lot better with a male as his teacher.
I'm already looking at when he will take his next class, and hopefully we can get Ty in the pool somehow for a class as well. I'll be taking him to the pool once in a while over the next couple of months and hopefully he'll build enough confidence to go in Super 3s. Swimming is the only thing that Ty's timid about.
That's about it for today though, because I need to get ready to pick Caleb up from school. Have a good one!
I'm already looking at when he will take his next class, and hopefully we can get Ty in the pool somehow for a class as well. I'll be taking him to the pool once in a while over the next couple of months and hopefully he'll build enough confidence to go in Super 3s. Swimming is the only thing that Ty's timid about.
That's about it for today though, because I need to get ready to pick Caleb up from school. Have a good one!
Friday, January 20, 2012
Attitude of Gratitude Day
I know that I normally do this on a Thursday, but there's only 1 left this month and I'm thinking about it today, so I decided to just go for it.
I am grateful that I'm actually able to do housework today. I never thought I'd hear myself say that. After being super dizzy for over a week, I'm just so thankful to be able to contribute to a clean house again. I feel so much better in a clean home:)
I am grateful that the boys love their new chore charts that I made them. Each week day they are responsible for 2 chores. I was originally just going to start with Ty since he's with me all day, but Caleb got so excited about the idea that I made a second set. Their favorite chore is putting the clean silverware away. I love seeing them so excited about responsibility.
I am grateful that my TV died. It has been very nice having the boys focusing more on physical play and reality than wanting to watch movies all of the time. That being said, I'm also grateful that my dad is buying us a new TV for the times that I need Ty to be occupied for 30 mins. Either way, I'm good:)
Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!
I am grateful that I'm actually able to do housework today. I never thought I'd hear myself say that. After being super dizzy for over a week, I'm just so thankful to be able to contribute to a clean house again. I feel so much better in a clean home:)
I am grateful that the boys love their new chore charts that I made them. Each week day they are responsible for 2 chores. I was originally just going to start with Ty since he's with me all day, but Caleb got so excited about the idea that I made a second set. Their favorite chore is putting the clean silverware away. I love seeing them so excited about responsibility.
I am grateful that my TV died. It has been very nice having the boys focusing more on physical play and reality than wanting to watch movies all of the time. That being said, I'm also grateful that my dad is buying us a new TV for the times that I need Ty to be occupied for 30 mins. Either way, I'm good:)
Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!
Monday, January 16, 2012
Vertigo...Again
I woke up this morning for the fifth morning in a row with dizziness. We took a day without pay (ouch!) and John took me to the Medicentre. I have vertigo that could take anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks to go away. I did get some pills to help with the dizziness though that have kicked in now. I've spent a lot of time over the past 5 days on Netflix (love it) and pinterest (absolutely adore it). I've been trying to find my fashion style, as I'll be needing a lot of new clothes by the end of the year. Pinterest has been a huge help with that.
I have had a realization in the last couple of weeks. L is turning 8 this year. What an amazing thing! I am ever so grateful for her and her amazing parents. They are such a positive force in my life and I'm so blessed to have this connection with them.
2012 is going to be such an amazing year. I'm excited to get to a healthy weight, for L to get baptized, for Caleb to start grade 1 and whatever else the year may bring us. Life is good. Life is very good.
I have had a realization in the last couple of weeks. L is turning 8 this year. What an amazing thing! I am ever so grateful for her and her amazing parents. They are such a positive force in my life and I'm so blessed to have this connection with them.
2012 is going to be such an amazing year. I'm excited to get to a healthy weight, for L to get baptized, for Caleb to start grade 1 and whatever else the year may bring us. Life is good. Life is very good.
Friday, January 13, 2012
Yeah, I'm Still Here
I promise, I'm still alive. I just haven't had a lot to post about. Other than having vertigo yesterday and my TV giving up the ghost (it was younger than Ty).
My weight loss basically stalled in the last week. For a personal and very good reason, I decided to take a break from counting my calories and being super focused on what I was going to do that day to shed weight. Long story short without all of the details, I was becoming too obsessed and weight loss is NOT something I want to become obsessed with. In the next week or two I will pick it back up a a slower pace.
I am (mostly) enjoying my new calling. It's teaching me patience and forcing me to use my new phrase ("not my problem") a lot more. I was getting stressed out if I didn't have every little detail I needed on Saturday morning until John finally told me "Just do what you can with what you have. You send out weekly reminders, so if they don't get it to you then it's their fault."
Brettley is still in glasses and is slowly learning to sit on his own. He does things at a slow rate and it's hard to know how much of it is him being a preemie and how much is his personality, as he is a very laid back child (usually).
Ty has, for the most part, mastered day time toilet training. He gets to go for a ride on the bus and LRT with Daddy tomorrow as a reward. He also gets a juice box every day that Caleb has school. He started Sunbeams this month and it will take a while for him to get used to it as he's always on the go and never wants to stop for anything.
Caleb is now in CTR 5 with a male teacher who is preparing for a mission. He isn't in the same primary class as his cousin, which I think will be great for them as they don't behave well together a lot and they are in the same Kindergarten class at school. He is learning how to read and loves it.
So yeah, I don't think too much else is new here. We're working on a plan to replace our TV. For now we'll just enjoy Netflix on our computer and phones. My vertigo is not as bad today, I'm at least functional again. So things are good.
My weight loss basically stalled in the last week. For a personal and very good reason, I decided to take a break from counting my calories and being super focused on what I was going to do that day to shed weight. Long story short without all of the details, I was becoming too obsessed and weight loss is NOT something I want to become obsessed with. In the next week or two I will pick it back up a a slower pace.
I am (mostly) enjoying my new calling. It's teaching me patience and forcing me to use my new phrase ("not my problem") a lot more. I was getting stressed out if I didn't have every little detail I needed on Saturday morning until John finally told me "Just do what you can with what you have. You send out weekly reminders, so if they don't get it to you then it's their fault."
Brettley is still in glasses and is slowly learning to sit on his own. He does things at a slow rate and it's hard to know how much of it is him being a preemie and how much is his personality, as he is a very laid back child (usually).
Ty has, for the most part, mastered day time toilet training. He gets to go for a ride on the bus and LRT with Daddy tomorrow as a reward. He also gets a juice box every day that Caleb has school. He started Sunbeams this month and it will take a while for him to get used to it as he's always on the go and never wants to stop for anything.
Caleb is now in CTR 5 with a male teacher who is preparing for a mission. He isn't in the same primary class as his cousin, which I think will be great for them as they don't behave well together a lot and they are in the same Kindergarten class at school. He is learning how to read and loves it.
So yeah, I don't think too much else is new here. We're working on a plan to replace our TV. For now we'll just enjoy Netflix on our computer and phones. My vertigo is not as bad today, I'm at least functional again. So things are good.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
The Real Me, 2011 and Goals For 2012
Last night we went out to friends/family's house to ring in the new year after a nice supper at home. It was a great day all around and we really enjoyed getting out of the house without kids. On the way home John made a comment that really stuck with me. He said that other than briefly during our engagement and maybe the first month of our marriage, these past couple of months have been the first time he's really seen the real me. It made sense. As soon as I got pregnant with Caleb I got sick and since then we've been shuffling between sick and in severe pain during pregnancy, postpartum depression and bipolar. It wasn't an easy thing to go through, so I'm sure it wasn't easy for John to live with, but he stuck by my side through it all. So many people have told me how much of a difference my losing weight has made for me. I'm really enjoying how much better I feel.
I have mixed feelings about 2011. It didn't get off to the best start. I was having a very tough time with my pregnancy and bipolar and ended up having Brettley 7 weeks early. I had to leave a hospital without a baby for a second time and wasn't allowed to be left without another adult for over a week after that because it was so hard on me. My heart was torn for weeks between home and the NICU.
Most of the year was just kind of there. I'm pretty indifferent to a lot of it. However, the past few months have been wonderful. Losing weight and having that be such a huge load off of my disorder has been amazing. Finding out that there's still a baby girl waiting to come to us in a few years meant more to me than I'll ever be able to express.
So there have been some really hard things that I went through in 2011, but some really wonderful things have happened as well. I guess the main thing is that I'm looking forward to getting even healthier in 2012 and trying to become an even better person. I'm also looking forward to my only sibling getting married.
I accomplished 6 of my 11 goals for 2011 that I set early in the year, which is technically a pass. I also came close to accomplishing another. So here are my 12 goals for 2012:
1) Reach my goal weight and maintain it.
2) Take the kids to the park at least once every other week during the summer.
3) Go to Wainmo for a visit (I haven't been there in over 18 months).
4) Teach Brettley to sit on his own.
5) Go to the temple every month.
6) Hold FHE every week.
7) Buy all of Caleb's school supplies before the end of July.
8) Read the New Testament and the Book of Mormon all the way through.
9) Make it through the year without having a relapse.
10) Take more care with my appearance.
11) Start saving to go to Utah again.
12) Put more effort into exercising.
I have mixed feelings about 2011. It didn't get off to the best start. I was having a very tough time with my pregnancy and bipolar and ended up having Brettley 7 weeks early. I had to leave a hospital without a baby for a second time and wasn't allowed to be left without another adult for over a week after that because it was so hard on me. My heart was torn for weeks between home and the NICU.
Most of the year was just kind of there. I'm pretty indifferent to a lot of it. However, the past few months have been wonderful. Losing weight and having that be such a huge load off of my disorder has been amazing. Finding out that there's still a baby girl waiting to come to us in a few years meant more to me than I'll ever be able to express.
So there have been some really hard things that I went through in 2011, but some really wonderful things have happened as well. I guess the main thing is that I'm looking forward to getting even healthier in 2012 and trying to become an even better person. I'm also looking forward to my only sibling getting married.
I accomplished 6 of my 11 goals for 2011 that I set early in the year, which is technically a pass. I also came close to accomplishing another. So here are my 12 goals for 2012:
1) Reach my goal weight and maintain it.
2) Take the kids to the park at least once every other week during the summer.
3) Go to Wainmo for a visit (I haven't been there in over 18 months).
4) Teach Brettley to sit on his own.
5) Go to the temple every month.
6) Hold FHE every week.
7) Buy all of Caleb's school supplies before the end of July.
8) Read the New Testament and the Book of Mormon all the way through.
9) Make it through the year without having a relapse.
10) Take more care with my appearance.
11) Start saving to go to Utah again.
12) Put more effort into exercising.
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