So my (short) spiritual thought for this month...I've been thinking a lot about Personal Progress lately. What an amazing program available to the Young Women. I have finished it 3 times within the past 3.5 years (also finished the Honor Bee in there once) and have started it for a fourth time. It is such a HUGE testimony builder for me. I have also had the privilege of helping 3 girls finish the program very early on (2 to 2.5 years). I am absolutely certain that this program was inspired by Heavenly Father and would highly encourage any woman at any stage in her life to do it (or do it over again). I LOVE it!
Sorry this isn't longer. It's Brettley's birthday so I'm busy cooking and baking today, plus we have our annual suite inspection today and I'm also getting all of my last minute stuff done for my trip to Calgary since I'm leaving at 6 tomorrow morning.
The goings on of our geeky little family and the musings and soapbox moments of the lone female in the group.
Showing posts with label Personal Progress. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Personal Progress. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Thursday, September 11, 2014
Thankful Thursday
In an effort to post more regularly on my blog and also to help with trials I'm currently facing, I've decided it's time to resurrect Thankful Thursday. Each Thursday I will post about 3 things that I'm thankful for.
1) I am incredibly thankful for both of my parents. My mum who helps me work through things when I'm feeling stuck and like I'm at my limit. Who is able to see solutions that I can't see in the moment, and even recognize what the stress is when I myself I don't know it. Who is working so hard to help with Caleb's baptism and to make the day a success when she herself is not a member of our church and doesn't fully understand why it is so important to us. She constantly amazes me. And my dad, who is always willing to help me at the drop of a hat and never asks for anything in return. Who helps where he can, but constantly recognizes that John and I are able to make our own decisions for our family and fully respects that. I am truly blessed to be the daughter of these 2 amazing people.
2) I am thankful for the Mia Maids in our ward. Oh, how much I love these girls, who I have had the privilege of serving over and over again. Who are constantly inspiring me, amazing me and helping to bring joy to my life. One of whom who has decided to come and do cleaning in my home that I can no longer do for myself, even before I suggested that she make it her Good Works value project. I don't think I could ever love a group of girls more than this group, and I am so thankful to yet again be serving them at this point in time.
3) I am thankful that I got my motivation back for working on round 3 of Personal Progress. The program always brings me so much happiness and strength. It gives me more of a sense of purpose. There aren't enough words to express how much I love Personal Progress.
1) I am incredibly thankful for both of my parents. My mum who helps me work through things when I'm feeling stuck and like I'm at my limit. Who is able to see solutions that I can't see in the moment, and even recognize what the stress is when I myself I don't know it. Who is working so hard to help with Caleb's baptism and to make the day a success when she herself is not a member of our church and doesn't fully understand why it is so important to us. She constantly amazes me. And my dad, who is always willing to help me at the drop of a hat and never asks for anything in return. Who helps where he can, but constantly recognizes that John and I are able to make our own decisions for our family and fully respects that. I am truly blessed to be the daughter of these 2 amazing people.
2) I am thankful for the Mia Maids in our ward. Oh, how much I love these girls, who I have had the privilege of serving over and over again. Who are constantly inspiring me, amazing me and helping to bring joy to my life. One of whom who has decided to come and do cleaning in my home that I can no longer do for myself, even before I suggested that she make it her Good Works value project. I don't think I could ever love a group of girls more than this group, and I am so thankful to yet again be serving them at this point in time.
3) I am thankful that I got my motivation back for working on round 3 of Personal Progress. The program always brings me so much happiness and strength. It gives me more of a sense of purpose. There aren't enough words to express how much I love Personal Progress.
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
And Back Here On The Positive Side...
Yesterday's post was focused on the tough things I'm struggling with, so I felt that I needed to post some positive things today to balance it out a bit (and maybe as a precaution so that people don't think I'm totally losing it again). So what are some good things that have happened this school year?
Brettley ended up catching up enough in his development that we were able to remove him from the Early Intervention Program. He's actually become quite the articulate little boy. He's still on the short side, but very well proportioned. He's hilarious and adorable.
Tyrell benefited greatly from having an awesome teacher for a few months in the middle of the school year, and will be able to go through to grade 1 next year (we weren't sure if he'd be able to or not). He has actually matured a lot during this year, but is still as random and funny as ever.
Caleb has become quite the voracious reader. It's something that's beneficial, and makes him feel better about himself when he finishes particularly big books. He has already finished the first 3 Harry Potter books and is halfway through the fourth, on top of the hundreds of other books he has read in this school year alone. We have learned that he LOVES science and his exceptionally good memory is very helpful when he wants to tell us about the latest fact he's discovered.
John was able to work a bunch of overtime this spring, and as a result we'll be able to have 2 weeks of holidays this summer. We'll be visiting his family in Magrath first, and then we'll be going to visit my uncle and aunt in North Battleford. We are SO excited to be able to do this, as last summer, his holidays were only 2 days off for Brettley's surgery. The kids are looking forward to the trips as well.
My dad has been one of the biggest blessings we have as a family, there to help us out whenever we need him, which has been a lot because of all of the appointments, school events and other things that come up.
I got called back in to Young Women!!! This was HUGE for me. It was almost like I physically felt myself coming back to life when this happened. I finished Personal Progress for a second time and am currently working on round 3. I love the Young Women program so much, and it is where I thrive the most. I am enjoying every single week that I'm blessed to be serving there again. It has also helped me start to develop a good relationship with one of my nieces, which I value so much.
I started playing Dungeons and Dragons with John. This may not seem like a big deal, but it's a way for us to spend lots of time together where we're actually interacting and conversing, as opposed to just watching TV or movies together. It's something that we really enjoy doing and it has brought us even closer together. It's been so much fun!
Brettley ended up catching up enough in his development that we were able to remove him from the Early Intervention Program. He's actually become quite the articulate little boy. He's still on the short side, but very well proportioned. He's hilarious and adorable.
Tyrell benefited greatly from having an awesome teacher for a few months in the middle of the school year, and will be able to go through to grade 1 next year (we weren't sure if he'd be able to or not). He has actually matured a lot during this year, but is still as random and funny as ever.
Caleb has become quite the voracious reader. It's something that's beneficial, and makes him feel better about himself when he finishes particularly big books. He has already finished the first 3 Harry Potter books and is halfway through the fourth, on top of the hundreds of other books he has read in this school year alone. We have learned that he LOVES science and his exceptionally good memory is very helpful when he wants to tell us about the latest fact he's discovered.
John was able to work a bunch of overtime this spring, and as a result we'll be able to have 2 weeks of holidays this summer. We'll be visiting his family in Magrath first, and then we'll be going to visit my uncle and aunt in North Battleford. We are SO excited to be able to do this, as last summer, his holidays were only 2 days off for Brettley's surgery. The kids are looking forward to the trips as well.
My dad has been one of the biggest blessings we have as a family, there to help us out whenever we need him, which has been a lot because of all of the appointments, school events and other things that come up.
I got called back in to Young Women!!! This was HUGE for me. It was almost like I physically felt myself coming back to life when this happened. I finished Personal Progress for a second time and am currently working on round 3. I love the Young Women program so much, and it is where I thrive the most. I am enjoying every single week that I'm blessed to be serving there again. It has also helped me start to develop a good relationship with one of my nieces, which I value so much.
I started playing Dungeons and Dragons with John. This may not seem like a big deal, but it's a way for us to spend lots of time together where we're actually interacting and conversing, as opposed to just watching TV or movies together. It's something that we really enjoy doing and it has brought us even closer together. It's been so much fun!
Monday, June 2, 2014
Um, I'm Still Here
Okay, it's been over 2 months. I'd say I'm long overdue for a blog post. Since then I have finished my second round of Personal Progress and started on round 3 this morning. I just can't get enough of that program. I am still the Mia Maids adviser in our ward, just under a different presidency. I got to experience pneumonia for the first time in April, which was incorrectly diagnosed as a viral cold the first time I went in to see a doctor. I will NEVER see him again, since I was completely symptomatic for pneumonia and he totally shrugged it off without even ordering chest x-rays. Thankfully, my mother-in-law was here the first week that I had it to take care of the kids, and then my mum and dad both helped me out the second week. Caleb got it as well, but I knew what I was looking for, so he didn't get remotely as sick as I had.
The other week I had a spa day with my mum. It was great to spend some time with her, although it reminded me that I don't relax well (oops). This past weekend I was in Lethbridge for my brother's convocation from the U of L. He earned his Bachelor of Management. I went down with my dad, which means that I had 2 full days without John and the kids. Remember what I said about how I don't relax well? Yeah, still true here. I'm so glad that I was able to go and support him, though. Also, we had an AMAZING (!!!!!!) meal at Firestone on Friday. Hands down the best meal I've ever had in a restaurant.
Now we're buckling down for the last month of the school year (when did that happen?!?). Track and field day this week, pancake breakfast next week, field trip the week after where I'm am volunteering and then after that it will be the last week of school. Throw in a YW leadership meeting, temple recommend interview, child psychiatrist appointment, 2 baby showers, Father's day, camp prep and a birthday party and you end up with a VERY busy month ahead of us. I have YW camp the week after school lets out, which I'm really excited for and desperately praying to not have another lice experience this time around (ha ha).
In even bigger news, we actually get to take summer holidays this year, YAY :D John will be off of work for two and a half weeks. We'll be in Magrath for over a week, home for a day for dental consults for Caleb and Tyrell, and then in North Battleford for a bit to visit my uncle and aunt (under far better circumstances than the last 2 times).
I got to officially let the school know this morning that we will not be keeping Tyrell in kindergarten for a second year next year. They asked us to seriously consider it, but after talking to several people, we decided that we'd prefer him to repeat grade 1 if necessary, rather than kindergarten. I've already started buying school supplies for the boys for next year. (I may or may not absolutely ADORE buying school supplies)
So that's what's be going down and what's in store for the Bly family. I am most looking forward to not being stuck at home all summer this year. What are you looking forward to the most in SUMMER 2014?
The other week I had a spa day with my mum. It was great to spend some time with her, although it reminded me that I don't relax well (oops). This past weekend I was in Lethbridge for my brother's convocation from the U of L. He earned his Bachelor of Management. I went down with my dad, which means that I had 2 full days without John and the kids. Remember what I said about how I don't relax well? Yeah, still true here. I'm so glad that I was able to go and support him, though. Also, we had an AMAZING (!!!!!!) meal at Firestone on Friday. Hands down the best meal I've ever had in a restaurant.
Now we're buckling down for the last month of the school year (when did that happen?!?). Track and field day this week, pancake breakfast next week, field trip the week after where I'm am volunteering and then after that it will be the last week of school. Throw in a YW leadership meeting, temple recommend interview, child psychiatrist appointment, 2 baby showers, Father's day, camp prep and a birthday party and you end up with a VERY busy month ahead of us. I have YW camp the week after school lets out, which I'm really excited for and desperately praying to not have another lice experience this time around (ha ha).
In even bigger news, we actually get to take summer holidays this year, YAY :D John will be off of work for two and a half weeks. We'll be in Magrath for over a week, home for a day for dental consults for Caleb and Tyrell, and then in North Battleford for a bit to visit my uncle and aunt (under far better circumstances than the last 2 times).
I got to officially let the school know this morning that we will not be keeping Tyrell in kindergarten for a second year next year. They asked us to seriously consider it, but after talking to several people, we decided that we'd prefer him to repeat grade 1 if necessary, rather than kindergarten. I've already started buying school supplies for the boys for next year. (I may or may not absolutely ADORE buying school supplies)
So that's what's be going down and what's in store for the Bly family. I am most looking forward to not being stuck at home all summer this year. What are you looking forward to the most in SUMMER 2014?
Friday, March 28, 2014
Friday Update
So I decided to do an update today!
Brettley has spent most of the last few months sick. He finally started doing better late last week. He gets sick a lot more than the other 2 ever did. He's also a very opinionated and belligerent 3 year old boy, but oh so adorable.
Ty is currently sick. He did very well on his last report card and has progressed so much since he got a new teacher at the beginning of February. He now has the teacher that Caleb had, who I adore and she is just amazing with the kids. We are starting to notice him maturing as well, which is always reassuring.
Caleb is...He's Caleb. We've been trying to deal with some pretty big mental health issues with him this year, so we're still in the middle of trying to figure out what the problem even is. We've had 2 psychologists tell us that, yes, there is a problem and cause for concern, but they're not sure what the specific problem is. When the issue isn't bothering him, though, he's doing great. He's getting a new "to him" bed from Grandma Jo in a few weeks, which is a double, so he's very excited about that.
John is as normal, busy working during the day and helping me hold down the fort during evenings and weekends. He's been great about dealing with sick kids while I've been doing my calling this past month.
I am doing well. I have officially lost the first 10 lbs in my weight loss, which feels AMAZING! I got to box up almost all of my plus size clothing the other week to take to Value Village. I have been doing great with plugging away at my Personal Progress and have already finished 2 of the values (Faith and Virtue). I believe I'm almost halfway done all of Personal Progress... I am still loving my calling. The girls are amazing and so inspiring. I love them!
Brettley has spent most of the last few months sick. He finally started doing better late last week. He gets sick a lot more than the other 2 ever did. He's also a very opinionated and belligerent 3 year old boy, but oh so adorable.
Ty is currently sick. He did very well on his last report card and has progressed so much since he got a new teacher at the beginning of February. He now has the teacher that Caleb had, who I adore and she is just amazing with the kids. We are starting to notice him maturing as well, which is always reassuring.
Caleb is...He's Caleb. We've been trying to deal with some pretty big mental health issues with him this year, so we're still in the middle of trying to figure out what the problem even is. We've had 2 psychologists tell us that, yes, there is a problem and cause for concern, but they're not sure what the specific problem is. When the issue isn't bothering him, though, he's doing great. He's getting a new "to him" bed from Grandma Jo in a few weeks, which is a double, so he's very excited about that.
John is as normal, busy working during the day and helping me hold down the fort during evenings and weekends. He's been great about dealing with sick kids while I've been doing my calling this past month.
I am doing well. I have officially lost the first 10 lbs in my weight loss, which feels AMAZING! I got to box up almost all of my plus size clothing the other week to take to Value Village. I have been doing great with plugging away at my Personal Progress and have already finished 2 of the values (Faith and Virtue). I believe I'm almost halfway done all of Personal Progress... I am still loving my calling. The girls are amazing and so inspiring. I love them!
Monday, October 28, 2013
Nikki's Personal Progress 2.0
Last week I sat down and thought to myself "when was the last time I felt happy on a regular basis?". I tend to struggle to be happy this time every year. As winter starts to come upon us, I feel miserable more than any other time of the year. As I went through past October blog posts, I realized there was one year where I wasn't struggling in October. It was the year that I was working on my Personal Progress. I was so focused on growing in my testimony and relearning things about Heavenly Father that the lack of sunlight and loss of warm weather didn't really seem to affect me. So last week I decided that the time has come to start working on Personal Progress again. I got a new book from our ward's Young Woman president, who sounded really excited that I wanted to work on it again so soon after completing it (May 2012). That means it's only been about 17 months, and even less since I finished earning my Honor Bee. But I am recognizing the importance of the program and the good that I know it can do in my life.
I started working on it on Friday. I will be working on 1 value experience, 1 value project and the Virtue value project at pretty much any given time. I will focus on 1 value at a time, instead of jumping all over the place. I decided to start at the beginning with Faith. Already, I feel so much love for this program and I feel so much more peace in my heart. I am very much looking forward to learning, relearning and growing closer to my Heavenly Father.
I started working on it on Friday. I will be working on 1 value experience, 1 value project and the Virtue value project at pretty much any given time. I will focus on 1 value at a time, instead of jumping all over the place. I decided to start at the beginning with Faith. Already, I feel so much love for this program and I feel so much more peace in my heart. I am very much looking forward to learning, relearning and growing closer to my Heavenly Father.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
6 Years, Christmas and The Final Report
As of today, John and I have been married for 6 years. It's been an amazing experience that I wouldn't trade for anything. I am so blessed to be his eternal companion. My mum has all 3 boys until Wednesday, so we're enjoying so peace and quiet for a few days.
Christmas went very well this year, which was a very nice change from last year. We spent time with family and I got to see 2 good friends, so it was a good time.
So yesterday was my last day of my 90 day Individual Worth project. I ended up losing a final total of 22.8 lbs in those 90 days. As I've mentioned in the past, I fully intend for the change to be permanent. I am SO SO SO grateful that I decided to do this as my project. I have felt so much better about myself and it has helped my bipolar so much as well. Several people have told me that they can see that the weight loss has made a difference in me emotionally as well as physically. I'm taking today off as John and I are having a nice supper and then going out to have a New Year's party with a few friends, but our goal in January is to exercise every single day. I have 2 Jillian Michaels DVDs and my Zumba game for the Wii, so I'm really looking forward to this new challenge. John is letting me put together an exercise program for him, so I'll be basing it off of the 30 Day Shred.
Anyway, I think that's about all for now, mostly I just wanted to get in the final info for my 90 day project. I hope you all have a wonderful 2012.
Any goals for 2012? Mine is to reach my goal weight, and I'm over halfway there:)
Christmas went very well this year, which was a very nice change from last year. We spent time with family and I got to see 2 good friends, so it was a good time.
So yesterday was my last day of my 90 day Individual Worth project. I ended up losing a final total of 22.8 lbs in those 90 days. As I've mentioned in the past, I fully intend for the change to be permanent. I am SO SO SO grateful that I decided to do this as my project. I have felt so much better about myself and it has helped my bipolar so much as well. Several people have told me that they can see that the weight loss has made a difference in me emotionally as well as physically. I'm taking today off as John and I are having a nice supper and then going out to have a New Year's party with a few friends, but our goal in January is to exercise every single day. I have 2 Jillian Michaels DVDs and my Zumba game for the Wii, so I'm really looking forward to this new challenge. John is letting me put together an exercise program for him, so I'll be basing it off of the 30 Day Shred.
Anyway, I think that's about all for now, mostly I just wanted to get in the final info for my 90 day project. I hope you all have a wonderful 2012.
Any goals for 2012? Mine is to reach my goal weight, and I'm over halfway there:)
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Weight, Personal Progress and Calling
You might notice that I now have a Lose It button up top. I'll be posting in there at least once a week with my progress. Also, I changed my ticker today because I couldn't resist after accomplishing my goal weight for 2011 that I made when I started everything in October.
So I realized that I haven't updated on my Personal Progress in a while. I have accomplished 18 goals and 1 value project and passed off my Virtue value. I am currently working on 2 goals and 2 projects. I have lots more fun goals and projects to look forward to in 2012, including doing temple work at least once per month.
I also got a new calling this past Sunday. I am now the ward bulletin editor and website administrator. It is almost all done at home, which will be very good for me right now. There's also a side project with the calling that I'm still working out in my head and with the bishopric, so more news to come on that one in the new year.
Well, off I go. Caleb is home from school today because he and Ty spent yesterday evening puking. On the plus side, I was able to deal with it, which is a HUGE step for me.
So I realized that I haven't updated on my Personal Progress in a while. I have accomplished 18 goals and 1 value project and passed off my Virtue value. I am currently working on 2 goals and 2 projects. I have lots more fun goals and projects to look forward to in 2012, including doing temple work at least once per month.
I also got a new calling this past Sunday. I am now the ward bulletin editor and website administrator. It is almost all done at home, which will be very good for me right now. There's also a side project with the calling that I'm still working out in my head and with the bishopric, so more news to come on that one in the new year.
Well, off I go. Caleb is home from school today because he and Ty spent yesterday evening puking. On the plus side, I was able to deal with it, which is a HUGE step for me.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
2 Months In...
It has been 2 months since I started what was supposed to be 90 days of eating healthy and exercising regularly. I've missed a fair amount of exercising due to illness and what not, but I've rarely messed up on staying in my calorie range. Like I said, I started it only intending to endure the 90 days. However, with so much progress I've decided to make it permanent. When I eventually get to my goal weight I will adjust my calories to maintain the weight instead of losing. I have gone from 20-22 jeans to 16s. As of this morning I have officially lost 16.6 lbs in 2 months, which is 6.6 lbs more than I'd originally expected to have lost by this point. I have lost 26.6 lbs since my heaviest point in June. The very best part, though, is what it's done for my mood. If you have me on facebook then you've probably noticed the difference. Cynical and negative Nikki has been disappearing. I've been so much happier and positive. Life just feels great. Not manic great, just happy great (I did take a step back to evaluate that this morning). My house work has been getting tackled way more.
It has started to bug me when people act like you can't lose weight by just counting your calories and exercising when possible. They act like you need some miracle diet or something and that what I'm doing is so basic that it must not work. But it does. I use a free app to count my calories and use exercise equipment that I already had (WiiFit Plus, recumbant bike, glider), and have actually been spending less on groceries, so it's been saving me money. No costly shakes or special foods. No costly gym fees. If you have enough will power, this is the greatest way to lose the weight.
Anyway, I will be making a change in January to my exercise. I will be doing Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred every day that month, just to kick it up a bit. It's going to kick my butt, I fully accept that going in. In fact, I'm hoping for it. My goal by the end of the month is to lose 3.5 more pounds. Pretty sure I can manage that one. Also, just for the record, I'm 0.4 lbs from my pre-Ty weight!!!! So what started as a personal progress value project has become a life changing experience for me. I love it and have no intention of looking back. Life is great!
It has started to bug me when people act like you can't lose weight by just counting your calories and exercising when possible. They act like you need some miracle diet or something and that what I'm doing is so basic that it must not work. But it does. I use a free app to count my calories and use exercise equipment that I already had (WiiFit Plus, recumbant bike, glider), and have actually been spending less on groceries, so it's been saving me money. No costly shakes or special foods. No costly gym fees. If you have enough will power, this is the greatest way to lose the weight.
Anyway, I will be making a change in January to my exercise. I will be doing Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred every day that month, just to kick it up a bit. It's going to kick my butt, I fully accept that going in. In fact, I'm hoping for it. My goal by the end of the month is to lose 3.5 more pounds. Pretty sure I can manage that one. Also, just for the record, I'm 0.4 lbs from my pre-Ty weight!!!! So what started as a personal progress value project has become a life changing experience for me. I love it and have no intention of looking back. Life is great!
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