Sher's Sweet Somethings

Keira wants to share her BiG secret!

2012-01-27T17:37:00.000-08:00

Yep, this lil' cutie pie is going to be a big sister this August!!!!! I know Keira is going to be such a good big sister. The last few months I've watched her be intrigued with babies and I think she's going to be a great little helper. We're so very grateful for our second angel on the way.

I'm due sometime in the first week of August, so it could possibly end up on my birthday! Aug. 3rd! Regardless of what day baby comes, it'll be such a blessing and the sweetest gift indeed. It's going to be a long hot summer, (but hopefully the nice spring weather we had last Spring will stay again well through June) And knowing how badly I swelled up last time, I'm expecting my feet to look like humongous sausages and have my 'cankles' again.

So far in this first trimester, I didn't get a lot of fatigue in the first half, but now it's catching up. I've had on and off nausea (not throwing up thankfully!) just feeling queasy and I had little tummy aches for awhile. Unlike my last pregnancy, I don't detest beef completely, but I do have to be in the mood and still don't like to look at raw meat, but I've been able to bear cooking it most of the time.

It was no wonder that I was pregnant when I found out, because just the week before I was downing jars of pickles like crazy, haha! But didn't think anything of it, because I like pickles, and hadn't eaten them in awhile, so I thought I was just enjoying them. So anyhow, whenever I got really nauseated I'd drink Ginger herbal tea (I like the Yogi brand, in the health food section.) And when ginger wasn't enough, lemon juice and yogurt helped, and ~strangely~ I found that sucking on a couple Sour Patch Kids helped my lessen my nausea! ha ha!

I'm glad I haven't been as picky with foods like my last pregnancy, but I still have to decide what appeals to me. I crave spicy foods a lot. And again like last time, I looove buffalo wing sauce, I asked for an extra side of it at Chili's so I could dip my veggies in it at home! (I enjoy doing that even when not pregnant!). Lately I must have navel oranges and buttermilk stocked in my fridge at all times. Thankfully I'm at the end of my first trimester so, my nausea is going away. I've been driving my husband crazy with my random worries. But I'm more relaxed now that I just had my recent check up.

So my favorite websites to read info and track my progress the most are: www.TheBump.com, www.Fitpregnancy.com, www.Pregnology.com, www.pregnancy-information-guide.com and www.babycenter.com.

Anyhow~ I'll bore ya with more baby buddha belly mumbo jumbo again soon. ~Yawn~

My lil' Chef

2012-01-13T16:43:00.000-08:00

e had a splendid Christmas. Taylor's parent stayed with us for a week. And it was fun to see Keira really enjoy spending time with them. Grandma (Janna) took her on couple walks with her, while I did some errands. And we went to the Children's Museum and Keira loved it. She loved the pretend grocery and cooking areas. But Janna and I were thoroughly pooped after two hours of chasing her around from area to area for two hours. And Keira was finally tired once we left.

She loved the kitchen at the museum.

Keira loved this cute circular reading nook. I'd love to have one in the house for her.

We gave Keira a play kitchen for Christmas and lots of fun play food etc. to go with it. And Grandma even got her a cute mixer that really works! I recorded Keira coming out of her room to capture her reaction. And...~sigh~ I'm such a mom... I started to choke up and tried not to whimper out loud, I don't know why I got emotional and teary-eyed from just watching her play with the kitchen. Having a child truly makes Christmas so much fun again. I don't even care what I get. I just wanna see that cute lil' face light up. Anyhow our lil' chef is loving her kitchen and always wants me to cook with her.

I got my first new sewing machine that I wanted! (well, nicer than the one I wanted! xo ) I am sooo excited to learn and make all the things I've always wanted to make! (hopefully!) I posted on FB: "I'm sooo excited to use my new sewing machine!!! I'll always kick myself for not wanting to learn when I was younger. And now I don't have my amazing seamstress mother living close anymore to help me get the hang of it easier. :P oh, well, let's see how far my guts and faith will get me! ;)"

On a side note, Keira is CRAZY about chocolate. She had a fair amount for the holidays. But I saved the rest for future rewards and for when we start potty training. Almost everyday on her own she'll ask randomly, "Some chocolate?" and start looking for some. And a few times I've asked her what she wants for breakfast or lunch and she replies of course, "Chocolate?!" ~ha ha! I have to make sure she can't see anything that looks like chocolate or else she freaks out. Eeks!

We had simple night on New Years and stayed home. And on January 7th, Taylor and I had our 6th wedding anniversary. We still need to actually celebrate it. But we'll probably just do something fun for Valentine's Day and celebrate it then. Even though my hubby isn't on Facebook (and never will be) I still posted something for him and told him what I put. But made sure is wasn't cheesy just for him.

"Today marks 6 years being married to my sweet husband Taylor! ~Thanks for your patience, putting up with me and toughing me up all these years. ♥ Happy Anniversary! ♥"

Taylor is an amazing husband and father. I admire him so much for how hard he works to support our family and I am grateful for all that I've learned from him. I'm profoundly & madly in love with him. And that love has grown deeper from all that we went through in those first tough years when he had to be away often working for long periods of time. Though it was hard, I know that he was doing all that he could so that he could take care us and make me happy. And all I want is to make him happy when he comes home everyday and always make him feel appreciated.

Toddler Tales

2011-12-07T09:35:00.001-08:00

Last night as I took my two and half year old daughter to bed, she immediately said, "Say prayer?" twice! and it made me smile and feel so grateful that she is learning and wanting to pray. I strive to make sure she is learning to see when we need to pray and that we can pray for everything. She's heard me pray to find my keys when they're missing. We pray for daddy and his safety. I even make sure she hears me pray that I will be more patient and be the best mom I can be for her. I think once you become a parent you really start to put yourself in check mode. Because anything I'm not doing that I should be doing, she won't be learning. So I'm grateful that I have to push myself even more to make sure she see's and learns what is important to our family. Which in turn she strengthens and teaches her father and I. The most important thing to me is teaching her to know her Heavenly Father and to gain a strong testimony. To always trust and stay close to the Lord.

Yesterday, I was tired and moody. And I overreacted and yelled at Keira for tipping a cup purposely upside down and getting water everywhere. I immediately hugged her and looked at her and said I was sorry for yelling at her and then I asked her if she forgives me. She responded, "That's okay mommy," twice. I was astounded when she had that response. It's just so evident that children really do learn fast and do soak up everything! I am grateful for that experience.

One of her lines she says all the time is, "Oops, that's okay, it happens!" :) it's so cute and makes me laugh everytime. She also says often, "I love ____" and she says the item or thing that she's doing or looking at. It's just darling. And boy does she love chocolate. If you even just say the word, she starts looking everywhere for it saying, "Chocolate?" hee, hee, hee. She's so good at washing her hands and saying, "thanks" and "you're welcome!" She's also been singing, "Twinkle, twinkle, whittle star," and "Row, Row, Row da boat!"

Keira has been getting more interested in sitting on the toilet a lot the last couple weeks. I got the Prince Lionheart Weepod toilet insert seat months ago, and she did not want to sit on it. But finally she wants to very often. So this past Sunday we tried to see if she would really try to use it. We got her go in her small potty once (but she had her undies still on, haha!) and then she did use real toilet one once. I gave her couple mini M&M's as her potty prize. It seemed to work well, but... the rest of this week, she hasn't wanted to try or even sit on either potty. Soo.....ugh. I'm trying to decide what to do, because I don't want to force her, since I've heard from many that it'll just make them not want to do it and make them hate it. Which will make it take longer for them to finally do it.

Well, yesterday morning I was on my way to get an eye exam. And as we almost got there, she barfed in the car. So I had to cancel it and go home to clean her up. She had eaten some yogurt and raspberries for breakfast. It's been a long time since she has barfed in the car. Since the two times in the summer (which were both from the string cheese she'd eaten.) So, again it was after she ate something that was dairy. It's just odd. Dairy and driving, just don't mix for her. She gets car sick or something. Sigh...poor thing. And seriously, why must they make the car seat so dang hard to take apart just to get off the dang cushion so you can wash it?!!!

Anyhow, it's tough keeping up to clean up all her little messes and random things tossed all around the place. But thanks to nursery, she's does help me clean up way more, while singing the 'clean-up' song. And on top of that, I'm begging my husband to clean his side of the room too. I told him for Christmas I want my room entirely clean and pretty. Haha!

I have been loving this cold weather! We're hoping to go up to Flagstaff soon to see Keira play in the snow for the first time. We reeeally need a little family outing. Keira and I are in desperate need of getting out the house and doing something fun as a fam.

Tube-ular ;)

2011-12-03T20:08:00.000-08:00

The last show I was hooked to was the "Glenn Beck Program" (well actually...pretty much Fox News in general). I had it on everyday. Practically all day. Which you can imagine what it did to me. I became a tea party lover, anti-Soros supporter, eager to learn history, concerned about my country, the world and the future for my family. But don't worry, I've calmed the Fox News and Beck obsession dramatically. I just watch here and there now! :)

Anyhow before that, I don't think I've been really hooked to any television series since I was a teen. I was obsessed with 'Felicity'. I could not miss an episode. I had to make sure to set it up to record on the VHS, hehe! I was smitten for Scott Foley. I loved the show mostly because, I was a hopeless romantic.

The last few years, besides watching stuff on HGTV and other random shows of interests and whatever my hubby was watching. I didn't care that I didn't have a show to be hooked on. I tried to watch a couple popular shows I heard were good, but found most of them distasteful or not my cup of tea. So, I was fine with watching, "Are you being served?" and "Seinfeld" reruns. I love those.

But this past fall, I decided to DVR some new shows that looked fun and just give'm a go. So my hubby and I have been watching, "New Girl", "Up All Night" and "Whitney". We really like them so far. There's a couple thangs here n' there, that are not favorable. But all-in-all, they're not too distasteful that I feel evil for watching (haha!). It's been kinda fun to have something that my husband and I get to look forward to enjoy and laugh at together. {While cuddled up on the couch holding hands..}

The other show I'm truly hooked to is, "Parenthood". It's not "trying too hard," if ya know what I mean. There's interesting plots throughout it. And the way they film and direct it, I find tasteful. It makes me laugh outloud. It makes me bawl. I even posted about it on Facebook confessing that "now it's my mom's turn to spy and laugh at me if I'm crying at any given moment about anything. It's the automatic default once becoming a mom. And deeply embracing life's moments." I'm fine with turning into my mom, in other areas that I swore I wouldn't. Because those things she did that I laughed at, are normal, when your a woman and a mom. :)

I also like, "Ringer" with good ol' Sarah Michelle Gellar. It's just a fun soap-opera like plot, but it's just fun and can't help but be hooked it.

Now that I have shows that I enjoy. I can't let them prioritize over things I should be doing. Believe me there's always times when I'm reeeally sick of the tube being on and just want it off for a long while and enjoy music or silence. And indeed when sports takes over...haha! (my man deserves to watch his sports of course, I just hate when it takes up so much time and then I get needy and want quality time together. I'm a typical needy wifey, I know.) But I know I'm married to a man...and to his love for sports. They go hand-in-hand. And I accepted that, haha!

Back to my point, I never want to get too sucked into the tube and let it consume too much of my time. Especially the time I should be reading my scriptures. But I don't feel guilty finally having some shows that help me unwind, give me some good laughter in at the end of the day. Hopefully the shows will remain good. Otherwise, I will turn off the tube. And wait another decade and try again. Haha.

Forget the turkey mom, I want pumpkin pie!

2011-11-29T13:56:00.000-08:00

She was dancing like a cute lil' 'Peanuts' character, it was so cute!

e had a nice quiet Thanksgiving as a family at home. Taylor helped me do a small turkey breast and I found a yummy marinade recipe for it, and it turned out so moist and delish! I admit I cheated and used instant organic mashed potatoes and stuffing, which they both tasted amazing! But I made my own sweet yams, deviled eggs and Paula Deen's Pumpkin Pie recipe and used Martha Stewart's Pate Brisee pie dough (Taylor loved the pie!) We ate in the early afternoon and Keira only ate a roll and some pumpkin pie, then she went out for a nap. So it was just Taylor and I enjoying our feast. I thought for sure she'd go crazy over the yams. Oh well, she's in a picky faze though. Taylor had his football game on...of course! And after Keira's nap we played some of our own toss football outside and I gave her a piggy back ride. She looooves piggy back rides! It was a perfect cool and cloudy day! :) Then I made Keira a turkey feather hat. She made the cutest lil' turkey eVer!

I decided the last week before Thanksgiving I'd post some things I'm grateful for on Facebook. Here's what I posted:

"I'm grateful for the amazing things I learned at church today. I love feeling the spirit."

"I'm grateful for my daughter. Her smile, laughter, silly personality and when she gives me running hugs. It's the greatest gift and bliss ever."

"I'm so grateful for my amazing husband. He's one of the hardest workers I've ever known. Always proving me that you can do anything you put your heart & mind into. And his crazy innate ability to truly have me figured out and knows how to always make me laugh, especially when I need to. There's not one day I don't feel lucky to be his wife. ♥ "

"I'm grateful for the many appliances that make life easier. I forever praise the women that did e-v-e-r-y-t-h-i-n-g before they existed. I'm reminded especially when one breaks...I'll never take them for granted! :D "

"So thankful for the Lord and all He's given me. Happy thanksgiving!"

We got our Christmas tree and house lights done over the weekend. And I pretty much got all my gift shopping done, even before black friday! Hah! :D

Keira & The Sugar Lollies!

2011-11-01T08:52:00.000-07:00

Keira gettin' ready to do a rock star jump off the ledge...not really of course, but someday! ;)

~Don't even think of taking her lollipop!

eira LOVED being a Rock Star for Halloween. Like I said before, she just loves saying,"I Rock!" at random moments. Just a few days ago she yelled it out loud in the grocery store, it was so cute and funny! She gets so excited to put her costume on! And she still has a boot fetish, she loooves her boots!

Rock Star is ready to pass out even before even trick-or-treating! not for long...

Rock Star is alive & kickin' after her sugar rush now! she loves lollies & chocolate!

I'm so thrilled with how her costume came out, it's exactly how I imagined it. For months I searched for the pieces I imagined for it. So I found the darling skirt and tights on Etsy, the skirt was exactly what I wanted, gray/black houndstooth with chains! They're both slightly big on her, but at least she'll now just get to wear it longer! :) Which makes it more worth the money too! You always think making your own costume will be cheaper...but nope, not for me this time...hahaha! I had fun designing her shirt myself! I hand-cut and embroidered the guitar, used an iron-on star and hearts for the tuners, and I used fabric silver glue and free-handed the words. And I made the bracelets.

I've been obsessed with sugar skull/day of the dead makeup. So I had to try doing my own! When Keira saw me she said,"Tiger! Rawr!" Hahaha! it was so funny! (I want to try doing some more versions...a scary one especially). And ya'll know I gotta have my fake lashes! I love these ones with rhinestones on each end! And I busted out my gothic wig again, it just went with the look so well ;)

Mr. Kitty perched right next to my pumpkins just as I clicked the picture of them ~ Purrr-fect timing! Haha! I carved a Jack Skellington design in the big pumpkin, and then did a cute lil' pumpkin face on Keira's pumpkin.

It took awhile for Keira to finally say, "Trick or Treat," while gettin' candy, and when she did, she yelled it loud and drawn out and made us and the neighbors all laugh! And then after that she would only say it cute and quietly!...haha! such a funny girl. I love her to pieces! Anyhow, hope your Halloween was spooktacular!

There's no such thing as fall in Arizona, in case ya didn't know.

2011-10-21T12:38:00.000-07:00

ast weekend Taylor and I went to the Evanescence concert, they have a new album out and I'm soo digging it. I begged Taylor to let me go as my early Christmas gift, plus we hadn't been on date in eons...and we love going to rock concerts and it'd been forever since we went to one. So he gave in! :) The opening bands playing were The Rival Sons, and the dude can sing! Definitely a nice & fun 70's rock feel...

And the other band was, The Pretty Reckless...Be ready to blown away by a natural born rock goddess...I couldn't wait to hear her live and indeed, she was AWESOME! Nice band choices Amy picked to tour with her!

Taylor Momsen's bluesy rock voice is sultry, sincere and enrapturing. She was in the TV series "Gossip Girls," (which I never watched) and now she's doing what she's always wanted to do, which is to sing. As we all know not many actors/actresses can pull off the singing thang...but Holy Mother of Rock-N-Roll...SHE CAN! She's only eighteen, which makes her talent even more incredible. So eat your hearts out Miley Cyrus, Ashley Tisdale, and all the rest of the annoying wanna-be gal actor/singers...haha! I can't wait to see her music evolve and hopefully keep real rock alive and burning. I wouldn't, of course, ever want my daughter, if she were older, to idolize her clothing style and raw melancholy lyrics, but I just can't resist rocking & working out to her! (And my husband too!)

"What you Want" ~the new single from Evanescence~

Amy Lee looked so thrilled to be back on stage and she sounded fantastic. I loved when she sang with just the piano. And her new band players sounded so good. I can't wait to listen to the new album! I didn't try to bring my camera into the concert, but I should've...Grrrrrrr! It was such an awesome concert.

Anyhow we also got to finally take Keira to a Pumpkin Patch for the first time. We went in the late afternoon and it was still in the high 90's!!!...how lame and unharvesty is that?! But Keira still had fun, she liked playing in the "Three Little Pig" houses they had. she was so cute dancing in them. And then we went through the small corn maze, which was actually fun and tricky (it'd definitely be fun at night). Keira didn't have any interest in the animals. And we saved the pumpkin patch for last, we had only been there an hour, and we were all hot and tired ,and Keira was very pink and awnry, hahaha...I knew I should've taken Keira's pictures by the pumpkins first...but luckily I gave her some food and she then was happy again and played around the pumpkins, so I managed to get a few pictures...none of which she looked at the camera, of course...

I was SOOO exhausted all day from staying up late after the concert, but I just had to take Keira to the pumpkin patch this year. I just get super pumped after concerts...but sheesh, I can tell I'm getting old...oh well, I'll always be a concert junkie.

Alas, my cute new fall weather boots and sweaters still sit stagnant in my closet....until this wretched hot weather goes away...~Sigh~

She Totally Rocks...

2011-09-02T17:39:00.000-07:00

lright...how sad is it that the entire month of August I was having fun brainstorming costume ideas for my lil' cutie pie, instead of swimming or doing something fun & summery? Seriously, I hate that I can't love summer ALL because it's too hot where I live! I tried to make the most of it with my girl, but ugh, summer here is just too darn hot! Instead, I was just giddily counting down when I could get ready to bust out fall decor. I think I could deal with this brutal nasty heat better if it'd at least cool down at night. I won't ever get used to the hot weather, staying well into sometimes even October...it really just seems like a crime in nature, even though it's the norm here. Anyhow, enough digressing! While having fun debating what to dress up my girl as for Halloween. I had decided on one, when suddenly I had to change it. Keira just loves watching the cartoon "Bubble Guppies," especially the episode about rock music! After watching her dance to it all summer and shouting daily, "I rock" into her pretend microphone, I realized...Hell-ooo! She has to be a ROCK STAR for Halloween!

Keira Totally RoCkS!!!

Isn't she adorable!!!!

(I had to upload the last video on youtube, since blogger wouldn't for some reason)

WARNING!

2011-08-26T00:26:00.001-07:00

My Pinterest followers know I'm just a wee bit addicted, so I had to create my own theory and warning, haha! Pinning is therapeutic, really. It helps you wind down & relax, whether it's pictures, quotes, decorating or stuff to get creative juices flowing. I've been sick of Facebook for quite a long while, it honestly, {gulp, don't hate me for saying it}, just feels like high school all over again sometimes. But of course I still log on and like to see what my far away friends are up to and post random things that no one cares about, haha! Pinterest is just more fun than Facebook. Because you can truly just be yourself, just by pinning & inserting captions on whatever the heck defines you and not care what anyone thinks! :) Speaking of, it's past midnight and I must get off Pinterest and get to bed! ~Zzzzzz~

Profound Reflections On Our Divine Creator

2011-08-24T12:36:00.000-07:00

I just loved this video the church posted on the Ensign page on Facebook. Excellent points made and neat quotes. It's very reflective. I love the quote he said from Astronomer Sir Arthur Eddington, "The more we learn abou the universe, the less it looks like a great machine, and the more it looks like a great thought." And I love how he said that science and religion represents two independent witnesses of creation, and when put together, it's like the vision seen with two eyes...the combination gives you a 3-dimensional perception.

"I Am God; I made the world and men before they were in the flesh." Moses 6:51

Nothing To Fear! Mommy Is HERE!

2011-08-10T20:35:00.000-07:00

o, I've concluded that becoming a mother enables, well...more so forces you, to conquer a lot of fears. For example when your husband isn't around to be the hero for killing the scary spiders. YOU become the hero. But you make it more bearable by using the Swiffer as a spider squasher, that way you don't have to get as close to it, but still squealing while you do it. Then afterwards you're paranoid there's another one somewhere just ready to make another fun surprise.

Then there's night time, whether it's before or during the faze of when your child gets scared of the dark...you can't BE. You gotta be the tough one showing that there's nothing to be scared of. But after you've calmed them and gotten them to sleep, as you make your way to bed, you triple check every lock in the house, grab a flashlight and as you take a deep breath, you turn the light out and make a mad dash into bed as if there IS a monster behind your back, then you throw the sheets over your head while singing happy songs and praying to calm your jittery nerves! (...I may never completely conquer the fear of the dark thang.)

But my recent fear buster has been....you guessed it....dun-dun-dunnn... Barf. Last Saturday after an exciting family outing at good ol' Costco, we were driving home and I had been glancing back at my usual happy little Keira, taking pictures of her with my cell phone. And then one of the times I glanced back at her, she looked at me with this concerned "uh-oh" look on her face. I said, "Awe, Keira are you okay? don't be sad..." Then I told Taylor about the 'look' that I had never seen before on her face. Then as my husband and I were chatting, we suddenly heard her making a choking sound. I had given her a cheese stick and some cookie Goldfish while were shopping. And we both looked back and saw her....toss the cookies....all over herself. Yay, the first car barf! ~woo-hoo!~

Poor Taylor doesn't have a very good gag reflex when he smells or sees vomit. I myself can't stand the sound, smell or look of it. Even if it's someone imitating it on a movie, I make Taylor skip it or mute it, because I hate the look or sound of it. But luckily to my surprise, I've been quite good at tolerating and maintaining a great gag reflex when facing it, at least with my child. We rolled down the windows and I kept consoling Keira and keeping her happy until we got home. Then we had to clean her and the whole car seat, etc. etc. Then I stayed home from church since we weren't sure if she was sick or not. She seemed back her to normal self. But then a few days later, tonight, I gave her another cheese stick an hour or so before heading out to meet up with my brother and his wife for dinner. And as I had just barely parked my car, before even turning off the engine....dun-dun-dunnnnn.....she tossed the cookies ~again! :P Anyhow, I'm trying to figure out if she's car sick or if it's the cheese. Because I gave her one yesterday and she was fine. But both times she tossed the cookies after eating that cheese and while driving in the car. So for now, I'm definitely NOT giving her those 'Frigo' cheese sticks!

As a mom, you must to the do stuff you've never done or or want to deal with. And before having your own kid, if someone else's kid barfs or has some other nasty accident, it was just un-bear-able... and you would find an easy excuse to escape the scene so you didn't have to deal with it. But once you're a mom, you become immune to it all. You don't have a choice, an excuse or a way of escape. Everything that was once terribly gross and unbearable to deal with, becomes no biggie and just becomes as normal and natural like everything else, eventually. Well, I can't wait for more future fear busters.... Ugh... Ha Ha!

Anyhow, onto a more fun subject...My husband was home for my birthday for the first time EVER!!! The enTire time I've known my husband these last 6 1/2 years (even while dating), has had to work out of town or state on my birthday. So I didn't get my hopes up for this year. But finally this time he was actually home! He surprised me with a sweet card and these fabulous pair of boots! ( I love seeing what kinda stuff he'd pick out for me, he really does an awesome job! :) I wouldn't have cared about him getting me a gift, since I was thrilled he was finally home.

My sweet sister Shantil surprised me with a cake and balloons, in which she was bummed that the bakery misspelled my name (of course, haha!). And she forgot candles so we just used Keira's candle from her birthday, haha!!! we just let it represent my last year in my 20's....(eeks! that's cra-zzzy!) She also gave me an original vintage 70's book copy of "What's Up Doc?" which is one of my favorite movies ever.

I love how in the picture above, my sister and I were both holding back our kiddo's from grabbing the cake, and we were totally oblivious to her son almost getting it, and that look on his face just starring at the frosting on his hand, as Keira looks like she's ready to do the same, is so hilarious! Hahaha!

I was also happy that my mom could be here for my birthday, she came down to finish up things to get her house ready to rent. My mom is my best friend, we always have a blast together. I'll miss her so much, but I'm so grateful that my dad was blessed with a good job. I can't wait to visit them and go to Tahoe, since they're so close to it!

Anyhow, I had my mom and Keira join Taylor and I for dinner, and we all went out to one of my favorite Italian restaurants Babbos! And I had the most amazing Three Cheese Macaroni, with Smokey Chipotle Cream Sauce blended with Cheddar, Mozzarella and Gorgonzola cheese, Bacon and Sausage on Penne Pasta, (I described it perfectly cause I just copied & pasted it from the site, haha!) It was SO delicious!!! And of course we all thoroughly enjoyed my free FATTENING dessert Zappoli (Fried Dough Balls topped with Honey, Sugar, Cinnamon, Vanilla Ice Cream and Whipped Topping) ~Droooooool~

And the perfect end to my birthday...RAIN! I was so thrilled when it started to rain after we left the restaurant. I savor every time it rains here in the desert, since we hardly get it! Keira and I had fun in the rain while it lasted. I had a lovely birthday, I appreciate all the sweet gifts from my friends and family. And I'm just so happy my husband was actually home. Being with him and my family was the best gift ever. For years I've been dying to go to the beach for my birthday, but it just never gets to happen. But this year I didn't even think about it once. All that mattered was being with my family. Who needs the beach?!

More than a Cyber Summer Fling...

2011-07-15T14:10:00.000-07:00

ou know you're having a lame-O summer when:

You're having more fun with your childs play dough than they are.
You're purposely taking cold showers with your swimsuit on while imagining your standing under a waterfall.
You're justifying your shopping spree to your husband because you were sick of having cabin fever and just wanted to get out of the house.
You're giddy about having more tan lines appear than your usual farmer's tan.
Your thrill for the day is re-living your teen years by listening to your favorite 90's grunge rock while reading your old journals while laughing at how naive & pathetic you were.
You're ridiculously excited to go to the dentist.
You're getting over-dressed to go grocery shopping since it's your "Me" time to finally get a break from your crazy kiddo.
And lastly, like those good ol' days of having a summer fling, you've made one, but not a human one, a cyber one, one with a seriously addiciting website called Pinterest, which makes you literally want to try, make and eat everything you see, but yet you have to force yourself to peel your eyes off the dang website and scurry to close the internet, if you ever want to try to attempt to make those vonderful ideas & things actually happen. And then ya kinda hafta remember to devote and cherish your quiet time with you and your man, instead of this compulsive cyber-fling. Because even though he doesn't show it, you know he's getting jealous of the relationship you've formed with it. Let alone, he isn't aware that you've made a new cyber-soulmate girlfriend from it, who shares the same interest in darn nearly every {little} thing. And he has no idea how dangerous it'll be if the two of you ever get the chance to go shopping together (..hopefully more than wishful thinking..). Anyhow, Pinterest may need to put a permanent warning banner, or better yet a web timer that will automatically log you off for a long duration, so it forces you to resume to your list of duties, as you know you should not procrastinate doing!!! :)

But! ....my dear Pinterest, I must tell you... you are truly my cyber-soulmate.
And well......i love you.
You are more than just a cyber-fling,
you're my cyber-dream! ♥ ♥ ♥

Keeping up with Miss Busy Bee

2011-06-30T10:55:00.000-07:00

For Father's Day I had to make this cute card idea that I found. You just trace your child's hand and then cut it out with paper doubled. Then just cut a long strip of paper and fold it over and under until it can fold in and out accordian style. Then you write "I love you" or "We love you" on the hand and inside write "this much" it's a darling way to have a cute memory of their little hand. He loved it!

And since he didn't get home till late on Father's Day since he had to work. I made him a yummy breakfast the next morning. Taylor is such a wonderful husband and father. I love watching Keira run to him when he gets home from work. He picks her up and she's so happy to see him. The first thing she does is take off his hat and put it on herself, or she'll take off his sunglasses and put them on. Then she loves to inspect what may be hiding in his shirt pocket. I keep telling him that he should hide something in there once in awhile just for her to find. She'd love that. Another cute thing Keira likes to do is when Taylor is sitting, she'll climb up to his shoulders and then slide down his stomach and say, "Wheee!" like she's going down a slide. It's so funny and cute! Anyhow, luckily I managed to finally get my husband to let me get a picture of him with our girl. (He's usually in his work clothes all dirty when I want to take pictures of him with Keira.) And I love this picture of them earlier this year at church.

Anyhow during Spring, I was fretting about what the heck I was going to do to entertain my toddler indoors all summer. Just a reminder, our Summer is our Winter here in Arizona, this is when we hibernate. You get burnt, parched and fatigued after just one hour outside. Let me tell you, it was soooooo, soooooo, soooooo, soooooo (hopefully you got the picture) nice to have a cooler May and June, the coolest in years, I savored every moment I could outside.

Anyhow, so far this is what I've done to keep the busy bee "busy". I got her play dough, (which by the way, I still love the smell of!) We use cookie cutters and shape toys to cut out the dough with. I like to make animals for her too (the one below is a pink dog). I got her a princess tent a couple months ago. Which will be fun for her to play in for a long time. I've taken her to the splash park and the swimming pool often. And she loves playing in the sprinklers. Back in May we were at the park and the huge sprinklers came on and she immediately left the playground to go play in them. I, of course, couldn't resist and joined her! heehee! I got her a fun water table. That way she can play under the patio cover so I don't have to worry about too much sun and she can still play with water, when we can't swim. (The only down side was that the heat caused the legs to reshapen and now it stands funny! :P)

She had to climb inside to try to swim in it! hahaha! And whenever she gets bored or has lost interest in almost everything, all I have to do is open my closet and she'll just start putting on my heels and walk around, change shoes, and play with my necklaces. She loves being in mom and dad's room (what kid doesn't?) She rocks at walking in high heels...Haha! She's always loved shoes, any shoes, ever since she could walk. She's also crazy about her boots from last fall. She loves to wear them. She still managed to get them on when I thought they woudn't fit (being barefoot helped) But yesterday, she put them on and her feet were squeezed in so tight, I just had to sneak them away and store them in the garage. I let her play in them as long as I could. Sad day. I'll miss her in those boots. But I'll get her a new pair this fall and hopefully she'll be just as crazy for them. The latest milestones for Keira has been being able to count to ten for awhile now. She's drank from sippy's for a long time now, but would only drink milk from her bottle, but I got her to stop almost two weeks ago, yay! Next thing to tackle. The binky. I try to give it to her when she sleeps, because she literally will not sleep without it. Even when I hide it during the day, she goes around and looks around for it saying, "binky?" ~sigh~ As for foods she's still a cheese freak like her mom. She loves PB&J sandwiches. And she hate's pickles. Keira also just did her first painting a few days ago. for weeks she's always grabbing my paint brushes and pretending to paint. So I let her try it and of course she loved it.

{Keira hates pickles, she got that from dad, which makes him happy!}

So we went to Chuck E. Cheese on Tuesday. And holy crapola! We ordered the pizza first and sat down to wait for it. Meanwhile Keira was freaking out in the high chair, dying to run around and explore. So since the pizza took forever, I took her out and followed her around and let her go on some rides. Then when the pizza finally came. She fought me while putting her back in her chair. And she just whined loudly and kept pushing away any food or drink we tried to give her. She even pushed away her favorite snack...'Annie's' fruit snacks! (they are so yummy, if I must say so myself!) So finally she realized her squawking wasn't getting her anywhere, she finally grabbed some pizza and took a chill pill. ~Whew-Wee!~ Crazy girl I tell ya.

Taylor and I chased her around a little more, she didn't care about the rides anymore, she was just running about everywhere. She is so fast and hard to hold on to, whether at home or anywhere else. Some toddlers her age are a bit more hyper than others I've noticed. And mine is one of them. Luckily she's not a real trouble maker. But I just pray this will be her crazy peak and then she'll mellow out a bit by age three. Mainly, I just want her to stay close to me when we go places. Because she's quite the busy bee, I always keep my eyes on her when we're out somewhere, but she is seriously fast. Buzzing from one thing to another. Like I said, she'a great work out. But if three is worse than two like some moms have experienced. Then Heaven help me! :D ~hahaha!~

The Best Pizza is Made At Home

2011-06-15T17:01:00.000-07:00

he last few months I've been mastering the wonderful pizza dough recipes my mom always made. Which was a huge family favorite. It also won the hearts of every guest she served it to as well. I'll never forget when the missionaries ate at least 5 whole pizza's each. It's obvious they ate as much as they could before reverting back to their normal Ramen noodle and Mac & Cheese diet. Anyhow, after posting on Facebook how thrilled I am that I can actually make the pizza just as good as my mom's. I had some requests for the recipe. So I posted it here since this glorious pizza cookbook is becoming rare and getting harder to find. I'm still stoked my mom found and gave me my very own copy as a Christmas gift. It's called "The Best Pizza is Made at Home" (revised version) by Donna Rathmell German. Here are a couple of my favorites.

Lemon Pepper Thin Crust

1 tsp. active dry yeast
2 cups bread flour (you can do half white and half wheat if you want or whole wheat pastry flour)
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 to 1 tsp. coarsely ground black pepper
1 tbs. olive oil
1/2 cup lukewarm water
2 tbs. lemon juice

Garlic Herb Thin Crust

1 tsp. active dry yeast
2 cups bread flour
1/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 tsp. dried basil
2 cloves minced or pressed garlic
1 tbs. olive oil
2/3 cup lukewarm water

Choose one of the recipes above or do one of each. In seperate bowls of course. And follow the directions below. Preheat the oven to 500 degrees and bake each pizza and bake 8-10 minutes. Check on it around 6 minutes so it doesn't overbake. If you're feeding more than 3 people, double the recipe. (One recipe makes two medium sized pizza's.)

Place 1/4 to 1/3 of the warm water in a large bowl. Sprinkle a pinch of sugar and the active dry yeast into water. Stir until dissolved and let sit in a warm, draft-free location for 5 minutes. Add remaining water and olive oil and stir well. Add all remaining ingredients and stir together until you can no longer work the dough with a spoon. Remove the dough onto a lightly floured counter. Pat the dough into a ball and flatten it slightly. Using the heels of your hands, push the dough away from you with a rolling motion. Rotate the dough one quarter each time you repeat this process. Copntinue kneading for 5-10 minutes. Place the dough in a large greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Place it in a warm, draft-free location (such as an oven/microwave) and let it rise for 30-40 min.

Roll dough on floured surface. Spray the pizza pan with olive oil or dusting it with cornmeal to prevent sticking.(Baking stones work phenomenol for this dough!) Transfer flattened dough to baking stone. Add sauce, cheese and any toppings. I love adding artichokes, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, cilatro, spinach, fresh chopped basil and pretty much any vegetable. And my motto of course, there's never too much cheese. I even make BBQ Chicken Pizzas! Have fun creating your own gourmet pizza!

Allow to cool 2-3 minutes before slicing.

I love making my own breads and doughs from scratch. Especially because I know what's going into it. I always love to cook healthy for my family, just like my mom did for me. I'll be posting my bread recipe soon when I a chance. By the way, making this pizza dough is really fast and easy. Just remember most of the prep time is rising the dough. And you can even make it ahead and refrigerate it up to one week wrapped loosely in a plastic bag. (Easiest to roll out when cold.)

So what are your favorite toppings for pizza? I'd love to know!

Whole Wheat Bread recipe will be posted as soon as I get a chance! :)

Rally Around the American Flag

2011-06-02T14:52:00.000-07:00

I believe this was the first time Taylor was home for Memorial Day. All weekend I made new yummy recipes. On Saturday I made this deee-licious Baked French Toast Casserole, just for the man of the house cause he deserved it! It was amazing....and of course, unhealthy. But I will definitely make it again. And want to try to make a healthier version. Taylor always tells me, you don't enjoy sweets to be healthy! Yeah, it's kinda true, but if it can be more guilt-free, it's worth a shot to me. Since now of course I'm working out like crazy to burn all dat butta off! :P hahaha!

On Sunday I made these Southwest Quesadilla's with sour cream that has cilantro and fresh lime, your taste buds will not be bored with this dish! Mm-mm! a new family favorite! I also added some chopped up seared ribeye steak seasoned with cumin, salt and pepper (since my man has to have his meat.) And on Memorial day we had ribeye steaks with hickory seasonings and red potatoes. I seared the steaks in this Green Earth frying pan I just bought. And let me tell you it cooks amazing! I wanted it because I wanted to replace my current skillet with a skillet that's 100% non-toxic, since I've been concerned about the coatings in most cookware that can leach bad toxins into your food. Read more about the dangers of non-stick cookware here. The safest cookware is ceramic and is pretty costly. So I was thrilled to find this one on Amazon for such a phenomenal price. Words cannot describe how much I love this pan!
The ceramic cooks and cleans off so well. You'll just have to cook with it yourself to believe! ;)

On Memorial Day I prayed and reflected a lot on the past and current wars. And I'm so very grateful for our military and also the border patrol agents that live to protect our lives and freedoms. I know that I can't fathom the experiences they've endured and witnessed. I've also had my thoughts and prayers constant for those affected by the tornadoes. The stories I've read are so heartbreaking. I wish so badly that I could go there to help and just give them love and comfort. But I know the Lord is there for us always and will not leave us comfortless.

"And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;
Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, either knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you."
~John 14:16-18

May those that are grieving be comforted that you will see your lost loved ones again.

I will always love my country and the great history of it. I strive to never lose hope in our country and that we will always remain free and will become stronger through all the conflicts and uncertainty that exists. I know that if we teach our children the real history of our country and the belief in divine providence we can and will have a strong empowered future generation and honorable leaders that will have faith in God and embrace integrity.

I found this awesome picture and poem below from this site (http://www.sonofthesouth.net/). Which quotes:"You are viewing a stunning illustration of Abraham Lincoln and Civil War soldiers and sailors rallying around the flag. This illustration is from the October 1, 1864 edition of Harper's Weekly. At this time, the country was growing weary after 4 long years of bloodshed, and the democratic presidential candidate, George McClellan, was running on a platform of "Compromise with the South". The democrats planned to end the Civil War by appeasing the South, and allowing slavery to continue, and once again Flourish. Lincoln held firm in his position that despite the great cost of life, so causes were worth so great a sacrifice, and the end of slavery was one such cause. This illustration helped stir the nation, and join Lincoln in "Rallying around the American Flag". The illustration was accompanied by this poem:

Rally round the Flag, Boys!
Rally one again;
There are traitors in the camp, boys,
And pirates on the Main:
There are rebels in the front, boys,
And foes across the sea,
Who hate the proud republican
And scoff at you and me.

Rally round the Flag, Boys!
Rally in your might;
Let the nations see how freemen
Can battle for the right;
Make the throbbing mountains echo
With the thunder of your tread;
With music sweet of martial feet
Salute our gallant dead.

Rally round the Flag, boys;
Rally with a cheer;
For all you love and cherish most,
For all that you hold dear,
Defend the brave old banner,
Unsullied from the earth
Within its folds enshrined it holds
All that this life is worth.

Then rally round the Flag, Boys;
Rally, rally still!
Rally from the valley,
And rally from the hill;
Rally from the ship, boys,
And rally from the plow;
Now or never is the word --
Never! failing now.

Love these moves! ;)

2011-06-02T14:49:00.000-07:00

I love constantly mixing up my workout. I really like this workout and I also added doing 25 minutes of jump rope with different feet techniques.

Happy with a dash of sad.

2011-05-23T09:58:00.000-07:00

My dad has been unemployed for two years. And meanwhile my mom has been working her bum off while trying to keep her head up high and not lose hope. I'd been praying and praying for the Lord to bless them not to lose their home. They've worked so hard all their lives to take care of us kids, and it has been hard to watch them struggle with the bad economy. My dad is a computer programmer and has actually not been in his field of work for almost 10 years, because all his type of work was sent over seas for cheaper labor. (Sooo not fair to Americans!) Anyhow, my dad had reconnected to a former co-worker he worked with in Carson City, Nevada long ago (when I was a little kiddo) and sent him his resume. The company did a phone interview with him a few months ago. But then he never heard back. And he figured it was because of his age or something. So he continued to look again for work. Then as my dad's unemployment benefits were about to end and my parents began to lose hope. The same company called him and wanted to do another phone interview with him. Miraculously my dad was able to spruce up and remember all his knowledge and skills. They must've been impressed because they offered him the job last Friday! Even though they don't even know what he looks like!

I had faith and knew the Lord would help them. I'm so grateful that He heard and answered our prayers. I'm so happy my parents won't lose their home. They plan to rent out their home, while renting a home there while he works. And my mom will be able to just work part-time. My dad also hopes to play his violin again with a symphony there that he used to be in.

I've never lived far from my parents, and we're all a little sad we won't live close anymore. But we are all just so happy for this blessing. My parents deserve it, they've given and sacrificed so much for me and my siblings. I will miss my mom terribly. We have so much fun shopping and browsing in stores together, laughing at things together, watching sappy movies together, cooking and finding fun healthy recipes and desserts to try. And occasionally abolishing our healthy eating habits for a not so healthy dreamy dessert. (carbs and sweets are the devil for women. But so much fun to enjoy with each other! haha!)

They both hoped he could've gotten a job here, so my mom could spend more time with her nine grand-kids. But this job will hopefully afford them to visit often. And we will enjoy going to visit them. Especially for holidays. Besides they'll only be a couple hours from my hometown Sacramento, and so hopefully I'll have the chance to visit there too, since I've been buggin' my husband ever since we got married to take me back there so I can show him where I lived and go to my favorite spots in Old Sac. (I hope it hasn't changed much from this bad economy :( sigh, I miss that place.)

Anyhow, my parents had their 35th Wedding Anniversary on Saturday! So getting the job offer was the greatest blessing and gift ever. They were able to be stress-free for the first time in years. They invited my girl and I to go up to Sedona with them. We had fun walking around Cottonwood and Sedona, browsed around at shops. Found a fun park for Keira to let out all her energy at. Enjoyed fufu sandwiches for lunch at Red Rooster Cafe. And dinner at Picazzo Pizza. (Quatro Formagio with anjou pear! ~droool~ you have to request it, since it's not on the menu anymore. But it's to die for! Fufu pizza's will rock your taste buds! ...except for my hubby's...haha! and he says I have a boring palette, oh well, more for me !)

Well, on a random side note, I was ever so thrilled to try my new Okabashi (USA-made) flip flops, which I had basked about in one of my posts. But to my dismay they were not that great in quality or comfort! So I returned them. I've been trying to restock and revamp my flip flop gallery, since all my pairs just had to be tossed. Because A)they were thrashed and B) they were never really that supportive. (But that doesn't mean I won't give into the cute ones still, haha! I still need to get me some fun gladiator sandals!)

Anyhow I've ALWAYS wanted to get me a pair of Fit Flops. Which are highly supportive and supposedly are like a super workout when you walk in them. But I've never gotten myself (or the hubster) to cough up the money, they're like $60 bucks. Anyhow I was giddy to try the Skechers Tone-ups instead. Similarly designed to strengthen calf, thigh and booty muscles, while also supportive. And they cost a little bit less. When I got them I did the ultimate test and walked around in them while in Sedona. And let me say, I'm quite impressed so far. They are so comfy and very supportive. These are awesome for everyday wear and while shopping. After walking all day in them I didn't have any foot or back pain. So these are definitely winners. All flip-flop lovers must have these! ;) Oh, and a nifty tip on cleaning them is to use a Scotch-Brite Easy Eraser (or Mr. Clean Eraser should work too!)

Welp, this week I'm looking forward to some quality time with my sexy beast. We're way over due for a date night. Haven't been on one since our anniversary. Lame-o!

Good N' some Bad Stuff...but mostly Good :)

2011-05-18T21:26:00.000-07:00

Let's get rid of the kinda-good and some bad stuff first.

May is just flying by isn't it? it's insane. First, of course to start the month off, our amazing SEALS raided the hideout of Usama Bin Laden and were able to kill him. My husband was watching sports and they announced it, the crowds cheered. And I looked at my husband and we both were stunned. I prayed later with gratitude for our military and for those that lost their lives in this long war in Iraq. But sadly, as we know ultimately, it is not the end to terrorism. Our country isn't secure and is growing unstable in so many areas. Actually, the entire world is. And I feel so sad for those affected by the recent tornados in the Eastern states. They've lost their homes, possessions, or loved ones. It's hard to carry on in life while others have their world upside down. There are so many things we need to pray for right now.

I admit that I have the hardest time not reading or watching news everyday. But I really try not to let it ever consume me, or distract me from what I need to be to be doing. Which is to focus on being the happy delightful mommy and wifey that I should be. I just don't like to be in la-la-land. I didn't care about politics really ever. But it's kinda hard not to care, considering the moral destruction and unsettling instability happening in our country.

Okay, now to the good stuff. For Mother's Day I took my wonderful mom and sister-in-law Kate to a play called, "The Mystery of Irma Vep" it was so much fun! It's been a long time since I've been out on the town and seen a play. It was a fun witty comedy with two actors that play eight roles and do constant costume changes throughout it. It was quite amusing! (thanks again to another snazzy Groupon deal!)

Well, I didn't get to sit in Sacrament meeting on Mother's Day. I was taking turns with Taylor chasing my crazy girl in the halls. Oh well, that's part of the joys of motherhood! hehe! Taylor gave me an MP3 player, that he knew I wanted. He's been enjoying using it too!

I am grateful for my sweet mother and all that she has taught me in life. Her amazing strength and faith, never ceases to amaze me. She will always be my hero, my best friend, and my role model. I'm grateful for my mother-in-law Janna, who has been so kind and generous in all that she's done for me and my family. I admire her amazing strength and faith as well, for all that she's done to raise such great honorable sons. I'm grateful for the women that embrace the role of motherhood with all it's various stress factors and the chaos that it brings, but yet strive to conquer it without losing yourself or your identity. And I pray for those that have had to endure the pains of losing a child or trying to have a child. May the Lord bless you always.

I'm so grateful for the things I have learned as a Mother. Everyday brings new perspective of how I want to be as a mother. At the end of the day I think about what I can do differently and what I want to do to be the best mom I can be. I honestly have never once missed working my old jobs, I know that some moms hate being home and miss the job force. But I only miss the social aspect of meeting new people constantly, but I've met and made some new great mommy friends and I've also gotten to finally get to know some great women in my church too. But I absolutely love being a stay-home-mom. Enjoying the time I have to teach and build a relationship with my child is the most important thing to me. I strive to not let any petty thing get the best of me. I think every mom's goal is to sustain patience and stay in control. Which I think I've done well. Probably because Keira hasn't tried my patience yet, she's still quite the little angel! (And I know you moms are saying, wait til' ya have more than one! yeah, I'm a teeny bit scared...haha! I've seen my sisters go mad!) Awhile ago I read the highly acclaimed Love and Logic Magic (Practical Parenting from birth to six years) book, because I really wanted to know as much as I could before Keira turned two. I want to love disciplining and guiding her in the most positive way. (Every parent should read it, it's awesome!) Now I need make my hubby read the book with me to ensure it works! (wish me luck! haha!) Okay, lastly, the really good stuff....

My brother became a father a week ago!!! Congratulations Gerrit & Shawntae on your new baby boy Brett! I can't believe you're a dad now! I'm so happy for you both!

How To Catch A Butterfly: Part II

2011-04-24T14:08:00.000-07:00

{such a happy butterfly!}

{Keira was still fluttering all over the place after her party. I love my girl.}

{I love my Sunshine ♥}

So Keira's Birthday theme was butterflies (obviously). My cake actually turned out better than I thought it would. I don't eat or make cakes often, but I just had to attempt making this for her party. I had found some cute butterfly cupcakes, but I did those for her party last year. So I decided this would be a fun challenge and good practice. I used yellow confetti cake. Then I used the Wilton Buttercream icing (the cake pan is also Wilton brand). My mom and I thought it was lame because the picture shows the frosting a lot more stiff, so the texture from the star shape tip gives a more defined look. But it didn't look the same at all, quite opposite, it was more light and airy, not like the picture at all. But the frosting was delicious, it tasted like whip cream. And it's not that nasty kind of sweet like most frosting. Anyhow, it was the first time I ever did a texture type frosting on a cake. I wish the colors were more vibrant, but I think it turned out quite well.

{These were the birthday favors. A ring pop, bubbles, party blower, a funny straw (since Keira's crazy about straws lately) and starbursts.}

I decided that a 2 year old could care less about games! she just wants to run around and explore. So that's what we did, we celebrated at a park. My family and a couple of Keira's little friends her age came, Carson and Chloe. (Ugh, I didn't have a chance to get pictures of them together, they were all over the place, haha.) Anyhow sadly, it was very, very windy. And we had to put everything away after we had the cake. But I forgot to put the balloons in the car. And the cute buttefly balloon flew off and got stuck in a tree! ~Fiddlesticks!~ at least I got a picture of it...haha! {I had wanted to get her a butterfly shaped balloon, which they were supposed to have had one ordered for me in time, but they didn't! oh well, I guess I'll just go back and get her that one sometime for fun.}

Keira had a fun filled day, she did her first Easter Egghunt in the morning and then later had her party. Unfortunately Taylor had to work, but he got an adorable pink camou outfit for her from his favorite place of course, Cabella's. I love to see what kind of stuff he picks out. She got a purse, book, a sprinkler and water shoes from Grandma Murphy and a Leap Frop alphabet learning toy from her other Grammy. A giftcard and some adorable dresses from her little friends. From her aunts/cousins she got a ball and an apron that we'll get to decorate. And I gave her some books, a Special Agent Oso toy and the cutest peek-a-boo baby doll. Even though I didn't have to entertain or do games for the party, I was so pooped at the end of the day. But it was lots of fun. I love my girl more than anything. She brings so much joy and beauty into our lives. I'm so grateful for her smiles, her giggles, her hugs and simply, for just who she is. My one and only Keira Brooklyn.

{mommy and daddy love you so much! xoxo}

How To Catch A Butterfly

2011-04-21T14:22:00.000-07:00

Two years have fluttered by since my sweet Keira emerged from her cocoon. Ever since she was a babe, I've kept begging her over and over,"Please don't grow, I want you to stay just like this!" and "Just stay little!" I think every mom dreads, yet anticipates their baby to grow. But also we can't wait to see them reach every milestone. I've wanted to write a poem about wanting her to stay little. Then I stumbled onto this children's book coincidentally that summed it up SO perfectly called, "If I Could Keep You Little," in which the perfect truth lies in this excerpt: "If I could keep you little, I'd hold you close to me. But then I'd miss you growing into who you're meant to be."It's a beautiful thing to watch her personality bloom. Her calm independent spirit, eye color, pouty big lips and tall genes are all from her daddy! (yep, I may end up being the shorty in the family, haha!) Her wavy locks, almond eyes, button nose and relentless energy are from moi! And she's indeed a social butterfly! She's always waving hi to people at the store or at the park. Currently Keira is still crazy about rocks, water, balls, and as always trying on every pair of shoes in the house (oh, I can't forget necklaces, glasses and bracelets!) She loves nursery at church and doesn't even care when I leave! Thankfully, her sleeping pattern is changing again and she's finally made it through the full 3 hour block recently! 11 o'clock church has been super tough! She doesn't sit through Sacrament meeting very long still, but we'll get there! She's a typical toddler! Keira is like a butterfly...she is hard to catch! But just like a butterfly, once you catch her or when she sits still, ya can't help but marvel at her vibrant spirit and beauty. Then smother her with kisses! (her cheeks are so fun to kiss!) Children are like butterflies, they are unique, special and beautiful in their own way. Being a mom let's me be the child at heart that I am more often and have the excuse to be the professional dork that I am! I love it. Well, a couple weeks ago, I saw some sneak peeks of what could be some 'Terrible Two' qualities. Uh-oh. When I have to take away something she can't play with or she gets frustrated, she runs away while making a funny choppy whine with each little stomp and then she plops down facing away and pouts. It's soo cute and funny, (I hope I can get it on camera!) But then she easily perks up when I distract her with something else fun or interesting. Luckily she hasn't gotten into any mischief (so far), unlike I did at her age! (It helps that I've hidden any possible trouble making items!) She still gets bored or awnry when we go shopping. But luckily she's not screaming and causing a scene!
Anyhow, even though she's not a 'baby' anymore, I can't stop calling her that, she'll always be my baby. We love our Krazy girl!
Happy 2nd Birthday Sweets!

Break your fav eyeshadow or compact?

2011-04-20T14:56:00.000-07:00

No Problemo!

I heard this nifty trick a few months ago and forgot to post this great trick! It's music to every makeup artists lil' ears!

How To: Fix a Broken Eye Shadow/ Compact

A light that is endless...

2011-04-06T12:57:00.000-07:00

Is it just me, or do you feel helpless or hopeless as the world seems to be falling apart around us? Ever since the earthquake in Haiti, New Zealand and now the earthquake tsunami in Japan, I have felt so much heartache for those that are grieving and have lost loved ones. I can't even contemplate what it would be like to suddenly have everything you call home, just gone in seconds. Your home, your possessions, your family, and perhaps your very own life.

I have been pondering many scriptures in the New Testament and the Book of Mormon. And as I studied Mosiah, when King Benjamin is preaching and counseling his people. I imagined I was sitting there with my family listening and believing every word as if I were there. His words still ring with great heed and haste to change ourselves and be born of God, to become His people. To sacrifice all the things that may keep us from staying on the right course that will lead us back to our Heavenly Father.

While I read my scriptures, many times I will pause and just stare at the thick ancient book. I caress the pages and I am always humbled, to have the blessing of holding these sacred journals in my hands and to read from those that did give heed to the Lord. They did as the Lord commanded and fervently kept the records of their people, knowing that it would stir us up always in remembrance of who we are and that we must continually prepare to meet God. I was so excited to listen to the Prophet and the Apostles speak for General Conference this past weekend. Their knowledge and great testimonies enlightened and astounded my testimony. Again reconfirming that I know without a shadow of doubt that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is the true gospel of Jesus Christ. The gospel of Jesus Christ is what saves us continually and gets us through the trials of life. It brings hope, light and perspective to everything. I think about those that have recently suffered or whose lives have been taken because of natural disasters and wars. I am grateful for the knowledge that Jesus Christ not only atoned for every sin, but that He conquered and broke the bands of death. The gift of the resurrection is given to everyone. It is hard to grasp the idea that it will happen, but it is amazing and real.

I just want to share what I last read from the scriptures, I just love it. These scriptures are a beautiful knowledge to know and have faith in. Especially for those that have suffered lately.

"And now if Christ had not come into the world, speaking of things to come as though they had already come, there could have been no redemption. And if Christ had not risen from the dead, or have broken the bands of death that the grave should have no victory, and that death should have no sting, there could have been no resurrection. But there is a resurrection, therefore the grave hath no victory, and the sting of death is swallowed up in Christ. He is the light and the life of the world; yea, a light that is endless, that can never be darkened; yea, and also a life which is endless, that there can be no more death." ~Mosiah 16:6-9 (In the Book Of Mormon)

It's hard to carry on a normal life when there are those around us and far away that are suffering. But we can pray and fast for them. We can be comforted by the light and grace of Christ and live for Him. There will always be sad things occurring in the world, but there are always beautiful things happening at the same time. And the Lord will always cast out any darkness and fear that threatens to destroy hope. Because He loves us and has experienced every type of pain we can experience in mortality. And those pains are taken away through faith in Him and obedience to Him.

Favorite Spring-a-ling Things

2011-03-16T15:29:00.001-07:00

I've had Spring Fever for awhile now, since we've had some gorgeous breezy weather this past month, and especially once I saw all the adorable spring dresses for little girls and of course...sandals & flip-flops! So as I threw my boots to the back of the closet, I observed that my once large collection of flip-flops has greatly diminished. I've worn out every pair! So I currently can't claim the title of Flip-Flop Queen anymore, haha. I had many that I didn't want to throw away, cause I loved'em so much, but alas I had to, it's better to not risk slipping and falling on my tush in public! So I'm anxious to get some pairs of Okabashi flip-flops! They're ergonomic (minimize stress on knees, hip and back), made of Microplast (durable recycled plastic), they're non-slip, non-microbial, odor-resistant and best of all they're dishwasher safe and made in the USA! (I always compulsively look at tags to see where a product is made, and I seriously want to do cartwheels when I find something American made! I'm trying to buy all American-made goods, which is really hard!) Anyhow, again, how cool is it that you can plop your dirty flip flops in the dishwasher!? I love love love it!!! I can't wait to collect all the colors of the rainbow! :)

I was blessed with my mom's awesome nail genes, which grow insanely fast. But I'll only wear clear or natural-toned polish on them. Because everytime I paint my fingernails, I go crazy once they start chipping (in less than 2 days!) and I just end up taking it all off. So I've only done fun colors on my toes. But when I discovered the new O.P.I. -Shattered nail polish, I HAD TO TRY iT! I put a matte light blue as the base color and then the Shattered on top. I adore it! It kinda looks like a wild animal print! I have it on my toes too! My mom went crazy over it too and put it on her nails too! Now I don't think I will care when it starts to chip!

I love trying and discovering hair products, especially as I search for miracle products to tame my crazy waves so I can get it super straight. This new product I got from L'ANZA works pretty well. Style-bell.com explains the product best: Lanza Strait-Line Smoother Straightening Balm is a light, greaseless styling balm that instantly alters curl memory and locks out humidity to eliminate curls and waves. Enriched with thermobotanicals to enhance moisture content, this balm increases straightening retention in hair that has been blown straight, and eliminates frizz and unwanted waves between shampoos. Key ingredients include Grapeseed Extract, a potent source of antioxidants, Vitamin B5 to add body and shine, and Evening Primrose Oil and Jojoba Seed Oil to relax, nourish and protect the hair. Add sheen and luster while adding control to curls with Lanza Strait-Line Smoother Straightening Balm, the non-chemical, temporary curl relaxer in a bottle.

Attention Swiffer Lovers! Sick of wasting money on the wet pads? Or having to use a ton just to clean one floor efficiently? I kissed my Swiffer goodbye 4 months ago once Libman came out with their awesome Freedom Spray Mop! Just pour your favorite floor cleaning solution (mine is Plege Multi-Surface floor cleaner) into the bottle and squeeze the self-powered (non-battery) trigger and it will spray the solution, allowing you to choose how much you need to clean! It cleans the floor with a non-abrasive machine washable pad! I was sick of the expensive refills for the swiffer, but I refused to give into the mop and bucket! (eww, germs!) And I can tell you I love this waaay more than the Swiffer. Plus the Pledge cleaner makes my floors far more sparkly than the Swiffer did!

Happy Spring Cleaning!!!

Get Your Group-ON!!!

2011-03-15T14:14:00.000-07:00

If you still haven't discovered the amazing and addictive deals on Groupon, you're missing out! A couple of my fav deals I've gotten were $15 for $50 worth for Mixbook photo books, $29 for $300 worth in dental, $25 for $50 worth at Nordstrom Rack!!! convinced yet? Click here and snag your own super deal! :)

My recent deal $30 bucks for a $65 deal at a salon! And $10 bucks for $20 worth at Barnes & Noble!

P90X <3

2011-02-28T10:25:00.001-08:00

These 6 strengthening moves feel so empowering, they do make me want to buy the dang whole series!

happy birthday to my wonderful crazy darling friend!

2011-02-24T09:03:00.001-08:00

I met this awesome girl, Afton, at youth conference, we somehow got carried away talking about anything and everything, excited to share our love for reading and writing poetry and Jane Austin period bliss. We then went on to have crazy fun together when she got to live with my family and I during my last year in high school. So she really became a sister to me and my mom is pretty much her second mom! haha! Then she moved to Utah soon after that, only to get hitched! I was so bummed that we wouldn't be roomies again to party and go on double dates, but of course I was very thrilled she found the love of her life! (Which indeed he's a great guy!) But... I was still bummed that she and my sister both got married around the same time and left in me in the crazy single world. And though for years while I was in a different faze in my life, and she was then in married life, she always stayed in touch with me, and everytime we talked, it felt like we just saw each other. She was always there to listen and give me hope and love when I needed it and make me laugh till my mouth hurt from smiling so long! She's hilarious. She has all the qualities of a true friend. I'm so very grateful for her true undaunting friendship to me. I have experienced being hurt by close friends, whom I thought were a true friend. I've always cherished that Afton has never hurt me and she has always cherished my friendship as much I have cherished hers.

Thank you Afton for all the dorky wonderful endearing times your friendship brings into my life!
I admire all that you've had to experience in your life, your strength and faith is AMAZZZiNG!!! your love and energy for life brings joy to everyone around you! I really can't say enough to explain how much I love you girl! Happy Birthday!!!

(my facebook post for Afton)

Happy Birthday to my beautiful true friend Afton. From our love for poetry, to shouting out various animal sounds when cars drove by to kill time in a broken down car, even when you ditched me to get hitched haha! through all these years no matter what was happening in our lives, you've been there to encourage me, comfort me, dork off with me, and simply be there for me, your genuine friendship is constant and rare. I'm so blessed to know you Afton, you're such a strong, sweet, caring, hilarious, faithful, positive and adventurous friend! I love you to pieces!!!! XOXOXO

Awesomest News Ever Today!

2011-02-19T08:31:00.000-08:00

Today the best band in the world just released a new album...

R A D I O H E A D ! ! !

I had the privelage to witness Thom doing his seizure dance live in concert & it was worth the money. Now you get to witness it for free! :O)

Also check out www.Rockitoutblog.com to hear more tracks.

I think I'm in love.....

I just love getting lost in their music. My brainwaves get so caught up in their songs, I feel like I have an outer body experience every time.

All is Full of Love

2011-02-11T09:08:00.000-08:00

"[Love is] something like the clouds that were in the sky before the sun came out. You cannot touch the clouds, you know; but you feel the rain and know how glad the flowers and the thirsty earth are to have it after a hot day. You cannot touch love either; but you feel the sweetness that it pours into everything."

~Annie Sullivan

Just as earth needing rain, We, as humans, need love. It is truly how we survive and thrive just like our need for water. We search for ways to fulfill that need or emptiness in all aspects in our lives. There are so many types of love and so many ways to feel love. Love for friendship and family, love for animals, love for nature, and if we believe we are God's children, we feel love for God and our Savior. And in the end, when we are brought before our maker, all that it comes down to is love. We will be judged by how we have loved. He will ask us how we have loved one another and shown love to His earth He created for us. Love is being able to forgive and love those who offend us or hurt us. To love everyone despite differences and love unconditionally. Our Savior still loves those that betrayed Him and crucified Him. "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." John 13:34

His love is endless for each of us and He has shown that love through His perfect example during His life, ministry and through His suffering in the Garden of Gethsemane. "Behold, he offereth himself a sacrifice for sin, to answer the ends of the law, unto all those who have a broken heart and a contrite spirit; and unto none else can the ends of the law be answered." 2 Nephi 2:7
That love He has shown through His great sacrifice allows us to make a true, yet simple sacrifice to show our great love for Him in return. All He asks us to have is a broken (meaning humble) heart and a contrite (repentant) spirit. Meaning to serve Him and follow Him by serving and loving one another. Simply to live for Him. And He will bless us. "But blessed are the poor who are pure in heart, whose hearts are broken, and whose spirits are contrite, for they shall see the kingdom of God coming in power and great glory unto their deliverance; for the fatness of the earth shall be theirs." Doctrine & Covenants 56:18

We cannot fill that void for love until we recognize God is love. And we strive to be filled with the pure love of Christ and show it in our words and deeds. For God is the author of love. He created love. And that gift of pure love is there if we seek for it. We all have the ability to feel His love individually. Nothing and no one can take that away.

Primary songs always say it simply and perfectly. The song "I'm Trying to Be Like Jesus"

"I trying to love my neighbors, I'm learning to serve my friends, I watch for the day of gladness when Jesus will come again, I try to remember the lessons he taught then the Holy Spirit enters into my thoughts saying: Love one another as Jesus loves you, try to show kindess in all that you do, be gentle and loving in deed and in thought for these are the things Jesus taught."

There has been some anguish in my life lately. I feel hurt and betrayed. And the Lord has continued to comfort me and console me to know that I have done what He would want me to do. Forgive and show love, just as the Savior would. And I must continue to have faith and patience and trust that love and peace will be restored. I'm so grateful to feel the love God has for me. He shows it to me in so many ways. The sun is symbolic of His love, it's warmth, it's light, it dispels all gloom and darkness. It shines hope in everyday He grants us live. And it always returns after a rainy day.

The Season Of You

2011-02-08T10:41:00.000-08:00

The Season Of You

I see the breeze,
It rushes past me,
Just as the seasons,
You pass by like the wind.
Just like the summer sun,
Your smile makes me happy,
Just like the moon,
Your eyes glow and used to see into me,
But not anymore,

You pass by me, like the seasons.

I see the rain,
I run into it,
I don’t care if I’m wet,
You’re embracing me,
I forget your words of pain,
Don’t forget me,

When I feel the snow land on my eyes,
It feels like the wishes we had,
Vanished with a blink,
And I cry.

The snow was no longer white,
But defiled, impure,
And you pass through me,
Ignoring every intimate touch,
Just like the seasons
You forget me.

When the leaves fall and hit the ground,
A piece of my heart I made for you will be torn,
And won’t mend till the fields are green
And the warmth replaces you,

The time I changed my vile soul,

Mended when I left you,
And the lust we had was forsaken,
And the purity restored,
Whitening the bitter snow,

The sun will always be your smile,
But the moon will be your blind eyes,
Of what you didn't sacrifice to see in me,
And I’ve already let you go,

Passing you by,
Like the seasons.

Copyright © 2011 by Sheralyn Murphy
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This poem is obviously about a foolish past love of mine when I was younger.

A Sucker For Love.

2011-02-01T08:17:00.001-08:00

". . . . love?
It's just a word.
Why does it have such power?"

~Susan Trott
American Writer

Poetry has been a part of me since I was a child. When I was 7 or 8 years old I began writing quotes. One of the ones my mom cherished was:

"Weird things are happening today and all the other days."

She folded that little piece of paper with that quote and kept it in her purse for years.
Another quote or motto I wrote is:

"Poetry are the roots of me."

Because they truly are. My love for writing and reading poetry began as a preteen. I found that writing my complex deep thoughts out on paper was my hideaway. My way to discover, to question, to figure out my surroundings and how they affected me. It was like my way to survive daily life as I experienced it. And of course, once I started to have my young naive infatuations and notions of having a "can't-live-without-you" love for someone, I poured that love out into words. It soothed my love sickness...temporarily. Words can do justice for love in a strange way. Sometimes the words are a scream of victory. Other times a scream of agony. Alas, an alternative way to ripping your heart out.

So this month I'll be posting some love poems that I've written and also other poets. I think it's funny, you either love Valentines Day or hate it. You love that day if you have someone to celebrate it with! Or you despise it if you don't! As I have confessed before, I was so beyond bitter with guys before I met Taylor, but hey! I got some dang good poetry out of it! Some of the best music lyrics and poetry are inspired by sad or depressing love experiences, proving again, love is that powerful. So I hope you enjoy the poems that are endearing to me. I'd love to hear what you think about them!

Wine comes in at the mouth
And love comes in at the eye;
That's all we shall know for truth
Before we grow old and die.
I lift the glass to my mouth,
I look at you, and I sigh.

~William Butler Yeats~

a cozy getaway with my sexy beast.

2011-01-24T08:43:00.000-08:00

Taylor and I got to celebrate our 5th anniversary and actually get away out of town! It's also the first time we've ever been away from our (21 mo. old) girl! My mother watched her for us and Keira did wonderful! I knew she would. And I did pretty well, not being a worry-wart mommy, I called a couple times to tell my mom where some things were etc. It definitely felt strange not having my Krazy Keira with me. But it's always good to get your child used to being away from parents. So anyhow, we stayed at a lovely historic lodge at Greer Lodge Resort & Cabins! We wanted to stay somewhere fun to have a cozy romantic time in the snow. We didn't really have snow gear to go skiing or snowboarding like I wished we could. But we had fun off-roading in the mud and playing in the snow. We ate at our lodges restaurant called The 373 Grill and enjoyed their (((humongous))) burger and fries. We went to Springerville (a town by Greer) where Taylor has worked to eat at his favorite place Java Blues for lunch. I loved the way it was decorated, they had neat vintage pictures, furniture and lamps, with perfect jazz music to fit the whole mood of the place (I love jazz music!). Everything was delish! From the hot sandwhiches, the Jalapeno caps, to a drink called, "Tall Dark & Handsome," I could see why this place was my husbands favorite! it definitely is mine now!
After lunch we looked around at some stores, antique shops, and then I found ReCreations Boutique!....in which I found my souvenir :) these dark denim beauties! (I've been wanting this design with the chunky cute light blue/brown thread! I'ma jean junkie, ya'know!)

The air was so refreshing! it made me forget I was in Arizona! It helped Taylor a lot with his insane allergies too! :)

My favorite pictures of Taylor are always with him nestled in between nature. Taylor + Wilderness= H-O-T! ...I just L♥VE my sexy beast.
The night before we left we ate at the Molly Butler Lodge restaurant and ate a (((humongous))) Chicken Fried Steak with "Molly Mormon" Gravy! ~hahaha! This town doesn't play around when it comes to big plates of food! I wish I could've brought home my leftovers! And we got free dessert for our anniversary! :) This lodge has a really neat history! (and yes, Molly was indeed, a Mormon! :) It was so much fun to cuddle with my man by the fire and have a fun romantic weekend just the two of us. I'm so glad we got to finally do this! :)

And he still wins my heart...

2011-01-07T18:48:00.000-08:00

Today is our

5th Wedding Anniversary!

Six years ago I had a terrible of case of what I called: U.B.A.G. -
Uncontrollably.
Bitter.
About.
Guys.

Yes, I would seriously go around telling friends and yes, even guys that I was diagnosed with it, and they'd ask what it was, I'd ask them to guess what each letter stood for. I would laugh when they'd try to guess. Then lo and behold, the phrase that I thought was hogwash, came true... "love comes when you aren't looking."

As Beatrice's words were becoming my motto,"Not till God make men of some other metal than earth"...the heavens opened and led me to my Taylor. He was the cure to my loathsome dreary state. The whole unexpected package of love. (I know that was corny, but it's true, and I'm still the same hopeless romantic.)

I still can't believe how dating and courtship are these days. Seriously! What the heck is with dating these days!?! All guys want to do is "hang" out in groups. There's no more old fashioned wooing the girl and winning her heart, or giving her a sentiment, a token of his love, like a glove or a handkerchief. Nope. I remember accommodating for some guys and meeting up somewhere, since they thought I lived too far out. Or guys that wanted to ask me out, but never had the guts. And I had to seek them out. ~Sigh~ such Lame-O's. What's a girl to do these days with so few men with the guts to seek out love? It makes me think of the lyrics from "Too Many Miracles," from my favorite artist Badly Drawn Boy, "The age of romance is dead and gone, maybe a chance I'm wrong." (Guys, it's time to revert back to the old times. Even if you don't write poetry, just do something passionate to win the girls heart for cryin' out loud. Get over your fears of commitment and just put some faith in love.)

Taylor won my heart in every way. I still laugh at the fact that I was a city girl and he was a farm boy. I was this loud, hyper, silly, social butterfly. And he was this simple, quiet, mellow, down-to-earth guy. But we just worked. Instantly. He's exactly what I needed and I was exactly what he needed. It's so funny how the Lord works, isn't it?

The first 2 1/2 years as newlyweds were very hard for me and it wasn't easy for him either. Right after we got married, he was gone working out of town/state for long periods of time. He drove a fuel truck and went wherever the helicopters went (doing control burns and other assignments to do maintenance on them). Literally the words to the song, "Far Away," by Nickleback, were seriously the story of my life (talk about perfect timing when the song came out..crazy timing!). Having a long distant marriage...sucked. I clung to the gospel of Jesus Christ to help me get through and Taylor did many sweet things to try to make up for my many thousands of bottles of tears. I had to repeat in my mind constantly, you have to tough out hard times to get to something better. And we have. Because of my husbands' diligence and relentless ability to work hard, he gave me the greatest blessing, which is to be able to stay home and raise our daughter. I'm so grateful for his insight on so many things I couldn't see. He teaches me patience and diligence everyday. I just knew he was the one, when I realized that I fell in love with his character first and then his personality. I knew when it came down to it, it didn't matter how much we had in common. But if our dreams were in common. We've gotten through so much together. And we've reached many of our dreams; Taylor has a career that he's talented at doing and enjoys, we were blessed to start a family and I've been blessed to be home raising our daughter. And I know because of my faith and because of his the Lord has blessed us to have these dreams a reality.

What I've learned so far in the 5 years of my marriage:

You can't change your husband. You can't force him to do things or be a certain way. He has his own timing. Which means what I want may or may not happen. (chuckle under breath)

He has his own way of complimenting me (other than words). I love when he spanks me when I walk past him or while I'm cooking, when he tickles me (even when I say stop), our inside jokes, and just the way he looks at me and holds me. And he always tells me he loves me! :)

We'll always be on different levels as far as spiritual and non-spiritual terms. But that's what marriage is about. Constantly learning and helping each other grow in every area.

Never talk about what's on your mind right before bed. Like most women, I wait till the end of the day, to go off about my concerns or feelings or needs... Well, as much I didn't want to accept it, their brain shuts off by that time, and then us women get all upset and emotional because we don't think they listen or seem to care. But really, it's because they're too tired to even listen or remember the conversation! (haha!)

Don't talk about more than one issue. Their brains can't handle or ponder more than one issue. When I rambled off on my numerous random topics, I would get annoyed when I would finish talking, and he'd just sit silent, and I'd ask why he isn't saying anything in response. Then get mad and sad. Then I realized it's because it's information overload for men. So I'm determined to only bring up one concern/issue. (Now I just need to figure out what time of day to do it, since guys get tired fast when they're not pre-occupied doing something! hah!)

My love for him has grown so much. I'm in love with so many more things about him. I can find a million things to fall in love with over and over again.

I always tell Taylor that everyone loves him, and he laughs and denies it. But really, once you talk to Taylor, what's not to like? (or love about him?) My family has said so many times how they love the way Taylor says things. It's so simple and funny. He just says it as it is. He doesn't go off on tangents, he just gets to the point. Whereas, I'm opposite, when I talk I expound, dig deep and go off on tangents at times! ;) hee hee! (lots of women do!). I love that his hobbies open a whole new world to me, such as hunting. Though I don't know if I'll ever have the guts to shoot an animal, it is interesting when he talks about it and he sure looks hot in that camo! His love for anything with engines and ability to fix things is just awesome. The fact that he was one of those people that ditched school, but would still pass his tests, STILL makes me sick! (I hardly missed school!) And the way he can do math so quickly in his head astounds me! (he knows he's helping the kids with math homework, that's for sure!)

There's a test I took about marriages and it was interesting since all the questions are things I've thought about as to why our marriage works. We both took it and scored high :) Here's the quiz: Sustainable Marriage Quiz (and the article.)

I love Taylor and all that he does to make me happy. I will always admire him for all that he had to overcome and for who he has become. I'm so grateful to be his wife, and know I'm sealed to him and our daughter for eternity, I thank the Lord for that. I know that as we both focus on Christ and better each other, we will sustain a peaceful and strong marriage. I love my family more than anything. And I hope that others will have faith in their love and marriage. Because marriage is important. It's not just a piece of paper. It's a promise of loyalty and trust which proves that with hard undaunting work and faith in each other...

{{love conquers all}}

Love. Peace. Joy

2010-12-30T20:05:00.000-08:00

This year was a simple year with simple but wonderful joys! Watching Keira grow and reach milestones has been so much fun! She's now an adorable curious toddler full of love and excitement. She's so much fun to play with, not to mention a great workout for me, along with my other workouts (she's a great tool for yoga/pilates!) It is the greatest feeling ever when she gives me hugs, especially big ones!!! And her smile always makes me melt, as does her daddy's! ;) Taylor and I are so blessed and grateful that the Lord has entrusted us to nurture and raise this beautiful girl. She made this year for me exciting everyday, as I anticipate what she'll learn next! The the only thing I had wanted to do this past year was go to the beach for my birthday with my family (but it didn't happen unfortunately!) But really, it doesn't matter, I have fun doing anything and being creative with where I am. I truly love just being a mom and wife. Just making dinners for them, playing with them, and simply being with them makes my life sweet. There's always going to be somewhere you hope go to or something you hope to do during the year, but just doesn't or can't happen. But really, for me, I just know that I enjoy this time I have now. I'm glad my life isn't too busy, I can focus on my roles as a mom & wife and how to keep them happy! (and hopefully prepare for when life gets busier when our family grows!). I'm grateful that I'm able to stay home and raise my daughter. The summer days are always long and gruesome. But also brings a challenge to find ways to stay active and have fun indoors and enjoy teaching my girl too. I strive to make the most of life. My life is so blessed, I'm grateful to the Lord for all he's given me in my life and to be where I am, I couldn't be happier than where I am or with what I have now. I'm so grateful to be alive!

Sweet-N-Simple Highlights for 2010

1. Keira learned to walk! (at 15 months)

2. Grandpa Murphy taught Keira how to do knuckles!

3. Taylor was home a lot during summer for the first time in 4 years!

4. Taylor still has A job. (I'm always thanking the Lord for that, as my parents are still struggling during this hard time in the economy)

5. Keira went on her first little ride in her Grandparents Rhino!

6. I conquered making cookies better! (just because I'm a mom and thought I should)

7. I lost 35 lbs!!!

I'm excited to see what 2011 brings and see what my darling Keira will do next!

Gotta love Christmas music!

2010-12-26T21:46:00.000-08:00

One of my greatest memories growing up was listening to my dad play his violin and my mom play classical guitar. They both together cherished classical music and as a hobby together have always gone to classical concerts. So I'm very grateful to have gained a deep appreciation for classical music because of them. My mom's collection of Christmas music is (((HUGE))) as well as my dad's classical music collection. My mom would even start listening to Christmas music in October sometimes because she wanted to try to listen to as many of her CD's as possible! (yes...at times I had to beg my mom to take a break so I wouldn't go bonkers and hide her music! hah!) But it truly made our family get into the Christmas spirit indeed.

For as long as I can remember, my parents have always listened to George Frideric Handel's "Messiah" throughout December. My dad often holding the thick bound music book singing along to the music. I loved going with them to see the "Messiah" performed at the Oakland Temple and have seen other religions perform it as well. It never ceases to amaze me at how strong the spirit is when it is performed. It is astounding that Handel wrote it in a mere two-three weeks! He was truly inspired! (he always donated money from his concerts to a charity and a London Hospital to the orphans and the ill.) My parents have performed with various programs of the "Messiah" and currently sing in the LDS Glendale Phoenix Stake performance every year. I have sang the "Hallelujah" chorus song in my church choir a couple years ago and enjoyed it immensely! I look forward to doing again when I have the chance. My church stake performed it this year and I went with my parents to enjoy it. I'm always humbled with each word, each scripture, it takes my soul into a different realm of thinking. It makes me reflect on the Savior and His grand atonement and perfect life. His ability to conquer death and ressurect is truly unfathomable. I am so greatful to have a knowledge and testimony of my Savior Jesus Christ, and know that He loves me and knows me. And I know that it is up to me to seek and learn of Him and daily choose to be like Him in all that I do. I am grateful to live for Him and do as He did. Which is, to do the Lords will.

These are my favorite scripture passages used in the "Messiah":

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government shall be upon His shoulder; and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

"Surely, He hath borne our griefs and carried our sorrows: He was wounded for our transgressions. He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon Him and with His stripes we are healed." Isaiah 53:6

"Hallelujah, for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth, Hallelujah! The kingdom of this world is become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever, King of Kings and Lord of Lords." Revelation 19:6, 11:15, 19:16

"I know that my Redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth, and tho' worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God. For now is Christ risen from the dead, the first fruits of them that sleep." Job 19:25-26, 1 Corinthians 15:20

"Behold I tell you a mystery; we shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed in a twinkling of a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet." 1 Corinthians 15:57

"Worthy is the Lamb that was slain, and hath redeemed us to God by His blood, to recieve power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing. Blessing and honour, glory and power be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb, forever and ever." Revelation 5:12-13

Indeed, Christmas music is part of the magic of Christmas. It's the only type of song that I can listen to in any genre of music, whether it's Celtic, Country, Hip-Hop... it's just all around fun. And my mom has a lot of really annoying ones, that our family all had fun laughing at. I played the Chimpmunks, "All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth," and Keira just looved it, so we played that all month. I have great memories of my Grandpa singing, "Yingle Bells," and boy, was he good at it. My sister and I wrote a song when we were young called, "I remember Christmas" and I still love singing it with her. Oh, how I love Christmas music! This Christmas we stayed home in Arizona. And Taylors parents came down from Utah and stayed with us. It was great to have them here and for Keira to spend time with them. They were so generous in their kind gifts to us (we are so grateful!) They gave Keira a tricycle and the adorable toy I had my eyes on, it's a little fairy boot house that has cute little lights/sounds. And I gave her a fairy toy to ride on, and lots of Megablok stuff. I think she's set with toys for the year!

We had a lovely Christmas Eve dinner at Aunt Kate & Uncle Matt's house. Grandpa taught Keira how to do knuckles and Aunt Kate taught Keira how to speak some chinese! Keira loved Aunt Kate's Keyboard/Piano, she was playing some fun circus-like music, it was so funny! We also visited my parents at their home and enjoyed some good food of course! I'm so grateful for the time we had with all of our families. We had a wonderful blessed Christmas.

Once there was a crappy cookie maker...but not anymore!

2010-12-12T19:15:00.001-08:00

Growing up I loved watching my mom cook various things like bread, casseroles and of course cookies. I remember attempting to make a long tedious bread cake from one of her recipe books with a friend when we were 10 years old. We slaved in the kitchen, asking my mom for help when we needed it. The end result wasn't as tasty as I'd hoped, so I didn't know if it was us that sucked or if the recipe sucked. But it was still a neat remarkable thing that we accomplished. And so as I've grown up I've always loved trying and making new things, but for some reason I was always annoyed with making cookies. I made them a couple times, but would get bored with the list of ingredients and hated the taste of the end result. I hated crunchy hard cookies, such as hard gingerbread or chocolate chip cookies, which were how some of my moms cookies were, I wanted them soft. And believe it or not, I'm not a huge chocoholic like most women in the world, another reason why I didn't like chocolate chip cookies very much. But hey! I'm not dissing all of my sweet mothers cookies! She made some of the most amazing Christmas cookies EVER! And since I've been married, I've mastered most of my mother's wonderful family casseroles and dinners, (I've also invented some of my own dishes and discovered our own family favorite recipes). Like I said, I love to make new recipes ALL the time! Anyhow, I haven't tried making her cookies yet, and ever since I've become a mother, I've wanted to try various cookie recipes and find ones that I will make throughout the year and make every year for Christmas. I want my children to love my cookies and love making them with me. We all know that food are tied with memories. We all have a favorite dessert or cookie that makes us flashback to great times with our families.

My husband will ask me often, "What's for dessert?" (and they say women have the bigger sweet tooth, Humph! ~rolls eyes~) He knows we can't have dessert all the time. But of course, the hard working man that he is, deserves a treat! ;) So I've made brownies for him often. And he loves cookies, so I had to get over not wanting to make them. All year I tried several chocolate chip cookie recipes, until he told me he loved them (and I had to love them too!) So I will tell you, I now can Love a chocolate chip cookie. Why? because this recipe keeps them soft, the way I like it. And I had to change something else in order for me to like them... my little secret, (which my neighbor now loves) is using milk chocolate (Belgian especially) instead of semi-sweet chocolate! (am I the only one that thinks semi-sweet chocolate gets old and nasty after one or two bites?!?) So I conquered the chocolate chip cookie search! finally!

So I knew I could embark on the tougher cookie recipes....Christmas cookies! I have a ton of recipes so I went through them. I had to find something with cranberry. To me, Cranberry anything screams Christmas! I love the smell, the taste, the look, everything about it. They are beautiful & delicious in every way. I decorate with it, so I have to cook with it! :) So, I made Betty Crocker's Cranberry Orange Pinwheels. They were excellent! My mom and friends adored them! (my mom made a similar recipe to these that I'd forgotten about.) Even Taylor liked them, and he's not fond of most cranberry foods, I was surprised he even tried it, haha! And the other cookie I made are called Walnut Balls, but I call them Walnut Snowballs. They are so yummy, they melt in your mouth. So I'm thrilled that I've gone from crappy cookie-maker to cookie crackerjack...(so far! and I'm forever grateful to my mother-in-law for giving me a Kitchen Aid mixer, it makes it more easy & fun!) Because when it comes down to it, either I just suck at making the cookie or the cookie recipe simply just sucks!

Why we fail New Years Resolutions...

2010-11-21T17:04:00.000-08:00

On Glenn Beck's recent show, he made an awesome point about Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years. He talked about Thanksgiving and how it's turned into just a day of gorging, napping and watching football. He then he asked his viewers to: "Change the tradition...to reflection, appreciation for what we have, and return back to the first Thanksgiving."

He then talked about what he calls the "Trilogy of Holidays" and made a profound conclusion: "The reason why we fail on New Years Resolutions, is because we haven't been grateful enough, and humble enough to get down on our knees and see the baby Jesus and realize, holy cow, HE is giving ME a second chance."

He then asks us to commit to praying on our knees on Thanksgiving and plan ways to give and help others. To remember the reason why it's called Thanksgiving. To give thanks and to give. And that Christmas is a symbol of redemption, a slate wiped clean, to start all over again, past is past, and to ask yourself where are you going today?

He concludes that, "New Years is what we think gives us a fresh start. The New Year is just the starting line. These two (Thanksgiving & Christmas) are the ones that give us the opportunity to start fresh."

I think he's absolutely right. Making resolutions are pretty much all about bettering ourselves. So, I feel, the ultimate way to become better, to succeed in our resolutions, is to condense them all into the one true endless life term resolution: become more like our Savior Jesus Christ. To really change, and by change, I mean have a change of heart and mind, resulting a change of action and living. Changing even in the smallest degree that we feel will bring us closer to His divinity. And promising not to ever revert back. Weakness and bad habits are rooted in pride. If pride can be un-rooted in every aspect of our way of living, we have the ability to have a deeper knowledge of who Christ is and just how vast His plan is for us. We decide how much we want to learn and know who Christ is. President Harold B. Lee said, "We learn the gospel (of Jesus Christ) by living it." Once we take out the distractions and things in our lives that keep us from truly living the gospel, we will be brought down with even more great humility of the glorious atonement of our Savior Jesus Christ. Un-rooted pride equals the pure love of Christ.

So instead of making a list of resolutions, my resolution is a question.

What can I change to be a better follower of Jesus Christ?

(Learn more about the gospel of Jesus Christ here)

a 'Blue' Christmas isn't so bad...

2010-11-16T12:36:00.000-08:00

I actually enjoyed jean shopping for the first time in awhile. And getting a distressed, ripped pair with cute embellished back pockets for a killer deal made it that much more fun. I've always adored details on the back pockets and I'm excited that more jeans have them now. I love details and interest on just about everything whether it's on jeans, shirts, shoes, bedding or furniture. And the more vintage the better. Anyway, now I'm hungry for more fun denim. So this Christmas perhaps, maybe I'll just ask for a gift card, so I can enjoy finding another fun pair. Since I don't have weather to enjoy beanie's, I might as well enjoy jean weather! haha! I don't think I'd mind having a Blue Christmas, a Blue "Denim" Christmas that is! ;) Here's some of the denim I'm dreaming of...

just a mom spilling her heart out.

2010-11-08T15:47:00.000-08:00

What is it about a letter? is it the crinkling sound it makes when unfolded, the smell of the paper? Letters are endearing, emotional, personal. I think most of all it's the writing of the words, the handwriting evokes a feeling, a mood, a personal mark from the soul, selfish ink said in it's own unique way. I have dozens of letters from old best friends, my penpal cousin, an old flame, left stagnant in a box, just remnants of little, yet important marks of their life in mine. My husband wrote me the most beautiful letter I've ever read, it's one of those letters that you read over and over, study every word, devour every word. His words are priceless and mean more than anything he could buy for me. I've also written 25 journals during my life ranging from 100-300 pages. Each of my journals look different and unique, with random thoughts, stuff from magazines cut-out and pasted to amuse unspoken thoughts. Though I'm sure some of it is boring, monotonous, and perhaps better left unrevealed. I'm grateful I can look back and read and feel what I've gone through in life and see what has led up to where I am. And it's something for my heritage to read, perhaps reflect on too. Since I've been married I write more on my blog, than my personal journal, but I strive to keep one, since there are things that I feel are best kept from the cyberworld and just belong to my little world. More than even my journals, my poetry are the roots of me. Writing from our hearts is not just good for others to read, but helps us individually sort out the ugly and beautiful insanity in our lives.

I've been keeping a simple journal for Keira about endearing moments about her and watching her grow. But I've been working a long time on this (handwritten) letter for her trying to spill my heart out in ink, which is hard at times for a first time mom to put a million feelings into words. I want her to know how much she has blessed my life. And know how I feel at this time of my life right now, because she means more than anything to me. She's my world.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dear Sweet Keira,

The joy that filled my heart when I held you for the first time was unlike any joy that I ever had or could have imagined. The empty void in heart was completely filled. I finally felt I was fulfilling my purpose in life and spiritual destiny, what I always wanted to be, a mother. I am so blessed and honored to be your mother. I have so many wishes and dreams for you. I can't wait to create sweet memories for you and be there for you in your life.

I wish you plenty of warm sunny days while running through sprinklers, riding your bike barefoot and finding little treasures from nature, just like I did. And when you lay in the grass and see animals form out of the clouds, I hope you see life is full of amazing possibilites. I wish you a childhood that leaves you bright memories to enhance and strengthen who you become. And the most important thing I want you to know is that you are a daughter of God. You are an important part of God's plan and one of His greatest creations. You are perfect the way the Lord made you, no matter how the world tells you to be. May your curiousity and interests spark your unique special talents. I can't wait to see them! Whether it's a talent made by your very hands or a song you wrote that only you can sing. I'll always be your biggest fan.

When you have bad days or disappointments, don't rely on money, possessions or people to make you happy. Remember that attitude is everything, only you can choose to be happy. And staying close to the Lord and striving to know and become like Him will bring you ultimate happiness more than anything. Remember that everyday you live and breathe is a blessing. When you feel alone, turn to the Savior, He's your brother and Eternal friend, He's always there to listen and wants to answer your prayers. I hope you also will see the good in everyone and be the one who seeks out those that are lonely and be their friend, they will be some of the greatest people you'll ever meet. Your love and friendship will make a great impact on them. And when you are placed in adversity or face peer pressure, remember your good choices will cause others to do so too. You will inspire others and be admired.

As you figure out love from having crushes, infatuations, to searching for real love. I wish you a broken heart. You will only discover genuine love through learning from a broken heart. But every broken heart will cause you to see what was missing, and in return you will find the one love that completes you and proves a love that is real. Love that makes you a better person and you make him better too. And most importantly, your fondest dreams and desires will be his too. Never settle for love. You should never have to question if his love is equal to yours. You deserve to find the other half of your heart. You deserve true love. True love is worth waiting for. Let it find you.

My greatest desire is to teach you to always have faith and trust in the Lord, relying on Lord, and also in me. I always want to be that comforting haven, that gives you instant peace and escape from your worries, a permanent place that feels like home. My mother gave that to me. She's influenced me greatly to be where I am and who I am. And I still have much more to fulfill to be like her. She has always demonstrated a true follower of Christ through her words and actions. Which is what I want to be for you.

As you make choices and may go down the wrong path. Don't ever think you can never find your way back. The Savior knows you and has suffered all that you will experience. Show your love to the Savior by using His atonement and prove your faith to Him through your works and He'll always show you the way. Study the scriptures, they will give you guidance and strength to endure all things. As you share your beliefs, you will never doubt in His great work and plan, your faith in it will grow stronger the more you share it. You will have less fear of the world, if you live for Lord. His spirit will calm your heart and fill you with His infinite love everytime you seek Him. You have a profound purpose in His plan.

Everytime I look at you, I know that nothing in this world could make me happier. I may never see London or the Eiffel Tower, it doesn't matter, because you are my greatest adventure. The things you will teach me about life could not be found even in the most foreign places I could travel. Your beautiful soul makes my life rich. Memories with you make me rich. I'm so blessed to start each day with your beautiful smile. It's such a gift to watch you change and grow. You'll always be my sweet angel. I love you Keira.

With all my heart,

your mother

Wing'in it on Elm Street

2010-10-28T20:16:00.000-07:00

For Halloween my daughter and I were wing'in it in our costumes as a ladybug and a fairy. I've had fun thinking of costumes that we can be together that relate in some sort of way. I was going to call my costume a butterfly, but once I completed it I definitely looked like a fairy, a gothic fairy really. Keira loved holding her bucket and was amused with collecting rocks, but once I let her try the lollipop, she was more interested in the candy ~hee! hee!~ She was constantly wandering around exploring. She made the cutest ladybug ever! For many of my costumes I'd wear black and just do some fun makeup and hair, it's an easy way to put a costume together. And I always wear fake eyelashes with my costumes (I actually collect them). And these little pretties took me at least like 40 minutes to put on. But what a dazzling effect they had to complete my look. The long lashes are always extra work to get on, especially with bottom lashes, but so worth it! One year I had some similar ones that were long black 'spider-looking' lashes for my Medusa costume one year, and they looked soo awesome, so I just had to have these glittery ones when I saw them. Funny enough the wig looks so similar to my hair when I had it long (yes, my hair was very long for a very long time, it was fun to have it super short too!) Except my hair color was more of a violet-red than black (my hair was even longer than this wig). So it was crazy when I put it on, I felt like I was 19 again! hee hee! Anyway, in case y'all are interested, I used Urban Decay eyeshadow colors in "kiddie pool" and "fishnet" and I used Studio Gear black cake eyeliner to draw on the swirls with a liner brush, and blue irridescent gloss for the lips, and a sweep of plum rouge.

This year I didn't decorate my house for Halloween, I ended up putting up my fall/harvest decor instead. It seemed the last couple years we had less and less trick-or-treaters, so I just didn't feel like it, which is a pity, since Halloween is so fun! But my husband nagged me to still pass out candy (I made him do most of it, neener~neener!). Anyway, my mom collects old horror flicks which is so fun! we like to find new ones to watch. My all time favorite is Abbott & Costello Meet Frankenstein, I love it, love it, love it! Anyhow thanks to Turner Classic Movies and my DVR, I got a dozen more spooktacular ones for us to watch! (even though October is over it's still just so fun!) This month Keira turned 18 months and started nursery! (I still can't believe it!). The weather is finally cooling down, the evenings are beautiful and I can wear my hats now, so life is good! Cheers! Happy Halloween!

Back from the dunes...

2010-10-07T09:42:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally got to escape the desert for awhile after a long & boring summer! Last week we went up to Utah to visit my best friend Afton and her new baby Cash (named after Johnny Cash.) I gave her a sleek JJ Cole diaper bag, it is the coolest diaper bag ever!!! with adorable zippers, pockets, mini-wallet, pad, and nifty stroller attachments (I want it myself, even though I have a beautiful one my sis-in-law gave me that I want to keep nice and love to use it for church and I have the simple one I use daily, but we all know you can never have too many bags/purses!) Anyway, I gave her some adorable clothes and I even made her a onesie that says, "I crawl the line" with a sparkly guitar, she loved it! along with the little checkered slip-on baby Keds. We hung out the whole day talking, joking and laughing. We always bring out the extreme dorkiness in each other! I'm so grateful for her genuine friendship, she's always been there for me, even though we don't live close, she's always been a true friend, I love her so much. We also went out on their boat the next day at the lake by their house in Saratoga Springs, it's gorgeous. The weather was perfect and Keira loved the boat and we even let her take a dip in the water, she screamed when we took her out, she loves being in the water! I also enjoyed watching her baby mullet blowing in the breeze! We ended the day eating at Village Pizza... Mmm, sooo goood! We also visited Taylor's best friend, Zack, and met their miracle baby twins Easton and Libberty, 5 months younger than Keira & they're so adorable! We then headed to the Coral Pink Sand Dunes to do some camping & ATV/Rhino/Razr riding with Taylor's family. I look forward to it every year. As I went to out for my first ride of the day, I was stepping out of the camping trailer holding Keira and my left foot rolled, twisting my ankle, causing me to fall, it happened so quickly and I just remember holding Keira out and turning myself so she wouldn't hit the ground. I landed on my back and tailbone pretty bad :::just peachy::: Keira was okay but she was crying and startled. I was dazed and startled and of course in pain and felt faint. I took some Ibuprofen and rested. Luckily I was still able to enjoy riding the dunes, but regardless I wasn't going to let it ruin my fun. I'm still having pain in my ankle and tailbone, but I know it'll heal okay. So there's the highlight for me on the trip, hah. Keira had her first ride on the Rhino and she seemed to like it! And I'm getting better riding the dunes on the ATV, I ride on my bro-in-laws ATV so I have to review how to ride it (it's manual) and then get the hang of it. I bug Taylor a lot for not taking me out more so I can practice and get good at it (he wishes we had time to), but hopefully I'll have my own to practice on someday, since his Predator is too crazy & suped up for me to ride. Anyhow, Keira overall was a happy camper, the food was great and the weather was lovely. So besides bruisin' my tush and the leaves not quite turning, I had a dandy ol' time.

Long Live Prince Poppycock!

2010-09-16T11:23:00.000-07:00

I'm not an avid watcher of America's Got Talent, it drags on too long, but it can have some interesting stuff to see. I must admit this crazy Prince Poppycock is brilliantly entertaining. His voice, costumes, makeup, and voice are so fantasticly fun! I would totally pay to see him. Even though he didn't win. He's gotta make it big, his creative unique act is too good to waste. I'm just so fascinated with his makeup! I love how he's created such a fun character from his imaginary world and enriched it with his talent. I think that's why I love Halloween so much, because you can dress up to be whatever crazy character you want and let your childish or silly theatrical self come out and no one cares or questions how you look or act, because it's Halloween! But this guy can use his talent as an excuse to live his dreamworld for longer than a holiday. Hats off to Prince Poppycock!

My Snack Attack Favorites

2010-09-07T09:36:00.000-07:00

What's the first thing my brother does when he comes to my house? of course, he looks in my fridge and cupboards to see what new snack or food I have. He's praised that I have a super nitch at creating & finding yummy healthy food (thanks bro! *wink*). My mom also gets hooked to my yummy discoveries. I love to try new foods, especially healthy ones. So I figured I'd share some of my favorite snacks and food I've discovered. And the best thing about them! They have no MSG, no high-fructose corn syrup, no trans-fat & no hydrogenated oils!!! Gluten/Wheat Free! Low-Calorie!

Snikiddy has the most fun variety of healthy snacks!

My favorite so far are the Pizza puffs and Cheddar or Ketchup fries! they are gluten-free and a great toddler snack! This clever company was created by a mom & her daughter! Go to the website to get a $1.oo off coupon! I found them at Sprouts Farmers Market. So check your local health food store/section!

Get your taste buds ready for a mega cheese fest with Michael Season's Baked Cheddar Cheese Puffs. If you're like me, Cheetos are a greasy, fake cheesy mess. You can practically finger paint with the neon orange residue left on your fingers. And the orange lip stain it leaves, is reason enough to pass on them. These heavenly cheese puffs are only only 130 calories for 2 cups! yes, you heard me! 2 cups!!! Made with real buttermilk, cheddar and blue cheese. These are spectacular! If you're a cheese freak like me, you've got to buy these now! These are also in the health food store/section. I also tried their potatoe chips! very good too! I can't wait to find more of their products.

I love all of the products I've tried from Annie's Homegrown natural foods. Made with organic ingredients too. My daughter loves the mac n' cheese White Cheddar & Shells and the Bunny Graham Friends cookies (chocolate, choc chip, graham flavors). The mac & cheese are a great price at Fry's Food Markets and the cookies are at Sprouts Farmers Market.
Annies products are eco-friendly and promote being green!

Besides loving only 40 calories per serving. Almond milk is packed with Vitamin E, iron, calcium, and fiber. It's great for diabetics and lowering cholesterol. I love it more than regular milk for my cereal. Great for losing and maintaining weight. I love Almond Breeze unsweetened Vanilla flavor and also Silk's New PureAlmond milk. All are lactose, dairy & gluten free. Almond milk is amazing in smoothies!!! (see recipes here!) You can even use it in pancakes!

Goodbye crazy high priced sugary cereals! Hello healthy affordable Mom's Best Naturals! They have your perfect healthy alternative of your favorites such as Raisin Bran, Frosted Shredded Wheat, Honey Nut Cheerios, Lucky Charms, Honey Grahams and more! Made with whole grain oat flour. Again, the best part is no high fructose corn syrup or hydrogenated oils! More & more stores are carrying them! Check the health food section as usual!

I love baking these Alexia sweet potato fries to add as a side to our family lunch or dinner. All natural no artifical flavors or preservatives and USDA organic. There's also artisan breads, red potatoes, mashed potatoes, and other appetizers. (Check out the variety here!) I found these at Sprouts!

{{I DARE YOU}} to try these food discoveries of mine and enjoy adding these to your healthy food pantry/freezer. I'd love to hear what you think of them and ple-e-ease tell me if you've discovered an amazing
guilt-free snack!

a loss for words

2010-08-30T14:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, a bishop in Visalia, California was tragically shot and killed. I have been praying for the poor wife and family. I hope my prayers and contributions help them. And that they will be comforted in the blessing of knowing they are sealed together for eternity and will be with him again.

May we cherish each day we have with our family and loved ones. Be the best person you can be and show your love for one another.

read the story

Choose Ye This Day

2010-08-18T09:55:00.000-07:00

Last week on Monday we had the missionaries over for dinner. Afterwards, they shared a scripture from the Book of Mormon, "Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even until death, that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life— "
(Mosiah 18:9)

He then asked me what I thought about the part, "to mourn with those that mourn...and comfort those that stand in need of comfort". I responded saying that we should think of the Savior and what he would do. To help them feel the holy spirit through prayer and giving words of hope. No matter what type of trial that person is suffering, we need to forget about ourselves and be there for that person.
"...that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God." (Mosiah 2:17.)

I believe he was prompted to read that scripture passage. Because later that week Taylor's Aunt Lorma passed away and my dear Grandpa Millet passed away. Lorma's passing was caused by a sad accident and my Grandpa suffered from Alzheimers and other health issues. I wanted so much to get to know Lorma better. She was such a lovely person. She was so kind to make me lots of blankets for my baby. Taylor told me she was like a second mother to his dad. I continue to pray for her husband Paul and the family. I could tell Lorma loved the Lord by her words and actions. I will cherish her example and services. My Grandfather Lowell Millet was amazing, I will be posting my tribute about him soon.

This week I have constantly contemplated the scripture, "Choose ye this day, whom ye will serve." (Alma 30:8)
We need to live for today. We need to decide who we live for. Is it for God or for ourselves? Do we rely on the Lord? seek the Lord? fear the Lord? The Lord knows our time on earth. We must decide if we want to live the way we want or the way God wants us to live. If we live for ourselves and put our wants and desires first before the Lords, we cannot be ultimately happy or discover our potential. But through prayer and humility the Lord will lead and guide our paith as we learn to rely on Him, we can be happy and be blessed in ways we never imagined. "In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths." (Proverbs 3:6) We need to serve and help others, instead of judging or condemning. Simply do as the Lord commands us and we will be blessed for putting others first before ourselves. "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." (John 13:34) Through living like Christ and teaching others about Christ, we show the Lord that we truly submit our will to His.

The life and death of Christ is monumental. He has shown us the way to live and has atoned for us so we can repent and become like Him. He conquered death and resurrected, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16) His gift of Eternal life is the greatest blessing we've recieved as children of God. We decide if we want to use the atonement so we may recieve Eternal life and Eternal happiness. Or let His sacrifice be in vain.

Ponder life and remember how merciful the Lord is to us daily. And truly decide to live for Him. I know that I am nothing without Him. And when I can teach others about Christ and His love for them, it brings me more joy than anything else. There is so much to live for in this life. But living for Christ will always be the most important to me. Remember that He is always there to answer your prayers and waiting for you to let Him into your life.

"Yea, come unto Christ, and be perfected in him, and deny yourselves of all ungodliness; and if ye shall deny yourselves of all ungodliness, and love God with all your might, mind and strength, then is his grace sufficient for you, that by his grace ye may be perfect in Christ; and if by the grace of God ye are perfect in Christ, ye can in nowise deny the power of God."
(Moroni 10:32)
I have turned to this favorite scripture of mine throughout my life, it has always has anchored and strengthened my faith and testimony. It reminds me why I live and what to live for. And it will always be my motto in life. I'm grateful to know that because of Jesus Christ and His gospel. I will be together with my family for eternity through the power of the sealing ordinance in Holy Temples. God loves us and wants us to turn to Him. This primary song explains His perfect love for us.

'He Sent His Son'

How could the Father tell the world of love and tenderness?
He sent his Son, a newborn babe, with peace and holiness.
How could the Father show the world the pathway we should go?
He sent his Son to walk with men on earth, that we may know.
How could the Father tell the world of sacrifice, of death?
He sent his Son to die for us and rise with living breath.
What does the Father ask of us? What do the scriptures say?
Have faith, have hope, live like his Son, help others on their way.
What does he ask? Live like his Son.

Words: Mabel Jones Gabbott, b. 1910
LDS Children's Songbook

Dream on......

2010-07-21T23:40:00.000-07:00

The other night I was sulking about my dream to be at the beach. I'm dying to escape this hot stupid desert! In the beginning of the year, my simple wish to my husband was to go to the beach for my birthday (in August) since there was a high chance of him finally being home for it. My amazing hard-working husband has never been home for my birthday all the years I've known him (almost 6 years...~sigh~). His work demands him to be out of town or out of state most of the summers. But he's always done sweet things to try to make up for it. He's given me beautiful diamonds...sapphires... and now all I really want is to see are diamonds in the mid-summer night sky and sapphires twinkling across an endless sea of blue. Alas, those dreams are now washed away in my stubborn brainwaves, while hopeful notions are still surfacing.

I've wanted so badly to duplicate a picture of my 15 month-old girl on the beach just like the one I have of myself, which I love. My husband laughs at how badly I want that picture of her on the beach and has teased me saying, "I'll take you to the wash, there's plenty of sand," since we do live in a massive sand box. Hardy-har har... my husband has such a witty raw sense of humor, but I do love that about him.

When I first asked him my birthday wish, he gave the hopeful response of making it seem like a huge possibity. (((UNTiL))) the passing of the Arizona Immigration Bill (S.B. 1070) passed and California decided to boycott Arizona, thus causing my husband to boycott California! (he was already not fond of the state, in which I grew up, for various reasons, hah!). Which means, I don't get my birthday wish. ~sniff~pout~sniff~. And I don't think we can go to a different state just to go to the beach because I don't think my little one could handle that long of a car trip. But I do understand why my husband feels that way (we both support the bill strongly and Cali should too since they need it as well). And even if he did decide to make my wish come true, we couldn't go because he's working out of town and won't be home until the day after my birthday (which is the closest yet). So yet again, he's not going to be home on my actual birthday. :::LAME:::

Meanwhile, I've been focusing on my current project, which is finally painting my room into a soothing zen-like hideaway. So once it's complete, I will just have to settle with closing my eyes and listening to a recording of waves crashing onto shore (peppy chagrin).

I found this photo of how I've imagined my night at the beach and the guy that took this picture wrote this amazing poem. I love to write and read poetry so I had to post this as well.

The Curse Did Not Come Upon Saturn

The Curse did not come upon Saturn,
Nor cover the planets and stars-
But came to the earth like the lightning
That signals the start of a storm.

It blanketed beautiful valleys
Built in creation’s fire-
Then moved ‘cross the hills
In a torrent-
Which in rapid, recession-retired.

Hating the heart of the future-
Despising all hope and desire-
Erasing eons of dreaming,
With planning and patience conspired.

To bring captivity captive-
To worship a fallen king-
To drain the last drop,
Of life and light-
To crush creativity.

Such serpentine monstrosity,
Will never be wrought again.
Plans will unfold,
But missing their mark,
Will cease to be brought
To an end.

The ignorant souls
Of the dancers-
That danced with the
Sword and the wheel-
And plowed in the fields
Of the broken-
Will never be heard from
Again.

Deceivers will flourish
And be no more.
Liars will all pass away.
Death and destruction
Will struggle and strain-
Then fail at the force
Of the flame.

The heavens are still
Rejoicing.
The stars in their glory
Still sing.
Repeating the strain,
Of original song-
Etched in aged memory.

Clothed in magnificent
Color-
Reveling in royal plans.
Revealing from the beginning-
The art of the Master’s hands.

As servants new, now recreate-
Envision inhabited lands.
By suffering tried, have spoken
The word-
And left their trail in the sand.

And passing beyond the physical door-
Now come to a heavenly land.
Where monuments new of faith reside-
And sacred spirits stand.

A city of golden glory-
Where day and night descend-
In the light of the great Creator-
Whose promise will never end.

Time itself will flicker and fade,
The fire of the universe wane-
Providence then will have
the last word.-
And truth once more
Fall like rain.

Poem & Photo By James Watkins

One Nation Under God

2010-07-10T15:04:00.000-07:00

This past fourth of July, I truly didn't care about the food, the fireworks, or even the fun... Instead I really pondered the history of America, the destiny of America, where it was back on the historical day of July 4th 1776 that the Declaration of Independence was born. America was truly born. The sacrifices made to create equality and freedom, is still hard for me to fully comprehend no matter how much I study it.

Honestly, when I was a kid, I thought the patriotic songs were sometimes annoying and some of the words puzzled me. But as I matured and of course, realized the blessing of living in this nation, not just the songs have a whole new meaning to me, but simply being an American has a whole new meaning to me. And I'm so very grateful for my Great Great Grandmother not only for coming to America, but for converting to the gospel of Jesus Christ. For if it wasn't for her my mother and I may have not had the great privilege to be born in this country and most importantly to be born into the gospel as well. Here is the amazing story written by my mother:

Danish Great Grandma, Importance of Temples

It is the year 1880 in the town of Odense, Denmark. A young mother of four is grieving the sudden death of her husband. He had been a tailor and sewed beautiful suits for rich people, but now she had to continue the business without him. Johanna Rasmina Margretha Madsen, my great Grandmother, deeply missed her dear husband.

One night, after the children were in bed, Johanna was walking in the rock garden they had made together behind their home. She was distraught and could not be consoled. Suddenly she looked up and saw her husband in a vision. He was wearing a white robe and stood 2 feet off the ground. “Johanna, do not weep for me,” he said. “I am happy and you must be happy too. You must watch and wait, and someday you will learn of a way we can be together forever, but I warn you, do not let it pass you by.” She wiped her eyes and turned to see him once more but he was gone. This helped her so much and gave her the comfort she needed.

Years later, Johanna was riding a train returning from a neighboring city. She asked the passenger next to her where he was from, since she could tell he was a foreigner. He told her he was from America and was returning to Odense to look up his relatives. She said she had a brother in America and opened a locket from around her neck and showed him a picture of herself and her brother when they were children. He recognized himself as a boy! They cried and embraced as they realized they were brother and sister and others on the train were crying too, it was so sweet.

They returned to her home and he met her four children and then retired to bed. But her brother said a special prayer before he slept. He asked God to help him know what to say to his sister, for he was now a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and he knew it would be nearly impossible to get her to leave her Lutheran Church.

In the morning, when breakfast was done and things settled down, he began to talk to Johanna. He felt inspired to talk to her about temples and how you can be sealed together with your spouse and children and be sealed as a family forever.

Johanna immediately remembered the warning from her late husband all those years before. He had told her to watch and wait, and a way would come where they could be together forever. Johanna wanted to be baptized.

When her Mother and friends heard about this they all told her not to join that “new” religion! They threatened to disown her if she did. But Johanna was determined and did join the church. She was shunned for doing so. After enough money was saved, she and three others came to the United States on a boat in 1916. She moved to Mount Pleasant, Utah. This brave woman whose fondest desire was to be with her husband and family in the eternities, is why I (my mother) stand here today, the fifth generation belonging to this church.

In conclusion, I will continue to study the true American history and teach it to my children, and never take freedom for granted. Especially the freedom of religion. I am also grateful for the bravery of Glenn Beck. I think he is an amazing person and truly an American hero. He has contributed to a large awakening of our nation to not only reveal the facts and truths of our Founding Fathers and Country, but MOST importantly he has awakened people to remember this nation was created because of the reliance and belief in God. And as we read many stories in the Bible and Book of Mormon, we see that when the people forget their God, there is no peace and no prosperity. But when we do fear God and live for God we are blessed and will have prosperity. I love the gospel of Jesus Christ, I love all of those who have sacrificed all for this sacred country. This was the first 4th of July my husband was home since we've been married and it was soo nice to be together with our daughter. I cherish every single thing in my life and living for God and my family is all that matters to me. Happy Birthday America! God bless our country and our troops!

Guess Whoo Turned 1!?

2010-04-21T16:31:00.000-07:00

Keira had her first birthday on April 19th. We celebrated it this past Saturday with family. I could not resist this owl theme, because of the clever invitations and pinata! And the cool thing about the pinata was that instead of hitting it, everyone holds a string and pulls, so even Keira got to hold one! Surprisingly, Keira was not into digging her dainty little fingers into the cake and devouring it! She acted quite uninterested, she only ate a little bit. She was far more interested in the candle! haha! She's never been a messy eater in general!

I even found an owl frame that I painted to match!

Since I have only one niece & five nephews I tried to make the activities not too girly. We did "Pin-the-bow on the Owl". I drew the owl on a big poster board and cut out pink bows for the girls to put on the head, and blue bows for the boys to put on the owl like a bow-tie. It turned out quite spiffy! They all enjoyed it! Then we made owls out of paper sacks with wiggly eyes! Meanwhile, Birthday girl was darting all over in her walker beaming!

From her Aunts she got a Webkin Poodle, MegaBlocks, and an adorable swimsuit with lil' pom pom tassels! Grandma Murphy gave her clothes, books, shoes, and a cute little doll! Grammy Millet gave her books & made her a shopping cart seat cover! (I had fun picking out the fabric!) My best friend Afton, (we call her an Aunt though!) gave her the toy I was going to give her! a cute helicopter learning toy! (since daddy works on them! (also a cute owl cookie & glass cup/basket!) Thanks for all the gifts!!! I gave her a toy camera & Mickey Mouse books!

KEIRA LOVES:

Watching Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, cheese puffs, making a funny laugh, saying "Cat" and chasing him around the house, pointing, clapping & tapping her her feet! Giving daddy a big hug when he comes home from work! Playing in the bath! she really loves the real camera, cell phones, remote controls, & pretty much anything she shouldn't play with!

I have been enjoying every second watching her change & adoring her every day. She is truly such a blessing to us. Being able to raise her is the most gratifying privilege I'll ever have. She's worth more & means more than anything in the world.

My "Somebody"

2010-03-14T08:52:00.000-07:00

As I walk into the dim lit room with the song "love shack" blaring, I see the usual clusters of naive love-starving girls dancing up a storm and then I join one of them. Of course very few guys are grooving to the tune, most of them are mysterious wallflowers scoping and waiting for a different song. As I dance, I scan around the gymnasium, squinting to see if their face looks "good" in the deceiving faint light. And if there is a possible cute one, I try to keep track of him, in hopes I can catch his eye, as I try to bust my best dance moves possible.

A couple slow songs play. One guy I ask to dance with looked alright from a distance, but as we danced and asked each other simple questions, I didn't care whether he was justifiably cute or not. Because he is reeking of nacho breath and a piece of chip is stuck in his teeth wedged within his braces...ick! gross! I try not to look obvious turning my head to gasp for fresh air and then continue to hold my breath till the song ends. Then as always, the next guy that asks me...I don't want to dance with, but don't have the heart to say no to. He's one of the few that has danced non-stop to every single song and his shirt is completely drenched with sweat. So I'm stuck not only smelling his body odor, but I keep a big distance beween us and I have the tips of my fingers resting as lightly as possible on his left shoulder and with my right hand I stiffen my fingers trying not to hold his clammy hand completely. The song drags on and seems to never end. I'm screaming inside saying,"Someone end the song! HELP ME!!!" Then afterward I find my girlfriends to warn them. That way when the next slow song comes on, if that particular guy is walking towards them wanting to dance, they can hopefully escape the same dreadful fate.

Then... "the song" comes on ...a small whistling sound, then the sound of a heart beat, "Somebody" by Depeche Mode. And for some reason, I feel like my heart is now beating faster. I look to find the right guy to dance with for this particular song. I ask him, hoping he's actually glad that I asked. I'm soaking in every word being sung as we rock in circles, wondering who is my "somebody"? is it him? Meanwhile he's just dancing, he's not pondering deeply on the desperate lyrics like me. During the song I hope he might look at me that special way, or I might feel that spark that you always dream about. Nope, just wishful thinking. After many dances to that song at many church dances, I realize it's just a song, it doesn't cast a love spell on anyone like you wish it could. From that point I never let the song taunt me like it used to. I'd dance with any guy to the song, like it was any other irrelevant song. But I was still the same young love-starved girl in high school. And I would be long after for quite awhile as I experienced love in all of it's beguiling forms.

I tricked my heart many times thinking certain ones just had to be my "somebody." Only to find after being crushed, that I was forcing them to be my "somebody" when they never should be. Thus I became more and more bitter after every dead end love and I decided to forget about my stupid "somebody". I wasted my heart on pointless prospects, knowing I would get hurt. Not knowing all the heartaches would actually help me in return to recognize my "somebody".

Funny enough, my "somebody" never went to dances. He stepped foot into one once, then never again. He detested them (still does). And that's not where I would meet him. Years later after I moved to Arizona, I had more failed quests for love. I was completely bitter with the male species when I was soon to meet my "somebody". I didn't know what my "type" was anymore or what to look for. So when I randomly fellowshipped my "somebody" at church one Sunday, I never once thought, could this be my "somebody"?

The first few dates, I wasn't sure what to think, I was simply sick of the love game. Tired of my heart getting used and stomped on. But something inside me told me I'd be a fool not to give him a chance. As we continued to see each other and I tried to break down my wall of bitterness. I saw he was different from all the guys I'd usually pursue, completely opposite. It kept me curious. Right before we met, I had decided that any guy I would possibly date, I would ask any question I wanted, and if he wouldn't answer me honestly upfront, I wouldn't gamble my heart on them. So the first date I asked him what qualities he wanted in a girl. I told him mine, along with my bitter tales of jerks. Probably not a fun thing to hear about on one of the first dates. But he still listened and continued to take me out. I never thought about how considerate he was to stick around with such a whiny man-hater!

After a few dates, still confused about how I felt for him, I decided a kiss would reveal if there was something more. My heart was so empty, I didn't know what to feel anymore. I could tell he'd been wanting to kiss me for some time, but he was probably afraid of rejection, since I scared him with my bitterness. So after we kissed, still tangled in thoughts I blurted out, "Why should I date you?!" then he astounded me more than I ever imagined. He answered immediately and said, "You won't be disappointed..." my mouth dropped in awe, was I dreaming? he then said, "I promise I will never treat you the way any of those guys did." For the first time I realized, maybe my "somebody" does exist. He later on confirmed that with the words,"I will never let you go," The exact words I had wrote in my journal that I wished someone would tell me. I was tired of guys not caring about losing me.

I thought I knew what type was my "somebody", but I was completely wrong. The surprise to discover my "somebody" was nothing I imagined, but everything I needed still amazes me now. There's no such thing as a perfect "somebody". But there is "somebody" that holds those missing elements that complement you in such a way that is rare, which undeniably makes perfect love. He helped me see love in a different light. Real love I didn't know existed. And I may have never found it, until I let it find me.

This song randomly popped in my head a few days ago and I started singing it out loud. I laughed at the memories of where I first heard it, a good ol' church dance. So I decided to write about my memory of it and how the song correlated with my life. The song can seem a tad desperate, yet it describes exactly what most of us want in love, especially when you are a hopeless romantic (that's me).

Now I just need to get him to dance with me at least once to this song. (((Haha!)))

My only thought now.

2010-03-01T08:22:00.000-08:00

Be Prepared - Mentally, Physically, Spiritually

Another earthquake this time it hits Chile. I shudder in disbelief as I'm looking at the pictures of the after affects. I remind myself everyday to be grateful. But not just grateful, the spirit reminded me, I must focus more on the other 5 "Be's", counsel given by Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley he said: Be Humble, Be Prayerful, Be Honest, Be True, Be Clean. What plain and simple concepts we can remember! We must BE PREPARED.

In a minute, my life can change or end. Like those that have suffered in Haiti and Chile. It's so hard to comprehend, but I've been trying to comprehend. In relief society the lesson was about trials and commandments, and why the Lord gives them to us. They are to help us. Commandments keep us safe from harm, Trials test us, teach us, humble us, to see if we will focus on the Savior and submit ourselves completely to his will. I commented during the lesson and said it shouldn't take a sad tragic calamity to cause us to help others. We should be helping family, friends and our neighbors everyday. Sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ most importantly. Being prepared, such as food storage.

I admit. I find myself living in my little La La Land, fantasy world, where everything is perfect, nothing bad happens. My husband reminds me quite frequently that there are always bad things happening and realize I must face the brutal truth of it. I don't want to. I have to. It doesn't mean I need to get enveloped in the sad events or "what if's". It just means I need to get out of my dream world, so to speak. I shouldn't be scared or sad 24/7, but just be aware, faithful, optimistic and...PREPARED.

It also means I focus more on what I do every day with my time. Because I want to live each day like it's my last. Strive to be the best I can be. Things that ARE already part of me daily are:

Saying I love you to my husband and daughter.
Kissing my husband when he gets home and thanking him for how hard he works to provide for our family.
Maintaining good health (eating well, exercise, etc.)
Strengthening my marriage. By listening and understanding each other.
Making dinner every night. My husband deserves it. And it makes home, smell like home. (My mom was a pro at that. I loved it.)
I sing church hymns/songs often. It helps us feel the spirit more daily. Strengthens our testimony.
Reading, playing, and just enjoying every moment with my daughter.

Things I need to MAKE a part of me are:

Find a scripture each day that I can ponder and apply to my life.
Not let little things annoy or upset me.
Focusing on the things my husband does that shows he loves me. And not be so needy (haha!)
Attending the temple once a month as a priority.
Work on my little bad habits that I forget about often.
Remember we are all God's children. Love my enemies.
Better food storage!
Finding ways to share the gospel more often (with neighbors/acquaintances).
Financially prepared and aware.

Those are just a few that I know will make me feel more prepared physically, mentally and most importantly spiritually. I pray that I will be more mindful of those around me. To find ways to serve others and serve the Lord in anyway I can. I want to be his instrument. I want to become like my Savior. I want to be remembered as someone who always put the Lord first. And for my children to learn and remember to always put the Lord first. So when and if a devastation occurs, I will be strong enough physically, mentally and spiritually to handle it. Concluding that in all things I will always put my trust in the Lord.

Heartbreaking Devastation

2010-01-14T12:52:00.000-08:00

My prayers and money contribution are not enough to help the Haiti earthquake victims. I'm so heartbroken thinking of those people. All the dear family they've lost. I wish I could more. Reading this is incomprehendable.
Bodies pile up after Haiti Quake

Define Gratitude

2009-11-24T13:22:00.000-08:00

Gratitude:

1. A feeling of thankfulness and appreciation

Ingratitude:

1. A lack of gratitude

Every time I think of the word "Gratitude" I think of "Attitude". If you live each day having a positive attitude you tend to have more gratitude for the basic things in life that influence you to learn to love life. If you have a negative attitude, it's easier to forget daily blessings & simple joys. Then fall into the sad abyss of "poor me" & "my life is miserable". And really, you're not helping yourself or others with that attitude. Like happiness, we must choose to be happy for ourselves. People, money, etc. cannot make or buy you happiness. Just like gratitude. We must exercise gratitude daily and it will make our spirits more humble. Every experience and trial in our lives can affect our attitude. And every trial can teach us there is always something to be grateful for.

I'm grateful to be married to my amazing husband Taylor, who works so hard to provide for our family & so I can stay home to raise our daughter. And I'm so grateful to him for being patient with me and teaching me patience every day.

I'm so grateful to be a mother. It is my most important role and occupation in life. I'm loving every second of it. I'm grateful to wake up to her beautiful smile every morning.

I love this retarded song/video!

Ode to the Vicious Scale

2009-11-17T09:50:00.000-08:00

.Ever since they gave me the "okay" to start working out again after my c-section, I've been working out 4-6 days a week the past 5 months. I've been eating small portions, eating lots of veggies and fruits, drinking and eating protein, high fiber foods (splurging once in a while on fat-free frozen yogurt or ice cream). I've been sooo impatient with losing weight. I'm just not going to be hard on myself anymore. The water weight from post-baby is gone. But geez does your body change post-baby! But pregnancy wasn't all to blame for all the weight! Add stress, moodswings, hormones and non-consistent excercise mixed together prior to pregnancy.

The pressure of society and media for women to constantly be skinny at all times is ridiculous. Women bear children, have to deal with periods, menopause, birth control and the list goes on. We don't need to be so hard on ourselves. God created our amazing bodies to create human beings! Women should love their body, even after all the havoc they must go through. I love working out and challenging myself. But as we know women struggle with losing the weight as fast as men do, which is frustrating. So as I stay focused and live actively, taking care of myself the best I can is all that matters. I love my body. I'm grateful for all the things I can do and I am so blessed to have given birth and survived!

Anyway, I've been bouncing back and forth from what the weight scale says or how my jeans are fitting, anxious for the results of my hard work. Months after working out I realized my weight scale has been brain-dead! It's been off all along! So much for yelling at it! But do know, I've never been the obsessive type to weigh almost every single day (until post-preggo, ugh!) and ask, "What dost thou say today, Oh Holy Scale?" And as we hear from many fitness experts, you don't need to worry as much about what the scale says, then as to what your fat measurements are.

So, My Conclusion, Dear Weight Scale:

i will not revolve my life around you
you are so
o v e r r a t e d!
i will smash you to pieces!
you suck.
to HELL with you!

Therefore embrace your own renaissance (type) beauty.

Real beauty = No Airbrushing

Curves are better than no curves.

The End.

My Brothers Wedding!

2009-11-09T10:21:00.000-08:00

Mr. and Mrs. Gerrit D. Millet

My brother Gerrit married his love Shawntae on November 7th. They are such a sweet pair. I'm so excited for them both. Shawntae is great for Gerrit and vice versa. They make each other happy and be their best self. Shawntae was so cute as she was being sealed! She was anxious, nervous and thrilled that this day has come! I'm so happy they are sealed together for time and all eternity. They have made such an important choice in life. The Lord will bless them as they have married in the Holy Temple and are making another step toward becoming like our Heavenly Father and Savior Jesus Christ.

As I listened to the lovely sealing, I reflected on my own wedding day and I will never forget the joy I had being sealed to my dear husband. We are so blessed to be sealed together. Growing up as a youth, I strived to always remember what the many Fireside speakers would emphasize: that WHO you marry and WHERE you marry will be the MOST important decision you will EVER make. And it is very true. Once you marry, every decision you make will affect yourself, spouse, family and future family. The consequences of our choices can lead to different trials, which is why it is so important to focus your life on the example of Jesus Christ. To cultivate it and mold it into your individual self. I know the Lord designed marriage so that as spouses see each others strengths, we can use them to help overcome our weaknesses. Thus by focusing on Christ-like attributes, we can see that without our spouse we wouldn't have been able to recognize some of our weaknesses. And by being good examples to each other in the areas we falter...we can conquer them. Eternal marriage is essential to God's plan of Happiness. But if we don't strive to be true to our covenants, we won't learn why it is essential.

Lovin' the shoes! white with teal polka dots! (her wedding colors were teal, black and white)

Gerrit has and always will be one of my best friends. He is the best brother. We've been there for each other a lot. And we had so much fun together when we were both single. I'm so happy for him and wish him a blissful marriage.

Me and my love

I love kissing pictures

The look of being in Love.

A custom made cake topper that looks like both of them. Gerrit really does play guitar and Shawntae loves to sing!

Keira gettin' some love~

The reception is finally over and Gerrit ends it with some good ol' Martinelli's Sparkling Cider!

They're just here for the dessert...lol!

Dancing with my darlin'

my husband in pink...

2009-10-24T21:37:00.000-07:00

just kidding.

We went to our ward Trunk-or-Treat. Even though we both still had a bit of a cold, I wanted us to dress up. Halloween has always been one my favorite holidays. How cool is it to be able to dress up as anything you want & break the ordinary daily monotony.

It was fun being pink leopards for Halloween. Too bad daddy was hunting in Utah, he really lucked out not wearing pink! ...ahem, you don't think....(gasp!) me considering my manly man to wear pink do you?!?! Of course not, plus he'd refuse. I shall never see pink adorn my handsome husband ever in my life. He would look funny in it! (He'd always laugh at guys in the single ward wearing pink ties...he'd tell me they only wear it because it can attract girls to talk to them. I won't lie, it does!!! I always noticed the guy in a pink tie! & was drawn to say, "Wow, you're wearing a pink tie..." and then I'd decide whether he could actually pull it off or not.) My husband would not look right wearing pink ANYTHING! LOL! ...but then again, that would be the greatest costume! the scariest thing ever! it would be the SCARIEST THING TO SEE HIM IN PiNK! but alas, it shall never come to pass...he'd rather die first for that to happen. straight up manliness.
love that.

i made a motto for a girl i knew that hated pink.
pink is for freaks! she loved it. lol.

I always wear fake eyelashes when I dress up, I love mostly funky ones, but this year I just wore basic ones. Since I used glitter on my eyes. Eeks, I'm making sure my makeup and glitter is hidden from Keira before she starts crawling!

Tribute To My Sweet Grandma

2009-10-22T19:33:00.000-07:00

Lillian Margaret Christensen Hatch
1920 ~ 2009

My sweet dear Grandmother passed away on Oct. 14th. The first thing I thought was how grateful I am to have the knowledge of the gospel of Jesus Christ. To know that it does not end with death. But that her spirit is in the spirit world with her beloved husband. To know that we will all be resurrected because of Jesus Christ. I'm so grateful to have known my Grandma. I will always remember how she was always cheerful, full of love, and singing delightful songs. She'd even sing "Happy Birthday," to me over the phone. And she'd always underline the words inside the Birthday cards she'd send. She truly was full of life and optimism. Her hair always well-kept, she had on her pleasant perfume and lipstick rouge always! Many elegant food buffets at her home and invite all the relatives over. She always had the BYU channel on the TV. Grandpa always ended his meal with a scoop of Vanilla ice cream, (that's always been my favorite flavor too.) I remember eating at Ponderosa with her and my family (mmm, I loved eating there.) She'd always give me a little cinnamon candy wrapped in a white and red polka dot wrapper (I sure loved those! wish I could find them!) Oh, and she's got me hooked on Danish cookies in a tin every Christmas!

Immediately as you walked up the steps to her pleasant white home in Provo, you'd feel comfortable and cozy. A bench on the porch surrounded with Pansies, Roses, and other lovely flowers in pots (and those funny little red bugs loved them too!) Her home was always clean and presentable. Filled with various books and music, floral painted China plates, vintage bells and old various things that had so much history behind them of her and Grandpa. I can still remember the melody of the wall Grandfather clock. And the train set in the basement that Grandpa loved. I miss that home.

The last time I saw her was in August of 2006. I hadn't seen her for many years, too many years. She was now in a rest home (Grandpa had passed on the year before.) I remember approaching her room and seeing a glimpse of her before I walked in. I burst into tears. It was so strange to see her without dear Grandpa. And I missed her presence so much. I hurried and composed myself, as I didn't want her to see my tears. She met my husband for the first time, it was our first year of marriage. Grandma couldn't come to the wedding of course. But sent us gift money to help pay for the wedding cake, which she'd done with the other Grandchildren. Such a sweet gift. We talked awhile and I told her how my husband was working and earning his Helicopter mechanic license. She then told him proudly, "I was a brave woman and learned how to fly!" She then read a story from a book my mother had compiled called, "Chicken Soup for the Hatch Soul," which had true stories in it from all her children. She read a particular story over and over, she loved it so much. I was so grateful to have seen her.

I attended her funeral last Saturday and it was perfect for her. My mother gave a talk, and I was doing good holding my tears in until my mom got to the end of her talk, soon my sister and I couldn't stop the tears of love we felt for her. Then a group of us Grand-Daughters sang one her favorite hymns, "How Great Thou Art." I was glad to see so many of relatives I hadn't seen in so long. I'm grateful for the gospel and to know families can be sealed together forever. And that I will see my Grandma & Grandpa again.

Because of my Grandmothers devotion to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and her shining example of kindness, she raised my mother to be an amazing mom just like her. They are both Christ-like examples that I aspire to become like.

One thing I'll always miss...is the lipstick mark left on my cheek after she'd kiss me. I love you Grandma.

This is the Obituary for her:

Our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother passed away peacefully due to causes incident to age on October 14, 2009. She was preceded in death by her husband Noal, who passed away in June, 2005.Lillian was born December 11, 1920, to Danish immigrants Marinus (Max) and Anna M. Christensen in Mt. Pleasant, Utah. She was raised in a home learning both English and Danish fluently, and always loved speaking Danish to those who could understand. She married Noal King Hatch on November 5, 1943, in the Salt Lake LDS Temple. At the time of their marriage she was taking pilot lessons and had soloed with the intent to help in the Women's Air Corp during World War II, but Noal's work in the war effort took them to San Francisco before she could receive her license.She was the first woman in Utah Valley to receive her amateur radio license, call sign W7QPF.Because of her outgoing cheerful personality, she was able to make friends wherever she was. Her Danish hospitality was always apparent, and in any visit with her and Noal she offered treats or gifts.She was always active in the LDS church and served in many callings, but her favorite was always in music. She led the Provo 3rd Ward choir for over twenty years during which time they recorded a choral album. She sang soprano in "The Accents" quartet, and performed in the Madsen Memorial Choir. She had hundreds of songs memorized, and if any topic were named, she could immediately sing a song about it.From the 1960s to the '80s she helped Noal in his work as a television news correspondent for Channel 4 news, including filming and writing many news stories. She was active in the Women's Council of Provo in which she also served as president.In retirement, she and Noal served as Temple Workers in the Provo Temple. She was steady and sure in her love of God and testimony of the Gospel. She was a great example of charitable service and love to all. She cherished friendships with many people, and her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren loved her and enjoyed visiting with her.She is survived by five children, Ron (Genie) of Orem; Roger (Sylvia) of Lehi; Rebecca Simmons (Rulon) of Rochester, New York; Robert (Janeal) of Sandy; and Rosemary Millet (DeLayne) of Goodyear, Arizona; 25 grandchildren and 41 great-grandchildren.The family expresses appreciation to the many healthcare workers who have assisted in her care. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Saturday, October 17, 2009 at the Berg Drawing Room Chapel of Provo.

Hittin' the Dunes

2009-10-03T08:53:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went on our annual trip to the Coral Pink Sand Dunes, UT. We got to rough it out on my father-in-laws new RZR, it's so fun! and then rode on the atv a bit too. There's nothin' like ridin' the dunes, smores and awesome scenery. Keira adjusted pretty well, I consider her a pretty happy camper. She had her couple fussy moments, but I think she enjoyed the nature and seeing her Grandparents. We recorded some of the trails as we rode in the RZR with our camcorder. Nature is so pleasant to lose yourself in and not care what time of day it is. The smell of a bonfire while sitting under a blanket of stars. And to end it with seeing the leaves starting to change to rich burnt orange and yellow on the drive home. I love Fall. Her cheeks are irresistable!

Keira and Daddy chillin'

Me and Taylor's bro Matt

She was fascinated with the water bottle, trying to figure out how to drink it! lol!

Wearin' daddy's work hat

Me & my lil' camper

Americans Unite On 9/12

2009-09-13T10:12:00.000-07:00

This lady made a hat with tree like plants on it and it read,
"I am NO money tree!"

Yesterday on 9/12 I attended my local AZ Tea Party gathering at the AZ State Capitol. Along with thousands of other fearful, concerned, strong-willed Americans gathered in every U.S. State for Glenn Becks' 9/12 Project mainly at the DC Capitol. People waving there signs of distress, but smiling with peace & patriotism. I made a two-sided sign, one side read, "We The People Love the Constitution," and other side, "Freedom Revolution." We had wonderful speakers speak about our great nation and our Freedom being attacked and that we will not let the corruption of our Government win and take away all that was sacrificed for this great nation. And also had some AZ Legislatives and other political types answer peoples questions of concern. My reason for going was to stand with others to represent the people who will not let our Country be overthrown by a corrupt government and that we will be heard. I want to show my children to always stand up for what's right and not be afraid or sit back and watch things happen, but MAKE things happen! This great occassion will be part American History.

What kind of President doesn't come forth with concern to see the thousands of people standing outside the White House and want to listen to the people he "represents"? Cowardly he still doesn't listen, nor will he fess up to his lying and radical agendas & affiliations. Helloooooo! Mr. Prez! you've given dozens of speeches! stop wasting time trying to sell yourself with your smooth talking & empty promises. We don't want your Obamacare! Listen to the people! Stop forcing it on us!

Here I am with my sign!

It was so neat to see the crowds of people of all parties, all here for the same purpose.

Here is a video of the AZ Tea Party on 9/12!!!!
(what's funny is I'm standing right next to the guy that recorded this! my blue sign waves over on the left!)

Read about the DC March:
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2009/09/12/tea-party-express-arrives-march-washington-protest-government-spending/

Project: Victory Hobo Bag!

2009-09-01T19:49:00.000-07:00

My soon-to-be sister-in-law Shawntae just graduated from one of the most grueling, tear-wrenching, weirdo people infested schools...Dun-dun-dunnnnnn! BEAUTY SCHOOL! I wanted to give her something to show off her great victory! Sooo, I made her this fun bag that says, "I SURVIVED BEAUTY SCHOOL", again why? because I've been through it. It was not easy. I'm telling ya, it's a big accomplishment not to become a beauty school drop-out! First of all, most of the other students are quite strange (sadly quite repelling lifestyles). The instructors have major mood swings. Most every school is very ghetto (dirty and unkept), you cry a lot...AND the hours you have to complete are sooo long & grueling! So YAY SHAWNTAE! YOU ROCK! I'm sooo thrilled with how it turned out!!!

The 9/12 Project

2009-08-29T14:22:00.000-07:00

"Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passions, they cannot alter the state of the facts and evidence."
- JOHN ADAMS

I just LOVE the bold, fearless, and witty Glen Beck. He says what he wants to say and doesn't care what others will say about him. I am so excited about his project called, "The 9/12 Project" (http://www.the912project.com/2009/03/24/mission-statement-2/)
"This is a non-political movement. The 9-12 Project is designed to bring us all back to the place we were on September 12, 2001. The day after America was attacked we were not obsessed with Red States, Blue States or political parties. We were united as Americans, standing together to protect the greatest nation ever created.
That same feeling – that commitment to country is what we are hoping to foster with this idea. We want to get everyone thinking like it is September 12th, 2001 again."

The 9 Principles (I LOVE THIS...)
http://www.the912project.com/the-912-2/

If you don't want to be part of the silent majority. Then let's take action! 9AM-12PM meet at the state capital lawn!

http://arizonateaparty.ning.com/events/912-tea-party-in-phoenix

My Summer Escape

2009-08-21T16:27:00.000-07:00

I spent a week in Lewistown, Montana to visit my husband while he's working. (He's a helicopter mechanic working with the BLM for control burns) . It was a cooler summer than usual, but I loved it! the breeze outside was perfect and the air was so refreshing after it rained. The town has a small population. One grocery store, lol! and just small businesses. He took me to his favorite eating joints. The Bon Ton had awesome hamburgers, Lola's had yummy panini's & gelato, and The Mint was fine dining indeed, great meat!

The scenery was gorgeous of course. In front of one house we drove by there were tons of elk and deer everywhere eating the grass, can you imagine seeing those outside your front door!? of course only in places like this! lol! (My husband yearns to live in a place like this, and plans to live somewhere like this someday. I can't lie, my husband belongs in a place like this, he grew up with it, it's his true habitat! I won't mind it as long as I'm not too far from a Target, lol!) Another friend of mine was visiting her hubby too. And we did some fun shopping and went to a museum, it had the history of the town and people, and really neat old things like an old stove, pianos, organ, typewriters, phones, you name it! I love looking at old things, it's astonishing to see how much has changed, and definitely how easy things are compared to early 1900's. I'm so glad I live in these days, there was much more work that women had to do, ~whew!~ lol! Another Montana thing is Huckleberry (I got taffy flavored..mmm!) and ChokeCherries (I tried the yummy jelly.) They even have a ChokeCherry Festival in September!
We went to the Big Spring Fish Hatchery where the creeks supply the towns water, and let me tell you the water is sooo clean and delicious! We looked at a neat pond of trout that you can feed. And there were neat bridges, it was lovely. We even got a quick picture of Keira sitting on the bench, before she tipped over, and got a lucky smile! Yay! Keira is 4 months now! isn't she adorable!

We went bowling and my hubby got five strikes and I got four! that's rare for me! We had fun. Keira did so good on the airplane! she slept most of the time. She's such an angel! Lucky me. We had so much fun, it was nice to escape the heat and to see a state I've never seen. We didn't have enough time to visit other cities, but perhaps next time. It's the end of their company contract, so he won't be there next summer. He won't be doing as much traveling for work in summer, now that he's gotten his aviation mechanics license, he'll be home working more (I'm so proud of him!) My husband is so wonderful. I love him.

My Summer Beauty Picks: The Bronze Goddess

2009-07-09T22:51:00.000-07:00

Being the makeup guru that I am, I love to find new products and makeup that work awesome & look great. Here are my favorite summer beauty picks this year:

Bath & Body Works: True Blue Spa - Strike Gold
Instant self-tanning lotion sheer color that lets you see where you've applied it. Doesn't streak and it is seriously instant! the more you apply the darker it gets! When in the sun you can see a subtle sparkle! And smells great! (Exfoliate before you apply for best results!) It is the best self-tan product I've ever used! I'm hooked for life! Who wants unhealthy leathery skin and get skin cancer?! NOT me! Quick & Easy!

Urban Decay: Primer Potion

I've used this product for years! it is the best eyeshadow primer ever! crease-proof, smudge-proof and it even makes the color you apply look more intense! This is one product worth splurging for. Once you use it, you can't live without it! There is the invisible primer, I've used forever (in the purple) and the new one called,"Sin" (in the bronze) I loooove the new one. It has a soft shiny metallic sandy tone. Beautiful even if you wear it alone with mascara, for a beach girl look! And it's great as a base color and then use a shadow in the crease! Quick & Easy!

Too Faced: Snow Bunny

This multi-bronzer blends fawn/pink/white/beige to give a nice glow anywhere you want! (I've uesed this product for awhile, I might as well tell ya about it!) Quick & Easy!

As for lips, I suggest glosses! mainly light colors for summer. I even like to put a lip stain on first & then gloss on top for color endurance! Bronze cheeks & glossy lips look great on anyone! I hope you can try these awesome treasures I've found! I adore them! C'mon Rock the Bronze! It's fun!

Born In The USA Baby!

2009-07-05T11:27:00.000-07:00

Keira and I spent 4th of July at my parents house with my sister's family. We stayed indoors all day (except for pics), but still had burgers and yummy food of course. Then watched fireworks from Goodyear Baseball Stadium. Taylor had to work the whole day, but still had a BBQ with his work crew. Keira looked so cute in her patriotic dress and diva sunglasses! (She's so fun to dress up! it's like playing with a doll, except she's real! lol!) How blessed we are for the sacrifices made to give us the freedom we have. And God bless those who have fought in the current war. I'm glad to be an American!

Here's the recipe for the pasta salad I made!
Cook 1/2 of a 16oz bag of any pasta shape ~I used Celentani
Let it cool off
Add 13.75oz can of Artichoke Hearts in Brine cut into quarters (less fat than the marinated)
Add a can of sliced olives
1 pint of grape tomatoes
Make Italian dressing (following directions on the packet. I used Simply Organic brand from Sprouts, it's healthier)
Pour dressing all over and mix well (add small amounts at a time and taste it. Add however much you prefer for flavor)
Then add grated parmesan cheese and toss it all togeher ~add as much as you like~ :)
Add salt & pepper
Put it the fridge for a couple hours so it's cold.
Enjoy!
Yum Yum!

(With my nephews Dayton & Josiah)

~ GrOoVy Baby ~

2009-06-17T17:20:00.000-07:00

Future Wild Child...{ ? }
I went to my friend Teri's house and tie dyed these onesies for Keira. I've always wanted to learn to tie dye. It's so easy & fun. I can't wait to do more. I'm settin' her up to be a wild child...

{oh deary!} Eh, We all were at some point. lol.

(i admit that i love some hippy clothes & 70's too. I have some real authentic 70's clothes that i think are way cool! and i used to burn incense in my room when i was a teen, heehee.)

Your jaw will drop

2009-06-13T17:00:00.000-07:00

My Father-in-law showed me this. Please watch:

My thoughts on this are indescribable.

The Beginning of Keira's Fairytale: Baby Blessing & Nursery

2009-06-08T22:36:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Keira's baby blessing. My mother made her beautiful dress! (I picked out the fabric and purple ribbon!) Taylor gave her a beautiful blessing. I bore my testimony about when I first brought her home, I couldn't believe she was my daughter and the Lord is entrusting me to teach her all about the the gospel of Jesus Christ. And how the joy of becoming a mother overwhelmed me. The joy was unlike any I've ever experienced in my entire life. I felt that I was finally completing my destiny and purpose that God designed for me. There truly is no greater calling than to be a mother. I've also finally posted pictures of Keira's bedroom, I didn't post them sooner because I'm still getting curtains and finishing a shelf to hang. But what the heck, ya'll can see it :) LOL! (Vintage stencils & butterflies)

(my favorite feature is the chandelier! perfect for night feedings & gives a nice soft glow ~so relaxing~)

(the sign says,"Fairytales do come true")

(I painted and decoupaged the letters with scrapbook paper.)

(I bought these and customized them to match the bedding! I hand cut the flower & butterfly)

Taylor's parents FIRST GRAND-CHILD!

~Sweeeeet Stuff~

2009-06-02T16:35:00.000-07:00

Well my best friend Afton was in AZ for a family reunion and was able to stop by and see where I lived for the first time. We've known each other since High School. And she lived with my family in H.S. too for almost a year, so she's practically a sister to me. Even though we don't live close by each other our friendship has remained the same: Silly-Giddy-Girls that may possibly say or do something crazy at any given moment! lol!
It was fun to see her and her little girls. I made them little jewelry boxes!
MY BROTHER IS GETTING MARRIED!!!!!!!!
I've been meaning to get on here and post the big announcement that my awesome studly brother Gerrit is officially engaged. He took her to Sedona, AZ on a hummer ride tour and proposed at a lovely scenic view. I'm soooo excited for them both. His Fiancee, Shawntae is sooo freakin' fun! I can't wait to have her as my sis-in-law! I love you guys!

On Memorial Day my parents and I went to Sedona and ate a yummy BBQ Chicken Pizza (my fav) at Oak Creek Brewery and then had fun walking around Telakipaki (scenic fountains/landscape/boutiques). It was Keira's first day trip & she did awesome! she rocks! (my hubby had to work but I made him dinner & watched a movie.)

B A B Y L i C i O U S

2009-05-21T11:35:00.000-07:00

FEED ME!

{....Zzzzzzzz}

CHANGE MY DIAPER!

{....Wide-Eyed}

Cuddle Me!

{....Zzzzzzzz}

My Tummy's Upset! Waaaah! Waaaah!

I've adapted to motherhood and the daily baby grind really well. Keira is a very calm & mellow baby. And she sleeps the whole time when I do errands. Keira snorts whenever she's upset or hungry it is so hilarious! She also makes the cutest face after she eats, I call it her "cloud-nine" face, ha ha ha! Keira does not like baths yet. Taylor & I love to snuggle with her. We love her so much. She's almost 5 weeks! Yikes!

A Mother Is Divine

2009-05-11T14:37:00.000-07:00

A Mother is Divine

Teaching me the ways of Christ,
By her shining example, a perfect light,
Praying to the Lord to guide and direct me,
And making home a refuge from the world,
Reminding me to see the beauty in all things,
Her radiant smile calms any burden,
Her warm embrace instantly healing,
Her lips speak words of love and kindess,

Humming while she cooks a family meal,
The comforting aroma of her fresh baked bread,
There's nothing like a mother's touch,
And once we've left mother's nest,
There she always awaits,
And we all finally admit,
Truly a mother does know best,

What wondrous work a mother inspires,
She makes us all want to stand a little taller,
And as we get older we then realize,
the sacrifices she made for our happiness.
How I thank my Heavenly Father,
For my sweet mother.

Love,
Sheralyn
(copyright©2009)

On my first Mother's Day I went to my parents ward for church and my father gave a beautiful talk about the role of mothers. He used this poem I wrote in his talk. I could talk about my mom & her wonderful example and role model forever. I aspire to be like her in every way. She is so amazing and has always demonstrated a true follower of Christ throughout my life.

Now that I am taking on the greatest role in my life as a mother, I reflect often on events in my life and how my mother helped me and was there for me. I know I wouldn't be where or who I am today without her positive great role in my life. I remember hearing often people say, "Take your time and wait to have kids, travel all over, live it up, because once you have children your life is not the same." Now it is true your life is not the same, but...
#1 Why spend all that money on traveling when it can be used toward your home or savings for your children or future missions!
#2 Risking years and years to have children and then possibly find out you can't have children or is now harder to concieve. Which is every woman's fear who desires a family.
#3 Most IMPORTANTLY: It is a commandment from Heavenly Father. It is the most important part of the plan of salvation.

How blessed and privileged I am to care and teach one of God's children. I admire all mother's that make sacrifices and truly embrace the greatest role they have taken on. A great quote I love says, "While we try to teach our children about life, Our Children teach us what life is all about."
The wonder and adventure a child finds in everything turns the dirty corrupt world we tend to always see into the beautiful exciting world God created for us to enjoy while we experience mortality.

The last two weeks my sweet mother-in-law helped me with the baby, cooking, cleaning, etc. while I've been healing. And when my father-in-law came down to drive her back home he sent me beautiful flowers for my first Mother's day and made his wife and I breakfast. She gave me Sheri Dew's new book, "Saying It Like It Is." My husband gave me a new digital camera I can't wait to use! I had a fabulous first Mother's Day! I'm so blessed to have my mother and mother-in-law! I love them so much!

Our Angel has Arrived!

2009-04-23T16:35:00.000-07:00

Keira Brooklyn Murphy

Born: April 19th, 2009
Time: 5:16 PM
Weight: 10 lbs. 1 oz.
Inches: 20 1/4

So there I sat with swollen huge feet & ankles on Saturday night and of course there was no darn way to get comfortable period! I had a couple contractions, but not close enough to labor. My OB had us scheduled to be induced on my actual due date Monday night April 20th ~unless~ I went into labor before hand. My hospital bag was pretty much set. And I was definitely ready to see my sweet lil' girl. So I went to sleep and around 12:15 AM Sunday mornin', I awoke to feeling a gush of water... I was so confused... bladder issues? or uh... did my water just break?! I yelled for my husband who was still awake studying and he wasn't sure either, of course! lol! Well, we knew it was pretty obvious my water did break! I had to sit on a stack of towels on the way to the hospital ~how fun!~ lol! and lo and behold here is our angel! And yes, I am still in shock how big she weighed! it took me forever to even look pregnant and I thought I was safe having a girl, thinking she'd be born small like I was. But nope, the Murphy genes are all her, Taylor was a 9 pound baby, his brother was a 10 pounder, AND his dad was whoppin' 12 pound baby! But she is so well proportioned and doesn't even have really any "baby fat" & she still looks small to me, especially in her daddy's arms! ~lol~ Keira is the most precious mellow baby ever! She has her dad's big luscious pouty lips (eat your heart out botox-ers!) and her eyes look like a deep blue, but still unsure. But her head shape and cheeks look just like mine did as a baby. Her nose is a Sher-Taylor combo, sooo cute! Anyhow, we are both doing great. I'm so very grateful to the Lord that she was born very healthy & to have her part of our family. I've looked forward to motherhood so much. Everything I went through during & after was worth it. We are so in love with her!

Baby Shower Recap

2009-04-15T14:19:00.001-07:00

My sister Rochelle took this picture of me & designed the adorable invitations (and we made up the cute quote!) And she made the cakes & cake tier! she's amazing!

Well, I finally got the pictures from the baby shower in March. It was so much fun! we had a great turn out even though it was on spring break weekend. Both of my sisters Rochelle & Shantil hosted it and did awesome! they did a girly glam theme, for the guests to wear we had girly metallic pearl necklaces and little diamond rings (you ctake from people if they said the word, "cute") Shantil did the games, one where everyone drew cute dress designs and I had to "go shopping" and choose my favorite for the prize (that was tough!) and we played a great ice breaker game, so everyone learned something unique about each other! It was soo much fun! I was so happy my mother-in-law Janna could come down from Utah! She helped me out a ton! Thanks to everyone for the gifts & made this a great turn out! *muah* (and thanks for the sweet gifts from those who couldn't make it!) My mom made this cute afghan and gave me a stuffed animal similar to one I loved when I was little :)

My friend Lisa made these little knitted booties & a matching beenie! soo cute!

My tiara says "Mother to Be" :)

My friend Teri is a Quilting Diva ~she rocks!~

My sister-in-law Kate gave me this awesome bag that can be used for everything,

including a diaper bag!

it is sooo Meee, good job!!!

I can't wait to use everything! ;)

Getting closer to the End...

2009-04-12T16:30:00.000-07:00

Well, I have 8 days until she comes, but of course I may go past my due date! Well, I had my last day of work on April 3rd and believe me it's been strange to not be working, but it's also been so nice to finish up the last minute things I need to get done before the baby arrives, not to mention it's so hard to get around and it's nice to rest. I was so blessed to work for a great doctor and office staff that I will miss working with...But I'm onto a new faze in life that I've been looking forward to so much. I also had fun finally seeing one of the very first people I met when I first moved to AZ, my friend Lisa, we are both expecting our first baby, so we've had fun talking online throughout our pregnancies, comparing the similar and different things through each trimester. She's due a couple weeks after me with a boy. Well, I'm finally finishing up the nursery, (yes, I will post pics as soon as it is done!), and a BiG thanks to my dear mother for helping me accomplish that! (hugs~n~kisses to you!). I also got the car seat inspected/installed, my hubby and I got CPR certified (which I've always wanted to do), took the labor/birth class, all the baby clothes/blankets pre-washed (in hypo-allergenic detergent of course!), a pretty good stock on diapers/baby wipes, and my-oh-my an endless supply of baby wash/shampoo and lotion that I got from my shower (thanks!), and I've almost got my hospital bag complete! (but still need my hubby's done). Oh and yes, finally got pampered with my sister and got pedicures, not as fun with swollen ankles and feet, but still relaxing. I'm now just cleaning as usual, enjoying the baby moving, cherish the last moments of just me & my husband before parenthood, Oh, and of course having him pamper me, or maybe let's say...slave for me...lol!

Chronicles of the Baby Buddha Belly & Moi

2009-03-19T08:46:00.000-07:00

So far being pregnant has been such an amazing experience. I'm in week 34 and I've been nesting my home since the beginning of the year, still working on the nursery, and well...the list goes on. The journey of my blessed pregnancy follows:
1st Trimester:
Beef- The smell/look/taste has disgusted me since two days before I found out I was expecting! I told my hubby to change the channel anytime there was a food commercial! lol! Not to mention I did not want to cook for myself or my man.

Food- I had to figure out what wasn't disgusting that day!

Fruit- That is simply all I craved fruit FRUIT & more fruit! (dozens of strawberries, nectarines, grapes, and clementines

Buffalo Wings!- Suddenly all I wanted was the buffalo wing sauce, not the chicken, just the sauce...mmm. Probably because of the vinegar in it, which is salty, you crave salt a lot during this trimester. My husband even once dared me to drink it straight when we were at Chili's since I had asked for an extra side bowl of wing sauce, and yes, I drank it straight! LOL!

Bagels & Cream cheese- for two weeks straight, this was the only thing I ate for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Mmmmmm.
Pickles & Ice Cream- Of course...I love both even not preggo. I could eat a whole jar of pickles in 3 days or less! LoL! And I still love & crave all dairy such as ice cream & yogurt.
Stomach aches- I had little stomach aches and small spell of nausea from smells & lack of wanting food.
{Zzzzzzz}- I was so tired by 6PM...forget housework!

2nd Trimester-
Food- Didn't seem so disgusting & my taste buds came back! Energy was zapped back into me! And I was finally not so tired as early. But I tried to see if I could enjoy beef again ~Urks~ no sireee! yuck! i've just stuck with chicken/turkey.
Questions- Random thoughts & questions, "Am I where I should be?" etc~etc.
The BiG Ultrasound- After numerous detailed vivid dreams before we even started trying for a baby, I dreamed of having a boy over & over and even 2 nights before the ultrasound, I dreamed the ultrasound showed it was a boy. But on the big day, our tech saw very clearly, it was a GiRL! She saw that I was surprised and I told her about my dreams and she said, "Well don't always go by dreams, cuz I dreamed I was gonna have triplets & luckily that didn't happen," I looked at my husband to see what his reaction was, he smiled & was of course surprised & excited. Especially to tell his mom, who always wanted a daughter, and this is her first grand-child!!! So this lil' angel is gonna get ~SpOiLeD~!
3rd Trimester((so far))-
Charley Horses- in my leg & foot occuring while I'm sleeping! Owe! such an annoying pain! (yes, i'm staying hydrated & eating potassium, but they still happen!)
Back Pain- I already have back pain as it is, sooo, I knew when I was preggo it would be a big pain. Standing or walking for just a little bit brings on extreme lower back pain, I'm so blessed to have a sit-down job. I thank the Lord daily.
Tight Swollen Fingers- My sweet wedding diamond is worn as a necklace instead of a ring. I type a lot daily at work and thought I had arthritis or something, cuz my fingers were so tight and achy! Then I realized, OH, yes, that's part of pregnancy! Oh joy!

Can't - get - my - darn - pants & shoes on!!!- Sheesh! what a task it is to do this daily. I'm now wearing shoes that you don't have to tie! And well, pants still plain suck.
Braxton Hicks- Occur often all day, everyday! Tight & Painful, especially when I get a swift kick in the rib at the same time! thanx darlin'! ;)
Movement- I enjoy every movement she makes, even when I'm trying to fall asleep. It's such a neat feeling & too hard to explain what if feels like to someone. It's fun to stare at my belly moving & wonder was that an arm, an elbow, fist, or a foot? I was hoping she'd kick my hubby while he was sleeping! and she did! my belly was against his back and he felt her kick & he said it woke him up, he said, "She's not even born yet & she's already waking me up, haha!"
Hard nights rest- Between trying to get comfortable, baby moving, changing sleeping positions, (I'm so sick of sleeping on my side!) and bathroom routines ~ I know the Lord is getting me ready for when the baby keeps me up at night for sure! ~sigh~
Belly Size- Everyone says I'm small for being 6 weeks away, but my OB says I'm where I should be and I'm fine with my size, especially cause of back pain, plus hopefully it will increase my odds of regular & easy delivery!

Labor & Birth Class- After scheduling the class weeks ahead, my husband got stuck working out of town days before & knew he wasn't going to be able to come to the class with me. I cried & cried days before the class, he felt so bad he couldn't be there, so he surprised me with a huge spring bouquet of flowers delivered to me at work the day before the class with a sweet note, and promised we would re-enact the everything he missed. Everyone remarked what a great husband I have. I agreed ~still pouting~... I love my Taylor, he's the best husband ever!

Anticipation: I can't wait to meet her! ! !

---------------------

Think Pink

2009-01-31T16:01:00.000-08:00

I went to my friend Robyn's baby shower. She's expecting a girl and naming her Chloe. So I decided to have fun, get my creative juices flowing and I made her, I like to call it, a memory jewelry box. Inside I put a couple memory journal cards in which she can write down special memories of her little girl and then her baby girl can use it as she gets older as a jewelry box. I worked hard on it and I'm so delighted with how it turned out! i LoVe it so much I'm making one for my baby girl too! (with my theme colors) Robyn is due Feb. 16th! and I'm now 28 weeks! (I know I'm small, but hopefully that will make it an easier delivery! lol!) I have 3 months to get my house in top shape and get the nursery done. I'll be posting the finished results of the nursery when it's done, so keep peeking in my blog here & there! Props to you Robyn for toughing out your hard pregancy! You go GiRL!

(Inside the lid the engraved charm says,"dream a little dream" ♥)

Sher's Sweet Somethings

Keira wants to share her BiG secret!

My lil' Chef

Toddler Tales

Tube-ular ;)

Forget the turkey mom, I want pumpkin pie!

Keira & The Sugar Lollies!

There's no such thing as fall in Arizona, in case ya didn't know.

She Totally Rocks...

WARNING!

Profound Reflections On Our Divine Creator

Nothing To Fear! Mommy Is HERE!

More than a Cyber Summer Fling...

Keeping up with Miss Busy Bee

The Best Pizza is Made At Home

Rally Around the American Flag

Love these moves! ;)

Happy with a dash of sad.

Good N' some Bad Stuff...but mostly Good :)

How To Catch A Butterfly: Part II

How To Catch A Butterfly

Break your fav eyeshadow or compact?

A light that is endless...

Favorite Spring-a-ling Things

Get Your Group-ON!!!

P90X <3

happy birthday to my wonderful crazy darling friend!

Awesomest News Ever Today!

All is Full of Love

The Season Of You

A Sucker For Love.

a cozy getaway with my sexy beast.

And he still wins my heart...

Love. Peace. Joy

Gotta love Christmas music!

Once there was a crappy cookie maker...but not anymore!

Why we fail New Years Resolutions...

a 'Blue' Christmas isn't so bad...

just a mom spilling her heart out.

Wing'in it on Elm Street

Back from the dunes...

Long Live Prince Poppycock!

My Snack Attack Favorites

a loss for words

Choose Ye This Day

Dream on......

One Nation Under God

Guess Whoo Turned 1!?

My "Somebody"

My only thought now.

Heartbreaking Devastation

Define Gratitude

Ode to the Vicious Scale

My Brothers Wedding!

my husband in pink...

Tribute To My Sweet Grandma

Hittin' the Dunes

Americans Unite On 9/12

Project: Victory Hobo Bag!

The 9/12 Project

My Summer Escape

My Summer Beauty Picks: The Bronze Goddess

Born In The USA Baby!

~ GrOoVy Baby ~

Your jaw will drop

The Beginning of Keira's Fairytale: Baby Blessing & Nursery

~Sweeeeet Stuff~

*B A B Y L i C i O U S*

A Mother Is Divine

Our Angel has Arrived!

Baby Shower Recap

Getting closer to the End...

Chronicles of the Baby Buddha Belly & Moi

Think Pink

B A B Y L i C i O U S