I don't find myself very quick witted, or fast on my feet. Good comebacks and remark don't come until long after they are needed. Rarely do I find that I have a really good come back, and I think, " Man, that was really good, and funny too." Maybe I am just too nice to people!
I found this fantastic article called, " The bitter homeschooler's wish". This is for all the things that I thought, long after conversations were over, and wished I could have said them! Hope you enjoy it! I thought it was hilarious!
The Bitter Homeschooler's Wish List By Deborah Markus, from Secular Homeschooling Magazine, Issue #1, Fall 2007
1 Please stop asking us if it's legal. If it is — and it is — it's insulting to imply that we're criminals. And if we were criminals, would we admit it?
2 Learn what the words "socialize" and "socialization" mean, and use the one you really mean instead of mixing them up the way you do now. Socializing means hanging out with other people for fun. Socialization means having acquired the skills necessary to do so successfully and pleasantly. If you're talking to me and my kids, that means that we do in fact go outside now and then to visit the other human beings on the planet, and you can safely assume that we've got a decent grasp of both concepts.
3 Quit interrupting my kid at her dance lesson, scout meeting, choir practice, baseball game, art class, field trip, park day, music class, 4H club, or soccer lesson to ask her if as a homeschooler she ever gets to socialize.
4 Don't assume that every homeschooler you meet is homeschooling for the same reasons and in the same way as that one homeschooler you know.
5 If that homeschooler you know is actually someone you saw on TV, either on the news or on a "reality" show, the above goes double.
6 Please stop telling us horror stories about the homeschoolers you know, know of, or think you might know who ruined their lives by homeschooling. You're probably the same little bluebird of happiness whose hobby is running up to pregnant women and inducing premature labor by telling them every ghastly birth story you've ever heard. We all hate you, so please go away.
7 We don't look horrified and start quizzing your kids when we hear they're in public school. Please stop drilling our children like potential oil fields to see if we're doing what you consider an adequate job of homeschooling.
8 Stop assuming all homeschoolers are religious.
9 Stop assuming that if we're religious, we must be homeschooling for religious reasons.
10 We didn't go through all the reading, learning, thinking, weighing of options, experimenting, and worrying that goes into homeschooling just to annoy you. Really. This was a deeply personal decision, tailored to the specifics of our family. Stop taking the bare fact of our being homeschoolers as either an affront or a judgment about your own educational decisions.
11 Please stop questioning my competency and demanding to see my credentials. I didn't have to complete a course in catering to successfully cook dinner for my family; I don't need a degree in teaching to educate my children. If spending at least twelve years in the kind of chew-it-up-and-spit-it-out educational facility we call public school left me with so little information in my memory banks that I can't teach the basics of an elementary education to my nearest and dearest, maybe there's a reason I'm so reluctant to send my child to school.
12 If my kid's only six and you ask me with a straight face how I can possibly teach him what he'd learn in school, please understand that you're calling me an idiot. Don't act shocked if I decide to respond in kind.
13 Stop assuming that because the word "home" is right there in "homeschool," we never leave the house. We're the ones who go to the amusement parks, museums, and zoos in the middle of the week and in the off-season and laugh at you because you have to go on weekends and holidays when it's crowded and icky.
14 Stop assuming that because the word "school" is right there in homeschool, we must sit around at a desk for six or eight hours every day, just like your kid does. Even if we're into the "school" side of education — and many of us prefer a more organic approach — we can burn through a lot of material a lot more efficiently, because we don't have to gear our lessons to the lowest common denominator.
15 Stop asking, "But what about the Prom?" Even if the idea that my kid might not be able to indulge in a night of over-hyped, over-priced revelry was enough to break my heart, plenty of kids who do go to school don't get to go to the Prom. For all you know, I'm one of them. I might still be bitter about it. So go be shallow somewhere else.
16 Don't ask my kid if she wouldn't rather go to school unless you don't mind if I ask your kid if he wouldn't rather stay home and get some sleep now and then.
17 Stop saying, "Oh, I could never homeschool!" Even if you think it's some kind of compliment, it sounds more like you're horrified. One of these days, I won't bother disagreeing with you any more.
18 If you can remember anything from chemistry or calculus class, you're allowed to ask how we'll teach these subjects to our kids. If you can't, thank you for the reassurance that we couldn't possibly do a worse job than your teachers did, and might even do a better one.
19 Stop asking about how hard it must be to be my child's teacher as well as her parent. I don't see much difference between bossing my kid around academically and bossing him around the way I do about everything else.
20 Stop saying that my kid is shy, outgoing, aggressive, anxious, quiet, boisterous, argumentative, pouty, fidgety, chatty, whiny, or loud because he's homeschooled. It's not fair that all the kids who go to school can be as annoying as they want to without being branded as representative of anything but childhood.
21 Quit assuming that my kid must be some kind of prodigy because she's homeschooled.
22 Quit assuming that I must be some kind of prodigy because I homeschool my kids.
23 Quit assuming that I must be some kind of saint because I homeschool my kids.
24 Stop talking about all the great childhood memories my kids won't get because they don't go to school, unless you want me to start asking about all the not-so-great childhood memories you have because you went to school.
25 Here's a thought: If you can't say something nice about homeschooling, Just be quiet!
Sabrina, is grateful for her body, family, toys, and forgot the rest!
I have been conducting a little experiment this month with a gratitude list. A friend of mine challenged me to make a journal of 10 things that I was grateful for every day, and to email it out to friends and family. I really took this to heart, prayed about it and came up with a small list of people I would share it with. I listed 10 different things daily; some of the things simple, yet I am truly grateful for them.
The impact this list has had on me is profound. It has changed me. I thought that as the days passed, that my list would become harder and harder to write. The opposite is what occurred. I found that the more I was grateful for, the more gratitude I felt. This list I wanted to share with you. It is not complete, I have misplaced the last half, but will add it when it is found.
Much of my life is crazy, chaotic, messy; and my intentions are to be "real" with my blog. However, with November being the month of gratitude and Thanksgiving, I wanted to share these things with you.
1. My Savior
2. Good friends! I have some of the best you can find
3. Music. It makes me happy, can't help but dance to it, deeply moves me, and has the ability to
rescue me from the worst of days!
4. My Parents. I miss them, but am so grateful for the their example and for their love
5. CHOCOLATE!! Self explanatory! ;o)
6. My children! My greatest treasure!
7. My Fan. Silly I know, but was great at drowning out the car alarm that went off ALL night
8. Good books to read
9. Pull ups. Potty training, and I hate changing sheets every morning!
10.All the letters and cards and notes that were exchanged between my parents. I am glad they saved them. They really had one of those relationships that you only read about in books.
11. Atonement
12. Sunrise! I'm watching it while I type.
13. Job security
14. My eternal companion. Love him with all my heart
15. Scriptures
16. The opportunity to help the Elders, help an investigator stop smoking so he can get baptised
17. sewing. I love being able to create something
18. My house. It holds a lot of sentimental value to me. It is just nice to have my own home again
19. My husbands love and affection. Yep, he still likes me!
20.The opportunity to change and become a better person
21. Restored Gospel
22. Jacob. I don't think I could homeschool and do what I do every day with out him. He is a great help
23. Cooler weather!
24. My sister Shannon. We all have someone we admire and look up to. She is mine. She is the one living person who I aspire to be like. Luv ya shanny
25. Compliments. Received a very genuine, unexpected, and nice one yesterday, and it really made my day.
26.The opportunity to homeschool. I have my bad days, but would rather them be home with me
27. Sleep! I loose a lot of it, but when I get it, Man do I love it!!
28. My right to vote
29. My vehicle! I love my suburban
30. Any holiday, associated with the consumption of chocolate I like chocolate, but I really am not a pig
31. Chewing gum. My children think that they need to eat all day long. I found that if I give them a stick of gum to chew on, they stop asking me every 10 minutes for food, and it saves me money on food! Smart thinking huh?
32. 7 lbs lost. I know, not much. But a small step towards a large goal
33. Answered prayers.
34. Our friends Jared and Michelle Johnson. No one has ever made me laugh harder! I miss you guys!
35. My children's laughter. Especially Gehret's. His is infectious. It just warms my heart to hear them laugh.
36. Snow! I miss snow. I love to play in it, throw it at people, watch it. There is something mesmerizing about snow. It is beautiful, quiet, and peaceful, and makes everything seem clean and pure. My favorite is to lay under a barren tree and look up into it with the snow all over the branches. I can't drive worth a darn in the snow though
37. My children's friends! All of them are good kids, and are good examples for my children.
38. Hot bath. I would really like a Hot Tub, but a good hot bath every now and then does the trick.
39. Richards ability to fix virtually everything. Even the things I am just positive he knows nothing about
40. Band aids. Even though there is no blood, sometimes that is all it takes to stop the hysterical sobbing
41. Church activities. The fall festival was fun! The company was good, and the children had a wonderful time!
42. Opportunity to sing in church. I can express my testimony better through the words in music. When I speak it, I just blubber and you can't really understand me.
43. Being forgiven
44. My Ward. This is probably the best ward that I have every been in
45. My church assignment. I love being in primary
46. Food storage. There have been times where we have needed to rely on it. I am grateful for it, and for the inspiration and charge to have one
47. Hand-me-downs. I was given some childrens clothes this week, and I appreciated them. It was very nice to be thought of
48. A good back massage. I would love to have a live in masseuse. Who needs a nanny or a maid. After a good massage, you wont care what your house looks like, or what your kids are getting into
49. A reminder from a dear friend that although I have lost something dear to me, I still posses something of great value. Thank you Eriik.
50. I am grateful for all of the kind words that I have received from all of you regarding these emails.
51. Spell checker!!!
52. Hugs! I am a very affectionate person.
53. My gun! Yes, I have one of my very own. I feel safer with it, and I am not afraid to use it if the need arises.
54. Fires ( in a fireplace, or campfire ) I love to sit in front of one, wrapped up in a blanket! Especially if it is snowing outside.
56. Camping. Love to camp. Anyone want to go?
57. A clean house. It doesn't stay clean for long, not with 6 little ones home all the time. I enjoy it while it lasts though.
58. Rain. I grew up in rain. It doesn't bother me. I really like a good Texas rain storm. The kind that drenches you. Every now and then, I will go outside with the kids and run around in it
59. Stars. There is nothing like laying under the stars contemplating the wonders of Gods creations.
60. Hammocks.They are relaxing! Would love to have one under my tree.
61. Finding a sweet note and gratitude list left on my computer by my husband. It made me cry
62. My husbands sense of humor. It is dry and corny, but it's funny and he makes me laugh
63. Tree swings. I enjoy swinging. There is also something romantic about a big swing, in a huge tree surrounded by property. I know, I am weird
64. Lucy Park. Walked to the Water falls yesterday, and really enjoyed it. (It is a very lovely park here in Wichita Falls, for those of you who do not live here)
65.Cereal. Every now and then, I just don't want to make dinner and am glad that I have something quick and easy to feed them.( Like last night for instance) You all know you have done it before!
66. Living prophet. I am grateful for his direction and council, and know that he is a True prophet of God
67. History! I Love history! I especially love the history channel. There is alot we can learn through the triumphs and failures of other people and nations through history. I just wish I could retain and recall all that I learn.
68. T.V . It is nice to turn it on, and have something else occupy your children's attention for a little while
69. Gratitude journal. I am glad I kept one. I am starting to have a hard time remembering what I have already said.
70. Invitation to spend time with someone. I enjoy the company of others, and I feel very loved when someone takes time out of their lives to spend it with me. Time is precious, and it means alot to me when one would give some of that up just for me.
71. Duct tape. I required some to fix a child's beloved item. I figured that if MacGyver could fix anything with it, so could I!!!
72. Elder Nelson. ( LDS Missionary in our Ward) We spend alot of time with our Missionaries, and become very attached to some of these young men! Elder Nelson goes home today, and we are very happy that he asked to spend his last day with us yesterday. He is a fantastic missionary, and a wonderful young man.
73.My bodys ability to heal itself. The Lord knew what he was doing. Give it a chance, and your body will know what to do.
74. Activities for my children to participate in.
75. Having all my children crawl into bed with me
76. Tickling! I love to tickle my kids. I used to lay down in front of my dad and ask him to tickle me. Still very ticklish
77. Swimming. Great exercise, good fun, and very calming for me
78. Yummy smells. My favorites... Cinnamon, baking, lemon, after in rains, new cars ( maybe its just leather?) cool crisp air ( the air just smells different when it is really cold outside) , and men Obsession cologne ( it reminds me of my dad).
79. Childhood memories
80. Smiles. You can tell alot about a person if you look deeply enough into their face. Smiles brighten up your face as well an entire room. I enjoy seeing a happy face!
81. Home. I know I said house earlier. This is not the same. Yes I am grateful for my house, but I am also grateful for Home. Over the years I have turned into more of a home body! I do like to travel and get out, but I really like just being at home with my family.
82.America! For the Liberty and Freedoms that it originally stood for.
83. Internet. An endless source of information, allows mass communication, fast and convenient. Just happy to have it.
84. Emotions. The ability to feel and express them deeply
85. Hindsight. It is always 20/20 isn't it. I am grateful to recognize it, and change from it.
86. Quiet. That's almost a foreign word around here. It doesn't happen often, but when it does I enjoy those few moments to be with my thoughts.
87. Trees. I have always loved trees. Especially great big ones
88. Gardening. I like to have my hands in the dirt! There are also great Gospel principles that can be learned from planting a garden. I enjoy seeing " the fruits of my labor". And eating it too!
89.The pitter patter of little feet.
100. Life. I am grateful for my life. I have had many experiences, some of them quiet hard and painful, but grateful for them. I am grateful for the opportunity to prove my worthiness to my Father in Heaven, and hope that what I have done will be enough
101. Word of encouragement and support. They are always nice to hear
102. Humor! I love to laugh.I had a good one last night. Thanks Erin for the friendly banter, harmless sarcasm, and a really good laugh!!!
103. Baby kisses! They are slimy and wet, but sure are sweet!
104.Celine Dion. Oh how I wish I had pipes like hers. She makes me happy
105. Good neighbors
106. Our Cat. I never thought that I would be a cat person. Never particularly liked them, but we got one for our girls, and the little thing really has grown on me. She's a very sweet kitty
107. Beautiful,nice, sunny weather. It has been very pleasant here in Texas
108. Halloween! It is fun to watch my kids get dressed up and all excited! It should be fun tonight
109. My Music box. When I was 16, my dad bought me this beautiful music box. I love it.
110. My eyes. There is not alot about my physical appearance that I find particularly attractive, but I like my eyes.
111. Funny things my kids say.
After sharing this with a treasured friend last night, I thought I should ad this to my list. made me laugh. Gehret told me yesterday that, " when I was a doggy, I had 13 brains". Apparently I was one smart dog. He also told me that he had 2 moms, and wanted to know why Aunt Janie ( my sister ) gave him to me. He thinks that she is his real mom. She must be nicer than me.
112.My bed. I have a feather bed pillow top and a down comforter. I call it my heavenly bed of fluff. I didn't want to get out of it this morning.
113.Sleeping children. They are always more adorable when they are sleeping
114. Trick or treat-ing with friends. I had a wonderful time last night in the company of a dear friend. Thank you for the invitation to spend time with your family.
115. Health insurance. You value it more when you have gone with out it!
116. Mountains. This is the first place I have lived without them.Washington had the cascades ( stunningly beautiful ) Utah and Idaho had the Rockies. I have no sense of direction without them. I miss hiking in them too. I love Texas, but I do miss the mountains.
117. Appreciative children. I don't know what I have done to deserve such fantastic children. They are for the most part, very appreciative children. Quick to say thank you and mean it. For some reason, the Lord has seen fit to bless me with some of his most choice spirits.
118. Education. I do not have a degree, but am grateful for what education I do have. I enjoy learning, and do my best to continue to increase my knowledge.
119. Military/Troops/Soldiers. I often take for granted what these Men and Women do for our country, and really for me as an individual. Many have dedicated their lives and given up their lives for their God and their country.
120. Breakfast with my family. Rich surprised us this morning. Woke up early ( after working overtime and didn't get home until 3:30am) and took us all to breakfast! It was nice and the kids had fun!
1 & 2. I believe that # 1-2 need to go together. I am grateful for Divine guidance and the opportunity to live here in Texas. I know that the Lord guided us here and I am grateful to be here. Texas has a special place in my heart. I am so grateful for all the wonderful people that have come into my life since moving here. Some have impacted me in such a way that I can't imagine them not being a part of my life. I am grateful we listened!
123. My Step brother David! I am glad that he is in a safe place. ( He is air force and serving in Qatar) I was very happy to hear from him today!
124. Twix! I snuck one out of my kids Halloween bag. It was yummy!
125. 10 lbs lost!!
126. My Father. I had the opportunity to share a little bit about him tonight. He was, and is one of my greatest friends. I am truly grateful for his example, and for his love for the Lord.
127. Walmart! I like the fact that I can get everything that I need at one store. Simplifies life a little!
128.Time change! I can use an extra hour!
129.Compliments from a little old man.
Some strange man grabbed my arm in Walmart today, and told me he thought I was pretty. May seem strange, but he was a harmless, sweet old man. I do however think that he was partially blind, because I had been working outside and around the house all day,was in my grubbies, still hadn't showered, had no makeup on, and I know that I had dirt smudges and remnants of Savanahs lunch on my shirt. It was sweet though, and brightened my day!
130. Sundays! I like going to church, and having the opportunity to worship God!
131. Cooking with my children.
It makes a huge mess, sometimes drives me crazy, but I look back and that is one of the few memories I have with my mother. I am sure she felt the same way, but always let me help her cook. I hope that my children will look back, and enjoy the memories they had cooking with me.
132. Church Choir
I haven't been involved with a choir for a long time. It feels good to get back. I am working hard at getting others to come back, but not having much success. Bribes aren't even working. Any suggestions?
133. Life insurance
I am glad to know that if anything were to happen to Rich, the kids and I would be taken care of, and would allow me to continue to stay home with them.
134. Temple Recommend
I may not get to go as often as I would like, but I am worthy and able to go whenever I would like
135. Being a mother
I have known from a very young age that this was my true calling. It was what I aspired to be. Many have told me that I am foolish, wasting my time and my talents, and that I could do so much more with my life.Fortunately, I do not feel the same. I have my crazy days, but truly love it.
136. Big backyard.
It is nothing spectacular, but it is great for my family
137. Genealogy.
I have been bit by the family history bug. I love it. I Love learning about my ancestors, where they lived, what they did, where they came from.... all of it. I enjoy readying their work, and performing it in the temple, and giving them the opportunity to accept the Gospel
138. Family prayers.
I love seeing all my little ones kneel around us for prayer. I also love to hear them pray for each other with out prompting from us. Like they say, the family that prays together, stays together
139. New sweatshirts. I know I am weird, but they are so comfortable and soft when they are brand new. I am wearing one this morning. After about 3 washes, they aren't soft anymore.
140.My right to bare arms. I know I said guns earlier, but am grateful to be able to own one. I hope that as a people we would not allow the government to seize our weapons. I am certainly not giving up mine
141. That Jacob is old enough to babysit!
Small stretches! He does a fantastic job, and is a very good boy!
142.Running into friends at the store.
I love it when friends go out of their way to say hello to you! Made me feel loved
143.Binds.
Haven't had any on our windows and didn't particularly like that anyone who wanted to see in could. Especially after all the crazy things that have been going on here. We got some yesterday, and I really am appreciative for them
144. Fall!
For all of you not here in Texas, it is just now fall like! I think you all know my thing with trees now. I love the beautiful colors, the cooler weather, and the leaves on my lawn.
145. Honesty
I appreciate those who are honest with me, even when they are afraid it will hurt my feelings
146. New friends.
I have made many here, and continue to make them. I love people, and associating with them.
147. Bedtime
Boy was I counting the minutes to bedtime last night. My kids were so naughty yesterday. I was afraid that if it didn't come soon, I might have had to lock them in the closet. This is where the duct tape comes in handy. First you tape them up so they cant move and escape, and then lock them up.
148. opportunity to vote today! don't forget to!
149. Family trips.
We are planning one. We are going to go spend the weekend in Dallas and go see the King Tut exhibit! I am so excited. I am an Egyptian nut!
150. Gratitude lists
I am often overwhelmed by some of your responses and gratitude lists. Please know that the person this has affected the most is myself. This little experiment has really changed me in a very short time. I am more able to find joy in simplicity, I am happier, better able to see the brighter side of things, and my capacity to love has grown. I truly am the one who has been blessed. I am grateful for each of you and love you.
152. Money
Dont have alot of it, but sufficient for our needs
153. Listeners
We all need someone who will listen and love unconditionally and not try to fix the problem.
154. Choices that I have made
For the most part, I have done my best to make good choices
155. My Talents
156. Men who still open door for women
What has happened to chilvary? Are we so bent on being treated equally that we can no longer accept being treated as ladies?
157. New paint
Painting the living room today
158. Sacrifices others have made for me
159. Babies
My greatest weakness! I love them. There are so many women around me having babies and I can't wait to get my hands on them
160. Cards
Got 2 in the mail today! Really made my day
161. The friend magazine
I love this magazine! So do my kids. What a wonderful tool to use in our homes in teaching the gospel
162. A Husband who works very hard
163. Modern medicine
I don't like to take alot of things, but am grateful for the technologies and advancements we have made in medicine
164. Dishwasher
I already do 3 loads a day, I can't even imagine what I would do without it!
165. Telephones
It is nice to pick up the phone and visit with whom ever I want when I want
166. Just doing nothing
Doesn't happen often,but when it does it is nice
167. Handmade afghan
I have an heirloom which I cherish. I love to knit and crochet, and I understand the time and effort that my ancestor put into this afghan
168. Amazon. com
I can usually find what I am looking for cheaper on amazon
169. Ability to love
170. My Piano
Music is a huge part of who I am. It is like my arm; I need it, and can't possibly see life with out it.
171. That we all have the chance to redeem ourselves from our mistakes
172. My children playing
Usually they are fighting! Today they are playing nicely with each other
173. Toothless smiles
174. Naptime/Quiet time
175. Blogs. Just made my first on. It was fun
176. My sister Janie
Even though she calls me a bazillion times a day and interupts school! She makes me laugh and I love her.
177. MP3 players
They make exersizing more enjoyable
178. Hannahs Riding instructor
I am so grateful fot the confidence and self assurance that this program has instilled in Hannah! She has finally found her thing. You watch her and you can just tell, that on top of a horse is where she belongs. She wants to be a barel racer
179. Weekends
Rich is home on weekends!
180. Washer and Dryer
In order to keep up with my laundry I have to do 3 loads a day. I can't possibly imagine being without them. I am already overwhelmed with laundry with them
181. Online bill pay
Just simplifies paying bills, and I don't have to spend money on checks
182. Park days
We have a weekly park day with other homeschoolers in my area! The kids have fun, and I need to go socialize with grown ups! Haven't been in a while and went to day! It was nice.
183. Proposition 8 passed
I guess that they are now protesting outside the San Diego Temple. Aren't we just hateful, discriminating, homophobic people?
184. Being a stay at home mom
185. The Library
I love the library. It is free, the kids love it, lots of activities to participate in. Before the Internet, the library was the place to go for endless sources of information
186. Missionary work
I am always happy to assist the missionaries in teaching the gospel, as well as be an example to other who know not of my church.
187. Walks
I love to take walks. In the park, around the neighborhood, a nice sandy beach would be nice too, in the country side. You name it. I like just strolling around. Especially when in good company!
188. Ocean
I miss the Puget sound; the islands, the smell of the salty water, digging for clams, watching the sunset over the water, having huge seagulls eat from your hand while hovering in the air, riding the ferry, the sound of the waves..... o.k I will stop now, you get my point already
189. David and Pennie Bigelow
My parents best friends. They too had quite an impact on my life and still continue to. Just felt like I needed to mention them today
190. Richard stock pile of ammunition
It's not like we have a whole room full, but we have a bunch in our emergency preparedness stuff. You know my feelings about guns. The day may come when ammunition isn't available, and we will need it for protection and survival
191. Dehumidifier
It is not so bad right now, but it is more humid here than I am used to, and I really don't like it. But, I can at least get rid of it in my house!
192. Cheaper fuel
I was so excited yesterday when I filled my entire suburban up for $63.00. In the past, it was well over $100
193.Learning
I am grateful that I have the ability to continue to learn. Spiritually, and secularly. I believe that it is expected of us to increase our knowledge
194. Random acts of service
Someone went out of their way to do something very thoughtful for me and it really touched me
195. Small inexpensive meaningful gifts
You know the ones you don't expect, didn't ask for, yet it was simple and you know they put alot of thought in to it
196.More weight lost
I am now down 13lbs!!! I keep telling Rich that I am literally working my buns off!
197. Black out fabric
It does a great job tricking your children into thinking that it is still time to sleep
198. Lunch with my family
I am glad that there is at least one meal during the day that we can all sit down together and eat
199.The Holidays
I just love this time of year
200. Trials
Each have their own. I am grateful for them. Even the hard ones. They drive you to your knees, hopefully bring you closer to the Lord, and they are what has molded me into what I am today. Now, I just need to learn to be grateful for them during them! That one is a little harder
201. Glenn Beck
I enjoy listening to him on the radio
202.Savanah
My baby and my last child. She is a feisty little stink, but I am so glad that I was able to have one more baby before my body said no more!
203. Fixed windshield wipers
This was supposed to be on Tuesdays list. The controls had a short in them and haven't been working lately. They were fixed just in time for the rain we got on Monday!!
204. Opportunity to go to the temple
I haven't been in a while and it was very nice to go. The spirit was very strong and very moving.
205. Presence of a loved one who has passed on
206. Wonderful friendships
There are a few people in my life who have deeply affected and touched my life. Those you just know that you had to have known in our premortal life.
207.Beautiful drives
The drive to the temple is about 2 1/2 hours long, and the scenery was beautiful yesterday
208.18 lbs lost!
209. The fact that someone actually noticed that I had lost weight!
Totally made my day
**Rich told me that I had to mention 3 things today that I am normally not very grateful for and say why I am grateful for them so.....
210. A Messy house
Drives me crazy, but I get to have my kids at home with me every day to mess it up
211. A chair that is always in the middle of my kitchen
Joseph has finally figured out how to get himself a cup and a drink with out asking me for help at least 50 times a day
212. Muddy footprints all over my house
The red dirt here doesn't come out very easily, and sometimes not at all, but my kids love it and they have fun playing in it. I remember playing in the mud too. We used to wet down the hill in the empty lot next to our house and slide down the muddy hill. I don't remember if it made my mom mad, but she let us do it.
213. Jacob can make lunch
I am so glad that he is capable of helping me out and enjoys cooking. He asked if he could make lunch yesterday. He made pizza all by himself.
214. Flowers
I like flowers, I like to look at them,I like to smell them, I like to get them. I remember going to the tulip farms in Washington ( as a child) and walking through all the beautiful flowers. My favorite flower is the Calla Lilly
215.Mountains
I love the mountains. I miss the mountains. I love to hike (especially in a forested area), I love to camp in them, snowmobile, fish and swim in glacier fed lakes nestled up in them, look at them. If you haven't guessed yet by all my posts, I really like the outdoors! My dad gets all the credit for that!
216. Fishing
Yes, I am grateful for fishing too. Some of my best childhood memories are fishing off of the docks at Lake Chelan ( in WA.) Catching sucker fish with cheeze whiz and bologna. We even got some with Cheetos. I still remember my fishing pole. It had wonder woman on it. I enjoy taking my kids fishing too! Anyone wanna go? Now I need a boat.
217. Scouts
I believe it was an inspired organization. What a wonderful tool in helping mold a boy into a man. I am grateful for Jacobs scout leaders
218. Good advice
When it is genuine and given kindly, it can be a great thing.
218. Enya
More music that makes me happy! I love Enya
219. Warriors way ( his martial art academy )
This has been wonderful for Jacob. I am grateful for the confidence that it instills in him, the values that they teach, and the manner in which they conduct themselves there.
220. Pumpkin Pie
Can't wait until thanksgiving. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water
221. Sippy cups
With out them, there would be a lot of messes, and I am sure a grumpier mommy.
222. Vacations
Could really use one! Would love to go do something with all my sisters. What do you think shan?
223.Family members that are Doctors
We see my brother in law, and he really is a good Dr. Listens better than most. Maybe because he has too
224.Sea food
I was reminded this week by a friend how much I like it and miss the good stuff! I don't wanna hear any sea food haters comments!! If I do, I will delete you from my list
225. Seasons
Each are different and beautiful in their own way. I love them all, but favor late fall and early spring
226. Happiness
I am so glad that I am generally a happy person. I can't even imagine what it would be like to suffer with chronic depression. My heart aches for those who's lives are literally ruled by sadness and depression.
227.New home school stuff
I just got some new American History stuff for my kids and I can't wait to get my hands on it
228. Children who listen
Now I am not saying that my children are the best listeners in the world, actually the last month has been particularly difficult with some of them. Yesterday however was very nice, and they did a really good job at listening and being good little obedient children! I think I went the whole day with out the desire to lock someone in the closet
229. Funny dreams
I had a good one a while ago. Dreamed my friend had her baby, and I stole it and told everyone I adopted one!
230. Chocolate cake
It is no secret that I like chocolate. I have decided that when I loose 2 more lbs ( that will make a total of 20 lbs lost ) I will make my self a chocolate cake to celebrate. I should make one for every 10 lbs I loose huh? Something to look forward too. Want to share some with me?
231.Baby monitors
I don't particularly enjoy being woken up by a screaming baby, but it was sweet to hear Savanah happily calling mama this morning.
232. A New day
You can always start anew, every day
233. The Constitution
I am currently studying the constitution and am gaining a better understanding and testimony of it. How far we have strayed! I am grateful to those who posses a greater understanding and are willing help me along the way.
234. Pedicures
Feet are just one of those body parts that were never intended to be exceptionally attractive. I really could care less whether or not my toenails are painted, or what others think of the appearance of my feet. They serve the purpose they were intended for; However, I had my first pedicure yesterday and it felt SOOOO Good. I loved having my feet and calves rubbed! And for now, my toes are cute. I am glad that I took the opportunity to do it at least once.
235. Dr. Pepper
I have given up caffeine for the most part, but like to enjoy one every now and then. Have had a little bit of an upset stomach all week and the DR. Helped me feel a little better!
236. I am grateful when someone cares enough about what I think to ask my opinion.
Not that I am really knowledgeable about anything in particular, but it makes me feel good that someone actually desires my opinion.
237. My heart
I have been blessed with a tender, caring, and sensitive heart. It drives me crazy sometimes because I am a big boob because of it, and sometime get hurt because I give too many people the benefit of the doubt, but in the long run I am grateful for it. Rather it be this way than cold hearted.
238. Good pair of jeans
You know the kind that are worn and tattered and fit you just the way you like, but you just can't bear to toss them! That's the pair I am wearing today!!
239. Time
Time is precious. I am grateful for the little moments
240. My Patriarchal blessing
241. Trampolines
Bought one for the kids for Christmas today! We will have to see what I can still do on one!
242.Church
I love going to church even though it is crazy with the kids. We love it and the kids love it! My week is not the same if I miss it.
243. Opportunity to uplift another
244.Ability to have children
Even with complications I always enjoyed being pregnant. I am done and those doors are now closed, but I am so grateful that I was able to have children.
245. Electricity
Something I take for granted too much! Makes my life easier, brighter, and more comfortable!
246. Our Bow
If the guns fail, we have backup. The sad thing is I am not strong enough to fully draw it back. Hmmn, maybe I should start lifting weights
247. Bare feet
Even though I'm given a hard time about it, I would rather be bare foot. If I can get away with it, I will do it.
248. Showing love
249. Singing
I love to sing. I am better at expressing myself through music than I am through words. Love to listen to others singing too! Makes me happy.
250. Cards, notes, letters
Received a sweet one today and it really touched me. Made my day!
251. Trust
Something I am still learning to do, but am so grateful for the few that I feel like I can completely trust with my heart, my emotions, and even my life. Those who will still love me with all my flaws. I have many
252. My very limited knowledge of cars
I can change a tire, change the oil, and jump someone! Rich would like to take credit for it, but I learned these things in high school! My best friend was a boy( no he was just a friend! I didn't have a boy friend in high school ) and we spent a lot of time tinkering on his mustang. He taught me how to change a tire and the oil. I can also put in more radiator fluid and windshield wiper fluid. I had the chance to use my special skills last night and saved a damsel in distress. Jills ( friend in Texas) battery died and I jumped her!
253. A good cry
Sometimes us girls just need a good cry and we feel better. Nothing really needs to be wrong it is just a form of stress relief.
254. Kids that are big enough to do chores!
In some ways it makes my life easier, in others more complicated! I am just happy not to have to do everything by myself. My little slaves are required to help!
255. A Good nights sleep
I am a light sleeper and usually wake up a lot at night, but last night I don't think I moved from the position I started from. Felt great!
256. My new apple tree!
Rich bought me an apple tree to plant in the backyard! I am so excited! I love fruit trees.
257. Movies
Rich took me to a movie this last Saturday and it was fun. We don't get to go out often and it was nice to just sit and do nothing and be entertained!
258. The women I serve in primary with
I am so grateful for these 3 women. They are all a great example and source of strength.
259.My testimony of God, My Savior, this Gospel, and His plan of happiness.
260.Laughter
I know that I said this one before, but I mean it in a different light! I love to laugh. I am glad that I can laugh. Especially in and at those circumstances that are hard to have a positive outlook on. I am still learning to find the humor in things, but much better than I was.
261.You guys!
Each of you have a very special place in my heart. Love ya!
262. 20 lbs lost!
Wahooo!!! Chocolate cake anyone?
263.Gym membership
I can only stand to look at my wall while walking on my treadmill for so many days! Plus I love to swim. I get up really early and go before the kids (and the birds) wake up.
264. Opportunity to help someone in need
265. Filtered water
Had a water report sent to us from the city! Oooh, bad stuff in there! I am glad that my water goes through 2 filters before I drink it.
266. My Family
I don't think that I show enough gratitude for them, but I love the members of my family deeply.
267.Video cameras
My dad was camera happy at one point in his life. We have all sorts of videos with us a children playing, Christmas, family vacations, and alot of it was us just swimming. When my mom passed away, I used to watch them just to see her. I still love to watch them and remember the days! I am glad that I too have one and can be camera happy with my kids. My time with them is passing too quickly and I am sure the day will come when I long for them to be little again, but at least I will have my home videos to remember.
268.Cell phones
Sometimes I feel like it is a leash, but am glad to have one.
269.Picnics
I just enjoy them. Especially when it is beautiful out
270.Good clean funny jokes
Love to laugh, and Jacob told me a good one today!
271. Knowing that most of the things I am grateful for cannot be purchased! They are experienced.
272.Todays beautiful weather
Around 75 here in Texas! It was great!
273. Playing in the leaves with my children
I had forgotten how much fun that was. I kept watching them thinking about how fast they are growing up, and how I wish I could slow time sometimes.
274.Amy Grants Christmas music
I Love this CD. And Yes, I have already started to play christmas music. 1 month is not enough time. I even uploaded her to my blog
275. Christmas
I love the holidays period. I love Christmas. The celebration of the birth of our Savior, the spirit that is in the air, the way people tend to be a little bit sweeter, more loving, and service oriented during this time of year
276.My little Gehret
I don't play favorites, but Gehret is the most loving and sweet child that I have. There is something so special about him and I am very blessed to be his mother.
277. Gifts
Not in the way you think! I enjoy giving them. I love to watch someone else light up by an unexpected gift.
278.Space heaters
I would rather have a fireplace, but sitting in front of a space heater will do. Plus my windows are old and drafty, and space heaters keep the kids rooms comfortable without costing me a fortune in heating expenses.
279.Visiting with Rich
We are both so busy, and often interrupted by 6 little people. It is so nice to just sit and visit with one another when we get a chance to. It doesn't really matter what the topic is, just the fact that we get to be with each other and enjoy one anothers company.
280.Tylenol
It has helped a very grouchy, teething baby feel better and be a little nicer today. Poor thing, her gums are very angry, red, and swollen
281.Smaller pant size
If you haven't noticed, I am thrilled by my weight loss. I am working very hard at being healthier and changing my life style. Not only have I lost 20lbs, but I have dropped a size too! Very happy about that! Helps motivate me even more!
Watch out, Jo Jo will wack you a good one!
Sabrina rakes the leaves in a pile for the little boys to play in! 
Savanah is waiting very patiently to come out side! It is a rare sight! Screaming is usually involved!
Jo Jo and Gehret, having fun in the leaves! 
