Week's End

It's Friday, thank heavens. Today didn't get off to the best start. I just hate starting the day grouchy with kids crying, and everyone rushing around, but at least by 8:30 or so it is semi quiet and back to normal. Even though I was tired last night, I'm glad I cleaned up the house really good before bed because at least I didn't have to worry about that this morning. Nothing is worse than being grouchy AND having a messy house. Although it doesn't take very long around here for things to look like a tornado came through.

We are starting to enter the really destructive stage with Cooper and Kale. I can't believe they are 14 months old! They like to push the bar stools and dining chairs all over the house. They like to pull out every last toy from the toy box. They LOVE to get their hands on anything they can pull out of the kitchen cupboards and I will literally catch them throwing things over their shoulders in their haste to clean everything out. And they really love to pretend they are cleaning things. What is it with my kids? Why can't they love to clean as much as they get older? Cooper and Kale will take the extra bottle brush around the house and "scrub" things. They will grab a dish towel and wipe down the walls and the fridge or any other surface. They fight tooth and nail with each other over who can push the broom around and then they will take the dust pan and act like they are emptying it in the garbage. I tell Riley I think it is because that is what they see me doing most of the day. They both have a great sense of humor and fun little personalities, but are big momma's boys and super clingy. I think they resort to screaming and crying a lot to be heard and noticed over all of the other noise sometimes. It can be a bit much some days, but I persevere for the good moments and the fun times.

Kendle has her first basketball game tomorrow which should be fun. She is loving it and practices her dribbling and bounces every day. Their coach told them she wanted them doing so many "bounces" a day or something like that and so Kendle is taking it seriously. I am kind of surprised she is loving it so much. Her coach is great and she is learning a lot. They had a little scrimmage at practice last night and Riley said she did good and was really hustling. Morgan is wishing he could be playing too. He gets his little basketball out and shoots hoops into the toy box or laundry basket. It is going to be a long wait for him to get to play sports. He is a natural and a little speed demon so we might have to try and find some pee-wee sports for him after he turns 4 in June. This kid has skills!

Well, I think after a long week of work, practices, and school we are all ready for a break. It's Friday - Pizza and a movie night!

Three Things

I saw an article on this blog with 119 Journal Prompts and thought I could use a boost writing more details about myself on my blog for journaling purposes. I hope to use some of them every week.

Three things I can't go without:
Strong rubber bands for my hair
My hair is seriously thick and wimpy rubber bands just won't do the trick. Since I wear my hair in a pony tail 5 out of the 7 days of the week these are essential to my sanity. I can't deal with my hair slipping out and getting in my face.

Air conditioning
Got to have it. Period. I get reeeaaaallly cranky and irritable when I'm hot. I can't sleep at night if I'm hot and uncomfortable either.

C.O. Bigelow Mentha Cinnamint Lip Shine
It is my all time favorite lip gloss. I hope they never stop making it. It's not sticky or gummy and it looks casually pretty.

Three celebrity crushes:
Ryan Reynolds
Christian Bale
Sam Worthington

Three favorite book characters:
Pony Boy - from "The Outsiders"
Anne Shirley - from "Anne of Greene Gables"
James "Jamie" Fraser - from "The Outlander" series

*Honorable Mention
Harry Potter - from the "Harry Potter" series
Morgan Shurtliff - from "Matters of Chance"
Sarah Agnes Prine - from "These is My Words"

Three favorite things to wear:
My wedding ring
A good fitting pair of jeans
My red pea coat

If I had to evacuate my home because of a natural disaster the three things I would take with me:
(besides my family of course)
My gun
My 72-hour emergency kit
My purse

Three Pet Peeves
People that are always late
People that talk without any tact or regard for others feelings
People that think they are the best at everything

Three things I'd do if I wasn't so afraid:
Write a book
Tell my rude neighbors exactly what I think of them blasting their music
Take my kids out in public by myself :)

Three favorite TV shows:
Glee
Friday Night Lights
Grey's Anatomy

*Honorable Mention
So You Think You Can Dance
Community
The Office

Journaling

For Today June 4th 2010

Outside my window....
We have not been experiencing typical June weather. It feels more like April with wind and rain showers that never seem to end. Gray overcast skies and wet grass are haunting me like a bad ghost. Kendle still wears a warm coat to school in the morning's and makes sure to always have her umbrella in her back pack. I'm longing for sun so my flowers and little garden can start thriving.

I am thinking....
That I need a night out with Riley. It is just always such a hassle to try and do anything and it's hard to find someone besides my parents that can take on watching all the kids. This week has been especially draining though and we need some time to ourselves. The sad part is I am usually ready for bed by 8:00 so I'm not much of a fun date. I'd probably fall asleep in a movie.

I am thankful for.....
A sense of humor. Sometimes that is the only way I can survive the craziness that is my life right now. I'm glad I can usually end up laughing about the things that upset me. My kids probably think their mom is a bit loopy sometimes when I start chuckling to myself.

From the kitchen.....
Riley went grocery shopping for me late last night so I have stuff on the counters to put away. He put away all the freezer and refrigerator items. Dinner has been a real chore this week with softball games and soccer practice interrupting the dinner hour. I need to work on my dinner schedule for the next few weeks and get organized again.

I am going....
To try and do more fun things with the kids during the day. School will be out in a little over a week so we've been making some fun plans of things to do.

I am hoping.....
Summer weather makes it's appearance soon. I want to start taking the babies on some walks in the mornings.

I am hearing.....
The steady hum of the dishwasher, babies babbling, and Morgan playing and talking to himself. He can get very quiet when he is sneaking into snacks so that's when I get worried. His new favorite thing to sneak is marshmallows.

Around the house....
I wish I could get to the point where the house stayed clean but I don't think that will happen anytime soon. I try to do little pick ups throughout the day -in the morning after breakfast, before lunch, before dinner, and before bedtime. That helps a lot.

One of my favorite things....
Summer footwear. I recently purchased a couple of new pairs of cute sandals which always get me pumped up for the warm months ahead.

A few plans for the weekend....
No plans, just working around the house and yard. I wanted to make some new curtains. I saw a cute idea that requires no sewing making them out of canvas painting drop cloths. We'll see if I can pull it off.

Something to remember.....
Kendle had her second grade play yesterday. It was really, really cute. It was a bug play about all of the bugs having a summer picnic. She was a flipping beetle and this was her little line: "This is so exciting, I love to plan a trip. A picnic is so inviting, I feel like I could flip!" Then she was supposed to do a little somersault and she was really worried she wouldn't be able to do it, but she did it, although I could barely see over the person sitting in front of me. All of the songs were really cute and I loved watching her cute little face sing and dance with her classmates. I can't believe second grade is almost over and she will be a big third grader next year.

{Here she is with a few of her classmates before the play started}

{A quick shot with one of her friends afterwards}

Also, I never got around to posting a picture from when she was the Tri-Cities Exchange Club Student of the Month back in April so here are a few:

The Exchange Club is an all volunteer service organization that promotes Americanism [having pride in our country, respect for the flag, and appreciation of our freedoms], community service, youth excellence, and scholarship opportunities. Their history dates back to 1911 and they were one of the first to allow women into their organization. Our local chapter is made up of wonderful volunteers - judges, nurses, counselors and business men and women.

Kendle received a nice plaque, a 50 dollar savings bond, and some local gift certificates along with a lunch provided by the Exchange Club. We attended along with her teacher from school that nominated her. It was really nice. One thing that actually got me kind of teared up was that they had us tell them what we were most proud of about Kendle. Then her teacher spoke a little about her and what touched me most was that not only was her teacher proud of her academically, but she loves the fact that Kendle knows 100 percent who she is and doesn't get involved with things at school that aren't good. She's kind to the children in her class and treats them with respect. I was seriously prouder about her being a good human being, than being a good student at that moment. I'm proud of my Kendle girl and all she is becoming.

Family Update

Riley got offered and accepted the position of varsity girls soccer coach for Southridge High School. That means that he will be coaching not 1, not 2, but 3 teams this year - high school boys, girls club, and now high school girls. Yes, we have gone totally insane and just love to keep adding chaos to more chaos. We are gluttons for punishment I guess. This is going to be a really busy year for us, but we are going to tough it out and hopefully it will be worth it to have the additional income. So between his FOUR jobs, you could say he is a hard working guy. I am trying to be thankful for these opportunities instead of resentful knowing that they are giving us the little extra cushion we needed this year with the twins and it is a blessing. I get to be at home with my kids with everything we need and I couldn't ask for more. He's going to be putting new flooring in our house during spring break and I can't wait.


Kendle is going to be playing softball this spring and I am excited for her. I think it will be a lot of fun, especially since one of her friends will be playing with her. She's also been practicing extra hard on the piano to get ready for her recital that is coming up in May. She is a reading machine and goes through books quickly, usually a book a night. Sometimes I have to tell her to turn the light off and go to bed. I always think the late night reading will hinder her getting up in the morning but it never does, she is an early bird at heart. She is a really talented writer and artist and is always entertaining us with her witty and amazing stories. I really think she has a knack for it. We get to take her out to lunch on Wednesday with her teacher for being student of the month and she is really excited about that. She is a good helper and an extra set of hands when I need them. She continues to be joyful, exuberant, and extremely loud but we love her anyways.


Morgan is a whirlwind of fun and play. He's been totally potty trained for the last few months and is such a good boy about it. I am so happy with him and that we've conquered that battle. It is a huge relief to me and I know I don't have to worry about him going. He is such a little chatterbox and talks and sings the live long day. I love his happy go lucky spirit. We are starting to see a bit of the terrible two's. There are moments of stubbornness and tantrums, but I know a lot of it is due to my being busy with the babies the majority of the time and not being able to help him with what he needs or wants. He is a little overzealous with the twins sometimes, but I think he is just super excited to have some buddies to play with. It will be so fun for all of them in the next few years. When we get a quiet moment in the evenings he likes to come sit with me and get some mom cuddle time. I try to enjoy it because I know those moments will get few and far between. I adore his little face and smile and he continues to be my buddy. Sometimes I wish I could freeze him at this age because he is so cute.


Cooper and Kale are now 16 weeks and getting to be some chubby, chubby, boys. They just seem huge to me, but maybe that is because I am packing them both around and my arms get a serious daily workout. I was hoping these last two would be on the calmer end of the spectrum, but I guess I'm just destined to have really active movers. They both are already walking around in walkers and have both rolled over in their cribs. And speaking of their cribs, they are all over the place. The last few nights I have slept them in separate cribs because they have been moving around so much and I will find them completely turned around with their arms sticking out of the crib. It made me wonder this morning if they are trying to find each other because usually when they sleep together, no matter how far apart we lay them down, they always end up smack dab side by side with their little heads together. Maybe they are missing that. In any case, Cooper is definitely the better sleeper of the two which isn't much of a surprise because he reminds me more of Morgan while Kale is much like big sister Kendle - not just in how he sleeps, but boy does he have a temper and he is very sensitive. Both boys give the biggest smiles though and are so happy most of the time. They just talk and chatter and laugh. They love getting attention and they love to be held and talked to. What good boys they are. I just look at them every day and think - wow! I love them so much.


I feel like my days are mostly a blur of diaper changes, feedings, cleaning, laundry, and meals. I really feel like I'm being blessed with more patience than I thought I'd ever be capable of and the ability to get most of the things done around the house I need to do. Thank goodness for this blog so I can write down things I know I would probably forget in the hustle and bustle. Most nights when everything is winding down and I am reflecting back on the day I am amazed at what I was able to do and that I made it through another tough day. Every day feels like an accomplishment and right now the little things feel like big things. It is a very satisfying feeling to know that I am succeeding at taking care of my family and trying my best to be a good mother and wife. No matter how discouraging those tough and long days can be, I choose not to let those feelings keep me from being happy. There are days when I can feel the wave of being overwhelmed about to drown me, but I just keep swimming although sometimes it feels like I'm just treading water rather than getting anywhere. I know everything I am experiencing right now is making me grow and pushing me to become a stronger and more capable person. My sister-in-law Molly that also has twins told me that after this I would feel like I can do anything and make it through anything and I think she is right. In my spare moments I've been trying to finish a book that has been taking me forever to read and work on a few craft projects. Sometimes I feel guilty taking the time to do those things when I could be using the time to do something more productive, but I always feel better when I do those little things for myself. This week I am getting rid of all my maternity clothes! Hurray for that, it is a sad but good feeling.

Journaling

(Wishful thinking for spring via)

For today February 26, 2010

Outside my window....
It is a gray and drizzly morning here in Pasco. This weather keeps feeling like spring is right around the corner, and I hope that it is. The last few afternoons have been fairly descent despite some wind, but that hasn't kept Kendle and the rest of the neighborhood kids from playing and riding their bikes.

I am thinking....
It feels good to have the house mostly clean, be showered and dressed, and have both babies sleeping. This is a rare moment. I forget what a quiet house sounds like sometimes.

I am thankful for....
Riley realizing I've had a hard week and needed some time to myself. He's coming home at noon so I can get out of the house and get a much needed break. I think he recognizes that glazed over look I start getting in my eyes when I am starting to feel like I've lost touch with the outside world. I think I'll just go shopping and aimlessly wander and enjoy the fact that no one is crying or saying they need to go to the bathroom. I have a whole long list of things I've been wanting to shop for.

From the kitchen....
I'm going to throw together some Local Boyz chicken in the crock pot just for me for dinner tonight. I got the recipe from my sister-in-law Debbie years ago and it is a knock off of one of the good college eating joints in Corvallis. I don't even measure anymore, just throw some chicken breasts, water, soy sauce, a teaspoon or two of ginger, some brown sugar (can't remember if that was in the original recipe or not), pepper, and some garlic into the crock pot and then shred/chunk up when it's done and serve with hot white rice, veggies, and pineapple for dessert. It's so easy and so good. Leftovers are great too. It always makes the house smell like a yummy restaurant.

I am going....
To try and go with the flow more. I need to let things roll off my back and focus on the big picture.

I am hoping....
I can keep up my weight loss. Lost another pound this morning.

I am hearing....
The hum, hum, hum of the washer and dryer which are pretty much always in use around here. Also, Morgan is playing with the little blue chairs and stacking things on top of them. He loves to build things and use his imagination. He has the cutest little conversations with himself.

Around the house....
I've been looking for some cute decorations for spring. I am usually not a big "seasons" decorator, but I think I am just extra excited for spring this year. I'm also ready to change up some colors in my decorating. Change is the theme lately.

One of my favorite things....
I love sugar free gum. I've been chewing it a lot lately and it keeps me from snacking. I keep a variety so I don't get bored of one kind.

A few plans for the weekend....
The only thing I want to do this weekend is catch up on some sleep, however I'll probably be doing the usual Saturday routine. Riley has a team dinner for his girls club team tonight and will be taking Kendle and Morgan with him, which will help somewhat with my night. I would really like to get the hall bathroom painted this weekend. And I have three books waiting to be read!

Something to remember....
I got a call from Kendle's school yesterday letting me know she was chosen as March's student of the month. We're so proud of her and the hard work she puts in at school to be her best. Her teacher nominated her because of her strong work ethic, desire to learn, and ability to work well with and respect others even while they were acting out of character. (Riley and I got a good laugh out of the last part.) Riley and I agreed that while we may have to tell her to clean her room five thousand times, and not fight with her brother every five seconds, that she is still a great girl and doing the right things at the right times and we need to remember that a lot more. I'm grateful for the little person she is becoming.

*Journal Thoughts*

I realized I haven't done a journal post since back in April before I got bad morning sickness with the twins. Thought I better start back up.

Outside my window.....
It's been raining and wet and we've had foggy mornings all week. Kendle has been in heaven getting to use her new umbrella she got to pick out last Saturday at Target. It's white with polka dots and she's been more excited about carrying it around than anything else lately.

I am thinking....
About how much I liked the movie "Sherlock Holmes" starring Robert Downey Jr., Jude Law, and Rachel Mcadams. Riley wanted to see it for his birthday so we went last night and we loved it. I love a good action adventure. It just goes to show that sometimes you shouldn't listen to other people's opinions since I had heard from a few people that they didn't like it. We thought it was awesome. I loved the set, the music, and all the actors. No bad language either which was a welcome change since the last movie we saw was Avatar and it seemed like every other word in that was bad.

I am thankful for....
The opportunity to be a mother. I learn something new every day.

From the kitchen....
Riley and one of his buddies are BBQing and smoking some meat today and every time I open the fridge I can smell the meat that is marinating. For some reason it takes on a really strong garlic odor. I love to eat garlic, but not smell it. It's kind of making me gag. It reminds me of this old man we used to pick up for church when I was a kid and he always smelled like garlic because he would eat tons of dill pickles.

I am going....
To try and tackle about fifty loads of laundry today and hack out the jungle that has become the children's room. Every bedroom in our house has the same problem - too many clothes. I try and pair down, but the kids are at the age where they grow out of things so quickly it can be hard to keep up with the cleaning out process. Especially the twins. I have laundry baskets full of things they have already grown out of. Yikes! They are already wearing a lot of size 6 months clothing.

I am hoping....
Kendle has a good day at school today. I had kind of a cross moment with her before she left for the bus about her homework and I feel horrible. It was one of those moments where I could have fixed things for her, but I realized she needed to learn a valuable lesson of accepting her own consequences.

I am hearing....
Babies babbling and Morgan singing along to Dora the Explorer. The usual background to my day.

Around the house....
There are so many little projects that need to be done or finished. It seems like we can never quite get caught up. Hoping to cross some more off this weekend.

One of my favorite things....
I love the smell of baby lotion. There is almost something magical about the smell of a freshly bathed baby covered with Johnson's baby lotion.

A few plans for the weekend....
Kendle is going to a friends tonight and then a birthday party at Monkey Dooz tomorrow. We are hanging out with some friends tonight. Riley has soccer tomorrow and then hopefully can work on some things for me after that. I need to go to the library sometime either today or tomorrow. That's about it.

Journal Thoughts

*For Today April 6th 2009*

Outside my window...
We have been having the most gorgeous weather the last few days. The sun is out in full force in all its glory and spring has officially sprung. Saturday we went to the Southridge Soccer game and it was so warm I didn't even need my coat. I worked in the yard afterwards and pulled weeds and got rid of the debris from winter. Kendle helped me and we got quite a bit done. We let Bogie out to run around and we all just played and enjoyed the sunshine. Yesterday we were at my parents for Conference and it was so warm outside that the kids enjoyed running around and jumping on the trampoline. We all came home with some freckles I think. The weather forecast today is predicting it gets up to 72 degrees with lots of sun. Hurray! This is my favorite time of year.

I am thinking...
About our busy week we have ahead of us. I have lots to get done before the weekend, still need to do a little Easter shopping and get the kids' new Easter clothes pressed. I'd really like to get some nice pictures of Kendle and Morgan together in their cute outfits this year instead of our usual super fast pictures before we walk out the door for church, where kids are crying and upset.

I am thankful for...
My body. I am constantly reminded of the blessings of being healthy and strong. I'm thankful I can run around and chase my kids in the yard, and bend down to garden and plant flowers. I can lift and move things and take care of my family and my home.

From the kitchen...
My mother sent me home with extra food from dinner at their house yesterday (yum) including some of my grandma's famous rolls. Those will not last long around here. I need to do some baking today and try to get ahead a little bit for the rest of the week.

I am going...
To do my usual after the weekend disaster control this morning. Luckily it is not too bad since I did a ton of cleaning on Friday, and then we left Saturday night to stay at my parents house. Today will just be some little loads of laundry and tidying up. I need to keep working on my sharing time for primary on Sunday and possibly run to the store. I hate going for just one thing (diapers), so maybe I can get Riley to stop in for me instead on his way home. I do need some new gardening gloves as well though.

I am hoping...
My mother-in-law's doctor appointment goes well today. Her leg injuries are not healing and the prospects are not looking too good at this point. They will be running lots of tests today and looking at her options of what they can do from here. We are hoping and praying for the best.

I am hearing...
Dora the Explorer and Morgan laughing and talking to himself. He has a good little imagination and funny personality. I love listening to his little voice when he's playing and he doesn't know I'm around.

Around the house...
I got a lot done last week and I am enjoying my newly organized bedroom closet. I'm always amazed at how every time I clean out I am able to get rid of more stuff. Next I need to do Morgan's bedroom. He is too big for his changing table now, and we can move that out to the garage and free up some more space in his room. He loves to sit in his room and look at books, so it would be fun to get him a little chair to put in there.

One of my favorite things...
Cold, refrigerated peanut butter M & M's. Yum. Definitely one of my favorite treats. Only if their cold though, which is why I love Fairchild cinemas here in Pasco. They have them in a little freezer/fridge over by the snacks. Reason enough for me to like going there.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Riley has 3 Soccer games and practice, cousins coming to stay, birthday parties, a few meetings, and hopefully lots more sun so I can plant some flowers and spend more time outside.

A picture thought I am sharing...

Riley took Morgan to get a real hair cut last week (this picture was taken on his phone, so the quality is not very good). He said Morgan was such a good boy, sat perfectly still and didn't cry or make a fuss. When he got home I could tell he thought he was pretty hot stuff.

*Journal Thoughts*

For today March 25, 2009

Outside my window...
The sun is shining and there is a small breeze. I see some dark clouds off in the distance that hopefully will stay away. There are a few buds and plants that are trying to come up and make me believe it really is spring.

I am thinking...
About movies I would like to find online to buy for our kids. I loved the Anne of Green Gables movies as a girl, and some of the old family feature films. There are also a lot of good old Disney movies you can't find at the stores anymore. I get really sick of a lot of the kids movies out nowadays that seem to be more and more obnoxious.

I am thankful for...
Wonderful friends. I feel really lucky to be at a place in my life right now where I am surrounded by people who genuinely care about me and bring zero drama to the table.

From the kitchen...
I made home made pizza last night with a new recipe for the crust and it was really tasty. I found a pizza hut copy-cat recipe that was surprisingly easy and I thought it turned out well. Even Kendle, the pickiest child on the planet scarfed down a big piece and proclaimed it "very yummy". So at least that's one more meal I can make that I know she will eat.

I am going...
To pick up the house a bit, pick up Kendle from a friends house in a little while, and then head to my parents to visit my little brother and sister who are on spring break from college. I still have not quite recovered from the weekend. I have just been going, going, going a million miles a minute for the last three days. I went to bed at nine o'clock last night I was so tired. What I really need to do though, is fix Kendle's pants that need to be hemmed and patched. That girl literally has only one or two pairs of pants left that are not holy and ragged.

I am reading...
Still on "The Appeal" by John Grisham. It is about a chemical company that has been taken to court for toxic dumping that has caused deaths and illnesses to half the town. There are lots of people working behind the scenes to make sure the chemical company comes out on top. It is starting to get really good. My mind always tries to start working out the possible scenarios for how the story is going to end, but with John Grisham it could end up being something totally unexpected.

I am hoping...
We can do something fun during spring break next week. So far we don't have any plans, but I've been doing some brainstorming. Hmmm.....what to do.

I am hearing...
Almost complete silence, Morgan is down for a nap and this is my favorite part of the day. The house is quiet and peaceful. I could almost go take a nap...

Around the house...
There are lots of things that need to be done, many of which I would rather not get to anytime soon. All of the closets need to be cleaned out and organized. Our linen closet in our bedroom is out of control, I went to grab a towel this morning and I thought I was being attacked by everything else that was falling down on me.

One of my favorite things...
My new red sunglasses.













A few plans for the rest of the week...
I'm attending a Relief Society activity at the church tomorrow night. It is to celebrate the "birthday" of the Relief Society organization in our church. With more than 5.2 million members in more than 170 countries, the Relief Society is one of the oldest and largest women’s service organizations in the world. I am so thankful for the opportunity it provides for me to serve and reach out to others. Also, Riley has games tonight and Saturday so hopefully the weather stays nice.

Something to remember...
I went to visit Kristen in the hospital this morning and got to hold her new baby boy Colton. He was asleep the whole time I held him and I couldn't stop thinking about how little babies are the sweetest things in the entire universe. If I got to sit and rock new babies all day long I would be one happy lady. It never ceases to be amazing to me that these tiny little human beings are so precious and perfect.

*Journal Thoughts*

For Today: Monday March 16, 2009

Outside my window...
It doesn't look too bad out there today. It has been really windy the last few days around here though. The forecast is saying mostly wind and clouds today, if the gusts would stop it would be pretty nice out there. Definitely ponytail weather for me as long as it keeps up.

I am thinking...
About laundry, bills to be paid, bath tubs that need scrubbing, and my kitchen floor that needs mopping. Nothing too exciting and none of which I am very excited to do.

I am thankful for...
My family. On Saturday my mom came up and helped me wrestle Morgan at the soccer game and it was really cold. Probably not the most fun way for her to spend her Saturday afternoon, but the kids love seeing her. Later that evening one of Riley's old friends came for a visit and talked about how much he wants to get married and have a family (and how much his parents want grandchildren). I know that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children. *The Family: A Proclamation to the World

From the kitchen...
Kendle helped me do the dishes last night and my kitchen is really clean, a good way to start my Monday morning. We also got a jump on our before school morning routine by doing one of our biggest time savers, which is making all of her sandwiches that go in her lunch for the whole week all at one time and then sticking them in the freezer.












It's so much easier to do it this way and only have to make one mess, then I just pull one out in the morning, stick it in her lunch box and it's ready to eat by lunch time. They thaw pretty quick. It makes me a much happier mom, I really dislike making peanut butter sandwiches in the morning.

I am going...
To zip around town doing some quick errands to today. I need to return a few things to a store, drop off some books and return a movie.

I am reading...
The Appeal by John Grisham. So far so good, typical Grisham storyline revolving around a legal case, shady workings behind the scenes and some drama.

I am hoping...
We can reach our family goal of having Family Home Evening every week for the whole year. So far we have not missed. It's getting tricky now that Riley has started soccer and they have nightly practices, but we're still determined and have worked around it so far. When we hit the six month mark we'll do something fun.

I am hearing...
The big street sweeper truck just drove by with a big rumble. Morgan is eating his favorite breakfast of cinnamon roll flavored oatmeal and laughing at some cartoons on TV.

Around the house...
I have the urge to de-clutter Kendle's room while she's at school. This is a regular thing, she accumulates lots of stuff. If one of her friends gives her something or draws her a picture, she will hang on to it forever. Morgan also had a "party" in his room yesterday and pulled out all of his dirty clothes from the hamper and all of his shoes and hats from their baskets. Maybe I can get him to "help" me clean up. Riley and I have been making plans to do new floors, and repaint - now we just need to get motivated to do it. Riley is also cleaning out the garage for me today, hurray for that!

One of my favorite things...
Mr. Clean magic erasers. I will be getting some good use out of them this week. Little man took a pen and wrote all over the inside of the computer armoire.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Primary and Cub Scout meetings, Kendle has class pictures, Riley has soccer practice and a game on Friday, and Saturday is Wicked in Portland. Can't wait, can't wait, can't wait. I get to see lots of family too and it will be a real treat.

Something I want to remember...
Morgan is so funny about wearing his hats around. He likes to wear them slightly to the side and pulled down at an angle over his eye. Whenever I try and fix it he gets really mad and says "no!" and then moves it back to where it was. He is so particular about certain things like that. Also when he eats, he has to have everything very orderly. He puts his cup in it's spot and lines up his plate. We definitely have a little guy on our hands that knows how he likes things to be.

Journal Thoughts

*For Today March 9, 2009*

Outside my window...

We've had really pretty sunshine the last few days that have been so nice. We've had the blinds all open and windows open all weekend. Today however, they are predicting rain or snow. It's pretty cold out too. No snow please.

I am thinking...

About Parent Teacher Conferences we have this week. It's always interesting to visit with Kendle's teacher and talk about the progress she's been making. I like her teacher a lot and that she pushes Kendle to do more. I'm so grateful for good teachers who really care about their students.

I am thankful for...

The ability to purchase medicine. Our whole family was so sick this week (some still are) and I don't think I would have made it through without being able to take medicine to help me feel better. It's something so small that I usually take for granted, but it really is a blessing.

From the kitchen...

I made a menu last night for this week again, it makes everything so much easier for grocery shopping and planning. I always leave one night open for leftover/cook's choice so we have a little flexibility in case we change our plans for a night. I also don't have to deal with everyone asking me what's for dinner, I can just point to the paper on the fridge. Last week I made some pumpkin muffins that were really yummy that the kids could have for snacks. The recipe calls for using whole wheat-flour, but I think when I make them this week I'll do half wheat, half regular flour. I guess you can also substitute apple sauce for the oil to make them extra healthy.

Pumpkin Muffins

1 cup whole wheat flour (or regular flour)

1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

1 cup light brown sugar

1/4 cup vegetable oil

1 can (15 oz.) 100% pure pumpkin

2 large eggs

1 1/2 cups granola (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees, line or grease muffin cups.

Beat sugar and oil until blended, add pumpkin and eggs and beat well. Gradually stir in dry ingredients. Spoon batter into muffin tins. Bake 15 - 20 minutes.

*Optional, press small amount of granola onto top of batter in each muffin tin before baking.

I am going...

To do a quick house clean-up, give Morgan a bath, and get ready for my primary meeting this afternoon. After that I need to go grocery shopping and drop off some books.

I am reading...

I FINALLY finished reading "The Story of Edgar Sawtelle". It was a huge disappointment, in my humble opinion. I feel like I wasted the last three weeks on it. The ending had no closure and left me feeling like - "what the heck happened?" There were parts in it that were good and I thought it had a lot of potential to be very interesting, just didn't measure up to all of the hype I heard about.

I am hoping...

That I don't go crazy with Kendle only having half-day school week because of parent teacher conferences. The "I'm bored" line has reached an all-time record in our house, it's driving me crazy. This weather had better hurry up and get warm so she can play outside.

I am hearing...

Just quiet, Morgan is just starting to stir around in his crib in his room. Our neighborhood is almost completely silent this morning.

Around the house...

It was kind of chilly this morning when I woke up, had to turn the heat up a few notches and grab a sweatshirt. I'm sitting across from the piano, and I can see that some fun little person put about a thousand new hand prints and smudges all over the side of it. That will be on my list of things to clean today. I got a good start on laundry over the weekend, so there is only a few loads to finish today. On Saturday we put Kendle's bed on some of those riser things you can buy to give her some extra storage. She has enjoyed her "tall" princess bed as she says. I'm thinking I'll buy her some clear under-bed storage containers like I have to put her off-season clothes in to free up room in her closet and dresser. She really wants to repaint her room pink, but I'm not so sure about it. I'd rather do it something more neutral, but we'll see.

One of my favorite things...

My KitchenAid stand mixer. I use it all of the time to make cookies, bread, whatever. I've had it for almost 4 years now I think, and it is probably getting kind of tired from all of the use. Too bad KitchenAid doesn't have a trade-in/trade-up program because I'm thinking I'll need a new one before too long.

A few plans for the rest of the week...

We have PTC's tomorrow night, Riley has soccer practice all week with a game on Friday night and a game on Saturday. Saturday they play Pasco so it should be a really good game. Other than that we don't have a lot going on, just hoping to enjoy the week and hopefully get to see some sunshine. Hopefully Riley and I can get a date night in there somewhere.

Something I want to remember...

Last night Riley was really tired and miserable from his cold and was laying on the couch watching something on TV. Pretty soon, I mosied over to relax on the couch by him. Next thing I know, here comes Kendle, and then Morgan and pretty soon we are all just scrunched up together on our big couch. It was kind of comical, but I took a mental snapshot of it in mind because I know it won't be too far in the near future when our kids won't want to snuggle with us on the couch like that. It was great and a good feeling knowing that our kids want to be where we are.

Happy Monday!

*For journal ideas visit the simple womans daybook.blogspot.com

*picture via

Journal Thoughts

*For Today February 23, 2009*

Outside my window...
It's dark and drizzly. We've been having some wet days. Yesterday morning it poured down rain, which would have been nice if I didn't have to go out in my church clothes and high heels and carry a heavy toddler through a parking lot of puddles.

I am thinking...
About everything I need to get done today. I have a few more things to pick up for the Blue and Gold Banquet tomorrow night. I'm also thinking that I feel a sore throat coming on and I can't get sick this week. What to do for FHE tonight?

I am thankful for...
Blessings and a Heavenly Father who watches over his children. This weekend some of my younger cousins (Mitch, Parker, and Megan) were involved in a bad car accident over by Othello. I'm so very thankful they are all OK.

From the kitchen...
I'm thinking of making chicken enchiladas for dinner tonight. I haven't made them in a long time and they are one of Riley's favorites (and mine). I think I've got all of the ingredients on hand. Yummy.

I am wearing...
Pj's. I am so tired this morning. I was hoping I could get Kendle off to the bus and then sneak back to bed for a little bit until Morgan woke up, but he heard the hustle and bustle going on today and woke up a little earlier than normal.

I am going...
To straighten up the house and then do some quick shopping. Don't think I'll get a workout in today, maybe this afternoon when I put Morgan down for nap.

I am reading...

Still working on Edgar Sawtelle, but I've been distracted by all of the magazines I've been getting in the mail. I love all of the spring articles and ideas that start popping up this time of year. I love Better Homes and Gardens and Real Simple.

I am hoping...
That I can be really organized this week. We have a lot going on and I hate the feeling of things being chaotic and crazy. We're leaving Friday morning for our trip, so by Thursday night I need to have everything done and ready to go, including bags packed up for the kids to go stay with grandma and grandpa.

I am hearing...
Dora the Explorer. Morgan will come running when he hears the theme song. I don't know what it is about that show that sucks kids in the way it does but they all love it.

Around the house...
I need to go gather up all of the "randoms" that have made their way into the family room over the weekend - like one of Morgan's stray socks, pages of the newspaper, blankets, books etc...Little by little it starts looking like a lost and found.

One of my favorite things...
Every week in school, Kendle writes a new story that her teacher helps them make into a little book. They illustrate them and it is quite cute. They bring them home, we as parents read them and write little comments on the back, and then send them back to school. I love them - Kendle comes up with some really funny things and draws some great pictures. We really get a kick out of reading what comes out of her six year old imagination.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Shopping, Blue and Gold Banquet, packing, finish my book so I can take books back to library, hopefully work out almost every day. Get to bed early.

Something I want to remember...

Last night I taught Morgan how to say "I love you". I was trying to teach it to him in sign language, but he kind of did his own thing. He points to his eye, then folds his arms, then shouts "you". It was the most adorable thing ever. He has been such a fun guy lately. He is talking a lot more now and just plays and laughs all of the time. He likes to come snuggle with me at night while I'm relaxing on the couch.

Have a great Monday!

For journal ideas visit the simple womans daybook.blogspot.com

Journal Thoughts

*For Today February 17th, 2009*


Outside my window...
The sun is shining. It has been really pretty the last few days. The kids have been wanting to spend more time outside (which is fine with me). Morgan has figured out that he really likes to swing.

I am thinking...
About vacation rental houses at the coast for Thanksgiving this year. Once you've looked at dozens they start to all blend together. We have such a big family that we have to find a huge house.

I am thankful for...
A good night's rest. Sunday night I was so tired that I kept falling asleep on the couch and I ended up going to sleep at 8:00 pm and slept until 8:00 am. It was a miracle. I felt so much better.

From the kitchen...
I'm trying to figure out what to make for dinner tonight so I can get that going early today. I've been going through a phase where nothing sounds good to make and I haven't been planning a menu like I usually try to do.

I am wearing...
Workout clothes, sweatshirt, and crazy pony tail. I just got Morgan out of the bath tub and he got my socks all wet, so I'll have to get some new ones.

I am going...
To pick up the house, workout, fold some laundry, go through the mail pile, and play with Morgan. *Write up a menu for the rest of the week's dinners.

I am reading...
Still on "The Story of Edgar Sawtelle". It is kind of a slow read, but good. I just have not had the time to sit down and read for more than five minutes at a time, and I've been too tired at night to read before I go to bed much.

I am hoping...
This nice weather sticks around for more than a few days. I'd love to start taking Morgan on some walks and spend time outside more.

I am hearing...
Planes flying over our house. After hearing about that terrible plane crash in Buffalo, New York it has made me even more aware and apprehensive about how close we live to the airport here. Sometimes those planes fly so low over our this part of town.

Around the house...
It looks like there was a wild party here last night. I think Morgan has pulled out every single toy that he owns and then some.

One of my favorite things...
Driving in the car when my kids are sound asleep. On our way back from my parents house yesterday afternoon, the kids just crashed and slept the whole way home. It makes the drive go by so fast. I love the quiet and I can actually listen to music for once.

I'm looking forward to...
Getting out of town for a few days for our anniversary at the end of the month. A few days of rest and relaxation are always good.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
A few meetings, shopping, a possible girls night. My sister-in-law Dori is scheduled to be induced tonight, so hopefully we will get to meet our new nephew soon.

Here is a thought I am sharing with you...

*picture via Real Simple

Journaling

*For Today February 9th*

Outside My Window...
It's cold and a bit frosty. Drab and grey. February is an interesting month for weather around here. You never know what you are going to get.

I am thinking...
About Kendle. I just sent her off to school and it is always a very tense time in the morning. We're always rushing to get her out the door and she is not the easiest little girl to help get ready for school. She is so particular about how things have to be. Socks have to have seams perfectly straight, no tags touching her, etc...by the time I get her on her way to the bus I am exhausted. Funny thing is even though we tend to bicker a bit with each other as soon as she opens that door and hops down the front step she's all smiles and waving as she makes her way down the street. My happy little girl returns.

I am thankful for...
Parents that instilled good old traditional values in me while I was growing up. I feel like as a parent now of my own children, I have my feet firmly planted where they need to be. Even when you don't think your children are listening to you they are. I'm sure that's how my parents felt while they were trying to give me advice and teach me things when I was younger. But like they say, plant a seed and watch it grow....

From the kitchen...
I've got to stop making cookies. I hosted a meeting at my house last night and so I made some cookies. I don't think my working out will be productive until I can get all of the sweets out of my house. Out of sight, out of mind. It was nice to wake up to my sparkling clean kitchen this morning though.

I am wearing...
Pj's. Comfy, warm, and tempting me to not change into work-out clothes.

I am going...
To have an easy relaxing day. My house is clean, laundry is mostly done, I don't have to do sharing time this week, and I don't have anything pressing on my schedule for today. I LOVE days like this. Tonight after a short FHE lesson we are going to have our Harry Potter party for Kendle since we finished the 1st book last week. We're going to watch "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone", drink some "butter beer", eat some "licorice wands" and have a fun time.

I am reading...
Last week I started reading "The Shack" and I couldn't finish it. It was way too far out for me. I might have to go back and read the ending, but it just got too weird for me. Sorry if that offends anyone else who liked it. I usually try and stick it out, even if I'm not really into a book because I can't stand the thought of not finishing something I started but this was an exception. Now I'm a few chapters into "The Story of Edgar Sawtelle" and am really liking it. I can tell it is going to be an interesting book.

I am hoping...
Riley's ankle recovery keeps improving. He goes to physical therapy three or four times a week and he feels like it is getting stronger. He still won't be able to run for about 4 or 5 more months, but we're hoping by summer it is almost back to "normal". It's funny how running doesn't sound that fun until you can't do it for a while. I think he is going to be bummed come soccer season when he can't do more while he's coaching. I can see a big improvement though just looking at his ankle, but we shall see how things go.

I am hearing...
The "Snuggy" infomercial on TV. It must be on every other commercial, either that or the "ShamWow".

Around the house...
I did a lot of cleaning over the weekend, so the house is in great shape. I even wiped down the piano to get all of the pesky little finger and hand prints off. They'll probably all be back by the end of the day though. We'd really like to do some repainting and new flooring in our kitchen/family room. I'm terrible at making a decision on colors and types of flooring though. We've been looking for months and I just can't make up my mind.

One of my favorite things...
I love, love, love Victoria's Secret Dream Angels Heavenly Lotion. Every time I wear it people ask me what perfume I'm wearing. I've used it for about six or seven years and I hope it never gets discontinued.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
I have a presidency meeting tomorrow afternoon, Kendle's party on Wednesday afternoon, adult Ward party on Friday night, and Valentine's Day on Saturday. It should be a fun and typically busy week. I need to make a bunch of heart shaped sugar cookies, and there I go with the cookies again......

Here is a picture thought I am sharing...

*picture via Real Simple

Journal Day

*For Today February 2, 2009*

Outside my window...
I just sent Kendle off to school and the sky is looking pretty drab and gray. There might be a small chance of some sunshine peeking through some clouds today. One nice thing is that it has not been as cold the last few days. Today is Groundhogs Day, and that groundhog saw his shadow and ran back in his hole. Will we have 6 more weeks of winter? I think Al Gore would have a few choice words for that groundhog.

I am thinking...
How nice it would be to go back to bed or get a good nap in later today. Morgan has been so sick all weekend with a bad cough that has been keeping us up at night. You know you're kids are really sick when they get excited and smile to take their medicine and go run and get you the little nose suction thing-a-ma-bob to get all the gunk out of their nose. Or maybe that's just my child.

I am thankful for...
My extended family. Saturday my grandmother turned 80, and we were able to go visit her for a few hours and see some aunts, uncles, and cousins that were in town. They are all great people who would do anything to help you and are a really fun bunch. I think it's amazing that Kendle loves going to my grandparents house as much as I did when I was her age. I feel so blessed that she is able to know my grandparents and have a relationship with them that I hope she will remember for the rest of her life.

From the kitchen...
I have a plethora of brownies and cookies left over from this weekend. I need to get them out of my house pronto. One of my favorite cookie recipes that is so easy:

Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies
1 Box Devils Food Cake Mix
1/2 cup butter or margarine (one stick)
2 eggs
1 cup chocolate chips (or peanut butter chips)

Mix all ingredients together, chill in the fridge until firm. Roll into balls and place on greased baking sheet. Bake at 350 8-10 minutes.

They are scrumptious! Hence, the reason why I need to get them out of my house.

I am wearing...
Warm up pants and a sweatshirt. I am not a person who gets really dressed up every day unless I'm going somewhere. Which I might be later, but I need to work out this morning.

I am creating...
Some invitations for Kendle's Valentine's party and for a meeting at my house this coming Sunday. I'm not very good at these things, and I'll probably just break down and go buy something.

I am going...
To try and get started on our taxes this week. It is one of my least favorite things to do. It pretty much just makes me rehash the sickening reality of exactly how much money is taken out of Riley's checks every month. We always say we will do something fun with our tax returns and we never do. It ends up going to new tires or something practical like that, only because I am a worry wart. If it was up to Riley we'd fly off to some exotic vacation for a week.

I am reading...
I just finished another book by Richard Paul Evans titled "Grace". It was a very touching story about a girl who runs away from her home because of abuse and meets a kind boy who lets her stay in his clubhouse in the field behind his family's home. The ending was really sad though.

I am hoping...
To get lots of laundry done today so I don't have to do it the rest of the week. That would be a good thing.

I am hearing...
The dryer going and Riley getting ready for work. Morgan is just starting to stir in his crib. I can't believe he slept through all of the hustle and bustle this morning.

Around the house...
I have days where I want to take every last thing out of my house and start over. Too much clutter and stuff starts to make me feel claustrophobic. We need another bookshelf as ours is overflowing. We are ready for a bigger house.

One of my favorite things...
Strawberry Lemonade. I bought some more Country Time strawberry lemonade mix over the weekend and sliced up some strawberries and lemons and froze them. I can pull some out any time I want to make a yummy drink and they taste so good. Like a little taste of summer.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Kendle is attending a birthday party for a friend tonight, Riley's birthday is tomorrow night, I have lots of planning for primary and scouts, and I need to work on my sharing time for this Sunday. I'm going to work out every day this week. I'm probably forgetting something.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing...

*picture via Real Simple

Journaling

*For Today January 26th 2009*

Outside my window...

Sunshine! It looks like a beautiful (but still cold) day. What a great thing to see, sunlight streaming through the windows and it's giving me a lift in my step.

I am thinking...

About SO many things, the least of which always seems to be the case on Monday mornings - that I need to get my house back in order after a crazy day yesterday. Why are Sundays so crazy? I always try and be extra organized, I even had Sunday dinner all ready to go before we left for church. Still, I feel like if I'm constantly cleaning on Sunday and picking up the house, I do not get any rest. So - I usually leave it until Monday morning.

I am thankful for...

DVR. If I'm being honest, I'll just say that it keeps me happy. I don't have to worry about what time I put the kids to bed, or missing something important because I'm gone or Riley watching his millionth soccer game of the week.

From the kitchen...

I need to go grocery shopping, but I was just at Costco and Walmart on Saturday grabbing a few quick things and I'm not excited to go back. Grocery shopping has become one of my least favorite things to do. Especially if Morgan is with me. Sorry Morgster, I love ya but you're not a good shopping companion buddy. At least we have all of the important staples: cereal, fruit snacks, peanut butter.

I am wearing...

My pj's. Kendle had no school today and we all managed to sleep in a little and laze around a bit. I feel like I can't get anything productive done in my pj's though, so as soon as I'm done journaling I need to go get dressed.

I am creating...

Nothing. Zilch, nada, zip, zero. My creative juices are permanently on hold. Well, I am planning sharing time for this week, but I'm not sure if that counts for creating something.

I am going...

To do something fun with the kids today while we are all home together. I was hoping some more of our snow would stick around because I found a cool idea for a neat activity to do with it. No such luck though. Maybe we'll build a fort. That used to be what my brother and I would do for a go-to activity on days with nothing to do.

I am reading...

I finished "Before Green Gables" and it was pretty good. I think the author painted a pretty close picture of what you could have imagined Anne's life being like from some of the details she shared in "Anne of Green Gables". I didn't LOVE it, but it was still good. Now, I'm just reading "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" with Kendle. We are almost done and then we are going to watch the first movie again and have a little Harry Potter party.

I am hoping...

We can get our garage back in order this week. Since our little mice scare, we have had our garage in total disarray because Riley pulled everything away from the walls and set out a ton of traps and poison. I think they were attracted to the dog food and we need to get a big garbage can to put it in with a tight lid. We just have too much stuff packed into our little garage and we need to get rid of a lot of it.

I am hearing...

Kendle playing with her My Little Ponies and Morgan riding his little bike around the kitchen. It's not quiet at all, but at least they are both happy and entertained.

Around the house...

Some serious disaster control is on the agenda.

Sweeping, Laundry, Clean off kitchen counter.

One of my favorite things...

Glenn Beck. I love his humor and his view on politics. Probably one of my favorite shows on TV to DVR.

A few plans for the rest of the week...

My grandma Katie turns 80 this Saturday and we're having a party for her. Should be fun.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing...

I wish they could always be this sweet with each other.

*If you'd like to start your own journaling posts, see The Simple Woman's Daybook for these great journaling prompts.

Journaling

Monday journal post, little later than usual.

*For January 19th 2009*


Outside my window...
It's a cold and dreary day. Just one of those miserable days where you don't want to go out if you don't have to.

I am thinking...
About how people who can only say things or write things under an "anonymous" cover are cowards. My own dear, sweet mother, who doesn't have an enemy in the world received just such a letter this weekend from a poor pathetic person who didn't even have the guts to sign their name. I don't appreciate it in the media either - how many times have we heard the term "an anonymous source" claims that so and so did this and that. When it happens to you personally, you feel under attack - yet you cannot confront the attacker.

I am thankful for...
All of the positive examples I have had in my life. The class that Nancie and I taught on Saturday went really well and all weekend I've been thinking about the people that have always been stalwarts in my life. Never wavering, never losing sight of the bigger picture. I think everyone needs at least one person in their life that they can look up to.

From the kitchen...
Since it is such a cold day and I've been freezing, I decided to make a big pot of
home made beans and some cornbread muffins. They are making the house smell sooo good simmering away on the stove and are so easy peasy to make. I'm also going to bake some chocolate chip cookie pan bars for FHE tonight. Yummo!

I am wearing...
My typical mom uniform - jeans, long sleeve t-shirt, and Nike's. Hair pulled back -apron on because I was in the kitchen.

I am creating...
Some fun things with Kendle. Our latest and greatest:

We made this little sign to hang by her bedroom door, I'll try and find a cheap frame to put it in.

I am going...

To go to bed early tonight. I have been so tired lately and feel like I can't quite catch up on my zzzz's.

I am reading...

Still reading "Before Green Gables". It is pretty good so far, I just have not had time to completely dedicate myself to this book for the last week. It is starting to get more interesting though, and I love that Anne Shirley reminds me of another little girl I know.

I am hoping...

The Pine Wood Derby is a success tomorrow and not too crazy.

I am hearing...

Kendle and her little friend from next door pretending to have a picnic. I love to hear the things little girls discuss with one another. They are too cute. This particular little girl wrote Kendle the nicest card at Christmas time telling her she is glad to have a friend that is "the right kind" of person she should be hanging out with. I actually got tears in my eyes when I read that. I'm glad our home is a place she wants to be.

Around the house...

The fireplace is warming things up in the family room. My hands and feet have been freezing all day - they usually don't get warm until May. The kids were eating some goldfish crackers and a few have been smushed into the carpet so I'll probably need to get the little hand vac out and do a quick clean up. Kendle's been helping me fold laundry today - she's good at matching the socks for me.

One of my favorite things...

Days like today that are lazy and slow with no place to go. The kids actually slept in and we had a leisurely morning with a late breakfast and no lunches to pack. They've been entertaining themselves pretty well and we've been having a good day. It feels like the calm before a storm.

A few plans for the rest of the week...

Pine Wood Derby

Primary Meeting

Lunch with a friend

Shopping

Buy new cell phone

Journaling

I just noticed that on my last journaling post, I inadvertently wrote 2008 - clearly I am having a hard time adjusting to 2009! No one mentioned that in the comments section, did anyone else catch that, or were you all just feeling to sorry for me to say anything? Ha. I'll go back and edit it so I don't feel so silly.

*For January 12, 2009*

Outside my window...
It's about 33 degrees and the sun is somewhat shining. It is a really quiet morning. There seems to be none of the nasty wind we experienced last week.

I am thinking...
About brownies or rice crispy treats for our FHE treat tonight. I'm also keeping my grandma Tovey in my thoughts today as she had some scary things happen this weekend and was in the hospital.

I am thankful for...
Kind words. Sometimes you feel like there are days when you can't get anything right, and then someone can change all that with a simple phrase of kindness. I'm also thankful for Riley not minding that we had no Sunday dinner yesterday because I was gone all afternoon. It was a sandwich Sunday.

From the kitchen...
I made banana bread on Saturday and it is almost gone - it is one Kendle's favorite things for me to make. I need to toss all of the newspaper and adds from yesterdays paper laying on the counter. I'm going to make the Morgster and I some yummy cinnamon oatmeal for breakfast.

I am wearing...
Work-out clothes, hopefully this is going to be a routine I can keep up. It's nice to get it done in the mornings.

I am creating...
A class along with this gal for a stake activity in Hermiston this weekend. My mother is the Stake YW's president, and needed some extra help for their combined activity. What will the youth of that Stake think of us wild and crazy gals, I have no idea. Hopefully it will all come together. (If anyone has any ideas on the new theme "Be Thou An Example" send them my way)

I am going...
To clean, clean, clean today. Scrub-a-dub-dub. Got to whip this house into shape for our busy week ahead. I really need to mop the kitchen floors today, but I cringe at how they will look by the time I go to bed tonight.

I am reading...
My mom lent me her copy of "The Lucky One" by Nicholas Sparks on Thursday and it was a quick read -typical Nicholas Sparks- but I liked the storyline about the soldier from Iraq. I heard they might be making a movie out of it. On Saturday I picked up the book, "Before Green Gables" by Budge Wilson from the library. "Anne of Green Gables" is probably one of my top 5 favorite books of all time, and this is an authorized prequel that tells what happened to Anne prior to arriving at the train station at the beginning of A.O.G.G's and about her parents before they died. I love L. M. Montgomery, so it will be interesting to see if Wilson's story can measure up.

I am hoping...
Kendle has a good day at school today. I bought her a new little coat this Saturday that I thought she would like and she has been in love with it all weekend. She wanted to wear it to church and even to bed, and was really sad I wouldn't let her do either. But she got to wear it to school today and she was as pleased as punch.

I am hearing...
Cartoons that were left on from when Kendle was eating breakfast, that's about it. It is soooo very quiet today. Morgan is still sleeping, I kept him up a little later last night because he took a very long nap after church.

Around the house...
I need to take down all of my Christmas card pictures that are hanging on my closet door in the entry way. What to do with them?

One of my favorite things...
Sleeping in - which pretty much never happens except for Saturday morning I got lucky. Even Kendle slept until 8:00, so that was nice. I have a hard time sleeping when I hear her feet pattering all over the house in the morning. Actually I just like being able to lay in bed and know there is nothing pressing that you have to jump out of bed and spring into action for.

A few plans for the rest of the week...
Get working on before mentioned class for youth activity, get furniture cleaned (might be getting a new couch too - fingers crossed), get some birthday goodies put together for my little brother, look at paint swatches, and keep this three-ring-circus running smoothly.

Journaling

There is a blog page called the Simple Woman's Daybook that inspired me to record some details of my life each week that might seem menial to me, but would perhaps be valuable to look back on. I'm going to try and start doing this every week to help me remember the every day things.

*For today January 6, 2009*

Outside my window...
The snow is melting and the streets are slushy. The tarp over our dogs kennel was supporting a huge 30 pound block of ice. Bye, bye snow.

I am thinking...
About all that I need to accomplish this week and some fun things that I can do with Morgan today to keep him entertained. What to make for dinner?

I am thankful for...
My little family and our warm little home. This morning while Kendle was eating breakfast I wrapped myself up in a blanket, turned the fire place on, and felt really grateful to have those comforts.

From the kitchen...
I smell the lingering scents of breakfast and yesterdays homemade bread that is tempting me on the counter. I see mail that needs to be sorted and school work that needs to be filed or thrown away. In our fruit bowl some bananas are ripening and I'll have to make some banana bread with them before too long. The sink is empty with no dishes. Yay!

I am wearing...
Workout clothes. Grey athletic pants, a red and white Adidas top, and my Nike's. My hair's in a ponytail like usual.

I am creating...
Plans to redo a couple of rooms in my house. Kendle wants to repaint her room and do it more "girly" she says. She loves Paris for some reason, so I found some pictures of the Eiffel Tower and some other cute things, just need to get that ball rolling.

I am going...
To get on the treadmill and break a sweat and hopefully do some free weights after that. Also, throw in a couple of loads of laundry later. Tonight I'll be attending a Stake leadership meeting at the church.

I am reading...
I just finished "World Without End" by Ken Follet, and last night I started the Alex Hawke series by Ted Bell. I bought the whole series for Riley for Christmas, but I was also buying them because I wanted to read them as well (he, he). They are very James Bond meets Jason Bourne but a lot more exciting.

I am hoping...
That Morgan takes a good nap today. He is nearing the age where the naps start to get shorter and shorter and I really need those few quiet hours.

I am hearing...
The drip, drip of snow melting and a few cars driving past with a swish through the slush on the road. Morgan is asking for more raisins - "mooooooorrreeee, tank choo".

Around the house...
There are a few toys strewn about the living room, some socks, the newspaper is still by the front door, and I see a little toy person's head peeking out from underneath the piano. I feel like I've been doing pretty good making sure the kitchen is pretty clean before I go to bed at night. It makes everything so much easier in the morning. Ditto on packing Kendle's lunches. If I'm feeling really industrious, I make all of her sandwiches for the week and put them in the freezer until I need them each morning.

One of my favorite things...
Riley bought me some new pajama pants for Christmas and they are the most comfortable, cozy, cute things ever. Usually I have a hard time finding pants that are long enough for my legs - I hate wearing pajama pants that come up to my ankles. These ones are the perfect fit.

A few plans for the rest of the week:
Getting back in the regular school routine, attending a primary meeting, continuing to work out everyday, do something fun with the kids, maybe go to a movie. Saturday attend a baptism, Sunday I have a baby shower for my sister-in-law after church and then a cub scout meeting after that. Busy, busy. Riley's boys start indoor soccer this week so he'll be gone Wednesday night at 8:30. One thing I really need to do this week is take a big load of stuff to Goodwill.

That's all for today!