New Arrivals!

Last night we had 5 special arrivals in our home. New additions to our family, atleast for the next 6 weeks. Maggie, our lab/border colie dog had puppies! I kind of had my suspicions that she was going to have them yesterday because of the way she was acting. She couldn't get comfortable and she just didn't seem herself. After having friends over to watch Survivor & play cards, I asked Tyler to bring Maggie into the garage. I didn't' want her to have her babies outside in her dog house. So he went out there to bring her inside, and sure enough she had her puppies! There were 5 adorable baby puppies. There was a white one, 1 brown one and 3 black ones. They are SO CUTE! After moving them all into the garage and making sure Maggie was comfortable we headed back inside for bed. We were so excited to tell Tyson in the morning that Maggie finally had her puppies, we knew he would be thrilled! In the morning Tyler had the video camera ready to get Tyson's first reaction to seeing the puppies. Sure enough he came back in with a big smile on his face and said, "Maggie had her puppies, now she is a mom!" How cute is that! Then we asked him how many puppies there were and he began to count, 1 2 3 4 5 6! 7! WHAT she had 2 more in the night. Holy Cow, 7 puppies, that is quite the bunch. In addition to the 5 mentioned above, she added another white, and black puppy to the litter. Now they are all settled and Maggie is a very good 1st time mother. Tyson was happy to call his grandparents and tell them his exciting news. He also said another thing while speaking to my dad, he said, "Maggie is a mom now, but who is going to be the dad?" Kid, they think of everything don't they. Tyson was ecstatic to go to pre-school and tell all his friends about his new arrivals. It was great to see the excitement on his

face, and also see the other kids happiness when he told them. There is just something about new born puppies or kittens that

attracts kids. After pre-school today some of the kids came over to see the new puppies. Tyson was so proud of them. He already

has a favorite, the brown one. He doesn't' have a name for him

yet, but I'm sure he will before too long. Even Carson is intrigue by these new creatures that make so much noise. Of course he doesn't understand the concept of being gentle yet, so we have to watch him very carefully when he holds a puppy. I love

this picture of him giving the puppy a kiss. AWWWW! It will be fun to have these new babies around for awhile. Tyson will love them! It will be sad to have to give them away which we know will have to happen. But for now, we can enjoy them, love them, and take care of them.

Favorite Things About...

There is this blog that I read, as well as get ideas from a friends blog, and it is titled 10 on Tuesday. So I jumped ahead and decided to do next weeks topic. It is "10 Favorite Things About SPRING!"

1. Easter! I love reflecting on the ultimate sacrifice my Savior paid for me, as well as all mankind. That because of his great love for us he paid for all our sins, although he was a perfect man, and lived a perfect life, and was and still is the perfect example to us. He sacrificed his life so that one day we may return and live with him again.
2. Seeing the first signs of tulips and daffodils poke their heads through the ground after a long winters nap.
3. Spring showers.
4. Easter candy & chocolate. Especially Mini Eggs. YUMMY!
5. Baby animals on Tyler's parents ranch. There is just something about holding a baby chicken, or feeding a baby goat that I look forward to and love each spring!
6. Dying Easter Eggs. I have been doing this with Tyson the past couple of years and he LOVES it! Can't wait to do it again in the next week or two.
7. Getting out in my yard and doing spring clean up.
8. Finally being nice enough to go out for a walk or a bike ride. The LONG winter is hard on the kids being cooped up without any fresh air.
9. BBQing
10. Planting sweet peas, and other flowers in my yard.

I guess from this list of favorite things you can see I like Easter a lot! I have never really thought about it, but I guess I really do like this holiday. I get excited when I go into Walmart and all the Easter candy is out, and all the other fun Easter knick knacks are on display. I have to admit that I have already boughten my kids Easter presents. They had the cutest baskets at Walmart, and I caved and bought one, although I already have one for Tyson, you can't have too many Easter baskets can you? LOL!

I guess I am going to post about 10 Things That People Do That Annoy Me, (this weeks topic).

1. Leave there cell phone on in a movie.
2. When people take their baby to a movie and won't leave the theater if the baby starts to fuss.
3. Swearing. I remember going to a movie quite a few years ago and there were some people sitting behind Tyler and I and one guy was using the "f"word after every word. I was fuming! Finally I couldn't take it any longer and turned around and politely asked him to stop using that kind of language. He quickly apologized and didn't use profanity any more. I could elaborate more on this subject...but I won't...I just don't think that using profanity is an appealing characteristic for anyone. I'm not 100% perfect, but I try to watch what I say. I need to do this more, because I catch Tyson repeating things that I have said. In fact the other day I said to him, "Tyson come out side with mom, I have a job for you to do. You can help me pick up all the pinecones in the front yard." He replied by saying, "That is a crap job! I don't want to pick up the pinecones." WOW did that open my ears. We have to be ever so careful with what we say, we never know who might be listening and who might repeat it!
4. Drive SLOW in the FAST lane, or don't go the speed limit.
5. People who don't signal when they are turning.
6. People who answer their cell phone and hold a conversation when you are in the middle of something. (I have to admit that my DH does this...and it BUGS me SO BAD!) Probably the 1 thing we argue about the most.
7. Compulsive liars. People who lie and don't even know they are because they do it all the time! There is NO good time to lie, at least that is what I have found in my experience.
8. People who are pessimistic about everything and everyone.
9. When people can't put something back where it belongs, and then they ask you where it is.
10. People who don't hold doors open. This bugs the heck out of me. What happened to people's manners?

One more thing to mention...sorry I know this has been LONG! Yesterday my sister and I enjoyed a beautiful day taking the kids to the park for a picnic and then on a bike ride. While at the park I heard Tyson saying, "I have to go pee!" Then I turned around and he had his pants around his ankles and was attempting to "do his business." I quickly stopped him...before he got started and pulled him away and closer to a bush when he was a little more inconspicuous. BOYS! This was the first time he has ever done that...and I didn't teach him HOW to do that. Then....in the afternoon we went across the street to try and fly a kite, there wasn't a breath of wind. But we tried anyway. We were all at the bottom of the hill and Tyson was standing on top of the hill. I turn around and look at him and what do I see? His pants around his ankles again...and he is peeing! Then he tries to run down the hill with his pants around his ankles and his little bare butt mooning everyone! When he reaches me he said, "I went pee." We all had a good laugh over my little exhibitionist! In a way it is nice to have boys for this reason...it is very convenient when they HAVE to go. But on the other hand...you never know WHEN they are going to go, of WHERE! LOL!

Star Light...Star Bright...

As we drove home late last night from visiting family, I looked up at the most brilliant night sky I have seen in a long time. I have often taken for granted the beauty of the world I live in. Last night though, I marveled at those beautiful stars shining so brightly in the sky, a million miles away. I noticed the big dipper and wondered how many others were seeing the same thing I was. I began to think how blessed I was to be able to see this awesome sight. With nothing but night sky that stretched for miles and miles, as far as the eye could see. I thought how others around the world were not as lucky because they wouldn't be able to enjoy this beauty as I was. There night sky was filled with towering skyscrapers, street lights, and pollution. Some would think that I was the unlucky one because I live in a place where there isn't all that hustle and bustle. But for me, to live on the wide open prairie of Southern Alberta is what beauty is to me. For my children to be able to look up and wish on a star like I have done so many times in the past. For them to be able to drive on a highway where they may not see a city or town for miles, where they can run free in an open field of wheat, where they can ride a horse with nothing but wind blowing through their hair. That is where I find beauty, and peace. The saying really is true, that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. So whether you view the night sky from a 50th floor window, or driving on a lone highway going through the wide open prairie, there really is beauty in all things! It is all in the way we look at things.

A Resurrection...& Puppies!

From my previous post you would have know that we had a death in our family. Tyler's PDA was dropped in a tub FULL of water and wouldn't turn on, thus it suffered a tragic loss! Well last night we had a resurrection in our house! The PDA came back to life. Tyler was totally dumbfounded, and couldn't believe it when he put the battery back in and the thing lite up. He was ecstatic, and so was I cause now I don't have to fork over the money for a new one. It is great to see a smile back on my husbands face. Now I HOPE he learned his lesson, and realizes that little hands will find anything, and will put it anywhere!

Tyson had is skating carnival on Saturday night, and I was SO proud of him! I was smiling from ear to ear as my little Coal Miner skated on the ice, swinging his pick axe as he went. I can't believe how far the little guy has come. The first time we put on his hockey skates there was many a tear shed to get him to where he is now. Finally persistence and determination paid off! He enjoys skating now, and we love to go as a family.

Our dog Maggie is going to be a mother. We just found out or realized that she is very heavy laden with puppies this morning. Why we never noticed it before is beyond me. I guess I don't really pay attention to the dog anymore now that we have kids, and she is an outside dog. She has become Tyler's companion at work, he takes her most days. Today he came out and said "Jodi come and look at the dog, I think she is pregnant." Sure enough she is! She is huge, and her boobs (as Tyler called them) are huge and engorged. So it will probably only be a few days and we will have little puppies running all over. (insert eyes rolling here.) It will be fun, don't get me wrong, I love new puppies, and my boys will love them too. So now I am just trying to think of the perfect place for her to deliver. I think the garage is our best bet. I will be sure and take pictures of the little ones once the arrive.

Spring is definitely in the air in Southern Alberta. The weather is warming up, and I noticed today that my tulips are starting to peak their heads out of the ground. Here are some pictures of the kids at the park the other day. I love this picture of Carson discovering the pea gravel. He wouldn't STOP putting it in his mouth. Needless to say...we found some of those rocks later when we changed his diaper!

We bought a new BBQ today and I can't wait to use it! Tomorrow is the day, and I have the steaks ready to eat, along with yummy herbed potatoes. YUM! I am hoping tomorrow will be nice enough to get some yard work done. Our yard is in a shambles. Tyson is also dying to try out his new spider man kite that he got for doing so well in his skating carnival. Hopefully there will be a slight breeze tomorrow, but not a gale force wind that Southern Alberta is famous for!

On a sad note, my grandma had a minor stroke this afternoon. It came as a complete shock and it has had me very worried ever since. Apparently she is doing not too bad, and only has a minor ailment from it. She isn't paralyzed on one side, and is able to understand, speak, and stand with a bit of help. She isn't able to focus with her eyes very well, but the Dr.'s are hopefully that she will be able to recover quickly from it. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers.

A Death In The Family...

Today we had a tragic loss in our family! Today in the early morning TH55 was the victim of a tragic drowning accident. The suspect, is a 14 month old adorable baby boy, who claims he didn't know what he was doing. The witness, a 3 1/2 year old boy, claims that the suspect dropped TH55 from high above the ground, where he plunged to his death in a tub full of water. The owner of TH55 had his back turned for only a moment, and in the blink of an eye his best friend suffered a tragic death. Funeral services are scheduled for later this evening. Our condolences go out to Tyler, our prayers are with him as he goes through this terrible loss!

Now those of you who have read the above are probably wondering, "What the heck is she talking about?" Well let me explain it to you. Ever since I have know Tyler he has been a "write it down" type of person. First he had "Mr.Book," a day planner he took EVERYWHERE! He wrote absolutely everything down. It was his constant companion until I came along, and even then I had to compete. LOL! A few years ago we had our garage broken into and Mr. Book was stolen. Before hand Tyler had been thinking about getting a PDA, but was still skeptical, and wondered if it would do what he wanted it to do. So after Mr. Book was stolen I bought him a PDA for Christmas, and gave it to him early, because he was going to go out and buy a replacement for Mr. Book. Anyway that one lasted quite awhile. To make a LONG story short...we have been through 3 more PDA's. The last one got dropped in the toilet, and that was another death in the family. I swore I wouldn't buy another expensive one because he had gone through so many. Well I caved and bought him the exact model he wanted for Christmas. He was SO happy. I told him it had to last 3 years, so treat it like gold. Well this morning his luck and out when he left if on the night stand and Carson got a hold of it and dropped it in the tub! Oh man the look on poor Tyler's face. It was so devastating. I felt so bad for the guy, he was almost in tears. But he handled it very well, and said that it wasn't the end of the world, and he would have to use the old...old one. But I know that he was really upset about it. So yes we suffered another tragic death in our family.

Then to top ALL that off...Tyler came home from work and told me that his partner at work is quitting. Tyler likes him so much and they really get along, but they guy can't handle the crazy schedule and the unpredictability of it. So it has been a rough day for my man. He needs some extra hugs and kisses today. We did manage to get over to play some cards with friends tonight and that seemed to bright his spirits up a bit. Tomorrow is a new day, and things will seem much better. And who knows maybe the PDA fairly will be able to find another one on EBAY. I'm sure that would put the smile back on her husbands face!

10 Things I Worry About...

This was posted on another blog I visit, and I thought I would post my 8 Things I Worry About (I couldn't think of 10 & these are in no particular order.)

1. The Health of my family. My family is all very healthy (the 4 of us), and so is my extended family, but I worry that we won't stay that way. My grandmother had breast cancer in the 70's and I worry that I will also get it. I worry about Tyler's health because he is SO healthy and in the back of my mind I have the fear that he might not always stay that way. He WILL NOT go to the Dr. for a check up because he thinks there is nothing wrong, but I keep telling him that prevention is better! I am beginning to think that it is a "man thing", not to want to go to the dr. My kids are also healthy, but with Carson's past issues, I just hope and pray they they both will continue to thrive, grow, and develop they way they should.
2. The safety of my children. Will all the evil there is in our world, I constantly worry about what my boys are being exposed to. I am already starting to dread when they will go to school. They won't be protected and sheltered for everything that is "out" there as much as they have been being under my watchful eye every minute of the day.
3. Natural Disasters. It seems that in the last few years there have been so many more natural disasters. It scares me to death! I know we aren't well enough prepared if something were to happen here. I worry for all those people effected by these disasters. I wish there was more I could do for them.
4. Money. We are almost out of debt, (excluding our house payments) and it has been a long hard road. I worry that we will get our selves into trouble again.
5. Identity Theft. It seems more and more people are becoming a victim to this crime, and I fear that maybe one day it might happen to me. I buy a lot online, and my personal info it probably out in cyberspace. Also we aren't very careful with out documents, and are careless to just throw things away in the trash. We need to get a paper shredder, maybe that would take away some of my fear.
6. Changing Careers. Tyler is happy and content with his job now, but in the back of my mind I often wonder and worry how long he will stay that way. He is at the top of the ladder with this company and there is no room for growth, so I wonder what happens when he gets sick of it.
7. Morals and Values. I worry so much about how the worlds morals and values are slowly decreasing. We see it everyday, from advertising, to the music and t.v. we listen to. What happened to those good old days when you didn't have to worry about what your children saw on television, or what they would hear on the radio. It seems that no one stands up for what they believe in, and we all just conform to and accept what is going on around us. Sure one small voice may not make a difference but many sure would!
8. Friends. I worry about the friends my children are going to have. With Tyson only a few months away from going to pre-school, I am finding myself worrying more and more about the types of friends he is going to make. Friends are so very important in a child's life, especially when they become a teenager. Friends can either build you up and make you be a better person, or they can lead you to do things you know aren't right, but through peer pressure they get you to do them. Maybe it won't be so bad with boys though, they won't be competing with each other over the name brand clothes, boyfriends, and all the petty things girls fight over. I guess only time will tell.

Now that seemed to me kind of depressing when I actually thought about what worries me. So on a lighter note I thought I would post some things that I'm NOT worried about.

1. What happens when we die. I have the calming assurance that death is NOT the end for us when we die. And that we will be reunited with loves ones who have died before us. Also that our families can be together forever. What a comfort that is to me!
2. The LOVE my husband has for me. I know that with every fiber of his being that Tyler loves me. That he would do anything within his capabilities to make me happy.
3. SUPPORT. I know with all my heart that my family supports me in every decision that I make that supports things that are righteous and good.
4. FRIENDS. I know that I may not have an abundance of "close" friends, but the ones I do have genuinely care about me and my families well being.
5. FREEDOM. I am not worried that my freedoms will be taken away from me. I am so happy and thankful to live in a country where people are free to choose. Freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and freedom to act for ourselves.
6. POVERTY. I am thankful that I don't have to worry about where my next meal will come from, when the next clean glass of water to drink will come from, and worry about if my children are going to starve. My heart goes out to ALL of those who have this constant worry!
11. I will leave you with a LO I did a few days ago. Here is Tyson, once again EXPLORING & being ADVENTUROUS!

Printer Jam...Not For The Weak!

I received an email from a friend and attached were these pictures! It gave me the willies SO bad! Sent shivers up my spine! I HATE mice, always have, always will. There is just something about a creature that can move SO fast, and fit into anywhere! I hope this NEVER happens to you or I! I feel so bad for the person who discovered this... they are probably scared for life! LOL!

You Know It Is SPRING When...

Tyler's mom and dad live on a ranch just west of Leavitt, AB. He was born and raised there. It is such a great place, it is your typical farm, complete with all the animals you would expect to find on a ranch. Ever since Tyler and I have been married, I have looked forward to spring on the ranch because there is always new baby animals. Yesterday when we went for a visit there were so many new babies. Baby chickens, baby budgie's, baby puppies, bunnies, and goats. Not to mention all other animals, horses and ponies, dogs, and cats. It is such a fun place for the grandkids. Tyson had SO much fun holding all the new babies. I think his favorite was the adorable lop eared grey bunny that he wanted to name "Jack in the box." Where he came up with that name I have no idea! LOL! I was kicking myself for not having my camera! Tyson was so adorable while trying to hold the squirmy baby chicken. He eventually found the "perfect" way to hold the baby. He kept telling me that he was being gentle. He wanted so badly to go to the barn and see the baby goats, but the weather was too cold and nasty to venture down to the barn. So we will have to go back soon and do that, and this time I will bring my camera!

Tyson is having a sleepover at my parents house for the next 2 nights. He was so excited to go! he was helping me pack his little bag, and wanted to bring practically everything in his room! He was way to funny! My dad is SO happy to finally have some little boys to teach everything too. He can't wait till the summer when he can take Tyson fishing, and camping. Next year he will be taking 3 boys with him, Carson and Hunter will be big enough to go by then. So he is going to have his hands FULL, but he has waited a long time to spend some time with little boys, so I know he is more than happy and excited to spend time with his grandsons.

I had a GREAT idea! I am going to have a Easter party for Tyson and ALL of his friends. Friends from play school, and friends from church. The fun thing about the party is that my mother in law is going to bring her baby animals! So were are going to have a petting zoo, and an Easter egg hunt at the park. I think I am more excited than all the kids will be. I LOVE planning parties, all you have to do is give me an excuse to have one. So for the next 2 weeks I will be planning "Tyson's Easter Party." I'm sure it will be a BLAST, now all I have to do is pray for good weather!

Better Left Unsaid...

Sometimes in life there are things we say that would have been better to have left them UNSAID! I can't count how many times I have had situations like this. I find myself on a daily basis thinking, "Why on earth did I say that?" And of course it is always AFTER I have said it. I remember my mother telling me as a child that "If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all!" Why is this concept so hard for me to implement in my daily life? I find myself saying things to Tyler, my children, family members, and friends things that I know I am going to regret, but I say them anyway without thinking first. I have always admired people who choose their words carefully. My husband is very much that way. I can honestly say that he has never spoken an unkind word towards me, or said things that he has regretted. He is that way with everyone, and I admire that quality in him.

Then there are the times when OTHERS have said things that we wish they would have left UNSAID. We are so quick to get offended and let our feelings be hurt. I had one of those experiences today. I guess I was both on the receiving end and also on the giving end of things that I wish weren't said, and things that I wish I wouldn't have said. Needless to say both parties left the situation with hurt feelings and flames coming out of their ears. I wish I could have avoided this situation and handled it better! I find that my emotions get the best of me and I don't stop and think before opening my mouth. A bad trait that has gotten me into trouble more than once.

Then comes the process of forgiveness and letting it GO. Will it really matter tomorrow? Will it bring hurt feelings that really don't need to be there? In my situation it was over reacting on both parties. Looking back on it, it really was so stupid! So after a couple of hours when we had both had time to cool off, it was time to say, "I'm sorry." Things are fine now, and back to normal now., but wouldn't it have been better to have avoided the situation all together? YES it would have. So that is my goal for the coming week, THINK BEFORE I SPEAK! I found this cute poem and I think it sums it up pretty good.

“Before you speak, listen.

Before you write, think.

Before you spend, earn.

Before you invest, investigate.

Before you criticize, wait.

Before you pray, forgive.

Before you quit, try.

Before you retire, save.

Before you die, give.”

Tuckered Out...

Have you ever been so deliriously tired, where nothing, not even a thunder storm, earthquake, or 100 km/hour winds will wake you? This was the case with Tyson (picture on the left). He played SO hard that beautiful summer day that when it was time for supper he climbed on top of the picnic table and fell asleep. We tried and tired, but to no avail we could NOT wake him. We tried bribing him with his favorite "sour" pop, asked him if he wanted candy, but still nothing, no response. Tyler even tried to tease him by telling him that there was a bee close to him. The bees were SO horrible and Tyson and Tyler were both unfortunate and were stung. But even THAT didn't stir this sleeping child. As I scrapbooked this LO over the past 2 days...yes 2 days, (I know it isn't anything fancy, but I just couldn't get it to look right), I thought about times in my life where I have been so exhausted. There were many long nights while I stayed up studying for a test to get my Dental Assistants Certificate. Also many times I was exhausted from staying up all night hanging out with roommates, and then waking early to go to class. Then came the long nights while Tyler and I were dating. It didn't seem to bother us to stay up to 3 and 4 a.m. just to be together, and then wake up and go to work only a few short hours later. Those were the "good old days," when we were falling in love, and everyday was exciting. We would sacrifice anything to spend one more minute together. For me back then, being exhausted and tired all the time was worth it, and plus I was younger and my body adjusted to the lack of sleep. Then came marriage, which was and still is GREAT! Every day was a new day, finding out about each other, adjusting to being together all the time and learning each others quirks. There were many exhausting nights staying up talking, watching t.v. or going out with friends and family. Then there was work to add to all the "wifely" duties, and that took some getting used too. Then babies came along, and I finally got a clearer and more defined picture of what true delirious exhaustion was! Late nights, early morning, NO sleep for days on end, crying babies, sick babies, and babies who think that during the day they should sleep and at night they should be awake. But it was and still is SO worth it. I wouldn't trade in all of my lost sleep for anything. Those late nights spent rocking a crying baby are precious moments. Now my 1st baby isn't a baby anymore, and there aren't many moments when I can rock him like I did when he was little. I'm sure there will be many more nights where exhaustion will set in because of staying up late to fix the perfect snack for pre-school, or getting the perfect Halloween costume finished, or helping a child with a school project. I'm sure I will loose plenty of sleep because of worry for my children, and waiting up for them. But how important is sleep, or lack of when you are loosing it for a greater cause? Isn't there always another day when you can play catch up? My favorite day to catch up on much needed rest is Sunday. What a better day could there be to just relax? After spending the morning in worship, then to come home and contemplate how you have been uplifted by a Sunday service, then to have the whole family enjoy a peaceful, sleep filled afternoon. There is nothing better than laying on the couch with the sunshine coming in through the window while enjoying a peaceful, tranquil moment of sleep. It is in that moment, that makes the lack of sleep, and utter exhaustion WORTH IT!

A Wealth Of Information...

I have began to collect all of the information needed for my Big Picture Scrapbooking class and I have been so engrossed in all of the family history that has been done for my family. I am SO excited for this class, and excited for the upcoming weekly challenge. The 1st week we were to collect all the info we wanted to include. I contacted both of my grandma's because I knew they would have the info I was looking for. My grandma Heninger (my mother's mom) has been very diligent in keeping very accurate records of her parents as well as my grandfather's parents. She has compiled binders FULL of info. A complete life history for them. I am so thankful for her dedication to this daunting task. It is hard for me to even comprehend the amount of time she has taken to compile these treasured memories and records. As I have been going through these binders, reading stories of my great grandparents I am truly amazed at their faith, perseverance , and dedication to church, family and community. These truly are treasures for our family. I had such a fun time filling out my family pedigree chart, finding birth dates, wedding dates, and death dates of long ago ancestors.

This is a picture of my Grandpa & Grandma Heninger ( my mother's parents.) I am so happy and excited to create this creative genealogy lunch pail kit to pass on to my children. I hope they will enjoy learning about their ancestors as much as I have been.

We all have roots, we all have ancestors who have come and gone before us. We are where we are and WHO we are because of their struggles, hardships, triumphs, and sacrifices. Many of our family members were pioneers, traveling to a world unknown to them. They had a vision of a better life, of wealth, and happiness. They pushed their fears aside and ventured off into the unknown. They paved the way so that now we are living free, and happy lives. Some of our ancestors didn't have to travel far to get to a place they would call home, but none the less they endured trials and fought many battles for our freedoms. Where would I be if it weren't for the hardships and sacrifices of those in my family who came before me? Would I be the person I am today? I think the answer to this question would be NO. I was reared and raised in a family whose values, morals, and integrity were rooted long before I was born on this earth. How thankful I am to those who came before me, and made my life so much easier than they had it. How thankful I am for their trials, so that now I don't have to struggle as they did. How thankful I am that FAMILY is FOREVER!

Marbles...

Every Sunday I have the wonderful opportunity to share some beautiful music with the women of Relief Society at church. I look forward to it every week. The purpose of this little task is to set the mood for the rest of the meeting. I try to find an uplifting message, quote, or thought and share it with the ladies, and then play my selected piece of music. Last night as I was laying in bed quietly chastising myself for ALL the many, many things I don't do, but should be doing, I began to feel so overwhelmed and wondered how on earth I was going to "be" so many things and feel like I am making a difference. Does that make any sense? I guess my biggest problem is time management. I feel so guilty for not spending more time with my children, because "other" things get in the way. Or I don't make them MORE of a priority. They are only young and innocent for such a short period of time. Couldn't that scrapbook page be put off until they go to bed? Couldn't I limit the time Tyson spends watching t.v. and on the computer and actually get down on the floor and play with him. Okay...here come those guilty feelings again! I have to STOP! The point is this, as I was preparing for music appreciation, I came across this story and boy oh boy did it get me thinking! I had to share it with more people, so here it is on my blog. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. I hope it gets you thinking like it did me!

Marbles

A few weeks ago, I was shuffling toward my basement ham radio shack. What began as a typical Saturday morning, turned into one of those lessons that life seems to hand you from time to time.

Let me tell you about it. I turned the dial up into the phone portion of the band on my ham radio in order to listen to a Saturday morning swap net. Along the way, I came across an older sounding chap, with a tremendous signal and a golden voice. You know the kind, he sounded like he should be in the broadcasting business. He was telling whoever he was talking with something about "a thousand marbles". I was intrigued and stopped to listen to what he had to say.

"Well, Tom, it sure sounds like you're busy with your job. I'm sure they pay you well, but it's a shame you have to be away from home and your family so much. Hard to believe a young fellow should have to work sixty or seventy hours a week to make ends meet. Too bad you missed your daughter's dance recital." He continued, "Let me tell you something Tom, something that has helped me keep a good perspective on my own priorities."

And that's when he began to explain his theory of a "thousand marbles." "You see, I sat down one day and did a little arithmetic. The average person lives about seventy-five years. I know, some live more and some live less, but on average, folks live about seventy-five years. Now then, I multiplied 75 times 52 and I came up with 3900 which is the number of Saturdays that the average person has in their entire lifetime."

"Now stick with me Tom, I'm getting to the important part. It took me until I was fifty-five years old to think about all this in any detail", he went on, "and by that time I had lived through over twenty-eight hundred Saturdays. I got to thinking that if I lived to be seventy-five, I only had about a thousand of them left to enjoy."

"So I went to a toy store and bought every single marble they had. I ended up having to visit three toy stores to round-up 1000 marbles. I took them home and put them inside of a large, clear plastic container right here in the shack next to my gear."

"Every Saturday since then, I have taken one marble out and thrown it away. I found that by watching the marbles diminish, I focused more on the really important things in life. There is nothing like watching your time here on this earth run out to help get your priorities straight."
"Now let me tell you one last thing before I sign-off with you and take my lovely wife out for breakfast. This morning, I took the very last marble out of the container. I figure if I make it until next Saturday then I have been given a little extra time. And the one thing we can all use is a little more time." "It was nice to meet you Tom, I hope you spend more time with your family, and I hope to meet you again."

You could have heard a pin drop on the radio when this fellow signed off. I guess he gave us all a lot to think about. I had planned to work on the antenna that morning, and then I was going to meet up with a few hams to work on the next club newsletter. Instead, I went upstairs and woke my wife up with a kiss. "C'mon honey, I'm taking you and the kids to breakfast."
"What brought this on?" she asked with a smile. "Oh, nothing special, it's just been a long time since we spent a Saturday together with the kids. Hey, can we stop at a toy store while we're out? I need to buy some marbles."

How many marbles do YOU have left? I have 2444!! I plan on making each and everyone count. I hope you all have a GREAT Sunday :)

Have You Ever Been...

I got this really cute email from my sister today and I had to share it with ALL of you. I know there are lurkers here to my blog. And hey...that is JUST FINE. But why don't you comment every now and then. I would love to know who is stopping by to see what it going on in my little life.

Included in the email from my sister, was this question followed by these pictures. I thought they were SO funny, and the sure brought a smile to my face.

Have you ever been this tired?









and the BEST one is...

When Tyson is very tired, he will fall asleep anywhere. I can't count how many times he has fallen asleep in his high chair while eating. Or fallen asleep while jumping in his jolly jumper. He is like his dad, in that it doesn't take him long to fall asleep...and it doesn't really matter where he is.

Is SNAGEL a word? My sister and I were playing scrabble today and I used the word snagel. I swear it is a word. A word to describe really bad nasty teeth. I would use it in a sentence like this, " The witch was a snagle tooth." Can't you picture what the witch would look like. I was made that I left my mini dictionary in our travel trailer so I wasn't able to look it up and prove to my sister that it was a word...although I may have misspelled it. We ended up calling my mom, and she said it was a word. Anyway much to my sisters dismay she finally agreed to let me use it and I believe I scored quite a few points with it. Oh well if it isn't a word, at least I fooled her this time, I don't think she will let me get away with it again though.

It was a beautiful day today. We had blizzard yesterday afternoon and into the evening. We woke up to 12 inches of wet, heavy snow. I was so happy and thankful that Tyler was able to shovel before he went to work. Tiffany and I decided to take the 3 boys sledding. After spending a considerable amount of time bundling them all up we headed out. It was the perfect day. Tyson had so much fun playing in the snow..but more so eating it! The babies were happy to be outside enjoying the fresh air. We managed to get a few good pictures. Man it is SO hard to get 3 kids to co-operate at the same time for a picture!

These first 2 pictures are of my sisters little boy Hunter, who is 10 months old. Isn't he a cutie! This was his first taste of snow. I think he likes it!

Here is Tyson eating this HUGE snowball. He wouldn't put it down. By the time we went back in the house, this snowball was atleast 1/2 the size!

Here is little Carson. He wasn't as smiley as he usually is. I don't think he was impressed that he was sitting in the cold snow.

I love this picture of the babies together. They are the best of buds. They play and interact so well together. It will be so fun to watch the two of them grow up together. I hope they remain close!

Here is the best picture we got of all 3 of them. Like I said, very hard to get 3 very independent kids to co-operate all at the same time. Cute none the less.

10 Things You MUST Try...

I got this list of 10 on another blog, and it once again got me thinking. It was titled, "10 Things You MUST try." So here are my 10 things (in no particular order)...

1. GAIN laundry detergent. It leaves your clothes smelling SO good.
2. Alberto V05 Nourishing Oasis shampoo and conditioner. It is awesome. Gives lots of volume, and it smells delicious. The right scent to help you wake up in the morning.
3. Zataran's Jambalya (in a box). SO yummy and quick. And it has no trans fat. All you have to do is add chicken, sausage, and shrimp if you like, and you have a complete meal.
4. James Blunt "Back to Bedlam" CD. AWESOME is all I can say!! The man is truly gifted.
5. E-Z Runner by Scrapbook Adhesives. Goodbye blue tabs! This is a MUST have for any scrapbooker!
6. The new pop machines at 7-11. They are so darn cool. You can now add three flavors to your favorite pop. They have lemon, cherry, and vanilla. LOVE this feature, and must admit that I have become addicted. I have to have a diet coke with vanilla...nearly every day!
7. Eyelash curler. All the stars and celebrities use them...or so I have heard. It seem that whenever I see a makeover show they mention an eyelash curler. I used to use one ALL the time in High School, but haven't for years. Finally bought one, and I love it! Worth a try for only $2.99. You won't believe how much longer your eyelashes look, and it make your eyes look so much bigger.
8. The Body Shop - Aromatherapy Car Diffuser. A MUST for every car. You can take all your favorite home fragrance oils in your car with you. Tyler got me this for Christmas and I LOVE it! I am not a vanilla scent lover, but the Vanilla Spice scent is to die for! I think you can only get it at Christmas though.
9. A Massage. Everyone should get a professional massage. I had never had one until 8 years ago for Valentine's Day my DH (he was my boyfriend then) surprised me and took me for an 1 1/2 hour massage. I have been hooked ever since. Which reminds me...I NEED ONE! If you can I would recommend a HOT Stone massage. So heavenly!
10. Crocheting. It is so fun, and very theraputic! My grandma taught me when I was very little, and I love to do it to this day. My favorite thing to do is crochet around the edges of flannel receiving blanket for babies. In fact...I just bought fabric today to make 2 more for friends who just had babies. It is SO adorable, Strawberry Shortcake!

Wow there you have it...10 things you MUST try...or I think you should try. Can't hurt can it?

I was able to do a bit of scrapping tonight. I went to my LSS today and they had a ton of new product. It was so fun to check everything out. Totally loving the 3 Bugs In A Rug line. They also had the new Chatterbox cardstock in...very cool...very $$. Over $1 for a piece of paper...OUCH! I didn't buy any, but I did get some of there other new paper. I am planning on doing my All Boxed Up project with it. I think it is going to be SO CUTE! Can't wait to get started.

This is the new 3 Bugs paper. So fun, and great to use for boys! They also have CUTE paper for girls...how I wish I needed to buy paper for a girl. LOL. Anyway I am NOT happy with this picture...but hey I was grasping at straws as we didn't take many for Carson's birthday :( It totally sucks having a birthday right after Christmas. Poor little guy gets totally ripped off! I have decided that for next year I am going to celebrate it at the beginning of December. That way he won't get forgotten. I feel like such a terrible mother because I didn't take more time and make more effort for his birthday. Next year Carson, I promise to make it up to you!

Friendship Week...

I woke up this morning to a great email sent by a friend in celebration of National Friendship Week. So instead of forwarding it on to all my friends I thought I would post it here.

What Goes Around...Comes Around

His name was Fleming, and he was a poor Scottish farmer. One day, while trying to make a living for his family, he heard a cry for help coming from a nearby bog. He dropped his tools and ran to the bog. There, mired to his waist in black muck, was a terrified boy, screaming and struggling to free himself. Farmer Fleming saved the lad from what could have been a slow and terrifying death. The next day, a fancy carriage pulled up to the Scotsman's sparse surroundings An elegantly dressed nobleman stepped out and introduced himself as the father of the boy Farmer Fleming had saved. "I want to repay you," said the nobleman. "You saved my son's life." "No, I can't accept payment for what I did," the Scottish farmer replied waving off the offer. At that moment, the farmer's own son came to the door of the family hovel. Is that your son?" the nobleman asked. Yes," the farmer replied proudly. I'll make you a deal. Let me provide him with the level of education my own son will enjoy. If the lad is anything like his father, he'll no doubt grow to be a man we both will be proud of." And that he did. Farmer Fleming's son attended the very best schools and in time, graduated from St. Mary's Hospital Medical School in London, and went on to become known throughout the world as the noted Sir Alexander Fleming, the discoverer of Penicillin. Years afterward, the same nobleman's son who was saved from the bog was stricken with pneumonia. What saved his life this time? Penicillin. The name of the nobleman? Lord Randolph Churchill. His son's name? Sir Winston Churchill. Someone once said: What goes around comes around.

Work like you don't need the money.

Love like you've never been hurt.

Dance like nobody's watching.

Sing like nobody's listening.

Live like it's Heaven on Earth.

Thanks Cassidy for the story and for thinking of Me this week :)

A Vent...and Another Recipe...

My dishwasher has been on the fritz lately. MAN I hate hand washing dishes. I'm just too spoiled I guess. It hasn't been working for nearly 3 weeks now. I have had the repair guy come out, and he fixes something little, like banging on it, and then it will work. As soon as he leaves I load it up and to no avail it only works for 1 cycle! ARHHHHHHHHH!! I am so frustrated with it. 1st no water would fill, no the blades that spray the water won't turn. The repair shop is going to start to think I am looney when I call them AGAIN to say it isn't working. I just don't understand how one day it is working 100% and the next nothing. It is like it has a mind of its own. So tomorrow it is back to dish pan hands for me!

Philly Beef Stuffed Sandwich

1 c. green pepper, chopped

3/4 c. onions, thinly sliced

sliced mushrooms (optional)

2 cloves garlic, crushed

• Fry all the above ingredients in a frying pan and sautee until onions are carmalized, and peppers are tender.

2 pkgs Pillsbury pizza crust

8 oz. shaved deli roast beef ( I got mine at Cosco in the deli meat section and it is SO good)

1 tsp. oregano

Mozzarella cheese, grated

• Roll out the 2 pizza crusts together to make a large rectangle. Lay roast beef on top, and sprinkle with oregano.
• Spread fried vegetables over beef, and then top with cheese.
• Roll up like a jelly roll.
• Glaze with a beaten egg white and water. Bake on a cookie sheet at 400 for 20-25 min.
• Slice and serve.

SO DELICIOUS!! Even my husband liked it, and he is a very very picky eater.

Trying Something New...

I have been on kick lately where I have been trying a lot of new recipes. The other day I mentioned I was making bread pudding for snack at Parent Pre-school. Well it turned out FABO, so I thought I would share it.

You're Pudding Me On

Warm banana bread pudding with chocolate chips and pecans

10 to 12 large slices bread. Day old bread or buns works well too.

2 cups 2% milk

2 c. mashed ripe bananas

1 c. low-fat vanilla yogurt

4 whole eggs, lightly beaten

3/4 c. packed brown sugar

1 tsp each vanilla and cinnamon

3/4 c. chocolate chips

2/3 c. chopped pecans

• Break bread into 1 inch pieces and place in a 9x13 baking dish that has been sprayed with cooking spray. The dish should be full to over flowing with bread
• In a large bowl, whisk together milk, bananas, yogurt, egg, brown sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon. Pour mixture over bread. Using your hands mix bread cubes with milk mixture so that all pieces are coated. Let stand for 15 minutes while you preheat the oven to 350.
• Add chocolate chips and pecans to mixture just before baking. Reserve some and sprinkle them on top.
• Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, until pudding is puffed up and golden brown and center is set. Remove and let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Can be served with either ice cream, or whipping cream.

Random Thoughts For Today...

• Nothing too exciting happened today. Tyson was able to play his new computer games, and I was able to make 2 beaded necklaces and earrings to match. My sister and I were bored yesterday so she decided we needed to go to Michaels to get supplies to make a craft. You have to know my sister...she isn't that crafty. But sometimes she gets things in her head and there is NO stopping her. We actually found some really pretty beads, and came home and made our jewelry. It was really fun, and very time consuming. But I am very happy with the end result.
• We had fun at family skate this afternoon. Tyson and I played cat and mouse, and I can't believe HOW fast my little boy is getting. I know, I know...I have bragged enough about how proud I am of his new found love of ice skating. (insert smiling mother's face here!)
• I was able to scrapbook tonight. AHHH I love being creative. Love the outlet, and how relaxing it makes me. Here is the LO I did tonight. Once again inspired by Vicki!

After reading Sophia's blog this morning about how her and her DH are opposites, I could totally relate to her. My DH and I are very opposite as well. In fact, somedays I am still amazed at how we ended up together, and I count my blessings that we did, but to me it really is a miracle. You see Tyler is a total cowboy. Born (literally almost, another blog entry all in its own) on a ranch, and raised there all his life. His family income was earned by the horse training/selling business run by his dad. At a very early age Tyler was taught to ride even the most wild horses on the ranch. It was here that he learned the value of work, learned to LOVE country music, Wrangler Jeans, and of course cowboy boots. I on the other had was a "city" girl. Well I grew up in town. I didn't like to get dirty, I guess you could say I was (well still am) a girly girl. I was taught the value of work, but just not the gettin down and dirty kind. I would kick and scream when asked to help in the garden, I would rather be domestic in the house. In high school, when I began to notice the opposite sex, I was attracted to the "jocks" I guess. The football or basketball stars. Tall, blondes with blue eyes, preppie clothes, and daddies fancy vehicle. You know the guys I am talking about...good looks, but nothing much to speak of when it comes to brains. In college I dated the "jocks", and quickly found out that they weren't the guys I wanted for my life long companion. Not to say that all "jocks" are bad guys, cause they aren't, I just happened to date a few who were. When Tyler walked into the dental office where I worked after finishing college, I was totally attracted to him, Wrangler BUTT and all! And boy oh boy...did that BUTT look good! LOL!! I'm sure he wasn't expecting to fall in love with a girl who wore $100 jeans (can't and WON'T do that anymore), and listened to music whom he had never heard of. Can you believe that the longer Tyler and I dated...I started to convert to a country girl! I even surprise myself when I found myself asking my younger sister if I could wear her tight fitting Wrangler jeans, just to impress this boy who had stolen my heart. You may be wondering where all the info is going. Well I guess the bottom line is that "Opposites DO attract." There is nothing more simple than that. Look at yourself and your spouse, boyfriend, or significant other. Your opposites right? Tyler and I continue to be opposites, here are a few other things that make us opposite:

1. I am a Shop-o-holic! Tyler rarely buys anything for himself.
2. I LOVE tomatoes and cheese, Tyler can't STAND them!
3. I love trying new foods, I have to twist his arm to try something new.
4. Tyler would rather stay at home and watch a movie cuddled up in front of the fire, where as I would rather go out on the town.
5. I would LOVE to travel the world (well to hot places with beautiful beaches), and his idea of a holiday is pulling our trailer all over the country side searching for the perfect camp site. (Don't get me wrong, I do love camping too.)
6. I still love to rock out to an upbeat tempo type of music. Bring on Gwen or Madonna. Tyler STILL loves good old country, and I have to admit...I love it too, but every now and then I like to spice it up.
7. Tyler is a electronic freak! He has to carry is phone and palm pilot EVERYWHERE! Drives me totally bonkers. I on the other hand, don't have any electronic device glued to my hip.
8. Tyler is a very organized, list making type of person. I prefer to use my brain. Most times it works great and I hardly forget anything. But once in awhile it does let me down.
9. I love to cook, Tyler detests it. His idea of cooking is visiting the local Chinese food restaurant.
10. Tyler doesn't have any addictions (well me I guess. LOL!) but I do...chocolate!

I guess all of these "opposites" make Tyler and I the people we are. I know that I love everything about him, wranglers and all! I wouldn't change our opposites for anything, although if he did like tomatoes and cheese it would be easier for me to make supper. LOL!

• Thought I would share another font site for all you font freaks! THANKS Heather!
• I have fallen in love with the new Jack Johnson CD! You just gotta love this guy! And for all you country music lovers, you HAVE to get the new Brooks and Dunn CD. It is SO darn good, just like all their music is. Check out track #11 & #8. LOVE THEM!
• I have watched a few DVD's the past few days. "Proof", and "Walk the Line." Proof, well what can I say but "what the heck, that was stupid." It was good, and you think it just going to get better...and then...well you just have to watch it to know what I am talking about, I don't want to spoil it. "Walk the Line," was as good as everyone has been saying. I really liked it, and I just LOVE Reese Witherspoon, and she did a fabulous job. I hope she wins the Oscar. GO REESE!

WOW, this has be to be the LONGEST blog entry ever for me. Sorry so long. Lots to ramble on about I guess.

So Proud!

Many of you know that Tyson has been taking skating lessons...and it has been a bit of a battle. Well I am so pleased to announce that he is GETTING IT...and LIKING IT! The last 2 weeks have been a major improvement. He hasn't been crying for me to be on the ice with him, and he is actually spending more time skating around, than lying on the ice. He has wanted to be a free spirit though, and not stay and participate with his group. But I figured that as long as he is skating and NOT crying that was a big bonus and improvement. Today when he went (he now goes 2 times a week to prepare for the skating carnival at the end of the month,) I have a talk with him and told him that I wanted to him to practice staying with his group and listening to what the teacher was telling him. Because he would miss out on all the fun games if he didn't stay with the group. He was so darn proud when he got home to tell me that he was a GOOD boy, and that he stayed with his group. Man am I a proud mamma or what?? YES I AM! Tyler said that is has improved so much, and that is is one of the better skaters in his class. I gave Tyson a big hug and told him how proud I was. He was grinning from ear to ear.

I tried a new recipe tonight...and it was FABO! LOVED, LOVED, LOVED IT! I love spicy food, and this was just perfect. Just the right amount of heat. Here it is...for those of you who like it HOT!

I'm Dreaming of a White Chili

Creamy and delicious tomatoless chicken chili

Taken from "Eat, Shrink, and Be Merry."

2 tsp olive oil

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes

1 1/2 c. chopped onion

1 c. diced celery

2 tsp minced garlic

1 tbsp. chili powder

2 tsp. each ground cumin and dried oregano

1/2 tsp ground coriander

1/4 c. all-purpose flour

3 c. chicken broth

1 1/2c. milk

2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed

1 can chopped green chilies

salt and pepper to taste

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

2 tbsp minced fresh cilantro

shredded cheddar cheese

1. Heat olive oil in a large, non-stick soup pot over medium high heat. Add chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until no longer pink. Add onions, celery, and garlic. Cook and stir for 4 to 5 minutes, until vegetables begin to soften.
2. Add chili powder, cumin, oregano, and coriander to chicken. Mix well and cook for 1 minute. Add flour and stir until chicken is well coated. Stir in broth and milk. Bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes.
3. Add beans, green chilies, slat and pepper, cayenne pepper to chicken mixture. Reduce heat to medium low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove chili from heat. Add cilantro. Serve with grated cheese on top.

ENJOY!

Tomorrow I have parent pre-school, and Tyson looks forward to it ALL week. He loves it, and so do I. I get to mingle with other ladies, and have a mini break from the day to day schedule. Tomorrow though I have to take snack...and I am stressing! I don't know why, but I feel the pressure to produce some wonderful, healthy appealing snack for the kids. And not to mention the pressure I feel to make something extra fancy for all the other girls to enjoy. So...I am trying something new. Could turn out great...could be a disaster. I guess I will find out tomorrow. If it tures out, I will share the recipe.

Quickly did this LO tonight. It is a TOTAL scraplift from Vicki. She is such an AWESOME scrapbooker, and I get so much inspiration from her. THANKS Vicki, for creating such beautiful LO's that inspire me! The only thing I am not 100% happy with is how harsh the black looks. I didn't have a thin marker to use, and being the impatient person I am...I used a sharpie :( LOL!

10 Things...

After reading a post on a friends blog, it got me to thinking. She posted the question "What are 10 things you would want...but don't need?" So I thought I would answer the question.

1. A laptop computer (it would be SO nice to have 2 computers. That would = not fighting for the one we have. Seems everyone wants to use it at the same time.)
2. New digital camera (old one still works fine, but is really outdated.)
3. Van. Our car works fine, and is paid for, but the extra room would be really nice!
4. New laminate flooring in our kitchen and dining room.
5. Someone to come and "DEEP" clean my house. I consider myself to be a good housekeeper, but I don't "deep clean everything. Like walls...curtains, wash floors on hands and knees, ect. Man I shouldn't give away all of my bad cleaning habits! LOL!
6. Apple Ipod. I have 2 other MP3 players...that I don't like, but I still can't justify buying yet another! But if I could...I would!
7. I would LOVE to have the extra cash to go on a trip somewhere. Anywhere that is hot and sunny, where I could just lie on the beach and veg. all day long!
8. Toys for my kids. Yes I LOVE toys, and a child can never have too many... can they?
9. A new RV trailer. This really isn't a want because we have one that works 100% and is perfect for us..but it isn't new. If money was NO issue, then maybe I would consider buying an upgraded model.
10. I am really grasping at straws here...man I can't think of anything else.

It was a good scrapping day. I didn't get alot done, but then again I never do at one time. Here are 2 LO's from today.