I planted the beans.
I watered the beans.
I weeded the beans.
I picked the beans.
I cooked the beans.
I ate the beans.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Just call me, Little Red Hen...
I planted the beans.
I watered the beans.
I weeded the beans.
I picked the beans.
I cooked the beans.
I ate the beans.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Lots of swirling...
Lots of thoughts swirling around in this noggin of mine, but as I sit down to write, I am not quite sure what will come out. First off, today was a wonderful day at the beach. I love our Wednesday beach days! (Feel free to join us next week!) It was a beautiful day, even if it was a skosh warm. Between playing in the water, at the park, and in the sand, the kids did not seem to mind the heat. Today it was great having Wendy and Shelly to talk with as our kiddos played.
In talking to my friends, I was reminded how much God, our Father in Heaven, knows and loves each of us. There are so many things in life that do not go exactly to our plan and fit with our expectations, but Heavenly Father knows us and what we need. For me, I think He often has people come into my life that will help me along the way. When I think of all the times that I have felt so alone -- I mean really alone -- someone that I need helps me and makes me feel better. Time and again I find a friend that feels the same way or has had a similar experience and they often have words of wisdom to share. There is no way I think of that as coincidence. I know it is a loving Father who is helping me. He knows, better than I know myself, what I need and how I need to receive it. He answers prayers...even, and perhaps especially, the silent ones said in an aching heart. It is such a blessing to be reminded that I am known and loved by my Heavenly Father and my Savior.
In talking to my friends, I was reminded how much God, our Father in Heaven, knows and loves each of us. There are so many things in life that do not go exactly to our plan and fit with our expectations, but Heavenly Father knows us and what we need. For me, I think He often has people come into my life that will help me along the way. When I think of all the times that I have felt so alone -- I mean really alone -- someone that I need helps me and makes me feel better. Time and again I find a friend that feels the same way or has had a similar experience and they often have words of wisdom to share. There is no way I think of that as coincidence. I know it is a loving Father who is helping me. He knows, better than I know myself, what I need and how I need to receive it. He answers prayers...even, and perhaps especially, the silent ones said in an aching heart. It is such a blessing to be reminded that I am known and loved by my Heavenly Father and my Savior.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Surprise!
Last week we had a fantabulous time surprising Ken's mom, Suzanne, for a 60th birthday celebration. Aunt Blanche, Suzanne's sister, started organizing the get together last winter and she did such a great job and it was a total surprise.
Suzanne thought she was coming up to Denver for a visit, but Ken told a whopper to his mom saying that they come when they originally planned because our van had broken up in Cooke City and we had to wait to get it fixed. So then they "changed their plans" to meet Holly and Brian who just happened to be at a bike race in Pagosa Springs. They decided to meet for dinner and then caravan up to Denver. What Suzanne didn't know, is that our family and Blanche, her husband Jeff, and a few of the cousins were also waiting for her at the restaurant. It was great seeing her shocked reaction and trying to put the pieces of all the white lies together.
We had a wonderful three days there! It was absolutely beautiful! We visited chimney rock, did a chuckwagon dinner with sing-a-long, visited the wild animal park, took a 2 hour trail ride, mini, golf, and played games and talked. It was a wonderful reunion with family. Thanks to Aunt Blanche for organizing the shindig -- we had an incredible time!
Here are some pictures from the reunion. If you want to see more pictures, click here.
Suzanne thought she was coming up to Denver for a visit, but Ken told a whopper to his mom saying that they come when they originally planned because our van had broken up in Cooke City and we had to wait to get it fixed. So then they "changed their plans" to meet Holly and Brian who just happened to be at a bike race in Pagosa Springs. They decided to meet for dinner and then caravan up to Denver. What Suzanne didn't know, is that our family and Blanche, her husband Jeff, and a few of the cousins were also waiting for her at the restaurant. It was great seeing her shocked reaction and trying to put the pieces of all the white lies together.
We had a wonderful three days there! It was absolutely beautiful! We visited chimney rock, did a chuckwagon dinner with sing-a-long, visited the wild animal park, took a 2 hour trail ride, mini, golf, and played games and talked. It was a wonderful reunion with family. Thanks to Aunt Blanche for organizing the shindig -- we had an incredible time!
Here are some pictures from the reunion. If you want to see more pictures, click here.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Holy Crap!
I think that everyone knows I love the show So You Think You Can Dance. It is my favorite!!! I love that so many styles of dance are performed -- everything from Krumping to the Fox Trot. There is such a great variety. I really think the show is a great ambassador for dance. Just look at the level of talent that it attracts and especially the choreographers that are willing to be a part of it.
Tonight I was completely shocked by the results! Almost from the beginning of the season I thought Will would be in the finals and that he should win the competition. I don't know what America was thinking, but tonight Will was cut from the competition. I absolutely cannot believe it! Seriously at this point I am sad that any of the guys have to go home, but I really did not think it would be Will. In fact, even when he was announced as one of the bottom two, I thought he would be safe. Tonight, I think America got it wrong on SYTYCD. And that is what I have to say about that!
Thursday, July 17, 2008
The Cabin...
Out of the last 7 years we have gone up to the Debry cabin in Montana six times. It is one of our family traditions that we all look forward to. We always have a blast! This year was especially fun. We usually do a good balance of fun activities and relaxing. This year we (at least some of us) went fishing (good thing Rob was there to fish the kids out of the river!), hiking at Crazy Creek, playing in the mud, going off the rope swing, horseshoes, church, giving a concert for "the aunts", playing games, and of course, our day trip into Yellowstone. The boys even watched the kids so the girls could have lunch at the Beartooth Cafe -- oh the rum poppy seed cake!
Like every other year, we continued the tradition of playing Guesstures. And like, just about every other year, the girls skunked the boys! After being completely dominant in the first game, Mark decided we should do "double or nothing" for the lightning round. In this lightning round, our spouse would select the cards we would act out and set them up for us so that we would not see what was on the card until the timer started. Super fun! Again the girls rocked and we more the doubled the boys points. (I am pretty sure that is not what Mark meant by "double or nothing" --ha ha!)
We gave the chance for the boys to redeem themselves when we took them on in horseshoes. Ken brought up his horseshoes and the boys decided that would be this year's project: to make horseshoe pits. Despite the swarms of mosquitoes, we had a blast playing. In both games, the girls had the lead most of the time, with the boys coming from behind and squeaking out the win right at the end. Good thing, I think if we had skunked the boys at horseshoes too, they would never play another game with us. :) I see a new game tradition in the making and I even received my horseshoe nickname of "Carli Sliders" because of my impressive horseshoe throwing form. At least that is what they said...
The kids had a wonderful time playing with their friends! They got really dirty. What kid can resist a giant mud puddle? They loved playing out in the tree house and up in the loft. I am not quite sure when they slept because they were up late every night and up early every morning so they would not miss a moment of playing opportunity.
I too had a wonderful time playing with my friends. The Allreds and DeBrys became family to us during our years together in Colorado. It is so great to reconnect with them every year up at the cabin. Their friendship is so precious to us. We also love it when new families join us. This year the Wagners came up and it was great getting to know them better. (It also helps that Brenda is an awesome Guesstures player!) I love the time we get to spend together. Especially if that time is after we put the kids to bed and we are relaxing and talking on the best and most comfortable couch ever!
Now the countdown begins for next summer and when we can go up to the cabin again...
Like every other year, we continued the tradition of playing Guesstures. And like, just about every other year, the girls skunked the boys! After being completely dominant in the first game, Mark decided we should do "double or nothing" for the lightning round. In this lightning round, our spouse would select the cards we would act out and set them up for us so that we would not see what was on the card until the timer started. Super fun! Again the girls rocked and we more the doubled the boys points. (I am pretty sure that is not what Mark meant by "double or nothing" --ha ha!)
We gave the chance for the boys to redeem themselves when we took them on in horseshoes. Ken brought up his horseshoes and the boys decided that would be this year's project: to make horseshoe pits. Despite the swarms of mosquitoes, we had a blast playing. In both games, the girls had the lead most of the time, with the boys coming from behind and squeaking out the win right at the end. Good thing, I think if we had skunked the boys at horseshoes too, they would never play another game with us. :) I see a new game tradition in the making and I even received my horseshoe nickname of "Carli Sliders" because of my impressive horseshoe throwing form. At least that is what they said...
The kids had a wonderful time playing with their friends! They got really dirty. What kid can resist a giant mud puddle? They loved playing out in the tree house and up in the loft. I am not quite sure when they slept because they were up late every night and up early every morning so they would not miss a moment of playing opportunity.
I too had a wonderful time playing with my friends. The Allreds and DeBrys became family to us during our years together in Colorado. It is so great to reconnect with them every year up at the cabin. Their friendship is so precious to us. We also love it when new families join us. This year the Wagners came up and it was great getting to know them better. (It also helps that Brenda is an awesome Guesstures player!) I love the time we get to spend together. Especially if that time is after we put the kids to bed and we are relaxing and talking on the best and most comfortable couch ever!
Now the countdown begins for next summer and when we can go up to the cabin again...
Yellowstone
We just got back from our yearly trip to Montana. We had a fantastic time, as usual. This year the Wagner family from our ward joined us and the DeBry and Allred families. The Debry cabin in Cooke City is only a few miles out of Yellowstone, but we haven't gone there for several years. This year the Wagners wanted to visit the park, so we all decided to make a day of it.
We had an incredible time. We drove all over the park visiting Mammoth Hot Springs, Old Faithful, Tower Falls, and ate a picnic at Sheepeaters Cliffs. The views were spectacular and we were able to see a ton of animals. We saw antelope, buffalo, elk, deer, a bald eagle, and a mama bear with her cubs. It was especially cool to see the buffalo stampede down the hill, swim across the river, get out, and continue their stampede across the next meadow. Absolutely amazing! On the way back through Lamar Valley the light was so golden and made everything seem even more beautiful. Of course I couldn't help but take a gazillion photos. I uploaded a few into this slide show, but you can see more if you click here.
We had an incredible time. We drove all over the park visiting Mammoth Hot Springs, Old Faithful, Tower Falls, and ate a picnic at Sheepeaters Cliffs. The views were spectacular and we were able to see a ton of animals. We saw antelope, buffalo, elk, deer, a bald eagle, and a mama bear with her cubs. It was especially cool to see the buffalo stampede down the hill, swim across the river, get out, and continue their stampede across the next meadow. Absolutely amazing! On the way back through Lamar Valley the light was so golden and made everything seem even more beautiful. Of course I couldn't help but take a gazillion photos. I uploaded a few into this slide show, but you can see more if you click here.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Bearing fruit...
Our raspberry bushes in the backyard are finally starting to actually have raspberries on them! Who would have thunk?!? Last year we got, count it, ONE raspberry. I am starting to get excited for this year and -- if we can keep the birds away-- the raspberry freezer jam I could make!
Monday, July 7, 2008
Campin' with the Hansens 2008
This fourth of July weekend we went up to Rocky Mountain National Park for the 7th annual "Campin' with the Hansens." Every year we look forward to camping with some of our friends. We had a wonderful time (except for our air mattress going flat the first night -ugh!) and the weather was perfect. The kids loved getting dirty, especially Peyton and her black hands!
The next morning we enjoyed a nice walk up to Alluvial Fan and a wonderful picnic lunch in the park. After a little rest at the campsite we headed into Estes Park and found a spot near the high school for to watch the fireworks. We made sure to get a spot by the park (we were there a few hours before the show) and the kids played, played, played and played some more. Some of the adults enjoyed playing some Frisbee on the lawn while we waited. Estes Park put on a great fireworks display and we all enjoyed it. The last morning we always have a big breakfast with all the trimmings before we pack up to go home.
Every year we look forward to this annual tradition and we always have a blast with our friends. I especially love the part when we get the kids down for the night and all the adults get to talk around the fire. We are so grateful to Jen and Karl that organize the yearly camping expedition. You guys are awesome -- thanks for inviting us!
The next morning we enjoyed a nice walk up to Alluvial Fan and a wonderful picnic lunch in the park. After a little rest at the campsite we headed into Estes Park and found a spot near the high school for to watch the fireworks. We made sure to get a spot by the park (we were there a few hours before the show) and the kids played, played, played and played some more. Some of the adults enjoyed playing some Frisbee on the lawn while we waited. Estes Park put on a great fireworks display and we all enjoyed it. The last morning we always have a big breakfast with all the trimmings before we pack up to go home.
Every year we look forward to this annual tradition and we always have a blast with our friends. I especially love the part when we get the kids down for the night and all the adults get to talk around the fire. We are so grateful to Jen and Karl that organize the yearly camping expedition. You guys are awesome -- thanks for inviting us!
UPDATE: A new obsession...
Becky just sent me proof of this weekend's antisocial behavior to post on here. We were waiting for the fireworks display and the kids were very happily playing at the park. So I had a little time on my hands... :)
Sunday, July 6, 2008
A new obsession...
I put off starting to read the Twilight series because I knew I would get lost as I always seem to. That is one of the reasons that I love to read -- to lose myself, to become someone new, in a totally new world. While we were camping this weekend I finally started it. Sure enough, I could not put it down. Can you believe that Carli and the word "antisocial" were actually being used in the same sentence?!? I was so glad that Heather let me borrow the first two books. I finished Twilight last night and I just finished New Moon. Now I have got to get my hands on book three. I need to satisfy my thirst, if you know what I mean. Life could return to normal, ie. caring for my family, once I get caught up. :) I am pathetic. I have absolutely no self control.
Some nights I love doing the dishes...
One of the redeeming things about doing the dishes at my house is the view out of the window over the sink. In the summer the trees block out some of the mountains, but I still get to see glorious sunsets. Last Thursday night was spectacular. The oranges, pinks, and purples are absolutely stunning! Makes me feel so insignificant and so loved at the same time.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Happy Birthaversary!
My friend Alison coined this word for those that have their birthday and their anniversary close together. This is exactly Ken's situation, so it is nice to have a word for the celebrations.
On Friday we all headed down to Holly and Brian's house. For Mother's Day Brian had given Holly and I gift certificates to a spa. We chose this Friday for our massages, manicures, and pedicures. I had never been to a spa before -- it was amazing and I felt so pampered. I especially loved the massage with how my neck has been so sore lately. I also loved spending the day with Holly (Brian had offered to watch all the kiddos). They had also offered to take the kids for the weekend. The best "birthaversary" present ever!
Friday night we celebrated Ken's birthday by going out to eat with Holly and Brian while Kelly watched the kids. It must be so nice to have a built in babysitter. After dinner we went and saw Get Smart. Hilarious!!! We absolutely love spending time with Holly and Brian. They are so fun and great to talk with.
The rest of the weekend we completely enjoyed being together. We went shopping, out to eat, watched movies, and talked, talked, talked. We went and saw Jekyll and Hyde on Saturday night. I have been wanting to see that musical for some time. I was impressed with the performance (for community theater) and liked the show despite the dark plot -- it had some great music. I love live theater!
Another one of the highlights of the weekend for me was watching our wedding video. It has probably been 10 years or so since we have seen it. A few things really struck me. First of all, holy cow, we were young! Ken looked completely shell shocked! Who could blame him? It was really the first time he met most of my large crazy family. :) Which brings me to another thing that impacted me. It is was so wonderful to see how many people loved and supported us by making the trip to San Diego for our wedding. Besides marrying my sweetheart, that was the best thing about that day!
The last 12 years seem to have gone by so quickly. Our wedding doesn't seem that long ago and it is also a lifetime away. Even though we were so young, I totally would marry him again. I think that Ken and I are a great fit for each other and I love him so much. I am so grateful for the last 12 years and all the experiences we have shared together. I feel so blessed and it just keeps getting better...
On Friday we all headed down to Holly and Brian's house. For Mother's Day Brian had given Holly and I gift certificates to a spa. We chose this Friday for our massages, manicures, and pedicures. I had never been to a spa before -- it was amazing and I felt so pampered. I especially loved the massage with how my neck has been so sore lately. I also loved spending the day with Holly (Brian had offered to watch all the kiddos). They had also offered to take the kids for the weekend. The best "birthaversary" present ever!
Friday night we celebrated Ken's birthday by going out to eat with Holly and Brian while Kelly watched the kids. It must be so nice to have a built in babysitter. After dinner we went and saw Get Smart. Hilarious!!! We absolutely love spending time with Holly and Brian. They are so fun and great to talk with.
The rest of the weekend we completely enjoyed being together. We went shopping, out to eat, watched movies, and talked, talked, talked. We went and saw Jekyll and Hyde on Saturday night. I have been wanting to see that musical for some time. I was impressed with the performance (for community theater) and liked the show despite the dark plot -- it had some great music. I love live theater!
Another one of the highlights of the weekend for me was watching our wedding video. It has probably been 10 years or so since we have seen it. A few things really struck me. First of all, holy cow, we were young! Ken looked completely shell shocked! Who could blame him? It was really the first time he met most of my large crazy family. :) Which brings me to another thing that impacted me. It is was so wonderful to see how many people loved and supported us by making the trip to San Diego for our wedding. Besides marrying my sweetheart, that was the best thing about that day!
The last 12 years seem to have gone by so quickly. Our wedding doesn't seem that long ago and it is also a lifetime away. Even though we were so young, I totally would marry him again. I think that Ken and I are a great fit for each other and I love him so much. I am so grateful for the last 12 years and all the experiences we have shared together. I feel so blessed and it just keeps getting better...
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Sun and sand...
Yesterday we had so much stinkin' fun at Union Reservoir. I can't believe that we have never gone there before! We are going back again next Wednesday for anyone that is interested. There is a great beach, shade trees, and a park. The kids had a blast and I can't wait to go again!
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Ode to the Allreds
For months I knew this day was coming. Now that it is here, it is not any easier. Today our dear friends, Shane and Rochelle Allred, are moving. My heart is aching and there is this horrible lump in my throat that does not seem to be going away. I cannot say enough about this amazing family -- they will be so missed!
Shane and Ken were in school at BYU together and we knew he had also gotten a job with IBM and would soon be joining us out in Colorado. Even though I had not met them yet, I looked forward to the Allreds, DeBrys, and Klines (all at school together) all being here. As soon as I met Shane and Rochelle I knew we would be good friends.
This was before either of us had kids and we spent a lot of late nights hanging out, watching movies, and talking. I soon learned that I had to eat carefully around Shane. He is so funny-- on more than one occasion I have choked on my food because Shane says something hilarious right after I take a bite. (Maybe he does it on purpose?!?) I think it was during this time we became each other's "Colorado family." We started spending many weekends and holidays together.
We also started establishing traditions together. When we were in town for a holiday we would spend it together. The Allreds, Debrys, Klines, and Siders have had many a meal together. :) Even if we had family in town visiting, often they would join us in the celebration. After all, they were our family too. We also started going up to Montana to the Debry's family cabin. We started doing this when we each just had one baby, now we are totally outnumbered by kids. I hope we never fall out of favor with the Debrys because this is one of our kids, and our, favorite traditions -- every summer we go up to "the cabin." We all look forward to it every summer and count down the days until we go ( only 2 and a half weeks!). When the Debrys moved to Idaho we were so sad and Rochelle and I threw a goodbye dinner party for them. This too became a tradition. Every year since then we have hosted the Allred/Siders Christmas party. This past year before we had even figured out when we were doing it, we had people asking when it was so they could reserve their babysitter. :)
Then of course, there are the thousands of little things: play dates for the kids, who practically grew up together, fun trips and picnic lunches to the zoo, Canadian Thanksgiving, watching SYTYCD together, book club, and girls' nights. Too many wonderful times together to count. The Allred family is completely entwined with our life here in Colorado. It is very difficult seeing them go.
On Saturday we had a little goodbye party for the Allreds. We had it at the park because we knew there was no way any of our houses could hold all of their friends. It was a beautiful evening spent with friends and hopefully a wonderful last hurrah with the Allreds -- hopefully Becky will post some of them pictures she took soon. :) I think they really loved the scrapbook we made of just a few of their Colorado friends (they have many that call them friend!). I hope everyone had as much fun as I did and thanks to all those that came out to say goodbye.
My dear friend Rochelle is one of the greatest examples in my life. She is one of the best examples of Christlike love and service that I know. She has such grace and patience and handles just about anything thrown at her in such a beautiful way. She is always willing to serve -- I can't tell you how many times she has watched our kiddos for us. She is a true friend who always keeps confidences, thinks and speaks the best of others, and loves unconditionally. Rochelle is one of those people that you can count on and it is a great blessing in my life that she counted on me too. I am so glad that I was one of the people she would call if things got a little overwhelming (which was not very often because she is really good at rolling with the punches). She has a beautiful spirit about her and such a love of the gospel. She always wants to do what is right. I love her so much and I am so grateful for her example and all that she has added to my life and to all those who knew her.
I will miss you my dear friend. This morning it was hard to say goodbye. As the tears were flowing (you know, the the UGLY kind) and Ken was hugging me to try and ease some of the pain, I asked him if he and Shane were upset too. He assured me they were crying on the inside. :) I wish you all the very best. Utah is not really that far away and I am always up for a road trip. I love you very much!
Shane and Ken were in school at BYU together and we knew he had also gotten a job with IBM and would soon be joining us out in Colorado. Even though I had not met them yet, I looked forward to the Allreds, DeBrys, and Klines (all at school together) all being here. As soon as I met Shane and Rochelle I knew we would be good friends.
This was before either of us had kids and we spent a lot of late nights hanging out, watching movies, and talking. I soon learned that I had to eat carefully around Shane. He is so funny-- on more than one occasion I have choked on my food because Shane says something hilarious right after I take a bite. (Maybe he does it on purpose?!?) I think it was during this time we became each other's "Colorado family." We started spending many weekends and holidays together.
We also started establishing traditions together. When we were in town for a holiday we would spend it together. The Allreds, Debrys, Klines, and Siders have had many a meal together. :) Even if we had family in town visiting, often they would join us in the celebration. After all, they were our family too. We also started going up to Montana to the Debry's family cabin. We started doing this when we each just had one baby, now we are totally outnumbered by kids. I hope we never fall out of favor with the Debrys because this is one of our kids, and our, favorite traditions -- every summer we go up to "the cabin." We all look forward to it every summer and count down the days until we go ( only 2 and a half weeks!). When the Debrys moved to Idaho we were so sad and Rochelle and I threw a goodbye dinner party for them. This too became a tradition. Every year since then we have hosted the Allred/Siders Christmas party. This past year before we had even figured out when we were doing it, we had people asking when it was so they could reserve their babysitter. :)
Then of course, there are the thousands of little things: play dates for the kids, who practically grew up together, fun trips and picnic lunches to the zoo, Canadian Thanksgiving, watching SYTYCD together, book club, and girls' nights. Too many wonderful times together to count. The Allred family is completely entwined with our life here in Colorado. It is very difficult seeing them go.
On Saturday we had a little goodbye party for the Allreds. We had it at the park because we knew there was no way any of our houses could hold all of their friends. It was a beautiful evening spent with friends and hopefully a wonderful last hurrah with the Allreds -- hopefully Becky will post some of them pictures she took soon. :) I think they really loved the scrapbook we made of just a few of their Colorado friends (they have many that call them friend!). I hope everyone had as much fun as I did and thanks to all those that came out to say goodbye.
My dear friend Rochelle is one of the greatest examples in my life. She is one of the best examples of Christlike love and service that I know. She has such grace and patience and handles just about anything thrown at her in such a beautiful way. She is always willing to serve -- I can't tell you how many times she has watched our kiddos for us. She is a true friend who always keeps confidences, thinks and speaks the best of others, and loves unconditionally. Rochelle is one of those people that you can count on and it is a great blessing in my life that she counted on me too. I am so glad that I was one of the people she would call if things got a little overwhelming (which was not very often because she is really good at rolling with the punches). She has a beautiful spirit about her and such a love of the gospel. She always wants to do what is right. I love her so much and I am so grateful for her example and all that she has added to my life and to all those who knew her.
I will miss you my dear friend. This morning it was hard to say goodbye. As the tears were flowing (you know, the the UGLY kind) and Ken was hugging me to try and ease some of the pain, I asked him if he and Shane were upset too. He assured me they were crying on the inside. :) I wish you all the very best. Utah is not really that far away and I am always up for a road trip. I love you very much!
Monday, June 23, 2008
It's the little things...
Yesterday I was struck again by how fortunate I am to be married to Ken! I pretty much always feel that way, but I have to admit that I love it when he does something to remind me. :) Sundays are usually kind of hectic, Ken is busy with church meetings so we don't get to see too much of him and I have my hands plenty full with the kids.
Somehow yesterday I forgot my Sunday school manual and I had to teach my class. After I realized that, Ken helped me look several places to find an extra one, but no luck. So I headed to class to teach something off the top of my head, (I was going to do favorite scriptures and then teach them how to use the footnotes and look up scripture chains) hoping for the best, and wanting A LOT of class participation. We had just finished the opening prayer when Ken showed up at my door with a manual. He had continued to look for one even after I had gone to class. So kind and thoughtful!
I was asked to sing a solo for the closing song in Relief Society. It really tickled me to see him come in and sit down in the back. He had come into that room full of women to support me and hear me sing. Having him there while I sang really meant a ton to me. I am so thankful for the many little things that he does for me and our children that help us and make us feel so loved. It made for one of those days that I could truly say that my love for him grew and I loved him more than the day before.
It was a wonderful day!
Somehow yesterday I forgot my Sunday school manual and I had to teach my class. After I realized that, Ken helped me look several places to find an extra one, but no luck. So I headed to class to teach something off the top of my head, (I was going to do favorite scriptures and then teach them how to use the footnotes and look up scripture chains) hoping for the best, and wanting A LOT of class participation. We had just finished the opening prayer when Ken showed up at my door with a manual. He had continued to look for one even after I had gone to class. So kind and thoughtful!
I was asked to sing a solo for the closing song in Relief Society. It really tickled me to see him come in and sit down in the back. He had come into that room full of women to support me and hear me sing. Having him there while I sang really meant a ton to me. I am so thankful for the many little things that he does for me and our children that help us and make us feel so loved. It made for one of those days that I could truly say that my love for him grew and I loved him more than the day before.
It was a wonderful day!
Friday, June 20, 2008
Good friends...
One of the greatest blessings in my life is wonderful friends. Throughout the years, in whatever place we may be living at the time, I have been privileged to have amazing people be my friends. Besides my family and the gospel, these people have probably had the biggest influence on me. I have been thinking a lot about friendship lately because one of my dearest friends, you know one of those friends that become your family, is moving next week. But more on that later...
Last night we had my friend Shannon, her husband Mike, and their 6 month old baby, Aaron over for dinner. Shannon and I became best friends in 6th grade when we both lived in Quantico, VA. We lived in the same cul-de-sac. I think 7th grade was really when I started becoming me and she was there every step of the way. When I moved that summer to Okinawa, she was one of the people I would miss most. Lucky for me, we didn't have to miss each other very long. The next summer before our freshman year at Kubasaki, her family moved in directly across the cul-de-sac from us and we picked up right where we left off. I moved again after our sophomore year and we both graduated from high school, went on to college, and both eventually got married. And then I got lucky again.
About 3 and a half years ago she moved with her new husband Mike to Colorado. I hadn't seen her in over 12 years, but our relationship was exactly the same. Sure, we had stuff to catch up on, but WE were the same -- she really knew me and I really knew her and all the years and miles had not changed that.
Last night we had such a blast with them! We don't get to see them very often; we both seem to have real life going on. :) But I was struck again by how, even though we don't see each other as much as we would like, we pick up right where we left off. That, to me, is so cool!
I am so grateful for good friends, like Shannon, that have made my life so sweet.
Last night we had my friend Shannon, her husband Mike, and their 6 month old baby, Aaron over for dinner. Shannon and I became best friends in 6th grade when we both lived in Quantico, VA. We lived in the same cul-de-sac. I think 7th grade was really when I started becoming me and she was there every step of the way. When I moved that summer to Okinawa, she was one of the people I would miss most. Lucky for me, we didn't have to miss each other very long. The next summer before our freshman year at Kubasaki, her family moved in directly across the cul-de-sac from us and we picked up right where we left off. I moved again after our sophomore year and we both graduated from high school, went on to college, and both eventually got married. And then I got lucky again.
About 3 and a half years ago she moved with her new husband Mike to Colorado. I hadn't seen her in over 12 years, but our relationship was exactly the same. Sure, we had stuff to catch up on, but WE were the same -- she really knew me and I really knew her and all the years and miles had not changed that.
Last night we had such a blast with them! We don't get to see them very often; we both seem to have real life going on. :) But I was struck again by how, even though we don't see each other as much as we would like, we pick up right where we left off. That, to me, is so cool!
I am so grateful for good friends, like Shannon, that have made my life so sweet.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
The moon...
I am a sucker for a beautiful moon. Last night when Joette was leaving she quickly came back and told me to come out and see the moon. It was a beautiful, full moon. It was also a gorgeous color-- slightly pinkish orange. One of those moons where you could see all the details of it. The kind where you know in ages past, before we knew it was rock and dust, people must have wondered what kind of magical place it was.
I quickly grabbed my camera and despite my efforts, I was not successful in catching the beauty of the moment. I did get one that was not too bad though...
"When I admire the wonder of a sunset or the beauty of the moon, my soul expands in worship of the Creator. " -- Gandhi
I quickly grabbed my camera and despite my efforts, I was not successful in catching the beauty of the moment. I did get one that was not too bad though...
"When I admire the wonder of a sunset or the beauty of the moon, my soul expands in worship of the Creator. " -- Gandhi
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Ouch!!!!
Pardon me while I whine...
I have not been in so much pain since my c-section with Peyton. When I woke up on Saturday my neck was a little stiff, but I tried to ignore it. Throughout the day I just kept getting worse. I was doing the whole, turn my whole body thing instead of just my neck, and I could not bend without it killing. Advil was not even touching this sucker so luckily, Brandie hooked me up with some vicodin and that took a little of the edge off.
I couldn't figure out how to work Sunday. I knew it probably wouldn't be such a great idea for me to go to church, but I was teaching Sunday school, subbing in Trevor's primary class, and of course wrangling the kids during sacrament meeting while Ken was up on the stand, so off I went with my sweet kiddos. Just a few minutes into the meeting and I knew I had made a horrible mistake by coming, not to mention the grimace on my face was, I am sure, not that attractive. The pain was horrible and I was not coping well. It was such a blessing when my friend Joette saw me, asked what I was doing there, took my Sunday school manual, and told me to go home. When I got home, I quickly fell into a drugged sleep and slept for the next 6 hours.
In other words, it was a lousy Father's Day for Ken. He had to do most of the lifting considering I could barely move. (I promised him that we would celebrate -- complete with blueberry muffins, his favorite -- next Sunday.) Bless his heart for helping get everything ready for Holly and Brian's family that we had for dinner that night.
Monday I was slightly better, but I was still in a lot of pain. I was grateful for the chiropractor that Tasha recommended. He was able to fit me into his schedule and I feel like I am slowly on the mend. I am still pretty sore, but I am actually able to do some things around the house. I am so blessed to have dear friends help me and my family while I am on the mend and my wonderful Ken that has picked up my slack. Boy, it sure makes me glad for a healthy body (most of the time at least).
I have not been in so much pain since my c-section with Peyton. When I woke up on Saturday my neck was a little stiff, but I tried to ignore it. Throughout the day I just kept getting worse. I was doing the whole, turn my whole body thing instead of just my neck, and I could not bend without it killing. Advil was not even touching this sucker so luckily, Brandie hooked me up with some vicodin and that took a little of the edge off.
I couldn't figure out how to work Sunday. I knew it probably wouldn't be such a great idea for me to go to church, but I was teaching Sunday school, subbing in Trevor's primary class, and of course wrangling the kids during sacrament meeting while Ken was up on the stand, so off I went with my sweet kiddos. Just a few minutes into the meeting and I knew I had made a horrible mistake by coming, not to mention the grimace on my face was, I am sure, not that attractive. The pain was horrible and I was not coping well. It was such a blessing when my friend Joette saw me, asked what I was doing there, took my Sunday school manual, and told me to go home. When I got home, I quickly fell into a drugged sleep and slept for the next 6 hours.
In other words, it was a lousy Father's Day for Ken. He had to do most of the lifting considering I could barely move. (I promised him that we would celebrate -- complete with blueberry muffins, his favorite -- next Sunday.) Bless his heart for helping get everything ready for Holly and Brian's family that we had for dinner that night.
Monday I was slightly better, but I was still in a lot of pain. I was grateful for the chiropractor that Tasha recommended. He was able to fit me into his schedule and I feel like I am slowly on the mend. I am still pretty sore, but I am actually able to do some things around the house. I am so blessed to have dear friends help me and my family while I am on the mend and my wonderful Ken that has picked up my slack. Boy, it sure makes me glad for a healthy body (most of the time at least).
Friday, June 13, 2008
Bravo...
I am so proud of all my students that performed last night. They all did an outstanding job! It is thrilling for me when the best time they have ever sang their song is at the recital and that happened for several of them. I am so proud of their progress! For those that have been with me awhile, it is great to see the difference from last year and hear the improvement they are making. I love knowing that I have a small part of that. Ken was the accompanist for everyone and, as usual, he rocked. We enjoyed a great evening together; beautiful singing and yummy treats. Maybe next year ALL my students will be up to performing.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
An invitation...
For those that would be interested, my private vocal students will be performing in recital on Thursday at 6:00 at the Frederick building of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I am really looking forward to them showing what they have been working so hard on. There will be Art Songs (Italian and English), a spiritual, and lots of Broadway songs (My Fair Lady, Guys and Dolls, Wicked, Hairspray and others). There will also be some yummy refreshments served, so come on down and enjoy and evening of culture. :)
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