Christ

This holiday season I feel very blessed to really have focused on Christ. He truly is the reason for the season and it has been extra special this year to help Abigail and Lauren come to realize that. We have had so much fun acting out the nativity story, watching a few videos celebrating His birth, singing carols that praise Him and having Christ be the center of our celebrations. It is so sweet to see little Abigail talk about Jesus and how she just loves Him so much. She always says, " I want Jesus to come to my house" and that is what I've been aiming for this holiday season- and to carry on- to have Christ be the center of our home. Lauren is so sweet as well and carries the plastic baby Jesus from our Little People nativity around with her everywhere. She loves her "baby" and makes sure every year that it doesn't get put away when Christmas is over. I am thankful for Christmas and the miracle of Christ's birth. I am thankful for my own children and the miracles that they are to me. I am grateful for this wonderful season that helped me really put those two miracles together.

Family

We are so blessed to have two such wonderful extended families. This holiday season it was so great to visit with most of them and to go from one to the other. We were so happy to go to Couer d'Alene and see family there and so happy to return and see family here. We really are blessed. I am grateful for the extra love I have personally felt for each family member this holiday season. It is amazing to see this love grow and to watch others' joys become my own and others' sorrows become mine as well. There is a unifying power from sharing our experiences with those we love most and I am grateful for that and for such wonderful family.

Food

Food is a blessing! I know that it is necessary for survival and sometimes even seems like a maintenance burden to have to always make time for, but it really is such a blessing. This holiday season, maybe too much so, has really helped me realize how much I love food and how blessed we are to have the abundance that we do. While we were in Idaho I felt that I ate like a king! There was just so much delicious homemade food and goodies and snacks and my tummy was happy beyond belief.

I've been thinking about how the scriptures have been compared to food and how we can feast upon the scriptures daily to replenish our spirits. I guess I am just motivated to increase my love and excitement for the scriptures to that which I have for food. We can go from spiritually starving to a daily maintenace and schedule of study to really feasting and being excited about the words of the Lord. I am blessed for great physical and spirital nourishment.

Travel

For the remainder of my December posts I thought I'd record my blessings by a few topics instead of by date. With the holidays and traveling and limited internet access it has been difficult to record my daily blessings in the typical format so I'm going to improvise and post a few of the topics that have been such big blessings for me for the end of the year.

First is travel. We did a bit of traveling this Christmas season to Idaho and back. For the last couple of weeks the stress of traveling has been in the back of my mind and it usually builds up until we arrive safely at our destination and then isn't completely gone until we're back at home. This year I was blessed to do much better. I feel so grateful that I was able to be so close to the Spirit and to follow its promptings.

We were planning to leave on Monday and stay for the weekend so we could see Melissa and so I could teach my Sunday School class and then come back the following Saturday. But, Friday night as I was checking the weather and pass reports and praying about when we should leave I felt very strongly that we needed to leave sooner. We packed that night and left the following morning, and what a blessing that was. We were just ahead of the snow and made the long drive safely. We were blessed with two extra days with Drew's family. Our two reasons for staying became inapplicable as Melissa didn't even make it home until Monday and church was cancelled that Sunday because of all the snow. I don't even know if we would have made it or how much extra time it sould have taken us if we'd left when we originally planned. We are blessed.

For the return journey we planned on leaving on Saturday and honestly I didn't even check weather or pass reports or anything until Friday so I could just enjoy the holiday season without worrying about traveling. When I did finally check the conditions were not good. Friday night chains were required through the heavy snow in the pass and Saturday morning the pass was completely closed for avalanche control. But, when I prayed about it I still felt that we should leave and that we should travel by faith and not fear.

This was probably my most relaxed cross-state drive yet. We were heading towards a pass that wasn't even open, but I was blessed to feel at peace. We checked the pass report as we travelled and it progressed from closed to open with packed snow and ice to only bare and wet roads with standing water by the time we arrived. We were able to make it safely home again and I am so grateful.

Traveling is a time when I really rely on the Lord and while I have sometimes hated the stress of traveling I am learning to realize that it is a time when I can live with greater faith and rely on the Lord to bring us home safely according to His will.

Family Game Night

Because of all the snow and school closures Abigail's swim class was cancelled tonight. We decided to stay home and just play together. We got out some of the kid games and had a ball together! We played Alphabet Bingo, Rush Hour, Connect Four, etc and it was so fun just to relax and play in the playroom as a family. What a blessing a cancelled swim class brought to us!

A Sleepy Abigail

Today the girls have been feeling sick. I keep hoping they'll be getting better already, but we keep trying to make the most of it- we've been doing a lot of our 'rainy day' activities and I've been able to get some great snuggle time with each of them in. Tonight, though, Abbie was having a really hard time falling asleep. She's so tired, but her little nose was so congested and rubbed almost raw that she just couldn't get comfortable enough to fall asleep. It really was quite heart wrenching; she was crying on her bed, saying she just didn't want her nose to hurt anymore. I felt quite helpless, and was torn between complete compassion and wanting all her pains to go away, and tough love, where I wanted her to learn to endure and even enjoy the trials that come along.

I found relief as I felt inspired to say a special prayer with her that she'd be able to fall asleep and be comforted, even though her nose was hurting her. She calmed down, I snuggled her some more and sang her another lullaby, and she was able to fall asleep.

I feel blessed for many things during this simple experience- I'm blessed for her and her sweet petitions to me to make everything better, I'm blessed for the inspiration to pray to someone who really can make everything better, I'm blessed to know that we can be granted strength and comfort, even when everything isn't made better, and I'm blessed to share these sweet teaching moments with my Abigail.

A Full Night Sleep

I know I've been slacking at keeping these posts up to date- I think the adversary is trying to distract me from remembering all of my blessings and from whom they come. And so, I'm even more motivated to make time and record the wonderful ways in which my life is daily blessed. Today: a full night's sleep.

Sleep is something that Drew and I take pretty seriously- we are advocates of the BabyWise methodology and have had our kids sleeping through the night and taking quality naps from when they were very small, so when they start getting together and causing mischief we definitely take notice, and well, lose sleep. Lauren, in particular has been a recent little rascal in the night- and insists on waking up Abbie (who can open up the door for her) and then come to our room and wake us up. Well, last night was different. The girls slept in different rooms and neither one woke up at all. All night. And for me, that is a much needed blessing.

Now, if I can just figure out how to get Abbie to take a good nap before 4pm...

Birthday Boy

Drew is a blessing to my life every single day and today is his birthday. I feel so blessed to have someone love me so much. Sometimes I feel so undeserving- I'm really such a goof at heart- and yet he still loves me.

Tonight while we were out celebrating his bday together we did a little shopping to spend my "$10 off a $10 purchase" coupon that was burning a hole in my coupon organizer (you thought I was going to say 'pocket' didn't you, but remember- I'm a goof). I thought it would be a great chance for him to pick out a little extra something fun for himself, but he insisted that we get me some more funky socks that I love wearing (yet again- goof), and so we did. Drew is the biggest blessing of my life, and yet it is manifested in so many small and simple ways- like a few pairs of socks for me on his birthday. I am blessed.

Potty-Training Big Girl

Lauren has really been amazing me recently- she is practically potty-training herself, I'm sure in an effort to always keep up with Abigail, but it has been such an unexpected and wonderful blessing! She will tell me when she needs to go potty and then sit and read her book as she goes and then get wiped, put her little potty seat away, close the lid, and flush her potty. It is the sweetest thing! And even sweeter because she is the one initiating everything. I haven't changed a messy diaper in days- what a great blessing!

Also, she wears panties over her diaper so she can be like big sister. What a cutie!

Abbie Day

This afternoon was so fun! My Mom and I took Abigail to the zoo (Drew was home with a sick Lauren) and I decided to let Abigail pick exaclty what we did and where we went for the zoo outing. It was so fun watching her get so excited over what we were doing next and letting her be in control (something I usually hate giving up). I felt like a grandparent for the day, and less like a schedule-keeping, rule-enforcing mom that I am the rest of the time. And it was a blessing. She is a blessing : ).

The Christmas Spirit

I love this time of year. I can hardly believe it's December already, so I've been trying to get in the Christmas mood so I can really enjoy it before it's gone. Tonight I had the perfect opportunity to do that and I finally feel like I'm caught up and ready to make the most out of this special season. Right after we put the girls down I went to the Living Room and made myself cozy on the couch to write out my Christmas cards. It really was just perfect- well, now that I think about it, a cup of hot cocoa and some snow falling outside might have sealed the deal, but it seemed just lovely and I felt that peaceful, cozy spirit of this time of year. There was Christmas music playing in the background, the tree was lit and glowing, my blanket was extra snuggly and I had time to reflect on the many wonderful people that I am blessed to know and love. I am grateful for this season to rejoice in the Savior's birth and I am grateful for the Christmas spirit.

Family DVD

Today my Mom and I went to Costco to pick up a DVD that she ordered from 8mm tapes of her family when she was growing up. Then, before swim class tonight we all went over to watch. It was so fun! Abbie loved seeing Grandma as a little girl- and it was so cute to see my Aunt Carol and Mom playing together like Abigail and Lauren do. It was also great to see my Grandma- even though you could tell she didn't like getting taped, and to see her as a young Mom. I am so grateful for technology- even simple technology that allows us to have a glimpse into another's world- it really is such a blessing and it's amazing how far it has come. I am blessed to be a part of this family, and to see a little bit more today of its roots.

Elder Wirthlin

Today Elder Wirthlin, a beloved apostle passed away. Elder Wirthlin has been in my thoughts recently. His most recent conference address really impressed me and I've taken a deep liking to the phrase, "Come what may, and love it" that he quoted there. I was also particularly touched and felt the Spirit very strongly during his October conference talk when he began to shake while speaking. I really felt that he was a man called of God and that the things he was saying needed to be said. And they were; he persevered to finish his remarks with the loving hand of his friend, Elder Nelson to support him. I feel so blessed to live in this wonderful time and to learn from such wonderful leaders.

Family Talk

Today was a busy day of setting up Christmas decorations, hanging out with family, and eating yummy leftovers. But, somewhere in the middle of the chaos I was able to find some time to just sit and talk with my sister. It was a really great talk that has kept me thinking since, and has really helped open my mind and my heart more to the different family situations that are out there. I am so blessed to have a great family- a loving spouse and wonderful kids and a great extended family; and today I feel blessed to really empathize and have a new understanding for all of the difficulties and unseen trials that come with family situations that aren't necessarily the ideal. I found myself being encompassed with love for someone that I don't even know and really just want to find a way to make everything all better. I'm not sure what I can exactly do other than offer my prayers, but I feel closer to the Savior and his infinite love for others. I am humbled, and I am blessed.

Black Friday

Today is a day that is characteristically 'of the world' and I must admit that I did do some worldy shopping at the crack of dawn, but I feel very blessed for my 'in the world, but not of the world' experiences that I was able to have with my family during the day. This morning I was able to spend a lot of time with my Mom, and a little with my sister, Veronica. Then this afternoon my sisters Tabitha and Melissa spent time with Drew and I and the girls, and then we were all together this evening. I just feel so blessed to have such a long, fun day enjoying family.

Thanksgiving

What a day!

I love Thanksgiving. I love the food and the family and the traditions and the ads. But most of all I really love that we have this holiday- a day dedicated to gratitude- and remembering from Whom our blessings come. We really an abundant life and have so much to be thankful for. It can actually be a bit overwhelming to think of all the bounties and blessings that we enjoy, but I am glad to do it : ). I created this blog, this record, to help me remember all of the blessings that I receive on a daily basis, no matter how big or small, and to help me to always be watching for blessings that I might have previously not been aware of. And so, today I feel such an overwhelming gratitude for this year and for life: for the blessing upon blessing which we have been given, and I am grateful for my biggest blessings of all.

I am thankful for my Savior, whose love and forgiveness surpasses even my greatest follies;

For my knowledge of the plan of happiness, that gives me a surefire faith to endure to the end, which end I know will be great;

For my family, whose unconditional love makes me want to live more worthily to be with them forever;

And for great friends, who motivate and inspire me to always do better.

I am so blessed.

Good Timing at the Zoo

Today we had a fun outing at the zoo with our friends. Our whole experience was great, but I feel particulalry blessed for our great, and unforeseen, timing with the different zoo exhibits. Every trip to the zoo is different- the animals are doing something different, there's different people visiting and working, the weather's different, etc. And today, our lucky- and I feel blessed- timing really made the trip extra special. We got a great, personal interaction with the tiger, we watched the monkeys goof off, and we arrived just in time for the feeding and training of the beluga whales, which was the highlight for Abigail and Lauren. I think this was a little blessing for us and I am grateful for it.

Good Morning Ritual

It's 8:17am and my girls aren't up yet. Blessing.

It's 8:17am and I've already been up with Drew, showered, gotten dressed and ready for my day, said my prayers, read my scriptures, and prepared my Sunday School lesson. Blessing x 6.

It's 8:17am and I have a feeling today is going to be a good day. Blessing.

Trials

Today's Relief Society lesson was so beautiful and powerful. I felt the spirit so strongly and I know that this lesson was prepared and anticipated for this time in our lives. The lesson was on enduring our trials and tribulations well, and gave several accounts from Joseph Smith's life that are just heart-wrenching. I guess trials in general have been on my mind lately; not even necessarily because we are being downtrodden with them, but because I see them all around me- in the lives of my family, my friends, my church, and the world in general. Part of me just wants them to all go away, but I know that they really are there for a reason- to help us become better and stronger, to help those around us, to help us be more empathetic for others, and more. I keep thinking of the quote from Elder Worthlin's recent conference address: "Come what may, and love it." And I think that's really what it's all about. To love it; life. Even amidst the trials and the burdens we are given to bare. I feel blessed for this reassurance and hope I can find a little more peace despite the storm.

Dermatologist

Today I finally had my dermatologist appointment that I've been waiting months for. I feel so blessed for the opportunity to go, for the great advice and treatment plan I was given, and for such a wonderful and supportive husband who truly wants me to be happy and to have my wants and needs met. I am so grateful that I was able to go, and even more so that Drew took time off to go with me.

Primary Program

Today was our ward primary program, and it was so wonderful! I'm so excited for next year when Abigail will be in primary and can participate in the program- she really wanted to be up there this year : ). I love the simple testimonies and innocence of little children, it just really helps me feel the spirit strongly. The primary choir during General Conference was the same, and it is such a blessing to be surrounded by such a beautiful and righteous little generation.

Shrimp!

Tonight Drew and I went out on a hot date and celebrated my completed architecture project (and paycheck) and ate our little hearts out. Food always seems to be a good blessing for me- I just love it!- but really good food was an extra big blessing! I seriously was on a kind of 'shrimp high' from the endless shrimp platter that I indulged in and it was just a much needed blessing that really hit the spot for me.

A Prjoect Completed

This has been a really busy week for me. I've been doing an architectural project for a friend and it's my first 'real-world' design endeavor that I've done by myself and there has been a lot of emotions and triumphs and disappointments all crammed into just a few short weeks. Today, though, was the turning point and I feel so so blessed.

My main struggle has just been my confidence. It's been a few years since I've been really active with my architecture skills, and even that was only in hypothetical design, not in the real world. So, today I was quite anxious about presenting the final construction documents to the contractor and then turn them in to the Building Department. But it went so well. So well. So well that if I hadn't been so darn tired from staying up all night last night to finish everything I would have been jumping up and down for joy, instead I just took a nice relaxing breath and had a big smile on my face for the rest of the day. It was just so nice to know that I was on the right track and had done everything right (and way beyond what was expected, actually). That is a big confidence booster for me and a big blessing.

A Vote

Today Drew and I voted. In Washington everyone does vote by mail so we've actually had our ballots and the opportunity to vote for over a week now, but it wasn't until tonight when I had a good chance to read over all of the candidates and the issues that I finally cast my vote. Voting really is such a blessing, and is representative of the greater blessing we have, of living in a country with freedom and democracy. I am so thankful to live in this day and this time and this country. I am blessed.

Stake Conference

Tonight was the adult session of Stake Conference, which has really become one of my favorite meetings to attend. I have really grown to look forward to this semi-annual Saturday evening where Drew goes first to his Priesthood meeting then I join him for dinner and we attend the adult session together. Tonight the outline was so simple- only three speakers, the third being Elder Perry of the Seventy who had the entire second hour to speak and have a question and answer period. Recently it seems like there's been a return to basics- to the basic principles of happiness in the home and of family exaltation, and it was such a blessing to be inspired to do a little better and to know how important our efforts are.

These really are trying times, and it is sometimes overwhelming how powerful and sneaky the adversary can be at attacking the things that we hold most precious. It is a blessing for me to know that we can withstand all the tempests and whirlwinds of life if we cling to the principles that we've been taught. I am really grateful for that.

A Lauren Cuddle

I've been staying up late working on an architecture project and tonight that led to a blessing of some extra cuddle time with Lauren.

I don't know if this happens to all parents, but my selective hearing has definitely kicked in as my girls are growing up. When Abbie was a baby I could hardly sleep- I always thought she might be crying. People could be mowing a lawn miles away and I would think it was her crying. So, I'd rush to her bed and check on her, even though she'd be sound asleep. Now.... three and a half years later, I honestly think I sleep through most of my kids' crying. It's sad to say, but by the time I finally realize that there is real crying (not just the lull that's been thread into my dreams) the poor kid has probably been crying for quite some time.

Anyway, tonight I was awake. And I heard Lauren cry. And I went in right away and just cuddled her until she fell back asleep. And it was a peaceful, blissful moment; and that is a blessing.

Progress

Kids can be frustrating. This is true. But, today I was thinking about how sometimes it really is my choice to be frustrated. I guess I realized that I sometimes only notice all of the girls' behaviors that need to be corrected or refined and forget how much progress they really have made on the things we've been working on in the past.

Here's this morning's example: Abbie was driving me a bit crazy that she wouldn't sit still in her chair and keep her legs forward while she was eating, and I kept trying to remind and teach her how to sit still and eat nicely. During all of this though she was using such nice manners and, as we call them, only using 'asking words' instead of telling me what she wants. This has been something that I've been teaching for quite some time now- that it's not enough to say 'I want' and then just add a 'please', but to actually ask with a please. So, in the midst of a frazzled breakfast I feel blessed for realizing that she (and I) are making progress. Of course I'm always going to be teaching new things and refining bad habits, but we are both continually moving onward and upward. That is both a blessing in itself and a blessing just to realize it.

Family

This has been a big weekend of family. It has been so great and really reminds me of what a blessing family is. I don't have a large extended family, but I am grateful for the family I do have and for the close relationships that we share. And I feel so blessed that we were ALL able to be here together this weekend. The girls were probably a little overwhelmed by all of the people who were adoring them, but they sure loved it too! Abbie kept saying, "is this all your family, Mommy?" or "is the family coming over?" or "the family is here!" Maybe you had to hear her say it, but the way she said "family" was just so sweet and really helped me remember again how blessed we are to have each other.

My Grandpa's Memorial

Today was my Grandpa's Memorial service. I had a much harder time emotionally than I predicted right after he passed away and today it seemed to hit me all over again. During the service I was feeling particularly sad and just missing him so much and I kept trying to get myself to focus on the positives but nothing seemed to be working. Then, as we were singing a hymn this bright ray of light just shone in from the side windows right on me. And it was exactly what I needed. It was a blessing to me; it was like the heavens were just a little bit closer and a little bit brighter and someone was sending me a big, light-filled hug to let me know that everything really was okay. And it is.

The whole service was so beautiful. Drew spoke and my cousin Erin played her flute and then Melissa gave the most beautiful eulogy that just sealed my positive outlook. I thought I'd share a part of her eulogy, which was especially touching and is really applicable to all in this situation. This whole day really was a blessing for me, to help me through my grieving process and to celebrate the beautiful plan of happiness that we are all apart of.

Here's the excerpt she quoted:

In a beautiful lagoon one clear day, a fine sailing ship spreads brilliant, white canvass in a fresh morning breeze and sails smartly out to sea. We watch it slide away magnificently through the deep blue and gradually see her grow smaller and smaller as she nears the horizon. Finally, where the sea meets the sky, she slips silently from our sight. And someone standing near whispers, “There, she is gone.” Gone? Gone where? Gone from sight; that is all. She is still as large in mast and hull… She is still as able to carry her load. Still sails with that brilliant, white canvass full of the fresh morning breeze. And we can be sure that just as we say, “There, she is gone.”, there are others beyond the horizon who are shouting, “There! There she comes!”

Happy Printing

Today I was blessed to have a good experience with a copy place. I needed to get some drawings printed for an architecture project that I'm working on and it went so smoothly. I emailed the files, picked them up, and they were printed just how I wanted. I've had so many problems in the past that it was a breath of fresh air and a blessing to have everything go so smoothly.

Inside-Out French Braid

This may seem like a tiny, insignificant blessing, but I'm beginning to think that there is no such thing. Even the little things can really make a big difference in my day. Today I finally figured out how to do an inside-out french braid. I have had so much fun with Abbie's hair recently, and I love it even more because it is all new for me and I love to learn and try new things, but this inside-out french braid has been driving me crazy. I've watched tutorials and practiced with Abbie's hair, but it wasn't clicking... until today. Of course it was about 3/4s of the way through, but that last 1/4 actually looked good and I finally figured out what I was doing wrong. To me, that is a blessing, and I am grateful to have learned something new.

I am a Child of God

At church today for the intermediate hymn we sang "I am a Child of God," and it was so sweet to hear so many of the children singing along with the adults in the congregation about this simple truth. Abbie was doubly excited because it is hymn 301, which has the "Letter Three, Mom! Letter Three!" and because it is one of the hymns that she really knows. It was a sweet blessing and a tender moment to be singing along with her, side by side.

A Day For Me

Today was a day for me. Drew and the girls has almost and entire day's worth of Daddy-Daughter time and they all really sacrificed and planned their day around my schedule and the things that I wanted to accomplish. That really is a blessing to me. Sometimes I find myself begrudgingly adjusting my schedule for someone else (Drew) and I was genuinely grateful for the productive and fun day that I was able to have because of the adjustments made by him. And I think he had fun too, which was a great example for me. That is a blessing.

Nerf Gun

You know how sometimes we are counseled to just have more unscheduled and busy 'down time' with our families? Well, we tend to have a lot of that because we're not involved in too many activities (yet), but tonight we had some extra great family 'down time' that was really a blessing. It just brightened everyone's mood, we got to run and play together, and even though the dishes weren't being done or the floor wasn't being swept I was worry free and just enjoying the moment. And it was all because of a simple Nerf gun : ).

Heartbeat

I had a sweet moment with Abigail tonight that really was a blessing to me. After she was tucked in bed she wanted me to come in and cuddle her for a little bit and as I was snuggled up by her I could really hear her heartbeat. As I was listening I was reminded of the first time I heard that little heartbeat when I was only a few weeks pregnant, and now- four years later- here was that same little heart just beating away. Somehow I found myself loving her a little extra and holding her a little longer and thinking that that heart is only getting bigger and she's not going to be my little one for much longer. I love that girl. She is such a blessing, and I want to cherish every little heartbeat of her life.

Shopping

October is halfway over- and I have no blog posts : (. It's time to fill in some blanks, so brace yourself for backdated posts.

I'll start with today. Today definitely had ups and downs, but I must say that my biggest 'up' or blessing was a successful shopping trip. All you Moms know how blessed those few and far between wonder trips can be, and today was really great. I took both the girls and we strolled the aisles, picking out costume fabric and plenty of groceries. It was a wonderful time and truly a blessing to my day. Abigail is big enough to walk now around the store and not be confined to a cart, so there is always plenty of room for things to go awry, but she did so great, as did Lauren who is confined, but doesn't always like it. I love those little girls and I'm so blessed for them and so blessed especially when I feel like my hard work in teaching and training them pays off. Hooray for a good shopping trip!

A Great Grandpa

Today was a hard day. This morning my beloved Grandpa passed away. Somehow, even 'knowing it was coming' didn't make the actual thing any easier. It doesn't bring his sweet chuckle back or wipe away my tears or make me miss him any less. It doesn't help me explain it to my girls or to forget about his yester years or help me find comfort for my Mom. Knowing it is coming doesn't really help, but somehow, through it all I feel so blessed.

Blessed to have had so much time with a grandparent who has been such a big part of my life. Blessed to have been so near him these last couple years. Blessed to see him love my girls so much that it was like he was living to see them more. Blessed to have so many memories of a man who helped me really grow up. Blessed to have watched him care for our sweet Grandma after she always had cared for him. Blessed to know that he was always there and would always be happy to see me. Blessed.

I love my Grandpa. I think I am realizing how big a part of me he really is now that he is gone. He really is a Great Grandpa. I miss him.

Sunday High Fives

Today was a pretty great Sunday as far as Sundays go around here : ). Drew and I just might be getting this ridiculous afternoon schedule down. Drew went to church extra early this morning, so I brought the girls later, and on time! Come the third hour Sacrament Meeting they were somewhat rascally and by no means perfect, but at the end of the meeting we both realized that we hadn't taken either of them out...for discipline, for diaper changes, for naptime cuddles, for anything! And so we gave each other a [reverent] high five. Now that's a blessing.

A Grandpa Visit

Today we left our day pretty open and decided just to get out of the house and go do some exploring. Our first stop, as it commonly is, was Grandma's house, and I'm so glad that we got there when we did and were able to help my Mom and take her hurriedly over to Great Grandpas when she needed to get there. Grandpa woke up not feeling well at all today, and it was the worst I'd ever seen him. I haven't been too close (geographically) when my other grandparent's were dying, so it was hard for me to see him this way, but I'm so glad that I was able to.

The girls did great at staying busy and playing so we could stay for quite some time, and it was such a blessing to be there with family and to hold my Grandpa's sweet hand and talk to him like I always have. I'm not sure how much he was understanding; I know he tried to speak to me, but it was hard for me to understand. But I do know that he knows I was there, and I know that he knows I love him. I'm so glad that his little girls could be there- his little girls that he has loved watching grow up from little bundles to busy little 'grandmas' as he calls them, because they are always playing with his cane and walker. They were there; his big blue eyed Lauren and his talkative and smiling Abigail- happy and busy as always- to see him and give him hugs and kisses and just be there.

I am grateful that we left our day open so that we could visit Grandpa like we have so many times before, and I'm grateful that my little girls have been able to know and love their Great Grandpa for so long.

Chuck & Friends

Today Abigail was able to have a surprise morning playdate with friends who took her to Chuck E Cheese and then to Burger King for lunch. If this was Abbie's blessing blog I know she would be writing about that, because she loved it, and I love that she was able to love it! So I'm going to write about it too. It's not too often that my kids get to go to other friend's houses without Mom tagging along. This really isn't all that intentional, it just naturally doesn't seem to happen. I love having other kids over, and most parents have offered to have my kids over as well, but it just hasn't really come up or been needed. But today I needed it, and I am so grateful for a good friend who really made this day wonderful for Abigail and wonderful for me as well. I was able to meet with a client to do some architecture work, with Lauren in tow (who also did great!), but really it was such a blessing to not only know that Abbie was being taken care of, but that she was having the time of her life as well. For a parent, that is a big blessing.

Diving Board

Tonight I was blessed to see Abigail jump off the diving board all by herself! She has done this on two other occasions, but they coincidentally ended up being two of the nights I wasn't at swim class with her, so I was so thrilled to see her succeed and be there to support (and video tape) her. I love that little Abigail, who I know won't be little much longer, and I love being so involved in her life and sharing her little ups and downs. I am so glad that I got to be there tonight and I am so blessed for my Abbie.

Scripture Study

Is it obvious that I'm on a General Conference high? I love these semi-annual meetings! Since this recent conference Drew and I have decided to be more diligent in our couple scripture study, and so far it has already blessed me! Tonight we decided to study further one of our favorite conference talks from this last session and we chose President Uchtdorf's talk on hope. It really was doubly enriching watching it again and studying and comparing the different aspects that we each found applicable to our lives. I really liked when he quoted the author who said, "In the midst of winter, we find within us an invincible summer." There really is so much need for hope in the world today, and it really can sustain us in our trials. I am blessed for such great counsel and I am excited for more blessings I hope will come from our renewed scripture study time.

General Conference- 2

I really do love General Conference weekend. There are so many uplifting talks; I feel so inspired and motivated to be better in so many ways. Today was wonderful. I love to feel the Spirit in our home, and conference is a great way to do just that. I also feel so blessed for the wonderful communication systems that are in place today. It really is amazing to think of how many people are able to watch and listen to the same broadcast- all around the world- in conference centers, churches, homes; all gathered together to be uplifted and edified with the word of the Lord. It just really makes me think that this is what technology is all about. This is what it was created for- to help move the work of the Lord forward, and I'm excited to see what else it can do.

General Conference 1

Today we were able to enjoy General Conference from the comfort of our own home- our own bedroom even. This is truly a blessing, compared to traveling for miles to hear the prophet's voice, or wrestling kids in a stake center, or even just watching it at church. Technology really offers so many perks and blessings. The girls could take naps on their schedule while Drew and I enjoy conference, then catch up when they're done with some crayons and a cozy lap to sit on. I love General Conference, and I would really love to go and listen in person some day, but I also think that it is a wonderful blessing for a young family like us to enjoy it from the comfort of our own home.

Doctor Visit

Today I took Abigail in to the doctor. She has been feeling so sick- sometimes just reeling over in pain with a sore tummy. It just breaks my heart. So, today I took her in- the office experience was actually pretty miserable; she had to go to the bathroom with her poor diarrhea over and over and was literally yelling with pain while she was on the potty. And when she wasn't going to the bathroom I was holding her and rocking her or she was just rolling on the floor in pain in the waiting room. Not quite how I'd plan a day, but I am so grateful that we went nonetheless.

And the blessing is the advice the doctor told me, because it was practically the exact opposite of what we'd been doing. Of course that made me feel awful, that we've been doing almost everything for her absolutely wrong-her diet, the medicines to take, her fluids, etc., but I feel very blessed to have taken her in, to be humble enough to realize I've been doing things wrong, and to have a source to go to for information that is so valuable in keeping my little girl healthy. I am very grateful for that, and I pray she gets well soon.

Sweet Kisses

Today I was sick! This morning was pretty miserable- stomach pains that hurt really bad, throw up (which I hate!), diarrhea, fever, chills, and headache. I was a mess! It was one of those I just want to curl up on the bathroom floor moments, and in the midst of me being miserable my two little sweeties were just so concerned. It was really so sweet, and as I think back on the experience I am so grateful for those two little blessings that kept offering me kisses and hugs to make me all better (even though I didn't really want them to see me like that). What a blessing they were to me, and somehow, their little kisses did help me feel better. I am also grateful and so blessed for Drew, who took most the day off to wrangle those little blessings so I could sleep and rest. As I was laying in bed with him by me I just kept thinking as I was dozing, "Aah, I'm so glad you're here, I'm so glad you love me." What a little family of blessings I have.

Super Grandma

I can hear the old Ghostbuster's theme song running through my head, with the "Who ya gonna call? Ghostbusters!" and I find it so applicable to my crazy life, when things get thought, "Who ya gonna call? Super Grandma!" My Mom has come to my rescue so many times and today was another example and another blessing. She really can be the answer to my little prayers for help. Today Abbie was really sick, well it actually started in the middle of the night, so by morning she was feeling pretty bad, so Grandma came to the rescue- with fluids, crackers, a coloring book, and the girls favorite- balloons! Abbie practically didn't even seem sick once my Mom got here, she was too excited about Grandma coming and a new balloon. I am just so grateful for the many blessings that come to me through my family, and today, especially my Mom.

Happy Are We

Our ward chorister asked me to conduct the music in Sacrament Meeting today, and it ended up being difficult on some levels, but such a blessing on others. Abigail and Lauren did so well during the first two songs- they just sat with Daddy, snuggled Grandma, and visited Grandpa, but Abbie decided to perk up during the closing hymn. We were ending the meeting by singing "We are All Enlisted" and during the chorus there is the line: "Happy are we, happy are we!" Abigail, who had been singing her own little words throughout the song suddenly heard this and started singing- just about at the top of her lungs- the "Happy Birthday" song (which she continued through the remaining verses). I know that it was loud, because everyone in the congregation started cracking up and I had to work my hardest not to totally lose it while I was looking at her and leading the music. Try though I might to keep my composure and be a little upset with her, I just couldn't. It just seemed so perfect for us to be singing the words "Happy are we" and looking around and seeing it be so true. People were smiling as they were singing and it just seemed so right. Abigail can be quite a little rascal at times, but today she made me happy and many other people happy and I think that that is a blessing.

Women's Broadcast

I recently returned from the General Relief Society Meeting and our stake humanitarian activity. What an uplifting afternoon! I feel so motivated to be better and try harder when I hear the council of our sweet church leaders. I feel very blessed for the opportunity to attend, to serve with our humanitarian projects, and to be so inspired and uplifted by the messages given. I am excited for the transcripts of the meetings to be published so I can study the points that seemed so applicable to me better.

Remembering Financial Blessings

One of the purposes of this blog is to help me remember personal spiritual experiences so that I won't forget them or the related feelings. I've been talking to my Sunday School class recently about this- how it's so important to REMEMBER; we're asked to remember who we are, remember what we learn, remember to always take Christ's name upon us, remember to keep our covenants, etc.. This seems like such an easy concept, and yet it can be so hard with everything else that fills our lives. It is hard to remember everything, so I want to post this so that I will not forget it and how much the Lord blesses me.

Money has been a little tight recently, so this last fast Sunday both Drew and I fasted for the purpose to receive some financial blessings or to do better financially. We paid our full tithe and a generous fast offering and put our faith in the Lord that His challenge to 'prove me now herewith...if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pur you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it."

Here are some of the blessings- be they big or small- that we have received since then:

Drew's work hired me to do some consulting architecture work

Our dentist office that overcharged us finally reembursed our credit card

I called in and asked, and our credit card bill percentage rate was lowered

We received our escrow overage check from when we changed our homeowners policy

I was able to do all my grocery shopping close to our budget and using a gift card that we had purchased previously (aka no new credit charges for groceries)

Drew asked and his boss agreed to let us assemble and package some parts that Drew designed as a little ongoing side job

My aunt's dad hired me to do a little cleaning at my great-grandpa's house a couple times a week

I really believe that these are answers to our prayers and I want to remember that our prayers were answered. There are a couple other interesting things that I noticed from this experience that I also want to remember:

These were not the ways that I was expecting to be blessed or for our answers to come; but the Lord's ways are higher than our ways, and the blessings did come, just not as I might have suspected.

Each of these blessings required initiative and work on our part. Sometimes I think I just need to ask for something and then sit around and wait to be blessed, but I need to remember that it takes effort from me. If I didn't call my dentist over and over then we wouldn't have been reembursed; if Drew didn't take the initiative to ask his boss about assembling some parts at home then we wouldn't be doing it, and on and on. We asked and then were willing to work to help find our answers.

I am grateful for these blessings, and I know they come from the Lord.

Fun Visitors

Today we were able to have two sweet little visitors over to play and all four of the girls just had a wonderful time. I really feel blessed for this opportunity; Abigail has especially been missing some of her best friends who recently moved that used to always come over and play and so it was so nice to have some more little rascals running around this morning.

VT!

I have to say that I am so blessed with the women I visit teach- I just love them! I honestly love our visits and look forward to this special time every month to visit them in their homes. It's funny because I often see these women in our weekly outings and activities, but it's so great to get some quality, set-aside time to really see how they're doing and just slow down and talk about their needs and goals. I feel so blessed from these visits!

Today I also planned ahead and made quick little lunches for all the girls to munch on during the drive home, so my girls were able to go right to sleep and take good naps when we got back- see, more blessings!

A Good Girl Morning

Mondays are our busiest days, so they have the potential to be the best or the worst. And today was definitely one of the best! Right when I went in to tell the girls good morning I was excited for the day. They just seemed to be so happy and in a good mood. Abigail, especially just seemed to be so good all morning and I was really looking forward to the adventures of our busy day when it came time to head out the door. This was really a blessing, and even that little change changed me and my behavior and I found myself being more patient the few times when Abbie made mistakes and anxious to help her keep her good roll for the day going.

It made me wonder what affected the other more; it almost seemed like her being good made me more patient so it she was still 'good' when otherwise I might have thought she was being bad. I don't know if that makes sense to anyone else, but I guess I realized that my mood towards her behavior affected how I perceived the behavior, and I hope that I can just be more positive and patient in the future to keep my view of her 'good days' coming.

I also noticed how this was so evident right from the first "good mornings" I gave the girls. This morning I got up with Drew and was showered, dressed, had makeup done, and had read my scriptures before the girls woke up. Correlation?

I'll have to try this again tomorrow and see if it holds true : ).

A Nursery Girl

Today was Lauren's first day at nursery! I was practically skipping down the hall to Relief Society; I am so excited for her to be in a fun place that suits her needs better- and especially with her big sister. Abigail was so sweet holding hands with Lauren and showing her the way to nursery and where all the toys were, and just really looking out for her. Nursery is such a blessing! Every week I feel that and now it is just doubly so. I'm not sure if I'm supposed to be this excited about nursery, but I am! It has been a long nine months from when Lauren started walking to when she turned 1.5, and Drew and I are both excited to enjoy our adult meetings without having to chase after her. We love you Lauren! We hope you love nursery as much as we do! : ).

A Rough Morning

This morning was rough. I guess I woke up grouchy and things just didn't seem to be going my way. But, in the midst of my grown-up temper tantrum (which is basically what it was) I received two blessings. The first was from a dear friend who was literally an answer to an unasked prayer and the second was sweet little Lauren, so innocent and busy and totally unaware and unbothered by mom's foul mood.

My friend called at the perfect moment and could tell that I wasn't my normal self. Immediately she was able to offer the help that solved my frustrating problems and I was able to take a step back, calm down, and realize that that she was the blessing I needed. I even told her, " I think you're like my angel to help with this at this moment" and she really was.

Lauren, my other little blessing was as happy and busy as could be and, despite my bad mood, was focusing on her little world and how happy she could make it. All she wanted to do was paint with watercolors. She got her brush and her little cup and found the watercolors (which I accidentally left out yesterday) and was busy trying to paint. It was just such a sweet blessing to step back and realize that there was more going on- even just with me and the girls- than my own little problems, and I found myself apt to help her stay so happy. I pulled the easel into the kitchen so she could be by me while I worked and she was so sweet just watercoloring away. I found that to be a blessing.

Positive Sunglasses

Today I noticed an interesting thing; and I think it is a blessing in my life. While driving I couldn't help but notice just how gorgeous the sunset was. We've been having beautiful weather, big harvest moons, and breath-taking sunsets, and I found myself in awe of how beautiful this last week has been. Then, I took off my sunglasses to get a better look and the clouds just weren't as bright, the sun wasn't as radiant, and the whole effect was less moving. I returned the sunglasses and it was gorgeous again. I was pondering this and the thought came to me at how similar this scenario is to life.

Sometimes I find myself looking at situations or predicaments that I am in and they just seem average or dreary or unimportant or impossible, and it isn't until I put on my 'sunglasses' that I really can see the silver lining shining at me so clearly. Is this too nerdy? I don't know, but I found myself being comforted by the thought. And I think that sometimes I need to choose to see things differently- better- and then move forward from there. I guess it's kind of a optimistic self-awareness that I can think of by just putting my metaphorical sunglasses on.

A Sunday Walk

Today the weather was so beautiful and I thought I would take full advantage of it and walk to church with the girls (from my parents house- that would be a LONG walk from our house). : ) Drew and I are trying to save on gas, so we've been driving only one car to church on Sunday- even though he has to be there an hour and a half before church starts, so this made for a great time filler for me and the girlies.

I just think the walk was a blessing. My Dad went with me and it was great just to relax and talk to him- I actually wished we could have just kept walking and talking, the girls did great (aka fell asleep), and the weather was so enjoyable.

Sundays have been a struggle for us, especially with the afternoon time and reverse schedule, so it was good to find the silver lining in late church and enjoy a nice walk.

A Super Saturday

Today was our ward's Super Saturday craft day and it was so much fun! I actually had so much fun chatting and teaching that I didn't finish my crafts and had to bring them home to do. The whole event was just a big blessing to me- I've been needing some good girl time without kids, the food was great, and it was fun to be busy crafting. Drew is such a great daddy and took Abbie and Lauren to an Air Show at the Shelton Airport and had a fun afternoon with them- even in the middle of deer and elk season- and the girls loved their specially daddy-daughter outing.

An Evening of Blessings

Today was a long, busy day. Drew went elk hunting with a friend for two days and so the girls and I tried to stay busy while he was gone. We got up, played, went on a good run, played some more, and then decided to help take Melissa to the airport. So, we went to Great-Grandpa's for lunch and went up to the airport and back (through some bad traffic) just in time to eat dinner at Grandma's, run a few errands and get Abbie to the pool for the first day of swim lessons. After swim class we came home exhausted and the girls ate a quick snack and then I was all ready to get them in jammies, brush teeth, and go to bed.

But, Abbie, after her snack, went straight to the living room and got down the little temple we made and have been using for FHEs and said, "Okay Mom, time for family night!" and started waving her arm and singing 'I'm a Child of God.'

It was so sweet. I don't know how she even knew it was Monday night. Drew was gone so I was just going to plan our family night for another evening but she and Lauren were so excited about it that we did it tonight anyway. Abigail practically put on the whole thing- she led the music, said the prayers, and picked out the card from the temple activity for the lesson. I was just so struck that, even in our semi-chaotic lives, we seem to be doing something right and she is picking up on our efforts to have a good pattern of righteousness at home. What a blessing she is and what a blessing to me it was for her to take the initiative to have our family night before rushing off to bed.

After the girls were in bed, I received another blessing- Drew came home a day early! He totally startled me, because, despite my hopeful thinking that he might come home early, I had convinced myself that we wouldn't be able to and just was doing my evening chores when I saw a silhouette at the door window. I was so glad to have him back and to surprise us and it really put the icing on the cake for the evening.

Camping

Last night and today we went on a last minute camping trip, and it we had such a wonderful time! Our previous camping attempts have left us a little frustrated with the girls especially around bedtime, and we definitely want to be able to do something that we love so much with our girls. So, we tried again and it was so much better this time! The girls went to bed great- much later than last time- and we had a fun trip that left us wanting to go again. It really is just such a blessing that we even thought of this, acted on it, and had such a great time. I'm glad that we did.

A Little Big Girl

Lauren is growing up so fast! It just seems expedited by the fact that she's trying to keep up with her big sister, and I don't know where my little baby went. A few days ago we switched the girls' beds and Lauren started sleeping in a toddler bed too. She has done so amazing- really- I mean I am so grateful for this blessing, and I don't know if I deserve it. With any sort of transition or teaching I always brace myself for the worse and work through it, but she has done so well at staying in her bed all night. What a blessing! The first night she experimented a little, but I was right there peeking through the door and just popped her right back in bed a few times and last night she stayed in her bed for the entire night. She is just amazing! And really is becoming a big girl so fast.

A Supportive Race

Today was my triathlon, and I feel so blessed to have completed something that I've really been wanting to do and also to have it go so closely to how I wanted it to. Visualization is a great mental technique to prepare yourself for almost anything- and my race was right on with how I had envisioned it, (except for a few extra breaks on the run), but everything else- down to the fast, cold swim, the bike ride and having little Abbie and Lauren cheering for me, and seeing Drew when I rounded the final curve in the run. It really was so perfect, and I feel so blessed to be doing something-anything- and know that I will always have Drew and my girls (and my parents) right there cheering for me. I just wanted to finish the race and get back to them as fast as I could. I love my family and I am so blessed to have them support me in this and anything that I do.

A Smooth Sunday

Today Drew didn't have his normal meetings in the morning and it was such a blessing to get ready and go to church all together and a wonderful start to a smooth Sunday. Drew and I both taught Sunday school lessons and our classes went well; Abigail even came into mine and sang a song she had prepared for the kids- she did so great!, the girls were still tired come Sacrament Meeting, but all in all it was a great church block. The girls were both asleep before we got home and took good naps while Drew and I had a great talk, and after a yummy dinner Abbie, Lauren and I relaxed with some fun interpretive dancing to church music. Sundays have been a big challenge for us with our goofy church schedule so today was a great blessing.

Bike and Run

This morning we went on a family bike ride followed by a family run. My triathlon is coming up on Monday so this is kind of the last push in training before race day and it was great to do it all together. My legs don't seem to like running after biking, but hopefully they will get the hang of it, and I feel very blessed for Drew to make it a priority to go with me- and keep motivating me even when I just want to rest. It really is a blessing and it really does help. I always want to be better for him and for myself.

A Visiting Drive

One of my favorite parts about visiting teaching is the drive to and from our sisters' houses with my companion. I love all the kids just chattering away in the back, and I love the talks that we can have in the front with mostly no interruption. I just felt impressed today that these precious outings really do bless me more directly than I ever realized.

A Day at the Temple

Today I was able to attend the temple for hours. My mom offered to have a Grandma Day with the girls so I went with some sisters in the ward to the temple for the entire afternoon. It was so wonderful to serve in several ways and to just have the opportunity to go. I am very blessed for my Mom to let me be blessed for going to the house of the Lord.

Hugs from Jesus

I had several sweet moments today, but I think the best one was after Abigail's nap. Every day we snuggle when she wakes up and just talk together, and this afternoon when I asked her about any dreams she had she said, "Oh, I dreamed about Jesus. He loves me and he hugs me."

I just about melted. What a sweet dream and what a sweet blessing.

Friends and Family

I can feel the Lord's hand in my life by having our home constantly filled with friends and family. After church we had some friends over for dinner and dessert and then we had some family and friends over for games in the evening. It is just so great to be surrounded by people we love. It really is a blessing to me; it is a joy to fill our home with love and laughter.

A Big Girl

Today I feel very blessed for how well Abigail behaved at her friend's birthday party. She was able to keep her composure and still have a fun time even though she didn't get to do all of the fun things that a lot of her friends were doing (go swimming) despite the fact that she really really wanted to. I was just so impressed with her. Part of me felt a little sad for her because she genuinely wanted to go swim like all her friends, but I was still so happy that she was able to find other things to do and have a good time after I explained why I didn't want her to at that time. This little experience just really makes me think of the future and how she will be presented with so many similar situations where she will need to be the one to stand strong and maybe even alone for what she believes in. She just seems to be growing up....what a big girl.

For Drew

Today I once again feel very blessed for my sweet husband, and how he is always willing to put his schedule on hold for me and our girls. Tonight Drew and his buddies went golfing right after work and then we were thinking to maybe go on a family bike ride when he got back. He called after a couple hours when he would have normally been done with all nine holes only to say that they were only through six, but he knew that we might be expecting him so he wanted to check and see. I confirmed that we were ready and the girls were just getting in the bike trailer. He didn't even give me a chance to say anything else, he just said okay and that he'd be home in a sec.

And he was.

I feel so blessed for him and his love that shows unmistakably through his selfless actions. He got changed quickly and we had a great bike ride all together; a bike ride that was mostly just to help me get some miles in before my upcoming triathlon. What a blessing he is.

"Daughters of God"

I have felt the Lord's hand in my life in several ways today, but I'd like to focus and acknowledge the blessing that comes from following a little prompting to do something a little different today. Usually while the girls nap I turn on my favorite sitcom on the computer for some background noise while I do my various activities, but today I thought I'd go ahead and watch some General Conference broadcasts instead. I was instantly drawn to Daughters of God by Elder Ballard, and was soon reminded of how much I love and need the counsel that he gives in his great talk. One of the challenges of this life is remembering what we are taught or experience and I just really think it would be great to listen to this everyday so that I will never forget how special this young motherhood time is for me. I guess that's why we are asked to read the scriptures everyday- so we can remember! I am grateful for this little blessing boost that I just can't hear enough of.

Grandma

I am so grateful for Grandmas, and especially my Mom. She is so wonderful and is really such a blessing for me and my girls. She is just my super-hero, or maybe my super-power for how I sometimes get things done. Looking back, I don't know how I would do some things if it weren't for her always being willing to help. More than just helping though, I am especially blessed for how much she loves her grandkids. She can hardly go a day without seeing them! Recently she's been watching them quite a bit- and even when I think she'll definitely want a break for a few days with no rascally grandkids, she'll come over the next day just to surprise them and see them. I love it. I just love how much they love their Grandma and how much she loves them, and how I don't know what we would do without her. I am so blessed for a great Mom, who is such a great Grandma.

A Phone Call Motivator

Today I feel very blessed to be motivated by a great friend of mine. I know that as we submit our will to the Lord's that we can become instruments in His hands and help to answer the prayers and fufill the needs of others. Today I am blessed for my friend, Katie, doing that for me. As I was talking to her on the phone I brought up my aspiration to do some triathlons and how I haven't really done any yet this summer etc. She really motivated and inspired me to just buckle down and do it, and that is exactly what I needed to hear. After our conversation I felt so excited to go and do, and I'm very grateful for her filling in to give me that much needed nudge in the right direction. I can see the Lord's hand in letting me call and get the motivation I needed, without even expecting it.

Five Year Anniversary

Today Drew and I celebrated our five year anniversary. It is amazing how time flies. I know in the eternal perspective five years seems like just the blink of an eye, but I am so grateful for these past years and for the many challenges and blessings that Drew and I have experienced together. I am so blessed to be married to such an incredible man and so blessed that we can be together forever. I look forward to many more years to come. Tonight was great to get some time together and really talk and have fun without little rascals interrupting us. We went out to a great dinner, rode some go-carts, went to a movie, and had some wonderful Cold Stone before heading home. I love all of our date nights because it helps remind me of when we were first dating and falling in love, and tonight was extra special because it was in celebration of the commitment we made to each other and the Lord five years ago. I love you, Drew! I am so blessed to have you.

Home Again

Today I got back from my little 'mom vacation' and it is so great to be back. That's when you know a vacation of any kind has done it's job- when you have so much fun while you're there, but are so excited just to be back. The last bit of the train ride home I was getting so excited to see Drew and my girls again, and it was just picture perfect when I stepped off the train. They were all there waiting for me and we were just so excited to be together. I didn't want to put the girls down to get back in the car, I just wanted to hug and hold them there in the station. I am so blessed for a wonderful family, and I am so blessed to be home.

My Best Friend

I've been spending the last few days with my best friend, Jill, and I feel so blessed for this wonderful 'mom vacation' as I've been calling it and for some great times with a great friend. It was actually Drew's idea for me to get a little time away from the rigors of mommy life, and I am so blessed for him to be so empathetic to my needs, and to help me so that we can both be the best parenting team we can be. I remember talking to him and feeling so stressed, but now that I'm back in town with my girls and looking back, I dont' really remember why I was stressed- so I think my 'mom vacation' must have really worked to help relax and rejuvinate me : ).

Jill is my best friend in the entire world (for those of you thinking 'why isn't her husband her best friend?', don't worry, Drew is my 'king friend,' which is really just a different scaling system so I don't have ever use the term 'second-best friend' for Jill because, really- who wants to be a 'second-best friend'. So I have a king friend and a best friend. I digress...) As I was saying, Jill is my best friend in the entire world and it has been so great to spend a few days together. I am so blessed for her and our friendship (that no one else really seems to understand) and for the time we have laughing, reminissing, and looking forward to the future together. This little vacation was just so great; to sleep in, to stay up late, to play games only to win and then forget who wins once it's over, to shop only to make fun of the things in the store, and to just be there for each other. Yes, I am blessed for a best friend, and I am blessed for a king friend who lets me have a little vacation.

A Sealing

This morning Drew and I attended his friend, Clint's, sealing in the Portland Temple. Drew and I have decided that we love attending sealings; not just to support our friends and to feel the Spirit, but to hear all of the counsel and guidance that is given to the new couple. We just think of it like it is being given to us, and it's been so wonderful to really remember the covenants that we've made and to get a glimpse of this wonderful eternal progression that we are making together.

Naptime

Today I would like to acknowledge the Lord's hand in a tiny miracle that makes a big difference for me. Abigail and Lauren's friend, Allison, is spending some time with us today and we just had a wonderful time at the park and are now back for naptime/rest time. I knew that Allison doesn't really take naps, but today when we got back, she was so tired that I just laid her down in Abbie's bed with some books and a blanket. And now she, and my own two girls, are resting so nicely. To me this is a blessing that I've really come to notice when we have friends over. It seems that the Lord really extends His mercy upon me when I am serving others and let's me still get a little break in my day even when other kids aren't on the same schedule as mine. And I am grateful for it.

Forgiveness

Today I made a mistake and lost my patience with Abigail. That girl can be so sweet and then so sour; and it is sometimes hard for me to stay really patient and calm while she is not. But, I am so grateful for forgiveness. For the forgiveness that I can receive from my Father in Heaven, and for the sweet forgiveness that comes from Abbie so quickly. Even through this little trial today I am grateful for it, because Abbie and I both had a great talk afterwards and decided that we're both going to work a little harder to be a little better.

Girls Night In

Tonight Drew is with our local scout troop helping the boys earn their wilderness survival merit badges and so the girls and I had a fun girls night in. We ate greasy pizza, they took a long bath (no bubbles though, by request), and we watched part of Finding Nemo while I painted their toes. Tonight I am grateful for this one-on-one time that I had with each of them to do something a little bit special.

Drew is so great at making sure to have his daddy-daughter dates with the girls and get some good one-on-one time with them, and it seems like I've kind of let my girl time slide since I'm always with them, so it was just extra special and a big blessing for us to have just some fun girl time together this evening.

Fast Sunday

Today I feel very blessed for the opportunity to fast and for the blessings that come with this monthly Sunday. Today seemed to be a breath of fresh air as far as our Sundays have been: we were early to church, my lesson went well, the girls did great in all the meetings, two new babies were blessed, and we enjoyed a great family dinner at my parents house afterwards. All in all this was one of the best Sundays that I've had for awhile and it was extra great to be closer to the Spirit while fasting. I will galdly take any blessing that I can get- especially on our crazy Sundays, and I am very grateful for the ones received today : ).

Ccamping With Kids

Oh the ups and downs of camping with kids. There were definitely several times this weekend when Drew and I looked at each other, just wondering why we even brought those rascals with us, but then there were also sweet times when we wondered what we would ever do without them there. This camping trip really was a learning experience for us, and I think we'll handle bedtime a little differently next time we go, but it really was such a blessing to enjoy something that we love to do so much with our little girls who we love so much. It was so fun to see them play together in the tent and help tend the fire (from a distance) and do all of the fun outdoor activities with us. I am blessed for this fun, family opportunity and I really hope we are helping to create some great family memories for our girls. Abbie just kept saying, "this is fun camping" and I feel very blessed for that.

A Morning Workout

Today I feel blessed for how well Abigail and Lauren did at my morning workout. A friend of mine started up a mom's bootcamp kind of workout early in the morning twice a week where the moms workout and the kids all play. Well, the first one I attended didn't go so great- oh, my girls played, but it was mostly on me while I was trying to workout. I wasn't even sure if I should come again with the girls, but they got up so darn early this morning anyway that I decided to go for it : ). And they did much better. Abbie and her friend Addie played together the whole time and Lauren didn't start climbing all over me until the very end, and I look forward to even more progress next time. These morning can be such a blessing in so many ways- its a workout obviously, which is great, but it's also social for both me and the girls and it's a great way to enjoy some time outside early in the day. I look forward to more success in the weeks to come and am grateful for this blessing today.

Some Much Needed Playtime

I've been struggling recently with staying super positive with this whole parenting thing. Honestly, sometimes my girls just drive me crazy, and that in turn drives me even more crazy because I really want to be a great mom and to enjoy every minute of this journey. Tonight I feel so blessed to have some much needed fun, playtime with Abigail and Lauren that just really brought everything into perspective. I feel very blessed for that hour of kisses and hugs and wrestling and laughing that reminded me of how great these girls really are despite all of the troubles they sometimes give me. I love those girls and I love being a Mama, and I especially love the great moments of joy that come along- even if they seem a little bit farther between than I might choose. : )

A Prompted Visit

Today the girls and I stopped to check in on an old friend who has been having some health problems. It was so great to see her day brightened by my little rascals during our surprise visit. The blessing for me, though, has been seeing my girls getting to know and love this woman more and more over the last few months. It's so great to see them get to know other people-even if they don't see them that often- and to really remember them and interact with them when we visit. I really hope that through some of our random visits to different people they will continue to develop a love for others and for serving them. And today it was a blessing to see that empathy start to grow.

One Year Ago Today...

Lauren had her surgery on July 26th of last year. Today I just kept thinking about how blessed we are that her surgery went so well last year and for how well she has recovered. She has come so far and gone through so much in the time leading up to her surgery and in this last year following it. She really is such a big miracle for such a little girl. I just thought I would share a few photos of our sweet Lauren; we are so blessed to have her, and so blessed to have gone through this first journey with her. We have had some big trials, but the sweet blessings that have followed outweigh them.

Lauren, right before her surgery and ready to go home from the hospital

Lauren, right after she was born and then now that she's a big girl with a new smile

A Little Nudge

It seems that I've recently been struggling with a lot of the simple, little things. Sometimes the easy things are the hardest for me because they just seem so easy that I end up putting them off or disregard them altogether. Aah! And then it turns out that the little things really do make a big difference, and the answer to my different struggles are right in front of my face, and so simple! Tonight Drew finally just gave me the much needed nudge to just go and do. I am blessed for this, because I did and I know that if I keep it up it will make a difference in my life, even though it may be a little thing to do.

A Day at Home

After our two long weekends away it's been hard to get back in the swing of things so this morning I was all ready to get us back to our normal schedule with a morning filled with grocery shopping, library class, and a visit to grandma's house, but as the girls were excitedly playing with their own toys and having fun together after breakfast I just felt prompted to stay put and enjoy a simple day at home. I am glad that we did. Sometimes too much go-go-go can wear a person out, let alone little toddlers, and it was so nice just to have a relaxing day and really let me and the girls get rejuvinated from our trips. I feel blessed to be inspired to 'just say no' to a super busy life and to be able to reschedule our activities for different times so we could just play together at home.

Home Again

Can I just say that there is truly no place like home. Tonight, at 11:30pm we finally returned home. The drive seemed so long, but the girls were actually quite great, and that is what I am so thankful for. Drew and I came up with some interesting ways to keep them happy in their back seats and they did much better this week than last week despite the late hour of departure. Long drives are always such a burden to me that I dread for the hours preceding them, and so I always feel so blessed and thankful to make it home and be safe and sane when we arrive.

A Sealing

Attending the temple always seems to bring many blessings and today was especially so. It was so great to serve and be there with family. Families are really what it's all about and today gave me a little glimpse into what life in the hereafter might be like.

I feel so blessed that we have the opportunity to have forever families that extend beyond 'until death do we part' and it was such a blessing to witness the sealing of the Haynie family this morning. The more I've gotten to know Jenna and Kevan the more I love them and I am so happy for them and the choices that they have made to make it to today. I am so excited for their new baby who will now be born in the covenant and for sweet Zariah who is now sealed to them as if she was.

It was also a blessing for me just to be reminded of the covenant made and counsel given when sealed. It really helps me and Drew to try a little bit harder and do a little bit better at loving each other and raising up our little sweethearts in righteousness. I am so grateful for the chance to join Jenna and Kevan in the temple today. I am blessed.

Wholesome Recreation

Today was such a fun-filled day. We went rock climbing in the morning and boating in the evening. I've just noticed recently how grateful I am for the fun, wholesome recreational activities that we have the opportunity of doing together as a family. Life last summer was definitely harder; we still had fun together, but I am just extra grateful and feel extra blessed for the opportunities we have this year now that Lauren's surgery is behind us and she and Abigail are a little bit older. I know some people mention that when they have kids their lives just seem to stop. Drew and I have always tried hard to make sure that our kids aren't the center of our lives, but a great part of them and that we can each have joy individually and together, and today I really feel blessed for that.

Six Months Later

Today marks six months from the day that I started this special kind of blog, and while I haven't been the best at recording blessings for every single day since then, I have definitely felt the difference in awknowledging the Lord's hand in my day to day life. I feel greatly blessed for the last six months- I can't believe how fast they have gone, and as I look forward to the next six I hope to rely more and more on the Lord and notice His blessings in all that I do.

Insurance Budget

Drew and I... okay, mostly me, have been shopping around for a new insurance company for all of our home, auto, and life policies, and tonight we are officially on board with a local agent with a great company. The best part is that we are getting better coverage on our home and auto and new life insurance policies for only slightly more than we were paying before for less coverage on only home and auto. This was my goal from the start: to have everything at one place, with an actual agent not a 1-800 number and to actually get a good deal and great coverage. Hooray! I feel very blessed that we have insurance- it really is a security and preparation and helps me feel at ease in case anything were to ever happen to us, and I feel extra blessed that we are getting the best rates that we can with a company and agent that we trust.