It Is Upon Us

Christmas is upon us our favortie time of year.
Have a Happy Holiday and peace throughout the year.

Those are the lyrics to a song I used to sing in elementary school. And the words ring true. The weather has turned bitter cold and the snow is glowing white. I love the change of attitude that this time of year holds. Yes, life is so busy. Cooking, baking, decorating, caroling, partying, birthdays, it all makes life hectic.

And I love it.

I love that we spend the extra time to remember those whom we love most. I love that everyone goes out of their way to give to those who have nothing. I love sitting in the soft glow of the lights of the Christmas tree, in perfect silence of the snow falling, just to ponder the birth of our Savior. I love it all.

So, even though I am stressed and don't get to everything on my list, deep down inside I am truly happy. I love this time of year. It is magical.

I love all of the traditions. For Thanksgiving we had lunch with the Millers in Cedar. Then we made the trek to Salt Lake to have dinner with my family. Both meals were delicious. Friday morning my mom and I went out Black Friday shopping. We got some great deals, not much traffic or choas while shopping so we had a lot of fun. Saturday we go to the cemetary and decorate the tree near my brother's and great grandmother's sites. Then we all went out for lunch at Hires. Yummy!

So, you might be asking why birthdays made my list of business of the holidays. Well, lets start the beginning of November. Mason, Matthew, Ben, Nate, Matt, Papa, Merica, Grandma Mary, Logan, Dave, Kailey, Alean. Throw in the holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, Boxing Day [there is a Canadian in my family so this holiday DOES count], and New Years Eve) and we have more party days than not.

Well, that starts the catch-up of blog writing. Maybe when I have a moment I will dump pictures onto the computer and show you all a few. Until then, remember...
the magic of Christmas is upon us.

Thankful Moment Day 21

I am sure all of you have had those moments when you are laughing about something so stupid, that is really isn't funny but you laugh anyway. I have a lot of those moments with my little sister. She cracks me up! So does my big sister sometimes. I remember when she was in high school (so I was in junior high) we were home and she called us all into the kitchen. She was going off about how we needed to get the house cleaned up before our mom got home. And I quote:

"If we each work for like 5 minutes then it will be so clean. It will be so fun!"

Yeah, right. Cleaning fun? Then it wasn't funny but now we laugh about it all the time. It has become an inside joke for all of us. I am glad to have such wonderful sisters around me.

Thankful Moment Day 20

I used to be a morning person. But now I sleep in until 7:30 as much as possible. I love that most mornings the kids jump in bed with us and we all just sit and snuggle, giggle and have fun. We have been doing this since Spencer was just a few months old. This is one of my favorite traditions. I hope it is one that we keep up until we are old and grey. I want to hear about dates when they are older, school friends, hopes, dreams, etc.

Thankful Moment Day 19

I am so thankful to live in a day where there are so many things that make life easier. Microwave, tv, computer, cell phones. I love to call my parents and let Spencer talk to them. He loves to talk to Nanny and Papa, telling them what he has been up to, to ask them if he can come to their house, etc. He always tells them "I love you." then kisses the phone the acts like he is getting a hug back from them. It is the cutest look. Yep. I love my cell phone and how close it makes Nanny and Papa.

Thankful Moment Day 18

I loved serving in Young Womens for so long. The girls taught me so much. One of my favorite activities throughout my four years was when we took the girls and young men to the temple open house at the Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple. While sitting in the Celestial Room I had two girls promise that they would do whatever it takes to get married in the temple. I was so proud of their choice and determination to make such a worthwhile goal. I love my girls!

Thankful Moments Day 17

The other night Mark came home late. The kids and I were playing when he walked in. Katherine immediately squealed "DAD!" and got to him as fast as she could. I am so thankful that my children love their dad so much. Katherine is such a daddy's girl. She will sleep through the night more often when he puts her down at night, she loves to have dad feed her, she loves to have dad tickle her. I love that my kids have such a great relationship with their father.

Thankful Moment Day 16

I am so thankful to be an American. I have traveled to at least a dozen different countries. Some of them have great food, beautiful scenery, etc but none of them compare to The United States of America. I remember one trip I was on when a girl came up to me and asked me if I knew how lucky I was to be an American. That really made me want to learn more about my country.
When 9/11 happened I was in high school. I remember the feeling at school that day. My seminary teacher taught about how the USA was taught by ancient prophets in the scriptures. But what really changed me was the next morning in my US History class. My teacher taught us about when she worked in Washington DC, what we needed to do as the "next generation" and how what had happened would forever change our lives. Then and there was when I decided I would be involved in my country. Whether supporting my president, troops, local leaders; voting; going to political meetings; etc. I would be involved.
Well, all of that has and is taking place. I am more involved in politics than I ever dreamed. I know that I can make a difference. I also know that it is important to respect others and their political views because that is what this country is about. I am thankful to my family and friends who are willing to stand up for what they believe in about this country. I am thankful to live in a land where I can worship freely. I am thankful to my ancestors who had the courage to come to a strange new land to make their family life better. I am proud to be of such a heritage.

My Holiday List

My friend made a Fall List of things she wanted to do during the fall. I thought it was such a great idea that I have to copy her (Thanks Michelle!) My list is going to be a Holiday List so I have until the New Year to do these things.

1. Make sugar cookies. My mom always does Christmas sugar cookies so I am thinking about doing Thanksgiving ones at my house.

2. Give neighbors Christmas gifts. (Maybe some sugar cookies?)

3. Drive around to look at Christmas lights.

4. Take Spencer caroling.

5. Make a handmade gift for Spencer.

6. Make a handmade gift for Katherine. (Yes, each gift counts as a seperate to do.)

7. Catch up Katherine's scrapbook by Christmas. I had Spencer's caught up by his birthday. Since their birthdays are 2 weeks apart I get scrapped out (plus we finished our house then too). So, Christmas it will be.

8. Take the kids to see Santa.

9. Make a snowman. As Spencer would say "With a carrot nose."

10. Work on my recipe box.

11. Do an angel tree gift.

12. Get into an exercise groove.

13. Throw the best 70th birthday party )for my mother in law) ever. Ideas?

14. Sit and listen to Chirstmas music by the fire with drinking cocoa.

15. Go to temple square.

Thankful Moment Day 15

I couldn't do a thankful moments list without mentioning my job. I do enjoy my job. Mark and I are self employed; we own a lighting store. I get to spend the day with my husband and kids (when they aren't in school or playing at Grandma Mary's). I also love that I get to meet new people on a daily basis and help them create their homes. I work hard but get lots of things back from my job that do not have a monetary value. Don't get me wrong, there are days where work stinks and I don't want to get out of bed just to go to work. But overall my job is a fulfilling part of my life.

Thankful Moment Day 14

I love to go camping. I remember going fishing 1 night. I got tired on the boat so my dad told me to lay down and go to sleep. I remember waking up and not knowing where I was. But i knew I was ok because my dad was there. I always feel peaceful when I go camping.

Thankful Moment Day 13

Yesterday I had the opportunity to watch my neice be baptized. It made me thankful for the choice I made to do the same. I am also thankful that I get to renew and remember my covenants every Sunday when I take the sacrament.

Thankful Moment Day 12

I am thankful for my talents. I don't get to use all ofy talents all the time. But I have learned for everything there is a season. When i was younger I had the opportunity to travel with my dance group Clog America. So many great memories are from my dancing/traveling days. But one I am particularly thankful for is when i got to talk with one of our tour guides about the gospel. She and i have kept in contact over the years. She has become a close friend and i hope that someday she will accept the gospel.

Thankful Moment Day 11

I am so thankful for seminary. I remember one day in particular when I gained my testimony about the atomement. We were learning about christ's visit to the Americas after the resurrection. After the lesson we had a testimony meeting, but no one was getting up. Then my teacher, brother Taylor called on me to share mine. As I stood the spirit literally warmed my soul. I knew then that the atonement weasel real.
That was such an awesome experience for me and i think about it all the time.

Thankful Moment Day 10

I think it is time to be thankful for my sweet girl. The morning Katherine was born went fast. From the time my water broke (actually it burst across the room) till she was in my arms was NINE minutes. I am so thankful she came so fast. We have loved her every minute since then. I love that she sings Twinkle Twinkle Little Star by herself. I love that she gives me hugs and kisses. I love my baby girl!
Sorry no pictures. I am doing this from my phone since my internet at work is down. When it gets fixed I will put a picture up.

Thankful Moment Day 9

Mark loves being a daddy. And he is a great dad. He is so willing to help me with the kids. From putting them down at night to playing with them he is so involved in their lives. Katherine loves her daddy (and vocalizes that daily). Spencer constantly tells me when he grows up he wants to be like dad. I am so thankful to have such a partner in life. I love you babe!

Thankful Moment Day 8

Another moment of my mom, but this time it isn't about me, really. I remember when my brother was serving his mission in the Philippines my mom would write to him every week. I remember waking up at like 4:30 (I had cheer leading before school at 6) and finding my mom at the kitchen counter with several hand written pages for Elder Adams many times. Her dedication helped me learn that raising a son who is willing to serve a mission does not end once he has left. It means continually supporting him while he is gone.

My mom is a tireless example of selfless service. As shown in this picture of her and my sister Steph. She was so helpful for all of us girls with our dresses on our wedding days. She does so much for others. I bet all of you who read this have been blessed by her service. If you have leave a comment so you can have a thankful moment too.

Thankful Moment Day 7

This is a picture of all the boys of the family on Spencer's blessing day. My Dad has always been there for me. With advice, jokes, a hug, a priesthood blessing, whatever I needed. One thing that has always stuck out about my dad is how caring he is. I remember one Sunday I was emotional (teenage years seem to do that to you). I mean crying for no reason, emotional. My dad looked at me, reached in his pocket, and handed me a handkerchief. That was all it took to know that my dad loved me. Thanks Dad for always being at the ready for any of our emotional moments at church and more! I love you!

Thankful Moment Day 6

I was always told growing up that I have the best parents. I always agreed. My mom and dad are the best. But they are even better grandparents. My kids love their Nanny and Papa. And so do I. I can't really chose one moment to be thankful for because there are so many. I am just thankful that we get to make so many moments.

Thankful Moments Day 5

Before I was a mommy my sisters would let me hold their little ones. This was Easter 2007 and Carter bud and Matt were both so cute and chubby back then. Who knew that a skinny Spencer boy could be any cuter than those two?

Thankful Moment Day 4

My first concert. New Kids On The Block. So much fun and the first girls night out that I can remember. I am sure we all have a first fun concert night, mine was with my mom and older sister. Thanks girls!

Thankful Moment Day 3

Every year on Christmas Eve we all go to my Grandma Adams house for dinner and family presents. The traditions have slightly changed as we have added to the troops. From fighting if you are still young enough to sit at the kid table, fun crafts, exchange of "secret" gifts, white elephant gifts, to special gifts of 40 year old shirts. Some of my favorite memories are with my GGW! This is a picture of Mark's first Christmas Eve at Grandma's house.

Thankful Moment Day 2

This is a picture from one week before Spencer was born. We put the backyard in that day. Roughly 7,000 square feet of sod. I remember thinking I was tired and proud of what we accomplished that day. We couldn't have done it without all of the help from our family though.
You may be asking why I am thankful for that moment. We absolutly love the backyard! We look at it everyday and dream about finishing the front yard, garden, etc.

A Month of Moments

So, last year I did Thankful Thursdays where I told of things I was thankful for. It really helped me get into the spirit of Thanksgiving and made it much more meaningful. This year I wanted to do something again. So, I am going to do a memory a day that makes me laugh, cry or just remember the good things that I have been a part of.

Day one of course has to be about Spencer. Because, lets face it, he has given us some funny moments. This is when he was about a year old. It seemed everytime I turned around he would make his way to the bathroom at work and start pulling off toliet paper or scrubbing the toilet.
Notice he is wearing different clothes so these are two seperate occassions. It was not so fun dealing with his fascination at the time but now I look back and do enjoy.

A Tribute

My life is a tribute to families. I am a living testiment that families are what make us. This week I have reflected so much on what makes me so thankful for my family and why I have such a great family. Last weekend I went on a Girls Weekend with my mom and three sisters. We had such a blast and get along so well. Thanks girls! But, that would not have been possible without the guys taking care of the children. Thanks guys!
But this guy is the reason we all turned out so well. This is my brother Matt. He left this world 21 years ago this week. It is hard to believe it has been that long because I remember that day. We all do. And we all remember different things about Matt. We all grieve his death in different ways too. But, through it all, we all know that because of his death we pulled together as a family.

We know that families can be together forever.

We knew that we had to work to make our family great. So, we looked out for each other a little more. We did things for each other because we knew it was the little moments that make the difference. We were kinder to one another. All of the love and support I had growing up and continue to have are so generously given because that is what Matt taught us.
But my family is more than just watching out for each other. New traditions have started. This picture shows one of my favorites. Every year the Saturday after Thanksgiving we get together and decorate the tree by Matt's grave. When we started 21 years ago my Dad was taller than the tree. But, as you can see from this picture in 2008, the tree has grown. We all have grown. As has our family. 3 brother in laws, 1 sister in law, 5 boys, 2 girls and a girl on the way (Congartulations Tim and Shannon). How thankful I am that I have a family. That they love me.
More importantly, that I get to love them.

My Kids Are My Life

I never thought I would be such a cliche mom. Okay, maybe I did a little but my children are my life. I would stay in bed all day if I didn't have them depending on me. They are the biggest reasons why I laugh, cry, get frustrated and thank my Heavenly Father for my blessings.
Spencer is starting to be independent on just about everything, except bedtime. He loves to help dad work on the new house. He also loves to say "I won't do it ANY more." He loves to eat yogurt lately. I can't keep it in stock at our house it seems. He always wants his "friends" (his cousins, Mason or Merica) to come over or to go to their homes to play. He also has this thing for knowing what day it is and knowing where everyone is or what they are doing on that day. Some of the fun things he has said lately include:
"Mom, you can just drop me and Kafferine off at Grandma's. Okay?" He likes to say her name that way and half the time I find myself quoting him.

"My shoes are getting too big because I am growing up." He really meant small.

"I don't need a bath. Daddy took a shower this morning."

Two mornings ago Spencer woke up before Mark or I. He went straight out to the new house looking for us. I woke up to the sound of him crying on the back patio. We brought him in our room. He said "You are supposed to be in the shed house mom and dad. I went there to find you and you weren't there." I asked him "Did you look in my room first?" "No cuz you are always in the shed when I go to sleep so you should still be there." I think Mark and I are working too much.

Another funny story about Spencer. I went and picked the kids up from Grandma's. Spencer was telling me that he watched movies about Mater. I asked Mater the truck? He said "Mom, Mater isn't a truck he is a car." I said but he tows other cars so he is a tow truck. Spencer "No. Mom. Mater is a car. He is a tow car. Actually he is a tow Mater." I just about drove off the road laughing so hard.

Spencer has been so good with Katherine lately. He even asks if she can play with him in his room. He likes to help push her in her swing on the swingset. Whenever they are in the house and she starts crying he runs to come and tell me "Mom, Kafferine needs you."

Katherine seems to have blossomed from baby to toddler. This picture was on her birthday in her cute jean skirt. We finally got her to take a bottle just on Saturday. I decided 13 months was old enough to quit treating her like a baby and just make her figure out a bottle. She loves it because she doesn't have to wait for 20 minutes to eat all the milk she wants. She downs an 8 oz bottle in about 4 minutes or less. Mark is loving being able to hold her while she drinks her milk. He even admitted to missing helping feed the baby. "She is all yours babe. I did full time feeding for 13 months. You turn."

Another reason she seems so big to me: she is wearing the same size diaper that Spencer was wearing one year ago when he potty trained. I can't believe it. Either he is a squirt or she is a chunk. I tried having her sit on the potty and she just screamed. She will not be easy to potty train like Spencer was. Katherine's vocabulary is growing too. She can say or sign: Dad, mom, Spencer, milk, socks, dog, sleep, food, more, all done, Grandma, hi, and thank you. She also loves to wav bye bye and blow kisses.

Katherine loves the swing set. LOVES IT. She will sit in there for a couple of hours while we work in the house. As long as I give her a push every ten minutes or so. She has even fallen asleep in the swing for a quick nap a few times. She likes anyone who will give her a push or a twist in her swing.

Yesterday she woke up with a fever and cuddled literally all day. I was up to the task because it was freezing here and she kept me warm. She slept through most of the night, woke up early and cried for Mark and I to hold her. So we obliged her sobs for about an hour this morning. She still isn't feeling well but I think she just needs to sleep/cuddle this bug off.

Well, that is enough bragging, for now. I hope everyone has a good weekend. We are putting finishing touches on the shed. Literally finish trim, touch up paint, grout in our tile. I will take some good pictures and post them on Monday or Tuesday. Until then.

We Are Moving... Again

Well, Mark finally convinced me that we should move into the shed. Okay. So we decided a few weeks ago that we would actually move. My sister teased me that we can't build a home or apartment without testing to make sure it is liveable. Seriously. This will be our fifth (that is 5 people!) in less than two years. Do the math! Spencer has not had one Christmas in the same house once.

But, as bad as I make that sound, I am excited. Smaller quarters means less cleaning and more time being a mommy and wife. It means cozy nights snuggled by the fire, more home cooked meals (they are sparse these days), more reading (with kids and for myself) and it means I get to decorate my new house. So, let me brag a little about my new house.

This barn style 3 bedroom 2 bath is totally custom. I mean, it literally was built to look like a barn on the outside. But inside, it is a beautiful home. We designed the plan ourselves, with a little help and insight from Ben, my brother in law (Thanks Ben!). The main floor is the living room and kitchen, bathroom, laundry, and 2 bedrooms for the kids. Upstairs is a loft which will be my craft haven, a book nook for Spencer (but I think all of us will use it), and the master bedroom and bathroom. It isn't quite 1300 square feet.

Mark has helped or done every bit of work. From preparing the plans, moving dirt, pouring concrete, building walls, hand stacking the roof, rough plumbing and electrical, drywall (we hired out the drywall but we were short 2 sheets so Mark hung those), baseboard, casing, doors, painting (we have lots of colors because we used leftovers from all of our various projects), flooring (I think this is my favorite part), cabinets, finish plumbing and electrical, running power, water and sewer to and from the shed, and putting in a fireplace. I have been helping a lot as well. Holding down the lighting store has been my biggest contribution. But after work I help clean hand tools to Mark, put in door handles or cabinet hardware, figure out what furniture is going where, help wire, etc. We are about 2 weeks from being totally finished with the house. We have been putting in long hours and a lot of late nights.

The biggest blessing is that we found a family to rent our house. We found them in less than two days! Two Days!! Makes me wonder if I should have listed it for more? No, they are just an answer to many prayers. They have 3 children and are such nice people. They will be moving in November 1. I have a ton of moving and cleaning to do by then. But, I know that we are being blessed because we are moving forward with faith.

Speaking of faith, I loved General Conference! I was so inspired and uplifted by the messages of our leaders. I truly am thankful to God for a living prophet to guide me through these days. So, here is my shout out to all of the time and preperation that went into the beautiful messages and music. THANK YOU!!!

And, with the coming change comes a change in weather. What is it about fall that we all seem to love and hate at the same time? I love the beautiful colors and cooler temperatures. I love the smell of rain and how it seems to give the whole earth a bath. But, I hate that it means freezing temperatures are coming and darkness gets more daytime than it should. At least my kids are enjoying their swing set. Katherine will sit in her airplane seat for at least 2 hours as long as you give her a push once in a while.

Okay. Enough of me blabbing. What changes are you excited for that are coming up in your lives? Let me know. Love to all my friends and family who read this.

So Emotional

This is a post that I have wanted to write but I am not sure how. Every time I have thought about writing it I start getting emotional. So, please be patient. And if you don't want to read my babblings that is okay too.
When Mark and I moved into our house 4 years ago he immediately got called to serve in young mens in our ward. My calling came 3 months later to serve in the young womens. I was so excited and scared. I wasn't much older than the girls I would be teaching, the laurels (16-18 year olds). I was 22 at the time. My young women leaders had shaped me into the woman I am and I knew I could do the same. How quickly I realized that they would be teaching me. I have been to 4 girls camps, temple trips, 5 youth conference trips, firesides, everything.
Well, almost 4 years later, 5 presidencies later, and 2 of my own children later I have been released from serving in Young Womens.

I cry every time I say that.

They truly have become such a big part of my life that I feel like part of me is missing. Part of my heart aches to be with them. Even though I was ready to be released and I had been inspired by the Holy Ghost that it was time it is still so hard for me. I have not had a day go by that I don't think about my girls. Some of them I consider to be such good friends. I know that they will be strong women in this world. They are capable of doing so much good. They have made me a better person.
Every once in a while I still shed a tear. Spencer has caught me on several occasions and keeps asking "Are you sure your ok mommy?" I keep telling him I will be. At least I get hugs without asking from my sweet boy. Maybe I should cry more often ;) I hope that as I move forward to my next calling, whenever and whatever comes, that I will be up to the challenge. For now, I will try to sit in Relief Society and soak in being spiritually fed from new people. Three weeks before I got released this quote was in the lesson I gave.

"I believe in revelation—and so do you—and I believe that the Lord is getting acquainted with you right now. You missionaries that are preparing to go on your mission, do not let one day go by on your mission when you do not demonstrate to the Lord that you are reliable, that you are trustworthy, that you are dedicated, that you are committed, that you are on his side, for he is getting acquainted with the young men and the young women of this Church today. … Every day of your life he gets acquainted. Then, after he has watched you and after you have demonstrated your faithfulness by your service and by your ability to keep your priorities straight in your life, along comes a need for a high councilor, a Primary president, a Relief Society president, a bishop, or a stake president; and the Lord makes it known to the responsible priesthood leader that you are ready because you have lived up to the commitments and promises that you made before you were ever born."
~M. Russell Ballard

That quote hit my heart strings. I knew things were going to change soon. I knew that I had some things to work on and that quote said exactly what I needed. I know that the Lord expects me to be preparing. To demonstrate my faith. To keep my priorities straight. So, this is me resolving to be better. To do better.

I'm Alive

The founder of the scrapbooking company I work for answered the following question:

"I love to scrapbook and preserve my family's memories, but it seems like I am always behind. Seriously, I take way too many pictures and still have 5+ years of events to scrap. I don't scrap every picture or every event, but still there are so many events and fun memories I want to capture. How do I do it? Are your scrapbooks up to date and current? If so, what is your secret?"

This is the last paragraph of her answer:

"Mostly, rather than feeling overwhelmed by lots of unscrapbooked photos, I feel happy knowing I have them: beautiful pictures, beautiful memories, all waiting for me to relive during the creative process. Having many photos to scrapbook doesn't mean I'm behind, it means I'm ALIVE."

Amen Jeanette! Thank you for having the right words that describe my life. And to prove I am alive...






How thankful I am to have such a beautiful family. I am truly blessed.

On a side note: we will be painting our shed this weekend. Pictures to come.

Mark is Not Allowed

This past weekend was a BLAST! We went up to my parents in Salt Lake for our annual Staycation Vacation. It was relaxed but full of fun. Of course I left all packing until Friday morning because last Thursday was all about Spencer turning THREE! More on that when I upload my pictures. Thursday night at 10:30 I started running 3 loads of laundry (I get up with Katherine anyways three times a night). Friday morning I woke up at 6:30 and started folding. (Side note: why is laundry such a necessary evil? I need to invent something that cleans your clothes while they hang in your closet) Mark got up 10 minutes before he had to leave for school (men.) and said his classes were getting out early so he would come home and put everything in the car and finish packing if I would get him a list. So I did just that and he was the hero.

When I got to work I emailed him a detailed list. Said list included things like: Katherine's diapers, swim diapers, swimsuit, socks, my glasses, Spencer's hat, so on and so forth. (I hadn't hardly packed for Katherine because she was still sleeping when I left for work). Details. I am so detailed when it comes to my lists of what I need for a weekend away from home (even though going to my parents is like a second home.). Mark got out of class, went home, packed and came to work to pick me up.

I thought to ask "did you remember Katherine's swimsuit?"
Mark "No. I don't know where you keep them."
Me "Couldn't you call to ask me?"
Mark "She doesn't need a swimsuit."
Me "what about her socks?"
Mark "she will be ok."

After several more rounds of did you get this and NO responses I rushed out the door extremely upset. If I put something on the list, I want it with us. Four days of play with cousins, one family picture session (the first since Spencer was 1), swim party, birthday party, etc all needed supplies from our house. We probably don't need everything I take but you never know. It is a really good thing I went home too because when I opened the door the first thing I saw (besides piles of laundry that got folded and not put away) was the bag I packed with his clothes and my clothes. He would have been in the dog house all weekend if I hadn't had my clothes, shower items, make-up, shoes, cell phone charger and everything else that was in that bag.

So, Mark is not allowed to pack for trips. Period. Never again. He has never packed well. For our wedding, he forgot church shoes. For our honeymoon he didn't pack any clothes (shopping spree for him). His first campout with Spencer, no clothes for himself; only clothes for Spencer because I packed Spencer's bag. Nope. Mark is Not Allowed to pack.

Side note: he also is not allowed for the girls weekend I am planning with my sisters and mom in October. Neither are my kids. Either one. I am super excited! First girls weekend ever!

I Finished... Finally

I have been working with the Young Women (ages 12 to 18) in my ward (church) for almost four years. These girls are MY girls in every sense of the word. They come to me with problems, for help with homework when their parents aren't around, we laugh, cry, and dream together.

In Young Womens there is a program called Personal Progress where we have to complete 6 experiences and 1 project for each of the 8 Young Women values. The projects have to take at least 10 hours to complete and the experiences can take anywhere from an hour to three weeks of working on a goal. Some of the goals include help plan and prepare meals for your family for two weeks, develop a habit of scripture study for 3 weeks, notice acts of service and give thanks for 3 weeks, read articles on the divine nature of women, etc. When you complete the program you get a Young Womanhood Medallion. As a young woman I earned my medallion.As a leader we have the opportunity to earn the award just like the young women. It takes a lot longer as an adult to accomplish these goals. I think it took my this long because I am just too stinking busy. But, last night I had my interview with the Bishop and I earned my medallion. In a couple of weeks I will recieve it. It was such a blessing to redo this program. I have learned so much about who I am and who I can become. I have a deeper and stronger testimony that Heavenly Father loves me and watches over me. How thankful I am for my girls encouragement to complete Personal Progress, again.

Dreams for the Kids

I just found this idea and I am in LOVE! How fun would it be to have a book nook for the kids?! The blog where I found this the lady turned an unused closet into the nook (seriously. An unused closet. Where can I find one of those too?) I remember as a girl wanting to find a place just for reading, all by myself in peace and quiet. They would love to escape from the real world and go be inspired. I am really wanting to create such a space. Just have to find the perfect spot, money, and time to do so.

Fireplace

In the shed there is no forced heating and air. We are going to have a wall air unit for cooling. We found a wood burning stove in Salt Lake for the heating. I have a stove in my basement (used it to heat up our home all winter) and they work well! But I have a few ideas to use the space better.I want to have the stove about 3 feet off the ground. That way you can have storage underneath for firewood without it being in the way of everything.This outdoor stove really captures my vision of storage below (but our stove will be in a corner so only one cubby for wood).I love the cozy feeling this mantle brings to the room. The shed has a small living room (12 x14) and that is the only family space so it has to be inviting and feel big. A mantle would give the room some much needed "wall space" for decor (2 walls are full of windows and doors, one is the stairwell and the other has the opening to the kitchen). Again the storage underneath makes it so functional.

Kitchen Ideas

I have been obsessed with trying to figure out how to make this shed a really livable space. The kitchen is where my focus is now. The space is small. About 10 feet wide by 11 feet long. There is a beam going through the one side that supports the loft above. Mark and I found some used cabinets in Salt Lake for $300. The guy gave us all the cabinets for a full kitchen, the counter-tops, the sink, and faucet. What a steal! The cabinets are going to get a face lift so I have been design blog hopping for ideas. Here is what I found.White cabinets are IN! Especially in small kitchens (Check) and country style homes (another Check). I am not so sure about white (little kids+ sticky fingers= handprints constantly!) but I have also seen some light blues and grays on cabinets that catch my eye. I really need to decide a wall color too. This first picture shows some blue cabinets but my favorite part are the open shelves. One wall has a window and we don't have any cabinets for it. If we do shelves like this we will get lots of storage space while being cute, fancy, and country all at the same time.
I like these white cabinets that are antiqued. My first idea for the cabinets was a cream color with antiqued glaze. I am thinking eventually we will add things like bead-board to help it have character. I also love the butcher block counters. I also love the industrial meets country with the stainless steel shelves. Ikea has a good selection of these kind of shelves for pretty inexpensive. Future ideas.
I WANT A PANTRY! Mostly for food storage. I had designed one to be build in like a closet. But with the cabinets we bought the pantry was lost. This picture solves the problem. I have about 15" that we could build a cabinet that pulls out for a pantry. Hallelujah chorus if you please!
I also have been looking at curtains vs. blinds. Right now, curtains are winning.

The Blogger I Want To Be

I am not the blogger I want to be. I love reading all of my friends blogs. I love looking at designer blogs. I love letting people catch up on what my little family is doing. I hate finding the time to do all of these things. Usually reading blogs happens more than writing my own. But not today...
This is a picture from Girls Camp. Katherine and I went the last two days of camp. We did a trust fall where a girl would climb up the ladder, turn and fall into everyone's arms. It was quite the experience. I really loved this picture. It helps me remember how much my girls are there for me. Yes. I did fall as did our bishop and fist counselor in the bishopric.
In a previous post I mentioned we are building a shed. The shed is actually a barn. Well, it looks like a barn. Yes, it is red. RED. Not my choice but it is growing on me a little. I am hoping the shingles (gray like our house) tone down the red. Luckily there are no windows in the house that face the red barn. The views from the loft of the barn are AMAZING though. We are making the barn into another living space (because we don't have enough of those). Three bedrooms, two baths. Mark is working on convincing me to live there. I will admit the 1280 square feet sounds much more appealing to clean than my current 3,000 sqaure feet. However, there is not a craft room so I am not 100% convinced.

My little guy is going to turn 3 next week! How does that happen? It seems like a few days ago he was kicking me in the ribs and now he is 3? He is hitting a terrible three stage. Mark and I are learning what works and what doesn't when it comes to teaching him lovingly. At least he always hugs me after his timeout and tells me he loves me. I love that part.
And in three weeks my baby is going to be ONE! She is crawling, scooting, pulling herself up on furniture, and getting into anything she can (usually my bag. I have to start remembering to put it somewhere other than the floor). Her hair is getting so long (this picture is right after a bath when her hair is easiest to do). This past weekend she and I have had a head cold. I think we are getting better.?. She is starting to sign to us. "Sleep" "Dad" "More" "Milk" and "Socks."


These last two pictures are from the Salt Lake County Jail B-B-Q for families. We went with my mom and dad for hot dogs, games, and fun. They had a helicopter there that Spencer loved watching take off. It was really warm and humid but still a fun time out of the house.
In other happenings: I have started exercising. So far I am losing about 2 pounds a week. Hopefully I don't stop because of this dang cold. Mark started school yesterday. One year left is what I keep saying to myself.

Summer Time Fun

June and July always seem jam packed with family reunions, holidays, birthdays, and other fun activities. I never seem to get enough of the hot summer days because there is so much to do and I hate picking what things I will have to miss. Here are some of the things that made the cut this year.

Our annual fourth of July trip to my parents and North Ogden (where Mark grew up). We loved seeing so many of his friends and neighbors from growing up. We also went to the parade in North Ogden which was great. It was an hour long (perfect length) and some great candy (banana popsicles. need I say more)! Then the b-b-q chicken and ribs at my parents for Grandma K and Nanny. AWESOME!!! With a light rain shower and then the kidde pool I think we all got cooled down.

Mark and Spencer went to a family reunion in Mt. Pleasant two weekends ago. Katherine and I stayed home for some R & R. Spencer had a blast and took a good long nap from staying up too late. Mark loved seeing his extended family.

We held a spaghetti lunch and clearance sale at our store last week. Usually we do this in the spring but we postponed it because Mark was in school. We did sell a few things and saw some old friends and customers which was great. Thanks Mary for helping cook and for watching Spencer while we prepped for the big event. Side note: if you need new lights we still have a ton we are clearance selling. Tell your firends!

Last Saturday we had the annual Elders Quorum Breakfast in our backyard. Potato pancakes, eggs, pancakes, bisquits and gravy, and orange juice. Yummy! Thanks to all who helped and came! What a way for Mark to go out with a BANG! He was released from Elders Quorum President Sunday. It is a bitter sweet ending. He is hoping for nursery or primary song leader.

I was able to go to the Relief Society Retreat last Wednesday (Yes. Last week was CRAZY!) It was up at a cabin at Brian Head which was wonderful. The potatoes and chicken from the dutch ovens was wonderful (no wonder I can't get in shape. All I do is go here and there and eat food). I learned a lot from the get to know you game (so thankful I have not been in a car accident like some of those ladies) and the games were funny.

I think that covers the big events. Coming up the next couple of weeks? Girls Camp tomorrow and Friday. Pioneer Day at home doing house work and yard work. Family reunion in Idaho next weekend. Miamaid B-B-Q for reaching our class goals. Family coming for visits. Mark goes back to school. Seriously, summer days are few and far between.

Lots To Do

(A view from where I spend most of my day, Mountain Lighting desk.) We have been keeping so busy with, well, anythig and everything. For example, today Mark is building our shed today. I would insert a picture here but all there is right now is 24' by 30' of concrete. While he does that, I played tetris with two houses of lights, camping gear, car seats, and food to take up to Salt Lake. My brother is a builder and lets us do the lights for his homes (THANKS TIM! WE APPRECIATE THE BUSINESS!!!) Then, we are sleeping over at Nanny and Papa's house tonight. Then tomorrow we are going to Strawberry Resevoir for a quick camping trip. Coming home late Saturday or early Sunday. Mark is staying home to build the shed and work Friday. Hopfully he gets some of the stuff done at work that I have been avoding all week.
(I love Spencer's smile in this picture and Katherine's expression is classic. He loves his sister.)Mark and I got new phones yesterday! In the words of Spencer "They. Are. Awesome." We got the brand new, not out to the public, HTC EVO 3D phones. I already loaded the scriptures to my phone. Now I can find a spare moment to read my scriptures and actually have them. This week was a small break for me in that I didn't have Young Womens. Youth Conference is this weekend and because I would have had to take Katherine with me they gave me a freebie this year (good thing too because last year I went with less than 30 days to go while prego with Katherine). So, instead of heading to the church Tuesday night we went to Dave and Joy's for dinner. Yummy! hamburgers and hot dogs with lots of family. I have been working on both kids' scrapbooks for their birthdays. I am doing most of it digitally on Studio J. The company I sell scrapbooking products for has THE BEST digital scrapbook program around. You don't pay for the software. That is free to use. You only pay if you want to buy the JPG file or scrapbook layouts. Saves time, mess, money and I can work on it at work. Basically, life is crazy. But, we like it that way.

Catch Up

Well, I have to play catch up again on my blog. I will not say sorry because I am actually living my life instead of goofing off on the computer.

For Mothers Day Mark didn't have an early meeting for Church. Best gift ever to have help getting the kids ready for 9am church. While getting ready Spencer came in my room said "Happy Mothers Day." and handed me a watch and new perfume.It smells delicious. At church we got a bath time "sundae." They were super cute. Imagine a 1950's diner shake and you get the idea. A Dairy Queen clear cup, filled with pink bath salts, a loofa to imitate whipping cream, all topped off with a cherry looking red bath smell good thing. Yep, I got to baths out of that one (in my big jetted tub which made it even better).

May 11 was my birthday. Mark took me out to dinner and a movie. The best present-no big birthday party in Cedar. Yep. I didn't have to clean the house to have people come over, feed them cake and ice cream and then clean after they all left. I did have a party with my family in Salt Lake a few days later. It was a combined party for Mother's Day and my birthday. It was at my parents house so I didn't have to do the cleaning and baking and organizing. Perfect kind of party.

Mark did Maymester at school. I think it was harder on me than it was on him. He was at school Monday thru Friday 9-3. I did a lot at work on my own, and he worked hard at work after school. We did go have lunch with him on campus a few times which was fun for Spencer, Katherine and me. He doesn't have any more classes until August and we are thrilled for the break.

Because Mark was at school all the time Spencer kept asking me if he could go to school. It broke my heart to say no so I have started teaching him mini-lessons at home almost every night. He loves to draw on the white board and do his homework (a page out of a workbook). His favorite lesson: rectangles (I think because I taught him how to draw a robot using just rectangles). He is learning so much so fast. He also loves to read at night with Mark. Every night as part of bedtime routine Mark reads Spencer a story and a poem. Spencer's vocabulary is growing leaps and bounds because of this.
Our annual Adams Family Camping trip was this past weekend. We went to Yuba Lake with my family. It was a great getaway! The kids loved going on the boat with Papa, the company was perfect, and the food was yummy. The only downside: Katherine was teething. So, the second night she got up 8 times. Rough on me but she was feeling better the next day. Now she is back to normal but the tooth went back into her gum instead of popping out. My mom packed her little pool for the grandkids and that was a huge success! Lots of fun and it was so good to see all of my family again.Both of these pictures are with Papa. My kids do miss Nanny and Papa so when they are around we take full advantage of them.











Not much but the normal life is happening. We are staying busy with work, church, and family. We are enjoying the good weather of spring/summer. Spencer's tan is better than mine. Mark planted a small garden this year but because of the crazy weather we are sure how well it will do. Our next big event coming up is a trip to Salt Lake for the 4th of July. Hopefully we keep on top of this blog. Until then...

Giveaways

Hey Y'all.
I was just doing some blog hopping and noticed a few giveaways. One is for Kiki Fashions, the other is for Deann's Gifts.
Go check it out:
www.babybrainstorm.blogspot.com

Thanks!

New Family Picture

We got this picture done the Saturday before Easter. Thanks Steph for snapping the photo. Thanks mom and dad for having a nice backyard. Thanks Spencer and Katherine for being so good for pictures.

Improvement

Hi Y'all (which is Dad, the occasional friend and sister)!
Are you impressed that I am already updating this and it has only been one week? If not you should be because I am.

Last night we had FHE with Mark's brother Dave and his family (Side note: Thanks for cooking dinner Dave. It was yummy and so much better than the leftovers we were going to have last night. Now we get to have leftovers tonight; which is not so fun, so, no thank you to that). For the lesson we talked about favorite stories and talked from General Conference. It was interesting to hear how different things stick out to each of us even though we all heard the same talks. It made me think of how I need to keep the enthusiasm for improvement every day. So, I started thinking about what improvements I have made since Sunday.

~Monday morning I read my scriptures. Didn't really study but I did read and ponder throughout the day.
~Monday at work I kept busy in the warehouse for two hours (thanks Carter for helping me palletize).
~We had an actual lesson for FHE (again, thank you Dave).
~Tuesday morning when I wanted a snack I grabbed an orange instead of the candy (this should count for two improvements because I actually remembered to bring the orange to work).
~I read Spencer 6 books in one sitting. Usually I only make time for one book.
~I am updating my blog after only one week.

So, there you have it. My improvements. Leave a comment with one thing you want to improve today. Let's all help each other.

ON THE RIGHT OF THIS BLOG IS A NEW SPOT FOR THE THINGS SPENCER SAYS. RIGHTFULLY CALLED "SPENCER SAYS..." I WILL TRY TO UPDATE THAT FREQUENTLY TOO.

We have been so busy! Not really with work (although we have bid a lot in the last week or so) but with life! I will not try to bore you with all the stuff we have been doing but here is a rundown.

March 4 one of Mark's best friends, Brigham, got married! It was a beautiful day and we spent a lot of time as a small family enjoiyng and remembering the true meaning of family. Congrats Brig! and welcome Ashley to the family!

For Spring Break we worked all week until Friday, March 18. We drove to Las Vegas and walked the Strip with the kiddos. The highlight of the evening was the water fountains at Bellagio. Spencer absolutely loved them! Saturday I was scrapbooking with my team and Mark and Spencer went to Bass Pro Shop and watched the BYU game. It was a great little trip.My dad came in town the next week. We didn't get to do much with him but it was still fun having Papa in town. Spencer loved going to Steph's house for shooting with the Wii. Of course Carter had to show us all up.

On the 25 (Saturday) we moved the family that was living in our house out. We spent the rest of the day cleaning and showing the basement apartment.
Sunday we went to church. Then we went upstairs to continue cleaning. However, God had different plans. A lady in our ward needed an apartment, called us, and wanted to move in Monday morning. Luckily Mark's brothers both live in our neighborhood so we literally moved in 16 hours (including getting a few hours of sleep). That is right WE ARE BACK IN OUR HOUSE!!! Not in a corner of the basement, not above our lighting store, but in our house; our home!!!
Monday we helped Ann move into the basement. The rest of the week was unpacking, arranging, and recouperating from moving three families in three days.

General Conference was awesome. Katherine slept during the morning sessions and Spencer slept during the afternoon sessions so that made it easier to listen. We have a renewed sense of purpose for life as a whole.

We have done lots of stuff with our church callings. I am helping prepare our Girls Camp fundraiser that is coming up at the end of the month. Mark had an Elders Quorum activity on March 25 that was a lot of fun. Katherine has a tooth! She has had her bottom tooth for almost two months.She has started eating rice cereal and loves it. Last Wednesday she rolled from her tummy to her back. It is hard to believe she is almost 7 months old already.

Goals

Most people set goals at the beginning of the year. They keep them for a few days and then nothing. Well, I was taught (thank you Dad) that if there is something in my life I want to change I shouldn't wait for the new year, but start that day. So, I thought I would share a few goals I have going now and a few new ones I want to start.
*Journals. Say the plural word because I write mine, Spencer, and Katherine's journals. I also keep this blog and a blog for my scrapbooking business. Well, I can't do all of this daily but I have set a goal to write in someone's journal every Sunday and update my blogs once a week. Since I made this goal I am doing rather well. I am amazed at how much detail I am able to remember for my children's journals. I hope the journals become a treasure for them.

*Family Home Evening. We have always struggled to sit down and hold FHE. We are usually together doing something but we haven't always sat down to have a lesson. So, the past couple of weeks I have really tried to encourage us to sit down for a lesson. They are usually short and followed by a game of hide and seek for Spencer's sake but we are doing better. I found a really fun idea online for Valentines Day (No, we aren't doing anything special. Today is just another day with all of us under the weather a bit). I think Spencer will enjoy this one because we are making treats to give away and enjoy.

*Flannel Board Stories. This is a project I want to make for the kids. Different stories from the scriptures, dolls with different clothes, animals, etc that we can take to church or play wth at home. The first step will be making a travel size board and maybe a bigger board for home.

Why I love my life...

Instead of being mushy for Valentines about my valentine I thought I would share a few things of why I love my life.

1. Katherine's giggle. I have to work to make her really laugh but the work is so worth it.

2. Spencer's wisdom. He says some very intelligent things for a two year old.

3. Helping hands. Mark is always so willing to help out with whatever I need. Dishes, diapers, story time, puzzle time, and everything inbetween.

4. Scriptures. I love to read my scriptures. I wish I had time to devour them but I am glad I have a few minutes each day to read them.

5. Answers to my problems. For example, lately I have been struggling with finding time for all I should be doing and prioritizing what comes first. Our bishop got up yesterday and gave a beautiful testimony of how young mothers are often so overwhelmed but how they do so much just by spending time with their children. It was just the answer and comfort I needed.

New Year, Same Me

Hi Everyone!
It is already 2011! I am not going to feel sad for being so slow at updating the blog because we have been super busy. I will try to catch up on everything we have been up to but I am not making any promises. Also, to accomplish this I won't do pictures today.

Thanksgiving was yummy! I got to sit at the little kid table and I was so proud when all of my nephews, neice and Spencer ate all of their food! We helped my parents decorate for Christmas, did some shopping (I helped my mom spend her money), decorated my brother's grave and hadlots of fun.

The weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas were full of Christmas projects, birthdays (8 to be exact), work (nothing new there) and church activities. We loved getting Christmas cards and letters learning what our friends and family are up to.

Christmas was amazing like always. We were super spoiled by friends and family and each other. The kids and I spent a full week at my parents. It was nice to get away and nice to come home too. Spencer loved opening presents (he even helped Katherine). Our big present was concrete to park on at our house :)

Mark has started another semester of school. That means back to normal work hours for me. I enjoyed my time off but did not get any of my big projects done. It also means Spencer spends a lot of time at Grandma's. I sure do miss spending all day with him.

Work is still slow and steady. A good note is that Mark entered a best business idea competion. He placed and will be awarded $1300 to start the business. He is planning to build a website with the money. His idea is to make LDS hymns and college fight song music boxes.

I absolutely love 9am church! Spencer sends me to class before I even drop him off to nursery. Mark's meetings are before the block so by 12:30 we are home for truly "A DAY OF REST!"

The freezing cold weather has subsided (for now) so we have spent a few days in the sun. Last Monday we even took Spencer and Katherine to the park for some swinging, sliding, and races. I love that Spencer says "On mark, get set, go!"