We had the whole day at our bidding to wait and wait for trick or treating! yes it was a bit of torture waiting with 7 anxious kiddos.
Grandpa helped by starting a GIANT bonfire in the front yard to burn all the branches and leaves that have been falling all around. the kids loved bringing over sticks to throw in. And of course we roasted a mallow or two just for good measure.
We got everyone fed and ready so we could go see aunt krissy in Lethbridge but 2 min into the drive she texted and said she would come to us... so back to magrath with time to spare, or waste. The kids went and watched a halloween movie at grandma Harrisons while Little buddy and grandpa Davies napped at the Davies house. I made mummy dogs and french fries for the kids to eat before all the candy came. They finished dinner then we bundles them up under their costumes, because we are in Canada now, then headed our on the town. We were definitely the first ones starting out but that is alright because we had a ton of kids to make it worth it to come to the door. Izaac, Cora and Cloe were running way ahead so Grandma Davies went with that group and we stayed with the stragglers. We met up with Aubrey and her boys. Preston loved going up to the door, often by himself, and pounding on it. Then he would confidently say "Trick or Treat" and "Thank You" when he received his candy. He was a champ. Ava got tired half way through and Adrien was her personal piggybacker who shuttled her door to door. We were out for about 2h and the kids had bags full to the top! We circled back around to Grandma Davies house and met up with the other kiddos. We left the babies with Grandparents and took the older ones to a Spook Alley on main street. I went down with Izaac, Cloe, and CoraLynn with them each clinging on for dear life. they yelled down to the ghouls in the basement that young kids were coming and not to grab them but they were definitely spooky! It was in the basement, used to be Morgue of the old hospital that has been a house for years. They had a bunch of scary people everywhere that would twitch and jump out and all that good stuff. It was definitely spooky! Alyssa, Riley, Aubrey, and Jalen went after us and got the full scary adult effect. Poor Riley was too tall in places and bumped his head a few times while running from creepy things. We hit up one more culdesac before calling it a night. We had so much fun and the weather held out amazingly! We weren't cold at all with just jackets on. It was definitely a blessing as it has been so cold lately. I took all the traditional candy pictures and they ate for a bit before I hauled them into the bathroom to scrub what we could off their teeth and get them settled for bed. It was rather difficult considering how hyper they all were but once they were each in their own beds they were pretty quiet, except for Ava who took a full 1/2h to settle enough and finally give in to sleep.
While trick or treating I was asked to sub for Primary so After watching a movie with Mom I read through my lesson and am now excitedly getting into bed. I am grateful for the extra hour of sleep we get as a special gift from Mr Daylight Savings. I will probably need it with all these candy hangovers that are sure to be happening come tomorrow morning. I wonder how much Candy will be eaten for breakfast, I probably should have hidden them or something but then were is the fun in that, plus I am too lazy at the moment.
So Good night to my dearest lover lumps, namely, You.
Happy Halloween!!!!
Saturday, October 31, 2015
Thursday, October 29, 2015
honey boo boo... boobooboo
Another day in Magrath. More parent preschool, Cora school program, Izaac scouts, dinner, books and bedtime!!
I was trying to get the living room and kitchen cleaned up for Mom who was having her visiting teachers over this morning so we were late for Preschool but it all worked out. I had to keep Preston up an hour later for his nap so we could see Cora's program at 12:45. I was really surprised that there weren't more parents there, only like 15 or so for two classes of kids. Cora was so excited and huge each of us like 10 times before taking her place on the risers. She did a great gob! I kept pitching her programs from preschool and how much she has grown since then:)
After it was done and all the kids were filing out and back to their class, and like 4 other classes of little kids were passing by also I misplaced our youngest. He just disappeared!! I was trying not to panic too much and trying to think like a 2yr old..... the possibilities weren't pretty. He could have wandered or followed anyone! or be in any classroom, and I was searching saying a little prayer in my heart, and then backtracking and thankfully looked in the room we started in and there he was sitting on a seat in the music room where we had just been. I was so thankful!! I had been looking for his orange coat and was planning my description of him to the office when I finally needed a search team but when I saw him in his green shirt I was surprised then realized that I had his coat in my hand. Ahhh. So much for being a good parent, but in the end I left with the same amount of kids I came with so I feel like that was a win.
Buddy went right down for is nap and Ava and I played dominos, she had a bath, and then Mom and Aubrey came home and we went to Uncle Lances house to decorate it for his Halloween birthday that he is skipping town for. So we were a bit early. We put up 60 spiders and a web, cuz he is turning 60.
It was fun:)
Came home just before the kids got home then took Izaac to scouts. When I picked him up 1 1/2h later he was missing his shirt and was jumping around the kitchen eating a candy apple. Apparently he got really into bobbing for apples, the described him more as swimming for apples... Yes, I said that would be my boy. But he wasn't the only one without a shirt so that made me feel a little better.
Izaac was in a great mood at dinner and talked the entire time! he described the book "because of Winn Dixie" and his favorite parts, and all about it and how his teacher was reading it to them. He also told me about "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" that he has been reading. I was so impressed and excited that he is that excited about school and what he is learning here. I wish we could let him finish the year here. He was also asking about Hockey and if he could join the team. HA! We are Canadianizing him:)
The kids went to bed well and all of them asked about you and why we weren't calling you. When the dust setteled I got to work on the witch hat cookies for Cora's class and the skeleton and pumpkin veggie tray for Izaacs class. I told them what I was making and Izaacs reply was, "You know this is a Halloween party right Mom?" I assured him that other people would be bringing the treats for his class and that I was asked to bring the veggies. I think he will like them when he sees the finished product. I will try to take a pic of them in the morning but I was too tired tonight to worry about it so neglected to do so but they were super adorable so those lil stinkers better appreciate it!!:)
And now I am at the close of the day with nothing but my contacts and my toothbrush between me and my bed! Well I should be worrying about finishing Cora's tail but I have until 10am to get that on so I should be good.
I love you and I am sorry Zombies attacked you!
I hope you survive and make me your zombie bride and we can shuffle across the country side together:)
Lover your fellow, soon to be, brain lover!
I was trying to get the living room and kitchen cleaned up for Mom who was having her visiting teachers over this morning so we were late for Preschool but it all worked out. I had to keep Preston up an hour later for his nap so we could see Cora's program at 12:45. I was really surprised that there weren't more parents there, only like 15 or so for two classes of kids. Cora was so excited and huge each of us like 10 times before taking her place on the risers. She did a great gob! I kept pitching her programs from preschool and how much she has grown since then:)
After it was done and all the kids were filing out and back to their class, and like 4 other classes of little kids were passing by also I misplaced our youngest. He just disappeared!! I was trying not to panic too much and trying to think like a 2yr old..... the possibilities weren't pretty. He could have wandered or followed anyone! or be in any classroom, and I was searching saying a little prayer in my heart, and then backtracking and thankfully looked in the room we started in and there he was sitting on a seat in the music room where we had just been. I was so thankful!! I had been looking for his orange coat and was planning my description of him to the office when I finally needed a search team but when I saw him in his green shirt I was surprised then realized that I had his coat in my hand. Ahhh. So much for being a good parent, but in the end I left with the same amount of kids I came with so I feel like that was a win.
Buddy went right down for is nap and Ava and I played dominos, she had a bath, and then Mom and Aubrey came home and we went to Uncle Lances house to decorate it for his Halloween birthday that he is skipping town for. So we were a bit early. We put up 60 spiders and a web, cuz he is turning 60.
It was fun:)
Came home just before the kids got home then took Izaac to scouts. When I picked him up 1 1/2h later he was missing his shirt and was jumping around the kitchen eating a candy apple. Apparently he got really into bobbing for apples, the described him more as swimming for apples... Yes, I said that would be my boy. But he wasn't the only one without a shirt so that made me feel a little better.
Izaac was in a great mood at dinner and talked the entire time! he described the book "because of Winn Dixie" and his favorite parts, and all about it and how his teacher was reading it to them. He also told me about "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" that he has been reading. I was so impressed and excited that he is that excited about school and what he is learning here. I wish we could let him finish the year here. He was also asking about Hockey and if he could join the team. HA! We are Canadianizing him:)
The kids went to bed well and all of them asked about you and why we weren't calling you. When the dust setteled I got to work on the witch hat cookies for Cora's class and the skeleton and pumpkin veggie tray for Izaacs class. I told them what I was making and Izaacs reply was, "You know this is a Halloween party right Mom?" I assured him that other people would be bringing the treats for his class and that I was asked to bring the veggies. I think he will like them when he sees the finished product. I will try to take a pic of them in the morning but I was too tired tonight to worry about it so neglected to do so but they were super adorable so those lil stinkers better appreciate it!!:)
And now I am at the close of the day with nothing but my contacts and my toothbrush between me and my bed! Well I should be worrying about finishing Cora's tail but I have until 10am to get that on so I should be good.
I love you and I am sorry Zombies attacked you!
I hope you survive and make me your zombie bride and we can shuffle across the country side together:)
Lover your fellow, soon to be, brain lover!
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
aaaaaaaaaahhh
Hello my Canadian Ice Princess,
I seriously haven't anything to say about my day. Seriously. I did workout. I helped move some stuff in the clinic. Went to the lunch with Banks, nice to have some human interaction there. Went to the library to do CE courses until I couldn't handle it any more and my eyes and head felt like they would explode. I then ate dinner and came here and spaced out for a while.
I want to feel productive tomorrow. That is my goal. Even though I'm trying to be productive, I feel drained and poopy, yes that's the word, I feel poopy.
My runs have become some of my favorite and peaceful times of the day. I enjoyed running in the cool air today - it was actually cool! And it has been a bit rainy all day. I loved it. Also exercising is a time I feel engaged and with purpose. I want to feel that when I do my CE too but I just fade off reading and can't keep focus. I for the first time in a long time posted on Facebook. I'm going to try an experiment: I am going to try to make a daily post (or so) with the question in mind: what in my daily experiences can I share that would benefit others? I'm going to avoid talking about myself or my accomplishments which most all of Facebook is - narcissistic ranting - and share tidbits of insights that I notice in my surroundings and experience that are uplifting and motivating. Nothing more. So that's my experiement.
I do love you. I loved looking at our old BYUI pictures today so much. You look so cute and little in them, I can't get enough looking at you in those pics. I just want to pull you out of the picture and squeeze you!!! One thing is absolutely certain though: you have become more the girl of my dreams now than when we first met!!!! I love everything about you and anticipate and EXPECT to fall more madly and deeply in love with you as the years pass by.
To our many years of adventures and love ahead!
Love,
Montana Man Dude
I seriously haven't anything to say about my day. Seriously. I did workout. I helped move some stuff in the clinic. Went to the lunch with Banks, nice to have some human interaction there. Went to the library to do CE courses until I couldn't handle it any more and my eyes and head felt like they would explode. I then ate dinner and came here and spaced out for a while.
I want to feel productive tomorrow. That is my goal. Even though I'm trying to be productive, I feel drained and poopy, yes that's the word, I feel poopy.
My runs have become some of my favorite and peaceful times of the day. I enjoyed running in the cool air today - it was actually cool! And it has been a bit rainy all day. I loved it. Also exercising is a time I feel engaged and with purpose. I want to feel that when I do my CE too but I just fade off reading and can't keep focus. I for the first time in a long time posted on Facebook. I'm going to try an experiment: I am going to try to make a daily post (or so) with the question in mind: what in my daily experiences can I share that would benefit others? I'm going to avoid talking about myself or my accomplishments which most all of Facebook is - narcissistic ranting - and share tidbits of insights that I notice in my surroundings and experience that are uplifting and motivating. Nothing more. So that's my experiement.
I do love you. I loved looking at our old BYUI pictures today so much. You look so cute and little in them, I can't get enough looking at you in those pics. I just want to pull you out of the picture and squeeze you!!! One thing is absolutely certain though: you have become more the girl of my dreams now than when we first met!!!! I love everything about you and anticipate and EXPECT to fall more madly and deeply in love with you as the years pass by.
To our many years of adventures and love ahead!
Love,
Montana Man Dude
Tuesday, October 27, 2015
doooo weeeee ooooooooooooh
Hello Sweetie
Why did the Dr. Surf the net?
So today started out alright.... I suppose. I didn't go to the Gym because I was slow getting the kids to school and only had about 15 min before I had to be home at 9 so dad could go to work. but I didn't get much else done... Except the tails for the pony so i guess something got accomplished. We went to stay and play and it was really busy there were a ton of kids there running around doing stuff. They had it decorated for halloween and a lot of kids were in costume. Ava just happened to be wearing her cape but that was just as a regular attire thing and not so much of a costume but she fit right in.
He was looking for Cybermen
We came home and had lunch and put buddy down for his nap... and then I was super restless so I went upstairs and cleared out a bunch of boxes from the attic. So I guess I got my workout by hauling a bunch of heavy boxes up and down the ladder We managed to get almost a trunkful to take to the thrift store so it is progress. I figure a trunkful per week will be a good start for them to move.
Why did the Dalek cross the road
I am trying to get ready for all the snacks I get to bring to the kids classes for their Halloween parties. I am making witches hat cookies for Cora's class with Oreos and Kisses and Izaacs class I am supposed to make a veggie tray so I am going to create a pumpkin out of carrots and a skeleton veggie man. I am pretty excited.
To exterminate humanity!
We did Piano today and the kids liked it and did well. It is fun to teach them something and to have them be excited about practicing and sticking with it.
How does the Dalek keep its skin so soft?
It is getting almost too cold to really go out for walks so we seized the moment and walked a few blocks on this crisp day to enjoy being outside. I am nervous for when it snows and we are stuck inside more. I think the house will explode with all the energy Preston has which usually manifests itself as throwing objects, jumping off things and climbing the piano. We shall see!!
Exfoliate
I had a nice talk with Izaac despite him and I exploding during scriptures and needing a brake. I am just trying to use better communication,,, without lectures. Trying to ask him his version of things and how he thinks things are going. I am still not great at all this but I am trying to be better.
What does a Sontaran take on holiday?
I am trying to have an attitude of service helping our kids and loving all the things they do. I am grateful for the time we get to spend together. It feels like longer here from after school to dinner and bedtime but it probably isn't a bunch of homework that they need to be worried about. We do read with them 20 min/night but it is more of a relaxing thing then a stressor.
Sun-taran lotion
Biscuit has become an inside cat. She is also going slightly crazy and is obsessed with chasing her tail. She will run circles chasing it and flicking it in weird ways then pouncing on it. She may need some more toys and stimulation more then running away from our kids and all the love they have to share.
Why did the face of Boe not go to the party?
My goals for tomorrow are to go to the temple
drop off the stuff at the thrift store
finish the eyes on the pony... yes I know I have been putting it off for far too long
I guess I will workout in the morning also.
happy bedtime/scripture/prayer time for all the kids, and me
He had no-body to go with
Ava has been acting so kind and grown up with Preston. usually they fight over everything, every little button to be pushed, door to be opened, colored something to be had, treat to be eaten but lately Ava has been allowing Preston to do it and just being so sweet about it. It is super cute to see.
What does the Doctor eat with spaghetti?
I love and adore you I hope you find something to take up your time and that you enjoy your day... I hope you win your racquetball game and that your turkey burger tastes amazing instead of mundane.
Dalek bread
I can't wait to watch the new season of Dr Who with you in our regular movie watching attire. It is pretty much my favorite attire when I am with you.
Love your Whovian wife
Why did the Dr. Surf the net?
So today started out alright.... I suppose. I didn't go to the Gym because I was slow getting the kids to school and only had about 15 min before I had to be home at 9 so dad could go to work. but I didn't get much else done... Except the tails for the pony so i guess something got accomplished. We went to stay and play and it was really busy there were a ton of kids there running around doing stuff. They had it decorated for halloween and a lot of kids were in costume. Ava just happened to be wearing her cape but that was just as a regular attire thing and not so much of a costume but she fit right in.
He was looking for Cybermen
We came home and had lunch and put buddy down for his nap... and then I was super restless so I went upstairs and cleared out a bunch of boxes from the attic. So I guess I got my workout by hauling a bunch of heavy boxes up and down the ladder We managed to get almost a trunkful to take to the thrift store so it is progress. I figure a trunkful per week will be a good start for them to move.
Why did the Dalek cross the road
I am trying to get ready for all the snacks I get to bring to the kids classes for their Halloween parties. I am making witches hat cookies for Cora's class with Oreos and Kisses and Izaacs class I am supposed to make a veggie tray so I am going to create a pumpkin out of carrots and a skeleton veggie man. I am pretty excited.
To exterminate humanity!
We did Piano today and the kids liked it and did well. It is fun to teach them something and to have them be excited about practicing and sticking with it.
How does the Dalek keep its skin so soft?
It is getting almost too cold to really go out for walks so we seized the moment and walked a few blocks on this crisp day to enjoy being outside. I am nervous for when it snows and we are stuck inside more. I think the house will explode with all the energy Preston has which usually manifests itself as throwing objects, jumping off things and climbing the piano. We shall see!!
Exfoliate
I had a nice talk with Izaac despite him and I exploding during scriptures and needing a brake. I am just trying to use better communication,,, without lectures. Trying to ask him his version of things and how he thinks things are going. I am still not great at all this but I am trying to be better.
What does a Sontaran take on holiday?
I am trying to have an attitude of service helping our kids and loving all the things they do. I am grateful for the time we get to spend together. It feels like longer here from after school to dinner and bedtime but it probably isn't a bunch of homework that they need to be worried about. We do read with them 20 min/night but it is more of a relaxing thing then a stressor.
Sun-taran lotion
Biscuit has become an inside cat. She is also going slightly crazy and is obsessed with chasing her tail. She will run circles chasing it and flicking it in weird ways then pouncing on it. She may need some more toys and stimulation more then running away from our kids and all the love they have to share.
Why did the face of Boe not go to the party?
My goals for tomorrow are to go to the temple
drop off the stuff at the thrift store
finish the eyes on the pony... yes I know I have been putting it off for far too long
I guess I will workout in the morning also.
happy bedtime/scripture/prayer time for all the kids, and me
He had no-body to go with
Ava has been acting so kind and grown up with Preston. usually they fight over everything, every little button to be pushed, door to be opened, colored something to be had, treat to be eaten but lately Ava has been allowing Preston to do it and just being so sweet about it. It is super cute to see.
What does the Doctor eat with spaghetti?
I love and adore you I hope you find something to take up your time and that you enjoy your day... I hope you win your racquetball game and that your turkey burger tastes amazing instead of mundane.
Dalek bread
I can't wait to watch the new season of Dr Who with you in our regular movie watching attire. It is pretty much my favorite attire when I am with you.
Love your Whovian wife
With great power comes great ... electricity bills
Hello Ali, my succulent little garden snail, and who will we be scarring today?
In fact, garden snail does sound succulent and would taste better then eating another turkey burger for the 67th day in a row...
So day two of broken clinic episode.... it was a hot day. Blistering day. A blistering hot day and I was sitting at my desk next to my side kick, SSG Hof, saying nothing. Then it happened. We couldn't see it, nor did we know that it had happened, but right beneath our noses, it happened. It was, in fact, so close to our noses that it was in our noses. "SSG Hof, do smell that?" I ask. "Forget about it" he replies. "No the smell is familiar, I know this smell it reminds me of...of." "Well I didn't let one go if that's what you're getting at" interjects Hof. "SSG Hof, listen to me, we are in serious danger. In fact, we are surrounded at this very moment" SSG Hof slides out of his seat nervously darting his eyes about the dingy and poorly lit office. "Is it the fuzz?" he manages to choke out. "Yes, Hof, it IS the fuzz." I whisper in reply. "It's the fuzz and it is growing in our walls. I knew I recognized that smell. It is the same smell we had in the case of 'Mold is growing in Ft Polk'. That was no easy mystery then and nearly did us all in." "Is there any hope?" Squeaks Hof. I squint at him over my loupes "No Hof, I'm afraid not." Just then, there was a knock at the door... To be continued
The mystery will continue to unfold in future episodes but for now it just means that I'm bored and am trying to get out of doing my CE course. I finished the first assignment, then fell asleep for like 2 hours in the library. I did work out and played (or should so got the poo beat our of me) in racket ball. I ran this morning too.
Tomorrow I hope to be awesome and get 2 assignments done in my CE course. Plus the usual. I also, really, really want to get a cheap guitar. I have been really itching to play a lot of guitar and feel it would be so relaxing. Think about it...I could serenade you and woo you with my songs? Don't you want to be wooed?
Without work I just don't have much interaction with folks. It's amazing, only two days and it feels like I haven't seen anyone for weeks. I just do my thing going from the gym to the library to the defac to bed. I passed by CPT Banks who also said he was so bored today and tomorrow he might join me at the library to start some CE courses himself. It just is nice to have a buddy even if you are silken in the library.
I'm coming down with a sore throat, I wonder if I am fungal infected?
Well, I miss you. I keep hoping that the clinic is like destroyed for the next two months and they decide 'well there's nothing for you to do so we'll just send you home while we fix this'. There's always wishful fantasizing right? Speaking of fantasizing... well I have to keep this PG but I miss you (I think I said that) and am excited that we are at the top of the mountain and looking at the downhill part home now.
Ali, my tender, oozing blossom, you're looking fabulous today. Is that a new haircut? Come on, tell me it's a new haircut, isn't it? It's got to be a new haircut. New makeup? You had a lift? You had a tuck? You had something? Something has been inserted in in you that makes you look...like the most ridiculously hot, gorgeous, sexy girl alive I ever did lay eye on.
You're monster of love,
hairy hubby
In fact, garden snail does sound succulent and would taste better then eating another turkey burger for the 67th day in a row...
So day two of broken clinic episode.... it was a hot day. Blistering day. A blistering hot day and I was sitting at my desk next to my side kick, SSG Hof, saying nothing. Then it happened. We couldn't see it, nor did we know that it had happened, but right beneath our noses, it happened. It was, in fact, so close to our noses that it was in our noses. "SSG Hof, do smell that?" I ask. "Forget about it" he replies. "No the smell is familiar, I know this smell it reminds me of...of." "Well I didn't let one go if that's what you're getting at" interjects Hof. "SSG Hof, listen to me, we are in serious danger. In fact, we are surrounded at this very moment" SSG Hof slides out of his seat nervously darting his eyes about the dingy and poorly lit office. "Is it the fuzz?" he manages to choke out. "Yes, Hof, it IS the fuzz." I whisper in reply. "It's the fuzz and it is growing in our walls. I knew I recognized that smell. It is the same smell we had in the case of 'Mold is growing in Ft Polk'. That was no easy mystery then and nearly did us all in." "Is there any hope?" Squeaks Hof. I squint at him over my loupes "No Hof, I'm afraid not." Just then, there was a knock at the door... To be continued
The mystery will continue to unfold in future episodes but for now it just means that I'm bored and am trying to get out of doing my CE course. I finished the first assignment, then fell asleep for like 2 hours in the library. I did work out and played (or should so got the poo beat our of me) in racket ball. I ran this morning too.
Tomorrow I hope to be awesome and get 2 assignments done in my CE course. Plus the usual. I also, really, really want to get a cheap guitar. I have been really itching to play a lot of guitar and feel it would be so relaxing. Think about it...I could serenade you and woo you with my songs? Don't you want to be wooed?
Without work I just don't have much interaction with folks. It's amazing, only two days and it feels like I haven't seen anyone for weeks. I just do my thing going from the gym to the library to the defac to bed. I passed by CPT Banks who also said he was so bored today and tomorrow he might join me at the library to start some CE courses himself. It just is nice to have a buddy even if you are silken in the library.
I'm coming down with a sore throat, I wonder if I am fungal infected?
Well, I miss you. I keep hoping that the clinic is like destroyed for the next two months and they decide 'well there's nothing for you to do so we'll just send you home while we fix this'. There's always wishful fantasizing right? Speaking of fantasizing... well I have to keep this PG but I miss you (I think I said that) and am excited that we are at the top of the mountain and looking at the downhill part home now.
Ali, my tender, oozing blossom, you're looking fabulous today. Is that a new haircut? Come on, tell me it's a new haircut, isn't it? It's got to be a new haircut. New makeup? You had a lift? You had a tuck? You had something? Something has been inserted in in you that makes you look...like the most ridiculously hot, gorgeous, sexy girl alive I ever did lay eye on.
You're monster of love,
hairy hubby
Monday, October 26, 2015
Hey America I didn't see you there, it's me Ali Sparks!
I am sooooooo Sorry that I have been absolutely failing at this whole writing thing. I have seriously fallen asleep at 8:30 for the past three nights, well except last night when I talked to you all night. It is so cold I always justify staying in my warm bed rather then getting out for any reason.
I didn't do too much of anything, I started to make the eyes for the costumes but it turned out alright but not awesome so I got discouraged after one hat and really wanted to have a nap but Aubrey came over and were were talking and visiting with mom and it sed up all my sleepy time. Adrien was sick today and around 3:30 I was thinking the kids would be one soon, and then I realized that Adrien was upstairs and I needed to run and get them!! They were there waiting for me and not too mad that I was slow. I like picking them up and getting to be apart of their school experience. It looses something when you just drive by and pick them up as opposed to getting to walk in the school and see the hallways, hear and say hi to the teachers and other parents. I enjoy it.
We went to Gma Olsen's house for Piano lessons after school and the kids did so great! They were excited to show her their pieces and they sight read the new ones so well. I was excited that it went so well. I hope we are able to keep up with this because it is such a useful skill to have I also want to get better, so I suppose I should get to practicing!!
I guess I should have taken my nap today because after dinner I was just extra grumpy with all the antics. Izaac came home from playing outside angry and confrontational and I totally played into it. I should be better at trying to make him smile and drag him out of a grumpy mood but I want it to come from within himself. But it starts with a good example from his mom so I had better start stepping it up.
Bedtime, and evenings always go so much smoother when Preston finally gets put down for the night. It is like the home gives a sigh of relief, and relaxes. I really need to start putting him down earlier for all our sanity. I love how well he goes down for naps and bedtime. After a song and some loving he is quiet and content. We have been blessed with great sleepers. I remember Ava being much the same way. Izaac and Cora I think we put them in the same room too quickly and it was too hard having a small person to play with but they still did alright.
I am excited for halloween and can't wait to be finished with all the costume making!! and to put all my craft junk away and not have it in the way. This is such a small living space for so many people that anything extra is so noticeable.
I have goals... I feel like they are mostly the same as always.
1. Scriptures and Prayers
2. Workout in the morning
3. Eat no sugar on weekdays, or at least no candy, sweets, junk stuff like that. (Its good Halloween is on Saturday)
4. Make some special time for Cora
I love you and love to talk to you. You are amazing and I am so proud of you for going out of your comfort zone and being aa friend to those around you. Isn't it amazing that the things we need are the things we have to offer to others. We can sit around being sad that we have no friends or we can go out and be a friend to others. (I am thinking of myself as well in that, not picking on you) Usually the things we feel are lacking in our lives are the things we are withholding from others, and if we offer it to them we can find it ourselves.
I hope you have a great week away from work and find some things to do that are productive, maybe making me a cool sand box in the wood working shop... Just saying:)
You really thought having allergies would make you more attractive??
Love to you my one and only, lover, and partner in life.
Your adoring super fan!
Ali
I didn't do too much of anything, I started to make the eyes for the costumes but it turned out alright but not awesome so I got discouraged after one hat and really wanted to have a nap but Aubrey came over and were were talking and visiting with mom and it sed up all my sleepy time. Adrien was sick today and around 3:30 I was thinking the kids would be one soon, and then I realized that Adrien was upstairs and I needed to run and get them!! They were there waiting for me and not too mad that I was slow. I like picking them up and getting to be apart of their school experience. It looses something when you just drive by and pick them up as opposed to getting to walk in the school and see the hallways, hear and say hi to the teachers and other parents. I enjoy it.
We went to Gma Olsen's house for Piano lessons after school and the kids did so great! They were excited to show her their pieces and they sight read the new ones so well. I was excited that it went so well. I hope we are able to keep up with this because it is such a useful skill to have I also want to get better, so I suppose I should get to practicing!!
I guess I should have taken my nap today because after dinner I was just extra grumpy with all the antics. Izaac came home from playing outside angry and confrontational and I totally played into it. I should be better at trying to make him smile and drag him out of a grumpy mood but I want it to come from within himself. But it starts with a good example from his mom so I had better start stepping it up.
Bedtime, and evenings always go so much smoother when Preston finally gets put down for the night. It is like the home gives a sigh of relief, and relaxes. I really need to start putting him down earlier for all our sanity. I love how well he goes down for naps and bedtime. After a song and some loving he is quiet and content. We have been blessed with great sleepers. I remember Ava being much the same way. Izaac and Cora I think we put them in the same room too quickly and it was too hard having a small person to play with but they still did alright.
I am excited for halloween and can't wait to be finished with all the costume making!! and to put all my craft junk away and not have it in the way. This is such a small living space for so many people that anything extra is so noticeable.
I have goals... I feel like they are mostly the same as always.
1. Scriptures and Prayers
2. Workout in the morning
3. Eat no sugar on weekdays, or at least no candy, sweets, junk stuff like that. (Its good Halloween is on Saturday)
4. Make some special time for Cora
I love you and love to talk to you. You are amazing and I am so proud of you for going out of your comfort zone and being aa friend to those around you. Isn't it amazing that the things we need are the things we have to offer to others. We can sit around being sad that we have no friends or we can go out and be a friend to others. (I am thinking of myself as well in that, not picking on you) Usually the things we feel are lacking in our lives are the things we are withholding from others, and if we offer it to them we can find it ourselves.
I hope you have a great week away from work and find some things to do that are productive, maybe making me a cool sand box in the wood working shop... Just saying:)
You really thought having allergies would make you more attractive??
Love to you my one and only, lover, and partner in life.
Your adoring super fan!
Ali
Monday Mahem
Dear love of my life and then some,
So our clinic is flooded, looks like we won't be back in it all week. So first thought is: sleep party!! And I could hardly help myself so I did just that, slept most all the day. Funny thing is everyone I talked to from clinic did the same thing. I think we are all going to be so off schedule we will be zombies. I did my work out though and made a plan to do my CE course this week but didn't do any of it today except send myself all the stuff and get it organized. I really just slept today.
So with that, my goals were to wake up and exercise etc. I mostly slept. Though I did exercise.
So tomorrow, I want to wake up when I'm supposed to wake up and not get off my schedule. I want to read in the morning and talk to my wonderful family. I want to exercise first thing in the morning then spend my day in the library doing CE. That is my plan.
I want to be in control of life. I find that comes down to making each little choice count. When the alarm goes off, do I wake up or push snooze. Pushing snooze is allowing my environment and body control me. I lose time and agency. Getting up in the morning I think is the most important moment of the day. When I pop out of bed I instantly feel more in charge and awake throughout my day. Also I get the important things done in the morning before the day has the chance to push them out like scripture study and exercise. I want to keep these habits when I get home. I want to wake up and exercise (with you would be awesome) and read my scriptures every morning before I leave the door. I will have to be disciplined to go to bed and in tune enough to adapt when necessary.
So tomorrow I have a lot of freedom and I'm anxious to see if I can take control of it. "you can steel our land but you can't steel my freedom!" - picture me in a loin cloth right now.
Love you my beautiful war princess,
Man
So our clinic is flooded, looks like we won't be back in it all week. So first thought is: sleep party!! And I could hardly help myself so I did just that, slept most all the day. Funny thing is everyone I talked to from clinic did the same thing. I think we are all going to be so off schedule we will be zombies. I did my work out though and made a plan to do my CE course this week but didn't do any of it today except send myself all the stuff and get it organized. I really just slept today.
So with that, my goals were to wake up and exercise etc. I mostly slept. Though I did exercise.
So tomorrow, I want to wake up when I'm supposed to wake up and not get off my schedule. I want to read in the morning and talk to my wonderful family. I want to exercise first thing in the morning then spend my day in the library doing CE. That is my plan.
I want to be in control of life. I find that comes down to making each little choice count. When the alarm goes off, do I wake up or push snooze. Pushing snooze is allowing my environment and body control me. I lose time and agency. Getting up in the morning I think is the most important moment of the day. When I pop out of bed I instantly feel more in charge and awake throughout my day. Also I get the important things done in the morning before the day has the chance to push them out like scripture study and exercise. I want to keep these habits when I get home. I want to wake up and exercise (with you would be awesome) and read my scriptures every morning before I leave the door. I will have to be disciplined to go to bed and in tune enough to adapt when necessary.
So tomorrow I have a lot of freedom and I'm anxious to see if I can take control of it. "you can steel our land but you can't steel my freedom!" - picture me in a loin cloth right now.
Love you my beautiful war princess,
Man
Sunday, October 25, 2015
Sleepy Sunday
My Favorite,
It was just plain nice to sleep in (though I really missed saying good night and praying with the kids - but also glad they went to bed early and kind of glad to sleep in at the same time). Went to church, that was nice. Then went to brunch. I listened to I think his name is Brother Taylor but anyways he got emotional telling a number of deployment stories of people getting shot in front of him and having to motivate leaders and folks to go fight. He had friends who dealt with a lot of trauma too. Just could see and feel the turmoil in his mind and that he hasn't yet made reconciliation with all of those feelings and emotions. It's crazy the struggle people go through and how real war is. Brother McMullin who was there in the conversation tried to relate with his own stories as a surgeon treating mass casualties and having deranged bodies missing most of their limbs etc coming in to the clinic, many already dead, some of them the enemy, and having to sort through and treat them all. Interesting that the dentist chipped in by triaging and choosing basically who was going to get treatment and who, in essence would die. Heavy stuff but real and part of what this organization is about. Funny that even here, so far from home, I still feel so apart from this reality that for them is so close to home, even in their own minds and doesn't end. I am safe and separated from these scenarios where I am located and it is hard for me to completely relate, though part of me wants to feel their pain and share their sorrows; I don't wish it on anybody.
My goals were to sleep and go to church. Done and done.
Tomorrow I need to get back up at 4am again and run. Call you guys. read scriptures. Work, do some CE, Go to the gym, come home. Repeat.
I guess my thought is what I wrote above. Actually Neal McMullin made a good point I hadn't thought of literally before: As Christians we inherently must accept that life isn't fair purely by virtue that the very One in whom is the focus and center of our faith, Christ, so undeservedly was punished and bore the burdens of all the sin and wrong in the world yet was the only one ever to have not sinned or deserved to bear ant of it. So being Christian is plain and simple to accept that yes, life is not fair. But with that is also the understanding that though life isn't fair now, because of Christ it will be. We talked in Sunday school about being prepared for the second coming. Calamities, trials, pain, sickness, war, sickness, death...it's going to come to all of us but to be prepared we must place our anchor in Christ and trust in Him. Doing so will hold us fast through the storms. It certainly doesn't make us impervious to being in the storm, but we don't have to be washed away by them. And sometimes, regardless, the storms will still inflict some damage, but if we prepared our boats enough we can stay afloat until He comes to mend all that is lost. I could see that in Bro Taylor. Despite his best efforts he told some collateral damage. But if he can hold to his anchor, those wounds can be healed. And partly, we can be the balm that heals them. I know that the Savior did take all upon Himself to bare it all, feel it all, know it all. He sank to the bottom and rose again to the top. Truly He descended below all things and it would be blasphemous of us to think that we, followers of Him, wouldn't descend a little too. In doing so we are forced to reach up to Him thus drawing us to Him.
Another example of how I kind of forgot about these thoughts until I started writing them. Don't forget to write your letters. Make sure you get your goals each day and hold me accountable for mine. I love you and together we can weather our life storms. We don't have to be alone and the Lord gave us each other to man our little Mayflower as we journey through choppy seas. I can't think of a better shipmate than you!
Ahoy Matey!
It was just plain nice to sleep in (though I really missed saying good night and praying with the kids - but also glad they went to bed early and kind of glad to sleep in at the same time). Went to church, that was nice. Then went to brunch. I listened to I think his name is Brother Taylor but anyways he got emotional telling a number of deployment stories of people getting shot in front of him and having to motivate leaders and folks to go fight. He had friends who dealt with a lot of trauma too. Just could see and feel the turmoil in his mind and that he hasn't yet made reconciliation with all of those feelings and emotions. It's crazy the struggle people go through and how real war is. Brother McMullin who was there in the conversation tried to relate with his own stories as a surgeon treating mass casualties and having deranged bodies missing most of their limbs etc coming in to the clinic, many already dead, some of them the enemy, and having to sort through and treat them all. Interesting that the dentist chipped in by triaging and choosing basically who was going to get treatment and who, in essence would die. Heavy stuff but real and part of what this organization is about. Funny that even here, so far from home, I still feel so apart from this reality that for them is so close to home, even in their own minds and doesn't end. I am safe and separated from these scenarios where I am located and it is hard for me to completely relate, though part of me wants to feel their pain and share their sorrows; I don't wish it on anybody.
My goals were to sleep and go to church. Done and done.
Tomorrow I need to get back up at 4am again and run. Call you guys. read scriptures. Work, do some CE, Go to the gym, come home. Repeat.
I guess my thought is what I wrote above. Actually Neal McMullin made a good point I hadn't thought of literally before: As Christians we inherently must accept that life isn't fair purely by virtue that the very One in whom is the focus and center of our faith, Christ, so undeservedly was punished and bore the burdens of all the sin and wrong in the world yet was the only one ever to have not sinned or deserved to bear ant of it. So being Christian is plain and simple to accept that yes, life is not fair. But with that is also the understanding that though life isn't fair now, because of Christ it will be. We talked in Sunday school about being prepared for the second coming. Calamities, trials, pain, sickness, war, sickness, death...it's going to come to all of us but to be prepared we must place our anchor in Christ and trust in Him. Doing so will hold us fast through the storms. It certainly doesn't make us impervious to being in the storm, but we don't have to be washed away by them. And sometimes, regardless, the storms will still inflict some damage, but if we prepared our boats enough we can stay afloat until He comes to mend all that is lost. I could see that in Bro Taylor. Despite his best efforts he told some collateral damage. But if he can hold to his anchor, those wounds can be healed. And partly, we can be the balm that heals them. I know that the Savior did take all upon Himself to bare it all, feel it all, know it all. He sank to the bottom and rose again to the top. Truly He descended below all things and it would be blasphemous of us to think that we, followers of Him, wouldn't descend a little too. In doing so we are forced to reach up to Him thus drawing us to Him.
Another example of how I kind of forgot about these thoughts until I started writing them. Don't forget to write your letters. Make sure you get your goals each day and hold me accountable for mine. I love you and together we can weather our life storms. We don't have to be alone and the Lord gave us each other to man our little Mayflower as we journey through choppy seas. I can't think of a better shipmate than you!
Ahoy Matey!
Yesterdays Post
Hello Lover,
For some reason this wouldn't post last night.
It was lovely to take a 4 hour nap after training today. I tried texting you but you were asleep and so I fell asleep and it was great. Got up and went to the gym to start my training. He measured me (I'm 13.6% body fat, whatever that means). Then he gave me a workout and told me to go do it. I guess I was expecting him to watch me or push me or something but it was just like working out myself. The difference was I had to turn in my numbers so I definitely did push harder knowing someone was about to look at them - and mind you , he was impressed. I pushed myself that on multiple occasions I really thought I was going to throw up. I hovered outside the bathroom a bit just in case. After I ate and hung with MAJ Ho and clan for a few then went to a country concert and sat with CPT England. The country music made me feel at home. This weekend has been a good homey weekend with out BBQ and country, just made me feel good. Also good hanging out time and resting. Good weekend so far!
I think my goals were to just workout and maybe sleep all day so I pretty much close got those.
Tomorrow: pretty much the same. I want to get a good 3-4 hour nap, go to bed early, go to church, read scriptures, call mom, and maybe (MAYBE) I'll try the crossfit thing that starts only on Sundays but I don't think I'm up for it tomorrow.
I did have an epiphany today. It was about myself and came while I was watching the concert. It was just so peaceful somehow. I reflected on it and on the weekend and the thought came to me that the world needs more people like me. Now I don't normally think stuff like that, generally I think I need to change to better meet the world's needs and dwell on what I'm lacking. But I feel that I brought people together and feel that I have something to contribute that isn't common in the world. I think I have been given an independent soul that sees the world objectively and has a knack for taking things slow. I felt that this is needed because sometimes it takes an outsider to see the bigger picture and to eliminate bias. Sometimes people need to be reminded or even told to slow down, look around, and just be. Of course there are things in that that I am actually needing to work on like just "being" but I think I have a pretty good way of just slowing people down and sharing a bigger picture. Anyways, I just felt really happy because I spend so much of my time and thoughts thinking about how I wish I could join the crowd more, or lead the conversations better, or whatever. But I'm needed just the way I am and I feel that is empowering. Now I can focus on being the best me and not worry about the other stuff. It comes on its own.
So I was about to skip writing tonight because it is so late but I'm glad I did cuz I forgot about that thought until I started writing and I think that is a significant realization the Lord blessed me with today. I'm grateful for this opportunity to share with each other each day and ask that you keep holding me accountable because it helps me. I expect you to write daily too!!
You are the cherry on my Sunday, the icing on my cake, the whipped topping on my pumpkin pie...oh my gosh I want pumpkin pie!!! Please send pumpkin pie somehow!
I love you most,
Your boo
Friday, October 23, 2015
The day I fell off the bandwagon
Today I swear I'm not doing anything! or didn't do anything, or mostly nothing.
I didn't exercise, I didn't avoid the amazing slurpee and salt n vinegar chips, I didn't get the kids after school because I went and got groceries instead(don't worry mom got them) and then came home to them playing happily with cousins so I made dinner, we ate dinner and then cleaned up dinner. Kids went home and I lay on the couch cuddled with the kids watching a movie. It was the super low key day. But I'm still tired, so not sure if I accomplished much but that may be the fact that it is now 12:30. I did get the cutie marks finished on the kids's shirts and I can't wait for the last two to dry so I can see the results. I still need to finish the eyes on the hats and get them glued on and make tails for them but then I think all six are officially completed. My goal is to finish them tomorrow. With a whole week to spare!!! Go me! not bad for making 6 costumes.
I have a sniffily nose and keep sneezing, mom keeps trying to make me healthy with oils and they are probably working but I am still going to point out how yucky they are especially the oregano oil...
I am trying to stay busy and avoid thinking about the 13 weeks we have left apart with the hopes that it will make time go faster but it doesn't seem to be working. I guess October caused fairly wackily by but seriously still 3 months left!!! I am trying not to keep saying that this is taking forever!!! but this IS taking Forever!!! I am grateful that we got to come home and that Mom and Dad and Adrien have made room for our daunting family and that we get to be here to spend time with everyone so I am going to try and focus more on this fact. I want to be in the here and now and to enjoy where I am. I still miss you and am incomplete without you but I am happy to be here.
You are the burger to my shake, The fries in my Poutein, the Ice in my frozen hot chocolate.
Love your seemingly hungry wife
I didn't exercise, I didn't avoid the amazing slurpee and salt n vinegar chips, I didn't get the kids after school because I went and got groceries instead(don't worry mom got them) and then came home to them playing happily with cousins so I made dinner, we ate dinner and then cleaned up dinner. Kids went home and I lay on the couch cuddled with the kids watching a movie. It was the super low key day. But I'm still tired, so not sure if I accomplished much but that may be the fact that it is now 12:30. I did get the cutie marks finished on the kids's shirts and I can't wait for the last two to dry so I can see the results. I still need to finish the eyes on the hats and get them glued on and make tails for them but then I think all six are officially completed. My goal is to finish them tomorrow. With a whole week to spare!!! Go me! not bad for making 6 costumes.
I have a sniffily nose and keep sneezing, mom keeps trying to make me healthy with oils and they are probably working but I am still going to point out how yucky they are especially the oregano oil...
I am trying to stay busy and avoid thinking about the 13 weeks we have left apart with the hopes that it will make time go faster but it doesn't seem to be working. I guess October caused fairly wackily by but seriously still 3 months left!!! I am trying not to keep saying that this is taking forever!!! but this IS taking Forever!!! I am grateful that we got to come home and that Mom and Dad and Adrien have made room for our daunting family and that we get to be here to spend time with everyone so I am going to try and focus more on this fact. I want to be in the here and now and to enjoy where I am. I still miss you and am incomplete without you but I am happy to be here.
You are the burger to my shake, The fries in my Poutein, the Ice in my frozen hot chocolate.
Love your seemingly hungry wife
Love me wife
Dear attractive one,
I just love to read about your day and you tell your story. You make me smile and chuckle and hopefully not disturb the grumpy gus next door that wakes up overtime I make a noise. But it's worth it when I'm laughing with, not at, you. It was a Friday for me. My assistant had his promotion board from specialist to seargant so my morning was blocked off for him. So I got to sit in my office all morning and complete all of my OER stuff, and award packet, and pedo letter, and lots of CE and it was great! I wish I had time to do that all the time. I also unfortunately ate lots of peanut butter cups cuz they were staring at me with those longing orange wrapper eyes. My assistant passed the board so we said hooray. I then had an idea to have a bbq so we could hang and hooray some more and play guitar. I passed it by one of the assistants then he basically just went with it and put it together. So sweet. After getting buff in the gym I picked up meat and some non-alcoholic beer (by request of the others) and we had a fun time playing music and chilling. It kind of felt like being at home in a way. Just being around and eating. It was fun. Major Ho told the story of his childhood which was CRAZY. I'll have to share it with you. Now it is super late and I'm going to be SO tired in the morning.
I got my goal of my letter and CE and working out but not waking up. I will try to read my scriptures more now and hope not to fall asleep.
Tomorrow I want to sleep. That's my goal. I will workout with my trainer too and get my laundry done also but the rest is sleep. Yes, sleep.
I'm appreciative of the fortunate circumstances we have. MAJ Ho's story just illustrated to me that we are so blessed and life is so different for som many. We need to count our blessings but also reach out to make the world a better place. I also appreciate that we can make friends and acquaintances in different ways and something special happens when people get together like we all were uplifted by MAJ Ho's story. That would have never happened if we didn't come together like that. I think Heavenly Father made us to be social creatures that need others to be able to thrive.
I'm thankful for you, you make me thrive.
Hi five for thrive.
Love,
funny looking one
I just love to read about your day and you tell your story. You make me smile and chuckle and hopefully not disturb the grumpy gus next door that wakes up overtime I make a noise. But it's worth it when I'm laughing with, not at, you. It was a Friday for me. My assistant had his promotion board from specialist to seargant so my morning was blocked off for him. So I got to sit in my office all morning and complete all of my OER stuff, and award packet, and pedo letter, and lots of CE and it was great! I wish I had time to do that all the time. I also unfortunately ate lots of peanut butter cups cuz they were staring at me with those longing orange wrapper eyes. My assistant passed the board so we said hooray. I then had an idea to have a bbq so we could hang and hooray some more and play guitar. I passed it by one of the assistants then he basically just went with it and put it together. So sweet. After getting buff in the gym I picked up meat and some non-alcoholic beer (by request of the others) and we had a fun time playing music and chilling. It kind of felt like being at home in a way. Just being around and eating. It was fun. Major Ho told the story of his childhood which was CRAZY. I'll have to share it with you. Now it is super late and I'm going to be SO tired in the morning.
I got my goal of my letter and CE and working out but not waking up. I will try to read my scriptures more now and hope not to fall asleep.
Tomorrow I want to sleep. That's my goal. I will workout with my trainer too and get my laundry done also but the rest is sleep. Yes, sleep.
I'm appreciative of the fortunate circumstances we have. MAJ Ho's story just illustrated to me that we are so blessed and life is so different for som many. We need to count our blessings but also reach out to make the world a better place. I also appreciate that we can make friends and acquaintances in different ways and something special happens when people get together like we all were uplifted by MAJ Ho's story. That would have never happened if we didn't come together like that. I think Heavenly Father made us to be social creatures that need others to be able to thrive.
I'm thankful for you, you make me thrive.
Hi five for thrive.
Love,
funny looking one
Sleeping soundly... till now
I am terribly sorry that I neglected to write you before falling in to a peaceful dream state. I lay down beside Cora to help settle her and then found myself at 5 am with a cat walking on my face... strange how life works.
Well yesterday kept me on my toes! I dropped off the kids and worked out. I may have slacked on the weights, I think I used 12's, but I did do the full workout and I am feeling much better muscle wise. I stopped at the Pharmacy to grab some Birthday decorations for dad and put them up while he was finishing painting the house. It looks so much better btw... the paint had been cracking and pealing and now it is a bright and shiny white once again. Anyway!!!! back to the story of my day, We had to run to parent preschool after that and were only 1/2h late but still good. I couldn't shower because I spend so much time blowing up balloons but it was worth it :) The kids made the cutest shark hats for craft and preston especially loved them and chasing people roaring with his shark hat on.
Aubrey called and asked if I wanted to go with her to see grandma in the hospital. Mom had to stay home to wait for the plumber man to fix a leak in the basement so Preston got to stay and nap and Ava came with us.
Grandma was in great spirits and happy to see everyone. She is always so spunky and happy. Leanne came to give her a shower and a makeover so we got to visit with her as well. It was a lot of fun and a lot of laughs especially when Uncle Greg called revealing to us grandma's ring tone which was some sort of pop/rock mix of a random loud song. We cracked up and asked who set her ring tone but of course she didn't know so we set her another. good times.
We got home just in time to pick up the kids from school and made dinner before heading off to the museum haunted house Grandpa go to hang out with us in line but then had to head to a meeting so he didn't get to spend much of his birthday with us... good thing we celebrated on monday already:)
It was a lot of fun waiting in line and visiting with everyone and then going through the spooky museum. Preston was mainly confused with the whole thing and Ava was a bit frightened. the nice chainsaw man with the deranged clown mask kindly let the kids touch his chainsaw so the wouldn't be so scared. before he started it up again and showed us the way out. Izaac had gone through first with some friends. He is getting so big and independent these days!!
Well I did mu workout and didn't cry or whine so totally checking that one off... I fell asleep before reading my scriptures:( I am needing to rearrange my time of that one because I usually fall asleep or can't focus well enough because I am tired.
I drank much more water today,,,and had to go potty much more as well but I guess thats alright.
Today my goals are to clear out/organize moms bathroom and take out everything we have already piled and determined can be let go of.
finish the cutie marks on the shirts and do the eyes for the hats. Only 8 days till halloween!!! crazy!
I love the way you, love the way you love me, theres nowhere else I'd rather be.
Loves from your manatee in training
Thursday, October 22, 2015
Buffalo Wing Thursday
Dear Ali-Jo Jo,
Got up, worked out doing some circuit stuff with pushups and sit-ups and pull-ups. I then commenced speaking to you and the minions. Went to work, did a root canal, then a bunch of exams. Everyone has caught on to my PB cup fettish and I got three bags of peanut butter cups (well two cuz SSG Hoff kept one). Though I might die of PB overdose, I admire people who attach things in their mind with a person and then go get things for them. I know people like stuff but I often don't go out and get them it. Anyways, after work played some guitar, then sent the letters. Went to the gym and got talking about getting a trainer and the next thing I know I was getting a trainer. So I guess I'll try this again but this time after work and I have an actual appointment starting this Saturday. Older guy that seems cool and I guess will work you hard so a girl that was being trained by him says. That took a while so I never actually got to work out. Got some wings to eat and sat with some of the hospital folk which I know them from seeing them here and there a lot but not so well cuz I don't work directly with them or hang out with them so it is brave to sit with them but they are super friendly and I like them a lot. They left so my reaching out to someone out of the ordinary was starting a conversation with chaplain rees who is a cool guy from Polk and got to talk about him and his family and day to day work. It was nice for me, hopefully not awkward for him. Then as extra icing on that goal, one of the docs sat down just as we were about to go, he left to call his fam but I stayed to talk to her because she was by herself and she got to vent about some frustrations with a LTC that chewed her out or something. Anyways, I killed that goal (well, for most that would be normal but I thought I was stepping out for me). Then showered in our stinky showers and came, read my scriptures and now writing this so I can go to bed.
Okay, my goals are: 1. wake up again for the 3 consecutive day at 4am and do circuits/run 2) 20 min scriptures 3) try again at doing my CE 4) find something fun to do with my Friday night 5) get Ava her bday gift
I've been trying to do a lot more listening and a lot less thinking. My world so often centers in my head and even when someone is talking I'm interpreting it in my mind and thinking about what to say and this and that. If I just turn that off and listen, I've noticed that words just come out. I've seen my conversations are a little better and even talking is less stressful. I feel that I've been uplifting in some of my conversations today and i appreciate that feeling. I desire to be on the Lord's errand and to do so requires letting go of my own thoughts and desires.
It got late again. Can't figure out how this happens.
Trying to reflect on my scripture and "delight in the law of the Lord and ... meditate [on it] day and night."
Challenge: do the chicken dance with the kids in light of buffalo wing Thursday; video may be submitted
I'll pluck your feathers...again don't know what I mean by that.
Love,
Chicken boy
What movie does this character star in?
Got up, worked out doing some circuit stuff with pushups and sit-ups and pull-ups. I then commenced speaking to you and the minions. Went to work, did a root canal, then a bunch of exams. Everyone has caught on to my PB cup fettish and I got three bags of peanut butter cups (well two cuz SSG Hoff kept one). Though I might die of PB overdose, I admire people who attach things in their mind with a person and then go get things for them. I know people like stuff but I often don't go out and get them it. Anyways, after work played some guitar, then sent the letters. Went to the gym and got talking about getting a trainer and the next thing I know I was getting a trainer. So I guess I'll try this again but this time after work and I have an actual appointment starting this Saturday. Older guy that seems cool and I guess will work you hard so a girl that was being trained by him says. That took a while so I never actually got to work out. Got some wings to eat and sat with some of the hospital folk which I know them from seeing them here and there a lot but not so well cuz I don't work directly with them or hang out with them so it is brave to sit with them but they are super friendly and I like them a lot. They left so my reaching out to someone out of the ordinary was starting a conversation with chaplain rees who is a cool guy from Polk and got to talk about him and his family and day to day work. It was nice for me, hopefully not awkward for him. Then as extra icing on that goal, one of the docs sat down just as we were about to go, he left to call his fam but I stayed to talk to her because she was by herself and she got to vent about some frustrations with a LTC that chewed her out or something. Anyways, I killed that goal (well, for most that would be normal but I thought I was stepping out for me). Then showered in our stinky showers and came, read my scriptures and now writing this so I can go to bed.
Okay, my goals are: 1. wake up again for the 3 consecutive day at 4am and do circuits/run 2) 20 min scriptures 3) try again at doing my CE 4) find something fun to do with my Friday night 5) get Ava her bday gift
I've been trying to do a lot more listening and a lot less thinking. My world so often centers in my head and even when someone is talking I'm interpreting it in my mind and thinking about what to say and this and that. If I just turn that off and listen, I've noticed that words just come out. I've seen my conversations are a little better and even talking is less stressful. I feel that I've been uplifting in some of my conversations today and i appreciate that feeling. I desire to be on the Lord's errand and to do so requires letting go of my own thoughts and desires.
It got late again. Can't figure out how this happens.
Trying to reflect on my scripture and "delight in the law of the Lord and ... meditate [on it] day and night."
Challenge: do the chicken dance with the kids in light of buffalo wing Thursday; video may be submitted
I'll pluck your feathers...again don't know what I mean by that.
Love,
Chicken boy
What movie does this character star in?
Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Wowzers of a Wednesday
I started by working out this morning but I was running a bit behind so all I did was run... Get it... Well I was still super tired by that... Yes I know I am super lame but I can complain about my 1/2 workouts if I want to!! JKS I'll get over it when my muscles stop burning. I came home, showered, grabbed some food, and headed to the temple. The drive was nice to just stop and think for awhile. The session was nice and full. It was so difficult to sit though as my legs were screaming and my dress makes me slip around in the bench I felt bad for the lady next to me and tried really hard not to squirm around too much. I was thinking about the powerful effect they have when they cast satan out of their midsts. I think we need to do this more in our day to day lives, probably not to such a dramatic event but each day say aloud for Satan to leave and that We are followers of God. He weasels into our lives so easily and can cause such devastation if we let him take root. We need to pluck the weeds and allow only the good thoughts, actions, and decisions to grow.
My goals are to Pray aloud(my thoughts wander too easily when I don't)
Read 20 min
Drink at least 8 cups of water
Do my full workout without crying like a baby about how sore I am... Don't judge me for being weak!!
I have seen the lord in my life as I have been reminded of my temple covenants. I want to be sure that I am fulfilling my end of the covenant and working towards the blessings that I know will be there from my Father.
Justice, take me somewhere we can be alone.I'll be waiting; all that's left to do is run.You'll be the prince and I'll be the princess,It's a love story, baby, just say, "Yes".
10 points if you can name the song and artist... No googling!!
Love your leach
My goals are to Pray aloud(my thoughts wander too easily when I don't)
Read 20 min
Drink at least 8 cups of water
Do my full workout without crying like a baby about how sore I am... Don't judge me for being weak!!
I have seen the lord in my life as I have been reminded of my temple covenants. I want to be sure that I am fulfilling my end of the covenant and working towards the blessings that I know will be there from my Father.
Justice, take me somewhere we can be alone.I'll be waiting; all that's left to do is run.You'll be the prince and I'll be the princess,It's a love story, baby, just say, "Yes".
10 points if you can name the song and artist... No googling!!
Love your leach
poo poo platter
Dear Lollipop Lips,
Boy, I just have lots of new things to write about. Like how I woke up. Then went to work. Then did some work. Then came home... okay so there isn't much to write about. There was absolutely no patients this morning on sick call which turned out to be actually awesome and I got most of my pediatric letter done and started on my CE finally. I have the kids letters ready to go but the post office was closed when I got to it so tomorrow I'll drop them off. But because I have been staring at computer screens all day my head is pounding and am excited to close my eyes and drift away into candy land heaven (somehow that's a reference to your lollipop lips).
I did get my pedo memo almost finished, like stated, and the letters got close. Didn't work out today. Did read scriptures.
Starting today I think I'm going to text you my goals so I can a) be more accountable b) reference them through the day cuz I keep forgetting what they are.
Tomorrow's goals are...drum roll please: 1) wake up at 4 am and do PT 2) drop off my laundry (woot) 3) read my scriptures for 20 minutes 4) do > 40 questions on my CE course 5) workout hard
I think I'm learning that everybody needs a buddy. I have always been one to just do my thing. I have my own plan and my own agenda and want to get certain things done and accomplish certain goals and it makes it hard or I just find it inconvenient to try to incorporate other people into my time. But I think there is something to giving up part of my plans to include others. I think that just like going to the gym is necessary for physical health, hanging out is necessary for emotional health and we need to make time for all of it. Everything is connected and one is only as healthy as their weakest point. Normally, you are that for me, but you're not around. I feel I still get a lot from speaking on the phone and writing, but I think my emotional health needs more. I feel emotionally tired or out of shape so to speak, like I just don't want to talk to anyone more than necessary.
So add to my goals to interact with someone somehow out of the ordinary routine.
I'm excited for the kids to get their letter.
I'm glad you went to the temple today.
I'm grateful you can be with them and finding ways to love them more.
You're my tootsie pop (ha, I like the word tootsie)
Love,
Your Honey Bunches of Oats
Boy, I just have lots of new things to write about. Like how I woke up. Then went to work. Then did some work. Then came home... okay so there isn't much to write about. There was absolutely no patients this morning on sick call which turned out to be actually awesome and I got most of my pediatric letter done and started on my CE finally. I have the kids letters ready to go but the post office was closed when I got to it so tomorrow I'll drop them off. But because I have been staring at computer screens all day my head is pounding and am excited to close my eyes and drift away into candy land heaven (somehow that's a reference to your lollipop lips).
I did get my pedo memo almost finished, like stated, and the letters got close. Didn't work out today. Did read scriptures.
Starting today I think I'm going to text you my goals so I can a) be more accountable b) reference them through the day cuz I keep forgetting what they are.
Tomorrow's goals are...drum roll please: 1) wake up at 4 am and do PT 2) drop off my laundry (woot) 3) read my scriptures for 20 minutes 4) do > 40 questions on my CE course 5) workout hard
I think I'm learning that everybody needs a buddy. I have always been one to just do my thing. I have my own plan and my own agenda and want to get certain things done and accomplish certain goals and it makes it hard or I just find it inconvenient to try to incorporate other people into my time. But I think there is something to giving up part of my plans to include others. I think that just like going to the gym is necessary for physical health, hanging out is necessary for emotional health and we need to make time for all of it. Everything is connected and one is only as healthy as their weakest point. Normally, you are that for me, but you're not around. I feel I still get a lot from speaking on the phone and writing, but I think my emotional health needs more. I feel emotionally tired or out of shape so to speak, like I just don't want to talk to anyone more than necessary.
So add to my goals to interact with someone somehow out of the ordinary routine.
I'm excited for the kids to get their letter.
I'm glad you went to the temple today.
I'm grateful you can be with them and finding ways to love them more.
You're my tootsie pop (ha, I like the word tootsie)
Love,
Your Honey Bunches of Oats
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
One potato, two potato, three potato, four
Sometimes I like to be Clever,
but other times I just think "whatever"
I seem to like juice,
but not dogs in shoes
but to me you'll never be better.
You're welcome for that little gem, my tired brain just came up with it in like an hour!! ok like two minutes but thats cool.
I halfway met my goal today. Izaac was much more pleasant and kind. I am not sure what the change was but I am thinking it has to do with the $9 that he earned from grandma. He promptly went to the store and... spent it all. But he at least got some christmas shopping out of the way. He bought Cora and Buddy presents. It is nice that he is willing and excited to use his own money to get something for them. Partially I think he just really likes to spend money and doesn't actually care what he buys but it is still a nice gesture.
We went to the lions park after the kids got home from school. It was nice to spend an hour out of the house even if we couldn't sit in the shade because it was so cold. It is definitely crisp and I am trying to enjoy it on your behalf as I know you would be loving it right now. Try to endure the heat for me because you know I would love it:)
I tried to spend a positive moment with each of the kids today and I think I did alright playing princess dresses with Ava at Stay n play, Snuggling with buddy before nap, and bed. Pushing Izaac on the swing at the park and a slightly lamer attempt for cora tucking her in bed. It is difficult because Cora is always happily playing or doing something and I have to budge in for my chance and I know I should more. At the park she quickly made a friend and happily played with her. At home Grandma had her reading books before I had Preston and Ava dressed from their bath. I need to be quicker on the draw if I want my turn to spend time with Miss Cora:)
My goals are to attend the temple tomorrow and to stay focused and attentive with an effort to learn something new.
Read scriptures, Workout, and smile more.
I love to read about your day and even thought you may not be coming home early I feel like I have already made peace with January 21st and can live with it quite easily... any longer and we may have problems;)
I am completely sore and ready to rest in my lumpy bed with flat pillows... or maybe it just feels extra uncomfortable because I am sore as I usually don't mind it so much. Either way I am ecstatic to be heading to bed right now and the only thing that could heighten my joy is if you were there with me.
Love from, the wind under your wings
Your windy lover, Me
but other times I just think "whatever"
I seem to like juice,
but not dogs in shoes
but to me you'll never be better.
You're welcome for that little gem, my tired brain just came up with it in like an hour!! ok like two minutes but thats cool.
I halfway met my goal today. Izaac was much more pleasant and kind. I am not sure what the change was but I am thinking it has to do with the $9 that he earned from grandma. He promptly went to the store and... spent it all. But he at least got some christmas shopping out of the way. He bought Cora and Buddy presents. It is nice that he is willing and excited to use his own money to get something for them. Partially I think he just really likes to spend money and doesn't actually care what he buys but it is still a nice gesture.
We went to the lions park after the kids got home from school. It was nice to spend an hour out of the house even if we couldn't sit in the shade because it was so cold. It is definitely crisp and I am trying to enjoy it on your behalf as I know you would be loving it right now. Try to endure the heat for me because you know I would love it:)
I tried to spend a positive moment with each of the kids today and I think I did alright playing princess dresses with Ava at Stay n play, Snuggling with buddy before nap, and bed. Pushing Izaac on the swing at the park and a slightly lamer attempt for cora tucking her in bed. It is difficult because Cora is always happily playing or doing something and I have to budge in for my chance and I know I should more. At the park she quickly made a friend and happily played with her. At home Grandma had her reading books before I had Preston and Ava dressed from their bath. I need to be quicker on the draw if I want my turn to spend time with Miss Cora:)
My goals are to attend the temple tomorrow and to stay focused and attentive with an effort to learn something new.
Read scriptures, Workout, and smile more.
I love to read about your day and even thought you may not be coming home early I feel like I have already made peace with January 21st and can live with it quite easily... any longer and we may have problems;)
I am completely sore and ready to rest in my lumpy bed with flat pillows... or maybe it just feels extra uncomfortable because I am sore as I usually don't mind it so much. Either way I am ecstatic to be heading to bed right now and the only thing that could heighten my joy is if you were there with me.
Love from, the wind under your wings
Your windy lover, Me
Just another manic...Tuesday
My Dear Sweet Rutabaga,
Not completely sure what a rutabaga is but have always admired them. I have always admired you too! So today was one of the hardest days I've had to wake up. Just did not want to get out of bed. Almost considered not going to work (not really but wanted to anyways). Work was work. Nothing new there. Everyone is enjoying the chocolate and decorations you sent. SSG Hoff seems to really admire how supportive you are and thinks a lot of the random stuff you send. I think he just really likes to eat it. I did wear the bow tie to do an exam on a patient. I guess I got selected along with a few other people from the clinic to go to a Thanksgiving dinner at some resort in Kuwait with the embassy. Sounds pretty sweet. SSG Hoff was pretty bummed he didn't get selected so I offered him my seat but I don't think he will take it. Sort of sad news is it looks like I will be coming home pretty much when I was supposed to come home practically to the day. We are expecting to leave at best 19 January from Kuwait but then still have a few days at CRC. Bummer but I guess that is what we expected. The bummer is that everyone else will be leaving before us. Just CPT Banks and my replacement won't get here until after. I'll just keep going to the gym I guess.
I read scriptures on the bus but of course that wasn't really a pondering place. I'm going to read some after this letter and choose another ponders scripture. I worked out. That's about it.
Tomorrow I want to wake up early again and exercise. Call you energized. Send the kids letters (I didn't have Izaacs today printed to send it). Get a good workout. And follow up with my personal statement.
I feel there was no time out of work today. At work, I felt like there were moments that I had to help SSG Hoff today and yesterday because he just seems down. I think his retirement is sinking in and he is getting stressed. One thing though is come out of our conversations and that is friends and acquaintances come and go. Even people we think we are so close to we will never lose touch we end up, well, losing touch. Life seems to place us in the paths of individuals to influence us or us on them but then life carries us on and we move apart from those individuals. The only exception is that of our families. Life may take us but our families are the only ones that get taken with us. No other commitment/vow/covenant binds you to anyone other than those that vine families together. That is why we must do all we can to ensure our family stays together and travels together, and, like you said, arrives together. There just isn't anyone else in the world that has any lasting significance outside of the family ties. I think the world has forgotten or been distracted from that and people seek relationships and lasting friendships outside of the family only to find that friendships are lost and people change and move on. But in the family, change happens together.
I love how our family wagon is moving with us all aboard.
You're the wheels on my bus and make me go round and round.
Honk honk
Love,
Your love bus
Not completely sure what a rutabaga is but have always admired them. I have always admired you too! So today was one of the hardest days I've had to wake up. Just did not want to get out of bed. Almost considered not going to work (not really but wanted to anyways). Work was work. Nothing new there. Everyone is enjoying the chocolate and decorations you sent. SSG Hoff seems to really admire how supportive you are and thinks a lot of the random stuff you send. I think he just really likes to eat it. I did wear the bow tie to do an exam on a patient. I guess I got selected along with a few other people from the clinic to go to a Thanksgiving dinner at some resort in Kuwait with the embassy. Sounds pretty sweet. SSG Hoff was pretty bummed he didn't get selected so I offered him my seat but I don't think he will take it. Sort of sad news is it looks like I will be coming home pretty much when I was supposed to come home practically to the day. We are expecting to leave at best 19 January from Kuwait but then still have a few days at CRC. Bummer but I guess that is what we expected. The bummer is that everyone else will be leaving before us. Just CPT Banks and my replacement won't get here until after. I'll just keep going to the gym I guess.
I read scriptures on the bus but of course that wasn't really a pondering place. I'm going to read some after this letter and choose another ponders scripture. I worked out. That's about it.
Tomorrow I want to wake up early again and exercise. Call you energized. Send the kids letters (I didn't have Izaacs today printed to send it). Get a good workout. And follow up with my personal statement.
I feel there was no time out of work today. At work, I felt like there were moments that I had to help SSG Hoff today and yesterday because he just seems down. I think his retirement is sinking in and he is getting stressed. One thing though is come out of our conversations and that is friends and acquaintances come and go. Even people we think we are so close to we will never lose touch we end up, well, losing touch. Life seems to place us in the paths of individuals to influence us or us on them but then life carries us on and we move apart from those individuals. The only exception is that of our families. Life may take us but our families are the only ones that get taken with us. No other commitment/vow/covenant binds you to anyone other than those that vine families together. That is why we must do all we can to ensure our family stays together and travels together, and, like you said, arrives together. There just isn't anyone else in the world that has any lasting significance outside of the family ties. I think the world has forgotten or been distracted from that and people seek relationships and lasting friendships outside of the family only to find that friendships are lost and people change and move on. But in the family, change happens together.
I love how our family wagon is moving with us all aboard.
You're the wheels on my bus and make me go round and round.
Honk honk
Love,
Your love bus
Monday, October 19, 2015
Monday Mahem
It was tiresome getting the kids up and put the door after eh weekend. The gym was closed due to the election so Adrien tok the kids to school. She is a blessing to have around and I am grateful for her small acts of service. The rest of us had a lazy day around the house. I finished sewing the last two pony hats and now just have finishing touches on each of them. I will be excited when Halloween comes and it is all done. and hopefully the kiddos will want to wear them when I finish making them.
I have been trying to Ponderize Exodus 25:2 it says "Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering." I liked it because Heavenly Father has given us the opportunity to serve and follow him and if we give our sacrifice willingly he will accept it. It is not enough to do what we are asked but if we do it with a willing heart we will be blessed. I am trying to grow a willing heart and to cultivate this pure intent within myself. I know the desire is there but sometimes I hold back. I listened to a BYU devotional from Elder Anderson he spoke about the passing of Elder Perry and Elder Packer. He also spoke a compensatory blessing for all the hard times that we have in this world. But like all blessings they are predicated upon our service and devotion to God. As we are living the commandments we will be blessed with the ability to fulfill whatever challenges we are facing.
Izaac has been really struggling with anger. I am trying to be patient and have patted myself on the back a few times for not getting upset but talking through his feelings and asking him to explain himself instead of assuming I know what is going on. He will be pleasant just long enough to get what he wants and then goes off the deep end if I say anything he doesn't like. I know he goes through these moods often and it has been a constant in his life but I wish I was better at knowing how to deal with it and helping him overcome these feelings and actions. I am frustrated.
I failed in my goal to spend quality time with each of the kids today although I did sit with each of them one on one at some point in the day I'm just not sure how positive it was. I will re commit myself for tomorrow and try again.
I have been reading my scriptures and am trying to listen to wholesome talks and broadcasts to get my mind focused on better things. It is amazing how much media influences me. The things I watch, read about, and listen to are the things I think about all the time. They even permeate my dreams more often then not. I want to fill my mind an heart with good thoughts.
I am more determined in my goal to attend the temple each week on Wednesdays and I am thankful to be in a situation where this can be a reality. I am greatful to mom and her willingness to serve and help me and do it so willingly.
I love you and I like talking to you. I want you to be surrounded by good things also. I want you to have good thoughts I'm sorry if I detract from that sometimes. I want you to know that I am completely and fully committed to us. I want to last forever. I want the blessings that have been promised if we fulfill our commitment with a willing heart.
I love our children even though they more often then not drive me up the wall and I absolutely love the silence at the end of the night but wouldn't trade it for the happy curfuffel that is our day to day.
You are the peanut in my M&M.
Love the fly in your soup.
- Me
PS you are a frog in this and love flies in your soup... just in case you were wondering:)
I have been trying to Ponderize Exodus 25:2 it says "Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering." I liked it because Heavenly Father has given us the opportunity to serve and follow him and if we give our sacrifice willingly he will accept it. It is not enough to do what we are asked but if we do it with a willing heart we will be blessed. I am trying to grow a willing heart and to cultivate this pure intent within myself. I know the desire is there but sometimes I hold back. I listened to a BYU devotional from Elder Anderson he spoke about the passing of Elder Perry and Elder Packer. He also spoke a compensatory blessing for all the hard times that we have in this world. But like all blessings they are predicated upon our service and devotion to God. As we are living the commandments we will be blessed with the ability to fulfill whatever challenges we are facing.
Izaac has been really struggling with anger. I am trying to be patient and have patted myself on the back a few times for not getting upset but talking through his feelings and asking him to explain himself instead of assuming I know what is going on. He will be pleasant just long enough to get what he wants and then goes off the deep end if I say anything he doesn't like. I know he goes through these moods often and it has been a constant in his life but I wish I was better at knowing how to deal with it and helping him overcome these feelings and actions. I am frustrated.
I failed in my goal to spend quality time with each of the kids today although I did sit with each of them one on one at some point in the day I'm just not sure how positive it was. I will re commit myself for tomorrow and try again.
I have been reading my scriptures and am trying to listen to wholesome talks and broadcasts to get my mind focused on better things. It is amazing how much media influences me. The things I watch, read about, and listen to are the things I think about all the time. They even permeate my dreams more often then not. I want to fill my mind an heart with good thoughts.
I am more determined in my goal to attend the temple each week on Wednesdays and I am thankful to be in a situation where this can be a reality. I am greatful to mom and her willingness to serve and help me and do it so willingly.
I love you and I like talking to you. I want you to be surrounded by good things also. I want you to have good thoughts I'm sorry if I detract from that sometimes. I want you to know that I am completely and fully committed to us. I want to last forever. I want the blessings that have been promised if we fulfill our commitment with a willing heart.
I love our children even though they more often then not drive me up the wall and I absolutely love the silence at the end of the night but wouldn't trade it for the happy curfuffel that is our day to day.
You are the peanut in my M&M.
Love the fly in your soup.
- Me
PS you are a frog in this and love flies in your soup... just in case you were wondering:)
Sunday, October 18, 2015
Sunday Funday
1:00 church still hasn't quite sunk in as normal yet. It is strange to get up eat breakfast get ready hang out, eat lunch get dressed up and then go to church. although it is nice that Preston gets a bit of a nap in there. Our speakers talked about enduring to the end. And dad spoke in 5th ward and read us his talk earlier in the day on the same topic. He told a story about being exactly schedule to be on time to speak in Del Bonita one week a few months ago when he saw someone with car trouble on the side of the road and decided to stop and help. It turned out to be Johnny Cook who as a recently returned missionary was his assigned speaking partner. He said how embarrassed he would have been had he arrived without his speaking companion knowing that he had chosen not to stop and help. It is the same with our families. If we arrive at the pearly gates "on time" but with out our family and friends have we truly accomplished our goal. One talk also included our ancestors in that and encouraged family history work.
It does't matter how fast or slow we are going as long as we are taking the time to ensure that each one of our children and each other are progressing towards our father in heaven. We don't need to be making leaps and bounds all the time sometimes baby steps forward are just as important.
In RS we talked about being a good shepherd. President Benson tell of the difference between a good shepherd and a hireling. One would give his life for his sheep, he knows them by name and cares deeply for them The hireling simply is there as his job. I feel like I lay somewhere in between as I have fulfilled my callings. I haven't given my whole heart but I am striving to gain a love of serving and gaining a love and relationship for each person. I was touched by this different focus to what I previously knew. I don't want to be just a hireling on the Lords Errand. I want to be a good shepherd and that starts by knowing and loving the sheep. Right now the flock I have is our own little family and although I think I know them fairly well I am sure that there is more they could show me if I allow them the opportunity.
My goal is to spend a few extra minutes with each of our kids one on one and look foe something new.
I did read scriptures with a prayer before and I am hopeful that as I continue and show persistence that I will be blessed with the knowledge and testimony that I desire.
I love you more then pickles and cheese together. ... mmmm.... that sounds so good right now!
I need to close as Preston just woke up screaming about wanting a sucker, I should probably go calm him down with some snuggling. I love that I still get to cuddle our sweet baby. Even though he is proficient in driving me crazy he is absolutely my baby.
But you are still my favorite:)
Love your queen of the night
It does't matter how fast or slow we are going as long as we are taking the time to ensure that each one of our children and each other are progressing towards our father in heaven. We don't need to be making leaps and bounds all the time sometimes baby steps forward are just as important.
In RS we talked about being a good shepherd. President Benson tell of the difference between a good shepherd and a hireling. One would give his life for his sheep, he knows them by name and cares deeply for them The hireling simply is there as his job. I feel like I lay somewhere in between as I have fulfilled my callings. I haven't given my whole heart but I am striving to gain a love of serving and gaining a love and relationship for each person. I was touched by this different focus to what I previously knew. I don't want to be just a hireling on the Lords Errand. I want to be a good shepherd and that starts by knowing and loving the sheep. Right now the flock I have is our own little family and although I think I know them fairly well I am sure that there is more they could show me if I allow them the opportunity.
My goal is to spend a few extra minutes with each of our kids one on one and look foe something new.
I did read scriptures with a prayer before and I am hopeful that as I continue and show persistence that I will be blessed with the knowledge and testimony that I desire.
I love you more then pickles and cheese together. ... mmmm.... that sounds so good right now!
I need to close as Preston just woke up screaming about wanting a sucker, I should probably go calm him down with some snuggling. I love that I still get to cuddle our sweet baby. Even though he is proficient in driving me crazy he is absolutely my baby.
But you are still my favorite:)
Love your queen of the night
today is gonna be the day that they're gonna throw it back to you
Dear Oasis of my Life,
Part 2 of our suicide prevention class complete and now I am a certified suicide prevention guy. Interesting fact: Canadians made the program that we completed just today. Another interesting fact: there is a Canadian physician in the class that works in the TMC and I think she might be crazy. Nice though. But maybe crazy. Of course the scenario I acted out (where I was the victim, not the care giver) was of course the coolest. My situation was I was on a bridge (of course all of the scenarios or a bit morbid cuz, well, it's suicide prevention) and CPT Banks had to save me. My reasons were I tried out with my band to American Idol but got laughed off stage and it went viral so I kept getting cyber bullied by everyone. The band took off and I was left alone. Of course, the one thing that saved me was the fact that the Renassaunce fair was coming up and that I have mad bow staff skills, Richard got me to commit to coming off the ledge if I could show him some of my bow staff skills. Of course my Rennassaince name was Maximus Aeraleus.
After class I finished my letters for the kids I committed to. Hopefully tomorrow I can send them out. Otherwise I ate a hamburger and milkshake at the difac. Didn't have time for much else. But accomplished my goal.
Tomorrow I'm going to wake up at 4am, run, read scriptures, workout, and find one person that looks like they need a hug and give them one. I may substitute that with a nice word instead.
I realized during my class that 1) life is VERY delicate and many had experiences with others that it was just one event that took them from being completely stable to suicidal. We just can't take anything for granted and must keep an attitude of gratitude always, never get complacent, and keep a firm foundation beneath us and sturdy grasp on the iron rod because we never know when the ground my rattle out from under us or a gust of wind my sweep us up. 2) helping other people is sometimes a huge seemingly insurmountable task with great burden like, for instance, talking someone out of killing themselves. Of course not the norm but sometimes our service comes with high stakes and lots of pressure. Fortunately the greatest take away lesson I got from the class is that you don't have to fix them! just be there. That was like a revelation to me. Of course we learned certain strategies and a framework to follow and they are absolutely important, but in the end, it didn't matter so much what you said, it was being there and caring that mattered. In fact, just to stand there in silence is sometimes okay in certain situations. I thought that was really enlightening. When it comes to service, or being a missionary, sometimes I worry about saying the right thing, or worse, saying the wrong thing. But none of that matters. It just matters that you are there for them at the right time. This makes sense because it isn't us that does the service, or healing, or soothing, or fixing. It is Christ. If we can be there with the right attitude, we can carry the influence of the spirit which does all the work. We may assist it by providing the best environment to work in, but the work is done by the spirit. That little gem came like a huge relief. Being of service is as simple as opening your mouth. That's it. Let the rest just happen. And it works!
So I am trying to open my mouth more.
What a gift that we can hold to each other and hold to the never failing iron rod of the gospel. What a relief that even in parenting we don't have to worry so much about the exact words or tactics (though they can always help) but rely first on the sprit and second on just being there and showing love and knowing that that will always be enough. That brings a lot of confidence to me.
I appreciate you, that you're the mother of my children and carry yourself with love and with the spirit and divinity.
By now you should've somehow realized what you gotta do... I don't believe that anybody feels the way I do, about you now...I said, maybe you're gonna be the one that saves me....
Anyways,
Love ya!
Part 2 of our suicide prevention class complete and now I am a certified suicide prevention guy. Interesting fact: Canadians made the program that we completed just today. Another interesting fact: there is a Canadian physician in the class that works in the TMC and I think she might be crazy. Nice though. But maybe crazy. Of course the scenario I acted out (where I was the victim, not the care giver) was of course the coolest. My situation was I was on a bridge (of course all of the scenarios or a bit morbid cuz, well, it's suicide prevention) and CPT Banks had to save me. My reasons were I tried out with my band to American Idol but got laughed off stage and it went viral so I kept getting cyber bullied by everyone. The band took off and I was left alone. Of course, the one thing that saved me was the fact that the Renassaunce fair was coming up and that I have mad bow staff skills, Richard got me to commit to coming off the ledge if I could show him some of my bow staff skills. Of course my Rennassaince name was Maximus Aeraleus.
After class I finished my letters for the kids I committed to. Hopefully tomorrow I can send them out. Otherwise I ate a hamburger and milkshake at the difac. Didn't have time for much else. But accomplished my goal.
Tomorrow I'm going to wake up at 4am, run, read scriptures, workout, and find one person that looks like they need a hug and give them one. I may substitute that with a nice word instead.
I realized during my class that 1) life is VERY delicate and many had experiences with others that it was just one event that took them from being completely stable to suicidal. We just can't take anything for granted and must keep an attitude of gratitude always, never get complacent, and keep a firm foundation beneath us and sturdy grasp on the iron rod because we never know when the ground my rattle out from under us or a gust of wind my sweep us up. 2) helping other people is sometimes a huge seemingly insurmountable task with great burden like, for instance, talking someone out of killing themselves. Of course not the norm but sometimes our service comes with high stakes and lots of pressure. Fortunately the greatest take away lesson I got from the class is that you don't have to fix them! just be there. That was like a revelation to me. Of course we learned certain strategies and a framework to follow and they are absolutely important, but in the end, it didn't matter so much what you said, it was being there and caring that mattered. In fact, just to stand there in silence is sometimes okay in certain situations. I thought that was really enlightening. When it comes to service, or being a missionary, sometimes I worry about saying the right thing, or worse, saying the wrong thing. But none of that matters. It just matters that you are there for them at the right time. This makes sense because it isn't us that does the service, or healing, or soothing, or fixing. It is Christ. If we can be there with the right attitude, we can carry the influence of the spirit which does all the work. We may assist it by providing the best environment to work in, but the work is done by the spirit. That little gem came like a huge relief. Being of service is as simple as opening your mouth. That's it. Let the rest just happen. And it works!
So I am trying to open my mouth more.
What a gift that we can hold to each other and hold to the never failing iron rod of the gospel. What a relief that even in parenting we don't have to worry so much about the exact words or tactics (though they can always help) but rely first on the sprit and second on just being there and showing love and knowing that that will always be enough. That brings a lot of confidence to me.
I appreciate you, that you're the mother of my children and carry yourself with love and with the spirit and divinity.
By now you should've somehow realized what you gotta do... I don't believe that anybody feels the way I do, about you now...I said, maybe you're gonna be the one that saves me....
Anyways,
Love ya!
Saturday, October 17, 2015
busy lazy day
To my Justice of the peace
We got up early, ok it was like 8:30 and got all the kids dressed and out the door for our big movie outing. There were 4 movies to choose from and tables lined with "kids meals" popcorn pop treat boxes. so we grabbed a bunch and went in to watch movies. We all split up based on the movie we wanted to watch and it was fun.
After we grabbed a pizza before heading to Walmart. I just handed Izaac money and he goes up and orders it. I love how confident he is and how well he does at those sorts of things. I remember when he was younger and I forced him to ask for something at the McDonalds counter He was so nervous but also really wanted to do it at the same time. I think we spent at least a 1/2h going back and forth between him wanting whatever it was and me saying well if you want it then just ask them for it. I think he finally did it and was so stoked about it. He has gotten better since. I love that little man and all the ways he is growing up.
We did our think at Walmart and then headed home and did nothing for the rest of the day. Mom and dad went in to a movie and Adrien was out with friends so we had the place to ourselves. I love moments like this. I appreciate everyone and all they have done for us but it is so nice to just be our family. I got the dishes finished and the kitchen looking great while the kiddos picked up the living room. I need to provide them more opportunities to be responsible they enjoy the challenge and I like working together as a family to improve our house.
We had an earlier bedtime due to our late few nights and they did well. Cora and Ava stayed up a bit later but the boys went right to sleep. or at least they were quieter.
My goal is to study the scriptures and I am not doing a great job. I read but I just don't study it very well. I am trying to pray before to bring the spirit and it helps but I am having a hard time staying focused.
I am excited to go to church on Sunday and I am hoping to feel the spirit and give a focus to my studies as I attend Sunday school and RS.
I am glad for any moment we get to talk to each other! I love hearing your voice and I am happy you are doing well.
I apologize that this is rather short and random but I left it too late and now my thoughts are wandering towards my bed and my aching body, could use a back rub if you know of anyone interested;)
I love you!!!!
and I am too tired to think of anything clever for my send off,
From your Alley cat?? no thats just kind of weird... never mind,
Just lots of love!
We got up early, ok it was like 8:30 and got all the kids dressed and out the door for our big movie outing. There were 4 movies to choose from and tables lined with "kids meals" popcorn pop treat boxes. so we grabbed a bunch and went in to watch movies. We all split up based on the movie we wanted to watch and it was fun.
After we grabbed a pizza before heading to Walmart. I just handed Izaac money and he goes up and orders it. I love how confident he is and how well he does at those sorts of things. I remember when he was younger and I forced him to ask for something at the McDonalds counter He was so nervous but also really wanted to do it at the same time. I think we spent at least a 1/2h going back and forth between him wanting whatever it was and me saying well if you want it then just ask them for it. I think he finally did it and was so stoked about it. He has gotten better since. I love that little man and all the ways he is growing up.
We did our think at Walmart and then headed home and did nothing for the rest of the day. Mom and dad went in to a movie and Adrien was out with friends so we had the place to ourselves. I love moments like this. I appreciate everyone and all they have done for us but it is so nice to just be our family. I got the dishes finished and the kitchen looking great while the kiddos picked up the living room. I need to provide them more opportunities to be responsible they enjoy the challenge and I like working together as a family to improve our house.
We had an earlier bedtime due to our late few nights and they did well. Cora and Ava stayed up a bit later but the boys went right to sleep. or at least they were quieter.
My goal is to study the scriptures and I am not doing a great job. I read but I just don't study it very well. I am trying to pray before to bring the spirit and it helps but I am having a hard time staying focused.
I am excited to go to church on Sunday and I am hoping to feel the spirit and give a focus to my studies as I attend Sunday school and RS.
I am glad for any moment we get to talk to each other! I love hearing your voice and I am happy you are doing well.
I apologize that this is rather short and random but I left it too late and now my thoughts are wandering towards my bed and my aching body, could use a back rub if you know of anyone interested;)
I love you!!!!
and I am too tired to think of anything clever for my send off,
From your Alley cat?? no thats just kind of weird... never mind,
Just lots of love!
Almost forgot
Dear Mrs. Pilgrim/Nisbit
Was just about to go to bed and forget to write. Good thing I remembered. So today I spent at the suicide prevention class. It was actually pretty good. I don't mind it at all and I like the discussions. Funny how some people have such a negative attitude about these classes from the beginning. But anyways, learned about some principles of intervention. First phase is to connect with suicide or to make sure that is where this person is going and they understand that is what you're talking about. Phase two is understanding their situation and exploring their plans and degree of intent. The last phase is to make a plan to keep them out of harms way for the time being. We will practice these all tomorrow. One thought I had was regarding practice, it would be fun to gear our FHE to more practice and role playing. I thought of bringing scenarios to FHE like "saying no to drugs" and have everyone role play saying no. If the person doesn't say no or says the wrong thing then the rest of the family would yell "intervention!" and they would come to that person's rescue. This way it is fun and also shows how we can help each other make the right choices as well as make them on our own. Just a thought. Going with that too, another FHE thought I had was to make all FHE lessons geared towards helping others. I think so many lessons are geared at a weakness of the families or what have you but that is always inwardly directed, if we focus on directing our children outward, they can solve some of their inward challenges themselves. Eg we can have lessons on how to help someone who is sad feel happy like what I've learned in this class.
Coolest thing today was I say a thunder/lightning storm, sand storm, and it rained!! And it actually rained for a while. It was so cool and they told us we had to stay in but I went for a jog in it because when else can you jog in a rain/lightning storm in the middle eastern desert?
My goals were to wake up at 4am and be happy. I accomplished my goal. And I talked to you guys, and I read my scriptures, and I wen running, and I did my work out. Funny how setting that one goal and I inadvertently accomplished all the other goals I've been trying to do the past 2 days but did not succeed.
Tomorrow I want to finish my letters for the kids.
Part of our homework was to do something to enrich ourselves. Well, Just before we got that homework, I saw a kiosk that sold art supplies. So I went and bought some watercolors and supplies and painted a picture tonight. I also tried to sketch Preston's face. Doesn't really look like him but maybe with some practice. Creating beauty and seeing it around us brings me closer to my Heavenly Father. I get so distracted so often but I am so grateful for the natural wonders like rain and the color of paint on paper that remind me of the awesome creative power that the Lord has and exercises all around us and in our lives even.
I hope you had a thrilling day and enjoyed movies with the kids. Love them up for me!
I look forward to loving you up as well!
With lots of stockpiled love,
Mr. Pilgrim
Was just about to go to bed and forget to write. Good thing I remembered. So today I spent at the suicide prevention class. It was actually pretty good. I don't mind it at all and I like the discussions. Funny how some people have such a negative attitude about these classes from the beginning. But anyways, learned about some principles of intervention. First phase is to connect with suicide or to make sure that is where this person is going and they understand that is what you're talking about. Phase two is understanding their situation and exploring their plans and degree of intent. The last phase is to make a plan to keep them out of harms way for the time being. We will practice these all tomorrow. One thought I had was regarding practice, it would be fun to gear our FHE to more practice and role playing. I thought of bringing scenarios to FHE like "saying no to drugs" and have everyone role play saying no. If the person doesn't say no or says the wrong thing then the rest of the family would yell "intervention!" and they would come to that person's rescue. This way it is fun and also shows how we can help each other make the right choices as well as make them on our own. Just a thought. Going with that too, another FHE thought I had was to make all FHE lessons geared towards helping others. I think so many lessons are geared at a weakness of the families or what have you but that is always inwardly directed, if we focus on directing our children outward, they can solve some of their inward challenges themselves. Eg we can have lessons on how to help someone who is sad feel happy like what I've learned in this class.
Coolest thing today was I say a thunder/lightning storm, sand storm, and it rained!! And it actually rained for a while. It was so cool and they told us we had to stay in but I went for a jog in it because when else can you jog in a rain/lightning storm in the middle eastern desert?
My goals were to wake up at 4am and be happy. I accomplished my goal. And I talked to you guys, and I read my scriptures, and I wen running, and I did my work out. Funny how setting that one goal and I inadvertently accomplished all the other goals I've been trying to do the past 2 days but did not succeed.
Tomorrow I want to finish my letters for the kids.
Part of our homework was to do something to enrich ourselves. Well, Just before we got that homework, I saw a kiosk that sold art supplies. So I went and bought some watercolors and supplies and painted a picture tonight. I also tried to sketch Preston's face. Doesn't really look like him but maybe with some practice. Creating beauty and seeing it around us brings me closer to my Heavenly Father. I get so distracted so often but I am so grateful for the natural wonders like rain and the color of paint on paper that remind me of the awesome creative power that the Lord has and exercises all around us and in our lives even.
I hope you had a thrilling day and enjoyed movies with the kids. Love them up for me!
I look forward to loving you up as well!
With lots of stockpiled love,
Mr. Pilgrim
Friday, October 16, 2015
Yay meh
Hello my heart of sweets,
Just a bleh day. Feel kinda tired and lack of drive. Had no patients come to sick call which was awesome and so worked all morning on my personal statement. Afternoon finished another root canal. Didn't finish my statement but got lots of good input from others which was very cool of them. Tomorrow i have my all day class on suicide prevention which I will be nice to know what to do if someone needs help but not looking forward to all day class.
So again, I did not run, workout but did work on my statement, still didn't get to my other letters.
Tomorrow, I want to get out of feeling bleh. I have one goal, get up at 4am feeling happy.
I also didn't experience much today to draw from. I was very grateful for the help others gave to me and did get to talk about the importance of having kids and encourage a coworker to start his family after he has many hesitations. I'm thankful that we took the "plunge" and started a family. Honestly, I'm not sure we even really understood or contemplated what we would be getting ourselves into when we decided to have kids. We just did knowing we were told to (well I guess I should speak for myself). I remember Elder Hammond telling me that we were doing things right and thinking 'I sure hope so because I'm over my head.' But when talking about it today I realize that yes, at least I was a little naive then, but it WAS right and I'm glad we did it. And yes, we weren't prepared, but now I know that never is ANYONE prepared for parenting. The only thing that happens is later in life you are more aware and can rationalize your way into not having kids. Of course there are somethings that get better with age and maturity. I think we developed more patience. I feel a stronger capacity to love than I think I did then which is a big thing for me and a huge obstacle I have. I think as parents we need to take less of a leadership role and more of a mentoree role - I think we have more to learn from our children than often we have to give to them. We learn patience and love and they learn to wash dishes and pick up toys; see what I mean? We give them the standards and parameters and let them develop in a protected safe environment of love and we watch and learn, and as needed guide or direct. I like you love and logic system and I think we need to respect that each of them are free spirits with their own agency. We could probably do more good by just getting out of their way and stand ready just to catch them in case they fall.
I got your back in all you do - I will even scratch your back if you need it; or rub your back... you get the picture.
You are my sweetheart.
Love,
You cuddle companion
Just a bleh day. Feel kinda tired and lack of drive. Had no patients come to sick call which was awesome and so worked all morning on my personal statement. Afternoon finished another root canal. Didn't finish my statement but got lots of good input from others which was very cool of them. Tomorrow i have my all day class on suicide prevention which I will be nice to know what to do if someone needs help but not looking forward to all day class.
So again, I did not run, workout but did work on my statement, still didn't get to my other letters.
Tomorrow, I want to get out of feeling bleh. I have one goal, get up at 4am feeling happy.
I also didn't experience much today to draw from. I was very grateful for the help others gave to me and did get to talk about the importance of having kids and encourage a coworker to start his family after he has many hesitations. I'm thankful that we took the "plunge" and started a family. Honestly, I'm not sure we even really understood or contemplated what we would be getting ourselves into when we decided to have kids. We just did knowing we were told to (well I guess I should speak for myself). I remember Elder Hammond telling me that we were doing things right and thinking 'I sure hope so because I'm over my head.' But when talking about it today I realize that yes, at least I was a little naive then, but it WAS right and I'm glad we did it. And yes, we weren't prepared, but now I know that never is ANYONE prepared for parenting. The only thing that happens is later in life you are more aware and can rationalize your way into not having kids. Of course there are somethings that get better with age and maturity. I think we developed more patience. I feel a stronger capacity to love than I think I did then which is a big thing for me and a huge obstacle I have. I think as parents we need to take less of a leadership role and more of a mentoree role - I think we have more to learn from our children than often we have to give to them. We learn patience and love and they learn to wash dishes and pick up toys; see what I mean? We give them the standards and parameters and let them develop in a protected safe environment of love and we watch and learn, and as needed guide or direct. I like you love and logic system and I think we need to respect that each of them are free spirits with their own agency. We could probably do more good by just getting out of their way and stand ready just to catch them in case they fall.
I got your back in all you do - I will even scratch your back if you need it; or rub your back... you get the picture.
You are my sweetheart.
Love,
You cuddle companion
Thursday, October 15, 2015
Ending the week
Dearest of the dearest deary dears,
I have had another busy day starting with getting the kids out the door and working out. I came straight home and showered and headed to parent preschool. I enjoy the class there it is a seminar about "Love and Logic" I have always related with this program and tried to implement many of their practices. Today we talked about allowing children to make their own choices and take ownership of their decisions. There are 5 steps when your child has a choice to make.
1. show genuine empathy - if they get called a name, they broke something, they want something
2. Ask them what they are going to do about it- this will almost always be "I don't know"
3. Get permission to give some suggestions - Some kids might... start with a bad idea because the first suggestion will always be thrown out.
4. Ask if they have a plan
5. encourage them in their plan and say "let me know how it goes"
I definitely want our kids to feel like they can come to us in any situation and that we will be there to guide them through any situation. Not to solve their problems but to help them work through something. There is so much fear in parenting knowing that we are totally screwing it up is always in the back of my mind but I am also hopeful that they are strong enough to overcome our parenting and see some good in what we are trying to do for them.
I finished Austyns bag and am now done all the bags i set out to do and only have two more pony hats to finish and the rest of the other costumes but it seems to be coming along well enough. I really just want to get it finished so it will be off my mind but it is nice to have a project at the same time.
I did workout, and practiced the piano with Izaac and Cora, Izaac finally played Mary had a little lamb all the way through correctly. It was awesome. I hope he continues to practice and sees little victories as he goes. Cora needs to straighten her fingers as she can barely push down the keys:) she is doing really well also and has most of the song down. She is doing well also.
Tomorrow I am going to workout, read scriptures for 20min, practice Piano, and enjoy our amazing children.
I am looking back at the day that seems so ordinary and looking for evidence of the Lord in my life. I am feeling a little distant and I know it is because I haven't been studying my scriptures. I have a desire to desire this but putting it into practice seems far away. I did listen to Elder Clarks conference talk about trusting in the hand of the Lord and I enjoyed it. There is just a difference in enjoying a talk and truly letting it change your heart. I did ponder that talk on the way to cutbank and felt the spirit of it but now am trying to bring back the inspirations I had had so I can act upon them. I have resolved to be consistent in reading and more important studying and will let you know how it goes.
I love you and am so thankful I got to talk to you tonight. Hearing your voice calms my nerves and brings me peace. I love you! do I say that enough?? cuz I do!
Love your adamant admirer
Love love love da da da
My Love,
I want to say that I really love these letters. They bring out a way of reaching out and into each other that just doesn't happen other ways. I think sometimes I just freeze up when it comes to saying things; I just forget or get distracted or anxious or what have you. But in writing, I can think and speak, and stop, and ponder. It feels so pure and so much more personal. I enjoy reading what you is close to your heart and feel close to it because of it.
My day was a day. I think I narrowly avoided a stomach bug that has been getting passed around. I have felt so tired the past 2 days so I tried to sleep extra and avoided doing some of my normal things like going to the gym and running. My stomach felt a little queasy but I think it is better and hopefully with one more good night rest I should get past it. Work today was extremely busy. I truly finished my first root canal since dental school (I have instrumented dozens if not hundreds but not obturated or completed any). I have committed the clinic to Movember (mustache november if you didn't know). I started my practice mustache today. I think you will be excited!
My goals were to workout: failed; go running: failed; work on my personal statement: failed; and I think write letter: we'll see how tired I am by the end of this. I can't believe how time doesn't exist. Because of the busy day, I didn't leave work until 6 and had to rush to get laundry before it closed at 7 (made it w/ 10 minutes to spare). Then ate dinner with the dental dudes and now I'm here.
Tomorrow I actually want to run, workout, and get some progress made on my statement and letters.
I have seen how the gospel brings stability into my life. Not so much just today but over the past week or so, I am in so many conversations with coworkers or patients about life and relationships and the dramas at work and around us and so often feel that I am the one offering up counsel. Maybe I just feel that way and I know I'm not the best at giving advice or articulating things but I do feel that in my life I have been blessed to have stability in these areas that are concerns for others. That is not to say I believe my life is better or more ideal, but just fluctuates a lot less. A patient today is going to be in Kuwait for 24 months continuously. He divulged that he is currently going through a divorce and also has 4 kids. I regret I didn't ask him if he had adequate support for his tuff times and I don't even think I gave him good advice except encouraged him to "stay strong" so to speak. I also told him in parting "you'll figure it out" which afterwards felt that was like "well, good luck with that, you're on your own and I hope you don't drown". But I sympathized with his desire to make things work out and the difficulty he was experiencing. A lot like Omar, he didn't want to let go but his wife had found someone else and moved on (I guess the guy is living in the house that he, the patient, bought with his wife). He said that everyone turns to him for stability when stuff doesn't work out and that's what I feel the gospel helps with. When stuff doesn't work out, we need a place to turn, to grab hold of and brace against. Something reliable and trustworthy and won't lead us astray. I can rely on the gospel and refer to it when I am ever lost or overburdened and it sets the standards and the bar for my to measure up to and be supported in my challenges. Also (now that I'm going with this thought) I read today about the parable of the talents. I had this thought before but was reminded of it again today. If you search "talent" it will take you to D&C 60:2-3 which talks about the elders going out to preach the gospel. The talent in this scripture is "opening their mouths" or simply the gospel. By opening their mouths they shared their talent and the Lord's wrath was against them for not doing that for fear of the people. So I believe that the parable of the talents is specifically a missionary scripture and our talent is the gospel. And to go off further, a talent was a form of currency, what spiritual currency is there? Spiritual gifts were the first thing that came to my mind. So I think our "talent" is the gospel that is received and exchanged by use of our spiritual gifts. So going back to being stable, when around others in their challenges, I think it is our responsibility to share our talent, the gospel, with them rather than hide it.
Okay, that was less thought out and more typing what was in my mind. Hope you make some sense of it.
I love you and am grateful that we can share our "talents" with each other. I guess with that being said I feel to tell you that I know that the gospel is true. I am so grateful for its strength and direction it gives me. I know families can be eternal. I know that the priesthood is restored through the prophet Joseph Smith. I know that Jesus lives as the Son of God and is the only way back to our living Heavenly Father.
I love you dearly and forever!
Your adorer
I want to say that I really love these letters. They bring out a way of reaching out and into each other that just doesn't happen other ways. I think sometimes I just freeze up when it comes to saying things; I just forget or get distracted or anxious or what have you. But in writing, I can think and speak, and stop, and ponder. It feels so pure and so much more personal. I enjoy reading what you is close to your heart and feel close to it because of it.
My day was a day. I think I narrowly avoided a stomach bug that has been getting passed around. I have felt so tired the past 2 days so I tried to sleep extra and avoided doing some of my normal things like going to the gym and running. My stomach felt a little queasy but I think it is better and hopefully with one more good night rest I should get past it. Work today was extremely busy. I truly finished my first root canal since dental school (I have instrumented dozens if not hundreds but not obturated or completed any). I have committed the clinic to Movember (mustache november if you didn't know). I started my practice mustache today. I think you will be excited!
My goals were to workout: failed; go running: failed; work on my personal statement: failed; and I think write letter: we'll see how tired I am by the end of this. I can't believe how time doesn't exist. Because of the busy day, I didn't leave work until 6 and had to rush to get laundry before it closed at 7 (made it w/ 10 minutes to spare). Then ate dinner with the dental dudes and now I'm here.
Tomorrow I actually want to run, workout, and get some progress made on my statement and letters.
I have seen how the gospel brings stability into my life. Not so much just today but over the past week or so, I am in so many conversations with coworkers or patients about life and relationships and the dramas at work and around us and so often feel that I am the one offering up counsel. Maybe I just feel that way and I know I'm not the best at giving advice or articulating things but I do feel that in my life I have been blessed to have stability in these areas that are concerns for others. That is not to say I believe my life is better or more ideal, but just fluctuates a lot less. A patient today is going to be in Kuwait for 24 months continuously. He divulged that he is currently going through a divorce and also has 4 kids. I regret I didn't ask him if he had adequate support for his tuff times and I don't even think I gave him good advice except encouraged him to "stay strong" so to speak. I also told him in parting "you'll figure it out" which afterwards felt that was like "well, good luck with that, you're on your own and I hope you don't drown". But I sympathized with his desire to make things work out and the difficulty he was experiencing. A lot like Omar, he didn't want to let go but his wife had found someone else and moved on (I guess the guy is living in the house that he, the patient, bought with his wife). He said that everyone turns to him for stability when stuff doesn't work out and that's what I feel the gospel helps with. When stuff doesn't work out, we need a place to turn, to grab hold of and brace against. Something reliable and trustworthy and won't lead us astray. I can rely on the gospel and refer to it when I am ever lost or overburdened and it sets the standards and the bar for my to measure up to and be supported in my challenges. Also (now that I'm going with this thought) I read today about the parable of the talents. I had this thought before but was reminded of it again today. If you search "talent" it will take you to D&C 60:2-3 which talks about the elders going out to preach the gospel. The talent in this scripture is "opening their mouths" or simply the gospel. By opening their mouths they shared their talent and the Lord's wrath was against them for not doing that for fear of the people. So I believe that the parable of the talents is specifically a missionary scripture and our talent is the gospel. And to go off further, a talent was a form of currency, what spiritual currency is there? Spiritual gifts were the first thing that came to my mind. So I think our "talent" is the gospel that is received and exchanged by use of our spiritual gifts. So going back to being stable, when around others in their challenges, I think it is our responsibility to share our talent, the gospel, with them rather than hide it.
Okay, that was less thought out and more typing what was in my mind. Hope you make some sense of it.
I love you and am grateful that we can share our "talents" with each other. I guess with that being said I feel to tell you that I know that the gospel is true. I am so grateful for its strength and direction it gives me. I know families can be eternal. I know that the priesthood is restored through the prophet Joseph Smith. I know that Jesus lives as the Son of God and is the only way back to our living Heavenly Father.
I love you dearly and forever!
Your adorer
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Going to the Temple
Alyssa and I got to go to the temple today and it was really nice to first off go with her and get to visit without kids around needing kid things but also to be in the temple with my sister
I love the Cardston temple because it was the start of us. I smiled as I walked past the sealing room where we were joined for eternity. Going through the vail that once had your hand pulling me through. Walking past the entrance where I saw you for the first time on our wedding day and being washed over with a feeling of peace and completely knowing that this was a foreverly great thing. I missed hearing you clear your throat as I sat in the session, picking out your voice saying "Yes" and getting to sit close to you in the celestial room hand in hand contemplating eternity. I think we need to renew our goal of going to the temple once a month. We have gotten out of it and I truly miss it. I miss seeing you in white:)
I just read through my goals and now just forgot them, I know the temple was one of them and playing with the kids. Ava and I accomplished that one with a rousing game of cat family "I can speak cat mom!, Meow meow meow!" although we are still working on understanding what we speak.
The temple reminds me of Gods love for me. What a perfect reminder of the beginning and our progression towards the end. I was thinking about when the angle asks Adam why he is offering sacrifices and he says I know not save the Lord commanded me. And right now I feel that is scripture study for me. I know I am supposed to do it and I have faith that it is a good thing and as I am consistent in faith It will be revealed to me but I need to be diligent in this moment just because it is a commandment from my Father.
My goals for tomorrow are to work our from 8:30-9
organize the bathroom cupboards
finish Austyn's halloween bag
and practice piano with the kids.
I regret not getting to talk to you but I am thankful for my busy productive enjoyable day. You are my sunshine, and I will think of you as the clouds of grey snow start coming in the next month or two.
love your eternal flame:)
oh I just looked again and yes I did make an effort to put my phone away and be apart of the here and now. I will continue on with this goal the rest of the week because it is so important.
I love the Cardston temple because it was the start of us. I smiled as I walked past the sealing room where we were joined for eternity. Going through the vail that once had your hand pulling me through. Walking past the entrance where I saw you for the first time on our wedding day and being washed over with a feeling of peace and completely knowing that this was a foreverly great thing. I missed hearing you clear your throat as I sat in the session, picking out your voice saying "Yes" and getting to sit close to you in the celestial room hand in hand contemplating eternity. I think we need to renew our goal of going to the temple once a month. We have gotten out of it and I truly miss it. I miss seeing you in white:)
I just read through my goals and now just forgot them, I know the temple was one of them and playing with the kids. Ava and I accomplished that one with a rousing game of cat family "I can speak cat mom!, Meow meow meow!" although we are still working on understanding what we speak.
The temple reminds me of Gods love for me. What a perfect reminder of the beginning and our progression towards the end. I was thinking about when the angle asks Adam why he is offering sacrifices and he says I know not save the Lord commanded me. And right now I feel that is scripture study for me. I know I am supposed to do it and I have faith that it is a good thing and as I am consistent in faith It will be revealed to me but I need to be diligent in this moment just because it is a commandment from my Father.
My goals for tomorrow are to work our from 8:30-9
organize the bathroom cupboards
finish Austyn's halloween bag
and practice piano with the kids.
I regret not getting to talk to you but I am thankful for my busy productive enjoyable day. You are my sunshine, and I will think of you as the clouds of grey snow start coming in the next month or two.
love your eternal flame:)
oh I just looked again and yes I did make an effort to put my phone away and be apart of the here and now. I will continue on with this goal the rest of the week because it is so important.
It is only Wednesday?
My sweet sweet sweet sweet sweet you,
Most eventful thing that happened today was just being tired. So so tired. Work was work. I was just tired. My assistant was sick yesterday and he was tired. Seeing him so tired made me feel tired. I took care of some patients. One or two of them told me they were tired.
After work I took a shower and used an "eastern" toilet. It is a toilet in the floor. More like a hole in the floor. It has little places on each side to stand and you are supposed to crouch over it. When done there is a dish sprayer you can hose yourself with. This was astonishingly high pressured. I no longer recommend using eastern toilets. I don't believe I have ever recommended them and I know I will move forward in the future not recommending the use of this style of toilet and associated dish washer spray hose nozzle.
My goals were to workout which I did not because of being so tired today. I honestly would like to have but I just felt I needed rest instead. I also wanted to work on my paper and letters but also was unable to get time to do these things. We had a clinic meeting after work and so didn't even get to leave work until an hour late. I hope for better results tomorrow.
Speaking of tomorrow: legs and arms. Run in morning. Start a conversation with somebody outside work.
I think it is great how you are looking for ways to do service to your family members. Doing even the littlest things I bet has a huge impact. I think you have wonderful examples there and I am blessed to have those examples in my life through you. I hope you take every opportunity and moment to take notes from some of the amazing people in your life and apply it to our family. Family is such a blessing and I'm so grateful for having the best family in the world.
Of course the center of my world is you!
You're so sweet I could lick you
(do you remember how clean my tongue is?)
Love
Sugar daddy
Most eventful thing that happened today was just being tired. So so tired. Work was work. I was just tired. My assistant was sick yesterday and he was tired. Seeing him so tired made me feel tired. I took care of some patients. One or two of them told me they were tired.
After work I took a shower and used an "eastern" toilet. It is a toilet in the floor. More like a hole in the floor. It has little places on each side to stand and you are supposed to crouch over it. When done there is a dish sprayer you can hose yourself with. This was astonishingly high pressured. I no longer recommend using eastern toilets. I don't believe I have ever recommended them and I know I will move forward in the future not recommending the use of this style of toilet and associated dish washer spray hose nozzle.
My goals were to workout which I did not because of being so tired today. I honestly would like to have but I just felt I needed rest instead. I also wanted to work on my paper and letters but also was unable to get time to do these things. We had a clinic meeting after work and so didn't even get to leave work until an hour late. I hope for better results tomorrow.
Speaking of tomorrow: legs and arms. Run in morning. Start a conversation with somebody outside work.
I think it is great how you are looking for ways to do service to your family members. Doing even the littlest things I bet has a huge impact. I think you have wonderful examples there and I am blessed to have those examples in my life through you. I hope you take every opportunity and moment to take notes from some of the amazing people in your life and apply it to our family. Family is such a blessing and I'm so grateful for having the best family in the world.
Of course the center of my world is you!
You're so sweet I could lick you
(do you remember how clean my tongue is?)
Love
Sugar daddy
Tuesday, October 13, 2015
one of those days
Hey Darlin,
we had a good start to the day getting the kids off to school onetime and mostly happy. Close slept over last night so she and cora were up bright and early this morning. I took Cloe with me to stay n play and Alyssa met us there soon after. We just hung around the house. Nothing special really. Got the kids lunch and put the babies down for naps, Cloe, Brigham and Ava walked to Grandma Harrisons house and visited for an hour or two and we visited here. Aubrey came over with some costumes to show, it is getting closer to Halloween,,, and November 1st... I am glad I got to text a conversation with you but it does pull me away from what is happening here so it is hard to know where to put the emphasis.
We went to Grandma olsons house after the kids got home from school and the kids had fun. She offered to give the kids piano lessons while we are here so we took her up on the offer. I am excited the first one starts tomorrow.
I can't really remember my goals very well. but I know I was trying to do something nice for Adrien and ended up just writing a note saying I love her, nothing too special but it is a start.
My goals for tomorrow are to go to the temple. Not waste time on my phone. laugh with the kids about something super silly and random.
I fave felt the lord in my life as I have watched how excited Grandma Olson is to spend time with these kids. she truly understands the importance of families and their eternal nature. I loved watching her defuse a fight between Izaac and Laci with calm words, a story from her life and then tickling. It seemed to work pretty well also. I appreciate examples of parenting that I need to follow. How many times do we just need to tickle the grumpy out of Izaac instead of punishing him. not that he never needs to be punished but he sure does get a lot that probably don't need to be there and could be defused with a smile and redirection.
I love you and hope you have a good day today. I want to know that I want you forever. I want to build something that lasts. 10 years seems like a long time but it is just the beginning of the plans I have for us.
You are mine! You are stuck with me, enjoy it:)
Your sticky friend, me.
we had a good start to the day getting the kids off to school onetime and mostly happy. Close slept over last night so she and cora were up bright and early this morning. I took Cloe with me to stay n play and Alyssa met us there soon after. We just hung around the house. Nothing special really. Got the kids lunch and put the babies down for naps, Cloe, Brigham and Ava walked to Grandma Harrisons house and visited for an hour or two and we visited here. Aubrey came over with some costumes to show, it is getting closer to Halloween,,, and November 1st... I am glad I got to text a conversation with you but it does pull me away from what is happening here so it is hard to know where to put the emphasis.
We went to Grandma olsons house after the kids got home from school and the kids had fun. She offered to give the kids piano lessons while we are here so we took her up on the offer. I am excited the first one starts tomorrow.
I can't really remember my goals very well. but I know I was trying to do something nice for Adrien and ended up just writing a note saying I love her, nothing too special but it is a start.
My goals for tomorrow are to go to the temple. Not waste time on my phone. laugh with the kids about something super silly and random.
I fave felt the lord in my life as I have watched how excited Grandma Olson is to spend time with these kids. she truly understands the importance of families and their eternal nature. I loved watching her defuse a fight between Izaac and Laci with calm words, a story from her life and then tickling. It seemed to work pretty well also. I appreciate examples of parenting that I need to follow. How many times do we just need to tickle the grumpy out of Izaac instead of punishing him. not that he never needs to be punished but he sure does get a lot that probably don't need to be there and could be defused with a smile and redirection.
I love you and hope you have a good day today. I want to know that I want you forever. I want to build something that lasts. 10 years seems like a long time but it is just the beginning of the plans I have for us.
You are mine! You are stuck with me, enjoy it:)
Your sticky friend, me.
Quickie
Dear Hot Stuff,
I'm going to make this short because it is a super late night for me. It was our last soccer game, we lost. I finally had my glory in the sun a bit though with my hand (or foot) on both of our goals. One I scored myself, and the other was an assist by me. So I felt good but it was still disappointing we lost. Even so we had tons of fun and afterwards several of us stayed to watch the next game and had tons of laughs. Like you, it does feel good to just laugh. I'm grateful for that.
I did get up and run and had a nice talk with the kids on the phone, especially Cora who was very excited and goofy. Isaac was trying to be the responsible one I could tell. I did do my workout but I didn't get any progress on my statement or letters. I should have planned those goals out better anyways because there was simply no extra time with soccer tonight. I went straight there and straight home (minus a subway stop - not the train but the sandwich)
Tomorrow I don't think I will wake up to run because it is too late. My main goal is to make time for my statement and letters, workout, and go to bed early I think.
I have felt the hand of the Lord as He allowed me to associate with some people and share some laughs and feel included and part of a team and a group. It was really fun to play on a team again and feel the commitment and energy of each other's association. Reminds me of the game of life and our teams we play on: whether the Pilgrim team, or the LDS team, or work team, or friend team. We have lots of teams that we train and practice and execute with.
I'm so happy to be on a team with you. Of all the "teams" I play on, your team is the most elite and my most favorite. We play well together and I think make for a winning team. Go Us!
You are so hot!!
Love,
Justicio
I'm going to make this short because it is a super late night for me. It was our last soccer game, we lost. I finally had my glory in the sun a bit though with my hand (or foot) on both of our goals. One I scored myself, and the other was an assist by me. So I felt good but it was still disappointing we lost. Even so we had tons of fun and afterwards several of us stayed to watch the next game and had tons of laughs. Like you, it does feel good to just laugh. I'm grateful for that.
I did get up and run and had a nice talk with the kids on the phone, especially Cora who was very excited and goofy. Isaac was trying to be the responsible one I could tell. I did do my workout but I didn't get any progress on my statement or letters. I should have planned those goals out better anyways because there was simply no extra time with soccer tonight. I went straight there and straight home (minus a subway stop - not the train but the sandwich)
Tomorrow I don't think I will wake up to run because it is too late. My main goal is to make time for my statement and letters, workout, and go to bed early I think.
I have felt the hand of the Lord as He allowed me to associate with some people and share some laughs and feel included and part of a team and a group. It was really fun to play on a team again and feel the commitment and energy of each other's association. Reminds me of the game of life and our teams we play on: whether the Pilgrim team, or the LDS team, or work team, or friend team. We have lots of teams that we train and practice and execute with.
I'm so happy to be on a team with you. Of all the "teams" I play on, your team is the most elite and my most favorite. We play well together and I think make for a winning team. Go Us!
You are so hot!!
Love,
Justicio
Monday, October 12, 2015
Goalie
My mouse is being super crazy and won't click when I want it to and is super annoying I may need a new one soon. So anyway I failed on a few goals, we were too slow getting to Bennetts this morning and didn't play football but I did get to bask in the sun and I did throw it once to Alyssa. Preston was really wanting to ride the tram but when he got on wasn't so sure but he hung on and was super cute about it. So no touchdown but there was fun had with family, so almost score one.
I tried to serve others but mostly I did what I usually do but in my mind I was doing it with a focus of service, Little things like picking Cloe up when her blister popped and piggybacking her back home or bringing Adrien's dinner to her.
I am a little self conscious around Adrien, I admit I have a hard time relating to her and many times her stories just don't make a lot of sense so I just nod along. She apparently having a hard time with us and is feeling overwhelmed with everyone around so uncle Lance suggested(which I am trying not to resent too much) that she sleep at Grandmas house for a while so she can have time to study and catch up on sleep. This in Adriens mind is freedom from having a curfew and can come and go easier and get lost on her way to and from her to grandmas house. But I overheard part of a conversation between mom and her on this subject and she couldn't say anything specific but she was just annoyed with having kids around. Mom was trying to say she is always gone and doesn't interact with them for more then 20min a day and so how can it be "so hard". Anyway I am trying not to be prideful about it and to just try and find ways to serve Adrien and show her love. I am going to start picking up and dropping off the kids at school. I really don't mind doing it but I am trying not to be vindictive about it as she has missed picking Cora up for two days in a row but look at it as a way to let her have her space. I don't know what she wants and I am really bad at communicating. but I am going to find a way to do something little for her to say I love her.
I looked up the lesson and am going to study it as soon as I am done here....
I don't remember if there was anything else that I was trying to do or not.
I love being here and looking at the scenery all around me. I love to look out and see so far in every direction. To see the stars. Little gems surrounding us in a dome. It is so beautiful and I just think how amazing God is to have given us the gift of such an amazing world to live in.
I miss you and hate that I haven't heard your voice today. I love getting texts from you,,, don't forget;)
Good night, Izaac is sleeping in my bed so it'll probably be filled with kicks and squirms as I will probably end up on the floor at some point. Enjoy your roomy bed:) Love you always!
It's all good
Dear Fabulously Faced Friend,
We went to Al Jaber today to see airplanes. It was pretty cool to learn about what other people are doing out here and see some of the cool toys the Air Force gets to play with. It's nice getting to hang out a bit but it still is kind of a 'business' relationship with most everyone, not too much buddy buddy. It makes it hard with the whole rank dynamic thrown in to the Army but any who, I had fun. Also my assistant agreed to growing a deployment mustache with me... just be prepared. I also wrote Isaac's eight year old letter. With my goals I woke up at 5am instead of 4 am but I did run, I didn't talk to you guys but am super happy to hear about all the fun you had! I'm stoked to try out some of these games with you. It is a bummer we don't have family to share those games with but I guess there are many other families that could benefit by us teaching them the games and having fun together! We will have to do more game dates! I did do my leg workout but I didn't finish my personal statement.
So tomorrow I will
again wake up at 4am and run,
have an awesome discussion with my family,
finish my personal statement
start Cora's later
score a goal in soccer (or also just have fun)
and do my arm workout
I felt a lot of peace when I ran as the sun was coming up and it was kind of cool even and I just felt very calm. I also felt really good when I wrote Isaac's letter. I'm super excited about these letters and can't wait to get them out to the kids! I appreciate the growth that I receive each time I direct my energy to building my family. I felt my testimony get stronger just writing my testimony to Isaac. I love how testimonies grow in the bearing of them. You mentioned it is so nice to be around people that talk of the gospel as a normal part of their lives. I think we could use to do more of that in our home. We may not have the community around us but we can have one in our home and create that community where we go. I'm also grateful simply that you come from such an awesome family and culture like that. I look to you as a source of, in Army terms, "what right looks like". I'm thankful that you grew up in that environment so you can bring it into my life and more especially our children's life. What a blessing you have to share!
I also feel blessed to have you. When I think of how well matched we are I am just amazed overtime I thing of it. Sometimes I wonder if we aren't the same people in different bodies. I feel we share so much in common and this is such a blessing because we can support one another and grown together in the areas we need to grow and what a bonding experience that is. I truly count my blessing overtime my mind catches thought of you!
You are my fabulously faced friend,
Your tenaciously toed toy boy
We went to Al Jaber today to see airplanes. It was pretty cool to learn about what other people are doing out here and see some of the cool toys the Air Force gets to play with. It's nice getting to hang out a bit but it still is kind of a 'business' relationship with most everyone, not too much buddy buddy. It makes it hard with the whole rank dynamic thrown in to the Army but any who, I had fun. Also my assistant agreed to growing a deployment mustache with me... just be prepared. I also wrote Isaac's eight year old letter. With my goals I woke up at 5am instead of 4 am but I did run, I didn't talk to you guys but am super happy to hear about all the fun you had! I'm stoked to try out some of these games with you. It is a bummer we don't have family to share those games with but I guess there are many other families that could benefit by us teaching them the games and having fun together! We will have to do more game dates! I did do my leg workout but I didn't finish my personal statement.
So tomorrow I will
again wake up at 4am and run,
have an awesome discussion with my family,
finish my personal statement
start Cora's later
score a goal in soccer (or also just have fun)
and do my arm workout
I felt a lot of peace when I ran as the sun was coming up and it was kind of cool even and I just felt very calm. I also felt really good when I wrote Isaac's letter. I'm super excited about these letters and can't wait to get them out to the kids! I appreciate the growth that I receive each time I direct my energy to building my family. I felt my testimony get stronger just writing my testimony to Isaac. I love how testimonies grow in the bearing of them. You mentioned it is so nice to be around people that talk of the gospel as a normal part of their lives. I think we could use to do more of that in our home. We may not have the community around us but we can have one in our home and create that community where we go. I'm also grateful simply that you come from such an awesome family and culture like that. I look to you as a source of, in Army terms, "what right looks like". I'm thankful that you grew up in that environment so you can bring it into my life and more especially our children's life. What a blessing you have to share!
I also feel blessed to have you. When I think of how well matched we are I am just amazed overtime I thing of it. Sometimes I wonder if we aren't the same people in different bodies. I feel we share so much in common and this is such a blessing because we can support one another and grown together in the areas we need to grow and what a bonding experience that is. I truly count my blessing overtime my mind catches thought of you!
You are my fabulously faced friend,
Your tenaciously toed toy boy
Getting Into Goals
Honey bear, Boo boo boo.....
Well I am thankful to hear Grandma Olson's talk today in church. We have been blessed to be here at such an exciting time, or maybe things like this just always happen around here. We have had two farewells, and one homecoming not to mention birthdays and weddings that we have gotten to be a part of.
I have missed getting to be at family dinners and enjoying laughing and talking with my family. It was good food and silly conversations. We played Roulette where you pick a category like colors. then the person in the middle chooses one and the people in the circle try to guess the one the "it" person has in mind. if they say the right one they get sprayed in the face with a water spray bottle. It was so funny and of course Izaac and Preston loved it a little too much:)
We also played a game where we put on headphones with super loud music and tried to guess a phrase that someone was saying to us. It was so hilarious. One we didn't do but mentioned was you sit face to face with someone and words, they could be anything back and forth and the first one to falter and not think of something looses and the other person gets to put a piece of tape on their face, like tape one eye shut or one nostril or something like that. so random and funny we should totally play games more when we get together. I am trying to remember all these fun funny things for when we get home and so I can teach them to you. The last one was everyone would write down a word, any word, and then we put them in a bucket. one person reads the words twice to everyone and then we take turns trying to guess who wrote which word. If you guess correctly then you are on a team. the person who gets the biggest team is good but you also want to be the one who none guesses your word. It probably makes much more sense when you play it:)
As far as goals I am going to study the Sunday school lesson tomorrow for atlas 15 min.
I am going to play turkey bowl football in costume with the Bennett family, and our family and score a touchdown,,, ok maybe just fave fun.
I am going to do one act of service for someone
one way that I have seen Christ in my life is being around an amazing family connected by blood and the gospel having conversations about the church in the same sentences as what we did last week. I love being around people who's lives revolve around the church and the Gospel. It has been probably since Rexburg that we have gotten to have such a big mormon influence in our daily lives and it is wonderful to share it with family. obviously it would be SOOOO much better with you but I am trying to be positive about that aspect.
I am trying to keep my thoughts pure and focus on being a better mom to these amazing little spirits that we have been given. I am so absolutely thankful that we have gotten to talk so much in these last few days. But it is so addicting and I just want to sit and hear your voice all day and night. I long to be by your side but am keeping my thoughts pure. I pray that you are safe and enjoying your visit to the other post. I want to have adventures with you and I am excited for all the ones to come.
We are meant to be together I am thankful for the blessing of finding each other, what are the chances!! It is an absolute choice blessing to be married to you.
Love forever, your eternal companion.
Well I am thankful to hear Grandma Olson's talk today in church. We have been blessed to be here at such an exciting time, or maybe things like this just always happen around here. We have had two farewells, and one homecoming not to mention birthdays and weddings that we have gotten to be a part of.
I have missed getting to be at family dinners and enjoying laughing and talking with my family. It was good food and silly conversations. We played Roulette where you pick a category like colors. then the person in the middle chooses one and the people in the circle try to guess the one the "it" person has in mind. if they say the right one they get sprayed in the face with a water spray bottle. It was so funny and of course Izaac and Preston loved it a little too much:)
We also played a game where we put on headphones with super loud music and tried to guess a phrase that someone was saying to us. It was so hilarious. One we didn't do but mentioned was you sit face to face with someone and words, they could be anything back and forth and the first one to falter and not think of something looses and the other person gets to put a piece of tape on their face, like tape one eye shut or one nostril or something like that. so random and funny we should totally play games more when we get together. I am trying to remember all these fun funny things for when we get home and so I can teach them to you. The last one was everyone would write down a word, any word, and then we put them in a bucket. one person reads the words twice to everyone and then we take turns trying to guess who wrote which word. If you guess correctly then you are on a team. the person who gets the biggest team is good but you also want to be the one who none guesses your word. It probably makes much more sense when you play it:)
As far as goals I am going to study the Sunday school lesson tomorrow for atlas 15 min.
I am going to play turkey bowl football in costume with the Bennett family, and our family and score a touchdown,,, ok maybe just fave fun.
I am going to do one act of service for someone
one way that I have seen Christ in my life is being around an amazing family connected by blood and the gospel having conversations about the church in the same sentences as what we did last week. I love being around people who's lives revolve around the church and the Gospel. It has been probably since Rexburg that we have gotten to have such a big mormon influence in our daily lives and it is wonderful to share it with family. obviously it would be SOOOO much better with you but I am trying to be positive about that aspect.
I am trying to keep my thoughts pure and focus on being a better mom to these amazing little spirits that we have been given. I am so absolutely thankful that we have gotten to talk so much in these last few days. But it is so addicting and I just want to sit and hear your voice all day and night. I long to be by your side but am keeping my thoughts pure. I pray that you are safe and enjoying your visit to the other post. I want to have adventures with you and I am excited for all the ones to come.
We are meant to be together I am thankful for the blessing of finding each other, what are the chances!! It is an absolute choice blessing to be married to you.
Love forever, your eternal companion.
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