Don't be afraid...

So I have just returned from my 3rd and final sewing class and just had to show my scary, appliqued bib. This took almost 2 hours! Of course, there was chatting and other silliness going on, but really 2 hours. It's so frightening that I don't blame you if you have to take a moment to wipe the tears of laughter (or horror) from your eyes. I, too, am wondering if this was time well spent. Though I don't feel like I have any seriously helpful sewing skills within me I will say that the class introduced me to 8 other girls my age from church which is 8 more than I knew before I started the class, and it has taught me to zig zag stitch with confidence. We learned a French hem and a blind hem, but I really don't think I could reproduce those if I had to. So I'm seeing this class as a blessing for social reasons and for comedy. So if you're interested I've got a really special appliqued bib with a toy soldier on it--you'll have to sew the back of it closed but I promise I'll give you a great deal on it. Ha.

Book Club Extravaganza

Here are the rest of the photos from last week's book club. We had two tables to house Jenn's fantastic fondue spread (notice the yellow tulips as well), here are all the books she made (except for her own). I know we've all gone on and on about how grateful we are and how fabulous it all was but really--wouldn't you agree? (click on the pictures for a better view)


**What sorts of gifts are your favorite to receive?**

Attitude

I'm wondering if there isn't something new starting here with all these blogs...a kind of blog peer pressure or maybe it's just an influence. Reading about Michelle and Jessie's weightloss plans, Amie and Christina's Sunday experiences, and so on I can't help but be influenced. (We'll have to see if these feelings move from guilt to action, but still.)

So my blog today is about my attitude adjustment. (But first I must tell you that now when I talk to Randy and am complaining about something i.e., the kids, he'll say "oh I feel a blog coming on.") Really, it's more my desire to adjust my attitude so that it's not at the mercy of whatever hormonal signal I get for the day. I sincerely dislike the fact that I can be soaring and jubilant one day and then absolutely apathetic the next. What's up with that? I quit drinking Diet Coke, surely there should be some stability and reward in that right? Perhaps a healthier diet (gasp) and dare I say it...excercise (now I've gone too far).

**What do you do to affect a change in your attitude?**

Reading Again

I've officially recovered from last week's Elizabethan overload and am now engrossed in another book. Bookclub Amy (I have 2 Amy's and 1 Amie in my world hence the clarification) gave me this book at our Christmas book exchange. I started in last night and am hooked. I've been thinking about it all day and can't wait to get all cozy in bed so I can read more tonight.

I know I asked what everyone was reading just last week, but several of us have moved on since then and then some of you didn't answer so I'm asking again...what are you reading these days?

Playing

"Childhood is the world of miracle and wonder; as if creation rose, bathed in the light, out of the darkness, utterly new and fresh and astonishing. The end of childhood is when things cease to astonish us." Eugene Ionesco



So "my best day ever" with Whitney may have been fun for her, but was a lot of work for me. I'm not sure when it happened but it seems I've completely forgotten how to play. It isn't something I know how to do or even like doing. I would literally rather clean the toilets than play make-believe with the kids. This is disturbing. Whitney built a big fort and I crawled in it (loved how huge I felt) and then layed in there until I felt like it had been enough time so that I could get out. (It was very hard for me not to focus on the mess the fort created.) We read books together (which I enjoy), but still it seemed like it was never enough. It's sweet she wants to be with me and I realize this will end all too quickly, but in the meantime I am going through the motions of playing and not liking it at all.

**What do I do now that I know I've forgotten how to play?**

Home with Whitney

Whitney has been coughing and snotty this week and we found out Friday she has a double ear infection as well. You'd think these symptoms might have slowed her down--but noooo. She's energetic and busy as usual. The only difference is she leaves a trail of tissues behind her, she has a raspy voice, and she coughs a lot.

So she and I are staying home from church today and she has just informed me that we will do so many fun things. Like, read some books (only 3 she said), make a fort, have treats in the fort, play cards in the fort, make a book (this means taping paper together and writing our names on it), and we'll have so much fun. This is cute, but what happened to lying on the couch listlessly and watching tv? She's pressuring me to "have the best day ever." Oh dear.

**What do you do on Sundays?** (Church, nap, hang out with family or what?)

Cuteness

The other night I went to Target with Jenn (after part 2 of the organizing class), she was showing me a pad of awesome scrapbook paper she had found there when I spied these cards. It's a deck of 54 cards with initials on them but they feel like playing cards and are the same size. They are all kinds of cute. I just thought I'd pass this info on. I think they were $3.99.

I also got these cute file folders--like $2.99.

Fresh and Fancy

I can't believe that after over 50 posts I have never confessed my love of cleaning. Certainly anyone who knows me well knows this about me already (some consider it a flaw or neurosis, but let she without sin cast the first stone), but if being cleaning crazed is wrong then I don't want to be right.

The laundry/cleaning supply aisle has always been my favorite aisle at the store (my kids now love it too--we breathe in slowly and enjoy). And I love finding new products to try. Of course, my affection for these products is smell driven. One time I ordered some all-purpose miracle cleaning stuff from an infomercial and found that it worked but was unscented so I never used it again. I enjoy the lemony fresh smell--not so much pine (it reminds me of public restrooms) or floral. I'm far too headache prone for anything overpowering but I love the clean, fresh smell of Mr. Clean. I also enjoy a bleach smell if it's not too strong (moderation in all things). So since it's Saturday and since Randy has gone to help Adam work on his new house I will be home cleaning (and hopefully creating some project later). I don't mind being stranded today (we've been doing the one car boogie for 12 years!), so in my warped world all is well.

**What are your favorite cleaning products and tips?**
(You can't imagine how much I'd love to know.)

Jessie asked for my favorite tips so after thinking about this overnight here they are. The best tip ever is that if you have a cordless phone buy a $15 headset so you can be hands-free while on the phone. My friend Amie got me hooked on this 2 years ago and it has been life altering for me. Now I can work while I'm on the phone, so folding laundry, emptying the dishwasher, making dinner, and wandering the house dusting things can all be done while I'm talking to a friend (usually Amie). This makes the work seem painless and the conversation more beneficial because there's no guilt about sitting around. I end up doing more detailed dusting of things like picture frames and baseboards because I don't even think about it because it's just something to do while I'm on the phone.

I guess my other favorite tip is to buy antibacterial wipes and to keep them under every bathroom cupboard. They are the best solution for daily dissinfecting and last-minute clean ups. I still clean the bathrooms weekly but the wipes are for in-between touch ups. The kids can do this themselves in their bathroom so that makes for far less gooey toothpaste-covered sinks. I also like how clean the bathroom smells after a 1 minutes wipe down. Costco sells these wipes in bulk and that's a great deal--they also have their own Kirkland brand for an even better deal.

Life's Little Pleasures

One of my life's little pleasures is good mail (I like sending it or receiving it), and one of my very favorite things to get in the mail is an order from Impress Rubber Stamps. They have lots of fun stuff, so a few times a year I order from them. I got this order in the mail on Monday, but didn't open it until this morning (I'm retarded)! That's unheard of for me, but I think the I, Elizabeth reading extravaganza consumed me so much that I actually forgot I had a box of goodness waiting for me. Crazy. (I would totally mock someone else if they had done this.) So this is all the happy stuff I ordered.

**What are your favorite places to order from online?**

Real Simple

I love Real Simple Magazine, each month I pour over it's informative goodness and aethetically pleasing graphic design. My March (can you believe it?) Issue came this week and this little gem was the thought for the month. It rang true with me and has given me pause as I think about it. I often feel like I'm destined to be one of the "have nots" in this life (as far as financial wealth goes). Sometimes I handle this well and am content with what I've got, but every now and again (generally around my PMS week) I tend to sink into a funk and see only how much everyone around me has. I hate it when I do that and I feel like I'm being ungrateful for the blessings I do have, but still in the back of my mind I'm thinking "but they have those too." So my question for today is...

**How do you find lasting contentment with your "situation" in life?**

The coolest thing!

Tonight at book club (at last that book is done) Jenn presented each of us a fantastic, handmade book full of quotes about reading, along with personalized paper choices, and details. The cover of each book had our initial plus a page from one of the books we've read (a different selection for each person), and then in the back of our books she wrote a sweet message about why she chose that passage for us. The book itself is a tremendously cool, creative and awesome gift; but add to that the fact that she made 6 of these all different and found 6 different passages that specifically fit each person, plus she finished our 618 page book for tonight, plus she made carmel, chocolate, and cheese fondue with tons of great dipping items (Nilla wafers, vegetables, fruit, bread, marshmellows, etc.), and she has 5 kids and she's the primary president (and the books were wrapped in a hand sewn bag)!! Out of control. She rendered us speechless (and Jana to tears) with these gifts. Thank you doesn't seem strong enough to convey the thanks and excitement I feel. Thanks Jenn!!

Finished at last!

The book is finished and now I can collapse. I am sick to death of Queen Elizabeth and her world (they were filthy), and I'm sick to death of me and my world too (not filthy, just neglected). I won't do this to myself again.

(Does anyone else think this photo is as funny as I do?)

Going cross-eyed

(Bookmark made by Michelle)




I'm fighting the droopy eyelids so hard right now. I've been reading all afternoon and am now on page 467 (there's officially a light at the end of this tunnel). I have part 2 of my sewing class tonight at 7:30 and I'm thinking that's a good thing to get me out of the house and to make me stop reading for a bit. I love reading in large doses, but I hate it when I leave it to the last few days and have to do it for a deadline. Crazy girl, plus I fear I may start speaking like an Elizabethan soon.

Blessed by Friends

Michelle gave me this little pillow a few years ago and I keep it on a shelf in my scrapbook room. I love this quote and totally agree. I think we cultivate friendships over time. I feel blessed everyday by my friends. I only have to look around my house to see gifts they have made or given me, cards they have sent, or things I've bought while shopping with them. I love this. I feel strengthened by my friends (especially on days when family life is challenging). I love my family and am glad we will be united eternally, but I really hope my friends will be there too.

**How are you blessed by your friends?**

Monday with Lori

Lori took the day off today to get settled in her new place, and I ended up spending the day with her. My mom offered to take the kids (hip hip hooray) so after the trek to Eagle Mountain Lori and I went to lunch at Pizza Factory (delicious), went to Costco (apparently Monday at 3:00 is the calm time there), Bed, Bath and Beyond (aka Maze of Home Goods), and Target (always heavenly) and got so much stuff that we filled up my Escape. It's a good thing we got this car, otherwise we wouldn't have been able to fit the bulky box with the new bed frame or the two huge storage bins Lori bought. So the day was a delight, Lori is hilarious as ever, and it was a treat to have the kids at my mom's so Lori and I could shop in peace. I got my Costco binders for the organizing class (part 2 is on Thursday night), bananas, milk, 800 sheets of white paper (Whitney uses this like crazy), 3 smallish storage containers from Target, a squishy pillow for Landon (50% off), and some pants hangers. All I can say is "good times."

For Georgia

Jenn's mom (Georgia) apparently reads my blog and has been intrigued by some of the questions I have asked (though she has not posted any comments, why not?). When I asked "Why haven't you started a blog?" she told Jenn she thought it was a selfish use of time because she had so much other stuff to do. I found her blog today (which Jenn started for her) and wrote this comment only to find out that I'm not a member of her team and therefore cannot publish a comment (even though my link is on her blog). So Georgia, I'm posting my comment here so that you will know what I think and that I am excited for you to be doing this.

Hi Georgia, I didn't even know you were reading my blog until Jenn posted that message on Saturday about you thinking blogs were a selfish use of time. It freaked me out a little bit, but then when I read the rest of her post about how it's not a waste of time and how she feels better just knowing that someone other than Ethan knows what she's doing each day then I felt like "yeah, that's how I feel too." So I'm glad she got you started and I hope you'll love it. I think that when you do get around to cleaning out the closets and putting the photos in an album you'll be thinking about it in a different way and know that you have people to share it with--and we will celebrate the accomplishments with you.

Reading Stupor

I am in a reading stupor. I have foolishly left my book club book until almost the last minute, so I am now on page 270 of 637 with 56 hours left to go. I know better than to do this to myself (for I'm not a fast reader and tend to get groggy), and yet I did not start earlier.

I took Randy to the bus stop at 7:15 this morning then came home and read for an hour or so, but then got sleepy and fell over onto the pillows and slept until 10:00 (oh the shame). I now feel like someone beat up (I was in the middle of a bizarre dream when I woke up) so now I fear I won't be able to shake it off, plus I have so much to read. At least I have a cute bookmark (I'm reaching here).

**What are you reading?**

Taking notes

Part of my church experience (for the last two years) is taking notes. In years gone by I used to write a thought or two down on the program or something, but I never had anything lasting. When we moved here I started a notebook especially for church. It has completely changed my experience. Perhaps this sounds obvious, but since I don't see very many other people taking notes I'm thinking that maybe it's not.

I find that it's easy to pay attention to whoever is speaking because I am immediately processing the information that interests me. The time flies by (no small feat) and I am giddy each Sunday with the results of my notes from 3 meetings. This also enables me to remember tons more information, to write down scriptures, conference talk titles, or any other follow up things I want to look up later, and gives me a journal of my church going. It's priceless to me. I have filled 2 1/2 notebooks and feel like I've accomplished something.

Today was no exception to the benefit of the notebook. We had a high council speaker and I feared it would be a long meeting. But he gave an excellent talk about our eternal priorities and I ended up taking 5 pages of notes. My mind didn't have a chance to wander at all, and I feel like his talk (and the others) were meant for me. They were all good, but that's a lot of information to take in so this way I can review my notes and perhaps even implement them (wouldn't that be something!). Anyway, I just feel giddy about this today and thought I'd share my thoughts on this good habit of mine (it may be my only one).

**What do you do with all the good thoughts and ideas you gain from church?**

Peaceful Sunday

We crammed a whole lot of work into Saturday and sorely need to rest and replenish on Sunday. Sometimes it feels like the week comes to a screeching halt on Sunday since we don't go shopping, don't play outside, don't work around the house, and the mail doesn't come. But mostly I feel relieved on Sundays. The phone rarely rings, church always fills me up with goodness and motivates me to keep going, an afternoon nap can be taken without worry or guilt, and we spend the day as a family (right down to watching America's Funniest Home Videos together).

**What do you do to replenish yourself after a busy week?**

Moving Day

Lori is movin on up to the West Side, to a deluxe townhouse not so much in the sky. And oh how we love helping her move. This is approximately the 6th time we've helped her so it should be a happy reunion revisiting all of her stuff.

The beauty of moving is of course the organizing of stuff and the starting fresh. I enjoy being rooted in one place, but since she's a young, singleton she's still fresh, fancy and full of life. (I sound like I'm near the grave--hopefully just an old soul.)

So that's what we're doing today followed by our rescheduled game night tonight at Adam and Amy's house (Settlers of Catan, Speed Scrabble, and Scum--good times).

**What are you doing today?**

Organizing Life

I went to an mini-class at church last night about organizing (Jenn and Collette went with me--thanks girls) and feel rather inspired to get going. The teacher focused on a binder system she uses to organize all her bills, receipts, important documents and ideas. She uses sheet protectors in each binder and files her statements in the sheet protectors. It's a simple idea, but I think it will prove revolutionary for me and Randy. I'm liking the thought of getting the binders and labeling them in a stylish way (that's always the part I like), but it will be so nice to have everything in one place, organized and accessible.

**How do you store your important papers and receipts?**

These cute binders are from russellandhazel, but I will most likely get cheap ones from Costco.

Delightful

It's a winter wonderland today. I'm not usually keen on large amounts of snow (what with the trechorous driving and all), but I have been annoyed that we've only had one serious snowfall all winter (way back on December 6th). This photo is from that day, but since I don't have a digital camera I can't take a picture of the kids outside right now playing in snow very much like this. We've postponed school until this afternoon (home school perk) and my neighbor kept her kids home so they're out front with mine. It's delightful. I don't have to go anywhere today so I say "bring on the snow."

If we have to go through winter then I'd like to experience winter-type feelings, it has been messing me up to have it feel like spring.

**What's your favorite season?**

P.S. The kids got invited next door for hot chocolate and inside play--woohoo. That means it's me and James Taylor Live going about our household duties in peace.

Home

I'm feeling a little neutral today (not so much happy, not so much grumpy, just blah). My visiting teachers came this morning and that was nice. School with Landon was challenging, but we finished our work. So maybe it's that I don't have anything I specifically have to do today and I'm trying to decide what I feel like.

I started flipping through my discovery journal (which has things I've cut out of magazines that speak to me) and this is the image that struck me today. I'm such a home body, especially on a snow falling, hibernation-inducing day like today.

**What (other than family) says home to you?**

The presser what?

I have just returned from my first sewing class, and must say it was much better than I'd expected. It's being taught by an older woman from church (in her basement). I had no idea who would be there, but since I don't know many people I decided it didn't really matter who'd be there. It turned out to be 8 girls who are around my age and just as clueless as I. It ended up being hilarious because I think the lady teaching it was expecting beginners, but not this kind of beginners. We made a really ugly pot holder (which I have to finish for homework since my machine was wigging during the class, but was better once I rethreaded it at the end). Next week we're making an apron out of a dish towel with a teddy bear on it and a pillow case made from Raggedy Ann and Andy sheets (circa 1970). It should be fun, plus it looks like I might actually get to know some of the young people in my ward. Woohoo. Domesticity has it's privileges.

A little bit lighter fare

Okay, was my morning post too depressing? I didn't mean it to be, just what I was thinking about right then. Our morning school session went well (very brief crying jag), then we made it through a trip to Walmart, then to Eagle Mountain, then back to pick up Whitney from preschool, then to the post office where I bamboozled them all by using the automated machine for the 4 packages I was sending. The line inside the post office was like 15 people deep and they are freaking slow over there (great customer service with 2 tellers open). I was in and out of there in like 4 minutes--it's the little things in life that make it all worth while isn't it?

So this picture is of some chipboard letters that are now being carried at Robert's Crafts. They make me happy so that's what I'm posting to lighten things up. You non-comment making freaks. (Oh, I love you so.)


**What is a "little thing in life" that makes you happy?**

Did I sign up for this?

The whole thing about having kids is a bit of a scam. Before having them we're smitten with each other and think "oh how cute, let's have a baby" not really thinking beyond the whole adorable baby stage of things. But then they get bigger. And the trouble is not just the life-sucking demands they make of you constantly, the real pisser of it all is the responsibility. Being in charge of them body, mind, and soul. It's a lot to do. I fear I'm failing. Landon is turning 8 this year (yes, 8) and has a way of looking right through me. He seems to want more of me than I know how to give. I thought doing school together would be a bonding experience for us (and to some extent it has), but it also keeps him home for many hours a day which allows him to hear me on the phone, read over my shoulder while I'm on the computer, and spend a lot of time by himself. I'm no longer sure this is a good plan. The academic side of this is going beautifully, it's the body and soul part that I'm now worried about. I'm so afraid of doing damage to his psyche by my moodiness, and my desire to do the things I want to do. I know there needs to be balance and I do feel like he's independent, but I'm really starting to feel like he's lacking something he needs from me. I don't think I signed up for this.

The last blog of the day

My day of solitude is over (boo, hiss) but it went splendidly well. I tackled some of the mess in my room, made 25 baby cards, wrapped 3 presents and got two ready to mail (for who you may wonder?), talked to Amie and Michelle on the phone, listened to 4 of my Little Women cds, vacuumed the entire house, and watched a movie with Randy. How about that?

I love my kids, but I really needed a break from them. Tomorrow it's back to real life, but it should be better after a day like today.

P.S. This was my 5th post of the day. Is that pathetic or productive?

My day's work

So my friend Lisa, shnockered me into joining another card group (I was in one for a couple years and then it kind of got lame.) So today while the kids have been gone I made this card (times about 20). I'm most excited about my successful sewing. I'm no seamstress and really don't know how to operate my machine (I'm starting a 3 week class through church tomorrow night), so even these 4 semi-straight lines were a big deal to me. Just thought I'd share.

Enjoyable

It's bliss to be in my scrapbook room cleaning up some of the piles that accumulate so easily. It's even better because I have this book on cd from Lori. Audio books are one of life's great treats. And referring back to my post about the books I read last year, yes I think audio books count!


**What are your favorite audio book experiences? And if you haven't had one, why not?**

Can you tell the kids are gone? My 3rd post of the day and it's only 12:40pm. Hee.

Thinking about...

Dr. McDreamy. Is it me or has he seriously touched a nerve (our souls, our lust, our hearts) or something? I was true blue way back in 89' when he was a geek in Can't Buy Me Love, so this is way beyond that teenage crush. My heart beats faster, and I swear I blush when he and Meredith are in the elevator together and he smiles at her. Please tell me I'm not alone. The piercing blue eyes, the perfect hair, it's too much. If I were a swooner, I'd swoon.

**How does Dr. McDreamy make you feel?**

Day of Solitude

You'll be happy to hear that I've recovered from my Saturday trip to Costco. It took awhile, but Sunday proved restful (though I did get a headache, after my Sunday nap, too cruel). But the heavens have smiled upon me. The kids slept at my mom's house last night and will be there all day today so I am hoping to restore my tired ears (the kids never stop talking), and my joy by spending the day in my scrapbook room. I read in bed for awhile this morning (delightful), and have been uninterrupted on the computer for a half hour already (unprecedented). I have unplugged the phone and have green m&m's on hand. The only way this could be better is if it were cloudy outside (it's too sunny right now and I find it blinding) and if I had good food for lunch--but I can get over those two things. I hope you all are well this lovely Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

**What would your perfect day be like?**

Swirling Vortex of Time

It's 10:16 which means we have 1 hour until we leave for church. I sit here with a towel on my head. Randy and Whitney have not yet showered. What are we thinking?? I have no business bloggin and yet resistance if futile. Perhaps I'm sabatoging myself (but why). Now that I'm on the Enrichment Committee that means I'm an innocent bystander on Sundays. That's a weird feeling, particularly when considering that I haven't been calling-free on a Sunday since 1996. Crazy. I don't know what to do with myself and I'm not looking forward to Sunday School alone (Randy teaches that hour). I'm a professional, I can rise above it, but still.

**What calling do you all have in your wards?**

(P.S. This is our actual church building. I took this photo while driving the other day, just to give you a visual. How bout that?)

Breathe in, hold it, now breath out...

So I went to Costco today. I should know better, I'm a seasoned veteran but still, I braved it. I was alone, no kids adding to the chaos of it all, but just getting in the door proved an accomplishment. Two workers were moving a huge line of carts across the doorways, thereby blocking like 20 of us from entering. (No, it wasn't annoying at all--if you like that sort of thing.) So I finally made it in the door, and had to shuffle behind the slow pokes fumbling with their Costco cards until I saw an opening and could bolt past them. I had a list and wasn't there to dilly dally. I got the AA batteries (check), the 24 pack of yellow notepads (okay, not on the list, but it's one of my mom's isms that I think is a good one), then I headed back to the bread/produce section and that's where it all went wrong. It looked like rush hour in Mexico. There was no rhyme or reason to it at all. I am a very courteous cart driver and tried to wait for a chance to merge into the mix, but there were people leaving their carts and running in front of traffic to grab large blocks of cheese--what was I to do? I bypassed all the produce (sorry family, more bagged carbohydrates for you) and headed back to the cleaning supplies for a brief respite. At least there I was able to grab the hulking pack of 30 Jumbo rolls of 2-ply Charmin (we don't scrimp on toilet paper) without incident. But as I headed back to the refridgerated section for Corndogs and Gogurt things got ugly again. There were sample tables everywhere and they did not smell good. I just don't understand how people seem to lose all sense of their environment when they're around tiny portions of edamame. They're like a deer in headlights. Their gynormous carts come to a halt and then they and their posse (they always travel in packs) surround the area thereby blocking the aisle and seriously impeding those of us who are just trying to get through. (If you are one of these sample eating people, then I guess we'll have to work through that together.) I NEVER, repeat NEVER stop for samples. It's a matter of principle for me at this point and I will not waver--especially on a Saturday. By the time I was finished about 45 minutes and $123.32 later I was exhausted. It felt like I'd experienced hunger, thirst, fatigue, and extreme annoyance all in the name of getting a huge box of Cheez-its for $4.88 (now that's a deal). After that I still had to maneuver past the cafeteria (don't get me started) part of the place which is always crazy. I did notice that they've added churros (oh, churros) but I didn't cause a traffic jam I moved on and out. I consider this a victory and am hoping a night at home and a restful Sabbath will restore me by Monday.

**What is the best day and time for Costco shopping?**

Michelle's style

I was thinking about how I've posted genius cards from Amy and Jenn, but that I haven't posted any of Michelle's designs. That is a disservice to Michelle. The girl has great style and can work magic with minimal supplies. I've had this card from her on my fridge since November and love looking at it daily. I love everything she makes. I'm trying to get her to join the bloggin world because I know she has lots to offer, but she's reluctant and currently scannerless (not that you have to have one--it's just delightful if you do.) If she would take the plunge she could post her greatness daily. Oh please, oh please, oh please.

**Should Michelle do a blog? Everyone answer please.**

Have a good Saturday. I'm off to run errands and hopefully get some of the cute ribbon Michelle found at Michael's this week.

Aesthetically Pleasing Treats

Just pause a moment...take in the beauty of entire jar of green m&m's. How do you feel? Calm, peaceful, happy, hungry? I know, it's a lot to take in, but let your body process this image. (This has become an m&m meditation.)

My friend Collette gave me and the 4 other members of our little book club a jar of m&m's for Christmas, and I got the green ones. She spent a couple hours sorting through 4 jumbo bags in order to give us this aethetically pleasing treat. We would have been thrilled with a jumbo jar of mixed colors, but alas we felt giddy about this monochromatic display. I also enjoy the ribbon with my initial hanging from it. So pleasing.

**What is your favorite treat? (Is this basic enough that you people will answer me? Sheesh.)

Step away from the computer

I think I have a problem. Since starting my blog and having friends and family start blogs I have become obsessed and am spending far too much time zipping around checking for updates and tweaking the details on mine. They say the first step to wellness is admitting the problem...but I'm not sure if I can handle being well. My new-found scanner skills have got me ransacking my garage and unearthing all kinds of old photos reminding me of phases of my life long-since buried in my subconscious. One could argue that it's not such a good thing to be digging up all these memories, but so far I haven't spiralled into a depression; it has merely made me want to dig up more. Perhaps I shouldn't tempt fate. Certainly a little balance would be a good thing. I mean really, my tv watching has suffered considerably with all this computer time (not to mention reading and sleeping). I'm going to turn the computer off, that's right I'll do it right now. But what if someone updates tonight...Lori usually does in the evening because she works all day and who knows what crazy time zone Robyn is in now that she's Down Under. I suppose I could wait until morning to check, but I'd hate to be the last to know. (I need help.)

Benefits of blogging

So it's 2:34 in the afternoon and I haven't posted yet today. That's because I've been on the phone the entire day (except 1/2 lunch break when my mom stopped by with Wendy's). I got a call this morning from Kristi Buchanan from Las Cruces, New Mexico (now she's Kristi Cutler from Franklin, Tennessee). We met as freshman at BYU and have gone in and out of touch (as people often do) through the years, but have recently reconnected and I've enjoyed two lengthy phone calls with her the past couple weeks. (This photo was taken in a car on our first trip to Las Vegas in 1989--good times.) If you're wondering when I'll get to the point...here it is blogging unites people. I have reconnected with Kristi and with Matt and Pam, and even family and close friends on a daily basis by doing this. So whether I have something profound to offer or not (most likely not), I think it's worthwhile.

**So my question for today (and will somebody please start answering these?!) is what's keeping you from starting your own blog?

I hope you all start answering my questions and I hope you guys start your own blogs and let me know about it.

Tag questions

I swiped these questions from Ali Edwards' blog and am passing them on to you all--because I would like to know.

Four jobs you have had in your life:
1. TCBY sales girl
2. Winchell's donut sales girl (a real low point in my life)
3. Data entry queen at several companies through college
4. Mother

Four movies you would watch over and over:
1. When Harry Met Sally
2. Sense & Sensibility
3. Annie Hall
4. Reality Bites

Four places you have lived:
1. Fullerton, California
2. Grand Rapids, Michigan
3. Provo, Utah
4. American Fork, Utah

Four TV shows you love to watch:
1. The Amazing Race
2. Arrested Development
3. Survivor
4. Numb3rs

Four places you have been on vacation:
1. Aliso Viejo, California
2. Nantucket, Massachusetts
3. Seattle, Washington
4. Victoria, British Columbia

Four Websites I visit daily:
1. Two Peas
2. Ali Edwards
3. Donna Downey
4.My fellow bloggers

Four of my favorite foods:
1. Lays potato chips with ranch dip
2. Beef tacquitos from Los Hermanos
3. Pizza
4. Roast with mashed potatos and gravy

Four places I would rather be right now:
1. Reading a book on a nice beach
2. Laughing my butt off at Betsy's house
3. Taking pictures in Europe (if I could teleport there)
4. Eating something tasty at a restaurant

Four bloggers I'm tagging:
1. Amy Maher
2. Lori Maher
3. Robyn Akenhead
4. Jennifer Nielsen

Pensive

I've been thinking this morning about a play I saw like 10 years ago at BYU called 3 Tall Women. Our friend Matt (who was a theater major) was directing it for a class, so we went to support him. (I usually don't enjoy theater because I experience high levels of anxiety due to my embarrassment for the actors who are pretending in front of so many people and for fear they will mess up.) Anyway, this play is about an old woman looking back on her life so the 3 women are her in her youth, her middle aged and her as an old woman (if I remember correctly). The cool thing about this play is that it feels so real. I guess I can relate to it because I'm always thinking things like "I never would have believed my life would be like this, or you could have never told my young self that I would let myself look this way as I got older." I don't mean this to be depressing, it's just that I've been scanning all these old high school photos and it has been making me think about who I was then compared to who I am now. I particularly love this picture of Betsy and I dancing in the rain. (So young, thin, carefree, spontaneous, and fun.) We were in her driveway washing our hair like an hour before our high school graduation ceremony. We look so carefree (and ridiculous) but I treasure this photo. It's currently my screensaver at home--and yesterday Whitney said "who is that little person in the blue?" I told her it was me and she looked at me like she wouldn't believe me no matter what. So my semi-middle aged self is thinking about that young self while wondering if my old self will think that's a waste of time. So my question for the day is...

**What will your old self think about your current-age self and what would your young self think about you today?

Share your profundities please.

Nice Surprise

This morning I was drying my hair when Landon came and said our neighbor Barbara was at the front door. I was slightly irritated that he answered the door, because what if it was a creepy person and I was there in my robe powerless and unfinished? Anyway, I went to see what she wanted and instead she handed me a bunch of flowers and a card. I was so surprised. I said, "what's this all about?" and she said, "just have a nice day" then she left. I was just baffled. I've been visiting teaching her since we moved in 2 years ago, and our kids play together often, but other than that we really haven't bonded much. So receiving anything from her was a big surprise. Her card was thanking me for being a good visiting teacher and friend. Wow. Who knew? What a nice thing for her to do. I'm wondering how often I think of doing something like that for someone, but then don't do it. It would be such a better world if we'd all follow through on those impulses and make someone's day like that. Hmmm. Anyway, in an attempt to make this blog more interactive I'm officially posing the question...

**What is the most delightful surprise you've had show up on your doorstep? Do tell.

I must also add, that the other great surprise that came to mind for me was the time last year when my friend Jenn showed up holding 3 packets of pictures of mine from Costco that she'd paid for and delivered to my door--it was such a great treat. Thanks again, Jenn.

Portraits

For school this morning our art lesson was about self-portraits, but the assignment was to do a portrait of someone else so Landon drew Whitney and Whitney drew Landon. These are the results. I'll say no more.

(It's not letting me post Landon's drawing at the moment, I'll try to resize it and add it later.)

Monday, Monday

I think Monday has a bad reputation.
I love Mondays. I didn't like them much
back when I had to work in an office or
go to school, but now that I stay home
with my kids (even though that means
a lot of work) I love Mondays. I like
getting things back in order after a
crazy weekend. I like getting the laundry
done, cleaning the house, starting a new
week of school with Landon, and starting
over with routine life. Call me crazy. The
one big challenge of my day though is
dealing with the piles of stuff in my
scrapbook room. I look forward to tackling
them, yet feel overwhelmed at the same
time. It's appealing though because I like
pretty much everything in here. Of course,
I wish I could double the size of the room
and have Pottery Barn type furnishings,
but overall I'm just happy to have my
own space, to think in, arrange, work, and
create in--so this quote caught my eye.
It's from an O Magazine.

Sunday morning

Randy and I have just returned from a visit to the Bishop's office where I was called to be a member of the Enrichment Committee. I had been fearing a calling to Scouts because Landon turns 8 this year and my next door neighbor just got called to be a leader and had gotten me worried about joining her. I guess there's a whole new program going on for Enrichment this year, so I'm not sure what my responsibilities will be. The Relief Society President is Whitney's fabulous preschool teacher so it will be fun to get to know her better and spend time with her.

In other news, I'm substituting the 6 year old primary class again this week. There were 7 boys and 1 girl in there last week. I was exhausted by the end, but felt that it went well. Hopefully today will too.

Bargain Books

Went to Deseret Industries this afternoon to find some books (I've found lots of great novels there in practically new condition). These are the books I got. Ten books for $9, plus I got Landon a pair of dark grey corduroy pants, and two dress shirts all for a total of $19. I love that. I just wipe all the books down with an antibacterial wipe and then I'm good to go. Not too shabby eh?