.

Before and Afters Part III

2011-02-08T15:32:00.001-06:00

One of the best things about living here in Pennsylvania is the basement!! It's always great to have more space to store 'stuff'. It's even better for the kids to have a special place to call their own. It's also a great place for guest to have their own space. Whatever the reason, having a basement is awesome!!

Here are some before and after pictures....

Here's the basement before....

Going down the stairs...

At the bottom of the stairs is a storage closet.

An open room. Well-water filtration is located behind the doors.

Full bath to the left.

Kitchenette. (With carpet?)

Walk out to the left. Over-sized fireplace in family room.

The only way the kids would move to Pennsylvania is if they could each have their own room. This is Mikenzie's room. The walls just need enclosed.

Looking from Mikenzie's soon-to-be bedroom towards the family room.

The family room. Isn't the ceiling lovely? Kind of a nice officey feel...

Now this carpet... Hmmmm.....Nice....

Here's the after pictures....

It's amazing what new carpet and new paint will do.

At the bottom of the stairs. Don't you just love this awesome ceiling? We did it ourselves. Easy peasy.

A game of pool anyone?

We completely redid the full bath. It's lovely.

I love this new Family Wall. We are blessed with a rich heritage.

A picture of the wall without the lamps.

Is this the same kitchenette? Yep! New slate tile. New ceiling. New refrigerator. New table. Old popcorn machine.

Love the wood shutters. Here's the walkout the backyard.

I think the biggest 'bang for our buck' was this amazing ceiling. It completely changes the whole look of this basement. Don't you love this new stone fireplace? What a difference!! The TV above the fireplace is awesome. Honestly, we don't really miss our old theater room.

Notice Mikenzie's now enclosed room at the back-left.

Looking towards the kitchen area. Anyone in the mood for a party? How about a movie?

Mikenzie's room turned out great! Bob did such an amazing job. Crown molding. Paint.

Love those wood shutters! Mikenzie has a great view to the woods.

This will always be Mikenzie's room. But, it's going to make an amazing guest room when she's at college. Anyone want to come for a visit? You can have the whole basement to yourself!!

Before and Afters Part II

2011-01-28T13:10:00.002-06:00

Here's a little peek of our upstairs....

At the top of the stairs is the perfect place for this large table. The tile reads, "It's easy to stand with the crowd. It takes courage to stand alone." Just a little daily reminder to make good choices. This beautiful Christus statue was a Christmas gift from my parents a few years back. I love it!!

Here's a look at Kellie's room before...

And here's a look at Kellie's room after...

Painted in Robin Egg Blue, her white furniture goes beautifully here.

Kellie and Sydnie are SO happy to FINALLY have their own rooms!

Kellie is growing up so fast. Yet, thankfully, she still is my little girl...

Between Kellie and Sydnie's room is their bathroom.

Here's some before pictures...

A very narrow bathroom and very uneventful.

Here's their bathroom after....

New light fixture. New paint and some new white, wooden shutters make a hugs difference in this space. Bob brought this rug back from a trip from India. It gives just the right amount of color and doesn't look so 'bathroomy'

I added this full-length mirror to the wall opposite the vanity. It does an amazing job visually enlarging this spot. To the right of the mirror is a large linen closet for towels and washcloths.

Playing off the red in the rug, I added this simple flower arrangement. There's no room for toothpaste or makeup left out on the counter now!!

I love this new light fixture. I much needed improvement from the old, round vanity bulbs.

I bought this mirror at an auction I went to with my friend, Tina, when I lived in West Chester, Ohio. I outbid someone to the tune of about thirty dollars. It was old, black and extremely dusty. I brought it home and painted it a beautiful gold. It is one of my favorite things. Sometimes, old is better!

Here's Sydnie's room before.....

Here's Sydnie's room after.....

Black and white must be the 'thing' for teenagers these days. All we needed to add were these beautiful wooden shutters.

Sydnie does a great job of (almost) always keeping her room nice and tidy.

The 13th Article of Faith is the theme for the youth in 2011. I love this framed poster. (Now if I could just get this girl to get her Personal Progress into high gear!!)

Here's a look down the upstairs hall and the laundry room before.....

How would you like to spend you life doing laundry in here?

And here's a look after....

New light fixtures make such a difference throughout the house. Not to mention the much needed subdued paint color. I took these pictures and hand-colored them in 1998 and 2001. These are truly a few more of my favorite things.

I LOVE having a 2nd story laundry room! Although this 'room' is not much bigger than a closet, the convenience of having of having the laundry near everyone's rooms makes it SO much easier to sort, wash, fold and put it away. (Can you tell how much I like laundry? NOT!!)

Bob put in all these cabinets, new sink and granite countertop. The cabinets provide much needed space for storage. This room is awesome!

Here's a look at Blake's bedroom before.....

Gotta love that purplish-paint...

Here's a 13 year-old Blake's room after..

Blake picked out his own bedding. (I might have added a few extra pillows...) We added these framed Scripture Hero posters - Samuel the Lamanite, Joseph Smith and Ammon.

Blake's room just wouldn't be complete without our beloved Texas star!!

And finally, here's the before of my master bedroom, bath, sitting room and closet....

The master bedroom was fine. All except for the turquoise blue ceiling. Thankfully, Nancy didn't waste any time fixing it.

A beautiful, gas fireplace. It comes in handy on these cold, Pennsylvania winter nights.

Two much needed storage closets. One His. One Hers.

Door to the bedroom. Door to the master closet. Door to the master bath.

Of all the bathrooms in the house, this bathroom needed the least amount of work.

The master closet on the other hand, needed a HUGE amount of work.

And here are the afters.....

Believe it or not, my bedding nearly matched the existing cornice boards above the windows.

My name is Dina. I am a Pillowaholic.

The sitting room. Let's just call it a place for a mom to escape to. What do they call that now? A Mom Cave?

The master bath was in pretty good shape. I still need to add a fresh coat of paint. Maybe next month.

A special gift from a special friend.

Aaaahhhhhhhhhh. And yes, I use it.....

After I paint, I'll add a new vanity chair.

Oh no. Not the dreaded scale!

And here's the master closet.....

If you've never used a steamer. I highly suggest you get one. So quick. So easy. So....necessary.

Bob's side.

My side(s).

A place for everything. And everything in its place. (Most of the time.)

Just Another Snow Day...

2011-01-27T14:31:00.002-06:00

It's the second snow day of the week. The best part of all? Sleeping in, of course! (Until you remember that your Handsome Husband is out of town and the responsibility of clearning the driveway falls to you, and hopefully a few cooperative kids...)

The view from the front door.

The view from the back deck. Those limbs are HEAVY with snow.

Kellie and Gracie on the driveway. I'm not sure Grace really likes the snow.

The snow is about 14 inches deep. And our drive way is LONG. Let's get to it. Got my boots on, my gloves on, my sunglasses on and my IPOD in my ears...

This snow was deep and very heavy. This is going to take a while. Where,oh where is Bob when I need him?

The streets have already been plowed. Now I just need to be able to get down to them.

Lucky for us, we have a VERY kind neighbor who, I'm sure took pity on a poor, old mother and her children and lent us his awesome snowblower. Lucky us!! Get to it, Blake!! (I think some homemade cinnamon rolls would be an ever-so-nice thank you for our kind neighbor. Don't you think?)

The snow blower did the majority of the work. But Syndie and I had to get the last inch or so of ice off the driveway with our shovels. That's okay. Just listening to some old 80's rock music as I finish the driveway.

Even though Sydnie exhibits some teenage 'tude' occasionally, this girl really does know how to work. She helped until the bitter end. There wasn't a flake left on the driveway. Hard-work ethic and tenacity. Those are awesome qualities to have. Ones that will serve her well throughout her life.

3 hours later.....Finished!!

Time for some delicious hot chocolate and an equally delicious hot shower. Toodles!!

Wanna See Some Before and Afters?

2011-01-26T15:34:00.002-06:00

We've been in Pennsylvania now for nearly 7 months now. We are enjoying our new home. I thought you might enjoy a little bit of before and afters. Here we go....

Here's our front foyer before...

Here's our front foyer after. Notice the new paint, new wrought iron railings and carpet.

Here's the very lame 'chandelier', if you can even call it that, and the very outdated white railing.

My friend Nancy and I bought this unique light fixture in Texas. Nancy faux finished this beautiful medalian that was already attached to the ceiling. This fabulous light weighs at least 75 pounds. You should have seen Bob on the very top of a 12 foot ladder with me about two rungs underneath him trying to hoist this bad boy into place. We had to adjust it a couple of times to make sure it looked perfect through the outside window. It's amazing neither of us broke our necks up that high with something so large and heavy. We learned that there is a reason you call professionals to do this kind of work. But, it turned out amazing! We love it!!

The wrought iron railing makes such a difference. We never saw a wrought iron railing the whole time we were looking at houses. We knew this was a relatively easy change to make that would have such a huge impact. We did all the work ourselves. (Easy, peasy!)

Here is the the living room. Soon to be music and library room before...

And here's our music room and library after...

Just a little side note... It's no secret that I loved my Texas house. I loved the layout, the openness and especially my beautiful faux finishing that my amazing friend Nancy Schoen and her helper Judy Ronk painted throughout the house. Knowing that leaving our beloved Texas was not going to be easy, as well as leaving the house that I loved, my sweet husband arranged to have Nancy and Judy fly to Pennsylvania and spend a whole week painting and faux finishing my new house. Truly, I don't think I have ever been so surprised and touched to the point of absolute tears for such an unbelievably, kind gesture. First, that my husband would think of such an amazing gift and secondly, that Nancy and Judy would actually come and spend a week away from their own families, finding their way through 'the sticks' to get everything they would need and working literally 18 hours a day to make my new house a home. I'll never forget Nancy looking at me straight in the eyes and saying, "This is a gift of love. I want you to know that everytime you walk into your new home that you are loved." And I do. I am so blessed by the gifts of friendship and love. Amazing, truly amazing...

I love all of Nancy's paint. A much needed improvement over the previous red, don't you think? And my most favorite piece of all, the library. Isn't it awesome? I'd been looking at this piece for nearly 3 years. When I knew I really was moving, I took my happy, little self straight down to Anderson Furniture, (where they know me by my first name, unfortunately) and bought this beautiful piece. It fits this space perfectly! I've already had one of the kids ask me if they can have it when I die. (Is that a good thing?) If you can't tell, I really have a thing for books. I love them!!!! Have you read a good book lately? I have. But, I'll leave that for another post...

Standing room only for this amazing mirror. I love it! It works beautifully here. This room is a great place to sit and read or spend a lazy afternoon playing my favorite songs. The kids even love (ok, maybe, like) practicing here, too.

A glimpse of the front door from the music room.

Here's some dining room pictures before......

Baby blue and beige paint on the walls. And you gotta love that chandelier!?!

And here's the dining room after.....

After a little of Nancy's magic on the walls and the ceiling, it looks amazing!!

Another last minute purchase at Andersons Furniture. When I saw this cabinet, I knew that my vintage Fiestaware would look absolutely amazing in it. And it does!!! It's little bit unexpected, which I love.

Isn't this ceiling beautiful! Nancy faux- finished these tiles just exactly like the one she did in my Texas dining room. They truly are stunning. It makes this an amazing one-of-a-kind room! She also picked out this spectactular light fixture above the dining room table. It looks like it was made for this space.

Here's a picture of the before of our butler's pantry. It's small, but it's cute.

And here's the after...

Nancy's paint makes all the difference!

Here's some pictures of the kitchen before.....

Here's the kitchen after....

Nancy did her magic in the kitchen. It's called crackle-plaster and it is amazing! It gives that 'old world' feel to the kitchen. I couldn't have asked for anything more beautiful. Nancy also picked out the light fixture. I love it!

Seating for eight is perfect. I have two more identical chairs to seat 10 comfortably. The more the merrier, right?

Door on the angle leads to the mud room and garage.

Notice Nancy's attention to detail in her paint above the pantry and mudroom door. Nice!

One of my favorite quotes by President Hinckley.

"Life is to be enjoyed, not just endured."

True, so true...

Here's a glimpse of the sunroom before....

And here's the sun room after....

Nancy rescued the previously bright terra-cotta colored walls. Such a lovely place to read and work on my computer. Next to the kitchen, this is where I seem to spend most of my time. I wish you could see this awesome ceiling fan. It looks like an airplane propeller. I think every room needs just a little whimsy!! The views outside this room are spectactular.

Here's the family room before.....

Here's the family room after.....

So glad all my Texas-size furniture fit perfectly!!!

Here's Bob's office before..... (just close your eyes and think Emerald Green...)

And here's Bob's office after....

Nancy did an amazing faux golden leather look on the walls. It looks beautiful!

I'm still looking for the perfect window treatments. Any ideas?

And finally, the last thing on the main floor; the guest bathroom before....

The guest bathroom, after.....

Just a little love from Nancy in the form of paint.

We added new faucets, blinds and just some overall 'prettiness'.

Here's a picture of one of my favorite things...

Our beautiful Grandfather clock. I love it's sound as it chimes each quarter hour.

That's it for the main floor.

Stay tuned for the 2nd floor and the basement!

You won't want to miss it!!

Autumn...

2010-11-17T08:51:00.001-06:00

Autumn burned brightly, a running flame through the mountains, a torch flung to the trees.

Faith Baldwin

Together We Can....

2010-11-17T08:35:00.003-06:00

This years Reflections contest in schools across the nation was "Together We Can..." Kellie submitted her project entitled, "Together We Can...Discover the World". She enjoyed thinking of the wonderful places she's been and imagining the places she hopes to visit someday.

Thank you, Kellie for reminding me that this amazing world is full of beautiful, wonderful places. I hope that I can 'Discover the World' with you.

No School? Let's Go See the CAKE BOSS!

2010-11-05T21:25:00.004-05:00

What do you do when you have a day off of school? How about leave the house at 6:00 a.m., meet some friends, and drive to Hoboken, New Jersey to see the Cake Boss!! Definately one of the bonuses of living on the east coast!!

The drive from our home in south-eastern Pennsylvania to Hoboken, New Jersey is just a short two hour drive. It couldn't have been a more beautiful morning. The trees are teasing us with their beautiful yellows, reds and golds. Sometimes it even feels like it's raining yellow leaves. The fall weather this week has been spectacular!

Here's a few pictures of our Family Field Trip to Carlos Bakery!

Click here to view these pictures larger

Just for the record, I think we broke it when we walked out of Buddy's shop with a mere $80 worth of pastries. We bought an authentic New York Crumb Cake, another kind of cake, Bob's favorite Napoleans, Italian lobster tails, chocolate cannolis, and just plain overkill of every other kind of pastry and cookie that we couldn't resist. (This is, after all, the one, the only Carlo's Bakery!!)

Hey, when you drive 100 miles to get to THE bakery, you better have something to show for it!! (Let me just say.....the crumb cake was TO DIE FOR!!)

Need a Thanksgiving Tablescape Idea?

2010-11-01T07:30:00.001-05:00

I am serving as a counselor in Relief Society over Relief Society meetings. I invited my board over for a get-to-know you breakfast this past Saturday morning. It was so enjoyable to plan and prepare to have people over. It was bitter sweet as I remembered doing the same kind of thing many times over in our previous home in Keller, Texas. I constantly remind myself that I haven't 'lost' friends, I'm simply making new ones. To my friends old and new, here's a few pictures of my table that you might enjoy. Who knows, you might even use a few of these ideas at your own tables this Thanksgiving...

I love fall. It's no wonder the colors in my home reflect these dark, warm tones. I've used a rust colored table cloth, fall leaves (from Pottery Barn) sprinkled all over the table, various gourds around the table, mini pumpkins at each table setting and of course, a few acorn candles to add that 'touch' to the table.

I love dishes! Over the years, I have collected a few different sets. These are the carmel brown and olive green sets that I picked up on sale at Costco (my favorite store) years ago. I mix and match the two sets. I think it makes for a more interesting table.

These sets of dishes came with their own leaf bread plate. I love it! I think every table needs a touch of whimsy.

I love chargers. Over the years this is another thing I have collected. They add the 'Wow' factor to an individual table setting. Here, I have used a dark brown rattan as the base charger with an antique gold charger on top of it. Then, I have placed my main plate with a salad plate with a delicious yogurt parfait on top. The luncheous plate makes for easy and elegant removal of a finished parfait.

Let's face it, we don't set the table with chargers for dinner every night. I only break out the chargers for special occasions. So, when your guests sit down, they immediately know this is a special occasion and they are special guests.

As I write this, I have a big lump in my throat thinking about my dear friend, Stacey Williams. She is a master floral designer. When any of us had a special occasion that needed flowers, there was no one else we'd rather turn to than 'Our Stacey'. She never turned us down, and always came up with the most beautiful, out of the box arrangements I have ever seen. I have learned so much from her. As I arranged this simple centerpiece, I thought of how proud she would be of me. I guess the best in us does rub off on others. I know the best of Stacey, in more ways than just flower arranging, has rubbed off on me. Thank you, dear friend!!!!

Take a simple pumpkin, cut off the top and take out the seeds. Buy 2 bunches of beautiful flowers. (Always buy more flowers than you'll think you'll need. Believe me, you'll need them. And even if you have extra flowers, you'll think of something to do with them; like placing individual, small vases with flowers at every table setting, or setting a small, fresh bouquet near the bathroom sink where your guests will say, 'She thought of everything!') Then, think beautiful, happy thoughts and just add flowers one at a time until your amazing centerpiece emerges. I promise, it will!!

Here's bonus pictures of our buffet. Egg and cheese souffles from Panerra Bread. (Someday I will learn how to make them. They are awesome!) Individual hash browns made in a muffin pan. (Hit. Total hit!)Fresh cinnamon rolls, blueberry muffins and flaky croissants with fresh butter and homemade raspberry and triple berry jam. And in case you didn't notice, there were individual yogurt parfaits waiting for guests at each table setting. Simple, easy, delicious!

Grateful Sundays

2010-07-25T19:11:00.001-05:00

"I am in the right place, at the right time, doing the right thing."

...Louise L. Hay

Mikenzie and Kellie having a karaoke moment...

Where has the month of July gone? Here are just a few of the things I'm grateful for this week.

Navigation Systems. Getting used to a new area would be nearly impossible if it weren't for my handy, dandy navigation systems. I have one in my car, one on my phone and just in case either one of those is leading me in the wrong direction, Bob bought me a Tom Tom. I am sure to get to my destination now. The only thing about these navigation systems, is it seems like they are so anxious for me to see the beautiful scenery of Pennsylvania and Delaware, that often they lead me on the most scenic route available, which is not often the shortest. Oh well. For the Modern Technology of Navigation Systems, Thank You.

New Callings. Well, we've been here not even quite two months and Bob and I have received our first callings in the West Chester Ward. (Funny thing, our ward in Cincinnati was called the West Chester Ward, too...) I am so excited to be serving as the 2nd counselor in Relief Society over RS activities (formerly known as Enrichment meetings). I am so happy to be able to serve with the wonderful sisters in our ward. Our relief society president, Sister Ali Brown is absolutely amazing. She and her family are from England and have been here in the states for almost 11 years. She is a spiritual giant. And of course, her beautiful English accent is mesmorizing. I am so fortunate to be able to learn from and serve with her. Wish me luck, my first lesson is next Sunday. It's been so long since I've taught a class to adults!! (Bob will be serving as the Teachers Quorum advisor in Young Men and as an assistant Venture (?) Scout leader. He will love it!) For the Opportunity to Serve in New Callings, Thank You.

My Girl Sue. Sydnie flew in to Philadelphia and spent a week or so with us here. She got to see our home and her room for the first time. I think she liked it. It was so great to have her home. Yes, it was a little more lively, if you know what I mean. But it just felt like home. She's already made some fast friends as she attended our Stake's Trek activity for the youth. They spent 3 days near Gettysburg reenacting the pioneer trek toward the Great Salt Lake Valley. My Girl Sue is one tough cookie. She had a great time even when the handcart ran over her foot. She is a special girl! I hope she'll always know how much I love her. For My Girl Sue, Thank You!

Rain. You don't know how important rain is until you don't have any for a month or so. Today we got a 30 minute downpour that was desparately needed. The ground drank up every drop of the gift from the sky. It's been very hot and humid here the past 3 weeks or so. I think I may just go outside and do a little rain dance and see if I can tempt the heavens to send us some more moisture. Wish me luck! For the Gift of Rain, Thank You.

Bored/Board Games. When the kids seem a little bit bored, I suggest the old-fashioned, non-technical Board Games. Recentely, they actually took me up on the offter. The kids have been having a ball playing Life and Monopoly. They have even rediscovered Yahtzee. They have been having a wonderful time sitting at the kitchen table playing nicely with each other. I occasionally hear a kind word and maybe even a little laughter, too. For the Gift of Board Games, Thank You.

Home Sweet Home

2010-07-20T21:44:00.000-05:00

A house is made of walls and beams.

A home is built with love and dreams.

Here is our new home in Landenberg, Pennsylvania. (Most affectionately referred to as 'The Sticks'.) After living in Texas where everything is so close and convenient, it feels very 'countryish' here. Our backyard is protected land known as the White Clay Creek Preserve. I'm sure we're going to see quite a few critters around here.

Our new home is actually perfect for us. Bob has worked tirelessly trying to get it 'move-in' ready. I'm so appreciative of his hard work and effort. It really looks amazing.

Stay tuned for some before and after shots.

And if you're ever in the area, we'd love to have you come and stay!! The door is always open!!

A Perfect 4th of July

2010-07-20T21:26:00.000-05:00

What could be better than homemade ice cream and fireworks on the 4th of July? Nothing...

This farm is just a few miles from our home. They make their own homemade ice cream. I wondered why they had such a big parking lot. Now I know...

This farmhouse was built in the late 1700s. (Crazy, huh?) It is still a working farm. The people come from miles around to sample the amazing ice cream.

There's always a line. It moves fast.

Chocolate Thunder for me. (Triple the chocolate.) It's so good, I can't bring myself to try any other flavor!

"I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream!!"

Ooo...

Aaahh...

Oh, say, can you see, by the dawn's early light,

What so proudly we hail'd at the twilight's last gleaming?

Whose broad stripes and bright stars, thro' the perilous fight,

O'er the ramparts we watch'd, were so gallantly streaming?

And the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air,

Gave proof thro' the night that our flag was still there.

O say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave

O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

Boys Need Projects

2010-07-20T21:08:00.000-05:00

Every boy needs a project. Blake decided that we needed a new mailbox. (Which we did!) He worked hard ordering, assembling and finishing our new mailbox.

I have decided that Blake is much like my brother, Brandon. My mother has always said that Brandon, like Blake, enjoys the 'journey' of a project maybe even more than the 'destination'. He tinkered for a few days until it was 'Just Right'.

It looks awesome, Blake!!

My Boy Scout

2010-07-20T20:59:00.003-05:00

On my honor, I will do my best
To do my duty to God and my Country
and to obey the Scout Law;
To help other people at all times;
To keep myself physically strong,
mentally awake, and morally straight.

---The Boy Scout Oath

Blake spent 8 days at Resica Falls, a Boy Scout Camp in the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania. He had a fantastic time earning his Swimming, Environmental Science and yes, even a Basket Weaving merit badge. (No laughing aloud!)

He is really enjoying the new boys in our new ward and in his scout troop.

It is so amazing to see your son grow up. It makes a mother happy and sad all at the same time!

Here are a few pics Blake took at scout camp...

Blake's Scoutmaster was quick to tell us what an excellent fire maker/starter Blake is.

Resica Falls. The perfect place for a Scout to swim and cool off!

'Home Sweet Home'

Moving In...

2010-07-20T20:41:00.000-05:00

It's almost over...

Let the unpacking begin!

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words...

2010-07-20T20:36:00.001-05:00

This picture describes perfectly how we all felt the week we moved into our new home in Pennsylvania...

On to Middle School

2010-07-20T20:31:00.000-05:00

The Best Boy in the World is moving on to Middle School! I can hardly believe it myself. Here's a picture of him receiving an award during the 6th grade award ceremony.

Blake receiving an award from Mrs. Taylor, the Bear Creek Intermediate principal.

This boy just makes me smile!!

She's a Forth Grade Graduate!

2010-07-20T20:20:00.001-05:00

I can hardly believe that Kellie is no longer an elementary school student! She has spent the last five years at Florence Elementary learning, growing and having fun. The memories she's made at Florence will always be treasured!

Way to go, Kellie!!

A hug from Florence's principal, Dr. Martin, assistant principal Mrs. Seaberry and the counselor, Mrs. Bowen.

Kellie received numerous awards and also received a Reading Olympics Gold Medal. I love this girl!

It's a Date...

2010-07-20T20:09:00.001-05:00

What could be nicer than lunch and a movie with two of my favorite people? Mikenzie, Blake and I savored one last lunch at Central Market and escaped the heat in the Cine Capri watching Prince of Persia. (Okay, just for the record...that Jake Gyllenhaal is some serious eye candy!!!)

I always order grilled chicken and grilled vegetables. They're always delicious and I'm never disappointed. I have to say that one of the things that I'll miss about Texas the most is Central Market. I love it!! There isn't another kind of specialty grocery store like it!

Mikenzie had an awesome steak salad.

A Boy and his burger!!

The biggest screen in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Such a fun afternoon!

Boxes, Boxes and More Boxes...

2010-07-20T19:54:00.000-05:00

The end of this school year has been just a little nuts. Wrapping up the school year with four kids is crazy enough. Add to that trying to move a household across the country at the same time and it gets a little insane. We managed somehow with the kindness of friends and some pretty awesome kids.

Here's what our house looked like for a week or so...

Six Flags Over Texas - 4th Grade Style

2010-07-20T19:46:00.000-05:00

The forth grade students at Florence Elementary performed their final program Six Flags Over Texas at the end of the school year. What a great way to celebrate the great state of Texas.

Take a peek at my little Cowgirl...

"Cowgirl Jane"

Isn't she cute?

Move Over Beethoven!

2010-07-20T19:25:00.000-05:00

Mikenzie and Kellie had their last piano recital with Sister Beth Sands. It was such fun! It was a duet recital. Beth paired her students up with another student who was not a sibling. They each learned their part and performed it amazingly!

Kellie playing Chim Chim Cherree from Mary Poppins with Beth.

Mikenzie and Kellie have thoroughly enjoyed taking piano lessons from Beth. She is amazingly talented, fun and inspiring! I couldn't have asked for a better teacher for my girls! Thanks Beth!!

Just a Little Trip to Utah...

2010-07-20T16:18:00.002-05:00

I took a trip to Utah in May. My mom and I attended a Calyco Healing Workshop held in Saint George, Utah. It was such a treat to spend a week with my family in the beautiful state of Utah. Here are a few pics...

Me, my brother Brandon, his boy, Braxton and my beautiful sister, Danae.

Two of my favorite people. Mom and Dad.

My parents literally live right behind the Jordan River Temple.

The flowers this spring were absolutely spectacular.

A sea of white and purple tulips.

Blossoms, tulips, flowers, everywhere!

Pinks and purples...

"Whenever I touch a velvet rose or walk by a lilac tree, I'm glad that I live in this beautiful world Heavenly Father created for me."

In this sea of white and pink flowers, there was a lone orange tulip. It reminded me that even though we might think we are different, we are each unique, special and beautiful in our own way.

It's not every day you get to see one of the largest copper mines in the world!

Brigham "Y"oung University

My mom and I stayed at this quaint Bed and Breakfast. There were nine beautifully restored homes nestled in a garden-like setting around the "Village Green" right in the heart of old town St. George.

What's the history behind the name "Green Gate" Village? In 1877, Brigham Young ordered white paint for the new St. George Temple. When the shipment finally arrived by wagon he was disappointed to learn that the paint was green, not white. Unable to return it, he gave the green paint to local St. George residents to gild their gates and fences. Only one of those green gates still remain from a 131 years ago and is on display in the formal garden.

Mom and I stayed in the Granery Suite. It has a lovely sitting room, large spacious bedroom and bath. What a fun week spent with my mom!

The beautiful St. George Tabernacle was right across the street from our Bed and Breakfast.

The St. George Temple is spectacular. You can see it from most every place in St. George. The white of the temple is in such stark contrast to the beautiful red rock of St. George. (Note to self...St. George would be an excellent place to retire!!! I'm not old enough to say that, am I?)

"Heaven... I'm in Heaven!..."

There's not much I wouldn't do for a Cafe Rio Salad!!

Delicious!!

I couldn't believe that there was so much snow still in the mountains the last week of May...

(Aren't these mountains gorgeous!)

"A Blast From the Past"

2010-07-20T15:22:00.000-05:00

I love the end of the year programs. The Keller Middle School choirs did not dissapoint. Nothing like a little Journey, Aerosmith or Michael Jackson to make me feel like a teenager again.

Sydnie had a great time in choir this year. (Truth be told, they really join choir for the field trips!)

Grateful Sunday

2010-05-09T20:31:00.004-05:00

A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts. ~Washington Irving

A mother is a person who seeing there are only four pieces of pie for five people, promptly announces she never did care for pie. ~Tenneva Jordan

On this Mother's Day, 2010, here are a few things I'm grateful for...

* My mother. Abraham Lincoln said it best, "All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother." I am 43 years old and the memories I have of my mother grow sweeter as each year goes by. From my earliest memories, I have always thought my mother was the most beautiful mother of them all. She always dressed so stylish, always had her hair done perfectly and her shiny lipstick always made her smile more perfect. As I write this, I can still smell that lipstick as she kissed me on the cheek as a small girl and told me she loved me.

I have a vivid memory of sitting next to her in church as a small girl and helping her hold the hymn book and thinking my mother's voice was just like that of an angel. Her soprano voice was lovely. But every now and again, she would sing the alto line which I thought made her voice sound magical. Even now, when I am lucky enough to sit next to her in church, I still think her voice is magical.

Through the years, I have not only come to love her as my mother, but truly as my best friend. I know that my mother always has my best interest at heart. She is my biggest cheerleader. She is my closest confidant. She is a listening ear. She is non-judgemental. She is selfless. She is radiant. She is Christ-like. She is...My Mother. For My Mother, Thank You.

* My Kids. Of all the blessings in my life, along with Bob, my kids are my most precious. Heavenly Father has blessed me with choice children who bring me joy, bring me challenges, but have blessed me with the capacity to love far more than I ever thought possible. They are each unique and different in their own way and bring such unique gifts to our family. For my Special Kids, Thank You.

* Missionaries. Today in Sacrament meeting, we had two of our young men speak who are leaving to serve missions in Guatemala City, Guatemala and Denver, Colorado, Spanish speaking mission. They each spoke on the influence their mothers have had in their lives and shared their sweet testimonies. It was such a wonderful meeting and I couldn't help but think how much their words ment to their mothers, Caroline and Michelle.

During Relief Society today we had a wonderful program. Bishop Smith came and spoke for a few minutes and thanked us for our role not only as mothers, but as women of the church. His words were touching and heartfelt. Then the young men of our ward, about 30 or so, came in and recited an amazing scripture in unison while each young men held a paper that stated when he would be eligible to serve a mission. Seeing Blake stand there in such fine company, reciting that scripture holding his paper that showed he would be eligible to serve a mission in 8 years, 8 months and 19 days was powerful. There truly is power in the priesthood. Power in being valiant. Power in being a servant of God. For Missionaries Today and 8 Years From Now, Thank You.

* My Dad. I know it's Mother's Day, but I couldn't let the day go by without expressing my gratitude to my Heavenly Father for my wonderful dad. He is strong. He is valiant in his testimony of Christ. He serves others more than we probably know. He loves his country. He is...my dad and today I want him to know how much I love him. For my Dad, Thank You.

On Your Mark, Get Set, Go!

2010-05-05T09:41:00.002-05:00

This week is 4th Grade Playday for all 4th graders in the Keller school district. Kellie had a fantastic time yesterday competing against Willis Lane, Lone Star and Bette Perot elementary schools on the beautiful football field at Keller High School. The 4th graders from Florence did awesome in all of their events. Kellie competed in the soccer punt, 80 yard run and the 100 yard run. What fun we all had cheering everyone on! Everyone was a winner!!

Florence Elementary's 4th Grade Playday T-Shirt

Kellile, Savannah Smith and Savannah Koerner.

These cute girls are all in the same Primary class together.

Kellie's teacher, Mr. Holman brought his son Nathanial to cheer on his students and enjoy the sunshine.

Go Kellie!!!

It was a photo finish!!

Whew! She did awesome!

Me and my Kellie.

Answered Prayer

2010-05-03T21:00:00.001-05:00

I know that our Heavenly Father hears and answers our prayers. He has answered ours. For everyone who offered prayers in our behalf, Thank you.

We are truly looking forward to finally being together as a family in Pennsylvania this summer.

Grateful Sunday

2010-05-02T21:25:00.003-05:00

Happiness cannot be traveled to, owned, earned, worn or consumed. Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace, and gratitude. Denis Waitley

On this beautiful Sunday evening, here are a few things I'm thankful for this week...

* A Lienient Judge. On my way to play prelude music at a stake baptism last December I received a speeding ticket. I know. I should have been obeying the speed limit. Long story short: Due to a misunderstanding (poor penmanship) on my ticket, my online driving course was not received in time at the Colleyville Court. I had to wait for a summons to appear before the judge to plead my case. I have never been in a real court room in my life! When I arrived, there were 75 other people there to plead their own cases. As my name was called, I approached the bench and apologized to the judge for my tardiness in submitting my online course. He asked me if I did indeed complete it, for which I gratefully produced my certificate of completion. He said that was fine, asked me to sign it, and off I went. Whew!! What a relief!! Now my kids didn't have to wonder if I would be calling them from the county jail or at the very least waving to them from the side of the road as I completed my 'community service'. For a Very Lenient Judge, Thank You!!

* Birthdays and Fun Memories. What a fun week it has been celebrating my sweet friend, Stacey's birthday. What I love about birthdays is that the excitement and fun is contagious to everyone. What a great time we had visiting, eating, singing and dancing. For Birthdays and Fun Memories, Thank You.

* A Fun Stake Youth Conference. This weekend, Sydnie attended her first Youth Conference. The theme for the weekend was 'That's Life'. She had a wonderful time, even commenting that the speaker Friday night was great. (Shocker...Something Posative...Finally!!!) She had fun providing service at the Community Storehouse Saturday morning. Then after lunch, 300 youth from our stake played a life size game of Life in the cultural hall. Sydnie said it was awesome! After picking her up at 11:30 Saturday night, she said she had a blast at her first stake dance. And as tired as she was, she and Mikenzie both got up early to attend an 8 a.m. Fast and Testimony meeting which she said was 'good'. As a grateful mother, and for a Fun Stake Youth Conference, Thank You.

* It's Over!! Mikenzie took her second SAT test Saturday morning. She has been studying extra hard and attending a special course on Tuesday and Thursday evenings for the past few months to get ready for this exam. I know her hard work and time spent studying has surely paid off! And best of all, It's Over!! Thank You!

* A Great Home Inspection. I am so grateful for sale of our Texas home. On Thursday, the buyers inspectors were here for over 4 hours. I think they checked out every crack and crevice of this house. Thankfully, the few things they found were very minor and will be easy to fix. For the outcome of a Great Home Inspection, Thank You!

A Texas Tradition...

2010-05-01T21:56:00.001-05:00

"What? You've never been to Canton?"

Saturday morning, my friends, Stacey, Christine and Chris took me on my inaugural trip to Canton, TX.

What is Canton? Only the world's largest outdoor flea market. Trade days takes place Thursday through Sunday before the first Monday of every month in Canton, Texas. Every month, thousands of vendors from across the country turn this friendly East Texas community into a shopper's paradise where you can find rare antiques and collectibles, furniture, fine home decor, arts and crafts, clothing, jewelry, tools, produce, and much more.

Take a peek at our fun Saturday...

We found some beautiful serving utensils at this cool store.

The 'real' Canton shoppers all bring their own shopping carts. Stacie and Chris brought theirs. As you can see, they came in quite handy as we piled our 'treasures' in them.

Christine and her cart. (Isn't she beautiful?)

Today was actually Stacey's 49th birthday. We took a moment to rest so that Stacey could listen to all the birthday wishes that were coming in to her voice mail.

Picking out charms for some cool necklaces.

We all made our own unique charm necklace.

Every girl needs a little 'bling'.

Man, the smells at this place were out of this world! Kettle corn, funnel cakes, and fresh corn dogs to just name a few. Stacie opted for some protein, the hugest turkey leg you've ever seen!

What a Fun day spent with Fantastic Friends!!

Happy Birthday, Hula Girl!

2010-04-30T10:41:00.003-05:00

Six years ago, when I was new to Texas, I was assigned to visit teach Sister Stacey Williams. Little did I know then how this sweet sister would come to bless my life. She is beautiful, strong, funny and talented. No wonder everyone wants to be her friend!

Stacey and are are both moving away from our beloved Texas at nearly the same time next month. What fun it was to celebrate her last birthday here in Texas with all her friends, Hawaiian Style! We ate, we danced, we sang and we just enjoyed being with 'Our Stacey'.

If friends are the flowers in the garden of life, Stacey surely is one of the most beautiful and special to us all. Happy Birthday, Dear Friend!!

Happy Birthday!

What's a party without the food?

We enjoyed grilled terriyaki chicken and pineapple, fried rice, fried shrimp, Caroline's awesome Chinese chicken salad, Leslie's delicious Greek rice salad, Christine's tasty Asian lo-mein salad and colorful veggie tray and Lauren and Beth's beautiful and yummy fruit kabobs and pineapple boats.

And for dessert, Christine's famous cocanut cream cheese cupcakes, Lana's lemon bars and Marybeth's out-of-this-world Buckeyes. And we couldn't call it a Luau without a Pina Colada, or two.

Michelle and Beth... Pizazz with a capitol 'P'.

Chris and Claudette...

My friends, Christine, Melanie and Lauren... Love Them.

The Birthday Girl and our sweet friend, Diana.

Present time...

Fun!!

Our group gift to Stacey was Del Parson's beautiful picture of the Savior with the children entitled, "Perfect Love". It was perfect!! I hope Stacey will think of all of us fondly whenever she looks at it and know how much we love her!

Okay...Now it's 'Party Time'! Hawaiian Singing Bee!!

We love these girls!!

"Key Largo, Montego... Baby why don't we go down to Cocomo. We'll get there faster if we take it slow....Down to Cocomo...

Fun...

Very Fun!! (And yes, girls, she CAN Hula!!)

Thought For the Day

2010-04-26T08:50:00.002-05:00

Here are a few beautiful roses from my yard.

I've waited four years for my pink rose bush to finally bloom.

I think it's a Tender Mercy just for me.

Thank You.

Enjoy this little story...

LOVE THIS MOMENT by Lisa Frost

One day as I trudged wearily down a path not far away,

I came upon a bright old man traveling the other way.

He walked along with a jaunty step that was so free and light,

While his smile shone like the fullest moon upon the darkest night.

When our paths did meet I begged of him to stop but a little while,

For I had to ask in bafflement, "Dear sir, why do you smile?"

"For I walk this road every single day through wind and rain and sun,

And for each heavy step I tread I wish the journey done."

The man replied in a merry voice that was music to my ears,

"My friend, I've learned a thing or two throughout my many years."

"While it's great to have a purpose from which you do not stray,

More important by far it is to love your journey along the way."

To that reply I looked askance and voiced my inner doubt,

"How can you love a well-worn path that rambles all about?"

"For it does not run straight and true towards my desired goal,

Instead it wastes my precious time with all its bumps and holes."

"And do you know the worst thing of all, that makes me quite lose heart?

While every morning I reach the end, each night I'm back at the start."

That wise old man smile knowingly and gently turned to say,

"You won't travel very far in life marching the same track every day."

"You think that to gain your far off dreams this path needs to re-arrange,

But there'll never be a different end unless you decide to change."

"To reach a dream that seems remote, you must round every bend,

Instead of always turning back to retrace your steps again."

"And once again I say to you, if I might be so bold,

While the dream may be the silver, the journey is the gold."

"For every person's true desire throughout their very soul,

Is to live a life of love and joy. To be one and true and whole."

"It is our hope most precious to connect with all the Earth,

To feel life's energies within all moments from our precious birth."

Then he answered my next question, which was very simply, "How?"

"Just live each day inside your heart. See the beauty of right now."

"For no matter if the path you step is an old one or a new,

Behold it with the eyes of your soul to find wonder in all views."

"When you are grateful for all the world as a gift from up above,

You'll realize that what you're doing is simply allowing love."

"And when that love completely fills every crevice of your heart,

Your journey will be one of joy - What you wanted from the start!"

Then satisfied he'd made his point this great man turned away,

To continue down the splendid path of magic every day.

Since that encounter I have walked many roads towards my goal,

With forever his gift inside my heart; to love this moment with all my soul.

Grateful Sunday

2010-04-25T22:48:00.001-05:00

"To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children...to leave the world a better place...to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded."

Ralph Waldo Emerson

On this quiet Sunday evening, here's a few things I'm thankful for this week...

* "SOLD" On Thursday, we accepted an offer on our home here in Texas. It was a little bitter sweet. But it is a sweet relief to look forward with anticipation and excitement to our move to Pennsylvania. I am so happy to know that the family that bought our home is excited. They actually came four times to visit the house, and the last time the new owner actually left me a note. It read, "Mrs. Fitzpatrick, Your home is beautiful and we are so excited! It will be well cared for!" I am so grateful to know that this home will hold many more happy memories for a family that will love it and take care of it as we have." For our Texas Home that is Sold, Thank You.

* My Health. With allergy season in full swing here in Texas, I am so grateful for my health. Sydnie must have inherited her dad's allergies. She is coughing and sneezing up a storm. Except for a bum knee, I have always enjoyed pretty good health. Nothing makes you appreciate your health more than being sick or being injured. For My Good Health, Thank You!

* It's A Girl Cousin! My sister is expecting her fifth child, due in September. She found out this week that she is actually having a girl. I love her post on facebook. "A little girl's deepest prayer comes true...Lila is having a sister!" I'm sure my sweet sister, Danae, cried tears of joy, too! She is the amazing mother of 3 wonderful boys and one adorable girl. Now their family just might be complete! For the Blessing of a New Baby Girl Cousin, Thank You!

* Just Hanging Out With Kellie. I had promised my adorable Kellie at least three weeks ago that I would take her to see Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Things just kept getting in the way. On Saturday, I knew I couldn't take hearing, "Mom, when are we going to the movies? You promised!" one more time, so off we went. Kellie loved the show and I loved being with Kellie. For a Fun Afternoon, Just Hanging Out With Kellie, Thank You.

* A Thoughtful Boy. This morning as we were getting ready for church, I reminded Blake that I needed to iron his new church pants and shirt before he got ready this morning. He said they were fine (even though I knew they were wrinkled.) I told him that now that he was a Deacon passing the sacrament, he had an important job to do that required him to always be, act and look his best. I reminded him that before the Savior was crucified he instituted the Last Supper and served bread and water to His disciples in remembrance of His body and His blood. And that as a deacon, he was in fact, acting in place of Christ, serving the sacrament to all of us in the congregation, because we are His disciples here on earth. He understood the significance of his calling a little bit more and quickly got his clothes ready to be pressed so that he might look his best performing his priesthood responsibilities. For A Thoughtful Boy, Thank You.

Race for the Cure

2010-04-24T20:39:00.003-05:00

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in the world. It affects women more than men. Each year 200,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in United States alone.

Did you know the exciting thing about breast cancer is that your chances of getting it are now only one in twelve women? (Up from the previous number, eight.) And that's directly from the Breast Cancer Institute. The other good news is that it is preventable and 90% of women diagnosed in the early stages go on to lead normal, healthy lives.

In celebration of our Nanny, Mary Fitzpatrick, a 18 year breast cancer survivor, the kids and I ran (okay, walked) the Race for the Cure in Fort Worth, Texas this perfectly beautiful spring morning

With each passing year, I have even more hope and optimism for a cure for this disease in my lifetime. Wouldn't it be wonderful if someday breast cancer was thought of the way we think of Polio or Mumps today. I think it's possible. Truly possible.

Here's a glimpse of our morning...

It could not have been a more beautiful day in Fort Worth, Texas

Why do we walk.... For Nanny

Balloons filled the sky during the National Anthem.

At the starting line. The energy is electric!

We're ready!

On your mark, get set, GO!

Isn't it amazing to feel a part of something

so much bigger than yourself?

The Best Boy in the World.

We made it!!

What a fantastic start to a beautiful day!

40, Over the Hill? Never!

2010-04-24T20:14:00.000-05:00

My sweet friend, Angi, (that's right, there's no 'e'), turned the BIG 4-0 in March. And you just can't have too much of a good thing, so we're still celebrating! Krista, Angi and I enjoyed The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber at the Music Hall at Fair Park in Dallas this week.

Andrew Lloyd Webber is probably most noted for his musicals, Phantom of the Opera, Cats, Evita, Sunset Boulevard, and Jesus Christ Superstar. But I was pleasantly surprised to see Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Starlight Express and a few others in the playbill.

Selected songs from these amazing musicals were sung by previous Broadway singers whose voices were phenomenal. I enjoyed watching the Dallas Symphony Orchestra preform just as much as the vocalists.

All in all, it was a fun night spend with friends who are in the "Fabulous Forty Club!!" (And I'd say, we look pretty darn good!)

How can one man have so much talent?

Fabulous and Forty!!

Bravo!!

Grateful Sundays

2010-04-18T17:59:00.004-05:00

"If you want to feel rich,
just count all of things you have that money can't buy."

Anonymous

On this rainy Sunday afternoon in April, here's just a few things I'm thankful for.

* A Handsom Husband. Bob was in town the last part of this week for the Army Aviation Association of America (Quad A) conference held here in Ft. Worth. How nice it was to have dinner together as a family this week and just hang out together. I am so grateful for Bob's new job, which he loves. It's so wonderful to see his passion for life and his love of aviation in in full swing again. For A Very Handsome Husband, Thank You.

* A Pennsylvania Home...finally. We were finally able to close on our new home in Pennsylvania. Bob is living there now, doing lots of touch-ups and things that need done. We have loved living here in Texas and I have loved this home. But I am ready to let it be loved and enjoyed by it's new owners. Instead of feeling sorrow leaving this wonderful place called Texas, we are happy and excited that we will take the best of Texas with us to share with others. For Our New Home In Pennsylvania, Thank You.

* A New Calling. It has been a long time since I've had a calling in Young Women. I am excited to be the Personal Progress leader for the Beehives in our ward. I am so excited, because not only will I be encouraging and helping the 12 and 13 year olds, but I have started on the journey of completing my own Personal Progress. One of my biggest regrets of my teenage years is thinking I was too big, old or important for Church. I wish I would have stayed where I knew I should have been and been doing the things I know I should have been doing. For A New Calling That Gives Me A Second Change To Complete My Own Personal Progress While Motivating Others, Thank You.

* Boys Who Love To Camp... Blake and Bob went on the Scout campout Friday night. Even though it has rained nearly non-stop for most of the weekend, just being together, I'm sure, they had a great time. Blake was in charge of breakfast. His dad said 'He made some mean scrambled eggs.' Blake served some very welcome breakfast burritos with scrambled eggs, bacon, cheese and and salsa, along with fried potatoes, cinnamon rolls, bananas and orange juice. Let me just say, nothing came back home. For Boys Who Love To Camp, Thank You.

* The Miracle of Spring. What a wet weekend we've had. The pool is nearly over-flowing. But I think Kellie said it best, "Mom, I bet the trees and flowers really like this rain." I think she's right. After the dull, dark and cold of winter, spring brings with it renewed hope of sunshine, and an opportunity as things once perceived dead come to life again. For The Miracle of Spring, Thank You.

Pride and Prejudice

2010-04-18T17:18:00.003-05:00

Little did Jane Austen know in 1811 that her novels would be favorites of one, Mikenzie Fitzpatrick, almost two centuries later. If she were alive today, Mikenzie would be the president of her fan club!

Last Friday evening, Mikenzie, Kellie and I attended the opening performance of the Fort Worth Community Arts Center's production of Pride and Prejudice. We had a wonderful time. The theater only seats 100 or so, Of course, we had to have front row seats. The performance was fantastic. I have a renewed respect for the talent and skill that these actors and actresses have. Just memorizing the lines alone is enough to make my head spin.

Miss Elizabeth Bennet was a gem, played by a fiesty red head. (Gee, who does that remind you of...) Her hair was true to her character. And of course Mr. Darcy was as handsome as ever. And when they finally kissed at the end, well, let's just say, we all were swooning!

What a fun evening spent with two of my girls. We've got to do it again, soon!

"I have no pretensions whatever to that kind of elegance which consists in tormenting a respectable man."

"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife."

"Vanity and pride are different things, though the words are often used synonymously.... Pride relates more to our opinion of ourselves, vanity to what we would have others think of us."

The small, intimate audience seating.

"How little of permanent happiness could belong to a couple who were only brought together because their passions were stronger than their virtue."

The stage.

"Happiness in marriage is entirely a matter of chance. If the dispositions of the parties are ever so well known to each other or ever so similar beforehand, it does not advance their felicity in the least. They always continue to grow sufficiently unlike afterwards to have their share of vexation; and it is better to know as little as possible of the defects of the person with whom you are to pass your life."

"Best Buds"

Grateful Sunday

2010-04-11T19:42:00.003-05:00

"Be thankful to God for all of your life's experiences. The good ones are easy, but the negatives are the ones that will change your life! With loving gratitude, you can soar to all levels in life. Don't ever let anyone tell you different. And never, never let anyone steal your dreams!"

Christina Perry

On this second Sunday in April, here are a few things I'm thankful for...

* A.Wonderful Stake Relief Society Women's Conference. The sisters in the Colleyville, Texas stake were spiritually fed yesterday as we attended "Mary, Martha and Me" We learned that it's okay that sometimes we feel like either Mary or Martha, as long as we always remember the 'one needful thing'; staying close to our Savior, Jesus Christ. We attended 3 workshops, enjoyed an awesome skit and ate a fabulous boxed lunch. For wonderful talented sisters and being reminded of my value as not only a Relief Society Sister, but also as a Daughter of God, Thank You.

* Surprise phone calls from an 'old' treasured friend. What a surprise when my special friend Jan Skousen called me on the phone this week. We met our dear friends Jan and Jeff Skousen over twenty years ago when we were newleyweds in Mesa, Arizona. Have you ever met someone and just knew you've known them before? Well, that's how I feel about Jan. It took us 20 years to connect again on earth and I'm so grateful we did. She is definately a life-long friend! I have been thinking so much about her lately. She is the mother of twin baby girls, Annaliese and Mattia. They turned 1 in March. It is so much fun to catch up and express the concerns, challenges and joys of our hearts with each other. For Special Friends, Thank You.

* Five Showings on our home. After a long dry spell, the home buyers are finally out and about. What a joy it is to actually keep my home clean for someone to see other than us! The comments on our home are great. Keep your fingers crossed for a quick sell! We are excited to be together in Pennsylvania! For the Abundance of Showings on our Home This Week, Thank You.

* Talents. I would have never believed as a kid that I would ever be thankful for the many dollars spent by my parents on piano lessons in my behalf. As an adult I am forever grateful for this gift that allows me the ability to serve others. I volunteer to play the piano at Florence Elementary for Mrs. Knagg the music and choir director. The children preformed their Spring Concert last Friday and again this coming Monday. They are singing numbers from The Sound of Music. How fun it is to hear the sweet voices of chidren! For the Gift of Sharing my Talent With Others, Thank You.

* Visiting Teachers. Visiting teachers? And it's only April 11th? Yes. And they actually came on the 7th!! I have the best visiting teachers ever. Krista and Karma have been my visiting teachers for well over a year now. I truly look forward to their phone calls and visits. We love catching up on each other's lives. But I love our amazing gospel centered conversations the most. What a blessing it is to me to be able to learn and grow from such amazing, wise women. They have shared some tender moments with me over the past six months. They have definatey been on the Lord's errand. I know I am in their prayers. I know they love me. And I truly love them. For Special Visiting Teachers, Thank You.

Oh, To Be Young Again...

2010-04-09T19:58:00.003-05:00

Tonight is the Multi-Stake Priest and Laurel Prom. It is being held in Arlington, Texas. We had a grand time picking out a dress, curling those golden locks and putting fancy makeup on. I'm sure she'll have a fantastic time!

Mikenzie's smile lights up the room!

A daughter is the happy memories of the past, the joyful moments of the present, and the hope and promise of the future. -- Author Unknown

Spring...

2010-04-07T16:51:00.002-05:00

Here is my first Yellow Rose of Texas

from my rose bush this spring.

"We all have a divine mission on earth. Let that mission be to inspire love and embrace the light within. Let that mission be to have peace in our hearts as we create heaven on earth. Let that mission be to seek empowerment through transformation and to breathe joy into everything we do. If we allow these things to be our mission the golden light of the sun will shine on our souls and change our world forever." ...Michael Teal

Shoes

2010-03-30T11:39:00.001-05:00

"There will be a day when you can no longer do this...

Today is not that day."

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

2010-03-29T22:52:00.001-05:00

"Somewhere over the rainbow, skies are blue,

and the dreams that you dare to dream

really do come true."

Lyman Frank Baum

Let's Play Hooky!!

2010-03-29T22:30:00.002-05:00

I have NEVER let my kids play hooky. At least not until we got killer matinee tickets to see Phantom of the Opera at Dallas Fair Park.

What fun we had sleeping in, enjoying a wonderful lunch together and topping it all off seeing one of the the BEST Broadway shows ever! I think the kids loved it!! (I know I did!)

Row 10, just off center. Not too shabby!

The infamous crashing chandelier.

The stage and scenery is second to none.

The musicians were absolutely FANTASTIC!

A Standing "O"

BRAVO!!

Yes, She Is Blogging Again...

2010-03-29T21:59:00.003-05:00

Beautiful Full Moon Over Texas

March 29, 2010

What to do when you haven't posted a blog in over seven months?

Begin again, today, to tell the story of our lives...

Here's a copy of a talk in gave in Sacrament meeting in January. It might help explain my absence. I'm done having my own little 'pity party' and am looking forward to a new leg of our journey here on earth. (Sorry, in advance, for the length of this post.)

I Am A Child of God - given January 17, 2010
Keller 2nd Ward, Colleyville, TX Stake

Good Morning brothers and sisters. I'm happy to have this opportunity to share a few thoughts with you this morning.

I would like to begin with a short story that is found in the April 2008 Ensign.

"It was around my 14th birthday when my mother started talking in code. Just as I would be running out thedoor for some new adventure with my friends, she would call out, "Remember who you are!"

I wasn't quite sure what she meant by that, but I would fake an understanding and yell over my shoulder, "Ok, Mom. Bye!" At times I would mull over her coded message. What was she trying to say? I knew who I was. I was Traci, sixth child in my family, big deal.

I decided my mother's message was the result of her occupation. She had been a registered nurse for about 25 years, so maybe she had seen children who had been left with amnesia after some horrible accident. "Yes," I decided, "She wants to make sure that if I am ever hurt, I will remember my name and other vital information. That must be the reason for her emphatic message."

As I was growing up, life with my family was not always pleasant, despite the face that we were members of the Church. After one particularly bad night, I remember staring at myself in the mirror, hardly recognizing the reflection staring back at me because my face was red from my father's repeated slaps. I started crying, not knowing what to do or think. Thoughts of running away crossed my mind., Even worse ideas wormed their way into my confused thoughts.

At no other time before or since have I felt so alone. I felt worn out, almost willing to let the surrounding darkness take over. I looked in to the mirror once more. The words "I don't even know myself" tumbled from my lips. That was when I heard my mother's voice repeated clearly and distinctly in my mind, "Remember who you are! Remember who you are!"

I can describe that moment only as enlightening, For the first time I realized what my mother's message meant., It was her plea for me to remember my divine heritage. A phrase from a Primary song echoed in my mind, "I am a Child of God" the knowledge that my nature was divine would help me endure to the end. My mother understood that. I know she hoped that someday I would gain this eternal perspective as well."

The topic I have been given to speak on today is 'How knowing that I am a child of God motives me and impacts my life.'

I'm sure that one of the first songs I ever sang to any of our newborn children was "I am a Child of God." Maybe it was yours, too. It's amazing the simple truth that is presented to us at such a young age is taken for granted by so many.

To think that there are literally millions of people the world over who wonder "Where did I come from?" "Why am I here?" "Where am I going?"

What a sweet blessing it is to come to know - to actually gain a testimony by the power of the Holy Ghost - that there IS a God and the He has a plan with an exalted purpose for each of His children. It is also a very powerful, personal driving factor to be able to accept that we each have a particular role to play in this plan. We owe it to ourselves to make an extra effort to discover, in every detail possible, who we really are - to discover our eternal potential in God's plan.

We are blessed to know that we are each a child of God, a son or daughter of a loving Father who has structured a glorious plan for the salvation and happiness of each of His children.

We understand that we were in the presence of our Father in Heaven in premortal councils, where His plan was presented to all of His children., We accepted His plan. Jesus Christ was there and He became the leading advocate for the plan - the objective of which is to provide all of God's children the opportunity to come to earth; obtain a body; and, during our period of mortal probation, prove ourselves in faith, repentance, obedience and endure to the end. We each, individually accepted that we would one day stand before the Lord, Jesus Christ and be judged. Those found worthy would be exalted and would dwell eternally in the presence of the Father and Son in eternal family relationships. All others would be assigned to kingdoms of lesser glory.

We also know that because of His prefect love for each of His children - this loving Father offered up His Only Begotten Son, that through His atoning sacrifice in Gethesemane and on the cross and Calvary, He would become the Savior of all humankind, the eternal hope of the world. Through His sacrifice He would ensure resurrection from the grave for all, as well as provide the opportunity for forgiveness for every repentant soul. We know that without a Savior there is no plan of salvation and happiness.

What a blessing it is to have this revealed doctrine as foundation upon which to build our lives and for our trust and hope in eternal happiness.

Life here on earth is an opportunity and a blessing. It also has its share of challenges, trials and heartaches as well. But, with a testimony of the restored gospel, an understanding of the atonement and a knowledge of who we are, we are able to face these challenges and look at them as a blessing.

I used to think that lucky were they who escaped this mortal probation without the trials and challenges that so many talk about. I have come to understand that someday, sometime, we will all face these challenges and trials in our lives. For some it may be the lingering illness of a spouse, for others the difficulty of a wayward child. For some an unanticipated move and for others, the unexpected loss of a job.

No matter what our challenge or trial may be, if we can change our perspective and see beyond the immediate, we can see our unique challenge for what it truly is; an opportunity to grow closer to our Heavenly Father and our Savior, Jesus Christ. This makes our own unique particular challenge or trial so much easier to bear.

Due to some executive changes at Bob's work, in September of last year, we found ourselves without the security of having employment. This has been an unforeseen challenge and trial for our family. But, it has also given us the opportunity for personal spiritual growth as we have put our faith and trust in a loving Heavenly Father who knows us. I have learned to be humble and teachable. I am grateful for the prayers of many. I have truly felt their power and impact.

I count myself lucky to have parents who are still very active and healthy. They continue to be the unconditional support that I have needed not only throughout my life by especially these last few months.

I am ever thankful for my earthly father who is in good health and is always a listening ear and someone who I can share my deepest concerns of my heart with. Sometimes my phone will ring and as I look down at my caller ID and see my dad's number, I smile. My dad calls just to see how I'm doing at seemingly the times when I need to heart his voice the most. I am so thankful for him and his unconditional love for me. Just hearing his voice seems to put my mind at east and put my heart to rest.

I can testify to you that just as we have an earthly father who loves us, we also have a loving Heavenly Father wh loves us and is as mindful of us, if not more so. He knows each of us individually by name. As we reach out to Him, He is waiting to help us and let us know that He is aware of us and that we are not alone.

As an example, I share with you a simple, personal journal entry.

"Today I received an tender mercy from the Lord. Upon driving to institute today, I said a small prayer asking Heavenly Father to tell me something, instruct me, or give me something that was specifically just for me.

As institute was beginning, Sister Call asked for a volunteer to lead the music. As no one was raising their hand. I volunteered. We sang all 4 verses of Joseph Smith's First Prayer. I love that hymn. It was one of the first hymns that I learned as Primary child. It is a true story set to beautiful music. It reminded me not only of the restoration of the gospel, but that Heavenly Father does indeed hear and answer our prayers.

Our lesson was wonderful. The Spirit was present. At the conclusion of our lesson, Sister Call asked for a volunteer to say the closing prayer. A sister from the Colleyville ward offered the prayer. As she was about to conclude, she hesitated, and then she specifically thanked those who had offered the music this day. It was then that I knew that this was not just a nice thought or gesture. This was a tender mercy extended to me from a loving Heavenly Fahter who loves me, knows me and is aware of my needs and desires. He just had to tell me through the voice of another. Thank you."

As we face challenges in our lives, because we know we are each a special child of God, we know we are never alone.

During this mortal experience, Heavenly Father knew we would face challenges. As our family faced our, I took the opportunity to search what our modern prophets and apostles have said about such experiences through recent conference addresses. I would live to share a few.

Joseph B. Wirthlin shares, " My mother always said, 'Come what may and love it.' I have often reflected on that counsel. I think she may have meant that every life has peaks and shadows and times when it seems that the birds don't sing and bells don't ring. Yet, in spite of discouragement and adversity, those who are happiest seem to have a way of learning from difficult times becoming stronger, wiser and happier as a result. If we approach adversity wisely, our hardest times can be times of greatest growth which in turn can lead toward times of greatest happines. Because Jesus Christ suffered greatly, He understanding our suffering. He understands our grief. We experience hard things so that we too may have increased compassion and understanding for others. I know why there must be opposition in all things. Adversity, if handled correcdtly, can be a blessing in our lives. We can learn to love it."

Elder L. Tom Perry shares, "One of the challenges of this mortal experience is not to allow the stresses and strains of life to get the better of us - but to endure the varied seasons of life while remaining positive, even optimistic.

Elder Neil L. Anderson, of the Seventy states, "Faith is not only a feeling. It is a decision. Fear and faith cannot coexist in our heart at the same time."

Elder Quentin L. Cook shares in his talk, "Hope Ya Know, We Had a Hard Time" quoting President Harold B. Lee, "Sometimes the things that are best for us and the things that bring eternal rewards seem at the moment to be the most bitter." He adds, that "we know from the scriptures that some trials are for our good and are suited for our own personal development. 'Wherefore, be of good cheer, and do not fear, for I the Lord am with you and will stand by you."

President Henry B. Eyring shares, "My purpose today is to assure you that our Heavenly Father and the Savior live and that they love all humanity. The very opportunity for us to face adversity and affliction is part of the evidence of their infinite love. I have seen faith and courage come from a testimony that it is true that we are being prepared for eternal life. The Lord will rescue His faithful disciples. And the disciple who accepts a trial as an invitation to grow and therefore qualify for eternal life can find peace in the midst of the struggle. He can and will give us strength to rise through every trial."

Elder Rafael E. Pino quoting President Howard W. Hunter shares, "If our lives and our faith are centered on Jesus Christ and his resotred gospel, nothing can ever go permanently wrong. On the other hand, if our lives are not centered on the Savior and his teaching, no other success can ever be permanently right."

Brothers and sisters, because we know that we are each a unique child of God, that He knows each of us individually and will be with us and even carry us through our struggles and challenged, we can have much peace in this life.

My testimony of the Savior motivates me to want to be better and to do better each eay of my life. I know what the Savior said to the prophet Joseph is true. "My son, peace be unto thy soul, thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment. And then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high."

It is my prayer that we may each endure life well knowing that are are each a unique, special and beloved child of God.

In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

A Few Reasons We Love Utah...

2009-08-30T17:48:00.020-05:00

When Brigham Young entered the Salt Lake valley, he said, "This is the place." This is the place for many of our family memories this summer. Come with me and I'll show you a few reasons that we love Utah...

COOLER WEATHER. If you could see the temperature clearly in my mom's rear view mirror, you would see the temperature reading a cool 62 degrees. This was right after lunch one day at Kneaders. (An EXCELLENT sandwich shop.) I knew you wouldn't believe it if you didn't see it for yourself. We LOVED the cooler weather in Utah!

ARCTIC CIRCLE. The best Fry Sauce on the planet. And believe it or not, we think their plain hamburgers with extra white sauce and lettuce are the best you can buy!! (We made more than one trip to Arctic Circle this summer.)

'STONE COLD' CREAMERY. Kellie and Blake used the gift cards they had been saving and treated us all to 'Stone Cold' ice cream. Lucky for Grandma and Grandpa they just live a hope, skip and a jump from this yummy ice cream shop.

TAI PAN TRADING COMPANY. This is the most AWESOME decorators warehouse ever!! I can't believe we don't have one here in DFW. Let's just say I had to make room in my suitcase for some COOL Halloween decorations. (I know, it was only the middle of August...but isn't fall your favorite season, too?)

THE OUTLET STORES IN PARK CITY. Great deals around every corner!

OLYMPIC SKI RUNS. Now here's a sight you don't see every day!

LAGOON. Super, fun memories of 8th grade Lagoon Day... Many stake Lagoon Days and, truth be told, the first place I ever held my Handsome Husband's hand. The kids had a grand time with their cousins and getting their 'adrenaline rush' on. Thanks, Nae for such a fun afternoon.

(I'm so old, I can remember when the Tidal Wave was Brand New!)

Kellie just 'had to have' a giant root beer snow cone. A yummy, cool treat on a warm day.

I used to think I would surely die every time I rode the Wild Mouse. Luckily, I always lived to tell about it. (Now so have my kids!)

My beautiful sister, Danae and her sweet, Lila Rose.

Braden, 12, Collin, 10 and Blake 11.

The Flying Aces. A tried and true favorite.

OQUIRRH MOUNTAIN TEMPLE OPEN HOUSE. What a treat to take the kids to the Oquirrh Mountain Temple Open House. We dressed in our Sunday finest and were able to see the beautiful interior of a beautiful House of the Lord before its dedication.

What's a church function without food? True to Mormon tradition, we were treated to an abundance of cookies and cold bottles of water in the Hospitality tent at the end of the tour. I was thoroughly impressed with the efforts of the Church to make all feel welcome. This temple will truly be 'beacon of light on the hill.'

Beautiful paintings in the hospitality tent.

My sister Danae, and her sweet kids, Braden, Collin, Lila and Caleb.

I love these kids! (We missed Sydnie and Mikenzie!)

This bench sits at the Stake center that faces the Oquirrh Mountain temple. I wish every Primary age child had a bench that they could sit on and look across the street at a temple, a true House of the Lord.

SNOWBIRD. For many years now, Grandma and Grandpa have invited us to share their beautiful time-share condo up at Snowbird for a week. It's always one of the highlights of our summer. Take a peek...

Looking out from the tram.

The view is spectacular from the top of the tram. Can you see the Salt Lake valley down below?

The Best Boy in the World at 'the top of the world'.

Horseback riding. The wildflowers were stunning this summer.

Grandpa and Blake crusing down the mountain on an ATV.

It was a crisp, cool 50 degree day. We actually bought ourselves some sweatshirts to keep warm. Am I complaining? Absolutely Not!! The clouds were so low. We loved it.

You definatly get your exercise at Snowbird. It seems like you're always going up or down a hill. (Can you see the Alpine slide in the distance?)

TEMPLES. My mom and I were going to visit the new Draper temple. Too bad for us, when we arrived it was closed for maintenance. Maybe next time.

THE VISITORS CENTER AT TEMPLE SQUARE. This is on the list of 'must-do's' when we come to Utah. We love spending the day at Temple Square.

The new Church History Library. Now, you could seriously spend some time here.

There was a amazing art exhibit at the Conference Center. Here's just a couple of the beautiful pieces that were on display.

The Conference Center.

The Salt Lake Temple. Recognized around the world.

The flowers were stunning on Temple Square. I took this picture in honor of my friend, Krista who has the most beautiful hydrangeas in her own yard. I knew she would love this picture.

'I love to see the temple. I'm going there someday. To feel the Holy Spirit, to listen and to pray. For the temple is a House of God, a place of love and beauty. I'll prepare myself while I am young. This is my sacred duty."

A trip to Temple Square wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Lion House Pantry for lunch. Their food takes you right back to Grandma's house when you were young. And of course, your meal just wouldn't be complete without 'melt-in-your-mouth' Lion House rolls or your choice of homemade desserts. (Between the four of us, we had chocolate layer cake, banana cream pie, apple pie, and carrot cake. It was delicious!! No need for dinner later!!)

Okay, this is TRULY the cutest baby in the world. Meet Braxton Bart Davis. He is my brother, Brandon and his wife Linda's first born son. He was highly anticipated after 5 goes with IVF. He is absolutely adorable and the love of everyone's life. I don't know what is going to to be more fun...watching Braxton grow up? Or watching my brother enjoy every second of finally getting to be a Dad... Just kind of puts a big 'ol smile on your face, doesn't it?

What a fun vacation we had this summer in Utah. We always love to eat at Cafe Rio and El Farol; spend WAY too much money at Deseret Book and the Distribution Center; see movies at Jordan Landing and much, much more.

But the thing that we love most, is simply being with the ones we love; Grandma Kathy, Grandpa Bart, Auntie Linda, Uncle Boy and Braxton and my sister Danae and her sweet family. In the eternal scheme of things we know that that's what matters most. Families really are Forever. And I love mine!!

It's an American Idol Kind-of Night

2009-07-24T10:00:00.007-05:00

On any given Tuesday and Wednesday nights during the school year, you can find our family comfortably sitting in front of the TV watching the latest American Idol competition. We admire the courage and talent of each performer. We cheer for them and hold our breath as Randy, Kara, Paula and Simon give their opinions of their individual performances. As each episode ends, we race to the telephone to vote for our favorite Idols. We can hardly believe we have to wait a whole week until we gather again in front of the TV to watch our favorites perform their newest songs.

Last night we didn't have to wait at all to see our favorite Idols perform. The last 10 American Idols each performed 3-4 songs in their entirety. It was three solid hours of an American Idol's fan dream! Here's a little peek at an awesome night at the American Airlines Center.

Scott MacIntyre was absolutely incredible!

SO much better in person than TV.

Could be another Michael W. Smith.

Matt Girard sang his heart out!

This guy can TOTALLY play the piano and sing.

Six Idols together.
Michael - a nice guy riding this wave as far as it can take him.
Lil' Rounds - can you say, hair extensions?
Anoop - he's riding the same wave Michael's on.
Matt - look for him to go places!
Megan - Absolutely gorgeous! (except for that tatoo on her arm.)
Scott - He's going places too! SO MUCH BETTER IN PERSON!!

So much fun!

Allison ROCKED THE HOUSE with

Heart's 'Barracuda'.

This chick can sing!

A favorite. Danny Gokey.

I would TOTALLY buy his CD.
Danny sings brilliantly and with such emotion.

Adam Lambert. Need I say more?

This boy's middle name is ENTERTAINER.

And he ABSOLUTELY has the talent to back it up!!

Adam can sing serious hard rock and emotional ballads just as well.

You actually can feel yourself being sucked into his songs. Awesome.

I have to say, Adam looked GOOD.

He's been working out, for sure.
(And man, can he move those hips!!)

American Idol Winner, Kris Allen.

"Aint No Sunshine"

Kris alone on the piano.

Awesome!

All 10 American Idols.

"Don't Stop Believing"

You know you're getting old when the pendulum has swung so far,

it's swung back and your kids think this is a new song.
It was great in the 80's and it's still great now!

(Truth be told, Adam owns this show!!)

A fantastic night with my favorite people!!

Summer Catch-Up

2009-07-12T18:47:00.014-05:00

Where has half the summer gone? I know. I have taken a bit of a vacation from my blog. So let's play a little summer catch-up, shall we?

We started off the summer by taking a short trip to Phoenix, Arizona. The occasion? Our dear friends, Jan and Jeff Skousen, were being sealed to their precious daughters, Mittea Sue and Annaliese Gayle, in the Mesa, Arizona temple. To say this was a joyous occasion would be a serious understatement.

On a beautiful, warm, Saturday morning, these sweet girls joined their parents in the holy temple to finally become a forever family. I can only say that even thinking back to this day makes my throat swell and tears come to my eyes. Some days we are given the opportunity to glimpse eternity. This was one of them. Thanks, Jan and Jeff, for being our special friends and inviting us to share in this special occasion with you.

The love of a mother.

The adoration of a father.

The joy of a family.

Our Gangs.

Bob and I, our dear friends, Jan and Jeff and Dave and Michelle were all newleyweds together. It's hard to believe that over 20 years later, this is what we've become. It's a pretty good-looking bunch, if I do say so myself. It was so much fun to all be together again!

You know you have true friends, when it's been years since you've all been together, yet it seems like just yesterday. We're planning our next trip together. Any ideas?

We also spent some time with Nanny and Pop. The girls stayed with Nanny and their cousins, Julie and Natalie up at Aunt Cheryl's house. They went bowling, swimming and had fun just hanging out.

Blake stayed with us at Nanny and Pop's house in Tempe. Blake loves hanging out with Pop. They went go-cart racing and ate their fair share of ice cream. Blake's favorite is mint-chocolate chip.

Bob's sister, Karen, and her husband, Tom, invited us up to their house in Gold Canyon for a delicious bar-be-que. My, how the area has grown. When we lived in Phoenix, Mesa and Gilbert from 1987-1997, we would have thought we were half-way to nowhere where Tom and Karen's house is located. But now, it is a sprawling, beautifully laid out area with growth everywhere you look!

Tom and Karen are expecting thier first baby in October. Their world is about to rocked!!! Truthfully, they'll make fantastic parents. (By, the way, Tom is a master at the grill! If you're in town, try to get yourself an invite. I'll promise you, it'll be better than any restaurant in town!)

AN ENCORE DATE WITH MY AMERICAN GIRL

What could be more fun than an afternoon with my American Girl, her American Girl friend and her Mom? Not anything I can think of. We dined on yummy appetizers and salads. And an afternoon out with friends wouldn't be complete without dessert. What do you think? Doesn't it look like a faboulous time! It was!!

The cutest American Girls ever!

American Girls having lunch with their American Moms and one very cute American Baby

Now, tell me, doesn't that look delicious!

WOO-HOO! MY MOM, SISTER AND HER KIDS

COME FOR A TEXAS VISIT!!

I have been looking forward to having my mom, my sister, Danae and her adorable 4 kids come to Texas for months now. It took tickets to see Andre Bocelli to actually get them on the road to come. But it was worth it!

The kids played, swam, played and swam. Throw in a few (okay, a lot) of video and computer games and a tea party or two and I'd say the cousins had a fantastic time together. Too bad Blake and Braden got 2nd degree burns the first few days outside in the pool. They spent 3 days without their shirts trying not to move. Thankfully, a few days later they could move their arms again.

I love just spending time with my mom and sister. We played scrabble, cooked, shopped and just enjoyed each other's company (all the while trying to keep track of an adorable 2 year old!) Here's a few things we did together.

We grilled outside. These vegetables were awesome!

We made cake balls.
WARNING!!! You can't just eat one!

We treated ourselves to the most luxurious pedicures!
Pretty, don't you think!

The kids just had to sleep out.

Andrea Bocelli, the famous Italian tenor.
This concert was absolutely awesome!!

My beautiful mom, Kathy, me and my adorable sister, Danae.

A week later we saw the amazing group Il Divo.

Simon Cowell, of American Idol fame is the brain-child behind this group. The idea behind Il Divo's creation came to Cowell after listening to Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman's rendition of Con te partirò. Aware of this new appreciation for lyrical voices and classical music, he decided to form a multinational quartet (the members hail from Spain, Switzerland, France, and the United States, and the name being in Italian) that tried to recreate the style of The Three Tenors.

Simon Cowell conducted a worldwide search for young singers who were willing to embark on the Il Divo project, which lasted two years, from 2001 until December 2003, when the fourth member of Il Divo, American tenor David Miller, was signed. The well-established formation of Il Divo comprises a renowned Spanish opera and Spanish baritone, Carlos Marín; two classically trained tenors, Swiss Urs Bühler and American David Miller; and a French pop singer, Sébastien Izambard. If you haven't heard Il Divo, treat yourself, you won't be sorry!

Do you remember having your first crush on a 'rock' star? Was it Donny Osmond? Or was it the Bay City Rollers? Well, my adorable mother has this same kind of crush on these amazing four 'gentlemen'. Half of the fun of this night was just watching my mother enjoy this concert. I learned from my mom that you're never too old to enjoy the voices (okay, 'swoon') over the voices of four gorgeous men. (And, they're not half-bad to look at, either!) Which one is your favorite today, Mom?

A HOT TEXAS NIGHT WITH

A HOT, KEITH URBAN

What better to do on a hot Texas night that to see one of the Hottest Male Country Artists, Ever, Keith Urban. This concert did not dissapoint. I have to say, nearly 24 hours later, my ears are still humming a bit. Worth the temporary hearing loss? ABSOLUTELY!!!

Keith and his band.

It's hard to believe 6 musicians can make that much sound.

My girl LOVES Keith Urban!

I'm not sure we sat down all night!

As amazing singer as Keith is,

he is just as amazing at playing his guitars.

OK. Keith REALLY WAS THIS CLOSE TO US!!!

(And yes, he is ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS!)

The Encore in a Dallas Mav's jersey!

(An American Airlines Center tradition.)

Awesome. Seriously, Awesome.

What a fun summer so far. It's so great to not be in a hurry to get anywhere in the mornings, to read the paper at a leisurely pace and just enjoy my kids. I love the simple things the most. Thursday morning movies with the kids at Harkins, strolling Central Market for tonight's dinner and just enjoying a good book.

Hopefully, you're summer is just as enjoyable! Stay cool! And enjoy the journey!

It's Almost Time for the 'Fat Lady to Sing'!

2009-06-02T11:16:00.007-05:00

It's hard to believe the 2008-09 school year has nearly come and gone. Come with me and celebrate the end of the year at Blake and Kellie's Awards Ceremonies...

Not every kid in the 5th grade gets awards.

This year, Blake got three.

Service award for being a Courtesy Kid,

Outstanding Citizenship and

Perfect Attendance!

Awesome Blake!

Everyone loves Mr. Martin,

Florence Elementary's Principal.

Kellie received awards for Choir,

Outstanding Citizenship,

Physical Fitness Award and

Perfect Attendance

She also received a Gold Medal

in the Florence Elementary's

Reading Olympics

Way to go, Kellie!!

Back in her class, Kellie received the

"Always the Optomist" award

for always having a smile on her face.

That's my Kellie!

Mrs. Morris and Kellie

All of the girls in Kellie's class.

What a fun year both Blake and Kellie had!

Woo Hoo! It's Summer Time!!

What's New at Stonebridge

2009-06-02T11:12:00.002-05:00

Here's the last couple of posts on our marquis here at Stonebridge.

Whew...What A Busy Week!

2009-05-30T16:39:00.011-05:00

My week has probably been a lot like yours. I can't decide if I'm coming or going!?! The end of the school year is loaded with LOTS of fun activities, programs and ceremonies. Here are just a few that kept us all busy this week.

Kellie was Gretel in her 3rd grade class's presentation of Hansel and Gretel. She sang two beautiful songs (even though I tease her that she has her dad's voice...) and did a fantastic job acting. Great Job Kellie!

'Gretel' dancing with Hansel

Mother telling Hansel and 'Gretel' to be careful in the forest while they are looking for food.

Mikenzie's Last Choir Performance of the Year

Here's all the girls in the choir singing "Reflection" from the Disney movie Mulon.

Mikenzie's Women's Chorus singing 'Hawaiian Roller-Coaster Ride' from Lilo and Stitch

So fun!!

Bob and I attended an American Helicopter Society Banquet at the Gaylord Texan Resort.

It's always nice to enjoy an evening out with my Handsome Husband.

p.s. Today is our 22nd wedding anniversary.

Funny how you can be more in love with

your spouse 22 years later than the day you were married!!

Mikenzie and I enjoyed a wonderful bridal shower

for our dear friend Courtney Schoen.

She is such a doll and her fiancee Cam,

is getting a real gem!!
Courtney... We love her!!
Blake had a soccer tournament this weekend.

Saturday night was a BEAUTIFUL night

for a soccer game!

Memorial Day 2009

2009-05-25T18:21:00.009-05:00

And I'm proud to be an American,
where at least I know I'm free.
And I won't forget the men who died,
who gave that right to me.

~Lee Greenwood

I love three-day weekends. This holiday weekend even my Handsome Husband was home. He starting checking his 'honey-d0' list off one by one today. Some painting, some organizing, a trip to Good Will and a few other odds and ends.

I, of course, make a good supervisor. I busied myself with making Funeral Potatoes for a funeral today and a few other things.

But, today, I couldn't let Memorial Day go by without thinking about, with extreme humility and gratitude, the many men and women throughout the history of this country who have given the ultimate sacrifice so that I might have the opportunity to live in this blessed of all lands.

In my home, we reverence those who have ever served our country, living or dead. It is because of them, their love of our country, their courage to stand for what is right and good that we enjoy the unparalelled blessings that we do today.

Today, on Memorial Day, from the bottom on my heart, Thank You.

Here's the sign I posted on our marquis this weekend.

This morning, to my delight, many flags were flying this morning here in Stonebridge. I hope there were many flags flying in your neighborhoods, too. Enjoy...

"Mom, I'm Bored!"

2009-05-16T16:02:00.010-05:00

What do you do on a rainy day when your 9 year-old comes to you and says, "I'm Bored!" You suggest she could clean her room. No takers there. "How about playing Barbies or organizing your American Girl Doll stuff." A simple negative nod of the head. "How about playing a good old-fashioned board game? You know the ancient ones that you actually have to roll the dice and move the men, like Life, Sorry or Monopoly?" About now, I'm getting the look like I have three heads all of a sudden. Hmmm. I'm almost out of ideas until I look out the window to see big drops continue to fall from the very gray sky outside. The nester in me knows that there is nothing better than the smell of fresh-baked bread on a gray, cozy, we-might-as-well-stay-inside day.

"Hey. I know. How about learning how to make bread with me?" I reluctantly suggest.

"Sure!" The cute, little nine-year old girl, replies.

So we both don our favorite aprons and get to work. Come along. We'll show you how it's done.

The recipe for Fool-Proof Homemade

Whole Wheat Bread

This is for real, folks.
We're actually going to pretend we're 21st century
pioneers and grind our own wheat!

Lucky for us, we have just the wheat we need.
Soft, white winter wheat.

Start by slowly putting 10 cups of your
wheat in your wheat grinder.
It takes a few minutes. It's loud.
It sounds like an airplane taking off.

A few minutes later,
you've just made your very own
healthy, fresh, whole-wheat flour.

Here' the staring ingredients.
Flour, salt, yeast, oil, honey, dough enhancer and water.
That's all folks!

First, pour 6 cups of warm water into your mixing bowl.
We're using my prized Bosch mixer.
I think this thing could actually mix cement.

Then add a few cups of flour and.......

mix for a few seconds.

Then add 1 1/2 t. salt.

Add 2 T. dough enhancer.

(Don't ask me what it does. It just does it.)

Add 1/2 c. oil.

Any kind will do.

Add 1/2 c. honey.

(Here's a tip: By adding your oil first, your honey

won't stick to the same measuring cup.)

And finally, add 3 heaping T. of yeast.

Yes, I said, heaping.

Add a few cups of flour a little at a time,

until the flour that was previously ground is gone.

When all the flour is finally in, let the dough mix

for 10 minutes.

10 minutes is up.

You should have a beautiful dough that is

beginning to clear the sides of the bowl.

With flour, less is more.

You know what I mean.

Oil your countertop with a little bit of oil.

Pour out all of your beautiful dough.

Dough. It's a miracle in the making.

Our dough will make 6 perfect loaves.

But today, since we're tricky, we're going to make

four regular loaves and two special loaves.

One cinnamon loaf and one loaf with cinnamon AND raisins.
My Handsome Husband LOVES Cinnamon Raisin Bread!

Aren't they lovely?

Ready to rise.

Place your ready loves in an oven that has been

preheated to 170 degrees and then turned off.

They should rise beautifully and double in about 30 minutes.

About 30 minutes later, they've doubled in size.

Simply turn your oven on to 350 degrees and press Start.

About 30 minutes later, the smell of heaven

starts to permeate the house.

You know your loaves are perfect when their

internal temperature reaches 190 degrees.

Oh man does it smell good in here!!

Six perfect loaves.

Bread. The staff of life.

Great job, Kellie!

You did it!

It's finally time.
Let's test them out.

And the verdict is?

YUMMY!!!

So, the next time your 9 year-old girl says, "I'm bored!" You'll know exactly what to do!!

I'm Too Young For This!!

2009-05-15T18:36:00.007-05:00

It seems like yesterday I was the one who was sixteen and eagerly anticipating a 'prized', authentic, personal drivers license.

Today, I am the mom of a sixteen year old who has been eagerly anticipating her own 'prized', authentic, personal drivers license.

For those of you who think this day will never come as you rock your babies to sleep, let me tell that it will!!

Follow me. I'll show you just what you have to look forward to...

First, on the day she gets her driver's license, you let your sixteen year old 'skip' school. It's only one day. Come, on. You know you skipped a day of school here and there, too. Make a special day of it. Plus, it's the only way you won't have to wait HOURS at the DMV. Then, leave REAL early!! If the DMV opens up at 9, leave at 8. Unless you want to listen to a whole book on tape on your IPOD, leave early. We were lucky! Today we were in and out in about 45 minutes. Woo Hoo!!

After giving the 'efficient' government employee all of her paperwork, Mikenzie was told to fill out another simple paper. Yes, she is an American citizen. No, she has not been convicted of any drug or other serious charges. At least in the last two years. No, she does not have seizures. Yes, she does wear glasses to drive. Ya da Ya da...

Lucky for Mikenzie, she was number 70. It only took 30 minutes for them to call our number.

Finally! #70.

Get in line.

We entertained ourselves with the various signs

that were hung around this 'gorgeous' government building.

Don't, I repeat, Don't come to the DMV without
EVERYTHING you need!!

Looks like a few people have
stood along the wall. Hmm.
(Or those are some REALLY dirty windows!)

Oh, My! We're Next!!

Our 'efficient' government worker was very nice.

(Thank Goodness!!)

Let's check those eyes out.

Yes, they are blue and beautiful,

but can you see?

Signature, please.

Just in case she ever robs a bank,

Mikenzie's fingerprints are on file

for all eternity.

Smile for the camera!!

"Here's your license until your real one comes in the mail.

Rule #1: Only 1 friend in the car for 6 months.

Rule #2: Absolutely, NO cell-phone usage or

texting in the car while driving!!

Rule #3: Obey all other rules and laws

of the State of Texas.

Rule #4: Obey all other rules and laws

set by Parents!!

(Not really, but it sounds real good, huh!!!)

"Do you agree to all these rules?"

"Yes"

"Sign on the dotted line."

It's official. I am officially the gray-haired mother of

a driving sixteen year old.

Truly, I am so proud of Mikenzie.

She is a beautiful and responsible young adult.

I suppose at some time, maybe even at the DMV,

you've got to let them spread their wings

and learn to fly.

Oh, my. Now I know what my own mother felt like

when I was sixteen years old.

It's good. It's all good.

It's official!!

Sunflowers

2009-05-15T18:32:00.002-05:00

I saw these at Central Market and just had to buy them.

Isn't there something about Sunflowers that just makes you Smile?

"In Simpleness, there is beauty."

Now, Smile!

She Must Really Sing!?!

2009-05-15T18:12:00.004-05:00

I love to sing. I sing in the shower, in the car and anywhere else there is music. I always have the radio on and can recall the lyrics to almost every song from the 80's on. I assumed my girls would have the same love of music that I do. Well, maybe two out of three isn't bad.

I have one 'spicy red-head' who I have never heard sing. For Real!! As we sit next to each other at church, I can barely get her to help me hold the Hymnbook, let along sing! I was thrilled when she said she wanted to take Choir this year at school. Maybe... Just Maybe...

Well, I still have never heard her sing. But we must be moving in the right direction, because I really saw her move her lips during the Keller Middle School Spring Choir Concert.

Each song was absolutely lovely. These boys and girls can REALLY sing! Their harmonies were beautiful. They were poised and professional. It was a really wonderful concert. She Must Really Sing!!

Sydnie's 7th grade choir

If you look real close, Sydnie's the one smack dab in the middle.

There she is!

The whole Keller Middle School Choir.

They ended their show with

'Don't Worry, Be Happy'

It was Awesome!!

Sydnie with her look-alike friend, Sarah.
Heaven help us all when TWO red-heads get together!

I Sing, Can You?

Apparently, She Can.

What's New in Stonebridge?

2009-05-15T18:06:00.004-05:00

As you leave our neighborhood, we have a new marquis. I volunteered to be the 'keeper of the sign'. I post any needed information to the homeowners. Most of the time I have one side that I put up a silly joke or riddle. Check back occasionally to see what's making people smile as they leave our neighborhood. Here's the sign this week.

Grateful Sundays

2009-05-10T13:55:00.007-05:00

"There is gratitude for our mothers. Mothers, who willingly made that personal journey into the valley of the shadow of death to give us birth, deserves our undying gratitude. One writer summed up our love for mothers when he declared, 'God could not be everywhere, and so He gave us mothers.

While on the cruel cross of Calvary, suffering intense pain and anguish, Jesus saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother!' (John 19:26-27.) What a divine example of gratitude and love!" --Thomas S. Monson

Today is Mother's Day, 2009. Here are a few things I'm grateful for this week.

* My Mother. My mother is the kindest, most loving, gentle, soft-spoken, selfless, and serving person you might ever meet. She has been such a wonderful example to me of all things good. She gives me courage and strength to go forth in life and conquer whatever challenges might be set before me. She is my quiet cheerleader. I am honored to be her daughter and to be able to call her my mother. But I'm even more blessed to call her My Friend. For My Mother, Thank You.

* My Kids. If you would have told me 25 years ago I would be the proud mother of 4 beautiful children, I might have called you a bit crazy. But after almost 22 years of a happy marriage and 3 beautiful daughters and 1 wonderful son later, I called myself extremely blessed.

Each one of my children is as different as the seasons of the year. Each brings such different and unique gifts and talents to our family. I can't imagine being on this journey of eternal life without each one of them. They teach me more about life than I could ever hope to teach them. For a loving Heavenly Father who has enough trust in me to bless me with such unbelievable and special children, Thank You.

* Wonderful Women. When we begin this life's journey, little did we know that we would have the opportunity to work with, become friends with, be influenced by and love the wonderful women that we would have the great fortune to cross paths with. I am thankful for the wonderful women throughout my life who have taught me in Primary, Young Women and Relief Society. I am thankful for wonderful women who have shared their knowledge about food storage, exercise and their zest for life. I am thankful for wonderful women who have taught me to bake the best loaves of bread and many other goodies. I am thankful for wonderful women who have taught me the blessings of service by their personal actions. I am thankful for wonderful women who have shared their personal wisdom with me and have reminded me that it's not always about the destination, but about the journey; to stop and enjoy the little things; that life, when you really get down to it, is truly about relationships and love. For all the Wonderful Women who have influenced my life, Thank You.