Conference Weekend

 

The first weekends of April and October come with much excitement and anticipation. I look forward to the spiritual high I receive as I listen to the words of God through His chosen Prophets. This weekend was no different from any other Conference weekend. It was filled with inspiration and the drive to make my life better. 

Both Andrew and I noticed the theme of the whole conference or at least a topic that seemed to resonate was that of missionary work. My heart leapt and I felt that surge of joy that comes only through the Spirit as a Prophet of God made the announcement about the age of young missionaries. My thoughts turned to the importance of this the work of Gods Kingdom and the magnitude of our responsibility to forward His work here on the earth. I was in awe as to how the Lord works. The Spirit testified to me once again that God is at the head of this gospel and that I am grateful to have the Gospel in my life.

Just a side note, with this new announcement came the realization that we will be paying for a few more missions. We could have 3 missionaries out in the field at a given time... multiple times!!

Easter Festivities

Our family had a fun day on Saturday with hunts and coloring eggs,

but must say that the best part is celebrating the Resurrection of our Savior and the hope of new life.

Happy Belated Easter!

Back to Snow Days

Back to snow days...

This year brought quite a few snow storms many of which created lots of drifts. Some of the drifts were 6'-8' high.
 The back yard had big drifts when dug out created a tunnel. 

The kids had their own tunnel system in the backyard,
reminded me of the nearby prairie dogs.

Alison and Jen were the true engineers of the operation.

A New Addiction

I flew out to California on Southwest Airlines, where you choose your seat. I didn't want to sit next to a wierdy so as I boarded I perused the seats to find the perfect place. And that I did. I found an older lady sitting in a middle seat to sit next to. I was looking forward to relaxing, maybe taking in some zzzs. But instead we got to talking, practically the while ride. I found out that we had something in common. We both like to sew. She urged me to take up quilting of which I replied that I don't have the time. She insisted that I start, that it was such a fun hobby, and to help me in that pursuit, she would send me a few of the books she had written and made on quilting. As we parted she got my address. A few weeks after getting home, to my surprise, there they were in the mail. She has made some beautiful quilts and gave me the books with the patterns. Receiving the books got me more excited to start. I started making one for Hannah at first, pink, pink, pink. (It is about 1/2 way done) I found that I can get a lot done while the kids are at their activities on Wed. nights.So that is when I usually find the time.

I got this crazy idea to make one for my niece who is turning 18. I thought it would be nice for her to have a special quilt as she leaves for college with her favorite colors, white and turquoise. We had a surprise party for Julie and I gave the not yet completed quilt along with a pillowcase and pillow for her bed.

So, here is my first quilt:

 

 I have Hannahs "Tutti Frutti" to finish and I have started another one of which Leanne has claimed, and I have material bought for another fun starry one. 

All I can say is that it is addicting, very addicting.

California Before Christmas

This past December I was able to go home to California for a visit before Christmas. It was very nice to be home again to revel in a few memories and enjoy a little time away. 

I forget how beautiful the view of the SF Bay is from my parents home. 

While there, it was fun to go to a craft fair that my mom and sisters prepared for. I was impressed with their talent. They had beautiful ornaments and paper crafts. 

While at the craft fair, and much to Kelly's dismay, Kaitlynns grandma bought her this stuffed animal. I had not laughed that hard for a long time when she made the face of the doll.

I hadn't been home at Christmas time for many years. I was filled with many memories of my childhood. One fond memory was the decorations on the ceiling and the Christmas tree lit up on the South San Francisco hill. Lilac Lane was a favorite to drive by but apparently the community doesn't do that any more. It was a nice reminder of traditions.

Ron brought his family up to spend the day. 

It was nice to reunite with all of my siblings.

Thanks for a wonderful visit.

Fun in the Snow

That unique sled is fun but can only house a few at  a time. 

So while waiting for our turn, this is what we are doing...

We found a new sled hill behind our house. 

It's always fun!

A Unique Sled

So Andrew likes to go to local auctions. 

A few months ago he went to one and came home with this beauty:

I saw it sitting outside on the lawn and just had to laugh. 

It is a childrens car seat welded to 2 skis. 

We were excited for our 1st big snow storm to try it out...

  It cost 7 Bucks and has been worth all of the FUN and JOY 7 Bucks can bring.

I'm FREE!!

Alright, so I haven't posted in... well forever.
I will share the most recent news of the day...

After 16 LONG years, it is OFFICIAL!! I AM DIAPER FREE!!!

In those 16 years  we have come close to being diaper free for a short period of time but have never quite achieved that goal before another baby graced our home.

When the twins were potty training I tried Brooke right along with them. She knew what to do and could go on demand, but just wouldn't do it. I got frustrated and gave up for a while thinking it will NEVER happen. That way of thinking was dashed when Brooke got a terrible diaper rash. I told her that she wouldn't hurt if she would just wear her panties. Slowly but surely she was convinced.

I have a theory:
The first time the first child walks, talks, crawls, or does virtually anything it is amazing and wonderful. When the next children that come along it is fun, but just not the same.
It doesn't matter how many children you have when any of your children get potty trained it is ALWAYS as good as the first time.