Five people I am lucky to have in my life

You know how there are some people who just make your life better, more fun, more uplifting, easier, etc?  The other day I was thinking about how many people I have like that in my life.  I know many of them but some of them really stand out!

My neighbor Erin is one of those people.  She has got to be one of the funniest people I know.  She has such a funny way of talking about real life problems that will make anyone laugh!  But at the same time, she is also very realistic and sees things as they are.  She recently went through a very difficult time and as I sat in her living room and listened to her pour her heart out as she sobbed, I saw a very tender side of her.  She saw things for what they were and was willing to do anything it took to get through it.  To me, the most admirable thing about Erin is the way she mothers.  She didn't grow up with a mom who cared much for her so she makes up for it tenfold with her girls.  She shows amazing patience and always speaks in sweet tones to them.  When I am feeling impatient with my kids I will often put myself in check by asking, "what would Erin do?"  That's all it takes and I realize I need to back up and try again because Erin would handle it with patience and kindness.  Overall, Erin is one of those people you want to be around, don't want to leave, and feel like a better person after being in her presence.

Another one of those people is our former Temple President and family friend, Merlin Hancock.  I don't think I have ever known another person like him.  When you're with him, you feel like you are the only person there and that you are the only thing that matters to him.  He makes you feel like you are the most beautiful, wonderful, and important person in the world.  Anytime I would see him at the temple, he would give me a big hug, and while holding my arm take a few moments to talk to me.  I always hoped I would run into him while I was there just so I could have a minute with him.  One day I was in his office with him and Jared and he asked me how I felt about being sealed for eternity yo my husband and family.  Few things in life make me tear up, but that question had tears running down my face and my heart swelling with love.  What does it take to be a person who can make the rest of the world disappear?  I want to know his secret and do that for other people!

If there was an award for having everything on hand at all times, that award would go to my friend Lacey.  That girl has bailed me out countless times!  Before we had Walmart closeby my sister needed a few pieces of cardstock, I knew just who to call!  When I needed a scrap of white fabric, I knew just who to call!  When I wanted to make quilts with my girls but needed a little direction, I knew just who to call!  That lady has everything!  And she doesn't just offer you a little bit of what she has, she gives it all!  She gave my sister the entire ream of cardstock and refused to let her replace or repay her.  When I needed a scrap of fabric she sent me away with a gigantic bag so I would have options to choose from.  When I called quilting advice, she showed up at my house with the frames and needles, helped me put it all together and got us started.  She is amazing and a very handy person to know.

My friend Raygon is one of the greatest friends I have ever had.  She randomly mails me fun packages that have included things from white chocolate M&M's, clothes, a baby wrap, homemade vanilla, and more!  Sometimes I am expecting them and other times it's a surprise.  We text almost daily and I always enjoy hearing from her.  Sometimes we text about serious things we have going on in life and other times we report funny things that have happened.  She is a true friend- she does not judge me, she gives me awesome ideas, sets me straight when I need it and is always there.  We don't talk on the phone and we only see each other once a year (maybe) but she is one of the greatest friends I have.

Another friend I am lucky to have is Mindy.   Mindy is one of those girls who I know I can always count on for a laugh.  We have so many inside jokes, many that go back several years.  I don't think we have ever had a visit with each other that has not included a laugh.  We are also confidants for each other.  She's had a few surprise pregnancies and I feel honored that she shared those with me before anyone else.  I was also the first to find out (other than her husband) that after five boys she is finally having a girl.  Finally!  I threw her a surprise and impromptu gender reveal party and I have to say it was one of the greatest moments of our friendship.  It was only my family, her family, and one other friend at the party but we enjoyed every second out of the news.  She is also dependable and I love that about her.  I know I can always count on her to follow through with anything she promises.  She is one heck of a friend and I am glad we live close to each other.

I am so lucky to have these people in my life.  I hope that in some way I can be like Erin, President Hancock, Lacey, Rayon, and Mindy and enrich the lives of people around me.

Grandpa Stanford

I have very few memories of my Grandpa Stanford.  He died when I was in fifth grade and I feel like I barely knew him.  Through the amazing process of Family History I feel like I've come to know him  through the years more than I ever knew him in this life.

Here are the things I knew about Grandpa before his death.  (true or not true.  Remember, I was a just a kid.):

He was gruff.

His father died when he was a young boy.  His mom later remarried a man who was not good to him.

At the age of 14, he ran away from home and became a hobo, bumming from one freight train to another.

He had many talents and interests: woodworking, airplanes, bowling, and more.

He was not a man of many words.

He worked for many years at General Motors.

His things were not to be touched.

According to Grandma Stanford, he was not affectionate.  (And she wished he was.)

Here are some of the memories of him that I have:

He would sit on the front porch with Binki the dog by his side and watch the cars on 8th Avenue pass.

He slept with the police scanner on.

He went to bed very early and got up very early.

He would walk through the kitchen and down the hall to Grandma's TV room and ask her to "dig" him some ice cream.  Then go back down the hall and through the kitchen to his TV room where he waited for his ice cream.

I was always afraid to talk in front of or to him.

He would listen to bowling the TV with the volume very high.

He had a few heart attacks during my lifetime.  After one heart attack, my family went to visit him in the hospital but I could not go because I was in bed with a badly sprained ankle.

Honestly, I was terrified of Grandpa.  He was so scary to me!  He wasn't a warm and fuzzy person and I wasn't sure how he felt about me being around.  As I've grown and wondered more about his life, I've set out to learn more about him. 

He was born in Muskogee, Oklahoma on August 14, 1918.  He had one biological sister named Martha.

Grandpa and his sister, Martha.

His father died of pneumonia when he was about 4 years old, leaving his mom with two small children.  She eventually remarried a man by the name of Walter Hall.  Walter didn't take to his new son very well, so eventually, Carson left home.  

Grandpa got married in 1940 and started a family but that marriage ended.  In 1947, when he was 29, he married Grandma who was 18.  They met while Grandma was working as a soda jerk.  Things were never smooth sailing for them.  The Gospel was not a part of their lives until much later and they lived lifestyles that did not bring happiness the way the teachings of Jesus Christ does.  Eventually they pulled their lives together and were sealed in the temple.

I've had some very special experiences that have helped me see that Grandpa is a wonderful man who loves his family very much.  Considering his difficult childhood I feel like he did the very best he could but had to develop a hard shell to make it.  I am certain he wasn't all gruff and hard edges during this life, just from a kid's point of view, it seemed that way!



Without the ability to study his life and learn more about his childhood I would have never had the chance to see a different side of him.  

18 in 2018

While I was painting today I listened to a podcast where they suggested writing a list of 18 things you would like to do in 2018.  I'm not much of a New Year's resolution setter, I usually just challenge myself throughout the year and go with it.  I felt like this was an easy solution to that- simply document things I hope to do, some big some small.

1.  Visit one new state
2.  Do not do any crafts
3.  Finish the entire house project we have going on
4.  Teach my kids to work harder
5.  Continue working on my goal to not procrastinate
6.  Go to lunch with two different friends
7.  Never miss a Temple Thursday
8.  Be a good Trek Ma
9.  Keep a clean car
10. Visit Jordan and Nichole in CA
11. Visit Disneyland
12. Grow my hair back out
13. Try three new restaurants in the area
14. Continue a regular exercise regimen
15. Make two new friends
16. Save a certain amount of money (a number I have in my head)
17. Take two new photography classes
18. Overall, make 2018 a much better year than 2017 was!

Peer Facilitation

In High School, I chose an elective that only a small handful of other people chose- Peer Facilitation.  This meant I was able to work closely with the greatest kids in the entire school, the Special Ed kids.  Our class periods were 90 minutes long so I would take a few of them to Cooking or Art class for about 30-45 minutes then we would go back to their classroom for the remainder of the period.  I would work one on one with them, play games, work on simple tasks or just hang out with them.  It was my very favorite time of day!  Those kids were so special.  I don't care to remember much about high school or the people I knew, but I will never forget the kids I came to love through Peer Facilitation.

R to L  Back row:  Manuel, Michael, Johnathon, Gilbert, Daniel

Middle row: Ashley, Keith, Stephanie, Manuel, Bill, Roise

Front row Jim, Donella, Toni

I remember Toni for her contagious smile.  Her family obviously cared about her very much.  Her hair was always done perfectly and she was clad in the most stylish clothes.  I don't think I have ever known someone whose smile could light up a room like hers.

And sweet little Stephanie with Down syndrome.  Man, was she boy crazy!  She would blush at the sight of any boy who passed her.  She had the sweetest most gentle personality.

Johnathon Baker aka Stone Dawg (Seriously!).  He was an aspiring gangster and breakdancer.  Everyone knew and loved him.  He would start breakdancing (which he was terrible at) during lunch or passing period and everyone would circle around to watch and cheer him on.  He's got to be nearly 40 years old now but my friend, Monica, told me he is still running the streets of Southwest Queen Creek, or as she still calls it, Chandler Heights.

Now Micheal, oh what a sweet kid.  He was head over heels in love with Stephanie.  He would wait for her outside the classroom door and light up the moment he saw her.  I was able to take him to Art class and spend time getting to know him personally.  He had the sweetest and softest heart of anyone.

Ashley was a force to be reckoned with!  She was a fireball and could be a little mean.  But if she loved you, she really loved you!  And you knew it.  Fortunately, I felt like someone she loved.  It wasn't easy to make her laugh but when she did give in and chuckle it would warm your heart!

Jim was the most handicapped of all of the kids but I am so glad I had experience with him. It was a little difficult in the beginning because he had less control of his body which meant he would flail, drool and moan.  But working with him helped me to overcome any fear or trepidation I had.  The ability to work with and understand people like Jim has come in handy many times in my life!

Little Donella was truly one of the happiest people I have ever known.  I don't think I ever saw her without a big grin on her face.  I often wonder what she knew that I didn't know that made her so happy.  Her body was limited in its capabilities and her life had its challenges but she smiled all the way through it.

Daniel was a giant!  He was the biggest and most intimidating of the bunch, but there was nothing to be intimidated by other than his size.  He was nothing more than a teddy bear.  He always wore a plain black t-shirt and jeans.  It was almost like a uniform for him.

Bill was the cutest!  I remember him always being so cheerful.  He was also polite and well mannered. I remember that he always wore polo shirts with jeans or shorts and tennis shoes.  Bill, what a funny name for a teenage kid, but it suited him.  He seemed like an old soul stuck in the body of a teenager with the mentality of a child.

I will be forever grateful for the chance I had to work with these special kids for two years.  It has helped so much as I have encountered other people with similar needs throughout the years.  The things I learned, the fears I overcame and the opportunity to be with such perfect and celestial people changed my life.

Go to websites

If I want to find a deal:  Hip2Save

If want to listen to something uplifting:  Mormon Channel

If I want to check an Amazon price:  Camel Camel Camel

If I want a DIY home remedy:  One Good Thing By Jillee

If I want to try a new recipe idea:  Mels Kitchen Cafe

If I want a hair tutorial:  The Small Things Blog

If I want a home DIY or decorating idea:  Young House Love

If I want a workout:  Fitness Blender

If I want a super simple sewing project:  Made Every Day with Dana

If I want a coupon code:  Retail Me Not

Something Special

Being a parent is harder than I ever thought it would be but more rewarding than I could have ever imagined.  Each of my kids brings something special to our family and helps make us who we are.  I thought it would be fun to dig a little deep and share a few things about each of my kids that make them special.

 Addie- she is the perfect oldest child.  She always steps up when she sees I need help and always backs down when she sees I need a little room to breathe- all without me ever saying a word.  She tries very hard to care for her younger siblings, even when they don't easily accept it.  

One thing I really admire about Addie is that she is not afraid to stand up for herself.  Recently she was struggling with a friend at school.  Instead of letting it get to her and wondering what went wrong, she approached the girl, asked what the issue was and cleared the air.  And just like that they moved past it and are doing much better!  Most girls, especially girls her age, would not dare speak up.  She is also not afraid to stand up to me to tell me when I need to change something that frustrates her.  

And she has a lot of nerve, in a good way.  She is not afraid to do new things or put herself out there. I was so proud of her for running for Student Council.  Elections involved giving a speech to the entire student body and she approached it like it was nothing at all.  She won the vote and is handing her responsibilities (which are way more than I ever expected!) like a champ.  It involves doing a lot of things that would make some kids her age squirm, but not Addie.  She rolls up her sleeves and gets the job done!  On that same note, she is so great to have in Young Women.  She always has an answer to help move the lesson along.  One of the other leaders mentioned this to me recently and it was such a nice thing to hear.  I hope this skill takes her far in life.

Addie is also very open with me, and I love it!  She tells me all about her crushes, the drama of Jr. High, her struggles and frustrations, her highs and lows, who said or did what, etc.  I hope she will always be that way.   She is a great girl and I love the bond we have.

Kimber- what a great girl!  Kimber loves her mom!  And doesn't like to be far from me.  It's flattering at times.  She is also a great friend.  She is devoted and complimentary.  I know this because she often comes home saying great things or reporting on the nice things she noticed about someone at school.  She looks for the best in her friends and stays true to them.  She also has a broad variety of friends and I admire that.

She has been playing the piano for three years now and is lightyears ahead of where I was at her age. She has picked up on the piano so well!  She loves to play hymns and songs from the Primary Children's Song Book- and she plays them so great!  It's so nice to hear A Child's Prayer or Choose the Right rather than the ear piercing beginner songs most kids struggle through.

Kimber doesn't love to do hard things but who does, right?  The thing I love is that she will do them and always come out seeing good changes in herself.  She used to be so afraid to participate in the Primary Program.  It was terrifying to her but she would do it and each year she noticed that it got easier and easier.  We just had our program on Sunday and she gave a talk!  She did wonderfully!  She has also had an interesting year at school.  Two weeks into the school year I requested that she be moved to another teacher.  It was extremely difficult for her to say the least.  But she did it and now she is seeing how much better off she is.  She has made a new friend, she loves her teacher and she is enjoying the growth she has seen in herself.  I love to hear how she feels the change has benefited her.

I'm not sure where she gets it, but she is very artistic.  She loves drawing, painting, creating, designing- basically anything that uses her creative side.  Last week for Spirit Week she decided she wanted to make a pineapple headband to wear for Tropical Day.  She asked me to take her to the store to pick up the supplies, a headband and pipe cleaners.  Not catching her vision, I dragged her around the store for nearly an hour trying to come up with another idea but she kept insisting she knew what she was doing.  I finally relented and wouldn't you know it?  She blew me away with the most adorable pineapple made from pipe cleaners hot glued to a headband.

Kimber is a fantastic student.  She has maintained an A+ report card since she started school.  If she doesn't understand a concept she works at it until she understands it adequately.  Her teachers have also told me this about her.  Her new teacher recently told me that Kimber is one of her top three favorite students.  I'm not exactly sure she should admit that she has favorite students, but I was glad to hear she likes Kimber so much.

Lucy- She has got to be the sweetest 7-year-old out there.  She is super timid and does not like to be the center of attention.  Trust me, she flat out refused to say her part in the Primary Program last week!  

Not only does Lucy keeps us laughing but she laughs easily at herself.  For some reason she has misunderstood several of our conversations lately, only to chime in with a very distorted view of what she thinks was said.  It's often way off- but when we laugh she laughs right along with us.

Along with Kimber, Lucy is a great friend.  She makes friends easily and is a ton of fun to play with.  She is easily entertained and when she has friends over they never complain of boredom.  Not only is she a good friend at school but she is a good friend at home as well.  She plays nicely with everyone, especially Colton.  She is happiest when she is outside riding her bike, jumping on the trampoline or having some type of adventure.

I love to listen to Lucy pray.  She asks for the greatest things without any coaching.  Just tonight she said, "bless that if anyone has a test or anything tomorrow that they will do good."  Every time she says the nightly prayer she asks for something that we actually need but no one else really thinks of.  It's really sweet!

Lucy is always dressed so great and it has nothing to do with me.  She really cares about her appearance. She usually chooses her hairstyle for the day based on her outfit- a ponytail for something casual, a crown braid for something fancy, etc.  She takes good care of herself and it shows.

Colton- our caboose.  I hate to think that I almost didn't have him!  He makes our life so exciting!  It's fun to have a kid who gets dirty, loves tractors and building things.  It's definitely a change from my girls!

I always heard that boys have a special love for their mamas and I've learned that it's true!  He is rough and messy, but he melts for his mom and I melt for him.  He is my buddy and he keeps me busy during the day when it's just the two of us.  I have an extra year with him before kindergarten because he is a September baby, and I am so grateful!  We have a great time together.

I've noticed that Colton makes people around him happy.  That's kind of a neat thing for a four-year-old.  His Primary teacher seems to adore him and often tells me how happy he makes her.  His preschool teacher says similar things.  I know he makes his parents and his sisters happy but I'm glad other people get to experience it as well.

He is also easy to please, which is nice because he spends a lot of time playing alone.  I will often find him playing in quietly with his trucks, lining them up from biggest to smallest or by color, just happy as can be.  He will play outside for hours digging in the dirt or burying seeds to make a garden.  He doesn't need constant supervision, he's just happy to be busy.

Man, I've got some great kiddos.  They keep life busy but worthwhile and rewarding.

Snacks

I am a big time snacker.  In fact I've discovered that I'd rather snack than have a meal.  Because of that I am always on the hunt for a yummy snack.  Here are some of my favorites.

Honey Vanilla Greek Yogurt with berries.  Easy and yum!

Roasted Vegetables.  I love to roast a variety of veggies then eat them over a period of a few days.  Some of my favorite vegetables to combine together are: brussel sprouts, broccoli, red onion, zucchini, cauliflower and red bell pepper.  Really, the possibilities are limitless.  I just cap everything up, drizzle with olive oil and add some flavor like salt and pepper or Italian seasoning.  400 degrees and 15 minutes later and you have a healthy and yummy snack.

Talenti Gelato.  I've eyeballed this for a long time but never felt like I could justify the price.  After hearing about it on a podcast I talked myself into spending almost $5 on a pint.  It's very indulgent so you get satisfaction out of a single bite.

Sliced tomatoes with salt and pepper.  It's easy as 1-2-3!  Sliced tomatoes are also super yummy with graded parmesan or sliced mozzarella cheese.

Steamed edamame.  I love these steamable bags- toss one in the microwave and in three minutes you a have a  healthy snack.

We don't eat Kettle Corn often, but when we do it's a fun treat.  Sweet but salty...mmmmm!

Speaking of popcorn, I came across this stuff a few years ago and got hooked!  I'm glad it's a seasonal product and that it's not carried at a store near me!

I only eat cinnamon bears about once a year, but when I do I totally enjoy the heck out of them!

Even better?  Chocolate covered cinnamon bears!

Me and my kids love love love frozen grapes!  They taste like candy but they're actually good for you.  Just pull your grapes off of the vine, throw them on a sheet pan, flash freeze them, then add handful size amounts to ziplocks bags.  Store them in the freezer for a quick-on-the-go-snack.

Sister Beast

I've developed a friendship with the funnest little grandma lady.  She attends the same temple session as I do each week.  Her name is Doris but I've affectionally come to call her Sister Beast.  Let me explain.

Doris has a great personality.  She is probably close to 80 years old but she is spunky and a crack up.  A few weeks ago she told a story of when she was about 17 years old.  In her childhood when you lost a tooth you placed it in a cup of water and left it in the kitchen window.  The tooth fairy would come visit during the night, take the tooth and replace it with a penny.

One evening her mom, who wore dentures, took her teeth out and left them in a cup of water on the window sill.  During the night Doris snuck into the kitchen, took the dentures and left a penny in the cup!  The next morning when her mom went to retrieve her teeth they were gone!  Her mom immediately called out, "Doris!  Bring me my teeth!"  She knew who took them!  Doris insisted that the tooth fairy had paid a visit.  After some coaxing Doris finally handed the dentures over.

Doris has a 48-year-old mentally retarded son named Mike.  He doesn't have teeth, he does not speak in complete sentences and blames everything on his dad.  Mike has to wear a diaper to bed and each morning when his mom bathes him she asks him why he wet his bed.  His response is always, "it was dad!"  And if she asks him how he slept he gives one of two responses, "like a porpoise" or "like a big rock."

Mike attends a daily respite program.  When he returns home Doris will ask him how his day was.  He responds that it was good.  She then asks him what he did that day.  Because Mike does not speak in complete sentences he says "eat my friends."  Meaning he ate lunch with his friends, of course.  Because Doris can't pass up on an opportunity to tease, she asks how they tasted!

Now that you know that Doris is a big tease, let me explain her nickname.  A few years ago Doris was 28 pounds heavier.  She was struggling with high blood pressure and the doctor explained that she was on the low end of being obese.  After her visit with the doctor she went home and called her daughter to report the news.  Mike was listening in and not being familiar with the word "obese" heard this instead, "the doctor said I'm an old beast."  Haha!  Sweet Mike kindly said to his mom, "didn't know you an old beast!"

I jokingly asked her if she was Sister Beast.  Being Doris, she loved it!  When we entered the session and kindly pointed out Brother Beast I had to chuckle.  And my heart smiled when later in the session she lovingly looked over at him and waved with her pinky.  She is the cutest!

I've learned to love her for so many reasons.  Not only is she always there, very fun and a kind person, but think of what it takes to care for her son.  She routinely cares for him, even at her ago.  And she attends THREE endowment sessions every week!  I hope that I can have the same fun and positive outlook on life as Doris.

Getting More from Your Temple Experience

While sitting in the temple yesterday morning a thought came to my mind that I needed to write about getting more out of time spent in the temple.  I am aware that there are people who would do a way better job at this, but I have learned a lot of over the years and have found things that have helped me enjoy my experiences more.  I hope there is a small take away in this for you.

I think the most important thing you can do to enjoy the temple more is to go often!  Set a goal to go once a week, once a month, twice a month, whatever!  Just get yourself there!  Set a goal and stick to it.

Even better, have a set day and time you go.  I block out my Thursday mornings each week so I can attend the 9:30 session.  I don't schedule appointments or commit to anything during that time because it's set in stone.  If you don't schedule it in and you just anticipate going sometime during the week it will be much harder to get yourself there.  My little sister, Annie, shared a great story of why it makes a difference to attend the temple regularly.

Another advantage of this is that you get to know the workers and other patrons who regularly attend the same session.  I have made friends with two grandmas who are always there are the same time.  We seem to always land on the front row together and over time we have created a special friendship.  They are so dear to me!

I have learned that it helps me feel more peaceful and ready for the session when I arrive early and have a little time to enjoy the quiet of the temple.  I'm fortunate right now because I am able to drop Colton off at school and head to the temple, giving me 45 minutes before the session starts.  I have learned to cherish that time!  I've been late and felt rushed many times before and I can truly say that I don't feel settled and prepared quite like I do when I start the session feeling calm and peaceful.

When I was in high school and attending seminary, the temple came up in a lesson one day.  My seminary teacher mentioned that many people don't attend the temple often because it is the exact same thing every single time and they get bored.  I feel like one remedy for this is to take a question every time you attend- big or small.  I've tried to teach Addie this principle too.  Don't miss a chance to be taught in the House of the Lord!  He is waiting to teach you, you just need to ask!

Along the same lines, ask Him to teach you something new each time you go.  Yes, the process is exactly the same, but the opportunities to learn something new are endless!  Just yesterday I learned something I have not caught onto before.  He wants you to learn while you are in His house, so ask and He will teach you!  It may not always be something big or life changing, but it may be a tender little lesson meant just for you.

One way to prepare yourself to learn is to pray before you go.  Begin praying about your visit and your desire to learn several days in advance, not just the day of.  Pray about the question you will be taking with you.  Pray that you will learn something new.  Pray for comfort.  Pray for anything you need!  This will help you prepare mentally and spiritually as you will be thinking about things ahead of time.

It's such a special experience when you are able to take the name of someone you have discovered through genealogy.  Some of the sweetest experiences I have had in the House of the Lord have been because of the name I held in my hand.  It's always rewarding to pray to feel if they have accepted the work, then have the confirmation that they do.  Nothing is sweeter, so take a name!

There are so many beautiful things about the temple ceremony.  I have found that when I intently look for something specific during the session, that thing will stand out to me throughout the whole ceremony.  I often find myself looking for ways He shows His kindness.  It's easy to recognize that kindness when I am looking for it.  If my mind is wondering or if I am just "there," I miss so many chances to see how kind He really is.

My last bit of advice would be to move mountains to attend the temple.  The blessings, the knowledge, the peace, the comfort, the answers- they are waiting!  He is waiting! You will never regret making the time to go but you will always regret not making the time to go.

If you feel like you are missing something in your life, if you feel spiritually starved, if you need help you can't seem to find anywhere else, visit the temple!  If you feel like you cannot make the time to attend, schedule it in and make it happen!  You will never regret it.

I am so lucky to have a temple close by and that I am in a season of life that allows me to attend regularly.  My life is enhanced each time I visit.  And your's can be too.

Kitchen Favorites

Much of my day is spent in the kitchen.  It's the heart of our home and where much of the action takes place.  I'm sure that's the case for home families.  But because so much of my time is spent there, I have found that over time I have a few items or products that have become my favorites.

Have you ever used one of these scrapers?  I was given one by a friend once and fell in love!  It's perfect for scraping sticky messes up while mopping, crusty food from dishes, the edges of your pots and pans and so much more!

I know silicone baking mats are super popular right now so I guess I'm a little old-fashioned for loving parchment paper.  I love that once you're done baking you just crumble it up and throw it away! No dishes!  I love to line the bottom and edges of my pan with it before adding brownie batter.  When the brownies are done and have cooled down just lift them out and they'll be easy to cut!  And they won't stick!

Here's another favorite I was introduced to by a friend.  These liners make crockpot meals that much easier!  Once dinner is finished just lift the liner out, throw it away and give the crockpot bowl a quick wash.  The usually-hard-to-wash-stuff will be thrown out with the liner so you'll just have to wash any condensation that may have built up between the liner and the bowl.

The black mat from my Happiness Hacks post is back!  I don't have to repeat why I love it.  It's a definitely a favorite right now!  And that white shelf that sits on top of it is worth mentioning as well.  It gives you a little extra storage space under the sink.

I love these drawer organizers.  My kids have no excuse to put utensils in the wrong spot when everything has clearly it's place.

I use smaller ones in a cabinet to keep pill bottles, bandaids and loose pill packages stored neatly.

Because I washed dishes by hand for so many years I would not settle for mediocre dish soap.  The one and only soap I used and still use to this day is Dawn- the original blue stuff.  No fancy smells or colors.  Nothing cuts grease and gets the job done like Dawn does!

I'm cheating a little bit here because I don't actually own a Brown Sugar Bear, but I am going to buy one soon!  My friend had one sitting on her counter the other day and explained its purpose to me.  Just toss it in your brown sugar container and it will keep it moist!  Um, yes!

Ten Quick Ways to Boost Your Day

I often feel like I am running on a hamster wheel; I'm running as fast as I can but never getting anywhere!  I really don't think that the Lord intended for us to feel that way.  Life is worth enjoying!  Yes, there is a lot of work that has to happen to keep things moving, but it's up to us to keep life exciting.  Here are a few things I do when I feel like I'm running on that hamster wheel.

1.  Start your day off right!  Start it off with exercise.  Get your mind working and wake up!  Then pray and read your scriptures.  This triple combination is a surefire way to feel productive before the sun even comes up.

2.  Leave the house.  If you're feeling a little too much routine happening and not enough enjoyment- leave!  Leave the house and go somewhere.  Go for a drive, go to the store, take your kids to get a treat, just get away!  I remember my sister-in-law telling me that when the house is messy and she just can't deal with it that she leaves.  She escapes her duties for a bit, gives her self a short change of scenery, recharges her battery then heads home.  Once she is home she feels ready to tackle the rest of the day.

3.  Communicate with someone.  Reach out to an old friend, call a cousin, write a note to your grandma, send a text to someone you haven't talked to in a while (I literally just did this!!), the possibilities are endless.  I FaceTime my mom several times a week.  We visit about our day and laugh together for a few minutes and it's just the medicine to lift my day and give me a little boost.

4.  Watch a YouTube video or Netflix show.  This is something I love to do while I do housework.  During Christmastime, I watch Hallmark Christmas movies on YouTube.  They're super cheesy and always have the same storyline, but they are clean and for the most part, keep my interest.  I also watch shows like The Andy Griffith Show on Netflix while I work.  The important thing is to not choose something suspenseful or that requires you to keep your eyes on the screen.  You want to watch something that you can walk away from for a moment and not feel like you're lost.

5.  Go visit someone.  My sister and I do this from time to time.  We'll call each other up and say that the kids are fighting and need a change of scenery or that we need a little "sister time."  Spending a few minutes in someone else's home and watching them move through the day often gives you the motivation to go home and try again.

6.  Get ready.  Make sure you always get dressed, apply your makeup and do your hair.  Nothing slows me down like wearing pajamas and feeling sloppy.  I do feel it's easier to tackle household work before I shower and get ready for the day, but don't stay that way!  Nothing makes you want to hide out more than not looking presentable.

7.  Go somewhere with a friend.  I'm sort of a homebody and I don't really put myself out there.  But there have been times when I have agreed to go to lunch with a friend or invite a friend to meet me at the park so our kids can play and you know what?  It's always enjoyable!  Chatting with a friend is a great way to recharge.  If you're interested in making new friends listen to this podcast!

8.  Caffeine.  Not everyone will agree with me on this, but I know my Mom will!  When I am feeling sluggish or unmotivated I know it's time for a little pick me up.  My mom introduced me to Crystal Light Energy drink mixes and it's been great!  We often laugh about the things we can accomplish because of Crystal Light!  It takes me quite a while to finish 16 ounces so I have an energy boost that lasts me a few hours.

9.  Changing something up.  Move your furniture around, switch your decorations around, change your pictures out- do something (very!) simple to change your scenery.  This is not the time for big projects!  Just give yourself a little something different and pleasant to look at.

10.  Pray.  Last, but certainly not least, if you are really in a slump then pray.  Ask Heavenly Father to help you overcome your feelings and give you an opportunity to feel boosted.  He wants you to be happy!  If you ask, He will provide.

Podcasts worth listening to

Podcasts are huge right now!  Do people even listen to talk radio anymore?  Since I am always on the hunt for something uplighting and interesting to listen to I want to share a few of my current favorite podcasts.

I've waxed poetic about Happier with Gretchen Rubin.  Her sister and co-host, Elizabeth, reminds me of myself.  She doesn't want to overcommit herself or take on too much.  I love her realistic point of view on life.

I recently stumbled upon Young House Love Has a Podcast.  It's a new favorite!  It's easy to listen to and John and Sherry offer fun and realistic solutions for everything from decorating to what to have available for house guests to date night ideas.

The Simple Show gives a lot of food for thought.  It's made me really think about the things I say yes and no to in my life.  Tsh and a variety of co-hosts offer simple ideas to make life easier.  Today I listened to their podcast on road tripping and got some great ideas!  I will definitely be downloading the Roadtrip America app next time we take a trip!

I definitely don't have an entrepreneurial bone in my body but I do like listening to stories about those who do.  How I Built This is great because Guy Raz, the host, interviews the person behind big companies, companies you don't really think have a "story."  One of my favorite episodes is with Herb Kelleher, the founder of Southwest Airlines.  It's such a huge company that you don't naturally think about its built-from-the-ground-up story.

I would never claim to be a great writer.  I type fast and often sloppy.  But, I am a word nerd.  The Grammar Girl podcast is a goldmine of information about proper punctaion usage, spelling, grammer, etc.  Did you know that America is the only country that says "Legos" instead of "Lego"?  Just a little Grammar Girl nugget.

I kind of hesitate to share The Lazy Genius podcast because I haven't listened to very many episodes, but so far what I have heard deserves two thumbs up!  It seems like Kendra (an occasional co-host on The Simple Show) gets "it".  She knows that life is busy and that people will often take the path of least resistance.  She practically leads the way!  And I am happy to follow.

My Beehives

L to R: Nakai, Trinity, Rylie, Kailie, me, Lori, Brylee, Rilee, Addie, Stephanie and Serena.

Before I was called to work with the Beehives I was serving as an Activity Days leader.  Things were going well, I was happy with my partner and I loved the flexibility.  One day out of the blue, I was consumed with thoughts of mutual activity ideas and concern for the Beehives, girls I knew well because I had had them in Activity Days.  I thought it was odd but was then overcome with the feeling that I would be their next leader.  It came as no surprise when Jared approached me a few days later and asked what I thought about serving in Young Women.  Logistically it wouldn't be easy for our family but I knew it was where I needed to be.  And boy, how I have loved it!

In the past year, I have seen a few of the girls move into Mia Maids and have also welcomed a few new ones into Beehives, including Addie.  I never thought a group of 12 and 13-year-old girls could have such a big piece of my heart!  The friendships I have made with the girls have been so rewarding.  One of them recently came to me with a serious life problem and poured her heart out to me.  As good of a relationship I feel we have already had, I don't think she would have come to me if we had not strengthened that through Young Women.

We've had so many opportunities to bond, it's been incredible.  No matter how their lives turn out I hope they will know that Sister Hatch loves them and will always be there- a constant in their lives they can always return to.

Serena brought her phone to mutual one evening just so she could take a picture with me.

Me, Rylie, Trinity, and Serena.   

These cute sisters deserve a post all their own.  One afternoon they surprised me with this candygram.  I don't know why they show me so much love but I am thankful they do!  They randomly show up at my house for a visit and it's always so pleasant.  The other night they showed up for a visit.  Serena mentioned that she was wearing slippers because of an ingrown toenail.  It was long before Jared was down at her foot digging out one of the biggest and worst ingrown toenails we have ever seen!  I'm not sure if Jared liked me giving him the job, but we do tease him for being good at removing ingrown toenails.  And Serena has been happy and pain-free ever since!