Cleanliness is next to Godliness?

So it's 10:32 p.m., past my bedtime, but I was just up with the "Squawker", aka Ty. His sleeping habits leave quite a lot to be desired some days. Anyway, I've been thinking about some things the past 2 days, and it came to me to write them here. I haven't been in the habit of blogging for quite some time, so it slipped my mind that I could. This is just a blog about my life and thoughts... no pictures. So some of you can stop reading now. Sometimes blogs with no pics are no fun, I know!

Do you ever not want to clean your kitchen? Do you ever not want to pick your clothes up off the floor? Do you ever not want to do laundry, and fold the incessant amount of little tiny outfits? I'm sure most of you answered, well DUH! I struggle with these feelings a lot. I have surprised myself as a wife and a mother. I am a better housekeeper than I thought I would be. However I am surrounded by women who have immaculate homes and seem to love to clean... constantly! These women are not just my friends, but my mother in law, and sister in law too. Which gives me quite a bit of anxiety when they come over. There have been a couple of surprise visits when my house was well... messy. I don't think dirty and gross messy, just cluttered and non dusted. The whole time they are here, I'm thinking: "What are they thinking? Are they grossed out? Do they think the house is like this all the time? I wish I would have just vacuumed this area before they came, Is that a fish cracker in the couch?" It sounds little dramatic I know, but honestly this is how I feel.

Then comes the rebellion: "I'm not cleaning today! I refuse to do the dishes today. I cleaned all day yesterday, why do I have to vacuum today too!"
I don't like feeling like I HAVE to do anything. It's always been a thing with me.

So here's me, trying to clean all the time, hating every single minute of it, and wondering if it's as clean as "so and so's" house, and if it's ever going to be good enough.

So yesterday at in church there were quite a few talks about Temples and homes. The people were saying how for many, many reasons these two should be interchangable. They gave some examples and brought up that your home should be clean and tidy, a place where the spirit could dwell comfortably. Well here comes the guilt. I thought to myself, "I can't catch a brake, I'm never going to be good enough."

Thank goodness for Relief Society. The lesson was on Mothers and Daughters. The teacher had tweaked it just a bit, as not everyone is a biological mother. As I sat in there listening to the other women and remembering the women other than my mother who had played a "mothering" part in my life, I felt uplifted. The teacher brought up nurturing children, and that this was not automatic for all women. And then it happened....... A beautiful, smartly dressed, gray haired woman rose her hand and said some words that I have been desperately needing. She said that nurturing our children was so much more than loving them. It was cleaning for them, cooking their food, washing their clothes, doing their dishes, and by doing all this...you are nurturing, loving and serving them, but more importantly, you are serving the Lord.
Really... I had never, ever, once thought about it like that. All those mundane tasks that I
did reluctantly and begrudgingly, are more than what the seem. It was such an eye opening moment for me. All you mothers out there know of the crazy, maddening love we have for our children. Maybe if you can think about the service you are giving to your children and your God, some of those days will be easier.

I know it sounds silly, but even as I write this, I'm crying, because I believe the Lord spoke to me through that woman. Today was so different. Everything seemed a little brighter. The dishes weren't as bad, neither was the laundry. I'm not saying that from now on cleaning is going to be the greatest thing since sliced bread, I'm just saying that maybe I can think differently about it, and know that 1 out of the 100 things I should have done right today... I did.

April - June

April

Macie is involved in the "Special Needs Mutual" here. (A quick back story). Macie has several peer aides that help her in school. They take her to the 'normal' classes, and help her do the activities. One of these aides took a special liking to Macie. Her name is Dylan, and she is a sweetheart. Dylan's mom called me and told me about the mutual. She began going with Dylan (who was helping) and has loved it! Since she has done many things with Dylan and her family. They love Macie, and Macie loves them too!

The mutual puts on a play every year at the Regional Center in Bountiful. What a beautiful, funny, and touching play it was this year. Macie had a wonderful time!






Here is Macie with her cousin Brandon. He made a special trip by himself to see the play. Macie adores him!


Easter

We had a great time at the annual party at aunt Judy's. The kids had a great egg hunt, and Todd found the golden egg!




The kids tied messages on balloons and sent them up to Sage...

June

Father's Day

We spent the evening at Grandpa De's house. Everyone came and brought different types of pie. YUM! Before I knew it the kids had put a baseball game together. Chris, Tyler, Todd, Jodi and Sheri were playing with all the kids. It reminded me so much of the days when I was little playing baseball at Grandpa's. Dad, grandpa, and uncle Bob would play and we loved it! It sounds silly to have such fond memories of something so random, but I do. I remember what positions everyone played, and the plastic yellow bat. It just goes to show you that you never know which memories your kids are going to hold onto, so make the most of your time together.

One of the things I love most about Todd is how he gets involved with my family. Kelsey came and asked if he would play ball, and he didn't even hesitate. He got so into the game, I was laughing my head off. Grandpa said he was the life of the party! I love that man.

Grandpa De reading with Gabby.

Ty sharing his first popsicle with Grandma

Grandma sneaking a moochie!


Ty's Blessing (in April)

We had a wonderful day. Todd's parents and brother Chris and his family were able to come. We had aunts and uncles and cousins! What a blessing to be closer to both sides of our family now. Ty looked adorable!

Grandma Sally with the girls!

June again... Sorry things got messed up, and I didn't have the energy to move everything around!

This is my friend and old roommate Neita. We were roommates at Rick's College in Idaho. We were randomly put together the first year, but chose to stay together for the next. I made some good friends there, but Neita is the only one that I stay in contact with now. I knew her and Nate (her husband) at Rick's, and honestly they haven't changed much. They are a great couple with six beautiful and smart children! I got to see them for about an hour on their way to Zions. I wish we lived closer. She was a great example to me then and still is now.

Aren't they adorable!

Grandpa De's 90th Birthday Party!

We did a golf theme for the party, and I think it turned out great! We had loads of great food, the tables looked darling, and it was a beautiful day!

Uncle Bob with Ty

10 Months Is Long Enough (Part 1)

So much has happened in 10 months! Most of them wonderful, so I want to give you a quick synopsis of those events.

September 2009-

We moved to Bountiful, Utah

I got T-Boned by a truck going about 50 mph in an intersection. He pushed me about 100 feet, and totalled our Expedition. I had to be cut out of the car and taken to the hospital. Other than scrapes and bruises, I was fine.

October

Finding pumpkins and riding ponies.

Gabby's 2nd Birthday Party. I made a sad attempt at a castle cake. Hopefully she won't remember that.

We got her a set of table and chairs. It was darling! My mom got her a tea set. She quickly sat down and got to business!

Halloween

Here is our own Snow White and crazy monster! I had found the most fabulous costume for Gabby. It was a chicken costume, (because we call her chicken). I was so excited! Well from about week 3 in our new house I began searching for the costume..... As you can see I didn't find it. I believe I found it in Dec. in Macie's room, under her bed. Not sure how that happened........

After trick or treating, we all went up to Aunt Judy's. Here are all the crazy grandkids, and a couple extras...

Here are the four 2 year olds. We tried for 10 minutes to get them to sit down and smile. This was the best we could get. Sage is holding her head, because Carson just slapped her. She was such a good sport, didn't even cry. It was a fun night!

November

We spent Thanksgiving in St. George with Todd's parents. It was a nice day, very relaxed. The next morning, Sal and I ventured out to shop for the deals. We only got half of what we wanted. Apparently 4:00 a.m. was early enough. We had fun though! Sorry no photos!

December

We went with Todd's parents to see the lights at Temple Square. Living in Utah I had been many, many times and I think took it for granted. I missed going there while we lived in California. They were still beautiful, but it was soooooooooo cold!

Family Christmas Party

Our family, like most, has a Christmas party every year. Lots of years in the past Santa has visited the kids with presents. As you know our Santa left us 3 years ago. Earlier my mom had asked Todd if he would be interested. He was a little hesitant, but said he would try. I know this sounds kind of funny, but the whole "Santa thing" in our family is kinda sacred. My dad just cared so much about it, and truly loved talking to the kids. Todd is the only one I would let wear the suit. It's just too special for anyone else. I went in the room to help him get ready. Wow, that was kinda weird. I'd helped my dad with his hair and belt before, and now here was my husband taking over "the family business" if you will. He needed a bit more padding though. I felt proud and happy that he was trying it out. He was nervous. Downstairs we heard bells ringing. Here he came bounding in with a Ho, Ho, Ho, and Merry Christmas. He sat down and the kids beamed. He did so great! He talked with them, asked them questions, and even called up Grandpa! Dad would have been proud, I know I was.

Christmas

For some reason I only have 1 shot of Christmas! Macie is checking out her stocking, and Gabby is busying strolling with her baby! Mom spent the night, and it was a great holiday.

January 2010

Our newest bundle of joy came early January 7th at 5:00 a.m. He came almost a full month early. I was not complaining! I had already spent Dec. 31, in the hospital. They got my contractions stopped and sent me home. It was a much slower process than Gabby, but in the end, 1 push and he was out! Ty Gordon Johnson came in to this world pink and beautiful!

March

We had a horrible event in our family this month. Tyler and Sarah's beautiful 2 year old daughter passed away. It was sudden and tragic. Nothing makes losing a child feel better. No words, no music, and no amount of silence. I've lost important, special, people in my life, but not a child. I hope I never have to go through that kind of pain. Our prayers were and still are with Sarah, Tyler and their family.

April through June coming soon!

Breaking Up is Hard to Do (Written 10/24/09)

We broke up.







With California.


It happened on Sept. 17.


We packed up and moved.


It wasn't you Cali, it was us.


It was us, tired of the 3-4 hour commute everyday.


It was us, hating all the traffic, even on Sundays.


It was us, ready to see our extended family more than twice a year.


It was us, wanting our little family to be all together more often than just the weekends.


It was us, not wanting to pay more for gas, groceries, houses, utilities, pretty much EVERYTHING!


BUT.......... It's ok, you'll find someone new to entice with your sunny days, your palm trees, your In-N-Out Burger, your beautiful ocean and lush green hills.


We just weren't meant to be.


I will miss a few wonderful reasons to live in California...


Carol- I will miss the example. Carol is one of the most organized, educated and spiritual moms I've ever met. She is always looking for better, smarter ways to teach her children.

Celia- I will miss the laughter. Celia taught me to not take life so seriously. Life is going to happen, so you might as well smile about it. Her sense of humor is unique, hard to find in a good LDS lady. Thanks for listening, for your advice on parenting, teaching me about blogging and for sharing in laughter regarding things that sometimes we shouldn't have laughed about. Those were good times. I wish we would have had more time together.

Denae-Funny, witty, strong, diligent, faithful, and has a fabulous sweet tooth! That is Denae to me. Always making me laugh, and understanding my complaints and worries. Denae throws a great party and is a wonderful and creative photographer. She is talented in so many areas, it borders on not being fair. She has a huge heart, and I will miss her kind friendship.

Hollie- My first friend in Brentwood. My neighbor, my confidant, my friend. Hollie taught me a lot about being a good woman. She gave me advice on being a wife and a mother. We had a special connection that happened quickly. She asked me questions regarding the gospel, and allowed me to open up and share information about something I love. She is a kind, caring woman whom I will miss! Thanks for all the impromptu visits and wonderful chats! Thanks for making me a better person.

Stephanie- "Be a duck, let the water roll off your back". I will never forget that phrase. I've said it to myself and others often since Steph first said it to me. Let things roll off your back, don't take things too personally or seriously. What great advice for me! Steph, I often felt you could read my thoughts. So many times a call or visit came from you when I really needed it. You gave your service to me many times and were a true friend. Thank you for loving me.


This post was written many months ago, but my thoughts haven't changed. I miss those women. I haven't found even 1 to replace them yet. Hopefully I will be lucky enough to have friends like them again. Love you!

Summer Catch Up

Hey there! I want to write about a few things that happened these past couple months. I was gone to Utah the entire month of July, and the whole month of June I was sick as a dog (or should I say a pregnant woman). Yes, for those of you who don't know I am with child! Yeah! Todd and I were very excited. After the first month though I got very sick. This was a new development because I didn't get sick with Gabby. I was throwing up daily, and couldn't keep much down. My poor family. I really wasn't a very good wife or mother during this time. Thank goodness Todd did what he could after his 14 hr days at work. He was a trooper. I did take some meds, but without much success. The day we left for Utah, I went to the doctor. He gave me some additional medicine, and I did much better. The meds made me a bit dizzy, but it was better than throwing up. By about 12 1/2 weeks, I felt much better, and I no longer need the drugs! Yeah!

Anyway, I wanted to post some pics from Utah. We had a great time visiting with my mom. Macie got to spend 2 weeks with her Grandma and Grandpa, and she loved it!



My family loves the 4th of July. It's right up there with Christmas for me. I haven't got to spend it with my "extended" family in 4 years, so this was such a treat! The tradition is we go to the Kaysville parade, then swim at my cousins' home, then head up to Grandpa's for a BBQ and fireworks on the lawn! It was a great day!


4TH OF JULY



Grandpa Palmer is last guy on this truck. They always have him ride with the war veterans.








After the regular parade, there is a WATER parade! All the kids line up at the curb, and the parents run. There is some serious water being shot from those hoses! Below, Tyler is running for cover, and Macie is saying "bring it on!"




Macie...or drowned rat?




Todd and Macie playing lawn games.




Carson ready for his cupcake!








MACIE AND THE HORSE

My mom arranged for Macie to take a riding lesson from this fabulous place called Courage Reins. They provide riding lessons for disabled people. They usually do not allow "1 time" rides, but they agreed to let Macie do it. I was a little apprehensive because sometimes Macie is very stubborn and if she doesn't want to do something, you can't make her do it. I was really hoping she wouldn't be too nervous, and get on the horse.

They started by having her brush the horse.




Then they had her clean out his shoes. I didn't think she would do that, but she did.
They then had her lead the horse into the arena, and stand up on the platform. Here it was... the moment of truth, was she going to get on...........well before I even could worry about it she was on the horse!!



They had her throw balls in the hoops, match up colored stars on the walls, and learn to lean over and grab things from the barrels. It was much more than just riding the horse! She rode that horse for over 45 minutes! She did so great! And to say she had a good time would be an under statement!



Her teachers had a great time with her, and hope we can come back again! Way to go Macie!


Sorry this is turning out much longer than I anticipated........


GABBY'S FIRST HAIRCUT

Gabby's first haircut! We took her to a place called Cookie Cutters in Bountiful. It is a darling place for little kids. I don't really think she cared about the pink car. She basically wanted out!



Trying to be brave....


Doesn't like the blow dryer


"I hate this car, but I can see now!"



PALMER REUNION

Gabby's first Palmer reunion! She loved hanging with Grandpa De, Judy, Bob, and Sue!






GRANDPA DE'S 89TH BIRTHDAY!

We had a nice adult get together to celebrate Grandpa!



Grandpa Dan came to visit us for a couple of hours from St. George. It was great to talk with him and David. Gabby loves her Grandpa!



RANDOM CUTENESS!

Gabby spent a lot of time in Grandma's toy drawer!


Gabby and Jenner loved Judy's little chairs. Those two are so cute. I wish they got to spend
more time together!




Thanks mom for putting up with us for a month! We tried not to be as messy this time. Thanks for the beds, the meals, and fun, but mostly the love. No place is better than your mom's house.