Travels and such

Another month has slipped by and I'm just getting back to this blog. I guess summer is just too busy to keep up with blogging very well.

I am grateful for the many things I have to do. It's nice to keep busy. It's also nice to be able to travel to see friends and family. I'm grateful Lil and I had a good trip to Utah and back. I'm very grateful I was able to see my good friend from Alaska. I'm also grateful I was able to spend some time with my great aunt.

I'm grateful Lil has found a job and will be staying with us. It's been so nice to have her here. I love to have my family close by. I know it's a relief to her to have found a good job, too.

Blessings

It's been an awfully long time since I've gotten on here to post. Mostly because I haven't had the time for blogging that I once seemed to have. But I wanted to take a quick minute to post this, because I've been thinking about it constantly and am just feeling overwhelmed with gratitude right now. As you all know, Spencer and I chose to move to Idaho last year for reasons we weren't necessarily sure of. He had a good job there and we both hated to see him leave, but for some reason, we felt we needed to. We took a $10,000 pay cut...that's huge. But since we've been here, we've seen little reminders that we did the right thing. First off, he got a job working in hydropower, which now is the best field to be in as an engineer considering land development has come to a hault and the government is all about alternate sources of energy. Second, a few months after making the move here, his old job had do lay offs. At first it was just a few, but as the year progressed and things got worse, he had more and more old co-workers finding themselves without an income and needing a new place of employment. And now, a co-worker of his that was the same level as Spencer, just told him that he's down to 13 hour work weeks. 13 hours!! I can't imagine how any of them can survive on that! And there aren't many places hiring either, so he does not have any prospects or second jobs. Spencer is one of two at his workplace now that is approved to get overtime, and he gets it quite often. He's always busy and I just am so grateful to my Heavenly Father for watching out for us. He has blessed us with a beautiful home, living near family, with a good job that is able to provide for us and now that $10,000 pay cut has turned into a pay raise, considering where we could have been had we stayed there. I'm just so blessed!

It's Been a Long Time

For a myriad of reasons, some of which were out of my control, I've had a hard time getting to the computer lately. I've still been grateful for things, I just haven't had time to write them all down. Here are a few.

I'm grateful for my grandpa. He passed away last week, which was very hard on all of us he left behind. But I'm grateful he was able to live for ninety-six years. I'm grateful I got to see him just two months ago. I'm grateful for all the wonderful memories I have of him.

I'm grateful for all the family who came to Grandpa's funeral. I'm grateful I was able to visit with cousins whom I haven't seen in years. I'm grateful for the wonderful support system a family makes. I'm grateful I was able to spend a little time with my parents and all of my siblings and their families (we did miss Derek, he was the only one who couldn't make it).

I'm grateful we were able to travel without any problems. I'm grateful Lil rode back with us and entertained the girls so well. I'm grateful we were able to enjoy the beauties of Yellowstone.

I'm grateful Lil is here. She is so helpful and I love having her around. I love that she enjoys spending time with my children. I greatly appreciate when she plays with the girls so I can get something done. I love just being able to talk to her, in person.

I need to stop, but I am grateful for so many things right now.

Organization

I am not an organized person. I really struggle with keeping things neat. So I am grateful for things that force organization on me. With Lil here I have had to empty out the spare bedroom. I don't have enough space to just move things, so I've had to organize. It isn't fun, but I do love the results. It is so much easier to find what I want and to know what I have.

Good Travels

I am grateful to be home. I'm grateful we were able to travel without any problems. I'm grateful we were able to visit family and enjoy our time with them.

I'm grateful Lil came back with us.

Prayers

I'm grateful for opportunities to serve. I'm grateful the autistic boy I babysat for a couple of hours this afternoon was having a very good day. I'm grateful the whole afternoon went much, much better than I expected.

I'm grateful for answers to prayers. Especially those little things that seem like they really shouldn't matter, but for some reason they do. I'm grateful that Heavenly Father understands and even looks after the little things.

Nap

I am grateful things went smoothly this morning so I was able to get myself and the girls to church on time without Ray being here to help.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls outside this afternoon so I was able to sneak in a nap.

Ray

I am grateful Ray was here most of the day. I'm very grateful he took the girls outside so I could actually accomplish something.

I'm grateful I have a large house with lots of storage space. I've been trying to organize things, which I'm not very good at, so it's nice to have lots of space to work with.

Playdate

I'm grateful for a fun afternoon with friends. The girls had a good time. They're really getting better at playing with other kids. I enjoyed having an adult to talk to.

I'm grateful the girls were worn out enough to go straight to sleep once they were in bed.

Participation

In my Primary class is one little boy who, up to this point, has never participated in any activity we do during class. He won't answer questions, he won't even color a picture. However, today he actually volunteered to participate in a little activity and then asked if he could say the prayer. I was amazed and very grateful that he has decided to participate.

I'm extremely grateful the girls took a very long nap, but not surprised since they decided to get up at 6:30 this morning.

Yard Sales

I'm grateful for cheap clothes at yard sales. I don't really enjoy rifling through other people's junk, but the $1 or less kid's clothes make it worth it.

Curiosity

I'm grateful my girls are curious and inquisitive. I don't always appreciate where their curiosity takes them, but I am glad they want to discover the world.

I'm grateful Ray was around to help run errands this evening.

Staying Home

I'm grateful for the very sweet things the girls do. This morning C saw me crying and came over to give me a hug. She was so concerned. She even wiped the tears off my cheek. It was so sweet. It made me realize that I'd made the right decision in turning down a job to stay home with my girls. I'm so grateful I have that as an option. I'm so grateful Ray works hard so I can stay home and raise the girls the way we want them to be raised.

Sisters

I'm very grateful I have sisters to talk to when I have things on my mind. I don't know what I would do without the option of calling them any time I need to talk.

I'm grateful Ray is supportive of what I want to do.

I'm grateful the girls slept fairly well in their new bed.

Transitions

Trying to make the transition from crib to bed for the girls had an interesting beginning. We just started today. I'm grateful the girls did finally take a nap -- about three hours after I originally tried to lay them down. I'm grateful they can't yet open doors so I was able to contain them in their room. I'm very grateful it made for a happier R when she woke up. I'm certain she likes being able to get up on her own much better than having to wait for me to come get her.

A normal day

I'm grateful it didn't rain until after I ran my errands today.

I'm grateful I was able to meet the sister on my visiting teaching list whom I had not met yet.

I'm grateful Ray was around all evening.

Early to bed...

I'm grateful the girls did so well in church. R didn't even cry when she went to nursery today. She wasn't ready to leave when I got there to pick her up, either.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls outside for a good chunk of the afternoon.

I'm grateful the girls went to bed early, so I can, too.

Stuff

I'm grateful I was able to get so much done today. As I was writing in my journal this evening I was quite amazed at how much I actually accomplished. I didn't feel like I did that much, I guess I was just going steady all day.

I'm grateful R was outside when she managed to get her diaper off and then pee (pants, shoes, and socks still on).

I'm grateful Ray gave the girls a bath so I could finish up the stuff I was working on.

My girls

I'm grateful my girls are learning to talk. It's so nice to be able to understand a few things they say. It's also just fun to see what they pick up first. I love to help my children learn. I love being able to spend most of my time with them. I love that I am the one who sees and hears all their firsts.

I'm grateful the girls already love music. C was wandering around all evening singing, "Happy and you know it" over and over. (Granted, most people would probably not be able to tell that was what she was saying, but I think you'd probably recognize the tune.)

I'm grateful my girls get along so well. I love to listen to them jabber and giggle together after we put them to bed.

A Nap

I'm not feeling very grateful right now. I'm really just grateful this day is over.

I am grateful I was able to sneak in a nap while the girls were sleeping. I think I needed one worse than they did.

I'm grateful I've gotten to know my neighbor across the street, I really enjoy talking to her.

I guess when I think hard enough, there are things to be grateful for.

Pieces coming together

Moving is rather stressful. I'm grateful that little things are getting done here and there. I'm starting to feel like I might actually be ready by next week. I'm glad that my kids' doctor was able to reschedule their appointments, even if it is now down to the last minute. I'm so glad that my little bro and sis will be traveling across the country with me. I'm glad that I was able to get a hotel. I'm very, very glad that my sis is here. I'm glad that my kids are done with school. I really do have a lot to be grateful for amidst my chaos and stress.

The usual

I'm grateful for beautiful weather, a nice walk to the park, and good friends for a play date. I'm grateful my girls love to be outside.

I'm grateful the girls took a long nap so I was able to finish my really good book.

I'm grateful Ray did not seem to notice that I didn't accomplish anything today.

Good Books

I'm grateful for good books. I love a book that is hard to put down and I just started one today.

I'm grateful C seems to be over whatever sickness she had.

I'm grateful Ray helped take care of C and helped make dinner.

Church

I'm grateful we got to go to church today.

I'm grateful my house was mostly clean already, so I didn't have to do more than straighten up a bit before people came over.

I'm grateful it was a nice evening and we were able to take a family walk.

Being Social

I'm grateful Ray took the girls for most of the day. They love to follow him around and "help".

I'm grateful for a social evening with friends. It's nice to get out of the house and enjoy the beautiful weather.

I'm grateful the girls enjoy their bath time and go to bed so well.

Difficult Decisions

I'm grateful I get to make choices in my life. I get to decide how my life will go. I don't always appreciate this, it would be easier sometimes to just have life mapped out already and all I had to do was go along with it. But I wouldn't grow very much that way. I realize that, so I am grateful to be able to make decisions that affect everything in my life.

I'm grateful I have a supportive husband who lets me decide what is best for me.

I'm grateful for the gospel and the teachings of the prophets. It is so helpful to have a guide for what I should be doing.

Phone calls

I'm very grateful I have a phone. So many times it is the only way I get to have an actual conversation, with someone who can actually talk back. I love to talk to my family. I love to talk to my friends. It would be better in person, but since we aren't all close together, I grateful for my phone.

I am grateful Ray helps with the grocery shopping. It's much easier with two toddlers to have two adults along.

I'm grateful the girls get along so well. Although they should have been sleeping, I was enjoying listening to them giggle and play together in their crib. Silly girls.

Open Windows

I'm grateful for the perfect open-window weather. I love to let my house air out. I love all the smells of spring.

I'm grateful Ray let the girls run around with him this evening.

I'm grateful I've finally gotten back on a normal schedule (traveling always throws me off). It was nice to get dinner on the table at a good hour and the kids to bed on time.

One on one time

I am grateful for the warmer weather.

I am grateful I was able to have some one-on-one time with R while C napped. It doesn't happen very often so it was a lot of fun.

I'm grateful for good friends to visit with. I'm grateful Ray is willing and able to help our friends with their projects.

Garden

I am grateful we were able to get out and walk today. I'm very grateful that so many things are within walking distance. It is much easier and healthier for me to walk my errands instead of driving for them.

I'm grateful Ray has planted and is taking care of a vegetable garden for us.

I'm grateful the girls can be easily entertained. They played the piano while I was making dinner. It's not always the greatest music to listen to, but it kept them very happy.

Reverence

I am utterly amazed, and very grateful, that my Primary class was the most reverent in both Junior Primary and closing exercises. Especially since I had seven of them there today. Considering that they are five, going on six, and that they were quieter than even the eleven-year-olds, I was very happy with them. If you wonder what I mean by most reverent: they were chosen first to be dismissed both times because of their reverence, they were also regularly picked when those doing music and sharing time needed reverent children to help them.

I am grateful we were able to visit with more family today.

I'm grateful my children went to bed earlier than usual.

Family Togetherness

I'm grateful we were able to spend the afternoon together as a family. It's nice to have time for all of us to be together.

I'm grateful the girls were happy while we were out doing things.

I'm grateful Ray helped give the girls their bath.

Spring blooms

I'm grateful for spring. I love watching things bloom and turn green. I love the warm, but not too hot, weather. It is one of my favorite times of the year.

I'm grateful we were able to get out for a walk today. I'm grateful the very threatening clouds didn't actually drop rain on us. I'm grateful I was able to run all my errands by walking instead of driving.

I'm grateful for relatives that stop in and visit when they are in the area. It's not often anyone comes our way, so it's nice to have visitors.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls outside this evening so I could cook dinner in peace.

Clean House

I'm grateful that my children napped long enough for me to clean most of the house. I'm grateful the girls actually kept the house quite clean after they woke up.

I'm grateful for a very enjoyable evening with some friends. I'm grateful R warmed up very quickly and did much better than usual with new people.

Learning experiences

I am grateful for days when I don't have anywhere to go so I don't have any reason to fix the girls' hair.

I'm grateful that I was able to get quite a few things done and get the house mostly back in order.

I'm grateful the girls spent the evening helping Ray outside.

I'm grateful for learning experiences.

T-shirt weather

I'm grateful the weather is finally nice enough the girls don't need jackets to run around in the yard.

I'm grateful for good food, even though I ate too much of it. :-)

Home

I am so grateful to be home again and back to our normal lack of a schedule. While I do love to see other places and visit relatives, it is always nice to come home. It is so nice not to have anything extra that has to get done, no where to go, no worries about my children destroying something that belongs to someone else. It's just great to be home.

I'm extremely grateful that the girls slept in this morning, thus allowing me to sleep in also. I think we were all suffering from lack of sleep from all our travels. I'm also grateful that, despite sleeping in, the girls napped very well.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls out of the kitchen this evening when I was making dinner.

Experience

I am so grateful that this is not our first Army move. If we hadn't gone to Korea, we would have no idea what we should be doing. Who knows when we would have found out, since the Air Force is very much not helpful. I glad that I finally went with the feeling I've had for a while now, that we should contact Fort Sill and stop trying to go through Tinker. I'm also very grateful that we were able to schedule all of the appointments that we need, despite the very short notice. I feel that we have been very blessed.

I'm mostly grateful, that after my very stressful morning, Aitana, Michael and DJ played fabulously together, Naomi took a very long nap and we were able to go hang out at the library after a dinner of leftovers. I needed that kind of anti-stress.

My Grandparents

First of all I am grateful to be home, safe and sound. I'm grateful we found everything like we left it. I'm grateful I have no reason to get in the car again for several days. I'm grateful the car ran well and we didn't have any problems while we traveled. I'm grateful Ray did all the driving.

I'm grateful we were able to visit my grandparents. I don't know how many more opportunities I may have to see them. It was so good to be there and let them see the girls. I loved watching Grandpa as he fed M&Ms to the kids. He was so happy as they would run up to him and then away again. Grandma loves the little kids, too. She mostly just sat and watched them play. She can't hear much anymore, so she just watches.

Testimonies

I'm grateful for testimony meeting and the wonderful, uplifting testimonies that were shared.

I'm grateful the girls are doing well in nursery.

I'm grateful my grandpa is home from the hospital.

No More Drafts

I'm grateful Ray got the girls up and fed this morning so I had a few extra minutes.

I'm grateful Ray replaced our front door sill today. It was badly in need of repair (major draft issues) and the new one is much nicer.

I'm grateful the girls took a long enough nap that I was able to prepare a lesson.

Helpers

I'm grateful I was able to get most of my laundry done today.

I'm grateful my girls try so hard to be helpful. They regularly carry notes to Ray to inform him when dinner is ready. Just now I sent them with notes that read, "Please wash my face," and "Me, too." They took the notes right to Ray. I don't think they knew what they were asking for, though.

I'm grateful we were able to get out this evening and visit with friends, some of whom we may never see again. It's hard to see friends go, but I'm so grateful I was able to get to know them while they were here.

I'm grateful Ray helps so much with the girls.

Good friend

I'm grateful for a good friend who called when I really needed someone to talk to. I'm so grateful to have friends who understand what I'm going through.

I'm grateful Ray helped make dinner.

Talking to Dad

I'm grateful for simple means of entertaining my children.

I'm grateful I got to talk to my dad today. He's not usually around when I call so it's always nice to have a conversation with him.

I'm grateful that the girls love to spend time with Ray. I'm very grateful Ray loves to spend time with the girls.

My friends

I love my friends! One of them made me funnel cakes tonight. So, so good! I also greatly appreciate that she didn't say anything about the chaotic state of my house.

Funny girls

I'm grateful for the funny things my girls do. During breakfast this morning they were not sharing their cereal well. Finally I grabbed two bowls, divided the dry cereal (it had been on the table between them) and gave them each a bowl. They just looked at me like they didn't know what to do. I suddenly realized they expected spoons since they had bowls. So I gave them each a spoon. After one or two unsuccessful tries at using the spoons to eat the cereal, they each went happily to eating the cereal with one hand while holding a spoon in the other. I got a good laugh from watching them.

I'm grateful I was able to talk to several of my siblings today.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls outside this evening. They had been begging to go out all day so it really made them happy.

Six Months

I realized that we started this blog six months ago. I figure that's a pretty decent time to see if focusing on the things I'm grateful for is really helping me be happier. I've actually been thinking about it quite a bit lately. While I don't know if it's really helped me be a happier person, there are several things I have noticed:
1. I am more aware of the things around me. Trying to come up with things to be thankful for every day has given me a different perspective on stuff I usually take for granted. I realize how grateful I really am to have a house, a washer, a dishwasher, a furnace, etc. Things that I used to use without thought.
2. I am much more aware of gratitude. By this I mean when other people thank me. It means a lot more to me now than it used to. When my friend made me cookies and wrote a thank you note for watching her daughter, it really struck me. My neighbor insisted on helping pay for the gas Ray used in his four-wheeler while pushing her snow all winter, after she made gifts for the girls and mailed us a written thank you note. Even smaller things like someone saying thank you for holding a door stand out a lot more to me now.
3. I am more likely to express my thanks than I used to be. I've never been very good at this one. Since I started writing down all the things I'm grateful for, I've thought maybe I should let people know. I've been working especially hard on this when it comes to Ray. It's something that is hard for me to do, but I've been trying to tell him thank you for all the little things he does. It has helped me notice more things that he does, also.
4. My prayers have been filled with more gratitude.
5. I've started to look for something to be grateful for in situations that are less than ideal. I certainly can't control everything that happens around and to me, but I can look for the good.

I am very glad we started this blog. I'm grateful Jenn followed through on the inspiration as soon as the idea came up. I have every intention of continuing this path of gratitude, I do think I need the incentive to look for good things.

I'm grateful to all of you who occasionally participate and those of you who read. Whether you realize it or not, you're helping me stay on track. I probably wouldn't keep going if you weren't here, too. I hope you'll chime in more often, I love to read the things you're grateful for. Your posts and comments always help me think of other things I'm grateful for, too.

Successful Sharing Time

I'm grateful we made it to church a few minutes early. It's amazing how getting up a half hour earlier can make the whole morning go more smoothly.

I'm grateful sharing time went well. I was nervous, but it really turned out good.

I'm grateful Ray was around all day. I'm grateful he took the girls outside for most of the afternoon.

A Walk

I'm grateful it warmed up a little today. I'm grateful we were able to get out and take a walk.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls out for a bit this afternoon.

I'm grateful the girls love bath time and bed time. It makes things so much easier for me.

Melting Snow

I'm grateful the snow melted as fast as it fell today.

I'm grateful my girls are easily entertained.

I'm grateful Ray has found another project to keep himself busy.

I learned something new today: if you put forty or more posts on one blog in one day, they make you do a word verification to make sure some computer isn't posting on your blog.

Long nap

I'm grateful I had a friend to talk to while the girls and I waited an hour to meet Clifford, the big red dog.

I'm grateful it was warm enough, despite the wind, to take a walk this morning.

I'm grateful the girls took a long nap this afternoon. I'm grateful Ray ran errands so I didn't have to wake the girls from their nap.

Sunblock

I am grateful for sunblock. I should have put some on me sooner, but I'm pretty sure I had the girls well covered and they didn't get any burns.

I'm grateful it's warm enough to have to worry about sunblock. :-)

I'm very grateful the girls enjoy riding in the stroller. It's so nice to be able to take a good walk and have them happy the whole time.

Garden

I am grateful for another beautiful day. I'm grateful I have a fenced yard so the girls can play outside.

I'm grateful Ray is planting a garden for us.

I'm grateful I can fit in a little reading time now that the girls are big enough to entertain themselves.

I am thankful that few people read this blog (at least to my knowledge)

Because, I have to attend a formal event with Derek (or he has to go alone) on the 1st and I need to decide on a dress. I have purchased several and should really return some of them, so I need help. Give me your opinions on:

1. which dresses could be formal enough (I have no idea what the standard will be -- all of the soldiers will be in uniform, all of their dates will be young and, likely, wearing sleeveless and/or short, very revealing dresses. I don't want to look too incredibly old, but I fear I shall, no matter what I do...)

2. which dress(es) look the best on me. (I know it is very hard to tell in photos. Just note, I will do my hair and wear makeup that night. I will also wear heels -- I own black strappy sandals. Otherwise, shoes may be an issue. I will also wear hose, as much as I hate them....)

I will include my analysis with each photo, just so you know why I chose these as the finalists.I love this dress. First, I love red. Second, it's the smallest size I've worn, since before DJ was born. These are hardly good qualifiers, but the fact that I will wear it often, does make it very appealing to me. Besides, I will probably keep it, under any circumstances... One big disqualifier, besides its lack of formality, is that I would need shoes. I still have the white heels that I wore for my wedding, but they are outdated and rather worn. I also have white, casual sandals, but they would definitely be inappropriate.


This is by far the most comfortable of the dresses I found. It is knit. I love it, but two big bads: it's rather informal, despite its length (esp. since I just have t-shirts to wear with it) and it's probably the least flattering of them all.

I fell in love with this one, because it is so 50's-ish. I love the polka dots and ribbon and I adore the colors. It was also the only one that came completely modest without modifications from me. Downside: it is the most expensive of all of the dresses here. Upside: it is black -- I have shoes. Downside: it is actually too big through the bust (a lot) and was purchased at TJMaxx, so I can't just get a smaller size. Upside, because I would never remove the jacket (spaghetti straps underneath), I could tackily alter it and no one would ever know. Downside: I'm not sure it's really formal. Upside: it's fully lined, so I wouldn't need a slip and it drapes really nicely.

This is the first dress I found. It is probably the most formal. It's hard to tell in the picture, but it's beaded and sparkly. It's also a nice gauzy overlay with a black lining. Unfortunately, it is sleeveless. So, I found this black jacket to go with it. I do not love it, but I couldn't find anything else anywhere. I like the length on it, because I could still wear it to church. I'm not in love with the neckline or the way it looks from behind -- the seams don't all lay right.

This is one I'm definitely keeping. I got it on clearance, because it's missing a couple of buttons. I love that it's a plain color. I love it's cute little collar and the neckline. I also feel that it deemphasizes my pudgy stomach and I like that. I like the ribbon tied in the back better, but I tried the front and thought I'd get input on that.


These last two were just me playing around with various pieces of the outfits. Thought I'd share for your enjoyment...

Open Windows

I'm grateful my girls are healthy and developing well.

I'm grateful it feels like spring. I love the nice, warm weather. I love being able to take my girls outside without worrying about jackets and mittens. It's nice to open the windows and let the house air out.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls with him as he ran errands this evening. I'm grateful Ray helped me get dinner ready.

Many Things

I'm grateful there were many other children who were just as loud as or louder than mine at Stake Conference. Then I don't feel so bad about my children acting up. It's nice to not stand out in a crowd.

I'm grateful I was able to get to know my great aunt and uncle while I lived in Alaska. I'm sad that I will not be able to see Uncle Dan again in this life. I hope I will get another chance to visit Aunt June. I'm grateful for the gospel and the knowledge of eternal families. I'm so grateful for my testimony.

I'm grateful my dad was actually at home when I called him.

I'm grateful Ray spent all afternoon with the girls outside.

Visitors

I'm grateful I was able to get my house cleaned this morning.

I'm grateful for visitors. It's nice to have relatives come see us, even though we are a long ways out of the way.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls outside this evening. The girls were really tired, having not napped at all today, so they were not very pleasant to be around. I'm grateful Ray gave me a break from them.

My Ward

I'm grateful the girls took a long nap this afternoon. I really needed that. :-)

I'm grateful for my ward. We had a talent show this evening. It was so much fun. I was very impressed by all the talent and especially impressed by how many kids were involved. I'm very grateful for all the people who helped entertain my girls while Ray acted as stage hand. I'm grateful the girls behaved so well all evening.

Story Time

I'm grateful it didn't snow today. (It was predicted to snow.)

I'm grateful the girls and I were able to get out and go to story time. The girls had fun. There were lots of other kids for them to play with.

I'm grateful Ray ran errands for me on his way home from work.

Meeting people

I'm grateful the girls slept in. I love days when they sleep in. Sometimes it's because I get to sleep in, too, other times it's because I can get a few things done before they wake up. This morning I got a couple of things done, it was so nice.

I'm grateful for my crock pot. I really should use it more often, it makes dinner so much easier and more timely, in most cases.

I'm grateful for the opportunity to get to know a few more ward members. I was asked, along with several other sisters, to meet with the young women this evening to talk about dating experiences. It was a very enjoyable evening. I had not had the opportunity to talk to most of the sisters involved before and I really didn't know the young women. I love every opportunity I get to know the ward better. The more people I know, the more I feel like I belong here.

Play time

I'm grateful for an easy day where I was able to spend a lot of time playing with the girls.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls outside this evening.

I'm grateful Ray is able to fix things.

Learning new things

I am grateful the girls slept in a little this morning.

I am grateful it was another beautiful day. I'm grateful Ray wanted to take a walk this evening. It was so nice to get out.

I'm constantly amazed at how much my children are learning. I'm not sure I'm grateful for all of it, but I do love to watch them figure things out. This evening I found C sitting on a kitchen chair eating a cracker. I asked her how she got a cracker. She stood up on the chair, turned around, reached onto the counter where the crackers were and grabbed another one. She then gave the second cracker to R. I am grateful for how well the girls share and play together.

Nursery!!

I'm grateful the girls are old enough to go to nursery. I'm very, very grateful they enjoyed their first day. R did cry a little, but only until she was distracted by toys. C didn't even seem to notice we weren't there. I was so relieved at the end of church to hear that they had done so well.

I'm grateful it was a nice warm day. I'm grateful that Ray enjoys going for walks with us. I'm grateful Ray let the girls play outside with him for several hours.

I'm grateful R is a good eater.

Ray watching the girls

I'm grateful Ray got the girls up and fed them breakfast this morning so I was able to linger in bed a few minutes longer than usual.

I'm grateful the girls took a long nap so I had plenty of time to finish preparing a lesson.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls outside for quite a while this afternoon. I'm grateful Ray gave the girls a bath so I could get other things done. Ray really did spend a lot of time with the girls today and it was so nice for me.

Great Date

I'm grateful it was nice enough for the girls to play outside.

I'm grateful the girls took a long nap so I had time to get stuff done.

I'm grateful for a wonderful evening out with Ray. I'm grateful for a good babysitter. I'm grateful the girls were good for the babysitter. I'm grateful I had a little break.

Rain

I'm grateful it was raining instead of snowing today.

I'm grateful I was able to talk to Lil for a while.

I'm grateful the girls are getting so helpful. It's amazing how much they figure out by just watching what I do. I'm so glad they try so hard.

I'm grateful Ray is getting the girls ready for bed right now.

Ray

I am grateful for Ray. I'm grateful he remembered our anniversary, got me flowers and took care of dinner.

I'm grateful for a relatively productive day. I'm grateful it was nice weather so the girls and I could spend a little time outside.

I'm grateful the girls go to bed so well. It is so nice not to have a fight every night. They want to get in their pajamas and they want to get into bed.

Good Neighbors

I'm grateful for a nice day, a lovely walk to the park, and a wonderful play date. The girls had a lot of fun playing with their friend. I had a lot of fun talking to mine.

I'm grateful for my neighbor. She came over this morning to give us some gas money (for the four-wheeler, as thanks for Ray plowing the snow all winter) and some bibs she made for the girls. It was so sweet and once again, she reminded me of my grandma.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls out with him this evening.

Understanding

I'm grateful that my children seem to understand each other so well. When C was very upset this afternoon (at me because I wouldn't let her have more candy) R stepped in and handed C the toy R had been playing with. All of a sudden there were no more tears. It was like R knew exactly what C needed right then to distract her. I love that they seem to be able to do this for each other all the time.

I'm also grateful that my girls are starting to talk. It's still very hard to understand anything they say, but I'm starting to figure out a few things.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls for a walk this evening.

I'm grateful the snow is melting quickly. I'm also grateful we have a sump pump to keep the basement dry.

Conference

I'm grateful to be able to listen to General Conference, at home, on the internet. I love that it's so easy to listen to the prophet, that it is available all over the world.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls outside this evening.

I'm grateful for my dishwasher. When I was single dishes weren't a big deal. Now that I have a husband and kids, it's really, really nice to have a dishwasher.

Snowman

I'm grateful for the opportunity to listen to General Conference. I love to hear the prophet speak.

I'm grateful we were able to enjoy the snow that is being forced on us. It was warm enough to make a good snowman. The girls enjoyed being outside. It was good for all of us to get out.

I'm grateful Ray was around all day. It was fun to have him here to play with the girls.

Organization

I'm grateful my girls like to have me fix their hair now. R actually got upset when I told her she was done and it was C's turn.

I'm grateful the nice weather over the last few days melted the snow enough that I had no trouble getting my car out.

I'm grateful my attempt at organization is working and starting to pay off. I've been trying to increase my food storage without spending a fortune. So I've been paying close attention to what things cost, watching the grocery store fliers, buying on sale and using coupons. It takes a lot of work and I have to keep on top of it. But it does make a big difference.

I'm grateful Ray helps with the grocery shopping.

Examples

I am grateful the girls slept in this morning and I'm very, very grateful they let me take a short nap this afternoon. I really needed it and they played well and didn't get into anything. It was so nice.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls for a walk this evening. They were really wanting to get out and I was ready for a break.

I am always amazed when I notice that my girls have picked something up just by watching me. This evening when Cora was going to hand me something I was busy, so she just reached up and set it on the counter where she knows I put it. I'm grateful that so far they've only picked up good habits. I really am trying to teach them well. I'm realizing all the time just how important example is.

Laughing

I'm grateful for a nice enough day that the girls and I were able to take a walk. I'm grateful the snow is melting quickly.

I'm grateful for fun, harmless April Fools pranks that just make everyone laugh. Everyone needs a good laugh.

I'm grateful Ray dealt with our crying daughter for half and hour so I could get something else done.

Reading time

I'm grateful today warmed up, the sun came out, and the snow started to melt. It really was quite a nice day.

I'm grateful I can spend time playing silly games with my girls. I love to make them laugh.

I'm grateful my girls like it when I read to them. They love their books. It's fun to watch them "read" along with me.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls outside for a little while. They love to be outside and they love to be with Ray.

Thoughts on Snow

I'm grateful snow is pretty. I'm very ready to be done with winter, but I still enjoy how beautiful a layer of snow can make everything.

I'm grateful that despite the snow it still wasn't terribly cold. I was able to take the girls out for a little while. They weren't quite sure what to think of such deep snow.

I'm grateful Ray got his four-wheeler fixed so he could finish pushing the snow. I'm grateful the girls are so entertained watching Ray out the window as he pushes the snow.

I'm grateful that the snowstorm gave me a good reason to meet one of my neighbors. I started to shovel her walk and she came out and started from the opposite end (I don't think she wanted me to be shoveling for her). I've lived here for almost three years, seen her around, but never had an opportunity to introduce myself. I'm glad I finally got to talk to her. She reminds me a lot of my grandma.

A Lazy Day

I'm grateful Ray was around all day. I'm grateful he took the girls for a while. I'm grateful he pushed the snow.

I'm grateful for my house. I'm grateful I don't have anywhere to go for a few days.

I'm grateful for a nice, easy, rather lazy day. It's nice to have a break occasionally.

Lesson Prep

I'm grateful the weather was nice today so we were able to take a walk.

I'm grateful between nap time and Ray taking the girls I was able to finish preparing my lesson in peace.

I'm grateful the girls go to bed so well.

New Friends

I love to watch the funny things my girls do. I love how they will talk and talk at the phone when no one is on the other end, but if any sound comes out of the phone they stop talking. It's so fun to watch them figure things out.

I'm grateful the sun was out and the temperature went up a little today.

I'm grateful for new friends and having the opportunity to get to know more people.

I'm grateful Ray helped make dinner.

Teaching my girls

I'm grateful my girls try to help me. Mundane tasks take twice as long with their help, but it is fun to show them what to do and watch how excited they get when they help.

I'm grateful we were able to get out for a short walk today. It wasn't really warm enough, thus why it was a short walk, but it was still nice to get out of the house.

I'm grateful Ray pushed the snow for us.

Thank you, Tracy, for your comment. Knowing that other people read and appreciate this blog helps keep me going.

My Girls

I am grateful I am able to spend time with my girls. Some days it is really hard to spend all my time with two toddlers who can't talk to me yet. I miss having regular adult interaction and getting out of the house. But then I think of all the things I would miss if I wasn't here with my girls. I get to see all the silly things they do. I get to be the one who sees every first. I get to play with them and help them discover the world. I know how to make them laugh. I know them better than anyone else does. I'm the only one who knows what their cries mean. I can usually figure out what they want when no one else can. I'm so grateful I get to see them grow.

Piano stuff

I'm grateful it warmed up enough to start melting the snow.

I'm grateful Ray entertained the girls for the short time he was here this evening.

I'm grateful I'm not teaching piano lessons right now. In helping someone learn a piece I've been reminded how hard it is to teach someone else to play. I'm also grateful my mom was very strict about the piano and wouldn't let me quit or not practice. I've realized that parents make a big difference in how well students do.

No More Colds

I'm grateful for a nice, warm house with a furnace that works well.

I'm grateful Ray pushes the snow.

I'm grateful the girls are over their cold.

I'm grateful for days when things just seem to work well and I manage to actually get things done like I plan.

Perfect weather

I'm very grateful Ray stayed home with sick girls so I could go to church.

I'm grateful the girls seem to be feeling better.

I'm grateful Ray can fix things.

I'm grateful for the absolutely gorgeous weather we had today. We spent most of the afternoon outside in the yard. It wasn't too cold or too hot. It was perfect.

Hats

I'm grateful the girls learn fast. We only started working on wearing hats today and already they want their hats so they can go outside. The last time we went out today the hats never came off.

I'm grateful that, so far, neither Ray nor I have gotten the girls' cold. I'm grateful R seems to be getting better and I hope C will be there tomorrow.

I am grateful it was still warm enough after dark to be out walking with the girls with only a light jacket on.

Phones

I'm grateful for the continuing beautiful weather.

I'm grateful for a fenced yard for the kids to play in. I'm grateful it was warm enough we didn't need jackets.

I'm grateful for long telephone conversations with my sisters. Sometimes it's just nice to have an adult conversation, even if it has to be on the phone.

I'm grateful Ray actually came home at five.

Baths

I'm grateful my girls like to take baths. It is fun to see them get all excited when I mention bath time. It's also fun to watch them play.

I'm grateful the weather was beautiful so I was able to take the girls for a walk.

I'm very grateful Ray took over holding the girls when he got home so I could get something done.

Family Walk

I am grateful my girls slept for 12 hours last night. It was nice for me to finally feel like I got enough rest. It's very unusual for me to wake up before them.

I am grateful the weather warmed up again. I'm very grateful Ray took us all for a walk this evening. It was fun to get out as a family.

I'm grateful for my good friend who made me cookies for watching her daughter.

Dancing

I am very grateful my cavity didn't turn into a root canal.

I'm grateful Ray came home to watch the girls while I was at the dentist's office.

I'm grateful my girls love music. It's so much fun to watch them dance anytime they hear any music at all.

Parks

I think today was the warmest day we've had so far this year. The weather was beautiful. I'm so grateful for spring to be coming. I'm grateful we were able to get out and enjoy the beautiful weather. I'm grateful we're close to parks and playgrounds. Our yard isn't very big so it's nice to give the girls some space to play in.

I'm grateful the girls want to be right by me and doing the things I'm doing. Sometimes it's hard, but I really am trying to enjoy the time I spend with the girls. It's actually quite nice to slow things down and let the girls help.

I'm grateful Ray took the crying girls for a while this evening. I know it's not anymore fun for him than for me to have two kids crying right there, so I really do appreciate when he gives me a break.

Another Day

On days when I don't have Ray here to help me get the girls ready for church, like today, I realize just how grateful I am when I do have his help. Somehow, on my own I can never quite get us there on time. I hate walking in during the opening hymn.

I'm grateful for good friends who help entertain the girls during church.

I'm grateful we had nice weather and were able to take a walk this afternoon.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls outside so I could take a little nap and read.

Relief Society

This afternoon we had a Relief Society birthday party. It was so much fun to go visit with other sisters and to leave the girls home with Ray. We had an amazing program and great food. I really enjoyed it. I'm so grateful to be part of the Relief Society and I really appreciate the friends I have there.

I'm very grateful Ray spent most of the day watching the girls. I'm also grateful he helped me give them a bath this evening. It's so much easier with help.

Family Activities

I am grateful for the beautiful weather. It was so nice to get out and take a walk today. I also let the girls play outside for a little while. I love spring weather.

I'm grateful for family activities. It's nice to do things with all of us together.

I'm grateful Ray helped me make dinner.

A Great Day

I'm grateful Ray took the day off to spend with me and the girls. I'm grateful we had good weather. I'm very grateful we were able to have a wonderful, enjoyable day.

I'm grateful Ray changed the tires on my car so we were able to go places.

Flexibility

I'm grateful the girls haven't adjusted to daylight saving time yet. It means they sleep later so I can sleep later, too.

I'm grateful that we don't have a schedule to stick to. We can do things when we want and take all the time necessary. It's nice to be completely flexible.

I'm grateful to know that Ray is thinking of me and trying to figure out what I want.

Lil

I'm grateful I got to talk to Lil today. It's always entertaining to talk to Lil. She can always make me laugh.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls while I made dinner.

I'm grateful for my piano. I wish I had more time to play it, without making it a trio, but I love that I have it.

Randomness

I'm grateful the girls let me sleep in a bit. I'm not adjusted to the new time yet and neither are they.

I'm grateful I was able to get some rearranging of my furniture done today.

I'm grateful the sun came out.

I'm grateful Ray watched the girls while I made dinner.

Reverence

I am grateful all the kids in my Primary class today were very reverent. I've really been working hard on teaching them how to be reverent and they did a great job today.

I was highly amused during Sacrament Meeting that the teenagers we were sitting next to got more use out of our quiet book than my girls did. I guess it did keep them quiet. :-)

I'm grateful for the short nap I got today. I'm grateful Ray was around so he could tend to the girls.

I'm grateful the girls were entertaining themselves while I made dinner and loaded the dishwasher.

Assorted Things

I am so, so thankful that I was able to attend the Temple sealing of my friends today. It was such a beautiful experience. I love that Heavenly Father has made it possible for us to be united as families for the eternities.

I am glad that my intense hatred for Daylight Savings Time reminds me each year that Arizona (sorry, Arizona lovers) does have at least one good quality. Six years (5 in AZ and 1 in Korea) without the evil influence of time changes was a marvelous thing.

A Good Day

This morning Ray got up with the girls and fed them breakfast. I was able to linger in bed a few extra minutes and get ready at my leisure. I didn't have to wonder where the girls were or what they were getting into. It was lovely.

Ray also took the girls outside for a while. It is so nice to have an occasional day when Ray is around the whole time. It is wonderful to get a small break from always watching the girls.

A family in our ward invited us and two other families to dinner. It was a lot of fun and a great opportunity to get to know some ward members. I am so grateful I'm finally getting to know a few people in the ward. It's easier to feel like we belong if we know people.

I'm grateful Ray was driving when the tire on my car blew. I'm very grateful he changed the tire.

Running Errands

I'm grateful the girls enjoy running errands. They love to get their coats on and go. They love to be in the car. They absolutely love to ride around in the shopping carts at the grocery store. It is so nice that they like to go, it makes it much easier to take them.

I'm grateful Ray enjoys watching how much fun the girls have while running errands. That means he likes to go, too.

I'm grateful Ray occasionally suggests splurging on something for dinner so I don't have to cook.

Library

I'm grateful for the local library. We went to story time today. The girls really enjoyed it. They love to play around the children's section of the library.

I'm grateful it was nice enough to walk to the library.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls again this evening. It's so much easier to make dinner without help.

Happy Girls

I am grateful the girls woke up happy this morning.

I am grateful my computer is all running right again.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls with him all evening.

Helpful Girls

I'm grateful my children understand as much as they do and generally follow directions. They really do try to be helpful and sometimes do a very good job of it. Tonight I asked Cora to take a note to Ray that said dinner was ready. A minute later he showed up, she took the note right to him. I'm so glad she loves to help and really does make a good little messenger even if she can't talk yet.

I'm also grateful Ruby is getting so good at picking up toys before bedtime. She treats it like a game and runs around grabbing the toys before anyone else can get them.

I'm grateful today was another beautiful day and that we were able to spend some time in the yard. It's fun to watch how entertained the girls can be by sticks, rocks, and pine cones. They would be happy to stay outside all day.

I'm grateful the girls let me take a short nap this afternoon, I really needed it.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls for a walk this evening so I had a few minutes for myself.

Exercise

When we joined the YMCA just over a week ago, I set a goal to exercise every day except Sunday. I am happy to report that I've exercised every day except last Friday, when I was sick! It makes me feel so much better about myself. It also helps regulate my moods and makes me easier to live with. I'm sure my husband and kids are grateful for that.

Spring

I am grateful for the absolutely beautiful weather. It feels like spring is here. I'm grateful the girls and I were able to play in the yard (the gate is wonderful). I'm grateful we got to take a walk and play in the park, too.

I'm grateful I could open the windows of the house let warm air in, instead of out. I'm grateful I could air out the house for a few hours.

I'm grateful Ray went shopping with us.

Ray and Church stuff

I'm grateful Ray helped make dinner tonight. I find it so nice when we work on dinner together. It's a good time to talk (except when the girls are making too much noise).

I'm grateful Ray took the girls for a walk.

I probably shouldn't add this one, but it's true: I'm VERY grateful one child in my primary class doesn't come very often.

I'm grateful we weren't rushed this morning getting ready for church. Amazingly, we made it there with a few minutes to spare.

A Gate!!!

I am very grateful the sun came back today and warmed things up again. It was nice to let the girls be outside for a while.

I am extra grateful that Ray built a gate for our front yard. When it was just open the girls would always head straight down the sidewalk towards the street. It makes me feel much better to have a gate there.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls outside with him for a while. I'm grateful I was able to get a few things done today.

My Children Laughing

I'm grateful my children let me sleep in a bit this morning.

I'm grateful the girls are easily entertained by hats or by pushing highchairs around the kitchen or by turning circles until they are dizzy. I love to hear them laugh as they play together.

I'm grateful for funny stories other people share.

I'm grateful Ray doesn't comment when dinner doesn't turn out so well and just eats it anyway.

Bed

I'm very grateful Ray took the girls again this evening. It makes cooking dinner so much easier. I love that the girls want to help, but there are some things that are hard to let them help with. So I really appreciate every time Ray takes them out of the kitchen.

I'm grateful I had a good conversation with Mom today.

I'm grateful I've been able to fit in some fun projects for a few minutes here and there.

I'm very grateful I get to go to bed soon as that's all I really can think about at the moment.

Books

I am grateful for books on CD. I can enjoy the book and still get something else done. Also, I don't have to stop the book while I take care of my children.

I'm grateful I got to talk to Dad for a few minutes.

I am grateful Ray took the girls this evening so I had a little break.

I'm grateful the girls pick up their toys so well now.

I'm grateful for the Y-M-C-A...

We finally got a membership and I am so glad! We can drop our kids off in the childcare and work out. That's so nice. And, we can swim! My kids are so thrilled about that.

DJ actually got into the pool tonight! He did spend most of the time holding very tightly to the wall, but he let me pull him around for a bit and enjoyed it. Yea!!

Outside

I'm grateful for the nice weather we've been having. I'm grateful going outside makes the girls so happy.

I'm grateful Ray watched the girls while I was having my teeth cleaned.

Visiting Teachers

I'm grateful I have visiting teachers who actually contacted me. Apparently no one had my phone number, so one of them stopped by. It's been a long time since I had visiting teachers who came.

I'm grateful Ray has the girls right now so I can get a few things done.

I'm grateful the girls play together so well.

Talk

I'm grateful Ray got the girls ready for church this morning. I'm grateful we made it to church on time. I'm grateful my talk went well and amazed it went long. I'm grateful our friends played with Cora so we only had one girl on the stand with us.

I'm grateful it was a beautiful day and we were able to get out and take a family walk.

I'm grateful I got in a bit of a nap this afternoon. I'm grateful for all the little ways I find to entertain the girls. I'm really grateful the girls try to be helpful.

Vienna Boys' Choir

This afternoon a friend of mine called and asked if I would like to go see the Vienna Boys' Choir with her since her husband had to work and couldn't make it. What an amazing performance. I'm so grateful my friend thought of me. I'm extremely grateful I was able to go. I'm grateful Ray was willing to watch the girls. I highly recommend that anyone who has the chance, go. It seems so random to me that a choir from Europe would stop here on a tour, but I am very grateful they did. I love that I can experience music from the other side of the world here in my little town.

Sunshine

I'm grateful for the sunshine today. It's still a bit cold, but hey not as bad as usual!

I'm grateful for the example of a lamb. We have a bummer lamb we're taking care of out at the South Farm (sadly it's front legs are both in casts, but it's the cutest little thing) and it likes to follow you around. I was out there with it for a little while this morning and it was following me faithfully and I was just thinking how we are referred to as lambs in the bible and Christ is the Shepherd. Also, I watched the Shepherd of the South Farm flock save a lambs life this morning. The analogy is great. We do need to be like lambs and follow faithfully, and He will do everything He can to help us.

Nap schedules

I'm grateful my husband thinks he is funny. (I know I could delete the post below, but it may be the only blogging Ray ever does so I thought I should leave it.)

I'm grateful Ray watched the girls so I could go places alone. I'm grateful the girls were excited to see me when I got home.

I'm grateful the girls napped at different times today. While this may seem strange, it gave me some one-on-one time with both girls. Some things are so much easier if there is only one awake toddler. I was able to let Cora help me cook, something that is quite impossible with two babies.

Ray typed this:

I am grateful my wife has such a wonderful husband!

Birthdays (other people's)

I'm grateful birthdays remind me to call people I should call more often. I'm grateful I had a good chat with Aunt Betty.

I'm grateful for my washer, dryer, and clothesline. They have all been very busy today. It is so nice to have laundry facilities at home.

I'm grateful Ray gets the girls ready for bed every night. It gives me a few minutes to get other things accomplished.

I'm grateful the girls are copying the things I want them to learn, such as picking up their toys at night. I love how much they want to do everything I do.

Money -- counted and gone

I'm so glad that we were able to get our candy bar fundraising money counted and deposited. It's a huge weight off my mind. I'm also glad we have made as much as we have. Education isn't cheap, but it sure pays back when it's done right. I'm glad we've been able to be so involved with our kids' school this year. I hope they understand how important we feel school is. I also hope they someday know how lucky they have been to have such good teachers and friends here.

Ray's time

I'm grateful I was able to spend some time with several of my friends today. It's nice to get out and see people I don't see very often anymore.

I'm grateful the girls napped well.

I'm grateful Ray isn't too busy right now and has more time to spend with me and the girls.

I'm grateful for the many ways the girls make me smile. I love that Cora will walk up and stick her face against mine if I put my head in my hands. I love to watch Ruby dance.

Watching my kids

I am grateful it was nice enough that the girls and I could go out for a little while this morning. It was fun to watch the girls play in what little snow we have left. I'm grateful I can stay home with my kids and watch them as they learn and grow and figure things out.

I'm grateful Ray put new tubes in my bike tires (I flattened the old ones beyond repair). I'm very grateful he is able to do so many things that I cannot.

Conveniences

I am grateful for modern medicines.

I am grateful for the convenience of shopping centers. I'm grateful I don't have to go too far to get my groceries and other stuff.

I'm grateful Ray watched the girls while I had places to be.

Family Fun

I'm glad we went to the zoo today! It was so fun -- even if Jon did complain that he didn't want to go the whole way there and the whole way home. (He enjoyed it while he was there...) I'm grateful I went against my principles and pulled my kids out of school so that we could do it. I'm also very glad that it was free! That kind of family activity is very important when you have 5 kids.

Team Teacher

I'm very grateful to have a team teacher in Primary. She does a wonderful job of keeping the kids reverent while I try to teach them something. It's much harder when she's not there.

I'm grateful my house is easy to clean. I'm grateful Ray took the girls for a walk while I straightened the house.

I'm glad we were able to have some friends over. We don't see our friends from our old branch very often anymore. It was nice to visit with a couple of them. I'm very grateful the girls are doing better with other people.

Ray

I'm grateful Ray made breakfast. I'm grateful Ray took the girls for a couple of hours so I could work on a Primary lesson.

I'm grateful the girls love to spend time with Ray.

A Date

I'm grateful I got to go on a date with my husband. It was nice to have a break just for us. I'm very grateful for friends who were willing to watch our kids. I'm grateful our kids behaved well.

I am grateful for...

sleeping in,
being able to take a walk,
nice weather,
a convenient library,
good friends,
long chats with good friends,
Ray entertaining the girls, and
the feeling I actually accomplished something today.

No Schedule

I'm grateful for my lack of a schedule. It's nice to be able to sleep until the girls decide to get up. Then work things in as I have time, without having to worry about sticking to a schedule.

I'm grateful Ray took the girls with him this evening. It's amazing how much I can get done in an hour and a half without the girls.

I'm grateful for good friends who understand where I'm at in life. It's so good to have someone I can talk to who is going through the same things.

My Testimony

I am grateful that Heavenly Father gives me opportunities. I'm grateful He trusts me enough to allow me to make my own decisions. I'm even more grateful that He guides me when I seek His help. I am grateful for the gift and companionship of the Holy Ghost.

I am so grateful for the teachings of the Church on families. I know that my family is the most important thing and the best thing I can do is focus on my family and taking care of them. I am grateful to have a husband who works so hard to provide for us. I know I can count on him.

I've had a lot on my mind for the last twenty-four hours while I've considered some different options for me and my family right now. I think I need these times to bring me closer to Heavenly Father and our Savior. I'm so grateful for prayer. I'm grateful for the reminder that I need guidance. It would be nice to see the future, but I know I don't need to because the Lord will guide me where I need to go. I'm very grateful for my testimony and the strength it gives me, especially when times get tough.

Time

I'm grateful my girls slept in this morning so I got to sleep in.

I'm grateful I have all week to work on my Primary lesson.

I'm grateful Ray was around all evening.

Junk Removal

I'm grateful I survived Primary. I'm grateful Ray took the girls, even though he had to teach, too.

I'm grateful Ray is trying to get rid of junk and I'm really grateful there are people who want to buy it.

Praise

Today Jon told me that he and Dad had completed the entire level 4 on Lego Star Wars. I congratulated him with, "You guys did a really great job!" He responded, "No, we did a really awesome great job." I am glad that my kids let me know what they need to hear (and I really do mean it, even if I do laugh at them at times...). I love the looks on their faces when I repeat back the compliment they just fed me. Sometimes I wished it worked like that for adults. Wouldn't it be nice to always hear your strengths reinforced and weaknesses forgiven? I'm glad that Heavenly Father is a little bit like that with me. It's nice to know there's someone out there who appreciates me for exactly what I am right now, while recognizing my potential.

Personal Wins (though small)

I (Jenn) am glad that I actually lost weight this week. I was just hoping to stay level, since a ward party (main dish: funeral potatoes), a birthday party and eating out three times (the in-laws were visiting) do not usually add up to a fabulous diet. Who would have guessed? Weight loss is easier than I thought, just much more expensive than I'd hoped...

Nothing New

I'm grateful Ray got the girls this morning so I was able to sleep in for a few extra minutes.

I'm grateful for sisters to talk to.

I'm grateful for beautiful weather.

Helpful Husband

I'm very grateful it is getting much easier to get the girls places. It's much easier to get them in and out of the car, in and out of buildings, etc.

I'm grateful the girls took a very, very long nap today.

I am grateful Ray went grocery shopping with us and then helped make dinner.

Doctors

I'm thankful that I took my kids to the doctor today (I generally put it off as long as possible) and I'm glad the NP went with her instincts even though all of the symptoms didn't add up quite right and I'm glad that DJ is now on antibiotics for strep, though he never acted as though he even had a sore throat. Thank goodness he broke out in a rash?!

Clean Noses

I am grateful it was a nice day and that the girls and I could take a walk. I'm grateful the girls like taking walks and getting outside.

I'm grateful Ray plays with the girls. They get so excited when he gets home.

I'm grateful Ruby is wanting to get her nosed wiped now and will let me wipe her nose without a fight.

Reading

I love to read. I'm grateful that I can read and that I have so many options of what to read. I just finished a great book today. I'm always excited when I find a good book.

I'm grateful I had a good visit with one of my friends.

I'm grateful Ray is figuring out our taxes.

Good Books

I'm grateful it was a nice day. I'm grateful the girls and I were able to get out for a while.

I'm grateful for good books. I'm grateful to have a library so close and convenient.

I'm grateful that Ray entertained the girls (or maybe it was bored them, since they both fell asleep) while I was making dinner. That way I could read while the food was cooking. :-)

I'm still enjoying Jenn's story from yesterday. It's had me laughing all day.

Life

I'm just glad that somehow my kids have made it as many years as they have with only minor health issues. I'm also glad that none of them seem to be tending to obesity.

Check out my blog to gain further insight into this post and the previous one...

Good Stories

I'm grateful that I got to talk to all of my sisters and my mom today (not all at the same time). I'm grateful we can share entertaining stories (thanks, Jenn). I'm always grateful for a good laugh.

I'm grateful I had time to work on organizing the girls' room. I'm very grateful the girls took a long nap this afternoon. I'm grateful the girls can be entertained with a bowl and a spoon for long enough to make dinner.

Callings

I'm grateful to have a husband who is a worthy priesthood holder. I'm grateful that he accepts and fulfills callings. I'm grateful that home teaching is important to him.

I'm grateful to have a team-teacher in Primary. It helps a lot to have an extra adult to make bathroom trips and keep the kids in their chairs.

I'm grateful for our friends. We had a lot of fun watching the super bowl with them. I'm grateful Greg controlled his language in front of the girls.

I'm grateful to know that my lists can help others feel better. (Thanks, Mary, for your post.)

Meg

I'm grateful for Meg and her faithful account of all things gratifying. I came here tonight in a rather droll mood to find her many cheerful posts. I read through them and it really lifted me up to see all the things she decides (because I do believe it's a decision) to be grateful for. I am in much higher spirits and shall sleep better because of it.

Many Things

I am grateful that Ray cooked breakfast for us.

I am grateful for the very helpful people at Home Depot. Even if they didn't have what we were looking for, I was very impressed with how hard they tried to help us.

I'm grateful that it was a warm enough day to take the girls out for a bit. They love to be outside.

I'm very, very grateful that Ray installed child safety locks on the kitchen drawers and cupboards. I think this will lessen my frustration level substantially.

I am grateful that Ray gave the girls their bath this evening.

Naps

I'm grateful that I was able to get in a little nap today. I'm grateful the girls didn't do too much damage to the house while I was napping. I'm also grateful the girls napped well today.

I'm very grateful that Ray goes grocery shopping with us.

A Better Day

I'm grateful that today was much better than yesterday. I'm grateful I was able to spend quite a bit of time playing with the girls. I'm grateful I was able to find a temporary solution to the drawer issue.

I'm grateful Ray distracted the girls while I was making dinner.

Today is over

I'm grateful that the girls took a two hour nap this afternoon.

I'm grateful that Ray picked up all the clean laundry that the girls scattered around the floor.

Mostly I'm just grateful that this day is over and I hope tomorrow is better.

Family

I'm grateful that Jenn and I had a good, long (very long) conversation this afternoon. I love to talk to my family. It's the next best thing to seeing them.

I'm so grateful that Ray and I have family that cares so much about us.

I'm grateful that Ray entertained Ruby for a bit this morning so I could get a few minutes more of sleep.

Helping

I am grateful that my children want to help. I'm trying to guide their helping, but not discourage it. I'm grateful that it was a new trash bag that they decided to fill with their bibs. I'm also grateful I noticed it shortly after it happened.

The girls are figuring out some things, like taking clothes out of the dryer and handing them to me. It's good to have them involved with what I'm doing and they catch on really quick.

I'm grateful that Ray fed the girls dinner while I was trying to get other things done. I'm grateful that Ray changed the 4 light bulbs that were burnt out in the kitchen. (Yes, there were four that needed changed all at once, it almost felt pointless to turn on the lights.)

Primary

I am very grateful that my first day of Primary went so well. I wasn't sure what to expect and the first indication wasn't very favorable. Several of the kids were unhappy at the prospect of a new teacher. But by the time we were done with class the kids all seemed pretty happy. One of the girls, who spent most of the class saying, "Sister So-n-so always let me do ___," found me after church to give me a hug before she went home.

I'm grateful that Ray got brooms for the girls (he got them several days ago) and shortened the handles so they aren't dangerous (that he did today). The girls always try to take my broom when I'm sweeping, so if they have their own it is much nicer (in some ways).

Spiderwebs

I'm thankful that DJ told his primary teacher that he's thankful for "spiderwebs." It takes a lot of pressure off of me.

Clothesline

It may seem silly, but I am really excited to finally have a clothesline in my laundry room. Ray put it up this morning. I'm grateful that I won't have to run the dryer as much (the dryer heats up the thermostat thereby cooling down the rest of the house).

I'm grateful that Ray took the girls shopping this afternoon so I had time to prepare my Primary lesson.

I'm grateful that my parents have a cell phone so I can still call them even when they are on the internet.

My House

I am grateful that I have a nice, warm house to stay in while the temperatures drop and drop some more.

I'm very grateful that Ray always goes with me to do the grocery shopping.

I'm grateful that my girls go to bed so well. Most nights they ask us (by standing by the crib or grabbing their sleeping bags) to put them in bed. It is so nice.

Stuff

I'm grateful that my kids make me laugh. They can be so funny. And they show me exactly what I do all the time because that's what they copy.

I'm grateful for the guidance of the Holy Ghost and knowing that we don't have to make the difficult decisions all on our own.

I'm grateful I got to talk to my dad today. He's not generally around when I call, so it's extra nice when I can have a long conversation with him.

Flowers

I'm grateful the girls and I were able to take a walk this afternoon. It was beautiful weather for walking and the sidewalks were mostly clear. It was nice.

I'm grateful the girls want to help me do things and I'm more grateful that Ray distracts them. I know that it's good they want to do what I do, but sometimes it makes simple tasks (such as sweeping the floor) so much harder. It is so nice when Ray will take the girls and entertain them while I accomplish something.

I'm grateful that Ray noticed I was having a rough evening and got me some flowers.

Many Things

It's been a long time since I've posted. I realized today that my attitude has been digressing during that time (can attitudes actually digress??? I fear they cannot, but I cannot think of a better word). I do have so much to be thankful for.

I have taken back a little bit of control over my life by finally (after years of talking about it) deciding to seriously act upon my desire to lose weight. I've only been at it for a few days and it has not been easy, but I do feel better about myself already, just knowing that I'm putting in some effort, instead of just complaining about it. I'm very, very grateful that Derek has been really supportive, since it has required that I make some changes that I'd rather not make (chocolate and weight loss are not good friends) and he has been good about making them with me, even though he isn't so in need of them.

I am grateful for my kids. They are becoming so responsible. Jon and Nina both get themselves ready for school (both the night before and morning of) with relatively little support (once they are moving). Jon does his homework most nights, without being reminded. Nina never forgets her homework. All of my kids are so helpful with the baby, which is so impressive, when one considers their ages.

I'm grateful that the baby is not sleeping in my room any more. I'm so glad that Nina was so thrilled to have a girl room. I hope her joy in her sister lasts forever.

Warm Weather

This weather has been wonderful. It feels like spring is here, I'm enjoying it while it lasts. It was so nice to be able to go outside with just a light jacket on. The girls loved it, too.

I'm grateful that the girls decided to sleep in this morning so I could, too.

Healthy babies

I'm grateful that the girls are healthy and growing well. I'm also grateful they get over shots really fast with very few side effects. I'm very grateful that Ray was able to go with us to the doctor's appointment today, it is so much easier to handle two girls with him there.

I'm grateful that Ray helped with dinner tonight.

This Blog

This is the third Sunday we've attended our new ward and today I received a calling. Let's just say, it wasn't my first choice for a calling. Amongst other things, it won't be an easy calling to fulfill with two toddlers who aren't old enough for nursery yet, Ray will have to deal with both girls by himself for two hours. Anyway, I wasn't feeling very happy about it. So I called Jenn and we talked about it for quite a while. It really helped me feel better to talk through it. I'm so grateful that my sisters are always willing to talk. Then I remembered that Ariana had posted about receiving a calling she didn't want, so I looked back at her post. She wrote a lot of things I really needed to read. I'm very grateful that she took the time to write down her struggles then so it could help me now. I'm also grateful that Ray has a very positive attitude about it all and doesn't seem to mind that he'll have to take the girls with him.

The Temple

I'm so grateful that I was able to go to the Temple today. It has been way too long. I'm grateful that Ray was willing to drive there and watch the girls while I was at the Temple.

I'm grateful that the girls travel so well. I'm also grateful that the roads were clear and the weather was beautiful.

I'm grateful I got to talk to my little brother tonight. I don't get to see or talk to him very often so it was nice to catch up.

Family

I'm grateful that my girls like to be with me. It's funny how they will follow me from room to room sometimes. They don't even want my attention all the time, they just want to be where I am. I also love how they try to do what I'm doing.

I'm grateful that Ray really does try to make me happy. It means a lot that he thinks about me and what I want.

Food

I'm grateful for good food. I'm grateful that Ray will eat what I like sometimes, even if he doesn't like it so well. I'm also grateful that the girls generally like what I like to eat. (Can you tell I really enjoyed dinner?)

I'm grateful my girls play together so well and that they can entertain themselves. I love to hear them laughing together while they play.

I'm grateful that Ruby is very willing to take a nap or go to bed when she is tired. At nap time today she walked back to her room and stood by the crib until I got there to put her in, then she curled right up to go to sleep.

Twins

This morning I babysat a little girl about the same age as my girls. I am very grateful I only have twins and not triplets. It is nearly impossible to hold three of them at once. It also surprised me how much more attention it took with three. I am glad I only have two.

I am grateful I was able to visit with one of my friends for an hour or so. It was nice to have some adult conversation.

I am grateful the girls took a good, long nap this afternoon.

I am grateful Ray clears the snow off the sidewalks so I don't have to.

Accomplishments

I finally made myself enough room to exercise and then actually exercised. It felt great and made the rest of my day go so much better. I also took the time to practice piano. I don't know how long it's been since I actually practiced, but I'm sure it was pre-kids. It was nice to be improving again. I'm very grateful that my children are at an age where they can entertain themselves for extended periods of time. I'm grateful they feel well enough to play. It's nice to have time to accomplish things again.

I'm grateful that Ray gets the girls ready for bed every night. It gives me a few minutes to write in my journal and blog.

Laundry

I'm grateful for clothing (esp. on cold days). I'm also grateful that most of the clothing in our house is currently clean and folded (and much of it is even put away!).

Piano

I am so grateful I have a piano. I use my piano as a calming mechanism. If I am frustrated or upset I can sit down and play and soon feel calmer. I also love that my girls love the piano. I hope they continue to want to play. Right now we usually play trios, if I start to play they both join me.

I am grateful that my children and I are getting better at communicating with each other. While they still don't talk well, they are getting better at pointing and other things that let me know what they want or need. It is making things easier in many ways.

I am grateful that Ray helps me with the grocery shopping. It's much, much easier than trying to take two girls by myself.

Relaxing

I'm very much enjoying going to church at the same time as my husband. It is so much easier to get two babies in and out of the car, in and out of buildings, etc, with help. It is especially nice since we have morning church now so I have less time to get everyone ready. Having help getting diapers changed and babies dressed is wonderful.

I'm grateful I had very little to do this afternoon so I was able to relax and read a little bit. Ray was around all day so the girls split their time between following me and following him. It's nice to get a little break sometimes.

Visiting

First, I am very grateful the roads were clear and the weather was perfect for traveling, since we were on the road today.

I'm grateful we were able to spend the day with Ray's cousin and her family. It was such a nice day. Our girls and her girls all got along quite well. It was nice to get out of the house and have someone to visit with.

I'm glad to be home, safe, with a nice, soft bed to crawl into.

New things

I love to figure out new things. Today I started playing around with a photo and figured out how to edit it, change the background, and a few other things. It was a lot of fun to try new things and make it work.

I'm grateful that I am able to talk to my family so much.

A Thank You

Today we got a thank you card from our neighbor across the street. She is an older woman, I believe a widow, I have never met her and Ray has only talked to her once. Ray has been clearing the snow from her sidewalk, along with the rest of the sidewalk the whole stretch of the block (he made himself a snowplow blade for his four-wheeler and I think he just likes to play with it). So she sent us a thank you. It meant a lot. None of the other neighbors have said anything about it. She figured out who was doing it and went to the trouble of writing and mailing a thank you. It really lifted my day. I learned from this that I need to be more vocal about the things I am grateful for and let other people know when I appreciate them.

I'm grateful that Ray lets the girls "help" with his projects, even when it slows him down. They get so excited about helping Daddy and it gives me a little break.

My Sweet Baby

I am so grateful that I was blessed with a 'good' baby. Some babies are so challenging (I've had a couple of those) and some are so easy (thankfully, in my case, Heavenly Father has sent me a few of those, too). Naomi is definitely on the easier end. It has been a great blessing. One of the best things is her nighttime sleeping -- for several weeks now she has consistently slept 8-10 hours a night. It makes my life so much happier.

She is also very quick to smile. Today she had her six month checkup and immunizations. She has had serious vomiting following her rota virus immunization before and today was a repeat of that, but she was still smiling and laughing. Her smiles can completely change the mood in our house. All of her siblings adore her. They love being the one to make her smile and laugh. She is a great blessing to all of us.

Google

I am very grateful for the internet and the tons of information that is available on it. It is so easy to search for things and find answers to questions. It is also such a great way to keep in touch with people and keep up with current events. I don't watch TV and we don't get the newspaper, so the internet is my main source for news. I love that it is available to me anytime I need it.

I'm grateful my husband is handy and can fix things around the house. It's so nice to have someone here when I need something fixed rather than having to pay someone else. It's also very good because he keeps the house in good shape all the time.

Cleanliness

I'm very grateful that Ruby seems to be over whatever she had. She was a much happier baby today. Because of that I was able to get a few things done around the house. It is much nicer when my house is clean. While I don't necessarily enjoy cleaning it, I do enjoy the results.

Chairs

Christmas was continued today, another gift came for the girls. They each got a little chair from their grandma. I am very excited about these chairs. Ruby spent most of the afternoon sitting in hers. Cora was in and out. Ruby hasn't been feeling well and having a comfortable place for her to sit means she doesn't need me to hold her constantly. I was very grateful for that today.

I am grateful I was able to have a long, uninterrupted conversation with Lil. I love to talk to my sisters.

Family

I'm so glad to have Roy here --even if it is a short visit. We have had so much fun with him. I'm so excited that he will be so close to us for the next few months. Hopefully we'll see quite a bit of him. I miss my family, so I really enjoy every opportunity to spend time with any (and all) of them.

I'm also glad that our move to a new church building (same ward, but different building -- the church is growing here) went really smoothly (I thought). It was a bit crazy, especially since it was also the annual primary move (all the kids moving to new classes, that is), but everyone was well prepared. All of my kids handled really well. (Jon did comment, with surprise, that all of the same people were at our new church. He's way too used to moving.)

I have loved this vacation. School resumes in the morning and I shall enjoy what that offers, but I will miss the lazy days of holiday. We have had so much fun, even if we didn't get to half the projects I had planned. It was exactly what we all needed.

Switching wards

Today we switched from the college branch to a family ward. I'm very grateful for the branch and the time I was able to spend with it. I've made some wonderful friends there and I will miss them. Not that we're going anywhere, but I won't see them as often. They are wonderful people and have all made positive impacts on my life.

I'm also grateful for our new ward and the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends. It is time for us to try something new, I'm excited.

Clair's books

Today I neglected many things I should have been doing and read Clair's latest book. I loved it, just as I have loved all his books. I love to read and have been trying to get to this book for some time. Today I decided everything else I needed to do could wait. It was great to get lost in a story and almost forget about everything else. I guess I was needing a break and I'm glad I took one.

I'm grateful my girls mostly entertained themselves while I was reading.

Humor

Lil and I were discussing many tongue in cheek things that we could be thankful for (like a lack of self-discipline: no worries about becoming anorexic). It made me laugh and reminded me that I am truly grateful for humor. Laughter makes the world so much more bearable at the tough times and so much more enjoyable in the good times. I love to laugh and the more I do it, the better I feel.

Taking a Walk

Today was beautiful. The girls and I were able to take a walk. It was such a nice change from the terrible cold we've had. The girls are always wanting to go outside so they enjoyed it and I love to walk.

I'm grateful the girls let me take a short nap this afternoon.

I'm very grateful that Ray sorted through all our potatoes and threw out the rotten ones. I really didn't want to, so I appreciated that he did.

Boxes

I'm grateful that Ray didn't have to go to work today so he could sleep in and not wake up the girls.

I'm grateful my girls can entertain themselves just by sitting in a diaper box. The two of them are sitting in their boxes right now, happy as can be. They don't have any toys, just the boxes they are sitting in. I think it's funny and it makes things much easier on me. The girls regularly ask to sit in the boxes now. It's great.