Tonight I (Jenn) am posting via Derek's account and including his input.
Halloween was a lot of fun! It's an especially great day for Michael, who lives in his very own imaginative world most of the time. We spent most of the day at the school, since we were involved with three parties. This is our second year of planning (or helping to plan) classroom parties. I am so grateful for all the families that supported us this year. We had fun. The kids had fun. And, it wasn't all that stressful.
We also went to our friend's house for a party tonight. It was so fabulous! Again and again since being here, I have been so grateful for all of the good friends we have been blessed with.
Derek is grateful that the Sharks beat Detroit (and did it well). They did it yesterday, but he watched the game this morning. He's also grateful for his bed. And, on that note, I had best end. It's been a long day and we need sleep. Hopefully tomorrow I can post that I'm grateful that all of my children slept until 10...
Friday, October 31, 2008
Happy Halloween!
We finally sold our little house today. It's all official, deed signed and money in the bank (for a day or two). I'm very grateful it all worked out. Considering how the economy and housing market in general seem to be going we were a little worried. I guess that makes the blessing seem even better. The lady who bought it was really happy to get it and so glad that it was in good shape, everything new and working. It makes all the hard work worth it.
Since today is Halloween, I will mention that I love holidays. People are so nice on holidays. I took the girls to Ray's office, the girls were in costume. Everyone was so excited to see them and give them candy. On the way home we stopped to grab some groceries. On a normal day most people won't say anything to you, but today so many people said, "Happy Halloween," or commented on the girls' costumes and how cute they looked. Holidays seem to bring out the best in people. Besides, what other day of the year can people wander around in completely crazy outfits and get away with it?
Also, I appreciate good friends. I stopped by the City building, where I used to work, to run some errands. It was so fun to chat with my former co-workers and see how everyone is doing.
P.S. I'm so excited that you are all getting involved with this. I love to read what you are grateful for because it reminds me of other things that I'm grateful for. It is definitely true that there is strength in numbers.
Since today is Halloween, I will mention that I love holidays. People are so nice on holidays. I took the girls to Ray's office, the girls were in costume. Everyone was so excited to see them and give them candy. On the way home we stopped to grab some groceries. On a normal day most people won't say anything to you, but today so many people said, "Happy Halloween," or commented on the girls' costumes and how cute they looked. Holidays seem to bring out the best in people. Besides, what other day of the year can people wander around in completely crazy outfits and get away with it?
Also, I appreciate good friends. I stopped by the City building, where I used to work, to run some errands. It was so fun to chat with my former co-workers and see how everyone is doing.
P.S. I'm so excited that you are all getting involved with this. I love to read what you are grateful for because it reminds me of other things that I'm grateful for. It is definitely true that there is strength in numbers.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Friends
I am grateful for my two best friends that both share the name of Jodi. Today as I was going through my classes and work I got texts from each of them just telling me they love me. It just made my day brighter. Then when I got done with class I called one of the Jodi's to see if she would come get some food with me and chat, she readily agreed to join and she let me talk most of the time in the car. My Jodi's are great!
Also, I am grateful for my friend Todd. Todd finally came country swing dancing with me last night. I try to get him to join me every Wednesday, but usually he declines. It was so much fun having him there. Also, Todd gives the best hugs.
Then lastly I am grateful for my cousin Brittany, who I got to hang out with tonight. I went with Brittany to a Ryan Shupe and the Rubber Band concert. It was so much fun. Brittany is so fun to hang out with, I really need to do more stuff with her while we both live in the same city.
Also, I am grateful for my friend Todd. Todd finally came country swing dancing with me last night. I try to get him to join me every Wednesday, but usually he declines. It was so much fun having him there. Also, Todd gives the best hugs.
Then lastly I am grateful for my cousin Brittany, who I got to hang out with tonight. I went with Brittany to a Ryan Shupe and the Rubber Band concert. It was so much fun. Brittany is so fun to hang out with, I really need to do more stuff with her while we both live in the same city.
Family
I am so grateful that my children sleep through the night. And that they sleep through Ray's alarm when it goes off at 4 or 5 in the morning. That lets me get enough sleep to function well throughout the day and the girls are happier, too.
I appreciate the days my husband can come home for lunch. I keep a much better schedule and I eat lunch. When he doesn't come home I sometimes forget. Don't worry, I don't forget to feed my kids, just me. I also appreciate it when my husband is around in the evenings. I was thinking about this today because he had to work late. It is so much nicer when he's here and can help with the girls. Evenings when he's not here make me appreciate him more when he is.
I'm still loving the weather, too. I've been taking advantage of the abnormally warm weather by spending some time outside every day. It has been so nice.
I appreciate the days my husband can come home for lunch. I keep a much better schedule and I eat lunch. When he doesn't come home I sometimes forget. Don't worry, I don't forget to feed my kids, just me. I also appreciate it when my husband is around in the evenings. I was thinking about this today because he had to work late. It is so much nicer when he's here and can help with the girls. Evenings when he's not here make me appreciate him more when he is.
I'm still loving the weather, too. I've been taking advantage of the abnormally warm weather by spending some time outside every day. It has been so nice.
Temples
Tyler and I went to the temple yesterday morning, and I was just thinking how grateful I am for temples!! No matter what's going on in your life, it gives you the perspective and the peace that you need. It's literally heaven on earth. I am especially grateful for the Vernal temple in particular. I am so lucky to have it so close. As we were leaving, the Brother at the front desk called after us, "Hurry back!" I loved that. Even as we're leaving the temple, we should already be thinking of when we can come back. So I am thankful that I have one to go back to, and grateful for a husband who has the desire to go as often as possible.
Church Callings
This is something I've been wanting now for quite some time. In my old ward in Utah, I had three callings (four, briefly) at one time, not including the four women that I visit taught often by myself due to a working partner. I remember at the time loving each of my callings, but feeling a bit overwhelmed (I was also 6 months pregnant when I received my third calling and fourth calling, ending up having to back down on one of them because I just couldn't make it work, then still had three callings until Nadia was about three months old) and wondering how I was going to balance everything that I needed to. But then, when Nadia was about three or four months old, I went down to one calling-the enrichment board. I felt relieved and grateful that my burden had been lightened a bit. However, it wasn't what I thought it was going to be. My ideas were pushed aside, I was never called about meetings, therefore missing many, and I won't get to into the whole mess, but basically, I did nothing in that calling. I was excited to move and be in a new ward, with new people and get a new calling where I could feel needed and feel like I was making a difference in my own life, as well as others. We moved, and I waited and waited, thinking surely I would be getting a calling soon. I am not one that hopes to sneak unnoticed without a calling. I like callings because then it really makes me feel a part of the ward and it makes me feel like I'm doing my part in the gospel. So, number one-I'm grateful for the church and the opportunities we have to serve within. A few months went by and still nothing, then the boundaries were rearranged and a new ward was created, my ward. And I still waited, wondering when my turn would be. I'd been praying for a calling for quite some time. Finally, Tuesday night I had an interview with the bishopric and received my calling...Relief Society Pianist. I admit that I felt a bit of a let-down. I was so excited for a calling and was hoping for something new, something I really could grow from. I accepted the interview and left, wanting to cry. You see, my whole life I've had music callings and even when I haven't had musical callings, I'm still getting called to play at all the baptisms, ward functions, fill in for Relief Society, Primary, etc. I've never NOT played for something. My mother was the same way and was even the ward choir director for 11 years, not to mention everything else that she did, often involving music. So I felt that this wouldn't really help me grow. But then, after spilling my emotions out to my husband and wondering to myself why I had to get stuck with this calling, why other people that have musical abilities never make it known or refuse to play, etc. my husband said something to me that hit me hard. He said, "Maybe you get these callings because you complain about the callings you are given and dwell on the ones you don't want to receive, rather than being grateful for what the Lord gives you." Wow, had I really been complaining that much??? So, number two- I'm grateful for a husband that loves me enough to point out where I need help. So I thought and prayed about it all night, then I read about this gratitude blog the next day and I decided it was definitely time to focus on the positive, in fact, long overdue. I'm going to look for things to be grateful for put my life in perspective. The Lord gives us trials and blessings and we grow from all of them, even if we don't always see the outcome (or at least don't see it for quite some time). So, number three- I'm grateful for my musical abilities and opportunities to use my talents. I'm grateful for a mother who taught me never to be afraid of using those talents to serve others, to serve in the church, etc. I'm grateful I've always said yes when asked and that I can say that I'm not hiding them under a bushel, but letting my light shine. I'm grateful to be the new Relief Society Pianist and the first one the Rigby 16th ward has ever had!
Family Time
First, I want to thank Jenn and Meg for letting me be a part of this. I love to read blogs when they are positive. When they are not I usually don't finish it because I don't want to be a part of the negativity. This is an awesome idea. I think it makes us all feel better.
I am so grateful for family time. By this I mean my husband, my three kids, and me. This doesn't happen alot because Wade works so much but last night was our 'pumpkin carving' family activity. I enjoyed it so much because the kids were having so much fun. It was okay that their were pumpkin guts all over my kitchen from the kids pulling them out of the pumpkin because they were so hard at work and having so much fun. Wade worked hard at helping Briaunna carve a wolf in one pumpkin and a cat in another. The babies and I managed a face. How nice when we can spend quality time doing something that we are all having fun with.
I am so grateful for family time. By this I mean my husband, my three kids, and me. This doesn't happen alot because Wade works so much but last night was our 'pumpkin carving' family activity. I enjoyed it so much because the kids were having so much fun. It was okay that their were pumpkin guts all over my kitchen from the kids pulling them out of the pumpkin because they were so hard at work and having so much fun. Wade worked hard at helping Briaunna carve a wolf in one pumpkin and a cat in another. The babies and I managed a face. How nice when we can spend quality time doing something that we are all having fun with.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Wednesday -- I've really liked that word since I learned to spell it...
I am thankful that my friends forgive me, despite my failing mind and subsequent missing of appointments. I'm also glad that they call me and remind me of things I should be doing. I missed one visiting teaching appointment today, but I was able to make the other, because of my sweet friend (whose visit I missed). Now, I will be really, really thankful when my mind resumes normal functioning. Will that ever happen?
My eyes are getting tons better -- finally. I am so grateful to 1) see without glasses, 2) drive, 3) look people in the eye and 4) use my computer without discomfort. It seemed like forever that I was battling the effects of LASIK (my reactions were abnormal, for anyone getting scared about trying it), but it did make me appreciate things I'd always taken for granted.
I'm so glad that I have friends who support me in my attempts to better myself. Some of my friends and I have started walking in the evenings. I love the grown up time, the good girlfriend conversations and the exercise. I come home feeling better physically and emotionally.
I love my kids. Yesterday, I forgot to tell this story about Nina. Michael was discussing puking (this is a typical Michael topic). Nina noted that her teacher calls puking "barking." "When people bark, it's throwing up," said my adorable little girl. I am also thankful for laughter (which I must sometimes hold for later...).
My eyes are getting tons better -- finally. I am so grateful to 1) see without glasses, 2) drive, 3) look people in the eye and 4) use my computer without discomfort. It seemed like forever that I was battling the effects of LASIK (my reactions were abnormal, for anyone getting scared about trying it), but it did make me appreciate things I'd always taken for granted.
I'm so glad that I have friends who support me in my attempts to better myself. Some of my friends and I have started walking in the evenings. I love the grown up time, the good girlfriend conversations and the exercise. I come home feeling better physically and emotionally.
I love my kids. Yesterday, I forgot to tell this story about Nina. Michael was discussing puking (this is a typical Michael topic). Nina noted that her teacher calls puking "barking." "When people bark, it's throwing up," said my adorable little girl. I am also thankful for laughter (which I must sometimes hold for later...).
Another Beautiful Day
Once again, the weather was wonderful and we were able to go outside to play. Then this evening we took a walk as a family.
I got to rake leaves. Which may sound odd, but I really do enjoy raking leaves. The girls like to play in the leaves, so it works out for all of us.
Also, I'm so grateful for the days I get to talk to my family. Since we all live so far apart it's hard to keep up with everything that's going on. I don't know what I would do if I couldn't call my mom or my sisters just to chat. It's always nice to talk about any random subject and to catch up on all the cute things my nieces and nephews are doing.
I got to rake leaves. Which may sound odd, but I really do enjoy raking leaves. The girls like to play in the leaves, so it works out for all of us.
Also, I'm so grateful for the days I get to talk to my family. Since we all live so far apart it's hard to keep up with everything that's going on. I don't know what I would do if I couldn't call my mom or my sisters just to chat. It's always nice to talk about any random subject and to catch up on all the cute things my nieces and nephews are doing.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
It was a great day!
Already this experiment is working for me. Several times today I caught myself thinking, "This is good! I could blog this." I'll just share a couple.
So first, Meg mentioned naps. Amen to that. I love the time that I get when my baby sleeps. I love the quiet when my 3 and 4 year olds sleep. But I also love the going to sleep process. I love holding my baby as she starts to drift. She has smiled and made lots of eye contact since very early in her life and she will just stare at me as she gets sleepy. Occasionally she smiles halfway -- she's too sleepy to finish it -- then fades a little more. Usually now, she grabs my shirt or my finger and holds on tight. Once she's asleep I pry (as gently as possible) her little hand from me. Eventually I put her down, but I always enjoy at least a few moments of holding an angel.
With my boys, it's the waking up that is more enjoyable. By the time they sleep they are always so grumpy (that's how I decide which days to force a nap). When they wake, they are so fun. I'm rejuvenated and so are they and we all get along again.
Second, Derek and I both remembered our anniversary this year. We kind of have a problem with that -- it kind of gets lost amidst all the Halloween fun every year. We didn't get to do a whole lot, since he had classes, but I enjoyed it. We did feed our kids and put them to bed, so that we could have our own meal. Naomi even cooperated. It was so nice to talk. It was also quite enjoyable to eat warm food...
Third, I managed to get my kitchen returned to a tolerable state. It had gotten really bad. It's livable again and I am very, very happy about it. Now, if it would only last a whole day.
I'll end with one that happened when I was at Walmart with my 3 youngest children. I was trying to shop fast, but that doesn't work out that well with a baby, 3 yr old and 4 yr old. In the middle of the trip, I decided I would have to use the restroom. I was really not looking forward to it, because I didn't know what I was going to do with the baby. In desperation (and with some trepidation) I handed her to Michael (who is bigger than her -- by a little). Just then a sweet little lady saw what was happening and offered to hold the baby for me. What a relief. I hope that she someday knows that that little act really meant a lot to me. Not only did it help me at the moment, but it reminded me of the good that exists in our society.
So first, Meg mentioned naps. Amen to that. I love the time that I get when my baby sleeps. I love the quiet when my 3 and 4 year olds sleep. But I also love the going to sleep process. I love holding my baby as she starts to drift. She has smiled and made lots of eye contact since very early in her life and she will just stare at me as she gets sleepy. Occasionally she smiles halfway -- she's too sleepy to finish it -- then fades a little more. Usually now, she grabs my shirt or my finger and holds on tight. Once she's asleep I pry (as gently as possible) her little hand from me. Eventually I put her down, but I always enjoy at least a few moments of holding an angel.
With my boys, it's the waking up that is more enjoyable. By the time they sleep they are always so grumpy (that's how I decide which days to force a nap). When they wake, they are so fun. I'm rejuvenated and so are they and we all get along again.
Second, Derek and I both remembered our anniversary this year. We kind of have a problem with that -- it kind of gets lost amidst all the Halloween fun every year. We didn't get to do a whole lot, since he had classes, but I enjoyed it. We did feed our kids and put them to bed, so that we could have our own meal. Naomi even cooperated. It was so nice to talk. It was also quite enjoyable to eat warm food...
Third, I managed to get my kitchen returned to a tolerable state. It had gotten really bad. It's livable again and I am very, very happy about it. Now, if it would only last a whole day.
I'll end with one that happened when I was at Walmart with my 3 youngest children. I was trying to shop fast, but that doesn't work out that well with a baby, 3 yr old and 4 yr old. In the middle of the trip, I decided I would have to use the restroom. I was really not looking forward to it, because I didn't know what I was going to do with the baby. In desperation (and with some trepidation) I handed her to Michael (who is bigger than her -- by a little). Just then a sweet little lady saw what was happening and offered to hold the baby for me. What a relief. I hope that she someday knows that that little act really meant a lot to me. Not only did it help me at the moment, but it reminded me of the good that exists in our society.
Computers
Ok, so I'm new to posting and my computer did something weird and said my last post didn't work, so I posted it again. Then I looked at the blog and there were two of the same post. I couldn't have that so I thought "I will just delete one." No, I can't figure out how, so I decided I must just think of another thing to be grateful for.
Here it is, I am grateful for computers/internet. Look at this I can see what is going on in the lives of my family and friends from my own home. So I am thankful for this connection that technology has given us.
Here it is, I am grateful for computers/internet. Look at this I can see what is going on in the lives of my family and friends from my own home. So I am thankful for this connection that technology has given us.
Sisters
I also love and am grateful for autumn so I thought I would put on this pretty picture my sister took a few weeks ago.Also, I am grateful for my sisters that listen to me when I need someone to talk to and give me advice when I need help. I love being the little sister and having so many siblings to look up to!
Autumn
I am grateful for beautiful fall weather. It is so nice today, we were able to go for a walk and play outside for quite a while. The girls love to be outside, too.
I am also grateful for story time at the library. The girls enjoy it and it gives me a reason to get out of the house. It's also within a convenient walking distance.
One more, I am grateful for naps. The few that I get, but more so the ones my girls take. It makes them much happier babies and much easier for me to take care of. It also gives me a little time to myself, if I can get them to nap at the same time.
I am also grateful for story time at the library. The girls enjoy it and it gives me a reason to get out of the house. It's also within a convenient walking distance.
One more, I am grateful for naps. The few that I get, but more so the ones my girls take. It makes them much happier babies and much easier for me to take care of. It also gives me a little time to myself, if I can get them to nap at the same time.
Monday, October 27, 2008
The Little Things
Jenn has already explained the idea behind this blog. So, today I was thinking about what I really am grateful for. There are so many little things that happen each day that make it so wonderful to be a mother. Like when my babies laugh just because I am kissing them. Or the opportunity to hold my babies and rock them to sleep. I really do treasure these moments. Hopefully this blog will help me focus more on the little things that matter so much.
My family
Easy and obvious, though not always truly appreciated -- by me, at least. This seems like it should be the simplest of all blessings to be thankful for, but sometimes I find it to be so difficult. That's why I started this experiment with family.
I have a wonderful husband. He is funny, helpful, handsome, hardworking, and even quite romantic at times. He puts a lot of thought into my happiness and I am not always as appreciative (at least verbally) as I should be. I love him and am very thankful that he loves me.
I have five beautiful (or handsome, as the case may be) children. They have energy, love, and joy to share anytime I am willing to accept it. They trust me and believe in me and want to be with me. Sometimes we don't see eye to eye (they are kind of short still), but I am grateful for the strength of character they already exhibit. I am thankful that they put up with my moods and love me unconditionally. I am a better person because I have been blessed by their presence in my life.
Getting married and having children changed my life dramatically (obviously). Sometimes I wonder what it would have been like if I had stayed single. Sometimes it even has a little appeal. I admit that I do not love piles of laundry, dishes, toys, etc. I get tired of feeling like a maid (and an under appreciated, underpaid one at that). But then I always realize that I could not ever have found the same happiness in that imagined life that my family has brought to me.
In the future, I plan to make my posts more of a record of the day-to-day things that bring me joy, make me laugh or remind me of the best in life and the potential I can reach. I hope that this will help me (and any who take the time to read) refocus my life on the positive.
I have a wonderful husband. He is funny, helpful, handsome, hardworking, and even quite romantic at times. He puts a lot of thought into my happiness and I am not always as appreciative (at least verbally) as I should be. I love him and am very thankful that he loves me.
I have five beautiful (or handsome, as the case may be) children. They have energy, love, and joy to share anytime I am willing to accept it. They trust me and believe in me and want to be with me. Sometimes we don't see eye to eye (they are kind of short still), but I am grateful for the strength of character they already exhibit. I am thankful that they put up with my moods and love me unconditionally. I am a better person because I have been blessed by their presence in my life.
Getting married and having children changed my life dramatically (obviously). Sometimes I wonder what it would have been like if I had stayed single. Sometimes it even has a little appeal. I admit that I do not love piles of laundry, dishes, toys, etc. I get tired of feeling like a maid (and an under appreciated, underpaid one at that). But then I always realize that I could not ever have found the same happiness in that imagined life that my family has brought to me.
In the future, I plan to make my posts more of a record of the day-to-day things that bring me joy, make me laugh or remind me of the best in life and the potential I can reach. I hope that this will help me (and any who take the time to read) refocus my life on the positive.
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