GrowingRopers

{hero}

2012-01-02T22:33:00.002-05:00

I’m a “Daddy’s Girl.” With that said, the person that I wanted to marry as I was growing up was my Grandfather. Smokey. Nic-named that, as a boy, for shooting out the lights that lined the streets in Black Earth, Wisconsin. My Grandpa wasn’t always the best husband, or so the stories went. But he was always such an example of gentle strength and valor... in the eyes of this little girl. And my Grandma matched him as a companion. Both amazing people with amazing lives and stories to tell. I had amazing Grandparents who had a profound impact on my life. As I have gotten older…and they have gotten older, I have realized more and more how they have shaped the person I am.
My Grandmother has been declining with Alzheimer's as the years have progressed. And my Grandfather, the stalwart man that I always thought him to be, has truly stepped up to the plate to be her knight in shining armor. I have seen every other person around her show frustration, tiredness, aggravation, exhaustion (all understandable). Never once have I seen the slightest hint of any of these things in my Grandfather’s countenance. And how amazing it would be for someone to pull this off, and be so proud of themselves. But my Grandfather doesn’t even know that he has anything to feel proud of. He doesn’t feel aggravated or short changed, while managing to work through it and be the person he knows he should be. He doesn’t put on a smile in an attempt to be gallant. He simply is. When thinking about this as I sat with them one day, I pointed out to my Grandpa how happy Grandma is, and asked him if he realized that this is often not how people in her position feel. He was confused. He truly didn’t know. I guess he assumed that every aging woman who is constantly confused is madly in love with her husband? Maybe he even thought that she was in love because she was confused? She is, in fact, in love (more in love than I have ever seen her) because he is lovable. Absolutely adorably lovable. He goes along with her stories and plays with her and flirts with her and does anything he can do to make her feel happy. My Grandmother started humming (almost beatboxing) as the dementia has gotten worse. It’s quite cute at times. Her, just sitting there to her own rhythm, smiling at my Grandfather. And then she’ll stop and begin to tell me how much her and Smokey love each other, how much in love they have always been, and how they have never fought a day in their whole life (not even close to true, mind you). One time, during this conversation, I got my Grandfather’s attention and pointed out that Grandma was telling me how happy they have always been and how they have never fought a day in their marriage. Grandpa just smiled and agreed (winking to me), telling me how much they do love each other. He then told me their nightly routine. Grandma lays down for the night and begins making her “mouth music”. He laughs and tells her, “ok Gene, time to sleep. No more singing”. She laughs back, and agrees to stop. And then she begins to tell him how much she loves him, how thankful she is for him, how they have always been so happy and never fought. My Grandmother goes to bed happy each night, laying beside the love of her life, because of the love that that very man consistently shows her.
My Grandpa couldn’t have lived up to my beliefs in him any more than he is. They are both so lucky to have had this life together. I am so grateful to know that they will be together in the next life.

In the mean time, I will be praying for my Grandmother, that as she gets more confused and more physically ill, she will not feel alone. I pray that she will continue to feel loved and in love. I pray that she will have peace. And for my dear Grandfather, I pray that he will feel lifted with a sweet strength that love brings. That he will feel peace with the things which are going to happen. And that he will feel the truth that their love won’t end as my Grandma passes on. The love that has grown in the past few years will not be lost. They will be together. Grandma might not remember who he is today, but she will know who he is for the eternities to come. What a King and Queen they have turned out to be.

2011-10-28T22:58:00.001-04:00

Today I got to lay on the couch with Caleb for about 45 minutes, arms wrapped around eachother, as I received random kisses. It was a good day.

2011-10-19T09:45:00.002-04:00

Today is wet. Its chilly and grey and wet. The leaves are covering the ground. My feet are cold. My hair and makeup aren't done. Its quiet. And it's perfect.

{love}

2011-10-04T20:48:00.003-04:00

The love you feel from a child is unlike any other. It's so adorable how simply they love you. Tonight, Caleb informed me, "Mom, your breath stinks. BUT, I love you SO much." Now that is love!
Our nightly lullaby is Silent Night. It amazes me that they still ask me to sing it, I sing like a frog. Yet they do. They are certainly to the age where they can tell that I can't sing. However, they accept my voice. Reminds me of when Caleb was born... when he was being weighed he started crying. The moment I spoke to him from across the room, he fell silent to listen to my voice. He knew my voice, he knew I was his mommy, and he loved me already. There are so many simple things that make being a mom the most amazing experience.

children

2011-10-02T18:16:00.002-04:00

Today, the kids were having a hard day. Grace came and told me that she didnt feel comfortable because she didnt feel the spirit. I asked her what we could do and she suggested we read scriptures. Caleb chose 2 Nephi 26.
I just wanted to share 2 verses.

29. That men preach and set themselves up for a light unto the world, that they may get gain and praise of the world; but they seek not the welfare of Zion.
30. Behold, the Lord hath forbidden this thing; wherefore, the Lord God hath given a commandment that all men should have charity, which charity is love. And except they should have charity they were nothing.

On a side note, Caleb is an AMAZING reader. I cant even believe how he can sound out every word so quickly...he reads so smoothly and only came across one word that he pronounced incorrectly! I am so happy that he loves to read!

Jennie's Super Party

2011-09-23T20:40:00.003-04:00

today.

2011-09-13T18:50:00.003-04:00

I saw a hummingbird. I put the feeder up 4 months ago. Looked almost daily. Today was my first sighting. Happy.

Gracie wore white capris with a white ruffled shirt and a sparkly head band. If you have ever seen a little girl in all white, you know why this is note worthy :)

Was forgiven by a friend (hopefully).

Got to read some more of a book I’m loving.

Was able to be home to get Grace off the bus.

Texted with a friend that makes me smile. 10 minutes is better than none. :)

Got a sweet kiss from Caleb. He loves me.

Have a clean kitchen.

2011-04-25T07:52:00.003-04:00

caleb came into bed and snuggled with me this morning. we started talking and the topic lead to telling the truth. i explained to him that its important to tell the truth all the time so that when he tells me something i will know that i can believe him. caleb responded by telling me to pray about it. that when he tells me something and i dont know if its truen i should ask heavenly father is caleb telling the truth.then the spirit would let me know if he is telling the truth or not.

i just though this was so beautiful. a lot of times in moments like this i get excited that something i have specifically taught him has stuck. in this case there was no specific lesson. and i couldnt be more happy that caleb knows this truth.

fyi my phone isnt allowing me to use any capitol or puncuation besides periods. sorry...smiley face.

Daner

2011-04-10T22:50:00.002-04:00

prayer is an amazing thing. miracles do happen.

www.daneconquerscancer.blogspot.com

while in the kitchen

2011-03-15T17:28:00.002-04:00

If I had to make a short list of things I am grateful for, my sister would certainly be on it. However, that's not the point of this post...but it will come back around to that.

Today I made a meal that I love. It just happens to take a couple (or a few!) hours to make. While I was spending that time in the kitchen, my mind seemed to be overwhelmed with some thoughts.

Heavenly Father was aware of me, before I was aware of Him.

I have many many examples of this, but one in specific has stood out today.

My sister and I were both blessed with amazing college roomates. When I say amazing, what I really mean is AH-MAZ-ING. We were both blessed with someone who supported us, helped us to grow, helped to shape our identity, make us who we now are, gave our lives stability, and will be life long friends.

I've tried to write an explanation of why I feel this way, but my words just don't do it justice. so for now, I will simply record that fact: Heavenly Father blessed us with who we needed at that time in our lives. And while I am understandably closer to my roommate then Gena is (and vise-versa), I know that we love each others roommates dearly.

Have you ever loved someone, simply because of something you know about them? Because of something they have done for someone you love? I am so grateful for Gena's roommate. I love her dearly, simply because of who she has been and is in my sisters life. You can't always be there 100% for the people you love, but you can be grateful for others that you know are there at times that you aren't. Thank you, Leslie. I do love you!! :) And I love that I know that because my sister loves me so much, she feels the same about Ashley.

Someday, our roommates will have to meet. And the awesome thing is that I know that they will love eachother. Not only because they are both awesome girls, but because they love us.

Some Familiy Pics

2010-12-02T13:41:00.005-05:00

I havent posted in forever! I am getting more and more sick of/frustrated with face book, and need to just come back to blogging! For now, here are some pics we had taken the other week...

{Heavenly Father is funny}

2010-03-30T22:57:00.003-04:00

Caleb loves to snuggle in the mornings. He used to come in every day and snuggle with me for like 30 minutes. With getting ready for school and all that fun stuff we have going on now, it doesn't happen as much. However, yesterday morning it did. Caleb sleepily stumbled in the room and climbed in bed with me. After a few minutes of waking up, he told me "Heavenly Father is funny". I asked him why and he told me "Heavenly Father and Jesus put dreams on my ceiling while I sleep. Sometimes I'm even in them. Thats silly." I love my son so so much. so much. He is an absolute angel. Lately, he loves to tell me I'm silly. He uses the word ridiculous whenever he can. Although he says fridiculious :) He loves his Gracie so much and {in between pushing her around} he takes care of her and wants her to be happy. If she wants something of his and I tell her "Gracie, thats Caleb's, you need to find your own toy" he cuts in with "she can have it mommy." I love my kids.

s.p.r.i.n.g.

2010-03-21T13:42:00.004-04:00

We are in HEAVEN with the beautiful weather. I think the snow is officially gone {there was still some at the kids preschool under some big trees!}. The kids are loving being outside with us :)

Star Wars is the game of choice these days!

Caleb running to my rescue when Daddy took me hostage!

Gracie loves loves loves her Papa, and loves to help him!

{my boy}

2010-03-10T21:52:00.001-05:00

{my girl}

2010-03-10T21:52:00.000-05:00

{bath time}

2010-03-10T21:50:00.000-05:00

{february}

2010-03-10T21:46:00.000-05:00

Long, Cold, White Winter.

ready to see their Valentines presents :)

The kids build forts almost daily :)

{stuff}

2010-03-10T21:40:00.000-05:00

{learning chores}

2010-03-10T21:37:00.000-05:00

{Grace's Bday Party}

2010-03-10T21:32:00.000-05:00

{october river}

2010-03-10T21:28:00.000-05:00

{october hay}

2010-03-10T21:22:00.000-05:00

2010-03-10T21:05:00.001-05:00

I haven't posted since facebook took over my life.

And this makes me sad.

My goal is to change this.

Wish me luck.

Caleb's Halloween Party

2009-10-23T21:40:00.004-04:00

Caleb had a halloween party at a friends house tonight,

and a ton of F U N.

The ghost likes BINGO :)

random pics

2009-10-05T16:15:00.000-04:00

Just some random pics from the beautiful weekend! :)

this picture cracks me up! i have no idea what she could be thinking! but it looks frustrated with me! :)

being a goose!

cont

2009-10-05T16:13:00.000-04:00

{almost october}

2009-09-26T16:03:00.000-04:00

Between School and the fact that I post on facebook now, I have been very bad about blogging lately.

It's Saturday. and we just can't wait any longer to start decorating for Halloween.

This is Grace in Caleb's old costume.

Caleb found one of Daddy's masks and thought it was pretty funny.

My Kind of Woman!

2009-08-17T20:52:00.001-04:00

Everyone must go here.

She's not only got amazing recipes...but a great personality too!

2009-08-14T15:03:00.000-04:00

Grace spent her nap time chattin it up in her room...and changed her clothes like 100 times. I thought the outfit she finally settled on was cute! :) I mean, when aren't leg warmers perfect!?!? :)

And, of course, Caleb couldnt just sit by while Grace got her picture taken! :)

2009-08-13T20:36:00.000-04:00

Isn't this a great picture of Grace!?!?! She's smiling AND her eyes are open!!

Today is Pappa's Birthday! :)

Lake Morning

2009-08-12T08:17:00.000-04:00

Nancy

2009-08-06T09:56:00.002-04:00

I met my Grandfather's Sister for the first time yesterday. Nancy came in from Wisconsin. I was shocked at how much alike they look...and it made me realize how much my Mom looks like her Dad! It was really awesome to see her, and I hope we can see each other again soon!

Parkway

2009-08-06T09:41:00.003-04:00

The kids and i went up to the parkway yesterday to see something "beautiful"...as Caleb kept pointing out :) We brought the kites, but as you can see there was no wind and they never left the ground, though Grace did enjoy pulling one around! :)

{Notice the city below}

As if taking a good picture of Grace isn't hard enough, its dang near impossible when i'm taking it and in it!

Gracie took this picture :)

And Caleb took this one :)

Seeing Ash....off to England!

2009-08-06T09:32:00.002-04:00

Ashley, Jake and Avery are moving to England today, so i got up to MD to see her one last time to see her this week. Jake {her Jake} was kind enough to take some pictures of us. The only problem is that he doesn't take pictures too often {ash is the photographer after all} and spent more time making us laugh than taking a good pic. i think the best one of us is this first one...and its focused on the wall! :) I'm so excited for them to get to live in England for a bit, so sad to see them go, but so excited the next time I see her will be in England! :)

Henry turned the big 2!

2009-08-06T09:26:00.000-04:00

Safari Trip

2009-08-06T09:04:00.004-04:00

We took another trip to the natural bridge safari. Grace was a bit nervous...this was her favorite part: the baby goat behind a cage :)

The chatted :)

We stayed until closing, so the workers got Caleb to help with the feedings :)

Grace was either tucked into her seat, or on my lap...

2009-08-06T08:50:00.001-04:00

Caleb and Auntie Sam were in the bathroom getting ready, and Caleb came out looking like this :)

2009-08-06T08:47:00.000-04:00

Auntie Sam crashed on the couch, and Caleb was excited to snuggle in with her in the morning :)

{crazy man}

2009-07-18T20:25:00.000-04:00

There was a closet in the kitchen that was locked and we were curious about what was in it. One night while us girls were getting ready, we walked in on my dad with a butter knife taking the door off the hinges to solve the mystery..

...extra linens. At least it kept him occupied while we beautified! :)

2009-07-18T20:21:00.000-04:00

While in Hilton Head, I was able to catch up with a {very} old friend. Michael and I grew up together and spent many hours on the busy hanging out. It was so fun to see him, wow time has flown!

the windy un-cruise

2009-07-17T21:18:00.004-04:00

Sam, Caleb and I set out to see some dolphins on a local cruise tonight. We walked to the boat in beautiful clear weather and within 5 minutes were sitting on a very windy deck. After 30ish minutes on the boat, the captain announced that he would be unable to maneuver the boa out of the dock with wind that strong. At least we got fun pictures while trying to keep Caleb occupied during the wait :)

{icecream}

2009-07-17T21:12:00.001-04:00

these are some serious "week at the beach" eyes!

2009-07-17T13:58:00.000-04:00

2009-07-16T22:32:00.002-04:00

A break from the sand, and an afternoon at the pool instead...cause it was just way too humid for the beach! :)

Hilton Head part 2

2009-07-16T12:37:00.000-04:00

Hilton Head SC

2009-07-15T17:44:00.002-04:00

Samantha listening to tunes
Caleb jumping on his pile

The best picture i got with Caleb at the fireworks :(

My Gracie is getting so big!

Sam and me waiting in the car...

Caleb burried! :)

First Cut

2009-07-10T22:07:00.003-04:00

Gracie got her first haircut today.

As always, the pictures are out of order...

After

Grail kept having to hold her head still with his chin :)

Auntie Sam and Henry

before

{baptized}

2009-07-08T14:33:00.002-04:00

Caleb has been to a few baptisms lately and learned about it in his class at church...so he's been practicing. I often hear Caleb say "Grace, lay back. I'm going to baptize you" during bath time.

Caleb is sitting behind me eating graham crackers and milk right now and he just told me "Mom, this cracker is getting baptized" as he dunked it in the milk :)

4th

2009-07-05T14:52:00.005-04:00

I love the 4th of July!

{Gracie and Caleb fight over these safety gladsses! and grace is wearing them upside down!}

The one time Titi made a funny face, I wasn't! Maybe she's turning over a new leaf!?!? :)

we didnt have many family pictures to choose from..the kids wanted to play!

{Grace's first reaction to sparklers!}

2009-07-05T14:46:00.002-04:00

Caleb has started to ask me to take pictures of him sometimes now.

This is the kids, 5 minutes after they woke up...Caleb requested a photo shoot :)

This is Gracie, on an 95 degree day! Her and Caleb were playing outside in the water and she decided she was cold. When I finally made her take it off she looked like a wet rat with a bright red face!

2009-07-05T14:43:00.001-04:00

We love Elder Simmons :)

funny stuff

2009-07-01T15:04:00.003-04:00

I know some funny people.

An email was sent out today reminding everyone to do their "BSE" {it's a woman thing...if you don't know, don't worry}. In response someone {not sure if they would want me to give public credit!} said... "I tried to do my BSE but I could not find my B's--they are now negative A's or something". For obvious reasons, I got quite a laugh... hope you did too!

{memory lane}

2009-07-01T12:56:00.005-04:00

Maybe it was making a photo book of the last year...but I felt like taking a walk :)

{I swear blogger uploads my pictures in a different order every time...or I'm just not smart enough to figure it out! So they're are out of order, but at least here :)}

{this picture was taken after the one below, to prove she's alive :)}

{can you see her face and how much she is loving it!? Hilton Head should be calmer...in 2 weeks!}

Annual Kansas road trip.

Kohr's Bros Baby!

fishing at the lake {grace in borrowed boys clothes...thanks again Ashley! :)}

I love her hair in this picture...she's getting her fist haircut ever next week {besides bangs}!

The kids love when Daddy brings home turtles!

Last 4th

Tutu...when he was still weirded out by the kisses... you've come a long way in a year mike! :)

who knows...but it looks fun :)

Caleb's first day of preschool.

{daily gem}

2009-06-11T15:10:00.004-04:00

Today, the gem comes from Stephanie.

She is one of the most beautiful people I know {know in the internet way} :)

Whenever I am privileged to read her testimony, my heart seems to swell in my body.

{and my eyes swell with tears.}

Thank You for sharing You with Us, Stephanie!

We Love You.

sticks

2009-06-09T20:10:00.000-04:00

Caleb loves to help pick up {collect} sticks from the yard! After laying them all out and counting them {27}, he insisted I take a picture. Well, actually about 20 pictures...but I'll just post one :)

{green}

2009-06-08T16:04:00.001-04:00

I really enjoy green. really. Here are a couple things that I think are pretty right now...

{iris "sprouts"...the flowers are missing for some off-reason this year...late freezes?}

{cucumber bloom}

2009-06-08T15:57:00.000-04:00

Caleb and I were playing outside this afternoon and he was being very lovey and asked me if I could get the camera so we could take a picture. Which led to more pictures, and more pictures...

Ropers Here!! :)

2009-05-27T21:10:00.000-04:00

Grandpa Steve and Grandma Cindy have been out for a great visit... but have to leave tomorrow and I just realized we didnt get any pictures!

2009-05-16T12:01:00.000-04:00

The kids were playing dress up and i just thought it was too cute to not take a picture :)

yard sale find!

2009-05-16T11:10:00.000-04:00

I love yard sales. I got this box FULL of train pieces, all Thomas or brio, for $25.

and now i know where i get my "playing" skills from. Papa keeps moving the kids away so they dint mess up his track :) I'm gonna have to hide it so Papa doesn't sneak out of bed to play with it at night :)

"Mom, will you crack me?"

2009-05-14T15:07:00.002-04:00

Caleb came to me with, "Mom, will you crack me?" When I asked him to explain he said "crack my back". I asked him if he wanted me to scratch his back, which is what he normally asks for, but he told me again, "no, crack my back"...and began to show me a clawed-fist and to hit it on his back. I did as he instructed me, making my fingers into claws and lightly hitting it against his back. He gave me a simple, "Thanks for cracking me up" and walked away. I think I'm the one cracked up! :)

Raising Heavenly Father's Children

2009-04-30T10:20:00.000-04:00

"Pray, study, and teach the gospel. Pray deeply about your children and about your role as a mother. Parents can offer a unique and wonderful kind of prayer because they are praying to the Eternal Parent of us all. There is great power in a prayer that essentially says, 'We are steward-parents over Thy children, Father; please help us to raise them as thou wouldst want them raised.' "
M. Russell Ballard, "Daughters of God," Ensign, May 2008, 110

{well learned}

2009-04-29T12:17:00.001-04:00

Papa is big on sunscreen, and has obviously taught Gracie well...

While she was supposed to be napping...

She was instead "lathering up"

Caleb thought it was pretty funny.

Grace sure knows how to make herself look good! ;)

{more Avery}

2009-04-23T14:02:00.001-04:00

Testing Our Limits

2009-04-20T14:35:00.002-04:00

I get "Daily Gems" sent to my email each day, from LDS.org
Today's was just perfect for me...and couldn't have come at a better time.
So I thought I would share:

"[The] testing of our limits...is made necessary by God's plan to qualify His children to live with Him again forever. Heavenly Father loves His children. He offered us eternal life, to live with Him again in families and in glory forever. To qualify us to receive that gift, He gave us a mortal body, the opportunity to be tempted to sin, and a way to be cleansed from that sin and to rise in the First Resurrection. He gave us His Beloved Son, Jehovah, as our Savior to make that possible. The Savior was born in mortal life, was tempted but never sinned, and then in Gethsemane and on Golgotha paid the price of our sins so that we could be cleansed. The purifying can come only to those who have faith enough in Jesus Christ to repent of sin, be cleansed through the ordinance of baptism, and make and keep covenants to obey all His commandments. And there was to be a fierce enemy of our souls, Lucifer, who would with his legions relentlessly try to capture every child of God to keep him or her from having the joy of eternal life."

Henry B. Eyring, "O Ye That Embark," Ensign, Nov. 2008, 57

I just think it's awesome to be reminded of what we are really doing here on this earth. of what's important. and really, what else matters? what is more important than this??

{Avery Grace}

2009-04-19T18:46:00.002-04:00

I've been waiting for my exciting announcement, till I had pictures to accompany it...

Welcome Avery Grace!

Jacob and Ashley had their beautiful baby girl!

{on Caleb's Birthday, with the same midwife that delivered Caleb :)}

I'm not sure if I've ever seen a Dad so head-over-heals for his daughter as fast as Jake was for Avery. They are so adorable together! You're a wonderful Dad, Jake! :)

I was able to go visit a couple days after she was born...what a treat! :)

Avery is so peaceful and snugly! I'm not baby-hungry...but could have easily taken her home with me! seriously so snugly. and peaceful. seriously :)

Thanks for all the snuggles, Avery! Can't wait to see you again!

And a huge Congrats to Mommy {and Daddy} who have waited very long for their little miracle to come... what a beautiful family.

{bathtime}

2009-04-19T18:34:00.000-04:00

Can't you tell Annie is loving her bath!?!

{easter}

2009-04-19T18:28:00.000-04:00

2009-04-19T18:25:00.000-04:00

Someone needs to explain to Henry that it's really not that bad! :)

Gracie looking...you got it...adorable! :)

One of Many

2009-04-19T18:22:00.000-04:00

Caleb turned FOUR years old on April 11th!!!
We are officially done with the celebrations, after over a week of them! :)

Caleb opening presents from Grandma Karla

and Henry

and Grandma Cindy/G-pa Steve and Uncle Tima

and just a funny of Gracie :)

2009-03-28T20:57:00.000-04:00

Grace loves to be just like Caleb. She even throws like him, and at the same time...

and finishes off the throw in the same way.

2009-03-28T20:55:00.000-04:00

Caleb is getting so big! He has been dressing himself a lot lately. without me telling him too. this was what he came out wearing today. black t-shirt with a black and red jersey over it. black {church} pants. and his tenis shoes that have the most black. sounds like an outfit I would wear...maybe he's catching onto my love for black clothes :)
and the pose? not sure. it's his new thing if i tell him to smile for the camera.

This picture is about 8 hours later. same pose. messy face.

I wanted to get his messy hands in the picture, so i told him to hold them up...TOO cute {he's looking at his hands}! :)

This is his face after eating one of the See's Chocolate suckers. it looks much cleaner in the picture than it did in person!

{happy}

2009-03-28T20:47:00.000-04:00

my kids hold hands.
it's awesome.

The Blessings of the Temple

2009-03-24T16:11:00.001-04:00

{beauty}

2009-03-24T13:11:00.002-04:00

i'm in love with http://nieniedialogues.blogspot.com/ . I don' know what words to put with the feelings i have for the entire situation. It's very mixed emotions. maybe: faith, love, reality, hope, optimism, eternal, sisters, family, enduring...beauty...
Todays really got me. I need to buy more tissues.

I generally get frustrated with the "if you think your life is bad, look at someone else who has it worse" idea. We are each given what we can handle. It isn't a comparison. I get the "count your blessings" idea...but think it could be said in a better way. What you're going through might seem like the worse possible to you, and thats valid. But the real beauty is knowing that there is greater purpose in life than what we can see at any given moment. Heavenly Father has a beautiful, loving plan for us.

If you want something inspiring in your life...follow her story.

{special treat}

2009-03-24T13:04:00.000-04:00

Ever been having one of those days? or weeks? months? years...
Today I came home to the perfect surprise on my doorstep, from one of my awesome friends!

I hope if you're having one of those days, you have someone to brighten your day too!

{please excuse the picture...my nikon decided not to work, again. So this was taken with my phone...}

{rewind}

2009-03-13T20:08:00.004-04:00

I'm going through the pictures on my computer, and these ones made me smile.

Penelope Loomis
and the rest are my sister.

Cilantro takes the cake!

2009-03-04T17:31:00.003-05:00

Ok, so cilantro and cake have nothing to do with each other {or shouldnt},
but you know what i mean... it's good.
As I have said, I love Cook's Country. I recently got their Fast & Fresh book.

Yes, that's right... fast and fresh!

The Lettuce Wraps i posted are from this book.

Now introducing Beef Taco Bake...

20 oz Ro-Tel tomatoes*, drained, 1/2C juice reserved

1 (16oz) can refried beans

1Tablespoon hot sauce {i used less cause of kids}

1/4 fresh chopped cilantro

3 Cups shredded mexican cheese blend

1 1/2 lbs ground beef {i used closer to 1 lb}

1 (1.25oz) packet taco seasoning mix

12 taco shells

3 scallions {i didnt use these}

1. Adjust oven rack to upper-middle position and heat oven to 475 degrees. Combine half of tomatoes, beans, hot sauce, and cilantro in bowl. Spread evenly in 13 by 9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup cheese.

2. Cook beef in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Pour off fat, then stir in taco seasoning, remaining tomatoes, and reserved tomato juice. Simmer over medium-low heat until thickened and nearly dry, 5 to 7 minutes.

3. Spoon 1 tablespoon cheese into each taco shell and top with beef mixture. Arrange tacos upright in bean mixture, cover with foil, and bake until bubbling, about 10 minutes. Remove foil, top with remaining cheese, and bake until cheese is melted, about 6 minutes. Sprinkle with scallions. Serve.

*If you can't find Ro-Tel tomatoes, substitute one 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes and one 4-ounce can chopped green chiles.

the bean/cilantro mix is so yummy! it is a bit weird to me that you have to scoop it up once you pick your taco up...maybe next time i'll just put the bean mixture in the taco? but it's worth playing around...it's good.

Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps

2009-03-02T15:01:00.004-05:00

Another easy and yummy recipe.

This recipe says it serves 4.

I doubled it, fed 3 adults and 2 kids and had leftovers for lunch, twice.

1head iceberg lettuce
3tablespoons hoisin sauce
2tablespoons soy sauce
2tablespoons water
5cloves garlic , minced
2teaspoons grated fresh ginger
2teaspoons peanut oil or vegetable oil, plus 2 additional tablespoons
1pound ground chicken
Table salt and ground black pepper
1red bell pepper , diced
1(8-ounce) can water chestnuts , drained and chopped fine
5scallions , chopped

1. Remove 8 large, bowl-shaped leaves from head of lettuce; reserve remaining lettuce for another use. Whisk hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and water together in measuring cup. Combine garlic, ginger, and 2 teaspoons oil in small bowl.

2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until just smoking. Cook chicken, stirring to break up clumps, until just cooked through, about 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and transfer to bowl.

3. Add remaining tablespoon oil to skillet and heat until just smoking. Add bell pepper, water chestnuts, and scallions and cook until peppers soften, about 3 minutes. Clear center of skillet, add garlic mixture, and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add chicken and sauce and stir until thickened, about 30 seconds. Spoon mixture into lettuce leaves and serve.

*{Tips}

*To cook the minced garlic and ginger without the risk of burning, mix the two together with a little oil and quickly cook them in the center of the skillet, by themselves, before stirring them into the other ingredients.

*Cook the chicken in a smoking-hot skillet so that it cooks through without drying out.

2009-02-27T19:23:00.005-05:00

I got to go see Ashley this week :) She is due next month, the day before Caleb's birthday :)

Of Course, Ashley gifted me with some more beautiful pictures.

Gracie is getting so big and beautiful.

A million "Thank You"s, Ashley!

2009-02-27T19:23:00.000-05:00

{Ang's Wedding}

2009-02-21T18:37:00.002-05:00

2009-02-21T14:34:00.003-05:00

Caleb and I have had a morning all to ourselves.

Papa and Gracie are at Titi's house.

Daddy is working { :( }

We are having fun.

We need fun. Fun is G O O D.

2009-02-18T15:54:00.002-05:00

Elder M. Russell Ballard said: 'Clear declaration of truth makes a difference in people's lives. That is what changes hearts' (Ensign, Nov. 2004, 41)

The first testimony that was shared with me was by a family friend. One night, after a long talk, she simply said to me "You know Emily, I don't know how you feel because I have never been in your shoes. But your Savior does know. Christ has felt what you feel and He is there for you."

That was it. It was truly that simple.

I had no religion in my life at this time. I knew the basic idea that Christ was someone in the Bible that died on a cross, but little else. And my friend knew this. But she didn't say to me "you know Emily, I believe....", she simply said what she knew...and she said it as fact because she knew it was.

So often, I find myself saying "well, I believe...", because I don't want to offend someone. But when I read this daily gem by Elder Ballard it really stood out to me.

My friend told me with loving boldness what was true. What she knew was fact... and I don't think that the Spirit would of had the opportunity to testify to me as it did if she hadn't said it as a truth she knew, if she had been wishy-washy.

That's my thought, and I'm stickin' to it :)

2009-02-18T10:25:00.001-05:00

I am EXCITED.

I have been watching for this suit to go on sale, and today was my day!

Won't Grace look cute!

2009-02-18T10:13:00.001-05:00

The Lord has said to us: 'Therefore, fear not, little flock; do good; let earth and hell combine against you, for if ye are built upon my rock, they cannot prevail' (D&C 6:34, 36).

{snow day...belated}

2009-02-14T15:41:00.000-05:00

We had a great snow day the other day {right after a 60 degree day and followed by a 65 degree one!} i just realized while posting new stuff that i never posted our snow pics...

our first snowman of the day...or is it a snow caterpillar??

and our final one!
like i said, the next few days were in the upper 60's...and the snowman took 3 full days to melt! he was thick! :)

{sleeping beauty}

2009-02-14T15:34:00.000-05:00

You know, there are some things that pictures just can't do justice to. Ever been on the parkway, say at 20 minute cliff, and felt that amazing beauty? no picture can do it justice. The same goes for sleeping kids. No picture can capture that fluttery feeling in my heart when i see my kids sleeping peacefully.

but there is no harm in taking pictures anyways, right?! :)
{this picture actually captured a rarity...Gracie 99% of the time is hugging may while sleeping...somehow may ended up behind her during this nap?}

{vday}

2009-02-14T15:28:00.000-05:00

Sadly, my camera had a mind of it's own this morning and i didn't get any pictures of the kids with their gifts. It did decide to work later, so I took some pics of my surprise for the kids.

When I was roommates with Ashley, she hung a ton of hanging hearts from the ceiling over my head while i was sleeping...and i woke up to lots of love :) As valentines day neared this year i kept thinking back on that and how much it meant to me {i still have the hearts stored in a box}. I decided i want to do something special for the kid to wake up to on valentines day. So i started cutting, and cutting...until i had more hearts than i could count. Once i put the kids to bed i started hanging them all over the house, at the kids eye level. Once they had been asleep for a while i went in their room and hung them in there too {Gracie actually woke up the first time i was in the room hanging them...i just said "goodnight" and walked out and waited about 30 more minutes to try again}.

{hall}

{Caleb's bed}

{Gracie's bed}

{the door inside}

Having to wait up to hang the hearts put me to bed late, so i wasn't even up to see the kids reaction :(
it makes me happy to see them hung all over the house though :)

2009-02-11T18:32:00.000-05:00

Caleb just being silly wearing my boots...

and a welcome to Miss Anna Banana!

Titi, Tutu and Henry have done lots of researching and looking and finally got a new addition to the family...Annie {who i call Anna Banana}. She still lived with her breeder and is very excited to be in a home now! She was confused by kids at first {dont think she had ever seen little people} but is warming up very fast. She is already very protective of Henry and is always checking up on him and does things like wont come inside if henry isnt in yet. I'm definitely not ready for the step of getting a dog in my house, but i am very excited that Anna Banana is part of our {extended} family now! :)

{tutu}

2009-02-11T18:22:00.000-05:00

my lovely Jennie came over today and we made matching tutu's for our daughters!
Besides our backs hurting, it was so fun! :)
(doesnt Jennie look like a 20's flapper!?! )

2009-02-11T18:16:00.000-05:00

Titi is such a wonderful auntie in so many ways...
here is yet another :)
I love that grace "nurses" her babies when they are hungry!!

2009-02-03T15:09:00.002-05:00

I love this kid!

Brennen...of the Newton clan...has been kicking some booty on the court!

Thankfully, Denny has been keeping me up to date by sending me links.

http://www.theolathenews.com/103/story/333079.html

Brennen has a very special place in my heart. He used to be this little guy who started off hating me, then i moved up to "the not sporty Emily", and ended with a snuggle-bug buddy who would give me piggy backs everywhere. Where did that little guy go!?!?! :) Now he's just this big stud lightin' it up. Keep it up Bren!

{then and now}

2009-02-03T08:56:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was beautiful. warm. fresh.
It felt like spring had arrived.

Today is beautiful. crisp and sparkly.
That groundhog sure did see that shadow! :)

French Silk Chocolate Pie

2009-02-01T17:24:00.003-05:00

I thought that sense my kids and i enjoyed the pie so much, maybe you would too!

1C heavy whipping cream, chilled
3 large eggs
3/4 C sugar
2 Tablespoons water
8 oz bittersweet chocolate, melted and cooled
1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
8 Tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into 1/2 in pieces and softened
1 (9 inch) pie shell, baked and cooled.

1. Whip Cream. with electric mixer on medium-high speed, whip cream to stiff peaks, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer whipped cream to small bowl and refrigerate.

2. Beat Eggs. Combine eggs, sugar, and water in large metal bowl set over medium saucepan filled with 1/2 inch barley simmering water (dont let bowl touch water). With electric mixer on medium speed, beat until egg mixture is thickened and registers 160 degrees, 7 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat and continue to beat egg mixture until fluffy and cooled to room temperature, about 8 minutes.

3. Beat, Fold, Cool. Add chocolate and vanilla to cool egg mixture and beat until incorporated. Beat in butter, a few peices at a time, until well combined. using spatula, fold in whipped cream until no white streaks remain. Scrape filling into pie shell and refrigerate until set, atleast 3 hours and up to 24. Serve.

{sneaky theifs}

2009-02-01T17:13:00.002-05:00

Today i was feeling a bit less than perky. And what makes a less than perky person feel...perky?

Chocolate.

So i rummaged through my recipes for French Chocolate Silk Pie.

And 30 minutes later it was in the fridge, working hard on setting for me.

I wasnt wanting to wait the 4 hours till it was set though, so i put some of the filling into a glass pyrex dish, and planned on eating it {much} sooner.

i left the kitchen.

There is where my problem happened.

I left the room.

Caleb came into the bedroom asking for something, covered in chololate! followed by Grace.

Wasn't it nice of them to put the dish back where it went??

California, this and that...

2009-01-31T20:47:00.008-05:00

These are really not in any order, but at least they are here! :)

Uncle Tima playing with Gracie at Angel's wedding reception...under the cake table! :) we love Uncle Tima!
Dave Ward was Jakes young mens president, and still one of our very favorite people!

At the reception

Cousin Briana

Cousin Leilani

This little girl and Caleb were so cute together. she chased him and he ran...the whole reception! at one point she actually had him slow dancing {real slow dancing!} ...but then he ran!

Jake's Sisters

Grace and Breezy

Caleb and i spent a day at disney, just the two of us. We had all already been as a family the week before, but caleb and i wanted to go again, so grandma watched {sick} grace and caleb and i had a blast together!

Caleb really wanted to take a pic with mr incredible, but then got shy!

3-D movie

Mrs. incredible!

We had a birthday party for Grace in St George. This is her opening her PINK phone from her auntie charity and cousins...she's excited!

overlooking St George, one of my favorite places there.

mt meadow massacre site {sp?}

Downtown Disney, build-a-bear

caleb was supposed to be sleeping, but thought that if he hid inside the pillowcase i wouldnt see him walk by. the only problem is that he couldnt see where he was going and ended up in the bathroom instead of the living room. it was so funny!

Disney as a family {but im taking the picture, duhh}

Visiting with Santa, we bribed Grace with the candy cane, and that is all she cared about!

Uncle Josh and Caleb love to wrestle!

Christmas morning.

by the looks of daddy, caleb and grace...i'm glad i was taking the pictures and not in one! :)

2009-01-31T20:20:00.000-05:00

Gracie the hobo!

They were playing some game they made up :)

{painting}

2009-01-31T20:18:00.000-05:00

2009-01-31T20:14:00.000-05:00

this was Caleb saying "i am looking, Mom" when i was asking him to look at the camera! i have like 10 pictures just like this! :)