Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Summer Doldrums

Well....Taylor leaves next Monday to go to Guatemala! He's done well at the CCM/MTC! I believe his Spanish is coming along nicely.

The weather has been H O T! I haven't enjoyed the summer as much because of the heat!

I've been able to see all of my grandchildren at some point this summer and some more than others. It's been nice. I wish I could get away to visit my children/grandchildren.

Cameron is living with me now and he has been obedient and helping me out with some rent!

I've been able to visit my mom a little more and spend some quality time with her.


I've been looking at positive affirmations and I really like this one. I hope everyone has a great day!


Friday, June 14, 2013

In the Spotlight!

June 13, 2013, was not only the 54th anniversary of my birth but also Hailie Rose's first dance recital! She's been taking a dance class and enjoying it very much. Now comes the finale!

Here she is after Mom finished with her make-up. She seems up to the challenge.

I met Adam at Murray High School. We went into the auditorium and watched about 30 short dances by all ages of girls and even some boys. Now comes the moment of truth. Hailie walked out with 3 other little girls in the cutest ladybug costumes. Then her hands come up and cover her eyes! Once she put her hands down but shut her eyes! Too soon the dance is over and she runs off the stage without having done one dance movement. :(

Here she is right after. She said,"There was too much people!"

Adam admitted his children tend to be shy.

















This one is a little better. You've got to give Hailie credit for trying and because she's so cute, we don't really care!  Good job, Honey!

Thursday, June 13, 2013

Letting Go...

Have to say that June 12, 2013 will go down in history as a day of mixed emotions! Dropping my son, Taylor, off at a curb has never been a wish of mine but in this case I was willing because of the reasons behind it.

From the beginning, receiving the mission call, going to the temple, buying all of the needed items, Taylor has been, as always, a trooper! Except for his suits, I think he purchased all of the things he took with him. His brother-in-law Ben, lent him the suitcases so that was very helpful!

I'm so glad that Taylor loves the temple and for a good friend, Michael McBride, in our ward, who took him 4 extra times to the temple before he left. Taylor wanted a man to go with him so they could sit together and he could help Taylor. My son was so happy!

It makes me so proud and humbles me that Taylor is such a mature and thoughtful young man! He was really ready to go!

Even though I couldn't give my son the perfect family life, he has adjusted well and proven to me and others how resilient he really is!

It was also very nice to spend time with my children. First David's family joined us for the temple experience and spent a few days with us. Then the rest of my children were available to share time last Sunday, the 9th. They traveled to be with us and that means so very much!

Taylor has wonderful siblings and I love them so much!

Taylor will do a great work in Guatemala and the whole of his life!

I LOVE YOU SON!

MOM

Friday, May 24, 2013

When it Rains It Pours!! -- But There is Always the Promise of a Rainbow!

I don't like to complain but these past few months have been terrible for me in the financial realm! First my car breaks down but thankfully after a new battery, fuel pump, fuel filter, alternator and sway bars, the real problem was solved by an amazing mechanic at Neils Pro Auto in Rose Park in Salt Lake City, Utah!!!

Then I lost my child support. I knew the day was coming and I was actively looking for more work and campaigning for a raise (which I received, although very small) but no evening work in sight. However, I promised that I would accept and try to do anything extra I could so I have worked a viewing and played the piano at a service this month. Every little bit helps.

Well, Saturday, my washer wouldn't spin the water out. I called a repairman but they couldn't come until today and guess what...DRUM ROLL PLEASE...the motor needs to be replaced at the tune of $280.00. The dryer needs a new bearing for $100.00. Ok---I'm finished with this!!! I have given up basic cable, put my car on liability only and am cutting back in every area I can without living on the street. I am getting close to refinancing my condo for a lower interest rate and payment.

I guess the silver lining (which I am determined to see) is that my brother Frank can get me a GREAT deal on a set of new stackables and (this is a great wish) I hope that when the machines finish their cycles, they will sing a tune like Adam and Jessica's new machines instead of making an annoying BUZZ!

I am continually grateful for all that I have. Taylor has done some recent repairs in our house with his own money and I am very grateful for him and his awareness of the needs I face and my inability to take care of them myself. What a great Kid! I'm also grateful that Adam and Jessica are allowing me to use their washer and dryer until my new ones arrive. Can't wait to hear that little song tonight!!! You know where I'll be!

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Baby #2 - Grandchild #7

It's always amazing when you see these photos and realize this baby is only an inch long. Isn't is wonderful? This child is already loved and anticipated. David and Ashley will welcome this new one in mid-December. Luke will be a wonderful big brother! I'm so happy for them (and the rest of us) who will get to love and nurture this baby.

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Car Update

Car fixed. Neils Pro Auto in Rose Park---the best! They listened to me!

Friday, May 3, 2013

Challenges

Once again I find myself in an uphill battle to provide financially for my needs. I am exercising faith and working to find more resources and am willing to do the things that I need to that this blessing will come to pass. My life has not been easy and I know I have much yet to learn and I will learn it, if it is the end of me.

I must say that I am blessed immensely. I am counting my blessings all the time because they help me remember that my Heavenly Father has not forgotten me. My life has not been what I had hoped in the way of family. I had hoped to marry and stay married to same man all of my life and we would grow old together, loving our children and grandchildren. But that has not been my lot. However, because I was married I do have 7 wonderful children and they have given and continue to give me much joy. I am amazed at their abilities, talents confidence in themselves. They are moving forward by leaps and bounds and I am so humbled to be their mother. I have 6 beautiful grandchildren that heal my wounds as I kiss and hug them and watch them grow. I love hearing the sweet things they say. I love them so much.

I have a beautiful mother who reminds me that I can do things that challenge me. She gives me encouragement even in the face of her own struggles. I am so appreciative of her and the gift of her life in my life. She is truly a wonderful woman.

I have dear brothers and sisters who continue to support me with their prayers and faith. They have all struggled but seem to pick themselves up each time and go forward. I am especially grateful for Frank. I know that I can call him anytime and he will take the time to listen and make me laugh. I am so grateful for him.

I never thought I would admit to this, but I am thankful for my calling to lead the choir. I have been blessed so many times to choose the appropriate song for the day and have learned to love these dear, faithful choir members and my wonderful organist, Yvonne Halliday. It is not easy for me to fulfill this calling but I am very grateful for this opportunity to learn and to stretch myself.

I have not been fortunate to always work in the same company. I loved FranklinCovey and worked there for 7 years before layoffs took place. I don't know why I was chosen as one of those who was let go but ever since then it has been difficult to make ends meet. I don't have a lot of worldly goods but I can make better use of them and now, being forced to do it, I will. But I have faith that the Lord has a plan for me and I must go into the darkness to find what it is that I should be doing. I know He is watching over me.

I am thankful for the scriptures and the words of living prophets. I need to rely more on them and trust them.

I am thankful for temples. I need to go more often and learn more there.

I don't know why but it always seems that difficult struggles come in groups. They just can't seem to come one by one. I am hopeful that today the latest mechanic can resolve the issue with my car so I can drive it without worrying that it will die on me. I cannot buy a new car. I must have it in working order and the repairs must not cost very much. I know Heavenly Father will bless me.

I've lost a significant portion of my income and my second job is now becoming sporatic so I am seeking other avenues of financial support. I know the Lord hears my cries and will answer my prayers. I pray I can have the faith to do the things He requires of me.

I am not an educated person but I am willing to work for the things that I must have to survive. I pray that I will be strong enough to do them.






Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Accentuate the Positive - Elminate the Negative

"Don't be gloomy. Do not dwell on unkind things. Stop seeking out the storms and enjoy more fully the sunlight. Even if you are not happy, put a smile onyour face. 'Accentuate the positive.' Look a little deeper for the good. GO forward in life with a twinkle in your eye and a smile on your face, with great and strong purpose in your heart. Lovelife."  --Gordon B. Hinckley

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Birthday Boys

I neglected to recognize three of my sons and their birthdays! Love them so much!


Happy Birthday to Cameron, Andrew and David!

Monday, March 18, 2013

Planes, Trains and Automobilies

What is the deal with my car? I had 3 removals last night (luckily 2 were at the same time) and on the short drive from my home to the mortuary my car decided it may or may not work. Thankfully, I made it safely home during the night. This morning, however, was a different story. I got 2 blocks from home and it died.

The wonderful thing, if there is one in this story, is that I called a funeral director who lives nearby and he picked me up and took me to our 9th East office. Then I called one of our part-time staffers who works as a mechanic during the week and he gave me the name of their towing service and I told him I thought it was the alternator. He will take good care of me.

Even though life brings it's share of surprises, I'm grateful for friends and acquaintances who are at the ready. The Lord is truly merciful.

Friday, March 1, 2013

Happy 19th Birthday Taylor



This isn't my FAVORITE pic of Taylor but it seems appropriate today. (He got this taken at the post office for his passport.) Not long from now, Taylor will be leaving, really leaving the nest for his mission. I know this because of my experience and being part of David and Adam's mission experience. When we got home, we had been away long enough to know our minds and know that we could take care of ourselves. This will be the same for Taylor. He will leave a young man and return a man. It is the way it should be.

I can't say that this doesn't tug at my heartstrings just a bit because I know that tearing those apron strings is a literal feeling. That said, I also know from experience that the choices Taylor has made so far in his life have been good, solid ones; choices that will carry him through his whole life if he stays on this path and he will be truly happy. So I am happy for him. I know I will continue to a part of his life the rest of my life as I am with my other children.

So HAPPY BIRTHDAY son! This is truly a day to celebrate!  Love, Mom

Thursday, February 28, 2013

Happy Birthday Adam!

Today my son, Adam is 28 years old on February 28th. I'm so proud of this dear son. He works so hard at his job, college and being a great husband and father! Keep it up, son!



Friday, February 15, 2013

Retalhuleu, Guatemala

Taylor will be in the MTC in Guatemala on June 12, 2013! He received his call last night. He'd already left with Adam to go to his apartment to watch the kids while Adam & Jessica went out for Valentine's Day. So I got back into my car and drove over there. It was so exciting to see him open the envelope and read that he's going to Retalhuleu, Guatemala! We had Cheri on face time and David on speaker phone! I was So surprised! After some hugs from the babies I went home and scoped out the Internet looking for help on how to pronounce Retalhuleu, finding photos, etc. Here are some pics I found.



There's a lot to do. We have 4 months to accomplish it. First stop is the Post Office on Tuesday for the passport!  So proud of Taylor!

Monday, February 11, 2013

Taking Stock....Again

It seems I'm always revisiting how my life is going feeling that if I don't do this exercise I'm just going to wander where the wind blows. This is how I've been feeling since early Thursday morning when the stomach cramps and the horrible headache commenced. Yes, the dreaded flu visited me and still lingers if only by a thread. I had too much down time, too much time to think...not  always a good thing.

I'd been thinking about purchasing life insurance for some time. When I was married we had some term insurance on my then husband but never on me. (I did learn today that term insurance can skyrocket when you get older so don't get it. Get whole life. Premiums stay the same forever.) So today I finally purchased some from a friend of mine who I trust and have known for several years. That's a  start, I think. I've also got some ideas of how to supplement my income without ruining my health and I'm going to begin working on that as a mission plan for my future.

I feel blessed in my family. I have difficulty reading or hearing about "perfect" marriages. I don't think standing on my head or joining his religion would have saved mine and I would have betrayed my own heart in doing so--but it does make me sad to think that I wasn't enough. I know I'm not perfect but I'm willing to compromise on most things but not on the fundamentals. In the end people remind me that I have 7 amazing children, their spouses and my dear, sweet grandchildren. They are right in reminding me but there will always be that hole in my heart where I once loved with my whole being someone who I thought loved me. (I think the wambulance is coming!) I have to laugh at myself.

I don't feel right about persuing a man...on-line dating is frightening to say the least. Since I watched a woman in my ward chase after a man much younger than herself and in a relationship, I've seen how horrible that looks. I know in the "new world" it's supposed to be acceptable for women to hit on men but for me that's so desperate! So unless a great man shows some interest, I'm where I am moving forward on my own in my life.

Don't think I don't have plans because I do. They will sound like I'm hanging on the lives of my children but they are part of me.
  • Getting Taylor on his mission
  • Staying healthy!! So sick of being sick this winter!
  • Exercise, exercise, exercise!
  • Visiting Cheri and Daniel in Cali for Thanksgiving
  • Hanging out with my little peeps--the grandkids as often as I can
  • painting my house
  • Going to the temple more
  • etc etc etc
So much to do!

Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Moving on

Taylor finished all of his paperwork for his mission and then last night I received a call from our stake president indicating that we needed to send a photo to The Missionary Department with Taylor actually looking like a missionary. I thought this was quite funny since Taylor had been growing his hair out since before Christmas. So now it was time to look like a missionary. He was also supposed to wear a suitcoat, which he has never owned. Adam was nice enough to lend him one. While I was at work today, Taylor got a haircut and then Andrew took a few pictures of him dressed up like an Elder. Here is one of them.


Taylor is about to embark on a new road. I know he'll do a wonderful job as a missionary for our Heavenly Father! Love you, Taylor! Mom

Monday, January 28, 2013

Family Matters


January 26, 2013 I traveled to Twin Falls, Idaho with my mother and Cathy and Carlton. It was nice not to have to drive and to have such great conversation and laughs along the way. This photo was taken by Carlton following the session and before we went to Don and Debra's for a luncheon. Don Jr., is heading to the MTC on February 13, 2013 and then to the Nevada Las Vegas West Mission. He is very excited to move forward. I am so proud of him and happy that he wants to serve.

We were also able to catch up with Don, Debra, Michael and Bill's family. What a lovely day. The sun was even out!



Here is a darling photo of Ethan just before he went into surgery to remove the middle lobe of his right lung. He has cysts in all lobes of his lungs but the largest concentraion was in the lobe the surgeon removed. He had surgery on Friday, the 25th so I took the day off and played with Hailie, Natalie and Wyatt. They were so cute and good. It was a nice day (I hope) for them.

Now Ethan isn't as happy as before the surgery but he will heal quickly and he is doing well. We should know in a few weeks the results of the pathological tests on the cysts. I am hopeful all will be well. Taylor and Adam gave him a priesthood blessing Thursday night. Jessica's parents came and helped with the children over the weekend. I'll be taking a turn tonight while Adam is at work.

Family matters. We need to help one another if we are able and make these memories even though some things are harder to experience. Ethan and his siblings and hopefully his parents will feel of our love and support.

My mother asked me the other day if I remember spending a week at Primary Children's Hospital when I was 2 because I had put my right arm into the wringer of the washing machine. I told her no, but I was sorry for the trauma it caused her. She said when she had to leave me and go home, she just sobbed. Now I know how that feels. Parents give so much for their children. Let us always be appreciative of their love and sacrifice.