Unbelievable!!

Today I'm thankful for #1- Leaving early. I arranged with my principal to leave a little early so we didn't get stuck in traffic. I'm thankful that he'll allow me to go a bit early and make my time up over the week. 

#2- Modern technology. This afternoon I video chatted with Lilly for her birthday. I love that I get to see her even though she's hundreds of miles away. 

#3- This BYU fun. We love these games and I love watching it with these girls. It wasn't looking so great for us but then 5 minutes into the 3rd quarter they put in the back up quarterback and he turned the game around and we actually came back and won. I couldn't believe it and then the fans rushed the field which was ridiculous. I always think rushing the field is absurd especially against an opponent like Utah State. You would have thought we had won a national title. So funny. 

#4- Recording live TV. When we got home we re-watched some of the exciting plays of the game. I'm so weird. I watch the live game and then go home and re-watch what I just saw live. The great thing is I enjoy the game a lot more when I know how it's going to end and I'm happy with a result. 

Salmon and Something Interesting

Today I'm thankful for: #1 - Knowledge. I'm amazed at the knowledge I should have had before becoming a teacher. No one told me all the stuff I'd really have to deal with and know. Today one of my students lost a baby brother. Incredibly hard and I can't imagine what the sweet thing is going through. The lot fell to me to let my students know that she was gone and that they need to be sensitive to her feelings when she gets back. Ya, they didn't teach me those things in school. I'm also thankful for grief and the opportunity to grieve for those we love. I watched as my students were concerned for their friend and eager to do something that showed how much they love her. My room mom came in at the end of the day and the kids folded cranes to take to her. Really sweet.

#2- Chatting with Raegan. After work I chatted with Raegan and I'm so thankful to have her as my friend. I love that I have such a wonderful friend and teacher to discuss all things school and all things personally.

#3- Costco with Tricia. Tricia and I had to run over to Costco and we decided to grab some salmon for dinner. This might be my all time favorite meal. I love it and Tricia's dad's recipe is DELICIOUS!! Love it and it made me so happy for the rest of the evening.

#4- A little exotic fruit. Tricia brought us fruit home from her lunchroom. This was a little weird. Hot pink, with no taste and the texture of a kiwi. Interesting.

These Girls

Today I'm thankful for: #1- Parent volunteers. This year I have been blessed with a full classroom of 30 students. It's my biggest class in my teaching career. I wasn't so sure about how I'd get everything finished with the added work that comes with a few more students. Don't tell anyone but I think I have more time than I every have this year. I have a set of 6 parents who come in every week and help me in whatever I'd like them to do. They don't come sporadically and I'm not afraid to have them work with the students. Sometime you have to be careful that parents don't confuse them more than they help. But these parents are wonderful. I also have a few that come in every other week because that's what their schedule allows. Anyway, when I get behind on my grading these parents are happy to help. They correct and grade and do it like it's no big deal. -But it's a big deal to me. Today is my big volunteer day and I have four parents in my room throughout the day. I love having them in my room and I love how they make my job easier. I'll take 30 kids with great parents any day.

#2- The Temple. I love the temple. I love going and love when a temple work recognizes me. It feels good that some temple workers think I'm a familiar face at the temple.

#3- These girls I call friends. On my way home from the temple I stopped at the store and decided to make tacos for dinner. I visited with Tricia while I made them. I ate my taco while she was visiting teaching. Then Kerri and Deeds came home and ate one. We ate in shifts. But it was so nice to share a meal with each other and I was so happy for all of us to be home for the evening and just enjoy being with each other. These girls are wonderful and I love living with them. They are great examples to me.

A 3 Mile Run That Turned into 4

Today I'm thankful for: #1- My students.  Today when I asked one student about an assignment he said, "I've got really good news for you!" I replied with, "Or is it REALLY good news for you?" Implying that if it wasn't finished he was going to be in big trouble. (A little secret I don't think my students ever get in really big trouble. I usually give them another day. Life happens and sometimes assignments just don't get finished.) Anyway, my student said, "It's good news for both of us! My bio poem is completely typed up." It made me smile. I enjoy when they start to understand my personality and I enjoy getting to know theirs. Also, another favorite from the day was when we were walking over to P.E. after being at vehicle day. I had no idea what time it was so I asked a group of boys what time it was. To which one little guy said, "TIME for you to get a new watch!" followed by a big smile to me and to all his friends for such a great joke. Cracks me up! I smiled and said I don't need a new watch just a new battery. Yep! I've got a pretty great job.

#2- A quick visit. Tonight I stopped by and saw my dear friend Michelle really quickly. We haven't seen each other since June. Where did the summer go? I can't believe we hadn't seen each other in so long. We'll need to get together again soon and really catch up. I just love her and her little kids. So much fun and I'm always so excited that they're so excited to see me.

#3- A short run. Kerri and I went for a short run this evening. It was a bit late and we didn't want to go too far so we thought we'd do 3 miles. Well we felt like we ran forever and I thought I must be SO slow today. I'm usually slow but today it felt extra slow. When we got home Kerri clocked it and it was really just over 4 miles. That definitely made me feel much better about life.

#4- Strawberry Sundae Crunch. I've discovered a new favorite ice cream. It is just divine and I love it. It is especially delicious in milk. Now Kerri and I have two flavors we have to pick up when we're in Provo at the Creamery. Next time you're visiting me I'll let you have a taste. Pretty sure we'll have some in the freezer. Some things just need to be kept on hand!

Tiffany and Maurianne

Today I'm thankful that: #1- Only one day of the week is a Monday. I hate Mondays some weeks and this was one of those weeks. I was so glad it was over by the time I got home. I didn't feel really good and I was exhausted. I'm so glad everyday isn't Monday. 

#2- Service for home evening. For home evening we cleaned up a mile stretch of the Jordan River Parkway. I was thankful that today's activity was service because I needed to forget myself and do something good for someone else. Service is a miraculous thing. If you think your life is bad do a little service and you're feeling great. I love it. Tricia and I enjoyed walking the trail together and visiting. I'm also thankful for Tricia and the sweet friend she is to me. 

#3- Last week Maurianne e-mailed and invited me for ice cream. I met her and Tiffany at Red Mango to enjoy some delightful frozen yogurt. I never get sick of this place. I love it and could eat it way more than I do. It's a good thing I don't but it really is that good. I enjoyed visiting with these friends and finding out what has been going on in their lives. 

Two Helpings of Dessert

Today I'm thankful for: #1- The Ellisons. I know I'm thankful for Tricia's parents every Sunday but every Sunday the invite Kerri and I into their home and treat us like family so every Sunday I am thankful for them. I am thankful for their love and for giving me a sense of family when mine are so far away.

#2- 17 Miracles. Tricia bought the movie 17 Miracles and we watched it today. It is a movie on the miracles that took place during the Martin and Willie Handcart journey. When we got to the end we were all wiping tears away. It makes you really think about the blessings of our lives and the faith of these saints. It also makes me think about the wonderful miracles the Lord will bless our lives with if we have faith. He is a God of miracles and miracles happen everyday.

#3- I made chocolate cream dessert for us and after the movie we decided to help ourselves to a second helping. So good. Another think I love about Sundays - Yummy desserts.

Uplifted

Today I'm thankful for: #1 - An afternoon nap. I took a little nap this afternoon which is a rare treat. I don't usually nap on Saturdays but today I went a head and slept for about an hour.

#2- Haley. Kerri got tickets to go to the conference center to the Relief Society Broadcast but then she couldn't go because she had a wedding to go to. Tricia already had plans so Haley agreed to go with me. She's such a sweet friend and I've missed having her around as my roommate since she moved on to the better life of marriage. It was nice to catch up with her and how things are going in her life.

#3- President Utchdorf. I enjoyed and loved all the talks of the conference but President Utchdorf's talk was my favorite. Mostly because he reminded me that the Lord loves each one of us individually. He used the Forget Me Not flower and listed five things we should remember. One thing that really struck me was he talked about being careful not to miss out on the simple pleasures of life because we are focused and unsatisfied that we haven't gotten our "golden ticket" yet in life. He was referencing Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. He talked about a school teacher who over the years became bitter and mean because she never married. He commented on how sad it was that she could have be a positive influence in all the children's lives she taught but instead of enjoying those little things she was bitter she hadn't gotten her "golden ticket." This is good counsel and words of warning for me. Whatever the "golden ticket" in our lives is there are other smaller blessings that we can focus on. We need to remember to enjoy the candy bar even if it doesn't have a golden ticket. He also talked about being wise in the sacrifices that we make. That we should make good sacrifices that matter. It's true that at times we sacrifice time and effort in areas that don't matter. He ended with a beautiful testimony of the Lord's love for us as and individual and I could feel that love in my heart. It was a lovely meeting and I'm so thankful for the wonderful spirit it left me with.

Finally!

Today I'm thankful for: #1- Going to work for a couple hours. I hate tracking on because it means my break is over and I have to come back to reality. I am however always thankful for the few hours of getting ready for my kids to come back. I didn't stay long today but I'll be ready to see my little darlings on Monday. 

#2 - Brick Oven Pizza. Kerri and I were in Provo early because with regular rush hour traffic, a Friday night game, and construction the traffic was supposed to be horrible. We drove straight down and were glad we'd left early. This gave us plenty of time to eat dinner before heading over to the stadium. Pizza is my favorite food. I love it and I love the Brick Oven's pizza and their homemade root beer. We were waiting for our pizza to come to our table when Cosmo stopped by to give us high fives. We took another picture so that we have one of him in his jersey. It made us both smile. You have to love a Cosmo sighting. 

#3- Cheering at the game with friends. BYU played UCF and after two straight weeks of loses we were very happy with their 24-17 win. It wasn't the prettiest game but we'll take the win. Kara couldn't use her ticket this week so Maurianne came with us. It was fun to catch up with her and enjoy the game. 

Jimmer One Last Time

Today I'm thankful for: #1- Dinner with my parents and Kerri. Mom and dad came over to eat dinner before we went to the game and I made Balsamic Chicken. I love this recipe and it always is so yummy to me. Mom enjoyed it but dad loved it. 

#2- Kerri, Deeds, and I had tickets on the 7th row to watch Jimmer's All Star game. The ticket I got for mom and dad were way up they didn't care. The game was fun to watch it was different from the other games we've watched in the Marriott Center. There were a lot of tricks and fancy plays. Jimmer's team didn't win but it was a lot of fun. Mom and Dad said they thought it was really fun and I was happy that I was able to get tickets for them. 

#3- The Creamery. We decided to meet my mom and dad for a little ice cream. It was nice to sit and visit with my parents and enjoy ice cream. Love that BYU creamery!! There was a group of young kids who had bought a half gallon of vanilla ice cream and some root beer. They'd also bought glasses and a  package of spoons. We were laughing because the creamery has spoons that Kerri and I usually grab for free to eat our 1/2 gallon with on our drive home. Those poor college students could have saved themselves 2 dollars. 

At the Temple

Today I'm thankful for: #1- That I got to hang out with Nikkie and Zak for a couple extra hours this morning. I needed to get home at some point today but wasn't in a huge hurry. I left a little after 11. But was happy I had a few more hours to spend with my sweet friend.

#2 - Safe drive home. I'm always so thankful when my drive is uneventful.

#3 - An afternoon to wash and wax my car. It always takes me way to long for me to wax my car. But it really needed to be done before the weather really gets cold and and I get busy with work again. I love it when it's clean and all waxed. It makes me so happy!

#4 - Temple sealings. Our ward had a sealing assignment tonight and I was very excited to go. I love sealings and it helps bring into focus what I'm living and holding out for. I want to be sealed for time and all eternity in the house of the Lord. It is the only place that will bring me all the happiness and blessings I desire and I will only marry a man who can worthily take me there. Maurianne came with me and we enjoyed a little Red Mango after. It was a delightful night!

Cookies

Today I'm thankful for: #1- Having no where to go. This morning I slept in and enjoyed the morning with Nikkie in my pajamas. Everyone needs a morning like this just hanging out with a friend with nowhere to go. A perfect morning. 

#2- Play dough. In the afternoon Connor and I made play dough. Nikkie wasn't too excited about this apparently she doesn't like play dough. I told her to have a little fun. I told her I expected her to let him play with it at least once and then she could throw it away. I don't think it'll last long but Connor and I had a great time making it and playing with it for a fun afternoon activity.

#3- Enchiladas and Cookies. For dinner I cooked up some delicious enchiladas. It may be one of my favorite things to eat and I was so excited to share it with my friends. Then Connor and I made cookies. Also one of my favorite things in this world. I'm pretty sure that sugar cookies make everything in the world better. Makes me so happy!

My Best Friend

Today I'm thankful for: #1- One more week off. This morning I was so happy I didn't have to go back to work just yet. I was so happy to have one more week off. I decided a few weeks ago that I'd head to Idaho for a few days. I left around 8 so I could be in Idaho Falls by lunch time.

#2- My best friend. Nikkie is my best friend. She would do anything for me and I'd do anything for her.  We haven't had a chance to just hang out and it's been far too long. I decided that I'd just show up at her house with lunch. I did call her husband when I crossed the Idaho Utah border to make sure she'd be home for the day so I wasn't just sitting at her house waiting. I bought us some sandwiches in Pocatello and got to Idaho Falls a little after noon. Tommy called me to tell me I better call her because she was headed to eat lunch at the park. I texted her and asked her what she was eating for lunch. She said McDonald's and I told her that was too bad because I was at her house with sandwiches. She was there within minutes and I was pretty happy with my surprise. We hung out for the afternoon and she let me take a little nap on her couch. I informed her that I was staying at her house for a couple of nights. I just love that I invited myself but most of all love that she didn't care. And I'm so excited to spend some good time hanging out and just talking.

#3- Family. Also, on my way to Idaho I called my grandpa Clark and asked him if he wanted to meet me and my parents for dinner. He said of course. So I left Nikkie's about 4:30 to meet them all at 5 for dinner. We had a wonderful time visiting and enjoying each other's company. Normally we eat and then hurry on our way but tonight was different we sat in the restaurant for at least 2 hours. My dad and grandpa sat and visited about politics and all the other things they always discuss. I listened to some of their conversation and visited with my mom and Janis. Most of all I just enjoyed being with those I love and enjoying their company. After about 2 hours we decided we were ready for dessert so we headed to a yogurt place. Grandpa was 3 oz off from getting his for free and dad filled his cup with so many different odd flavors I don't have any idea how he enjoyed it - the mixing of flavors has never been my thing. When we were through with ice cream I gave mom and dad a hug and they told me they were coming to Utah on Thursday to get peaches and they said they'd take me to dinner. I told them I had tickets to Jimmer's All-Star game so Thursday wouldn't be good. Dad said well get us tickets and we'll go. I told them I'd buy tickets tonight. Tonight was so lovely and I enjoyed myself so much.

A Yummy Snack

Today I'm grateful for: #1- My stake presidents message to remember. Today we had ward conference. It is always nice to hear from our stake leaders. In Sacrament meeting my stake president spoke about remembering what we know.
He read Helaman 5:12 -And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall.
I love this verse and the reminder that there is only one foundation which is sure. That is Jesus Christ. His ways are not always the easiest, they are not always the most popular, but they are the ones that will never crumble. I know that it is through my Savior and His gospel that I have been able to overcome challenges in my life. I know that I have been comforted in my times of need and given strength. I also know that the good times have been so wonderful because of my faith in my Savior. My hope and desire in this life is to always be found building upon His sure foundation so that no matter what Satan throws my way I can stand firm and unmovable in my faith.

#2- Tricia's family who let's us be apart of their wonderful Sunday. Today Paige and Adam gave a beautiful message about faith and it was something that I needed to hear. Paige talked about instead of praying for the daily small miracles that we desire for ourselves and our loved ones that maybe we should consider praying to have faith that those miracles will happen. I've thought about this before because I have no doubt that the Lord can perform miracles. He knows all, He is in the detail of our lives, and He is in control. My problem is I lack faith at times. Faith that miracles will happen for me. So I think I need to start praying and asking my Father in Heaven to give me the faith I need to see miracles happen in my life. Tricia's dad also reminded us that we need to remember that part of having faith is knowing that those miracles happen in the Lord's time. He blesses us with our desires when it is the perfect time for them. Part of faith is really believing, knowing, that the Lord loves us and when the time is right all that we've been promised will be granted to us. I believe this but like I said I need to work on my faith.

#3- A little snack from Tricia's parents. Tricia's parents sent Kerri and I both home with a little bag of yummy fresh garden tomatoes. I'm looking forward to enjoying them tomorrow. It's been a wonderful Sunday!

Rolling in Mud and Meeting Cosmo

Today I'm thankful for: #1-  Fun friends. Haley and Kerri let me tag along with them to the Dirty Dash at Soldier Hallow. We were supposed to run the 10K but decided that the 5 K would be plenty long enough. This was actually a riot and we had a great time rolling in the mud. My favorite was the huge mud pit at the end. Kerri slipped and was completely covered. I kept my head above but was completely covered other wise. We're already planning our team for next year. Such fun!

#2 - Kara and pizza. Since there was a game in Provo we headed straight there from Midway. Kara was nice enough to let us shower at her house. We were covered in so much mud and that was after we'd already sprayed off in cold showers and took off our clothes and put on a dry shirt and wrapped up in a towel. We've learned a few things for next year. We were so happy to have a hot shower at Kara's and then she cooked us some yummy pizza from Papa Murphy's for dinner.

#3 - BYU Football. Or maybe I should say fun with friends because our boys in blue weren't so spectacular tonight. They weren't horrible in the first half but then they completely fell apart and Utah ended up winning 54 - 10. Pretty disgraceful. I refused to leave though I just can't do it. We ran into Cosmo on our way out and that brightened our day. We can mark meeting him off our roommate fall bucket list. Even though they lost I'm still pretty excited for this season and all the fun we'll have going to games and cheering for the Cougars.

Loving us some boys in blue

Today I'm thankful for: #1- A fun last day in third grade. I've enjoyed my week with these little kids. They're a great bunch of students and it makes me very excited for all the buddy activities that my class and Raegan's class will enjoy.

#2- Costco. Kerri and I headed over to Costco to pick up a little produce and some toilet paper. We were walking away from a sample and the sample lady boos us. (We both were wearing our BYU blue shirts in preparation for tomorrow's battle.) We looked at the old lady and laughed but I don't think she was being funny at all. Which made us laugh a little harder and we went on our way to get our toilet paper. Then we were on our way to the check stand and were walking toward another sample lady when she starts booing us as well. I looked at Keri laughed and loudly said, "Really? Really?" We didn't bother stopping to try a sample. I won't write what Kerri wanted to say to the lady but it made me laugh. I tell you what I'm not a big fan of the whole BYU vs. Utah rivalry. It seems to bring out the worst in people and I'm not impressed.

#3- Diligently seeking. After Costco we went home to change and head south to a fireside. Tricia came with us and we had a wonderful time being together as roommates. The BYU football team does a fireside each week before their games. They only do a couple in Utah and on weeks with home games when they're not doing a fireside they do other acts of service. (I think that's pretty cool.) Last year I went to their fireside that was in Salt Lake before they played Utah. I really enjoyed it and wanted to go again this year. This year the fireside was in Orem. When we sat down and looked up on the stand there was a player dressed in a royal blue suit. (Where do you even get something like that anyway?) We all thought it was something pretty specatcular. What is absolutely great about these firesides is the fact that all the singing, praying, and speaking is all done by the team. There's something about huge lineman singing Love at Home that warms my heart and helps me remember that there's some great things that are essential in life. Football is fun but not essential.

At these firesides they have a few musical numbers. Players volunteer and share their musical talents and then there are two players who speak. They also volunteer. Tonight the two that spoke shared simple yet profound messages. This year Bronco has encouraged those who speak to share "their story" at the fireside. That's kind of neat because all of us have a story and each one is so unique. The first player who spoke talked about playing football as a freshman in high school and leaving practice early one day after deciding that he was finished playing. He got home and sat down with his mom listing all the reasons he wouldn't be playing anymore. She said to him, "Get in the car." He said he thought she'd be taking him somewhere to console him but instead she took him back over to the high school told him to go back to practice, to remember that he had made a commitment to his coaches and to the other players and he needed to fulfill that commitment and finish the season. She told him she didn't care if he played after that year but he needed to fulfill what he'd committed to do. He said he went on to love football and had a great time playing in high school. Then he described serving his mission and the first few months being a lot harder than he thought. He said he loved the people and had a testimony but started to think that maybe a mission wasn't for him. He wrote a letter home telling his parents how he was feeling. His mom wrote an encouraging letter back and ended it with - Now get in the car. He remembered the lesson of years before and fulfilling commitments. He went on to love his mission and all the experiences and growth he received. Then he talked about walking onto the team at BYU. He'd played a couple of years at a junior college and then he was recruited to play for BYU understanding that there would be no scholarship for him. He decided that BYU was the place for him but then as he started into it and it was really hard to go to practice, work, and do schoolwork. Again he called his parents saying that he wasn't sure if he could do it and he wanted to give up. His mom told him it was time to get in the car. He said he'd stuck with it and was just rewarded a scholarship in is final year. He bore testimony about how much the Lord is aware of us and loves us. That in the moment when we think we can't do it anymore the Lord is just about to bless us immensely. I thought that was pretty great and how true it is that sometimes we just need to "get in the car." I also thought about how wonderful that he had an amazing mother that helped guide his life. Where would he be if he didn't have a mother who cared enough to help him keep his commitments. I decided two things #1 - When life gets hard I need to remember to "get in the car." and #2 - I want to be a mother like this young man had.

The second speaker talked on finishing first. He used the example of the players that coaches notice. He said that coaches notice those who finish first and those who finish last. He said he'd decided that he didn't want to finish somewhere in the middle or last. If you finish in the middle you are one of many who aren't finishing last but aren't really doing their best reaching their full potential and you go unnoticed. Those that finish last are noticed but not in a good way. I want to finish first reaching my full potential being who the Lord knows I can be. I also want to marry a man who is willing to make the sacrifices that are necessary to finishing first. To finish first as a worthy, righteous priesthood bearer who knows the importance of becoming who the Lord knows we can become.

Then Bronco ended the fireside by talking about seeking diligently. He made me think about how often do I seek for the good, for the spiritual, for those things that uplift and make me a better person. The things that draw me closer to God. I realized that I have a need to more diligently seek for an added measure of The Spirit in my life. It made me think about my daily activities and what I'm doing each day to invite The Spirit into my life.

After the fireside the players hang around and sign autographs. I feel pretty silly asking players who I really don't even know who they are, not even their names, to sign an autograph for me. It makes me feel like I'm 10 years old. But as we were leaving we crossed paths with Joshua "Juice" Quezada and Corby Eason. Juice was dressed head to foot in this awesome royal blue suit. So great. Kerri and I couldn't help but ask for a picture. I made Kerri ask because I'm a wimp and I feel like a 10 year old girl instead of being 30. They happily agreed to take one with us and it made for the perfect picture of my day!

#5- Waffles. I'm pretty sure we've discovered one of Salt Lake City's best kept secrets. We told Preston when we were back up in Salt Lake we'd meet him for dessert. Kerri's sister had told her about this waffle place so we decided to try it out. Let me tell you it isn't just a waffle it's a slice of pure perfection. Oh! SO GOOD!! Can't wait to go back and try other toppings!! We were all very happy with this little trip. It was literally the perfect dessert to end a delightful evening. I can't remember the last time I've had more fun on a Friday night. We were fed spiritually and that made me so happy then we ended the evening feeding ourselves physically with something very divine. Just such a lovely evening!!

Ward Temple Night

Today I'm thankful for #1 - One more day in 3rd Grade. After this week I think I've confirmed that I definitely belong in 6th grade. These kids are wonderful but I love the age that I teach and I'm pretty sure I could do these really little 3rd graders all year long. 

#2 - A nap. I was so tired when I headed home from work and I knew that if I was going to make it through a temple session I need to take a quick nap. I fell asleep quickly and didn't have a hard time getting going after so I could make it to the temple in time. Sometimes sleep is just the best medicine. 

#3 - The temple. My ward had temple night tonight in preparation for our ward conference on Sunday. I was so happy to be in the temple. It is always just what I need. 

#4- Friendly faces. Tonight in the temple I ran into my old Stake President's wife. He was actually in my session along with her but I ran into her in the women's locker room and she stopped me and gave me a hug, asked how I was, and told me I was just beautiful. Now I'm sure this women does this for everyone from my huge stake that she runs into. I'm pretty sure she doesn't know my name, what ward I attended, or remembers the many meetings I sat in with her as she counseled us in the ward Relief Society as a Stake Relief Society counselor but she knew she knew me from somewhere and she took the time to share her love with me. I thought about how I need to be more like her and share the love I have for those around me with them. Also, she'll never know just how much it meant to me for her to make me feel special enough that she'd take her time to say hello and give me a hug. I think the world needs more hugs. I'm grateful today that Sister Plum gave me one. 

Two of My Favorite People

Today I'm thankful for: #1- Another great day in 3rd grade. I have all the kids' names memorized and have enjoyed getting to know their little personalities. Raegan has a fun little group of kids. 

#2- Quade. Today was Quade's 30th birthday. He is a dear friend. Sometime our lives are busy and we don't get to do things often but I always really enjoy my time when I do get to spend it with him. Earlier in the week when I texted him and asked when I could take him out to eat for his birthday he said we could go Wednesday if I'd go to the KSL Coach's show with him. Now I just love all things BYU so I was more than delighted to get an invite. Here's something else about Quade- it's his birthday and instead of me feeling like I'm giving to him (which is how it should be) I felt like he was giving me a great gift. I want to be more like him. He knew it was something I'd really enjoy so he invited me a long. I thought he'd have a few friends from his ward or something but I was surprised when he'd invited another friend from high school Stephen and his brother - in - law Eric. Then I felt really special to be able to hang out with the guys for the evening. So Quade is a wonderful friend who allowed me to share in his birthday fun. Thanks Quade as always I think you're pretty great. 

#3- LaVell Edward's Stadium and Coach Bronco Mendenhall. We were in Provo with plenty of time to spare but we went straight into the stadium and headed up an elevator. The show is broadcast from the President's Guest Booth which I wouldn't mind watching a game from there - maybe some day. Since we were early we got to take a tour of the press boxes. Again pretty cool. Then we took our seats and waited for the show to start. Now I know I'm a bit fanatical. I do love to watch football but what I think I love most about BYU football is anytime I hear Coach Mendenhall speak he makes it clear that at BYU football isn't the top priority. Sure he talks about the keys to the game and he talks about what went well last week and what he hopes goes better next week but also talks about his players as people and a program that is destined for so much more than just winning games. And to me that is pretty cool. We really enjoyed the program. It was fun to be a part of a live audience and to not just be listening to the radio show but to also watch the interaction and facial expressions of the guest. Just a whole lot of fun. Then when it was over Bronco stayed around to sign autographs and meet the guests. Again, I'm very impressed with this man. He so genuine. I had him sign a Y to put up in my classroom. He asked me what grade I teach, how long I'd taught, and if I liked it. I told him that I love what I do. Everyday I'm very excited to get to go to work. He replied with there's a lot of people that search their whole life and never find that. And it's true. I know I've found where my passion lies. Then I asked him if I could get a picture with him because I take a picture each day to document my life. (I'm pretty sure he thinks I'm a pretty weird person especially when he asked me how long I've been doing this and I told him almost two years. But it's for my personal history so weird or not I love it.) I wanted Quade in the picture too because it was his birthday. Quade handed his camera to Stephen and Eric had mine. Now I know better than to have two people take a picture at the same time but I didn't want to make too big of a deal because Bronco is a busy man and well he probably wanted to get home to his family. So my picture isn't the best one but really it makes me love it because it makes me laugh. Bronco and Quade posed for Quade's camera and I posed for mine. Classic. Also I love how Bronco just sort of leaned over the table. The whole scene makes me smile every time I see the photo. 

#4 Dinner. We went out for sandwiches to end our evening and it was fun to continue to catch up with Stephen and visit with Quade and Eric. Thanks again Quade for inviting me and for being a wonderful friend!

A Good Book

Today I'm thankful for: #1- That even though I didn't need to I can go to the doctors anytime I need to. Sunday night I started to get a little bit of a sore throat. I doctored myself with my home remedies and even took Nyquil Monday night but Tuesday morning it still wasn't feeling much better and then by the end of substituting 3rd graders it was really sore. Not horrible but I started to get paranoid that it was strep throat. I went to the insta care and was tested. It's not strep that's what I paid $50 to find out. I'm not so grateful about that but I am grateful that there are good doctors and nurses to take care of me if I really was sick. I rarely go to the doctor and today I was reminded of why. Unless I'm about ready to die there's not much they can do for me. The most frustrating part of this story is the doctor told me to go home and take some Ibuprofen. So I did take a 30 minute nap and woke up with no sore throat definitely not 100% but feeling much better. Yep- next time I'll be doing much more of my own self medicating and if it's strep it'll be full blown before I take myself to the doctors.

#2- The cliff hanger season finale of Burn Notice. The Burn Notice Season Finale was last Thursday but we were all off vacationing so this was our first chance to get together to watch it. Like any good season finale it left us hanging wondering what's going to happen next.

#3- A good book to read. I headed to sleep early tonight. As in 9:00 early. I'm a pretty big wimp when I'm not feeling the best and going to the doctor and them saying it wasn't anything big confirms that the best medicine is rest. So I curled up in my bed with a good book and read for a while. I love a good read and I'm currently really enjoying The Goose Girl series by Shannon Hale. I didn't know there were more books than just The Goose Girl and was delighted to find out that there are two more books to read.

Fair Food

 Today I'm thankful for: #1- The chance to make a little extra money. Raegan needed a substitute for a week and I happily volunteered to teach her class to earn some extra money. They're a great little class and I'm excited to get to know them better. Third grade is definitely different than 6th. It has it's challenges that is for sure and I can't quite decide if I could really ever teach things like telling time instead of solving equations.

#2- Checking another one off the list. I'm loving this roommate list for the fall. On our list was eat fair food. We headed over to the fair for our own little Home Evening. We began with viewing the butter sculpture. Way crazy that it's all made of butter. I'm not even going to think about how much butter that is! Then we scoped out all our food options before making our selection.

Kerri was way excited about her corn dog. Something about a hot dog on a stick that is so delicious! Kerri also tried fried pickles. She let me have a bite of one and I must say they weren't half bad.

I saw these and new they were for me. They're tatar twisters. Fried potato goodness. I liked that they were thinly sliced so that they were a little crispy. I also ate a corn dog. I know a very nutritious meal. But we were checking off an item of a list. 

We ran into Haley and Brandon at the fair. It was wonderful to see her we should get together more often. 

I've got the starting of a cold so a frozen lemonade sounded so good. It wasn't so good. I just wasn't impressed - it was crushed ice with a little lemonade. I wanted it to be more of a slushie. I also found the glass ridiculous. As we left a lady saw me with it and said she thought it was so cool. I still had some ice I was eating or I would have given it to her. Just give me my drink in a paper cup so it doesn't cost so stinking much! I came home and threw it away. I won't being getting one the next time I'm at the fair.

And of course we had to end the evening with an Elephant ear. We had walked around and saw almost all the animals and decided to end the experience with a fried dessert. 

Kerri and Deeds with their ear. (Deeds is Kerri's brother who came with us on our adventure.) I don't know what we were thinking the four of us could have shared one. Not quite elephant size but close enough! The amount of grease we all consumed was a bit sickening. Good thing the fair is only once a year and I'll probably not go back for another 5 years. Or at least I won't be having dinner there.

And here's Preston. Somehow he slipped out of all my pictures (might have to do with he didn't eat too much fried food. Good choice on his part.) But I couldn't not document him on our adventure so I took this great picture of him and Kerri. Oh he makes me laugh!

#3- Medicine. Like I said I'm not feeling all that great so I came home took some Nyquil so I could enjoy a great nights sleep. I'm so thankful I live in an age where medicine can aide me to feel better quicker. I am truly blest.  

Returning a Favor

Today I'm thankful for: #1- Teaching Sunday School. Today I taught about Paul's second letter to the Corinthians. The first part of the lesson was all about tribulation - we didn't get to the other sections but that's ok we talked about what we needed to. Here are my favorite verse of the day: 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 "We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;"
"Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;" This is how I feel about the world today. All around me there is evil. Things that are meant to distance me from my Father in Heaven but I don't need to be distressed. I may be perplexed but because of Jesus Christ I do not need to be in despair. I'm not persecuted often because of my beliefs but even when I am I am not forsaken. My Lord is always with me. And when I feel beaten down I can be grateful that I'm not destroyed. I felt a power in Paul's words and thought maybe these scriptures would be good ones to memorize so I can bring them to mind when I'm having a hard day.

#2- Kerri including me in her family fun. Kerri's little niece turned one yesterday and Kerri took me along to dinner at her sister's to celebrate. It was fun to get to know Kerri's family a bit more and to just be with people. I like a good quiet evening but Sundays seem so sad and lonely if I spend the whole day at home. Thanks Kerri for letting me tag a long.

#3- Remembering 9-11-01 and being grateful. Today marks ten years from the day that America was attacked by terrorists. This whole past week has been full of pictures and people talking about this tragedy and the upcoming anniversary. It is an event that you never forget where you where or what you were doing. I heard about the attack in my Elementary P.E. class. I didn't watch much footage of what was going on because my apartment didn't have a t.v. I'm kinda glad I didn't watch much because even now the images of that day are so unsettling. Even thousands of miles away you felt unsafe and that the world was so unsure. I remember going to devotional that day and President Bednar had requested that we sing hymn number 124 "Be Still My Soul". I'm sure I'd sung that song before but this is the first time I ever really sang it or let the words penetrate my heart. It was the perfect song to still my heart and soul as news of destruction, hatred, and death surrounded me.

Be still, my soul: The Lord is on thy side;
With patience bear thy cross of grief or pain.
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In ev'ry change he faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul: Thy best, thy heav'nly Friend
Thru thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

Be still, my soul: Thy God doth undertake
To guide the future as he has the past.
Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul: The waves and winds still know
His voice who ruled them while he dwelt below.

Be still, my soul: The hour is hast'ning on
When we shall be forever with the Lord,
When disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love's purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul: When change and tears are past,
All safe and blessed we shall meet at last.

Text: Katharina von Schlegel trans. by Jane Borthwick

Now ten years later as we as Americans remember that September day when so many innocent lives were lost my soul is still. I know in whom I trust, in whom all things on earth and in heaven are controlled, and whom guides the future just as He has the past. He is my friend who leads me through the trials of life to a safe and Heavenly Home.

#4 - Returning a favor. Tonight I got to pick Preston and Tricia up from the airport. It's nice to have friends who'll let you return a favor when they need help. Both of these friends have dropped me off and picked me up from the airport multiple times. It's always a pleasure for me to get them when they need a ride.

A Shuttle Ride

Today I'm thankful for: #1- Emme. This little girl cracks me up. She was not ready for me to leave. She was so upset that we ran out of time and weren't going to get shaved ice. When Liz and I explained to her that she could still get one after they dropped me off. But that did not console her! She sobbed and said, "But it won't be with you!!" About broke my heart. Looks like I need to stay a week with Lilly and then another week with these three little girls. Three days for each just isn't cutting it.

#2- Shuttle Ride. I decided to ride the shuttle home and I was so happy that I wasn't driving. It was an uneventful ride and most of the it I watched a movie on my computer. I wish that there was a train between St. George and Salt Lake. That would be wonderful.

#3- Football. When I got home Kerri picked me up and then we met Maurianne at our house and went with her to a friends house to watch the BYU game. It was fun to watch it with friends but they ended up loosing by one point. Tough but life goes on. Kerri and I came home and watched more football. We watched Michigan come back and beat Notre Dame in the last few minutes of the game. It was super crazy and lots of fun to watch.

The Movies and Ice Cream

Today I'm thankful for: #1- A fun filled Friday.  When Gracee got home from school I promised the girls I'd take them all swimming if they cleaned up. Gracee is quite the little helper and soon things were picked up. I didn't really want to go but Liz seemed really tired and fell asleep on the couch so we snuck out to give her time to really rest uninterrupted. The girls had a great time but I have to admit watching three little ones in a pool with a bunch of other kids is a chore. I kept checking that I could see all three and when I couldn't see Gracee I'd panick for half a second until I realized she was swimming under the water or she was by a friend and I'd just scanned over her. Keeping kids safe is a pretty big job. Lucie was hilarious and kept walking back and forth to me on the steps with her whole body submerged in the water. She thought it was the greatest trick ever.

#2- Dinner of tuna casserole. When we got home the girls got bathed and I took a shower while Liz made us a yummy dinner. Emme kept trying to bring pillows to the table I'm not sure why maybe because they were in their pjs or because she wanted to sit on one. Liz kept telling her to take them back to her room. Well it never got all the way back to her room and was left laying in the hallway. We ate dinner and Lucie sat up and ate a lot. All that walking under water had her starving. Then when all of us were about 1/2 finished she got down and ran down the hall. We kept eating thinking she'd be right back. When she was way too quiet for too long and didn't come back I went to investigate. It seems that she spotted that pillow Emme had left and couldn't go any further. She was spread eagle asleep on top of the pillow in the hall. She literally just dropped mid run asleep. So funny and adorable.

#3- Movie theaters. To end our fun Friday Ruffin took us all to the movies. We went and watch Cars Two. It was a fun movie and we all loved eating out of the big tub of popcorn, drinking soda, and eating Reese's Pieces. Going to the movies is so much fun with little kids that think it's the most exciting thing ever.

#4. Late night with Liz and ice cream. When we got home the girls went straight to bed and Liz and I sat down to work on our Halloween costumes. I had to stop after a bit and have a little snack of ice cream and milk. So yummy I can't get enough. Not a good thing.

Lunch with Gracee

Today I'm thankful for: #1- In and Out and Happy Meals. Today Liz and I promised Gracee to bring her lunch and eat with her at school. What is so hilarious about this is we walk in get sat down and Liz looks and me and says, "Sorry, I didn't know it'd be this loud." I laughed and said, "What did you think the kids would all be sitting quietly eating? Don't you remember how loud a lunchroom gets?" I probably wouldn't think about it either other than that's what I hear everyday when I'm at work. Gracee was really excited to have us there and Emme and Lucie were loving every minute of the school lunchroom chaos. Liz and I had In and Out burgers and the girls ate happy meals from McDonalds. What a fun little activity.

#2- Just Emme. After lunch Emme and I dropped Liz and Lucie off at home to take a nap and we went shopping. We went to The Children's Place and found Halloween shirts for her and Gracee. I had already bought Lucie one when Lilly and I wen't shopping in August but they didn't have any I liked in the older girls' sizes. We found a really cute witch one. Then we picked up a carmel apple and Emme in all her cuteness got the candy guy to give her a free chocolate coin. I think he felt bad that I wasn't buying her anything. But I'd promised her either an ice cream cone or a slushie and I planned to enjoy the apple with Liz after all the girls were sleeping. Then we went to the Halloween store in search of wings. We found some but they weren't my very favorite so I thought I'd come back and get them with Liz later if we couldn't find any others. Then we bought Liz a cup of pebbled ice, a fresh lime squeeze and a slushie for each of us. Then we headed home. So much fun with little Emme. She's just full of personality and I love spending time with her.

#3- Another project. Gracee had dance so we had plans to go to the fabric store after we dropped her off. We're working on our Halloween costumes and needed to decide how to make our skirts. We settled on just making a big tutu so we didn't have to sew anything. We picked out all sorts of tool and we even found amazing wings that were on sale. It was definitely our lucky day.

#4- Late night. Liz and I stayed up way to late watching a movie, cutting tool, and tying it onto an elastic. Liz didn't get much of hers finished probably because I was hogging the tool. We enjoyed our carmel apple - it was all that I was hoping it would be. I stayed up way too late but we had a great time.

Swimming

Today I'm thankful for: #1- The temple. Liz and I went to the temple this morning while Emme was at preschool. It's always so lovely to be in the temple with family. I'm so thankful that because of the temple my family is Eternal. 

#2- Swimming. These little girls are part mermaid I swear. I can't believe what a year in hot St. George has done to them. Lucie walks all over the bottom of the pool, Gracee swims half the length of the pool under water, and Emme doggie paddles all over the place. (She might look a bit like she's about to drown but she does just great.) I had a fun time with them even if I really am not that big of a fan of swimming. They love it so I'm happy to be there. 

#3- Quiet evening. Liz had a meeting so I watched the girls for an hour while she was gone. I just love them to pieces. Then Liz came home and we hung out watching a movie. Love spending time with this sister of mine!

Flying into Vegas

Today I'm thankful for: #1- Jonathan and Lilly. Anytime I visit Jonathan is more than happy to pick me up or drop me off at the airport. It doesn't matter what time I schedule my flight they're always more than happy to come and get me. I just love them for it. I had such a wonderful time the only thing that kept me from being to sad was knowing I was flying into Vegas to see my other set of beautiful nieces. 

#2 - These faces who greeted me at the airport. Look at Lucie! That's some great hair. Liz said she had it all pulled out and Emme is just as adorable as ever. They were so excited to see me and I was excited to see them. 

#3 - This little one's attitude. Really I don't know what Liz is going to do in 12 years when this one is a teenager. All ready she's so full of it. I said smile Lucie so I can take your picture and this is what she pulls. Hands on her hips and posed. Love her to pieces.

#4 - Liz. Liz is always so wonderful when I come to visit her. She's always so concerned that we have a fun time when I'm in town and we always make some great memories. After she picked me up we drove into Vegas and went into an H&M store. She was so excited about it. They have clothes at a cheap price and she was so excited to shop. Liz gets her love of shopping from our dad. He loves to window shop and will walk my legs off. I'm more like our mom but I'll go along. What's funny is Liz's girls love to shop more than she does. Pretty great. What wasn't great about this store was the blaring music that gave me a headache which I didn't recover from until the next day.  

#4- Being the fun Aunt. Nothing makes me happier than buying a treat that reminds me of my childhood for my nieces. We never could get enough push-ups. Lucie especially loved hers and it made me so happy!

#5- Coloring. I think everyone should color every now and then. I brought the girls new crayons, colored pencils, and coloring books. You would have thought it was the best thing in life and really it is isn't it. We enjoyed coloring all evening. Gracee was so cute making sure her crayons went back into the exact same place that she took it out from. I finally told her not to worry about it so much and I'd bring her a new box when I visit again. What a sweetheart!

#6- Yummy Pizza at the Pizza Factory. I love pizza and it's always fun to go out and enjoy it with the girls.