Happiness in the Journey

Zoie's going to have a little...

2012-02-22T09:02:00.003-05:00

SISTER!!

Yesterday we had the BIG doctors appointment. We found out we are going to have another sweet little girl. We are super excited to add another girl to the family. Zoie loved seeing the baby and kept pointing and saying "baby." Zoie came to my side while lying down to hold my hand and lay her head on my side. It was really cute. The sonogramer, kept asking me if this baby moves around all the time. I told her that I've felt movements, but not constantly like I did with Zoie. The reason for asking me this, is that this girl was moving like crazy and it was hard for her to get pictures of all the anatomy she needed. It was pretty funny. She ended up getting some really good shots, take a look. Only 19 weeks left!!!

Staying STRONG in the STORMS of Life

2012-02-12T22:12:00.001-05:00

"The Touch of the Master's Hand"

--President Packer General Conference, April 2001

'Twas battered and scarred, and the auctioneer

Thought it scarcely worth his while

To waste much time on the old violin,

But held it up with a smile: "what am I bidden, good

folks," he cried.

Who’ll start the bidding for me?”

“A dollar, a dollar”; then, “Two!” “Only two?

Two dollars, and who’ll make it three?

Three dollars, once; three dollars, twice;

Going for three—” But no,

From the room, far back, a gray-haired man

Came forward and picked up the bow;

Then, wiping the dust from the old violin,

And tightening the loose strings,

He played a melody pure and sweet

As a caroling angel sings.

The music ceased, and the auctioneer,

With a voice that was quiet and low,

Said, “What am I bid for the old violin?”

And he held it up with the bow.

“A thousand dollars, and who’ll make it two?

Two thousand! And who’ll make it three?

Three thousand, once, three thousand, twice,

And going, and gone!” said he.

The people cheered, but some of them cried,

“We do not quite understand

What changed its worth.” Swift came the reply:

“The touch of a master’s hand.”

And many a man with life out of tune,

And battered and scarred with sin,

Is auctioned cheap to the thoughtless crowd,

Much like the old violin.

A “mess of pottage,” a glass of wine,

A game—and he travels on.

He’s “going” once, and “going” twice,

He’s “going” and almost “gone.”

But the Master comes, and the foolish crowd

Never can quite understand

The worth of a soul and the change that’s wrought

By the touch of the Master’s hand.

We all make mistakes. It is then in our nature to feel guilt and humiliation and suffering, which we alone cannot cure. That is when the healing power of the Atonement will help. The Atonement has practical, personal, everyday value; apply it in your life. It can be activated with so simple a beginning as prayer. You will not thereafter be free from trouble and mistakes, but can erase the guilt through repentance and be at peace.

There is always a way to escape and conquer the STORMS in life. You just need to realize that the first step to accomplishing those STORMS is to admit that changes need to be made, and pray to our Father in Heaven and activate the Saviors atonement into your life.

Life isn't going to be easy, but there is a way to overcome every difficult challenge placed in our life. I hope that you will turn to your Father in Heaven and allow him to heal you with the "touch of His hand."

Lego Building

2012-02-06T08:48:00.000-05:00

The other day Zoie had her friend Ivy over to play. They are best of friends and its cute to see them interact together. At one point they dumped out both bags of lego blocks. Zoie sat down in the middle of the mess and start to stack the legos. She would only stack the single ones, it was fun.

House Tour Part II

2012-02-06T08:41:00.000-05:00

I realized the other day, that I started a House Tour a long long time ago and haven't updated since the living room. So I am going to continue on with this and begin again with Zoie's room.

Entering Zoie's room

What you see as you enter:)

The other side of her room

This is what is hanging above the changing table. I made it for her birthday.

Not quite done, got to add the butterflies. :)

Baby Update

2012-02-06T08:34:00.000-05:00

Baby #2 is doing great. Heartbeat is strong. Two weeks from tomorrow we will find out what we are having and we are very excited. Zoie loves her little sibling and loves to give the baby kisses. She is so cute. I have been doing great. I have had some cravings but other than that, life has been pretty normal for me, except the belly growing part. :) Anyway, there is a quick update on me and the baby. Here is a picture of me, since you all want to see. (I am showing a little earlier than I did with Zoie, which is to be expected).

Staying STRONG in the STORMS of Life

2012-02-05T11:38:00.001-05:00

Satan is constantly in our lives. He is always trying to find ways to bring trials, hardships, heartache, and, pain into our lives. Sometimes, it is hard to keep telling Him to leave and to overcome all those challenges. Sister Bonnie D. Parkin, a former Relief Society General President, gave a talk entitled, "Remember Who You Are!" Her advice and words of wisdom has helped me learn to resist Satan and stay STRONG in my STORMS of life. I'll share my insights with you and encourage you to read this talk and feel of the love of God, and know you, personally can bind and rid Satan from your life. Write your thoughts and feelings down and see how the work of the Lord has blessed you in your life.

Being 'faithful and true' in your desires for righteousness.
To know is to do!
When we know something-- truly understand it-- then we do it.
I have been around for a long, knowing who I am changes what I do.
Gaining the knowledge of my eternal identity happens right now.
Part of seeking the kingdom first is seeking my specific place in the kingdom.
I too, can have innumerable spiritual experiences, and continue to ask Heavenly Father for further light and knowledge. Thus, the more I learn about God, the more I can become like Him.
What was promised to Moses, is promised to me.
To learn the things of Heaven, I must remove myself from the world.
Separating myself from the world both in distance and in worthiness is an act of great struggle.
Each time I feel the love of the Lord, I am experiencing a portion of His glory.
The Lord has a mission and purpose for ME.
It is essential that I learn what I am here.
"Your patriarchal blessing protects you from becoming weary in your mind. It reminds you who you are. It is personal scripture of the work you have to do and what you need to know about yourself."
I cannot come to know my calling with my natural eyes-- natural eyes do not require faith.
True faith is only made manifest in the face of heart-piercing trials.
Satan understands that when I doubt who I really am He can have control over me.
If Moses didn't experience God's glory, the darkness would have been less obvious.
I know how to judge between right and wrong, good and evil, God and Satan.
I can be strengthened by knowing my divine birthright.
i cannot give up praying to Heavenly Father. I must keep trying, even if the heavens seem sealed and silent. Plead for help and strength and direction from the Lord.
As Jesus learned, so can I; Faith not fear will conquer Satan.
Praying to God, brings strength to my soul.
"The only power I know of that will bind Satan, or render him powerless, is righteous living." -Elder Eldred G. Smith
Come to know Whose We Are
To know and receive the great reward, we must know how to remove ourselves from the world
DON'T GIVE UP. Heavenly Father is ready to help you bind Satan, to help you accomplish your dreams, and to help you stay STRONG in the STORMS of life.

Staying STRONG in the STORMS of Life

2012-01-30T09:49:00.000-05:00

Each New Year, everyone set new goals. Sometimes our goals we set, are set with high expectations, and in the end, become to stressful to achieve and/or continue to achieve. We live in a world where we are constantly doing stuff; work, housework, school, church callings, hobbies, activities, and others things that tend to occupy our time. Thus, making our life very stressful.

I am here to offer some insight that I've learned to helping me find a balance in my life. There is no one formula that can bring peace and no stress in our lives, but following these four suggestions, is a start.

1. Increase Energy

communicate with Heavenly Father through prayer. Ask for help.
participate in activities that renew the body-- service, physical exercise, napping, etc.

2. Simplify Your Life

"And see that all these things are one in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength." (Mosiah 4:27)

3. Focus on the Most Important Things

"We have been counseled that our families should take priority over other commitments. We strengthen our families when we set aside undisturbed time to be together."

4. Center on the Savior

"I am aware that life presents many challenges, but with the help of the Lord, we need not fear. If our lives and our faith are centered on Jesus Christ and his restored gospel, nothing can ever go permanently wrong." (President Howard W. Hunter)
"Coming unto Christ means walking away from the world. It means placing Christ and Christ only at the center of our lives." (Sheri L. Dew)

These four suggestions are a great to start prioritizing one's life. I didn't explain specifically how to do each one, because I believe that if you study each one carefully and personally you will know how to better help you and your life. Everyone has a different STORMS in their life. Only you can find a way to stay STRONG and figure out how to overcome those challenges. This isn't going to be easy, but it will draw you closer to your Father in Heaven and Savior Jesus Christ. I know that as these suggestions are applied in your life, you will see a difference and a happier, new you. Don't give up, life will get easier. Trust in the Lord and in yourself. You're not alone and in Him, you can do all things.

Staying STRONG in the STROMS of Life

2012-01-22T17:41:00.001-05:00

The Monument

God,

Before He sent His children to earth

Gave each of them

A very carefully selected package

of problems.

These,

He promised, smiling,

Are yours alone. No one

else may have the blessings

These problems will bring you.

And only you

Have the special talents and abilities

That will be needed

To make these problems

Your servants.

Now go down to your birth

And to your forgetfulness. Know that

I love you beyond measure.

These problems that I give you

Are a symbol of that love.

The monument you make of your life

With the help of your problems

Will be a symbol of your

Love for me,

Your Father.

--Blaine M. Yorgason

This poem says it all. Once we come to understand our problems, we realize they are not merely problems, but blessings. They make us stronger. They make us better individuals. I challenge you to ponder your trials and challenges that you've had and think of the blessings that came with them. Then write them down, and you'll see how much you have to be grateful for. In the end, you will know how to stay STRONG in the STORMS of Life.

Her Own Little World

2012-01-18T13:32:00.000-05:00

I've been on a cleaning and organizing fix lately and it's taking me forever to accomplish one simple little task.
The other day I was organizing all of our cabinets. I took everything out, cleaned out the drawers, etc. The floor at one point was covered with all of our kitchen appliances. As I was practicially inside one of the cupboards wiping everything down, I come back out and look at what has been kicking my legs and come to find out it was Zoie. She was lying on her stomach talking and playing with the crockpot buttons. It was so cute and funny. She was in her own little world playing all by herself. I love that little girl and the imagination she has.

Staying STRONG in the STORMS of Life

2012-01-17T10:14:00.000-05:00

It's been a while since I've posted on this particular theme. I apologize. Things are starting to slow down and we are getting back onto our normal schedule and rhythm. Entering into a new year I wanted to do a post about just that, New Year, New Life. I suppose you could say. I didn't know how I would do so, until I sat down one evening and opened the January 2012 issue of the Ensign and started reading t he First Presidency Message.

President Monson wrote about how we can be "Living the Abundant Life." I encourage you all to read this message and continually apply his teachings into your New Year, New Goals, New Memories, and even yes, a New Life.

President Monson states, "At the advent of a new year, I challenge [you] to undertake a personal, diligent, significant quest for what I call the abundant life--a life filled with an abundance of success, goodness, and blessings. Just as we learned the ABCs in school, I offer my own ABCs to help us all gain the abundant life."

A refers to ATTITUDE:

keep in mind that so much in life depends on our attitude.
how I choose to see things and respond to others makes a difference.
continuing to keep/have a positive attitude will bring peace, contentment and strength in my life.

B refers to BELIEF:

IN YOURSELF, OTHERS, & ETERNAL PRINCIPLES
I must not limit myself or let others limit myself to what I can do.
When I believe in myself I can then live and reach my highest dreams.
I CAN achieve what I believe I can.
Belief takes a lot of faith and trust.

C refers to COURAGE:

President Monson's definition-- "courage is required to make an initial thrust toward one's coveted goal, but even greater courage is called for when one stumbles and must make a second effort to achieve."
Keep the determination to make the effort to Try again!

To end our ABCs I will quote President Monson again. "May we remember these ABCs as we begin our journey into the new year, cultivating a positive attitude, a belief that we can achieve our goals and resolutions, and the courage to face whatever challenges may come our way. Then the abundant life will be ours."

I believe that if we choose to follow these ABCs, the STORMS we face in our life will be easier for us to overcome them. Stay STRONG and don't give up. Trust in the Lord and He will make up the difference for what we cannot do. May you all reach high, dream far, and accomplish the impossible this new year.

Santa Clause Is Coming To Town

2012-01-11T10:47:00.000-05:00

A little late on Christmas updates, but it's here now.

We spent Christmas with my side of the family. Everyone was home and it was a blast. Zoie loved being around everyone and being the center of attention. Christmas Eve, we all hung out at home, played card games, charades (a must christmas tradition), ate yummy food, watched "A Christmas Story", and frosted cookies.

Right before we were getting ready to put Zoie down for the night, Santa Clause shows up. It was exciting. Zoie didn't like him to much. She was okay while I was with her, but alone not so much, as you can tell.

Round 2

2012-01-10T20:42:00.001-05:00

We are two of a kind workin' on a full house. In case you haven't already heard, Ryan and I are adding to our family in July 2012 (July 3 to be exact).

We are both very excited and couldn't be happier. Zoie isn't sure what is going on yet, but she does kiss the baby in my tummy when we ask her too. We do know that she will be excited to meet this little baby in several months.

Baby # 2 (until we think of a nickname) at 10 1/2 weeks

11 Weeks

Zoie felt left out so I got a picture of her stomach :)

On my sidebar of my blog, I have posted a poll. A poll to ask you all what you think the gender of this baby is going to be. You have about 5 weeks to make your guess. I'm excited to see what everyone thinks. Hehehe...

Ring out the Old. Ring in the New.

2012-01-10T19:16:00.000-05:00

So it's been a while and I apologize for that. Many things have happened and many things are going to happen.I'll do my best to catch you all up on Christmas, New Years, and our wonderful, exciting LIFE.

This post is a time for me to briefly reflect on this past year. The 2011 year has brought great memories to our life. To name just a few big ones: I started coaching High School Volleyball. Ryan got a fun and better job, working at the library in town. Zoie turned 1, among many other things she has accomplished. This girl is amazing and discovered and learned so much in such a short time. We were so blessed this past year and feel very grateful.

We are so excited for this new year... 2012 baby! We're anxiously waiting for the new opportunities that cross our path. It's time for us to "ring out the old" and to "ring in the new." There is so much to look forward too and it is up to us to make the best of each opportunity and this new year.

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

Staying STRONG in the STORMS of Life

2011-12-07T13:58:00.000-05:00

Sorry this post is a few days late. I am going to be sharing my thoughts I felt during the First Presidency Christmas Devotional this last Sunday. I needed to take some time to digest all my thoughts and feelings, so I would be able to convey my uplifting and loving message to you all.

I love watching the Christmas Devotional every year. It gets me to really think about the meaning of Christmas and how to incorporate the true meaning in our home. I am going to share my feelings I had during each talk and hopefully they will inspire you to find out for yourself the true meaning of Christmas. I believe once you truly understand the meaning of Christmas, your season will be great and your STORMS will fade away.

President Uchtdorf:

When I learn to open my hear and mind to the meaning of Christmas, I will witness a sincere expression of love for others.
Don't expect a perfect Christmas!
Christmas is a time to focus on Jesus Christ and my family.
The best gift I can give my Savior is a contrite spirit and a broken heart, going out doing good, loving Him, and following Him.
The Savior's gifts to me: immortality, forgiveness, and eternal life (and so much more).
He gives me and extends His mercies and gifts to me in my life every single day, but am I ready to see them and allowing Him to show/give them to me?
Christmas is a time to recommit to remembering and following the Savior in my life daily.

Presiden Eyring:

Read and ponder what John 3:16 really means.
Having true faith means keeping the commandments. Keeping the commandments means having eternal life.
I must learn to choose the right and walk in the light.
Light is an important gift the Savior has and has given me. It is through this light of Christ that I can conqueor my STORMS and overcome Satan's temptations.
There is no end in God's kingdom. He will continue on forever and so we will I, if I choose to follow in His steps and keep ALL my covenants and promises I made to Him at baptism, and in the temple.
When I recognize and remember the gifts that God has given me in life and I hsare those gifts with others, I am understand and applying the true spirit of Christmas.

President Monson:

He thanked me (and you) for watching this devotional and doing the right thing.
Learn why Christ is the center of this Christmas Holiday season.
I need to establish a tradition this Christmas Season that invites the spirit of Christ into my home and life.
I need to learn to recognize my errors.
Don't spend Christmas, keep it in my heart always. Keeping Christmas in my heart means keeping Christ in my life.
I shouldn't keep the spirit of Christmas in my life just at Christmas time, I should continue to keep the spirit of Christmas in my life throughout the entire year and in return I will feel and find more peace in my life. I will be able to stand STRONG in my STORMS of life.

Those are some of my thoughts I felt during the Devotional. Now you may not have heard or felt any of things, which is perfectly fine. The spirit speaks to you in a way you can understand and tells you what you need to hear.

One other thingI felt and really don't know how to express to you perfectly, is how amazing the birth of the Savior, Jesus Christ really is. When I came to deeply understand and learn of the Savior's birth I came to better understand the importance of life and why I am here, living in this dispensation. A few thoughts I ponder about, that I strongly encourage you to do the same. First, baby Jesus was born in a manager, not in a hospital or place that was fancied up. Second, baby Jesus was wrapped in swaddling clothes, not the most expensive, cutest outfit you can find. Third, I learned so much about parenting from Mary and Jospeh. Being a mom, I have so much respect for Mary, and she has given me so much courage and adivce. Fourth, baby Jesus was so pure and innocent just like all babies born today.

I know Jesus Christ is the Christ and it is because of Him I am here today. It is because of Him, I found an amazing husband, who supports and loves me. It is because of Him, I have a beautiful daughter and love dearly. It is because of Him I know how to love. It is because of Him, I want to share my love for His gospel with all. Enjoy this Christmas Season and remember to feel of His love and invite His into your home and all those you meet. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Believe in Yourself

2011-12-02T12:41:00.000-05:00

I know some of you may have finals coming up or big events that need to have all these things done before you start the next phase of life. I have this story that I would like to share and hopefully as you apply it into your life, you will be happier and feel very accomplished.

Believe in Yourself

"Harvey MacKay tells the story of a professor who stood before his class of 30 senior molecular biology students.

Before passing out the final exam he siad, 'I have been privileged to be your instructor this semester, and I know how hard you have worked to prepare for this test. I also know most of you are off to medical school or graduate school next Fall. I am well aware of how much pressure you are under to keep your grade point averages up. Because I am confident that you know this material, I am prepared to offer an automatic B to anyone who opts to skip taking the final exam.'

The relief was audible. A number of students jumped up from their desks, thanking the professor for the lifeline he had thrown them. 'Any other takers?' he asked. 'This is your last opportunity.' One more student decided to go.

The instructor then handed out the final exam, which consisted of two sentences. It read: 'Congratulations you have just received an A in this class. Keep believing in yourself.'"

It was a just reward for the students who had worked hard and believed in themselves. The Apostle Paul experienced more headaches and heartaches in a month than most of us will see in a lifetime. Yet he wrote, 'I cand do everything through Him who gives me strength.'
Come on; start believing in yourself, in the Christ who lives within you, in the gifts He's placed at your disposal, and the destiny to which He's called you.
Refuse to settle for a B when God has promised and called you to an A.

Staying STRONG in the STORMS of Life

2011-11-30T21:21:00.001-05:00

There are a few days a week in my life where I need some encouragement. Something or someone to say things will be okay and don't worry so much. When I do hear these things or see these things, it is hard for me to accept and really be at peace with the situation sometimes. Have you ever felt that way before?
President Henry B. Erying stated that his general conference talk given this past October was a message of encouragement. His talked was titled "A Witness." Now how can this talk be a message of encouragement for all difficult STORMS we face in our life? Well, I am here to tell you it has everything to do with our STORMS in life. In my own words, being a witness means to bear one's own testimony in word, and/or action of what one believes to have felt or seen to be true. We can be a witness by the way we act towards others and sometimes those actions can help us forget about our STORMS or figure a way to get through them.

Every situation we face in our life, we can be a witness of Christ, not only that but, we can be a witness of who we are and what we really represent. Let people see you for who you are. Don't try to change, or become something you're not. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ love you the way you are and only want you to change for the better. Read of Their words, read of the Prophets and General Authorities words and come to find who you truly are and then proudly take a stand and represent the true you. One of the main things this gospel helps us come to understand and know is "WHO WE ARE." Take that challenge and discover who you are.

If you take the time to read President Erying's talk and feel of the spirit and allow the spirit to expand your knowledge of the Lord's gospel in your life, you will have the encouragement and strength to conquer anything that crosses your path.

Here are my impressions I had while reading his talk:

President Erying is encouraging me to get through my challenging times and the only way to do so is by reading the Book of Mormon.
Promises I made at Baptism: (that bring constant encouragement into my life)

to become charitable
to become a witness of God
to endure to the end

The Book of Mormon is a guide to let me know and learn how well I am doing and how to do better in this life.
Serving others is the best way to become charitable, and eventually if I continue to serve others then the feelings of charity become part of my nature.
It's hard to be a witness of Christ, but reading the Book of Mormon, I learn how to be a wintess in all different types of situations.
Enduring to the end means to follow the Savior's command with love and service to the end.
Steps that lead to a full conversion:

faith
prayerful study of the Book of Mormon

The Book of Mormon is the only way home to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. So I must immerse myself in Their words daily and drink of the living waters so I may know how I can return home and live with my family forever.

The Beginning and the End

2011-11-30T09:30:00.000-05:00

Last week I thoguht I would make some alphabet magnets for Zoie out of some magnets we already had. So I mod podge the colors of the rainbow onto all 26 magnets. I let the dry over night on the fridge and then I was going to make diy cuts of all the letters of the alphabet and mod podge them onto the magnets. Well... Zoie loved playing with them so much that I never was able to put the letters on, because she had taken the paper apart from the magnet by accident. So I need to figure out a new way to make them. This is how much fun Zoie has had with the colorful magnets.

"How did I get all this goodness in me"

2011-11-30T09:26:00.000-05:00

Ryan tells me that he has always had an angel food cake with chocolate frosting for his birthdays. So we got one and I frosted it. Zoie kept hovering around me, grabbing my pants, and looking at me with the look, that I want some chocolate frosting. So when I was done frosting the cake, gave teh spatula to Ryan who in turned gave it to Zoie. Oh my goodness, Zoie went to town and absolutely loved every minute of it. She had a smile on as she was moving from room to room. It was very cute, take a look.

Happy 25th Birthday!!

2011-11-30T09:21:00.000-05:00

Sunday, November 20th, was Ryan's 25th Birthday. Sunday was a busy day for him and we knew it was going to be so we opened his presents Saturday night when he got home from work. He got a lot of presents and was super excited!! Zoie couldn't just sit and watch dad open all his presents, so she joined him and helped him out. He got a the new Eragon book called Inheritance, a nice button up shirt, a sweater, and whole new church outfit -- white shirt, khaki pants, socks, and a belt. He loved all his and can't wait til his birthday next year. He is such a kid. Zoie helped him open his presents, enjoy these pictures.

Staying STRONG in the STORMS of Life

2011-11-20T08:28:00.000-05:00

Getting through this life is a hard challenge, but it can be an easy challenge, if you allow yourself to let it be easy. We don't ever have to get through our STORMS alone! Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are always there to helps us, if we are ready and worthy of their help. We know we are going to make mistakes. It is through those mistakes we make that we can learn from them and grow. It will be difficult at times to keep all the commandments. I am one who knows how difficult it is, but thankfully, Heavenly Father knew that would be hard for me, and for us, and so he provided a way for us to be forgiven, through the Saviors atoning sacrifice. The big key to being forgiven and not getting through our STORMS alone, is to ask forgiveness from our Heavenly Father through prayer. President Thomas S. Monson, our beloved Prophet, has shared his thoughts and feelings on this subject, in his talk Stand in Holy Places, in this past October General Conference. He helps understand that communicating with our Father in Heaven through prayer can help us "Stand in Holy Places," be worthy of divine inspiration, be forgiven, and that we can get through the challenging obstacles of life.

Once again, I will share my thoughts that I felt while watching his talk. I challenge you to read his talk and develop a meaningful realtaionship with your Father in Heaven, so you will be able to Stay STRONG in your STORMS of Life and then help others to do the same.

The Lord's commandments and laws will always remain constant.
Heavenly Father is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
Heavenly Father's consistancy is something I can depend on, and it is an anchor for my strength, faith, and testimony of Him and His gospel.
Being worthy of the spirit will bring more joy and happiness into my life, especially as I draw close to the Savior and follow Him.
I must be diligent in my spiritual matters, i.e. prayer, scripture study, family home evening, etc. so as to escape the world and Satan's temptations.
I am a being of the world, not in the world, thus it is necessary for me to communicate with Heavenly Father through prayer.
I must not EVER let a day go by without praying to Heavenly Father. He is my strength in this life and helps me keep on, keepin' on.
I must have goal to strive for daily prayer and then I will see the blessings of being entitled to divine inspiration from Heavenly Father.
It is important to be worthy to receive inspiration, to feel it, to recognize it, and to follow it.
Applying all these things to my life, I will be standing in Holy Places and no one will be able to move me. I will be able to resist all the temptations of Satan, because I will have the strength of the Lord behind me, helping me to Stay STRONG in my STORMS of Life.

I know that communication is the key to get through this life. It is through my prayers, questions, and answers, that I know I am not going through this life alone. I know I don't have to figure everything out on my own. I have the Lord, my husband, my children, my family, and my friends to lift me up so I can endure to the end and live with my family FOREVER and live in the presence of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

I would like to echo President Monson's statement, "Communicating with our Father in Heaven-- including our prayers to Him and His inspiration to us-- is necessary in order for us to weather the storms and trials of life." You don't have to get through this life alone and you can be forgiven for all your sins, if you would only turn to your Father in Heaven in prayer. He loves you and wants to help you. Open your hearts and let him in and you will never stop communicating once you come to feel of his love and constantly see His hand in your life. I know this to be true, I have seen it in my life, my husbands life, and in the lives of my friends. This principle is real and do whatever you can to apply it into your lives. I know the Savior and Heavenly Father are on my side and are helping me in this life. This gospel is true and is a forever blessing in my life. I leave these things with you in the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ, Amen.

The Most Wonderful Thing about Tigger!

2011-11-19T12:45:00.001-05:00

Zoie has a best friend. It's weird to think that she can have one, cause she loves kids in general and will play anyone. Altough when it comes to Ivy, she gets super excited to play with her. I will mention "Do you want to play with Ivy" and she gets a smile on her face and starts stomping her feet up and down with excitement. Its so cute. A couple weeks ago we were over at Ivy's playing. She has this tigger toy that bounces up and down and Zoie loves it and wants to bounce with tigger all the time. So the most wonderful thing about tigger is he keeps Zoie happy and in a good mood! Here is a video I took of her "bouncing." Enjoy.

Awww... Moment for Ryan

2011-11-17T13:15:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago, Zoie was sick with a stuffy nose and so she couldn't breath well when she went to bed. She has been sleeping through the night for some time now, but not since she got sick (she does now again, thank goodness!). But when she wasn't I would go get her and cuddle with her in her room in the rocking chair until she fell asleep again. Once she was asleep I would put her down in her bed and she would wake up crying, so I decided that the only way for me to get to sleep was to bring her into bed with us (I usually don't do this, but under the circumstance, I did).When I did that she was out and I was able to get some sleep. Ryan got up early the next morning to get ready for work and while he was getting ready he saw us and thought that it was sweet how we were asleep together in bed. So, he took a picture with his phone, not the best quality picture but you can see us and get the idea. It was one of the many "Awww... moments for Ryan!"

Staying STRONG in the STORMS of Life

2011-11-16T09:16:00.000-05:00

We live in a world and time that makes us question whether we matter or not and whether we belong or not. This feeling makes living life difficult. This feeling also makes the challenges and hardships we face unbearable. Then we come to wonder and question if the Lord knows us, loves us, and wants us to be happy. Having thought, pondered, and questioned all of these things at some point in my life, I am here to tell you, "YOU MATTER TO HIM!" I have developed a stronger testimony and belief of that saying, thanks to President Dieter F. Uchtdorf. President Uchtdorf is a member of the First Presdiency and spoke on this topic this past October General Conference. I am going to share my thoughts and feelings that I had while listening to his talk. I challenge you to read, listen, or watch his talk and write the impressions you feel and come to know and understand that the Lord loves you and that YOU MATTER TO HIM!!!

The more I learn about the universe the more I learn about God.
King Benjamin tells me to, “always retain in remembrance, the greatness of God, and [my] own nothingness.” (Mosiah 4:11, with emphasis added)
I am the reason God created the universe. He created the universe so there was a way I could be saved and exalted.
Everything created in the world is for my benefit and to help me reach my full potential.
I am EVERYTHING to God.
God's greatest desire is to help me reach my full potential. I must allow Him to help me when I need it.
My true value and purpose has little to do with the what the world is thinking of me. I matter to God.
I need to learn to become as a child and in-turn will feel the Lords love for me, personally.
When I serve others, I am serving God and showing my love for Him.
What matters to God is when I do the best I can, my heart is towards Him, and I am willing to serve Him.
My actions are a living witness of my strong faith in God.
I must ALWAYS remember I matter to Him.
If I ever doubt that I matter, I need to consider these 4 divine principles:

God loves the humble and meek.
The Lord entrusts the fullness of his gospel to be proclaimed by the weak and simple to the ends of the earth.
No matter the situation or circumstance, I am not invisible to Heavenly Father. He loves and knows me.
What I see and experience now is not what forever will be.

I must have hope and faith in Him.
I need to learn to LOVE.
I need to come to understand my true eternal worth and potential.

Those are all my thoughts I felt throughout President Uchtdorf's talk. I know that when I am struggling with so many difficult STORMS in my life, and that if I stay STRONG the Lord will help me get through them. When I let Him help me out, I come to know, feel, and understand that I really do MATTER TO HIM and He loves me. I know if you will come to do the same you will know you matter to Him. I know that God is real and is always ready with a stretched out arm to lift me up when I am down. I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Halloween Costume

2011-11-09T09:37:00.000-05:00

Zoie was a ladybug for Halloween. She absolutely loved this costume. She would get upset when I would take it off of her. That is how much she loves this costume. We now use it for her pajamas, one because its soft and warm, two because she won't let us take it off. hehehe.... :) Funny girl. Zoie loved trick or treating and being able to have a few pieces of candy. I think mostly loved seeing other kids run around with her.

Carving Pumpkins

2011-11-09T09:33:00.000-05:00

Its been a while and I am so sorry. Time to catch you all up on our family life. Sunday, October 30th we carved our pumpkins. It was a lot fun. Zoie enjoyed it a lot. Took a while to stick her hand in the pumpkin, but after she did, she couldn't stop. Here are our pumpkins. Happy Halloween! :)

Sneak Peak

2011-10-26T22:09:00.000-04:00

Sunday we had our family pictures taken for the fall. I love to take family pictures and look back and see the changes over the months. Zoie was a grump pretty much the entire time, but inspite all that we had lots of fun and got some good shots. Here is one of our favorites. More to come as soon as we get them.

Dance...Dance...Dance

2011-10-24T10:18:00.000-04:00

When Zoie hears music, people singing and such she gets a big smile on her face. Following that smile is a bunch of dancing. She dances so cute and its so much fun. Enjoy this video of Zoie showing off her mad dancing skills! {sorry I don't know how to rotate the video right side up.}

Staying STRONG in the STORMS of Life

2011-10-23T20:20:00.002-04:00

It's very difficult to stay positive, STRONG, and hopeful through the STORMS in life. Well... at least for me it's hard. I tend to worry a lot about EVERYTHING, sometimes a little too much. This month, (October), especially, has made me worried -- every single day, all day long. If you don't know me, its important to keep in mind, my all time concern and worry is money. Do we have enough for our family? Do we have enough to make payments on time. Do we have enough for the necessities of life? In the end, we ALWAYS have sufficient for our needs. This month we had more than our normal amount of bills to pay. I was extremely worried. This is one of our big STORMS in our life as a young married couple with a 13 month old daughter. However, I really have no need to worry, because the Lord has promised to take care of me and my family. Only if we are faithful and do what is right, then we will be blessed by the hands of the Lord, or the instruments in the Lord's hands. This is a great blessing to know that we will have what we need to provide for our family and build up the Lord's Kingdom.

3 Nephi:30-34, is one of the many scripture references to the Lord taking care of His faithful and diligent servants.

"Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, even so will he clothe you, if ye are not of little faith.
Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? of, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
For your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.
But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.
Take therefore no thought for the morrow, for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient is the day unto the evil thereof."

When we learn to put Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ first in life, especailly through our STORMY situations, all things in our life will eventually fall into it's place. Learn to TRUST and ACT in faith. Then we will have sufficient for our needs-- all the necessities of life.

I am gratefull for the knowledge I have that my family will never have to go without. That's a great comfort and blessing, especially to a mother and father. It's a great blessing the church , Heavenly Father, and Jesus Christ offer to those faithful followers. I know this to be true and testify of the miraculous power Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have in blessing our families. My hope and prayer is that you will stay positive, STRONG, and hopeful in your STORMS of life. May you learn and feel of this wondeful blessing. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Stillness...Timeless...Priceless...

2011-10-20T13:33:00.000-04:00

One Year Ago...

2011-10-20T13:29:00.000-04:00

One year ago, Ryan and I were blessed with a beautiful little girl, weighing 6 pounds 6 ounces and measuring 19 1/4 inches long. She was so small, so adorable, and so perfect! Now she weighs 21 pounds and measures 30 3/4 inches long. Our little bug, Zoie, turned a year old on 26 September 2011. We can't believe it's been a year. Man time sure does fly by. Zoie has grown so much, learned many things, and absolutely loves life. Zoie brings so much happiness and joy to our lives. Zoie has such a happy and friendly personality and because of that our family has a great journey ahead.

Zoie went from this . . . .

Then to this . . . .

And then to this . . . .

HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY LITTLE GIRL!!!

WE LOVE YOU!!!

Advanced Reader

2011-10-18T12:12:00.001-04:00

Zoie has been walking around the house with one of Ryan's books. Its the only book she will grab from the shelf and "read". We don't know why its always this one, there are no pictures, just plain simple words on every single page. the book is called " Tangents". She has become quite the advanced reader lately.

Birthday Dinner

2011-10-17T08:43:00.000-04:00

We had Zoie's Birthday Party during dinner time, becasue we thought it would be best to give her some good food before she chows down on chocolate cake. So we made some easy and simple, Spaghetti! Zoie and all her friends enjoyed their food.

Here are some photos of Zoie eating spaghetti:

love how she is slurping this one :)

Ladybug Cake

2011-10-13T12:13:00.000-04:00

Zoie's birthday party theme was Ladybugs. I enjoyed decorating and making the cake. The cake is nothing fancy but it turned out cute and just right for a one year olds birthday party. Pictures of her eating her cake and dinner to come next post.

I hung red ballons from the ceiling all around house for decorations.

Zoie's ladybug cake!!

Peanut Butter Messiness

2011-10-12T09:57:00.000-04:00

I am back!! YAY!!!! I am so glad we finally got internet again and I can update the blog. I have been going crazy. With that said, I am going to start from where I left off and continue on until I am up-to-date. So, please bare with me and have patience. To begin, we are going to share the love that Zoie has for peanut butter. Let me tell you, she LOVES peanut butter and has a peanut butter sandwhich for lunch, just about every single day. Boy, does she know how to make a mess with a peanut butter sandwhich. It's so funny and priceless.

Staying STRONG in the STORMS of Life

2011-09-19T09:26:00.000-04:00

Sorry I didn't get this posted yesterday. Sundays have been busy. We start chruch at 1pm and Ryan is in a bishopric and has meetings before and after church, so we don't get home til around five. Then I make dinner and put Zoie to bed. I'll try to do better this week.

Anyway, Saturday, our Stake had a Temple day and Ryan and I were able to go. We left Zoie with a babysitter and took a 3 hour drive up to the Washington D.C. Temple. It was so nice to go and not have to worry about anything. I love going to the temple for that reason. I can go and not have to worry about Zoie, our finances, work, chores, and other things that take up my time. It is there that I know I'm not alone and the Lord loves me.

Washington D.C Temple at Christmas Time

I felt the spirit so stongly and had many of my questions answered. Being in the temple gives me a better desire to follow the Lords commandments and seek after Him. Our life the last few weeks have been crazy busy. Ryan and I haven't seen much of each other. Ryan goes from one job to the next and when he is home, I'm a volleyball practice or away at a game. It's been rough and I miss him, but I know because of our love and our temple sealing we will be just fine.

I'm so grateful for temples and the blessings and covenats we make and receive their. The Temple has strengthened my marriage and has drawn me closer to my Father in Heaven and my Savior. Going to the temple is the only place where I can feel at peace and really not worry about anything. I know when I put the things of the Lord first, all my worries, concerns, and responsiblities will be taken care of. I know the Lord is real and speaks to his sons and daugthers in the temple. I know that going to the temple often really does a make difference in ones life. Not only can it make a difference it can help you stay STRONG in the STORMS of life. I challenge you to go to the temple and feel of the Lords love for you and your family.

Capturing Moments

2011-09-12T14:07:00.002-04:00

Just wanted to share with you all some fun, happy, cute moments that I captured this last week. We LOVE Zoie so much and she always puts a smile on our faces, despite the situation.

Multi-tasking Already

2011-09-10T22:02:00.001-04:00

The weather this past week has been rain, rain, and so more rain. All this rain has brought all the ants into our house. I DESPISE ANTS!!!! So I had to clean up the living room and spray all around the base boards. Now Ryan was at work when I had to do this, which made things a little difficult, because Zoie can walk everywhere, whenever she wants too now. However, I did find something to keep her occupied for about and hour or more, so I can pick up, vacuum, sweep, and organize the living room. This "something" was a movie called Hoodwinked. I put it in, sat Zoie on the couch with all her toys and she sat and watched that movie and laughed a lot. It was so cute.

I learned something about Zoie that day. She is a multi-tasker!! Not only did she watched the movie, she also played with Ryan's gameboy (no game is in it though, imagination is what she used :). It was the most preicous, exciting, and upsetting moment for me. Precious because she just looked so dang cute and was laughing at everything and talking so much. Upsetting, because she is growing up and understanding things and can let us know what she wants or needs at times. Exciting, because she is learning so many new things and it' fun.

We love that little girl so much and can't believe in a couple weeks she will be a year old. One big thing I discovered that day, was we need to get Hoodwinked, because she absolutely loves that movie. It is the only movie I have ever seen Zoie (a baby/almost toddler) sit still the whole time through.

Staying STRONG in the STORMS of Life

2011-09-04T22:20:00.002-04:00

The first Sunday of every month, the members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints gather together for a "Fast and Testimony Meeting." We come together having not eaten anything for at least 24 hours and bear our testimonies on what we know to be true. With that being said, I would like to share and bear my testimony with you all today.

I know that this is the true church of Jesus Christ. I know that He lives and died for me. I know the atonement is real and does work in my life. I know this to be true, because I have read the Book of Mormon, which I also know to be true. The Lord has manifested his truthfulness and power through the scriptures. I know the blessings that come from daily prayer are indeed answered from a Father in Heaven who loves me and wants to help me overcome any trials and challenges I face in this life.

I know that we have living Prophet today, President Thomas S. Monson. I know he is called and ordained of God to help me know how to continue to live righteously that I may return home to my Father in Heaven, Jesus Christ, and live with my family for eternity.

I say these things in the name of our beloved Savior, even Jesus Christ, Amen.

Eleven Months Already

2011-08-31T21:06:00.002-04:00

Zoie turned 11 months on the 26th of August. I can't believe she is already there. She has grown up so much in the last month.

Here is what Zoie has learned this last month:

Standing up all by herself (doesn't need to grab something to help her stand now)
Can wave her hand and say Hi and knows what it means. Its cute everytime we go down the stairs or she sees a car on our walks she waves and says "Hi" LOVE IT!
WALKING!!! ALL OVER THE PLACE. Its so much and it was very exciting watching her try and getting. She loves to walk now.
Gives kisses when I tell her too. Most of her kisses go to her baby doll though, some come to mom and dad:)
I learned she understands better when we show her what we are doing. She learned to be soft on others faces and body, (hasn't perfected it yet), but I would be soft to her baby doll and then she would repeat what I did.
Almost sleeping through the night, gets up once a night.
Loves cheese and pretzels

Those are just a few that I can think of. She is growing up so much and I am so proud of all she has been learning, before I know it, she'll be running around like crazy.

Such a cutie pie

Wall Decor

2011-08-25T15:39:00.001-04:00

The last few days I have been busy doing a project, that I have been wanting to do for a while now. I finally buckled down and got myself started. I can't remember where I got the idea from, but here is my lastest craftiness. :)

I took a stationary box, shoe box lid and baby food jar holder and painted them white and then did various designs in yellow as you can tell and then hung them all up in the living room. Added a little bit more color and life to the room. Don't you think?

Baby food Jar holder

These two were the stationary box

This is the shoe box lid.

I think it just looks good next to the TV and window.

Now go give it a try and share with me what you've come up with. I think this will be lots of fun and the best part is... its cheap and easy and looks GREAT!!!

A Walking Bug

2011-08-22T13:16:00.000-04:00

Have you ever seen a bug walk? :) hehe.... Yesterday Zoie took her first steps and we are so proud of her and very excited. Today I was able to catch it on video.

Staying STRONG in the STORMS of Life

2011-08-21T19:16:00.001-04:00

Life will always be difficult and challenging. I receive great blessings when I am diligent in studying the scriptures through challenging times in my life. For this reason, I thought I would share a video and a talk by Elder D. Todd Christofferson, called The Blessings of Scripture. Hopefully by watching this video and reading his talk that I have linked to, will help you out with whatever trial you are facing and/or give you a better desire and determination to take President Monson's challenge to READ the Book of Mormon.

I know there is great power that we can receive through studying the scriptures. Not only do we receive great power, but we receive amazing blessings that in turn help us with our trials and challenges we face. I am grateful for the scriptures and for the Prophet Joseph Smith. I know Joseph Smith translate plates, so I may have the knowledge of the gospel. It is because of the scriptures that I know Jesus Christ lives and blesses me and my family. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Hand & Foot Scrub

2011-08-18T10:17:00.000-04:00

My volleyball girls have been working hard the last two in a half weeks with 3 hour practices Mondays through Fridays. We have a four scrimmage games today and our first home game on Monday. The girls are going to be so tired after today and I thought I would do something nice for them. I want them to relax this weekend and prepare for their first home game Monday. So to help them relax and prepare I made them so Lime Hand & Foot Scrub. I got the idea from HERE

I mod podge some scrapbook paper around the baby food jars and the lids.

Then tied a yellow ribbon around it.

It was so much to fun make.

I tried some and am in love. My hands are so soft!!

Hilarious

2011-08-17T13:04:00.000-04:00

So Zoie is quite the funny little girl. She laughs at the most weirdest things, for example, the other day I took my hair-tie and flicked it up into the air and she busted out laughing. It was HILARIOUS!! I caught it on video. Hope this brings a smile to your day. Sorry you can't see her face very well in the beginning.

Staying STRONG in the STORMS of Life

2011-08-14T19:48:00.000-04:00

Have you ever wondered "Why is this happening to me?" "Why now?" "Why me?" I definitely do at times. Well, guess what?! Today is the day you will hopefully have an answer to those questions that seem to add extra stress into your life and a desire to search and study it out for yourself.

Elder Kent F. Richards gave a talk in the April 2011 General Conference that can give us answers to those questions and help us to understand those purposes. His talk is titled, "The Atonement Covers All Pain". In his talk we learn that we experience pains, have difficult trials, and have feelings of sorrow, to help us for life in this world and the life hereafter. I know it is difficult to see the good, the blessings, in all those situations, but with faith and trust in the Lord our eyes will be opened to the outpouring of blessings the Lord so graciously bestows upon each and every one of us.

An important lesson I learned when reading this talk has given me the desire to understand my pains, my trials, my sorrows, and all the "Why Me's." This is the lesson learned. Jesus Christ CHOSE to experience pain, have trials and have feelings of sorrow. He did so to better understand each and every one of US. He CHOSE to learn from His personal experiences, as must we, so as to understand Him, the purposes of mortality, and our eternal purposes in the life to come. Therefore, we must come unto Him with a sincere heart and ask for his help and guidance in our troubling times. The truth of this is found in 2 Nephi 9:21 and Hebrews 4:16

He suffereth the pains of all men, yea, the pains of every living creating, both men, women, and children.

Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

I know it is hard to understand the "Why Me's," but it only draws each one of us closer to our Father in Heaven, our Savior, Jesus Christ, and to our families. I know that the Atonement does in fact cover all pain and is real. I know that when I go to my Father in prayer with a sincere heart and ask forgiveness, I am forgiven. I know that to be true because of the willingness of the Saviors atoning sacrifice. The church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is true and is an everlasting blessing in my life and my family's life. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Frame Makeover

2011-08-13T18:21:00.001-04:00

I have been meaning to do a project all week long, but have been so busy with volleyball practices and life. Today I finally made myself sit down and work on a project today. Its nothing fancy or big, but it sure does lighten up the wall a bit.

I had these two small black frames with leaves we collected last fall in them, and figured I should do something else with the frames. And I did. What do you think? It was so much fun to be crafty again. It kind of relaxes me and puts me at ease with all the stresses of life.

They are now painted yellow!!! I'm in love with yellow right now.

This one has a fabric orange pattern

This one has a fabric torquoise with white designs that you can't see

Staying STRONG in the STORMS of Life

2011-08-07T21:21:00.000-04:00

In Relief Society today we talked about President Thomas S. Monson's conference talk Finding Joy in the Journey. I believe once we take the time to find the JOY in our life's journey we come to accept and understand the trials and challenges that are placed before us.

A most recent trail that my husband and I are going through has been hard to find that JOY in our life. My husband, Ryan graduated from college in April and ever since has been trying to land a full-time job that he enjoys and knows he can uplift, edify and do a good cause for those people he associates with. He has not found one yet and its very frustrating. He has had applied for many positions, gone in for many interviews and even gone in for second interviews (that's suppose to be a good thing right?!). In the end it always came down to him and someone else, and they gave it to the other person, because they had more experience. HELLO! You can't get experience unless you get the job. So our life has been hard and it would be nice not to have to worry about the daily expenses life requires. But then I always remind myself of this saying:

"I never said it would be easy, I only said it would be worth it."

Is not that true?! Life is not always easy, but once we can take the time out of our busy day, sit down, and find the JOY in our journey is when we can see the blessings and say "Yes, it was worth it!"

She is our JOY.

The Lord is going to give us trials, if He didn't how else can we know the feeling of true JOY!

"And for this cause ye shall have fulness of joy... yea your joy shall be full, even as the Father hath given me fulness of joy; and ye shall be even as I am...." (3 Nephi 28:10).

I am grateful for the JOY I have found in my trials and challenges. I know Ryan will find a job that not only brings JOY to him and and our family but to all those he comes in contact with. I know the Lord is there to help me find that JOY in life. I know the only way to truly understand the fulness of JOY is to put Jesus Christ first, then to serve Others, and then to spirtiually, physically, and edify Yourself. The church is ture and the power of the Lord is real and of this I bear my testimony and witness in His name, even Jesus Christ, Amen.

Look at My Toes

2011-08-06T09:01:00.001-04:00

This morning Zoie and I were watching Thumbelina and she let me clip her fingernails and toenails and then I decided I should paint her toenails since she was sitting so still for me. So I did and they look great. I was surprised to see that she would let me as I was painting them, but she just starred at them and smiled. They look so cute on her. Oh we are going to have so much fun with different colors.

Oh Cigar Boxes

2011-08-02T09:42:00.000-04:00

I know I got you thinking about this post with that title, right?! Well... Ryan has been such a great husband and has helped me stay crafty and creative. While I was gone visiting my family in June he brought home some cigar boxes from work. He thought I would be able to do something crafty with them. Such a supportive husband!

Here is one that I decided to do something with the other night. I didn't know what to use it for at first, but I just mod podge some scrapbook paper to it and then decided to use it for all of Zoie's hair-ties, clips, ribbons, bow etc. Works out pretty well.

Neat huh?!

Well, that is as creative as my mind is working at the moment with these cigar boxes. I have two more of these boxes and my creative side is not thinking of any cool, neat, ideas.

With that being said I need some help from you to get my creative juices flowing agian. So my question for you today is, what are some cool and neat ideas to do with these boxes? What would you do with them?

Have a great Tuesday everyone! Thanks for stopping by.

Staying STRONG in the STORMS of Life

2011-07-31T16:04:00.002-04:00

Fifteen years ago my family experienced a trial that no one wants to have. The trial we experienced was losing a member of our family. My little brother Benjamin Scott Thompson was born on 31 of July 1995. He was the fifth child to be born and he brought so much joy and love to our family. He was the happiest, friendliest baby I have ever known, smiling to everyone and anyone. Ben was the peacemaker in the home. A year after his birth, he finished his mission in this mortal life and was called back home to serve with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ on 13 of September 1996.

This trial was very difficult for my family. No one wants to lose a son or daughter, brother or sister. I know for me at least, it took me a while to accept what happened and "officially" move on with my life. Satan was working really hard on me and testing my testimony. Satan wanted me to blame the trial all on me in hopes it would discourage me to the point of losing my faith and myself. As tempted as I was, I did not give in to the adversary. I owe it all to the help and support of my family and friends. I knew that I could only get through this trial and accept what happened if I sought after the Lord for love, comfort, assurance, hope, and peace. I did this through daily scripture study and prayer. During a scripture study session, many years ago, I came across this scripture:

"AND NOW, O MY [DAUGHTER HILLARY], BEHOLD, THOU ART IN THY YOUTH, AND THEREFORE, I BESEECH OF THEE THAT THOU WILT HEAR MY WORDS AND LEARN OF ME; FOR I DO KNOW THAT WHOSOEVER SHALL PUT THEIR TRUST IN GOD SHALL BE SUPPORTED IN THEIR TRIALS, AND THEIR TROUBLES, AND THEIR AFFLICTIONS, AND SHALL BE LIFTED UP AT THE LAST DAY" (Alma 36:6).

I knew the Lord was with me and supporting me. I knew it was all going to be okay as long as I trusted in the Lord and in my testimony. This trial has become one of the biggest blessing in my life and I am forever very grateful for the lessons I learned from it.

I know the gospel of Jesus Christ is the true gospel on this earth today. He is real. He is ready with a strecthed out arm to help and lift our burdens if we would only reach out and take His hand with our complete trust and faith in Him. Unfortuantely, trials will not cease to exist, they will continue to happen and make us better indivduals of the gospel. Our trials will hopefully give us a STRONG desire to choose the right so we can be worthy to be called home to our Father in Heaven and His son Jesus Christ.

HAPPY 16TH BIRTHDAY BENJAMIN!! I LOVE YOU VERY MUCH!!!!

10 Months of Craziness

2011-07-29T14:14:00.000-04:00

Ten months ago, Zoie was this sweet, quiet, sleep all day little girl. It was nice. I was able to leave her in a room by herself, go and get myself ready, clean up a bit, make something to eat, etc. Now it is a different story.

Zoie is still a sweet little girl. She can be quiet at times, but she for sure doesn't sleep all day (she does have some lengthy naps though). Thus making my life a little bit more crazy, trying to keep up with her, me and Ryan. But we sure do have tons of fun in the process. Here are some things she has learned, liked, and discovered:

As you can see from the pictures, she is very mobile and loves to climb up onto all the furniture and go a crusin' around the house.
She wants to be played with most of the time and loves to follow mom and dad wherever they go.
She LOVES to get into things she isn't suppose to and has now understood what the word "no" means.
She knows when she is doing something good and when we tell her good job and such. When that happens she gets all happy and excited.
She loves to give kisses!! Especially to her mommy:)
She gives "high-fives"and its cute.
She is no longer army crawlin' and has become quite the crawler.
She loves to eat cheerios, mac and cheese, peanut butter (when we let her), and fruits! She loves to feed herself by hand or with silverware.
She can sometimes say "mom" and "da" knowlingly. But she does recognize who is who and it makes us feel good.
She is cutting some teeth on her top gums.

She loves to play with daddy!

So there you go a few things of Zoie's newest discoveries, likes, adventures and so forth. She is developing her own personality each and every day and we get a kick out of watching her and her little quirks. :)

Staying STRONG in the STORMS of Life

2011-07-24T16:42:00.000-04:00

It is no secret that life is not always going to be easy. Even as we are faithful and obedient, stormy times will come. But FEAR NOT! I am going to share some uplifting thoughts, stories, feelings, and experiences with you so you know you're not alone. I hope that the things I share with you weekly will give you a little more motivation to keep on keepin' on.

My family and I are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. We have the privilege every six months to have General Conference where we get to hear from the Prophet, Apostles, and other General Authorities of the the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. It's a wonderful, spritiual, and uplifting weekend. This last General Conference in April, I remember President Dieter F. Uchtdorf saying we, meaning the members of the LDS church should share the gospel EVERYWHERE, blogs were included in that statement. Thus the reason and meaning for my post. Every Sunday I will share how the gospel has kept me and my family "Staying Strong in the Storms of Life."

We love and enjoy our life very much but our life can get busy and burdensome sometimes. I know through faith and prayer we can get through the storms that comes our way and so can you. YOU'RE NOT ALONE. Hopefully the words I share with you can help you stay strong and overcome those storms, testify to you of the truthfulness of the gospel and to let you know how much love Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have for you.

Christ calming the Sea. Picture by Deseret Books

Unfortunately, I cannot prompt ALL trails to cease. But again, FEAR NOT! The Lord has promised to give us the strength to bear our burdens with ease as we turn to Him and diligently strive to keep His commandments. He promises, "I WILL EASE THE BURDENS WHICH ARE PUT UPON YOUR SHOULDERS, THAT EVEN YOU CANNOT FEEL THEM UPON YOUR BACKS, EVEN WHILE YOU ARE IN BONDAGE; AND THIS I WILL DO THAT YE MAY STAND AS WITNESSES FOR ME HEREAFTER, AND THAT YE MAY KNOW OF A SURETY THAT I, THE LORD GOD, DO VISIT MY PEOPLE IN THEIR AFFLICTIONS" (Mosiah 24:14). He also promises the faithful that "THEY SHALL NOT BE BEATEN DOWN BY THE STORM AT THE LAST DAY; YEA NEITHER SHALL THEY BE HARROWED UP BY THE WHIRLWHINDS; BUT WHEN THE STORM COMETH THEY SHALL BE GATHERED TOGETHER IN THEIR PLACE, THAT THE STORM CANNOT PENETRATE TO THEM;YEA NEITHER SHALL THEY BE DRIVEN WITH FIERCE WINDS WHITHERSOEVER THE ENEMY LISTETH TO CARRY THEM" (Alma 26:6).

Be Not Afraid. Christ is there to help. Picture by Deseret Books

I know these things to be true and testify that Jesus is the Christ and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is the true church today. I ask you to please remember these things, YOU'RE NOT ALONE and always center your life on your Savior, Jesus Christ. As you do so, you will have success in staying strong in the storms of life!

Feeding Herself

2011-07-20T13:11:00.000-04:00

We are teaching so many things to Zoie and its lots of fun. One the most recent things I have been teaching her is to feed herself with silverware. She has always loved to hold the spoon and fork, so I thought why not teach her how to use them. She has not mastered putting food on the spoon or fork yet (so I do that for her), but she has mastered the use of them, which is putting the food into her mouth. She loves to do that. I took this video of her this afternoon. We had Mac & Cheese and Green Beans for lunch. This was Zoie's first experience with Mac & Cheese and she absolutely loved it. Enjoy.

Earlier this week on Monday, Zoie and I had an early start to the morning. We ended up watching a couple movies together on the floor on my pillow. It was a great mother-daughter bonding moment. I love it when she cuddles with me for a while. Anyway, I left the room to go do something and I come back and find her like this.

She was so tired.

We are having so much fun together as a family and are excited for all the adventures to come. Well, there is that. I hope you guys are all having a wonderful wednesday and thanks for stopping by:)

The First of Many

2011-07-17T12:58:00.000-04:00

Zoie loves to pull herself up onto things and walk around all over. It's so much fun. Except the other morning she decided to climb up onto our TV stand and play with the buttons and such. She was a good old time, until she lost balance as she was moving to the other end of the stad and fell down and hit her face. She hit her cheek on the bottom of the stand and now has a little bruise. Poor Girlie.

See that little mark on her cheek? Yep thats the bruise.

I felt so bad for but with a little lovin she recouped and was a champ and went right back to climbing up on the couch. She was good to go. I am sure this wont be the last time she'll have a bruise, especially since she'll be involved in sports.

Can't See

2011-07-16T09:18:00.000-04:00

The other day we put a movie in for Zoie, so we could make dinner. We put in Horton Hears A Who. She loved it. Apparently she couldn't see from where we sat her on the floor and this what we saw when we walked in.

That's better

Binky in mouth and everything. Silly Girlie

The Trouble Begins

2011-07-15T12:35:00.000-04:00

Since Zoie has become very mobile, she has discovered what she can get herself into with a little scoot here and another there. This little bug scooted herself over to the DVDs and pulled the drawer thingy out and dumed them all out onto the floor and played with them. Oh the mess she made, but it did keep her entertained and happy. Sometimes us moms, do whatever we can to make them happy and stay in one spot for a while. Right?! I did that's for sure.

oops! Did I do that? :)

So many to choose from

The Italian Job? Ferris Bueler?

It's so hard to decide

That's the one! The Notebook. She's a Romantic Girlie!!! Love it!

Daddy! Really!

2011-07-13T08:48:00.000-04:00

Ryan put Zoie in her toy basket, just for the fun of it. And Zoie seemed to have fun, but it was right before bedtime, she didn't fuss at all, but you could tell she just wanted to go to bed. She just sat in there and played with her toys. It was really cute.

The entire time she just kept taking her toys and putting them on the ground. I guess she was trying to make more space for herself in her basket. Such a silly, smart girl. When I took her out and put her to bed she was out within seconds of laying her down. She must have been really worn out from playing today.

Crafting Again

2011-07-12T08:29:00.003-04:00

YAY!!!! I am back to crafting again and its been fun. Here is one of the projects I've done since I've been back. Its something very simple and probably done all the time by everyone. But I needed some more color and didn't like the look of cardboard boxes.

I turned our medicine's boxes into something fun and colorful

Started with this "exciting" box ;)

I then measured the sides of the boxes onto two different pieces of scrapbook paper, and then cut them out

And of course I used mod podge to make the box look exciting!!!

And this is how my "medicine boxes" turned out. Aren't they cute?!!

We're Back!!!

2011-07-11T21:04:00.001-04:00

We finally made it back to good 'ole Buena Vista!! We are so happy to be back with Ryan again, we missed him a lot. According to Ryan, he is a husband and a daddy again!! He really missed me and the bug.

We had a really good 4th of July. My town goes all out with a breakfast, festivities, dinner, ceremonies, and an amazing firework show. It was a blast. Here are some pictures of our eventful day!

One of the festivities that happen is a watermelon eating contest and guess who won?! That's right Zoie. :) Just kidding.

Zoie Bug with Grandma on the trampoline (and that's Great Ma on the other trampoline in the background), getting ready to watch the fireworks from our front yard. She didn't enjoy it at first, but eventually got used to it. Oh, and yes that is a Roman Candle on the trampoline. :) We go all out on the 4th, one of my favorite holidays!!!

So excited to see me and have some fun with the sparkles!!!

ooooh.... sparkles.... fire... let me try.

We had so much fun with my family, making memories, discovering new things, and meeting new people. We are very excited and can't wait to see my family at Christmas time. It'll be so much fun!!!!

Baths ... Bubbles ... Brillance

2011-07-04T10:25:00.000-04:00

I mentioned in the last post that Zoie loves to take baths. Well, Grandma gave Zoie a bath and can you guess what she did? She added bubbles and Zoie got really excited and had so much fun with Grandma. Now it's something we are going to have to continue doing every once in a while. She smiled and giggled so much.

Look at those bubbles on her head :)

Splashing and playing with the bubbles

This is so much fun!!

It's Pool Time

2011-07-03T18:33:00.001-04:00

My Mom bought Zoie two cute swimsuits and one can't have swimsuits and not go swimming. So the next thing to do was to get a pool, and that's what my Mom did. She got a little kiddy pool and Zoie loves it!!! At first she was scared to be in there all alone, but once me and Uncle Doz got in she was just fine. Bentley even decided to join us.

Zoie had so much fun playing with the water. I was positive that she would love swimming because she loves to takes baths. I taught her how to splash with her hands and legs. She LOVED it!! I would splash with my hands to show her and she would copy me. So cute, if I say so myself. To get her to splash with her legs, I would hold her right above the water and say "run run run" and she would start running with her legs and splashing water everywhere. We both had so much fun and even got a little tan. :)

Pretty... Pretty... Girl

2011-07-02T10:51:00.001-04:00

Last week Zoie got her first experience with the pain that is beauty. Can you guess what that is?!
...
....
.....
......
.......
........
.........
..........

Yep, that's it, Zoie got her ears pierced! She looks so cute. In my "professional" opinion I think that wearing earrings makes all the difference on a girl. It makes a girl even more pretty, and it sure does for my little girl. Just take a look for yourself:

And here she is enjoying seeing a pretty...pretty...girl in the mirror. :)

Oh she is such an adorable baby. She did really good when we got her ears pierced. It was just like she was getting her shots. She only cried for like 30 seconds maybe a minute. She is such a trooper. Good Job, Zoie!

Meeting the GREATS

2011-07-01T11:22:00.000-04:00

Zoie was able to meet her Great Uncle Matt, her Great Ma, and her Great Pa. She had lots of fun with them, playing on the kitchen tabe, watching us play band hero, going swimming, and much more.

With Great Uncle Matt

With Great Ma

With Grandpa

Nine Months of Newness

2011-06-30T17:47:00.000-04:00

Zoie Bug is now NINE months!!!!

She has learned so many new things. She had four teeth cut through her gums this month, she learned to army crawl and is really good at it, she learned to sit up on her own, she loves to stand up and walk around while holding my hands, she also learned to pull herself up onto things, she learned to say "Mom mom mom"(I just love that), and she learned to splash and kick in the swimming pool.

Zoie did a lot of growing up this month and its been fun to watch. Pretty soon she will be a year and it will be here before I know it.

Loves

2011-06-30T15:27:00.000-04:00

Zoie loves Grandma and Grandpa (my parents). Its so much fun to see her interact with them. She gets all excited when they come into the room. There is so much LOVES to give here at the Thompson home. It's great!!

Grandpa went in to give her a kiss and she grabbed his face and pulled him in :)

She loves to take naps with her Grandma

The Bubbles

2011-06-27T13:51:00.000-04:00

My Dad has these bubbles that blow up and he puts them on water and you crawl inside them and have fun. Having fun is the objective with these bubbles or any other fair ride, right?! Well, Zoie didn't have so much fun with them by herself, so I had to go in with her for a little bit, and even then that didn't help much. But we had a little bit of fun while it lasted.

Could I Be Any Cuter?

2011-06-26T22:31:00.000-04:00

That is what her Onesie says. What do you think? :) Oh and I just love how I can do her hair now. So much fun!! Zoie loves to walk around. When we stand her up she just takes off. I have a feeling she'll crawl for a couple weeks and then will start walking around!!!

Zoie and Aunt Blythe

Me and Zoie

Graduations

2011-06-25T12:17:00.000-04:00

So both my brothers graduated while I've been here with them. My little brother Nathaniel "graduated" from 5th grade and my other little brother graduated from High School.

Us at Nathaniel's Graduation, Congrats!

Josh's graduation was 8pm. Very late for a graduation ceremony. We had to be seated by 730pm. Because it was so late, I had to keep Zoie up past her bedtime. She was pretty good, a little fussy, but good. She slept through the ceremony with my dad and then woke up when we sang the schools fight song.

Zoie and Josh.

Congratulations Josh! Josh will be going to Central Arizona on a Cross Country and Track scholarship. I am so proud of you Josh! Keep doing well! Love you.

Tennis fun

2011-06-24T15:02:00.000-04:00

One of my family's favorite late night activity is to go up to the High School and play tennis. Its a lot of fun!! I'm a little out of practice, but it's a blast to play with everyone again. Here are some pictures, they are a little blurry because we were taking them while we were playing. I love my family!!

Matilda

Dad and Dozer

There's me.

Bentley

2011-06-18T11:08:00.000-04:00

My parents have dog named Bentley. When we first showed up and Zoie got all the attention and Bentley was so jealous. It was hilarious!!! He has slowly warmed up to Zoie and Zoie absolutely loves Bentley. Every time she sees him she gets all excited and starts laughing.

There she is with Aunt Blythe

sorry the flash wasn't on

As you can see from all these pictures, Zoie loves dogs!!

My mom just got another dog, her name is Tess. She is so cute.

Pizza Makin'

2011-06-17T12:31:00.000-04:00

The other day I made my family homemade pizza. It was a long, blah day for me and I wanted to make and /or create something. So my solution was cooking!!! It was a lot of fun cooking. I haven't ever made homemade pizza before, so this was new. My family loved it and told me to be the "pizza maker" in the family. It was pretty funny.

While I was kneading the dough, Zoie came a army crawlin' into the kitchen from the living room to see me. It was so cute. Wish I was able to get a picture of that. I just love her so much!!! However I do have pictures of her sitting on the pool table while my dad was playing pool. She had lots of fun!!!

Styling Hair

2011-06-16T16:48:00.001-04:00

We have been having so much fun this past week. My mom and I went shopping for clothes for Zoie. Mom told me not to bring any out, to make packing and traveling easier. Zoie got so many cute and fun clothes. She also got some bows, clips, and hair ties, oh and some cute shoes!!!

Her hair is finally long enough to do things with. I have been having so much fun doing Zoie's hair everyday. It does take me a while to get it done, because she moves all the time. Enjoy these pictures.

Lil' Monkey

2011-06-11T14:56:00.001-04:00

Ever since Zoie has discovered the use of her feet and legs, she has turned into a little monkey. Whenever we set her down to play, she will normally lean and reach for a toy or object she wants then is on her stomach and once she has a good hold of the toy or object, she then rolls over onto her back and sticks the toy or object between her legs and holds it there while she uses her hands to feels and play. It's funny. Take a look.

Teething Bug

2011-06-07T11:08:00.000-04:00

A few days before Zoie and I left for Las Vegas she started teething. It was quite the few days. My little girl was in so much pain. She had a fever, pretty bad stuffy nose, wouldn't eat very much, and was all cuddly. I felt so bad for her. She is getting her two bottom teeth and one of her top teeth in. Three at one time, I sure bet that is painful. But she is such a trooper and is getting through it.

Here is a picture of her all cuddly. She literally wanted to be cuddled all day long. I wasn't able to get anything done.

so precious. Isn't she?

Plane Rides

2011-06-06T12:49:00.001-04:00

Saturday Zoie and I travelled to DC for our trip to Las Veags to visit my family. It was Zoie's first plane ride. I was very very nervous, but we survived. Zoie was such a trooper. Going through security was pretty easy, it took a whlile to get through, but easy. I felt like a huge, weird, crazy woman walking through the airport. I had a backpack on, Zoie in a carrier on the front of me, and rolling a suitcase. So much stuff!!!!

Zoie was amazing on the plane, she wouldn't sleep while waiting for our flight, but she did sleep for a little bit on the flight to Minnesota. Then we waited for our second flight and she just played around on the floor and made lots of noise. When we finally boarded the plane and it took a wil to leave the airport, but she finally fell asleep before take off. the rest of the tme we just played and watched a movie. Everyone was very nice to us. They loved Zoie and Zoie was very friendly to everyone. At the end of the flight, everyone didn't even know she was there and were very impressed at how well behaved she was. It made me such a proud mommy.

We finally made it to Vegas and we were so excited. My sister Blythe and her boyfriend Justin picked us and we finally made it back to our house and she met everyone and was very excited and happy. A little tired, but we enjoyed seeing everyone.

We are doing great and are adjusting to he 3 hour time difference. My family absolutely loves Zoie and very excited to show her off. Zoie is having so much fun with all the attention. She loves the family dog Bentley, and he is very jealous of her. Its so cute to 1see them together. So there is a little update of our life here in Logandale.

Favorite Spot

2011-05-31T09:55:00.000-04:00

Zoie is so funny! She is a unique individual and is developing her personality every single day. We spend most of our days in the living room playing, talking, and watching movies. Lately she has been rolling around on the floor everywhere. I will put her down in one place and turn around to get something and the next thing I know she is on the other side of the room. I can only imagine how much of a hassle she will be once she learns to crawl. I probably won't be able to look away for a second.

As much as I want Zoie to start crawling, I really don't want her too. I want her too because its fun to watch her learn something new and like it. I don't want her too because it only means she is growing up. I'm not sure I am ready for her to do that quite yet. (Not like I can stop it from happening or anything).

Anyway, back to the reason for this post. I have noticed that Zoie has a favorite spot to hang-out in the living room. She likes to hang-out pretty much anywhere, but tends to go to our computer desk, off the carpet and onto the wood floors.

She just loves that spot, especially while wathcing a movie. She loves Thumbelina and is really a girl!! Zoie is a very entertaining little girl and it makes me so happy to see her happy!

Meaning

2011-05-30T11:14:00.000-04:00

For a while now I have been wanting to bring some type of meaning to this here blog, but couldn't decide what that meaning should be. This blog is sort of our family jounal, which I plan on printing off at the end of each year (I think it would be a fun way for our children to look back at and read). With our blog being about our family and the things we do, the events that take place, and the crazy things we discover, learn, and create I really wanted to have a theme.

After much contemplation about a bunch of different themes and posting it as my facebook status, I finally decided on one (thanks to a long time family friend). If you haven't already noticed, it is "Happiness in the Journey." I went with this one because we are definietely on a journey. This couldn't be more of a perfect fit, because as one of my favorite quotes states, " Everyday is a journey and the journey itself is home." This is SO true and it is our home where we love, cherish, enjoy, and are happy while creating never-ending, never-fading memories on this JOURNEY.

This journey will be filled with much happiness, as Ryan and I watch Zoie and our future children grow and progress. As well as where we will be and what we will be doing. I'm very excited to finally have a meaning to my blog. I hope to share with you all the happiness we experience daily as we embark on this journey which we call LIFE.

Summer Bag

2011-05-29T13:58:00.000-04:00

Summer is here!!! And what a better way to the start the summer off than makeing a fun, colorful, and unique summer bag. The best thing about this is I didn't have to spend a bunch of $$$$$ on one. While I was blog ~~stalking,~~ browsing through one of my favorite blogs Women Who Do It All I found THIS tutorial on how to make a fun summer bag.
My bag is a little bigger than the one shown in the tutorial and has a couple more rows to the patchwork, but that's me. I wanted to make the bag a little bigger for all my mommy stuff. :) I even added a pocket to the inside of the bag. I just love this bag.

There's my pocket. It's orange with flowers.

Isn't it cute?

I don't mean to be cocky or prideful at all, but I do have to say I am very proud of myself. It took a night in a half to complete, lots of patience, and asking Ryan for his opinion. I always feel very accomplished after I complete a project. It keeps me going and keeps me wanting to do more projects.

I have had a few people ask me when I have time to do all my projects. Well... I wait until Zoie is down for the night and work until I am tired. The other night when I was working on the bag, I put Zoie down at 5:30pm and went to work and apparently lost track of time because Ryan came in and said "do you realize it's one in the morning." I had no idea. So yeah... I wait until Zoie is in bed, so I don't have any distractions. (oh and Zoie didn't take her third nap and was really tired and fell asleep all by herself)

Anyway, that's that. Try the tutorial out and make yourself a nice fun, colorful, unique summer bag.

Easier to Find

2011-05-28T19:46:00.000-04:00

Whenever we go out with the bug, I pack up my bag with the essentials (diapers, wipes, toys, wallet, keys, phone, snacks, etc). That's a lot of stuff right?! How am I suppose to find anything in my bag, especially when I desperately need a diaper. I can never find them, they always fall to the bottom of the bag and are all squished up. Moms, have you ever had that problem? I have it all the time.

No more worries, thanks to Ashley over at Make-it & Love-it .She has a tutorial that I was able to make a diaper/wipe case. Which can be found HERE. It took me a while to make, and for some reason I couldn't follow or understand her directions, so at one point I just improvised and made it work for me. Now it fits perfectly in my bag and easy to find and grab quickly.

There is room for diapers and the wipe case!!! All in one deal!!

Now go on and make yours. Make life a little eaiser for you and add more space to your bag! I love mine!!

Zoie at 8 months

2011-05-27T12:43:00.000-04:00

Yesterday so turned 8 months old. Only 4 more months until she is a year old. Don't know if I can handle that. She is growing up so much and much too quickly!!!

Here are her growth stats:
WEGIHT: 17lbs 12 oz
HEIGHT: about 29 inches

She has gained a pound in a half since her 6 month check up and has grown about 2 inches. She definetely takes after her dad in height!! You bet I am going to make a volleyball hitter out of her!!!! :)

Zoie loves to roll over all the place. She is scooting on her stomach and just learned how to get up on her hands and knees. But she can't figure out how to crawl, everytime she tries she falls onto her stomach. Ryan and I think she will "commando crawl" before she actually crawls. Its so fun to watch and cheer her on.

We have so much fun together. Every other day Zoie and I go on a walk up to the University for my attack classes. She loves it. She just sits in the back and plays and talks to herself. She is such a chill baby. The other day she must of been really tired because she fell asleep half way through the class. It was so funny and adorable. She loves the attack and flow music and gets excited every time she hears it.

She loves to give kisses to mommy and daddy. Lately when I have been getting her from her naps, she grabs my face and gives me a kiss and then is ready to play. She is so cute!!! That's our little Zoie Bug.

House Tour I

2011-05-27T12:17:00.001-04:00

A lot of friends and family have asked me to post pictures of our house, so they can see where we live and such. Its been a long time comin' because I wanted to have the rooms decorated a little bit and not make it look so much of a HOUSE but more of a HOME. So to start off, we will begin with our Living Room.

entering from the kitchen

entering from the hallway

I love this wall. I love photo collages!!

sorry its so dark, but its just another window where zoie hangs out

Frustrating!!!

2011-05-26T13:21:00.001-04:00

Hey all... I have a couple posts ready for you, but my computer is once again being weird and the server won't let me upload photos to the blog. SORRY!!!! It's so frustrating.

I am going to figure this out and try to fix it for good. Has this happened to anyone else before and if so what did you do to fix it?

Have a great day and keep on, keepin' it real!! Oh and our little Zoie bug is 8 months today!! YAY!

Headbands

2011-05-24T10:36:00.000-04:00

Last night I wasn't in the mood to fold and put the laundry away, but I did want to do a little project. So I told myself that if I could fold and put the laundry away then I could make my little project. I know, I have to find some crazy, weird way to motivate myself. Little did I know that I could actually make myself do that and guess what. I was able to have a little fun last night making these adorable headbands:

This is a yellow ribbon with a pink ribbon glued into the middle with a bow for a little bit of charm.

Want to add a little bit of SHIMMER and GLAM to your outfit. How about this pink and sparkly silver four-braided head band:

(This one was intended for Zoie, but her hair is weird and this just doesn't look good on her).

These were so simple and easy to make anyone can do it. If you like what you see, I found the tutorial HERE. When I saw this I knew I needed to make some for Zoie and some for me. But be careful because once you get going you can't stop. So what are you waiting for?! Go and make a few for yourself, your mom, your sister, your daughter,or your friend. Then let me know how yours turned out. It'll be fun to see what creative ideas you cans come up with.

The Blue Bonnet Queen

2011-05-23T13:38:00.000-04:00

Saturday I pulled out some plastic containers for Zoie to play with. She had lots of fun. She is in the stage where she will watch us do something and copy us. The other day I taught her how to give a high five and its so much fun to say, "Zoie high five" and she will do it, unless she is more interested in something else. Anyway, I pulled out an old butter container that we have and gave it to her to play with. This is how Zoie became the Blue Bonnet Queen:

Not so sure what to think

I can make noise with it and pick it up. Cool.

Mom what are you doing putting things on my head

Okay, I guess this is fun!!

SMOOCHES...

2011-05-19T22:33:00.003-04:00

The moment you and me have been waiting for. I FINALLY finished Ryan's graduation gift!!!

You ready?

Here it is:

As you can tell this empy wall in the living room was in much need of some spice and character. I think it looks great right there.

Now the colors are not what I had in mind, but I really like how the finished project turned out. For some strange reason I have been in a grey phase and everything I want to make needs to have some grey in it. I really liked how it matched my not so peachish "SMOOCHES." The ribbon I found after I painted "say i love you" on and it matched perfect!!!

This project took me a while to complete. I spray painted (a few times) the base color ivory. I then printed off the saying and cut out the letters and traced them on to the wood. Then I painted the letters and added some ribbon. I think it looks pretty good. I can't wait to do some others. This was a lot of fun!

You may be wondering why would I give this to my husband as a graduation gift. Well... when we were dating and engaged he always said that to me. I thought it was weird because I have never heard anyone use the word SMOOCHES before. Then once we got married he has been wanting a sign in our house that had that saying on it. I guess it is kind of our family motto. That is why I decided make him his sign.

Tell me what you think? What are some sayings or quotes you like to use in your homes?

Haircut!

2011-05-18T23:21:00.000-04:00

I have been wanting a change in my hair. Something new and maybe different. I just knew I need a change. So yesterday I got my haircut. I am still not sure if I like it or not. There are times where I do and others not so much. Its not much of a difference, but to me it feels like a huge difference (about 3 inches), and I have decided short hair is not for me. Well... at least not yet anyways!!!

So what do you all think?

And because I'm the mom and I can, I will post another pictures of my girl. I just can't get enough pictures of my sweet little girl. :) She is so much fun and is in the process of learning how to crawl, almost there, soon.:) We have some good times ahead of us. Can't wait!

Wedding Scrapbook Pt. I

2011-05-17T13:54:00.000-04:00

I love to scrapbook, especially when I have photos and amazing ideas. So, after two years of marriage I finally printed some photos of our wedding and can now begin our wedding scrapbook. I spent the last three days working on these two pages. It took me a while to figure out the design, colors and such.

I had so much fun with this, even ask Ryan. Every idea I had or finish cutting, gluing, etc I ran into the living room and said "LOOK!" OH it was so much fun. I am very excited to finish the album and have it on display in our house. :) What do you think? Any cool creative ideas you wouldn't mind sharing.

Last night I painted Ryan's wood sign. It will be done by Friday. Keep your eyes open for that post!!

Piece of Watermelon

2011-05-15T14:15:00.002-04:00

Is what Zoie tried the other day. We even let her hold the piece by herself ( I was scared that she was going to shove the whole thing into her mouth) but she did a good job and she loved eating watermelon. Zoie loves fruit, which I am very thankful for!!!

We would like to start early with good eating habits, fruits and vegetables, etc. Candy, chocolate, etc not so much. The only time we will let Zoie pig out on chocolate is her 1st birthday because that's a must. After that every so often, depending on how she eats for the day.

Right now she loves peas, squash, pears, and apple blueberries. She will eat carrots and applesauce, but not as much as the others. She doesn't like green beans and bananas. It's so much fun to see what Zoie will like and not like.

Sleeping Habits

2011-05-10T19:33:00.002-04:00

My little girl is the cutest little girl in the whole world. She is letting her personality shine through her eyes, voice, and actions!! Sunday in Relief Society, I sat her on the ground to play while I played the piano and I guess (one of the sisters told me this) when I started to play the piano and everyone started to sing, Zoie just sat there and looked at everyone and smiled!! A lot of the sisters came up to me and asked if that was her personality, always happy and smiling or if it was just a good day and I told them all, that Zoie is always this happy (except for those few occasions), but mostly she is always smiling and in a playful mood. They all absolutely loved her personailty.

Zoie has a "habit." I don't know if you can consider this a habit, but it happens all the time. Everytime Ryan or I lay her down for naps and bedtime, she grabs her blanket and pulls it up to her face,and rolls onto her side, and she falls asleep. It's the cutest thing. Lately, when she wakes up she now rolls onto her stomach and talks and plays until we come and get her. She is so funny and is defintely defining who she is.

sorry it's a little blurry

She has been going down pretty good for her naps and for bedtime. I can just wrap her in her blanket, give her her binky and lay her down and she falls asleep no problem. She really is a good first baby. Don't worry all I know I am spoiled. I am loving every minute of it, though!!

More...More...

2011-05-05T21:27:00.001-04:00

Zoie finally learned to sign "more" with her hands. It was so good and I'm so proud of her. Tonight while I fed her her oatmeal and applesauce, I would sign "more" (which is having your fingertips tap against each other. sometimes it can look like your clapping) and then help Zoie out by doing it for her with her hands and then I would give her some more. The next time around I would do the sign and say more... more... and she would look at her hands in a very determined look and copy me. It was so cute. The next time around all I had to do was say more and she would make the sign. Oh I am so proud of her.

She has also grasped the concept of waving hi and bye. She now does it to everyone who walks by, who is in the room, and who drives by. It's funny. She is starting to understand us a bit. Our little bug is growing up. Here's to the new phase of her baby life. :)

Zoie enjoying the sunshine

Zoie and Mommy having fun with the camera

Just for fun! :) oh I am on my tip toes too.

Finished Bathroom

2011-05-05T21:14:00.001-04:00

So I have been working on spicing up our bathroom. We are renting so I am not able to paint the walls or do certain things. I improvised and did my best to make our bathroom a clean, calming room. I know... how can a bathroom be calming, I'm not exactly sure how to explain it, but there is defintely a calming feeling in there :)

I took our shelf apart and spray painted the boards an ocean blue color and then I painted the rods that hold the shelf together white. I didn't want them to be too white, because I wanted a wishy-washy feel to it. Then I cut out different sized circles from yellow cardstock and mod-podge them all over the shelf. It turned out better than I though it would. What do you think?

Then to add more color, I mod-podge some more yellow and blue cardstock onto a jar the holds our toothbrushes and toothpaste. It didn't turn out as I would of liked but it serves its purpose. It doesn't look too bad, yes?

There wasn't enough room on the shelf for Zoie's bathroom jazz. So I took a little basket and put it on top of the toliet and put her jazz in there and it worked perfectly. I absolutely love it!!!

Our bathroom is nothing fancy or anything special, but it sure does bring a new feeling into our home. Plus, I was able to experiment with some craft ideas and improve my skills. It was fun!!

22 years!!

2011-05-04T20:44:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday to you!!! Happy Birthday to you!!!

Happy Birthday dear Hillary. Happy Birthday to you!!!

On May 3rd I turned 22. I can't believe it and it I feel just the same as I do any other day of the week. However, today is the only day out of the year that I can tell my husband to do anything or not to do anything because it is my birthday. It was a lot of fun. We spent the day just hanging out and relaxing as a family. We haven't been able to that in a very long time.

For my birthday Ryan decided to help me out with my crafty side and get me a craft basket. He is such a great guy!!! He got me this really cute basket and it was filled with: ribbons, paint brushes, paint, paint tray, tacky glue, seam ripper, and a dress pattern. I absolutely love it!! My grandma got me a shirt, really nice scarf, and a very cute necklace. My mother-in-law got me a candle, a cute bracelet, and a very handy amazing travel make-up kit. My parents bought me a ticket to fly home with Zoie for most of the summer. We are super super excited and can't wait until June 4th!!! Now Zoie is still working on her present for me. I told her the best present would be saying mom. She has said it once and it melted my heart. But she can say Hi and wave her hand at people. It's the cutest thing in the world, so that'll do. :)

I got a call from all my siblings and it was so fun to talk to them. They all sound so grown up and enjoying life. I miss them so much and can't wait to see them again.

I didn't get to have my homemade cheesecake for my birthday, but Ryan did make me brownies with a huge layer of funfetti frosting. It's been a while since I've done this, but I was able to make a wish and blow out candles on my brownie cake. I felt like a little kid again.

My current project I am working on is Ryan's graduation present. Since we have been married, he has always wanted a wood sign to hang up in our house that says "Smooches say I Love You." So that is what I am making him. Hopefully it will be done in a week or two. I am taking my precious time on this because I am doing everything by hand. So keep your eyes out for it, it'll be coming soon. Plus I had to wait for my craft basket for the supplies :)

Happy Birthday to me!!!

The Graduate!!!

2011-05-04T20:09:00.002-04:00

Ryan walking

Ryan graduated from Southern Virginia University on 30 April 2011, with his Bachelors degree in English!!! What an accomplishment and a wonderful feeling to be done!! Ryan graduated magna cum laude. He was on the President's List (gpa in the top 10 %), also on the Provost's List (gpa at or above 3.5), and was in the Sigma Tau Delta (International English Honor Society).

It's so nice to both be done. Ryan's parents came down to celebrate, and we had enjoyed their company. It was a lot of fun. Ryan will be doing summer school, to finish up some credits. He is taking a film class, a Jane Austin class, and a computer tech class. Once he is finished with those classes, he will receive his diploma and we will then begin our next step in our wonderful family journey. Zoie and I are so proud of him.

A Family on 7 Months

2011-04-27T15:00:00.001-04:00

We have been a family for 7 months now!! I can't believe its been that long and how much Zoie has discovered, learned, and grown. It has been a tough 7 months but it has also been the best 7 months.
We took family pictures this past weekend. I think they turned out great. Enjoy!

At 7 months Zoie is rolling over all the place. She is enjoying tummy time more and more since she can kind of scoot herself over to her toys, she also scoots when she is sitting up. She can say hi. It's so cute. She loves peas, squash and carrots!!! Green beans... not so much. Next week we get to start her on fruits. It'll be fun. I just can't believe she is growing up, before I know she will be all over the place.

Oh our life is so much fun and always a crazy adventure and the best part is it's only the beginning.

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T20:27:00.001-04:00

Today was a perfect day for Easter. The sun was out with a slight breeze and oh it was so perfect! We woke up this morning and got Zoie and brought her into the living room and guess what the "Easter Bunny" brought her?

Yep, her own litle Easter egg basket!!!

She loved her basket full of colorful eggs, a bunny, a doll and her easter dress, shoes, and pearl bracelet. (pictures of her in her dress to come, don't worry)

She eventually dumped out her basket and played with the eggs and bunny. She had a lot of fun with her bunny. I love the bunny it makes a hopping noise when you shake it :)

After we came home from church, I started making our family Easter dinner. I made a ham with an APPLE RAISIN GLAZE (so amazing), scallop potatoes, fresh cooked veggies, deviled eggs, homemade beans, and homemade EASTER BUNNY ROLLS. Eveything turned out great and I will for sure make this meal every Easter.

Our dinner table

Our Delicious Ham

Our Easter Bunny Rolls :)

And what a better way to top off and great Easter dinner with some amazing homemade Neapoltant pudding pie made by the most amazing, handsome, loving, talented guy in the world. That would be my husband, Ryan in case you couldn't figure that one out:) The pudding pie is layered with chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry pudding with a homemade cool whip frosting. With strawberries and crushed chocolates sprinkled on top. My husband is such a baker :)

I hope you all had a wonderful Easter. What a great time to reflect on the resurrection of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. I know He lives and has provided a way for me to live a happy and joyful life with the loves of my life, Ryan and Zoie.

Necklace

2011-04-24T20:01:00.001-04:00

I want a new necklace!!! One with color and that will stand out. One that is unique. One that is different. One that is homemade!!!! :)

As I was reading a friends blog she made this necklace that she found off of THIS website. When I saw the necklace, I was so excited, because it was something I could make and wasn't too difficult and it was free (because I already had all the supplies). Can't get any better than that, right?

So here is the necklace that I made. It took me FOREVER to make because I don't have a sewing maching so I had to hand stitch everything. I don't know how I had the patience, but I did and I am very glad, because I LOVE my new necklace!!! I can't wait to try other colors and designs.

Easter Outfits!!

2011-04-21T11:42:00.000-04:00

When I was a little girl my mom would make Easter dresses for me and my sisters. She did a really good job at making them. I have decided to follow in her footsteps and do the same for my girls, in this case, Zoie.

Here is her dress that I made and then I made myself a little skirt to match. I was going to make a tie for Ryan, but he told me that I didn't need too, because he can wear his pink tie my parents got him.

We will be taking our family pictures this coming Saturday, so keep a look out for those pictures.

I have a voice!!!

2011-04-20T11:17:00.001-04:00

Zoie has discovered her voice and boy does she love her voice!! :) She is constantly talking, its so cute. She loves her voice so much that when she gets going, she ends up squealing really loud. Zoie loves to play in her little toy saucer. It keeps her quite entertained so I can clean up the house a bit.

Zoie has very fun facial expressions! Sunday she started scrunching her lips together with her cheeks full of air and she will blow until she has ran out of breath. Its hilarious, her face turns red and she will just do that over and over again. It's so much to watch learn new things.

She is slowly learning how to scoot on her butt. She has not got the hang of it yet, but with those toys a little further away from her she tries hard to get them. She also tries really hard to sit up on her own. She tries so hard, but in the end she just stops, cause she has worn herself out. One day she will surprise herself and us with those hard core abs and just sit up.

Ryan has one more day of classes left and then finals week. It's crunch time and he is doing pretty good. He has one more paper to write that is due friday and then we can celebrate the end of classes. He is very excited to be done and give his brain a little bit of time to rest. He has worked really hard this semester and I'm sure he will do great. I'm so proud of him.

I have been busy with being a mom and its been so much fun. Zoie and I love to watch movies together. She knows when I am putting a movie in and she gets all happy and excited. We read lots of books and go on lots of walks.

I love our little family and am so excited for this Easter season and the time we will be able to spend as a family.

Half A Year...

2011-04-07T10:23:00.001-04:00

Our little Zoie Bug is half a year old!!! I can't believe that, she is growing up so fast. We are however very excited for the next phase of her life, her new discoveries, and her new accomplishments. We are going to have so much fun!!!!

At her 6 month check up she weighed 16 lbs 1oz, her length is 27 1/4 in and her head circumference is 15 3/4 in. Yes she has a big head!!!! Ryan and I measured our heads and mine is 22 in and Ryan's is 24 in. WOW!! Oh... Zoie rolled over for us the other week. She knows how to roll over, but just chooses not too. That little stinker. But if you haven't already seen the video check it out HERE .

In honor of Zoie's 6 month mark we had a little half birthday party for her. It was more of a social gathering for Ryan and I since we haven't been able to hang out with our friends for a while. It was a lot of fun. Zoie got to stay up past her bedtime to "play" with her friends, Georgia, Luke, and Lily. Sometimes, kids are really good excuses, so mom and dad can "play" with their friends too. :)

Ryan is doing really well. He has a few more weeks left of the semester and he is done!!! He is very excited. He will be presenting his senior paper this coming week at Virginia Military Institute. They are hosting this symposium, where a bunch of other top scholars and Professors. It's kind of neat and makes me, as a wife, feel very special and proud!! He is such a great, amazing, and smart man!! I love him so much!!!! :)

Me on the other hand, stays at home with Zoie. Which is so much fun. We play, read, she watches me cook, and whole bunch of other silly little things. I have been busy with decorating our bathroom, and making it feel more cozy in there rather than just a plain old bathroom. I am almost done and will post pictures soon. I am currently working on Zoie's Easter dress, my Easter skirt, and Ryan's Easter tie. We are all going to match!!! I'm so weird, I know. It'll be fun, and I plan on having our family picture done around then as well.

3.14

2011-03-19T13:24:00.000-04:00

In honor of "Pi Day" Ryan made a Pumpkin Spice Pie with cool whip, chocolate chips and sprinkled cinnamon on top. I am not a huge fan of pumpkin, but this pie was really good. He did a great job making it. So here is to "Pi Day" . . .

And because I love my little girl here is a picture of her. She can still up perfectly now and its so nice to just set her down and go and do something. We can also put a bow in her hair and it stays fairly well. She is such a cutie pie.