Having a Hoot at the Harris Household!

Mindy Gledhill - Whole Wide World (Official Music Video)

2011-10-19T13:51:00.000-07:00

FotoFly Session

2011-01-28T10:55:00.000-08:00

MeRrY ChRiStMaS!...fiiiinally

2011-01-12T18:07:00.000-08:00

So for Christmas Eve we did our standard dinner party with Aaron's side of the family. It was at Debbys this year. Boston and I performed a piano duet of "Up on the Housetop". So he had piano lessons to prep for last years performance and this years, with pretty much nothing in between! (Except for the piano recital that I;ll post later!) So we came home and the elves had brought jammies and we put the kids to bed. I was thinking in my head, "Should we go over any rules for Bos for tomorrow?" but figured he'd remember from last year or just figure it out. (i.e. wake up, go peel if Santa came, run in and wake us up all excited) Well, my vision did not go as planned. Here was our front work room Chrismas Eve after Santa came: We here Bos wake up at 6:30. About 6:40 I say should we let him be out there this long? And I yell for him to come in our bedroom. He runs in and says he has already opened "like, half his presents". WHAT???!!!! I was so upset! I ran in and showered and cried, while Bos fell back aslee in our bed. He slept until 8:00. Debby and Marty came over at 8:15 and we woke up the boys. This is what our front room looked like: It wasn't all that bad, and we still had the two "best" presents for the boys hidden under the piano, under a blanket. Brock was so cute, hge "got it" this year and kept saying "present!" and when he opened it he'd say "help" and take it to Grandma. We are blessed to have family that spoils us.

Yum-Mo! I love peppermint bark and can't wait to try these Chocolate Candycane Cookies!

2010-12-09T21:17:00.000-08:00

Pioneer Woman again, of course! Here is her recipe for Chocolate Candycane Cookies!

KiNdErGaRtEn HaLlOwEeN PaRtY!!

2010-11-09T15:18:00.000-08:00

I survived!Boston's Kindergarten teadher is the best ever! I love her! I was room mom for the party and we had 4 stations and food. Storytime, by Lilys mom. So fun, Mad Scentist we made Ghost Guts. The recipe is: 1 cup glue (white elmers) food coloring, then mix it with 2/3 c warm water and 2 t Borax Laundry detergent.) the kids loved it. We had pin the eyeball on the ghost game, "Don't Eat Frank!", and a mummy wrap game where you just wrap prizes in toilet paper and re-wrap it and have the kids wrap their arm up like a mummy until they get to their prize then tear it and pass it to the next kid. We did crafts with cute halloween picture frames and a fun paper bat and tottsie pop spiders with pipe cleaner legs, fuzzy head and googly eyes. Then we make popcorn/candycorn monster paws in plastic hand bags with spider rings and ate snack mix of chocolate chex, honey chex, m&m's candycorns, white chocolate chips and pretzels. We ran out of time to frost cookies, and we had a mom mix-up to make witches brew to drink. But they all got fun goody bags with Halloween stuff that wasn't candy, since they are getting enough candy!

The Witches Out at Gardner Village

2010-11-09T14:48:00.000-08:00

Monster Mash Birthday Bash!

2010-10-21T11:23:00.000-07:00

My Brockie Bear turned 2! I can't even believe it. He had a Monster Party and all the creative ideas for this I got from a way talented blooger here. The whole family came over and some friends. We had a fun dinner and party and cupcakes! Brock is at my favorite age. He is starting to talk lots and is so funny and his little personality is such a goof! He always wants to be just like big brother. He is still way small and doesn't eat a thing still. Unless it is candy or some other junk! He loves Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Elmo, being outside, and is a total dare devil, he will go 90 miles an hour down the fromt hill driveway on a scooter, fall over and totally biff it on the pavement and just laugh and get up and do it again. He walks along the back of the couch and will fall right off like it is nothing. He loves to make messes and get into everything! It is hard taking him shopping and out to eat. It seems like Boston was much better at this! Brock won't stay buckled in a cart or his stroller and will attempt to climb out right while you are moving! He doesn't care, he makes his escape like he is jumping out of a sppeding car! I am trying to grow his hair longer. I never could with Bos cuz his hair is much thinner. Brock still has kind of messed up teeth, but it's cute. And his incisors are so pointy he is like a vampire. Brock has brought us so much joy and is such a cutie sweetheart who still loves to snuggle with me and read books! Boston is a great big brother always willing to help out!

Cashew Lime Chicken

2010-09-22T16:53:00.001-07:00

This is what I am making for dinner tonight and it is one of my favorite recipes!
(From Quick Fix Meals by Robin Miller)I love this cookbook too.
1 cup rice, cooked
1 tsp peanut oil
1 tbsp peeled and minced ginger
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/4 lbs chicken, in bitesized pieces
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup hoisin sauce
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp finely grated lime zest
1 cup cashew pieces

Heat oil over medium-high heat. Add ginger and garlic and cook, stirring, one minute.
Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
Add salt and pepper and stir.
Add broth, hoisin, and lime, stir and bring to simmer.
Partially cover the pan and simmer until chicken is cooked through and sauce slightly thickens, about 8-10 minutes.
*You can cool this and refrigerate up to three days.
Serve chicken over rice and top with cashews.
My husband loved this the way it was, but next time I will use less broth and hoisin

Clown Day!

2010-09-15T16:15:00.000-07:00

September VT Message

2010-09-14T11:26:00.000-07:00

A darling red gingham lunch sack is filled with the message (of course), a recipe for Autumn Apple Crisp,two nutritious & delicious fruit leathers - all wrapped together with an apple wrap and a delightful sticker. The message is officially entitled, "Our Responsibility to Nurture the Rising Generation."
So, "Have all the ingredients ready to Nurture & Nourish the Rising Generation" is the title of our gift! And don't forget to "Feed them Spiritually!"

FaLL FaShIoN WiSh LiSt

2010-09-13T13:51:00.000-07:00

Looking good & dressing well is a necessity. Having a purpose in life is not.~Oscar Wilde
Some new boots in a fun color:
Something military, yet feminine:
Some harem pants (am I the only one who likes this trend, I have a feeling I am, but they speak to me!):
A circle scarf:
A funky Cardigan:
A Statement Necklace:
A Quilted Patent Leather Handbag:
Something Animalistic:
A Skinny Belt:

I Can't Wait!

2010-09-10T11:18:00.000-07:00

I am so excited that it has been cooler! I can't wait until the leaves start to change and the air is crisp and we break out the sweaters! I am sure we will still have plenty of days of heat, but I'm pulling out my fall decor today and getting ready for my favorite time of year! (And fashion!)

UNDER THE HARVEST MOON~Carl Sandburg
UNDER the harvest moon,
When the soft silver
Drips shimmering
Over the garden nights,
Death, the gray mocker,
Comes and whispers to you
As a beautiful friend
Who remembers.

Under the summer roses
When the flagrant crimson
Lurks in the dusk
Of the wild red leaves,
Love, with little hands,
Comes and touches you
With a thousand memories,
And asks you
Beautiful, unanswerable questions.

Our little beaver going to town on the Corn on the Cobb!

2010-09-10T11:14:00.000-07:00

2010-08-27T21:37:00.000-07:00

studiomela

Amazon Albums, the way to go

2010-08-25T13:30:00.000-07:00

Francesca Battistelli's album "My Paper Heart" is only $5 on amazon downloads for a few more days. Just got it and love it!

Got Mud?

2010-08-25T08:13:00.000-07:00

Me and cute Brittany got stuck driving up to Girls Camp! We were driving first of all on the wrong road (that map was bogus) and then it had rained the night before but the road looked dry, we weren't sure what to think but decided to go for it, I was jokingly like, "Watch it be quicksand and we totally sink!" Oh wait...we did. We both scream and then Brett was inspired to call my cell, we both somehow had service for that instance and he rescued us! Apparently it was a total washout with a couple inches of dry dirt on top and just feet of sludge beneath! Adventure! Gotta love it!

Also, here is a (bad) picture of the "mormon cricket" in the leaders (my) tent! At least 3 inches, I thought he was going to start talking to me like some mutated grasshopper from a movie! He found a new home in the fire. And no, we didn't eat him. So it rained like crazy, I slept in a puddle of water and woke up thinking "did I pee my pants, WHY am I wet?!" And we had to leave a day early because it would not stop raining! (We just had dutch oven dessert and testimony meeting with the bishopric that night at the church instead.)
Here is Brock with my girls:

My sig oth brought me home flowers!

2010-08-19T18:02:00.000-07:00

Greek Pasta Salad

2010-08-19T17:51:00.000-07:00

This is what I made for dinner tonight:
Orzo pasta (or whatever you have, I used mini wheels)
Bunch of fresh Spinach
Olives (I used an assortment of greek and green, just go to the olive bar at Harmons and load up on whatever!)
Artichoke hearts (I used 1 can non-marinated)
1/2 Red Pepper chopped
1/2 Green Bell pepper chopped
1/2 orange pepper chopped
1 cucumber chopped
Sundried tomatoes (Or you could use cherry tomatoes)
You can add red onion or broccolli or any vegetable you want, but I stopped here
Feta Cheese
about a cup cubed cooked chicken
Dressing:
1/2 cup EVOO (Extra-virgin Olive Oil)
Zest of one lemon
Juice of one lemon
1 TB balsamic vinegar
1 clove garlic minced
Then I used a handful of "Cavender's All Purpose Greek Seasoning" but you could do 1 tsp garlic powder, dill weed, oregano, etc. Marinate at least an hour.

I'm craving a...

2010-08-19T12:40:00.001-07:00

Nutella & Banana Sammie:
-Toast 2 slices of bread
-Spread generous amounts of Nutella on both sides
-Place a sliced banana on either toast
-Squeeze both toasts together and enjoy!

It's What's for Dinner!!!

2010-08-10T22:52:00.000-07:00

So if you live in the area(or if not she DELIVERS!) you must check out Debbie's Delectables Blog. She cooks dinner for me and others a couple times a week and it is mucho fabuloso! Smacking of lips! YUM!
Example:
Wed. Aug. 11-Chicken & Shrimp Fajitas, Refried Beans, and Homemade Salsa
Here is a meal from the other day at my home: She also has fabulous cheesecakes and other desserts!

Ambition...Can You Handle It?

2010-08-09T09:53:00.000-07:00

Most women never stop long enough to think through the fact that they wouldn't have so many problems if they didn't have so much AMBITION. Ambition is a natural source of drive and energy that lies somewhere in a person's psychological DNA. Women without much ambition are comfortable with staying the same and settling for less than their potential.

You however, are someone who has decided to pursue her dreams and accept the challenge to live with goals. It is not that you are better than others. You simply are someone who is living out her ambition. Ambition causes you to wake up early and then work late to meet deadlines. Ambition causes you to rise again after a repeated fall. Ambition drives you to succeed after experiencing failure.

Here are some tips and self-leadership questions to help you make the most out of your God-given ambition:

Remind yourself often that just beneath your frustration lies AMBITION. It is a resource always available to you. Self-Leadership Question: Do I stay frustrated too long?
Learn to celebrate your efforts even when the results fall short of your goals. Refusing to accept defeat and mediocrity is no small thing and you should give yourself a pat on the back on occasion. AMBITION causes you to keep your standards high and your goals strong. Self-Leadership Question: Do I celebrate my efforts or do I have a defeated mindset?
AMBITION can diminish over time if action is not taken. Although it can be restored, your AMBITION will lose its power if ignored. Self-Leadership Question: What actions should I be taking to release my ambition?

Definition: AMBITION. Noun. A cherished desire; "her ambition is to achieve her business goals." A strong drive for success.

Try to accept your Ambition and refuse to give in to mediocrity!!!

Just beneath frustration lies your Ambition! This is something to be thankful for.

First Day of Kindergarten!

2010-08-06T15:11:00.000-07:00

Just in time for Back-To-School Cool!

2010-08-02T22:40:00.001-07:00

Check out this tutorial on The Paper Pony for some fun Cereal Box Notebooks. I just got a bunch of uglies for .10 or whatever at Target,but now they will become masterpieces!

Waterford Upstart Grad!

2010-07-28T20:33:00.000-07:00

Bos with Rusty and Rosy!

2010-07-28T20:31:00.000-07:00

Cowboy Bedroom

2010-07-28T20:29:00.001-07:00

Part I:

A Work of Art

2010-07-28T15:57:00.001-07:00

Me and my Bestie went to an art class and this is what I made! Thank you very much

Jane Austen's Fight Club

2010-07-25T19:11:00.000-07:00

I Love Monkey

2010-07-24T14:17:00.000-07:00

This book is just the cutest thing ever, it is beautifully illustrated and has a wonderful message of being yourself and it has a monkey, what more could you ask for? Love it! Recommend it!

My To Do List for Today...

2010-07-19T17:47:00.000-07:00

CHECK!

Summer Updates!

2010-07-14T10:44:00.000-07:00

Last day of Preschool!
Boston with his teacher Miss Kris. So I went and picked Boston up and had him say goodbye to everyone and hug his teacher then we were in the car on the way to see TOY STORY 3 and I am like "Sad huh Bos, you're all done at Small Wonders!?" Well pretty much I made him cry. I look back and he is crying and saying he wanted to go there a little longer and he's never going to see Brooklyn again! And what about Miss Kris?! He barely calmed down in time to see the movie. It was sweet and sad and cute.

BROCKSTAR ATTITUDE!

So the other day I walked in on Brock in my bedroom and he had gotten into my $30 brand new jar of Mary Kay hydrating cream and smeared it all over him, the bed, and emptied the jar. I freaked out for a sec, then reminded myself to laugh, give him a hug, and take a photo! It didn't come out of his hair for days I swear.

Boston and Jane on their date with just us moms to the gateway and Clark Planetarium. Boston loved all things space, this was a new found interest!

Bostons FIRST sleepover after our date night to celebrate graduating preschool.

Brock is doing a lot better talking now. He says shoes, cookie, hello, E-I-E-I-O, ball, elmo, Buzz, Woody, more, milk, all his animal sounds, he doesn't say yes or no, but will shake his adamantly yes or No! He loves chocolate, candy, ice crea, pretty much anything excpet what I make for dinner. We have been going swimming and both boys love it. I can't believe Boston starts kindergarten in a few weeks and Brock turns 2 in a little over 2 months! (He is still in 12 month clthes by the way!)

Quote of the Moment...you know how I love me my quotes!

2010-06-17T22:14:00.000-07:00

Just for Fun

2010-06-15T16:55:00.000-07:00

Small Wonders Preschool Graduation Program

2010-06-14T22:38:00.001-07:00

Sunday Best

2010-06-14T21:59:00.000-07:00

The Best Boys Hair Product!

2010-06-14T21:50:00.000-07:00

My friend Brooke introduced me to this and it is absolutely freaking fabulousness. It is from Beyond the Zone and it is called Spike It hair cement. You just get it at Sallys and it is only about $5! It lasts forever, holds so well for your little guys faux hawks, spikes, whatever, it works well dry, doesn't make hair sticky or wet looking and washes out so easy with no residue or build up! Check it out on my handsome model!

Summer Schedule

2010-06-07T08:55:00.000-07:00

She is supermom, I'm going to try and see what I can implement this summer...

courtesy of Grace Violet

Quote of the Day

2010-06-04T13:51:00.000-07:00

Limiting Beliefs~
Have you become addicted to limiting beliefs? Do those
limiting beliefs soothe you and comfort you while at the
same time holding you back?

In the short term, it can be much easier to tell yourself
you can't do it. Yet when you look at the big picture, it's
much better to go ahead and do the work of achievement.

You can comfort yourself today by believing that your lack
of progress is not your responsibility. However, you'll soon
be paying for that short-term comfort with long-term regret.

It is difficult work to acknowledge and follow the best of
your possibilities. And it is well worth the effort.

For your dreams are calling to you, and they'll never be
satisfied until you do something about them. You have what
it takes to reach them, and they know it.

Break free of your dependence on limiting beliefs. And
achieve the great things that only you can bring to life.

Ralph Marston

Why didn't I think of this?

2010-06-04T11:41:00.000-07:00

Homemade Mozzarella sticks that is. The Pioneer Woman strikes again with her genius! I am trying it this weekend and the best part is, Panko and String Cheese is on sale at Smiths!Grab the panko breadcrumbs.
You’ll need a bunch of string cheese—one string cheese per two fried mozzarella sticks you’d like to make.
You’ll need a bowl of flour…
A couple of eggs…
A little milk…
And some dried parsley flakes.
Add the parsley flakes to the panko crumbs…
And stir them together with a fork. Now, you could certainly sprinkle in a little salt, garlic salt, or other seasoning mix—even a little cayenne pepper—but I wanted to keep things simple. I don’t think the crumbs really need much help.
Next, splash a little milk into the eggs…
And whip it together with a fork.
Finally, unwrap as many pieces of string cheese as you need…
And just slice them in half with a sharp knife.Now, this is just a great, basic way to bread basically anything with panko crumbs. Use this method for everything from chicken tenders to zucchini spears. In this case, just set one of the pieces of mozzarella in the bowl of flour…
And roll it around to lightly coat.
Next, dip the flour-coated mozzarella in the egg/milk mixture.
Coat it completely…
Then place it straight into the seasoned panko crumbs.
Rather than roll it around and disturb the coating, I just use my hand to scoop panko crumbs on top of the mozzarella so that it’s adequately coated.
Pat it gently to make sure it’s all coated with crumbs, then gently remove from the crumbs…

And place on a clean tray or cookie sheet.
Repeat until all the pieces are coated.
Now—this is an important step: Place the tray, uncovered, directly into the freezer for 20 to 30 minutes. This will flash freeze the mozzarella sticks (at least partly), which will help them stay together better when it’s time to fry, and will also keep the mozzarella from melted too quickly when it hits the hot oil.
When you’re ready to fry ‘em up, heat a good inch to an inch-and-a-half of canola oil over medium heat. Medium high or high, at least on my stove, proves to be a little too hot for panko crumbs. Medium’s about right, but you can sort of gauge your stove and see what you need to do.
Pull the frozen sticks out of the freezer…

And carefully add a few to the hot oil.
Oh! And I always feel like saying this: be careful with pans of hot oil if you have cute little roly poly kids walking around the house. I always, out of habit—even now that my roly poly kids are getting bigger—keep pans on the back burner of the stove (handles far out of reach) if I’m going to fry with oil. It’s just one of those things that crawled into my brain at an early stage of parenting, and something I’m going to keep bugging you about anytime I share a recipe that involves frying with hot oil.
Hope you don’t mind.
Things will move quickly—be ready to roll them over to the other side when the first side gets brown. The trickiest part of making these is getting the oil to just the right temp in order to melt the cheese without burning the crumbs, but it isn’t difficult to get the swing of it right away. Keep in mind that the cheese will continue to soften/melt after you remove them from the oil.

When they’re nice and golden, remove them to a paper towel-lined plate.
Yum! Look at the yummy panko breading. If I took a bite of this, you could hear the crispiness in Yonkers
Pretty dish.
Pretty dish filled with marinara sauce.

My kids and husband were gathered around as I was taking these photos. I had to beat them away with my tongs.
Because I wanted to try one first.
The Verdict: Perfection. These are not your typical run-of-the-mill fried mozzarella sticks. The panko crumbs absolutely make them. They add a much-needed crispiness and texture to this widely loved (but sometimes tired) bar-and-grill food. You’ll love them!
And remember: use this flour-egg/milk-panko breading process on any number of things:

chicken tenders
zucchini spears
raw, deveined shrimp
sweet potato sticks

The list goes on!

Recomended Reading

2010-06-04T11:33:00.000-07:00

I LOVE the Julia Grey series by Deanna Raybourn. There are 3 and another one on its way. Also she has another book outside the series that is pretty good too. It is a 1890's British Mystery Romantic Suspense. The fist sentence reads:
"To say that I met Nicholas Brisbane over my husband's dead body is not entirely accurate. Edward, it should be noted, was still twitching upon the floor." You'll read the whole thing in a weekend I promise. Soo good! Just beware of the book covers as she seems to be obseesed with cleavage, but a Fabio Romance novel, this is not I assure you.

Down on the Farm

2010-06-02T20:57:00.000-07:00

A Day at the Splash Park

2010-06-02T20:53:00.000-07:00

I took the boys and one of Boston's friends on a walk today to see the horses. On the way back we decided to go to the Splash Park cuz it was hot and no one was there. This is the first time we've gone this year, first time ever for Brock actually. He LOVED it! I can't wait to take him swimming he is going to be insane.

Transportation Bedroom

2010-06-02T20:49:00.000-07:00

Brock's Room

Recent Projects

2010-06-02T20:37:00.000-07:00

I got this old window pane at the Antique store. Here is the before:I painted it and did this fabric in it that I love (it is moda freebird, if you are swooning too)hung it in my fam room and voila!
New wall color in living room

Cheap kitchen bar stool before and after:

These are a Few of my Favorite Things

2010-05-26T08:14:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite things in my house is this iron birdcage I have above my kitchen cabinets, it is so fun to trade out decor with the season and spice it up.

Sunday at Grandma's

2010-05-18T17:26:00.000-07:00

Janele, Marty and Carla took pictures of the boys last Sunday outside at Grandmas. Pay no attention to how absolutely FILTHY my kiddos are!

The Pioneer Woman

2010-05-18T17:16:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love her, the total queen of blog land? She is so awesome and I love her site, her ideas, her recipes, wow. Here is what she is cooking up now:
Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Quesadillas
Here’s what you need: Flour Tortillas, Monterey Jack Cheese, Pineapple, Cilantro, Chicken Breasts, and Barbecue Sauce…and whatever spices you’d like to use to spice up the chicken. For the rest of the recipe go here. I love it because she always shows you step by step photos!

Disney Hips Up

2010-05-18T17:08:00.000-07:00

Okay...these are too freakin' adorable huh?!

Raspberry Refresher

2010-05-18T16:38:00.000-07:00

At my Domestic Divas night a few weeks ago we had this yummiest drink that I had to share! It is so simple, just frozen rasberries, a 2 liter of Squirt, and a container of frozen White Grape Raspberry juice. It is so easy-peasy, and oh so delishee? (Okay that was a lame rhyme, but you get the idea) I made it for mothers day. FYI it tastes extra, well, tasty, if you have Sonic-type ice in your glass like Shanelle did. Enjoy!

Dream a little Dream...

2010-05-14T11:02:00.001-07:00

...that this collage wall and room was in my house! Luvin' it! You gotta zoom in and look at all the details!

2010-05-14T11:00:00.000-07:00

MAY VT Message

2010-05-14T10:39:00.000-07:00

Favorites from April General Conference

I Enjoy Being a Girl!

2010-05-12T08:53:00.000-07:00

I had a great Mother's Day. My MIL had to work and my own mommy dearest was in DC for work. I was sad, but also enjoyed being the star mother of the day, so to speak! I did cook my own dinner, but I wanted to. Just a crock-pot roast and the goods. Boston made me darling stuff at school and church and in his primary class I got to participate in a fun game where 3 moms, one being me, stood behind a curtain and the kids asked questions assigned. Boston got to ask me a question, it was how tall are you? I said I was "five eight" not sure he even knows what that means, but whatever. And then I was asked a few other questions from other kids. At one point I heard Boston say "My mom is not up there!" Another child actually guessed it was me. The other 2 moms with me had their own children guess them right! But Boston was so surprised and they had him come up to the front and he gave me the biggest hug and would not let go! He was so sweet, it was fun. As I was going to bed I found a hand made card from Aaron (I told him to not give me a gift because I didn't want to spend money) It was so sweet! The front he drew stick figures of him, me and the boys and it said: "Who Has the Bestest Family?" you open it: "We Do! We Do! All thanks to you! Thanks mom you're the bestest Love Aarink (his dad calls him that) Thanks for being a great Mom. If you ever doubt that just look how awesome the boys are, all because of your great mothering. Yes please! (that is an inside joke) Love ya"
I love Rhonna Farrer

"Someone's been sleeping in my bed...

2010-05-12T08:30:00.000-07:00

...but it wasn't me on this past Saturday! My friend and I participated in the GOLDILOCKS bike ride. We biked a total of 18 miles! Go us! (Even if we did break for lunch during it) It was way fun and we even got a medal! So cute! We didn't even get to train that much because the weather has been so stinkin cold and rainy! Plus, oh ya, I didn't know how to ride a bike when we started! Yes, yes of course I did once in a time long long ago, but I had forgotten! What they say about "it's like riding a bike you never forget" Uh Ya actually you do! It was a rought start and I felt totally stupid, but only for the first day or two. Now I am pro, well not really, but I must say I rocked my 20 year old Schwinn! And yes it isn't a street bike, but so what?! So here I am in all my glory, do I look like a dork or what?! I know!

Boston was in awe...

2010-05-04T22:34:00.000-07:00

at the Comic Book store! They had a big event with Star Wars bounty hunter guys, cool comics and toys. He went with his dad and they also went to the Toy Store and to this big animal adoption thing to look at animals. It was fun for them!

Happy Birthday to ME!

2010-05-04T22:13:00.000-07:00

PF Changs for dinner with my mom and bro. Yum-o! Brock loved the chopsticks...and the Dairy Queen Cake my mom got me! Good times! I had a faaaabulous birthday. Aaron got me flowers and a sweet card and a huge Pureology Conditioner, a King size Watchamacalit, and Oma and Opa gave me some money that I bought some clothes with. Brad and Michelle got me a nice card and cash that I got paint and craft stuff. My mom gave me a CD, Uchtdorf book and a card and money that I got my hair done with, love her. Steph gave me a purse, some darling bird plates, some stationary stuff for MK, and a necklace. Too good to me! She's the best. Janel and Marty were so kind as to get me a cute home item and some flower pins from her store. Debby got me an awesome fountain for my backyard, and a Pier One Gift Card. She is so thoughtful too. YAY!!!

April Message

2010-04-19T13:10:00.000-07:00

"It's Time to Bloom! Seek & Receive Personal Revelation and watch your testimony GROW..." Includes the full message, a package of flower seeds,
and a yummy chocolate treat!

Thank you She Shops Smart!

2010-04-15T01:10:00.000-07:00

I went to Smiths today, sans coupons, but still stocked up on Quaker Oatmeal 10/$10! Yay!
Meal Plans for the week:
Breakfast
Oatmeal, oranges, toast and apple juice
Cold cereal, strawberries and orange juice
Bacon, Eggs and Toast
Breakfast Casserole with smoothies
Cinnamon rolls and milk
Cereal, yogurt and fruit

Lunch
Peanut Butter and Jelly with celery, peanut butter and raisins
Turkey Wrap Ups, carrots, celery and dip
Grilled Cheese sandwiches with tomato soup and goldfish
Tuna sandwiches, pickles and Sun Chips
Lunch ables and yogurt for weekly play date
Chili and baked potatoes

Dinner
Grilled steaks with mashed potatoes and steamed veggies
Make your own Quesadillas night with beans and rice
Lemon chicken, wild rice and asparagus
Cola roast, carrots, celery and homemade bread sticks
Make your own pizza night with salad and bread sticks
Homemade chicken tenders and French fries with green beans

Snacks
Celery and peanut butter
Chips and salsa
Veggies with dip
Fruit snacks, cheese and crackers
Trail Mix

Dessert
Marshmallow popcorn
Strawberry shortcake
Homemade ice cream sandwiches

Shopping List
2 Loafs of Bread $5.00
3 Gallons of Milk $6.00
1 Peppers $2.00
1 Head of Lettuce $1.00
1 Stalk of Celery $1.00
2 Lunchables $4.00
1 Package of Tortillas $.64 this week with coupon
Quaker Cereals: This leaves me with about $30 to stock up with!

I will get the hang of this one day.

Kids List

2010-04-09T16:29:00.000-07:00

Kiss the kids when they fall down, read them stories, praise them when they share,teach them to be kind, to knock on a door before they enter a room, to put their toys away, to put the toilet seat down when they finish. Play Chutes and Ladders, take them to museums, the zoo and funny movies. Listen when they tell me something. Encourage them to sing, to build, to paint,to glue and paint, to hug their grandmas. Teach them to cook at least one thing, make them eat their fruits and veggies, get them in swimming lessons, let them have sleepovers with their friends where they watch movies, eat pizza and popcorn. Give them one gold dollar from the Tooth Fairy for each lost tooth. Make certain they don't choke, drown, or ride their bike-skateboard-scooter, without a helmet. Volunteer in the classroom, always be on time picking them off and dropping them off, go to extra lengths with Halloween costumes and the like, Christmas stockings, Valentines. Take them sledding and then make hot chocolate with marshmallows. Let them have an extra turn on the slide, notice when their pants get to short or their shoes get too tight, hang up their art work. Tell them every single day how much I love them.Be there for soccer goals, building sandcastles, in their classes at school. Always have them say please and thank you. Put my arms around them when they are sick, hurt or sad. This is my kids List. I love my Bos Man and Brock Star!

I LOVE DARE YA!

2010-04-06T21:15:00.000-07:00

So it has been a bit chilly in my house lately....by that I mean me, I have not been very fun to live with, I am sure my hubby would call me a "nag", and I have a mile long list of complaints about him. So I figured something needed to change! I bought this book "The Love Dare" probably a year ago. It is a 40 day challenge that you commit to. I recommend it, and it goes in to a lot of detail more than I am sharing here. But anyone who wants to join me, let's begin...(oh and I am also going to apply it to my children so I don't yell so much and lose my patience, I'm not really all that bad as I am making it sound, but life around here definitely needs improving and so where better to start than with me?)
DAY ONE: "RESOLVE TO DEMONSTRATE PATIENCE AND TO SAY NOTHING NEGATIVE TO YOUR SPOUSE(AND KIDDOS) AT ALL. IF THE TEMPTATION ARISES, CHOOSE NOT TO SAY ANYTHING. IT'S BETTER TO HOLD YOUR TONGUE THAN SAY SOMETHING YOU'LL REGRET."
Then Journal about your experience.

So I will see how it goes tomorrow!

2010-04-04T08:53:00.000-07:00

With all the new In and Outs cropping up here, we asked Boston if he has ever been to one. He nas, in Las Vegas. But he said "Uh,Ya, they have them in heaven!"

When Did I Get So OLD???!!!!

2010-03-29T10:06:00.000-07:00

This is so not cool, I have always had a few random grey hairs popping up since I was probably 18. Well, the other night I was looking in the mirror and I have SOOOOO many greys coming in my roots. It is a very distressing image. And it is all through my hair pretty much, I want to cry! I don't mind getting older, really I don't, I like being in my 30's, but all of the sudden I realized, "Oh my gosh, I have been married almost 10 years, I am turning 32, this is the time that you always picture as your "future" and now I am living it, my future is here, now. Well, I need to actually start LIVING more and thriving instead of just surviving. So, I will have to get my hair done a little more often to cover these greys, so what, right? Ya, whatever...

BeAuTy TrEnD RePoRt SpRiNg/SuMmEr 2010

2010-03-24T09:39:00.000-07:00

Click here for an exclusive peek at the Spring 2010 Trend Report!

One Life to Love... Updates

2010-03-24T08:57:00.000-07:00

Brock is almost 18 months! He still isn't saying very many words and he is still SO small! But so stinkin' cute and fun. He is an excellent helper, he helps me unload the dishwasher, can do the silverware all by himself and hands me the rest. he tries to sweep the kitchen floor with a broom which is so funny. He always brings Boston his toohpaste and toothbrush in the morning and his backpack for school. He is practially running now. he can tell you what a dog, cow and bee say and can make fishy face. He points to horses all the time when we are driving and yells. He loves to sing and dance (and watch Dancing with the Stars) He is fearless at the playground. He folds his arms for the prayer (for a second anyway) We enjoy reading books together. He likes to play Peek-a-Boo and loves to laugh and laugh and laugh, it is the best sound ever I swear! Especially when you throw him up in the air, dangerous? Probably. So cute and fun? Definately. (We throw him pretty high) And he wants to do whatever his brother is doing and have whatever Boston has. He is smart even if he doesn't talk really, he understands you and obeys very well. Brock has 12 teeth and two more almost in! He likes to brush his teeth, but he doesn't want his kiddy toothpaste, he likes the hot mint stuff! He will eat whole cinnamon altoids one after another and salsa, hot tamales, he likes it HOT! He loves to wave hi and bye, like crazy fanatic wave. And to see a train and say choo choo, well almost, (that is what I interpret anyway.) Also, he is a total monkey! Climbs all on everything (and falls) I seem to have to keep my eye on and chase him way more then I ever did Bos. Boston has become an excellent reader, he has been reading since he was four, but now he can read anything that isn't too hard. I am a very proud mommy. I have been blessed with such good kids. I know every mom probably thinks that, but really, mine are awesome! Aaron's work is still short on hours, I need to make lots more money in Mary Kay! I have been in Young Women for almost 3 years, but I like it better now than I ever have, so I don't know if I want to be released, or if they will ever release me! I have been riding my bike with Stephanie and I hadn't ridden a bike for YEARS. It was hard and I was scared and felt stupid! But now I am better, mostly, I still can't turn very sharp, but we are training to ride 15 miles. So far we have gone 7. I'm pretty gosh darn proud of myself! Maybe I will get in shape a little. It is sad how I have let myself go since having Brock. I have 6 students I teach piano to right now and maybe will be taking more. I don't know, I don't hate it, but I don't love it either. It depends on the student ;) I am a horrible journaler and that's all I can think of right now! My camera is still broken so I have no new pics, I am so sad!

Je Suis Reconnaissant

2010-03-18T21:13:00.000-07:00

Tonight I went to a Mary Kay dinner where we had some special guest speakers. One being Yvette Franco, Mary Kays Vice President of Marketing (big deal) and National Sales Director Suzanne Brothers. I totally am so grateful to be a part of such an amazing company. I just wanted to write what I learned so I don't forget. Mary Kay Ash herself made sure we never tested on animals. I knew this. However what I did not know was that Yvette and her team travel to different countries to research different ingredients and stuff and they won't even do business with another company that tests on animals. A lot of cosmetic companies say they don't test on animals, but they purchase ingredients from a company who does. Awesome! Also, she talked about how we don't have some items on the market that other companies do. For example a lip plumper. If you have tried a lip plumper it kind of burns right? Well Mary Kay has researched and can't find the ingredients that actually do plump your lips and that are comfortable. They don't want to produce anything that causes any discomfort in any way. Also, they will not put anything on the market unless it can be undeniably scientifically backed to do exactly what it claims to do and is proven. Other companies make claims and aren't 100% accurate. We have integrity and such a high standard to deliver only the best to our clients. Awesome! In a recent survey that Mary Kay did to regular customers out in the world, 9 out of 10 are completely satisfied with their Mary Kay, other companies would kill to have this. I am part of a company where our mission is to help women look better, feel better, and maybe even BE better. No other company can say this I believe. There also is nothing out there like our Miracle Set, there might be other products that do part of what we do or that have similar ingredients and properties, but as a set, the results you see completely overall and for the price there is nothing out there better! I whole heartedly believe this. Mary Kay studies and looks at trends constantly, not only fashion and color trends, but social trends as well. For example, the economy in the past year and a half has changed peoples behavior in a permanent way in how they spend their money. If it is not of VALUE to them, they won't spend money, I know I don't. Our job in Mary Kay is to provide something of VALUE that people will feel good about spending their money on. Another trend is technology and this digital age. Mary Kay is on top of that 100% and offers every kind of technological advancement to its consultants and to our customers. Also, we are AUTHENTIC, we a real company with heart. Another social trend is that women are wanting to BE BETTER. Better moms, wives, women. I do. I am proud to say that I am part of something meaningful. Women want a meaningful life. In Mary Kay I a, striving to become a Sales Director which I believe is the best job in the whole world for women. You get paid stupid money and you live a meaningful life, you can't succeed in MK until you help someone else succeed. We all want to be better, not perfect, but better. I know Mary Kay helps me be better. Tammy, my National shared how her daughter Nikki recently graduated from Paul Mitchell Hair Academy and her and her mom were visiting another National Sales Director in Tennessee, they were going to the CMA's and stuff. Ya know, they are rich so, anyway Nikki is also friends with this Nationals daughter who is her same age 24. They asked Nikki what she wanted to do with her career. SHe said she wants to be famous and not just cut hair but do like movie stars and stuff, she was raised in a MK home which means a ICAN DO HAVE BE ANYTHING attitude. So they mentioned this Nationals hair stylist does hair for the grammys does lots of famous people there and they think he is looking for an assistant. Well Tammy and NIkki go home and forget about it mostly until a phone call comes and he really is looking for an assistant and Nikki can come audition. They buy an expensive plane ticket and get her there 2 days later. Stay with me here. So the audition is doing hair for the Miss Kentucky Pageant. 60 women 3 hairstyles each. One of her gals hair she did won and she got the assisting job to this famous hair dresser. She is living her dream. It cost $13000 to get her moved across the country and set up in a nice place, etc. But that is easy for Tammy to pay. Nikki would not have had this awesome amazing opportunity if Tammy wasn't in Mary Kay and wasn't friends with this National. (Her first client was Trace Atkins wife!) I don't ever want to tell my kids that they can't have their dream because we can't afford it. And I don't ever want my kids to think they aren't good enough and can't do it because that's what they saw from me. You will remain the same until the pain of remaining the same is greater than the pain it takes to change. I am at this pont. If I keep doing what I have always done I will keep getting what I alwys get, this is not suitable for me. "Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved."
Helen Keller

March Visiting Teaching

2010-03-08T13:43:00.000-08:00

The message from the Ensign this month talks about using
personal scripture study to strengthen your faith in God...
The tag is supposed to remind us that we are indeed "LUCKY" to have the scriptures... as we study them...we are strengthened...we are urged to become scholars...and yes, all sisters can do it!
A pic of the inside cover after opening the book...
And the inside with the entire message from the Ensign
And the back page... with the (of course) treat!
A Symphony bar and the message to
"Join a Worldwide Symphony of Sisters Studying Scriptures"

The Person of your Tomorrow

2010-02-26T10:13:00.000-08:00

"Within you the person of your tomorrow is struggling to get out. AWAKEN YOUR HOPES within and the gifts within you ready to be brought forth. These gifts are free, but the success and happiness they bring must be brought forth through effort, commitment and DISCIPLINE. It is FAITH, not reason, that will be your guide. Your person of tomorrow will be determined by how you see with FAITH-FILLED eyes ToDaY. Through faith you will see a vital emerging mAgNiFiCeNt YoU. You are writing your life story.
~Words and Wisdom of Mary Kay Ash

Anthropologie Bedding~ where have you been all my life?

2010-02-20T10:56:00.000-08:00

So I realize a lot of people probably already know of this gem, but I have only glanced in the store or in a catalog at Anthropologie's bedding, (I usually look at clothes or jewelry or knick knacks) well I finally went online after going in there last weekend with Steph and Aaaaahhhh! (that's ah! as in angels singing, not ah! I just saw a mouse) I have finally found bedding I like that I have so long been searching for my room! (even if it is quite pricey, it is still doable I think)

Happy Heart Day!

2010-02-20T10:52:00.001-08:00

After Boston's birthday party, Jane had her Valentine's Party. We told Boston to kiss Jane on the cheek, but they just went for it!

Stephanie's saint of a mom babysat the kids and we went to Thaifoon-yummo!!! and to see Valentines Day-so cute of a movie I thought. I am getting more and more into sappy love shows lately. Go figure!

Boston's 5th Birthday Party....Star Wars style!

2010-02-20T10:20:00.000-08:00

So Boston's party was a little, late, but since we were in Disneyworld and I promised him he could have a friends party, better late than never! He has wanted a Star Wars party for a while and the past birthdays have just been family and friends of the family and we have gone somewhere, but this time, I was excited to do the whole mom thing and put together a party. It is so easy with all the ideas online. I just got Clone Wars invites from Target. We invited 9 kids, 8 came, so I had 9 4-5 year olds total running around my small house! It was crazy fun! Instead of a cake, I made a light saber out of cupcakes. This could have been so much better with jumbo cupcakes and better frosting job, but ya know, I'm pretty basic sometimes. (BTW I did want to make little jedi robes for eveyone, but just ran out of ambition, and time.
I decorated iwth just blue streamers and blue, black, and silver balloons. We put Star Wars toy ships everywhere too.
While we were waiting for everyone, we had Star Wars music blasting and they just colored and did coloring activities and Satr Wars sticker pages. Everyone got their picture taken in front of the big Darth Vader and Yoda cut-outs, and could wer a mask if they wanted.
We had an Astroid Treasure hunt where I just wrapped candy in tinfoil and hid it everywhere. Then we played Star Wars Bingo.

We had Padawan Pizza and Chewbacca Soda (rootbeer)
We did LightSaber Training, first they had to keep a balloon in the air with their light sabers and then Aaron showed them moves and told them about Star Wars fighting stuff, and he put on Boston's Darth Vader helmut and the kids got to defeat him with their moves. Each child got a Jedi Training Certificate that they loved! We had enough light sabers for everyone to borrow one, I saw on a blog someone made lightsabers out of pool noodles cut in half and duct tape/electric tape, and the kids got to keep them. I thought this was the greatest idea since gravy, but alas, it is February and no stores had pool noodles yet and I didn't have time to go online. Anyway...

We watched Clone Wars and had Han Solo figures frozen in ice that they had to melt (like in the movie when he is frozen in carbonite or whetever) I had another game planned for outside but it was cold and raining.
Present Time! We played the Cantina Song and "hot Potato" game present opening.

With our cupcakes, instead of ice cream I made Yoda Soda, which was just sprite, then green ice cubes frozen out of green Kool-aid(my moms idea, so cute)
The kids ahd Clone Wars goodie bags I just got at Target, and in it was Zots candy, Pop Rocks, War Heads, colorful yummy flavored "lightsaber" candy sticks, "lightsaber" glow sticks, a Star Wars PEZ, and clone wars sticker sheets I just got at Target too. Then they got their Jedi certificate and a balloon. Way fun! Boston sort of was pouty sometimes and had a mini-melt-down, but overall he loved it and I was glad to have pulled off the first of many friends parties.
P.S. Do not compare my party to this one at Party Perfect! It is awesome! But mine was too for me, one day... one day...

When you Wish Upon a Star

2010-02-06T16:40:00.000-08:00

Here is more Disneyworld! We ate at Epcot German's Bier Gartens and this is Brock rockin' out to the dudes playing live music in their leiderhosen. We ate their becuase Opa (Brock's middle name sake) is from Germany. It was fun.
Bos and Marty at Epcot
Bos at all the Nemo fish. Turtle Talk with Crush was the cutest thing, but they seperate the kids from the parents and Bos had a mini melt down but once I went down and sat with him he enjoyed it.

Brock's favorite was seeing all the brids and ducks out everywhere!
We made Boston go on the Dinosaur ride. He didn't like ie. I admit, it was pretty scary!
Brock finally started walking on our trip besides more than a few steps!
For Boston's Birthday we went to Chef MIckeys and it was way fun and pretty yummy. Brock wasn't too sure about the characters, from a distance they were ok, but if they came and touched him at all he went into hysterics.

For his birthday Grandma got him a build your own light saber and he chose it to look like Darth Maul and had so much fun and the worker lady was very helpful and cute with him. Star Tours was definately Boston's favorite ride!

For Bos's birthday dinner we went to T-Rex Cafe in Downtown Disney. It was awesome!

LEGOS!

From the Happiest Place on Earth to this

2010-01-28T15:49:00.000-08:00

We had a fabulous 8 days in sunny Disney World, we came home to snow and devastating news about Haiti. Do you ever feel almost guilty to be so blessed? I do. But then I remind myself to just be grateful and generous. The kids loved it! Despite no sleep or naps even really, they did great. My boys are such good little travelers, even on the plane!
This is our first day at Magic Kingdom riding the fairy over, you can see the castle in the background. I had never been to Disneyworld, only land, I was excited! Our place was on Disney property even though it was Wyndham resort so we just rode a shuttle verywhere, except you still had to take the fairy or monorail to MK.

Hang loose!

One of Boston's favorite rides was Buzz Lightyear, here he is with Zurg. Incidentally, I hate this ride because it is hard for me to see my laser and so I miss my target and the result is my score sucks almost as bad as the kiddos do, I am competitive and don't like to be bad at anything so this ride leaves me bitter. But, I loved the similar ride of Toy Story where you can actually see what you are doing, it was way fun, cute and amazing details, and I actually get a decent score!

Boston made me ride the tea cups two times in a row! Talk about puke, he loved it though! It was fun laughing with him on it!

Boston liked Pirates of the Caribbean it was crowded th first day we went but the last day it was a walk on because it was the middle of the week instead of a weekend, so that was nice and he wore his pirate costumes and we saw the "real" Jack Sparrow so it was fun. He loves anything guns as this picture shows.

Brock rockin' out to Playhouse Dinsey Live Onstage-he loved it, anything with music!

So Bostons favorite ride was of course Star Tours, and then he liked Pirates, Dumbo and anything like Dumbo (ie Aladdins magic carpets, Tri-cera Tops Spin) Soarin', Goofys rollercoaster, although he was freaked at first, but it was so fast he did ok, Buzz, Toy Story, all the movie ones (Fantasmic, 3D ones, etc) he was a trooper and we made him go on Space Mountain, Tower of Terror, and they pretty much tramatizaed him, he didn't cry, just was pouty after and said he "definately did not like that and had no favorite parts!" Brocks fave was Small World hands down, we rode it over and over adn he just danced! He also like Triceratops spin. We saw a really cool bird show in Animal Kingdom that everyone enjoyed and Bos liked the Safari, he wouldn't go on Expedition Everest and I thought it was way fun, but was glad we didn't have Boston go. Too intense. Good times though!

Adventure's First Stop!

2010-01-13T13:41:00.000-08:00

So we are leaving for Disneyworld in 2 days. Bos says,"We better get gas and drinks at Maverik before we leave to the airport" Why? "Because it's adventures first stop!" Oh, and we are going on an adventure to Disneyworld? "ya" I thought that was just too funny!

In need of a push

2010-01-13T10:47:00.000-08:00

For some reason I am in need of much motivation today, I have a lot to do and well, I don't feel like it! But either you run the day or the day runs you so off I go!

"The best six doctors anywhere,
And no one can deny it,
Are sunshine, water, rest, and air,
Exercise and diet.
These six will gladly you attend,
If only you are willing.
Your mind they'll ease.
Your will they'll mend.
And charge you not a shilling."
— Nursery rhyme quoted by Wayne Fields,
What the River Knows, 1990

"You are important enough to ask and you are
blessed enough to receive back."
— Wayne Dyer: Self-development author and speaker

"Character isn't something you were born with and can't change,
like your fingerprints. It's something you weren't born with
and must take responsibility for forming."

I am completely stealing this quote from a beautiful gals blog because I loved it.
"The first thing to realize is that you are in control of your own energy. I know it doesn't feel that way sometimes. Depression can take hold like an invading germ; anxiety can cause fear to leap out of nowhere; anger can simmer like a pot on the stove. Yet these conditions do not define you, and in fact you can begin to use basic energy—the kind that comes from food, air, loving relationships, nature's beauty and the flow of creativity—for your own good. All these sources of energy are available to you all the time. They are part of your birthright; they connect you to the flow of life, which is constantly renewing itself."
~ Deepak Chopra

Okay, enough is enough, I know! Ciao!

Walk my way to a better butt?

2010-01-13T10:34:00.000-08:00

So we are going to Disney world Friday and I got these Reebok Easytone shoes from Nordstrom last night. I mostly got it for comfort, but, hey if it's claims are true, a workout while I walk won't hurt either! I also tried on the Sketchers Shape Ups and I must admit my vanity stopped me from even considering these, although they felt nice, you are wearing these big boat things that just look so silly, I am sorry to anyone who has them, but the Reebok ones are cute and comfy, and claims: "Walk. Tighten. Tone. The Reebok EasyTone Inspire is designed to help give definition to your legs and butt. Simply walk and let the balance pods under your shoe do the rest. The slight instability created by the pods feels similar to walking on sand and forces your muscles to work a little harder, toning you up as you strut your stuff. The EasyTone technology improves muscle tone in the hamstrings, calves and glutes up to 28% not bad considering all you have to do is walk around as usual."
So we shall see! I will post my results!

Have you heard of Boyce Avenue?

2010-01-13T09:39:00.000-08:00

I recently discovered this gem of a boy band, JK they are not a boy band. I don't know if I am just a sucker for guys who sing acoustic and play the guitar or piano, but I am diggin' these boys that cover songs in their own unique way. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3o3F5n7TBI

Happiness is

2010-01-02T18:23:00.000-08:00

eat pray love

2010-01-02T14:25:00.000-08:00

eat pray love One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia. This is the current book I am reading and I absolutely love it! It makes me want to go to Italy again and get into yoga, so far. It is her memoir of hard times and how she worked through it and the journey she went on physical, mental, spiritual on this year of travel. Here are some excerpts:

"People think a soul mate is your perfect fit, and that's what everyone wants. But a true soul mate is a mirror, the person who shows you everything that is holding you back, the person who brings you to your own attention so you can change your life.

A true soul mate is probably the most important person you'll ever meet, because they tear down your walls and smack you awake. But to live with a soul mate forever? Nah. Too painful. Soul mates, they come into your life just to reveal another layer of yourself to you, and then leave.

A soul mates purpose is to shake you up, tear apart your ego a little bit, show you your obstacles and addictions, break your heart open so new light can get in, make you so desperate and out of control that you have to transform your life, then introduce you to your spiritual master..."

"There is so much about my fate that I cannot control, but other things do fall under the jurisdiction. I can decide how I spend my time, whom I interact with, whom I share my body and life and money and energy with. I can select what I can read and eat and study. I can choose how I'm going to regard unfortunate circumstances in my life-whether I will see them as curses or opportunities. I can choose my words and the tone of voice in which I speak to others. And most of all, I can choose my thoughts...

I am burdened with what the Buddhists call the 'monkey mind' -- the thoughts that swing from limb to limb, stopping only to scratch themselves, spit and howl...

When you're lost in those woods, it sometimes takes you a while to realize that you are lost. For the longest time, you can convince yourself that you've just wandered off the path, that you'll find your way back to the trail head any moment now. Then night falls again and again, and you still have no idea where you are, and its time to admit that you have bewildered yourself so far off the path that you don't even know from which direction the sun rises anymore..."

For sure more excerpts to come as I cannot get enough of the thoughts in this book. I suppose if you are not going on your own journey of self-discovery per se, as I am, than maybe you won't like this book, but I for sure do.

My Top 10 for 2009 (in no particular order because that would just be too hard)

2010-01-02T14:20:00.000-08:00

Brock turned 1
San Gelato on Soda Row in Daybreak
I started a Blog
Boston started preschool, 3 days a week
My new friendships
Lawn put in our backyard
3 great new team members in Mary Kay
My family, friends and I are healthy & Aaron and I are employed
I learned to knit
I became more "crafty"

Top Songs of the Decade and 2009 (according to some, not neccesarily me)

2010-01-02T14:18:00.002-08:00

Top 25 Songs of the Decade
1. Maroon 5 "Harder To Breathe"
2. The Killers "Mr. Brightside"
3. U2 "Vertigo"
4. John Mayer "Your Body Is a Wonderland"
5. Green Day "Warning"
6. Fall Out Boy "Thnks Fr th Mmrs"
7. Kings Of Leon "Use Somebody"
8. Owl City "Fireflies"
9. Fray "Over My Head (Cable Car)"
10. Weezer "Pork and Beans"
11. Lit "My Own Worst Enemy"
12. Gorillaz "Feel Good Inc"
13. U2 "Beautiful Day"
14. Katy Perry "I Kissed a Girl"
15. Green Day "Boulevard Of Broken Dreams"
16. Jason Mraz "The Remedy"
17. No Doubt "Hella Good"
18. Incubus "Drive"
19. Sara Bareilles "Love Song"
20. U2 "Elevation"
21. Muse "Uprising"
22. Jack Johnson "Upside Down"
23. Coldplay "Viva La Vida"
24. Jimmy Eat World "The Middle"
25. No Doubt "It's My Life"

Top 10 Songs of 2009
1. Owl City "Fireflies" (Really? I like Fuzzy Blue Lights better)
2. Kings Of Leon "Use Somebody"
3. Muse "Uprising"
4. The Killers "Spaceman"
5. U2 "Magnificent"
6. Coldplay "Life In Technicolor ii"
7. Snow Patrol "Crack the Shutters"
8. Airborne Toxic Event "Sometime Around Midnight"
9. Carolina Liar "Show Me What I'm Looking For"
10. The Fray "You Found Me"

I agree with a few of these, but it is still fun to remember...

Happy New Year!!! New Year, NEW ME

2010-01-02T13:40:00.000-08:00

New Year's Eve we went and saw Sherlock Holmes and to Rodizio Grill. Good Times. 01/01/10 I took the kids to Classic Fun Center with friends, didn't make it to the gym. Day two of the new year and no gym yet either. But one of my resolutions is to go to the gym or do some exercise somewhere, 6 days a week. This is my favorite time of year and I feel full of possibilities!

"Goals (Desires) need to be realistic, something you are not currently achieving and something that will require a certain amount of mental exertion. You need to realize that the desire may not be easy to achieve, but you must maintain faith that if you make a determined effort that a way will be prepared for your goals to be accomplished. YOUR SUCCESS IN ACHIEVING THE GOAL WILL BE IN DIRECT PROPORTION TO YOUR FAITH AND EFFORTS, NOT YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES." ~Grant Von Harrison, author of Drawing on the powers of Heaven

"It is most appropriate for you to quietly, and with determination, set some serious personal goals in which you will seek to improve by selecting certain things that you will accomplish within a specific period of time. EVEN IF YOU ARE HEADED IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION, IF YOU ARE WITHOUT MOMENTUM YOU WILL HAVE TOO LITTLE INFLUENCE." ~Spencer W. Kimball

"To a great extent we accomplish what we think about. In other words, what you think about today, tomorrow, or next month will mold your attitude and determine what you will accomplish during your life. Your life is influenced more by your own thoughts than anything else." !Gran Von Harrison

"How could a person possibly become what he is not thinking? Nor is any thought, when persistently entertained, too small to have its effect. The 'divinity that shapes our ends' is indeed in ourselves." ~S.W. Kimball

Fairy Tales can come true, but it's all up to you! ~The Princess and the Frog

My Top 5 New Years Desires/Goals:
1. To be healthy physically. Eat healthier, and exercise 6 x's a week. To lose 50 pounds.
2. My Mary Kay Income to be 2500 a month. Be able to pay our bills monthly, pay a full tithe this year, and pay off credit card debt.
3. To be a Director with Mary Kay, work my business daily and see 30 faces a month and share the business opportunity at every appointment.
4. Increase my faith and spirituality. Go to the temple, have family prayer and scripture study. Have Family Home Evening. Magnify my calling in Young Women by praying every day, reading the Book of Mormon for 5 minutes a day, smiling, influencing one young woman for good each week, earn my Young Women Recognition Medallion.
5. Get mentally healthy. This will greatly improve my marriage and my ability as a mother, and as a person. Significantly reducing stress, anger, exhaustion, etc. etc. I am still working out the specifics of this one...

Testimonies of Christ

2009-12-26T22:28:00.000-08:00

Here is the video from Christmas Eve.

Do You Hear What I Hear?

2009-12-26T19:57:00.000-08:00

"Cuz I hear lots of toys and music and movies at my house. And what I see looks like a bomb went off full of wrapping paper and instruction pamphlets. We had a wonderful Christmas with Christmas Eve spent at Aunt and Uncle's with the whole clan and Boston and I played our first duet together of Jingle Bells. We only practiced a few times and he really has had only one official piano lesson. I was so proud! He is a natural! We listened to this recording of various prophets and apostles testifying of Christ and it was so wonderful I cried. My mom and brother came. Brock opened his first Christmas present and really got into it tearing the paper and made funny faces. The elves came and brought us Disney jammies since we are going to Disneyworld in a few weeks. Boston slept in on Christmas until 7:30 so not too bad. We had family over for breakfast, during the afternoon and we went to grandpas with everyone for dinner. Boston said the prayer on dinner and he started out so sweet saying "Thank you that we could all get together and have a Christmas dinner at Grandpa's" and then later he ended with "Bless that the toys will be cool" so funny! And when he opened his gifts he was not dissapointed:) Boston was thrilled with his gifts including a new bike from Grandma. I have much to be thankful for especially the birth, life, death and Resurrection of my Savior, Jesus Christ. Aaron got me exactly what I wanted, a Ninja Master Prep. If you haven't seen the infomerical you gotta check it out. I used it Christmas morning to make smoothies, today to make guacamole and to crush gingersnaps for my ham coating tonight. I don't want to take Christmas decor down, it is so depressing afterward, the house looks so bare to me and less warm. Oh well, on to a new year! I also love January to examine my life. Determine where I am and what I need to do to be the kind of person I want to be. Merry Christmas!!!! Boston and Jane after seeing the lights at Thanksgiving Point and seeing the reindeer. Boston and Jane again. Brock in his Christmas outfit:)

Quote of the Week

2009-12-21T12:23:00.000-08:00

Give a Hoot for the Holidays

2009-12-14T22:06:00.000-08:00

Um Hello! I HAVE to have these! Not only are they stinkin' a-dor-a-ble, but, ya know, the whole "havin' a hoot at the Harris household" thing? I have taken a liking to owls lately, owl art, owl jewelry, and now...CUTE OWL FELT ORNAMENTS! Here is the tutorial to make them.

Must Be Santa...Must Be Santa...Must Be Santa, Santa Claus!

2009-12-14T21:04:00.000-08:00

Boston had his preschool program today and here is a little excerpt. He did so great, considering he didn't even want to go to school today and sometimes gets very shy. It kills me because I was shy as a kid and hated it and so I have tried to raise Boston not to be shy, but apparently you can't fight genetics. Plus he kept yawning, probably because he wakes up so dang early! Oh well, he did super, and sang super loud, and looked super cute!!! Yay! (Also, pay no mind to my horrible recording job, I apparently can't hold my camera steady AT ALL)

His Reindeer ears kept falling down:)

Press PLAY and enjoy!

Notice how all the kids' noses are painted red except Boston and one other girls. He said he didn't want to. That is odd since he always comes home with marker all over his face or body from school saying he was Rudolph that day, or got in a battle.This is Boston's buddy Tyler. At Thanksgiving time I was there early to pick the kids up and the teacher was asking them what they were grateful for and writing it down. She asked Tyler and he said "I am thankful for Boston" So sweet! He seems to just adore Boston from day one and they are good little buddies. By the way, when Bostons was asked what he was thankful for he siad, "My mom!...and the whole class" Melt my heart!

Recipe of the moment

2009-12-14T20:54:00.000-08:00

On Saturday night we went to Macaroni Grill with some friends (Thanks for the 50% discount!) I always get the Chicken Scallopine and I absolutely LOVE it!! So here is the copy cat recipe: ( BTW it is SO not figure friendly!!)

SERVES 8 -10
Ingredients

* 4 ounces lemon juice
* 2 ounces white wine
* 4 ounces heavy cream
* 1 lb butter
* 6 (3-4 ounce) chicken breasts, pounded thin
* oil, for sauteing chicken
* butter, for sauteing chicken
* 1/2-3/4 cup flour, seasoned with
* salt and pepper, for dredging
* 6 ounces pancetta, cooked
* 12 ounces mushrooms, sliced
* 12 ounces artichoke hearts, sliced
* 1 tablespoon capers
* 1 lb capellini, cooked
* chopped parsley, for garnish

Directions

1.To make the sauce: Heat the lemon juice and white wine in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Bring to a boil and reduce by one-third.
3.Add cream and simmer until mixture thickens (3-4 minutes).
4. Slowly add butter until completely incorporated.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Remove from heat and keep warm.
7. Cook pasta and drain.
8. Heat a small amount of oil and two tablespoons butter in a large skillet.
9. Dredge chicken in flour and saute in pan, turning once, until brown and cooked through.
10. Remove chicken from pan and add to pan remaining ingredients.
11. Heat until mushrooms soften and are cooked; add chicken back to pan.
12. Place cooked pasta on each plate.
13. Add half of butter sauce to chicken mixture and toss.
14. Taste and adjust, adding more sauce if needed.
15. Place chicken mixture over pasta.
16. Garnish with parsley.
17. Alternately, mix pasta and chicken mixture together.
18. Toss with butter sauce.

There goes my diet....but YUM-MO!

Make your own Paper Ornaments!

2009-12-07T12:06:00.000-08:00

I am using this Heartland Paper tutorial and giving the big stars as part of my neighbor Holiday Gifts this year!

click here for the insturctions: http://heartlandpaper.typepad.com/heartland_paper/2009/12/ornaments-on-studio-5.html

December VT Message

2009-12-04T13:35:00.000-08:00

The message is entitled, "Nurture Through Compassionate Service." One of the passages from Sister Barbara Thompson talks about doing our part to help build the kingdom of God... and the fact that we will have help in doing this. She then quotes Joseph Smith: "If you live up to your privileges, the angels cannot be restrained from being your associates." Use a magnet designed just for this particular gift. It has the quote from Joseph Smith on it, as well as a picture of an angel. And here is the exciting part...The angel pictured on the magnet was the first angel to decorate an LDS temple in our dispensation. It stood on top of the original Nauvoo temple. It is very vintage looking - and instead of being vertical (like most others) the angel is horizontal. In one of the angel's hand is an open book (presumably the Book of Mormon) and in the other hand he holds a trumpet - announcing to the world the gospel. See Revelations 14:6-7. You can purchase the magnet at Pioneer Party and Gift in Lehi, or just put a picture of an angel with the message or even make your own magnet!

New Moon Mania!

2009-12-04T09:15:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am one of "those" people. You know the Twilight fans I used to mock relentlessly? Well, we dressed up and went to the expo center and the midnight showing of New Moon!! Thanks to my mother-in-law. Loved it! It didn't get good reviews I guess, but hello! If you read the books you will love the movie, and oh that wolf pack!! Yum! Is it bad that I am a 30+ year old married mom and I want to lick a 17 year olds chest? Did I just type that? Yes, I did.

Me and Stephanie in front of Bellas truck, notice our vampire fangs. She is a Volturi chick and I am Alice.

Mother-in-law and sis-in-law

And here we are in Italy in front of the Volturi castle or whatever.
I got home and to bed at 3:30 or so and woke up the next morning at 6:30 to go to Park City for my Mary Kay Fall Retreat. Totally worth it and fun!

Create

2009-11-27T21:15:00.000-08:00

Family Journal Time!

2009-11-09T11:35:00.000-08:00

Updates...
Brock still isn't walking, but he will stand up by himself, walk holing on to something, and take a step from one object to another. He says, "uh-oh" which is too adorable, and he will point to the light and say, "IGHT". That's pretty much it except mama dada and ba.
The other day in the card Aaron told Grandma that my moms dad, my grandpa "passed away" the other day. Bos pipes up from the backseat, "ya, dead!! D-E-D!" It was so funny.
At dinner last night I kept getting annoyed with Boston because he practially sits on my lap when I sit by him eating dinner, so I have to keep pushing his hands and arms aways and putting him back all the way on his own seat and he says "Mom you're like not the best mom ever!" I thought he said I was 'like the best mom ever' but I heard wrong and he says "because you won't let me touch you" Everyone at the dinner table gave me grief, but I am sorry, I need my space!
But! Another day we were watching tv and hes says "mom, I love you never-ending" So I guess that makes up for not being the best mom ever.
Brock loves to watch Dancing With the Stars, he laughs and crawls toward the Tv and claps and dances like nobody's business! So cute and funny. And I love how babies just have this innate sense to move to music, they know it instinctively. So awesome!
Last Sunday in church I had an amazing experience. A close friend had lost his baby recently after being born premature and living only 2 weeks. well, I was sitting by him and got to watch him hold and play with and love on my little guy, tears came to my eyes because I was so grateful that I had a living breathing baby, and I also cried at seeing this man so good with kids with such love and understanding and faith that he will see his baby again. My heart was so full!
We had a dinner celebrating Visiting Teaching and the bishop talked about the friendships you will make with the women you visit. How Heavenly Father puts them in our path for a reason and He has a hand in the whole process. One of my closest friends is my friend because of the Visiting Teaching program, I know God directed her to my life and it has been a blessing and I love her and I am thankful for my Father in Heaven's mindfulness of me.
Boston just informed me that he has "had the swine flu for like two weeks mom!"

Much needed motivational quote of the moment

2009-11-03T14:39:00.001-08:00

"Perhaps the very best question that you can memorize
and repeat, over and over, is, 'what is the most
valuable use of my time right now?'"

Ya, I pretty much LOVE him

2009-11-03T13:46:00.001-08:00

Well...not HIM, so much, but definatley his art. Who is he, you ask? Rodney White. Check it out! I want it all! Or at least 2 to put above my bed or something...
Its like positive quotes, which of course I am all about, but in a cool vintagey design, which of course I am also all about.

November Visiting Teaching Message

2009-11-03T13:05:00.000-08:00

For this months handout: Cut an apron shape out of fall scrapbook paper and put a ribbon at the top. Make the back attach so there is a puch. Put a label on the front that reads: Add the words of the prophets to your Thanksgiving Menu.

Fill the back pouch with a yummy candy and a Thanksgiving Menu tucked inside with quotes from General Conference. So it says Thanksgiving Menu Feast upon the words of the prophets (food for thought from the 2009 October General Conference)
Appetizers
"Allow virtue to garnish thy thoughts unceasingly." Bishop Burton
"Preperation removes fear" Elder L Tom Perry
Side Dishes
"Spirituality yields two fruits...the first is inspiration to know what to do, the second is power or the capacity to do it." Elder Richard G Scott
"If we heed his work and live the comandments, we will survive this time of wickedness." Pres. Monson
Main Course
"Because the spirit is often described as a still small voice, it is important to have a time of quiet in our lives...to allow the spirit time to whisper sweet guidance." Vicki F Matsumori
"What we love, determines what we seek. What we seek, determines what we think and do. What we think and do determines who we are and who we will become." Pres. Uchtdorf
Dessert
"You need to know that nothing can seperate you from the love of Christ." Barbara Thompson
"We are invited to 'get a grip' on the iron rod and never let go!" Sister Ann Dibb
And of course, pumpkin pie!
All menu items free of charge...Considered priceless for those guests who are willing to "Come Unto Him"

Thanks you PP&G! and I hope all of you that have access to one, take time to read your Ensign this month. I always LOVE everything Pres. Uchtdorf says, so good!

Happy Haunting!

2009-11-02T14:53:00.000-08:00

I learned this year a lesson as a mom. Boston wore his "dress up" Darth Vader costume to our neighborhood "trunk-or-treat" Well, this wasn't his costume, he has had it for a year and uses it to play star wars, and the mask is the real big voice changer toy one not just a "costume" peice and he has tons of Light sabers that he plays with of course, so anyway, at preschool the next day was his Halloween party and he wanted to wear his Darth Vader costume and I had bought him this cute dead pirate one that I wanted him to wear because he couldn't wear his mask for Darth Vader at school anyways, and I wanted him to look cute or cool or whatver. Even earlier in the season, he had wanted to be Jango Fett or someone and I wouldn't let him because his friend from preschool was being that and I didn't want them being the same. Seriously, why do I as a parent even care, the kids in his class wouldn't care what he was and would think anything was "cool", it's not like any other moms are sitting there judging me so WHY do I push it so hard. He also went though a phase of wanting to be a dinosaur that was my little brothers from when we were kids and I thought it looked "babyish" and not as "cool" as superheros or whatever else his friends were being so I told him no he could just wear that for playtime dress up. Seriously? Again, even if he did wear the dino costume, none of the $ year ols are going to care! So I sent a kid off to school practically dragging him kicking and screaming to carpool to go to school for the Halloween Party. He was not a happy camper and neither was I. Was this worth it? Well...actually it turned out fine, he had fun and wore his costume for Halloween only a little bit grudgingly. BUT, I guess my job as a mom is to pick my battles, and if it is about my kids happiness and what is important to him, that should for sure come before my pride or opportunity for a cute photo. It was still a fun holiday and I am glad it is over!

Fall 2009 Family Photos

2009-10-29T15:07:00.000-07:00

A friend took these in Butterfield Canyon, but Bos keeps calling it "Butterfly Canyon". We are doing a "couch seasons series" with a few families. It was fun!

Dear Santa...

2009-10-23T18:06:00.001-07:00

Please deliver me this lovely cardigan (and the other goodies if you feel so inclined)on Christmas morning...xoxo Jocelyn

Untitled by shopaholicdiva1027 featuring J Crew

My Little Happy Place

2009-10-23T18:01:00.001-07:00

I love Rodney Smith photography...

Have you heard of Stella & Dot?

2009-10-22T14:18:00.000-07:00

Because I hadn't...but oh my gosh what a find! They are a jewlery in home thing like Cookie Lee Silpada or Lia Sophia, only way more faulouso! Not cheap...but not crazy either. Check out my faves and find your own at stelladot.com