tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28009657689102066732024-02-07T01:17:38.776-08:00My place to chatJillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-45834215823214727032009-02-07T15:15:00.000-08:002009-02-07T16:46:22.584-08:00Jumping back in<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9X5bfcKI2yGbl76oAa6nMaH2roM__gy_8h4A95gILWg8yBazQrRYXIJ0W5lbsLybtTS-ZIiZXUi9VJXbvbmj-Cr_1-Jo6qt9hjZZZ3CIQ6-xZdEV7nmhHOyppeMUY-RHGivRYNXAZt14/s1600-h/Photo+175.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 296px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9X5bfcKI2yGbl76oAa6nMaH2roM__gy_8h4A95gILWg8yBazQrRYXIJ0W5lbsLybtTS-ZIiZXUi9VJXbvbmj-Cr_1-Jo6qt9hjZZZ3CIQ6-xZdEV7nmhHOyppeMUY-RHGivRYNXAZt14/s400/Photo+175.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300220872408342066" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">There are so many things that I could write about. So many things that I am grateful for. But today, in my silent house, all I can seem to think about is my Son. Lukie. Lukapotamus. L. Luke-a. Bud. Sometimes Prince Charming. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">I was looking through my side table drawer last night and I came across a journal I use to keep. Much like this blog it is something once frequently visited. Life got busy, other things became the priority until, eventually the journal had been closed for good.. It just so happened that these pages were filled at a time of great struggles for me. It started about the time that Luke was diagnosed with AS, a very emotional one for our Family. Not because of the official pages hand-written by a Pediatric Neurologist stating the words. And not because those words have changed our lives. The reason that was such a trying time for me was because I was feeling as though I was a failure. I could not get through to my Son. He was often angry and upset. There were days that I would pray he would sleep a little longer, only because I did not know what to do with him many of his waking hours. Not proud thoughts for a Mother.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">I was going through entry after entry. Remembering my struggles with this boy. Recalling all of the times I would just have to put him in his room to scream because there was nothing else to be done. I avoided going out in public with him. I had constant red scabs from angry encounters with his fingernails. He would pull my hair sometimes in fits of rage. Yes, it was a very trying time. I wondered what Heavenly Father was thinking sending me this boy. I could clearly do nothing right. I was obviously loosing. Failing and feeling pretty low. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia;">Embarrassingly</span>, my greatest desire back thenwas for him to be "normal".. whatever that was. I constantly compared him to other boys his age and couldn't help but to feel sorrow. I envied the ease I saw in their days. And wondered what life would be like if Luke could understand the way I saw his friends grasping.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">At that time most people never knew how bad things would get. How dark many of my days were. Nobody wants people to know that they have a child who is out of control. No one wants others to pity them because of their Son's short-comings.. I only wanted people to see the best parts of Luke. To know of his love, his honesty and sensitivity. How incredibly smart he was and how infectious his laugh was. There <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">were</span> good days. Back then they much less frequently but, when they came, they were magical. On those days I would lay in my bed at night wondering what I did differently. What I did that was right that day. What food's did he eat? I spent so much time waiting for things to turn or planning my day to avoid potential hazards that I could almost never fully enjoy them though. It was a wonder to me that, for many, those were constant, normal days. I couldn't imagine.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Our days were spent preparing ourselves for the next melt-down. I would avoid certain isles in the Grocery Store. I would be home at certain times, with no variables, for naps and bed times. My life was spent looking around the next corner. And it was physically and emotionally exhausting!!!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">The reason why I bring these things out is not to feel sorry for myself. Or for Luke. Its to rejoice. The path that we took was one of hard work, consistencies and hope. I knew that I would do anything for Luke that I could do in order to help him come out. The real him. Behind those often glazed over eyes was my boy. The one who I have the privilege of being with everyday. He is an absolute joy. Watching him work so hard over the last couple of years has been so humbling. He amazes everyone with whom he's ever worked with. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">In his last IEP, as he now no longer even </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">qualifies</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"> for services, the head of the department spoke of Luke. She said that in her 20 years of working with children of various levels in the Special Education Department she had never seen anything like it. She stated that she had never witnessed so much change in one person before. That most people would probably never believe that his first IEP was even the same boy. I cried.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">So now as I type this I cry again. I am so proud of this special little boy of ours. I am so grateful that Heavenly Father chose me to be his Mother. I cry because I get to see this tremendous spirit of his battle out the ghosts in his head, and to defeat them. He is strong, he is valiant. He is a fighter and he is wise. I can not tell you how much Luke has changed me. I value and embrace every good day, every smile and conversation. He has gone from being one of my greatest trials to my <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">greatest</span> joys. I have loved serving him and helping him through this part of his journey. He is a miracle that I have been blessed to watch unfold. I see now how lucky I really am. And I wouldn't change the past for anything. It has gotten us to where and who we are today.</span></div></div>Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-30467171770485514432007-12-15T07:07:00.000-08:002007-12-15T07:29:13.817-08:00AloneLast night at about 5 pm I decided to go out and run an errand. You can all appreciate that I went out to get Ella's red shoes that I had put on hold. A nearby Target finally got a few more in and I bolted. So I went out all alone. It was so nice. I rarely do things by myself. I am a pretty social person and usually if I cant do something with someone else I tend to just not do it at all. Well last night I was having a little bit of a grumpy hour and needed to just get out, so I did.<div><div>I went to Target, out to dinner by myself ( which was amazing) and shopping at TJ Max. I got to take my time, go slow and be alone with my thoughts. It was wonderful.</div><div>While out, being grumpy and feeling bad for myself, I called up one of my closest friends Jenn. At the end of the conversation she told me the following story. It haunted me all night and made me feel ridiculous... being grumpy for such silly reasons. </div><div>" My Sister-in-law went in on Monday to have her labor induced. She had an appointment with her OBGYN the previous week and all was well, as it had been the entire pregnancy. Family was in town, showers had been had, the clothes were washed and they were ready. She excitedly went to the hospital to have her long-awaited( it took them years to get pregnant) little girl. As they were hooking her up to the monitors they heard a problem... nothing. There was only one heartbeat registering on the monitor, her own. Her baby had died. She still had to go through labor and delivery of her still-born daughter. The autopsy showed that she had been strangled by her umbilical cord... maybe the day before. They got to sit alone with their beautiful, full-term baby for a couple of hours before they took her away. The Family will be flying out to Utah this weekend to bury the daughter they never got to meet but love more than anything."</div><div>I just want to cry everytime I think of this. And I cant stop thinking about this. It really puts things into perspective and makes me feel grateful and so fortunate. So my thoughts are with this amazing couple and I pray that they can get through it, I know they will. But I also know they can use as many prayers as they can get.</div></div>Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-38626065724603944712007-12-11T06:57:00.000-08:002007-12-11T07:07:38.269-08:00Who is this girl?Ella is driving me bonkers recently. I am hoping that this is temporary. Blaming it on her perpetual Winter cold or that fact that she may be working on her 2 year molars. But I think its less those things then I'd like to admit. This girl has been downright sassy, grumpy and naughty. Not to mention the fact that she's basically stopped eating.<div>Yesterday I was awoken from a nap, I love my life, to Dave screaming Ella's name like I had never heard him do before. I sprinted downstairs and saw it. Black Sharpie all over GG's things and all over Ella and her clothes. She had found this marker and went to town on GG's chair, pillow, books, dresser and mirror. I wanted to kill her. These are the few things that GG actually uses consistently. And among the very few things she has brought here from her old home... and my kid has gone and turned them into an art project! I was horrified and embarrassed. We got it off of the furniture but that was the best we could do. Of coarse GG was a star about the whole thing. "Those things are bound to happen." and " I can just flip this pillow upside-down and you wont even see any of it" Were among the words out of her mouth... I love this Woman. I think she was the one who felt bad that Ella had been yelled at and put in her room for so long. </div><div>So, here is my new, naughty Ella. Any suggestions? Besides to keep the markers out of the house.</div>Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-39060489948017402272007-12-09T06:38:00.000-08:002008-12-10T04:32:16.027-08:00shoes and shots.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRXRS4entEk-S2Wrpr9LqSaOZQ68ss5qf35PM4BN0JtAqFG4NeFfw0rcH8oHOXeS3vDn0M5nq31tRUvFP5kXyo5HPvwhq7yzy_niSsY3-Si96EugWCnlgl4HB9FwOZtlsO0xaLRRa3eL4/s1600-h/7433.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRXRS4entEk-S2Wrpr9LqSaOZQ68ss5qf35PM4BN0JtAqFG4NeFfw0rcH8oHOXeS3vDn0M5nq31tRUvFP5kXyo5HPvwhq7yzy_niSsY3-Si96EugWCnlgl4HB9FwOZtlsO0xaLRRa3eL4/s400/7433.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5141986462525530194" /></a><br />I guess everyone buys red shoes for their girls at Christmas time. Its ridiculous. I have been looking for red mary jane's in a size 7 for Ella and have looked everywhere. I should have bought the cute one's I saw at Target last month but I thought I had plenty of time to do it. I have looked at every shoe store they have at both 5 points and the mall. I have looked online. I even borrowed some cute one's from a friend that would have worked perfectly, only they are a little too small. There are a pair that I can get that are great but they're a little more than I want to pay for something she wont wear very often. Dave is getting fed up with my looking though and just wants me to buy them already. I am usually the one what can find anything. Where are all the red shoes in a size 7? If any one of you see's them out there put them on hold for me.<br />And when are we going to get our Christmas pictures taken? The kids have been sick, its been cold and rainy. I wanted to just take them to Mile Square and let them run around but things have not quite been conducive to picture taking recently. And I have come to the conclusion that this year we will be lucky to get a picture of the 2 kids... let alone the entire family. We will be sending a picture out. What that will be or when remains to be seen... or known.Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-15612833270495130732007-12-04T21:39:00.000-08:002008-12-10T04:32:16.227-08:00Luke's allergies<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfWtpRW8n-Ydiv8XAMZ0i2Nb31mPYTTnqU6H11a7yOkdWbpthZ1-2YyPutr5ph_erasbPT2zly8_cQLhuFLZSW9bDTGr1j9XyLbSjn9cAG0w7ujgarnA_SaYPlOyoMiSlkhp_z76a-X4A/s1600-h/DSC_0031.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfWtpRW8n-Ydiv8XAMZ0i2Nb31mPYTTnqU6H11a7yOkdWbpthZ1-2YyPutr5ph_erasbPT2zly8_cQLhuFLZSW9bDTGr1j9XyLbSjn9cAG0w7ujgarnA_SaYPlOyoMiSlkhp_z76a-X4A/s320/DSC_0031.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5140360984907718610" /></a><br />Just a cute thing that Luke said today that made us laugh so hard. <br />Ella had a slice of cheese that she was walking around eating. Now Luke is allergic to dairy product's and he's getting pretty good at recognizing the things he can and can't have. He knows cheese is on the "no" list.<br />Ella walked over to Luke and sat down right next to him. He said that he wanted her to move and that she was in his way. <br />I told Luke" She can sit by you, it's not a big deal". <br />I think he saw that the conversation was not going in the direction he had wanted it to go. He finally said,<br /> "Sorry Ella. You have to move away from me. Im allergic to cheese.... sorry""<br />I love that he now try's to use his allergies to his benefit.Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-84730356541555949442007-12-02T19:39:00.000-08:002007-12-02T19:42:02.484-08:00My personality typeWARNING<div><br /></div><div>This is really long and may bore the reader. This is something I saw on a friends page and thought it would be fun to do.<br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><br />As an ESFP, your primary mode of living is focused externally, where you take things in via your five senses in a literal, concrete fashion. Your secondary mode is internal, where you deal with things according to how you feel about them, or how they fit with your personal value system.<br /><br />ESFPs live in the world of people possibilties. They love people and new experiences. They are lively and fun, and enjoy being the center of attention. They live in the here-and-now, and relish excitement and drama in their lives.<br /><br />ESFPs have very strong inter-personal skills, and may find themselves in the role of the peacemaker frequently. Since they make decisions by using their personal values, they are usually very sympathetic and concerned for other people's well-being. They're usually quite generous and warm. They are very observant about other people, and seem to sense what is wrong with someone before others might, responding warmly with a solution to a practical need. They might not be the best advice-givers in the world, because they dislike theory and future-planning, but they are great for giving practical care.<br /><br />ESFP is definitely a spontaneous, optimistic individual. They love to have fun. If the ESFP has not developed their Thinking side by giving consideration to rational thought processing, they tend to become over-indulgent, and place more importance on immediate sensation and gratification than on their duties and obligations. They may also avoid looking at long-term consequences of their actions.<br /><br />For the ESFP, the entire world is a stage. They love to be the center of attention and perform for people. They're constantly putting on a show for others to entertain them and make them happy. They enjoy stimulating other people's senses, and are extremely good at it. They would love nothing more than for life to be a continual party, in which they play the role of the fun-loving host.<br /><br />ESFPs love people, and everybody loves an ESFP. One of their greatest gifts is their general acceptance of everyone. They are upbeat and enthusiastic, and genuinely like almost everybody. An ESFP is unfailingly warm and generous with their friends, and they generally treat everyone as a friend. However, once crosesed, an ESFP is likely to make a very strong and stubborn judgment against the person who crossed them. They are capable of deep dislike in such a situation.<br /><br />The ESFP under a great deal of stress gets overwhelmed with negatives thoughts and possibilities. As an optimistic individual who lives in the world of possibilities, negative possibilities do not sit well with them. In an effort to combat these thoughts, they're likely to come up with simple, global statements to explain away the problem. These simplistic explanations may or may not truly get to the nature of the issue, but they serve the ESFP well by allowing them to get over it.<br /><br />ESFPs are likely to be very practical, although they hate structure and routine. They like to "go with the flow", trusting in their ability to improvise in any situation presented to them. They learn best with "hands-on" experience, rather than by studying a book. They're uncomfortable with theory. If an ESFP hasn't developed their intuitive side, they may tend to avoid situations which involve a lot of theoretical thinking, or which are complex and ambiguous. For this reason, an ESFP may have difficulty in school. On the other hand, the ESFP does extremely well in situations where they're allowed to learn by interacting with others, or in which they "learn by doing".<br /><br />ESFPs have a very well-developed appreciation for aesthetic beauty, and an excellent sense of space and function. If they have the means, they're likely to have to have many beautiful possessions, and an artfully furnished home. In general, they take great pleasure in objects of aesthetic beauty. They're likely to have a strong appreciation for the finer things in life, such as good food and good wine.<br /><br />The ESFP is a great team player. He or she is not likely to create any problems or fuss, and is likely to create the most fun environment possible for getting the task done. ESFPs will do best in careers in which they are able to use their excellent people skills, along with their abilities to meld ideas into structured formats. Since they are fast-paced individuals who like new experiences, they should choose careers which offer or require a lot of diversity, as well as people skills.<br /><br />ESFPs usually like to feel strongly bonded with other people, and have a connection with animals and small children that is not found in most other types. They're likely to have a strong appreciation for the beauties of nature as well.<br /><br />The ESFP has a tremendous love for life, and knows how to have fun. They like to bring others along on their fun-rides, and are typically a lot of fun to be with. They're flexible, adaptable, genuinely interested in people, and usually kind-hearted. They have a special ability to get a lot of fun out of life, but they need to watch out for the pitfalls associated with living entirely in the moment.<br /></div>Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-12959459250213708702007-12-01T22:16:00.000-08:002008-12-10T04:32:16.685-08:00I love this Weather<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin_Gw-KLPXEklz8uVFZj4hikbSkNrnZJjldpFn3XprtXweOxE3T0XmG7tvWVXPqD7VwCJG4fpp901Sec08g3B5EEbbSKpEpB6e_Cel-8qCMGjCb130mj7eGOvuhuzcb5uj46l2-mqzFmw/s1600-r/DSC02172.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcwW8ln3plsxKsdVPX2d-vzSkAJLDwz-8Yhz7Nfl6UolnZQaZ8rxHukr9OTbPhnRncQn6cvKI76IwsOL4usFhyphenhypheny9KubPCeUehGy-RFjJQ8cyhjVvqzKj8m54ZOrBwhyhc7vrK4aPcQpFo/s320/DSC02172.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5139259617854070626" /></a>Mom and Luke. December 2005 in Naperville, Illinois<div><br /></div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG6iow0Yx0aC09llo_2Dm9PYqrHZe1MIOjWL5l47CuE3hKU-BhdKTMe6Exk6CIOn05op83wSy0dBaB3Q8YCoKBR392fC4NeJgUd986X9Ydz9VVdp0Bpn_T6DR0DY1yB7CVxsDZdQhMT_U/s1600-r/DSC02178.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMgAYamLOCUtFfrpqdDRmS_P-Hm3IVyVOcqnD7KhWRYfPvoUbCYoNULybFbH-krOR8v5pOyW0kll_i4jmVvD9cVoI3BptRJeLLyugt1cBucPKE51pzz1HG1J4Ju0lg7ETGGOrgjYuPlZk/s320/DSC02178.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5139259368745967442" /></a>Luke and Dad. or cold and colder<div> </div><div><br />I have been so happy these last 2 days. Yesterday was cold and rainy. Today... cold and windy. It just makes me so happy and upbeat. I know it sounds weird but I just come alive in the cold. I get in the mood to clean and organize. I want to go out and be enjoying the opportunity to wear sweaters and coats. I love the way my cheeks feel, un-protected from the air and frigid. Red and rosy. <div>So I am hoping to have another "cold" day tomorrow. I must admit today was about 58 degrees but there is something about that wet, moist breeze that can cut right through you. I really do love it though.</div><div>I was remembering, as we went out to get our tree today, 2 years ago in Chicago. We went out to get our Christmas Tree, I was 9 months pregnant and it was maybe 17 degree's outside. After about 10 minutes we had to go home because Dave's hands were bright red. We forgot gloves and it was pain to keep taking his hands out of his jacket pockets to lift up trees as we inspected them. He took us home, Luke was a freezing mess, and went back to get the tree on his own... gloves in hand this time. Now that was cold. I still sort of enjoyed even that though and I miss, crazy as that may sound.</div></div></div>Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-51727724602505815992007-11-30T08:31:00.000-08:002008-12-10T04:32:17.321-08:00My style is changing<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-TVIk0ThGB0Ag0I9gzuJVbDT29uvwt8_mPsSrVjgbUayTEz5sxBSDNDf8FimNG-nNsEwQt6L2o7Bm592LDk8Jxq7mIjJ3lTQlx3MOo3R3QgiDj4U53_US6Cajjx6q00EwQxf5G_9pW0I/s1600-r/DSC_0001.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOKULhx2kRT_oEYM-DV1H7QkXydIqSgqm8V5HqfFAc_y-qjozZ_KjUPvpo6uQhA9lIFbU51bjgbgNryG93_Wmo-cNwXWpoxDP30QhAUvaIymsdg0QelonZdGZCs8u1ShHq92esFVK_loI/s320/DSC_0001.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5138682405254811890" /></a>new decorations<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCfhZ1EJET5TjnnxQ6IF53s1Vajb0aBNEqL_omagRddSJLzDp89OZwnXVXJSB4frtwoCGzl6LpyOlfNutk_m9H9L3aJvjZwDPpOZrxGkcGtfxl9xwswF-qcaMAlrT1UMoeCEaHkzAqglw/s1600-r/DSC_0003.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU4YUko8PjIEItJKMoWduHrCDA88cOadxbJBj7_12Ak43DmoPTqo5ax5pXFIzTLYF6zQR0lSdyVtkMLBwBMYYYhqNyDifOaL6dafQv7hl5tgOYCBiNoDyQZxdpoRy7T3gY7ktLAya3buE/s320/DSC_0003.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5138682035887624418" /></a>old decorations<div><br /></div><div><br />A few Christmas' ago I went to "Hobby Lobby" in Naperville Illinois where I purchased a ton of inexpensive Christmas decorations. It consisted of mostly snowmen and a few other such Holiday themed items. Santa's, Christmas tree's,reindeer... you get the idea. For about 2 years I thought they were all really cute. But now I can not stand them. I feel like a 12 years old decorated our house. I know part of the reason for my choices came because those are the types of things that were on sale at the "Hobby Lobby" and were were students on a budget. But I also remember thinking that they were cute too, so I can't cut myself too much slack.<div>so now I am finding myself wanting to pretty much start from scratch. My Holiday decorating is getting much more formal. I love green bay leave garland, colorful glass balls inside different sized clear hurricane's and vases, deep reds and greens, festive floral arrangements, and lights. So all this juvenile decorating is driving me a little crazy. I plan on doing some decoration re-vamping the day after Christmas so that this time next year I am feeling more festive in my beautifully decorated home.</div><div>I guess I am getting older. Anybody need some snowmen?</div></div>Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-19409676742574720772007-11-25T22:28:00.000-08:002008-12-10T04:32:17.431-08:00"It's a Christmas miracle"-Vanessa<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjND52VqZrNqtpXvtwutlF3AvtX1ZuVQy63b9TxLzN7hku2eu895CLuzjqROJg6n6pHWX13fdwyuGY8QTY31iOV6SG0We7tjPqA9csZ6IzmD80sK8mp3GYAGohjtccS6PsulxLjW9vdVlo/s1600-h/pTRU1-3000819_alternate1_dt.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjND52VqZrNqtpXvtwutlF3AvtX1ZuVQy63b9TxLzN7hku2eu895CLuzjqROJg6n6pHWX13fdwyuGY8QTY31iOV6SG0We7tjPqA9csZ6IzmD80sK8mp3GYAGohjtccS6PsulxLjW9vdVlo/s320/pTRU1-3000819_alternate1_dt.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5137040005465853970" /></a><br />Don't tell my kids but I got them a swing set for Christmas. Actually I was the means by which I will have make my Parents the hero's with the best present, as they are the one's who bought it for them. <div>There is more to this simple story of Black Friday shopping, of course. And here it is....</div><div>I started looking through the ad's for black Friday about a week ago. There is a website where you can see the future ads, I don't know how I just know it made me happy. I spotted the Toys "R' Us ad and got to the back page where I gasped. A swing set with a glider, slide, teeter-totter and 3 swings for $70? I had to get it. </div><div>I awoke Friday morning at 4:15 and was out the door within 7 minutes. After finally finding a parking spot I walked over to claim my place in the line. As I walked up I saw the first 10 people sitting in their sleeping bags on camp chairs, they had obviously been there all night. I got a spot about a half a mile behind those crazy people... seriously. And watched as hundreds more came soon after. An hour later I got in the store and ran to where the big items were. I found the picture of my swing set. looked down and saw the sight that almost made me cry, no joke. There were no more tickets left which meant that the sets were gone. I asked a few workers to double check and they replied that they had already done so for many people and that they were in fact sold out. They had in fact done so with in the first 10 minutes of the store opening up. I mopped around the store and picked up 2 little Star Wars things for Luke, still disappointed beyond belief. But I wasn't about to have gone through it all and leave with nothing. </div><div>Then I found myself back over where the sets were pictured on the side wall of the store. I looked at the picture once again and sighed. No swinging for Ella on Christmas morning. Out of the corner of my eye I saw a large book. In it were all the other big ticket items that they carried. There was a photo and a ticket on each page. Swing sets, sand boxes, picnic tables, etc. I came upon the page which showed the set that I wanted. On the page was a ticket. Clearly never taken out when the sales were all set up. It had the old price and had probably been in there for months. This was it. This was the way that I was going to come away victoriously. I would bring the ticket up, play dumb and attempt to buy the swing. They left the ticket in there, it would not be right to turn me away. I was ready to play hard. I went to the 20 minute line, handed my ticket to the cashier and waited. She calmly said, "This item rang up at 50% off this price" </div><div>"Great!" I played dumb.</div><div>She took my money and asked me to wait in a designated spot. "They'll bring out your set shortly"</div><div>I sat waiting, wondering what my next move would be and how I would demand a rain check for their over sight. All of a sudden I heard a man saying, "its the nice Woman over there in the black sweatshirt." I sort of laughed inside. He called me nice. I was manipulating their system.</div><div>The man walked out with a big flat cart with a huge brown box on the top of it. "Where did you park, Ma'am?" I am sure the look of shock could be seen but all I did was lead him to my car where he put it in, thanked me and walked away.</div><div>I still don't know what happened. I should not have that swing set in my garage right now. But it did happen and it is in my garage. And I am thankful for my little miracle. O' there will be swinging on Christmas. Lots of swinging.</div>Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-69705757068084083972007-11-10T20:38:00.000-08:002008-12-10T04:32:17.640-08:00Me and my talents<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkhPla2mu0F3Jb25d8TcXJ_89vKQPUIE0qmhlJOKvHqo0Bt1QGchXNGfFm2dLg9AUEx2J1y0uY-2NUiLYmaDb8Aszgknd0dmueJlAnl6CXXFlpFS_8sc3i80qz4YPnAVkXfszIa0eqhdY/s1600-h/MyPicture.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkhPla2mu0F3Jb25d8TcXJ_89vKQPUIE0qmhlJOKvHqo0Bt1QGchXNGfFm2dLg9AUEx2J1y0uY-2NUiLYmaDb8Aszgknd0dmueJlAnl6CXXFlpFS_8sc3i80qz4YPnAVkXfszIa0eqhdY/s400/MyPicture.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5131448543269599426" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">My lesson tomorrow is on talents and it has motivated me to explore new talents and further develop the one's I have. For some reason we, well I, feel embarrassed to even publicly recognize the talents we have been blessed with. I think for some reason we feel embarrassed or shy... downplaying what we are good at. Denying any God-given skills and talents, isn't that terrible. How can we do as the Lord has asked and use our talents to bless others when we are not even able to acknowledge we have any? So, though I feel a bit strange doing so for all to read, I am going to write up some talents that I believe I have been blessed with. I am hoping that by doing so I can work consciously on improving them and will be blessed with even more talents in the future.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">1. I am a good friend. I try very hard to stay and keep in touch with people throughout the years. I make it a priority to make calls and get together. I love to listen and try hard to do so empathetically. I love my friends and place a high priority on trying to be a great one.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">2. I am a good photographer. I have much to learn and am really excited to further my knowledge in this area soon. I am passionate about taking pictures.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">3. I am optimistic. I never thought this to be categorized as a talent but as I grow older I see that it is. I try to see the positives in everything that happens.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">4. I am a good writer. I don't spend much time anymore doing this. I use to write a lot and have many loose sheets of paper floating around covered in poetic and creative word.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">5. I am musical. This is funny because I know nothing about music nor do I play any instrument. But I have always passionately loved beautiful music. Even as a young girl of maybe 6 or 7 I use to beg my friends who took lessons to play for me. I was front and center at all of their recitals. I am always hounding my "singer friends" to sing for me. I have a love for music and wish I could have seen where that would have taken me years ago. I still tell my Husband that as soon as we have money to do so I plan on buying a piano and taking lessons. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">6. I am athletic. This is a good example of not using a talent and loosing it. But I can usually pick up any athletic skill and play it well. When I was younger I was an exceptional athlete... I even got "athlete of the year" in J. High. Like I said, long ago... but it still shows traces.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">7. I am open-minded. I try to keep an open-mind about what others choose to do. I try not to judge others for who they are or what they do. There is almost always more to a story then we know and I try to love all people to the best of my ability. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">8. I am quick to forgive. I love to have peace and am always happy to re conciliate and forget.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">9. I am a good Mom. I feel like I do the best job I can and always strive to do and be better. I love to play and be silly with my kids. Be patient and understanding. I will do anything for my kids.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">10.I am a good communicator. This is especially wonderful in a marriage like mine where I married a man who communicates well with me. I am good at telling people what I feel and want in a non-confrontational way. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;"> </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">This was a lot harder to do then I thought and took forever. Maybe one day I can write down another 10 things without needing to think about it for so long. I believe that in order to be happy we need to specify the talents we have been given, develop them and use them to benefit others. I am going to set goals,practice, and be persistent in developing my own. And I know many of you that can help me along the way as you have mastered so many of these and more.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;"> </span></div>Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-21842080178957106642007-11-10T07:02:00.000-08:002008-12-10T04:32:18.531-08:00I love the silliness<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSEZHbz1IMcsb1BtjZb4Z-oq5vfNSjg7Aj3tqjO0EpiaC2PW1kf87_HngUTJ-2iusLUzVqFekAFXo5dNwpPDXRjwXzy59mbdq_8zSrtIffFSksD8haJubQo1UpAwORBbZG4B-11b2TSis/s1600-h/Photo+17.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSEZHbz1IMcsb1BtjZb4Z-oq5vfNSjg7Aj3tqjO0EpiaC2PW1kf87_HngUTJ-2iusLUzVqFekAFXo5dNwpPDXRjwXzy59mbdq_8zSrtIffFSksD8haJubQo1UpAwORBbZG4B-11b2TSis/s320/Photo+17.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5131341886346737842" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfPrcPQ648guCH27PDncFwTa7IqZ5ErEqH8Kuhj898IO16q4kZJ9goGiY58DqtvlWmJU9qfHpyRMUNJg8zmxjepyNLe948oZRcwKl9oRKV8VVuuiZy5ESVyq347oO_R-c8NtJRjTaNUn4/s1600-h/Photo+45.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfPrcPQ648guCH27PDncFwTa7IqZ5ErEqH8Kuhj898IO16q4kZJ9goGiY58DqtvlWmJU9qfHpyRMUNJg8zmxjepyNLe948oZRcwKl9oRKV8VVuuiZy5ESVyq347oO_R-c8NtJRjTaNUn4/s320/Photo+45.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5131341757497718946" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkiv3bYApF-GY-ayuoxFWg2k_HjN2gMwEnc_V-JvNPnwgPz__M68GVYKA48jAef_SlVuOs3N1gXZE8dqskafF8_CvX4BqNG0r0bHmIcIJI4z7x357zXKeIga_GLqFqBxK89i-dpc0CASY/s1600-h/Photo+31.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkiv3bYApF-GY-ayuoxFWg2k_HjN2gMwEnc_V-JvNPnwgPz__M68GVYKA48jAef_SlVuOs3N1gXZE8dqskafF8_CvX4BqNG0r0bHmIcIJI4z7x357zXKeIga_GLqFqBxK89i-dpc0CASY/s320/Photo+31.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5131341654418503826" /></a><br />Last night Brad and Emily and Dave and I had a fun time playing with "photo booth" on our MacBook. I haven't laughed so hard in a long while, we thought we were so funny.<br />I am really grateful for those times when its late at night and you're a little bit off your game. When you think your a bit funnier than you really are and laugh a little louder at things then you normally would. Being silly is always a welcome thing to be in our home. Especially when it involves family members and a distorting camera.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvOkuNmm55fwwxO7iwW7_BNrRCqd6Nv-3ClPkb3_n5A1ND69AeZf_WUQpn8MIgxcHjUdpaJjOE4WHucr9_AprxatT7BPcWE2PARv5SnGV08SA7wRX3bG9Rhw0rnGrLakplBUB16YX8OAw/s1600-h/Photo+28.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvOkuNmm55fwwxO7iwW7_BNrRCqd6Nv-3ClPkb3_n5A1ND69AeZf_WUQpn8MIgxcHjUdpaJjOE4WHucr9_AprxatT7BPcWE2PARv5SnGV08SA7wRX3bG9Rhw0rnGrLakplBUB16YX8OAw/s320/Photo+28.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5131227966634178690" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkVNqe8ordQJCOg_a_wL_EsfDQOV32ZJu9M503n0A3BbHfNZPKE48oPaHgNlHnymRJckxjmubhnd8tgz-csfUJRJA2Dc2v-fU6q6N-3NSOJW0c2JSnsFN12AckOPP697o3evGQsaDRimA/s1600-h/Photo+34.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkVNqe8ordQJCOg_a_wL_EsfDQOV32ZJu9M503n0A3BbHfNZPKE48oPaHgNlHnymRJckxjmubhnd8tgz-csfUJRJA2Dc2v-fU6q6N-3NSOJW0c2JSnsFN12AckOPP697o3evGQsaDRimA/s320/Photo+34.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5131227885029800050" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT7BOP2godO5LSIdEO-BTKrF9B-dLdCrmLwANz6xZlY4SReHII-pWd6L-24vMpg1TF71UEvAl9hPVFIaosoZ6phNUEoFQcQW-sh0XQBNbSe13XZV40HaDtPsbD8m5ndnscDeWk4lu0eqk/s1600-h/Photo+29.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT7BOP2godO5LSIdEO-BTKrF9B-dLdCrmLwANz6xZlY4SReHII-pWd6L-24vMpg1TF71UEvAl9hPVFIaosoZ6phNUEoFQcQW-sh0XQBNbSe13XZV40HaDtPsbD8m5ndnscDeWk4lu0eqk/s320/Photo+29.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5131227790540519522" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVqP0u08ebizsNSDCfkfpTeZddzLjp5q-GvhyZe60QX50ULaxXnP1jXYfupFleE-ey8RVfy17mqwf8gc7ARxgcDVQcs3YCUJJXsxvk8WoKooNqL020cHLIHLotBwy1in3_2PPzxCY62ys/s1600-h/Photo+26.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVqP0u08ebizsNSDCfkfpTeZddzLjp5q-GvhyZe60QX50ULaxXnP1jXYfupFleE-ey8RVfy17mqwf8gc7ARxgcDVQcs3YCUJJXsxvk8WoKooNqL020cHLIHLotBwy1in3_2PPzxCY62ys/s320/Photo+26.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5131227627331762258" /></a>Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-88402101988989227682007-11-03T21:28:00.001-07:002007-11-03T21:45:07.190-07:00I am gratefulThe happiest moment of my day today cam as I reflected on the blessings I have been given in my life and the things that I am grateful for.<br />there are too many things to list but I will express some things I feel grateful for in my life.<br />My Family. both extended and immediate. I have the most supportive and fun Family and not a day goes by that I don't wonder how I got so lucky.<br />The ability to have children. This past week especially I feel that I can, in the most minimal way, appreciate the agony of not being able to bear children. My heart goes out to those Woman and I truly pray for them to feel comforted. I feel blessed beyond belief that I have been able to participate in the joy(and agony) of bearing children.<br />My Testimony. I am grateful that I have an unshakeable testimony of the truthfulness of the gospel. I am thankful for my membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I know that Joseph Smith was indeed the great restorer of this, the Lord's church. And I know the Book of Mormon to be the word of God. I am thankful that we are lead by a Prophet of God in these days. I have faith that by following the teachings of the Savior I can live happily. I am grateful that I have been given the tools to raise my children, have a great marriage and be an Eternal Family.<br />My Friends. I have some of the most amazing friends in my life. I am humbled by being around them and feel so blessed by knowing and loving them.<br />And then many small things. The ocean, the cool breeze on my face in the evenings, the sun as it warms my skin a I get out of a pool, delicious foods, kind strangers, art, beautiful music, clean sheets as I go to bed late in the evening, telephones to catch up with those whom I love so much, selfless acts, leaders and teachers who give so much of their time, cameras and camcorders to capture priceless gifts of time.<br />And so, so much more.<br />I am truly blessed and am so grateful for all I have been given.Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-12298354781484497282007-11-03T08:35:00.003-07:002008-12-10T04:32:18.674-08:00I love this shot<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB7EG9DDF_rFD6t_7jxHQ9sSjgf2pUqPjnfFWa_A7FcIEi4DCc9S8NRA_dx38m4unnq-aWNjFCqsgeP19OHCj4folwmvFZqQp1lctAIIpx20P6mmBseHGhDDak7eOCAwITb8VBBYsKAV4/s1600-h/Untitled-1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB7EG9DDF_rFD6t_7jxHQ9sSjgf2pUqPjnfFWa_A7FcIEi4DCc9S8NRA_dx38m4unnq-aWNjFCqsgeP19OHCj4folwmvFZqQp1lctAIIpx20P6mmBseHGhDDak7eOCAwITb8VBBYsKAV4/s400/Untitled-1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5128638250489533778" /></a><br /> Some pictures that you get seem to have a perfect feel to them. I feel this way about this photograph that I took of Ella. She just walked over to me and I immediately noticed that she was wearing one of Luke's shoes. The sentiments to me are priceless. She really does love and adore her big Brother and is always trying to emulate who he is.Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-9721382257635185972007-11-02T07:31:00.000-07:002007-11-02T07:46:40.052-07:00I'm back!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Gosh, its been a long while, hasn't it? </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Yesterday we had the privilege of having one of my oldest friends and her cute Family over for Dinner. I have been friends with Mary since I was probably about 3. We grew up in the same Ward and I have always really loved spending time with her. She and her Husband even went to School out in Chicago so we had the chance to see them a bit while we were out there, it was always nice to see a familiar face from the past. And the greatest part is that Dave really gets along well with her Husband Jason... that doesn't always happen with Dave.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">So we had a really yummy dinner that Dave made, some great company, and Mary made the most delicious key lime pie I have ever tasted. The best part was how well the kids played with eachother. Amelia, who is 2 1/2, Luke and Ella were pretty much non-existent. We got to sit at the table and chat while the kids just played and hungout in the Family room. They got along so well and had a lot of fun together. And I got to hold their handsome little baby, Finnley, which always makes me happy. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">So yesterday was a really great day which had an even sweeter ending. I love old friends, they are the best.</span></div>Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-27455321560252459262007-10-27T15:37:00.001-07:002008-12-10T04:32:19.469-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixuYR4DB9wb8Vgco3sDlJxxsZS7P9bQqoGOr-OwqBivXW8y4xtkaXWA0yWC4DBfOtTCTZumrp3FuYWzoqCOY7h2RYP9ap7PwWde1NJCGrxH0_QBAuiGWS6sxKkchJ-Sq6Pn-9H9oT8ZPw/s1600-h/pink-tutuweb.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixuYR4DB9wb8Vgco3sDlJxxsZS7P9bQqoGOr-OwqBivXW8y4xtkaXWA0yWC4DBfOtTCTZumrp3FuYWzoqCOY7h2RYP9ap7PwWde1NJCGrxH0_QBAuiGWS6sxKkchJ-Sq6Pn-9H9oT8ZPw/s320/pink-tutuweb.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5126174060248093810" /></a><br />Pink ballet shoes and tutu's make me happy.<br />I just wanted to see if this worked actually.<div><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWWi5BuFDwVomswlfO8VlHUh7LI_bPV0usuC2Bk1EPYhx-oNkDNRKkKp-M0k3p59ENo84FAPWe0fLTeG8_icfM2TQZYQTtpDXUkO0pOC3uVmM3AcGrSMudiRZRtHVTUcI5rM5gcGClDq4/s1600-h/pinkshoesweb.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWWi5BuFDwVomswlfO8VlHUh7LI_bPV0usuC2Bk1EPYhx-oNkDNRKkKp-M0k3p59ENo84FAPWe0fLTeG8_icfM2TQZYQTtpDXUkO0pOC3uVmM3AcGrSMudiRZRtHVTUcI5rM5gcGClDq4/s320/pinkshoesweb.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5126169138215572578" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtZIqCpgLkggj6aadt7yYs4T5v8249anFFoLo6NqwlFbH1JBWU4DFyfJzxxU5lv-ZxfNim3S7cWMNuiQQS1PayVvLPxr9hkN9lYnND9PWJolG3JxfRFpvQX3vvf9aIFBBD8kmQURNkrZQ/s1600-h/lla-blue-eyesweb.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtZIqCpgLkggj6aadt7yYs4T5v8249anFFoLo6NqwlFbH1JBWU4DFyfJzxxU5lv-ZxfNim3S7cWMNuiQQS1PayVvLPxr9hkN9lYnND9PWJolG3JxfRFpvQX3vvf9aIFBBD8kmQURNkrZQ/s320/lla-blue-eyesweb.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5126149862402348114" /></a></div>Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-59419005120922646932007-10-25T22:54:00.000-07:002008-12-10T04:32:19.659-08:00David Lee<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizc7Sdf_txlg2hq2CLyTSEb88IOB-drkvncsPLPYuOsrFOzb1gsFAJvUkIwZcffkEiCNIF1EBg8N-f_PfFw2SAtCTasooMf9QGYNcABKHbknQNdzwRpnZA5SoOB2aB8brwq2jaRW78Ngk/s1600-h/DSC_0145.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizc7Sdf_txlg2hq2CLyTSEb88IOB-drkvncsPLPYuOsrFOzb1gsFAJvUkIwZcffkEiCNIF1EBg8N-f_PfFw2SAtCTasooMf9QGYNcABKHbknQNdzwRpnZA5SoOB2aB8brwq2jaRW78Ngk/s320/DSC_0145.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5125521302528513074" /></a><br />I know this is getting old but I needed to express once more how in love I am with my Husband. This week has been a rollercoaster. I don't think that I could have gotten through it without Dave. Actually, I don't even want to imagine going through it without him. He has been my rock. He has been so strong for us all and has just forgotten himself and taken care of us, his Family. I have yet to hear him complain about how tired he has been or how crazy things are for him. This week has been the worst week possible for him to need to be with the kids all day long. With the fires we have been so limited on what they can all do an the kids have pretty much been cooped up inside for days. Thankfully we have had some great friends and family insist on taking them for a while... this has meant more then I could say. It has given Dave a break and made my kids so happy.<br />I am really exhausted and am going up to bed but just wanted to quickly reiterate how in love I am with my Husband.Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-79581304950855322922007-10-21T22:19:00.001-07:002008-12-10T04:32:19.819-08:00Thanks Dave<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgalW9ukfV4NgvlTT54tXIPcVWP9J_zy-Ry8mG4w1HLllaR50GTJ_vRGmvifwXA5jIm0o5gu5Cvcx64AJ62Yb0Jfu7G4Ia0rwvHgBsO5-0jSD6M0Tgx8fDrphkwJ6vUIJDhTB1wmsmsQog/s1600-h/DSC_0286.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgalW9ukfV4NgvlTT54tXIPcVWP9J_zy-Ry8mG4w1HLllaR50GTJ_vRGmvifwXA5jIm0o5gu5Cvcx64AJ62Yb0Jfu7G4Ia0rwvHgBsO5-0jSD6M0Tgx8fDrphkwJ6vUIJDhTB1wmsmsQog/s320/DSC_0286.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5124162713781170162" /></a><br />I was not feeling in tip top shape today. Dave and Luke went to Church while I stayed home with Ella.. she was napping and I wanted her to get some good sleep.<br />Ella woke up about a hour after Dave left and wanted to play. She was being so cute and so funny, I felt bad that I just couldn't do the things I know she wanted me to. She was a good spot and watched some show's while I rested on the couch. <br />Dave, my sweet, thoughtful Husband, came home a bit early knowing that I was tired and needed to sleep. He walked in and took over as he sent me upstairs to sleep. He was such a good sport about it too. I know he had a long day with the kids while I was not quite in the game; but he never once complained. That makes me so happy. It makes me feel so guilty when I know the kids are misbehaving and I can't do much to help. It makes all the difference in the world when Dave is cheerful and happy to help... or at least puts on the face that he feels that way.<br />Thanks honey for being such a wonderful Husband and friend. I appreciate all you do for me, especially today!Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-86656309228575625482007-10-20T19:36:00.000-07:002008-12-10T04:32:20.042-08:00Clean makes me really, really happy!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglSPa_wBf-R7LJpfutevpi9wlQ3UGUn_Tjwb3KojNRj4BVp_tSWEAZ4v4lS9Hfck-egSpWv2EDOZ1YBUqa2e7bHuAfvvHMFElOP_yQ4PIGrPhrssuGQenoPj8OGIrBBfjEo77wBazBFQ4/s1600-h/MI7003.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglSPa_wBf-R7LJpfutevpi9wlQ3UGUn_Tjwb3KojNRj4BVp_tSWEAZ4v4lS9Hfck-egSpWv2EDOZ1YBUqa2e7bHuAfvvHMFElOP_yQ4PIGrPhrssuGQenoPj8OGIrBBfjEo77wBazBFQ4/s320/MI7003.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5123787084531396578" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I am really happy right now because I finally got done with the last of my cleaning. Here are the things I did this evening. Keep in mind that the house I am living in is 2700 sq. feet.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">vacuumed the entire house</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">dusted the entire house</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">did laundry</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">cleaned the kids rooms</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">polished the wood</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">cleaned all of the wood floors on my hands and knees. Which, frankly, is the only way to really do a great job in my opinion.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">cleaned the bathrooms- with Dave doing most of this with a bit of help from Luke, who loves to clean!!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">moped the kitchen floor-again, Dave was actually on this one. I went to start and he would not let me.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;">So I am know so very happy. I love being in a clean house. I feel I do a really good job of keeping a tidy house but I have slacked lately on doing some good, deep cleaning. Although I am addicted to vacuuming and do it at least 2 times a week.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;"><br /></span></div><br />O' And I cleaned the Kitchen too.Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-59773603039104446042007-10-20T07:06:00.000-07:002007-10-20T07:27:21.152-07:00I love staying home<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Yesterday was a day I was dreading a little bit. I was asked to cover some time ago for a girl at my old job. Dr. Kroes is still a good friend of mine and working at the office was the best job I have ever had... so I said I would help out. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I was kind of dreading going into work. I have covered before and although having a 2 hour, uninterrupted lunch was a beautiful thing, it was really hard for me to be away from my kids all day. Friday morning came and I eventually wallowed out the door and got on the 405 where I sat in that wonderful CA traffic. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Work actually went great. I was able to resolve quite a few issues, set the office up on some new, updated software, and save Dr. K a few thousand dollars from an Insurance company who was giving him mis-information. I felt successful and accomplished. I was greatly appreciated; which felt really, really good. I got to chat with lots of old friends and meet a lot of new patients. It should have been the perfect day. But I just wanted to be elsewhere... all 8 hours. And when I pulled up into my driveway, after another glorious 45 minutes on the 405, I ran in the door where my kids ditched what they were doing and bolted for my arms. That was all the love and appreciation I wanted in the world.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">I am so thankful that I am able to stay home with my kids. I love being a Mom and Homemaker. I would rather have a long, hard day with my kids at home then the best possible day at an office.</span></div>Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-74113990312165662442007-10-18T18:41:00.000-07:002007-10-18T18:45:17.497-07:00I heart Pedro'sI was having a major craving for one of my favorite place to eat... Pedro's. Its a small fast-food mexican place with the yummiest food. It's always worth the drive to San Clemente. My Family has been eating there for years and it not only taste's amazing but I am always flooded with many memories from over the years.<br />So there it it. Simple and to the point. Pedro's is fabulous and it has made me a very happy girl tonight!Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-80795943849471101352007-10-17T07:28:00.000-07:002007-10-17T07:34:39.322-07:00Massage chair and soft feetToday is an easy day to describe what made me feel the happiest. Grandma and I took some time and went to Happy Nails where we were pampered by a relaxing pedicure. Grandma had never had one before and she was super cute about it. They had those big massage chairs and she just kept saying how good it felt on her back. One of the girls who worked there asked me if she was my Mom, I replied that not only was she my Grandma but that she just turned 91. Everyone in the salon stared at her with disbelief. I think Grandma likes it when people assume she is in her 70's. She deserves all the wide-eye's... she looks and acts like she is 20 years younger than she really is!<br />So I got to be pampered and relax. It was wonderful! I seldom get pedicures and every time I do it makes my day. I really need to do it more than once every year!Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-79800851194154220982007-10-15T21:20:00.000-07:002008-12-10T04:32:20.344-08:00I'm sorry too, Luke<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJSpoECcXC-MKhnrOTJoRJWBLAYGEWYRZC7k-zuIW1D0RW47uwc8AZCITrFNhdo1DRt7TRgbmDAimOcVNveG9LTLzhEIO7Eo2ghM9wC5CPd3xxeeuO4EaLz6hlEU5qPL6VEwKfNEUxv_4/s1600-h/DSC_0019.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJSpoECcXC-MKhnrOTJoRJWBLAYGEWYRZC7k-zuIW1D0RW47uwc8AZCITrFNhdo1DRt7TRgbmDAimOcVNveG9LTLzhEIO7Eo2ghM9wC5CPd3xxeeuO4EaLz6hlEU5qPL6VEwKfNEUxv_4/s320/DSC_0019.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5121960546609557186" /></a><br />Just a funny little thing that Luke said... that made me smile and laugh the most today.<br />Luke had a really rough afternoon yesterday and it carried through into this afternoon. I think he must have snuck some dairy into his diet somehow, maybe Nursery?, because it reminded me of his rough days before we cut the dairy out. Anyhow, I was really tired and frustrated. He was at my Moms and was being really hyper and grumpy. I pulled the plug and told him we had to go home, his response was less than cooperative. After some firm words and being physically taken to the car and calmed down he finally started to mellow out. <br />This evening he said" Mommy, I was really grumpy and crazy today"<br />"I know Buddy. It makes me really sad when you get like that"<br />'I'm really sorry that I was sad and grumpy, Mommy."<br />"O' Honey. Thats so nice of you to say that. I forgive you and I'm really glad that you're happy now. I love you"<br />Luke pauses for a few moments and continues.<br />"And Mommy. You're sorry that you were so mean to me."<br />I love this sweet boy. And he was right. I am sorry Luke. You are such a good boy and I love you so much. I am sorry that sometimes I get so frustrated. I will be a better more patient Mommy tomorrow. Thanks for teaching me so much and making me a better Mom and person. You make me happier than I ever thought I could be.Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-68444270609368521882007-10-14T20:25:00.000-07:002008-12-10T04:32:20.657-08:00My Sister<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrCLDkSvD4jy3QeKC3bJOBRSe_iXhiws7eg89l-vBIyuwYGAtT6pLNQ9fJih7ZGRf8bc55evKQfVSWxCqiqWKNIHoK4CjLT4-rGASmtzPesKoVJSN_aSX2wRJsrci_LzxAOnYRK2W3VqM/s1600-h/DSC_0024.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrCLDkSvD4jy3QeKC3bJOBRSe_iXhiws7eg89l-vBIyuwYGAtT6pLNQ9fJih7ZGRf8bc55evKQfVSWxCqiqWKNIHoK4CjLT4-rGASmtzPesKoVJSN_aSX2wRJsrci_LzxAOnYRK2W3VqM/s320/DSC_0024.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5121405885943017138" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBKR5hSGufARfKWv_VswC2CGfSL5MOHZKp8GuTZS4WQAgPv8E15-hIFt77bzkVXMv-xkAzIfSczWQhcLcg8Mj6kQ56ikHLzmt2afGNnwI8kj3rrfQ-LHR3vyKGdPyoALPIdq1RdSQdIAs/s1600-h/DSC_0011.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBKR5hSGufARfKWv_VswC2CGfSL5MOHZKp8GuTZS4WQAgPv8E15-hIFt77bzkVXMv-xkAzIfSczWQhcLcg8Mj6kQ56ikHLzmt2afGNnwI8kj3rrfQ-LHR3vyKGdPyoALPIdq1RdSQdIAs/s320/DSC_0011.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5121405800043671202" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The happiest part of my day today occurred this evening. I was all ready to blog about Church today and how nice it was to be able to listen and to give a lesson. No kids, silence and reflection. But then I talked to my Sister, Charity, for an hour and determined that makes me really happy and rejuvenates me.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">My Sister is almost 7 years my senior but we have always been close. Even as a small child what little I remember usually has something to do with her. I think she may have taken on the "Mom" role with me and I think that I really loved getting so much of her attention. Most photo's in my album growing up show me attached to some part of her. Even when she came home from her Mission, when we had empty bedrooms, we opted to share a room. I felt loved and pampered by her. Protected and esteemed. To me she was all that I needed, she was my hero and my best friend. And she never let that go to her head or took advantage of how I felt. She was the Big Sister I always felt I should have been to Megan growing up but so often was not.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">I feel like I can talk to Charity about everything and anything. Sometimes I fear her honesty but that is why I so often go to her directly. She is witty and funny. I love her, her Husband and her kids. I am grateful for the many joys and happiness' that she has brought and continues to bring to my life. I so badly want Ella to have a Sister one day because I can not imagine who I would be or where I would go without mine.... the best sisters.</span></div>Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-85654348941511196232007-10-13T20:23:00.000-07:002007-10-13T20:31:36.000-07:00Ruby's Birthday Party<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I always thought it would be fun to have a baby around Halloween and tonight proved my theory. We went to Ruby's, our friend's the Miller's daughter, second Birthday Party this evening. It was so cute and so much fun. Betsy did such a great job on this cute, Halloween themed party. She had homemade Root Bear, which I will now crave night and day, brimming over with dry ice. Festive foods, cute decorations... and even a bounce house! My kids will be talking about her party for a long time to come. They loved seeing everyone all dressed up. Luke was introducing himself as "Luke Skywalker" all night long. He was thrilled to finally get to wear his hallowed get-up and put it on 3 hours before the party even started.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">I loved to catch up with old friends and watch my kids play with their kids. What a trip. A big group of us were roomate's not too long ago and now our kids are growing up and playing with each other. Its so fun to watch.</span></div>Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800965768910206673.post-64809892423729937322007-10-13T07:11:00.000-07:002007-10-13T07:18:44.003-07:00my kids make me happyYesterday was a really good day. The best part of the day is that the kids were just so good! It seemed like from sun up until bedtime they were just cooperative, cheerful, and fun... an A+ combination. We have been trying to keep the TV off more recently and I think that forces me to be more interactive and also the kids are playing and socializing more with one another. Not only are the days filled with more fun but they seem to be happier, which makes me a really happy Mommy.<br />I am proud of my kids and the things they do and say. They are both so sweet, kind and funny. I feel really blessed to have been given the chance to be their Mom.Jillyboohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375310081204863794noreply@blogger.com0