Power Hour

I'm grateful to engage in my daily Power Hour each morning with prayer, meditation, exercise, and scripture study. It just starts my day off right, and I have more energy and joy the rest of the day! This morning, I woke up at 5:45 am, knelt to pray, and then jumped up to head to my BodyPump Strength Training class like I do every Wednesday. Afterwards, I dropped by Smith's to buy fresh fruit and veggies, and returned home just in time to make homemade oatmeal for my family at 8am, read scriptures together, and then sneak away to my room for my own personal scripture study time. It felt awesome to accomplish so much and really take care of myself spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically so then I have more strength and energy to take care of my family effectively the rest of the day. My friend and mentor, Nathalie Bowman, challenged me to have Power Hour every morning for 2 weeks straight. I'm supposed to think of a reward for myself if I'm solid with that goal. Any ideas? I could use your input, friends!

What are YOU grateful for?

Hogle Zoo

I'm grateful to live so close to Hogle Zoo. I know it's not as big or cool as some zoos, but I like that it's simple and small enough to walk around and see everything in only a few hours. My new friend Jill who I met at the temple last last month invited us to join them on their pass. So we went this morning and loved the life-like animatronic dinosaurs that are part of Zoorassic Park. Last time we went was on free zoo day in February when it was chilly outside so not as many animals were out roaming around. This morning, all the animals were out and active, and we were loving it!

What are YOU grateful for?

Rain

I'm grateful for the rain. It just makes me want to open the windows to hear and smell that goodness and then snuggle my honey. I'm still enjoying the smell of rain this morning from last night's storm. And I love how the ground looks so fresh and clean still. But I think my favorite thing about the rain is when my kids run outside and splash in all the puddles, giggling like crazy, and making me smile.

What are YOU grateful for?

When Wade goes out of town

I'm grateful when Wade goes out of town once in a while. He was at a work retreat up in the mountains for 3 days and returned home just in time to meet me at last night's fundraiser. When he's gone, it makes me appreciate him more and all he does for our family. It also motivates me to tackle my TO DO list. The house has been out of order lately since we had packed several boxes and taken down pictures from the wall in preparation to move in July. When we decided to just stay put for a few more months, we felt unsettled, trying to figure out whether to continue packing or unpack and feel at home again. What a mess the house has been! So while Wade was gone, I spent hours dejunking, organizing, and cleaning to surprise him. I hadn't accomplished that much in a long time. It felt good. I told him he needs to go out of town at least twice a year so I can get more big projects done. haha

What are YOU grateful for?

Children with special needs

I'm grateful for children like my niece who inspire me and help me appreciate my health, when she has countless doctor visits and testing for her Mitochondrial Disease. Tonight, Wade and I attended a fundraiser for the Ramsi Reed Foundation with Wade's family. My sister in law, Diana, and her family have worked so hard to create a special experience for everyone to raise money and awareness for Mitochondrial Disease. The event was a huge success, but funding is still needed for hospital bills and research. If you want some good deals for yourself, knowing it will support a good cause, check out the Ramsi Reed Foundation page on facebook. It's pretty awesome!

What are YOU grateful for?

My Kitchen

I'm grateful for my kitchen. And if it's clean, then I'm smiling even more. There's so much space to prepare and cook food or to lay out trays when we're having parties. :) Of course, more space also means more to clean. It was a mess early this morning, and so I busted out a deep clean of my kitchen along with the rest of the house so I could surprise Wade when he gets back in town tomorrow. After schooltime with my kids, my little sister joined me in my kitchen so we could make meals together (Pork Tacos and Spinach Spaghetti Pie). I was so glad to have her with me as a good motivation to plan ahead. Now I have several nights worth of delicious meals already prepared for my family. And it was a bonus to be able to connect with her and see my brand new nephew while we were together. We're thinking we need to do this at least twice a month.

What are YOU grateful for?

Monkey Bars

I'm grateful for monkey bars. It's a pretty cool thing as a mom to see your kids excel at something, even if it's as simple as the monkey bars. They both can fly along those monkey bars from side to side, like it's no one's business. Wow, I am always impressed. Plus, it makes them happy and gets their energy out so they're more calm after we return home from the park.
What are YOU grateful for?

Park City Weekend

I'm grateful for the time we spent with Chris and Lyndsie Miles last weekend on our Park City getaway. I'm also grateful that Garret and Carrie Gunderson offered their beautiful cabin for us to stay in. It was such a treat! After putting the kids to bed (all 7 of them!) we stayed up late just laughing and talking about work, life, and our crazy kiddos. Saturday, Lyndsie and I made a phenomenal breakfast for the troups, then we all experienced the Alpine Slide for the first time. It was awesome! We'll be back for sure. :)

What are YOU grateful for?

County Fair

I'm grateful for the local county fairs (and state fair, too). Brynn, Traci, and I had so much at the Davis County Fair last week watching our kids get so excited while enjoying the roller coaster, riding the ponies, watching the diving dogs, getting balloons, interacting with the animals at the petting zoo, and of course eating snow cones. It was a good day. Free entrance is always nice, but even better is time spent with friends. I feel so blessed!

What are YOU grateful for?

Homeschool

I'm grateful for the opportunity I have to teach my children at home. Homeschooling our children was one of the most difficult decisions Wade and I have ever made, but we feel so much peace about it. Discovering the Thomas Jefferson Education totally opened my eyes to the amazing possibilities of a different kind of education. I don't know if we'll keep them home forever. I personally LOVED high school, but since middle school completely destroyed my self esteem, (anyone else feel that way? haha), maybe we'll teach them at home until they go to high school. Or maybe we'll teach them at home for just a few years or have them go to public school in the morning and homeschool them in the afternoon or have them attend a charter or private school in a few years. There are so many options and each child is different. It may not be right for every family, but for now, despite the social pressures we have been overwhelmed with, we know it's right for our family. We have plans for lots of playdates and field trips so we can get out of the house and explore and connect with other families, so that will be fun. I've said before, my soul purpose in life is to teach and empower children, so I'm starting with my own, and I'm genuinely excited about it!

What are YOU grateful for?

Scriptures

I'm grateful for the scriptures. I taught a lesson in young women's today about the importance of scripture study. Ironically, I hadn't been reading on my own all week so this lesson was definitely more for me than the girls. :) Some weeks, I'm on a roll with my power hour and study the scriptures in the morning along with prayer, mediation, and working out. Other weeks, I need a gentle reminder. After this lesson, I feel inspired to truly bring the scriptures back into my life on personal level. We study the illustrated Book of Mormon with the children every morning, which we all enjoy. (The kids REALLY get into the parts about the good guys and bad guys.) But there's something special about studying the word of God on my own and trying to find life's answers for myself.
Do you remember this Mormonad? It was one of my favorites growing up in the 80's.

What are YOU grateful for?

Downtown Salt Lake City

I'm grateful for downtown Salt Lake City and all the cool events they have happening all the time. Traci and I met up at the Radio Disney Celebration at the Gallivan Center last week and had a blast! Our kids were all in heaven with the carnival like activities and rides, bounce house slides, and of course face painting. Free events + kids + lots of sunscreen = happy mamas and happy kids!

What are YOU grateful for?

Swim Lessons

I'm grateful for swim lessons. The last two weeks of swim lessons at Murray Pool has been one of the highlights of our summer. My kids have turned into little fishes and developed confidence as they've jumped off the diving board, gone down the big slide, and learned to swim by themselves. They both had fantastic teachers, and I'm just grateful for the whole experience. What are YOU grateful for?

Dr. Jerry Dugger

I'm grateful for my chiropractor, Dr. Jerry Dugger. I haven't been feeling well this week, and after today's adjustment he did on me, I felt SO much more energy and strength! Wahoo!!! I believe chiropractic care is essential to good physical and mental health. When people ask me how I've been able to overcome my Postpartum Depression, I give Dr. Jerry the credit for getting to the root of the problem and having me include quality supplements, good nutrition, and exercise in my daily life. He was also key in helping us discover Emily's gluten sensitivity (no wonder she had year round congestion and severe eczema). He also has helped Wade eliminate the contant back pain and headaches he used to struggle with. Pretty much, we're all happier since seeing Dr. Jerry. So if you ask me if I'm a fan of chiropractors...I will give you a resounding, "YES!" Next question, please. :)

PS) If you live in the Salt Lake area and decide to take control of your life by becoming a patient of Dr. Jerry's, I'll take you to lunch because you'll be more fun to be around after seeing him, I promise!

What are YOU grateful for?

Temples

I'm grateful for the temples all around the world that bless my life in many ways. Growing up, I always considered the St. George Temple to be my Princess Castle where my Prince would take me to be married and live happily ever after. Thankfully, 8 years ago, Wade FINALLY convinced me to marry him. ;) And we've both learned it's a daily CHOICE to create a rockin' marriage where we can truly have happiness in our home and for "ever after." I'm just thankful that we have temples where we can return often to serve and recommit to be our best. Tonight, as we attended the Salt Lake Temple, I felt more peace in my heart than I have in a long time, and for that, I'm very grateful.

What are YOU grateful for?

Good Communication

I'm grateful for good communication. Tonight, I had a heart to heart with my best friend. We've been so busy lately that it feels like it's been forever since we've had a long talk like that where we discussed our dreams and goals together. I'm grateful Wade is patient with me as we continue to learn new things about one another, even after 8 years of marriage. And I'm grateful for the depth, love, trust, and connection we share when we take the time to effectively communicate.

What are YOU grateful for?

Church Magazines

I'm grateful for the Ensign, New Era, and the Friend. I glean a new insight or principle each time I pick up one of these magazines. I love it! The Tradition of a Balanced, Righteous Life really inspired me. And A Birthday Wish Fulfilled was fun to read with the kids for Family Home Evening tonight. We decided to start our own jar of warm fuzzies to represent all the good deeds we do for one another. We're kind of excited. :)

What are YOU grateful for?

Sunday Naps

(photo from Fififlowers.com)

I'm grateful for Sunday naps. After some wonderful spiritual reflection at church, to come home and rest for a bit is one of my favorite things in this life.

What are YOU grateful for?

Live BIG jr

I'm grateful for oppotunities to empower children such as Live BIG Jr. with Gerald Rogers. Volunteering at this event the last two days has been humbling and exciting as I've watched these youth discover their full potential. As many of you know, I'm taking a few years off from teaching preschool so I can focus on my own little ones. But when I'm ready to return, Shining Stars Preschool will truly be a place where the children learn to SHINE in this world by recognizing their greatness and indivudal gifts and staying positive with their eyes set on their goals. The parents will even be invited monthly to attend empowerment trainings to encourage these lifestyle changes to continue at home and in their lives, too. I'm stoked!

What are YOU grateful for?

My gift with children

I'm grateful for my gift with children. I feel God has put my on this Earth to INSPIRE others, help them recognize their incredible GIFTS, and bring them JOY, particularly with children. I love, love, love teaching and nurturing children through my preschool, summer camp, music class, singing songs with them as the Primary Chorister, serving the youth in our ward, playdates at the park, volunteering at youth camps like I am this weekend, and especially in raising my own sweet children. I feel so blessed to be surrounded by young people as I teach them and LEARN FROM THEM.

What are YOU grateful for?

Cherry Hill

I'm grateful for Cherry Hill and other water parks that bring families together to have fun and create memories. After swim lessons at 9am, we spent the rest of the day today with Wade's wonderful family at this delightful water park. I had never been inside the park and was pleasantly surprised at all it had to offer. And you know I'm a big fan of those beautiful mature trees that surround the park. Who doesn't love some good shade on hot summer days? Very nice.

What are YOU grateful for?

Sprinklers

I'm grateful for sprinklers. It's one more excuse to become like a child, running right into the line of fire to cool down on a warm day. And at the same time, it's been so nice to have working sprinklers to keep my yard green and pretty. Yay!

What are YOU grateful for?

Horses

I'm grateful for horses. They are beautiful and brilliant and never cease to amaze me. I would love to have one of my own someday. Remember one of my new favorite movies? I'm a little excited to own it so I can watch and rewatch the coolest horse chase scenes ever! Thank you Uncle Seth and Aunt Renee for such a wonderful horseback riding experience when we were with you in Idaho. I have been several times before and always enjoy it, but this was Wade's first time, and the children have only ridden small ponies at the fair, so needless to say, we were all thrilled to be around these magnificent animals.

What are YOU grateful for?

Tubing down the canal

I'm grateful for the tradition of tubing down the canal in Groveland, Idaho. It does not get any better than this, I tell ya!

What are YOU grateful for?

Cousins

I'm grateful for my cousins. I have some amazing cousins (you know who you are Callisters, Langs, Reeds, and Maughans!) And it's been special to see my children interact with their children. At the family reunion, I was in charge of the children's games, like usual, and I had a blast watching the cousins so happy together during the relay games, shark tag, parachute games, slip and slide, tubing down the canal, and even just the simple random moments like making grass pillows.

What are YOU grateful for?

Slip and Slides

I'm grateful for slip and slides.

What are YOU grateful f0r?

Family Reunions

I'm grateful for family reunions. It just makes me happy to have generations of family gathered together in one place, connecting with one another and celebrating eternal families.

What are YOU grateful for?

Camping Tent

I'm grateful for our camping tent. Last week, we slept without the rain cover so we could see the stars at night, but it was still nice to be inside the main part of the tent to avoid the mosquitoes. We've had our little 4-man tent since our first year of marriage, 8 years ago, and even though our family has grown, somehow all 5 of us managed to fit comfortably inside it for our family reunion. Let's just say now we better understand the phrase, "Nice and cozy." :)

What are YOU grateful for?

Campfires

I'm grateful for campfires. Have you ever sat around a campfire with good friends and family, just staring at the flames and enjoying the calming affect it has on you? Or have you roasted a marshmallow to perfection so you could devour a s'more or two? Some one my favorite conversations have taken place while sitting around a campfire. Campfires mean connection, and I'm grateful for that.

What are YOU grateful for?

Small Towns

I'm grateful for small towns, especially on irrigation day! I grew up in a small town on a 1 acre farm, and have fond memories of running through the water whenever we'd irrigate the lawn. Last week in Idaho, my kids had the same opportunity and loved it! Thanks to cousin Nancy for sharing this joy with us. Good times!

What are YOU grateful for? And while you're thinking about that, if you know of a home for sell in a small town, give me a call. :)

Slash Pads

I'm grateful for splash pads on warm summer days! The splash pad in Rexburg, Idaho is quite impressive, complete with water slides, all for free. The kiddos LOVED it. But really, we're happy with any splash pad because doesn't it feel so good to cool down when it's warm outside?

What are YOU grateful for?