Happy Berfcake Alishka!

Sunday, November 30th--Tomorrow is my sister, Alishia's, 37th birthday. She wanted to eat at the Golden Corral, a buffet-style restaurant so we headed down to Salt Lake to do so. It was good eatin' and fun company. After that we went back to her house for cake and ice cream. I was so happy to be able to see little Bohdee again. He remembered me and kept jumping up on my lap to give me cuddles and loves. It's nice to see he's adjusting to his new home and enjoying it. Alishia lives next door to my grandma, aunt and uncle. I went over to visit with my grandma for a little while. She pretty much has no clue who I am, or most people, anymore. It's very sad. She kept rambling on about things that didn't make sense at all. She would be in the middle of a story and change to another one. My aunt is going to put her in an assisted living home soon and I think that will be the best for her needs. She can't even remember long enough to get up and use the bathroom or eat. As sad as it is to say, at this point, it would be best for her to just pass away. The meds she's been on to help her dimentia are no longer working. I have to just keep telling myself, "The Lord will call her home when it's time."
Well, Happy Birthday Alishia! I hope your family is able to make it a special day for you, since you're a special person! Cherish the next three years because I am SO making a big to-do out of your 40th birthday!

My Man, Natey-pooh!

TAG! All about my man. (I stole this one from Carrie B. Thanks!)

1.What's your husband's name? Nathan Carl Armstrong
2.How long have you been married? 8 years, 8 1/2 months
3.How long did you date? 6 months and then 6 months engaged
4.Who said I love you first? I think it was me but his was much more romantic (in the Celestial room at the Bountiful Temple)
5.Who asked who out first? I can't remember (long story!)
6.Who kissed who first? Nate, he was pretty nervous! he he he
7.How old is he? 33
8.Who eats the sweets? I'm an all-the-time sweets fan, he has to be in the mood for 'em
9.Who sings best? me
10.Who's smarter? Book smarts, definitely him. Common sense smarts, me.
11.Who cooks dinner and does laundry? We share dinner responsibilities. I do the laundry.
12.Who pays the bills? That would be Nate, the accountant
13.Who drives? When we're in the car together he usually does.
14.Who wears the pants? It's about 50-50 (I hope he feels the same!)
15.Our favorite couple thing to do: We love to go to Desert Star Theater (We have season tickets, I highly recommend it to any couple!)
16.His favorite pastimes: He loves watching sports and playing sports, Xbox, Wii, playing with the kids, playing with me ; ), watching the Simpsons and collecting Simpsons stuff.
17.What I love most about him: He's very caring and kind-hearted. He thinks of the most romantic things to make me feel so loved. He always tells me he loves me in the morning and at night. He is the most amazing dad I've ever known--Brady and Elise know how much he loves and cherishes them. He's respectful and respected. I love that he doesn't give in to my whining and begging over petty things--it teaches me better budgeting habits. I love that he's managed to keep us out of debt, with the exception of the house (full tithing!). As I've said MANY times before, he's my best friend and I can talk to him about anything.

Alrighty then! So I tag whoever wants to do this in honor of their own hubby.

(Last one!) I'm Thankful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ....

Saturday, November 29th--There's not a day that goes by that I don't think about my testimony of Jesus Christ. Everyday I'm reminded of the reasons I even have a testimony to begin with. I was born and raised in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints but it took me a long time to build my testimony to what it is today. I went inactive for a short time and found empty joys in worldly things. It took a diligent, loving mother to bring me "back to the fold". She never gave up. She was always that way. My dad went inactive in his teenage years and never returned to church till I was 12 years old. My mom got 4 kids ready and to church all by herself for almost 20 years. I can't even imagine what that was like, I was young enough to be oblivious to it. She endured to the end and was rewarded with the ultimate gift, an strong, active husband who took her and her children to the temple to be sealed as an eternal family---all on my 15th birthday.
It's hard to say what moments have all added up to what my testimony has become. I'm sure it's many little ones and a few big ones. I know the gospel of Jesus Christ exists on the earth today. I know the Holy Ghost lives within those that have received him and choose to live by his promptings. I know families are forever as long as we all remain unified in our testimonies, devotion and love. I know our Father in Heaven only wants the very best for His children and just wants us to return back to Him. I know He gave us a living prophet to guide us in these chaotic latter-days.
There are enough people in this world that would try to persuade me otherwise but they don't understand or comprehend what it took/takes to build a testimony. It takes work, faith, trust and so many other things. It doesn't come easily but once you have it, it's hard to lose it. Nate and I take our children to church in order to continually "feed" and "refresh" our testimonies every week. While we need to work harder to be better at it, we have family prayer, family home evening, scripture reading and conversations pertaining to gospel teachings. Nate gives us priesthood blessings, even at a moments notice, if needed. Just spending time with my husband and my kids reminds me of my testimony and the promises made by Heavenly Father. We can be an eternal family, we're on our way! Life is great! Sometimes I forget how blessed I am and then the Holy Ghost quickly reminds me.

Christmas Craft Idea #1

Friday, November 28th--Some peeps asked what kind of craft ideas I have for Christmas presents this year. I'm going to share a few but others you'll have to ask me over the phone or email because I'm using them as family gifts (they're good ones!)

This first one is something we got from a neighbor the very first year we were married. I've always saved it because I love that they took time to do it and it's cute. It appears to be very inexpensive. It's a popsicle nativity and with it is a story called: "The Parable of the Popsicle". If you are interested in more details on how to do this Christmas craft, please let me know. (This is for you, Heather S.!)

Here's the story:

After eating a Popsicle on a hot day,

We may find the stick to be in our way.

So looking around we toss it aside,

Never knowing the parable it may secretly hide.

You see a long time ago far away,

Mary and Joseph needed a place to stay.

But innkeepers too busy to take them inside,

Just like the Popsicle brushed them aside.

Some didn't listen to the things Jesus spoke,

Not knowing the joy his words would invoke.

To some in the crowd his words were a guide,

But many just mocked him and brushed it aside.

Now in modern day we see it happen once more,

Some hear him knocking but don't answer the door.

Too busy to answer we keep him outside,

And just like the others we've tossed him aside.

So don't let this Christmas time go like the others,

Be kind to your family, your friends and your brothers.

Don't toss this parable away with the season,

Keep it around to remember the real Christmas reason.

You see the Popsicle stick will always outlast,

The treat on the outside that disappears so fast.

Just like the teachings of Jesus should too,

Not come and go like Christmases do.

I'm Thankful for Scents......

Friday, November 28th--I'm taking a break from decorating. I don't do Christmas decorating lightly, it's a big ordeal every year. I enjoy it a lot but it's pretty tiring. While I've been decorating I've had my awesome Christmas CD's playing and a candle on the candle warmer. I'm burning my absolute, most-favorite Christmas scent of all. It's called: Holiday Cobbler by Salt City. Sadly, and they must be out of their minds, they don't make this amazing scent anymore so I'm trying to squeeze every last fragrant bit of it out before I have to throw it away and pray they bring the scent back (I've begged and begged on their website! No luck--bah humbug!). For some reason, Holiday Cobbler, reminds me of Christmas as a child. I wonder if my mom baked something or had a similar candle she would burn, I don't remember but the scent sure brings back fond memories of Christmas-time at home. We always had a fresh Christmas tree so whenever I smell that ever-so-refreshing scent of pine, I think of how those fresh trees would fill the entire house with their scent. I loved it so much!
Scents seem to re-kindle memories, almost, on a daily basis for me. Some are good, some are bad. This summer we rented a camper and the bathroom in it did not have a very pleasant smell. To shower, I would use body wash, one of my favorites: Bath and Body Works, Midnight Pomegranate. Well, it's no longer a favorite, it just reminds me of that stinky camper bathroom!
When I went to visit my new niece, Danika, two weeks ago, she had that new-baby/hospital scent and I remembered that's how my newborns smelled.
I found a deoderant that, oddly, reminds me of fond Christmas scents too. Roses remind me of how fragrant my beautiful wedding bouquet was. Cinnamon reminds me of all the times I was nauseous, during my pregnancies. I would sniff a little and feel, somewhat, better. Flour reminds me of the times when my sisters and I would make pinatas out of papier mache. We'd use flour and water for the "glue". The smell of fresh rain reminds me of home, back in WA.
I had a teacher at UCMT that had lost her ability to smell. I often wondered how that would be to deal with. She said she missed being able to smell. I can only imagine and pray it never happens to me. In Disneyland/California Adventure, my most favorite ride is "Soarin' Over California". During the ride you can smell different scents based on where you're at in the ride. It is so cool! My sister-in-law, Wendy, and I have been on a quest to find scents similar to the ride. We've found a few through the Bath and Body Works line. (Ya know, as much as I promote that company, I should be getting some kind of payment for endorsement! I'll have to check into it!)
Anyhoo, I'm thankful for scents and the ability to smell. Please, Salt City, bring Holiday Cobbler back! PLEASE!!!!!!

Our Thanksgiving Was Great!

Thursday, November 27th--We had an excellent Thanksgiving! Nate and I enjoyed having a good chunk of his family over for a delicious Thanksgiving feast. Most of the family arrived between 2:00 and 3:00. We did a Wii bowling tournament---Elise kicked our butts in a humiliating way. Nate turned on Wii Fit and that became a huge interest (yes, it's THAT good!). Dustin made some fabulous garlic, parmesan & mozarella mashed taters. I think I cooked the best turkey I've ever done---there is something to be said about trying too hard, I didn't do that this time and it worked out incredibly well! Rosemary made some delicious pies: banana cream (so good!), pumpkin and cheesecake. Kip brought some tasty rolls, some from Great Harvest and some that were home-made. Jenny brought some wonderful fresh veggies.
After our bellies were full we sat around chatting, playing games and then we put on both "Robot Chicken", Star Wars 1 & 2. They are so hilarious! Everyone had a good laugh.

Fortunately, we all managed to stay healthy for this day. It was a huge relief since 2-week-old Danika was with us. Everyone enjoyed holding and cuddling with her. I think I even got a little smile out of her! She slept most of the time but then Crystal fed her and she was wide-awake, looking around. She responded to voices and people moving around. It was very sweet!

Dan wrote a most hilarious song about all the pets the family have had through the years. He wrote the song to the tune: "We Three Kings". He even sang it for us! I would post it but I don't have his permission at the moment.
Jenny was so nice to bring her newspaper with all the ads. We went through them and made a list of things we wanted. Just about everyone had plans to start early on Black Friday, Nate included. (I'm SOOOOO happy he's willing to get up so early!)

I enjoyed being able to talk to my parents and sister, on the phone. It seems everyone had a great Thanksgiving and I'm so thankful for that. What a great holiday! To be able to reflect on the many things we can all be thankful for and have a special day for it as well, it's just a wonderful thing!

I'm Thankful for Happy Places.....

Thursday, November 27th--HAPPY THANKSGIVING, by the way! There's a scene in "Dumb and Dumber" where Loyd Christmas (played by Jim Carrey) is getting beat up by a truck driver in a public bathroom stall. As he's being beaten to the ground, Loyd is saying, "Find a happy place..... Find a happy place....." The movie is so incredibly hilarious, in my opinion, but Loyd Christmas also makes a good point! Who would have ever thought I could extract a life lesson from a movie with a title that says it all?!?!
Usually our moments of "strife" aren't while getting pummeled by a truck driver in a bathroom stall. Most of the time, they're not even physical, instead, emotional like stress or frustration. But in our moments it's best to find that "happy place" to get you through. For me, it's either found in my imagination (I love planning out how my dream house looks inside), remembering fond memories, going for a drive, or just escaping to a quiet room for a moments peace.
I hope you have your "happy place"! I don't think there's enough people who have "happy places". It makes me sad and stressed.......gotta go to you-know-where!...................(10 minutes later) aaaaaahh, much better now!
Enjoy your turkey day! And if your hosting, like me, make sure you have a "happy place" to go! ha ha ha

I'm Thankful for Modern Conveniences.....

Wednesday, November 26th--Today is a chaotic day! We're hosting the family Thanksgiving dinner tomorrow and I'm really excited about that. However, the day before, as you might know, is the day we scrub, scour, wash and make the house sparkling clean for our guests. So what do I do? I agree to work and promise the kids I'll take them to see "Bolt", all the while I'm still upset over having to take my dog to my sisters last night (he's doing fine, by the way...phew!). So, today, I am thankful for modern conveniences to help me get through the day!

Here's the list of my random favorites:

*Swiffer mop
*Dirt Devil Broom Vac
*Clorox/Costco cleaning wipes
*Scentsy (I'm burning Snowberry)
*Flat Top Stove
*Detangle Spray (for Elise's bazillion tangles!)
*Gas-powered fireplaces
*Insulated mugs for my Holiday/Maverick pop refills
*Bagelfuls
*Pre-packaged, single serving, apple slices, Tillamook cheese, and carrot sticks
*Smoothie blender
*Spray gel
*DVR (Tivo)
*Bath & Body Works
*Purel
*Wii Fit
*Air Conditioning
*Ice Makers that make the "good ice"
*Cell Phones
*Internet Shopping
*3M hooks with adhesive strips
*On-line banking/bill pay
*Portable DVD players (we don't go on any road trips without 'em!)

I'm sure there are more but those come to mind for now. Modern conveniences are the best!

I'm Thankful for Diabetes.......

Tuesday, November 25th--Maybe some of you think it's weird to be thankful for such a horrible disease but I'm discovering I am thankful for it and for the lessons I've learned thus far.

I've learned:

*Our Father in Heaven knows our strengths and what we are able to handle, even though we can be absolutely clueless of them most of the time.

*As parents, our childrens lives (physically, spiritually and emotionally) are truly in our hands.

*We don't always understand why we're given the cards we're dealt but our level of faith and courage determines the outcome.

*patience, Patience, PATIENCE!!!!

*There is a difference between a 3-year-old tantrum and low/high blood sugar--it just takes a LONG time and many "experiences" to figure it out.

*A cure is on the way but in the mean time we make the best of our situation.

*Rather than make the disease a huge part of what Brady's life is, we MUST make it a small part and focus on his amazing talents and abilities instead.

*There will be good days and bad, regardless of the choices we make and regardless of how hard we try.

*There will be moments of breakdown and upset and that's okay.

*We can't do it alone. We lean on each other and on the Lord.

*There is support all around us if we take advantage of it instead of being prideful.

*Educating ourselves and keeping up with new developments is a must!

*There will be parents who send their coughing, vomitting, runny-nosed, feverish children to pre-school and Nursery/Primary. I can be angry over that or just understand that not everyone has to take their child to the ER over a little flu, so they probably don't comprehend our situation.

*Listening to our prophets counsel (paying tithing, no debt, savings and investments) has made it so this is not a financial hardship, just something to add to the budget.

*Trials can make or break family unity.

*Children can amaze us with what their able to endure.

I could go on and on but I think you get the jist. Life lessons, indeed........with more to come!

100 Things

100 Facts- some are about me. Copy the list and highlight (mine are red) the ones that are true about you.
1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii (lived there)
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity (tithing when we were broke)
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Climbed a mountain (Green Mountain--it's small but I'll count it!)
9. Held a Praying Mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning (Stupid Golden Corral, and right before Thanksgiving, jerks!)
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David (Does the replica at Ceasars Palace count? Sure, I'll count it! he he!)
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class (Judo)
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London (I've seen the one in Arlington Cemetary, VA)
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle (Adam, you psycho!)
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible (Does Seminary count? Sure!)
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Talked your way out of a ticket

I'm Thankful for My Little Bohdee.....

Monday, November 24th--I love our little dog, Bohdee. He's been with us for almost 3 months now. He's about 6 months old. He lets me hold him like a little newborn and he falls asleep. It's so sweet! He's become my little buddy. Someone once told me when a dog gets to know you and trust you his/her love becomes unconditional. I believe that. I have approached him with respect and kindness and he's given me the same, in return.

Sadly, the same is not so for Brady. Tomorrow, with heavy heart, I'm taking Bohdee to live with my sister, Alishia, in Salt Lake. Brady is having a hard time adjusting to Bohdee. We seem to think he doesn't quite understand that Bohdee is a living animal, not a toy. He is a little too rough with Bohdee and we fear Bohdee might get hurt or even worse. I can't bear the thought of that or the thought of Brady and Elise dealing with such a devistation. As parents, Nate and I have to do what's best for Brady and Bohdee, even though it hurts like crazy not to have my little buddy around anymore. As the kids are getting older and more independant, they don't seem to want to cuddle and just be held anymore. I miss that and had found it again in our little puppy.

I know Bohdee will be loved very much by my sister and her family. I pray he'll become friends with their little Shih-Tzu, Asia. I hope he'll adjust quite easily and even, as much as it hurts to say (tearing up), forget the close relationship he and I built together. We'll get to see him from time to time but it won't be the same.

Sometimes life isn't fair. Sometimes, as parents, we make sacrifices that effect our own personal joys. But, I knew that even before I had children and it was something I accepted with my whole heart. My childrens happiness and well-being are more important than anything. Someday, Brady will understand the difference between a real animal and a fake one and then we can consider getting another puppy. If I'm lucky, which I doubt I will be, my sister will let us have Bohdee back. He's laying right next to me, fast asleep, and I'm already missing him.......

A Full Week of Thankfuls......

Sunday, November 23rd--I often express the things I'm thankful for but this week I'm going to be a little more specific, considering the Thanksgiving holiday coming up. Last week I wrote a post about my wonderful hubby, Nate. I am incredibly thankful for my kids, Elise and Brady. I think 90% of my blog posts are about them so I it's pretty obvious how thankful I am for them, even in those not-so-great moments. I love my family with all my heart, they are everything to me.
I sang in our ward choir today. We sang "For the Beauty of the Earth". I love this song. Music is amazing to me. It can make you laugh and be so touching as to bring tears as well. My mother introduced the importance of music into our family from the very beginning. Her parents did the same for their family. She played her records and 8-tracks and we'd all sing along. We knew the likes of Barry Manilow, Karen Carpenter, Bread, musicals galore, and all the hot 60's bands, by heart. My mom loves all the Rogers and Hammerstein musicals and we kids do too. Our family favorite is "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" ("South Pacific" is a close second!). We know all the songs and parts and there is rare a time that a song or line from that movie doesn't come up when we're together or chatting on the phone. I think I can thank my grandpa for a love of this movie, and music, as well. All of us sing and we enjoy it. My mom and my siblings have been a little more confident in their abilities than I. Those who can hear me in the shower are in for a real treat! ha ha ha I've enjoyed, and will continue to enjoy, teaching my kids the wonder and importance of music. They both sing and have beautiful voices. I like to make up little songs for them and eventually they begin to sing them too. They also make up their own funny little songs. I love it!
I love all kinds of music, for the most part. I'm thankful for this love and I'm thankful music exists in all its various forms.

Are You Ready?

Friday, November 21st--I'm ready for Christmas, how about you? Yes, I know Thanksgiving is still coming up but I'm just ready! Weather permitting, we're putting up Christmas lights tomorrow. This year I'm missing the Northwest quite a bit so we may go out and get a real tree (gosh, I love that smell!). I bought some new holiday Scentsy scents: Snowberry and Winter Wonderland(?). They're great! I've been listening to holiday music, on the radio, since November 1st and am only tired of "Feliz Navidad" (blech!). Our Christmas shopping is coming along. I bought some candy cane, white chocolate Hershey Kisses (soooooo yummy!). What can I say, I've got the Christmas spirit! ...........and it feels wonderful!
I feel a lot of gratitude. Nate and I are very blessed and we know Heavenly Father watches over our family. Our Bishop challenged all the members of the ward to be frugal this Christmas (stay out of debt when considering Christmas presents). What that means for Nate and I, we're not sure yet, but it's something we've thought a lot about. I'm thinking of inexpensive craft ideas to do this year, I have a few but am open to suggestions as well.
Seasons Greetings and Happy Holidays!

My Cousin, Ashlee, the AMAZING Artist!

Wednesday, November 19th--I hope my cousin, Ashlee, doesn't mind. I'm going to give her a little plug. She is a fantastic artist. I'm not sure which side she inherited her talent from (not from the Blackburn side!). I asked her to do some sketches of my kids for Christmas. She chose the photos and then turned Elise into a fairy (her specialty) and Brady into an angel. I LOVE how they turned out! She has a very special gift. I'm jealous. If anyone is interested in her doing some sketches, she lives in Lehi, UT (nearby my house), and she is very affordable. Take a look! First is the photo she chose to work with and then the finished product. I have to re-scan the art in order to be able to click on it and see the detail but you can see pretty well as it is. Amazing! Love ya, Ashlee!

I Feel SOOO Naked!

Wednesday, November 19th--Eewwww! It's bad enough I have to look at myself naked, don't you be picturing me in your mind, you sicko! ha ha ha
Clear your mind and offer me a little sympathy at this difficult time........yes, so difficult (crying a little, need a minute......). I, uh, accidentally, left my cell phone in my jeans today and threw the jeans in the wash with the rest of my clothes. My cell phone got washed and is no longer functioning. (a few more tears coming..........) The dearly departed cell phone was the coolest! It had so much life left to it, I'd only had it for a year. It's red, takes pics, had awesome songs I downloaded as ringtones, the list goes on and on....... I've had various cell phones for the last 12 years and this has never happened--none of them have broken due to stupid mistakes. I just pray all the phone numbers, photos, downloads, etc. are retrievable.
So yes, as crazy as it sounds, I felt "naked" as I was running errands this afternoon and evening without my cell phone. I guess I'll be making a trip to AT&T Wireless tomorrow. Cripes!

Picky-Pots!

Wednesday, November 19th--Okay, so last night, for dinner, it was a pathetic sight. My kids have decided they are going to be picky eaters---Brady not nearly as bad as Elise, in fact he's getting better. Granted, both Nate and I are picky eaters (me, of course, liking all the bad foods for me and hating most of the good ones). My pickiness is because I've tried things and just don't like them.
When Elise was a toddler we fed her everything we ate and she loved it all. I was so excited at the thought that my child would probably not be picky. How wrong I was! Over and over again, she would like something one day and refuse to try it the next. Over time I just lost patience and stopped offering or forcing her to try it. Brady has always been a good eater (obviously!) but he seems to follow Elise's lead on many things so he's been trying to be more picky but we've discovered he can be "bribbed" with things such as Xbox or Matchbox cars, etc. (not the most effective way but it works for now). Well I'm at a point that I'm just so sick of making two to three meals for dinner. I know a lot of it is my fault, I should have put my foot down a long time ago.
Last night I made spaghetti. The very word puts Elise into this tantrum-throwing monster so I gave it a new name. She likes pasta, "pizza" sauce, melted cheese and sausage so I told her it's a new dish called "pizza pasta". She was quite skeptical, which made Brady skeptical. I told them both they could earn some time on the Wii if they would just take a few bites. Brady did right away and decided he liked it so he finished his plate. WOOHOO! Elise, on the other hand, holy moly, what a drama queen! I told her she needed to eat two big bites and then she could be done. She held that fork with the first bite for over an hour, making up excuse after excuse "I need a drink", "I have to go potty", "My head itches", "Brady won't stop talking to me", "Bohdee keeps licking my feet", etc., etc. Finally, Nate and I had enough. Nate picked her up and was taking her to her room when she promised she would take a bite. She sat there again for another 15 minutes. It was only when we turned on the Wii to play a game of family bowling did she realize we meant business. She couldn't stand to be left out! She took a bite and rather than gagging she went........."mmmm, this is good!" An hour and a half later, tantrums galore, only to find out if she had just tasted it in the first place she would have loved it all along. OH the humanity!

A Visit to Danika at Home

Saturday, November 15th--After leaving "Disney on Ice" we headed over to Dustin and Crystal's house so Nate and Brady could see baby Danika. They just got home from the hospital this afternoon. Brady was feeling much better today, definitely making up for the energy he had no desire to exert yesterday. We asked if it was okay to bring him over and they said it would be fine, just to keep him away from Danika's face. We lucked out, he didn't really want to be around the baby, instead he ran laps around their kitchen! Silly boy! Crystal looked pretty tired--Danika's a hungry little girl! She wants to nurse a little more than expected. She slept the whole time we were there. She looks like a very, sweet little angel! My heart just melted when Nate was holding her. He's so wonderful with babies, he really enjoys cuddling and holding the little ones. Hopefully, he'll have one of his own, again, in the next year. Elise was a little on the grumpy side so she didn't want to hold Danika. Between Energy Solutions Center and the Trax station she lost her most favorite blanket, one she has had for almost 4 years. It was very upsetting to her so we promised to stop at Target or Walmart after we left Dustin and Crystal's house to get her a new one. She picked a soft, pink "blankie" and all is well with the world again!

While holding Danika we talked about her name and how they came up with it. Danika, or Danni (sp?) as she'll be known, is named after my father-in-law, Dan. I sure both of them will agree what an honor it is to share their name with each other. Dan is an incredible man and deserves to have this beautiful little girl named after him. I have no doubt she'll live up to the honor! Danni is the 9th grandchild born into the Dan & Rosemary Armstrong family. They now have 5 grand-sons and 4 grand-daughters.

Here's some pics of Nate holding Danni---so sweet! I got the tear!:

Disney On Ice

Saturday, November 15th--In case you didn't figure it out already, when we can't make it to Disneyland we get our "fix" by attending "Disney On Ice" every year. This is a great show and we love going. This time the theme is "100 Years of Magic". How that can be, I don't know since Mickey Mouse wasn't created till the 1920's--unless the celebration is Walt Disney's 100th birthday (not sure when he was born). Anyhoo, we decided this was one of the best ones yet--aside from the "Disney Princess on Ice" that Elise and I attended earlier this year. Nate got us great seats on the 10th row, front and center. We really love seeing the kids react to everything. They jump up and down when their favorite characters come out. They love seeing the fireworks. Every time I go I wonder if either one of the kids would be interested in taking ice skating lessons. One of these days I should look into it, see if there are any around and how much.
If you've never attended one of these, and you're a Disney fan, I HIGHLY recommend you go and take your family or friends. We usually do a matinee showing and get inexpensive seats. Here's some pics (you can click on them to get more detail):

I Got Tagged

Friday, November 14th--This is a good one Kerri! An important one and I tag EVERYONE that reads it!

FIVE THINGS THAT MAKE ME HAPPY...
1. My husband (refer to 3 posts ago!) & children
2. My testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ
3. (I'm with Kerri on this one) A nice, cold fountain drink with the "good ice" 60% regular Coke and 40% caffeine-free Diet Coke (I'm trying to not drink regular so much so I'm weening myself!)
4. A TIE: A road trip to a great destination/vacation & a rare shopping spree
5. Holidays--decorating, kids reactions, family, etc.

The Newest Armstrong

Friday, November 14th--Introducing, Danika Leigh Armstrong. She was born yesterday to Crystal and Dustin Armstrong. She's healthy and beautiful, very much alert and quite the little wiggle worm (Crystal, I can't even bear the thought that she was THAT wiggly in your womb!). Welcome to this crazy family, Danika! You can try and calm us down but it won't work so just jump on in to our craziness when you're ready! And to be a part of this family, you must LOVE Disneyland so we'll get you obsessed in no time! ha ha ha Love you, Danika!

Elise and I visited the U of U hospital tonight to meet Danika. Nate stayed at home with Brady, he seems to have some kind of stomach flu (Please no ER visits! PLEASE!). Elise loved holding her new little cousin and looks forward to the time she can play with her and make her laugh and everything else. I enjoyed holding Danika too, although she seemed to just want to eat and I couldn't help in that department so back to mom she went. Dustin and Crystal are so very happy and I'm happy for them. Congratulations!

Mom & Dad, A Message From Baby Claire

Friday, November 14th--"Hi, Audra's parents. This is baby Claire Pease. It makes me very sad you're not coming for Christmas! VERY SAD!!!!"

I'm Thankful....

Thursday, November 13th--It is only two weeks till Thanksgiving. I'm excited to be able to be with family and enjoy a wonderful feast of food while visiting and mingling.
I've been thinking quite a bit about things I'm thankful for. The list stretches for miles and miles but the things I'm most thankful for, I hope, are very obvious. First, and foremost, my husband, Nathan. I have chosen to spend eternity with him and he has chosen me. Having that freedom to choose is precious. I know, in other cultures and religions, that is not always the case. Our marriage continues to evolve and change as we learn more and more about each other. I think that is healthy for a marriage and I'm thankful it exists in ours. He and I both tolerate plenty from the other but our love for each other remains strong. He provides for our family and works very hard to do so. Once again, his company is going through a large round of lay-offs and he's been informed his job is safe again. I know his faithfulness in paying a full tithe is the reason for this great blessing.
I am incredibly blessed he has such an immense love for our children. He plays with them, he puts them to bed with stories and prayers, he shows them love and tells them of his love for them--I could go on and on.
There's plenty more I could say about Nate but the bottom line is: I'm thankful for him and for all that he is and contributes to my blessed life. I love you with all of my heart forever and always.
More to come on things that I'm thankful for!

PLEASE! Help Support My Crazy Cause!

Sunday, November 9th--Okay peeps, I need your help......as many of you as possible! Let me tell you a little story first. A few months ago I was thinking about Christmas and where we would be for our favorite holiday. I called my folks to see if they would come down here for Christmas or if we should talk about going up there to Washington. Much to my excitement and relief, they said they were planning on coming down and my sister, Amanda, and her family would come as well. YIIPPEEEEE, the whole family down here, in Utah, for Christmas. It would be a first in many years. This is how my children reacted:

I felt the same and so did my other sister, Alishia, and her family, that lives in Salt Lake. Well, certain circumstances made my parents change their minds, recently. So they decided they would stay in Washington and my sister, Amanda, and her family would be in Boise, ID, instead. This is how my children reacted:

I felt the same and so did my other sister, Alishia and her family. So now I ask for anyone's help that is willing to give it, not financially. I REALLY, REALLY want my parents to still come for Christmas and so does my sister, Alishia. We're willing to help with plane tickets and all. So I would like for any of you to take photos of yourselves or your kids BEGGING my parents (Cal & Colleen Blackburn) to come see their kids and grandkids, in Utah, for Christmas. Send them to my email address: auddah@msn.com I will post them on my blog for my parents to see just how much this means to all of us. Your support and help for my crazy cause is so very appreciative! Here's the start:

**Dad, I know you would only be able to come for a few days and may not even be able to fly in till Christmas morning but that's okay with ALL of us. We want you and mom here, the grandkids are so sad and want more than any presents, for you both to be here for Christmas. Please consider it! We'll make your visit comfy and inexpensive! Love you both!

PLEASE COME TO UTAH FOR CHRISTMAS!!!!

ABC Tag

Thanks Lindsay!

A- Attached or Single? Attached fo-evah!
B- Best Friend? Nate
C- Cake or Pie? Cake--yellow cake with fudge frosting......mmm
D- Day of Choice? Saturday
E- Essential Item? spray gel and lotion (preferably from Bath and Body Works)
F- Favorite Color? Blue, Purple, Red (but not together!)
G- Gummy Bears or Gummy Worms? Wormies!
H- Hometown? Bremerton, WA
I- Favorite Indulgence? Coca Cola--a must have, in my mug--gotta be a fountain drink with the "good ice"
J- January or July? At first I thought of January but then Lindsay depressed me by reminding me of the gross inversion so I guess July will do even though I hate the heat.
K- Kids? 2 goofballs, 1 girl, 1 boy
L- Life isn't complete without? My family
M- Movie favorite? No #1 favorite. I like a good chick flick, most Rogers and Hammerstein's musicals, and raunchy comedies
N- Number of Brothers and Sisters? 1 brother, Adam and 2 sisters, Alishia and Amanda
O- Oranges or Apples? I'm from Washington, that's a no-brainer--and my preference is Red Delicious
P- Phobias or Fears? MANY FEARS--mostly involving anything happening to my kids. I'm paranoid!
Q- Quote? "It is what it is." the philosophy of Tao
R- Reason to Smile? My kids and their various goofy moments and one-liners.
S- Season of Choice? Fall/Autumn--I'm in heaven right now, plus I'm a Fall baby
T- Tag a few friends: Amanda Thomsen, LaDonna Smith, Heather Doney and whoever else
U- Unknown Fact About Me? Wow, hmmm, I LOVE fashion but don't have the figure for the things I like so I wear not-so-fashionable things instead, pathetic, I know. One day, my friends, one day!
V- Vegetable? Taters and carrots
W- Worst Habit? My Coca Cola
X- X-ray or ultrasound? Ultrasound
Y- Your Favorite Food? Italian, pasta is my frenemy
Z- Zodiac Sign? Virgo

I Had WAY Too Much Fun!

Monday, November 3--So I had this website recommended to me. It's called: http://www.yearbookyourself.com/ I took Elise and Brady's school photos and just had a blast fitting their faces to different heads from different eras. Here's a few of them. I laughed so hard!
Picture #1: Elise, circa early 1970's. Picture #2: Elise, circa mid-1990's. Picture #3, Brady circa 1960's. Picture #4, Brady circa 1960's.

Brady's School Pics

October, 2008--We got Brady's individual school and class pics back. What a handsome little man, he is! His class pic is worth a good laugh--not only is he, at least, a head and a 1/2 taller than all the kids but, if you look closely, his fly is down. Crazy! In situations like these all I can say is: "That's my boy!" ; ) **And yes, he's standing next to his "love interest", Rylie. She's a cutie, Brady, excellent choice!