because.

2012-01-24T13:17:00.001-08:00

2012-01-20T16:09:00.000-08:00

Dear Blythe,

There are moments that I wish I could capture and keep forever, so I could look back on them when you're a teenager and hate me. :)
For example, this morning after you put your clothes on you did this little jig that was so dang cute I couldn't help but tear up a little.
What did I do to deserve you?
Blythe you have an amazing ability to see the good in everything. You are always so positive, happy and loving. You literally brighten a room every time you walk into it.
Never ever forget how much you are loved.

Love,
Mommy

2012-01-19T12:12:00.000-08:00

guess what?

I suck at returning phone calls in a timely fashion.
I rarely listen to voicemails.
I'm messy.
I'm the least organized person you will ever meet.
I drink way too much soda.
I'm a procrastinator.
I spend way too much time on Facebook and Pinterest.
I don't complete 80% of projects that I begin.
I talk very loud when I get excited, and very fast all the other times.
I talk a lot.
I am not a good housekeeper.
I suck at keeping secrets.
I'm not very good with my finances.
I get very jealous, very quickly.
I forget people's names.
I wear yoga pants almost every day.
I only rarely brush my teeth more than once a day.
And my socks never match...that's when I'm wearing them.

But guess what else?

I'm kind.
I'm caring.
I try to remember birthdays.
I like to believe that there are good people in our government.
I'm proud to live in this country.
I have a close personal relationship with God that is no body's business but mine.
I've seen a lot of the world and pride myself on my ability to adapt to new ideas of culture.
I like potato chips in my sandwich.
I'm allergic to mayonaise.
I'm afraid of spiders and hate touching cotton swabs.
I think I'm a good listener.
I love animals.
I'm pretty funny.
I love my siblings and parents fiercely, with my whole heart.
I love to tell stories and listen to other tell theirs.
I cherish my best friends.
I'm not that great and cooking, but I sure try hard to learn.
I am a good Mom.
I pride myself on the decisions I've made for both my children.
I try and keep my house in good order the best I can.

So...

2012-01-17T18:49:00.000-08:00

Whenever I'm feeling defeated, bummed, stressed, or just down right blue, I have a favorite book that I like to open up and browse through.

hey that rhymed.

"Prudent Advice"

by: Jaime Morrison Curtis

It's simply bits and pieces of advice for her daughter.

ya, she wrote it just for her baby girl.

And it's brilliant.

some of my favorites include:

#40 "Try to use people's names when you address them, even if you are fairly certain you are never going to see them again."

#260 "Sometimes you just have to cry it out. A good crying jag can be cathartic. It's a girl thing. Just don't do it at work."

#205 "If you rely on popular culture definitions of love, you will in a state of constant disappointment.

#68 "Word is Bond"

#331 "Spend as much time outdoors as you possibly can."

#402 "In Monopoly always buy railroads; never buy utilities.

Oh I could go on and on, but trust me friends, she knows her stuff.

2012-01-15T20:18:00.000-08:00

One of my goals this year is to get a family scrapbook of last year together.
I have so many pictures and it's been easy to get overwhelmed, so I decided to make it easy on myself.
Did that sentence make sense?

Anywho.

So I've been taking my favorite pics from each month and putting them into a collage that I'll have printed and then I'll put in an album.

It will be lovely.

Here's what I have so far:

please keep this sweet family in your thoughts and prayers.

2012-01-12T21:09:00.000-08:00

Friends, I need some advice...

On a random afternoon in October the annual Toys R Us Christmas Catalog showed up in the mail and Blythe got her hands on it. She looked at every page very carefully when she came across this beauty:

Immediately she showed it to me and said that's what she wanted Santa to bring her. She talked about it almost everyday after that. Tore the page out of the catalog and taped it to her dresser. Told Santa, on all three visits, that's what she wanted. We scrimped and saved and were luckily able to put it under the tree.

So Christmas comes, Blythe fly's down the stairs, THRILLED, to see it there. We had to talk her into opening up her other presents because she was glued to it. And she played with it everyday for hours for the following week.

Well, these past few weeks I've noticed that she hasn't gone near it. So I asked her, "Blythe, do you still like your dollhouse?" To which she replied "no". I told her that it was such a nice dollhouse and that she should be grateful for it because there are little girls who have no toys.

"Then give it to them."

I was stunned. Seriously. And kinda hurt. But I decided to let it go and dropped it for about a week.

Then today while we were picking up her room I asked her if she wanted to play with her dollhouse and she said, "I don't want it anymore, give it to the little girl who doesn't have any toys."

Ok....so where do I go from here?

Do I put it away for awhile then bring it out again cuz maybe it's gotten old?

Do we actually take it to a shelter or something?

I'm so concerned about this because I want her to learn to be grateful for the things that she has.

Any suggestions??

i knew i had a superpower...

2012-01-10T21:33:00.003-08:00

2012-01-03T16:13:00.000-08:00

2011

2011-12-31T12:53:00.000-08:00

*Moved

*New Jobs

*School

*Weight Loss

*Weight Gain

*Weight Steady

*The Walking Dead

*New Friends

*Broken Car

*Almost Lost Life

*Lost Job

*Marriage Tried

*Preschool

*Ballet

*Terrible Three's

*Vacation

*Windstorm

*Loss

*Gratitude

Ten Things

2011-12-28T22:29:00.000-08:00

1. Christmas Rocked.
2. I cooked my first turkey, and will tell y'all about it soon.
3. My camera is broken.
4. The dog needs a bath.
5. Ma Nuh Ma Nuh.
6. 2012 is going to be better.
7. 2011 is my last fat year.
8. I really need to go to the dentist.
9. I think I may be addicted to Mt.Dew.
10. Does anyone read this anymore?

2011-12-22T20:01:00.000-08:00

I'm going to stop titling my posts.

At least for a little bit.

Remember when I came up with that whole

blog schedule I was going to follow?

Ya that worked.

For like a day.

*****

Dear Santa,

*****

Remember when tv shows had normal seasons?

From September to May.

None of this "Mid-Season Finale" junk.

And no taking five weeks off for Christmas.

*****

I must say that I'm really enjoying the stories I'm hearing on the news of people's Christmas goodness.

Random people paying off layaway accounts.

Sub for Santa.

Homeless Shelter Donations.

Wow, people are so good.

God is so good.

*****

Jaxson sleeps on his back.

Its weird.

As is he.

Thus the basis of his appeal.

*****

Stop Looking Around!

2011-12-19T17:42:00.000-08:00

(image)

This is something I need to tattoo on the back of my hands.

Ok so not really, but I sure wish I would remember it all the time.

Comparing myself to others is something I really struggle with. I have a tendency to look at other's success, or possessions, or happiness, and loose sight of the things that I am truly blessed with.

And I loose faith in myself.

Funny the things you can accomplish when you quit looking around, and start looking forward.

Right?

Three Things to Discuss.

2011-12-17T23:19:00.000-08:00

Five Years:

On Friday Jameson and I celebrated five years o' matrimony.

I'm not gonna lie, we've had our ups and downs.

But I know without doubt, that I'm married to my best friend.

This Lady's Birthday:
It's today.

And if I had the means I would throw her the biggest party in the world.

There would be dancing hippos and tutus involved.

And a cake.

Of the gluten free persuasion.

She's been a rock for me this past year.

So very grateful for her.

Happy Birthday!!

And I wish I knew where my Goonies shirt was.

This Hot Chocolate Bar:

It was at a Pampered Chef party I worked on Thursday.

Set up by the uber talented Dru!

Holy moly friends, it was amazing.

The End.

This Weekend.

2011-12-12T15:49:00.001-08:00

Twas Delightful.

2011-12-09T14:05:00.000-08:00

(Jan.2011)

Dear Blythe,

Do you know how simply in love with you I am?

You are growing up so fast and somedays I wish I could just push a button and freeze time so you would stay like this forever.

Right now you are into everything that comes with being a girl.

You love to dance, sing, dress up, and play princess and house.

Every so often you will go into the bathroom and you're in there for a long time brushing your hair, and pretending to put on mommy's makeup.

You are so smart. You pick out your outfits and dress yourself every morning.

You are learning new things constantly! Yesterday you told me and Dad that we needed to make sure that we are recycling our water bottles.

Last week you made sure that I knew that bears sleep all during the winter so I shouldn't wake them up.

Blythe, you fill my life with so much joy. I'm so grateful for you. Thank you for being so patient with Mommy.

Love you so so much sweet girl.

Love,

Mommy

Let's Talk About Jaxson.

2011-12-01T11:04:00.000-08:00

Have you met Jaxson?

He's the newest member of our family.

And friends, let me tell you....greatest dog ever.

Jaxson Loves:

*snuggling

*eating ice

*playing catch

*snuggling

*looking out the window and growling at anything that moves

*drinking the water when I'm in the tub (i know, kinda gross)

*snuggling

Jaxson Dislikes:

*loud noises

*strangers

*having his sweater taken off

*arguing

*inflatable seahorses

He's sort of cured my baby hunger.

And I'm super grateful for him.

And he's got the eyebrows of a super hero.

Today.

2011-11-28T13:12:00.001-08:00

Mondays In California

2011-11-21T18:40:00.000-08:00

1. Trader Joe's.
2. knitting
3. cold pizza
4. Salvation Army
5. dog noses
6.

7. sleeping bags
8. handmade dolls
9. candy coated licorice
10. Mama

Look At What I'm Up To....

2011-11-18T16:35:00.000-08:00

So guess what?

About a month ago my new, totally awesome, friend invited me to go to a Pampered Chef party with her. It was Halloween themed and so much fun! I really liked the consultant and all of the products that she introduced. At the end of the show she talked about her experience being a consultant and how much she had benefited from the experience.

Seriously folks, it was like lightening had hit me in the form of a Pampered Chef consultant.

I knew that this was for me. And that I could be awesome at it.

So, I took a leap, and I'm now a Pampered Chef consultant.

You should host a party....you can earn free stuff....eat yummo food...have fun with your friends...oh and earn free stuff....you can also earn free stuff....there will be stuff that's free.

Free.

Think about it.

Could be fun.

free.

Gulp.

2011-11-10T22:10:00.000-08:00

Being brave is hard.

For the most part I consider myself to be a pretty confident, outgoing person.

But let me tell ya, I'm actually kind of a wimp.

I've recently begun a new business venture that I'll share later on this weekend, and it's freaking me out!

But I'm taking deep breaths, keeping my eye on the goal and remembering what's important.

I can do this.

ya.

I can.

Right?

Halloweenie!

2011-11-01T21:12:00.000-07:00

People, Halloween is my Christmas.

I love it.

I told Blythe that we could go

anywhere she wanted for lunch, her response:

"I want to go to the pizza lunch at the tall buildings."

Translation....California Pizza Kitchen at The Gateway.

Off we went.

Funny Faces were made.

Mouths were stuffed.

Ice Cream was had.

After rest time, which was a movie and popcorn

special for Halloween, we were off to Trick Or Treat!

Blythe wanted to be Olivia the pig this year.

"But Olivia when she's at ballet class, not at school Mom."

Well okay then!

We first hit up the Trunk Or Treat at the church, then around our neighborhood a little.

Blythe marched right up to each door all alone and rang the bell and shouted

"Trick Or Treat" at the top of her lungs.

I love this girl.

And this holiday.

Double Whammy.

This Is Halloween, Halloween, Halloween! 2011

2011-10-29T11:33:00.001-07:00

Thought I'd take ya on a little tour of my front yard...enjoy :)

It's Just Another Manic Monday.

2011-10-17T20:10:00.000-07:00

Today we stayed home from school because Blythe has a little cold.

A little cold that I don't want to turn into a big cold.

So she watched movies and ate more fruit snacks that she probably should have.

But sometimes, we just need more fruit snacks.

This morning I woke up and felt strongly that I needed to preform a random act of kindness today. So I did. And friends, it felt SO SO good. Seriously, who needs drugs when there is service?!?! (I'm not doing drugs, it was an analogy.)

Look at Blythe a year ago:

Where did my baby go?

A lot of my friends are pregnant, along with some women in my ward. It's hard not to be super jealous and want to distance myself. I'm aching for another little one. But I know that it will happen somehow when the time is right. And I'm focusing all my energy on being the best Mama I can to my little princess.

I love this weather.

That's all.

A-Z Just For Fun

2011-10-16T19:51:00.000-07:00

A. Age: (gulp) 29

B. Bed size: KING!

C. Chore that you hate: Dishes

D. Dogs: Josie the wonder poodle!!

E. Essential start to your day: Kisses from Blythe

F. Favourite color: purple

G. Gold or Silver: Gold!

H. Height: 5'4"

I. Instruments you play: piano, violin, guitar, kazoo

J. Job title: Domestic Goddess

K. Kids: Miss Vivian age 6 & Blythe age 3

L. Live: Utah

M. Mother's name: Janet & Nancy

N. Nicknames: Mills, Millsner & Missi

O. Overnight hospital stays: giving birth to my babies, jaw surgery, hysterectomy, appendix out and really bad infection

P. Pet peeve: bad drivers, someone reading over my shoulder, loud sneezes

Q. Quote from a movie: "Protect your Carnal Treasure!!"-Win A Date With Tad Hamilton

R. Right or left handed: Right

S. Siblings: 1 Sister Nicole, 1 Brother Scott

T. Time you wake up: between 8 and 9

U. Underwear: whatever is comfy

V. Vegetable you hate: radishes

W. What makes you run late: traffic

X. X-Rays you've had: head,stomach and teeth, chest, feet, hands, face, my entire bod.

Y. Yummy food that you make: Meatloaf, Beef Stew, Tacos.

Z. Zoo animal: Hippo!

Simply Lovely.

2011-10-13T21:16:00.000-07:00

Jameson was lucky enough to have

an unexpected day off so we

decided to take a drive up the

canyon and catch the last of

the fall colors before the snow comes.

As we left the valley and began

the drive up I couldn't help but

be grateful for this gorgeous state I live in.

And as cheesy as it may sound the song, "For The Beauty Of The Earth" came into my head.

For the beauty of the earth,

For the beauty of the skies,
For the love which from our birth
Over and around us lies,
Lord of all, to thee we raise
This our grateful hymn of praise.

For the beauty of each hour
Of the day and of the night,
Hill and vale, and tree and flower,
Sun and moon and stars of light,
Lord of all, to thee we raise
This our grateful hymn of praise.

For the joy of human love,
Brother, sister, parent, child,
Friends on earth, and friends above,
Pleasures pure and undefiled,
Lord of all, to thee we raise
This our grateful hymn of praise.

For each perfect gift of thine,
To our race so freely given,
Graces human and divine,
Flowers of earth and buds of heaven,
Lord of all, to thee we raise
This our grateful hymn of praise.

For thy Church which evermore
Lifteth holy hands above,
Offering up on every shore
Her pure sacrifice of love,
Lord of all, to thee we raise
This our grateful hymn of praise.

God is so good.

Fall.

2011-10-07T23:53:00.000-07:00

Changing Colors.

Extra Blanket At Night.

Sweaters.

Halloween Decorations.

Soup.

Baking.

Candy Corn.

Campfires.

Pumpkin Patch.

Pumpkin Pie.

Pumpkin Cookies.

Pumpkin Milkshakes.

Pumpkin Carving.

Pumpkin EVERYTHING.

Starbucks Carmel Apple Cider.

Raking Leaves.

Turning On The Furnace.

Chilly Evening Walks.

Thunderstorms.

Scary Movies.

Corn Maze.

I. Love. Fall.

Of This I Am Sure.

2011-10-06T12:43:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my best friend laid her sweet brother to rest and I was so honored to be a part of it.

As I sat and listened to his family and loved ones speak of Jeremy's kindness, intelligence, and love for his family I couldn't help but reflect on the love our Heavenly Father has for us.

He is merciful, loving, and kind.

And he loves us each individually, without condition.

It's nice to be sure of this.

You Guys.....

2011-10-05T21:01:00.001-07:00

She wrote her name all by herself!!

oh geeze, I'm one proud Mama.

2011-10-02T23:05:00.000-07:00

Dance And Burns.

2011-09-18T18:13:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday afternoon Blythe had her first dance class!

And friends, let me tell you, the girl is a natural!

She just jumped right in and was totally in her element.

I am thrilled that I found this dance studio! The teacher is amazing and so good with these kids. When it was over Blythe was putting her shoes on and said, "Mom, this was the best thing ever!"

If only that happiness would last.

When we got home Blythe was so excited to tell her Dad, who has just arrived home before us, all about her new dance class.

I pulled in the driveway next to Jameson's motorcycle, got out of the car and helped Blythe out as well.

As we were walking up the driveway I had my back turned to Blythe when all of the sudden she began to scream. I turned around just in time to see her pulling her arm away from Jameson's muffler. From what I can tell she wasn't watching where she was going and walked right into it, burning her arm.

She screamed for a good hour and would not let me look at it or put anything on it.

After a little bit, I got her to let me look at it, and it had already blistered and was turning white. My gut was telling me that I needed to take her to the ER.

So we hopped in the car and headed to Primary Childrens.

She was SO brave. She had stopped crying by the time we arrived and she showed the nurse and the doctor her arm with no problems.

She didn't even cry when they put cream on it and wrapped it up.

It turns out that it was second degree on the edge and third degree in the middle, so it was a good thing that we went up so they could get antibiotic cream on it to prevent infection.

It's looking much better these days and I'm so glad that it wasn't any worse.

Nicely Done Boys.

2011-09-17T18:27:00.000-07:00

Remembering.

2011-09-11T16:05:00.000-07:00

I've been hearing the questions, "where were you" a lot today so I thought I'd share where I was ten years ago on the horrible day.

I was living at home and beginning my second year of college. I didn't have class that day so I was attempting to sleep in when my mom came in, flipped on my light, and told me that I needed to come watch the t.v.

I groaned, thinking she was showing me something dumb about the Olympics or some church history thing or something. But I was shocked when I got up to her room and saw the top of "Building One" on fire.

My first thought was, "How are they going to fix that?". At this time the news was reporting that it was a small plane that had hit. I kept wondering how on earth a plane, no matter the size, could miss a building that big. As time went on, the reports of a commercial airliner started coming in.

A little while later I stood up to go back to bed when the second plane hit "Building Two". I yelled at my mom to come out of the bathroom and my Dad simply said, "This is no accident."

For the rest of the day I was glued to the tv. I had to work that evening and at the time I was working at a hotel and we were completely full because air traffic. I surprised because most guests had come down from their rooms and were crowded around the tv in the lobby. People had their arms around each other, getting coffee for each other, and those who had cell phones were letting others use them to call their families because a lot of people were stranded.

The mood everywhere was so solemn. For days after even, and it was all anyone talked about.

I'll never forget that day. The images I saw, and the feelings I felt.

It was that day that I truly knew what it was to be an American.

First Day Of Preschool!

2011-09-09T13:55:00.000-07:00

Makes Me Grumpy.

2011-08-26T20:52:00.000-07:00

Today I was talking to a good friend of mine about her daughter who's just started her junior year of High School. She was telling me how hard this first week was going to be because of how afraid her daughter was of her peers, because she had been picked on year after year.

I couldn't help but think back to my time in Elementary School, especially fifth and sixth grade.

I started developing earlier than most kids so I was always a lot taller and 'thicker' than the other kids.

So one day in fifth grade some genius came up the the nickname "Tonka" (buffalo in Indian) and "Moose", it stuck, and I heard it multiple times a day.

Oh, and let's not forget my favorite, when I would walk into the classroom the kids would pretend there was an earthquake and fall off their chairs.

Awesome right?

I know. I miss it.

Pfft.

These were hard times for me, and I went home almost daily in tears.

It makes me scared for Blythe. Terrified to put her into the "lions den". Kids are cruel and anyone who's even the least bit different, whatever that is, is singled out and picked on.

Tonight as we walked over to feed the ducks I started talking to Blythe about starting preschool and always being nice to everyone, and to never make people feel bad.

She listened for a minute then finally looked up at me and says, "Mom, I will, I promise, it will all be fine."

It actually made me feel better.

Bullies make me grumpy.

New Blog.

2011-08-23T09:31:00.000-07:00

I have a new blog, and while I'll be continuing to post here,

I'd love for you to hop on over there too!!

MUAH!!

And yes...that's a fat mermaid.

Our Weekend Via IPhone

2011-08-21T20:29:00.000-07:00

Did you guys have fun too?

Try Not To Smile...

2011-08-18T05:49:00.000-07:00

I dare ya.

"The In-Between"

2011-08-16T10:36:00.000-07:00

(sunset over Lake Huron)

Ah..the "in-between".

This is what I call the last couple of weeks of summer. The last couple of weeks where the trips to the pool become less and less. Paperwork for school needs to be turned in. Supplies bought, school clothes pulled out. Even the nights become just a tad bit cooler.

It's the time in-between summer and fall that sort of makes me feel like I'm in limbo.

I get restless during these weeks as I'm pulled out of my summer routine. I get kind of sad when summers ending.

But it's been a good one.

New friends.

Trip to the Zoo.

Swimming at cousins.

Sleepovers.

Otter Pops.

Lots of Otter Pops.

Parades.

Fireworks.

BBQ's.

Reality Tv.

Sonic Ice.

Bug Bites.

Sunscreen.

Sunburns.

Tan Lines.

The list could go on and on.

What's your favorite memory this summer?

P.S. Wanna see a miracle? Go here. I shed some tears for her today. :)

Any Suggestions??

2011-08-14T14:21:00.000-07:00

yep, that's a picture of undies.

or as we call them, "big girl panties"

Blythe has been wearing them,

and doing awesome for about nine months now.

neat-o right?

Ugh, not so much.

For the past month Blythe has been having accidents at least once a day!

And I'm at a total loss....I have no idea what to do.

I've tried reminding her every half hour, taking her to the potty every half hour, threatening diapers and no preschool or dance, all sorts of things.

But to no avail.

Help Mommies....Any Suggestions?!?!?

Out Of The Mouth Of Babes

2011-08-09T15:17:00.001-07:00

I have a serious chatterbox on my hands folks.

If she's not humming, eating, or sleeping, she's talking.

Actually scratch that, she talks in her sleep as well.

Sometime's it's adorable, other times, I want to pull my hair out.

Here's a little sample of the B-Bug's chatter:

"Why is Dad's motorcycle black?"

"I love dinosaurs, I wish I had one."

"Why is there a yellow truck at that house?"

"That tree has no leaves right?"

"I like whales, but I don't like to eat them."

"Red popsicles are my favorite."

"How many dresses do I have?"

"Mom, why do you wear sunglasses?"

"How come the vacuum so loud?"

"Where is Nana, Where is Papa, Where is Aunt Megan, Where is Grandpa?"

"Is Grandpa my preschool teacher?"

"Pandas are my favorite animal, Orcas are my favorite whale."

"You can't wear backpacks at church right? Just if you are a missionary."

"I hope I look nice for my prince."

"Mom, what is this song called?"

"I don't like peanut butter right?"

"Movies are long."

"There is grass on our grass place."

"We have seven baby ducks that live there."

And so on, and so on, and so on.

Ahhh the B-Bug.

Currently....

2011-08-07T20:34:00.000-07:00

LISTENING:

to Cindy Lauper's "Good Enough"

EATING:

Ice

WEARING:

Yoga Pants & TShirt

FEELING:

sleepy and dehydrated

WEATHER:

clear and breezy

WANTING:

more self motivation to loose this extra person I'm carrying around (Weight)

NEEDING:

to get more organized.

THINKING:

about this little lady starting pre-school....

ENJOYING:

quiet time to myself.

WISHING:

that summer would last just a little longer.

Happy Sunday Friends.

Toasty. TOASTY.

2011-07-30T17:43:00.000-07:00

It's been too warm to go outside.

TOASTY.....to be exact.

Last month we were really into the pool in our development.

It's now SO last month.

So now we are doing crafts.

Like so:

Be jealous friends.

We rock the craft world.

Rock It.

Just Dance.

2011-07-18T17:05:00.000-07:00

So I have these two gorgeous nieces who have been in dance since they were just preschoolers.

They are both really good and ALWAYS dancing.

I also have another niece who is 18 months.

She has not been put in dance yet.

But she also dances all the time.

And with emotion too:

(watch her facial expressions)

The End Of And Era.

2011-07-16T07:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, thanks to my hubby, I was off to see the final Harry Potter movie.

As I was walking into the theatre I found myself thinking about when I went to see the first movie, ten years ago.

And here I was, three colleges, two marriage proposals, several friends, one marriage, and two babies later, on my way to see the last.

I've loved the Harry Potter series, and I'm a little sad to see it come to an end.

But friends let me tell you, they went out with a BANG.

The Fork In My Road.

2011-07-12T23:32:00.000-07:00

Almost five years ago to the day I literally came to a fork in my road. It was a time that I physically had to stop what I was doing, walking, talking, breathing, just for a split second, and make a decision. A decision that I knew would have a profound effect on the rest of my life.

So I chose a direction, and went that way.

Today I spent time with a dear, DEAR, friend that I haven't seen in years. And being with her caused me to reflect back on that moment. And the decision I made. I couldn't help but close my eyes and wonder what my life would be like now, had I chosen the other direction.

But then I opened my eyes and remembered........ I went the right way.

Encyclopedia Of Me-A

2011-07-08T10:34:00.000-07:00

ANTHROPOLOGIE

I am obsessed with this store. They have everything from clothes to dishes and it all has a vintage feel. Their clothes run small and everything is expensive so I only have a few dishes from there. And these days, I have to steer clear of the store all together, I cannot be trusted. But I have been known to browse their website for hours at a time.

AUNT

I love being an aunt. LOVE IT. I have eight nieces and nephews, one looking down on us from heaven, that I adore. I'm very blessed to be an aunt to these cuties. I don't get to spend as much time with them as I used to, but I think about them all the time! I've loved having them around and watching them grow up. I'm one lucky Aunt!!

2011-07-04T14:39:00.000-07:00

Have A Safe And Happy 4th Everyone!!!

2011-07-01T23:02:00.001-07:00

Ten Things On Canada Day.

2011-07-01T17:36:00.000-07:00

1. It's July. JUUUUU-LIE. Most of June was a blur. I was very ill. Five ER visits. Five days in the hospital. MRI. CAT Scan. Blood test after blood test. Lumbar Puncture. Crying. Sleeping. Pain. But it's over now. I'm almost back to 100% And I'm super grateful to be here.

2. I was looking through some pictures this morning, here's Blythe a year ago:

She still has a little of the baby face.

Ya, it's gone now.

She's a little girl now, getting bigger everyday.

So is her attitude.

3. I have a goal this month to revamp my blog. I was reading some of my archives and I used to be sort of funny. And lively. Oh, and I posted more than twice a month. Over the past few years my blog has been like a journal for me and it's part of my "story" that I want to leave behind. So I need to get with the program.

4. I'm addicted:

MasterChef.

Monday & Tuesday nights on Fox.

Watch it.

It will change your life.

5. I have a stomach ache that is rocking my world.

6. I've made some friends in the past few months and have been getting to know my neighbors. I love my new neighborhood and I'm so grateful that we get to live here.

7. Great blogs, here, here and here. And if you want to laugh really hard, go here. (WARNING: a tad bit of bad language, just so you are prepared.)

8. After six months I'm finally starting to unpack my craft room and put it together....it's kind of like Christmas because I'm finding things I'd forgotten I had!

9. My parents are doing very well, thank you for asking.

10. Remembering to be grateful for blessings is hard. I think I need to start making a list everyday, might help me change my attitude.

Photo Booth Awesomeness.

2011-06-20T08:46:00.000-07:00

Return.

2011-06-13T21:10:00.000-07:00

And we're back.

A few pounds lighter.

Lacking some color.

With a greater appreciation for my health.

And blessings.

And life in general.

Stay tuned...stories to come.

But for now I'm going outside to literally smell the roses.

Wordless Wednesday.

2011-05-18T05:15:00.000-07:00

This And That.

2011-05-17T21:09:00.000-07:00

Everyday for the past week Blythe asks, "Is it time to go to pre-school yet?"

We're in for a long summer.

*****

I didn't really get Blythe an Easter dress this year, more like an Easter outfit.

And she rocked it.

*****

Remember awhile back when I told you that

our neighbor across the street always left the upstairs window open?

Yesterday it was close.

Kinda creepy if you ask me.

*****

This little lady showed up in our community about a week ago:

She's all alone and I'm pretty sure she's lost.

I offered her a meal and a warm place to sleep but alas, she did not accept.

I can't help her if she doesn't want to help herself.

*****

I've been doing some serious crafting and

can't wait to show you all the things I've made.

I have craft paint on my hands and it's delightful.

Look What I Made Monday

2011-05-16T21:01:00.001-07:00

New Format A La Blog.

2011-05-15T14:14:00.000-07:00

I'm really boring these days.

I've had a huge case of writer's block for the past six months.

So I made up a little format that I'm going to follow a bit.

As it goes a little something like this:

Mondays: "Look What I Made Monday"

Tuesday: "This And That Tuesday"

Wednesday: "Wordless Wednesday"

Thursday: "Recipes That Rock Thursdays"

Friday: "Feelings About Life Friday"

And no blogging on the weekends.

So I hope this turns out well and I have interesting things to say.

See you tomorrow!!!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-11T18:03:00.000-07:00

Dear 16 Year Old Self....

2011-05-05T17:01:00.000-07:00

Start paying attention.

To what?

Everything around you stupid.

Your parents, actually know what they are talking about.

Knowing how your country is run is important.

What that Douglass kid thinks isn't. =)

You have an amazing talent when it comes to music, start taking piano again ok?

And next summer you're going to want to stop the violin.

Don't.

You'll thank me later.

Stop sluffing classes.

Stay and learn something.

Working hard is a good thing....you should make it a habit.

Put gas in your car. Cars don't run on wishes.

Having a boyfriend isn't everything, date different people, make a lot of friends.

Demand that Jessica stops working at the tanning salon.

Get to know your siblings better.

Continue to take good care of your body, it will turn on you when you get older.

Stop complaining about how thick your hair is....it won't always be like this.

And please, stop doing you know what, because you know what is going to happen, and you will feel pain like you've never imagined.

Choose a good college, swim in college, maybe save money for a car because the Buick won't last forever.

Stop honking for Jess in the morning because the neigbor will become a big part of your life.

Love yourself.

love your family.

And for crying out loud, HANG UP THE PHONE!!!

2011-05-02T21:24:00.001-07:00

Maybe We Should Talk About Easter.

2011-05-01T21:11:00.000-07:00

Being as it was a week ago.

Leaving carrots and our basket out for the Easter Bunny.

I wish her hair wasn't in the way, her face was priceless.

Easter egg hunt with the cousins at Nana's.

(total dorks)

But they all hit it big time, baskets nice and full.

Mi Casa.

2011-04-26T20:54:00.000-07:00

One of my resolutions for the new year was to make my home my haven.

What I mean by this, is to make sure that my home

is welcoming, a place where my family

can retreat to, a place where anyone feels welcome.

I just want my home to have a good spirit within it's walls.

Am I making sense?

This is our home:

It's cute huh?

(Hi Sally)

Can I just tell you how much I'm loving having our own place?

I am really trying to put forth the effort to

make it a clean, comfortable, welcoming.

In a way my home is becoming an expression of myself.

Sigh. Love my home.

Bora Bora.

2011-04-25T22:53:00.001-07:00

I'm thinking about Bora Bora.

It's in Tahiti.

I'm thinking about sitting on the beach and digging my toes in the sand.

About looking up towards the sky and letting the sunshine on my face.

Thinking about laying in bed at night and listening to the waves roll in.

About swimming in the not too cold water.

I could handle it.

Happy Birthday Conner!!!

2011-04-25T16:25:00.000-07:00

Love,

Your Favorite Aunt Ever. EVER.

P.S. I better be your fave because I have pictures I can use when you're older.

A Little Springtime "To-Do"

2011-04-23T20:37:00.001-07:00

Really? I had to of missed something!!

2011-04-20T21:05:00.000-07:00

I've been reading this book.

And it's been and easy, somewhat fun, semi emotional, read.

It's about a girl, about 18, who hangs out with the wrong friends, not making good choices, ends up pregnant, moves in with her uber active in the church brother and his wife. Has the baby, gives it up for adoption. Joins the church, marries in the temple. Just a feel good story.

Today during lunch I finished it.

And though to myself, 'well that was nice'.

Then I read the Author's Note.

And it went a little something like this:

"Writing this book was painful for me. From the moment my aunt phoned to ask me to make Suzie someone she could love, I knew I had to take on the challenge. Throughout the writing process, I asked myself many times, Could I give a baby up for adoption if I were in this situation? The answer? Yes. After all the research and all the writing and all the thinking about it, I know that I could. In essence.....I did. Handing Suzie's baby over to Anne and Michael was almost as though I had handed over one of my own children. It was hard. It hurt, but it was the right thing to do."

ARE YOU KIDDING ME????????????

I have read it over and over trying to see if there was something that I missed.

Really, did I miss something?

Oh, and Suzie? She's the girl the book is about. Anne and Michael are the adoptive parents.

ALL THE ABOVE MENTIONED PEOPLE ARE FICTIONAL.

zero stars. this book gets ZERO stars.

Shout Out.

2011-04-16T15:39:00.000-07:00

It's this cute guys birthday.

Love You Cute Guy.

There's A Hippo In The Bathtub.

2011-04-14T21:06:00.000-07:00

What a fun day. Busy. Fun. And a little crazy on the weather front.

Rainy and fuh-reezing this morning.

Sunny and still FUH-reezing this evening.

Now it's dark. Probably still fuhreezing.

FUH. Reezing.

Sound it out.

Someone asked me today what three major historical events occurred in my lifetime.

Interesting question right?

First one that comes to mind is obviously 9/11.

Um, Berlin Wall came down in 1989.

And, 2010 first black president.

We took Blythe to the doctor today for a possible problem with her feet and legs.

Guess what?

They, there were two, said she will grow out of it. She shows great signs that all will be well.

I'm thrilled.

Couldn't you just kiss these faces all day long?

I could.

Fun things are going on at work and the hours seriously fly by. It's a blessing.

I am very blessed and I need to start focusing on those blessings.

Current Obsession:

Yoga Pants.

Yummy Yoga Pants.

Journal.

2011-04-11T22:26:00.001-07:00

My new goal, every day for the next mont, I'm going to write in an actual journal.

Someones got to document how awesome I am.

Might as well be me. =)

Proud of this guy.

Fair.

2011-04-10T20:49:00.000-07:00

This week, in my noggin, the word 'fair' has been tossed around quite a bit. And what's odd is that several people in my everyday life have used it quite often recently as well. Did that phrase even make sense?

Quite often recently as well?

Hmmm.

Anyway.

Guess what? Life isn't fair.

Stomping my foot like a toddler, "It's not fair!!!!"

It's not fair that people you trust betray you.

It's not fair that sweet mama's loose their babies.

It's not fair that it's been snowing and it's APRIL.

It's not fair that they raised the price of Diet Coke in the vending machines at work.

It's not fair that the dorks who run our country want to stop paying those that defend it.

But guess what else? Along with not being fair, life also goes on.

And for everything that isn't fair, there are fifty things that are.

Gotta stay focused on those.

Today, for a brief window, the sun shone strong, the breeze quit, and I taught Blythe how to catch bubbles after she blew them.

That was fair.

Vivian....

2011-04-06T00:00:00.000-07:00

"I'll love you forever, I'll like you for always. As long as I'm living my baby you'll be."

Happy Birthday My Sweet Girl.

Easter Candy At It's Best.

2011-04-03T13:56:00.000-07:00

I love Easter candy.

Don't you?

As soon as it hits the shelves I make my stash.

It doesn't help my venture to be healthier, but oh well.

The best are as follows:

Cadbury Eggs

I like to bite a teeny bit off the top and suck out the middle, then I only eat half of the chocolate and throw the rest away.

A waste I know, but heartburn if I eat the whole thing.

Starburst Jellybeans

I only eat the pink ones. Luckily I have a hubby

and tot who like all the other colors so nothing goes to waste there.

Reese's Peanut Butter Eggs

Must be eaten frozen.

And finally Malted Eggs.

When I was little I used to lick them then rub

them on my lips like lipstick.

But now days I just pop one in my mouth

and suck on it until it dissolves.

(All the while resisting the urge to use them as lipstick.)

Blessings. A Tuesday of Blessings.

2011-03-29T20:55:00.000-07:00

I feel like listing blessings.

My blessings.

Blythe.

Jameson.

Family.

Freedom.

Health.

Job.

Groceries.

Home.

Education.

Knowledge.

Books.

Religion.

Speech.

Spring.

Car.

Could.

Go.

On.

And.

On.

More blogging.

I promise.

This & That Tuesday.

2011-03-22T20:56:00.000-07:00

Today was an especially trying day.

I seem to be having those more often these days.

I know exactly why, and I need to change my attitude.

Way easier said than done.

******

I have flowers.

Little purple flowers that are

poking their heads up through the dirt.

I'm thrilled!

******

I looked at the pic today:

Anyone know where my baby went?

(the rest of that sucker is still wrapped in

a paper bag in the bottom of my purse)

(gross)

******

Hey Nicole, sorry about Saturday, things were happening and I just got caught up,

and I'm too big of a wuss to call you and apologize.

******

Has anyone called Mother Nature yet to let

her know that she should just get with the program?

******

Because The Theme of Today Is Green...

2011-03-17T09:27:00.000-07:00

The Green Eyed Monster Of Jealousy.

Powerful little bugger she is.

She's been hanging out with me the past

few weeks and makes me bitter.

And that in turn makes me sad.

This next month my goal is to focus on being

grateful for the things I'm blessed with.

My blessings are great, huge in numbers.

It's hard to remember sometimes.

But I am grateful.

Oh, by the way.....

Erin Go Bragh.

Spring.

2011-03-13T23:02:00.000-07:00

oh friends.

guess what?

It's springtime here in the great state of Utah.

sigh.

Spring.

And with spring comes a fever, and the Morrill fam's got it bad.

Today we went in search of a cure.

We picked up some yummy lunch from

Whole Foods and headed to the park

where we stuffed our faces, then Jameson walked over

to the playground with Blythe.

I stayed behind in our spot and attempted to

read my book but got caught up in how

good the sun felt so I just baked for a few minutes.

Yum.

So this next week I'm going to talk about roasted

garlic, glasses, Alzheimer's and Breast Cancer.

Stay tuned.

P.S. Happy Spring Friends.

A Little Funny For Your Friday.

2011-03-11T18:36:00.001-08:00

Tears running down my face.

Tears people.

Memory.

2011-03-09T14:51:00.000-08:00

When I was a little girl,

I would always sit next to my Grandma in church.

Every Sunday she would wear a light sweater with deep pockets where she kept a handful of little cinnamon hearts.

Every few minutes during the

meeting I would reach in her pocket and grab a few,

pick out the pocket lint, and pop them in my mouth.

Now she keeps them in a dish on her kitchen table.

I love the memory that they bring each time I visit.

And I even sneak a few every so

often and they are just as yummy.

Even without the pocket lint.

One Of Many.

2011-03-04T13:40:00.000-08:00

So in a little under a year and a half,

I'll be 30.

Gulp.

Sometimes I look back on my

life and fear I've wasted it.

I've had a lot of ideas, goals and dreams.

Some I've done, a lot I haven't.

Today for some reason I've been

thinking about one of them.

Guess where I really want to go?

Ya, Africa.

I want to meet the people.

See the animals.

Help in the schools.

Take crayons, pencils, paper.

Clothes.

Vitamins.

Give all the hugs I can.

Take a thousand or more pictures.

Before I turn 35 I'll be there.

Promise.

Oh, and by the end of the trip...

This guy and I will be best friends.

Hey Sarah, remember this little lady?

Colors On The Noggin.

2011-03-02T22:32:00.000-08:00

I love spring, and it's in the air friends.

Spring makes me think of color, because it's when it begins to return.

I love color. I love looking for it everywhere,

taking pictures of it, filling my home with it.

This picture does not give these roses justice.

They were lovely.

This year I have roses of my very own in my front yard.

I have NO idea how to take care of them.

I should probably look into that.

I would have everyone of these chairs if I could.

And this is one of the many pictures of inspiration

I have when trying to put Blythe's room together.

Random. I know.

Don't you just LOVE this wreath??

I think that if I were to go to a home that had this on

the front door I would think

"There's happiness here".

I should make one.

Ahhhhh color.

Colorful.

A Question.

2011-03-01T00:33:00.000-08:00

Do your parents have an 'open door policy' at their home?

Meaning, when you visit your parent's home, are you allowed to walk in without knocking, or are you expected to ring the doorbell and wait for them to answer.

If you wouldn't mind commenting, I'd be interested in your answers.

xoxo.

Just A Tip.

2011-02-23T20:22:00.001-08:00

A Love Letter.

2011-02-22T20:23:00.000-08:00

Dear Blythe,

I missed you every second of today.

I kept looking at the clock counting down the minutes until I could get home and kiss your cheeks.

When I came home you ran to the door so happy to see me.

You had dressed yourself this morning in your Barbie shirt, your pink and red striped skort, and your pink sweats that are just a little too short for you.

I love that you pick our your own outfits.

After dinner you and me went on a date to the library.

You walked around and picked out your books.

Picked up the pictures to take home and color.

Pulled out your cell phone and 'talked' to your friends.

Stopped for a potty break.

And helped Mom check out the books and put them in the bag.

Afterwards I wasn't quite ready to end our date so we stopped for ice cream.

You said please and thank you, asked for a napkin, and giggled every time ice cream ran down your little fingers.

Then you ran around the play area and made sure that the little boy who kept calling you Martin knew that your name is Blythe.

On the way home we sang songs from The Princess And The Frog and you pointed out all the stop signs.

When we got home I had you go get your jammas and I rubbed lotion on your chapped arms and bum.

You turned around, put your arms around me and told me that you love me.

Little girl, you are my breath of life.

I love you the most.

Love,

Mama

Yep. It is.

2011-02-20T20:46:00.000-08:00

So this may look like a black square to you right?

Well guess what?

It isn't.

It's actually a picture of a naked man, my husband,

jumping into Pineview Lake on Christmas Eve.

Cause he's outgoing like that.

You're going to scroll up and look again huh?

He's there.

I promise.

Blue nail polish sounds exciting.

Maybe tomorrow.

Right now I'm going to finish watching "Sleepless In Seattle"

Or as Jameson calls it:

"Asleep In The Saddle"

Without Too Much Detail.

2011-02-18T11:55:00.001-08:00

Seeing this number yesterday scared the s*#@ out of me.

That's all.

Yes it's cryptic.

But it's my blog and I'll be cryptic if I want to.

Is cryptic the right word?

Boogers and Such.

2011-02-16T21:12:00.000-08:00

Today, at this very moment in time, I wish I was taking this picture again:

It's snowy, windy, and snowy.

I'm resisting the urge to go out on my porch and yell, 'Auntie Em' at the top of my lungs.

For no apparent reason.

This made me laugh until I peed a little.

She inspires me daily.

I want this. So very badly it makes my insides hurt.

I want this too. So very badly that my insides hurt for real.

Tonight I have some family members who are in desperate need of some prayers and positive vibes sent their way. Would love it if you could help me out in that department.

SnOw.

Ugh.

The End.

p.s. I have a pretty humorus booger story that I'm mustering up the courage to share. Maybe.

We'll see.

Body Image.

2011-02-15T19:54:00.000-08:00

Ah, where to begin...

Is this something that you think about?

I do.

For as long as I can remember.

I've always thought I was too big.

Fat.

Overweight.

Obese.

Whatever.

And unfortunately up until recently, I'd attached it to my sense of self worth.

Too Fat=Not Good Enough

But now as an adult I know that just isn't so.

Yes I'm overweight, and as a result unhealthy.

But guess what, I'm still awesome.

Right?

Hope so.

The other day I was browsing a catalog when I came across this ad:

Love it.

LOVE LOVE LOVE it.

But maintaining a good sense of self worth is way easier said than done.

For the past 28, gulp, years I've trained myself to believe that worth is measured inside and out.

It's just not so.

So this is what I'm working on this year.

Along with getting healthy, meaning, moving more and eating better, I'm trying to change my habit of attaching my self worth with my weight.

Am I making sense?

Do I ever?

Thoughts?

Happy Valentines Day!

2011-02-14T06:21:00.001-08:00

This And That. Oh, And This Too.

2011-02-13T07:13:00.000-08:00

This morning I woke up to Blythe counting the four freckles on my face.

In Spanish.

Thank you Dora The Explorer.

We have a neigboor across the street who's top window is always open.

Even when it's 14 degrees outside.

I've always wondered why, so last night when we both happened to be outside I asked her.

The only answer I got was, "It's my sons room."

So your son is an Eskimo?

Okay.

Tomorrow is Valentine's Day and I'm so excited!

A part of me almost...ALMOST...wishes that I got to decorate a box and take it to work and put it on my desk, then hand out Valentines.

I should anyway.

Simply to indulge myself.

Sometime this week, in my effort to blog more, I'm going to talk about body image.

And I would love love love, LOVE, to have your comments after I post.

I think it would be interesting to have your take on what I say.

Is anyone still reading?

Or have you given up on me?

I wouldn't blame you if you did.

I've been lacking in the post department lately.

We'll see how this week goes.

Love you guys.

Just Cuz.

2011-02-07T19:51:00.000-08:00

Oh Look At That Face.

Where did the time go?

Awesome. Kinda Weird. But Awesome.

2011-02-01T20:24:00.001-08:00

Okay, so usually I would keep an experience like this to myself.

But I'm feeling the need to share.

Cuz I do that sometimes.

So recently there have been a few things going on, and since I've moved and my friends aren't really close, and blah blah, I haven't really had anyone to talk to about stuff. You know, girl talk. And I've missed it. I mean I can talk to Jameson and stuff but I just haven't really been able to vent or anything, you know what I'm saying? And I've been constantly praying for an outlet. Just someone I can talk to.

Okay, so, this is going to sound CrAzY.

But, true story.

Last night after a particularly trying day, I went to bed way early. And I had a dream. In this dream I was sitting at a table and sitting across from me was the mother of my first born. (Her 'Adoptive Mom', which I hate saying because she's her mom, hands down, but you get the idea.)

Anyway. I'm sitting at this table across from Vivian's mom and I'm pouring my heart out to her. Telling her everything that's been going on lately, and all the things that I'm stressed and worried about. And she listened very intently, laughing with me, and holding my hand while I cried. She helped me to understand why things were happening. She told me things that I needed to hear and gave me ideas on how to handle some things that have been going on. We just had the conversation I needed.

And then I woke up.

And I felt 100 times better.

I know it sounds crazy, and it's the most random thing. But I'm so very grateful for this dream. And I'm so grateful for Viv's mom and the help she was to me.

Even though she has no idea what she said :)

So Awesome. WAY Weird. But Totally Awesome.

This Week.

2011-01-30T15:44:00.000-08:00

Blessings.

Work.

Yoga.

New Gym.

Radiation.

Spaghetti with tomatoes and artichoke hearts.

Boxes.

Power steering fluid.

Funerals.

Family.

Regrets.

Love.

Boogers.

Anxiety.

Craft Room.

Housework.

Decisions.

Next Week?

More blogging.

New Recipes.

Valentine's decorations.

Tour of new house.

Pictures.

Lot's and lot's of Pictures.

Important To Remember.

2011-01-27T21:48:00.000-08:00

Too Short.

2011-01-24T09:40:00.000-08:00

Today all I can think about is this sweet face.

This past weekend my friend's little boy

passed away suddenly in his sleep.

I can't even imagine.

Life is short friends. This makes me wonder if I

hug and kiss Blythe enough. If I spend enough

time with her. If I tell her I love her enough.

New Goal:

Tell my family I love them, MULTIPLE, times a day.

The Sunbeam.

2011-01-20T07:00:00.000-08:00

On Sunday Blythe had her first day of Primary.

She's a sunbeam.

And as you can see. They colored on little suns.

She told me all about her new

friends in her class and that they got to sing and play instruments.

And that she couldn't

wait to go again.

Bummed that there isn't snack

time anymore though.

Because you know.

The snacks she gets in Sacrament

meeting aren't enough. :)

Love Sundays.

Getting dressed up just makes

me hold my head a little higher.

Even though I don't wear nylons.

Shout out to Aunt Sarah for the totally rad shoes.

She says 'Meow' a lot when she wears them.

Today.

2011-01-19T10:33:00.000-08:00

This past week is started to feel like Spring.

They call it the 'January Thaw'.

I call it Mother Nature's way of saying 'PSYCH!'

rude.

.....

The sky is blue today. And the sun is out! I love it.

I'm so so excited for Spring, can you tell?

.....

This picture is one of my favorite in the world:

This is Blythe and my Uncle David.

They share a birthday.

But as this picture shows, they share a little something else as well.

.....

Yesterday was really emotional and I had a complete breakdown at work.

Couldn't stop crying. It was weird.

Much better today.

But totally embarrassed because I don't like bringing personal stuff to work.

.........

I want to make this wreath.

I need to start collecting vintage ornaments.

.......

Blythe is almost fully potty trained.

Love it.

........

Life Would Be Easier...

2011-01-18T19:14:00.000-08:00

As a snowflake on rollerskates.