Heading Back to Utah

Idaho fields and mountains. Gorgeous!

 Miss Kitty and her kittens. She's not giving them up to my camera.

I slept until 7pm this morning. I must have been very tired. I caught up on my blog from yesterday, watched Hayden play Zelda on the Wii and then got my shower and Tommy and I left to meet John at the Sizzler in Provo. We stopped at the Distribution Center in Spanish Fork and I got a Nursery Manual for my children's class I have on May 12. I also got the New Testament student manual. It was so good to see John. He has lost a ton of weight and his size 34 pants are falling off of him. He said he just quit eating junk. That's the same thing Janna did to lose her 30 lbs. They must be on to something. Ya think!!
We had an uneventful drive back to Idaho. I wanted to stay until Sunday but Tommy was ready to go. He wants to get back and paint the house. I'm all for that.
I indexed 4 batches that I had to finish so it wasn't all wasted time. I have a hard time seeing my computer screen in the car and I'm so comfy in the front seat that I don't want to go to the back so I can see better. One day I'll get back to scrapping while I travel.
When we came home Janna, Bailey and Jersey were here. Austin was with his dad and Harley was traveling with Scott. Bailey had to show me her new kittens. Miss Kitty had 4 kittens in the barn. She is being the best mom in the whole wide world.
Janna and I took Jersey home to Ammon and then came home and watched TV. That's my day. It's been a good one.
Grateful Statement: Today I am grateful for Dean and Amie and how willing they are to open their home to us. We just go down to our room in their basement and settle on in. I have a favorite chair so I'm all set. And Hailey shares her bathroom with us. I just love them all...
Romans 15 - Romans 16 In verse 1 it says, "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves." We are to bear on anothers burdens and help those we see need our help however that may be.

Day 2 of Women's Conference

This picture is very bad. I couldn't get my camera adjusted. Elder Bednar is down there. I promise!

 The snow coming down in Dean's back yard.

 Same snow in the front yard snowing on my new car.

Heather, Marcy, Gerri and Megan picked me up on the side of the road (I had started walking down to Heather's) and we were off for another fun filled, spiritual feast.
Julie Beck gave the opening presentation on the History of Relief Society. So many good things. My favorite was "Am I aligned with what my Heavenly Father wants me to become." This one made me think and ponder. Also she said to change "I can do hard things." to "I DO hard things." That really touched me because I have been doing hard things for a long time. Almost all my adult life. So I can do hard things and come through still faithful and strong. Yeah for me...
Gerri and I went to the Primary General Presidency's presentation "The Plan of Salvation, One of Heaven's Best Gifts to Mankind" It was very good. They talked of Stepanie Nielsen and showed her video.
Next was Lisa Bradshaw's presentation called "This is the Day of Our Opportunity". It was wonderful. She told of her experiences with hard things and how even when we are going through hard stuff we can always find someone to serve. We need to uplift and serve each other.
I stayed for the next one by myself called "If Thou Endure It Well, God Shall Exalt Thee on High". Sister Parkinson told of the struggles of her daughters. One lost her husband in a car accident leaving her a young widow with little kids. Another daughter had a brain tumor and is still dealing with the effects of the surgery. Another daughter can't have children. Sister Pugmire told of her son that was hearing impaired and committed suicide and her husband was diagnosed with cancer and died 58 days later. Her only daughter and her had to finish building the house her husband started. It made me know that we all have our trials yet there they are standing with faith and moving on.
Then I met up with Gerri and we went back up to the Marriott to hear Elder and Sister Bednar. Elder Bednar talked about living in Fayetteville, Arkansas and the discrimination of his kids because they were "Mormon Boys" but in the end they would ask there kids if the Bednar Boys were going to a party or event. It the answer was yes they would let their kids go, if it was no they wouldn't. Now that's a powerful testimony that we are being watched and we can change people's attitudes about us.
Tommy picked me up at 5pm and we went to the Mexican restaurant in Payson. We are going to have lunch with John tomorrow at the Sizzler in Provo on our way out of town. Tommy wants to get back and start working on the house.
Grateful Statement: I am grateful for all the direction I have been given these last 2 days. I just keep thinking about Elder Bednar saying it is better for us to do a perfect fast once a month that fast for 3 days, or read our scriptues faithfully everyday than read the whole BofM in a week, or pray every morning with sincere desire than to pray for 5 hours straight. I do these things. I go all out and then it doesn't hold and I stop. I need to be steady and persistent in all thing. I learned soooo many things. I am so blessed to have been able to come.

Day 1 of Women's Conference

Heather and her mom Marcy came and picked me up at 7ish and we were off. These are the presentations we went to:
"By Small and Simple Things" Sister Virginia Pearce talked about the power of prayer.
"Ideals Are Stars to Steer By; They Are Not a Stick to Bear Ourselves Up With" Sister Barbara Thompson who I dearly love gave the first part of this presentation. She told of 17 things she came up with after listening to conference that she needed to improve. What a funny lady.
"We Are Going To Do Something Extraordinary" This was a discussion with 4 past General Relief Society Presidents. Sister Elaine Jack, Sister Bonnie Parkin, Sister Mary Ellen Smoot and Sister Barbara Winder. It was funny and very uplifting.
" There Is Nothing In This World...As Nurturing, or As Life Changing as The Influence of a Righteous Woman" Sister Madsen and Sister Merrell presented this. Sister Madsen is the mother of 10 children and one of her sons is a pro basketball player. She was hilarious. She told of pulling out her scriptures when her kids were contentious and quoting scipture to them. Funny lady.
"The Legacy of Relief Society" John and Susan Tanner presented this. It told all about the history of Relief Society and Brother Tanner told of the 7 concurrent generations of Relief Society president in his family.
We stayed for the concert. It was fabulous. Kirby Heyborne, Hilary Weeks, Josh Wright, Focal Points and a concert violinist that I can't remember her name and my favorite, David Osmond. It was so entertaining and good. I have been spiritually fed today.
Grateful Statement: Of course, today I am so grateful for Women's Conference. What a wonderful treat to have to go to. And for my friend Heather for getting my tickets.

Going to Woman's Conference in Utah

We left around 1:30 to drive to Utah. I waited as long as I could so I could keep an eye on Austin. He is starting to feel better but he has a cough. So his mom said no baseball tonight. Maybe he will be well enough to go to school tomorrow.
Our new car just buzzed down the road. It's so comfortable to ride in. I love it!! We hit all the traffic thru Salt Lake and South County so it took us until 6:30. We had stopped at Wendy's in Blackfoot so I could get one of those delicious salads. I only put half the dressing on it so it wouldn't be so many points.
Now we are at Dean's all cozied up in his basement. Tommy is napping and I'm indexing. Everyone is gone so it's just us.
Grateful Statement: I am grateful for a safe trip. Heavenly Father watches over me so well.
Romans 14 - Romans 15  Verse 13 "Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling block or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way." That pretty much sums it up. Don't judge!

Tending the Sickie

I spent the day taking care of Austin. I had to pick him up from school and take him to the doctor. He has a bad cold but strep is going around the school so we weren't taking any chances.
I took Bailee and her friend Abby to YW last night. Abby told us her mom was going to go see the bishop and start going back to church. I'm glad Bailee was always having me stop to see if Abby could go.
This is short because the long version with all the details disappeared into cyberspace. I published it and then it was gone.
Grateful Statement: I am grateful YW and how it teaches the the girls so much.
Romans 13 - Romans 14 Verse 10 "Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law." If everyone loved their neighbors what a wonderful world it would be.

Hanging out with the Kids

The kids were home from school today so we hung out all day. I took Bailee and Austin into Kings to get an Easter treat and came home and Harley and I left clues all over the house so they could find their treat. It was fun. Tommy and I went to Home Depot and got samples of paint so I can paint a big spot on my walls to see what color I want. We also discovered that the tapers had cut the drywall all around our tub and shower inserts so the edges are no longer covered with drywall. I don't know what they are doing but I guess tomorrow we will find out. If they have made a mistake they WILL be fixing it. We will just have to wait and see.
Bailee came with us to Idaho Falls and watched Happy Feet there and back on my DVD player. Austin had his first Baseball game so Janna and Scott took him to it and he won. Harley wanted to hang out at home. We took Bailee to KFC so she could have popcorn chicken.
Bailee and I fed goatie last night and the chickens that roost on the rafter above... Yep, one of them pooped on my back. Oh, the life of living with critters. Bailee thought it was hilarious. I wasn't that impressed. It reminded me of when Janna was just walking she was outside under our big trees in Studio City and a bird pooped on her head.
That's been my day and now it's time for bed.
Grateful Statement: Today I am grateful for all of God's creations. I was looking at the new 3 little baby goats and thought how wonderful that we have all these animals to enjoy.
Romans12 - Romans 13 Verse 20 "Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head." This verse made me laugh. Heaping coals of fire on your enemies head.

Easter Morn

Bailee and Jersey feeding the goat while Janna and Bailey watch.

 Leslie, Kim, Jill, Scott and Jeremy watching too.

It was beautiful today. The sun was shining and no wind. Janna and I went to church today. The kids didn't want to go. Janna and I were too tired to fight with them and Tommy was sick. Whatever! The Bishop and our High Councilman spoke. It was good to hear about the resurrection of the Savior. They sustained me to my new calling. When I stood up the Bishop said "oh good, she's here." What! I'm here every week." But I love my new Bishop so Janna and I just laughed.
We came home and put on our jeans and loaded up some stuff out of my house to put into storage. We have to have the stuff out that we don't want to get drywall mud all over it. I especially wanted to take my microwave that was setting on the floor in the kitchen.
But before we could do that Harley came in and said the goat was having her babies. She had already had two of them and Harley was helping one by wrapping it in a towel and drying it off. Then the mom lays down and has a third. Good job mom. Now that's 14 little goats born to Harley and Boyd's goats.
Scott's sister Kim and her family came over to have Easter dinner with us. And his two sons and their girls. We finally got the stuff over in storage and came home and helped with dinner. Scott barbecued steaks, hamburgers and some fish for Janna and I. It was yummy good. The kids hid Easter eggs for the little ones and helped them find them. Then Scott went and got goatie so Jersey could feed her. That little goat stole everyone's heart. He just followed the kids around. Jersey just wasn't too sure about him.
We sat around and talked until 7pm and Janna and I went for our 2.1 mile walk. I was tired but felt so much better. I had to walk off the little piece of chocolate cake I had eaten for dessert. Now I'm tired and I'm going to bed.
Grateful Statement: I am so grateful to my Savior for going through so much pain and agony for me. I am grateful for the Ressurection and the knowledge that we will all be ressurected. What a gift we have been given.
Romans 11 - Romans 12  Verse 26 And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob" I love how Paul calls the Savior the Deliverer.

Busy Saturday on the Farm

Harley and Chocolate Chip. She loves her horse.

 Our new addition named Scout. Isn't he cute.

 Janna and Goatie

We spent the day working on the farm. Harley worked her horses, Janna fixed stuff with her dad, I watched what everyone was doing. I did shovel some dirt around the house and picked up stuff off the lawn so Janna and her dad could thatch and mow it. I got goatie out of his pen and he followed us all over all morning. Such a cute thing isn't he.
I made Spaghetti for dinner and did the dishes. I also helped BJ make her favorite cookies. No Bake Oatmeal just like the ones Aunt Amie made. They looked good but I didn't have any. Janna's visiting teacher came over and brought her some cupcakes. We didn't eat them either.
Then Janna and I went for a long walk. We walked 2.1 miles tonight. My feet feel it, but I felt so much better afterwards. I love my daughter. She makes me a better person every day.
Grateful Statement:  I am grateful for the ability I have to walk 2 miles. I hope I can do it for a long time.
Romans 10 - Romans 11 In verse 14 it says, "How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?" I looked up the reference to preacher in the D&C and it refererred to preachers as missionaries. Then the verse made sense.

Lost More Weight

Janna and I went to WW this morning and weighed in. I lost another 4.8 lbs. That's 7.8 all together. So it was a good weigh in and we stayed for the class. Doing good so far.
We took the kids to Wendy's for lunch while we were out and I ordered their Apple Chicken Pecan Salad. It was so yummy. I thought it couldn't have very many points because only the pomegranite dressing and the pecans and the cheese had any points. So I came home and googled it to track my points. It had 15 points. Holy smokes. So I get 49 extra every week so I'm okay, but I just couldn't believe it had so many points. It must be the dressing. It really was worth the points though, because it was so good.
We went shopping for sugar free jello and water for Janna and I. We had to get milk and a few other things. Then I came home and cleaned a little on my house. It just looks so good. All the drywall is done inside the house. Logan will do the garage on Monday. We are getting there. I can't hardly stand the wait.
Grateful Statement: Today I am grateful for my the Gospel. I love each and every aspect of it. I love that we have a Prophet to guide us. I am glad that we have wards all over the world. I am sooo glad for Temples and the peace that we can get from just going. My heart is full of gratitude for this wonderful church.
Romans 9 - Romans 10 Another hard chapter. But we must have Faith. It is key to our salvation.

Meeting Ila

My Scraproom/Office looking into my kitchen. Drywall done!!

 My windows in my scraproom looking into Janna's house. We can wave at each other...

Today was pretty laid back. It was cloudy and rainy so I tried not to leave the house much. I had volunteered to sew some book bags for the Relief Society service project but when I got my sewing machine out I didn't have the foot so I called the RS Pres. and she suggested that I call Ila to see if she would do them for me. She said she would so I took them over to her house. It was a little hard to find because I was looking on the wrong side of the road and her house was at the end of a long driveway. When I got there she had 2 African Violets for me and a Spider plant and a Pothos that was rooted. She has a house full of plants. She has been a widow for 7 years and is 74 years old but so much fun. We talked for awhile and then I came home with my plants and didn't spill or knock any over. How sweet was that of her. One more sister I know.
Then in the afternoon I had to go pick up Bailee and her friend Maudie (she is moving to New York on Monday) from school. They have to ride their own bus or get permission for that transportation dept. So it's way easier just to pick them up.
Then Tommy and I went into Idaho Falls to Home Depot to get more dry wall screws for the garage that they are doing tomorrow. We came home from that and I watched American Idol and now I'm going to bed.
Grateful Statement: Today I am grateful for the opportunity I have had to visit sisters in the ward. I know that before long I will feel right at home.
Romans 8 - Romans 9  In verse 32 it says, "He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us call things?" I know that Heavenly Father loves me and wants to give me eternal life with him. How comforting for me as I go through this earth life.

My First Visiting Teaching in Rigby

I start here...

 This is the  middle all the way across the lake.

More middle...

This is the end stretch.

Sign at the end. I'm telling you it's a long way.

When I got up my hip was giving me fits and my feet. I couldn't figure out what was wrong until I realized I had walked yesterday. So I just kept plugging along doing laundry, dishes and checking on my kitty. I had to go into town and get salad stuff so I put on my walking shoes and made myself go and walk. It only took me 24 minutes today so either I had the time wrong yesterday or I walked faster today. But I was glad I made myself do it.

I made chicken and rice and salad for dinner. I made sugar free jello with apples in it for Janna and I. They have drywalled most of my house and should be done tomorrow. Then they have to do the garage. It looks so wonderful. It feels like a house now. I just love it!!
Then I went visiting teaching with my new partner. We got it all done. It was so much fun and I really got to know my partner. We sat in a driveway waiting for a sister to get off work and had a good long chat. So it was a great day and I know 4 more sisters in the ward.
Now it's 9pm and that means bed time for me. Good Night...
Grateful Statement: Today I am grateful for Bailee. She is such a Diva. She loves her friends and always want to go to someone's house or have a friend over. She loves kitties and bunnies. Her next pet will be a turtle. I love her cuteness...
Romans 7 - Romans 8  What a hard chapter to understand. I'm glad there was a heading so I could sort of figure out what Paul was talking about. Or maybe I just need to read it 10 times.

New Calling

I had a fabulous day. I went walking around the little lake in Rigby. I bet it's pretty in the summer when it has water in it. It was the longest mile I have ever walked. It was very, very long. But I made it and it took me 34 minutes to walk it. I wanted to go around again but my face was frozen. It was sunny outside and looked so warm until I got out in it. Then the wind came up and was cold.
After I finished walking I went to the market to get the stuff to make Chili for dinner, did a couple of loads of laundry and swept up some of the drywall mess in my house. I kept going and checking how my house was coming along. It is looking good. I have a big laundry room. It looks bigger now that it's drywalled.
I took the kids to Scouts and YW tonight and met with the Bishop. I have a new calling. I'm over the Children's Class for RS meetings. I can't wait to get to know the kids in my ward.
Now I'm watching TV with the kids and getting ready to go to bed. 9 pm is my bedtime and it's almost that time.
Grateful Statement: Today I am grateful for Harley Anne. She is such a hard worker. She has the cutest smile and infectious laugh. I just love her.
Romans 6 - Romans 7 In chapter 4 it says, "Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life." I had never thought of Baptism as a symbol of the death and resurrection of Christ.

Drywalling...Wahoo!!

Logan and his helper started doing our Drywall this morning. I am so happy! One more step started.
I went into town today to the bank and to Broulim's Market to get some tomatoes (they should be made of gold) to make tacos with. It was a little rainy and cloudy but what else is new. Then I cleaned house and vacuumed. Austin came home from school and helped me move the chairs so I could vacuum under them. He is so helpful.
I looked out the window this afternoon and one of Harley's Llama's was out of it's pen. So Janna came home and we had to herd it back in. Seems there is always something loose around here.
I made the Tacos for dinner and took Austin to baseball practice and Janna and Scott went to IF to buy shaving for the stall of the new horse that was born yesterday. Very cute little thing.
Now I'm blogging, indexing, Frontiervilleing and soon I'll be going to bed.
Grateful Statement: Today I am grateful for Austin. He just makes my day when he come home from school. He is always happy and excited about everything. And he is so helpful to me.
Romans 5 - Romans 6  This chapter talks alot about the "abundance of grace". Thank goodness Heavenly Father had mercy on us sinners and sent His Son...

Rafting Page

Everyone is busy working on the farm today. It's Stake Conference and no one wanted to go to church. I remember when I thought Stake Conference was a day off church. And I just couldn't make myself go alone for some reason. So I am listening to the Saturday Morning session of General Conference so I can be spiritually fed today and indexing. So that's what I'm doing today.
What wonderful talks and counsel. It was so different with ear buds in. I could hear every word and every expression. I need to figure out ways to serve those who are less fortunate. I am so blessed and have so much.
Scott made dinner for us and we didn't do much this afternoon. I indexed, and finished this page and helped feed the animals. I fed goatie tonight. He just won't leave me alone. He follows me everywhere. So cute...
Tommy and I worked on figuring out the cabinets for my office/scraproom. I think we will have to go to Lowe's and have them do it.
That's been my day and now it's time to relax and get off this computer.
Grateful Statement: Today I am grateful for the President Monson and all the Apostles. I am grateful for General Conference and the direction they give us. I am grateful that I have learned to love it!!
Romans 4 - Romans 5  Verse 20 where it says of Abraham, "He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God." really jumped out at me. What 100 year old man would believe that they could have a child. I had to read this chapter a couple of times to really understand it.

Cabinets and Countertops Ordered

Bailee and Maudie trying to find something fun at Lowe's.

We went to Lowe's today and ordered our kitchen cabinets and countertops. Bailey and her friend Maudie came with us and we met grandpa there so he could take them to the dollar store and Janna and I went to the mall to take back Austin's dress slacks that were to little for him. We also took back a pair of pant of Bailee that the button had fallen off of the first time she wore them. Janna bought some jeans and I got one pair a size smaller than I wear so I have something to work towards.
We came home from that and I did dishes and we went to the mexican restaurant for dinner. Then we took Maudie home and settled in for the night. Then Janna got a call that one of her probationers that had been missing was in Idaho Falls. She had to go and talk with her. I guess the girl was a little upset and opened the car door on Janna and ran over and got in Janna's car. So she called the police and they arrested her for assault on Janna. What a night.
Janna and I are now watching TV and I'm getting ready to go to bed.
Grateful Statement: Today I am grateful that my cabinets and countertops are ordered. One more thing down.
Romans 3 - Romans 4 This verse 23, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;" makes it very plain that we all need the mercy of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

Drywall Delivered

Janna and I went to WW today. We both lost 3 lbs. We are doing a 5K walk with our WW group on May 22. I'm pretty sure that will be a breeze. Thanks to Heather and all the walking we did together I know I can do it.
They delivered our drywall today so we are set to have it hung. We are trying to get someone to tape it. We have someone to hang it but he doesn't tape. We'll have to figure that one out.
Austin had to go under the house again after school to rescue the kitty. She went through a vent in the garage when they were putting all the drywall in the house. Hopefully she can't get under there anymore.
For dinner tonight I made oven roasted vegetable and baked chicken. I have never roasted vegetable before but they were delish. I toss carrots, potaoes, bell peppers, brocolli and cauliflower in olive oil seasoned with thyme and oregano. So good and so easy. That's what I learned about at WW today. The lady that taught our class said that's the way she does her veggies.
Scott took Harley, Bailey and her friend Maudie to see Rango tonight. Austin went on his first overnight campout with his scout troup. Janna is doing her taxes on Turbo Tax. Tommy has gone to bed and I'm indexing. That's what's up around here tonight.
Grateful Statement: Today I am grateful for Weight Watchers. I am grateful they have a place that will help you lose weight.
Romans 2 - Romans 3  As I read this chapter is just reinforced in my mind how much Heavenly Father loves each and everyone of us the same.

Insulation Finished and Inspection Passed

Today the Insulation guys came back and finished insulating my house. They put plastic over the studs and blew in insulation over the foam they put in yesterday. They also insulated the garage. Then the inspector came and passed it with flying colors. He looked at it and said "Man, you are ready for dry wall." So that's our next step. While they were running their equipment it scared my kitty and she found a little hole under the bathtub and ended up under my house. After they left I had Austin and Bailee go under the house and rescue my kitty. She was glad to get back in her house. She seems to be in need of being rescued every day.
I made potato soup for dinner and took Austin to Baseball practice because Janna and Scott bowl on Thursday nights. After I brought him back home it was time to sit and relax. I watched American Idol and just did nothing. I also got a skirt for Bailee cut out today and changed my sheets so I guess I did accomplish some things. Now I'm going to bed.
Grateful Statement: Today I am grateful for the insulation guys that did such a good job making my house warm and cozy. I will get through the cold winters with flying colors.
Romans 1 - Romans 2 I don't think it could be more plainly spoken what God thinks of these things. Pretty plain and bold.

Idaho Falls Temple

Today I went to the Idaho Falls Temple. I saw this tree with these Crocus' coming up and it was my sign that spring really is here. Even though it is raining this evening. It's getting warmer and warmer and the sun shines everyday for a little while. Today it lasted all day long until I took Bailee into town to get some balloons for her pinata for school. When we came out of Abbots it was raining hard.
They sprayed insulation in between the studs today. The house is already warmer and quieter. They will be back tomorrow to do something else. Tommy didn't know what. My kitty got out when they turned on their sprayer. It scared her and she took off outside. I finally found her behind the A/C unit. I will have to put her in her carrier before they come tomorrow.
I worked on genealogy today. I'm trying to clear out all the names on my Temple Ordinance List on New Family Search. I am down to 54 names now so I'm getting there. I started with over 260 names.
Grateful Statement: Today I am grateful for the beautiful flowers that make me know that spring will come. It is so wonderful to see them come up and bloom so pretty.
Acts 28 - Acts 29  In verse 22 it says, "But we desire to hear of thee what thou thinkest: for as concerning this sect, we know that every where it is spoken against." We have the same thing today with Anti Mormon pamplets and demonstrations. In Idaho Falls they have a church that actually holds classes that are against the LDS church. Some things never change.

Beautiful Spring Day

Today was just gorgeous. It was sunny and warm. I do believe spring has sprung. I scrubbed floors today with my Shark. I learned that it doesn't work so good for dried mud on floors. So I did alot of hand washing spots. But once all the mud is gone it will be easy. I also balanced checkbooks again today so Janna can pay her bills. So I had a productive day.
I got a little down this evening. Just missing my friends and Utah family. So I went for a walk and that helped a little. Then I went to my house and had a little chat with Heavenly Father and decided that it was up to me to make friends. So I called my visiting teaching partner. I finally had to call her husbands phone because she didn't answer hers and there was no voice mail. I finally got to talk with her. Her name is Patty Billman. She works all day monday thru friday so I am going to call our 3 ladies and set it up for after 6pm. That made me feel like I was contributing to the ward and then the Relief Society president brought me the supplies to make book bags for a service project. See how Heavenly Father hears my prayers.
I took the kids to Scouts and Young Womens and Janna and I went to pick them up. We ended up bringing a few extra home with us. It's a good thing I have a 7 passenger car. That's been my day.
Grateful Statement: I am so grateful for the power of prayer. I always know that Heavenly Father will look after me if I do what I'm supposed to do.
Acts 27 - Acts 28  I found it very interesting reading about the ship wreck. I love the verse about the Angel that was with Paul.

Electrical Passed Inspection

We passed the electrical with the State of Idaho so now we can insulate and drywall. I am so happy. I can feel progress coming on. Insulation on Wednesday. Then inspected and then drywall. And today the sun is shining and it's so nice. What more could a girl ask for!

I went to feed goatie and check on the 3 new goats that were born yesterday. Such cute little things. 11 new goats do far this year. Harley will have her work cut out for her selling all of them. But she is good at it so she'll get it done.

We went to Johnny Carino's Italian Place tonight for Scott's birthday. I tried to take a picture but it was too dark in the restaurant. I had a little spaghetti and marinara sauce and one roll and a salad. Probably too many points but I'll just use my extra and the ones I earned for exercising. It took 3 hours to get seated and waited on. Way too long. Scott's boys were there and Leslie and Jersey. We did have fun even if it took forever to get home.

Grateful Statement: I am grateful for Sunshine.  I love it when Heavenly Father sends some to me.

Acts 26 - Acts 27 In verse 28 it says, "Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian." I bet when King Agrippa died he wished he had become a Christian.

Fabulous Sabbath Day

Janna, Bailee, Austin and I went to church today. It was good. I enjoyed the testimonies that were bore. Relief Society was good and our Sunday School lesson was good. Tommy was sick once again.
We came home and I took a nap. A long good nap. I woke up and put the rice in the cooker and the chicken in the oven, opened a bottle of pickled beets and a can of corn for the kids and that was dinner. It was good and fit right in with WW. Then I went for a walk for 1 hour. We walked all over this place. But it made me feel good. Now it's time to put my tired feet up.
Grateful Statement: I am grateful for my dear daughter that makes me walk just a little bit farther until I have walked for an hour.
Acts 23 - Acts 26  I couldn't stop reading about the injustice that was being done to Paul. It so reminded me of Joseph Smith.

Grocery Shopping

I helped Tommy pull a wire for the electrical this morning. It was a grounding wire and we had to pull it through a pipe with a come-along. I couldn't do it all the way because I wasn't strong enough but between the two of us we finally got it done. Tommy finished the rest of the stuff the Inspector told us we had to do and I went on line and set up another inspection for monday. Hopefully it will pass this time.
Janna and I went to Walmart grocery shopping. Saturday morning, Walmart, tons of people. Not my cup of tea but we got it done. The kids brought all the groceries in from the car and Janna and I put them away.
Janna and Scott took the kids to Hiece Hot Springs tonight and Tommy and I watched TV. I indexed some more census' and worked on Frontierville. It keeps me from being bored. I can't wait until we can paint our house or do something I can help with.
I kept track of my points and stuck to WW's today. On a roll, one day down....
Grateful Statement: I am grateful for Conference talks that I can listen to over and over. I go online  on my Ipod when I go to bed at night and listen to the talks. I also downloaded the book, "Believing Christ", and I listen to these as I go to sleep. I am learning alot.
Acts 22 - Acts 23 The heading says that "Paul recounts the story of his conversion and also tells of seeing Jesus in a vision—He is accorded some privileges as a Roman citizen." I thought of the Conference talk Waiting on the Road to Damascus by President Uchtdorf. I can so relate to this talk.

Weight Watchers Day

Bailee and Maudie having a sleepover. What cute girls these are. I love the pipe cleaner mustaches.

Janna and I went to Idaho Falls and signed up for Weight Watchers. We went to our first class and got all our books. We are bound and determined to stick with this. I'll just take it one day at a time and before you know it I'll have lost some poundage...
We went shopping after that. I didn't spend any money. Couldn't for the life of me find anything I couldn't live without. So I guess that's a good thing. Janna found some shoes and an outfit for work. Very cute.  We went to lunch at Red Robin and I had a plain hamburger and melons instead of French Fries.
Then we came home and I fed Goatie his bottle and went back to Rigby to pick up Bailee and her friend Maudie for a sleepover. It's been a busy good day.
The inspector from Jefferson County came over to inspect the framing and the Idaho State Inspector came to inspect the electrical. Tommy has to fix three things on the electrical and the framing passed with flying colors. So Tommy went to Idaho Falls to get the wire he needs to fix it tomorrow so we can get the inspector out on Monday and then we insulate.
To top the night off Tommy took me on a date to the restaurant at the Golf Course. We had prime rib and it was delish. Tomorrow is WW time so no more of this. I'm ready for it....
Grateful Statement: Today I am grateful for my hubby. I am grateful that he is willing to work so hard at 73 years old to build this addition for me.
Acts 21 - Acts 22  In verse 13 it says, "Then Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." How Paul loved the Savior.

Snowing Again

Woke up to white stuff again. I wonder if it will ever quit snowing. I can only hope spring will come some day. It's just got to. I just know it will. I just know it will. I just know it will....
Tommy and I went to Idaho Falls to order my carpet. It goes off sale on Friday so we got it all ordered. Garth is going to install it. When I asked him how much he said nothing. He said we did a lot for Logan (his brother) and I thought Logan did a lot for us. They are just the most awesome brothers. I'm still going to pay him something some way. We also went to Home Depot and I looked at sinks for my kitchen and bathroom fixtures. So many decisions to make.
The plumber came to put the venting through the roof for our microwave/vent. We had to have the template that comes with the microwave for him. One more thing done...
I also spent a considerable amount of time getting a building permit for the electrical from the State of Idaho. I finally got it done and went on line and order an inspection for tomorrow. We'll see if they show up.
I took the kids to Abbott's so Austin could get a styrofoam ball for a science project. They took their own money and bought their stuff. I looked at all the quilt fabrics but just couldn't make myself buy anything. Just can't think of a project right now.
Janna and Scott went Bowling tonight so I'm watching American Idol. That's been my day. A good one!!
Grateful Statement: I am grateful for my critters. My dog and kitty are so much fun and give me some good laughs. I'm grateful that Heavenly Father gace us pets. I even love that cute little goatie that I get to feed everyday. So very cute. I just think I have come full circle in my life. I started out my life on my grandma's farm and here I am againn on Janna's mini farm.
Acts 20 - Acts 21  Amazing that Paul could preach until midnight. He must have had some very important things to preach to them. The man that fell asleep and fell out of the loft was blessed to have Paul there to bring him back to life.

Legal Page of Harley

Today was a good day for me. I made this page from a challenge on Learn With Me site. I decided that I needed to keep doing this before I can't remember how. I love to scrapbook and have a few pictures that need to be done so I'm going for it.

Tommy and I went into Rigby and fixed our insurance. It's cheaper up here than in Utah. But our agent was very nice and we had a great conversation about his parents mission in Samoa and visiting the church sites.

Then they installed Janna dishwasher and I made Beef Stew for dinner. That has been my day. I got some Indexing done during the day. I watched American Idol in my room with Molly. Now it's time for bed.

Grateful Statement: I am grateful today for wonderful grandkids. All my grandkids are so special to me. I thought about them alot today and how much they mean to me.

Acts 19 - Acts 20  I found it very interesting that the cratsmen that worshipped Diana were concerned that if no one worshipped her they would not be able to sell their gods they made for the people to worship. It seems to be all about the dollar then too.



Here Comes Harley

Harley and her learners permit. Now she wants to drive everywhere.

Today was the day I worked on bookwork. I got my account all done. When you can get all the information off the internet you need it's so easy to figure all this out. I did that and made Potatoe Soup for dinner at the same time.

I went into Rigby to get a seam ripper for Austin's scout shirt. I took off the old numbers and put on his new badges and used the sticky stuff. So much easier that sewing them on. So I got his uniform all ready for his first day as a Boy Scout. At 7 pm Harley drove (with mom) to YW and Austin had scouts at the same time. So convenient. And Harley stayed for YW. Now that's a miracle. Bailee took a friend with her so she was happy. It was a good day.

Grateful Statement: Today I am grateful for my hubby who spent the day climbing up and down a ladder putting up lights in the garage. He has always been able to figure things out. He must be a smart man...

Acts 18 - Acts 19  I was very impressed with Apollo who taught the gospel after he was taught by Aquila and Priscilla.

Our New Car

Tommy went today and bought our new car. It's a Chevy Traverse and we like it. Now I can go anywhere I want to go and I don't have to worry about anything happening. The kids love it because it have a DVD in it and they can watch movies. I can feel a road trip coming on...

 Janna feeding Goatie surrounded by kitties. I wonder where Harley gets her love of animals from?

It was bitter cold out here but these two don't mind.

                          

Tommy worked on electrical this morning and then went to Idaho Falls to check on cars. He ended up going back to Rigby and buying the one we test drove on Saturday. I couldn't go with him because I had to pick the kids up from the dentist. And really, I didn't want to go. I just wanted to hang out.

I went out at noon to feed goatie and Harley had brought home the new baby goats she had bought a couple of month ago. When I open the stall door to get to Goatie I scared them and they tried to run away from me but just "fainted" and fell over on their side with their legs stiff as a board. How funny they are. I had never heard of "Fainting Goats" until now.

Grateful Statement: I am grateful for Apostles. I watched Elder Holland's talk again today. So inspiring and moving. I used to think when they talked about genealogy that I was okay with that. Now I know that I was right and I just need to indentify the talks that I need to work on. That's about all of them. How merciful of Heavenly Father to give us these leaders.

Acts 17 - Acts 18 In verse 28 it says, "For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring." How can anyone not understand that Heavenly Father is just like us and not a mist or something with no form.

Conference Sunday

I watched both sessions of conference today. I loved all the speakers but when Elder Holland spoke it just lifted me up. The Spirit is so strong for me when he speaks it just brings tears to my eyes and I so want to do all he asks. I am going to listen to that talk everyday this week. I want to remember every last detail of what he said. I loved his tribute to our wonderful Prophet. You could just tell how much he loved him and supported him.
Janna got the skidster stuck in the garage and had to have Garth come over with his tractor and pull it out of the mud. Ronnie brought the kids back from their weekend with him. They had fun and rode in a dune buggy around the potato farm where Ronnie works. And Scott got home with Harley at about 4:30. So we are all back.
I fed my cat and checked on her. She is doing very good and likes being in my house. Now she comes to me when I go out there so I guess she wasn't too tramatized. Eventually she will be a garage cat again. She is just too furry for my house.
I listened to some of Saturday's Conference tonight and did indexing. I indexed a ton of names today while watching Conference. It has been a wonderful Sabbath Day!!
Grateful Statement: Today I am grateful for Janna's good friends that will come over and help us out of our messes. Garth and Logan are the best.
Acts 16 - Acts 17 Paul was such a great missionary that he converted the jailer. I love verse 5 where it says, "And so were the churches established in the faith, and increased in number daily."

Tending the Sick

Austin had a sore throat this morning but wanted to go to school. I looked in his throat and it didn't seem red so off he went to school. His teacher called Janna around noon to say he was very sick and needed to go home. What the heck!! Next time I'm listening to me and not Austin. So I went and picked him up. They said there was Strep Throat going around so Janna made and appt and I took him straight from school to the doctor. He had a little red in his ears and throat but it wasn't strep. So the doctor gave him a presciption and told him he could play his ball game if he was feeling like it. He was worried that he would miss one. So I got him tons of juice and put him to bed watching cartoons. Hopefully tomorrow he will be feeling better.
I took Bailee to YW and we stopped and got her friend Abby. Abby said her mom was going to meet with the bishop and start going to church again. Way to go Bailee. She had to talk long and hard to get Abby to go with her and now she wants to go every time. We will be led by the children.
Grateful Statement: Today I am grateful for Abby and her desire to go to YW. It's good to see someone make the right choice.
Romans 13 - Romans 14 Verse 10 "Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law." If only we could always love our neighbors what a wonderful world it would be.

Going Home Again

Tommy and I got up early and grabbed the kitty and off we went. The kitty really wanted out of the carrier but I didn't want to lose her again so we just took her. I kept telling her, just 4 more hours, just 3 more hours. But she made it fine. We stopped in Tremonton for breakfast and off we went again. I put the kitty in my house and she just ran and hid. So I left her to get used to her new place and took my shower and got ready for my day. Janna, Tommy and I went and got Janna a new dishwasher. The one she has doesn't clean anything. It has one spray bar on the bottom to clean all the dishes in the dishwasher. So my gift to her for putting up with us invading her house was a dishwasher. I love that daughter of mine.
Then we went looking at cars. We took one for a test drive. It was very nice. The wind was blowing so hard that we finally just gave up and came home. But Tommy is going to look around some more.
We went to our favorite little Mexican restaurant for dinner so we didn't have to cook. Now it's time to watch American Idol (taped shows) and get ready for bed.
Grateful Statement: Today I am grateful for a safe trip home and that my kitty made it just fine. Tender mercies of my Heavenly Father to me.
Acts 15 - Acts 16  In verse 39 where it says, "And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus." It was interesting to think that they had contention in their day also.

We Signed Papers on The House

Harrison and his sugar free bubblegum. I just knew he'd like it.

 

 

Today is Harrison Thomas' 12th Birthday. What a celebration he is going to have with his friends tonight. I gave him his birthday money and sugar free bubble gum. Hayden let me take his picture too. Such cute boys.
Tommy and I went to Utah First Title and signed all the escrow papers on the house. It's official. It belongs to the Evan Richards family. What a long haul we had selling it but now on to the next phase of my life. After we finished with the Title Company Tommy and I went to RC Wiley and bought our Refrigerator, Stove with a double oven, Dishwasher and a front loading washer and dryer. They actually deliver to Rigby. Who would have ever thought that could happen. And I think we got a good deal on all the stuff.
We came home from that and took John and Malachi to lunch at the Chinese Buffet in Payson. Pretty good food. I couldn't eat very much because I was stressing over my cat. It had disappeared and only reappeared when I wasn't around. We must have went by the house a jillions time trying to see it.
I had sat on my glasses this morning and had to go to the Excel Eye Center in Payson to get them fixed. And while I was there I ordered a pair of tri focals that I can wear all the time. I think it will be better than all these pairs I have to keep track of. Then we went to Elk Ridge City and cancelled our utilities. As we were driving home we went by the house one more time and the Richards were starting to move stuff in so I rang the doorbell and told them that if my cat came around to call me. They said she had just been there and had gone across the street to the Swensen's. I finally found her in their backyard laying in a flowerbed. So I caught her and put her in her kennel and put her in Dean's garage. Now she isn't going to escape, no matter what.
Then we came home and rested our old bones and I cancelled the rest of my utilities and put my dish on hold. I walked down to Yvonne Norton's to give her some cards to have the Temple do the work. It is so nice to have a good friend who will do this for me.
We met John in Payson and had a hamburger for his birthday. I said goodbye and gave him a big hug. I just can't describe how much I love my children. And if I love mine this much how much more does Heavenly Father love me.
Now I am blogging and listening to all the boys in the theatre room watching a movie and having a great time. They have a table full of goodies outside the door just like at the movies. What an awesome mom Amie is. She thinks of everything.
Grateful Statement: I am so grateful for Harrison and John. My two birthday boys. They bring joy to my life. And I know that John doesn't think he does but he has got to be the best hugger on the planet. That brings me joy...
Acts 14 - Acts 15  I love this final verse "And there they abode long time with the disciples."