Cary's Story

What a great day!

2012-01-15T15:40:00.000-08:00

Karter got baptized yesterday. He turned 8 on December 6, but because we wanted to wait for Curtis to turn 16 so that he could baptize him, he had to wait a whole month and a half for this special day. There for a little while I was afraid that Curtis wouldn't get to baptize him after all and I wondered if waiting had been a mistake, but it was a wonderful event! I couldnt have asked for a better day.

The first wonderful thing about it was that it was a family baptism, not a stake event. I don't mind stake baptisms. Any baptism is amazing, and it is neat to see a group of cute, innocent 8 year olds eager to enter into the Kingdom of God. But my family really needed a wonderful spiritual experience, and this was definitely it!

The program started with Mekenze, Arielle, Mady, and I singing I Know That Redeemer Lives acapella with 3 part harmony. (it was amazing, I must add :) but how could that song not be?) The Spirit entered in at that moment... Mady offered the opening prayer, then Mekenze spoke on baptism. This is when the Spirit bore His first witness that this church is true and that baptism is an essential living ordinance, not only to the congregation but I think even more importantly to Mekenze. There is a time in everyone's life when he or he needs to gain personal testimony. Mekenze's tears were a strong indication that her testimony was definitely strengthened at that moment.

Watching Curtis baptize his little brother, using his new priesthood ordination to further the Kingdom of God in his own family was an out of body experience. It was one of the happiest moments of my life. Dave told me later that when Karter was changing out of his wet clothes he said that he felt awesome! Second witness of the Spirit...

Arielle then spoke on the Gift of the Holy Ghost. More tears. Another witness... Then Dave gave Karter a beautiful confirmation and blessing which I wish I would have written word for word! Karter is a strong young man with a great work to do on this earth! And during the blessing the Spirit bore witness to me of the power of the priesthood and of the worthiness of my husband and of my gratitude for him. I am truly blessed!

The talks by the primary president, Lyla Thomas, and by Brother Platt, member of the bishopric, And the beautiful closing prayer by my brother, Zach, were just icing on the cake. The Spirit was so strong! It really could not have been more perfect!!!

The extra amazing thing about the baptism is that Arielle's boyfriend was there. He is investigating the church and is currently seeing the missionaries in earnest effort to discover for himself if the church is true...or not...and if baptism is truly essential for entering into God's Kingdom. He shed tears, many tears. He can't deny what he felt...we are praying that he will continue to have undeniable spiritual experiences that will allow him to move out of his head and let the Spirit guide him.

**My only regret...I failed to take many photos. Here are the ones I did take. My favorite is the one with Karter cuddling up with his new scriptures.

Curtis with Karter in front of the font, before and after being dressed

in white

Karter with his very own baptism book that has the testimonies of all of our family (priceless)

Personal AHAS from The Book of Mormon

2012-01-04T07:13:00.000-08:00

Our bishopric challenged us to read the Book of Mormon in two months, starting January 1st. I have been offered this challenge before, but I was always in the middle of some other study or whatever else excuse I had, but this time, even though I had JUST started over and was only in Mosiah, I decided to take the challenge seriously, and for 4 whole days I have been faithful!!

I want to share the thoughts I had today as I read...they are simple, but they apply directly to my life at this time, so to me they are profound. (I feel like I need to journal it to remember, and what better journalist avenue than my blog, right?)

You know the story of the Liahona? The one where Lehi's family had been commanded to leave Jerusalem and travel in the wilderness for an unspecified amount of time to a Promised Land because Jerusalem was soon to be destroyed... Soon after they had begun their journey, but after they were far enough away from Jerusalem that a "quick trip back" would require some effort, they were commanded to return-not once, but TWICE-to first retrieve the brass plates and then to bring back the family (and most specifically) the daughters of Ishmael to marry. After these two missions were successfully accomplished, they were ready to move forward in their journey, and THEN, the morning that they were to continue on, (and after having proven himself faithful in whatsoever the Lord should ask,) Lehi finds the Liahona (his olden day GPS) outside of his tent.

I have heard this story several times, so it almost seems like I, personally, have taken the journey several times. I know it like the back of my hand. But today as I read, I started thinking about how Lehi and his family were totally going in faith. They didn't google "Promised Land" and print the directions before they left. They had no idea where they were going, what "Promised Land" really even meant, but they went forward in faith, hoping that the Lord would give them the directions they needed AS they needed them, and as is apparent in this story, not until the VERY moment they needed them...

My other AHAH moment this morning was during the story of the broken bow. Nephi broke his bow, and the other bows had lost their spring, so basically, they were without means to acquire food. Even Lehi murmured this time...Nephi remained strong and faithful, reminded his family that all they needed to do was ask the Lord what they should do, then go to work in making another bow. The part that touched me was, although Lehi had murmured and was "less righteous" at that moment than his son, Nephi still turned to him to ask whither he should go for food. Lehi was still the head of the household, the Patriarch of his family. He was also human and had weaknesses--he was tired and his family was hungry. Nephi did not judge him. He boosted him up, then he honored him and turned to him for guidance.

This was in answer to a question I had earlier this week. A family study session had "failed"--and without placing blame here, I was left with the question of whether I should take charge and wear the pants and, in my wrath, strongly insist that so and so get out of bed and get to work, or whether I should quietly go about my own personal study, pray about what to do, and counsel with said "so and so" about making our family study work. I chose the latter... Yesterday we had a mini version of our study, headed up by the proper authority, and it was fine, but I still wondered if I had chosen the weaker path. I think this story today answered my question...

New Year's Resolutions

2012-01-01T18:45:00.000-08:00

January 1st. New Year's Day! I'm not sure what it is about a new year that feels so good. It is refreshing to just have a new start...even though it is really just another day...there is just something about it

So it seems kind of obvious, then, that I love New Year's resolutions. I know I have many for 2012, but when it comes to verbalizing them, it is hard to put them to words. I know I need to find a renewed passion for my life. I don't know exactly where it went, but I have had an apathetic, passion-stealing cloud over me for a little too long. So my resolution #1 is to breathe and appreciate the beauty of each new day.

#2 I have been feeling like my body needs me to do yoga. The pain in my knee is becoming debilitating and affecting the quality of my physical self, and I am certain the pain comes from my lack of flexibility, etc. I have done a few yoga sessions from a tv program and last Saturday I went to my first hot yoga class. I was a little embarrassed, but it felt really good. I am going to go again tomorrow. I am hoping that I learn to love it and that my body enjoys the benefits.

#3 I need to be better organized. Not necessarily physically--I manage fairly well in that department--but with time management and mental organization, I struggle. (I kind of hope that yoga might assist in this area as well.) With school, young women's, busy kids, housework and meal preparation (which I have barely done lately,) as well as my business, which has thankfully been running itself with the amazing clients and team members that I work with, I really need to master my calendaring skills. I want to do well in all the areas of my life, and I know it is possible with organization. I'm not sure how I am going to go about it. I'm hoping that the fact that I am writing it down will magically create a solution that works. :)

#4 Family Meals...enough said...

#5 Be debt free. So, I do have a plan for this one! I will live within the allowance that Dave gives me, then I will work my HM business enough so that I can pay off all bills that I have created for myself (don't ask...) I can do this!!!

#6 So this last one sounds terrible, and I am almost hesitant to put it down here or anywhere besides my own mind, but I am choosing to as an act of faith in the power of stating my intentions and as an accountability action... this year I will remember and act upon what it feels like to enjoy being a mom. I have a deep love for my kids and for my calling as a mother, but somewhere in the hardness of it all, I have lost the ability to find pleasure or fulfillment or success or.... I don't even know the word... I will find it again. Sooner than later. My family doesn't have time to wait for me. I am starting by getting to know my Savior better, trusting Him as my partner. I am also making myself take time for quiet peace each day, meditation of sorts, to connect with the Spirit and to find the little joys (another desired yoga benefit.) A lady I was speaking with the other day told me to picture a white, bright room with a throne. Every time I am "dealing" with kids, imagine myself sitting there, peacefully listening, and returning love instead of judgment. It sounds like a nice idea. I know for a fact that it is going to take time and --ahem--personality changes to follow through with this suggestion... "Let them know I love them. That is all I can do and all that matters."

Well, there are a few little "filler" resolutions that I am sure I will squeeze in, but these are the big ones. I am excited for 2012! A new year is just what the doctor ordered!

It's Christmas!

2011-12-25T17:19:00.000-08:00

I am still struggling with the idea that it is even here, and now it's pretty much over. It has been a wonderful day-a wonderful season, in fact-but it has come and gone in such a flurry that I feel like I'm standing here all jaw dropped and wide eyed...

The thing that has stuck with me this season, above all else, is the TRUTH to he Christmas story. Mary and Joseph really did travel to Bethlehem as very young expectant parents to pay their tributes to Caesar. They really did exhaust all options for a place to stay and found themselves in the lowliest of conditions, but that humble crèche became a literal piece of Heaven as Mary gave birth to he King of Kings, the Savior of the world. I am forever grateful for the circumstances in my life that have allowed me to know this beautiful, true story. I know it more than I know myself.

Today I was blessed to hear my oldest daughter and her friend sing "I Know Tht My Redeemer Lives" in her singles' ward sacrament meeting. It was beautiful. Tears filled my eyes as the spirit bore witness to me once again ...HE LIVES!!!

Gingerbread Houses!

2011-12-13T17:45:00.000-08:00

I have always wanted to make REAL gingerbread houses. The one time I tried (my kids were all really little) was a disaster. It was a skeewampus shape, and it never really did stand up...I'm sure you get the picture...so we resorted to graham crackers or packaged kits or just looking at them at the Jubilee of Trees.

My visions of gingerbread houses were reignited when I saw my friend, Jen's, blog. SHE MAKES AMAZING GINGERBREAD HOUSES with her family!!! Even better, she included the recipe and pattern that she uses. SO, of course this year was the perfect year to make REAL gingerbread houses.

Mekenze and Mady got off to a great start. I was thinking their house would win for the most creative. But then...

They started a little late and kind of lost out on the choice of candy. They had decorated one whole side before they realized that the candy was gone...

Not to be hindered, they ran to the fridge and found...well...see for yourselves!

My favorite is the bologna front door and the mustard snow...

It wasn't long before they deposited it in the trash...

Dave and Karter teamed up, and I must say they make quite a team!

Arielle and her boyfriend, Braxton, also teamed up and did a great creative job.

After sitting as a decoration on the kitchen counter for a week, we couldn't handle it anymore...they looked too yummy! (they were hard, but taste is what matters, right?)

Self Confidence

2011-11-20T12:30:00.000-08:00

I am realizing that self confidence comes in two parts: spiritual and physical. Both of them are needed for complete confidence, I believe, but I am also starting to realize that of the two, spiritual confidence is more important, more of a foundation, than the other.

I have never had much confidence in my physical self, and there are times that it have mourned that fact and have gone looking for it, usually to my detriment. I have made it kind of my "mission" to help my kids have that confidence so that they aren't afraid to let their light shine to the world. I have been so happy for (and jealous of) their talents and the opportunities they have to develop them. They seem physically confident...

On the other hand, I have almost always felt quite confident in who I am as a spiritual being. I thought that I would naturally just pass that along to my kids. But I am realizing more and more that while part of me was born with spiritual confidence, I also had to learn to apply this spiritual sense of confidence to my physical life. I have two very strong memories of how this happened:

The first memory is of when I was in 4th or 5th grade. (FYI--This is going to sound worse than it really was. I am remembering it in tunnel vision, so in reality, the negative stuff wasn't as intense as it sounds.) I was ugly, overweight, had very few friends. I hated going out for recess. I didn't like to play, and when I tried to be active, I felt like everyone was watching me move around and laughing because I was awkward and fat. So I would usually sit and read or draw or talk to the teachers until they made me play, and then I would just walk around and look at my feet so that I didn't have to see people looking at me, feeling sorry for myself that I didn't have any friends.

One day, as I was thus wandering the playground, I heard a voice tell me to look up and smile and be friendly to people. Nobody would be my friend if I didn't let them be. It made sense to me, so I listened to the voice and immediately did what I was told and tried to be everybody's friend from then on out. And although I was never "popular" or the life of anyone's party, I have felt since then that I have lots of friends, at least from my point of view.

The second memory is actually a melangerie of events, all involving music, around the age of 16. I will mention one sunday in Young Women's--I must have been feeling extra down about my outer self or something--we sang "Learn of Me" by Janice Kapp Perry for the opening song.

"Learn of me, and listen to my words. Walk in the meekness of my light, and I will give you peace, my love will never cease, for I am Jesus Christ." I started to cry,--I mean, I was sobbing-- and could not stop! I had to leave the room because the tears just kept coming. They weren't tears of sadness, however. They were relief and happiness and unconditional love. I knew and still do know, without any doubt, that the Savior loves me.

I have never doubted that I am a "daughter of Heavenly Parents with divine qualities that I am striving to develop." (from the YW Personal Progress Value, Divine Nature.) All of my life's goals and purposes stem from this knowledge, and all my major life decisions are made quite simply from my understanding of eternal life as the big picture. I just know what I will and won't do... because I am a Daughter of God and someday I will be like Him.

I thought that the spiritual part of everyone was strongest. I know now that it is not. I am lucky to have it this way, but I also need to make sure that my kids know who they REALLY are, from the inside out. Remembering how my spirit grew could help me do that...don't you think?

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2011-11-13T19:25:00.000-08:00

Today I have been reminising about the pioneer trek and all that has happened since then that I believe is related to the fact that I agreed to go. I found the photo gallery that someone created and spent an hour (at least) browsing through the 2600 photos taken of those 3 1/2 long days.

This is Curtis with his family. He was afraid to go because he thought he was going to be placed with "stupid people," but he fell in love with his family and they have had several parties since the trek. :)

This is the amazing Mac trek Fam. We seriously had a super great bunch of kids in our family. They were fun, hard workers, didn't complain, and personlaities all seemed to fit together perfectly! Our group had all of the best, most innovative ideas. Leaders...

There were some fun times. They gave us a whole afternoon to play pioneer games, rest, square dance, and just enjoy simplicity and nature. Here is Curtis playing checkers. They also had stilts, stick pulling, stickball, archery, and a trading post.

The Mac Fam men, hard at work.

Arielle only came for half of the trek, but she was "lucky enough" to experience the silent women's pull...It was soooo hard!

Here I am, trying to get that dang handcart up the steepest part of the whole trek during the women's pull. I must have pulled the best faces, because they put several lovely headshots of me looking like I was in pain on the photo gallery. I am choosing not to post them here... :)

The Mac Fam women, bringing up the rear. Our girls were really strong and had a great rhythm.

Curtis makes a preppy pioneer.

Arielle with her family...

Quite a group!

I just think this is a great shot of the Mac Boys!

This was the greatest site ever!!!

The trek is just one of the many things that I said I would never do that I have actually found myself doing in 2011. I believe that I am being prepared for something...I'm not sure what...but I am thankful that I have had to turn to my inner strength and to the power of God so that I can be ready for whatever is in store.

It is interesting to me that tonight, as I was pondering this blog post, I looked on facebook to see that my sister, Dani, had posted a true pioneer handcart story that she found http://lds.org/ensign/1972/10/an-evening-of-historical-vignettes?lang=eng&cid=facebook-shared that included one of my ancestors, Elizabeth Xavier Tait. She was part of the Willie Handcart company that endured so much:

I am Elizabeth Xavier Tait. I was born in Bombay, India, in the year 1833, raised in wealth and aristocracy. I was educated in the best schools in India, graduated from college at age 14. My family in India was displeased with my joining the Church. They begged me to forsake my husband, William, and my church and remain with them in India. But after my young son died suddenly of cholera, I knew I must not heed the pleading of my parents and friends. My husband left for Zion before I did; I was to follow after because my health was too frail to allow me to go with him at that time. At my departure, I was disinherited by my family. It was while traveling to England that I faced one of my hardest trials. My baby girl, the last of my children, took sick and died while I stood helpless. After I arrived in America, I found myself a member of the fourth, or Willie, handcart company.

Many of the carts were tastefully painted to suit the fancy of the owners, while here and there appeared inscriptions such as “Truth Will Prevail,” “Zion’s Express,” “Blessings Follow Sacrifice,” and “Merry Mormons.” Snatches of the marching song “Some Must Push and Some Must Pull” served to lighten the monotony of the daily routine.

Fall came early with a frosty night. Aspen groves turned yellow on the mountain slopes, and crimson patches of oak held forebodings of approaching winter. Far down the plains of Wyoming the Martin company moved hopefully up the Platte.

The daily rations were cut again with a prayer that help would come on the morrow. But the morrow, instead, brought death—first one, then another, and another. Life went out as smoothly as a lamp ceases to burn when the oil is gone.

(The men's) shoes were so worn that they finally fell from their feet, and they bound them up with pieces of gunnysacking and strips of canvas and cloth. In spite of this, their feet were cracking and sore and bleeding so badly that tracks of blood were left on the snowy trails.

Shouts of joy rent the air; strong men wept till tears ran freely down their furrowed and sunburnt cheeks, and little children fairly danced with gladness.

WILLIAM TAIT:
I knew Elizabeth was in the company, and as the time approached for the appointed arrival of my wife, I grew both rejoiceful and anxious at the thought of our reunion. My anxiety mounted to near panic as the winter of that year came unseasonably early and severe. I volunteered as a member of the rescue company to meet my beloved wife. I cannot tell you of the fear and helplessness I felt while en route. Would we get there in time? Would she be alive? By October 31, 250 teams had been sent to relieve the sufferers. On October 20, the first of our relief wagons came into sight of the Willie company.

This is an awesome story, and it seems much more real knowing that it was one of my direct ancestors AND because I sort of understand in a small way what the experience was like. I guess it is time to storybook Elizabeth Xavier and William Tait's story...

If Only...

2011-11-06T15:14:00.000-08:00

If only there was a button that only Moms could push that would call in the reinforcement staff. One push in times of sheer exhaustion, desperation, confusion, or overwhelment would call a maid, a cook, a chauffeur, a counselor, a seamstress, a disciplinarian, a tutor, a shooter-from-the-hip...and simultaneously send the Mom into thin air, a place where she can sleep or read or run or do absolutley nothing OR EVERYTHING until her strength and desire to be Mom returns.

Of course the Mom wouldn't abuse the button, because no Mom in her right mind would allow another to take over her rein for too long. That is why she took the one way passage into motherhood in the first place. One can never return...and really, who would want to? But just for a day...can I please have that button?

My world will have one...

Never A Greater Feeling!

2011-10-30T17:43:00.001-07:00

I am feeling so blessed right now! I wish I could go into details about why, but maybe if I talk around it enough...

It all starts with having kids. When they are small you think they are the world...well because they basically ARE to you..and you think they think YOU are the world...and maybe they do, for a little while. But then they grow up, and things change somehow. The kids' world starts to grow, and you become not much more than a small speck on that world, while at the same time, your world grows so much smaller until soon the kids are able to just step on it and crush it. The saddest part is that they often DO!

But you know, it's all good because at least you taught them correctly and they will always remain true to the truth...go forth with faith and never make a wrong choice...except for the times that they DO, because (Dang It!) they WILL!

The realization that your kids are people too is a wicked awesome realization, and I mean that VERY literally! Let's take all of the emotion of "awesome"--your kids are beautiful, talented, strong adventurous people who have every capability of taking the world by storm--and stir in a cup or two full of all the emotions that "wicked" can conjure--these people you call your kids have their agency and it is time for them to wean themselves off of your testimony and find their own in a world that shouts every exciting and glamorous untruth imaginable (cue the "great and spacious building.") It is an emotional rollercoaster, at one moment a heart-wrenching concoction that resembles the bitter cup and the next a glorious magical trip to Willie Wonka's Chocolate Factory. (Are you getting the imagery?)

There once was a time when you could affix curfews and create incentive charts that rewarded them when they were good and punished them with they made unwise choices. But now, suddenly, you are left to stand by and watch as the world attaches these consequences, both wonderful and not so much...instead of to parenting books, you now turn to your Heavenly Father. PLEASE help them remember! Please touch their hearts and help them make all the right choices! P.L.E.A.S.E...?!!?

Now that you are (hopefully) getting the picture...I just need to say that right now I see my kids-turned-adults DOING IT! They are finding their testimonies and aligning their lives to what they know to be true. It is glorious and beautiful!

Some Little Good News-es

2011-10-22T21:27:00.000-07:00

Karter started Kombat Kids. It is a mini MMA class (right now it is actually a one on one private training because it is a new class and he is the only one--pretty cool) and it is a pretty good work out for him. He really likes it, especially since his big brother is taking similar classes.

Madyson was chosen to be Snow Queen in the Nutcracker portion of the Diamond Talent Christmas show. She is a beautiful dancer and I can't wait to see the show.

Curtis has been working out a lot and taking MMA fighter training. He really loves it and is getting quite good and thinking through and coming out on top.

Arielle does not have cancer! That is a happy thing!

The doctor thinks her pain and other symptoms have something to do with her digestive tract. She did colon cleanse today...we will see if it helps her.

Hopefully the pain will go away and we can end our worries and experimental visits to doctors...

(she'll kill me if she finds out I posted this picture, but it's a pretty good illustration of how she has been feeling...)

Mekenze turned 20! and she spent her big day in Florida at Disneyworld Resort being treated like a queen. I want to give more information as to WHY she was there, but I think it needs to be a secret for now. But she had the time of her life and said that the whole experience set a new precedence for the rest of her life. How cool is that?

A Little Good News...

2011-10-17T18:27:00.000-07:00

I realize that the freeze frame of the video I posted in my last blog was a little...umm...questionable, so today I am posting something happy to move it from my opening page. :)

One of my all-time favorite songs, sung by one of my all-time favorite singers, is "A Little Good News" by Anne Murray. In 2009, she did a remake with the Indigo Girls:

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Whenever I start to feel the weight of the world on my shoulders, I sing this song and I try to list all of the "good news" I can think of. Here goes!

1. I took my algebra test and I think I did well!
2. I remembered to pick Karter up for MMA and to take Mady to dance all in the same run...
3. Karter went to MMA and had a really great workout!
4. Arielle felt good (for the most part...after this morning) today!
5. I am actually making dinner. :)
6. Mekenze is making some good life decisions and is feeling excited about life.
7. I talked to my sister, Dani, on the phone.
8. I got to visit with a friend I haven't seen in awhile.
9. The weather today was FANTABULOUS!
10. Tonight Curtis and I will watch House, MD. :)

Do you have any good news? I would love to hear it!!!

The World Is Too Much With Us...

2011-10-16T15:59:00.001-07:00

I have so many things on my mind ALL THE TIME and when I sit down to blog about them, they disappear. I'm going to sit here and just type until I access that black hole of my mind.

I have two videos that I want to post, because I know many of my thoughts this week have been centered on those:

"Miss Representation"

This video shouldn't be shocking, but the way it is put together really got me thinking.

The second one is so cute, equally as powerful, and could possibly be an answer to prayers.

"Worth Waiting For"
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There was a time that my kids never wanted to bring their friends to our house to "hang out." I understood--I was the oldest child and I know how "annoying" little brothers and sisters can be--but I really wished they would bring their friends home so I could meet them. Now that my kids are older, this has changed dramatically. We have done a lot to our house to make it more appealing to the kids, and I really believe it has helped them want to be here. I have a houseful of teenagers at my house almost all of the time. Some of them call me (different versions of) mom, and I love it! Having them here has also tuned me more into the world that these kids live in. All of the messages that are constantly surrounding them: the movies, the music, the fashions... I can understand why living a virtuous life can seem "lame;" girls who dress modest are not necessarily seen as "hottest;" drugs and vulgar language are everywhere and it's "no big deal;" music is more fun when the beat is loud and fast and the lyrics don't matter...

I'm not saying that my kids (or my newly adopted kids) are bad kids. On the contrary, they are AMAZING and valiant and vulnerable and impressionable and ... sigh ...

I am not a worryer. It is not in my nature to be paranoid, but I feel the weight of the world on their shoulders. How do I help them to seek after things that are "virtuous, lovely, of good report, or praiseworthy?" (besides moving to the hills and living in seclusion, that is...)

Needless to say, my prayers are becoming way more specific and fervent.

Familiar Road?

2011-10-09T16:13:00.000-07:00

Do you ever feel like life is changing, like your routine is all of a sudden confused and you are not sure why but you can feel you are being prepared for something? I have felt this way for at least 5 months--starting with the Pioneer Trek--like I was being prepared for something hard...

Well, it might be that time. Last week, we took Arielle to the urologist, Dr Cope, for what we thought was a kidney stone. Because she has only one kidney, he scheduled her for emergency surgery the next morning, then sent her to the hospital to have a ct scann and a KUB xray, along with blood work, so he could know the exact location and size of the stone.

Well, there is no stone...but her spleen is enlarged and her white blood cell count is elevated. Dr Cope sent her to see Dr Frame, a doctor of internal medicine. After reviewing her symptoms, he asked her if she has looked any of them up online. When we told him that she had, he asked what she found. She told him "leukemia" and other "scary stuff" and he nodded his head. Then he stepped out to talk to his partner. It all seemed so familiar! UGH!!

He sent us to the hospital lab to get tested for leukemia. They also did a sed rate and ebv panel. And it is going to take a week to get the results...

So here we wait. She keeps having pain and fatigue and weakness. She has called in sick to work and has come home early from work. It is frustrating because she just bought a car and needs to work. What if she loses her job? And then I get frustrated because that is awful for me to be worrying about that...

But, if we get the results and find ourselves on the cancer road, we will be ready and willing to face it and take it, and she will beat it--again.

Get Away, Get Away, Get Away-way

2011-10-02T09:55:00.000-07:00

2 weeks ago I told Dave that I had completed my application for graduation in December, and he decided it was a good reason to celebrate and GET AWAY for a weekend. He told me to go online and find a room at the Anniversary Inn in Salt Lake City and reserve it! I was so excited and have been looking SO forward to it!

I didn't stop to think about how much homework I had, how many tests and papers would be due on the following Monday, or of a few other things that might come up on my calendar, nor did I realize that Arielle would be struggling with a kidney stone this very weekend...I am glad I didn't, because I probably would have decided I couldn't go. Sometimes one just needs to DO IT, regardless...and heavens knows that WE DID need to JUST DO IT!

We have had a really good time doing nothing more than walking around temple square, listening to conference, walking around the Gateway Mall, watching movies, eating too much, and relaxing. I feel reconnected to my husband and to myself. Good feeling.

Here are a few random photos:

We drove to Salt Lake City in my new car! 2007 Nissan Altima. I love it! It is fun to drive, and the gas mileage was amazing compared to what I am used to with my van.

We ran into the Harding family in the Tabernacle on Temple Square. This was during the 2nd session of the semi-annual conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

I loved this sight! So many people gathered on the temple grounds to hear the word of God through his prophets and apostles. This is not counting the thousands who are inside the conference center, tabernacle, and Seagull House. Reminds me of the scripture in Isaiah that talks about multitudes gathering in the mountain tops to hear the word of God.

Just another view of the multitudes!

This is our 2nd room at the Anniversary Inn--the Bridal Veil Falls room. We thought it would be fun to switch rooms so that we could experience more of the fun decor.

We are not used to eating breakfasts like this. Isn't it a gorgeous spread? (taste buds were happy; stomachs a little confused...ha ha)

Here is a view from our first room--the Carriage Suite.
So cute!

Famous Dave's. Enough said...

A Few Notes from the General Relief Society Broadcast

2011-09-25T18:54:00.000-07:00

I have been so ornery today! (I think it is in partly because yesterday I totally indulged in way to many yummy yet deadly foods, all involving white sugar and/or white flour.) But I realize even more strongly that it is due to losing some of the balance that I have been so desperately seeking. Sure, I have been going through the motions, but sometimes (more often than not) I forget the WHYs of what I am doing. Especially when it comes to things of the Spirit (my favorite part of life!)

I just watched the General Relief Society annual broadcast. It was wonderful. Here are just a few of the incredible words that were spoken:

Julie B Beck, Relief Sociey General President

We need to a render more service, sincerely come to know each sister, do the things He would do if He were here, concentrate more on caring about our sisters more than our busy lists of things to do, help people grow spiritually (focusing on visiting teaching, but to me it also means throughout life!)

*************

Silvia H Allred, First Counselor in the General Relief Society Presidency

The first presidency has requested that we study the new Relief Society book "Daughters in My Kingdom" about the history of the Relief Society organization.

We learn that Charity is not a single act or something we give a way, but a way of living. How do we receive charity? Have a sincere desire, pray to be filled with Christ's love, read the scriptures daily to acquaint ourselves with the Savior's charitable examples. Joseph Smith showed charity, and Thomas S Monsen is a perfect example of charity to us today. Charity is having patience with someone who has let us down, refusing to be offended easily, seeing people as they really are, looking past physical appearances. When we serve others with charity, we serve when it is not convenient, not expecting the act to be reciprocated.

Acts of charity soften hearts. Acts of charity are guided by the Savior's examples. Providing charity helps us to overcome our own difficulties and make them seem less challenging.

Joseph Smith said, "If you live up to these principles (of charity,) how great will be your joy in the Lord's Kindgom." (paraphrased...)

All acts of charity have a healing power.

All of us should pray for charity. The Lord will crown our efforts with success.

*************

Barbara Thompson, 2nd Counselor in the General Relief Society Presidency

If ye will cleave unto thy God, the destroyer will have no strength over thee. Retire with prayer and thy heart will be comforted.

The temple endowment brings us out of darkness and into marvelous light.

We covenant to give up all that we are, all that we possess for the Kingdom of God. Great are the blessings we receive when we cleave unto our covenants.

Joy comes from faithfulness in keeping in the commandments of God. Ammon said "How great reason we have to rejoice. My joy is full. Yay, my heart is filled with joy...." as he brought thousands unto Christ.

When members of the church keep their covenants, they feel tremendous joy amid the trials they face. "We know God will guide us and sustain us..."

Temples allow the Lord to pour out His blessings upon His people.

When people sift through our belongings after we have died, will they find evidence that we have kept our covenants?

Keeping our covenants is joy and peace, protection, and joy in times of trial.

*************

Forget Me Not: doesn't attract immediate attention, but has a hounding plea in its name.

5 petals, 5 symbols:

Forget not to be patient and compassionate with yourself. God is fully aware that you and I are not perfect. Neither are the people that you think are perfect. yet we spend so much time and energy comparing ourselves to others, usually comparing our weaknesses to their strengths. It is wonderful that we have strengths and part of God's plan in our mortal existence to have weaknesses. One day, God plans to turn all of our weaknesses into strengths, but we are not there yet. Be patient and compassionate with yourselves. Celebrate the tiny successes and may, like the forget me not, may seem to go unnoticed, but God notices everything.

Forget not the different between a good sacrifice for a foolish sacrifice. Losing a few hours of sleep sitting with a child having a nightmare--good sacrifice. Staying up all night to make an accessory for her sunday dress--foolish sacrifice. :)

Forget not to be happy now. We are often looking for that "golden ticket." One woman lookes so forward to being married. She would be the perfect mother and wife, with lots of children who preferred to spend all of their time with mom and dad. This was her golden ticket. but it never happened. She couldn't understand why God would not grant this righteous desire, and she became bitter. She worked with children at school, but was disliked by them and was often mean to them. This circumstance caused her to miss the opportunity to influence hundreds of children for good as a teacher. If we spend all our days looking for the beautiful bouquet of roses, we may miss the forget me nots. Never stop wishing for all the righteous desires, but don't close your heart to all of the beauty and sweetness of every day moments. Weave a tapestry of gratitude and wonder to be truly happy.

Forget not the WHY of the gospel of Jesus Christ. We sometimes see the gospel as a long list of tasks to add to our already long to-do list. We focus on what and how to do what the Lord wants us to do, but we sometimes forget WHY! The gospel is not an obligation. It is a pathway, marked by our loving Heavenly Father, leading to happiness and peace in this life and glory and inexpressable fulfillment in the life to come. The eternal fire and majesty of the gospel springs from the why. Let us not walk unaware of the beauty of the glorious earthly and spiritual landscapes that surround us. Seek out the exhilarating joy . It will inspire and uplift you! The what and how of obedience marks the way and keeps us on the right path, but the why of obedience sanctifies our actions, transforming the mundane into the majestic. it magnifies our small acts of obedience into holy acts of consecration.

Forget not that Heavenly Father knows, loves, and cherishes you.

We are not forgotten of the Savior! no matter how dark things me seem, how insignificant you may feel, you are known and remembered by the most majestic and powerful being of the Universe. He knows our name. We are the daughters of His Kingdom. We are closer to heaven than we suppose. We are destined for more than we can imagine. Treasure the gift of membership in this glorious and true church. Continue to seek out those who need your help.

Never forget that you are a precious daughter in the Lord's kingdom.

There is something inspiring and sublime about the little forget me not flower. Let it be a symbol of the little things that make your life joyful and sweet.

All Things Happen for a Reason...

2011-09-24T10:52:00.000-07:00

A few months ago I made a commitment to teach a storybooking class at a Family Education Fair for the community ed department at Dixie State College. I enjoy teaching people how to preserve their life stories, so I was actually kind of excited. After having committed, of course, I was forced to turn down some other really great opportunities that just happened to be the same date and time. Among those was a hands-on cooking class taught by my talented friend, Christie Thomas; a first-time-ever weekend storybooking retreat in Provo, sponsored by my Heritage Makers leadership friends; a chance to work a booth at Swiss Days with my team member consultant friend, Jan McConkie; and a chance to go with Dave to hear him speak in Las Vegas...but I stayed true to my commitment and turned all of these down.

This whole week was nutso, so I put off the "getting ready" until the 11th hour (I have the verbage ingrained on my brain, so I wasn't worried) and went to bed late last night. Then, because Arielle and I are still in the car-sharing mode, I had to wake up at 6 am to take her to work so I could have the car. (I cherish Saturday morning sleep in time...just so you know.) So I come home, do a couple of quick morning chores, hop in the shower and get all dressed up (I also cherish Saturday slob moments...,) put on make-up, neglect making breakfast for my boys and their friend who slept over (Saturday is the only day I make breakfast,) and head out the door in time to set up early and breathe...

I hope your feeling the moment as I have set the scene for you...

I arrived at the North Instruction Building, where I was told my class would be held: room 107. Alas, the door is locked. Room 106 has a class in progress, so I figure they must have told me wrong (it has been known to happen,) and I am to use the same room when this class is over. I had a quick thought to run across the street to the registration office to make sure I was correct in my assumption, but I didn't want to leave my computer unattended, nor did I want to haul it across the street, so I sat on the floor in the hallway to wait. But 11:00am grew nearer and I could tell the other class was nowhere near wrapping it up...so I found a group of girls, asked them to guard my stuff, and headed across the street...

My class had been canceled...due to lack of interest...

Well, maybe if they had advertised it as I told them it should be instead of as "scrapbooking," which I was NOT teaching, there would have been interest! OR maybe they could have let me know BEFORE I showed up that I didn't need to go through all the trouble to come and spend a half hour in their hall!

(deep breath...)

All things happen for a reason...

SO! I am going to spend my day at my computer, completing my entire online CIS course. Maybe it was all in the plan...

My Photo Eval...

2011-09-22T22:31:00.000-07:00

Regarding last night's "comparison" post:

I don't notice a whole lot of difference in size. Well, at least POST Isagenix. But I DO notice something: I looked so old! I look at least 10 years younger now than I did 7 years ago. That is so amazing to me, but I guess that is what good nutrition does for you!

Sidebar: I am really excited to see what happens in the aging department now that Isagenix has introduced their useful aging phenomenon, "Product B." You can learn about this incredible scientific breakthrough at www.productbinfo.net or find it on www.isamovie.com

My moral to this story is, focus on the fact that I FEEL better. Take baby steps in adapting my diet while learning yummy ways to eat more veggies. Remember that focusing just on balancing my body is taking the whole me way out of balance...

Whew! Feels better already! :)

What Have I Done?!?!

2011-09-22T22:00:00.001-07:00

5 years ago, we (my husband, Dave, 6 kids and I) moved from a small 1400-square-foot, 3 bedroom home into a 4500-square-foot, 7 bedroom home. The first home had a really great laundry room! I was able to wash, dry, fold, hang, iron, etc in my laundry room, so while I really hate to do laundry, I was able to enjoy it there. The new house has a sorry excuse for a laundry room--Think about it, 7 bedrooms means lots of people, right? Well, at least in Utah where families have lots of kids. You would think a smart architect would design a proportionate laundry room... so anyways...-- There is room for a washer and dryer and a place to stand. That is it. My hate for laundry came flooding back as my kids started throwing their laundry in that room for me to wash.

My solution? Fire myself from laundry duty. Hire kids to do their own. Done! Sounds like the perfect situation, doesn't it? Well, it COULD be if the kids would follow my one laundry room rule: if it isn't in the washer or the dryer, it does NOT belong in the laundry room. But NO! For the past 4 years or so, I have had a tizzy laundry fit at least once a week (certain kids cause more fits than others) when the laundry tornado would hit.

So yesterday, I found a pile of clean wet towels underneath a huge pile of nasty dirty laundry... I immediately made a drastic decision. I am retaking the laundry responsibility and my kids are banned from that room...

I know, you're thinking "but what about your balance journey! Suddenly re-adding 3 teenagers and one 7 year old's laundry (2 have moved away since we moved in) back into my already nutso schedule has to throw you out of balance, right?

Well, yes and no. Right now I am realizing that it is about balance in how I feel. I need to balance the amount of time I feel like Cruella with the amount of time that I actually feel like a nice-ish mother. I decided that my hate for laundry room invasion is way stronger than my hate for actually doing the laundry...

So here are the new rules:

No kids allowed in the laundry room except to take your clean clothes that I have carefully hung down to your bedroom.

You have a special day each week that I will do your laundry. If I come to your room to gather the dirty clothes, and they are on the floor instead of the basket, you forfeit your week and will wear dirty clothes (or figure something else out) until your day comes back around.

You will put your clean clothes AWAY! No exceptions.

How do I enforce this, you ask? GOOD QUESTION!!! But I am determined and it's going to work. I am slowly retaking my house...(notice I said slowly).

Wish me luck!

Comparison

2011-09-21T21:54:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking a lot today about my whole body balance journey and how I am letting it create-- unbalance? imbalance?--yes, imbalance in the rest of my life. I still feel frustrated, and it's not just because of weight (just to get myself out of the shallow category...ha ha) but because of confusion! I still credit my thyroid/hormones with a lot of the physical and emotional imbalance here, but that is not my point....

I decided today that I am going to find photos of myself over the past 7 years to see if I have changed or have indeed remained the same after all of my struggles... I am scared to post them for ya'all, but I'm gonna...let's compare, shall we?

This was pre-Isagenix. About 2005

I believe this was shortly after Isagenix...I think there is a slight difference...

Heritage Makers TAC Cruise, 2006. About 7 months after starting Isagenix.

*So much fun, I might add*

Also TAC 2006

Nashville, Summer 2006.

Family Photos, Fall 2006

HM TAC 2008

TAC, January 2009

NYC, Summer 2009

HM Reunion 2009

Summer 2010

HM Reunion, August 2011

Also HM Reunion 2011

TONIGHT! After 30 days of the strictest I've been with my eating...

I don't know...other than this seems silly. :)

But Dave just told me that he heard coconut oil helps people with thyroid weight issues...is it worth a shot? (I'm hopeless! ha ha)

Happiness is Definitely Balancing!

2011-09-20T22:16:00.001-07:00

And here is something that makes me very happy!

And so does THIS! (You may recogize one of the lines as one of my recent titles. (Prizes for the correct guess as to which one...)

Drastic Change Calls For Drastic Measures

2011-09-20T21:56:00.000-07:00

Question is, how drastic do I want to be?

Am I willing to avoid all dairy, wheat, and sugar; make sure my protein is grass fed (which isagenix is, thank goodness;) produce is organic; monitoring my workouts so that my heartrate only reaches between 130-140 for 12 weeks (no more crossfit?)...

...And will it work?

If I went from eating cocoa puffs for breakfast, corn dogs and tater tots or ramen for lunch, however much sugar I wanted, and whatever else for dinner with hardly any exercise--to isagenix shakes for breakfast, starting to crave better but not perfect food, pretty much still eating what I want (only wanting better food for the most part) while discovering crossfit and getting strong--to watching everything I eat, buying as much as I can at a natural grocer, restricting probably 90% of all sugar and processed foods--without a change in my weight or pants size (I can't deny the shape change, though. I know my fat % has decreased, albeit slightly)...

... will one more step really make a difference? Will it be worth it? How long until I can tell if it's working?

Inquiring minds want to know...

Look At Our New Basement!!!

2011-09-19T22:55:00.000-07:00

Ok, I know I said I was going to bed, but I have to show off really quick!

All summer long I have really been wanting to make our basement fun instead of furniture-less and boring. Dave was afraid that if I painted it, it would be ugly...but this past weekend, he painted--AND HOW!

We went to Boulevard Home Furnishings Saturday morning and found theater seating, a sound system, bean bags, and even some inexpensive clearance furniture for the other empty living room/wanna-be-fun room (after convincing Dave that having an ugly room on the way to the theater room was not my idea of a home-y home.) :)

Here are some pics! It is not quite finished--the theater seating will be delivered later this week, the other room will be painted, and other minor odds and ends--but it is so exciting! My kids all "sluffed school" so they could be here when the furniture came!

It's purple!!! I love it! The couch will go where the bean bags are...and the bean bags will roam the room, I'm sure...

I think the posters are my favorite, and the curtains hanging on the wall. We will paint one side of the hallway the same color and hang a few more posters.

I love the way this looks!!!! I will add colorful accent pillows and fun posters on the wall.

It is just how I imagined it would be!

An Answer to My Rant...

2011-09-19T22:40:00.000-07:00

I forgot that I had emailed a question about my weight loss/thyroid frustration to my women to women program "coach," but when I checked my email this morning, this is what I found:

Dear Cary,
Thank you for writing in to us. It sounds like the weight issue is
important to you. Our Program is not a weight loss plan like others.
You will lose weight when your body starts to feel balance and
wellness. If you can, shift your focus away from the weight and focus
more on self care. Find balance in your foods and your lifestyle. As
much as we do not want to hear this-this has to come first! Other
weight loss plans focus on causing your body to lose weight and most
of the time it cannot last, because we have not addressed the very
reason the weight is there or why it will not come off. To learn more
about our views on achieving a healthy weight, please follow the link
below:
http://www.womentowomen.com/healthyweight/default.aspx

So when I clicked on the link, this is what it said:

"As much as my patients know they should eat well, the concern that looms largest for many is their weight. Whatever their age and station, most women care deeply about what they look like. As a consequence, they battle with their weight, adopting any number of extreme unhealthy patterns over the course of their lifetimes to keep things “in check.”

"The truth is that when your weight changes dramatically from what’s normal for you, or when it’s continually moving up or down no matter what you do to try to change it, it’s often a signal that something isn’t working right. It can be a red flag telling you you’re under physical or emotional stress of some kind (really?) — stress you might not even recognize! It could be something as simple as having too little time to eat regular meals, or it could be years of small imbalances piling up in your body until some added stress puts you over the top — it’s different for everyone.

"From my point of view, whether a woman is overweight or underweight, the first thing she can do for herself is befriend her body. Women are often too critical of the weight level that their bodies find most comfortable. Whether you look in the mirror and see yourself as “too much” or “too little,” obsessing about the extra curves (or the lack of them) is a major obstacle to finding your healthy weight.

"The next hurdle to overcome is the “calories-in, calories-out” myth. Women who struggle with issues of unexpected weight change (whether it’s gain or loss) may intuitively know that something is out of balance in their bodies, but may not “hear” what her body is telling her over the social messages we get all the time. These messages tell us, If you’re gaining weight, it’s because you’re not trying hard enough to control yourself or If you’re that thin, you must have some kind of eating disorder (even as women who are every bit as thin are celebrated for their beauty on magazine covers).

"For some women, stress and imbalance mean weight gain. Our bodies often hold extra weight when something is wrong — it’s a built-in protection that we evolved to ensure survival. Among our ancient ancestors, long-term stress was often related to scarcity of good food, so the body’s response of storing energy as fat could be life-saving. In the modern world, survival isn’t usually the issue, but our bodies still react as if it is. Ironically, this “life preserver” can, over the long run, threaten our health — we’ve all heard the long litany of diseases related to excess weight...

"...Whether your goal is to lose weight or gain it, a key starting point is to recognize where your life and health are out of balance. Once you find and heal your core imbalance, your body weight will stabilize at the level that is comfortable for your body.

"The happy news for many women is that achieving a natural and healthy weight is not about restricting yourself or testing your willpower. It’s about addressing any imbalances and giving your body what it needs: fresh, whole foods, plenty of restorative exercise and rest, and the foundational support of quality vitamins and minerals. Our patients and Personal Program Members tell us this approach beats any weight loss program or weight loss plan they’ve tried in the past.

"Take a look at the information we have on achieving your healthy weight, naturally. We hope your perspective on “dieting” — and eating in general — changes for the better."

Well, everything seems to be pointing to stress relief as my number one goal. :/ Today I wore a heart moniter to my workout. Yes, my heart rate did exceed the 125-135 range that Mike told me to maintain...I talk to him tomorrow, so we'll see how that goes!

And now, I must go to bed, even though I have an assignment due TONIGHT that I remembered TONIGHT. I am almost finished, but I am tired and not thinking straight. This article says I should sleep, so off to bed I go! :)

Mekenze's New Place!

2011-09-18T21:26:00.001-07:00

Isn't there something liberating about your first apartment? Add that to first real job, first car payment, first time really being responsible for every aspect of your life...am I bringing feelings of nostalgia to anyone? Yes, I know it is stressful and scary, but in hindsight, it was a wonderful time in my life!

Mekenze recently moved to Anaheim, California, to follow her dreams. She is finding that those dreams may actually be changing as she discovers that the world is a really big place. She quickly found a job at Knott's Berry Farm: Camp Snoopy. She has made great friends, gotten to know and love her paternal grandparents better than she ever has. She has also decided that she really loves Isagenix and the freedom power of network marketing, so she is joining her dad and starting her own Isa-business. She is very excited and says that she is feeling alive and passionate about life again. I'm so happy for her!

As much as she loved the hospitality of cute Grandma and Grandpa Mac Arthur, she really felt a pull to find a place of her own. She found a group of girls in her singles' ward who were looking for a roommate, and she moved in yesterday. She sent a few photos:

Arielle Is Home

2011-09-18T21:09:00.000-07:00

Well, she gave it a go.

After spending just over 3 weeks in Minnesota, living her would be "dream life," she decided that the experiences she was having weren't worth going $20,000/semester in debt. We gave her some stupulations to coming home: no sleeping in and lounging around all day, no taking the car without arranging schedules with others who need it (we are sharing a car until the van's transmission gets fixed.) In fact she must get a job or two ASAP and buy a car to hold her to keeping her job, AND she needs to take a class. (She has chosen institute, which is a good choice!)

She came home just in time to surprise her boyfriend for his birthday. She arranged a really cute way to suprise him. Their fun group of friends took him to dinner at Olive Garden. She came in after they were already there and introduced herself to the waiters who were going to take him a birthday cake. She held the cake and stood behind him while they told him that there was a special guest there to sing him happy birthday. They both said that what happened from there was a "blur," but he felt like she would somehow show up for his birthday. The story all sounds really cute, and I wanted to be there to watch, but I promised Arielle I wouldn't be the annoying mom. :) This is where I should post pics, but alas, I have none. She says that many were taken, so if I get them, I will definitely add them!

"And they call it...Puppy Love!"

I Know It's Called Balance, but What Else Is About It?

2011-09-18T18:38:00.000-07:00

What a week! I don't even know where to begin...it has been full of ups and downs, many of those downs coming from within myself. Makes me wonder if all this balance talk has just been superficial to this point. I'm not saying that's a bad thing. It has to start somewhere.

I have continued to follow my new eating plan, and for the most part am feeling quite successful and am enjoying it. (Becoming less attached to food and such) I feel like it combines a lot of what I have "learned" about nutrition, things that almost seemed conflicting, and put them together in a way that makes sense to me. I am "eating more"--6 small meals that add up to about 1600 calories, consisting of lots of vegetables, some fruits, proteins and fats, without much sugar. (Preferrably no sugar, but I do take a taste now and then, mostly on the weekends, and nowhere NEAR what I used to consume.) I have followed it for about 30 days now, along with adding new exercise routines to the cross fitness training that I have grown to love. I think my body needs new movements and more cardio, so I actually took the plunge and went to ZUMBA!! I have only been twice, and while I can honestly say that "my body does not DO THAT," I can also honestly say that I have enjoyed it. I am also doing some yoga routines in the mornings to hopefully will help my knee.

Which leads me to my first frustration: my knee. I somehow tweaked it 2-ish years ago (I guess it's a tight IT band, without proper stretching, etc,) and I ignored it for too long. I have had to cut back on some of my workouts--my favorites are squats and box jumps, and I have had to really modify them--and sometimes even just walking really hurts. I thought it was healing, but the first night at zumba really left me hurting. I think it actually hurt more than it ever has! I let myself be affected emotionally by it because I am actively working on getting past this "plateau" I'm on, feeling like pushing myself physically again, and here is the "obstacle." (I know, whaaaaa! huh?)

Second frustration came Wednesday...I probably can't even explain it to the caliber that I felt it. In my mind it all made perfect sense. In words, it probably sounds quite ridiculous...but...

Small preface, since I can't remember if I have posted anything about my thyroid: I have been on hypothyroid medication for almost 16 years, and I have done fairly well with it, though weight loss has been a struggle. I started seeing some results, first with Isagenix (which I LOVE and will never stop)and then with crossfit (which will also probably be a forever thing for me,) and then it came to a halt. I went up and down with nutrition commitments, all with the same results--NOTHING. I had learned to be "fine" with it, but then I started GAINING! at rapid pace! I'm talking 12 lbs in 10 days. That was not ok with me! Not only was their weight gain, but I was just feeling "off" in all areas of my life. That is when I started this blog theme and this permanent life change called "balance."

OK, that being said, I kind of took my thyroid into my own hands, using a doctor as an authority to figure out and write prescriptions for the right meds and the right dosages. My long-time doc was frustrating me, so I went to a gynocologist until he admitted he couldn't make sense of what my thryoid was doing and referred me to an endocrinologist. FINALLY the endocrinologist called me, and I made an appointment. I tried not to be excited to finally talk to someone who would KNOW what was going on, but I couldn't help it. I went prepared to show him what I had been doing to help myself, including exercise, vitamins (especially Isagenix's new "Product B,")and cleaner eating, and I basically wanted him to help me see if there was something missing and to monitor my progress through the proper blood tests, etc. Well, he was a jerk! (I have always disliked specialists because of their know-it-all attitude--I know that is a hasty generalization--but this guy proved my dslike theory to the T!) He wouldn't even look at me, let alone listen to me, and proceeded to tell me that I need to eat less and exercise harder. HE HAS NO IDEA!!! I have been working harder and eating better than I ever have in my life, but for some reason I'm having opposite results! I began to cry, right in his office, and I cried harder when I handed my debit card to the cashier to pay $200 for NOTHING! I know. It sounds ridiculous, but that is how I felt...

Now for the resolution: I texted Dave and told him how mad I was. He called his friend, Mike Lantz, who has coached several people past their plateaus using Isagenix and the knowledge he has gleaned as he has become an Iron Man (competing in 8 or 9 of them so far.) I was almost going to refuse because "I'm tired of getting my hopes up" and every other excuse in the book, but then I remembered that I am on a personal growth journey; I chose to be a good girl and go along. And you know what? I felt peace after talking to him for the first time--probably because he LISTENED to me--and I'm going to find a solution. I just know it!

Needless to say, I am turning more and more toward Isagenix as a product and as a people and less toward to the medical field. I know there are SEVERAL doctors who are good at what they do and who still listen to people. I believe medicine as a science is a blessing from heaven. It has a very important place in our world, but for now I am looking elsewhere.

For my knee, I finally got a supply of the Isagenix joint support vitamins and cream, and I am going to use it as I learned at convention...watch with me as I rely soley on what this amazing company and its knowlegable field has discovered. **keeping my fingers crossed**

What does this have to do with balance? I don't know, other than that I am going to find it.

PS: After I calmed down and came back to my senses on Wednesday, I remembered that Madyson had talked me into frozen yogurt the evening before...so I am little curious as to whether the sugar in the yogurt caused me to frenzy like I did. This is something else I am going to pay attention to...

Balance? or Losing Balance? That is the Question!

2011-09-11T14:32:00.000-07:00

I don't know if Labor Day started it off, but this week had the appearance of balanced but the feeling of frazzle to the point of declaring Saturday "I'm not the Mom" day. :) Yes, I speak in the extreme, but some moments feel extreme, don't they?

Can I blame my kids? Either someone forgot to tell them that I am on a balance journey, or they chose not to listen. Labor Day weekend turned into a sleepover marathon...one friend slept over both Saturday and Sunday night out of necessity, so the other friend(s) should have to sleep over to be fair, right? So, jobs were done, tho quickly, but the house was forever chaotic. Don't get me wrong; I enjoy having my kids' friends over, and these particular friends are very enjoyable, but too many movies after midnight in the backyard with a projector can make for a too many sleepless nights.

So maybe it was the lack of sleep that helped me NOT include my kids in the "plan" the way I should have done. I feel like I was FOREVER in the car, running back and forth on the same road because when one person was supposed to be somewhere, the other wasn't ready to go yet, although she needed to be somewhere in that same vicinity within the same half hour. Why did I not insist (or "persist to insist" might be the better way to word it?) Your guess is as good as mine. I repeated the question aloud to myself over and over as I made umpteen trips. I ENJOY taking my kids to their extracurriculars, and I INSIST that they have something to be passionate about, but when appreciation is replaced by expectation, I become irritated. I'm sure the expectation comes from my "give-in-ability," and I find myself kicking myself to the curb over it. By the time Dave got home, I was so frazzled and ornery, with no desire to step into a car, but of course there was taking to and from the Friday-night-fun because apparently no other kids have parents who can drive. (I'm typing as my ornery-warped mind was thinking at the time...kinda sounds ridiculous now.) Needless to say, I declared Saturday "I'm not the Mom Day" and refused to drive anyone anywhere. I thought would lock myself in my office and do homework/storybooking/scanning all day, but instead I hung out with Dave. We went to gym, went to dinner, watched a movie...and it was just what the doctor ordered. I felt "Cruella" relax back into "Me" again.

This lesson on balance could then be called, "Balance between Cruella and...um...I'm sure there is a Disney character out there who overindulges her children..."OR it could be called "Explaining the Balance Plan to Your Children BEFORE You Go Off-Balance!"

In the health and fitness world, I thought I did quite well. I recorded yoga and aerobics (Gilad Janklowitz--love him!) on my DVR so that I could have something to "switch it up" on the days that I can't go to crossfit. I feel like my body needs different movements, something a little more "graceful," (and I use that term lightly) mixed into the heavy lifting and anaerobic "power moves" (also used lightly) of crossfit. (I am hoping that this--especially the yoga--will help the muscles around my knee loosen up and I can overcome my IT band knee issues.) AND I went to zumba with my cousin Tawsha. Yes, I did it, AND I enjoyed it! My hips don't move like that, I looked like a fool, and my knee didn't like me so much for a day or two afterwards, but I am sure I will go again. My nutrition plan is getting easier, and I kinda-sorta think I might be noticing a slight change in my body shape. I don't quite dare say it out loud yet for fear of jinxing it, so shhhh...but... fingers are crossed.

One more thing: I have always KNOWN, but it has been reaffirmed to me through my college-aged kids, that the most important element in staying balanced is CHURCH! More specifically, the gospel. Making sure that we are staying connected to heaven through scripture study, weekly church meetings, prayer, partaking of the Sacrament, living the commandments, etc brings peace to our lives. I, for one, can feel the immediate difference if I miss a week of church. One of my daughters is having a hard time finding transportation to church in the city where she lives, and the burdens of life are wearing on her. I am praying that she can find a way soon! I know she will find relief...)

How Much "Me Time" Am I Allowed to Have?

2011-09-08T13:58:00.000-07:00

Or what is "me time," really?

Today I need to look at balance from a different angle. I had someone ask me a question today that really got me thinking. To paraphrase, she was wondering when the last time I did anything for me...

So here go my thoughts; they may make no sense. In fact, I know they won't because I am all confused right now, which is why I am taking "me time" to blog instead of clean my house or do homework or make HM phone calls or flyers or....and which of those are really "want to's" and which are "have to's"? See what I mean? I WANT to go to school, but do I really want to neglect my house--because I WANT a clean house--to do homework? Do I really WANT a clean house? or is that a family need that turns my "want to" into a "have to"? And I really want to get A's in school, but would I rather stay home all weekend and finish CIS modules so I can have more time to focus on the more important classes, like Math and English, or go to Ephraim to hear Due West and The Nashville Tribute Band perform their new album "The Work"? Or neglect both of those and just hang out with my husband who has been gone all week (and pretty much every week)? or play Cruella-Mom so that my kids will learn discipline and how to work hard and my house will be clean...

I could keep going...I want to look and feel good, so I guess that means I want to workout and eat healthy food, but what if what I really want is to go order a large concrete at Nielson's Frozen Custard and eat it slowly as I start off into oblivion? Or better yet, eat coconut gelato as I walk the Champs-Elysses (please mentally insert the accents where they go because I'm not sure how to do it, and I don't really want to look it up right now, but I really do want to be fluent in French and come across as someone who is fluent, but do I really want to sit at my computer with my Rosetta Stone and study it until I have it perfectly mastered?) Do I want to work HM? or Isagenix? or both? and the questions go on and on in my head.

The answer to all of these is YES!!!! For most things I do in life, I WANT to but I also HAVE to do them. But who in the world has all the time in the world to do it all? And is there ever a time that it is OK to actually separate the two and just do something for the WANT of it? And is that even possible? Cuz really, right now I am not even sure what those kinds of wants would be...

Whew...glad I got that off my chest! Now I can go and ... um ... who even knows?

Arielle is in Minnesota

2011-09-04T13:41:00.000-07:00

Arielle decided that she was too anxious to get started with her new life to wait at home anymore, so she arranged to stay with a new found facebook friend/classmate until she could move into her dorm at McNally Smith College of Music in St. Paul, Minnesota. Here she is in the bedroom this friend's family kindly let her stay in with her bear, Limey, that was given as a gift from one of her best St. George friends, Juno.

And here is her new cuddle buddy that she hung with while her friend and her family were at work during the day. She loves and is allergic to cats...

I should have more photos of this event, but I don't-- for lack of them being sent and also because I guess not all of them saved on my phone--but this is the text I got on move in day, saying "Guess which one is my floor?" Yep! That's right! The "Party" floor!

Her roommate still hasn't arrived and school doesn't start for another week, so now what to do besides send silly photos...

... and drink chai lattes? or whatever they are called...

I think she is having a good time, but I also think she is missing home. She has written some awesome songs in her "spare time." :) School starts soon...

Balance--Week #2

2011-09-04T12:26:00.001-07:00

Wouldn't it be nice if a truly balanced life meant that all things went smoothly? Every activity, every responsibility, every challenge, every desire would come in a perfectly organized format so that it could fit sweetly according to schedule. I have learned (or relearned or maybe have come to accept) this week that true balance often comes from wreacking total havoc and then figuring out how to bring it all back into a balance of sorts, only in the stronger sense of the word.

Examples...let's start with school. I am enrolled in 4 classes (11 credits) this semester so as to FINALLY complete my associates' degree, with hopes of moving on to the "bigger and better" bachelors'. Two of these classes are institution-required busy work--LIB1010 (library) and CIS1200 (computers.) I had to decide whether to prolong the balance for 16 weeks of adding this busy work into my already cram-packed life, or tip the scale a little bit and get one of those classes out of my way. I chose the latter and worked all Saturday--the entire Saturday of not much else but listening to modules and taking quizzes--until I completed my entire LIB course!!! Woohoo! I guess I just have to take a final quiz now...but I am inspired now to do the same with CIS. My brain feels so much less congested now just knowing that I don't have to worry about it anymore!

Example #2...Diet (or "my step forward to a healthier lifestyle," as "Diet" is a bad word.) I have been almost religious in sticking to the Women to Women meal plans that I explained in my last post. I am actually enjoying having someone else tell me what to eat and trying new foods, although I will admit that this week has been a little harder for me. I'm not sure if it's because there were more "strange" choices this week than last week, or if it because I wasn't able to grocery shop until later in the week so I had to juggle days a little bit, or because I have been coming into the homestretch of PMS time, but some days were harder to conform to than others. (Let's say nothing about the amazing homemade donuts that my visting teacher brought that I could not just let pass ungratefully by ...I enjoyed only one, and I DO NOT regret one bite!) And then I read a tweet from a friend that said she had lost over 5 pounds, in I swear it was one day, because she was "eating clean and exercising." GRRRR! I let myself become frustrated because I have hardly seen any change in my body composition or in my weight in 2+ weeks! I then allowed myself to "binge" (well, this was a very mild form or binging if you were to compare it to binges of my previous life.) I went to dinner with Dave (which, remember, I had allowed as part of my total balance goal) and then we went to Orange Peel and a movie. In my rebellion, I had a (vegan) macadamia nut cookie, a large avocado and coconut bubble tea, and a fair amount of popcorn. I didn't even feel remorse...until I realized that I felt SICK! Ugh, rapid weight loss or not, I remember now how much better I FEEL when I eat (mostly) clean. So, the moral of this balance story is to remember WHY I am doing things. Yes, stubborn fat loss is an ultimate goal, but feeling good is a much bigger part of that goal. I must add that feeling good emotionally--by feeling good about ME as I AM--is just as important as feeling good physically. That is true balance.

Example #3...Business(es): I have had this 5 year quandry of having two amazing business opportunities in my life. How the heck to you balance that? I believe in BOTH companies so much! They are totally unrelated, and because I think I am superwoman, I have thought on several occasions that I would work both of them without a conflict of interest. I didn't include MY TIME in that "lack of conflict." It is a huge conflict regarding time. I have to admit, I still struggle in this area of balance. For the most part, I have let my husband run the Isagenix business (at which he is incredible) while I vascilate between powerhousing and piddling around with Heritage Makers. This Heritage Makers teeter totter is not from lack of confidence in the company, but maybe more from lack of confidence in myself or even lack of conviction in what I am really supposed to do. My family is really my number one priority--both companies support family. One would argue, and I see the point, that working either business actually helps my family! Forget the amazing health that Isagenix promotes or the self esteem and powerful family connection that Heritage Makers offers; the financial benefits alone will bring freedom and opportunity to my family in a way that nothing else could! But with both parents pursuing success in business, what does that do for the spiritual bond or the day-to-day functionality of my family? MANY can and do make it work, and I don't doubt that I can as well, but first I need to reconnect to that balance...hence the purpose of this Balance Project!

SO, long story made not quite so long (leaving out the fact that Mekenze has decided to work isagenix and a few other recent experiences with both companies,) I have strong feelings that I am supposed to be involved in both--at least for now. I have decided that in order to really know which is the right path for me, I will do "one thing HM" and "one thing ISA" every day. Maybe I am to remain "slow and steady" in both areas for now, so as to actually reach a balanced life...who knows? All I know is that I will continue as I am until I feel prompted to make a change. I have been able to keep my house clean(er) again, so that, to me, is a good sign!

PS--on the enjoyment side of things, I had a really great voice lesson Friday. I will have to make it another post of its own someday soon. I also found a yoga program on TV that I recorded and have added yoga to my workout routine. Someday I will add zumba too, just to say that I overcame that fear...I'll keep ya posted!

Operation "Life Balance"--week one

2011-08-28T13:46:00.001-07:00

It has been one full week of following the new diet/life routine. I had been slowly studying and implementing little things for about 3 weeks previous, but I finally felt that life was in a place that I could "really start."

Diet: I am usually one to balk at anyone suggesting a specific diet for me to follow. It is restrictive, boring, and usually so weird! but this one from my Core Balance/hormone balancing program is actually fairly easy to follow, with lots of yummy recipes. I'll admit there have been a couple of things I didn't want to try--fish and kalamata olives, for example; the fish was just ok ( I survived) but I enjoyed the olives!--and one that I won't try--lamb chops. The fact that I am alone most of the day, with kids in school and Dave out of town, makes it a lot easier than it would be if I had to either convice my family to eat as I am or make two of every meal.

I have added or changed a couple of things: I am subsituting one of my suggested snacks with at least one Isalean Shake, and instead of the vitamins that Women to Women sent, I am sticking with the Isagenix Daily Essentials because they are very similar--pharmaceutical grade, same vitamins with minor doseage difference--and I know that they make a difference for me. (I gave the others to my daughter to try) I do take the hormone balancer from Women to Women, however, and I can really feel the positive effects of that.

So far, I think I am feeling better. The hardest part for me right now is keeping on a good schedule. Some days I am everywhere except home, so it's hard to prepare and eat a meal at a scheduled time. I haven't been tempted much (except for today, which I will talk about later.)

Routine: School could not have started at a better time! A new school year has a way of bringing freshness to life routines. I am taking more classes than I ever have as a "mom who goes to college," and finding an organized routine is scary to me, tho I know it is the ever most important part of making this work. I felt more calm about this at the beginning of the week than I do now, after starting the online portion of my schedule. There is a lot of homework! Throw in exercise, housework, after-school kid chauffeuring, church calling, two home based businesses...(after attending both conventions this month, I decided that I need to at least try my hand at Isagenix but I can't let go of Heritage Makers. I believe strongly in both companines!) This part of balancing will definitely be a work in progress for me. For now I plan to just do one thing each day toward each thing...as long as I keep going forward, I won't fall backward, right?

Sleep, Relaxation and Enjoyment: I am exhausted enough at the end of the day that I have been able to get to bed before midnight. That is an improvement! School for me is enjoyable, so I consider that part of my enjoyment journey, but because it also adds stress, I need to keep my perspective with it. I also am taking a voice lesson to add to my enjoyment. This is something I look forward to once every two weeks. :) I have started a list of to-do's in this area, too. Taking some kind of dance class, whether it's zumba or whatever, is on that list. Scares me to death, but someday I will do it.

Family Balance: It's easy for me to become self absorbed in a personal journey and isolate myself from family. One thing I noticed is that when Dave comes home it is easier to 'give in" on my routine, and especially my diet, so I have decided that I will stick to it the best I can but allow myself balance in this regard as well. I ate popcorn at the movie last night...and a donut today because the neighbor brought them and I decided to join the kids.) Balance in ALL THINGS, right? ;)

I have so many thoughts all week long that I tell myself to remember to blog about, but of course I can't remember them now. I will make it a point to either make notes or blog more often. I hope my thoughts make sense. :)

I feel like it has been a successful first week! I have a long way to go...

Operation "Life Balance"-getting started

2011-08-28T12:41:00.000-07:00

After going through a few months of just not feeling good--mentally, physically, or emotionally--I have decided to do something about it!

The first step was to figure out what was going on with my thyroid. I have taken thyroid meds for 15 years and have been fine! But I think it was May when I started feeling depressed, having extreme fatigue, gaining weight (10 lbs in 12 DAYS. NOT okay!) The only thing I had changed was that I was taking Isagenix' new "PRODUCT B" (which I will explain later.) Long story short, I am still in experimental mode with my meds and am kind of frustrated with doctors in general. I turned to researching natural thyroid support and found a website called Women to Women (www.womentowomen.com) which specializes in helping women with hormones and thyroid and similar issues.

I started a 90 day program with them, which not only includes diet and vitamins, but also life balance. SLEEP is very important, I am learning (I have heard this, but have been too stubborn to really believe it, cuz less sleep means more accomplished, right?) as well as meditation, relaxation, finding ways to enjoy life...all of these need to be a part of a balanced and healthy life. Easier said than done, but I'm going to give it a shot. I NEED TO, and my family needs me to as well.

I will keep you posted with a weekly (minimum) report. If you have any comments or suggestions, feel free to share. I can use all the help I can get! Maybe we can help each other...?

Families are Forever

2011-04-03T13:50:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we wonder, when caught up in the "hardness" of family life, if there is real truth in this statement. Or at least I do. When the choices of those we love most seem to conflict with every idea of happiness, we can also wonder if we even want them to be forever...

...but as I take the time to just sit back and really see the people I call family, the people to whom I give every piece of my heart, as I observe the true greatness of the people that I am lucky enough to call "mine," as I hear (or feel) their testimonies, as I am brought to tears by their talents and passions and ambitions, as I am touched by their random acts of kindness... I feel my understanding expand and my spiritual eyes see family as it really is.

Several talks today from LDS General Conference (semiannual conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints) have mentioned that challenges bring us closer to where we really want to be. Perhaps that is why being a part of and raising a family is the most difficult thing I have ever done.

Heavenly Father and Mother know ultimate happiness. They experience joy in such measures that we don't yet comprehend. They want to share it with us, so they give us families...

Habits

2011-03-27T11:37:00.001-07:00

I heard someone say awhile back of a study that shows that LDS youth are more grounded and more apt to live their religion, and they concluded, without going into all the details, that much of this can be attributed to the habits that LDS families help their children and youth to form: going to church, saying prayers, scripture study, etc. Even if a child has not yet fully developed his or her testimony, they are more apt to live the teachings of the gospel because of the habits they have formed until they do eventually develop and strengthen a belief (testimony) that verifies that the habits and practices they were taught are indeed true principles.

Hearing of this study and its conclusion deepened my love and gratitude for the family unit and helped me feel that I have done better as a mother that I sometimes let myself believe.

Today I was given a deeper gratitude for habit and am here to testify that habits are not only good foundations for our youth but for all of us we weather the storms of life. I know I have relied intensely on habit these past few years and months as the perfect glass house that I lived in was shattered. Habit helped me to continue to live the principles of the gospel when all else was confused around me, and because I continued to live the true principles, I am finding my way back to strength and an even firmer testimony that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is TRUE! That Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world. That He suffered so we don't have to. He died that we might live again with God. I know this with all of my heart. It gives my life purpose...

Spring Break RV

2011-03-20T14:38:00.000-07:00

When Dave started to realize that life in the US is changing and that the US dollar as we know it is kinda heading for "heck in a handbasket," he became really focused on food storage and survival. Those of you who know Dave at all know that when he focuses on something, it gets done in a jiffy. Well, part of his plan was to purchase an RV so that if we needed to "flee" for any reason, or just have a roof over our heads, we would have just that. He found a really great priced RV and bought it.

That is a preface to our Spring Break 2011 trip:

Since the RV purchase, he has been dying to try it out. When he learned that Curtis had a rugby game in Orem during spring break weekend, THAT was our chance to give it a go!

It was really surreal to me...for some reason. But it was really fun being able to sleep, prepare food, play games, give massages...all while driving!

We left our home at 10:30 pm and drove until Dave was too tired to drive (about Fillmore) and slept at a truck stop. When he felt rested, he got dressed, brushed his teeth, etc and drove on while the rest of us got ready, ate breakfast...you get the idea. It was crazy!

Our first stop: Hogle Zoo! It was a little chilly, but not too bad, and we spent a good 3 hours looking at the animals. I never realized how entertaining elephants could be. :)

Next stop, the mall so Arielle could buy an outfit for the Senior Pictures that Aunt Davi of Sophia Shay Photography was fixin to take. Forever 21 is Arielle's addiction...she chose well and the pics turned out "A.Maze!" (Mady had some taken, too, in her pointe shoes...)

While the master was at work creating beautiful images of my beautiful girls, the boys and I wandered around Wheeler Farm. Dave dreamed of what it would be like to live on a farm...

Training Table came next. Oh, the sinful indulgences...sometimes you just gotta!

We parked the RV in Davi's driveway and stayed at her house the next night. We stayed up til 2 am playing Just Dance 2 (or watching), holding cute babies, and eating caramel popcorn.

And finally, the rugby game...it was cold! But it's always fun to watch Curtis play...

All in all, a fun trip!

2011-03-02T14:30:00.000-08:00

I found an awesome template in the Heritage Makers template gallery that is such a helpful way to document my family's life for a whole year! It's called 53 Fridays...check it out and tell me what you think:

Other Random 2010 Happenings...

2011-03-02T12:23:00.000-08:00

Random order--kinda the way our life is! ha ha

Curtis turned 15! Learner's permit...oh no!

Christmas morning breakfast. Bacon, eggs, hasbrowns, and baked french toast--

on new dishes, no less!

New jammies! And Mekenze is home!

Curtis got a Barnes and Noble card for Christmas, with which he bought a sushi kit and proceeded to make Califormia rolls...they were actually good, and he was in heaven!

Tim, Roberta, and family came for Christmas and stayed a few days at our house. This is Bradi and Jayden...cute!

Karter enjoyed setting up the Nativity. Best part of Christmas.

Madyson's Christmas orchestra concert.

Karter's birthday party at Jumpin Jax. Crazy fun time.

Halloween Haunt at Knottsberry Farm. A first for us--Dave has always wanted us to go ans share in this memory with him. It was really fun.

Karter makes a really scary zombie!

We visited Grand Canyon for the first time ever. It was so pretty!

We want to go again and hike down in...

2011-03-02T12:15:00.000-08:00

The day after Thanksgiving was a Lindstrom Family reunion in Las Vegas.

It has been a long time since we saw some of these people. It was good to see everyone again!

It was always Arielle's birthday, so after the lunch meeting at the park, the kids went shopping at the mall while Dave and I did some Christmas shopping. Is that a fun birthday party?

2011-03-02T11:33:00.000-08:00

The Mac Arthur family had Thanksgiving at our house in 2010.

It's not often that the Mac Fam is able to get so many people together at one time.

We made gingerbread houses after dinner. With Grandma Gayle's magic royal frosting, the graham crackers held together really well. The kids (and kids at heart) had some really creative ways to decorate and personalize them. Fun times!

Madyson and Arieall working hard!

The dinner table was decorated nicely,

thanks to the kids and cute plates and napkins from Grandma.

Isn't this an awesome family photo?

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

This is a test...

2011-03-02T10:47:00.000-08:00

I tried to publish a post at the first of the year but I kept getting errors and then my computer crashed--twice (long story)--so I'm finally ready to try again.

But before I pour my heart out and spend forever getting it just right, I'm doing this little tester...and adding a photo...to make sure it works!

Here goes!

And this is a cute photo, don't you think?

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

Renewed

2011-01-08T08:15:00.000-08:00

Really? I haven't blogged more than once about my so called passions? I have been doing some "forced" re-evaluation of my life, and yes, I still feel passionate about all 3 of these areas. Maybe more defined, maybe from a different angle, but yes. Passionate is still a good descriptive word...and I may have to add a few more passions to the list!

Looking at Storybooking from a distance, I realized I have not personally used it as a tool for my own life. I stand on my soapbox and tell anyone who will listen that preserving personal and family stories strengthens home and family, AND I BELIEVE IT, but have I been hypocritical? I have some stories that I need to write, that I have been avoiding for whatever reason. This year, 2011, is the year that I will practice what I preach! :)

Storybooking New Year's Resolutions

#1 Write MY "Before I Was Your Mother" book. It has been a "work in progress" for 3 years..but only in my mind. This year I will publish it! I think I will realize more benefits from doing this than I can even imagine.

#2 Write a tribute book to my mom...she needs to know how amazing she is.

#3 Find heroes in my ancestry and write about them to rebuild my firm foundation...

#4 Send lots of greeting cards to the people that I love and admire so that they will KNOW that I love and admire them. :)

Let's talk Health and Nutrition. I still get blown away when I think about the fact that this really has become a passion of mine! I never liked exercise, and I really love food! Especially comfort, not-so-good-for-me food. But I watched my husband change pretty much over night when he put the perfect food of Isagenix in his body. He had been missing real nutrition and was not loving life--slept as much as he could and often talked of how he couldn't wait to die--and now he is an energizer bunny! 53 lbs thinner and a life loving power machine! That was over 5 years ago and since then I have seen it work for me, my kids, and hundreds (or thousands) of other people. Our bodies are amazing miracles when we feed them the nutrition they need.

I think I am in better shape at 40 than I have ever been--I enjoy working out, which is huge--and when I finally let go of my sagging (slowly shrinking) baby gut, I think I may look my best as well.

Nutrition New Year's Resolutions

#1 Stay consistent in my passion for good food. Allow myself to OCCASIONALLY enjoy the foods I love, but let go of them as a crutch.

#2 Get a "Jennifer Garner" body. (Did that create a visual for you?:) ) I will do this by journaling my nutrition intake, using the IsaBody Beautiful journal and guide by Susan Sly. (I could also say get a "Susan Sly body")

I'm so so excited about my Education! Sorry if I brag for a minute, but my first attempt "back to school" was a success! I got an A in Humanities! I fell in love and am considering having that as my major. Let us remember that I did only take ONE class, so my chances for success were increased, but I DID have my crazy busy Mom life to throw into the mix. So I am remain proud of myself and happy to bring on another semester. Although this time around it will be Geography...not sure if the Love Level will be as high, but I am resolved to do as well, nonetheless.

I must also add that I threw another course into the mix--not through the college, not accredited. I am taking a voice lesson twice a month, which is something I have been aching to do for quite some time but I was embarrassed or didn't feel entitled or thought I was too old for such a thing...or for whatever reason, I didn't let myself do it. I am not sure what possessed me to just go for it, but it has been a really good thing for me. I can't really describe how, but it is more than just music. I am forcing walls to come down, learning to let others (and myself) see who I am REALLY, connecting to my emotions in ways that I didn't even know existed, overcoming fears...etc etc etc! It's scary and I have considered quitting as many times as I have had lessons, but I can see that this is something I NEED to do for ME.

Education New Year's Resolutions

#1 Get an A in Geography (and like the class... :)

#2 Continue taking voice lessons and not be ashamed to practice at home....

#3 Perform somewhere or audition for something...with confidence, I might add...that is not church (because that is "easy" for me..security blanket of sorts)

Miscellaneous New Year's Resolutions

#1 Blog consistently

#2 Be a better money earner and manager

#3 Enjoy the Journey!!

Today's Focus--Isagenix Nutritional Products

2010-09-03T20:28:00.000-07:00

This is just one of the amazing stories that I have heard--results from using PURE NUTRITION! I have met Angela. I shook her hand. She is one amazing gal!

They say that Isagenix is not a miracle. The body is the miracle! It just needs the right nutrition so that it can work its magic!

This video is from last year. If you would like to see the "rest of the story," visit her website at http://newangela.com/ SERIOUSLY AMAZING!!!

Quick Catch Up 2--I Have a College Student...?

2010-09-01T14:18:00.000-07:00

It's true and yet so impossible! How am I old enough to send a child off to college? And not just any college--Point Park University in PITTSBURGH, PA!--clear across the country!

Mekenze left to pursue her dreams of Broadway stardom on Thursday, August 26. Dave flew out with her (and spoiled her royally, I must add--that is a good thing). They left home at 3am...what a strange time to say goodbye...probably for the best.

Everyone keeps asking me how I am doing. I don't know how to answer: I miss my daughter, of course. But I am so excited for her! (and a little jealous) I know she is where she is supposed to be and she will do amazing!

I did have a few tears on Sunday--that's the day she was actually HOME when she still lived in this house. It was a strange, empty sort of feeling, but I could also feel my heart stretching, growing, embracing Pittsburgh as a part of my home. (How was that for deep? :) )

Quick catch up--I'm a College Student!

2010-09-01T14:08:00.000-07:00

I don't have tons of time but I need to just do a quick catch-up on my life:

I started school! It's crazy but feels so good! I remember why I loved it in the first place-I can feel my brain turning on.

I had almost decided to wait until Spring semester cuz it would just be easier with all that was going on this summer. But I went to the temple on Wednesday of the week before school started and I had a distinct feeling to just do it now! So I went home and registered. I am taking Humanities 1010. General Ed. But it is a great class!

Funny story: I was out of town the first two days of class, so Friday, my first day, was an important day to actually go and find out what I had missed. Routine change is obviously hard for me--and I was about 10 minutes late. AND I walked into the wrong class! (Doors next to each other, my door was dark so my ADD mind missed it) I sat thru Psychology, not knowing what else to do.

Turns out the same class was offered the following hour, so I went to that for as long as I could (visiting teachers were coming). You can just imagine, then, how I did on the "pop quiz" on Monday! :) Yep! Great start!

But it's getting better fast!

Can One Person Have More Than One Passion?

2010-08-31T22:56:00.000-07:00

So, let's be honest. I have more than just 3 "passions" in life. I have sooo many things that I love and feel passionate about. Among those, of course, are my FAMILY and my religious beliefs. Those are a given and won't necessarily be the subject of this blog.

Right now 3 things are really driving me: Storybooking, Exercise and Nutrition, and Education

Storybooking: What is it? It is the coolest way to "scrapbook." I have been able to catch up and keep caught up with the pictures and important memories of my family by using Heritage Makers online publishing system to create hardbound books, posters, calendars, etc... I am so passionate, in fact, that I have made a business out of it. I have been a Heritage Makers Independent Consultant for almost 6 years! It has become an integral part of my life. Aside from what I have been able to do for my own family, my favorite part is meeting lots of incredible people with inspiring stories. I am able to know people on a much deeper level than if I were to just pass by them at Walmart. I make great part-time money, and I get "paychecks of the heart" on a regular basis.

My website is www.LetsWriteYourStory.com, if you would like to see what Heritage Makers is all about.

In this blog, I will be sharing projects and stories of people I meet, and any other happy thing that happens in the Heritage Making realm of my life.

Exercise and Nutrition: I must first begin this "passion" by stating that I used to HATE anything that had to do with exercise. I learned to enjoy walking as a teenager, and that was about the extent of it. My almost 40 year old body stopped responding, however, to pleasant strolling. I knew I needed to do SOMETHING!

**Fast Forward about 5 years**I had a gym membership and I was going but I was clueless as to what I was doing and needed to do to get in shape. I decided I needed to hire a personal trainer--against everything I ever stood for. It took me a week or two to find the nerve to talk to someone, but when I did I think it was divine intervention. I was very impressed with Wendy Hansen and decided to trust her to help me. The type of work out we do is called CROSSFIT and I love it! I can't believe I do but I do! I have gotten stronger and I have learned to like to sweat. :)

You can see a little of what we do at www.ComprehensiveCrossFit.com.

The nutrition side of my passion is called Isagenix. I can honestly say that my life would not be what it is today without this product and this company. My husband had the most amazing health transformation ever! Because of his results, he couldn't shut up about the product --and it became his business. We moved from a 1400 square foot home to a 4500 square foot home in the first year. Our family health and wealth have both changed for the better, and we are on a mission to help others reach the same transformation we have. I can seriously say the recession has not affected the Mac Fam.

So, I keep feeling a stirring from deep within to join forces with my husband in working the Isa-business. I have fought it for long enough...

You can learn more at www.IsaProduct.com and at www.CaryMac.Isagenix.com. And as I continue on with this blog, I will share stories of those whose lives also change for the better.

And finally, Education: I love going to school! I love learning! And I finally get to go again! I enrolled in my first class since I became a wife 20 years ago...so far so good!

Being a non-traditional college student just adds to the internal battle I fight everyday--can I really do all of these things AND be a wife and mother? Reason might say "not very well," but my heart screams otherwise. HENCE, the purpose of this blog...

I hope you'll follow my journey...

2010-07-01T12:06:00.000-07:00

This morning at 5am Brent and Linda Phillips heard a little pitter patter under their bed. They wondered if they could seriously have a mouse in their gorgeous Mexican Villa in Cabo...

but it turned out to be a CRAB!

I guess their son Brandon and daughter Danielle found it by the pool last night

and put it in their room. Nice gift, eh?

So Brent and Dave both tried to "eat it" --the crab pinched both of them in return.

Then they returned the favor and put the Crab in Danielle's bed...

and then returned our friend to its proper home.

Just another day in the life...

2010-06-30T22:36:00.000-07:00

I have had an interesting few days in my "Fish out of water experience." Hanging out with the family that Dave practically lives with during the week. Seeing him more open than I have ever really ever seen him. Feeling a little like not talking cuz I don't know what to say. Amazing people. They don't know me ... yet ...

So I turn to their daughter, a fun but challenged 20 year old. Manic-Depressant in the extreme manic stage right now. She is my friend. Fun to hang out with. She does all the talking and I just listen to Lady Gaga with her...she likes me cuz I listen. She took me on an adventure today. Here's a cute picture of her:

I want to learn Spanish. I want to be able to communicate with these people. I know a lot, but I confuse it with French a lot so I have to think way more than I should. I feel a part of me coming alive as I remember how much I love to learn languages. I thought French would be my first to be fluent in, but with the turn of events in our life these days, it seems Spanish might be it.

We went to dinner, right on the beach, with the Brent and Linda and some of their friends. They are really great people! They live her in Cabo...he was just released as Stake President here in Cabo.

My words don't match my thoughts. But I wanted to put them down...

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

Cabo Contemplations...

2010-06-29T10:59:00.000-07:00

So here I am in Cabo, in a gorgeous villa, owned by Dave's Isa-friends. (I guess I can say my new friends). They are a really nice family--very hospitable, very easy to get along with, quite similar to our own family (lots of teenagers with strong personalities...enough said :) Great kids) I came with Dave to get away with him. Isagenix is opening in Mexico...we are here to hopefully expand business into this country. The Phillilps (the name of the family in whose villa we are staying) know a lot of people here. Here is the view from the kitchen window: to give an idea of the luxory we are enjoying:

And here is the view of the pool, which is basically right on the beach:

I came to Cabo knowing that a lot of time would be spent building the business. I also came hoping to spend time with Dave. I rarely see him. He is working hard to grow his business. It is temporary. But I want to still be able to "connect" when he is "back around," if that makes sense.

I am learning that Dave is very comfortable being alone. He likes his space and time alone. Understandable. We all long for it. I'm not saying he is not "connected" to me or our family. He is a good husband and father. But I do see that he is very comfortable with the "disconnect." I am also learning that I am not. I am so feeling like a fish out of water in a place that I should be relishing! For 20 years, my life has been centered around Dave. Half of my heart--and in fact half of myself--has belonged to him. I used to think that was good! I still do, but I am learning that there is more. I still need to be a whole person. I want to feel comfortable with the times of disconnect as well. I need to remember my whole self. What are my passions--really? What makes me excited? Who am I--REALLY?

I have been saying that I would go back to school when my youngest went to school. He will start first grade in August. I am finding the thought to be scary. I have almost talked myself out of it several times--is it right? what will I study? am I just chasing a false dream of getting a degree? will Dave approve?

Today, as I walked to the beach to watch the waves and think a bit while Dave did his own thing, I realized that I need to no longer care whether or not Dave approves. He does things without needing my approval...and I can't say I disapprove either. I don't want him to grow without me. He married me when I was a vibrant and full of dreams and aspirations, independent and strong. I can only hope that he still wants THAT person and that I can become HER again.

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

Coming Home

2010-06-06T20:32:00.000-07:00

WE couldn't leave without getting sunkissed...or burned. Ouch! Lobster Curtis!

At Grandma & pa Mac's, we saw the Turner cousins and their new puppy!

We didn't have much sun while on the ship, so we spent the last day (after getting off the ship) at Huntington Beach. It was a great way to end a wonderful vacation!

Karter's Favorite Things about the Cruise...

2010-06-06T20:22:00.000-07:00

#1--The BUFFET (or the Buff-EAT, as he called it)

#2- Room Service!!!

#3 -- His VERY OWN Sail and Sign Card--Access to Everything!

#4- Watching TV in Bed

#5- The Towel Animals

#6- The SAFE! That he could open with HIS Card

#7- Snorkeling!

Carnival Cruise--Day #3 ENSENADA

2010-06-06T20:17:00.001-07:00

I think Mexico was our favorite place. The kids really loved shopping and making deals with all the street vendors. And the tacos and chips were really good!

Carnival Cruise--Day 2

2010-06-06T19:55:00.001-07:00

Of course, we start with a yummy breakfast

A view of Catalina from the ship

The Tender ride to Catalina Island

Such a fun place!

Beach Bummin'

Snorkeling

(some are braver than others...the water was cold!)

Getting Ready for Dinner

Karter locked one shoe in one room, the other shoe is on his foot. We had to locate the other key and wait patiently for the shoe to be rescued....

Fun and Fancy Dinner

Dave felt like a winner! Bingo anyone?

Showtime!

Room Service! Really?

Our Carnival Cruise--Day 1 "All's Well that Ends Well"

2010-06-06T18:33:00.000-07:00

Wow! We had such a great time on our Cruise to Catalina/Ensenada. What a great way to celebrate the high school graduation of our first child! It was ,however, not without challenges...

I must back up to Saturday night as a preface to the first day of our trip--boarding day. I was finishing up the packing process late Saturday night and I went to the nifty little wooden box that safely stores all of our important documents to retrieve the kids' birth certificates. I found all--except Curtis'. I looked through everything quadruple times, opening and shaking each little piece of paper, but to no avail. It was not there! Dave wasn't pleased--why did I wait until Saturday night to look? BECAUSE THEY ARE ALWAYS IN THAT BOX! ALWAYS!! So we combed the house, searched our memory banks, and prayed multiple prayers...I had one brilliant idea that we could go to the Health Dept in CA on our way to the ship, until Dave reminded me that Monday was Memorial Day and the Health Dept would be closed....and so finally, I went to bed with a secondary idea to call Carnival first thing in the morning to find out what we could do.

Sunday morning, 7 am, I called Carnival--relieved to hear that if I brought Curtis SSN and a photo ID, that would suffice and he would be able to board the ship. WHEW! We went to an early Sacrament Meeting then headed for California, all smiles and filled with excitement, as I'm sure you can imagine.

Monday morning--We originally planned to have Carl, Dave's brother, to take us to the port at around 1, as boarding started at 1:30, but everyone was soooo anxious that we decided to go at 10am. GOOD THING! Because when we presented ourselves at the early boarding desk, the lovely Carnival worker lady, Mary Estelle (the lovely lady in red in the photo below), put an immediate STOP to boarding process....Curtis's documents were not sufficient to board. We would either have to leave him behind or just not go on our long awaited dream vacation. Um NO! Not OK! You should have heard the commotion that the Mac Arthur family can make. I was actually surprised at how vocal my oldest girls are...Curtis turned pale, sat down, and put his head in his lap; Karter began to bawl!and Mady had tears brimming in her eyes; I was shaking and Dave was demanding to speak to a supervisor because the answer NO was NOT ACCEPTABLE!

So we were escorted to the main building to talk to the Diane, the Supervisor, who then took our docs and our case to her supervisor and other higher ups from customs and such. It took them 45 minutes to come back with another resounding NO! We were apparantly not going on a cruise...

More tears, anger, upset stomach (on my part, because this was all my fault for not checking my box sooner). What were we going to do now? We summoned our luggage back (we had checked it onto the ship already) and waited...we couldn't bring ourselves to leave.

It was a Federal offense with a "hefty fine" to use a cell phone in that building, but given our predicament, we were given permission to use our phones. Who could we call? There had to be a way? The school had a copy of his birth certificate...I called Craig Seegmiller, Mekenze's and Arielle's friend's dad, who is on the school board. He gave me the number to the principal at the middle school and at both elementaries that Curtis attended. No answer. But I have friends...I called Robin Keith, a teacher and counselor at Dixie Middle. She was in Pennsylvania...BUT she had Kay Peirce's phone number! Kay is a secretary at DMS, and she was HOME! Having a family party...but she was willing to do us this very huge favor. She arrived at the school with about 30 minutes to spare but could not find Curtis' file. AUGHHH!! Arielle had the idea--look under "C"--and lo and behold! The file was found, birth certificate inside. She faxed it over, and we ran to the check in counter where Mary Estelle (what are the odds that she was working the next available window?) cheered for us and completed the check in process! WoW! You have never seen a more excited--and relieved--group of Mac Arthur kids (and parents).

First stop--the BUFFET!

Does Dave look happy/relieved or what?

The Welcome Show

Karoake

Laser Tag

Staterooms!

(Karter's #1 favorite thing was that he had his own key--a complete list of Karter's favorites coming soon...)

The Girls' Room

Curtis Living in Style...

All my Kids are VIP's...

2010-05-04T22:10:00.000-07:00

Last but not least, before I head to bed, here is a book that I recently published to let my daughter Arielle know that she is a Very Important Person. I can't wait until it arrives! (Should be anyday!)

Aunt Brag Time!

2010-05-04T21:51:00.000-07:00

I guess it can also be Sister brag time along with Aunt brag time cuz I'm about to post a video of my cute little 2 year old (yes, she is really 2) dancing to my talented brother's 2nd release on country radio, "The Bible and the Belt!" (www.duewestmusic.com--check them out!) We had a CD release party at the park here in St. George. We served cake to innocent park-goers and blasted the music! I am not ashamed of it! We created new Due West lovers who even purchased a CD or two! But anyways, my mom and two of my sisters and I had planned to make up the "official line dance" for the song (with all of our talent...we hoped Dani would make it up and we would just follow) but in the end it seems that cute little Graeci stole the show! (give her a minute to get warmed up...)

Mom Brag Time!

2010-05-04T21:21:00.000-07:00

I always ALWAYS have loved baseball! It reminds me of home, sitting with the family, watching the Atlanta Braves on TV; watching my dad or my brothers play--oh and my cute little sisters (we won't mention the time I "played"). If we took any family vacations, it was to watch the Braves play someone (usually the Padres since their field was closest to us) So can you see why happiness comes from baseball? :) So anyway, Karter just started playing and he is doing so well! I am loving watching him! Here is a cute little video of his awesome batting skills:

It's not a secret that I also love music--in all shapes and sizes--especially when my kids are the music makers. Here is a video of the Diamond Talent Musical Theater Showcase. Diamond Talent is the most amazing place for teaching kids to bring out the music--I feel so blessed to have them in our town! So, this was the final number--taken from my phone, so forgive the poor filmage--but it is soooo sooo powerful! And I am a proud mom, so...here goes! OH--first I must say that the song comes from the musical "13" and the girl in the purple who sings with the bigger guy in the black...that's my oldest, Mekenze...

I have two other chitlins of whom I am equally proud but I have not taken recent video footage of them. You can scroll and see a few (I think--at least photos). Enjoy!

God works in Mysterious Ways

2010-03-30T19:29:00.000-07:00

So I haven't posted for a long time but today I have felt the Hand of God in my life and I wanted to share. They are small and simple ways, but they touched me.

The first way started on Sunday, actually, when Mekenze asked me what she could do that was "worthwhile" during her 2 hours between school and dance. She must be feeling the reality of going away to college--far, far away, I might add--Pointe Park in Pennsylvania. She wanted suggestions like going grocery shopping for me, or making cookies for our neighbor, or making a quilt, or baptisms for the dead...

I was impressed on Sunday, but this morning when she asked for a grocery list and my debit card because she was going to the grocery store before she came home from school, I was impressed in a stronger version of the word. All of the time I have spent wondering and worrying if I have raised her right and taught her all that she should know as a woman...knowing that life is way too busy sometimes and that I have missed these types of moments...but I must have taught her something. God let me know today that she is a good girl and is ready to move on in her life.

The other thing happened when I emptied the lint screen on the dryer and something fell down into the vent. I turned the dryer on and it made terrible sounds! You have to know that the dryer tube comes off the back of the dryer sometimes (because it was badly attached) and there has been way too much lint behind the dryer and pretty much all over the laundry room. Every time I take the time to realize the fire hazaard, Dave is gone. I try to move the washer and dryer out and end up frustrated so I clean the best I can and call it good. Well, today Dave was home and he noticed the ugly noise the dryer made and came to my rescue. He pulled it out far enough to get behind it and after he had fixed the problem, he let me get behind it and clean it! (That doesn't always happen. He is often in too big of a hurry to allow me to clean the way I want/need to) You would not believe the fire hazaard! I'm not kidding! I honestly believe that if I hadn't accidentally let something drop into the vent on a day that Dave was home, we would have had ourselves a lovely fire befor too long. I kind of don't think it was really an accident...I think God had His hand in it. He knows and is there in even the silliest ways!

So there you go, simple but I needed to share...

Arielle's Birthday

2009-11-29T19:26:00.000-08:00

We celebrated mostly the day before. First she took (and PASSED with flying colors) her Driving Test!!! Then later she and Mekenze and I went to a day spa and pampered ourselves. It was fun! Here are pictures of her opening her gifts and blowing out her candles on Thanksgiving morning...

Thanksgiving Day was also Arielle's 16th birthday!

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

Can you say TOO MUCH FOOD!?!?!

2009-11-29T19:03:00.001-08:00

Don't these pictures look like we had so much fun for Thanksgiving this year? Cuz yes! We did! We really missed having Tim's and Dani's families, but it was still a really great time. I am really grateful for my family! And for a beautiful home, and food to eat, and clothes to wear, and for so so so many blessings that I take for granted everyday! I am also grateful that holidays like this only come occasionally. Wow!

I used to think food was the best thing ever! It was what I looked forward to. It is what I associated with a "good time." I still really like food, but I am realizing more and more that there is more to life! AND I feel better when I "take it easy."

Somewhere inside of me lives that little voice that whispers "FOOD--and lots of it--means happiness!" That voice gets louder when I am with my family! We had a really great Thanksgiving weekend and we had lots of yummy food! I probably gained some pounds...And my stomach is very full STILL!! I'll miss having everyone here, but I'm ready to get back to moderation and Isagenix meals!

30 Day Challenge...again

2009-10-11T18:40:00.000-07:00

Do you think that sometimes when you are making a major change in your habits that there is a force that comes on strong just when you start to get results? Today has been a hard day for positive thinking...which is weird cuz it's Sunday! A day for happiness in its purest form! I need to spend some quiet time in a happy place or I'm going to have to start these 30 days over...I know! I'll read my Patriarchal Blessng!

And maybe read some fun blogs of my friends so that I can be inspired...

Here goes!

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

My Latest Heritage Makers Projects!!!

2009-10-11T17:39:00.000-07:00

Cute new swatch book projects make me happy! I just finished two and I can't wait until they come...

My mom loves Halloween so this is for her: (You will need to click on the link because I can't get the embedded code to work...bummer)

http://www.heritagemakers.com/projectBrowserStandAlone.cfm?projectId=1050664&productId=62&projectSponsor=142544

And here is another cute one of just my kids:

http://www.heritagemakers.com/projectBrowserStandAlone.cfm?projectId=1050973&productId=62&projectSponsor=142544

And a BOARD BOOK of how Madyson is a VIP in our family!

http://www.heritagemakers.com/projectBrowserStandAlone.cfm?projectId=1044934&productId=60&projectSponsor=142544

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

Huntsman Sr World Games

2009-10-11T14:48:00.000-07:00

Gina and her cute kids came to watch. We are all holding our hands over our hearts while 3 parachuters fall from the sky, one of them carrying the USA Flag! Gourgeous!

Here is Madyson holding the Russian flag. I can't believe she is old enough now to be a flag. She did a great job!

Mekenze represented India. Fun because we have ancestors from India. She always does a beautiful job.

I know, I am really great photographer...:)

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

30 Day Challenge...end of 2nd week

2009-10-11T09:51:00.000-07:00

I decided to wait awhile until I posted again on how my 30 day challenge was going.
I have been listening every morning to "The Strangest Secret" by Earl Nightingale. Some mornings my mind wanders, sometimes I almost fall asleep as I listen with my eyes closed in the early morning, so I have wondered if it would be able sink in, but as I have noticed little pieces of magic happening in my thought processes and in my life, I know that it is.

Probaby the first real "in my face" manifestation was when my visiting teacher came over. I never have visting teachers, but this little cute lady has come faithfully for the past 3 months. So, the magic started on Fast Sunday (2 weeks ago today...)

I had read earlier that morning from a book written by Sheri Dew called "If Life Were Easy, It Wouldn't Be Hard." The chapter was about not making life harder than it already needs to be by neglecting to pray. Pray for everything! Problems, joys, business, spirit, family....EVERYTHING! I have heard this before. In Alma we read how we should pray over our flocks and our fields for prosperity, etc, but for the first time it really made sense to me that not only is it OK to pray for business, but it is necessary to do so. So I fasted that day for the Lord to help me obey this simple yet profound truth, and I fasted for help with my business.

During Fast and Testimony meeting, I felt prompted to bare my testimony, but I pushed it aside, thinking that our ward never has a second without members running up to the pulpit for their turn...well, no one was running! In fact, we had full minutes of silence! Odd...so I bore my testimony. It actually felt good (I have maybe born my testimony once in our current ward. I haven't really let myself feel apart of the ward yet...). So, my visiting teacher catches me when Sacrament meeting is over, thanks me for my testimony, and tells me she needs to come over before the month ends. So we make an appointment...

I had almost forgotten that she was coming on the morning of our appointment, but I was actually still home when she came. We talked for awhile, and then she told me she had felt impressed to share just one paragraph from the Ensign with me. It wasn't even from the specific Visiting Teaching message; it was from the First Presidency's message by Elder Dieter F Uchtdorf. The paragraph said that it is time for me to realize my potential, and to set my goals high--but not too high..." It was amazing how much it fit in with everything I was thinking and doing and wanting.

I can't really express the power that message had on me. I don't think I ever have had someone (besides my Patriarchal Blessing) tell me that they had an impression specifically for me before. Huge testimony about how the Lord heard my prayers and that He is and will continue to answer them.

I have since felt little mind-alterings going on inside myself, helping me to change my normal routine and approaches to business and life in general. I feel my mind exploring and accepting new ideas. I even was able to get through to Wendy, my upline Executive in Heritage Makers, for some mentoring (rare that I can get through!) and she helped me to adjust my perspectives on my business goals. I have changed the date that I plan to reach Gold Director from 12/09 to 03/10...

I have also had team members coming to me with their goals and desires to move forward, some of whom I haven't heard from in a long time. Just some of the simple miracles that are occuring with this challenge of thinking positively in the direction of my goals.

**I cannot fail to mention that even before the Strangest Secret challenge, I challenged myself to go to the temple once a week. I know that the changes that have been occuring in my life, leading to and including the Strangest Secret, are DIRECTLY related to this!**

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

Karter is playing FOOTBALL!

2009-10-10T21:09:00.000-07:00

It has been a long time since I have had a "little kid" involved in extra curricular activities. I forgot how cute they are! Flag football is a first for us. How funny to see little 5 year old boys thinking they are so cool, running up and down the field, having no idea what they are doing! It's fun! Karter went to his first practice and came home saying "I'm the best on the team!" And I know he isFirst game he stood and watched while other kids chased the ball and pulled the flag. He was always very excited for whichever of his team mates pulled the flag...he'd do the macho "Yes!" moves and look over at us to see if we were watching. Finally Dave told him he could pull he flag too and he said "OH!!!" It was funny
that he didn't know he could.

He really loves his coach. He makes sure he walks near him or gives him "5" as often as he can.

Yesterday was his second game. He scored a touchdown and pulled a flag! Hooray Karter!

But the biggest excitement for both games

was the treat at the end!

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

Relationship with ME!

2009-09-27T21:12:00.000-07:00

So remember I said I had lots to share! I feel like I should share this now...even though no one is probably reading (especially since I'm not posting pictures), it is good for me to journal and remember little moments for myself.

Last weekend I went to the Heritage Makers reunion. I love going to these, to see my friends and feel the power of story, but this year I was a little apprehensive. I think I was worried about having lost some of my vision (which was regained, by the way) and feeling for some reason like I didn't fit in as well as I once did. I felt that since I haven't advanced in rank (yet again) or been asked to speak or made any great contributions to the company that I was maybe out of place a bit. And I never feel confident there as there are so many dynamic, beautiful people with nice clothes who take gorgeous photos--I am not photogenic at all! (I must add a disclaimer here--this is all through my own eyes! "My reality," which isn't necessarily true!)

I was most excited about the Heritage Makers Got Talent competition that I was able to sing in! I was chosen as one of the 10 finalists to compete for $200-500! I thought maybe I could place in the top 3. I could use the money AND I hadn't performed in so long that I was really excited! I must say that I had a really great time singing! And although I didn't place (or even move to the next round), I felt really good about my performance. But the thing that was even cooler for me was that I felt comfortable with "ME" the whole time! I felt like I belonged. I have been working out and losing some weight, so I felt I looked better than I have for a long time (although photos are still not so great--ha ha) and I can't even really describe why or how, but I came home liking ME! No awards, no "recognition," or anything else out of the ordinary, but I had a really great time with my team and I just feel good about being Cary Mac Arthur, Founding HM Director, mom of 5 plus a foster, children's voice teacher, Dave's wife, daughter of Gene and Delna, and Daughter of God!

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

Day #3--30 Day Challenge

2009-09-27T21:05:00.000-07:00

I love Sunday! I love to get a chance to sleep in until 8 or 8:30, follow it up with a bath and then church. At least for this 11:00 church time!

Today is the 3rd day of my 30 day challenge. I even included it in my fast! (We had Fast Sunday today because of General Conference next week.) I was reading in the tub a book called "If Life Were Easy It Wouldn't Be Hard" written by Sheri Dew. She mentioned that we make life harder when we don't pray for help in all of our life endeavors. I think I have felt "guilty" before for praying for "temporal desires" but really all things to God are spiritual. He wants us to ask Him--include Him in all things. So I did. And I will continue to do so.

It's been amazing how in just these 3 days different ideas are coming to my mind. Not necessarily ideas about how to make my business better, but ideas on how to make my life better! It feels like my mind has been in hibernation but it has turned back on and is starting to work again!

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

30 Day Challenge, Day 2

2009-09-26T20:08:00.000-07:00

I am loving the routine I am starting with waking up at 6:30, waking up the kids, and listening to "The Strangest Secret" as they get ready. Today as I listened, I was able to picture myself achieving my goal. The cool thing is that I could also visualize my team accomplishing their goals at the same time! It was a good feeling!

Day 2 at the expo was slow as well. Christie talked to a few people who are interested in the business! Let's get her team built so she can advance in rank!

Short blog report, but consistent, right? Now I am off to watch a movie with my family and prepare for Sunday. Tomorrow is FAST SUNDAY because of General Conference.

Happy weekend!

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

30 Day Challenge

2009-09-25T20:32:00.000-07:00

I have so much to share! So much I want to blog about! But I think the thoughts and events will be recorded out of order...

Today I began my 30 Day Challenge with Earl Nightingale, as presented on his CD called "The Strangest Secret." The challenge is to learn to control my thoughts because "WE ARE WHAT WE THINK ABOUT!" It is imperative to keep our thoughts positive and on our true desires because we reap what we "sow," (or think about),we find what we seek, we receive what we ask.

What,then, do I seek? What is my greatest desire? I have so many desires, and I am one to believe that I can have it all. But maybe I am learning that ALL doesn't need to be RIGHT NOW! One thing I learned as I listened to the cd today is that I can't desire for conflicting things with equal amounts of passion, or I can become confused (REAALLLLY??? :o/) I wonder, though, if I can for desire things for different parts of my life at the same time? Of course I want to be the best MOM that I can be. I want to be there for my kids. I want the house to function at a fairly organized level, with dinners made and appointments met and spirits loved and nurtured. Of course I want to be a diligent and serving Daughter of God. My calling should be done with the best of my abilities--my talents, time, and effort used to build the Kingdom of God. I want my relationships with my external family (parents and sibs) to be nurtured and strong. After all, these are some of my best friends...and along with all of this, I want to be a LEADER! Specifically, a Heritage Makers Leader! Diamond Director, to be exact! Why? Because I KNOW I CAN! I have talents and traits and power to share! I believe that the vision and mission of Heritage Makers is a great way to not only make money, but also touch lives! I think I was put on this earth to touch lives--thus sharing the gospel. I believe I was led to this company and that all that I have gone thru to this point has been for a purpose. I also believe that I have held myself back--and it is TIME to move forward!

So I will use these next 30 days to focus on my business goals! As I mentioned before, the ultimate goal is Diamond Director, but other steps must be climbed before I reach the top. Silver Director is the next step, but I have told myself and others that I want to skip Silver and go straight to GOLD! So, my first giant step in my Heritage Makers goal is to reach the rank of Gold Director! I will attach a date: Dec 31. That is 3 months--very possible! A sprint, but possible!

So what does that entail? It means I need to help 4 ladies reach their goal of Director. And we together need a group volume of $25,000. We have done $12000 as a small group, so I know the volume is possible. I have 4 ladies who say they want to be Directors. Of these 4, two have already begun to build a team. My focus is to teach them to sponsor--thru example and motivation most of all--and to mentor their consultants in the business.

I see myself as organized and consistent. My team can depend on me! I am innovative and tireless! I can focus well on the goal and not let myself get distracted.

The key to maitaining this--for me--is to also keep my family at functioning level. I am a wife and mother first and foremost, so I picture calm organization at home. I see us all working together toward our goals. We are a team. I can lead my family! And I can lead my team! I create leaders through my example.

Here is a photo of our booth today. Christie is one my potential Directors!

I AM a Heritage Makers Gold Director!

Today's Actions toward my goal:

Listen to the cd
Pray
Read positive literature (Ensign)
prepare for/attend Business Opportunity expo
Schedule Bus. Opp call for my team
Organize the "whereabouts" of my kids

Today was a pretty good day. A good first step! I did feel my thoughts wander when the expo was slow, but talking to other people about how even a slow expo can be productive helped me to keep my thoughts positive. I also feel good about the fact that I am posting my journey in this blog--to help with follow thru--and that I emailed my team about upcoming meetings, etc. So far, so good.

I must continue for 30 consecutive days or start over. I can do it!!!!

://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

Here is some of the GOOD NEWS!

2009-09-03T17:56:00.000-07:00

I asked the question "I am looking for "A Little Good News" today! Anyone have any to share?" on Twitter and Facebook and this is what I got! Keep in mind that a lot of these people have never met eachother!

davilivingston: Passed my test #ALGN

CaryMac: It just rained really hard in St George!#ALGN

tawshachadburn: I just got a new swim suit, a shirt, and two pairs of shorts at old navy all for 18.20.

CaryMac : My daughter turned in all her schoolwork today! And did good on her math test #ALGN

mbjjmusic: http://twitpic.com/gctif - #ALGN Somebody brought treats again. Delicious!!!

mbjjmusic: #ALGN Has been extra busy this afternoon at work. Always good news. Job security.

davespea4jake: We've got plenty of room... I would do it to help someone out

CaryMac: Now that's just nice! DavesPea4Jake: Where r u? I can babysit RT: @CaryMac Can't find a sitter? Rt @davilivingston

This just in from @jasondeere FB status: @duewestmusic #15 on GAC top 20! Only indie in the countdown!

davespea4jake: I get to pick my kitten up today & make her officially mine after she's been gone for 2 days... YAY! #ALGN =)

CaryMac: I lifted heavier weights than I thought I could! #ALGN (A Little Good News!)

Lance Colby: my family is finally home from the vacation in North Carolina!!! 4 weeks gone was a long time to be away from them. That's super good news...at least for me.

Lance Colby: oh, and my socks match today!!!!

Malia Fely Mullins: Later this afternoon Jeff and I head to Cali. We will meet Jon's mission pres. on Saturday( don't get to see Jon) but we're excited to visit his mission.

Gina Griffin Ogden: Okay Cary...here is my possible good news...I am bottling for the first time today and right now, I am pretty excited about it...I'll let you know how if it stays good news or something else! LOL!

Brét GatesI got two babies to sleep and Instead of getting something worth while done while they're sleeping I'm enjoying the silence!

Annette Williamson Belnap: My dishwasher finally works!

Wendy Weir Effinger I leave for Hotlanta in the morning.

There's a lot to be thankful for!

2009-09-03T12:58:00.000-07:00

So do you always have to have pictures to go along with the story? I know pictures make it more fun, but sometimes I just don't have a picture!

Today I want to focus on Good News!

Have you ever heard the song by Anne Murray called "A Little Good News?"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8WEH8u-OJS8

I have always loved it! It reminds me that in a world where there is so much "bad" that is happening, there still is a lot of good! Sometimes it just takes reminding! Counting our blessings, so to speak...

So today I have been asking everyone to share some GOOD NEWS--even simple things--that are happening in their lives. Together, we can show the world that still is more good than bad!!!!

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

Arielle singing Christina Aguillera "Hurt"

2009-08-18T17:24:00.000-07:00

I thought I knew how to embed these,but I guess there needs to be an option...oh well, follow the link and watch my daughter sing! Love it! Someday I will have all of them on here!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9kHeafgiLQ

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

Curtis Loves to Skateboard!

2009-08-18T16:32:00.000-07:00

Curtis has been spending hours learning tricks on his skateboard. I'm glad he has such determination. I hope he puts some of it toward school this year! ha ha

My Baby is All Grown Up!

2009-08-18T15:39:00.000-07:00

Karter started Kindergarten yesterday. Most moms cry, but I think it is so exciting! Maybe I'm mean, but I just don't get sad when my kids go to school. I wondered if MAYBE I would this time, where he is my BABY, but nope! Happiness and a little bit of awe...and can I say secretly wishing it lasted all day? No, THAT would be mean! 3hours is perfect for both of us right now.

KINDERGARTEN is SOOOO CUTE!!!! When you have millions (well, 4) kids going to Kindergarten every other year, it is just routine, so you don't realize how dang cute it is! But wait 6 years and send your baby...it's just cute!

Last week he got to go in and meet his teacher, Mrs. Pickering, and get a taste of "Centers." I got to go with him and help. He was so stressed about doing everything perfect! For example, he was supposed to "estimate" how many cotton balls were in a jar. He couldn't stand it because he thought he might be wrong. He guessed 15 and there were 13. It killed him! (Is he his Mom's kid?) But he had a great time.

Here is a picture of the math center, matching colored shapes to a design on the paper. He made a kite!

Karter was most excited to ride the bus. It was scheduled to arrive at 12:12. Dave and I walked him to the bus stop and waited with him (103 degrees outside)...and we waited...and we waited...the bus didn't come! So we hurried home and drove him to school instead. He was so bummed until we explained that he could still ride it home. We took him to his classroom to find NO TEACHER or kids in the classroom! I guess a lot of kids didn't get to ride the bus--minor chaos--but finally all was well and we left Karter there to enjoy his first day of school.

Today the bus DID come! So we had two cute first days with cute pictures to go with them!

Karter sings "The Climb" by Miley Cyrus

2009-08-12T19:50:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8OIQ1PkQNQ

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

Due West's First Video!

2009-07-28T11:12:00.000-07:00

What an amazing day! Hopefully I can get this to work...I really want you to see it!

Due West

More CMT Music

More CMT Music Videos

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

Mekenze and Me in NYC...

2009-07-28T09:07:00.000-07:00

So the day finally came for me to escort Mekenze to the Big Apple for her Summer Ballet Intensive workshop! The only problem with me using the word "escort" is that I had never been there! Mekenze had, however, so she was the "expert."

We took a red eye flight and landed in NYC at 10 am. Feeling overwhelmed with finding our way to our hotel in New Jersey (my brother Zach found us a room at a rockin' price of $29.95 a night...so it was worth the extra travel time) on no sleep and virtually no experience, I decided it would be worth it to pay a taxi driver $70 to take us there. (Hey, I actually talked him down! He wanted $100!) So he found 4 other ladies to make it "worth it for himself, and we piled into his SUV (which made everyone but me nervous cuz it wasn't a traditional yellow NYC cab...I guess I'm naive, but he was nice and spoke French even! and we made it safely...so...)

Here is the picture of our cabbie and the other riders. They were fun!

We took a the New Jersey Transit bus from the Hampton Inn-Meadowlands for $3.40 each way. It was easy and kinda fun! Our first attempt was interesting as we didn't know if it would really stop for us...we waited like 20 minutes past when the schedule said it should be there.

Here is Mekenze at the bus stop, wondering if her Mom is a dork for agreeing to stay in New Jersey instead of downtown Manhatten...

Trying to get back on the right bus at 11 pm was a different adventure. We weren't sure at first if we would ever find it! Our instructions didn't match the real deal...gate 409 will always hold frustrating memories for Mekenze...

Our first day was full of "figuring things out." The subway, avenues compared to streets, uptown vs downtown...it was awesome! I can't believe this is real life to some people! and I can't believe how much I loved it! It's dirty, crazy, chaotic, and wonderful!

Billy Elliot...my first Broadway show. I still can't believe how such a narrow, compact, filthy street could be home to such brilliance! You walk into what seems like a tiny little store front and it opens up into this glorious theater!

I have to admit...while I really did enjoy the show--the music, the dancing, the staging and props--I was taken aback by the language. Wow! I've never been so exposed! But if you take away the "cockroaches" it was great! I will see Wicked and/or Lion King and/or Little Mermaid and/or Mary Poppins and/or Phantom next time I go.

Mekenze got some really cute shorts--souvenirs from the show. She collects playbills, merch, etc from all the shows she has seen...

Mekenze will be on Broadway someday. Hopefully she can find something that is becoming to a "Latter Day Saint girl..."

We spent a lot of time in Central Park. It is huge! So much to see! We took a little bike tour. A kid from Russia pedaled the bike while we sat in a little carriage. It was awesome...poor kid! Ha ha..He showed us the sites of the park. It was very enchanting...

The famous fountain from "Friends." I don't watch the show really so I don't recognize it, but everyone else probably does. Mekenze is in LOVE with Friends! I feel honored to be in this Friendly Foto with her!

Isn't this a great view! Somewhere back there is the Hotel from Home Alone 2 and Madonna's apartment and one of the Trump Towers...

Strawberry Fields and the monument to John Lennon. This is a serious shrine for some people. It was very cool to see, but I especially loved the building across the street where he lived and was killed. Incredible!

Here are some scenes from the times when we just "hit the pavement" and explored. That was my favorite part. My husband told us we needed to "blend in" to be safe. I think we did pretty well with that! 2 people asked us for directions!

Times Square...Absolutely amazing!

Super Man Dude selling "designer" purses for $10 each! He was dancing and rapping. "Half price! Half price! Today only...blah blah!"

He loved that I wanted to take his picture. I was trying to sneak, but he was all for the pose!

I am such a people watcher, and he was definitely fun to watch!

Mekenze picked a purse out for me and for her. Heaven for her! Street vendors are fun.

Finally I had to drop her off and go home. It was easier for me after having spent 2 and 1/2 days in the city with her. She is very smart and very strong and she will be fine. The area where she is staying was my favorite part of the city (that we saw) It reminded me of The Cosby Show! Quaint and "peaceful" (relatively) and I would seriously live there if I had to live in NYC.

Here she is in front of her dorm. The inside reminds me of the orphanage on Annie. Small, run down, and really fascinating! So much character! I heard that a little room like hers would cost like $4000 a month. Who knows, but man! I feel lucky to live where I live!

I really learned a lot about Mekenze and about myself on this trip. It was good time and I plan to spend similar time with each of my kids as they grow up! Incredible trip! Can't wait til next time!

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

California, part 3

2009-07-19T19:34:00.000-07:00

I threw this picture of Dave and I in cuz I forgot to include it in our Sea World pics. It's not a bad photo!

On our way "home" from the beach, we stopped at Pizza Hut to eat.

I thought it would make some fun photos!

Does it look yummy?

Unviersal Studios was the next day! For all of you Desperate Housewives lovers, this is from their "street!" (Davi, this is for you)

My girls are "All That. And a bag of chips."

The Simpsons, which I hate the TV show, was a pretty fun ride!

This was a fun little playhouse where we enjoyed shooting balls at eachother. We left Arielle in there by herself because she was having so much fun! And we left Karter too...sad, huh?

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

California Trip, part 2

2009-07-19T19:02:00.000-07:00

We stayed in Anaheim at the Double Tree Inn. The drives were pretty fun but we seemed to get lost each time we tried to get "home." I thought Dave grew up in So. Cal! ha ha

But we LOVED seeing the San Diego Temple on the way back to Anaheim! It is BEAUTIFUL!

So why would I put a picture of Mekenze's foot? Because it sat next to me the whole trip pretty much, except when I was driving, it was Arielle's foot. Couldn't take a picture while driving however...sad for you, huh?

I really think that Karter's favorite part of the trip was staying in the hotel! He was so excited! He slept in all the beds, I think...

Next you will enjoy our Huntington Beach experience. It was a really good day! Dave's sister, Vickie, and two of her kids,Matthew and Danielle, came with us. We don't get to see them much, but we do have a good time when we do!

Matt and Karter had fun playing Smash Ball, another gift from Dave's Isa-friend, Jim.

Isn't this a great photo? Mekenze and Arielle's favorite beach picture ever!

Or wait, maybe they like this one of them laying out better! :)

Jessica burns really easily, so she only layed out in her swim suit for a minute, and then she put her clothes back on. Smart girl...kinda funny to see, though!

Boogie Boarding was a real hit! Dave taught the kids the secret to catching the waves. I had a really great time watching!

Curtis is always the stud...

Karter wanted me to bury him...

Karter emerging from the sand...

and he makes it out! Super hero!

Mady and Arielle played a game of Smash ball, as did Curtis and Dave. This picture only shows half of the teams, of course.

Matthew and Karter, building a sand castle.

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

California Trip June 2009

2009-07-19T17:38:00.001-07:00

Dave's favorite vacation is California, so while I hoped to take a road trip to Nashville and then on New York City, he planned to spend a week in Southern California. We did have a great time, however. We actually got to see more than just Disneyland and Knotts! Ha! Does that sound spoiled? Disneyland is, after all, the ULTIMATE VACATION for most everyone! I just think there is more to see~ SO...we went to Sea World and Univesal Studios, and of course to the beach and to visit Dave's Dad for his 75th birthday. Great times! I have a ton of pictures (well, for me) to upload. I forgot our real not-so-wonderful digital camera, but Dave had brought the video camera, which also allows for still photos. I was very excited because I thought that the more expensive camera would take great pictures! But alas, it only takes great video shots. The photos are really only good to post on a blog. I will figure out a way to storybook them, however. You just watch me!

I keep forgetting that these photos upload kinda backward to the order I want them, so they will probably be out of order, but you should be able to follow ok.

So, here goes! First photo:

Are you scared? That shark is about to eat us!
Dave didn't feel too great so luckily we had things to keep us occupied. Mekenze had her phone. Arielle had Mekenze as a pillow.

Mady, Curtis and Karter enjoyed the playground equipment in Elmo's World (or whatever they call the Sesame Street area.) Kinda cute!

Mekenze, Arielle, and I found a really great mirror that showed us how we would look if we were really skinny!

And here is Dave. So grateful for Tylenol Sinus! Perked him up quite well.

Dolphins at Sea World. Aren't they the most amazing animals? If I were to want a pet, it would be a dolphin.

Jessica LOVED Sea World. I have never heard her be so excited as she exclaimed during the whale show "They're so beautiful!" Cuteness.

Arielle and Jess, feelin' the love. They both got really wet in the water ride.

Dave is giving into temptation. His Isa-Buddy, Jim, gave us a ton of candy to eat on our trip! Thanks Jim! You helped Dave feel better!

A cute little pose in front of the Flamingos. Did you know they are pink because they eat shrimp? Weird!

Don't we all look thrilled to be here? The fact is, the day before we left home, 1/2 of our family came down with the "Swine Flu," (Well, not really, but that is what we called it) so we had more fun than our faces show. :) (This photo should have been first, or at least before Dave's sorrowful picture. Oh well! You get the idea!)

Curtis and Karter are feeling all 'BAD.' Little did we know that Michael Jackson was going to die the next day! (Curtis bought those glasses while Dave was recooperating in Elmo's World.)

http://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

Summer is Here! What will my kids do with their time?

2009-05-23T16:46:00.000-07:00

Arielle and Mady will entertain themselves and eachother...

Karter will play at the park as much as possible!

Arielle will probably hang with the cute little kids as much as possible.
Mekenze will dance and hang with her dance friends...

Where's Curtis? Out riding/jumping his bike....pics to follow soon!

2009-05-12T19:53:00.001-07:00

Today was a little bit of a lesson for me. I realized that my best friend is my laptop! :) Today, I lost my best friend when my son and my nephew were rough-housing and knocked it off the desk. So, here's the question: do I yell and scream and throw a fit? Do I punish these two little boys for ruining an expensive piece of equipment, the staple of my business? Or do I remember that I like my computer--a lot--but I love these boys and they matter more to me than anything else in the world--(along with my other kids, of course!)

I am happy with the reaction I did have. I felt like crying on the inside (after I got over the shock, that is) but when Karter hugged me and cried that he was sorry that he broke the computer that I "really love," I was able to tell him that it was OK and that I "really loved him more!"

So...now for kicking some Heritage Makers butt so I can buy a new laptop!

What a Great Day!

2008-09-21T20:35:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note...I have had a really great and spiritual day. My testimony was strengthened today by the talks in Sacrament Meeting on the gift of the Holy Ghost and personal revelation. One speaker reminded me to choose the BEST out of all that is good out there!

In Sunday School, I was reminded of the Power of the Atonement. We can do a lot of good "on our own" but Christ is where perfection and healing and true happiness come from.

Then the fireside tonight was fabulous! It was done by a couple who had served as Mission Presidents in the Arizona Tempe Mission. They were so full of the Spirit! I was touched by the power of testimony...what a power!

And of course, my cute niece Josilyn's 3rd birthday party was the icing on the cake!

It's a great day!

://www.heritagemakers.com/?event=projectBrowse&projectId=98484383-078c-42bc-b04e-29d8bf4f1db7&productId=11&projectSponsor=142544

Madyson's Book! Birth to 10 Years old...

2008-09-07T20:43:00.000-07:00

My Happy 4 Year Old!!

2008-09-07T20:31:00.000-07:00

So, Karter has known that I was working on a storybook for him about the first 4 years of his life, and he has been very anxious to have it published and HERE!

(Mady has been quite anxious as well!) I'll post hers too...

So on Friday both Madyson's and Karter's 12x12 books arrived! Karter's immediately disappeared--he has looked at it over and over. It is already sporting his fingerprints...I asked if I could take it to show some of my friends, and he cried! So I left it home with him. I will have to get my own copy, I believe!

I love the magic of storybooking with Heritage Makers! Don't you love how cute it is!

School's ON!

2008-08-24T18:03:00.000-07:00

School has started and life is again "organized." (In a chaotic sort of way.)

Arielle cheered at her first game this past weekend. Dixie won 21-3 over Springville, so that was happy!

Mekenze is in heaven now that dance has started full force. Auditions for the Christmas show were yesterday--she was gone all day long, which I'm sure made her day!

Curtis is doing dance still (mostly musical theater) but he also has tried out for the Washington County Football league. We're hoping we can make both work!

I'll have to post dance and football pictures when I get them, but I have some fun cheer photos! (I can't wait to start the Cheer Storybook, 2008-9!) The Dixie Cheerleaders attended cheer camp at Utah State College the week before school started and they won top banana! Top team! High honors! Great job girls!

Mady loves school. She has already missed two days--flu or something--and today she is working on the work she missed. She is also dancing, but can't wait to try basketball this year...

And Karter...he is wishing he was 5 so he could go to school. We are doing a Preschool of sorts with all the St. George pre-school aged cousins. Even baby Iyrlend came to our one and only class so far! We did art and ABC's and music and storytime and lunch. Good times!

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Fishlake Family Reunion

2008-08-13T21:19:00.000-07:00

We are going camping at Fishlake for our family reunion this weekend. It is the one tradition that seems to continue going forward in the Gene Gates family, thanks largely to Matt and Jenn and Chevia!

I am excited. I made these personalized playing cards with pictures and memories from past campouts at Fishlake and Gooseberry (Salina Canyon) Utah. I can't wait to show them to everyone and to play some fun card games while we are there!

4th of July

2008-07-19T22:54:00.000-07:00

We always have such a great time on the 4th of July! We look forward to it almost as much as we do Christmas!

First thing in the morning, Curtis goes with the scouts to put up flags. I am so thankful to the scouting program that teaches our boys respect for this amazing country. Then we go to Denny's for a yummy breakfast! After a couple of really hot hours at the Vernon Worthen park, we just chill at home until it's time for the Colgate Country Showdown. This year Mekenze's friend Delaney Westfall won it! It was so fun!

Fireworks always follow--a great way to finish up the day!

God Bless America!

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Look at my Happy Father's Day book

2008-06-16T16:02:00.000-07:00

OK, I can show it off now cuz it's not a secret anymore! The kids and I made Dave a cute, cute book for Father's Day. Check it out!

A Few of My Why's

2008-06-14T23:56:00.000-07:00

Summer is just as busy as any other time of the year at the Mac Home! Last week Mekenze and Curtis spent 8 hours a day, Monday thru Friday at a Diamond Talent Triple Threat intensive musical theater workshop. They absolutely love it!

Madyson had her workshop this past week. I realized as I watched her last day of class--She has grown up so much! When I figure out how to download video, I will post it. I videoed it instead of still pics cuz Dave couldn't come.

Arielle is finally home after visiting Davi and Chevia for 10 days. Davi took pictures of Arielle--they are so gorgeous! Next month she will begin cheer...how exciting!

Opportunities like this are the reasons I do the things I do--the craziness is all for a reason! Watching my kids perform is what drives me!

Summer Fun

2008-06-14T23:35:00.000-07:00

Craziness in the water can sure be fun! This weekend we were invited by Dave's Isagenix partner/mentor/best friend Lenny to go boating at Sand Hollow Reservoir/Quail Creek. He rented a boat and a wave runner and we drove about20 mnutes (or less even) to this beautiful oasis for a couple of fun hours in the sun!

Not all of our family was able to go. Curtis was at Scout Camp (still--a whole week long!) and Mekenze was at a friend's party. I stayed in the boat behind the camera, just enjoying the ride, but here a some photos of the rest of us!

This is going to make a fun book!~

Summer Time!

2008-06-05T21:56:00.001-07:00

I remember summertime when I was growing up. Each of us (7 kids all together) would take turns going to stay with Grandma Leany. It was the highlight of the summer! Of course the best part was when it was my turn, but taking a close second was when "my annoying brothers" would have their turns! Sometimes they even went together-- And that was heaven! The house was quiet and somewhat sane with just the "girls" at home (and Zach, the perfectly cute baby brother who could do no wrong).

I asked Mom one time if she didn't just love when some of the kids (I was eluding especially to Matt and Tim) were gone. Life had to be easier for her! Imagine how shocked I was when she told me that she missed them and couldn't wait until they came home!

Well, now I am a mom. It is summer. Last week, Curtis went camping with his friend for a couple of days and Arielle left a day later to stay with her cousin, Chevia (Matt's daughter). Now that Curtis is home, he and Mekenze have been gone from 9-5 all week long doing a Triple Threat intensive musical theater workshop. Arielle is still gone--now staying at my sister Davi's house--and will most likely be gone another week! Curtis goes to scout camp all next week, then Mady starts Triple Threat...then Girls' Camp and Youth Conference....Can I just tell you that I MISS MY KIDS! I understand how Mom felt!

I'm sure that after June is over and all the individual travels and workshops are over, chaos will return and I will be praying for my turn to leave, but it does feel good to know that I do have the ability to miss my kids, and that my mom probably really missed me! She wasn't "just saying..."

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2008-03-12T20:26:00.000-07:00

Hey! So I decided to join the blog party! Everyone's doin' it! ha ha

Actually, the one that finally got me started was my Sister in law Bret and her husband--my brother--Zach. They have the cutest little blogspot with sweet pictures of her pregnant self and a 3-D picture of their baby to be. (Oh, and Zach has a sexy photo too, not to be left out...) She is the cutest pregnant person!

In fact, I have lots of cute pregnant sisters (or recent new mom sisters). I am posting a few pics of my new neice, Graeci, and even newer nephew, Beckham. Too bad I was done having babies about 4 years ago--well, probably not too bad. I am happy to hold these sweet things and then give them back!

My own cute ones, not to leave them out, are now 16, 14, 12, 10 in a week and a half, and 4. They sure do keep me hoppin'! I am posting a picture of them too so that they feel the love.