tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4865479278097947472024-02-20T07:56:26.553-07:00Be Loyal & True to the Royal Within You!Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.comBlogger581125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-78924516434226944272013-08-18T10:16:00.002-06:002013-08-18T10:16:32.676-06:00Changes Are Coming<div align="center">
First, I want to begin by thanking those of you who have expressed to me that you miss reading my blog posts. Honestly, in my head, I always felt that I had 1 reader, me! Thank you for encouraging me and reminding me of a love I have of documenting my life. My flame for blogging is igniting and I am ready to start up again.</div>
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I am however, going to be making a lot of changes in the very near future. </div>
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I am not happy with blogger AT ALL!</div>
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I don't like that I have to post my pics to an online photo program to post them on my blog. It then makes me post them to a social media site that I do not want to be a part of so anyone can look at them. Grrr! Not that I have any pictures that I would be ashamed of, but for privacy and copyright protection, this is a terrible method.</div>
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Second, blogger puts limits on my bandwidth and data concerning pictures and size of pictures. I can understand where they are coming from when it is a free product, but it limits me in what I want to do. If I am going to pay, then I will pay for what I want, own it outright and not be forced into any other programs to make a post.</div>
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With that said, I have had a ton of people talk to me, contact me, email me, text me about some of the recipes they see me eating. I would really love to share everything I know and make it easy for all parties to have access to this information. This blog site is not the best format for this purpose.</div>
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So, in the next couple of weeks, I have started my own website that will help me accomplish all of the goals I have set out to do. I am WAY excited! There are so many wonderful changes happening that I am tickled pink about them all. </div>
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Until I get all my ducks in a row, here are a few updates of some things that I have been up to this summer! </div>
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1. I have been cooking a lot more at home! I have been exploring making my own healthy meals and snacks and have been having a ball (literally, see below) doing it. Below our my Super Protein Seed Chocolate Balls. You keep them frozen and it is a cold chocolate fix that is UNBELIEVABLE! I have so many more wonderful recipes that I am so excited to share. I just purchased 3 knives, onion goggles and herb shears to add to my culinary skills. Just you wait, Henry Higgins! I just may be able to make much more than toast in the next few months! ;)</div>
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2. I am loving my own garden, local gardens and farms. This bowl below was given to me by my neighbor who has a garden a little bit bigger than mine and she owns chickens. I took her my protein balls and she offered me coconut milk avocado ice cream. Which was UNBELIEVABLY DELICIOUS! As I am leaving her house, she sends me home with a bowl of fresh eggs, peppers and plums. In return, I offer her to have free will to my cilantro and anything else in my garden. What I love about gardening and farming is that there is an abundance and it creates a desire in the community to share. Last week, Utah Natural Meats had an abundance of produce left over and Shayn drove his draft horses with a wagon giving away fresh produce to our neighborhood. We were not home so I missed out. But as I spent time with Kristen this week, people were complimenting and thanking her like crazy on the fresh, delicious produce! Plants can soften the hearts of the people!</div>
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3. We had our annual backyard camp out. Shaeler wanted her own tent and so she set up her lady bug tent next to Brian's tent. We watched movies out on the tent and I lasted until oooohhhhhh 11:00 pm and then bailed to go inside and sleep on my own comfy bed. Chloe was extremely upset that she could not join us in the festivities and whined at the back door for part of the evening. Shae moved into my nice, soft, -35 degree bag that Brian bought for me at Girls Camp and I slept peacefully in my own bed with Chloe tucked at my side.</div>
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As soon as I have everything ready, I will post my new website name and you will be able to find me over in a happier place of the world wide web!</div>
<br />Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-2747096491332934602013-06-04T16:39:00.000-06:002013-06-04T16:39:56.424-06:00The Start of Something New<div align="center">
On May 30, 2103, Shae had her last day of school and I had my last day of my job........kind of.</div>
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And so we celebrated over the weekend. </div>
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Shaeler and I have a tradition where we go downtown to have lunch on the last day of school. We ate at the Lion House Pantry, we shopped at the Disney store and Claires, we got cookies at Ruby Snap and we went to the temple.</div>
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As the weekend rolled around, I have been working hard on my yard and dog gone it, I am going to have my garden this year. The weeds are evil. I knew if I plugged at it everyday, I would get it under control. So far, I have 9/10 of it done. The garden is clean and has been tilled and I am ready to plant!</div>
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Saturday, Shaeler and her buddies decided they would help me clean the house. The scrubbed toilets, vacuumed, dusted, clean mirrors and mopped. As a token of my gratitude, I took the ladies to Baskin Robbins for a treat. Alas, I did not partake! If that isn't proof of my dedication to not have ice cream, then I don't know what else to say. I received a lot of pleasure in the ice cream mustaches.</div>
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Brian and I took them to Jump'n Bounce the night before, so I pretty much rank as the coolest mom ever! ;) Proof is in the pudding. They cleaned my house the next day!</div>
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Saturday night, the Hendrickson's came over to visit as Chad fixed our computer. So wonderful to have their company and have heart felt talks. They are an amazing family and we are so blessed to call them our dear friends. Thank you to Chad because now I have the Internet back on my desktop computer. Woowee! Thank you Ann for trusting me to share your heart. Great things are coming your way, I know it!</div>
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Monday was my first "official" day home and handling the Rentmeister Construction and Rentmeister Electric work. What I thought would be a very calm day, turned out to be very busy. So much happening in building the spec home and so many details to decide. Now we are at the hard stuff to choose. Tile, granite, cabinet colors, paint colors, and on and on. At one point I had the thought, "wait a minute, I feel busier than I was at my old job." Dang it! Well, at least I cut the commute out, right?</div>
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I am most excited about the new personal things that I am doing in my life. It's all part of the healing process, and being home is helping me heal some emotional wounds. I am getting stronger every day. Something new has started and I cannot wait to travel down this road. There is great joy in this journey and I am so blessed!</div>
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<br />Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-41301970107485398042013-04-30T11:14:00.001-06:002013-04-30T11:14:47.670-06:00The Sanctity of Women and MothersI don't know why, but for the last few months, I have been thinking a ton about my role as a woman and a mother. Bear with me as I just throw out random thoughts.<br />
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There is definitely a war on women that has increased dramatically over the last 5 years. I can see it, feel it and sadly witness it every day of my life. There is very little sanctity and reverence for women and the role of mothers and wives.<br />
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I know for myself, my role as a mother is what I am hardest on myself about. I have been given the gift of one child and I so desperately don't want to look back and have any regrets. I have been blessed to mother one of God's divine daughters and it is my nature that she deserves only the best from me.<br />
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Last night, we had a family home evening with some of our dear friends and Sister B. We gathered to hear her story of surviving World War II. She is from Germany and was 6 years old when the war started. Her family was LDS at that time, but it was not the Nazi's they feared, it was the Russians and the Polishes (?) that made them run and flee for their lives multiple times. She shared stories of sleeping in ditches, seeing dead bodies all the time, her hometown being completely bombed, her mother being taken to be raped and murdered and then a divine hand changed the soldiers mind and sent her mother back to take care of her children. She talked of farmers who took them in and sleeping on the ground with straw for months. She calmly explained how multiple family members had passed away and how her mother would figure out how and where to bury them. Her grandfather was buried in a farmer's field with no casket and they buried him with as much dirt and rock as they could by hand so the animals would not try to dig him up. She talked about how they had no food and their 2 year old brother slowly died from starvation. Their mother was able to get a small white casket for him and he was able to be buried in a garden. A few weeks later, her grandmother died and bloated up with water. As they were taking her casket to a cemetery, they pushed her casket in a 2 wheel cart and water seeped out of the casket and left a trail. She lost an Aunt who she believes died in a concentration camp. She was hit by a car by 3 Russian soldiers and a nurse. She had a 4 week hospital stay and was taken out before she was completely healed because they were being kicked out of the country again. She got gangrene on her arm and the bone was not set correctly. They wanted to amputate her arm, but her mother slowly saved her arm by placing chamomile leaves on it as they were fleeing the country. They were placed on 1 of 2 trains to go into Chekoslavakya (sp?) and after their trained passed over a bridge, the second train did not make it over the bridge. I was later told that she could hear the screams of the people as the second train fell. <br />
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We sat in awe of this wonderful woman as she shared her life experiences. When she was done, I asked her what helped her heal through such traumatic experiences? She said 3 things:<br />
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First, her mother. Her mother had incredible strength and never gave up even in their darkest moments. <br />
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Second, their faith. Her mother had a strong faith in the church and she loved to sing in the ward choir. When they were able to finally settle with a small community in Chekoslavakya (sp?), her mother taught Primary for many years and the children loved her testimony and her music. Her mother held strong in the church even after her husband abandoned her and the children to serve in the military and had multiple relationships. As they were running, her mother always had their Book of Mormon with them.<br />
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Third, was the music. They would sing Hymns and songs from their mother to help them get through. She said the music always brought joy and they loved to sing.<br />
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All 3 still tie back to the influence of a righteous mother. Sister B showed us her scars on her arm and she is living proof of endurance, hope and love. I was inspired by her life and determination and her mother's example. It was a mother's love that saved them all. <br />
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I reflect now back to myself, and I am reflecting on how my love could help and strengthen my daughter in the war on her, myself and women in general. Thank you Sister B! I have had some very strong impressions come to me. Now, if I could just have the same courage to act upon them!Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-63789077196618719732013-04-16T11:40:00.001-06:002013-04-16T11:40:34.065-06:00So much~Life has been quite the adventure for us lately! So many wonderful blessings and experiences. I fear this post could turn into a novel. So I will keep it brief and to the point that I can. April is my absolute favorite time of the year and I am enjoying every day that I can. The funniest part about 2013, is that it has been a year of new experiences and adventures. I find myself saying all the time that this is a first for me and I have found so much joy in it all. Here is my list of "firsts" so far:<br />
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Shrimp - love</div>
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Avocado's - Madly in love</div>
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Salmon - love</div>
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Brazil Nuts- love</div>
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Pumpkin Seeds -love</div>
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Green Powder - love</div>
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Sauna's -Madly in love</div>
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Yoga - love</div>
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Zumba - love</div>
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Tennis ball massages - love</div>
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Dressing your Truth - love</div>
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Child Whisperer - Madly love</div>
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Cooking with the radio blaring - Madly love</div>
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Shooting a gun - kind of like....</div>
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New skin care and lotions - Madly love</div>
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The Blood Sugar Solution - Madly love</div>
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Vegetable broth - kind of like...</div>
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A purposeful effort to only see the good in others - love</div>
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Bangs - like</div>
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Walking on a frozen lake - no likey</div>
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Working with a herbalist - Madly love</div>
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Ashawaganda - love</div>
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Instantly forgiving - love</div>
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Talking to my hero's - Madly love</div>
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Audible.com - Madly love</div>
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<strong>Rentmeister Construction </strong>has broken ground for the new spec home. We were able to get the plans approved and we immediately started digging a hole. Yesterday, the foundation walls were poured and we will move on to the waterproofing, the window wells and then back filling the dirt. In about 2 weeks, they will start framing. Very exciting!!<br />
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<strong>General Conference</strong> was a very spiritual weekend for me. A couple of days before, my presidency and I drove down to the conference center and were taught at the feet of the General YW Presidency. Literally. We sat on the front row, directly in front of the podium. If you go and watch the online training, you can see my head directly below Sister Dalton. IT.WAS.AMAZING!!! Afterwards, I explained to my friends that I needed a moment. With all of my courage, I walked on stage and talked directly and individually to Sister Cook, Sister Dibb and Sister Dalton. It was a sacred moment for me that I will never forget. I expressed my sincerest gratitude and love to these women. I am sure that I don't understand all that they have sacrificed and worked so hard to help me in what I am doing, and I felt a very strong impression to let these women know that they changed my life and I will always love and adore them.<br />
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We also took Shaeler to the Conference Center for the first time on the Saturday Afternoon session. The greatest thing happened while we were there. We ran into Audrey, Natalie, Lance and Miranda and so we sat together as a family at the Conference Center. We were able to have dinner at the Blue Lemon (BEST SALMON OF MY LIFE) and then drive home in tears because mom and dad did not buy Shae something at the Disney store. Oy vey!<br />
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We gave our Sunday tickets to friends who wanted to take their son for the first time and so together as a family, we vegged out in the Sun room and watched conference together. You know what makes conference even better? Popcorn! <br />
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<strong>Stake Young Women Presidency</strong> was very busy this week as it was our Leadership training for our ward presidencies. We made fresh chicken sandwich croissants with veggies and fruit as sides. Shauna made Lemon cookies and Brother Burt was gracious to cut lemons and limes for me with a dull (my finger nail is sharper) knife. We stayed together and everyone did their best to cut down their time so we were short and powerful. I was so pleased with the evening and I think we expressed our hearts desires for the wards. LOVE my YW color flags that we hang up! I am so blessed to work with the women that I do. They are my sisters in the gospel and it is so fun to work with them, laugh with them and grow with them. <br />
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As we are planning Girls Camp, I am so excited for all the amazing ideas and events that are coming forward. Wallsburg project was approved and we are making the camp ground a much better place and that is the coolest thing ever!<br />
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On Saturday, I was invited to attend an Endowment Session of a dear young women whom I love and adore. This kid has been called to serve a mission in New Mexico. I am so proud of her! What an amazing moment to sit next to her and watch as she was making covenants with the Lord. It was one of the crowning moments as a young woman leader. Getting them to the temple is what Young Women's is all about. I was blown away by the Spirit and the experience. One I will never forget.<br />
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<strong>On the health front</strong>, we are all doing a lot better. Shaeler has not thrown up in over a month (knock on wood) and she is being very good about trying new healthy foods. She understands better the needs of proteins in her meals and asks for them to help balance out her plate. Brian is also doing fantastic! He eats healthy, workouts out a couple times a week and has lost 14 pounds. He is looking so much healthier and he is feeling a ton better too. Just got to get that guy to handle stress a little bit better. I am plugging along with my health also. It has been 3 months on Thursday that I stopped eating sugar, dairy and gluten. CRAZY, huh? So many aspects of my health has improved tremendously. I feel so very blessed for my health and strength. There are a few things that are still bothering me that I am starting to get help with. I am so excited for the help and support.<br />
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Part of being healthy is doing something you love. Well, I love clothes, makeup and hair and Jessica got me sucked into Living your Truth. I can't stop reading about the 4 energy types and how they dress, do their hair etc. It's addicting! A ton of fun and some great conversations with so many women, I am stunned. Who knew that we all love to know our type and then analyze each other. Lots of fun! Highly recommend reading the books! Call me if you want to know my true type! Ha!<br />
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Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-46252468806289383222013-04-01T17:50:00.000-06:002013-04-01T17:50:31.162-06:00Sweet is the Feeling<div align="center">
We had an amazing weekend and Easter. </div>
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As you already know, we celebrate Easter all week, starting with Palm Sunday and go throughout the entire week. As Shaeler is getting older, I am able to do some activities that really get her thinking. We still play and have fun, but Palm Sunday really got to her this year.</div>
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When the Savior entered Jerusalem, the people shouted "Hosanna" and laid palm branches in front of the Savior's path. We went into a lot of detail about the how important spiritually and physically the Palm branches symbolism is in this story. The people gave to the Savior something that was of great value to them on many levels. </div>
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As a family, we talked about if the Savior was coming tomorrow to our home, what would we do and give to him to honor Him. There was a moment that Shae got emotional as to the great sacrifice we would be willing to give if we really wanted to honor who He is and what He has done. </div>
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I'm hoping it was a "wheat stroke" moment in our family painting.</div>
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We drove down to the cabin Wednesday afternoon. As per my request, we stopped at the Young Living Family Farms to check out their oils and business. It was a neat little stop and I was able to purchase hand sanitizer for me and Kristen that is toxic free and healthy for you!</div>
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The weather down at the cabin was beautiful! I always dread Easter in March, especially when we are at the cabin because it means two things: snow and cold.</div>
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This year, we were in the 60's everyday. We played, hiked, swung and had a ton of fun.</div>
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Brian had me shoot the gun for the first time while we were down there. It was hard emotionally and physically, especially when you do not know what to expect. I loaded the gun, shot a bullet and then unloaded the gun and made sure that I went through all the proper safety steps to make sure that the gun was fully unloaded. It is a pattern I want to become comfortable with. SAFETY FIRST and ALWAYS!</div>
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Friday, we drove into Bryce Canyon and dropped Brian and his dad off on their bikes for a 42.5 mile bike ride back to the cabin. The others drove up into Bryce to hike around and Joyce, Shaeler and I stayed behind, did a little shopping, ate some lunch and then found the boys and kept tabs on them to make sure they made it home safely. </div>
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They had a great ride!</div>
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When it comes to the toys and eggs, we celebrate that part on Saturday. Shaeler wanted Legos and Swedish fish. That was all. I threw in a couple extra things that I thought she might enjoy! When the cousins gathered around to disperse the candy from the egg hunt equally, Shaeler turned down the opportunity and passed on having a bag full of candy. Later when we got home, I asked her why she didn't want any of the candy. She explained to me that being in the "No Cavity Club" meant more to her than eating candy at that time. WOW!! Who is this kid?? 8 going on 30?? That was a very mature decision to make and stick to. SO PROUD OF MY GIRL!!</div>
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Shae brought home a book from her school about princesses and it had a few craft items that she wanted to make down at the cabin. She made this princess door knob sign that hung on our bedroom door.</div>
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Shaeler dumped out her Easter basket! Awesome!</div>
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A picture of our Love One Another board. I love doing this every year as it sets a very loving and sweet spirit at the cabin.</div>
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Wall to wall beds upstairs! Brian and I and Mark and Natalie got new beds this Easter. Brand new queen size mattresses!! I was in heaven. I put a down quilt and extra pillows on our bed. Now our room downstairs looks like a hotel suite. Just need to get a lamp!</div>
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Year after year, we head down to the cabin and I notice the smallest changes here and there.</div>
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I take this shot every year. It will be interesting to do a comparison after a 20 year period. Some things are the same and some things are different.</div>
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That is exactly how it is for our family Easter each year. Some things we do the same (money egg, dutch oven potato's and ham, LOA poster) and some things need to change with the seasons. I took a different perspective with my nieces and nephews for their spiritual lessons this year. I focused on the family. We did some really great activities that they participated in and I hope they got a lot out of it. I cherish the moments of laughter, the moments of closeness and the moments that I can help bring the Spirit. How grateful I am for the opportunity to teach during the Easter weekend. </div>
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There is a change happening in me. It is hard to describe, but it is something very good. I am putting all my trust in the masters hands and I know that he can mold me into what he knows that I can be. Like the picture above, I am the same, but there are very subtle changes happening that I know are directly from my Father above.</div>
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HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE!</div>
<br />Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-60441492750779134592013-03-21T14:28:00.000-06:002013-03-21T17:02:44.664-06:00Plant Food Kool-AideWhen I was younger, I got to spend a lot of time at my grandparents house. Both my sister and I agree that forever in our minds will be the unforgettable time of being at grandma's house, sitting on the back porch, eating popcorn and fresh apples watching the airplanes fly by, with Johnny Carson playing in the background. I am very grateful that I had so many opportunities and time to spend with my grandparents. This is why I am such a huge advocate for Shaeler to spend as much time as possible with her grandparents. <br />
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One memory that I never want to forget, is the time that my cousin Lacey and I mistakenly eaten plant food one night as we were having a sleep over at Grandma Henrie's house. As a child, sleeping over at grandma's house was fantastic, especially if my cousin Lacey would be there too. <br />
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I believe I was about 5 or 6 years old in this particular memory. Grandma had just given us our bath that we shared together, all us kids. When you took a bath at grandma's there were always 4 things that stood out. A) soap bar B) Wash cloth) C) a pitcher full of water and D) some fabric art decor that hung above the toilet of a grandma bathing in a bubbly bathtub and a grandpa bathing in a bubbly bathtub, to which we swore were arts of them personally. I can hear her words echo in my ears to be sure to wash my elbows, knees and behind my ears with the soap and washcloth. Once that was complete, we would shampoo and condition our hair. We would take our washcloths and fold then properly to cover our eyes as grandma poured the warm water over our heads with the pitcher. Just thinking about that moment of feeling the water pour over my head and remembering the joy and happiness I felt being taken care of by my grandmother is so very precious to me.<br />
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So after our bath, grandma was kind enough to curl both Lacey's and my hair into the pink sponge curlers. What a treat! Beautiful curly hair was worth the high price of a restless night sleeping on the plastic sponge curlers, let me tell you. Grandma had curled our hair and we were off playing in the house in our jammies and curlers. At some point, we got hungry and headed for the kitchen to find some sort of sweet snack to sneak. <br />
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We found a closed packet that looked like a Kool-aide packet and opened it to taste the surge of concentrated sweetness that had not yet been diluted down by water. We licked our fingers, stuck it in the packet and were utterly surprised by the sugar rush and sweetness. With our cravings satisfied we headed back down stairs to play. <br />
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The next thing I remember is both my grandparents yelling at us to come upstairs and admit who had opened the plant food packet! Neither one of us wanted to admit our transgression until finally one of my grandparents saw our guilt ridden fingers covered with the red dye. Instantly, we were rushed to the bathroom and commanded to try and throw the plant food up or we would be poisoned. Shocked and scared, Lacey and I knelt in front of the same toilet and tried to dry heave up the poisonous plant food. I didn't feel sick, other than at that moment, I was sick because I thought I was in big trouble and going to DIE! We came up with the brilliant idea to try and poop it out, since the vomiting was unsuccessful. Our two little bums shared the seat and we sat there for what felt like hours trying to save our selves from poisonous plant food streaming through our bodies. <br />
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With tears and humility, grandma let us out of the bathroom, with a full assurance that if we felt sick to immediately tell her and to NEVER sneak food from the kitchen ever again. The night was long as I was not looking forward to the morning when my parents would come and pick us up to find out that their daughter had been very disobedient and was close to the brink of death. <br />
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I prepared myself mentally before my parents arrived. I was going to take whatever punishment would follow and count my blessings that I was still breathing the next day. My mom and dad showed up and I waited and waited for my grandma to tell the story. She never did!<br />
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I still believe that night we really ate Kool-aide and grandma jumped on the opportunity to teach us a lesson about sneaking food. Either the woman was completely brilliant or has a sick sense of humor, which either way, I will happily inherit both traits from her!Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-68851794546307812262013-03-11T10:27:00.000-06:002013-03-11T10:27:01.568-06:00So EXCITING!!<div align="center">
So many wonderful and exciting things happening around here. Since we have been home, we have finally been able to really start revving up the engines for the things we want to accomplish this year. So, I will share with you all the exciting things going on per family member!</div>
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<u><strong>Shaeler</strong></u></div>
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Shaeler is so excited for the warm weather and for school to be over with. She is out playing outside and begging for the trampoline to be put up. Love to see her outside playing and enjoying the warm weather. </div>
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I believe I have finally had a break through with the mysterious random dry heaving problem she has every once and a while. I believe she may have a gluten/whole wheat sensitivity. She seems to have the problems when she specifically has whole wheat bread. You have no idea what a blessing it will be to know what is causing her random dry heaving issues. </div>
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So I am working with her to cut out almost all gluten for a while, especially whole wheat, and then reintroduce to see if she has a reaction, specifically that one. She absolutely LOVES taking her probiotics and loathes, (literally whines and gnashes of teeth) at the sight of her vitamin. Baby steps, I keep telling myself.</div>
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She also had a visit to the dentist this week. The good news is that the broken tooth is doing very well other than a little discoloration. That can be fixed with whitening her teeth when she gets a little older. The bad news, she has been red flagged for possible cavities for her next visit. So, we bought floss and fluoride rinse and she is taking the responsibility to prove her dentist wrong at her next visit. I'm cheering her along, we have too much fun together in the No Cavities Club!</div>
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We also had her Parent Teacher Conference this week. Shaeler is doing very well at school. Both teachers did comment that Shaeler has so much potential but she does what is required of her and does not stretch herself further. So, I am working on teaching her to go the extra mile with the things that she loves. It's hard teaching children ambition and motivation. Anybody got any helpful hints of doing extra work? Trust me, we work her at home. Interesting balance to figure out.</div>
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<strong><u>Brian</u></strong></div>
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Brian has been plugging away at running his company. The winter months can be hard as most of the time things get slow. It's a bittersweet feeling during those months because he gets frustrated when he has no work, but I enjoy the time together and usually he does projects around the house to keep himself busy. This year, he has been focusing on learning the systems that he installs in homes and installing them in our house so he is more familiar with them and can sell the systems even better. His little projects are amazing!</div>
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Non-electrical, he installed a water purifier in our home. I LOVE IT! My water tastes so good and I will carry my own bottles around with me because I can't stand the taste of other waters. It is amazing water!</div>
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Then he installed a remote that condenses ALL of our remotes down to one. So, when I want to watch a DVD, I push the Watch DVD button and it not only turns on the DVD Player, but also the sound system and the TV at the same time. It is really cool!</div>
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THEN</div>
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He installed a new wireless router when we switched over our Internet services. He made it that our home computers are all on the same, incredibly faster network and then when we have guests, we can give them a password and they are on our guest network. AMAZING!</div>
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THE LATEST</div>
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He installed a lighting system in my master bedroom that controls not only the light brightness but also can be set to come on and off at certain times and settings. Which also means, I can turn off my lights or turn on my bedroom fan from my IPAD or smart phone. SWEET!</div>
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Brian and I also signed the papers and purchased the land to build the first Rentmeister Construction Home. (Not a home for us, a home to sell!) It is a nice piece of land in Herriman and we pretty much have the plan picked out. So, now Brian's brain is on overload as to what are the next steps to get this house started. Our goal is to have it complete in 5 months. Oh vey, this is going to be a lot of fun! I am looking forward to the opportunities that this will bring!</div>
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Brian also saw the fabulous health benefits I have been having with my reading and implementing of healing my body and has joined me in my health adventures!. In a little less than one week, he lost 4 pounds. It is so much fun to teach and talk with him about health and food. I love the moments when he says that he did not eat the sugars and treats when he was tempted. How great would it be if we could help him with his Ulcerative Colitis!?! I am cheering him on the whole way!</div>
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<strong><u>Me</u></strong></div>
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I am continuing on my quest for joy in this life. I could go on and on about the changes I have been making, but I won't bore you with the details. I can honestly say I feel a lot better than I did 6 weeks ago. I am gaining so much knowledge and I am in awe of the body and it's abilities. </div>
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I have really been focusing my efforts in being selective of my time and activities. I have started cooking like crazy. I make things thinking that everyone will hate it and it actually turns out really tasty. Here are some of the recipes that I made and loved this week:</div>
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Black Bean and Corn Salad</div>
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Shrimp Kabobs</div>
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Homemade Guacamole</div>
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Turkey Apple Breakfast Sausage Patties</div>
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Roasted Red Potato's</div>
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Sweet Potato cubes with Cinnamon and Red Pepper</div>
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I am so not a cook, but there is something words cannot describe that feels special when I cook for my family. It takes time, but it is also very fulfilling. I love that I am feeding my family with wholesome food and we sit together every night to eat as a family. For the first time, I feel like I am fulfilling my role as a nurturer. I love to put my apron on and cook now!</div>
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I feel very blessed with my calling right now. It has become a very sacred time in my life and I am trying to enjoy the moments as I know that this will only be for a season. I also have felt that this year, we have begun the projects that are going to change lives and bring joy to the Young Women. As we work on Girls Camp, I giggle and smile the whole time. We have an AMAZING committee of women and we have some FABULOUS plans for camp. What I am loving most is finally being able to let go of the control. I am a firm believer in teaching the principles and doctrines and then allowing individuals to make their choices from there. I love to watch growth in others and being a very small part in the influence for good. What an amazing opportunity I have been given!<br />
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Besides my research and studying, I have been reading other books. I read Drops of Gold by Sarah Eden and I am currently reading the Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin.<br />
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Drops of Gold is an Austin era type book and it is pretty good. Not one of my favorites, but not a waste of time either. <br />
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The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin is fascinating! His life teaches so many common sense lessons, that he is a great mentor to follow in life. I highly recommend reading this one.<br />
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Crazy that March is almost half way done. Where does the time go? </div>
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Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-5911249348341665252013-03-03T19:36:00.001-07:002013-03-03T19:36:44.013-07:00Home Again, Jiggity Jig!<div style="text-align: center;">
We are Home!! </div>
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We went on vacation for the longest time since Shaeler was born! Seriously!</div>
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My mom and dad bought us all tickets for a cruise. So off we went as a family to get away, rest and relax.</div>
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We left a few days early to play in St. George and it was FREEZING there. We went miniature golfing outside and then spent most of the time inside. In St. George we did a little shopping, ate out and then sat in the hot tub. I now know that I have a sensitivity to chlorine as my entire abdomen broke out in a rash. Boo! We also went to church in St. George and made it to a Branch that is created for those who "fly south for the winter." It was very interesting to observe and I actually enjoyed the sincerity and depth of appreciation as elderly gentlemen blessed and passed the sacrament. </div>
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We had a short stay in Vegas and then it was off to California! Before we boarded the ship, we had lunch at Bubba Gump's per Brian's request. I ordered a vegetable and shrimp kabob and it was delicious. I am now a shrimp eater.</div>
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The cruise was a lot of fun. Shaeler got a head cold the second day into it because she got too cold from swimming in the pools and it was a bit cool on the ship. She was fine until dinner and then she would be so tired from the days activities, that she would want to go to bed by the middle of dinner. Even skip dessert if she could.</div>
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We had so many laughs and giggles together as a family. It took some adjusting for me to not be able to freely eat the cakes, cookies, ice cream cones etc. However, don't feel bad, I brought my 100% cocoa bar with me to hit the sweet spots when needed. </div>
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The cruise line itself was very pleasant. No fires, no poop running down the hall, no stomach plague break outs. etc etc. We had excellent service and everyone on the ship was very nice. I found a lot of peace in eating in the places where either myself or the waiter was the only one near the food. I am not one that is big on buffet style and now I know how and where to go for eating peace. Although, the meals that were served buffet style were actually very good also.</div>
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Brian and I went para sailing in Catalina! Mark that off my bucket list! He actually recorded the ride on his GoPro and he is looking for music to add to it for our viewing pleasure. Hopefully, he can get that up soon! Also new to my life, I ate salmon and I liked it! WHAT?? I know, right?</div>
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Shaeler had a ball and was given money to buy souvenirs. We agreed that she could buy whatever she wanted, but when she was out of money, then she was out. She had 1/3 of it spent before we even got on the boat. She bought another stuffie, a journal and then in Catalina she bought a samba skirt. See picture above. She wiggled and jingled everywhere we went. HELP ME! People would come up to her all the time and say that every little girl should have a skirt like that. I beg to differ. This skirt fits in the same category as the electric pianos grandparents buy for little toddlers. Oh vey! Sometimes I would "put her skirt away" so she would forget about it when getting dressed in the morning. Sure enough, she would find it and put it on again. My life is a gift!</div>
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We are so grateful for my mom and dad giving us this wonderful gift. Thank you for your generosity, your time in watching Shaeler and your love. We appreciate you guys and are so grateful for this wonderful Christmas present! Thank you!</div>
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Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-90947363993781257942013-02-21T16:27:00.004-07:002013-02-21T16:27:56.727-07:00Join Our Family<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-529372855599982862013-02-20T10:53:00.001-07:002013-02-20T10:53:37.694-07:00Small Steps, Big StridesI was invited to attend a Girls Night Out Party that was held in my neighborhood. Two very valiant women throw little parties to help the women in our neighborhood get to know one another better. This party was about a chocolate fountain. We sat and talked while eating dinner and then covered so many treats with chocolate. Of course, I am the weirdo that has to bring my own dinner and can't eat any of the treats, but that did not discourage me from going and mingling.<br />
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I swear, we have some of the coolest and neatest women in our neighborhood. But for some darn reason, we hide from each other. Every time I get to know someone new, I am always impressed with how amazing they are. Why is it we can live so close to one another and yet too busy to get to know each other. Everyone of us is different and unique in their own way. Everyone brings something of great value to our sisterhood table. <br />
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I am so grateful that I had this opportunity, although, I think I may never be invited again. Oh well! That doesn't mean I can't stop talking to people.<br />
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Chalk me up as one who does not like Valentines Day. Worst holiday ever when you can't eat sweets, you can't spend money and it is not a speciality that comes with the spouse. To all of you that had a wonderful Valentines Day, then good for you. For those who feel like I do, then don't ruin it for others. Let them have their day and join me in making the other 364 days a year sheer joy and love.<br />
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I have found out that I have a peanut sensitivity. Ate some peanuts over the weekend and bam, I had a couple of rashes! Say goodbye to Reeses Peanut Butter Cups for a long time. BOOO!! On the other hand, as I have been doing a ton of reading, researching, implementing and following some new health guidelines, I have lost quite a bit of weight in the last month. Very exciting! Scared to death that I may have a food allergy to gluten and dairy. That would mean no more bread and ice cream for me! AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!<br />
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Oh the humanity! I wouldn't be me without the ice cream! I would seriously have an identity crisis. Stay tuned! We just got a new ice cream maker yesterday. That's ok, I know how to work the system. There are ways. I will share with you that I did figure out on Valentine's Day to have a treat that is insanely healthy and sooo good.<br />
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I melt 1/2 ounce of 100% Cocoa in a glass dish.<br />
I add 1/4 of pomegranate seeds in the glass with chocolate and swirl around until they are completely covered with chocolate. Then, I lay then out on a plate and place them in the refrigerator until they have hardened. VOILA!! <br />
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The sweetness of the pomegranates counter the bitter of the chocolate and as I have always claimed: Chocolate is best when cold! With the flavonal from the chocolate and the phytonutrients of the pomegranate, it is an awesome treat with a healthful punch. <br />
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In other news, I also experienced my first Sauna last week! HELLO!! It was like a little room of heaven. It took me about 10 minutes to even warm my bones up let alone start a sweat. For someone who is cold all the time and that has an average body temp of 97.6 (yes, I know, I working on the Thyroid issues), a Sauna feels like paradise. AND when I did break a sweat, I was dripping all over my body. Very rare for someone like me! Be gone Toxins!! Woohoo!<br />
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One other thing that needs to be mentioned. I started eating shrimp last week. HOLD THE PHONES! I know! As one who does not love fish or shrimp or crab or lobster, my palate actually likes shrimp. Brian says that I haven't reached the peak with shrimp until I have tried the cocktail sauce. You know, grilled with extra virgin olive oil and some sea salt is totally working it for me. It's quite shocking in my home right now! OH! and I had a veggie roll which was the first suishi I can claim that I REALLY LOVED! Seaweed?? That's right!<br />
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I know some of you are shaking your head right now thinking "Who Are You?" To which I reply:<br />
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I am a woman who is ready for growth, excellent health and new adventures.....that hopefully includes ice cream along the way!<br />
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Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-54424841825935734412013-02-13T18:00:00.001-07:002013-02-13T18:00:26.031-07:00Life as we know it!<br />
At the beginning of the week, Brian headed down to the cabin with his dad to install the new kitchen fawcett. They headed out late and so they decided to spend the night. So, Shae and I made it into a Girls Night Out with some shopping. We headed to the mall and bought her great grades build a bear. We then went and bought soap at Bed Bath and Beyond and then I bought some makeup at Nordstroms. She is definitely my daughter as she has loves to shop just like me. We came home and talked about media and entertainment for FHE. We had a great night just us girls. <br />
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Tis the season for New Beginnings! I have been doing lots of visits to see what all the creative and fun things the wards are up to. Love to see the YW shine! Not loving that I am missing over half of them when we go on vacation. Boo!<br />
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Brian and I were invited to a scouting dinner with President McBeth and his wife Janet. It was so much fun to be with them, the Stake YM president and his wife and Jessica, my 1st Counselor and her husband. Even better, we ran into Chad and Ann at the dinner too! AND Jeremy Sorenson who is a good friend also! It was a big party and free food. I couldn't eat most of it, but it was great to laugh with friends and get a lot of exposure to the scouting world. President Dalhquist spoke and he is such a great man!<br />
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Saturday we had Sister Linda Burton, General Relief Society President speak to us at our Stake Women's Conference. What an honor to have her there with us. I loved every minute of the meeting. Surrounded by some of my dearest friends and feeling the spirit is simply a celestial moment for me. Later that night, we went to dinner with the Bowlers and talked for a long time about all natural alternatives, my favorite being a Wallepini. Look it up, it's very cool!<br />
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Sunday was a marathon day for me. Started with a ward conference and then right into many meetings. I started at 12:30 and did not come home until 9:30. I was hungry and exhausted. I am still paying for Sunday. I hope we did some good in the world that day!Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-75996164208281757742013-02-03T20:25:00.001-07:002013-02-03T20:25:47.705-07:00Week HighlightsNot much happening over here. I will post the highlights of the week:<br />
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- 2 clean colons and Brian passed his colonoscopy with flying colors. Shae took his colon pictures to school for show and tell. She said her teacher was surprised and the kids giggled when they figured out what the colon does. To which Shaeler proudly exclaimed "you can laugh, but you have one too!" She was so proud of her dad.<br />
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- Brian has a reward system with one of his vendors. He had a ton of points from last year, and so we began shopping with his reward points. We got new pans, new ice cream maker, a locker bag for Brian to go to the gym and new sunglasses for Brian. Lots of fun to shop for free. Except, it took us so much longer because the "can't have" feeling was not on our brains. Funny how that works.<br />
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- I got Shaeler's report card last night. All EP's (excellent progress) in all of her studies and two 98%'s and the rest were all 100%. So proud of that kid. We asked her what she wanted as a reward? She exclaimed "Build-a-Bear". Oh man! The addiction continues on.<br />
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- I have found a new love in shopping at a grocery store called Sprouts. Everyone is so nice and the employees treat you like it is a neighborhood grocery store. Everything is whole foods and holistic and I love it. To which I bought my first "all natural" deodorant bar. Can I say, I LOVE IT! Yes, yes I can!<br />
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- Brian's new website is up and going. Feel free to check it out: <a href="http://www.rentmeisterelectric.com/">www.rentmeisterelectric.com</a><br />
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- I started Yoga this past week and I LOVE IT! The breathing alone is so good. I'm as flexible as a metal pole. Maybe one day I will make it as a yogi. See Kristen, the Subaru is rubbing off on me! HA!<br />
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That pretty much sums up the good stuff. I know, we are boring. But I truly love my life!Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-84592390321630256152013-01-28T10:54:00.001-07:002013-01-28T10:54:23.220-07:00Look Ma! It's Sunday and I'm Posting!**I started writing this Sunday afternoon, with the intent of finishing Sunday evening. I came home from an event with the WORST migraine I have had in over a decade. Hence why it is being posted on Monday.**<br />
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So many wonderful and exciting things happening this week.<br />
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- The countdown board for our cruise has reached a number that gets us giddy and yell "Woohoo" when we walk by it.<br />
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- I went an entire week without eating sugar and white flour. I thought I would turn into the Wicked Witch of the West, but actually found I was really quite pleasant and felt a lot better.<br />
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- I had a Presidency meeting on Wednesday and we are making decisions and changes that feel really good. It's about quality vs quantity and I am so very pleased with the discussions and decisions. I know I haven't talked much about my presidency on this blog, but I am truly honored to work with the women that I do. I think we all feel insufficient and unqualified of the tasks that have been asked of us. I can tell you that there is no greater joy then to watch these women take a responsibility that they feel that they cannot do and accomplish it and see not only the growth, but also the confidence within themselves. So very cool to be a part of. One of these days, I will tell you a bit more about them. Truly amazing women!<br />
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- We had our Oakcrest and Stake Camp Director meetings on Thursday night. Jodi did not believe that many people would show and not only did they fill all the chairs, but we had some standing. Best thing we did for that meeting was have young women bear testimony of Oakcrest. So proud of Jodi for her hard work and Shauna being her wing man. Jessica and I were in another room with all the ward camp directors/YW presidency member laying out the new vision of our Stake Camp we are holding this summer. We are doing a complete 180 degree difference in years past and we are so excited of what this will bring. Again, watching different members of the committee stand and teach was an amazing thing to watch. Different testimonies and experiences that are further helping our the Lord's cause. It was AWESOME! Once the camp directors understood what we were doing and trying to accomplish, the excitement in the room began to pick up. Jessica has been doing such a wonderful job in working with our committee and again, what a joy to see her confidence pick up in believing that she can do great things!<br />
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- I made a vegetable broth Friday night that I could not believe tastes really good. Reminds me of green bean juice. Here are the vegetables I boiled: onion, carrots, garlic, kale, parsnips, rutabaga, celery, seaweed, parsley, diakus(??), cilantro, shiataki mushrooms, winter squash, and others I am forgetting. Shae and Brian said the house stunk like curry. Boo!<br />
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- Saturday we went to Ellison's baptism. We drove quite the distance in dense fog. It was so worth it! There were many baptisms that morning and one of the participating wards was a Polynesian Ward. A group of women got up and sang a gorgeous song about walking in the footsteps of the Savior. I LOVE that the Polynesian culture has music ingrained in their souls. It reminded me of my dear friend, Salataima that I grew up with. Salataima had a voice that would knock your socks off and she sang in a group with some of my very best friends in High School. Sometimes, I would sing with Salataima as I sat next to her in choir. I loved to harmonize with her and found great confidence with her strong voice sustaining my weaker one. As I watched these beautiful women sing, I missed Salataima, but also felt it was a great honor and privilege to have been able to sing side by side with her.<br />
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I never regret going to a baptism. There is such a sweet Spirit that comes with this ordinance, especially with the children. We are so proud of Ellison and are so grateful that we were invited to attend.<br />
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- Saturday and Sunday we attended our Stake Conference. The messages were very clear for our Stake: Temple Work, Compassion, Missionary Work and Doctrines of Christ. Many of my dear friends spoke and they did an amazing job. I was lifted by their words of counsel and loved that I am motivated to do a little better. 2000 indexing names a month. GAME ON!Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-39257896497762672202013-01-22T17:40:00.003-07:002013-01-22T17:40:57.118-07:00My Week: The Cabin, Shae's Picnic and Brian is in ICU?<br />
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Last week went by so very quickly.</div>
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Tuesday night, I went to the Oakcrest Kick Off with Jodi and sat there shivering cold, shaking my head that Oakcrest is literally around the corner again. What? Where does the time go?</div>
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Thurdsday night we took Kristen out for her birthday. We went to Bucca Di Beppo aka Bibbity-bobbity-boo in my terminology.</div>
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We shared family style Italian and Kristen was brought a huge candola?? (large multiple candle holder) and was sung happy birthday to. I kept thinking my hair was going to start on fire. It didn't.....sigh of relief.</div>
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I love my dear friend, Kristen! There isn't anything in the world I wouldn't do for that kid!</div>
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While at Kristen's party, Brian sends me a text:</div>
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"Want to go to the cabin tomorrow?"</div>
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What??? A spontaneous getaway! Yes, please!</div>
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We drove down to the cabin because Brian was nervous that the pipes may have frozen and burst. His dad usually goes down to check on things, but the Rentmeister's have flown south to Arizona for a week getaway from the smog.....and the 4 degree weather.</div>
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So we packed for an over night trip and headed out the door.</div>
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We saw so much wildlife down there. We saw 2 Golden Eagles (pic above) and 5 Bald Eagles.</div>
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We saw a crazy amount of cattle and almost as much deer. We watched a deer get hit by a truck in front of us. We pulled over to see if we could help, as I watched the deer limp away. A driver of another truck stop too and pulled out a rifle to put the hurt deer down. I begged Brian to pull away quickly so I didn't have to watch. </div>
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I walked across my first frozen lake. Ottercreek is completely frozen over, so Brian and Shae wanted to go check it out. I was completely hesitant as I watched loved ones earlier slip and fall on the ice up by the cabin and didn't want to have any broken arms, wrists or elbows to have to deal with. Alas, Brian got me out on the ice and then I listened for the first time the sound of the ice cracking.</div>
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BOING! Seriously was the weirdest, most interesting thing to hear and feel.</div>
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Shaeler was in charge of her Faith in God picnic this weekend and since we had the spontaneous trip to the cabin, she brought the picnic with us. This kid LOVES going to the cabin!</div>
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For her picnic, she decided the food, decorations, went shopping, helped cook and clean up. She and I made flowers together that she laid on the blanket. She hung the streamers and we had hamburgers, french fries, clam dip, and shakes for her picnic. It was a lot of fun and she did a fabulous job!</div>
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The skies were a bright blue down at the cabin and the temperatures were in the 40's. We had originally planned to stay just over night, but because of the beautiful weather, we decided to stay a second day and spend it together as a family.</div>
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We drove into Marysville and texted Maddie that we wouldn't need her to babysit that night and that we were staying another night at the cabin. She texted back "OK" and then we drove back to the cabin laughing and giggling for the extra day of glorious rest and sunshine. </div>
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On Sunday, as we were driving home and came into cell phone coverage, both our phones starting ringing with messages and texts. "Call me when you get this message" on Brian's phone and a voice mail on my phone from Michelle "Suzanne, we are worried about you guys, please call me when you get this message."</div>
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Both Brian and I scratched our heads. We told Maddie that we were staying and she responded back saying that she got the message. So, we started calling everyone and no one picked up. Finally, Maddie called back with quite a story.</div>
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Apparently, the University of Utah Hospital called the Rentmeister house and asked for Audrey. She was not there so Michelle took the call. They told Michelle that they found her brother face down in the snow, not breathing. He was in ICU and someone needs to come to the hospital. She didn't hear the name correctly, all she heard was "your brother". She asked them where Shaeler and I were and they had no clue.</div>
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So with her brother in the ICU and Shae and I missing, Michelle called all of the family, including the Rentmeisters who are in Arizona for their vacation. Joyce and Grant had just sat down for dinner when they got the call. They threw money on the table, drove back to their trailer extremely upset and praying, loaded their trailer back on the truck and were ready to head home.</div>
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Brian's sisters were all a wreck too. They kept calling the hospital to verify the name, wondering to contact police since Shae and I were missing and all of them at home were upset, emotional and a wreck. </div>
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Finally, Shauna was able to verify as she was driving to the hospital that it was Audrey's brother that was hurt and that Audrey needed to go to the hospital. (Audrey is Brian's Navajo sister). Unfortunately, Audrey was not spared from the bad news. They called the Rentmeisters and told them not to come home and Brian had to call all of his family members to let them know we were just fine. </div>
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Joyce and Grant are still very emotionally struggling with this all. Thankfully, my side of the family was not included in the drama. We are just fine, but we appreciate the love that was shown if we would have really been hurt. </div>
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Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-45282622193788773012013-01-13T16:04:00.000-07:002013-01-14T16:06:25.364-07:00Lists, Salads, Snow Days and Being a GrandmaHello January! You have been an insanely weird month of stretching my abilities and sanity. Apparently, 2013 is a month of growth. With it being a week of no nightly assignments, I thought it would be a breeze. NOPE! It wasn't! I was working in my office every night until 8-9:00 pm. So many things going on and half the time I am just shaking my head.<br />
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We have begun the process of building a home. We drove around with a real estate agent at different properties on the west side of the valley. AND we did it in a snow storm. AWESOME! We think we have a few spots that we really like and now we will do our due diligence about the property, the neighborhood and the city. Loads of fun! We also have made a list of all the sub-contractors that we would like to get bids from so when we have a planned picked out, we are ready to go. <br />
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On another note, I have partnered up with a friend and we have started our own business. It is in preparation for the future if certain events happen and also hopefully give us both a little more income on the side. I am not going to go into the details yet, but I am really excited and scared at the same time.<br />
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Shaeler woke up throwing up on Thursday. So she stayed home from school and then Friday because of the storm, her school sent out a text informing us that if we wanted to take it as a snow day, we could. So, she stayed home with me with hopes and plans to have a fun Shae day, which actually turned out to be "mommy has a million last minute details to take care of day." Don't feel too bad! She got a movie in bed and Baskin Robbins the next day to make up for it. Oh, and the puking was only a 4 hour bug. Quite common with Shaeler. Along with the 5:00 am wake up call for that puking bug.<br />
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Last night we held our Duty to God/YW Medallion Dinner. We usually have about 180-200 people attend this dinner and it was A.LOT.OF.WORK! I am so exhausted today, that I keep zoning out. I feel like a walking zombie. My presidency and I were in charge of the decorations and Audrey helped me make the flowers. Here is what our tables looked like:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNXLhNKvgvv5GYtGKU5fv4FN_q-5m_oAf0bC4lU7A7bb9AitV09APi-WB7HBjE_447P2yU22yIB3WQMHMLRhF43gZVXPsH4zuv5mM5Zq7hNrOfngXawUgWJyMBqw-13C1gQtH5Gfr062k/s1600/20130112_194828.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNXLhNKvgvv5GYtGKU5fv4FN_q-5m_oAf0bC4lU7A7bb9AitV09APi-WB7HBjE_447P2yU22yIB3WQMHMLRhF43gZVXPsH4zuv5mM5Zq7hNrOfngXawUgWJyMBqw-13C1gQtH5Gfr062k/s320/20130112_194828.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I know that there is lots of room for improvements or ideas, but this was a hard assignment for me, so be gentle in your judgements. I am so grateful for everyone who helped and contributed for this dinner. There is so much unknown work that goes into these kind of events and we are so grateful for all the helping hands to pull this dinner off. I am so, so grateful that this dinner is done.<br />
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Oh, and Shaeler informed me today that I am a grandma to 115 grandchildren. Apparently, she is the mother of 115 stuffies who are now sending in requests for birthday and Christmas gifts. Nice one, Shae! Good try!<br />
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On to the next week!<br />
<br />Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-52576013059166178922013-01-06T17:29:00.000-07:002013-01-06T17:29:04.032-07:00A Week in ReviewI already posted about New Years in the previous post, but I have set a goal to try and blog at least on Sunday the happenings of the previous week. <br />
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This week has been very busy for me. We have a big dinner that we are hosting for the Stake next Saturday and I have been working on the decorations. Have I mentioned that I am not crafty, WHATSOEVER??<br />
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My sister in law Audrey, has been a doll and helped me create 38 tissue paper flowers. I will post pictures from the dinner when it is all said and done. <br />
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I have had lots of work in YW's as 2013 has begun and organizing and planning the big events ahead of me takes a lot of my time. With that and the extra work I am doing at home, I feel like every second of the day is owned by my to-do list.<br />
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No big moments really happened this week other than I had a long over do dinner with a very special friend. She taught me that the greatest gift that one can ever give or receive is love. We went to the temple after dinner and I put many names on the temple list that night. Love is the best and also coming down to the only answer in these days.<br />
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Shaeler went back to school and was up at 6:30 the first day and then had a harder time getting up as early the other days. We have been working on her Faith in God and I am having so much fun doing it with her. One of her experiences is to plan a parent-child activity. She wants to do a picnic in our living room. I'll give the details when it happens.<br />
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Brian is back into full swing with work. All the jobs he stressed having to deal with in December that didn't happen are now coming full swing in the month of January. Even though he is getting very busy and working in the cold, his stress is better than the stress of no work at all. I am amazed at his growth in the gospel lately. He is really stepping up to the responsibilities that have been given to him and it is so wonderful to be at his side. Man, I love this guy.<br />
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We are plugging right along even though it is 8 degrees here! ARE YOU KIDDING ME! I'm baking a razzleberry pie right now to warm my soul. Seems to help a bit.<br />
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Here is a pic of Shae with a very large icicle<br />
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Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-81146882411692119192013-01-06T17:07:00.000-07:002013-01-06T17:07:44.965-07:00Christmas 2012 and New Years<div style="text-align: center;">
I would use three words to describe my Christmas this year:</div>
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Heavenly</div>
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Peaceful</div>
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Brian and I had made a decision that we were going to take a year and make a lot of sacrifices financially. So I knew this Christmas would be different than any other Christmas I have had before.</div>
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First, I really wanted the holiday to be more spiritual than commercial. I didn't want to feel stressed and overwhelmed. I didn't want to fight crowds to buy gifts and I wanted my Christmas to become as special to me as Easter is.</div>
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So along with our financial decisions, I said no to many parties, I waited to shop for Christmas for one day and focused our Christmas time together more on the spiritual side of things.</div>
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Honestly, this Christmas meant more to me than any other Christmas I have had in a long time.</div>
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We were so blessed that I would fall on bended knee and express great gratitude for the gifts and blessings that we were given. Interestingly enough, all the gifts or traditions that we decided to sacrifice on for this year still came but from the love of others who had no idea of what our circumstances are about.</div>
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We had a Christmas that was very focused on family. My parents and my sister with her children came into town and we spent some time downtown and it was wonderful and joyful. We played, we saw the temple lights, we ate like kings and we had a wonderful family Christmas together which has not happened in a long time. Thank you Mom, Dad and Janet for coming up and giving us this wonderful gift. It brought such great peace and love to my heart and my cup runneth over.</div>
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We went to my Aunt Joyce's house for her Christmas Family Home Evening Around the World. My Aunt has a wonderful tradition of celebrating Christmas from all different countries and teaches us all the different traditions and foods. She is always so generous with her crafts, activities and gifts. This year, she had a seashell object making table and I loved it! Here is a giraffe that I made for Shae:</div>
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The best part of Christmas was that I started my "Christ Centered Christmas" Much like my Easter celebrations. Instead of focusing on the last 7 days of his life, I focus on the 7 figures in the Saviors birth. I was a bit late this year, so we were only able to focus on 4 but it was so great. </div>
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This year we focused on Mary, Joseph, the lamb and Jesus Christ.</div>
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Every night we were reading scriptures and expanding so much to the Christmas story. Every person and animal has a lesson to teach about life from the Savior's birth. I simply loved it and cannot wait to get to do it again. Here are a few pics I took:</div>
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Mary -"Ponder in our hearts"</div>
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The Lamb - "Tender Mercies tree and Being a follower of Christ"</div>
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Next Christmas, I will have to post all the different activities, but it was very beautiful and so many spiritual experiences.</div>
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Some fun and funny things that happened to us at Christmas is that my sister sent me the coolest countdown board that can be used not only Christmas but countdown anything that we want.</div>
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This is a darling and great gift to be used all year long. I'll explain that later.</div>
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On Christmas Eve, we went to visit a couple of elderly friends who are alone and Shae and I had to go home because she wasn't feeling well. After an hour nap, she was back to her normal self. We went ice skating and she played with her friends.</div>
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That night, we went to the Cheesecake Factory with my grandma and all of the sudden she wasn't feeling well again. She laid down on a bench and we had trapped ourselves in with 3-4 adults on each side. By the time they served our meal, she turned to me and said she was going to throw up. </div>
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WE WERE TRAPPED! </div>
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So I told her to crawl under the table and run to the bathroom. She crawled under the table and stood there and waited until I could come. Well, the vomiting began and she tried so hard to hold it in. By the time I got to her, I ran her down the aisle to the bathroom as she was puking the whole way. She had not eaten all day and was throwing up water basically. We ran into the bathroom and as we went in a lady came out and slipped and fell in Shae's throw up. Oooooohhh!! So sorry! </div>
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Her shirt was sopping wet and so I went back out to get her coat and Brian was standing there with all our stuff ready to go. But I wanted to at least eat my meal and get my Red Velvet Cheesecake!! No, it was time to go! Luckily, my Aunt Darcy had our meals wrapped up and grabbed us as we were heading out the door. No time to get Red Velvet. Boo!! Because of the chaos, I made no cookies for Santa and Shaeler slipped into her Christmas Eve pajamas which were the right size on the hanger but 2 sizes too small on the tag! DANG IT!</div>
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She threw up through the night but anxiously got us up at 6:30 am to see her presents. Shae got some clothes and a motorized scooter. I got a pillow and a workout outfit. Brian got his TV and a water purifier. By 7:30, she was back asleep in our bed, exhausted and Brian and I had a peaceful quiet Christmas breakfast.</div>
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On New Years Eve, we had a hustle and bustle of a day and by the time the evening came, it was best for all of us to just go to bed. Sadly, we were all asleep by 9:30 pm. I awoke to Brian making breakfast for New Years and we toasted with sparkling apple cider to the exciting things that will be happening this year. A couple I will share:</div>
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1. Remember the countdown board my sister gave me. Well we are now counting down to the Christmas present my mom and dad gave to us.</div>
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We are going on a cruise this year!! WOOOOWEEEE!</div>
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2. I'm happy to announce that Rentmeister Construction will be building its first spec home to sell this year. I am so excited!! </div>
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May 2013 be as memorable as 2012. May God bless us with peace and love and may we strive ever so hard to be worthy of it!</div>
Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-32486238182227977742012-12-06T22:09:00.001-07:002012-12-06T22:09:37.500-07:00Life As We Know ItA lot of things have been going on over here in our neck of the woods. I would describe it as the best of times and the worst of times. Definitely times that are worth mentioning. <br />
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I went to the dentist and they had forgotten that they rescheduled me to the new date and time. I was "fit" into the schedule and luckily dodged the normal dental hygienist that cleans my teeth until my teeth hurt. Not my gums, my teeth. And the pain lasts usually a day or so. She is obsessed with flossing and so when she flosses you while she is cleaning for your check up, it seems like she pulls out a yard of floss. The woman means business. This visit, the dentist did the cleaning and the check up and I was out in half the time with no pain. Woowee! And yes, I got my normal ego boost with the new question "do you whiten your teeth?" Nope, this is all Nat-u-Ral! Followed by the same reaction of all..."Wow!" Ha! <br />
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My car pool kids are like characters from a book. L who sits in the back with Shae and another little girl has only the volume of extremely loud when he speaks. In fact, he screams all his conversations. I finally had to say something to him because my ears hurt so bad and he screamed back at me that it was a "free country." To which I replied, yes, but you are in <u>my</u> car, my private property, <u>my</u> rules. You can't abide <u>my</u> rules, you don't get a "free" ride in this "free country." It has worked a bit. My other favorite is G who sits up front with me. He likes to adjust all my buttons, the seat, lock the doors and control the radio. When I took that privilege away from him, he started bringing his own IPOD to listen to. This kid full on dances in the front seat of my car and I can't help but watch. I can only imagine what sight it must be to see him "jamming out" in my car ride EVERY DAY. It's like his own personal party and he's the only one invited. Party on my friend, party on!<br />
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My Relief Society did our Christmas dinner early this year. I really liked it. We always do a progressive dinner around the room. I really love this idea because I can talk to a lot more people. My friend Renee shared with me 4 challenges that Elder Hales gave to her and the employees of the Church Office Building and it has been an amazing experience to accept his challenges. We are striving for a very simplistic, Christ-like Christmas and his counsel has made a huge difference. By the way, wasn't the First Presidency Christmas Devotional AMAZING!! Those talks were so personal to me, I have been re-watching the devotional all this week. How lucky we are to be lead by Prophets, Seers and Revelators. I felt the Spirit so strongly and was in awe that Shaeler listened and felt it too.<br />
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This weekend was really hard for me. Sometimes, I fight small bouts of depression or I am dealing with so much stress that all I can do to release the emotions is to cry, and cry, and cry at the drop of a hat. This last weekend was one of those times. As I am having a nervous break down, Shae comes running in from a swimming excursion with a friend and hands me half of her front tooth, which she broke off in a fall. The tooth is a permanent tooth. By then, I couldn't handle the emotions and I just cried even harder. I bawled as I left a message for the dentist and made Brian call a friend to at least get some more counsel. My dentist called back thankfully after I calmed down. He told me to place the tooth in a glass of milk and because she was in no pain or did not any nerve exposure, she could wait to see him when he got back into the office. Shaeler proudly showed off her broken tooth at church and at school. On Tuesday morning, I took her in and watched her calmly lay there as the dentist glued back her tooth on which much drilling and metal flossing. I quietly sat in the corner and cried as I had some spiritual lessons being taught to me. I can't help it. The dentist says that we are not out of the woods yet and that she will have check ups to monitor the tooth. Yay, more dentist bills! My life is a gift!!<br />
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Last week, Brian signed up to be part of the Salt Lake Home Builders Association. It is a great organization for him to network for his business and an organization that stands up and protects his rights as a contractor in the government. We were invited to their Christmas Dinner which was a formal affair at the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. They were doing a fundraiser for the Make a Wish Foundation and it was a plated formal dinner that was very expensive. When we arrived, we met bankers, owners of dealerships, big contractors in the Salt Lake valley, other sub-contractors, and ran into a couple of old friends. We were like fish out of water. They were doing a silent auction for Ginger Bread houses in the back of the room where a few were the starting bid at $100 a piece. We bought a few extra raffle tickets as they were giving out awesome prizes during the dinner and wanted to contribute to the Make-A-Wish foundation. As we sat down, every seat had a small gift to thank us for attending the dinner. I got chocolate covered oreos and Brian got chocolate Carmel covered pretzel sticks. FOR THE LOVE!! 2 of my absolute favorites!! Woowee! The dinner was delicious and gorgeous. Totally a cheat meal and a half and it was worth every bite. The raffle for the prizes began and I thought for sure we would be lucky to even get one prize. Our friends sitting next to us had over 25 tickets, surely they will walk home with lots of prizes. I watched vacuums, blue ray players, chocolate fountains, spa gifts, all of these amazing prizes being handed out. Then I heard Brian's name called. <br />
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He won an entertainment system to hold our IPAD to play movies in the back of the car for Shae. Alright! We won something! More and more names were called and lots of people got amazing gifts. They got down to the last prizes which were the biggest prizes of the night. A Party for 14 friends for pedicures. A Nitro Circus gift basket with signed helmet. A Garmin GPS system, which oh, by the way, they pulled Brian's name out again and he won that too! Finally, they pulled out the grand prize of a 32" flat screen smart tv and once again, Brian's name was called as the winner. I just sat there in shock! Here we are one of the new kids on the block, fish out of water, walking away with an entertainment system, a Garmin GPS and a flat screen tv. Oh, we got teased by everybody but let me tell you, all those people knew who Brian Rentmeister the Electrician was and I was proud. We laughed all the way home. What on earth are we going to do with this tv? We don't watch very much television. HA! The tag on the box that people usually label the name of the receiver on said "To: I won!" LOL!! Oh well! It was quite the experience I will never forget.<br />
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Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-37212411180912659272012-11-29T14:40:00.001-07:002012-11-29T14:40:11.002-07:00Annie Oakley I am not!Last night, I attended a Concealed Weapons Permit class. It was very interesting. It some ways, it was very hard.<br />
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I'm 33 years old and have never touched a gun in my life. I have family history that involves guns that did not end well. I will say, I am not one that is against guns. I fully believe that it is the user, not the gun that is the problem. I use the same argument for spoons. It is the user not the spoon that can make you obese. <br />
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I believe in the Constitution. I believe that it is a sacred document inspired by God. Which has always made me wonder why the 2nd amendment of this divine document refers to the right to bear arms. As I read it, there is counsel in that I have a right to protect myself and my family. <br />
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As times are changing, I want to be proactive in protecting my freedoms and rights. I have no desire to be "packing it" all the time in my purse or my belt loop. I just want the right and freedom to protect myself and my family if such an opportunity presents itself. Attending that class was about opening up my choices and options. <br />
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Me at this class felt like the Sesame Street song "one of these things just doesn't belong here." I think my purple coat and turquoise scarf may have contributed to that, but I'm not changing who I am to fit in. I'm doing this as me. An officer taught the class about laws and safety. It was so much information, my head was spinning. They fingerprinted me and what I got out of that was my ring fingers are sadly inflexible. <br />
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As the teacher presented all the different situations that could arise where I could legally use a gun, I just felt discouraged that this is the world we live in. Man, I live in a happy, naive bubble. I am way too soft hearted for this stuff, so law enforcement is definitely a NEVER in my book. If you were with me right now you would hear me singing "I am NEVER EVER EVER EVER getting into law enforcement!" to a little tune by Taylor Swift. <br />
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I did have one moment that I was happy about. The teacher played two movie clips showing different situations of when pulling a gun out is the right thing to do or not the right thing to do. Apparently, the popular verbiage for "Dirt Bag Criminals" is the M-F-er phrase. The teacher had warned us that there was language. I thought, this is my cue to leave, but I just sat there. The video played and within 10 sec, the language was used in every other word. Something I find interesting about swear words is that each one can be used as a noun, verb, adjective or even pronoun. Who knew, right? I had a thought hit my head "you do not need to hear this or see this for your education. Time to leave." So, I humbly got up and walked out of the room. I could still hear it faintly in the next room and so I started to sing songs in my head. Another thought came to me "you are doing the best you can to avoid this. Even though you choose not to hear this and you can, you will not be held accountable." What a sigh of relief I felt that even though I was doing the best that I could and could still hear things, I was still clean. Please, don't laugh at this, it is very important to me.<br />
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I walked away with the clear thought that I will most likely have different forms of protection surrounding me to keep me safe. Preferaby the non-lethal ones. I am grateful that I have more education about gun laws and safety. I am grateful that this experience will give me more choices should the opportunities ever present themselves. But most of all, I am grateful for the experience because I added a small block of integrity to my character last night. I have a long way to go!Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-75411551411283680132012-11-19T11:52:00.001-07:002012-11-19T11:52:17.692-07:00The are a few of my favorite things...<div align="center">
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<u><strong>Books</strong></u></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Touching Spirit Bear" by Ben Mikaelsen</span></div>
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WOW! This book was recommended to me by a young woman. It is a young adult fiction so it is a very easy read, but there are some very profound lessons that are taught in this book. It's one of those books that makes you think about it, reflect your own life about it and inspires you to act differently and treat others differently. This is in my top 5 of favorite books. Go read it if you are looking for something really good.</div>
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P.S. For the love, someone make this a movie!!</div>
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<strong><u>Treats</u></strong></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Stephens Gourmet Hot Cocoa No Sugar Added</span></div>
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I love hot chocolate! I am freezing cold All.The.Time! </div>
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My relationship with a sugar free hot cocoa is almost scandalous! With a squirt of whip cream on top, it makes the cold weather almost something to look forward to.</div>
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<strong><u>Laughs</u></strong></div>
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This is what had Shae and I laughing yesterday!</div>
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Sing with me now: "When the dog bites, when the bee stings, when I'm feeling bad. I simply remember my favorite things, and then I don't feel so bad!"</div>
Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-78587220478004906012012-11-16T10:52:00.000-07:002012-11-16T14:08:56.970-07:00RandomnessesThere is so much that I wish that I was recording. I always think in the back of my mind that I should blog this or that for the sheer purpose of my personal history. Now that my following has dropped down to 1, oh wait maybe two or three (wave to my followers), I am kind of excited that maybe this means that my life will stay personal and intimate. The way I really have found I prefer things to be. Here are my random thoughts for this time.<br />
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1. I have been thinking a lot about the relationships in my life. Family, friends, young women, leaders, other adults, co-workers, strangers etc. For some time, I have been placed in a position that I am around a lot of people a lot of the time. With most of my relationships and the responsibilities that I have, I find that Heavenly Father has given me a role in needing to lift others, give praise and love unconditionally. It is a humbling experience in which I am so grateful for and in awe that I have been given such an opportunity to learn. It has taught me that being in tune with my heart is the most important characteristic that I can gain. Even when there are some that use me, say unkind things to me or about me, I am learning that it really isn't about me, nor should it affect my attitude or response. The last month, I have had moments of utter humiliation and that my weaknesses can be very apparent. I am so grateful to those who reach out and lift me when I am down. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I am also grateful that a very loving Father in Heaven keeps me in check with humility and on focus of my life mission. I happily accept the role of giving to others, but I am also grateful for those who take the time to fill my cup to help me along.<br />
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2. I started chemo today. Now don't get in a panic, it is for a wart on my finger and I apply it externally. I went to the dermatologist a few days ago again for a wart whom I have refer to as Voldermort or V that has been growing on my finger for the last couple of years. So technically, V has started chemo. What I was hoping for a quick visit to freeze and be done with, turned to an exposure of V grows like cancer, the excizema I have been hiding for years has been found out and the disappointment that the only facial cleanser that has worked for me has stopped all productions and communication with the outside world. I walked out with creams that have steroids, chemo and a coupon with no facial wash. I feel jipped. The big zit under my lip is just salt to the wound.<br />
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3. I'm trying to think of the best way to phrase this, but words cannot express enough the love that I feel for Shaeler right now. This year, she has changed immensely not only physically but emotionally and mentally. She thinks more maturely in many ways and I find that she and I are laughing All.The.Time. She is so responsible and lately has been so willing to be obedient and good. The other day, she brought me her allowance that she gets with her PPI with her dad and said she wanted to help the family with a goal we are working on. She placed the money on our white board and marked it for it's purpose. 4 months ago, that money would have bought a few candy bars and stuffies at the $1.00 store. My heart leaps as she is so giving and compassionate and understands the things that Brian and I are trying to teach her. It is such a bittersweet edge to be her mother. I am so excited for her future and to watch her grow and yet at the exact same moment, I grieve as my baby is growing up. We have big plans for our Christmas video of things that make us laugh, songs we sing together and quotes we bounce off of each other. She is the coolest cat I know! ;)<br />
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4. The last couple of weeks, the birds have been out in masses in the fields around my house. I love, love, love to see them all lined up on the electrical wires or flying in big masses in the air. For some reason, I feel extremely happy seeing those birds. I swear, I must have been part of the bird making during the creation. I can't help but be hypnotized by all types of birds, chickens especially. Whenever we see a bunch of birds together, we always yell out "Bird Party!" Shaeler even made a bird feeder in a plastic cup and hung it in a bush in our backyard. I may just sprinkle seed all over the back porch and have a hay day watching them. It just hit me that maybe I am drawn to birds because of my flying dreams.....hmmm. Going to think about that one.<br />
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5. Brian. Oh, how I love Brian. They say that the 13th year of marriage is doomed for bad luck (knock on wood) but this last year our relationship has reached a new level. We have both stepped outside of our comfort zones and it has made all the difference in the world. I find the greatest joy in helping him, supporting him and loving him. In return, he has really stepped up to the plate in fulfilling my needs and recognizing things that make me happy. It's a different kind of love that I have never experienced before and it is fantastic. I have seen such growth and maturity in him that I feel so safe and loved. He is my soft place to fall, my protector and he loves me. It has been quite the journey to get to this point, but I wouldn't trade it for all the puppy love or twittered payted feelings in the world. He is the best thing for me and I love him with all my heart.<br />
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6. I want to document that this was the first presidential election that I really got involved with the candidates, the issues and educating myself on topics, decisions and powers that affect my life. I will say that the night of the elections, I cried and felt a deep despair of hopelessness. But a few days following, I was blessed to be taught of a bigger picture and now I feel extremely optimistic and motivated. The is a great work ahead of us and now is the time to get ourselves in order and do what we have been asked to do. I have an overwhelming sense of being responsible, teaching others to be responsible and to go out into the world and live your dreams. The best lessons come from the hardest experiences and the greater the fall the better the triumph. How blessed we are to live at this time of the world. I'm ready to get to work! Are you?<br />
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Thanks for lending me your listening ear. I appreciate you stopping by. I hope you have a wonderful weekend and hopefully I will post again very soon. Why do I feel like this is an inner dialogue? Oh, well. I end with a quote from one of my favorite musicals "Now is the time to Seize the Day!"Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-38899512655309257372012-09-21T09:46:00.000-06:002012-09-23T09:47:51.484-06:00President C and the babysitter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Oh! How I love Friday's!! </div>
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Once again, we are back to our Friday night classes with President C!</div>
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Absolutely adore this man and I love that we are back studying Isaiah!</div>
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I love Isaiah!</div>
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Such powerful lessons and applies so much to what is happening to us in the world today.</div>
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Isaiah is for me!</div>
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I love sitting with my friends who also adore to study the scriptures. We whip out our wood boards and make an entire row of desks.</div>
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We also found a new babysitter that is unbelievable!</div>
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So far, she brings us fresh eggs from their chickens in their back yard and we come home to her baking peanut butter chocolate chip cookies. Hot out of the oven!</div>
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She always asks me if I want her to make a double batch?</div>
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No, I am good, but thanks for asking!</div>
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We chat about her life and I praise her and express my love to her! </div>
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Fridays are just the best! It is a night of treats all the way around.</div>
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Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-52238224190835117532012-09-17T09:23:00.000-06:002012-09-23T09:35:58.749-06:00Tender Mommy Moment<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgblDKhqHD-021XJi1hi-W_8IrCcULCNf50zLXxHggp7nqOiyLwj-JQTa1FqCFE7n3uMHEmBECjQLRk_3dVPehqG7Uaq6jJy_12YsBLqPAYesib4paToqSRmV6GrhmpBESyLIza8Q5N0mk/s1600/IMG_3813.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgblDKhqHD-021XJi1hi-W_8IrCcULCNf50zLXxHggp7nqOiyLwj-JQTa1FqCFE7n3uMHEmBECjQLRk_3dVPehqG7Uaq6jJy_12YsBLqPAYesib4paToqSRmV6GrhmpBESyLIza8Q5N0mk/s320/IMG_3813.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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When Shaeler comes home from school, it can go one of 2 ways. She will either come through the garage or she will go to the front door and ring the door bell multiple times OR hold the door bell button down for 10 seconds followed by multiple annoying knocks. </div>
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My preference is the garage because if I am doing something then she just comes in at her own free will AND my nerves stay calm because the second option has become like fingernails on the chalk board for me.</div>
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Today, I got the hold the door bell button down for 10 seconds which makes a horrible screeching noise in the house followed by the "why haven't you opened the door yet?" knocks. As I walked to the front door, I was preparing myself to give the speech yet again about going through the garage door when I found myself looking into the eyes of a red eyed 8 year old.</div>
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Something was wrong.</div>
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Of course I asked her, in which she replied with alligator tears rolling down her eyes that Lucas (a boy in her car pool) pulled her hair out of it's pony tail and was slapping her on the face. I asked if he hit her hard? She demonstrated a more playful annoying slap that he did. </div>
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Teasing and bickering are not Shae's forte, as she has no siblings that she normally fights with on a day to day basis. This is behavior she is not use to and she struggles with it because we do not treat each other that way in our family.</div>
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I grabbed my baby's hand and asked her to come lay down on the bed with me. She rested her head on my chest and I tickled her back and stroked her hair to calm her down. I then explained that most likely Lucas was playing around and that his behavior is a way that boys act. Most likely, he was not trying to be mean to her. We talked about how she felt and that she should try to never make anyone else feel that way.</div>
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As my little girl is growing up, I cherish these small moments where I can hold her, comfort her and love her as if she was once again that tiny baby in my arms. It was a mother moment that I never want to forget and if it means taking the annoying door bell moments to get some, then I will endure it!</div>
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Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-19794008474998372322012-09-11T18:16:00.000-06:002012-09-11T18:16:07.127-06:00My favorite Reads lately<br />
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There are 2 books that I have fallen in love with this year. I could read them over and over.</div>
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The first is a book called Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgttb6bgt2ehzlI4sS2molkjWtb8BV7b3TEtVs0uZg0vE4vrO0ZavqtvtkazCTiygQWfXS7xEh-r_8lEp-h6drXBtDSRJ2C3Rf3TSJvyvYdiPm-UFiEHTTvi38TjeHVdFgGaXd9z0vMuD8/s1600/edenbrooke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgttb6bgt2ehzlI4sS2molkjWtb8BV7b3TEtVs0uZg0vE4vrO0ZavqtvtkazCTiygQWfXS7xEh-r_8lEp-h6drXBtDSRJ2C3Rf3TSJvyvYdiPm-UFiEHTTvi38TjeHVdFgGaXd9z0vMuD8/s320/edenbrooke.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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Almost all the reviews I have read has given this book a 5 star review. </div>
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I also give it a 5 star review.</div>
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I love this book because it appeals to my Jane Austen romantic.</div>
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It is a wonderful story about a young girl who is sent to Edenbrooke to become a lady to be able to inherit her grandmothers fortune. </div>
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LOVE the relationship with Marianne and Phillip!</div>
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They even made a trailer for the book and I think it is great! Please watch:</div>
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My second recommendation is for a book called Michael Vey by Richard Paul Evans</div>
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I give this book also a 5 star review!</div>
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Even though it was action packed and the twist of the electrical Super Powers was intriguing, I loved this book because it was based upon moral principles and doing what is right even when things are hard.</div>
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The other reason I adore this book is that my 8 year old daughter could not get enough of it. She would beg for me to read another chapter, run in my room to read a chapter in the morning and it was the first book that she experienced the "movie in your head" reading. She loved this book as much as I did and we have had many conversations about it.</div>
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This is a great book for kids and one that I know that I can recommend to all ages. Youth to adult!</div>
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I am begging for someone to read Michael Vey because this is one that I would love to have a conversation with about! </div>
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Happy Reading!</div>
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Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-486547927809794747.post-22820951794312634422012-09-09T21:17:00.000-06:002012-09-09T21:19:13.885-06:00Crazy YW Week!<br />
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I get asked all the time if my life has calmed down since Trek, and my first reaction is always a little chuckle. Then the thought...............how well do you know me?</div>
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This last week, we had 2 very big events with the Stake.</div>
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The first was our Stake Back to School BBQ. </div>
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This is a tradition with our Stake that we gather all the wards and have a big BBQ that usually ends with some sort of water fight. </div>
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This year, we had smoked pulled pork and smoked chicken, corn on the cob, fruit kabobs, salads and creamies.</div>
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We made a slip-n-slide with plastic and baby shampoo and had volleyball, ultimate Frisbee and a spiritual message from one of our Bishops.</div>
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We plan on 275 showing up as our max and we were well over 300 if not close to 350 this year.</div>
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It was a huge success and we were so excited that everyone came and had a great time.</div>
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The second big event of the week was our YCL Retreat.</div>
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For the longest time, I have been wanting to do something special for the Laurel age young women. In the time I have served in young womens, I have watched many young women turn 16-17 and then become inactive. </div>
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THIS KILLS ME!</div>
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So, we planned an activity that would be for the Laurel age YW. To come and have fun, be taught doctrine, feel the spirit, build unity within our stake and I get a overnight dosage of young women laughs, giggles and happiness.</div>
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The talk that I gave at the end was about celebrating the young women values by incorporating them into their character. It will help them when their trials come and it will make them stand out in this world. At the end of my talk, we had a Young Women Value Color Celebration.</div>
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My hope was to get all the YW value colors and toss them in the air and then immerse ourselves in the colors symbolizing that we rejoice and desire to be those values.</div>
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Here are a couple of picks from that event:</div>
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I came home with blue hair, blue ears, blue underwear and blue boogers!!</div>
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I was completely covered in the colors and I loved every moment of it. Next time, we need MORE chalk!</div>
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I cannot express enough how incredible the young women of the Stake really are. They are different and they are full of goodness. </div>
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It was such an honor to be able to be with them and hang with them. </div>
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Until next year ladies!</div>
Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05847767287439635113noreply@blogger.com0