On a soap box.....

I love Christmas. I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude as i walked the halls of Reece and Quincy's elementary school- i saw pictures of christmas trees and other decorations that indicated the approaching holiday. Of course i was saddened that no mention of our Savior can be included at school but i was still grateful that the children can at least celebrate christmas to some extent. I stopped by the principal's office, to express my gratitude for living in a school district that still allows the holiday celebration, only to be told that it might change in the near future. WHAT!!!!!!!
Apparently some families just don't think it's appropriate and don't share in the belief of Christmas- it offends them. that's when I stepped up on my soap box and spoke my heart.....

"SO WHAT!!!!!!"

"Why is the majority always cowtowing to the minority? These christmas opposing families demand tolerance and respect-what about tolerating and respecting my family's beliefs? This is ridiculous! Well I would like to know if and when this issue will be debated and presented in front of the school board. I will get involved!"
Too bad the principal was doing evaluations in a classroom- BUT the receptionist got an earful and thankfully she agreed with me. I guess I'll have to spend some energy writing a letter to the school board. Don't think for a minute i would have wavered from my soap box if I was speaking to the principal. OK well I better get drafting my ever important letter to the school board......

it will be O.K.

so many thoughts are running through my mind as i sit here typing.
1. is it really december in 2 days?
2. are we really only 30 + days away from celebrating a new year?
3. are we going to be finacially able to navigate all of our responsibilities (quinn's employer isn't in a great financial place right now and consequently it trickles down to us. ie- no more paid health insurance premium for the family, behind on Quinn's commission payments and definately NO christmas bonus)
4. will my children learn the true meaning of christmas?
5. will i get all my errands done and still be able to spend 2 hours at the gym?
6. should i look for a part time job?
7. do other mothers, aside from my sister, experience feelings of anxiety and panic when the house is in disarray and the children are extremely noisy? are there really humans out there that enjoy all the mess and the noise? really?????
despite the above mentioned thoughts (and some that will remain unrevealed) i feel a bit of excitement bubbling. there is a little hop in my step, a smile that is threatening to surface. i wonder-is it the approaching christmas holiday? is it the spiritually uplifting day at church? NO! it's back to school for the kids! 3 weeks they have been out for track break and finally they return tomorrow. i'm trying to hide my excitement but it's hard. i really can't wait! granted the school session will be short lived as they get out for christmas break in a few weeks BUT nonetheless i will treasure their time in school more than i ever i have. oh i can hardly wait for tomorrow! everything will be OK!

ranting and raving AND Gratitude

since this is MY blog and i feel like getting some stuff off my chest here it goes......
Adam Lambert-huge fan when he was on American Idol- one talented individual. Lost all respect last night after his performance on AMA. Couldn't even stomach the whole thing. After the first very inappropriate act, by him, we shut it off and vowed to never ever support him in any way. I guess the more important question i should ask myself is why was i even watching the AMA's in the first place. I don't really enjoy any kind of popular music and viewing the show was NOT an appropriate Sabbath day activity, in my opinion. I should have known better. The adversary really has his claws in deep. Scary times we find ourselves in these days. Then i hear that the healthcare bill passed the senate on saturday. did you know that our taxes will be paying for abortions? i am a pro lifer. if someone is stupid enough to have unprotected sex before or after they are married that IS their choice-of course there are the unfortunate circumstances such as rape or incest that warrant careful consideration but i don't believe that is the reason most abortions are performed. I don't want one penny i work for to supporting abortion in anyway. Where is my choice in that?
I have already mentioned this before BUT the two things I am most grateful for is my membership in and my testimony of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints. I often wonder how i would navigate through life without my testimony and i don't think i would.

Attitude of Gratitude Day 21

My creative juices have been shifted to high gear since starting my gratitude posts. I do think everyday we can find something new to be grateful for and i'm glad for the opportunity to think outside the box. Today I was visiting with a stranger when she revealed that her husband has brain cancer and they are moving to Argentina next month to be closer to his family for a few years. REALLY? She didn't sound bitter. She appeared to be at peace. I sensed more the "this is what life has dealt us" attitude and they were anxious for their new adventure. Today I am grateful for the opportunity I had to visit with this individual today. It's no secret for anyone who knows me.....I AM A CONTROL FREAK! i live with the illusion that i control most things around me. It's so ridiculous. I am working on letting go and as i do i can feel the anxiety leave my being and the peace take hold. The stranger gave me strength to carry on. After our short visit I had a greater appreciation for the truth.......the only thing i can really control is my response to life and what the Lord puts in my path. I trust Heavenly Father and Jesus. I know they know what is best for me. I will do better at NOT fighting against Them and embracing the trials put in my path.

Attitude of Gratitude Day 20

1. healthy competition
2. Will- he let's us shadow him at the gym and we get an amazing workout for FREE.
3. YW night in excellence.
4. guitar music.
5. opportunity to stay at home-i may have already mentioned this but even though it's a struggle i am so grateful to be able to stay in the home full time.
6. q-tips.
7. children's imaginations.
8. missed naps-that mean EARLY bedtime. YEEHAW.
9. 24 hour grocery stores.
10. the color lime green. -so cheery
11. losing.- makes winning so much sweeter.
12. winning.
13. my seamstress friend, Tina.
14. fuzzy soft scarves.
15. bookmarks
16. belts.
17. consignment stores
18. press and seal wrap-so handy
19. 100% cotton balls
20. toe nails- when i was training for my half marathon i actually lost one of my toe nails- really helped me appreciate them. see we can always find gratitude in even the most obscure things. :)

Attitude of Gratitude Day 19

1. that extra 15 minutes added to the original 45 minute spinning class-now it's one whole hour of bliss.- really it just means i can eat a little more yummy treats over the holidays.
2. tights- stylish and warm.
3. my neighbor- she brought me a yummy sugar cookie recipe last night.
4. drew- reece's friend.
5. sawyer pest control.
6. pens that write.
7. hair color.
8. short checkout lines.
9. children who sleep in.
10. garage.
11. polka dots.
12. crazy ideas.
13. quinn's patience.
14. montessori.
15. my neighbor, who is an elementary school principal, and will listen to my rants and raves.
16. a good vacuum
17. ceramic tile kitchen countertops.
18. braces
19. retainers
20. dental floss.

Attitude of Gratitude Day 18

1. snow melt-melts those icy patches quick.
2. glue guns.
3. so thankful for the sound of the front door opening and closing at 5:30 p.m. because that means quinn is home!
4. our ranch style home- it's big enough for our family and i can hear everything that is going on in all the rooms.
5. cotton.
6. step stools.
7. express lanes.
8. feather pillows
9. family home evening.
10. the sound of Reece singing primary songs to trey.
11. ziploc bags.
12. people who will explain things to me more than once.
13. safety seals
14. smoke detectors
15. fire fighters
16. mirrors
17. junior mints
18. self check out lines
19. finding money in a coat pocket
20. utensils.

A few days of attitude!

It's been over one week since i have posted my gratitude list. Of course i couldn't keep posting such a list everyday for the rest of my life, right? (or could I? and Should I?)
These last couple of days I haven't felt much gratitude rather a "i just can't muster up the energy to list 20 things i'm grateful for" attitude. Here's what's been going on in our world:
1. reece and quincy started track break- that's right they are out of school for 3 weeks,- need i say more?
2. Trey has decided he is my number one helper- he wants to clean toilets, do the dishes, pour the bleach in the washing machine, hand me toilet paper when i am using the bathroom, flush the toilet for me, etc. he literally follows me everywhere to offer his help. some moms can handle this- some moms think it's productive to teach their kiddos to do the dishes, laundry, toilets, etc. I. DO. NOT! especially at 3. Nonetheless I am trying- i wake up with all the patient intentions in the world and after breakfast ( you know because Trey wants to stir the pancakes and then watch the pancakes cook and then flip them over. Meanwhile reece is busy being a typical older brother to quincy and quincy is busy perfecting her dramatic performance) now where was I??? oh ya after breakfast my nerves have unraveled to nearly the very end.
ANYWHOO.........life has been happening at the Peterson's AND i can either embrace life with a grateful heart or i can begrudgingly endure to the end. I committ to continue on with my gratitude lists until Thanksgiving day as it really does help me keep my heart in the right frame.
1. violin music
2. primary programs
3. front row seats
4. silence
5. sonic ice
6. rear windshield wipers
7. car horns
8. glitter
9. auctions
10. free weekend minutes
11. online shopping
12. the colors emerald green and deep purple- my favorite combination- glad i ran into tiffany on friday at the library- she looked beautiful in her green shirt and purple coat.
13. rooms with doors
14. door handles with locks
15. grout sealer
16. gingham ribbon
17. papa murphy's
18. sugar free popscicles
19. people who remember other people's birthdays
20. coinstar

Attitude of Gratitude Day 16

1. scoring a great promotional deal.
2. Bishop Moorhouse.
3. sticker charts- they are soooo motivating
4. pepto bismal- however it means i'm getting older.
5. courteous store clerks
6. old movies, you know like Fiddler on the Roof.
7. partaking of the sacrament.
8. a good gospel doctrine lesson.
9. reverent children. happens everyone once in a while.
10. nursery leaders.
11. primary teachers.
12. motivational scout leaders
13. sugar cookies that don't turn out- my kids still had fun making them but now i won't waster any calories eating them.
14. neighborhood kids who ate the yucky sugar cookies so i didn't have to feel guilty about throwing them away.
15. $.40 a pound turkeys
16. 2000 stripling warriors- their story is amazing.
17. living in the west coast.
18. dirt-keeps my kids busy for hours.
19. flexible bandaids.
20. black boots- so slimming and don't have to wear tights to church.

Attitude of Gratitude Day 15

1. freshly vacuumed floors
2. a clean kitchen
3. $1 craft projects for kids
4. thank you cards
5. skinny cow ice-cream sandwiches
6. opportunity for kids to have relationship with their grandparents.
7. tempered glass.
8. our trampoline.
9. online helps for teaching church lessons
10. Brother Tanner.
11. cute shoes-one of fetishes
12. knowledge that ALL good things come from the Lord.
13. christmas music-sometimes i play it in July
14. differin cream- keeps all pimples at bay.
15. bronzing powder- a safer way to look sun kissed.
16. tankini's- still modest but so much easier to use the bathroom.
17. food in my pantry
18. my first aid kit
19. puzzles
20. sunshine

Attitude of Gratitude Day 14

1. patient cashiers- i had a big day of coupon shopping.
2. finding everything in the store that is on your list.
3. unexpected catalina's (additional coupons)
4. one time courtesy reversal of overdrawn charges- there was a little mix up with Quinn and his personal bank account. he was overdrawn by $20.00 and the fees attached to that were $55.00- he doesn't normally use this account. thank you US bank for rewarding our 16 years of business.
5. my family ate all of their dinner tonight and didn't complain once. MIRACLE
6. good neighbor kids for my kids to play with.
7. make-up. it's such a wonderful thing-thanks tiffani for pointing that out on your list.
8. ability to stay within grocery budget.
9. calculators
10. cell phones with calculators.-
11. excel spreadsheets
12. quinn will take my kids to work with him so i can have some peace.
13. ability to read
14. my college degree.
15. ability to retain information.
16. gift to learn the gospel easily.
17. ability to get to know other's easily.
18. porch lights.
19. washed windows.
20. a working dryer- for a load or two i thought the heating element in the dryer had burned out but it seems to be working just now.

Attitude of Gratitude Day 13

1. lawyers
2. a toddler who napped at just the perfect time today.
3. eating out- yeah i don't have to cook dinner tonight.
4. people with happy voices.
5. opportunity to try new things.
6. pickle ball-that's a fun game.
7. puzzles-
8. playing dominoes with the adults.
9. the ability to cook meals for my family-that eating out adventure cost us a lot of money.
10. snuggling with my kids.
11. ability to play the piano.
12. courage.
13. my children's innocence.
14. challenges
15. friends and family who have verizon.
16. pumkin chocolate chip cookies- yummy
17. opportunity to go walking with kids
18. a safe neighborhood to go walking with kids
19. national sex offender list-knowlege is power.
20. so grateful that none of my nieghbors are on the sexual predator list.

Attitude of Gratitude Day 12

1. steady paycheck- pay day was yesterday and quinn didn't get his. hopefully he'll get it today BUT it really made me grateful for all the paychecks that have come when they were supposed to.
2. free drug tests-at Reece's meridian PAL award ceremonies last night they gave out free drug test kits ($40 value). I'll just place it on the piano, as a reminder, for the next 15 years.
3. a mayor who is committed to a drug free community.
4. grateful today that reece realized i AM NOT the meanest mom.
5. loose change- it really adds up.
6. instant oatmeal
7. a good fitting bra-this makes all the difference
8. quinn found Reece's scriptures this morning.
9. conference addition ensign-i haven't received mine yet but i'm hoping today is the day.
10. drivers who yield
11. drivers who understand merging.
12. law abiding citizens.
13. kristi-the gym instructor-we had a great spin workout today.
14. les schwab tires
15. black spray paint-it can do wonders for an old piece of furniture.
16. creative people who share ideas.
17. my worn in sneakers
18. furniture to sit on
19. a bare laundry room floor-that means all the laundry is done for the week.
20. comments left on my blog-i love to hear other people's feedback-thank you.

Attitude of Gratitude Day 11

1. a stranger's generosity
2. being on the receiving end of a smile
3. witnessing the miracles of tithing.
4. john Hilton III's book, Why. it's really informative.
5. friendly librarians-some of them are not so nice.
6. opportunity to drive and pick up kids to school.
7. a car big enough to squeeze in kid's friends
8. amy, the crossing guard at school. she makes sure the kiddos are safe.
9. my itchy blistery eczema is almost gone. YEAH!!!!
10. time to wash my families laundry.
11. dry cleaners-quinn wears shirt and tie everyday to work-i hate ironing!
12. dry cleaning allowance-thanks goodness quinn's work gives him a monthly dry cleaning allowance otherwise i would have to learn to love ironing.
13. duplicate checks.
14. yankees are winning the world series-quinn's baseball cards are selling on ebay!
15. honest individuals.
16. straws-my kiddos will drink anything from a straw, including green smoothies.
17. book reviews.
18. my DVR- how did i ever watch television without it.
19. a healed ankle-wed. i'm gonna start running again.
20. alternative healers. my pharmacist brother thinks i'm nuts BUT i'm still grateful for alternatives!

Halloween pics & Attitude of Gratitude Day 10

1. the Halloween witch-she takes all the candy away on halloween night and brings non edible gifts in exchange. then i don't have to spend the next week saying, "no more candy".

2. spontaneous hugs and kisses from my kids.

3. barb hermansen's homeade sugar cookies-never tasted any better

4. ward choir

5. daylight savings time-especially in the fall and i gain an hour of sleep.

6. tampons-seriously how did the pioneer women do it??????????????????

7. answered prayers.

8. primary songs

9. reece learned how to change a diaper tonight! yeehaw-

10. I'm so grateful that Trey isn't ready to potty train yet- i hate potty training boys.

11. safe neighborhood for my kids to trick or treat in.

12. automatic securty lights.

13. the beginning of a new month.

14. the pilgrims

15. Native Americans- (indians)

16. a sturdy roasting pan- i used one of those foil pans to cook my first turkey and the somehow poked a whole in the bottom before placing in the oven. yes turkey drippings can start oven fires.

17. new family search program-in 30 minutes i traced my ancestry line clear back to 1732.

18. efficient record keeping.

19. matches

20. child proof scissors.

Attitude of Gratitude Day 9

1. random acts of kindness- i went with some other gals in my ward to Costa Vida to celebrate a friend's birthday. At the register, the owner asked me why we were there. so i told him. He later visited our table to present a $10 gift card to the b-day girl- Can you believe that? I have been there for b-days before and that has NEVER happened. Thanks Costa Vida. I will eat with you more often.
2. chiropractors-a good friend and good practioner.- About 3:30 i could feel a migraine coming on- no time for that today! i phoned A+ chiropractic right up and Dr. Karl got me in. After my adjustment I got to lay on the massage table and my migraine was kept at bay.
3. Migraines- believe it or not feeling my pain helps me to be more empathetic with Reece when he gets his headaches and is screaming in pain.
4. movie passes at costco-you can save a bunch of money this way and still see the new releases.
5. a clean house-life is better for me when my house is clean.
6. mexican hot chocolate-it has that little extra kick.
7. alarm clocks-we would have slept right through Reece's football game this morning.
8. second chances.
9. propane heaters- especially on really cold days.
10. my cloth mop-it, with my help, mops up my tile floors squeeky clean.
11. fiber one bars-you can get 35% of your daily fiber in a yummy chocolatey bar.
12. babysitters that actually play with kids.
13. my chance to serve our neighbors (Bob and Corrine) who do so much for us.
14. saturday mail service.
15. free shipping.
16. the President-his desire to take away some of our freedoms has really helped me appreciate living in this choice land and all the freedoms i enjoy-i pray that America will continue to honor our Founding Fathers and the constitution AND that we won't see a "transformation" any time soon.
17. capitalism
18. the Free market
19. play-do. although i cringe at the thought of all the germs trapped inside that doughy substance it does keep my little ones occupied for some time.
20. miracles-they occur daily in my life and yours.

Attitude of Gratitude Day 8 with a twist

1. garbage disposals
2. electricity
3. opc cinemas
4. public educators-they are underpaid and underappreciated, understaffed and undermined often, BUT the good ones can make all the difference in a child's life. I had some good ones.
5. temples
6. living so close to a temple
7. google
8. my US bankers-even though i don't have any money they treat me like i'm their favorite.
9. inexpensive southwest flights to seattle
10. fresh water
11. fish
12. flax seed- did you know you can substitute flax for eggs and butter in recipes? this is a life saver for our little guy with all his food allergies.
13. flannel sheets
14. fresh flowers
15. the stars ,in the sky, NOT hollywood.
16. journals
17. disposable diapers-sorry planet
18. pioneers
19. motorcycle helmets- unfortunately i witnessed, from a distance, a motorcycle get hit by a car yesterday and was so thankful that the bike rider was wearing his helmet. the rider appeared to be ok just shaken up a bit.
20. 20 MPH speed zones- this is probably the only reason the motorcycle rider was not seriously injured.

So here's the twist. Giving for what you are grateful for. Let me explain.......Gratitude was the topic of parenting class last night. At the conclusion of each class the instructor always gives us a homework assignment. Here's the homework from now until Christmas (and hopefully at that point it will become a habit)..........List three things, just 3, you are grateful for and then give for what you are grateful for. ie. if you list your home for something you are grateful for then invite a family into your home for dinner or dessert or games and share your home with them. if your children are on the list then make it a point to spend one on one time with each child so they know you are grateful for them. if the temple is on your list then increase your attendance. Get the idea?????

Attitude of Gratitude Day 7

1. missionaries-they are amazing to me.
2. parents who support missionaries- finacially and emotionally and spiritually
3. my testimony- it is my most prized possession
4. my sister in law- torrie. i really love her.
5. my mom's example- i serve and magnify my callings because she taught me how
6. my grandma young-i am charitable with others because she taught me how
7. farmers
8. libraries-i'm really trying to utilize the library more than purchase the book at costco.
9. birthdays-its a great excuse to go to lunch with friends
10. differences-i'm not good at appreciating differences in others BUT i am learning
11. SCENTED bleach- the towels smell much better these days
12. pumice stones- hard water stains and cracked heels
13. my spinning shoes- i get a much better work out on the bike when i'm clipped in
14. charmin toilet paper- it IS softer
15. nieniedialogues-
16. microwave ovens-some may say it causes cancer- all i know is it heats up chicken nuggets in a jiffy.
17. when quinn takes care of the discipline-
18. baskets-
19. garbage pick up in our area-when we lived in portland we were allowed one can and had to pay for anything over- now we could stick the whole house out on the curb and they would pick it up for a flat fee of $10
20. ziploc bags

Attitude of Gratitude Day 6

1. Men and Women who risk their lives to protect my freedom.
2. The constitution- I believe the men who drafted the constitution were divinely inspired.
3. my dad-thanks for calling me and always asking how the kids and I are doing.
4. hot apple cider
5. field trips-kindergartners are so stinking cute!
6. Miss Clements-she is Quincy's teacher and she is GREAT!
7. No Bunny's Perfect- Trey's favorite bed time story
8. ear muffs
9. scarves
10. mittens
11. wool socks
12. toothbrushes
13. WINCO's orange chicken-it's as good as Panda Express BUT much cheaper
14. diet coke- sad but true
15. hot baths
16. hand sanitizer
17. sports caps-i hate doing my hair.
18. sunglasses
19. Nephi- a prophet in the Book of Mormon
20. Cannery

Attitude of Gratitude Day 5

1. sore muscles
2. lawn mower to pick up leaves
3. 1/2 price happy hour at sonic
4. shoe inserts
5. running partners
6. apple shuffle
7. apple buds-the fit the ear better than anything else i have found
8. talk radio
9. turbo tax
10. a nose to smell
11. eyes to see
12. ears to hear
13. nap time
14. hot glue guns
15. printer
16. computer
17. family history-it's always good to know where one comes from-and what one might have to overcome.
18. visiting teaching
19. digital camera
20. a school bus that only transports kindergartners-the only time my kiddos will ever ride the bus.

Attitude of Gratitude Day 4

1. Quinn came home early today.
2. dryer sheets
3. word world-it makes me feel less guilty when my kids watch "educational" shows.
4. Ensign
5. Friend magazine
6. chocolate covered pretzels
7. finding something in common with strangers
8. kellie who has a stock pile of paper for my spur of the moment craft ideas-
9. sales
10. fast sunday-i don't have to stress about yw lesson this week. YEAH!
11. outrageous socks
12. old pictures
13. complimentary bang cuts-I may have already mentioned this one BUT i am really grateful
14. Amanda at the gym who paints my kid's faces every Tuesday
15. text messaging-so much easier than calling
16. the fact that Quinn has tomorrow and Wed off
17. winter-it helps me appreciate spring, summer and fall
18. sugar free hot cocoa
19. sugardoodle.net-awesome website
20. pinchingyourpennies-another great website.

Attitude of Gratitude Day 3

1. Sweat pants
2. blankets
3. piano music
4. ears to hear piano music
5. church hymns
6. young women
7. soft chairs
8. pumpkins
9. windows
10. smiles
11. breathe right nasal strips
12. good gospel doctrine teachers that make you think
13. counsel to get out of debt-i might really be in over my head if the counsel wasn't constantly repeated!
14. coupons
15. dads who will take time out of schedule to coach my son's football team
16. warm fall days
17. gas heat
18. central air conditioning
19. online bill pay- i haven't purchased a stamp in months, maybe years.
20. level pay power bills- it helps make budgeting much easier.

Attitude of Gratitude Day 2

1. Washing machine
2. dishwasher
3. dryer
4. vacuum
5. running water
6. a store within .5 miles of my house
7. crockpot
8. internet- to look up recipes for my crockpot
9. sundays-a day to rest and recharge spiritually
10. lysol disinfectant wipes
11. costco coupons
12. marykay eye make up remover-it's so gentle
13. working oven
14. cream that alieviates nasty eczema
15. markers that wash off walls with water
16. crayons-so we don't have to use markers
17. falling leaves
18. a broken tv-it's forcing us to think outside of the box.
19. saturday-a day to clean and get ready for sunday
20. my 5 year old who loves school-it's not a hassle to get her to go at all.

An Attitude of Gratitude

I have been in a witchy mood of late. Feeling sorry myself and murmuring about not having enough (see there is that Laman and Lemuel complex again). So today begins my journey of gratitude. I will follow the advice suggested in a favorite hymn......"So a-mid the conflict, whether great or small. Do not be discouraged God is over all.....count your many blessings, name them one by one. Count your many blessings see what God has done". Every day I will post 20 things I can be grateful for. Join me!

1. Bisquick mix-with a few substitutions Trey can eat pancakes with the rest of us.

2. eyes to see the vibrant colors of fall

3. Sister Tanner who shares her parenting wisdom with us each week, for 10 weeks.

4. a car that works

5. my scriptures

6. a healthy family

7. a healthy extended family

8. a sister who is my best buddy

9. people who recycle-they give my husband something to do.

10. quinn's patience

11. the Savior's atonement

12. Bob and Corinne- our neighbors-they are amazing!

13. the internet-

14. good doctors

15. freedom to practice religion of my choice

16. my husband's job

17. close proximity of a gym

18. prayer-knowing that mine are heard

19. good books

20. washing machine

Ode to Trey

Trey turned 3 on Saturday. I can't believe our baby is growing up. This little guy is quite the character. He is a joy to our family and his smile can light up a room. He just loves life! His favorite things include:
1. motorcycles
2. chicken nuggets
3. camping-or any activity to get dirty
4. swimming
5. his brother and sister
6. his dad

Nephi vs. Laman & Lemuel

Today-I rushed through my morning scripture reading, not giving the verses any real thought until this very minute, 10:11 p.m. I am in 1 Nephi 16. You know how you can read the same material over and over and over again yet each time, what you read, can take on a whole new meaning? I have read these verses hundreds of times (specifically because they are found in the front of the book. I guarantee I haven't read Moroni as many times as I have read 1 Nephi). BUT today I was taught something new and I pray that I will be able to fully absorb this tender mercy of the Lord. Here's what I learned for ME today.....
1. Nephi and his family STRUGGLED in the wilderness. Life was HARD. Trials were plentiful. EVEN Nephi, who obeyed the Lord faithfully, almost lost his life, went hungry, experienced death of a loved one and was required to tolerate his family member's continous short comings (all in Chapter 16).
2. Decisions made, by Nephi's family, were based on divine guidance and instruction. HOWEVER all of Nephi's family, at one time, question their choices and fall into the trap of murmuring.
Hum how does this apply to MY life?
Posterity-here is what I want you to know- I have made major personal decisions that have been divinely inspired. These decisions have been reaffirmed more than once and yet when things aren't happening the way I think they should OR when the struggling seems to much OR when my eyes are focused on the big and spacious building- I resort to murmuring exceedingly and questioning my choices. Now who does that sound like? ( L & L). I pray for the strength to be more like Nephi, to have increased faith and trust in the Lord, to be more willing to follow the commandments and to endure my trials with a happier heart. I love the Book of Mormon and the truths that are found in this book. Posterity- if you haven't read this book- READ IT! It will change your life.

p.s. I wonder if the children, who dwelt in the wilderness, went to bed when they were told? It is now 11:07 p.m. and Trey is still awake- not murmuring just observing.

Three sick kids + one sick husband=priceless quotes

All three kids are sick-coughing, fever, headaches and a small microscopic amount of throw-up (we have Quincy to thank for this-she coughed so hard she kinda, sorda threw up a teeny tiny bit in the toilet, but in her mind she "THREW-UP"). To top it all off Quinn came home sick as well. Phew- i have my hands full-no gym for me this week. In their delirous fevered state two of these sickos have mumbled some really funny one-liners.

Quincy:" Lucky Reece, Lucky Trey-they get to be sick and not throw up". -this is so comical because again I don't think you can really constitute what she did as throwing up- but nonetheless she is convinced she has it the worst!
Quinn: (while i'm on the phone with Amber) "tell amber to have Brent (her husband) come over and give me a massage". What???? How much cough syrup and nyquil did you swallow there buddy?

oh, now that's funny.

I overheard the funniest conversation between a mother and her daughter, while standing in line at McDonalds. Let me just preface with I have fed my kids mickey d's in the past and will feed them mickey d's in the future- but i'm no fool. I know the hamburgers contain no measurable amount of beef and I would never think for a second that the chicken nuggets actually contain chicken.
Mom to daughter: what would you like to eat?
Daughter: plain cheeseburger
Mom: honey you had that last night. instead of beef i would really like you to have chicken tonight. why don't you get the chicken nuggets?
Daughter: oh fine.
I don't know why but i just found this so humorous. Wouldn't it have been more accurate for the mom to say......"honey to you want crap wrapped in paper or packaged in a box tonight"?

p.s. I was standing in line for ice-water. i was at the boise airport and this was the most economical option. i just didn't feel like paying $2.00 for bottled water.

Sorry mom but you won't be getting any grandkids from me.

What? no grandchildren! that statement might alarm some BUT I welcomed the words as they tumbled out of my 10 year old's mouth. We had just finished an impromptu "birds and the bees" discussion and his conclusion..... SEX IS GROSS!!!!. Quinn had talked to Reece about "this stuff" prior but apparently Reece had a few clarifying questions. At first I panicked. I almost suggested we google it but then i remembered(or the spirit impressed upon my mind) some advice, given by a respected expert, on the matter. "Just give them the facts when it comes it to sex". With my anatomically correct terms in tow I had me a bonding moment with my son right out on the front lawn. At the conclusion of our "talk" Reece hesitently inquired, " so you and dad have done this"? I answered in the affirmative, reminding him of the 3 children in our family. He then remarked confidently, " oh so you have done it 3 times". The poor kid had already been through so much I thought it would be OK to let him believe that 3 was our magic number. He'll figure it out in time, hopefully after he has returned from a mission, graduated from college and married in the temple. :)

Kids say the darndest things

Just a few one liners that must be recorded and possibly used in the future as ammunition.
-Quincy, as she gazes up at me lovingly, " mom i just can't stop loving you"! - see I will have to pull that one out when she is 15 and I won't let her go to the homecoming dance.
-Reece- " I wish I was a NFL coach-they are so lucky to have the gatorade dumped on them at the end of the game if they win". -a reminder to me that he is ONLY 10 and still does see the world through the eyes of a child.
Trey- oh the potentially incriminating one liners that escape this child's lips are priceless. He is a character.

what did you just say?

Reece, upon entering the car after school, " i need to repent when i get home. i accidentally said the "F" word when I was tackled during football."
Today- I had my whitts about me (aka the companionship of the Holy Ghost). I knew there was no need to lecture him- he already knew the word he used was wrong and unacceptable. What i wanted to focus on more was the fact that his testimony of the atonement was taking root. He knew that he made a mistake and he also knew that he could repent of that mistake and make it right. I was honored that he was willing to expose his imperfections and share that story with me. I think that moment will go down in my books as a great one!

Inquiring minds want to know...

I forgot just how absorbent a 2, almost 3, year old mind could be. My days have been filled with conversations that go like this....
Trey- "mom is that worm dead"?
me-"yes"
Trey-"why"
me-"because the sun dried it all out"
Trey-"why"
Me-"look at those pretty flowers".
Trey-"why are they pretty? who made those flowers? why did they make those flowers".
Trey-"where is your peanut"? (aka penis)
Me-"i don't have a peanut. remember boys have peanuts"
Trey "why"
Me- "go find quincy and ask her".
Trey- "why?"
Trey-"mom where are you going"?
me-" to the bathroom"
Trey "why"
Me-" Seriously Trey go find Quincy"!
Trey-"where is dad"?
me- "he's at work"
Trey-"why"
me-"i don't know. go find Quincy and she can help you call him and you can ask him"!
SERIOUSLY!!!! Please note these are not seperate conversations brought together for this post. This is a sample of one conversation that Trey and I had over the span of 10 minutes which seemed to me like an HOUR!!!!!!

It's Back.....

Haircuts, going to bed @8:30 p.m., getting up @7:00 a.m. to read scriptures, fighting over what to eat for breakfast, wondering where all the clean clothes went, convincing everyone we must leave NOW or we'll be late! That's right school is in session. This year is especially exciting because Quincy started Kindergarten.

Reece and Quincy the night of "meet the teacher".

Quincy standing in line to go into her first day. That's her teacher waiving.

Trey isn't sure he is ready for Quincy to go. He handled it pretty well.

Quincy already hard at work.

After dropping Quincy off I poked my head into Reece's classroom window to give a waive. His teacher came out to see who all the kids were staring at. I apologized for the interruption and explained my presence. She laughed ( i think parents can get away with this behavior on the FIRST day of school)- Reece later told me that some of the kids asked him if the woman at the window was his mother to which he promptly replied he had no idea who I was. He redeemed himself later though because Quincy told me that when he saw her at recess he came over and gave her a hug. At least he's not denying the whole family- yet.

Wildhorse 2009

The Peterson's have been camping in the same place, every third week in July or 1st week in August for about 35 years. Wildhorse, in the Challis national forest, is where it's at for this family. I myself have been a part of this tradition for almost 16 years and I have learned a few helpful tidbits over time.

1. My limit is 3 days- without showers and outhouses for toilets I can't take much more-no matter how much fun i think i'm having.

2. Never hike with Suanne unless following the trail. I have hiked for the last 4 years with this mountain goat and staying on the designated trail is definately the way to go.

3. My kids will get dirtier than I ever imagined BUT they will have more fun than they ever imagined!

4. Bring lots and lots of gas- my kids will ride 4-wheelers and motorcycles all day and never tire.

5. Freezer meals work awesome for camp meals. So much easier.

6. Always bring extra bug spray.

7. Don't bother bringing a book- it's never going to happen.

8. Relax and ENJOY!

Reece, Shevy and Tristen (his cousins).

Trey and I on Cooper's bike.

Trey and Cooper- Trey can't contain his excitement.

Destry standing on top of one of the mountains they rode to.

The kids stayed by Quinn's side most of the time. Why? Because he is the fun parent.

Ready to ride?

Trey, Quincy and mom.

Dad and Quincy.

Trey insisted on roasting his own hotdog.
Camping is not my favorite activity. It costs a lot of money, takes a lot of work and it's dirty. However I can't deny the memories that my family has made over the years and I can wait for the many more to come.

Opposition in all things

Well our summer is officially over in three days. Reece enters 5th grade and Quincy starts kindergarten. It's comforting to know that their classrooms are actually right next to each other. Kindergarteners and 5th graders share a hall- who knew that 5 year age gap would come in so handy. Trey will be one sad little toddler losing his playmate, go to gal, story telling BFF for 3 hours of the day. He may just cry more than me. Which leads me to some stuff that has been on my mind.....as i was taking mental note of how messy my bathroom was the thought popped into mind- how could i ever appreciate a clean bathroom, bedroom, laundry room, kitchen,etc. if it never got messy. I even gain a greater appreciation for a clean body after each camping excursion. so maybe just maybe i shouldn't get so anxious and grumpy when things aren't exactly how i think they should be. I have to experience that ache in my heart and the fear that takes hold as I send my children out into the world to fully appreciate the joy and peace that accompanies them back into the safety of our home. I look forward to what the school year holds for my children and our family. My mind is in a tither right now. i wish i was more talented with translating my thoughts into words. One thing i do know for sure is that the gospel is true. Jesus is the Christ and Heavenly Father has a plan for me.

Dude, that was totally awesome!

Pizza time during games.

Do I really look old enough to have a 10 year old?

They are ready to play.

Sneaky sneaky.

Safety first.

Reece turns 10 on Monday. Unbelievable. Tonight, as parents we achieved major success by throwing Reece the coolest birthday party EVER- oh ya we don't usually let our kids have parties but Quinn said this year should be an exception. so......our kind and generous friends, Jeremy and Lael Haile, cut us a smokin' deal at their paintball field. I realized the party was "all that" when the most common phrase overheard amongst the 10 year olds was, "Dude, that was totally awesome"!

Memory making madness part II

Trey loves to help Grandma Peterson water her beautiful flowers.


Visiting Grandma and Grandpa Peterson's would not be complete without lots of motorcycle riding and at least one bon fire!

Quinn and his highschool mates celebrating their 20th reunion.

Memory making madness Part I

It all started midnight, Sunday, June 29th with the arrival of Shaun, Darcy and three blonde haired, blue eyed beau's. Of course if I was more proficient at picture journaling I would have a picture of the family that kicked off our adventure but alas I'm not perfect. My family and Darcy's family enjoyed 4 days together prior to the arrival of everyone else. We went to Settler's Park, Roaring Springs and Boise Towne Square. Thursday, Grandpa, Grandma, Koda and Bryar graced us and livened up the joint. Forts were erected, rock band was rocked, toy bins were dumped, ibuprofen was popped and fun was had.

We spent 4th of july at the water park- 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. The kids closed the place down. Of course i forgot my camera so not many pics. Avery is enjoying the tube.

Gavin is sporting some cool goggles.

It was so hot when Darcy's family was here we couldn't hit the dunes with them. One cool day presented the rest of us with the opportunity and boy did we have fun. This time I had my camera.

Bryar and Quincy.

Avery, Drew and Trey.

The kiddos climbing one of the sand mountains.

Seriously how was i supposed to know i would get the car stuck if i tried to turn around in the sand? thank goodness for kind citizens with 4-wheel drive.

it's a mystery....

*Why do I wake up @6 a.m. even on the mornings when I can sleep in?
*Why can I run and run for weeks and glimpse barely noticable results BUT simply take a 3 day running hiatus and feel like the pillsbury dough boy?
*Why is it that strands of grey hair went unnoticed in my home mirror but screamed for my attention as I peered, in disbelief, at my reflection, in my temple dress, in the temple dressing room? (it just didn't seem proper to start plucking right then, but I had to- there were so many and they were screaming).
*Why is it I can listen to BYU women's conference for hours, feel completely uplifted spiritually, resolve to do better-be better and then one trip to the mall leaves me feeling deflated, hopelessly out of style, and OLD!( i know, i know....."noone can make you feel inferior without your consent". - elenor roosevelt). but really why?
*Why does time seem to pass more quickly when I am holding a, dear friend's, sleeping, 5 day old little boy?
*Why does the thought of turning 40 make me so anxious and keep me awake at night? what am I really afraid of?
Just a few of life's mysteries that have occupied my mind lately. I think I might have too much time on my hands. Hum, I don't know.

Shhhhhhhhh.......

Sunday Quinn was hanging out up on the stand because he had to give a talk. The kids and I arrived slightly tardy, thus being banished to the chairs in the overflow. After the sacrament Trey was sitting on the floor, in front of my chair. As I leaned forward to hand him something-he immediately grabbed the front of my shirt, attempting to pull it down, inquiring loudly why my "bum bum was up there". apparently "the girls", when bent over at a 2 year old's eye level resemble a bum bum. the worst part is........he's right!

Ode "2" Trey

Trey is.........
Two and a half- enough said.
BUT just for the record he's also......
energetic. independent. creative. smart. vocal. impressionable. empathetic. patient at times. demanding at times. outgoing. inviting. adventureous. curious.
this little guy loves life and he reminds me to lighten up once in a while. he also makes me very tired!

His $.25 purchase at today's yard sale outing. Guess what he's hauling? A booger. Guess where he's hauling his precious freight? To Grandma's house because, and I quote, " she wants to eat it for dinner, mom".

Trey exerting his independence and applying the sunscreen himself.

Whatcha eating Trey? "Oatmeal and it was too hot so I poured my apple juice in it".

Whatcha wearing Trey? "my motorcycle helmet so I can go catch the bad guys". If it looks like the helmet weighs more than he does that's because it does. We LOVE you Trey.

The good ol' days....

Remember the good ol' days when it was actually cute to wear the same outfit as your BFF?

Oh to be young again.