It has been awhile since I listed my Sunday Gratitudes. I've been feeling that I need to start listing all of my blessings again. Here is what I'm grateful for this week:
1. Neurology. Okay, other than the fact that my neurology class this semester is giving me fits, I love it. I want to specialize in geriatric issues and strokes and dementia fascinate me. How the brain works, wires and rewires itself, and how each of us have the same brain is incredible to me. I want to learn more - much more. So glad I bought my neurology texts instead of renting them. I might even be able to understand them better when I finally get to grad school.
2. Scriptures. There has been something wonderful about reading scriptures with Mr. Wonderful and the kids this past week. We switched from being formal in the living room to everyone piling on top of my bed. We've gone from just reading to discussing, teaching, and sharing ideas. Thirdborn and The Love Magnet have gotten excited about the scriptures and make sure we stop everything at 8:00 for scripture reading. I've felt closer to God every day this past week. My prayers are more meaningful. I've felt more peaceful. Heaven knows I need more peace.
3. Sharing. I've been able to share my beliefs about God and Jesus Christ with some friends this past week. Honestly, it was with one person in particular whom I never thought would want to have that kind of conversation. I'm so grateful that she would share her thoughts and feelings with me. She strengthened my testimony in God's love for each of us. No one is ever beneath His notice. He cares about everyone.
4. My classmates. The Love Magnet was sick this past week. My classmates took notes for me. Huge gratitude to them for keeping me afloat.
5. Time alone with my love. Mr. Wonderful had to take a business trip to a small town in Oregon. Thanks, love, for suggesting I meet you there. We stayed in a 110+ year hotel, watched movies, and totally kicked back. Too bad he had to go back to meetings the next morning. I drove myself there and back. Boring ride with no working stereo in the car, but at least I got to spend time with Mr. Wonderful.
6. Family History. My mother-in-love has been helping me with my family history. We uncovered a branch on my paternal side that now goes back another 100 years and found that I had ancestors in Germany. Seriously? Before, I only knew that my paternal ancestors came from England and Holland. Still don't know much of what I am doing, and really wish I had better access to the materials I need. Also, I don't have a lot of time to do any research with school, so I limit my research to Sundays. Still, it has been fun and I'm eternally grateful to Mr. Wonderful's mom for mentoring me. She is amazing when it comes to family history.
7. Organ. My first month of playing organ in Sacrament Meeting is done. I also played today as a sub. I requested an organ workshop of sorts and the stake has put one together to start this month. I'm actually excited to learn more. I've really enjoyed this past month. I haven't practiced that much or regularly in decades - I actually log 1 hr/day for 5-6 days a week. As soon as I get to Utah on break, I want to hit my fave music store for some organ books. I'm determined to get better with pedals and registers.
Sunday, March 06, 2011
Tuesday, March 01, 2011
Scarehaircare: Future Clinician
After 3 1/2 semesters of observing in clinic (behind mirrored glass so the clients couldn't see me), I did something monumental today.
I stepped into the clinic as a student-clinician and took charge of part of the therapy.
Ohmiheavens
I LOVE THIS PROFESSION!
It was a little nerve wracking. I was more intimidated by the possible people behind the glass (Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain!") than I was the kiddo in front of me. I didn't have to plan the therapy (this time). All I had to do was take the graduate-clinicians notes and follow them. Nice ease into therapy. It. Was. Awesome.
Coming up later this semester: I have to plan and implement two half-sessions of therapy for the same kiddo and then one entire session. I'm looking forward to it.
Huge thanks to my graduate-clinician I am following around this semester. Before we went to retrieve kiddo and his mama for therapy, my graduate-clinician shared with me her most embarrassing first-time-ever experience as a graduate-clinician. It broke the ice for me and really eased up nerves I was feeling.
Pssst - I am excitedly/nervously awaiting any word from the grad schools I've applied to. Hopefully three very specific words along the lines of "We Want YOU!" will be arriving sooner than later.
Pssst again - HUGE CONGRATS TO ASH! She received word today that she was accepted to IOWA (only the #1 school for Audiology research in the entire nation!) Woot-woot, Ashley!
I stepped into the clinic as a student-clinician and took charge of part of the therapy.
Ohmiheavens
I LOVE THIS PROFESSION!
It was a little nerve wracking. I was more intimidated by the possible people behind the glass (Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain!") than I was the kiddo in front of me. I didn't have to plan the therapy (this time). All I had to do was take the graduate-clinicians notes and follow them. Nice ease into therapy. It. Was. Awesome.
Coming up later this semester: I have to plan and implement two half-sessions of therapy for the same kiddo and then one entire session. I'm looking forward to it.
Huge thanks to my graduate-clinician I am following around this semester. Before we went to retrieve kiddo and his mama for therapy, my graduate-clinician shared with me her most embarrassing first-time-ever experience as a graduate-clinician. It broke the ice for me and really eased up nerves I was feeling.
Pssst - I am excitedly/nervously awaiting any word from the grad schools I've applied to. Hopefully three very specific words along the lines of "We Want YOU!" will be arriving sooner than later.
Pssst again - HUGE CONGRATS TO ASH! She received word today that she was accepted to IOWA (only the #1 school for Audiology research in the entire nation!) Woot-woot, Ashley!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
14 Days of Valentines: Dinner for your Sweetheart
(Blackberry Almond Torte)Okay, I am breaking down meals and recipes ideas.
FOOLPROOF: If you are intimidated in the kitchen, or if you want easy, this is the meal for you. Alton Brown's Pan-Seared Rib Eye Steak. It. Works. Every. Time. Pair this with a loaded baked potato and whatever your lover will eat for a veg. If you have a Costco card, get the Lobster Bisque in the refrigerated section for your first course and then head to their freezer section for their cream puffs (drizzle them with chocolate and top with fresh berries) or the bite size Cheesecake factory cheesecakes. Easy, easy, easy.
(Halibut Oscar)SEAFOOD WITH AN ATTITUDE: This is Mr. Wonderful's favorite. Halibut Oscar using the rescipe from Utah's Gastronomy restaurants. Add previously mentioned lobster bisque or a green salad topped with shrimp. Dessert is Creme Brulee or the Raspberry Almond Torte (I prefer fresh blackberries). Yes, it requires a little confidence in the cooking department. But this is not rocket science. You can do this. I will - because Mr. Wonderful actually requested it this year! I know! Will wonders never cease? (Okay, I know that pic isn't plated well. Just trust me, this recipe is delicious.)
(Creme Brulee with Blackberries)CHICKEN UGLY: Actually, it is called Chicken Aglio e Olio and it isn't ugly. It's easy, restaurant quality, and it is divine. Serve it over rice with sauteed green beans on the side. We call it Chicken Ugly because that is what The Love Magnet calls it. She can't pronounce the other. The name stuck.
(Chicken Aglio e Olio)VEGETARIAN DOES NOT MEAN BORING: Ignore the pork chops in this recipe and make the Pumpkin Polenta. Top with Wolfgang Puck's version of Roasted Root Vegetables. Yes it makes a lot of veg, just half it or love the leftovers. Serve chocolate fondue for dessert. Feed each other. The colors of the veg are gorgeous in this. I would add some sauteed mushrooms.
There you go. A menu you didn't have to think about. Let me know how you like them.
Saturday, February 05, 2011
14 Days of Valentines: Days 4 and 5
The 4th Days of Valentines included movie tix with a note to take me to that manly-man flick coming soon that I know he wants to see. I didn't buy Red Vines since I noticed he had a stash in his truck.
The 5th Day of Valentines was something completely new wrapped around an old idea. A note involving a complicated romantic math equation (new idea) with the solution being the old idea. That's all I'm going to say about that.
Thursday, February 03, 2011
Tea party coming soon.....and HUGE thanks!
I apologize for blogging this so late. This is a huge thanks to Cookie Jilly. She had a tea set from Thailand and knew that somebody was looking for a teapot and a few more items to expand the tea set collection.
Look how gorgeous these are. The Love Magnet was excited as she watched me open the package. She thought is was from a princess.
Isn't this absolutely gorgeous? I've never seen anything like it.
It's being displayed in my double display case near the kitchen. And I am anxiously awaiting an excuse to give a tea party. Which means I need guests. Any volunteers?
Jilly, thanks so much. You are so incredibly generous.Will the rest of you please pray for Jilly's family? She has loved ones who live in Egypt. With all of the fighting going on in Egypt right now, we are praying for their safety.
Birthday Celebration of Firstborn
I tried to document Firstborn's 18th Birthday dinner. Unfortunately my broken camera has decided to be really broken or at least contrary to my wishes. Blurry pics. Bleh.
But the memories are there. Secondborn wasn't too thrilled to be relegated to the family table while the other teens sat by themselves.
J, S, A. Oh my heavens, I love these kids. They have been awesome friends.
C, Firstborn, and V. Love these kids. Love, I tell you!
We took everyone out to Brazilian Barbecue. Churrascaria. The best thing (besides the food) is that they make the birthday boy stand up on the bench....
and dance for the entire room. Firstborn was a good sport. 'A' got a great vid of the entire experience and promised to send it to me.
I am thrilled that Firstborn has good friends who keep each other in line.
After consuming mass quantities of meat, and even more mass quantities of pasta salad, beans and rice, and mashed potatoes, The Love Magnet lay back and declared"Oh, I DONE!"
Firstborn asked if she had a big belly to prove it. She complied. It took some explaining that she shouldn't lift her shirt too high.
It was the boys first time at a Churrascaria. Thirdborn was done, too. Everyone stuffed themselves silly. It was the ultimate carnivore birthday party.
Firstborn asked if she had a big belly to prove it. She complied. It took some explaining that she shouldn't lift her shirt too high.
It was the boys first time at a Churrascaria. Thirdborn was done, too. Everyone stuffed themselves silly. It was the ultimate carnivore birthday party.
14 Days of Valentines: Days 1, 2, and 3
Day 1 ended up being a surprise on his truck seat early in the a.m.: a cute box of icecream flavored Jelly Bellys with a cute note telling him that his kisses turn my belly to jelly. I know, corny. But cute. But no picture, a.s The Love Magnet absconded with the jelly beans soon after Mr. Wonderful arrived home.
Day 2 was The Triathlon Training Bible and a stick of Body Glide with a very cheesey poem about how cute he looks in his fit body and the presents are supposed to help him ride and glide. I can't quit laughing over that one!) He thought it was great.
Day 3 is Firstborn's bday. Today I left a note on his side of the bed about the memory of the day our first child was born. Mr. Wonderful held me and cheered me and consoled me when the labor got difficult. Then he named our son after my brother who is now in Heaven. It really touched my heart. He knows how much it meant to me.
Tomorrow will be a very simple creation of our first dance together along with a note of that memory.
Day 2 was The Triathlon Training Bible and a stick of Body Glide with a very cheesey poem about how cute he looks in his fit body and the presents are supposed to help him ride and glide. I can't quit laughing over that one!) He thought it was great.
Day 3 is Firstborn's bday. Today I left a note on his side of the bed about the memory of the day our first child was born. Mr. Wonderful held me and cheered me and consoled me when the labor got difficult. Then he named our son after my brother who is now in Heaven. It really touched my heart. He knows how much it meant to me.
Tomorrow will be a very simple creation of our first dance together along with a note of that memory.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Speech, reading, and Down syndrome -or- funny things The Love Magnet says:
"Mom, I read Poobs magazine. Can we get Poobs magazine?" The Love Magnet looked at me expectantly through the rear view mirror as we drove home from swim lessons. It wasn't her look charming and irresistible so I can get what I want look. It was a genuine I read something that was really cool and I want to share it with you look. But, Poobs? Wait.......MY DAUGHTER READS MAGAZINES?!
"Honey, I have never read Poobs magazine. What is it?" I had no idea. Have you ever heard of it?
"Mom, it Poobs magazine. It really cool!"
"Honey", I answered, "I don't know anything about Poobs magazine. Where did you read it? What was in it?"
"I read it at J's", she said definitively, as if it solved everything. Okay, the family who takes her to school twice a week. The Js are helping me so I can attend my early class.
"Do you want me to call Js and ask them about it? Or you can tell me what you read in it."
The Love Magnet grinned from ear to ear. She tilted her head to one side and put her pointer finger against her cheek. She thinks this is what people do when they are thinking. The kid is literal. "It about Clifford-the-big-red-dog an' Martha speak and dinosaurs!"
Hmmm. My mind tried to find the combination between these odd subjects. Brain cells coalesced ideas until the fog dissipated.
"Love Magnet, do you mean PBS magazine?"
My daughter threw her hands in the air. "That it, Mom! Poobs magazine."
"Honey, its pronounced P-B-S. PBS magazine."
"PBS! That spells Poobs, Mom!"
PBS, you might consider changing your pronunciation. I doubt The Love Magnet is the only child who thinks this way.
"Honey, I have never read Poobs magazine. What is it?" I had no idea. Have you ever heard of it?
"Mom, it Poobs magazine. It really cool!"
"Honey", I answered, "I don't know anything about Poobs magazine. Where did you read it? What was in it?"
"I read it at J's", she said definitively, as if it solved everything. Okay, the family who takes her to school twice a week. The Js are helping me so I can attend my early class.
"Do you want me to call Js and ask them about it? Or you can tell me what you read in it."
The Love Magnet grinned from ear to ear. She tilted her head to one side and put her pointer finger against her cheek. She thinks this is what people do when they are thinking. The kid is literal. "It about Clifford-the-big-red-dog an' Martha speak and dinosaurs!"
Hmmm. My mind tried to find the combination between these odd subjects. Brain cells coalesced ideas until the fog dissipated.
"Love Magnet, do you mean PBS magazine?"
My daughter threw her hands in the air. "That it, Mom! Poobs magazine."
"Honey, its pronounced P-B-S. PBS magazine."
"PBS! That spells Poobs, Mom!"
PBS, you might consider changing your pronunciation. I doubt The Love Magnet is the only child who thinks this way.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
14 Days of Valentines - Dinner ideas
I am narrowing down what I want to make for dinner. The kids always get a pizza early and then head upstairs for a DVD. I think Firstborn will be out on a date and Secondborn will be out with friends.
I've had my eye on the recipe for Lobster and Tomato Fettucine from my favorite restaurant Market Street Broiler. I've never made it before, nor have I ever cooked a lobster on my own. Shouldn't be too hard, should it? The dish sounds divine, but it would mean not doing a cream based dessert and my creme brulee recipe from the same place is my go-to dessert. Hmmm.
There is always my fall-back staple entree: Alton Brown's Pan Seared Rib Eye with roasted garlic mashed potatoes. It's foolproof when you want to make a really good steak. One rib-eye is big enough for the two of us. I like to add caramelized onions, sauteed 'shrooms, and crumbled Stilton. If I do this then I will also add bacon wrapped scallops.
I'm going easy on sides this year since I always serve too much food. Along with a loaf of really good bread from a local bakery, I'm making a simple Pear and spinach salad (swapping out the cranberries in favor of pomegranate).
Dessert will most likely be a Blackberry and Almond Torte recipe, also from Market Street. The presentation is gorgeous and I haven't made one for a few years. It's time.
Other ideas can be found in a previous blog post here. Or get already prepped food from Costco that you only have to heat (the Miso-glazed cod from the freezer section is tasty) or get your fave takeout. For dessert, get brownie bites and fruit from the store and melt chocolate for fondue. Or head to your fave bakery for a cupcakes, ultimate chocolate cake, or fruit tarts. You could layer cubes of purchased pound cake, fruit, and whip cream in flute glasses or those cute mini trifle glasses I've seen at Target and Walmart. Go to your fave chocolatier, purchase 8 different kinds of truffles and have a truffle tasting. (This surprisingly went over really well on a date night I planned last summer. If you don't do it for V-day, plan it for a romantic picnic ASAP).
I've said this every year, but it bears repeating. It doesn't matter what you do. Your Mr. Wonderful will appreciate the effort. Spending time making him feel loved it the only goal.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
14 Days of Valentines Plan-o'-Days
Sorry, this is a bit later than I promised. But here it is (*cue fanfare*) My 14 Days of Valentines game plan:
Day 1 (Tuesday): One gift basket full of all the triathlon and training stuff he keeps meaning to get but never has time, plus a note telling him how sexy I think he looks in his bike gear.
Day 2 (Wednesday): Me and You - a letter with my plans for our special Valentine's dinner.
Day 3 (Thursday): movie tickets and red vines candy. (Remember this is Firstborn's birthday so keeping it low key.)
Day 4 (Friday): 4-ever in love with you (recreating our first dance. Must get CD or MP3 download of Simple Mind's Don't You Forget About Me.) Yeah. That's when I first fell in love with him.
Day 5 (Saturday): 4 beautiful children and one cute wife pictures for his office. Irreverent silly pictures. Or just baby pictures including mine where my mom gave me a flat top. Seriously)
Day 6 (Sunday): Breakfast in bed with Pineapple Rolls, thick cut bacon, and a mushroom and Gruyere omelet.
Day 7 (Monday): One banana cream pie (his favorite) for Family Home Evening treat, with accompanying cheesy poetry.
Day 8 (Tuesday): Madness Make-It-G0-Away. I take the kids out and he gets downtime to do whatever he wants. Provide latest book he said he wanted to read, make sure his gym clothes are clean if he wants to work out. Dinner will be homemade pizza with a pepperoni heart.
Day 9 (Wednesday): Love note about our 20th Valentine's Day together and reminiscing about our 1st one.
Day 10 (Thursday): Ten Things I Love About You (written in calligraphy on a scroll)
Day 11 (Friday) Date night. Trip to the temple to do sealing and remember our own sealing in the Salt Lake Temple. Followed by dessert at our fave place.
Day 12 (Saturday) Valentines Dinner. Put kids to bed early. Menu will be posted soon.
Day 13 (Sunday) 13 Ways to say I Love You written on his truck in those fun window paints. Yes he will have to wash the car but he will have to wait until Monday. *grinning*
Day 14 (Monday) Home Evening about the importance of being a good husband. This is geared towards the boys, using their dad as an example.
I am particularly excited about days 11 and 13. SO EXCITED for V-Day 2011! Tell me about your plans, especially if this is the first year you try it. As always, look on the right side of the blog for the label cloud and click on 14 Days of Valentines for intro to the whole shebang and even more ideas on what to do to romance your Mr. Wonderful.
Day 1 (Tuesday): One gift basket full of all the triathlon and training stuff he keeps meaning to get but never has time, plus a note telling him how sexy I think he looks in his bike gear.
Day 2 (Wednesday): Me and You - a letter with my plans for our special Valentine's dinner.
Day 3 (Thursday): movie tickets and red vines candy. (Remember this is Firstborn's birthday so keeping it low key.)
Day 4 (Friday): 4-ever in love with you (recreating our first dance. Must get CD or MP3 download of Simple Mind's Don't You Forget About Me.) Yeah. That's when I first fell in love with him.
Day 5 (Saturday): 4 beautiful children and one cute wife pictures for his office. Irreverent silly pictures. Or just baby pictures including mine where my mom gave me a flat top. Seriously)
Day 6 (Sunday): Breakfast in bed with Pineapple Rolls, thick cut bacon, and a mushroom and Gruyere omelet.
Day 7 (Monday): One banana cream pie (his favorite) for Family Home Evening treat, with accompanying cheesy poetry.
Day 8 (Tuesday): Madness Make-It-G0-Away. I take the kids out and he gets downtime to do whatever he wants. Provide latest book he said he wanted to read, make sure his gym clothes are clean if he wants to work out. Dinner will be homemade pizza with a pepperoni heart.
Day 9 (Wednesday): Love note about our 20th Valentine's Day together and reminiscing about our 1st one.
Day 10 (Thursday): Ten Things I Love About You (written in calligraphy on a scroll)
Day 11 (Friday) Date night. Trip to the temple to do sealing and remember our own sealing in the Salt Lake Temple. Followed by dessert at our fave place.
Day 12 (Saturday) Valentines Dinner. Put kids to bed early. Menu will be posted soon.
Day 13 (Sunday) 13 Ways to say I Love You written on his truck in those fun window paints. Yes he will have to wash the car but he will have to wait until Monday. *grinning*
Day 14 (Monday) Home Evening about the importance of being a good husband. This is geared towards the boys, using their dad as an example.
I am particularly excited about days 11 and 13. SO EXCITED for V-Day 2011! Tell me about your plans, especially if this is the first year you try it. As always, look on the right side of the blog for the label cloud and click on 14 Days of Valentines for intro to the whole shebang and even more ideas on what to do to romance your Mr. Wonderful.
Sunday, January 09, 2011
Real, honest-to-goodness, not-family-but-friends LATEOVER
Last night was another first for The Love Magnet. Her first lateover. Her first real not-family-but-friends lateover. She has never been that long away from me without other family members keeping track of her. And she loved it.
"Mom. I go in all by myself. You not invited. It's my lateover."
She was determined that I understood completely that I was not welcome.
The one thing I regret from having The Love Magnet repeat first grade was that she didn't continue on with her friends. Those kids really looked out for her. They invited her to birthday parties. They came over to play or to swim. The kids in her current grade haven't done the same. The closeness just isn't there. But one girl in particular who has gone ahead a year still invites her to birthday parties. God bless that family for remembering my daughter.
We went to Wallgreens to get a present. The Love Magnet knew exactly what she wanted to get: 4 uber-bright colors of nail polish (yellow, aqua, fuchsia, and sparkly purple), nail stickers, hair pretties and a matching necklace that changed colors when exposed to sunlight. Girl stuff.
She asked nonstop every waking hour for three days "When we go to party, Mom? Don't forget it at 5:00." I was quizzed to make sure I knew when to go. She made sure I knew where to go. Finally, when it was time, she reminded me for the entire 15 minute ride that I was not to go in the house. I promised that I would stay at the door.
She hugged me goodbye and tried to push me out.
I worried a little bit. I have no problem admitting it up front. The Love Magnet was gone for 4 hours. I trusted the family. I just wondered if my daughter would remember her manners. I worried if she would stay with the girls and not go off on her own to play with toys. I was afraid that she would forget to use the bathroom in all the excitement and have an accident.
When I picked her up, she was disappointed to see me. She must have been tired, because other than the initial expression of not wanting to be the first girl picked up by her parents, she put her shoes on and hugged everyone goodbye. She thanked the mom who hosted the event (and looked her in the eyes while speaking to her! - HUGE VICTORY! My DS moms will understand that.)
On the way home, The Love Magnet announced to her brother and his friends (whom I just picked up at the Y) that she was tired. She hugged her daddy and me and went straight to bed when we got home.
I'm cheering the independence. I'm thrilled about the remembered friendships. I'm at peace with her growing up.
I'm thinking we need to host more playdates and a lateover. Encourage more friendships.
"Mom. I go in all by myself. You not invited. It's my lateover."
She was determined that I understood completely that I was not welcome.
The one thing I regret from having The Love Magnet repeat first grade was that she didn't continue on with her friends. Those kids really looked out for her. They invited her to birthday parties. They came over to play or to swim. The kids in her current grade haven't done the same. The closeness just isn't there. But one girl in particular who has gone ahead a year still invites her to birthday parties. God bless that family for remembering my daughter.
We went to Wallgreens to get a present. The Love Magnet knew exactly what she wanted to get: 4 uber-bright colors of nail polish (yellow, aqua, fuchsia, and sparkly purple), nail stickers, hair pretties and a matching necklace that changed colors when exposed to sunlight. Girl stuff.
She asked nonstop every waking hour for three days "When we go to party, Mom? Don't forget it at 5:00." I was quizzed to make sure I knew when to go. She made sure I knew where to go. Finally, when it was time, she reminded me for the entire 15 minute ride that I was not to go in the house. I promised that I would stay at the door.
She hugged me goodbye and tried to push me out.
I worried a little bit. I have no problem admitting it up front. The Love Magnet was gone for 4 hours. I trusted the family. I just wondered if my daughter would remember her manners. I worried if she would stay with the girls and not go off on her own to play with toys. I was afraid that she would forget to use the bathroom in all the excitement and have an accident.
When I picked her up, she was disappointed to see me. She must have been tired, because other than the initial expression of not wanting to be the first girl picked up by her parents, she put her shoes on and hugged everyone goodbye. She thanked the mom who hosted the event (and looked her in the eyes while speaking to her! - HUGE VICTORY! My DS moms will understand that.)
On the way home, The Love Magnet announced to her brother and his friends (whom I just picked up at the Y) that she was tired. She hugged her daddy and me and went straight to bed when we got home.
I'm cheering the independence. I'm thrilled about the remembered friendships. I'm at peace with her growing up.
I'm thinking we need to host more playdates and a lateover. Encourage more friendships.
Thursday, January 06, 2011
THE 14 DAYS OF VALENTINES 2011
(psst.....Mr. Wonderful...go away, you are not allowed to read this)
Are you ready for some R*O*M*A*N*C*E?! It's that time of year again (woot-woot!). Get ready to smother your lover/hug your honey/make your man feel 20 feet tall.
For those of you who have never done this, here is the 411 (dude, I am so hip!):
* Think up a little something to do for you Mr. Wonderful for every single day in February from the 1st and culminating on the 14th with you making a special supper for the two of you. (Don't worry if you don't cook. I have advice to make it easy for you.)
*Inexpensive and creative is the way to go.
*Borrowing/stealing ideas from others or past years is perfectly acceptable.
*Jewelry, flowers, or reciprocation in kind from your man IS NOT THE GOAL. This is unselfish, sweet love.
WHY DO THIS? Because he deserves it. Period.
Easy peasey. Check out the right side bar and scroll down to The 14 Days of Valentines for ideas. I will post my ideas by Saturday. Early planning is the key. Ideas can cost little or even be free. Think romantic and fun.
ON YOUR MARK!
GET SET!
GO!
Wednesday, January 05, 2011
New Years Resolutions thrust upon me
I wasn't going to make any New Years Resolutions. I have my goals already laid out: make it through my last semester, graduate (!) with my Bachelors in Communication Sciences and Disorders, put my house somewhat in order and hopefully keep it that way, and juggle my schedule plus kids tutoring, swim lessons, climbing lessons....
(Did you know that the YMCA has climbing lessons and a competitive climbing team called The Rock Stars? Thirdborn is swooning. Unfortunately the 101 class is full and he has to wait until next month. But I digress......)
Today I sat in front of the organ at church. Listened to podcast lesson #2 "First Steps In Pedal Playing". Practice my pedal work. Sounded like a first year piano student.
Agony.
The organ amplifies my every mistake. The medial area of my right knee hurts and I wonder why. It's worse when I try to navigate the pedals heel-toe. I have to sit ram-rod straight and barely on the organ bench in order to make that heel-toe motion work. Along with the discomfort, I mourn the straight posture I used to have way back during the Jurassic Period. Before color was invented. Eons ago. It's exhausting to sit that straight for 4 verses of a hymn.
It's hard for me to not be good at something. And this organ playing humbling me. I'm scheduled to play organ in two weeks in Sacrament Meeting and I realize now that it is not nearly enough time. As I told the Ward Music Chairperson "I won't be an organist, but at least I will be willing". I am impatient and want to see improvement now. Uh.......now. No...........now! No improvement after an hour of practice. I pack up my laptop, binder of printed material for the online podcast course, and my brand-spankin'-new huge spiral bound hymnbook. The kind organists use. Because I am an organist. At least I'm trying to pretend to be one.
I need organ shoes.
I said a little prayer yesterday before I started my first practice. I asked Heavenly Father if he would mind loaning me Sis. Larson (my piano teacher for 8 years) to whisper in my ear until I got the hang of this. Its going to take months and I need a mentor.
Magnify my calling. Hope. Believe. Endure joyfully. No bad attitude.
I'm still impatient. Do I need to repent for that?
(Did you know that the YMCA has climbing lessons and a competitive climbing team called The Rock Stars? Thirdborn is swooning. Unfortunately the 101 class is full and he has to wait until next month. But I digress......)
Today I sat in front of the organ at church. Listened to podcast lesson #2 "First Steps In Pedal Playing". Practice my pedal work. Sounded like a first year piano student.
Agony.
The organ amplifies my every mistake. The medial area of my right knee hurts and I wonder why. It's worse when I try to navigate the pedals heel-toe. I have to sit ram-rod straight and barely on the organ bench in order to make that heel-toe motion work. Along with the discomfort, I mourn the straight posture I used to have way back during the Jurassic Period. Before color was invented. Eons ago. It's exhausting to sit that straight for 4 verses of a hymn.
It's hard for me to not be good at something. And this organ playing humbling me. I'm scheduled to play organ in two weeks in Sacrament Meeting and I realize now that it is not nearly enough time. As I told the Ward Music Chairperson "I won't be an organist, but at least I will be willing". I am impatient and want to see improvement now. Uh.......now. No...........now! No improvement after an hour of practice. I pack up my laptop, binder of printed material for the online podcast course, and my brand-spankin'-new huge spiral bound hymnbook. The kind organists use. Because I am an organist. At least I'm trying to pretend to be one.
I need organ shoes.
I said a little prayer yesterday before I started my first practice. I asked Heavenly Father if he would mind loaning me Sis. Larson (my piano teacher for 8 years) to whisper in my ear until I got the hang of this. Its going to take months and I need a mentor.
Magnify my calling. Hope. Believe. Endure joyfully. No bad attitude.
I'm still impatient. Do I need to repent for that?
Monday, January 03, 2011
Believe. Hope. Endure Joyfully. Welcome 2011!
The textbooks have come. Sticker shock over the $150+ price tag of my Educational Audiology paperback textbook as well as the $50+ price tag of Topical Diagnosis in Neurology textbooks whose size I can easily fit into my purse. I can already tell you that my Neurology class is going to be incredibly tough. Still, I am looking forward to it.
Last semester, blog peeps. I am getting my B.S. in Communication Disorders in May. Twenty years after my original plan of when it was supposed to happen (albeit with a B.A. in Musical Dance Theater way back in the '91) I am going to graduate.
Can you hear the angels singing? Oh, yeah, I can.
Today's plans include more sticker shock as I go pay my tuition for the semester. Then it's off to practice the organ at church. Yesterday I was called to be the Assistant Ward Organist. I have a feeling my old piano teacher, Sister Larson, is up in heaven pointing her finger at me and saying "I told you that you needed to learn organ!" I have downloaded and printed BYU's The New Organist program and will listen to the free accompanying MP3 lectures from iTunes. BTW, those lectures and printouts are FREE if you are interested. 12 lessons in all and the claim is that it should turn me into an organist or at least put me on the path. BYU also has their yearly organ workshops (this year it starts August 2nd) which I am seriously looking into attending. I used to love their choir workshops.
As for the title of my first blog in 2011, it comes from a talk I gave the last Sunday in 2010 in my ward. Mr. Wonderful, Secondborn, and I were asked to focus on the topic of the 13th Article of Faith. My talk was about the middle: "We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things." I took the liberty of changing it a bit to "....and hope to be able to endure all things joyfully". My goals for 2011.
Last semester, blog peeps. I am getting my B.S. in Communication Disorders in May. Twenty years after my original plan of when it was supposed to happen (albeit with a B.A. in Musical Dance Theater way back in the '91) I am going to graduate.
Can you hear the angels singing? Oh, yeah, I can.
Today's plans include more sticker shock as I go pay my tuition for the semester. Then it's off to practice the organ at church. Yesterday I was called to be the Assistant Ward Organist. I have a feeling my old piano teacher, Sister Larson, is up in heaven pointing her finger at me and saying "I told you that you needed to learn organ!" I have downloaded and printed BYU's The New Organist program and will listen to the free accompanying MP3 lectures from iTunes. BTW, those lectures and printouts are FREE if you are interested. 12 lessons in all and the claim is that it should turn me into an organist or at least put me on the path. BYU also has their yearly organ workshops (this year it starts August 2nd) which I am seriously looking into attending. I used to love their choir workshops.
As for the title of my first blog in 2011, it comes from a talk I gave the last Sunday in 2010 in my ward. Mr. Wonderful, Secondborn, and I were asked to focus on the topic of the 13th Article of Faith. My talk was about the middle: "We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things." I took the liberty of changing it a bit to "....and hope to be able to endure all things joyfully". My goals for 2011.
Monday, December 27, 2010
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Christmas Activities
The annual high schools Christmas choir performance. This year Firstborn was singing in Acapella choir. They were great. It brought back so many memories of high school *mumble-mumble* years ago. Too bad this choir doesn't also sing Hallelujah chorus and O Holy Night with alumni. I'd go up there and sing.
No pics of this, but my stake also had their Christmas fireside. I directed the YM/YW choir in Peace, Peace, Peace and the stake choir in The Hallelujah Chorus. I love my singers - they sounded beautiful. Their singing always starts the Christmas season for me.
We decorated the tree and put up the Christmas village. I'm missing at least three buildings and have no idea what happened to them.
Now the neighbor treats are done, I'm going to make gingerbread and sugar cookie dough for cookie decorating tomorrow. Dinner is simmering on the stove. Fall semester is done so I don't have to stress over studying. Life is good.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
The Ultimate, Most Fabulous, Tee-rific, Uber Cool, Awesomest Christmas Gift EVER!
I know it is hard to see behind Mr. Wonderful and Firstborn - that is a helicopter. I decided that a gift of an experience would be great this year. Since Firstborn wants to be a pilot ( of planes, not helicopters, but that might change) I bought them a helicopter tour to see the Christmas lights downtown.
It rocked.
IT ROCKED!
I thought I would be scared silly due to my fear of heights. It was just incredibly cool. We flew around the capitol building, past the historic area, and around downtown. The view was amazing. So worth every cent to see the look on my son's face.
I am now the very cool queen-mom who won't quit patting herself on the back.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Coming up for air.....
I'm typing this while laying on the couch. The Love Magnet is snuggled against my side, fast asleep. For once, she isn't snoring. Poor thing, at least her cold seems to be getting better.
I thought that as soon as finals were over, I'd be totally relaxing and posting and baking and shopping and planning and......um, no. Scratch the relaxing part. Other than Mondays epic sleep-in-til-eight-a.m. (which was amazing, thankyouverymuch), I've been uber busy getting together graduate school applications. My Statement of Purpose has been edited (thank you so much, Cousin Anna) and all that is left is making sure the GRE scores and transcripts get to where they need to go.
Baking and treat delivery tomorrow. Wrapping happened this afternoon (I've lost one present already. It can't have gone far since I put everything in my closet and don't bother to hide it).
I prevented Thirdborn from buying handcuffs for The Love Magnet. I knew he would end up handcuffing her to something just to keep her out of his room. Instead, he was very smart and bought her a recorder/tambourine set so she would leave his recorder alone. The Love Magnet bought Secondborn a new wallet to replace the one he lost (it comes with a pocket size pliers/LED light/knife/screwdriver thingamabob that will surely be useful).
I arranged for the most fabulous gift for Mr. Wonderful and Firstborn: a helicopter tour over downtown to see the holiday lights. I figured since Firstborn wants to be a pilot, and Groupon had a fab deal of half off the tour, it would be perfect. Perfect was supposed to happen last Saturday night but was canceled due to weather. Rescheduled for this week. I'm really looking forward to seeing their faces.
I also bought and framed professional pics from Mr. Wonderful's first triathlon. I'm sure he'll be excited to see those. I am so proud of his accomplishments and I wanted the pics to be an ever-present bragging reminder of how cool he is.
The Love Magnet has requested that we make sugar cookies this week. So tomorrow a batch of sugar cookie dough and a batch of gingerbread dough will go into the fridge for Thursday. In the meantime, I have a house to clean. We are hosting Christmas dinner this year. I have new place mats (scored 80% off at Kohls) and a few things to make in advance. Christmas dinner will be ham with a whole mustard and apricot glaze, Grandma S' cranberry sauce, pickles in her cut-glass pickle dish, brie and crackers, hot crab and artichoke dip, and a gingerbread, lemon curd and blackberry trifle along with a place of Christmas cookies. My aunt and uncle will be bringing veg, potatoes, and their famous homemade bread.
Many pics coming up. But right now, my arm is asleep. I've got to figure out how to disentangle myself from The Love Magnet and carry her up to bed.
I thought that as soon as finals were over, I'd be totally relaxing and posting and baking and shopping and planning and......um, no. Scratch the relaxing part. Other than Mondays epic sleep-in-til-eight-a.m. (which was amazing, thankyouverymuch), I've been uber busy getting together graduate school applications. My Statement of Purpose has been edited (thank you so much, Cousin Anna) and all that is left is making sure the GRE scores and transcripts get to where they need to go.
Baking and treat delivery tomorrow. Wrapping happened this afternoon (I've lost one present already. It can't have gone far since I put everything in my closet and don't bother to hide it).
I prevented Thirdborn from buying handcuffs for The Love Magnet. I knew he would end up handcuffing her to something just to keep her out of his room. Instead, he was very smart and bought her a recorder/tambourine set so she would leave his recorder alone. The Love Magnet bought Secondborn a new wallet to replace the one he lost (it comes with a pocket size pliers/LED light/knife/screwdriver thingamabob that will surely be useful).
I arranged for the most fabulous gift for Mr. Wonderful and Firstborn: a helicopter tour over downtown to see the holiday lights. I figured since Firstborn wants to be a pilot, and Groupon had a fab deal of half off the tour, it would be perfect. Perfect was supposed to happen last Saturday night but was canceled due to weather. Rescheduled for this week. I'm really looking forward to seeing their faces.
I also bought and framed professional pics from Mr. Wonderful's first triathlon. I'm sure he'll be excited to see those. I am so proud of his accomplishments and I wanted the pics to be an ever-present bragging reminder of how cool he is.
The Love Magnet has requested that we make sugar cookies this week. So tomorrow a batch of sugar cookie dough and a batch of gingerbread dough will go into the fridge for Thursday. In the meantime, I have a house to clean. We are hosting Christmas dinner this year. I have new place mats (scored 80% off at Kohls) and a few things to make in advance. Christmas dinner will be ham with a whole mustard and apricot glaze, Grandma S' cranberry sauce, pickles in her cut-glass pickle dish, brie and crackers, hot crab and artichoke dip, and a gingerbread, lemon curd and blackberry trifle along with a place of Christmas cookies. My aunt and uncle will be bringing veg, potatoes, and their famous homemade bread.
Many pics coming up. But right now, my arm is asleep. I've got to figure out how to disentangle myself from The Love Magnet and carry her up to bed.
Saturday, December 04, 2010
Extra Happy Birthday News
Secondborn is less than 2 inches away from being taller than Firstborn. Firstborn is not pleased.Happy Birthday, Secondborn
Secondborn turned 14 today. In honor of his awesomeness, here are 14 fab things about Secondborn:1. This is my generous kid. He used to spend all of his birthday money buying Christmas presents for his siblings (at least until we gently explained to him that it would be a good thing to spend some of it on himself).
2. Secondborn can get along with ANYONE. That is a rare talent, indeed.
3. We think this kid has all the Maori blood from his ancestors. He has the body type and the darker skin that tans easily. If he doesn't need to shave by the time he goes on his mission at age 19, we'll know he truly has the family Maori blood.
4. Secondborn is going to be a great cook. He loves cooking so much that he took the cooking courses at school long after he filled that requisite. He wants to continue on in high school. He doesn't have a desire to make this his profession, it's just something he loves to do.
5. Secondborn loves basketball even more than he loves cooking. He was on the school team last year and it was fun to cheer him on at his games.
6. He loves reading, particularly Rick Riordan, Brandon Mull, and James Dashner. His number one request for birthdays and Christmas gifts is books. (He takes after his mom.)
7. Secondborn still asks his friends to not swear around him. And they are careful to stop. One of them even apologized yesterday the second a cuss word slipped from his lips.
8. He has a quirky sense of humor. Tonight he was making up words to Christmas carols and laughing himself silly. Singing to the tune of It's beginning to look a lot like Chistmas" he sang "You bacon is starting to look quite crispy....". The lyrics didn't get any better, but we had fun laughing about it.
9. He loves the Utah Jazz and quotes stats about them all season.
10. He is his sister's best friend. He reads to The Love Magnet, carries her across icy parking lotsm, picks her up from school, and is her chief chicken noodle soup maker. The Love Magnet often tells everyone how much she loves her big brother.
11. Secondborn discovered girls this year. Unfortunately, his teachers weren't thrilled about it as it affected his schoolwork. Luckily he brought his grades back up and now keeps checking them against mine to see if he gets to pick the family vacay next summer. In the meantime, he now knows that liking girls fine, just don't talk to them during class.
12. He is a smart kid. He has been working on his 8th grade PACE project all year and scoring well with every segment. We're looking forward to his presentation at the end of the year.
13. Secondborn has turned out to be quite the thespian (and I am so proud!) His drama teacher was heaping on the praise during parent teacher conference. Apparently, Secondborn did a project that was stage ready beyond what the other students performed. Secondborn has never performed in front of us. We do get to see him when his class puts on a series of one-act plays in January. I'm so looking forward to that!
14. This kid has a testimony. He is really looking forward to being ordained a teacher tomorrow.
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