The Compass of Life

Expansion of Gambling... You Gotta Know When To "Hold 'Em"

2011-05-09T11:24:00.010-05:00

The Texas legislature is only in session for 6 months every two years - this session ends on May 30. In that short amount of time we have MUCH to do and watch over as citizens of this wonderful state!

For now, we must keep fighting! And the fight for today is regarding gambling in TX. You can read the whole sordid story here about how Joe Straus has a personal financial interest in TX gambling and how he is hiding the bill from public view. And after you're done reading, make sure to take action!

Who to call: your State Rep
Contact info: click here to find your representatives
Deadline: NOW! They are sneaking this in right now!
What to say: We do not want an expansion of gambling in Texas of any kind whatsoever - no race track derbies, no VLT’s, no racinos, no casinos!

Thank you for making your voice heard!

Taking Toll Taxes TOO Far...

2011-04-19T08:06:00.003-05:00

Yes, In TEXAS everything (including the highway system) is BIGGER, BETTER... but do we really want to add MORE EXPENSIVE to that list? Take time to read this segment below and contact your representatives on the state level to share your thoughts.

Tomorrow, in Austin, TX the House bill HB 1112 by Texas State Rep. Larry Phillips (R - Sherman) is on the General State Calendar in the House for Wednesday, April 20. TURF (Texans Uniting for Reform and Freedom) is urging lawmakers to VOTE NO on HB 1112, which amount to toll taxes in perpetuity.

"This bill makes 'system financing' permissible for Regional Mobility Authorities (or RMAs), which is stealing toll taxes from one corridor and giving it to another corridor (that those same users may not use) as well as to increase the toll on one segment to gain "surplus revenue" to pledge to another and so on, making it virtually impossible to take the tolls off the road."

Under HB 1112, there would no longer be a requirement that toll rates be based on the cost of building the road and retiring the debt nor strictly dedicated to paying the cost of construction and retiring the debt. Also, based on testimony during an exchange between RMA lobbyist Brian Cassidy and Senator Juan Hinojosa in the Senate Transportation Committee March 9, "system financing" indeed means tolls in perpetuity. The Texas Constitution prohibits perpetuities in Art I, Sec. 26. So under "system financing," tolls become a hidden, permanent tax, not a "user fee."

The bill also allows RMAs to borrow money using borrowed money, which are the same multi-leveraging schemes that caused the subprime mortgage crisis and global financial meltdown.

It's like building roads with credit cards," says Hall. "It's dangerous and very risky business, putting the taxpayers on the hook for any bailouts if the traffic doesn't show up. With gas nearing $4 a gallon, toll roads are bleeding traffic. So future bailouts of this multi-leveraged debt is more likely by the day."

HB 1112 also broadens the authority of RMAs to have all the powers of TxDOT, including eminent domain, and Comprehensive Development Agreements (selling off Texas roads to private toll operators) if that authority is granted to the Department. The bill also broadens its authority for toll collection, which has been problematic in every area of the state. HB 1112 allows RMAs to build parking structures and collect "fees" or tolls on parking and parking meters. Phillips argues it's for the Grayson Airport, but the bill doesn't limit it to airport parking.

It would allow the RMAs to raid property tax appraisal increases for its projects, and use toll revenues for "economic development" (which is eminent domain for private gain) and for just about anything it likes. It would also repeal Section 370.317(d), Transportation Code which requires the Department to approve any agreements between a local government and private entity.

It would also let RMAs participate in the State Travel Program. Why would a LOCAL entity to need travel? Perhaps for junkets to "conventions" in Austria as the NTTA did at a cost to taxpayers of $7,000 a ticket? All of this would be done by UN-elected bureaucrats, not elected officials.

"This bill is far from being fiscally responsible much less fiscally conservative," concludes Hall.

Two other organizations besides TURF testified against this bill, Texas Public Interest Research Group and Texans for Accountable Government. Only the RMA lobbyist testified in favor.

Texas TURF is a non-partisan, grassroots, all-volunteer group defending Texans’ concerns with toll road policy, Trans Texas Corridor-style projects like public private partnerships, and eminent domain abuses. TURF promotes non-toll transportation solutions.

Our National Anthem

2011-04-02T23:01:00.003-05:00

I have always loved the simple beauty of The National Anthem of the United States of America. I had the chance to sing it before the Houston Astros played the Boston Red Sox (so appropos) at Minute Maid Park in Houston, Texas this past week. Here is a short video recorded by my wonderful husband!

www.mormon.org

2011-02-08T14:38:00.003-06:00

I recently finished one of the many new opportunities that our church has provided us to share our testimony and faith with the world via the internet. Click here to see my profile! Then, add yours - or if you are not familiar with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - click around and explore!

A Call to Action...

2011-01-28T09:16:00.004-06:00

There is a movement that begun years ago with various academics stating that we should hold another Constitional Convention to change the inherent flaws in our U.S. Constitution. I have recently read that some of our current Senators are beginning to return to this conversation and I want to raise my voice in opposition to this idea. I urge you to educate yourselves, form and opinion and raise your one voice in the collective voice of "We, the people".

I have penned this letter to the Lt. Governor of Texas and I will send another copy to my state Senator and Representative. I invite you to read it and then write your own (or just copy and paste mine) to your state representatives. Please take the time to make sure your voice is heard.

Lt. Governor Dewhurst,

Recently I have read that you have called for a Constitutional Convention to add an amendment to our standing Constitution for balancing the national budget. I applaud and am grateful for your fervor to balance our national budget and forever limit the spending of government. I respectfully question your reasoning behind opening up a full Constitutional Convention in order to amend our U.S. Constitution.

My concerns with opening a full Constitutional Convention are primarily based in two issues. Foremost, a Constitutional Convention will allow the constitution itself to be reviewed and changed. I understand that there are no implicit guidelines that would govern such a convention and that each and every portion of the U.S. Constitution would be at the mercy of those voting delegates at the convention. I am opposed to the current document being opened up to broad, sweeping changes. The founders of this nation provided us with a manner in which to amend our Constitution and I suggest highly that we adhere to that wisdom and guidance that has preserved our democracy through the ages. Thus, I suggest using the recommended and historically successful pattern for amending our Constitution – it is a pattern that has been tried and has remained true to the vision of the United States of America and I do not see any reason to depart from it.

The remaining concern is that the general populous of Americans will like the sound of and the idea of returning through history and opening up a Constitutional Convention without understanding that by doing so the entire document that governs our nation would be at risk. I respectfully question if that is not the reason for suggesting this course of action – solely for a group of politicians to seem to be adhering to the traditions of our country when indeed they would be placing the country at great risk. I believe that the majority of Americans are grateful for our freedoms, we want our country to succeed and we desire the ability to pursue happiness in whatever way we deem correct for ourselves. I believe that those rights are protected by the Constitution of the United States of America. I believe you were chosen to protect the rights and protect the Constitution.

I am in favor of amending the U.S. Constitution to provide a requirement to balance the national budget and to reduce current and future spending. I am in favor of following the high standards and guidelines our Founders set to amend the Constitution. I am strongly opposed to creating a setting that would open the Constitution up for broad changes and thus creating for the first time in our history a setting in which the representatives of the people would allow our Constitution to become vulnerable to the whim of man.

If my understanding of this process is incorrect I would appreciate receiving a better understanding of what is being suggested to amend our Constitution.
Sincerely,

In a letter to G.L.Turberville in 1788 James Madison (Father of the U.S. Constitution) wrote this:

"If a General Convention were to take place for the avowed and sole purpose of revising the Constitution, it would naturally consider itself as having a greater latitude than the Congress appointed to administer and support as well as to amend the system; it would consequently give greater agitation to the public mind; an election into it would be courted by the most violent partisans on both sides; it would probably consist of the most heterogeneous characters; would be the very focus of that flame which has already too much heated men of all parties; would no doubt contain individuals of insidious views, who under the mask of seeking alterations popular in some parts but inadmissible in other parts of the Union might have a dangerous opportunity of sapping the very foundations of the fabric.

"Under all these circumstances it seems scarcely to be presumable that the deliberations of the body could be conducted in harmony, or terminate in the general good. Having witnessed the difficulties and dangers experienced by the first Convention which assembled under every propitious circumstance, I should tremble for the result of a Second, meeting in the present temper of America, and under all the disadvantages I have mentioned."

I don't believe his words hold less truth in our day than they did in his time.

Missing In Action...

2010-12-05T11:36:00.003-06:00

Sorry I have been Missing In Action as of late. We have recently been involved in the First Lego League Robotic Competitions, 5th Grade Science Camp (where I was involved with caring for 9 girls and 3 parents that were either bilingual or solely Spanish speaking), our little man had a birthday and we celebrated a wonderful Thanksgiving with our family here in Texas.

I look forward to being back soon!

Take your stand as ONE VOICE in AMERICA!

2010-10-27T16:33:00.008-05:00

Rush Limbaugh, Barack Obama, Carly Fiorina, Nancy Pelosi, Sarah Palin, Harry Reid - all these people have something in common with YOU! Yes, ALL of them. They have ONE vote. They stand for ONE voice in the collective 'VOICE OF THE PEOPLE'! Yes, their voices are loud and we all know far too much about what they say but they were once a voice that blended with the crowd. Their voices once were hardly heard above the collective voice of America. Years ago they were where you are now - part of the silent majority that could make a difference.

There are so many voices in America that at times we may feel that our one voice, our one vote could never make a difference. If our government is to be ruled by the people then we must at least cast our vote and do our part to be heard. We must do all we can. Integrity requires nothing more nor less.

Today, in Arizona, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals has overturned a requirement that people show valid proof of citizenship to vote. The court felt that the requirement was an "obstacle" to getting citizens out to vote - yet, interestingly, the same court ruled that some form of photo ID was not too stringent a ruling. Could the court have felt that the actual requirement to be a U.S. Citizen must have been too stringent?

To read the article click here.

This is my part to urge EVERYONE who cares about protecting our "unalienable" or God given rights to please make sure you cast your vote. Please contact everyone you know and remind, even urge them to vote. It is of the utmost importance.

JOIN ME in taking your stand as ONE VOICE in the VOICE of the PEOPLE!

Quotable Quotes

2010-10-25T10:44:00.002-05:00

Our little man's voice yelling from the restroom:

"MOM, I SENSE A DISTURBANCE IN THE UNIVERSE!"

Needless to say he wasn't feeling good and didn't make it to church... but what an absolutely adorable way to tell me he wasn't feeling good. (Maybe all my reminders that 'potty talk' is not welcome are finally getting through!)

What I've Been Up To...

2010-10-19T09:49:00.008-05:00

OK! You may recall that a couple of months ago I looked into the mirror and saw the dreaded, proverbial BEFORE picture looking back at me. Thus, I embarked on learning to do my own hairstyle, eyebrows, went to the library and checked out books on reclaiming our outer beauty, etc. I am happy to say that the BEFORE picture is gone and here are some of the AFTER shots - after I remembered that I was worth taking care of too; after I remembered that it is OK to take time to shape your eyebrows; after I remembered to ask my amazing hair stylist to teach me to do it myself; and after I remembered that I can spend some time in front of a mirror without feeling guilty! So here is what happened after I remembered to enjoy who I am...

My wonderful husband gifted me some time with one extremely talented photographer and friend in the Utah area. My friend, Emily, and I had a blast together getting rid of the before image and putting together a basic head shot for either my real estate business cards, a jacket to a possibly published book or a promo shot for getting commercial print or film jobs. So basically, since I have no idea exactly what I am going to be doing with these pictures, we just had FUN!

Here is that sneak peek that my friends have been requesting. More can be found on Emily's photography blog or her websites - here (select her photo blog and scroll down to find yours truly).

Bedazzled Spider

2010-10-12T16:39:00.003-05:00

Happy Halloween! Here is a jeweled spider that each of the children made. We had a great time making them and these little creepy crawlers are now hangin' out in our decorations.

Model Helicopter

2010-10-12T08:13:00.003-05:00

My dear husband and our wonderful children have had more of a chance to spend time together over the last couple of months. One of their new endeavors is making a model helicopter. Our children are loving working with their Dad on this model (basically a 'manly' craft in my mind). On the same table I had glue guns out and was working on my crafts. We have had some tremendously enjoyable evening around the table crafting, laughing and talking.

Our little ones are especially loving the paint and particularly the metallic paints. They are enjoying their time with their father tremendously.

Up, Up and Away...

2010-09-22T11:55:00.005-05:00

Our little crew went to our first ever Hot Air Balloon Festival. We had a lovely picnic dinner sitting in a field (in the shade for my cute husband) and watched Hot Air Balloons soar right over our heads. We could hear the blasts of hot air and often were able to see straight up into the balloon! Our children loved spending time together playing frisbee and enjoying time outdoors together. I enjoyed the music, the beautiful balloons and (of course) the adorable company.

As the sun went down the festival held what is called 'Balloon Glow' and 'Balloon Twinkle'; with all of the balloons firmly anchored to the ground the MC counted down and all pilots lit their fires in their balloons and caused a beautiful glow. They also did what was called a 'Balloon Twinkle' - each pilot lit the fire separately (to music) and caused the balloons to have a twinkle effect. It was beautiful. Riding in a Hot Air Balloon is definitely on my list of things to do!

Politics... (unfortunately) As Usual

2010-09-20T19:03:00.003-05:00

On September 21, 2010 the Defense Authorization Bill will be voted on. Subversively hidden in between the lines is the 'DREAM Act'. The DREAM Act sponsors have long fought to sabotage a clearly worded provision in the 1996 Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act that states:

"Notwithstanding any other provision of law, an alien who is not lawfully present in the United States shall not be eligible on the basis of residence within a State (or a political subdivision) for any postsecondary education benefit unless a citizen or national of the United States is eligible for such a benefit (in no less an amount, duration, and scope) without regard to whether the citizen or national is such a resident."

From what I understand, this means that children of illegal immigrants that have become high school graduates are not allowed specialized treatment OVER children whose parents are national citizens of the United States of America. This law does NOT state that a student cannot apply and work their way through a college career. While living in Mexico we saw many youth who were applying to colleges in the United States of America. Some were accepted and others were not - all of these youth were from Mexico with parents residing in Mexico or with proper working papers in order for employment in the U.S.A. Their acceptance or denial thereof was based on MERIT! What more could honestly be asked?

We need to make sure that all nationalities, religions, races and genders realize that they must earn their privileges to attend post-secondary education. We MUST eradicate the mentality that all children are entitled to funding, etc. that would make education possible. We must return to the mentality that we must work for the betterment of ourselves, our cities, our states and our collective nation. This sense of entitlement that is the basis for the DREAM Act is at the root of many of the ills that plague our nation.

Ice Cold Lemonade!

2010-09-20T09:48:00.002-05:00

Our little ones wanted to have the experience of running a Lemonade Stand this summer. So, I planned a family yard sale (to de-clutter our home) and out little munchkins advertised, marketed and made much more money than I ever did on a Lemonade stand!

The adorable little advertisers drew in people off the street. Our Little Jedi hired (yes, I said hired) two neighbors to run up and down the streets to attract buyers at both cross streets and paid them with a portion of the proceeds or the option to choose an item from the yard sale! When a family stopped at the yard sale our little advertisers would ask those left in the car if they would like Lemonade! We finally had to close the stand because we ran out of cups!

All our children had a great time, enjoyed making money and I was SO impressed with their ingenuity and management skills!

Quotable Quotes

2010-09-14T07:42:00.003-05:00

First was heard the sound of breaking plastic and metal.

My cute husband: "Are you all right, dear?"
Me: "Yes, but I just broke the scale." (Our bathroom weight scale.)
My cute husband: "Um... that is one phrase I never hoped to hear my wife say!"

Unfortunately I stepped on the window of our weight scale - and I guess it isn't quite as sturdy as the places where your feet are supposed to go... who knew?

Politics - What we can do!

2010-09-10T08:03:00.003-05:00

On September 8, 2010 House Republican Leader John Boehner called for immediate bipartisan action on a two-point plan to address the economy and excessive spending. Boehner’s plan calls on Congress to first pass a bill that would scale back government spending to FY 2008 levels – before the TARP and bailouts. Not only would this provide fiscal discipline (imagine that), but it would save an estimated $100 billion of taxpayer money this year alone. The second leg of the plan calls to enact a two-year freeze on all current tax rates. This would thwart the largest tax hike in our nation’s history and give families and small businesses certainty of what to expect next year.

Immediate and decisive action must be taken. Boehner’s “freeze and cut” proposal is a necessary step for Washington to resuscitate the fragile economy. Furthermore, this plan would prevent a lame-duck Congress from writing another bloated spending bill. House Republicans have heard your concerns this summer and will continue to fight for fiscal discipline and relief from an overbearing government.

If you would like to provide feedback on Leader Boehner’s new economic proposal, I encourage you visit his America Speaking Out submission by clicking here.

Inner Beauty Out - Entry #5

2010-09-08T21:49:00.003-05:00

My pedicure is still shining and the 'Form-A-Brow' kit came in the mail and I have been playing with different stencils and I love, love, love the look of the brow powder that came in the kit... but, I want to find the best look for my eyebrow before I start plucking.

My little ones only had a half day of school today so my time to accomplish all my goals for a day was shortened... so, I thought I would simply whiten my teeth today. I purchased Crest's Pro-Whitening Formula. I simply put the strips on my teeth while I was taking time to read my scriptures for the day - 30 minutes of enlightening (spiritually) and whitening (physically)!

Inner Beauty Out - Entry #4

2010-09-04T11:36:00.000-05:00

Today was a bit hectic... but I found some time while grocery shopping to pick up some recommended 'Brilliant Buys' from my beauty guide book.

I bought Pantene Pro-V Restoratives Shampoo and Garnier Fructis Deep Conditioning Triple Oil Conditioner.

I used the products and my hair (in one washing) does feel more luxurious - not too bad for a thirty-six year old mother of four!

Now, I just need to get up the gumption to schedule the haircut and highlights!

Inner Beauty Out - Entry #3

2010-09-03T13:42:00.002-05:00

For my inner beauty growth I woke early this morning and took a half an hour to read my scriptures before my day began. I love reading and reflecting in the morning to begin my day - although I am still waking up I find that it helps me take on the rest of the day with more perspective.

For visible beauty I did a pedicure - yes, a simple pedicure.

These two things made me feel a bit more beautiful today!

Inner Beauty Out - Entry #1 & 2

2010-09-02T10:35:00.006-05:00

The other day I was looking into the mirror (pre make-up) and I realized that I was looking like the proverbial 'BEFORE' picture. I thought to myself, "that just won't do"; then I decided to begin doing something about it each day.

Day One: I went to the library and looked up books on style, fashion, etc. (Being the college graduate and bookworm - not nerd, just bookworm - that I am I am assuming that much of the information I need I can find in a book.) The library did NOT let me down. I checked out, "How Not to Look Old" by Charla Krupp. This book is going to be a wonderful resource while I am trying to bring out my inner beauty.

Day Two: After flipping through the book I decided to do some, small thing each day to feel beautiful both inside and out. Some days may be small and others may be HUGE (like cutting and highlighting my hair) but each day I would like to do something to feel more beautiful. So, my first purchase was this kit:

You may be wondering exactly what this kit is. It is a "Form-A-Brow" Kit. I am fairly Low Maintenance when it comes to appearance and right now I am on a DIY budget for this endeavor. So, I found an option that was highly recommended that would allow me to make flawless brows. BUT, you have to pluck - not wax. So, we will see how that goes. I always sneeze when having my eyebrows plucked or waxed. it is uncanny.

If you want to try out this little kit along with me it can be purchased here. One of my dear friends and I are going to try it out as soon as it comes in and I'll let everyone know how it goes.

Mexico wouldn't be Mexico without...

2010-07-26T21:18:00.002-05:00

A trip to Mexico wouldn't be complete without some type of stomach bug! After being here an entire month (minus a couple of days) the bug hit... our little Ladybug and my wonderful husband! I will be M.I.A. for a little while nursing my sick daughter and feverishly hot husband back to health!

Cristo Rey Statue

2010-07-21T09:56:00.002-05:00

Our family traveled to the state of Guanajuato, Mexico near the city of Leon to view the statue of 'Cristo Rey'. This statue is said to be in the center of Mexico. The people placed a statue of Christ in the center of their country to represent their lives and country centered upon our Savior, Jesus Christ. I though this sentiment was beautiful.

Our family enjoyed trekking up the mountain in our Suburban (my cute husband loved driving on the bumpy roads with mountain curves)!

The cherubs on either side of the statue of Christ each have a specific function; one cherub is removing the crown of thorns and the other cherub is stretching to place upon Christ his crown as our Heavenly King.

Inside the domed building is a lovely sanctuary with an empty funeral pyre - I assume suggesting that Christ has risen. There is a floating bronze crown of thorns suspended over the entire interior of the building. In the exact center of the ceiling is a golden leafed crown to symbolize Christ as our Heavenly King.

Our family enjoyed experiencing this lovely tribute to our Savior.

Pueblos Magicos in Mexico

2010-07-19T07:55:00.003-05:00

Over this past week I took advantage of our children being at Summer Camp and I traveled a bit around Mexico! Friends and I traveled to Pachuca, Real de Montes, San Miguel de Allende, Dolores Hidalgo and Tequisquiapan! We visited friends who had moved as well as historical little towns.

While in Real de Montes we ate pastes - these are delicious, historical pastries filled with meat and potatoes or fruit fillings that were used in the mountainous mining towns in Mexico! SO delicious - one would almost become a miner!

In Dolores Hidalgo my adventurous spirit got the best of me and I tried Camarone (Shrimp) Ice Cream from a street vendor with chile on it! It was absolutely the taste of shrimp! The texture of ice cream and the flavor of chile shrimp do NOT go well together! My stomach paid for that little adventure for about 24 hours! But, it was definitely a memory!

Curso de Verano

2010-07-15T07:46:00.004-05:00

While here in Mexico our children were invited to a Summer Camp with BOMBARDIER, Inc. Our children have had a fabulous time! They have now done more extreme sports than their parents! Each day they have the opportunity to do a HUGE zip line (1/4 Kilometer), Rock Climbing, Rappelling, Mechanical Bull Riding, Horseback Riding, Aero-Bungee Jumping and other absolutely wonderful activities!

Each morning we cover them with sunblock and each evening they have another sun-kissed tan! They are doing great, overcoming fears and having a wonderful time!

Zihuatanejo & Isla Ixtapa

2010-07-13T08:01:00.002-05:00

Our family enjoyed a long weekend in the Mexican fishing town of Zihuatanejo. During our time there we visited Isla Ixtapa and many of the beaches! On Isla Ixtapa, the best beach was Cocohuatalate (I am so not sure I spelled that right.) but it was perfect for our children to play and calm enough that they felt comfortable going into the water without parents!

While on Isla Ixtapa I explored the island and found the "Wild Beach" which everyone on the island had a different name for - thus I am calling it the wild beach... because I had to hike over portions of the island, step lightly under a wasp nest the size of my entire body (I am NOT exaggerating here.) and enter the beach from underneath a small tunnel created by brush. But, once there, it was breathtaking - just myself on a beach with white sand and coral, waves crashing against the rocks and fauna growing to the edge of the sea. It was gorgeous! (I was tempted to bring my children and husband... but due to the ear-piercing screams I know would be heard the moment they saw the wasps nest - did I mention that it was the size of my body? - I deferred.)

We had a wonderful, restful time as a family! The days of resting and relaxing were needed and appreciated!

Queretaro...Ano Bicentenario

2010-07-12T07:34:00.003-05:00

This year marks the 200th anniversary of Mexico's independence. Queretaro is known to be part of 'la cuna de Independencia' or the Mexican cradle of Independence. It is here that their National Anthem was first performed, their governing documents were signed and it was the city where the revolution began with a woman, La Corregidora, locked in a room for conspiracy and treason - yet she still managed to get messages out through the keyhole to warn other revolutionaries in the city. The revolutionaries fled Queretaro and the actual cry of Independence was first heard in the city of Dolores Hidalgo early on September 16, 1810.

No matter where the cry of Independence rings out I believe we should celebrate. It always requires bravery and sacrifice to stand against oppression in whatever form. We are enjoying our time in this great city and we hope you enjoy some pictures and a bit of Mexico's history.

Estamos en Mexico... otra vez!

2010-07-07T22:18:00.003-05:00

Yes, we are in Mexico once again! We are enjoying visiting with our wonderful friends, seeing the sights and tasting the antijotes of Mexico! We have been here only a few days and have packed in some sightseeing, visiting our church congregation, attending the last day of school at the children's old school and having a pool party with our amigos! We can hardly wait for the adventures of this month to unfold!

The Pursuit of Happiness

2010-07-07T09:18:00.007-05:00

This month I have been studying, highlighting and making notations in the margins of two books I would highly recommend to everyone. The books are: "The 5,000 Year Leap: Principles of Freedom 101" and "The Making of America". Both books are distributed by the National Center for Constitutional Studies and can be purchased here.

George Washington said, "The power under the Constitution will always be in the people... and whenever it is executed contrary to their interest, their servants can, and undoubtedly will, be recalled."

To see this quote come to pass we, the people, have to become educated once again as to this magnificent document that is to guide the governing of our country. In my reading I am amazed how far off the mark we are already as a country. It is my hope that you will accept my invitation and take time to learn of how we can, together, make a difference.

If you either live in or will be in the Dallas, Texas area on August 28, 2010 there will be a "Making of America" Seminar with guest speaker, Mr. Andy Biggs. Mr. Biggs is a member of the Arizona State Legislature and a speaker from NCCS. The cost will be $15 per person or $35 for a family. For more information on "Making of America" seminars - this site will allow you to either schedule a speaker or find a seminar in your area.

"Be Strong and of a Good Courage..."

2010-06-15T16:18:00.004-05:00

Our Young Women retreat for church this year is themed after the scripture, "Be Strong and of a Good Courage". Our Stake has chosen the movie "The Wizard of Oz" to serve as an analogy of courage, faith and perseverance while choosing to be compassionate. I have been asked to put together the spiritual program for the retreat... and above is a still I have made for the evening program.

Taking time...

2010-06-14T22:39:00.003-05:00

When one finds oneself immersed in constant serviceable activities (i.e. marriage or motherhood) one may find that it is extremely difficult to make time for oneself... but it is SO important to make time. Making time... that may be the wrong phrase; one may have to take time from ones serviceable endeavors to be (dare I say) selfish and build on one's own talents. It will be as hard as carving ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics into golden tablets... but it will bring you similar peace - to know you are making room in your life for YOU!

The Burden We Are Shifting to our Children

2010-05-29T14:44:00.010-05:00

I am not one to blame Democrats versus Republicans or vice versa. But, I do want to emphatically state that, although I am not an economist or an accountant, I believe that regarding our National Debt (as with all debt) there is a point of no return - when our best efforts to eradicate or pay down our debt will be futile.

The Debt Clock that can be viewed at: www.usdebtclock.org is a stunning example of how much we debt we are burdening future generations with. This illustration will cause you to cringe and pray for this time clock to stop.

Further illustrations of just how fast this administration is spending versus the spending of former administrations can be viewed here.

Recently President Obama stated that he was going to (over a 90 day period) find ways to cut our national budget. To understand his comments please see this link - the illustration is well done and easily understood.

I hope you will take a moment to 'see' what we are doing to our own future.

Mother's Day

2010-05-09T08:13:00.003-05:00

It is Mother's Day.

I have been told to relax in bed. (Darn it!) So, I am reading scriptures, receiving quick kisses and hugs from our children and listening to stories my children scamper in to read to me. There are wonderful smells coming from the kitchen and a fantastic husband orchestrating a calm, relaxing day for me. I have received precious gifts throughout the lives of our children and today will not be an exception. For weeks our children have worked on gifts, songs and cards to share how much they love me. I love Mother's Day. These precious gifts, although they wouldn't be worth much on eBay or Etsy - are worth the world to me.

I never thought I would truly enjoy being a mother as much as I have come to love it. I was a young woman with a single purpose of mind that did not include children until much, much later in life (if at all). I am SO grateful to the Lord that he did not accomodate that desire / wish of mine.

Although we, as women, definitely need to carve out time to ourselves to build our own talents and shape who we would like to become - there is also an equal necessity to take time to ponder how absolutely wonderful it is to be a mother who is adored and loved! It is a precious gift; the kind of whole-hearted, all-encompassing, unfiltered love that children give to their mother! It will come through songs, hugs, kisses, hand-made cards, flowers pulled from your garden or a child coming to just being near you!

It is Mother's Day and I cannot express just how grateful I am for my four beautiful, wonderful children and my dear husband! I am grateful my wonderful husband saw something in me twelve years ago and uncovered a aspect of my spirit that I had not bothered to explore - the ability to nurture. Now, these precious children have taught me of what they see in me - the pure love of a Mother!

I hope I can always live up to the woman they want me to be!

Off to the Publishing House...

2010-05-06T14:11:00.007-05:00

Well, the little labor of love that started out to be stories, quotes, thoughts and advice for my wonderful children has gotten out of hand!

It began to grow on it's own and now, there are about ten chapters (and there is still more knockin' around in my head)! A few dear friends have asked me for these chapters for their birthdays and others have cheered me on almost daily to try to get these pages out for more women to benefit from - so this is for all my dear friends, over the years, who have said, "Why don't you just write a book." Done!

So, to all my wonderful friends - especially one Fabulously Unfussy Friend - "Thank You" for your constant cheerleading. We'll see where it goes from here...
Wish me luck!

From Jellybeans to Chastity...

2010-04-20T13:55:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite friends and I were recently talking about children and discipline. As we were talking I mentioned that it is important that our children learn to listen to the Lord's spirit, their parents and wise leaders at a young age - when we are teaching them about jellybeans and consequences of sharing; rather than later when we are teaching about virginity and the consequences of sharing. I would much rather my children learn to listen before their jellybean lessons turn into chastity lessons.

Happy Birthday to our Rosita Fresita!

2010-04-19T09:29:00.010-05:00

We celebrated a wonderful birthday this past weekend! Our littlest girl turned eight years old! We had a wonderful time and I had so much FUN getting the party ready for her! Really, I had a blast - I made a dessert table, cup cake toppers, invitations, thank you notes and really enjoyed working with our little one to make her birthday memorable and fun! All of the girls had a great time and afterwards our little one expressed her gratitude for a wonderful memory that we created together!

Here are some of the things we whipped up:

Some 'strawberry - licious invitations to entice her guests!

The 'berry sweet cupcakes and cupcake toppers

Scrumptiously Close Up!

A Strawberry Sweet dessert table for munchies.

Lastly, a thank you gift for each of her friends to take home with them!

We had a great time - I even pulled out my grandmother's sewing machine and made the 16" doilies! Honestly, there are very few times in life we get to celebrate how great it is to be eight - so might as well do it with some strawberry-sweet flair!
Hope you can use these ideas to make your next celebration great!

An Open Letter to America

2010-04-06T21:12:00.001-05:00

Dearest America;

I am a young mother, married, raising wonderful children in a one income family. I am, as are many of you, concerned. The simple fact that I have been impressed to write this letter concerns me; I have pondered writing it since I came home – back to our beloved United States of America.

Just under a year ago upon returning home I sat as an official looked over my family’s documentation to return home to the United States of America. I looked at our national flag and tears came to my eyes as a sense of gratitude and pride grew within me. I cried from a deep sense of all that is good in America, truly a land that I love and one that I had previously taken for granted. My emotions overwhelmed me because of all that I had learned during the time I had spent outside of the borders of the United States of America. My time away taught me just how precious, rare and fragile the liberties we enjoy here are.

Over the nearly two years previous to that moment I had lived in a beautiful, vibrant country that welcomed our young family. Yet, although this country was full of wonderful people, beautiful places and a rich culture it was struggling and in the eyes of the world it was failing. I saw families bind together because that was all they had. I saw extreme hardships. Yet, I saw people filled with a gratitude for what they did have. I saw joy and charity amid what the world termed as chaos. I saw life. I saw how tender the heart of all humans are as I met wonderful people from around the world. I visited with many American volunteers while living abroad. I lived outside of my home – but I came to clearly appreciate the strength, beauty and charity of America.

Then, I returned home. I was not here for the political debates. I had not been a daily witness to the bickering, slandering and gossip that we have come to call the presidential race. I did not hear much of the scandals that unfortunately played out. I was not in the United States of America for the swearing in of our current president. What I did know was from CNN acting as my witness to these events. My personal witness was edited by the media. I celebrated that the voice of the American people had spoken and assumed that all must be as the majority of Americans had hoped. I cheered from afar with the millions of people that watched a historic inauguration. Then, I returned home.

Now, over the last ten months I have become more and more concerned with the state of America. In a mere ten months my tears of gratitude and pride have given way to frustration, resignation and fear. I am writing this letter because I no longer know how the average citizen is to be heard. I am writing because I don’t know how else to address those who could make a difference. I do not believe I am alone. I am writing this for all those who may not feel that they have been or will be heard unless someone begins to speak out. I know that I am only one voice – but I also know that I am one voice in a nation that is to be governed by the voice of the people. I am part of that “voice” – so many of us who feel that we are not and cannot be heard make up the majority of that “voice”. Our concern is that if our leaders cannot hear us or are choosing not to listen – then how will the United States of America be governed by the “voice of the people”?

The majority of the voices that collectively make up the “voice of the people” are charitable, loving, decent people who care equally about people of all races, religions and walks but we care far more about our freedom, liberty and families than what political party you belong to. Most of us simply want the America of our hearts and our history books to once again rise up. At this point, America will need the help of each citizen’s hand to rise. She will need our hands, our words, our works and our hearts. I fear that if we choose not to be heard as “the people” than we will be witness to America’s slow demise.

The current debates and actions taken by the government may have been well intended but they have been wrong. They are continuing in a course of action that seemingly continues to drive our nation deeper into financial, social and spiritual debt. Even going so far as to continue forwarding legislation without the consent of the very voters who elected them to public office – the voters they supposedly represent. How can we claim as a nation to be governed by the people when our leaders are carelessly making decisions against the collective voice of the people?

I am one young mother who has faith that the America I hope for can rise from the misguided body that this nation has become. I hope to lend my hand and heart in this cause. I hope my one voice will be heard. I hope my one voice will make a small difference. I hope I can do my part to prepare this great nation for greater things to come.

Sincerely and Gratefully,
A. Ballard, an American

Wonderwoman, Superwoman... a.k.a. Mother

2010-03-28T17:41:00.002-05:00

I have recently realized that Motherhood is nothing less than leaping tall buildings in single bounds and saving your own little universe!

With a wonderful husband off at work - and most of the time he is seriously away (both mentally and physically) - I am the cook, maid, taxi driver, entertainer, referee, consoler, nurse, pillow, teacher, tutor, IT help desk, HR human inter-relationship specialist, dance instructor, singer of lullabies, reader of books and more! All of this constitutes being a mother!

So, wonderwoman had her lasso of truth and superwoman can fly - but, could either of them top the tremendous capacity of a mother? I think not!

When did you realize your greatness as a mother? How did it affect you and your children? I'd love to know...

An evening with Govenor Mitt Romney

2010-03-19T09:51:00.005-05:00

Governor Mitt Romney was in Texas last evening on his book tour for "No Apology". My cute husband stayed home and cared for our little ones while I zipped off during rush hour (which is such an ironic name as one cannot 'rush' anywhere) to get to the event.

The event was very well attended, extremely well received and I was impressed with the broad spectrum of people attending. I did notice with concern that my age demographic was very poorly represented - but, that could very well be that many of my peers are rushing home to families and home responsibilities after a full work day.

I was grateful to attend and be able to speak with Governor Romney for a brief, very brief moment. I believe he is a tremendous individual who has a vision for the future of America and I believe that his presence on the national stage can serve to remind us of the important virtues our country was founded upon.

Boys will be Boys...

2010-03-09T16:40:00.002-06:00

As if cutting off his toe once - drilling through that same toe's nail again to release blood pressure after a second injury and ending up in the ER for excessive vomitting (after receiving eight immunizations from a nurse who was not paying attention) was NOT enough... my dear son decided to see what a full kernel of corn would do if he stuck it into his ear canal.

Well, one day, three doctors visits and surgery later - his ear canal is empty and he knows that 'the only thing that is supposed to go in my ears is SOUND!'

My husband and I only hope he has learned that lesson through all of this!

Mile Mark...One Year Later

2010-03-01T09:41:00.002-06:00

We have been home from Mexico for 10 months now and for 6 of those months I did not have access to a pool. My dear husband surprised me by purchasing a gym membership for me to a gym with an indoor pool! So, today - almost a year after I began swimming a mile a morning... I have hit the 'Mile Mark' again in swimming and I hope to continue from here!

Another Snow Day...

2010-02-11T13:37:00.003-06:00

We woke up this morning to a winterland, white world! To many of you - this is a daily reality; but living in the South means that a winterland, white world is a little miracle!

Unfortunately, our children still had school and we are looking forward to picking them up A.S.A.P. so that we can see if the tops to our plastic storage bins will make good sleds. My cute husband came home for lunch and decided that he would rather work from home today! Yeah! So... now we are just enjoying the snow and waiting for our children to come home.

I don't know exactly what it is... but freshly fallen snow brings out the giddiness in me! I love it!

Home Teaching - A 6 year old's Perspective

2010-02-07T21:39:00.002-06:00

This week my cute husband took our Lil' Jedi out with him to do Home Teaching. (This is a program within our church wherein each family has two members of the congregation assigned to visit them monthly to share a gospel message and assess their needs.) Well, today the young man my husband Home Teaches with was not available - so our Lil' Jedi felt privileged to go with his Dad to visit these families.

Upon returning home I was fixing our Lil' Jedi his dinner and we were talking:

Me: "How was Home Teaching with your Dad?"
Lil' Jedi: "Good." (while munching on corn on the cob)
Me: "Did you enjoy the visits?"
Lil' Jedi: "MmmmHmmm." (nodding)
Me: "Well, how was everyone."
Lil' Jedi: "Ok - They're not dead yet Mom."

So, I suppose that in the view of a 6 year old - if you are breathing you are A-OK!

Sunday Morning

2010-01-31T22:28:00.004-06:00

Fresh bread... the sounds of baking in the kitchen, the smell of fresh bread cooking, the taste of melted butter on warm, wheat bread all equals a feeling of warmth, love and home. The wonderful smell of fresh bread and the sounds of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir filled our Sunday morning.

This morning our little 'Fresita' and I mixed, kneaded and rolled our way to these five butter-topped loaves of bread. Before we left for church one entire loaf was gone - and it was GOOD!

We enjoyed gifting the other loaves to women in our church congregation. We included the scripture from Luke, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God." (Luke 4:4) My Visiting Teaching companion and I hadn't had a chance to enjoy our visits in January so we gave this bread and scripture with the promise that this month we would give the bread and next month we would bring the "word" in our message. They each loved the bread and we look forward to visiting them in February!

Backstroke, Butterfly and Yoga!

2010-01-15T10:28:00.004-06:00

Since moving back the the great U.S.A. I have been scouting our area for an indoor pool to continue my swimming regimen! Between moving in, getting kids settled for school and then summer I hadn't been diligent about my search! Then, for Christmas, my cute husband found a '24 hour fitness' in the area with a POOL inside! Year round! I am SO excited!

This week I started off with a mile and three quarters (for the week) and had a BLAST! I also tried Yoga for the first time ever... I have to say that I have always thought that Yoga was a bit more restful or natural than I would expect a 'real' workout to be. Well, after years of thinking Yoga was less of a workout I have to admit "I was WRONG!"!

When I entered the room and saw people from their mid 20s all the way to mid 70s I thought, "Really, how hard can this be?" and I stationed myself next to a little, well manicured grandmother. I started up a chat with those around me, sharing that it was my first time doing Yoga. Everyone was friendly and completely relaxed. (Minus the businessman who came to yoga in Dockers, a button down shirt and business shoes... but, to each his own). So, seriously, looking around I saw grandmas, businessmen (in their dockers) and also women in 'yoga' looking gear. So, again, how hard could this be?

The instructor bounces into the room and up to the podium. I decided it may be wise to just let her know that this is my first Yoga class. She expresses TONS of enthusiasm for my first class and promises me that she will tell me where to put my arms, legs, hands and feet. That is good, considering I serioulsy have NO IDEA what I am doing.

She instructs me to grab a mat from the closet - and I do... choosing the one that looks least used and doesn't have odd stains on it... At this point I am wondering what stains are doing on a Yoga mat - I mean, do you even break a sweat?

I lay the mat out just in front of the adorable, well-manicured grandmother and start stretching (just like everyone else). I then begin to hear lovely, calming ocean surf with music and I think "Yeah, this will be relaxing without taxing my muscles." (Little did I know...)

The first series of movements we do are announced as the "Sun Salutation" - and I don't know about you... but I don't usually give salutations with my bottom straight in the air with both hands and feet on the floor (hip width apart, mind you). But, from there the instructor had us do body folds (leaning over); monkeys (leaning over with a flat back) and planks - OK, right about NOW, during the planks (which are push ups that you hold in position for a period of time) I thought, "Am I actually feeling perspiration?"

Well, this series of movements were repeated who knows how many times... and each time I got to the plank my muscles in my arms would just begin to BURN. It wasn't just perspiration! No, it was all out BURN - and TO TOP IT OFF, the well-manicured Grandmother was not breaking a sweat! So, I was NOT about to let that happen! So, I smiled and kept on truckin'!

About 20 minutes into the class the instructor said, "OK, that was a nice warm-up." I thought, "Oh my dear... are you serious?" I could already feel a slow burn in my upper arms.

Well, then we get into the 'real' moves of Yoga and just let me say... that there seriously are muscles that I had NO idea I had or what functions they do! AND when you are focusing on some muscles SO much - the other muscles in your body don't do much (like hold your stomach in)! So, about this point I am thinking - "Why, in heaven's name are there MIRRORS on three sides of this room?" And then I see Grandma behind me smiling and relaxed... and my determination hardens.

Well, to say the least, I perspired, my muscles burned, I learned about muscles that I never knew about - BUT, by the end I felt like I had just been treated to an hour massage. I was that relaxed and rejuvinated - Seriously! I was amazed... at the end of the session everyone got up and started rolling their mats, etc. and I was still laying on the floor! I think Grandma was in her car by the time I moved.

So, overall - I am a new fan of Yoga! I felt great after class - and then, about 9pm that night I began to feel the muscles that I had used... but in a good way!
So, Yoga is now being added to my weekly regimen! Just picture me sitting on a mat with my hands on my bended knees, humming to myself... Yeah, Right!

OH, and IF you try this - remember to wear baggier clothes... until you are not worried about what muscles relax when the other ones are being worked on!

A little FYI from our youngest!

2010-01-11T13:00:00.005-06:00

This was a recent conversation I had with our son - take note that this conversation lasted well over an hour with all the dramatics possible out of a 6 year old! I will shorten the experience to spare you...

Our little man: "Mom, why couldn't you name me Luke?"
Mom (not quite paying attention yet): "Mommy and Daddy picked your name because it was the name of some great men and it worked with your middle name which is after Daddy's best friend."
Little man (while stomping his foot): "I don't like it - I want to change my name to Luke!"
Mom: "We thought about Luke but it didn't seem to fit at the time."
Little man (complete incredulity): "YOU THOUGHT ABOUT LUKE BUT DIDN'T NAME ME LUKE?"
Mom: "Yes."
Little man: "How can we change it. I can't go on another day... I want to be Luke!"
Mom: "What if I call you my little Jedi? I can call you that on the blog."
Little man: "You mean like a nickname?"
Mom: "Exactly!"
Little man (thinking): "What about...."
Mom: "Yes..."
Little man: "What about you call me Captain Luke the Jedi?"
Mom: "That is a mouthful."
Little man: "You can call me Captain Luke for short."
Mom: "Oh, that is LOTS better."

Thus, to all those who may be interested in our little family galaxy that we record on this blog... our "Little Man" will from now on be called "Captain Luke" or "Lil' Jedi" per his solemn request!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-07T08:31:00.002-06:00

2010 has been with us for an entire ten days and I am now sitting down and commemorating it! We have welcomed in the New Year in our home with fevers, sinusitis, bronchitis and ear infections! Welcome to the New Year!

Today (the first day that ALL of my children would be able to return to school) school was CANCELLED! So, we are going to 'play school'. My cute husband is flying back into town today and my only hope is that the ice on the runways will NOT keep him from coming home!

Our Christmas Projects...

2009-12-30T09:59:00.004-06:00

Twas the week before Christmas and all through the house our little bunch was busier than the busiest mouse...

We've laid tile floors, re-set toilets and built these two entertainment centers on either side of the fireplace over the last week and a half! My cute husband has been home for two weeks straight and we are enjoying having him here! In between all of our constructing and de-constructing we have had time to spend with our wonderful children and we have enjoyed a memorable Christmas season as well.

Here are the pictures of the entertainment centers we built and a table that we bought for our anniversary / Christmas. (Note: We did NOT build this one!)

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-30T09:51:00.003-06:00

Merry Christmas from our family to yours! We cherish you in our memories, thoughts and prayers!

Christmas Wishes...

2009-12-18T10:36:00.004-06:00

I am so very grateful for our four wonderful children. This season, as I was going about getting prepared for Christmas and presents, I found the children's wish list. Among other things one child wrote, "A red jacket for my mother like the one she lost - size Medium in womens" and another child wrote, "A nativity for my mother - she likes them".

I thought I was a great child... but I never remember putting gifts for my wonderful parents on my Christmas wish list! This little discovery brought tears to my eyes and a gratitude to my heart for the sweet kindnesses we all share at Christmas.

So, today I am grateful for tremendous children who are learning that it is as important to give and realize the needs of others are as important or more important than our own!

Another Addition to the Family...

2009-11-20T11:07:00.007-06:00

Our family felt the need to balance a bit more the boy to girl ratio - so, on Halloween at the door of Nana & Papa Ballard - our little man received a special little Halloween 'treat' whom he immediately named, "Vader".

Our little man is loving having such a wonderful friend around the house! On the other hand, I am asking myself if all the fuss is worth it? Seriously, people kept telling me it would be like having another child; I found that hard to believe. Yet, now, I find myself in complete agreement - although, I might add... I believe children are easier - at least you change diapers instead of finding little 'presents' around the house! Ugh! Each day I am ready to give this puppy away... but then I see the look in our son's eyes when he runs in the door from school.

If I can hang in there... I think they'll be great friends!

A prayer for the President

2009-11-19T13:01:00.004-06:00

My family does pray for the First Family, their safety and the hope that they will have the heart to listen to the collective voice of the American people and the courage to fight for that voice.

Then, I received this email - I thought my friends in the blogosphere might enjoy it as well.

We were in slow-moving traffic the other day and the car in front of us had an Obama bumper sticker on it. It read: "Pray for Obama. Psalms 109:8".

My husband's Bible was lying on the dash board. He got it, opened it up to the scripture and read it. He started laughing. Then he read it to me... I couldn't believe what it said. I had a good laugh, too.

"Let his days be few; and let another take his office." Psalms 109:8 (KJV)

My admiration...

2009-11-17T21:50:00.003-06:00

As I sit here exhausted, tired and simply grateful that our little family has lived another day without my cute husband around - I am finding myself in absolute awe of single mothers! I barely made it through today and I know that I only have to do this for a week or two at a time rather than an indefinite period.

To all of my single friends who are raising children - I cannot tell you how much strength you inherently have. Many of you look toward life with a brave face and solid spirit. You surely have the help of heaven as you raise your little ones and I might even suggest that you may have more help than parents in traditional, two-parent homes - for our Father in Heaven knows how much you truly do need that help!

To my single friends - I think of you so often, cry for you at times and pray for you always. What tremendous strengths you have and what a precious protection you must have from heaven. You inspire me to be stronger, do more and offer my children that well-rounded love that you give daily - the type of love that has the sweetness of a mother and the strength of a father.

You are amazing and, especially tonight, - you have my admiration.

Lil' Gypsy

2009-11-13T13:20:00.004-06:00

We have been married eleven years and in those years we have moved 12 times! Yes, you read that right... can it even be possible, yes! Those moves have included apartments, homes, haciendas and hotels! They have taken place in only two states and two countries!

Through all of this I have decided that I am addicted to houses and change! I love finding houses and making them great. It is just fun - it makes me smile and it has allowed me to work on major projects while being a stay at home mother! I just like the fact that I have been able to stay sane (thus far) while raising these four little cuties! Change - is so fun - I love meeting new people and making new friends!

So, this past 6 months my dear husband has begun introducing me to his friends and co-workers as his 'lil' gypsy. Before his new nickname for me I didn't really think much about how much we move... I love change. I love adventure. But, I wasn't sure about the nickname. But, I have decided that I don't really mind too much - if a gypsy loves adventure, meeting new friends and faces, moving around and trying as much as life has to offer as possible - then, I am a "gypsy"!

What this lil' gypsy does struggle with is being left behind while her cute husband travels from Montreal to Mexico - to San Diego and Walla Walla, Washington (ok, he didn't go to Walla Walla - but you can't talk about Washington without mentioning that funny little town). It is hard being the one left behind to single handedly manage or rather love four little children and a new puppy all while remodeling a home! I think I will add resilient to my lil' gypsy attributes list.

These last 5 months while we have been back in Texas I have had a husband for about half the time! I am living the single mother lifestyle - all while attempting to unpack from yet another move! I believe I have the pack / unpack part of life down to a science! I have personally worn brand new boxes out - I think the average life span of a box is between 6 and 8 moves.

We or rather, I, have begun looking at houses again... this one has been great for the past 9 months... but, once the renovations are done I am ready to move on either that or maybe, just maybe, I could stay here long enough to decorate!

Project of the Day...

2009-11-13T09:58:00.007-06:00

Since moving back to Texas we have been doing SO many projects - from tiling, stripping wallpaper, laying wood floor, etc. - but none of those are completely done - so, I needed to do a quick project from start to finish. So, I decided to convert the lower portion of a bunk bed into "a galaxy far, far away". This project was quick and easy - it can be done with comic strip characters, 'Spiderman' fabric, or fabric for 'Hot Wheels' cars to play on!

I bought 15/32" plywood ($17.95) and 2.5 yards of fabric ($10.82 on sale) - Then layered an old sheet under the print fabric (to insure there will be no splinters in our galaxy) and used a staple gun to put it all together!

Our little man loves, loves, loves all things Star Wars. Thus I decided he needed a full play space for his little Jedi, the Millenium Falcon and various other ships that I cannot name.

The finished product with all the colors and planets was a bit busy for me... but our little man loves it!

After the Weekend Getaway...

2009-10-06T11:00:00.003-05:00

Yes, we are alive - my cute husband and I loved, loved, loved our time at the beach -whether riding horses on the sand (and in the surf) or jet skiing with dolpin pods or just eating out together, alone, without spilled drinks, flying food or requests for more ranch dressing! It was wonderful!

Upon our return home I have learned how to lay engineered wood flooring and with the help of a professional was able to lay about 500 sq. ft. of wood floor in this house! It looks great!

Now, I am preparing to travel this coming weekend to Mexico - where we were headed a couple of weeks ago anyway... but, we hope - this time - that I make it!

A Weekend Get Away...

2009-09-14T20:52:00.004-05:00

Every one needs some time to remember, rejuvinate and relax. This weekend my cute husband and I have been able to take some time to do just that - we were supposed to travel into Mexico to close our storage unit there - but due to some red-tape at the U.S. / Mexico border we were unable to cross.

So instead we have found ourselves rejuvinating and relaxing at South Padre Island, TX. So far, this weekend we have ridden a jet-ski over the open ocean and through pods of dolphins; gone horseback riding on the beach; watched the sun dip below the ocean's horizon and enjoyed spending time together and refocusing both our marriage and our focus on our family.

During this time my wonderful mother has lovingly cared for all of our children! We have surprised family - dropping in and sleeping at their home in San Antonio - and our family has been so gracious and loving in each case! We are so very grateful for such wonderful family members - on all sides - and for the time they devote to our little family.

Target Slumber Party Promo

2009-09-05T09:57:00.002-05:00

Our girls were asked to be the little models for a 'Slumber Party Promotion' at the portrait studios at Target. We scheduled a little photo session for them and these are the products that will be advertised for Target (along with some other pictures)!

The girls had a blast being models for a night... and the pictures came out adorable - if I do say so myself! Watch out Linda Evangelista - there are some more red heads in town!

Picture Pages!

2009-09-03T20:57:00.003-05:00

Our cute little family stopped into a Target Portrait Studio to get the kid's pictures taken. Here is a sneak peek at our cuties...

First Day of School!

2009-08-24T09:23:00.002-05:00

It is official! All of our children have begun school this morning. We walked them into their classrooms and they were ready to begin their day - our little man began Kindergarten with a wave and the blow of a kiss. The girls all marched into their rooms, sat down and began listening to the teachers speak completely in Spanish! We are so grateful to have the children in a bilingual school so that we can maintain the Spanish language in our lives!

I thought I would feel a sense of freedom, a bit of elation or at least enjoy the silence... but, after dropping our children off at school and my husband off at the airport it seems that the feelings I thought I would have are not here at all. I miss the children and although the house is quiet - my thoughts are turned to them and what they are doing and if they are enjoying their classes. I can't wait to pick them up!

Happy Birthday to our Little Ladybug!

2009-08-24T09:10:00.003-05:00

She is nine! Our little 'L' is not so little any longer! This year for her birthday celebration she, Daddy and I went out to a special dinner and then shopped until the stores were closing around us! We had a great time with our daughter... we laughed and ate too much at the restuarant - 'L' benefitted because I didn't have room for my cheesecake dessert! Then we had a great time shopping.

We had given 'L' a budget and told her of our plans for a date; she coyly asked if she could get "anything" with her money. We unsuspectingly replied, "Yes". After dinner when we asked what store she wanted to go to - "PetSmart" was the answer... UH OH! Luckily all the hamsters had nasty, little tempers that day and the guinea pig was too hairy! Phew... next time we will make sure to give a couple tiny limitations to our birthday budgets!

We love our beautful daughter and we are SO glad that she has blessed our family these last nine years with her wonderful smile, willingness to help, sense of 'style' and her friendship!

End of Summer

2009-08-24T09:02:00.003-05:00

For the final week of summer we had a cousins sleepover, visited museums, went bowling and to lunch and celebrated our little "L's" ninth birthday! We have had a wonderful summer - returning from Mexico, traveling to New England, going on a whale watch - and seeing whales jump out of the water, visiting water parks and the library (every week) and spending time together!

Here are a few shots of our fun in the museum!

Living in the 'Project'...

2009-08-09T16:34:00.004-05:00

When we wake up in the mornings we are living in our little, family project! Over the last few weeks we have pulled up flooring, painted a bed for our little man, stripped wallpaper and my cute husband and I are in negotiations for a half wall in the entry area and a reading nook off the girl's room. (Basically building a new wall in the entry and knocking a hole and building a header in an area of dead space off the girl's room!)

We are busy, busy... but with only 2 more weeks of summer we are going to focus a bit more on summer fun and a bit less on renovation!

Here are some pics of the fun we have had so far this summer!

For all those who think you can't...

2009-07-16T11:34:00.005-05:00

Often people tell me that it is amazing what our little work crew can do to a home - and that they could 'never do that'. But, here are some quick pics of our current painting, demolition and redesign of a fireplace surround & pulling up linoleum to replace with tile projects.

It is easy enough that our children are doing most of the demolition... it really is THAT easy! (But, it must be done with safety in mind.) The kids love it as well - what child wouldn't love to tear a house apart?

Note to my cute husband: I included pics of all the kids helping and one of yours truly! (Since you haven't seen us in over 5 weeks!)

Cute story: While we were on vacation I awoke to some squabbling on Saturday morning and went out to the television area only to find my kids trying to defend why an HGTV television show was more interesting than Saturday morning cartoons! (We watched one HGTV show and then all the cousins enjoyed cartoons together.)

Quotable Quotes

2009-07-14T09:34:00.005-05:00

"Goodbye to all you dead guys laying in the dirt."
- Our little Ladybug shouted out while leaving 'Sleepy Hollow Cemetery' in Concord, MA - where Louisa May Alcott, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne & Henry David Thoreau are all buried.

Sights, Sounds and Flavors of New England

2009-07-13T08:14:00.004-05:00

While we were have been here, in New England, we have had a wonderful time! We have gone to the beaches in Newport, Rhode Island - Airshows - the New England Aquarium - Old North Bridge - Boston Common & Public Gardens - the site of The Liberty Tree - Tall Ships at Sail Boston 2009 - New Hampshire and more! We have had Canoli's from 'Mike's Pastries' in North End - Steamers & Lobster Dinner at home and TONS of Ice Cream! It has been a wonderful trip - we have enjoyed every day here!

4th of July - New England Style

2009-07-05T14:07:00.004-05:00

I love New England - the sights, the sounds and the parade! Sitting on the curb with my feet dangling into the street I loved sharing my childhood memories with my children. This year's celebration has been very special!

Happy 4th of July!

A place I call 'Home'

2009-07-05T11:30:00.010-05:00

I am home! The sights, sounds, smells - the wind in the trees and the breeze in my hair while driving these tree-lined, winding New England roads are flooding my mind with memories of growing up - wonderful fun, dear friends and young romance. The roads are now lined - not only with trees, ponds, fields and rock walls - but also with cherished memories of friends and summers before I truly understood responsibility and the weight it can carry.

Although my home is wherever my family is - I have my own place here - in New England. Here is the place where I began and my personal memories linger. Climbing up the ranger station to look over the lights of my town; Hiking trails throughout the woods here or Franconia Notch; Dancing in the Pavilion on Rowe's Wharf; Watching sunsets or climbing rope courses with friends in Boy Scout Camps; Driving roads; High School Musicals; High School Proms and all the dreams of life, love and all that lay beyond this sleepy, little, New England town.

Since leaving New England I have received educational degrees, traveled and lived abroad, married, had four children, grown and matured (a little) - but returning here it is easy to remember my carefree life.

It has been a great holiday to share with my children - to share places where their mother walked, grew, dreamed, pondered and learned of life, love and service.

I love this place, the thoughts of friends and the tangible memories that fill this New England air. It is as much a part of me as I am a part of my children! This is where I was a child and began to become the woman I am! I am home and I am enjoying every memory in it!

Quotable Quotes

2009-06-30T23:03:00.005-05:00

Little L: "Grammie, do we like Yankees?"
Grammie: "No, here in Boston we are in Red Sox country. We don't like the Yankees."
Little L: "Yeah, Yankees Suck!"
(quoting a tee-shirt she had just walked past)
Grammie: "Ummm... we don't use that word."
Little L: "Oh yea,... Grammie, what are Yankees?"

Letterboxing in a Library

2009-06-30T23:00:00.002-05:00

One of our first days in the Boston area was damp and rainy - so we stayed inside doing our favorite version of treasure hunting - letterboxing. Our Grammie, our cousins and our family followed clues, filled out a crossword puzzle and solved codes to find this letterbox! We had a great time and enjoyed being detectives!

Funnin' with the Cousins

2009-06-30T21:37:00.001-05:00

A couple of weeks ago my cute husband was out of town on business and we had our cousins over to play - there was ballet dancing, spy games, movie nights, make your own pizzas (for dinner), and we had a great time!

For the Men in my life...

2009-06-16T23:14:00.004-05:00

I have been blessed to be surrounded by many men of this caliber. I am grateful for each of their influence in my life - whether it be my father, brothers, father-in-law, friends or ecclesiastical leaders I have been greatly blessed to have had stellar examples of true men throughout my life.

To each of you, I would like to say 'Thank You' with all the feeling of my heart. You have shaped much of my perception of men and I now have the opportunity to pass on to my son the knowledge that you have blessed me with.

Quotable Quotes

2009-06-14T08:47:00.002-05:00

"Mom, its like an 'I Spy' picture. If I clean it up I won't be able to play."- Our little man trying to reason his way out of cleaning his bedroom floor.

The Zoo

2009-06-09T07:58:00.003-05:00

Our family enjoyed going to the Zoo together! We had a great time seeing all of the animals and we were able to get really close to the elephants! It was our little man's first memories of a zoo (in America) and he was amazed by all of the animals - as you can see on his face in some of the pictures. All of the children enjoyed watching the animals interact. We had a great time making memories.

The family who works together...

2009-06-08T11:53:00.003-05:00

From Mexico we came home to our next 'Fix this House' project! Everybody is pitching in to make this house a family custom job! From the walls to floor we are changing it all! Our little cowboy chose navy blue and beige and the girls chose a green paint aptly named 'Guacamole'! The other pics are of us ripping the tile off of the fireplace surround and floor - I didn't like the color...

We have the cutest little crew!

Adios Mexico!

2009-06-08T11:38:00.002-05:00

On April 27, 2009 I received a telephone call from my husband asking if I could have the house packed and prepared to move our family back to the U.S.A. within 48 hours! On April 30th we were at the airport preparing to return home to America. This was the scene at the airport as we boarded the plane! After a safe arrival back in the U.S.A. and a medical clearance we are now settling back into the luxurious life we know in America! The country and people of Mexico will always hold a special place in our hearts!

A Mother's Day Note

2009-05-10T14:54:00.002-05:00

This Mother's Day I want to take a moment to thank mothers - all mothers - who, from dawn until dusk (and through the night), teach, train, discipline and most of all love the children of this nation.

The greatest accomplishments we will realize will be found within the walls of our own homes as we raise children now who will make a difference in the years to come!

To my Beloved Sisters in Mexico

2009-05-03T11:18:00.003-05:00

Mis Hermanas Amadas –

Les quiero muchísimo – más que palabras decir. Durante mi primer meses en México sentí un gran bienvenida por mi familia de ustedes y este sentimiento crecí mas sobre casi dos años! Agradezco por esta experiencia que les conoce ustedes, mis hermanas Mexicanas, en este evangelio de nuestro Padre Celestial y nuestro Salvador. Agradezco por tu apoyo, amor y paciencia conmigo. Agradezco por tu apoyo de mi familia y especial mis niños! En realidad, tengo una familia Mexicana en este barrio y mi corazón rompe poquito cuando fue a Estados Unidos; fuimos a Estados Unidos pero un parte de mi alma esta aquí permanente – porque aquí aprende más acerca la verdadera de el apoyo de nuestro Padre Celestial y nuestro Salvador. Aprende les ayude por medio de ustedes – cuando recibe este llamamiento yo llore porque solo piense acerca los obstáculos. Ahora en el fin de este llamamiento yo llore otra vez porque yo se están mis amigas, mis hermanas, y mis ángeles. Gracias para ser valientes, para ser parte de mi vida y para ser parte de mi testimonio de hermandad en este evangelio global.

Recibimos mucha consolación en esta escritura: “Tus amigos te sostienen, y te saludarán de nuevo con corazones fervientes y manos amistosas.” (D&C 121:9) Espero para este día con ustedes. Les quiero muchísimo!

Quiero compartir mi testimonio – porque es un regalo más precioso. Yo sé nuestro Padre Celestial vive. Yo se que nuestro Salvador, Jesucristo, vive. Nos aman completamente y por eternidad. Esta iglesia y esta obra es el obra de Dios y nosotros estamos sus soldados en este gran plan. Estamos hermanas y hermanos literalmente en una gran familia – esta familia incluya todas personas, culturas, y naciones. Agradezco por esta experiencia, en México, porque aumentan mi testimonio acerca la familia de Dios. Yo se que tenemos una profeta sobre la tierra – Presidente Thomas S. Monson. Agradezco para este conocimiento. Yo se que el profeta Joseph Smith restará este evangelio y transducción el Libro de Mormon. Yo se que las escrituras tienen las palabras de Dios y el dirección para nuestras vidas. Esta iglesia es verdadera – que gran oportunidad! Hermanas, mientras trabajan aquí, en México – voy a trabajar en la misma obra en Estados Unidos. Pues – adelante, mis hermanas amadas, con fe!

Con todo mi respecto y amor.
Tú hermana en el evangelio – para siempre,
Hermana Andrea Ballard

"Born in the U.S.A."

2009-04-28T06:16:00.002-05:00

We are on our way home! Yesterday at 9a.m. my cute husband called and asked if I could pack the family within 48 hours... the answer, of course, was "No, are you crazy?" - so, I have a little more time than that. But, the long and short of it is that I am organizing giving our precious feline friend, Suess, away; donating school uniforms; calling friends for items they want to keep and packing all at once! We'll be coming home with 12 suitcases...

Our little family lasted through drug search and seizure raids in our own neighborhood run by the Mexican military; rumors of drug wars; evidence of drug wars - and now a microscopic germ is sending us packing - literally! I have shed tears upon tears - due to this situation we cannot even physically say goodbye to these beautiful, wonderful people we have grown to love!

My only hope is to hitch a flight back with my cute husband's business trips when the epidemic clears and finally say 'adios y les queremos muchisimo'!

The Swine Flu Virus

2009-04-27T08:05:00.006-05:00

Our N95 masks were securely in place, full bottles of hand sanitizer in our pockets and an agreement not to touch any hand rails or handles was spoken of before my cute husband and I stepped foot on Mexican soil again yesterday. The scene that greeted us in the Mexico City airport was one that could have easily been from an 'end of days' movie - thousands of people were wearing masks - military personnel handing out masks to everyone who came through the gates while they juggled the automatic weapons in another hand; announcements were running throughout the airport asking all people to wear their masks and immediately report to an on-site health clinic if they had any symptoms. The warning was obvious and serious - we wound through the airport with little to no contact with people and met our driver to take us home.

We have made it home safely and have just been notified that school and public gatherings (church, sports events, etc.) have all been suspended until May 6, 2009. We are sequestering ourselves in our home until we know more of what is occurring with this virus!

These are some of the sights we saw - I did not have my own camera (although I wish I did). These pictures are from the AP.

Quotable Quotes

2009-04-21T14:43:00.002-05:00

"Why does Jesus have long hair and why is he wearing a dress?" - our little 'Fresita' asked Sunday while coloring in her Bible coloring book.

Spares & Strikes

2009-04-20T20:00:00.004-05:00

Spares & Strikes - you better believe it! (Although I should disclose that the rails were in the upright position...) Our kids were bowling up a storm and enjoying spending time with another American family here in Mexico! We had a great time together and lots of fun!

This Easter Sunday...

2009-04-12T08:39:00.004-05:00

It is my prayer that we remember our Savior, renew our commitment to live as He would have us live and resolve to live in that manner.

With a heart full of gratitude for the gifts of our Savior we wish all a blessed and happy Easter Sunday.

Una Granja Mexicana - Mexican Farm

2009-04-11T18:02:00.002-05:00

We had a hee-haw time one afternoon at a farm here in Mexico! The children played with ducks, chickens, bunnies, cows, goats, sheep, horses, etc. We had to leave just before the children had a chance to milk a cow! Aw shucks!

We had a farm-tabulous time!

General Conference Weekend

2009-04-11T17:45:00.007-05:00

Our little bunch enjoyed our last General Conference Weekend in Mexico. While we have been here among the Mexican saints we have learned, grown and come to love these people. We will miss all of the wonderful members of the church here in Mexico.

During conference weekend the stake centers are packed to capacity and tents are brought in to cover the parking lots to accomodate all of the members that want to listen to a prophet's voice. It is a wonderful sight to see and a great blessing to have the opportunity to be a part of this community of saints!

We 'gringos' meet in the High Council room to hear Conference in English. Our children will probably miss their comfortable chairs and a table to write on during the October conference of 2009.

Picnic with my Lil' Man!

2009-04-11T17:22:00.004-05:00

While his sisters were off playing at friend's houses - my lil' man and I began Spring Break with a picnic. We had a great time together and we brought TONS of bread for the ducks! These ducks were daring... was the days old, crusty bread enought for them? NO! They were after the Subway sandwiches - there was absolutely no duck etiquette code being observed. This was not a flock of geese for the faint of heart - nor was it the place for flip-flops!

Between eating our lunch and fending off the hordes of attaking ducks and geese - I was able to get in these few pictures!

Show & Tell - Seuss, the Cat!

2009-04-11T17:12:00.004-05:00

Our little 'Fresita' (Strawberry) took Seuss, our Mexican Persian Cat, to Show & Tell at school! All of the children loved Suess and although he was a bit nervous he did great!

We could not have purchased a better cat! Our children treat him like a baby - dancing with him, slinging him over their shoulders, dressing him up, wrapping him in blankets,etc. - not once has he hurt our children! Quite amazing for a street cat who showed up at our door one day - our little Cat in the Hat!

April Fools Day!

2009-04-02T21:49:00.003-05:00

Well, after our ER incident - I completely forgot about April Fool's Day and to play a joke on my little ones! (Darn it!)

Someone else must have thought of it... because when I went to pick two of our girls up from their swimming classes our eldest daughter was walking out with her towel tightly wrapped around her and the swimming instructors walking with her.

I was intrigued to find out why she wasn't showered and dressed - but, it turns out someone took off with her clothes that were in a locker! The poor girl was a great sport about it - although a little embarassed. Hmmm.... I hope it was an April Fool's joke - because they took her favorite jeans from Christmas and a favorite shirt from her Grammy & Gramps!

I think when I come home I want a sewing machine that does embroidery - I am seriously going to embrioder ALL my children's clothing with our last name in inconspicuous places!

The Emergency Room!

2009-04-02T21:35:00.006-05:00

Well... on the eve of April Fools our entire little crew was in a Mexican Emergency Room with blood pouring off of our littlest daughters head. (She is OK!) BUT, while she was showering a large tile fell off of the wall and collided with her head before it broke the tile floor below - it fell from ceiling height (about 9 ft. or so) and it had to have some definite momentum going to crack the tile floor.

I was walking down the hall to check on bathtime when I heard a blood-curdling scream - the kind that stops your heart at the same moment your feet launch into a sprint. I found our little one wrapped in a towel just crying. When I asked what happened noone knew... and then I saw the blood - "Sargeant Mom" took over at that point - everyone was directed to dress, put shoes on and get Daddy while I dressed our little one and carried her to the car - of course, all the while applying pressure to the head wound.

When we finally got to the ER we were wheeled right in and attended to immediately! I have to say how grateful I am that this event happend after we had been in the country long enough to speak the language. Could you even imagine walking into an ER where noone spoke your language and were going to inject your child with something and stitch them up? (I have said before how grateful I am for medical advice in your own language and I have to amend that to say how grateful I am for understanding a language when medical advice was necessary!)

When all was said and done our little 'Strawberry' had stitches and a bandage wrapped around her head. She has received both medical attention and a priesthood blessing. She is doing fine - and she is a little trooper! We are so grateful that the damage was superficial and not worse! She had me take pictures of 'the bloody towel' for show and tell - so, she is going to be FINE!

We are so grateful for all the thoughts and prayers in our behalf - we have been blessed beyond measure during our time in Mexico - and we were blessed again the other night.

Quotes

2009-03-30T12:52:00.004-05:00

"Do you guys want grilled cheese and soap for lunch... I mean, sopa (soup)?" - My cute husband taking lunch orders.

Hairstylin'

2009-03-30T12:48:00.002-05:00

We had a day at the 'estetica' or beauty shop and all of our little ones came out looking adorable!

Here are the photos:

Feliz Cumpleanos Daddy!

2009-03-30T12:43:00.004-05:00

This month my cute husband was away from us for his birthday! (He was signing on our next house back in the United States!)

The day he came home the children led him from the front door to their birthday surprise! They helped make the cake, decorate the cake and buy and wrap his present. Each little one also made a special birthday card - some of the cards had even been colored with make-up!

Happy Birthday Daddy! We love you!

Eight is enough... plus one!

2009-03-26T16:38:00.005-05:00

This is what the breakfast table looked like for 5 days this month while some friends of ours went on a vacation! We had 9 (yes, nine) children living in our house! The ages ranged from 2 years old to twelve years old! After every meal I washed between 11 and 22 dishes with TONS of silverware! Every night after bathtime I washed 11 towels (because we only have 12 towels to our name while here in Mexico)and we went through 2-3 cereal boxes in one morning - it was pancakes and fruit after that!

We had a blast! The kids were all great - but I had a 2 year old again - 24 hours a day (only for 5 days) but - Wow! that can really remind you of ALL the things that I don't miss during those first few baby years! (But, for the sake of full disclosure, it reminded me of all the cute, little things that we do miss!) The kids loved having playmates around 24/7 and I realized, that if necessary, I could really mother more children... But, only if necessary!

But, for better or worse, we all made it!

Cerro de las Campanas

2009-03-24T11:02:00.004-05:00

Our little band of explorers traveled to Queretaro this past month to visit 'El Cerro de las Campanas' or The Hill of the Bells. It is named for the sounds the rocks make when you hit them - when the rocks are struck with other rocks they sound like church bells ringing! It was very interesting.

In 1867, during the French intervention in Mexico, the city of Queretaro was the last capital of Emperor Maximilian I of the Mexican Empire. The Mexican Empire was defeated and on June 19 Maximilian was executed by a firing squad on Cerro de las Campanas together with his Generals Miguel Miramón and Tomás Mejía. Inside the church at the top of the stairs are three marble cubes - these marble cubes represent the exact spots where Maximilian, Miramón and Mejía stood while they were executed by a firing squad. (I found out that they were not executed in the church... that was built later.)

The huge, garganutan statue that you see pictured (with my cute family standing next to it so that you can see just how large it is) is of Benito Juarez, one of Mexico's greatest leaders. The phrase on the statue translates (roughly) to: "Between individuals, like between nations, the respect of people's right is peace."

A legend states that if you are on this hill and hit one of the rocks three times that you will one day be wed! So, all of our children hit the rock... I did to; but I already found my 'Prince Charming'.

For Nana, Papa, Grammie & Gramps

2009-03-23T10:58:00.004-05:00

Here are pictures of your adorable grandchildren (do I sound biased?). As you know, they are growing very quickly - and I know that since we are living here, in Mexico, you have felt distanced from them... so, here are some snapshots to love while we are away!

Here are some fun quotes recently asked -

"Mom, what is America like?" - our little man (who was only three years old when we left the U.S.A.)

"Wow, this is like the Sacred Grove - only with horses!" - our Sunshine (while riding horses in the mountains of Mexico)

"I believe that having a dog helps kids grow up better, don't you agree?" - our Little Ladybug trying to convince us she needs a puppy.

"Mom, we need another baby." - our little Strawberry trying to convince us... well, you get the picture - I bought her some more dolls.

We've come a long way baby...

2009-03-21T22:52:00.006-05:00

We officially fit into Mexico... ok, well we are still obviously 'gringos' - the pale, white skin and the little red heads give that away - and each day various Mexicans approach the children to touch their hair and comment on their beauty; BUT, we now feel comfortable in situations surrounded by spanish speakers and we don't think twice about most things - church, grocery shopping, ordering food at resturants, eating at places before we were scared of, talking on the street, etc.

Speaking of eating at places we were once scared of - this picture is of my cute husband's favorite Mexican resturant. Seriously. Whenever he and I meet for lunch or whenever he chooses where our family goes for a weekend meal - it is here! The food is absolutely great, the people could not be more kind and once you get over the 'open air' atmosphere (meaning an occasional fly near or on your meal - you will NOT ever get a discount due to a fly in your soup) it is a great place.

We were here a couple of weekends ago and I took a picture for memories sake... but then, I thought, this picture says a LOT. When we first arrived in Mexico we ate at Chili's, Dominoes Pizza, McDonald's, Burger King, Sam's Club & Costco - and paid an arm and a leg to do it (A meal at McDonald's here cost our family around $40 USD). Now, we'll eat just about anywhere - the food is great and of course, "When in Rome..." (or Mexico - "VIVA!")

The Mexico City Temple

2009-03-13T10:39:00.008-05:00

This past weekend my husband and I traveled with our congregation to the Mexico City Temple. It was a wonderful, uplifting and beautiful experience.

We traveled in buses with the members from our area; leaving at 5am. When we arrived at the temple the parking lots were filled to capacity and there were long lines to attend the sessions in the temple. It was wonderful to see all the faithful Mexican members of the church literally lining up to take part in the learning and the supernal beauty that is part of the temple ordinances. My husband and I waited for approximately 2 hours to take part in a temple session. We were able to sit with and quietly visit with the members - we enjoyed immensely their testimonies, their spirits and their dedication.

Although it was a unique experience to attend a session completely shared in the Spanish language - we were each able, once again, to learn something new and to appreciate to a greater extent the absolute magnitude of having a worldwide church! What a blessing it was to take part in an international experience within the temple.

Below is a video produced by the LDS church and shares why temples are built in the church. If you reference the Holy Bible you will find that temples were (and are today) the great symbol of heaven and becoming closer to our Father in Heaven.

If you have question - please watch this video and reference your personal scriptures - look in the Holy Bible for how temples were used in the ancient days and you will find, for yourself, how the LDS church uses temples today.

Our little Iron Man...

2009-03-09T11:05:00.002-05:00

Our little man participated in a Mini-Olimpiada - he was chosen to represent his school in the regional races - along with five other students.

He did a wonderful job! I was able to be on the course with all the students (instead of in the stands) because of my great Nikon D90 camera - the administrators of the mini-olympics thought that I was a school photographer - so, I asked the school if I could take pictures for them and I had my pass onto the field... I represented the school and took tons of pictures of all the students - but I have to admit I took a few more of one particular racer!

All the children did a wonderful job... but, of course, I am biased toward this adorable little boy!

Tula Ruins

2009-03-09T10:10:00.005-05:00

A couple of weekends ago our band of explorers visited the site of the ruins of 'Tula' with the 15 ft. statues in stone - the Atlantes. The Toltec civilization lived here and the archeologists believe that the orders of the jaguar and eagle warriors and the practice of massive human sacrifices are likely to have begun here.

If you will look at some of the pictures of the reliefs you will notice the theme of a human being devoured by a serpent. This wall is located on the main temple grounds and depicts human sacrifice.

I find the symbolism of the serpent very interesting in this depiction for numerous reasons - first, these ancient peoples thought that they were worshipping a God through human sacrifice; second, in our Christian scripture there is an immortal that is also depicted by a serpent; third, human sacrifice is not practiced as worship to God the Father and his Son. Thus, I thought it was very appropriate that these ancient peoples who practiced human sacrifice to appease the 'God' were representing that immortal being as a serpent. The same being they are depicting in their reliefs, I believe, is the same being that is represented in our Christian literature as a serpent.

Our band of explorers had a great time visiting the museum and the pyramids and seeing the ancient statues and reliefs! We hope you enjoy learning a little about the Toltecs from our experiences! Adelante!

Geocaching!

2009-02-03T20:14:00.003-06:00

Monday was the celebration of a Mexican National holiday. Our family had a leisurely day at home, eating out on the terrazas and enjoying the warm Mexican day. Finally, we got a bit wrestless (in other words Mom had to get out of the house). Our little band of explorers decided to go Geocaching!

We followed our GPS guide by car until we had to park and go at it by foot... all the children had turns being the guide and then... we found the box!

It is so exciting for the kids to find the geocaches. It is a treasure hunt for them, every time! It is a great acivity and we all enjoy 'hunting' together! The walking time usually makes for some great time to talk and visit with the kids as well as teach them a bit about orientering!

We had a great time together and hope you enjoy our pictures!

"Cutie!"

2009-02-02T11:28:00.004-06:00

Thanks Grammy and Gramps for giving me the 'CUTIE' paint project. I loved it. Mommy and I made it with paint, glue and sparkles.