Merritt Top 5 of 2008

So, this year I was able to convince Dustin to play along and list a couple of things. His exact words to me were, "I don't wanna, I think it's gay!" Well, thanks for your support hon. I'm glad you were happy about a few things this year. If some of you think it's a dumb idea, just skip over this post. I enjoy looking back and remembering what things brought us joy! It's for me more than anything.


Dustin

1. Hunting with my boys

2. Larae letting me take the steps to becoming a cop

3. Dumb

4. Dumb

5. Dumb

Larae

1. Getting a new kitchen , thanks hon!

2. Thanksgiving, it's always fun to go home!

3. Dinosaur Land

4.Volleyball

5. Taylor Family Reunion

Ryan

1. Hunting with Dad

2. Taylor Family Reunion

3. Getting a dog

4. Christmas

5. Dinosaur Land

Aaron

1. Hunting with Dad

2. Getting a dog

3. Taylor Family Reunion

4. Dinosaur Land

5. Cub Country

Grace

1. Going to a new school

2. getting a dog

3. Dinosaur Land

4. loosing a BIG tooth

5. Christmas

Kate

1. Pre-school

2. Dinosaur Land

3. Thanksgiving

4. Getting a dog

5. Gateway Discovery Museum

Becca

1. getting potty-trained

2. Dinosaur Land

3. getting a dog

4. Gateway Discovery Museum

5. finally being big enough to play on the computer

Happy New Year!!!

Holiday Season 2008

We had a really good Christmas! For years I have said I was going to simplify the whole present thing. I actually did it this year. The kids were a little taken back at first, but I still think they enjoyed their new stuff! They received only ONE present from Santa this year. You could kind of tell they were going to say, "This is all Santa brought?" They know better, so they kept quiet! Mom and Dad gave them two gifts, one big, one small, and then they got one from their siblings. I actually really liked doing this, it took more emphasis off of presents and put it back where it needed to be.

We did our annual Gift to Jesus Night. On Christmas Eve we "wrap" Him a gift. We make it a goal of something we will work on all year long. We then put it in a pretty box and set it under the tree. We will peek at them next year to see how well we did. I think I did pretty well this last year, but I have had to give it to Him the last few years! Hopefully this year will be better.

We had a very "white" Christmas this year, lost power and everything! We measured a foot of snow on Christmas day, and I think the next day we got another foot! It has not melted yet, bummer! It sure is pretty , but I don't like the mess it brings!

I cannot find my Christmas pictures!!!

"Every Knee Shall Bow and Every Tounge Confess.."

even if it happens to be Han Solo and Chewbacca.

Some little visitors found their wan into our nativity. There's always room for everyone!

Snow Found Where?

So, Dustin got a text message at about 2:00 am this morning. Our friends, Greg and Maria Serrata, sent him a picture of a snow buried Las Vegas! Say What?

There hasn't been snow there since my Jr. high school years!! Has H-E-double hockey sticks frozen over? (oh, I'm just kidding family, I have good memories there)

By the looks of the picture, there was a lot! Very interesting....


this is where I would normally post the picture, but Dustin has it on his phone

No Princess and the Pea Story Here!

You know how the fairy tale goes. So gentle and delicate, that only a "true" princess could detect a pea under a gazillion mattresses. Well, we are definitely not royalty! Look what I found under our couch cushions.

Apparently the cushions double as garbage can and secret hiding place. You never know when you'll need a pencil (used as Harry Potter magic wands), a toy for when you're bored, a ribbon for your hair, an extra sock for when your foot is cold, or a cracker in case you start suffering from hunger pains!

I hate cleaning the couches. I have decided that as punishment for when they are misbehaving they are going to do all the petty chores I can't stand. They will clean the couches, wipe the banisters, scrub the base boards, and so forth. I should have the cleanest house around! Until, they learn to get along...who am I kidding, my house will be spotless forever!

Go ahead, get it over with... LAUGH!

My sister had a fun tag. I was a little hesitant to do it, but I'm a good sport. I'm able to laugh at myself.

These are pictures of me in my glory years. Don't I look FABULOUS! I think the bolo tie really says it all. The glasses say a lot too, I guess. This was 7Th grade. Did I at least get the hair right? The shirt was a few sizes to big. I think it belonged to my sister who would have just graduated from high school. Thanks Lea Ann!

So, let's try it again. Most people only have that one year of awkwardness. How's this for you guys. I traded in the pink and blue glasses for the infamous tortoise shell glasses. And the head band? well, that's just some tank top material cut for that good stretch feel. Real head bands are too constrictive. Grace would vouch for me on that!

How long could my ugly look run? Here's 12Th grade! I was a senior? I look like I'm 12 still! Thank goodness for the big hair look! Unfortunately my ugly run ran from 7Th- 12Th grade. I think I've come along way. I will say I had two boy friends in high school. That's gotta say something.

So, now that you've had a good laugh, it is your turn! I want to see your pictures, all of you!

The Law of Consecration

Sunday always seems to be the hardest day for me. I never want to wake up, I'm late, my kids are awful during Sacrament meeting. I'm quite sure that people are laughing at me while I sit in my car, alone putting on my make-up, while the rest of my family walk in together. They are probably saying in their minds, "Come on, Woman, pull it together!" (actually I have really good friends, so I know it is my guilt speaking to me)





I was sitting in Sacrament, trying to deal with unruly children. Dustin was in another ward today. It was hard for me to concentrate on the speakers. I know they talked of Christmas and the Law of Consecration. I'm sure I chose not to listen to intently, I know all about both of those, right?





I came home feeling guilty for my attitude. I pulled out the Ensign and in it was a talk given by Elder Maxwell in 2002. It was about the Law of Consecration. I figured I should read it, so I could say I learned something today. What a great talk. Elder Maxwell always speaks way over my head. I'm simple folk. We don't use big words, but I love that he does. I have to always re-read and figure out what he is saying. I was so thankful that the Lord softened my heart to take a few minutes to read and renew my commitments with Him.





Our whole life should be dedicated to serving the way the Lord would have us serve. We are in great debt to Him. He only asks that we do as He would do, then all that He has can be ours. As Elder Maxwell puts it, "what an exchange rate!"



How grateful I am for the opportunity to live on this earth. I'm truly blessed. I am thankful for the chance to pay my debt, even if it will never be reconciled.

Air Quotes

To use "air quotes" while you talk is a common thing. In fact it happens quite often. Did you know it is recorded that people started using them in 1927, but it became widespread in the 1990s? That's what Wikipedia says anyway.

Why am I talking about this? I think it is funny what our kids pick up on. Kate has been trying these out. She said to me,

"Mom, the boys won't let me play because I'm not a 'boy'."

"Mom, I don't like 'mayonnaise'."

I 'm afraid she is much like Joey off of Friends when she tries to use them. Do you remember that episode? He, or she, does not understand when to use them. They copy what they see. It is quite funny, but it will hopefully be limited to the air quotes. I hope she has better judgment when it comes to other things.

Come What May, and Love It

Dustin called me this morning and told me that Elder Wirthlin had passed away last night. To read more about it click here.

I have come to love this cute little man. He has been one of my favorite apostles for a while. He is always so happy and positive.

For my visiting teaching lesson this month I chose his talk, Come What May, and Love It. It was such a good talk. I loved his stories. He shared 4 ways we can be happier in our struggles. He said, " If we approach our adversities wisely, our hardest times can be times of greatest growth, which in turn can lead towards times of greatest happiness."

This talk was so uplifting. Who doesn't struggle in life? If there is anybody on that list, I wanna be on it!

The four things he suggested we do in times of discouragement and pain is :

1. Learn to laugh

2. Seek the Eternal

3. Remember the principle of compensation

4. Trust in the Father and the Son

I will miss Elder Wirthlin, but I'm so happy that he is with his wife. I will always remember him and his example.

What I'm Working On

I was having a terrible morning yesterday. The kids were not listening, or paying any attention to getting ready. We have been doing this for how many years? You would think they knew the routine and would just do what needed to be done! Needless to say, I had to get after them. I thought I handled it pretty well.

We ran out the door. Dustin slept in so I wasn't able to see him. I called him when I got home. I told him that I loved him and sorry I wasn't able to give him a kiss good-bye. He said, "Rough morning, huh?"

I said, "Yeah!" I went on to grumble about the kids.

He interrupted and said, "You know, you need to be a little nicer. You get all bent out of shape. Nobody wants to do anything for anyone when they are not being nice." I was a little taken back. I was ready to lay into him. It was the pot calling the kettle black, I thought. I bit my tongue. He was right.

I just quietly replied, " You're right. I know. I'll work on it."

So I'm needing some pointers of how to contain my composure as my children willingly disobey, ignore, and tune me out. Any suggestions.? I need some lessons on being kind.

I find this post ironic to my last post!

What Is Required to Succeed at Parenthood?

I know there are many answers to this question. The possibilities are endless. There are many events in life, where at the end of it, you have that I can do anything feeling, especially in being a parent!

Last night I was woken up by faint cries and moans. They were coming from Kate's room. I walked in there and she said, "Mom, my belly hurts." We have been suffering from a mild case of the flu due to my lack of preparedness and I forgot to have all kids get their flu shots.

"Here we go, " I thought. I ran and got her a "puke bucket," a.k.a any Tupperware bowl. I gave it to her and let her know it was there. I settled back into bed and fell asleep.

A half hour later I heard her little body wrenching and heaving. Poor thing! This continued for about three hours. She kept rotating between the toilet and her bucket. The last time she groaned, "Mom, I don't like this." I felt bad for her. She has never been sick like that. Throwing up and diarrhea were all new to her.

Why do I share this? Because at her last trip to the bathroom I demonstrated some very awesome skills. She was sitting on the toilet doing her "doodie" and she said, "Mom, I need to throw up." I saw her mouth open and she started the little body jerking. I QUICKLY, and I'm talking lightening speed, turned her around and we made it into the toilet rather all over the bathroom floor!

After she was cleaned and put back to bed, I had time to think.

"I am a true mother," I chuckled to myself. "I'm pretty amazing."

That is sweet success!

Coined Phrases

Rebecca Anne always makes us laugh! Out of all of our children she is the craziest! I dedicate this post to her because I want to be able to remember the funny things that seem to pop out of her mouth that make me chuckle.

1. "I promise never to do it ever again!"

2. "Oh, I'm sorry, Mom."

3. "We girls have to stick together!"

4. "You are so beautiful."

5. "Don't smell me!"

6. "Don't look out my window. Look out your own window!"

7. "Take it easy, Ace. Take it easy." (She says this as she approaches him, like he's a wild animal. He's just a tad nervous around her)

8. "Pinkie promise?"

9. "Oh, nothing."

10. "B-E-C-C-A"

12 Years Old!

Dust and I are celebrating out 12th wedding anniversary! Time flies by so fast but when I asked, "Has it felt like an eternity?"

He jokingly said, "Yes."

We went for a stroll down memory lane. For dinner we went to Jalisco, it's a Mexican restaurant. It is the first place we ate together, over 13 yrs ago! We both agreed it is not as good as it used to be, but it was fun to think back of our dating years, well I guess 9 mo.

We went downtown and went to The Off Broadway Theatre. We frequented that place a lot! we loved Quick Wits (now Laughing Stock). It is an improv production. It still amazes me that they are able to think of things right off the top of their heads. I thought they did really well, Dust was a little bummed because his favorite actor was not there. It was still fun!

We rode the Trax and boy was that an adventure. There was a homeless lady on there and she was just full of information! In case you didn't know tall people learn to grab there cups without spilling before us short people, due to their long fingers and all! So if you don't want to spill your drink, you need to grow! It was fun to learn that she has tips for writing a resume. Unfortunately we got off before we were able to read her English paper. I'm sure it would have been fascinating! Poor guy next to us. It was a good laugh.

We talked a lot and reminisced the good old days before kids and all. We talked about that maybe we don't have the perfect marriage, but if we keep working at it we will get to where we want to be.

It would have been fun to hit all the places we dated, or where he proposed, but Paul's Par Three no longer exists. The two of us had fun when we dated. We are getting old, so we don't remember everything, but we're pretty sure we enjoyed being together!!

Happy 12th, Dust. I love you!

November 16, 1996

Look how young we are!

The 'REAL' Merritts

So, I promised you a glance of the REAL family pictures. I know that in photos we usually choose the one where everybody is at their best. We rarely want to expose ourselves of anything less than perfect.

Well, I'm a fan of reality. I'm not embarrassed to let you know of our little fumbles in life. Nobody likes the "perfect" people anyway. They always seem to depress us who do not fare so well.

While I won't be sending these pictures out with the Christmas cards, they will sit on my dresser... FRAMED! It will be my little reminder to not take life so seriously. Life is too short to sweat the small stuff!

My joy today comes from knowing my family isn't perfect and we don't claim to be. We know that we were put in families to help each other to be better. Some days we're better at it than others, the important thing is we just keep trying!

Dustin having a battle with the root he tripped over. Needless to say the root won! Aaron is the only one worrying to smile for the camera. Grace is trying not to be distracted. Too funny!

The 'True' Merritt kids! We love our crazy kids!

Snow + Traffic, Snow + Dog = Depression!

I was woken early this morning by the sounds of little pitter patters on our window. I thought, "Oh it's raining. This is going to be a bad day. I can just feel it." And it wasn't just because I had aches and pains from the weather change,- gees I'm old- I wasn't looking forward to another day with the kids indoors.

I fell back asleep and woke up again because of the same noise. I was hoping that it would only last the early morning hours and move on, but it hadn't. Since I was awake, I decided to getup. I looked out the window and guess what I saw? SNOW!Yucky, blucky, mucky snow! I was instantly depressed.

"You better wake the kids early," I thought. I was going to be one of those prepared mothers.

This was my first time having the privilege of driving my kids to their far, far away school. I thought I should probably leave about 10 minutes early to allow time for the weather. The school was a normal 10-15 minute drive so that should be plenty of time.

The kids got up and ready without a hitch. They ate breakfast politely, brushed teeth quickly, and did everything they should have. We had prayer, gave hugs and kisses to Dustin, and were out the door by 7:40. Right on schedule! School starts at 8:20. We're going to make it.

Our neighborhood roads were a bit scary, but we made it to 6200 South, that's when my whole plan went out the window. "What!" That's all I could say without loosing my temper. The whole street was backed up. People were driving like they had never driven in the snow before. Did I mention this was my first snowy commute taking my children to their far, far away school?

We waited and waited in the horrible traffic. People were getting impatient. I was getting anxious. It was now 8:30 and we had quite a ways to go still. This stupid weather was ruining my good plan!

We finally made it to the school at 8:45. I had been on the road for over an hour! 1 hour to go about 7 miles!

I thought," Well at least I can't go anywhere, so my house will get cleaned."

I started in on the cleaning the moment we got home. The kids were playing nicely, everything was going smoothly. All I needed do was mop the floors. What a good plan. Then came those annoying, dreadful words you hate to hear, "Mom, can we play in the snow?" I sank further into my depression.

You always want to be the good mom, not the evil one,so you say,"Of course you can." I helped get the kids all ready, thinking it won't be too bad. I can still get the floors done. They will only make a little snowy mess. Did I mention this was my first experience having a dog go out in the snow? No, well, let's just say they make more of a mess than the kids.

Ace came running through the house covered in snow. It was all matted in his fur, so there was a lot more than there seemed. He was running like crazy to get it off. My floors were covered in little tiny, dog-sized snowballs. "There goes the floors, " I said.

I have given up today. It is only noon. I have 12 more hours to go. Can this day get any longer? I better watch what I say because apparently it can.

I need some chocolate! Why'd I throw out the Halloween candy to be good? What a day.

Family Prayer

We are counseled to pray each morning and night as a family. This is something I can say we are ALMOST perfect in. We are faithful in following this counsel. My joy today came from this daily event.

We start of by singing Let Us Gather in a Circle. This helps set the mood( whoever knew there was such a thing, but with children I feel it needs some help setting). We hold hands and Dustin calls on someone to pray. We USUALLY have the prayer, give kisses, I love yous, and then it is of to bed.

Tonight, it went something like this. We sang our song, held hands, and Becca started laughing. Her laughter was quite contagious. Soon all were laughing. Just as we composed ourselves, she would do it again, I would say it took a good five minutes to get around to praying.

Most parents might get frustrated, but we just chose to laugh right along with them. It made me happy that we were able to let go of the formality and just enjoy our kids.

Halloween 2008

Happy Halloween!!

We had such a fun day. After lunch we had our own little Halloween party. We started by trick-or-treating at our local Wal-Mart. The kids really enjoyed that. It wasn't that busy, so I had a lot of fun too. I didn't have to worry too much.

When we got home we played Halloween Pictionary and Hot Pumpkin. The kids really enjoyed both games. It's funny that as they get older they still enjoy playing games that even the little ones like.

We decorated our own cupcakes while we watched, It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown. That is always one of my favorite traditions because it reminds me of when I was little. I always looked forward to the Charlie Brown cartoons.

We ended the night with our annual ward Trunk-or-Treat. Dustin got so creative this year. We (yes, I said WE) built a hangman's noose and he hung himself from it. He borrowed a harness from work, so he could suspend in the air. They made a false noose and put it around his neck. It looked so great! He stuffed himself with batting so people would think it was a dummy. After a while of standing there, he would grab them and scream. The kids were so scared! The kids got lots of candy. They then decided later they didn't have enough so we made a round to the neighbors. They are definitely not lacking in the candy department.

We hope you all had a Happy Halloween! Here are some pictures we thought we'd share!

Kate was a cheerleader. She was so cute , she made up her own little cheer. "Let's go Chipmunks, let's go!"

Bec was a scarecrow. She walked around the whole night letting everybody know it. As we walked she was shouting, "I'm a scarecrow, I'm a scarecrow!"

Aaron was knight. He made a very handsome one, I thought. I'm not sure why he's not wearing his helmet.

Grace was a 50s Soda Girl. She was so cute. She was so excited to wear make-up!

Ryan was the Grim Reaper. He is missing his sickle in this picture. We added a crack in his skull too. He looked so good. He was happy to be out of the "character" costumes. He's too big.

This is Dustin hanging. It looked so cool in the dark. He really was pretty scary.

It Never Is too Late

The news has been rather disheartening lately. I have found my self upset after reading it. For example in one paper I found quite a few articles all dealing with religion. I didn't feel they were uplifting, maybe I'm wrong.

The first article I came to was dealing with the fact that a man was suing God. He is a Nebraska State Senator. He was trying to prove some dumb point about everyone having access to the courts, I don't know I didn't understand his thinking. He is a man who skips morning prayers and criticizes Christians.

The next article in big, bold letters read, "Trial starts in killing of LDS wife". This man was angry that his wife had joined the church and was trying to make him join. He didn't support her decisions that had to do with church, so he killed her and her 11 year-old son!

The last article took place in Rome. (I'm so happy there is going to be a temple there) Women "marched across the Tiber River." They were upset because the Catholic church bans women from the Priesthood. They feel it is "sexist, unjust." They have been ordained priests, but the church says any "women taking part in ordinations will be excommunicated."

All these articles bugged me! I feel like righteousness is being attacked at every side. It made me feel as if it was now the minority. There is a lot of work in spreading the gospel. How is it ever going to be done?

Then the Saturday paper came. The Church News is always in it. I received a new hope. I found some very uplifting stories.

Did you know there is a little old lady in AR who is 104 years old and she was baptized only a year ago? I was so tickled (I sound like my mom) by her. She stumbled upon the church last Easter Sunday. She went in, introduced herself, and was baptized a short time later. I guess it is never too late! I love the Church News, it is always so positive!

Then I remembered the words of our Prophet in Conference. I had been praying lately to be able to share the gospel with someone. I felt like my prayers hadn't been answered. Then he said this, "I urge you to pray for the opening of those areas, that we might share with them the joy of the gospel." I felt like that was an answer for me. So I have been asking for that instead. I'm still aware that I must share it with others, but I feel this is what the Lord wants of me right now.

As we share the gospel, people's hearts will be softened. Righteousness will be the majority once again, although I really think it probably still is. It just doesn't feel like it. I just need to believe in the power of prayer.

Fall Family Pictures

I have been bugging Dustin for a new family picture for a while (Becca is 6 mo old in the last one). He has always been for it, but never took the initiative to do it. I told him a few days ago that we were going up to the mountains to take them.

We packed our camera and tripod and headed up Butterfield Canyon. After driving to the very tip top (had to find the best spot), looking at the Kennecott Mine, we decided the best spot was at the bottom. Imagine that! We had to cross a small little creek, luckily everyone was able to stay out of the mud and water!

The actual picture taking was an adventure in itself! Trying to get 5 kids to look HAPPILY at the camera at the same time proved to be a challenge. I was glad we ended up with some that were usable. We got some very "real" family moments caught on film. Dustin even received an injury from tripping over a root sticking out of the ground as he tried to beat the timer! Who knew taking pictures could be so dangerous. We were lucky enough to catch him on camera giving that root a piece of his mind. It was quite comical!

All in all I think for not being professionals and not having a fancy camera we did a pretty good job. There are more. I'll post them later. I'm on Dust's computer and they are not all downloaded on his. The one on our header is from there as well.

The family

Dustin and I

Quiet Time

It is not very often that I get to lay down with Becca. The girl never holds still! I was able to read a book with her. Ten in the Meadow is one of her favorites. We read the words and played hide and seek with the cute little animals in the story. She has so much fun finding where those little critters are hiding.

After the story, she rolled over and said, "Goodnight, Mom." I felt like singing her to sleep, so I did. I started with I Love to See the Temple. She then asked for Jesus Wants Me for a Sunbeam. Before I knew it I had sung about all the Primary songs I could remember and she had finally given up and fallen asleep. I held her hand for what seemed like forever, kissed her, and I was able to sneak in a few Zs of my own. I love it when that happens!

Dustin Surprised Me

Today my joy came from being surprised by my husband. Grace and I were making dinner. He came in and said, "Oh, I wish you hadn't made that. I'm taking you to dinner tonight." I smiled because when I sarted dinner the thought came how much I really didn't want to cook.

"We need a sitter," I told him.

"I already took care of it," he replied.

I was not even ready for a night out. I had sweats on and no make-up, but I hurried and got ready. I like surprises.

We had a fun dinner. It was nice to have one-on-one time!

Today I Was Made Queen

Kate loves to play pretend. We always play some sort of "let's pretend." Today she was the teenage princess and she made me queen. We lived in a castle located at the top of the playground, had pretty dresses, and talked politely. A princess always uses her manners.

She squeezed my face between her tiny hands and said, "You're beautiful, mama. I love you." I am always mesmerized by her cute little smile and her genuine love for me. That is pure joy.

Finding Joy in the Journey

I decided I would journal all the things that bring me joy. It might be something my kids say or do, an event that happened, whatever.

I was mopping the kitchen floor today. In doing so, I took the bar stools from the bar. Somehow Becca got up on the bar. She was standing up there dancing, having a blast. When it came time to get down she couldn't. She was too frightened. She called out, "Momma, Momma help me. I can't get down!" I let her sweat it out a little, just long enough to teach her the lesson of not climbing up in the first place.

After another cry for help, I ran and got her. She cheerfully yelled out, "Oh, thank you mom. You are a super hero!" She ran around the room with arms stretched out in front of her, making flying noises.

It's great to be a Super Hero. I'd definitely rescue my kids to the ends of the earth!

Likening the Scriptures Unto Ourselves

One of the highlights of Thursday morning, for me, is the paper. Why? The Mormon Times section is published, I enjoy reading it.

Today it really hit home for me. Scott Card is one of the writers. He always has his own little section where he shares thoughts and feelings and different topics. Today he was writing about how the world today portrays and glorifies a life of ease. If you would like to read it click here.

He referred to the pride cycle in the Book of Mormon. I never thought of likening that to our day! (I KNOW YOU GUYS ARE SAYING, "WHERE HAS SHE BEEN") We are at the top of the pride cycle and on our way down. No wonder our nation is in such chaos, that's the only word I can think of to describe it!

The quote I really like out of it I'll share with you. he said:

"Wickedness is a luxury, a parasite; it thrives on excess and breathes the air of idleness."

I took a big gulp when I read this. I believe I am very guilty of the "I" word at times. I choose an easier path out of convenience for me. I used to visualize and anticipate the day I would inherit my eternal mansions and glory. How I saw myself sitting back and relaxing without a care in the world. How naive. Idleness is not a characteristic of our Heavenly Father! It is associated with Satan, one of his great tactics to enroll life-long members of his club.

I thought how I need to change this flaw. How can I change my thinking? How can I make my days more productive?

I think I am guilty of what I want to call the "mom syndrome." Maybe some of you suffer from it, maybe some of you don't, if you don't consider yourself lucky. I sometimes get so caught up in what I can offer this world I start to resent being a mom at times. After wiping up pee, completely scrubbing the house spotless, and literally giving all of myself at times, I start to question what I am doing. Am I really making a difference? Does anybody really care that Larae Merritt just cleaned her house for the 5000th time, that she made a paper doll with her girls, that she helped her boys build a fort, or SLAVE over the stove to make her husband a meal every night? After answering no to these questions I seem to shut down, I get lazy. I get an attitude that what I do doesn't matter anyway, so why try.

"How cunning the [tactics] of the evil one." That's all I can say! Satan would have me believe that no one cares. My family cares and isn't that what this life is all about? Who cares what the world thinks of me! Satan would have me think I'm not successful without the recognition and fame.

So, then I thought of my good friend, Jill. She had a post a month ago about making every moment count. She told how the missionaries make a goal for every hour. She had been doing it as well. I think I need to honestly and whole-heartedly try it. In doing so I will also have to have an attitude adjustment. I will follow the counsel of Our Prophet and "find joy in the journey." That's all I can do. Another friend, Julie, just posted how she has been viewing tasks in a different light and it has really helped her. I'm so glad she loves laundry! What a good example to me.

So now that I am heading down on my own pride cycle, now it's time to be humble and do what I'm supposed to. Good attitude and all!

Just Another Normal Sat...or so I Thought!

I was sitting at my computer during conference sessions and heard a knock at my front door. I was tempted not to answer it and just keep my lazy self in the chair. Something told me I should answer the door. Since I'm home alone, I looked out the window first. To my amazement there were 3 cop cars surrounding my house! I opened the door and my neighbor, Don, from across the street was there. He was out of breath and couldn't speak well, but this is what I heard, "There is a kid in a black stocking cap going around breaking into cars. These guys (the cops) are out looking for him. I just saw him jump into your back yard!"

I could feel the fear and panic begin to creep in. I said, "Thanks Don, I'll go lock my back door." My back door wasn't even locked. I always keep the front locked, but the kids go in and out so much I gave up trying to patrol the back door.

I ran to the door, pulled down the charlie bar, and peeked out the curtains. I wanted to make sure he was not still back there. I was a little jumpy! I was startled by an officer turning the corner. It was a sobering experience to see him with his weapon drawn, IN MY BACKYARD! He walked to the side of the house. I could tell he had just found the shed. I thought, "Oh, my goodness he's in our shed!" I waited to see him reappear. It seemed like forever. He took so long I couldn't watch.

I came back to the window and he was looking over the fence. Whew! He was not in the shed. He came back to the front of the house. I opened the door and could hear him talking. They believe he was jumping fences. That was somewhat of a relief to me. Chances are he's gone and will get away from here as far as possible. I'm still pretty nervous though.

We are staying put for the afternoon. I don't want to chance leaving my home empty. Grace has devised a plan to catch the "bad guy." She wants to camouflage a net and a place jewelry inside it. When they go for the jewelry we would pull the net and catch them! I believe that came from an episode of Suite Life.

How grateful I am right now for the safety and protection we received from Heavenly Father. I pray for it everyday. I think if this kid really wanted something he could have turned violent and entered my home through an open door. I'm thankful he kept on going. I hope all my other neighbors were blessed in the same manner.

I'm thankful for the opportunity it gave as a teaching lesson to my children. Ryan was "really freaking out." I let him know it is times like this we are able to pray and ask for comfort. I let him know I have done it and feel calm. It also gave me the chance to talk about keeping our doors locked and being careful of strangers.

How grateful I am for a watchful neighbor. Who despite his own safety came to my house to warn me. I thought it a little funny that it was him who knocked on my door and not the cops. I know he was aware Dustin was out of town and I was home alone. I'm grateful that Heavenly Father was watching over us and protecting us.

The Answer to One Important Question...

Remember when I asked if there was a recipe that your whole family would eat without complaints? Well, for me that question has been answered.

Dustin has been gone for the hunting season. He's on hunt #2. Thankfully that is all for the year. While he was gone, I went on strike! I refused to cook. So what have my kids been eating? Let me tell ya...hot dogs, french bread pizza, breakfast burritos, and the biggest hit yet, Ramen Noodles!! Am I kidding? No I am not. They have loved dinner, no complaints. I guess all I needed was some pre-packaged food to do the trick-although I made the burritos and the pizza. Now if I can only convince the BIG kid when he gets back!

My girls liked the Ramen so much. I came down the stairs to this:

Have to get every last drop!

They wouldn't even stop to say, "cheese." Very unusual. What does this say about my cooking?

A four year-old, a pen, and 1 distracted mother...

Last night I was a little occupied -I was blog surfing. It was late, so I tuned off the computer and went to get ready for bed. Becca was still up due to a late nap. I looked at her and she had a few pen markings on her. I ignored it and put her to bed. I next scooped up Kate and noticed she had more than a few pen markings all over her. She was asleep, so I decided to talk to her about it in the morning.

This morning she explained, "Mom I made me some friends! I needed some friends."

"Well, what about your sister?" I asked.

"Oh, well she needed some too," she said as a matter of fact.

I thought,"Well I guess we're wearing pants today. Good thing it's cool today."

As I washed her friends away, Kate said,"Oh, good. They were being mean." She makes me laugh.

These crazy girls. I never know what will happen with them! Here are some pics of their "friends." Sorry for the immodest shots. You wouldn't be able to see them if they had their pants on.

There was a friend on each knee,

one on each foot.

Becca's were just everywhere!

Their faces say it all.

How can you get angry at these cute little mugs?

What I Miss About Las Vegas...

I know some people have a problem with the lifestyle that is portrayed there, but honestly there are a lot of good people there. My family to name a few (and that's quite a few)! I really do get homesick. I have always loved being at home. There was such a peace in our home. I know that might sound crazy with so many people living there, but it's true. I miss seeing my mom everyday. Sometimes I just sit and wonder what that would be like... I think I would love it. My home was a place I always felt safe. Even though we were not a touchy-feely family( we don't hug and scream and all that nonsense when we see each other, we like our personal space), we love one another.

I miss hanging out with my sisters. When I'm here in UT I seem so happy and content, but honestly I miss my sisters. I wish I could call them up and go shopping, or just hang out with them and let our kiddos play. It stinks growing up!

The other thing I miss about Vegas is all the opportunities I had to share the gospel. You all know how I have had that burning desire lately. I have been praying to find someone to share "the good news" with , but my prayers have not been answered yet. It's really hard here. Our neighborhood, you're either active, or less active. I know there are a few families, but I don't have the opportunity to interact with them. I am not that comfortable with just knocking on their door and letting them know I have something great for them. Who knows maybe I should try it! It would be an experience that's for sure.

The UT culture is so different. I don't mean in a bad way (sorry my UT friends who read this blog). I remember visiting here from Vegas for baby blessings for my older brothers and when I would say where I was from, I honestly remember hearing GASP!!

One huge thing is the fact in Vegas I was different. I lived very different than a lot of my friends. That sparked their curiosity. That would lead to gospel conversations. I feel the same as everyone else here (again, not a bad thing I love you all Camille, Rachael, Jayleen, Jill, Shauna, Trina, Tami, Jennifer, sisters-in-law, mother-in-law, and anyone else that I may not know reads this). I don't know. I just like to stand out a little. Maybe I'm being too whiny. I have 5 fabulous children that I adore. I love my husband dearly. And I do have the best in-laws ever! I should count my blessings!

-How's that for a mood change? PMS!? TMI, I know!

Today I Feel A Lot Like...

Jenny Coleman (the mother on Where the Red Fern Grows)!!

Do you remember that movie and what she looked like? I always felt that she was one tired, over whelmed, and under appreciated woman. She even seemed a little CRANKY! Why, I even had the muddy dog run across my recently mopped kitchen floor!

Every well in my body is dried, especially the patience well. My poor kids. Hopefully tomorrow will be better. I'll pray for that tonight.

I added a story to the last posts. Sorry I wasn't able to do it yesterday. It is a cute one.

Does anybody know why sometimes blogger scrunches all the paragraphs together? It really annoys me!

Cute Kid Things...

Grace came home from church today with a list of her talents. She's so cute! I'm glad she knows and believes in herself.

Grace's Talents

1. gymnastics (she learned to do a back bend, that's her gymnastics)

2. I'm good at making friends

3. good at cooking cookies

4. I'm good at art

5. I'm good at cleaning

She came home with this cute little poem:

Every star is different,

And so is every child.

Some are bright and happy

and some are meek and mild.

Everyone is needed

for just what he can do.

You're the only person

who ever can be you.

One of the greatest truths is that we are all different and have our own roles to perform on earth. It is so important to find what those are.

Ryan wrote his very own talk for Primary. I got a little chocked up because I had forgotten to write it, but he said he wrote his own. It was a proud moment for me. It was so simple, but the gospel is that way! Here's his talk on baptism.

"When we are baptized, we're confirmed to be a member of the church. When you're baptized you make covenants to Heavenly Father. You get the gift of the Holy ghost, so you know when you do right or wrong by a simple feeling. One of the most important covenants is keeping the commandments. Being baptized is very important, it is the first step to having Eternal Life. I'd like to beary (I love it when they say that) my testimony. I know the church is true. I know Joseph Smith was a true prophet, and that Pres. Monson is the true prophet today. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen."

He wrote that all by himself, I promise I didn't help. What a good kid!

Becca and I were walking, quickley, to the restroom during church. I was in a "gotta get her to the bathroom" zone. I hadn't noticed what we had just passed, but Becca did! She stopped and ran to a LARGE (how did I miss it?) picture of Christ and said, "Mom, Jesus!"

"That is Jesus," I ackowledged.

"He's so beautiful. I like him, " she said. I smiled at her. I was glad she spotted him.

"He is beautiful," I agreed.

I think I do that too much in life. I get in my tunnel vision and forget to recognize His presence in my life. After all, it is because of Him that I am blessed everyday. I need to stop and recognize Him. Thanks Becca! They really teach us don't they.

MY New Book...

I try to read my scriptures everyday. I do pretty good, but I felt I needed something more. I don't have much extra time to do all that I want, but I feel I have a few minutes to spare reading a good, uplifting book. I love Sheri Dew and was in the store and found this one on the clearance table. Can't beat that!

It was the pick-me-up I desperately needed! This book was written to help you find the reasons you were sent here and to fulfill them. I have started a journal of my readings. Every quote that I like will find a spot in it. I am thinking that I want to start a separate blog for my quotes. I need some help to know how to do the labels, so I can add different topics. That way you can click on a topic and bring up all the quotes in that category. (Atleast one part of my life should be organized, better to be the spiritual side,right?) Can't wait to hear how and get started. Thanks so much!

I apologize in advance for my thoughts for the day. They will most likely come from this source. Hope you all like Sister Dew as much as me!

A Message for Oprah

The other night I had a dream that I was on the Oprah Show. It was a little fuzzy about the topic of the show, but I was CLEARLY explaining to her that we are all children of God.

I have no idea where this came from! I know Oprah believes in God. I think she is aware that we are God's children. The only thing is that I was so angry with her because she didn't believe in the pre-mortal life. I was trying to explain it to her. I couldn't understand the thinking that, "yes, we are God's children, but we did not live with Him before we came here." (I do not know if this is Oprah's true belief, just my crazy dream)

I am so thankful for this knowledge! I think it a true blessing to know where I came from. The revelation of the Plan of Salvation is one of the greatest, I believe. I couldn't imagine going through life (excuse the common phrases) not knowing "who am I," "why am I here," and "where I am going?"

I was watching Dr. Phil the other night. A young mother had lost her husband in a car accident. She was so, so sad. You could almost touch her grief. She knew of God and believed in an after life, but she didn't know the whole truth. She was unaware that her husband was fine, that her husband has a purpose on the other side, that her sweet family could be together forever. She was pregnant with their third child. It made her angry that her baby would never know her father. What a comfort the truths of the gospel are. I wanted to jump through the screen and hug her, tell her all about what I know to be true.

If I could have one wish, it would be to shout this from the roof tops! I think that's where Oprah comes in. I have had a burning desire lately to tell the world of the Restoration. Has anyone else been feeling this? I don't know, maybe I should write Oprah and let her know I had an "ah-ha" moment and everybody needs to hear it!

Update on Dustin

Yesterday, Dustin went and took the Physical part of the test. He did very well. He said that he was not at the very top, but he did better than the average guy. I'm glad he did so well. He can do 45 push ups straight, 38 REAL sit-ups (not crunches) in 1 minute, he has a vertical jump of 23 inches, and can run a mile and a half in 11 min and 27 sec. Way better than me! It took them three hours to do this part because 110 men came to try to get on.

Since he passed that part, he had to stay and take a 3 hr suitability test. He said the first two parts were pretty easy. They had to watch some clips on different situations and say what they would do and what they thought. Then they had to write up a police report of their own after watching the situation on video. The last part he is a little scared of. It was on some type of law. He had to put words in the blanks where he thought they might fit- he had never heard of the law and had a hard time with the words. I think he probably did fine. We are hoping and praying!

Even though we are taking quite a pay cut, I feel really good about our decision! Dust has always wanted to be an officer, but I kind of squashed the matter when it came up. It wasn't till lately he expressed some concerns he has that I thought maybe this is the job he was meant for. I was really scared about safety, money, things like that.

One day while I was driving and thinking about the matter, I had such an overwhelming feeling of love fill me and the words, "He will be great. He will move up fast, he will succeed," come to my mind. I started crying. How can I argue with that! I know what the Spirit feels like! I have felt peace from that moment since.

I am so grateful that Our Heavenly Father is so aware of what we are feeling and going through. I know He knows what is best for us and the path that is right for us. We just have to have the faith to trust Him and follow His lead.

Keep Dustin in your prayers. I know he is so nervous. He wants this sooo bad. Thanks!

This Thing Called Aging

I was looking for my Oil of Olay face scrub, the one that exfoliates and helps me to look younger. I couldn't find it! I was a little upset. I feel I NEED it, I am starting to get some fine lines under my eyes and on the sides. Not being able to find it, I had to settle to wash with my Cetephil.

It got me thinking those whole two minutes while I washed. Do I really need it that bad? What's wrong with getting older? Everybody's doing it! I feel 15 on the inside, so I can't look that old. Right?

I have been obsessed with these thoughts lately. Isn't getting older a good thing? When we are little, we can't wait to be a teenager. That is all I hear from Grace and Kate, "Mom, when I'm a teenager...". Then you are a teenager and can't wait til you graduate and go to college, or get married and have kids. When all of those have happened, you can't wait to be an Empty Nester! The goal is to get OLDER!

If so, then why do I worry about appearing older? Gray hairs are starting to come. I have toyed with the idea of breaking down and finally paying to have my hair dyed - not yet!

Have I not earned these wrinkles on my face, my stretch marks on my belly? Why can't I wear them with pride? Be like the men who brag of their battle wounds. I could say something like,
" Yeah I got this one from 8 hrs of labor. Oh, and this wrinkle on my face here, I got that from staying up all night with my babies." Each wrinkle, gray hair, or any aging sign for that matter, should come with a tag letting us know why we earned it. Kind of like a Certificate of Achievement because honestly that's what they are.

I think of all the "old" people I know. They are wonderful, good individuals that I admire. They are people I try to emulate. I view them as wise, talented, beautiful beings! They are not old wrinkly folks who need to invest in more anti-wrinkle cream. I want to be like them!

So, maybe it is time to just age gracefully. I wouldn't have to buy more exfoliating cleanser, right? I'll save myself a few dollars. Maybe, we'll see.

By the way, I did find my cream. Dustin has been using it! He is trying to appear younger for his cop testing. He is afraid of looking like the oldest guy there, as if that is a bad thing. It might give him an advantage. He needs to read my blog!

What's Going on in Dustin's Life

Dustin was set apart today as the Stake YM's 1st Counselor today. He will not be released as a High Councilor until the middle of next month. They need his help on a few things before he can be released. I feel really bad because he is going to be so busy. The kids have been asking for him all day today. He's usually done with meetings at about 2:00 on Sundays, not today. With both callings he has lived at the church all day. We'll probably see him around 8 or 8:30. I kind of got a taste of what the wives of our church leaders must go through, only on a lot less scale. It's hard having your husband gone. I couldn't imagine it going on for days.



For those of you who don't know, Dustin is planning to try to get on the Highway Patrol. He sold his bike on Friday to kick off the "getting out of debt plan". I don't think I need to convince anyone it was a sad day for him. He has until Tuesday to keep riding it, then it's gone. We will be selling the motor home in order to pay off the van. Then we should be set to be poor! He is having second thoughts after getting this calling though. We will have to pray and fast some more to make sure this is the direction we should be going in. I really think it is.

He ended up coming home early, so even though he was tired and didn't feel up to it, he had promised the boys some "Dad time". They wanted to play a quick game of Basketball. What a good dad!

(I started this post on Sun. Due to laziness and not wanting to type everything over, I decided to not mess with it, Pretend it is Sunday!)

A Fun website!!

My friend Tami introduced me to picnik.com. I had a chance to mess around. It was so fun play with all their stuff. Check it out. I'm still learning. It's a fun way to post pictures. I just hope they will print out alright.

Aaron's Birthday

Happy 9th!!

This post is quite late. Aaron's birthday was on Sept. 2nd. We did not celebrate it till Sept 6th. He had a fun birthday. He invited a few friends, we played games, and had a pinata. He was excited to have friends from his new school. Last year he didn't know anyone, so we let him have a friend birthday this year- we alternate every other year between family and friends.

Aaron is such a good kid. He has the emotional make-up of a girl though. He is very sensitive and loving. He is quite moody, but I think he will grow out of it.

He is my biggest helper with the girls. He was always excited about having a baby in the house. He keeps begging for a brother. I would, but his father is not cooperating! I love Aaron and all the funny, wild things he does. He is our "no fear" child. Always willing to try any new adventure! We are happy he is part of our family.

These stilts were his favorite gift. He received lots of Pokemon card, some shirts, Pirates of the Caribbean action figures, and lots of sidewalk chalk. We got him the stilts and a Kung Fu Panda Sword- very annoying sounds!!

A Strange Request!!!

After family night tonight, we were sitting down and having our ice cream. Ryan out of the blue said, "Mom, I want armpit hair," as if I was a magic genie and could grant his wish.

I laughed and said, "Sorry pal. I can't give that to you."

I just got a kick out of his request. When he actually goes through puberty, I doubt he will want all that comes with it. Apparently he has a friend who has a whole bunch. He was bragging about how hairy his pits were. BOYS!? My kids are growing up way too fast.

My New Haircut

I have been toying with the idea of cutting my hair for a while. I have been growing it out since February of '07. I finally got it past my shoulders! It was a lot of work and patience for me. A big accomplishment in my mind considering my hair was what my boys called "a boy's haircut."

After seeing my sister-in-law's cute new style, I wanted it even more. Thanks Audrey! So I did it. I chopped it off. It's not as short as before. Dustin told me he liked it longer. They cut 5 inches off! Usually I have to be careful when I tell them to cut 1 inch!

I really like the change. It was nice to have long hair again. I just found myself always pulling it back. I don't think that is an attractive style. I'm getting used to it. I have now used a flat iron. I was scared at first, but I'm getting the hang of it. I LOVE change!

Labor Day Weekend 2008

We went to visit Dustin's grandparents. They live "up in the mountains". We call it Grandma's Land. It was a fun quick get away from everyday life. The kids forgot all about TV and just had fun being with the family. We were lucky to come up with his parents and his sister, Wendy, and her family. We all had fun!

Family photo on Grandma's swing.

Ryan, looking for the perfect skipping rock. The kids love to stand on the bridge and throw rocks in the river.

Aaron shooting Cory's 22. I even took a turn. A favorite is to practice shooting skills. Aaron likes to collect the bullet casings. he came home with 82!

Grace on the riding lawn mower. They had a blast with these last year. She is sporting sunglasses she received from Dustin's Uncle Randy.

Kate throwing rocks off the bridge. A great way to pass the time.

Becca in the big tree swing. the little ones love this! Their dads get them soaring high!

We found this little guy while looking for rocks. We disturbed his home. He went searching for a new one.

Great grandparents, grandparents, and all the grand kids who were there. Dustin's grandpa wouldn't get in the picture. He was being a stinker.

Spending time with those Merritts you can end up looking like this!

We had such a fun day!