Merritt Memories

Last year it was Chewbacca and Han Solo . This year I found this: I guess I can't be surprised when new visitors show up in our nativity every year. We would like to welcome Col. Mustard, Miss Peacock, and Professor Plum. No one will be turned away!

A few months ago I bought a scale. Yes, in all the 13 years that we have been married, I've never owned one. My kids LOVE this thing. They think it is so great to get on it every day. Oh, to weigh 40 lbs again! Before Kate and Becca step on it they always say, "Let's see how healthy I am." They step up on it and a number in the 30s flashes up on the screen. They are so happy."I'm so healthy," they always say. You can't do anything, but clap for them and join in their enthusiasm! The other day I was on the scale. I try to do this without them around because they know how to read numbers. I really don't feel like them spreading the word of how much I weigh. Yes. They would tell people. Anyway- Becca was walking in the hall and ran in because I was on the scale. I tried to jump off, but the stupid screen stayed on way too long. Becca says, " Mom, you're so healthy! You have 3 numbers. That's so healthy!" She was so proud of me. It ...

Life has been a little chaotic for me. I can't believe how the time is flying by! I think last week would have been dreadful if it hadn't been for a few instances that made me laugh, take it all in, and say, "It's not so bad." My kids are funny, but the one child of mine that has more personality than her little body can handle is Becca! Holy cow can she make us laugh. She takes everything in, she's quite the sponge. We have been watching a lot of the holiday movies on, after all they're only on once a year. My kid's favorites have been the Home Alone stories. I will say none of the sequels are as good as the original. I'm sure you all know the story about Kevin. He's tired of his family being mean to him, so he wishes he had no family. It comes true (he thinks, anyway) and he's alone for Christmas. Becca believes her family is mean as well. And lately anytime any one gets upset with her, or she gets in trouble, she marches to the top of th...

During our testimony meeting yesterday, Becca informed me that she wanted to go up and talk. I told her, "No, you have to know what to say." She pestered me with, " Can I go up now? It's my turn, Mom." She did this over and over. She was so determined to talk into that microphone. I just kept remembering that they suggest you let your little ones go up if they are able to do it themselves. I finally said, " Becca you have to go up and tell what you know about Jesus. What do you know about Jesus?" I knew this would quiet her because clearly she is only four years old, so what would she really know? She said to me, " I know Jesus healed the blind man." I was caught off guard and a little embarrassed. "What else do you know?" I asked her, this time a little more humbly. "He blesses our food. He loves me," she replied. Now I felt awful! My little 4 year old has a testimony of Jesus. Who am I to tell her that she can't sha...

I can't believe it is already December!! I feel like it should still be September. October and November flew by and it scares me that this month will be the exact same. Does anyone else feel the same way? I know our life is crazy, so it could make time pass quickly. On Sunday, the lesson for the Young Women was on managing your time wisely. I prepared the lesson, but because of my lack of planning and not realizing it was the 5th Sunday, it was not my turn to teach. After feeling upset, I soon realized that I actually needed that lesson. I never learned to do that when I was young. I don't know where I was when that lesson was given! I took notes and have started applying points from the manual. If you want you can review it here . There are 6 steps they give that help you manage your time. Our time on this earth comes and goes so fast! I think it is important to make the most of it. There will come a time we will want it back if we were wasteful. This is taken from The Viewpoi...

The holiday season is here! I have to admit that I love this time of year, but truly it is exhausting! We celebrated Thanksgiving here at home this year. It was the "in-law year" for Dustin's family and normally we make it to Las Vegas, but this year circumstances were different. I'm hoping to at least make it in a few months! It was a fun day. We had my little family, Dustin's mom and dad, and his brother, Spencer. His Grandma Nelson also joined us! I made some cute little turkey place settings, but forgot to get a picture, the table was so cute! We visited a few hours and then the day was done. I will say how lucky we were to have Dustin home for the holiday! It's a luxury, I'm finding out. Here's a picture of out cute center piece. I found everything on clearance at Wal-Mart and put it together. It only cost me around $12!I love good deals! I wish I had the turkeys, they were so cute! I woke up at 11:30 pm Thanksgiving night to make the best of ...

And I've officially LOST IT!! How the heck am i going to get through all of this!?!? Dustin switched to nights today. Maybe that's the matter. That's all I can say. Thanks for letting me vent. PS I did find these, they helped! Goota love Hilary Weeks. She is such a funny lady!

I realize I have been slacking on my daily thanks. Trust me, I have been thankful in my heart each day. I just haven't had the opportunity to stop, gather thoughts, and then write. It's a very time consuming process. My thanks today is expressed toward my Savior, Jesus Christ. I know my words could never do Him justice, but I would like to try. His example was was flawless! We are commanded to be like Him. At times that seems overwhelming and impossible to me. I am more "flesh" than I would like to admit. I lack compassion, love, and kindness at times. Obedience is hard to do without whining. How am I ever going to be "like Him" ? I know that if I try to become like Him on my own, I will never make it. I don't have to do anything alone. He suffered and gave His life, so I wouldn't be alone. He suffered ALL things: our fears, our infirmities, weaknesses, sadness, heart breaks, so He would know how to help us. I am so grateful for this. When we feel li...

I have recently come to understand why "thankful for my health" has made it to the top of the list. In our stake about 8 or 9 months ago, maybe even a year, a 41 year-old woman was diagnosed with liver cancer. The prognosis was not good and she passed away last month. She left behind her husband and 5 daughters ranging in age 17- 2. Dustin was on the high council with her husband and then worked with him in Stake Young Mens. I knew her, not extremely well, but I would consider her a friend. Our daughters played together, so we would see each other outside of church. I can't even begin to explain how my heart sank when Dustin came home and told me the bad news. I thought, "How unfair. Her baby is one. She will never have a memory of her mom. Her girls are so young!" It is then that I became extremely grateful for my own health. How lucky I am to have a body that works properly, for the moment. I learned not to take a day for granted. I don't know when my last...

Friends are so important in this life. I had the opportunity of spending the weekend with some good friends. Me, my mother-in-law (Lori), Wendy (sister-in-law), Tristan, and Camille all had a great time at Time out for Women. It was nice not to have to attend the function all by myself. I have done that before! I am so grateful for all the friends I have made throughout my life. I remember them so well. I think some people are a little surprised that I remember them. It has been fun to reconnect with friends on Facebook. What a great thing! I think Our Heavenly Father puts certain people in our lives at certain times to help us with what we will need. I love my friends Kellie and Kristin! They were my friends in Jr. high and high school. It was comforting to have friends who believe the same as I did. They always understood how hard being a teenager can be. While I don't keep in contact with them as much as I would love to, I know they would still do anything for me and I would do ...

I would not be where I am today if it were not for my belief in and belonging to tThe Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. For this I am grateful. I am grateful to know what I know, that I am a daughter of a loving Heavenly Father, my life here has a purpose, and I can have all that He has one day. I lumped all the blessings of the gospel into one post. I only have fifteen days! This means today I am thankful for: 1. prayer- how lucky am I to talk to Him everyday and I know he hears me! 2. scriptures- I know these contain all that we are to do if we want to live with Him again someday! 3. temples- I am so over joyed to know if we live right here, I can be with my husband and children FOREVER, not just "til death do you part" I enjoy going monthly to remind myself why I'm here and what I should be doing. 4. a prophet- in days of old the Lord had worthy men who were his "mouthpiece" it's comforting to know that has not changed, He has not changed. The ...

I was watching KBYU this afternoon. Marvin J Ashton was giving a devotional, reminding us to be a thankful people. I got lost in what he was saying. I started realizing that at times I am not as grateful as I ought to be. I have been blessed with many things, all given to me by the hand of the Lord. His talk motivated me to think of one thing I am truly grateful for each day. So, I thought I would share with you guys and keep track all at the same time. From now until Thanksgiving it is my goal to record one thing each day. What I am thankful for today: I am thankful for family. I know it sounds a little cliche, everybody is always thankful for their family. But I feel it is so appropriate for family to be #1 in our lives. The family plays a HUGE role in our becoming who we need to be. I am thankful for parents who taught me correct principles. They led by example. My parents supported me in all I ever attempted and in the end were my biggest advocates growing up (we don't ever rea...

I have to be honest and say that I thought this birthday would be terrible for me. I knew Dustin would be working this weekend. It would be my first birthday without him. On my list of things to do were: finish cleaning, catch up with laundry, run around town for Dustin trying to find the CTR pins he needed and make a salad for his stake dinner (he still has not been released from his Stake YM calling, life has been crazy). Sounds fun huh? Yeah that's why I was little bummed. Dustin told me he planned on taking me out to dinner on Friday. I was happy that we would be able to celebrate a little, even if it was a day before my birthday. Friday rolled around and I was getting ready. I thought of where I might want to go. I always like to try new places, but I felt like Wingers. I love chicken! I wanted to look good, so I dressed up nice. Dustin came in and said, "Hey, do you mind if I just wear a t-shirt?" I wanted to strangle him! Could he at least act like this was a speci...

I'm not one for decorating up my house, but I do love the little projects my kids make. I wanted a cute something for Thanksgiving. I found a cute idea and wanted to try it out. First go gather all your materials. You will need: paper plate fall colored paints paint brush (I like the foam brushes for the kids) fall leaves,pine cones (we went on a nature walk and found what we needed) cute ribbon pumpkin seeds (maybe beans will work or almonds) buttons glue hot glue gun We cut a hole out of the plate and then painted it brown. Next, glue on your leaves. After that you glue on you seeds and buttons. I then had the kids paint the seeds any fall colors they wanted. Last, we glued on the bow. I used the glue gun to glue loose items and bow. I think they turned out really cute. I placed them on easels to display as a center piece, but I think kids would like them in their rooms too.

I always thought it was genes, Dust and I are pretty smart, Grandmas and Grandpas are too! Then I thought it was their personalities. They are very confident, independent, speak their mind kind of kids. I believe a good mom makes a difference too. I work my butt off getting them ready for school! Well, never mind all of that. Kate filled me in on the secret. It went like this: Kate: "Mom, I know that cowgirls come from Texas." Me: "Really? You're so smart. How did you get to be so smart? Is it because you have a good mom?" Kate: "No. I watch Spongebob. He teaches me these things." There you have it, our little secret. you want your kids to be overachievers? Just let them watch Spongebob. He'll teach them all they'll ever need to know! Atleast she didn't say Patrick! PS I know my kids are who they are because they were born that way. I don't want anyone thinking my head is that big! And I hate Spongebob! Do you think she knows this and ...

It's a good thing Camille had a camera or these memories would be lost forever!

a nerd, a zombie, Percy Jackson, Rambo, a vampire, a cowgirl, and a GOOD, little witch? You get the Merritts! We all had fun dressing up this year! Too bad I was a slacker and didn't take any pictures. If I have time, I'll steal some! (Dustin- nerd, Larae- zombie, Ryan- Percy Jackson, Aaron-Rambo, Grace- vampire, Kate- cowgirl, Becca- GOOD witch, she wouldn't be a bad one)

For the longest time I have been dropping hints to my significant other that I want a baby. For some reason he has ignored them or just flat out told me no. This has always left me a little perturbed. Why? Why can't we have another baby? It's not like it will impact us that much. Once you have three, you can have 12, right? I realized today I can't have any more kids. Not because I physically can't, but emotionally I think I may not survive. I won't be the mom I want to be if I were to add one more little bundle of joy to the family. I do a little home Halloween party for the kids every year, just us. As I was getting things organized for tomorrow, it took me back 10 years when my boys were all I had. We did so many fun things together. I really enjoyed being a mom back then. Not that I don't now, it's just different. My kids are all different ages, like totally different things. Stresses are different. I feel I'm pulled in a billion directions to satisf...

it's OVERRATED!! Who cares if the dog came running through the house muddy paws and all from the days snow storm? Does it really matter that you only accomplished one goal set for the day? It's not that bad that you've gained 2 lbs back, it could be all 10! And so what if you were making dessert and accidentally stuck it under the running water. Grab a paper towel and soak up the extra water, that's what they're for. I feel a lot better when I keep things in perspective. Tomorrow's another day, plenty more to try again!

Last week as we we were getting use to the idea of Dustin graduating and preparing for this change in our lives, Heavenly Father decided to throw another curve ball our way. We knew that our ward was due for a bishopric change and that it would be coming soon. Dustin was teased that he would be the new bishop, we just laughed it off thinking, "yeah, right!" Well, we were half right. He isn't the new bishop, but he is now the 2nd counselor. Dustin did say he kind of had an idea that his calling would change, but he thought starting a new job might change things. He was wrong. After the first initial shock, and a little whining, we have decided this is such a great blessing and protection for Dustin. The environment at work isn't ideal. Yes we live in UT, but unfortunately there is a lot of swearing and crude behavior in this profession. I was worried, and warned at the spouses briefing, this could come home with him. We feel by Dustin having this calling it gives him a...

It's official!! Dustin graduated from the academy yesterday, Oct. 21st. We are so excited for him. He is a little nervous to start a whole new career, but I know he'll do fine. Proof? How about this: He won the Outstanding Achiever's Award for his class. To figure out who would win this award they took all their scores in EVERY category and averaged them out. He won! I'm so proud of him, but not surprised. He always excels at everything he does! I had a spouse's course (briefing in police talk). It was helpful and informing. They just help you to understand that your spouse will change in their new profession. To be aware and educate us how to help with everything they will be experiencing. I had to laugh when they mentioned our husband's will start wanting to be in control of everything. I thought, huh? Been there done that, still doing it! Guess he was always meant to be a cop. The kids were so proud too! I can't leave them out. Kate kept informing EVERYBO...

I've been wanting to get caught up on my strides toward a life without fear. However, time is so limited lately, and interruptions are unending. It doesn't quite cooperate with me. When I decided to take the steps of changing what needs to be changed and becoming who I wanted to be, I recognized that it wouldn't happen over night. I first had to admit to myself and identify my weaknesses. And, of course, I chose to start with those simple daily annoyances, like fruit. I don't know why I chose that first. Maybe the teasing and strange looks I always got when someone found out about my dislike for it? Maybe something deeper. I, like maybe some of you, have a tendency to let others "take the wheel." I'm pretty laid back and easy going. Happy just to be on this journey, enjoying the scenery, content watching others take opportunities to better themselves. Well, for the first time in EVER , I want to drive! Fruit is just the tip of the iceberg! The next thing o...

Grace was baptized on October 10, 2009. She was so excited. We started getting a countdown at 5 days. She would wake up and say, "Only __ days until I'm baptized." I was happy that she was so excited. We had many family members in attendance. We missed those who weren't there, but know and understand traveling is hard (been there done that). My mom, grandma, and sisters,Robyn & Lea Ann and her 5 boys, came up from Las Vegas. Dustin's parents, and brother and sisters, Spencer, Wendy, Taryn, and Shandi and their families were there as well. Our friends Matt and Camille were there too and her church leaders! Grace was so giggly in the font. She said she felt like she was going to float away. She only had to be "dunked" once, she did it perfect. It was neat to be there right after she was baptized. When the boys have done it, Dustin was the one to help them after. It was fun to be the one to help her and talk about her experience. I told her how lucky sh...

Today I was making brownies for the kids. They always like to help, so I let them. This time Kate and Bec were helping me. I had put everything in and Kate whispered, "Mom, what's the secret ingredient?" I asked, "Oh, do we need one?" She nodded her head yes. So I thought for a moment and said, "Love. Love is our secret ingredient. I'm going to put some in." I started blowing kisses into the batter and said, "Would you each like to add some love to our brownies?" They giggled with excitement and began blowing kisses too. We poured the batter into the pan and Kate said, "Mom, this is our secret. We can't let anyone know that we put love into the brownies, okay?" I agreed. I wouldn't dare spoil that surprise! I'm sure they'll be the BEST brownies ever!

Just thought you all should know that this: does NOT equal this: I have started another change in my life. Three weeks ago I started the HCG hormoane diet. I am almost done. I think it went really well. I had a goal to lose 15 pounds, but in the end only lost 10. I was a little bummed. I plan to work real hard and get the other 20 off. It did instill some good habits for me. I don't eat past six and don't crave much junk anymore ( Is till crave Doritos though, melba toast just ain't cuttin' it). I didn't exercise while on this diet, so I need to get back into the habit. I was running at 6 in the morning and plan to start back up on Monday. This was a hard change for me. I love food! Well, junk food anyway. I will say I learned that when I get stressed, I turn to my pantry for what can give me those instant "feel goods." I'm working at turning my attention to something else in moments of crisis. I'm getting better at relaxing and just really thinkin...

Lately, my brain has been swirling around a few things. One has been fear. I've been thinking of the consequences in allowing our fears to hold us back from the one thing we need the most to become better: CHANGE. This part of life is where I feel we learn the most and stretch ourselves to become better. I believe change, if good, is always beneficial. I have been focusing on one little thing at a time, changing something in my life that needs changing. The first item on my checklist you might find a little bizarre. FRUIT. I have decided to overcome my fear of fruit. Ever since I was a little girl I have had this strange dislike for the food that comes from trees. I'm not fond of their textures and to be honest many of the flavors. I started this in the summer. It started with one little grape. Dustin inspected it to make sure it would be a good one. I had a small gathering to witness this event in my life. My friends Camille and Maria were there, along with my husband and chil...

I can't believe this month is over! It flew by. I realized this when I pulled out my Ensign to go visiting teaching yesterday. (yeah I waited to the last minute, I know) I hadn't even opened it. It was so new and pretty. I usually do really well to at least read a few articles out of it, but this month only the VT message. I guess I shouldn't be surprised, after all we did celebrate 3 birthdays this month. CRAZY! Aaron turned 10 on the 2nd, Becca was 4 on the 13th, and Grace 8 on the 18th. I will have to post some birthday pictures. It's not fair that they grow up so quickly. We pulled out the home videos to put them onto DVDs and I couldn't believe how little my kids were. You don't realize it when you see them everyday of their life. It made me really sad! They need to be little again so I can enjoy it more. I was so busy living life, I didn't take a minute to relax and savor those little moments. They way they eat, laugh, and talk. To hear Ryan talk when ...

My daughter, Becca, has a knack for saying what is exactly on her mind. I guess I was being a little too ornery the other day. She was getting in trouble all day long and I had run out of patience. I yelled something at her, I don't recall what it was. It made her sad enough that she turned to me with a big frown and tears in her eyes and she blurted out, "Mom, we need to get rid of you! You're not a nice mom!" Yeah, I felt horrible, but she was being really naughty. I know I didn't say anything terrible to her, but I felt bad that her feelings were hurt. I think the saddest part is if I really don't remember why she got in trouble in the first place, was it really that big of deal? So, I'm working on it. I'm trying to be a little more kind and careful of what I say. I'm thankful for a little 4 year old who taught me that!

There is nothing like watching 4 and 5 year olds playing the american past time of baseball! Kate and Becca are having a blast! At times the dirt is more interesting, but they are getting better at paying attention to the batter and the ball. It is fun to watch all the kids hoard after the ball, the one victorious emerging from the pile doing a dance because he/she got it. They are so happy they forget to throw it to first base. While my girls are the only girls on the team, they are accepted by the boys and have made little t-ball buddies. It is fun to see them learn and grow in different ways. They are learning sportsmaship and how to have fun. They have some very patient coaches. Becca walked up to one of them and said. "Gangstas are bad." (they do look a little gangterish, after all we are on the west side) They lauged and thought she was funny. I was a little scared as to what they thought these VERY white folks teach their kids at home. So, she has learned when it is ap...

just a busy mom. Since Dustin got on with Sandy and started the academy, life has been CRAZY. My life is so full of stress. I have gained 10 lbs as proof! Dustin has lost 11! I guess he thought I could use them!!! I'm workin' at getting them off, but they like where they are at. I started watching Dustin's sister's 2 kids to help with the pay cut. The kids are all off track right now, so on a given day I have 9 rowdy, full of energy kids running around. Luckily they all get alnog, for the most part. Everyone has their days, Becca more than anyone. I think she's feeling a little lost in the chaos, just like her mom! I have so much I would love to blog about, but lack the time. Hopefully life will get back to normal. October 5th all the older kids go back to school. Any ideas how to hit my goal of losing 30 lbs? I think the stress is sinking me. I want to take a cruise in May, but the deal was that I lose my 30 lbs ( I made the deal with Dust, he's not demanding I...

that they once were inseparable and REALLY liked each other. They all have their own beds. I don't know why they choose to squish all together. I guess I'm weird, I like my space!! (do you notice the wall paper in the girl's room? Becca had a tearing fest. That and one corner is all that's left of the blue-check wall paper. Looks like another project for Dustin)

I'm sure you all can recall a family that was TROUBLE during church. You know, the ones with LOUD, DISRESPECTFUL, UNRULY children. I felt that was my family today. In sacrament meeting Becca was so loud. She started 5 minutes before church did. We have the same rule every week. They can pull out coloring books and activities, but only after the deacons have been excused to sit with their families. She decided she couldn't wait that long. She got the books anyway. She found the crayons and started coloring. I tried reasoning with her, but she won. She kept coloring and singing. Not to mention the chomping fest her and Kate were having with the gum in their mouths. Dustin and I were sitting in Gospel Doctrine when the door opened. It was Kate and her primary teacher. She was holding Kate and her shoes. She looked like I do sometimes. Her face was saying, "Help me!" Apparently Kate thought the floor was more inviting than the chairs today. She was doing somersaults acros...

On August 15th Dustin's dad was able to receive his endowment in the Jordan River Temple! It was such a nice session. It was nice to be able to witness this important occasion. I am so happy for him and his family. Dustin's birthday was the following day. He got a few gifts, but I think was the best birthday gift of all! On September 9th, their 37th wedding anniversary, they will be sealed for time and all eternity!

Through the summer I have had my older kids enrolled in swimming. I realized when my 11 year-old couldn't swim and would be expected to in scouts, it was time to let go of my maternal fear inside and let them do it. They all started out at level 1. Ryan and Aaron are level 4 swimmers and Grace is at 3b. It was a test for me to sit and watch my kids learn to swim! I was never afraid of the water, but once I had children a sense of panic struck me anytime my kids stepped near water! (it happens with so many other things too, what is this crazy thing? I would really like to know) Watching them tread water and go off the diving board were torture for me. I was shaking the first time and had to turn away. The next time I told myself I was being ridiculous and forced myself to calm down and watch. Grace struggled in 3a. The fear of going in 12ft really stopped her progression. They had the sweetest teacher and he worked and worked with her. He even gave her a couple of private lessons fr...

This morning me, Dustin, Ryan, and Aaron had the privilege of taking part in the dedication of the Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple. What a neat experience! I was really excited to have my boys be part of it. We were not able to be in the actual Temple. Way too many members in UT! They broadcast it to our stake centers, they become an extension of the Temple. I was a little bummed at first, I thought it might not be as neat, boy was I wrong. It just goes to show that a Holy Place can be anywhere where the followers of our Savior gather. This was my 2nd Temple dedication. When I was 12, I was able to take part in the dedication of the Las Vegas Temple. Although I don't recall much of it, I do remember sitting with my family in a sealing room (I think, mom help me out) and catching a glimpse of men in white walking by and waving at me. I had turned around at the right moment to see them. I said, "Mom, Dad I saw the prophet and he waved at me!" The prophet would have been Ezra T...

I have had the busiest month ever! I wish I had time to fill you all in, but I don't. I will try to update this soon! Why is it that a mother's work is never done? I need a break! I plan on going to Time Out for Women next month! I so desperately need a time out!

was a bag of Kix and a yellow balloon. Funny girl.

One of the cons of having year-round school is the short summer breaks. Don't get me wrong I absolutely L.O.V.E them, but I feel like they never got a true break from school. I planned to do LOTS of fun things during their time off, and we did, but not as much as I wanted. We spent the time mostly going swimming. I decided this year to forget how I looked in a swimming suit and just enjoy time with my kids. I got a membership for our rec center and we spent a lot of days at the pool. And on the bright side, I did get a pretty good tan, even my legs are dark again! Almost as dark as they were in Vegas! Impressed? Me too! I attempted some projects, but all they wanted to do was play with each other. Rather than hearing them complain the whole time, I decided to let them play. We did manage to get half a paper mache project done. And they invented their own game. Oh well. Last week my kids started back to school. Ryan is now in 6Th grade, Aaron is in 4Th, Grace in 2ND, and my little K...