December 31, 2010-The End Of The Year....

To be honest, I can't decide if I'm happy to see this year go or not. There have been some wonderful, amazing, life-changing moments that have taken place during 2010...moments I have waited for and looked forward to my whole life.


If I am being completely honest, there are also some portions of this year that have felt like "the perfect storm". As much as I have been sad, uncomfortable and downright discouraged during these times, I am grateful for the love and support of wonderful family members, friends and loved ones who have paddled along side me and even at times told me to "stop it"! You have helped me keep my chin up and I will forever be grateful. I am also grateful for the comfort and companionship of my Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ; I have learned to rely on them more and when I didn't think I had any strength left, I have known that I was being supported by my Father In Heaven and Savior, Jesus Christ. I've learned to look to them for help and guidance.
This has definitely been a year of learning - and in many ways, it's not over yet. But here's to 2010 - thanks for all the amazing ups and downs and to 2011 I say "welcome"!

Dear Taylor....

Dear Taylor...
In our house you are a heroine - which I don't mind at all, because you seem to be a teenager with substance and a good head on her shoulders. Coming from a mom, that's saying a lot.
I also enjoy, and dare I even say 'admire', how you seem to be able to take your irritation out by writing hit songs about the offenders. I think I have some material for you - in fact, maybe enough for a new hit album.
Call me if you're interested....

December 8, 2010- A Few Of My Favorite Things....

*I love hearing "P" sing - it doesn't matter if she sings in a choir, duet or solo...she's got an amazing voice and I love hearing her sing. Her CAHS choir concert last week was really good. *I have a soft spot for high school sports. We went to the VHS game against Mira Mesa for the CIF finals. It was fun, fun, fun and cold, cold, cold! Okay, cold by California standards. I wore a turtle-neck, jacket, scarf, gloves, hat and pea-coat. I may have overreacted to the cool evening a little bit. *The other day I was with "P" and "B"; they reminded me about a time several years ago when two of my sisters from Utah mysteriously showed up at my door one night. This has to be one of my all-time favorite memories. *For FHE the other day, we did a crazy video for "R"; I remember when we did the same thing for "S" when he was in the mission field. For some reason, these silly videos always put a smile on my face. Of course, if I mysteriously find it on you-tube someday, it won't seem quite so funny. *"P" got me hooked on "Gilmore Girls". I wish it was still on tv - Rory and Loralie bear a strong resemblance to "B", "P" and me. I don't know what that says about us.... *Notto imply that my life is all about tv similarities, myall-time favorite sitcom "Modern Family" always puts a smile on my face. Can't wait to see you tonight, Claire and Phil. Who needs real friends? haha.... *"P" got her driving permit. I remember what an exciting time that was...I'm excited for her. However, I definitely wish I bought stock in Tylenol PM. Being the parent of a teenager driver isn't easy. *"B" announced that she's going to follow in "R's" footsteps and is going to try out for the school basketball team. HOW FUN IS THAT!! I love it!! *14 days until "S" and "E" come and stay for Christmas...I can't wait. *17 days until we get to hear the voice of our beautiful Argentinian missionary...can't wait for that either.