The Sweet Life

2011-11-26T16:52:00.001-08:00

The holiday season for our family gets harder every year. It seems like our family is somewhat jinxed when it comes to this time of the year. It all started when my mom passed away on Christmas Eve in 2005. Our beloved cat Usdi also passed away a few days before that. Since then we usually have some kind of trial right around this time of year.
Well, this year is no different. Tim's grandpa, Don Abbott, passed away yesterday 11/25/11. He has been sick with Alzheimers and was recently diagnosed with throat cancer. He was 84. I know it was a sweet reunion for him to see his daughter again and his mom and many other loved ones. . He has been a pillar of strength in the lives of his family. A true family patriarch. We will certainly miss him. He was married to his sweetheart for 64 years. I can't imagine how hard this is for her.
I know that the holiday season is hard for a lot of people. I know we aren't alone when it comes to missing those that we love. It just makes it hard to feel any Christmas spirit. I don't want to dread the holidays but I do. I do my best to make it a special time of year for my son. I don't want him to feel the sadness.
Last year, Christmas was only 7 days after Tim's mom passed away and I think we were all kind of still in shock. I barely remember anything about it. This year, the loss will be felt even more I think.

This is a picture of Blake and Tim's grandpa this year on Halloween. That smile just says it all.

2011-11-26T16:34:00.001-08:00

I don't think I can even begin to catch up on the months and months that I didn't blog. But for posterity's sake I want to note in my blog that we lost one incredible lady on December 18, 2010. Blake's grandma, Pamela Marie Buerke passed away. She had been sick for many years and her poor little body just couldn't take it anymore. It has been very hard learning to live without her in the last year. She was a HUGE part of our lives and we look forward to the day we will see her again.

I'm baaacckkk....

2011-08-13T21:39:00.000-07:00

Well now, I guess it's been a loooooong time. I can't believe I haven't posted in over a year. At some point I will try to catch up with the big things that have happened but for now we'll just start with where we are now.

Blake is now 8 years old and was baptized last December. He will be starting 3rd grade in a few short weeks. This summer zipped by so fast. I can't even believe. I've been in denial I think because just last night, I finally bought all the school supplies.

I have been really busy at work this summer. I've put in a LOT of 50 hour work weeks. I guess that would help explain the summer zipping by to some degree. I have been called into young womens for the first time. I am the second counselor in the presidency. I am over the beehives. I've been in since early April. I'm really enjoying it. The girls are so awesome. (more about that later)

Not much has changed for the hubby. He just turned 40. I'm next so I can't make fun of him too much. We have decided to have a joint birthday party at the end of August. We're having it at his Aunt Kathy's house out in country. It should be a lot of fun.

I am leaving this coming Tuesday to go to Girls Camp with the young women. Laura finally talked me into going. I am going to be a cabin mom. It's the first time I've ever been so I'm excited. I hope it all goes well.

I hope to be able to get things caught up here. There has been happiness and there has been much sorrow but such is life I suppose.

More later.

First Field Trip

2010-06-17T21:38:00.000-07:00

In May Blake went on his first field trip with the school. He was very excited. Of course, I had to take the day off and go with him. I live for this stuff. Blake couldn't wait to ride the bus. When you live 3 houses down from the school, you don't get many chances to ride the bus. It was a like a flashback for me. I haven't been on a school bus since high school.

We went to Jackson Bottom Wetlands. I drive by this every day and we had never been there. It's a great place. We went on a hike.

When we got back we had lunch and then the they had several learning stations that the kids rotated through.

Here they learned all about bats and their amazing hearing.

Then they learned all about the eagles that live in the wetland trees and how amazing their eyesight is.

It was a fun trip. We had one "oh my gosh" moment when I discovered that Blake had decided to bring one of his "aquatic" frogs to see his little friends at the wetlands. What Blake didn't realize is that his aquatic frog couldn't really live outside water and certainly not in his pocket all morning. It was really sad once he realized that the frog wasn't "sleeping" in his pocket. It was a hard lesson that he learned that day and especially at night once the gravity of it set in. He had this frog for about 2 years and it really crushed him when he realized what he had done. Uggh, hard lessons.

Mothers Day, Anniversary and Camping

2010-05-18T20:26:00.000-07:00

Well obviously I have some catching up to do here. I know I've said this a million times but I truly can't believe how fast time flies. It's been a month since my last post.

May has been a busy month . First was Mothers Day. My boys started my day off with a wonderful breakfast in bed. I had french toast and scrambled eggs and orange juice. The best part was that my son helped to make it and then he ate with me in bed.

Blake brought home a cute card from school and bought me a new giant water jug. Hubby bought me a beautiful hanging fuchsia. Okay, so maybe I bought it but it still counts..lol I was treated like a queen all day. I am so blessed to be Blake's mom. I'll never be able to sufficiently thank my Heavenly Father for sending this amazing spirit to me. I must also thank his birth mom for being selfless enough to give us the ultimate gift.

Next was our anniversary. It's been 17 years. We were barely 21 when we got married. We truly have grown up together. It hasn't always been easy but I would do it all over again. He is my best friend. I know that even if the whole world was against me, I could come home and he would be there for me. No one has ever or will ever love me like he does. He's a great man and wonderful father. I look forward to eternity. We celebrated by having Blake spend the night with grandma and going to see a movie. After the movie we weren't very hungry so we went to Sonic and got Cherry lime-aids. It was a great evening.
Last but certainly not least, we just got home yesterday from our first camping trip of the season. We went to Beverly Beach State Park which is just North of Newport. We stayed 3 nights and went with 2 families that we really enjoy spending time with. The weather was perfect. No rain and sun every day. It did get a little chilly here and there but that made for some awesome campfire moments.

Home sweet yurt. Many years ago we used to tent camp and then we stumbled upon these and have never looked back. They are awesome.

Here are most of the kids getting ready for some fun.

Here is Blake chasing the waves.

Best friends. We're sad that these guys will be moving so it was nice to get to spend time with them before they go.

There was a great hill behind us that was just begging to be climbed. So off they all go.

Rayden and Blake are halfway at this point.

They made it to the top. That is Colin up there with them. He followed them up to make sure no one fell.

Apparently he also came in very handy for a ride back down..lol

Here's Mindy and Bella trying to stay out of the campfire smoke.

We had a silly string war.

Jaycine and Colin. Aren't they so cute!

They had some awesome trees in the park that the kids loved to climb. This one was right behind the yurt so the kids spent lots of time up in it.

Garrett made some delicious peach cobbler in the dutch oven.

Luxating Patella

2010-04-19T19:34:00.000-07:00

That is just a fancy name for a kneecap that won't stay in place. Our dog Lexie, who will be 2 in June had this problem in both of her back legs. Genetics are probably to blame thanks to the bow legs from the pug side of her. She had surgery last Friday to fix them both. She is home now. I know that some would say "she's just a dog" blah blah and to that's okay if people feel that way but I don't so be nice if you decide to comment.

She is a part of our family. Would I ever put her over the human members of my family? No. But, if there is something I can do then I will. She loves our family unconditionally and makes us laugh daily.

Hopefully in 4 to 6 weeks she'll be as good as new.

Both legs look like this one.

Easter

2010-04-07T21:11:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine showed me a picture of her nieces that live in Florida. They were celebrating Easter and dressed in little sun dresses and no shoes. And get this, they were outside. Can you even imagine? I wonder what that would be like?

Living in Oregon, we may never know. It was a typical cool and rainy Easter. It was also General Conference for our church. I can't remember this happening since I joined the church 8 years ago.
8 years, I can't believe I've been a member 8 years but I digress. Tim had to work Saturday so it was a pretty low key day. Blake and I watched conference then when dad got home he was back out the door to the priesthood session. Blake and I worked a little on coloring and decorating eggs and then watched The Testaments. It was a nice relaxing evening.

Sunday morning we went to a friends house to watch the morning session of conference and then enjoyed a fabulous brunch complete with homemade cinnamon rolls. Delicious. After the morning session, we headed out to deliver some tulips to the 2 great grandmas and grandma. When we got home I got busy cooking dinner. We had ham, scalloped potatoes and green bean casserole. It was delicious and we were so full that we didn't have room for the homemade peach pie and ice cream. It was the first time we have had a dinner with just our family for a holiday and it was really great. We did a lesson during dinner using plastic eggs and scriptures to talk about the days leading up to Jesus Christ being crucified and then his triumphant rise from the grave to live again. It was great. I think Blake actually started to get that Easter isn't really about the bunnies and the chocolate.

I had such a nice weekend that I didn't even realize until it was over that I had failed to take a single picture. Sometimes, I am just too busy living to remember to record it.

Sidenote: I am feeling much better now. It seems the cyst on my ovary has either gone away or chilled out. HOORAY!

Kaiser Medical Facility Tour

2010-03-28T14:58:00.000-07:00

Alternate post title "Let's give the girl the run around for 8 hours while she is in pain"

It's probably wrong for me to talk badly about the company that I work but....

Yesterday morning I woke up with significant lower abdominal pain. This was about 630am. I kept hoping that it would just go away but no luck. So about 3pm, I had had enough. I called the advise nurse. She asked me a bunch of questions and then suggested that I go to the urgent care in Beaverton, So we dropped Blake off at grandmas and headed over. They did some lab work and I saw the doctor. My CBC was elevated and I had a slight fever. This made the doctor think that maybe it was my appendix . She wanted me to have a CT scan but they didn't have that at the Beaverton Office. So off we went to the Kaiser Interstate campus in Portland. We found the spot and they were ready for me. I had to drink a LOT of nasty stuff and after about an hour, I got an IV and they did a contrast CT. I do have to say that the Radiologist read it fairly quickly and then some doctor wanted to talk to me on the phone.

He said that my appendix was fine but I had enlarged lymph nodes on the right side and a good sized cyst on left ovary. This explained the pain but he wanted me to have a few more tests done. He sent me down to the Urgent Care in the same building. This was close to 8pm and so the urgent care didn't want to take me because they closed at 830pm. I then had to go to Kaiser Sunnyside Urgent care which is in Clackamas. By the time we got there, I had about had it. I was tired and hurting and frustrated that I kept getting the run around.

Luckily, they were ready for me at the ER and they were all very nice and very sorry that I had been put through the ringer. The doctor gave me pain medication. He was surprised that no one had offered me any all day. They then did a "not so fun" ultrasound to make sure that the cyst hadn't cut off the blood supply to my ovary. Finally at about midnight ish, they sent me home with a RX for pain meds. We got home about 1am.

Now I am supposed to take it easy for a few days and control the pain. The cyst will either burst (which I understand will be just delightful) or it will be reabsorbed.

It was a long day but I'm thankful it wasn't something more serious. It's painful but with a little help from my friend Percocet I will survive.

Sunshine on my shoulder

2010-03-07T16:36:00.001-08:00

makes me happy. It has been a truly beautiful weekend and while I know the sun won't last because it's technically still winter, I am enjoying it just the same.

Well, the laptop is working again. Sort of. We got it back and just a few days later, Internet explorer stopped working. I have literally spent hours working with the help people but it's still not working. I was able to download Mozilla on the desktop computer and then upload it here and voila, we have Internet access again. The computer still has major issues but it's limping along.

It's been awhile since I posted. I'm trying to remember all the things that have happened. Pretty much, we just going to work or school and then doing our thing at night and then was and repeat.

We painted and redecorated Blake's bedroom which took a few Saturdays but I love the way it turned. I don't have the pictures downloaded on here but will do that and post pictures soon.

We have been in a tough stage with Blake lately. He's been having trouble telling the truth which is so frustrating. It's been no fun for any of us as we have to take privileges away and institute punishments. We just keep hoping that if we stick to our guns he'll figure it out that he gets in WAY more trouble when he lies then when he tells the truth.

We also started seeing a counselor mostly for Blake but we think it will benefit the whole family. He is a very smart kid but has a LOT of trouble sitting still and focusing in school. It's also an issue at church and if we don't try to get some help, we are worried that his smarts will only take him so far and he'll start to fall behind. He also has issues with impulse control and respecting the "space bubble" that people have and sometimes need.

On the flip side, he is a funny, loving and outgoing kid that tries his best to cooperate. No-one thinks that he's doing anything wrong on purpose or out of malice.

Here is one example of the lying and sneakiness. He got a "paw pause" in school. He has gotten these before. They get them when they do something that isn't' safe, responsible or respectful. They are supposed to bring home the paper for the parent to see and we sign it and he takes it back in. Well, Blake decided he would just sign his dads name and turn it back in. Of course the teacher could tell right away and called us. This child is only 7 years old and it's just amazes me that he even thought of this. I think I should be afraid, very afraid. We have to get a handle on this before he gets to the teens years.

That's all that I can think of for now. I will get some pics downloaded and get some on here soon.

**Sidenote: It's been a struggle but I have lost 14 pounds since starting my new lifestyle change. Just need to keep it up and someday I will get where I'm going.

Missing my blog

2010-02-03T21:20:00.001-08:00

Our laptop has been down AGAIN for the last month so Internet surfing has mainly been on my IPOD touch. Don't get me wrong, I totally love my new toy but I don't have the patience to post the length of a blog post on it. The buttons are to small etc etc.

Anywhoo, we have just been busy with life. The laptop is getting fixed by Toshiba AGAIN so we should have it back in the next week or two. I'll get caught up with our goings on at that time.

This weekend, I am heading to the beach with just my honey. No dog, no child. Whatever will we do? lol We haven't taken a little time away since Blake was about 3 years old so we're due.

Hope all is well with my bloggy buddies. I have been trying to keep up with you on my little bitty screen but forgive me if I've missed something.

If at first you don't succeed, try try again...

2010-01-11T19:35:00.000-08:00

and again...and again....

I know that it's pretty cliche to start the year off with a goal of loosing weight but that's the plan. I'm not calling it a diet. I'm calling it a lifestyle change. My friend Paula and I have been walking for awhile but at the beginning of December we got off track due to a loss in her family and the holidays. We are back on track and trying to walk 45 to 50 mins 6 days a week.

I have stocked up on healthy veggies and fruits and lean meats. Any remaining Christmas goodies have been given away. If there is no junk in the house, I can't eat it.

My friend Paula, her friend April and I are also having a friendly competition. The first one to loose 50 pounds wins. The other 2 have to take the winner jeans shopping and buy her a new pair of jeans. I'm not super competitive but it's a good motivator.

My real goal is to be healthier at whatever weight that is.

Our little missionary

2009-12-28T09:58:00.000-08:00

So, we have talked to Blake about being a missionary someday and most of the time he says "No way" Lately he's getting more okay with the idea. He's such a wiggily kid that we often wonder if he gets anything at all out of church.

Well, last week we found out that he indeed is getting something out of church. His babysitter has a 3 year old daughter that Blake has grown to love and they often act like brother and sister. My sitter does not take her children to church or talk to them about God unless they ask her a question. It's a long story as to why this is but I digress.

My sitter Paula said that her aunt or someone had sent a Christmas Book to Victoria (the 3 year old) Blake saw the book and asked Victoria if she'd like him to read it to her. As he's reading the story of Christs birth to her she says "Blake, who is Jesus?" Blake says "Victoria, do you not know who Jesus is?" He starts to tell her about Jesus and the story of his birth. Of course this was in 7 year old terms. When he was done Victoria said "Blake, is this true" He said "Every word of it"

When we talked about this later, we pointed out that he was being a missionary. Maybe there is hope after all.

Christmas memories

2009-12-26T09:08:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe another Christmas has come and gone. The years seem to be really flying by as I get older. Christmas Eve marked 4 years since my mom passed away. I'm so thankful to know I will see her again someday. She left me with some very sweet memories until then.

We had a wonderful Christmas. Good food, great family, wonderful memories, I couldn't ask for more. Here are some pictures from Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Santa stopped by to visit. Blake is on to the fact that it wasn't the real Santa. He said "Mom, I know that was just one of Santa's helpers" "Santa is busy delivering presents tonight" I think it's the beginning of the end of the magic of Santa. I hope we get a couple more years out of it.

My niece and nephew.

Blake's haul from Santa. This year we didn't buy presents for each other. We adopted a family instead. It was fun to shop for them together and then imagine their faces as they opened the presents yesterday. We don't know who they were and vise verse. We were hoping to teach Blake that it's more about giving then receiving.

His grandma got Blake a digital camera. He's ready to take some pictures. Well, once we get some AAA batteries.

The cousins.

Blake was in lego heaven. He has spent hours building his new sets. This is my favorite toy for him and I'm glad he likes them so much. It's much better than sitting in front of the TV playing a video game.

Blake in the aftermath. The slinky never goes out of style.

Life is good!

Oh Chirstmas Tree Part 2

2009-12-13T19:10:00.000-08:00

It took a few days but the tree is finally decorated. Now I need to get my cards out and wrap presents and...and..and...lol I refuse to get stressed about what is left to do. I am determined to slow down this year and enjoy the spirit of the season.

Oh Christmas Tree

2009-12-11T05:26:00.001-08:00

We have lived in Oregon for 16 1/2 years and we have never gone and cut down our Christmas tree. We've gone to the same lot all these years. But this week we changed that. We decided to find a tree farm and go for it. I'm so glad that we did. We had so much fun. We drove out past the golf course and just kept going until we found one that looked like it was open.

The property was beautiful. It was up high and had a fantastic view. The ground was frozen solid so no mud. It was freezing cold but that just added to the trip. We found the right one right away.

Here is it is......

Our friends came with us.

Erik, Blake and Laura. Can you hear Laura's teeth chattering.

Looks like we have a new tradition.

Elves, Kelley style

2009-11-29T18:11:00.000-08:00

I saw this on my friend Yvonnes blog and thought it was cute. My son laughs everytime he watches it.

Thankful

2009-11-26T07:51:00.000-08:00

Today is Thanksgiving. I have so much to be thankful for.

First of all, I am thankful to have the Gospel in my life. It's hard to remember the person I was prior to joining The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Days Saints. I am thankful for the knowledge and direction it has given my life and now my families life. I was happy before I joined the church but now I know what true happiness and joy is.

I am so thankful for my family. For a long time I thought that I would never get to be a mother but Heavenly Father sent me Blake. We all have so much fun together. I love these boys. My in-laws have been so good to me. They took me right in and treat me as one of their own. I do miss my parents but I know that I will see them again.

I am also thankful for good friends. I am blessed to have a handful that have been there for me through thick and thin. They have become my family.

So, on this day of gratitude, I am so thankful.

Birthday boy

2009-11-18T17:31:00.000-08:00

Dear Blake,

It's hard for me to believe that it's been 7 years since you came into my life. I never knew how deeply I could love until I met you. I could go on and on about how much joy you have brought into my life but probably by the time you read this, you'll be too big for all the mushy stuff. So, I'll just tell you a little bit about your 7 year old self.

You are such a funny boy. Always ready with a laugh. You make me laugh every single day. You are very smart and have become quite a good reader. You are liking 1st grade quite a bit. I think it's mostly because of the 2 recesses. You're learning to add and subtract. The other day you said that "math, math, math" was all your teacher wanted to talk about. You are a very good friend and love to have play dates.

You never stop moving. Since you were little your theory has been that you can't fall asleep if you are running. It often looks as though you aren't paying attention but I'm learning that even when you are firing on all cylinders, you are hearing and absorbing what is said.

You love to spend time with your grandma and Papa and they love to spend time with you. I love the relationship you have with them.

Your dad and I are so thankful every day that Heavenly Father blessed us with your sweet spirit. You are an amazing kid.

Love you forever,

Mommy

Here you are the night of your Birthday party chiling out with your friends.

Playing the Wii

With your grandma at Red Robyn

Reading your card

Your Birthday party at Out of this World pizza.

Rocket man

Monkeys on the wall

Fall Fun

2009-11-16T18:10:00.000-08:00

Well, it's a good thing I left myself a note or I would have forgotten some of the things I wanted to blog about. We have the laptop back so hopefully I won't be such a blogger slacker.

Here's a few pics of the fun we've had this fall.

We went to a great Halloween party this year. It's been a long time since I dressed up.

Here I am as the Princess

and here with my pea..lol

Spooky Pumpkins

Lexie trying hard to get that pumpkin

Bat cousins having fun

Some serious concentration

Papa showing the boys how it's done

Blake posing in the hay

My boys (even if one of them is wearing a dress)

Making his pick

All about the loot!

This might be animal abuse but oh we had fun trick or treating with her.

Boba Fett and Optimus

Still here

2009-10-27T16:24:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post to let you (all 3 of you) know that I'm still here. I've just been really busy lately. Also, our laptop died and so it's not as convenient to be on the computer as it used to be. I promise to get caught up later. I have a lot to blog about.

I'm going to make a list to remind me to blog about

1) the pumpkin patch
2) pumpkin carving
3) Halloween party
4) My birthday
5) Primary program

I'm woefully behind in my blog reading but some day I will get caught up.

Have you done any good in the world today

2009-10-04T18:23:00.000-07:00

Another great general conference has come and gone. I always feel so blessed to be able to listen to the inspired leaders of our church.

We watched Saturday conference here at home (hooray for BYU TV). This morning we were invited over to the Newberry's again for conference and a wonderful brunch. This is our second time getting to join in their tradition of Sunday Conference Brunch. Lots of great food , great talks and great company.

Several of the talks really spoke to me but my favorite was by President Monson. He talked about service. He talked about a man that would always ask each member of his family nightly what they had done to make someone else's life better that day. He told us of many letters he received in response to his request that people serve each other for his birthday. Some of the examples were so sweet.

It really made me realize how wrapped up I get in my own crazy busy life and how I need to pause the remember what is really important. I am going to start asking myself each day "Have I done any good in the world today?" I hope the answer is always yes.

First day of school and scissors gone bad

2009-10-03T08:21:00.000-07:00

Blake started school on the 8th of September. (Yeah, I'm late) He's a big 1st grader now. This is the first time he's gone to school all day. I was worried it might be a bit much for him but he's really loving it.

We were hoping to get his kindergarden teacher Mrs. Bayley because she moved up to 1st grade but he got Mrs. Ahlberg instead. At first I was a little disappointed but after talking to her a few times, I think we are really going to like her. Blake seems to like her a lot. He wasn't disappointed at all.

Sadly, he decided to try out his new scissor skills on his hair. Yep, he took a chunck of his hair out right in the front. I thought we had passed the age where this could happen and that we had dodged this particular typical childhood episode. Apparently he is just a late bloomer.

Oh yeah, did I mention that school pictures will be taken on the 20th? Maybe I should just buzz it.

Takes a lickin and keeps on tickin

2009-09-28T21:49:00.000-07:00

It's starting to feel like fall and I'm loving it. The cooler weather makes me think of spice candles, pumpkins, chili, stew, sweaters and all the things I love about fall.

But enough about the weather.

I'm really posting to say that Blake had his follow up with the cardiologist and he passed with flying colors. Everything looks great! He doesn't have to go back for 3 more years. I always hold my breath a little while they are doing the echo-cardiogram and today was no different. So glad that all is well and he doesn't even have that much of a murmur anymore.

Speaking of the word murmur, my son laughs every time someone says this word. This all started when reading scriptures with him one night. We were reading a passage that talked a lot about murmuring and he got the giggles. Now he laughs whenever he hears it and he'll just randomly say "murmur" to make me giggle.

To blog

2009-09-24T16:27:00.000-07:00

First of all, thanks to everyone for your input on my last post. I really appreciate it.

I've decided to keep blogging and I'm going to take the advice of a few of you and mush them together. This is my blog. It's for me and my family. I am a big girl and can blog about whatever I like. I don't need to worry about who is or isn't reading it. I've never been that private of a person but I'm sure there are some things that I won't want on the world wide web. For those things, I will use my written journal. It won't be updated as often but at least I'll have a place to put my thoughts down if I don't want the whole world to see.

I like looking back over this blog and seeing the good times and even the bad. I think my child will someday as well. The good, the bad and the ugly. It all makes up this blessed life that we live.

Thanks again, I really do have some great blogging buddies out there and I love ya!

To blog or not to blog...that is the question

2009-09-18T21:30:00.000-07:00

When I first started this blog, it was to help me keep some kind of journal of life in the Kelley house. I was very faithful in the beginning and posted several times a week. I have posted a few things here and there that we were purely for having the stories down in writing. But mostly it was just things like vacations, birthdays, milestones in Blake's like, ramblings here and there etc.

Over the last couple of years I have started to taper off in my writing. From several times a week to now it's twice a month if I'm lucky. I am starting to wonder if I am doing it justice. There are only a handful of people that read my blog and most of them I either know if real life or have become close enough to that I have them as Facebook friends (facebook: a whole other story) Anywho, where was I? Oh yes, to blog or not to blog. That is the question. I do have to say that this is the longest I have ever kept any kind of journal at all. On the other hand, I really hesitate in writing some of my true feelings because of the people that I know are reading. So am I giving just a glossed over version of my family and life? I think it would be different if I had family that lived far away and read my blog but I don't and the few that I do keep in touch with, are on Facebook now.

So, do I keep the blog and just keep it like it has been? Do I go private so I can blog about some of my innermost thoughts and know that it's really more of a personal journal? I've heard that some people have both a blog like this and then a private blog where they keep their more private thoughts. If I can't keep up with one blog then I surely can't keep up with 2. I wish I were better about keeping a written journal. I truly do want my posterity to have some kind of history. I would love to have journals written by my parents through the years.

I realize that I'm rambling but hey, it's my blog and I can ramble if I want to right? If some of my family reads this in the future, they should know the real me and the real me...rambles.

Last days of summer

2009-09-03T16:22:00.000-07:00

Just home from work and I'm soooooo looking forward to a 5 day weekend. I can't believe that summer is almost at an end. Is it just me or did it go by faster than ever.

For the most part, summer was really hard this year. It started June 6th when my dear friends amazing son died in a car accident. I'm telling you that I blinked and all of June was gone. I've done my best over the months to be there for her. It's so hard to see someone you love in so much pain and you can do nothing to ease it. I mean, there is no fixing that. Sure, time does help a little but there will always be a missing piece. My family has been great. They have supported me when I probably should have been home but was there instead.

How depressing do I sound..sheesh. Don't get me wrong, we have had some fun this summer. We had some great little mini-vacations in August. I love just being with my family no matter where we are but the beach is a nice enhancement for sure.

So now, I have 5 days to get a few things done around the house, have some fun and then it's back to school. I can't believe that Blake will be a 1st grader. He's very excited to go back to school. I think it's mostly because of lunch and recess. He really enjoyed picking out a lunch box and talking about what we'll pack for lunches. Once the newness wears off, we'll see if he's still so excited.

We're talking about going to the Oregon State Fair this weekend. No firm plans but definitely some quality time is in order.

Beautiful Bandon

2009-08-26T21:48:00.001-07:00

Here are some pictures of our little Bandon vacation. If you haven't been to Bandon, you really should go. It's about 5 hours down South on the coast and it is National Geographic pretty. We camped in a Yurt at Bullards State Park which is 2 miles N of Bandon. We used to tent camp but once we tried a Yurt there was no turning back. We really had a great time and I wish we were still there. Alas, it's back to the real world. But we'll have our memories.

Here is a picture of Face Rock from a distance. Hopefully you can see why they call it that.

Blake's face in this picture sums up how we all felt about the weekend.

Here's a close up of Face Rock. Does that help?

It was really windy on the beach and a little cool so we let the boys play in the water for a bit, snapped a few shots and headed back to the warm fire at camp.

Home sweet home for a few days.

Blake's best friend was able to go with us. His dad was on his own while his wife was out of town and we ended up with a extra yurt so it worked out great. Here they are proud of their catch of the day. Yes, they were yummy.

More of the Bandon Coastline.

Sidenote: I haven't made it around to my favorite blogs lately (you know who you are) but I haven't forgotten you. I have just been super busy lately (who isn't). Don't give up on me, I'll get caught up eventually.

Sidenote number 2: Do you ever feel that the faster you go, the more behind you get? Yeah, me neither..lol

Beach Birthday

2009-08-13T18:09:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went to the beach to celebrate my sweet hubbys Birthday. In case you didn't know....I LOVE THE BEACH!!! Something about it instantly relaxes me and makes me a very happy girl. It was a great family bonding weekend.

Tim had fun opening presents.

Writing notes in the sand

We all had fun playing in the pool

Walking on the beach.

I feel very blessed to live in such a beautiful place where the Ocean is just a short drive away.

Stain remover to the rescue

2009-08-01T13:20:00.000-07:00

So, it never fails. When I wear a white shirt, I might as well be holding a target for any and all food to find it's way to the shirt. Thursday was no exception. On the way to work I ate a English muffin with my homemade Rasberry/Marionberry jam on it. Little did I know that a blob of jam fell on my shirt right by the seatbelt. I looked down and saw that the seatbelt had then proceeded to smear the jam all over my white shirt. Almost at work..what to do? I pulled out my trusty Tide stain stick. No help.

Luckily there is a Thriftway on my way to work that opens at 6am. I stopped in and bought this little thing

I sprayed it on and then took off to work thinking that I could take the shirt off in the bathroom at work and do my best to clean it. Well, I got there and started checking my emails. About an hour later I looked down and to my great surprise, all the jam had magically disappeared. It just ate it right up.

I highly recommend this product. Get some, put it in your purse and just wait for the miracles to happen.

**On a side note, we're have a fun summer and it's flying by. Heading to the beach this weekend to celebrate my sweet honey's birthday.**

Fun in the sun

2009-07-20T22:08:00.000-07:00

Boy, I'm becoming a real slacker on this blog these days. I guess I've just been busy living life and forgetting to write it down.

Last Friday I decided to take the day off. I didn't really have any plans and then Holly called and said "Let's go to the beach" Well, you never have to twist my arm to go to one of my favorite places and we were off. For those of you around here, we went to a great place about 4 miles south of Cannon Beach called "Hug Point" It's great for lounging and has some fun stuff to explore. I love spur of the moment trips like that. We had so much fun. The only thing missing was my hubby because he had to work.

We were there for about 4 hours and then had a nice dinner in Cannon Beach and came home. It was great even if I did get a sunburn on my legs and the top of my forehead. Apparently I need a lesson in how to apply sunscreen evenly.

Holly and I

Blake buried and loving it
Basking in the sun

The next day we had a primary service activity where we helped the kids plant flowers at the church. I'm pretty sure that dirt hadn't been touched since about 1976 because it was pretty hard but we got it done. We then had some great treats and played some fun games. I'm so lucky to be in primary. We have some really great kids!

Time flies

2009-07-03T07:59:00.000-07:00

It feels like I just blinked and weeks have gone by. I'm amazed that it's the 4th of July weekend already. It seems that the older I get, the faster the time goes by. I know everyone says that but it's true.

So what have we been up to? Work has been crazy. I feel like I've been running a marathon for a couple of months and I didn't train for it and they won't let me stop for a drink. But, after a long weekend working last weekend there might be a light at the end of the tunnel now. I've also been spending as much time as I can with my friend that lost her son. I never know what to say or do but I hope that just being there is helping in some way. I don't know how they will get through this but I know that we'll be there every painful step of the way with them.

Blake has been busy enjoying his summer in the babysitters new pool. It's about 3 feet deep and just right for him. He's going to be part fish and very brown by the time the summer is over. He's also been busy loosing more teeth. This is his new look.

Tim has to work most of this weekend but Blake and I will be going to the parade and then meeting up with him to go play with some fireworks at grandmas house. I'm thankful to have a few days off. I have a ton of things that need to be done around my neglected house but high on my list if just getting some much needed rest and hanging out with my favorite guys.

Till we meet again

2009-06-16T07:24:00.000-07:00

One of my closest friends lost her son late Saturday June 6th. Grant was only 18 years old when he was killed in a car accident. I got the call around 5am on Sunday the 7th. This is every mothers worst nightmare.

Our family has been blessed to consider these people family for many years. We have been able to watch Grant grow into a fine young man. This was not your average teenager. As his Uncle said "Grant's hobby was collecting friends". This kid was no respector of age, status, religious affiliation or any other social status. He always had a huge smile and huge hug for you. You always knew when Grant was in the room. There was no pretense there. If he loved you, you knew it. And he loved many. This pure joy and sincere quality was infectious. Of late, he was focused on going on a mission for our church. He had worked hard and saved all the money he needed for it. He was even counting down to the day he could turn his papers in. He is now on another mission.

While we don't understand why he was needed there and not here, we are comforted by the knowledge of where he is and that we'll see him again.

We'll miss you dude. Until we meet again.

All I want for summer is my 1 front tooth and to be able to breathe

2009-06-06T07:43:00.000-07:00

Yesterday as we waited for some prescriptions at the pharmacy, Blake pulled out his first front tooth. Both of them have been loose for a long time so it won't be long until they are both gone.

Here are a few pics The reason we were at the pharmacy was to get a whole slew of medicines for Blake. This has been the worst allergy season ever for him. In the last week his wheezing has gotten worse and worse and the inhaler was failing to do much for him. Yesterday I took him to the doctor and his allergy induced asthma is out of control. He took a breathing test that he failed miserably so they gave him a breathing treatment and then he did a little better but still not great. The doctor prescribed a oral steroid, a inhaled steroid, nose spray and more inhalers. He has to take the oral steroids for 5 days and that should get his airways opened up and then the other meds will help keep them open we hope. He sounds just awful but it's already a little better than yesterday so I'm sure he'll be fine soon. The doctor said it will probably be a month before the asthma is completely under control and then he'll be on the maintenance meds for awhile.

My dad would be proud

2009-05-31T17:08:00.000-07:00

I had no idea until last week that Blake knew how to say The Pledge of Allegiance. This is one of those things he could tell me when I ask him what he learned in school today instead of the standard " I don't know" response. Maybe my questions need to get more specific. Next week I'll ask him if he learned how to sing the star spangled banner.

My dad was a military man and he would have loved this. This one is for you dad.

Rose Festival Waterfront Village

2009-05-24T22:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we spent the afternoon at the Rose Festivals Waterfront village using the free stuff I won. We rode rides, we ate fair food, we looked at all kinds of stuff and listened to some good music along the way. The weather was perfect, not too hot with a nice breeze off the river. I was pleasantly surprised that there weren't too many people there so we didn't feel crowded.

Here is Blake and I on the big Ferris wheel. We had a wonderful view of the river and the city and the mountain. It was great. **The pics were taken with my cell phone so I didn't have to carry my big lug of a camera with me**

Here's Blake looking at a giant tortoise in the African exhibit where they have lots of animals especially snakes and reptiles.

We thought Blake would love to do this but he got up there and it kind of scared him so he didn't want to jump to high. He's a daredevil when he chooses to be.

Mr. Cool on the ferris wheel thinking he's all that.

This was Blake's favorite ride. He rode it 3 times and smiled from ear to ear the whole time.

I would definitely go again but I'd need to have coupons or free stuff again because it is spendy. It's not like carnivals that I grew up going to where you could play a game for 50 cents and ride a ride for about the same price.

Best Stake Conference ever

2009-05-22T11:17:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was our Stake Conference and we had the privilege of hearing from an Apostle of the Lord, Elder M Russell Ballard. The whole weekend was wonderful. It was the first time I have seen an Apostle in person. The spirit was so strong that I was sure you could cut it with a knife.

Saturday evening Adult session was my favorite. All the speakers felt like they were talking just to me. 2 of the speakers talked about their conversions to the church among other things. They both did a great job.

Elder Ballard was the last to speak and he talked about the 10 virgins and keeping our lamps full and ways that we could do that. The usual things came up such as prayer, family home evening, scripture study. He said that he often hears people ask why we talk about the same things all the time and he said something like "As soon as you all get those down pat, we'll move on to deeper doctrine" He talked about rededicating ourselves if some things had started to slip. One thing he mentioned was kneeling each night as a couple and thanking Heavenly Father for one more day together. Tim and I had always had family prayer but didn't really think to kneel each night, just the two of us. We hope to rectify that. I found him to be very sincere and funny. I truly felt like my lamp was filled to overflowing from the whole experience. I did get to shake his hand after the Saturday session. I told him that I would rededicate myself to those things that I have let slip.

Sidenote: I have a 4 day weekend and the weather is beautiful. Hubby has 3 of those days off with me. It's rare that we have more than Sundays off together so I'm really looking forward to some good quality family time.

Sidenote 2: I won a radio content yesterday and got 4 tickets and free ride coupons to the Waterfront Village which is part of the Rose Festival. It's a carnival/fair that is on the waterfront in Portland. We've lived here 15 years and have never gone so we're going to do that tomorrow. The prize package also included a $25 gift cert for KFC and a gift cert for 5 laps at Malibu Raceway.

21 more days

2009-05-15T18:49:00.000-07:00

That's all that is left of my son's first year of school. I can't believe the time has gone so fast. I'm amazed at how much he has learned. This is a picture from his first day. The little boy in the picture didn't know how to read.

One short school year later and now, check him out. He's a reader. It's been so cool to watch as his mind soaks it all in.

Wednesday night they had a kindergarten conference at the school where all the kinders and their family came. The kids sang a couple of really cute songs and then took us around to 9 stations that were set up to demonstrate all they have learned this year.

Here they are singing a super cute song called "Tootie Toot"

They were cracking me and themselves up.

Showing us his skills with colors and paints.

He's reading his "popcorn" words.
We've been blessed to have a great teacher this year and we're looking forward to his first year of full day school. Watch our first grade. Blake is on his way.

Random Happenings

2009-05-12T16:13:00.000-07:00

What's going on these days at the Kelley house you ask? Oh, you didn't. Well, I'll tell you anyway.

Last week was Spirit Week at school. They had pajama day, crazy hair day etc. Here's a picture of Blake on mis-match day. I think his favorite was pajama day. I've sent an email at work trying to institute pajama day Fridays. We'll see how that goes.

Mothers Day was great. The boys cooked breakfast for me and got me a pretty new locket necklace.

Tim and I celebrated our 16th Anniversary yesterday. Blake took a picture of us right before we went out on our hot date Saturday.

And last but not least, here's a picture of the stink eye you get when you keep bugging your hubby. This happens to be a favorite way for me to pass the time.

Rocking the dog park

2009-05-01T19:03:00.000-07:00

So apparently we have been missing out on a great dog park about 15 minutes from our house. It's called Hondo Dog Park. Who is Hondo you ask? Hondo was a police dog that protected the county that I live in and died in the line of duty in 1997.

I didn't have my regular camera with me so these are from my cell and not the greatest but hopefully you can tell what a great time Lexie had playing and running full out all over the place.

I heart the dog park!

Before and After

2009-04-23T16:21:00.001-07:00

So, I learned a lesson when doing a project that you want to document. Take your own pictures for crying in a biscuit. For some reason, I didn't take pictures with my camera when I had the great declutter-a-thon over spring break. I was thinking it would be fine because my friend was taking pictures for her project and she'd send me plenty. Well....that didn't happen. Apparently she didn't get the kind of pictures I was expecting so she only sent me the pictures below. You'll have to use your imagination a little because the before and after aren't of the same part of the closet. I think you'll get the idea though of the shame that was my closet

BEFORE

AND AFTER

Hello, my name is Tonya and I am a packrat. Admitting is the first step right?

Being a slacker

2009-04-18T08:08:00.000-07:00

Right this very minute, I should be heading to drop my son off at grandmas house so I can go to a Stake Women's activity at church but as you can tell, that's not happening. Even though I know that it would be spiritually uplifting for me to go, I just can't seem to get up out of the chair. It's been a long week at our house. Blake and Tim have been sick all week. Blake had a high fever from Sunday evening to Thursday morning. Turns out that he has a sinus infection. Tim has had a bad cold that has had him coughing his head off for over a week. Needless to say, not much sleeping has been going on around here. So basically what I'm trying to say is that I'm pooped out..LOL

I have a house that needs some serious attention, a lesson for primary that I need to prepare and little boy that I want to spend time with. I may even try to throw in a nap just for grins. I know that I'm missing out on a great time with a bunch of wonderful women but sometimes I just don't have it in me to do all that I need or want to do.

Coloring Eggs

2009-04-10T19:32:00.001-07:00

We colored eggs tonight. It's just not Easter without that smell of vinegar lingering in the air. I think my favorite thing in the world is just hanging out with my boys and doing anything at all. I'm a lucky mom and wife. Here are some pics of our handiwork.

Blake's Egg
Family Eggs (can't see the names all that great but they are there)

Learning to get them out

Cheesy fake smile

Getting the hang of it

Cheesy smile part 2

Blake and I love to color together so while we waited for the eggs to get beautified, we created these little masterpieces.

**Sidenote, everything is going pretty good around here. We all have a bit of cold right now (thank you Tim). But we're going to just pretend like we don't because it's Easter and we have things to do. Take that virus.

Facelift for the house

2009-04-02T19:10:00.001-07:00

Also on spring break, we were finally able to get the trim and the door of the house painted. It's been needing it done for a long time. I think it turned out great and it's nice to have something new to look at when you drive up.

The before...

and the after
You can't really tell because of the lighting but the door is a deep shade of red and I really love it. I always wanted a red door.

P.S. Don't worry Kate, I'm still waiting for the other before and after pics but I promise to post as soon as I get them.

2009-03-30T09:35:00.001-07:00

It's been a great week. I spent the first part of the week working hard around the house during the great "2009 Declutter-a-thon" I'll post some before and after pictures soon. Then we headed to the beach on Thursday. The weather was pretty bad especially on Saturday but I love being at the beach no matter what. The waves were pretty big when we were getting winds up to 50 mph. Here are some pics of how we spent the end of spring break.

Feeling Wicked

2009-03-21T18:10:00.000-07:00

In 2005 my friend went to see Wicked. One of the songs on the soundtrack reminded her of our relationship and so she bought if for me. That is when I fell in love with the story. After waiting 4 years I finally got to see the play last night. It did not disappoint. I really enjoyed it. The actors were great and the singing was fantastic. I could only dream of hitting and holding some of the notes they did. It made me laugh and even get a little teary.

Here we are before we left.

This is the part where they were all humoring me because I thought this would be a fun picture. Thanks girls!!

Jessie, Mindy, Me and Kate outside the theatre.

Thanks for the great night ladies. I want to see it again. Who's with me?

Sping break..woohoo

2009-03-19T18:41:00.000-07:00

Okay, it's not quite spring break for me but close enough. One more get up and then I'm off for 9 glorious days. I can hardly wait. It's going to be a mix of getting work and play.

I kick things off tomorrow night with Wicked!! WOOHOO, I've been wanting to see this musical for several years now. 4 girls on the town. Watch out Portland.

Nothing too exciting planned for the weekend but then my best friend is coming over Monday and Tuesday bright and early and we are going to tackle that beast that is clutter in my house. I like to think that I'm a fairly organized gal for the most part but truth be told I'm a mini pack rat. It's going to be really hard for me to open up and show my friend the mess that I have in my closets and nooks and crannies but it will be worth it. I've actually laid awake the last couple of nights thinking of pre cleaning them but she made me promise not to. She wants to have some good "before" pictures. I don't think she knows what she's getting herself into. I'm still debating if I'm going to air my "dirty laundry" here on the blog or not. We'll see. Now, least you think that my friend is just doing this for the fun of it, she's not. She is using me and my clutter as a project for a home staging class she's taking.

Another project that is getting done next week if the weather holds out is that our trim on the house is getting painted and the door. It's been needing it for awhile so it will be nice to get it done.

When all the work is done we are going to the beach for 3 days to get in some good quality fun time. With a schedule like this, I'll need to go back to work to rest..LOL

Q and A with my boy

2009-03-10T16:01:00.000-07:00

Here are some cute questions to ask your kids that I got off of Kate's blog. It was fun to sit down and ask Blake these questions. Keep in mind that I was competing for his attention with watching dad play Star Wars on the Wii.

1. What is something mom always says to you? 25 minutes on the Wii

2. What makes mom happy? When I do what you say

3. What makes mommy sad? when I disobey you

4. How does mommy make you laugh? telling funny jokes

5. What was your mom like as a child? you were cute (how did he know?)

6. How old is your mom? 37

7. How tall is your mom? 30 feet

8. What is her favorite thing to watch on TV? Reba

9. What does your mom do when you’re not around? do the laundry (it's important to hide these things from your children..lol)

10. If your mom becomes famous, what will it be for? I don't know

11. What is your mom really good at? singing songs (poor child is tone deaf)

12. What is your mom not very good at? Star Wars on the Wii

13. What does your mom do for work? computer stuff to make money

14. What is your mom’s favorite food? pizza

15. What makes you proud of your mom? she makes me laugh

16. If your mom was a cartoon character, who would she be? Minnie Mouse

17. What do you and your mom do together? we color together

18. How are you and your mom the same? didn't quite get this question (about this time Daddy got past something on the game so he couldn't pay attention)

19. How are you and your mom different? because you are tall and I am small (it's good to know that I'm tall in someones eyes)

20. How do you know your mom loves you? Because when you got me you loved me

21. What does your mom like most about your dad? daddy makes you laugh

22. Where is your mom’s favorite place to go? to grandma's house (my mother-in-law, I need to get out more..lol)

Being sick is cramping my style and why can't we leave time alone?

2009-03-07T16:08:00.000-08:00

So, for days I have been trying to deny the fact that I was getting sick. We'll today, I could deny no more. A virus has taken up residence in my chest and I now sound like a man. I shouldn't be surprised because everyone I know has been sick lately but I was sure hoping I could avoid it.

I had several plans today and had to cancel them all. I was supposed to go to a "girls night" at my best friends house that I have been looking forward to for a month. Being sick is the pits and being sick on the weekend is just mean. Oh well, Tim will be home soon with my chicken soup and orange juice. What is it about a good ol bowl of chicken soup when you are sick? It just feels so good. Speaking of him, he just walked in the door with a bag full of meds and all the goodies I asked for. What a good hubby.

Now, for another rant, why oh why can't we just leave the time alone? I really don't get the whole spring forward, fall back business. I don't want to give up a full hour of my weekend. What gives with that?

I'm going to go and let my sweet hubby take care of me now. I'm sooooo glad he's home.

Playing catch up

2009-03-02T21:00:00.000-08:00

Wow, where does the time go? How did it get to be March already? I am woefully behind in my blogging and blog reading. The laptop has been down and out so I haven't been online as much the last week or so. Never fear, hubs is researching and if he has his way, we'll have a new one soon.
In no particular order, here is what we have been up to.

1) Blake got called up during assembly on the 100th day of school on Friday and got an award. They draw names out of a big box of things they call "paw"sitives. Kids get them for being caught being safe, responsible or respectful. I can't believe he's been in school 100 days. I think they cheated and counted the weekends..LOL

2) The very next day of school (today) he got a naughty slip sent home that we had to sign and send back to school. This is the first one of these he's gotten. He got in trouble for saying Ï hate table number 1" He knows better than to use that word. You win some, you loose some I guess.

3) I am dealing with carpal tunnel. WAY to much typing at work and I suppose some of it could be from my online "work"at home. *ahem* A few braces and some therapy later and hopefully it will get better.

4) We are going to get the trim on the house painted. I still need to pick out the colors but it needs it badly so I'm excited. I'll post before and afters when it's done.

5) We have 2 new additions to the house. The Saturday before last, Blake's grandparents took him to a pet fair. He walked in the door when he got home with these guys. Introducing Spikey and Swimmy. It's a good thing we love the grandparents because not just anyone could get away with that. They are African Dwarf Frogs and are completely aquatic. It's kind of like taking care of a Beta or a goldfish. Very easy and they don't eat bugs.

They made it a whole week so on Saturday we upgraded there digs to this. The other container was way to small for 2 of them. Blake had fun picking out the gravel and the stuff to put in it.

Look closely and you'll see Swimmy.

And here is Spikey.

6) Last but not least, I get to go see Wicked on the 20th. I am SOOOOO excited. I'm going with my friend Mindy and I know we're going to have a blast. I've read the book and have the soundtrack and can't wait.

All clear

2009-02-18T19:03:00.000-08:00

Tim had his CT scan and the news is a resounding "all clear". He has to go back to the doctor in a week or so to get the go ahead to resume his normal duties at work and then it will be 3 months before he has to go back.

Whew, what a roller coaster of emotions we've had over the last month. I'm so thankful that everything turned out well. It sure has reminded me of how fragile this life really is. You just never know how much time we have left on this Earth or when we might loose someone we love. I really want to live more like each day could be the last day. It's hard to do when we get caught up in the whirlwind and stress of life but I'm really going to work on it.

On a lighter note, Tim had better watch out because when he gets released to regular duty at work he's going back to regular duty at home and there are some garbage bags and recycling with his name on them.

**Sidenote: The sun has been shining more around here and there are buds on some of the trees. I'm starting to get some serious spring fever. The downside is that is shows all the cobwebs and dust in my house and I'm thinking I'll have to fire that housekeeper of mine. Oh wait, that's me. I'm going to give myself a stern talking to at the very least.

The news is good

2009-02-10T19:35:00.000-08:00

We had a doctor appointment late this afternoon and found out that it is cancerous. The good news is that they feel that it was fully contained within the tumor that was removed and is the most common type of cancer for that area of the body. They will schedule a CT scan shortly of his chest and abdomen to make sure that it hasn't spread but the doctor feels the chances are good that it hasn't. He may have to have radiation but it's not likely. He will be followed up with every 3 months with scans etc. for a couple of years and then probably yearly after that for up to 10 years just to make sure nothing happens.

We feel really blessed because this is the best news we could have gotten short of it being benign. The chances of Tim never having any furthers issues are 95 % which sounds pretty good to me.

Thank you to everyone that has prayed for us and all the well wishes. It really did make a difference during this stressful time.

Now I would like to go to bed and stay there for a few days. Yes, that sounds good.

Slowly but surely

2009-02-04T19:29:00.001-08:00

Tim is healing up slowly but surely. He's still pretty sore but that makes sense when you have a big ol incision in your belly with 13 staples. I think he has a new respect for all you mommies out there that have had c-sections.

I have to admit that I have enjoyed being home with him every day. I'm working from home this week. It's been so awesome to be here in the morning to get Blake ready and walk him to school. It does make my heart ache as it reminds me of all that I miss. Him with his cute little back pack and seeing his excitement when he sees all his friends. I know it's a small thing but it means a lot to me.

Anywho, I'll stop sniveling now. No news from the doctor. The week has gone by quickly though. So much to do, so little time. I've cooking now for the last 2 1/2 weeks every night. We haven't gone out to dinner once. This is big news in our world. We used to eat out on average 3 times a week. We're trying to turn over a new leaf and I mean that quite literally. Lots of green veggies going on at this house and only lean meats and fish. We bought a George Forman grill and he and I have been bonding. Tim is usually the cook in our family but I've taken over for a time. If you have any great low fat ways to cook fish, pork loin or chicken please share. We're trying to stay away from noodles and rice right now.

And now we wait

2009-01-30T16:12:00.000-08:00

I am happy to report that the surgery went well. Tim is home and upstairs sleeping. They had some trouble getting an IV in him. Poor guy looks like a pin cushion. He has a pretty good size incision but the doctor said everything looked as he expected it to and there was no obvious sign of it spreading.

Now we wait for the results to get back and then go from there. Thank you so much for all the thoughts and prayers. I could feel them for sure. We are so blessed to have so many good friends and the best church family in the world.

Life can change on a dime

2009-01-29T08:07:00.000-08:00

I've debated about posting about this but in the interest of recording the goings on of the Kelley family I have decided to go ahead. We've always been an open about what's happening our lives whether that be good or bad. I'm also of the mind that the more prayers the better so bring it on..LOL

Tim is having surgery tomorrow. We have to be at the hospital at 545am and he's set for 730am. They will be removing a tumor that they are about 90 % sure is cancerous. It's been a few days shy of two weeks since he started this process by seeing his family doctor. He sent him for a ultrasound last Wed, we saw the surgeon Tuesday and the surgery is tomorrow. Sometimes, as you know, things can drag along and I'm happy this is moving so swiftly. Think "Lance Armstrong" cancer and we'll leave it at that. This is a G rated blog after all.

They will remove the tumor, send it to be tested which will take anywhere from 5 to 10 days and then let us know what we're dealing with. There is a chance that it will be benign but the doctor feels pretty sure it won't be. The good news is that this type of cancer is VERY treatable. Even if it has spread. It's the number one cancer that men get. In Lance Armstrongs case, it had spread to his abdomen and even his brain and they were able to treat him and he has made a full recovery. After the surgery, Tim will then have more diagnostic tests, CTI's, MRI's, etc to determine if it has made it's way anywhere else in the body.

Tim is nervous and little scared (okay, me too) but I feel confident that it will all be okay. Might be a bumpy road but we're ready for it. The hardest part will be the waiting after the surgery to find out what we're dealing with. I'm not good at waiting. Patience is not a virtue I possess. I know, big surprise for those who know me.

I'll be taking time off work to help him recover as they do have to make a several inch incision in his abdomen. I'm so thankful for my faith and for this gospel. I feel so blessed to have such a wonderful group of friends and family that have already offered help. I do so love this gospel. I'm not sure how people get through this kind of stuff without it.

I'll post more when I know more.

6 measly times

2009-01-25T22:34:00.000-08:00

That's all I've posted this year, 6 measly little times. I'd like to write more often but a) I don't usually have time and 2) I'm just not that creative. I am starting to think like a blogger and take my camera more often but I just don't have something to talk about every day. Am I in a rut? Am I missing things that I should be writing down for my posterity to know about? Will they look back at this someday and think "Wow, mom/grandma/great-granny was sure a boring chick"

I want them to know how much I laugh every single day. How much my son touches my heart with his little acts of love even when we're having a challenging day. How much joy both he and his father bring to my life. I live with my best friend. We have our ups and downs just like everyone else but I know without a doubt that he's there for me no matter what. I'm so far from perfect and they love me anyway. They have seen my worst and still come back for more. Even on the hardest day at home, I'd rather be there than anywhere.

So, for any of my kin that read this down the road, please know that mom/grandma/great-granny etc was not a boring chick and certainly did not live a boring life. I just didn't always get time to write it down. I was just to busy living and loving it.

Trying to freeze time and puppy love?

2009-01-22T21:17:00.000-08:00

You know those moments where you'd just like to freeze time and keep it there for a little while longer. I had one of those tonight. It wasn't that big of a deal really. I'm making dinner, Tim is checking his email and Blake is outside drawing pictures on the patio. Blake keeps running in and asking me to look at what he has done. He's so proud of himself. He drew a picture of a tree with a swing and little apples and he drew a house and the last thing he drew was this

It says "To Mom fum Blake". His drawings have come a long way since he started kindergarten. His teacher would be proud of how he wrote his name. I'm amazed lately at how well he's reading and writing. It seems a switch has turned on. It's really not the pictures that made me want to freeze time. It was just an average sweet moment. Can't I keep him this age for a little long than a year?

In other news, the next picture is Lexies little way of saying I love you. This was a new box of Puff's plus that I had just bought. Not just any old Kleenex but Puffs Plus. Gotta love this new chewing phase.

My alter egos

2009-01-19T18:22:00.000-08:00

To find your ROCK STAR NAME take your first pet & current car: Icky Chevy

To find your GANGSTA NAME take your favorite ice cream flavor and your favorite cookie: Udderly chocolate chip

YOUR DETECTIVE NAME? Your favorite color and favorite animal: Red Tiger

Want to know your SUPERHERO NAME? Just add the word "The" plus your 2nd favorite color, and your favorite drink: The Blue Diet Coke.

Your NASCAR NAME. Take the first names of your grandfathers: Lawrence Henry

If I ever go into WITNESS PROTECTION you can find me with this name. Ann Edward

TV WEATHER ANCHOR NAME? Thomas Toronto

Of course, if you find me in witness protection I will assume it was because you were using your SPY NAME. Winter Oriental Lilly

Find your CARTOON NAME by taking your favorite fruit, and an article of clothing you’re wearing right now, then add "ie" or "y": Banana Shirtie

Your ROCKSTAR TOUR is heading across the northeast...it's called "The” + Your fave hobby/craft, your fave weather element + the word “Tour”: The blogging snow tour.

Bethle-HAM?

2009-01-17T07:38:00.000-08:00

I know that my son might not be all that entertaining to my handful of readers but he cracks me up and I don't want to forget these little jewels that he comes up with.

Last night on the way to Costco, we were singing Christmas Bells because it seems to be eternally stuck in my head.

It goes like this:

"Christmas Bells are ringing..hear what they say to you...Jesus is born in Bethlehem....in Bethlehem. "

After singing through a few times Blake pipes up from the back and says "Mom, why was Jesus born in Ham"

You know that he must have been thinking about this for awhile because we sang this song in primary this Christmas and it's been stuck in my head. I guess we all need to enunciate a little better..LOL

**Sidenote: This is my 202nd post. I'll try to think of some fabulous post to mark the occasion but if you have any ideas, I'd love to hear it.

Funny Boy

2009-01-14T06:36:00.000-08:00

The other day in the car, hubby and I were having a conversation with Blake and he started talking about getting married. He said he knew who he was going to marry now and it wasn't Lexie (sorry Lexie) the girl he's been saying he's going to marry for a long time. He has found someone new. The trouble is that this girl wants to have nothing to do with him. We tried to explain that he didn't need to worry about who he was going to marry for a long long time but his crush won't be "crushed"..LOL Pardon the awful pun. Anywho, the conversation went something like this.

Blake: I'm going to marry Riley.

Us: Oh really, don't you think that might be hard when she won't talk to you and doesn't seem to like you.

Blake: Don't worry Mom, she'll get used to me.

You can't say the child isn't self confident, that's for sure.

One Word

2009-01-09T06:34:00.001-08:00

Your Word is "Love"

You see life as possibility to form deep connections with a few people.
Relationships are the center of your world, and you always take time to bond with those you love.

You are caring and giving. You enjoy helping those you love.
And when it comes to romantic love, you feel passionately ... even in a very long term relationship.

What's" Your Word?

Thinking about putting ourselves out there...again

2009-01-08T06:26:00.000-08:00

Hubby and I had a conversation last night about something that has been on my mind for quite some time now. We talked about adopting another child. Now we have had this discussion before so many times and would have already done it if it weren't for the money required through most agencies.

I've had this feeling lately that we need forget about the agencies and start the process of adoption through the state or Oregon. We have also talked about this over the years as we had started this a little over 6 years ago when we found out about Blake. The biggest reason we haven't followed through is because of what we learned about most of the kids that come through for adoption with the state. Most have been abused, neglected, exposed to drugs and a myriad of other horrors that you can hardly imagine. I've been worried that I couldn't give all that these children would need because I work outside the home. It wouldn't be fair to them.
I still feel that way to some degree but I also can't shake the feeling that our family isn't complete.

I was 4 1/2 when the woman I consider to be my mom came into my life. I had been through the ringer. I'm sure not as badly as most of the kids that are up for adoption through the state but I had my share of baggage. She worked outside the home and still managed to make me feel loved, wanted and cared for. It took some time but I bonded with her.
Maybe we could make it work. Maybe it's time to quit coming up with reasons why it won't work and show a little faith.

We're going to the temple on Saturday with our ward and we're going to take a prayer with us about this and we're also going to fast about it. We should have done this sooner I realize that but sometimes we a little slow on the uptake..lol

Maybe, just maybe there is a little person out there that needs us as much as we need them. Time will tell.

New year...new goals

2008-12-30T19:10:00.000-08:00

I like to call them goals and not resolutions. For some reason it makes me feel better if/when I don't achieve them. 2008 has been a pretty good year. I didn't necessarily reach all the goals I set for myself at the beginning of the year but I've made progress and that counts. Our family was free of major health problems. My mother-in-law got a new kidney and it is doing well. We really have been blessed.

This year I am going to continue to work on my food storage and emergency preparedness. I'm also going to work on organizing my cupboards and closets. It's time to clean out some of the old and welcome in the new. I have started already in the kitchen. With my Christmas money I bought my very first full set of matching dishes. I have been married 15 years and I've always had bits of pieces of different sets. I went to Bed Bath and beyond but I just couldn't see spending that much money. So, I found these at Fred Meyer.

I really like them the prices were great. I bought 8 big plates, 8 small plates and 8 bowls. I also got a nice set of glasses. Goodbye ugly plastic stuff that I've had forever. I feel like such a grown up.

Sit on a piece of pie...check

2008-12-26T16:54:00.000-08:00

No, that is not a typo in the subject line. Christmas Eve I sat on a piece of pie. How did this happen you ask? Well, I'd like to blame myself but I won't. I'll blame Tim. Yes, that sounds better. After dinner I went and got a piece of pumpkin pie with lots of cool whip. I proceed to take my pie to the living room where Tim gives me the "excuse me, where is my pie" look. How dare I forget to get my man some pie. So, I sat the piece of pie in my chair because the side table was full. Do you see where this is going? I proceeded to fetch my honey up a piece of pie and I made sure to tell my father-in-law to be careful not to sit in my chair because of the pie. I know, I'm thoughtful like that. After I gave Tim his pie, I sat down in my chair. As I sat there I thought "now what was I doing before I got my honey his pie" and then it dawned on me. I sat on my pie. The whole family was in the living room so there was no hiding it. I took the teasing and excused myself to clean up my pie. Luckily we had opened gifts already and my sweet mother-in-law bought me new jammies so I was able to change into the cozy fleece bottoms. So, you see how this was all Tim's fault right? LOL :o)

No, I did not take a picture, I wouldn't subject you all to a scene like that. This is a family friendly blog after all.

Missing you mom

2008-12-24T15:10:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's been 3 years ago today that I lost my mom. I really do miss her. She taught me so much about being a mom and that it's much more than just giving birth to a child. She taught me to laugh when things were hard. She taught me that I could be whatever I wanted. She taught me not to live in the past and that the past did not have to define me.

I'm only sad because I can't talk to her today or open her annual musical Christmas card. I know she is in a better place and I know her heart and I'm sure that she has accepted the gospel. She is no longer in pain. She is watching over me. It seems I can feel her near at times. Today is one of those times.

I love you mom. I know I will see you again. I look forward to that sweet reunion. Thank you for all you taught me and for loving that little 5 year old messed up girl when you didn't have to. Thank you for being my mom.

Winter Blast continues

2008-12-20T17:44:00.000-08:00

Okay, so you might be tired of hearing about our weather but I'm not and it's my blog so there..LOL

I can't believe how much snow has fallen today. Yesterday a good deal of it melted so all the pics today are what has fallen overnight and today. It's fluffy and beautiful. Not good for snowmen but great for snow angels.

Blake and I went to his school and played on the slides and had a blast today. I even made a snow angel. I didn't take the camera because I didn't want to ruin it so you'll have to trust me that it was awesome.

Here is another pic from our bedroom window, the snow was coming down like mad so it's kind of hard to see.

Here's Lexie playing out in it and having a ball.

I measured what has fallen on one of our chairs today. It's not scientific but you get the idea.

There is more to come and maybe even some freezing rain for good measure. No ward party tonight and no church tomorrow. The forecast for Christmas....40 and raining. Oh well, we can just pretend we had a white Christmas. It's close enough to count in my book.

Date with my son

2008-12-19T13:52:00.000-08:00

So, I figured that since I was home again today because of the weather, I would take my son to see "The Tale of Despereaux". The theatre is probably less than half a mile from my house. I could skid that far. We had a wonderful time. The movie was delightful, the popcorn nice and fresh and I couldn't have asked for better company. This movie is a sweet story of courage, honor and chivalry. I didn't know anything about this story. I just heard the other day that there is a book. I'm so glad they made it into a movie. It made for a wonderful date with my son and hopefully a sweet memory for him.

Back to work

2008-12-18T18:28:00.000-08:00

It's a good thing I was able to go back to work today or I might have had to start cleaning the closet. Whew, dodged a bullet on that one. There are only so many presents to wrap, treats to make and decorations to put up.

The weather is still a little iffy and we're supposed to get more snow this weekend. I've lived here for 14 years and I can't remember a winter where the white stuff has stuck around for so long. I do realize that it's only a little compared to so many others but for us it's exciting stuff. Our news is having fun covering "Artic Blast 2008" . I'm thinking those from Canada, Minnesota etc would be laughing now.

In other weather related news, my van does not drive well in the snow/ice. I went to work yesterday for a few hours and the weather was getting pretty bad so I proceeded to drive/slide home, praying/pleading for every light to stay green so I didn't have to stop/skid and restart/fishtail. It took me nearly two hours to get home when it normally takes me 35.

Maybe we'll get a white Christmas out of it. But only the kind where you can still drive around and do what you want to.

Winter wonderland and a childs faith

2008-12-15T14:13:00.000-08:00

Yesterday it snowed the majority of the day. I love snow!!! Usually when they predict snow it doesn't happen but they got this one right. Today it is sunny and a balmy 28. We aren't supposed to get over 30 until Wednesday when we might get some more snow. Usually in Oregon it snows and it's gone the next day so this is a treat. I scheduled a vacation day today well before I had a clue it was going to snow so that worked out well. I didn't have to worry about trying to get to the office.

Blake and I went to the park down the street and played with his little sled. I decided we should walk over to the school and left the sled at the park. We were gone about 10 minutes and when we got back the sled was gone. It was just a little cheap thing but it really upset Blake. As we were walking back he said that he thought Jesus would know who took it. I told him that he did for sure. He asked that we stop right there and pray about it. So we bowed we our heads and he asked Heavenly Father to help him find the sled or have the person who took it bring it back to us. I am truly touched by his faith and I wish there were something that I could do to bring that sled back to him. I don't know how it will turn out but if ever a little child needs his prayer answered it is now.

Blake in the backyard yesterday.

Lexie when the snow had just started to stick. She thought it was fun to push the snow with her nose and eat it. Not so fun later with a few inches and she got a cold hiney.

The view from my bedroom window. Isn't is beautiful.

Better late than never

2008-12-13T20:14:00.000-08:00

Finally.....the tree.

Some of my Favorite Ornaments The first year Tim and I were together. The date is 1991.

Looks kinda of like Lexie.

Announcing the arrival of the our Lord.

Our 9/11 ornament.

Each year we buy one or two ornaments that will represent things that from that year. This year it was the doggie ornament and Blake's transformer ornament which I didn't take a picture of. Then each year as we are decorating it brings to mind so many memories. It's my favorite part of decorating.

Random Happenings

2008-12-09T17:44:00.000-08:00

I'm determined not to let the volume of things that I need to get done in the next 16 days stress me out. I refuse to be stressed this season . Does it really matter that I don't have the tree up yet? Not in the big scheme of things. Right? That's what I thought too.

Tonight I am attempting to make fudge for the first time. So far, it's coming out a bit too gritty from the sugar. I'm sure there is some trick or maybe it's just my recipe. The kind I'm making is called Dreamy fudge and it has marshmallows, evaporated milk, butter and sugar and then you add either peanut butter or chocolate chips after you take it off the stove. I tried the chocolate kind first and after hubby gets done making dinner and cookies I'm going to try the peanut butter. Hubby is going to make cookies and then tomorrow we're going to make up goodie bags and deliver them to our home teachers etc. That's the plan anyway. Wish us luck and that the fudge is edible.

The tree, decorations, present wrapping and the rest will get done eventually. I will be over here not stressing about it and enjoying the season. Even if I have to talk myself into every day.

Christmas Tag

2008-12-03T19:50:00.000-08:00

I saw this over at Mindys and thought it would be fun and maybe get me in the mood to get some decorating going over here.

1. Wrapping Paper or Gift Bags...Mostly wrapping paper but a few bags here and there.
2. Real Tree or artificial...even though I threaten each year to get a fake one I don't think I could really ever do it. I love the smell and look of a real one.
3. When do you put up the tree?..A couple of weeks before Christmas.
4. When do you take the tree down?... Usually after the New Year.
5. Do you like egg nog?... Yucko
6. Favorite gift received as a child?... Barbies and my first boom box
7. Hardest person to buy for...Tim's parents
8. Easiest person to buy for...Blake and his cousins
9. Do you have a nativity scene...Yes
10. Mail or email Christmas cards...Mail--It's a dying art and I'm trying to revive it.
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received?... That would be mean ;o)
12. Favorite Christmas movie?... White Christmas
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas?... The day after Thanksgiving.
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? ...Yes, our family has a set of "I'm with Stupid" shirts that go to a different family each year.
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? ... Chocolate covered cherries
16. Lights on the tree? ... YES--the blinkier (I just made that word up) the better
17. Favorite Christmas Song?...Mary did you know and O holy night
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? ... Home, all of the family is around here
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? ...Dasher, Dancer, Prancer and Vixen, Comet, Cupid and Donner and Blitzen and of Course Rudolph. Yes, I had to sing the song.
20. Angel on top of the tree or star? ...Angel
21. Open the presents on Christmas Eve or Morning?... Both because we celebrate with each side of the families on different days.
22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? ... Trying to get it all done and still not forget what it's really all about.
23. Favorite ornament theme or color? ... We always call our tree the "Charlie Brown tree" because it has a little of everything and they all mean something. I love all the memories when we hang the ornaments.
24. Favorite for Christmas dinner?... Ham
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? ... To not get stressed about all there is to do and focus on the giving.

Home at last

2008-12-03T19:21:00.001-08:00

She's finally home. We brought her home last night and she spent the day with our vet getting more IV fluids. Her labs are still a little high so she goes back tomorrow to check them again. Hopefully we'll be in follow up mode now until we get her off the meds. Thank you all for the sweet thoughts for Lexie.

I'm thinking pet insurance is in order for this little undiscerning eater or ours. I mean she eats kitty roca" (if you don't know, don't ask) so there is not telling what's next.

Poor little puppy

2008-11-30T21:54:00.000-08:00

Our little 6 month old puppy Lexie is in the animal hospital in Portland. Saturday night I found her with a tube of my husbands Psoriasis medicine that she had been chewing on. She was being way to quiet so I went to find out what she was doing. Dogs are like children in that way. We're not sure how much she had but we called the Pet Poison Control and they said we should take her in immediately to the vet. It was 9 pm and the only place open is a 24 hour pet ER, ICU, hospital in Portland so we took her there. It turns out that the medicine can be deadly when ingested. It raises the blood calcium which then can damage various soft tissue such as the liver, kidney's etc. We were there until around midnight and we were told they would need to keep her for four days. They gave her activated charcoal and started her on IV fluids. They will do blood work every 12 hours to check the levels on her kidneys and liver.

Thankfully my friend Holly came over and stayed with Blake so both Tim and I could go. It was very traumatic. It turns out that I'm very attached to this little creature. I know that some would say "hey it's just a dog" but she really has become a member of our family. We went to see her tonight and so far she's had a little bit of the runs and her blood levels are just slightly elevated. If she stays the same we may be able to transfer her to our vet sometime tomorrow. We'll just have to see how the blood work turns out the next couple of times.

I really hope she is okay. I just can't imagine loosing her so early in her sweet little life. She has brought a great deal of joy, love and laughter to our home even if she is "just a dog". It will be good if we can get her closer to home. The hospital is about 45 minutes from here. I'm just glad that such a thing exists and is close enough to help. I'm up now because I'm worried about her being lonely and thinking we have abandoned her. I know it's not rational but it just is.

I love Black Friday!!

2008-11-28T21:00:00.000-08:00

Some would say that I'm crazy but to those people I would just say "Crazy is as crazy does" because I was able to get all but 4 of my Christmas gifts purchased in one day" Woo-hoo!!

I really do enjoy shopping the day after Thanksgiving. It's become a tradition for me and several of my friends. We start at Fred Meyer at 5:00 a.m. for the sock sales etc. Then we go have breakfast at Elmers, head over to Tannasborne for Target and Michaels and then go to Streets of Tannasborne for random stores. The best part is that I'm usually home by 11:00 ish.

Yes, the crowds can be crazy and some people can be cranky (those are my favorites because I love to wish them a Merry Christmas in my sweetest voice and watch them process it) but it really starts off the Christmas season for me. Hearing the music in the stores and having fun with my friends.

What say you? Fun or never gonna happen?

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2008-11-27T09:39:00.000-08:00

I have so much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving Day. I have been given so much. I have a wonderful family, a home that truly feels like a refuge from the world outside, great friends, plenty to eat (more than I should most of the time) and last but not least, the gospel. The Lord has truly blessed me with more than I deserve and I am truly thankful.

I hope you all have a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving holiday.

8 x 8 Meme

2008-11-24T20:39:00.000-08:00

A loooonnnggg time ago Kate tagged me to do this MeMe. Better late than never right?

8 things about 8 things

1. 8 TV Shows I Watch:

a. Survivor

b. The Amazing Race

c. Reba

d. Grey's Anatomy

e. So you think you dance

f. House

g. The Dog Whisperer

h. Lost

2. 8 Favourite Restaurants: (in no particular order)

a. McGraths

b. Red Robin

c. Elmer's (love their breakfast food)

d. Mazatlan

e. Olive Garden

f. Hunan Pearl

g. Red Lobster

h. Sweet Tomatoes

3. 8 Things That Happened Yesterday:

a. took the dog for a walk

b. helped a little neighbor boy that was locked out of his house and his mom and grandma were at work

c. downloaded more pictures to my digital frame

d. did a couple of loads of laundry

e. worked

f. played with my son

g. ate some yummy snickerdoodles that my hubby made

h. made a Christmas list to get ready for shopping

4. 8 Things I’m Looking Forward To:

a. Thanksgiving

b. Christmas

c. hopefully going to SLC for conference in April

d. 4 day weekend

e. shopping the day after Thanksgiving with my friends (it's a yearly tradition)

f. spring

g. being with my family for eternity

h. going to the beach

5. 8 Things On My Wishlist:

a. Diamond Earrings

b. A TV with HD

c. a closet organizer and someone to put it in

d. red fuzzy crocs (hey, I love em no matter how ugly they are, what can I say?)

e. a cherry red convertible mustang with leather seats

f. a bigger house with a family room upstairs

g. a very well trained dog

h. being a size 8

6. 8 Things I Love:

a. My husband

b. my son

c. the gospel

d. Heavenly father and Jesus Christ

e. my friends

f. the temple

g. my in-laws

h. my dog and cats

7. 8 Things I Can’t Stand:

a. intolerance

b. bigotry

c. two faced people

d. insincerity

e. people who drive like they have some kind of special license that allows them to speed and cut you off and otherwise endanger your life

f. bad customer service, I want people to be nice when they take my money

g. Parents that teach their children to hate

h. disrespect

8. 8 People I Am Tagging:

This might be hard because I'm not sure that I even have 8 people that read my blog these days. Those that do can do this if you like but no pressure. Tags should be fun and not something to feel guilty about not doing.

a. Carrie

b. Nancy

c. Yvonne

d. Amber

e. Beth

f. Mindy

g. Gabe

h. Melissa

When getting a yurt is like winning the lottery

2008-11-21T07:47:00.000-08:00

Several years ago, my family discovered camping in a Yurt. They are convenient and warm and a wonderful way to camp. Each year we would book a few weekends to camp in the summer and had a great time. Well, the last few years it has been nearly impossible to get a yurt in the summer on a weekend. It seems that everyone has discovered out little secret about how yurt camping is so great. Now it's like winning the lottery apparently because I just can't get a reservation. I've been trying now since early July to book for next year. The rules are that the earliest you can reserve is 9 months from the date you want. I have tried calling and the computer at the same time each Friday at 8am when they open and by 8:01 a.m. every yurt is booked in Oregon State Parks. I guess it's back to tent camping for us because I never have been lucky at the lottery. Oy!!

**Update** I should have complained sooner because minutes after writing this I was able to make a reservation for a beach down South on the coast for 3 nights**

Party time

2008-11-17T08:42:00.000-08:00

Blake had such a fun time Saturday at his party. Lots of good friends, family, food and fun. The pinata was a blast and the time just flew by.

Blake's 6th Birthday

6 years...when did that happen?

2008-11-14T09:46:00.001-08:00

How on earth can 6 years go by and it feel like only a minute? Blake is 6 years old today. He's very excited to need 2 hands to show his age on now. He has a party scheduled tomorrow with 10 of his friends and cousins and is very excited. Tonight we will take him to dinner wherever he wants to go and then we might go see Madagascar 2.

I can't believe that it's been six years ago today when they placed this sweet child in my arms and I became not just Tonya but a mother. I had yearned for it for so many years that the moment was the sweetest of my life. I knew the moment I saw him that he was mine. I couldn't physically carry him for some reason (I'll be asking about that when I see Heavenly Father) but the Lord made sure he got to me. These last six years have been the most joyful of my life. Yes, they have been the hardest but the rewards far outweigh the grief. I never knew the capacity that my heart had to love until I met this little child. The amazing thing is that the love just continues to grow. Just when I think that I can't possibly love him more, my heart seems to expand and make room. Yes, he is a challenge and is always testing me to make sure that I'm still the boss. But wow this kid is amazing. He's smart, funny, inquisitive, compassionate and has a zest for life that is rarely matched. He makes me laugh on a daily basis with his view of the world and often frustrates me in the next breath. He's into everything superhero or Star Wars and so wants to be older than he is. He loves his mommy and daddy and likes us all to be together. If Tim and I are gone he always asks the other one when we will be home because things just aren't right unless we are all under one roof. He loves his grandma and grandpa it seems sometimes more than his mom and dad. They are very close and have him over all the time. He loves almost every child he meets and instantly wants to have a play date. I feel bad sometimes that he's an only child be he has lots of sudo brothers and sisters.

I'm so thankful that I was chosen to be this little mans mom. What a amazing and overwhelming experience it has been. I look forward to doing my best to raise him right and watch him become the amazing man that I know he will be. Heaven help me. Literally.

Dog Whisperer Wanna-be

2008-11-12T17:10:00.000-08:00

Lexie and I started doggie training class a couple of weeks ago. It's been well worth the money. Our walks around the neighborhood have been much better and she's learning some basic commands. Hopefully she'll come out with a few manners as well. I really think these classes are to train me more than anything.

**Sidenote** Apparently the red vest is the official "dog training" uniform. The other gal in the picture is Blake's sitter Paula and her sweet puppy Murphy.

Veterans Day

2008-11-11T06:16:00.001-08:00

I grew up in a military family. My dad was in the air force for 21 years and even though he got out only a few years after I was born, he ran his home like the military. We got up early (WE didn't dare to burn daylight) and we worked hard. We respected authority and didn't talk back to our superiors. To say that I didn't appreciate it at the time would be an understatement. Looking back on it though (ah, that hindsight) I realize how this shaped me as a person. I am never late. In fact, I would say that 99% of the time I am early. This annoys me but it's a good thing as well. I have a good work ethic. My dad always taught me that anything worth doing was worth doing right. Last but not least my dad instilled in me a great love for my country and for those that serve or have served it.

If you know me, you know that my father was far from perfect. However, he did love me and he loved his country. Today is the 6th anniversary of my fathers death. I always thought it was appropriate that he died on Veterans Day. He was a true American. He served his country with all his might and he loved it. I'm thankful that he helped me to truly appreciate the freedoms that we have and to appreciate those who fought/fight to keep them.

Thank you Dad. Thank you to all those who selflessly give everything, including their lives, to keep this great country free. I appreciate and love all of you. God Bless America!!

Proud to be an American

2008-11-04T16:22:00.000-08:00

Regardless of how this day turns out, I am so thankful to be an American. I'm so grateful to know that I have the right to vote for the leader of my country. I have a voice. It may be a small voice but I do have one. I want to thank all of those that have fought, and continue to fight and die, for me to have this right. I am free to do this without fear of harm. I am free to worship as I see fit. What a blessing to live in this great land.

Happy Halloween

2008-11-01T07:39:00.000-07:00

Luckily the rain held off last night for trick or treating. We had a great time going to the truck or treat at the church and then going to a neighborhood where we know several people. Blake got lots of candy and even a few tricks. The neighborhood we went to pulled out all the stops. Many of the houses were really decked out. I can't believe how much work they put into it. Very cool.

Dark Vader (you thought it was Darth Vader right? Not according to Blake)

Blake and his buddy Rayden.

K-9 cop (this picture could be in one of those "why animals attack" emails..lol)

Insomnia

2008-10-29T22:41:00.000-07:00

How can I be so tired and not be able to fall asleep? Because I can't shut my mind up for anything tonight. It wants to solve all my problems and some of the worlds problems as well. It's now 10:43pm and I have to get up at 4:15am, 430am if I pull my hair back. No matter how you slice it, that is not going to be much sleep. Hopefully I can get some of my thoughts out here so I can get to sleep soon.

I have a friend that has been telling me that I'm burning the candle at both ends. The trouble is that I know that and most days it feels like the candle is going to burn me but I don't know how to fix it. You see, the things that are keeping me busy are good things by most standards. Church, PTO, family, friends, work etc. I'm probably no busier than most moms I know. I just need to find some kind of balance. I want so much to be everything to everyone but sometimes it feels that I'm loosing myself in the process. I keep thinking that next month will get better and things will slow down but it doesn't happen. Now the holidays are creeping up and instead of looking forward to them, I'm dreading the extra things they will put on my plate. That is just sad. I also don't like sounding like a whiner. Oh poor me, I have such a busy life..blah blah. Why does it seem that some people have it so together? What do they know that I don't? How do they the energy to get it all done and still make breakfast from scratch?

Work has also been hard. I am truly thankful that I have job when so many don't. I know this and yet I dread going in so much that I get cranky on Sunday afternoon at the thought of it. The work itself is okay but the people are a real challenge. I'm hoping to just bide my time until I can find somewhere else within the company. What I really need to do is go back to school and learn how to do something that I really want to do. But if you refer to paragraph #2, just where exactly am I going to fit that in? I want to be doing something that makes a difference in the lives of others. I want to work with people, not computers. I want to be a nurse or work in the medical field again in some capacity. I was truly the happiest when I was working in a hospital waking people up at all unearthly hours to draw their blood. It was not much but it made me feel like I was helping someone.

There are many more thoughts rolling around in my head but I've babbled and whined enough. Hopefully just offloading this much will help. I know it will all work out. I know that I am truly blessed in so many ways. This is what I need, no will, focus on.

Another year older and wiser too???

2008-10-27T19:44:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm another year older anyway. One out of two isn't too bad right? Walking home from school today with my son, we had a conversation about how old I am. I think it kind of put it in perspective today for him when I explained that while he's been in this world just shy of 6 years, his mommy has been in this world 37 years today. Maybe he'll finally get that I really do know more than him about most things. Nah, who am I kidding..lol

I had a very nice Birthday weekend. Hubby's mom made my favorite dinner for me Saturday night and we had a very nice celebration. The boys had made me my favorite cake, yellow cake with chocolate icing, the night before. Yummy!! My family is always good about making me feel very special. I had the day off today because I just couldn't see working on my birthday especially when it's a Monday. I volunteered in Blake's class which was a real treat. I'm going to have to figure out a way to do that more often.

Thank you for the birthday wishes!!

First time for the tooth fairy

2008-10-26T16:50:00.000-07:00

Blake has had a couple of loose teeth now for a few weeks and he's been wiggling and wiggling them and then look what happened today

No fuss, no muss. He just pulled the first one out and then the second one. His first "big" tooth is already coming in as you can see in the extreme close up picture. It looks like the tooth fairy will be visiting us tonight for the very first time. Wonder what the going rate is these days?

Carving out some memories

2008-10-24T19:50:00.001-07:00

First you have to pick the pumpkins Take the before picture

Have a little fun while you are picking out your pumpkins

Help daddy make a cake for mom's birthday

Mix the cake

Purse your lips really hard . (This is why we call him bird , look at those lips)

Concentrate on what you are doing

Push through when you're getting tired

Get a lesson from your mom

Pose for a picture with mom

Show off the finished products

Light them up and take an "after" shot

First parent/teacher conference

2008-10-21T07:45:00.001-07:00

Last Thursday was our very first parent/teacher conference. Blake has been in school now for about 6 weeks and we were anxious to hear how it was going. We heard exactly what we expected. This has been the description of Blake since he was a baby. "Blake is very bright and very active" In other words if and when he sits still for five seconds he knows what he's doing.

This child came into our lives as if on a mission. He rolled over both ways at 3 months, crawled at 6 months and hasn't looked back since. Some say "Oh, he's just a boy and it's normal" While I would like to believe that his activity level is normal, I know that it is not. I have been around enough children his age now to see the difference.

I truly wouldn't change him for the world. He is sweet, smart, funny, inquisitive and has a zest for life that knocks my socks off. However we do think we will need to intervene soon so he can be successful. We need to find ways to direct this endless energy for good. We talked to the teacher and she is going to ask around and see what kind of help is out there. I just want him to be able to be successful. If we can get him and us the tools to get him there then I am all for it. The teacher was saying they will probably send someone in to observe him without him knowing that he's been observed. They'll find out how often, in a certain time frame, that he gets distracted and looses his focus among other things. What will happen remains to be seen and a lot can change in a short time at this age. This story is definitely to be continued.

Sweet moment in "the sweet life"

2008-10-17T08:44:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had one of those moments in life where you find it truly hard to describe? The English language, or any other language for that matter, seems to be insufficient. I had one of those moments last Saturday. I was kneeling across the alter from my child and my husband in the temple of our God. We were sealed together as a family for all time and eternity.

The entire day was just wonderful. The weather was a perfect sunny, cool and crisp fall day. We arrived at the temple at 9:30 in the morning and from there it just got better and better. I did some initiatories while waiting on Tim. We then met up and headed for his endowment. It was so awesome to see him there with me after all these years. I couldn't help but smile from ear to ear the entire time. I kept it together pretty well until Holly hugged me. The emotion then came flooding out.

After the endowment we were lead to a sealing room where about 40 of our dear friends were there to support us. The sealer was warm and funny and after Tim and I were sealed they brought our sweet boy to us. He was embarrassed to have everyone looking at him and came running over to me. He then put his little hand on ours and we were sealed together forever. As I said already, it's to hard to put how I felt into words but that moment in time will be burned into my mind forever. It was the second (next only to having my son placed into my arms) sweetest moment of my life. I feel so blessed to have these two boys in my life and now to have them for all eternity. Wow..just wow. Thank you Heavenly Father for blessing me so richly. I am truly thankful.

Here are a few pictures from after.

Is he cute or what?

For my posterity (part 3)

2008-10-02T19:46:00.000-07:00

So I made that decision. I was baptized March 22, 2002. What a wonderful day. Tim thought I was a bit off my rocker but was totally supportive. Mark and Gary made the trip with a few of their kids and finally I met my gospel mentors. If I hadn't known it before, I knew it then, these were my brothers. I'm convinced we were in the same family in our premortal life. They found me here and taught me and Mark baptized me. Gary spoke at the baptism. It was wonderful. I was sure that after I left the water I was glowing. I felt an overwhelming warmth and most of all. I felt love. I felt wrapped in my Savior's arms. He was pleased with my decision and I knew it.

The next day I was confirmed in church and given the gift of the Holy Ghost. I also partook of the sacrament for the first time. At this point I had been attending church since January. I had never taken sacrament. I didn't feel worthy. I remember my first day at church. True to form, Mark and Gary called the bishop and let him know that I would coming. I sat in the parking lot of the church that first Sunday scared to death. What was I getting myself into? I called Mark and told him that I just couldn't do it. He calmly talked me into giving it a try. I mustered up the nerve and walked through the door. There was Bishop Carver with this big smile on his face. He said "You must be Tonya Kelley, we've been expecting you. Welcome" He then introduced me to a lady he called Sister Cottam. She wrapped me in her arms and ushered me over to sit by her. It was like she had known me for years. I sat down and had this odd feeling of coming home. I knew this was where I was supposed to be.

I made it back the next Sunday and was sitting in Relief Society when in walked this gal that looked as uncomfortable as I felt. She came over and sat down by me and we started talking. Her name was Holly and she and her family had just moved back to the area after being in Washington State for several years. Little did I know at the time but this person and her family would be my rock. We would grow as close as sisters and her family would become my church family. From that time on we sat together at church. They took me in as one of theirs. I can't even begin to tell you how this helped me. I am 100% positive that I would not have made it to where I am now without them. They missed me if I didn't come. They truly cared for me. They stood by me every step of the way. My baptism, my son, my son's surgery, my dad's death, my mom's death, when I went through the temple for myself and everything else to this point.

It's hard to explain how hard it was to keep going. To just get to church each week. Early on I heard a talk where a awesome lady (who knows who she is) said "You can't go inactive in 7 days". When things were hard I kept repeating this to myself. Just get to church. Do the little things and you will make it. I am living proof that having a good friend (and her family) and a calling make all the difference to a convert. Often, had it not been for one or more of these things I wouldn't have made it. I would have stopped. It would have been so easy. Just stop going. Stop tithing. Stop it all. It would have been much easier. But I was different, I had changed. A mighty miracle had occurred in my heart. I was no longer the person I was before. I know knew the pure joy that the gospel can bring. The direction it gives.

I stuck it out. Tim joined a year ago and we will be going to the temple in 9 short days. What a miracle it has all been. What a wild up and down roller coaster. Some days I was far from the path and the rod and others I was wrapped tight around it. How do I thank my Heavenly Father for this life he has given me. What words are sufficient? I don't have them but he knows how I feel. Even when I'm wandering around a little to far from the path, he knows.

By the way, Mark and Gary will be here again for our sealing. They were here for my baptism, my temple trip, Tim's baptism and now they will see it all come to fruition. Our little family will be sealed together for time and eternity.

What will we do for an encore after that? :o)

For my posterity (part 2)

2008-09-23T22:32:00.000-07:00

I have always been someone that believed in Christ. I knew that God existed even though at times I had felt forsaken. I had been to many churches as a youth and had tried many with Tim and never found the one that seemed right so it would never last.

In the years of trying to have a baby and not being successful I had all but given up on God. I felt betrayed, hurt and downright angry so I stopped talking to him. Not until I asked that question of Mark did I start thinking about Him again.

Mark I talked a little bit about the church at that time. He explained the LDS church and what it was all about it. As our friendship grew, I gradually asked more questions. Mostly because I'm nosey like that but I also like to think that I was searching again. He would answer my questions but never pushed the issue. Eventually he introduced me to his brother-in-law Gary that happened to also be one of his missionary companions way back when. By this time we were talking on the phone and I got to know him better as well getting to know his family. Mark and Gary both were/are married and each had 4 kids at the time. (they now each have 5, they are competitive like that) As the time went by, I asked more questions and often we would all three talk about the gospel.

It's now April of 01 and get a package in the mail. In it is a whole bunch of Utah goodies and a Book of Mormon with Mark and his wife Denise's testimony written in it. It also had several scripture references highlighted for me. By this time, hubby knew of Mark and Gary and their families even though he thought it a little odd. I can see why looking back on it how one might feel that way but believe me it seemed as natural as anything ever had.

I would occasionally pick up the Book and thumb through it. I would even try to read a few verses but it always seemed like I was reading another language. A few months went by and Mark asked if I had read it yet. I told him that I was having trouble getting into it and he and Gary challenged me to read 10 pages a day. They would also read 10 pages a day and we would meet once a week on the phone to discuss what we had read and so I could ask any questions that came up. I took the challenge and we did just that. Before long, I had completed the entire Book of Mormon. Somewhere along the way, I just knew that what I was reading was another testament of Jesus Christ. I could feel it and it seemed vaguely familiar. That's kind of how hearing about the gospel seemed to me, vaguely familiar.

As the guys told me about a modern day prophet and apostles it all seemed to make sense. Why would God leave us alone in these troubled times. It made sense in my head and then I started feeling the conversion in my heart.

Mark and Gary called the missionaries and in November of 2001 I started taking the discussions. Tim wanted to sit in because he wanted to know just what I was getting myself in to. I had my doubts that these 19 and 20 year old "kids" would be able to teach me anything but I soon realized that they had been given a special mantle to carry. They were on God's errand and each time they taught me, I felt more and more of that sweet warm feeling burning in my bosom. I knew it was true. But more than that, I knew that God knew that I knew that it was true. There was no way of getting out of it. I had a decision to make. To be continued...

For my posterity (part 1)

2008-09-23T22:15:00.001-07:00

As the date of our sealing approaches I have been reflecting on my journey into the church and the years leading from there to here. It's truly been an amazing ride. Nothing short of a miracle. I want my posterity to know more about how this whole "Mormon" thing came to be.

It all started on a blustery fall day in October of 1971. Wait, that might be to far back. Let's fast forward a bit to some random night in November of 2000. Tim is working yet another swing shift and I'm home alone again. We've had our computer now for about 9 months and I'm discovering all the things the Internet has to offer. In the last little while I've found these new fangled things called chat rooms. Here you can go in and talk to people all over the world. Little did I know that doing so that night would change my life forever. In one of these random chat rooms (I honestly don't know which one or what kind), I met a guy named Mark. I know *gasp* I met a guy online. Well, it wasn't like that so stop the gasping and eyebrow raising. This guy was at that very moment "working"at a dam in Utah and was in the same chat room. We started chatting and almost instantly I felt that I had known him all my life. I decided to add him to my instant messenger and from that moment on, we were friends. We chatted for hours about his family, my family, his work, my work and everything else under the sun. Eventually over the weeks the talk turned to religion. I asked him "Do you go to church?" and he said "Yes, I'm LDS"

That little simple question that has probably been asked a million times by a million people changed my life forever. To be continued.....

Is it just me?

2008-09-20T21:33:00.000-07:00

Or does the playlist on blogs bug anyone else. Now, I just love music. It is a part of my life in a major way. It has the power to move to the core and speak to my soul. However, I always turn off the playlists when reading a blog. It turns out that I can't listen and read at the same time. I'm sure there are some great songs on these that I turn off but I just can't take it. Am I alone out there?

Happy Baptism-versary my honey

2008-09-17T06:32:00.000-07:00

Timmer Don,

It's unreal to me that it's been one year ago as of Sept 15th that you joined the church. I can't tell you how much it's meant to me to get to watch you grow and progress in this gospel. It has been a blessing to see you become the man you are today, a priesthood holder and the spiritual leader of our home. I thought I would burst when you gave our son his first fathers blessing. It was such a sweet moment.

Thank you for your faith, your love and your patience all these years. As the saying goes "We've come a long way baby" Our next step is less than a month away and I know it will be wonderful. It's been a long bumpy road getting there but I wouldn't trade it for the world. I know the road will still have a pothole here and there as we continue this journey but I can't think of a single person that I would rather go with. My heart is full of gratitude for you and the blessings we have received.

I look forward to spending the eternities with you.

All my love,

Me

In case you were wondering

2008-09-10T21:49:00.000-07:00

what your hard earned tax dollars are paying for, here's an example.

My sitter picked up my son from kindergarten Tuesday and on the way back to her house she asked him how his day was and asked what he had done. The conversation went like this

Sitter: What did you do today Blake?

Blake: nothing, we didn't even go anywhere

Sitter: well what did you learn in your classroom?

Blake: nothing

Sitter: what did your teacher talk about?

Blake: I don't know, I wasn't listening

Sitter: Blake you didn't listen to anything she said?

Blake: no, but I will listen to you at your house miss Paula

Oh boy, it's a good thing that this is the first year of school and he'll get a lot more practice.

First day of School

2008-09-04T20:37:00.001-07:00

Officially a student

The following picture pretty much sums up the day. It speaks volumes doesn't it?

The first day of school? How in the world did that happen? I'm sure that I just brought him home from the hospital. I can remember it all like it was yesterday. On one hand, I'm glad I've gotten him to the point that he is secure and feels okay about us leaving him in this scary new world and on the other, I wanted him to cling to me and say he wasn't ready to leave his mommy.
Well, that's enough of the mooshy stuff. Today went well. We got up early and he was eager to get dressed in his new clothes and shoes. His backpack was nearly as big as he is. Last night he asked me "Mom, are you and daddy going to walk me to school?" I said yes and he said "Why, I know the way." Such an independent little guy.

Here he is "working hard" with his friend Zach.

This the sign outside the school.

Ready to go.

Okay, who is this big kid and what have you done with my baby?

See, I told you the backpack was just about as big as he is

Good weekend and lessons learned

2008-09-03T06:35:00.000-07:00

We had such a nice laid back weekend together. Now I am back to work for a day and then off again tomorrow for Blake's official first day of school. He went in yesterday for some testing so they could see where he and the other kids were with academic skills etc. Tomorrow will be the backpack and tears day. No tears from Blake of course, he is such a little go getter and always up for a new adventure.

Yesterday after the testing we had some errands to run and some friends to meet for lunch. One of the errands was to go and get some clothes for hubby. While there, Blake found and was playing with some of those little things that go on the hanger to identify the size (they probably have a name but I don't have a clue what it is). We didn't think anything of it until we were at lunch and realized that the little clepto but about 10 of them in his pocket to take home. So, after lunch we went back to the store and made Blake go in and tell the person working there what happened and that he had taken them and that we was sorry. I could tell that Blake was hoping that a giant hole would open up and swallow him so he didn't have to do this. The man was very nice about it and I think/hope that Blake learned a good lesson about taking things that don't belong to him.

Maybe someday I'll be independently wealthy. I could really get used to not working :o) Can't complain too much though as I'm only doing 2 days this week. Well, I could complain but I won't..LOL

Good day

2008-08-29T22:57:00.000-07:00

Slept in till 7ish. House is clean. Errands are ran. Kids in bed and sound asleep (the furry one and the human one). Hubby is happily dreaming away. Tummy is full. Roof over my head. Blessings abound. My heart is full of gratitude this night. What a kind and loving Heavenly Father we have. He is there in good times and bad. My nice warm bed awaits. I thank Thee.

Writers block

2008-08-27T20:43:00.000-07:00

Well, that's what I would have if I were a writer..LOL There is so much going on in my life and yet I can't seem to figure out how to write it all down.

Blake started Soccer for the first time and then we realized, after 3 practices, that he was on a team with 7 and 8 year old kids. Most of them had played before and he was quickly over his head. Not only in skills but attention span as well. He was getting frustrated and so were we. I have called the league guy and he's looking to see if there is a spot on one of the teams that are his age group and first time players. We'll see. It won't be the end of the world if he has to wait until next year to start.

School starts in a week and my baby will be in kindergarten. I have mixed emotions for sure. There will be much blogging, tears and pictures to come.

I have a long weekend coming up and I'm looking forward to it. The last hoorah of summer. I plan on resting, playing, resting and then playing some more. Not necessarily in that order.

In good company

2008-08-19T19:56:00.000-07:00

One of the sweetest and most positive people on the planet, Yvonne, decided that I was worthy of a very nice award. It's hard for me to fathom that I would be in such good company as so many others that have received this award. Thank you Yvonne. You are too good to me.

The award she gave me was created by Jodi . Isn't she talented?

The rules are as follows

You must...

1. Choose 5 blogs that you consider deserving of this award that are inspirational, uplifting, and leave you with a feeling of hope or cheer that contribute to the blogging community, no matter what language.

2. Link them on your blog.

3. Link to the person you received the award from.

4. Leave a comment on the blogs you nominated.

5. Add this link Beacon of Hope as the origin of this award.

6. Post these rules.

It's hard to choose because so many blogs I read fit this description and so many have already received it.

I'd like to give it to

Shay over at http://lovinlifelonghursts.blogspot.com/

Chel at http://chelnic.blogspot.com/

Melissa at http://mejojacspot.blogspot.com/

Corrine at http://4kidsnodog.blogspot.com/

Char at http://amesbloggers.blogspot.com/