Cards Galore!

For Mother's Day I made my mom and mom-in-love some cards to have on hand. I just wanted to keep a record of my creations so I can remember what I like and don't like.I love using paint chips to make cards. At Lowe's they have one paint brand with the square cute out already, it is perfect for card making! Paint chips are great because they're colorful and they're free!

Scarlet Pimpernel Discussion

Finally getting around to posting questions, sorry for the wait. My life has been a little busy the past few weeks, if you want an excuse. ;o) These questions were taken from GradeSaver.com.

1. Do you consider the narrator to be impartial? Does the narrator ally him or herself with a class, a country, a cause?


2. Who is the central protagonist in The Scarlet Pimpernel? In other words, who carries the emotional weight of the novel?


3. How is point-of-view a crucial device in the rendering of Percy? Do we ever experience events through his perspective? How is his heroism dependent upon the way he is seen?


4. At what point does Lady Blakeney become a sympathetic character? Would you consider her an unlikable character as she initially appears?


5. What purpose does the Comtesse de Tournay serve in the larger arc of the novel? Why do you think she disappears after the first section of the book?


6. How does Chauvelin manage to be a threatening villain without ever having to engage in physical combat with the Pimpernel? Is he ultimately threatening?


7. How is the Scarlet Pimpernel flower a larger motif for the themes of the novel? Does it fit Percy as a character?


8. Why doesn't Chauvelin have to die at the end of the book for a successful resolution? Would the novel have been more satisfying with a different resolution, or does the resolution as Orczy presents it fit the tenor of the book as a whole?


9. How does loyalty play a key role in the distinction between Percy succeeding and Chauvelin failing in achieving their goals? Are these respective men's followers equally loyal to their causes? Is their loyalty distinct?


10. Is Percy a less admirable hero for never physically taking on his enemies? What is his ultimate goal as the Scarlet Pimpernel?

Simple Pleasures

I've been tagged by my friend Liz.  Its a pleasant one and easy, so here goes...

List 5 Simple Pleasures.

1.  Listening to Ethan play the guitar and singing with him.

2.  My boys' laughter.

3.  Reading a fun book.

4.  Having a clean house.

5.  Looking at pictures of my family as we've changed throughout the years.

Creative Therapy

Just the other night I spent a couple hours making hair bows, when I was done I was beaming from ear to ear.  I told Ethan, "That is the only therapy I really need!"  I love to create things (especially when they turn out so great!)!  Here is a sampling of my latest creations:

I did a "Baby Shower in a Box" for my sis-in-law in MO.  She wanted some thank you cards and I fiddled around until I got something I liked and could make 15 of...

I also made my sis-in-law a blanket, as I was at Walmart to get ribbon to complete it I found this fabric.  She loves frogs, and so I couldn't pass this up.  I decided to try doing a "tag" blanket for her, this was the result.

Since she is having her first girl, I sent her a bunch of hair bows/clips... I feel like I'm getting pretty good at it now that I've had some practice (let me make it clear that these are the ones I've been practicing on, and are in no way perfect).  I should be rearing to go by the time my baby girl arrives...

My mom's boss went to a scrapbook fair and returned to give my mom some ribbon and flowers. She said she knew we liked to make cards and these were discontinued so they were cheap.  She figured if my mom didn't want them that I would, she was right!  Thanks Barbara!

Sorry some of the pictures aren't very good.  I need to get better at it, if I plan on selling stuff online.  Thanks for looking, its always fun to share what I love!

My new do...

I was able to have my sister-in-law Brindy cut my hair last weekend... what do you think?

I think this is funny...

You Are Pocahantas!

Free-spirited and wise. You have a strong passionate spirit that touches and changes all who know you. The wisdom and common sense that you have is really what guides you through life. Even so, you also have a very playful side that loves adventure and excitement.

Which Disney Princess Are You?

I think this fits me a lot better than Marianne Dashwood, maybe thats because its all positive. I'm so vain!

Why Have a Book Club...

I am currently reading a book entitled, "Men with a Mission 1837-1841 The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in the British Isles."  When I got up at 4 this morning I read a passage that really impressed me.  The section of the book is discussing how important it was for the Apostles to be "observers of the world around them."  Brigham Young advised his son Brigham Jr. in 1862 to

"improve yourself to the utmost in studying good books and in associating with, and listening to, and profiting by, the conversation and experience of good persons."

So, my few fellow readers... thanks for helping me to follow a prophet.  I can read good books, but I need  you in order to follow all of his counsel.  

One other thing that Brother Brigham said (to a different son in 1855) I really liked...

"Listen attentively, and observe minutely the manners, customs, and remarks of all, for from the most humble of our fellow creatures an observing man can learn something that will be useful to him in after life."

I love this!  I try to be observant, but I don't know if I've placed the reason.  I completely agree that I can learn from even the "most humble of [my] fellow creatures."  It just validates that we are each important, not only to our Father in Heaven, but also to our brothers and sisters on the Earth.

Just for fun

I visited a blog recently of a girl I went to high school with, she had a link to this jewelry giveaway and in order to participate I need to link her to my blog... so here are the rules.  This jewelry is beautiful... I hope I win!

Just follow this link to Tickled Pink!  and you'll find the link to her new etsy shop Sass and Savvy Jewelry.  If you like what you see, you can enter too... but only until this Saturday!

UGLIES ***

So, I finished UGLIES by Scott Westerfield yesterday. It was a pretty good book. It was definitely an easy read with an interesting story, but it was lacking something for me. I wasn't totally involved with the characters and the story until perhaps the last section (its divided into 3 sections). The picture is Book 1 (UGLIES) and 2 (PRETTIES) of this 3 book series, the last book is called SPECIALS.

There were certainly things I enjoyed about the book. I really like science fiction, where an author has created some future for our (or other) world. It always intrigues me to see how imaginative an author can be while keeping it somewhat believable. This story takes place about 300 years from the time that the earth is nearly destroyed by humankind, that aspect of the story, to me, was fascinating. I also liked the main characters, Tally (I went back and forth while reading on whether to pronounce it with a long or short "A" sound), Shay and David. They weren't quite as captivating as other sci-fi characters for me, but they seemed real enough and I enjoyed my time with them.

There were things I didn't like about the book as well, most notably, the author seemed to have an agenda and the ending. Westerfield's agenda was mostly illustrated in his depiction of the "Rusties" (humankind before the earth's near death experience). I may be the only person that felt like he was trying to push some tree-hugging, but that was the impression I got. It frustrates me as a reader to feel like the author is using the story to manipulate me. The other thing I really disliked about the book was the ending. You know when you see a movie and its pretty good, but then the end isn't really the end... in order to see the real end you have to see the next movie... that is how this book ends. I feel like the author should just feel confident that he's written a good enough story that he's left the reader wanting more in such a way that will have to read the next one... not because the story isn't finished, but because the reader isn't finished. I don't know if that makes sense, but that is the best I can describe how I felt about the end of this book.

Overall, I enjoyed the book. I don't feel like I've gained any great insights into humanity or into myself, but I enjoyed myself. I'd probably give it 3 out of 5 stars... meaning I liked it. And I will be reading the next books in the series if for no other reason than to get the rest of the story.

Other Fun Stuff

I volunteered to decorate a cake for our Relief Society Birthday Party.  I wanted to do something really springy and this is what I came up with.  I got a little carried away, but everyone oohed and awed, it was fun.  Not what I envisioned, but I liked it alright...and the really important part...the taste, was perfect!  Oh and it earned me the responsibility of teaching a cake decorating class next month.  Anybody have any great ideas for teaching?

I think what I liked best about the cake was the leaf border around the bottom, it was so much fun to make and I think it looked lush and delicious!

Many of you know that I love to make cards, well, these were some fun ones that I "mass" produced one afternoon... they were so easy!  Mass producing is great, because you just cut the same things repeatedly and then glue the same, etc.  Granted, they could have ended up cuter, but for the amount of time and energy I put into them I think they are fabulous!  Then you end up with a lot of cute, handmade cards you can use for any occasion!

Book Tag

Jeni just got her first tag and is really excited! She just tagged me with this interesting one...

Here are the rules:
1. Pick up the nearest book (at least 123 pages).
2. Turn to page 123.
3. Find the 5th sentence
4. Post the 5th sentence on your blog
5. Tag 5 people

Book: UGLIES by Scott Westerfield (my current read)
Sentence:

Tally collapsed onto the bed, covering her face with her hands and sobbing.

Tag: Terra, Liz, KellyAnne, Kim V., Camille

I haven't even gotten this far in the book yet, so I have no idea what Tally is so upset about.

If I didn't tag you and you're dying to do it, please do...if I did tag you and you hate being tagged, please accept my apologies and I will not hold it against you if I don't see this on your blog! ;o)

For book club in my ward last month we read Jane Eyre, we all had different editions and learned that each edition had a different number of pages...wouldn't it be funny if we all had this tag then...

Which Jane Austen Heroine are you?

I found this on a friend's blog and thought it was fun...check it out and post your results in the comments. I don't necessarily agree with this one, but many of the characteristics do fit. Maybe I was just in an emotional mood while taking the test.

Take the Quiz here!

You are Marianne Dashwood of Sense & Sensibility! You are impulsive, romantic, impatient, and perhaps a bit too brutally honest. You enjoy romantic poetry and novels, and play the pianoforte beautifully. To boot, your singing voice is captivating. You feel deeply, and love passionately.

Freakonomics Discussion ***

OK, so now you've read it (or are reading it) let the brawl begin...OK, no brawling actually, let's be nice to each other. :o) I'd love to hear your thoughts on the book and ideas presented therein.

Some of the questions may contain "spoilers" so I have indicated which chapter the question is dealing with if you really don't want to get any info about the content of the chapter before reading it.

• What is the purpose of the book?
  
• From the Introduction:Do you buy Levitt and Dubner's claim that conventional wisdom is often wrong? What is the role of conventional wisdom in society?
  
• From Chapter 1: Why do you think more parents at the Israeli day care came late after the financial penalty was added? Are their situations in your life where guilt is a better motivator than money?
  
• From Chapter 1: Do you believe Levitt and Dubner's findings about Chicago school teachers and sumo wrestlers cheating? Did the findings surprise you?
  
• From Chapter 2: How do you think the Internet is changing the information advantage of experts and secret societies (like real estate agents and the KKK)?
  
• From Chapter 3: Were you surprised by how similar the Black Disciples' organizational structure was to corporations like McDonalds? Why do you think people perceive drug dealers as well off financially?
  
• From Chapter 4: Do you buy Levitt and Dubner's argument that the drop in crime in the 1990s was the result of Roe v. Wade? What are the strengths and weaknesses of their argument?
  
• From Chapter 5 & 6: Do you agree that their is little parents can do to influence whether their children are successful? Do you think there are high-end and low-end names?
  
• Rate Freakonomics on a scale of one to five.
  

Remember, next month's book will be Scarlet Pimpernel, I'll try to post questions before the 15th!

Blogging Woes

I have had a few people have trouble accessing my blog since I change to my "cute" background...so I thought I'd change it to a regular blogger template and see if that fixes the problem.  Please let me know if you're having trouble or if this takes care of it!

Thanks!

April Book

Well, the people have spoken and the book this month is Freakonomics by Steven Levitt. I just finished it today and I think it will be a good discussion...that is, if you'll join me! It is a really easy read (I started it Sunday and only read while the kids were in bed for the night-keep in mind that this prego body of mine cannot stay awake very long while reading).

I do have to warn you that it has some controversial topics discussed and there are a couple of places that have bad language. To warn you in advance, the first happens in Chapter 2, How Is the Ku Klux Klan Like a Group of Real-Estate Agents? (page 70) in a conversation between two guys Kevin and Bob. Its not pertinent, so skip it if you'd like. The next chapter is Why Do Drug Dealers Still Live with Their Moms? In it there is a lot of discussion of gangs and there is a lot of bad language from their quotes. I'm sorry if you're terribly offended by our choice...I honestly didn't know the content when I suggested it, I'd just heard great things about it.

I hope you'll read this one, its not our typical read by any stretch of the imagination. It was quite enjoyable and offers some new perspectives to many subjects. And like I said, it should prove to be a great discussion. I'll post questions by April 8 and then you can respond as you read. Thanks for voting!

Oh, one last thing...since The Scarlet Pimpernel was such a close second (it really could have been a tie, if you read the comments to the post below) we'll plan on reading it in May! I'm going to go get my copy from the library this week.

April Anniversary!

Next month marks my first anniversary with blogging.
Help me celebrate by reading with me!

I'm posting a survey on the right, please vote for your choice to read in April.

Also, in the comments, please give me your ideas for future books.
If you'd like to be in charge of selecting the book and questions
I would love to have you! Let me know!

OUTRAGED!

I love the TV show LOST...this comes as no surprise to any of you. One of my favorite things to do after watching an episode to visit lostpedia to see what other people theorize about happenings in the show. I know its silly, but its fun. I have even had it linked from our family blog under "favorite sites."

Well, last night as I was reading about a new character I noticed on their sponsored links some very inappropriate pictures. I immediately closed that window and was appalled and outraged.

I know a lot of people think that stuff is OK, its the norm...yackety-schmackety. If people want to destroy their minds and spirits by viewing such vulgar material that is their prerogative. However, I choose to not subject myself to such vileness and feel completely angry, indignant, even livid when that choice is taken away from me.

Shame on those that prey on innocent web browsers. I thought I could trust a site and learned, regretfully, that I was wrong. I have since written a letter of complaint to the administrator of lostpedia expressing my concern and hope to make a difference, though I doubt I will-I'm losing my hope in humanity.

So many emotions for one little (and growing) body

So much has happened in the last little while, I have experienced the highest of highs and some pretty low lows. Since there is little evidence that anyone reads this blog anyway, I figure I can "share" some personal feelings. :) This is pretty much written like a journal entry and (as you all know) I am very long-winded. You don't need to feel anything for me, just getting it out there is therapeutic, so thanks for letting me try to make sense of all these mixed up emotions.

Moving really takes it out of you. So does being pregnant. I have been completely exhausted lately and I attribute much of my emotions to that exhaustion. While moving every 3 months isn't my ideal, it the moving itself hasn't been so bad...its the lack of friendship that is really wearing on me. I feel SO isolated going from one place to the next. Don't get me wrong there are definitely nice people wherever we've gone and I have made some friends that I will probably keep in touch with, even if not very frequently. But I miss having friends I feel like I can call and say, "Hey, can I come over, we can let the kids play, we can chat..." I've been lucky to have nice places to live that aren't multiple family units, but along with that, we've pretty much been on our own. With only one car, I get stuck at home all day, except when I take the kids out for a walk. Even then, we haven't lived close enough to friends to walk to their houses. So basically, my need for time with friends has been solely found on the phone (hence 3000+ minutes in one month). I am very lucky to have such great friends and family who will talk to me. My isolation isn't as bad as it could be, thank goodness!

Yesterday, I had an ultrasound. Everything looks good with the baby, measuring about the same as my due date ( a little big, but it is one of my babies). We also found out that we will be welcoming our first baby girl this summer. This filled me with many mixed emotions, best summed up with one word, anxiety.

Excitement, of course! Even though there are many people out there who think I'm not excited, I am truly excited. I have said all along that I would be happy with a girl at this point, but I wasn't dying to have one. You all know that my life's happiness wasn't dependent upon having a girl. I'll be able to do lots of fun things with my daughter that probably wouldn't happen with all boys. I really look forward to that. Excitement is part of anxiety, so it fits with my one word choice.

Another part of my anxiety stems from the change that will happen to our family. Girls are different...in too many ways to even imagine. Granted, most aren't a big deal, but as a whole its a lot of change. For instance, changing diapers will be different. I'll have to explain all the anatomy differences to my boys. We'll be forced to get all new clothes (which of course, could be fun, but $ isn't growing on any trees at our house). Speaking of which, do I keep my boy clothes for future or can I just get rid of them now and possibly be in the same predicament next time around. One other change mostly just affects me, rather than the whole family. I don't know why it matters, but for some reason it does to me. I, for my entire life, have been the "only girl" in my immediate family. That will now change and it is kind of freaking me out. I guess I don't know where I'll stand anymore or something like that. I know that is totally dumb, but my whole perception of the world has revolved around my place in the family and that place has always been the only girl. Anyhow, I have some anxiety about having a girl for all of these and other reasons.

I also have been stressed by the class I have been taking to finish my degree. For those of you who haven't heard this horrid tale, I'll explain. 5 years ago I graduated from Weber State University with a BS in Sociology. However, prior to having Bryant I suffered the loss of a miscarriage and for one reason or another it threw me into a deep depression. (I say "one reason or another" because I have had lots of friends suffer a miscarriage and none of them have been in the throws of despair like I was). Well, the semester I had my loss I was taking Sociological Statistics. I was doing really well in the class, 100% on the first test...then my baby died and with it all my ambition. I stopped going to class, I stopped going to work, I stopped functioning as much as possible without becoming a vegetable (maybe it wasn't that bad). Well, I was able to pull passing grades in most of my classes that semester and a lot of my professors showed mercy, but this one, not so much. I got like 73% on test 2 but I didn't do 5 of the 8 assignments. I clearly had an understanding of what the professor expected me to know as I got 97% on the final. However, because I had only completed 3 busy work assignments I didn't pass the class with a C or better which was needed to fill the requirement for graduation. Well, I was pretty bitter...at the professor and at myself for being a slacker. Finally after 4 years had gone by I decided to do some research to find a class to fill the requirement that I could do either online or independent study; enter BYU Psychological Statistics. Now this class was so much harder than my class at WSU, so it really stressed me out. On February 23, 2008 I took my final exam in the class! It took me over 2 1/2 hours! My brain hurt, it was the hardest test I have ever taken in my life! But I did it...if only I could pass that class my unofficial graduation could become official. Well, wonder of wonder, miracle of miracles I found out today that I passed the final and the class with a B grade! HOORAY!!!! I am so thrilled! So happy! So proud (the good kind)!

And finally, many of you know the many ups and downs of mothering. Well, we have undertaken the biggest roller coaster of all-potty training! Jonas was finally ready and so we have had him in underwear all week. He is doing really well which is super exciting, but of course with success there is also some room for improvement (read-accidents). I have been praying everyday that I can be a good mom and not overreact to these and so far the Lord has blessed me.

I am so thankful for the many experiences of this life, good and bad. I am learning so much about myself and about how to rely on the Lord. That doesn't mean I'm having an easy time. When I'm up, I'm really up....when I'm down, you know how it goes. I can't think of a time I've been so happy, but so morose about it. I'm one mixed up duck, but at least I'm enjoying the journey...because who know where the destination will be.

Austenland ***-

Am I a little past the date I promised for discussion questions? I can't seem to remember...oh well! Did you read the book? It got a nice plug from Terra's blog, so hopefully some of you got a chance to delve in to some fun chick-lit. Even though my brain is totally preoccupied with unpacking and I read the book a few weeks ago, here's my attempt at guiding a discussion...feel free to explore more than just these topics.

What did you think of the story?

What was your opinion of Jane as an Austen heroine? What similarities and differences can you find with Hale's Jane and Austen's many heroines?

Deep down inside, if you're being totally honest with yourself and money were not an issue, would you consider going to a resort like this?

How did Mr. Nobley's character affect you? The gardener? What emotions did you experience with Jane?

What surprised you? What did you predict?

Do the characters seem real and believable? Can you relate to their predicaments? To what extent do they remind you of yourself or someone you know?

Did certain parts of the book make you uncomfortable? If so, why did you feel that way? Did this lead to a new understanding or awareness of some aspect of your life you might not have thought about before?

Hope all is well and to hear from you soon!

Persuasion Discussion *****

I hope you enjoyed the book this month as much as I did. I'll be honest, I was a little worried I would be bored. I have started a couple other Jane Austen books and just couldn't get into them. Of course, that was right after reading Pride and Prejudice (which I loved!) so maybe I was a little biased. Anyway, I loved this one too! I think I enjoyed it just about as much as P&P. What did you think? Here are some questions to get the discussion rolling...

Explain the title.

Austen's humor works, as always, throughout, but would you describe Persuasion as a funny book?

Is Anne Elliot Austen's most perfect heroine? Do you like a perfect heroine?

Is Wentworth Austen's most perfect hero? Are you persuaded that his entanglement with Louisa Musgrove was unintentional? What do you suppose the impact of Anne's presence as spectator had on his attentions to the Musgrove girls?

Is Mrs. Russell a true friend to Anne despite her occasional bad advice? How do you feel about her eagerness to match Anne with Mr. Elliot? (Does anyone feel sorry for Elizabeth when Mr. Elliot suddenly switches his attentions from her to Anne?)

Sir Walter Elliot believes that cold weather has an unfortunate effect on women's beauty. Do you agree? How about hot weather? In which weather do you personally look your best?

In a particularly famous passage Anne Elliot says that men have had the pen in their hands when assigning strengths and weaknesses to the sexes. Now that the pen is in Austen's hands what does she use it to say about men and women?

In Bath Anne begins to believe that Wentworth still cares for her. Why can't she simply tell him she is uninterested in Mr. Elliot? Does this drive you nuts? Would you say something to him if you were Anne?

Is it still the man's job to pursue, the woman's to be pursued?

Did you know???

OK, one last tag and then I'm sure I've reached my quota for at least a year...This one come from Joni and I am supposed to tell you 6 things you might not know about me. This is really tough for two reasons, one, I'm not very exciting and two, I'm an open book. Most of my friends know these things about me. Anyhow, at the risk of boring anyone who actually reads this, here goes...

1. I love being pregnant! I feel so much better about myself (emotionally) and don't worry so much about my perception of my body (physically). It is great! I also love looking for baby names and have it down to a science (one of my favorite baby name books is Beyond Jennifer and Jason and I always check out the social security baby name popularity site). I'm kind of a freak actually...Oh and unlike many moms, I totally look forward to labor and delivery-which is done with no epidural (for my own crazy reasons) but with plenty of help.


2. Ethan and I are currently working on our "set." It includes some Allison Krause, Billy Pilgrim, Josie and the Pussycats, Jack Johnson, Damien Rice, etc. He plays the guitar and I play the "vocal harp" and together we make some pretty good music. Hopefully we'll get to the point where we do our own material at some point! I hope to get to the point where we perform at various venues. I also really want to record an album with him. It is so great making music with the one I love!

3. People from high school know this one, but most of my other friends don't. I was a drama geek and won several acting honors and awards while in high school and a bit in college. I still long for the stage and love any opportunity I get to be in front of an audience...even just speaking or singing in Sacrament meeting. In college I came VERY close to majoring in theater, but couldn't submit myself to all the trash that is out there in the college scene. To this day when I see a high school play I wonder if perhaps I should go back and just do it...I feel like they need me! (I'm so vain!) Its funny to me that in high school and college singing was never my forte (I always loved it, but I was never known for my strength as a soloist) and now it seems to have taken the front seat. One of my life long goals/dreams is to open my own theatre and share what I love with my community.
4. I am obsessed with the Presidential primary race. I truly believe that Mitt Romney is the best choice to be our next President and not just because he's Mormon. I can't say that doesn't affect me at all, but it is by no means the sole reason I think he would be the best for the job. He has proven himself as an incredibly effective and successful leader, something our country is in dire need of. He has an awesome track record of making things that are failing turn around and come out on top, this would be invaluable to our economic situation. And finally he has fought for what he believes is right as Governor even though it wasn't easy. He stuck to it and got the ball rolling in the right direction, I want someone who is willing to fight Congress or the courts if he has to. These and many other reasons (like the fact that he is right on a majority of the issues at hand) are the reasons I am completely obsessed with this race. To be perfectly honest, though, I don't think he'll win, but as you can see I think it will be America's loss.


5. I am a major "LOSTie" and am now playing the alternate reality game Find 815. It is so silly to have a show that I follow so closely, but it is also so much fun! I love having something to look forward to each week. I am also thrilled that they have a plan for ending the show in 3 seasons. I hate the thought of it going on and on and never getting anything resolved. January 31 (the season premiere) can't come soon enough!


6. I have a serious addiction...I am completely and totally addicted to the phone. I wake up wondering who I can call (which is no one...its like 4 or 5 am where my friends live). I start calling people and more often than not don't get answers, but I don't give up...I go through my entire phone list on my phone several times each day thinking of who to call (I don't actually call everyone on my list). If I do get a hold of someone after I'm done talking to them, my finger automatically starts scrolling through the list again. I use over 2000 minutes by myself every month! I attribute this addiction to my love of friends and need for quality time, but still...I need help people!
So there you have it...more than you cared or needed to know about me!

My friend KellyAnne posted some questions on her blog and I thought I'd answer them here. I'm a little embarrassed at some of the answers, but now you know! Her questions are in blue and my answers are in purple.

1. How often do you exercise and what do you do for exercise?
I go for a walk pushing all 3 boys a few times a week. I was running with them, but this whole pregnancy thing took its toll, hopefully I'll be able to pick it back up in a couple weeks when I'll (hopefully) be feeling better. We also really like having dance parties and I always get a good work out dancing around holding each boy in turn.

2. Do you make your bed everyday?
Most days, but if I let the kids into my room its all in vain.

3. What do you do in the evening hours? TV? Blog? Read? Clean the house? ;)
I do all of the above. I generally save folding laundry until the kids are out of my hair and I like to watch TV while I do that. I REALLY hate this writer's strike and I can hardly wait for January 31 when LOST premieres. Then I will watch TV every Wednesday night (for at least 8 weeks anyway!). The only good thing on TV right now are the Presidential Debates. I also get online to blog, check out the latest in the elections, and Find 815 (I'm a total LOST junkie)!

4. What are you having for dinner tonight?
We're having French Dip sandwiches and I can hardly wait!

5. What did you have for dinner last night?
Pot roast, mashed potatoes, and green salad. It was delicious!

6. Who does the dishes at your house? Who takes out the garbage?
So, I've discovered through reading all my friends' answers to these questions how lucky I am...on this one in particular. Ethan and I take turns every other night doing the dishes. It is great! We each get to look forward to when its not our turn, we only have to do half the time, and it gives us an opportunity to serve each other if we're feeling especially giving. Ethan generally takes out the trash, but if the smell gets too bad (we don't have a disposal people!) I do it...lately it seems I've been doing it more and more...you don't think the pregnancy is affecting me do you? :)

7. Give me one favorite cleaning/household tip that you have learned and use regularly.
I'm by no means an expert...my tip is turn on the tunes! Rockin' out while you (and everyone else) clean makes it so much more enjoyable!

8. Do you pluck your eyebrows? I just recently discovered that people do this. I've never even thought about it. Do you do it?
First of all, I can not believe you didn't know people didn't do this, KellyAnne! My friends have been doing it since at least 8th grade. I, however, DO NOT! Never have and hopefully will never HAVE to (I say "have" because I'm sure I could benefit from it, but until it is absolutely necessary I refuse).

9. How many nights of the week does your family have dessert?
Too many! The kids want a treat after every meal it seems. In my defense though, sometimes a treat is just some fruit. In all honesty, we probably have dessert 5 times a week...there I said it, judge if you must!

10. What time do you wake up in the morning, and what time of day do you take a shower?
I wake up at 8:00 am to read my scriptures. The boys aren't allowed to bug me until 8:30. Showering is never on schedule! It just depends on what we have going on for the day! Its supposed to happen between 9 and 10 though.

January Book

Jane Austen has been calling my name for awhile now, so the book for this month will be one of hers that I have never read, but keep hearing good things about...Persuasion. I'll post questions by the 25th of January. I hope we can get a little more participation this time, its been awhile since we've had a good discussion. To get you excited, here's what Amazon.com has to say of this one...

Anne Elliot, heroine of Austen's last novel, did something we can all relate to: Long ago, she let the love of her life get away. In this case, she had allowed herself to be persuaded by a trusted family friend that the young man she loved wasn't an adequate match, social stationwise, and that Anne could do better. The novel opens some seven years after Anne sent her beau packing, and she's still alone. But then the guy she never stopped loving comes back from the sea. As always, Austen's storytelling is so confident, you can't help but allow yourself to be taken on the enjoyable journey



One of the reason I'm dying to do a Jane Austen book is that I am very eager to read a new Shannon Hale book entitled, Austenland. I think we will discuss this one in February, so get your reading glasses ready for some fun chick lit! (sorry guys) Here's a taste of what to expect from this one, quoting Publisher's Weekly...


In 32-year-old singleton Jane Hayes's mind, no man in the world can measure up to Fitzwilliam Darcy—specifically the Fitzwilliam played by Colin Firth in the BBC adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. Jane is forced to confront her Austen obsession when her wealthy great-aunt Carolyn dies and leaves her an all-expenses-paid vacation to Pembrook Park, a British resort where guests live like the characters in Jane's beloved Austen novels. Jane sees the trip as an opportunity for one last indulgence of her obsession before she puts it "all behind her—Austen, men, fantasies, period," but the lines between reality and fiction become pleasantly blurred as Jane acclimates to the world of Spencer jackets and stringent etiquette rules, and finds herself torn between the Darcyesque Mr. Nobley and a forbidden tryst with Pembrook Park's gardener.

One Dog Canoe

I haven't done a children's book for a few days and I came across this one at my last library visit. One Dog Canoe is awesome! Its about a girl who takes her dog in her canoe and then has several animals join in the fun! The illustrations are fantastic, Levi (who loves any book with animals) adores, and so do the older boys because its a silly story. Lots of fun!

The Five Love Languages *****

At Christmas I always get a little stressed trying to come up with the perfect gift for parents, siblings, and nieces and nephews. I don't worry too much about my own kids, though I do try to get Ethan something awesome (usually to no avail).

I am the type of person who really values making something for someone else. This year I did not make one single thing for anyone and it was a surprising relief. Those last minute moments of trying to finish crocheting something, tying the last few stitches in a quilt, or painting the finishing touches on a painting always gets me a little worked-up, but I love that feeling when someone opens a gift that I have put not only my time into, but also a little piece of myself.

I think the reason I feel this way is that my "love language" is quality time. To me, giving my time is the same as giving myself and vice versa. This year, although I felt the last minute relief...I felt a disturbing indifference about Christmas and the gifts I was giving. I'm sure that this was in large part to the fact that I wasn't giving something that told them (in my language) that I love them.

The funny part about it is that some of the gifts I gave were better received than any year's past. Ethan and I were analyzing the reason for this and discovered that the love language of the receiver was probably just different from mine, so the homemade gifts in the past weren't seen as gifts of love, but perhaps... cheap? I racked my brain this year to come up with something satisfactory for some people and in the end came up with something they really appreciated and will use. Success!! I hope that in finding that perfect gift they feel that love I put into their gift even though it wasn't spoken in a language I really understand.

If you have never read The Five Love Language by Gary Chapman, I highly recommend it. It discusses the fact that everyone has a primary love language and argues that there are 5 basic languages with many dialects within each. The 5 are: Quality Time, Words of Affirmation, Gifts, Acts of Service, and Personal Touch. While no one speaks exclusively in one language, they understand and speak one with the most comprehension. I have come to the conclusion that when looking for the perfect gift for the people I love, I have to consider what language they speak, if I'm speaking German and they speak French it won't go over too well, but if I get a French/German Dictionary and make an effort, they will probably get the message.

Book Club

If any of you have ever been to a real book club meeting, you know that lots is talked about that is unrelated to the book, or even books in general. I have been wanting to have a place to talk about everyday things that aren't really for my family blog, so I have decided to use this venue. Check back here if you're OK with posts that aren't all about the kids or what we're doing as a family. I probably won't be doing a whole lot of pictures, so if thats what you're interested in the family blog is the one for you, but if you want to hear whats going on in the mind of a semi-sane mom and what she's reading, join me here anytime. Thanks!

Mommy Tag

1. How long have you been a Mom? Four years, 9 months

2. How many kids call you mommy? 3-although, Bryant and Jonas usually say, "mom" and Levi just yells, "Ma"

3. When you were pregnant did you know what you were having? With Bryant we had the ultrasound and were told it was probably a boy, but to have it double checked...I got checked again and they said it was probably a girl...so we waited to find out til he was born (which is what I wanted to do anyway). We found out with both Jonas and Levi.

4. How old were you when you became a mom? 21 years 10 months

5. How long were you in labor? Bryant 13 hours, Jonas 2 hours of good hard labor (I was on pitocin for about 4 hours before anything big happened...I went from 3-10 in about 90 minutes), Levi 14 hours.

6. What’s your favorite thing about being a mom? The hugs and the "I love you lots mom!"

7. What’s your least favorite thing? All the yelling and noise (from me and the kids)

8. Do you want more kids? Definitely

9. Have you ever taken your kid(s) on a trip?Yup, many trips between Utah and Oregon, Bryant went to Nauvoo and Tennessee with us when he was a babe, several camping trips, and one cross country adventure (although, it wasn't really us that took them0-Thanks mom and dad!)

10. How many times have you been peed on? Maybe once per child...just takes that one refresher to remind me to be prepared.

11. How many times have you been barfed on? Way too many to want to remember...or share.

12. Are your kids named after someone? First names are not really-though we found a common link...prophets and/or their dads. Middle names are for family

13. When is the last time you had a sitter? Dec. 10

14. When your kid gets in trouble, who is the bad guy? If Ethan is home he gets to have the honor, but generally I am.

15. What is the longest you have been away from your kid(s)? Let's see how long was our road trip? Five days I think...HEAVEN!

16. Are your toes painted? Nope

17. Last movie you saw in theater? Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix Last book you read? The Mormon Way of Doing Business (OK, I've read lots of kids books since I finished that one, but its the last one I finished for myself...I'm currently reading A Mormon in the White House?)

18. One thing you will not give up just because you’re a mom: Hopefully, my sanity :)

19. One thing you did give up now that you’re a mom? Sleeping in

20. Favorite Cartoon: Cyberchase and Arthur (its pretty sad when I sit and watch them by myself)

21. Favorite Snack: Granola bars, fruit snacks, craisins, cheese sticks

22. When the kid(s) are napping, you are: Either napping, reading, or blogging..though Bryant doesn't nap he just has quiet time.

23. Where is/are your kid(s) now? Eating breakfast

24. If I could do it over, I’d do this differently: Have more fun

25. What is a lesson you’ve learned as a parent? Patience is a virtue, pride is a vice. Love is the best medicine for everything...hurt bodies or feelings.

I tag...if you want to do it, please do...I'd love to see what you have to say!

Grandpa Takes Me to the Moon

In honor of the shuttle launch that we have anxiously awaited (and continue to wait for) we checked out the book, Grandpa Takes Me to the Moon by Timothy R. Gaffney and illustrated by Barry Root. The boys really enjoy reading it over and over and then they get VERY excited to see the shuttle launch. It was supposed to take place on Thursday and they have tentatively planned it for each day since then, but yesterday they canceled without another date listed, so we're hoping it will still take place this week. The book is about a little boy whose grandpa went to the moon on an Apollo mission and whenever grandpa comes to visit he tells all about it. The little boy imagines that he is with his grandpa on the adventure. Its a fun and interesting book that your kids will probably want to read time and time again.

Children's Book

This week's book is S is for Sunshine A Florida Alphabet by Carol Crane and illustrated by Michael Glenn Monroe. I absolutely love this book and want to buy it for our family library. It goes through the alphabet with things that are special to Florida like, "A is for Alligator..." "B is for Beaches..." "N is for NASA..." You get the idea. Each page has a little rhyme and a gorgeous illustration and on the side it goes into detail about the item for a paragraph or two.

The best part about this book is that there are several volumes. From B is for Beaver An Oregon Alphabet to A is for Arches a Utah Alphabet to P is for Potato An Idaho Alphabet. I really want to collect these from the states in which we have lived and will live. I just checked Amazon and it looks like they have all the states. It looks like they have counting books for the states as well. The books are by different authors, but all published by Sleeping Bear Press. Check it out, I don't think you'll be disappointed!

The Princess Bride Discussion *****

So...we've all seen the movie a hundred times...can quote most of it...now you've read the book (I hope!)...does the book hold the same appeal as the movie for you? Discuss amongst yourselves...

Goldman wrote the screenplay for the film version of The Princess Bride. There are many differences between the two. Identify as many as you can. Why do you think Goldman made these changes? With which of his choices do you agree? Disagree?

Why do you think that Goldman inserts himself as a character in his own novel? Did you feel he was portraying his actual self or a character with his name? What other books have you read where the author adopts this narrative strategy?

The Princess Bride can be thought of as two intertwining tales, one focusing on Westley and Buttercup, the other on the life of Goldman himself (or the fictional Goldman?). How do these two stories parallel and play off of each other?

When we first meet Inigo and Fezzik (my two personal favorite characters), they are working with Vizzini to kidnap Buttercup. Later, they become allies of Westley in his efforts to rescue her. What causes Inigo and Fezzik to change . . . or do they really change at all over the course of the novel?

Compare the relationships between men–such as Goldman and his father, Fezzik and Inigo, Inigo and Domingo, and Goldman and his son–and those between men and women, especially Westley and Buttercup. Which are presented more positively? Why do you think that is?

The "good parts" version is what Goldman remembers his father reading to him from an original S. Morgenstern. Did you ever doubt the validity of this claim? Or the truthfulness of his account of Florin? How would it affect your enjoyment of the novel if both devices were fictional?

Is Goldman laughing with his readers . . . or laughing at them?

Happy Thanksgiving! Children's Book Highlight

I am sorry that I didn't get this posted sooner, I was going to try to do it on Monday, but all 3 kids at the library and getting on the computer don't mix. Anyhow, the book for this week is One Tough Turkey A Thanksgiving Story by Steven Kroll, illustrated by John Wallner.

"Solomon is one tough turkey! And when the Pilgrims decide they must have turkey for their first Thanksgiving dinner, he's not about to let them succeed.

With the help of his wife and his children, Solomon leads the hunters on a wild turkey chase. The results are disastrous...in this slapstick version of the first Thanksgiving." -From the inside cover

The kids have really enjoyed reading this one the past week or two, its silly and fun...just what we needed. It has old school illustrations with very few colors, but the kids didn't seem to mind.

Just FYI, I looked it up on Amazon and the lowest price is $40.00!!! It goes all the way up to $121.17. I'm not sure why that is, but I found it fascinating. Just for the record, I would not pay that much money for this book, but if you can get it from the library, its a fun one!

Children's Book Highlight

I've decided to highlight a children's book each week. It should be fun to try to find new books on a regular basis that we love and can highly recommend. The kids will be a big part of selecting the book that gets highlighted, so if you don't like it...you can take it up with them. ;)

The first book that will get this special honor is one of our very favorites by perhaps my very favorite children's author to date. We love all his book, they are interactive and educational. They are entertaining and most spectacular of all the illustrations are fabulous! I'm sure that you all are at least somewhat familiar with his work and some of you may be as big a fan as we are. Here's a pic of Bryant reading it to Jonas.



Brown Bear, Brown Bear What Do You See? by Eric Carle. I was first introduced to this book by friends (Jared and Lisa)in Sacrament Meeting. They had it for their son and of course our boys were right in their faces, so they let us look at it. I fell in love and decided we needed to get it. It is incredibly simple and stunning at the same time. The kids really enjoy knowing what comes next and it is a great vibrant book that teaches colors, we can also teach animals and their sounds as we read it. The reason this is the highlight book is that it was the beginning of Carle's "true career." For which I am so grateful.

Some of our other favorites of Carle's include:
From Head to Toe (the kids love acting out all the things they and the animals can do).
The Very Quiet Cricket (the last page is a special treat)
The Very Lonely Firefly (again the last page is great for the kids)
The Very Busy Spider
The Tiny Seed
Do You Want to Be My Friend?

Check out Eric Carle's webiste and the website for The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. We love to read Eric Carle's book and we hope you do too!

Next Book...

Well, I guess if you're reading this, you've forgiven me for my slothfulness. Thank you. The next book we'll be discussing is a FABULOUS read! It should be great fun to discuss too. It is...The Princess Bride S. Morgenstern's Classic Tale of True Love and High Adventure by William Goldman. Its a pretty long title, I know. This book was recommended to me by Amy in Oregon and I'm so glad that I found it (I needed a book to read while waiting for Ethan one day at work, we went to the DI and happened upon this beauty!) It is great, I don't think you'll be disappointed, but if you are, do tell!

Eclipse ***

OK, so we've been if Florida, what 5 days? I have already read all of Eclipse, that just proves that Utah is why I was basically illiterate ;) So I'm curious what those of you who read it think...

Those of you who haven't read it (or have no idea what it is) its the 3rd book in the Twilight series.

I liked it, I didn't love it. Probably my least favorite of the three, but I really liked the others a lot so I don't know what that means to any of you. :) I felt like it was a little forced...especially Jacob and he was driving me crazy (not in the good way).

It will be really interesting to see what she does with the 4th (and final?) book in the series. I hope if Bella does change that we get to see what she goes through. If we miss that, I will feel robbed...but then again, she may not change. What do you think will happen?

What did you think of the book? While Heather was reading it, she kept saying it was frustrating...I'd love to hear what was frustrating to you all.

What did you like about it?

I obviously need someone to bounce my editorial off of, so please let's get this party started!

To Kill A Mockinbird ****-

Utah has been very bad for my reading plans...in Oregon I read a book a week or close to it. Since I've been in Utah (more than 2 months people) I have not finished a book-and that includes To Kill a Mockingbird. For that reason I have no idea what questions to post for you all to discuss. However, so you have a place to comment about what you thought of the book, I am admitting my failure and posting this. I promise I will do better in the future, in the meantime...To Kill a Mockingbird.

Poetry

If you read our family blog, you've already heard about this, but since I'm a proud little sister I just wanted to invite you to my brother Sean's website.
He has been writing poetry for as long as I can remember and he is so good! Since I know you all enjoy a good book, I thought you might also enjoy some great poetry. It isn't down and depressing, but it can make you think (see In The Mansions of my Father).
I have enjoyed many of his poems for their wit (see Rubber-necker's Revenge or Jelly Beans) and if any of you know Sean you know he is as witty as they come!
This is the same Sean who has joined us for book club once or twice, he chose the books for this month and please don't let his critique of Twilight keep you from his poetry ;) he is incredibly talented. Anyhow, I hope you all enjoy his art as much as I do!

Your Book Lists (Again)

OK, I have this post at the very bottom of the blog, but I thought it deserved to be brought to the surface again. I want to know what you are reading and what you have been reading. Keeping track of your reads is a great thing for personal history, so use this as a means!

Love you all!

Ender's Game Discussion *****

Ender's Game...FINALLY!!! Did you read it? Did you like it? What did you or didn't you like? Let's get some good discussion going.

Explain the statement, "Sometimes lies were more dependable than the truth." After you explain it, tell whether you agree or disagree with the statement and give reasons to support your answer.

Competition and praising Ender's skills are meant to set him apart from the others. For what purpose is this being done and what are the possible types of consequences of these actions?

Explain the following quote in relation to this story and to your own life: "Individual human beings are all tools, that the others use to help us all survive."

Ender works hard to express his feelings in private and not show homesickness in front of any other person. Is it healthy for him or not? What is positive and what is negative about showing feelings? What is positive and what is negative about not showing feelings?

We learn in this chapter that there is a question of whether it is OK to sacrifice the well-being of a child in order to save the world. What exactly is Ender having to sacrifice? How do you think he is being trained to save the world?

How does Ender react to conflicts? What are his reactions? How would you react to the same events? Is what you would do different from what you would like to do?

My brother Richy added a couple of questions in his post, let's add them to the discussion:

What did Peter represent to Ender, and why was this important? Do we have "Peters" in are lives?

What were the pros and cons of Ender's leadership style? Compare his to Bonzo or Rose de Nose.

Thanks everybody, for your patience and for participating. It is really fun for me to talk about books with you all. Until next time, Happy Reading!

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows *****

BIG THANKS to our friends the Schneiders for letting me borrow their copy of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows!!! I read it in between packing and cleaning (and cooking and kids) Wednesday and Thursday (here I am finishing it up, as you can see, I was really into it. Jonas kept handing me my helmet and was very adamant that I wear it-you know what I always say, "Safety First!") and it was excellent!

I won't be able to get my hands on Ender's Game until we're in Utah so I'll post questions around the middle of the month, for now let's talk about my and possibly your latest read...Harry Potter.

Have you read it yet? Did you like it? What did you predict correctly? What surprised you? What did you like or dislike?

If you haven't read it (or finished) yet, please don't read comments because they will be full of spoilers!

August's Book: Ender's Game

Well, the vote turn out was small and close, but it comes down to Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card for August. It will be a good one for summer and for me in particular since I've got a pretty busy August.



For those of you who want to know what you're getting into here is the set-up (mostly from Wikipedia)

The book takes place somewhere in the near-distant future of Earth. Mankind has made contact with an insectoid alien race known to humanity as the Formics, or colloquially as "Buggers." The buggers have attempted to invade earth twice, having been narrowly defeated the second time by a man named Mazer Rackham, and the threat of the third bugger invasion looms large over the earth.

Enter Ender Wiggin, a six-year-old boy and third son of his parents, an audacity under the population restriction laws, permitted only by special sanction by the government that is seeking the next brilliant military commander. Young Ender is approved by the government for training at the elite Battle School, a space station where children train in armies commanded by older children in mock 41-on-41 battles. Ender chooses to accept the government's offer, leaving behind his parents, his sister Valentine whom he deeply cares for, and his sadistic and manipulative older brother Peter.

The book is mostly about Ender's experience in Battle School and doesn't feel incredibly science fiction to me. In fact, also according to someone who posted on Wikipedia several schools around the world have adopted Ender's Game as required reading, some for its psychological aspects, others for its science fiction background. For example, The Marine Corps University at Quantico as a textbook for the psychology of leadership and Teachers College, Columbia University as an example of online learning

It is really a fascinating book and I think we'll all enjoy discussing it! Until then...Happy Reading!

Twilight *****

July is here and it is time to open our discussion of Twilight by Stephenie Meyer. I'm really excited to hear what you have to say and to see if you liked it as much as I did. Special thanks to my friend Terra for some great discussion questions. Let's get started!

What did you like about the book?

What didn't you like about it?

Were the characters believable? Was the portrayal of vampires realistic or too caricature?

Why do you think the author chose a high school setting for this grown up romance? How would the story have changed if these characters were adults?

As a first time author, how would you as a reader advise Ms. Meyer in future writing endeavors?

The story has been picked up for possible production into a movie, who would you love to see cast in the roles?

Argue for or against Bella becoming a Vampire.

Why is Edward so against Bella "changing" since he holds no animosity towards Carlisle for changing him?

Edward says he is a selfish being--how is keeping Bella human selfish?

And away we go...

The Devil in the White City **

Sorry it has taken me so long to post the questions for this one. I still haven't quite finished it yet, but decided to get these up in case anyone has something they are dying to say. I've decided to try a different format this time of posting all the questions in one post, that way all the comments regarding the book are in one spot. Hope it all works!

I really am enjoying this book. It is harder for me to read than most of the books I've read, but I think it is the first historical nonfiction book I have attempted. I am sure I will have more to say (I always do), but for now, here are the questions.
They are in sub-categories:

Building the Fair
*Given living conditions in Chicago, what do you think drew people to the city?

*What do you think about the choice to use classical architecture rather than looking toward modern architecture?

*What did you think about the partnership of with Burnham and Root?
Do you think it takes a creative side and people skills to be able to
run a good business?

*How do you think Root's death affected the work?

*If you had your own island at the World's Fair to design what would you do with it?

*Would you have chosen Chicago architects for the Fair or brought in the best the country had to offer?

Murder at the Fair
*What do you think drew Holmes to the women that he killed?

*Why, after all he did, would guards still care for this man?

*How could so many crimes be kept a secret?

*Holmes said there was a devil in him from the time he was born. Do you think that is possible? Are some people made to be that way?

Writing of the Fair
*Did it come off well as a story or was it more like a documentary?

*Would the book have worked better for you if it had followed only one of the two plots? Which one would you have preferred to read?

*Generally speaking what did you like about the book? What did you dislike about the book?

There is plenty to talk about, let's dig right in!

I Am a Mother! ***

This was a great book, last night I was pretty tired, so I didn't do a real review of the book. Today, having slept on it and considered things I am ready to tell you why it is a great book.

It starts as a Cheerleader for motherhood, which is good, but not what I wanted/needed. I, like many of you, have always wanted to be a mom. Even now, though I go crazy with my boys daily, I can hardly wait to have my next child and the next for however many nexts there will be.

It moves on after a couple chapters and here is where I really liked it. She refers to our willingness to submit our will to God's as being a pencil in the hands of God (she got this from Mother Theresa). I am just a pencil, He does the thinking, the writing, the pencil has to only allow itself to be used. As a mother I think this is extremely important. I have a hard time looking at the BIG picture and God in his perfectness sees it all the time, that is why I need to be a pencil in his hand.

She talks about how Satan is really trying to make us, as mothers, feel badly about ourselves and our role because if we quit, his job is a lot easier. Its always good for me to remember that he is always on the offensive, trying to beat me down. It validates that my feelings are real, but I have the power to crush his head!

Chapter 5 is entitled, "Can I Quit Now?" Her experiences have been difficult, making mine seem less than trivial, but to me my trials are real and daunting. I have often found myself on my knees saying, "I can not do this, I really, really need thy help. PLEASE, help me today!" In this chapter she debunks some myths that we too often buy into. I loved some of these, especially #1: You will be in control...you are the mother after all! She says that the real trick is to keep control over ourselves and our behaviors and reactions when everything is out of control, that is when we teach our children real, valuable lessons.

The last thing that left a deep impression on me is that we spend way too much time judging one another when we ought to just love and support each other. I find myself looking at others and comparing myself all too often. I also get my feelings hurt sometimes and begin to feel that some think themselves to be better than me. Its like I'm in junior high school! Walking in each others' shoes is important, our experiences are all different, just like we are all different. Love and support are what matter.

So, I confidently say to you all...I AM A MOTHER!

I am a Mother...and a daughter

I received and read I Am a Mother today. It was a great book that really made me think. The sociology major in me was fascinated by the societal judgments of mothering. Its interesting that those on the outside looking in and those that are in our same circumstances can have such strong opinions about the role of mothers. I found myself thinking about how I feel about myself as a mother. I don't think I'm particularly good at it (not that I'm terrible, either) but it made me question why do I feel that way about myself?

Well, I have an amazing mom, but I unfortunately have treated her unkindly too often. I have focused on the few negatives rather than the profuse positives, this has undoubtedly clouded my opinion of myself as a mother as well since as we judge we will be judged (even if its just judging ourselves). I have always loved and admired my mom, she just deserves much more respect. So, in an effort to change this I give you an homage to my mom.

My mom is the most loving person I have ever met--truly. She loves everyone and you can not come into her home without feeling it.

My mom loves to serve. I haven't always supported her efforts, but she honestly loves to do things for those that she loves. My dad is one lucky guy, she takes care of him constantly.

My mom loves to laugh. She also loves to have others laugh. Making others happy is her ambition in life.

She can zone out of anything going on around her if she is watching a good TV show, especially Murder, She Wrote.

My mom doesn't like it when others are hurting. Whenever someone was being teased or "tricked" she just couldn't let it go on, much to the chagrin of some. :)

She is hands down the best cook I've come in contact with.

She really loves sports, but she gets really into it so she can't always watch. When we played soccer she would run along the side line kicking her foot out as if she were on the field.

She was and is incredibly supportive. She never missed anything that I did in school, be it a play, a concert, or a game. Not only that, but she enjoyed it. Even now, she has coerced my dad into being present for all of Bryant's birthdays.

She is an amazing seamstress. She has sewn me some magnificent gowns (including my wedding dress).

She is genuinely happy and it radiates from her.

She is a great storyteller.

My mom is one of my very best friends. She is a good listener (most of the time) and she gives good advice.

She is a fantastic teacher. She has so many talents and she is so willing to share her wealth with anyone willing to sit down beside her and learn.

She is very devoted and teaches me almost daily to be so.

My mom is the epitome of an optimist. She always wants to believe that the best will happen.

My mom can not hold a grudge. She forgives more readily than anyone I know. For this, I am very grateful.

My mom has a testimony of the gospel and she knows that the Savior lives and that He loves her. She has helped me to gain my testimony of these things.

I love my mom for these and many other reasons. She inspires me to be a better mom and a better person. She is incredible!

Which Harry Potter Book is Your Favorite?

OK, I haven't been able to read The Devil in the White City yet (waiting for the library) but I've been busy with my other books for the summer. I have read Harry Potter, books 1-3 so far. I have never read 1 or 2 before this and all the others I have listened to. They are the most entertaining audio books, Jim Dale does all the voices and he is amazing! (Trying not to use that word too lightly, he's really that good!) I have really enjoyed all of them. They are easy to read and so entertaining. I think thats one of the reasons I like to read Young Adult fiction so much, its written to get young people to love reading.

So which of the Harry Potter books is your favorite? Least fav? Why? What characters do you love, hate, etc? Did you like the movies? I'd love to hear your speculation for book 7 too!