Chasing Dreams...

Gratitude...day 11

2011-11-11T12:36:00.001-06:00

Today I took my children to the state Capitol to view the All Veteran's memorial. Here in N.D. a memorial has been built to honor and remember those who have served our country. At 11:00 a.m. the sun shines through a hole that then directs the sunlight to hit the state of N.D. on a bronze globe. It was good to be surrounded by those who want to remember.

To view picture link click here.

I am grateful for those who have served in the past and those who continue to serve today in defence of not only our freedom but for the freedom of all people. Specifically, I am grateful for my brother Rusty and for my grandfather Dean Summers who both sacrificed much to serve our country.

To view picture link click here.

I am grateful to be an American!

Gratitude...day 10

2011-11-10T21:53:00.001-06:00

I have A LOT of cousins. Someday I will add them all up but not tonight, it is time to go to bed.. I am so thankful for my cousins! Some of my favorite memories come from the times I have spent with them. I don't know about you but I sure have been blessed with some of the choicest friendships on earth with my cousins.

As a little girl I longed for a sister but my sisters did not come until my mom was done bringing my three brothers to this earth. So to fill the longing in my life, my girl cousins became like sisters to me. There is no doubt in my mind that we knew and loved each other before we came to earth. I am so grateful that we were sent to the same family and that we have the chance to continue to know and love each other here.

The link to where I copied the pictures.

Gratitude...day 9

2011-11-09T21:31:00.000-06:00

Have you ever had the unfortunate experience of police lights suddenly appearing in your rearview mirror? That's where I found myself tonight. I thought for sure it was because Macie was riding in the front seat of the car. I let out a groan as I also realized that I did not have my purse with me. I pretty much knew that I was in super big trouble. My girls started to panic but thankfully I felt calm inside.

picture link

As the police officer approached my vehicle, I rolled my window down and was very upfront with him over the fact that I knew why he had pulled me over. He smiled at me and said, "You do?" He laughed and asked me the reason for my being pulled over. Out came all the ramblings over the fact that I knew that my daughter should not be riding in the front seat of the car. I then also let him know that this was not my only problem and I told him about not having my purse with me. I have to tell you that I was pretty much ready to take whatever he had to give me as far as a ticket goes. I knew that I deserved it but this officer was so kind to me. He told me that the reason he had pulled me over was because my rear taillight was out and that I needed to get it replaced. I could not believe it! After he checked my name to make sure I had no warrants out for my arrest, he let me go with a promise that I would never allow my daughter to ride in the front seat of the car again and that I would always carry my license with me. I made the promise and as I left, I felt so grateful. I was treated with decency and respect and I did not have to pay a fee that really would have not been a welcome thing in our lives right now. I learned some lessons as did my girls and we came home happy! Oh the sweetness that is still ever so present in dear Bismarck, North Dakota!

Gratitude...day 8

2011-11-08T14:04:00.003-06:00

Going along with my gratitude for day 7, I feel such deep, inexpressible feelings of gratitude for my Savior. Have you ever pondered over the majesty of His love for you? I cannot fully express the feelings in my heart for Him. I love Him, He is my truest friend!

In expressing my gratitude for Him today I would like to share with you a clip from what has become my favorite music to listen to. Since becoming familiar with this music I have felt the Spirit more abundantly in my life. When I lie down at night and when I wake in the morning, the words from this compilation are going through my mind. I know that the words sung and spoken as well as the composition for the instruments were inspired by God and that they are true. This eloquent piece of music by Rob Gardner, is my testimony of Him to you. He is my hope and I am so grateful.

Gratitude...day 7

2011-11-08T08:59:00.000-06:00

I am going to have to say that since I keep lagging behind on my gratitude posts that I am so grateful for repentance and not just because I can't seem to get a post done everyday. Repentance has meant so much to me in my life. I use it every day.

I am not the same person because of it. It has allowed me the chance to change and work at becoming a better person. I am grateful for the power found in these two simple yet powerful words, "I'm sorry." This is the picture link.

Gratitude...day 6

2011-11-06T23:02:00.000-06:00

Such boring titles for my blog these last few days but that is the way it's going to be until Thanksgiving...sorry folks!

Man I am just so grateful for so many things today. It has been such a good Sabbath day! I think though that for today I will shout out that my cinnamon rolls were successful! I have tried for years to make scrumptious rolls and have always come away disappointed but today, oh yeah baby (I'm shouting), they actually turned out sooooo yummy. I couldn't believe it myself, but truly they did. Thanks so so much to my dear friend Tracy, and her really good recipe, I was successful! I thought I would be kind and share the recipe with you. I hope that if you try them that they turn out for you too!! Enjoy!

Cinnamon Rolls

(Great for hot rolls, too, just form into balls rather than the rolling out thing)

4 T. oil
4 T. sugar
2 t. salt
2 T. yeast
4 c. warm water
12 c. flour (aprrox)
Brown sugar
A cube of butter or margarine
Cinnamon

Mix water, sugar, salt and yeast till yeast is dissolved. Add oil and stir in enough flour to form a batter. Stir well then add enough flour to form a soft dough. Knead well. Dough will be sticky if you sink your hands into it but not so sticky that you can knead it. Just slowly add flour so it isn’t at the too sticky stage but not tough either.

After you have kneaded it well then place it in your big bread bowl with greased sides and bottom. Cover with waxed paper or a moist towel and let it sit until it has doubled in size.

After it doubles, punch down and divide in half so it is easier to work with. Rub shortening or oil onto the counter about the size you will need to roll the dough. It helps to grease the rolling pin as well. Roll out the dough till it is about ½” thick about 16 x 20. Soften ½ cube of butter or margarine (not melted just squishy) to rub all over rectangle. Next rub on the brown sugar. I honestly can’t remember how much. It was a visual thing. ( I am thinking maybe ¾ to 1 cup?!?!) Just sprinkle it on the buttered dough and spread it till the dough is covered with brown sugar. Then sprinkle cinnamon on and rub it onto the top of the dough, too. Then you are going to roll it up. You want to do this length wise. When you get to the end of the roll, pinch the edge into the dough so it doesn’t fall open. Slice the roll into 1” slices. Place them in the greased pans so they are touching each other but not squished. Let rise again and they will poof up and fill in all the empty spaces between them.

Bake for 17 – 20 minutes at 400 degrees. Let set for 5 minutes then add frosting.

Frosting:
1/3-1/2 c. butter, softened
3-4 c. powdered sugar
1 t. vanilla
milk, enough to make a soft but not runny spread
Mix with a mixer until smooth.

When I made them it made:

1 Oblong pan (9x13) and 4 pie plates

Gratitude...day 5

2011-11-05T23:35:00.001-05:00

I am grateful to finally have decorations hanging on my bedroom walls! After living here for more than a year, it feels good to walk into the room and feel the welcome that comes from decorations. Decor always makes a house feel like a home.

Gratitude...day 4...a day late

2011-11-05T23:31:00.000-05:00

I have wanted to do a post about my mom and have decided that today she will be the spotlight for what I am grateful for because I am so grateful for her! I have several strong memories in relation to my mom. I thought I would share just a few.

picture link

When I was three years old I distinctly remember riding in the front seat of the car with my mom. We were travelling home from a baseball game that my dad had played in and so it was after dark. We lived on a dairy farm and had to climb a small hill in order to reach our home. I vividly remember seeing the moon as we crested the hill and feeling such a warmness inside of me. I could not keep silent over what I seeing and feeling and expressed to my mom, "Heavenly Father must sure love us to give us such beautiful things." She confirmed that He did.

I remember a time when I must have been about nine, getting quite upset and feeling that no one loved me. I decided that the only thing I could do was to run away. It was a cold, rainy day but with my suitcase in hand I "ran away". I made it over to my grandma Bingham's home but as they were away on a mission I sat there on the porch and cried, really believing that no one did love me. To my surprise, out of the blue appeared my mom. She came and put her arms around me and with tears in her eyes told me that she loved me and wanted me to come home. I was so grateful to hear her speak those words to me.

I attribute my first love of the temple to my mom. Each time we drove to visit my grandparents in Ririe, Idaho, my mom would ALWAYS have us look to find the temple. As we drove by it, she would remind us that she had been married there and that we would be married in the temple too.

I regularly look to my mom as I face the hard times that I do. My mom is not a quitter and she is one that has got some pretty tough grit! Whenever I feel that life is getting to be a little too hard for me, my thoughts turn to her. I always think to myself, if she can do what she does then I can do what I must do. What an anchor she is to me!

My love and admiration for her have grown leaps and bounds as I have grown older. I have come to recognize truly what a special daughter of God she is! There was a time, and it lasted far too long, that I did not see the good in my mom but I want you to know that today I count having her as my mom as one of the greatest blessings I have received here on earth! I have learned so much from her and I hope that someday my children will come to feel towards me the way I feel towards my mom for my mom is an elect lady and I love her!

Gratitude...day 3

2011-11-03T22:25:00.002-05:00

Today I am thankful for the outlook of a beatiful day tomorrow!

Check it out...

Friday: Sunny, with a high near 55. South wind between 14 and 18 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Picture link

This weather is almost too good to be true! I think I will spend some time soaking up some rays!!

Gratitude...day 2

2011-11-02T11:27:00.000-05:00

I am so grateful

to be a part

of an eternal family!

Where would I be without my family?

An Attitude of Gratitude

2011-11-01T13:24:00.002-05:00

I love these two quotes by past Relief Society General President, Sister Bonnie D. Parkin:

"Mercies and blessings come in different forms--sometimes as hard things. Yet the Lord said, 'Thou shalt thank the Lord thy God in all things' (D&C 59:7). All things means just that: good things, difficult things--not just some things. He has commanded us to be grateful because He knows being grateful will make us happy. This is another evidence of His love."

"Gratitude is a Spirit‑filled principle. It opens our minds to a universe permeated with the richness of a living God. Through it, we become spiritually aware of the wonder of the smallest things, which gladden our hearts with their messages of God's love. This grateful awareness heightens our sensitivity to divine direction. When we communicate gratitude, we can be filled with the Spirit and connected to those around us and the Lord. Gratitude inspires happiness and carries divine influence."
Bonnie D. Parkin, "Gratitude: A Path to Happiness," Ensign, May 2007, 35

Don't you just love those quotes? I love how she gives specific promises that are linked to being grateful. With it being the beginning of November and as I am anxiously looking forward to the day when we can celebrate our blessings with a bounteous meal, I have decided to blog each day leading up to Thanksgiving, highlighting the things that I am most grateful for and I am going to challenge each of you to do the same. Many good things come into our lives as we recognize the blessings we have been given. I hope you are up for the challenge!

With all the wonders that are in this world, it continues to amaze me to know that I really do matter to Him!

He loves me for me. He is not a stranger to me, He is real and for that I am most grateful!

picture can be found at: http://lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=024644f8f206c010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD&locale=0&sourceId=33d51859fa5f8110VgnVCM100000176f620a____

A Perfect Halloween's Night

2011-11-01T10:37:00.001-05:00

"Wow" pretty much sums up our Halloween night! It could not have been more perfect...no coats, snow pants, mittens or hats. I put on a light sweater and off we went to trick or treat. It was so fun to be with the kids and walk the streets of our neighborhood. We live in an older part of town and a lot of the residents are the elderly. It brought me so much heartwarming joy to watch our neighbors interact with my children. It was so awesome!

The kids came home with way too much candy and they hate my rule that you get to eat as much as you want for one day and then it goes away. I told them that if they wanted to pay the dentist bill to cover the cost of a filling or two that I would be okay with letting them eat ALL of their sugary things. They were not too hip on that idea so maybe they will take me up on giving me all their extra candy tomorrow. The candy won't be wasted though as it will fill the Bishop's candy bowl at the church! Oh the perks of having your husband as the Bishop!! How do you handle all the candy your kid's come home with after a fun night of trick or treating?

Here are the pictures of the kid's dressed up. This is what Blake wore to school. He made me laugh so hard! He decided that he does NOT like having long hair!!

Here is our ballerina Macie,

our scarecrow Erin,

our phantom Cody,

and our Frankenstein Blake.

Okay, now how cool is it that we were able to trick or treat at the Governor's residence

as well as the Temple President's home?

We had a BLAST!

Little Macie on the Prairie

2011-10-28T09:47:00.000-05:00

Macie's 2nd grade class is studying pioneers and today the students were invited to dress like a pioneer and bring a pioneer lunch to eat in the "one room school house" aka their classroom.

She was so excited to get dressed up this morning.

Isn't she the cutest little pioneer girl?

Simple Advice

2011-10-27T12:14:00.002-05:00

Enough said.

via http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Dont-Die-For-Love/272008436166461

Do You See What I See?

2011-10-26T09:53:00.001-05:00

I love the holidays as such goodness abounds during this time of the year! We were surprised to get a plate of cookies dropped off at our doorstep two nights ago. As to who these yummies were from, we are not quite sure but we have our suspicions.

Do you see how special these cookies are? I didn't see it at first, but now I do. At first I took no thought about the size of the hands that frosted each cookie and then showered it with the cute Halloween sprinkles.   All I was thinking about was how yummy the cookie tasted and how thoughtful it was to have a treat shared. But as I sat there nibbling on my cookie, I saw it and with it came such a flood of good, happy thoughts and feelings. For the first time I really saw the cookies. Do you see them too? Look closely.

I don't know why I was struck by such a simple, innocent thing but suddenly I recognized the size of the hand that spread the frosting and shook the sprinkles over the cookies we were eating.   I suddenly noticed that these cookies were not Martha Stewart perfect and the recognition could not have made me happier.  As I came to really see, my face was overcome with an even bigger smile than had been there before. Why had I not noticed it before?   Of course I knew that a family was involved in making these cookies but for some reason I had not taken the time to consider that all the cookies had been decorated by children, that a mother and father had allowed their children the blessing of feeling the joy that comes in preparing a gift for someone else.

I thought of my own children and the experiences I have had with them as we have decorated cookies. I remember when they were especially young, looking at the cookies they had made for the neighbors and wondering if the neighbors would even dare eat a cookie made by their little hands.   It wasn't until I sat eating the cookie made by another little hand that things came full circle for me. I suddenly felt what I hope all those dear neighbors of prior years must have felt ~pure joy!   And why?

Because...
Somewhere close-by is a young mother and father doing there absolute best to provide opportunities for there children to do good.  They are meek and humble in that they allow there children's gifts to be given as they were made, with no disposition to be seen as a "picture perfect family." Actually what you see on the plate is in my mind picture perfect because things aren't perfect. They appear as they are the picture of learning, of growing and most importantly, of being happy along the way.

What a sweet experience this turned out to be! I am so grateful for the kindness given to our family but most of all I am thankful for seeing what I had not seen before...the picture perfect plate of Halloween cookies. Isn't it wonderful?!

Crinkly Leaves

2011-10-21T09:39:00.003-05:00

It's autumntime.

The leaves are falling down.

It's autumntime.

It's all around the town.

(Text taken from Children's Songbook, "It's Autumntime", pg. 246)

Leading the Tired Feet

2011-10-19T14:25:00.004-05:00

I have spent a great deal of time pondering the purpose of the challenges we face here on earth. I don't know about the specific paths your life has taken. I assume that it is much like mine in that you have experienced the unexpected twists and turns that have led down a road that never ever was foreseen! I am understanding more than I have before that this life is real and sometimes quite painful. I have come to realize more than I did before in that the moments that are the hardest are the moments that bring us the closest to the ones we should love and care the most about...

Heavenly Father

Jesus Christ
Family

If you will permit, I would like to share with you one of the harder trials I have had to face in a very long time. I recognize that this trial might be minimal in comparison to what you are facing right now but for me it is very real and has involved real growing. I have felt for some time the need to share some of what I have learned from all of this.

You would think that after having been on what I like to describe as a remote island for these last nineteen months of my life, that life would be all sorts of adjusted and such...that perhaps my life would feel settled with warm homey feelings flowing out my front door...that the sign with the greeting "welcome home" would ring truth and comfort in my heart. The truth of the matter is, I am not yet there. I have not yet reached that place of feeling like I am "home". Now please do not misunderstand me. My life is not all bad out here on the grassy, prairie plains for I have been blessed to meet some very choice people who have become good friends to me but there are moments when I do feel a kinship, even an understanding of the challenge Lot's wife faced as she left the comforts of her home, her familiar surroundings, and what must have been dear, treasured friends. There is within me the tendency to look back and sadly it comes with such tender feelings reminding me of what once was and what might have been. Goodness gracious, I can not adequately express the homesick feeling that continues to linger in my heart. I continue to struggle as I wonder if this place will ever feel like home to me.

It is during these aching moments when miracles begin to take place. It is no small thing to sense when growth is occurring within our soul. These moments, when the heart feels that it can take no more and when tears are watering the pillow, allow for a precious, tender mercy to be extended. There comes an open armed reach and the only one who can bring any comfort at all, completely and totally envelops us in the arms of His love and there He is, ready to help.

It is no small thing to feel and know that He is always there. I am learning more than I ever have before the truth that He truly does love me. No matter how short I fall, or how often I struggle in accepting my new life here, He loves me regardless. Though I am not all that I should be right now, He is patient in my efforts to wake each new day and give it another try.

One of my all time favorite scriptures is Philipians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." This verse has been my anthem during any hard time I have had to endure. I readily acknowledge that I have had to lean on it often. It was only recently though that my eyes were opened to the true strength found within this verse. I was directed to study the preceding two verses. Paul states, "...I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need." I was struck by the powerful phrase, "I have learned" which then leads to the powerful declaration, "I can do!" In answer to my prayers, I was reminded of my need for proper perspective when dealing with my mortal experiences.

I often ask the Lord, "What is it that I am to learn here in North Dakota?" I don't believe that the complete answer has come to me yet but one of the many things that I have learned is this: no matter what my house looks like, both on the inside or on the out, no matter if I have to shop at a thrift store or can afford the trendy shops in the mall, no matter if I get my hair colored by a professional or have to buy a bottle and do it myself, no matter if I weigh 200 pounds or 100 pounds...I still matter!

Right now, I am learning the principle of accepting, even being content, recognizing that all that I do have are blessings that the Lord has given me, right now, today. I see more clearly how my view nineteen months ago was distorted by the things that matter least. I am learning that the things that matter most, aren't things. I am learning that the worth of all souls is not based on what we see on outside.

What a wonderful gift it is to know that we are here for a purpose and that purpose is to learn, to progress, and to become. The true power of learning and progressing comes from the strength that only Jesus Christ can give! It is He alone that leads our tired feet, into pastures green and sweet.

Happy Birthday Cody

2011-09-14T08:49:00.007-05:00

It is hard for me to believe that Cody has become a teenager! Really, it only seems like yesterday and he was my little Jedi. Cody has always brought joy into our family. He has helped keep my on my toes too! I loved watching him play as a little boy. What an imagination he had and he was such an entertaining imaginer! I remember well one day looking into the backyard and seeing Cody with Chris' cowboy boots on (they went up passed his knees), a superhero cape on, and a jedi sword in his hand. He was running all over the yard, slaying the imaginary bad guys. I don't know how we ever got so blessed to receive such a fun spirited child into our family but I will be forever grateful!

Cody had a soccer game the evening of his birthday and he played an outstanding game. Chris did a good job of embarressing Cody. Right before the game began, Chris called out to Cody, "Happy Birthday Cody!" All of the team members then started to ask Cody if it was his birthday and then responded by giving him the same birthday wish. It was awesome! It brought big smiles to our faces as we watched him with his friends.

Cody's birthday meal request was a shrimp boil. One word of advice in regards to this meal...DO NOT ever cook it inside of your home! Holy moly, the spices that you put in it were so strong we were all coughing and gagging from them. I have always cooked it outdoors and had no idea that it would do such a thing. It made for some pretty good laughs as we could not stop coughing until the meal was done cooking, which took about 40 minutes. I will say about the boil though, it was the BEST one I have ever made and I think that it was due to the fact that I used a smaller pot and so my water content was much less. It was SPICY!
For the last month Cody has been dropping some pretty big hints about the things that he would like for his birthday. Two of those things were a hermit crab and a coconut. I found an aquarium at a yard sale for a buck and so I decided that I would be okay with getting the crab. Crazy how a screaming good deal will help you in making a decision! The coconut was an easy choice and fun to watch as he tasted the milk form the coconut. Good times for sure!

Cody wanted a peanut butter chocolate pie which was super easy to make and was pretty tasty too!

It was a good day for Cody and for our family as well! I know that at times I make comments about now having 3 teenagers in our home but I have to share a little secret with you...I LOVE IT! There are challenges that come with these years and lots of fears, but overall our boys have made us very happy and have become such good friends with each other as well as with us as their parents. I am grateful to be a mother during this time on earth! Cody, we love you and are so proud of you!

Labor Day

2011-09-06T11:27:00.003-05:00

We had a fun day celebrating Labor day. We could not have asked for a more perfect weather day as the sun was shining and it was warm but not hot. Cody has been drawn to go on a special deer hunt here in North Dakota and so he needed to practice shooting with the gun that he will be hunting with. We drove to the shooting range at the south end of town and we disappointed to find that it was still mostly under water. We decided to shoot near it though and while it was not an ideal place for Cody to site in the gun, we still had a fun time being outside. We were able to climb a small N.D. mountain and the girls and I shot BB guns at our own target. Erin was so good at shooting, she was able to take a flower clean off of its stem.

Can you see the small mountain in the background?

I love how Macie is aiming her gun

Erin and I

Cody taking aim

Phew, he's done for the day (Cody had a pretty sore arm after he was done.)

Macie has a Test

2011-09-06T11:13:00.004-05:00

A few weeks back Macie and I spent a few hours at the hospital for a test that Macie needed done. She has been having recurring UTI's and so her doctor wanted to see if she had any kidney problems, or if there was something wrong her urinary tubing leading from the kidneys to the bladder. He also said the scary word, "tumor", to see if she had any in her bladder. I was a little nervous about the whole thing as we have never had any serious medical problems with our children but now that it is over and everything is okay, I can say that I marvel at medical technology and the tests that can be done.

Here is Macie on the table and machine she had to be on for about three hours. They filled her bladder full of liquid and then took pictures as the bladder was emptied. Macie was partially sedated during this procedure and when her bladder became very full she began to cry. It was so hard for her to go to the bathroom while laying down. It made me as her mother get all teary. I am such a baby when it comes to things like this. I did not like seeing her in pain but once she was able to go to the bathroom all was well again.

Here is the image that we were able to watch as they filled the bladder with the liquid. It was pretty amazing because it also allowed us to see the tubes that led from the kidneys to the bladder.

This is while we were waiting between pictures. They had to place a dye in Macie to take pictures of the kidneys.

Here we are heading back to have her I.V. taken out and to go home. Macie was STARVING afterwards as she had not been able to eat or drink since the previous night and so she had a special treat of going out to McDonalds for lunch. She was so hungry that she scarfed the whole meal down and was still hungry. I called her my "hungry little caterpillar".

Sixteen Candles

2011-09-02T06:53:00.007-05:00

It is so hard for me to believe how fast the time has gone. It only seems like yesterday that my oldest Zach was born and now he has turned 16. What a blessing he has been to our family. He is developing into such a fine young man and we love him and are so proud of him.

We had a birthday weekend for Zach...and when I say weekend, I mean the WHOLE weekend.

The night of his birthday was good fun. Zach had a band performance and so he was not able to attend the father and sons campout. After he finished with band I asked him what he would like to do. We went and grabbed his free birthday meal at Paradiso's and then invited his friends to come over. Can I just say that I am so grateful for the friends that surround him? He has been so blessed with good friends who have high standards and help make it easier to choose the right.

One of his friends brought over a small cake for Zach and we loaded it with all 16 candles. We also enjoyed pizza and rootbeer floats. A great BIG thanks to his friends for being so wonderful and for helping Zach to feel special. Becky, Zach, and Zack

Sara, Zach and Zack

Saturday Zach had to work for the majority of the day but when we got home we had our family celebration. I love the fact that my kids like cream cheese desserts over cake...so much more yummy and easy to make.

Opening the presents Sunday Zach was ordained a Priest and hopefully I will remember to take a picture of him before church this coming Sunday as it will be his first time to bless the sacrament. We invited several families over to eat a meal in celebration of this special ordination. Oh how I wish our yard and budget were larger so that we could have invited the whole ward. It felt so good to do this as it reminded us of the good ol' times when we used to gather with friends and family to celebrate the happenings in our childrens life.

"Phapy Birtydah, Zach"

Back to School

2011-09-01T21:31:00.008-05:00

It is always an exciting time of year when the kids go back to school. Summer seems to go by way too fast and before we know it, there is no more sleeping in! Oh how we miss waking up when our bodies seem ready to climb out of bed BUT in all honesty, we do look forward to the routine that school brings. I am still super busy with all the things that were put on hold while the kids were home for summer. I am still not quite used to how quiet the house is when they are gone to school. There are times when I do feel lonely but before I know it, the school day is through and we are all together again! Here are the pictures I took on the second day of school because I forgot to get the camera ready the night before the first day of school! What a disappointer but you know, sometimes life is just like that!! We learn to roll with the punches!

Macie is in the 2nd grade this year.

Erin is in the 5th grade.

Cody is starting a whole new phase of life as he has entered Middle School! He is in the 7th grade.

Blake still attends the Middle School but is now having everything he does count as he is a 9th grader!

Zach is, as hard as it is for me to believe, a Junior in high school! I really don't feel old enough to have my kids as old as they are!!!

Both Zach and Blake have been attending early morning seminary and have done a super good job at getting up when I go down to wake them. This is not a super clear picture but this is there first morning of heading off to learn more about the gospel and I am just so proud of them for choosing to make seminary an important part of their day!

A Special Evening with Macie

2011-08-11T09:51:00.003-05:00

As there are some Wednesday evenings when Macie and I find ourselves alone because of church activities, I have tried to use this time to bond with her. I am learning that there is great truth in the scripture that teaches that "by small and simple things, great things are brought to pass." Macie and I had an evening where we simply painted each others nails and then washed our faces with Noxema. After it was all done, Macie gave me a great big hug and told me that she had so much fun. Who would have thought that washing your face could make for such a fun night?! I love my Macie!

Erin is Double Digits

2011-08-11T09:42:00.003-05:00

This year Erin officially left the single digit life and turned 10! My how the time has flown. She is a beautiful girl, personality and all and we love her so much. This year for her birthday she was so excited because her grandma and grandpa Chase were here to celebrate the day with her! We miss living so close to them!!! We had a wonderful day as we celebrated. Erin was awakened to a telephone call from G and G Bingham, taken out to breakfast by G and G Chase, spent a few hours at the zoo, played at the park,and then enjoyed a yummy mexican dinner with a to die for chocolate trifle. Grandpa and Grandma Chase
Erin opening a gift

Macie at the zoo in the butterfly house

Blake teasing the goats

Chris and Cody petting the llama

Erin petting the llama (it is SO soft!)

Happy Birthday Erin!

We Love to See the Temple

2011-08-11T09:38:00.003-05:00

This summer we have been using the temple! The boys have been able to do baptims for the dead several times, we were able to help plant the flowers around the temple, Chris and I have been attending as often as possible, and our soon to be new temple President and his wife taught sharing time in Primary and took the children into the temple foyer to teach them about the importance of going to the temple. We love our temple!

Boy Scout Camp

2011-08-11T08:42:00.004-05:00

The boys had a blast this year at scout camp. I wish that I would have gotten a picture with the three of the together but hindsight is always better. Chris was able to spend a few days at camp with the boys. I am so grateful that our boys are able to participate in these type of activities. Because the L.D.S. troops are so small, our Stake attends B.S.A. camp together and shares a campsite. This is such a huge blessing as it allows the boys an opportunity to meet other boys in our Stake and develop friendships with them.

Cody enjoying a can of soda.

Blake and his good friend, Joseph, climbing.

Zach climbing.

Cody preparing to start the ironman competition.

Blake enjoying time with his pocketknife.

Zach (in white) climbing.

Mount Rushmore

2011-08-11T08:21:00.006-05:00

We had such a fun family vacation this year. We met some of our best friends (who happen to also be our family!) in South Dakota. We had a much needed break from the routines of life and were able to relax and have lots of fun together.

Chris and Kevin

Becky and I

The boys: Sam, Blake, Zach, Dillon and Cody

The girls: Macie, Sydney, Morgan, Erin and Aspen

This is in Custer State Park and it was so awesome to be able to feed the donkeys there.

Blake trying to pet a donkey.

We were able to tour Jewel Cave while there and in order to go splunking (which we did not do) you had to be able to crawl through this concrete box. Phew, I made it!

A picture in Jewel Cave

Zach and I

We stayed at a campground that was AWESOME! One of the features was this pool that was "heated" but not enough for my liking. It was pretty cold but the kids LOVED it!

Macie, Sydney and Morgan resting at Mount Rushmore.

Our family at Mt. Rushmore.

We hiked part of the McKillson trail which was so pretty. This is in one of the old train tunnels. They are pretending to be laying in their coffins as vampires.

Chris outside one of the tunnels.

Aspen and Erin enjoying some private girl time!

Macie and Sydney climbing on a break.

Enjoying the good grub!

Sandbaggin'

2011-08-11T08:05:00.004-05:00

Have you noticed the weather lately? I'm definitely a believer that we are living in the last days! Living here in North Dakota has brought so many neat opportunities to our family. Never in my life did I ever think that I would be sporting a yellow "Helping Hands" t-shirt but in May we had the privilege of helping a woman in our area sandbag her home. What a humbling and thrilling experience it was for our family. It felt so good to be a part of an effort to help neighbors in our community.

Erin and I began by tying the majority of the bags at this home. Our fingers were sore but it was so worth it!

Macie was our entertainment!

Here is Cody loading up the cart to haul the bags closer to the home.

It was exhausting work! (Blake is in the background teasing a leader.)

I wish that I would have taken pictures while we filled the sandbags. There were several times that I took the kids to a sandbagging site and we would bag and help load trailers for those in need. It wasn't the funnest thing we did but it was so good to give service to complete strangers. I am so grateful that we were able to help.

Macie's Birthday

2011-08-11T07:49:00.003-05:00

It is hard to believe that Macie is 7! We love this little girl to pieces!!! As she is our "baby" it is hard to believe just how quickly the time is going. I remember a friend of mine used to carry around her youngest child and he was 7. I couldn't understand it, until now. There is something we want to hold onto as we see our youngest child growing up. Perhaps it is the realization that time does not stop and so we do as much as we can to enjoy every moment. There are times when we still carry Macie, even in public. It makes me smile only because I remember my own reaction to my friend and think that there may be many out there that just don't get it. And that is okay. We love Macie. She has brought us so much joy and happiness. She is quick to make us laugh, and has developed such a sweet and tender heart. I am so grateful that she was sent to our home! We love you Macie!

A young man that Chris met had won this bike and wondered if we would like it. Things like this always let me know that Heavenly Father is aware of our needs and takes care of us! Macie was in desperate need of a bike.

I Feel Good

2011-08-11T07:22:00.002-05:00

In case you were wondering... I have felt GOOD for more than a week! Yeah for the good times!!!

Always Look on the Bright Side of Life

2011-07-31T22:40:00.005-05:00

Do you ever find yourself struggling to look on the bright side of life? That seems to have been my challenge for the last few months. Yikes, did I just say MONTHS? Not that I am looking to blame it on anything but I took a terrible downward plunge after we took a family vacation to South Dakota. Don't get me wrong, the vacation was FABULOUS, but it was the fact that I had to come back to N.D. It is a bit lonely out here on the plains and being surrounded by people that I love to be around was so hard to leave behind. I have been struggling to accept my life here. BUT something wonderful happened this weekend that has hopefully helped to open my eyes and help get me out of the hole I fell into.

Chris was able to attend youth conference and shared a story from one of the devotionals with me. It is one that I already knew but needed to hear again. The story goes something like this:

A man sat on his porch enjoying the beauties of nature when a lone traveller came to him. The traveller asked the man if the town he lived in were a good place to live. The man on the porch said, "Well, what kind of town did you come from?" The traveller responded, "My town is dirty and full of people that are unkind. I don't like it at all. I can't wait to get out of it!" The man replied, "Well, then I'm thinking you are going to find that same thing here." So the traveller went on. Not too much longer another traveller approached and asked the man almost the same question as to what kind of town this was. The man replied to this traveller, "Tell me what your town is like that you come from." The traveller then proceeded to tell him how much he loved where he lived and that he was going to miss living there very much. The man told the man that he would probably find that same thing in this new town.

I didn't say much to Chris after he told me this story but the words sunk in. I have been so negative and I have not been seeing too much positive. I've been thinking that surely somewhere else I would be happier! How these words hit hard as I really came to see the truth in the fact that if I can't be happy here, why would I be able to be happy somewhere else?

Since that day, I have been focussing on the many blessings we have because we live here. Let me share just a few.

My marriage has been strengthened through this whole experience. Why would I ever want to give this blessing up? It has been blessed to have an added measure of sweetness. Chris and I have had to cling to each other and we have discovered just how blessed we were to marry one another. Our friendship has been deepened and increased. I can honestly say that I have not been negative in regards to our marriage...it is and has been the one bright light in all my negative struggles!

My kids LOVE it here! They are so happy in this place. I have asked on several occasions if they would like it if we moved away from here, even going so far as to ask if they would like to move back to the place we moved from. Each of them has given a resonding NO!

I love the temple! I don't know if we moved away if we would ever be so blessed to live 5 minutes away from the temple. In fact we are able to form personal relationships with the temple presidency and the temple workers. It is so good to enter the House of the Lord and have each person know your name.

I am grateful for my friends both here and in other parts of the country. Even as I have struggled they have helped me and been patient with me. They are such a blessing in my life!

I love the safety of this place. I do not worry when my children go out to play. We are surrounded by wonderful neighbors who look out for us and help when we have needed it.

And last but not least is the fact that I do love the people here. I have never met in such a large degree so many good, decent people. I love watching people interact with each other. There has been one time since living here that I have seen a customer get upset with the store clerk but I also saw this same customer apologize for losing his temper. It is just so refreshing!

HELP!!!

2011-03-28T13:37:00.003-05:00

As you may be aware, this Friday is April Fool's day and my kids are already wondering what I am going to be doing this year. My dilemma is that I don't have a single good idea. If you have played any good tricks on your kiddo's or you have heard of a great idea, will you PLEASE pass it along to me? Mucho gracias!!!

Bishop Daddy

2011-02-28T08:23:00.005-06:00

Two weeks and one day ago, Chris was extended the call to serve as a bishop. Yesterday it became official and as a family we experienced coming home from church without him. He was able to come home for about 15 minutes to grab a quick dinner and then off he went to extend callings. (He is the bishop of a brand new ward.) I won't deny that I cried and so did Macie. This is a note that she left for him because she had to go to bed before he returned home. It is hard to see clearly but the picture of her has big tear drops running down her cheeks...so tender.

Good luck as being the Bishop.

I continue to be humbled as we experience things like this. As I was driving home from the temple last Thursday night, I was reflecting on the past year. My thoughts took me to something that really made me go WOW. A year ago yesterday, Chris was released from being in the bishopric in C.G. I spoke in church on that day. What a coincidence that yesterday the call to be a bishop was sustained and again I found myself speaking in church. I feel like I have received a very tender mercy in having made this connection.

I have had a strengthened testimony that Satan knows me super well and he knows how to attack my weaknesses. I had a moment yesterday that was pretty hard to handle and being alone made it worse but I was able to call and visit with my old bishop and get some very good counsel from him. I will be okay. It is just going to take a bit of adjusting and perhaps an added layer of skin to deal with things that possibly aren't meant to hurt me but do.

I recognize my deep need for some very good, close friends that live in this area. I am going to work very hard at becoming a better friend to those who live close by. I know that I can't do this alone.

Two cute stories that I want to share about this call.

#1:
We told our children Saturday evening and boy was that a lot of fun! It was so exciting to see their responses. As Macie and Erin were showering that evening we could hear their cute, excited voices as they spoke about being the bishop's daughters. Our former bishop has two teenage daughters who are very good examples to my girls and they both exclaimed that they were going to be like Mel and Suzie. It brought great big smiles to both mine and Chris' face!

#2:
After church yesterday as we were waiting for the setting apart to occur, Macie was playing with a young woman in our ward and it didn't take long before this young woman started to chase after Macie to "get her." Macie saw Chris and ran to him shouting, "Save me Bishop Daddy!" Isn't that awesome?!

I know that this will take some adjusting on our part but I feel such peace and excitement for Chris. He is going to do such a good job. I will miss serving in the Relief Society but I felt from the start that my time of service within this calling would be brief and that I was serving so that I could assist Chris when he received the call to be the bishop. My testimony of the promptings of the Spirit continue to be strengthened as I experience moments like these when indeed impressions given, come to pass.

Please pray for us.

Macie's School Program

2011-02-18T09:16:00.004-06:00

Last night Macie had a school program that she participated in. She was Cinderella and had a speaking part that she did such a great job on. I recorded it but cannot get the video to rotate so I am not going to post it here.

The kids did such a good job at singing! It was a very enjoyable concert. There happened to be two boys on the front row who were getting quite into the music. They were pretending to play guitars, trumpets, keyboard, and drums. One of the boys in particular reminded us of my brother Rusty when he was a little boy. We had a hard time containing our laughter as these boys continued throughout the entire concert, oblivious to the fact that so many in the audience were watching them. (I wish I would have gotten a recording of them!) It was a very fun evening!

Let the Training Begin

2011-02-15T10:18:00.006-06:00

I announced in my Christmas letter that I am running a marathon this year. It is something that I have wanted to do from about the age of 12. My best friend while growing up, Laura and I would run in the deserts by our homes and talk about how cool it would be to finish a marathon. I have decided that this is my year as I am not getting any younger and I figure that it is only going to get more difficult to complete this goal if I wait.

I went running this morning OUTSIDE! It felt so good to be out of the gym and breathing the fresh air. I came home and thought that I would check out when the marathon is going to be here in Bismarck. It is scheduled for mid Septmeber and I thought to myself that it is still pretty far away and that it shouldn't be time to really start the "training" for it. With that thought, I took a peek at when it was recommended to start the training and found that it is recommended to begin training thirty weeks before the race. I did the math and found that the marathon is thirty weeks away beginning this next Saturday! WHAT?! That took me by a complete surprise!!! To the programs credit, it looks pretty doable and I have set it up so that my long runs fall on Thursday's so that I can do them while my kids are in school. I may have to shift them once the summer arrives but for now I am excited that I can work on getting ready without being away from my family on the weekend.

Holy smokes, I can't believe that it is time for my journey to begin! I'm still open to anyone who wants to run this with me. I've heard the course is very flat and scenic. So....come on, you know you want to do it!

It's Tooth-hurty

2011-02-09T21:10:00.003-06:00

I don't know about you, but it sure is hard for me to experience last moments with my youngest daughter. Tonight Macie lost her first big front tooth. I don't know why but it has got me feeling kind of weepy.

Before

During

After

What a super cute girl she is!

Isn't He Cute!?!

2011-02-09T21:03:00.005-06:00

I can't help but brag about how cute this "Bagster" is getting!

He competed in a district math competition today and helped his school get first place. He took this pretty serious as you can see by his choice of clothing for the day. J/K...he wore this because it is spirit week at his school and todays attire fell into the business category. What a coincidence that it happened upon the same day as his competition. Looking good Blake, looking good!

My Girl's Make Me Smile

2011-02-08T21:24:00.004-06:00

So tonight I went into the living room to check on the girls and found Erin practicing her violin with Macie holding up a paper. Macie had put together each of these to hold up as to how Erin was doing. I love her honesty! It brought a great big smile to my face.

Sometimes it takes a lot of patience on everyone involved when a new instrument is being learned how to be played! I am trying to teach the art of tuning things out...no pun intended.

I actually LOVE to listen to Erin play and love the fact that she loves to play. I am so grateful that she has this opportunity to learn to play the violin at school.

Here is Macie being a very sweet sister! She is a very good friend to Erin and not once did she hold up the "hate it" sign.

Wacky School Day

2011-02-01T12:43:00.002-06:00

It was wacky school day this past week and these yahoo's had a lot of fun putting wacky things together. I couldn't believe that Cody actually wore shorts in this weather but I guess from my point of view that does classify as wacky!

The All-City Band Concert

2011-02-01T12:39:00.004-06:00

I thought you might be interested in seeing my view of the band concert that all three boys were in. I had to sit in the cafeteria because the gym was full. I was so disappointed because it was Cody's first time performing and I really wanted to be able to actually see him play. It was hard to accept the fact that I could not go in. I sat and listened but felt pretty gloomy over it. As I looked around at everyone else who could not go in I felt an encouraging feeling. Not one person who had to sit where I was sitting lost their temper or raised a ruckus. They accepted it and though they too were disappointed, they recoginized that these things happen and making a stink over it, won't change what had to be done.

I like so much of what I see from people here in Bismarck. They still have class and respect for those around them. So even though I missed being in the acual room where my bosys were playing, I sat and listened and felt proud of each of my sons for the talents that they are developing. It was an "aha" experience for me.

Chris is Getting Older

2011-02-01T12:26:00.003-06:00

This year Chris did not have a regular birthday. I happened to get sick the day before his big day and was at my worst on his actual birthday. It pretty much stunk but he is such a good sport and takes it as it comes. I have made some good friends here and they brought us dinner that night and also a pie with candles to celebrate. I cannot even begin to describe how grateful I was for their act of service. They were my ministering angels that day! Thank you Joy and Steph for being my friends!

Amazingly, I did happen to catch a few shots of Chris on his day. He is such a big kid...I can't help but be totally in love with him!

I love the expression on Chris' face as he prepares to light the candles!

93? What? He is getting to be an old man!

Phapy Birtydah Chris! We'll do it right next year and have a great big party!

Christmas with the Chase's

2011-02-01T11:43:00.004-06:00

We had Christmas twice this year as we were at the reunion on Christmas day and then when we got home we had gifts to open from each other. Our Christmas 2009 was the beginning of a new tradition in our home. We had no money to spend on gifts that year but still wanted to give each other gifts. We decided that we would each draw a name and make a gift for the person we had gotten. Making a gift has become something that we look forward to. It takes a little bit more thought and a lot more time but produces an excitement that I don't think could come in any other way. It has been amazing to see the thought that has gone into each gift as well as the worry, "Will they like what I have done?". It is also fun to watch as the gift is completed and the waiting begins for the receiver to open the present. Such anticipation for Christmas morning to arrive! Here are the gifts that were made this year.

I made Chris a flannel blanket. I had not finished it completely by that morning but he was able to open what I did have done and has now enjoyed curling up in it when we watch a movie. I love it because the prints are all so Chris. They all have to do with hunting, the outdoors, and camo. I think he liked it too!

Chris was pretty tricky with my gift. He told me that he was entering a photo contest at work and wanted my "opinion" as to which prints he should submit. I gave him a list of twelve of my favorite shots that he had taken and then would ask him every now and then if he had heard back about the contest. Come to find out, he put together a calendar for me and used those pictures that I had chosen...there really was not a contest after all. Tricky, tricky!! I love the calendar. With each month he has put a one lined phrase to match the picture that serve as motivation for me. He is so awesome and I love how he loves me!

Cody had Zach this year and really struggled with what to make Zach. He finally decided to make him a shirt with his high school name and logo on it. It turned out so nice and Zach was excited to have a new shirt to wear to school. (I loved it too because it was one more thing to help push school pride and spirit. Not that Zach is lacking, he just still really misses his school is Arizona.) And those are goggles on Zach's face. What a fun person he is!

Zach did such a good job with Blake's gift. He made him a fleece pullover and they are also Blake's school colors. All I can say is that Blake was totally surprised and happy with what he had been given. As the mom, I was impressed with Zach's desire to tackle using a sewing pattern and the sewing machine. He did a great job and needed very little assistance.

Erin had Cody and made him this cool box to store his treasures in. We wandered Hobby Lobby for a long time in search of an idea of something we could do for Cody. Finally we stumbled upon this box and were excited as we started brainstorming ways to make it personalized for him. Erin did the whole thing by herself and did a fantabulous job! She also put a cake mix and pudding mix inside the box with the promise that she would make Cody his favorite dessert, Boston Creme Pie. Cody was stoked!

Macie had Erin and so for her project it required a little bit more of my help. She new exactly what she wanted to do for Erin which was to make her an apron. It was so much fun going to the fabric store together to pick out the fabric. I really wondered how to involve Macie so that she felt that indeed she had made the gift. I traced the lines on the fabric and had her cut it out. She pushed the pedal on the sewing machine while I guided the fabric (boy was that sometimes pretty nerve racking!) and she also helped pin and line things up. It was at times pretty crazy but I am so glad that I let her help so much and she was so excited for Erin to see what she had made. I think Erin's expression pretty much says, "I love it!"

Blake had Macie and he too wanted to make an apron for her. It was cute taking Blake to look for the fabric. It was a bit too overwhelming with all the choices they had to offer and quite honestly, he's a boy and really doesn't care about cutesy things. After looking around a bit he finally just looked at me and said, "Mom, please pick out something girly!" I showed him several choices that would work well together and let him make the final selection. He actually was the one who thought to put cute buttons on and spent a good amount of time trying to decide which style to go with. He was able to do more of the hands on with the sewing machine and did a super job with sewing his first project. When it was finished, he was very happy with what he had done. Macie loved it and loves being able to wear it in the kitchen when she helps me with the cooking.

I thought I would throw one in of our dog, Lucy. We were so excited to get home and see her happy to see us. She is a very cute and loving dog.

Chase Family Reunion

2011-02-01T10:47:00.006-06:00

It is February 1 and I am finally gettting our Christmas reunion blog posted. We were able to go to Utah to spend Christmas with Chris' family. Kevin and Becky were in charge and did such a good job of getting things organized and planned. We were able to stay at an environmental center which proved to be a blast. Here is a brief recap of our fun times. (Sorry about some of the pictures, I don't know how to rotate them once I have uploaded them.)

As we left Bismarck it was the coldest we had yet seen...-16 degrees. As we travelled across the lonesome prairie lands our car started to make a whining noise and it about drove me bonkers! Cody got sick and so both Chris and I really wondered if we were making the right choice to go. Both Chris and I had a prayer and we felt like it was okay to keep going. It was a huge relief when the weather started to "warm" up and our car stopped its whining. I can appreciate the whine the car made...I do it too when I am cold.

We were excited as we travelled on the outskirts of Yellowstone Park to see two bighorn sheep. We had to pull over and watch them and also scramble to find the camera. It was pretty cool to be so close to such a beautiful animal.

Once we were at the environmental center it was a time to let the fun begin! They had two seperate sleeping areas and so we put the kids on one side and the adults on another. The kids (and adults) were able to choose different activities to participate in and have fun.

Here is Cody and Logan climbing on the rock wall. This is about the only thing Cody was able to do as he was pretty much under the weather the whole reunion...poor kid.

Erin and Aspen having some good cousin time. I am so happy that my kids have cousins that are their best friends. I had the same as I grew up and still love being around my cousins.

We had a time set apart to wrestle. I think this will be a cherished memory as the kids grow and look back at this reunion. I wish I had taken more pictures of this, especially of the boys as they wrestled.

Her is Macie and Jacee and Logan and Macie wrestling. It was so fun to watch Logan get in there and play hard with the cousins.

Cousins are the best!

A few of us braved the snow and went snowshoeing. It was fun to get out and climb a real mountain. I sure do miss having mountains around!

Here is Mom and Kevin getting ready to go.

Can I just say that I LOVE this picture! The cold sure makes for really pretty pictures of really pretty girls!

My favorite Sam-bo! I love how he has a hole in his smile!!

My pretty Macie after our climb.

We were also able to do lots of cross country skiing which I have discovered I really enjoy doing. It is very good excercise and even more fun.

Macie had a rough first day of trying this out as the paths were not groomed but once the grooming was complete, Macie had a blast...Chris did too!

Nothing says "I love you" like a dad pulling his two sons in a sled while he is skiing (it also says that he is in really good shape!). What a good dad Loren is!!

Blake and Zach on skiis.

It was fun to see the boys being somewhat grown up and yet still knowing how to be a kid!

The Chase Family human pyramid...is falling down!

Nothing is more fun than lying around!

Make that, lying around and getting tickled by Uncle Kevin!

It was hard for our reunion to be over. Sometimes it really stinks being so far away but we love that we can get together and have a really good time.

Funny Funny Mother

2010-12-16T06:16:00.005-06:00

A few years back I had a friend that gave me a book of stories as a gift for Christmas. In the front of the book, she had placed a copy of a poem entitled, "Funny Funny Mother." Each Christmas season as the craziness seems to swirl around me, this poem always comes to my mind. I am a funny funny mother!

Funny Funny Mother

See Mother. See Mother laugh. Mother is happy.

Mother is happy about Christmas.

Mother has many plans. Mother has many plans for Christmas.

Mother is organized. Mother smiles all the time. Funny, funny Mother.

See Mother. See Mother smile. Mother is happy.

The shopping is all done. See the children watch T.V. Watch children, watch.

See the children change their minds. See them ask Santa for different toys.

Look, look. Mother is not smiling. Funny, funny Mother.

See Mother. See Mother sew.

Mother will make dresses. Mother will make robes. Mother will make shirts.

See Mother put the zipper in the wrong side. See Mother put the material away until January.

Look, look. See Mother take a tranquilizer. Funny, funny Mother.

See Mother. See Mother buy raisins and nuts.

See Mother buy candied pineapple and powdered sugar. See Mother buy flour and dates and pecans and brown sugar and bananas and spices and vanilla.

Look, look. Mother is mixing everything together.

See the children press out cookies. See the flour on their elbows.

See the cookies burn. See the cakes fall. See the children pull taffy. See Mother pull her hair.

See Mother clean the kitchen with a garden hose. Funny, funny Mother.

See Mother. See Mother wrap presents. See Mother look for the end of the Scotch tape. See Mother bite her fingernails.

See Mother go. See Mother go to the store 12 times in one hour.

See Mother go. See Mother go faster. Run Mother run.

See Mother trim the tree. See Mother have a party. See Mother make popcorn.

See Mother wash walls. See Mother scrub the rug.

See Mother tear up the organized plan.

See Mother forget the present for Uncle Harold. See Mother get hives.

Go, Mother, go. See the far away look in Mother's eyes.

Mother has become disorganized. Mother has become disoriented. Funny, funny Mother.

It is finally Christmas morning. See the happy family.

Smile, Father, smile. Father is happy. See Father smile.

Father loves fruit cake. Father loves Christmas pudding.

Father loves all his new neckties.

Look, look. See the happy children. See the children's toys.

Santa was very good to the children. The children will remember this Christmas.

See Mother. Mother is slumped in a chair. Mother is crying uncontrollably.

Mother does not look well. Mother has ugly dark circles under her bloodshot eyes. Everyone helps Mother to bed.

See Mother sleep quietly under heavy sedation. See Mother smile.

Merry Christmas to all the "funny, funny mother's" out there!

Facing the Weather

2010-12-14T11:53:00.004-06:00

Last week I had to call my dad because of the weather here. I got the girls all bundled up for school and then was shocked when I walked outside to feel what felt like a warm breeze in the air. Could it be true...warm air in December? I looked at my temperature reading in my car and sure enough the temperature had gone up to a warm 38 degrees. I was honestly giggly at the thought that 38 degrees now felt "warm" to me! Could this really be happening to me?! I've heard that it is going to get to the point when 15 degrees will feel warm to me. I still have a hard time believing that one but I'm not betting against it only because I'm learning that my views about the weather are already different than from a year ago.

So with that being said I won't lie about the fact that it is getting pretty cold up here. At night I am tired of having cold feet and crawling into very cold sheets! Wah wah! I know, stop the whining, but it is true. We have been on a serious learning curve here but we are starting to get the hang of some things and others we are still needing to learn. Take for example last night...

We leave Erin's concert and it is at least a FREEZING -15 degrees and I look at Chris and say, "I don't think we're in Arizona anymore!" We have not gotten into the habit of having gloves on our hands or stocking caps on our noggins when we go out for these type of things. I know we deserve a big DUH for not being more prepared but like I said earlier, we're still on a learning curve here.

The kiddo's are doing much better with this than Chris and I. Each morning they get all bundled up to head to school. They have gotten used to putting on all the accessories that this type of weather requires. Sometimes when Chris and I are super cold and kind of complaining about it, they will look at us with those sweet faces of theirs and say, "It's not cold!" Well!! It sure feels cold to me! And to think that I have added insulation on my body and still feel cold. It just doesn't seem right!

A funny thing that made me smile in regards to the weather is that today I was in the thrift store finding some pretty amazing stuff and I overheard two women visiting about their friend who lives in the most familiar state of Arizona. Hearing the word "Arizona" made me stop dead in my tracks to really hear what they had to say. According to this woman's friend, it was in the 80's yesterday and they had to turn on the air conditioner! These two women could not fathom this type of weather happening in December. Well ,I sure could fathom it! So with that being said, I guess that right about now I am missing the beautiful "winter" weather of Southern Arizona! Think of me, you warm Arizona friends!

Christmas Concerts

2010-12-14T06:16:00.008-06:00

With the holidays come the fun experiences of going to Christmas concerts. All but Macie have had a concert for us to attend. Unfortunately we did not take our camera along to Zach and Blake's but they both did an outstanding job in their band concerts. The music program here is very good and Blake especially loves his band teacher.

Cody's 6th grade class put on a "Rock" concert! Cody was hush hush before the concert. His sisters had seen it earlier in the day and he was threatening them NOT to tell me what was going to be happening. As our family sat in our seats waiting for Cody's class to come on stage it took us by surprise when the class started to appear. Most of them were in costume and when I saw Cody, I couldn't hold in my giggles. He was representing Elvis and had a wig on that was hilarious! He was such a good sport throughout the entire concert. He is one who knows how to perform and when it came time for his part he did not let the crowd down!! He did the worm across the stage and danced his little heart out.

I was so pleased with his good attitude and his ability to not be shy in front of an audience. He did an outstanding job!

Last night was Erin's orchestra concert and boy was it a jam packed crowd!! I could not believe the support by families for this event. It was a good thing to see. This was Erin's first appearance playing her violin. Her group did a very good job. It was interesting to see how the orchestra groups got smaller and smaller with each performing grade.

After the concert I asked Erin if she planned on continuing playing the violin. Her answer was a very strong, "YES!" I noticed the gift of music in Erin from a very young age. It would not surprise me to see her go on to college and participate in the music programs that college offer. Perhaps the day may even come when she will be able to play with the Orchestra on Temple Square. Now that is a dream I'd like to see fulfilled!!!

Phapy Birtydah Blake!

2010-11-29T09:27:00.005-06:00

Are my typo's driving you nuts?! At our house we like to say "phapy birtydah" on a birthday. We are goofy but I like our quirks. I cant' remember why we moved the letters around to form this phrase but it has been a favorite of ours for a while.

I can't believe that Blake is 14! Seriously, where has the time gone? We had such a good day celebrating his special day. His birthday breakfast cracked me up. He requested a lumberjack breakfast minus the hashbrowns and eggs so basically he wanted pancakes, saugsage, and bacon. I liked the fact that it was easy! We took him out to eat for lunch, which is a favorite tradition we do. It was extra special as last year we did not have the resources to do this with our children. His dinner was awesome as there was no stress in its preparation. He wanted hot dogs and nachos. It just couldn't have been more easy for me! I know that you were just dieing to know what we ate, but for me it was a real treat to have such an easy menu! We gotta celebrate these moments.

As a family we went sledding to celebrate. We had a total blast! It was the first time that we have done as a family this since moving here to North Dakota. Amazingly we stayed warm and no one got too hurt.

It was a very special day!

Here is the birthday boy.

I love this picture of Erin. The cold makes her face look like a doll.

Wahoo! Here go Chris and Macie.

Cody and Blake

Blake

Kendi and Cody

Zach

My Wake-Up Call

2010-11-28T20:30:00.003-06:00

I wish that I had the gift of words. I struggle to really put down on paper or a computer screen what I am feeling inside. Actually, I struggle in speaking words well too. It is just not one of my strengths. Nevertheless (I love this word!), I am going to try to express a marvelous awakening I had while away at my cousins funeral. Strange how the unexpected happens in unexpected places and we come away better people. At least, I am hoping to become "better people" because of what I have saw and felt.

It feels that my perspective and attitude regarding life have had a good wake up call! I have had a lot of time to think and ponder about my life while away. I have come home a different person. I was gone for only 3 1/2 days but such a change of heart has occurred within me. I left this experience with a determined resolve to live better than I have lived, to love deeper than I have loved, and to smile more than I have smiled. I am here to be happy!

Katie has had a significant impact on my life. She has cheered me on at a time when I needed a cheerleader. She was always one that I have looked to and admired. I have followed her blogs and watched with admiration her brave fight against cancer. Even in her death I have come away with so much. I know that I am not the only one that has been changed because of Katie. Her influence will continue to be felt as those who have known and loved her take what they have learned and apply it into their own lives thereby allowing Katie's influence to still have influence upon the living.

If you see any change in me, know that it is because I saw in my cousin's life something that I want to emulate in mine. She smiled A LOT! She bravely accepted the Lord's will. She laughed, even at the very end. She loved deeply. She was valiant! She had many close friends. Oh how I want these things! I already know that I won't be perfect in my attempts but I am going to work hard and when I slip I will pick myself up and keep trying. I've decided to keep Katie's funeral program in my scriptures to serve as my reminder of what I want to change.

I am so grateful I was able to have this choice experience! I didn't think that it would change me the way that it has. I can see why the Lord wanted me to be at the funeral and why He helped me get there. I needed a good wake up and Katie's funeral created the perfect place for this to occur. A great amount of good has come to me because of my cousin Katie's life. I feel blessed to have had such an example in my life. Thank you Katie for helping me learn things that I couldn't have learned any other way. Oh how I will miss my cousin Katie!

Tender Mercies

2010-11-28T20:14:00.003-06:00

My oldest cousin Katie passed away Tuesday, November 16th, in the early morning hours. She was only six years older than I. I had a restless nights sleep on the Monday before she died as I would wake and worry on how Katie was doing. I was so sad when I learned that she had died. I didn't know the particulars of her passing and worried that it had not been peaceful. I worried over her husband and children and I worried over her parents and siblings, especially Danna. I was overcome with emotion. My poor children had to be sent off to school with a mother in tears. My worries were eased a bit as tenderly Danna called me. How touched I was that she took the time to give me a call. After I got off the phone, I sobbed with gratitude for the blessing of having the gospel and family. What would we do without them?

I was fortunate to be able to spend that Tuesday in the temple, cleaning the chandelier in the Celestial Room. It was very comforting to be in that sacred place. I spent a lot of time thinking of Katie and what she was doing. When those I love pass on, my thoughts always turn to what the next step in our progression is like. It was hard to believe that Katie now knew what that next step felt like.

I desperately wanted to attend Katie's funeral but with it being the day before Thanksgiving, and money being pretty tight, I didn't know how I was going to be able to go. Chris was willing to support me in going, and he was willing to let me pull money from our budget to go but it was hard for me to feel okay with this. He even told me that Thanksgiving had been moved this year to Saturday. I was so grateful for his support but felt that it was selfish to strain our budget so that I could make this trip.

Later that day I received an unexpected phone call from my brother. He wanted to make sure that I was okay. I was a little surprised over his care. He cried with me and instantly I felt a bond with him that I have never felt before. He then told me that he wanted more than anything for me to go to the funeral. I explained that I didn't see how I was going to be able to go. He then told me that he would help me financially to make this trip. Again, I was completely overcome. How and why would he do this for me? I was prideful and found it hard to accept what he wanted to do. Finally, after much persuasion, I accepted his gift.

I began the task of trying to find the cheapest flight out of Bismarck...not very possible on such a short notice. As I researched my options, it became pretty clear that I was going to still need to put in a significant amount of money. I pondered over what was the right thing to do. I finally reached the decision that I would not go. I felt okay with the decision but a sad shadow seemed to cover my mood. When I told my brother that I had changed my mind, he was not too happy with me. He told me to keep trying and that if it was needed he would send more money. I did not feel comfortable with this and told him that I was so grateful for him and for what he was offering to do but I could not go.

Then another miracle occurred. The following day I received a phone call, first thing in the morning. A friend and her husband had been talking the night before and felt a desire to help me. They wanted to donate their flight miles so that I could go. I was stunned! I hadn't said too much to my friend about my troubles in trying to go. I again struggled with pride and couldn't say yes to her but told her I would need to think about it. I planned on calling her later in the day to tell her thank you for the offer but that I would not be going.

My thoughts were pretty busy after that. I had such a hard time understanding why I was being offered these gifts. It was so hard to accept the fact that I could not go unless I accepted what was being offered. I wanted to accept it but felt embarressed over my lack of being able to pay for it myself. Thankfully, I finally came to the understanding that Heavenly Father was using the resources of others to bless me. Again I was overcome. How could I deny such gifts? Joy soon filled my soul as I thought of how blessed I was for good people who know and listen to the Spirit and then respond to the promptings that He gives. Heavenly Father was inspiring them to help me! If I said no them, I recognized that I was really saying no to Him.

How grateful I am for this special gift that has been given to me. I cannot adequately expess how thankful I am. There are certain things that only happen once. I have missed things that only happen once before and oh how I have regretted those choices! This time is one of them and I appreciate the help I have been given so that I can go. I am grateful for Chris who was always willing and strongly encouraging me to go. He was willing to eat rice and beans for the month of December so that I could go. I am grateful for the sacrifice he and my children made so that I could go. I am grateful for my brother(and his wife) and for my friends, who showed such unselfish, Christlike love. I love you guys! Thank you so much for listening to the Sprit and for helping me do something I couldn't have done without you!!

Baby It's Cold Outside

2010-11-19T08:40:00.002-06:00

So I have a headache from walking the girls to school this morning. It has been brought on by the cold. Today is the first morning of serious cold weather! I didn't dress appropriately. My face was completely exposed to the air. As I was walking home, it felt like my cheeks were frozen. After some time in my home, I felt the sensation like they were really thawing out. I wondered, "Just how cold is it out there?" I was surprised to see that with the windchill we are registering at a chilly -1 degrees. Brrrrrr!

Can I just say that I am missing Arizona? Right. About. Now.

These are a Few of My Favorite Things

2010-11-15T10:01:00.015-06:00

I decided to finally get back into blogging. I think I may have said that a couple of times before, but this is for real...I really do intend to get back into it.

Keep breathing...miracles do occur and you are witnessing one right now!

Life has been so busy! Sometimes the day is drawing to its end and I wonder how I even made it through. Even with these extra busy times, I am so happy. Life is good. I decided to take a moment to write about some of my favorite things as Thanksgiving is unbelievably next week! Seriously, is it really that time of year already?!

1. My testimony of and love for the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.

I have been pondering the fact that I was blessed to have the gospel in my life, from the very start. How I even received this great blessing I am not sure, but the fact that I have it, makes my heart burn so much it often brings me to tears. The gospel defines so much of who I am. Without it, I am nothing really. I am so grateful to know who Heavenly Father really is and that I have a personal relationship with Him. I love Him. I love and appreciate my Savior, Jesus Christ. I also have a deep love and appreciation for the Holy Ghost. This special trio that we know form the Godhead, are so much a part of my life. I stand in awe that I can have association with such a special group!

2. It won't surprise you that my family is one of my favorite things. It is hard for me to put into words just exactly how I feel about this precious blessing.

I can sum it up in the fact that as a very young child I looked forward to the day when I would be a wife and mother. I wrote about it frequently in my journal as I was a teenager. It was what I couldn't wait to do and be. So here I am, a wife and a mother of more than 16 years and all I can say is, I LOVE IT! I know, it might be just a little bit over the top with too much gush, but it is the truth. I don't deserve what I have been given, but with a grateful heart I will keep and cherish this blessing.

3. This one might surprise you as you may be shocked to find that I actually have these but I am so grateful for good friends. It seems that since the days of college I have struggled to really establish deep, long-lasting friendships (other than those I have within my family circle). I am so shy and awkward but there are a few who have been very patient with me and my quirkiness and have been given the term as "my friend."

They give me something that is very much needed in my life. They boost me up and help me want to be better. I've learned that there is much truth in the saying that women need women! (That is a direct quote from Marjorie Hinckley.)

4. I love it when it snows!

Crazy, I know, but nothing makes me feel more like a little girl than when it is snowing. As a little girl, I lived outside during the winter months. Sledding was my favorite thing to do and nothing was better than eating a big scoop of freshly fallen snow. Yum yum! I am loving the fact that my children will have the memory that only snow can create.

5. Putting on my running shoes and sweating really hard are things that I don't always want to do but once I start, it feels so good.

I have been a runner for a huge part of my life. It began when I was in 7th grade, and while I took a break during high school, I picked it up again when I moved out of my parents house. It helps me to be happy and since I like being happy, I like to run.

6. I think I will end with my favorite foods. I won't lie, I love food!

I have a deep love for really good mexican food (and boy do I miss it as I have not as yet found a place here in North Dakota that can be termed as "really good"!). I love, love, love the Olive Garden...fettuccine alfredo and chicken gnocchi soup... especially in the company of good friends. I love Kung Pao chicken...homemade is the best! I love anything that my Grandma Bingham makes...her food is definitely termed "my comfort food." And last but not least is my dad's popcorn. Have you ever had it? If you have, then you know what I am talking about! It is by far the best stuff out there as far as popcorn is concerned. I have tried to duplicate his popcorn but my efforts have proven to be futile. He has a gift for making scrumptious popcorn and I miss not being able to go over to his house and enjoy myself a bowl of yummy, seasoned to perfection, popcorn.

I've Eaten Too Many Donuts!

2010-07-15T20:34:00.003-05:00

So it has been way too long since I have posted anything due to the fact that when I try to upload pictures, all I get is a bunch of encripted, computer messages. I did want to share with you a little "funny" that happened last week with my dear, sweet, all too honest, Macie.

We were in the grocery store getting milk and happened to walk past the donut case. Macie started drooling big time for one! Here is the conversation we exchanged:

Macie: "Mom, can I have a donut?"
Me: "No Macie, you can't have a donut."
Macie: "Pleeeeaaassse?"
Me: "Macie, I'm sorry we can't have a donut."
Macie: "Why not?"
Me in a whisper: "Because if we eat too many donuts, then our bums will get big."
Macie quickly responds: "Mom, you must have eaten A LOT of donuts when you were little!"

All I could do was laugh! I thought that was the funniest response ever and I guess I pretty much deserved it. Thinking about it, my bum does seem really big compared to hers! Enjoy your donut!

This I Believe

2010-04-12T11:06:00.004-05:00

In the fall I took an English class at the community college. My teacher assigned a writing project in which we were assigned to write about a belief that we had. Part of the assignment was having to submit the paper to the This I Believe website. I was informed last week that my paper has been published on their site. I was totally surprised and had to go and read it again to remind myself of what it was I had written about. I was so happy to see it there! I loved seeing especially the fact that the paper had been listed under the topic of "Christianity". How good it made me feel to know that they had recognized the fact that I am a Christian, even with my professing "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints". It is a simple paper and as you have probably been able to tell, I am not a gifted writer, but I was so happy to have a piece of my testimony in print for any and all who want to see. You can check it out if you want to read it. It can be found at <http://thisibelieve.org/essay/70552/>

Happy Birthday to Me!

2010-04-12T10:26:00.004-05:00

Our family has a tradition each General Conference. I got the idea from Elder Russell M. Nelson. He spoke during a Priesthood session of how his wife and daughters were at home making donuts and that after the session they all gathered together to enjoy the time together. For some reason I liked that idea. I like it for a couple of reasons. Each time I make the donuts I can not help but think of my Grandma Bingham who taught me how to make such yummy donuts. I like being in the kitchen with my children. I like the fact that my husband and boys come home looking forward to this. I enjoy the fact that hopefully this will produce a good memory for my children when they are older and maybe do something like this with their own family or maybe they will live close by and keep coming over to my house for this tradition! The donuts are sooooo good! You can't eat just one!!

With this tradition also came the adding of another candle to my cake. I had a special birthday this year as it did fall on Conference and Easter. Thank goodness for the internet which allowed us to watch conference in our home. I was so touched by each message and felt such an outpouring of the spirit. Truly these are the Lord's anointed servants! I think there is something extra special about hearing the words spoken. Each time I read the messages, they come with more power as I can hear in my mind the speaker speaking the words. I am looking forward to getting the Ensign so that I can begin my study of their words. Lots of good counsel for families and moms specifically.

As a family we enjoyed being together. I woke surrounded by my family singing "Happy Birthday" and then was served breakfast (which could have been eaten in bed but I enjoy it much more eating with my family at the table). It was a wonderful day! I was thankful for its simplicity. A sweet young woman in our ward felt inspired to make our family an Easter cake. I was touched that she had followed that prompting. It was a gentle reminder that Heavenly Father knows I am here and that He loves me. It was so delicious!!!!

A few days later, I received a package from my Mom Chase. It was rather large and I wondered what on earth she had sent to me. As I opened it up I was shocked to see its contents! Gifts such as the one I received are rare because it came from hours of service and sacrifice. It was a very special quilt. In the hustle and bustle of our move, I was going through all the different "projects" I had started over the years. I decided that I would not move with projects that were not complete as our space was very limited. I pulled out a quilt top that I had made over 11 years ago. It was my "wedding quilt" made because I had always wanted one and I had decided that I could make one for us. I debated over what to do. Should I keep it or not? I finally decided that since it had been so long and I had never finished it I would donate it to the Relief Society to finish and give to humanitarian aid. Mom Chase was serving as the Relief Society President and so I gave the top to her. I felt good with my decision. Well you might be able to imagine my complete surprise and joy over finding this quilt finished for me for my birthday! Mom told me that she just couldn't get rid of it and with my birthday coming up she new just what to do. Her gift was a true labor of love and I will treasure it always. Thank you so much mom for your continued love and thoughtfulness! I LOVE IT!

I also received a much needed pair of running shoes from Chris and my parents. The ones that I had been using were a couple of years old and my feet were hurting in them when I ran. I went running in my new shoes this morning and boy did my feet feel a difference! Thank you Chris and Dad and Mom Bingham for this much needed gift!!! My feet thank you too!

Are You Ready for This?

2010-04-06T15:08:00.011-05:00

Warning:

Many pictures to follow!

Our first few weeks in North Dakota have proved to be an adventure.

Home Sweet Home...with the biggest pile of snow on the street! Thankfully it has melted

completely away and we can see the grass starting to turn green.

All I can say is that the kids LOVED playing in the snow. It has taken me a bit of "learning" as to how to handle wet boots, wet coats, wet snowpants, wet hats, and wet gloves. I thought I bought waterproof gloves, but most of the time the kids come in with cold, wet gloves. I'd love to hear suggestions if anyone has any to share.

Our first week here, Macie went to the park by our home and came home most excited because she had found a "five point" deer antler! Chris went out a couple of days later and came home the same way...excited because he had found the match. Macie informed us that she would sale her antler for $100,000 if anyone is interested.

Our family took a trip to the Heritage Center and was totally amazed at all the exhibits on display. I especially loved the fact that it was free and gave us something to do on a cold day. We will definately take all visitors to this museum as it really is VERY good! (Hint, hint.)

The weekend before Easter, the zoo here tried to break the Guiness Book Record for the longest bunny hop. Entrance to the zoo was free and the kiddo's were also able to participate in an egg hunt. This was the first time since being here that I was seriously cold! I had to come home and crank up the heat and stay covered in blankets to warm my old bones.

I just had to show you what we have experienced here as far as weather goes. We were so lucky to enjoy some days where we didn't need to wear jackets. It felt so good to be outside in the sunshine.

This is what we woke to the very next day! Out with the coats!

If you don't know me too well then you may not know that I love to play tricks and get a good laugh out of doing crazy things every now and then. I am a huge copy cat and would recommend Shelly Wille's books if you love to do crazy things with your family. I have done a lot of what she has done because of how fun it is. Here we have April Fools Day. I put breakfast out the night before. What made it even better was that it started raining right as the kids had to go outside to get their breakfast. I laughed and laughed watching them.

This joke didn't turn out the way I had expected. I thought for sure that "mom was going to rock" for dinner but not so. I did a reverse dinner and let them have dessert first and as much as they wanted. Instead of cheers I heard moans and complaints. It was especially funny to me because they wanted to have the main course which were about as healthy as the dessert (corndogs) but before they could have them they had to "finish their dessert". Good times, good times!

The kids had a day off on Monday and so we enjoyed the beautiful weather by going to the river and building boats. It was so much fun and we are loving the awesome spring weather.

Stay tuned...more posts to follow!

I Can't Wait Until 04/02/10

2010-03-23T10:48:00.006-05:00

That's right. I am so looking forward to April 2 for that is the day that I will be able to blog from my own home. Hallelujah that it comes just in time to watch general conference!

We are doing good and adjusting more to living here. We both have registered our cars and have become official North Dakota drivers. I wear a sweater almost everyday but don't need to wear a coat! The kids seem to like their schools more. We are meeting more people and maybe starting to form some friendships. I am finding that I need to find some things to do with my time. I am going to give genealogy a try. Chris' dad gave me a part of his line to work on and I am excited to have something other than unpacking boxes to do. I am also trying to find a place to volunteer at for one day a week. We still are waiting to be put to work in the ward but I sense that it won't be much longer. Chris and I get to help clean the temple this week and I am excited about that. It is such a beautiful temple! I feel so grateful to live so close to it. Macie told me last Wednesday that the Bismarck temple is where she is going to get married. It made me smile to hear her say that.

We are Alive

2010-03-10T12:58:00.003-06:00

I just wanted to give a quick hello and let you know that we are alive and well here in North Dakota! I am still without internet at home and so I am unable to post pictures but I wanted you to know that we are not frozen and unbelievably have not been especially cold. I have been surprised at how the area looks. I imagined an area made up of mostly flat terrain but have been pleased with the many rolling hills! Our home is small but functional. I am looking forward to the time when we can look for a home to buy. The people here have been so unbelievably nice to us. I LOVE the elementary school here but I am feeling nervous about the junior high and high school because they do not offer advanced classes. Zach is feeling frustrated because he does not feel that he will be challenged in this school. I am hoping it gets better for him. He does have swimming his first hour and loves that part of school so I am thankful that there is a positive aspect of his school day. I may have to look into other schools in the area to see if they offer more of what he needs. Blake has not decided if he likes it or not. The school he attends is brand spanking new and the staff are very friendly. I just don't know if he will be challenged academically there or not. Hopefully he will be okay there. I think that once he and Zach make some friends it will be better.

I will give more details later when I have more time. So much to do and so little time!!!!!

P.S. I miss my friends and family!

Can I Really Do This?

2010-02-24T22:37:00.004-06:00

No pictures to post, just randomness.

As I realize that I have only one week until we move, it is getting more difficult to prepare to say goodbye. I am crying much more easily these days. My house doesn't look like my house anymore. I am super scared about the really cold winters that N.D. gets. I don't feel ready to be so far apart from our extended family. I am afraid that I won't have as good of friends as those that I have right now. Can you sense that I am seriously afraid over what is happening?

And yet, even with all these nerve racking emotions that I have been feeling lately, I trust my Heavenly Father. I know that He is aware of my family and is helping us through this change. I sat in the temple today and enjoyed the peace of that sacred place. As I waited to go into the Celestial room I had the words to the hymn, "I'll Go Where You Want Me To Go" come into my mind. I thought about my ancestors who left their homes to cross the plains. I feel that in a small way I can now relate to the pain of that experience. As the journey may be rough, I trust that there may be times when I might feel the angels helping to push me along, giving me their strength to continue on. I want to be like my ancestors. I want to go where the Lord wants me to go! I want to follow the still small voice that gives the assurance that even with leaving my precious home and the many people I love and care so much about behind, it will be worth the lessons that will be learned in the journey we are facing. Thank goodness for a knowledge that there is eternity and that this life is a brief moment in that time frame! Thank goodness for the gospel! Thank goodness for prayer! Thank goodness there is a temple in Bismarck! Thank goodness for my family! Can I really do this? With the Lord's help, I know I can!

We're in for a Serious Change

2010-02-08T22:14:00.006-06:00

I'm sitting here typing and erasing. It is hard to even know what to say. My family is preparing to do something that, quite honestly, I feel afraid of doing. But I am trusting that even though I feel afraid, all will be well. I am so thankful for prayer and the comfort and guidance we receive from the Holy Ghost. Because of these things that I am thankful for we have been guided to accept a job in......

North Dakota!

I know what you are thinging....we're going to freeze! But believe it or not, I am super excited!!!! (even though I am scared too!)

We move on March 3.

"Chase Idol"

2010-01-16T22:14:00.005-06:00

It is no secret that we are a little strange! As proof of this strangeness, let me share with you what happened today during some family time. We gave the kids 5 minutes to decide what we should do together as a family. I thought that we might do some geocaching or play a game but boy was I wrong. When Chris and I came back into the room, we were informed that each member of our family was going to participate in "Chase Idol". We were instructed to come up with a costume and be ready to perform our song in 10 minutes. Were they serious?!

Okay so I'm thinking, what in the world am I going to do? Then the idea came and when Zach saw me he couldn't stop laughing. The only thing is, I scored the lowest out of everyone! Go figure. I was informed that the only reason I got any kind of score was BECAUSE of my costume and NOT my ability to sing. I sure got a good laugh over that!

Each person involved did a great job and it was fun to be a little strange with my family!

I now present to you "Chase Idol"

Macie was our first contestant and did a fabulous job. She sang, "Christmas Bells are Ringing". She even created her outfit for the event! Don't you love it?

Chris and I got a good laugh over Cody. He snuck upstairs right before his turn and put the eyeliner on his face. Does he remind you of anyone? I am not sure if it was his make up or the hat but there was something that reminded us of Boy George. YIKES!

The first thing I said when I saw what I looked like was that it is a good thing I did not become a nun! Not very flattering at all but what can I say? I sang the song from the Sound of Music, "How do you solve a problem like Maria" and did a horrible job BUT I had fun while doing it!

Here is Blake and he sang along with a song on our ipod. We all think that it is so cool that he can wear sunglasses because he now wears contacts! He did a good job and I like his extra touch with the rollerblading gloves on his hands!

Here is my sexy Chris! He was George Strait and did such a good job strumming his guitar. My heart was pitter pattering as I watched him. He was my favorite!

Here is Zach, our tamborine man. He has such confidence and looks so good in his costume! He was also our M.C. and held the spotlight for the event. This activity also was his idea and I must say that it turned out to be a super fun activity.

Here is my dear sweet Erin. She got all dressed up and even put some beads in her hair but when it came time for her to perform, it was just too much. Unfortunately she has inherited a shy bone from her dear ol' mother but I was proud of her for wanting to do it and perhaps next time (if there is a next time!) she will have the courage to perform her act.

BEEP... BEEP... BEEP

2010-01-11T22:27:00.006-06:00

The other day I turned on the radio and found myself listening to the practice beep of the emergency broadcast system. I have wondered what it would be like to have the broadcast beep be the real thing. Would I be prepared for the warning it would give? There are different types of emergencies we face and these are rarely sounded over the radio. Last week we had an emergency of our own. Thankfully my dad went to the doctor because of his having difficulty breathing. He was given a cat scan and it was discovered that he has multiple blood clots in his lungs. Talk about taking your breath away! I wasn't prepared to hear this. With him having a motorcycle accident a couple of months ago and now this, I have come to value the frailty of life. I am so very grateful that the clots did not move to his heart or brain and I am also overwhelmingly grateful for modern technology and medicine that have helped to save my dad's life.

My dad is one of my heroes. I have found in him someone I can rely on and confide in. I am not ready for him to leave this earth life. Thank you Dad for listening to the "warning" and for seeking medical care! You are the best and I love you!!!!

Here We Are Together

2010-01-07T22:03:00.011-06:00

Our family had a very busy and special December! We had been looking forward for months to the Ray Chase Family reunion. This years reunion organizer's decided to do things a little different and the whole family spent five days on a Mexican Riviera cruise. It is definitely a reunion we will always remember. We had so much fun and the service and food were outstanding! I think we all gained just a little extra weight during this reunion, except for the faithful exerciser, Becky, but it was worth it!!!

This is on Catalina Island and you can tell that grandma and grandpa sure enjoyed watching the the grandkids play in the ocean. Can you believe that they were swimming in the ocean in December?! Brrrrr....

We spent a day in Ensenada, Mexico and went to see the blow hole as a WHOLE family! Try to imagine the fun we had dressed in the same t-shirt walking the market streets of Mexico. Everyone new our last name and would thus call to us trying to get us to come into their store. It was a hoot! Even the people on the ship new who the Chase's were! It is super hard to hide 29 people all wearing the same shirt.

A great big thank you to Loren and Becky for spear-heading this reunion and for doing such a great job! We had a blast!

Blake's Birthday

2009-11-28T22:49:00.010-06:00

It feels like only yesterday that I was walking in the halls of my high school and now look at me... two teenagers?! Seriously, life is going way to fast!!! Does anyone know how to hit the pause button?

We celebrated Blake's 13th birthday yesterday and today. Having a birthday right along with a holiday makes for a "burned out momma," but somehow this year I managed to successfully enjoy both Thanksgiving and Blake's birthday. (I know that the main reason this occurred is because we were invited to go to my sister-in-law's home for Thanksgiving and all I had to worry about cooking this year were the rolls! Thanks a million, Becky!!)

Here is the "official" teenager and yes, he is still such a nice boy, I mean, young man.

He can still blow out all the candles in one breath!

Our celebration included a day of four-wheeling. What would a trip be like without tire trouble?! This sure seems to be our lot in life.

On our hike up a very steep mountain!
Of course my very cute kiddo's, minus Zach who is with his dad on the four-wheelers! You can tell by the blue sky that we enjoyed some fabulous AZ sunshine! It was picture perfect weather.
The only picture I got of Zach and he is chillaxing with his latest book.
My crazy kiddo's...
sure know how to have fun!

I'm Trying to Come Back

2009-11-06T23:49:00.013-06:00

Blogging is a lot like writing in a journal for me and that tells you how well I do at writing on a regular basis but I've decided that it is finally time to get a post done. I know... MIRACLE! It is hard to know exactly where to begin; so much has happened but I will give you a quick run down on my life since May.

1. I don't teach seminary anymore because of strong impressions received by a wise bishop and a very sacred experience I had while attending the temple. Most of my focus these days are on being a mom and I love it!

2. I play the piano in primary and work with the Achievement Day girls! Love it!

3. ALL of my kiddo's are in school and just as a little side note... so am I.

4. I've spent a lot of time on my knees lately.

Now for the fun stuff. I just have to show you how cute my kiddo's are! You'll notice they get their cuteness from their dad! See how we've grown.

Like I said...they get their good looks from their dad!

I promise to do better at blogging!!!

Macie Says the Darnedst Things

2009-05-02T18:40:00.006-05:00

Macie has put me into hysterics lately at some of the things that have come out of her cute mouth! I thought that since it has been a little while since I last posted I would share some funnies with you.

#1 One day while out shopping:

Macie: Mom, can I have some candy?

Me: Not today Macie.

Macie: Why not?

Me: We need to be careful with our money.

Macie: But if a mom REALLY loved her daughter, she would buy her the candy!

Just got home from seminary, approximately 7:45 a.m.:

Me: Macie what have you got?

Macie: Crackers.

Me: Macie, isn't it a little too early for crackers?

Macie: Can I have them?

Me: Yes you can but it will have to be later.

Macie: (Singing) Mother dear, I love you so! Please, can I have the crackers!!!

This little girl of mine has brought me so much joy! I love her to pieces and love the things that have come out of her mouth that have caused lots of laughter! I hope they have brought a smile and a laugh to yours as well!

So Long, Farewell

2009-03-03T15:06:00.002-06:00

For any of you who are just dying to know...I called the pound!

One dog is enough for me!!!!!

My Hero, Amber

2009-02-24T09:58:00.006-06:00

I wanted to dedicate a post to my dear niece, Amber.

Publicly I wanted to share the fact that she is one that possessess a rare courage and strength. I admire her selflessness and ability to offer a sacrifice unknown to many! She has become one of my heroes and I am so thankful to have a person like her in my life. Amber, I hope you know how much I love you! I am so proud of the person you are becoming!

Here are a few pictures taken while we were in NYC. She was such a trouper to spend a week with a bunch of "old-fashioned" ladies! :)

I just love a person that knows how to have fun! You are that type of person! Thanks for making me smile!!!! Is it too soon to plan another trip?! Hawaii??? ;););)

What Would You Do?

2009-02-19T22:08:00.011-06:00

Today I decided to take Macie for a walk. From this walk we brought home a stray puppy.

My Problem:

Macie really wants the puppy to stay permanently. Cody has wanted a dog of his very own for a very long time.

My Solution:

"Try" the dog out and if I don't like the dog, I can call the pound.

My Thoughts:
Honestly, I wish I were more like Aunt Nancy!!!! What am I getting myself into?....more dog poop!

I AM...BEHIND

2009-02-11T21:53:00.004-06:00

Okay, so Megan has kindly reminded me that my blog has been neglected! My camera is broken and so there have been no good pictures to post. I really wish that my camera was working because tonight was Blake's first dance at the church. He was so cute and very nervous. I made him "practice" with me beforehand and he didn't seem to like that too much but I did. My kids are growing up way too fast! Honestly, I can't believe that I have two deacons. Next year all of my children will be attending school. Yikes, the time really does go fast but we are enjoying it as it does!

I decided that I would take this idea from Megan's blog to give me something to write about. In doing this I've come to see that life is good. No, it is not perfect but I am happy and so thankful for all the good to be found in this world! Here is my version of "I Am".

I Am

I am... too busy.

I think... way too much.

I want... to graduate from college...nursing degree hopefully!

I have... been so blessed!

I miss... having toddlers!

I fear... dying young.

I hear... the clock ticking.

I crave... soft chocolate chip cookies and a glass of milk...mmmmmm!

I cry... easily!

I regret... being disrespectful to my parents when I was young.

I search... the scriptures.

I wonder... when Jesus will come again...I hope I am here.

I wish... that Chris and I could go on a honeymoon....SOMEDAY!

I love... my wonderful family, extended included...you all are the best!

I care... about who my children have as friends.

I always... kiss my kids goodnight.

I worry... about gaining weight...did I mention I crave cookies?!!!

I am not... unhappy.

I remember... thinking I knew EVERYTHING!

I believe... that if we follow the prophet we will be protected!

I sing... to get rid of bad feelings or temptation.

I don't always... floss my teeth.

I argue... as little as possible, though some may disagree! :)

I write... in my journal not as often as I would like.

I lose... sleep studying for seminary.

I listen... to my friends.

I can usually be found... needing a hug!

I need... to enjoy playing with my children more!

I forget...to write thank you notes.

I am thankful to be where I am in life!

Surviving December

2009-01-02T16:38:00.013-06:00

It has been a super busy December, with lots of things going on. Honestly, I can't believe I survived!!! Here are some of the highlights.....

Decorating yummy sugar cookies.

Decorating the ol' Christmas tree.

Enjoying our ward's Christmas party. Do you like the AZ snowman? He's made from good ol' tumbleweeds!

Enjoying MANY school programs!

Celebrating Christmas!

Enjoying several days at the park. The weather has been AWESOME!

And we enjoyed a

Bingham Cousin's New Year's Eve Party!

Enjoying a barbarian spaghetti dinner in classy tuxes and dresses!

We enjoyed a night of fun games...newspaper races, balloon smashing, scavenger hunt,
baby food contest (yum, yum), banana splits, candy contest and a movie!

AND your's truly was excited to bring in the new year with such a fun group of people!

I hope that your December has been as eventful and fun as mine. I hope you survived too!

I Married A Hunter

2008-12-06T10:31:00.007-06:00

My husband is a hunter. It has taken me some time to get used to this idea but I have come to see that this is a hobby he is passionate about and so because of this, I try to support him in it. In our first years of marriage I could care less about the details of his hunt but now, as my love for him has deepened,I get excited over the success he has when he goes. I think the change has occurred because I have matured and seen how important it is for me to support him in the things he loves. I must admit that I don't do this perfectly, I still have lots of moments of immaturity, but I can see in these past 14 years the improvements I have made. Because of this maturity level I have reached (hee, hee, hee!) I wanted to post his success! I really am so happy for him and for the fact that he was able to come home successful after a long hunt! I hope the picture doesn't gross you out!
We will be enjoying a freezer full of elk that happens to be the most expensive food storage item in my pantry! Oh the things we do for the people we love!!!!

Yummy Winter Food

2008-12-04T18:25:00.005-06:00

I am such a copycat! Most of my ideas are copies that I tweak to make them my own. I am copying my cousins today by posting a couple of my favorite winter recipes. It is something I have thought about doing for a while but I just have not taken the time to do it. The recipes that my cousins have posted I have loved and one has even become my new favorite meal--Kung Pao Chicken--man I love this recipe! (Thanks for sharing it Darcee!) I thought that you might enjoy a couple of meals that are good for these cold, winter months and are somewhat easy to prepare, which is a huge bonus because who doesn't love a quick, easy meal that tastes super good! I hope you enjoy!

Crock Pot Stroganoff

Anything in the crockpot is a favorite of mine! I love easy!

2 pounds round steak, cubed

1/4 c. flour

1/2 tsp. pepper

1/2 tsp. salt

1 tsp. fresh garlic, minced

1 can cream of mushroom soup

1 can of water

1 1/2 TBSP. beef boullion powder

3 TBSP. butter

1 small onion, chopped

1 TBSP. soy sauce

*sugar if too salty

*1 8 oz. cream cheese, cubed

*Egg noodles, cooked as directed

*Sour cream and chives, optional

Mix cubed steak, flour, pepper, salt and garlic. Add this and all ingredients, minus the ones with *. Cook on low for at least 5 hours, stirring occasionally. Last 1/2 hour, add the cubed cream cheese and sugar if needed. Serve over noodles. Serve chopped chives and sour cream on the side, for those who would like to add these.

Teriyaki Chicken

8-10 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

6 TBSP. brown sugar

1/2 c. soy sauce

3 TBSP. white sugar

1/2 c. water

1/2 tsp. ginger

Mix all ingredients and pour over chicken. Marinate for at least two hours. (Can be refrigerated overnight.) Bake at 350 degrees for 1 to 1 1/2 hours. Serve with rice. YUMMY!

Chicken and Green Chile Stew

4 stalks celery

3 TBSP. diced onions

1 c. flour (for roux)

1c. melted margarine

1 tub diced frozen green chiles (in freezer section)

1 c. cream

2 c. milk (or you can use 3 c. half and half to substitute for milk and cream)
2 TBSP. chopped jalapeno

1 bay leaf

3/4 tsp. coriander

1 1/2 tsp. cumin

2 TBSP. chicken bouillon

1 to 2 pound cooked chicken, shredded

1 gallon chicken stock (use stock from chicken or canned chicken broth)

1 pound grated cheese

Saute' celery, onions, green chilies, jalapeno and spices until tender. Add this to bouillon mixed into chicken stock. Bring to a boil and lower heat to simmer for about one hour. Make a roux using melted margarine and flour. Add slowly to soup base using a wire whisk. Simmer 15 to 20 minutes. Stir in cream and milk. Add chicken pieces and heat through. Serve with grated cheese on top.

I know that this one in particular is not a low fat meal and not a super quick meal BUT if you feel like splurging, I promise you, you will not be disappointed! This makes a great pot-luck item because then you can have a bowl and not feel the pressure to eat it all yourself!! Enjoy!

A Cute Cornicopia

2008-11-28T23:36:00.004-06:00

I just had to share. I made these for each place setting at the table for Thanksgiving. The photo doesn't really show how cute they were but they did turn out way cute. Next year I will try to find candy corn to put on the inside!

Blake's Birthday!!!

2008-11-28T22:36:00.011-06:00

It is so hard for me to believe that Blake has now turned 12! My children are growing up way too fast!!! Blake's birthday was on Thanksgiving this year and what a good natured boy he is....loving that fact that he was able to share his birthday with a holiday! I did my best to help make his day extra special but still felt a little bit underprepared as I had to rush into my closet to wrap his presents....after we had eaten the Thanksgiving dinner! His big gift this year was being able to go with Chris hunting elk. They left after the pie was served yesterday and I haven't heard if they have had any luck or not! If they get one, I'll post pictures!!!

Blake was my smallest baby. I had had a C-section with Zach and then had a normal delivery with Blake. I remember that as soon as Blake arrived, I looked at his tiny head and thought that it really wasn't unimaginable to have a head as small as that delivered in a normal way!! Weird thought I know but he really was very tiny! Blake came with spunk and a quick temper! When he was young I feared his teenage years because of the temper he had but as he has grown older a wonderful change has occurred!!! He has developed into one of the most sweet natured people I know. It is a rare occasion for him to lose his temper now. He is very studious and takes school very seriously. He goes the extra mile in most everything he does and takes pride in a job well done! The only unfortunate thing in Blake's life is the fact that he does not like salad dressing at all, even homemade ranch dressing! I know that for you Bingham relatives this will be hard to understand but remember, we all have our own little quirks!! He eats salad, just without the dressing. He loves cheese and spaghetti and cold cereal. In fact, he could live on cold cereal if I let him! (He has inherited this obsession from me!) Blake is a true friend and his closest friends are found within the walls of our home!

I will share with a couple of cute stories about Blake with you. When Blake was 2 he was very inquisitive! He would ask question after question and both Chris and I would get so tired from trying to come up with answers to the questions he would ask. About this time, Chris and I were studying the Old Testament and in Psalms the word 'Selah' is used quite frequently. One day we were eating lunch and the questions from Blake were at the point that we had had enough and so upon the next question posed by Blake, Chris looked at him and said, "Blake, Selah!" Blake sat there for a few seconds registering what Chris had just said and then uttered a very funny, "Lah!" We laughed and laughed over that!

When Blake was probably about 4 years old we were at the San Diego Zoo, which is HUGE and a little to big for such small children, but we were there and at one of the displays Blake informed us that he had to go to the bathroom. We told him that he would need to hold on until we could find a bathroom. A short time later, he reminded us again that he really needed to go. At this same time we were dealing with some of our other children who were creating a bit of stress and so out of frustration, Chris used some sarcasm and told Blake to just go over there (pointing to a stream). Well, children don't understand sarcasm too well and so the next thing we see is a huge arch coming from our dear Blake. Not knowing what to do, we tell him to stop and we quickly go and find a bathroom, with Blake walking with his hand down his pants to stop himself from going anymore. We should of just let him finish at the little stream! We continue to laugh at the situation we had placed our young Blake in and he laughs along with us!

During this same time of his life I was telling the boys bedtime stories one night. When I had finished, I kissed them all and tucked them in and then headed toward the door to leave. As I was leaving Blake sat up and asked me, "Mom, when is my baby sister coming?" I turned around very quickly and asked him what he has just said. He repeated the question again and the spirit shot through my body as he spoke. A few short weeks previously I had suffered a miscarriage and was feeling very leary about getting pregnant again but as he spoke this question, the spirit bore witness to me that we were indeed supposed to have another baby. When I did become pregnant, Blake would constantly tell me that it was his baby sister and that she was coming! He was right, our next baby born was Erin!!

Last story! Last week, Blake and I were finishing up his Faith in God requirements and we had to discuss agency. I asked Blake some questions and his answers were your good old Sunday School answers which are always right but I wanted him to really answer the questions from his heart and so I changed the question. I asked Blake what experiences he has had at school that has helped his testimony grow as he has used his agency to do what is right. He shared with me the fact that his friend had asked him what church he went to. When Blake responded that he was Mormon, another boy approached Blake and asked him if he had ever said a swear word. Blake responded that he had not and the boy then tried to tempt Blake into swearing, telling him that it was cool and fun to do. Blake told me that he and the friend that had asked him about church left the area to get away from this boy! (YEAH!!!) I then asked Blake why he didn't swear, pointing out that if he chose to do it at school, I may never know and it was something that a lot of the kids are doing. He then told me, "Mom, Heavenly Father always knows what I am doing!" I just had to grab him and hug him so tight because he understands something so important...Heavenly Father does know and we can't hide from him! Blake asked me after his interview with the Bishop, if I felt he was worthy to receive the priesthood and it was with a sure YES! that I gave him my answer! I am so thankful to have such a fine son!

Blake, I love you!!!!

"Leaving" Thanks

2008-11-18T10:16:00.006-06:00

I thought that I would share what we are doing as a family as Thanksgiving is next week! First of all, I'm not too crafty and so it is kind of embarressing to post what I have done but I know that you might be able to take this idea and make it your, in your own creative way! You have just over a week to enjoy celebrating gratitude!

I have wanted to do something as a family to help us focus on what we have that we are thankful for and to help us put greater effort into remembering. So, for the Family Home Evening lesson last night we went over the story of the Pilgrims and their desire to give thanks after such a hard start here in America. We looked in the 'For Strength of Youth' pamplet and read what our latter-day leaders have said in relation to our being grateful today. I found it quite interesting that gratitude is the second principle taught in this pamplet and that, if lived, will give us strength! In order to help us this week focus on gratitude, I have built "Our Gra'tree'tude" and I have paper leaves that we will use to "leave" our thanks. Each morning before scripture study, we will take a minute to read the leaves and then they will be hung on the tree. I am looking forward to seeing how many leaves appear on our tree! I know that this is something my family needs to be doing, especially as Christmas draws near and we tend to think, "What do I want to get for Christmas this year?" Let me know the twists you add if you decide to do this. Enjoy remembering!!!

An Unexpected Lesson

2008-11-13T21:56:00.002-06:00

I am not so good with writing my thoughts or even communicating them verbally. It is something that causes me great frustration especially when I feel things so strongly but lack the ability to deliver the words I feel with power. This is most definately a struggle I face as I long to be an effective teacher, NEVERTHELESS(I love this word!), I continue trying and hope that through the Lord's help, my desire, and continued effort, good things will come. I've been debating all day as to whether or not to share an experience I had today and have come to the conclusion that it is worth sharing. Please bear with my weakness of clear expression!

Today I attended the funeral of a friend. Her name is Jo Voss and she was 78 years old. I have known Jo for several years and she is one that I have felt a strong kinship towards. Whenever she would see me or I her we would embrace and she would lift my spirits by speaking kind words about me or my family. On several occasions Jo would call me to ask for a ride. She was always concerned about it being an inconvience but I always felt honored when the call would come. I remember not too long ago I was giving her a ride and the conversation turned, as it usually did, to what was going on in my life and the lives of my children. I had shared with her the fact that I was struggling with recurring back pain and that it had been so hard for me to keep up with all the activities of my family. She was so sympathetic and listened intently as I shared with her the fear I felt as I worried over the fact that this trial may be something I would struggle with for the rest of my life. Each time after that, Jo would always ask about my back and I would give her my report as to how I was doing.

Jo's own health has not been good. I have not ever seen Jo walk without her walker. I had asked her on occasion how her own health was and she would say(with a chuckle), "Oh, I'm hanging in there!" At times I could see that it was not going so well but she always had a smile and a hug and words telling me that she was doing alright. I always just thought that Jo was showing the signs of getting old...you know how the body just starts to get tired and things don't work as well as they used too! Well the last time I saw Jo I could see a definate difference in her appearance. She had lost quite a bit of weight and in a very short time too. I put my arms around her and asked if she was okay and she told me that she just didn't feel like eating much lately but that she was going to get it figured out and she was going to be okay. That was the last conversation I had with her.

Today I learned something I never knew and here is where I learned a great lesson. Jo had been fighting cancer for years! I never had any idea that she was facing such a trial...she never let it show! As I listened to her life story, I reflected on the conversations I had had with Jo. I saw my own trial of back pain in a much smaller light. I am somewhat embarressed inside over how self-centered I am and how I tend to focus too much on the problems I am facing. I have been thinking all day about this wonderful trait my friend Jo had, her ability to turn outside of herself, even in a most trying time. Jo suffered much but never let that suffering become who she was or become all consuming that she couldn't focus on others. Looking at her, now knowing what I know, I see that it strengthened her and probably helped ease the pain she had to be experiencing.

I see in her many characteristics of the Savior. President Grant Walton spoke of the specific trait of enduring with compassion. He pointed out so well the fact that while Jesus hung on the cross, in His agony He remembered those hanging next to Him and He remembered those kneeling at His feet. He did all He could at that moment to comfort those around Him. Today I saw how well Jo did the same for me!

I don't want this to be a forgotten lesson! I am going to try much harder to develop this characteristic that my friend Jo had which is a characteristic of the Savior! As Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin taught at the last General Conference, "Come what may and LOVE IT!" I'm so thankful for having known Jo Voss, I will miss her and it is with a heart full of gratitude that I share what I learned from her, with you!

Halloween Pics

2008-11-11T22:08:00.005-06:00

Finally Halloween Pictures!!!!

Here is Macie dressed as a witch! I was pretty impressed over the fact that she would allow me to put green face paint on her cute little face! Unfortunately she didn't like wearing her hat and so most people did not know what she was, but she had a great time and LOVED trick or treating! She finally understands how it works and most times remembered to say thank you!

Erin was our "Little Bo Peep" and I think she looks very pretty! Many thanks to my good friend Tracy for letting us use this costume! I think that Erin enjoyed the feeling of being all dressed up in such a pretty dress!

Here we have the "Men in Black"! I appreciated Zach so much by helping Cody pull off this duo. Cody's friend was going to be his partner but decided the day of not to and so Zach decided he would do it, instead of being Frankenstein. He is such a good big brother! When the night was done, he was glad he had done this with Cody and they had a great time together!

I love this costume! Blake is our cave man and did such a good job playing the part! He wore this at school too and the poor guy had a lot of kids thinking he had dressed up as a girl. All I have to say to that is if a girl looks like this...POOR GIRL!!! He had fun and didn't get too much candy which didn't bother him at all! Yeah!

I had to post this sweet picture of Erin and her awesome Daddy!

My sweet Dad! He is always such a good sport!

Family Home Evening

2008-10-30T07:41:00.003-05:00

We had a fun family home evening this past Monday and I thought I would pass the idea along. Maybe you have done this before but it was our first and I wish I would have taken a picture or two to share.

I gave each of my children $2 to spend on our meal. We then went to the store and went our separate ways in search of what we could find that was less then the two bucks. It was interesting to see what each person chose. I was kind of expecting a couple packages of cookies or bags of chips but we didn't get any! This is what we ended up with: mini-eggrolls, tostada shells with a small can of refried beans, Dora chicken noodle soup, grapes, grapefruit, ramen noodles with lime juice to squeeze on the noodles (very interesting!!!), and mini pizzas. It was quite a combination but what fun we had!!! Next time I think I will only give them $1 because we had quite a bit of leftovers and who wants to eat ramen noodles the next day?!

October Happenings

2008-10-21T23:21:00.011-05:00

We have had a busy October. Can you believe that it is almost over? The older I get, the faster time flies! Forgive me for such a long post!

This was our first big event for the month. The 8th grade band students from all middle schools here in C.G. were invited to play with the H.S. band during a home football game. What an awesome experience this was for us as Zach's parents. It was so rewarding to watch him perform with such a good band! It was my first home football game since graduating from H.S. and what fun it turned out to be. I saw several people I knew from school and it was lots of fun chatting and catching up. I also saw two boys I had "crushes" on while in high school and was very surprised at the lack of taste I had! I told Chris that I really scored by catching him!!!!!

Speaking of scoring...soccer is half way over! We have enjoyed this soccer season as the temperatures have started to get nice. The first weeks are not so fun as the heat makes it somewhat unbearable but once October is here we enjoy being outside! Chris is coaching Cody's team this year and has done an outstanding job. I wish I had a picture to post of him coaching but he is a bit camera shy.

Blake is the one in the center.

This is our Cody.

Erin is the one in the green shirt, standing to the right.

We had our good friends, the Beebe Family, over for F.H.E. and had a "Halloweenie" roast. The kids enjoyed this very much. The only sad event of the night was that I had accidentally killed the Beebe's youngest sons "pet grasshopper" that he had caught while being at our home. I felt pretty bad but my sweet Cody caught another one and thankfully it helped him to feel a little better. I've learned to make sure that the juice bottles do not have any "pets" in them before I put juice in them. What was I thinking?!

Over Fall break, Zach was a real helper and spent a whole day helping me clean and organize our garage. I wish I had before and after pictures to show you but what I do have is the result of bringing in the extra mattresses we had stored in the garage. The kids had a blast sliding down the stairs before going to bed.

This is Blake enjoying a ride before nighty night!We spent this last weekend in Freedonia, AZ , attending the funeral for Chris' grandma. Funerals are interesting events. We come together to remember the one that has left and then enjoy the company of those that are still here. I hope this doesn't come across wrong because we do mourn those that leave and tears are always shed but what a comfort to be with family. I am so thankful to be a part of such a wonderful family. I am thankful my children love and enjoy being around their cousins. Their cousins are becoming such an important part of their lives, just as mine have been in my own life. Words cannot express how grateful I am for family. I am so thankful our Heavenly Father has given us such a place to be while we are being tested here on earth. My family makes my life unbelievable!!!! I wouldn't want to do it without them.
Last but definately NOT least is the fact that today is my anniversary. I have been married to Chris now for 14 years and the years we have spent together have been the best years of my life. Not to get too mushy but I want to share with you a bit of what my heart feels. Many of you have known me most or all of my life and you have seen me as I have made choices along my lifes journey, some good and some not so good. I want to share with you the experience I had that changed my life forever.

As I struggled in my late teens, I longed to do the things that my Heavenly Father wanted me to do. I felt such a pull between the two forces of good and evil. When I gained the strength and courage to finally shun the evil and anchor myself to the good, my life changed dramatically.

I was dating a young man who was not a member of the church. He and I had been "pretending" to be engaged for reasons that are quite silly nevertheless it was something that was going on in my life. After some time I began to tire of this silliness and told this man that I wanted to stop the games. At this time he looked at me in all seriousness and asked me the question that helped put me back on the path I needed to be on and it was, "Well aren't we going to get married?" This question had the same affect upon me that I am sure an angel would have had, had one appearred to me. All of the teachings from my youth of temple marriage came flooding to my mind and I finally had some sense knocked into me! All of a sudden I realized that what I wanted most was not what I was living for and I wanted a temple marriage! This man was not one who was worthy to take me to the temple and definately not one I would want to spend forever with. Immediate changes occurred in my life and miraculously over a very short time I came into contact with my future husband.

I have reflected upon this time in my life many times and have seen a tender, tender mercy occur from a loving Heavenly Father. I didn't deserve the blessing that had been bestowed upon me but with a grateful heart I accepted it. For reasons I am not sure of, I was blessed with a companion who has been more than I ever hoped or dreamed. He has loved and accepted me and helped me to develop into the person I am today. In all honesty, 14 years ago as I knelt across from him in the temple, I didn't know what I was really getting. What a treasure I was accepting as my husband! I have read that the most important decisions we make on earth are when we get married, where we get married and who we marry. The decisions I made to marry when I was but a youngling, to marry in the Mesa Temple, and to marry Chris have been the BEST decisions I have ever made! How I have loved and continue to love being married to my own special prince charming!

My Tagged Photo

2008-10-20T23:27:00.002-05:00

Are you wondering why I chose to post such a picture? Well, my dear friends, my sweet cousin Katie tagged me! I was given instructions as to which file to go to and which picture to choose. Can you believe that this is what you get?! Let me explain why I have such a picture stored on my computer.

I have tired of my childrens messy rooms. Perhaps this is not something that is common at your home but at mine they seem to always be a mess. Each time the rooms are asked to be cleaned I never find them to my liking....things are in the corners, under the beds, stuffed in closets, etc. etc. I have helped many times getting the rooms cleaned as Iwould like them to be and then explain to the children that this is the way a clean room looks and that this is the way it needs to look each time they clean it! Unfortunately, it has never worked. SO....I got this brilliant idea of helping them again get the room as I like and then taking a picture! I have posted the picture in each of their rooms as a guide to what the room should look like when they are done. I wish that I could report that it has worked! It hasn't but I'm going to keep on trying!!!!

Life with the Birds

2008-10-10T13:21:00.006-05:00

For Christmas last year we bought our family two lovebirds. Over conference weekend Chris brought them out of their cage to interact with our family. I thought you might enjoy some of the pictures I got. It was lots of fun to see the expressions on everyones face as the birds would fly back and forth between everyone. These creatures are beautiful!

And the Winner Is....

2008-09-30T17:13:00.003-05:00

Just a quick update on Cody! When I picked him up from school yesterday, he headed to the car looking not too happy. He pulled a little trick on me and enlisted the help of Erin to do it. They convinced me that he had not been elected to the position of Student Body Secretary and so I was doing what any normal mother would do...give words of praise for trying your best and that it's not about the winning but about the trying! He then let the secret out that he was pulling my leg and that he had indeed been elected! I couldn't believe it! He's a sly one! So, if you have any good tricks up your sleeves of a good little prank to pull on a cute 10 year old boy, PLEASE share your ideas!

Cody's Busy Day

2008-09-25T22:49:00.007-05:00

What a day it has been for Cody! He is running for Student Body Secretary and today was the day he gave his speech. He has been quite nervous the last couple days in anticipation of today and so this morning I encouraged him by telling him to imagine it being a testimony meeting! He smiled and said that he could do that! I told one of my good friends about this encouragement and she laughingly replied that she hoped he didn't end his speech "In the name of Jesus Christ"!I thought that was pretty funny and hoped the same thing! He did really well! As you can see from the pictures, we used the "cuteness" card with Macie. We have done this with each of our boys and it has helped! ......Politics! (We choose to think of it as good old-fashioned family support.) We'll find out tomorrow how he did. Hope he can sleep good tonight.

A cute story I have to share about today...when I picked Cody up from school I asked him if he was super nervous the whole morning as he waited for the speeches. He told me that he got so nervous that he asked to go to the bathroom and in his stall he said a prayer! I loved that! Heavenly Father is always there...even in a bathroom stall! I love that Cody sought to pray in his hour of need. These youth are something pretty special...definately saved for the last days!!!

One more story about Cody. Tonight he received his Bear award in Cub Scouts. We have an outstanding Cubmaster and she always finds a creative way to award those that are advancing in their rank. Tonight Cody was "attacked" by a screaming bear. It was awesome! Cody was the perfect "ham" as we saw him fight off the bear. He came crawling into the gym with blood marks on his face and arms and a bears claw in his hand. It was the perfect way to end a very busy day for this boy!

P.S. As you can tell my camera takes terrible pictures inside of the church...it most definately can't be the photographer's fault! J/K. I need to figure out how to get good pictures in the church. They usually are dark or fuzzy. Any suggestions?

Precious

2008-09-15T23:28:00.003-05:00

I couldn't resist taking this snapshot of my girls as they were sleeping one night! Aren't they precious!?! They are sleeping in the bed my dad, myself, and my sisters slept in when we were young. I am such a sentimental person!!

Double Digits

2008-09-15T23:22:00.004-05:00

It is hard for me to believe that my third son, Cody, is now ten! We celebrated his birthday this last week and had such a good time with family and friends. We are so thankful that Cody is a part of our family! He is a tender boy that has a gift of making friends with everybody! I enjoy watching Cody as he plays....his imagination is out of this world. I really can't comprehend where the time has gone! It is going by too quickly! We love you Cody!!!!

Macie Goes To Preschool

2008-09-15T23:09:00.004-05:00

Macie has now started going to preschool three days a week for 2 1/2 hours. I thought that with this time I would get a lot of extra things done. This has not been the case yet but one good thing has come into my life from this change and that is that I now can attend the temple almost every week! I have a couple of friends that go and we rotate babysitting so that it is possible. It has been awesome to finally be able to do this! Here's a look at Macie and her friends, on her first day of school.

Labor Day Weekend Campout

2008-09-02T23:31:00.007-05:00

Who feels like camping?
Here are a few pictures we took camping over Labor Day Weekend.
This picture is for Kevin and Becky...I know you probably wished you could of been here to help us change our tire!!! Hopefully next time! It never fails that we have car trouble when we go on vacation!

Here are Erin and Macie looking for the bears!

Rachel and Megan were so grateful to have Zach around to help out with their boys. Zach you ROCK!!!

Can you believe the size of this deer?!? J/K!!! Herman is our friendly target and I promise that we are not a bunch of rednecks!

This is Blake and one of his best buds, Zack. They spent most of their time cutting the ferns and building a fort. Oh the memories that we make when we are young!!!

Do you like our pretty clean faces!?! We were riding with a group on our quads and as you can see we weren't always the leaders...we learned that dirt doesn't taste so good!

A Teenager Lives at My House!

2008-09-02T23:17:00.004-05:00

It is hard to believe that 13 years ago we welcomed our little Zachary into the world! I can't believe how the time has flown! I am not very good at putting my feelings into words and I wish that I could express through print just how much I love him! He has been such a blessing in my life. I know that he has been sent here during the last days because of how valiant he was in the spirit world! He is one that is in possession of such goodness and strength! I am thankful to call him my friend and especially my son! Here are a few pictures of my special teenager!

Cough Cough Cough!!! Too much smoke!

Welcome to Lake Chase

2008-08-28T21:30:00.004-05:00

Living here in the desert is especially exciting during the monsoon season. Each year we look forward to the rain that comes during these storms. We have had to dig a water retention on our property to collect the rain when it comes. My children are in heaven each time it pours because it means swimming in Lake Chase!

Erin's Birthday

2008-08-16T11:32:00.007-05:00

We celebrated Erin's 7th birthday this last week. It is hard to believe that in one year she will be getting baptized. She is such a sweet child and we love her so much. She brightens the lives of those she comes in contact with.

All dressed up for her party!

Getting ready to go boating!

What a fun way to spend a birthday! We love you Erin!!!!!

Back to School!

2008-08-16T10:55:00.009-05:00

It is hard to believe that the time has arrived for backpacks, lunch boxes, and homework! Here are the pictures of my children going back to school.

Erin is in 2nd . Cody is in 4th .

Blake is in 6th (middle school..ahhhh!) Zach is in 8th (next year High School.....AHHHHH!)

Macie will be starting pre-school!

I love this bundle of treasure!

As you can see, there were no tears this year! They were all very excited to be getting back into the routine of school!

Girls Just Want to have Fun!

2008-07-09T23:54:00.030-05:00

I had the cool opportunity to go New York City with Mom Chase, Becky and Amber. It was the first that I had ever taken such a trip and what an adventure we had!!! I have learned just how much I LOVE the west and will enjoy more fully the wide open spaces and the slower pace that we live. I am grateful for my husband. If it had not been for his support (both physically and financially) I could not have gone. He, Kevin and Dad Chase stayed in Casa Grande with a house full of 10 children!!! Yes, I know I owe him BIG!!!! I love you, Sweets! I'll post some of the highlights.

Here we are on top of The Empire State Building....I'll admit I was a bit frightened by the height!

Ode to the subway! How thankful I was for hand sanitizer!!!

Ouch!

Don't worry Dad...he's made of wax!

Hee, hee, hee...size is a relative thing!

We know...modest is hottest!!!!

What an adventure we had biking through Central Park. I was feeling quite homesick on this day but the fresh air in the park and my patient friends helped me to enjoy the rest of the trip! Thanks you guys--you're the best!

For those of you who have seen "Night at the Museum", this is who I had to find, "Gum, Gum".

This is "The Beast" and was most definately a highlight of our trip! We had so many good laughs aboard this boat!

I love you Amber!

Travelling at 45 mph! Wahoo! We had good entertainment while on board. We left the boat a bit more wet then when we arrived!

One of the adventures we had was trying to find our way! Thankfull we only got lost a couple of times!

Another highlight was getting to visit Ellis Island.

After visiting Ellis Island we were treated to a downpour of rain! The funny thing about this adventure in the rain is that we had thrown our umbrella's away the day before because it had not rained and we were tired of carrying them! It really was fun to play in the rain though...it made me feel like a little child!

Our last day was spent in Philadelphia and it was so amazing to see where our country began! I enjoyed it so much.

This was a picture that just had to be taken! As we toured the sights in Philly, we had to drag along our luggage! We had to have our luggage searched twice and the lines we created because of this procedure was really kind of funny!
This is us after we landed back in Phoenix! After a long, muggy day in Philly and being up for 19 plus hours, we were all pretty tired but oh the memories we made! Thanks girls for such an awesome trip! I love you and I will remember it always! (Let's start thinking of what we want to do next!)

Max Powell Family Reunion

2008-07-09T23:31:00.010-05:00

We had a great family reunion with Chris' family. Mom and Dad Chase were in charge of the reunion and they did a super great job! Fun was had by all who attended! Enjoy some of the pictures!

Laundry Marathon

2008-06-05T00:13:00.005-05:00

What on earth is that you may ask?! Well...that is the result of my laundry marathon! I know that this is a bit silly but I have been wanting to do a weeks worth of laundry, fold it all and before anyone puts their piles away, measure the total heighth. I should of counted the loads I did but since I didn't, I can tell you that that mess of clean, folded laundry reaches a total of 27 feet!!! Can you believe that!?! I DID NOT build a big enough laundry room as you can tell by my folding table! It required a great amount of balance to keep the piles from falling over. I am thinking we need to make a large donation to the D.I.!

Good Times!

2008-06-03T09:26:00.014-05:00

The Alan Bingham family has a tradition of camping over Memorial Day weekend. This year proved to be quite adventurous as we faced white out snow the first night! We had a blast and it will be something we will always remember! Enjoy some of the pics!

This is our family in front of the Lava Cave in Flagstaff, Az, preparing to enter!

We had a blast finding our way inside with our flashlights!

Thought you might like to see what Macie did while I took a nap! All of my games had been scattered throughout the tent! I just love Macie!

Don't let their scowls scare you...they really are nice lumberjacks!

And last but not least...OUR FAMILY...the calm...

and not so calm!!!!

We missed you Mom; Jeff and Annie; Tim and Lorna; and Rachel!

Seminary's Out for Summer!!!!

2008-05-16T11:39:00.007-05:00

Wahhoo! I am done with seminary (for the school year)!!!! Please don't get me wrong...I loved it but boy am I ready for a break and my awesome family is too! We are ready for summer!

I've learned that truly my family can do hard things together! Yeah, we did it!

Blake's Trip to Space

2008-05-15T18:36:00.001-05:00

Blake enjoyed a trip to space last week!!! He was able to go on a field trip to participate in a NASA flight simulator! He has been blessed with a very intelligent brain, especially when it comes to math, which is the reason he was able to participate in this field trip. I had joked with Blake, questioning him about who he had inherited his math brains from and in a very serious tone he

replied,"DEFINITELY from my Dad!" I had a pretty good chuckle over that!

I have a reputation in my home when it comes to math! When help is needed with their math homework they know that I can only remember so much and so the cry for help is always to their dear ol' dad!

Blake is wearing glasses and fair skinned.

Erin's Gift

2008-05-14T09:57:00.000-05:00

My oldest daughter is Erin and she is 6 years old. She was born singing and already I have seen her potential. Her music teacher at school also noticed this gift and she was assigned to sing a small solo for the schools spring concert. She practiced and practiced and drove her brothers absolutly crazy! I had to be quick to correct them as I didn't want them to squish her desire to sing in front of others!

On the day of her performance she woke up not feeling very well. I didn't find out until later that while I was at seminary she had asked Chris for a blessing to help her so that she could perform in the evening. I thought of what faith she has in the power of the priesthood and what choice spirits are here in these last days! When I picked her up from school, I could tell that she was still not feeling well. I brought her home and had her take a nap. When she woke up from the nap she was crying, thinking she had slept through the night and missed her concert. I calmed her fears and then loaded her up with Ibuprofen as she was burning with a fever. Oh the prayer I offered as I didn't know what to do! I felt the peace come and asked Erin what she would like to do. She said that she wanted to try to do her part!

I was so nervous for her! She is such a sweet and timid girl and I worried over whether the sight of the crowd would bring her to tears but she was so brave and did an outstanding job! It's one of those moments that bring tears to your eyes as you see your child doing something very hard and succeeding!

Everytime I experience this feeling with any of my children, it always causes me to reflect on how our Heavenly Father must feel as He watches us here on earth. He is our cheerleader and oh how He cheers as we work so hard and then accomplish...even if it is not perfect and yes, EVEN WHEN we fail miserably! The joy comes from the journey, from watching us learn and grow! Don't you just love growing older and experiencing these feelings as a parent that help us feel such a kinship to our Heavenly Father! It's at these moments I say, "This is what it's all about!"

Macie's Birthday

2008-05-13T23:38:00.000-05:00

Macie's birthday was today!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my Macie who is now 4! We had a lot of fun together. I am posting a couple of pictures of her. Isn't she the cutest little thing?!

I have to say that I didn't do what I normally do for the birthday cake. I try to be the "supermom" and make extra cool cakes but today I was just so grateful that Chris had ordered a cake from a friend of ours and that it was delivered today! I printed some pictures of some "modest"(I'll explain later) princesses and one of our birthday princess and put them on the top of the cake! Macie could not have been happier! I felt so relieved to have such a happy, content Macie! I don't have to go to bed feeling guilty over not baking the cake myself!!!!

As far as the "modest" princesses go: Macie can't stand any of the princesses that bear their cleavage or show their midriffs! GO MACIE!!!! Modesty rocks!