Grateful November, Day 30

Audrey sings with a little girls' choir called Sunshine Singers. (The Singers Company in our town is for much younger girls!) Tonight, they had a performance and did a lovely job. Audrey has a beautiful voice; gets it from her daddy! This is her with her friend, Abbi. Below is the song in which Audrey had a solo. (She is the first soloist in the song.)

I am grateful for my friend, Laurie, who started this group and who does such a great job teaching and encouraging these 10 and 11-year-old girls! 

Grateful November, Day 29

I am thankful for a few little things today:

• our excellent piano teacher, Mrs. Vaughan. She pushes and pushes to get the best out of Audrey and Parker, and they are doing a great job. Audrey is playing at the Methodist church again on Sunday, and then she is playing the prelude music in our services that afternoon. Parker is continuing to grow in skill as he practices. He will be playing the "pre-music" at the recital later this month. And it's all a lot easier when it's not baseball season!
• Prizes! I have won two contests this month: one for Audrey's Halloween costume and one through Instagram. My prizes are so fun! Gift certificates to a steak house, Macy's, a photo shoot, Build-a-Bear goodies, and $50 at one of my favorite shops. Powerball in my future? :)
• fun with my friends. I needed a few minutes away from home last night, and went to a favorite antique shop with my friends, Chris and Christine. Warm cider, gooey butter cakes in the tea room and lots of pretty Christmas goodies. It was fun.

Grateful November, Day 28

I am grateful for my family. We have three kids, and sometimes I wish we had more. I think it's only natural to wonder what another baby or two would mean to the family. But ultimately, we are happy with our three little people. They are suited to our family dynamic, because, I guess, they are the ones that have created that dynamic. We fit snugly in our little house, and it looks like we will be here for a while. We have fun together, we like to snuggle on our one couch, and we are happy. This is the blessing that means the most to me. I am so thankful that Heavenly Father has blessed me with these people in my life. I am so excited to watch my children grow and change as they get older. I love the people that they are now and can't wait to see what they become.

Grateful November, Day 27

I had lunch with Miles today. I am thankful for my kids' schools. Our elementary school truly feels like home; the people there are incredible. Of course everything is not perfect, but we are very satisfied with the environment that our boys are in each day. They both have fabulous teachers, and the staff and co-curricular teachers are also wonderful. I am involved pretty regularly at their school, and once a week at Audrey's school. I think it is important to experience, first-hand, the place where my kids spend so much time. Plus, being friendly with the principal is never a bad idea.

Grateful November, Day 26

Poor Audrey came home sick today. She had only been at school for about 25 minutes, but had an almost-fainting-spell and an upset stomach. School is not a fun place to be when you feel lousy, so I went and picked her up after she called at 8:15. I am thankful that I can stay at home to be there for my kids when they need a break from life! I am so grateful for Neal's job that allows me that flexibility.

Grateful November, Day 25

Today was a nice, quiet Sunday. We only have a few more weeks of 2:30-5:30 church, so I am trying to focus on the great things about having church so late. Like the fact that we don't have to set an alarm and can take our time getting ready. Coming home in the dark and feeling like Monday is creeping at our backs while we decompress after church is not so great. But we had a nice day, anyway. I am thankful for our awesome home teacher, for my kids' primary teachers (I subbed in Miles' class today), and for a beautiful number by the ward choir today. It was a lovely, spirit-filled experience.

Grateful November, Day 24

Julia and Audrey went bow-hunting today at the archery range. I am so grateful for this friendship, and for the friendship of our families! Thanks to Julia's dad, Nate, for taking the girls out! They have been asking for MONTHS to go shoot arrows. I have a feeling we will be going back out there soon.

Grateful November, Day 23

Today was so nice. We all slept in (no Black Friday shoppers in this house!), then did some work outside before joining some friends at the park for some pick-up basketball and soccer. We had leftovers at a friends' house, came home and relaxed together. I like days like today. I am thankful for an easy life, filled with together time and friends. Can't every day be a holiday?

Grateful November, Day 22

I love these little karate people that Miles draws. This was his placemat from his feast at school.

We had a nice, relaxing Thanksgiving. We stayed here at home and spent the evening with our dear friends, Nate and Lauren Wright. It was perfect; they made meat, rolls and pies, and we made a bunch of side dishes. (It was really nice NOT to make rolls this year!)

 Before we went to their house, we went for a short walk. All of the trees on our street are so golden right now. It looks beautiful!

The coppery red ones match Audrey's hair!

Kids' table.

After dinner, games and pie, we pretended that we were going to go Black Friday shopping and went through all the ads. I am so grateful that Black Friday shopping is not part of our family tradition!

I am thankful for dear friends who feel like family. I love these people!

Grateful November, Day 21

Today, Neal and I celebrated fourteen years of marriage! We had a really fun evening, it was nice to have a date in the middle of the week. Hooray for Thanksgiving break and an available sitter! We had dinner at Lonesome Dove Western Bistro (yum) in Fort Worth, near the stockyards. It was completely empty down there because of the holiday, but it was nice to stroll hand in hand. After that, we went to the movies and saw Lincoln, which was awesome.

My anniversary peonies.

I love Neal so much and am so grateful every day for the life we have created together and the blessings we have been given. Life is good with Neal by my side. Here's to many more anniversaries!

Grateful November, Day 20

My friend from BYU, Kristen, and her husband and three boys had an unfortunate change in travel plans tonight that resulted in a three-hour layover here in Dallas. She texted me to let me know she would be here, and since we haven't seen each other in probably 13 years, it was necessary for me to go give her a hug! I am so grateful for dear friends in my life and for technology, which helps us keep in touch.

Grateful November, Day 19

Our awesome Cubmaster offered to host a non-official camp out for the Webelos and some of the older Bear scouts tonight. I am so grateful that he did! As the Webelos leader, I have found that it is difficult to get some of the outdoor requirements done without camping out. And since the church scout troops aren't supposed to camp overnight, I would have to really go out of my way to make that happen. But an unofficial camp out thrown by a dad and mom? Perfect!

These friends have an incredible back yard, complete with treehouse, creek, trampoline, zip line, ropes course, etc. 

Neal stuck around for a while and snapped this campfire photo.

No wonder these two are friends! Parker and Tyler.

Super cool. Yay for helpful people who are in to this sort of thing so I don't have to be!

Grateful November, Day 18

I read this quote from Gordon B. Hinckley in Sunday School today and just really liked it. Especially the idea of our "custodial relationship" to our children. I am thankful for the opportunity to attend church each week. I learn so much.

“Never forget that these little ones are the sons and daughters of God and that yours is a custodial relationship to them, that He was a parent before you were parents and that He has not relinquished His parental rights or interest in these His little ones. Now, love them, take care of them. Fathers, control your tempers, now and in all the years to come. Mothers, control your voices; keep them down. Rear your children in love, in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Take care of your little ones. Welcome them into your homes, and nurture and love them with all of your hearts. They may do, in the years that come, some things you would not want them to do, but be patient, be patient. You have not failed as long as you have tried. Never forget that” (Salt Lake University Third Stake conference, 3 Nov. 1996).

Grateful November, Day 17

We had an amazing turnout at the Food for the Soul Thanksgiving Food and Clothing Giveaway. I was the volunteer coordinator and was so proud to have dozens of volunteers there to help our neighbors "shop." The founders of the charity were moved to tears when we gathered to pray before the even began. They have never had such support. Hooray! It was really wonderful to get my kids involved. They helped people shop, carried goods to their cars, and organized coat hangers. There was a lot of work to do!

Miles and Parker started Karate classes last week. They have been begging to start ever since the middle of baseball season. Once the season ended, we did some research, found a class they could attend together, and signed them up. The most exciting part, however, is the uniform. Last night, we went down to Weatherford to have dinner with Neal's dad and Gail. Afterward, Miles showed us some moves.

Grateful November, Day 16

I spent my morning helping my friends at a local charity set up for a Thanksgiving food and clothing giveaway that will be held tomorrow. It was tiring and a LOT of work, but so many people showed up to help and we had it all done in a little over two hours. I am thankful for opportunities to serve. They don't normally fall in our laps, it takes active seeking to find ways to help people, but I can't think of a better way to spend my time.

Grateful November, Day 15

Today, I am grateful for my dearest friends. I see my gal pal, Tiffany, on a twice daily basis because we carpool together. It's pretty hard to hide anything from someone you see that often. We see each other at our best and our worst, and I'm grateful for her constancy and example. Today, she offered to pick up all seven children and let me stay at home. She knew that I had a crazy week and had to let a lot of things go that I normally wouldn't. I appreciate her so much, and loved my extra couple of hours of peace and quiet in my house. Thank you, Tiffany!

Grateful November, Day 14

Miles' Kindergarten class had a Thanksgiving Program and feast today. He was so excited, and talked about it for days beforehand. He was a Native American named Flowing River. I am thankful that I live in a country with a beautiful and complicated history, and in a place where that history is celebrated and taught in a way that is in accordance with my beliefs.

Tonight, Parker received his Bear award at Pack Meeting. He is such a great boy. We had fun getting the pin and patch and saluting his achievement with his buddies.

Grateful November, Day 13

Miles makes just about everything he can think of out of Legos. It is truly amazing, he has such skills! We are starting a blog for him soon so we can show all of you his creations. I am thankful for his active little brain!

Audrey was asked to be an angel in a Nativity Scene that was being filmed and photographed for Glenn Beck's show. He is a friend of ours, as his family is in our ward. They are really nice people, and though I am not particularly a fan of his, we are grateful for the people who have moved here to work for him, as they are some of our dear friends now. I am thankful that Audrey had this fun opportunity! During the rehearsal on Tuesday night, the kids needed entertaining while the grow-ups finished up some preparations. So David Osmond (who, I guess was on American Idol) sang them some primary songs with his guitar. It was a pretty cool moment; he has a lovely voice. I'll make sure I post details about when and where the show can be seen later in December.

Grateful November, Day 12

Tonight, I am grateful for a cozy home and for a husband who knows how to build a fire. We have long since realized that our house is better suited for a hot day than a cold night. I guess that is just the way they build houses down here. The minute the temperatures are in the 30s, we seem to feel it in the house! Our nights are chilly these days, we are supposed to have a freeze tonight! I am thankful for our warmth, slippers, pjs, and hot chocolate.

Grateful November, Day 11

Neal and the kids at a patriotic event last year.

Today, I am grateful for the people in my life who have served our country. Besides my own grandfathers and other family members who served in the military, we have several people close to our family here who are active military or are veterans. Brother Hinis is the sweetest man in our ward. He is always happy, has the best patriotic neckties, and extends to everyone he meets a palpable love, adoration and admiration. I want to be just like him. Our home teacher, Brother Stitzer, is a Colonel in the Air Force. He is the most dutiful person I know, is exact and strict in his standards, and kind and funny to boot. When he comes to visit us in his uniform, it's about the coolest thing ever. I am thankful for their service, and for their example to my children. Happy Veterans' Day!

Grateful November, Day 10

Neal and I went to the temple this evening with some friends. I am thankful for a babysitter who makes time to come be with my kids (free of charge for church events); for our friends for being forces for good in our lives; for Neal, for being a worthy and loving husband; for tacos and gelato; and for the temple, for providing peace in my life and for giving me a glimpse into the happy and love-filled existence that I believe God has in store for me one day.

Grateful November, Day 9

Audrey and I were able to go to a local production of The Diary of Anne Frank with our friends, Sandi and Macie, on Friday night. It was a very moving play, and we had a good time. I am thankful that I have a little girl who will come with me to things! It saves Neal a lot of trouble. :)

On Saturday morning, we joined with members of our community to honor veterans at Keller Town Hall. They had a replica of the Liberty Bell that we were able to ring. Super cool! I am thankful to live in a wonderful place. We have so many opportunities to be involved, to serve, and to enjoy life here in Keller, Texas!

Grateful November, Day 8

Today, I am grateful for the temple. Since Miles started attending school, I have been able to serve in the temple almost weekly, and it has blessed my life so much. I have had beautiful experiences there that are unforgettable and meaningful on many levels. I know that I am blessed for serving there and the peace that I gain from attending is immeasurable. I was able to go yesterday, and I was seeking that peace so fervently. I did feel better about everything after my time inside, and was able to reflect all the way home about my gratitude and blessings.

Grateful November, Day 7

Audrey made these little goodies for us at Activity Days today, and it was such a bright spot in an otherwise dismal day. I am thankful for her kind, sweet heart, and for her leaders for their inspired project. Just another way that the Lord has blessed me today.

Grateful November, Day 6

I am grateful for my friends. They are such a support to me, and though we are all heartbroken today, I know that we are strong. We are women who can handle anything, I truly believe that. I am in all black today, taking a cue from a friend who wore mourning clothes in high school after Clinton won. It's the only way I can outwardly show how sad I am that Mitt has lost. I'm trying to move on. I am vowing to commit myself even more fully to my family and my faith. It is up to me to teach my children the right way to live, the right way to treat people, and the right path to take to salvation. I know that I can do it; I just can't pay attention to the news. :/

Grateful November, Day 5

Today, I am grateful for Julianne, my younger sister, who celebrated a birthday today! Here she is with Audrey, in 2002. She is such a wonderful woman and I am so proud to call her my sister! She is truly a sister in every sense of the word, not only to me, but to women around the world. I love you, Julianne!

Grateful November, Day 4

Cranberry Orange Bread I made whilst fasting this morning. I tell you what, fasting until the end of 2:30-5:30 church is killer. I never think I am going to make it; but by the end of the day, I am fulfilled and happy.

Today, I am grateful for so many things.

• My friends who have stepped up to help me serve with Food for the Soul. It is a local charity that helps children in our school district who are on free or reduced lunch at school. On the weekends, FFTS sends each of these children home with a backpack full of food to get them through the weekend. FFTS has committed to providing Thanksgiving Dinner for 150 families, and as soon as I put the word out that we needed help (food donations and volunteer hours), I had almost a dozen friends step up. I love that about my community!
• The nice policewoman who did NOT give me a ticket last night, but let me go with just a warning. I was trying to get a hot cheeseburger home to my hungry son, and wasn't driving as carefully as I should have been. Thank you, Police Lady!
• Neal's mom and the holidays. Pretty much all of the food that we eat around here at Thanksgiving and Christmas originated on her holiday dinner table, including the bread above. I love this time of year, because we feel closer to Mama by eating her food. We miss her so much and often wonder how life would be different if she were still here with us. The holidays make the idea of her being here seem more real.
• My wonderful ward and the family we have found in our church community here. I was so uplifted today at church. Of course, I am fully expecting to have a nervous breakdown on Tuesday while the country is voting. I have prayed and fasted multiple times for the people of this nation to look into their hearts when they are in the voting booth. To seek out God's will and to do the right thing (voting for Mitt)! I have a peaceful feeling about everything, I really do. I think Mitt will win, and I pray that our country will come together regardless of the outcome. Baby steps till Tuesday night. I also pray that this will actually be OVER on Tuesday night, and not weeks from now!

And now, for some yummy bread. (I made half of this today. It made one loaf pan and three mega muffins.)

Cranberry Bread

Courtesy of Annis H*

Makes 1 small and 3 medium loaves. Half of this makes 2 medium loaves. Trying to make one regular sized loaf (standard loaf pan) with half of the recipe is not a great idea. :)

6 c. flour
3 c. sugar
3 whole eggs
4 1/2 t. baking powder
1 1/2 t. baking soda
3 cups chopped, fresh cranberries
1 T. salt
3/4 c. shortening (or butter)
3 T. orange rind
2 1/4 c. orange juice
1 1/2 c. chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)

Sift dry ingredients. Cut in shortening. Combine orange juice, rind and eggs. Pour over all at once, into dry ingredients. Mix enough to dampen. Do not over mix or it will be dry. Carefully fold in nuts and cranberries. Bake in greased pans at 325 for 1 hour. Do not bake in convection oven.

Grateful November, Day 3

Miles had his last baseball game with the Giants today. He had fun on this team and we all made some new friends. He had two great hits today (without the tee), and did a good job at third and short stop. (He's on the far right, by the coach.)

This afternoon, Miles and Audrey both had birthday parties to attend. Neal was at the nursery buying bromeliads, so Parker and I took a bike ride. The neighborhood behind ours has nice sidewalks, a pretty pond (and fancy houses). We rode around, paused for a bit to watch the ducks, and came home. It was a beautiful evening, and I am thankful that Parker and I had some time together.

Grateful November, Day 2

Today was a really beautiful day. It was warmer than normal for a November second, but it was perfect for the activities we had planned! The boys had a Fun Run at school and they did a great job! Later that evening, Miles had a baseball game. I am grateful to live in a place where the sun shines and there are lots of trees. We get rain about once a week on average, and it suits us just right.

I'm also thankful for my healthy children, whose little bodies do everything they are required to do. I am thankful that we don't suffer from illness or disease and that we can exercise, sleep and eat as we please. Hooray for health!

Grateful November, Day 1

Today, I am grateful that my children have opportunities to expand their minds. This is Audrey working with her DI team today. I am thankful for my friend, Sandi, who is their leader, and that our family situation is conducive to extra-curricular activities! I know that there are so many children who would be great on a team like this, but their economic or family situation prevent them from having opportunities to advance.

Last year, after Parker was hit by a kid at school, and after I found out what child it was, I truly forgave him and prayed that he would have comfort and peace in his home. Someone mentioned to me that although Parker wasn't necessarily a target (I think he was just the closest kid during an outburst by the boy), it is possible that the child has some sort of jealousy toward the more privileged boys at school. Boys who get to play baseball and have cool shoes and seem to have a lot of friends. My heart goes out to underprivileged children. I am working with a couple of organizations here in our town to help these kids, and I like to get my family involved in service opportunities that are local and meaningful. It makes me feel better to do something.