Monday, December 28, 2009

Final 2009 Post

Well, I just wanted to do a wrap-up for 2009. See how far I've come & how far I need to go. I am working on my goals for next year. It will be a new blog with a new title. Let me know if you are still interested in participating!
Incidentally, if anyone has a catchy title for next year... ("Start again in 2010" or "Write with a pen in 2010"), let me know! :)

Here's how I feel about my goals for this year:

TOP 5 GOALS FOR 2009:
1. To be able to see myself and others as Jesus sees us.
Still have a long way to go on this. A long way. But I do think I inched closer to this goal.
2. To serve others more often and more cheerfully.
Not anywhere where I was hoping I'd be. Especially when I don't get much sleep. This will definitely be something I will be revisiting next year.
3. STOP attacking my face, arms, and legs by popping zits.
I've regressed on this in the past couple months.
4. Media: Avoid media with swearing, sex, or violence.
I think overall, I have progressed pretty well in this category. I'm much more careful about what I watch, read, or listen to. I'm definitely finding more fulfillment in media that lifts me closer to my Savior.

"B" GOALS (important, but not top 5):
1. Prayerfully attend the temple no less than 10 times.
ACCOMPLISHED! Between our sisters temple trips and Jason & I's temple dates, this goal was ACCOMPLISHED! I truly appreciate the temple being so close.
2. Stay out of debt and Pay tithing and generous fast offering every month.
ACCOMPLISHED!
3. Write in my journal once a week (doesn't include blogging)
Haven't been perfect, but I've been better. I hope to do even better next year.
4. 1 anniversary vacation, 3 family vacations (includes camping), 1 "lovers get-away", and 1 "girls only" getaway!
(mostly) ACCOMPLISHED: Anniversary vacation to Alaskan Inn, 3 family vacations (St. George & camping), didn't get to the "lovers get-away", but we got our girls get-away!
5.When fasting, start the night before (5pm Sat-5pm Sun)
Didn't happen with pregnancy & breastfeeding, but hope to next year when I'm done breastfeeding.
6.Write at least one "love note" from God every night.
Started good. Ended not-so-good.
7. Get our food storage and 72 hour kids up to par.
ACCOMPLISHED. I feel pretty good about this goal. Not perfect, but we worked to get everything more up-to-date.
8. Appreciate my loved ones more.
Definitely need to work on this.
9. On the computer no more than 1 hr a day (except newsletter/slideshow days)
Better - not good.
10. Keep Word of Wisdom: Bed by 10:30pm, eat fruits and veggies and each meal and for snacks, exercise 4x a week.
Really crappy for the past couple months. Definitely need to start over in 2010.

"C" GOALS (work on these, but not at the expense of A or B)
1. Stop being so sarcastic.
Not so good.
2. Meal plan for each week.
Better overall for the year. Bad the past couple months.
4. Bear my testimony 6 times.
Probably only 3 times.
5. Plant a garden.
Nope.
6. Put up a picture of the temple, the prophet and Jesus in our rooms.
ACCOPMLISHED!
7. Keep up with the FLY lady - keep our home ready for visitors and keep the routine
Better this year overall - definitely better at keeping dishes out of the sink & keeping up on laundry. Now I need to work more on clutter & deep cleaning.
8. Make Birthday Books for the girls
ACCOMPLISHED!
9. Transfer all camcorder tapes to DVD
Started, but not finished.
10. Date night w/ sweetie 3x a month
We did better overall this year, but the past 3 or 4 months have not been good. We need to pick back up on this when Kezia is 3 months.

FAMILY GOALS:
1. FHE once a week
Better this year. Not perfect.
2. Scriptures/conference/inspirational songs during breakfast
Real improvement this year. Not perfect, but WAY BETTER.
3. Stay out of debt
ACCOMPLISHED - thankfully...
4. Move to a small town
Not yet.
5. Be on time to church every week.
We have been SO MUCH better with this goal this year!

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Arctic Circle will have to wait!

Leah just reminded me that I am turning 54 and not 55!!

When I was turning 29 I thougtht of the big 3 0 just around the corner and decided that if I could accept it a year ahead of time it wouldn't be so tramatic!

It worked! I rejoiced at 30.

I guess I automatically did the same thing this year with 55 just around the corner! It's a good thing I have Dan and Leah to help remind me of where I am in this journey of life. :)

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Wow

Golly, what do you know! I actually figured it out!! Will miracles ever cease?? NO!!!

OOPS!!

Tiffany just brought to my attention a minor correction:

I am NOW (not not) part of three seperate speaking teams!!
:0 Thanks Tiff

p.s I would have corrected the post but I couldn't figure out how... yet another frontier for me to forge in my young age!!

Almost 55 and going strong!!







Margaret Millon- A Speaking Partner

Nov. 15th 2009

Almost 55 and going strong!!


Yesterday I stopped to get a taco at Arctic Circle. There sat a sign about getting 15% when a person is 55+ years. “Yipee!” I thought “only a few more days to go and I get 15% off!!

It is easy to rejoice at my new life-mark when I am feeling healthy, wealthy and… well not always to wise but I try to be.

I am reflecting on where I’ve been and where I am headed and I feel so thankful. So many of my wishes have “come true.” I had hoped to be a wife, mother, writer, speaker and singer… and here I am with:


* Strength and mostly pain free
* We just paid off our 2nd mortgage (Glory hallelujah!!!!) One more to go…
* A wonderful, handsome, supportive, romantic husband (yes ladies, he can be romantic!),
* 6 (Josie included) loving children, 12 grandchildren and one on the way
* Two books written and a number of articles
* I am now part of 3 seperate teams of speakers. They all have amazing, supportive, inspirational, motivated members
* I now have 18 guitar students that I love and learn from each week and I am able to sing at various places (including my ward choir)…

In addition to all of this I have a testimony of my brother Jesus Christ. I have the wealthy and wisdom of friends and family. What more could I ask for?

55 years?? Bring it on!!!

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Just checking in...

Hey gals!

So I know everyone is pretty busy, especially considering the holidays coming up. However, I would encourage y'all to post at least one last time before the end of the year. We can go back to our original goals and either feel pretty crappy we didn't accomplish much, or feel great about what we did! Ha, ha... I think I fall into the prior category but I'll see if I can put some kind of positive spin on it. :)

Well, I feel overwhelmed with how disorganized my life and home are right now. I know that sounds silly since I have no children to take care of and have flexibility with my job. It's just my house is pretty freakin messy and I'm not sure where to begin. Even if I begin, there's the small issue with my hubby (bless his heart) acting like Hansel and Gretel and leaving a trail wherever he goes. Then there's the thing with not knowing where we'll be in 6 months when he graduates. Also, we're trying to short sale our home. Those are the major stresses in my life. I'm sitting here trying to find a place to begin. I suppose the thing I have most control over is my home but where to start...? Well, I'll hop off my soap box. Here are my goals through the end of November.

1. Spirituality: Pray nightly on knees.
2. Home Cleanliness/ Organization: Focus this week on laundry, kitchen counters, and bedroom organization.
3. Prospect Improvement: By November 30th, send out letters to all former Centex buyers.

Going back to my first goal, I was thinking of a song I listened to recently. Check it out if you get a chance. It's by Lee Brice and called Love Like Crazy. http://musicremedy.com/audio/index.cfm?fuseaction=showaudioplayer&audioId=37693&quality=6.

I love you all!

Tiff

Post- Baby!

Kezia is finally here! Hooray!
For the most part, it has been great. I still think I'm getting more sleep now than I did in the last couple months of my pregnancy. It has been hard with the girls lately, though. See my 4am post for details.
So - this week, I have a few, simple goals that hopefully will keep my girls (and therefore myself) more sane and happy:

1. I'm going to try to wake up by 8am every day. It's going to be hard considering she's still waking up 3 times a night, but I will take comfort that I am planning on getting a nap in the afternoon. We need to get back into that routine.
2. I want to try and have scripture study, character quality, and prayers every morning and eat breakfast as a family.
3. I want to get my morning things done at least 4 days this week. This includes emptying the dishwasher, doing 1 full load of laundry (washing, folding, putting away), kitchen & living room straightened, and helping McKinley & Ireland get their morning things done (bowl in dw, clean room, dressed, teeth & hair brushed, dogs fed & learning time).
4. I want to have personal study at least 4 times this week.
5. more fruits & veggies.
6. Get out for at least a 5 minute walk with the girls.
7. Get to bed by 10pm.

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Heidi's updates

Hi everyone! How are you?
I am hanging in there. A month left (please pray for me that it's not longer than a month!)...
I am looking forward to cooler weather.
I am looking forward to General Conference.
I am looking forward to my bow shower!
I am looking forward to THIS BABY!!

Here are some updates from me:

Good stuff:
-I still feel pretty good about my media choices. I hardly ever watch TV. I'm more into reading inspirational stuff. I try to listen to uplifting music and watch good movies.
-I still feel good about exercising. I worked out 4 times last week, and at least 3 times the past couple weeks before that. The only real bummer is that it seems like my carpal tunnel stuff gets WORSE, not better when I exercise. It does help me so much emotionally, though. I DO think if I was better at doing yoga, that would help, so I'm going to try harder to do more yoga next week.
-Birthday Books. All I really need to do is put in the last month & finish McKinley's slideshow DVD, but both of them are pretty much done.
-Appreciate my loved ones more. Specifically Jason. I started the "Love Dare" a couple weeks ago. It HAS NOT been easy - and I have a long way to go - but I have learned a lot about true, Christlike, unconditional love, and I've been able to show that to Jason in various ways these past couple weeks & it has definitely strengthened our marriage.
-I did go to the temple a couple weeks ago w/ the sisters, which was great! Jason & I need to really go at least one more time before the baby comes, though.
-I've been pretty good about getting to bed on time lately. It's hard hard when I'm so exhausted all the time.

FOCUS ON:
-Making a list of things I should be doing every day and projects to keep me healthy and happy until this baby comes.
-Making sure I wake up when the Spirit first tuggs at me to get up and seek the Lord.
-Meal Planning. Need to do better.
-Transferring VHS to DVD. I need to make this one of my "to-do" projects before the baby comes.
-Date night & temple w/ my sweetie.
-Taking better care of my skin and nails.
-Being a better listener to my girls and my hubby.

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

First Graders share their hopes and dreams

Cindy will soon be in this arena!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JW1y0VHuGcQ

Sunday, September 6, 2009

Hey Everybody!

I changed the background. Let me know what you think!
Yes, September is here. Kind of crazy. Kind of cool. At least I hope it cools down soon!
Just want to let you all know that I love reading your entries. And those of you who feel it's just been too long, IT'S NEVER TOO LATE! you can just get on here & say hi if you want. We love you.

Here's my updates from the past couple weeks:

GOOD STUFF!
1. I've been so excited to post that I exercised 5 times last week! Hooray! I think I was just setting the bar too low, so this week I'm shooting for 5 times again. And that can range from just 20 minutes to an hour, but EVERY day.
2. Been better at waking up by 7am & getting at least a 1/2 hour of personal study in. I am SO BLESSED when I do this. The main thing that I struggle with is even though my glass "overfloweth" by the time I'm done & I feel ready to start the day, all it takes is one tantrum or mess or attitude from one of my girls & my cup feels empty again. I need to take the time to keep refilling it through prayer & repentance.
3. Been good about media! I read a fantastic book - Yearning for the Living God. so good! Inspires me to not take this gospel for granted, sacrifice more, and be closer ot the spirit so I can recognize & obey promptings so that I can see more miracles in my life! I also put 6 Christian books/DVDs on hold at the library & am excited to read them!
4. Serving - was able to serve a lady in our ward who's on bedrest - pregnant w/ twins. Was thankful for that opportunity!
5. Memory Stuff. I am basically caught up with backing up the memory stuff from this year (besides the camcorder). I still have back-log to do, but I'm really starting to feel more organized with memory stuff. I also pretty much have McKinley's birthday book done & that will be a HUGE relief to get that done & be able to do better maintenance for the next year with their books.
6. Scriptures/character qualities in the morning before breakfast. It's been nice to gather as a family, read scriptures from our special Book of Mormon, and talk about a character quality for that week.
7. We've been on time to church the past couple weeks!

STUFF I NEED TO FOCUS ON:
1. Serving more CHEERFULLY - especially my family. My husband & children deserve a happy, upbeat mom! What kind of message am I sending if I am constantly exhausted and frustrated? I want to have a servant's heart & LOVE to serve!
2. Temple. We had plans for last month, but they fell through. We did go as girls, though, so that was nice, but we NEED to go as a couple this month.
3. Journal. Would like to get back in the habit of every day or every other day.
4. Love Notes! I've been really bad with writing them down on a daily basis, even though I did document a few really neat blessings we've seen recently.
5. Eating. Though my exercising has been SO MUCH better, my eating seems like it's been worse. For myself & my baby, I need to focus on getting more nutrients in me.
6. Meal plan. The past week or 2 has not been good. I need to get back on track.
7. FlyLady. I've been better with keeping my house straightened (especially since the gunny bag fairy started coming around), but the CLEANING (dusting, washing walls, etc) has really slacked. I'm planning on doing some catch-up tomorrow, but I need to do it EVERY week! Then it can really just be an hour, instead of feeling like it's an all-morning task.

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Hey y'all!

Hey everybody,

Looks like we're all slackers except for Mom and Heidi for the most part. :D

Anyways, I hope everyone is prouder of themselves for their progress this year than I am of mine. :) Even though I say that, I really think this blog has helped keep the goals at the forefront of my mind more than any other year. Thanks ladies!

Well, I have a ton I can improve on but here's what I want to focus on:

1. Daily prayers
2. Making a schedule for the day and sticking to it!
3. Eating healthier
4. Some kind of "hour of power" with 20 minutes each of motivation, exercise, and relaxation (http://ezinearticles.com/?Daily-Hour-of-Power&id=2440295)

So there's my quick check in.

Love you all and miss you!

Tiff

September is almost here!


Hello All,
It's hard to believe that it will soon be time to choose 2010 goals!

As for my progress:

The plus stuff:
I took Trisha and McKinley out to choose birthday gifts. Fun.

I am still doing very good at "no sugar" (although I do fudge on drinks and if sugar is in bread or something.) I just wish I had lost weight or been free of headaches.

I am thankful to report that I have 1 or 2 speaking engagements for the next few months and I've combined with others in my efforts.

Trisha gave me a photo shoot! So fun!

I am learning songs for care center programs

The tough stuff:
I still struggle with co-dependent issues. I still seem to want to solve the world's problems.

My books are not selling very well. sad.

Body challenges like TMJ, headaches etc. I see a physical therapist this week who specializes in TMJ.


-- I just wanted to check in.
Love,
mom/friend/etc.

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Heidi - weak 33

Oh... was that supposed to be WEEK 33? My bad (not really).
I try, but I sometimes feel like I just can't break free from the fatigue & lack of motivation some days. I am grateful, though, for the blessings I do have. I need to not complain and to cherish all I have.
With that said, here's some updates:

PROGRESS:
-Media. I have tried harder to listen to and watch inspirational media. We had oodles of other stuff to watch last night, but we watched the Christian movie "Facing the Giants." wow. It was REALLY good! I went to bed feeling hopeful about Jason's job situation, loved by my Savior, and peaceful. I could have watched a different movie and went to bed with COMPLETELY different emotions. There is SO MUCH good media out there! I love to find it!
-Journal. I have been doing SO MUCH better with this & I totally notice a difference. I used to write every day when I was younger, so every couple days has helped me to analyze my feelings better and just clean out the emotions that clog up my life.
-Food Storage. We organized it & I'm starting to use it more. Slowly, granted, but still using it.
-Birthday Books. I sent McKinley's 12x12 pages last week to be printed. I'm going to send the 4x6 soon as well. I think I'll be able to have it ready by her birthday. I hope it turns out cute! I have put a lot of time into it!
-Date nights. June & July we hardly ever went out, but thanks to mom, we have gone out a couple times this month & it's been really nice. We both get stressed with Jason's job situation, so it's nice to go out & try to just enjoy each other, focus on each other, and focus on our blessings.
-Budget. This isn't on my goals list, but I have to write it down because it's something I personally have been working hard on. We went to a cash budget & I'll admit it's been difficult at times not wanting to pick this or that up or have a little indulgence, but we have been blessed & I was almost right on last month with our budget - even with our camping vacation! So - I hope to do the same for this month - especially in entertainment & groceries.

NEEDS PROGRESS:
-Serve others more cheerfully. I need to be more thoughtful about others & put myself in their shoes and serve and truly love more.
-Love note from God. I don't know why I have been slacking in this. It's not like God has slacked on giving me blessings & miracles. I need to WRITE THEM DOWN!
-On the computer no more than an hour a day. I have been better in the mornings. I don't look at it till I get my morning things done. It's the afternoon when I just don't have a good enough plan or something & find myself wasting precious time. Lord, help me to do better!
-Word of Wisdom. I need to get to bed by 10:30pm so I can get up by 6:30 or 7am. I need to EXERCISE MORE! I need to stop eating so much junk & start choosing better foods.
-FlyLady. My house is not really a pretty sight right now. I have a lot of work to do tomorrow to catch up. I am pretty good about the laundry, but it's the clutter (especially in the basement - and that seems to migrate into the upstairs) that gets me down. I need to do better about constantly picking up and having the girls pick up stuff, too. I'm thinking about instituting the "gunny bag." We'll see.

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Return and Resport

Hello Ya All!
As to my goals-- I have created planner pages with them and I try to check off my progress before I write in my mini journal (my small journal with main events through the day. Example: - Joseph called. He got hurt when he tried to get keys from the roof... Family for dinner. 22 people. FHE by Mom & Trisha...)

Anyway, my goals are as follows:
Drinking water - needs improvement
Keeping pressure activities to 3-34 per week - doing good
Exercise 4 times per week - good
physical thereapy - 5=good
Loving moments with family - mostly good
No Sugar - excellent
serving someone everyday - good mostly
deep breathing - mostly good

Sunday, August 2, 2009

Goals...

Yikes! Been over a month now. Sorry! July was pretty much non-stop crazy-busy. Apparently that was the case for everyone, since we didn't have one July post ! August does have quite a few things going on as well for us, but hopefully by Sept, I will be regular on this blog again. How is everyone else doing? Would love to hear from ya!
Here's my complete update:

TOP 5 GOALS FOR 2009:
1. To be able to see myself and others as Jesus sees us.
I am still working on this, but I've kind of shifted to more of a goal to put my Savior first in my life (that means in my day as well - get up early), and that in turn helps me to see others and myself as Jesus sees us.
2. To serve others more often and more cheerfully.
I think I am progressing, but still have a long way to go. I still have a bad attitude about helping sometimes, and even though it feels justified, I know it's not Christlike. I need to really try harder at putting myself in others' shoes and trying to see things from their perspective.
3. STOP attacking my face, arms, and legs by popping zits.
I think I've been better overall - especially when I am better about waking up early for my personal study. I think I still need a change of heart, though, where I take care of my skin and body because I LOVE IT and I want to cherish it, not because it's a duty or a chore.
4. Media: Avoid media with swearing, sex, or violence.
We watched Terminator yesterday. When I think back to it, it doesn't seem that BAD, but when did I stop FOCUSING on bringing inspiration instead of just avoiding the bad? So...I need to do better. Period.

"B" GOALS (important, but not top 5):
1. Prayerfully attend the temple no less than 10 times.
We went last week and did initiatory. It was really great.
2. Stay out of debt and Pay tithing and generous fast offering every month.
We have been current on this.
3. Write in my journal once a week (doesn't include blogging)
I wasn't so great in July, but in the past week or so I've written like 3 times. I miss writing every night. I sure am able to capture more of my thoughts and feelings and analyze when I get into ruts or frustrations.
4. 1 anniversary vacation, 3 family vacations (includes camping), 1 "lovers get-away", and 1 "girls only" getaway!
DONE: Anniversary, girls only, and 1 camping family vacation
5.When fasting, start the night before (5pm Sat-5pm Sun)
I tried harder today to really make this day more meaningful. Even though I can't fast, I can choose "less appealing" food - making other kinds of sacrifices. Trying harder to focus on my Savior.
6.Write at least one "love note" from God every night.
I have TRULY seen love notes from God this week - I think I captured most of them - from protecting my children to protecting my grandma, to protecting our home.
7. Get our food storage and 72 hour kids up to par.
We even organized it 2 weekends ago. It looks so much better & I hope to use it more!
8. Appreciate my loved ones more.
Last night I really took the time to realize how much I love my children. I need to show my appreciation for them more.
9. On the computer no more than 1 hr a day (except newsletter/slideshow days)
I have decided that I cannot access the internet at all until my morning things are done, including laundry, cleaning, and helping McKinley with her morning things. That's usually around 10:30 or 11. Then I can check it oncce. Then, I should be able to check it again in the afternoon.
10. Keep Word of Wisdom: Bed by 10:30pm, eat fruits and veggies and each meal and for snacks, exercise 4x a week.
Bed:Not great, but definitely trying harder, so I can get up earlier.
Eating: It's been sporatic. I have tried to eat more fruits and veggies, but we've been on such a tight budget. I still need to try harder, though, and just generally eat less.
Exercise: I have been walking more at night with my neighbors, which has been nice, and I have also done more prenatal yoga, but I need do more calorie-burning exercises!

"C" GOALS (work on these, but not at the expense of A or B)
1. Stop being so sarcastic.
Again, when I truly am in tune with the spirit, I'm not sarcastic, so I need to focus on that.
2. Meal plan for each week.
The past 2 weeks, I have had $50 to spend on groceries each week. That doesn't give way for tons of meal plannning, but it's a NEW MONTH and I hope to plan some great, healthy, inexpensive meals. If anyone has suggestions, send them my way!
4. Bear my testimony 6 times.
I did in july...
5. Plant a garden.
Looks like it's not going to happen this year.
6. Put up a picture of the temple, the prophet and Jesus in our rooms.
DONE, DONE, DONE.
7. Keep up with the FLY lady - keep our home ready for visitors and keep the routine
Jason is helping more, so that helps me. I just need to do more of the deep cleaning now.
8. Make Birthday Books for the girls
Ireland's is all done except for June. I REALLY need to work on McKinley's this week. I have March-July that I need to do! Aaaah! I need to send the pics to the printer this week!
9. Transfer all camcorder tapes to DVD
I am lost on this now, but I need to help mom this week & would like to start getting caught up.
10. Date night w/ sweetie 3x a month
We did go out to dinner & a movie last night, which was SO nice because we haven't been in like 2 months!

FAMILY GOALS:
1. FHE once a week
Yes, McKinley was in charge & wanted to talk about rainbows, so we talked about all the blessings we've been given, and that God gave us rainbows to remind us that He won't ever flood the earth again.
2. Scriptures/conference/inspirational songs during breakfast
We've actually been reading out of our special big Book of Mormon before we go to the table & then listening to inspirational music while we eat. It's been good.
3. Stay out of debt
Yes - It seems hard sometimes to stay that way, but we sure have been blessed and I am more convinced than ever that it is God's will that we stay out of debt.
4. Move to a small town
Sigh... praying and focusing on a miracle that we will get there. It might not be this year, though.
5. Be on time to church every week.
The past few weeks have been really good getting there on time. We were almost 15 minutes early today!

Sunday, June 28, 2009

BUSY!

I'm so thrilled to see a bit more activity on here! This is going to be a really busy next month or so, so I really need to focus. As far as me & my progress, I still have a long way to go, but here is where I'm at:

Progress:
-Feeling closer to my Savior. I am really trying to literally apply the scriptures that talk about "seek ye early & ye shall find me" & so I've been waking up between 6:30-7am & I have literally seen that scripture fulfilled. I have found Him. My days when I have taken time with Him in the mornings have gone SO much smoother, regardless of the struggles of that day. I intend to keep on with this & it goes with seeing myself & others as my Savior sees us.
-Media - Again, I feel blessed to be able to have found some inspiration - I read "The Inheritance" by Louisa May Alcott last week. It her first novel that she wrote at 17. Then, on Friday night we watched "The Ultimate Gift" - good DVD!
-FlyLady/House cleaned - I worked REALLY hard last week in deep cleaning my house. It was like a belated spring cleaning. I'm talking scrubbing the cabinets, the chairs, the table, and I spent 2 hours on my hands & knees scrubbing my tile & grout, not to mention cleaning my walls, blinds, etc. It was exhausting, but so nice by Friday when it was ALL CLEAN! Now, I need to focus on maintaining it!
-Temple. We went a couple weeks ago & did endowments & then yesterday we went to the Oquirrh Mountain open house. Also, Jason's been volunteering there. It's been such a blessing to be so involved in the temple!
-Love Notes from God. I have made progress - for sure. Yesterday I saw the most beautiful rainbow I've EVER seen. Gorgeous! It was like Heavenly Father was sending so much love my way!
-We made progress in watching the Financial Freedom Seminar DVDs. We usually watch one a week & we watched 3 last week. They are soooo good!

FOCUS ON:
-Getting Ireland's birthday book done! Print out newsletters & do her DVD. Also, get everything ready to bring for her birthday party.
-Eating right & exercising! At this rate, I will have gained 80 lbs with this pregnancy! I need to do better!
-Serving others more often & cheerfully!
-My face
-I need to write in my journal this week - and to my baby.
-Appreciate my loved ones more. Love notes & service for my hubby. Time truly playing w/ my girls.
-Getting to bed on time! I've gotten to bed by midnight most nights this week. YUCK!
-Sarcasm. Jason asked me today to do better with this, so I guess I need to work on this some more.
-I need to work on our date nights. We've been so busy & it's not going to change, but maybe on a weeknight?

THANKS EVERYONE!

Saturday, June 27, 2009

It's good to see everyone (Becka)

Hey, I want you all to know I love reading all your posts. I still read often even though I haven't posted in a long time.

My goal this year was to home school my kids and which I've done. That is mostly why I haven't posted, not the best excuse but it's my only one. I love home schooling, it has been so much fun. We are continuing during the summer because well, 1) I'm mean and 2) because I hate the idea of summer break. It makes school into the bad guy and doing nothing into the good guy. We do take breaks but they are throughout the year.

My house is still in chaos. If I thought it would get better once I started home schooling I must have been crazy. (I didn't, don't worry) My older two kids are visiting there grandparents in Utah for a couple of weeks and I'm looking forward to getting some stuff done. I've made a list of things I'd like to get done while there gone and I'm hoping to get most of them done. I'll let you know how that goes.

Lastly our finances are, well, they could be better. I need to get a tighter hold on them. Dave is leaving for Poland in a couple of weeks and so much of our money is going to it, it's making me sick. One of the things I really want to do is organize our files this week. I'm hoping that will help to see more of where are money is going and how we could save more of it.

Well, I'm hoping everyone is well. It's great to see all of you doing so well and keeping going. I'm going to try much harder to keep up. I really have no excuse. My kids are bigger, I have a husband who helps when he's home, I don't have to work and I'm not pregnant :) . I need to be more greatful for what I have. I'll write again soon.

Becka

Monday, June 22, 2009

Aloha Seniorita's...!

Sometimes I like to pretend I'm Spanish and Hawaiian all at the same time. It's a fun game. You should try it sometime.... :)

So I know it's been centuries since I've posted, sorry.

I now feel like I have things to post about. I feel super grateful for the blessing in disguise of being let go from Centex. It's allowed me to go outside my comfort zone and start learning the resale side of real estate.

I accepted a position with a real estate team that provides leads. It's a lower commission split but that's okay. My real purpose in accepting a position was to learn all I can about resale, foreclosures, short sales, etc. to take the knowledge with me wherever our journey takes us.

Anywho, it's been a great week and a half. I've already been given about five leads. Below are some of my new goals focused on my career. I'll work on revising my personal goals over the next week and report back.

Here's your thought for the week: "Perseverance is the secret of success. Procrastination is the secret of failure." Milton Levine

Career Goals:
Sharpen the saw:
1. Read real estate updates 3x a week on Mon., Wed., and Fri.
2. Read educational material 20+ minutes week days.
3. Update own website one time a week.
4. Take two real estate classes a month.
Communication:
1. Respond to prospects within 3 hours of calling.

Love you ladies!

Tiff

Sunday, June 21, 2009

My cup ran over!

Hi Guys,
O.K. I'll be honest. I am a bit discouraged. Heidi helped me earlier when I told her I went to the doctor and weighed in at 141.7 lbs. It has been 3 month since I stopped sugar (with the exception of a tiny bit of jam or a recipie like a pancake that has a little in it.)

I never ever wanted to go past 139 lbs. Sigh... so... now I am looking at my other eating. I realize that I often overeat on other stuff (bread, mashed potatoes etc.)I guess I will get out the old measuring cup and allow myself only one cup of starchy, bready things... I haven't decided for sure. Just experimenting. I continue to exercise about 4 times per week. hmmm...I could step it up but...hmmm. Any ideas?

Hey, happy fathers day to all of you. You may not be the father but you are great supports to us.
Love,
me

Monday, June 15, 2009

The Power to Change

I read this great article last week "The Power to Change" by James E. Faust. Here are some of my favorite quotes that I think directly relate to this blog and our desire to better ourselves:

"Each new day that dawns can be a new day for us to begin to change. We can change our environment. We can change our lives by substituting new habits for old. We can mold our character and future by purer thoughts and nobler actions. As someone once put it, 'The possibility of change is always there, with its hidden promise of peace, happiness, and a better way of life.'"

“My grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them” (Ether 12:27). Let us remember that the power to change is very real, and it is a great spiritual gift from God. "

So, with the optimism that I can change, that even though I have fallen short of many of my goals, it's not too late! Here are my updates:

PROGRESS!
-Scrapbooking: I was able to finish Ireland's birthday book up to the end of May & send everything to be printed. Yay! Now I have to focus on McKinley's book.
-FlyLady Routines: I've been more consistent with my morning & before-bed routine & it's helped me to keep my house clean!
-Temple. Jason & I were able to go to the temple on Thursday. It was really wonderful!
-Seeing as Jesus sees: I have dedicated more quantity and quality time this week to scripture reading, prayer, and study. I have felt closer to my Savior & it's been easier to see myself & others as He sees.
-Service: The other bonus to feeling closer to my Savior is feeling more cheerful about serving. I was able to watch Robyn's kids for a few hours last week on her birthday & it felt so good to serve!
-Media: Again, I feel like I've tried to seek inspirational media -not just avoid the bad stuff. I re-created my inspirational playlist & I love listening to it & being inspired.
-wrote in my journal!
-Had a date night @ the temple w/ my sweetie this week.

WORK ON:
-Taking better care of this earthly temple. This week, I hope to not pop my zits, to focus on caring for my face & healing it.
-Love notes from God: I bought a special notebook just for this reason to do better, so here's to doing better!
-Exercising: for some reason, I haven't been able to get in more than twice a week! I'd like to do so much more this week. Like, EVERY DAY - at least a little bit. I'd like to do some yoga, too. My back has been hurting more.
-Need to do better with my meal planning this week. I did fix a really good chicken tortilla soup yesterday though!
-Taking even more time this week to get closer to my Lord, to be in the right spirit, to find joy in everything I do, to learn the lessons He would have me learn.
-Showing my loved ones how much I care for them.

Saturday, June 13, 2009

June progress

Hi ya all,
Thanks for your example and inspriation Heidi.
Here goes...

I have 8 things on my list. I try to check it off each night before bed. I do it about 4-5 times a week.

- Keeping my stress down: I now use outlook for my calendar and "color" my committments. The pink ones mean that it would be a pressure-item. I try to make sure there are not more than 4 pink. Otherwise I reschedule for another week.
- Exercising 4 times a week
- Physical Therapy 5 times
- Loving family moments - 4 times
- Helped with grandkids - 4 times
- no sugar- great (but I do allow myself a bit of jam or yogurt)
- serving someone - I feel good
- Putting in 8 hours of home management - yea! I did it this week. Heidi helped with the budget gosl too! Thanks.
-Thanks to Cindy for helping me with our yard (it looks beautiful)
-Thanks to Tiff for her calls to keep me informed and her love through the phone
-Thanks to Trisha for her enthusiasm with her new business adventure.

I just need to keep working on all of the above.
Love to you all,
mom/sis

Sunday, June 7, 2009

Week 23 Update for Heidi

First of all - I miss everyone! I know we're all busy, but let's not give up! I think the minute we stop working toward goals is the minute we let life take over instead of feeling like we have a plan and are doing the best we can.
Overall, I feel like I'm progressing- and that's what it's all about, right?
Here's how I feel like I'm doing & where I'm at for the past week:

Did well last week:
-Flylady. My morning & night routines are getting better & in turn, my house is generally cleaner on the whole, which I am thankful for. I did my home blessing hour and I hope to do some organizing in the coming weeks.
-Jason & I sat down & wrote our temple schedule for the summer & sent it to our neighbors that we switch with. Now we just have to make sure we go!! We are also excited to go to the open house this month for Jason's birthday. Also, we made our summer activity list & have already done a lot!
-Media: I read 2 great books last week - The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis and At the Water's Edge, by Annete Lyon. Both good, inspirational books. The Great Divorce is, wow. Deep.
-At the beginning of the week, I did really good for exercising & even did some jogging & strength exercises. So 2 good days of exercising.
-At the beginning of the week, I did really good with reading my scriptures every day. I think I was about 5 for 7 on this one.
-I have been overall better about taking care of my face & I think I'm 5 for 7 with washing it at least once a day, but I need to do better about doing alternate activities when I feel like popping.
-Making meals. I feel really good for the past few weeks about my meal planning and healthy meal preparation.
-We were on time to church!
-I bore my testimony in church today and it felt really good & I was thankful to be able to do it.

What I want to focus on this week:
-Be consistent EVERY day with praying, reading and pondering the scriptures. If I want to make the relationship with Him the MOST important thing in my life, I need to take the time to put Him first.
-Serving others. Not out of duty. Not out of wanting "brownie points" in heaven. Because I love God and He loves me and I want to let His love for me extend to every other person around me. I want to love & serve others to show my love for Him.
-I have been so much better about eating more fruits & veggies, but at the same time, I have also given in way too much to sugar cravings - LOTS of candy. So, this week my plan is to work on substituting sugary sweet stuff with fruit and drinking more water.
-Get Ireland's birthday book all organized & ready to print up to the date. Get September done for McKinley.
-Being a better mom. Listening more. Cuddling more. Teaching more.
-Getting the hall bathroom drawers organized with bows & everything.

Sunday, May 31, 2009

Simplify simplify, simplify

As I continue to move into summer I am amazed at how many things we have planned. When I realized that we have plans every weekend until September I realized I needed to simplify each week and make sure that I didn't have more than 2 big demands besides my 2 working days-- otherwise I would really be negligent on my personal and homemaking goals.

Therefore, here are my re-revived goals:
- Try to keep my big activities to two per week (including my working days)
- Exercise 4 times per week
- physical therapy at home 5-7 times a week
- Loving moments with my family 4 times per week
- Help with the grandkids 3-5 times per week
- continue no sugar program (it will be 3 months on June 6th). I do sometimes have a little jam and if I get a headache I will take pepsi
- serving someone everyday

so there you have it. My simplified version!

Getting back on the wagon...

...or at least trying! I have been waking up earlier lately, having more energy and generally feeling better. I have been thinking about my goals more lately and trying harder, but I still have a long way to go. We're approaching the halfway mark for the year, and some things I'm feeling pretty good about while others I want to give up on (but won't). As the summer approaches, I think I need a re-vamping of my schedule and the girls' schedules & I hope to work on that today.

Here's a few things I feel good about for the last couple weeks:
-Scrapbooking. I'm caught up with Ireland's scrapbook up to the end of March (which is good because her birthday is only a month away!).
-Service. Still not where I want to be, but I've had the opportunity to take a meal to a sister, watch Robyn's kids, and help my family, too. I love the feeling I get when I can help others. Sometimes I need to work on being REALLY happy about it, but I hope to get there.
-Vacations. I have successfully checked off our girls' getaway, our anniversary vacation, and we have family vacations coming up!
-Food Storage. We went to Walmart a couple weeks ago & spent about $500 stocking up on more food. The only thing I think we're really missing is a wheat grinder.
-Eating better. This past week, I bought I bunch of veggies, cut them up, and put them in our veggie tray in the fridge. We've all been eating more veggies this week & it's great! Also, we have been LOVING the summer fruit - lots of cantelope, watermelon & honeydew. Mmmmm.
-Pictures of Jesus, the temple & the prophet in all our rooms. DONE! Hooray!

Things I'm going to focus on this week:
-Exercising. I need to get back into a routine. I need a time (plan A & plan B) of when I'm going to go & then GO. Even if it's only a little while. I'd also like to do a bit of strength training in. I'm starting to feel flabby. My goal this week is to exercise 4 times. No excuses!
-Coming up with our summer temple (and activity) schedule. The Warrens have sent me their times for the temple, so I need to do the same & get it set up so that we're good to go!
- Taking better care of my face. Wash it once a day & exercise, read or call someone if I feel the urge to attack my face.
-Love notes. I have slacked on this big time & I have seen so many blessings lately, I need to write them down.
-Media. I haven't made the best, most inspirational movie choices lately & I am going to focus on really inspirational things this week to bring me closer to my Savior.
-On the computer no more than an hour a day!

Sunday, May 3, 2009

Week whatever...

Well, I'm 15 weeks along & my enery and general wellness is s l o w l y coming back. I really want to focus on taking care of myself, my home, and my family this week. It sounds selfish, but especially myself. I haven't been fixing my hair, exercising, washing my face or reading my scriptures much in the past couple months, so I really want to work on taking care of this earthly temple.
Last night Jason & I watched "Supersize Me" (we got it from the library). boy, if you ever want some motivation to start eating better, exercising & taking care of yourself, watch this movie. It is a good motivator for me this week.
So - here's where I'm at & where I'm going:

TOP 5 GOALS FOR 2009:
1. To be able to see myself and others as Jesus sees us.
Again, I need to re-focus on this in my prayers & when I look in the mirror. I need to try and see my family's great qualities instead of focusing on the negative.
2. To serve others more often and more cheerfully.
In the temple last week, I walked away determined to be a better help-meet to my husband. He deserves it. I want to help him more with finding a job, with working out, with scripture study and just to provide a loving, clean environment for him.
3. STOP attacking my face, arms, and legs by popping zits.
NO leaning over the counter this week. None. Zero. Zip. Zilch.
4. Media: Avoid media with swearing, sex, or violence.
This has not been a good goal. On our anniversary weekend, we rented a couple movies from Redbox & one needed fast-forwarding. The other we should have just turned off. I need to re-direct my media goals and get them to an inspirational focus - one that will bring me closer to my Savior.

"B" GOALS (important, but not top 5):
1. Prayerfully attend the temple no less than 10 times.
We went last week for our anniversary vacation & it was w o n d e r f u l. I can't wait to go to the new Draper Temple & Oqurre Mountain temple.
2. Stay out of debt and Pay tithing and generous fast offering every month.
I still need to pay tithing from what mom gave me.
3. Write in my journal once a week (doesn't include blogging)
I did write in my journal last week, but it had been almost a month! I need to do better for my sanity!
4. 1 anniversary vacation, 3 family vacations (includes camping), 1 "lovers get-away", and 1 "girls only" getaway!
anniversary vacation - check (wonderful!), girls only (check!) looks like we need to get going on our family vacays!
5.When fasting, start the night before (5pm Sat-5pm Sun)
I totally even forgot today was fast Sunday. I should have prepared, even though I can't fast, I can focus more.
6.Write at least one "love note" from God every night.
Doing better! I have SO MANY love notes from God every day!
7. Get our food storage and 72 hour kids up to par.
I am feeling good about it!
8. Appreciate my loved ones more.
Better - need to do so much better!
9. On the computer no more than 1 hr a day (except newsletter/slideshow days)
Ok - I'm ready to password-protect the laptop, so I can only use this computer downstairs. The laptop is too much of a temptation.
10. Keep Word of Wisdom: Bed by 10:30pm, eat fruits and veggies and each meal and for snacks, exercise 4x a week.
Bed:Good!
Eating: Bad! Especially for our vacation. After watching Supersize Me, I am going to eat BETTER!
Exercise: My goal this week is a modest 15 min for 3 times a week. Pathetic, right? But I WILL do it & I will move on from there!

"C" GOALS (work on these, but not at the expense of A or B)
1. Stop being so sarcastic.
Bad. I am truly sorry to anyone I was sarcastic to.
2. Meal plan for each week.
Not so good, but I already have my menus ready for next week, complete w/ a shopping list.
4. Bear my testimony 6 times.
Not this month...
5. Plant a garden.
I think we're getting close to that time, but I am having a hard time. Do we rip up the backyard & put so much time & effort into a garden when we may be moving? I need to pray more about this.
6. Put up a picture of the temple, the prophet and Jesus in our rooms.
ALMOST done! We did get pictures of Jesus, a temple and the first presidency in the girls rooms, but we need to put some up in our room.
7. Keep up with the FLY lady - keep our home ready for visitors and keep the routine
I have done better in the past weeks, but need to get the ROUTINE down!
8. Make Birthday Books for the girls
Gotten behind since I've been sick. Ireland's birthday is really only 2 months away! Ahhh!
9. Transfer all camcorder tapes to DVD
I am lost on this now, but I need to help mom this week & would like to start getting caught up.
10. Date night w/ sweetie 3x a month
Had our anniversary vacay!

FAMILY GOALS:
1. FHE once a week
Out of town this week...
2. Scriptures/conference/inspirational songs during breakfast
Better, but not great
3. Stay out of debt
The Financial DVDs have been great! We're learning so much about God's way with money vs. the world.
4. Move to a small town
Working on it.
5. Be on time to church every week.
Not today. It was ONE OF THOSE DAYS with getting to church period, but I at least felt good that I did some personal study before we left.

Patricia's Progress


May 3 – Happy May Everyone!

Can you believe it? We will soon be mid-year and Heidi will be mid preg.? Time flies.

I can definitely say that this has been the year I have paid the most attention to my progress. From Heidi’s website to Tiffany’s forms I am trying harder.

Progress:
• Eating - Day 56 being off sugar. I am definitely doing better physically and emotionally but sometimes I overeat on other things. You should have seen me at soup or Salad on Friday. I was eating 15 minutes longer than either Janette Wayman or Ev Cann!
• Exercising- is still at 3-4 times a week. I usually walk but I am trying to push it harder because of the pioneer trek coming up.
• Physical Therapy- I could definitely do better on this one. I found this morning when my neck and upper back was hurting that doing my physical therapy helps so I think I’ll do it more.
• Finances – Thanks Heidi for patiently teaching me how to use quicken better.
• Create loving memories- I love this goal because it helps me recognize and record magic moments that I otherwise would not have given a second thought to.
• Temple- I need to do better
• Memorizing positive songs- I have found that when I exercise and drive this works well
• My Books: My modified goal is to get 300 books out by October. We have given/sold about 200 so I just keep praying. Last week I was able to place about 15! If you have ideas or suggestions I’m open. Thanks goes to Heidi for my website and Cindy for getting a book placed at Primary Childrens Hospital
• Thanks Thinkin- I love to spread my arms heavenward and say THANK YOU
• Food Storage: Yea! We are pretty caught up till next general conference.
• Dates: Dan and I enjoyed 2, he also took Kalli out on her date to the mall/dairy queen- they played the funniest, strangest card!

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

The Climb - PLEASE WATCH!

Maybe most of you have heard/seen this song by Miley Cyrus. I heard it on someone's blog & LOVED it! I think it's so appropriate for this blog. It's not necessarily about how much we accomplish. Right now I don't feel like I'm accomplishing anything, but the message is DON'T GIVE UP! It's the journey, not the destination. Love you all!

Progress this morning

If I had children at home it would be harder, if I were pregnant it would be impossible, if I had to get to work I probably wouldn't get it done...but... just for today with the grace of God I was able to:

make Dan's lunch, start beans in the crockpot, fill 4 water bottles, cut up fruits and veggies for the day and clear the dishwasher!!!

Thanks Father!

Sunday, April 12, 2009

And the beat goes on...

Yes, it does. And I do, although I still feel for the most part like I'm in survival mode instead of thriving mode. I keep saying to myself - next week it will get better! And...no such luck. Cindy reminded me that for most people it really takes closer to 15 weeks. I'm at 12. Sigh...3 weeks seems like an eternity, but I was reminded at conference how we can feel blessed and happy no matter how we feel or what we are going through. SO- a goal I am going to work on this next week is just adjusting my attitude and trying to be more humble. I have worked on giving my health to my Savior and allowing Him to direct it and guide it and know that there's a reason in all things. When I remind myself of that, I am able to relax and let go- and even after puking, I can praise His name and be thankful for all things - especially the opportunity to be pregnant.
So - getting down to the basics here:
-Better attitude.
-I need to get to the temple in the next week or two.
-Scriptures EVERY day.
-More sincere prayers
-Show Jason more how much I appreciate & love him.

Love you all! Happy Easter!

Happy Easter- sorry the picts wouldn't post

Easter 2009 Hello Everyone! Sorry I haven’t written for a while. I’ve been a world travelor! Our 13 day trip was wonderful! Among the highlights was: Parasailing in the Caribbean in St. Johns Seeing Joseph graduate Spending the day with my friend, Adiaha in St. Martins (we got aquainted through my website and books. She is awesome!) I am writing up the whole vacation and putting it in pottspondering in case you want more detail

Before starting on my goals I want to stop and thank my Jesus. If it weren't for Him, his encouragement, his gift of repentance I wouldn't be able to do this blog. THANK YOU JESUS. HAPPY EASTER!

As far as goals go - I am happy to announce that I haven’t had sugar for 36 days now (except 1 lemonade and a caffine drink if I get headaches). I have found a reduction in negative moods, bad headaches and guilt trips. I seem to be able to think more clearly as well. I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone, however, unless they are truly convinced of the need for a change.

- My books continue to sell and get placed. It is still slow but it was fun when someone called as a result of finding a gifted book in a waiting room at the hospital. She wants to buy it. I keep praying that people will find it and that it will bring them light.

 I am also excited about progress in loving memories. I am working to put together a Potts Yearly Activities calendar including birthday dinners, monthly outings, monthly temple trips and semi-annual memory weekends and women’s conferences.  Dan has inspired me to step up my exercising. I have actually done a little very slow running. At this point it takes my 18 minutes to run a mile! Slow huh! You’d think I was just shuffling along! At least I’m trying!! I send you all my love. I don’t think I could do the sugar-free thing without your support and cheering. Thank you.

Monday, March 30, 2009

Is anyone out there???

Hello people,

What in the world would we do without Heidi leading us into our NY resolutions??? Thanks for keeping us accountable!

Life is good! Hmmm... where to start? I bought myself an iPod Touch for my birthday and it's AMAZING! I have several applications to assist me with my goals. For example, there's an actual goal tracker, money tracker, gratitude journal, journal, yoga exercises, personal trainer, scriptures, and SOOOO much more! I LOVE IT!

One of the applications I love most is the Gratitude Journal. I keep it with me throughout the day and jot down bullet points with things in my life I'm grateful for. I haven't been doing it for long but it's definitely already impacted me so instead of the glass is half empty or half full, I'm just dog gone grateful to have a cup!

I've also made slight progress with working out. I read Heidi's progress where she said she's at least walking 20 minutes. Well heck, I'm lucky if I make it 5 minutes! You set the bar pretty darn high Heidi!

Other than that, I need to improve but I will my whole life! I'm starting to be more okay with my progress than my lack of progress! In "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff" (my FAVORITE BOOK EVER) he says your "in basket" will never be empty so be happy with life as it is. Obviously it doesn't mean to stop setting goals, but it means life is good no matter what our progress is.

Anywho, that's about it for me. I love you gals!

P.S. y'all should check out Trisha's YouTube videos. They are AWESOME! Most of them have had at least 700 views. You rock Trish!

Love, Tiff

Sunday, March 29, 2009

Geez...this joint is dead

Where did everybody go? OK - I know where I went - which is nowhere. Just mostly here at home working on not being too miserable. But motivation-wise, I've taken a major vacation. I'm still not feeling completely human yet. I'll have 1 or 2 better days and then BAM! I just feel horrible for the entire day. But, hey, it's been almost 3 days now, so that's progress, right?
I guess what I'm trying to say is that I want to start back into my goals. To focus on them instead of just getting through the day. On my bad days, I will cut myself major slack. On my better days, I will not overdo it, but definitely work harder at it.
So, with that in mind, the next week these are things I really want to focus on:
1. Me & my family washing our hands (or using sanitizer) before we eat every meal (I know this isn't one of my original goals, but I'm so bad at it & I think it will help us with sickness.
2. Not leaning into ANY mirrors to get a closer look. Washing my face at least once a day.
3. Exercising (even if it's a 20 minute walk) 3 times.
4. Fix at least 3 dinners this week.
5. My house has pretty bad since I've been sick, but this week I'd like to try and stay on top on the laundry and get back in the routine of keeping the sick clean, running the dishwasher @ night, and cleaning the bathrooms in the morning.

And here's the long version... (LOVE YOU GUYS!)

TOP 5 GOALS FOR 2009:
1. To be able to see myself and others as Jesus sees us.
This goal has taken a major nose-dive. I haven't been praying for it (most of my prayers have revolved around trying to strengthen my back for the burden of being sick), but I need to start. It sure is a chore to see myself as Jesus sees me right now - I feel so fat, ugly, sick & BLAH. My attitude as been so negative and pessimistic. I need to pray for this and try to look in my eyes & see my potential - & see who my girls need me to be.
2. To serve others more often and more cheerfully.
So - I know the best way to get through a trial is to stop focusing on yourself and to serve others. I'm going to try harder to help my neighbor Robyn while she goes running by watching her boys. I'm also going to pray for a better attitude when the day starts that I can serve my family and meaningfully say "I'd be happy to!"
3. STOP attacking my face, arms, and legs by popping zits.
This is one of my major goals this week. NO leaning over the counter. Wash my face at least once a day.
4. Media: Avoid media with swearing, sex, or violence. Use my precious time to SEEK I have definitely regressed on this one. I read a book that wasn't necessarily bad, but I REALLY wouldn't call it inspirational. I also have watched a couple romantic comedies that portrayed sex before marriage and swore. NOT where I want to be heading. On the plus side, we're watching a financial seminar DVD series that is Christian and is really amazing. VERY faith-building.

"B" GOALS (important, but not top 5):
1. Prayerfully attend the temple no less than 10 times.
We were shooting for yesterday & it didn't happen. I should have called the Warrens. I need to plan better for this month.
2. Stay out of debt and Pay tithing and generous fast offering every month.
We are thankfully still out of debt. We'd be in a whole lot of trouble if we weren't. We did pay fast offering this month.
3. Write in my journal once a week (doesn't include blogging)
I did write down a couple intense dreams this past week. Glad I got them captured.
4. 1 anniversary vacation, 3 family vacations (includes camping), 1 "lovers get-away", and 1 "girls only" getaway!
Girls get-away-check :), we're still planning our anniversary vacation for May. Can't wait!
5.When fasting, start the night before (5pm Sat-5pm Sun)
Again, not going to work, but I do need to find something that will help me be more humble - epseically on fast Sundays. It didn't even feel like a fast Sunday to me. I need to make my prayers more fervent and heart-felt.
6.Write at least one "love note" from God every night.
Not good. Hope to pick this back up this week - even if it's just 1 thing.
7. Get our food storage and 72 hour kids up to par.
I am feeling good about it!
8. Appreciate my loved ones more.
Jason has been so amazing. I need to show him more how much I appreciate his love and service to me.
9. On the computer no more than 1 hr a day (except newsletter/slideshow days)
This hasn't been good. I decided that I only want to check Facebook ONCE a day. I really don't need to look at the computer more than once a day anyway.
10. Keep Word of Wisdom: Bed by 10:30pm, eat fruits and veggies and each meal and for snacks, exercise 4x a week.
Bed:FABULOUS! I haven't gotten to bed past 11 for a couple weeks now - mostly because I feel miserable & can't eat & can't read, so I just have to go to bed & try to sleep it off. Eating: I am going to try & eat more fruits & veggies, but right now I'm still eating whatever sounds like I won't throw it up! Exercise: once this week! Hope to make it 3x next week.

"C" GOALS (work on these, but not at the expense of A or B)
1. Stop being so sarcastic.
Bad. I am truly sorry to anyone I was sarcastic to.
2. Meal plan for each week.
It's been HORRIBLE since I've been sick, but I hope to make a few real meals this week.
3. Look for opportunities to share the gospel.
Yes, mom, my blog does help to share the gospel, but I need to do better about reaching out.
4. Bear my testimony 6 times.
Not this month...
5. Plant a garden.
I think we're getting close to that time, but I am having a hard time. Do we rip up the backyard & put so much time & effort into a garden when we may be moving? I need to pray more about this.
6. Put up a picture of the temple, the prophet and Jesus in our rooms.
ALMOST done! We did get pictures of Jesus, a temple and the first presidency in the girls rooms, but we need to put some up in our room.
7. Keep up with the FLY lady - keep our home ready for visitors and keep the routine
It's been pretty bad since I've been sick, but this week I'd like to try and stay on top on the laundry and get back in the routine of keeping the sick clean, running the dishwasher @ night, and cleaning the bathrooms in the morning.
8. Make Birthday Books for the girls
Gotten behind since I've been sick. Ireland's birthday is really only 3 months away! Ahhh!
9. Transfer all camcorder tapes to DVD
I am lost on this now, but I need to help mom this week & would like to start getting caught up.
10. Date night w/ sweetie 3x a month
Not yesterday, but we've had some great moments together this week. Maybe we can plan one for this week.

FAMILY GOALS:
1. FHE once a week
We did on Monday - about Joseph Smith.
2. Scriptures/conference/inspirational songs during breakfast
On the mornings I feel good, I need to MAKE SURE the scriptures or conf is going.
3. Stay out of debt
The Financial DVDs have been great! We're learning so much about God's way with money vs. the world.
4. Move to a small town
Working on it.
5. Be on time to church every week.
We were about 15 minutes early this week! And Ireland did GREAT in nursery!

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

I am alive...sort of

Hello everyone! Yes. I am alive. Basically.
But other than being alive, that's about it.
My main goal for the past few weeks has been to not throw up. I accomplished that last Sunday, but have regressed since then.
I'm keeping optimistic, though, and hope to be able to expand my goals in the near future. I know I keep saying that, but I really think it will be true soon. One the the midwifes I've been talking with says that 9 weeks is the worst since that's when the placenta implants, so I'm hanging on and hope to be able to feel substantially better soon.
I'm so glad that everyone is still posting. You're all doing great! Love you!

Helloooooooo...

Hey ladies,

Goals... hmmmm.... what are those? And resolutions, what the heck does that mean??? Just kidding (sort of.)

But seriously, I've been struggling lately. I ruptured my ear drum last week and haven't been feeling well but that's not an excuse. I will do better!

I've been okay at planning my day and listening to inspirational books. Now that I have a 45 minute commute each way, I'm able to pick up books on CD at the library. I recently finished one called "The Last Lecture." Talk about AWESOME! I would encourage you all to read or listen to it. It's a true story about a professor who is dying of prostate cancer and only has a few months to live. He writes his last lecture to his family and his students. Very awesome and it helps put life into perspective.

Other than that, same old same old, which means life is wonderful (even though I don't always see it that way.) There's a country song I love that brings it all home. It's called "Lucky man." Here's the link. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znAQoOkkvp4

Love y'all!

Tiff

Sunday, March 15, 2009

2009 March week 2



Celebration: 8 days with no sugar (this helps with my overwhelmed feelings)
better progress on keeping my check book register
Our Writers retreat
Challenges: Food storage, neck therapy

Thanks ya all for being part of this. Heidi, you were inspired!

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Last Week and This...




Well, last week was AWESOME as far as accomplishing goals and getting a lot done! The month of March has been really slow! So, that's really unfortunate, but fortunately it gives us time to get other things done that needed to be done. Last week we got all of the crown molding and base boards done in the salon, finished our chair railing and put it up, stained all of the wood in the stairway (we have wood panelling) and painted my station in the salon! On top of all of that I washed my face day and night every day, excersized 4 times, read scriptures every day, and we made 3 you tube videos. It was a great week!
This past week I haven't excersized. But I've still been good about washing my face and scripture study. We've been good about making you tube videos, I wrote a whole page all about extensions to go on the website, and Darrin made a sale on www.TVStandsElect.com!!! YAYAYAYAYAY!!!! That's a huge milestone (and one of our March goals)! I've also had more clients this week than last so that's good.
So-there you have it-these past two weeks have been pretty progressive in my opinion :)

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Yipee! The "New Post" invitation is open to my eyes!


Hi guys,

First, Sorry. I couldn't find the posting button for a while but I see it today! Yea!!

Second, my friend, Adiaha, from the Caribbean is planning to join us. Cool Huh? We should hear from her soon!

Third. Now that we have been working our goals for 2 months now I decided that I would switch around. The goals I'm doing well with are moving over for new ones. Here is my new list (notice the PROGRESS ON part)

GREAT goals
• Progress on WATER BEFORE BREADS, sweets or seconds
• Progress on Exercise progress
• Progress on neck: physical therapy
• Progress on Timer with Computer
• Progress on finances – Bus. Acct. not transfers, daily acct.
• Progress on creating loving memories
• Progress on faith booths with God: temple, church, serving
• Progress on memorize positive songs for sharing
• Progress on Share and or sell 300 MJ books by April
• Progress on Thanks thinking
• Progress on Food storage
• Progress on dates-kids, grandkids)
• Watching grandshildren
• Progress on -------------------------------------------------------
• Progress on -------------------------------------------------------

Have a Great Day!!
Love,
Mom

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Tiff's updated goals


Hello ladies, I wanted to post my updated goals so you can help keep me responsible. Can you tell I have a lot of time on my hands at work...!
Love y'all!
Tiff

Monday, March 2, 2009



Okay, so I've been quite the slacker about posting, lately I've felt a bit like this guy. I keep trying to get up and I can't seem to get there. Anyway, my excuses are valid up to a point. My computer was sick for a while, but now I have it back and it is doing okay. So, no more excuses for me. I'm still doing pretty well with the exercising and getting the kids to bed, BUT I've pretty much been pathetic with the water drinking and eating six fruits and veggies a day. I'm in the grey area when it comes to salad eating, reading scriptures and ten second hugs for my kiddos. And of course I can never seem to get up by 6:30, maybe it's biologically impossible for me....big sigh! Doing something silly every day..well I tickle the kids and joke a little, but I rarely get out of my comfort zone and really play with them, that's what I want to do and I haven't done the fifteen minutes of laundry thing much either, I also rarely ponder on a scripture mulitple times a day or go to bed by 11:00, it's usually between 11:30 and 12:00. BUT I did go to the temple twice last week...yeah me. So, this week is a pick yourself up, visualize and pray you do better week. Never, never, never give up...right??





Heidi - week #9 blah, blah, blah

First of all, I'm SO HAPPY to see everyone posting. I missed you guys - and your amazing support.
I almost didn't want to post because last week was...well, blah to say the least. BUT I KNOW that when I stop posting then I'm going to stop trying all together & I don't want that, so here goes. Last week, I pretty much just ate when I was hungry (which was a LOT), slept when I was tired (which was a LOT), and took care of the necessary things. That was about it. yup.
I'm really trying not to use my pregnancy as an excuse, but it is turning that way. I wonder if Jason wasn't home if I would not be so lazy, or if my children would simply be watching way too much TV every day. Jason just has been spoiling me. I truly do feel tired so much and I feel like I'm on a boat that is constantly rocking. So far no puking - knock on wood - but I feel pukey most of the day - especially if I don't eat at least every 2 hours. I told Cindy I got nauseous just stirring my malt-o-meal the other day. ANYway, I'm rambling, but I do want to do better. I like Cindy's graphic, though. I am lacking the motivation to get motivated. That's where prayer & you guys come in! My cheerleading squad!
So - here's my update. I'm looking forward to feeling better soon and getting more on top of things, but I'm NOT giving up either way!!

GOOD STUFF:-I did make a few good meals last week.
-I didn't attack my face
-I did send my amazing sisters/mom/grandma a card to let them know how awesome they are
-We did go to the temple last week (sort of...initiatory - I waited for about 40 minutes and told them I had to go. There's no way I would have lasted another 30-40 minutes without food!)
-I felt like our media choices were good for the most part.
-Better on my love notes from God

BLAH - NEED TO DO BETTER:
-Keeping my home clean & keeping up with the laundry
-Eating & Exercising. Both horrible. It's hard because there aren't a lot of things that sound good to be so I justify eating whatever sounds good, even if it's bad for me. Well, that just ends up leaving me feeling BLAH. I should even just walk for 20 minutes a day. It would do me a WORLD of good at this point.
-Spiritual things: Praying, scriptures, and striving to love and see as Jesus does and serving others has fallen by the wayside. I NEED His strennth and help and I know He's ready to give it if I just ask.

I'm not Dead

Folks, I'm not dead-just so everyone knows. I haven't posted on here for a long time so I'm sure people might have been wondering if I was rotting in my house. Welp, I'm not :) so that's good, right?
I have been pretty good with washing my face, prayers, scriptures, keeping my house clean, and pondering lately.

I've been bad at excersizing. Let me re-phrase that-I have not excersized-not even once!

But as mother said, that's why God invented new days, for new beginnings. And I especially like fast Sunday's because that means that it's a new day, new week AND a new MONTH! Sweet! So, Darrin and I sat down and set some new goals for the month of March. They are as follows:

-make 10 NEW you tube videos (I do videos of how to do different styles-and they really help to get people to my site! We haven't made a new one for quite some time.)

-Get to bed by 12 and wake up by 9

-Start and Finish our taxes (thank goodness that dad is going to help us! I don't know what we'd do without him!)

-Paint the Living Room

-Finish Crown Molding in the Salon

-Make a CLEARANCE section on the website of products that we've had for a while.

-Make Credit Card forms for the Salon

-Sell at least one TV Stand from TVStandsElect.com (Darrin's Site-This one might be tough. There's still a lot to improve on the site. It's complicated!)

-Save, Save, Save!!!


So, there you have it! I hope that Darrin and I can do this every month-set new goals. I think it's helpful to reset goals month to month based on what's working and what's not. And based on what will help you in a shorter amount of time then throughout the year.


I also excersized this morning (and I'm already sore!)! So, that was good :) yay! The salon is doing pretty well too! Just getting better and better every month. I'm lovin' it! And I love you all!

Hello ladies....

So I've revised my goals slightly. I changed my "hour of power" with 20 minutes of exercising, reading, and meditating to half hour of power (it still rhythms right...!) I also added doing one unexpected nice service for Adam once a week.

I've done pretty well at not sleeping more than 9 hours and only eating one bowl of cereal. Other than that, I was slacking but I liked mom's title of "there's always next week." I have a cute illustration from a day calender Aunty Al gave me that has a picture of a chick coming out of an egg that says "Begin again. It's a brand new day!"

What I really want to focus on this week is tracking our March spending and also keeping a journal with 2 accomplishments, 2+ blessings, and one thing I can improve on.

That's pretty much it folks. I was transferred to another community that's about 45 minutes away from my house. I've only been here a week but I think I'm going to like it and I'm super grateful I'm still employed.

Anyways, I love y'all!

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Trisha, Trisha

I deleted your last post, but that just makes everyone aware that you ARE THERE and we haven't heard from you forever on this blog.
we miss you...
So - now you have to post on here for real, OK?
LOVE Ya!

Sunday, February 22, 2009

Heidi - weeks 7 & 8

I'm with mom. Sorry, guys. I have an idea where the past couple weeks have gone, but let's just say they weren't completely stellar. The good news, as mom said as well, is that we get to have another chance! I'm pretty sure that's why God gave us 24 hours in a day. What if life were just one endless day & we never felt like we could start fresh? Today was a great Sunday, so I'm hoping that is a great set-up for the coming week. Mom spilled the beans in her newsletter that I am expecting. I'm just barely pregnant, so I'm really feeling tired lately. I've modified a couple goals, and I'm going to try and cut myself some extra slack, but I'm not feeling sick (hopefully that will continue) and overall I'm going to try and stay on track & give it my all!

PLUS STUFF:
-I can check off one of my goals - to have a girls get-away! Hooray! Thanks again sistas for a great time & mom for watching Cindy's kids.
-We were on time to church
-Still been working on memory stuff - scrapbooking, backing up and, making movies
-I felt good about my media choices for the past couple weeks. It sure makes a difference.

FOCUS ON THIS WEEK:-Saying a prayer before the day starts, sincerely asking for help with loving & seeing myself & others as my Savior does - to have that gift. And also asking for my heart to be softened and have an attitude of serving cheerfully and lovingly and to avoid sarcasm and ungodlike media.
-TAKE CARE of my face - washing every night & day & not getting close to the mirror.
-Cleaning my home - keeping it clean.
-Love Notes from God
-Listening to scriptures & conference in the morning. I'm going to try & dowload more sessions to my MP3 player.
-Family Home Evening tomorrow

TOP 5 GOALS FOR 2009:
1. To be able to see myself and others as Jesus sees us.
I'm realizing more and more how far I need to go on this goal. I also am realizing that it's not just SEEING, but LOVING myself and others as Jesus would. Obviously, I'll never be able to completely fulfill that, but I can try and I can do SOOOO much better. Especially with those closest to me.
2. To serve others more often and more cheerfully.
Another one I feel that I have such a long way to go. I really want to start my day before anyone wakes up & get myself in the right frame of mind - the right attitude to have the deep desire and gratitude to be able to serve my fellow man. I also do want to look at more organized ways to serve.
3. STOP attacking my face, arms, and legs by popping zits.
Not good. Like I said, I am excited to start this new week - to commit to wash my face every night and morning and refrain from getting close to the mirror.
4. Media: Avoid media with swearing, sex, or violence. Use my precious time to SEEK On the whole, I feel good about this one. I feel like I had many opportunities to fail in this and I feel God's help in choosing inspirational media. I'm reading a good book right now & I felt like our movie choices and music choices for the Phoenix trip were very appropriate and uplifing.

"B" GOALS (important, but not top 5):
1. Prayerfully attend the temple no less than 10 times.
We are planning for this coming Saturday to trade with the Warrens. I would also like to attend the Draper Temple Open house in the coming couple weeks.
2. Stay out of debt and Pay tithing and generous fast offering every month.
We did pay our tithing on the last deal Jason got, which is good. We're counting on those blessings as we look for jobs.
3. Write in my journal once a week (doesn't include blogging)
Wrote today!
4. 1 anniversary vacation, 3 family vacations (includes camping), 1 "lovers get-away", and 1 "girls only" getaway!
YAHHH! We had our girls only getaway & it was GREAT! And we're already planning our "lovers-getaway"
5.When fasting, start the night before (5pm Sat-5pm Sun)
Ummmm - so mom spilled the beans in her e-mail. I am expecting again and for that purpose will not be able to fulfill my fast like I have done. HOWEVER, for what I will lack in fasting, I am determined to make up in study and prayer and strive for humility.
6.Write at least one "love note" from God every night.
I'm going to focus on this this week for SURE.
7. Get our food storage and 72 hour kids up to par.
I am feeling good about it!
8. Appreciate my loved ones more.
NEED.TO.DO.BETTER. in so many aspects. It kind of goes back to sarcasm, but I don't genuinely show those I care about enough love, respect, and service.
9. On the computer no more than 1 hr a day (except newsletter/slideshow days)
Hey - I've been pretty good on this one for the most part - especially in Phoenix :)
10. Keep Word of Wisdom: Bed by 10:30pm, eat fruits and veggies and each meal and for snacks, exercise 4x a week.
Bed:Not great. I need to get to bed right when I feel tired - even 9:30 if I need to. If I wait, I get overtired & it's hard for me to fall asleep and I'm tired the next day.
Eating: Bad. I know I'm hormonal, but I really don't want to gain more than 30 lbs with this baby and I'm on a bad start. I already feel 3 months along. I need to AVOID sweets as much as I can - especially late at night - and eat fruit instead.
Exercise: Only 2x last week. I need to do better!

"C" GOALS (work on these, but not at the expense of A or B)
1. Stop being so sarcastic.
Bad. I am truly sorry to anyone I was sarcastic to.
2. Meal plan for each week.
Since I got back, it's been going pretty well. We had a great meal tonight & I have some good ones planned.
3. Look for opportunities to share the gospel.
Yes, mom, my blog does help to share the gospel, but I need to do better about reaching out.
4. Bear my testimony 6 times.
I bore my testimony to Tiffany about tithing. I truly know it helps us financially.
5. Plant a garden.
spring...I should probably do some research, though.
6. Put up a picture of the temple, the prophet and Jesus in our rooms.
ALMOST done! We did get pictures of Jesus, a temple and the first presidency in the girls rooms, but we need to put some up in our room.
7. Keep up with the FLY lady - keep our home ready for visitors and keep the routine
It's not too good right now. I did pick up on Friday, but it got messy on the weekend. It needs a THOROUGH cleaning tomorrow, then on Tues the weekly home blessing hour to make it really shine. And then I need to stay on top of it. I know I'm tired all the time right now, but if I don't maintain, it's going to be that much more work later on.
8. Make Birthday Books for the girls
I have gotten to October for scrapbooking Ireland. Still a long way to go - for both girls, but I'm enjoying it more instead of having a "cram session" right before their birthdays.
9. Transfer all camcorder tapes to DVD
Whew! This is the one I probably focused on most this month. I got EVERYthing backed up for 2008, and 2007, and I'm working on 2006 and beyond. I have got all those years captured & need just one more DVD burned for 2006 vids.
10. Date night w/ sweetie 3x a month
Cindy watched the girls (THANKS SIS!) while Jason & I had a great date night going to Best Buy, Red Lobster (yummy chicken) and visiting w/ the Simons.

FAMILY GOALS:
1. FHE once a week
I didn't get back until Mon night, but it isn't an excuse. We could have had it another night & didn't.
2. Scriptures/conference/inspirational songs during breakfast
Not great. Need to focus on this.
3. Stay out of debt
I ordered the Jim Sammons Financial Freedom DVDs this week and I'm excited to see his take on God's way of doing finances & staying out of debt.
4. Move to a small town
Jason is working on it.
5. Be on time to church every week.
Hooray - we were there & on time & Ireland did great in nursery!

Saturday, February 21, 2009

There's always next week

Week 7 report:

I think these last few weeks just disappeared. Like my laundry piles it beame somewhere in the folds of the way I felt and how busy I was pretending to be a young mom again.

The oops:
I didn’t even think of water before sweets. I figured I deserved the sweets
Exercise? My brain was getting enough exercise trying to remember how to make a peanut butter sandwhich
Neck- I can report that it is still attached to my head. That’s about all.
Positive songs- mostly listening to Old McDonald with the kids

The good:
We did make an extra out-of-debt payment, listen to general conference some and check the news a few times.

That’s about it.
I'm thankful that I could be there for Tiarra, Michael and Joshua. They are wonderful kids. Cindy is a great mom.

It's nice to know there's always next week. I’ll try to get back in the swing of things then.
Love,
mom

Thursday, February 19, 2009

New Time Savers

Hello ya all,

I thought that if we share time savers with each other we could have more time for our goals!

1. I found that if I use a large saftey pin to attach my bedroom blanket to my sheet then fold the blanket down on the top it saves time making my bed (and eliminates much of the hastle of lost, crumpled and misplaced sheets and blankets!

2. On my Pottspondering I shared pictures of the outfits I like. If I get dressed in the morning and like how my outfit turned out I take a cell phone snap shot! Thus saving time choosing my clothes.

3. By using a small 2009 calendar for some of my goals (business, eating etc) I can do a better job of looking at that goal. I just picked up a handful of them at the bank for free. Let me know if you want one.

Love,
mom