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!
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
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!
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
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
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
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Josie week 6
What a wonderful week. I read with the family, but most of all, I didn't give up!
I didn't freak out at the kids, or scream and kick my feet.
The basement is not finished, and that is frustrating, but I can walk through and visualize what it will look like when we are done.
We have paint chosen, baseboards, doors, almost carpet. Just waiting on it all to come together.
That said, I am with Becka, this is my family hospital, and I always walk away encouraged. Thanks gals!
I didn't freak out at the kids, or scream and kick my feet.
The basement is not finished, and that is frustrating, but I can walk through and visualize what it will look like when we are done.
We have paint chosen, baseboards, doors, almost carpet. Just waiting on it all to come together.
That said, I am with Becka, this is my family hospital, and I always walk away encouraged. Thanks gals!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Becka week #6
I'm sorry it has taken me so long to write. It is hard to write when you don't feel like you have any progress to show. To me, this is like a hospital - I go here to get help with my ailments. If I was well, I wouldn't need you all so much.
So, I read several good books on homeschool. I am really getting excited about starting but I know I need to hold off and not rush into anything. One of the books recommends a reading list and I have started on them. It also recommends spending at least 2 months deep cleaning and organizing your family so that homeschool easier. I thought the first thing I need to do is get the kids to help more. I started a new "much harder" cleaning routine yesterday with the kids working a lot around the house. I figure that even though it is harder for them now it will be easier if they don't have to change to many things when we switch to homeschool. I am hoping this will also give me more time for organizing and reading; and I have a lot to read. I need to lead the example and be able to teach from the books and I can't do them if I don't know them. The change is already happening and I love how it's affecting us. Of course we have our good days and bad days but I really feel that I am improving and that makes me feel great.
So, I read several good books on homeschool. I am really getting excited about starting but I know I need to hold off and not rush into anything. One of the books recommends a reading list and I have started on them. It also recommends spending at least 2 months deep cleaning and organizing your family so that homeschool easier. I thought the first thing I need to do is get the kids to help more. I started a new "much harder" cleaning routine yesterday with the kids working a lot around the house. I figure that even though it is harder for them now it will be easier if they don't have to change to many things when we switch to homeschool. I am hoping this will also give me more time for organizing and reading; and I have a lot to read. I need to lead the example and be able to teach from the books and I can't do them if I don't know them. The change is already happening and I love how it's affecting us. Of course we have our good days and bad days but I really feel that I am improving and that makes me feel great.
Heidi week #6
or...
"37 Days Doth Not a Habit Break"
or...
"Kicking against the pricks"
or...
"Falling off the wagon"
take your pick of blog titles. They all apply to me this past week. I really do feel like I was "kicking against the pricks" last week. I was so hard-hearted and hard-headed. I truly apologize to anyone who I offended or was rude to. Winter blues? hormones? stress? Maybe all of the above, but it isn't an excuse.
And here's my main downfall... Jason was at school on Friday and I gave in and totally destroyed my face. No... REALLY. It was not a pretty sight. In fact, I'd go so far as to say that it was downright scary after I was done. I would compare it to someone who has been dieting for a while and it all came down to that binge - nothing held back. I even took pictures afterwards. I told Jason that if I do this again, he has permission to post the pictures on here. He said he would never do that, but still I think I'll print them & put them on my mirror. They are hideous. I almost didn't go to church today...that's how bad it was.
I know most of you think this is ridiculous and even silly, but it is something I have been trying to kick for years and I would even consider it somewhat of an addiction, which was why I was so thankful for avoiding it for so long. The problem is that I really thought the answer was just avoiding the popping. At first my face seemed to clear up and it was great, but then it got really bad - underground zits galore, and just more in general.
So, now I don't know what to do. Someone respond who is an expert in facial care. I know I need to be more consistent with my washing & such, but I wasn't too bad. I don't want to spend a fortune on skin care, but maybe my cleanser or moisturizer is the problem?? Whatever the case, obviously I need help. I NEVER want to look like I did this past weekend. And at the same time, it will drive me crazy to just have all these zits that are there and noticeable. I just want CLEAR skin. Help!
OK - sorry for that rant. I'm just feeling really bad about it and I don't have the answers.
Here's a general break-down from this past week:
HIGHLIGHTS:
-I worked on more memory stuff & scrapbooked about 3 more pages for Ireland
-Media: I'm reading a good book and just watched FIREPROOF. You HAVE to watch it. I'm going to post about it on my blog. SO inspirational.
-We paid our tithing & a good fast offering today. I am so thankful Jason got a couple deals in at work before he left. Thank you Father!
-I think I was 5 for 7 in love notes from God.
-Progress on computer time. The girls are asleep as I write & that makes me feel better!
-I exercised 3 times, but I went for longer times & pushed myself more.
-I made some good meals this week, including a slow cooker recipe and homemade bread today!
THINGS I'M GOING TO FOCUS ON THIS WEEK:
-Taking care of my face. Researching about things that might be giving me acne - pillows? hormones? holding the phone to my face?
-Try to see (and LOVE) myself and others as Jesus does.
-Serve others more often & more cheerfully
-Be more open and humble as I pray and read my scriptures
-Fruits & Veggies
-Spending quality time with my dear sisters, whom I love so much.
I was feeling pretty down in sacrament meeting, but as I read this verse from "The Lord is my Light," I had to fight the tears. I know He loves me & will help me in my desires.
The Lord is my light, the Lord is my strength;
I know in His might I’ll conquer at length;
My weakness in mercy He covers with power,
And, walking by faith, He upholds me each hour.
"37 Days Doth Not a Habit Break"
or...
"Kicking against the pricks"
or...
"Falling off the wagon"
take your pick of blog titles. They all apply to me this past week. I really do feel like I was "kicking against the pricks" last week. I was so hard-hearted and hard-headed. I truly apologize to anyone who I offended or was rude to. Winter blues? hormones? stress? Maybe all of the above, but it isn't an excuse.
And here's my main downfall... Jason was at school on Friday and I gave in and totally destroyed my face. No... REALLY. It was not a pretty sight. In fact, I'd go so far as to say that it was downright scary after I was done. I would compare it to someone who has been dieting for a while and it all came down to that binge - nothing held back. I even took pictures afterwards. I told Jason that if I do this again, he has permission to post the pictures on here. He said he would never do that, but still I think I'll print them & put them on my mirror. They are hideous. I almost didn't go to church today...that's how bad it was.
I know most of you think this is ridiculous and even silly, but it is something I have been trying to kick for years and I would even consider it somewhat of an addiction, which was why I was so thankful for avoiding it for so long. The problem is that I really thought the answer was just avoiding the popping. At first my face seemed to clear up and it was great, but then it got really bad - underground zits galore, and just more in general.
So, now I don't know what to do. Someone respond who is an expert in facial care. I know I need to be more consistent with my washing & such, but I wasn't too bad. I don't want to spend a fortune on skin care, but maybe my cleanser or moisturizer is the problem?? Whatever the case, obviously I need help. I NEVER want to look like I did this past weekend. And at the same time, it will drive me crazy to just have all these zits that are there and noticeable. I just want CLEAR skin. Help!
OK - sorry for that rant. I'm just feeling really bad about it and I don't have the answers.
Here's a general break-down from this past week:
HIGHLIGHTS:
-I worked on more memory stuff & scrapbooked about 3 more pages for Ireland
-Media: I'm reading a good book and just watched FIREPROOF. You HAVE to watch it. I'm going to post about it on my blog. SO inspirational.
-We paid our tithing & a good fast offering today. I am so thankful Jason got a couple deals in at work before he left. Thank you Father!
-I think I was 5 for 7 in love notes from God.
-Progress on computer time. The girls are asleep as I write & that makes me feel better!
-I exercised 3 times, but I went for longer times & pushed myself more.
-I made some good meals this week, including a slow cooker recipe and homemade bread today!
THINGS I'M GOING TO FOCUS ON THIS WEEK:
-Taking care of my face. Researching about things that might be giving me acne - pillows? hormones? holding the phone to my face?
-Try to see (and LOVE) myself and others as Jesus does.
-Serve others more often & more cheerfully
-Be more open and humble as I pray and read my scriptures
-Fruits & Veggies
-Spending quality time with my dear sisters, whom I love so much.
I was feeling pretty down in sacrament meeting, but as I read this verse from "The Lord is my Light," I had to fight the tears. I know He loves me & will help me in my desires.
The Lord is my light, the Lord is my strength;
I know in His might I’ll conquer at length;
My weakness in mercy He covers with power,
And, walking by faith, He upholds me each hour.
Hola!
Hey, hey, hey!
So my progress has been so, so over the last couple of weeks.
Here are the highlights:
-Good at reading inspiring books at least 10 minutes a day
-Great at one bowl of cereal
-So so with not sleeping over 9 hrs (except on my days off)
What I want to focus on this week:
-Exercise!!!!
-Pray daily
-Journal
-Keeping up with the news
Life is great! I've been reading a good book called "Happy for no reason." The title is pretty much self explanatory but I'm really enjoying the book. Here is a short story from the author.
"The minute I landed in Bangkok I noticed that everyone looked so joyful and at peace. The Thai truly seem to live up to their nickname, as everyone was smiling. Today I asked Mam, our tour guide, why she thought the people here are happy, and she gave me three very wise answers. First, Mam said, “We don’t worry about things, we let them go. There is a common expression in Thai, ‘Ma Phen Rai,’ which means ‘Don’t worry, never mind.’ So whenever something doesn’t go our way or makes us a bit irritated, we just say, Ma Phen Rai, and we let it go. If someone’s late, we just take it easy. If we forget to do something that can be done tomorrow, it’s fine.” (It sounds like their version of “Don’t sweat the small stuff!”) Secondly, Mam said, “We are contented, which leads to happiness. We are satisfied with what we have, whether it is a little or a lot. We feel, ‘I have enough, and I am enough.’” Finally, she added, “We don’t compare. We appreciate what we have without looking at what other people have or what they do.” This explains the lightness of spirit in Mam and the other Thai people I’ve encountered on this journey. Their life is not easier or less stressful—quite the contrary—they just know how to let go, be at peace, and focus on the good. "
Love all you gals and I'll see some of you soon (YIPPEE!!!!!!!!!!)
So my progress has been so, so over the last couple of weeks.
Here are the highlights:
-Good at reading inspiring books at least 10 minutes a day
-Great at one bowl of cereal
-So so with not sleeping over 9 hrs (except on my days off)
What I want to focus on this week:
-Exercise!!!!
-Pray daily
-Journal
-Keeping up with the news
Life is great! I've been reading a good book called "Happy for no reason." The title is pretty much self explanatory but I'm really enjoying the book. Here is a short story from the author.
"The minute I landed in Bangkok I noticed that everyone looked so joyful and at peace. The Thai truly seem to live up to their nickname, as everyone was smiling. Today I asked Mam, our tour guide, why she thought the people here are happy, and she gave me three very wise answers. First, Mam said, “We don’t worry about things, we let them go. There is a common expression in Thai, ‘Ma Phen Rai,’ which means ‘Don’t worry, never mind.’ So whenever something doesn’t go our way or makes us a bit irritated, we just say, Ma Phen Rai, and we let it go. If someone’s late, we just take it easy. If we forget to do something that can be done tomorrow, it’s fine.” (It sounds like their version of “Don’t sweat the small stuff!”) Secondly, Mam said, “We are contented, which leads to happiness. We are satisfied with what we have, whether it is a little or a lot. We feel, ‘I have enough, and I am enough.’” Finally, she added, “We don’t compare. We appreciate what we have without looking at what other people have or what they do.” This explains the lightness of spirit in Mam and the other Thai people I’ve encountered on this journey. Their life is not easier or less stressful—quite the contrary—they just know how to let go, be at peace, and focus on the good. "
Love all you gals and I'll see some of you soon (YIPPEE!!!!!!!!!!)
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Heidi's progress week #5
Hello everyone! (sorry this is a day late)
Can you believe we're in to February? Wow - the months fly by for me, but at least I felt like last month was more "effort-ful" to me because I've stayed more focused on my goals. I also KNOW I've had help. I fasted again yesterday because I truly know how much it helped me last month to sincerely fast and pray for help with my goals. So - to cut to the chase, I did OK last week. Maybe not fantastic, but good.
HIGHLIGHTS:
-Memory stuff - scrapbooked 3 pages for Ireland & transferred almost ALL camcorder tapes to DVD. It's been fun to see some videos we haven't seen for a couple years!
-Exercising - 4x - yeah!
-Media - Been listening to & reading inspirational things. It's been great.
-On time to Stake Conf
-FHE (we're 5 for 5 weeks now!)
-Fasted for (really close to) 24 hours yesterday
-Love notes from God - 100%!
-Wrote in my journal, which was nice
-Went on a date w/ my sweetie on Saturday - thanks mom!
-Especially on the weekdays, I felt really good about my clean house!
LOWLIGHTS:
-Seeing myself & others as Jesus sees us
-Serving others more often & more cheerfully (I was really self-centered & ornery this week)
-Eating healthy foods
-Appreciate my loved ones more (I think I did the opposite of that this week. I need to do so much better!)
-On the computer no more than 1 hr a day.
And, here's another great quote!:
Henry David Thoreau:
Thought is the sculptor who can create the person you want to be.
TOP 5 GOALS FOR 2009:
1. To be able to see myself and others as Jesus sees us.
I think I slipped a bit last week and wasn't as sincere in my efforts. I'm going to pray harder this week and again try to focus on my (and others) eyes and heart.
2. To serve others more often and more cheerfully.
This one I really didn't feel good about. I've been so focused on memory stuff this week (which is a good endeavor), but then I have neglected other people and their needs (especially my kids) I'm going to do better this week!
3. STOP attacking my face, arms, and legs by popping zits.
I still haven't sat on the counter & popped my zits, but I did stand at the full-length mirror and popped more than I should have. I NEED to do better about taking care of my face, not just refraining.
4. Media: Avoid media with swearing, sex, or violence. Use my precious time to SEEK OUT wholesome music, inspirational books, TV, and movies.
I'm reading a book that so far is pretty inspirational. I'll let you know how it turns out.
"B" GOALS (important, but not top 5):
1. Prayerfully attend the temple no less than 10 times.
We went last month. Now, I need to get a hold of the Warrens & plan for February - especially since it's a short month and we're going to be gone for a few days.
2. Stay out of debt and Pay tithing and generous fast offering every month.
Jason did get a deal, which I am SO thankful for. We had stake conf, so we didn't pay tithing, but we need to do it this week!
3. Write in my journal once a week (doesn't include blogging)
Check!
4. 1 anniversary vacation, 3 family vacations (includes camping), 1 "lovers get-away", and 1 "girls only" getaway!
We're almost to Phoenix! I can almost taste it!
5.When fasting, start the night before (5pm Sat-5pm Sun)
Again, it wasn't a full 24 hours, but very close. I felt the spirit and again prayed for help with my goals.
6.Write at least one "love note" from God every night.
I think I was 100% on this one! And I am so blessed!
7. Get our food storage and 72 hour kids up to par.
I am feeling really good about this right now! I got some clothes and other items together and now I feel like our 72 hour kids are good to go! We still need a wheat grinder, but we are really close!
8. Appreciate my loved ones more.
I have been ornery and agitated this week with my loved ones. I don't know why. I could blame it on monthly issues, but what I really need to do is humble myself and have a change of heart.
9. On the computer no more than 1 hr a day (except newsletter/slideshow days)
I have plenty of memory stuff to do this week, but other than that, I will try and avoid the computer. On Sundays, Jason & I decided that we're not watching the TV or using the computer until after the girls go to bed.
10. Keep Word of Wisdom: Bed by 10:30pm, eat fruits and veggies and each meal and for snacks, exercise 4x a week.
Bed:I think I was 4 for 7. Not bad!
Eating: Not great. Probably not even good. I need to do better about eating fruits & veggies not just w/ meals but as snacks!
Exercise: 4x this week people - thanks for the inspiration Cindy!
"C" GOALS (work on these, but not at the expense of A or B)
1. Stop being so sarcastic.
I think I'm doing better, but I'm not sure. I've been praying, but I need to be more aware.
2. Meal plan for each week.
I did well this last week, but I didn't plan very good for this next 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.
I bore my testimony at church this month
5. Plant a garden.
spring...
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 worked SO HARD on Monday and got our home seriously clean, clean. I kept it really clean for about 3 days. The weekend wasn't so good, but I think for most of the week, I could be proud if someone just dropped by unexpectedly
8. Make Birthday Books for the girls
I scrapbooked 3 pages for Ireland! Hooray!
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
We did some shopping & out to dinner. Thanks mom & dad!
FAMILY GOALS:
1. FHE once a week
We did have FHE this week - on tithing - and ate rice crispies for the treat.
2. Scriptures/conference/inspirational songs during breakfast
Yeah - I think we were probably 6 for 7 again this week. It's been great!
3. Stay out of debt
Again, it won't be easy, but I know the Lord will bless us in this endeavor.
4. Move to a small town
Our fasting efforts focused on this a lot and we'll continue to pray and ask to be guided to where we need to be.
5. Be on time to church every week.
Stake Conf - we were on time!!!
Can you believe we're in to February? Wow - the months fly by for me, but at least I felt like last month was more "effort-ful" to me because I've stayed more focused on my goals. I also KNOW I've had help. I fasted again yesterday because I truly know how much it helped me last month to sincerely fast and pray for help with my goals. So - to cut to the chase, I did OK last week. Maybe not fantastic, but good.
HIGHLIGHTS:
-Memory stuff - scrapbooked 3 pages for Ireland & transferred almost ALL camcorder tapes to DVD. It's been fun to see some videos we haven't seen for a couple years!
-Exercising - 4x - yeah!
-Media - Been listening to & reading inspirational things. It's been great.
-On time to Stake Conf
-FHE (we're 5 for 5 weeks now!)
-Fasted for (really close to) 24 hours yesterday
-Love notes from God - 100%!
-Wrote in my journal, which was nice
-Went on a date w/ my sweetie on Saturday - thanks mom!
-Especially on the weekdays, I felt really good about my clean house!
LOWLIGHTS:
-Seeing myself & others as Jesus sees us
-Serving others more often & more cheerfully (I was really self-centered & ornery this week)
-Eating healthy foods
-Appreciate my loved ones more (I think I did the opposite of that this week. I need to do so much better!)
-On the computer no more than 1 hr a day.
And, here's another great quote!:
Henry David Thoreau:
Thought is the sculptor who can create the person you want to be.
TOP 5 GOALS FOR 2009:
1. To be able to see myself and others as Jesus sees us.
I think I slipped a bit last week and wasn't as sincere in my efforts. I'm going to pray harder this week and again try to focus on my (and others) eyes and heart.
2. To serve others more often and more cheerfully.
This one I really didn't feel good about. I've been so focused on memory stuff this week (which is a good endeavor), but then I have neglected other people and their needs (especially my kids) I'm going to do better this week!
3. STOP attacking my face, arms, and legs by popping zits.
I still haven't sat on the counter & popped my zits, but I did stand at the full-length mirror and popped more than I should have. I NEED to do better about taking care of my face, not just refraining.
4. Media: Avoid media with swearing, sex, or violence. Use my precious time to SEEK OUT wholesome music, inspirational books, TV, and movies.
I'm reading a book that so far is pretty inspirational. I'll let you know how it turns out.
"B" GOALS (important, but not top 5):
1. Prayerfully attend the temple no less than 10 times.
We went last month. Now, I need to get a hold of the Warrens & plan for February - especially since it's a short month and we're going to be gone for a few days.
2. Stay out of debt and Pay tithing and generous fast offering every month.
Jason did get a deal, which I am SO thankful for. We had stake conf, so we didn't pay tithing, but we need to do it this week!
3. Write in my journal once a week (doesn't include blogging)
Check!
4. 1 anniversary vacation, 3 family vacations (includes camping), 1 "lovers get-away", and 1 "girls only" getaway!
We're almost to Phoenix! I can almost taste it!
5.When fasting, start the night before (5pm Sat-5pm Sun)
Again, it wasn't a full 24 hours, but very close. I felt the spirit and again prayed for help with my goals.
6.Write at least one "love note" from God every night.
I think I was 100% on this one! And I am so blessed!
7. Get our food storage and 72 hour kids up to par.
I am feeling really good about this right now! I got some clothes and other items together and now I feel like our 72 hour kids are good to go! We still need a wheat grinder, but we are really close!
8. Appreciate my loved ones more.
I have been ornery and agitated this week with my loved ones. I don't know why. I could blame it on monthly issues, but what I really need to do is humble myself and have a change of heart.
9. On the computer no more than 1 hr a day (except newsletter/slideshow days)
I have plenty of memory stuff to do this week, but other than that, I will try and avoid the computer. On Sundays, Jason & I decided that we're not watching the TV or using the computer until after the girls go to bed.
10. Keep Word of Wisdom: Bed by 10:30pm, eat fruits and veggies and each meal and for snacks, exercise 4x a week.
Bed:I think I was 4 for 7. Not bad!
Eating: Not great. Probably not even good. I need to do better about eating fruits & veggies not just w/ meals but as snacks!
Exercise: 4x this week people - thanks for the inspiration Cindy!
"C" GOALS (work on these, but not at the expense of A or B)
1. Stop being so sarcastic.
I think I'm doing better, but I'm not sure. I've been praying, but I need to be more aware.
2. Meal plan for each week.
I did well this last week, but I didn't plan very good for this next 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.
I bore my testimony at church this month
5. Plant a garden.
spring...
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 worked SO HARD on Monday and got our home seriously clean, clean. I kept it really clean for about 3 days. The weekend wasn't so good, but I think for most of the week, I could be proud if someone just dropped by unexpectedly
8. Make Birthday Books for the girls
I scrapbooked 3 pages for Ireland! Hooray!
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
We did some shopping & out to dinner. Thanks mom & dad!
FAMILY GOALS:
1. FHE once a week
We did have FHE this week - on tithing - and ate rice crispies for the treat.
2. Scriptures/conference/inspirational songs during breakfast
Yeah - I think we were probably 6 for 7 again this week. It's been great!
3. Stay out of debt
Again, it won't be easy, but I know the Lord will bless us in this endeavor.
4. Move to a small town
Our fasting efforts focused on this a lot and we'll continue to pray and ask to be guided to where we need to be.
5. Be on time to church every week.
Stake Conf - we were on time!!!
The good, the bad and the ugly...
The good...
Kids to bed before 9:30--The kids were in bed more or less before 9:30 except on Friday when we were at a friend's house and didn't get home in time for the 9:30 deadline, it was 10:00 that night, but I still think I did very well with this.
Read scriptures for at least 15 min a day--I read every day, sometimes not quite for 15 minutes. But most of the time it was 15 minutes, so I'm counting it as a good thing.
Drinking 7 glasses of water a day--I did great on this toward the last of the week...and my bladder can attest to this as several times I felt like doing the potty dance in the car because I needed to go so bad. On Monday and Tuesday I drank 5 cups, but on Wednesday through Saturday I drank at least 7 glasses, hoorah! I am grateful to myself and to my God that I was able to do this.
Exercise four times a week, 30 minutes a time--I did it!! I exercised on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.
The bad...
Getting up between 6:30 and 7:00 every day-- I did this three times this week, but it was only because Joshua insisted on getting up. The other four times, I got up around 7:30. Soooo, I'm back to the Joshua at night thing. This week I want to report his sleeping habits at night and naps during the day so I can hold myself accountable for trying to get him to sleep through the night.
Me to bed by 11:00--Most of the time I got to bed by 11:30 which isn't too bad, but it's not by 11:00 either.
Ponder a scripture a day--Three out of seven times this week.
Eat one salad a day--Four out of seven times this week.
Keep the laundry up for 15 minutes a day--I did this two times this week, but I did laundry for about five minutes four times this week, so not good but not terrible either.
Show love to my kids with a ten second hug--I gave about 18 hugs this week, should have been
28, so I'm ten hugs short.
The ugly...
Eat six fruit and vegatable servings a day--I ate only about 19 this week, should have been 42, pathetic.
Do something silly every day--Only two times this week, tickling doesn't count because I do this all the time, only going out of my comfort zone and doing something crazy like playing on a playground with the kids counts.
Write in my journal every other day--Not once, no progress.
Attend a Heart to Heart meeting at least once a week--Notta
Focus next week...I want to keep up the good work on getting the kids to bed by 9:30, reading the scriptures every day, drinking my water and exercising. I want to focus more on Joshua's naps and sleeping by charting it, writing in my journal and pondering on a scripture a day. Of course I would like to make progress on everything, but these are my focuses for this week.
Kids to bed before 9:30--The kids were in bed more or less before 9:30 except on Friday when we were at a friend's house and didn't get home in time for the 9:30 deadline, it was 10:00 that night, but I still think I did very well with this.
Read scriptures for at least 15 min a day--I read every day, sometimes not quite for 15 minutes. But most of the time it was 15 minutes, so I'm counting it as a good thing.
Drinking 7 glasses of water a day--I did great on this toward the last of the week...and my bladder can attest to this as several times I felt like doing the potty dance in the car because I needed to go so bad. On Monday and Tuesday I drank 5 cups, but on Wednesday through Saturday I drank at least 7 glasses, hoorah! I am grateful to myself and to my God that I was able to do this.
Exercise four times a week, 30 minutes a time--I did it!! I exercised on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.
The bad...
Getting up between 6:30 and 7:00 every day-- I did this three times this week, but it was only because Joshua insisted on getting up. The other four times, I got up around 7:30. Soooo, I'm back to the Joshua at night thing. This week I want to report his sleeping habits at night and naps during the day so I can hold myself accountable for trying to get him to sleep through the night.
Me to bed by 11:00--Most of the time I got to bed by 11:30 which isn't too bad, but it's not by 11:00 either.
Ponder a scripture a day--Three out of seven times this week.
Eat one salad a day--Four out of seven times this week.
Keep the laundry up for 15 minutes a day--I did this two times this week, but I did laundry for about five minutes four times this week, so not good but not terrible either.
Show love to my kids with a ten second hug--I gave about 18 hugs this week, should have been
28, so I'm ten hugs short.
The ugly...
Eat six fruit and vegatable servings a day--I ate only about 19 this week, should have been 42, pathetic.
Do something silly every day--Only two times this week, tickling doesn't count because I do this all the time, only going out of my comfort zone and doing something crazy like playing on a playground with the kids counts.
Write in my journal every other day--Not once, no progress.
Attend a Heart to Heart meeting at least once a week--Notta
Focus next week...I want to keep up the good work on getting the kids to bed by 9:30, reading the scriptures every day, drinking my water and exercising. I want to focus more on Joshua's naps and sleeping by charting it, writing in my journal and pondering on a scripture a day. Of course I would like to make progress on everything, but these are my focuses for this week.
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