Christmas So Far

Grandma White sent this little people wagon with big legos ahead of Christmas and we decided to take Avery on a spin. She likes to play with the lego-blocks!

Christmas Eve: (see above pics) We all got together at Steve & Jenn's for the celebration and feast. My parents and brother, Ben, are in from Tennessee for a week. There were 9 adults and 9 kids total! We chit-chatted, exchanged gifts, and had a little Christmas program. Simple enough! (Well, except that I stayed up 'til 2 a.m. the night before making food and made Brian help me until 1 a.m.! It all turned out very good so it was worth it!) Avery took 2 hours to finally fall asleep for her afternoon nap. Poor child. She was good after that (and before, just not during).

Christmas Day: (see above pics) We had a simple morning just Brian and I and Avery. I've realized that the kids bring all the magic into Christmas. I can't wait 'til Avery knows what Christmas is all about! Later we met up at Louis & Katherine's house. We skyped lots of family. Love skype. Everybody had a kick out of "Photo Booth" on our mac. It's a sure entertainer!

The water looks inviting...

What are you doing to me, dad?!?

Day after Christmas: (see above pics & video) Avery's first dip! She's never been in the water before now. What a cute suit from Donna. :) She slowly warmed up to the water and even began to really enjoy it! What a fun kid. The pool was a lot of fun for all the kids and I enjoyed it quite a lot too- especially the big slide!

Sunday: (see above pic) Mom, Dad, and Ben are with us now and came to our noon sacrament meeting. Mom took care of Avery at church while Brian and I gave talks! We took it nice and easy today.

Monday: It is now monday. Brian went to work. The rest of us took a tour of the Bean Life Science Museum and even got to see a live reptile show! Now we're sitting here watching Batman begins (at least Ben, Avery and I). Mom and Dad are napping. I guess Ben is now too. ....and avery. It looks like it's me, the blog, and batman. Talk to you soon to finish up Christmas.

To Do List

Wow, I have a list here of 19 to-do's and only one is left unchecked! I don't think I've ever had so many checked off at once! I love making to-do lists because it makes me feel organized and accomplished. To be realistic, there will always be some to-do's that never get checked because they are so habitual (like dishes and budget and sweeping now - because of Avery). I am proud to say that I have DONE the bathroom! That was the worst thing on my list. I need to make Brian do it one of these days. I've been stuck with it most times because, well, if I've got time during the day then it ought to be my duty while brian works at school. Either way, though, he gets it next time!

A fun mental note I learned somewhere: Consider all the to-do's turning into ta-da's when you've done them! You're ta-da list is full of all you've accomplished that day. Be proud of it! Whoo-yeah!

Yahoo!

I'm so excited for Christmas!!! It's going to be a white one!!!!! Today I'm taking care of a lot of prep work: cleaning the bathroom (which has been put off for too long), straightening up the house, laundry, wrapping presents, shopping for a few more groceries I forgot (including dry ice for homemade rootbeer next week), getting dollar store treasures for a scavenger hunt I'm hosting for my nieces and nephews, and basically getting all my errands and planning worked out. I'm so excited for my mom, dad, and ben to come out to Utah and that we get to hang out a lot all together with my two brothers (and families) as well!

Ten Months Old

Brian had to remind me she is TEN months old. I didn't believe him at first. Really?? Ten?? That means she's 2 months away from turning 1! I'm already thinking of what we'll do for the big day. I'd like to try something untraditional from the normal cake mutilation ceremony of a 1 year old, but who knows. I guess it is kind of a fun tradition. We'll see! Beautiful Avery is branching out more every day. She's always looking for something new to do or see, but can still engross herself in old toys. *She has learned how to pull up on her own about two weeks ago!* When crawling, she often gets up on her feet and hands (rather than knees and hands); I think it's practice for standing. *She has officially cut her first tooth (about a week ago) and it's showing up on the bottom.* As of a few days ago, she's finally beginning to really drink from her sippy cup rather than fake a few sups. I'm always afraid she is getting dehydrated because nursing is still her complete source of liquids, but I'm feeling better about it now. Way to be growing, our Silly Avery!

About A Budget

On our trip to Idaho this weekend, Brian and I got to talking about our budget. Mostly it was me trying to figure out really how a budget should work. I do the budget. How strict should a budget be? How do you budget for the unforeseen necessities? What good is a budget if you are okay exceeding the allotment for one category? When is it okay to dip into savings for something (in the condition of paying it back quickly)? Are we in control of our money or is our money controlling us?

The hardest thing is figuring out the purpose of our budget. Sure, the budget is to help us not go haywire with our money. I think it's also a great way to evaluate where our money is going and push ourselves to be frugal. This gives me a sense of pride. The little details of a budget are what I struggle with most. I came to the conclusion in the car that there's no perfect way to sort your money and rule it. I feel that the most important thing to keep in mind is to BE CONSERVATIVE. If I "go over budget" on some category but feel that I was conservative or wise with my purchase nonetheless, then I'll think nothing of it. (Think of it: if you always over budgeted for things so that you never went over budget, where is the push to be frugal?) The real test comes at the end of a paycheck, when I've used that allotted money and I evaluate to see if I could have been MORE frugal on some things or if what I pulled out of savings for was legitimate, etc. Pulling out of savings is not (and should not) be a light thing. Only under the current circumstances in our lives do I feel justified on certain things. Once we have a real job, there should never be an excuse to pull from savings unless it is an emergency.

My final note is that I want you to know I LOVE the circumstances we are in. Yes, living pay check to pay check can be unnerving, but I really do love that it pushes us to be conservative and gives me pride in doing so. I love that we can even still save 10% of our income for savings (barely). I think living humbly also helps us recognize our many blessings. I'm grateful for God's tender mercies and opening the windows of heaven to us that we might not even have room to receive what he gives. Family has been most generous to us and I would be ungrateful not to give thanks to them and recognize their love. They are often the means by which God demonstrates his mercies.

Curly

Will she have her mother's curly hair? I'm thinking it's looking so! Perhaps it's still too early to say for sure, but take a look. Maybe we'll get to have great "bonding" times in the future like my mom and I did with her yanking the knots out of my hair in the tub. I've actually grown to be very appreciative of my hair over the years despite how I felt about it before (as probably most curly heads do). I imagine a curly headed child of mine and it simply makes me GIDDY inside! YOu know, I don't mean this to sound negative, but the more Avery grows (particularly as her hair comes in), the more I realize her wee baby pictures aren't quite as cute as I thought. I mean, talk about what a head of hair can do for your cuteness! I look back and think, "wow, she's really come a long way." And I bet I'll continue to say that as she grows more beautiful everyday. See there, it's a very positive thing really - she started out lovely and is more and more lovely every minute. And I couldn't say all these things about her appearance without paying a few words to her beauty that comes from within. Avery is a sweet, kind, loving, happy, and curious little girl. She makes us smile lots. :) love you, baby.

Do not be Deceived

Christ and Satan both have the ability to influence tremendously. In fact, it's Satan's job to make things appear good or true. With the craftiness of the devil, it can be hard to distinguish good from evil merely by using logic. Jesus came in a time when the Jews were all about upholding the law and everything was logical. When Jesus professed to be Christ, it was totally illogical to them... He did miracles on the sabbath and excused sinners and even told the Pharisees they were sinners. They were the ones who upheld the law so strictly; how could they be sinners? Jesus must be of the devil.

When we come upon decisions or are trying to discern the truth and what is good, we can use logic, but let's listen to the Spirit and the way it makes us feel about the matter. The Spirit will guide. Do not rely upon logic alone. To the Jews, Jesus was just another man trying to convince people that he was the Messiah. They were not in tune with the Spirit and what it could teach them. Be humble & listen.

A new day

Ah, another fresh new winter day. I've come to realize that I don't mind being cooped up inside all day from the cold. During the summer, I'd get stir crazy if I didn't get some fresh air a few times a day. Now that it's winter and awfully cold, I rather enjoy sitting around inside, looking at the pretty snow through the window, doing odds and ends around the house, enjoying the cozy warmness and playing christmas music. I'm less tempted to go shopping (though I may go today to get some grapefruit on a killer deal at sunflower market, and deliver brian's forgotten lunch). These inside winter days aren't so bad at all.

Last night, I was trying to figure out what it is about cooking that I like. I mean, shredding a carrot or de-thawing a chicken doesn't really delight me... but there's something about cooking that makes me happy. It must be the satisfaction I gain from making a good meal. Or perhaps it's simply exploring and trying out new recipes that gives me a little thrill. I've noticed that desserts are some of the most fun to make, but healthy foods are my favorite to eat. I feel yucky if I eat more than my share of sweets. I also gain some satisfaction by finding ways to use leftovers. The funny thing is that I can't say that I LOVE to cook, but there's just something about it that makes me happy.

Tag-along

Avery is starting to show up under my feet a lot. She now has realized that the whole apartment has many new things to explore--not just the living room. She also likes to be where I am if she's not engrossed in an object elsewhere. Often she crawls under the computer while I'm there and plays on the printer/scanner or pulls pictures from the box. See below.

We're starting to fight for the computer these days, too. I mean, she's not real pushy about it, but just loves to be in the action. And this is where the action is for mom.

This is my morning face! Don't worry, it livens up and freshens up as the day progresses.

Dishes

You know, I actually don't mind doing dishes. They can become overwhelming at times, but the actual act of washing them can be slightly soothing and rewarding... I mean, it's not like it's my very favorite past time, but I've come to realize that it's not such a loathsome thing for me. Don't tell Brian; he may never do them if he thinks I don't mind them so much... it's definitely healthy for the both of us if he gets in his dish duty.

Side note about cooking: can I tell you- I have yet to master fried rice. I've tried going by recipes and doing a little of my own alterations as well. It NEVER comes out the way I imagine or hope. They're either too bland or salty, too plain or dry, and it always seems to be missing SOMETHING, but I can't figure it out. I'm about to give up! My egg rolls turned out pretty well, though, and I'm proud of that. Not to mention, I found a genius way to use up corn tortillas- tear and deep fry them and sprinkle salt and you have FABULOUS fresh restaurant style chips!!! Try it!!!

Love You Inside and Out!

Here's our free roamer now. The living room is pretty much her personal play room. She loves unloading her diaper bag all over the floor, pulling newspapers off the table, hitting blocks together, picking up tree sheddings from the floor, crawling in between the dining chairs and under the coffee table. Whenever she backs up, she always hits her head and begins to panic. funny kid!

Here's to a most beautiful snow fall! We received a dump load this weekend and it was gorgeous!!! Avery wore her new snow suit for all of 5 minutes just to get thrown in the snow for a picture. The outfit's still a little big, eh? She wasn't quite sure what to do in the snow, but she just looked in awe and smiled lots. :) We love you, baby, inside and out!

"Blah-g"

If you didn't notice, the title sounds out "blog" ("blah-g"). Well, I thought it was pretty creative and didn't want you to miss it. The reason I titled it thus, is because, well, I feel BLAH.

Actually, I feel kind of guilty, but not. You see, the past few days I've been more or less sick. The mornings are when I feel the most sore-throat-ish. Regardless, I've been going about my business as usual and not missing out on anything due to this small set-back. Then last night, my congestion set in and made it hard to sleep (plus Avery on top of that). I ditched church this morning because of this. That's what I feel most guilty for, but not. You see, I also stayed home because Avery has been teething (thus with runny nose, cough, and being miserable half the time). Regardless, I feel a bit of a hypocrite because I did everything else I wanted to this week and then when Sunday rolls around, it's so easy to say that I'm sick and 8am is too early for me and my illness (besides, Avery doesn't need to be out in the cold either). Granted, if church was in the afternoon, I probably would have recovered enough through extra sleep that I would not have skipped out and maybe even dragged Avery with me just for my conscience's sake. I just feel like a bum. Yet, I shouldn't. Yet, I do. Church should be the most important thing of the week..... WHY does it have to be at EIGHT A.M.??? Oh bother, I can't blame early church. Perhaps I will just have to make recompense this week so I feel better about myself.

We enjoy her

I realize that uploading pictures to blogger is probably my favorite thing. I think you get a taste of almost every picture I take.

In Avery's state, she'd rather swig a bottle of tylenol than eat her carrots. I don't blame her!

Avery is ALWAYS dancing to any music she hears. It could even be noises coming from the VCR! She just moves her torso back and forth to the beat. The funny thing is that she only smiles a quarter of the time when doing it; I think it's mostly a body reaction. She cracks us up!

Melt your Heart

Sweet little girl. Her temp was up last night (99.8) and she was miserable. It melts my heart to hear her crying for comfort and relief. Her eczema flared up yesterday too. I think she could possibly be cutting some teeth for real this time. I don't feel anything, but her gums are looking white-ish. She was up every couple of hours last night and just can't sleep well. My heart goes out to my little babe and I hope I can find something that will soothe her. So far tylenol and teething gel aren't doing the trick, it makes me so sad.

I Shall be Honest

I was 'tagged' to list 10 honest things about myself. I would be glad to; I think it's a little bit liberating to be totally honest about yourself.

1. I love to sing well, and I listen to myself a little too much to critique. I wish I had a voice to sing popular songs on the radio well, but that's just not my style and not how I was taught. I'm okay with that.

2. I get impatient with many a church choir directors. I would love to experience this calling... I bet it would humble me a bit.

3. Halloween is my favorite holiday.

4. The thought of past boyfriends still riles me up at times.

5. I consider myself a very social individual, yet I don't rely on these socialites to get by; I see it as a way to gain friends and become more outgoing.

6. I'm not a phone talker but would like to talk more with friends and family (almost out of a sense of obligation but I know that developing and keeping relationships is a good thing even though I sometimes struggle).

7. I'm not big into shoes or purses and I'm proud of that.

8. I am ecstatic to receive gifts on my list, no matter how small (i.e. lip stick, house slippers, clamp hangers, cake pans, pinking shears, etc.)

9. Curel is the only lotion I love... if I could just get it with fun smells.

10. I think I'm the luckiest person to have the friends, family, and child that I do. I'm hoping that Avery will have curly hair, love to dance, and be very sociable and sweet and smart-- I think the odds are looking good!

I'd like to tag Jenni, Brittany, Cidne, and Nicole to list their honesties if you want to play along!

Olympic Park

We were more than happy to join Shelly and Bryce in Midway and Park City for Friday and Saturday! Thanks for the invite! They were brave to allow Avery at their anniversary getaway. We had a great time together at the Olympic Park and learning about luge, skeleton, bobsled, and the nordic jump. We were fortunate enough to see some live skeleton-ers and nordic jumpers!! They start kids out on the nordic jump at 6 years old!!!! Who are their parents???? Anyway, it was all very fascinating and VERY COLD! Check out our videos...

Nordic Jumper... Looks like a piece of cake, right?

The Skeleton. Now you..... well, I would have said, "Now you see him, now you don't" but I only got to the "Now you" part. These guys fly down the track at speeds up in the 70's and 80's. Luge is when you go feet first. Skeleton is head first. Want to know more? Ask me!

Just keeping baby warm! She was giggling a lot. :)

Pirate Island

Aaarrrr!! That's a good restaurant ther. Ye better count fer extra time to pull this big Kraken out of ther deep blue. "The Kraken" is the 2 foot pizza we devoured with Nate and Kimber! The ambiance of this pizza place was awesome... even the "saucy winch" who is the governer's daughter and our waitress.

Nine months old

Happy Avery. She sure is a cutie pants. And guess what! She can crawl!! (See video below) It was only a couple days ago that she figured out how to get her legs going with her arms. She's got good technique, I tell ya. She hasn't got the speed yet, but let's not get too hasty. I'm sure in a week she'll be cruisin' all over the apartment. Avery is 19 lbs. 2 oz. in the 75% (not quite past the 20 lb. mark like we thought), and 28 inches long (also 75%). Head circumference is in the 10% like usual. Our little porker is gradually shedding off her porker-ness and growing up right before our eyes!! Gosh, we sure love her! She's such a sweet, happy child.

Sweet Avery can sleep for 8 or 9 hour stretches at night most of the time now! (It's funny to realize that she actually does that now. I didn't ever see the day.) She's in bed around 7 or 8 pm, wakes around 10 or 11 pm (she may or may not fall back asleep without eating), and depending if she ate that last time or not, she might wake again at 4 am or something then finally at 7 or 8 am. I'd say I'm a pleased mother.

She nurses well during the day still along with a couple jars of baby food. She doesn't like drinking water so I wonder how long I'll be stuck breastfeeding, but the longer the better. I'd like to nurse her for longer than the norm (meaning, more than a year), but I can't quite visualize it. At any rate, I'll keep it up until I'm no longer comfortable with it or Avery decides she's done.

She is trying vigorously to pull up and likes to hug the coffee table or the dining chairs.

Haha! She wants so badly to stand and walk. It looks like she's on her way already.

Crawling at 9 months

The Apostles

Lately I've been reading the New Testament Institute manual for my personal study. I'm starting to see the apostles' behavior as curious, especially concerning their faith. I don't mean to undermine them in any way, but I want to bring it up for discussion and ponder on why they (and we) might have these weaknesses:

They first show their exceeding faith as common fishermen who drop their nets and immediately follow this man whom they have no evidence of is the real Christ yet. (Matt. 4:19)

However, it seems that they still have a lot of learning to do. When they ask to go bury their dead before taking their journey or say goodbye to their family, the Lord teaches them that they must take their journey with all their heart and not look back. (This is not an account of the 12 I just found out, but other followers of Jesus. Luke 9:57-62)

When the Lord begins to teach in parables to blind the meaning of the truth to those whose hearts are not ready, it is the disciples who continually have to ask the meaning of each parable. (This is the one I most don't understand.)

When the disciples are tossed in the sea, they fear their death and then are dumbfounded when they realize Jesus has power over the seas.

After 2 miracles of the loaves and fishes (one for 5,000 -Matt. 14:14-21- and one for 4,000 -Mark 8:1-9-), they still wince when they realize they've forgotten to bring bread on their journey and fear that the Lord will chasten them, He says "O ye of little faith...how is it that ye do not understand...?" (Matt. 16:5-12) This was another parable he explained to them about the "leaven of the Pharisees."

The disciples, when given the power from Christ, could not heal a man's lunatick son because of their unbelief or lack of faith; they only needed the faith of a mustard seed. (Matt. 17:14-21)

When Jesus asked the disciples who they think he is, Peter says "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God" (Matt. 16:16). What a testimony! Yet, they never believe that Christ is going to actually die and rise again until it has already happened. Peter denies Christ thrice (How is this? Jesus has even been transfigured before him and done all these miracles before his eyes and Peter has stuck by his side ALL this time and has even been entrusted with the church after Jesus is gone!). Judas betrays also betrays him as we all know.

There are many common people who have had the greatest of faith: The centurion who bade Christ heal his servant who was still at home, The woman with the issue of blood who merely touched his garment, The sinful woman who cleansed the Lord's feet, and many others who had ailments and begged for the Lord's mercy. He always commented on their great faith.

So, "Why," I wonder do the apostles struggle so? I'm sure there is a meaningful reason. It's not clear to me yet, but I know there is. Perhaps, we need to realize that the Lord calls people to do his work that are not perfect. Maybe we need to realize our own faults and struggles and humble ourselves. That's one thing- the apostles were definitely very humble and teachable. They had courage as Peter did trying to walk on water to Jesus. I know they had outstanding strengths and of course I do not mean to dwell on their weaknesses. I'm sure I have ten fold what they do. I look forward to reading more about them and trying to understand where I may be lacking in faith and my testimony of the Savior. I do love reading about his life and teachings. He must have extrordinary love and compassion and patience with all his brothers and sisters.

Marriage Seminar

Julie Azevedo Hanks is a relationship counselor (and LDS singer-songwriter); she came and gave us a seminar at our ward last week on becoming emotionally closer with your spouse. She covered many common problems we face in relationships and got to the bottom of them. The insights she gave were thoroughly enlightening to us and she was fun to listen to! Someone recorded the seminar and you can listen to it here. It's about an hour and a half. You would love it! Click on "MaritalSeminar"

Love is a Handful of Honey

We've been reading this book from the library, Avery and I. Love it! It makes me excited for a new day and makes me want to live in the country meadows by the forest and the mountains and relive all my childhood adventures with little Avery!!!

Love is that high-flying feeling

That makes you leap out of your bed.

Love is what makes you throw open the curtains

And somersault 'round on your head.

Love is that warm cozy feeling,

A cuddle that tells you you're sweet,

And love is that feeling of laughing out loud

When somebody tickles your feet.

Love's skipping out in the morning

And hoping the day never ends,

And love's what you feel when you all get together

And go on adventures with friends.

Love's when you hide in the forest

In places that nobody knows.

Love is that fluttery feeling you feel

When a butterfly taps on your toes.

Love is a handful of honey,

And love's making friends with the bees,

Even the flowers are bursting with love

When they're dancing about in the breeze.

And then when your stomachs are grumbly,

Love is unwrapping your treats,

And love's stuffing everything all in at once

Leaving masses of mess on your cheeks!

Love is splish-splashing through puddles,

And love's getting soaked in the rain.

Love is a rainbow that bursts through the sky

When the sun begins shining again.

Love's when you can't stop describing

Just what you've been doing all day,

And love is when somebody quietly listens

To everything you've got to say.

Love is a great bedtime story

That takes you to faraway lands,

And love's when you want to show someone you care

So you snuggle up close and hold hands.

Love's looking out of the window

To wave at the Man in the Moon,

And love's when you whisper good night to the stars

Who'll be watching you dream very soon.

And then when you're tired and sleepy,

And you're cozily tucked up all tight,

Love is that last little cuddle and kiss

That helps you sleep safe through the night....

Goodnight

Cribs are for playing

I couldn't help but post these. She's so fun to watch just entertaining herself in the crib and practicing her crawling and pulling up skills. I think she's very proud of herself!

She doesn't actually pull up yet, but she can get to a sitting position on her own and then she grabs the bar. Pretty cute when we walk in and she's sobbing, holding onto the bar and looking all innocent and helpless.

Exercise in the crib?

Check it out, mom, I can do the splits!

And the other splits!

She takes after us

This is how her mom likes to sleep; elbows up and in Brian's face.

This is how Brian likes to sleep, especially when he's trying to tune out Avery's cries.

This is me again on most nights.

Check out that huge nose bubble! Gotta love kids and their snotty noses.

Lehi on Parenting

My visiting teachers just shared with me a message about the rising generation. They each had very interesting insights that had to do with parenting and wayward children.

1. Lehi learned in his vision of the tree of life that his two sons, Laman & Lemuel, would both reject the truth. Did this deter him from teaching and encouraging them anyway? No. He tried just as hard as ever.

2. God is perfect; therefore, he is the perfect parent to all of his children. Guess how many decided to become wayward and follow Satan anyway? A whole third.

HALLOWEEN

Avery's 1st Halloween :)

The Magician, the Bunny, & the Top Hat

(Brian would have been the magician, but he didn't want to wear a suit... I like the way this worked out in the end!)

The inspiration for Avery's costume.

I told you she would be a bunny for Halloween! The little hopper.

Thanks, Brian, for letting us go trick-or-treating with the Burtons... it made my Halloween! We loved having friends over at our place that night to play games, chat, laugh, and eat apples in caramel!

Truth & the Gospel

Brian and I just finished reading the Book of Mormon together (for the second time probably) and started going over “Preach My Gospel” (the new missionary manual) for our evening study. Last night we started answering the questions from a chapter: “What is my purpose as a missionary?” and “What is the gospel?” We planned to get further than that, but we spent a lot of time dwelling on these answers. It was very enlightening to have these discussions with Brian. I learned from describing the things I felt to be true and he helped me realize new things through scriptural references (I love how he learned all these wonderful things on his mission and how his little blue scriptures are so marked up with good stuff.). So, I had a marvelous epiphany last night….

“What is the gospel?” At first I was thinking that the gospel was a set of commandments for us to follow and return to Heavenly Father. But that’s really not the half of it. Brian says the gospel is the Plan of Salvation and the Atonement of Jesus Christ. I never really considered that as the full gospel. However, when you think about it, the gospel is all things we believe to be true (pertaining to the Kingdom of God, I suppose). Truth is the way things were, are, and are to come [D&C 93:24, John 14:6]. The Plan of Salvation describes the way things were, are, and are to come. Therefore, the Plan of Salvation is the Gospel because it encompasses all truth. The Atonement of Jesus Christ is the key to the plan of Salvation because it was through this Atonement that we can be saved (hence the name: the plan of salvation). If it were not for this sacrifice, we would all irrevocably be sentenced to perdition [Alma 34:8-10, 1Nephi 10:6].

Now that I realize these things, I’m able to view the Atonement and the Plan of Salvation in a new, all-encompassing light. More so than I had before.

Another thought: A commandment isn’t: “you have to do this.” A commandment is: “if you do this, this is where you’ll go or the direction you’ll go in.” [D&C 82:8-9]. I like that perspective. It shows that we still have our free agency in the matter, but it is obvious that if we follow the commandments of God, we will have a great reward/consequence. Life is all about choices and consequences, whether they be good or bad.

Last thought: I usually try to find Bible references to all the truth and knowledge we have so that others not of our faith may more likely accept it to be true; when in reality, that’s why we have the Book of Mormon!!! It has brought us MORE light and truth (not all of it can be found in the Bible). The important thing is that it does not contradict the Bible (as long as the Bible has been translated and interpreted correctly). I’m beginning to love the Book of Mormon more and more and not be ashamed to accept all that is contained therein, whether or not it is accepted by others!

This gospel is true and is straight from our Father in Heaven!!!

Hmm.

Funny. I was going to sit down and write in my journal (on the computer), but for some reason I just don't feel like it. It sounds like a lot more fun to write a blog! Good thing I can just transfer my words to my journal when I'm done.

Today was... alright. Some good, some whatever. What did we even do?? I can't even think. This is how I feel about my days sometimes. I wonder how it is that all my time gets used up and it feels like I have nothing to show for what I did. Or if I even did anything. Which I know I did.

[Avery Sleeping Longer]

Enough babbling. I know Avery had a good night last night. I've decided to not feed her in the nighttime unless it's been at least 4 hours since the previous feeding. A few nights ago, I let her cry it out when she slept for only 3 hours on the first go-around. Best thing I ever did. The next time she woke up was 5 hours later (meaning she went EIGHT hours without food!); I can get used to this!!! Ever since, she's been sleeping for longer increments. By and by, she'll be sleeping all the way through the night! What an awesome thought.

[My morning. This part is sort of boring.]

So Avery woke up at 7:30 like usual and I decided to get up with her instead of let Brian babysit while he got ready for school and me sleep in. I was feeling awake. She wanted to be back in her crib after about 15 minutes, so I guess she wasn't done sleeping for the night. Fine by me. I got to take care of some business on the computer (like write emails, search for coupons for shopping, etc.) and do the dishes and write a grocery list. (Don't you just love this detailed account of my morning? ... Don't let me bore you.)

[Selling on ebay!!! ...and other errands]

Okay, it's already after lunch time (I hate how it takes so much time to fix up lunch, honestly!) and we get out the door to go shopping! First hit up the bookstore to mail off 3 DVDs we sold on Half.com. Whoohoo! Makin' money! We decided to start selling some of our stuff so we have money to do Christmas this year. So far it's proving to be working. I hope this continues! Avery was good while I went shopping for a gift for the Olsen gift exchange, but one of these days she's going to get really fed up with how long it takes me to do my shopping. I'm so very indecisive. By the time we got to the grocery store, she held in there, but she was probably the most honory she's ever been. I had to pick her up for the last 10 mintues. Poor child. I know it's my fault. You couldn't believe how happy she was when we go home!

[Going off about Halloween]

On our outings, I picked up a pumpkin for $1.20 (impressive, I know) and a black tablecloth on sale for $1.19 to make a big top hat for Brian's costume. Since Avery is a bunny, Brian will be a magician and I will be his assistant. Brian truly wants to be the top hat itself because he doesn't want to wear a suit. I don't blame him, but c'mon! Be a sport. Brian and I have very differing opinions about Halloween. It was pulling teeth for him to allow me to spend $5 total on our Halloween expenditures. I agree that we don't have fluff money to spend, but Halloween is important, right?! Ok, ok, I totally see his point, but I'm glad he let me spend money anyway. I did good, right? $5? yeah? Tonight we went to a neighborhood halloween party. Our top hat wasn't done and Brian agreed to only wear his costume one night (being Halloween, not tonight), so Avery was the only one to dress for the occasion. I put on green pants and an orange shirt to semblance a carrot for tonight. We pinned some white, lacy church socks to Avery's butt for a tail because I forgot to glue together some cotton balls. We thought it was hilarious! A little brown eye shadow on her nose and she just made us laugh! I like her bunny ears, too.

Yikes! It's past time for me to get ready for bed. I guess you've heard enough of my day anyway. I had fun telling you about it. Have a wonderful night! I feel like Santa Clause.... "[Happy Halloween] to all and to all a good night!" Oh, this makes me excited for Christmas now!

Enlightened

Every Sunday I feel enlightened at church. What a blessing. I’m sure some of it has to do with my preparation to be taught (like reading scriptures each day and praying for the spirit), but the other part of me thinks that I still fall way short at my preparation to be taught. Perhaps I look forward to being taught and I look forward to discussing or writing about what I’ve learned and that’s what makes me teachable. So for whatever reason, I am very grateful for the blessing of the spirit at church and those who prepare to teach.

During Sunday school, we are learning in the D&C (sections in the 80s). We talked about the word of wisdom, and the importance of prophets and revelation. I know that prophets are important and I know that we have the prophet Thomas Spencer Monson as a living mouthpiece of the Lord today. I know that he has stewardship over the whole church and will only lead us closer to Christ. I’m grateful that the Lord has given us guidance through the spirit and the prophets (the living prophet and apostles). I think I’ve taken for granted what this means in my life and what it means to have a church so unified and so true. There are often times when I look around me and see the faults of other members, but when I looked around today, I was struck by the valiance of these people, regardless of their struggles in life. This is the true church of God and these are the people who believe and are here to continually be taught the lessons of God and be one with him and his people. We DO have the truth and we are a people of the Lord. This is magnificent! We are not insignificant beings pludging along life’s road, pretending that we’re something special because we go to church on Sunday. “Going to church on Sunday” is such a trite expression to me. We are not just going to church on Sunday; we’re becoming a God-fearing, faithful, obedient, and diligent people—unifying ourselves and struggling for righteousness and closeness with our Father in Heaven.

In Relief Society, Sarah Lott gave the lesson for “teachings for our times” and she spoke of Elder Holland’s testimony at this last conference. It was very powerful and full of conviction and the spirit. He gave his solemn witness of the Book of Mormon and of its truth and reality. It’s times like these that I realize, yes, these men must know it for sure. They cannot lie. God has given them this witness and wants it to be a beacon to us that we might want to exercise our faith too and follow the example of these blessed men. I know that all of the things that they testify of are unmistakably true. That means that the Book of Mormon is true and everyone who has born witness of it is also true. I thank the Lord for Joseph Smith and his efforts to bring us this marvelous work from God. I thank all of the prophets who wrote these spiritual things down in the Book of Mormon for us to learn from and grow.

Sarah was explaining how Elder Holland is a very intelligent man. I’m sure he could easily give us many analytical evidences how the Book of Mormon is true and how it is different from any other book and tell us X number of reasons so we could be sure without a doubt, but then I realized, that defeats the whole purpose of the Book of Mormon. It is there for us to exercise our faith. Just read Moroni 8. We need that opportunity to find out through the spirit that these things are true. I’m grateful for that.

I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. (www.lds.org)

I love

This one is all about Avery. I love how she always responds to my smile with another. I love how she's so happy all on her own and she likes to clap her hands. I think it's funny when she buzzes her lips as she's eating and gets carrots or bananas all over the place, then she laughs or smiles. You can't help but join in on the fun; it's hard to get angry. I love her chunkiness. I love that she's so photogenic. I love to play with her on the bed as we have a rolling contest. I love how she's willing and even happy to conform to our schedule when it should really be the other way around. I love that she's a good baby when we leave her with someone. I love watching her play in the bathtub or play with another baby friend. I love to see her curiosity and how she peers around my shoulder when she knows there's something going on. I love how she holds things in the air to examine them. I love to listen to her blab and then say "muh-muh-muh" when she needs me. Her whimpers are absolutely darling. I love to nurse her. I love to see her play with her dad and squeal. I love how ticklish she is! I love every single thing about her and I know that all of it came with her when she was born. I don't feel like I've done a single thing as a parent that makes her this good. I know there will be a day when I have a trying child, but as for now, I'm going to be thankful for this ball of joy I have in this moment! I love to give her hugs and kisses. I can't wait to take her to many places to expand her world (like the zoo, the beach, the pool, the kid's museums, etc). I want to give her ice cream and rewards for being good and learning how to do things on her own like use the bathroom. This gets me giddy inside. I love being a mom!

Eight months old

I love Avery's curiosity. She's always been very curious. I suppose all babies are this way; there's just so many new things to see and do (and put in the mouth!). Just a few days ago, she started babbling "mma-mma-mma" (or more like "muh-muh-muh," especially when she's whimpering for something); it's actually pretty darn cute. So mostly she says "da-da-da" when she's in a great mood and babbling, but says "ma-ma-ma" when she needs something. Haha, how typical! Of course, this isn't the case all of the time. I love Avery's personality; she makes it easy to be a mom!

Four and counting

You would think I treat our glasses as if they were disposable, but I promise I have no hostility towards them whatsoever. In fact, Brian and I are both very fond of this set of glasses we bought as newlyweds. Sadly, we are down to 8 (we started with 12). All four we have lost were because of ME! What bad luck! It's got to be a curse. This is how they were lost:

#1: I dropped it on our carpeted kitchen floor in Willowbrook (Rexburg).

#2: I was babysitting a friend's little boy in Willowbrook and he knocked it off our table (I should have kept it out of reach).

#3: I was here at Wymount doing the dishes with a sinkful of soapy water and dirty dishes. I had the glass upsidedown in my hand, washing the bottom, when it slipped out and cracked in two pieces on another dish in the sink TWO INCHES away! (I must have been scrubbing pretty hard on the bottom of that glass).

#4: Today as I was swinging the bagged spinach in a circle to get the twisty tie on, it knocked the glass over on the table and poof! (See picture above).

Somebody save these poor glasses from me!!!

Play Time

If anyone knows us, they'd know we love to play games. Recently, we went to the Hirschi's place to play "Power Grid." It's always a lot of fun to hang out with Jenni and Jared; we also love to watch our kids play together. Their little girl, Katelyn is not even a month younger than Avery and there's just something about watching kids this age interact with one another that you could watch them do it for hours (don't worry, that's not all we do). Anyway, we're sure glad to have friends to play with!