Losing My Marbles

Can't get enough!

2011-09-12T18:43:00.011-06:00

It seems with each time we move I get the craving to do projects. It really all started when we moved to Colorado and we had areas that needed new furniture but we didn't have the funds to go out and buy brand new, so I decided why not find some pieces that I could put a little work into and save us a ton! Naturally when we moved to Utah we had room for more projects and I was excited to have something to take my mind of the Lonely.

This latest piece came about because for the last 2 years we have had THE UGLIEST TV stand (in my humble opinion). In our last house the t.v cutout in the wall was not large enough for our TV so my husband thought he would try his hand at salvaging...he worked at an air force base and someone mentioned to him that there was a building that was being cleaned out and that anyone was welcome to take the furniture that was left behind. "Lucky" us there was a t.v stand!! Let me just say that the t.v stand was left for a reason, but he thought "It's still functional, I am not letting it go to the trash!" so alas he brought it home and I didn't have the heart to tell him how much I disliked it, so it stayed.

Fast forward to a few weeks ago when I spotted the PERFECT piece at D.I for just $10, I swooped it up!! When I brought it home Jimmy's face was like "You think that is better than what we have??" but he humored me and unloaded it from the van anyway.

This past Saturday was her day in the sun!

(the doors actually had black slats or mini shutters that were breaking and I ripped them out and then remembered to take a picture)

I sanded all over and primed it and then painted the tops and sides first, leaving the front alone. Painting the front was a bit more tedious because it needed to be taped off in areas but the time was worth it in the end. As I was finishing up the last coat of paint it began to rain, now while I was under a covered porch the wind was pelting the rain into me and "The Precious" so my husband swiftly helped me move her into the garage and I decided I would have to complete her another day.

Then today I had some time once the girls were home from school to finish, I pulled out the chicken wire, wire cutters and stapler and was able to add the finishing touches pretty quickly! I really am happy with the way she looks, yes I do get quite attached to each piece, but when you have no other friends nearby they become your company. My husband was nearly shocked to see the difference and even gave me a high five, I guess he approves! Isn't she lovely?!?!

Projects!!

2011-09-07T09:11:00.012-06:00

I have written a few posts but haven't posted them, am I the only one that has "post guilt"? I start thinking "oh that was way too much complaining" or "I should have saved that for my private journal" but today I am pretty sure this post will be 100% appropriate!!

I have been in a funk since our move and I have been really lonely so I decided to get myself busy with some projects and while I am still kinda "funky" I at least feel as though I got something done, WOOHOO!

The reason: In our new house there is a "formal" dining room which will never be used formally, however there is a rather large chandelier that is at the perfect height for people, ok me, to hit my head on it.

My solution: I decided to place a small round table with a few chairs and turn it into a homework table/don't hit your head on the chandelier table!

After searching a few thrift stores I finally found the perfect table, it just needed a little sprucing up.

The color was actually pretty close to what I was wanting but as you can tell from the pictures it had been neglected over the years. The best part was that I only paid $10 for the table!!

Now with many of my projects I use spray paint but since I wasn't able to find the color I wanted in spray paint I went with what turned out to be a custom color with primer from Ace hardware since they were unable to match the swatch I had found exactly. Once I had the paint I went to work.

I lightly sanded the entire table and then wiped it down with a sticky cloth to collect all the sanding dust.

(forgive me for not taking more pictures)

After I gave the table two good coats of the new paint I let it dry over night, and then my favorite part the "Aging".

When it comes to giving some age to a piece I use everything, chains, hammers, sand paper, gardening tools and anything that I might find in my garage. This is why when choosing a piece to re-finish you want it to be of sturdy wood construction otherwise it could fall apart from the abuse.

Once I had aged it sufficiently I decided that the color was just a bit too bright and needed something else, so I dug in my magic bag of tricks and found a dark wood stain that I had from another project and rubbed it gingerly over the entire table, wiping it with a clean towel as I went.

The result:
The perfect piece for the space!

(These pictures were taken with my phone so it's hard to see the detail)

Now the table was lonely without chairs so my next search was for the perfect set, again this took a few days of searching thrift stores but I finally found a matching pair that would work.

The chairs started out like this (not bad if I wanted black) the chairs were $10 each

After some sanding, primer, paint and top coat...

I completed the second chair and allowed them to dry completely, when I brought them in next to the table I still felt they needed a little something so after a conversation with a fantastic friend she gave me a great suggestion...and here are the final results

I must admit that I am kind of in love with this room now! There is something very satisfying about giving a piece of furniture a new identity and even better when it's in my house!!

MOVING MOVING MOVING

2011-06-15T11:21:00.006-06:00

My house is utter chaos right now, there are boxes in every room, in the hallways and filling the garage. Dinner has been provided by McDonald's, Chick-fil-A, Digiorno and General Mills for this week, although I did make homemade salsa last night. Lexi is off to Girls Camp for the week so Grace is the "Helper" while I pack, call to cancel milk delivery (very sad about that) and finish editing pictures from recent sessions, she is doing quite well with the exception of locking her brother in a room so he couldn't run off while she was "watching a show".....hmmm perhaps she is onto something.

I have been an emotional wreck, but I hold the tears for sad songs, commercials, television shows, taking down pictures, or when I stub my toe on the stupid chair for the 10th time..... It's also easier to cry when no one is looking so I don't have to answer questions about why I am crying. Moving again after only 2 years in Colorado has been a tough and because we have known for a while it's been a slow unravelling of denial. It just felt like we would have so much time to spend with friends and family, then I became SO sick with this pregnancy ( now18.5 weeks or 4.5 months) that 3 and half months went by where I saw no one, did nothing and now it's time to move. We leave in less than 2 weeks and all of my minutes seem to be taken up by packing, thinking about packing or discussing packing. Because this is a rental, the management company has been here quite regularly showing the house to possibles, so we take breaks to move the boxes and then just stare at them as they find their way through the labyrinth...good times.

On the upside we know where we will live once we get to Utah, so that is a good thing and we are excited about the house. We will have lots more space and the neighborhood seems quiet and filled with young families. The bonus is that I already have a few friends that live in the area and Jimmy and I both have family around, which makes it easier.

My heart aches a bit to leave all of the AMAZING friends I have in Colorado, I will miss book club, girls nights, birthday celebrations, play dates at the park and Monday, Wednesday Friday at the gym! These women welcomed me so completely when we got here and it just feels I haven't had enough time with them, they have stamped my heart and life with their service, love and laughter. I wish I could just put them all in my pocket and take them with me but I hope to get to come back for visits.

Moving brings out all my insecurities. Will I make friends? Will my kids make friends? Will they like their new schools? How long will I have to use GPS and google maps to get around? Will people like me even if I don't have blonde hair and a Bump-it??? Will I learn the language??? Huge questions that you just don't know answers to until you get there.

Even though I KNOW this is the right thing for our family, it's still hard....well these boxes won't fill themselves.

Been Wanting To

2011-04-11T20:23:00.009-06:00

I have been wanting to update the old blog but it's been a little tricky, you see my sweet 3 year old removed ALL of the buttons from my laptop, the dear boy, and I haven't been able to recover them completely and some no longer push so well. So if you notice a missing 'F', a Comma the numbers 4 or 8 it's because pushing the little hole is a little bit of a pain. The other reason I haven't updated (if I am choosing to list my excuses, wait good idea I will list them)

Reasons I haven't blogged;
1. Missing buttons on keyboard
2. Been over the top sick with Pregnancy
3. I'm a sell out

Yes for those that haven't heard, I am a sell out, I tend to check in on the Book of Faces more these days instead of hopping from blog to blog, which at one point I enjoyed.

Oh the other little issue is this pregnancy is straight kicking my trash!! I have always said I was blessed to have had great pregnancies, I thought that by acknowledging the fact that I was blessed would protect me from said sickness while in the "family way". Apparently that tactic didn't work and this time around I have been sooooooo soooo sick, I mean morning to night nausea and on occasion sudden bouts of throwing up. I can't eat anything, well except for crackers, soup and Rice Chex cereal. I do have random times where something not easily attained will sound good and my fantastic husband has gone above and beyond, driving to places like Quiznos (there cheddar broccoli soup), Sonic (their cherry limeade and ice), Olive Garden (Minestrone soup) and Target many times for crackers and anything I can think of that I might be able to eat. Let me also say that we don't really live near anything, most places are a bit of a drive so his efforts to take care of me have been greatly appreciated. If I am in the mode of bragging let me list all the outstanding things he has done in the more than a month of time since I mostly been good for sitting on the couch and laying in bed.

Husbands Awesomeness;
1. Cleaning the house
2. Dishes
3. Laundry
4. Getting the kids to school
5. grocery shopping
6. Helping with kids homework
7. Bringing me a drink or snack
8. taking care of James during the day while working from home
9. Getting our kids to all their activities

I mean the list could go on but this gives a good example, he has turned into a full time caregiver and single parent. We live far from family and we hadn't told friends so it was all on him. He even still loves me after everything and he's sweet about helping me. I know that I am blessed to have a husband who works from home and has had the charity and love to take over all of my "normal" responsibilities without resenting me.

Things really took a nose dive when about a week and half ago I came down with a severe head cold which turned into a sinus infection, so not only am I
nauseated but I can't breathe and my head is riddled with headaches for days on end. And then our sweet 3 year old ended up in the hospital with pneumonia a few days ago, that night I managed to drag myself out of bed and be at the hospital with them while a friend stayed with the girls.

I have wondered how my husband is still standing after this many weeks of doing it all. He was already my hero but he has expanded on that notion and inspired me with his acts of selflessness and service. It's quite astonishing that he is the one doing all of these things and when I cry to him about feeling guilty for being sick or crying because I am sick he still stands in and comforts me.

The good that came from my ongoing sinus infection is that when we went to the quick care yesterday the doctor was kind enough to give me a prescription for anti-nausea medication on top of the other medications. I am really grateful for that and hope that once my sinuses clear I will be able to function better during the day relieving my honey of his posts.

I don't like to complain and I am not great at asking for help, so I feel mixed about sharing all of this because I know there are others in the world with greater hardships. That said I have to acknowledge the great man that I married, who has been a true captain in the midst of our family battle. He has kept the troops going and the fort hasn't fallen all because of his efforts and sacrifice.

(Jimmy cuddling with Buddy when he wasn't feeling so good.)

(Buddy receiving oxygen)

(Buddy waiting to have x-rays done)

I promise you don't want to see any pictures of me, but I can create a good mental one, right now I am laying in bed with my handicapped laptop, tissue shoved in my right nostril, with large gray sweat pants and a red shirt with no bra, no make up and I don't remember making it to the shower today.

Thank Heaven for Little Boys!

2011-01-22T20:16:00.015-07:00

Today was a difficult day. I don't really know how to begin to say what I want to say. I am a little rusty, and overwhelmed with emotion, perhaps I will let my heart lead the way.

The months leading up to Christmas I was deeply struggling, I was admittedly lost and off course, and then I heard about a 5 year old little boy named Ayden in my ward who was suffering from cancer and was in the hospital. I asked my friends who had been organizing meals for his family while they stayed with him in the hospital, if I could prepare a meal for them also. I knew that I needed to get out of my own head and put myself in a posistion to serve, and yet I had no idea how it would change me.

The day came for me to make a meal and I was collecting the ingredients on my kitchen counter when my an amazingly in-tune friend called and asked me if I would like to go with her to take the meal to the family, (initially I was just going to drop it to her). I had never met them, and I was nervous, but I couldn't turn down the opportunity to deliver dinner myself. We quietly entered his room in a special wing of the Childrens Hospital, the lights were dimmed and his mother sat at the end of his bed playing cards with him. He didn't speak but his spirit nearly knocked me off my feet, this little boy lay there with tubes and was so uncomfortable and yet he was sweet and shy. My favorite moments were when his mother would be speaking of him and he would close his eyes and then peek to see if we were still there, almost as if he were thinking "They are talking about me again?" His sweet mother Amber amazed me, she told us how their wish was that he would be well enough to come home for Christmas so she could play Wii with him. We stayed for just a little while and then we headed home again, but the visit stayed with me, Ayden and Amber stayed with me.

A few days later Ayden regained strength enough to return home for Christmas and then on December 29, 2010 he passed away. I was in Las Vegas when I heard the news and I cried, thinking of his mother, father and baby sister and how they must miss him so much. I felt grateful to have had the opportunity to meet him. If this little boy and his family could be so brave and filled with faith in the midst of this terrible illness and ultimate loss, I knew I needed to pull myself together. Ayden was such an example to me, I know that taking that dinner helped ME more than it helped them, I am sure. Thank you sweet angel boy.

(Ayden)

Last evening I was able to spend some much needed time with my girlfriends, and as usual I was home after mid-night. Then first thing this morning I received a text from a friend requesting me to call her. My stomach sank a bit when she answered the phone with a saddened voice, saying "Have you heard?", "No." I said and then she told me that our dear friend Annie, whom had just been sitting next to me on the couch hours before had returned home to find her sweet 5 year old son Ethan was gone, she went to check on him and he had passed away. Ethan has had medical problems since he was tiny, but he was such a joy, his smile could melt my heart. I looked forward to seeing him every week at church because he just smiled all of the time, just like his mama. My heart is broken for them and I can only imagine the sorrow Annie and her husband Justin must be feeling. Oh sweet Ethan, I still can't believe that I won't see you in the halls at church, I think he was the most popular person in our ward because everyone loved him so.

(Ethan)

These two little boys have touched my life and I am positive all those that were blessed to have met them would say the same. They are missed and loved and all I have are my prayers and love to send to each of their families.

I have a fondness for little boys, and I thank Heaven for sending one to my home. They love their mamas like no other. I didn't fully appreciate why it's so hard for mothers to send them on Missions or to College or to get married until I had my little buddy. James will be 3 on Monday and I must say that the last 3 years have been some of the best in the Kelley house.

(James playing the harmonica first thing in the morning)

Thank Heaven for little boys.

Christmas Letter

2010-12-21T10:18:00.013-07:00

The Cleavers (oh I mean) Kelley’s

2010

Well it has been a super year, filled with happiness and joy for twelve months. Everyone is doing just fine and we are thrilled for the New Year. How could our lives get any better? I mean honestly, with a charming husband and three perfectly mannered children, my life as a homemaker is swell on all accounts.

Let me begin with my kind husband, as he is the leader of our home, and so perfect in every way. He loves his job, while I am not quite sure what he does, he is always happy to go and when he returns home to us his disposition is quite enjoyable. He is thrilled to sit down to our home cooked meal and share his day with us and then politely ask each of us about our day, he is so thoughtful. He is always so loving and kind with the children, yet he knows when to have a firm hand. Jimmy is such a good man, it really is true, father does know best.

My day is not nearly so hard it is a dream to tend to the needs of my husband and children. They are all so special to me it is truly a pleasure to pick up after them, clean their clothes and prepare well balanced meals for them. I rise early each glorious morning to help them get ready for their day, I want it to be started off right with a nutritious breakfast and lovingly packed lunches. With a kiss and a smile I send them on their way knowing that their day has started on the right foot, oh what a swell feeling that is.

Sweet Alexis is growing into quite the young women, she will be twelve this coming January and fills our home with harmony each and every moment. Lexi, as her friends call her, began 6th grade this year and is doing just splendid. She participates in the band playing the flute and does such a fine job, she is also getting perfect A’s in all her classes. This year she is also a member of the esteemed theatre club, and has the part of a Narrator in the school play. Alexis loves to watch over her younger siblings so Jimmy and I might have a weekly date, she is such an angel.

Our wonderful child Grace is six and has a great spirit for life, she smiles all day long and takes glee in spreading smiles to others. She is in the 1st grade this year and works very hard. For Grace, GYM and art class are just nifty. Grace plays just beautifully with her younger brother, always looking out for him it doesn’t bother her one bit to have him tag along behind her.

The youngest in our family, James is turning three in a few short weeks. Golly gee he is such a boy, running, jumping, playing sports and enjoying comic book characters. James is well behaved and never flips his lid. Spending my afternoons with James puts me on cloud 9 as we sit and play educational games and when the weather is nice we visit the park.

We feel blessed this year and expect great and wonderful things in the year to come. Our family has been enriched with family and friends who love and support us; we are grateful for you and hope that your homes and hearts are filled with joy and wonderment this holiday season.

Most Humbly,

The Kelley's

Keepin it real:
Jimmy is currently working at Buckley Air Force Base as a Project Manager in the Engineering department. In his off time (when that occurs) he enjoys watching Supernatural and sleeping.

-Marylin (me), this year has been quite busy with my Photography business. I made 3 trips to Vegas for photo sessions, and have more trips in the works. There hasn’t been much time for sewing or anything else really but I am working on finding that “balance” that I hear so much about. When I am not editing I love to try new recipes, go on date nights with my husband, and spend time with my amazing friends.

-Alexis (almost 12), says that “She feels as though she was always meant to be in middle school.” Her life goal is “To visit the Mall of America and then be an actress.” Lexi really did achieve a 4.0 GPA, and loves being in the drama club (very surprising).

-Grace 6 ¾, continues to be our little spitfire, she makes me laugh and lose my mind on a daily basis. She loves to laugh, and since she is now missing both of her front teeth her smile is that much more enthusiastic. School is still a challenge but she is making tremendous progress and she loves to learn, it just comes at a little bit different pace for her.

-James (almost 3), is such a silly boy. He loves to dress up as “Pider-Man” and Batman regularly, watch Little Einstein’s, and help me in the kitchen. While he can be wild and crazy, he is super sensitive and hates getting in trouble. James constantly has some new catch phrase that he has picked up from his sisters, like “That’s not fair!” or “You’re so mean MOM!” (Aww the joys of an expanding vocabulary.)

BIG CHANGES AHEAD
Just in the last few days Jimmy accepted a position in a completely new line of work and in a completely new state. He will begin working from home for an internet marketing company starting in January, and then in July we will be moving to Utah (Lehi/Orem area). We are very sad to leave our home and friends here in Colorado, but life is an adventure and we are excited for what new things are ahead.

***I know it has been a super long time since my last post, if I am being completely honest I have mostly been a complete wreck, no really, I have. I think, no, I know that I allowed my photography business to take over my life. For the future I am trying to decided if there is space in my life for it, and if there is, how much. It's hard because I LOVE the art of it, but the business side kicks my trash. I already feel like I am letting my family down when I HAVE to work, but then I feel like I am letting my clients down when I HAVE to take care of my family. So in the end I am letting someone down and I end up a complete MESS, not enough time, not enough me. Forget about seeing my friends or doing anything fun, or anything else for that matter. I have never functioned well when there is too much on my plate, and this time is no exception.

The blog has been pushed to the side while I have tried to get a grip on my emotions, my sanity, and my priorities. I have missed the outlet of writing it all down and so if I were to set a New Years resolution it would be to make time to write, read, sew, see friends, work out, sleep, cook, and love on my husband and children.

I will say that one of my latest priorities has become getting back to the gym, I have ALWAYS LOVED the feeling of working out and in recent years it took a seat on the bumper (not just a back seat) of my life car. Well for Christmas I asked for a gym membership and my husband delivered. So for the last week and a half I have been working out like my life depends on it, ok so it's mostly my sanity that depends on it, but gosh darn it feels great, no AWESOME!! So this is where I am right now and for those of you that wish I were somewhere else, what can I say, but Too Bad.

Hamburger

2010-11-01T08:50:00.004-06:00

I love when little kids are learning to say words, well James has this one word that I could listen to ALL day because it cracks me up!!

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

For You Marissa!

2010-09-29T14:29:00.005-06:00

So I told my BFF that I would post some pics of a recent project! So today is for you Marissa, all of it, the pushing everything out in the hall to make it look clean, the open curtains for lighting, the made bed, and the frog doing yoga on the dresser to the left! Oh and please don't ask about the sock between the headboard and the wall (how embarrassing)

New Skin!!

2010-09-28T13:14:00.013-06:00

I am taking a mini break from editing to post. Recently James got some new digs and he LOVES them, he wears them all the time, as if he has found his new skin!

Oh and I got some fun new items as well

It's true. I love Football season, especially the Denver Broncos!! I have been a fan pretty much my whole life, I even had a poster of John Elway on my wall in the 4th Grade!!

Slacker Blogger!

2010-09-23T11:14:00.013-06:00

Just call me Slacker! I totally deserve it for the fact that my blog has been left soooo alone in Bloggy Land! I could tell you that the reason is because all I do now days is work work work! My photography business is hoppin and so it takes up all my time, not just spare time, but ALL my time! I could also say that when I am not taking or editing pictures I am taking reprieve in some reading and time with my laundry and Scrubbing Bubbles, not to mention my husband and children!

However I am not going to tell you that instead I will say that I am still alive and breathing most days. Having a slight mid-life crisis? Still deciding on that one since I am not sure if you can have one at not yet 32!! I have lots to show and tell about some projects that have squeezed a little time out of me! So don't give up on me just yet! Now I have to go deal with the almost 12 year old and her parent teacher conferences!! Good times!

Oh and since my friend Rachel is much better at getting pictures on her blog than I am lately I stole these from her! Thanks Rach!! :)

from a fun day picking berries with Buddy!!

Another fun day out at the Zoo with my friends Rachel and Michelle! Thanks Rachel again for the stolen pics! I swear one day I will get my act together (probably not, but it's fun to hope)

OH AND GO VOTE FOR ME Don't tell them though! - Do Parents Really Know Best? | iVillage Parenthood Contest

Don't tell them though! - Do Parents Really Know Best? | iVillage Parenthood Contest

2010-09-21T17:47:00.001-06:00

Don't tell them though! - Do Parents Really Know Best? | iVillage Parenthood Contest

VOTING STARTS TOMORROW!!

Sunday Scripture: Never Alone

2010-09-19T19:43:00.007-06:00

Matthew 14:30-31
30 But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.

31 And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?

In the May 1991 Ensign Thomas S. Monson spoke of the difficulties in War, not only in battles with guns and tanks but the war that can sometimes be the fight in our lives. Struggles that will inevitably come for all of us, he reminds us that we must comfort each other, reach out, love, and lift one anothers burdens and to also know that the Lord will lift ours.

To you He speaks the heavenly and divine assurance: “I am with you; you are never alone.”

The Following is one of my Favorite songs from Lady Antebellum:

May the angels protect you
Trouble neglect you
And heaven accept you when its time to go home
May you always have plenty
The glass never empty
Know in your belly
You're never alone

May your tears come from laughing
You find friends worth having
As every year passes
They mean more than gold
May you win but stay humble
Smile more than grumble
And know when you stumble
You're never alone

(Chorus)
Never alone
Never alone
I'll be in every beat of your heart
When you face the unknown
Wherever you fly
This isn't goodbye
My love will follow you stay with you
Baby you're never alone

Well I have to be honest
As much as I wanted
I'm not gonna promise that cold winds won't blow
So when hard times have found you
And your fears surround you
Wrap my love around you
You're never alone

(Chorus)
Never alone
Never alone
I'll be in every beat of your heart
When you face the unknown
Wherever you fly
This isn't goodbye
My love will follow you stay with you
Baby you're never alone

My love will follow you stay with you
Baby you're never alone

May the angels protect you
Trouble neglect you
And heaven accept you when its time to go home
And when hard times have found you
And your fears surround you
Wrap my love around you
You're never alone

(Chorus)
Never alone
Never alone
I'll be in every beat of your heart
When you face the unknown
Wherever you fly
This isn't goodbye
My love will follow you stay with you
Baby you're never alone

My love will follow you stay with you
Baby you're never alone

I must say that in my life I feel and see the waves of struggle, sadness and trials roll, as well as in the lives of those I love. In many respects it is much harder for me to watch others in their difficulties when it seems so unfair and there is very little I can do. I know that those things are out of my control and that the Lord is the one in charge and yet there are still moments when I wish it wasn't His plan for them to suffer. I want to yell at Him and say "Give it to me!, give me their pain!" and then I remember it is Him who will take it and relieve them in His time and way!

I know that my part is to love, to listen, to pray and live my life being grateful for my friends and family and support them in any way that I can. Over the weekend I was blessed to spend several hours with my extended family and my heart was filled with gratitude that these people are related to me! That I, was placed into the midst of such amazing strength, kindness, love and wisdom.

I was speaking with a cousin about how amazing my mother and her 4 siblings are, that there couldn't be 5 more compassionate, loving, funny and generous people all in the same family, anywhere else! Of course we are biased, but it makes me realize how important living righteously is, that for generations after me there will be those looking up to my example. Will I make mistakes, have I made mistakes, yes, but it will be how I recover from those mistakes and how I overcome my trials that will be my mark.

Tonight I am grateful to know that I am not alone and neither are my friends and family who are dealing with their own private struggles!

Love to You,

Happy Sunday

Marylin

Big Thanks!!!

2010-09-17T13:38:00.026-06:00

The last 2 1/2 weeks I have been consumed with a small thing called editing! I made a FANTASTIC weekend trip to Vegas for some photo sessions, it was both exhausting and exhilarating, my creative juices were flowing for 5 days straight, each session was different, fun and inspiring!!

The work after wards has put a toll on my house, kids, husband and my sanity at times, but this afternoon I called it a wrap as the last session was burned to a DVD and will be making it to the mailbox asap!!

I wanted to send out a BIG THANKS to the people and things that made it possible for me to work like a crazy women, and the miracle that my house didn't burn to the ground (with me still sitting at the computer).

First to the Inventor of the Crock Pot, thank you for keeping my family fed! honorable mention to Pizza Hut, Sonic & whatever my husband can grill!

To Mr. Dyson for creating a vacuum that can dust, sweep, suction and devour anything in it's path!

Yoplait for keeping me satisfied while sitting at the computer for way too many hours!

Opti-Free "Replenish" for doing just that so my eyes were able to stay open and in focus!

Catniss Everdine for giving me a few hours reprieve into your life in District 13 as the Mockingjay!

iTunes & Pandora for filling my ears with my favorite songs and keeping me awake

AirBorne for keeping the head cold to a minimum

Hanes for keeping me comfy in your sweats & t-shirts!!

And FINALLY to:

My texting buddies that kept me connected to the outside world!

Jimmy the Great for making sure we all had clean underwear and that the dishes were done at the end of the day, and just plain keeping it all going! LOVE YOU

Lexi for taking her siblings to the park in the afternoons so I could edit in quiet!!

Grace for doing her homework without arguing and playing with buddy!

and James "Spider-Me" for watching Einsteins, Matilda, Spider-Man, Bat-Man & Scooby-Doo multiple times while I "worked at the puter"!

Some of the Fruits of my labors!!

Do I Dare.....

2010-08-25T10:35:00.015-06:00

Even try to catch up at this point? We have had such a busy Summer and especially the last few weeks since school started, I haven't had the chance to blog about it all!!

First off I am thoroughly enjoying the "back to school schedule", we are up and going early every morning and the day just feels more, and is more productive! Lexi has to be to the bus by 6:40am and then Grace is there at 7:40am so by 8am it is just buddy and I!

Lexi went back to school on Thurs. Aug 12, she started Middle School and was BEYOND
excited!! For the first time she has a locker and she was even able to "open it on her first
try!", when she got home that afternoon at 3:10pm (they have longer school days here than in
Vegas), she told me she felt like "she had always belonged there" (only slightly dramatic). Lexi
has always been a bit advanced maturity wise, so I think getting out of Elementary school is
exactly what she needed!

She is playing the flute in band, which makes me happy since I also played the flute, (which I
would still have if I hadn't traded it in for a guitar in college, but don't worry I don't have the
guitar anymore either since my mom decided to give it to my BIL, whatev, I'm not bitter or
anything. I kid I kid). Back to Lexi, it was fun to show her how to hold the flute and help her
figure out some notes, she felt really good the next day when she was "the only one that
knew how to hold it!" I love that as a 6th graders she still gets excited and impressed with
just the simplest of achievements, she must be like her mother! Yup, that's us, just simple girls!

Grace had an assessment day on Aug.12th, but she didn't officially start until Monday
Aug.16th. Grace is in the 1st Grade and after the second day she told me she "wanted to go
back to Kindergarten, because it is more fun." It has been a huge adjustment for her,
going from half days to full days, she is exhausted after school! I have been surprised by how
much she loves sitting at the table with Lexi after school doing homework, I think it makes her
feel like a "big kid", but hey no complaints on my part!

So far it is going well for her, she likes her teacher and she is making some new friends. I love my
sweet Grace, school doesn't come so easy for her, as we were walking to the bus stop on the first
day she looked up at me and said "You know what I dream about mom?, I dream
about being the SMARTEST girl in the world!" with tears coming to my eyes I said,
"Well if you keep working hard you CAN be the smartest girl in the world." which
she responded with "Or I could just wish on a star." touche Grace, touche. I pray that
things will start to get a bit easier or that she will at least be given the strength to overcome her
struggles.

(and if my Spunky girl wants to be colorful and bright who am I to say no)

Just A Simple Girl

2010-08-23T21:01:00.007-06:00

I have been trying to convince my husband for years that I am just a simple girl, no need to try and move the earth for me, just a little TLC, and not the "Say Yes to The Dress" kind. I find myself smiling and happy at the most unexpected, yet pleasantly surprising things. So as once perfectly stated by a nearly nun, children loving, border crossing Maria "Here are a few of my favorite things"

Men standing in line to use the bathroom

A vanilla ice cream cone from Goodtimes

Sitting on a bench and "people watching"

Walking around Home Depot or Lowes looking at power tools

Garage sales/Craigslist/thrift stores

Trying a new recipe for dinner and my family LOVING it!

My kids eating popcorn while watching me do Zumba in my office

Riding my cart through the parking lot at the grocery store

Reading in bed while my husband works on his laptop next to me

Tim McGraw in a white t-shirt, jeans and his cowboy hat (this is a new find)

When my friends and family call just to say hello

Long evening walks with my man

Dreaming my way through Target alone

Listening and getting my groove on to my favorite songs while I get ready

The few hours in the afternoons when two kids are at school and one is asleep!!

Google-ing all the places I want to visit someday

...and knowing that in just a few days I get to see my Mommy and Daddy!!

(thanks Rachel for the photo)

See I am TOTALLY A Simple girl, no, really, I am!!!

Spiderman in THE HOUSE!!!

2010-08-17T09:58:00.008-06:00

Having a little boy has brought so many new things into our house and lives! James is ALL "Boy", he loves dirt, swords, guns, cars, sports and comic book characters, especially a web flinging, wall scaling, red suit wearing Spider man!!! I MEAN HE REALLY LOVES HIM, in fact he thinks he IS him, no, really, he does! He tells me several times a day "I Pider man, mom", he thinks he can climb walls, mirrors, ceilings, and when he watches it he sings the theme song! A week or so ago we got him is very own Spider man action figure and for the following several hours he just kept repeating "Pider man, Pider man, Pider web, Pider man...." over and over and over as loud as he could! We LOVE our "Pider Man" and I am so glad he decided to stay with us!

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Sunday Scripture: Forgiveness

2010-08-08T18:01:00.001-06:00

D&C 64:9,10

9 Wherefore, I say unto you, that ye ought to forgive one another; for he that forgiveth not his brother his trespasses standeth condemned before the Lord; for there remaineth in him the greater sin.

10 I, the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men.

I have often thought of myself as a forgiving person, I try not to take offense too easily and let things go. Though recently I have discovered there is a great deal of pain that is still unresolved from a long time ago. In my previous "legal obligation" I was repressed and suppressed, and I think that in some ways in order to punish myself and him I take it out on others, namely my husband and kids. I realized that forgiveness isn't something you just say or do in one swift motion but that you have to work towards it, and that sometimes long after the offense, there is still a required effort to forgive and then, let go. It is hard when the one that has hurt you is not there to see the pain they have caused, they aren't there for you to tell them, and most likely they are living their lives without ever thinking about it. The responsibilty falls on me to pray and seek the ability to forgive. I am the one being damaged by the lingering anger and pain, and I must make a decision to forgive him, to forgive myself, and replace it with the love of my Savior. I am not there yet, but I will keep working on it.

All my Love,

Coming to the End of Summer

2010-08-08T01:47:00.002-06:00

Well this past week I had aspirations of doing some fun things with the kids since it is their last full week of Summer break before school starts. It didn't really go as planned but I think we still got out and did a few things, Monday we went swimming with our friends the Andersons and the kids LOVED it! Grace had been anticipating the Ward Swim Party the previous Friday but when the afternoon thunderstorm moved in it was canceled, which for Grace, means devastation so when my friend Jen asked us to come down to their community pool I was ALL for it!

And if your sister won't let you out the gate when you want out........

.......it makes you sooo mad!!!!

This little love is my friend Jen's daughter Lucy and I just want to eat her, so funny and so expressive!

Tues and Wed we played at the park and hung out at the house just chillin! I must say that while I like to get out sometimes, I am kind of a homebody and I don't mind having days where we aren't scheduled and busy! However I have had TONS of editing to do so that took up much of my time.

Thursday evening we went over to the Kelley's for a birthday for our nephew Jr., aka Baby Will, aka Little Will, aka Little Willie, seriously the poor kid won't know his name because EVERYONE calls him something different lol, he turned 3 so we went over for a mini party.

Friday I woke early to head out to some garage sales, my true love, (it was a friends that is moving) where I ran into a new friend, Michele, from my ward, she and I headed to another garage sale and then back to my house to hang out for a little while. Michele has the cutest little girl my kids were wanting to hold her and love on her, poor thing. After they left we all got our chores done and headed to the library, where I had to handle some mean girls that were playing tricks on Grace, James was addicted to the water fountain, and Lexi wanted to check out every book they have. Since I am already reading a few I restrained myself from checking any out.

As we were leaving the library Jimmy called to say he was on his way home, which made me very happy since it was a little early. He said that he and Rob were gonna go hit some golf balls but thanks to the normal afternoon thunderstorm they changed plans and we decided to have dinner and then they went to do boy stuff at Best Buy! I got the kids to bed and then enjoyed some quiet time reading for the night!!

Saturday we were up and going pretty early because Lexi had a practice with the activity day girls who are singing in church Sunday. While she sang, James and I headed to another Garage sale (another friend is moving) :( we hung out and talked and James enjoyed punch and cookies. Then it was back to pick up Lexi and home to work around the house and eat lunch, followed by an afternoon out with Daddy. He sweetly took all 3 kids out to spend some time with him, I was able to edit and take a short nap, then we were off and headed to Granny and Grandpa's for dinner.

After a delicious "Granny cooked meal", we played out in their back yard for a while enjoying the beautiful Summer evening!

I am gonna miss the luxury of lazy days and Summer evenings here in the big CO, but getting back to a school schedule will be nice too!

SYTYCD!!!

2010-08-08T01:01:00.001-06:00

I have LOVED SYTYCD (So You Think You Can Dance) for years now, since season 1 baby, and this season I have a NEW favorite! Oh he is just amazingly talented and such a cute boy, Kent Boyd! He is a small town farm boy that just graduated from High School. GO KENT!!

Well Played!!

2010-07-27T19:06:00.000-06:00

Husbands, they are a very "tricksy" breed! For many years I thought they were just floating along letting the women be in charge and not paying too much attention. Then the epiphany occurred last night "Gosh darn it, they have been fooling us ALL along!!"

The Proof:

Have you ever wished for a moment to yourself? You think perhaps the ladies room will provide a bit of silence, but no, there they are, the little munchkins sticking their fingers under the door, turning the knob, or just walking right in. Or perhaps a nice soak in the tub? No, there they are again throwing their toy cars into the water, wanting to get in, or needing to ask you something "VERY" important. In fact I trained my self as a young mom to be very swift in the bath and lavatory because I know that my time is limited, so you get in and get out before they have a chance to swarm.

So these men, you see, figured out eons ago that if you stay in mentioned areas long enough, or create toxic fumes, children don't even bother to linger! So here I thought that men were just taking a long time when really they are just enjoying the peace and quiet!! DANG IT! We have been HAD!!

Sunday Scripture: Faithful Friends

2010-07-25T19:50:00.011-06:00

Mosiah 18:8-9

8 And it came to pass that he said unto them: Behold, here are the waters of Mormon (for thus were they called) and now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light;

9 Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even until death, that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life—

In life there are tremendous trials, burdens, struggles and pain. These difficulties can overtake us and discourage us, and in His magnificent wisdom, the Lord will use those around us to build us up, to keep us afloat while the storm rages. There has been more than one instance in my life where the Lord has placed just the right people on either side to sustain me in my weakness. Perhaps that is the reason in which I feel the deep need to love, protect, keep up on, encourage and befriend those around me. One never knows when the Lord will need you to step in and be His arms, His help, His love, so I try to keep myself open to those promptings of when to be that listening ear or shoulder to cry on. I try to be the friend that has often been given me.

Today I give thanks for all those that have stood as my friend, my support during the storms of my life, who will continue to be so and I pray for the opportunity to be the same for you.

All My Love

Happy Sunday

Feeling NAKED!! & GUEST POST

2010-07-22T17:41:00.002-06:00

Today I am featured on Queen of the House of Boys , I am pretty excited about it since it is my first time guest posting on another blog! So go check it out!!

Being as that photography is a love of mine I feel pressure to have all my pictures edited to perfection before they make it to my blog/facebook. But hey for a minute lets pretend I am not a photographer and I will show you some pictures in the "buck", their "birthday suits", all kinds of naked, just so that I can get them on here before next summer!! and go ahead judge me all you want :)

Lehi, UT part Uno! (bet you didn't know I was bilingual)

We spent the first few days of our trip staying with my friend Janelle! She and I met in a not so ordinary manner, I will tell that story later on. Her aunt and uncle have a pool so we went up and spent an afternoon letting the kids cool off in the water! It was ESPECIALLY HOT the week we were in Utah, it could have been due to my presence, but I'm not bragging or anything.

These girls became instant friends, much like their mothers!!

(the ever cool Alexis)

Janelle became very ill while we were there, so one afternoon I took 2 of her 5 kids and went to downtown SLC to the Children's Discovery Museum at Gateway! It was great because my membership to the Museum in Denver was good for the museum in Salt Lake so we got in for no cost! Before the museum we enjoyed pizza and ice cream, and I envisioned my life with 5 kids ages 11, 8, 6, 5 & 2, not too shabby!! We also met my good friend Kim at the museum with her 3 boys, it was great to see her and get to chat for a few minutes! (I didn't get any pictures with Kim though :( )

This here BEAUTIFUL woman is Janelle, she and I initially came into contact when I happened upon her blog while looking for a picture of my cousin Hilary Weeks (the LDS singer). She had done a post about her, and I swooped the picture from her blog leaving a little note saying hello, I believe she responded back with a little note and that was that. Then 6 months later I was at BYU Women's Conference in Provo, UT and as I came out of the Marriott Center I noticed a cute group of women taking pictures, I just made a mental note like "Oh they are cute." A few weeks after getting home I was searching through blogs and I decided to check Janelle's again when what would appear but this picture of women at the BYU Women's Conf. it was the same ones I had seen, so I couldn't help but leave a comment. From that point on we began keeping up with each other through our blogs and facebook. We have since discovered other connections and when I decided to make a trip to Utah she said we could stay with them! I was thrilled to get to meet her in person after a year and a half of communicating online! Some might think it odd but I just KNOW we were meant to be friends, she knows it too ever since I told her!! :)

(the above picture was edited a bit to crop out the peanut butter on my boob)

My visit to Lehi also brought a dream of mine come true!! I had tried the MOST AMAZING FRUIT TARTS from a place called Kneaders over a year ago and had been CRAVING them ever since so my first day there Janelle and I made a trip to get some, they did not disappoint!!

(the above picture should have been edited)

This is me in Heaven after my first bite into the tart of all tarts!!
(I did share however, I didn't want to keep heaven all to myself, ok I did, but I decided to be good)

Guest Post!!

2010-07-21T13:03:00.002-06:00

So I was given the chance to guest post by my bloggy friend Janelle over at Queen of the House of Boys. The post is about raising boys, and while I have just the 1 son and he is a wee sprite of only 2 1/2 it felt great to say why I LOVE having my boy and the joys of raising one!! Here is a link to her blog, my guest post will be posted tomorrow but she did a small introduction on me today!!

Oh and now that I have returned from Utah I have pictures and things to post about. I know, I know don't remind me that I still haven't posted much about our trip to Vegas.

A Little Lighter

2010-07-13T14:13:00.007-06:00

First, I want to thank you all for the love and support from my previous post! I can say that I was EXTREMELY nervous about putting it out there. I have never wanted to be perceived as a victim walking around with my badge to prove it. I am so grateful for the response that was received and if it has helped anyone than that is a true blessing. I feel as though now I can share more openly my life experiences without fear of rejection!!

After a slightly heavier topic, I thought I would lighten the mood with a few beauty tips, tricks and secrets from the retired Esthetician (please note: these are things I love and work for me, you might hate them :) ).

I happen to have quite the appetite for all things Skin, beauty & makeup, the problem is that makeup and skin don't ALWAYS go together. Over the years the industry has come miles in creating makeup that won't do a NUMBER ON YOUR SKIN! Being born an albino (not really), I have VERY SENSITIVE skin, sensitive to sun, makeup, moisturizers, cleansers, air, wind and I melt in the rain (again, not really). Well when I went to school to be an Esthetician in 2001 I was fortunate to better learn the types of products that work for my skin and ones that are better in general.

Here is a little sampling of my FAVORITES, and since I have been broke at times in my life there are items at very low cost and easy accessibility. (I have not been compensated by any of these companies to promote their products, but maybe they should be)

Shall we start from the base level and work our way up, yes we shall!

Beginning with Cleansers:

On the Left we have the well known Noxema cleanser, I used this for years when I was younger because it is mild and kept my skin clear. You can find this at just about any grocery store, drug store, snack shack and lemonade stand for about $3.99 (Wal-greens)

On the Right is my most FAVORITE cleanser that I have EVER used! Dermalogica's Special Cleansing Gel, and boy is it SPECIAL!! I began using in while in school (Esthetician school) and have never gone astray. It is more expensive but it lasts a VERY LONG TIME and it keeps my skin feeling and looking great! It runs about $30.00 and can be found in many fine salons and at Ulta.

Next up Moisturizer:

(let me say first that I also suggest using a toner but as I only have one that I like, I felt it wouldn't be fare, if you must know it is also a Dermalogica product)

On the Left we have Active Moist by Dermalogica. I realize that I have mentioned them several times, but their product is fantastic, and I stick to what I like. OK, well, Active Moist is a light moisturizer, perfect under makeup! It has a small amount of SPF in it but they don't list it, if memory serves me right it is SPF8 so you will get a little protection. It is not greasy or heavy but it gives great moisture to that middle of the road type skin. Found in "fine" salons, I like saying that, and in Ulta (about 37.00 for 1.7 oz)

On the Right we have Olay Complete, I love this moisturizer, in fact I have been using it for the last several months since my Active Moist ran out. It has sun (spf15) protection, is very light and non-greasy and inexpensive (about 7.49 for 4oz bottle). It is a great option for someone on a budget, which I think many of us are, yes?

Make up is next, (tip: you will always get better results with makeup when paired with well moisturized skin.)

On the Left is Bare Minerals makeup. I began using this years ago when the infomercials ran on late night television. Now you can find it in many "fine" retailers such as, Ulta, Sephora, and Nordstrom. It runs about $20 for one container (.42 oz). This a great product because is has SPF, it's light and hypo allergenic.

On the right is Physicians Formula Mineral Wear, I discovered this little number a year ago when money was tight and I didn't feel justified in spending on my makeup. I found it at Target for $12.69 (.49 oz) and I used a coupon for 2 dollars off. It has lasted nearly 8 months and I still have about half of it left. I will say that the coverage with this product is not as much as with Bare Minerals and I don't like the brush it came with so I use my Bare Minerals brushes to apply it. It is still a great product that I would totally recommend.

(tip: to keep your make up from forming bacteria, and to keep your skin clear, make sure to WASH your brushes every 10 days or so, use a mild soap and warm water and then lay out to air dry)

Next are some of the finishing products that I have come to LOVE and NEVER LIVE WITHOUT!!

The LashBlast Fusion Mascara ($7.29 at Target) is a new favorite! Covergirl recently came out with this new mascara and since I had been using the Original LashBlast for quite awhile and loved it I figured I would give it a try. It doesn't flake and makes my lashes thick, long and luxurious ;)

Another new product from Covergirl is the LiquilineBlast eyeliner ($7.49 on Amazon), I LOVE LOVE LOVE this eyeliner! I have tried MANY different brands and types and this one is by far the BEST, it glides on smoothly not pulling the skin and it gives the look of liquid eyeliner without the mess (plus, I don't know about you but I am the biggest DORK trying to apply liquid eyeliner)! The bonus is that it also has a blending tip on the other end which works like a charm!

The blushes and Eye shadows are all Avon, in fact they make several of my most used products. I LOVE their shadows and blushes, the above are just a few that I have tried. Avon is priced well and easy to come by since their are online stores, kiosks, and Avon representatives located in every city, town and bush!

Tip: For the sake of the thin skin around your eyes, and to help hold of those crows feat, having a gentle yet effective eye makeup remover is VERY IMPORTANT. I love this one by Avon ($1.99 on sale or $3.99 regular price)

Well I hope you have enjoyed this list of my favorite beauty products! If you have favorites I would love to hear what they are, I am always up for a new one to try!!

I mean seriously is this the face of a Covergirl or what!???? If these products can do this for me, just imagine what they can do for you!!! :)

PLUS A BONUS: A GIVE AWAY !!! The WINNER receives a tube of my FAVORITE MASCARA and a little extra surprise!!!!

All my love

Who's That Lady??

2010-07-10T23:53:00.005-06:00

(me at 18)

I have gone back and forth, back and forth, write, erase, write, erase many times now and I think I just have to jump in with two feet not testing the water first!

****Deeeeep Breath*****

and go.....

In recent months I have been reflecting a ton on my life before I was here, not here as in the city I live in, but here, me, the woman I am today. I look back at pictures of myself when I was 18 and wince a little, not because I was particularly ugly but because of the sadness that was so near the surface in my life at that time. At the vulnerable age of 18 I was in an intensely abusive relationship; physically, emotionally, mentally all the "ally's" you can think of. On the outside I think I managed to pull the wool over many peoples eyes, my parents knew there were major issues but I don't believe they could have ever imagined the hole I was in. I didn't reach out at that time in my life because I figured I had brought it all on myself and needed to figure it out on my own. I was alone in so many regards, scared, weak, beaten down, embarrassed, ashamed and full of regrets. I wonder now how I got to that place, I was raised by wonderful parents, I had terrific friends, but it was me that I hated and that kept me there, with him.

At 19 I was married and pregnant by the dark cloud I had been allowing in my life for 2 years, and I was even more stuck than before. How could I admit that I had been wrong about him all along, that it had all been a mistake, I just wanted to go home! When I was 8 1/2 months pregnant a small chip in the ice was made, it had been a very difficult day, lots of yelling and screaming. This giant of intimidation stood in front of me telling me all the horrible things I was, calling me names that you wouldn't call your worst enemy, let alone your wife, and "Marylin" broke through, I snapped, the cup of water in my hand sprung forward and splashed in his face, (well I guess he shouldn't have been standing so close), he stood there dripping for a moment and then his eyes burned with fire and I ran as fast as a pregnant lady can run down the hallway. He caught up with me and slammed me against the wall, placing a hand on each side of my head, he drew back his fist, and then, as if someone held his arm, he lowered it and he let me slip away.

There would be many more nights very similar to this one and I stayed until my daughter was born a few months later. When she was just 9 days old the "Marylin" in me shone through just enough to get me out of there and never return! There would be months and years of work ahead of me to overcome the damage that was done, the hatred for myself had to be worked through so I wouldn't end up in that place again, EVER! Was the road short, no, was it easy, no, is it over, mostly. I still have times that I deal with the fear and pain from all those years ago, scars, battle wounds that remind me of where I have been, and why I must never return!

This coming week carries with it the anniversary of a new start, the beginning of forever with my sweet Jimmy. You see he called me on July 14th 2002, it was a Sunday afternoon, I was living with my 3 year old angel in our own apartment when the phone rang. The last name Kelley came up on the caller i.d and my heart began pounding, when I answered, a gentle voice on the other end said "Do you remember me?", of course I did, it was my first love, Jimmy.

The weeks and months that followed went quickly and we reconnected, (for those unaware we met when we were 9 and had kept in touch over the years but it had been 3 years since we last spoke) and we were married 5 months from the day he called me. Heaven had sent him to me, to give me another chance and there was no way I would waste it.

So if I ever appear to "brag" about my husband for all the good he does, it's because I know what the alternative is, and I believe that focusing on the good in my life keeps me safe, keeps me here.

Oh and I am so grateful for the bangs in my younger years because they hid the disaster called my eyebrows, phew so glad I learned from that mistake!! :)

p.s I saved many details to my story,I am saving those for my memoir :)

Flashback Friday: 4th of July Weekend

2010-07-09T22:50:00.024-06:00

We started the weekend off with an adventure in Letter Boxing, it was our very first time. For those that haven't heard of Letter Boxing, it is similar to Geo Cashing, if you have not heard of either of them let me give you a brief description. Using a map provided by a website you follow clues to find a treasure, with Letter Boxing there are small boxes with homemade stamps that you stamp in your own little notebook! The kids LOVED it, it made hiking more of an adventure when they knew they were looking for something! Our friends the Clarks introduced us to this fun idea and we can't wait to go again!!

The kids getting ready for the hike
(look at the stink eye being exchanged between Sophie & James)

After a few different hikes in search of the boxes we found a great place for a picnic and ate some tasty sandwiches and let the kids play, they decided that playing in a nearby stream was just too tempting! Have I said how much I love it here lately??!!

After we filled our bellies and rested a bit we decided to explore once again and headed up a trail near the picnic site! I came upon these gorgeous flowers and sitting on them were these teeny tiny grasshoppers!! So cool!

It really was a great day and when we got home that evening the Kelley kids were beyond exhausted and slept very well!!! Thanks Kari and kids, it was so much fun!!

Saturday the 3rd we went over to Jimmy's parents house for a BBQ and fireworks! Jimmy was master of the grill and made some yummy burgers, hot dogs and a ground chicken sandwich for his wife who doesn't enjoy burgers and hot dogs!!

Jimmy showing us the "Proper" way to jump the smoke from the smoke bombs!

Great Grandpa and James making their way down to the fireworks

And of course I had everyone wearing Red, White & Blue

After the food we all went out to take part in our small firework show, it was fun until some people took a few too many deep breathes of the smoke.

After that a bunch of us piled in the cars and headed out for the Town of Parker Fire Works!! The kids were BEYOND tired by the time we found a place to park and sit, but when the show started it was all worth it!! However it did take us an hour to get out of all the traffic after wards, and then an hour back home so it made for a long night, yet again the Kelley's slept well!!

I didn't even take 1 picture on Sunday the 4th of July, I know I'm a slacker. We went to church and then had friends over for a BBQ and good conversation and a late night movie at their house for the adults. It made for a nice quiet evening.

I have a deep gratitude for those that have served and do serve our Country! I have many members of my family that have been in the military and I feel blessed to be a recipient of their sacrifice. I love being an American and living in a country where I am free to practice my faith, and believe in what ever I choose!

A little Bit O Fun!

2010-07-06T15:07:00.001-06:00

The Reasons Why....

2010-07-05T13:40:00.009-06:00

...I spend less time blogging
Less time editing pictures (sorry to those waiting)
More time laughing
More time happy
Less time alone
Less time sleeping
More time out of my mind
Less time knowing the answers
More time grateful
and More time being Me

Photography Time

2010-07-05T13:13:00.019-06:00

Flashback Friday: Occupational Hazards

2010-07-02T22:21:00.013-06:00

Now I know it has been a little while since I worked out in the "world" but I still suffer from O.H. (Occupational Hazards). Ya know things that you notice more because of a job you had or have i.e.; someone who worked as a waitress will notice a good server more quickly, a Civil Engineer will notice grading and sidewalks (jimmy), Me, I notice Eye Brows!!! In fact I was recently sitting in a movie and the main characters eyebrows were driving me UP THE WALL!!!! I have tried over the years to not stare at my friends eye brows, I don't want them to be self conscious, but sometimes I just can't help myself! As a Licensed Esthetician, my solution in an effort to give a little advice on "Proper" Eyebrow grooming and shaping is to post a tutorial, A "How To" keep your eyebrows looking pretty!! You're Welcome.

Step 1

The best way to a great result is to have the "Proper Tools", you can find them just about anywhere these days at very reasonable prices. Below we have needle nose tweezers, slanted nose tweezers and eyebrow scissors. Take good care of the tools, if they are dropped "nose first" they will no longer work very well, if at all because the tips will not line up.

Step 2
When deciding the areas that need to be "Groomed" there are some very basic guidelines to follow. If you follow these tips it will ensure that you DO NOT OVER TWEEZE, which in my humble opinion, is the single largest mistake people make when tweezing their own eyebrows!!!

First using a make up brush/pencil or anything similar, hold it to your face connecting the imaginary line from the outside of your nose, to the corner of your eye (pictured above) any hair on the outside or right of the wand should be removed, the rest stays!

Next you will then place the "wand" connecting the imaginary line from the outside of your nose through the pupil of your eye (pictured above), this is YOUR arch!! This is the area in which you will have a natural arch, DO NOT remove hairs too closely to the inside of your eyebrow creating a "False Arch", it does NOT LOOK PRETTY!!

Last Step is to connect the imaginary line from the outside of your nose to the outer most point of your eye (pictured above), this is the area in which your eyebrow should end! Anything beyond this point can and should be tweezed.

The final Result is a well groomed eyebrow that is not too far apart, nor forming a uni brow!!

Please make note I do not have very thick eyebrows, the hairs are pretty fine so I have to work with what I have. Also note that I have hairs that grow up instead of over on the inside, this is normal and very common, DO NOT REMOVE them, using your small scissors trim them a bit.

These are tips in SHAPING your brows, yours might be thicker, darker or lighter but these tips work for everyone! Women naturally lose thickness in their eyebrows as they age, and the hair will eventually stop growing once it has been tweezed/waxed long enough in the same area. These facts can either work as a curse or a gift depending on weather the hair has been removed from the right places. I have not had my eyebrows waxed in probably 7 years, the hair has mostly given up and I really only have to maintain a few strays a few times a week!

This is a DON'T
(unless your goal is to grow it and donate it to Locks of Love)

This is Another Don't
(unless you have just recently donated the hair to Locks of Love)

I hope to continue sharing some of the handy tips that I have learned along the way!
P.S Does this count as a Service Project??!!??lol

Sunday Scripture: Miracle Sunday

2010-06-27T22:41:00.008-06:00

Alma 7:23

"And now I would that ye should be humble, and be submissive and gentle; easy to be entreated; full of patience and long-suffering; being temperate in all things; being diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times; asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need, both spiritual and temporal; always returning thanks unto God for whatsoever things ye do receive. "

Today was what I will call a miracle Sunday, it came in 4 stages, first, my husband and I were both able to sit during the entire Sacrament meeting with our children sitting quietly and reverently. You see, James fell asleep just moments before church began and stayed that way, in my arms the entire time, a miracle in the lives of parents with small children.

The next part came in the speakers and music in Sacrament, the spirit was so strong and enabled me a long needed lift from my Father in Heaven. Thirdly, as I sat in Sunday school (the second hour of church) I was pulled from class in order to speak with a member of the Bishopric and be set apart for my new calling as "Ward Photography Specialist", the blessing that was given was as if I had placed an order and all the desires of my heart were answered. I felt the Saviors love for me, His desire for me to do good, to be good and to live righteously.

The fourth stage was during Relief Society (when all the women meet) as my sweet friend Melissa gave a beautiful lesson on 'Patience'. I again was filled with the spirit, and the words seemed tailor made for me. These kind of Sundays are rare, where every moment seems to be perfectly scripted and placed just so, in order for me to feel the spirit for 3 straight hours!! In fact I don't know when the last time I had a Sunday like today.

Ok I lied, there was actually a fifth stage when our Home Teachers came for a visit after church and then we sat as a family and had a wonderful meal. It feels kind of perfect really, I almost don't want today to end because I know that this mini glimpse of peace on earth will not last.

I believe that the Lord gives us these kinds of days to keep us going, knowing that there will be another down the road, days, weeks or years down the road, but so worth the wait. It felt a little like I was the lamb that He came to find and carried me back to the fold.

There is gratitude in my heart for all those that participated, added to, and supplied me with a Miracle Sunday.

Happy Sunday

All my Love,

Flashback Friday: Bit 'O' Vegas

2010-06-25T22:21:00.007-06:00

I really haven't had the time that I would have hoped for to post all the pictures from Vegas, well you don't have the time to view ALL the pictures from Vegas, since there are over 1000, anyhow I came upon this picture and it instantly made me smile! It took me right back in that moment and that is how I knew it should be the one I post for tonight!

The kids were playing outside (since we had brought some cooler Mt. temps with us) in my parents backyard and the girls were looking so sweet and I thought "Perfect moment to get a couple quick pics!", that is where James objected, he really had ABSOLUTELY NO INTEREST in getting his picture taken! Instead he chose to laugh demonically and throw his head back to emphasize his own hilarity in it all (he is sooooo his Dad), and those 2 perfect angels in the foreground, well they take after their Mom, of course!!

Kinked!!

2010-06-22T11:39:00.007-06:00

Well I am an awesome mess right now, yesterday I woke up with a kink in my neck! You see, it happened like this, for some reason Grace and James decided that 4:30am was a good time to start the day. They were making quite the ruckus so I went to check the little jabber babies, they had turned all the lights on in the girls room and were pointing flashlights in Lexi's sleepy eyes. I ever so "patiently" directed Grace back to her bed and brought James with me to my room when he then said "Foood, pweese Mom." in which case I headed down stairs with him got him some crackers and we sat on the couch watching Go Diego, Go. After a little while my eyes were becoming quite heavy and I told James I was gonna go back to bed, he then responded "James, mom's bed." so we both headed back up stairs and cuddled in my bed, well his favorite way to sleep in my bed is with his face on my face and you see, this my friends, is where the kink began.
I woke up to kiss Jimmy goodbye at 6:30am and that is when I felt it, the pain was debilitating and I wanted to cry! I found a more comfortable position and that is where I stayed ALL day yesterday and most likely ALL day today, other than a few trips to the restroom. This kink forces me to keep my chin to my chest, so when I decided to try and take a shower last night I nearly drowned (OK not really, but kind of). I mean just imagine how silly I look when I try to stand, it's like the Hunch Back of Kelley Dame, and the worst part is that all I see is how badly the floor needs to be vacuumed !! Thank goodness for Lexi or I would be in real trouble because she is totally taking over care of the younger two and brings me water, grapes, cereal, yogurt, whatever I need!! Eating is also a challenge, since I can't extend my neck up I have to lean out like a turtle to put anything in my mouth and then it often dribbles down my chin, just check me into an old folks home OK!!

So here I lay in my bed with my husbands laptop on my stomach, my pillow propped behind my head so all I see is how far down my boobs sag, and the computer screen, again, I am an AWESOME mess!! Ibuprofen doesn't seem to help and we don't own a heating pad, and the attempts by an 11 year old to make one were unsuccessful, sweet, but unsuccessful. Lexi has taken the kids down the street to the park so the house is quiet for now, seriously I highly recommend everyone get an 11 year old, especially for times like this, they are so handy! I will have to really do something nice for her once I am able to meet her gaze again.

Oh wait!! I almost forgot, in an effort to boost my spirits yesterday, my husband surprised me with really good tickets to see LADY ANTEBELLUM (my fave) and Tim Mcgraw the end of July, it totally worked until I shifted my head in the excitement and then I had to cry a little.

Sunday Scripture: Father's Day

2010-06-20T22:54:00.006-06:00

“Fatherhood is leadership, the most important kind of leadership. It has always been so; it always will be so. Father, with the assistance and counsel and encouragement of your eternal companion, you preside in the home. It is not a matter of whether you are most worthy or best qualified, but it is a matter of [divine] appointment.”

(Taken from a talk by Elder L. Tom Perry "Fatherhood, an Eternal Calling" in the Liahona May 2004)

Today is Sunday and Father's day and I have been dearly blessed in my life in having an amazing Father and an amazing Father to my children. I am not quite sure how I was seen as fit to have both in a single lifetime but I am eternally grateful!! I hope that today you celebrated, appreciated, called, hugged, any man in your life that has been a "father" to you or your children. It is a role that can be walked away from, turned down, neglected, or abused, and has been by many, so for today I pray that we all acknowledged those that have embraced, cherished, reveled, and exemplified this calling. Here is the two most important Fathers in my life, Love you and could never replace you!

All my Love

Happy Sunday

Marylin

Sunday Scripture: A Little Bit from the Heart!

2010-06-13T22:33:00.011-06:00

I have been thinking all day about what scripture would be great to share. I have been reading in The Pearl of Great Price (Abraham), recently and I took notes in church, yet I don't have a single thought that feels like escaping my head right now. So, I will speak from my heart and I pray you will be able to connect with me.

I am HOME! The kids and I had a wonderful visit to Vegas, we spent lots of time with my parents and I was fortunate to see some amazing friends while I was there. We drove into our driveway on Wednesday evening and it was the biggest feeling of elation, just so happy to be home, to see my husbands sweet smile and sleep in my own bed! As I am sure most of you can relate to the feeling of being happy to be home, there is also tons of work to be done, ya know: Laundry, cleaning, unpacking, grocery shopping, all of my most favorite things (enter sarcasm). Since we were gone nearly a month, and I brought back things that had been left in Vegas from our move, the work is ten fold!

Alas, I am exhausted! I have so much to do to get caught up, and the days still only have 24 hours, can you believe it, after all these years??? I have TONS and TONS of pictures to edit, thanks to some fantastic photo sessions, I still have several sewing projects, and my house and large booty need some attention (speaking of which it is sticking to my chair, hold on......perfect, someone was eating fruit snacks in my computer chair)!!!!

I can't wait for you to see and hear about some of the fun things we did while in Vegas, and eventually I will get to them, but for now I must go to sleep. Ok, ok, if you insist, here is a little sneaky peaky!

(above) Grandpa giving the kids a ride!!!

Some time at our favorite park!!

James and Sarah giving me some action shots!!

Grace enjoying the pool

SEE I TOLD YOU WE HAD FUN!!!!

Happy Sunday

All my love

Marylin

GIVE AWAY!!

2010-06-05T12:12:00.001-06:00

I came across this FANTASTIC blog that has all sorts of GIVE AWAYS and thought I would share!! GO HERE and check it out!!

Shoulda Knocked On Wood!!

2010-05-31T21:10:00.009-06:00

Last week I was feeling a bit down, ya know "I'm so fat! I'm so dumb! I have gray hairs! I'm so ugly!, all the things you tell your self when you feel less than peppy! Well after a late night talk with my wonderful husband, who spent the entire conversation reassuring me that he loved me and that he would never leave me for some hot little number named Shirley with perky boobs and a flat stomach. Before I went to bed I thought I would stand before the mirror and make myself find at least one thing that didn't suck about me, it took me a couple of times going in and out of the bathroom to remember why I was staring at my self, and then I thought "I like my skin."

Well the universe has a funny sense of humor because the next morning I woke up with a GIANT RED ZIT in the dead center of my forehead!!!!! I surrender, you win!!!! lol (p.s. I am feeling better this week, I am not any thinner but I have found that if I just wear yoga pants all the time I don't notice as much tee hee hee)

Flashback Friday: Vegas Baby??

2010-05-28T23:28:00.011-06:00

So the kids and I have been enjoying our time here in Vegas, missing Daddy however, but enjoying the unusually cool temperatures, seeing friends and spending time with my parents/"Gram" & "Pa" (according to James).

This whole "growing up" and moving away thing has given me this whole new perspective, not sure what perspective that is, but it's new. I love getting to come and visit the things I enjoy about Vegas, and then I can go home to Colorado. It makes me sad that the city I grew up in and loved growing up in, has changed so drastically in such a short amount of time. In the past I have described it as a cancer that started in a few small areas and has now spread to much of the Valley. The schools, the neighborhoods, the family oriented activities that were a huge part of this city are all on the fritz!!

Growing up in Vegas was great, I had lots of friends, loved my school and ward, and all the fun things we could do as a family i.e miniature golf, hike at Red Rock, Valley of Fire and Mt. Charleston, go to the lake, the movies, Warm Springs, Wet n' Wild, outdoor plays at Spring Mt. Ranch. Now all but, I believe one location for Miniature golf have closed, same with Wet n' Wild, and the last I had heard so did Warm Springs (a natural warm spring). The Strip rid itself of most of the family friendly hotels, and hang outs, everywhere I look there is graffiti, and trash just dumped on the side of the road. What the heck happened to this once great city?

Please don't misunderstand me, there are still so many wonderful people here and there are pockets of Vegas that are better than others, but it just feels like the life has been sucked out! I know that the economy has not helped, and in fact, it has exacerbated the "cracks" that were being formed years before the "crash"! More and more of my friends are trying to eventually leave Vegas, and it makes me wonder will there come a day that I won't have much reason to come back and visit?

I lived in Vegas for 24 years of my life and I look back on those years and smile from all the amazing things I did while growing up here. It saddens me to see it this way, and who knows, maybe it will make a come back down the road. (oh and as soon as I can get some pictures uploaded I will post the fun we have been having.)

10 Signs You Have The "MOM" Syndrome

2010-05-25T19:31:00.006-06:00

There are ten very important signs to look for when considering the possibility you might have a case of the "Mom" syndrome. If you in deed have even a few of these symptoms, while there is no cure, you are not alone!!

10. You see a mess where no one else does!!

9. You stay up late just to have some quiet time.

8. You rarely eat warm food at dinner because; "I need catchup! I need a spoon! I need more etc etc etc.! Can you cut my food for me?"

7. You know the location of every fast food joint with a play area!

6. You find solace in hearing your friends issues with their own children and seeing their house a little messy!!

5. Taking a bath or using the toilet alone is like visiting a foreign country, it rarely happens.

4. Your favorite clothes are the ones that hide stuff the best i.e stains, tears, snot and they stretch a little!

3. Having time to blow dry your hair is a luxury.

2. You find your self cleaning up even while using the lavatory.

1. Discussions about labor& delivery, puke, poop, stretch marks & potty training are common place!

Bonus Symptom** The last time you watched your favorite T.V. show uninterrupted was when Silver Spoons was on television!!!

****If you answered yes to any of these you might be dealing with a case of the "MOM" syndrome and the best treatments are a night out with the girls, date nights with your husband or trips to Target without your kids!!!

Sunday Scripture: Hope

2010-05-23T20:51:00.003-06:00

Moroni 7:40
And again, my beloved brethren, I would speak unto you concerning hope. How is it that ye can attain unto faith, save ye shall have hope?

"Hope is the anchor of our souls. I know of no one who is not in need of hope—young or old, strong or weak, rich or poor. As the prophet Ether exhorted, “Wherefore, whoso believeth in God might with surety hope for a better world, yea, even a place at the right hand of God, which hope cometh of faith, maketh an anchor to the souls of men, which would make them sure and steadfast, always abounding in good works, being led to glorify God.”

James E. Faust (November 1999 Ensign)

Today I was fortunate to attend Stake Conference (a twice a year special meeting for about 6-8 wards) with my parents. My Dad was in the choir so just my mom and I sat together (children stayed home today), it was a wonderful meeting, filled with all the things I was needing to hear! All of the Bishop's wives were asked to speak and each of their talks were part of this masterful quilt, none of them assigned, all spoken from the spirit and it was amazing how they all blended together perfectly. My sweet friend Michelle spoke and the things she said touched me, she recalled the pain of losing her son shortly after he was born some years ago, and then the Hope that she was able to live on, knowing she would see him again. The reminder to hold on, even when life deals us a nasty blow, a difficult test or a road block, was very much needed in my life at this time.

I have had several things that have been weighing heavily on my mind recently. A close family member received some scary news related to their health and for me it felt like a stone to the head. It was difficult to be so far away so that is why I jumped in my car and came to Vegas, I wanted to feel some what useful and supportive. There was a minor surgery and things are looking hopeful.

Another heart ache I have is watching my parents, who have done nothing but help everyone around them for years, including but not limited to their children, extended family members, friends, strangers, neighbors, and anyone that stood in need. They are now feeling the EXTREME downturn of the economy, my father works in the Commercial Real Estate industry and has for 25 years, and has never seen it this bad before. I worry for them, I know that the Lord watches over them, yet the thought of them struggling is more painful than when we were out of a job. I truly know and understand that trials don't only come to those that are doing wrong, but it sure stinks when good people, trying to do the right things are handed a whopper and gosh darn I can't prevent it.

My mother tells me that everything will be OK, that "some how things will work out", and I wonder why she is comforting me. Where is that magic wand when I need it? Then today I was encouraged to have hope and to lean on the Lord, He has his eye on them and that there is a reason for this trial. Maybe He wants them to move closer to their amazing daughter that lives in Colorado, maybe!!?? :)

I want to bear my testimony that I know that through Christ there is Hope, there is reason to hold on and keep going. I know there are so many people in the same predicament as my parents but I know that through faith, prayer and doing what is right He will bless us beyond our comprehension. I know He loves me and watches over me and my family. I know that Thomas S. Monson is a true Prophet, that he is guided and directed by our Heavenly Father. I know the Book of Mormon to be a testament of Jesus Christ and by reading it I am able to feel the promptings of the Holy Ghost and that I grow closer to the Lord. I know these things to be true, there is NO DOUBT about it, it has been witnessed to me too many times in my life to think other wise. I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Happy Sunday

All my love

Flashback Friday: Someone Else's Flash

2010-05-21T13:52:00.005-06:00

Since I am far from my hard drive and since I lost another memory card to my Mom's printer/cf hook up, and all the pics I have taken since I have been in town, I must move on and therefore use someone else's "flashback".

Before

More Recently

I remember meeting Lindsay Lohan once at California Adventure, Lexi was so excited and was able to take a picture with her (at home). At the time she was a rising Disney Star, young and seemingly sweet. I feel sad for all these young ladies that are eaten up by fame, but at some point they need to take responsibility for their lives and make better choices.

Lemons

2010-05-17T11:21:00.004-06:00

I recently heard a most delightful sentiment, it went something like;

"When life gives you lemons, you have to squirt people in the eye."

I know in a perfect world we are supposed to make lemonade but don't you ever feel like doing that instead?? No. Well, I guess I am alone then.

Recently it seems as though many a lemon has been added to my basket, or to the baskets of those close to me. The first lemon is just a lemon and you deal, the next one is a bit more daunting and sour, and suddenly it seems I am up to my eye balls in Lemons!

Have I brought this upon myself because I have been cooking more with them or the fact that I am in love with the color yellow? Whatever the reason or the season, I wish that these Lemons would find a juicer!!

(forgive me for being ambiguous about all of this, but at this time I am not at liberty to discuss details)

Oh and the adventures of a 13 hour drive alone with 3 kids is about to be served :)

Flashback Friday: A little Nudge

2010-05-14T13:30:00.008-06:00

Today is the girls last day of school, school is not actually out until next Thursday, but we have a family Emergency and we will be headed to Vegas in the morning. Anyway, I was reflecting on the past school year and tears filled my eyes as I realized how perfectly placed the girls were into there perspective classrooms!!

The thought came to me that while all the things preceding our move to Colorado were difficult/stressful/sad/frustrating, they were set before us as a roadblock, not to hinder our progress but to draw our eye to another path. This new path has provided our family with opportunities, blessings, and joy, it was a little NUDGE from the Lord.

Before our move I had the distinct feeling that we needed to move for not only the job, but for the sake of our children. I wasn't sure why or which child, and today I realized that it had been especially for my girls. Grace was set in the most perfect Kindergarten class, her teacher has been so patient, so kind and truly provided a safe place for her to be each afternoon. Lexi has made so many friends and loves her teachers, she needed the change so much. She is happy and blossoming into such a great young women, I really find it mind boggling that she will be going into Middle School next year.

The Lord has blessed our family so much this past year, I know I have said this many times before but it's true and I can't let it go unnoticed and unappreciated.

(Lexi on the first day of school)

(Grace on the first day)

Just a couple days ago

First of all it is not right that Lexi's hair grows that quickly and Grace looks like a big kid now!!! What a great year they have had!!

(oh and as a side note I will be in Vegas for the next little while so if my Blog suffers my apologies in advance)

Happy Friday!

All My Love,

Sundays Scripture: Mothers

2010-05-09T11:43:00.012-06:00

John 19:26,27
26 When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the adisciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, bWoman, behold thy son!
27 Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy amother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.

Today is Mother's Day, I am the very blessed Mother of 3 wonderful children. I know that my most important responsibility in this life is to cherish and love these little ones that have been trusted in my care.

I am so grateful for my own Mother, for her example and love. I know of Christs love for me because he sent me to such an amazing Mother, He showed me His love through her and I pray that I might teach my children in the same way. Love you Mom!!!

How many Moms in there more advanced years do this in a skirt??!!

In the time I have spent being a Mom, I have found my greatest joys and also my greatest weaknesses and sorrows. I must admit that I reject my physical body on a daily basis as I scrutinize it in the mirror, but when my "natural" tendencies subside and I am able to see through my spiritual glasses, I recognize each stretch mark as space for my babies to grow, and widened hips to bring them here. I am blessed to be healthy enough to carry them for 40 weeks (or 43 as Grace found out), my body is always strong while pregnant and I need to appreciate it more.

My Heavenly Father sent me the children that are perfect for me, I have learned so many lessons from each one of them;

Lexi has taught me loyalty and strength, loyalty because she stands by me no matter how bad I might mess up as a parent, and strength because I realized how strong I was in being a single parent in her early years. Of course there are many other things that she has contributed to my education but those two stand out.

Grace gives me the lesson in patience and unconditional love every single day. No matter the nervous break down, I feel peace and calm much of the time I am working with her. I know that it comes from my Heavenly Father, for patience does not come easy for me. Grace has so many struggles and for whatever the reason, the Lord has provided me with the love and ability to walk with her through them. I am so blessed.

James has given me the gift of learning to be more relaxed and affectionate. I have always loved to hug and kiss on them, but Buddy will come running up to me after just moments of separation (as in me going into the other room) and wrap his arms around my leg. He loves me to just sit and hold him and watch Go Diego Go, and somehow in my old age I am able to relax and just enjoy these sweet times. I feel more capable as a parent now, than I ever have, and I look forward to every day that I am able to stay home with my children.

Happy Mother's Day to all of the Women who have spent anytime nurturing, loving, holding, cuddling, teaching or serving a child. You don't have to have children of your own to be a Mother and I am so grateful for all the family and friends who have "Mothered" my children along the way.

Happy Sunday

All my Love,

The Effects of An HGTV Obsession

2010-05-03T17:20:00.016-06:00

It's true I am slightly addicted to HGTV! If I am watching the tv then most likely that is the channel I am tuned in to!! The problem when I watch it so much is that I get ideas for all the things I want to do/change/fix/create in my own house. I wanted a little change in the master bedroom, but I didn't have a big budget so I created new throw pillows from a shower curtain and a little bit of scrap fabric. I painted a white dresser, moved a few things around, took some stuff down and added a few small inexpensive details (as in 75 % of clearance at places like Michael's, Ross and Target) So here are pictures of some of the changes.

BEFORE

AFTER (not quite done)

BEFORE

AFTER

The Next photos are of pillows/curtains/pictures that have been added to these rooms

I made the above pillow and added some new pictures on the wall

I painted the little table and made the pillow

This pillow and two others were added to the couch

The curtains were some pre-made ones that I had and I just added fabric along the bottom in order to unify them and make them long enough for the window!!

These are picture walls that I put up (the above wall are pictures of all the military family members I have and old maps from WWII)

The Bully Part 3: Happy Ending!!!

2010-05-01T16:44:00.002-06:00

Here is the 3rd and final chapter in the bully saga! I am doing much better on all accounts!! The last couple weeks have been crazy and I haven't had much time to pee let alone blog so my apologies for the long wait!

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Happy Birthday My Grace!

2010-04-25T10:20:00.004-06:00

Today is my Gracie's Birthday!! I can't believe that 6 years has gone by and she has only had stitches ONCE (knocking on wood now)!! To be honest I try to forget the last few weeks of my pregnancy with Grace because I was 3 weeks overdue and a total NUT CASE by the time I had her but I suppose that was the warm up for her arrival!!

Grace is funny, silly, imaginative, wild, thoughtful, loving, affectionate, passionate and so many other amazing qualities. My life would have been way too boring without Grace, she humbled me, strengthened me and just plain toughened me up in just a few short years! When you are blessed with a child like Grace, everyday is eventful, mind twisting and sunny! Her moods are vast and her senses are tuned like a cheetah stalking its prey, one moment she is quiet, gentle and concentrated and the next the beast is released and duck and cover is your only option!

The Lord has something fantastic planned for Grace and I feel so honored to have been chosen to have a front row seat, although sometimes I have to close my eyes. I love being her Mother, even when she is testing all human boundaries and my patience! Happy Birthday Grace

Flashback Friday! The Power of One!!

2010-04-23T23:39:00.008-06:00

(Me at 18)

Oprah has her talk show.

Michael Jordan, the basketball court.

Julia Roberts, the movie screen.

Amelia Earhart, the sky.

Marylin, the WCW Wrestling Event.

I was just a white girl with a dream really, and never in my wildest imagination thought I could reach it so young at just 18 years old. Don't ask how or why, but I attended many Professional Wrestling events in my day, and there was one that will forever stand out in my mind. It was shortly after graduating High School in 1997 watching two grown men in spanks, bounce off ropes and tackle each other when the match took a turn for the desperate and I suddenly shouted "Bite His Ear!", it was just weeks after the Tyson vs. Holyfield fight and the words slipped easily from my lips. The people around me chuckled and then as if I were the director standing before them they all began shouting "Bite his ear, Bite his ear!" It grew and grew and next thing you know the entire MGM Grand arena was shouting "Bite his Ear!!" It was a moment that only happens in movies, it was then I knew I was meant for greater things! The people in front and behind me were throwin me high fives for my addition to the match, the wrestlers were forced to acknowledge the crowd, I don't remember what was said, but I remember the pride in knowing I had the Power to influence those around me with my words!!

I realize that this all must seem silly, but you found yourself reading every word didn't you??? Hey and I still know some moves, so don't mess!!!

P.S I have some great news on the "Saga of the Bully" so stay tuned!! :)

Love to you and Happy Friday!!

Round 2 with the Bullies

2010-04-19T20:14:00.002-06:00

So here is round 2 along with a quick recap of the weekend!! :) Please notice my glamorous appearance, next time I will give lessons on makeovers "How to look like you just got out of bed at 4:00pm."

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Love to you

Sunday Scripture: Forgiveness

2010-04-18T21:13:00.004-06:00

D&C 64:10-11

10 I, the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men.

11 And ye ought to say in your hearts—let God judge between me and thee, and reward thee according to thy deeds.

“Is there someone in your life who perhaps needs forgiveness? Is there someone in your home, someone in your family, someone in your neighborhood who has done an unjust or an unkind or an unchristian thing? All of us are guilty of such transgressions, so there surely must be someone who yet needs your forgiveness.”

Jeffery R. Holland

The lesson of forgiveness is perhaps one of the most important lessons we receive has people. I know that I have been faced with this, at times challenging commandment from the Lord more than a few times in my life. Sometimes it seems less difficult to forgive and other times I struggle to let go of frustration, anger and heartache which comes at the hands, words or actions of others. I know that if I allow the Lord to handle "it" then my burdens will be lifted and in some instances it has taken a long time for me to truly forgive. I remember hearing once that if "Just leave room in your heart, and when the times comes that you can forgive, forgive."

Tonight I am working on this one.

Happy Sunday

All My Love

Mom 1..........Bully 0!!!!

2010-04-14T09:40:00.004-06:00

I decided to share this next story via video

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

I would love to hear any thoughts on how best to deal with this situation, maybe your child has gone through something like this or perhaps you are a teacher or you have some insight on what I should do.

Oh on a side note the dresser behind me is a sneak peak at my newly decorated room :)

Love and Thanks

Forgetting the Flash!!! Bad Parenting Moment #4762

2010-04-09T17:44:00.005-06:00

There have been many moments of bad parenting, well, maybe not bad, just the "seriously you can't take your eye off of them for a moment", moment!

This afternoon James and I were out front putting a few flowers into our flower pots on the front porch, James was playing in the car with the windows down and listening to music while I was placing the flowers. I turned my back for 3 min, maybe, when I hear "Mom!, Me!" his way of saying "Mom look at me!" I turn around and this is what I find!!!!!!!

I could NOT believe my eyes! I mean he has been doing some "stuff" lately but this takes the cake!!! I had to grab my camera (that was in my purse in the front seat) and take a picture so Jimmy would believe me. Then I swiftly removed him from the roof of my van!! I HAVE NO IDEA how he managed to climb up there, let a lone so quick and without falling! Sheesh, I swear this boy is out to prove his monkeydom or something!!

The Hunt!

2010-04-06T13:12:00.018-06:00

Last Wednesday my AMAZING and Thoughtful friend Kari organized an Egg hunt for the kids in the ward. We all met at a park nearby and put out our own kids marked eggs, (side note, Lexi and I had marked all of ours but when we got to the park the names had ALL rubbed off, so annoying!!) OK, back to the event, the kids were beyond anxious to get out there and find their eggs, so after a little instruction, they were off!!

(I am small and cute so I need a head start )

EYE ON THE PRIZE!! There was no distracting little Sophie from the challenge at hand!!!

I asked James to look at the camera, he said "No"

(Kari & Soph having a little lunch)

(and a little treat)

(My sweet friend Miriam and her girls)

My old friend (she's not old, I have just known her for a very long time), Rachel and her girls, who were not interested in a photo op, but Rachel always looks SMOKIN!!

So I waited until they didn't know I was there (sneaky sneaky, I am)

Even though Lexi was busted up and I was a basket case, (no really I was), trying to help them all at the same time, it was a great reason to get out of the house and the kids had a BLAST!!

I WANT I WANT I WANT!!

2010-04-05T09:28:00.000-06:00

A BABY!! Why you ask???

Because of this.....

this.....

this....

this......

this.....

this....

this...

and this...

Any more questions???

No I am not Expecting ( I wish)

Sunday Scripture: He Lives

2010-04-04T19:47:00.004-06:00

John 11:24-25

24 Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.

25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:

I am grateful for the Spring, for Easter, for this time in which we have to remember the sacrifice that was made for us, for all of us, by our older brother Jesus Christ. I know He lives and loves me, and I pray that I might live up to His example. I know that I am not perfect, but with Him the road is mapped out and if I trust in Him and have faith, He will walk with me, guide me and strengthen me.

Happy Easter

Happy Sunday

All My LOVE,

Flashback Friday!!! Uppers & Downers

2010-04-02T09:24:00.030-06:00

The last week with the Kelley's has been abundant with UPPERS & downers, mostly up, but how could we call it life if we didn't have the down along with it??!!

Last Thursday Lexi was leaving school to head to the bus when two boys were coming into the school pushed open the heavy metal door and it went right over the top of Lexis left foot!! She was only wearing flats so there was no protection for her foot and a big chunk was taken out of the skin!! ( YUCK, I can't really look at it) The nurse was off that day but the office staff made up for it and took really good care of her until I could arrive to pick her up. Long story short, she was doing pretty well until Wednesday of this week when it started to look infected so we took her to a medical clinic close to home (it stinks not having insurance). They were really great with her, cleaning the wound up and prescribing her some antibiotics to help the infection and taking an x-ray to check for a fracture, which there wasn't one. She is still on crutches and will be for a while longer while it heals, but she has been a trooper throughout the entire thing. I have missed her help with her siblings and around the house, and it has been a bummer to be hurt over Spring Break!! However it forced us to just relax and spend time at home with each other, and we have managed to come up with projects to work on here.

(The white stuff is medicine)

Speaking of projects, with the weather being absolutely PERFECT, and some fabulous finds on Craigslist I have been busy refinishing, rearranging and organizing many of the rooms in the house! The Spring Cleaning Bug has bitten and the itch has been ferocious, Monday I refinished both girls dressers and then attacked just about anything I could get my hands on with spray paint. I also started and finished some sewing projects, began the revamping of the Master bedroom, hung curtains in the living room, and continued organization of my office/guestroom/sewing room!!

Lexi's new dresser from Craigslist ($10), I had already removed the handles...

...to do this

(The finished product along side Graces' dresser from a thrift store for ($7), it was white)

My new favorite piece of furniture (Craigslist $40)

(Latest Baby blanket)

Whew I am tired just typing it!!

By Thursday I finished the overhauling of the girls room, and wanted to crawl into bed but instead I continued on with more sewing projects and spending some much needed time with the husband.

This week we also participated in an Easter Egg hunt and I had Young Women's on Wednesday evening. Jimmy has been working lots of hours on his website and other side projects, as well as hearing good things about the continued contract at the Base.

(James and Grace waiting and listening to the instructions)

Something very exciting for me, I have been offered the opportunity to write for an internet company, and get paid!!! The details are still be worked out but it looks like I will be able to do it in my "spare time" ha ha, and make a little extra spending money.

Don't worry, just in case you think I have it all together, this week has also been sprinkled with crying, fighting, tantrums, yelling and pure exhaustion not to mention the kids have been acting up as well!! LOL

(My Fantastic new hat that I won from Sew Sanity)

The Master Bedroom is still in the works but I can't wait to finish cause I am already in....

Sunday Scripture: In the Lords Time

2010-03-28T15:50:00.013-06:00

(I chose this picture because it reminds me of the Lords timing in all things)

Doctrine and Covenants 64: 31-31

31 And behold, I, the Lord, declare unto you, and my words are sure and shall not fail, that they shall obtain it.

32 But all things must come to pass in their time.

I have had a lot on my mind lately, most of it related to what the Lord has in store for our family. If someone had asked me 3 years ago if I ever saw us living in Colorado, I would have answered with a resounding, NO. I had absolutely no desire to live in the snow or near the snow, in fact living in Colorado was the farthest thing from my mind. However I was EXTREMELY interested in living in Texas (still wouldn't mind it), I had actually been somewhat fixated on going there for some time. Spending hours, weeks, ok years, searching for jobs for Jimmy, before he was without one, looking at homes online, researching the schools, weather, neighborhoods, everything. So when Jimmy lost his job, naturally I thought "Well, that's settled, we are to move to Texas." The Lord had other plans for us and after time on my knees and in the temple I knew that my assignment was to follow my husband. I was a little annoyed because, you see, I was hoping that my "wanting" to go to Texas would be enough for the Lord to provide the way there, but as I learned I was receiving a lesson in not only the Lords plan for us, but also to rely on my husbands inspirations and promptings like I never had before.

I am beyond grateful to my Heavenly Father for allowing me the opportunity to see a side of Jimmy that I had yet to see. Jimmy is my hero, he is one of the strongest people I know, he has been through so many things in his life, I know that the plan for him is great and being chosen to stand at his side is the greatest blessing in my life. I lean on him when my burdens seem too heavy and because he leans on the Lord, our foundation is firm.

(picture courtesy Candice Simpson of Elegant Images)

(picture courtesy of Conrad Clayton Photography)

We are yet again faced with the possibility of Jimmy not having a job. For the last month we have been praying that the contract in which we thought was secure (then found out it wasn't), will be renewed, we pray that the Lords plan is for us to stay where we are. What we are hearing is promising, but we won't know for sure until the contracted is signed, which who knows when that will be. Our only constant is knowing that the Lord will lead and guide us, He has his eye upon us and we are open to His will and journey for us.

(picture courtesy of my tripod)

Is This My Life??!!! (Cause if it is, I'll Take it)

2010-03-25T12:11:00.027-06:00

The weather here in the big CO is not boring!!! We went from playing ball in the backyard and family walks, to a Snow Day (no school, no work) in a matter of hours, as in 24!!

This was Monday Evening, we were all out in our backyard playing and then we went for a walk around the neighborhood!! I love days like this!

Tuesday Afternoon it started to rain and then the snow fell and fell and fell

Wednesday Morning we woke up to a winter wonderland!!

Since Jimmy didn't have to go to the base and the kids didn't have school we bundled up and headed down to the park to have some fun in the snow! It was a beautiful day, the storm had passed and it was warm and sunny, I've decided that I love days like this too!!!

Being from Las Vegas I figured my expertise in Snow Man building was needed!! (Jimmy wasn't interested in helping, just taking pics of me doin the work, Pansy!)

No I don't have Monster sized hands, I borrowed Jimmy's gloves :)

SO WHAT IF MY BEDROOM LOOKS LIKE THIS.........

My Front Room Like this..........

And My Office/sewing room/spare room like this...........

I Don't Usually

2010-03-22T13:29:00.007-06:00

beep..beep...beep..beep....... I interrupt your scheduled program to bring you this urgent message...........

I don't typically use my blog to express my political opinions but with recent events in Washington I can't just let it go by without saying my piece.

"America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves."
Abraham Lincoln

How unfortunate that our freedoms are being taken away a little at a time and so many people are blinded by his "celebrity" they don't see the "leprosy" spreading through our country!! When did

More Government Control = "A Good Change" ????

IS everyone aware that this "Health care Reform" doesn't apply to Congress or the Unions???? hmmm I find that quite interesting, don't you??

C'mon people stand on your own two feet!!!!!

beep...beep...beep...beep

OK you can all return to your otherwise scheduled programs.

Sunday Scripture: Moral Courage

2010-03-21T20:14:00.005-06:00

D&C 84:88

And whoso receiveth you, there I will be also, for I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up.

I haven't served a full time mission, I have never had to choose between the things in which I believe and my family and I have not faced eviction from my home due to my faith, yet everyday I am tested and tried to make correct decisions.

I was lucky/blessed to have been born with a natural stubbornness and forthcoming attitude. Some might not see that as being lucky, but for me it has served me well in instances when I could have been persuaded to do wrong but because I am stubborn I withstood those temptations. Have I always made all the right choices, no, that goes without saying, I think.?.

I believe that many of our true tests are not going to be when all eyes are watching, but perhaps in the moments when we think no one will know. I have experienced first hand, as well as watched family and friends make what seems as one harmless choice turn into a downward spiral that led to sorrow, pain, frustration, fear, and unforeseen consequences for years to come.

It can be a most difficult road back, but it begins with just one right choice and then another, until the path between right and wrong no longer seems blurry. The ultimate right choice is accepting the Lords help and assistance in your life, for when we have Him the line is drawn clearly and we will more easily know where we must stand.

There can not be any amount of teetering, when you begin mingling with even small amounts of dishonesty and moral filth, there is no way to come out unscathed. Dancing with the devil for even one dance will leave you with swollen toes and a lingering foul scent.

As the Wives, Husbands, Mothers and Fathers we must give our children the example of what is right, we have to walk that walk, otherwise they will see through our words and begin defining for themselves what they believe to be right.

Everyday I pray that I might be guided, strengthened, and encouraged by my Heavenly Father, sometimes that means I am putting one foot in front of the other, other days the path is more clear and I can run for miles in the right direction. I work hard to be honest, kind, patient, happy, patient, loving, forgiving, patient, trustworthy, humble, patient and patient. Asking for help from my Heavenly Father is essential in my efforts, for with out Him I would have been mulch years ago, trodden by cows out to pasture.

"Come Follow Me"

By Dan Freed

I wanted to leave you with a little inspiration and examples where I made both bad and good choices

Hiked up shorts, full side ponytail, rolled sleeves, obviously the WRONG choice!!

Matching pink off the shoulder sweater and corduroys, fashionable charm necklace, appropriate side ponytail, posing with a tree.........clearly the CORRECT choice

Happy Sunday

All My love

Going Green!! but Not the Tree Hugging Kind

2010-03-18T18:43:00.015-06:00

Well with the last name Kelley one might think there was some Irish, but actually to make a long story short, there isn't a speck of Irish in our family!! The last name Kelley started out as O'Kelley but somewhere along the lines someone forgot the 'O', any who, Jimmy was not born with the last name Kelley, he adopted it later (very very condensed version). So, we are the Kelley's, which is an Irish name but we are not Irish!
Anyway since my favorite color in the world is Kelly Green, my last name is as previously stated, Kelley, and my most beloved childrens cereal is Lucky Charms, St. Patricks Day really should be my favorite holiday, it's not, but it should be! It has been a few years since I last made a "deal" about St. Patty's Day but I was in the mood, so I went to work planning and cooking a GREEN Dinner!

BRAIN BREAK
I must confess that I wish I had the energy and will to make more fun out of the holidays, once upon a time I made special dinners for all of them but then I got old and grumpy and stopped. So this really was a treat for the family, most nights they are lucky to not be poisoned!

The dinner consisted of Pasta with Pesto Sauce, green jello with bananas, green colored apple dip, green veggies, pickles, and green rice crispy treats for dessert! I was so happy that the kids and Jimmy enjoyed the Green theme and they have now assigned me the task of doing dinner in color themes from now on, not gonna happen, but it's a fun idea (maybe I will on occasion).

I was proud of myself for being the good wife/mother yesterday and doing something fun, just for the fun of it. I know my limits people, yesterday was a good day!

(Getting ready to head to school)

All three looking happy

James starting to get annoyed with the camera

James, completely annoyed with the camera

(and I was starting to think my boobs were getting small, until I saw this pic)

Me and My Baby

Identity Crisis

2010-03-17T08:49:00.004-06:00

One would think that at 31 I would know who I am, but alas, I still wobble a bit now and then. So I have once again changed the name of my blog, I was gonna actually name it this a while ago but then I watched a show and thought I would try to be philosophical and deep and named it "roots", but all I kept thinking of was the fact that my hair needed to be colored, so I followed my initial thought and went back to "Losing my marbles". I frequently use that term and it also reminds me of Toodles from the movie HOOK, so there you go!!

Tide Me Over

2010-03-16T13:09:00.002-06:00

When I am feeling blue I try to think of things that make me happy or give me a little smile, you know "things to tide me over" until the Sun comes out again!!

Wearing my favorite color, Kelly Green (of course)

Watching a little Ellen

Vacuuming with this pretty little thing (yes, it's true it makes me happy)

Making salsa for my husband with this fantastic invention

Applying a bunch of this to my lashes always makes me feel better

Covering my grays with this makes me look younger and feel refreshed

Taking pictures with this brings me joy

Listening to them makes me want to sing

And sometimes I like to dance like this ( it reminds me of home)

All my love

I WON!!!!!!!

2010-03-15T12:56:00.003-06:00

I NEVER WIN ANYTHING and YET I WON!!!! Oh yeah!!!! I entered a contest on my friends blog (to launch her etsy site) and I WON the above hat!!! Go check their stuff out, they have some very cute things!!

This is the best day of my life!!! (ok so that is a bit dramatic, but who cares)

Sunday Scripture: Tender Mercies of the Lord

2010-03-14T15:31:00.005-06:00

1Nephi 1:20

And when the Jews heard these things they were angry with him; yea, even as with the prophets of old, whom they had cast out, and stoned, and slain; and they also sought his life, that they might take it away. But behold, I, Nephi, will show unto you that the tender mercies of the Lord are over all those whom he hath chosen, because of their faith, to make them mighty even unto the power of deliverance.

I pray that my intent is felt in these words today. For most of my life I have struggled with depression, it has nearly consumed me at times and yet through my Heavenly Father I am still here battling the demons that feel closer to the service more recently. I know that I am not the only one that has been dealt this hand, and I strive every day not to allow it to overtake me. I know with all that I am that the Lord has delivered me from the pain of depression multiple times and He will again, I don't know the whens or whys, but He will. I trust in Him, in His will, this is my trial and with Him I can endure. If your prayers might be offered in my behalf, I ask of them now. Even if you do not believe the same as me, I would appreciate it.

Humbled and Happy Sunday

All my love

Jaaaaames!!! Where are You?

2010-03-12T15:11:00.007-07:00

James gets bored when it is just he and I during the day. Recently he has been testing out some new hobbies, I was doing the dishes and buddy was helping for a few min before heading up stairs, I thought he went to watch the movie I had started for him earlier. After a few min I went to check on him and this is what I found.

It is all COVERED in soap and he filled the sink up with water, this is after I pulled the plug.

This is what he used to do, aww the good ole days

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Flashback Friday! New Beginnings

2010-03-12T13:25:00.007-07:00

9 years ago this month I Graduated from Aesthetics school! I can't believe it has been that long, at times it feels like yesterday! I was a young, divorced/single Mom, hoping this would be a new start for me and my little girl. Going to school was the longest 4 months of my life, it was Tues-Sat, 7:30am-4:30pm, stuck in a small room with 20 other women, but it truly was a blessing. Becoming an Aesthetician gave me confidence, independence and the ability to support my sweet baby working just a few days a week! While I no longer have to go to a "job" outside the home, I will always be thankful for the education, and the opportunities that came from my years in the "working" world.

I would have gone more insane without these 2 ladies!! (great friends to this day)

Some of the women in my class, we came from all walks of life! (Oh and I got to change into a different shirt for graduation)