Monday, December 31, 2012

Saying Good-bye to 2012


As 2012 comes to a close, I find myself as most of us do reflecting on the year.  It was a year of firsts and discoveries and “Am I the only one who thinks this way?”
As you look back do you ever wonder did I do enough? What would I do different? Maybe, next time, and Thank Goodness.

I discovered Downton Abbey thanks to my daughter Courtney.  I discovered a love for  working out and playing the harp.  I rediscovered a favorite pastime of reading.  I experienced a first of taking swim lessons with my daughter Sarah and enjoying doing laps.  I discovered Red Beet Eggs while in Pennsylvania (these are the best).  I discovered Naked Basics Palette by Urban Decay. I found an acupuncturist who has saved my life (thank you Heather for recommending her).  I discovered KC Donuts (absolutely the best donuts ever).  And that I LOVE paper straws. 
 

I discovered the charm and peace of the Amish country and fell in love with the covered bridges, the stay at an old farmhouse and the best cinnamon rolls made by Florence,  sitting on a front porch at night only hearing the crickets chirp, and sleeping on sheets that have been hung out to dry on a clothesline (so nice). 


 
 I discovered that a dream of wanting nothing more than to be a stay home mom has it challenges just like working full time.  Some days I wondered what I did all day - That timing is everything and sometimes schedules are not necessary. 

I discovered a lot about myself and my family.  I discovered that I am braver than I thought and weaker than I imagined.  That being in the moment is more important than getting to the end.  That spending time appreciating the little things matters because these happen all the time.  That knowing deep within for the first time I feel as if I have come home.  That mending bridges and reconnecting and putting pride aside do more for your well-being than vitamins.  I have discovered that slowing down is best for your mental and physical health. 
 
 
I have discovered that there are many things I want to do, can do, and will do if I allow my heart to guide me.  That some things are best let go of……
I have discovered that life is full of challenges such as broken cars and appliances, disappointments, heartaches, and feeling of doubt.

Through 2012 the ups and downs I have made some wonderful friends and cherish the old friendships and found there is something good and charming in each person.  I have watched and observed and marveled in the strength and courage of the woman around me.
Though life is never easy and definitely full of trying times which only make us stronger I look forward to 2013 with the wonders and discoveries that have yet to be experienced, to those whose path will cross mine and the things I will learn, the blessings, the trials and the ability to meet it with a courageous heart.   
In those quiet moments between the movement from one experience to the next I cherish the love that has been shown unto me and the loving God who opens my eyes and brings into my life not just what I want but exactly what I need (even though I may not know it). 

 Happy New Year to you all

Baptism - It's Great to be Eight

Between birthdays, Christmas, and trips we also scheduled into the busy month of December a Baptism.  This was such a special day with family and friends -- special talks  by her Primary Teacher and her big Sister.  Music by Cindy on the harp, played Sarah's favorite primary songs.  The best part- a room full of support for this sweet little girl.  Later that evening ---  Sarah memory for the day:----   "David (her brother-in-law) asked me earlier if I felt different and I said, No.  But, mamma, afterwards I felt  really clean." 


Program from  CardsEtcetera Etsy Shop
http://www.etsy.com/shop/CardsEtcetera




Programs from MeckMom etsy shop

 



Cupcakes and Truffles from Dough Girl Bakery
https://www.facebook.com/DoughGirlBakery



She loves Grandpa
 
Big Sister and husband David were in town for Christmas and more importantly the Baptism 
 



Friday, December 14, 2012

Five DIY easy/simple Christmas Crafts and December $25 Giveaway

Sarah and I spent a week visiting Courtney in Idaho and those college girls are intense and amazing crafters.  We had a craft night and the next day Sarah said, "Can we NOT craft today?"  Me - "Why?"  -- Sarah - "Because no pays attention to me when you craft."    There is a craft store in Rexburg called "Porters."  They display a completed craft and then on the shelf below are all the supplies to make the craft.  I could spend hours in there.  Their website has many projects with instructions.  Check them out at: http://portersonline.com/

Here are my five inspired DIY very easy/simple Christmas Crafts

Christmas Give-away -
$25.00 Michaels Giftcard to hold your own craft day
What do you want for Christmas? 
 (I want a camera and lessons on how to use it)
Drawing held on December 31st



Epsom Salt, cranberries, limes, oranges, garland
String of lights and tie two pieces of red tule into a middle knot
Santa Block
pom pom garland

Yarn and Twine - made in Rexburg at our Craft Night



Ikea lantern, christmas balls, ribbon





 












Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Try a GLOSSYBOX






 
Received my GLOSSYBOX in the mail today.  Each month you receive 5 travel size beauty products and a small magazine.  These are products that you may not normally purchase.  Gives you a way to try out the product for a minimal cost.  So far -- I like it......you can subscribe to as little as three months.  Check it out at glossybox.com





This month: Hand cream, toning face cream, hair repair, solid perfume and pencil eyeliner