You Don't Want To Miss This!

My friend and local composer, Rob Gardner, is premiering his latest work, Lamb of God, next month and you really have to come. It is a glorious combination of music (soloists, 200-voice choir, full orchestra) and scriptural text about the Savior's atonement and resurrection. Great for people of all faiths.

The performances are September 10th and 11th at Gammage Auditorium. Tickets are shockingly cheap, starting at just $6. And until tomorrow you can buy your tickets at Spire Music and they will pick up and mail your tickets to you free of charge, saving you the "convenience" fee that Gammage normally charges to mail your tickets. You can also purchase tickets directly from Gammage's box office or at Ticketmaster.

From a personal standpoint I can tell you that Rob's music has changed my life. I have experienced some of my most powerful spiritual moments while participating in and listening to his music. I can assure you that this performance will increase your testimony and understanding of the Savior and His atonement.

Don't miss your chance to see this remarkable performance. It's not likely to come around again any time soon. Bring your friends and family. I'll see you there!

p.s. Click on the picture to visit the website where you can hear clips of the music.

It's All About Control

This is for my friend Jenny. She challenged her readers earlier in the week to do a post for Mother's Day stating one weakness (and what you plan to do to improve) and one strength about yourself as a mother.

I have been thinking about this all week and still find myself not quite sure what to write. Actually the weakness came to my mind rather quickly. I have always known my need to improve in this area, and while I think I am making strides, I have a long way to go. I am terrible at teaching my children the value of work. You know the families whose kids all work individually and together to make the household run? That is not my family. Giving up control is not something I do well. Those of you who know me are not surprised by this statement. Although maybe you're surprised that I can actually admit it about myself. :) I find it would be faster and ultimately better for me to do the chores myself than to have my children do them. But what does that teach them? A whole slew of things that are the opposite of what I want to instill in them. I have, however, made adjustments recently that are a step in the right direction here. They are now responsible for cleaning their bathroom and room every Saturday. I really need to start having them do the dishes once or twice a week but haven't committed yet. Part of the issue with that one is the forethought that it takes. I find myself wanting to make sure the dishwasher is empty and all the big pots and pans are already done before they can do the dishes. What am I saying? I have a ten-year-old. She should be able to empty the dishwasher, right? See, I'm terrible at this.

Interestingly, the part of my personality that creates my weakness also helps me be good at something. In thinking about what to share that I do well I kept having this same thing come to mind. Then I kept pushing it away trying to think of something else because I'm not perfect at it. I realized there is only one thing I do perfectly as a mother: love my children. That I do without even thinking about it, just like you. So I decided to share this thing I think I do well, but not perfectly. Consistent discipline. Mind you there are times I am too lazy to follow through, but typically my children know that when I say something I mean it. This has landed me in some difficult spots as a mother. There have been times that my children have missed out on something that they really want to do because they didn't complete what they needed to beforehand. However, it has greatly decreased the negotiating and bartering in our house, which only leads to frustration on both parts. I do have to admit I was much better at this with Grace than Jenna. My little Jenna sure tests my fortitude sometimes but I think we are all better for the consistency. Even writing this now reminds me to recommit to making my words mean something. It is one of those things that takes constant vigilance. There are moments that I think maybe I was just blessed with nearly perfect children and I'm fooling myself into thinking that I had a part in molding their behavior. Actually, I think it's probably a combination. So thanks to good parents and professionals who taught me well, and thanks to Heavenly Father for sending me the three most perfect daughters!

Building a Palace

As we near Mother's Day I find that I have a lot of things tumbling around in my head. It's interesting how your perspective changes as you age and experience things. Mother's Day three years ago found me in a pretty dark, yet still hopeful place as we prayed and wished for a baby. Two years ago, I was thrilled with the joy of a successful in vitro process. It was just a month later that my dear friend lost her sweet baby. And just a month after that my world came crashing down with a miscarriage. That summer forever changed my feelings about Mother's Day. Last year, I was gratefully enjoying my growing belly and anxiously awaiting our little angel. This year, I feel so blessed to be snuggling my miracle baby and yet can't help thinking about my friends whose Mother's Days have been forever altered by the loss of a baby. It's amazing what a few years can bring into your life. How grateful I am that the gospel can give me eternal perspective on these experiences. I don't know how one can live without the knowledge that families are eternal and I'm so thankful that I don't have to. In addition, I know that the adversity in our lives can be meaningful. It's not fun, but if we allow Him, the Lord will use our tragedies, as well as our triumphs, to transform us into the people we are meant to be. I found this quote on another website today that describes my thoughts about this much better than I could ever say. It is by C.S. Lewis.

"Imagine yourself as a living house. God comes in to rebuild that house. At first, perhaps, you can understand what He is doing. He is getting the drains right and stopping the leaks in the roof and so on: you knew that those jobs needed doing and so you are not surprised. But presently, He starts knocking the house about in a way that hurts abominably and does not seem to make sense. What on earth is He up to? The explanation is that He is building quite a different house from the one you thought of--throwing out a new wing here, putting on an extra floor there, running up towers, making courtyards. You thought you were going to be made into a decent little cottage: but He is building a palace."

While I would not likely choose the difficult things that have happened in my life, I know it is God's way of tutoring and leading me, and that it is possible only through the grace and power of the Savior's atonement. The adversities of my past Mother's Days have made me a better mother today and I aim to enjoy this one.

The Help

I love to read. It is one of my passions. I feel like my life is seriously lacking if I'm not enjoying a great book. But it is not very often that I come across a book that I love as much as this one. I finished yesterday and feel like I'm mourning the loss of great friends. The characters are so endearing, funny, courageous that you can't help but love them. And the story is captivating. Easily one of my all-time favorites!

True Love

I love Valentine's Day. I'm not really sure why. It certainly isn't because I am married to an ultra-romantic man who makes this day full of wonder. (Love you anyway, honey.) Maybe it's because I have a serious sweet tooth or because I love pink and red? No idea. I do know one thing I really love about Valentine's Day--my mom's sugar cookies. She bakes the most delicious cookies once a year. Yep, we have to wait all year for this one day when she will fill her kitchen with cookies. And this year my mom is half a world away and will not be making cookies for me. I will certainly try to uphold the tradition but no one can make them like she can. The picture at the top of this post looks just like the cookies my mom would make. Yum! But I also found this next picture that made me drool. How I wish my sugar cookies would look like that! I'm guessing that to look that good they certainly can't taste as delicious as mine. At least that's what I'm telling myself! Anyone want some cookies?

Harvest Time

I had no idea how rewarding it would be to have a garden. I love walking to the backyard to choose vegetables for dinner. My favorite thing has been the fresh cilantro but the girls thought these twisted carrots were pretty entertaining. Thanks Dad! I think I've found a new hobby.

Gratitude #2

Today I am especially grateful for my sweet children. It is truly a miracle to me that I am the mother to these amazing spirits. In the past several years I have come to realize how precious life is. I took for granted the blessing of having babies and raising my children. I know many people, several that are near and dear to me, who no longer get to raise their children in this life. My heart breaks for them. I cried today as I snuggled Claire and thought about my friends who don't get to snuggle their babies anymore. I know their babies are being well cared for and will be with their families again, which leads me to my gratitude for the plan of salvation. How thankful I am to know that Heavenly Father has a plan for each of us and that we can be with our families for eternity, even if not in this life (which can feel like an eternity when you are missing a loved one). And there really is no way to adequately express thanks for the atonement of Jesus Christ that makes all of this possible. So if you are one of those friends who has lost a child, know that I think of and pray for you often. And if you are one of the lucky ones to have all of your children still with you, hug them a little tighter and kiss them a little more today.

Boutique Today and Tomorrow

Don't forget our wholesale boutique tonight and tomorrow (details in the previous post). Here are a few pictures of some of the things you can buy for cheap! And for you crafty people we are selling our fabric as well. And Amy will be selling her delicious cinnamon rolls. See you soon!

A Green Thumb. . . Sort Of

I have never been good at growing things but once we moved into my parents' house I decided maybe I'd try to grow a garden. My dad has the perfect set-up in his backyard with raised planter beds and a watering system. So I bugged my dad to help me plant one before he left. He pretty much did the whole thing while I watched and asked questions. A labor of love because he wouldn't even be here for the harvest! I have been diligently watering and fertilizing and things are actually growing! We have already used some of the herbs and beet greens and can't wait to eat some peas and carrots. Here are some pictures for my dad:




This picture obviously has nothing to do with my garden but it was such a cute picture of Papa and Claire that I couldn't resist posting it.


P.S. Did anyone notice that Claire has a lamp growing out of her head in this picture?

Fainting Goats

This really is so silly but I needed a good chuckle this morning and this did it for me. Thought I'd share.

Need a Little Peace?

This video really moved me today so I thought I would share it. It is an excerpt from a talk given by Elder Enzio Busche (formerly of the Quorum of the Seventy) at a BYU devotional in 1996. It's a little long but worth the watch. Maybe it will speak to you too.

The Culture Pass

Some FANTASTIC money saving, culturally enlightening news for my Arizona pals...


Starting on April 1, it’s your ticket to local museums, the Phoenix Zoo, and other must-do attractions (like Desert Botanical Gardens and The Arizona Science Center) FREE. FOR SEVEN DAYS. FOR FOUR PEOPLE.

Here’s how it works - you pick up a Culture Pass at your local library anywhere in Greater Phoenix (that means it includes Chandler, Scottsdale, Glendale, Tempe, Mesa). The pass is good for seven days, for four people. Some of the places it gets you in: Arizona Museum of Natural History, Arizona Science Center, Children’s Museum of Phoenix, Heard Museum,Phoenix Art Museum and more are all covered by the pass.

I know you’re asking, “What’s the catch?” There is no catch. Economic times are hard and everyone is looking for something to do that’s free and entertaining. So a bunch of sponsors got together and decided to influence the community with arts and activity.

To see a full listing of FREE attractions, as well as more details, visit: http://www.theculturepass.org/. And be sure to tell your friends - there are enough passes to go around!

Unfortunately. . .

Devon's cousin posted this on her blog and I thought it was funny so I thought I'd try it. Here's how the game goes: do a Google search for the phrase "unfortunately __________" (insert your first name). You may be surprised at the random, hilarious things you will find.

Here are some of the funny ones from my search:

"Unfortunately Jessica is pregnant with the duke's daughter." (News to Devon.)

"Unfortunately Jessica's beach volleyball career was cut short due to a back injury."

"Unfortunately Jessica was unable to resist the sexy power of Seductryanyca's Diamond Claw, and she died."

"Unfortunately Jessica has left us thinking she is just another blonde bimdo."

"Unfortunately Jessica became ill due to the uranium deposits in the mountain, and her father was unable to treat her."

"Unfortunately Jessica's motherhood glow and smiles are already gone, and it's back to the pouty frowny face."

"Unfortunately Jessica doesn't seem to realize that she is dead, because she is seen walking the streets of town during the icy cold nights."

"Unfortunately Jessica seems to have missed the memo on good taste."

And my favorite:

"The high waisted jeans look works on very few body types, and unfortunately Jessica's isn't one of them. Her hair does look nice, though."

If you decide to try it leave me a comment with your favorite "unfortunately" phrase. Have fun!

Makeover

How do you like my blog makeover? I love it!! My oh-so-talented sister-in-law, Erin, designed it for me. She designs blogs and if you would like one of your own super awesome blog designs you can contact her at Designer Blogs by Erin.

A Day For Reflection

Today is my due date for my previous pregnancy. I have been dreading this day for a long time. In fact, before I found out I was pregnant this time around I was planning a vacation with my family for this weekend because I hoped it would take my mind off what I was missing. While the sadness is much less than I had anticipated thanks to my current pregnancy I still find myself wishing I were snuggling a new baby. So to make myself feel better I have installed a baby countdown widget on my sidebar. I know there is something creepy/cheesy about a floating baby ticker but I couldn't resist. I have seen countless numbers of floating babies on others' blogs for the past three years and they have always been a reminder of what I didn't have. Well, now it can be a reminder of our great miracle.

In other news I am no longer the Primary President in my ward. I was released last week so this is the first week I've been to Relief Society in 3 1/2 years. It was very strange. I was reading the ward newsletter this morning and it included an excerpt from Elder Bednar's talk about tender mercies. I realized what a tender mercy my calling in the Primary has been for me. I've just experienced the most trying three years of my life and was blessed to serve in the Primary during that time. The Primary is my happy place. I walk in the door and all the disappointment, hurt, and grief fade away. It's impossible to be surrounded by that many happy children and not be happy yourself. In addition, I had the opportunity several times each month to bear simple testimony of the principles of the Gospel, which was always a reminder of my multitude of blessings and strengthened my faith each time. My time in the Primary reminded me that the Lord is always watchful and constantly provides for us those things that are most needful. Apparently Primary is not what I need anymore. It's a sad day for me because I would stay there forever if I could.

Embarrassing Moment #89

I have no idea what number I'm really on but it has to be getting up there. I was in the dollar store with my kids the other day buying candy to go with the movie we had just rented. The clerk is ringing the items up and when he gets to the gummy worms he says, "I love anything gummy. They're the best." I reply, "Me too. Gummy anything is my favorite. I'm sure they're terrible for your teeth but I can't resist." I look up as he replies, "Yea, me too." At which point I notice he is missing at least half of his front teeth, top and bottom. He literally had about 5 front teeth total. I nearly died!

Saucy Creations Inventory Sale

Saucy Creations is having a huge inventory sale! We have a lot of extra inventory this time of year and we need to make room for our spring items. This Friday from 5:00-9:00 pm at 2665 E. Elmwood in Mesa (Amy’s house) we will have all of our inventory for sale at near or below wholesale prices. This is a great opportunity for you to get that baby item you’ve been wanting or to stock up on some fun baby shower gifts. To see some of the items that will be available you can visit our website www.saucycreations.com but we have many new items that we ordered this fall and haven’t put on the website yet so you’ll have to come and see for yourself. Even our handmade items, like bracelets will be on sale for this event. Bracelets retail for $18 but will be available one night only for $7. See you Friday!

Gratitude (a belated Thanksgiving post I suppose)

I have really been neglecting my blog lately. We're so busy that something has to fall by the wayside and that seems to be my blog. I suppose better that than time with the kids. So the holidays are upon us and I expected they would be difficult for me. While that is true, it has not been quite as hard as I thought. There have been moments, however. Devon and I were doing some Christmas shopping a couple of weeks ago and happened to walk by the baby section. I was really sad thinking about what I had planned on doing this Christmas. I would be 33 weeks pregnant by now and preparing for our new arrival. There would undoubtedly be presents under the tree for our little one. And I would be relishing in my large belly. For some reason the sadness only lasted a few minutes this time and was then replaced with gratitude for all that I do have. My two beautiful daughters, a loving husband, a house, jobs, food. There are a lot of people struggling to even make ends meet this year and I'm grateful that we have sufficient for our needs. I was also reminded of all the things I've learned in the past year--what I now know about my Savior and how that has changed me; what I better understand about the plan of salvation; what I feel for my family that wasn't there before. Would I choose to be 33 weeks pregnant if given the choice? Sure. But I'm grateful for the things that I've been given in place of that pregnancy.

Last week in church we were singing one of my favorite sacrament hymns, God Loved Us, So He Sent His Son. We sang the 4th and 5th verses, which doesn't always happen as they are written below the music so we only sing them if the priests aren't finished breaking the bread. I had never really noticed the 4th verse before. Or maybe it just held a different meaning for me this time.

In word and deed he doth require
My will to his, like son to sire,
Be made to bend, and I, as son,
Learn conduct from the Holy One.

That rings more true to me now than ever before. In bending my will to His, I learn conduct from Him. What a glorious blessing and one for which I am eternally grateful.

Designer Blogs

My fabulously creative sister-in-law, Erin, just started a new business. It is called Designer Blogs by Erin. She will design a custom blog for you and her work is awesome. Check out the deal she is offering through January 10th at her home page.

Great Deal

I have a super duper deal for you on our website. I have a promo code for my friends and family that will get you 40% off all of our bracelets, hair bows, and necklaces. Just enter the promo code SAUCY1019 at checkout and the 40% will be taken off any of the above listed items. We have been wanting to offer this for a while but have been waiting for our programmer to work out all the kinks. Please let me know if you have any problems with it. Happy shopping!