One of the best surprises I had this season was when I asked my son for his Christmas "Wish list". He jotted down a few things and emailed the list to me. He said it was in no particular order of desire. He only had a few things on the list, and the last thing listed on his list was this: "Make my Christmas by making someone else's Christmas"! It really touched my heart that my 17 year old son would have the presence of mind to think of others.

I also wanted to post a few lines from a Christmas song(and I don't even remember what song it's from), that I firmly believe, because I believe that Santa Claus is an extension of the love of Christ:

Yes, there is a Santa Claus for children everywhere.
Though you may watch the chimney tops and never see him there.

People say his magic sleigh flies through the skies above,
But you might find it anywhere you find unselfish love.

Oh yes! He really does exist and Santa Claus will live
As long as hearts can realize how good it feels to give.

So when you are feeling low, keep up your hopes because
If there is kindness in this world,
There is a Santa Claus.
Yes, there is a Santa Claus.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Whether we are ready or not, Christmas comes. The best thing about Christmas for me isn't the presents, or the decorations, it is being able to be with loved ones and celebrate the "reason for the season". We all know the story of the birth of Jesus, and how it had been foretold to happen for ages. Can you imagine the joy and relief of the people living at that time, as they realized all the prophecies about the lamb of God had come to pass-what joy, what relief, what astonishment and wonder! The new star that appeared to lighten the way to the new born babe. I like to focus on this, that Jesus is the light of the world. The love and hope that he brought to the world remains and we all experience it at this time of year.

We want to wish you all the joys, wonder, hope, light, warmth and magic of the season. We hope that you are all able to be with your loved ones and have a peaceful holiday. We are so blessed to have the love and friendhip of such wonderful family, friends, and neighbors. Spread the love and the light of the season every opportunity you get. (this pic is from last year)

This is for Hayley!!

I know Hayley will love this pic of Poochie under the tree. Once I got it up, she went crazy rolling around under it, and trying to fluff up the tree skirt so she could lay down.

Happy Birthday Dad

November 22nd was my dad's 75th birthday. We had a dinner at Sizzler, but I didn't get any pics. So here are a few pics from past years. My dad is an animal nut, especially for horses and cats. In fact, we call him the horse whisperer, but he can pretty much charm any animal.

This one is a couple years old, but the last time most of his kids from my side were together. Lisa, Scott, Dad, Kip, Me .

Dad with his mother. This was taken in 2006.

Tribute to Sisters

Me and My sister, Lisa

It is so wonderful to have a sister to shop with, talk to, lean on, cry with, etc. Lisa and I are the best shopping pals. Over the weekend we went to the Gateway and found some great deals. I love it when we find a new favorite shop! We are partners in crime. I hope everyone appreciates having a sister(or sisters) as much as I do. We rely on each other so much.

Love you Lisa. By the way, this pic is several years old, but it is one of the best ones of us together. Everyone give your sister a big hug today!!

Better late than never. This is my alter ego for Halloween! I was the

spider witch. Better than being an M&M, as I was the last few years!

Hayley's Curlers & Kisses

When Hayley was at my house, I put curlers in her hair
and she was just too irresistable for Poochie!!

Rainy Day Surprise

Matt and Elder Unz!!

Me and Elder Unz!! I wasn't expecting anyone

and when the doorbell rang I wondered who could

it possibly be---to my surprise it was STEVE!

My post for today is a poem as follows:

A WINNER'S CREED

If you think you are beaten,

you are;

If you think you dare not,

you don't;

If you'd like to win, but think

you can't,

It's almost a cinch you won't.

If you think you'll lose, you've lost;

For out in the world we find

Success begins with a person's will,

It's all in the state of mind.

Life's battles don't always go

To the stronger or faster hand;

But sooner or later

The person who wins

Is the one who thinks "I

can."

Author Unknown

So, let us all remember "I can!"

Our Trip to Nauvoo

In August we went to Nauvoo. It was a dream vacation! Here are some pics from our trip:

Mom and the girls in front of the Nauvoo Temple. It was beautiful!


Mom, Stef, and Mandi in front of one of the original Sunstones.


Pioneer generations! Grandma, Hayley, and Jenny.


We thought this was cute. It worked out perfectly.


Mandi, Hayley, Mom, Jenny, and Stef at the Smith Family Cemetery. You could feel such a strong spirit there.


The Nauvoo Temple at night. Wasn't the full moon beautiful?


All of us in front of the temple. Mandi, Stef, Hayley, Jenny, Daniel, Mom.


Sisters: Jenny, Stef, Mandi


I think this one is so cute. Stef and Mandi peeking out through the cornstalks!


Hayley, Stef, Mom, and Mandi in front of the Mississippi river. The scenery was beautiful!


The Nauvoo Temple taken from the other side of the Mississippi.


The death masks of Joseph and Hyrum Smith. I admire these men so much.


The statues in front of the temple of Joseph and Hyrum Smith with a beautiful sunset in the background.


Some of us in front of the St. Louis Arch. It's huge!

Fall Colors

The day before our forecasted "Big Storm" I decided to go up Big Cottonwood Cyn. and enjoy the beautiful fall colors and solitude. It was so wonderful. Hope you enjoy my pics.