It's About Blogging Time.

Centenarian celebrates long life with family and friends

2012-01-23T20:29:00.001-07:00

ROY — After 102 birthdays, cake and balloons still don’t get old.

Just ask Adriana Dalebout, of Roy, who celebrated her 102nd birthday Jan. 13 with enough balloons and cake to go around for the crowd of family and friends who came to enjoy her celebration at Heritage Park Care Center.

As a member of the centenarian club — exclusive to those 100 years and older — Dalebout’s secret to a long life was discussed by her three sons at the birthday bash. And all of her sons agreed to attribute her long life to her healthy habits and the unconditional love she has given to others.

“She’s always been in good health, probably because she doesn’t let things get underneath her skin,” said David Dalebout, 75, her oldest son, from Syracuse. “She just lets things roll off her back and doesn’t dwell on things.”

David Dalebout recalled how his mom significantly influenced the lives of several people, including one of his friends who needed a place to live during his teen years. He became like a family member, living with the Dalebouts for a number of years.

For Adriana — nicknamed Edna — hitting 102 wasn’t necessarily a lifelong goal, but she said she has no regrets in life.

“I have worked hard and took care of my kids and other people and have loved doing that,” Edna said. “I try to live the best I can and try to be good to everybody in my life.”

Words to live by, say family members who credit Edna’s loving nature to her parents.

“She comes from a generation of a loving family and treats everyone as if you’re her favorite,” said her second-oldest son, Dennis Dalebout, 70, from Roy.

Edna said the best thing about her life was being married to her husband for 74 years. Her husband, Sylvester, died four years ago.

The two had a good marriage, Edna said, but certainly didn’t lack the trials that every family experiences.

“There is a schooling that hard times give you that gets you through the rest of life,” said Karen Dalebout, David Dalebout’s wife, when asked how the family got through the difficult times.
Karen said Edna is simply one of the most kind, loving, and passionate women she has met.
Edna’s youngest son, Mark Dalebout, 62, of Marriott-Slaterville, confided that although she had good healthy habits, Edna didn’t hesitate to cook with butter or bacon grease.

“One thing she always said was something her mother taught her — anything with a too in front of it was not good, such as too much of this, or too little of that,” Mark said, “so she enjoyed things — just not too little, and not too much.”

Mark said she just keeps going and always has a good attitude about her situation.

Growing up, Edna was the second of seven children. She’s the only one still living and says:
“I just keep hanging in there.”

http://www.standard.net/stories/2012/01/22/centenarian-celebrates-long-life-family-and-friends

Grandma Edna turned 102 last week and the local newspaper ran this article! She is such a joy and we sure do love her!!

Shaking the Weight

2012-01-07T08:01:00.000-07:00

I realize that several times on this blog I have posted my new resolve to lose my unwanted weight and get healthy. Alas, my resolve wasn't all that strong and after a week I was back to the same ol same.

Well, about Halloween my sister and sister-in-law decided that the three of us needed to have a weightloss challenge to keep each other motivated in losing our unwanted weight. The challenge would end on New Year's Eve. During the holidays? Yes! We figured it was no better time than waiting until we had gained more weight. So they started off losing a few pounds at a time and doing awesome. Me, I continued to gain weight it seemed. It was the week before Christmas and I couldn't believe that I was right where I had started. I had enough of my clothes not fitting and feeling awful.

So I decided enough was enough. I quit eating sugar, carbs, and dairy. Now when I say sugar, I'm talking about nothing. No sugar in anything; including salad dressings. It is very hard to do this and you have to watch everything you eat closely. Sugar lurks around every corner. I even avoided fruits, they are full of natural sugars; and any rooted veggies as they are high in starch. I drink 80-100 oz of water a day, and take my plethora of multi-vitamins. I lost 11 pounds in 1 week. Hooray! I have continued this tread of eating for three weeks now, and I'm down almost 15 lbs.

I feel much better, my clothes comfortably fit again. I am still not eating any white breads, pastas, and no refined sugar. I have slowly added back in some carbs, but not much. I have started to exercise for 30 min -3 times a week. I am hoping to lose my last 15 lbs. But it's not going to come off as fast as the first 15 for sure.

One thing I have found very helpful is logging everything stinking thing you eat of drink. My fitness pal is an awesome free website for this! You set your goals and it reminds you of them. I've put a banner on my blog to reflect how I am doing; this way everyone can harass me if I slip. That should be motivation enough!!

Western Sage CPAs

2011-11-27T21:12:00.000-07:00

I realized the other day that I haven't blogged in who knows how long. A lot has been going on.....and quite frankly it has left me exhausted!

The new firm is finally up and running. The office was repainted and redecorated w/ our new sign out front! We got our website up! Check it out! We even have a facebook page!

But alas, time is quickly ticking by. Tax planning for the end of the year has begun already and before Congress even gets around to passing tax laws again; we'll be in full swing of tax season!

Another one in the running

2011-10-03T13:11:00.002-06:00

So, according to the polls so far, Clockwork Tax Services is winning. Which honestly is my favorite. So our team came up with another one today, and it looks promising.

What do you think about Western Sage CPA's, PC.??

Be honest and tell me the truth.

Any ideas for a tagline or logo??

The Naming of the Firm

2011-10-02T19:57:00.003-06:00

So after several suggestions to name the new CPA firm, we have narrowed it down to a few. However, we are still open for suggestions. So look at the list and vote for your favorite!!! Also, the words services, group or CPA's can really be interchanged in each name. So if you prefer it one way over another let me know!!!

Keep in mind that we are in Wyoming and that most of our clients are in the agriculture business!!!

Day 1 - Pre Juice Fast

2011-08-16T15:49:00.000-06:00

So although I'm not officially starting my juice fast until Aug. 25, I have decided to to start juicing for one meal a day as not to send myself into a total shock & detox. So yesterday I tried really hard to not eat any sugar (I did cheat though) and today I've not had any sugar, drinking 64 oz of water a day, and juicing for one meal.

I've been a little freaked out thinking about all the disgusting juices that I will have to drink. So each day I'll try a new receipe to ease my little mind. Today I had the most excellent juice. Here is the reciepe:

Purple Power Juice
6 cups Concord Grapes
1 Golden Delicious Apple
2 2" x 2” pieces Ginger
1/2 cup Blackberries

Calories: 470
Protein: 5 g
Fiber: 1 g

Amazing!! Put it on ice and you have a nice cold refreshing drink! I find it easier to drink juices through a straw as well!

I am also going to post my body stats on the side of website so everyone can see my progress. Sad and scary I know, but then everyone can give me motivation!!

Getting Ready to Start the Reboot

2011-08-14T21:52:00.000-06:00

I am starting my reboot on Aug. 25. Why that date? Because it is the day after my CPA exam and I don't want to stress myself any more by denying myself chocolate - my comfort food. Lame I know, but a girls gotta do what a girls gotta do. In the mean time here is what we all need to do this next week. (For those of you joining me!!)

Getting Ready for Your Reboot Entry

Getting Ready For Your Reboot Entry

One week before your Reboot you will need to start getting ready. The intention is to help boost your nutrient intake and get you used to a healthy diet before embarking on your Reboot program.

Before your Reboot, here’s what you need to do:

1. Knowledge is power. Learn some simple, but important facts about food that will help you make informed eating decisions. Read Our Easy Fact Sheets:
Some Simple Facts to Consider
Know the Benefits of the Fruits & Vegetables You Eat
Simple Eating Guidelines
2. Invest in a good quality juicer. Visit our online shop to read reviews and to purchase one now. (I personally have the Breville juicer, as seen in the show. My wonderful mom gave it to me a few years ago. Thanks mom!!)
3. Identify an affordable source of local, seasonal produce and make shopping lists.
4. At least one week prior to beginning your Reboot plan, start changing the way you eat.

Say Goodbye To: processed junk foods, white flours, sugar/desserts, fried food, fast food, processed meats, alcohol and begin to wean yourself off caffeine.
Say Hello To: salads, soups, smoothies with a variety of fruits and vegetables as well as whole grains, nuts, seeds, natural nut butters, beans and legumes.
Transitioning off animal proteins: choose wild-caught fish, organic eggs, gradually decrease poultry during the week and choose only organic varieties when you eat them. If you eat red meat choose only grass-fed organic, lean and don’t eat this past day 3 of the preparation week. By last day of the week, your protein should come from solely plant sources such as beans, nuts, legumes (for example, black beans, hummus, chick peas, lentils, edamame)
Transitioning off dairy: Choose only low or non-fat organic dairy with little to no added sugars. If you choose soy, rice or almond milk also get unflavored/plain to limit the sugar content. Choose organic cheese, and transition from cow’s milk cheese to goat cheese by the middle of the week. By the end of the week (day 5) all dairy should be out of your diet to prepare for the Reboot.

5. Preparation the Night before your Reboot.

Stop all NON-PRESCRIPTION vitamins/supplements during the Reboot unless you have been advised to take them by a physician.
Don’t take any self-prescribed, over-the-counter medications.
Hydrate well (at least 64-72 ounces a day)
Set up your juicer the night before – get all parts cleaned and ready on your kitchen counter. You can even prep your veggies and fruits by cleaning them ahead of time and storing them in the fridge to make your morning run more smoothly.
Go to bed early and get a good night’s sleep.

I wish I could say this is going to be fun! But it's not. However, it will be worth it and we will feel better sooner than later!! Also, you can mark my words that this is only the beginning.

Reboot Movement

2011-08-14T16:49:00.000-06:00

Reboot Movement

I watched Fat, Sick, & Nearly Dead and I have decided it's time for a change. I'm tired of feeling like crap and being overweight. I am going to start my body reboot next week and would like everyone to go the reboot movement website and join me!!! The more people we have the more we can motivate each other to become healthy!!

My Family

2011-07-30T18:36:00.001-06:00

Look at my awesome family!!

Left to Right: Kristen, Eric, Evelyn, Jenny, Tage, Tim, Sunni, Brecken, Landri, Dad, Mom, Elisa, Andrea, Cambri, Nate, Adriana, Mallory, KayLynn, Olivia, and Simon!!

One Week

2011-07-28T18:09:00.000-06:00

Today's song of the day, totally cracks me up. If you even knew what drama is going on around me, you would laugh too. Almost the whole song is applicable for the day. And I will say, it has nothing to do with me and Jared. =)

Taglines:

It's been one week since you looked at me
Cocked your head to the side and said "I'm angry"
Five days since you laughed at me saying
"Get that together come back and see me"

Cause it's so dangerous,
you'll have to sign a waiver
How can I help it if I think you're funny when you're mad
Trying hard not to smile though I feel bad
I'm the kind of guy(gal) who laughs at a funeral
Can't understand what I mean? Well, you soon will
I have a tendency to wear my mind on my sleeve

It's been one week since you looked at me
Threw your arms in the air
and said "You're crazy"

Like Harrison Ford I'm getting frantic

It's been one week since you looked at me
Dropped your arms to your sides
and said "I'm sorry"
Five days since I laughed at you and said
"You just did just what I thought you were gonna do"

Today's Song

2011-07-27T21:17:00.000-06:00

This is how today went: Sparkadia: Too Much To Do
Song line: Too much to do and there's not enough time, not enough time

Theme Songs of the Day

2011-07-27T21:11:00.000-06:00

I realize that I have not blogged for such a long time......not sure what I've been doing that has kept me from it, but I'm sure it was important! I was thinking today about how funny it would be to have a life theme song of the day. Granted you won't know the background behind why I"m picking said song, but it may just increase your musical appreciation. And it will have to be the day after for today, so yesterday's theme song was: Secrets by OneRepublic. Tagline: "Tell me what you want to hear......I'm gonna give all my secrets away!"

Federal Budget vs. Household Budget: How Do They Compare? - Budgeting - daveramsey.com

2011-05-18T08:36:00.000-06:00

Federal Budget vs. Household Budget: How Do They Compare? - Budgeting - daveramsey.com

Funny you should ask!

2011-04-12T21:52:00.008-06:00

I realize that not everyone lives for tax law; and those of us who do barely understand it I assure you! But this tax season has been fraught with crazy questions!!! So I thought a good way to end the season is to post some of the funny things I have been asked here!

-My brother died. Can I write off the airfare to go to his funeral? NO. Can I write off his death? NO. Is there some kinda credit I can get for grievance? NO.

-When I got up in the morning I found that my truck had caught fire and burnt up in the night. Can I write that off? (This included pictures of said truck. And it was burnt to a crisp. Makes you wonder if he was passed out.) NO.

-I was wondering how I can get some of those credits on my tax return for being unemployed. I hear them on the radio. THERE ARE NO CREDITS FOR BEING UNEMPLOYED. ARE YOU TAKING ABOUT GETTING UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS? Yea, my husband was out of work, and we really need some credits. YOU WILL NEED TO FILE W/ THE STATE FOR UNEMPLOYMENT THEN. Oh, you mean like I have to fill out an application with the state. YES. I already did that and they said no. WELL THEN......

-Do you happen to have a calculator right there? WHY YES, I'M AN ACCOUNTANT AREN'T I. Great, can you times 86.73 x 12? Because either my computer or my head ain't working right. I just don't know which one. I'm head damaged you know. CLEARLY.

-Where do I take the deduction for interest and penalties I had to pay the IRS? YOU CAN'T DEDUCT THOSE. Ok, but do I have to claim this interest the IRS paid me? YES. Well then why can't I deduct the interest I pay them? BECAUSE IT'S A CRAPPY SYSTEM.

-I'm having some trouble with Grey Wolf. GREY WOLVES! WHAT TYPE OF TROUBLE? Well, see my husband works for them.

-What's the biggest refund you can get me? DEPENDS, HOW BIG DO YOU WANT? A really big one. I CAN PROBABLY GET YOU A FAIRLY NICE REFUND, BUT I WON'T SIGN THE TAX RETURN AND YOU'LL BE THE ONE TO GO TO JAIL.

-Did you know that IRS agents have really long sharp fangs? WHY YES I DO. ONE OF MY BEST FRIENDS IS ONE AND I ALWAYS WEAR GARLIC AROUND MY NECK WHEN WE GET TOGETHER! (That one is for you Suz!)

-I have a loss on my business this year. But I can't deduct the loss because I have no income. So I was wondering if I could give it to my brother. ONLY IF HE PAYS YOU FOR IT ;) j/k. NO!

-You know the energy credit that you can get. YES. Can I deduct the new insulating blinds for my house? NO. Well, I keep them closed most of the time so that helps keep the heat in. NO

-I do not want my refund direct deposited. WHY? YOU'LL GET YOUR MONEY MUCH FASTER. Well, I don't want the IRS to have my checking account number. They might just come and take my money when ever they want to. IT DOESN'T WORK THAT WAY, AND BESIDES, IF THEY IRS IS GOING TO TAKE YOUR MONEY THEY DON'T NEED YOUR ACCOUNT NUMBER. THEY CAN FIND IT BY OTHER MEANS. (Which at this point, there were comments about the IRS and the KGB by the client).

-Are you sure I owe $532? I'm just an little old lady that doesn't make any money. How can I owe? YES I'M SURE. IT IS FROM THE MONEY YOU TOOK OUT OF YOUR RETIREMENT. Ok, if you say so I guess I will write Uncle Sam a check. I might as well pay my part of the national debt. (Just a thought, but I don't think $532 will pay for much of it).

-THIS GUY BRINGS HIS TAX RETURN IN FRIDAY. (ONE WEEK BEFORE THE 15TH). So do you think you'll be able to have my tax return done by next week sweetheart? NO, I WON'T. THERE ARE ABOUT 25 PEOPLE IN FRONT OF YOU. Well, I guess you better start working your butt off. (I HAD JUST FINISHED WORKING OVER 60 HOURS THAT WEEK.) I AM PRETTY SURE I HAVE ALREADY BEEN DOING THAT. YOU'LL BE GETTING AN EXTENTION. NEXT YEAR BRING IT IN BY FEB 1ST.

-Same day as the guy above. Lady calls in. I was wondering if you'll have time to do my taxes. IT DOESN'T LOOK LIKE WE DID YOUR 2009 TAXES LAST YEAR. WE THOUGHT YOU WENT TO A DIFFERENT ACCOUNTING FIRM. Oh no. I just had other things to do and didn't get around to filing my 2009 taxes. So can you file them both? I'm an artist. FIGURES.

-Same day as above. (It was a very long day). I WAS JUST CALLING TO SEE IF YOU'LL BE BRINGING YOUR TAXES IN THIS YEAR. THE 15TH IS NEXT WEEK. Oh my goodness! It is April already? I must be way behind. NO, I GUESS YOU DIDN'T GET THE MEMO THAT THIS YEAR WE SKIPPED FEBRUARY AND MARCH. (Hello!)

I'M SORRY SIR, YOU DON'T QUALIFY FOR THE MAKING WORK PAY CREDIT. SO YOU'RE REFUND WELL BE $250 LESS THAN YOU THOUGHT. Well, isn't that just like the government to stimulate you and then take it away.

So, you have a tax question you've been dying to ask. Go ahead! Try to make me laugh!!

Since I posted this blog, I had a winner!! Here goes:

-I just had a question for ya'll. This is the first time I've used ya'll services, and I was wondering if you ever enter your work into a computer to double check your figures. NO NEVER. WE BELIEVE IN USING TYPEWRITERS AND AN ABACUS TO CALCULATE YOUR TAXES. THE TAX CODE IS SO EASY TO UNDERSTAND THAT WHY WOULD ANY ONE NEED A COMPUTER? AND THE E-FILE FORM YOU SIGNED? WE DON'T REALLY E-FILE THROUGH A COMPUTER, WE ATTACH YOUR RETURN TO A SNAIL AND SENT IT TO THE IRS THAT WAY!

Thing 1 & Thing 2

2011-03-23T20:51:00.003-06:00

Ok. That might not be their names. But there have been moments when it seemed like Thing 1 & Thing 2 have just ran through the house making a huge mess. Well Simon and Olivia made it to the ripe old age of 7! It really is a miracle. (In more ways than 1).

We spent the day in Billings spending birthday money and eating three bowls of ice cream. They also had to learn a lesson that we don't need to spend every dime we have and to save for the future. (That was the hardest part!)

Here are some pictures of them!

It was penguin day after learning all about the different types of penguins. Simon and Olivia waned to be Rock Hopper Penguins. (So obviously they are the two w/ the yellow tufts coming out of their ears!)

Simon listening intently to the veteran's share their war stories.

Simon making a smiley face at school out of??

Olivia picking out her pumpkin at the pumpkin patch!

Posing w/ the butterfly they caught as a caterpillar and hatched!

Butterfly glasses!

Playing with the butterfly!

11 Step Program for Those Thinking of Having Kids

2011-03-22T21:41:00.002-06:00

by Amy Lawrence

Lesson 1

1. Go to the grocery store.

2. Arrange to have your salary paid directly to their head office.

3. Go home.

4. Pick up the paper.

5. Read it for the last time.

Lesson 2

Before you finally go ahead and have children, find a couple who already are parents and berate them about their...

1. Methods of discipline.

2. Lack of patience.

3. Appallingly low tolerance levels.

4. Allowing their children to run wild.

5. Suggest ways in which they might improve their child's breastfeeding, sleep habits, toilet training, table manners, and overall behavior.

Enjoy it because it will be the last time in your life you will have all the answers.

Lesson 3

A really good way to discover how the nights might feel...

1. Get home from work and immediately begin walking around the living room from 5PM to 10PM carrying a wet bag weighing approximately 8-12 pounds, with a radio turned to static (or some other obnoxious sound) playing loudly. (Eat cold food with one hand for dinner)

2. At 10PM, put the bag gently down, set the alarm for midnight, and go to sleep.

3. Get up at 12 and walk around the living room again, with the bag, until 1AM.

4. Set the alarm for 3AM.

5. As you can't get back to sleep, get up at 2AM and make a drink and watch an infomercial.

6. Go to bed at 2:45AM.

7. Get up at 3AM when the alarm goes off.

8. Sing songs quietly in the dark until 4AM.

9. Get up. Make breakfast. Get ready for work and go to work (work hard and be productive)

Repeat steps 1-9 each night. Keep this up for 3-5 years. Look cheerful and together.

Lesson 4

Can you stand the mess children make? T o find out...

1. Smear peanut butter onto the sofa and jam onto the curtains.

2. Hide a piece of raw chicken behind the stereo and leave it there all summer.

3. Stick your fingers in the flower bed.

4. Then rub them on the clean walls.

5. Take your favorite book, photo album, etc. Wreck it.

6. Spill milk on your new pillows. Cover the stains with crayons. How does that look?

Lesson 5

Dressing small children is not as easy as it seems.

1. Buy an octopus and a small bag made out of loose mesh.

2. Attempt to put the octopus into the bag so that none of the arms hang out.

Time allowed for this - all morning.

Lesson 6

Forget the BMW and buy a mini-van. And don't think that you can leave it out in the driveway spotless and shining. Family cars don't look like that.

1. Buy a chocolate ice cream cone and put it in the glove compartment.

Leave it there.

2. Get a dime. Stick it in the CD player.

3. Take a family size package of chocolate cookies. Mash them into the back seat. Sprinkle cheerios all over the floor, then smash them with your foot.

4. Run a garden rake along both sides of the car.

Lesson 7

Go to the local grocery store. Take with you the closest thing you can find to a pre-school child. (A full-grown goat is an excellent choice). If you intend to have more than one child, then definitely take more than one goat. Buy your week's groceries without letting the goats out of your sight. Pay for everything the goat eats or destroys. Until you can easily accomplish this, do not even contemplate having children.

Lesson 8

1. Hollow out a melon.

2. Make a small hole in the side.

3. Suspend it from the ceiling and swing it from side to side.

4. Now get a bowl of soggy Cheerios and attempt to spoon them into the swaying melon by pretending to be an airplane.

5. Continue until half the Cheerios are gone.

6. Tip half into your lap. The other half, just throw up in the air.

You are now ready to feed a nine- month-old baby.

Lesson 9

Learn the names of every character from Sesame Street , Barney, Disney, the Teletubbies, and Pokemon. Watch nothing else on TV but PBS, the Disney channel or Noggin for at least five years. (I know, you're thinking What's 'Noggin'?) Exactly the point.

Lesson 10

Make a recording of Fran Drescher saying 'mommy' repeatedly. (Important: no more than a four second delay between each 'mommy'; occasional crescendo to the level of a supersonic jet is required). Play this tape in your car everywhere you go for the next four years. You are now ready to take a long trip with a toddler.

Lesson 11

Start talking to an adult of your choice. Have someone else continually tug on your skirt hem, shirt- sleeve, or elbow while playing the 'mommy' tape made from Lesson 10 above. You are now ready to have a conversation with an adult while there is a child in the room.

This is all very tongue in cheek; anyone who is parent will say 'it's all worth it!' Share it with your friends, both those who do and don't have kids. I guarantee they'll get a chuckle out of it. Remember, a sense of humor is one of the most important things you'll need when you become a parent!

The Tax Clock is Ticking......

2011-03-17T21:32:00.003-06:00

Just one more month people; then taxes will be due. I know what you are thinking, I'm a few days behind. Today is the 17th. Not to worry! The tax filing deadline has been pushed back to April 18th this year due to Emancipation Day. What is that? Good question. An even better question is why are we moving TAX DAY in the name of it?!

Emancipation Day is April 16th. Back in 1862, President Lincoln signed the Compensated Emancipation Act for the releaes of slaves in the District of Columbia. The Act freed about 3100 slaves in D.C. nine months before President Lincoln issued his famous Emanicpation Proclamation. The District of Columbia Compensated Emancipation Act is the only known example of compensation by the federal government to former owners of emancipated slaves.

In 2005 it was made a district public holiday by the Mayor. Now every year there are various activities held to celebrate the freedom on the slaves. Apparently there used to be a celebration yearly from 1866 to 1901. This tradition resumed in 2002. (Only took a 100 years; makes you wonder why they stopped it?)

Then the IRS decided to join in on the celebration. In 2007 it was decided that the filing deadline would be pushed back until after the celebration. (Probably because so many people in the nation attend and that makes it unable for them file their taxes in a timely manner). Unfortunately, someone forgot to notify the printer and all the 2006 forms had the wrong filing date.

So now, whenever the 15th falls on a weekend, the filing deadline is pushed back. And if it falls on Emancipation Day it goes back ever farther. Just a little FYI for all your procrastinators out there. For those of us who are counting down to April 15th......looks like we are going to have to work a few more days! =)

The Element of Time

2011-03-04T21:22:00.001-07:00

What is time exactly? According to Wikipedia, "Time is a part of the measuring system used to sequence events, to compare the durations of events and the intervals between them, and to quantify rates of change such as the motions of objects."

What? My thoughts exactly. I am not a scientist for sure! I just know that some days feel as if they will never end while others are over in the blink of an eye! The older you get, the faster time seems to go?!

The week is already over and I really don't remember the week at all. It seems like Monday was forever ago, and yet Monday seemed as if it would never end.

Nonetheless, we should all spend our "time" doing what we love and with the people we love. No one knows how much "time" they have left!

And I just want to add that I am a very fortunate person. I really want for nothing and especially when it comes to friends and family. I have so many people who care about me (or at least I think they do). I have some of the same friends since 2nd grade. I have some friends that are only a few years old and several in between. All of my friends are important and each are dear to me for very different reasons. Family also falls into this category. I have great memories of family from some of my first memories, and I continue to make great memories with my family. How blessed we all truly are!

So here is a totally random note.......if you truly love your friends and family, the least you can do is get your life in order so that if anything should happen to you they do not have to worry about you. If you don't have a will GO GET ONE!

Budget Cuts - Not Good Enough!!

2011-02-22T21:29:00.004-07:00

I was listening to Dave Ramsey's show the other day. (For those of you who do not know who he is, I suggest you go get the book The Total Money Makeover RIGHT NOW!!) He was talking about the current budget plan that is currently being proposed with all those HUGE cuts in it. Right? WRONG! He broke down the numbers per American and put it in a way that is just staggering and terrifying. Here is what he said: The current budget being debated is equivalent to this.......

A family of four has over $327,000 in credit card debt! They make $58,000 a year in wages and currently spend $75,000 per year with their current life style. This family, being amazing like they are, realized one day that there is NO WAY they will ever pay off their credit card debt with their current expenses. (For those of you having a hard time with the math, this family currently spends $18,000 more per year than they make. So every year their credit card debt grows substantially.) In fact, every year that cannot even pay the interest on the credit cards.

So the family sat down and discussed this money problem they were having and decided that they would cut spending. It was a HUGE success according to the dad. He felt like he had found a answer to the problem. His new budget would take their spending from $75K per year down to $72K! They were really going to have to sacrifice, but in the long run it would be better for the family.

Now, after reading this you are probably thinking that is crazy! How can someone spend so much money and then think that by cutting it down by 3,000 per year that they were ever going to get ahead financially? Well, it doesn't take an accountant to tell you that in a few years this little family will be filing for bankruptcy and they will be in a huge economic crisis!

Knowing these numbers are based on the real breakdown per American, I really don't know how anyone can sleep at night. Everyone whines that their programs, benefits, etc are going to be cut w/ the new budget proposals. I hate to tell you this, but if everyone doesn't take a serious life style change RIGHT now....there is really no way to tell what economic crisis this country is really going to see. If social security goes broke, (and based on the numbers it will a few short years) there are going to be lots of our grandma's eating Alpo; and there is no way that will be good.

So call your Senators and let them know that we want a balanced budget. If you have an idiot for a Senator, vote him out. Until we get a balanced budget, I really don't know how the economy can improve......and by the way I don't care what side of the political arena you are on......both sides are wrong and acting like spoiled brats.

My Latest Obsession

2011-02-06T16:44:00.003-07:00

Ok. I know some of you might be shocked right now to learn that I actually obsess over things (hee hee). My most hidden obsession (for right now anyway) is this stupid Wii Ware game called Fluidity. (Click the link to see it!)

I rarely play Wii games but every once in awhile a really cool one comes out that catches my fancy. (My last game obsession was the New Super Mario Brothers!)

Problem is.....I am stuck on stupid level 2 and can't get past it. It is very frustrating. I also hate to be beat by a game. It is a fairly new game, and obviously not many people play it so I can't find any hints to help me.

So! Everyone go download the game from Wii Ware and help me beat the stupid game so I can continue one with my life! AAGGHH!

To Lose It All......

2011-02-05T19:37:00.005-07:00

Over a week and half ago, I joined a nation wide weight loss challenge. The Grand Prize? $10,000. I know, it would be sweet to win that kind of money! But alas, I am certain that I will not be the grand prize winner. Why? Fortunately I do not have much of a chance. My goal is to lose 25 lbs. There are many more people in this challenge with much bigger goals and I'm rooting for all of them! So why I am doing this? Sometimes you just need a little motivation.

My strategy for the next 12 weeks. Well, that is the secret you see. Over the next 12 weeks, I hope to tranform my habits for life. I do not just want to go on some crazy diet/ exercise plan that helps me lose weight. I want to change my bad habits so I do not have to do this again, and to drastically improve my health.

Fruits and veggies are the key. Nothing new. We were all taught this in grade school. I eat them all day long; I eat them with a song; I eat them anywhere; I eat them because I care. (Ok, that was a bad attempt at Dr. Suess, forgive me). So for the last 13 days I have eaten ALL the fresh fruits and veggies I want. No portion control, no counting calories, no counting anything. Just eat until I'm full. I have meat a few times a week, and just in small portions. Drink 64 ounces of water a day. Take a vitamin supplement. No sugar, refined foods, white flour, oil, etc. None. Oh yea, and eat an apple a day. It really will keep the doctor away.

Sugar has been the hardest part. I won't lie. I am addicted. And it's everywhere. It calls my name in my sleep. The worst part. The fates are tempting me. Since I started this thing....it seems that everyone has been showing up with my favorite treats. So far I have been able to resist. So far. It's hard to avoid sugar. Try it. It is in EVERYTHING! Ketchup, salad dressing, bread, cookies, cakes, all the yummy things in life.......

But! I do have good news. After 13 days of being green (hee hee), I am proud to say I've lost 8.5 lbs. Sadly, you can't tell yet, but I'm getting there. And once it gets above freezing again, I might even take up an old habit. Running. I might as well see what this plump little old body of mine can do! RIGHT!

So share your thoughts and encouragement. Better yet! Join me in this life style change challenge. For those of you who have great fitness/ eating tips. Leave those as well.

Let the Taxing Begin!!

2011-01-16T16:59:00.003-07:00

Ok, I realize that I am probably one of the few people in this world who looks forward to tax season! I guess that is why I am a tax accountant. I love being crazy busy. I love that every year there is a new tax challenge awaiting me! That is probably why this career suits me so well. It is hard to get bored when you are always working on new things!

I must say that this year will be especially exciting, considering the fact that Congress waited until the very last moment to pass the tax law for 2010; which in turn has created a mess with the IRS; resulting in the fact that most of our clients will not be able to file until mid - late February because the tax forms won't even be ready.

So, life will be crazy busy around here until mid-May. If you need me, call me at my new first home.....the office.

What happened to the week?

2010-12-11T19:11:00.002-07:00

So, I had every intention of posting a blog about the members of my family and they great things they do. But it's the end of the week, and I'm not sure where the week went?! I guess I will lessen my goal to one family member per week. But on the happy side I FINALLY got my test reults......and I PASSED!!!!! I was so happy I was yelling and jumping up and down at work!

I hope tomorrow to have a new post up. Time flies when you are having.....well something. 2010 is ALMOST over!

A Week of Rememberance

2010-12-05T19:50:00.005-07:00

I have not blogged in several months. I wish I had some amazing excuse, but it's just pure laziness. I have been trying to decide what to write on. Life around here gets pretty monotonous. So I was thinking to myself, "Self, you should write about your best memories of your family." Great thinking! So everyday this week, I will write on one person in my family and how great they are. These are in no particular order, and first on the list is.....

NATE!

There are a lot of things we could say about Nate. He's funny, smart, adventurous, very independent, and has great taste in most everything! I recently went to visit him the week of Halloween. He decided to remodel his master bathroom, and who better to call to help you! But me of course! So I flew down there for a week to help out. It was a HUGE project, and we didn't even get close to half way done. (Cuz of course we have to go eat and sight seeing!!) We ate all sorts of delicious food! Italian, Greek, Mexican, Japanese, Chinese, Cajun, etc. He even ordered up some frog legs and fried alligator! It was really fun hanging out for a week and spending time with my slightly older brother! He always makes me laugh!

Nate is 15 months older than me, so I guess you could say we did a lot of things together as kids (with Tim of course). We probably caused my mom a lot of heartache when we'd get into trouble. And believe me, we caused plenty of it. We had a lot of fun together as kids. It is really amazing no one ever got hurt. Here are some pics of Nate.

Four generations! Great-grandma Nelson, Granny McLean, mom, and Nate

Halloween

Nate & Tim and their favorite bears

Christmas! Nate loved to build things even as a kid.

Nate's first birthday!
Devil!

Nate actually pulled the sword from the stone and was crowned KING FOR THE DAY!

One of many fantastic trips to Disneyland with the cousins!

Building sand castles! Still one of his favorite past times!

His first three piece suit! He still wears them today!
Leaving on his mission!

One of our first computers! Nate was already great with them, and who know he's make a life career out of it!

Vroom Vroom! Sand dunes!

I could add all sorts of pictures of fun adventures with Nate! He is fun loving and everyone loves to hang out with him! The kids love him and he plays a great favorite uncle. Nate is a very giving person. Always has been. You can always count on him. He loves his family although he would probably never admit it. We are sure glad that we have him around, even though he lives far away. Unfortunately he gets deployed again in January and so we won't get too see or talk to him for a few months. Hopefully we can get on the web cam or something! We'd like to go visit him in the summer after he returns!

Here's to Uncle Nate! (One more thing about him. He's a very private person and he'll probably kill me if he reads this blog!) What are you favorite things about Nate!?

Some Must Push and Some Must Pull, As We Go Marching Up the Hill

2010-10-12T21:01:00.005-06:00

So....we've lived here in Worland, WY for three years now. I honestly think that is a record for us to stay in one place for that long! I know what you thinking, but don't worry. We moved into another house just to follow our usually pattern of migration. It might have only been across the street, but it was just as painful.

Which leads me to another point. Since we have lived here, we have never gone to Martin's Cove. It's only about 3 hours from us. (Just trust me on this, when I say it is not very far. By Wyoming standards, three hours is literally just around the corner).

We decided we should go this year and experience what our ancestors, the pioneers, went through to get to Utah. Over Labor Day weekend, our dear friends and us, ventured to Martin's Cove. We have four kids and our friends, the Nelsons, have seven. Some how, Jared and I ended up with seven of the eleven kids in our tent! Seven kids under the age of 10! It was very....noisy? We stayed for three days. It was really fun. We pulled handcarts for 6 miles, forged the river, and endured the wind.

Let's just say that we probably would have died along the way the first week. Simon would have wondered off and been eaten by ravenous wolves. But all in all, it was an awesome experience. One we won't forget! AND BOY WERE WE EVER GRATEFUL TO RETURN HOME TO OUR NICE SOFT BEDS!

Mallory and Thomas. They are five weeks apart.

The kids are already tired. We are 1/3 mile into the trek. Note Simon lagging in the back.

It's been how long?

2010-09-07T21:40:00.003-06:00

Tomorrow is my 11 year anniversary. That's right. 11 years! I can't believe that I have been married that long! Question is, How can any one person put up with me for that long?

We've been through a lot together.....

3 apartments
6 houses
4 kids
12 cars (at least)
2 dogs
2 cats
11 turtles (who knows?)
several dozen fish
lots of job changes
etc, etc.

But one thing is for sure! I'm sure grateful for Jared and all he does for me! He is such a great dad! (and house cleaner, laundry mat, maid, cook, nanny, etc).

If I were really ambitious I would have a wedding pic on here....but alas, I am too tired! Happy Anniversary Dear!

Terrified....

2010-08-29T21:36:00.003-06:00

That pretty much describes how I feel today. My test is early Tuesday morning and I am terrified. I have studied and studied some more, but for some reason I do not feel like it was enough. Very few things in life have made me feel overwhelmed and frustrated, but this CPA exam sure does. I even had nightmares about it last night. Tomorrow I will hopefully get to study all day then I will leave to Billings about four in the afternoon. I'll get there just in time for dinner and maybe a little shopping to ease my nerves. Then I will get up early Tuesday, hopefully after a GOOD night's rest and TAKE MY TEST.

I think most of my frustration is all the pressure that is on to pass it. And it does not help that I failed the last one. BUT at this point, I've done all the studying I really can and now I'm going on faith! Don't forget to pray for me tomorrow and Tuesday. I will need all the help I can get......

....and then the fun part comes. Waiting for weeks for the results. The anticipation alone could kill me.

Back To School!!!

2010-08-18T21:07:00.003-06:00

You've got to be kidding me! I have NO idea where the summer went. I barely remember it.

But alas, the kids start school in the morning. It just mostly makes me sad. Sad that they are growing up so fast; sad I did not even get to spend time with them this summer; sad that they will now spend the next 9 months gone for 8 hours every day!

But on the bright side! I am very glad they will be getting back into a routine; very glad that they will once again be learning things; and very glad to curb the summer time bordem that has seemed to set in my house.

Next summer I hope to take a very fun and adventurous trip with the family and NOT be studying all the time.

Well, I hope I can sleep tonight along with the kids....they are so excited to be starting school again. Adriana will be in 3rd grade and Simon and Olivia will be in 1st. Poor little Mallory will be all alone during the day......

You Say It Stands For What?

2010-08-08T20:44:00.002-06:00

Wow! I thought Mormons had a lot of acronyms. Turns out the accounting profession is several thousand up on them. My head is starting to swarm with all the abbreviations. I think we should hold a contest for the most original meaning of any of the following accounting terms:

CPA
AICPA
OCBOA
F/S
I/S
I/C
IT
GASB
GAAS
PCAOB
GAGAS
GAAP
GASP
ITF
SEC
MD&A
B/S
MPU
OMB
SSAE
SAS
SSARS
ASB
GAO
ACDO

So, come up with your best stuff. We will take a vote and the winner will receive a special surprise!!!

And This One Thing Shall Rule Them All....

2010-08-04T21:22:00.003-06:00

I shall be unavailable until the end of Nov. Thanksgiving to be exact. Only send me words of encouragement and happy thoughts until then......

...oh! and maybe some triple chocolate cake as brain food.

What's Love Got to Do With It?

2010-07-30T12:30:00.004-06:00

Turns out, everything. After writing my blog "Broken" I have come full circle. It was a rough month or so, but I feel like it will all work out. Life is funny that way. Most of the time when we feel like we can go no further, we do.

It has been a strange week. Things I never thought possible have come to be. I won't go into much detail, but this week I was able to heal a very broken past for me and someone else. I honestly think that it could only have happened this week. Any other time I would not have been open to listening and understanding. Maybe that is why I had to break, so that I could heal.

The most ironic part is that I never thought I needed to heal. Blame and anger are much easier to feel than to have to admit wrong and ask for forgiveness. Come to find out, no one was at fault.

Years ago I thought I was doing the right thing. In a way I was. It was the way it had to be done for me to accept it. What I had done was the completely wrong thing for the other person. The end result would have been the same, but it could have been done without so much pain for both.

I feel like a small hole has finally closed in my heart. It feels nice. I do have a few regrets though. I wish I could contact everyone that I have hurt, intentionally or not and heal those wounds as well.

I just finished reading the book "Dark Angel." It was very entertaining and had a lot of good insight. One part I really liked about the book is when Rose was saying that more damage has been done to people by others with nothing but the best intentions. How true that is.....

Wow!

2010-07-27T22:03:00.001-06:00

I heard this song for the first time a few months ago....and again today. So I decided to look it up. Then I watched this video. Wow! It's one thing to be able to sing beautiful songs; but to do it while twirling through the air, dripping wet? Wow!

Life's Like A Jump Rope

2010-07-26T20:36:00.002-06:00

I love this newer song by Blue October. I do believe it has become my life theme song...

Jump Rope lyrics

Remember how you used to say
You couldn't wait till tomorrow for a brand new day
no fuss when ya had to ride the bus
You just add a little blush
To paralyze your school crush

Now you're older and the weight is on your shoulder
Make the world a little colder
No more hidin in the old day
Be strong
Don't you give up hope
It will get hard
Life's like a jump rope

Up down
Up down
Up down
Up down yeah
Cause it will get hard
Remember life's like a jump rope

Up down
Up down
Up down
Up down yeah
It will get hard
Cause it will get hard

There'll be a bump and there will be a bruise
There'll be alarms and there will be a snooze
There'll be a path that you will have to choose
There'll be a win and there will be a lose and

You gotta hold your head up high and
Watch all the negative go by
Don't ever be ashamed to cry
You go ahead
Cause life's like a jump rope

Up down
Up down
Up down
Up down yeah
It will get hard
Remember life's like a jump rope

Up down
Up down
Up down
Up down yeah
It will get hard
Come on

I want to tell you that everything will be okay
That everything will eventually turn itself to gold
So keep pushing through it all
Don't follow, lead the way
Don't lose yourself or your hope
Cause life's like a jump rope

.........

Where the Road Leads Us....

2010-07-19T23:00:00.003-06:00

It's very interesting how our roads in life turn all sorts of directions. One minute we might think we are headed down the right path. We can see the blue sky above us and the road is flat and paved. And then out of no where there is a sharp u-bend in our perfect road and standing before us is a mountain. It seems impassable with it's sharp turns and narrow ledges. Often times we fall down and get hurt, but somehow, somewhere we find the strength deep within to get back up again and continue climbing.

Step by step we must go; then all of a sudden we have reached the summit and we can glance back quickly and take in a deep breath realizing how far we have come. It is awe inspiring really; especially because at times it seemed like we weren't even moving.

Sometimes it feels like once we reach the top we will have made it. The view is amazing and inspiring. But at the same moment, you realize you now have to climb back down the other side. This is often the hardest part. Moving forward, even when you want to stay put, is a very hard thing.

One thing is for sure, life is an adventure we all must take. Ironically enough, none of us will make it out alive. ;)

Broken...

2010-07-17T22:44:00.002-06:00

I think I'm broken somewhere. The past few months I haven't been myself; back when I knew who myself was. I seem to be on this journey...I can't decide what type of journey it is. It feels mostly mental but I really hate to admit that it might be a journey to find me. So where am I? And why did I leave?

Have you even looked back on your life and thought, wow. I am defiantly not the same person I used to be. Not that this is a bad thing. One thing for sure, I'm not the person I want to be. If you would have asked me just a few months ago where my life was headed I could have told you. I've always had a plan. That plan has had many modifications but I always seem to adapt and stay the course for the most part.

But lately, I have felt lost and alone. Although I am none of these things. So why do I feel this way? Maybe it's hormones. Maybe I've finally broke? The past few weeks I've wanted to crawl into my closet and curl into a ball and cry my eyes out. That is so unlike me. I've been grumpy, impatient, short tempered, and pretty much hard to live with. Of course these qualities are probably what I am usually like.

I feel like all the sad, happy, emotional moments in my life have all caught up with me at once. Everyone knows that I am not an emotional person, but for some reason I am letting it all out. Last night I cried over a friend who died almost 5 years ago. What is that all about?

Maybe if I let it all out I won't feel so frustrated. I just feel like everything I've done over the past several years was for all the wrong reasons. That makes me doubt every decision I've made lately. This is also very out of context for me. Yesterday someone actually told me that I just need to make up my mind and stay with a decision for at lesat 20 minutes.

All I can do is let it go and turn my life over to someone who knows better than me. Then all my doubts will leave because I will no longer have to question why I am doing things.

So as I sit here writing this babble down, tears running down my face, I will just have to accept that fact that it is ok to break every once in awhile.

The Most Painful Letter of the Alphabet

2010-06-21T22:55:00.003-06:00

(Disclaimer: This is just a picture I found, not the actual test.)

Psychic Chocolate

2010-06-18T16:52:00.002-06:00

So, I've been very stressed out these past few weeks; feeling very overwhelmed by all I am required to do.

So I thought to myself, while here at work, "Self, you need some chocolate to make yourself feel better." So off to the junk food cupboard I went. Someone had bought Dove's CHOCOLATES! I love them. So I promptly took one out and sat down to eat it. What did my dove have to say? :

It's OK to not do it all.

Enough said. Even the chocolate gets it. Why can't I?

17 More Days....

2010-05-18T16:31:00.003-06:00

So, 17 more days until we move! We are SO excited!!! This undoubtedly will be the easiest move I've ever made. Why? It's literally just across the street! We will be moving from our single level ranch home with it's 3 bed/ 2 bath - to a European style 2 story home w/ 5 bed /3 bath.

Here are some pics of our new house!!

Dreaming in Color

2010-05-12T20:31:00.003-06:00

So for the last 5 weeks I have studied over 7 hours per day. I do not think I have ever studied this much in my ENTIRE life. I sit for the CPA exam in 11 days. But who is counting. I guess you could say I am nervous. Why?

Last night I dreamed about taking the exam. I actually dreamed what some of the problems where and me trying to work through them. It was really terrifying. It's bad when you wake up in the morning and almost believe the dream was real.

What happened to dreaming about vacations in Hawaii? Or fabulous things like that? Someone once told me that when your mind dreams it is sorting through all the garbage for the day and getting rid of the stress. So I guess I should DREAM ON!

The Rain

2010-05-10T16:12:00.002-06:00

The last few days there has been snow and rain. I am trying to be thankful for it. I have needed to paint the outside of my house for a few weeks now so that we can sell it. But everytime I have time, the weather is uncooperative. So here is why I'm thankful for the rain.....

It makes things green and is helping all my beautiful perennials come up.
It gives us water to drink, and here in the desert that is VERY important.
Because I have not been able to paint the outside, I have had more time to study.
It smells good after a rain storm.

Why are you thankful for the rain?

The Wind

2010-05-04T19:43:00.004-06:00

Today I guess I'm thankful for the wind. Not really, but I'm trying for reverse psychology here. Everyone knows that most of the state of Wyoming equates much wind. Fortunately, here in the Big Horn Basin that is not true. We rarely have wind. But every once in awhile, the wind will start to blow and keep it up for a few days. Today was one of those days. The wind was COLD! It is times like these that I start to think I must live in Wyoming or something! =)

So, I am grateful for the wind for the following reasons. The wind keeps our air clean and pure. Unlike certain parts of Utah (Cache Valley being one), we NEVER have inversion. The wind keeps our skies clear and blue! Another reason I'm thankful for the wind...it creates electricity for my house. There are several wind towers here in WY, not around me obviously...but down towards Rocks Springs. But nonetheless, it makes electricity. I'm also thankful for the wind because it is fun to fly kites in.

Good Friends

2010-05-03T21:53:00.002-06:00

Today I am very grateful for my good friends here in Worland. Over the last few weeks I have had several friends come over to help me scrap, caulk, and repaint the exterior of my house. And my really good friends - they helped me repaint the front of the house twice (I hated the first color).

When things seem overwhelming, it's amazing how many people will step up and help lighten the load. Sometimes all you need to do is ask.....

....and for me, that is the hardest part.

The Joys of Life

2010-05-02T11:18:00.004-06:00

So I've decided that life is very stressful and most of it is caused by me. So instead of focusing on all that I'm supposed to be doing all the time, I'm going to take a moment each day and blog about what I'm grateful for that day. Then all of my other stresses will melt away, right?

Ok, so for today, I'm very grateful for the wonderful children I have. They really are good kids and are all very smart! I've been slacking on my blogging and one awesome thing this last month was Adriana's baptism. (Can she really be that old?) So here are some pictures of her baptism. She actually wanted to give a talk at it. So she wrote the whole thing and did a marvelous job.

We are sure grateful for all the family who made the long treacherous journey to Worland to see her be baptised.

Time to Protest

2010-04-09T21:19:00.002-06:00

So, there is a big tax protest being held on Tax Day, April 15. Everyone who has a issue with SOME part of the current tax system should join. This is not about health care reform, or such and such. It's about us as an American people not liking the way OUR Money is spent, and how much of OUR money is taken from us, while leaving OUR children in debt for their whole lives.....

As my wonderful cousin put it:

A big tax protest will be held in Washington on tax day, 4/15. Here is why I am going:

1 The government squanders so much of our tax dollars that it makes my head spin.

2. The administration is seeking to convince you that it is imperative to raise taxes. The administration is not seeking to to alter its spending.

3. The administration is seeking to redistribute people's wealth. Already 50% of Americans pay no income tax. In fact, for most of these people, the government pays them.

4. Therefore, I believe a peaceful uprising is needed.

You can join me. In addition to the tens of hundreds of thousands of protesters that will be in Washington, over 250,000 have joined a virtual march on Washington, with your own avatar. Join the march here, and be sure to watch the news on the fifteenth:http://www.onlinetaxrevolt.com

A Notice That Strikes Fear

2010-03-30T20:35:00.000-06:00

So today I received a small piece of paper, that said NTS. And even though I knew it was coming, it still struck me with fear. Why? NTS stands for Notice to Sit. Sit for the CPA Exam that is. 6 months is how long I have.

I have been trying to study for this exam since last July. Shortly after Mallory was born. But I have found little time to do so. So, being the procrastinator and needed motivation, I decided to send in my application to receive my NTS. At the time it seemed like a good idea. It would give me a deadline and force me to study.

6 months? I am starting to doubt my decision. Sitting for the CPA exam is much like studying for the Bar in Law School, but not quite so difficult. I am wondering if I'll find the time and am seriously contemplating forking out a few more thousand to take one of the those fancy prep classes......

Wish me luck!! I'll need it. =)

Life As We Know It

2010-03-14T22:43:00.003-06:00

This time of life is very busy. I dare say it doesn't slow down. Kids get older and life seems to become more hectic. Every once in awhile I have a brief second to wonder what it is I want from life and what I want for my kids.....

I guess it comes down to happiness. No one knows how their kids will turn out, when their family members will die, or where life will take them; but we can all only hope that for the brief time we have together that we are happy and love each other. I just want my kids to know that they are loved and that I'll love them no matter what.

I will always remember something my dad told me as a teenager. I believe this was during a conversation between him and I and I was probably being a brat and telling him what a rotten father he was (turns out he wasn't). But he said, "You'll one day learn how hard it is to be a parent....and the only thing we as parents can hope for is that our children turn out to be better parents than we are." I remember thinking, well that's a weird thing to say and in the same thought of course I'll be a better parent because I'll let my kids do more things!

Oh how funny life is. I would have to say at this point that there might be a few points that I feel I'm better at, but overall I can't really say for sure that I'm a better parent than my were. I'm scared for when my are teenagers.

Well, that was totally random. But I must admit that I did have some great parents and all they ever wanted for me was for me to be truly happy. The only way any of us are truly happy is when we are happy inside and with ourselves. Nothing will bring us happiness....we have to find it within.

Chickenpox? Are you sure?

2010-03-10T21:14:00.000-07:00

So here is how my day started out. Twins (Olivia mostly) comes in and wakes me and the baby up. Crying baby, Jared telling me he has to go to work, Olivia crying she doesn't like school and is not going, and Adriana and Simon dressed and ready...waiting for the bus.

Olivia proceeds to go back into her room and get back into her pajamas! It's 7:15 am. I have a terrible head cold and my throat is trying to kill me from the inside out. I think about how I wish I could send everyone away and crawl back into bed. I get up get dressed and tell Oliva she will be late to school. The other two get on the bus.

Load Olivia and Mallory into the van at 8:45. Olivia is now very late to school and I'm late to work. On my way to the babysitters, I realize Jared did not sign the bank papers. So I decide to swing by there on the way to the babysitters, on the way to school, and the way to work. Right before I get to his office my cell phone rings....Hi KayLynn this is Debbie at the school. (I am thinking she is calling to tell me that Olivia was marked absent and is she home sick). You need to come pick up Simon because he has the chickenpox. Me: He what? Debbie: He has the chickenpox. Me: Are you sure? He was fine when he left for school. (Now I am thinking in my mind, did I even see Simon before he left for school? Did he have them then? And my last thought was, I DON'T HAVE TIME FOR THIS!!)

Ok, I was just going to bring Olivia to school, so I guess I'll pick him up. Jared then signs the papers, I call the babysitter and inform her that I'll probably not be bringing Mallory over for about a week and then drive to the school. Sure enough the child has a fever and has broken out in chickenpox all over his face and body. Poor thing.

I am starting to wonder why he didn't say something earlier, like that he didn't feel well or something...just then my thoughts are interrupted by Simon starting to cry. I assume he's crying because he's covered in itchy spots and has a fever. What's wrong Simon? Why won't they let me stay at school? I don't want to go home! I want to stay here. Seriously, the child is upset because he feels they are kicking him out. I tell him not to worry, he now gets to play the Wii everyday while his red spots clear up. That makes him happy!

They also tell me that I should just keep Olivia home because she'll probably get them. So then I say, do you want me to take Adriana as well? No, we checked her and she doesn't show any signs of them. I think to myself...neither does Olivia.

Oh well. Spent the rest of the day trying to keep those two entertained and not fighting. Meanwhile, Mallory doesn't want me to put her down. I didn't get a thing done at home, and now I'm even further behind that I was yesterday at work.

Best part is, it will probably take 2-3 weeks to spread between all the kids. How fun. Curse them chickens and their pox.

What happened to January, February, and the first half of March?

2010-03-08T21:32:00.003-07:00

It amazes me how fast time flies. I remember thinking in January how sad it was that I would be returning to work and sending my baby off to the sitters house. Now it's the middle of March, and my baby has started to crawl.

I remember always thinking as a child that the days were so long and time would pass so slowly. Especially when anticipating a huge event. My mom used to always tell me how fast time would fly by and how quickly us kids were growing up. I thought she was crazy. It seemed I would never be old.

Now, the days pass by in a blink and my kids are getting so big! I have grey hair and wrinkles. Next thing you know, I'll be 40 and have teenagers!!

The twins will be turning 6 next week. I'm not exactly sure when they grew up. I barely recall them as babies. They can read and write and call me at work. It is almost sad in a way. I should have enjoyed them more as babies, but at the time it was all I could do to get through one day.

Adriana will be 8 in a few weeks and she's so excited to be baptized. I remember when she was my only child and we were free to come and go as we pleased. She is such a good kid and very smart. I'm afraid she'll be a teenager before I know what hit me.

Well, I'm not sure where this post was going, or if it went anywhere. I was just sitting here thinking how fast things go by and it seems that I waste a lot of my days doing who knows what?

100 days late and $1000 short.

2010-01-31T21:49:00.001-07:00

So it seems like I never have time to blog anymore. All I do is run from place to place. I went back to work full time last week and the stress is taking its toll. It really makes me wonder how I did it last year. Last year I was pregnant, full time for tax season, finishing my last semester of grad school, and YW pres. This year I don't have school, and I'm not pregnant. Who knows? Maybe 4 kids is just too much to handle with everything else?!

Although, I can't believe tomorrow begins the month of February. Where does the time go? I am over 30 now and that is just crazy. 30 used to seem so old!! But I would have to say, even though I have dozens of grey hair and several wrinkles....I don't feel old! =)

So back to my headline for this blog. I seem to always be slightly behind and I just can't get caught up. My house would prove this. I can only manage to get one room clean a day and then by the next day it is dirty again. And I always seem to be a thousand dollars short of whatever I need. Hopefully going back to work will help solve this problem!!!

We are hoping to start the remodel on our house in the next month. I'm still not 100% sure of what we are doing in this remodel....I just know that somewhere we are going to build on more space. Living in this small confined house is taking it's toll.

Mallory will be seven months old this week. I can't believe that. One day she'll probably just start talking. She is a darling baby! We enjoy her SO much~ But at this point, I wish she had her own room. Having the crib jammed in the corner makes for really tight spaces. The twins are back sharing a room. I think if houses had seams.....our's would be busting!!! Maybe we should go live in the shop! I think it has more room!

Enough of my whining and complaining. Things are really good and we are very blessed. I look forward to spring so my kids can go outside again. I can't wait for the flowers to start growing again!

Tax Class

2010-01-12T19:07:00.001-07:00

So I just returned for a 16 hour class on the tax law changes for this year. As exciting as that Doesn't sound, there was actually some interesting things. One thing is for sure, there were plenty of idiotic laws that make no sense what so ever put into place. And point two, as much as Congress says they need to simplify the tax code, it just gets more complex every year.

But I guess one good thing can be said about it, I will ALWAYS have a job!! =)

Winter In Wyoming

2010-01-02T20:35:00.002-07:00

It’s winter in Wyoming ,

And the gentle breezes blow;

Seventy miles an hour,

at twenty-five below.

Oh, how I love Wyoming,

when the snow's up to your butt.

You take a breath of winter,

and your nose gets frozen shut.

Yes, the weather here is wonderful,

So I guess I'll hang around.

I could never leave Wyoming ,

My butt is frozen to the ground.

Pay It Forward

2009-10-21T20:37:00.002-06:00

So my darling cousin Lori put the Pay It Forward on her blog....and so now I'm putting it on mine!!!

I'll make something (but I can't promise it will be good) for the first three people to comment on this post.

Those three people need to have a blog and post the PIF Game so the fun keeps going. I have one year to send a goodie package to you.

Make sure I know how to get a hold of you! And make sure you PIF~

Why God Made Moms!

2009-10-16T09:48:00.002-06:00

WHY GOD MADE MOMS

Answers given by 2nd grade school children to the following questions:

Why did God make mothers?
1. She's the only one who knows where the scotch tape is.
2. Mostly to clean the house.
3. To help us out of there when we were getting born.

How did God make mothers?
1. He used dirt, just like for the rest of us.
2. Magic plus super powers and a lot of stirring.
3. God made my mom just the same like he made me. He just used bigger parts.

What ingredients are mothers made of?
1. God makes mothers out of clouds and angel hair and everything nice in the world and one dab of mean..
2. They had to get their start from men's bones. Then they mostly use string, I think.

Why did God give you your mother and not some other mom?
1.. We're related.
2. God knew she likes me a lot more than other people's mom like me.

What kind of a little girl was your mom?
1. My mom has always been my mom and none of that other stuff.
2. I don't know because I wasn't there, but my guess would be pretty bossy..
3. They say she used to be nice..

What did mom need to know about dad before she married him?
1. His last name.
2. She had to know his background. Like is he a crook? Does he get drunk on beer?
3. Does he make at least $800 a year? Did he say NO to drugs and YES to chores?

Why did your mom marry your dad?
1. My dad makes the best spaghetti in the world. And my mom eats a lot
2. She got too old to do anything else with him.
3. My grandma says that mom didn't have her thinking cap on.

Who's the boss at your house?
1.. Mom doesn't want to be boss, but she has to because dad's such a goof ball.
2. Mom. You can tell by room inspection. She sees the stuff under the bed.
4. I guess mom is, but only because she has a lot more to do than dad.

What's the difference between moms and dads?
1. Moms work at work and work at home and dads just go to work at work.
2. Moms know how to talk to teachers without scaring them.
3. Dads are taller and stronger, but moms have all the real power 'cause that's who you got to ask if you want to sleep over at your friends.
4. Moms have magic, they make you feel better without medicine.

What does your mom do in her spare time?
1. Mothers don't do spare time.
2. To hear her tell it, she pays bills all day long.

What would it take to make your mom perfect?
1. On the inside she's already perfect.. Outside, I think some kind of plastic surgery.
2. Diet. You know, her hair. I'd diet, maybe blue.

If you could change one thing about your mom, what would it be?
1. She has this weird thing about me keeping my room clean. I'd get rid of that.
2. I'd make my mom smarter. Then she would know it was my sister who did it not me.
3. I would like for her to get rid of those invisible eyes in the back of her head.

Hula Monsters and Moms

2009-10-15T09:07:00.004-06:00

The other day Simon returned home from school to give me his daily report on all that they did. On that particular day he was telling me they learned about the Hula Monster. (Which is really the Gila Monster, pronounced Hila Monster.) He said that Mrs. Miller had been showing them pictures of this lizard and all the spots and bumps it has on the back of its head and down it's back. Then she asked the class if these spots made it look like it had eyes on the back of it's head!

Simon, knowing many great things, raised his hand and said, "Mrs. Miller, the hula monster can't have eyes on the back of it's head, because only MOM'S DO!" Then he asked her how come dad's don't have eyes on the back of their heads? Mrs. Miller told him that it was something only mom's can have.

Then he looks at me seriously and says, "Mom when did you get those eyes on the back of your head. Adriana and Olivia are girls too, but they don't have any eyes on the back. Do they just grow there when you become a mom?!"

By now I was laughing, but he was completely serious. I started to think why Simon would believe that mom's have eyes on the back of there heads, and I remembered that a few months prior Simon was trying to sneak something out of the kitchen and I had my back to him. Without turning around, I said Simon you better put that back right now and get out of there before you get in trouble! He squealed and said, HOW DO YOU KNOW WHAT I AM DOING WHEN YOU CAN'T SEE ME!

My reply, "I have eyes in the back of my head!"

More on the Gila Monster

Mallory Starts to Laugh

2009-09-27T20:15:00.002-06:00

So this has been a fun week! Mallory has started laughing. I love it when she laughs. It brightens my whole day! I have been trying to get her to laugh while I have the camcorder on, but for some reason she won't!

Today I was recording the kids singing happy birthday to Nate, so we could email it to him over in Afghanistan, seems how we can't call him. While I was downloading the video to the computer, I noticed the twins had been making videos again. It amazes me that they can run the camcorder so well. Anyway......there was this video of them making Mallory laugh!

I think it's adorable.....

Can It Be Done?

2009-09-14T21:44:00.002-06:00

So everyone knows that when it comes to remodels, I get a little crazy. I have taken on some HUGE projects that turned out beautifully. Take my Binford house for example. People thought I was nuts for buying that ruin down house. And when we were done, it was the best one on the block.

So now I have a new challenge. We live here in this small town of Worland, and to say the least, the housing choices are sub par. Don't get me wrong - there are some beautiful houses here. Most of them only have 3 bedrooms though.

When we moved here we bought a 70's rambler that looks a lot like our parents' houses. It is one level with 3 small bedrooms. It was a tight fit before, but now with Mallory it is squishy! We also really love it here in Worland and don't necessarily want to move again. Even better, we love our neighborhood! It is the best one in the entire county (and no I'm not making that up!)

The task at hand is how to get more room. We could dig out a basement, but that seems crazy. We could add a wing out the back, etc. For those who know me really well, my pet peeve is when people add onto their house and everyone can tell! The only way to add on is to make sure it looks like that is the way it was built!

After looking at all the options, the likely choice is to go up! The real question is can we pull it off? Do you think I can take this house......

and turn it into this?

Mallory's Blessing Dress

2009-08-10T09:20:00.004-06:00

While we were in Utah, we blessed Mallory there so all the family could be with us. We had fun shopping for a blessing dress, and somehow ended up with the puffiest dress we could find. Jared couldn't believe that I would spend $50 on a dress that she would wear once and for less than 5 minutes. Oh well! She sure looks darling!

Our Newest Addition

2009-07-14T15:38:00.002-06:00

So...turns out the squishy blob was a girl! And a cute one at that!!

Mallory Dalebout was born on July 7, 2009 at 8:40 am. It was a very long labor! 29 hours to be exact!! She weighed 7 lbs 10 oz and was 20 inches long!

We are sure happy that she is here! She is a good baby and her sisters and brother love her so much!

And the baby is a.....?

2009-06-27T17:53:00.004-06:00

Squishy Blob?!

A few weeks ago we went into the doctor for an ultrasound to find out why my stomach is so LARGE! The doctor was worried that I was going to give birth to a 10 pound baby. My stomach measured 44 cm and at that point it should have only measured 36cm. Anyway.....

The baby was about 7 pounds at the time so all was well. At the same time, the anticipation of not knowing the child's gender as been eating away at Jared. So he decided to find out what it was...well, the technician wasn't sure because the child's hand was in the way.

So she took a picture of the "gender part" and put it on CD so we could see for ourselves. So here is the ultrasound shot! It appears to me that we are having a squishy blob.

What do you think this is a picture of? Girl part or boy part?

Ok...so here is a better shot of the baby's bottom from February. Again, can't really tell...but go ahead and guess! It's a 50/50 shot!

The State Results are In!!

2009-05-29T16:18:00.001-06:00

We finally heard about Adriana's story that went to the state level. The newspaper published the results! We hope they send us the story now so we can finally read it! We are very proud of her! Most kids from the area that took a first place did not get anything; so for her to receive a honorable mention is fantastic!!!

Here is the newspaper article:

Wyoming’s Young Authors winners announced

WORLAND — Following is a list of area youth named as winners of the recent Wyoming State Young Authors competition. The announcement came from Kelcie Schelling, Lakeway Learning Center facilitator secretary.
• Adriana Dalebout, South Side Elementary School — A Great Snowy Day (F); honorable mention.
• Isfahan Khan, Worland High School — The Journey (F); first place.
• Samantha Compton, Worland High School — Bloody Shades of Grey (F); honorable mention.
• Dane Bennett, West Side Elementary School — A Hot Day on the Sundance Formation (NF); first place.
• Skyler McClure, Worland High School — Power Sources in the Year of 2050 (NF); honorable mention.
• Shaynie Bauer, Ralph Witters Elementary School, Thermopolis — Nature (NF); honorable mention.
• Marshall Blom, Worland High School — Tellus Cado, honorable mention poetry.

She Won Again!

2009-05-20T15:01:00.002-06:00

Apparently Adriana's teacher entered her poem into another contest and it was selected to be published in the Young Poet's Collection!!! So, once again, she was on the front page of the paper!!

That girl is too smart!!!

YOUNG POETS: South Side Elementary students (from left) Brianna Maul, Meghan Webster, Myra Deniz and Adriana Dalebout may only be in first grade, but they are all published authors who have had their poems added to the 2008-2009 Young Poets Collection, said teacher Lori Feather. Young Poets Collection is designed to provide an opportunity for children to share their creative work with others and further the enjoyment that writing can bring to their own lives, according to information from Lynn Straw, one of the collection editors. Poems were selected for their creativeness, use of language and appearance.

I Love Books!

2009-05-17T18:25:00.003-06:00

So, the past few weeks I've had nothing but time on my hands. Without work or school, I find myself void of things to do! Oh! Well of course there is always yard work, cleaning, laundry, etc. But my midsection does not like me to bend over at this point, and vacuuming makes me winded.

So, the other day I was driving around town after dropping the kids off at singing lessons and found myself at the library. It's been awhile since I've visited the library for myself. I do not know what good books there are, so I wandered around the ENTIRE library for an hour. Obviously our library isn't that big.

As I wandered around, I realized there is so much to read and learn! I mean, it could take me months just to read the section on Wyoming's history! (Not that I'd want to!) So I found a few good books, and a few very boring books. And I've read quite a few books in just the last week.

Does anyone have any good suggestions of books I can read? The only problem would be is if the library carries them!! I have 7.5 weeks until this kid is born, so I should be able to get alot of reading in, right?

Thanks in advance for suggesting books and happy reading to ya'll! (That's my WY drawl!)

All Good Things Must Come to an End!!

2009-05-07T10:39:00.002-06:00

So it's official. They are going to let me graduate on Saturday. :::huge sigh::::

I never thought I'd actually make it to this point! I started back to get my Master's degree when the twins were almost one! They are now 5!!!!! So I guess you can say it's taken awhile. But in my defense, I had to get a 2nd bachelor's degree first!

So Saturday at 10 am I will be officially done with school FOREVER!! The graduation is in Lynchburg, VA and obviously being over 7 months pregnant....I won't be going! But that's ok, I only want the piece of paper that says I'm done!

Just so everyone is aware...If I ever say I want to go back to school again, SOMEONE PLEASE SLAP ME! I have sworn it off forever! Granted that I'll always be learning things and have classes to take to maintain my CPA license, but NO MORE COLLEGE!!!

And the Winner Is......

2009-04-16T11:48:00.003-06:00

Adriana!!!

(She is the one in the middle on the front row.....in the long beautiful dress of course!)

Her teacher had entered one of her fiction stories in the Young Authors Contest and she won first place for her grade!! Her story has now gone onto the state level and will be judged in the next few weeks! She was very excited and we are so proud of her! She is so smart.

Here is what the newspaper said:

WORLAND — Young writers from first grade through high school gathered at the Worland Middle School auditorium to celebrate their writing accomplishments during the annual Young Author Celebration Tuesday.

Young Author winners were:
• First Grade — Fiction: First, Adriana Dalebout for “A Great Snowy Day,” second, Julie Seidel for “My Best Day,” third, Tatum Zimmerman for “My New Pet.”
Nonfiction: First, Regan Schmeltzer for “Warriors,” second, BreAnna Parra for “Diesel and Ally,” third, Wyatt Wyman for “Ice Cave Adventures.”

Adriana also won first place in the spelling bee a few weeks ago! Hooray!

Teddy Bear Clinic

2009-03-26T20:37:00.003-06:00

Simon and Olivia went to a Teddy Bear Clinic yesterday for Preschool. The local medical clinic hosts this clinic for the kids. They bring their teddy bears and learn about checkups, x-rays, shots, etc. I guess it's supposed to make going to the doctor not so scary. Anyway, the Newspaper crew was there again, and got pics of the kids. So here they are.

Tricia Paxton, of Big Horn Clinic in Basin, helps Worland Preschool student Olivia Dalebout put on a cap and mask during Wednesday's Teddy Bear Clinic.

Simon Dalebout checks out his stuffed animal's teeth with help from Dr. Jason Weyer as fellow preschooler Britton Core watches. The students from Worland Preschool were at Big Horn Clinic Wednesday for the first annual Teddy Bear Clinic to introduce them to medical and emergency services and make going to the doctor a little less scary. (Caption from Newspaper)

Unfortunately, we have been able to experience all sorts of doctor visits already! From x-rays, to stitches, to broken bones, and broken heads. Let's just hope this unborn kid isn't as accident prone as these two!!

My Babies

2009-03-17T21:11:00.004-06:00

My babies turn 5 on Thursday. I can't believe they are that old! I even registered them for kindergarten last week! Where as the time gone? They have turned into quite the little characters. (If you don't believe me, see blog below.) Here are some pics of them from the other day.....

Aren't they so cute! Go ahead, tell me how cute they are!! This bottom pic really shows how similiar and different they are! It cracks me up!

Kids Ask the Darnest Questions...

2009-03-15T15:57:00.003-06:00

So since becoming pregnant, I have been bombarded with strange questions from my children. I decided to compile them here. These are totally random and in no particular order....

Simon: "How do you know when you are pregnant?" - You just know, and sometimes you feel sick and throw up. When I am sick and throw up, does that mean I am pregnant? No, you have to be a girl. Is Adriana pregnant when she throws up? No, she's not old enough. How old do you have to be? You have to be married! But how do you know you are pregnant? I'll tell you when you are older.

Olivia & Simon: These two come up to me with strange, mischievous looks on their faces. What are you two doing? Olivia holds out to hand, to reveal my cell phone. Simon wants to know if you will swallow this cellphone so we can call the baby!! Go to your rooms.

Adriana: Mom, how exactly did that baby get inside of your stomach? I'll tell you when you are older.

Olivia: Climbs into bed with me. Mom, why do you have to drive so far to see that doctor? (It's 1.75 hours away). Because there aren't any doctors around here. But why do you even need a doctor? He helps me have the baby and makes sure things are OK. But Mary didn't need a doctor. (As in, Mary, the mother of Christ.) We all can't be like Mary. So why does that lady on Prince Caspian scream when she is having her baby? It hurts sometimes when the baby comes out. Do you scream like that? NO, daddy holds my hand so I don't have to scream. Then why wasn't anyone holding her hand and where was the doctor? OK, OK. The truth is, I go to the doctor because he gives me special medicine that makes it so it doesn't hurt when the baby is born, so I don't scream, and no one has to hold my hand. Do they cut your bones? No. Where does the baby come out? Out a special baby hole. Can I see it? No, its not there yet, because the baby isn't ready to come out. Daddy told me that they cut me out of your stomach. Yes they did. Why didn't I come out the baby hole? Because your brother was laying sideways and didn't fit that way. Oh.

Simon: When the baby is ready to come out, do you throw him up? No, I don't throw up babies. Britton at school told that you poop the baby out. No, that is disgusting. Then how does that baby get out? I'll tell you later.

Olivia: Does the baby poop inside of your stomach? No, that's disgusting.

Simon: How come we can't hear the baby crying from inside your stomach? Because it doesn't cry in there because it doesn't have any air. Then how does it live? Adriana: It's not alive Simon, it's dead until it's born. No, it's not dead, the baby is alive, it just doesn't need to breath yet.

Olivia: Why can't the baby just come out of there, I really need him!! He's not big enough to come out. But I need him!

At the doctors office during an ultrasound: Simon: How does that thing take a picture of the baby? Doctor: It sends sound waves into your mom's stomach and they form a picture of the baby. Simon: But how does that thing know how to make sounds and how does it show us the picture? Doctor: If you can figure all that out kid, you are smarter than me. Simon then proceeds to ask him about every piece of machinery in the office. Doctor: Ok, look at the baby it's sucking it's thumb! Olivia: How does the baby eat? Doctor: Your mom eats food and the vitamins and minerals from that food go into the baby's stomach through a cord. You all had cords and now that is where your belly button is. (Right before I leave from this appointment, the doctor looks at me tired, and says, are you sure you don't want me to tie your tubes?)~~A few weeks later.....I am eating some chocolate cake. Olivia: Mom, does cake have vitamins and minerals, and should you be eating that? Yes, cake does. Go to your room.

Several weeks later, I had a few oreos: Olivia: Can I have one? Yes, here you go. How come I only get one and you get two? This one is for me and this one is for the baby. That's not fair and oreos don't have any vitamins or minerals. Go to your room.

Let the Battle of the Names Begin!!

2009-02-22T21:26:00.002-07:00

So, it has come to the point in my pregnancy that we've starting to think about possible names. I know it seems a little early, but this sometimes takes us months.

Seems how we decided not to find out what the sex of the child is going to be, we will have to come up with one of each name. I hate naming children. It causes hurt feelings and tension in my life. Jared and I have a hard time agreeing on names...

So, I'm going to enlist everyone's help!! I want you all to post your favorite boy and girl name! Here are some things to consider:
1. The last name Dalebout...not everything goes with such a name.
2. Don't suggest your own kids names...they are for your kids, not mine. =)
3. My other 3 kids names have all been around for centuries - maybe we should stick to the pattern.
4. Middle names can also be suggested...but only if it's a boy.
5. We reserve the right to not pick any of the suggested names.

Thanks for helping out! May the best name win!

Funny Video About Female Drivers

2009-02-20T12:58:00.002-07:00

This video is so funny!!

Turbo Tax

2009-01-25T20:06:00.004-07:00

For all of you you've asked me where they should have their taxes done, and just have a W-2, and such. Use TurboTax.com. They have a free online edition if you qualify with certain income and filing restrictions. If you just have W-2's and make under 60K, you qualify. Then you can e-file your return for free and get your refund faster! Click here for the Free Edition. For those of you that live in a state with income tax, I believe that Turbo Tax will then charge you 14.95 and efile your state return as well!

Also, this year, you need to know how much your rebate stimulus check was. You can find that on the IRS website at this link.

Let the Taxing Begin!

2009-01-16T19:13:00.002-07:00

So, tax season has come once again. For people like me, it actually never ends. I do tax returns all year round. How you ask? Between extensions, and businesses that have different year ends, that is all I do.

So why do I care if tax season starts again? Because the craziness starts! There is such an on pouring of tax returns that my desk looks like a bomb hit it!

And here's a thought! For those of you that procrastinate your taxes until the very last! DON'T! This reason alone should be enough....after 4 months of taxes night and day, day and night, your accountant's brain if fried. Chances are, your return might not be as good as if you had got around to it sooner!

Happy taxing to all!

Is it Spring yet?

2009-01-08T21:10:00.002-07:00

Can I just say that I'm ready for Spring? I am really tired of the cold, ice, and wind. I want to see birds again; the green grass growing, the trees budding, flowers coming up out of the ground!

Call me crazy! But I'm done with winter. I usually enjoy winter. It's one of my favorite seasons. I can't really explain this sudden urge for warmth. (It could be that I could then banish my children to the outside!)

Maybe I should move somewhere that has Spring year round!!

Looking Forward Into 2009!

2009-01-02T09:20:00.003-07:00

2008 was a pretty great year! At times it was hard getting used to living here in WY, but we've passed the one year mark. 2009 is going to be a VERY exciting year! There are many things to look forward to:

1. Tax Season officially starts next week. I'm actually pretty excited about it. I especially enjoy the full-time money! =)

2. Graduation!! I will finally graduate with my Masters in Accounting on May 8!! I don't think I've ever been so excited about anything in my whole life! So this is my last semester and mark my word - I AM DONE WITH SCHOOL FOREVER!!! I will then study all summer so that I can sit for the CPA exam in the fall!!

3. I guess I can't really hide the fact anymore that I'm pregnant AGAIN! We are very excited and the baby is due July 12. So that is the next big thing planned for 2009. The kids are very excited and Simon really wants a little brother. When the baby is born, Adriana will be 7 and Simon and Olivia will be 5. So I should have lots of helpers.

4. In August, ALL 3 of the kids will go to school ALL DAY! The twins will start kindergarten and Adriana will be in 2nd grade. I'm not sure when my kids got so big, but I guess that just means that I'm older too! Also, in August it will mark our 2 year anniversary in Worland. If Jared agrees that we are done moving at that point, then we are planning on adding a second story to our house. I know, I always have lofty ambitions!

5. In September it will be my and Jared's 10 year anniversary! I know, we are old. Jared wanted to go on a cruise or something, but seems how we'll have a new baby and hoping to be adding on - we'll probably postpone this!

6. All the in between time and the end of the year we are just goign to have fun and enjoy life!!!

I hope you all had a marvelous Christmas and a fabulous New Year! I'll try to post more often, but with tax season and my last semester starting, don't plan on it!

Little Baby

2008-12-18T17:23:00.002-07:00

Little Baby Video

My young women and I will be singing this song in Sacrament on Sunday. It is a very beautiful song. Enjoy!

Quote by Thomas Jefferson

2008-12-15T15:14:00.001-07:00

Here are some interesting quotes by Thomas Jefferson:

When we get piled upon one another in large cities, as in Europe, we shall become as corrupt as Europe . Thomas Jefferson

The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not. Thomas Jefferson

It is incumbent on every generation to pay its own debts as it goes. A principle which if acted on would save one-half the wars of the world. Thomas Jefferson

I predict future happiness for Americans if they can prevent the government from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of taking care of them.
Thomas Jefferson

My reading of history convinces me that most bad government results from too much government. Thomas Jefferson

No free man shall ever be debarred the use of arms.
Thomas Jefferson

The strongest reason for the people to retain the right to keep and bear arms is, as a last resort, to protect themselves against tyranny in government.
Thomas Jefferson

The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.
Thomas Jefferson

To compel a man to subsidize with his taxes the propagation of ideas which he disbelieves and abhors is sinful and tyrannical.
Thomas Jefferson

Very Interesting Quote

In light of the present financial crisis, it's interesting to read what Thomas Jefferson said in 1802:

'I believe that banking institutions are more dangerous to our liberties than standing armies. If the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their currency, first by inflation, then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will grow up around the banks will deprive the people of all property until their children wake-up homeless on the continent their fathers conquered.'

Are you ready for the snow?

2008-12-07T21:21:00.003-07:00

Check out this funny video!!

The Grocery Store Bagger

2008-11-24T21:27:00.001-07:00

My friend sent me this video...it's so touching!

The Grocery Store Bagger

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!

Update on Life

2008-11-23T15:40:00.001-07:00

So for starters, we found out Thursday that it wasn't cancer!! Thank goodness.

The doctor doesn't know what is making Olivia have bald spots, but just wants to inject steroids into her head. I said no thanks. So we are working on other possibilities. The day after we took her to the doctor she was jumping on my bed and cracked her head open. So we went back again. Fun ey! Luckily it wasn't very deep so they just glued it back together.

This week my mom and dad and sisters are coming for Thanksgiving! The kids are very excited. It will be nice to have them here.

As for me...I'm looking forward to school being over for this semester in 3 weeks. I just can't wait til I am done!!

Thanks for all the words of encouragement and support! I'll try to post more later.

Does it really matter after all?

2008-11-17T21:30:00.002-07:00

So I was thinking today about if I really care who is President? Or if Gay's have marriage rights? Or if they raise taxes?

When things are hard and trying in your own life, I don't think it really does matter. What am I talking about you ask? ::::Sigh:::: It has been a very hard month for family, self, etc.

In the last two weeks alone, my grandfather had a heart attack (luckily he is OK and home again), my brother and his wife are expecting a baby (which is totally awesome!), my sister has been going through some hard times in her own little family, Jared's grandparents are going to be 99 and his grandpa is not doing well, my little girl Olivia's hair starting falling out and has bald spots (we go to the doctor tomorrow) and today my mother had surgery to find out if she has breast cancer or not.

So as I sat and pondered all these scary and in Eric's case, awesome things, I decided that it doesn't matter who is president. Because they are not going to fix my family, they cannot grant health to people, they cannot make sure I pass my tests, they cannot help sell my lot in Logan, they cannot ensure that my children will live long and happy lives, and they are definitely not going to make sure my mom is OK.

No, I've decided that really only God can do these things. I've also had to come to a realization that even though God is the only one who is capable of all things, it doesn't mean that the way I want things to turn out is what is going to happen. It has been a very emotional and trying month; I'm hoping things take a drastic turn upward before the holidays.

I'm not complaining; my family and I have been so blessed. And we have so much compared to some and our trails are small. But today I feel overwhelmed and frightened. I'm trying to be strong. So I guess the point of this little blog today is to say, Pray for me and my family that everything that is going on right now will get better and that everything will just be OK.

P.S. We found out on Wed what is going on with my mom.

Trying to Simplify

2008-11-10T21:29:00.002-07:00

I've been on a quest to simplify my life. The less the better. And not even in the "stuff" sense. In the "to do" sense. I feel like all I do is run around, make phone calls, work, do homework, etc etc. I don't ever have time to read anything fun, or even play with my kids!

So to continue on this simplification quest, I am honestly thinking about cancelling our Internet, cell phones, cable TV, etc. Not only will it save a load of money! It will help me concentrate on what is important.

What are your thoughts on how to simplify one's life? And can we live without all the modern conveniences and technology?!

So Let's Vote Already!!!

2008-11-01T21:27:00.002-06:00

Can I just say that I am sick and tired of the political circus?! I say, "Let's vote already and get it over with!!!" Never in my short life have I remembered an election year such as this! It seems like we've been at the political bantering for over a year!! Enough is enough!

I can honestly say that I am very much looking forward to Wednesday. Then maybe the media can remember that there are other things going on in the world!!

Who am I voting for?! I am still undecided. Crazy, I know. I just can't bring myself to vote for any of those running. Maybe I'll just write in myself. At least I agree with the issues that are important to me.

So everyone remember to GET OUT AND VOTE on Tuesday! And Heaven help us (America) with whomever wins!!

I found this funny picture about Nobody. It made me laugh; because Nobody usually does a lot of things at my house too!!

Carving Pumpkins with the Missionaries!

2008-10-28T22:05:00.008-06:00

Last night for FHE, the kids carved pumpkins with Elder Caldwell and Elder Cox! They had a blast and love having the missionaries over! Here is some pictures of the event! Elder Caldwell tearing open his mini M&M's. The kids showing off their beautiful pumpkins!! This is Simon working hard on his pumpkin! He didn't want any help! These are the two fine elders that we get to have over at our house. The tall one is Elder Cox (I nicknamed him Andre the Giant) and the less tall one is Elder Caldwell (He can be sensitive about his height next to Elder Cox, but who wouldn't)! Here Elder Caldwell is explaining to Olivia the importance of properly removing the guts!! Jared is supervising!

The kids and Elders are cleaning out the pumpkins!

Here the kids are showing me their yucky hands! I told the Elders that I would put the video on here so their moms could see it! Elder Caldwell caught on and is saying hi to his mom. Elder Cox didn't quite get what I was saying and thought it strange to be saying hi to mom!

Elder Caldwell wanted a treat but couldn't eat it because his hands were nasty. So he thought it would be a good idea to have the kids feed him! I think he was hoping more in the lines of being waited on; but turns out his plan backfired!! The kids feed him more like a dog! Check it out!

Write-In Candidate (UPDATED)

2008-10-24T19:57:00.008-06:00

I HAVE DECIDED TO BECOME A WRITE-IN CANDIDATE.
HERE IS MY PLATFORM:

(1) 'Press 1 for English' is immediately banned. English is the official language; speak it or wait at the border until you can.

(2) We will immediately go into a two year isolationist posture to straighten out the country's attitude. NO imports, no exports. We will use the 'Wal-Mart's policy, 'If we ain't got it, you don't need it.'

(3) When imports are allowed, there will be a 100% import tax on it.

(4) All retired military personnel will be required to man one of our many observation towers on the southern border. (six month tour) They will be under strict orders not to fire on SOUTHBOUND aliens.

(5) Social security will immediately return to its original state. If you didn't put nuttin in, you ain't gettin nuttin out. The president nor any other politician will not be able to touch it.

(6) Welfare - Checks will be handed out on Fridays at the end of the 40 hour school week and the successful completion of urinalysis and a passing grade.

(7) Professional Athletes --Steroids - The FIRST time you check positive you're banned for life.

(8) Crime - We will adopt the Turkish method, the first time you steal, you lose your right hand. There is no more life sentences. If convicted, you will be put to death by the same method you chose for your victim; gun, knife, strangulation, etc.

(9) One export will be allowed; Wheat, The world needs to eat. A bushel of wheat will be the exact price of a barrel of oil.

(10) All foreign aid using American taxpayer money will immediately cease, and the saved money will pay off the national debt and ultimately lower taxes. When disasters occur around the world, we'll ask the American people if they want to donate to a disaster fund, and each citizen can make the decision whether it's a worthy cause.

(11) The Pledge of Allegiance will be said every day at school and every day in Congress.

(12) The National Anthem will be played at all appropriate ceremonies, sporting events, outings, etc.

Sorry if I stepped on anyone's toes but a vote for me will get you better than what you have, and better than what you're gonna get. Thanks for listening, and remember to write in my name on the ballot in November.

God Bless America !!!!!!!!!!!

Ok. I had originally attributed this email to have been written by Bill Cosby; but since that cannot be verified I am taking his name off of this. I don't know who wrote it, but I do agree with a FEW ITEMS of what is said. (Like learning to speak English and Steroid testing).

For more information see: http://www.snopes.com/politics/soapbox/platform.asp

I guess this a good lesson that we should ALWAYS check our facts before stating anything. Here is the actual release from Bill Cosby...

BILL COSBY IS NOT A WRITE-IN CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT
"I am not a write-in candidate for President. The statement purportedly from me stating that I am a candidate is a hoax. The platform attributed to me (and at various times to Robin Williams, Andy Rooney and George Carlin) does not represent my views and in many respects is abhorrent to me. Apparently those bloggers and websites who continue to spread this hoax do not care to do even minimal fact checking." -- Bill Cosby
September 26, 2008

A Bloggin' Good Time

2008-10-23T21:15:00.002-06:00

So....

I guess I haven't actually written anything for quite some time now. I think it's because my brain has completely shut down. And when ever I am required to use it I just start laughing til I cry. Go figure.

So I started this week off with a bang! I attended a Individual Tax Law seminar for two days in Billings, MT. It was awesome!! I love learning about all the crazy and ridiculous tax laws our government conjures up!! (I'm being sarcastic here).

And since I've been home I have been doing yard work. The leaves finally started falling and they are everywhere! But I guess that is what you get for having over 30 trees. I think it will take me til spring to get them all cleaned up! Also, after all that snow, we have a million broken branches!! We've been shredding them up for mulch.

I know...it's a very exciting life. I also started another semester this week. I am SO ready to be out of school. I mention this alot; but mostly because it is my ultimate dream! TO NEVER DO HOMEWORK AGAIN! I only have 195 more days til graduation. But who's counting?

What else is going on? Not much. I am hopefully going to get some pictures on here. Maybe I'll put the kids Halloween pictures on here....after I take them obviously.

Julian Beever Art

2008-10-11T16:29:00.005-06:00

These are some cool pics!

What Now?

2008-10-07T21:27:00.002-06:00

Stocks dropped for the fifth day in a row....even after they passed the "Bailout Bill".

So what now? Obviously just pledging to dump billions into the economy was not enough. I still want certain questions answered, like:

How does this bailout help struggling Americans facing foreclosure?

How is this helping those on adjustable rates go to a fix rate without having to refinance?

How is this going to make people want to dump (invest) more money into Wall St?

Etc, Etc.

I think there are a lot more issues here. All of Congress was scared into passing a bill NOW to save the economy. Something else is going to have to happen as well.

I did hear that Bank of America was having to rewrite thousands of Countrywide's loans and trying to help their customers get current on mortgages to avoid thousands of foreclosures. THIS is what we need!! More banks need to follow suit and try and help people keep their homes WITHOUT trying to make money on these poor people by making them refinance, etc.

Any thoughts? It's a scary time, but everything will eventually work out. Right?

On the Verge of the Great Depression? I THINK NOT!

2008-09-29T21:15:00.002-06:00

So...today was a very historic day in American history. And first, thank you to all of those who called their Congressmen and let them know your feelings on the economic bailout! I was pleasantly surprised to see that the House did what was right and VOTED IT DOWN! (OK! I actually was elated!)

Even though Bush had said the whole economy would collapse if this wasn't passed today, the House stood up to him and voted right! And obviously the whole world didn't end like predicted by Bush. So here are some interesting thoughts.

One. I hate the media. They provoke WAY to much fear into the public without a valid reason. And they very rarely cover all the bases. One article said that it was the worst day on the stock market since the Great Depression. Actually, it wasn't.

The stock market did not get as low as it did the day after Sept 11 or as low as it was in 1987. Yes, the market is a little volatile. But it is going to recover. No, not tomorrow; but eventually.

I could go on and on, but I can't right now. My head hurts. Why? Well that's a whole blog by itself.

I just wanted to say that I am glad the American people finally stepped up and said enough is enough. And even more important that the American people can pull together and be heard!

Here is a thought! We, the American people, would not be in this economic mess if people would SAVE for things instead of buying everything on credit! We need to go back to the way our grandparents did things and only BUY WHAT WE CAN AFFORD!

What a novel idea! I challenge everyone to resolve to get out of debt and only pay with cash! Check this out!!

Movie Trailers

2008-09-28T19:48:00.002-06:00

So...

I guess you could say my life has been crazy. So for a good laugh today, my little sister sent me a funny movie trailer of the new movie Twilight. So for those of who you haven't seen the original trailers, here they are......

And here is the spoof trailer!!

Come on! Admit it! It made you laugh!!

The Twilight Series Saga

2008-09-21T20:35:00.005-06:00

So the other day I was bored (not exactly sure how that happened). OK, maybe bored isn't the right word. I was SUPPOSED to have been writing my research paper...I was trying to find something else to distract me and I found it!

I decided to check Stephenie Meyer's website to see if there was anything new and exciting; and there was! It appears that she had given out a few copies of Midnight Sun and it was leaked on the Internet. She is very upset about it (I would be too) and decided not to finish the book. She then stated that she did not want people to go looking for the leak so she actually posted the manuscript on her website! I could not believe it!

She here is the link to her website on the matter and the manuscript is at the end. So then of course I had to spend the next several hours reading it. I can honestly say that I am very sad to see that she won't be finishing it. I quite enjoyed Edward's perspective. Maybe one day Stephenie will change her mind.

Stephenie Meyer - Midnight Sun

Much to Say About Nothing...

2008-09-17T12:58:00.000-06:00

Life has been a little bit crazy lately, so I haven't had much time to blog. So here is my life in a nutshell.....

I've been working part time this fall while the twins go to preschool. So far it has turned out nicely. I am currently working on taxes, yes you read that right, taxes. Taxes of those who are absolutely best at procrastination. Extensions are due October 15 and I still have a pile waiting for stuff. Scary. I guess not everyone is like me and files their taxes Feb 1.

The twins are loving preschool. They go every morning for three hours. Their most favorite things to do are projects and eat snacks. Today Simon was the Super Kid! Next week Olivia will be the Super Kid!

Adriana is enjoying first grade. Her vocabulary grows by the day. She is at the point that she can read or sound out most anything. She doesn't necessarily understand the word, but I'm just impressed she can say it. She reads anything she gets her hands on; and she's a fast reader at that. Must take after her mom!

Jared is hard at work trying to get things finished up before winter comes. It's hard to measure water levels when they are frozen. (They might be easier to measure frozen, cuz they can't change! Ha!) He still loves his job and loves going out in the field.

Last week I had mid-terms; yes, I passed with flying colors. Next on the list is write a few more papers and study for finals. Sometimes it is difficult to do distant learning classes. I often miss actually attending class and being able to ask questions right then and there. Oh well. I only have 1 more semester after this; 230 days to be exact. Then I will finally graduate with my Masters of Accounting. WHOO!

To add to my pile of things I work on, I was called to be the Young Women's President last week. I've been a little overwhelmed at the thought of this, but I'm excited to be working with the girls! They are great! So wish me luck there, and let me know if you have any great ideas!

And one last thing, I was asked to teach a Personal Finance Class (more of how to get out of debt) for Enrichment Night for Relief Society. That class is in October. I am currently compiling that stuff as well. So if any of you have great ideas here, or experiences you'd like to share; LET ME KNOW!!

So now that I've said my say, I guess I'm done. That was quite the little rant for nothing to say, ey?

In Rememberance of Today

2008-09-11T14:20:00.000-06:00

Today is the 7th anniversary since Sept. 11, but most of us probably knew this. Here are some pictures that help me remember the horror of it all. Sometimes it's good to remember things.

I thought about putting up the picture of me in front of the twin towers, but decided against it. I guess not everyone had the chance to visit NY before the dreadful day. It is actually one place I do not think I would visit again. Me, I'm more of a country girl....(obviously). Here is a video with the song by Alan Jackson, Where Were You When the World Stopped Turning.

So in light of all this, I was just sitting here thinking about what I was doing on Sept 11, 2001. I was actually laying on the couch with morning sickness. I had just found out a few weeks before that I was pregnant with Adriana. While I was laying there on the couch trying to keep breakfast down I started flipping through the channels. The news was on with "breaking news" and they were showing the 1st tower smoking. The reporter was trying to figure out what had caused the airplane to crash. And then the second airplane came around. I remember watching it go through the building. Stunned and speechless, I somehow managed to call my dad and tell him that another plane had crashed into the towers. I felt numb the rest of the day. Then it was either that night or the next, that I went to Weber State with my friend Wendy for a candle light vigil. Wow! This sort of thing never leaves you. Here is a video clip of what I saw seven years ago.....

He Did It!

2008-09-06T21:22:00.000-06:00

Jared did it again. He finished another Lotoja. I wanted to post some pictures, but I forgot the cord for my camera. He started at 7:25 this morning, and rode 206 miles through 3 states.

He finished at 6:41 pm for a total ride time of 11 hours, 16 minutes. That's pretty impressive seems how he hasn't had much time to train this summer (and that he's also now 30).

He went out for rack of ribs about an hour after he finished. The thought makes me sick really. I don't think I could eat for days after that.

I'll post some pics in a few days. For now, I'm going to bed. Geez, you'd think I'd just finished the race or something.

Here We Are.

2008-09-05T23:03:00.000-06:00

So we made it to Utah last night. It was about 11 pm when we rolled in. Every time I make the 400 mile drive from Wyoming to Utah, I ask myself..."Self, is this really worth it?" This time the answer was no.

Today I was up by 7 am getting stuff ready and running errands. Did I get them all done? No. I was able to see a few friends and eat some good food. Did I get to see all my friends? No. But I guess I would have to throw a big party or something, or stay for weeks to make sure I saw everyone I wanted to.

Simon has been whining today, and finally threw up this evening. Makes the adventure more of an adventure when you are toting sick kids along.

Right now? I am sitting at my aunt's house writing in this bloody blog. Why? I can't sleep. I imagine Jared can't sleep either in anticipation of the big race. Tomorrow he will ride his pedal bike 206 miles through 3 states. I know, it's absurd to think that someone would actually WANT to do this.

I wish him luck and hope he makes it to the end. He's not as fast and young as he used to be. But I guess none of us are. I'll try and take some pics tomorrow and get them up on the website.

Well, I'm off to read my law book and write another paper.

Here is how I felt today!

What a Week!

2008-09-04T11:05:00.001-06:00

This week has been crazy...and not crazy awesome. I am very exhausted and we still have a long weekend ahead of us. For those of you who wanted to see all the cool holes in the world, sorry. Ain't going to happen.

Monday I spent the day trying to catch up on life. I guess that is what Labor Day is for, to labor. Tuesday the twins started preschool. They go every morning for 3 hours. I guess it is the equivelent of morning kindergarten for some of you. They love it and I found myself without any children at home. So I went to work. That means that when I drop the kids off at preschool I go straight to work. Jared then picks them up at noon and I work til 1 when he has to go back.

Then I usually spend each afternoon doing homework, paying bills, and keeping up on "stuff". Allbeit, none of this stuff includes getting house work done.

All week I've been running around trying to get things done and today I feel like I've accomplished nothing. On this note, I guess I did write a paper on LLC regulations and take a mid-term. So that's something, right?

And it's only getting crazier. We are leaving for Utah tonight, for the infamous Lotoja Race. I despise this race. I won't lie. There is nothing fun about driving a car and waiting and then driving some more. Especially with 3 kids. It will take Jared over 10 hours to complete the race, so you guessed it. I'm in the car with 3 kids for over 10 hours. And to top it all off, every year this race falls on my anniversary. Well, Happy Anniversary to me. This year we have been married 9 years. You would think I could have broken him of this race habit by now. Hopefully this year will be the last.

So after we arrive in Utah late night, I have 1000 things to do tomorrow before noon. No pressure. Then I will go to Logan and done another 100 things. The good thing about this trip? I'll get to see my best friend and have dinner with her. I'll post updates on this adventure throughout the weekend. Pray for good weather.

Here is a picture of how I feel right now:

Hole #2

2008-09-01T13:34:00.000-06:00

For those of you waiting for #2, here it is! I thought this hole was especially cool!

Glory Hole - Monticello Dam, California

A glory hole is used when a dam is at full capacity and water needs to be drained from the reservoir.

This is the "Glory Hole" at Monticello dam, and it's the largest in the world of this type of spillway, its size enabling it to consume 14,400 cubic feet of water every second.

The hole can be seen at the top left of the photo above. If you were to jump in for some reason, your body would shoot out near the bottom of the dam (below). There is one person known to have had this experience. She did not live to tell of it.

8 Amazing Holes - Hole #1

2008-08-31T12:51:00.000-06:00

When I saw these 8 amazing holes, I was....well, AMAZED! So I thought I would share one hole a day for 8 marvelous days. Here is hole #1....

This is the Kimberely Big Hole in South Africa. Apparently the largest ever hand-dug excavation in the world, this 1097 meter deep mine yielded over 3 tons of diamonds before being closed in 1914.

The amount of earth removed by workers is estimated to
total 22.5 million tons.

Now that is one big diamond mine!

Come back tomorrow to see hole #2.

Old People - Fun?

2008-08-30T08:33:00.000-06:00

Here is a video on what "old" people do for fun! I hope I get the chance to do this when I'm old! Enjoy!

Wow! Go me!

2008-08-28T20:02:00.000-06:00

So I received word that I was one of the receipants of the Republican Woman Scholarship. This local group offers three scholarships each year for mothers who are pursuing their education! And that I am. I only have 251 days left until graduation with my Masters of Accounting. (Not that I am counting).

So here is the clipping out of the local newspaper with me receiving my scholarship. How special.

DAILY NEWS photo by Christine Weber
SCHOLARSHIP PRESENTATION: Washakie County Republican Women presented a $300 scholarship to Kaylynn Dalebout (third from left). Passing the check to Kaylynn are WCRW officers from left: Kathy Treanor, vice-president; Mary Grace Strauch, secretary-treasurer; and Doris Kern, president. Other $300 scholarship recipients include Gail Carver and Kim Douglas. The scholarship is presented to adult women in Washakie County furthering their education. Proceeds came from the organization’s silent auction. The officers stated they will hold their popular Christmas House Walk in December.

It's All in the Name

2008-08-28T09:02:00.000-06:00

So I thought I would share an interesting tidbit about my children's names. They all have something in common. And no, it's not that they each have an "i" in it. Think harder...harder...STOP! Don't hurt your brain! OK, OK! I guess I'll just tell you.

All of their names are characters in a Shakespearean play. My English teacher would be so happy! So let's start at the beginning....

Adriana - the frequently angry wife of Antipholus of Ephesus in The Comedy of Errors.

Simon - a minor character, a musician, in Romeo and Juliet.

Olivia - a countess, loved by Orsino but in love with Cesario (the male persona of Viola) in Twelfth Night.

Both of my girls names also end with a "a".

Unfortunately Jared and I aren't as cool as our kids. There a no characters named Jared or KayLynn, I checked.

So I guess if I have any more kids, their names will have to follow suit. Maybe I could have a Caesar, or a Sampson. There is also Oswald, and Gertrude. Such a plethora, how would I ever choose?

A cool thing that was once emailed to me was "How Many of Me".
http://www.howmanyofme.com/

It is a website that will tell you approxiametly how many people in the US have the same name as you. Even though Shakespear was not cool enough to name someone KayLynn. I am the only one of me.

There are fewer than 1,525 people in the U.S. with the first name Kaylynn.

There are fewer than 335 people in the U.S. with the last name Dalebout.

There are 1 or fewer people in the U.S. named Kaylynn Dalebout.

Another Thread of Life Cut by the Scissors of Fate

2008-08-25T19:35:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I received a call that another friend from Morgan died tragically in a plane crash in Guatemala.

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,700253760,00.html

John was a great guy and loved life. I haven't seen him in years, but he was always so fun to be around.

So as I sit here and reflect on how fragile life is and how it really is just hanging by a thread; I wonder how much longer until the scissors of fate cut the life of someone so dear to me, or even myself.

Do I live each day as it were my last...? Hardly. Do I make sure all those in my life know how much I love and appreciate them...? Probably not. Am I leaving a legacy for my family to remember me by...? Doubtful.

These questions and more so the answers sadden me. I really need to reevaluate what is important in my life and make sure I live the best I can.

My thoughts and heart go out to John and his family, and to really everyone and their families who were killed in the crash. I hope everyone can stop and think about how important life is and how fragile we need to handle each other's lives....

...we'll never know when the scissors of fate will come our way.