Me and the Gang

Fall 2011

2011-10-30T17:12:00.000-07:00

Family Pics 2011

Tristan, 16

Justus, 14

Cotton, 18

My sweetheart and me.

Rogues

Family

Cute Parents (sneek peak)

Ephraim, Utah

2011-09-20T10:01:00.000-07:00

My last post was Cotton's high school graduation. Alot has changed and happened since then. Summer came and went and now Cotton is at Snow College in Ephraim, Utah. Mike and I drove to Ephraim with Cotton to help him take his world to his apartment. This is the wall decor that Cotton took with him.

Here is Cotton's world in the back of Mike's car. The minute I put my purse in the car to go to Ephraim I cried like a small child until we hit Orem on I-15 and then I was o.k. It is a strange thing to let your baby grow up, but it is a good thing.

What a beautiful campus. Cotton's first year at college will be paid for with three scholarships that he earned. He worked full time this last summer and has pretty much taken care of his expenses so far. What a great kid.

It is all real. I am glad that I have been able to be home with my son Cotton from six weeks old to going away to college. Our family has been blessed over and over again and I am grateful to my Heavenly Father for everything.

By the way I do have pictures of Tristan and Justus' first day of school, Tristan's pic was taken by Mike and I took Justus' picture from my bed! Bad Mom!

Class of 2011

2011-06-03T21:57:00.000-07:00

Today our oldest son Cotton graduated fro Lehi High School. 440 students received diplomas. My heart felt huge in my chest during the ceremony as memories of the past 18 years played in my mind and I caught myself smiling, giggling and tearing up thinking of this young man.

Mike snapped this photo of Cotton pretending to stumble as he entered in by the large L for Lehi (Blurry due to Cotton being a goof).

Pure JOY!

Proud Mama.

Four handsome men.

Grandma and Grandpa Fraughton.

Congratulations Cotton! Can't wait to see what you are when you grow up. I love you.

Field trip

2011-06-03T21:42:00.000-07:00

I took a field trip with my parents to visit Heber City Cemetery, Francis Cemetery, Woodland Cemetery and see where my Papa (Grandpa Fraughton) was born. I loved hearing stories from my dad about family members he and I haven't met because they had passed before either of us were born.

This is my Great, great, great Grandma Skog's headstone in Heber. She Came to New York City on a ship with 2 of her daughters, one was buried at sea. Grandma Skog left her husband and sons for the Gospel of Jesus Christ and her husband disowned her. I have seen a picture of her and I have always looked at that picture at my parent's home and felt close to her. She came to Salt Lake with the Witt (spelling?) handcart company. What a pioneer.

This engraving of the Salt Lake Temple was on a headstone near Grandma Skog and I love the line of daisies above.

I spied this sweet bird on another headstone and fell in love with it. I am requesting a bird on my stone when that day comes. Off subject, I walk each morning in the Lehi cemetery and there is a large headstone that I see and giggle inside because there is a picture of a sewing machine on the front of it. The lady must have really loved sewing! I love to sew too, but I am requesting a bird.

Look at my cute mom.

We also visited Woodland Cemetery, this is where Grandma Skog's daughter Christine is buried. I have seen her picture and she was beautiful, she had crystal blue eyes like my Papa, dad, and my son Tristan have.

Just before we turned to go up the hill to the cemetery in Woodland we drove past the home where my Papa was born.

Papa was born in this room behind the window. The window has been updated since. Another bird!

This beautiful tree sits to the side of Papa's house and I can see him as a small boy climbing and playing in this tree.

Daffodils at the Woodland Cemetery.

J.J. who ate deer poop at the Woodland Cemetery and later threw up said deer poop on the way home. Bless his deer poop breath heart.

Thank you mom and dad for taking me with you on the field trip. I loved it, except for the throw up.

Those shoes!

2011-05-08T21:58:00.000-07:00

Cotton and Sam went to prom this weekend and wore their Converse. I love this picture! They had a great time and Cotton said it was the greatest date ever.

J.J.

2011-04-25T19:49:00.000-07:00

Last week was Spring break for my children. Cotton went to California withh the Symphonic and Jazz band. Justus hung out with his friends from his rugby team. Tristan and I went on adventures every day. On Thursday we were out and about and decided to go to the animal shelter. We looked at the dogs and fell in love with J.J. He is 18 months old and is a Pikeranian (Pikenese/Pomeranian mix). He had been at the shelter for a week. We brought him home and he would sit against the wall and stare at us. He didn't eat for two days, I think he was scared and heart broken. On Monday Mike took him to the vet for shots and to be neutered. J.J. was out of it for a bit and on pain medication until Thursday. Friday he started playing with the toys that we had bought for him and he is eating and walking with me in the morning. He is fun and has such a sweet, funny personality. I am tickled with our new family member. The boys love him and Mike thinks he is a great dog (especially after I purchased J.J. a studded leather collar). I heart J.J., I really have a crush on him.

Happy Anniversary

2011-03-29T11:37:00.000-07:00

20 years ago yesterday my fiance picked me up and we drove to the Salt Lake Temple together and were married for Time and all Eternity. What a wonderful day we had together with family and friends. Mike has made sure every year we celebrate our anniversary. We have learned so much about each other through the years but, I am still learning every day. I did not know that my husband absolutely loved Tang as a kid until I brought a can home from Costco and he thought I was the bomb-diggity-dog.

Yesterday morning I was working in my office and my son Cotton brought in this beautiful bouquet of 20 red roses that Mike had sent me. I felt like a special gal and all the flighty feelings that I felt during our engagement came to me. How fun is that?

Later we went to dinner together and were planning on a movie but, we both were dead on our feet tired. So we came home and cuddled and watched INTERVENTION. Good times. I love you Mike and I am so glad you chose me.

What makes me happy today

2011-03-24T15:11:00.000-07:00

Oh the weather outside is frightful... Winter is trying to be a lingering, unwelcome guest here in Utah. I really don't mind the cold weather because I know Spring will come eventually. This is what is making me happy today

1. My woodpecker trays with treats for passers by, and the carrots for Peter.

This young man who while I am typing just made a big crash upstairs. I am almost certain he is throwing a rugby ball in the house. That is a no-no. Justus is loving rugby and is taking a trip to St. George this weekend to play. He is doing much better in school and I cannot ask for more than that.

I love this platter. I found at D.I. last week. Can you find two butterflies on the platter?

Ah yes, Tristan making his after school shake. He has been growing out his hair and likes to shake his head because he can feel his hair move. GOOD KID!

After 5 hours of cleaning my pantry is clean and organized. I have shown my family where everything goes and asked them to PLEASE put food back in it's place. How long do you think this will last?

Cotton taking an afternoon nap today between school and work. He will be graduating from high school in 2 months. Such an exciting time in life! If I think about it too much I get a little teary eyed. I love my boys. I love my husband and he makes me happy too. We will be celebrating 20 years of marriage on the 28th of March. Wow, Mike and I have had a wonderful life together and I know we have so much more to look forward to. What makes you happy today?

This is what your doing, this is what I want you to do.

2011-03-07T16:37:00.000-08:00

Here is my first finished block from THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS. Love the mouse and his glasses and cup of hot chocolate. I am working on the second block now which has at least 3 times as much applique as this cutie.

Here is the second wip that I am putting together. I started this one today and want to finish it quickly. This will be a gift for an incredibly special couple.

O.k. this is what your doing, this is what I would like you to do is what my husband is thinking as he took these beautiful pictures of his last snowshoeing outing that he came home from in complete outrageous pain due to his kidney stone. BHH.(bless his heart). Mike would like me to go with him snowshoeing when he goes and I have enjoyed it when I have joined in on the fun.

Mike will be having surgery tomorrow on his kidney stone and will be back out on his snowshoes in no time at all. Perhaps I will put the sewing away and join him.

Winter Drumlline

2011-02-26T19:16:00.000-08:00

Tristan has been patiently waiting for today. Today was Winter Drumline competitions at Maple Mountain Highschool. IMPACT is the name of Lehi Highschool's winter drumline and they have been practicing this winter to perform. Below Tristan and fellow snare drummers are cutting a rug to a part of their performance.

Cotton had an opportunity to attend Snow College Snow Blast this weekend and audition for their Julliard program. He came straight to the competition from Ephraim. I was so glad to see him and to know he had traveled safely through two snowstorms in 48 hours.

I love that my sons are each so different from one another and are involved in programs that help them build on their talents. They have wonderful band teachers, Mama C. and Mr. D. I am thankful for teachers who teach because they love what they are teaching and want to help others be the best they can be.

Hats off to IMPACT!

Valentine

2011-02-14T09:15:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day to you.

I have 4 Valentines, boy, am I blessed.

Hope you have a sweet day.

Cotton's Eagle Ceremony

2011-02-13T19:55:00.000-08:00

Tonight was Cotton's Eagle ceremony. I am proud of you Cotton. You worked hard and proved yourself by following through and earning your Eagle. Grandma and Grandpa Fraughton were proud to be your grandparents tonight.

Your dad is beaming with pride because of your accomplishment and the fine young man you have become.

Tristan thinks your pretty cool.

You and Afton did a beautiful job on America the Beautiful.

GOOFS IN THE EAGLE'S NEST

You've come a long way baby!

So proud to be your mom. I love you, Tristan and Justus. You each are a blessing and joy in my life.

Sweet 16 and never been kissed!

2011-01-25T22:12:00.000-08:00

Tristan Maxwell Fitzsimmons

Happy Birthday!

This is my sweet, handsome, kind, hilarious son Tristan. He will be 16 in a few short hours. I cannot believe how fast time has flown and that Tristan is a young man. I remember when he was born and we took him home from the hospital and he slept, and slept, and slept! Mike and I called the hospital to ask the nurses if we should be concerned because he would not wake up even to eat. The nurse told us: "I don't think anything is wrong, I think you just got a good one". I agree with the nurse, we got a good one! I love you Tristan and I am blessed to have you for a son.

Spring Sprint and snowshoeing

2011-01-25T22:02:00.000-08:00

I had the opportunity on the 24th of January to attend the Scentsy Spring Sprint in Provo. I had fun with other Scentsy peeps in my group.

Our group met at Los Hermanos for dinner during a break and had a wonderful time visiting and laughing.

Sharese, me, Tanya

Below, Katie and Jess are two consultants that joined Scentsy close to the same time I did and we love seeing each other any time Scentsy gets together.

Last Saturday Mike and I went snowshoeing at Pine Hollow up American Fork Canyon. Everything was incredibly beautiful covered in many feet of snow.

Every time I asked Mike if we were getting close to the meadow he would say something like:

"It is close just a little bit farther"

"We are almost there"

"Not much further"

He would say whatever he could to keep my spirits up and keep me going.

What a handsome character my husband is.

I am excited to return to the canyon and snowshoe more. I felt alive and blessed to live in such a beautiful area. Thanks for stopping by.

Made my day

2011-01-10T10:31:00.000-08:00

While checking my favorite blogs this morning I came upon this pic. It made my day and I hope it does the same for you! Happy Monday.

Red Velvet and Hobo squares

2011-01-06T20:06:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow my quilting friends and I are having a Bee. I am in charge of dessert. Here it is - Pioneer Woman's Red Velvet cake. BEAUTIFUL if I don't say so myself.

Besides making the Red Velvet beauty I finished 3 squares of my Hobo quilt.

Exhibit A

Exhibit B

Exhibit C

Today was a favorite day for me. I was able to do so many things that bring me joy:
1. went for a walk in the cold winter air
2. listened to Sugarland while walking
3. went to lunch with my Mononucleosis ridden son Cotton
4. let my 15 year old son Tristan drive me from the high school to Broadbent's and then home
5. watched a tiny bit of Nate Burkis' show, he is the handsome-est gay man I know
6. made Pioneer Woman lasagna for my family for dinner
7. baked a cake from scratch and licked the cream cheese frosting off of the decorating knife
8. worked in my sewing room
9. ate dinner with my family
10. Asked my 13 year old son why he is failing classes at school, oops, this is not a favorite
11. Now I am going to watch t.v. with my cute husband,say my prayers and go to bed

I would love to have every day be like today. Take care.

YeeHaW!

2011-01-03T19:46:00.000-08:00

Tonight our family went out to celebrate Cotton's and my birthday. I love this handsome adult son of mine!

Yee Haw Cowboy!

Good times...

Not a day past 43

2011-01-03T10:28:00.000-08:00

Well today is my 43rd birthday. My oldest son Cotton shares this day with me, he was born on my 25th birthday.

I got up this morning and drove down to the cemetery and walked for 35 minutes. What an awesome way to start your 43rd birthday - I recommend it to everyone!

I finished my walk and proceeded to my car to stretch. While stretching I looked down at my shoes and noticed I had two different shoes on. Giggled out loud to myself and the headstones. I hope this isn't a sign of how my 43rd year will be. Have a great day!

Happy New Year! 2011

2011-01-01T11:48:00.000-08:00

When I was young I could not even fathom 2011. Have an amazing year all!

It's about time!

2010-12-30T09:38:00.000-08:00

Finally, some real Utah snow has fallen and continues to fall. It is beautiful and peaceful.

The Baby Jesus

2010-12-15T07:17:00.000-08:00

Half white, half wheat

2010-12-14T16:08:00.000-08:00

I baked bread last week. My boys came home from school and ate a loaf with butter and strawberry freezer jam. This bread makes a to-die-for grilled cheese sandwich too.

6 cups warm water
14-ish cups of flour (6 white and 8 wheat)
2/3 cup honey
2 T. salt
2 T. SAF yeast
2 T. dough enhancer
6 quarter sized filled in circles of liquid soy lecithin

Start with water in bowl and add 3 cups each of white and wheat flour, yeast and dough enhancer. Mix til combined, then let sponge for 10-15 minutes.
Add honey salt and lecithin, squirt the lecithin into the bowl in a filled circle the size of a quarter times 6 and mix with kneading paddle for 8-10 minutes.
Grease pans and form dough into loaves. I usually get 4 loaves from this recipe. Cover and let raise until double in size and put into a cold oven. Bake at 350 degrees for 37 minutes.

Mary's Heart

2010-12-14T07:15:00.000-08:00

Sleep in Heavenly Peace

2010-12-13T07:35:00.000-08:00

Shepherds

2010-12-12T07:09:00.001-08:00

Child of Grace

2010-12-10T09:19:00.000-08:00

Behold The Lamb

2010-12-09T10:17:00.001-08:00

Baubles

2010-12-08T07:40:00.000-08:00

Looky here. This was a fun quick project that I found at Just Sew in Highland. The applique was fun.

As you can see Huck was not impressed in the least.

I fell in love with the red and white baubles.

However, I will tell you that this is my favorite bauble of all.

No room at the Inn

2010-12-07T21:31:00.000-08:00

November 2009 was a year when there was no room at the Inn for the Nativity at the Draper Temple.

Cotton finished his Eagle project and now the Nativity is not homeless. Monday evening our family went to see the Nativity and I couldn't help but feel so incredibly blessed to have had the opportunity to be Cotton's mom. Good job Cotton!

O Christmas tree

2010-12-06T07:51:00.000-08:00

Journey

2010-12-05T22:03:00.000-08:00

Yo-Yo puppy

2010-11-23T18:35:00.000-08:00

Hello there, I started this little guy a year ago and had all the Yo-Yos done and hid in my deluge of quilting supplies. I finally took the time to make the head and I think he is adorable. I don't think I would give this to a small child, there was far too much work put into it. 45 Yo-Yos and something about a gusset on the head and actually making the pattern pieces form a head?... that was hard.

I am excited for Thanksgiving. I have so many blessings to be thankful for: my family, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, a wonderful husband who loves me, 3 sons who make me laugh and make me proud to be there mom, good health, a warm home, a fridge with adequate amounts of Diet Coke and Dove Peppermint Bark hidden in my sewing room.

Wishing everyone a safe, Happy Thanksgiving. The END.

Walking in a Winter Wonderland

2010-11-15T08:37:00.000-08:00

Last night I finished the binding on this fun quilt. I love it!

I think this is my favorite block of stitching, love her apron and the candy cane line.

This block reminds me of being hit in the eye by a snowball thrown by a very mean boy at Greenwood Elementary school during lunch recess in the third grade. As you can tell the scene will forever be crystal clear in my mind.

I loved adding the satin to a few of the pieced blocks.

Brr... snow everywhere this morning, worked out perfect for pics of the quilt.

Did you know that birds eat these Pyrocantha berries in the winter and they get a little drunk from them? You learn something new every day.

I love my MaryJane. I know she would love to quilt with me if she could. Have a wonderful Monday!

Called to Serve

2010-11-09T20:38:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow afternoon my nephew Jordan will enter the Missionary Training Center where he will prepare to be a full-time missionary in Honolulu, Hawaii. I gave him his OFFICIAL missionary hair cut this afternoon. I love you J.J. and am so proud to be your Aunt Vickie.

The VILLARREAL FAMILY

This is an amazing family! Jordan is going to be missed by everyone in this picture; especially his twin brother Jordan.

Bella, Marci, Jordan, Shawntell, Perry, Lori, Cody, Melissa, Megein, Jacob, Trinitee and Austin.

What about Bob? (my nephew Cody - what a character! Love you Cody.

My niece Meigen will be sending in her papers to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in December. Meigen, enjoy this short skirt while you can cuz it aint happening on the mission! Love you Meigen.

Bella Mae, need I say more?

The Night Before Christmas

2010-10-24T17:41:00.000-07:00

I just joined the BOM at Fat Quarter Shop for this quilt. Beginning January 2011 - October 2011 I will receive a pattern and fabric kit at the beginning of each month to create these adorable blocks.

This is the first block that I saw for this quilt and knew immediately that I wanted to do it.

This mouse reminds me of my boys when they were small. I made them all red flannel p.j.s for Christmas eve on year, and Justus looked just like this little mouse.

Won't you join me in making this sweet applique quilt?

Hocuspocusville finished!

2010-10-17T17:39:00.000-07:00

This is the Le Witche Boutique where you can pick up a hat before the 31st.

This is Bristle Lube where I always go to get a tune up and extra splinters,

And of course Hermoine's salon.

I have worked on this fun quilt for three Octobers now and you can see I am a little frazzled from the long hours of stitching.

All frazzledness worth the outcome. I finished the binding on my Haloween quilt today and now it will be on my be until November 1st. I love it!

Y'all come back now ya hear?

It's Autumn Time

2010-09-18T15:29:00.000-07:00

It's Autumn time, it's Autumn time, the leaves are falling down,

I'ts Autumn time, it's autumn time, there's beauty all around!

Today was the first day in an incredibly long time that I have had to dust, and decorate a little for Fall, (or Autumn as I learned from singing time in primary at the American Fork 1st ward chapel).

I love this huge, spent sunflower head. I think she is as beautiful now as she was when she was blooming!

My tomatoes were not big producers this year. I have been able to can 21 quarts so far and I am hoping for one more picking before it gets cold. This batch I added a red Anaheim pepper, cumin, chili powder, basil and cilantro so when I make chili my spices will already be mixed in. B-E-A-UTIFUL! Take care and don't forget to write.

Swiss Days at Midway Market

2010-09-07T21:34:00.000-07:00

This past weekend my fellow Scentsy consultant Tanya and I shared a Scentsy booth at Swiss Days at Midway Market in Midway, Utah.

This picture was taken on Saturday morning during the parade when we had a moment of silence before all *#@! broke loose and the customers arrived. We had a successful weekend and we were thankful when it was over. We met people who loved Scentsy as much as us and introduced it to MANY others. Good times.

Our booth was one of many in front of this adorable, old gingerbread house. Such a fun house to be able to look at all weekend. Beautiful chunky wood work.

The weather was perfect for shopping! Beautiful blue sky.

Love the chimney. Wish there were one like this at my house.

Bloom where you are planted;)

Famous last words.

Eagle project and jalapeno jelly

2010-08-28T21:36:00.000-07:00

Hope your weekend is turning out to be everything you hoped it would be. This is a picture taken last Thanksgiving at the Draper, Utah temple. Poor baby Jesus and his parents went through an incredibly windy winter with no shelter to protect them from the elements... brrrr!

Cotton is beginning his Eagle project. Here is the beginning of what will be a stable for the nativity at the Draper temple. More to come on this project later.

Mike brought in jalapenos this morning and I made yummy jelly tonight. Can't wait to have this poured over cream cheese with wheat thins to dip in and munch. Tomorrow I believe we shall have Jalapeno poppers courtesy of the Pioneer Woman Cooks Cookbook. Ay-chihuahua! Somebody call 911!

I did it!

2010-08-25T11:31:00.000-07:00

I did it! I survived a summer with three teenage boys. This morning I took pictures of my three sons as they went on their merry way back to class. Justus is in the 8th grade this year. He is quite tall and has discovered cowboy boots this summer. What a handsome bloke.

Cotton is a senior in high school this year and I felt a little angst knowing this will be the last time I take his picture on the first day of school. The majority of classes he is taking are music and as you can see he has his trumpet which he has sentimentally named 'Afton' after his great-grandmother in hand ready to face the senior world.

All I can say about this young man is HANDSOME! Tristan is a sophomore at Lehi high and I felt a little nervous this morning because I could tell he was a little nervous. He and Cotton just came home for lunch and I am happy to report that Tristan is no longer nervous and I can tell he will be just fine.

I love my boys mucho and I have a smile on my face as I type about them. They make me laugh, they make me cry, and they make me grateful for the opportunity I have to be their mom.

It's the most wonderful time of the year!

2010-08-13T14:15:00.000-07:00

We finally have a red tomato today! Hundreds of green tomatoes, I can't wait to have enough to start canning them.

I canned for the first time this summer last night. Love it.

Mike roasted the Anaheim peppers while reading a book and he was in Heaven! Smelled so yummy.

Again, bloom where you are planted.

I love my husband. He is my best friend. He takes such good care of our boys and me. These pictures were taken by him last night and I love looking at the pictures he takes and being able to see beauty in his pictures. Wow, I am blessed! Have a great weekend!

Baby Boy Blankie

2010-08-11T16:24:00.001-07:00

I have a neighbor who I visit taught for a couple of years and really enjoyed getting to know her. She has a daughter who is going into 5th grade and yesterday she had a sweet baby boy! What a great excuse to sew a baby boy blankie!

Had to sneak in the sunflower pic - Bloom where you are planted baby!

Can't wait to see the fresh baby boy straight from Heavenly Father. Turtles + baby boy = so sweet!

10% OFF IN AUGUST

2010-08-02T23:06:00.000-07:00

AUGUST IS HERE AND SCENTSY IS 10% OFF! IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ORDERING SCENTSY GIVE ME A CALL AND I WILL BE HAPPY TO TAKE YOUR ORDER. THERE ARE SCENTS, WARMERS, AND PLUGINS THAT WILL BE DISCONTINUED AFTER AUGUST SO NOW IS THE TIME TO STOCK UP. YOU CAN GO TO MY SITE OR CONTACT ME. HAVE A GREAT AUGUST.

2010 INTENSITY Scentsy convention

2010-08-01T14:52:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, July 28 - 30, 2010 was Scentsy's annual convention. I attended this convention and I absolutely loved every minute of it (except for waiting in line with 6,500 other consultants)! I was impressed at how organized and how smoothly every thing went, Scentsy did an amazing job. these pics are entered in this post from last to first, I NEVER remember from post to post how to enter them correctly to show the order that I want. Anyway, the following pictures are ones of some of the people that I have met through Scentsy. Enjoy!

This cute gal has nothing to do with Scentsy. Her name is Rose and she was our waitress at Bubba Gump's on our final evening in Denver. I put a smile on her finger and now we are friends on Facebook. She was being a little bit of a stinker with our group and instead of letting her know that she was #1 I made her smile. Amazing what a Sharpie can do.

This is my friend Amanda, we met at Director retreat in January and we both presented at the Scentsy World Tour last May in Salt Lake. She is a wonderful gal to know!

This is beautiful, Stephanie, she is pregnant with her 3rd child. I was excited to see her at the airport and we posed together for this pic at the reception before awards night. Steph is strikingly beautiful and I am blessed to know her.

Here is Jon who is employed by Scentsy. He is over communications and I consider him my big Scentsy brother. He has brought to Scentsy amazing ideas and he makes me laugh!

Shut up! This Michelle from Nevada. We met in 2009 at Director Boot Camp. We have giggled together until tears have formed in our eyes! She is amazing and kind.

This picture includes Lindsay, Jaqui, Tanya, Annette, and Crystal. These consultants are on my friend Tanya's team and the are very entertaining. My favorite thing about Scentsy is that ANYONE can sell Scentsy, you do not have to look a certain way, wear certain clothes, or act like someone you are not. You can be authentic. Love these women.

Here I am with my roomies and Amanda Gore who was a presenter at convention. We stood in line to purchase her book - The Gospel of Joy -. Amanda is from New Zealand and everyone loved her message. She taught us the Sharpie smile on the finger, "Hello!"

Sweet, sweet Joy! I didn't get to visit with her until the last evening. She is so funny and has a kind heart.

Gina, Andrea, JoDee and Cristy. These are the consultants on my team that attended convention. They are all related - two pairs of sisters and all are cousins. They have attended every convention for the past 3 years. They wore the hats I made and I didn't hear one complaint!

Katie, Jess, and Dannette. As Superstar directors we put together a meet and greet for our groups with door prize drawings, awards, instruction and recognition, there were 120 and then some consultants who showed up. This was alot of work but it was successful and a wonderful opportunity to connect with our groups before convention began.

Here are Crystal and Lindsay. Annette calls them the babies, because they are young and full of energy! They kept me laughing. In my group Crystal is like a great-grand daughter and Lindsey is like a great, great-grand daughter to me.

Here is my friend Jen. I have known her through Scentsy for just over 2 years. I believe we are kindred spirits. She is thoughtful, shy and kind.

There were so many other consultants who attended that I did not have an opportunity to share here. Suzanne, Julie, Wendy, Karen, Erva and her team and others too. Love them all so very much and consider them my Scentsy family. What an amazing company! Wait until you see what is coming from Scentsy in September!

Welcome Home Paola!

2010-07-23T14:19:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was a magical, miraculous day. My sweet friend Paola was able to come home from the hospital. She has been diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma, a cancer that is found mostly in young children and it shows absolutely no warning signs until it has bloomed. She has had one round of chemo and a blood transfusion. Her grandparents traveled from Mexico and family has traveled from California to help this family through a difficult time.
I cannot look at this picture of my sweet friend coming home without getting emotional. I love her so much.

Here is Paola's father driving home with Paola and her mom in the van. I can't imagine the feeling he is going through bringing his only daughter home.

Here are some of Paola's cousins and brothers waiting so patiently for their family to arrive. These funny little boys had drawn tattoo hearts all over the body to show Paola their love.

Earlier in the day I had told Cotton and Tristan that Paola's cousin had let Paola shave her head because Paola's hair is starting to fall out. Cotton immediately said he wanted to shave his head to support Paola and Tristan loved the idea.

We had a sweet time together doing this. My heart is full when I look at my sons' shiny heads. I am so grateful for them. Paola has a long road ahead of her and she will be in our families prayers. Love you Paola.

Excited for convention!

2010-07-21T21:22:00.000-07:00

I will be attending Scentsy's INTENSITY convention in Denver Colorado soon and I can't wait. We have a team spirit day and I have made these straw hats for my team members to wear and I found some awesome KAZOOS at Broadbent's for noise makers. I have a great Scentsy team and I am excited to see consultants that I have not seen since convention last August.

Purple Turtle

2010-07-18T20:38:00.001-07:00

When I was very young my Nanny and Papa would drive from American Fork to Pleasant Grove to the Purple Turtle to take us for an ice cream cone. Sometimes we would have Sherbet and sometimes ice cream. I remember the cones being so big.

We went for a 'cone' last night and I ordered a large one. Holy cow, I was almost embarrassed when the gal brought my cone to me because I am accustomed to the wimpy cones that every other establishment serves. I had no problem eating it and now I will forever be loyal to the Purple Turtle for a 'cone'. Love you Mr. Turtle.

Our True Identity

2010-07-13T22:10:00.000-07:00

Our True Identity
Love this message by President Uchtdorf. Click on the title and enjoy.

Sabbath

2010-07-11T09:02:00.000-07:00

Have a beautiful Sabbath day all.

Bring Back My Bar!

2010-07-09T16:57:00.001-07:00

So excited to let you know that during the month of July Scentsy is bringing back 20 bars from the past, I like to call them vintage bars. They are outselling every current bar Scentsy has currently. Some I have not had the opportunity to smell because they were before I joined Scentsy, but I will tell you that Pumpkin Pie, Blackberry Bushel, Luscious Lemon, and Cheerful day are divine! Here are the bars that you can order only during the month of July (I am stocking up on Pumpkin Pie for Fall/Winter for my home!).

Leather

French Vanilla

Strawberry Sweetie

Sizzlin' Coconut

Blackberry Bushel

Apples & Pears

Luscious Lemon

Cheerful Day

Eggnog

Fried Ice Cream

Watermelon Patch

Mysterious

Cashmere

Key Lime Tortilla

Pink Plumeria Passion

Newborn Nursery

Banana Nut Bread

Cappuccino

Eucalyptus

Pumpkin Pie

You can order them in bars only for $5, or you can order them in multi packs - 3 for $14 or Buy 5 get one free for $25. Let me know if you would like to place an order and I can add it to a party and you will have free shipping. With any order of $25 or more I will give you a room spray of your choice (sorry the roomsprays do not come in the above flavors but there are 80 plus scents you can choose from! Gotta love Scentsy!

Summer Night

2010-07-01T21:03:00.000-07:00

Tonight I spotted the first blooming Shasta daisy of the season in my yard and had to share it with you.
While I was taking pictures in the yard I spied Huck the cat drinking from the bird bath by my front door, what a character. I wonder if it tastes like bird broth?

I decorated my $15 bike that I purchased from my cousin Trenton's yard sale left overs. I have wanted a vintage bike for many years and I finally found one. My favorite part of this bike is the reflector on the back fender. Isn't it sweet? Mike and I went for a bike ride before I started decorating my sweet ride for Independence day and this bike is a keeper.

Do you remember being a little kid and decorating your bike with crepe paper for the children's parade? To make this bike complete I just need a clothes pin to attach a card to the spokes so everyone will hear me coming! Have a wonderful 4th.

13

2010-06-27T20:52:00.000-07:00

This is Mike's Yeti. He lives in our vegetable garden. The Yeti was invited to Justus's birthday party today but declined - he is shy.

Mary Jane put on a beautiful flower for the celebration, she looked beautiful.

Root beer birthday cake.

I made this quilt and a matching pillow case for Justus. The quilt is backed with dark blue minky. He loves it. My baby is a teenager now. I might shed a tear.

Reach for the sky!

2010-06-27T13:01:00.001-07:00

Happy 13th Birthday Justus! Look at this sweet angel on his 3rd birthday holding his Woody birthday cake. Funny thing is we went to see Toy Story Three for his 13th birthday! Funny how Woody is sprinkled throughout Justus' birthdays. I love my Justus. He is a great kid.
He will be going to Timberline Scout training camp tomorrow for the week and I will miss him. Happy Birthday Fitzy!

Felicidades a todo mi padre Franco y mi muchacho Miquel

2010-06-20T10:04:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's day to my father Frank and my husband Mike! Please take time today to have a siesta! Love you!

I beg your pardon

2010-06-16T18:38:00.000-07:00

My parents are in the process of moving from the home they have lived in since 1978. This has been a huge project.

Today Justus and I went to help my parents move boxes from their old home to their new home. After loading the trailer my mom suggested that I cut some roses to take home and enjoy. I noticed right away that I was humming a song to myself and totally loving the opportunity of gathering these beautiful blooms. My dad was given a Veteran's rose bush when his father passed away, I cut the last bloom from this bush, closed my eyes, and smelled the red rose. Tears immediately came to my eyes because I have such sweet memories of my 'Papa'.

Sing along with me! " I BEG YOUR PARDON, I NEVER PROMISED YOU A ROSE GARDEN. ALONG WITH THE SUNSHINE, THERE'S GOTTA BE A LITTLE RAIN SOMETIMES." Lynn Anderson knew exactly what she was talking about.

Painting

2010-06-13T09:59:00.000-07:00

My dear husband Mike has been paiting our home. It is hard to see the color in these pics but, it is a nice, warm tan. These pics are for you Lori.

Summer is here.

2010-06-02T10:50:00.000-07:00

Summer is here! This is my first beehive Amy's son Bronson. Mike and I watched Bronson and his 5 month old brother Hunter last week while Amy went out. He had so much fun outside playing with MaryJane and with my piggy watering can. So cute!, and so busy! How did I do it with my boys?

Here is our vegetable garden, doesn't look like much now but soon we will have fresh tomatoes, anaheim chilis, jalepenos, garlic, onions and green beans - can't wait!

Remember this little project I finished last week? I decided to...

...make curtains to go with it for my bathroom. I love the pink in there, makes me so happy! Everything is Hunky Dory!

Love having my boys home. Yesterday they helped me clean blinds that are down while my husband is painting our home. Thanks for everything guys.

Happy Wednesday.

Peanut Butter Bars

2010-05-23T18:28:00.000-07:00

Mike is the pro at making Peanut Butter bars. I have not the patience for the 3 painstaking procedures it takes to complete these lunchlady favorites. Love to eat them with a glass of cold milk. Lunch ladies unite!

Crazy Daisy

2010-05-22T16:36:00.000-07:00

Oh, Huck, you love to nap next to me while I stitch away.

Today I finished my Crazy Daisy applique. So cute and happpy.

I hung it in my bathroom to add a little fun to the room. Now for some new, bright towels to match.

What are you working on?

Nachooooooooooooo!

2010-05-12T07:41:00.000-07:00

"Nachoooooooooooooooooo!"

"Can't you see this woman is a Nun? If you have a problem with that then you can fight me."

"It sucks to be me right now."

I love the Nacho. Last night Tristan had his Symphonic band concert and they performed a Spanish themed song. Tristan talked his band teacher into letting him wear his Luchadore mask during the performance. I giggled and smiled through the performance, so proud of my funny son. I have no picture of him performing but, I thought this would be fine. Have a great day.

Inspired

2010-05-06T08:50:00.000-07:00

My sister in law Pam shared this on her blog this morning and I felt my Savior's love for me as I watched it. Please enjoy. Have a great day.

Mentoring

2010-05-03T16:54:00.000-07:00

I am a Relief Society mentor for a cute gal in our ward by the name of Elise. She will officially be in Relief Society very soon so I mad her this cute bag to present her to her with her manual in it. She can flarp it over her shoulder on Sundays and come to Relief Society in style.

Cotton and Mallory

2010-05-02T20:08:00.000-07:00

Cotton and Mallory had a wonderful time at Prom. So fun to see your children experience the fun things in life.

First Prom

2010-05-01T20:52:00.000-07:00

Cotton is attending his Jr. Prom tonight. He looked so handsome. I hope he has a great time. I'll post pics of Cotton and his date as soon as I get them.

Words to live by

2010-04-30T12:31:00.001-07:00

I made this pillow for a friend's birthday present. I think I will make one for my home too.

Jacob and Chloe

2010-04-23T06:29:00.000-07:00

My handsome nephew Jacob Edward Villarreal and his sweetie Chloe attended prom last weekend in Yuma, AZ.
Jacob is a twin and I love both of them. Jacob is a great kid.
My favorite memory of Jacob and me is:
Jacob was maybe 14 and we watched THE GRUDGE at his house. I remember waking up the next morning and seeing Jacob sleeping by me because he was spooked by the movie. Such a tough kid sleeping by his auntie for protection.
I love Jacob.

Erva

2010-04-20T09:44:00.000-07:00

This is Mike's mom Erva, she is is visiting from Pennsylvania. We have an amazing thing in common besides her son and my husband Mike. We are both Scentsy Directors and consultants. We have alot of fun talking Scentsy!

I think this is a great shot of her to use for her Scentsy website, what do you think?

Erva doubles as a photographer. She took this pic of my handsome family on Sunday.

This is a beautiful tulip close to my front door. This tulip has greeted me for the past four days every time I go outside. Thank you tulip. Have a great day.

Spring break 2010

2010-04-09T19:04:00.000-07:00

This is Tristan and his friend Angelica. They are in the basement as we speak with 7 other 12-15 year olds celebrating Spring break 2010. I made 3 delicious homemade pepperoni pizzas, breadsticks, and the girls brought dessert. The pizza and breadsticks are gone, Mike and I are watching a movie in our room and can hear one of the seven screaming at the top of their lungs while playing Rockband. Ahh, the life of parents, banished to their room for the evening, until it is time to play Fugitive and then the parents will be invited to drive around Lehi, Utah and search for the 'fugitive' teens. Life is good.

I remember driving up Provo canyon with my fiance 20 years ago, and him asking me what was the thing I wanted to be most in my lifetime. I answered quickly without thinking, answering, "I want to be a mom". I am so blessed. Enjoy your Spring break.

Easter Dinner

2010-04-09T18:46:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Easter this last Sunday with my parents. We watched General conference and then had a delicious Easter meal. Ham, potato salad, baked beans, dilly carrots, rolls, and yummy strawberry pie. Mike and my dad complained when I gave them each quarter of strawberry pie. "Cheese and Rice, we can't eat that big of a piece of pie", they exclaimed and then downed it quickly.

The boys love spending time with grandma and grandpa Fraughton. We wished grandma and grandpa Fitzsimmons lived closer.

And this picture of the Jordan River Temple I accidentally put in this post and cannot figure out how to delete it so, enjoy.

1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19.

2010-03-28T12:34:00.000-07:00

Huh, 19 years goes by fast when you are having fun. I love you Mike. Happy Anniversary.

Happy thoughts

2010-03-26T10:08:00.001-07:00

This morning Mike and I drove to Salt Lake to have some tests ran for our new health insurance package, we can receive a discount on our health insurance if we participate in the APPLE program. The snow was falling as we drove in the morning rush and then after being told that I had awesome blood pressure and cholesterol readings but am officially obese according to standards set by who knows we stopped in at Village Inn and had a breakfast date. What a fun morning with my date Mike, I love him.
Now just to share with you the sights in my home that are bringing me 'Happy Thoughts' on this blustery Spring day.

My incredibly sweet pink peony pin.

Easter Bunny peering out from behind pic of my adorable parents.

Sweet blue eggs in glass cloche.

Nest with eggs sitting happily on a pedestal.

Mike's and my family tree in the entry.

Chocolate bunny driving a sports car.

Chocolate bunny riding in chariot pulled by Easter chick (makes me think of Charleston Heston parting the red sea).

Chocolate bunny hitching a ride on a red rooster.

Flower covered eggs.

Snickerdoodle blondies made with love.

(Thank you for the recipe Erin!)

Look around you and search out what brings you happy thoughts today! Hope you all have an incredible weekend.

2010-03-22T09:58:00.000-07:00

This sweet sugar egg was given to me when my Great Aunt Dode passed away. I love the little hummingbird egg candies and the pond(mirror) that Peter Cottontail is standing by! Takes me right back to being small and wanting to live inside this egg.

Have a great day and take time to look at something that makes you happy!

YOU SHALL NOT PASS!

2010-03-17T19:28:00.000-07:00

O.K., today after school Cotton was making giggle and pee a little with this performance. I kept on thinking of Wizard of OZ, The Princess Bride and a Disney book I read to my boys ALL THE TIME when they were small - MICKEY AND THE GIANT. I think this post is one of those that only a mom feels is blog worthy.

St. Paddy's Day

2010-03-17T18:50:00.000-07:00

What a great day of wearing the green. Today started early, I opened the Scentsy booth at the Holy Cow boutique in Pleasant Grove. I love working this boutique, it is well advertised and there are many great booths that I love to see there.

I am amazed how much Scentsy has grown in the last three years. I love Scentsy.

Two years ago Scentsy introduced Plug-ins and they have been so popular! Here is a look at our plug-in display, so fun.

Tristan and Justus get off to school in the morning at 7:30 a.m. and I have been known on occasion to ask them to please tip toe into my room and give me a kiss and whisper goodbye while my eyes remain closed. When Tristan walked in the door this afternoon from school I laughed so hard when I saw what he wore to school for St Paddy's, his green bathrobe that he purchased from D.I. for 5 bones. He is such a funny character!

I must admit that the most joyous part of St. Paddy's day is when I learned I was a Grandma! Meet Franklin Cotton Fitzsimmons. Poor Cotton is trying to catch some shut eye before his computerized baby from his Adult Roles class at school wakes up.

Makes a Grandma proud (I think he has my eyes).

Cotton does not know who the mom is but, he has asked his friend Jeni to be a foster mom.

I also enjoyed a pedicure with two of my friends Tanya and Ali.

Ali

Tanya and me

We had a well-deserved time-out and I am so grateful for it!

The day of green ended with a delicious meal of corned beef, cabbage and baby red potatoes with vinegar of course.

Happy Birthday baby!

2010-03-13T14:47:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is my sweet husband's 41st birthday. I'm sure he will agree that his 40th year was quite an adventure, and I know he is excited about the year to come! My husband never stops! He is always busy with work, family, life! Not much time for sleep. Happy Birthday Mike, I love you and am glad we chose each other.

Happiness walks on busy feet. - Kittie Turmell

Boys and Chocolate Chip Cookies

2010-03-10T15:18:00.000-08:00

Last Weekend my family and I took a quick trip to Phoenix for my great-niece Bella's blessing. This is a 11-12 hour drive but so worth it to be there for this sweet event. My parents have been in Phoenix for two months and I was excited to see them too. Here is my beautiful mom feeding beautiful Bella.
After the blessing we had a yummy lunch of ham, potato salad, pistachio salad, rolls, dips with chips and french bread and these yummy cookies. We made 2 batches of cookies, each had 6 cups of flour in them and they were eaten immediately by all.

Aunt Lori makes sure she has chocolate syrup for Justus when he comes. He has a problem with chocolate milk.

J.J. my nephew is a sweetheart with a goofy sense of humor.

Cotton and Jacob, can you say TROUBLE?!!!

Tristan was excited that Meigen came home from school for the weekend.

I will post pics from the blessing day soon. Had so much fun. Here is the yummy cookie recipe, enjoy!

Mrs. Field's Cookies

1 bloody pound of butter

1 1/2 cups sugar

2 cups brown sugar

3 eggs

2 T. vanilla

6 cups flour

1 1/2 tsp. salt

1 1/2 tsp. baking soda

Beat sugars until smooth, add butter and cream well. Add eggs and vanilla and mix. Add dry ingredients. Add 4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips. Bake at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes. Hide cookies in cupboard.

The Tender Mercies of the Lord

2010-03-08T22:12:00.000-08:00

Please click on the title below to watch this video. I see tender mercies of the Lord every day in my life. So thankful for them.

The Tender Mercies of the Lord

I can almost taste it.

2010-03-01T08:28:00.000-08:00

This morning I can almost taste it... The sky is blue the Sun is out and the snow is melted. Soon birds will be singing, Crocus will be pushing the earth up and blooming - Bless their hearts -, and the baby lambs at Christofferson farm will be born. I love Spring. Have a great day!

Make your own laundry detergent sister!

2010-02-21T18:17:00.000-08:00

Last year my friend Kayola posted a recipe to make laundry detergent. I have made my 4th batch and have been pleased with the clean, fresh results on my family of men's clothes and an occasional frilly garment of mine. I have saved alot of money this past year making my own laundry detergent and used the extra money to buy yummy smelling fabric softener. You only need 2 Tablespoons of detergent for each load. This detergent will work in top loading and front loading machines. If you have a front loader you will only need to add a bit of warm water to the detergent in a small bowl and give it a stir to help the soap begin to dissolve. You will need: One 4 pound box of Borax

One 4 pound box of Arm & Hammer Laundry Soda

Two 4 pound boxes of Arm & Hammer Baking Soda

One and 1/3 bars of Zote Laundry soap, grated or

Two bars of Fels Naptha Laundry soap, grated.

I found all of these ingredients at my loca grocery store and Walmart. I mix everything together in a 5 gallon bucket and then transfer it to a pretty glass jar. This batch of laundry detergent lasts for months and I feel like a smart, frugal gal. Nothing wrong with that.

This lovely plate that is displayed in my laundry room is a small trinket I took from my dear mother's house while she was gallivanting in Arizona. Hope you don't mind Mom, I'll give it back if I must, but I feel empowered every time I read it.

This cute little stitchery hangs in my laundry room across from my antique washboards, my mom, sister and I all made this and my dad made each of us the frame they are displayed in. My dad makes beautiful frames.

I hope each of you get a bug to try this laundry detergent. I love it. Put something in your laundry room that makes you feel, cute and sassy when you look at it and laundry won't be such an UGLY chore.

Hearts and such

2010-02-10T21:47:00.000-08:00

Love is in the air at our home, as you can see, every corner holds a reminder that Cupid has a job to do.

Today I made Valentine's cookies. Made from the love in my heart. I felt true bliss as I cut out these sweet treats and spent a good part of the day in the kitchen. I remembered today what I love to do the most, and where I am happiest.

Happiness and bliss shining in my eyes!

About 8 dozen Valentine's cookies later, I had frosted most of the cookies with homemade cream cheese frosting and strawberry frosting too, and I put 3 dozen cookies in the freezer for Sunday.

I then put the prettiest cookies on plates for sweet, sweet neighbors. I waited for Tristan and Justus to get home from school and then we put our Cupid wings on and hitched our bow and arrows to our backs and jumped in the cruiser to share the love!

Look at these sweet gals that live close by holding true love in their hands. I could shed a tear. My heart is full.

Justus and Tristan's grandparents are far away, so they delivered cookies to The Sheltons who live in our neighborhood. Carla would have nothing to do with having her pic on the w.w.w. but I'm telling you her sweetheart was more than happy to be a stand-in Grandpa to these young blokes. We love the Sheltons.

Wishing you all a visit from Cupid, and take time to share the love with everyone. I love you, you're the best!

2010-02-08T09:33:00.000-08:00

Good Monday to you! Here is a sneak peak at some of the new plug-ins and warmers that will be available March 1st, 2010. If you would love to receive a Spring/Summer 2010 catalog from me just enter your mailing address in as a comment and I will get one to you.

Bella

2010-02-03T10:38:00.001-08:00

My Great Niece Bella Mae. Why so serious? Isn't she so cute?!!!

Merger

2010-02-02T22:35:00.000-08:00

I love Authentic by Moda.

Today I found this fun charm pack OZ by Moda. I may for fun try to make something with the two of these lines together. I'll let you know.

Have I Done Any Good in the World Today?

2010-02-02T10:21:00.000-08:00

Have I Done Any Good in the World Today?

There must be an angel

2010-01-27T22:14:00.000-08:00

I apologize, I had to.

SPARK

2010-01-25T07:26:00.000-08:00

Very Thankful to those who share a spark with me every now and again. Have a great week.

Pto Vallarta, Mexico

2010-01-17T13:45:00.000-08:00

Hola! I just returned from a Scentsy Director Training retreat in Pto. Vallarta Mexico. Dream it, Do it was the theme for this retreat and I am ready to do just that in 2010.
Joy Quist from Washington and Tanya Roylance from Utah are directors in my group that were able to attend, I wish every director in my group would have been able to attend.

We were able to gain wonderful knowledge while in Mexico and gain some pounds from the delicious food and beverage offered.

This was the view from the front desk of DREAMS resort.

Jess Gushard and Dannette Klein are the two directors I flew to Mexico with, we were invited a day early to attend Superstar training. I love these to women.

The beach and ocean were beautiful.

Beautiful Hibiscus.

Bananas

Bloom where you are planted is what I always say.

We spent one afternoon on a boat whale watching. This was my favorite activity.

Graceful animals.

I was able to learn, relax, meet new friends and share great experiences with women that I admire, and cherish. I am grateful for my association with Scentsy. Have a wonderful week!

Lead By Example

2010-01-09T13:50:00.000-08:00

This is a card I made for a consultant on my Scentsy team. She promoted to a Lead consultant in December. she has started building her very own team and I thought this was appropriate advice to congratulate her with - LEAD BY EXAMPLE. I love how the smallest bird is watching every step the big bird in front is making.)
Human beans (beings) are great when it comes to telling others how to do something, "You should wash your hands before you make a sandwich," "You can help a friend take care of a difficult situation" etc. The best way to help someone accomplish something is to LEAD them and show them by your example. What a great idea!

Chocolate Ice Cream Birthday Cake

2010-01-09T13:39:00.000-08:00

Cotton and I had a wonderful birthday. Mike made us a yummy, beautiful cake! Hope my wish comes true!

Mom and Dad came over and celebrated with us, what a pair they are.

When my youngest son Justus was very young there was a commercial on t.v. for a Betty Crocker FILL AND BAKE CAKE PAN SET. Justus told Mike that I needed this cake pan, so Mike ordered it. Justus always knows what mom needs. Here is our birthday cake held by the talented baker, Clifford Michael Fitzsimmons. What a good man.

I have decided that Mike will always be the birthday cake baker for Cotton's and my
Birthday cake. It was divine.

Happy Birthday Cotton

2010-01-03T12:08:00.001-08:00

Today is My oldest son Cotton's 17th Birthday. On my 25th Birthday Cotton came from Heaven. Cotton and I share a Birthday and I wouldn't have it any other way. We have alot of fun together on January 3rd. This is Cotton's Birthday shoe (size 13).

This is Cotton on his 17th Birthday wearing his Birthday sports jacket. Isn't he handsome?

This is Cotton and me in our annual Birthday portrait, wow he sure is tall. I can remember 17 very clearly, like it was yesterday. Happy Birthday Cotton, I love you. Love, Mom

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T10:34:00.000-08:00

Borrowed this from Moda Bake Shop.

2010, It's gonna be an awesome year!

You're not going to die...

2009-12-29T12:26:00.001-08:00

I am excited for 2010! I know this will be an incredible year. My theme for 2010 shall be You're not going to die... Let me explain.

Last October I had the opportunity to attend Scentsy Director Boot Camp in Boise, Idaho. This is a training program for Scentsy Directors to learn from the best, how to run a Successful Scentsy business, including consultant training, organization, conflict resolution, etc. Every Scentsy Director should make this a must!

This is Jason Harwood, he had awesome information for us and made us giggle more than once.

Please skip this picture and go to the next picture of Joal Curtis, Scentsy's part-time psychologist (really? Yes, really, Scentsy has a psychologist)

This is Joal, he taught a great workshop on conflict resolution with customers, consultants, really any conflict you may have with another human being. He told us that every conflict can be resolved as long as you know what the fear of the person you are having the conflict with is. He boiled this down to every person who is having a conflict has the same fear of dying from results of the conflict, but he didn't tell us this answer, we had to figure it out. Blah, blah, blah, So, in the above picture of me I was saying to Mr. Joal Curtis, "So I can just tell the conflicted person, look, you're not going to die." He said, "That is the answer but, you're not going to tell them that, you are going to help them realize this and help them feel safe, therefore they will know they are not going to die." Well, this was a huge light bulb moment for me, since this bootcamp I have been able to use this conflict resolution with others and ALOT in my own life. YOU'RE NOT GOING TO DIE! Bring on 2010!

Here is my graduation pic from bootcamp. I learned alot and had a great time. Poor Orville closed his eyes in this picture, oh well, he's not going to die.

Santa

2009-12-23T21:00:00.000-08:00

I remember when I was a young girl on a Christmas eve, almost ready to go to bed and the phone rang, it was Santa!, and he wanted to talk to me! I was so excited, I'm sure I told him I had been a good girl and I made sure to let him know that I wanted a barbie townhouse. I got the barbie townhouse, and I believe! Merry Christmas everyone!

Winter Wonderland

2009-12-21T09:27:00.001-08:00

I am finally going to be able to work on this fun winter quilt. Scentsy craziness has hopefully simmered down just a bit to allow me to do some fun stuff. I have been working on this quilt for 2 winters now, and have only 3 of the stitching blocks left to finish, then on to the piecing.

My mom finished hers this winter and has it on her bed and it is adorable. Hope you have a wonderful Christmas!

One of those days

2009-12-15T07:12:00.000-08:00

Ever have one of those days?

Lion House rolls and an awesome gift!

2009-12-12T20:13:00.001-08:00

This past week 30+ Scentsy consultants got together for a Christmas party. I made Lion House rolls for the pulled pork and I want to share the recipe with you.

Lion House dinner rolls

2 tablespoons dry yeast

2 cups warm water

1/3 cup sugar

1/3 cup shortening (butter, margarine, or vegetable shortening)

2 1/2 teaspoons salt

2/3 cup nonfat dry milk

5 to 6 cups flour

1 egg

In the large bowl of an electric mixer, combine yeast and water. Let stand 5 minutes. Add sugar, shortening, salt, dry milk, 2 cups flour, and egg. Beat together until very smooth. Add 2 more cups flour, one at a time, and beat until smooth. Add about one more cup flour, 1/2 cup at a time (in your mixer if it will take it, or by hand), until it is well mixed in. Turn dough onto a lightly floured board and knead until it is smooth and satiny. Gather dough into a ball. Scrape bowl clean and grease it with shortening. Return dough to bowl and grease surface lightly. Let rise away from drafts in a warm (not hot) place until about triple in bulk.

Use the last of the flour as needed on the board for rolling and shaping the dough. (Don't use it all unless you need it.) Let dough rest on board for 10 minutes so it will be easier to manage if you roll it.

Cut or mold into desired shapes. Place on greased baking sheets. Brush surface of rolls with melted butter.

Let rise in warm place until ready for oven (about 1 1/2 hours).

Bake at 400 degrees F. for 15 to 20 minutes, or until browned to your satisfaction. Makes about 3 dozen rolls.

At our party we had a gift exchange. My cousin Brandy brought this cute little antique jar. She picked it and unwrapped it on her turn and I absolutely loved it! When my turn came to pick a gift I took the jar from Brandy. My friend Tanya took it from me when it was her turn to choose a gift and I was heart sick. To my surprise, at the end of the gift exchange Tanya traded me the jar for my gift of nail polishes, she said she had stole the jar from me because she could tell I loved it and she stole it to save it from someone else getting it. Thanks Tanya! I love my jar.

Ragamuffin

2009-12-06T19:09:00.000-08:00

My niece Shawny made an adorable ragamuffin garland (http://nestingplacenc.blogspot.com/) for my sister, I saw it and I wanted to make one for my salon. I finished it today while visiting with my mom and I think it turned out very sweet and cute. Merry, Merry!

This is a pic of my family on Thanksgiving. Tristan was working the camera and trying to sit back before the picture was snapped. We all were laughing hard while doing this. I think it is a perfect picture for our family Christmas card, what do you think?

Last, but not least, my sons decorated their Christmas tree tonight. Their Christmas tree has every ornament they have made and given to me and ornaments they have received each year from Mike and me. This tree makes me so happy, I can look at each ornament and a memory from Christmas past pops into my head. I love Christmas and I love my sons.

It's the most wonderful time of the year!

I heart Bunco!

2009-12-02T22:12:00.001-08:00

O.K. after many, many, years of beeming with proudness that I had NEVER attended a Bunco night group I caved and attended my first one tonight and I am hooked!

I am now a member of a Bunco group and I had such a great time with some great women who love their families, love chocolate, and look forward to a night of rolling dice and giggling. Yummy dinner too. I will be in charge of August 2010 Bunco and I have already informed the group that it will be a night filled with Journey music playing in the background, because that is how I roll (get it?).

Snowmen

2009-11-30T11:48:00.000-08:00

Have I told you I love snowmen? I collect a new one each year and display them in my home. They are happy little people with warm hearts and they are always waiting for new friends. Love you snowmen, don't go changin'

Snow on the pumpkin

2009-11-24T09:32:00.000-08:00

I love the first snow of the season, poor pumpkin!