December 31st

It is New Years Eve! We are excited to celebrate the day. K and T will be going to a New Years Eve Party. They are pretty excited about it. It will cover about 7 different stakes. So I am sure they will spend the day getting ready.

K and T went to their evening of fun. They said they had the best time, even better than any other dances they have been too. They danced alot and met new guys, just pretty much enjoyed themselves.

We had a big miracle happen to us today. We have been working with KM on our business and he has been working with TB. TB told KM that he wanted him to meet someone who was very important to him. This man was just like TB 's brother. He loved him that much. These are people that KM plans on telling about our business. Well the guy that TB is just like a brother too, is the same guy that my oldest son met at work over a year ago. He told my oldest son that he would be willing to invest in our company if we would just give him some information. My son tried several times after that to reach the man, but had no success. My husband knew that this man would come back to store where my oldest son works, during the Christmas season, then he could scedule a meeting for the partners to meet. Isn't it interesting how the Lord aready has planned things out. My son will meet with him again, just not in the way he planned. We are looking forward to a meeting soon, and are so excited. Another great miracle in our life.

December 30th Wednesday

Tonight K and T went to Young Women. They went to their leaders home and made pizza. They came home and announced that they loved their ward. All they did tonight was talk and share fun experiences. They absolutely loved it. I am happy that they are so happy.

Today is almost the last day of this year. I am excited for the new year and all it brings. It is going to be one of those years that all bring everything together for uf. I am excited to start this year. The country worries me alot. Those who are in leadership positions right now really are clueless as to what this country really needs. They are trying to force health care on us. No one realizes what this health care will do. We will all be required to spent about 17 thousand dollars a year in health care. If we don't have health care we can be sent to prison, or fined 250 thousand dollar. Now that is what I call free health care. It is pretty sad. We will pray for our leaders and hope they can aquire some sort of sense.

Right now my miracle for today is that we live in this free country. Because right now it is certainly free for all of us to make our own decisions.

December 29th Tuesday

Today my children all went back home. It was hard to see them go. We have had a great Christmas and a good visit. I went to my Mothers today and gave her a perm. She insisted on paying me again. I made $30.00, so once again I have a little money.

My mother in law gave me a gift certificate to the mall. I was great to go shopping yesterday with my husband because I had money to spend. I bought myself a little jacket and a sweater. They are wonderful. My husband also got some pants that didn't fit. He went back to the store and was able to purchase 2 pair of levi's. We both had a very rewarding day. It was a little miracle to be able to shop.

December 28th Monday

It is Monday. It has been a cold day once again. My grandchildren would like to be outside riding their scooters that they received from Santa, but the weather doesn't permit that, so they are riding around in my home. The only problem is that we have renters in the basement. Riding those scooters across the kitchen floor can be rather noisey and there is a baby in the basement sleeping. That makes it difficult for my grandchildren, because I am continually asking them to stay out of the kitchen. Sometimes I think that they think their grandmother is just plain mean. But my son is the one that lives in the basement and I have a grandchild down there as well. I guess in a way you would say I am in a no win situation. I try not to get to upset, I know that all of my grandchildren are special to me. Sometimes I try to get them to do other things, so they can get their minds off their scooters, but sometimes those scooters are just to inviting to a child. And sometimes it is just fun to watch them ride around. We know that by tomorrow those scooters with be gone, we will miss them. With the scooters going that means our grandchildren are going. And that doesn't sound good at all. So the day will go as normal with some joyous children riding around, then tomorrow there will be silence. So we are grateful for the miracle of scooters.

December 27th Sunday

What a great inspiring uplifting day. All of our meetings today were uplifting. We enjoyed the speakers in Sacrament Meeting. The Urquhart's spoke to us and talked about the 4 S's that we as a stake are trying to live with a little more importance. They are "Stricked Obedience, " "Scripture Study," and "Service. "I know that if we would all follow this council we would certainly be better people. Sunday School and Relief Society were just as wonderful. After such great meetings we come home to spend time with family. They are still here and we are loving them. They will be leaving on Tuesday. When they go we will truly be sad, but we are also happy to have celebrated with them a wonderful Christmas. I hate to see the holiday's end and our lives return to normal. But we have thoroughly enjoyed this day, we even got together to play games. It is fun to enjoy family with laughter and excitement. All of us together seem to find that excitement. We are certainly grateful for it. It is truly a miracle to have so much fun.

December 26th Saturday 2009

It has been a super great day. We have enjoyed the left overs and the company. I had two amazing miracles happen to me today. I bought my twins some paints and some paint brushes. I knew that I put them in my closet. But for the past couple of days I have searched trying to find them, but to no avail. Well today I decided I just needed to pray more fervently. I did an then started to talk to my daughter in Pittsburgh. Suddenly during the conversation I knew I needed to search my closet again. I needed to go through my closet and push each article of clothing aside one by one. So I did just that. I got the the very last hanger and saw the paints and paint brushes, then I suddenly remembered that I needed to hide them so I put the sack over the hanger. I was guided to find them by the Holy Ghost. What a great blessing in my life.

We have been missing one of the Wii remotes. They are quite pricey. We have already replaced one thanks to my brother. So I was a bit concerned. I searched the house. Then I remember seeing my daughters tupperware full of their winter clothing that she had brought, so her children could play in the snow. I felt that I needed to look there. And that is where it was. It was nice to have 2 miracles happen today in my life. It may seem like a small thing, but to me it was super. I am grateful for miracles.

December 25th

It is Christmas and truly a special day. It has been just that for our family. I know that each member of my family just got clothes and not a whole lot more but I am grateful for those clothes. I am especially grateful for the person that had my name this year. I know that it wasn't easy for her, especially when she has a little family of her own. I just want to Thank her. She is a special young lady as all my children are. I know that the person that had my name couldn't get out because of car problems, so she sent a message for my other daughter to shop and she did. I just love how my children have so much love for each other that they will help, when they need too. The true spirit of Christmas is family, love and giving because that is what the Savior would do if her were here.

All of my children were so good and so cute with each other and their different assignments. They went beyond themselves. They filled there obligations gloriously. I can't thank them enough. They cooperated so much. They helped me so that things would be easier for me this Christmas. I also want to Thank my husband for his love and support through the past few days. Super Christmas. My miracles are that just miracles. Too many to count as my grand daughter said when I asked her what she got for Christmas. So many things she couldn't say them all. Such gratitude for such little things. We can't ask for more.

December 24th 2009

It is Christmas Eve! What a great time of the year. We had our usual Christmas Eve dinner which consisted of turkey, ham, potato's, gravy, green salad, cranberry jello salad, fresh rolls, peas, carrots, and pies. Our pies consisted of apple, blueberry, pumpkin and coconut cream. We made 13. We were expecting 21 people tonight for supper, but only 18 came. Thanks to a generous person who help us have this great meal, we made it. We can't thank all those angels out there enough. So Thank-you.

Our children were all here but 1 daughter and her husband and children, whom we greatly missed. But maybe next year they can be with us. All the grand children were so excited that they went to bed well tonight. Santa will be here tonight and each child will have the sparkle of the Christmas spirit in there eyes in the morning, as they open their presents. We love each one of them.

It was fun tonight to watch Santa as he gently laid all the presents out carefully and arranged each one in its perfect spot. Some of Santa's helpers filled the stockings, then they were quickly gone. It was quite the evening. Each parent out there knows what excitement can come and yet a little anxiety along with it, because we never know how are children will handle each present, whether they will love them or hate them. And what if Carol gets to many presents and Alma feels bad because of it. I hope as we each go to bed tonight that our thoughts will be on the real meaning of Christmas instead of the commercial side. Let us really remember whose day this is and what this day is all about, that it is about our Savior, Jesus Christ We are all so blessed because of his birth and I hope we can all remember that tonight. It is truly our miracle.

December 23rd

Family are coming to see us today. We get to celebrate our holidays with grand children once again. I am so excited to see them all and give them all a big hug. We are so lucky to have such wonderful children and grand children. We are waiting for there arrival and hope they get here safely. The snow continues to come down. Right now I am preparing for their arrival by cleaning and changing bed sheets. Can't wait.

Our daughter and her husband both arrived safely from Houston, Texas. We were so excited to see them and grateful they are here. Our other children decided to start and make their journey tomorrow, because their Dad had to work late and he has been sick. None of my grandchildren were to excited about that, but I feel better about them coming tomorrow. The roads aren't to good tonight. So all of the children were a little upset. But there Mom told them they could get up and come first thing in the morning. So my grandson climbed on his bed and the minute his mom walked in the room he sat up and said, "Mom I just waked up." It is so cute to think that our grand children want to come up. We are super excited to see them tomorrow. We are so lucky to have such great children who have such great kids. They are all miracles in our eyes.

December 22nd

We went to the temple this morning. First we went to the Provo temple, but it was closed for cleaning, so we went to the American Fork temple. It was wonderful, but with everything that happened, including the bad weather we didn't get home until about 3:00. My husband had a plumbing project so we had to shop for the parts we needed. The plumbing is all done now, so we are all happy because we will be able to share in all the hot water.

It was a great day. When I go to the temple it is always a great day. I am so grateful for the beautiful snow. It makes the whole valley look so pure and white. And at night when it is dark, the white glistens under the moon and stars and it looks like day light. It is beautiful and I am glad that I have the opportunity to share in such beauty. I think it is a true miracle.

December 21st

I worked for John again today. Once again a crazy day. He paid me $155.00 for Saturday and today. I was grateful for the money. Once again it is something we needed desperately. We have so much to cover in the next little while. Every little bit of money I get is counted as a true blessing. I am sure that our Father-in-Heaven is watching out for our family. I really wanted to go to the temple today but working was something I needed to do as well, so I will go tomorrow. But I am grateful for all the angels that have been in my life in the last little while. They are truly a miracle, and I just want to say Thank-you.

Our greatest little miracle of the day was that a turkey was left on our door step. I am so excited I can't stand it. Our angels at Christmas time are unbelievably.

December 20th

I wonderful Sunday as usual. We had a great Christmas program. K and T sand in the choir with me. Everyone commented on how beautiful it was. We sang 3 songs. We had a wonderful speaker and sang a few hymns as a congregation. The bishop closed with a few words. It was a wonderful Sabbath day. My husband gave a great Sunday school lesson, which was on all of us striving to be a more Zion people. It was great. For Relief Society we talked about Joseph Smith and some of his Christmas's, also talked about a lot of different prophet's testimonies concerning Joseph Smith. It was a wonderful lesson. It brought tears to my eyes.

Dinner was already made, because my husband had made it last night, but we went to the neighborhood party. So we ate there. It made my day pretty easy today and I am grateful for that.

Tonight we attended a Stake musical fireside. Once again we sang as a ward choir. The meeting was wonderful. Many groups sang and some individuals. The meeting ended with Brother Hill speaking, he is a member of our Stake Presidency. He did a wonderful job. He talked about the birth of Christ and his mission. It was very uplifting. Right after the meeting we had tithing settlement, in that meeting the bishop asked that I and my husband stay after for a few minutes. He presented us a check for $200.00 and told us someone knew we needed help in the ward and they wanted us to have a little something for Christmas. I cried, I couldn't believe that something like that could happen. It was truly a miracle from the Lord. Once again we are being watched out for.

December 19th

Another day at work. It is kind of crazy how things work. I didn't have a ride to SLC so I called my brother who has a store close to John's and I asked for a ride. He said sure. It was fun to go up with him and my other brother. Bob drove me on to John's shop, and that was really nice of him. Because his shop was quite busy too. But John didn't go to work today so I was on my own when it came to going. I arrived about 9:45. I said to Bob when you get ready to leave let me know. Well one of John's employee's was leaving at 3:00 so I called Bob and asked if he was ready to go. He said come when you want too. So we left at about 3:15. I had been really busy on Friday and busy again on Saturday. As a matter of fact it was still busy when we left. But John's employee that drove me told the other ladies call her if they needed help. So we left. But Bob's Store was busy too. So we didn't get out of there until about 5:30. We had fun at Bob's shop then talked all the way home. Soon we were home. My other brother dropped Bob off and we went shopping to buy some food. Tom spent close to $100.00 on food and gave me most of it, another great blessing and miracle for our family.

It was our neighborhood Christmas party at Mom's tonight. I was so exhausted and had such a bad headache I didn't want to go. But my husband and I walked over and I told my mother how I felt. I have a great neighbor and she was concerned about me, so she asked another neighbor, Clair to work on my head. She is a physical therapist. She helped me a lot we all ate. Then we headed home and didn't participate in the present exchange. I was just to worn out.

My husband had his meeting today. It went very well and things are continuing to progress. They will have another meeting in a couple of weeks. I pray that this one will be it, things will go well. All involved need this blessing. I am grateful for the miracle of this day.

December 18th

Today I went to work at John's all day. I am so exhausted tonight. I feel as though I have been run over by a freight train. But he paid me $100.00 dollars. Right now that is a blessing for us. So even though I am exhausted I am grateful for the money.

My husband had supper made for me and the house cleaned. My children helped in the cleaning, especially P according to my husband. It was a great meal. I had mashed garlic potato's as well as meat cut up with onions. I also had fresh cut carrots that were cooked to perfection. The whole meal was just what I needed. Especially after a crazy day at work.

The guy that was suppose to have the meeting with my husband got a little busy, so the meeting is rescheduled for tomorrow. I am so happy about that. It isn't postponed for a week or so. In our case that is truly a miracle.

Deember 17th

John called today and he wanted me to work for him today, but I don't want to be driving that far on my own to just work a couple of hours. With all the commuting it just isn't worth doing that. I told him I would come Friday and Saturday. If he had have called me earlier I would have gone, because we need the money. But it was a great day today because I got my sewing room cleaned out. My girls have been sewing a lot because they are trying to catch up some things in sewing, so it was a pretty big mess. But it is clean now and that is something that makes me very happy.

My husband has a meeting tomorrow and that is a miracle. Another person to help us find money for my husbands business. I am so grateful for this miracle. I have always wanted this person to be involved and I know that things will finally work out. I think it is truly a miracle.

December 16th

It has been a good day. We are finally home after 4 days. The girls went back to school, they are catching up on what they are behind. I had a great day staying home and trying to catch up on come cleaning, before Christmas. We also had a Ward Christmas party this evening. There were a lot of tables set up. They were the long tables and there were probably about 14 set up. So about 7 in each row. We were on table 13. By the time it was our turn to go through the line, there was hardly any food left. Luckily some of my fruit salad was left, some rolls and a little bit of ham, so we at least ate. My son and his wife were there. My oldest daughter and her husband were there and I and my husband and 2 teenage daughters. It was wonderful to all be there together. And we had plenty of desert. All and all it is nice to be a part of a great ward. We had a little program, it was wonderful. We all sang together and Brother Rowley read a beautiful story. Then our bishop talked for a few minutes. It was great to be around people that love us. My miracle for today was just living in this beautiful area, and in such a wonderful ward.

December 15th

It's Tuesday and we finally got some word on the vehicle. It is the main box for the electrical system. $200.00 late and they can't do anything for us. It will cost my daughter about a thousand dollars for the box and the installation. I am so sad, it is Christmas and she is having to pay out this kind of money. I love her and her generosity to let us use it and I feel bad that this has happened. I pray that we can find a cheaper solution for her.

My son just called and he has borrowed his father-in-laws truck, he borrowed a long trailer to haul the car back to our home, from my brother. All of this fell into place so quickly. I can't believe we are going to be home tonight. The whole thing was a miracle. Mike's mother in law pulled up to the house in the truck and M asked if he could use it for a few hour's. She said you bet. Then he called my brother at the car lot and asked to borrow the trailer. He said, come and get it, we are still here. My oldest daughter was planning on coming to get us, so M had some company to come up with. When they got there K got his car and followed us. We went to the mechanic shop and they pulled the car on to the trailer with K's suburban. They all did a great job. To me it was amazing to watch, another miracle in our lives.

We headed on our way home. It was terrible weather. M traveled very slowly especially in Sardine Canyon because it is pretty much all down hill. He did a great job getting us home safely, even though there was a hugh storm pretty much the whole way home. It is a 2 hour drive and I am sure it took us about 3 hours, but we made it safe and so did both cars. Another miracle.

December 14th

It is Monday today. We are still kind of stranded. We have finally taken the car in to have it checked out. The guy we took it to, was really busy but he promised he would check it out between repairs on other vehicles. It is the end of another day and they still have determined the problem. Each hour they takes costs my daughter $65.00. I feel so bad for her. She has called today to get some information, but we can't give her any.

My girls had a great day today. They got to run around with their cousin B whom they think is one of the greatest. They went out to lunch with him and he brought a friend with him that had just returned from a mission to Chile. They thought he was great and couldn't have enjoyed the day more. In the evening they returned with their cousin and made scones with honey butter. With the left over dough they made cinnamon rolls. My husbands brother and family greatly appreciated them cooking for them. They said they had never tasted such great cinnamon rolls. We had a great evening and enjoyed cleaning up the mess together. Tonight I am just grateful to have 2 wonderful children her with us. I am grateful that they know how to cook. What a blessing for me. A true miracle that they enjoy cooking.

December 13th

Today is Sunday and not a great day when you don't have a car and have to rely on other people. The farewell was not until 12:15, so my husband got up first thing in the morning and started to head to my brothers to check on the car. Of course the cars now days are electrical so that kind of creates a few problems. We had no diagnostic equipment to hook the car up to, so it would tell us what was wrong. So many fuses were taken out and tested but nothing seemed to help. We got a little diagnostic tool from a friend of my brothers, but nothing we tried worked. So we gave up for the day and we went to Sacrament Meeting to Joshua's farewell. It was so crowded with the single adult ward that we sat in the forur It was a great meeting. Joshua will make a good missionary. I wish him good luck. As soon as the meeting was over we all meet in a big cultural hall and had lunch. There were a lot of people their and only a small number of family members showed up, but it was delicious and we enjoyed one anothers company.

We headed back to my brothers house to check on our vehicle. I wish we could pull it out of his shop, but we are kind of held bound by circumstances. We did help him with his Christmas tree and tried to show him how much we appreciated his help with everything. Then we headed back to my husbands brothers house. I feel so bad for my older daughter. She returned to her home with my parents because she had to head back to work. We appreciated so much all the good people that have made us feel welcome in their homes. It is a miracle that we are a part of such a great family, who are so giving.

December 12th

It has been a crazy day. I feel so blessed because inspite of my lack of inspiration we were truly blessed. We headed to Logan for my nieces wedding. It was later than we expected to get out because my girls had to take the ACT test in the morning. We got out at 12:00 rather than an hour earlier. The wedding was suppose to start at 2:15 , so we figured if we picked up the girls from the High School we could make it easy. Here is where our problem began. In the first place the freeway was closed about half way there, so we had to take an alternate route. It ended out taking us a half hour out of our way and the traffic was backed up with people trying to get back on the freeway, but we figured we could still make it. Then it started to snow heavy. Soon we were seeing cars off of the road because it became so slick. We were concerned. My husband said, I think we should go back, we have missed the wedding anyway. My older daughter confirmed that she felt the same way. So we turned around to head home. I got a little silent. My husband said " I am getting the feeling that you don't feel the same. I said to him. "With the snow and everything else you are making the right choice," so we kept on traveling. We turned around in Ogden. We got to about Bountiful and my husband pulled of the freeway again. He said, "I am getting the feeling that you want to go back." I said, "Well I never really felt bad about going". That was where my first mistake came. So he took the next exit and we headed back to Logan. It was plenty slick, and Sardine Canyon was the worst. But we finally made it. We went to the Luncheon. It was super, the food was good. I took 3 of my girls. There were so many empty spaces that it was a good thing that I did. A lot of the family didn't come because of the weather. My sister was so grateful that we had shown up to support them. We eat, then a few words were said. We congratulated my niece and her new husband, then headed out to the car. We were planning on staying at my husbands brothers house for the night. It was my nephews farewell the next day, he is headed on his mission. So we went out to the car. We turned it on and the car wouldn't move. We would try to excelerate, but all the car would do is go about 8 miles an hour. It was idling that fast. One of my brothers lived about 10 minutes away. He has a repair shop. So we idled to the shop. It was a nice warm place to work on the car. My brother was great, but he and my husband checked everything and couldn't see a reason for the car not to work. By then it wouldn't even start. So we left the car after a while and went to my husbands brothers house to spend the night. We knew we needed to worry about the car the next day. It was getting really late. My miracle for this crazy day, was that we made it to our destination in safety. The road's were so slick and it never stopped snowing. The snow was beautiful and made all the Christmas lights on the houses so beautiful. It was so enchanting to look at it all. I was grateful to be there. The next miracle was that we had a beautiful warm house to stay in. One that would keep us safe from the elements. And some wonderful company to be with. It was wonderful.

December 11th

It has been a great day. I went to work this morning with my brother again. I worked from 10:00 until a little after 3:00 then we headed for home. I was suppose to be home by 3:00 so we could attend the temple, but it got kind of busy at his shop. He owns a CNG truck so you can only buy gas in certain places. So we headed off on the 90th south exit in SLC. Unfortunately my brother had forgotten to get his charge card from his employee. She had to go get some groceries for her baking class. So we had to sit at the CNG place for 1/2 an hour so she could bring us the card. I wasn't worried about it, I knew I could attend the temple later. My brother paid me more than I expected. He was good to me. I consider that a real blessing. Then my husband and I attended the temple. I had a wonderful time and wished I could have spent more time there. I am so grateful for the little miracles of the day. I was able to do some work for 6 of my ancestors. I had a great experience and was happy to be in the temple today. Today was a miracle in so many ways and I am happy for it.

December 10th

I went to work at my brothers shop again. I don't like the commute at all. I waste 2 hours a day. But it brings in a little money. I mean a little. It can be frustrating at times, but I consider any money at all a great blessing right now. I will be going to the shop again tomorrow. I just kind of hate to be so overwhelmed with so much to do. I will be grateful for next week. For now my miracle of the day is just having such a great family. It is nice to come home with a lot of my house clean. They are amazing, especially when they are so busy themselves. I just greatly appreciate my family, my children and my husband.

December 9th

I was suppose to go with my brother to work for him again. But his employee's that were sick called in and were coming in. So I rejoiced in staying home. My daughter's are trying to complete some sewing projects for school, that are needed for tomorrow. So it was a blessing to stay home. One of my daughters sent my husband $20.00 for his birthday, so we were able to go to Costco and bought my husband some levi's. He has not one pair without holes in them. So we once again experienced a miracle. I took the left over money and bought some much needed mascara. We were so over joyed. With some of the money my husband received we went and bought some groceries. We even got some grapefruit. They were 6 for $1.00. That was a super deal, you could say a miracle. Plus I had a great day sewing with my girls. Of course my house kind of got neglected, but tomorrow is another day. These fun experiences with our children won't be around forever.

M talked with another investor tonight. We are so happy about this one. We have another meeting on Wednesday or Thursday. We are so excited. This is indeed a miracle.

December 8th

Today is my husbands birthday and a great day it has been. My brother wanted me to come and work for him today. I did and he paid my $50.00. That helped alot because we were able to pay some more bills. I made sure I was home by 5 P.M. My children had chipped in together and cleaned my house. That was an unexpected miracle. My oldest daughter bought a beautiful cake and gave us a card with money and movie tickets in it. My 4th to the oldest daughter brought by pizza and more movie tickets, so the whole family shared in going to see "Blind Side." It was a very enjoyable movie. It was a wonderful evening for all of us. My husband also recieved several phone calls to wish him a happy birthday, plus recieved $100.00 from my parents for his birthday. What a great blessing that was. We were able to pay some credit card payments. That is always a great miracle. A very fun enjoyable evening for all of us. After the movie we came home, had some cake and enjoyed one anothers company. Certainly a day of miracle. I have my husband and that is a miracle.

December 7th

It is Monday and I am always grateful for Monday's because they are the beginning of a new week. We had several miracles happen today. My mother called me over and had me sew in 4 pairs of pants and 1 shirt. She paid me $40.00. I just feel bad that I took it especially from my parents. They are always trying to do things for us.

Someone else gave us some money. It was very unexpected and we are kind of shocked about it. It was another great blessing in our life. We are extremely grateful for it. Miracles continue to happen. We are so blessed. Sometimes we are amazed at how things just happen in our lives. Right now I really want a change for my husband. He is such an amazing man. I want a permanent fix to all of our problems, and somehow I know that it is going to happen. I know when that day comes, it will certainly be a day of expressing Thanks. Right now I am just Thankful for the little miracles of our life.

December 6th

It is Sunday once again. Sundays are a special day. And especially the first Sunday of the month because it is Fast and Testimony meeting. Some beautiful testimonies were given today. I realized that we are all special children of our Father in Heaven. He loves us, he knows of our individual needs. Sister Debor in our ward who is suffering with many trials talked about the help of peace that she receives through the power of prayer. Her husband is on dialyses because he has kidney failure. He can't have a kidney transplant because of his diabetes. A lot of times he can't even make it to church, he is so bad. I am sure she worries about losing him every day. We all need that spirit of peace. Another lady talked about her little grandson that was born weighing 10"3 . The doctor told the mother that he would be born with severe clefted palate. It would be so bad that it would cause him to be deaf and he would end out with other problems. So the family decided have a joint fast and prayer. After the fasting Sister Vincent and her husband decided to pray. Sister Vincent said, I think we should pray for a miracle. I have felt that impression all day long." So they did. Then she called her daughter. Her daughter had the same impression. So they had prayed for a miracle as well. The miracle happened and that baby was born totally normal. But he was born with a little scare on his lip. A reminder for the whole family to remember that miracle. We are so blessed as a family. We all have the gospel of Jesus Christ in our lives and are privileged to be born and raised in the church where other people can help us along our path in this life. A true miracle for our family.

December 5th

Another special little miracle happened today. MC paid us rent. We were able to pay our second mortgage today. We are behind on most of our bills but something seems to work out every time that we need something desperately. I know that the Lord knows our needs, and seems to inspire someone when they need to help us. I hate this more than anything. I want to be able to help people, instead of people helping me. I want to be the kind of person that is inspired when someone needs my help. I want to have the gift of the Holy Ghost with me at all times, so that that inspiration will come. I am so grateful for the gospel in my life and have been blessed with the gift of the Holy Ghost. It is another miracle.

December 4th

I attended a family Christmas party tonight. It was wonderful. 15 of my 17 brothers and sisters were there. It was fun to catch up on their lives. It is interesting how time flies. Some of my brothers and sisters are older and in a short time will become empty nesters. Some of them have very young children and are overwhelmed with their little families. But before they blink they will be empty nesters as well. As I have always told my children, it is over way to fast, so just love those little children. They are so precious. But our miracle for this day is the caring concern of my family. Some of them handed me money. It ended out being about $200.00. I was so grateful. It is not what I want right now. But our bills are suffering, and this can't do anything but help. My little miracle of the day happened once again.

Thank you.

This thank you goes out to the anonymous donor that paid Dad and Mom's mortgage this month. We planned to spend Christmas with Dad and Mom this year, but with the uncertainty surrounding the house I thought we might have to change our plans. Mom kept assuring me that I didn't need to worry. Because of you she was right; thank you from the bottom of my heart. My kids get to spend Christmas at Grandpa and Grandma's house! Your sacrifice and kindness will not go unappreciated or unnoticed. It was an answer to a heartfelt prayer.

Love, Michelle

December 3rd

It was a fantastic day. We completed our project at my brothers. Today I am thankful for having some work. It has been a great blessing. I am thankful for being able to drive clear out their in a car on freeways that will get us there fast. I am grateful for responsible children, who care about school. Who complete their assignments, and get good grades. I am so appreciative that 3 of my daughters are almost graduated. And others are on their way. They are a great blessing to all of us. I am grateful for parents who taught me right, and help me along the way. I don't know what I would do without both sets. They are amazing people. I am grateful that there are people who love and treat my daughters well, that don't live where we live. My daughter in Pittsburg is a prime example of this. One particular person just seems to know her needs, and seems to always be there when she is needed. She is an amazing person and has been through a lot in the last year and a half herself. Thank-you. And Thank-you to all the great people who make our lives easier. You are truly our miracles.

December 2nd

We have had a miracle happen today indeed. I have an amazing daughter. Through the times of economic depression, she has come up with a great idea. She goes to Savers, finds things and cuts them down and makes new things for her children out of them. K has a sewing project that is due. She needed some black knit. We went to the fabric store. It was $8.99 a yard. She needs a yard. Right now that is a lot of money. Then suddenly she thinks what would L do. We ran across the street and found a brand new Men's T-shirt for $1.99. Just enough to do what she needed. Amazing what a little inspiration can do. Thank-you L for being such an amazing daughter and teaching our family so much.

We went as a family to temple square last night. It was so fun. It was so beautiful to see the Temple. What a majestic building. It took the pioneers 40 years to build. What a miracle? Especially that we can have it now, and it is still so beautiful. You know that it is a building that was built with the inspiration of the Lord. It was fun to share in the beautiful lights that surround all the beautiful buildings. It was fantastic to hear the Mormon Tabernacle Choir sing, what a wonderful spirit to bring to the Holidays. I wish everyone could share in the spirit that is there. It was fun to have part of the family there. As they were running ahead, I couldn't believe that these were my children, that have grown so much. It was hard to believe. Another miracle.

December 1st

Fasting for 3 days is along time, because of that fast today the Lord truly blessed us and miracles were poured out on the Craven Family. We went out to my brothers to do tile again today. When we got out there my brother wasn't there. So I couldn't get him to take care of our mortgage payment. So my husband and I went to work. At about 2:00 P.M. we hadn't seen my brother. I said to my husband we need to call him. He wanted to make the payment directly to the bank because someone wanted to help anonymously. So at about 2:30 I decided to call him. I gave my husband the phone so he could talk to my brother about how to get on the website. Well my brother got on but it asked some questions to prove it was his account. Frank couldn't remember the answer. It asked what his first dogs name was. He answered it. The answer was wrong so he guessed another dog, the answer was wrong again. So my husband decided to get on a computer and try to help my brother out, because you only have 3 chances before they shut you down. The next question they asked he knew, because it was, What is your first daughters name? But even after they answered the question, the bank wouldn't let the payment be made. The website said he would have to call the bank. By this time it is after 3 which means the house has gone into foreclosure. So my husband tried to call the bank. They couldn't talk to him, so he hung up. Finally a little while later he called again. He and I traded off listening to the phone, for someone to finally come on, while we worked. Finally about 45 minutes later someone came to the phone, so I quickly handed it to my husband. Finally my husband was able to 3 way a call with my brother and the payment was made. They asked my husband several questions about if he really wanted to keep the home. If it was our only home. Then they said, so when will you have a job. He said the 1st of January. They said we will work with you don't worry about it. What an unbelievable burden was lifted off of our shoulders. Miracles happen! The other interesting thing that happened was that the cellphone died right after all of this stuff. I was amazing, because it could have died in the middle of the conversation. Our prayers have certainly been answered. Thank-you everyone for your Faith and Prayers. And I am so grateful for a day of total miracles. Happy Day we are still in our home.

The other thing that I wanted to mention is that about 8 months ago our mortgage was bought out by another mortgage company. It has been bought about 3 different times by different mortgage companies, so we are getting pretty sick of it. But the Lord knew we were going to be in this situation because this mortgage company was so willing to work with us. Our other one was so mean and we have talked to them alot to work certain things out and they have been a big pain, so once again we were truly blessed.

Novermber 30th

It has been a great day. We have been out at my brothers house working on putting tile in his kitchen. They didn't have enough granite to put up for the back splash, so he went and bought a sort of tile. I think it is sand stone. Anyway it is 2 inches by 2 inches and the little squares are held by nylon mesh to form a foot. It sounds pretty easy to put it up. But because it is tiny squares they try to move together so we needed a lot of spacers. Plus we had to cut a lot of little pieces 3 or 4 times to make everything fit. Very tedious work. But it is work and we loved it. My brother informed me that he and someone else who wants to remain anonymous wanted to pay 1 of our mortgage payments so it didn't go into foreclosure. I feel bad that anyone has to do that for us. But I count it as a great blessing. Frank and I got busy and worked until a little after 9 at night, so the mortgage payment was kind of forgotten.

Another amazing miracle happened today. My daughter put 50 dollars into my account. The question is does she need it more than I do I can't answer that. But she is amazing to do that. And it was another miracle.

My husband has been fasting for 3 days. So he ended his fast tonight at 5 PM. He worked all day long with no energy at all. I was plenty worried about him. Because doing tile isn't an easy job. I told him fasting 24 hours is efficient enough. He said, "No it isn't I have committed to the Lord to do this." I said, "Why?" "It isn't smart." He said, "Do you remember the story of Ester in the Bible. Ahasuerus, king of Persia had divorced his queen. Ester adopted daughter of Mortecai the Jew was chosen to be her successor. Haman chief man of the Kings court hated Mordecai. Haman obtained a decree to have all the Jews killed so he came to Ester and asked her to plead with the king to spare the lives of the Jews. It was against everything for her to do this. She could be killed for approaching the king without being asked to come. If she went before the King she would have to reveal her own nationality and get the decree to be reversed. But she told her Uncle that if all of the Jews would fast with her for 3 days, she would approach the king, and with the Lord's help their lives would be spared. And because of their faith and fasting they were all spared. Frank says I need to do this because right now my family is in serious trouble. So I can do the same for my family that Ester did for her people. Besides I have so many blessing that I need to thank the Lord, I just need to do this." He is an amazing husband and Father.

November 29th

What a great blessing in my life? All my children are home safe. The Thanksgiving weekend is over. E and Pl are back home safe. P is back home safe after going to meet is girlfriends family in California. I am so blessed that they are all home safe. P arrived last night at 11:30 P.M. He had an enjoyable time, it was rewarding for him.

Today is Sunday. We were blessed to hear from a couple of missionaries today. One going out and one coming home. I am sure both families are extremely happy. Such special young men. We talked about "Putting on the Whole Armour of God in Sunday School." Now days we certainly need that in our life. We talked about Elder Hollands talk in Relief Society. Such a blessing to be able to read it and learn of its truthfulness. This talk was given in the October Conference. It was absolutely inspiring. The talk was called "Safety for the Soul".

My one great miracle of the day is that my husband received a father's blessing from his father. I am so grateful for the priesthood in my life. What a great blessing. I have been blessed by this wonderful gift all of my life. I have always known that everything would be all right if I asked for a blessing for one of my children from their father. I have received many priesthood blessings in my life as well. I am so grateful for the restored gospel and the blessing of it in my life everyday.

November 28th

Today I am thankful for a good husband. He is everything to me and a miracle in my life. It seems as though he is constantly being knocked down, only to get back up and keep going. I am afraid sometimes I would just want to give up. He is fasting again. The last time he did that it was 2 days, this time he thinks he needs 3. I feel so bad I feel like I need to follow suit, but he refuses to let me and says he feels the need to do it. He is desperately trying to get the Lord's help. He continues to pray and read his scriptures. He is not the same man I married. He is so much more, he is so much better than I am. At times he just amazes me, because he continues to rely on the Lord. I pray with all my heart he will soon get the answers that he is so desperately searching for. We right now need all the help we can get. My husband has become so strong in the last year. I admire him and his determination. I know things will get better for him. I know if we were not in this situation, we would not be the people we are. I am grateful that the miracles that have happen this week have. I know that we are truly blessed.

November 27th

It has been a great day of decorating for Christmas. I and the girls got the house cleaned this morning, and then decorated. I actually organized my Christmas stuff so well last year that it was easy to set up this year. We don't have everything done, but we do have a lot. I was so grateful today for my girls and their willingness to help. I just started to reflect on a few things. One is that this will be the last year that I will share in the Thanksgiving holiday with my teenage children in high school. It is the end of an era, that part of my life. All my children have graduated from high school except my twins. My last 2 children will graduate this year. So no more school breaks to share together. No more High School, Junior High, or Elementary School. My life is certainly changing. I am so grateful for the times that we laughed together, that we have cried together, that we've shared unbelievable experiences. The times that we have shared spiritual experiences. And the many times that my children have cried, because they are so overwhelmed with what they have received for Christmas. Last year my twins cried because they received refurbished Sansa's. They are so grateful for any little thing that they get. I have some incredible children. But most of all today I am so grateful for the miracle of my twins. They bring so much happiness into my life and their father's.

November 26th

It is Thanksgiving! I have so much to be thankful for. We haven't had much money in our life but we have been blessed with much richer blessings. I only had 3 of my 9 children for Thanksgiving dinner today, but we very much enjoyed sitting around talking. I thought of all the great blessings that I have today, they are many. But most of all I appreciate my family their spouses and my grandchildren. K and T went to seminary on Tuesday, they came home with lists of what they were Thankful for. They mentioned so many things that I hadn't even thought of. It makes me so appreciative of them. Their lists were so long it was amazing. I was grateful to see their long lists. I know what good children they are because they appreciate so much.

I am especially thankful today for good food, for loving children, for a loving husband. To be in a nice warm house, with a warm bed to sleep in. With warm water to wash dishes in, bath in, and wash clothes in. I am grateful for the computer, the internet, the beautiful movies that are on the Hallmark channel this time of year. I am grateful for fresh water, for a stove to cook on, for a refrigerator to keep things cold, a nice home, I am thankful for brothers and sisters. I am appreciative of great parents who are concerned for me an my family. I am grateful for a loving Heavenly Father and his son Jesus Christ. I am grateful for a latter day prophet who inspires me with his words each month. I am just so grateful for this day and the wonderful day that it has been.

I had the opportunity of having one of my sister in laws come to my home today and tell me about her son. I love all my nieces and nephews. I hate the fact that some of them are struggling and I can't help. I go to the temple each week and put the struggling children on the prayer roll. I sometimes wonder what good I am doing. I wonder if I am helping in any way. Suddenly this sister in law tells me her son is doing some changing, not hugh steps, but little ones. He graduating from High School and I am sure, he hopes to go to college. That is an amazing thing. I was so touched. I could only thank my Father-in-Heaven. I guess our simple little prayers are heard even though we sometimes think they are not. I am so grateful for that experience.

November 25th

We received $100.00 from my mother and dad for repairing their drywall on their ceiling. It is nice to have some money. We appreciate them for it, even though they really didn't have to do it. My parents are continually handing me money. Calling me over to cut hair, or perm hair, or something so that they can pay me. They are wonderful. Another miracle in my life, being a part of a great family.

Another perfect miracle for me today. I got all my pies done. 4 pumpkin, 1 strawberry, 4 apple, and 2 coconut cream. I also completed my stuffing, my dear husband peeled the potato's and he started our jello. The rest we will finish tomorrow. I am so glad to have so much done. The rest tomorrow will be easy compared to what we had today. Tomorrow I will finish the jello, add the coconut to the pie, make the gravy, do the rolls. I will also do a green salad and a vegetable. My husband will take care of the turkey. Right now he has it soaking in his special mixture, until tomorrow, a day of thanksgiving and more miracles to come our way.

My sister brought me over a ham for Christmas. She is from Idaho, so it was good to see her. Home for the holidays. Just another tender mercy for us.

November 24th

Today started off with my husband and I getting ready for the temple. We were called to my parents to do some drywall work. So we didn't get out of here until later than we planned. We needed to pick up the girls from school at 11:50, my husband was concerned that we wouldn't make it. Because one of the temples in our area is closed so that makes a big crowd for this temple. But I kept reassuring him we would be alright. We were because we were called up front. So we were the first ones in and the first ones out. We made it to pick up the girls at the perfect time. That was a miracle.

I also called my brother about the job. He said he was more than willing to let us call on it and see if he wanted it done now. If he lets us, this could be a total answer to a prayer. He also told me about another one that he is working on right now, my husband can do the drywall there as soon as it is ready. Miracles do happen and hopefully we will find out more on that one tomorrow when we can contact the people. Then of course we can get out of this horrible situation. I know that things will get better. It is a good feeling to have miracles in our lives.

Another miracle happened today. I found $60.00 in my room. I have no idea where it came from. I don't remember having any money. This one is a mystery. A great miracle.

November 23rd

My suspicions were confirmed today. My wonderful children and their spouses fasted and prayed for us yesterday. Not only did my children but my sweet little granddaughter. She is only 8 years old. It is pretty special to a grandmother to know how much other people care. That was special to hear G. I can't thank-you all enough. I know it wasn't easy for any of you. 24 hours is a long time for women that are nursing as well. Thank-you all so much. I love you all and appreciate your concern.

We had family night tonight and talked about tramping God under our feet and the many ways that we can do that. It was a great lesson, one we all needed to reflect on. Because we can only become better people by loving God first. If we love him first we will naturally love everyone else even more, including our spouse's. I appreciate the words of everyone.

After participating in family home evening I came downstairs and started to type on my blog. I have been talking to my brother. Sometimes he is such an inspiration to me. Because one thing I can say about this brother is that he will never speak bad of anyone. A trait that I want to develop. I proceed to tell him a story that our home teachers told us. He is telling us about 2 men that sold him some Bosch appliances. As the story goes it ends out being 2 of my brothers. One is the brother that I am talking to. We have a good laugh. Because he talks about one of the brothers missing his tumb. That once again is the brother I am talking too. Well our home teacher complained about the amount of the check he wrote out (he is only kidding). Then my brother T says, he will soon be writing him out a much bigger check. I say, what are you talking about. He says, well he wants his basement finished. That is right up my husbands alley, so I ask him a few more questions. This could be the miracle we need so desperately. I will have to call B tomorrow.

But our most excitting miracle was that we caught up some of our bills today. I shouldn't say caught up but paid as much as we could. We found out they had our electicity scheduled to shut off. Miracles continue to be found in our family.

November 22nd

Today was Sunday again. A super great day. My son and his wife spoke in church today. It was wonderful. They both did a fantastic job. The spirit was strong, and we were all edified by their talks. They talked about gratitude. My son shared a couple of stories, where he learned that the Lord loves each of us and cares about us. He told about the truck getting stuck on the mountain, and the accident he and his dad had traveling home from Texas. Next we went to Sunday School. My husband gave the lesson. The lesson was on the revelations that continue everyday within the church. I was amazed at how much we recieve from each General Conference. How much we recieve that we don't even think about, how much we recieve from day to day. It was a wonderful lesson. Then we had a combined meeting to discuss the churchs website and our stakes website, even the individual wards web site. We had a great day in church. Of course choir was next. I guess I was greatly blessed today because my daughter invited us to supper. A great supper it was. Delicious meal. It is nice to be invited to eat once in a while. And it is nice to have daughters that cook so well. Amiracle in my life to not cook.

Mom and Dad C invited us over tonight. They are concerned about us and expressed that concern. We all cried at some of the things that were said. They asked if they could call the whole C family and have them fast and pray for us. I told them that I suspected that all of my children did that for us today, so if she wanted to we would feel greatly honored and appreciate their blessing in our behalf. She also thanked me for the wonderful note of Thanks, she said, "Things like that make life worth living, it was such a special note and appreciated so much". She was crying through her words, and made us cry as well. I was so grateful that I sat down last week and wrote those special notes. It made me realize how much I need to be grateful. I certainly don't express it enough. It was a very spiritual up lifting night. Many tears were shed. I also know more and more with all my heart, that I am a part of a wonderful family. Not only my immediate family, but my family that extends forever. The Lord loves me as an individual and I am so loved by so many people. Miracles happen every day and I am a part of those miracles.

November 21st

Today we got a call from one of my brothers that is redoing his kitchen. He asked Frank to come help with some things he needed done. My husband told him he would be there in an hour. We drove out to his place. Frank installed a dishwasher. Put a new kitchen sink in, plumbed it all, he also plumbed the garbage disposal. Put the water and electrical to the dishwasher. Then he put the electrical from the junction box to a new stove top, and wired it all, and got it going. It was fun to watch him. He is so talented, and such a perfectionist in what he does. My brother paid us and we were blessed in being able to help him. Plus we recieved some money for some bills that were desperately waiting to be paid.

November 20th

My oldest daughter called me tonight and asked me if I wanted to go to Costco and go food shopping with her. I really didn't, but she asked me and I thought it would be good mother, daughter time. Suddenly her and her husband showed up. I thought, "Wow, what is going on". Well when I arrived in the car they explained. We are taking you shopping Mom. We can't do everything you need at this time, but we can do somethings. They went to Costco filled the shopping cart full of food that was desperately needed. It would have been hard for my husband to watch, so I am glad he wasn't there. Then they took me to another store and bought me more groceries. And guess what I now have pumpkin. So many miracles in one day. I can't even contain myself I am so humbled. They spent so much money, over 500 dollars. Miracles do happen. My daughter and son-in-law can't possibly know how much this mean't to all of us, but especially me.

November 19th

Today is another day of a little tender mercy from the Lord. We needed some milk on Monday for the family so I gave Phillip $5.00 to get some milk. He of course spent it all. When I gave him the money I was a little apprehensive because I needed the whole $35.00 for my Thanksgiving Dinner, but I knew we needed the milk. Well today I put on a pair of pants that I hadn't worn in a while, reached into the pocket and I found a $10.00 bill. I am so excited, now I can shop for Thanksgiving. A miracle indeed.

After going to the temple today, which was wonderful. We had a special experience today and felt the special spirit that is there. Then we went to pick up our girls at school and went to the store to do our Thanksgiving shopping. I spent exactly $25.00 and got everything I needed except pumpkin. I was able to get my turkey for $8.00. I even had enough at the end to pay my tithing on the money given to me. Another miracle. Two in one day.

When we arrived home I felt like I needed to get on facebook and tell every member of my family to pray for us. We have no money at all and we need to get ourselves out of this mess. I have 16 brothers and sisters and I know that can mean a lot of prayers, on our behalf. I also have 9 children who continue to pray for us. Prayers can mean miracles.

November 18th

Today has been some what interesting. My husband and his partners took the 4 hour trip to attend the meeting they had scheduled. The guy who was at the meeting was a jerk, he wanted to do things for them in their business instead of vesa versa. So no money once again. It was a depressing meeting for all involved. But I look at it totally different. They needed to present to this guy, the reason being he just wanted them to send him their business plan. If that had of happened I would hate to think of what might have happened to our business. So it was a great blessing to us.

While my husband was gone I took the opportunity to write some belated Thank-you cards. I am so grateful for that experience. I am not a fancy writer. My children can put beautiful words into everything they say, but I was not blessed with that gift. So it was a tough thing for me to do. But I accomplished it and I am so grateful that I did.

November 17th

We have been trying to commit my son to go to California with his girlfriend. He doesn't have any money because he doesn't have a job. He doesn't want someone else to pay his way, for that reason he doesn't want to go. He bought a red Bosch a few years ago. He has been trying to sale it since he got home from his mission at the end of August. My husband has been telling him that if he will commit to go, he will sale his Bosch. Well he commited to go, and miracle of miracle's he sold his Bosch. He is so excited to have money he can hardly handle it.

We are enjoying my daughter and her family. Her children are wonderful. She offered to go buy us all pizza. So fun. I didn't have to cook. Just a little tender mercy in my life. We also told her and her husband about our meeting tomorrow in there part of the state. Our son in law told us a few things about the man and him dealing with him. Now I can't help but be a little concerned about the meeting. But it is set in concrete, and I am grateful for that.

My wonderful daughter and her family left later than we thought today which was wonderful because we enjoy them, and wished they could have stayed longer. But a few more hours was wonderful. We continue to count our blessings.

November 16th

My daughter just called they will be coming to see us today. Her husband has business up north. I am so excited, they live 4 hours away and it is always a blessing to see them. They have 4 beautiful children. And like all of grand children they are the apple of our eye. I count them to be a great blessing in my life. Another miracle of the day.

Frank has been on the phone to the guy to invest in our company every hour. He finally reached him at 12:00 they scheduled to meet on Wednesday at 3:00. That was amazing. I guess my daughter was right. We are so excited. We can't wait to tell her of our meeting.

November 15th

This has been a great day. Just because it is Sunday and we have the great opportunity to go to church and feel of the spirit there. It was a great Sunday. Sacrament meeting was a High Councilmen and his son who just returned from a mission awhile ago. They did a super job. One story that I want to remember is to listen to the still small voice that is with you that cautions you to do the right thing. The story was told of a young lady that spent a lot of time a long distance from her home with some friends. It was usually on weekends and she usually spent the night. But on a particular night she decided to drive home. As she got on the freeway. The still small voice whispered, "Don't take 215 stay on I-80" As she approached the junction to separate the 2 lanes she was again warned, but she did not heed the warning. As she approached the freeway there were 2 people standing in the middle of the 2 street junction waving their arms. She had no choice but to stop, or she would kill one of them. As she did she was concerned. Both of her doors were locked so she just sat their. The girl and guy each approached her front windows and started to bang on them. The guy was at the passenger's side beating on the window. All of a sudden the window was smash and splattered all over. The guy had a gun and started shooting. Luckily the girl was warned again and put her foot on the gas peddle and got out of there. After a few minute's she looked down and blood was running down her arm. When she got far enough away she pulled over and called her Dad. He called 911 and they got an ambulance there. She had been shot 4 times. Once in the wrist, once in the knee cap, the hip and the shoulder. They called the police. The people were found and arrested. The girl is doing great now. But has gone through a lot. Physical therapy, a therapist and other things. This particular person that spoke to us was a police officer, and so he knew the story. But I learned a lot from this. When we pray, we need to listen. We also need to listen to that still small voice that will protect us. It was a good lesson for all to hear. We enjoyed the rest of the meetings and other speakers. Later we went to choir practice. Had a great supper with a lot of our children around. You kind of forget your problems when you are around those you love. It was a wonderful day.

November 14th again

My daughter just called, we are trying to find money to get our new business started. She knew of someone where she lived that we were thinking of meeting with. He just wanted us to send him our business plan. We knew that was a mistake. So we had decided not to do it. She told us it was probably a better idea to reconsider. So we have! Frank will call on Monday and schedule an appointment to go down and meet with him next week.

November 14th

My twins are feeling kind of bad because they never have any money for some of the things they need in school. My brother who lives with us walks up the stairs on Saturday morning and throws each girl a $5.00 bill. Of course they love my brother and know how things are for him, so they keep throwing the money back. But he persists and they end out keeping it. A little while later he throws me $35.00 dollars. I don't want to keep it so I keep saying "No", he persists and I finally take it. It is such a blessing because this will buy my turkey for $8.00 at the local grocery story that is offering a turkey for $8.00 if you buy $25.00 worth of groceries. Amazing!

November 13th

Frank has been concerned. He lost his drivers license a few weeks ago and hasn't been able to find it. He also lost one of his really nice extension cords. My husband is an amazing man. He has been trying to do the things that we feel are important to us. Reading scriptures, saying prayers, attending the temple. Doing things that our Father-in-Heaven wants us to do. My husband uses our garage as his private place to accomplish 2 of these things without interruption. As he went out in the garage this morning he was reading his scriptures when he say one of his business portfolio's. He reached in a little pocket where he keeps his business cards, started to go through them when suddenly he spotted his drivers license. Then he went out to get the mail, and noticed in the bed of the truck was his extension cord buried in some leaves. Another set of miracles today.

November 12th

Today I chose to play the electric piano at a care center for a Relief Society meeting that was scheduled for 11:00 today. I am a little crazy about playing the piano because I get really nervous and then I make a lot of mistakes. The electic piano that they have at the care center is rather difficult to make sound good. Especially if you don't know which adjustments to make to the electric piano. So I was rather frustrated at myself for commiting to doing it. But I had done it for a reason, I knew that I needed to serve. So I got ready to go. But as I entered the building Nancy was playing the piano. I was so relieved. Cathy asked me to lead the music because she was asked to say the opening prayer and was really nervous about leading. She had never done it before. So because Nancy took over for me. I took over for Cathy. It was a wonderful meeting. I had a great experience, it was truly a miracle for me.

My Miracles

Things have not been going well in our life. You could say not well at all. As a matter of fact the bank is ready to foreclose on our home. I hate to admit that, we are pretty private people and that is a hard thing to admit. But because of this dilemma in our lives I have started to make an effort each day to count my blessings. I started on November 12th. It is pretty hard to keep it all written down in a notebook. So I decided to blog about it, because I am sure others are going through the same problems, only we are all a little to private to admit it. So I am going to start blogging each day about my little miracles.

My Girls Art

Drama, drama, drama, if you would ask my son that is all we get around here. Twins sisters that are a lot alike cause a lot of drama. They both had several art projects due. They have to have a theme to every art project. One of them was gladly involved in her art when the other one lost it. My art looks terrible. I am ripping it up and throwing it away. The other twin says, " I told you to use charcoal, rather than paint, you just won't listen". It was a little crazy around here. My biggest problem with twins that look alike, is that they are alike. They both draw extremely well but always in competition with each other. So if they see the others art work, and they think it is better than theirs, they are in the angry mode. So T says to K, I am giving up. She did she went to bed. Then K came to me and complained that T had given up and she just can't do that. I said, "Tomorrow will be a better day, right now she is a little angry. The next day T comes home from school and announces that K has come up with a great theme for her. She is so excited about art and can't wait to get to it. Amazing they always seem to work it out. Both of their art projects were amazing.

Little Cutie

We had a great time last night. My oldest son and his wife moved into our basement apartment. They are just moving in so they are still back and forth between two apartments. They had to make one more stop at their old apartment for some necessity's. So my son asked us to watch there darling little daughter. She is so cute and has such fine blonde hair, so it sticks straight up. I am sure my daughter in law has tried a lot of different ways to make it stay down but it just won't. I think it makes her look so cute. I had the same frustration with one of my own children, so seeing her brings back a lot of great memories. She is a sweetheart and such a good little girl. You can tell that she is kind of leery towards us sometimes. I think she is getting to know her parents, so she knows when they aren't around. But in spite of her leeriness she just keeps smiling and talking. She is such a joy to us. Having such great grandchildren can do nothing but bring smiles to our faces. We love each one of them.

Amazing Husband

I had 4 little children and they were all about a year apart and some days I felt as though I were being consumed with responsibility and my life seemed rather hectic. My husband had a business meeting he needed to attend and he said that wives were invited, so we decided to go to my husbands parents house for the weekend so that my mother-in-law could take care of my children while we ran to the party for a few hours. My in-laws were 2 hours from where we lived. So we needed to leave quickly, as soon as my husband was home from work. We left and arrived early, my husband was a little crazy and acted a little impatient. But we dropped our children off. As we were leaving my husband didn't end out going quite where I thought he would. He headed to the airport and announced the surprise. We were headed to Colorado to have a mini-honey moon and would be back the next evening. He had packed for me. I was a little worried about my poor mother-in-law because she had to deal with a nursing baby, but was so grateful to have a break. We flew to Colorado and staying in a very nice hotel. We didn't rent a car so we rode a lot of buses, which were kind of scary but I was with my husband and felt safe and happy, and we had a lot of fun together. We got in rather late, dropped off our car and headed out. We went to the Cassabaneta restaurant, it was so entertaining and wonderful. I was spell bound. Then we headed back to the hotel and swam in the big in door pool at the hotel. I have never had so much fun. The next day we got up and headed for the zoo. The zoo was amazing and had a lot of animals I had never seen before. Then we headed back to airport for home. It was the first time in my life I have ever flown anyway. It was an interesting experience. But a super fun time with the one I love. I will never forget it. Thank-you to a caring husband.

Summer

I can't believe I am blogging again. We have had a crazy summer and most of it was due to travel, and trying to be in so many different places. I wish I could say it was all for pleasure. But I would be telling stories. We had family reunions which were great. I come from a family of 16 brothers and sisters. So in reality there are 19 in my family. We went back to where my parents were born and raised. We got a huge tractor and put two very large trailers on the back of it. Then we all sat on bales of hay and traveled around while they told us of some special experiences. It was so fun. Almost everyone was there and that makes all my brothers and sisters and their spouses, plus all the grandchildren on these 2 trailers. Alot of people, if you add them up. So we listened as my parents told about there life. It was so enjoyable that I wish we could have traveled more and heard more. I have some amazing parents who have a great posterity. Next we went to the aquatic center and had some fun. Swimming, exercising, rock climbing, racket ball you name it, we did it. It was so fun swimming with all the cute grandchildren. I had so much fun and I got to know them alot better. I will never forget this experience. It was one I will cherish.

Son Home After Two Years

It is rather fun to go to the airport and meet your son that you haven't seen for 2 years. He was a wonderful missionary in the Russian Moscow West Mission. He had some amazing experiences. Now that he is home you can see that he appreciates this great country we live in. I think the thing he probably appreciates most is that there is clear water running out of the faust. He can actually have a shower, brush his teeth, wash his hair, wash his clothes, wash his hands and face, hold his hands under the water and marvel at the beautiful clear stuff coming out of the faust. And most of all that the water is warm all the time. In Russia sometimes "they" decide that people have had warm water to much and they shut down the warm water so that you have only cold water for a month. Sometimes going to a foreign country can make us all appreciate the good old U.S.A. It makes you proud to be an American. Let us keep this freedom and not let the government take that away. I'm proud of my son and the service he did. The people over there only wish they had what we have.

Babies

We have had the opportunity of being blessed with 3 wonderful little babies this year as Grandparents. They were all girls. Each is very dear to us and we are proud of their parents and the wonderful people that they are. Right now I want to concentrate on the one that was born this month. I had the opportunity of going to stay with this new grand child and her sisters and brother for a whole week. It was fun and exciting for me and reminded me of when I had my own children. Each and every day brought back a flood of memories. Each one of my daughters children are special in there own little way. It seems as though there is always one trying to make life a little easier for everyone else and mostly with their little personalities, they can do that. It is just fun to watch because you know that they are being children, and sometimes we just need to let them be little. Her baby is beautiful and already has such a cute personality, even after 1 week. She can make your day brighten up even if you are having a rough day, all you have to do is hold her for a minute. Her little skin is so soft that you just want to kiss her all day long. Her dark little hair and eyebrows remain you that she is precious in her own looks. She is loved by us all and we are grateful for her and her safe arrival.

Family

When my children were all small, we lived in Orlando. My children enjoyed it there and have many fond memories of living there. I remember a particular time when we were invited to a birthday party. The birthday party was for a member of my husbands brothers family. Unfortunately it was on Sunday. Sunday is the Lord's day and we like to keep it holy, so we don't shop on Sunday. Our Van was out of gas, so I told my husband that we better not go. He said, you don't need to worry about this we will make it there and back. It is important to be there for our family. They are important to us and we need to keep a good relationship with family. I got all of our children ready and we jumped into the Van. Now you have to understand that this family lived 45 minutes from where we lived. So we as a family said a prayer before we left, that we would make it to our destination and back home and that we would be safe. We drove the distance and had a great time with family. We started back. Just as we got to the turn off into our neighborhood we ran out of gas. We all climbed out of the Van and walked the couple of blocks home. My husband got up in the morning and walked to our little service station which was almost by our Van and got gas for the Van. I have often thought of this experience and realized what a great example to his children my husband is. I will ever be grateful for him and this wonderful experience. Our prayers were answered and a miracle happened. The Lord truly loves his children, and wants us to keep good relationships with our families. They are important.

Tradgedy

My heart goes out to a special friend of my daughters today. Shandra and her special little daughters Jennifer and Brooklyn. They lost their husband and father today in the line of duty. As we cry for them and pray for them I hope they know how much we appreciate them. There father went out on a Domestic Dispute as a police officer and was shot. These wonderful men protect us and our rights everyday and we don't even take the time to Thank them, instead we get angry at them when they pull us over and give us a ticket. I will look at police officers in a little different light with such a tragedy happening to someone that is so close to my daughter. I had the opportunity to meet Sandra and her daughters while I was staying with my daughter for a few days. She is a special lady and has darling children. She helps my daughter in so many ways, because I can't be there she is. I hope that she knows how much we appreciate and love her especially for her sacrifice in our behalf. My heart has always gone out to police officers wives. I will pray for the 3 women that lost their husbands today and especially you Shandra. Thank-you so much.

Care Center Experience

We had the opportunity to go to a Care Center yesterday and present a Sunday Program. We love to do it because we enjoy and learn so much from such incredible people, who have so much to offer. We as the C family did the program. I had asked all my children who were in our ward to participate. Unfortunately some could not make it because they had other obligations. So I asked a daughter not from our ward to come and help out. She gave a beautiful talk on testimonies. She related a special experience that she had on her mission. It brought many to tears. The next person was to share a special musical number, so I had asked my daughter that is just finishing her degree in music to sing. She picked the hymn "Where Can I Turn For Piece". I played the piano. She sang the first verse beautifully. As she got into the second verse I couldn't hear her sing after the second line. Suddenly I realized that she was crying. (I could not see her my back was to her at the piano)I proceeded to play. I played the second verse through and started into the third verse. At the beginning of the third verse she started but once again she was to emotional. The words of the song were to special for her. Suddenly my twins came from the audience and both wrapped their arms around each side of her and started to sing with her. I couldn't see any of this happen, but I felt the love and emotion of all that were around. After the meeting everyone stopped us to tell us how special the program was. But of all the things that happened in the program the help of two loving sisters to their oldest sister told more than anything that was said.

Basketball

I never thought my family could have so much fun. We have been supporting our ward teams. DL's team is doing fantastic and in region. We go to every game and yell for our team. A mother of one of the young men on this team, gathered us all together and told us that we were going to have to have a meeting where she would tell us what was appropriate behavior and what was not at these games. She is a sweet lady and we love her, she makes our life exciting. She is so sarcastic that she brings us joy constantly. Then there is K and T's games. They are in region as well. We get a little out of control at these games too. We have a hugh cheering crowd and love the games together. We are loud and enjoy the fun every week. We are going to hate it when the sesson ends. We develop such incredible relationships and let ourselves go, because life is really to short to not share in the fun.

Independent

I have a daughter who has always been very independent. She can fix any problem and for the most part doesn't rely on family to help her. We find out days later some of the things she does and most of the time I feel like she doesn't need us. But every once in awhile she will break down and cry and release some of her frustrations. I love to share in those special moments. One time when she was small she had a problem with her foot. She never told me about it and claimed that it didn't hurt. She came home from school one day and I noticed she was limping a little. I told her to take off her shoe and let me see what was going on. She did and I about died. She had a half of a toothpick stuck in her foot and there was a red line going part way up her leg. Her foot was definitely infected. I pushed on it and the tooth pick shot out with a bunch of infection. That is how I knew it was a toothpick. I said, "Young Lady what were you thinking, you should have told me." She of course didn't know anything was that wrong. Well we soaked it in Epsom salts for a couple of days at different times, and she was better in no time. This child has a high pain tolerance. For a mother that is a tough thing. We love her and wish she would share more.

Childrens Love

I have a son that cried when he knew we were having twin girls. He already had 5 sisters and one brother and figured that more girls just couldn't be. As much as this son didn't want twin sisters, the sister that is closest in age to him he always loved. When he was little she could do know wrong in his eyes. If any of his other sisters were mean to her he would tell them to quit being so mean. He was constantly concerned about her. He would hug her when things went wrong. He would get her anything she needed and he constantly played with her. Her favorite thing to eat was banana's and he would share with her if there was only one left. They were inseparable until the day he started school and then he became involved in other things. I think it was quit hard on Emzazoe as he called her. A few years later she started school and suddenly her older brother was there for her again. It is fun to watch my childrens respect and concern for each other. I will be forever grateful for their love for one another.

Birthdays

Our birthdays come and go no matter what age we are. Some can be special and some not so good, but all in all we find ourselves a year older. This birthday is one I will remember, not because it was exceptional, or because it was one where all gathered for this special occasion and I received a lot of gifts. The great thing about this birthday is that I received some special cards, and some loving notes. It was fun to find that Disney even celebrated the day with me. (Thanks to one of my daughters and the miracle of the Internet) Then my oldest and middle child sent me a special note of love. Another daughter took me to a movie and afterwards we went out for a bite to eat. Another daughter came, driving half of a day with her husband, and my grandchildren to be here to wish me a happy birthday. Two of my daughters and grand children made up a little play and danced for me. I know that not all these things are material things, and yet they mean so much. It is the little things that make our lives worth living, the unforgetable moments. And when I see my children and grandchildren dancing together, including my little grandson and enjoying the day to its fullest. I count my blessings, and am so grateful that life can be so precious.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

A post sent to me by my wonderful daughter. Unfortunately Disney took it off. But I want to Thank her so much. She literally made me day, and I love her for it.

I knew you were celebrating your birthday today, but I had no idea Dad would go this far. Dad how did you get Disney to do this?

Love you so much Mom. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Our Children

I remember when we went to a park when I had 3 little girls, with the oldest one three. So my second one would have been two. My second child had not fear. I would turn around and she would be climbing the ladder to the largest slide in the park. I would panic, thinking how did she get up there. The next thing I knew she would be coming down. Frontwards, backwards, or on her tummy. I would run around the slide just in time to catch her. One time when this was happening I didn't make it around in time. She went down the slide fast and on to the ground. I couldn't believe my precious child could do that without me even seeing it happen. I'd run to her rescue in time to scoop her up off of the ground expecting to hear her cry. She would hug me, smile and say Mommy let me do that again. Now she has children of her own and I am sure those children bring her as much joy as she did me. Just Love Them!

Our Best Helpers

As our children get bigger it is harder to make them help us. My daughter called the other day and told me that her little boy is such a sweet little boy. He loves to help her. He loves to unstack the dishwasher. (Wouldn't that be a change.) He knows where everything goes and when he wants to put something a way that he can't reach, he yells up, up. He isn't even 2 yet. She said after he helped her, she praised him. "You are my best little helper." Then she announced that they needed to head for the car and go see grandma. He said nin up, nin up, which means clean up, clean up. Then he picked up all his toys. She headed to her room to get what she needed to leave and he followed her. Picked up the dirty clothes and put them in the basket. I hope she remembers these precious moments when he isn't so willing to help. I think the one thing she tried to tell me was that positive reinforcement works. Try it you will like it.

Can We Be So Lucky

I marvel at how much little kids imaginations can be so real. I was talking to my granddaughter on the phone today. She was telling me all about her fairy princess. They were jumping on the bed with her. They had strawberries and were throwing them. We hid under the table together to get away from the vacuum. She went on and on about these fairies about Tinkerbell and Tinkerbell in Peter Pan. She was laughing so hard at times you couldn't hear what she was saying. Then she went silent for about 5 minutes. I kept asking where she was, then she said, "Grandma I am going to call you all the time." I said, "you are." She said, "Yes because I love you very much". I couldn't help but be a little shocked, because it came out of no where. Its at moments like this that a Grandmother feels like her day is actually really worth being who she is, and being a part of her grand children's lives.

Copy Cats

I remember when we lived up north and I had three little girls. My oldest was only 2 and she didn't like dogs at all. They scared her to death. She had bad nightmares about them. We would reassure her all the time that she was OK and it was just a dream. There was a dog that lived next door so my husband would often yell out the door for the dog to be quiet. One day the dog barked incessantly so my husband once again opened the patio door and yelled "Shut Up You Dirty Beggar". Our two year old opened the door and yelled "Shut-Up You Dirty Beggar" in her little 2 year old voice. I was horrified. I didn't think someone so small could have possible immate that one. It goes to show you how much they listen. Shame on us.

Where Has Time Gone

You know that someday you will have children who grow and become mothers and fathers themselves. I am happy that that has happened to me because I enjoy my grandchildren, but sometimes I look around and wonder where did the time go. Things change before you are ready for them too. I remember when my first daughter got married and she was a little bit frustrated because she felt like the family didn't miss her. Trust me that was the farthest thing from the truth, we missed her more than we could express, but we didn't want her to feel like we were infringing on her and her new husbands territory, so we stayed out of her way. Trust me we tried to be there when we were needed and we would liked to have been there more, but certain things didn't permit that. Now time continues to go by and my daughter finds herself with a daughter that is almost 8 before she turns around she will be married and on her own. If I could express one thing to all of my children that would be love them. They are so precious and so fun to be with. Take the opportunity to love to watch them grow. Count everyday a true blessing. Because trust me it is.

My Son

I had the privilege of having 2 sons. I wish I could have had more but it wasn't in the works. One of my sons is in Russia right now. My sister happen to take some pictures at my 2nd daughters wedding which happened about 9 years ago. It is fun to look back and see how much my children have changed over the years. But I have to laugh when I see my second son in these pictures because he hasn't changed a bit. He just looks taller. As a matter of fact in the pictures he just looks like a miniature of who he is now. What a great sight to see him so little and yet the same when he is big. It is the same in his everyday life. He has always been the strong silent type even when he was little. You can count on him to listen alot but never pass any judgement or any information to another. An amazing quality. One I wish we could learn from.

Happy Days

I have heard lately that I concentrate a little to much on my grandchildren and not my children. It is just that being a grandmother is so fun. A lot of things I see in my grand children are the same things that my children use to do. I just can't remember that far back. But one of the highlights of my life in December was attending my oldest daughters wedding. I knew when she got married I would be pretty emotional, and that is because she was 32 before that great day came about. She got a fantastic young man who truly loves her and that is all a mother can ask for. She was my first and thus my training daughter. She trained me to be a mother. I wasn't perfect but I did the best I could. So I am just extremely grateful that through all of my children's patience I can rejoice in being a better grandmother than I was a mother.

Princess Castle

My granddaughter is using her tent for her Castle. She says that she needs to get her dress-ups so we can go in the castle. But of course first she needs to hand them up. It is fun to see all the clothes she tries to hang up. She is getting good at it. Won't her mom be proud if she keeps it up when she is a teenager. I know that I am always on my teenagers backs to get their stuff picked up. I am sorry I have to leave this blog because now we are going to get dressed up, of course first we have to find our jewelry so that we can go to the ball and dance with the prince. We are going to dance now, all in the imagination and the phone. Sometimes grand kids can be our highlight of the day.

Granddaughter

My granddaughter is on the phone with me again. She is building a tent. She says that it keeps falling down. So I told her to get kitchen chairs to help support it. So she did and is so exciting and says that that works. She asked to speak to her grandfather so I tell her that he is busy cracking walnuts that came off the tree. She says that is good because your tummy likes them. They are so good for the tummy. I think she is right because I know that nuts are good for you. Such a fun little girl.

Snow Snow Snow

We are happy for the snow it makes life interesting. When you drive you slide everywhere. (We have a rear wheel drive car) If you need to go anywhere you find it very slippery and easy to fall. You can't see sometimes because it is coming down so fast. If you want to go up a hill you had better watch out because you may not make it. But there is a lot of fun in snow as well, my children love snowball fights as long as there aren't extremely accurate people throwing the snowballs. They love to build snowmen. A few days ago they decided to build a snowman that represented a family member that is out of the country. It was pretty funny. They tried to duplicate everything about this person. The brown hair, blue eyes, nice mouth even his clothes, but when it came to the nose that was a bit different they used a large carrot. For some reason a small one wasn't available. Lets just say I think this person would laugh a lot if they could only see their replica.