Harper-Rollins Bunch

we are still around- GIRLS NIGHT

2009-05-28T15:21:00.000-07:00

Miss having the GIRLS over. Having a girls night. Call me if you can make it. Or email me to my name at hotmail.com

Living and loving life. Taking it one day at a time.
Hope everyone is doing well.
We are doing the Gratuation thing...(DJ- Saturday May 30)

We are waiting on a potintial mission letter.

We are working hard. Finishing out the last week of school.
Finishing out the last couple weeks of full time daycare.
We are busy busy and all is good.

Pauls hand is getting better.

Kids are doing great.
Having plenty to complain about, but since it will not get me anywhere to complain, I will just not.
So looking at the many many things that I have to be thankful for.
Love to all. Keep in touch and see you on facebook.
Alona

busy busy

2009-04-21T19:49:00.000-07:00

Not much bloggin time these days. More into the take a min facebook posting. We are still here and all is good. Just real busy.
Paul and I both had little surguries this month and I am getting a promotion at work. We take the good and the bad and we keep on trucking. Been taking a lot of pictures lately. Just too many to sort and post here. Some are on FB. Got some photo jobs to add to my schedule. That is exciting to me. Something I truly love to do and it seems to make others so happy when I do photo shoots for them. Its awesome.
Hope all is good for all of my blogger friends and family.

Do we have to wait for Mothers Day?

2009-03-11T20:57:00.000-07:00

I am Getting ready to turn off the lights in the front room. Getting everything ready to go to bed. Then I hear one of the puppies crying. I look over into the kitchen. The puppies are in the kitchen where they have their little box. It is closed off where Mommy Molly can get in and out but the door is high so the puppies can not roll out. They are a week old now. They still do not have their eyes open yet. They are so healthy and sweet. Sometimes they climb over each other. If they loose their balance, they will roll over off of the others and lay on their backs. I just dont want them falling onto the floor where they may get stepped on as we are passing.
Well, so when I look over at them, the one that is crying is out on the floor. Molly has taken it out of the box and put her on the floor. So I watch to see what Molly is planning on doing with her. Right beside the box is a soft fuzzy doggie bed. She climbs into the bed and pushed the pillow around. It is called nesting. She was making a nest for her baby in the bed. When she seen me, she would try (unsuccessfully) to pick up the baby. Then would go back to the bed. Acting nervous like she needs to move this baby. She is not concerned with the other babies who are still in the box. She comes to me, looking worried. I am talking to her, asking what she is doing. She seems to want to answer me. So she goes back to the baby. Molly is whinning as she tried to pick up the baby again and just can not get her in her mouth. She she looks back at the bed then looks back at me.
I then go to Molly. Talking to her and letting her know I will help her. I pick up the baby. Molly then goes back into the box. SO, I open the box up to do a puppy count. Making sure she had not taken any others out that I did not see. When I did this Molly laid down beside me to feed her babies and watched close as I handled them. When I took the one she had been moving and placed it close to her so it could nurse, Molly laid her head on my knee and relaxed.
Without her being able to talk to me, I am assuming that she was trying to take this puppy which seems to be the runt to a different place to nurse her alone. AS I obsurved, this puppy is not agressive and the other puppies would come in and push her out of the way. This causing her to be the runt. I helped her keep the other puppies out of the way so she got a tummy full.
I was watching in wonder. Molly loves her babies. It is really interesting to see how she cares for them. I feel as a mother myself that I totally know what she is thinking and wanting for her babies. It was a very special moment that made me think of mothers in general.
I thought alot about my mom. I love my mom so much. All the trials that she went though. How her strong will and determination kept our family together and happy and healthy. She was indeed my best example. To know that even if things do not always go right, you can never give up. Take care of your family and the rewards and blessings will come.
Then I think of her mom, my Granny who had her 93rd birthday on the 12th.
Happy Birthday Granny!!
I also think of Paul's mom. She is so sweet. She is a great example to me and to Paul. I wish she were closer so we could spend more time with her.
I know many wonderful mothers. Even some of my sister-in-laws helped mother me in my teen years. I am such a lucky person to have those teachers and examples and people who love me.
To all the mom's out there...You are loved, even if sometimes you do not see it or feel it. We are thankful for you. Never give up, we would not be who we are today and because we can not make it without you. Thanks for all that you do.

Proud Grama Lona

2009-03-04T18:32:00.001-08:00

Well, I cant have more children of my own and thankfully my children are not yet having children. (Not ready for that!!!)
So we love our puppies.
As you may have seen on Paul's blog, we have more puppies. That was our plan and now it is Molly's turn. She is a Peak-a-t'zu. She had 7 puppies!!! She is being such a good mommy and we are delighted!! Beenie is the daddy (again...wild boy). He is a Peak-a-poo. So, our pups will be called Peak-a-t'zudles. lol
They are two days old and I just love them so much. We will blog their growth.
If you know of anyone who seriously would want a puppy and would love them completely, just send them my way. I am already getting calls for them so I guess there is a demand for sweet baby pups. If they are anything like their mom, they will be mild mannered, loving, lap puppies. Or like their dad (and mom) Very smart, easy to train and loves attention.

Just Need to Post

2009-02-25T20:15:00.000-08:00

I just want to take a quick moment to say hello to my family and friends who check in here. Thank you for entertaining me with your blog and for having an interest in mine. I have some really great friends and I have an awesome family. It is great having a way to share my life with them. I guess I have fallen behind in the sharing part.

It seems that posting on my blog is very low on my things to do list these days. I am on my way to bed and had posted pics on Pauls blog for him so I thought I would stop into mine. Thanks to my sweet friends who check in here and there to see what is going on in my world. Life lately has been so busy that I have choosen not to spend too much time here at the computer.
Its weird. Three years ago, I spent hours every day on my computer and thought that was the most important place to be. Three years before that I was working on a computer all day and then would be on here hours each night. Now, I come on to check emails and to handle business. I may be on the computer 30-45 each day or every-other day. My life has changed so much in the past year. Even in the past 6 months, things are so different for me. I was lucky to find my wonderful husband on an LDS singles site on the computer. Now, there is really not much I need to look for here.
Things are great. Nothing worth complaining about. Just very very different.
I love my life and my family and am thankful that I have better things to spend my life on. I am also thankful that when I do check in I have great friends to chat with and who have an interest in me.
So....Keep blogging, I love reading them. I will blog when I can. Hugs to all.

South Carolina Kinda sNOw?

2009-01-21T19:52:00.001-08:00

HOLIDAYS and the OTHER CAROLINA SNOW

2009-01-06T11:18:00.000-08:00

We get past New Years Day and before we move to Valentine's day we all seem to just try our best to move out of Christmas. We move past the craziness that is the Holidays. We are able to go to the store and find good parking places again. We go to the store and find the shelves full of those things we did not seem to be able to find last month. We look forward to Christmas all year and then by January we are so glad that it is over and gone.

Well, for me, this year is different. This was the best Christmas and holiday season that we have had in a very long time and I wish I can hang on to it and make it last forever. That is not possible and I get that but I really wish it could be. So, I thought maybe if I shared my holidays here I could at least look it up to remember from time to time when the not so great days come my way.

So, it started for us we had a really nice Christmas Eve at home. Christmas Morning was fun and full of nice surprises for the children. IT was a good time.

It got even better on the 27th when I got to see my brother and his family for the first time in 5 years (I visited him 5 yrs ago. It was 7 yrs since he was here for his last visit) . My brother Blaze aka Johnny who now lives in Washington State came for a visit. He came over and I was so happy to see him, his wife Adie'80' and their kids Patric, Briana, Madison (my twin) and Dillon. We hung out and had a good time. Next, that night, we went to my brother Bronson's house for a wedding reception for my nephew Josh. He was married in August but waited till now when everyone would be here to have his SC reception. His wife is from Washington so they were married there and had that reception in August. It was great meeting her.

As a note. Also this month on the 19th I was able to see my other nephew Morgan get sealed to his new wife Jennifer in the Columbia Temple. I almost did not make it in the door. I am so glad I was able to be there. Oh and Thanks President Woodrow!!

So for Christmas, we had new family members and visiting family. It was awesome. Not sure that there will be a time when all of my huge family will be in one place at one time. So to get this many of us together is an awesome thing! Maybe someday we can rent out a building or something. With 11 siblings, who 9 of which are married and my mom has 38 grandchildren, and of those there are 3 married grandchildren, that would be a very large gathering.

Anyway, so because of this visitors, we waited to have our family Christmas get together. On the 28th we got together and just had sooooo much fun! There was tons of food, gifts and more laughter then you could imagine. Just when we thought things were settling down, we moved things outside where we decided to play in what we called

"SOUTH CAROLINA SNOW"

Ok so Bronson works for a paper factory. They balled it up and made a "snow(paper)man", they piled it and jumped into it. They threw it at each other. They jumed through it and they covered each other with it. These kids (and adults) were very creative. I guess for those of who do not get a white Christmas have to be creative to fit in with those that do. I think that although we sweated more and were more comfy in shorts, the paper snow was so much fun! This is a white Christmas we will not soon forget!***I laughed so hard my sides are still hurting. We or really THEY also played some more silly, crazy games and I took lots of pictures.

Then we look off to the beach for a couple of days. While we watched them drag sand right in front of our hotel and Alyssa and I ended up being really sick while we were there, we still had a great time.

We did our best to not be in any one's faces but we were so glad that we could be there and spend time with Bronson's and Johnny's family for the holidays.

Thanks to Uncle John, all the guys were sporting their tourist beach looks. Bron was there too but had to go fly his kite on the beach. Could not wait for the picture. lol

This was our best Christmas yet!!

Sorry it has taken me a while but life is busy so there you go.

I Need a Silent Night

2008-12-23T10:14:00.000-08:00

If you have heard the song by Amy Grant then you know exactly what I am talking about.
Christmas is a season of giving and doing for others. We all look forward to this time of year all year long. Its a great place to be (in this time of year).

I was in Walmart last night and just as Paul and I were about to loose it (the hustle was beating out the bussel and we had had enough), we hear music. It was not the normal background music over the sound system. It was a live music group. There were about 4 or 5 women and two men. The women were singing Christmas music. I am not sure what to think about it at first. It is not something we see everyday. Walmart does not have music concerts too often that I am aware off. Anyway, we were there and waiting in line with no place to go. So we listened. It was VERY VERY loud. But, it was nice. The music was not preachy, it was different. The ladies were very talented and we enjoyed the couple of songs that we heard while we waited. To be honest, it kind of took the edge off.
So, then we have Amy Grants song.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTpLesI7KPo
Check it out on youtube.

It totally says what I am feeling in these last days before Santa arrives. I love looking forward to Christmas and I love what it is all about. I also love the time I will get in a day or two to relax and enjoy all that we are working to create.

I hope you all find your Silent Night and have a wonderful and Merry Christmas!!!

Look for us at the STOMP!!

2008-12-03T11:09:00.000-08:00

The first Saturday in December each year the town of Elgin (where I live) holds what is called "The Catfish Stomp". I guess Elgin must be known for CATFISH??? And, maybe some people are like me and when they see a fish outta water, they want to stomp on it. LOL not really sure what that is all about. OK whatever. It could be worse.....well maybe.

So anyway, this weekend is it. We will have a huge parade to kick it off and then there will be food and product vendors. A few small rides or fun things for kids, Santa is Always there and sometimes he is even there in more then one spot in the same parade. I think that is one of his magic tricks. Guess what, they will even have Catfish Stew......ewww. Im not big on fish anything so.....eww.

But this is our town and this is how we roll. lol

Anyway, it is usually a fun time for the family. When I first moved to this town 8 years ago, things were a lot different. It was more of a carnival that lasted for 3 days. There were all kinds of fair rides, games and things to do. Since that time, our town has grown in population as well as in merchants. We now have a big Food Lion grocery store where the empty lot usta be that held all of the rides and activities. So, now with no where to put the rides, we do not have them. So, anyway, it is still a fun time for the family for that one day. Saturday, there is a lot to see, buy, and eat. I hope everyone comes out for the parade and all that follows.

BTW, Keely (our family) will have a booth out there this year selling our bread items for Keely's fund raiser. WE have about $6000.00 more to raise so she can go on her trip. So, come out and buy something to help Keely. It will be fresh and yummy and for a good cause!!!

HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!!!!!!!!

BIRTHDAY

2008-11-30T19:32:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Although birthdays now are not what they use to be for me, for some reason I have still been looking forward to today. It is Monday and I am thinking positive thoughts. It will be a good day, a good week and GREAT BIRTHDAY.

WE have already started off with Paul taking me to see Twilight. Keely is mad that she did not get to go but it was a date night and Keely will be ok. That is what I wanted for my birthday. I am a very simple person.

So, I look forward to my children behaving for me today and getting chores done without me fussing about it.

(I know wishful thinking but it is my day, lol) ♥

I guess we will see what happens from here.

Hope everyone has a great "Alona's Birthday Monday" !!

Comments & Myspace layouts

Harper-Rollins Bunch

2008-11-20T20:58:00.001-08:00

MySpace Graphics & Free Myspace Layouts

BREAD FOR SALE!!!

2008-11-15T10:39:00.000-08:00

With Thanksgiving almost here, I have decided to fulfill the request of so many of you.

I will be baking for YOU this year!

I have several different types of bread items. We have: ROLLS(several types), BREAD LOAVES, STRAWBERRY or Raspberry DESSERT BRAIDS, CINNAMON TWIST, CINNAMON ROLLS, BREAD BOWLS, CINNAMON RAISIN LOAF and really anything else you may need for your holiday meal.

I will continue to take orders after Thanksgiving as well.

If any of you have tasted my bread items, or have attended one of my bread classes, you know what a treat these items are. I can make them ready to serve. I can also make them to be brown and serve, so you can heat them and serve them hot from your oven on to your table.

You can purchase as single items or larger orders as little as 6 in an order or as many as 200. In other words, I am able to fill any order and help you have a wonderful Thanksgiving meal and holiday. Some of these items make wonderful gifts if you are attending someones home and do not want to go empty handed. Take them a dozen Rolls or a Dessert Braid, to show your appreciation. I can assure you, they will love it and thank you.

The proceeds of these bread sales will go to help my daughter Keely go on a trip of a life time. Keely has been selected to be an USA Student Ambassador. She has the opportunity to participate in the exchange student program. She will be traveling during the summer to Switzerland, Belgium, Italy, as well as a few other places. She will attend school there and learn other cultures.

In order to take this trip she has to raise a large amount of money.

Keely is a good student. She works hard to keep her grades up. Keely is a Junior at Lugoff- Elgin High School. This will be her last year that she can take part in this People to People Ambassador Program. She is really looking forward to this trip. She has worked very hard to maintain her grades as well as to raise the money to make this trip. She is doing other jobs such as babysitting and house cleaning to help out anyone who needs these services. (If you need weekend or evening child care just give her a call). I will be making and selling these bread items in order to help her raise money for this trip.

Email me for more information as well as for menus and price lists.

If you are interested, please email me at alonaharper@hotmail.com or call me 803-408-3520 soon so I can schedule your order. I can ship orders as well but you must get these orders into me as soon as you can so I can get them to you on time.

Thanks for your help and support!

Cool pic from an investigation

2008-11-06T20:28:00.000-08:00

If you like the pics and are interested. Ask about them and I can give more info.
We are so excited that we are going on an investigation on Sat night and will have new pics to come. Or so we hope.

See the orb.....now you see it.....Now you don't

This pic was taken first. Notice all of the spots.

Then one second later the spots are gone.

If this were dust, rain or anything else, they would have been in the next pic as well. Dust, rain, etc would not disappear in seconds or even minutes like these spots. This is why we think they were spirit orbs.

What do you think??

You can see a face in this orb.

There was a fog that we could not explain. Did not see it with our eyes. Then it disappeared.

Look beside my head. Also around the gate. So then I walked back where I had been, I was talking to....what ever would listen. We wanted to see if "it" would follow. ....Look by my leg....Look all around me and the gate. See I can make friends.

SKIRT PURSE

2008-11-02T17:13:00.000-08:00

For any of you who like the products from 'THIRTY-ONE GIFTS' the purse company that my sister does parties for....They are having an awesome deal that if you have a party between Nov 15-23 you can get the SKIRT PURSE for $10

Yes that is right. This is a $40 purse I think and you can get it for only $10!!!

Let me know if you need to set a date with my sister.

2008-10-28T18:42:00.000-07:00

FORGET THE POTHOLES IN THE ROAD AND CELEBRATE THE JOURNEY INSTEAD!

Who would'a thunk it???

2008-10-26T20:07:00.000-07:00

Ok, I did it and I am actually enjoying it! lol

When I was a teenager, my sister worked at Domino's pizza. She was a driver, she answered phones and took orders, she made the pizzas (taking pride in the way she could throw the dough to make the crust). She did it all there. She worked there forever. I remember going with her to work some because she worked on the USC campus and there were some really good looking guys working there as well. So, of course I did not mind hanging out. What was that tall dark haired guy's name anyway?? hum...don't remember, but he was a hottie.

So, that was her thing. She did it for ever like I said and she was really good at it.

So......I never imagined working at Domino's myself but guess what. At the end of September, I took a job there as a night time driver. I am "the Domino's guy oh I mean girl" That is usually what they say when I get to the door. lol

Well, I decided that I would work for a while to help with gas money and Christmas money. Not looking for hotties like I was back then. lol

While my daycare numbers went down for the summer, I never really filled the spots and now with the holidays coming I usually will not pick up in numbers until Jan. ish. So that's not a terrible thing. Its always nice to have a break here and there.

So I am learning the roads in Elgin and some of Lugoff. I am enjoying the hustle and the instant gratification of tips for my work. I am impressed with the earning potential. I never would have guessed this would be for me but I am having a great time. It works great with my daycare schedule. I play with kids in the mornings and hang out with adults (well older kids really) in the evenings. I still get to see Paul some and we have gas money when we need it.

I guess sometimes if you step out of your comfort zone it may surprise you of your potential.

This is also a great cure for boredom.

So there you go MK, bet you did not expect that!!!

GET THE DOOR, ITS DOMINO's and maybe even Alona!!

If anyone is looking for work, let me know. They still need drivers.

HALLOWEEN PARTY!!

2008-10-23T09:13:00.000-07:00

I hope to see EVERYONE at my home on Saturday Oct 25th (that is this Sat)

7 pm until. We are having our Halloween party. EVERYONE is INVITED.

We will be wearing costumes.

If you have one, wear it. If you dont have one or are not into costumes, come anyway.

COSTUMES ARE NOT REQUIRED

WE will be serving Chili and hot dogs.

Bring something to go along with that.

FOOD IS NOT REQUIRED

FOOD FRIENDS AND FUN for Halloween!

It should be a ton of fun. We have some people who are investigating the church who were invited. I hope everyone will come and help us welcome them.

PLEASE COME!

please also rsvp

Happy Anniversary!

2008-10-20T03:33:00.000-07:00

To the one person who is always there for me with a hug. The one who always listens and never judges me for anything I am or have been. For the one who shows me everyday that he is happy to be in my life. The one who would miss sleeping for 36 hrs because he would rather be with me while I have to testify in court. The one who brings me flowers when I feel sick. He comes in from working all night and puts a meal on for me and the kids in the crock pot so I do not have to cook dinner later. He helps me so much with my daycare. I think sometimes the kids love him more then they do me. I am sure it has something to do with him always having a treat for them.
Happy Anniversary Paul. I love you so much and am thankful for you and who you are for me.

I met this guy 3 years ago on the Internet of all places. We live in a different time now. I was single for a long time and had tried every avenue while seeking a compatible mate. Just when I was giving up again, I go into a "Mormon singles chat room" and the conversation when kinda like this...
HIM- Hi
ME- HI
HIM- what is your ASL?
ME- almost 35, female, SC ...what about you?
HIM-38 - m- Utah
ME- what are you looking for?
HIM- Just friends and someone to hang out with, chat with, etc
ME-Yeah me too
HIM- oh you are not looking for marriage like every other fem on here?
ME- maybe one day but not really for now....I'm tired of the games. burnt out on losers and guys are just dumb so....just taking it easy for now.
HIM- I agree with all of that except that there are some of us who are not losers. I do know what you mean though because I have met some crazy girls too.
ME- well good, so now that we are on the same page....I'm bored, you wanna get married??
HIM- Sure lets do it
ME- OK great! The only thing is...you will have to move here. I don't do snow.
HIM- We will have to see about that. And the rest is history. We were just joking and having fun that night but look at us now. We dated via the phone, Internet and a few visits going both ways for a year and then he made the move. I am so glad that he did. I love him with all of my heart. I am thankful for all he does for me and who he is. He helps me so much and is the best friend that I have every had. I married into the best family as well. They all have taken me and my children in and have been awesome to us. Maybe if I keep trying I can get some of them to move out here as well so we can been closer. Until then, I like the occasional visits we get to take to Utah. I am hoping this makes since. It is really too early for me to be thinking.
So anyway..... I love you Paul. I hope we have at least another 100 good years.

The Truth Shall Set You Free...

2008-10-15T19:25:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share something that happened this week.It is not something new that I learned but this was brought to a new light for me.

I participated in a jury trial this week. I was put in a situation where I sat and watched as someone had to tell some very personal things that happened to them. Someone else had to share some more very personal things that happened to them as well as to another member of their family. It was hard to be in that room. It was very uncomfortable. You could watch those who were on the stand and could see how hard it was for them to be there. At the same time, it was very important for them to go through that. It was important for them to subject themselves to that embarrassment and hardship for the hope of justice being served. In the end weather their side won or lost, they new then had to do their part.

So, we sit and watch witness number one.

Witness number two takes the stand. This witness is also the victim. She is testifying of something that happened several years ago. She was at the time, a minor. The thing that stood out most for me is as she got up to take the stand, we seen her father whisper to her, "Just tell the truth, nothing else matters".

You could see how nervous she was. She seemed scared to look at anyone. All the same, she told what happened. She had a since of confidence in her words and she did well.

The defendant takes the stand. He was very defensive. Would not answer questions directly. For example, he was asked, did you visit the witness on one particular day? He said, I could have been at work that day. HUH??? That is not what he was asked. So, he proceeded to give several answers while being questioned that really had nothing to do with what he was being asked. He was asked once, (without giving out too much info) Did you use more then one of something? he said, many people could possibly use more then one of those. OK, no one asked you about what other or many people do. You were asked if YOU did this.

It was just really something to watch someone try to turn words around and manipulate words to create doubt in the minds of the jury. I guess that would be the idea of what he was doing. He at one point said, I have never been around this person and everything she said is a lie. He said everything she wrote on her statement years ago was also fabricated.

So.........who do you believe?

It is the job of a jury to take everything into consideration. Then, it is up to them to get 12 people to all come to the same conclusion. In a situation like this no one knows going in what the outcome will be. Some people are hoping for one result and others are praying for the opposite.

OK, what is my point? Some people lie because they are scare or nervous of what will happen if they tell the truth. Some people lie to protect the feelings of others. Some people are more compulsive with their lies and they do it because they can. What ever the reason for telling a lie, where does it get you? It might give you some time or you may feel as though you are getting by with something. Are you really winning? Are you really getting by? I have seen where telling lies has effected people in such a way that it is even life altering. I have had people tell lies about me and members of my family which caused a lot of hurt feelings and caused me to lose some dear friends. All because of lies. Not sure why those things happened. But I see it as a part of life that some people deal with everyday.

Paul and I teach our children that a lie is a terrible thing. You never truly win when you lie. Karma will get you and if you lie now, you will spend so much more time digging your way out of that lie then you ever would have if you had told the truth to begin with.

It is a fact that when one tells a lie, it weighs on the person in so many ways. I have had secrets before that I was not totally honest about when I should have been. Those things were like steel weights that I wore on my shoulders. Some of those secrets were things that maybe happened to me when I was younger. Some of those things were things that I did that I should not have done in my life. I think at some point everyone has a secret or more then one that they wear on their shoulders and or heart. For some it is no big deal and for others it is something that they struggle with everyday. It has taken long strides for me but I have found a way finally to share some of my past secrets and get those weights off of my shoulders. The relief I have felt is indescribable.

In the court story, after a deliberation of less then an hour there was a verdict GUILTY!

This was such a case that when given the choice, 90% of the jurors choose to come out and watch the sentencing process. Everyone wanted to know what was going to happen to this guy.

Well, what could not come out during that trial but what had to come out during the sentencing was that this guy had a prior record of a similar assault. Needless to say, the jurors were more then satisfied to hear that, knowing that they made the right choice to give a guilty verdict. To watch this unfold and just to watch this victim. Her family made a statement during sentencing that their wish was to make sure he was put somewhere that he can receive the kind of help that he needs so that there is never another victim. He got 8 years. Then she did not want to leave the court room until she watched them place the handcuffs on this man and take him away. You could see the gratification in her eyes.

A terrible chapter in her life finally has closer. She can put that book of this part of her life on a high shelf and hope to never come across it again. It will still be there always but she can now move away from it.

Then you see her walk out embracing her mother and father and tears of joy go down their faces. With the last comment, see,when you just tell the truth, ever thing will work out eventually. It is a lesson we should all remember.

Raffle for Christmas Gifts!!

2008-10-13T18:38:00.000-07:00

PICTURE TO COME!

I have a huge basket loaded with Mary-Kay cosmetics as well as some bags from Thirty-one Gifts. The value of this prize is well over $100 in products. There is a chance that there will be other products added to this basket and that is why I have not added the picture yet. You can purchase or earn a raffle ticket and a chance to win this basket. This will make a great Christmas gift for any of the ladies out there. You can even tell your husbands to buy the tickets and possible take care of more then one gift off of their list. You can win this prize and split up the products to take care of several people on your Christmas list as well.

PURCHASE****Anyone who would like to purchase a raffle ticket for just $5.00, let me know.

EARN***You can also earn a raffle ticket by hosting a party for Mary Kay or for Thirty-one gifts (purses and bags, etc). For each person who hosts a party, you will earn a free raffle ticket. Those who have parties with sales over $200 earn a second ticket.

SO EASY SO FUN AND SO VALUABLE!!!

Some of the items in the baskets are gift certificates so you can have personalized items. There are also cosmetics, such as lipsticks, which you will have the opportunity to choose colors that suit you best. Watch for an upcoming post with more details. I will show the basket and list all of the items that are available in this awesome prize.

Drawing for this prize will be the first week in December.

My Baby reaches double digits

2008-10-08T09:17:00.000-07:00

October 9th, 1998. I go in for a scheduled c-section. Only to find that she was already on her way. I was suppose to deliver before going into labor. I must have just missed the labor pains because when I went in, my water had broke that morning in the shower. I did not know it because of the shower. Kinda one of those things that made since later.

So, with my 1st c-section, the Dr's had to push and pull and make Keely come out. Resulting in me feeling like I had broken ribs and other bruises that may come from getting hit by a truck.

This time, they opened me up and she rolled to the top. Just to say, here I am, I am ready to go.

She had a hard road getting here as my body wanted to be difficult so I am sure she had been looking for the door to get out and get moving in life. I think she is still that way. Always looking for somewhere to go and an opportunity to do something.

Well she is having a birthday. She reaches double digits today. I have mixed emotions as she is my final creation and I want to keep her to myself. On the other hand, she is very independent. She always has been. I remember having problems reading to her as a toddler. She wanted to do it herself. She did not want help. Then knowing that DJ and Keely are so much older, she is always trying to catch up and be like the big kids.

So, my little girl is growing up. She went on the 4th grade Seagul field trip which is an overnighter. That was hard for me but I guess I need to let her grow. She is so smart and so strong willed, I don't think I have a choice. She is not one of those who will let me baby her until she is 20. I think she is 10 going on 20 already.

Slow down Alyssa, you need time to grow and so do I. I will do my best to keep up with you.

I LOVE YOU!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

http://harperrollinsbunch.blogspot.com/

2008-10-02T20:51:00.001-07:00

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Halloween

2008-09-29T11:22:00.000-07:00

What are you going to be for Halloween?

While talking with people about my upcoming Halloween Costume party, we have had a fun time talking about different costumes. Paul, the kids and I went to one of the Halloween stores in the area. We had a good time looking at all of the scary props and fun costumes. Just as a side note, be careful while shopping with children. Most of the adult costumes and not appropriate for children to even see the packaging. Some where just aweful. I really could not believe some of the things there. Some very cute and some very funny. Many very scary ones too.

We had a good time.

I am thinking of going with the twilight theme. I am sure it will be a popular one but it is a fun one.

So.....what is your costume going to be?

THRILLER

2008-09-17T11:17:00.000-07:00

OK with Halloween coming up, this is our first note to let everyone know that we are having a Halloween Party on Oct 25th. This will be for the adults to come in costume and just have some fun. I wanted to give everyone plenty of time to start looking for that costume. More details to come later.

So, I wanted to enter this fund raiser thing and help break a Guinness book record for most people doing same dance at one time. The funds were for my daycare. The dance is the Thriller Dance. Created by Micheal Jackson. Remember the Micheal Jackson that we all actually liked and was entertained by.

In doing this, you have to do exactly the same steps and such so everyone has to learn the same form of this dance. It is pretty easy but there are a lot of steps to it. I purchased a dvd which teaches the steps very slowly and precisely.
I have found that it is very difficult to pull such an event together. It is very time consuming and challenging. I just think I do not have it in me at this time. I have too many things on my plate besides this. So.....this plan has been changed. I now have to raise fund for Keely to go on a trip to England and some other places so I need to focus on this instead.

Since this is the 25th anniversary of the Thriller Dance, and I have always wanted to learn it, I am still learning the dance.
I am going to try to get anyone interested to join me and if i get 25 people who want to take part, we can still be part of the record breaking event. It will just be for fun. No money involved.
It should be a blast! Oh and the dance is an AWESOME WORKOUT!! You do not have to buy it like I did. You can get the instructions for free on the website. http://www.thrilltheworld.com/

Keely and I have been learning it together. Besides having a ton of fun, and laughing a lot, we are feeling the workout. So, come dance with me and we can "THRILL THE WORLD" together!

I must be living right or something....

2008-09-13T18:09:00.000-07:00

I have always believed that when you are living right, good things will come your way. Well the Lord works in mysterious ways. I know you have all heard that before.

I just wanted to share my little good news moment. Paul and I make out all of the time so....that is not it. (LOL just had to say that)

I guess we get the good with the bad. Some of my very dear friends moved to Maryland this week. I am totally upset by this. I have watched these children for like 3 years or so. They are very well behaved children. No offense to anyone else of course. This is also a little girl who has been Alyssa's very good friend since 4k. Our families came together through these two girls. They have since been in the same class several times and Alyssa is really having a hard time with this move.

Anyway, so as they were cleaning out the house and packing up everything Latisha called to ask if I would please take the few items from their refrigerator so she did not have to trash them. There were a couple pantry items as well. Food, yes....we will be happy to. No problem. She came over on Fri to deliver the items. We chatted for a moment as she was telling me how much they had left to clean, paint and do before leaving in a few hours. She explained to me that they were able to sell most everything at the yard sale so that helped a lot. Then she said they are just going to leave the refrigerator that they had just bought because it was hard getting it in the house and they did not need to take it with them.

I said wow, I wish you had told me that over the weekend. I would have bought it from you. I have one but it is old and Paul and I were just talking about trying to get a new one in January. Then I said but that is good that you can leave it and get credit from your landlord for it for the next people to move in.

So, she goes home and in a few minutes I get a call. She says, can you come get this fridge. We are just giving it away and not getting credit for it anyway. We would much rather you have it instead of who ever will move in here. Can you get it. Of course I asked if she was sure. I did not want to mess with her plans or whatever. She said "please take it. We had not even thought to ask anyone if they needed it. If you can get it you can have it. We are moving it out to the porch now."

So, it was at the time of day that Paul had to shower and leave for work. No extra moving time. Nap time for daycare and I did not have a truck to pull my trailer to go get it. It was not looking too good.

At that very moment, I felt impressed to call Mike Chesley. I knew he had a truck. I figured maybe I could get him to bring the truck when he picked up Jared so he and DJ could go get it after work. I called, he said he would do it no problem. WOOOWHOOO I am getting excited. THEN.....Mike calls me right back. Said he is just in Elgin about a mile away. He said if the tailor could fit the hitch on the work truck that he and Derick could come now to move it!!! Even better. They came over. I got the baby to bed. Paul was getting dressed and I left him to listen out for the kids. I led the way (about a mile and a half) to get the fridge!!!

To make it even better, there were 3 men to handle the lifting and one man at the other house to help get it loaded. It was done in no time and then they were off and back to work. I felt like I was prompted to call Mike. I think that if we would have waited someone else may have got the fridge because they were going to have to leave. With everyone knowing they were moving out, and then there is a fridge left on the front porch..., I'm just saying, it could have been a free gift to a stranger passing by instead of me.

I am sooooo thankful to Mike, Derick and Tim for taking time out of their day to help me.

This fridge is awesome. Its only like two years old. It is so much bigger and nicer then mine. Best if all it is from a dear friend and it will be a constant reminder of the friends who were here. I hope that we will be able to keep in touch with them. I miss them already.

Oh and too make it better, DJ and I set the old one out front and Saturday morning a guy stopped by to ask if they could have it for their church. Done. It was out of my yard and helping someone at the same time. This was a good weekend.

SAVE THE DATE

2008-09-05T11:58:00.001-07:00

Eagle Court of Honor

For DJ

Thursday, Sept 11th 2008

7:00pm

Camden ward building

Y'all Come!

Wow wha'da trip!

2008-08-28T16:38:00.000-07:00

So I'm back from Utah. The kids are off and running in school. I got back and my family and my home were still intact. All is well.
Paul got to reunite with his friend Trouble. He is the cat that when Paul calls and leaves a mess. for his parents, Trouble runs to the phone in hopes to find Paul there. So sweet. This cat LOVES Paul.

We got Paul's boat and went fishing at Strawberry Resv. It was so beautiful there. It was cool out as we started very early that morning. Paul was determined to help me have fun and not be grossed out by the whole fishing thing. I have never really been fishing. So, Paul was wonderful. He would bait my hook (no worries we did not use worms anyway) and then he would cast it out for me. What a life. Just sit back, relax and wait. So I did. Then I got a tug here and there. Maybe I scared them when they tugged and I screamed. lol what can I say. Mostly they ate a lot of my bait. Until......I got the bite that would be his last bite. I hooked the hook and pulled him in. Out of the three we caught, this guy was the middle sized one at almost 4 lbs and the other two were 3 and 4 lbs as well so I did just as good as Paul.

This was a time really that we got to spend some great time with Paul's dad. After surviving a very FAST ride through the mountains to get there with white knuckles the whole way, the time on the lake was so nice. We chatted and we relaxed. Its too bad the men forgot their hats as they were both very sun burnt. Then, as for me, I got a little sun on one side of one leg. Just my luck. lol

See the sweet family of duckies. Awwwww.....

Here is the Mount Timpanogos Utah Temple Main that is just up the hill from Paul's parents home. You can see Moroni from their yard. What that must be like to be reminded each time you leave your home. I just think it is awesome.

We were able to see Paul's kids which is a huge deal. They have grown so much since we seen them last. It was such a good visit and we are already looking forward to next time. It was Dakota's birthday so we were lucky that we could give him his gifts in person and did not have to mail them. It seems so impersonal when we mail everything and are not able to see them for special days. So, we chatted, I took a ton of pictures and we even played some Foosball. It was really a fun day. The hard part of course was leaving them there.

Another fun trip was to Temple Square. This place is simply amazing. If you are ever faltering and have an opportunity to go to Utah, this is the place to be. Just the reverence as you walk the grounds is hard to describe. I walked surrounded by people I have never met in my life but I felt so much peace and so much love, just in the surroundings. The next time I go, Paul and I decided we are going to make sure to schedule time to do a session in the SLC Temple. They do the sessions live there and that is something I really want to see. I always get that song in my head every time I visit SLC and is, "I Love to See the Temple".

To see him as the center of the Universe really says more then words can say. To say it is beautiful is just not enough.

My new favorite quote. I just LOVE Spencer W. Kimbell.

Then back to the lake. Paul's brother Scott stays in this really nice complex where we had access to Utah lake. The weather for the entire week was perfect. In the low 90's and upper 80's and like 10-20% humidity. Yes, it was heavenly. I had great hair all week. I only had to use the straightener once for the entire stay!! We boated. Our nieces Hannah and Megan had been waiting all week to finally get to drive Uncle Paul's boat. They were so excited. I was surely more nervous then they were. They just giggled with excitement! What fun we had. Once it was just Paul and I on the boat, I relaxed and let me hair go. I am not sure why I worry so much. I am working on the whole relaxing thing. This helped a lot! Then to help with the relaxing, we went to the natural spring heated pool and hot tub. The waterfall coming down into the water with relaxing hot water. Check out the sign. The steam and water comes out so hot that they have to warn people not to get into it. It will burn you.

I just found this so fascinating. Letting nature work for us.

So again, thanks to Mom and Dad Harper. You took great care of us as you always do. We had such a great visit and a fun time. I love going out to visit all of you and we miss you greatly when we are not with you. Thanks to Cheri and Scott for also entertaining us. We enjoyed playing with the girls and hanging out with you guys. We need to get you guys out this way now. We totally need to work on getting that beach house to give you another excuse to visit all year round. IT was a blast but there is no place like home. AS messing and crazy as my house can be, it was great getting back. I walked in the door....Keely and Alyssa hugged me up top and Hunter and Anna got me below. Its a good thing I was still holding onto the door. Thanks to everyone for helping out and keeping watch for my kids.

Leaving on an Airplane...

2008-08-18T19:03:00.000-07:00

Heading out early in the morning to fly to Utah. Its another day in court. This is one of those baggage deals that I married into. I am not complaining because, I really enjoy traveling. I also know that as long as we keep up the fight, their is a great chance of success. The problem is the timing. It is never when it would work best for us. This is the first week of school for my children and here I am leaving to the other side of the country to help fight for my other children. Of course this is where I will need to be. I am blessed with awesome children who are now totally old enough and responsible enough to handle themselves correctly while I am away. I know that the elders will take care of the younger and they will all three make it to school without a hitch. Dressed modestly and in the correct mind frame to handle whatever comes their way this week. I have been preparing them for this week for a few weeks now and I think they will be fine. Yes I am panicked and a bit nervous but I have to do what I have to do. It does not help that Fay is on the way. My mom's name is Faye and I know how dangerous she can be if challanged so I know the potential of damage a storm named Fay is great! Ok.....its gonna be fine, its gonna be fine.
Besides , we have a backup plan which are my sisters who will be stepping in to sub at my daycare for me while I am away. The babies love them as well and so everyone is in good hands.

OK, this is helping. I am getting it out and relieving the stress for a moment.
So, everyone say a little prayer for us while we are away that my children will do good and that the court case will go in our favor. If it does then we will either get visitation or custody. Either one will be a good thing. What ever happens we will make it work for us. These children, although with their mother, are not in the best hands. There are a lot of issues there and a lot of reason for us to be concerned. We have our hands tied as the court system works in the mothers favor. No matter how many times Paul has won custody before, it is always an uphill battle for a man. Sometimes that is a good thing but not every time and more often then not, it is unfair and unnecessary. So, extra prayers will help and a lot of luck would not be bad either.

We are excited that we will get to see Paul's parents, sister, brother and nieces. That will be a good time. Paul misses his family so much. It is always fun to see them. I will come back with pictures.
I hope everyone has a great week.
Michelle, look out for my kids please.
I will see you all later.
Alona

Blogger World

2008-08-13T17:26:00.000-07:00

I have sure enjoyed having this blog in the past few months and the relationships that have strengthened through the blogs. It is kinda cool to be able to see into the world of my friends. Sometimes I only look with one eye but it is interesting to look just the same.
As you all see, my sweet husband joined the blogger world and will more then likely post more often then I do. He is really more into this thing then I am. I think he just loves to be in the loop. Now that he works so freakin much this is how he catches up with what is going on in the world. Or at least in our world. IT should really be a good one. He is actually really smart.

SO, now my sister MK (Marikarine, or otherwise once known as MariCarrot) has joined the blogger world. Now THAT should be an interesting blog. She has always had things float through her mind and out of her mouth that I have to shake my head at in.....amazement- no not the word....maybe confusion is a better word. What would be more interesting is to see what she chooses to share. So she moved to Las Vegas and so she and I am attempting to form a renewed relationship. She and I have always done better when separated by much distance. So, I am very interested to see how this all pans out for her. I do love her just do not always get her. I know she is reading this so......MK it is all good. I do not mean anything bad and I do love you.
So anyway, good luck to all of the new bloggers. Let me know if I can help you conform to the blogger world in anyway and just have fun with it.

Just need to post something

2008-08-07T12:50:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I think we all get into a rut where, we want to post something but there is nothing going on that stands out and then we feel that we have nothing to say that anyone wants to hear.
I guess I am there lately. There is stuff going on but nothing that is really blog worthy.

I could talk about how DJ and Keely are working this summer. They are working for my brother in his business and they seem to be really getting a lot out of it. Besides the part of them learning how to work and earn their own money, they are learning to work with others. They are learning how to take constructive criticism and they are learning how to push through when they would rather be laying in the pool. They are making friends with people they would not normally hang out with. Keely even had a cute 20 year old return missionary, flirting with her. Thankfully she is a good kid and told me, its OK mom I can just get to know him in the next two years. Then we can go out. LOL.
My kids have some goals they want to achieve and are earning their own money to do this. For that I am proud of them. I wish I was in a situation that I could continue to just give them what they want. Unfortunately I am not in that situation and it is better for them that I am not. If it were up to me I would just give them everything. In doing that, they will never learn independence. They will never learn to work for things that they want. It is harder to achieve meaningful goals and it is much harder to appreciate that which they receive.
When I was growing up, I was one who was very shy and did not ask for much. I really did not want to bother my mom with my needs because I knew she had so many other children to deal with. When I did ask for something my mom felt guilty because it was very rare so she usually gave me whatever I wanted. Therefore, in my later teen years I ran with that and became spoiled. Then as an adult, when i wanted something if my mom did not give it to me, I would try to get it from my husband. Sometimes the guilt thing worked and sometimes it did not.
Then I entered the world of being a single mom(not for related reasons lol). At this time, my mom helped me a lot. Things changed for me and I was totally embarrassed and ashamed that I had to impose on my mom once again and being that I had a new baby and two small children and had just lost my home due to no support from the ex, I no other option then to move in with my mom once again.
I made a goal for myself that I would not depend on my mom forever and would not let being single be an excuse for me relying on her. I worked and saved and did what I had to do. In two years, with the help of an awesome Realtor who was looking out for me, I bought my house totally on my own. It was a fixer upper. I was able to do the minor repairs and such on my own. A few things I was able to get help from a few of my brothers to fix things that I just could not figure out on my own. Other then that, I got a car and a house and I paid my own bills and I did it all on my own. This was the proudest moment of my life. Although my mom asked if she could continue to help me with my kids since Alyssa was the baby and she was very attached, I did receive that help for a while from her.
The point of my story is that I may not have anything fancy or extravagant. What I do have, I worked hard for and earned it on my own. Therefore, I am much more thankful for what I have now, then I ever was for the nicer stuff that others bought for me along the way. This is the message that I want my children to take with them. I want them to work hard and appreciate the things that they have.
What is it that you worked for that you are the most thankful that you have??

PARTY PARTY PARTY

2008-07-28T08:30:00.001-07:00

Thirty-One Gifts Party TONIGHT!!

EVERYONE invited as always. Tell your sisters, tell your friends and be at my house at 7 pm tonight. If you can not make it at 7 come late. Anytime before 10:30 should be fine. See you ALL there.

Then on Thursday is my Pampered Chef party. Michelle Bass is the consultant and I will host. It will be fun. The food will be yummy. Paul will be here too so you are welcome to bring your husband and make it a date night. Either way is good. Hope you can make it at my house at 6:30 ish.

I will have the purses from tonights party still on Thursday if you have to choose just one night you can catch them both that night.

Thanks so much and I look forward to having you here.

Alona

Glenn Beck Experiance

2008-07-20T21:28:00.001-07:00

Youth Conference '08

2008-07-20T21:26:00.001-07:00

My Glenn Beck Experiance

2008-07-20T16:37:00.000-07:00

So, on Thursday I left to NC with the church youth group to chaparone at Youth Conference. We staid at the campus of Western Carolina University. Besides it being in the mountians and everything was either going up or coming down a step hill, it was awesome. We tried it the first time to get where we needed by walking but once we expeianced the distance and the hills, we drove the rest of the time. There was seminars, dances and activites that kept us all busy. So busy infact that by the end of the day, I could barly make it to my room at night. I am sure not as young as I use to be. But I kept up and it was an awesome time. See my slide show below for pics. The best part of the trip was the white water rafting. It was so fun. I had never been so I was nervous but the river was very mild so I survived (incase you did not figure that part out). I ended up wet from head to toe, and my rowing partner in my raft was Addison who sang "Come, Come Ye Saints" as we went along ...You know the part, "And should we die, before our journey's through, Happy Day! All is well!" lol It was really a good time.

So we made it home Saturday afternoon around 4pm, then Dj, Paul and I met over at our friend's The Osteen's house to join Dj's boyscout troop. The boys were invited to participate in folding the flag after the Glenn Beck show.
Glenn Beck was in town with a show at the Township Auitorium. If you do not know who Mr Beck is, you should really check out his website at http://www.glennbeck.com/ .

Honestly, I did not really know who he was. I have heard his name, I have heard my brother talk about him and Paul LOVES the guy (in a very non sexual way, lol). I am not a very political person so, I just did not know him as well as others.

So, we went to the show. HE IS AWESOME!!! I am now totally a fan. The boys were able to go back stage before the show to meet Mr Beck. He talked to them a little, showed them the 40 ft X20 ft flag, they would be folding. Then he told them to stay after the show for autographs.
I have a video of the flag folding but for some reason it will not load to this blog. I will continue to work on it. For now, go to the link below which is the glennbeck.com blog of the tour. Check out the pictures of our boys with Glenn.

http://www.glennbeck.com/content/articles/article/198/12554/

I am SOOOOOO Proud of my son but it was bigger then that. I was overwhelmed of the moment we experienced. This was so huge. I was so proud of Camden Ward, Boy Scout Troop 348 Anyone of you who know any of these boys should be proud as well. They showed manners and respect to that flag. They were totally respectful and acted in a professional manner. These boys would have made any other boy or man proud to be part of the Boy Scouts of America.

The boys in the group who did the flag are DJ Rollins, Matthew Moore, Zach Connell, Jimmy Osteen, Campbell Connell, David Osteen, Will Connell, and Ty Miller. These are some awesome boys. The crew could not believe that the boys had only practiced three times before doing this with the third time being just before we got there. We were told by several people that this was the best flag folding that the crew has yet seen.

The next fun part was that after the show, we all got autographs. Even we the parents were able to go backstage to meet Glenn Beck and shack his hand. He then invited the boys to Zesto's (described as the restaurant with the giant ice cream cone on top lol) for ice cream before he had to get back to the airport. Well, we joined him and although he was not able to stay long, he talked to all the employees there and talked to us for a min. Then he said please order some food and thanks for coming over with us. So in the slide show you seen Paul eating his Glenn Beck Burger!!!

This is a night we will not soon forget. What a blast!

Something I read...

2008-07-10T18:50:00.000-07:00

An unnamed author is reported to have said, "In essentials, let there be unity; in non-essentials, liberty; and in all things charity"(as quoted by B.H.Roberts in Conference Report, October 1912, 30). In other words, in the things that really matter-- our covenants, the commandments, and following the prophet-- we need to be completely united. In the non-essentials, we have our agency to handle things as we see fit. But in all things, regardless of whether we make the same choices or not, we are to treat each other with dignity and respect, both of which are evidences of charity in our hearts and lives.

I have mentioned this book before but I am gradually reading the Sheri Dew book, "If Life were Easy it wouldn't be Hard" . I have picked it up again and found this part profound. I love this book.

I just wonder what we must think about our self that would give us the right to talk about another person. Who are we to say that if we were in their shoes, with the complete history behind it and not the current history we carry, that we would handle any situation differently.
For example, if you are married and things are not going so great in your relationship, would you or would you not try to make things better. So, if your husband has a hobby that he loves, would you try to participate in the hobby if that meant that he would see you are trying to make him happy and do what he loves so you have more time with him. For Paul, it would be golf. He LOVES to play golf. Although he does not have time for it much now, I know that it would make him very happy for me to go hit some balls with him instead of sitting at home complaining because we do not have time together and he wants to leave to do something he enjoys.
Why would someone judge me for that? Why would anyone think I should not find a way to spend more time with my husband. I am only using this as an example and I am referring to others.
I love Paul and am lucky to have such a loving husband who would do anything for me. We do spend all of our available time together and I am lucky for that. Although others have choose to say really mean and hurtful things about Paul and I, our relationship and things that are none of there business, we have an awesome and very loving relationship. If anyone has a problem with that they really have their own problem. Get off my back and go work on your own issues!!!

I am having some stress issues these days and venting a bit but sometimes we just need to get things out.

Whada weekend!!

2008-07-07T09:49:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a good 4th. We had a very busy weekend but it was a lot of fun.

First, I closed my daycare for the 4th and took some time to spend with my family. It being DJ's birthday, I had a few arrends to run. We got some things done and Paul went off to work. Then Valencia called and I ran over and took some pictures for her wedding. I was so excited for her. I will let her show the pics that were taken. I am just going to sneak in this one.

They look so sweet and happy together. CONGRATULATIONS VALENCIA AND JOEY!!!

Then later that night we went over to the Ervin's for their annual 4th of July fireworks display. There were a ton of people there, and with that a ton of fireworks. The guys had a lot of fun lighting the works. We really enjoyed them all. Thanks to everyone to pulled that together and thanks Kristi and Mike for the invitation. We really had a good time.

Saturday was another busy day. We had DJ's party on Sat. instead of Fri because Paul had to work. SO we had some friends and family over for a cookout. Tossed out a few more fireworks. Had a good time. Someone brought the rain with them though so we were dodging ran for a while. Hunter was there to entertain everyone while we waited to finish the fireworks.

The best part of Sat was that my best friend from High school came over. I have not seen her in about 14 years I think. give or take a couple years. I am thinking Keely was a baby then but I am not sure how old Keely was then. So it was great seeing her again. I have missed her. We were inseperable while in school. We rode to and from school together, we worked together and we hung out always. I think she staied at my house more then her own.

It was great seeing her and I look forward to getting to know her all over again.

Sunday was a good day as well. Not so much for Alyssa, she was sick all day and had to miss church. I took DJ and Keely to church. We enjoyed testimony meeting. I was even able to share a good news moment in Relief Society. Not for me but I shared Valencia's good news while she was away on her honeymoon. Everyone was surprised but happy for her.

So now it is Monday, we start another week and I just hope that it's a good one for you and for me. SO....make it a good one.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DJ !!!

2008-07-03T09:55:00.000-07:00

Here we go... 18 pics for his 18th birthday. LOOK OUT WORLD DJ is Legal!!

Not that this means a whole lot right now. He had to register for selective service (draft). He will not be out there buying cigarettes and he will not be getting married anytime soon. He only has one more year in high school. But this is an age that we have all looked forward to as teens. We all wanted to be 18 and legal. I guess so we could have more of a say so on things. When I was 18 I moved out on my own. At 19 I got married and before my 20th birthday I had my DJ. I hope and pray that DJ is smarter then I was then. If I could only hit the redo button. I still cant find that dang button.

Having said that, I must also say...NO REGRETS!. I love my children so much. DJ has always been a blessing to me.

I only wish I would have been smarter about it and would have waited another year or three to get that started.

This is my boy. I love him so much. He came to me during a time in my life that I really needed something of mine. I would not recommend handling things the way I did to anyone else but for me, it worked.

Life was not easy but I loved life when DJ was born and if my husband was ever there for not, I still had my baby boy. He and I have always had a very close bond and relationship. Even now he is very protective of me. He is so loving, helpful and caring. I know one day he is going to make a very very good husband and father. One day WAY LATER IN HIS LIFE. (hint hint)

So here are his senior pictures. He is a senior this year at Lugoff-Elgin High school. He has just completed his Eagle project and is only awaiting his board of review to receive his Eagle advancement. We are all very impressed with the work he did on his project and was in charge of there.

After school next year his plans are to go on a two year mission for our church. Then on his return he wants to go to school and major in wood work and carpentry.

He is a very hard worker and does really good work when it is a hands on physical job. He is very very strong. He has a lot of energy. When he sets his mind to a task it is hard to get him to think of anything else.

I know I am very bias but he is such a good boy and I am so proud of him.

I love you so much DJ! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Happy 4th of July!!

2008-07-03T09:45:00.001-07:00

Comment Graphics and Myspace Layouts at pYzam.com

Happy 4th of July!!

2008-07-03T09:17:00.000-07:00

This is my pre-4th post and there will be another post tomorrow.

Special day tomorrow so check that out.

Anyway, I hope everyone has a good 4th. Paul will be working on Friday so we will do the cookout thing of Saturday. Let me know if you can join us for that too.

I hope you all are safe and have fun and take a moment to appreciate the Independence that we all share. Sometimes when people take what we have to the extreme it makes me wish there was a little less freedom here. All in all, we are very lucky to live in a land that we are free to choose as we wish.

So, remember tonight is Mary Kay party at my house. Everyone should come. You do not need to buy anything, just come check out all of the new product line that Mary Kay has now. There are new products and new colors. There is a mineral line now and much much more. You can even do online parties with virtual make over. That part is really cool. I have played on there myself. I will be selling Mary Kay now so this is a good time to just come see what there is to offer. Maybe you will want to earn hostess gifts of your own later.

PARTY

2008-07-01T09:23:00.000-07:00

MARY KAY PARTY

Thursday July 3rd

6:30pm

Bring A Friend!!

Food, FUN and MAKE UP!!!

Let's cuddle in the bed with a good movie and some really good chocolate.

2008-06-25T13:04:00.000-07:00

Well I am just having a good time changing my blog a bit. Thanks to Darla for telling me about these cool templates. LOVE yours btw.

I love lightning storms. I love to watch storms (from the safety of my home). Not a big fan of driving in them but as long and I am with my family and we are somewhere safe, I am content to just turn off the TV and listen to nature as it throws it's temper-tantrum. lol

This template also fits how I have been feeling lately. I am learning to deal better with my new issue with panic attacks that seems to becoming more and more of an issue. I have had them before but seems I am getting them more often. I am also learning how to deal with them and keep them in check. Its all good.

This background also fits the kind of day I had yesterday. You know sometimes you wake up and just know, you should not even get out of bed. It was a doomed to fail kinda day. I almost rain out of gas as I ran out of my morning errands. I just barley made in the gas station parking lot when I checked and realized I had left my wallet with all of my financial resources at home on the counter. I did have my license by change but nothing else. Good going Alona. I only have one car right now so I could not even call Paul to help me out. I am lucky that I have a sister and mom who are so good at being there for me when I need them.

Next I received some dreaded news about some girls I know. News that I can not share but it was something I was not totally surprised about, it reconfirmed things that I thought but was not sure about and even though I somewhat expected it....it cut like a knife to hear it. Now things are going to get messy and the law will have to be involved and it kills me that these girls who once were my friends could be so wrong to betray any other human in this way. It's just wrong on so many levels.

Then I found a really cool widget of a stick figure family. Its like the stickers that some of you may have seen on car windows that you customize to fit your family. I added it and it would not shrink to fit so it cut off Alyssa. I cant have a family doodle where Alyssa is not included...I mean HELLOOOO.

Please understand that I am not looking for pity, I am just blogging and expressing. I am doing my best to keep this light and positive. I have a great life, great family and great friends. Even for the most happy people we all have poopy days that would be better spent under the covers watching movies and catching up on much needed rest while indulging in really good chocolate.

So lets talk chocolate. What is your best cuddle up with good chocolate type of chocolate???

Happy Monday

2008-06-23T07:36:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone has a great week!

Congratulations Paul

2008-06-17T12:17:00.000-07:00

We can now call him Officer Harper.

Yesterday June 16th Paul graduated at the top of his class and was voted class representative for his Department of Juvenile Justice Training class. Paul was asked to speak at his graduation. He did a great job. He even got a lot of laughs.I told him, it was NOT suppose to be his comedy debut. When I met his instructor and the others in his class, they all seemed to have a great respect for Paul. They all liked him and they all seemed to have fun while in the class. I guess that always helps.

He committed to being certified and prepared to take on the Juvenile Justice department. He was sworn in as Officer Harper and will now work directly with children who are "in the system". Some of these kids were at the wrong place at the wrong time but others have made direct choices to put them where they are. Some of these kids have done things that you would have only see on movies. Many many of them are there because they are in gangs and have done things in the gangs to put them there. There are even kids there who simply would not go to school. Yes that is right, if you skip too much, you will skip your way to DJJ. Not cool.

Paul is very excited about this new career and opportunity. He loves working with the youth and he hopes to make an impact on some of them there. We are all excited for him and it is great to see him in his element.

I know that I will be doing a little more praying for his safety. This is not the safest job in the world. It is what makes him happy so we will go with it but yes I will worry. No, I'm excited. worried but excited. Yeah, that's it.

Thanks for listening while I vent. lol I am sure he will be fine and yes this is how I am convincing myself of that.

CONGRATULATIONS PAUL!!!!!!!!!!!

I LOVE YOU!!

You Rock Daddy'o

2008-06-16T06:00:00.001-07:00

Being that I was so young when my father passed away, I do not have as many memories as the others. I do remember my dad as being a great man. Even from the stories that my brothers and my mom tell me, I know that there is no one else like my dad. Even so many years later, I still miss and love him so much. I know my life would have been so different in so many ways had he not left us. I think of him each Father's day and just think of how lucky everyone else is to have been able to grow up with a father in their lives. Most importantly how lucky we were to have him in the time that we did. I believe that he helped mold my brothers in to great men. I have 7 brothers who all are wonderful brothers, husbands and fathers. Some of them played a huge part in my life. Some of them took on the roles of a father to me in different times of my life when I needed them. My brother Bronson who was the oldest at home while growing up, still today plays a big role in my life and I am so thankful for him and all of my brothers and what they do for me.

I will say that without my dad here, I was so lucky to have a mom who did a great job keeping things and our family together. She is my inspiration. We also had awesome neighbors who were father figures to us. I had great male leaders, teachers, Bishops and coaches who helped create the woman I am today. I am thankful for each of them.

Then, I am so lucky to have a wonderful Father in Utah. Paul's dad. He is such a great man. I have so enjoyed getting to know him in these past few years. I hope that we have many many more years together. I know Paul looks up to his dad so much. He loves his dad with his whole heart and misses him greatly. That is the hardest part for Paul to live so far away from his parents and not be there to help them when they need their grass cut or rooms painted or even just to take them somewhere and to be with them. They have such a close relationship. I know that Paul's sister and brother are there to help and take care of him but Paul and I both wish we were closer so we could be there for him as well. We love him so much. I am so thankful for him and for the man that he created in his son. I know I will benefit for that effort for the rest of my life.

Then there is my Paul. I love this man so much. We have only been together almost 3 years but it seems like I have known him my whole life. I totally understand for the first time what it is to be totally in love and to receive the same kinda love that I give. I was never sure how the whole "step- dad" thing would work. I think I always figured that I would get married and I would just continue to handle my kids and he could deal with his. I know that is not realistic when you are married and living together but I have always been one to just handle whatever and move on not to worry about bothering others with our needs. Well, I am so pleased to see that I have a man in my life who wants to love my children. He wants to be part of their lives as well as mine. He wants to be totally part of everything that we do in the family. He is just what I need in my life and he really is more then I ever expected. I truly love this man. He told me yesterday that this was the best fathers day he has had in years.

He was able to talk with his two boys who live in Utah. (the girls were not home) That is awesome for him because they are not allowed to call him (the ex-wife rules).

Then we went to church and on the way home, I said ..."dangit Paul, I totally forgot to get you a card for fathers day" He said, oh its OK. Don't worry about it. I said, no no....I have some paper and stuff, I will have the kids make you one when we get home. It will be great. Paul said no, they don't need to do that. It is fine really. Please don't worry about it.

I got the kids to play along and told them in the car that when we get home, go make Paul a card and we will bake a cake or something. (hee Hee Hee) So....we got home, changed clothes. Then I said come on Paul, we have to go in the front room and the kids will sing for you. (Cant you see DJ and Keely singing "I'm so glad when daddy gets home????) LOL So he said oh dear, really don't make them sing. So I pulled him into the room and pretended like I was starting off the song for him. When he came out, we had cards and gifts for him. Some purchased and some homemade. He was totally overwhelmed. Even the note from Keely on the card envelope was great. lol I have to share Alyssa's gift with you.

She made it several weeks ago and it has taken all she could do to wait until now to give it to him. When he read it, he broke down. It totally overwhelmed him and me too btw. It was a really great day for him. Im glad my kids love him too....or they are coming around to the idea anyway.

Fun down FUN to go!

2008-06-11T08:09:00.000-07:00

So thanks to everyone who fought the storm to come over last night for my "Thirty-one" purse party. If any of you have not been to one of these parties you should really check them out. They have great bags of all types. They are monogramed for free. They have great materials and patterns that you get to choose from. Best of all is that the prices are AWESOME.

If any of you wanted to come but the weather kept you home, I totally understand. Check out the website and let me know what you want to order. The order will go in on Friday. If you order $35 or more you get a tote at half price. I can show you which totes you can choose from if interested.

www.thirtyonegifts.com/Thirty-one/products.html

They really have nice stuff and great prices.

So, we have a lot of fun and it was great having my friends over for a lot of food, fun, and friendly conversation oh and now my carpet is shimmering and smells GREAT!! LOL Thanks again for coming. Let me know if you have any bag questions.

Question for the day.....Should I sell that stuff??? I have been thinking it over. I love the stuff so much. I just wonder if I should give in to it. Hum......... not sure. Maybe if for nothing else, I can get the starter kit and be happy with that. LOL

Okay so.....Murder Mystery party. Rain or shine,

Saturday night. 7pm

Dress western style and join the fun!!!!

What is coming up???

2008-06-05T10:10:00.000-07:00

So, I am getting back into action. For the summer, we are taking a break from Carolina Girls Club and will start back when school starts back.

We have a fun purse party planned for Tuesday June 10th. If I do not have your email then I will invite you here. It is a new company that does home sales and they have a ton of really nice stuff. If nothing else you should come to check out the stuff and the new company. My sister is doing the party and I am hosting it at my house.

IT IS TUESDAY THE 10th AT 7PM.
EVERYONE IS INVITED!!!!!!!

WE will have fun and can count this as our no obligation girls night out. Please come check it out.

NEXT we are doing what Paul and I seem to be most known for and that is the Murder Mystery Party. I mentioned it before but wanted everyone to know it is still on. The date is SATURDAY JUNE 14th @7pm and EVERYONE is again invited. IT is a wild west theme so you can put some jeans and your cowboy hat on, and join the fun. IF you WANT a main character, let me know so I can tell you who you will be. IF you want to just check things out and help solve the crime, then let me know you are coming and you can just come as you are and join the fun. IT WILL BE FUN!!! I hope you will all come and try it out.

We also have Girls camp and Paul's Graduation coming up this month along with Father's day so we are keeping busy. I just want everyone to come out and have fun at the two events we are hosting. Hope to see you all here!!

Thanks for the flowers

2008-05-30T10:42:00.000-07:00

I receive these 2 doz beautiful roses the other day from "Paul's Crazy family"(as the card read) in Utah. They are so nice and really brought a smile to my face. That was so nice of them and I really really do appreshaite them as well as the love that came with them. I am the luckiest person in the world when it comes to in-laws!!
The reason for the flowers was that, I had what we will call a little episoid last weekend. This changed my plans from spending memorial day weekend with my family in the sun to spending it mostly alone and in the hospital. My family was by my side but on memorial day I ended up being very sick and I slept almost the entire day. I went in on Friday night and came home Tuesday night. That was really not what I meant when I said I wanted a relaxing weekend. I guess I should be more clear on things I wish for.
So, I have had much time to think, much time to put my life in perspective and much time to realize all that I have to be thankful for. I also found out a lot about my health. Some good some not so great but will be ok.
I can say this, I thankful for my friends. I was actually surprised about which of my friends showed up for me when I needed them. I know I have different kinds of friends. I have friends who I would call on for different things and at different times. I am thankful for each of my friends and for all of the different things that they do for me and the different times they are there for me. I am lucky to have so many friends and I hope that I am there for my friends when they need me for whatever I may be good at for them. (If that made any sence at all).

I am thankful for an awesome family. Again I could not ask for a more loving and devoted husband, and my kids were awesome too. It was nice to have friends stop in to check on me and even a few calls. Thanks to Laresa for setting up some meals to come into my home. Although Paul told her we were ok, and with older kids they would have been fine, it was also nice that for a couple of nights when I got home, dinner was one thing that we did not have to think about. Thanks to everyone to doing your part to help me feel better. It really did help.

They say I am addicted...

2008-05-21T09:12:00.000-07:00

So, the word has finally made its way back to me. I was told last night that I am addicted to having murder mystery parties. LOL Hum..... I am seriously wondering if this is how everyone feels.

I have had a few, that is for sure. It is not really this type of party that I would be addicted to. I think it is more that I just LOVE having people over. I love getting friends together. We have our girls nights, and we have to have something for the men to be involved in too. My sweet husband loves cooking for my girls nights but loves even more cooking for the parties that he is invited to. So instead of just having friends over to sit around, talk and eat (not that there is anything wrong with that. We have fun with that too) this gives us something fun to do WHILE we are talking, eating and hanging out with everyone. I have seen the people who are so quite and shy....out talking to everyone, laughing and having a great time.

So, I guess Kristi and Mike would know more then anyone else because they have been to most of my parties. Kristi am I addicted? should I stop?

Some of our parties were much more fun then others. Besides the weather, there are two reasons for that. 1. The more people who come to the parties, the more fun they will be. 2. we have had different types of mysteries and the parties have come from different companies each time. Therefore, some of them are just written better and just better types or parties. Even the weather did not keep anyone from having fun. We all just staied close and by the fire.

I guess anytime you have any kind of party more then once, some will be better then others.

Our main goal is to get friends over, relax, laugh, eat, laugh some more, eat some more and do something fun. As long as we are achieving those things, I think we will continue having the parties. We are trying to invite more people and get more people involved. You know, extending our friendship circle.

What is it that they say......Making new friends but keeping the old.....some are silver and some are gold.

Anyway, that comment last night kinda caught me off guard. Was not sure how to take it. So I thought, " I guess I will BLOG ABOUT IT" lol I would not say I was offended or anything, just surprised. I told this person last night, I guess I will keep having them until no one wants to come anymore. That is when I will know to stop having them.

SO PARTY AT MY HOUSE JUNE 14th. Everyone invited but I HAVE TO KNOW WHO IS COMING so RSVP. It is a Wild West theme so easy to dress up for.

Firemen, Retirement, movies and puppies

2008-05-19T08:01:00.000-07:00

Well for the weekend, someone tried to catch the yard on fire. We had to call the fire dept to come out and put it out. What was scary is that we noticed the smoke as I got out of the shower. We were preparing to leave. If we had left 20 mins earlier, I may not have had a house to come home to. Living by the railroad tracks we have had a lot of people cut through our yard (outside of the fence) from the tracks to my road and back. So, Paul played fireman and saved the day and my house!

HOW ABOUT PEOPLE NEED TO SAY AWAY FROM MY BACK YARD!!!

We got the fire out and were off to my Aunt Grace's retirement party. It was a surprise for her and a lot of fun. Her boys Perry and Steve went all out with a big cook out, friends with memories to share, great decorations and super sweet gifts for their mom. We love Aunt Grace. She is so sweet and always smiling. In fact, on the way there, Alyssa asked, isn't Aunt Grace the one with red hair, glasses and always smiling. lol Yup, that would be her. Always a kind word and a smile. We love you Aunt Grace. Congratulations on your Retirement!!

We took it easy the rest of the weekend because we were all so worn out from such a crazy week. We rented some movies. Let me recommend: Mad Money, Surfs Up, and 27 dresses. Of the ones we rented these were the good ones.

We are still playing with puppies. We still have two available. One may be spoken for as she makes up her mind but it needs a home soon so if anyone wants to talk about it, please let me know.

Hope everyone had a good weekend and I hope this week is a great one for everyone. I have another murder mystery party coming up. With these parties, you come in character and play along so if you would like to join the fun, PLEASE let me know soon and I will send you the information you need to know. We hope you will all join us.

Little Puppies Need Love too

2008-05-14T09:57:00.000-07:00

LOOK AT THIS FACE.... Hi, I would give you my name but I have not been given one yet. I am looking for a loving home and a good family. I am a sweet little female peek-a-dot. I am pretty laied back and mild mannered. I can not promise that I will not nibble at your toes or try to steal your socks but I do promise to always give lots of kisses and let you cuddle with me anytime you want.

It looks like my hair will get long and wavy. That should be nice for bow placement and decoration. I am not expected to get anymore then about 10lbs (on the high scale). My mom and dad are both small (5 and 8 lbs). All of my sisters and my brother have been spoken for, so I am the only one still waiting to find my place in the world and the family I will explore this world with.

If you want to take me home, mommy Alona is waiting to hear from you. ARF! ARF!

Now how can anyone resist THAT!!

"If Life were easy, it wouldn't be hard."

2008-05-13T12:32:00.000-07:00

My dear sweet Mother-in-law sent me a book for mother's day. I just have to share a small part of this book that has impacted me already while just reading the beginning. The book is written by Sheri Dew and the name of the book is "If Life were easy, it wouldn't be hard."

on page 4 it reads:
It's true that if life were easy, it wouldn't be hard. Meaning this: What if every prayer were instantly answered in the way we wanted it to be? What if a little bit of spiritual due diligence now and again kept us in constant and clear contact with our Heavenly Father? If nothing ever tested our faith or our resolve or our convictions-- because we really don't know what we believe or believe in, for that matter, until we're tested-- then what are the chances we would progress far enough spiritually in this lone and dreary world? Weather we like it or not, our trials and struggles can tend to accelerate our push toward godliness. In fact, it's possible we wouldn't go as far as we're capable of going without them. "For all those who will not endure chastening ... cannot be sanctified" (D&C 101:5)
Brigham Young said that "God never bestows upon His people, or upon and individual, superior blessings without a severe trial prove them". Sounds a bit foreboding on the one hand. But on the other, surely we couldn't expect to inherit the gift of eternal life or to receive ongoing bestowals of charity or to be taught the mysteries of godliness or to learn to communicate clearly with the heavens without making a diligent, consistent effort-- in other words, without it requiring a lot of spiritual work.
A friend of mine has sometimes wondered out loud what the headline in the Rocky Ridge Gazette might have been if those who pushed, pulled and prayed their handcarts over that forbidding Wyoming terrain hadn't kept going: "Turned Back Because of Rain." Or, "Turned Back for Fatigue" Or, "Turned Back Because It Was Too Hard."
They didn't turn back. And neither can we.
This life was designed to be a test-- a test to determine if we want to be part of the kingdom of God more than we want anything else. Mortality offers a wide range of experiences and opportunities, everything from countless ways to serve our fellowman to an endless array of distractions, deceptions, and modes of self gratification. When all is said and done, perhaps the most fundamental question we each answer is, Do we want to be part of the kingdom of God--both here on earth and eternally-- more than we want anything else? And do we demonstrate by our choices and priorities, by how we live our lives--everything from the way we spend our time and energy to the way we spend our influence and resources-- what we really care about?

I don't know about you but I have been tested and pushed to my limits on several hundreds of occasions. I have also been truly blessed over and over again. I may not have a ton of money or a big fancy house but I do have a great job. I have a lot of really good friends. I have an awesome husband who loves me more then I had ever imagined that a husband could love his wife. I have children who are really good kids and who know that I love them and I know they love me as well. My kids are such good examples for me. My husband has finally gotten the job he has wanted for a very long time. (boy the wait for this one was a huge test!!) I think for as many things as I have been through in my past, my life is pretty dang good.
I guess what I am getting from this part of this book is like the saying goes. " I never said it would be easy, I only said that it would be worth it". This saying has helped me though some tough times.

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY

2008-05-11T20:36:00.000-07:00

Happy Mothers Day to all of the moms out there.

I sure love my mom. She is amazing. She has taught me so much. Most of all, as a single mom, I learned that if she can make it with 11 kids on her own then I have no room to complain about dealing with 3. That alone helped me through a lot of hard times. No matter what mistakes you make or how bad things get.....NEVER GIVE UP.
Thanks mom for all you have done and for who you are.
I love you.

Welcome Home Morgan

2008-05-11T14:24:00.000-07:00

On Friday night my nephew Morgan Titus returned safely from his two year and some months (extended) Mission in Colorado. (Morgan is the one in the pics with the blue plaid shirt on.) His family had a welcome home party/cookout for him on Saturday. I thought it was going to rain but it did not. We had beautiful weather for it. So much so that the pool was very inviting. It was sure good seeing him again. To know Morgan is to love Morgan. He really is a great guy. He has such a fun and friendly personality and seems to love everyone. I know that he made a huge impact on the lives of those who he met in Colorado.

All of this grandparents were there, some other family and a lot of friends came to welcome him home.

My brother Bronson (Morgan's dad) has two sons and three daughters. His other son Josh was also home visiting for Morgan's return. After Josh returned from his mission in Utah, he headed back to Utah for school. He loves it there. It was great that he was home as well.

Bronson and Laurie(mom) have such a fun family. I love visiting with them. When I was 13-14 I lived with my brother for a while. While there I was the babysitter for Josh and later for Morgan. I LOVED the time that I spent there. I love the girls as well. Kendal who is graduating high school this year and the twins Hannah and Chandler who are 13. I was off being a mom myself when the girls came along so I only babysat Kendal a few times and the twins I watched a lot when they were babies. For everyone of Bronson's children there is a story and a reminder to different parts of my life.

Now that I have written and revised this post, since I noticed this was turning into a therapy session for me. I am cutting it short with this. I want to once again welcome Morgan home. We missed him and are so thankful for the great example he is for my son as well as other kids in general.

Anyway, with great food, good friends, lots of family and fun, here are some pictures of the cookout for you to enjoy.

sumo wrestlers and a lesson on being nice

2008-05-04T17:06:00.000-07:00

Ok, let me explain....
When you walk into the Sumo's restaurant on Clemson Rd, the first thing you see as you step into the door is a picture of a group of Sumo wrestlers standing in a circle. So, with that as circles go, you can see the front view of some and the rear view of others. All I can say is, maybe I should put a pic of sumo wrestlers in my bathroom so when I step on the scale, I know....its really not THAT bad. lol
This was my first visit to Sumo's. Paul and I went on a double date and had so much fun. We had a WONDERFUL meal, the chef puts on a show and we were in awesome company.
As we were waiting on our table when we arrived, there was a little boy and his little bit older sister standing there waiting with their mom near by. They had some b-day gifts there waiting with them. Paul asked the boy if the gifts were for Paul. The little guy was quick to tell Paul that it was his birthday and not Paul's and he would not be sharing the gifts. So Paul asked the boy his age. He turned 9. The sister stepped in to let us know that she was 11 I think. Paul said that he was 13, they said no, you look like you are 18. LOL he said yeah, you're right. You are sooo smart. LOL. Then the boy said no, you really look like you are 21. Of course Paul agreed and they are BFF's !!!LOL So as Paul confessed of his age to the kids, I said, he's old huh, they said "not really cause our dad is 50". So, I think Paul is feeling a lot better about his age these days and he has new friends. LoL it was really cute. Paul makes friends everywhere he goes.

Speaking of making friends. I so enjoyed the lesson in Relief Society this morning. Christy does a really good job. She was talking about how we should think about our actions more. Think about how we affect others and think about if our actions, or words would change if the Lord was in our presence. That made me think about my family and my friends. I know for a fact that things would be different around my house if Jesus were here. I mean my house would be cleaner, I would work harder to treat my family better. I would be more careful to treat my friends better. There is a lot I would do different.
Then the thought came up in class that it is up to us as to how we let other people affect us. If someone is driving me nuts, I can either get mad or I can find a better way to react. When we get mad, it always affects us more then it even is noticed by the person who has angered us. If Jesus were here, would we let that person make us mad? Probably not.
So on the way home from church, my children and I had a talk about how we are all going to try to work on not letting people get to us. That we are going to try to walk away from potential fights and disharmony. We are going to try not to bother others or do things that would normally make them mad and when someone bothers us we are going to find a better way to handle our feelings about the situation.
This is a pretty big goal for our family. I really think that it would do us all so much good to achieve this goal. I hope it will bring our family closer and clear some of the tension that sometimes interferes with our home. Paul and the children all agreed that it is important that we ALL work on this together. I am excited and hope we can all stick with this one and make it work for our family.
I also want to say that I know that sometimes we meet people so that other people will come into our lives. I have had many experiences where, because I know one person, I get to know other people better then I may have before. I am thankful for my friends and those experiences that I have had to make the friends that I have. I consider myself very blessed to be surrounded by people who genuinely care about me and my family and I hope that they know how thankful I am to have people like this in my life. I have an awesome family at home and in life and I have awesome friends all around me. I am so thankful for that.

ITs TIME FOR A GIRLS NIGHT!!!!!!!

2008-04-24T12:54:00.000-07:00

Let's do a MOVIE night at my house on Saturday night. This Saturday April 26th at how about 7:30. I have a cute movie that we can watch and we will just break out the popcorn and munchies.

EVERYONE is invited. Please do not wait for me to name you individually. I really would like EVERYONE to come hang out with us and I do not name names because I do not want to leave anyone out. So.....dont think too much about it. Just put on your PJ's and come join the fun. Being with the girls is always a good time and the more the marrier.

PLEASE shot me a note if you are coming so I know how much junk to get. I look forward to seeing YOU ALL here!!! Oh and yes you can bring a friend. Lets get a big group together this time.

What is in a name?

2008-04-23T09:13:00.000-07:00

I called my mom today. While chatting we got on the topic of past memories. She was telling me some things about her childhood, and leading up to meeting my dad. We then spoke for a while about my dad. How he was. Things he did. How he looked and acted. She reminded me that I look verymuch like my dad. For me, I love to hear these stories. I was very young (almost 4) when my father was killed in a coppermine cavein. When I talk with mom and she tells me about my dad's personality and traits, I am very much like he was. We both have that quite and very loving personality. Good listeners and very understanding. We both love hugs and touching. We both were shy but when on a comfortable topic, we love to talk, show, and or explain all we know about it. Love to share things with others that we are very comfortable with. Having these talks with my mom brings be closer to my mom but I also feel very close to my dad. I love and miss him very much and still think of him often.
While thinking of him, I often remember that I was named after him. His name is Lonnie Joe Titus. (meaning Noble and ready/ prompt) He was named after his father who's name meaning the same thing was Alonzo Titus. So between the two of them came my name Alona. My name with the Hebrew meaning of Oak (hum....maybe I am a tree. lol no no, we will say I am strong. Yeah lets go with that. lol) or the boy version of my name is Hawaiian meaning Excellant/ high mountian. Well I am tall like a mountian, was big like one too. I am just sticking with the Excellanet part of it.
I think names are very important. While naming a child, so much love and thought must go into giving that child a name. This name will be this child. This name will be what this child lives with and is known by. Some parents look in a book and just pick something. Others really give it a lot of thought and ponder for the full 9 months or more before they decide on a name.
As a child, I did not like my name. It was too original. No one pronounced it correctly and I was always embarrassed about having to correct people. As I got older, I learned to appreshaite my name. I have a name that is original and for that i stand out just a little. When someone calls my name I know they are calling me and not 20 other people. Think about it, how many people do you know named Alona? I hear this name now more then I ever did as a child. A few years ago, I had a girl scout troop with an Alanna, Alaina, and Elana. Then me as a leader. That was kinda cool for all of us. Now as an adult, I think my name is pretty and I think about how close it puts me to my dad. I have a brother who passed away from illness before I was born. His name was Lonnie Joe, JR. So, I am the only one now of 11 kids who was named after my dad. That is speacial to me. I even treasure giving my pets a name. That is why I decided to change the original name I had given my puppy. Remember I had introduced Tinkerbell to all of you a little while ago. Then after getting to know her, I felt the name Molly fit her better. She is a great dog but not a Tinkerbell. She is my Molly.
With my kids each one tells a story. I looked up the meaning of all of their names today. So, for Paul's kids I do not have their stories. I will have to get that from Paul sometime. Next is DJ. His full name is James Daniel Rollins III. His name means Supplanter. (huh? not sure what that means but whatever) This is the child that I agreed to let their father name. He had always wanted to continue the tradition, as he was James jr, he wanted a 3rd. Well, during my pregnancy I had the chance to meet James, Sr and decided that although they had the same name, I wanted my boy to be his own. I wanted him to be a different type of person and to not want to be like the 1st 2. So, we call him DJ. I know it should have been JD but since we do not live in Texas or Utah and we are not on a ranch, we will go with DJ
Now, we have Keely. When I was expecting her, there was a girl on tv and her name is Keely Shay Smith. I thought she was a pretty girl but most of all, I just fell in love with this name. It was original but not crazy. I just love the way it sounded and it just felt right for my baby girl. Origin: Gaelic Meaning: Beautiful; handsome . Now learning the meaning of the name I totally agree.
Now my final creation Alyssa. Alyssa was almost Jessica. For me, knowing this would be the last one, I wanted something close to my name. We had a James and without having another Alona I wanted something close. I think Alyssa works well. Too well sometimes. When I have to complete school registration forms I am always starting to write Alyssa and ending up with Alona and visversa. Anyway, with the situation I was in while I carried her, she was my way of being selfish. Thanks for the donation James.
Gender: Girl Origin: Germanic Meaning: Noble kind
This was interesting to me. I do not dwell much on the meaning of a name. I feel like when you have a name and carry it from birth to adulthood and further though life you give it your own meaning. The reason I was given my name means far more to me the what the dictionary tells me my name means. So, with that, what does your name mean? http://www.babynamesworld.com/

Weekend at a glance

2008-04-20T19:37:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a great weekend. For me it was a good one.

We started by Paul and I going out on Friday night. My sisters invited us to join them at the Comedy house. It is amaizing what you can learn from comedians. I mean the first guy helped up ponder about politics. The second guy posed the question.....Do you think it smells different in elevators for Midgets? Makes you think huh? lol Then the last and main act taught us something about blonds doing handstands, hamicks can be haserdous and what it means when girls wear lots of big jewerly. Im just saying, sometimes its better to keep it simple. I also learned that I love my own grandmother more from the things I seen there. ......You had to be here. lol

So Saturday morning, Alyssa left early to go with Aunt Caroline to see Disney on Ice. She had an awesome time. Told me about all of the different princesses and characters that were there. Thanks Aunt Caroline, that was a real treat for her.

I got up and Michelle, Hunter and Anna came over, so we all went to see the Elgin Centinnel year parade. It was fun. Lots of cool tractors.....go figure, its Elgin. lol

There was a lot of booths from people selling or advertising their businesses. We stopped into say hi to Christy Peake's booth. She had a great setup of dresses, bows, and other stuff. I wish my kids were still small so I could dress them in the cute dresses she makes. She is so talented.

Next we went to drop Keely off at her babysitting job, we went back to the house where I cleaned the yard and starting planning for my garden pond. I hope to have it put together bythe end of May.

It s going to be some work for what I want to it will be worth it. A garden pond is something i have always wanted. Now that Paul and Grandpa Ron (Paul's dad) has build me such a nice deck out back (along with all of their helpers), I can move on to the next step. The deck we have is part one of some big changes we are going to try to get done this summer. More will come as I blog our way through our changes.

It was great having the deck when the missionaries came over for dinner last night. We sat outside it the beautiful weather and chatted. Paul made burgers and sausagedogs on the grill and we had a great visit.

Well then I made it to church today. visited with my friends and after being volunteered, signed up to go to youth conference with the kids. I am sure its going to be fun. If nothing else, Valencia and I will have a good time. I even got a nap in this afternoon and played with our fat puppies.

Now I am getting ready for the new week. Its been a good weekend.

Try this one out.

2008-04-14T11:21:00.001-07:00

How many people have your name. I know you are all thankful to hear that there is only One of ME. Not sure the USA needs more then one. lol

Try it and let me know what you find out.

HowManyOfMe.com

There is
1
person with my name
in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

Could be the good bad and the ugly, but for us...

2008-04-12T08:36:00.000-07:00

For us it was " the Food, the bed, and the spooky"...

Ok this is a long one. sorry. it was a long weekend.

Most of you know that last weekend, Paul's Mom, Dad and sister Cheri were visiting from Utah. We decided to take a family trip with them and go see some sites and stuff.

We left Friday morning and drove down to Savannah, GA. What should have been a short, trip sent us about 45 mins or more out of our way because I was unsure and stopped and asked someone which way. I am not sure what drugs that guy was on but he was totally not correct.

So by the time we finally made it to the hotel we were all frustrated and tired.

We made the most of it, got things together and ended up having a great day. We shopped at some local malls. The guys found the Bass Pro shop so they were all happy. The ladies found a book store and me and my girls found a cute jewerly store. IT was good times for everyone. So when everyone was in bed that night Me, Paul and Cheri went to go check out the big cemetary in the center of Savannah. We found a lot of interesting stuff. You see the circle in the picture. That is what you call an ORB. There was nothing in the air to make that circle. It was just someone hanging out with us. Then, look beside my head in that picture. I named him Bob. He was walking around with me. There is another big one and a tiny one right inside the fence. We were talking to them and they were responding. Not in words but we knew they were there. It was so awesome.

On Saturday, our main goal was to go to 'Lady and Son's Resturant' . Owner is the famous, Paula Deen and her sons. For those of you who have never been, it is a job just to get in there. The line starts at around 8 am. The hostess arrives at 9:30 and you make your reservations to come back for either lunch or dinner. Many people do not get in. Many people who show up at lunch time or dinner time are turned away because they sell out early in the mornings. I hear that this is normally just for the weekends and that during the weekdays you can get in much easier. On this day, they were sold out for the day by 10:30 that morning. Lucky for us, we had looked into it from home and knew to make reservations ahead of time. If you have more then 9 people you can reserve a table ahead of time. We had 8 people. So to keep our table we went to the line that was hoping for a table and found a nice couple to join us. They were very happy to help us. lol They had been waiting for an hour and a half and were ready to leave. So we had some time to look around Savannah while we waited for lunch time. We walked a block or so down to the river and there was a lot of cool stuff to see.
My kids were being so good. For DJ and Alyssa to be nice to each other, we were having a very good day.All the Ladies. (Check out my fro. From the wind off the water, and me forgetting to bring my straightener, I was not having a good hair day. LOL I look like I was trying out for an 80's big hair band!!! LOL)
We were undergound. This is where they transported cotton and other goods to put it on the trains and the ships to send it out. What a cool old place. Then we headed back to Lady and Sons and waited for our table. Even with reservations, we still had a long wait. We shopped in her little store. There is no shortage of ways that family is making a dollar in that place. lol You could buy a menu for $5. I mean come on. lol Then we waited and waited. By the time our table was ready, we were totally ready for the meal. Here we are munching out. Our table was on the third floor of this three story resturant. With a seperate buffet bar on each floor. That tells you the number of people in that place. We all agreed that it was well worth the wait and the trip. The food was wonderful. Alyssa cleared out their mac and cheese while DJ and Paul were trying to find out really how many racks of ribs they could consume in one sitting. The best part was that is was the food was always hot and fresh. I guess with that many people, they know to just keep the fresh food coming. Every trip anyone made, everything was fresh and hot. That is my kinda buffet bar.
After eating, we all left happy. Some were ready for a nap while others wanted to shop and some wanted to tour. This is when DJ went with the ladies on a tour. Just as we dropped them off, the rain poured and poured. We pulled off and this horn blarred that we could hear all over town. I had an idea of what it was but was hoping it was not what I was thinking. It was just what I was thinking. A tornado warning!! While those of us in the car were trying to find a safe place to be, DJ, Grama Harper and Aunt Cheri were being shuffled to a safe room in the museum for lock down. While talking to them on the phone, I asked if they wanted us to come back and get them. They said that they were not going to be able to leave but they did not want to. This was their excitement time. lol Boy the stories they took home with them. The tornado hit about 2 hrs away and so we were all safe where we were.
Once things settled down, and the rain cleared, everyone met back and decided to go to the City Market. A cute little area with shops and stuff. This is where we passed yet another wedding. During our stay I bet we passed at least 20 weddings. about 15 or more of those were on Saturday. Tuxcedos and flowers everywhere. Then at the market Paul hung out with Marilyn a little. lol We found my fav candy store in the world as of right now. They had so many candies that are hard to find, they sold ice cream. They made Pecan pralines right there in fround of you. Giving free hot fresh samples along the way. That would be my fav part. Then they were making taffy right there too. Here in the pics, the man is making speriment taffy. Again, giving us samples. How about fresh still warm taffy. Soft and yummy.

It was really awesome to watch them make and to taste the different flavors. Seeing how even the wrappers go on. It was so cool.

We seen a lot and did a lot and had a blast. Then we left and drove over to Charleston. Stopping at Hunting Island on the way. Showed them the beach. Picked up some shells. Got our feet wet. Then drove down to Folly Beach. Shopped in all of the beach shops. Paul and Grandpa walked down the peir where they watched a guy catch a 3 ft shark, a huge sting ray and even a pelican who got tangled in the fishing line and the guy had to free. Now Grandpa is going back to Utah with a farmers tan. lol We showed them the sites of Charleston.

After a long day we got back to our hotel. We had some problems with the rooms. They were gross!!. Then they gave us new rooms. These rooms seemed better. We could breath and they seemed so much cleaner. BUT......what we did not see and would not know until we woke up the next morning, is that while we slept, we had bed bugs biting us. We all woke with bites all over us and seen the bugs. It was the worst!!! I let the hotel have a little piece of my mind before I left. Took pics and showed the guy at the desk. It was really bad. But lucky for us, that was on our way home and so at the end of what was a great trip.

I hope Paul's parents and sister had as much of a good time as we did. We sure enjoyed them being here.

Tagged.....7 Unknown Things about Me....hummm....

2008-04-08T12:34:00.000-07:00

Ok, Michelle tagged me. Let me think. What would people not know about me. I think there are many things but not sure which of those things would intrest anyone.

Ok, 1. I can not eat ice cream. Ice cream is one of my fav desserts but it makes me very very ill when I eat it. So ill, that if I have more then a bite I have to go to bed.

2. I am part of a Ghost hunters group and I have seen and heard paranormal beings.

3. I love love love roller coasters. The bigger and crazier- the better. I have to say though that now with kids and age, I choose not to ride them as much.

4. My dream is to one day be a foster mother. Very hard job...I know, but it is what I want to do. There are too many children out there who need love and no one is giving it to them.

5. I am a Grandmother. I prefer to be called YaYa which is a name one of my daycare babies gave me about two years ago. Paul's daughter Kendra made us grandparents. I can not wait to meet Mariah. She is two this year.

6. Most of you know I am from a big family. For those who do not know....I am the 8th of 12 children and my mom has 39 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

7. I have the best "new parents" anyone could ever dream of. I call them my new parents, not to replace my parents because that can not be done. I love my Mom dearly and although my dad died when I was a child, no one will ever replace him. I call them this because "in-laws" is usually looked upon as a negitive word. There is nothing negitive about Paul's parents. From the first time I met them, I knew they were awesome people. I love being around them. I have had them here to visit and they finally met my children and now I just love them so much more. I am sooooo lucky to have them as new parents and to be part of their family!! I hope to be that type of in-law someday(but not anytime soon btw).

There you have it. Hope you learned something. lol Now I am tagging Cheri, Valencia and Darla. I wonder if this will get Darla to update her blog. LOL

HAPPY SWEET 16 KEELY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-04-03T10:30:00.000-07:00

WE LOVE YOU!!!

Beenie Is A DADDY!!!

2008-03-31T20:27:00.001-07:00

Congrates Beenie Boy! Momma is pround of you for making 4 beautiful puppies. Looks like one boy and three little girls. They were born during nap time today. They are so sweet and Sassy is being such a good first time momma.

They are just as sweet as they can possibly be. A few weeks ago, my dogs helped me teach a class on reproduction to my daycare children. (yeah, it was great. Not exactly what was on my lesson plans for that week. lol)
Then we watched, and for the longest time, was just not sure if their activites were productive (if you know what I mean ;-) ) So, in the last three weeks, Sassy really started growing. Well, we were nervous that she would have them while we were out of town and my sister would have to handle it. We are very thankful though that Sassy helped me out by having them today and not waiting. I am so glad I was there. It is messy but such a cool experiance for my Sassy girl.
Anyway, we are excited. They are just sweet. In about 8 weeks we will have puppies for sale. btw. lol

Daycare parents...

2008-03-31T10:06:00.001-07:00

Check out my new daycare BLOG

What a quiet, crazy weekend

2008-03-30T18:44:00.000-07:00

Dont be confused by my title. That is really the best way to discribe it.
First, we pulled off getting Keely out of the house on Friday night so we could decorate and prepare for her surprise party. I did what I could to prepare but was very sick and just wanted to lay down. So, I took care of my daycare babies. They are such good kids. I think they know when I do not feel great. I did not lay down but I just kinda chilled out and they played good and watched cartoons.

The kids helped Paul go clean the church to help out another family that could not do it. They are so good about helping out with that calling. It is truly a family calling to be incharge of making sure the church gets cleaned every week. I am making some changes with the cleaning schedule and trying to make sure that the ward memebers know that it is up to the ward members to keep it clean. It is nice to have a nice, clean building to attend. We should all take pride in that nice building and do our part to keep it that way. I am so thankful for my family for helping me with this and for not complaining about it. I have a great family!!

Ok, so Saturday.... Got up early. Got the house together. Brantley came over to play. Then the party was on. Michelle and Anna came over to party with us. Anna and Brantley had a great time playing with balloons and candy. IT was fun.

Keely's friends came and then we went to get Keely. Brought her in and SURPRIZE!!!!!!!

It was a good time. We decorated flip flops, sang, danced and had yummy fancy dessert.

Later it started raining and got cold out so things settled down and it was finally laydown time for mommy. My house was so loud and crazy but I was totally quiet. I had totally lost my voice. If I tried a couple of times I could get afew words out. It was mostly people reading my lips and Keely translating for me. She always knows what I am thinking anyway. We are of the same mind. (scarey huh)

So night came, the weather has gotten everyone a little down, feeling yucky and so Paul made some feel better potato soup. It was yummy as always.

Sunday Morning came. It was raining and very cold out. I rolled over and went back to sleep. Then Keely came in and so we all got up. Almost all. Paul and Alyssa were sick. They staied home. I was still feeling bad but wanted to go anyway so, I took my squeeky-man voice and went to church. The numbers are church were low. With the temp at 41 and raining outside I am sure many rolled over and did not have a Keely to get them moving.

I am glad I went. I learned more about being prepared for an emergancy, I visited with friends and I heard some really good testimonies. Everyone was froze by the end of sacrament meeting because I think the a/c was on or something but it was still good to be there.

I got home. This time I made some feel good beef veggie soup. Dang it was yummy if I do have to say so myself. lol

Anyway, tomorrow I think it is time for my family to work on being prepared for emergancies and we will be working hard to get things ready for family come on Wed and for our weekend trip. WE ARE SO EXCITED!!! I am going to bed. Hoping to get my voice back tonight. Wish me luck.

IT's FRIDAY!!!!....Can You Keep A Secret???

2008-03-28T08:29:00.000-07:00

ITs been one of those weeks for me. I have been counting down the days til Friday. Not because I dont like my job or anything like that. It is more because I have not been feeling well with allergy issues, today I pretty much have no voice left at all. My kids like that part. (They pick on me:-( ) Well I just need a day off. Last weekend I did not get a day off because with Easter I just had too much to do. This weekend will be busy but I WILL have my day off. lol

Anyway, then not to mention I have 5 days until my in-laws come to visit my home and South Carolina for the very first time. I have to say I am very excited but it is in my nature to be in panic mode. That is where I work best. I still have sooo much todo to get ready for them. I really have awesome in-laws. From the first time we met, they have always been sooooo nice to me and just so loving. They are truly a fun family to be around and I am delighted that we can finally show them our lives and our side of the world. This will be the first time also that they meet my kids. My children are excited to finally meet them as well.

So everyone help me pray for good warm weather for next weekend so they will have a great visit. Or atleast great weather during their visit. lol Since they got snow yesterday, I am thinking as long as we do not get rain, it should be good for them.

It will be Paul's Mom, Dad and sister Cheri. Cheri is getting a mom vacation for a few days so that will be fun for her. Of course since I am surrounded by kids 24/7 it will not be a total break but I hope she will be able to relax some. We are heading to Savannah and Charleston to take them to the beach so that should be great. Good weather would sure make it better.

We have a big full weekend planned next week and we are all excited about them being here.

Now, if I can just get my house cleaned and my voice back before then, all will be good. Before that can happen though, I have a party to put on tomorrow morning. About that secret.

My Keely Beely will be

SWEET 16 on April 3rd.

Since Paul's family will be in town that day and weekend, we told Keely she will have to wait until the next weekend to have her party. I let her plan it. She invited the people, we together planned the activites, (except for a couple surprises I am throwing in) and she planned the food. What she does not know is that, I changed the date of the party. Instead of being the 12th. It will be TOMORROW....March 29th!!! So, she is going off to spend the night with her friend tonight. Her friend has strict instructions to get her here at a certian time and to keep the secret. IT will be a

sweet sixteen / pretty in pink party.

It should be a ton-o-fun!!!

I cant believe my kids are getting so old. One day they are going to pass my age. lol

Easter Dinner Help

2008-03-21T09:13:00.000-07:00

Just a note. If any of you would like help with making fancy rolls for Easter, please let me know. I will be more then happy to help with them.

I hope everyone has a fun and happy Easter weekend. Just remember the reason for the season. This we have to be reminded of for Easter and Christmas. Each just as important as the other. Sometimes we get so caught up in the eggs and chocolate bunnies that we forget about Jesus Christ and the sacrifices that he made for us. Where do the eggs come into this anyway??
Well....I looked into it. Here are some Easter Symbols and what they mean. Some of these we do not normally see in our religion but will explain why others use them.

Easter Bells:- Are rung in France and Italy throughout the year but they are not rung on the Thursday before good Friday. They are silent as way to remember the death of Jesus. They are then rung on Easter Sunday as way of telling people Jesus is alive again.
The Cross:- This is the symbol for the Christian religion as Jesus was nailed to a cross but then came back to life.
The Easter Lily:- The lily was a reminder to the Christians of how Jesus came back to life. The white Easter Lily is used in many Easter services. It is supposed to be a symbol of the purity of the Virgin Mary.
Easter Flowers:- Such as daffodil, narcissus and the tulip. Area symbol as they bloom in the spring.
Pussy Willows:- These are especially picked at Easter in England and Russia. People would tap each other on the shoulders with a branch of the pussy willow for good luck.
Lambs:- The lamb is a symbol as people thought of Jesus as the Good Shepherd who would watch over them as they were lambs. Lambs are born in spring. The Israelites also used lamb's blood to save their firstborn in ancient Egypt.
Rabbits:- Rabbits are reminder of spring and new life. They were the favorite animal of the spring goddess Eastre.
The Egg:- These are a symbol of spring as well as Easter. They are a sign of new life.
Chicks:- The chicks are born from eggs and are a reminder of spring and Easter.
Candles:- Candles give light in darkness. Jesus is seen as "the eternal light" showing Christians the way from death to life.
Palm Branches:- These are used as a symbol of peace.
Bread:- Unleavened flat bread is eaten to remember Jesus's sacrifice.
Wine:- Red wine is drunk to remember Jesus shedding His blood for humans.
Fireworks:- These are believed to frighten away evil spirits. They also show that out of darkness comes light. .
Easter Eggs
Of all the symbols associated with Easter the egg, the symbol of fertility and new life, is the most identifiable. The customs and traditions of using eggs have been associated with Easter for centuries. for more information and History on Easter Eggs you can find it at: http://www.easterbunnys.net/eggs.htm

What ever you believe, what ever symbols you use, be thankful this season and have a wonderful Easter Weekend.

whadda weekend!!

2008-03-15T18:20:00.000-07:00

We started with a fun Girls Night. Thanks to all who came and to those who tried but did not.....see you next time. We missed you!

We played a game that was much more fun in my head then it was on a Friday night when everyone was too tired to think. Note to self.....No thinking games after 5pm on Fridays. Ok got it.

Now, look at Michelle trying to look all grown up with the adults.

HA! it's ok Michelle, we know better. Now check out the pic of Michelle in her normal form with someone closer to her age. LOL we love you!

Well it was a good time.

The food was yummy. Thanks Paul.

Dont we all love Paul.

I know all of my friends love him. I also know he will be well taken care of if something were to ever happen to me. lol Its all good. I have him now. I will not need him if I am not here. ;-)

We went out this morning to go clean the church. We get back just as the rain began. Now, for our Elgin weather. What in the world is going on. It is Elgin for goodness sakes. We do not have tornados in Elgin!!! Or we didnt....I guess now we do. Check out our little neighborhood.

Oh Hail!!

Railroad crossing arm broken.

I Hope everyone is safe. We lost lights for a while but it appears we were very lucky. The storm came within a half a mile from my house and all trees, etc in my yard are intact. We are very thankful for this as we see that many of our town neighbors were not so lucky. Trees were on cars, homes and electric lines. Mobile Homes were flipped over. Someone's boat was in their tree. Someone elses shed was gone, with stuff scattered in the yard and trampoline was in pieces in trees which were split apart. The dog was so confussed as he found that the fence was gone and he was free. Things were really bad for many. Be very thankful if you are safe tonight in your warm homes. God Bless those who are not.

My Weekend

2008-03-10T09:03:00.000-07:00

Hope all of you had a great weekend. Thought I would share mine with you.

Started Friday with going out to help my mom with somethings and ended up standing in the pouring cold rain for HOURS....literely. That was not the most fun I have had in a while but I will say that I am so lucky to have the husband who I have. It just seems that we are such a good team. Whatever project we need to do, we work well together and always seem to have a good laugh in the process. Even when the circumstances are not the best. We were cold and wet and aggravated and we still had fun and laughed and made the best of the situation.

Having been in a totally different type of marriage before, I am so totally grateful for the one I have now.

Then On Saturday, we got going late because we were not feeling that great. I had a ton of errands to run. The wind was so bad that I was totally not wanting to drive. With wind gust of upto 45 mph, that was not something I wanted to deal with. So Paul went with me shopping and handing business. He is great about doing the driving in bad weather. Him being from Utah where the weather is bad most of the year, he can handle it much better then most of us who are from SC. Note, just watch the news about how many accidents occur in the rain here and you will get what I mean. Later Saturday evening, I have to be honest to say I was not looking forward to going anywhere. I was just not feeling great, I was tired and had just needed to relax. But, I knew of Valencia's Girls Night and felt like I should really try to go anyway. Michelle and I decided to meet there and go hang out.

I am so glad that I did. It was a blast. Valencia is such a great host. The yummies were just yummy. The movie was so much better then I expected. Then we had Darla who was the most entertaining part of the evening. Little Anna hung out with me and even Cloe ended up in my lap. I felt right at home. It was such a good time. Thanks again Valencia, Hope you can make it over here on Friday night. It should be fun.

So, that brings me to Sunday. My sweet Keely spoke in Sacrament meeting. Most people do not know this but she actually volunteered. Brother Osteen is always asking the youth, who is going to speak next. No one ever wants to do it. Keely told him she would. I think he thought she was kidding. SO, he did not assign her for a while. She continued to let him know she would do it. He finally asked her this past week to speak. She prepared her talk. I only helped her a little with finding some stuff on the net from some past prophets. It was hard to locate info on the topic she picked. I gave her the info, she put it together. She practiced. She worked on the speed of talk. If you know her at all, she talks very fast. I was so proud of her when it came to it. She spoke clear and confident. She did not look up because she did not want to loose her spot but you could totally understand everything she said. She was quite beautiful standing up there yesterday and I am certainly a proud momma.

GREAT JOB KEELY BEE!!!! I LOVE YOU!!!

Girls Night At Alona's House

2008-03-03T19:20:00.000-08:00

Ok Ladies(everyone is invited), I am changing the date by one day. I think we will do the girls night thing on Friday night instead of Saturday. I always seem to have so much going on Saturday. SO.....Put it on your calendars.....

Friday night March 14th 7pm @ Alona's house for Girls night.

Should be a good time. Bring something chocolate and come join the fun!!

Please RSVP so I know how many to plan for( Paul needs to know how much soup to make ;-) ). Thanks and I'll see you there.

Tips for an Exceptional, Superb & Powerful Life!

2008-02-28T19:12:00.000-08:00

I do not get into the silly pass along emails but when my sister-in-law sent this to me, I liked it. So, I will share it. How about try some of these things and let me know how you do with them. I am going to try some as well.

1.) Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And whileyou walk, smile. It is the ultimate antidepressant.
2.) Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.Buy a lock if you have to.
3.) Buy a Tivo (DVR), tape your late night shows andget more sleep.
4.) When you wake up in the morning complete thefollowing statement, 'My purpose is to________ today.'
5.) Live with the 3 E's --Energy, Enthusiasm, and Empathy.
6.) Watch more movies, play more games and read morebooks than you did last year.
7.) Always pray and make time to exercise.
8.) Spend more time with people over the age of 70and under the age of Six.
9.) Dream more while you are awake.
10.) Eat more foods that grow on trees and plantsand eat less foods that are manufactured in plants.
11.) Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eatblueberries, wild Alaskan salmon, broccoli, almonds& walnuts.
12.) Try to make at least three people smile each day.
13.) Clear your clutter from your house, your car,your desk and let new and flowing energy into your life.
14.) Don't waste your precious energy on gossip,energy vampires, issues of the past, negativethoughts or things you cannot control. Instead,invest your energy in the positive present moment.
15.) Realize that life is a school and you are hereto learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculumthat appear and fade away like algebra class.......but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
16.) Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a princeand dinner like a college kid with a maxed out chargecard.
17.) Smile and laugh more. It will keep the energyvampires away.
18.) Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
19.) Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
20.) Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
21.) You don't have to win every argument. Agree todisagree.
22.) Make peace with your past so it won't screw upthe present.
23.) Don't compare your life to others'. You have noidea what their journey is all about.
24.) Ladies - Go on and burn those 'special' scentedcandles, use the 600 thread count sheets, the goodchina and wear our fancy lingerie now. Stop waitingfor a special occasion. Everyday is special.
25.) No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
26.) Frame every so-called disaster with thesewords: 'In five years, will this matter?'
27.) Forgive everyone for everything.
28.) What other people think of you is none of yourbusiness.
29.) Time heals almost everything. Give time, time!
30.) However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
31.) Your job won't take care of you when you aresick. Your friends will. Stay in touch with them.
32.) Get rid of anything that isn't useful,beautiful or joyful.
33.) Envy is a waste of time. You already have allyou need. God provides remember?!
34.) The best is yet to come. (in Heaven)
35.) No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and showup.
36.) Do the right thing!
37.) Call your family often.
38.) Each night before you go to bed complete thefollowing statements: 'I am thankful for __________.'Today I accomplished _________.
39.) Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.
40) Enjoy the ride. Remember that this is notDisney World and you certainly don't want a fastpass. You only have one ride through life so makethe most of it and enjoy the ride.

LIVE, LOVE, LAUGH. LIFE'S A GIFT ... UNWRAP IT!
Have a Blessed day.

Just needed something to post. LOL

2008-02-27T11:41:00.000-08:00

Girls Club was a lot of fun. The girls in this group are lively and energetic but listen when they need to and have a great time together. It is fun to watch the different age groups interact so well with each other. No one is left out and we work as a group to accomplish things together. This is great.
We have a lot planned for this group and we are very excited about it.

No pics to post this time, sorry. Will do that next time.

hope everyone is having a Happy Hump Day!!

March Girls Night

2008-02-22T15:41:00.000-08:00

Ok Ladies, This should give everyone enough advance notice. I am planning my next Girls night at my house for Saturday, March 15th. I already have some fun stuff planned so just plan it, get a sitter and come on over. Just RSVP as soon as you know for sure that you will be there. It should be a fun night.
Now no one can say they did not know in time to plan for it. LOL
Will update about it more later but looking forward to it already.
Hope everyone has a good weekend!

THANKS

2008-02-21T08:29:00.000-08:00

I have the best friends ever!! Thanks everyone!
Oh and let me go find some more pictures to post for Amy!!! lol

Time for me to Vent. It has been building up for a while.

2008-02-20T11:52:00.000-08:00

So, I have not posted in a day or few just because sometimes I dont know what to say. I just enjoy coming on and reading everyone elses blogs. So, today I was thinking that this is a good place for me to get somethings out that I have been holding in so....here goes. lol
It is only the end of Feb. and I have already had so much drama in my life that I have not even asked for or deserved. I am just not sure what type of lesson I am suppose to be learning from all of this. Maybe I can explain, you all can tell me the lesson and then if I get it, things will get better and I can move on.

If you know me well you might guess that I have been the one in the family who has always been friends with everyone. I have always gotten along with all of my 10 siblings. Even my sister who I think is just weird. I do not always agree with her but we still get along. I get along with everyone and try hard to be friendly with everyone. I am very much the comforter in the family and in general. I just want everyone to be happy. Well, for some reason, this year so far I am having a lot of conflict in my life with people. It just makes me sick to think about it. The thing is, I do not think I have done anything to bring this on. Maybe I have, I just do not know and do not see it. I know that I have done all I can to repair the problems with these people. It just bothers me very much that there is a problem to begin with.
I hope and pray that no one thinks I have changed in a negitive way. I hope that any changes I have made in my life would be positive for others as they are all positive for me. I have had nasty very false rumors spread about me. These rumors are concerning things that I love dearly and would NEVER do anything to hurt these people in any way.These false rumors are stinging even though I know how false they are. The thought that someone might believe them just kills me. I can not imagine what someone may think they are to gain by making up and spreading lies about people but I am dealing with that. I am doing my best to move on but this one will take me a while.
Next, because that is not enough....I get called into the Bishops office and questioned about starting clicks!!! WHAT???? The thing is, all I did in this situation that he was told about is I accepted an invitation to go out to dinner with some friends. But now, I am starting a click and leaving people out. Ok, whatever. So....I am just getting this all out. So who ever had a problem with me and was mad because I went and they did not, I had nothing to do with the invitations, I just went because those people are my friends and I was invited and ....JUST GROW UP!!! Ok, not trying to go back to that subject but had to get it out. Moving on now.
Alright well, Now, I had one more thing. This week, I had a daycare parent get mad at me and pull her child from my daycare because she called and I was not here to tell her about her child. See, the thing about this one is, this is a new baby that I started watching in Jan. I told Paul I think we will have problems with them. Sometimes in this business, you can just tell about some people. Anyway, I had business to tend to and left the children with my registered substitute.
So, this is what happened the other day and the people got mad and nasty with me bacause I was not there. This coming after we made it clear with them when they came over to meet us that this is our procedure. I have a substitute and sometimes I have to leave. SO, they lied to me and told me that the child was not being properly cared for. I was only gone for 2 hrs. So what they were doing is saying that I was not doing my job. Ok, I have a problem with that!!!
I try to be a very patient and tolerant person. I take A LOT before I even indicate that I am mad. On the other hand, there are two ways to make me very angry very fast. One is that you mess with my children. The other is that you mess with my daycare (or the children in my daycare). If you are going to accuse me of something concerning these two topics, you better come with proof and with your fighting gloves on because I do not back down to these topics.
So, I will fight this battle. Hopefully, it will fade away quickly and I will not need to get ugly about it. It is just the point of the matter. When people get angry, you should really make sure you know what you are getting into or how you are affecting people before you open your mouth with false information and accusations.
Maybe, I am suppose to be more patient then I already am. Or maybe I need to learn anger mangement. That could be it because I am still working on that one.
Anyway, I just needed to vent. I know I did not want negitive stuff on here so I really did edit this a few times before posting and I promise this draft is the much more mild one.
So, how about let me know if you think I have changed. Like if I have made negitive changes I need to know because I do not want that.
Next how about let me know what you think I am suppose to be learning from the trials.
LOL Good thing I have a blog, this would not have been a good testimony topic. I think the Bishop would have asked me to sit down and to meet him in his office during Sunday School.
wooooo.....ok I am better now. lol Hope you are having a happy hump day! ;-)

Ward Valentine Dance

2008-02-15T20:26:00.000-08:00

We had a blast at the Ward Valentine Dance tonight. We debated all day as to if we should go or not but once we got there we were so glad we went. We had so much fun. Hanging out with Mike and Kristi Chesley and Darla and Tommy Wannamaker, how could we not have fun. We took chances and learned new dances. I even let Paul drag me around the floor as he tried to show me some western dance thing that I totally did not get. Sorry Sterling and Karen, I will make sure I know it for next time. lol

I did not take the time to eat but the goodies looked really yummy. I brought some indoor s'mores which I know were 'da bomb'!
We line danced, slow danced, western danced, chicken danced and even hokie pokied. Even the people watching part was very entertaining. For any of you who considered going and then backed out, you should have went. Maybe we will do it again sometime. Sterling does a great job with his music and dj deal. It was a fun group. Thanks to everyone for helping us have such a good time.

Some PICTURES FOR YOU

2008-02-13T20:03:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to Aubrey! She is a WHOLE hand full now!! ;)

Love the purse!

She got a puppy but wanted a real one. Sorry sweetie, your mom would have shot me. You can still come over and play with Tinkerbell, all you want.

We love the monkey card Darla.

Ashleigh was just full of love tonight. Full of something else too I think but we will stick with the love thought. LOL Me and Ashleigh BFF!!!

Ashleigh, why do you always look so confussed??

We were making Valentines but DANG Amy was excited!! LOL

Ok and if you were there you would understand why I had to sneak a bite. YUMMMMMMM!!

Keely is a blogger too

2008-02-12T10:22:00.000-08:00

Ok Cindy, I had to copy you. Not trying to steal your thunder, as you say, just trying to protect my daughter. Hope you dont mind.
So, Keely has a blog now too. She has wanted one for a long time. I just did not see a reason for it. Now I do so here you go. I am just getting it started for her and she is going to do some creating on it.
Good Luck Keely! Love you. http://keelybee.blogspot.com/
Oh and I do know how to spell, I just do not slow down enough to see what I am doing. lol

My Weekend

2008-02-10T16:06:00.000-08:00

Well we had a very nice yard sale. Made a good bit of money but most of all got a ton of junk out of my closets. This would be good since I have such limited storage space in my house. Anyway, then when it was over, we took a trip to Goodwill to dispose of even more junk. Next was a trip to Micheal's. I needed picture frames and they are having a big frame sale. I love sales. So, I got what I needed there, made my normal trip to wal~mart and then back home. I was having a productive day so I completed my picture work and decorated a bare wall that I was working on. You see, we try at tax refund time to use our money for big items that we can not get just anytime. My furniture was about 6 years old and very worn down so we replaced it. I was going for the black but Paul agreed that if I chose the cream color then we could repaint the walls. He likes white walls and I do not like feeling like I am living in a hospital. I like a little splash of color. WE agreed and he got the cream color and I got the wall color. Now we are working on changing everything to match the new colors. Here are some pictures. I am limited on space but I think it is coming together. So, after all of that....we had ward conference this morning. That is always fun for me. It being Valentine's Day week, my girls were decked out it their cute hair ribbons and valentine colors. I enjoy getting to see people who visit for conference who I do not get to see very often. There are usually great talks and a nice message in Relief Society, then a GREAT meal before heading home for a nap. So, all of these things came to pass. I listened and learned, I visited and ate, and ate. There was a good message in Relief Society. I even was able to enjoy a good chuckle during our good news moment. We learned way too much about one sister and how she ended her vow of celibacy with her husband. When that story started and had such details, I was not sure where it was going or what to expect. All I can say is....you go gurl!! Nothing like making the "Stake Relief Society Presidency" Blush!! It was great.

Then I also had a great visit with a good friend. Laughed and chatted a while. Came home to Paul cooking dinner (he rocks!) to close down a very nice day. I really am at a happy place in my life. Things are not perfect and I still have struggles here and there, but for the most part, life is good. Good times, good friends and an awesome family. Can not ask for much more then that. Not to mention, there have been too many times when things were way worse.

So, for all of you not having a good day, just remember, it could always be worse. So, make it a good one. If not for you, then do it for someone else.

My Daycare Website

2008-02-06T13:28:00.000-08:00

http://alonaharper.tripod.com/

It has been updated. Let me know what you think.

Bread Class at Connie's

2008-02-05T20:16:00.000-08:00

So, Paul and I do this bread class thing. We learned some tricks and just want to share what we learned with others. So, we have done a couple of classes at church but there are always scheduling conflicts so there have been a couple people ask for classes in their homes. So, Connie asked for one and there were some others who said they wanted to come to the next class. Anyway, a small group came over to Connie's and we did some BAKING!

We had a fun group and we made some yummies. The whole idea is that we try to show an easy way to make bread and then show that there are SOOOOO many things you can do with that bread dough beside just loaves of bread.

We hope that everyone has fun, leaves full and most of all, we hope that they learn a little something along the way.

Thanks Cindy for always having your camera onhand so that I can BLOG about BREAD. LOL

2008-02-04T20:24:00.000-08:00

Let me introduce you to "TINKERBELL"
On Saturday we added this tiny 'Pek-a-tzu" puppy to our family. She will be the same size as our "Pek-a-poo" Beenie. We figured he needed a new girlfriend. lol well maybe girlfriend in training for now.
The older kids at my daycare had a little unexpected lesson on reproduction last week when Beenie was outside with Sassy. So, maybe in about six weeks we will be advertising puppies. Everyone start thinking about how great a new little dog would be. hint hint!!
Anyway, so Tink is here and the babies here love her (too much) so we spend a lot of time protecting her. I have a feeling she will be even more spoiled then Beenie. My goal is that she will at least like adults who come to visit. Beenie, loves kids but not so much with those over 5 ft. Beenie is getting use to her but not because he wants to. I think they will be fine. When he did not know we were, he actually played with her a little. Funny!
So, yes we have a new baby and Hunter, Anna, Jared, Aubrey, and Brantley(and the rest of the gang) have a new puppy.

2008-02-04T19:44:00.000-08:00

Well First of all thanks for checking out my new blog. I had to change so please change my link if you have be saved on your friend list.

Next, WOW what a weekend! Well we started with painting our front room on Wed night. So, I have been focused on decorating and getting things changed around. Then, I decided at the last min to have a girls night at my house. It was so much fun! Thanks to those who came. Michelle, Lil' Anna Nanna, Darla, Anita, Cindy, and my girls were there too.
We started out with Paul's yummy soup. I love my man and that he cooks for me and is good at it. Anna loved it too. Anita, you can get the receipe or maybe I will rent him out. LOL jk. Although the whole sharing thing sounds totally in my favor so.... (hee hee)

Then we pampered ourselves with some satin hands treatments. My hands are all smooth now. Next was game time. It was great but I dont think we ever finished any of the games we started.
Darla, your hair looks great btw!
We moved right into the music. Dancing and singing (if you want to call it that). That was a lot of fun. I am just concerned ... I am not sure between Michelle and Keely who was being the bad influence. Maybe that is why Keely loves you so much Michelle. You are so fun to hang out with.
You know Cindy got lots of pics and some good ones at that. It was totally a blast. For those who came Thanks for such a fun night and those who did not make it, just plan on it for March!

After a late night, Paul and I got up early to meet with Michelle, Cindy, (Cindy's mom and sister) to head out to the fair grounds for the Clean Sweep sale. We had just more fun and good some great stuff. I think we all racked up! Love it! From there we went ovr to the Barn Yard Flea MKT were I found LOVE in a Tinkerbell! lol