Visiting Teaching Tales...

I am a Visiting Teacher. In The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints, all women have a special privilege to be a Visiting Teacher, and to be "visit taught." As a Visiting Teacher we watch over other Sister's in the church, help them when they need it, and share a gospel related message with each other once a month.


This month was like any other. I was off with my Visiting Teaching Companion to visit two ladies. Unlike other months, I brought my two kiddos. *Sigh*


Our first stop went ok. Bristol whispered in my ear the whole time "Mom, there is a swing outside." In which I would stroke her face and nod while still trying to direct my attention to the two other women I was with. After telling me this a few too many times, she finally decided to make herself at home by climbing up to the table and coloring.


Not bad....


Then we were off to stop #2. Tytan was screaming, and Bristol was a bit agitated. So upon her request, I rolled Bristol's window down. I had never had a problem with this before. But there is always room for something new to happen! We were driving merrily along when all of a sudden my companion yelled "Bristol just dropped Belle out the window!" *Sigh*


I pulled over, turned around, and we looked for Belle along the road and canal. But to no avail, we couldn't find her. I said a little prayer in my mind...well it was kinda a prayer. "Heavenly Father, I'm doing my Visiting Teaching, which is what you would have me do! Please don't let Belle be lost forever!" I returned to the car to find Bristol screaming as my companion explained that she would buy Bristol another one. *Sigh* 


We kept driving, but the sign that said "road closed" really meant "road closed" and we had to take a detour in which we found Belle on our way back! All in all Visiting Teaching was a success, and another prayer answered!

Happy Birthday Dad!

We have had some great times! You have been there for me through thick and thin, taught me just about everything I know, and played hard through it all! 

Here's to many more years of having a great time together!

Love ya!

The Moment I Cried: My Mom Loves Me

I remember those days all too well.


In 2002-2003 I suffered from extremely painful ovarian cysts. I would wake up in the morning around 5 AM and jump in the shower. If I had a cyst, that is when it usually let me know of it's presence. I would get out of the shower sopping wet and soap still in my hair, just enough to open the door to lay on the floor and scream for my mom. Her presence calmed me just enough to get back into bed or head to the hospital...yet again. It was always the same tests, and the same diagnosis. 


Not this day. 


I actually made it to dance practice on February 24, 2003. We were conditioning really hard and the pain stabbed my lower abdomen like a knife. I ran into the locker room and screamed while thrashing on the floor. (Ya...the locker room floor. Gross I know.) My coach was there, and then I was in the nurse's room. Then my mom whisked me to the Dr. for the final time. I was in so much pain, the memory is jagged and incomplete. This was it. Surgery, tomorrow. This cyst was big, it wouldn't pop, and it had a conspicuous fluid inside that was concerning. 


February 25, 2003. My mom's birthday of all days, she spent the day in the hospital with me. It was a long day. I honestly don't really remember too much of it. But this isn't the reason I'm telling you this story.


About three or four years later I get a call from my dad really early in the morning. I recognized the noises of the ER in the background and began to panic. He said "Your Mom is in the hospital. She insisted I call you. She has an ovarian cyst. She is in so much pain. On the way over all she could say was 'I can't believe Stephanie went through this. Tell her I'm sorry. I love her.' "


I have felt the love of my Mom all of my life. I have always known that she loves me and would do, and often does do everything for me. But in that moment, I cried. My mom loves me. 


My Mom Loves Me.

Happy Mother's Day Mom. I love you too.

We met...again. FINALLY!

We made a sign. And we waited!

I am the worst at waiting. We got to the airport 45 minutes early. And I got teased about it...

Hailey(sister), Annie(sister), Natalie(cousin),
Summer(cousin),Heather(cousin)

 Ashley came running from a distance. You can see my dad in the background carrying all of her bags. It was the cutest reunion I have ever seen. She was excited, and then saw all of us and became a bit overwhelmed. She hugged us all.

Among my many favorite moments, wast this. See the very tall guy standing in the back, right in the center? That us Uncle Ernie. The beautiful people of Cambodia thought that he was President Monson when they saw him in pictures! So funny!

The whole gang that came!

 Ashley arrived in Boise at 11:53 PM. It was late, and we (they) were so tired. They had been traveling for 24 hours, and lost 12 in the process. So, the next day our immediate family got together. And more importantly, Ashley met a new niece and nephew, and was reunited with Bris and Jeffie.

And now Bristol thinks that
Ashley lives at our house!

The "Queen of Play" is back and I am so glad. I feel so blessed to have her as a sister. She is a great one, and an even better person. Her mission was amazing. My heart aches because I know that she will be missed, and even more so because I know that she will miss the people of Cambodia. I know that her love for them runs so deep. 

Feelings...

My emotions have been running wild with me today. Crying. Laughing. Nervous. Anxious. Repeat. I feel as though my stomach is in my throat. That "don't say anything wrong to me because I don't know how I'll react" feeling all day. It's been kinda hard.

Ashley comes home today. *Sigh*

She has been serving an 18 month mission for The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints in Phnom Penh, Cambodia and the surrounding cities. My parents left to pick her up, tour the area, and bring her back. They get in tonight at 11:45 PM. I am so excited I could just about wet my pants, or cry, or...ya.

I remember writing my "18 Months and Counting" post like it was yesterday. On that day, I thought that today would never come. And here I am! Those 18 months are over. All of those things I said would happen have, and more.

We moved to Middleton, Id.
Ty has a great job.
Baby Hazel was born.
We got a dog!
I have started a few new hobbies.
I have made great new friends.

The list could go on. Which reminds me, I have a lot to update on!!!

Come back...I'll let ya know how the reunion went!

Sneaky? No. Smart? Yes. Getting What I Want? Maybe...

I just sent my Mr. an e-mail that went something like this.


"So...Mother's Day is coming up. Ya, it is. Not sure if you had something in mind already, but I have an idea for you. That is, only if you want to get me this. I have been wanting one for a while now...but you don't have to get it. Only if you want to."


It has to be his idea or forget it...hence the emphasis on you. 




Then I gave him specific directions to this website, and exactly what I want. I love this website! You should check it out!

Aren't they fun? Go see some more!

Your Children Want YOU!

A friend posted this on Facebook today. It totally hit home! Some days I do feel under qualified by pinterest, blogger, "world" standards. Only some days. I'll work on that! Check this article out!
Your Children Want YOU!

Thoughts of Spiritual Uplift: Easter

The water works have been turned on today. Tears just magically fall down my cheeks. I am so grateful for today, and so emotional about the thought of what Easter truly means in my life.


Today I spoke in church about the resurrection of Jesus Christ. I know that He lived, was crucified, buried in a tomb, and rose to live again on the third day. He conquered this "thing that men call death." Adam fell that men might be, and Christ died so that we might live again. This is the center of beliefs in The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints, that we might all return to live with our Heavenly Father again through our Saviour. It doesn't make sense in my mind that the great Designer would create Earth and Heaven, light and darkness, plants, animals, and last of all man to have dominion over all of these things; Man, in His own image with intelligence, deity, and ability to love, and only allow us to experience life on Earth. I don't fathom only believing that we won't love those we love here on earth for this short time, and never see them again after we die. Eternal life, that is what I believe in. I know that I will see my sweet Great Grandparents, my friends, and a sweet infant cousin again. I will see all of those whom I love, and live after my death, in Heaven.


Yes, that is all a mouth full, but it's true. And it is what I have really been contemplating a lot lately. This is Easter.


On a lighter note...


Yes, the Easter Bunny did make it to our house! Hope he hopped to yours too!


Happy Easter!


For a great video on Easter, go here.  

Bristol's 20 questions

I found this on pinterest. Thought that it was a cute idea! 


Here are the answers to Bristol's 20 Birthday questions!


1. What is your favorite color? PINK
2. What is your favorite toy? Sleeping Beauty and Tangled
3. What is your favorite fruit? Strawberries
4. What is your favorite TV show? Tangled
5. What is your favorite lunch? slamich (sandwich)
6. What is your favorite outfit? dresses
7. What is your favorite game? princess cards
8. What is your favorite snack? strawberries
9. What is your favorite animal? horse
10. What is your favorite song? Barbie song! "lalalalalalala"
11. What is your favorite book? Pinkalicious
12. Who is your best friend? Savannah
13. What is your favorite cereal? red
14. What is your favorite thing to do outside? SWING!
15. What is your favorite drink? chloclate milk (chocolate milk)
16. What is your favorite holiday? Halloween
17. What is your favorite item to take to bed? princesses
18. What is your favorite breakfast? pancakes
19. What would you like for your birthday dinner? cake
20. What do you want to be when you grow up? go to school...with Hailey


This little girl is so funny! She loves life, and had absolutely no problem coming up with these answers! She is so cute! 

Thoughts of Spiritual Uplift: Oh Primary!

A little while ago I got a new "calling" in church. (This is when I am assigned to do something specific in church. Ex: I used to lead the music during our 3rd hour, now I teach the 11 year old girls Sunday School.) I not only teach Activity Days, but I now team teach the Valiant 11 year old girls. 


To be completely honest, I was extremely hesitant in accepting this calling. I hadn't been in primary for...14 years! And, I love being in Relief Society (meetings for just us women) so much that I didn't want to leave.


Let me just say that Heavenly Father knows exactly what He is doing. I LOVE Love love being in primary. I learn something new each Sunday, and what a refreshing 2 hours I have with such wonderful examples of Christ. 


Today we talked and learned more about the Book Of Mormon. Another Testament of Jesus Christ. And then we learned the song "Army of Helaman." There is nothing sweeter than hearing young children sing 100% doctrine. Brings tears to my eyes every time. To make it even better, these kids have this new thing going where they stand while they are singing if they are feeling the spirit. Oh it's amazing! The primary leaders (others who work in the primary...kinda like my "bosses") are absolutely a.maz.ing. at what they do. Spiritual giants! 


So looking forward to next time!


"Army of Helaman"/ "We'll Bring the World His Truth"


We have been born
As Nephi of old
To goodly parents who love the Lord
We have been taught and we understand
That we must do as the Lord commands

Chorus
We are as the Army of Helaman
We have been taught in our youth
And we will be the Lord's missionaries
To bring the world his truth

We have been saved for these latter days 
To build the kingdom in righteous ways
We hear the words our Prophet declares
Let each who's worthy go forth and serve

We know his plan and we will prepare
Increase our knowledge through study and prayer
Daily we'll learn until we are called
To preach the gospel to all the world

Bristol B is 3!

Daddy, Bristol and Mommy
16 March 2009
Logan, Ut

6 lbs 5 oz and 18 in. 

Bristol's 1st Birthday

Bristol's 2nd Birthday

My Dear Bristol~

You are three today! "Three in March" as you have been saying. 

My oh my. Where do I even begin. This year, you have grown so much. Just before your second birthday, your life completely changed. You got a little brother. You love Tytan. You don't like it when he is crying and rush to him and give him kisses. You love to climb into his bed and say "good morning." You are a great big sister. It isn't easy, I know, but you are learning so well.

After that change, life changed again when we moved you to Idaho. You love it in your new house. You have become a little 'Idaho' girl quite quickly, but you still have a few Utah attributes! ;) this is all good!

Your favorite thing to do outside is swing "higher" on the swing. You could do that forever. You also love to run "down the mountain" in our backyard. It's just a little slope, but it's your mountain! Ruby loves to run it with you. 

Your new thing is to put ice on your eye when you go to sleep. You are wonderful about going to bed, but you have to have your blankie and your ice. You say your prayers and brush your teeth almost by yourself. 

You love to sing and dance. You have got quite the dance moves. You can move those feet and shake those hips all at the same time! We are so excited to put into dance lessons this fall. You love learning. Going to Nursery at church is one of your most favorite things. Brother and Sister Rich adore you, and you adore them. Sundays are a great day!

You love to help mommy bake and clean...to a certain extent. You will pick up your toys, help fold laundry (socks are your favorite), sweep, but don't get too close to that vacuum cleaner!

Your new found love is playing the "biolin." You love to rosin your bow and play in the music room. You also love to dance while I play the violin and piano. You have music in your blood, and I love that about you. Keep that music in your little veins. It will bless you!

You have a great obsession with the Temple. You love talking about the temple and learning about it. You know that Mommy and Daddy got married there, and that families are forever. You understand that you have to be "bigger" to go inside one day.

32 lbs 37in tall

I love you more than life itself. I can't imagine being here without you. I love you so much! Words just can't express the love that I have for you. You are a beautiful little lady. I know that you will keep growing and learning. Happy Birthday my sweet baby girl!

Love Mommy

Sweet Sister Erekson

This is my all time favorite missionary. 
That is enough for one whole post. But that's not where I'm going with this one.


She comes home in April. I read an e-mail from her this morning. I think that she will have a really hard time leaving Cambodia. I don't even know if I'm ready for her to leave the amazing work that she has been doing. Wait, did I just say that? Ya, I did. She is doing such an amazing work, and I must say that she is really good at it. 


She is speaking in church on April 22nd here in Boise. Contact me if you would like more information!


waterskigirl5@hotmail.com

SURPRISE!

March and April are crazy months for my parents.

If I explained all of the details you might think "LUCKY!" But lets just say that my mom has been a little bit stressed out. Not to mention my dad.

Well, now I might have to explain a little. My parents spent 10 days traveling for work functions for my dad. (Then we had a little party for my mom...I'll get there in a minute.) The next day my mom left with Annie for science camp for 5 days. Two weeks later they go on a family cruise. One week after that my Dad has Stake Conference (a very large 2 day church event), and that night my parents go to Cambodia for ten days to pick up my sister Ashley from her mission. (This doesn't include the other work trip in the middle that was cancelled.) *Sigh* 

Lucky for me, I get to do a little house sitting/teenage watching while they are gone. Hence, a surprise birthday party for my mom the night they came home from their first trip. The kids were totally into it, and my mom was thrilled!

My mom got off of the plain to see that some friends' grand baby was there waiting to greet her. My mom was so home sick for her grand kids! Little did she know we were hiding in the hallway singing "Do as I'm Doing" to keep entertained while they pulled in the drive. It was too fun!

These pictures crack me up. You can tell exactly what Bris and Jeffie wanted to do...and boy did they get to do it!

Forget singing! Give me some of that frosting!

P.S. Wondering what to get someone who is traveling a lot? A kindle! Books can put your luggage over the weight limit!

...and we went to McCall

If you know me (or read my blog) you may remember hearing about McCall. Rain or shine, warm or cold, hands down my favorite place. We had a weekend to get away, which doesn't come often enough during tax season, so we made the trip and played hard!

Sorry for all of the pictures. Well, not too sorry. Just trying to figure out this new camera! 

Big T.'s Birthday

We had a smashing good time! Full of family, food, cake, and presents! 

Isn't birthday boy just dashing?

I think so!

Aunt Chrissy and B-Day boy!

Watching Tytan open presents was a bit tough for lil' Bris. I felt bad for her! But what a good sport.

A profile of the physique...gotta love it.

Big T. is ONE!

My Dearest Tytan,

You are 1 year old today! I can't believe it. Time has gone by so fast, and you have grown so much. I remember the first time that I held you. We were still in the operating room in Logan, Utah. I was being sewn back up, and you were just minutes old. I fell in love with you the instant that our eyes met. And laughed when I heard your lips smacking. You were so hungry! Mommy's Dr. nicknamed you "Bubba" because you were 9lbs 15oz. and 21 inches long. But you  were my tiny baby! Always will be!

minutes old with Mom and Dad

Nurses in the hospital couldn't get over how much you ate, and how fast you gulped it down. I couldn't get over how small you made the other babies in the nursery look!

right after your first bath

Your sister was so excited to meet you when you got home. She held you...for a few seconds. She prays for you every night. She loves you so much.

You have grown so much since that day! You now weigh 27lbs 8oz and are 31 1/2 inches tall! Your family is in love with you! You are so sweet, and such a cuddler. Your big blue eyes stop everyone! You are busy busy every day, but a really good sleeper at night! Here are some things that you love to do!

swim in the bath tub

get into the pantry

army crawl everywhere

be outside

talk through the window at Ruby

play with Daddy

love on Mommy

play "peek a boo"

say "broom broom" while you play with cars and trucks

eat

chase balls around on the floor

read books

suck your thumb

snuggle with your blanky

climb up the stairs

bang on the dryer

dance to music

follow mommy's every step

pull yourself up to furniture

climb into the dish washer

eat some more

You are such a joy and an easy going baby! You are entertained by the smallest things, and love to eat! Riding in the car you sing and talk to yourself. You love your older sister and want to do everything she is doing! Your laugh makes me laugh, and on rare occasions when you cry, it breaks my heart. Most everyone calls you "Big T." Grandpa Erekson gave you that nickname. We thought that it was quite fitting. I love you so much. You bring joy to my everyday. And at night, I still check on you before I go to bed. Here is to another fun filled year of growing, loving, and learning. 

Love,

Mommy