When John I were dating we were very open and honest with each other. I knew before we were married that us having children the old fashioned way was going to be very difficult if not impossible. But that didn't stop us from hoping. We are very blessed to be an aunt and uncle to 8 wonderful children who we get to spoil and love. For six years we have been praying to find out what Heavenly Fathers was for us in expanding our family.
In November the answer came in an unexpected way and to each of us separately. We started our journey towards adoption in the middle of December. We are in the process of becoming licensed Foster parents so we can adopt a child from the foster care system. John has been down this road before and sadly it did not end with the child he and his first wife hope to adopt. People have told me to think of it as being pregnant. This process we are going through is long and its very hard. We have to open our lives to complete strangers who are going to judge our ability to be parents. We have wanted to throw in the towel a couple of times. The only thing that keeps me from quitting is knowing this is what my father in heaven wants. Its exciting and very scary all at the same time and Im grateful for all the love and support we are receiving.
We are currently at the end of our 30 hours of classes and still have to turn in paperwork and have our home study. Ill keep you posted
Saturday, February 6, 2016
Saturday, July 19, 2014
Thoughts and Observations
Over the past several weeks I have seen many of my friends and acquaintances face major challenges head on. Then I have seen other people I know complain about really trivial things such as not getting something like a drink or having someone do what they wanted them to do. As I have sat back and watched all this I have started to put things in perspective and decided that Im going to work on not complaining about silly things.
Over the last several years I have lost 12 dear friends. Twelve. I have learned something from each of them and I smile when I think of them and I know they are looking down on me. I have friends dealing with physical challenges that make my own look small in comparison. I have friends and family that have lost children, that keep moving every day. I deal with people on a daily basis with my job that have very little and even some who are homeless. When I look at all this it makes me grateful for all I have and for the lessons I have learned. Yes not being able to get our favorite beverage or to see a movie you want is not fun, but when you put everything in perspective it doesn't matter and well. I don't think any of the rest of us want to see complaining. Lets stop complaining about the little things in life and look at how we can change. How can we support one another. Whether its having a long distance conversation with a friend who just needs a listening ear or helping friend with her kids or even keeping those who are hurting more than we ever know in our prayers. I apologize if this offends anyone but its how I feel and life is way to short. We don't know how long we have to make a lasting good impression on those around us.
Lastly I want to thank my friends that make me smile. To my friend Amy from HS you are awesome and I wish we lived closer because you are just amazing. Know that all of you are important to me and I do see what you do and who you all are.
Lets work on improving the lives of those around us and make the world a better place.
Over the last several years I have lost 12 dear friends. Twelve. I have learned something from each of them and I smile when I think of them and I know they are looking down on me. I have friends dealing with physical challenges that make my own look small in comparison. I have friends and family that have lost children, that keep moving every day. I deal with people on a daily basis with my job that have very little and even some who are homeless. When I look at all this it makes me grateful for all I have and for the lessons I have learned. Yes not being able to get our favorite beverage or to see a movie you want is not fun, but when you put everything in perspective it doesn't matter and well. I don't think any of the rest of us want to see complaining. Lets stop complaining about the little things in life and look at how we can change. How can we support one another. Whether its having a long distance conversation with a friend who just needs a listening ear or helping friend with her kids or even keeping those who are hurting more than we ever know in our prayers. I apologize if this offends anyone but its how I feel and life is way to short. We don't know how long we have to make a lasting good impression on those around us.
Lastly I want to thank my friends that make me smile. To my friend Amy from HS you are awesome and I wish we lived closer because you are just amazing. Know that all of you are important to me and I do see what you do and who you all are.
Lets work on improving the lives of those around us and make the world a better place.
Sunday, October 6, 2013
The Roller Coaster that has been our lives
Oh where to begin. I didn't realize until I logged on to do this post that the last post I made was the day
John started his Job with ALS. So much has changed.I have felt like I need to share our story for a while but didn't until David Bednars talk in General Conference for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints talk in the Saturday Afternoon session. I can testify that what he taught is true because we have lived it more than once over the last year and a half.
For the last few months John had been working at ALS and at the same time was looking for other jobs. Three weeks ago he applied for a job at the beginning of the week, got a call that the Stake Presidency. I have to add that we knew at the time that there was going to be a change in the bishopric. For my non LDS friends the bishop is the leader of our congregation and the has two counselors. The stake president is over all the congregations in a specific area. I hope this makes sense. I apologize if it doesn't. Anyway back to the story. John was scheduled to meet with a member of the Stake Presidency on that Thursday. He came home that night and told me he was going to be put in as the second counselor. The following Tuesday he sent me a text message while I was at work telling me he need to talk to me. I called him and he told me he had been let go from his job at ALS. Right after he was let go he had a phone interview with a company. The next day he had an in person interview. In the meantime our health insurance was supposed to end at midnight the night he was let go. One huge blessing was that it wasn't cut off until that Thursday after he was let go. We were able to see his Sleep Apnea doctor and get some replacement parts before the insurance was cut off. He was set apart in his new position the day our insurance ended and then the very next day he was offered a job with the company he interviewed with. So he was unemployed for a total of 72 hours. We know that Heavenly Fathers hand was in everything that happened. We know that John could not have kept the job he had and do his new position in the church at the same time. I am fortunate to work for a company that will allow me to get Health Insurance before enrollment.
We are very grateful for the many prayers that have been said on our behalf and for the support of both of our immediate families. We didn't share what was going on with but a few people.
This is part of the reason I took a break from Facebook. Theres a lot of reasons why I stepped away, too much drama and negativity and well life has been stressful. Im thankful for the few people who checked on me and wanted to make sure I was ok.
I have a strong testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I know that when John and I do the things our Father In Heaven wants us to do that our lives go much better. I will never make any apologies for sharing my knowledge of this.
John starts his new job tomorrow so prayers for a successful day are welcome.
John started his Job with ALS. So much has changed.I have felt like I need to share our story for a while but didn't until David Bednars talk in General Conference for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints talk in the Saturday Afternoon session. I can testify that what he taught is true because we have lived it more than once over the last year and a half.
For the last few months John had been working at ALS and at the same time was looking for other jobs. Three weeks ago he applied for a job at the beginning of the week, got a call that the Stake Presidency. I have to add that we knew at the time that there was going to be a change in the bishopric. For my non LDS friends the bishop is the leader of our congregation and the has two counselors. The stake president is over all the congregations in a specific area. I hope this makes sense. I apologize if it doesn't. Anyway back to the story. John was scheduled to meet with a member of the Stake Presidency on that Thursday. He came home that night and told me he was going to be put in as the second counselor. The following Tuesday he sent me a text message while I was at work telling me he need to talk to me. I called him and he told me he had been let go from his job at ALS. Right after he was let go he had a phone interview with a company. The next day he had an in person interview. In the meantime our health insurance was supposed to end at midnight the night he was let go. One huge blessing was that it wasn't cut off until that Thursday after he was let go. We were able to see his Sleep Apnea doctor and get some replacement parts before the insurance was cut off. He was set apart in his new position the day our insurance ended and then the very next day he was offered a job with the company he interviewed with. So he was unemployed for a total of 72 hours. We know that Heavenly Fathers hand was in everything that happened. We know that John could not have kept the job he had and do his new position in the church at the same time. I am fortunate to work for a company that will allow me to get Health Insurance before enrollment.
We are very grateful for the many prayers that have been said on our behalf and for the support of both of our immediate families. We didn't share what was going on with but a few people.
This is part of the reason I took a break from Facebook. Theres a lot of reasons why I stepped away, too much drama and negativity and well life has been stressful. Im thankful for the few people who checked on me and wanted to make sure I was ok.
I have a strong testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I know that when John and I do the things our Father In Heaven wants us to do that our lives go much better. I will never make any apologies for sharing my knowledge of this.
John starts his new job tomorrow so prayers for a successful day are welcome.
Monday, April 22, 2013
Answered prayers.
I intentionally waited a while to post this because we wanted to tell some of you in person and were waiting to tell a friend who shall remain nameless, of ours who kept promising to stop by. Two weeks ago this Thursday John was offered and accepted a job. His first day was today. He says he's feeling overwhelmed at all he has to learn but is grateful for the laid back environment he's been blessed with.
We want to public ally thank everyone for their continued thoughts and prayers on our behalf. We are now both employed, and have become stronger people because of the trials we have faced. We have learned who we really can count on. We are also grateful for our amazing families who without them we would never have made it through the last few months. Thank You. Both our jobs are truly answers to prayers. We know our Father in Heaven knows us and knows what we need and that he will give it to us in his time.
We love you all. Thanks again
We want to public ally thank everyone for their continued thoughts and prayers on our behalf. We are now both employed, and have become stronger people because of the trials we have faced. We have learned who we really can count on. We are also grateful for our amazing families who without them we would never have made it through the last few months. Thank You. Both our jobs are truly answers to prayers. We know our Father in Heaven knows us and knows what we need and that he will give it to us in his time.
We love you all. Thanks again
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Answered Prayers
About three weeks ago I felt prompted to apply for a job with one of our local hospital health systems. I like a dummy put it off until last Wednesday. After we found out that John didn't get the job that looked good, I finally followed my promptings and applied for a couple of jobs. Thirty minutes after I applied online for the jobs I received a phone call from one of the recruiters called me and told me she wanted me to come in and interview for one or both of the positions I applied for. I set up an interview time for the next day, which was Valentines day. I got up got ready and headed for the interview. It went so well that the recruiter sent me for a second interview for the position I decided to go for. It was a panel interview with the supervisor and a couple of other people. I left both of them feeling really good. I knew I had done everything I could do to get the job.
Well today I got a call and was offered the job and I accepted it. It has the hours I wanted and benefits. It doesn't pay what John was making but it will help. I am truly humbled at the many blessings we have received over the past several months. Im grateful for my sisters. For the love, support and advice they have given. Im also grateful for all that Johns parents and my parents have done.
We still need prayers that John will soon be able to find a job and I know he will and that it will be one that will make him happy and that he can move up in.
One BIG lesson I learned was when you get a prompting from Heavenly Father to do something DO IT!
Well today I got a call and was offered the job and I accepted it. It has the hours I wanted and benefits. It doesn't pay what John was making but it will help. I am truly humbled at the many blessings we have received over the past several months. Im grateful for my sisters. For the love, support and advice they have given. Im also grateful for all that Johns parents and my parents have done.
We still need prayers that John will soon be able to find a job and I know he will and that it will be one that will make him happy and that he can move up in.
One BIG lesson I learned was when you get a prompting from Heavenly Father to do something DO IT!
Friday, February 15, 2013
Can It Stop Already?
I can honestly say that when we made the prayerful decision 7 months ago for John to have major knee surgery that we had no idea the events that would follow. While neither of us wants to relive the past few months we are grateful for the lessons we have learned, for the many blessings we have received, and for the fact that we are stronger as both individuals and as a couple. There have been many sacrifices which we keep to ourselves. We have also learned to be more humble and be willing to ask for help from others. For this I am grateful.
The downside is we have learned who amongst our friends truly cares enough to ask us how we are doing. To ask do we need anything? And more simply to say hey we are keeping you in our prayers. To those individuals you know who you are I want to say thank you!
This past week has emotionally drained me and John both. There have been many tears shed, feelings of being a failure, of being terrified to get a job where knew things will be learned and failing at them. Theres so much more that is so very personal that I won't share publicly. If you want to know you know how to contact me and you can ask and I might share. Lets just say I have learned a lot and some of what I have learned about people has made me sad and I again will be careful as to who I trust..
I will end with this...Im done with this trial. Can it just Stop Already?
The downside is we have learned who amongst our friends truly cares enough to ask us how we are doing. To ask do we need anything? And more simply to say hey we are keeping you in our prayers. To those individuals you know who you are I want to say thank you!
This past week has emotionally drained me and John both. There have been many tears shed, feelings of being a failure, of being terrified to get a job where knew things will be learned and failing at them. Theres so much more that is so very personal that I won't share publicly. If you want to know you know how to contact me and you can ask and I might share. Lets just say I have learned a lot and some of what I have learned about people has made me sad and I again will be careful as to who I trust..
I will end with this...Im done with this trial. Can it just Stop Already?
Monday, January 28, 2013
The Laundry Room
I have been meaning to write this post for a week now but I keep getting sidetracked. We finally finished the laundry room and we LOVE it! It's been a room in progress since before John and I met and got married. I have counter space to fold laundry, a built in ironing board, a rack to hang up my brooms and mops, storage space for everything including food storage. The only thing it doesn't have is my dream washer and dryer but those will wait till they become a need instead of a want.
I hope the pictures are self explanatory. We have spent just over $100 to finish it because we had almost everything we needed. Yes we went with carpet tiles which someone already fave me crap about. I will just say this. This room is in the garage And its not heated so thus carpet :)
I hope the pictures are self explanatory. We have spent just over $100 to finish it because we had almost everything we needed. Yes we went with carpet tiles which someone already fave me crap about. I will just say this. This room is in the garage And its not heated so thus carpet :)
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Changes Changes Changes.
For those of you who have been to my house you know about my lack of counter space amd my wonderful unfinished laundry room. Well since John is out of work we decided to finish the laundry room. We have been working on it off and on since we got married. However the end is if ally in sight. Another project on our list is to update our kitchen. While we aren't finishing it at this time we did finally put in the base cabinet that has been moved from the garage to the laundry room and finally into the kitchen. For now we are using a sheet of MDF that we had in the garage for a temporary counter until we can find one at habitat for humanity. Eventually we are going to refinish all the counters but that's being saved for later. I'm so excited to have the extra cabinet space. It has allowed me to put stuff away and finally have enough prep room. This has been a long time comming and I'm super excited for how it looks now and how it's going to look when it's all done. Here are the pictures of the kitchen.
Monday, December 17, 2012
Is there a Positive side to Unemployement?
Yes you read that right. John lost his job Friday. While the specifics aren't important, and well to be honest we are just tired of talking about it and dwelling on it. Today we decided to start to compile a list of the good things about John losing his job when he did. So heres what we have so far
1. He gets to grow his goatee back :) If you know anything about me you know I LOVE when he grows facial hair. No job at UPS means he can grow it back.
2. He will get to attend ALL three hours of Church on the Sunday before Christmas. Whats even better is we invited his parents to come watch the program in Sacrament meeting which John and I are both participating in. Im excited because the program will be really good and is inspired. I told the sister who asked us to participate that she was inspired. I feel like Heavenly Father knew this was going to happen and wanted us to really live the spiritual side of this holiday season.
3. John doesn't have to work 16 days straight 12-14 hours each day until all hours of the night in the nasty weather.
4. We get to spend the entire holiday season together for the first time since we got married.
5. Not going to bed alone waiting for him to get home.
6. Being able to remember the true meaning of Christmas. Its not about the gifts. This is only something you really get when you make the conscious decision to not buy gifts for each other but instead others, and really putting thought into those gifts.
7. John being able to allow his knee more time to heal. One of the issues we have had since October with both the Insurance company and UPS is them wanting him to return to work before both he and the doctor felt he should. We noticed tonight that all of the swelling has gone down in his knee and you can actually feel his kneecap.
Im sure we will think of more later. We have been truly blessed in many small ways. It has testified to us that Heavenly Father is looking out for us. Bills that should have been higher were significantly lower, and we found cheaper insurance than COBRA that we may go with if everything works out. We ask for continual prayers that we are able to find job or jobs (if its Heavenly Fathers will) that will allow us to meet the goals we have as a family.
One last note.. Its REALLY Ok for you to no longer use UPS. :)
1. He gets to grow his goatee back :) If you know anything about me you know I LOVE when he grows facial hair. No job at UPS means he can grow it back.
2. He will get to attend ALL three hours of Church on the Sunday before Christmas. Whats even better is we invited his parents to come watch the program in Sacrament meeting which John and I are both participating in. Im excited because the program will be really good and is inspired. I told the sister who asked us to participate that she was inspired. I feel like Heavenly Father knew this was going to happen and wanted us to really live the spiritual side of this holiday season.
3. John doesn't have to work 16 days straight 12-14 hours each day until all hours of the night in the nasty weather.
4. We get to spend the entire holiday season together for the first time since we got married.
5. Not going to bed alone waiting for him to get home.
6. Being able to remember the true meaning of Christmas. Its not about the gifts. This is only something you really get when you make the conscious decision to not buy gifts for each other but instead others, and really putting thought into those gifts.
7. John being able to allow his knee more time to heal. One of the issues we have had since October with both the Insurance company and UPS is them wanting him to return to work before both he and the doctor felt he should. We noticed tonight that all of the swelling has gone down in his knee and you can actually feel his kneecap.
Im sure we will think of more later. We have been truly blessed in many small ways. It has testified to us that Heavenly Father is looking out for us. Bills that should have been higher were significantly lower, and we found cheaper insurance than COBRA that we may go with if everything works out. We ask for continual prayers that we are able to find job or jobs (if its Heavenly Fathers will) that will allow us to meet the goals we have as a family.
One last note.. Its REALLY Ok for you to no longer use UPS. :)
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Peace
With everything we have going on right now, one thing I was not expecting was the results of the Presidential election. I along with many other Americans was truly heartbroken that our current President won re-election. I only say this so you can kind of get a glimpse into my current state of mind. I should also back up a year and say that ever since TOFW came to Reno last year and I knew it was scheduled to be in Sacramento, CA this year I was determined to go. Fast forward a year and as I have stated before John had knee replacement surgery at the end of July. I had talked to a friend a couple of months before that about having her go with me and thought it was all set. Well when I contacted her in August before I bought my tickets to go, I found out that she would not be able to attend. I was crushed. Especially since I didn't feel comfortable with driving over the hill to a city I really don't know that well to go to this event by my self so I decided not to go. I was really bummed but figured life goes on and there is always next year.
Right at the time that our fight with the insurance company began I found out that TOFW leaders had decided to do a live stream of the Salt Lake City event over the internet. And the Best part was it was for free. No I wouldn't get one of the nifty tote bags but it was the spirit of the speakers messages and the music that I was really wanting. Well I was lazy I admit and didn't make it a priority and missed out. I found out Monday morning that they decided to put it up for two more days and I knew that this was Heavenly Fathers way of saying I gave you one chance and you screwed up but because I love you and because you are a faithful daughter, Im giving you this second chance to hear what I need you to hear. So I told John I needed to do this and he agreed.
As the election results began to come in I knew what was going to happen so I turned off the TV and turned on my computer and began to listen and watch. And I watched all day today in between doing my daily must dos around the house. As John and I sat and talked late this evening we both said that for tonight at least in this small moment we feel peace in our home.
I have a testimony that our Heavenly Father does know each and every one of us and what we are going through and if we turn to him for comfort he does hear and will help us. While I know we have to have faith and be patient its hard to remember that the results we are waiting for are truly in the Lords time and not ours. While we don't know what will happen I am grateful for an amazing husband who has made it a point to have a substantial savings that can get us through for a couple of months if we are careful. Im also grateful we have food storage that so far has fed us with the exception of a couple of items we have had to purchase. Im also grateful for a father who was inspired to send an email out this morning to offer fatherly/brotherly advice..
Right at the time that our fight with the insurance company began I found out that TOFW leaders had decided to do a live stream of the Salt Lake City event over the internet. And the Best part was it was for free. No I wouldn't get one of the nifty tote bags but it was the spirit of the speakers messages and the music that I was really wanting. Well I was lazy I admit and didn't make it a priority and missed out. I found out Monday morning that they decided to put it up for two more days and I knew that this was Heavenly Fathers way of saying I gave you one chance and you screwed up but because I love you and because you are a faithful daughter, Im giving you this second chance to hear what I need you to hear. So I told John I needed to do this and he agreed.
As the election results began to come in I knew what was going to happen so I turned off the TV and turned on my computer and began to listen and watch. And I watched all day today in between doing my daily must dos around the house. As John and I sat and talked late this evening we both said that for tonight at least in this small moment we feel peace in our home.
I have a testimony that our Heavenly Father does know each and every one of us and what we are going through and if we turn to him for comfort he does hear and will help us. While I know we have to have faith and be patient its hard to remember that the results we are waiting for are truly in the Lords time and not ours. While we don't know what will happen I am grateful for an amazing husband who has made it a point to have a substantial savings that can get us through for a couple of months if we are careful. Im also grateful we have food storage that so far has fed us with the exception of a couple of items we have had to purchase. Im also grateful for a father who was inspired to send an email out this morning to offer fatherly/brotherly advice..
Monday, November 5, 2012
Prayers
Without going into a lot of detail, we are asking for prayers in our behalf that Johns job situation gets resolved soon. Whether that be a new job or having the dispute with the disability resolved. This has been one of the most difficult trials we have faced, but we are grateful for the law of tithing and that we have savings to fall back on. I promise to give more information after this is all settled.
The newest member of our family
Meet Selena. Shes a Chihuahua/Mini Pin mix that weighs 8 pounds. She is very tiny but is full of energy which keeps Sophi active. She also has one of the sweetest personalities and is very loving. Shes not a super yippy dog that most Chihuahua's are which is nice. John and I had talked a lot about getting a second dog and had looked. We thought we had one we were going to meet but the organization who had her didn't make it convenient to see her. Then he found one dog named Ferguson who was similar to Sophi's breed but when we introduced the two of them the day after we met him we just didn't feel right about the match. That may not make sense but its the only way I can describe it. We talked to the volunteers and they suggested Selena. John bent over into the pen she was in and picked her up, then we walked the two girls and we just knew. So we adopted her. Having two dogs is a lot of work especially since Selena is an early riser to go out and do her business. She has her schedule which is go outside then come in and eat then play or sun her self then nap. That means that no matter how little sleep I got I'm up for the day. Could this possibly be preparing me for parenthood? Who knows and before anyone assumes anything no I'm not making any kind of announcement about any little Zinnicks running around. LOL.
The only problem we have with her is that she is so small she fits through the slats on our fence. She does however listen and comes back when we call her. She's been a blessing to us at this time in our lives as we are facing some trials. We are so grateful we could give her a home. We strongly encourage anyone considering getting a pet to look at your local shelters because there are dogs and cats for any personalities. Selena is a perfect example. We were told she was a stray but after getting her home have found that she is housebroken and comes when shes called. So theres our plug for adopting pets. So far we are two for two
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
3 Years
Today we celebrated our three year anniversary. My day didn't start out very well. I dropped my ipod that I have had since before I got married in the toilette (long story don't ask) at 5:30 am. I did my usual worry session which meant I didn't go back to sleep, remembered the rice trick did that and tried to sleep. Finally it was time to get up and shower so I could go to my WW meeting. I got up went to my meeting and was down again this week. The meeting was great. I have a great support group every Tuesday and they really are becoming my friends.
This afternoon we went to the temple. About three weeks ago my friend Marie who joined the church a year ago told me she and her husband were going through the temple and being sealed today. When I told her it was our anniversary she had a look on her face that was priceless. I told her I was honored and that we would be there. It was the perfect way to celebrate our anniversary this year. With all the challenges we have had regarding the future and other things, it was nice to be reminded of the covenants we made three years ago. After the Temple we went to dinner at a local Italian place. It was the perfect end to a great day! Neither of us can believe its only been three years because it feels like we have been together for much much longer and yes in a good way.
This afternoon we went to the temple. About three weeks ago my friend Marie who joined the church a year ago told me she and her husband were going through the temple and being sealed today. When I told her it was our anniversary she had a look on her face that was priceless. I told her I was honored and that we would be there. It was the perfect way to celebrate our anniversary this year. With all the challenges we have had regarding the future and other things, it was nice to be reminded of the covenants we made three years ago. After the Temple we went to dinner at a local Italian place. It was the perfect end to a great day! Neither of us can believe its only been three years because it feels like we have been together for much much longer and yes in a good way.
Monday, October 15, 2012
Johns new toy
Ever since John had his surgery and probably before that, he's been looking to get a larger Lathe. The one he had works fine but it doesn't work to make larger projects. Well a couple of weeks ago he finally found one he liked that didn't cost an arm and a leg. Well today it came. He was like a kid in a candy store after he got it all set up. The only problem? He didn't have anything to make today. I will try to post pictures soon. So what did he do in the mean time? He tore down the rain gutters from over our garage, and painted the trim. We are going to replace them ourselves because its a short span and we don't feel like spending $500 to have someone do it when we can do it ourselves.
The other thing he's been working on is my Laundry hamper. Its being made out of wood we either had, my father in law had or we bought from the Habitat for Humanity store. Im super excited. All he has left is the lid and to paint it. it will be nice to be able to hide my laundry. We have also cleaned out our side shed. Its so nice to know what we have and where it is especially since our camping and emergency stuff is out there.
Theres lots of little projects being done. We know Heavenly Father has a plan as far as his job goes whether thats with UPS or another company has yet to be seen.
The other thing he's been working on is my Laundry hamper. Its being made out of wood we either had, my father in law had or we bought from the Habitat for Humanity store. Im super excited. All he has left is the lid and to paint it. it will be nice to be able to hide my laundry. We have also cleaned out our side shed. Its so nice to know what we have and where it is especially since our camping and emergency stuff is out there.
Theres lots of little projects being done. We know Heavenly Father has a plan as far as his job goes whether thats with UPS or another company has yet to be seen.
Monday, October 8, 2012
Busy Summer and more
We have had a busy few months. In June we made a trip to Utah to attend my nieces blessing. It was so nice to see my parents and two of my siblings. I wish we lived closer to one another so we could spend more time together. We were also able to see a few Aunts and Uncles that I haven't seen since we got married.
Two or so weeks later we hosted my families first family reunion. While it wasn't perfect, I'm hopeful that as we keep having them we will in time slowly create a reunion we ALL look foreword to attending. I was disappointed that some chose to leave before they could really see what Reno has to offer. I'm sorry if this offends some but this blog is a place for me to be honest about my feelings.
A month late, John had his knee replacement surgery. One thing I have learned is that when a family is going through a medical challenge it
Affects not only the sick person but the rest of the immediate family. I was criticized because it took me longer than one day to get caught up on my housework. All I can say is when I'm faced with one of the worst arthritis flare ups i have had since I got married that I will get stuff done it just might take me a while. So until you have been in my shoes don't criticize. Anyway getting back on track his surgery went well. He was in the hospital from Tuesday till Friday afternoon. He has done an amazing job with his PT and has been going to the gym as well. The therapist said he may be going too hard and that he may need to back off a bit. Not something he wanted to hear but we will do what we have to. He is out on disability until the beginning of December and it looks like he may stay out until January. He doesn't want to go back to work and reinjure himself. One thing I learned through all this is I know who to rely on when I need help, and my ward won't offer sad but true.
The rest of the summer has been spent focusing on getting John better. Doctors visits therapy making sure the house stays together. So that's our summer.
I have been working on trying to read the Book Of Mormon. I am doing a program 42 days to Christ and while its taken me longer than 42 days its one of the most amazing things I have done for myself. I also decided to really read the conference talks from the last conference and then the one we Just had when they come out. In a
Talk by Boyd K Packer he made a statement that brought comfort to my soul. He said while telling the story of a young couple he was talking to ," at least you want children, and that desire will weigh heavily in your favor I. Your earthly lives and beyond because it will provide spiritual and emotional stability. Ultimately, you will be much better off because you wanted children and could not have them, as compared to those who could but would not have children." I realized that I'm ok. I'm not going to be punished if despite all my efforts I'm unable to be a parent.
So that's what's going on with us. We love and miss all our friends and family.
Two or so weeks later we hosted my families first family reunion. While it wasn't perfect, I'm hopeful that as we keep having them we will in time slowly create a reunion we ALL look foreword to attending. I was disappointed that some chose to leave before they could really see what Reno has to offer. I'm sorry if this offends some but this blog is a place for me to be honest about my feelings.
A month late, John had his knee replacement surgery. One thing I have learned is that when a family is going through a medical challenge it
Affects not only the sick person but the rest of the immediate family. I was criticized because it took me longer than one day to get caught up on my housework. All I can say is when I'm faced with one of the worst arthritis flare ups i have had since I got married that I will get stuff done it just might take me a while. So until you have been in my shoes don't criticize. Anyway getting back on track his surgery went well. He was in the hospital from Tuesday till Friday afternoon. He has done an amazing job with his PT and has been going to the gym as well. The therapist said he may be going too hard and that he may need to back off a bit. Not something he wanted to hear but we will do what we have to. He is out on disability until the beginning of December and it looks like he may stay out until January. He doesn't want to go back to work and reinjure himself. One thing I learned through all this is I know who to rely on when I need help, and my ward won't offer sad but true.
The rest of the summer has been spent focusing on getting John better. Doctors visits therapy making sure the house stays together. So that's our summer.
I have been working on trying to read the Book Of Mormon. I am doing a program 42 days to Christ and while its taken me longer than 42 days its one of the most amazing things I have done for myself. I also decided to really read the conference talks from the last conference and then the one we Just had when they come out. In a
Talk by Boyd K Packer he made a statement that brought comfort to my soul. He said while telling the story of a young couple he was talking to ," at least you want children, and that desire will weigh heavily in your favor I. Your earthly lives and beyond because it will provide spiritual and emotional stability. Ultimately, you will be much better off because you wanted children and could not have them, as compared to those who could but would not have children." I realized that I'm ok. I'm not going to be punished if despite all my efforts I'm unable to be a parent.
So that's what's going on with us. We love and miss all our friends and family.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
My First Quilt
Some of you may already know that one of my new hobbies that I have begun to love since moving here to the Reno are is quilting. I joined a quilt group that was going on in my ward as a way to get to know other women and meet new friends. I have started three quilts, finished one top thats ready to be basted and quilted and then I started this pumpkin quilt. Its very small and I thought it would be a great one to do before I started quilting the big one that I have. Thanks to my friends Melanie and Summer I was able to finish it. Summer was a huge help getting me started on the quilting and basting. My friend Brenda helped with the batting and got me started on this new passion of mine. Im so grateful for all the help I was given with this. Its not perfect but Im so excited its finished.
Friday, June 1, 2012
Finally an Update
I know I know, its been way too long since I wrote an update. I have been trying to do one for over a month, but I was hoping my wonderful husband would upload the pictures from our cruise so I could share. However that hasn't happened yet because well life has been a bit crazy and stressful for us.
At the end of April-first week of May we went on a Pacific cruise that took us from Los Angeles to Vancouver BC. We got a great deal and well we needed a vacation from everything. Phones Internet ect. John actually needed it more than I did but the time away was good for us both. We had a fantastic time. The weather was so so. It rained the day before we got to Astoria, OR and the day we were there and the day after. But we didn't let that ruin our vacation. We stopped in Astoria OR, Victoria BC, Nainamo BC and Vancouver. We decided that we could go back to the first three but Vancouver we are so so about. I would like to go back simply so John can see the Vancouver BC Temple. I was blessed to be able to see it when my cousin went through for the first time and its a beautiful building. In Victoria we went to the Buchart (Im pretty sure I just spelled that wrong) Gardens and they are AMAZING. We were there for an hour and 45 minutes and honestly I could have spent the whole day there. John agrees. He was in total Heaven with his camera. So maybe a trip for a long weekend back to Victoria is in our future. In Nainamo we had the most amazing fish and chips. On the bus ride from the port to town, we were told there was a great small shack that was right on the water that had the best fish. Oh man was he right. John had the actual fish and chips. I had a Halibut Sandwich on a whole wheat bun. It was delicious. No breading and the cajun marinade was just right. They don't salt there fries which I realized I actually like them that way. It made the day. So our advice to you is if you are ever in Nainamo BC go find the fish place. I don't remember the name of it off hand but will post a picture with the name as soon as I get john to send it to me.
The other goings on include me no longer being in Primary. It was hard at first but I realized afterword that my job is to do my best to fellowship a few sisters in our ward that feel the same way I do. One of them is a new convert and she was become a good friend. We also decided that we need to go to the Gospel Principles class to help teach the new members. We went one Sunday for reasons i won't get into here and John said we need to keep going to this class. Its been rewarding and I feel like its helping me to build up courage to more freely share the gospel and to be able to share it more with Johns parents.
The other big news is that after much prayerful consideration, lots of discussion and visits with the doctor. John has decided to go ahead and have a Total Knee replacement on his right knee. He has been living with pain off and on for several years, however its become worse in the last year. In November he was referred to an Orthopedic Surgeon. The doctor who is amazing told him that he had two options. 1. Do nothing or 2 have the surgery. He told us John would know when the time was and when he was to come back. Several months later we are moving foreword. We don't have an exact surgery date yet but more than likely it will be the first part of June so that we can fully enjoy my families family reunion. There are lots of unknowns in all this but one thing I do know is that my Father in Heaven is aware of us. He knows what is best for us and if we put our faith in him he will take care of us and lead us in the direction that will help us be closer to him.
At the end of April-first week of May we went on a Pacific cruise that took us from Los Angeles to Vancouver BC. We got a great deal and well we needed a vacation from everything. Phones Internet ect. John actually needed it more than I did but the time away was good for us both. We had a fantastic time. The weather was so so. It rained the day before we got to Astoria, OR and the day we were there and the day after. But we didn't let that ruin our vacation. We stopped in Astoria OR, Victoria BC, Nainamo BC and Vancouver. We decided that we could go back to the first three but Vancouver we are so so about. I would like to go back simply so John can see the Vancouver BC Temple. I was blessed to be able to see it when my cousin went through for the first time and its a beautiful building. In Victoria we went to the Buchart (Im pretty sure I just spelled that wrong) Gardens and they are AMAZING. We were there for an hour and 45 minutes and honestly I could have spent the whole day there. John agrees. He was in total Heaven with his camera. So maybe a trip for a long weekend back to Victoria is in our future. In Nainamo we had the most amazing fish and chips. On the bus ride from the port to town, we were told there was a great small shack that was right on the water that had the best fish. Oh man was he right. John had the actual fish and chips. I had a Halibut Sandwich on a whole wheat bun. It was delicious. No breading and the cajun marinade was just right. They don't salt there fries which I realized I actually like them that way. It made the day. So our advice to you is if you are ever in Nainamo BC go find the fish place. I don't remember the name of it off hand but will post a picture with the name as soon as I get john to send it to me.
The other goings on include me no longer being in Primary. It was hard at first but I realized afterword that my job is to do my best to fellowship a few sisters in our ward that feel the same way I do. One of them is a new convert and she was become a good friend. We also decided that we need to go to the Gospel Principles class to help teach the new members. We went one Sunday for reasons i won't get into here and John said we need to keep going to this class. Its been rewarding and I feel like its helping me to build up courage to more freely share the gospel and to be able to share it more with Johns parents.
The other big news is that after much prayerful consideration, lots of discussion and visits with the doctor. John has decided to go ahead and have a Total Knee replacement on his right knee. He has been living with pain off and on for several years, however its become worse in the last year. In November he was referred to an Orthopedic Surgeon. The doctor who is amazing told him that he had two options. 1. Do nothing or 2 have the surgery. He told us John would know when the time was and when he was to come back. Several months later we are moving foreword. We don't have an exact surgery date yet but more than likely it will be the first part of June so that we can fully enjoy my families family reunion. There are lots of unknowns in all this but one thing I do know is that my Father in Heaven is aware of us. He knows what is best for us and if we put our faith in him he will take care of us and lead us in the direction that will help us be closer to him.
Monday, March 19, 2012
Sophi
John and I were talking the other night with his parents and we discovered that our wonderful Sophi is more of a protector than we realized. Ever since I got sick, in order to prevent John from getting the crud I had we slept in separate beds. Anyway I realized that when Sophi slept in the room with me either in our bed or in her bed, while she may look like she was asleep she was actually awake most of the night. I was telling John and his parents this and John made the statement that when she slept with him she was out cold all night. Thats when we realized that Sophi really looks out for me. She is constantly on guard, and when Johns not in the room she watches out for me. She may only weight 18lbs, but she is loyal and very protective and Im so glad she's part of our family.
Monday, March 5, 2012
37
I didn't think that this birthday would be as hard for me as it was. I guess being that much closer to 40 was harder than I thought. I am hoping that this next year is full of accomplishing some or all of the goals that I have. We shall see.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Had to share
Several months ago I bought President Thomas S. Monsons' biography for my Kindle. For those of you who are not of my faith he is the the president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Anyway, in the last couple of months I really put forth the effort to read the book. I found that if I did it while on the treadmill at the gym that my workout went better and I had a calmer spirit.
I have always loved this man and have known how wonderful he was, but after reading the book I have come away with a true testimony that if each of us tried to live our lives in even the smallest way that this world would be a much better place. He truly loves everyone and uses kindness and charity to others to teach simple lessons. I learned that if we love someone we are more likely to help produce change than if we are domineering and forceful. I honestly believe that these lessons apply no matter what your religious beliefs are. So my challenge to all of you out there is to show a little more compassion and love to those around you this week and see what happens.
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