I Just Love These People!

CHRISTMAS TREE

2011-11-28T23:06:00.000-07:00

Well, I didn't get very far with my graditude posts this month did I! Bummer! I am indeed grateful for so so so many things. I was going to continue with some of my favorite yet simple graditude things and wind it up with my home, my job, my friends, my family and my testimony! So there is a brief summary of some of my most important things.

One of my other favorite things is CHRISTMAS, and tonight up went the Christmas Tree! Last year Cassie was the only child home to help decorate with a friend. Tonight we had three of our kids and two friends! It was so fun! I love, love, love Christmas! I hope I can truly enjoy it like I want to and not stress and worry about the financial end of it this year. After all that isn't really what it is all about! Family, Friends & Fun and remembering the miraculous birth of our Savior and his exemplar life..... that is CHRISTMAS!

Graditude is an Attitude

2011-11-04T22:11:00.001-07:00

It really is an attitude isn't it! We can find a million things to be grateful for if we just look! We can find a million things to disappoint us if we look too, so which one is better! Unfortunately, I too often find the "disappoint" things and have to remind myself there are far more of the happy things. Just look around, big things and small things. Years ago for Family Home Evening we started the "Gratitude Journals" with our kids, inspired by Oprah Winfrey. I resently found mine and found it so fun to read what I was grateful for, years ago, big and small. Some of the "small things" I had listed were, strawberries, singing, something to laugh about, etc. Well guess what I have been thinking about again, since November hit.... "What am I grateful for?" I love when these thoughts slap me in the face and I begin to reflect about what is really important and how many things I have that make me happy and I am thankful for. So here begins my reflections for November!

#1 - I am thankful for the weather! Haven't the days beautiful! Not too hot, not too cold! I love it! I love when the nights are crispy and sweaters are on, and the days are nice enough not to be too hot and be comfortable. You can just feel the cold weather upon us and winter approaching! The joy of the holidays starting to fill the air! I love it!

#2 - I am thankful for airplanes! Sam and Brie live way too far away. They were needing a visit from Mom and Dad and frankly Mom and Dad were needing some time with out "far away" kids. So we boarded a plane and headed to Massechusetts. If it weren't for planes, who could take off 2 weeks of work to drive that far, spend a little time, and drive back home. Makes a person extremely tired to think about that plan. Instead, get on a plane, get there in a few hours, spend some quality time with some terrific grown-up kids, and then get on a plane and get back home and get to work. Yes, I am thankful for airplanes.

#3 - I am thankful for jewelry! How about that! Ü I have always loved jewelry, just cheap, fun jewelry. I don't neccessarily need the diamonds and gold, just cheap (ok, what girl wouldn't love the diamonds and gold at least a little bit, but maybe in the next life, ha ha ha) I do like necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings, watches, I like different colors and styles, some simple, some flashy, some colorful, some plain.... just a great variety. (Not my ring but itsn't it pretty)

#4 - I am thankful for SHELLAC! Yes, shellac nails! I love when Cassie has time and shellacs my nails, fingernails and toenails! They just make a girl feel pretty. I love french tip, but I also love colors! Glitter toes are especially fun, but now that it is getting colder, I don't know that you will see as much of my toes! Ok, so these are my nails, but you get the idea, LOL.

A New Life

2011-02-06T00:17:00.001-07:00

Although you may have all seen this many times and it is from last year or even the year before, I love it and wanted to share! "I am NOT my body". I love that she says that! She is awesome as well as her husband!

SANTA'S WORKSHOP

2010-10-19T07:04:00.001-07:00

“Christmas Giving”… the fun way. Come to our craft day and create and craft with friends old and new. Take time to create gifts for others or how about just a little something for yourself. Come on out and mingle with the girls for some giggling and good times. Please register right away so we can be planning on YOU! Registration (and $) is due, Friday, October 29th. Here is a list of projects we will be preparing for that day:

WHEN: Sat., Nov. 13th
WHERE: New Life City Church – 3754 S. Hwy. 191 (across from the fairgrounds)
TIME: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Projects will be offered at anytime throughout the event so come when you can, but be sure to allow yourself enough time, as some projects will take longer than others. We will begin cleaning up and wrapping it up about 5:00.

(1) Flower Headbands – Create these cute flowers and attach to a headband. The girls are going wild for these. Great stocking stuffer, or friend gifts, etc. COST - $2 or 3 for $5

(2) Pendants – Jewelry is all the rage. Create 4 necklaces, you choose colors from what’s available. You will have plenty of Liquid Glass to go home and create more. COST - $12

(3) Treasure/Jewelry/Trinket/Recipe Box - As you can see from the title, this box can be used for a multiple of things. What else can you think of? Great gift box even. COST - $12

(4) Gift Cards and Nugget Box - Make four 3X3 cards (envelopes included), package them with nuggets of chocolate(and who doesn't love a little bit of chocolate?) and you have a great little gift You choose from “Mistletoe” or “Magnifique” Papers. COST - $5

(5) Designer Christmas Cards – Create 12 cards (4 each of 3 different designs) using the October Stamp of the Month. These designs use new clear and circle cards… what a hit they will be when you give them. Plus, learn a new coloring technique… watercolor.(Ask about adding on the Stamp Set - could get it at a discount or for free) COST - $20

(6) Mix & Mingle Banner – Create this wall hanging with one side to decorate for Fall and the other side to decorate for Winter. Adorable! Don’t you need to make one of these for everyone? COST – $15

(7) Mini Scrapbook – Create a cute little scrapbook for everyone on your shopping list. Choose any available Level 1 Kit. Depending on which kit you choose, you could have a Christmas Book, a Thankful Book, a Birthday Book, a Baby Book, etc. COST - $20

(8) Family Photo Décor – Wouldn’t everyone want this great way to display their family picture on their wall? This 16X20 wall board displays an 8X10 picture. Will say “Families are Forever” or can be personalized with your family name. (must be given when ordered) COST $25

Leave a comment or contact me for more information! karenstamps@myctmh.com

Going Out for Some Fun Business - CTMH Style

2010-07-24T14:42:00.003-07:00

Calling all "Former Clubbers", "Past Hostesses", "Past Party Guests", "Wanna-bees" and "Hope-to-bees",

I MISS YOU!

Have you been missing a "Girl's Night Out"? Do you need an opportunity to meet up with friends at least once a month and laugh and giggle, solve all the world's problems (ha ha ha) and create? Do you just need some time talking to adults? Do you need a fun break from the daily grind of work, house work, and everything else? Do you have lot of pictures that you want to put neatly into scrapbooks? Do you need some inspiration? How about making cards or having a craft night? Do you not feel creative and would like some help? If any of these sound even a the slightest bit good to you, let's make a plan!!!

August 19th - Scrapbooking Club - $20.50 for "Simple Kit" (needs to be collected right away so I can get projects ordered)

Starting Thursday the 19th and then continuing on the 2nd Thursday of each month following, I will again begin my Scrapbooking Club! Each month someone will hostess and earn free product. Each month you will purchase a minimum amount of product which could include one of the Three Kits (3 kits are different price points, "Simple", "Basic" & "Better") we will use the following month. This will be tons of fun as we create, inspire each other, have a night to look forward to with the girls, look forward to our own hostess month, and get some scrapbooking done. You don't have to be experienced or even consider yourself creative or an expert, just come and we will all help each other out. We will discuss the details further at the first club night but I would be willing to answer any questions you may have in the meantime too. Let me know if I should plan on you! I am also wanting to offer a morning class this same day, if I can get enough on board for that. Also, I would like to do a class in Pima on another evening, if I can get enough interest.

August 17th - Card and Crafts Club - $20 (needs to be collected right away so I can get projects ordered)

Starting Tuesday the 17th and then continuing on the 2nd Tuesday of each month following, I will again begin my Cards and Crafts Club! Each month someone will hostess and earn free product. Each month you will purchase a minimum amount of product which could include the Kit we will use the following month. This will be tons of fun as we create, inspire each other, have a night to look forward to with the girls, look forward to our own hostess month, and get some cardmaking and crafting done. You don't have to be experienced or even consider yourself creative or an expert, just come and we will all help each other out. We will discuss the details further at the first club night but I would be willing to answer any questions you may have in the meantime too.

August 26th - New Catalog Kick-off Party - FREE

That's right, a new catalog for the Fall/Winter season is just around the corner. Come celebrate this new season of scrapbooking, stamping and papercrafting by seeing the new products and seeing what is on the schedule for this Fall. Make a fun project and have fun! 10:00-Noon & then again from 7:00-9:00

Gatherings - Parties

I am really really wanting to start holding regular parties (demonstrations) like I used to. These are non-committment parties, meaning you be the hostess and get free stuff and are not committed to come each month unless you want to host again or go to a freinds party. THis is really a fun way to introduce your friends to scrapbooking or papercrafting and to just have a fun night. If you are interested in being one of my first hostesses as I venture back into this, YEAH!!!

_____________________________________

I would love love love to see some of my old stamping friends get started again. I have missed you! It is just such a fun way to stay connected while accomplishing something. We all get so busy with our lives and sometimes it's just awesome to reconnect with old friends and build new friendships and just have fun!

If you have made it all the way to the end of this email, HORRAY for you.... this is where I talk about PRIZES!!!

If you join one of my clubs... you will get a accesory sampling gift when you come to the first meeting in August, plus a sneak preview of the new catalog to be released September 1st.

If you bring a friend along (that's new to this with me) and she joins the club too, you will get a Coupon toward your next club purchase (it would be a good idea just to let me know you are bringing a friend so I will have a project or her to do as well.)

If you decided to be one of my Party Hostesses (not to be confused with Club Hostess) you will be receiving something fun, stamped and created just for you.

If you just respond to the email in some postitive sort of way and let me know you received it and to keep sending you information, you will receive a free gift as well... one you will need to pick up either at an event or just come by.

If you don't live near enough to attend any of these things, please shop online at karenstamps@myctmh.com! Or Email me, we can talk about how you get a group together or you can do it whereever you are! Ü

If none of this fits into you life now, I'm sorry, but please pass this information along to a friend that may be interested. Also, we now have Studio J... our premiere online Scrapbook Studio, if you want to have more information about that I can help, it's FABULOUS!!!!

One last thing.... I HAVE TONS OF OLD IDEA BOOKS... they are just that 'great' "IDEA BOOKS". Some of the products are retired but, much of it, is still available, but besides that, you can scour the pages for inspiration and ideas. I would love to get these in you and your friends hands rather than sitting at my house in boxes. If you want to take a couple and share them, please let me know!

I so look forward to hearing from you! Please call me at 651-1217 or email me at this address karenstamps@myctmh.com, or you can find me on facebook.

Karen Scott

Close To My Heart Consultant

(928) 651-1217

Shop from home... in your PJs.. www.karenstamps.myctmh.com

See the latest CTMH TV project and video, view artwork, and check out what's going on on my calendar with workshop and events.

You interested in doing what I do... become a consultant for $99. Great training, online helps, teamwork, etc. Have FUN!!!! Look for details on my website under My Opportunities.

Let me show you how you can preserve today's memories ...

Faster, Simpler, and Easier.

Preserving memories... one scrapbook page at a time!

Zippidee Workshop!!!

2010-07-04T23:41:00.003-07:00

Well I haven't posted on here for awhile! But another Scrapbooking workshop is coming up along with another Card Workshop!

I don't have pictures of the actual projects, but here are a couple of teaser pictures of the paper/accessories we will be using for both of the Workshops!

*Scrapbooking will be July 27th @ 7:00 p.m. (ask me about the different price points, starting at $20)

*Card Workshop will be July 22nd @ 7:00 p.m. and the cost is $20.

I would love to have you come and bring your friends, but please comment here or give me a call or email me so I can get your products ordered and you can get me your $$$$ so I can do that!

Hope to hear from you real soon!

T-N-T - - - - It's Dynamite!

2010-03-01T14:48:00.006-07:00

This is my first "Tips & Tricks" video to share some CTMH tips! WOW, it was a little more difficult than I thought and then to try to learn how to use the editing and uploading program, LOL. Excuse the lack of professionalism in the videography and as an actress, and just learn a cool tip 'n trick for your scrapbooking and paper crafting. If you want more information and fun, plan to either host a gathering/party or attend one, just give me a call or leave me a comment! Ü

For some reason this video (which did work) won't now. Maybe it is my computer, but if you can't get it to view either, visit this link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z6lbtN47Z6s

Cassie - Gila Valley Idol Preliminary

2010-02-26T09:29:00.003-07:00

Cassie tried out last night for Gila Valley Idol... They choose 3 finalist from the preformances at each preliminary and sometimes choose a callback... (well they have done a callback each time I think but it isn't required) Anyway, Cassie was freaking out (not literally, LOL) last night before it. She didn't want to do it in the first place, it was too scary for her, but her voice teacher told her it would be a good experience. So he helped her sign up. I thought the "good experience" was enough and all, but she did get a call back. She did great and the judges gave pointers at the end... they told her that she killed it when she sang the chorus, but the beginning may have either been to low for her or she just started out a little less confident. She needed to choose a song that totally highlighted the strengths in her voice. So she is in the process of trying to figure out which song she will sing in 2 weeks at the last prelinimary at Gila Outdoor. And just for the record, like the song says...."Her momma IS her biggest fan!"

Scrapbooking Night (or Day)

2010-01-31T22:59:00.006-07:00

"TOPSTITCH" Scrapbooking Workshop

My February Scrapbook Kit has enough paper to make all 3 of these layouts,

see how much of them you can get done during scrapbook night

(or scrapbook day) this month.

Leave me a comment for more information or give me a call!

This is the featured layout..."Valentine Cookies"

Layout 2 "Believe"

Layout 3 "Cherish"

WHEN: Thursday, February 18th
TIME: 10:00 am or 7:00 pm
COST: There are several kit options - Basic, Better, Best
WHERE: My house
Do you have a friend that might like to come? Let me know!!!

Christmas PJs - favorite!

2009-12-30T03:01:00.005-07:00

One of my favorite things at Christmas is on Christmas Eve.... The PJ photo shoot! This year as usual I found myself sewing pajamas at the very last minute, we are talking Christmas Eve itself.... I told everyone, I would hem them later, but just get them on so we could take pictures. Sam came out with Brie's and said I had forgotten something on hers.... oh ya?.... just one of the inseams on her leg, LOL. Anyway, here is the outcome of the photo shoot.... love these pictures!

The whole bunch minus our missionary boy!

The Momma & Daddy

The boys

The girls

Brothers

Sisters

The mistletoe Ü

All I Want For Christmas..... Cassie's Choir Performance

2009-12-19T00:48:00.006-07:00

So this week was Cassie's Christmas Concert on Tuesday.... I knew she had a solo, but I didn't know that it was going to just blow me away! She did sooooo awesome! I didn't get a very good video of it :( But on Thursday evening they did a Dinner Show combined with the Foods Club at school as a fundraiser. She performed it again and this time I did get a good video of it. She did great once again, but I believe her first performance was the absolute BEST. I came home and told Brian, that she "Rocked my World Tonight" LOL! He wasn't able to go and see her until Thursday and that is what you get to see here, if you click on the play button! Ü

Ok, so this next video is of the Girl's Quartet. They are singing "Silver Bells". This was on the stage at the concert... I am realizing the sound and acoustics are so much better in the auditorium for the concert than the dinner show was, BUT, I sure could get a better picture of them at the Dinner Show. So this video, you don't really see their faces, just hear their beautiful voices Ü (And since you can't see their faces, Cassie is the second from the right.)

This next video is just a beautiful song... again, it is at the concert, so you don't see their faces very well, but the soloists are Tyler (who is in our ward and one of Cassie's really good friends, he's an awesome young man) and the other is Darienne (also a good friend of Cassie's as well as Jacob's, awesome young lady) This song is called "Born On This Day" (I think) and Rick Lunt wrote it... it is just so pretty.

Christmas Letter 2009

2009-12-11T16:37:00.009-07:00

Is it really this time of year.... REALLY? Every year I am going to "start early" and take the time to do ALL the things I want to do. One of those includes taking the time to write individually on each Christmas Card and ask you about your children, your jobs, your life.... well, lately it seems lucky if they even get out at all, because I have to handmake the cards you know Ü. Anyway, this year an electronic update is what you get, LOL.

Some people refer to these as "brag letters", well, I'm glad I have something to brag about, ha ha ha, but we truly have once again been blessed. That is the best part of doing a family letter is making me stop and think (whether I include it in the letter or not) about all the things that I am thankful for or that has happened to us the preceding year. This year is no different!

Cassie - My beautiful daughter...she turned that magical age this year and offcially got her driver's license. Unfortunately for her the car we had for her to drive isn't working and she is forced to share with me. Hopefully we will be able to get another car for her soon and she will be a little toooooo independent! She once again is in the show choir at school and this year she is also in the girl's choir and tried out again for Girl's Quartet and made it.! She is still excelling in her piano as well. This Fall she also got to start Cosmotology School. She is one busy girl but aside from the stress it sometimes brings, loves it all! We have constant reminders that inspite of her busyness, her health has to come first. She got a new insulin pump in August and really is doing well.

Jacob - Well, he is Elder Scott this year! He is serving in the Oregon Portland Mission. He left the end of May so has been out for 6 months already! He is absolutely loving serving the Lord and sharing his testimony. He has had some great companions and just barely got transfered to his 2nd area. He told me he wants to serve a mission forever he loves it so much. I reminded him that "Yes, you can be a missionary forever, but in May of 2011, you have to come home to your Momma and continue to serve!" He is truly such a great example and I love his enthusiasm for the work, for the gospel and just for life in general.

Aaron - He has had a kind of rough year and yet is really is doing so well. He moved back home with us in April and was officially a single man again in August. It wasn't what he wanted but it is what he got. By the time is was final he was ready though, to start rebuilding himself and his life. Well, he had already been working on himself but it was a lonely process, he had "zero" friends and basically was my little buddy all Summer long and he plugged away. By the time August got here he was ready to dive into the singles ward and find him some friends at the institute. He is the Ward Mission Leader in the Single's Branch and teaches one Sunday a month in Elder's Quorum. He works at Wal-Mart and it getting ready to move out with some roommates. He has lost about 40 pounds through all this and definately has a smile back on his face and a skip in his step. What do they say..."what does kill you will make you stronger!"

Sam & Brie - They had an adventurous year! They spent the Summer on an Intership in Washington D.C. Sam worked for the Smithsonian Museums. They had so much fun and they took the time to experience EVERYTHING they could while out there, including driving two different directions coming and going so that they crossed 26 state lines! WOW! When they got back, Brie returned to her job at "Peaks" Ice Skating Rink that she loves and Sam got a new job, another Intership, at the Draper Temple. Yes, his paying job, is working with the Facilities Manager in the Temple. What a nice clean, no foul language job. He really enjoys it. Sam has 2 or 3 semesters and he will be finished with BYU and ready to tackle life! Who knows where they will end up, but as for me, I'm crossing my fingers it will be close! PLEASE! They will be home for Christmas this year and I can hardly wait!

Brian - Business has been a little hard this year.... and because of that the Scott Appraisals office was moved home. That's right, Brian took over Jacob's bedroom. I call it the cave! He says he is surprised that he misses the noise of the traffic and when he needs to go the post office or something, it is a little farther drive, but it really hasn't been bad having him around. He is still Bishoping and still loving the interaction with the ward members, I know he will miss it terribly when it comes to an end.

Me - Well, what can I say, another year come and gone, life changes and twists and turns like you wouldn't expect, but, we still have each other, our family and some wonderful friends have made such an impact on our lives. I am still Stamping and Scrapbooking with Close To My Heart and it has been such a great outlet for me. I've been playing the piano in Primary for several years as well as Assistant Stake Camp Director and that is a BLAST! I don't know, but I don't think there is a better program in the church than Girl's Camp! Ü

One of our Favorite blessing this year has been to watch the temple raise from the ground to what we see now! We were able in February to go to the Ground Breaking Ceremony and we were able to watch them place the Moroni on the Spire and that was a wonderful event with the highway lined with cars of people just as excited as us. We look forward to being able to attend the Open House and the Dedication in the next few months and then to just "Attend" the temple! What a blessing!

In a troubled world, we are so grateful to know, what we know and have the Lord on our side, and to know that he is in charge! Brian always says, "Everything will be alright in the end, if it's not alright, then it's not the end." Hmmmm, Everything is alright and everything will be alright! We wish all of you a wonderful holiday season and a very very Merry Christmas!

Love,

The Scott's

Brian, Karen, Sam & Brie, Aaron, Elder Scott (Jacob) & Cassie

I am THANKFUL.....

2009-11-25T18:15:00.006-07:00

Sometimes in the midst of life, it is hard to remember all the many things that I have to be thankful for. I might tend to get caught up in the woes of life and forget just how lucky... no, not just lucky, but blessed I am.

Last year I posted something each day of November leading up to Thanksgiving and was going to repeat that again this year, but here I am on the eve of Thanksgiving without one single "thankful post". Instead I am going to make a list of 26 things that have blessed my life, 26 things that I am so grateful for (in no specific order) :

26) My home
25) Safford 7th Ward
24) My new calling - Primary Secretary
23) My Girl's Camp Calling (and girls camp in general)
22) My Nieces and Nephews
21) My Brothers and Sisters (including spouses, both of ours!)
20) My In-laws
19) My Parents
18) My Aunts and Uncles
17) My cousins
16) My Grandparents (I miss them)
15) Close To My Heart Scrapbooking (my fun little business)
14) Temples and specifically the Gila Valley Temple
13) The Gospel - The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
12) MISSIONARIES - especially in Oregon Portland Mission Ü
11) Spanish Food & Pizza
10) Friends
9) Modern Technology - Cell Phones, Computers
8) Piano - that I can play it (somewhat)
7) My Beautiful Baby Girl
6) My Handsome Elder
5) My Handsome Happy Middle Boy
4) My Handsome Oldest Boy
3) My Beautiful Daughter-in-law
2) My Wonderfully Handsome Eternal Companion (& Bishop Ü)
1) My Savior - The Atonement

OK, I felt myself needing to expound on each of those, but this is a list right, not a paragraph on each. I do see that I could keep going and going though and also that it is similar to last years list! Just for the fun of it, I want to list another list of 26 a little more simple fun things that I am thankful for:

26) Jingle Paper Pack (the colors just make me smile)
25) New Close To My Heart Catalog coming out (I get it on Monday!)

24) My Acrylix Stamps
23) Christmas Decorations
22) My Cricut (wish I had the Expressions, and also the Gypsy.)
21) Facebook - it is just fun to see and connect with old friends
20) Dr. Pepper - I need to get off this, but it does make me happy
19) Mail and Email from Oregon
18) Phone calls from Utah
17) Listening to my daughter playing the piano
16) The High School Choirs
15) A fun little Chicken laugh that I hear almost daily
14) Lots of colors of ribbon
13) Lemon Pudding
12) Sugar Cookies - Fruit Pizza
11) Ana Juana Salsa
10) My Microwave
9) Going for rides
8) Graph Paper (I know - weird - for paper craft projects)
7) Watches (like having all different kinds)
6) Salt & Pepper Shakers (my collection)
5) My Neck Pillow
4) Crafting
3) Biggest Loser (someday I am gonna be one Ü)
2) Driving in the Rain
1) Going to Wicked with my Boy

Happy Birthday AarBear!

2009-10-31T12:54:00.000-07:00

(Hmmmm, can't find a current picture, I'm gonna have to take one!!)

23!!!!! WOW, you are a big bubby! LOL! This year has been a tough year for my AarBear, but wow, has he pulled through it! I so admire his strength.... I can't believe what a difference he has made in the past several months.... He is working 2 jobs, he has lost 30 pounds and he sure has a big smile on his face these days. What a difference, positive encouragement and unconditional love can make! He's got that great spirit back and I just love it!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY BOY!!!

Happy Birthday SAMMY!!!

2009-10-17T12:36:00.001-07:00

October 17th was Sam's birthday! He is 26!!!! WOW, when did that happen, how could he be 26 when I am only 29? LOL! He is happily working, living and going to school in Orem/Provo. He is doing great and I am so proud of him and the choices he has made!!! He has drive and determination and he has a great work ethic..., he is gentle and kind and strong... he also is just plain 'ole cute and handsome! He and Brie are such a great compliment to one another and treat each other the way we should all treat each other!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY BOY!!!!!

SANTA'S WORKSHOP

2009-10-09T08:32:00.011-07:00

This will be our 4th Annual Santa's Workshop, that my friend Jody and I have hosted together, with Close To My Heart Projects, just right for gift giving. We have tones of fun doing it and look forward to it each year. This year especially with the hard hit the economy has taken I expect people will be looking for more homemade, less expensive gifts to gift and a homemade gift is always a great gift from the heart anyway.

WHEN: Saturday, November 7th

WHERE: Lexington Pines Club House - 1535 W. Thatcher Blvd.

TIME: 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Pre-registration and pre-pay by Wednesday, October 21st, is necessary for all the classes so we can have a kit ready and waiting for you when you arrive. Listed below are the projects offered:

JINGLE ALL SORTS ALBUM (Kit is $15 with an add-on option of an Accessory Kit for $9)

(inspired by Karen Pederson, created by Karen Scott)

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GRACE ALL SORTS ALBUM (Kit is $15 with an add-on option of an Accessory Kit for $9)

(Created by Karen Scott)

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FLIP TOP STATIONARY BOX (Kit is $10 with box and 8 cards and envelops)

(Created by Karen Scott)

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CADDY CUBE (Kit is $8)

(Created by Karen Scott)

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FLIP FLAP MINI ALBUM (Kit is $5 for any on of these mini books, with an add-on option of My Stickease for $5 - all of the albums shown have used the stickease)

(Inspired by Anna Jarnagin, Created by Jody Peck)

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CUPCAKES IN A BOX (Kit is $15)

(Inspired by Lisa Stenz, created by Jody Peck)

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CHRISTMAS CARD KEEPER BOX (Kit is $15)

(Inspired by Chris Green, Created by Jody Peck)

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CHRISTMAS CARDS (Kit is $20 - for 2 each of 10 designs)

(Inspired by Karen Pederson, Created by Jody Peck)

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CHRISTMAS CARDS (Kit is $15 - 2 each of 8 designs)

(Created by Jody Peck)

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Post-It-Note Holders (Kit is $3 each or 2 for $5)

(Created by Jody Peck)

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Out of Town Kits are available. Gather your friends together for a craft night. I will mail them out the week following our Santa's Workshop. If you gather a big group together, I may be willing to come down and teach it for you and your friends! Ü

You can find more information about these on my Close To My Heart Website....

http://www.karenstamps.myctmh.com/

Sam & Brie (part II)

2009-09-15T13:25:00.008-07:00

So... they are back in Provo ready to finish school after their fun summer. They loved Sam so much at the Smithsonian, his boss told him, when he finished school he would find a place to put him out there if he was interested. Hmmmm, that is always nice to hear. Personally, I think that is waaaaaaaay too far away from me to live, but nice to hear.

So Brie came back to Peaks Ice Skating Rink, the job she had before they left. They were relieved when she asked them if she could come back after the Summer.... they not only said, yes, but "ABSOLUTELY YES". They weren't sure what they were gonna do without her and she loves it there so what a good combination.

So when Sam got back from D.C. he did have to search for a new job. He was not going back to Wells Fargo even if they had held it for him.... wasn't a fan of that job. He got busy looking when he was still in D.C. and sent out resumes and looked online, etc. He had 2 interviews with the church before he left about internships for the summer, but was told that there was a freeze on hiring so there weren't any internships available for the summer. When he returned he was called into the Draper Temple for an interview... can you imagine, a job interview in the Temple. He was hired as an intern to the Facilities Manager... which is his major in school. He is sure enjoying it.... what a quiet, calm place to work, no foul language, no smoking breaks, NIIICCCCE! They even let him do his homework when things are slow.

He works more hours than his last job and it is a 45 minute drive both ways, plus he is taking more credits this semester too. Thus, he is a busy boy! He can do it though! I am so proud of these two!

Sam & Brie

2009-09-15T13:00:00.008-07:00

Sam and Brie spent an adventurous summer in Washington D.C. Sam was able to get a internship for the summer at the Smithsonian Museums. So off they went... they drove across the United States taking about a week, with a three day stop off in Arizona. They were so excited to get there and begin their adventure. They did everything they could think of to enjoy the area while they were there, saw every monument, visited every museum, attended an Orioles Baseball game, adventured in every area around including the beach, New York City, Hershey Pennsylvania, got their truck towed twice (not their fault, missunderstanding with landlord, when they finally figured it out the landlord paid the charges the second time) rode the metro daily to work, got locked "INSIDE" their apartment, got locked "INSIDE" one of the Smithsonian Museums after hours, got locked "INSIDE" a "knock off purse" vendor's moving van while shopping for a purse, etc. They make the very best of every situation they get in and make memories where ever they go, and have a blast doing it!

While Sam worked at the Museum, Brie got a summer job as a Nanny for two elementary aged "rich" kids. She realized (I think she already knew it though) that money doesn't buy happiness. These kids had everything they didn't even know they wanted and yet their parents were so "busy" they didn't really have any of their parents attention.

By the time they drove home, they had crossed 26 state lines and had made a figure 8 in their travels with the crossing place in Tulsa Oklahoma. What a fun Summer they had. I am so proud of them and their enjoyment of everything that life sends their way. They handle everything with such maturity, fun, laughter, enjoyment, responsibility and love. LOVE THEM!

Lions and Tigers and Bears....Oh my

2009-09-10T14:05:00.002-07:00

In July, Janeen and I took our campers up to Turkey Flat. Well our husbands took them up for us and set them up. Our plan was to do some camping, Turkey Flat was chosen so we could go up and down the mountain easily since there was lots going on down in the Safford Valley. Funny thing is that we really only spent one night in the campers and what really happened was that we took an opportunity to go up and down and visit our campers. hee hee he Janeen brought up her two little nephews one day, Dillan and Lane. They were so cute and had a blast.

The only night we slept up there, Brian and Cassie and I were in my camper and Janeen was alone in hers. Brian and Cassie left early in the morning to go down for work and Janeen and I stayed up there, sleeping in some. I was awake and all of a sudden there was someone at the back door.

I thought, "Hmmm, Janeen has slept in long enough I guess." I sat up and kind of looked out the window from my bed. It sounded like Janeen was trying to open the door and couldn't. I thought, Brian must have left out of the other door, otherwise, that one would have been unlocked and she could have gotten in.

As I leaned forward, looking through the slats on the window, I saw a big black dog and thought, "whose dog does she have with her?" Quickly my thoughts went to, "Oh my goodness, that's not Janeen, it is someone else trying get in my camper that has a big black dog. I am so glad Brian left that door locked." I wanted to jump forward and lock the other door quickly. Then one last sheepish look through the slats, and I realized it wasn't a dog at all, but a BEAR!!!!!!!!

I jumped up quickly because it was moving and then I heard it in the back side of my camper. I looked out the back window but didn't see it. I didn't know where it had gone, but hope it was just that.... GONE.

I text Janeen in her camper and told her there was a bear outside. She texted back that she couldn't see one. Five minutes later she was walking over to my camper. I told her, "Oh my goodness you are brave, there's a bear out there you know."

She looked at my quickly, "You were serious?"

"Uhhhhh, ya, I saw it"

She totally thought I had just heard something and was jumping to conclusions. LOL, luckily it really was gone. Later when we were brave enough to go outside and sit in our camp chairs, we saw a big dirt paw print on the table outside. Yep, it was a bear!

Noone mourns the WICKED....

2009-09-10T13:53:00.003-07:00

...but some of us cheer the WICKED! Oh wow, on July 4th Aaron and I got to go see "Wicked" together! It was AwEsOmE, so say the very least! Just as the lights go down and the curtain started to open, I looked over at Aaron, and I tell you, he looked like a little boy in a candy shop, bright eyed and grin from ear to ear. I am totally addicted to the soundtrack now and want to go see it again and take a few more people with me. This was the first "Off Broadway" play I have ever seen and now I want to see them all:

Phantom of the Opera

Mary Poppins

Shrek, the Musical

That's my boy...

2009-09-10T13:36:00.002-07:00

He is doing fabulous.... His emails are short and sweet, but I enjoy every word! His testimony has grown so much already! He loves sharing the gospel and had an awesome trainer... I miss him, but those people in Oregon are surely lucky folks! He says he wants to be a missionary forever... and asked, "Is that ok, Mom?" NOOOO, not in Oregon, but yes, you can be a missionary your whole life just like all of us need to be. I am so glad he loves what he is doing and I am so proud of the Young Man that he is!

....And he's off....

2009-09-10T13:19:00.005-07:00

Yes, this was the end of May.....

...well the good-byes are never fun! If we didn't know what we know and really KNOW this is a good thing, how could a Mother ever let her boy leave her for 2 years!

Good-Bye to Brie!

Good-Bye to Sam!

Good-Bye to Mom!

Good-Bye to Aaron!

Good-Bye to Dad!

Good-Bye to Cassie.... I felt so sorry for her, she had to say good-bye as she left for Girl's Camp two days earlier. (She hates this picture, by the way.)

And he's off!!! Go get 'em Elder Scott! You'll will be awesome! Oregon Portland Mission is certainly getting one of the Lord's finest!!!

It's a new dawn...It's a new day...It's a new life

2009-08-25T10:00:00.002-07:00

Wow, so much has happened in this last 4 or so months that has really tugged at my heart. I know everyone goes through "stuff" and I know all things happen for a reason, sometimes I just don't understand (ok let's face it, alot of times I don't understand) and sometimes it hurts alot and sometimes it hurts just a little... but through it all there are those things that also bring so much joy and help us to grow. I hope these things have helped me to grow... maybe to grow a little more understanding... maybe grow a little more patient.... maybe to learn a little more about eternal things and how important they are to fight for and hang on to.

My kids are awesome... I truly have the best kids in the world... and that truly includes the best daughter-in-law as well. My husband is awesome... 27 years and counting all the way to forever. I really do have the best family in the world.... parents and siblings, sister- in-laws, brother-in-laws, and parent-in-laws and nieces and nephews.... Oh and then there are the friends.... what would a person do in this life without friends.

So to all of you... thanks for your support these last few months... through, another Stake Girls Camp, sending off my missionary boy, helping my broken hearted boy, new insulin pump, financial woahs, taxes, weddings, illnesses, my baby turing 16, missing my Utah/D.C. kids, bears, emotional struggles, obsessions, addictions, fire, flood, earthquake... ha, ha, ha.... OK, getting a little carried away, LOL, was it really that bad.... NO!

The good news is... It's a new dawn, a new day and a new chance for all the important things!

My Heavenly Father is in charge, thank goodness for that! I am his daughter and he loves me.

Choir Concert... yes clear back from May Ü

2009-08-18T10:47:00.006-07:00

Some old events that I wanted to post...

This video is Jacob's Quartet (actually it's 6 not 4) Concert at EAC, in May. This is his solo, "Heaven's Eyes". Of course the Momma, thinks he's awesome... sure miss that boy!

And here is Cassie at her final concert of the school year in May. The Show Choir "Taste of Sound" did a Music Theatre show from "Little Mermaid, the Musical". Cassie was Flounder (she comes in on the right), that is why her ponytail is all fanned out, like a fin. The whole show was fantastic if I do say so myself. Cassie had this solo, "She's in Love".

Jacob at the Temple

2009-05-25T14:39:00.003-07:00

Well Jacob got his mission call on March 13th, by the next weekend we were at the temple with him. It was a fabulous day!

It was awesome having family and friends there with us! Both Brian's and my parents were there, Ryan & Fay came down, Shellie came, Janeen & Billy came, Aaron & Tannis, Clay & Shellie Richardson came. Some of us headed to Garcia's after to have some yummy Mexican Food!

What a GREAT DAY!

Cassie just wandered around the temple grounds while we were inside, she was going to watch Jensen, so Jordan and Shanna could come in, but Shanna broke her toe that morning (OUCH) and they didn't make it down afterall. Luckily, the Easter Pageant practises were in full swing and there were lots of weddings going on, so there was a lot of activities and people to keep her busy. The next time one of my kids goes through the temple, the goal is to have us ALL there! That will be awesome!

Gila Valley Temple Ground Breaking

2009-05-25T13:39:00.004-07:00

OK, so seriously, this was clear back in February, on Valentine's Day to be exact, but I was just looking through my pictures and realized I had never blogged about this!

Bright and early Saturday the 14th of February, we struck out with folding chairs, blankets, Sunday Clothes and anxious hearts to the Temple Site location in Central. Aaron had to work (too bad) but Tannis went with us, Brian, Cassie, Nonnie and Papa Scott and Jacob. We dropped Jacob off at EAC, he was riding on down with the select choir students that would be singing in the choir at the grounds dedication.

We arrived about an hour and a half before it was to begin, to ensure a decent seat. It was soooo cold and the grass was wet. As soon as the sun peak up, it started to warm us. I saw lots of friendly and familiar faces. My Dad came and sat with us as well.

Not as many showed up to the site as they had originally expected because they had gone ahead and opened up each Stake Center in the Temple District to view it via Satelite. But I certainly was glad I was at the site!

The talks we terrific, the choir was fantastic and the spirit was excellent!

WE GET TO HAVE A TEMPLE RIGHT HERE IN THE GILA VALLEY...sometime next year we will be back again for a Temple Dedication!!!!

OREGON PORTLAND MISSION

2009-03-17T15:41:00.006-07:00

So onto the "rest of the story". YES, as the title of this post says, he is going to the Oregon Portland Mission. He reports to the MTC in Provo on May 27th. Much to be decided between now and then.

He is so excited and had a fun "Mission Call Opening Party". He had alot of his friends come over that evening at 7:00. He decided to wait until after work to open it because his Dad was at work and Jacob needed to go to work and he wanted his friends to come. So he had the following people there with him as he read his call: Dad & Mom (Brian & I, of course), Cassie, Aaron & Tannis, Aunt Fay. Spencer, Will, Drew & Leslie, Jaron, Janeen, Ariel, Amber & Jenny, all the Pecks; Kevin, Jody, Stephanie, Kimi, Shelby & Becca, Shaylin Farr, Calvin Richardson, Jacob Taylor, Rylan Sturm, Caleb Dale, David Weech, Allison McHugh, Shellie Richarson. It was a nice little group and then there were those that were on the phone too.

Jacob requested food, so we had snacks, of course Chips & Salsa, Brownies, Little Smokeys, and some yummy lemon oatmeal squares that Jody brought.

It was a fun evening and really got us excited and most of all Jacob is excited! He is really a big boy now, he got a letter from his good buddy, Thomas Monson and he is ready to go do the Big Boy work in Portland! He knows as we all know, that he has truly been called of the Lord to be His embassador, His valiant servant, to bring souls unto Him.

IT'S HERE... THE MISSION CALL

2009-03-17T08:30:00.006-07:00

On Friday the 13th, Jacob's mission call came. It was a funny story how it came:

Brian and I were going out of town Wednesday and Thursday and Jacob was staying home working. Brian and I talked about stopping the mail just in case it came while we were gone. We thought Jacob won't even know and it will be easier for him if we aren't here for it to just NOT come. I left town Wednesday morning later than I thought so I went ahead and stopped at the Post Office to check and told Cassie, if it IS here we are not going out of town after all. It wasn't there so off we went to Phoenix.

That afternoon a text came through to me, from Jacob, "ARE YOU KIDDING ME... YOU STOPPED THE MAIL" I am thinking "huh" how did you know? He had ran out to meet the mail lady when she came and she said, "Oh sorry you have a hold on your mail." Oops our secret is out. I told him, no worries, he can just go down early the next morning and check the mail at the P.O. and see if it is here. That way he would know early in the morning rather than wait half the day for the mail lady.

The next morning, he goes down to the Post Office. Well wouldn't you know, the mail lady has taken the mail out. The clerk at the window says when she gets to our mail box, she will see the "hold" and remember, then bring back the mail to the Post Office. She told him to check back about 4:00 when she returned. So he goes back at 4:00 and she can only give him mail that is "HIS" and there is none. Bummer!

So Friday morning, I go down about 9:30 to unhold the mail and pick up any that is there. The window clerk said that the delivery gal was still there and had just finished sorting and said that "he" had already come to check this morning and picked up yesterdays mail, but todays mail wasn't through sorting and she brought out the "WHITE ENVELOPE". I knew Jacob hadn't gone down that morning and so the window clerk said, well maybe she just thought that because the bin was empty. She said I hate to give you this to you because she had told Jacob the day before that she would give it to him. But she handed it over!

I took a picture of it with my camera and text it to Jacob. He text back in all capitals again... ARE YOU SERIOUS! And then I found out... the "HE" that had already been to the Post Office before me was Brian. He had gone to pick up the mail and "The call" wasn't there, because the delivery lady hadn't finished sorting which when she was, the call was there and then I showed up. He was bummed.... he pointed out that he had gotten there first! Ha, ha, ha... too bad, I got to pick it up. When I got home, I put it into the mailbox and made him get it out!

FHE

2009-03-17T07:59:00.005-07:00

For Family Home Evening that last few weeks we have been having fun with the alphabet. It started a couple weeks back because we'd been watching a few different Disney movies. We decided to order Pizza and watch Pocohontas.... thus the "P" Family Night... We also ended up having Popcorn for refreshments as we watched the movie.

So they next time, Tannis and Aaron invited us to their home for FHE. It was the "B" night. We had Breakfast and played Bowling on the Wii. Of course we pointed out that in our breakfast we also had butter and bacon and on the Wii we could also play Baseball or Boxing. It was fun.

Last night Cassie wanted to "go out" somewhere for FHE and I said, well what about actually having a lesson this week. I was fixing Meatloaf for dinner and everyone wanted to watch the movie "Madagascar". So Brian said, "OK, everyone has to come up with a gospel topic starting with "M" and share something they know and ask a question about it. We had the BEST discussion. We talked about:

Marriage (between a husband and wife are ordained of God)
Millenium (Missionary Work during the Millenium, when will it be? etc.)
Melchizedek Priesthood (Why is the higher order called Melchizedek)
Manna (What do you think it tastes like)
Mediums (we had been talking the other day, about hauntings and what are they and the difference between feeling good spirits)
Mother (Her primary responsibility is to nurture and care for her children. I wonder how our Heavenly Mother longs to nurture us? Do you think we will be just as familiar with her when we see her as we are told we will be familiar with our Heavenly Father... we think "YES")
Momma's Boys (The Strippling Warriors.... they didn't doubt [that] their mothers knew it or they didn't doubt [because] their mothers knew it. We voted that it meant both.)

It was great to have such wonderful gospel disscussions with my family! I love them!

2008 Scott Happenings

2009-02-10T15:55:00.006-07:00

(Ok this was supposed to be my Christmas letter, and then as my New Year's Letter, and then as my Valentine's Day letter. When I sent out my cards I was just going to reference my blog and the post titled "2008 Scott Happenings". Well here it is just posted because I have never sent out cards. Some things are repeats from throughout the year, but this is a summary of 2008)

The very beginning in January, Brian, Jacob, Cassie and I were able to go Utah to see Sam & Brie. They weren't able to come home for the holidays because of work, so we visited them for New Years. We had a really good time. We went Ice Skating at the rink where Brie works two different times, one of them being with Nick & Shellie and family. We went out to eat at a Brazilian Restaurant on New Year's Eve. It was yummy and we were sooooooo stuffed. We had lots of fun and enjoyed seeing them and their fun little life.

In March, Brian and I went with the Safford Choir students (the ones that were able to come up with the money) including Jacob and Cassie to Washington D.C. It was a whirlwind of a time. We left at 2:00am and barely made it to the airport for our 6:00 am flight. That was simply a sign of how the whole trip would go. We hurried up everywhere we went and had an awesome time. It was a great experience for the kids. We were exhausted when we got home, but glad for the time spent in the Nation's capital and with the great kids that went.

In April, Sam was able to come for a quick visit, when his buddy Brant took his sweet wife through the temple with him. It was a short visit, but it was good.

May brought all the events that go along with High School graduation for Jacob, and winding up the school year for Cassie. It was a good year. Then came Stake Girls Camp. I was Assistant Stake Camp Director again this year and our theme was Citius ~ Altius ~ Fortius (Swifter, Higher, Stronger) which was an Olympic Theme. Brian went once again with me as an awesome Priesthood holder and as one of our Greek Superheros, Altius, and Cassie was a 3rd year. It was a great time.

June was a great month. We had a Scott Family Reunion a week after Girl's Camp and most of Brian's family was able to come for it. It was a week filled with getting ready for the big celebration of Guy & Glenna's 50th Wedding Anniversary. We had a great party and they loved it. The week after that was the Jarvis Family's turn. Jarvises began arriving in preparation for Mom & Dad's (Reece & Anna Jane's) 50th Wedding Anniversary Party. Again, success was had with this party and Mom & Dad loved it. ALL of my Mom & Dad's family was here with one exception.... Prestion (Carolyn & Dennis's boy), and he is serving his mission so he is exactly where he is supposed to be, but we missed him just the same. We enjoyed having Sam & Brie here for both events. This whole experience was made just a tad harder due to the fact that I wrecked my car... leaving it undrivable. We went through 4 rental cars throughout the month and finally got my car back. Can you say, "DING! DONG!", that would be me, I ran into a light pole in the empty church parking lot, going very slowly looking up at the mountain visualizing a family picture.

July took me to Orlando for my Close To My Heart Convention. I hooked up with Reecia (my sister) there and had a great time. I spent one evening at Disney World, but there is just too much of Disney World to see in one evening.

October took us back to Utah. Brian, Jacob, Cassie and I went back to go to General Conference. None of us had ever been before. It was awesome. We went to two sessions and the guys went to the Priesthood session. I loved it. Everyone should have that opportunity at the very least once. Of course it was great to once again spend time with Sam & Brie.

We hosted Thanksgiving at out home in November. Aaron & Tannis stayed to have it with us, they were gonna go to Tannis's families in Grants but Aaron had work and we were glad to have them with us. We also had Juliana and her family, Jordan & Shanna & Jensen, plus Shanna's parents, and both Brian & my parents. Ryan & Faye came by just in time for Desert. It was a fun day.

Christmas season always brings lots of fun, anxiousness, memory making, etc. Aaron & Tannis spent the night with us on Christmas Eve. It was fun to have some excitement... with kids growing up and no little ones around, it sure is a different feeling. The magic of little ones is something I look forward to having again, when the grandkids start to come. Shelly & Nick were here so it was fun having their kids and Juliana & Josh's kids around though. I love Christmas, and all it brings and all it means and all it stands for.

Sam & Brie are still at BYU, living the young married life. Sam has just been accepted into his program which is "Facilities Management". We are so proud of him. He is also working at Wells Fargo, 3 days a week. Brie has been taking classes a little at a time and working full time at the Skating Rink so Sam can go to school full time. I enjoy watching (but mostly hearing) about their life and their interest in making each other happy... just they way two people in love should treat each other.

Aaron & Tannis live just up the road from us. It is so fun having them here for dinner most Sundays. We didn't see them much more than that as Tannis was going to school and working and Aaron was working ALOT of hours up at Freeport MacMoran. He was laid off at the end of the year with all the lay offs up there. It has been hard for everyone, but Aaron just this last week got a job as a busser at Denny's. Tannis is still working at the Nursing Home assisting with Physical Therapy. We have seen more of them lately with the job situation and I enjoy watching them giggle and laugh together. They are fun to watch. No doubt they are two love birds that have been through a hard time with jobs, but they are making their way through it just fine.

Jacob is at EAC and just finishing up his paperwork for his mission. I can hardly believe my 3rd boy is that age.... where did the time go. Jacob is a hard worker, he worked most of the year at Green's Furniture and when the economy took a dive, they had to reduce his hours, but the brother company, the appliance side, needed someone so they picked him up. He is in the Quartet at EAC and loves it!!!

Cassie is a Sophmore in High School. She has really missed having Jacob at the high school with her this year. They really became good friends last school year. Cassie played tennis last Spring (2008) but has elected not to this year. She is very involved in Choir and is in the Girl's Quartet. They even placed 2nd in the Talent Show at the county fair. She works for her Dad once a week filing down at the office and enjoys her friends. She is looking forward to getting her Driving Permit soon YIKES!! That just can't be!

Brian is still doing Real Estate Appraisals. The last half of 2008 sure made a shift in Real Estate. Brian is still busy, they have just become harder, because values are decreasing and people aren't happy. It makes it a little discouraging, but it is just he whole economy problem. He is also still Bishoping... he has been going at it for 3 1/2 years so far. He enjoys it because of the wonderful people he gets to work with and watch learn and grow. His service has truly blessed our family.

Me, hmmmm, I am still playing the piano in Primary and still get to help plan Girl's Camp. We are already geared up of Girl's Camp 2009. I am also still teaching my Scrapbooking classes and groups and having workshops with cards and other paper crafts. It is alot of fun and I enjoy it. (Love to share it with anyone interested - shameless plug I know).

Life just keeps moving along, I can't believe how much faster it goes the older I get. I am truly blessed with a wonderful family and comfortable home. Life is truly fabulous.

Sing! Sing! SIng!

2008-12-23T09:21:00.013-07:00

Christmas Choir Concerts were great to attend this holiday season! I have mentioned earlier, that Jacob is in Accapella Choir at EAC and also in the Men's Group called "The Guys" which is just 6. Jacob is 2nd from the right. He also performed in the "Messiah" along with my Mom. That was the first time I have been to the Messiah and it has been a long standing tradition here in our area. I think they said it is the longest running tradition of Messiah performances or at least the 2nd longest. It was beautiful.

Cassie is also in the choir called "Taste of Sound" at Safford High School" and the Women's Quartet group as well. Cassie is on the right. Here is just a small sampling of their small groups performing. It was awesome! (I do have to say that that the video wasn't so great once again... but just listen Ü)

These are the words to the song Cassie is singing. It is Mary singing it about her child. I had never heard it before and it was honestly so beautiful, it choked me up. I didn't start it right at the beginning but sure with I had.

MY SON, MY KING
I hold this tiny hand in mine,
These hands will cause the blind to see
And bless the children one by one,
As they gather 'round His knee.
These tiny feet, so soft and new,
These feet will walk upon the sea,
And many souls will follow Him,
As now He follows me.
Oh that I could keep Him safe from harm,
Right here with me, forever in my arms.

This tiny child is born today,
I can hear the angels sing (Allelujah)
He comes through me to save the world,
This child, My Son, My King.

The shepherds heard the messenger,
They kneel before the manger bed. (Cassie's solo line)
This humble throne where lies a king,
With straw to crown His head.
Wise men and kings will travel far,
They'll come to worship and adore.
This tiny child, my holy Son,
Their king forevermore.
He will be pure and free from sin.
And He will die...... But He will live again.

This tiny child is born today,
I can hear the angels sing (Allelujah)
He comes through me to save the world,
This child, My Son, My King.
He comes through me to save the world......
This child, My Son, My King!

Deck the Halls and the Walls...

2008-12-17T19:55:00.006-07:00

Ok, so... yesterday, I was in Brian's office and a man was there who we both know and is a friend. We were just visiting about this and that, and I mentioned that I needed to go do a little Christmas shopping and boy did that set off a tirade. WHEW!!!! He is adamantly opposed to celebrating Christmas, to (as in his words) "Teaching lies", to adorning a tree (and again in his words) "worshipping it"..... etc. While this man's religious affiliation is the same as mine, I knew of his opposition to celebrating Christmas, but I was not prepared for his "soap box" performance and it totally caught me off guard and I found myself feeling very hot and boiling inside as I felt to defend my position on Christmas. Brian's and my position is... "If the Apostles and Prophets, will host a "Christmas Devotional" and talk of the Christmas Spirit, and allow Christmas trees to decorate the Conference Center and Christmas lights to light up the temples... and talk of the spirit of giving, and sharing and animating the Christmas Story... why then would we oppose such a thing? Yes, we know that December 25th isn't really Christ's birthday, and yes, we know that Christ is the real meaning in the Christmas celebration, but why would you not want to join in unity with the rest of the world to feel of the love and giving that just seems to literally fill the air! I enjoyed the Christmas Devotional from Salt Lake (which by the way, this man did not watch... hmmmm) and know that I am truly blessed to have a Savior, my older brother, born of such humble circumstances to truly be the King of the Earth and Redeem the world and I choose to celebrate his birth this Christmas Season.... with joy, with lights, with family, with friends, with gift giving, with Christmas trees, with song, with parties, with happiness, with love!

I LOVE SANTA!!!

2008-12-17T19:27:00.007-07:00

Jensen and Santa!

So it is no secret that everyone loves Santa! I love Santa... I have always loved Santa... and I will always believe in Santa... My favorite Santa has always been Dennis Lunt... I remember him at ward parties growing up, at my Grandma's house in years past, he has even come to Scrapbooking functions for me....!!! LOVE IT! Well this year, he has had a little competition with my "Favorite Santa spot" in my heart! Get a look at this great Santa!!!!

Santa's sister loves him!

Santa's brother loves him!

Even Santa's Nonnie loves him!

And Santa's wife LOVES him!
Nonnie Scott's ward did a Breakfast with Santa for the Kids and asked Aaron to help! He did a great job... maybe it is his calling in life Ü. He has always been so cute with kids anyway and wanting to play with them. Tannis just couldn't quit giggling. I think they both enjoyed it. I know I did! Love that Santa!

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-30T22:35:00.003-07:00

Thanksgiving was fabulous! We feasted at our house and thought we were going to have 25 to dinner. This year instead of doing buffet style eating, we had sit-down dinner and passed the food around! Ryan and Fay's family didn't end up coming until later, so their 7 chairs didn't get filled but we had 18 for a sit-down, pass-around Thanksgiving dinner. It was great. I remember that is how we always did it at my Grandma Jarvis's house and what I love about it, is we all ate at the same time and finished about the same time as well. We sat there and chatted and groaned and laughed and moaned! LOVE, LOVE, LOVED it!

This is who was all in attendence: Brian & I, Aaron & Tannis, Jacob, Cassie, Mom & Dad Jarvis, Mom & Dad Scott, Josh, Juliana, McKay, Kaden & Carter, Jordan, Shanna & Jensen, Jim & Nancy (Shanna's parents), and then Ryan, Fay, Leslie, Reece, Spenser, Will & Drew came later for desert.

I love my family and completely enjoyed them! I can't wait to get together for Christmas! (We missed you Sam & Brie and everyone else too)

Gratitude #27 - My Testimony

2008-11-28T09:03:00.003-07:00

I am thankful for Thanksgiving and that has given me a reason to really think about some of these things! I am truly thankful for my Testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ, I know that he lives and that he loves me and that he is my Redeemer, my Savior and friend. I know there is a living prophet and I am thankful that I had a chance to see him at General Conference in October. I'm thankful for his counsel and love his phrase, "Find Joy in your Journey...NOW". I am thankful to know that I am a daughter of a Father in Heaven who loves me and I love him. I am thankful that...

"I belong to the Church of Jesus Christ

of Latter-Day Saints.

I know who I am, I know God's plan,

I'll follow him in Faith.

I believe in the Savior, Jesus Christ.

I'll honor his name.

I'll do what is right,

I'll follow his light.

His truth I will proclaim."

Gratitude #24 - Flowers

2008-11-28T09:02:00.018-07:00

I am thankful for FLOWERS! I am thankful for them when I see them growing in someone's yard. I am thankful for them when I see them growing wild up on the mountain. I am thankful for them when I see sunflowers growing in the wash down the road from my house. I am thankful for them when they are sitting in a vase on my counter or table! They make me feel happy! I love tulips... they don't last very long in a vase, but they are so pretty. I love daisies! They are just so cute, whether white or yellow or the Gerber Daisies that are all colors! They are so fun! And what girl doesn't love a ROSE! Roses just make you smile, they help remind you that you are thought of and loved! One of my favorite Christmas presents ever came a few years back. Brian says it was desperation because he couldn't think of anything else, but the fact that he thought of this made me know he had really been thinking about it. He gave me a note explaining that each month through the next year on our anniversary date I would be recieving a delivery from the florist. Of course the note said other sweet things like referring to remembering every month not just our anniversary month, and how happy he was that we married on the 22nd of January all those years ago. It was very sweet and awesome!

Gratitude #26 - Bath & Body Works

2008-11-28T09:02:00.017-07:00

I am thankful for Bath & Body Works.... silly I know, but Cassie pointed it out to me how much I appreciated it. I don't currently need any since we just went there a couple of weeks ago, and you know you have to stock up! I love so many of the fragrances.... Sweet Pea, Pink Grapefruit, Mango Mandrian, Pineapple (can't think of the catchy name right off), Cotton Blossom (even though they discontinued it :( sad), Cherry Blossom, Warm Vanilla Sugar, Rainkissed Leaves... to name a few! The yummy fragrances put a smile on my face!

Gratitude #25 - My Heritage

2008-11-28T09:02:00.014-07:00

I am thankful for my heritage. Just like Nephi, I could easily state, "I, Karen having been born of goodly parents..." and they having been born of goodly parents, and they also having been born of goodly parents, etc. My maternal Grandmother, died when I was only 5 years old. I do remember her and her home in Pine. It's weird the things your mind can remember, because she lived near us in Pima for a couple years before she passed away. She was a sweet giving Mother, Wife and Grandmother. I named my daughter after her. Her husband, my maternal grandfather, then lived with us for the next 12 years. I thought that was what a family was... Father, Mother, Children, Grandpa.... I remember how he used to tease us that he was asleep in the chair and then startle us when we walked by and how we played on his walker. He was a sweet sweet man that everyone loved. He was concerned for all and everyone called him Grandpa.

On my Father's side, my grandparents were both school teachers. My grandpa had been a dairy farmer before that and always had haystacks, horses and cows to be milked. He was kind of gruff when I was younger and sometimes scared us, but that was just because he wanted us to be good and do what was right, and yet he was gentle and loving and would scoop us up onto his lap. He always gave us rides on his knee as well as his tractor and his horses. He was a big tease too. My Grandmother was very loving. She was my 2nd grade teacher and I loved that. I loved to go to her house after school. She was always busy doing something. I loved going shopping with her to the grocery store, she just hummed and went about her business. She was always happy. At Christmas time, it was my job as a teenager to go put up her Christmas tree. We loved making sugar cookies with her and pulling taffy too. When she was not well at the end of her life, I was just a young mother, I'd take my two little guys to see her in the hospital each day and when she got to come back to my aunt's home I was able to in a small way help look after her a few times. I enjoyed those last days just having an opportunity to read to her and visit her.

I am thankful my grandparents raised my parents to be Gospel Loving people, to love the Lord and seek to serve him all their lives just as my Grandparents had done.

Gratitude #23 - The Mountain

2008-11-27T22:58:00.005-07:00

I am thankful for "My Mountain". I already briefly mentioned it in the last post... but I am thankful for Mount Graham. I don't go up often enough, but I love it and have so many memories there. It is just a short 30 minute drive until you are up in the pine trees. What a welcome change of scenery in those moments that you need a change of scenery. I love just looking up at it from right down here at my home. I love looking up at it from across a huge green field of cotton. I love it when the snow starts to come and even though it isn't usually here at home, there it is sprinkling the mountain with wonderful white frosting. I love taking our camping (which by the way I am also very thankful for) up the mountain and spending some time just enjoying the camp fires and the wonderful meals that just seem to be magically prepared up there. I love the mountain smells: of pine, of rain. I've had so many memories there as a child, and with my children, and with my family and friends! I am thankful for the mountain.

Gratitude #22 - My Home Town

2008-11-27T22:06:00.004-07:00

I am thankful for the Gila Valley!

I created this layout a couple of months ago about "My Town". It was a layout idea we were given right after Close To My Heart Convention and the sample we were given was a page from San Fransisco. Many people said things like, "I'm not going to create a layout about "My City" since I don't live ina neat place, with beaches or cool things to scrapbook about." Well, it sent me on a journey...wondering why do I love "My Town" so much. I drove around taking pictures of the things I love about this place, I took 70 pictures! I realized I didn't just love "My Town", but "My Gila Valley". I love living here!
These are just some of the pictures I took that day. This is the journaling I did on this layout!

"I do love living here at the foot of the grand Mount Graham!

"I grew up in the "Gila Valley", but lived at the West end, in Pima and now we have raised our children 15 miles up the road (East & South) in Safford or more specifially, Cactus Flat. So this is basically my Home Town Valley.

"Some of the things I love about the Gila Valley are:

THE PEOPLE, first and foremost. I have heard it said many times, that small town people know each others business too much . . . I choose to look at it as.. small town folks, (yes, folks Ü) just care so much about each other, and that lends itself to know each others business.
The mountain: It's beautiful and grand and fun! I look out my front window and there it is. (I think it is MY mountain) In a 30 minute drive you can go from the warmth of the desert at 3130 feet elevation to the cool of the pine trees at 7520 feet elevation. There is also a mountain range on the North side of the valley, it's pretty too.
The cotton fields: Who says Arizona isn't green . . . just look at those fields of green. I love watching the seasons change just in the cotton fields . . . in a few short months those cotton fields will be white ready to harvest. (OK, so that has already happened since I journaled this) I love seeing the tractors in the fields, plowing or harvesting.
The Historic old buildings that just make this a "cute little town".
The Safford LDS Stake Center - lots of great memories there.
My favorite places for food . . . Casa Manana, Taco Taste, Safeway . . .
I love the view when I leave my home and drive into town . . . down "Jensen Hill" on Highway 191 into the valley.

Gratitude #21 - My Country

2008-11-27T21:54:00.006-07:00

I am thankful for the land of the free and the home of the brave! I am proud to be an American! I am thankful for the forebearers who came seeking religious freedom and settled here. I am thankful for the pioneers who braved the elements, the trials, the ridicule, the unfairness and held fast to their freedom of religion and didn't waver... but instead stayed true through it all and continued to worship as they knew the truth. I am thankful for our opportunity to vote and have a voice, even when it turns a different way that I am wanting. I am thankful that Proposition 102 passed and that Propoosition 8 in California passed and in Florida. I am thankful for spacious skies, for amber waves of grain. I am thankful for purple mountains majesty, above the fruited plain. God Bless America!

Gratitude #20 - Salsa - Casa

2008-11-20T08:56:00.007-07:00

I am thankful for Salsa and Chips.... YUM! I love to make salsa and I love that others love me to make my salsa. I love it when people call me up and want to buy some of my salsa packets. I love Casa Manana Salsa also. I love going there to eat chips and see people I know! It is a "Happy" place for me and feels good to go there!

By the way, if are interested in purchasing a packet of salsa... It is $2.50 each and is a packet of seasoning that you mix with a 28 oz. can of whole peeled tomatoes and VOILA, yummy salsa.

Gratitude #19 - Cookies

2008-11-20T08:56:00.004-07:00

I am thankful for good yummy cookies! I am a sweet tooth it is no doubt and I love all things sugar and sweet but I just have a extra hard time staying away from pasteries.... doughnuts, cake, pie and COOKIES! At Christmas time I like to make all kinds of cookies and look forward to coming across a new fun yummy sounding recipe for cookies to try. This year I found a recipe for Rootbeer Cookies that I can't wait to try. My favorites each Christmas are: ALL TIME FAVORITE, CHOCOLATE CHIP, Pumpkin, Jello Cookies (made with Strawberry and Lime jello for red and green), Lemon Squares, Brownies, Chocolate Cookies, Sugar Cookies (another favorite) ... shoot they are all favorites, I think I'll go get started! I am thankful for cookies!

Gratitude #18 - Sheraton Hotel

2008-11-20T08:55:00.004-07:00

I am thankful for nice hotels and our Timeshare with Sheraton! I have discovered that I am a Hotel Snob! Over the years I have stayed in some really nice hotels when I have gone to Close To My Heart Events like Convention and Leadership Conferences. I have discovered that nice hotels are just the thing to start a nice day when traveling. With our timeshare we have had alot of points that we have uses as a random day at a Sheraton somewhere. We have used them to stay at Disneyland several times and a night here and there in Phoenix, or when we went to Albuquerque for Aaron and Tannis's wedding last Fall. It sure makes a difference to be in a nice updated place verses a run-down, old, budget hotel. Yes, I am a Hotel Snob and thankful for some of the nicer things in life!

Gratitude #17 - Christmas Jammies

2008-11-20T08:54:00.007-07:00

I've been thinking about Christmas jammies lately. It is our tradition as it is with probably alot of people, to open a present on Christmas Eve and it be a new pair of pajamas, jammies, PJs! There have been a few years missed but as my kids have gotten older, they insist that is a tradition that must carry on. I love it, as we put on our new jammies and model and take silly pictures! I am so thankful for Christmas Jammies and the memories that come from them!

Graditude #16 - A Neck Pillow? Ü

2008-11-20T08:53:00.007-07:00

Do any of you have this handy dandy thing hanging around at your house? The Neck Pillow! What a wonderful invention! I love mine and I am thankful for it! It's great in the car and it's great just relaxing in Brian's recliner and watching TV! I think it is just OK to be thankful for simple little things in our lives too (sillly as they may be)! Ü

Gratitude #15 - Disneyland

2008-11-20T08:53:00.005-07:00

M - I - C - K - E - Y - - - M - O - U - S - E

Yes, I am thankful for Disneyland! I love everything Disney! I would love to go a whole lot more than I do. I love to go with my kids, I love to go with my friends, I love to go with my husband! I know you might just think I'm silly, but I love to go to Disneyland! I am thankful for my memories there with those that I have had the opportunity to spend time there with!

Gratitude #14 - Girl's Camp

2008-11-20T08:52:00.007-07:00

I love Girl's Camp and I am so thankful for the program! It is truly an inspired program that not only benefits Young Woman, but Women and families!. I loved it as a Young Women myself and went back for 7 years as a young women becasue I loved it so much. Now as an adult, I have had the opportunity to go for the last 10 years with our Safford Stake and what a pleasure and joy it has been. I think that I am a better person for the experiences had at Girl's Camp. Lives are changed there for the better. Currently I serve as the Assistant Stake Camp Director, and we had our first meeting last night with our YCLs (Youth Camp Leaders). I know it is only November and we won't start meeting regularly until after Christmas, the Camp Director and myself have met and begun our planning and last night we just touched base with the YCLs to light a fire and start them thinking and get them excited. We have a great group of YCLs once again and another terrific year is ahead. Girl's Camp is a place of strengthening testimonies of who you are, of the Savior, of the Book of Mormon, of living the standards, of latter day prophets, of knowing we are children of a Heavenly Father who loves us.... the list goes on and on. Besides all that, what a fun place to strengthen friendships and bonds that will last a lifetime.

Gratitute #13 - Music

2008-11-17T13:46:00.016-07:00

I am thankful for Music.... it isn't just being able to play the piano, but, just the peace and enjoyment that comes from music. I grew up hearing my Dad sing for everyone's wedding and funeral, and my Mom accompanying him. My Mom always sang with the "Singing Mothers" wearing their white blouses and black skirts. We would often stand around the piano and sing together as a family. To this day, that is one of my favorite things to do, or get out the Karaoke microphone and bring on the smiles. I remember our little family (me, just a young girl) singing "Once Within A Lowly Stable" as a special number in Church for Christmas, and also me and my sisters singing "So This Is Love" & "A Bushel and a Peck" at an Aunt's wedding reception. In 6th grade I started playing in the band... the trumpet, just like my Dad had, and played with the band through my Junior year in High School. Music has just always been a part of my life. My children have loved music, violin's, drums, piano and choir. It has been such a joy to watch and listen to them excel with their love of music. There is an ongoing joke of me and my sister... that whatever you might say, we just might have a song that goes with it. It has become a tradition at our annual Labor Day camp out to make up a song that includes the happenings of the weekend. Singing and music just make me smile!

Gratitude #12 - Piano

2008-11-17T13:28:00.006-07:00

I am thankful that I can play the piano! I'm not necessarily great at it, but I can do it and it makes me happy. How I wish I hadn't given my Mom a hard time about practising and stuff and been that much better than I am now.

A few years back if I were asked if I could play the piano I might have said "no" because I didn't think I could play it good enough for anyone else to hear, but out of necessity when I was Primary President before moving to Safford, and our sweet little piano player often didn't show up, I then had to swallow my pride and sit down in front of all those primary children (scary) and play... and hey I didn't do to bad. Sometimes now, as I am the Primary Pianist, I sit there in Primary and I'm just amazed that I can play this wonderful instrument and I am thankful that (even if it isn't perfect or the best) Heavenly Father has given me this gift. Sitting down in front of the piano can really lift your spirits when you need them lifted. Thanks, Delsa McBride, Susan Bingham, Gina Noake for teaching me to play.

Gratitude #11 - Close To My Heart

2008-11-13T11:34:00.005-07:00

OK, here we go with this one... I'm behind, soooo...I am thankful for my Close To My Heart business. I know some would say that it is merely an obsession and others would say that it is only a hobby... while I wouldn't discount either of those... it is so much more than that.

It is a wonderful business, with a wonderful purpose. The Company Mission Statement is: "We show you how to celebrate relationships through the art of scrapbooking and stamping. Faster. Simpler. Easier." This says volumes to me..... it is about relationships! Preserving memories, stories, photographs.... and cherishing and celebrating those things! It really is a "feel good" business. You can go crazy with products and papers and designing or you can also really see a simple, easy way to preserve those memories. You don't have to be creative.... it does the creative for you if you want.

Beyond the actual product and the company.... the "Belonging" is a huge factor for me. There is a real "sisterhood" within the company of team members. So many reaching out to others. Few will ever probably 'get it' but it is something that I cannot imagine not being a part of. It has been a big blessing in my life.

If you know someone that would like to be a part of this "sisterhood" of consultants... I can sure help them out! Ü

Gratitude #10 - Ward Family

2008-11-10T20:39:00.003-07:00

I am thankful for my Ward Family! As I run through names from our ward I feel very fortunate to be associated with these wonderful people and feel very much like they are my family as well. We have shared many opportunities to serve in different capacities together whether it be Primary, Relief Society, Young Women's or some other thing. I am thankful for these two men in these pictures. They are my husbands right and left arm... as his counselors. I don't know what he would do without them. They families are awesome as well. There are many other families and individuals whose service is not unnoticed and who Brian very much depends on to get things done in the ward. There are angels all around performing all kinds of wonderful things for each other to make life better for each other. Elder's Quorum President and counselors, High Priest Group Leader and assistants, Young Men Leaders, Young Women Leaders, Primary President and counselors and teachers, Relief Society Presidency and teachers, Home Teachers, Visiting Teachers, Clerks and Secretaries, Music Leaders..... the list goes on and on! I love these people!

Gratitude #9 - Temples

2008-11-10T20:26:00.004-07:00

I am thankful for temples! This is the temple Brian and I were married in almost 27 years ago. WOW, how time flies.... I know families can be together forever and I am thankful for that knowledge. I am thankful for covenants and truths that are taught and sealed here. I am thankful that in a little over a year we will have a temple, right here in the Gila Valley so temple attendance can be more frequent.

Tonight for FHE, we drove down to Central to the Ball Fields so Brian could see the stakes in the ground that mark the corners of the temple. That is all that is there so far; WOODEN STAKES! and yet he was so excited to walk off the distance (just as he does for appraisals, for a living) and just get a feeling for how it is going to be! I am excited about the Gila Valley Temple, but I am so excited about Brian's excitement. Yes, I am thankful for temples.

Gratitude #8 - Friends

2008-11-10T20:21:00.002-07:00

I have been so bless in life with really great friends; from my early years in school to now. I have old school friends, church friends, stamping friends, cousin friends, etc. Each holds a special place in my heart and I feel my life has been touched by so many! Friends certainly make in impact on your life and sharing your ups and downs with them make the world a better place to be. This collage is only a sampling of some of the people that have impacted my life. Thank you friends!

Gratitude #7 - My "other" family

2008-11-07T01:32:00.004-07:00

#7... I am thankful for my other family! I didn't grow up in childhood with them, but I have grown up in parenthood and wifehood with them.... Brian's family! Some people just don't get to have great in-laws... I'm sorry for them! Brian's parents are loving dependable grandparents and try to attend whatever they can to with all their grandchildren... sometimes in 5 different states, well now only 4 different states. They've been to most Eagle Court of Honors, many ordinations, baptisms, plays, sporting events, choir concert, piano or violin concerts.... etc. They love their family. They love the gospel and have taught their children the same.

Brian's brother and sisters are my brother and sisters and their spouses are also my brothers and sisters! I enjoy each one of them. Sometimes, it may get a little intense when we are all together Ü, but I just think we are out of practise, because we just really don't get to do it often enough... but one thing for sure, there is never any doubt that we all love each other. I love all their talents and willingness to share them and desire to support the exciting things that happen in our lives. I love all their kids as well. We need to be together more often!

Gratitude #6 - My family: Parents & Siblings

2008-11-07T01:12:00.006-07:00

#6 ... I am thankful for wonderful parents and brothers and sisters... for FAMILY!

I couldn't have had any two better parents... They are the most generous, loving, giving people in the world. I don't know what I must have done to be so blessed in my childhood and growing up to have such great examples of gospel living and loving each other. They are truly sweethearts. They love being together and love their children. They love the Lord and they love their neighbors and their community... the list goes on and on. They gave me such a great foundation for life. They are my heroes.

My siblings are also awesome. We have spent a lifetime together, laughing, joking, fighting, crying, being silly, being serious, sharing, caring, creating, singing, playing games, making up songs, cheering, dancing, having DDS together, camping, etc. They are my best friends.... I love their spouses and I love their children!

Gratitude #5 - My baby girl

2008-11-07T01:01:00.004-07:00

#5 ... I am thankful for my beautiful baby girl. She isn't such a baby anymore but she will always be my baby. She has some trials in her life that I admire watching her handle most times with grace and dignity, very few will probably ever really understand that. She is adorable, kind and fun. She also loves to sing and play the piano and is quite talented. She is a natural with babies and little kids.. they just seem to automatically draw to her. She really doesn't know just how awesome she is... and I pray that she will come to realize her gifts and gain confidence (not arrogance). She wants to be good and do what is right and knows she is loved.

Gratitude #4 - My youngest son

2008-11-07T00:48:00.004-07:00

#4 ... I am thankful for my 3rd son ... Jacob! He is always looking out for his Mom. He is generous and giving and has a strong desire to follow what he knows to be true. He is trying to be financially smart as he goes to school and works and prepares to serve a mission this Spring. He loves to sing and is talented. He is so easy to like and be a friend, and it seems everyone likes him. He also is a handsome young man earnestly and causiously trying to head the right direction in everyway.

Gratitude #3 - My middle boy and his wife

2008-11-07T00:37:00.006-07:00

#3 ... I am thankful for my 2nd born son and his wife as well. Aaron is also a handsome young man... a hard worker... a sweetheart... a tender hearted, sensative person, he will be you biggest cheerleader if you need one. He has alway been a great friend to all, to the underdog and to the friendless as well as someone with plenty of friends, he will be a "defender" for those he loves. Tannis is also a beautiful, sweet, young, lady who knows she is a daughter of God. She and Aaron have such fun together and love many of the same things and laugh at the same jokes and seem to also have been made for each other. They both have these incredible memories and love memorizing lyrics and dialog from movies. They have just celebrated their first wedding anniversary and are loving making memories together.

Gratitude #2 - My first born and his wife

2008-11-07T00:25:00.007-07:00

#2 ... I am thankful for my First Born Son and his wife! Sam is a handsome, smart, gentle, kind young adult with desires to just do things right! He has been a great "biggest" brother as he set the tone by example for his younger siblings of doing right and being happy doing it. Brie is also, just a soft, sweet, beautiful, young lady who truly knows who she is and lives that way. The two of them are a perfect match for each other. They treat each other kindly and with such great care and just let each other know with actions as well as words how much they care for each other and how much they want to help each other. They are happily living too far away from me, (hee hee hee) going to school at BYU and working and setting up a great life for themselves as they grow together.

Gratitude #1 - My Eternal Companion

2008-11-07T00:06:00.005-07:00

With this being the month of Thanksgiving I got this really great idea from Jeanette Lynton, founder and CEO of Close To My Heart... She is posting a gratitude post each day of Novemeber counting down the days to Thanksgiving. Well I got a late start since today is the 7th, so I will start with 7 things and hopefully I will remember to post everyday to Thanksgiving!
#1... I am thankful for my wonderful husband! We have been married for almost 27 years. It seems like yesterday and it seems like forever! I love his spiritual strength, his knowledge and love of learning, his gentleness, his kindness and caring, his work ethics; honesty and integrity, his leadership and his willingness to serve however and wherever our Heavenly Father would have him do.

Cassie's Choir Fall Festival

2008-11-03T13:00:00.007-07:00

Cassie had her Fall Choral Concert. It was super! The Girl's Quartet sang several songs and here is a clip of one of them singing "It's in His Kiss". Cassie is the tallest one on the far right and the one who then sits on the boys lap... GIRL! Don't get too flirty, you adorable thing! LOL!

They also sang several in a Mixed Quartet with the Boys, also their Show Choir called, "Taste of Sound". It was really a great event, there are sure some talented young people in our school!

Santa's Workshop

2008-11-02T22:15:00.008-07:00

3rd Annual SANTA'S WORKSHOP

WHEN: Saturday, November 15th

WHERE: Lexington Pines Club House; 1535 W. Thatcher Blvd., (Behind Auto Zone)

TIME: 10:00 am - 10:00 pm

Christmas gift giving the FUN way! Come and create to your hearts content... Register for the classes listed below for some extra fun gift giving this Christmas. Please register right away so we can be planning on YOU! Registration is finished but if you see a project you'd are interested in, call me, maybe I have extra. Or better yet, host a workshop with your friends, we can schedule a date and you can earn free gifts.

Projects will be offered at anytime throughout the day, so come when you can. Be sure to plan for enough time to complete your project. Some will take longer than others.

Also, enter the raffle to win a NEW Originals book or a couple of other prizes. (5 tickets for $5 or 12 tickets for $10). All ticket sales benifit Operation Smile. Here is a list of projects we will be preparing for that day!

(actual projects may vary slightly from photos shown.)

♥ Memory Keeper Box - Preserve Christmas cards, special letters, school papers, family heirlooms, mini albums, and other dimensional keepsakes in this gorgeous box. Make one for yourself and another one for a gift. Choose from Evensong, Perfect Day, or Silhouette papers. (Add-on option: Chocolate "Love Letter Rub-ons") COST - $15

♥ Acrylic Album - This dimensional, see-through album makes a great keepsake. Rub-ons add to the creativity of this fun project. Evensong papers will be used, but it isn't just for the holidays! ("Love Letter" Rub-ons come with this project and can be used for other projects too) COST - $38

♥ Note Holders - Need a gift for a teacher, co-worker or friend? These cute little Post-It note holders are great for anyone's desk! COST - $3 each or 2 for $5

♥ Christmas Cards Galore!!! (Cards not shown) - Make 25 cards; 5 each of 5 different designs. Choose a Snowman (Aspen) or traditional (Evensong Creative Basics- red and green-not shown) theme. Envelopes and accessories included. (Add-on option:"All Decked Out" Nov. SOTM or "December Word Puzzle" Stamp Set)COST - $25

♥ Artboard Message Center - Create a cute and useful message center for yourself or for a gift. CTMH's Notebook paper makes this project a fast and easy hit for anyone! (Add-on option: Black "Love Letter Rub-ons" ) COST - $17

♥ Advent Calendar - Counting down the days until that wonderful day just got more exciting and fun. Fill the boxes with goodies, scriptures, activities &/or thoughts for each days and you anxiously wait for Christmas. Cost - $17

♥ Mini Interactive Album -The possibilities with these little scrapbooks are endless! Choose from Boom-Di-Ada, Sarsaparilla, or Evensong papers.
COST - $5

♥ Event Calendar - This traditional project has received an updated look and would be a welcomed gift for anyone. Keep track of important dates year to year on this adorable calendar. (Squares at left show month toppers, not actual calendar.)
COST - $15

They are lots of fun and I look forward to spending the day with them and with each of you! Give me a call or email me and lets get you registered!

Happy "early" Holidays,
Karen Scott
Email me: karenstamps@myctmh.com

Trunk or Treat

2008-11-02T21:46:00.005-07:00

I enjoy dressing up for Halloween. I admit I hadn't done it for YEARS but always wanted to be oh so clever and come up with something fun. I was just always doing good to get the kids in their costume and didn't get that far with myself. And, Brian was really never interested in dressing up anyway. When he was made Bishop, I told him we really, really needed to dress up and be fun and participate. That has been soooooooo much fun. For a couple of years we used these ridiculous blow up costumes and everyone got a kick out of them. This year we were John McCain and Sarah Palin. Most people knew who we were, but it was kind of shocking that everyone didn't. Have you not been watching TV? Even just watching a tiny, tiny bit and you will have gotten a bit of them. We had buttons on us that said "Vote for ME" (couldn't put their actual names at the party) and then Brian had a button that said, "I'm the Maverick" and I had one that said, "I'm with the Maverick". John McCain is known as The Maverick just incase you might be one that hasn't seen any TV. Anyway, it was fun and get a good look at Brian's white hair, too funny.

Jacob is a dork... I mean, is Jacob a dork? Or is he Joe Dirt... or Joe Dirtae-USA?
Cassie came up with her costume herself. It was pretty clever. Her conversation would go like this, "Guess who I am?"... (Only one person ever guessed) then she would reply, "I'm Fragile". She was completely wrapped up in bubble wrap.

Jacob's Fall Sing - EAC

2008-10-30T22:51:00.006-07:00

Jacob is enjoying being in the Eastern Arizona College Choirs. They had their Fall Sing last week. There were 3 performances and I was able to attend 2 of them. It was excellent! Jacob sings in the Acapella Choir and the Men's Quartet. Actually it is a group of 6 not 4 so they call it "Just 6" or "The Guys".

I was just able to get a few short clips of the Acapella Choir singing some patriotic song. They were GREAT! I didn't get any clips of "Just 6", sure wish I had!

October "Kit of the Month" Club

2008-10-30T14:44:00.008-07:00

In October, this is the class I had for Scrapbooking with our "Kit of the Month". The paper, supplies and instruction brochure come as part of the package and we created the top layout at the class. This is a fun layout with a couple of techniques to learn. Plus...

You then have enough paper and supplies left to create these next two layouts as well. The paper has two sides to it and you can choose whether to use the Hollyhock (pink) side or the Crystal Blue side.

This layout is just to show versitility. It is just the same blueprint as the top layout, just changed around a little bit.

Carving Pumpkins more

2008-10-28T15:37:00.001-07:00

For Family Home Evening last night we carved pumpkins! Brian & I carved Sarah Palin and John McCain, Cassie carved a cat and a moon and Jacob carved a question mark, lol.

WOW, it was the most involved pumpkin I had ever done, usually we just do triangle eyes and a mouth with maybe some teeth, and of course a nose of some sort, but this time we actually used stencils! It was fun.

Jacob's question mark? He had a cute young lady ask him to go to the High School Girl's Choice dance (Frolic) and this is how he answered her. Buried in the pumpkin under all the pumpkin guts, he had the answer in a little baggie., with a silly little poem. Of course the answer was "yes"!

Close To My Heart Corporate Office

2008-10-23T11:20:00.007-07:00

So... when we went to see Sam & Brie earlier this month and went on a little drive to see the leaves changing, I realized we were really close to the Close To My Heart office. I asked Brian if he would drive by and let me take a picture. (If you know me, you know I love Close To My Heart and have been a consultant and my own best customers for lots of years.) There is this great sign out front and I mentioned (just joking) that I was going to get "on that sign" and be a diva. Well, I went over to stand beside the sign and let everyone take my picture and then here comes Brian... he said, "you ARE going to get on that sign and I'm going to help you." Yikes, would we get in trouble for that? There were not any "No Trespassing" signs or "Keep Off the Grass" signs and it was Sunday so they were not working and there were no cars there. So... Brian hoisted me up there (poor Brian), it was the funniest thing, my kids were just rolling... laughing. So here it is, my picture on the sign being a diva, LOL and everytime I look at it I just giggle... who is that ridiculous, Close To My Heart obsessed women!

Singing, singing, singing....

2008-10-21T21:35:00.013-07:00

That goes on alot at our house. . . singing that is. Jacob is in the quartet at Eastern Arizona College and in the Acapella Choir Group. And Cassie is in the quartet at Safford High School and the "Taste of Sound" show choir group. They both performed with their respective groups at the Graham County Fair. Unfortunately, from where I was sitting, it was too dark and all the commotion around me when Jacob performed, I couldn't get good pictures, but when Cassie performed it was light and quieter and I was sitting in a better spot... here are a few little clips of Cassie singing with Taste of Sound, Mixed Quartet and Women's Quartet!

Graham County Fair - Talent Show

2008-10-21T21:26:00.005-07:00

Cassie is in the High School Show Choir and also tried out for the Women's Quartet. She is having a blast and learning a lot and really growing with her singing. These girls are the quartet and decided independent of the High School Choirs to enter the Talent Show at the County Fair. They performed "The Star Spangled Banner" and it was awesome! I was so proud.

They won 2nd place!

Gila Valley Temple Update

2008-10-21T20:51:00.003-07:00

Well, they are supposed to break ground for our Gila Valley Temple in January! WOOHOO! And then they expect a year construction, so hopefull by January 2010 we will be attending a dedication for our new temple and then attending right here at home! I am so excited. Brian is fun to watch and listen to when he talks about it because he is so excited as well. A couple of his friends are involved in it, as engineer and one is bidding for some of the work, so we have seen the plans and have a picture of the temple from the plans... it is cool! Of course this is just a picture from plans, but just imagine it with the landscaping and color! YIPPEE!!

General Conference

2008-10-21T20:17:00.003-07:00

At the beginning of the month Brian, Jacob, Cassie and me traveled to Utah. 1) to visit Sam and Brie and 2) to go to General Conference. We had never attended General Conference in Utah before, only watched on TV or listened on the radio. What an awesome experience.

It was just like I had been told, there was a soft hum in the conference center as people gathered and saw old friends and met up with family members, etc. ... then all of a sudden there was a very quick hush come over the center as in walks the Prophet of the Lord, with his two counselors. It was incredible. The a wonderful feeling washed over you as he entered into the room.

We attended the Saturday Afternoon session, then the guys went to the Priesthood Session and then we were back again for the Sunday Morning Session. We went to the best sessions and I certaily had my favorites, President Ukdorf speaking on "Hope", Elder Holland speaking on "Angels" and Elder Wirthin speaking on "Come What May and Love It" (isn't he the cutest little man); those were my favorites in our first session to attend. Then in the Sunday Morning session, my favorites were; President Eyring speaking on "Unity", Sister Dalton speaking on "Virtue" and the concluding talk by President Monson, "Find Joy in Your Jouney, Now!" OOOOO they were so good. They were all good, but those were ones that especially touched me.

I look forward to having this opportunity again sometime, to attend conference!

October - Provo Canyon

2008-10-21T16:07:00.004-07:00

Look how beautiful it is here in Provo Canyon, Utah. This was a grove of aspen trees, pretty gold leaves with that white bark, it just looked so striking.

And low and behold if it doesn't snow on the mountain peaks the weekend we were there. Look at the layers in the picture:

Gold Apsen leaves

Green leaves

Dark Green leaves

row of miscellaneous leaves

rough mountain range

Snow covered peaks

October - Provo Canyon

2008-10-21T14:31:00.002-07:00

Here we are in Provo Canyon... It was beautiful, the leaves were starting to change and here we are amongst the Aspens.

My beautiful girl.
2 of my beautiful girls... where's Tannis?

Labor Day Camping 2008

2008-10-21T14:14:00.004-07:00

Labor Day Camping is a highlight each year!

Here is Carolyn, Janeen and I at Post Creek posing for pictures.

Close To My Heart Convention

2008-10-21T12:57:00.008-07:00

In August, I got to go to the Close To My Heart Convention in Orlando, Florida. It is always a blast and a boost in many ways. One of the best things about it, is getting to spend the time with my sister, Reecia. Here is Reecia and I with our other roomies... Jennifer (friend I was happy to see again) and Susan (new friend made).

I always enjoy getting to see good friends too!

Karen & Sundi

Pam and Tessie

This year with it being in Orlando we spent one afternoon, which wasn't long enough. We went to Epcot Center and it rained on us and the humidity....WHEW! was wow! But still, it was fun. I would liked to have gone to Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom and MGM Studio... but there just wasn't time. But here is Tessie and I at Epcot Center building our world, LOL

Lake Pleasant in July

2008-10-21T12:45:00.001-07:00

In July, we had a fun weekend when we went to Phoenix and to Lake Pleasant with Carolyn's family.

Jacob's a graduate

2008-10-21T12:25:00.002-07:00

Yes I know, this picture is from May and it is now October... I'm 6 months behind in blogging and not catching up in order, but at least you can see some pictures from the past 6 months if you are interested!

Jacob is a graduate... he is all grown up, my baby boy.. Isn't he handsome!

Momma's Car!

2008-10-21T11:42:00.004-07:00

It was absolutely crazy! Did I really do this to my car? I was tired I guess, just home from camp... alot on my mind... couldn't sleep... went for a very early (well, very early for me) drive at about 5:30 or 6:00.. thinking about where to have our family picture taken will all of Brian's family... driving through the church parking lot very slowly looking up at the mountain . . . peaceful . . . quiet . . . @#*# BAM %#@$ . . . %#@*# CRASH %#^$ . . . %^**BOOM @$*@*# . . . was that a light pole . . . well, it sure was!

Can you believe that this car is undriveable and is $4,000 damage, and I was only going about 10 miles an hour!

My Family!!!!

2008-10-21T11:32:00.003-07:00

It was soooooooo great having all my kids together this summer. It was quite an eventful time, between both Brian's parents and my parents celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary and me just coming home from Girl's Camp and then wrecking my car, hee hee hee. It was really a great time! I wish we could get together more often!

Another 50 Years and counting

2008-10-21T11:24:00.002-07:00

The week after Guy and Glenna's 50th Anniversary Party... my parents had their celebration for their 50th anniversary as well. What fun it was. We held in on back patio of the Pima LDS Church Building. We decorated with sunflowers, bails of hay, baskets, cowbow stuff and pictures. Mom & Dad had a wonderful time seeing all the people that came to congratulate them. We had fun, watching Mom & Dad have fun. All their posterity was their with the only exception being a grandson, Preston, who is serving a mission. It was great!

Cassie's Birthday fun in Phoenix

2008-10-21T11:08:00.004-07:00

I took these adorable girls to Phoenix for an overnight fun filled time. The occasion was Cassie's birthday. We stayed in a hotel that had a waterslide and other fun things. They had a pillow fight in the room and actually rearranged the beds so they could all be together, watched a movie, went to dinner, went shopping, went out for ice cream and went Ice Skating. They had a blast and I had a blast being part of it.

Cassie and her friends Shaylin and Kimi.

Guy and Glenna Scott - 50 Years and going

2008-08-21T12:10:00.003-07:00

On June 7th we had a celebration to honor Guy and Glenna and their 50 years of marriage! It was fun having all of Brian's siblings here and most of their families. Guy and Glenna were pleased with the wonderful turn out to the event and so were we all. Thanks Guy and Glenna for starting this whole thing 50+ years ago.

2008-08-09T11:20:00.000-07:00

You Are Cinderella!

Dignified and hard working. With a gentle and soft-spoken manner you have something many people don't. Patience. Even through the moments of heartbreak you're still able to hold onto all of your hopes and dreams. Bide your time; your dream will come true.

Which Disney Princess Are You?

2008-07-04T16:02:00.001-07:00

You Are Pocahantas!

Free-spirited and wise. You have a strong passionate spirit that touches and changes all who know you. The wisdom and common sense that you have is really what guides you through life. Even so, you also have a very playful side that loves adventure and excitement.

Which Disney Princess Are You?

Heritage Days - Pima

2008-04-29T09:39:00.006-07:00

Reece and Anna Jane, Honorees at Pima's Heritage Days, for lifelong Civic Service.

This is part of a display that we put together for the event. It highlights some of their interests, hobbies, and their family.

When Dad was made Postmaster in Pima, it was then an appointment, he was one of the last appointments and was appointed by Dwight D. Eisenhower, there is a placque in there representing that, he served as Postmaster for over 35 years. Dad also, has won the "Beard Contest" as several Pioneer Celebrations, and was awarded "Citizen of the Year" and earned his Eagle Scout Award as a boy. He has been on the Museum Board for many, many years and also served many different capacities of civic and church service, including Bishop and Temple Worker to just name a few of the favorite. He also has many interests such as: ATV riding, Motorcycle riding, hunting (especially quail and deer), camping, watching TV especially Football and Westerns. Just one of my favorite things about my dad is how much he "Adores" my mother. They truly are SWEETHEARTS. He is a great Father, listener, husband, uncle, brother, son, grandpa, etc.

Mom also worked for the Post Office for over 35 years. She had the opportunity to work in 4 different offices recieving much experience. She served on the board of Republican Women, was PTA President and always active in classroom activities of her children. She has always be actively involved in church service, including Temple Worker, Stake Primary President just to name a couple. Her interests include: cooking (making sure anyone that enters her home is well fed), sewing, quilting, canning, comforting and caring for anyone that needs her gentleness, geneology, shopping (finding any bargain)... these are only a few! Her greatess joy comes in her children and grandchildren.

Brant & Becky sealed forever

2008-04-29T09:34:00.002-07:00

Sam was able to come for the weekend. The very special occasion was, Brant & Becky Jones going to the temple and being sealed. Sam and Brant have been best buddies their entire life and it was so wonderful to have him come home to attend the temple with them. We sure enjoyed his visit and were glad to be at the temple with Brant and Becky as well. The only thing missing was Brie, we wish she could have joined Sam here in Arizona.

A Few More Eagle Pictures

2008-04-29T09:28:00.002-07:00

Jacob, my most recent Eagle Scouter... OK, so he earned it almost 2 years ago, but we just had his Court of Honor!

2008-04-29T09:27:00.003-07:00

Jacob is pinning on the Mother's Pin.

My Three Sons!

2008-04-29T09:23:00.004-07:00

My 3 Eagle Scouts: This makes me happy! (Aaron, Jacob & Sam)

Gila Valley Temple

2008-04-29T08:29:00.002-07:00

In a joint annoucement with the Gilbert Arizona Temple, President Thomas S. Monson has announced the construction of a temple in Arizona's Gila Valley. The temple will serve the faithful saints of southeastern Arizona—sparing them the 150-mile drive to the Mesa Arizona Temple.1Located at the base of the soaring Pinaleño Mountains, the adjoining communities of Thatcher and Safford in the Gila Valley are best known among members of the Church as the home of President Spencer W. Kimball, 12th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Though born in Salt Lake City, President Kimball was reared in Thatcher from the age of 3. And after returning home from a mission and marrying Camilla Eyring in the Salt Lake Temple, the Kimballs settled in Safford to raise their children and run an insurance business. In the early 1980s, President Kimball initiated an unprecedented worldwide temple-building program. A temple in the Gila Valley is a tremendous tribute to his memory.

2008-04-28T00:35:00.007-07:00

Sam giving him the Eagle Charge-

Anything You Can Do, I Can Do Better

2008-04-27T23:54:00.005-07:00

Cassie and Jacob sang a duet at the Ward Talent Show. If you ask me, their song was the hit of the evening. I videoed it, but unfortunately, they had turned off the lights in the room and it came out all blurry.... SHOOT! You can still listen (don't pay attention to any of the simple and few mistakes, LOL) You can see them in the picture, but I wish you could see them in the video and their interaction as they sang, that was the best part! And thanks to Tannis for playing their accompaniment.

Ward Talent Show

2008-04-27T23:37:00.003-07:00

Last night we had a Ward Talent Show. It was fun. The Bishopric and the Missionaries did the opening act. Too cute! The one in the grey pants especially, since it's Brian! Ü

Washington DC

2008-04-03T23:16:00.010-07:00

Brian, Jacob, Cassie and I just got back from Washington DC. We went with the Safford High School Choir. There were 28 high school students and 7 chaperones. We had a great time. I was a little stressed a time or two with my typical worries that someone would be lost from the group or something, but the kids did wonderful. There were very little squabbles and the were very respectful and had a great experience. Here are all the students with their choir director in front of the visitor center at Arlington Cemetery.

They experienced The Wall, The Lincoln Memorial, The Washington Memorial, The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier & The Changing of the Guard, The Capital Building, Smithsonian Museums, The Metro, The White House, Mount Vernon (George Washington's Homestead) The Washington DC Temple, some fabulous Restaurants, some fun "hotel with your friends" experience, Cherry Blossoms and much more.

While they were there, the students also participated in a Music Festival. They recieved a Silver Medal for their performance but also recieved the "Spirit" Award for the event. We were so proud of them!

NEPHEWS!!!

2008-03-26T14:16:00.006-07:00

Two of my nephews, William and Andrew were baptized on their birthday and another nephew, Preston has just left on his mission this month. What a wonderful thing it is. It is so wonderful to have the gospel in our lives and to share those exciting time with your extended family.

Cassie is a tennis player!

2008-03-26T14:10:00.002-07:00

Cassie and Mariaka Depain are doubles partners on her high school JV team. They played their first match last Thursday. Although both of them lost their singles match, they won their doubles match. They were so excited. Cassie has got a pretty good stroke on her. She's destined to be a really good tennis player through the years. Yeah Cassie and Mariaka.

Look at Cassie serving.

The Desert is BEAUTIFUL!

2008-03-26T14:00:00.002-07:00

WOW, the desert really is beautiful. We traveled to Phoenix 3 times in a week and a half and each time I loved driving through the POPPIES. In some places is looks as if Heavenly Father must have literally dumped a huge can of orange paint and it spilled generously over the hills. "Whenever I hear the song of a bird.....I'm glad that I live in this beautiful world, Heavenly Father created for me." These pictures don't do it justice.

Allison Can Read

2008-03-26T13:52:00.000-07:00

Allison and Amanda spent the week and Nonnie and Papa Scott's while Nick and Shellie were gone to Maryland. Cassie spent a little time with them but I'm sure it wasn't enough. They just love Cassie and Cassie loves them. Here they are glad to see their Mom when she came to get them. They were pretty excited to see Joshie too. Allison is reading a story to her Mom and Amanda.

Doo Wah Ditty - DOO RAG?

2008-03-23T21:45:00.000-07:00

Ok here is the story behind the DU-RAG!!!!

Cassie and I were shopping in Phoenix with Carolyn and my Mom. And "YES" we were having a blast. We ended up in the $.99 Store. Looking at all the goofy and fun things. We saw this DOO-RAG. I commented that we should get it for Jacob (totally kidding) and Cassie said, "YA, we should... that would be sooooo funny. It could be in his Easter Basket. So we bought it. I almost forgot about it but found it last night and tucked it in for Jacob. When he came out this morning, he commented, "I can't believe that the Easter Bunny thought to give me a Du-Rag." But true to the whole idea of it, it has truly been the joke of the day. That was it's purpose, to make us laugh and especially to make Jacob laugh. We did and he did!