Friday, January 21, 2011

Class Act

This past week I was able to enjoy lunch with some amazing friends of mine. As I sat across the table from these ladies, and I do mean LADIES I begin to think about all the struggles they have been through. Life has not always been kind to them, they have had great loss, they have endured criticism and they have not always been perfect, but at the end of the day they have made great choices and sacrifices for their families. They have been faithful and supportive and consistent in their lives and relationships. They have put value on their marriages, friendships and reputation. They have been a constant in their children's lives and a rock for their husbands. I am so proud of them. So proud of them. I truly count it a great honor to have them as a sounding board when I need advice, or just an ear to listen. I always want to have someone with character and integrity to turn to when needed. My parents always told me growing up, you are who you hang around with. If that is the case, I feel pretty proud.

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

My Favorite


I fell in love with this lady years ago. She has such love, wisdom and humility. She, in her many quotes reminds me of the person I strive to be.

"Love life, engage in it, give it all you've got. Love it with a passion, because life truly does give back, many times over, what you put into it”
nevastopdancin Maya Angelou quote

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Love This

Have you ever wondered "what is the secret to a long and happy marriage?" Our collection of tried and true marriage advice tips will help you answer that very question! These secrets to a happy marriage come straight from the horse's mouth -- those who are happily married!


1.Never assume.


2.Compliment more than you criticize.


3.For each time you vent about your husband/wife to your friends, tell three positive stories.


4.Remember that it is ok to do things differently (e.g. there is more than one way to peel a potato or fold the laundry).


5.Always make time for the two of you.


6.Marry someone that you enjoy listening and talking to.


7.Remember that marriage is sometimes a bed of roses and sometimes there are thorns.


8.Remember that the best gift that you can give your children is to love their mother/father.


9.Be fair! Split the housework, spending money, etc evenly. This way you are never resentful of your partners contributions (or lack of) or expenditures.


10.Never go to bed angry. (Unless it's 3a.m. and you're exhausted, angry, and not thinking straight.)


11.Remember that people do fight. It's how you do it that matters.


12.Before starting an argument, consider if it's really worth it.


13.Fight with pillows.


14.Agree to disagree.


15.Never, ever mention the "D" word (divorce).


16.Do you want to be right or do you want to be married?


17.Respect each other's privacy.


18.Remember that "love is like childhood. You need to learn to share."


19.Marriage is not 50/50, it's two people giving 100/100 all of the time.


20.Surprise each other now and then.


21.The secret to a happy marriage is two TV's!


22.Have date night!


23.Never pass up an opportunity to say "I love you".


24.Hold hands.


25.Hug & kiss every day (several times a day actually!).


26.Always believe that you got better than you deserved.


27.Be quick to say "I'm sorry".


28.Choose the one you love, then love the one you choose.


29.Keep the in-laws out of your marriage!


30.Love isn't always a feeling, it's a decision.


31.Hang in there. It's worth it.


32.Play nice, play often, love much.


33.Never air your dirty laundry as a couple in public.


34.Never keep secrets from each other.


35.Be each other's champion. No matter what, take your husband or wife's side first!


36.Communication is the key!


37.Always respect each other.


38.Never underestimate the power of a good belly-laugh and don't be afraid to laugh at yourself.


39.It's the little things that matter most.


40.Never use the words 'Always' and 'Never' in a fight.


41.It's ok to argue, but never use curse words to express your anger.


42.Never compare your marriage to others. What you see on the outside is not always what it is on the inside.

Another Adventure

As you know Jay and I are always up to something. We love to go exploring and get out and see things, we are not content to just sit around and let life pass us by. We decided this last weekend to get out there and do some hiking and shooting. The weather was amazing and I got some of the beautiful sunshine that I am missing so badly! We had a great hike and then some lunch. We then decided to go a little further up the canyon and of course got the truck stuck. :) After about two hours of digging and digging and digging, we were able to free ourselves from the sinking sand trap. We both had a great laugh about that one. I am so lucky to have this incredible partner by my side that never gives up and I truly trust to get us out of any situation. I love our adventures together and cannot wait to see what our next one brings!












Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Baby Boom



This coming year is proving to be the year of the boy! Not only am I going to be the Tia to a new nephew in a few months but two of my dearest friends will become mommies for the first time and are having boys also. Today I was able to have lunch with my friend Natausha, she is sporting the cutest little belly! I am so excited for my friends and can hardly wait to meet Zander, Austin and Rev!

Monday, January 3, 2011

Christmas Vacation

Over Christmas vacation we had so much fun with our kidos. We went to the snow, had friends over, went shopping and spent lots of quality time together. Which is really what it all about. We also took an educational trip to La Brea Tar Pits. I went there for a field trip back when I was in fifth grade and I remember loving it! The kids had a great time and were full of questions. They couldn't believe the size of some of the fossils and were in awe of the current tar and what happened to the animals so many years ago. Nothing better than fun and learning together.

I treasure all of our time spent together and am so sad at how fast time is flying by. You truly have to make the best of each day together and make memories that they will treasure. Here are some pics from our adventures. Enjoy!