Archer News Network

Little kid prayers are the best

2012-01-27T21:33:00.000-08:00

Today Cru gave his first prayer by himself and it went like this:

Dear Heavenly father, Thank you for this day. Thank you for getting rid of all the monsters and tigers. Please bless that all the puppies will stay. Name of Jesus Christ amen.

Probably one of the best prayers I've ever heard.

Love him.

Hormones bring us to Jesus!

2012-01-17T13:49:00.000-08:00

So I'm sure the title of this post sounds if not blasphemous then ridiculous, but I do have a theory. I say theory as much of my insight could just be radical chemical imbalances, caused by just recently giving birth to a child, as opposed to true inspiration.(which I'm sure is typically the case with me) Either way I give you something to think about.

I like most women do not like hormones. For 7-10 days out of every month I go from an optimist to a pessimist. I feel physically drained. I feel extremely burdened from every ailment. I experience sorrows and emotions that stem from absolutely nothing. I have extreme anger( I'm sure joby can elaborate on this) and no hope for anything. Hormones are simply obnoxious. I hate them. I think I notice them more now that I have family and can't just pamper myself all day. ( ie I notice them more now that I can't be selfish with my time) I have researched every possible solution to counteract their effects such as exercise, nutrition, vitamins, meditation, positive thinking, midol midol midol. I have yet to find a cure all and just have to try to get through this time without ruining someone's life.

You know how people find the most outlandish things to tie to the Gospel?(like Harry Potter? Yes that was a dig at you Kristen..hehe)

Well here is where I tie hormones to Jesus...

I was reading in Isaiah 53, which makes me cry (even when I am not hormonal) and for some reason I was pondering this plight women have to bare each month. Isaiah 53 has been called the "song of the suffering servant" (kindof sounds like it could be talking about a womans struggle with PMS. hah)

It is actually one of the greatest prophesies of the Messiah written in the Old Testament. It talks about Christs suffering and triumph. As I read about how he was "despised and rejected" esteemed as stricken(viewed with the same disdain of a leper) And how he was a "man of sorrows aquainted with grief" not only because he carried the burden of our sins on his shoulders, but because he knew the fate of those who opposed him and it cause him great emotional pain, I thought of how I acted while experiencing the emotional turmoil hormones cause.

He had the greatest spiritual/physical burdens placed on him daily and yet he still got up each day and lived it to the fullest. He didn't release anger on others for his burden. He acted. He didn't let his burden slow down his mission. He continued to act as a God. I think sometimes I still see the Savior as I did as a child. As some kind of super hero that was above the emotions of the world. I forget sometimes that he felt sorrow as we do. He felt betrayal, ridicule, unacceptance, and pain as we do. I am so touched by his ministry everytime I consider the love he gave though he was treated so poorly. Even the small number that stood by him in his earthy life ended up rejecting him.

I began to see this physical/emotional burden women have to endure every month as a small taste of what Christ felt everyday of his ministry.

How could he accomplish so much, with so much against him? How did he accomplish so much carrying so much pain and sorrow?

I have never seen a purpose for hormones which is why I hate them. However, I realized these brief hicupps in our emotions are a time we can become more like the Savior. Its easy to serve others and extend love when we feel good, but how much better will we be if we can do this even when we don't. To be happy, productive loving, longsuffering and in service to others while hormonal...to me this is what it means to truely triumph in life.(hah) Attaching a purpose to hormones such as spiritual growth and changing focus to the Savior and his example of what he did amist pain, sorrow and rejection might be the best remedy to that monthly misery.

Chaos spelled backward says family

2012-01-12T06:56:00.000-08:00

This is some of the footage of my and Jobys first week as parents of 3 under the age of 3.
Chaos ensued as I was still healing from ripping completely, yet again (which is illustrated in my hobbled walk/jog in the video) and couldn't do much while Joby was working. So you will see a messy house, unclothed or half clothed children, food fights with anything Cru and Sage could reach on the bottom shelf of our pantry, Clean Laundry thrown down the stairs for laughs, a batman killing cowboy and excitement for a new little brother to come to our family.

I will admit I was scared out of my mind for 3, but....its not so bad once you get a routine down. However, this statement may change once Von is walking and I have three children scaling my Fridge and pantry shelves, throwing miscellaneous items in the toilet and trying to escape down the street to the neighbors.

I'll break your toys!

2011-11-30T10:17:00.000-08:00

Today Cru's cousins came over to play and Cru was being stingy with his toys and kept taking them from his cousins exclaiming "These are mine!" I angrily told him that his cousins always share when we go to their house and if he didnt share I was going to break and throw away all of his toys!!
In my frustration and freaking out on him, the Spirit whispered "Speak softly and he will understand."

How could speaking softly be more effective than threatening toy disposal? Right?

I thought about times when I was learning a new position at work and made a mistake or didn't carry it out correctly. Those who yelled at me for my blunders just created resentment in me towards them and my work. However, those who spoke calmly and kindly and explained why we do things a certain way and how to approach it, made me want to do better. With a patient approach learning took place.
I get overwhelmed at times when I start to contemplate all of great character and principle I am suppose to instill in my children. How am I suppose to do that? Luckily we have a loving Heavenly Father that through his perfect parenting and teaching us with love, we learn how to teach his sons and daughters.
I find that these teaching moments are whispered more frequently when I am dilligent in my morning scripture study and prayer. Its nice that we are not alone in raising children. I am so grateful we have the sacred teachings of the spirit that help refine my character and explain more effective ways to teach my children righteous principles.

**Interestingly after this post I turned on the TV to watch the BYU daily devotional and they had chose to rebroadcast Elder Bednars April 2010 conference address which talks about teaching your children to Act and not be acted upon. Coincedence...probably not. And my learning continues.

Evolution

2011-11-21T07:30:00.000-08:00

Motherhood evolution:

This was me with two kids:

This is me with 3 kids

Any questions?

Fall

2011-11-01T12:58:00.000-07:00

41 goin on 42 weeks...

2011-10-27T10:27:00.000-07:00

I look in my closet everyday and say hmmm should I wear the black stretchy pants or the black stretchy pants. Options are extremely limited after 40 weeks.

Livin the best Timeline

2011-10-19T16:08:00.000-07:00

So Joby and I were watching the latest episode of Community last week where a simple roll of the die created a whole different timeline and chain of events. Afterward both Joby and I pondered where we would be had we chosen different roads in our life.
The following is the timeline I contemplated:
5 years ago I had just graduated in Broadcast Journalism. I was working with my friend Michelle at Fox 6 San Diego in the Photog department as we put together our field reporting resume tapes.
This was her:

This was me:

Both of us were offered Field Reporting positions in small markets to begin our career. Both of us were beyond excited to be News Reporters.

Here is where my timeline changed...

Michelle took the position.

I did not.

This is her 4 and a half years later:

An Anchor in a large news market in Texas

And this is me 4 and half years later:

40 weeks pregnant with our third kid. Living in a small town that resembles Radiator springs where winter lasts 8 months out of the year and sucks every last ounce of moisture from my skin and hair. Living in a house whose outside makes it look like it was transported from West Valley and I can't forget our amazing view of the trailer park. Did I mention I look and feel like a cow?

Michelle is wearing cute pant suits, interviewing political candidates, great authors and world renown scientists. Shes jumping out of planes with her photog, reporting on scene at major events meeting influencial people, getting major recognition and awards and enjoying the adenaline and excitement that working in the news brings.

I am wearing dresses that look like muumuus because I cant fit into anything because of my belly. I play at the park, get mac and cheese thrown at me, change diapers, change cloths, do laundry 24/7, referee fights, clean up messes, never get sleep, endure tantrums and whining...etc In conclusion I am a Mom

So obviously, my life could have been alot more glamorous. So why did I not take the Reporting Position? I like to blame Joby as I was offered the positions right after we were married and he did not want to move for my career. However, ultimately if I truly wanted the position and conveyed how important it was to me I have no doubt he would have moved.

I didn't realize it, but I had made my decision not to be a field reporter right before I was offered the career. See, you enter the news field thinking you are going to change the world, but as you are more exposed to the organization of the media you realize you are simply a puppet to the stations agenda. I was in countless producer meetings where reporters would offer excellent story ideas. Never once were they accepted. They were always assigned the stories that were approved by big media conglomerates and basically those who funded the station. I would have to report on things I didn't agree with and not in my tone, but the tone of the station. I began to realize journalistic liberty did not exist. Additionally the adrenaline in news is very addicting. I wonder if this would have made me put career above having children.

It was then that I made the decision(with the promptings from a loving Heavenly Father that knew it was difficult for me to give up what I thought was my dream) that I could be much more influential in the world if I raised a family in the Gospel so they could go out and be examples to others.

5 years later I am grateful and confident I chose the best timeline because I have these precious irreplaceable gems. Life is good

“Happiness does not depend on what happens outside of you but on what happens inside of you. It is measured by the spirit with which you meet the problems of life.” It will often be necessary for all of us to choose between having a good time and leading a good life. -President Harold B. Lee

Bridal showers can be fun

2011-09-28T10:48:00.000-07:00

Ah.... fun Times. So great when all the girls can get together, especially if its in celebration.

Sums bridal shower and advice Part1

Part 2

The Archer DNA "wuss strand" surfaces again.

2011-09-08T10:59:00.000-07:00

So a little over a year ago I posted this:

Sadly, Crus bravery has not improved as seen below.

Somebodys genes are to blame and I can confidently say they are not mine as I have seen Joby cry like a little girl when he accidentally steps on Crus plastic farm toys.

Motherhood and the regression of my intelligence

2011-08-07T11:34:00.000-07:00

I and Cru's ongoing argument:

ME: "Cru do not unlatch your seatbelt." (it doesn't really matter what I say his response is still the same)

CRU: "Mom you just said poopies!"

ME: I did not say poopies or anything reminiscent of it I made reference to your seatbelt!

CRU: " You said poopies!"

ME: Cru! I did not!

CRU: Yes you did!

ME: "NO I DIDN'T! Nor have I ever said poopies! Stop saying that!

CRU: (laughing) You said poopies!

ME: I DID NOT SAY POOPIES!!!!!"

And so the intellectual battle continues.....

And in other news....so does the confusion...

Sage will not walk and its frustrating me. The confusion is that she won't walk,

but she will do this:

Open the toilet lid, climb up and sit in it.

I don't understand.

"as they walked and walked and walked AND WALLLLked"

2011-07-25T16:21:00.000-07:00

We just returned from trek 2 weeks ago and this is the first year Pioneer Day has meant more than parades and fireworks.

Joby and I were called as Ma and Pas for trek back in February, to give us time to prepare, and were told the experience would change our lives. Walking in a bonnet and dress through Wyoming is going to change my life?

Right

Well it did.

I use to think the Pioneers were just "some people that did something hard a long time ago." Luckily being called to this gave Joby and I the desire to study these great Saints and what we learned and experienced will forever inspire the best in us.

There were moments walking on the trail where they walked that were so sacred not one person in our company of 250 could contain their emotions. A wave of humble cries slowly broke out and you knew you were on hallowed ground.

The pioneers reached some of the greatest character possible in this life. They came to know the Savior personally on earth and their examples of Faith, love and sacrifice will continue to be a compass through my own challenges.

If you ever get the chance to go on trek...take it.

Great read:Fire of the Covenant

Great Movie: 17 Miracles...(even Joby cried ..don't tell him I told you)

Hands down...Best Holiday

2011-07-08T14:23:00.000-07:00

The 4th of July has always been my favorite holiday.

Maybe I like independence and my Country...

Maybe I don't like the British or their teeth...

Maybe I like fireworks, festivities and family parties..

or maybe I just like Joby who happens to have been born on the 4th...

The culmination of all of these makes for a delightful experience.

Family BBQ/ Pool party and fireworks at my parents and then onto the Archers for more fun!

Cru got his first pair of Boots from Grandma and Pop Archer this year!

We are on Day 4 of him refusing to take them off for bedtime.

A couple months ago Callie told my nephews, when we were out hiking, to pick some flowers and give them to me. Both Landon and Kason picked a flower and handed them to me saying "Here Julie!" Cru must have wanted the smile and hugs I gave them because ever since that day if Cru sees any flowers he will pick one for me and while reaching say "Here Julie!"

its the only time he calls me Julie instead of mom and its so ridiculously cute.

In the words of Will Ferrell..."AMERICA!!"

I'm one and ridiculously cute

2011-06-16T20:04:00.000-07:00

I like the the pool, the beach, eating sand,

wrestling with my brother and...

cake! And I just turned one!

Easily amused

2011-05-30T20:02:00.000-07:00

Ah...if only we were all so easily amused as children.

Maybe Florida is our next move....

2011-05-28T15:05:00.000-07:00

I married into a crazy awesome family!! (Archer/Colmans.) Yet another wonderful family reunion and so great to have Katie and Evan come with us! I wish I had footage of everyone. After this trip Florida is in the running for I and Joby's next move.

For 10 years I went to the beach almost everyday. Since moving I haven't been in 2 years. It was beyond refreshing...

It will never lose my affection.

Sidenote: katie and I are both 18 weeks prego in this video. look how AMAZING she looks and how "not so amazing" I look. (ugh.) luckily, these pictures grossed me out enough that I got back on live the life and have lost 5 of the 10 pounds of overindulgence in the first tri-mester. I miss my metabolism from my 20's....

Stuff

2011-03-28T13:38:00.000-07:00

It is extremely easy just by looking at a toy to decipher if it is from China or the U.S.

China's English branding is delightfully bad. It typically lacks punctuation, prepositions or plural forms of nouns.

This is one is our favorites, so far, because it incorporates all three grammar mistakes listed above. It is a bucket of little plastic safari animals...I mean animal.

It makes Joby and I deliriously happy when we discover China toys in Cru's toy collection because we get to incorporate the new lingo into our daily conversations for the rest of the week. For instance, today I followed Joby around the store with random items stating "Lovely and fun (whatever I was holding) these are what you want."

I have been searching to see if they also have other lines like "The world of insect" or "The world of person."

I also like that they inform me that "these are what I want" because it takes the annoying decision making process out of buying toys.

In other news.. I was giving my Relief Society lesson yesterday and we were discussing the dangers of carnal security. After people had supplied some examples of carnal security I began to move on to the next subject when randomly someone just said

"boats."

And I don't even know who said it, but it was so funny because it was said out of the blue and with complete disgust. It was said in such a way you would think boats were the downfall of society. I just started laughing and I couldn't move on unless I addressed it so I just stated "Mark my words if you own aboat you are being lured by the adversary into carnal security." Everyone was laughing, but I wish I would have found out who it was so I could ask for some background on her animosity towards boats. For the rest of the day anytime there were breaks in conversation I would just say "boats."

In other other news.. Cru pushed Sage in the bathtub. So she got right next to his face and screamed the most high pitch shrill scream I have ever heard in my life. It literally hurt my ears.Cru started crying hysterically because it scared him. I was laughing so hard I couldn't breath. Nice to know my little chica can already fight back.

candy confidence

2011-03-16T16:02:00.001-07:00

I received this picture and text today...

"Hey Julie remember us????

You can't hurt us anymore!!!!!!!!"

Apparently the candy community is getting a little cocky knowing I have quit them.

Juice puppy era

2011-03-04T22:12:00.000-08:00

Cru loves to dance. We typically designate 7:00p.m. after hours at the Archer house and we blast the salsa music and dance until I pass out on the floor. My endurance currently gives up at 7:45. I don't know how I use to dance until 3, sometimes 6, in the morning.

This video is a couple months old but I love it because it shows his sweet complex arm movements. Additionally, this was the juice puppy era so he would randomly say "juice" or "puppy" the whole time he was dancing. You can kindof hear it on the tape.

His current motivation is still puppies but he's added horses to the mix.

Mr. Mom

2011-02-28T10:19:00.000-08:00

So I've decided I'm going to slowly delegate all my responsibilities to Cru so I can do whatever I want.

forgotten payback

2011-02-16T20:39:00.000-08:00

Joby and I like to try and out embarrass each other. It somehow deepens our bond.

For instance if I ever get up to go to the restroom after finishing a meal at a restaurant Joby likes to yell "If you go throw up your meal again I'm not paying for it!" He waits until I am walking past a table of people.

I like to make up things Joby says in conversation with people we have just met like "See Joby they aren't stuck up like you said or mid conversation with them turn to Joby in disgust and say "STOP farting!" Or when he makes a sarcastic remark about someone if he has made me really mad I will tell them. "Joby thinks your hair looks like a mushroom exploded"

This is just a small taste of our sick little game, but more often we end up laughing to the point of urination as opposed to getting angry in our attempt to out embarrass each other.

However...

I just remembered an uneven score we have from a flight we took shortly after I had Cru.

I was emotionally vulnerable due to just having a baby and couldn't retaliate.

Everyone had boarded and it was unusually quiet. No one on the plane was really talking

No one except Joby who loudly stated "Ewwww why don't you put on extra deodorant when you know we are traveling!"

Luckily we are planning a trip this year that will require a plane ride.

There will be recompense.

Once upon a time...

2011-02-13T14:23:00.000-08:00

A little over 5 years ago we went to Costa Rica.

At the time Joby and I were just friends.

You would have thought Jason and Joby were the ones to hook up after the trip...

(see video)

But the night before we left Joby and I stayed up late and talked on the balcony.

He expressed how he couldn't wait to get married so he could spoil his wife and treat her like a princess.

It worked.

2 months later he moved from Florida back to San Diego by me.

I gave up latinos

Joby gave up his bank account.

14 months later we were married.

And four years later we are still living happily ever after

Happy Anniversary!

I've been thinking....

2011-01-28T21:34:00.000-08:00

For the past 3 to 4 years I have felt the strength and urgency more than ever to purify my life and cleanse myself of any and every weakness that would prevent me experiencing the spirit to the fullest. I'm sure becoming a parent is an influential part as you want to be the example of the principles you are teaching your children, but there is more to it. We all know we are living in the last days. I remember being referred to as millennial children in talks growing up and we know the Apostles and possibly the Prophet who will be the Apostles and Prophet during the millenium are here. (see talk). We can see mens/ womans (maybe our own ) hearts failing as prophesied in our daily encounters. Analyzing my own mind I see my own worldly snares I am vulnerable to. I feel like I have had things come into my life that have helped free much of my captivity so I could further prepare myself and family. One being the revelation to leave California and move to Utah. (I also find it interesting that so many people are flocking back to Utah. Even those without family here)That blessing not only brought us closer to family, but has taken us almost completely out of debt. Something that I believe would never happen had we stayed in California. Another is emotional healing, through the Atonement, from some heartaches in life. I feel like a whole person again. Another is Live the life. Its aprogram that gave me the proper formula for taking care of ones body and perfectly following the word of wisdom. I felt addicted to sugar and had many failed attempts at alleviating it from my life. Since following live the life I have not only almost completely absolved my addiction to sugar but also to preservatives and every unnatural craving induced food source in our society. I eat for sustainability not for the serotonin high. Its a powerful feeling. It wasn't easy but so worth it. I had always admired John the Baptist because he lived off of locust and honey. He ate purely for sustenance and that was because he didn't want to have any societal appetites that impede his communication with God. I have never understood 3:7 to the degree I do today. "for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save heshall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them." Heavenly Father has placed many people, books and things in my life to help me accomplish things he has commanded me to do. I also know the Saviors spirit has been poured more abundantly across the earth as I have never felt the strength to accomplish thesethings as I have these past 3 years.

Through Study we know the signs and they are all around us. We know that the seventh seal was opened in the year 2000 (one reference)signifying the last days and the half hour of silence in Heaven before Christ comes. And thanks to John in Revelations we know what will happen during the half our of silence and its definitely not a glamorous time(Revelations chapter 8) In Millennial messiah Bruce R McConkie claims we can calculate what a half and hour is in gods time. He stated that if 1000 years is one day to God then you divide 1000 by 24 to see if you can find out how long one of God’s hours is, and it’s just under 42 years. so according to McConkie a half an our is just under 21 years. Additionally that is only correct if our calandars are correct. We know that they are correct and God goes by our calandar(gregorian) by D&C 20:1. So his speculation is that we may not know the time or hour....but we know the year of the millennium. If this is true, the next 10 years should be interesting....

Regardless if the millennium is in 2021 or 2091 I know there is a storm coming as I can feel the urgency to get my house in order. Additionally John spoke in Revelations of the beast that will rise up and place us in a under a totalitarian government. (Revelations 13) It has been speculated that this beast that was "wounded to death" but then "healed" is making reference to the Soviet union. Which I agree with. The evil soviet union empire was crushed under Reagan, but I saw this the other day and it was unnerving "Restoring the Soviet Union" I find it interesting that John refers to the powerful beast in Revelations as a bear and so does this article. I thought to myself, "And it begins..."after reading this and their talks of restoring the scary KGB.

I loved this video. Its was very nicely done. It doesn't induce fear or contention like most "warning" videos. It brings peace through the Savior. Because ultimately we should not fear but have faith in our Savior. He is "the only way"

Additionally I love this artist. Jon Mcnaughton. My sister introduced me to him. You can click on any person or image in his painting to see information behind his symbolism.

Not really a fun post....just something thats been on my mind

I learned it by watching you dad

2010-12-20T20:28:00.000-08:00

Like Father...

Like son..

Sage is almost 6 months. Time to have another one!

2010-12-11T12:34:00.001-08:00

I'm not pregnant, but if Joby knew I said I wanted to get pregnant again he would probably get a vasectomy.

He thinks two is perfect.

I think six is perfect.

This should be interesting...

Look at me!

I'm sixth months in a week!

And I'm ridiculously cute.

Its strange, I have opposing forces working within me. I get stressed just watching my sister handle 3 under 3 yet I have this pull to keep having kids fast. I occasionally watch The Duggars. I am fascinated with the amazing patience and laid back disposition of the parents. I'm pretty sure it would be impossible not to acquire great patience after 19 kids. I love how their family functions like a small corporation and everyone works together on different levels for the success of the individual and family as a whole. Everyone is happy and loves to serve their brothers and sisters. Its actually quite inspiring. And you can tell the parents have crossed that difficult threshold of living the law of consecration. Its not "all about them" anymore. It is about their family and serving others. Its hard to give ones life completely to the Lord as people such as they have. You almost question if by doing so,by losing your life in service to others, he can make you happier then you yourself could. I loved Apostle Christoffersons talk reflections of a conscecrated life in which he states, "True success in this life comes in consecrating our lives—that is, our time and choices—to God’s purposes."

Having children puts you on the road to living the law of concecration. Through challenges and looking beyond your own happiness as a parent you gain eternal character that can't be achieved merely by attending to your own needs and happiness. That character blesses your family, friends and communiy. I love being a mom...have i achieved that spiritual growth where I forget about me in leu of others needs... not even close. Do i sometimes look back to my exciting life before kids? Yes. Do i want to go back. No.

Little prince and princesses make life sweeter.

Bring on the terrible twos!

2010-11-17T14:19:00.000-08:00

Cru is pretty much the most hilarious person Joby and I know and we love watching him grow up. He's 2!!!!

In other news, I just happened to see this facebook message chain my friend commented on. I don't know any of the people in this post but one response to the girls status made me do a double take.....

Though Erica was always suspicious of Elly it was her use of the Facebook "like" status that,like so many others, finally revealed her true sinister nature

Grass is cool...the legal kind

2010-11-05T12:23:00.001-07:00

We finally have grass!! Just in time for it to snow on it and kill it. Yay!!

Whatever, we will enjoy our 6 or 7 days of green grass.

We pretty much spent last night sitting on our porch staring at it and waving to neighbors who offered grateful salutes for fixing the eyesore of our street.

(Sadly this is a crappy overexposed pic, and yet my skin is still pretty much that same pasty white color. Bring on the orange-ish hue mist on tan! When we were dating Joby use to make fun of my mist on tan saying he understood our chemistry as he was always attracted to basketballs.)

I remember before I was married and actually owned property, my brother sent me pictures of his freshly laid sod at his house. I remember thinking "whoo hoo grass...I could care less." It's interesting how your enthusiasm for different things in life increase as you experience it firsthand. I now understand. I was nieve to the joys of owning grass. Don't be surprised if you receive a text with a picture of our yard.

I think Cru and his cousins would prefer a dirt Yard. They have had a blast digging, pushing their dump trucks, eating and tracking the dirt all through our house.

Why are they still knocking!

2010-10-31T18:46:00.001-07:00

We have a big sign on the door that says, "Out of candy Sorry," because we didn't want to give candy out on the Sabbath. However,they are still knocking and waiting for us to open the door. We are hiding by our stairs and looking out the window at them. They staring right at our sign and continuing to knock. I heard that one in four trick or treaters are illiterate. Okay so I just made that up to give understanding to this situation.

Seriously stop knocking!

Happy Halloween

More Archer family

2010-10-18T10:32:00.000-07:00

Follow the Prophet

2010-10-11T12:31:00.001-07:00

Thought I would post the link to this talk since it was referenced three times in Conference.

The fourteen fundamentals in following the Prophet -President Ezra Taft Benson

President Thomas S. Monson

His voice-the most important scripture.

1. The prophet is the only man who speaks for the Lord in everything.

2. The living prophet is more vital to us than the standard works.

3. The living prophet is more important to us than a dead prophet.

4. The prophet will never lead the church astray.

5. The prophet is not required to have any particular earthly training or credentials to speak on any subject or act on any matter at any time.

6. The prophet does not have to say “Thus Saith the Lord,” to give us scripture.

7. The prophet tells us what we need to know, not always what we want to know.

8. The prophet is not limited by men’s reasoning.

9. The prophet can receive revelation on any matter, temporal or spiritual.

10. The prophet may advise on civic matters.

11. The two groups who have the greatest difficulty in following the prophet are the proud who are learned and the proud who are rich.

12. The prophet will not necessarily be popular with the world or the worldly.

13. The prophet and his counselors make up the First Presidency—the highest quorum in the Church.

14. The prophet and the presidency—the living prophet and the First Presidency—follow them and be blessed—reject them and suffer.

*Each prophet seems to have vauable experiences and revelation specific to the generation they preside over. I was pondering President Monsons stories of caring for the 84 widows and trying to see how it relates to our situation and what valuable direction it gives us. I think he is trying to tell us that the best way to get through these trying economic and uncertain times is through service.

As the Savior taught, "For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.” (Luke 9:24) So as President Monson lost his life in service to the 84 widows he brought great purpose to his life and happiness during a challenging time and ultimately found his life.

I know in difficult times I have a tendency to become so focused on my needs not being met that I can't hear the distress cries of others. I also know that when I only live for myself i never move forward and have an apathetic outlook on life as I have no purpose. The Prophet knows our needs and that they can be met through service to others.

I like what I read on another blog:

Often we live side by side but do not communicate heart to heart. There are those within the sphere of our own influence who, with outstretched hands, cry out, “Is there no balm in Gilead?” (emphasis added)

This seems to be counsel that we need to go beyond the shallow conversation of everyday if we are to comfort those with deep hurt. Even if we can’t take away another person’s struggle, we can alleviate their loneliness and isolation, which will make life easier for them to bear. Communicating heart to heart is another way that we can escape that shriveling self-centered focus.

I'm grateful to friends, family and the Gospel that allow me the chance to serve so I can live a purpose filled life.

Don't you want to kiss her face off!

2010-09-29T13:42:00.000-07:00

Its official

My daughter is prettier than me

I was afraid this would happen

I'm pretty sure my jealousy will drive me to obsessive amounts of plastic surgery in my forties

Don't you want to kiss her face off!! I love her!

He knows why

2010-09-17T14:38:00.000-07:00

Can someone please do this to my husband...

And yes, he does know why.

In less hostile news, this was on our TV this morning. I was so groggy from bad sleep I thought it was a weird mind trick. I don't know if its the growling asian boy or the toy dinosaur or the combination(likely), but I could watch this over and over.(even though it's horrible video quality)

Joby: my bundle of joy

2010-09-09T23:21:00.000-07:00

Joby asked "why do only babies get to have cute pictures taken with cool hats and props?"

Nuff Said

Less disturbing pictures:

Boys are rad

2010-08-31T16:24:00.000-07:00

The only thing cooler than a nephew is 3 aspiring cowboy nephews

Your inner child makes life more interesting

2010-08-30T09:27:00.000-07:00

Last time I went to Hogle Zoo I was 15 years old and I thought it was stupid. This time I went with 3 babies and 5 kids (my kids and 2 nieces and 4 nephews) and it was awesome! There is something magical about watching children experience new things. It makes those experiences new and exciting for you again because you get to watch them through the eyes of a child instead of the "been there done that" eyes of an adult.

sit sit sit sit sit on you

2010-08-18T22:19:00.000-07:00

Crus unique way of showing Joby how excited he is when he comes home from work.

Featured on Simply Utah

2010-08-17T13:07:00.000-07:00

Check out some of the most posh(I use that word hesitantly as I'm pretty sure its passed its era of coolness) companies Utahhas to offer at Simplyut.com and sign up for the fortunatelys giveaway on Thursday

We drank the koolaid

2010-08-11T20:23:00.001-07:00

When Karma brought Joby and I to the small town Roosevelt (because we made fun of my sister and brother in law incessantly for living here) I first thought this:

However, Joby and I have since acquiesced, drank the Roosevelt koolaid and now we are singing a new tune...

(Annie reference in honor of Rachel)

We have become the redheaded step children of Roosevelt...so to speak.

People are extremely nice out here. I didn't trust their hospitality in the beginning. I thought they had to have some kind of angle. Apparently their angle is that they like to be hospitable.

This week was UBIC(Uintah basin in Celebration!) Its the typical town days consisting of parades, carnivals, talent shows etc.

i can't decide what was my favorite highlight ...

*Cru shoving his mouth full of candy at the parade only to spew it out in a slobbery mess on the street to make room for the candy from the next float.

*Cru walking up to strangers watching the talent show and hitting them in the face with his balloon

*Cru, Landon and Kason(crus cousins) running around like feral children, annoying the spectators and I and Callie pretending like they are not our children

*Watching the super tall girl with a broken arm in a dance routine not only not following the steps of everyone else on stage but pretty much doing whatever the heck she wanted.

Below is fun times at the parade and Joby's 10 seconds of Roosevelt fame:

The more you know...

2010-08-05T14:30:00.000-07:00

Due process: the principle that the government must respect all of the legal rights that are owed to a person according to the law. Due process holds the government subservient to the law of the land, protecting individual persons from the state.(Webster Dictionary)

in short:

According to the founding fathers(not government today) it was "a limited procedural guarantee—a process whereby individuals were properly informed of the criminal charges against them and were given the opportunity to defend themselves." And was never suppose to apply to government actions

Alexander Hamilton “The words ‘due process’ have a precise technical import, and are only applicable to the process and proceedings of the courts of justice; they can never be referred to an act of legislature”

therefore, due process cannot be used as an argument against government legislation constitutionally enacted by the will of the people

Equal Protection Clause:Provides that "no state shall ... deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws"

So, not being given a governmental certification does not mean one is denied equal protection of the laws. One does not get extra "protection" from access to government certificates.. such as the marriage certificate. Certain government "privileges" may be extended such as tax breaks etc, but many states already extend these privileges to civil unions. Therefore the Equal prtection clause of the 14th amendment also cannot be used as an argument against prop 8

*And now you know more than the chief judge for the Northern district of California

Blessed

2010-08-01T22:49:00.000-07:00

I find it difficult not to bear testimony at my childrens blessings. Its a very powerful day filled with priesthood power and witness of the Spirit.

Additionally, being surrounded by family and friends who traveled far to be in attendance adds to the overwhelming feeling of love.

Sage's blessing day was extra special because she shared it with her cousin Zander.

With each child, I gain a greater testimony of Heavenly Fathers Plan of Happiness. Before marriage the Gospel expounds on how accepting the calling as a parent is the pathway to joy. To a certain degree you experience this through growing up in a family, but I've realized you don't fully understand this until you act upon this principle and have his precious spirits sent to you.

And though you may feel inadequate at times and it can be challenging becoming parents, seeking family unity for eternity is the pathway to true joy. I am grateful for the knowledge of Heavenly Fathers Plan of Happiness and have a testimony that the Gospel contains all the truth and instructions to a happy fulfilled life.

Cru is wack

2010-07-29T12:14:00.000-07:00

I don't understand,

Cru has a sucker in his mouth...

is sitting in an airplane..

with two hot chicas on each side trying to make him smile..

and Erica brilliantly simulating real life plane noise...

and he is still not happy?

Maybe I should have thrown a dancing llama into the mix.

Ride to Jesus

2010-07-10T11:27:00.001-07:00

I have been attempting to find the benefits of living in a small town versus a bigger city and this is my first discovery..

Roosevelt has a bus that takes you directly to Jesus!

Jealous?

I'll let you know how it goes.

I have two kids...What?

2010-07-06T22:16:00.000-07:00

Things I forgot about having a kid:

1.The awesome adrenaline that comes from strong contractions. Contractions definitely hurt like hell but there is an exhilaration about feeling your bodies process to push the baby out.

2.How much fun it is to sneeze after an episiotomy (extreme sarcasm)

3.How loved I feel by Joby as I watch him get completely stressed with concern for me with any discomfort I experience.

4. How good hospital food is (seriously I love it)and how nice it is to have a team of nurses attend to your every need for two days.

5. The sacred feeling of maternity wards. I find it difficult to check out of my hospital room. You experience such a sacred and beautiful memory in that room its hard to leave.

41 weeks...and defying physics

2010-06-14T21:24:00.001-07:00

So I'm 41 weeks. Apparently my stomach offers 5 star accommodations as my babies don't want to come out. I keep telling people I must have a cotton candy machine and a merry-go-round inside me. In the mean time...I look odd and feel as though I am defying physics.

From the front....semi-normal

From the side...weird.

How do I not do this:(this is suppose to be representative of me falling over)

Its awesome to go past your due date. I have had a whole week extra of people saying "whoa when are you due! You look like your going to pop." Lucky me.

Also I've found babies are a lot easier to raise inside my stomach then outside so bring on week 42!

Lowes should only sell tools..not hire them

2010-05-30T12:58:00.000-07:00

This is the store that we buy all we need to renovate the house we just bought

This is tile that weighs 25 lbs a box that we purchased to go in the house we just bought

This is the 39 week belly that the Lowes moron, whos job it is to load your car, thought should be helping him carry the 25lb boxes of tile that we purchased to go in the house we just bought

This is the battle wound from the lowes moron who not only thought I should be loading the tile into my car myself at 39 weeks pregnant, but also dropped a palette of 21( 25lbs) boxes on my leg of the tile we purchased(and broke 3 of the boxes) to go in the house we just bought

This is the moron. If you see him punch him in the face and ask for assistance from someone else.

If you lick a squirrel...I'm going to laugh

2010-05-14T18:07:00.000-07:00

Prologue:

Exhausted, completely overwhelmed and stressed......

This made me happy.

My mom hates bees

2010-05-09T19:40:00.001-07:00

Where would we be in this life without our moms.

Just like your mothers my mom is the best mom in the whole world. Her only fault I have found is that she is skinnier than me. And yes I categorize that as a fault of hers..not mine.

There is a law in Utah that "No one may walk down the street carrying a paper bag containing a violin"(for reals) so I don't think its too crazy to implement a law against moms fitting in smaller jeans than their daughters.

I have found that with every pregnancy I appreciate my mom more fully. You don't understand the sacrifices your mom made until you take that step into motherhood and you don't realize how much you need her until you start raising a family and realize you have no idea what you are doing.

My mom is my shrink, coach, mentor, bank, cheerleader, example, almanac, doctor, counselor and friend all wrapped into one.

She is terrified of bees and goes into an entertaining conniption if one lands within 5 feet of her yet she will get all her dental work done without Novocaine.

You will also never see my mom without her hair or makeup perfectly set. (She takes a hair dryer to lake powell)

And even though she thinks I don't listen to her, I do. She just forgets she raised me to have a strong opinion and open mind.

In conclusion mom, Maceys department store and i want to thank you for always supporting us and we love you.

**My friend Crystal made a beautiful tribute video about moms that I thought I would share. I don't know how to download it off of blogger but you can view it here. Just scroll to the bottom of her post.

Happy mothers Day!

Whats it gonna do nibble at your bum

2010-04-29T17:43:00.000-07:00

This is Cru.

He looks simple but causes Joby and I deep perplexity

This is No Fear Cru with our big German Shepard. He loves her and will actually grab her mouth and hold it closed. They play together for hours.

Also, the other day we visited Crus great-grandpas farm where he stood in a sheep corral with over 200 sheep. I don't have footage of this, but he was not scared at all. He chased them and even punched one of the sheep in the face.

That being said, I don't know how to explain this:

Scared out of his mind of fuzzy little bunnies. One hopped over and landed on his shoe and I thought he was going to go into convulsions.

Logical? No
Funny? Yes

All rights reserved on hideous pictures of me

2010-04-18T20:48:00.000-07:00

So I am sitting in my sisters office with Joby and we are half talking half watching her computer screensaver which is a slideshow of random photos. I was mid conversation when I looked over and *gasped* in complete horror as I saw this old picture:

Joby laughed hysterically and paused the slideshow to bask in its wretched glory and so he could have ample time to contrive the most sarcastic remarks to respond with.

My question is, how the hell did this picture make the slideshow cut?

I mean it didn't seem to fit the slideshow theme. First you see my adorable nephews in their halloween costumes and then my sister and brother in law looking like models on the beach and then a cute family picture of all of them and then... segue to the poor misfortunate backwoods looking super pregnant sister that looks like she might have been in some terrible accident earlier in life.

Notable repulsive photographic features include:

pregnancy induced double chin

hunched back and 81/2 months huge(with Cru)

teeth resembling a donkey

weird squinty eyes

standing coordinate(most disturbing)...Why the crap am I alone in the foreground with a moronic look on my face. Shouldn't I be in the background with my family also adoring the baby?

This slideshow sits on her desk for all of her employees to see. I bet every time this picture surfaces all of her maids make comments about Callies "misfortunate looking sister."

In conclusion: If anyone has a picture of me where I resemble a donkey, all rights are reserved.

buh buh buh buh buh

2010-04-12T20:19:00.000-07:00

I was hoping when I related to "Overboard," (one of my favorite movies) it would be because I was living on a yacht with a body that compliments stringy one piece swimwear.

Not even close.

It has been one of those days that I end in a comatose state where I would be oblivious to bread crumbs being thrown at my face as I mumble "buh buh buh" like goldie hawn in the clip below

I recently came to...to write this post.

I'm pretty sure with each additional kid the "Buh buh buh" moments are going to increase in frequency.

buh buh buh buh buh buh buh buh buh buh buh buh buh buh buh buh buh buh buh buh

The T-Rex bunny wishes you a happy easter

2010-04-02T10:38:00.000-07:00

This is the 20 foot T-rex that resides in the neighboring town next to "Hillbilly hell" where we are moving. He's an extremely festive carnivore. In February he was holding a heart shaped box of chocolates. In the summer he has been known to sport a cowboy hat and a watermelon.

I guess if I can't live by the beach living by a seasonally decorated dinosaur is the next best thing.

Happy Easter !

Enter to win

2010-03-24T07:26:00.000-07:00

Fortunatelys is featured at Sampler Village until the 31st! Go enter to win and check out their other sweet gift boxes.

Three legged dogs make me laugh

2010-03-17T12:41:00.000-07:00

Especially when they are utilized in children programing as a way to help kids be more accepting of others who look different.

Cru was watching "Clifford the big red dog" the other day and out of the corner of my eye I caught a glimpse of what I thought was a cartoon 3 legged dog hopping across the screen and to my great satisfaction... it was!!

The corners of my mouth immediately curled into a dastardly smile.

It was epic. I think I was more entertained than Cru. The 3 legged dog bounced over to the other dogs and they all became really uncomfortable and awkwardly walked away to avoid him. Apparently this is the wrong behavior, but thats pretty much what i do when I come in contact with a three legged dog.

I was hoping he had a spanish accent as my only experience viewing three legged dogs is on our trips to TiJuana. We would actually play a version of "Wheres Waldo" when we crossed the border but it was called "wheres a four legged dog." Surprisingly its difficult to find in TJ and three legs are more of the norm.

Why all TJ dogs only have 3 legs you ask? I still don't know but will spend the rest of my life trying to find the answer.

I searched diligently for a picture or video of this specific episode, but to my dismay could not find any of the priceless footage to post. Joby said I have to stay on the computer until I find it as he feels cheated for not being able to view it.

In the end the dogs deal with their "3legaphobia" and befriend the misfortunate animal.

Moral of the story: If you use a three legged dog as an object lesson... the lesson will sadly be lost in my non-sensitive laughter.

I'm temporarily anti-color

2010-03-07T20:06:00.000-08:00

According to Joby I am a part time goth. He claims pregnancy makes me anti-color.

I have noticed that around four months into pregnancy everything black in my wardrobe seems to be worn more frequently. This frequency seems to increase and by nine months color has been completely absolved from my attire and I pretty much wear the Mac cosmetic uniform everyday...black on black. One month after pregnancy I seem to welcome color back into my life.

I apparently am a typical girl and realized I simply resort to black for its wonderful concealing abilities. Its my attempt to trick my mind into believing I still have some sort of figure even though the baby is trying her best to sabotage it. I think its easy to feel huge during pregnancy, even though its just the baby, and anything that makes me feel less like a cow in those last months I will fully support.

See, sporting black straight forward I'm only a little pregnant

Even though turning to the side I am obviously 7 months.

Joby always says my psychosomatic neuroticisms are what keep our marriage interesting.

Side note, never say never. I find that whatever you say you will "never do" 9 times out of ten you will do.

Pre-children I always judged mothers whos kid still had a binky in after they were walking. I claimed my kid will NEVER use a binky past 10months. Below you will find a picture of my hypocrisy.

16 month old Cru.

What I should have said was "My kid will never use a binky past 10 months.......unless I find it a useful weapon to quiet tantrums and high pitched screaming."

Shun the non-believers

2010-03-02T07:50:00.000-08:00

Normally I don't fall prey to supposed "Old Wives Tales, " but this one seems to be eerily accurate. The gender and amount of kids you will have can be predicted by a strand of your hair, your wedding ring and the energy from your wrist.

It just makes logical sense.... right?

When my sister introduced this to me my response was the same as Jobys response to me now that I believe it.."This is ridiculously stupid." However, it has predicted correctly on everyone I know, including myself, by predicting Cru as a boy and our next as being a little girl before I had an ultra sound. Interestingly enough if it ends up being completely correct we are going to have 6 kids the last being twins.

Just try it...you know you want to.

In conclusion, thank you Utah for the ridiculous amount of billboards lining our freeways promoting liposuction, plastic surgery and "miracle juices." And thank you Utah for introducing me to Voodoo.

***This is a video I found on Youtube showing the "ring trick" However, it works the same using a needle and string.

Basically circle means girl, swinging back and forth perpendicular to your wrist equals boy and swinging parallel to your wrist equals twins. It will swing for a while before stopping and then continuing with the next predicted gender.

We bring out feelings in others they themselves don't understand

2010-02-22T09:41:00.000-08:00

Joby and I team teach the Old Testament to the 16-18 year olds and they typically welcome the sarcasm we sprinkle through out the lesson. We decided to make my fortune cookies for them and as per usual the fortunes were more comically demeaning then uplifting.

Examples include:

"You should be more concerned about your elephant smell"

"Your excessive body hair does not go unnoticed by others"

"You are not only dull yourself you are the cause of dullness in others."

We decided it would be more prudent to make the cookies an object lesson and compared the cookies to the adversaries tactics stating , "he puts things in beautiful enticing little packages, but on the inside he has nothing but disdain for you." We totally thought we were brilliant even though ironically we created the sarcastic fortunes for our own sadistic pleasure.

Anyway, we noticed one of the kids in our class seemed to be troubled and wasn't as boisterous as usual. We could tell he was having a bad day and so I kind of didn't want him to get a fortune cookie because of their potential to be a downer. I was hoping he would get a more mild one, but apparently he received the one which stated:

"Since you're gross shouldn't you be smart?"

So I was like "yeah, the adversary sucks can you believe he wrote something so incredibly rude."

Concern: What if his problem is that he thinks he is gross and unintelligent and the cookie confirmed it?

Needless to say he wasn't in class this week.

Moral of the story: Do not come to my and jobys class if you think you're gross and unintelligent and are having a bad day.

P.S. My kid and Joby are cute:

Expectations exceeded

2010-02-10T07:39:00.000-08:00

on a more sentimental note....

I always had great expectations for my life with Joby. He is my best friend, treats not only me, but all women as queens and can make me laugh harder than anyone. Our life together has never been dull and never a day goes by without expressions of love....or sarcasm

Its strange its only been three years and as cliche as it is...I vaguely remember life before him...and can't imagine life without him

For two people who always subscribed to the philosophy "Never grow up," I think were doing a pretty good job of "growing up" together.

And yes...below is a portion of our wedding video in honor of our anniversary.

(I fully admit my dorkiness in posting it. ) Truly, the best day of my life.

Heres to umptine more years of calling you so obnoxious, so immature, so attractive, so hilarious, so driving me nuts, so perfect for me.

The Duncan principle is valid

2010-02-01T20:49:00.000-08:00

So if you watch "Community" you know that the Duncan Principle(which consisted of leaving test subjects in a waiting room until they broke down) was debunked by one of the volunteers.

However, I am here to confirm the validity of the Duncan Principle from first hand experience. In the episode Annie entered the room full of test subjects, when the experiment was "suppose to" begin, and said the following:

In my experiment, I told Joby to stop at one of my friends house so I could drop something off and I would only be 5 minutes.

I ended up returning to the car after 20 minutes and his response was identical to the test subject below....even down to the uncontrollable english/spanish hysterics.

Conclusion: The data I collected finds The Duncan principle conclusive in the Archer family.

A little boasting..

2010-01-26T11:04:00.000-08:00

Carol Ann Huntington, Editor of Cosmopolitan Magazine, wrote a very favorable article about Fortunatelys on her Gift idea blog! She said they are "charming and clever" and she would feel "pretty fortunate to get these unique edible gift ideas as a thoughtful little surprise" Yay!

Thought I would boast a bit as it really made my day. You can check out the article here. I have been a big fan of her site for while and have used it to find fantastic gift ideas. Its a great site and won numerous awards. Additionally, Carol is a wonderful person. If you are looking for a unique gift check out her great ideas here (but still send Fortunatleys. hehe!)

The era of no responsibility

2010-01-22T15:47:00.000-08:00

It seems like every era of life seems to start out extremely challenging, but seems to bring forth greater joys and self discovery. I find I temporarily look back each time my life takes a new pathway. Just as you seem to say,"hey I got this. This life thing isn't so difficult after all," you get thrown in a whole new direction with a whole new set of challenges and responsibilities. Its seems as though you start out as a student and once you master that time period and feel as though you are at the top, you are pushed back down to become the student again. Your experience, however, brings greater tools and knowledge to each era. I have found that once I commit to my new direction I find life always seems to bring greater adventures, wisdom, growth and happiness. The era of no responsibility was one of the most difficult to let go, but I would never go back. I think becoming a wife and mother has been one of the most challenging eras. I'm sure more fun difficult surprises are yet to come, but its been the best era yet. However, I'm sure in 20 years I will just get the hang of this mom and wife thing and then my kids will leave and a new era will unfold to Joby and I and we will yet again become the students. And that era will then be the best to me.

Life is unpredictably wonderful and the best is always yet to come.

Below is the footage I collected from "The era of no responsibility." San Diego 2003-2008.

Its almost 30 minutes and split into 3 parts for uploading capability. Fun times and wonderful relationships can't be captured in a two minute clip! Much of video is low quality due to compressing the video. Enjoy!

Part 1 Boat dances, roomate fun times

Random times/glamis/Joshua tree/Devils punch bowl/inflatable fun

Part 3 Tea party/Karaoke ending

"The world is closing in- Did you ever think -That we could be so close, like brothers
The future's in the air-I can feel it everywhere-Blowing with the wind of change" -Scorpions

Strange things are afoot...

2010-01-10T20:22:00.000-08:00

Dream: So, for the fourth night in a row I continue to have the same dream. I am walking up to the shoreline of a lake and these two aquatic puppies swim up to me. You can view a very professionally drawn accurate depiction of these animals by clicking here. I pick them up, hug them and instantly fall in love with them.

Dream analysis: Does this mean that I am going to give birth to two dog fish?

On another strange note, I was speaking to my brother today and he said he would have to call me back because he had to stop his two dogs from eating his elk head.(gross!)

And a random question: Am I the only person in Utah whos daily routine doesn't consist of refilling and consuming a 44 oz cup of soda?

No offense winter, but I hate you

2010-01-06T15:17:00.000-08:00

Winter darling~

For two months we have enjoyed your beauty and the way you purify all that you touch.

We have laughed till we cried playing in your frozen flakes of white.

We smiled as you created a feeling of Christmas with your picturesque wonderland scene. We enjoyed the chilling nights that let us curl up by a hot fire with a delicious cup of hot cocoa and memories of winters past. And now winter, as you continue your elegance into January I just want to say.....

I hate you.

I can't go skiing because I'm pregnant. Everyday I barely miss a faceplant episode, but wake up sore the next day from the creative Acrobatics I engaged in to prevent me from falling. I can't wear flip flops and have been forced to wear socks after a 10 year sabbatical. I have been reintroduced to the annoyance of scraping my windows before driving my car. Additionally, winter, your beauty deteriorates four days after a new snow fall.

Come November, I will like you again as all is forgotten from enjoying months of spring summer and fall... until then, I hate you.

"you cannot truly practice what Jesus taught and be successful in politics"

2009-12-19T07:56:00.000-08:00

After all, it was the politicians of his day who killed Jesus.

Thought this was interesting and exceptionally written. It was produced by one of my favorite constitutional lawyers, John W.Whitehead. It is in response to political assertions, but it is also a reminder of the beautiful and perfect character of our beloved Savior who we are striving to exemplify. Seemed appropriate for this wonderful time of year. Enjoy!

Jesus was a politician’s nightmare. He never ran for political office, but he had quite a platform, and these were his campaign slogans: Love your foes. Help those who hate you. Praise those who curse you. Pray for those who abuse you. If someone punches your cheek, offer the other cheek. If someone steals your coat, offer him your shirt as well. If someone asks you for something, give it to him. Treat others exactly as you would wish to be treated. Love your enemies and treat them well. If you lend money, do it without any expectation of profit. Show favor to ingrates and scoundrels. Do not sit in judgment of your fellow human being. Always forgive.

What politician today could be elected on such a platform? Not even Jesus.

Indeed, the Jesus of the New Testament was about as far from being a politician as one could get. He refused to play power politics. Instead, he challenged the political and religious belief systems of his day. He refused to compromise on his principles, and he preached a message of unity and love, as opposed to the divisiveness that politics relies on.

Jesus was anti-political. He stood against such things as empires, controlling people, state violence and power politics. He saw politics and human governments as inevitably corrupt and set the standard for confronting governmental powers. He taught a new way to govern—one that was spiritually healthy, creative, concerned about the oppressed and the poor and promoted a sense of community. His teachings undermined the establishment and the political status quo, not only of his own time but ours as well.

Jesus advocated love, peace, nonviolence and helping the poor. And he spoke truth to power, uncaring of who he offended, even when all the odds were against it. He constantly inveighed against the rich, the powerful and the exploiters. And his egalitarian treatment of women was so shocking in the patriarchal society of his time that his own male followers could not understand it.

In short, Jesus was a radical.

As author Garry Wills writes in What Jesus Meant, anyone claiming to practice a “Christian politics” other than the kind practiced by Jesus is a usurper. You can’t speak truth to power, as Jesus did, and be the power, because as Jesus showed us, how you change the world is not through government or politics but by raising up communities, bringing people to peace, eschewing power, speaking out against injustice, helping those in need, and loving those around you, even your enemies.

This isn’t to say that religious people should abstain from voting or vote a particular ticket. But if you’re a Christian, you should be doing more than voting for a candidate who promises to be a political savior. As history makes clear, there is no such thing.

Daft the halls.....

2009-12-10T17:38:00.000-08:00

Joby and my brothers wishing you all sincere satirical wishes for a wonderful Christmas

Sweet giveaway Yo

2009-12-01T07:26:00.000-08:00

My little Fortunatelys is being featured on the illustrious Giveawaytoday!!! Woot Woot!

Go to Giveawaytoday.blogspot.com and enter to win!

If you haven't been to Giveawaytoday you should visit often. My sisters friend Emily created the brilliant blog and she gives away fantastic gifts everyday from amazing companies all over the U.S and Canada. She was just featured in Business Q magazine for being the newest millionaire for her site. (you can see it here)

Little background: After Joby wouldn't move out of San Diego for the two reporting jobs I received after college, I have been a bit lost in direction. Reporting was my dream, but I guess I can understand Joby not wanting to move for a job that starts out at $9.00 an hour. (reporting is not lucrative) Since then I have had some interesting opportunities, but nothing that seemed right. After Cru I found I do have the nurturing gene as I didn't want to work at all and wanted simply to be a stay at home mom. I still wanted something I could pursue at home that would give me fulfillment. While running one day(BTW running is the breeding ground for ideas) the idea for Fortunatelys came to me. I decided since we were moving to Utah, I had to have a cutsie little mom business like every mother in Utah.

I would never guess Fortunatelys would be apart of my path, but it has done surprisingly well and gives me great joy and fulfillment. Its so wonderful to read the beautiful messages and fortunes people create for their loved ones. So go enter to win a Fortunatelys gift box and send some love!!! Click here (winners will be picked at the end of the day)

righteous insubordination

2009-11-28T11:20:00.000-08:00

Thought this was interesting ...

Below is a portion of Letter from the First presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of latter Day Saints in 1941. It is a response to Roosevelts cabinet soliciting support from the church and and its members for the (heavily propaganda laden) Defense savings bond program to fund the war.

"The Church as a Church does not believe in war and yet since its organization whenever war has come we have done our part … we do thoroughly believe in building up our home defenses to the maximum extent necessary, but we do not believe that aggression should be carried on in the name and under the false cloak of defense. We therefore look with sorrowing eyes at the present use to which a great part of the funds being raised by taxes and by borrowing is being put … We believe that our real threat comes from within and not from without, and it comes from the underlying spirit common to Naziism, Fascism, and Communism, namely, the spirit which would array class against class, which would set up a socialistic state of some sort, which would rob the people of the liberties which we possess under the Constitution, and would set up such a reign of terror as exists now in many parts of Europe … "

I'm positive this stance still holds true with the presidency today in regards to the current(propaganda-laden) war.

and on that note....GO COUGARS!

Crus cake wreck

2009-11-16T13:34:00.000-08:00

CRU TURNED ONE!

This time last year I was feeling fantastic. Labor was over and I was just enjoying my percocet high.

Not to be cliche...but it is strange to imagine life before Cru. He brings so much joy to our lives, and emptiness to our bank account.

We had a surf theme party for him in honor of his San Diego roots. We made surfboard cookies and a surf scene cake

I definitely don't consider myself a baker. Not really my strength. That's why I had the help of my sister Jacque and friend Kristen. However, when it comes to mischievous, sarcastic or morbid ideas, I would consider myself an expert. Which explains the disturbing scene on Cru's cake of a drowning baby getting eaten by a shark.

Of course it is not Cru. He's the super talented one, safe one on the surf board.

It was a wonderful day

Happy birthday Sweet baby Cru. We love you!

Our kid speaks prehistoric bird

2009-11-04T14:34:00.000-08:00

He's not even one year old and he has already perfected the

pterodactyl mating call. I'm sure this video is just a small

insight into his linguistic genius.

your kid may walk or have 20 teeth but Cru speaks pterodactyl

Jealous?

Doing my part to replenish the earth

2009-10-26T10:58:00.000-07:00

This is Cru and I today...

And this is what Cru and I looked like 11 months ago and what I will look like in 6 months. Break out the velour suits and stretchy pants!

Its the big white wad on the left, stupid

2009-10-22T11:02:00.000-07:00

Because of this :

And this:

I continue to hear the following from guests using our bathroom:

Guest: "uh where is your toilet paper."

me: "Its the big white wad on your left." (stupid)

We are conditioned to think that many things in society have to look a certain way to be classified as such. This is incorrect thinking. Just because its in a mountainous chaos shape as opposed to rolled up it doesn't mean its not usable toilet paper.

And just because small morsels of food are stored in obscure places in our carpet doesn't mean if cru finds it two days later its not food. He will still eat it

And just because the book I borrowed from you is returned with teeth marks around the edges and a missing index and slobber dried foot notes doesn't mean you cant still read it. Its still a book.

And just because a shirt has snot trails on it from your sick baby doesn't mean you can't wear it all day. Its still a shirt

Get a baby and start thinking outside the box.

cru baby

People always ask "why" we left California......

2009-10-21T11:47:00.000-07:00

So people always ask us why we left sunny San Diego...

The following was reported on unitedfamilies.org:

Schwarzenegger signs bill honoring homosexuality

"Last week we sent you an alert asking you to contact Gov. Schwarzenegger in opposition to a bill that would establish May 22 as "Harvey Milk Day," in honor of the openly homosexual politician. Yet, despite the objections of the people of California, Schwarzenegger signed the bill into effect Sunday night along with another bill recognizing all same-sex marriages performed in the U.S. before the passage of Prop. 8. Now every year, public schools in California will set aside May 22 to study and commemorate a man known only for his homosexuality."

Full story here: http://unitedfamiliesinternational.wordpress.com/2009/10/20/update-schwarzenegger-signs-bill-honoring-homosexuality/

Thats why.

The essence of Pug

2009-10-06T10:26:00.000-07:00

Let it be known that little pretentious

frou-frou fidos are not the only dogs that

look good as a fashion accessory...

A Little Clarification....

2009-09-30T07:37:00.000-07:00

Editors note: so contrary to what y'all thought my previous post insinuates, I'm not in love with Glenn Beck. My post was suppose to insinuate that I'm in love with joby because I am attracted to character and looks that are reminiscent of him.

Glenn = like his broadcasts because he quotes my favorite author

Joby= Love.

Glenn= enjoy his broadcasts

Joby= Love

Got it?

So no more stupid phone calls in reference to a fictitious attraction you thought was real because you don't understand my sarcasm or else I will be forced to punch you all in the face.

Glenn Beck is Jobys Doppelganger!!

2009-09-29T10:16:00.000-07:00

I enjoy listening to Glenn Beck and absolutely love his 9/12 project because its foundation is based on the book, "The 5000 year leap" which was written by my most beloved author Cleon Skousen.

That being said... I have embarrassingly found myself growing extremely attracted to Glenn every time I tune in. I thought maybe it was his politics or the fact that he will bare testimony of the Saviour and talk about holding to the iron rod on national television, but it wasn't until people started to say "you know who Joby reminds me of.." that I realized there was a major element that bred my attraction

He is a heavier older version of Joby! Seriously. Its creepy. The mannerisms. The way they speak. The humor. The confidence. The sensitivity. The love for cake and ice cream. Its all very much alike.

Glenn is Jobys Doppelganger

Its Alive!!!!!!

2009-09-23T21:32:00.000-07:00

After only a mere 15 years Joby got his purple betty running!

Joby says that 15 years is normal to restore a vehicle. Somehow.... I don't think he's being truthful.

Jobys helping me to appreciate old things. Its a slow process. I'm on level 2. "Embracing not new" I just moved up from level 1 "refraining from calling old things stupid."

Its still hard. The temptation is still there. I see an antique and I can taste the contempt in my mouth and I want to give in....but I've come too far.

One day at a time.

My happy place...

2009-09-17T13:52:00.000-07:00

you can never get enough summer camping trips.

Granola... its the new black.

sometimes free stuff doesn't appeal to me....

2009-09-12T09:36:00.001-07:00

Joby and I were on a nightly stroll when we stumbled upon this gem of a deal.

Can you believe our good fortune!!!! Dried cornstalk!! FREEEEE!!!!

As you can see Joby and I were elated!

I can't believe someone would just give this treasure away.

Moral of the story. Surprisingly, even if you label something "free," it doesn't give it value.

He-man. The voice of reason in a dark world.

2009-09-01T20:45:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I wonder if Joby and I can teach Cru everything he needs to grow up and become a strong self-reliant responsible adult.

It seems like a daunting task.

There is so much he needs to learn.

Rest assured, there is massive amounts of untapped old he-man footage to fill in those gaps with important lessons parents might not be aware. Like what makes a good leader. (watch below)

These are not lessons just any parent can teach. We need amateur cartoon action to visually show our children the ramifications for incorrect thinking. I would have thought a sword made a good leader until I saw that rock guy waving it with one mechanical arm back and forth without moving the rest of his body. He did not look like a good leader.

"A sword or any other symbol does'nt make a person a good leader. What does is intelligence respect for others and an unselfish desire to do good."

Thats powerful

He-man. The voice of reason in a dark world

Cru will definitely get a he-man education.

To be or not to be our friends....

2009-08-29T11:07:00.000-07:00

This post has been removed due to realized inappropriate immaturity.

insinuations of "flipping the bird" was decidedly not cool.

However, in response to a particular disappointed comment, use of the word "butthead" in any facet is always welcome on this site.

Jobys Smorgasbord

2009-08-23T08:32:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had a family outing at Heritage days. What is Heritage days you ask? I have no idea but I am a fan. In an attempt to recreate the past all of the food and festivities were in accordance with costs of the past. Tickets cost 5 cents and everything was between 2 and 5 tickets. I have never felt so wealthy in my entire life.

Homade rootbeer, slushys, pie and ice cream, cotton candy, popcorn, large suckers, cake, etc all between 5 and 25 cents and unlimited.

As I was enjoying the festivities I was granted a glimpse of what Jobys life would be like if money was no object.

I'm confident moderation would not exist.

Watching him was appalling...yet fascinating. Comparable to the scene in Charlottes Web where Templeton is having his night of smorgasbord (as seen below)

When the night ended and there was no more indulgence to be had I searched for Joby so we could go home. This is how I found him

I covered Crus Eyes so he wouldn't have to see his dad in this state.

When he came to he did the walk of shame to our car.

When common sense fails...stickers save the day

2009-08-12T19:36:00.000-07:00

So we thought it might be fun to lock Cru in this Air tight container! Yay!

But oh no! look!

Luckily we saw this. (A closer look)

Good thing they have stickers like this for when common sense fails.

So the moral of the story is

Don't put your kid in a box

Don't let him play with a fox

Don't put him under a car

or throw him really far.

Don't be a tool or stickers will be made.

P.S. My kids cute

Lizards are Gods ninjas

2009-07-31T13:48:00.000-07:00

Prologue: All of the boys are wandering around camp, on our family vacation at Starvation Reservoir, digging up all sorts of bugs and spiders to place in their ring of death.

*Boys being all my brothers, brothers in laws and Joby who are all 25 and older.

*Ring of death being a large clear canister where random insects are thrown inside while the boys(see above) act as spectators for a sporting event and place bets on what beast will conquer.

Outcome: The ants created secret bands and broke off into little groups and attacked and killed everything. The black widow. The dragon fly. The super creepy slimy thing. The "too hideous to look at" and the beetle.

They killed everything..everything but the lizard. The lizard just closed his eyes and didn't move. The ants attacks were no match for the unobtrusive nature of the lizard

Overheard conclution by the boys: "Ants are Gods assassins and Lizards are Gods ninjas."

Epic.

I'm going to miss this..

2009-07-18T19:45:00.000-07:00

MORE CRU BABY...

I LOVE HIM SOO MUCH!

Orange thingy and depressed guy

2009-07-15T12:29:00.000-07:00

I don't know what the orange thingy is or why this guy is depressed...

I just thought this picture was funny.

Depression=not funny

Orange thingy=creepy

Together=Funny!

Its like the perfect storm...

Reflective Light makes me emotional

2009-06-30T06:07:00.000-07:00

SO I WAS SITTING IN OUR HOUSE READING AND LOOKED UP AND OUTSIDE MY WINDOW AND SAW THIS:

I THEN WALKED OUTSIDE AND WAS DAZZLED BY THIS:

THIS:

AND THIS:

IT WAS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL RAINBOW I HAVE EVER SEEN.

MANY PEOPLE BELIEVE RAINBOWS SYMBOLIZE GODS COVENANT WITH NOAH THAT HE WILL NEVER FLOOD THE EARTH AGAIN. THIS IS TRUE, BUT AFTER READING MY FRIENDS BLOG I WAS REMINDED THAT IT ALSO SYMBOLIZES THAT JAIMEY FREAKING GETS TO BE WITH HIS MOM AGAIN SOMEDAY!

WHOS JAIMEY YOU ASK?

HES ONLY THE GREATEST LITTLE BOY WHO DIDN'T DO ANYTHING WRONG BUT LOVE HIS AMAZING MOM SOO MUCH AND SHE FREAKING DIES OKAY! SHE DIES! AND EVEN THOUGH FAMILIES CAN BE TOGETHER FOREVER WHENEVER I EAT BISCUITS AND SYRUP I'LL NEVER GET OVER IT!!(Explanation below)

(P.S. This movie is emotional terrorism)

Okay so some of you may remember this movie from primary back during the glorious years of beeping slides. (Sadly the beeps have been removed from the youtube version.)

Strangely I remember this movie from random family Sunday breakfasts of 90-93.

All 7 of us would be sitting at the kitchen table at 7am sunday morning eating biscuits and syrup. I would be attempting to calm my morning anger issues and try not to kill Callie (my little sister) that was singing "I am a child of God" in her cutsie high pitched 5 year old voice. Trevor(my little brother) would then routinely spill his glass of milk and start crying. Jacque(my older sister) didn't talk, just exuded coolness and looked like she just came back from a butt rock tour that seemed to originate in her bedroom. Her hair was awesomely big (and coveted by all) and concealed my older brother Travis sitting next to her. He would generally try to irritate anyone and everyone so we would know he was present behind the wall of hair. As we all ate our biscuits and syrup my Dad would stand up walk over the the radio and turn on the audio version of "build you a rainbow." At first noone was listening, but by the time jaimey was stating " you just cant die mom, you just can't" we were all staring straight forward using every ounce of strength to prevent the tears.

This is my question: Why did my parents think that a story of a little boy who lost their mom was appropriate breakfast entertainment? Can you just picture 5 pajama wearing, sleep deprived kids with bed head sitting at the breakfast table with the most emotionally disturbed looks on there faces that seem to scream "what the Hell! (er..heck)"

I guess some things in life just don't make sense.

All I know is that whenever I see a rainbow I smile and think "thats Jaimeys mom, sending him reflective light love."

My Dads cooler than your Dad

2009-06-20T23:13:00.001-07:00

This is my dad

This is typically how you will see my Dad. Decked out in work gear and serving from 6 in the morning until 12:00 at night. He never stops. When I was little, I thought he was bionic...I still kind of do.

He is always the first one in line to help anyone and everyone,because he can do anything,(seriously...anything!) but never expects anything in return. He is a true example of unselfish giving of his God given talents.

My dad has always been the life of the party. I remember people use to always say "You must have so much fun in your home with a Dad like that." My dad can always make me laugh, except when he tries to give my baby pepsi and frosting.

He thinks its funny. I dont.

My Dad is respected by all, partly because they have seen him tear a phone book in half. (My friends from high school still talk about it.)

My dad is tough as nails and has a scar on his bicep to prove it. If you ask he will gladly tell you the scars appearance was a result of his muscles getting so big they blew up.

I could go on and list all of my dads amazing character and elaborate on how his great example made me a better person, but that would take all night...and I don't do well with out sleep.

So I am simply going to say...My Dad is a rare breed. A diamond in the rough. Anyone who knows him will attest to this. He amazes people. He amazes me.

He is a giant among men and a treasure to his family. Love you Dad

P.S. and yes. My dad can beat up your dad.

Fathers Day Celebration 2009

Another episode of 2 year olds with markers

2009-06-14T17:35:00.000-07:00

THE CRIME: MARKER CREATIVELY SCRIBBLED ALL OVER JOBYS TRUCK

POTENTIAL SUSPECTS: RUNNING FROM SCENE

BLAME

DENIAL. (BLUE HAND CONVICTS)

FULL CONFESSION

GUILT AND REMORSE

ANGRY VICTIM

Cru Ice ice baby...

2009-06-10T22:43:00.000-07:00

"Cru Ice" the new Vanilla

Will it ever stop..Yo I don't know, turn out the lights and I glow

Word..