a special Christmas gift from Mom

I am lucky to be apart of a family with lots of traditions. One particular tradition that I absolutely love is one that is a result of my Mom's love for me and my sister-in-laws. Each Thanksgiving, my sweet mother presents to me and my sister-in-law's a special Christmas gift. These gifts are something a long the line's of a Christmas decoration. She has been doing it for years and might I add....I LOVE IT!!! Each gift is from one of her many talents. She is probably the most talented person that I know. The gifts range from flower baskets, hand-sewn table runners, things that are tole painted...the list goes on and on. I have watched her create these amazing gifts. They are created with all her love. Oh, it is amazing.

Well, this year, she had been working on our gift for quite sometime. But, she did not complete it in time for Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving came and went. Nothing was said of the special Christmas gift that we did not receive.

Side note: I knew that we would receive them--I was not about to let her put this project away.

A couple of weeks ago, my niece asked if her mom was going to get her special "Christmas Gift" this year. She said that her mom commented how sad she was that there was no special present for her on Thanksgiving. Then, my brother told Mom that his wife was feeling really sad that she did not receive her special gift,either. See, Mom, we do love your special Christmas gifts. In fact, if you happen to walk through my house--most of my decorations are those "Special Christmas Gifts"!

Finally, we now have received our gift. It is a hand-pieced pillow. Each square on this pillow is hand-sewn. These pillows took her hours and hours of stitching. Her stitches are amazing. It looks like each stitch is exactly the same. I know that they are a product of her love. See, my Mom suffers from severe arthritis in her hands. (I have arthritis in one finger and that about kills me on cold days--I can not imagine both hands and fingers!!).

Thanks Mom for ALL of the special Christmas Gifts. We all love them and wait eagerly for the next Thanksgiving!!!

The Christmas Card Competition!!!

Well, I have a huge secret and I would like to share it with whomever is reading this post. Each year, I secretly have a contest with my roommate. It really doesn't matter which roommate. The contest is with whomever I am living with at the time. This contest works because I am single and my mail comes to me in my name only. I have had this secret every year since my BYU days. I told one of my roommates about it one time and it backfired. So, since then, I have kept my secret to myself. It, definitely, works much better for me to SECRETLY WIN!!

The secret is a contest with whomever I am living with...it is all about Christmas Cards that we receive.

Side note: I love mail (snail mail)--oh, I do love email, too--I love letters, I love cards, and most of all I love receiving Christmas Cards.

So, I have a secret competition with whomever I live with to see who receives the MOST Christmas cards. I place each Christmas card on our refrigerator. One side is hers and the other side is MINE!!! This year was great!!! There is only 1 mail day left and I am winning the Christmas Card Competition. I am secretly screaming with delight inside.

Ok!! I know you are thinking that I am a tad bit bizarre--but sometimes, it feels good to win!!! Yes, I know that my current roommie does not have a clue--(she is not computer savvy--so needs for to be reading my blog), but I think that I can declare an official win!!! I am sad that she did not receive a lot, but I am ecstatic that I heard from a lot of friends. I do treasure my cards. I love to hear how everyone is doing. I love to see all the pictures-families are getting bigger and older!!! I love to read your letters!!! Isn't life just FABULOUS!! Thanks to all that sent me Christmas Cards this year (& secretly helped me become victorious!!! HA HA).

I received two more today--that had not made it on the refrigerator before I took this picture!! (They are on my desk at work!)

1st Annual Progressive Dinner & the beginning of a fun tradition

Tonight was our Annual Progressive Dinner. Actually, it was our 1st Annual Progressive Dinner. I decided that it would be fun to have "the girls" hang out together. I had a list a mile long to invite, but with it being so close to the holidays, I decide to rethink my list. I think 100 girls in a room would be quite festive--don't you think? So, we only ended up with 9 this year: Mom, Jessica, Melanie, Vieve, Janille, Maleen, Julie, Kaylie and me!!! We had a delightful time!!!

Well, it started out at my house (Michelle's Party Palace), then we braved the horrific snowstorm toVieve's home for appetizers. She made the most delicious mini quiches. Such a yummy appetizer--she needs to share the recipe. Then, we braved the snowstorm and went to Mom's Christmas Palace--aka. The Gren Home and ate delicious salad, french bread and lasagne. Thanks Mom, Jessica and Julie for the delectable dinner. We shared our most embarrassing moments and laughed and laughed. I think that Maleen topped us all on that one and then a close second was Jessica. Okay, maybe Julie would be in the top running on that one too. Ask them, they just might share...

Dinner was over and so was the snowstorm. So, back to Michelle's Party Palace for Peppermint ice cream and mint cookies. We shared our favorite Christmas traditions and then we played the "gift game". Of course, it was lots and lots of fun!!! We all ended up with fabulous presents!!!

Then, it was off to take pictures....One...Two...Three...SMILE!!! Okay, it was kind of difficult trying to figure out how many seconds I had to run to get into position from the start of the timer!! I swear that it was different each time....

We could not stop giggling!!! Thanks for a wonderful night. I do believe that the 1st Annual Progressive Dinner was a HUGE success!!! I know that it will return again next year....I hope you can make it!!

a warm feeling...

Each year, for the past 5 years, we have had the privilege and the pleasant opportunity of helping a family in need. So, tonight, Mom, Shad, Jessica, Brylie and I went shopping for our Sub4Santa family. There is definitely something to it--the warmness that comes through your whole body--the spirit of giving. That special smile that seems to warm the cold weather outside. Oh, I just love this type of feeling!!

As we shopped and shopped, laughed and laughed and had a great time--we could not help thinking of this particular family's expression on Christmas morning. One thing is great--is thinking of the family that thought that there was no hope--only to find out--that there is still hope. This has been one of the most peaceful traditions that we have been able to create. Oh, I love this time of year. The time when people share with others.

Sometimes we run into people that are being scrooge's, but maybe they are struggling or going through difficult times--hopefully, they can figure out what brings happiness to them. Sometimes, it is just a smile or a cheerful hello. I just love Christmas--Christmas time is a time of giving. I do wish that people would have this kind of spirit all year long.

I found it!!! The most desired Christmas Present EVER!!

I found it!!! I found the Christmas present that I absolutely want!!! So, if there is anyone out there possible that would LOVE to get me the present that I want so badly....I have found it. YES, I have found it!!! Let me share with you how I came upon this wonderful thing!!! I have been searching for the Christmas present that I really want. Since, I am not dating anyone seriously--at this time of year and there is no excitement for an awaited diamond, I have found the next best thing.

Mom and I went shopping, today. She was trying to help me be less stressed out about purchasing Christmas presents--until today, I have only purchased 2 out of the 40 presents that I am still trying to decide to buy. There are only a few days left and I am starting to really feel it. So, we shopped and shopped. I did purchase a gift (yes, 1), so my count is a little over 39. I feeling a little bit better--3 down, 39 to go!!! I was feeling a lot better at this point.

Anyway, getting back to the Christmas present that I found and want....Mom and I stopped at this place--I can not reveal the place--someone might be getting a present from that place. I looked to the left and gasped!!!! I screamed (yes, quite loudly), jumped out my car and ran over to the most desired Christmas present ever. This is what I saw...

Is this amazing or what? Does that not say "MICHELLE"? A yellow bug with flowers all over it. Look at the hubcaps? Aren't they the coolest ever? Oh, I just sat there and drooled!!! Mom told that I should probably stop hovering over it, someone might call the police. But, I just sat there and drooled!!! This is definitely what I want!!! So, if there is a Santa Claus--"Mr. Santa, if there is not a husband in the works....this is definitely what I want!!!"

Candy Day at Mom's

Today was declared as "CANDY DAY" at Mom's. Every year, my mom, dad and I get together and make candy. I have been responsible for making the divinity each year. I can not even remember the year that I started making the divinity--but since then, I have been in charge of it. Dad has been in charge of making the fudge each year and Mom is usually washing all the dishes that we dirty. (There is usually A LOT!!!)--Sorry MOM!!!

Well, this year, it was just Mom and me!! Dad had to work, so I took over the fudge making. I think it turned out nicely for never making it before. Actually, it was scrumptious!!! The divinity was superb!!! The Oreo cookies (a new added treat for this year) were simply delicious!!! So, after 2 batches of divinity, 2 batches of fudge and 2 batches of Oreo cookies, we decided to call it a day!!!! OK, we weren't finished until we packaged up all the neighbor gifts. Who knows what might happen when Dad and Shad show up to eat the treats!!!

3 lively girls & hairspray

It arrived...the big slumber party at my house. The slumber party has been in the works for quite sometime. On Monday, my niece called and said that this Friday was the day for the BIG SLUMBER PARTY at my house. The slumber party always consists of me and my niece-K-Bugs. But, this time another person was added--my 7 month old niece, Miss B. So, all the arrangements were made and planned out and now the big day has arrived!!!

K-Bugs had most of the night planned. First, we had dinner at the Panda Express--our most favorite place to eat when we are spending time together. Orange Chicken and Fried Rice for her and Orange Chicken, Kung-Pu Chicken and Chow Mien for me. I don't think that we ever waiver on what to order--it is always the same. Next, we dropped by the mall, then the grocery store and then, it was home to cuddle up and watch "Hairspray." I Had never watched this movie, but K-Bugs said that it is one of her favorites. OK, I must admit, I really liked this movie too. Miss B only made it through the opening credits before it was off to slumber land for her.


Anyway, while eating Orange Sherbet ice cream and watching the movie, K-Bugs and I had a great time laughing. There were so many funny parts. I can not believe that John Travolta pulled it off being a woman. It was great!!!


Then, it was off to slumber. But, "slumbering" was not what I would have called the night. Making sure that everyone was tucked in and warm through out the night was an adventure, especially when you are dealing with a 7-month old and an 11-year old. But, it was a lot of fun. I do look forward to the next time that we have a slumber party!!

Christmas Traditions

Can you believe that it is only 15 more days until CHRISTMAS!!! I was talking on the phone today to a friend and was exclaiming how excited I am for Christmas!!! I just have the holidays. One thing that I love about the holidays is decorating, shopping, cooking, spending time with my family & friends, decorating, shopping, cooking, spending time with my family....and it just keeps on going on and on!!!

I visited a friend's blog the other day and she was sharing her favorite Christmas tradition. So, I started thinking of all our family Christmas traditions. Such traditions seem to connect the dots between families. I find myself incorporating those fun traditions in my own life. Isn't it great?!

Anyway, one of my favorite traditions is that every Christmas Eve, Mom, Dad and I put on our new Christmas pajamas. We then make hot chocolate. I snuggle in between Mom and Dad on the couch and we read the new Christmas release book from Deseret Book or Seagull book. (Oh, the book is read by my Dad). Amongst these books are A Christmas Dress for Ellen and Christmas Oranges. I can't wait to find out what book we get to read, this year. So, if you are in the neighborhood around 9:00 pm on Christmas Eve and you have nothing else to do....drop in for hot chocolate and a story. I know that you will enjoy it as much as me!!!

I still love doing this even though I am not a little girl anymore. It is my alone time with Mom and Dad and it is FANTASTIC!!! Thanks Mom and Dad for this fabulous tradition!! I look forward to each year.

I would love to hear what your favorite traditions are. Please share them with me!!

the little monkey

Tonight, I had the blessed opportunity of spending time with my little niece. She has the cutest smile and sweetest giggle. But, the funniest thing about her is she squishes her face up and makes this little monkey noise. I was singing, "Once there was a snowman" to her and she would squish her little face up and make the monkey sound and then she would giggle. It was hilarious. I am not sure who was having more fun--Miss B or me. We were having tons of fun until we had...two episodes of throwing up and two sets of clothes changing and a bout of screaming (the little monkey was the one screaming!!).

But, then I remembered my mom telling me that she sings to Miss B when she is upset. So, I started singing, "I am a child of God" and the screaming stopped. WOW!!! That was too cool. She just snuggled up and fell asleep (for about 15 minutes) but it was amazing to realize the power of music.

When she woke up, we snuggled together on the couch and watched a Christmas movie. She was not about to go to sleep, but it was fun cuddling with her. Like I have said before, she is the sweetest thing ever!!! I know that I was ready to turn in for the night when Miss B left. WOW!! I have a friend that is expecting her 9th...Gerb, how do you do it?!

it's better to be safe than sorry

It seems like everyday is an excitement for me. I guess, if you look for fun things to happen they happen...okay, when I wake up every morning THE ADVENTURE BEGINS!!! It is usually quite entertaining. One of the girls at work, Julie, told me that when I get married, my husband is going to have a lot of fun. Okay, I am not sure if that was suppose to be a compliment meaning that I am a hoot to be around or is it that there is so much adventure in my life--he is going to be laughing his head off every second of the day. I bet the answer is the latter.

Well, I had only been home 10 minutes--time enough to find that the washer was not being used, sort my laundry on my bathroom floor and then put a load of laundry in the washer when all of a sudden, I hear this horrific alarm. I sprint to the furnace room--my carbon monoxide/explosive gas alarm is blinking "GAS". I hit the reset button. The alarm will not stop!!! The horrific alarm is still going off. I grab it and run to the kitchen (why I did this--I am not all sure). I read that if the alarm is going off call 911!! So, I disconnect the battery--I could not hear at all. I dialed 911.

"911. What type of emergency do you have?"

"UM. I am not sure if it is an emergency. My carbon monoxide/explosive gas alarm is blinking GAS."

"Are you feeling faint?"

"UM. No."

"What is your phone number?"

I give her my name, phone number and my address.

"Are you having chest pains?"

"UM. No." (other than...I am completely scared too death at this point!)

"Is there anyone else in the house?"

"No."

"You need to exit the house immediately." I, literally, run outside-into the rain!!!

"Are you feeling faint?"

"No."

"Are you having problems breathing?"

"No, I am just scared too death."

"You are okay. Are you breathing okay?" Then, she tells me that when the explosive gas affects you, it hits you pretty fast. So, she kept asking how I was doing and all that kind of stuff.

The fire engine drives up...and the 911 dispatcher waits until the firemen are with me. (What a kind person--ok, ok, I know that is her job--but I thought that she was nice.)

They bring the detectors and they did not find anything wrong. They searched the whole house and there was not any explosive gas. Then for the next 10 minutes, they talked to me and made sure that I understood that it is better to be safe than sorry. They said if the alarm goes off again...do not hesitate to call. They had already responded to several of the same calls today. They said that these detectors have saved 4 families that live in Provo and that I have one of the best detectors. They said that they would have rather came tonight, then to find me dead in the morning. I think that they are correct on that one. I am glad I did not die tonight.

As we were leaving the house, Jen and Sariah showed up. They saw the fire engine and came to make sure all was okay. What great friends and neighbors. Jen noted that one of the fire men was very nice looking. I think that I was too nervous and FREAKED out to really notice.

So, my advice to all of my friends--

it is better to be safe than sorry!!

sink vs. hair

Being single has its advantages and disadvantages. One of the disadvantages is that when something needs a fix-it, you have to fix it. In all actuality, I have incredible parents. They are always there. When I need something fixed--it is Dad that I call. I know that he gets extremely tired of taking care of his daughter, but he does it!

Well, for the past few weeks, I have been fighting with my bathroom sink. It takes FOREVER to drain. I have tried Liquid Plumber, Draino, bleach, and any other Chinese solution that people have told me to try. THE SINK WILL NOT DRAIN!!! Okay, I know that I have a lot of hair. I know that it is everywhere. One thing, I know is that it loves the drains-whether it is the bathtub drain or the sink drain--it LOVES the drain. I am not sure if it goes there for refuge, but it ends up there all the time. When I go to my parents home to stay, Dad always comments on the amount of hair I leave behind. I swear, I check every drain when I am through--just so Dad can not make that comment. BUT, I seem to never find every strand.

So, I knew the problem with my bathroom sink--HAIR!!! Okay, so, tonight--while brushing my teeth, I became irate!! The sink was not draining!!!! I thought to call my Dad, but he was still at work. SO!!! I took matters into my own hands and disassembled the entire drain system from under my sink. I was amazed at my "handyman" skills.

I am not sure if I was going throw-up or pass out. Other than the sight was horrendous (I think that I could have made a wig out of how much hair was stuck in the pipes), but the smell was absolutely GAGGING!!!

But, I sucked up the "sissiness" in me and got to work. It took me about 45 minutes to get all the hair out of the drain. It was disgusting and yucky!!! Oh, how tonight, I wished that I had a husband to take care of this disgusting task!!! BUT, I was able to accomplish this UGLY, DISGUSTING, SMELLING, HORRENDOUS,... (and the list goes on and on)...TASK!!! I would say that I am pretty proud of myself.

Then, when I put everything back together...

THE SINK DRAINS!!!

New Moon

I FINISHED IT!!!! Between my HUGE list of things to do... I FINISHED IT!!! Now, I need to get ahold of the next book.

Okay....like I said before...I am addicted. This book is very descriptive--which I love--I am girl that LOVES details. I want to know everything and why and how and what.... So, Gerb, I went back and read your questions. I, too, want to know "if Bella is truly, irrevocably in love with Edward, why is she so disgusted with the idea of being married to him?" I am not married, but I am a tad bit concerned. Because if I was immensely in love with someone, I would want to marry that person. So, Gerb, I do agree with you. "WHAT IS HER PROBLEM??" Bella, go for it!!!

So, I need to get a hold of Eclipse and find out what happens with Bella? Does she become a vampire? Does she marry Edward? What happens with Jacob? What happens with Edward? Do they all become friends in the end? I have mixed feelings of who I like better--Edward or Jacob. Edward is definitely a fine guy, but I see potential with Jacob. OUCH!!! I just don't want anyone to get hurt. I like it when everyone gets along and is friends. Does that happen??? I know, I need to be realistic. Can you be realistic when it comes to reading these books?

Festival of Trees

Each year, my Mom and I visit the Festival of Trees and each year, my niece's dance team performs at the Festival. This year, we awoke to SNOW!!! Yes, we have snow!!! Finally--the snow has arrived. But, I do not like to drive in the snow. You never know what the people around you are going to do and sometimes, you never know what your car might do. On the way to the Festival, there were only a few cars off the side of the freeway--going the wrong way. But, we made it safe and sound.

So, to the festival to watch K-Bug...

She is an amazing dancer and very talented!

Then, off to the trees....

This one was decorate by a family that we know. It is dedicated to their little 4 year old boy that passed away. He loved ducks and this was a fabulous tree full of ducks! What a wonderful tribute to him.

I found this tree. It was dedicated to all of the police officers in Utah. Since, I have a friend that is a police officer....this one is for you!!

These 3 trees were decorated by Chris--our quilt instructor. Her and her sisters decorated these trees and dedicated them to their father, sister and brother. WOW!!!

These were fabulous!!!

Of course there were lots and lots of beautiful trees. The stories behind these trees brought lots of tears, but what a wonderful and peaceful feeling.

I found this saying on one of the trees....

"What we love to do...we find time to do!"

We arrived home safely...driving 10 miles an hour on the free way was definitely not fun--but for the most part of the day...It was all in all fabulous!!! A great way to start the Christmas season!!!

...holidays...

Well, just to let you know, I am my Mother's Daughter!! What-you might ask? My mother is a fanatic when it comes to the holidays. Every room has a tree and is completely decorated.


"Every room? "


"YES!! Including the bathroom. "


As for me, I am definitely my mother's daughter. I love Christmas. It is one of my favorite holidays and I LOVE to decorate. I do not have a tree in every room, but I am getting closer. I know that when I own my own home, I will have acquired enough decorations to decorate every room in my home.

Anyway, one of my "most" favorite traditions is that I have been in charge of putting Mom's village together. She has hand-painted every house, market, church, and so on...that pertains to the village. I love taking each item out of their designated storage box and placing it somewhere in the village. The village is on top of snow and white lights.

(I had to turn the lights off to take a good picture).

You really can not see it, but it has a skating rink in the center of the village with ice skaters. There is an amazing church, school house, bank, stores,...and the list goes on. It is simply amazing. Okay, simple is not the word, it is AMAZING!!

This year, I found myself creating the village as I talked and acted out each item. My mother was busily decorating the tree in the living room--I am not sure she noticed that her daughter was going crazy. Okay, it brought back lots of memories (from a very long time ago) when I would play with my barbies in their AMAZING home. Yes, I had practically everything that had to do with barbies. Thank goodness that I was the only girl in the family--I think I would have hated to share my barbie dream home. HA HA!


...holidays...don't you just love them!!!

The Big Game

Saturday--the big game day!!! The blue against the red! The cougs against the Utes! BYU against Utah!! All in all--it is a huge game day, especially for my Mom. She is the most truest blue fan ever!! I, absolutely, love watching 'the cougs' play when Mom is in the room!!! Sometimes it is more exciting to watch Mom then it is BYU!!! She is definitely a crazy person when it comes the BYU.

For the past couple of years, we have watched the BIG GAME at Scott's home on the big screen!! I am not sure if they really invite us over to watch the game, or do they really want to watch Mom go completely crazy!! This year, Mom was definitely on camera--K-bugs was videoing her from my cell and BGG was recording her reaction on his cell. He said that he was going to forward the footage to his friends to prove he has a crazy grandma!!! All in all--thanks BYU for a job well done!!! Mom, thanks for just being YOU!!

the refrigerator and a tv

After an interesting and bizarre day at work (which should be an interesting "blog" all by itself), I arrived home around 7:00 pm eager to get my list of "to do" things out of the way-so, I could have the pleasure of scrapbooking on this Thanksgiving eve.

As I walked through the back door, I started to crave a glass of ice-cold milk. I could almost taste it before I even poured it into the glass. It has been over a week since I have had a glass of milk. So, I opened the refrigerator, took out the milk carton, poured me a large glass of ice-cold milk and started to drink. UGH!!! No, it was not sour--it was WARM!! I thought, "oh, how bizarre!" I opened the refrigerator again to feel the milk carton--it was warm. The orange juice was warm, the diet coke was warm--everything was warm. I opened the freezer--everything was thawed out. No more frozen Popsicles, no more frozen ice cream, the hamburger, the chicken--all thawed. So, a quick phone call to California (our landlords) and then a phone call to my dad and then it was off to do some refrigerator shopping.

Did you know that there are so many different kinds of refrigerators. There are the 3-door refrigerators, side by side, 1-door, the ones with water dispensers, the ones without, black, white, chrome ones, ones that monitor the temperature on the outside, and the ones that monitor the temperature from the inside. But, my most favorite one of all was the one with the television on the door. It was approximately 3500 dollars. Not too bad--for a refrigerator and a TV???

Well, after looking at the all different types of refrigerators, the one that was chosen will not arrive until next Thursday. Can you believe it? One week to wait for a refrigerator!!! Oh, I did not opt to purchase the one with the TV!! Even though it would have been a fun item to talk about. I can see the conversation now--

"why do you have your couch facing the refrigerator?"

"Oh, that is where I watch TV! See how cool the television is? The only problem is that we miss some of the best parts of the show-due to opening and closing the refrigerator."

Oh, how bizarre!!!

I keep craving that ice-cold glass of milk! What is a girl to do without a nice glass of ice-cold milk? So, as I ponder the event of refrigerator shopping, I am so thankful that Thanksgiving dinner is at Mom and Dad's home. Side note: they have 2 refrigerators--I think that my milk will be safe there!!!

Happy Thanksgiving eve!!

Chicken noodle soup & popcicles

This past week has been the most bizarre week ever!!! I received a flu shot and on Monday, I hit rock bottom. I, literally, felt like my muscles were pulling away from my bones, I had a horrific horrible headache, congestion in my chest & lungs, a tremendous sore throat and a blasted cough and lots and lots of tears. So, yes, I hit rock bottom.

For 5 days straight, I slept, drank Theraflu, slept, and took Tylenol, and slept some more--then, of course, repeated all of that many many times. It was awful!!! My Mom kept wonderful tabs on me. She supplied me with plenty of meds and Popsicles. OH, how grateful I am for the man that created the Popsicles. He is one of my hero's. Plus, is my mom is definitely my hero for delivering that wonderful cold treat to me. She knew that when nothing else will slide down the throat, POPSICLES definitely will. Then, my sweet sister-in-law, Melissa, dropped by Thursday night with the most delicious chicken noodle soup. She is an amazing sister-in-law and friend. She is always doing kind things like this. How did she know that her near dead sister-in-law definitely needed a pick-me-up. With popsicles and chicken noodle soup, things are looking much better.

Friday evening, I decided to take a gander outside. I stood in my driveway and just was grateful for the new scenery. Did you know that it has been sunny all week? I did not!!! I do hope that you enjoyed the sunny weather and took complete advantage of it. I did not!! But, I am grateful for warm quilts, a bed, my pillow, a humidifier, Theraflu, Tylenol, Kleenexes, chicken noodle soup and Popsicles!!!

"can't-put-a-book-down-itis"

Okay, I am hooked--that is "I am hooked on the Twilight series written by Stephenie Meyer!" I purchased the so-called book after starting to read Gerb's post on it. But, I can not finish reading her post until I have finished New Moon-which if I had it in my hands I would not attend any of my meetings for today. So, I guess, it is a good thing for me-at least, spiritually, to NOT have it in my hands today.

This particular book has been waiting on the edge of my desk to read since September 6th. I have this disease called "can't-put-a-book-down-itis". It was passed to me by my sweet mom. Anyway, I have had a huge mess in my scrapbook room. So, I made a deal with myself, if I clean and organize my scrapbook room, then and only then, would I be able to read Twilight. So, it is now two months later and I am able to partake of my reward.

So, for the book, I was hooked after the first few chapters-okay, the first few pages. I would have to admit that at first, I did not like Edward. But, now, oh, what an amazing guy!!! One day, I hope to meet this type of guy--oh, not the vampire part, but the other part. Most of my friends have wonderful husbands in their lives, but they helped create that amazing part. As for me, I am ready just to meet that amazing guy--all created! Oh, how I wished that I had New Moon in my hands!! I just have to know what happens!! Does Edward grant Bella's wish? What happens with Alice? What about Charlie? What about Jacob? Like I said, I wish that I had the next book in my hands!

just keep swimming

Tonight, as I was getting ready for bed, I turned on my television and the movie "Finding Nemo" was playing. I really enjoy this movie. One of my most favorite parts is:

"Hey Mr Grump Gills

You know what you gotta do when life gets you down?

Just keep swimming

Just keep swimming

Just keep swimming swimming swimming

What do we do we swim, swim, swim

OH HO HO How I love to swim

When you WAAAAAANNTTT to swim you want to swim."

So, my advice to you this day is "when life gets you down", all you need to do is "just keep swimming!" We surely do not want anyone to call us "Mr. Grump Gills".

Happy Halloween

Well, it has been an eventful day full of halloween festivities. Vieve and I were the only ones that dressed up in our department. But, hey, we laughed a lot and created a lot of halloween excitment. I went as "4" and Vieve was "Miss Murder". I failed to get a picture of my costume , but if you happen to watch "Grey's Anatomy", you will understand what the costume of "4" would be. As for Vieve, I can not believe that she stayed 9 hours in 'the beauty queen outfit.' It is definitely all in the Halloween spirit!

We had plenty of vistors at work today. Amongst them were the most darling witch, ghost and 'little nemo'. When they came into our office, I was exclaiming how darling they were. The witch reminded me that they were the little girls that frequent my desk. It was great--their costumes were so real-like that I did not know who they were! HEE HEE!!! My picture of them did not turn out, so check out the Phathom DDS blog.

Tonight, I visited one of the most incredible haunted house. My fabulous friend and her family have created the most incredible haunted house. It was amazing!! I can't even imagine how many hours this amazing scene has taken to create. I know that I will be attending next year.

The pumpkins on the stairs....such a frightful looking scene!

These were the fresh graves of those who did not make it out alive!

I am glad that I made it out ALIVE!!

Then, it was off to my Mom and Dad's to see what was happening there. A pirate and a bumblebee were entertaining them. Such a fun scene!!

K-Bug's the Pirate

Miss Brylie as the bumblebee!

Would you want a pirate to kiss you?


All in all, it was a fabulous halloween! I hope that yours was equally fun!!

Have you created a back-up?

Well, this morning, I needed to check on something on my computer--okay, the real thing is that I needed to log onto http://www.mapquest.com/ and find directions to a particular address. I am 100% addicted to mapquest. I am not the greatest address finder--so, I am eternally grateful for billionaire who developed mapquest and the "get directions" button on the internet. Bless his soul!!!

Anyway, I turn on my computer and then, all of a sudden-I get an error and a blue screen. At work, the blue screen is aka. "THE BLUE SCREEN OF DEATH!" I start to panic for when you receive the "blue screen of death" on your computer moniter--you know that you had better have some back-up to all the files on your computer or it is hopeless. My heart dropped-that feeling when you know that you have not back-uped any files for--let's just say-NEVER!!! So, I am panicing--years of daily journal entries, pictures, receipts for taxes, and everything that contains importance items that create the "Michelle World".

Side note: 2 years ago, I had to teach a class at our annual meetings on I was asked to teach a class on security with computers. A huge emphasis was the importance of creating a back-up of ALL the information on your computer. Oh, my goodness!!! You would think that if I taught it, I should practice it!!

So, a quick call to my Mom for directions to my destination and a quick run down of what happened on my computer and I was on my way. Anyway, after a very busy day, my cool dad came to my rescue!!! Of course, he had to ask me if when my last back-up was created. "UM!! NEVER!!" But, like I said, he came to my rescue AGAIN!!! He fixed my computer--the blue-screen of death is gone and my files are now all restored and I am a happy camper!! Yep, I have the coolest dad ever!!! Thanks Dad!!

So, I ask you--"When did you create your last back-up?"

"happy voice"

One of my most favorite people in my life is my niece, Kaylie. Since the day that she was born, I have completely-100% adored her. She seems to always be the sunshine on a rainey day. One thing that I just adore about her is that she is dramatic-in action and in speech. On Tuesday, Mom, Kaylie and I went to watch Brandon (her older brother and my nephew) play football. Brandon plays for Spanish Fork High School and they are in the middle of State Play-offs. The game was against Lone Peak and we were playing on neutral ground--Lehi High School. (I know that you were wanting to know all that). It was cold and we were amongst a lot of blankets. Anyway, my mom's cell phone was ringing. Kaylie picks it up and before she answers it--she says, "okay, happy voice, happy voice". Then, she answers all chipper and excited to speak to her mom (who was lost in 5:00 traffic on the freeway--trying to get to the game to watch her son).

Of course, I just giggled. I was thinking to myself "how cute". But, then, as I have pondered that over the past few days. "How do I answer the phone?" "Am I excited to talk to whomever is on the other end of the phone?" "What was their day like?" All these type of questions have been going through my mind. Mostly, I am a cheerful person, but I do have my down days. So, today, as I got up on the wrong side of the bed (for some reason, I am not sure how that would have happen--there is only one side to get up from), I had a grumpy outlook on life. Well, mid-day, I received a phone call from a friend. It was completely out of the blue and I have not spoken to him for quite sometime. I answered the phone-kind of matter-of-factly. Then, I heard, "Hey Sweetie, how are you doing?" It was someone with a "happy voice". How did he know that I was having a no good, rotten, grumpy day? But, somehow, he did and then, I realized--Kaylie was right. We need to start each phone call with a "happy voice". Infact, maybe we need to start each conversation with a "happy voice".

Do you have your HaPpY vOiCe with you today?

Is this proper card etiquette?

When I get stressed and feel like the world is about to crash down, there are many things that I LOVE to do to relieve that stressful feeling. One of them is to make cards. I have a passion for homemade cards. I love creating them and I love to send them out to people. It is not that I want them to acknowledge how awesome the card is (okay, maybe sometimes they are not that awesome), it is that I have created it from my heart. I had a roommate one time that told me that if she ever received a store purchased card from me--she knew that our friendship is over. Oh, I really need to be careful not to send anyone that thinks that a store purchased card from me is an end to our friendship.

So, when Sariah (our enrichment counselor) asked me to create 12 cards that can be taught for Super Saturday, I was in complete heaven. Maybe with the week that I had, I would not have stayed up till 3am cutting little pieces of paper--but I was still in heaven--creating and cutting! It really did not seem like it was 3am when I looked at the clock. Thank goodness for TNT (Cable TV) for the fun movies that were being played at that time of the morning.

Super Saturday was a hit--if I might say so myself. There were 7 of us that made 12 cards that day-5 others to teach another day. But, amongst the 4 hours that it took to create these cards (I forget the speed of the non-cardmakers), we had a blast laughing and giggling. The joke through out the day was "Is this proper card etiquette?" All in all it was a fabulous day!!!

In Loving Memory

Since I heard the news of Kerrie’s passing away, I have had a really dark rain cloud over my head. Well, today I attended her funeral with some dear friends, Maria and Kim. I knew that I would not make it through without shedding quite a few tears. I have had so many questions of why she had to be taken from her sweet husband and her 3 beautiful daughters. I am thankful for the peaceful feeling and the words that were spoken from the pulpit today. It is amazing how the Holy Ghost can comfort those who are in need of comfort. I am grateful for her sweet Bishop, Bishop Alder as he spoke of Kerrie. He, too, questioned why did this have to happen. He then remarked that we do not know why, we just need to proceed and continue with faith. Her sister, uncle and brother-in-law spoke of many cherished memories of Kerrie and the belief that all is in the Lord's hands.

After her husband dedicated the grave, we all witnessed a very sweet and tender moment. Trent took Madison and Ruby over to the casket and let them smell the flowers and then, pick a flower from off of their mother's casket. With tears streaming down our faces, we were able to witness a tender moment between this young father and his 2 sweet daughters. I am grateful for the belief and knowledge of the Plan of Salvation. I am grateful for the knowledge of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

A new arrival for the Gren Family

The Newest Arrival

Hammey Robo Gren

adopted on Friday, October 12th

by K-Bugs

Well, we received a new little (when I say little, I mean little) arrival at the Gren home. Actually, thank goodness it is not at my home, but the home of my sassy animal lover niece. She has been saving her money for this adorable little....rodent--okay, hamster for quite sometime now. She had created her own little spreadsheet where she had the stores and the prices of each of the things that she would need to purchase before the arrival of Hammey. Then, she figured out which store she would purchase the items needed for this new little baby. Here is her explanation:

• The cage was $4.00 and was purchased from one of our cousins (she said this was quite a deal since the cages in the stores were at least $20.00).
• The food was $1.99.
• The exercise ball for the hamster was $2.99.
• The hamster was $10.00.
• The cotton balls that the hamster needed to make his bed was free--she said she found them in the bathroom cupboard. What a deal!!
• A total of $18.98 without taxes!! But PRICELESS for all the memories that K-Bugs and Hammey will share together.

She was explaining to me that she had to wait 3 days to play with him. The reason was that he is a little bit hyper and needs to get use to his surroundings. But, she said that it was way too difficult to not play with him and besides she said that a family at the pet store said that they did not wait and their hamster was alive for 4 1/2 years.

K-Bugs is so excited for her new little friend. She is already teaching Hammey to climb the stairs, go through the tunnel, and give kisses through the window in his new found home. But, he has also gotten into a little bit of trouble. Last night, he jumped out of K-Bugs hands and scurried underneath the television set. She said that when she finally retrieved him, he was grounded for the night. I know that there will be many more adventure with K-Bugs and Hammey--this has only just begun. As for me, I will admire Hammey from a far.

goodbye Lodda

Sometimes we find ourselved doing things that are really difficult to do. On Tuesday, my friend Vieve said goodbye to her loyal friend-Lodda. Lodda has been apart of her life for 15 years. She has been a loyal friend to her. It is so interesting how we can develop a relationship with an animal that patterns the relationships that we have with our family and friends. Then, when we have to decide the fate of this animal, we are completely 100% devastated. I think that is one of my reasons why I admire pets from a far.

For instance, when I was living on campus, one of my roommates was going home for a vacation. But, she had a serious dilema--she had a goldfish that she was taking care of for one of her classes. The grade that she would receive would determine on the life of this goldfish. She asked if I could take care of this interesting orange colored goldfish. Our study habits were pretty close to each other (Crystal and mine-that is), so she knew that I would be equally serious about this goldfish. Well, let me tell you...I have never lived in so much fear--okay, that is definitely a lie, I have experienced worse fear than that. But, this type of fear was near the top of the list.

Each day, I would arrive home, I would sneak--yes, I would sneak into the bedroom and tip toe over to the fish bowl. Okay, I am not sure why I would sneak and tip toe--but it helped with the fear. Then, I would squint at the bowl to make sure that it was still alive. This went on for the first 4 days of her vacation. I was so glad that when day 5 came, the goldfish was still alive. WHEW!!! Okay, not really.

Back to the original story, Vieve and her family had to put Lodda to sleep. Vieve came back to work and told me that Lodda is now running and playing on a farm with all the other friends that passed away before him. I guess, that is probably the best way to look at it.

the most delicious apple ever!

On Saturday, I decided to do a little bit of grocery shopping at one of my favorite grocery stores. As I was perusing in the fruits and veggies department, a lady was handing out samples of apples. She was carrying around an apple and a sharp knife. While she was talking to people, she was just cutting off pieces of apple to eat. It was quite the interesting sight and a little bit entertaining. I kept thinking to myself, "is this sanitary and should I ask SAFE?" I tried, desperately, to stay away from her. But, everywhere I turned, she was right there. Kind of like a scary part in a movie. Okay, it wasn't that bad. Anyway, let me share a little tid bit about myself. I am not much of an apple eater. The reason for this is I do not like "mushy" things especially fruit. Another thing is that I do not like to spend money on "mushy" fruit or fruit that will turn mushy as soon as it is in the refrigerator. I really do not have good luck keeping fruits and veggies crisp.

Well, back to the lady handing out samples of apples. She had already approached me twice to taste her sample of goodness. I kind of felt like screaming-"Stranger Danger". Okay, not really, but she kept coming up to me to have a taste. Finally, I took one of her samples and let me tell you....it was so delicious!!! I had never tasted an apple so delicious. So, when I turned to ask her where these apples might be located--she had disappeared. But, over in the apple section, were thousands--okay, maybe not thousands-it could have been closer to 10 people --grabbing this most delectable treat. I knew that I needed to get my hands on those apples. So, I grabbed my shopping cart and tried to get closer, but I could not. Ladies were going crazy over them. Maybe they were like me, finally finding a delicious apple is worth the fight. These ladies were going crazy over these apples. Then, I decided the best thing to do is jump over the display and dive right into the apples. Do you really think that I would have done that? I really am not that crazy!!

I just waited in line and finally it was my turn to peruse the apples. I found 2 that looked so delicious. I placed them in my cart and headed to the check out line. Well, after paying what I did for these two apples, I really think that they were filled with gold. Okay, I am not sure what the price of apples are going at this day and age--remember, I usually do not purchase apples, but is $3.50 expensive for 2 apples? Anyway, no matter what the cost, these apples were delicious. I saved one for Sunday night--for a special treat and then ate the last one tonight. Oh, what would I do to have another one of them in my refrigerator waiting for another delicious treat night. Oh, I never thought that I would crave apples, but these apples are worth the craving!!!!

My new best friend...

For the past while, I have had my best friend staying with me. His name is Mr. Insomnia. He frequents quite regularly and keeps me up all hours of the night. No matter what I have tried, he never wants to leave. No matter how exhausted I am, he will not leave. He is just too crazy. Okay, maybe he is driving me completely crazy!! Did you know that there really is not a whole lot of stuff on television between the hours of midnight and 5:30 am? So, Mr. Insomnia and I have become really close. In fact, I found myself talking to him--yes, out loud. Oh, do you think that I am really going crazy?

There are a few things that I have found that I can NOT do in the middle of the night--first and for foremost--I can not run the vacuum cleaner--even though it does not seem loud--during the wee hours of the morning--it is loud. VERY LOUD. Which does not make people living with me very happy. Nor can you really do a lot of baking. No matter how quiet I am trying to be, I always seem to drop a pan or something that is equally loud. VERY LOUD. Oh, also, the timer on the stove--sounds as if the fire alarm is going off--int he middle of the night, VERY LOUD! Did you know that even the washer is loud in the middle of the night? VERY LOUD!!! Did you know that there are a lot of people driving on the road in the middle of the night? Even the cars are loud. Not as loud of the mishaps in my condo, but loud. I always wonder where the people driving those cars are going and what they are doing. Oh, do you know how many times, the tow truck goes up and down our lane--in the middle of the night? ALOT!!!

I have found that my love for reading has really brought a problem with keeping Mr. Insomnia from leaving. I admit strongly that when I find a good book, I am hooked. When I say hooked, I mean really hooked. When I start reading, I want to know what happens at the end. I never cheat and read the last part of the book. I have to read it all the way through. Usually, I have to set a timer next me and when the timer goes off, I have to remove the book from my sight. I have chosen to blame this on my sweet mother. I inherited my love for books from my her. Bless her heart. She is the one to blame for all of this. She is the one to blame when I can not put a book down and find that I have read all night long. But, she is the same way. If it has intrigued her just a tad bit, she is out of commission until it is finished. As you can see, she is all to blame.

So, instead of feeding Mr. Insomnia with a good book. I have found something equally addicting. That is Grey's Anatomy. My friend, Vieve, has introduced to me her friends-Meredith, McDreamy, McSteamy, Alex, Callie, George, Izzie, Dr. Bailey, the Chief, Addison, Kristine and all the others that create this addicting delicious show. Well, I can definitely say that I am 100% addicted. Being addicted to a television show is not like me. It is crazy. But, since I am joining the crazy side of life--I will admit that I am addicted. So, since Mr. Insomnia has been an active part in my life, I have watched Season 1, Season 2 and Season 3 numerous times. The endings never change, but my ideas for new endings are right inside my head. Okay, actually, I do know how many times I have watched the entire show, but that will be for me to know.

As for me, I am off to finish the last episode of Season 3 one more time....Okay, I am not proud of this new addiction, but it does help with the lack of entertainment at 2:00 in the morning. On the other hand, I do wish that I would be sleeping, but since I am not doing that...I am analyzing all of the different relationships that are happening on my television set. But, most of all--I hope you are getting a great nights sleep!

Circles taste YUCKY!!!

Have you ever looked back on life and tried to figure out why you do something the way that you do? Or say the things you say? Or maybe eat or not eat something because of some incident in life? Have you ever noticed that the way food tastes depends on the way that it looks? Well, when I was a little girl and still to this moment in time--I do not eat circle foods. You probably had to reread that sentence again, so I will state it again. I do not eat circle foods. Why? I knew that you were going to ask. The word that describes how they taste is "YUCKY". Basically, if you change a circle into a square or an oval or a rectangle, it will taste so much better. YES!! I have a huge aversion to circle foods.

See, here is the story....when I was a little girl, a UFO landed in our backyard and I looked out my bedroom window and all I could see was this GIGANTIC CIRCLE. It frightened me--so much that I declared that I would never eat anything that resembles that scary memory. Okay, I know, that was not true. There was never a UFO.

So, it might have been...actually, I am not sure when all of this started nor do I remember the reason behind it. It just happened. I have had lots of people try to analyze my "circle phobia", but have not had any luck. Basically, people just think that I am CRAZY!!! I do admit that it is kind of strange, but not as CRAZY as some people think.

Have you ever noticed how many food items are circles? Probably, you have never thought of that question before--but humor me and think of it? Lots of foods come in the forms of circles. I am not the type of person that usually introduces myself "Hi, my name is Michelle and I do not eat circle foods." Okay, I did introduce myself that way to a group of Young Women Leaders and Stake Youth Leaders for camp. But, in the social part of life, you just try to keep this little bit of insanity to yourself. But, sometimes it does happen to get out.

You might ask, how do I handle the whole circle aversion. Well, I do not try to bring attention to myself when eating any kind of food. If it is a circle, I can use my knife and cut it in half or in a square. So, this is where I declare my gratitude to the inventor of the knife. THANK YOU KNIFE MAN. He, the knife man, has saved me in so many difficult social situations. If there is not a knife handy and I am unable to tear it apart with my hands (without anyone noticing), then, I just push it to side of the plate and let "Mr. Garbage" have his handle at it. Personally, I think he likes anything.

So, you might understand the anxiety that I must have felt when invited to a "Kabob" barbecue. As, I approached the table, all I saw was CIRCLES!!!! Everything had been cut in circles, not squares or rectangles, but CIRCLES. But, looking around, I found "Mr. Knife!" All I can say is THANK YOU, THANK YOU MR. KNIFE FOR SAVING ME, ONCE AGAIN!! So, I placed all of the circle foods on my skewer and placed it on the barbecue.

Then, it was finally cooked and ready to eat. I grabbed my knife and cut everything that I needed to into squares and triangles. It ended up being the most delicious kabob ever!!! Yes, my young women friends found me to be a tad bit crazy, but I proposed the question, "Don't you think that 'circle' foods taste YUCKY?!! They taste much better when they are cut into squares, rectangles, triangles, etc...definitely NOT CIRCLES!!

Is a purse worth a speeding ticket? YES!!!

Last night, at my mom's house, we had an exciting, thrilling, eventful and fabulous purse party. For those of you who don't know what a purse party is, it's a "party" where we gals get together, peruse for purses, eat treats and just get to know each other. This party was a lot of fun; there were yummy treats, fun friends, and lots and lots of purses. There was quite the arrangement of colorful purses--blue, green, dead palamino horse color, red, black, and on and on.... Oh, I just might add that there were a few "interesting" purses. I spent most of the evening trying to get someone to buy a particularly 'interesting" purse-bright yellow and as big as a house. My persuasion was, maybe with this purse--they could buy a yellow raincoat, and be the Morton salt guy! There is nothing in this world cooler than emulating a man on a salt carton.

This is a picture of one of my good friends, Genevieve, with her new fabulous purse. Which I might add that she extremely LOVES!!! The best part, in her opinion, is the matching wallet that she also happened to pick up. She was in such an excitement to come to the party, she got pulled over on the way by Mr. Spanish Fork Policeman! 65 in a 50 mph zone, and she got a ticket. He had no sympathy for someone on their way to a FANTASTIC purse party. I guess to some people, there's nothing like a purse party!

A new beginning....

I love this time of year. When summer is changing to fall, when the leaves are changing colors, when the weather is cooling down(oh, I love sweater & sweatshirt weather), LDS General Conference is around the corner and it is the start to a new beginning. I once heard someone (oh, how, I wish I could remember who said it) say that General Conference time is like a new beginning. It happens every 6 months and it is a perfect time to reflect on what you have done since the previous General Conference. The thoughts and questions that might be asked--were you kinder to one another? Were you more thoughtful? Were you more restrained in criticism?Were you more generous with compliments? It is a nice time to rethink how we are doing and what we are doing. What can we work on during the next 6 months? How can we be a better person? Is there anyone we can help?

Tonight, I attended the LDS Relief Society broadcast at the Conference Center with some dear friends. It was amazing!!! I had never been inside this incredibly beautiful building. Let me just add...it was FABULOUS!!! Even though this building is structurally beautiful, the spirit inside was more incredible than I can describe.

As I think of the all things that I could & would have been doing on this particular Saturday evening, I am grateful to know that I was in a place where I was suppose to be. I am grateful to be in the same builiding as our Prophet, President Gordan B. Hinckley and other amazing leaders. The words that were spoken by our General Relief Society Presidency and by President Thomas S. Monson were exactly what I needed to hear. In fact, I felt that the things that were spoken were directed in my behalf. Isn't it fabulous when you feel that way? I am grateful to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint. I know without a shadow of doubt that this is the only true church upon this earth.


Even thought it was cold and stormy outside today....Today was a beautiful day and a great way to start a new beginning!!!

oh, deliciousness....

Ever since I was a little girl, my true treat in life was to go to the office supply store. I could and would browse the paper aisle for hours. Oh, this was heaven for me. I was easily bribed to the do the dishes, vacuum, or whatever it may be just to go the "paper" store. Then, as I grew-up, paper is still a delicious treat. Oh, so many scrapbooking papers to look at and to touch, papers that are bright & cheery, papers that are more matted and dull, papers that have words all over them, papers...papers...papers--oh, I know that I am in heaven when I am surrounded by fun and exciting papers. Maybe this is one of the reasons that I love being a CTMH consultant. So, when I received the most delicious treat in the mail today--the "From Me to You Card Kit", I knew life was simply FABULOUS. As I opened up this box of happiness, all the worries and stresses seemed to disappear for a time. I know, definitely, that I am in heaven.

People might think that I am crazy when it comes to scrapbooking and card making, but I just remind them that they probably do not know what heaven is all about. For this is my world-my sanctuary-my heaven--the world of paper, ink, ribbons and stamps--my stress relief!