What else is there to do at home during the cold month of January when the winter blues start to get you crazy and itching for spring? Well in our house it means that it is dance time. I have 2 fabulous kids who love to dance. The minute they hear music no matter where it is you will see them bobbing up and down. The talent of a 4 year old and a 19 month old.

Here is the acting of Daddy to provide the Handy Manny show for his kids. They don't get to see him much, so he made this video for them to watch when they miss him. Enjoy, we sure did.

This Utah weather is quite crazy. One day it will snow and the trees will be covered and then the next day there won't be any snow at all.


Jaxon is such a great little dancer. Boy do we love him to pieces.


What a cute little smile you have. Our little boy is starting to show signs of terrible twos, and boy am I not excited.


Mommy can you stop it with the pictures. I think you have enough.


Everything is funny to this little guy. He runs into walls, rolls on carpet till he is red, and thinks that he is a clown.


This is Jaxon our little vampire. It is so funny when he smiles, all you can see is fangs.


Dancing around and around and around.


Abby my super duper dancer. Can't wait to find a Jazz class for her.


Tongue anyone?


Abby smiling for the camera. Cheezin it up.


Abby and Handy Manny. I have no idea where this girl has picked up some of the things that she says. She now pretends that Manny is her boyfriend. She told me the other guy dumped her, and left her alone at the dance and Manny came along and told her he would watch out for her and love her. Boy am I going to have my hands full when this little girl gets older. You aren't even 5 Abby, slow down on the dating and worrying about guys.


As Abby gazes out the window I remind her that she is still little, and should have very little or no cares in the world.

Boy last week was probably one of the longest weeks in my life. Bradly switched companies and now is getting paid a lot more for the same amount of work he was doing at the other company. It is still close to home so sharing the car isn't going to be a problem. He is also working part-time at another company so that we can get ahead and start saving money. So Bradly works from 8AM-Noon Monday thru Friday. 2 Saturdays a month working from 9AM-1PM. The second job for the first 6 weeks he works 3:30PM-Midnight Monday thru Friday, and after the six weeks will work 1:30PM-10PM Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday. It has meant a lot of changes for the kids, but I think they are doing better now. I have redone the bedtime schedule and the daily schedule so that it works for everyone. Bedtime has been going a lot better lately. I give the kids dinner between 5:30-6pm. Then we have bath time till about 6:30pm. We do night time lotion and pajamas and then books until 6:55pm, and then soft music and bed. AMEN for bedtime last week. When Wednesday came around I was sure glad that they went to bed nicely, and I was able to get things done around the house. Starting school online in about a week, and night time will be the time that I get homework done. Our bestest friend Moroni and his family are moving away from us, and we are saddened by that. But it will be good for them, and it will just be a 30 minute drive to visit. Lots of changes in our household, but we are hoping that the changes will be good for our family, and that things will go smooth. Abby asked me today what my favorite show was, and I had to say Handy Manny on Disney. Can you tell there isn't much time for me, and I have kids? It is a fun show. Jaxon loves Handy Manny and the Toy Story crew. We have read Toy Story every night for the last week, and now he says the names and makes their sounds. I tried to hide the book today, but he searched the closet until he found it. He loves reading books, and I can't wait to get him outside when it gets warmer. Abby is really into her dollhouse. I have a scheduled time that I get to play with her, and it is funny sometimes the things that she has picked up from her parents and others around her. I hope to get out in the next day or 2 and get some updated pictures taken. Sorry there aren't any pictures, but life is busy for us. Have a great week everyone.

Below is a list of foods that will help those who are fighting cancers, or want to ward off cancer as much as possible. Try and include one out of each group in your foods all day.

1)GARLIC, ONIONS, SCALLIONS


2)BLUEBERRIES, RASPBERRIES, STRAWBERRIES, AND POMEGRANATES


3)BROCCOLI, CAULIFLOWER, BOK CHOY, CABBAGE


4)WINTER SQUASH, PUMPKINS, SWEET POTATOES, CARROTS


5)MUSHROOMS


6)PARSLEY, ROSEMARY, THYME, OREGANO, AND MINT


7)GINGER


8)TURMERIC AND CURRY


9)SEAWEED


10)GREEN TEA

I'M TRYING TO BE LIKE JESUS


I’m trying to be like Jesus;
I’m following in his ways.
I’m trying to love as he did, in all that I do and say.
At times I am tempted to make a wrong choice,
But I try to listen as the still small voice whispers,

Chorus
“Love one another as Jesus loves you.
Try to show kindness in all that you do.
Be gentle and loving in deed and in thought,
For these are the things Jesus taught.”

I’m trying to love my neighbor;
I’m learning to serve my friends.
I watch for the day of gladness when Jesus will come again.
I try to remember the lessons he taught.
Then the Holy Spirit enters into my thoughts, saying:

Chorus
“Love one another as Jesus loves you.
Try to show kindness in all that you do.
Be gentle and loving in deed and in thought,
For these are the things Jesus taught.”



We live in a world that continues to become dark, dreary, and violent. Wouldn't it be wonderful if we all could live like Christ did while he walked the earth. He gave to others, fed others, taught others, never judged, loved beyond all capacities of love, and taught us all to become better than the world in which we lived. Can we all find a place in this world? Can we find the peace we need to live on earth during this time? Can we walk in the true light of Christ? Can we better ourselves, and in so doing better others in our path? Can we stand tall and walk with our heads held high? Not in snobbery, but in knowing that we have done all that we can while here on earth. Did we stop to smell the roses? Did we feel the rain our face? Have we heard the birds singing or did we miss it entirely? Did we testify of Christ? Did we love those who needed love or did we look the other way and only worry about ourselves? Did we do the best we could to build up the souls of others, or did we participate in grinding them down? Did we teach our children love and respect? Did we believe in and live what Jesus taught? I have been the receiver of good things and of bad. I have felt of the pain when others have tried to break my heart. I have also on the other hand felt the love and support from friends and loved ones right at the time in life when I needed it most. Can we try and walk more like Christ did? Can we reevaluate our lives and strive harder in 2011 to become more like a child innocent and pure and become more like Jesus? Giving and not asking for anything in return. Turning to our knees when we need to find an answer or when we just need to feel comfort and peace. Striving to be that example, that friend, to someone we may not even know needs a hand. Can we pledge to be better? I can and I will. I am thinking that 2011 will be a huge change for me. A year of bettering myself, and realizing that not one person is perfect; we can only do our best. Walking in the light, and seeking what my soul yearns for. Life is an adventure and everyday there are new things to learn and experience.

The only thing permanent in life is family.



Six years ago today, Grandpa Rich Long suddenly passed away. It was a devastating loss felt by many across the country and the world, but even harder on his family and beautiful wife Sue. He left us without warning, and although time has past we miss him still as much. Dad was very accomplished and anywhere he went he touched the lives of many. There are so many people that Dad inspired that we can now see the great legacy he left behind. Abby and Jaxon never met their grandpa on earth, but I am for sure that they met him in heaven before they came. We miss you Grandpa and wish you were still here with us, but we know that your work in heaven is vast. We will see you again someday, and for that we are grateful. Enjoy the pictures below of times gone by. Rest in Peace our angel Grandpa.

Today we have learned to appreciate the little things in life. Like bugs, butterflies, air to breath, ants, bubbles, and snowflakes that glisten while falling looking like glitter. It's the little things in life that can turn a day from good to bad. A smile from a child, a note in the mail, a prayer in your heart, or breakfast in bed. Our goal this month and next month are to make little differences in the world for others. From volunteering to help different charity groups, to dropping homemade things off for those who simply just need some love, to brightening someones day out of surprise, and just being nice. We hope that this will spread through our families and friends, so that we can all help make this world a better place. One of Abby's favorite things is butterflies now. She loves how simple and beautiful they are. Her favorite song right now is Butterfly Kisses, by Bob Carlisle. So we have included the lyrics for you. She says it reminds her of peace, and angel kisses sent down from heaven from her grandpa's. Ah, the peace and love you can only understand from the innocence of a child. I am so proud of her for wanting to help others, and for understanding we are all individuals.



Butterfly Kisses lyrics
By, Bob Carlisle

There's two things I know for sure
She was sent here from heaven
And she's daddy's little girl
As I drop to my knees by her bed at night
She talks to Jesus and I close my eyes
And I thank God for all of the joy in my life
Oh but most of all

For butterfly kisses after bedtime prayer
Stickin' little white flowers all up in her hair
Walk beside the pony daddy it's my first ride
I know the cake looks funny daddy but I sure tried

Oh with all that I've done wrong
I must have done something right
To deserve a hug every mornin'
And butterfly kisses at night

Sweet 16 today
She's lookin' like her mama a little more every day
One part woman the other part girl
To perfume and make up from ribbons and curls
Trying her wings out in a great big world
But I remember

Butterfly kisses after bedtime prayer
Stickin' little white flowers all up in her hair
You know how much I love you daddy
But if you don't mind
I'm only gonna kiss you on the check this time

Oh with all that I've done wrong
I must have done something right
To deserve her love every mornin'
And butterfly kisses at night

All the precious time
Like the wind the years go by
Precious butterfly
Spread your wings and fly

She'll change her name today
She'll make a promise and I'll give her away
Standing in the bride room just staring at her
She asked me what I'm thinkin'
And I said I'm not sure
I just feel like I'm loosin' my baby girl
And she leaned over

Gave me butterfly kisses with her mama there
Stickin' little white flowers all up in her hair
Walk me down the isle daddy
It's just about time
Does my wedding gown look pretty daddy?
Daddy's don't cry

Oh with all that I've done wrong
I must have done something right
To deserve her love every mornin'
And butterfly kisses

I couldn't ask God for more than this is what love is
I know I've got to let her go but I'll always remember
Every hug in the mornin' and butterfly kisses

I finished another book today. "Band of Sisters", by Annette Lyon. This is an amazing fiction book written about 5 women whose husbands are called to duty. In the military most of the time your family are the fellow members that surround you. I haven't served in the military, but I know it has to be a challenge. It has been said before by military wives, "You just don't GET it!!" None of us will ever know until we are in their shoes. But we pray daily for all who serve the country whether it is the family or the military member themselves. Each gives up a great sacrifice to protect our land. They aren't guaranteed that they will return safely. They just get up and go and protect our soil. Thank-you so much for all who have served our country, to all who are currently serving, and all who will fight and serve in the future. We honor you and will never forget the sacrifice you make.

Jaxon's 18 month 14 Days Dr. Appointment

Jaxon went to his appointment this morning and we are glad to say he is actually now growing. He put on a few pounds since September and we are really proud of him. Jaxon now weighs 24.8 pounds which is the 33%, and is 32.0 inches tall which is the 37%. Wow he is growing and finally all the force feeding and high calorie intake is paying off. Still we were told to feed him more and get him a little closer to at least 50%. We love Dr. Pratte he is an amazing doctor. Abby and Jaxon really love him, and think he is one of the greatest doctors ever. Jaxon is into everything. His favorite thing to do is play in the toilet. Our door handles are not made for childproofing so we have had to lock all the bathrooms now to keep him out. He loves playing with his trucks and cars. Likes to read books about animals especially lions and tigers. Climbs all over everything. Runs up and down the stairs. Plays with Abby and the dollhouse, and his favorite show is Handy Manny. He loves to have bubbles in the bath, and play in the dirt. Can't wait till summer, I have a feeling I am going to have a very busy washer and dryer.

Abby is getting older and older too. She told me today that she makes the rules, and when she wants something the servant (daddy) needs to get it for her immediately. Abby folds and puts away all the laundry as one of her chores, and this will be the first year she will get a monthly allowance if she does her chores. She wants to save up for a Disneyland trip full of all the princesses a little girl can imagine. Dresses, jewelry, photos, and fun. We will see how well this works. I look forward to her going to camp over the summer and also for her starting school in the fall. She is beyond ready for school. We are doing a reading program for over the summer and she is also doing the challenge of mom and her reading a book a month. She will then do a book report on it with mom, and we will be able to share this with all of you.

Jaxon is doing the reading a book a month too so many of you will find those books very entertaining too. We look forward to all the changes and goals for the new year. Also both kids will be taking swimming lessons too. Fun for all of us. Wish us luck on our new adventures.

♥ There comes a time in life, when you walk away from all the drama and people who create it. You surround yourself with people who make you laugh, forget the bad, and focus on the good. So, love the people who treat you right. Forget about the ones who don't. Life is too short to be anything but happy.

I think I will be adding one additional goal this year. I am tired of people who disrespect you, belittle you behind your back, say they are family and act the exact opposite, and say unkind things. Why can people be so mean? Wouldn't it be nice if we all could just get along. If only the world could see people for who they are, what they believe in, and what they do. Not their financial status, how big their house and cars are, and who they are friends with.

Please if you find that you do this, consider how the people on the other side feel. They are human beings trying to do their best. Trying to teach love and acceptance. It doesn't matter what worldly status they fit in, because if that is all you have; then you really don't have much of anything. I have been teaching my kids to be accepting of everyone. If someone treats you unkind, hurts you, or is mean just put distance between that person and you. Don't let them bring you down, and make you feel like a lesser person. I know I am not all that inspiring, but if you can just think about it and help yourself become a little bit better than I have succeeded.

The first book of the year that I chose to read was "To the Rescue the Biography of Thomas Spencer Monson." I have finished this book now, and have found it to be an amazing reflection on his life. I don't know if it is bad to say that you have a favorite Prophet of the church, but President Thomas Spencer Monson has been a favorite of mine for a very long time. He is a true inspiration to all who meet him. He is truly a man of God who isn't afraid of anyone or anything. This is probably the most inspirational book that I have read in my lifetime and I would encourage all of you to read it. To reread it, and to share it with others. I went through this book as if I was studying it for school. Highlighted the things that really meant something to me, and have decided to live more like he has. President Monson has given so much to the members of the church. He has inspired many to come back to the LDS faith, he has taught many who have been baptized into the church, and now as the living called of God Prophet he stands and blesses us all. Please if there is only one book you pick up and read this year, let it be this book. I promise you will feel like a better person when you are done, and you will be able to see a greatness in everyone.



Here is a poem that President Monson's dad wrote about him as an infant. "Dear Baby Monson with your wee pink toes, And your wee little mouth Like the bud of a rose; May this new world to your wondering mind, Unfold its treasures good and kind. Intelligence, wisdom, happiness, too, Are the riches that I wish for you."

Quotes from the book, "To the Rescue: The Biography of Thomas S. Monson."


"When God speaks and a man obeys, that man will always be right."

"Whom the Lord calls, the Lord qualifies."

"Decisions determine destiny."

"When you are on the Lord's errand, you are entitled to the Lord's help."

"Your decision to think right, choose right, and do right will rarely if ever be the easiest course to follow."

"You do not find the happy life-you make it."

"The power to lead is the power to mislead, and the power to mislead is the power to destroy."

"Good habits....are the soul's muscles; the more you use them, the stronger they grow."

"Life is like a candid camera; it does not wait for you to pose."

"The door of history turns on small hinges, and so do people's lives."

"As we look heavenward, we inevitably learn of our responsibility to reach outward."

Colon cancer is 90 percent preventable. Yet Americans are dying at alarming rates from undetected or late-stage colon cancer because not enough people are getting screened. Colon cancer is the nation’s second deadliest form of cancer, with nearly 50,000 U.S. deaths in 2009. The risk of a person having colorectal cancer in their lifetime is about 1 in 19.

Colon cancer indiscriminately affects people regardless of race, sex, economic status or family history. There are often no symptoms and almost 75 percent of cases have no prior family history. If you think that you are cancer-free because no one in your family has had it, or because you have no symptoms, you are putting your life at risk.
Men

Colon cancer is the third most common cancer in men, behind lung and prostate cancers, yet it’s the second leading cancer cause of death in men. Just as men should consult their doctor about heart health, they should make colonoscopies part of their health check-ups as recommended.
Women

Colon cancer takes the lives of nearly as many women as ovarian, cervical and uterine cancers combined. Women should make colonoscopies as much a part of their health care as a PAP test or mammogram to reduce their risk of colon cancer. This may mean every 3 to 10 years depending on medical history.

Welcome 2011. Our family has made several goals for the New Year and are excited about the new adventures we may face. Our goals are:

1) To try and make a difference in the world whether through volunteer work or other options we encounter.

2) To lose weight and become a healthier family.

3) To go back to school and better our education.

4) To read a book a month to better our knowledge and understanding.

5) To go on our first family vacation.


Jaxon is not included on the weight loss part, because we are hoping that he stays healthy and gains more weight this year. It has been fun to be together over the last week and not have to go anywhere. We have done loads of puzzles which is now Abby's favorite thing other than Art projects. We have played in the ice and snow. We have shoveled and shoveled to get the ice off the driveway. We have watched a few movies and played with our new toys. Abby loves the dollhouse just as much as Jaxon loves hiding her dolls and throwing her furniture around. Boy he learned early about teasing and picking on your sisters. He loves to crash his trucks into everything. Mom has spent the time throwing old things away and organizing the house. It is amazing what you may find in boxes from when you were a child. Dad will be going back to work and the days will be filled with business and the fun things we all encounter as parents. We hope that all of you have set your sights and goals high for the New Year. We wish you all good health, happiness, and adventure.