Start the Countdown

It is exactly two weeks away from Thanksgiving. It is also about two weeks since we have had 70 degree weather, sunshine and warmth. Somehow, my good mood seemed to have disappeared with the heat.

I have seen, in countless magazines, articles dedicated to giving thanks, living a life of gratitude and serving with a smile.

In an attempt to lift my spirits and to appreciate the abundant blessings in my life, I will be counting down the many things I am thankful for each day until Thanksgiving.

First and foremost, I am thankful for the gospel.

I am thankful I have been blessed to have guidance and council that better helps me live my life each day.

It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name. - Psalm 92:1

How magnificently we are blessed! How thankful we ought to be! Cultivate the spirit of thanksgiving in your lives. Make it of the very nature of your lives. It will impart an added dimension to your character that will give depth and strength. . . Let a spirit of thanksgiving guide and bless your days and nights. - President Gordon B. Hinckley

It is to that end, that I hope to change my mood, and live a more grateful life. Here's to the countdown to Thanksgiving!

Shocking

Or not so . . . sadly. Saw this on some friend's blogs and loved it. Fun, and let's be honest, what's not to love about the 80's? I look pretty amazing with crimped hair.

You Belong in 1989

Wild, over the top, and just a little bit cheesy. You're colorful at night - and successful during the day.

What Year Do You Belong In?

X-ray vision

I Voted

I voted today. Did you?

I hauled 60+ lbs. of two-tear-old boys down to my voting center . . . in the rain . . . and snow . . . and wind . . . and cold.

They were very good once the candy and stickers were handed out.

I was very meticulous afterall because there were requests to use the potty one minute after I began.

Regardless, there is something to be said of voting and taking ownership in this country in which I live.

Happy Halloween!

Halloween has come and gone. So has most of Owen's candy. He went to four houses total. He was noted by a passerby as being "very quick" as he was running from his momma. Quick to run away, but not quick to get candy. We visited all of the in-laws and a friend. That's it.

Finally, he could wear his costume with a purpose (other than swimming or playing in the dirt).

And of course, Joey dressed up. He spend a decent amount of time perfecting the skeleton look. More importantly, he didn't make anyone cry this year (I don't think).

Oh, have a mentioned Owen likes Reese's Peanut Butter cups? Case in point:

Hiking Buddy

No one in their right mind would publish a photo of themself like this. In my defense, we had just climbed Mt. Olympus, quickly I might add, early in the morning, and I am tired.

Trell, far left, is what I would consider, one of the best hiking buddies in the world. He is articulate (necessary for long hours climbing), filled with life experiences, bright, determined, and encouraging.

Several years ago, he started doing "a peek-a-week" during the summer. We traveled throughout the Wasatch range, doing various "peeks" each weekend. The first, was Mt. Olympus. He and I found our way to the front of the pack, set a rather fast pace, and encouraged each other on. We climbed hard and fast.

Somehow, throughout the various hikes, I found my pace next to his and felt I gained a hiking companion, but more importantly a friend. There is something to be said about the respect you gain for someone when you are doing something difficult.

Trell is sharp, hard-working, and generous with his praise. I am grateful to count him as a friend and family member. Happy Birthday.

Jenny

Jenny is witty, strong, patient, and generous.

She is a fighter.

She is gracious.

She has a heart of gold.

If you are in need, she willingly gives. I don't mean something that you would find at the DI, but rather the best of the best.

She is a great example to the Wilson household. We love you Jenny! Happy 40-something. It looks good on you.

* Here's Jenny with her beautiful family on the lake she is named after. Something about the Wilson's and the Tetons . . . Mt. Owen is far behind her.