I LOVE NYC

I know, I can't believe I'm actually writing again myself. After a very long SIX MONTH break, I am back at the blogging. Yippeeeeee!!!!!!

We just had the best time in NYC!! Dave and I along with Steve, Colin and Heather were able to go to NYC recently. We had the best time taking the subway everywhere, going to the top of the Empire State Building, Times Square, The Body Exhibit, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge and spending a day with my college roommate, Ginny Charles Bodner, and her adorable family.
I think this was our most favorite family trip to date!

Juju and the crown

My niece Julie was married to Chris Phillips on May 16, 2009.  It was a beautiful event and they seem very happy  and well matched.
I started thinking about Julie or "Baby Julie" as we always called her (Dave called her this til she was like 15). I feel so privileged to have been a close aunt to her. I remember many things about Julie's childhood but on the day, her wedding day, a particular memory came to mind.  When Julie was about 6 year s old, she competed  in the "Little Miss Santa Clara" pageant. Julie was a good little dancer and lit up on stage.  Julie's dance teacher encouraged my sister, Shelly, to put Julie in the competition.
On the day of the competition, Shelly was fixing Julie's hair and talking to her about her upcoming performance. Shelly, wanted to "soften the blow" so to speak, by telling Julie not to be upset if she didn't win because there were lots of girls in the pageant that had been competing for years.  Julie took it all in, then she said, "I've just gotta get that crown!"
I did not realize then what a great life lesson Julie was teaching us.  As I attended the sealing of Julie and Chris, in the Fresno temple, this scene came to my mind. Julie was well on her way to "getting that crown."  As she continues her life on the righteous path that she is now on, Julie can be a queen to her husband, her children and in the righteous home she builds here on earth.  If she continues on this same righteous path, she will be crowned with glory in the kingdom of our Heavenly Father.

Life, unlike the pageant, is not a competition, every one of us is offered "the crown" if we will follow our Heavenly Father, live righteously and uphold the covenants we make in the temple.  Everyone who does their absolute best will win the crown.

So, Baby Julie, as you begin your new life as a wife and someday as a mother to elect spirits of our Heavenly Father,   I hope the wisdom of that five year old Julie comes to your mind and you will reclaim your childhood goal. As you profoundly said many years ago, "I've just gotta get that crown." This is the greatest goal of all.

Spring Break!!

I LOVE spring break (or any other type of break for that matter). I do remember back when my kids were little, not yet old enough to babysit, that I would sometimes dread the time off but not anymore and not for a long time now. I totally love kicking back with my kids. Sleeping in late, watching TV, eating too much, going to the movies etc. I guess I'm really just a lazy bum at heart. Oh well, these are always the best bonding times with my kids.

I was talking to my friend Shannon today and we figured out that we only have four more "spring breaks" left until we are both empty nesters. Wow! How did that happen? It makes me sad to see this part of my life coming to an end. I guess I thought I would have kids at home forever.

One thing I have learned is that life moves on and that is what forces us to grow. I am going to miss "breaks" with my kids but until they are all out of the house I am going to continue to love the time we have together. Life is amazing. I love being a wife and mother and I am so thankful that I have a hard working husband who allows me to spend time with our babies. I really do have a terrific life.

"What? Me, a Counselor?"

A few years ago my friend Haley and I decided to run the 5K Race For the Cure. I really worked hard to be able to run the whole thing. I say "I" because Haley was already able to run that far but she ran with me almost every morning for a few months until I could do it too. It ended up being an amazing experience. It's so great to have friends who encourage you to do things you never thought you could.

The other day, my friend Shelley called me. She's involved with the "A New You" program with Barbara Barrington Jones. It's sort of like an EFY for women. You get to spend a week in dorm rooms with other women and go to amazing classes on fashion, style etc. plus hear a lot of great inspirational speakers. The best part is that you have no laundry, dishes or meal prep the whole week (love it!).

I attended the program four summers ago in Hawaii at the BYU Hawaii campus. I went with my friend Cindy. We had the greatest time ever! Now the program is being held in Utah (aloha Hawaii). I loved the time I had to think about life and my goals and think of all that is ahead of me. It was a real boost.

So anyway, my friend, Shelley, asked me if I would be a counselor this summer. "What, me a counselor?" I don't know, I never really think of myself that way. I mean, I really loved the program but I wasn't 100% on board with the nightly "goofy song singing" time. You see, "singing" time reminds me of girl's camp and I am a girl's camp hater (it's true, I admit it). That whole "gratuitous goofy behavior thing" has always turned me off. Now don't get me wrong, I can goof off with the best of them it's just that I have never been comfortable goofing off when you're expected to (hey, that takes all the fun out of it, right?).

I did love going to "A New You" so I agreed. I guess I'll have to practice doing "goofy song time" so I can be a good counselor (won't my family love that).

I am looking forward to August. I know that whenever I step out of my comfort zone I grow in ways that are amazing to me. So here goes!!

Oh yeah, Shelley told me that I need to send her a picture along with my "bio." My What??? This should be FUN!!

"Good To The Last Drop" A Farewell to Postum (reprised from 1/08)

Doesn't everyone has a favorite childhood taste memory? You know what I mean. That special something you just have to have when life knocks you down and sucker punches you in the gut. When you need some mothering but you ARE the mother. That one palatable, culinary mouthful of magic that will bring you back to your favorite childhood blankey, visits with a doting grandmother or afternoon tea parties on your back porch.

Just this very morning I was reminded of one of those very childhood taste memories. After suffering for days with the what was probably the flu, I awakened long before dawn. Coughing, congested and achy I just couldn't get comfortable. After tossing around for an hour or so, I came to the conclusion that I'd better get up or my poor husband would also have to suffer the consequence of my restless night's sleep.

I enjoy a little time to myself just like the next mom but 3 AM is not my idea of "Me Time!" Weighing my options at this early hour between infomercials, old movies and sitting in the dark, I decided to make yet another, cup of herbal tea.

Although I do enjoy the occasional "spot o tea," I had quickly become bored with the watery, lack luster stuff after consuming what now seems to be gallons in the past few days.

I started down the stairway and into the kitchen, set the tea pot on the burner, opened my cupboard and proceeded to search for the perfect "Celestial Seasoning." Chamomile, Mint Magic, Tropic of Strawberry, Country Peach Passion, nothing seemed to "Zing" out at me. Sleepy time, Orange Spice, Black Cherry Berry, Hot Cocoa, Hot Cider, no, there must be something more. As I moved box after box I realized that my choices were quickly running out. Just as I was ready to resolve myself to a cup of sleepy time, a familiar sight caught my eye.

Way back in the far corner of my cabinet, a place rarely ventured, was A small glass jar, white lid, blue with white lettering. I rubbed my eyes to make sure I wasn't dreaming. Could it be? Straining my arm I reached far into the corner and grasped the jar. As I pulled it toward me I realized that, yes, it was what I thought it was.

Postum, an unbelievable find! You may not know this, but Postum is no longer in production so running to the store to purchase a fresh new jar is just NOT an option. Excitedly, I twisted the cap to reveal it's contents. To my disappointment a mere tablespoon of the brown, rich smelling granules were left.

Disregarding the expiration date, which was probably around 1997, I scraped the bottom of the jar to free the granules of petrified powder, then dumped every last granule into my favorite mug. I mixed in a little sugar, being careful not to over sweeten. I noticed that, as a bonus, next to the postum jar was a small container of that fake, dried creamer stuff. (I'm sure my mom would say it causes cancer but I just couldn't help myself, it definitely completes the whole Postum experience). I put a heaping scoop of creamer in my cup without checking the expiration date on that either! The teapot began to whistle, echoing my feelings of glee.

Grasping the teapot with a hot pad I slowly poured the steaming water into my mug and began to stir. The water turned to a caramel brown color. A small amount of foam formed on top and the familiar aroma of the enticing elixir wafted through the kitchen.

I took a sip, instantly, my mind went back to weekends with Grandma Tena, tea paries and cold rainy days wrapped in a blanket.

I snuggled on the couch enjoying my hot steamy mug of childhood comfort. I sipped slowly hoping to make this bit of childhood last but, just like that red valentine heart box of See's candies you thought you would never be able to finish, soon the mug was empty.

Emotions welled inside me as I realized my childhood memories would never again be awakened by the comforting scent and bitter, nutty taste of Postum. As I placed the empty mug in the sink I thought to myself, now that really was "Good to the Last Drop."

Valntine's Day, How "Cheesy" Can We Get?

Valentine's Day? How cheesy can we get. Who needs a holiday to tell your "schmoopy" that you love them. Don't we do this every day in every thing we do. Working, cleaning, laundry, kid care, yardwork, fix it projects, dusting, taking out the garbage, etc.? Isn't Valentine's Day just another way for retailers to add to their bottomline?

Many married couples forego the Valentine ritual because they think it is just for people who are dating or it's a waste of money or too "cheesy." I have a different take on Valentine's Day and if you are one of those who doesn't celebrate Valentine's Day, you, my friend, are missing out and I will tell you why.

Dave and I have been Valentines for 29 years (yep that's right, since I was 15). About 7 or 8 years into our marriage, anticipating Valentine's Day, Dave asked, "do we still celebrate Valentine's Day?" I replied, "are we still in love?" He has never asked again.

I do agree that Valentine's Day is a little cheesy, but I still feel like a school girl when my hubby comes through the door with flowers, a little gift and one of those "super cheesy" Valentine's cards just for me. What a great opportunity to let your "honey bunny" know just how special they are. Who doesn't love a man (or woman for that matter) who can get a little "cheesy" and sentimental? (I know I do)

When I was a kid, my family had the tradition of leaving Valentine's gifts on the front step. The person leaving the gift would ring the doorbell, run and hide and wait to be found. The recipient of the gift was obligated to find the gift giver before he could touch the gift.

My dad was "the master" at this game. It would take us forever to find him. I think his greatest hiding spot ever was when he ran all the way around the house then, making sure we were all outside looking for him, snuck in the back door. It took us a little while to find him but when we did, there he was sitting on the couch reading the newspaper. I thought he was so cool.

I must say, I have an advantage on most because, I was raised by some "super cheesy" parents who always did sweet things for each other on Valentines Day. Not only did they give each other gifts but all seven of their children would get a valentine too. My mom would bake a blueberry pie for her "honey" and dad would always fill a big red heart with See's candies for his "honey."

Dad has been filling that same red heart for 30+ years. Just this past week went to visit my dad in the hospital. Mom was there and I heard dad ask her if she would go to See's and buy a pound and a half of chocolates so that he could fill her "heart" for Valentine's Day. Here he was in the hospital with heart problems and trying to solve another "heart problem." You don't get to celebrate 50 years of marriage, like my parents did, by avoiding "cheesy" holidays.

So next year when you walk into Target and see the Valentine's decorations hanging from the ceiling, I hope you won't think that Valentine's Day is just another retail holiday. I hope you will think of Valentine's Day as gift, a chance to let your hubby or wifey know just what it is that you love most about them. It doesn't have to be expensive, a homemade card or maybe a romantic dinner for two at home. Even if it's just spaghetti and meatballs. Taking that extra time and sharing gifts of love makes all the difference. Oh yeah, extra "cheese" please.

25 Random Things About Amy K (as posted on my FB page)

1. I go out of my way to drive through BIG puddles when it's raining. Love it!

2. I have been known to jump in puddles (even as an adult).

3. I love to bake cookies, cakes, etc. (and eat them).

4. I always thought I was a little rebel because I drank Coca Cola on the sly (sinful).

5. I had lots of naughty adventures with my best chidlhood girlfriend, Brenda, and used to tell my kids stories about it when they were little. They loved the "Brenda Stories." Hey Brenda, do you remember the empty peanut butter jar, the kid next door and the dog poop? Me too.

6. I ate lunch with Steve Young when we were both at BYU.

7. I drove a stolen car for 2 weeks (didn't know it was stolen).

8. I love to have the occasional "all day movie marathon."

9. I hate to diet and therefore, usually, eat whatever I want. (I pay for this)

10. I rarely read the book for book club and half way joke that I am going to start a "magazine club."

11. I used to dance with my little sister Karen in our bedroom like "solid gold dancers." (Yes, Kim, I do remember them well). One time my future sister in law stayed over and we tried to get her to dance with us too. I think she thought we were a little strange (whateve).

12. I think my kids are the most fun and interesting people to hang out with (and gorgeous).

13. I love animals and would have a bunch if my husband would let me.

14. I love babies and wish that I had more of my own.

15. I think I can do almost anything which sometimes gets me into trouble when I try home "salon treatments." Which is why I tell people, "whatever you do, do not try to wax your own underarms." (That didn't turn out well!!!!!!)

16. I used to highlight all of my friends and their teenage daughters hair and would tell them before I began that "I am not a professional. Your results are not guaranteed. You can not hate me if I ruin your hair." (I'm glad I said that last part because I really "jacked up" a few of my friends)

17. I loved to play "space monkeys" with my brother Scott when we were little. He was my best friend. I miss that. (Cocoa and ChiChi)

18. When I was a child, I loved to climb trees and hated to wear dresses.

19. I always loved to hold babies and would play with any baby I could get my hands on. My friend, Brenda, grew up in a family of 9 and it seemed they always had a baby around the house that I could play with. One time, when I was 5, Brenda and I were playing with her baby sister, Louise, in Brenda's bedroom and we dropped her between the wooden bedframe and the nightstand. She started to cry and we quickly tried to comfort her so that Brenda's mom wouldnt hear her and take her away. (What the heck? Who lets a 5 year old and 6 year old play with a newborn in their bedroom?)

20. My greatest memory of my dad was when he took me to bury my favorite cat, Misty. That is when he became my hero!

21. My brother Keith and I have always teased each other relentlessly. One time my sister, Karen and I joined weight watchers. Keith asked us how much we had to pay each week to be members. We told him 13 dollars. He said, "just come to my house and pay me $13 every week and I can do the same thing they do." "Get on the scale, yep, still fat."
People who don't know us probably think I am really mean because I make jokes about Keith recently becoming blind. (chihuahua, they gave me a stinkin' chihuahua!)

22. I am impulsive. When I was in high school, I gave Jim Francis a wedgie when we were at Aloha roller rink. Unfortunately, I have never been able to live it down. When I met Jim's wife, Terri, in 2003. She said, "Oh, Amy, you're the one that gave Jim a wedgie at the roller rink." ( I wish they knew me as an adult because I am really nice now and tend to think through my impulses a little better) (Truthfully, I'm still a bit impulsive which still gets me into trouble).

23. I am the world's WORST dieter!! Once, Karen and I were at a weight watcher's meeting and someone said something about wanting their pre BABY weight BACK. I just started humming the Chili's ad song, "I want my baby back, baby back, baby back." Right after the meeting, Karen and I went to Chili's for Baby Back Ribs! Terrible!!!

24. I think my husband is amazing!!! He is not afraid to try anything and encourages me to step out of my comfort zone a lot. He is the best traveller because he loves to try new things. I love this about him.

25. I am committed to my religious beliefs. I have a deep love for my Heavenly Father and really do try to be good (even if I can be a little devil sometimes).

Thank You Sister Lawrence

I just have to say, "I LOVE my Wednesday scripture class!" It is the absolute highlight of my week.

Every Wednesday, Sister Lawrence hosts a scripture class in her home. She is such a great resource for Gospel topics and speaks to my soul. The amazing thing to me is that she seems to teach to every level (I have been in institute classes before where I've felt like I signed up for a Spanish class and everyone is from Mexico except me). I never feel dumb or (too) lost when the topic is new to me (which is usually the case).

She teaches in a way that I get something out of every class. I always leave wanting to be better and do better in all the important areas of my life. What a great gift.

Several times now as I am driving out of her neighborhood, I will begin to reach for the radio then, instead of turning it on, I start to pray (I hope THAT'S not against the law). I love it when I am alone in my car and can pour out my heart to the Lord. I always thank the Lord for Sister Lawrence and her willingness to serve and share her knowledge of the Gospel and I recommit myself to living the Gospel more fully.

Even though it will never be enough, let me say, "thank you Sister Lawrence." "You are such an inspiration to me and many others. You may never know (in this life) what a huge impact you are having on so many lives."

Love you, Amy

Will My Kids Think They Weren't Loved?

Dear Kinross Kids,
I was wanting to post some Christmas pictures to my blog so I went to my picture file and opened my pictures only to realize there weren't many to choose from. It is then that I realized, "I am the WORST about taking pictures!!" This problem did not just happen either, I have been a terrible picture taker my whole mothering life.

It is good that I have realized my picture taking problem, since recognition is the first step to change. (yippee!)

In order to "heal" I needed to figure out "why" I have a "picture taking aversion" and after much soul searching I feel I have come up with the top three reason why I am "shutter box challenged."

1. My mom never took pictures.
That's right, the mother is always to blame. I'm sure my kids will have plenty of things to blame on me. Harsh but true, my mom never took pictures. Therefor,I never learned to take pictures when I was growing up. (I did, however, learn to cook. Hopefully this will make up for my lack of "clicking" the shutter).

2. I was always too fat.
Sad but true, this has been an excuse that has come to haunt me over the years. The trouble with this one is 15 years ago when I was too fat, I looked pretty good! I blew it!

3. I like to enjoy the day and NOT just take the pictures.
This is one excuse that I am actually proud of. I really DO enjoy the day. I love cooking for my family, playing games or enjoying whatever activity we are doing. (What can I say, some moms "click", I cook)(not bad).

I hope you don't think that you weren't loved. I hope you have some amazing memories of growing up in my home. I'm sure you know that, in my home, love is not measured by a clicking shutter, but by the wonderful smells coming from the kitchen(twisted, but true).

So, when you bring your kids to my house and want to take a trip down memory lane, don't expect a huge library of meticulously scrapbooked pages documenting your amazing childhood. I hold those memories in my heart where I can cherish them everyday. They are ready to come out and be shared whenever we sit down to a good meal, stroll on the beach, camp or play at a lake. We can play "remember when" for hours and hours and we can laugh and cry together. Just like I do with my brothers and sisters.

Love you kiddos, Mom