My bad!...not really

Sheesh! I cannot believe how long it has been since I truly took the time to write on my blog...I miss it! Truth is, having an infant (with acid reflux being treated) all over again is super time-consuming (both kids are watching Baby Einstein as we "speak") and I have been making tons of tiny little girl stuff while crocheting and using fabrics.

Here's a quick low-down of what I've been up to and hope you can get into it too!

I just recently discovered the Crafty Chica blog and I'm lovin' all the latina-inspired, and culture rich materials and projects.  Don't take my word for it, check it out! It's like nothing out there!

Now, I've also noticed that while I love DIYing and crocheting and creating and etc...Pinterest has totally eased up the inspiration (about 60% of the time) while searching.  Mind you, it IS addictive, but as long as you do all your house chores and bathe/dress your kids in the morning then you're set for the day to be a mom and a Pin freak at the same time ;-).  For those of you who aren't into Pinterest yet, I think of it like cutting out catalog/magazine stuff you love and compiling it all in one place divided into your own categories to reference later or do at the moment.  It's easy and you can download an app for your phone (I have android) so you can use it anywhere at any time!  You can follow what I pin by searching meo86 in "search" under "people" setting since I'm going to start pinning up everything I've blogged about too. Here's a peek at things I post about, most with tutorials included:

Yeah, I pretty much want to marry Pinterest...almost. Though I've been happily married 4 years now (this past October 1st! whoo hoooo!) and it was quite a memorable one. Celebration at home doesn't stopped (not like that!) and hopefully we can fully enjoy it this weekend!

Ok, gotta go since the Einstein video is finished and I need to start "school time" with my kid before snacktime, then playtime and naptime (while diaper changing and breastfeeding in between ♥).

Much love, muchachas!

Taking it slow

This past half year has certainly been a very eventful part of our little family's life.  Let me list some highlights in the past months that we experienced:

January...We find out I'm pregnant...surprise! 17 weeks already with an IUD.
February..."It's a girl!" and my husband gets a call from California for a new job.
March...We leave Utah and I leave behind a wonderful group of Young Women (that I still pray for every night :'-/ ), but I had complete faith in our new journey in California.
April...Hubby's Birthday and we move out yet again into a new apartment. Got anemia again and IUD causes delicate pregnancy. New calling again in Young Women's organization.
May...Most painful month, couldn't even sit. Put on bed rest until I deliver. IUD falls out at end of month, which Doc totally reprimands me for because I removed it myself (totally dangerous, but I felt it almost out, so I went for it. I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS, very PAINFUL and RISKY!).
June...1 month left til delivery! Most challenging month as I struggle to keep energized and start really bad contractions. Doc tells me she'd like to induce delivery after 35 weeks due to size and circumstances.

Well, we have had our ups and challenges, but it's been quite memorable and full of joyful news because we're expanding our family.  I've decided to let our little girl decide when she's ready to come to this world and not induce like recommended.  I've also decided to get a midwife this time for delivery and I'll be attempting to go as far as possible without any pain medication.  I want to try natural delivery and have been learning relaxation techniques of all sorts in the meantime.  Although delivering naturally is somewhat scary, I know it's possible and hope to have the strength when the time comes.

So, because of everything still going on and me needing more rest, I won't be able to blog as much as I wish I could.  I wish I could share so much more and do more, but as a mom I gotta learn to prioritize and manage my time appropriately.  I will sorely miss blogging while my boy naps and creating posts that helped inspire me to be better too.  I won't be gone for too long though.

Hasta luego!

Marriage Takes Practice

My marriage is not perfect, it is a work in progress, an elaborate masterpiece in the making. A successful family only comes from the fountains of a successful marriage. So, because I am seeking to better something of great importance to me, I will share what I have found with you.

When we want to be successful at something in life, we usually don't attempt to "see how it goes." That's why those who want to play the piano take lessons. No one can sit down at a piano for the first time and play Mozart or Beethoven. Sure, most anyone can peck on the keys long enough to figure out "Chop Sticks" or "Mary Had a Little Lamb," but that's not musical success.

An instructor will teach what keys produce certain musical notes, what techniques to use to access those keys and how to determine musical notes from written symbols in order to play pieces of music.

Once we've received basic education and training, it is up to us to practice and develop what we we've learned. After years of practicing, one can become adequate at making music with a piano. Clearly, masterpieces cannot be musically interpreted into success by a beginner.

Yet we often assume that success in marriage will come without any instruction or practice. Many times, we rely on some mysterious shared chemistry or compatibility and then when things don't run smoothly, we assume that individual differences are to blame. In the sad cases, divorce lawyers entitle them, "irreconcilable differences."

Usually those struggling in marriage don't question their techniques or decide they are going to start practicing with a resource or a professional. Unmarried couples usually don't seek to learn correct fundamentals and techniques to practice in their future marriage. Because of this, many people are setting themselves up for failure.  According to studies 50% of all marriages end in divorce. Here are the current details and distributions, just look below:

Age at marriage for those who divorce in America

Age	Women	Men
Under 20 years old	27.6%	11.7%
20 to 24 years old	36.6%	38.8%
25 to 29 years old	16.4%	22.3%
30 to 34 years old	8.5%	11.6%
35 to 39 years old	5.1%	6.5%

The divorce rate in America for first marriage, vs second or third marriage
50% percent of first marriages, 67% of second and 74% of third marriages end indivorce, according to Jennifer Baker of the Forest Institute of Professional Psychology in Springfield, Missouri. - from http://www.divorcerate.org/

Marriage is hard work, but it is well worth it. If your marriage is in crisis, I suggest you seek professional help, to really put forth an effort and get a professional, unbiased view that will help pin-point the real issue(s). If your marriage is not in crisis but you fear it could fall into crisis, I've found the following three points could offer some help in keeping your marriage from reaching a point distress. I am no professional and I'm included in working on always bettering my own marriage.  If your marriage is strong, the following could help you keep it that way.

Things to remember and practice:

1. Marriage is a team sport.  Most friends or relatives of married people often hear only one side of the story. The side they hear is usually one spouse blaming the other for all the problems within their marriage. "If only he'd _________." "If she wouldn't ________." It is never completely one-sided. Sure, one spouse might share more of the guilt in hurting a marriage, like in cases of infidelity or addictions, but it is nearly impossible for one spouse to deserve all the blame. Accept responsibility. Don't expect your spouse to do all the work in your relationship. Each marriage partner has enough to work on personally without attempting to change or manipulate his or her spouse. Be a team player in your marriage and your spouse will likely do the same. To see a big change, you must be part of it.

2. Become your spouse's dream (it's deeper than physical). When you were young, it's likely you had ideas and dreams of your relationship with your future spouse. Your spouse did as well.

Perhaps one of the greatest mistakes people make in marriage relationships is to stop the courtship process. You remember that time in your life don't you? When you were polite, kind, supportive, selfless, thoughtful, attentive, forthcoming and sensitive to your spouse? You made yourself into that dream. You learned what bothered, scared or hurt and you avoided those things. You found out what was important to him/her and you made it important to you even if it wasn't before. Do it again! People don't give up on the spouse of their dreams. You'll likely find that your spouse will do the same for you.

3. Tell other people good things about your spouse. In front of him or even when he's not there (the same goes for husbands about wives). If you focus on the positives in your spouse, you will find that he/she not only does more of those positive things but also adds new positives to the list. Thank him for cutting the grass or taking out the trash. Thank her for a delicious meal and tell others that she's a great cook. Be sure to compliment him on his strong arms or intelligence in front of your friends. Tell her how beautiful you think she is. Tell him he's handsome. Not only will your spouse appreciate the compliment, but you'll find it easier to treat your spouse as you should because you will be programming yourself to respect and appreciate him or her...remember that it's about practice, just like playing the piano.

Marriage takes practice and work, but the rewards are for a lifetime. Remember that great marriages don't happen over night just as troubled marriages usually don't become disturbed in a few days. Start on the path to being a team player in your marriage and don't look back.

DIY Natural Eye Makeup Remover

So I pretty much do this when I have the little bit of extra time early morning to play up my eyes.  These days usually include weekends and date night (Fridays), so before I go to bed, I will take this little potion and lean up my eyes.  The best part is that it doesn't clog your pores nor have negative long term effects...in fact it's very beneficial for you skin round the eyes in the long run (wrinkles...*wink, wink) ;-)

WHAT YOU NEED:
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)
Cotton balls



WHAT TO DO:
1.  Take some EVOO and add it onto your cotton ball that you will be using, keep an extra nearby just in case.  I used an empty spice jar from my spice rack in the kitchen in the meantime.  Remember that EVOO is delicate, so you never want to store too much, expose it to too much air, nor direct light.  It DOES effect it's potency (it will turn to plain old oil, which I'm not sure is good for your skin).

2.  Gently take the skin around your skin and start to wipe.  Whatever mascara and shadows you have on will come off, even the tough waterproof kind.

haha, you can see my puffy fingers here ( I'm 30 wks preggers)

Eyeliner and mascara, be gone!

Easy peasy, lemon squeesy!

3.  That's it! You're done.  Now, I usually let my skin soak up the EVOO for the rest of the night as an eye potion.  You can also follow up with your nighttime routine, but as you can see, I wash my face beforehand and end with this :-) ...all CLEAN!

not REAL! So get REAL!

America Ferrera is such a natural beauty and is seen by millions on a regular basis.  Some of us are blssed to have a fuller body like hers, but then it's also true to see how girls/women let themselves be so mentally judged by social beliefs...So, without further delay:  The lies Photo Editing can "help" tell and problems it creates...

Can YOU tell?

(Photo from PETAPIXEL)

Actually, it makes me feel a bit sick to my stomach to even look at this image.  This was an ad for Ralph Lauren that took quite a bit of heat back in 2009.  I want to show you this image to educate you girls on the power of Photoshop.  This image goes to show you, you can take a seemingly normal body and use a tool called “liquify” that can potentially make your waist look smaller than you head!  Yes, check out the photo…and please say it ain’t so!  Honestly, the poor girl is so warped she doesn’t even look human anymore!  I think the thing about this ad that personally disturbs me the most is, I wonder how many desks this print went across and how many people signed off on it before it went to print…and not one person took a step back and said, “Wait a minute, this just doesn’t look right.”  Have we become that immune to startling thin women in magazines that this doesn’t raise an eyebrow within the advertising industry?

If anyone questions why an estimated 24 MILLION INDIVIDUALS IN OUR COUNTRY SUFFER FROM AN EATING DISORDER, this photo is probably a good indication why.  Girls, in particular, are trying to keep up with a body type that is physically IMPOSSIBLE!  Girls, none of us can compete with a Photoshop warping tool!  Take that in for a moment…you can’t compete with the impossible, so let go of that pressure to compete with what only a computer software can create.  The liquify tool reminds me of those warping mirrors that you sit in front of as a kid where your head becomes shaped like an hourglass alien?!??!  You know what I’m talking about!  The tool takes the normal and turns it into the impossible.

Below are some very interesting and startling facts about eating disorders that I found from the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF ANOREXIA NERVOSA AND ASSOCIATED DISORDERS while trying to pull the most recent data.

*Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness*Anorexia is the third most common chronic illness among adolescents*47% of girls in 5th-12th grade reported wanting to lose weight because of magazine pictures*69% of girls in 5th-12th grade reported that magazine pictures influenced their idea of a perfect body shape*95% of those who have eating disorders are between the ages of 12 and 25.8*The body type portrayed in advertising as the ideal is possessed naturally by only 5% of American females*81% of 10 year olds are afraid of being fat

Now those facts should be a tough pill to swallow.  If you are one of those 24 million people that are battling an eating disorder, or you aren’t quite sure if it is “technically” a disorder, I encourage you to GET HELP HERE.  You are not alone in this battle and there is no need for you to feel that way.  Your story might just save another girl from this deadly disease.

New life in Cali and some projects!

So, I have been super busy here just having fun and mostly settling in and organizing.  It's funny how weather not only effects people emotionally, but time-wise as well.  As for me, I'm in a happier spirit because having constant good weather is cheery and I have less personal time for gadgets because I'm out and about or spending time with my little boy instead of being trapped indoors for months because of the snow.

Enough about that though. Let me get into some details that a lot of people mistakenly make of where I live now, mostly to educate and share:
1)  Most people think Southern California is nice, but there's "too much violence to raise a family in these parts"...well, I grew up here and I turned out anti-violent and mind you I've never tried drugs, nor stealing, nor was I influenced in any negative way while living here.  Truth is, my home is where I learned to be me and while outside and seeing people's lives, I was able to decide for myself through conviction instead of following the general public.  So no matter WHERE your family is raised, it's HOW YOU raise them that matters and will determine how they will be influenced.
2)  A lot of people think it's super expensive to live out here...it depends a lot on location.  Fact is, renting is not cheap, but becoming a homeowner is cheaper.  Yup, you can buy a nice spacious home for (a bigger family) around $250,000 in a nice neighborhood including a pool now-a-days (and not in the dessert), which I know as a fact due to close relatives currently house-shopping.  Not to mention, utility bills are way cheap...I remember paying almost $190 for just our gas bill one winter month in Utah.  Here, most families think paying $80 for ALL their utilities is too much and can easily control due to climate.  Also, produce is much more fresh and affordable in California.  You can buy up to 7lbs of oranges for .99 cents and food is never taxed so you pay what you see.  For sure car fuel is a killer here, running up to $4.10 a gallon on average right now, but when everything is so close to you in distance, your tank can last a while.  Now, buying merchandise is also at lower cost here depending on where you go.  If you're the type that only buys in department stores or malls, then you're paying too much ANYWHERE.  If you like bargains, then there's a whole world at your disposal.  I'm talking about flee markets, discount factories and outlets, and everything within 3-10 miles from your home.  In Utah I had to wait for a trip down to Salt Lake City (20 miles one-way) to get cute clothing and still crossed my fingers to find a bargain I would love, but since everyone shops in the same places then usually the same style, brand, and shoes are strolling out and about...making YOU fit into a mold.  So most times I skipped the $9.99 blouse on clearance or the $29.99 jeans on sale (total $40 plus tax). I recently bought a 7-piece bed set ($25), a car seat ($10), 13lbs of bananas ($1.50), Covergirl Makeup foundation ($2), a cute maternity top ($1), and still spent the remainder on snacks (same $40 without tax) while shopping here in California.  So, between mortgage and bills, you'll be paying the same as in, let's just say, Utah...since it's the only other place I've lived in and payed bills.  BUT between food, discounts, local stores, and cheaper merchandise, anyone can save in California and anyone who argues this needs to crunch in the real numbers to see reality.
3)  Jobs.  Jobs.  Jobs.  Everywhere you go, people are struggling to find or keep their jobs.  It's a sad stand-point for our nation really, but trials come in every size, we just have to be ready for them.  In Utah, jobs don't pay very high unless you sacrifice a lot of yourself (under the radar) to get there or have connections, which is okay, but benefits stink.  In California, jobs pay higher with no relation on who you know or don't know, and benefits are great.  Not many know that, personally, we went through a very sad job situation with my husband in Utah.  The worst was that it all came down to discrimination and gossip...I know silly huh? A lot of people lose jobs in Utah based on gossip and who your connections are in the line of superiors.  Not all jobs are like that, but those exceptions are few.  The answer to our prayers was in an email and phone call letting my husband know that he had a job waiting here in California.  I was ecstatic, my husband was still re-cooperating from the hard blow from a job he really cared about, but in the end he was happy and we left.  Now, he earns about the same, but earns palpable commission with other perks, covered with full benefits at little out-of-pocket expense, and is recognized at work for ALL he does. We were also looking into having our baby and expenses while in Utah and figured it would cost us over $6,200 for me to deliver under my husband's costly insurance at the time.  In California we are going to pay $0.00.  That's right!  We will be worry-free and focus more on our family's outcome than our financial stress for this lil' baby girl!  Sometimes, when it comes down to jobs, we gotta take the open door blessedly provided instead of being stubborn and staying where we will ultimately lose in this money-driven world run by wolves and hungry sharks.
4)  California loves all races! I will not share my personal negative stories here because I've put it all behind me and learned from what I had to go through in Utah for being LATINA.  I will share this though: the select few Caucasians that do like Hispanics (more than just Mexican food) are absolutely good people! Not only on a personal scale is California more accepting, but the laws are more equal and offer opportunities to those desperately needing hope for their dreams.  I'm talking about illegals.  I'm blessed to be a citizen, but I do admire those that aren't because they are the definition of hard work.  I ran into families in Utah living on pure faith, some being torn apart by state laws, and some so alone.  Some young people hated going to school because they would get treated differently, and I'm not gonna lie, I wanted to take their place instead of watching them become broken.  I could only do so little, and yet I was experiencing the same things while in the park with my child or in the library, even the grocery store.  This is a supposed new era, new times, but some people are stuck...covered in modern masks of ignorance...but that's a whole other subject.

Now, I'm just happy to be back home :-).  We were living with a relative for just a bit and just recently moved into our new place about 2 weeks ago.  I'm exited because I get to decorate and we're only 11 weeks away from meeting out new baby too!  Here are some things I've been working on and want to keep making for our home:  (click on the images to see the tutorials)

...and once I have my rooms fully finished I will post up pictures to share what I've made.  I try to work at a bearable pace since I was put on bed rest for the remainder of the pregnancy and my little one is quite the little "helper"...when the mood strikes ;-)

A beautiful family truth!

Here's 2 quotes I found that I absolutely love, which I dedicate to my supportive parents for giving me this example:


Family is what grounds you.
 - ANGELINA JOLIE, interview, Jun. 13, 2001


Focus on your marriage. Because that's the nucleus of the home, whatever you do to restore its health and strength will naturally restore what's broken among the other relationships. If you have no children yet, this will make a comfortable nest for them to begin life well. If you have children, the changes you make in your marriage will affect the rest of the household more quickly and dramatically than you think. 
 -CHARLES R. SWINDOLL, Marriage: From Surviving to Thriving

I have parents that love each other, like for real! They love us (their children) and they support me in my endeavors and let me fall down to learn on my own...it wasn't always that way, but they too had to learn and when they learn something they act on it, not just keep it as knowledge.  They guided me and then watched me walk away into my own life, keeping to themselves and really letting me learn valuable lessons and truths that no parent can try to force into the mind of a growing child and less into a growing young adult.  I've learned of the good and the bad in life, though I have so much more to learn, I know I can say I was blessed to have parents that let me learn...they taught me to be receptive, honest, true, strong, not gossip, dedicated, just, cultivate my talents, to discover and never stop learning...and taught me important life skills that I actually use like cooking, socializing, manners, emphasis on education, cleaning, love of music and art and to have a genuine interest in the well-being of others without judgement, but to instead love, understand, and serve.

As I grew up at home, I knew that life wasn't perfect, but I knew I always had a mom and dad that loved me very much because I saw the love they had for each other.  They made it look so easy!  Yeah, they would disagree at times, but then made it a hilarious joke and would end up teasing each other at the end.  They always had date night!  We would make their patience run out, but they apologized for being frustrated and would talk to us about our lives no matter the amount of time it took out of their day.  They had/have family councils to let every member in the family express something and make plans.  I would sometimes hear them talking in their room late at night if there was an issue that needed resolving, and I would hear them pray.  They were interested in knowing who our friends were and cared to see us not get hurt.  They would cry...when we would feel alone...they knew us all to well.  When now I'm feeling down, I don't even have to tell them why, they just comfort and love...they remind me of my worth, my purpose and give me strength. To this day, I don't know how they did/do it all: 8 children, church callings (bishopric, stake, youth leader, etc), bills, teenagers, school, meetings, and they still have children in elementary that will have to go through years of growing before they can be on their own.  Just thinking about it all takes a toll on me!

Now, as a mother and wife I have only but to apply what I've been taught.  Life is harder than when you're living at home with your parents.  Life is challenging, yet lovely.  It can break you and you have to learn to rebuild yourself without a soul to comfort you at times.   Sometimes I give into the small things in life that others may take lightly, but then I feel horrible inside and have to quickly re-adjust because...I should know better.  I guess I can be hard on myself, but I recognize I'm human with weaknesses, but that's no excuse to not do the right thing.  My comfort comes from only relying on my Heavenly Father.  I know He loves me and He helps me.  That's also something that my parents let me learn on my own and so I have a burning testimony that it's true.

I'm not ashamed to let the world know I love my Mami and Papi.  Afterall, they gave a lot of themselves for me :-)

"Keeping up with the Joneses" in Utah

I read an article today about why people buy...here's a direct quote:


"To keep up with the Joneses – there are Joneses in everybody’s lives" 


This infuriated me because I see it! Now I don't know about you, but I'm the type that doesn't even give a glance to the Jones family in a neighborhood or community, I just don't don't care what everybody else has. I care more about what people don't have and what I can do to help, which is the main reason that my small, sole proprietorship businesses, generate very little money to me, but I give them all my best to provide in situations which cannot be reached otherwise.  Keep in mind that I grew up in a very different environment than Utah, which was California, yet I am, what the general population in the US has tagged as, Mormon.  I have a very strong testimony about why I participate in and try to live my religion...I know it to be true!


Perhaps because I know all this I never focused on material things or possessions.  I utilize money in a way to ONLY provide more for my family or enrich my life.  I can go walking all through a department store (even 4 or 5) and still buy nothing.  My husband on the other hand, is very different.  He loves to shop.  I know I can easily trace this to both our parents and how we were raised, for I still see this in action on both sides.  


Now, on to YOU keeping up with the Jones.  For those that don't know who the Joneses are, here is a quick definition:"Keeping up with the Joneses" is an idiom in many parts of the English-speaking world referring to the comparison to one's neighbor as a benchmark for social rank or the accumulation of material goods. To fail to "keep up with the Joneses" is perceived as demonstrating socio-economic or cultural inferiority.


I'm sure you understand it by now.  So, why? Don't fall into the mistake of trying to accumulate just to appear a certain way, nor to appeal to people.  I cannot repeat this too much, YOU ARE AMAZING JUST THE WAY YOU ARE!  You don't need a brand new car to show that.  You don't need a bigger home to be happier.  You don't need a certain brand of clothing so that others can see how beautiful you are.  You don'd need a certain latest gadget to appear smarter or sassier than that one person who can't seem to understand the necessity of it....believe me, all you've done is been a victim of marketing psychological tactics and ultimately made someone else richer.


I see the maintenance of appearances a lot and people fall into this regimen of "keeping up" so much and want it so badly, that they just forget about everything else even though they know what's important.  I've seen people lose homes, declare bankruptcy, get in tremendous debt, still go out on vacations, tummy tucks, buy $100 or more in one pair of shoes, barely having enough to cover utility bills, poor health care coverage in jobs, and still go out and get a recreational vehicle.  The worst part of this to me is that children in these homes will most likely carry with them these tendencies and trends, wanting the new things, needing the latest, appearing the best, and ultimately feeling more pressure, depression, and anxiety.  In the end, people try to live identical lives and sweep the rest away under a rug.

No matter where you live, the happiness of your family does not depend on location, it depends on you.

It's no wonder that these reports are so sad to even share, but better to know than not to know, I always say.  On a random note, I do love the scenery here and I like the change of season that clearly is seen in the leaves outside.  Besides that, these are only a few of the underlying issues:
Utah Foundation Executive Summary: Utah's Alarming Bankruptcy Problem which still remains true to today.
Utah's Education Funding Efforts: State Faces Long-Term Challenges
Educational Attainment: Utah Falling behind National Trends
KSL Report "Studies show Utah is Most Depressed"
Adolescent Pregnancy in Utah one of the lowest in nation, make up 11% of state births, one of highest of placing babies into adoption in nation. US being the highest in the world with 3 out of every 100 live births given to adoption :-(


Well, I kinda feel bad sharing all this...after all, I don't like sad news.  Just like other states have their downsides too, then I think I just wanted to shed some light on matters.  Like I said before: "No matter where you live, the happiness of your family does not depend on location, it depends on you."

5 Forget-Me-Not tips for life

This was all inspired and paraphrased from a talk given by Dieter F. Uchtdorf from the LDS presidency and Relief Society Worldwide General Conference.  As Woman, we were reminded to value ourselves and that our Heavenly Father loves us ever so much.  We are strong and we are chosen to lead our families, the greatest responsibility in the face of the earth...to raise your children to walk their life on their own :-)  Among many other great and amazing talks given during the session, this is a fun and simple one I loved.  See the image below for a visual of a forget-me-not flower.  Five petals, five forget-me-nots:

1.  Forget not to be patient with yourself.
   DON"t spend so much time comparing yourself to others and celebrate your efforts.
2.  Forget not the difference between a good sacrifice and a foolish sacrifice.
   Give up something good for something of far greater worth, never jeopardizing your family time. Ask if you're committing your time and energy to the things that matter most.
3.  Forget not to be happy now.
   Stop desperately yearning for your golden ticket (perfect marriage, stress-free life, money and riches, etc). Look at what you have, do not miss the tiny wonders around you...the daily moments of sweetness.
4.  Forget not the WHY of the gospel.   Don't see the gospel and work therein as a list of more stress you will add to YOUR life and do not focus on HOW to do things, but WHY.  Remember why you committed to having that light and joy in your life.
5.  Forget not that the Lord loves you.
   You are not forgotten...wherever you are, whoever you are.  No matter how dark your day may seem, nor how overshadowed you may think you are, nor how many mistakes you make...He loves you!  You are his child.

There is so much more to this and all the talks.  If you're interested in listening to these talks, just check out the LDS webpage if you're a member.  If you're not a member yet, then you can check out MORMON.ORG

It's not as bad as you think.

Tofu:  a great way to get a high-protein punch in your system without eating the fat.

Many people out there think of tofu as a limiting ingredient and avoid it unless it's in Chinese take-out.  Well, I know for a fact that it can be delicious!!  Whenever you cook tofu, you have to think of it as a meat and cook it as such.  Add what you like to flavor your meat with, or just lightly sautee it too.  Whatever you want to do, try it.  I know tofu is more expensive than regular meat, but I'd rather spend a few cents extra on a healthy ingredient today than spend hundreds when retirement approaches and I need pills or operations.  Weight your options always, pinching and saving is good, but not at the welfare of your health.

I usually just cook my tofu right after I'm done cooking my husband's chicken and use the same seasonings as well.  It cooks so fast and, depending on what firmness you bought, it's very versatile.  I typically buy the extra firm packs to have more options in suateeing  and cutting or lightly stir frying it and plate it as I would prepare a dish with meat.  My son loves this too and I feel confident in knowing that his body is receiving doses of protein to help him grow stronger.

Don't be afrais or skeptical, try it!  Tratalo!

Fresh herbs and your kitchen

Ever since we've moved to a new place last year, I've been needing some air in the house!  It's a great location and condo to live in, but in Utah the winter keeps people indoors for a LONG time.  I wanted something to do.  I needed some sun!!! I needed some fresh oxygen!!  Then, of course in my head, I thought of plants.  What a better way to bring life to this new place?  I can also teach my son about growth and mother nature besides reading books to him all the time.  So, as I shopped for some necessities one day, I quickly took a look at the clearance isle at one of our local general stores.  I saw that there were herb plants for only $1.50!!! Including a small planter with cute letters.  I had to get it!!!

So, here it is.  My son(19 months then) and I planted these and finally saw our parsley spring out lively and fresh!  I love cooking and having this a way better option than the dried version I usually buy.  Now, the only reason I buy dried herbs for cooking is because when I buy the fresh herbs, they go real bad or dry up.  I'm no specialist to keeping herbs potent nor do I know how to make sure it's still safe to eat.  So I buy the cheaper, dry herbs to add to my dishes when I'm cooking.  Recently, I bought a mint plant as well and boy is that smell strong!  I use mint for teas and I love it!!!  Tea can be therapeutic, medicinal, and healing.  Here's a quick recipe for making proper tea.  This is a general rule for most teas so they can be actually still potent and make an effect.

YOU WILL NEED

Water for boiling

Pot

Herb

Honey for sweetening because it's healthier and medicinal (sugar[even Splenda] defeats the purpose of taking in such rich nutrients and actually ferments in your stomach)

MAKE IT

1.  If this is just for you, then boil a little more than 2 cups of water and follow this general rule for more people.  This should boil for about 10 minutes on medium heat.

2.  After you see bubbling water, lower it to simmering heat and add the herbs.  Let this simmer and boil for about 10 more minutes.  This allows the herbs to soften and let out it's flavors and nutrients.

3.  Now, remove it from heat and let it stand until it's safe enough to consume.  After you pour the tea into your cup, quickly add some honey.  Natural honey the best, from bees.  It enhances the flavors and the aroma is incomparable!!

BEWARE:  Tea should not be left standing for more than 7-12 hours, depending on the herbs being used.  Please, be aware that I do not cosume black tea, nor weight-loss gimmick teas.  My advice is for general consumption of Chamomille(manzanilla), Mint, and other common household herbs.  If you would like a tea for a specific issue or want to know more about herbal uses visit:

Home Remedies and Natural Cures for Common Illnesses

Home Remedies and Natural Cures

Herb Natural Remedies

Now enjoy! Buen provecho!

My Needed Detox and Cleanse

So, I've been gaining some weight recently.  I know I don't eat wrong, like junk food or fast food, and I cook everything I eat, but...I'm very stressed.  Stress is our bodies enemy because it releases toxins into your bloodstream, as does anger and fear.  I've gotten married and I just worry about everyone else over me...but I love lovin'.

Anyway, I don't get panic attacks, but I do worry a lot.   Lately, it's  money.  I don't mind saying it because everyone worries about it, a lot.  Ever since I stopped "working" I've stepped back from that control panel and my hubby has made some regrettable decisions, but he fixes them if possible.  He's learning, and I just have to let him learn about how money management is also a partnership, whether or not I get a payroll.  I'm kind of a control-freak too and I love to make plans. Plans make the world go 'round, in a very organized way.  I also have an IUD as my contraceptive.  Unfortunately (we are all adults here) this makes me have a super heavy menstrual.  I need a Tampax and Maxi change every 2-3 hours for 5 days straight.  No light days.  Im' regular though.  So, I inevitably developed anemia.  Another thing, Andrew is super active and I've had to channel some of his brain's activity to reading and learning since he was a year, but he's a never-ending human circus.  He's been like that since he could walk.  Many are impressed he's not in his terrible twos yet.  I love him though!  Then, there's a Guatemala vacation my husband wants to take with his family, which means more money, and we have to take our baby too because his family says he needs to experience it.  I know he won't remember a single thing though, but I gotta go with the flow and enjoy the ride fully to avoid any unnecessary stress.  It seems I'm almost venting, but I'm not.  I use music and art for that, and recently running too.

So, what am I gonna do to remedy at least partial of the stress and get rid of toxin loads?  A cleansing of course and detoxification!  I used to do this all the time before I married and maintained my weight at a healthy 123-125lbs.  I'm no doctor, but my dad is a self-taught nutritionist and while he was reading and testing things for himself, I followed/read along since I was a female and so we compared differences in results after trying our individual experiences.  My mom was always so busy and I was at a peak of wanting to know more...I guess I still am, haha.  Well, after I was married I became pregnant and ended at 179lbs right before my baby was born a little earlier than expected, but healthy.  Now, I weight 132lbs.  You gotta realize I have big cheeks and a round face, so my weight can be seen instantly.  I am also very short, 5'2. Don't get me wrong, I love my body and myself, but I know when my body needs to start getting in gear again from the inside.

I love cleansing my body and going through a detox because it rejuvenates me and maintains my weight without sacrifices.  Of course, I don't eat much junk food anyway or fast food, but I can get away with eating almost anything I actually like.  The reason I used to maintain my weight was because I cleansed my body  every 3 months or so.  Our bodies are like cars, you need to tune them up and make sure things run good from the inside.  Otherwise, that's how you start to get problems and buildup of toxins your body can't tolerate and we are such beautiful creations that it's a waste to be careless of our organs. Symptoms that you may be accumulating toxins at a rate higher than your body can process include fatigue, irritability, skin problems, digestive issues, aches and pains, stress, and even other behavioral problems.

Now, I've written very much and it's time to tell you the specifics of cleansing and detox so you can get a "tune up" if you wan to try.   I'm no doctor and you need to know your body well before committing to these methods of naturally cleansing.  I'm currently on my 3rd day of Pineapple and Chlorophyll juice.

Pineapple and Chlorophyll Cleanse/Detox
PURPOSE: Kicks your metabolism into high gear naturally from the pineapple, and chlorophyll acts as super nutrients and supports your intestinal and circulatory health, so your body gets a vacation from eating bad fats, but still gets all it needs.
EXTRAS:  Lose up to 10lbs along the process. My dad and I tried it at the same time and he lost almost 12lbs, while I lost 10lbs.  The juice is really tasty too!
WHAT YOU NEED:  Natural pineapple juice (no sugars or concentrate)and lots of it, 32oz Liquid Chlorophyll from Nature's Sunshine (it's the best/purest we've tried without "adding" more unnecessary ingredients), Spirulina tablets.
WHAT TO DO:  During 7 days, all you consume is pineapple juice with the Chlorophyll in it.  Nothing else.  I combine both in a clean, empty gallon and put it in the fridge and keep refilling until the 7 days are up.  For every 8oz of juice, add a teaspoon of chlorophyll.  If I go out, I carry my bottle with this mixture inside.  Take a Spirulina tablet in the morning and again at night, varying to how much meat you're used to consuming.  So the more meat you eat, then up the ratio, read the label too.
NOTE:  The first 2 days are always the hardest, mentally.  Realize that you need to fully commit to get through it. 


Raw Foods Diet Cleanse/Detox
PURPOSE:  This really sets your whole digestive system in good, clean shape.  Your body will get a rest from toxins and soon after you end you will immediately see what foods your body does not take well or what effects they bring if you do consume them.  Even the apple of your cheeks become naturally flushed!
EXTRAS:  Lose up to 10lbs if you do the 10-day liquids.  I lost 8lbs and my father lost about 10 with this too.  Your taste buds will also become very sensible afterwards and tastes of cooked foods can be powerful and some very sour.
WHAT YOU NEED:  Raw foods and a blender. Distilled water.  If you are deficient in anything else, please, take the necessary supplements.  Raw foods are all fresh foods like vegetables and fruits.  Nothing cooked or with preservatives, nor grains or meats.  Lemon or limes to help with digestion, cleansing, flavoring, and purifying.  Other than fresh produce, you can consume raw oatmeal, EVOO (first cold pressed), sea salt, natural honey and soy milk(minimally).  No nuts.
WHAT TO DO:  Start by eating only raw foods for 2 whole days.  On the third day, you will start with liquids counting as your first day of liquid raw foods, so you need to blend everything and make smoothies. Get creative and explore how satisfying this can be.  Here, you let your digestive system not do any work as far as breaking down your foods goes and so your body will naturally focus on other parts that have been needing some work or attention.  Amazing, huh?  There are three options while on the liquid part which are 3, 5, or 10 total days of liquids.  The longer you go, the more you clean, but 10 days is very cleansing and should be done about twice a year only.  While on the liquid phase, you cannot chew gum or stimulate your mouth to produce saliva in any way.  This will set your digestion into gear and defeats the purpose of letting it rest to detox.  If you do, drink water immediately.  Finally, after your liquid phase, end with another 2 days of eating raw foods and continue eating as normal afterwards.
NOTE:  Try eating rich fruits that will help still bring in Omega3 and other good fatty acids still in your system, like avocado.  Also, consume your smoothies fresh, do not store for more than 2 hours at a time.  Also, if you cheat(meaning even a bite of that nasty hamburger), then you must start from day 1, meaning eating raw foods.  It's not that hard, but we mentally make it a battle.

Well, I hope this inspires someone to detox or cleanse.  Get to know your bodies and find out why you have certain triggers or problems.  If anything is changing that's not normal, then try a cleanse and see if it gets rid of it.  Sometimes it takes 2 weeks up to a month for your body to get rid of something bad in the system.  Otherwise, see a doctor and tell them what you really are experiencing that is bothersome.  Whether you decide to see a doctor or cleanse, do it now.  Don't wait for things to get worse or decide to live with it because it will only result in something bad in the long run that could have been prevented.

Ice Cream Alternative

Do you love the sweet and chilly feeling of ice cream? Do you feel sometimes guilty of eating a little more than the serving suggestion on the Nutritional Label? Do you really read it after you buy it? Well, there are lots of alternatives to getting the regular ice cream from a bucket or tiny pint that squeezes out your pocket money.

First, make Popsicles. If it's a chilly, sweet rush that your body craves, then chances are that you'll still be satisfied from eating one, or two. You can easily make them yourself. Avoid buying the boxes that claim to be made of real juice, seeming natural...just buy a Popsicle container-maker, even found in dollar stores, and fill in with your favorite real juice(powdered drinks are bad for you and they just freeze up tasteless). Let it sit while you make dinner and after everyone's stuffed from the delicious suppper you made, then pull out the popcicles! They do take at least 2 hours to get firm all the way, if you put them towards the back of your freezer. My husband gets a sweet tooth late at night and I'm determined to help him with making him a happier, and healthier guy...yes, it's super tough, but he loves what I make and is surprised when I tell him it's so healthy too.

Which brings me to a small sidenote: habits. What we freely give to our children now will create habits for their future. Perfect example, my husband. He's used to eating out...a lot...and has a sweet tooth. To make a long story short, his father was diagnosed with diabetes over a year now and he's in his mid-40s. That's young! My grandmother died of diabetes and I wrote a post on it the day she passed. My father is a pretty healthy guy and self-taught/self-experimented nutritionist and he's so healthy that he ONLY suffers from allergies at his mid-50s and has8 children, the youngest being 4 and 7 year old sons that he still plays horse with and helps build forts for them. Lesson: the habits we create will help maintain us or destroy us and we are responsible for the habits our children learn to create that will eventually lead to a longer or shorter life.

Now, back to normal ice-cream alternatives...frozen yogurt. You can easily find this at the grocery next to the normal ice-cream. Sure it costs a few cents more, but I have a motto: I can pay $1 more for this food I'll eat now, or I can put it in my body and live with it until I medically need to spend hundreds of dollars on medications later...yeah, the $1 sounds better.

Shakes! Oh I just love these! I buy bananas when they're on sale and of course, we sometimes can't finish it all. Partially I just store up in the freezer when it's ripe and the other I bake. The freezer portions are thrown into a soymilk shake and blended until frothy and hmmm....sweet heaven. I love home-made shakes! You can do the same with berries you see on sale. I don't even bother putting these in the frigde, they just go straight to the freezer. They thaw pretty fast too if I'm not using them as shake ingredients.

If you really want to get the sweet craving out of the way, drink a tall glass of water and wait about 30 mintues while you keep yourself busy. Sometimes, you'll forget, but if you don't then grab vanilla yogurt and sprinkle on chocolate chips, frozen berries, or other sweet you have that won't hurt your budget or health.

When cutting an orange/lemon/lime/tangerine...

If it's kinda chili outside, but you still like to eat citrus fruits, then save your peels!  I know I love the aroma of boiling my citrus peels, whether I'm peeling some for my family, or just for myself.  It's healthy to keep as much as you can eat from the white layer just below the peel too.  It's high in calcium. 

White layer= Calcium= Healthier you= Happier you

 Put the peels in a medium-sized pot and fill with water.  Set to medium-high heat, set in your peels and let it sit.  You can start one in the morning and keep an eye on it throughout the day and refill with water if your running real low.  You don't want it to bubble per say, but you do want some vapor rising up.  You warm up your house and give it a warm citrus smell too.  Save on your electricity for the day if you heat it just right!Everyone's stove is different so figure it out.

Also, if you just cut lemons/limes for squeezing into juice, a recipe or over food, then save those halves.  There are many uses for these if your gonna be cleaning for that day.  You can use it to clean you tabletop, counters, and oven top.  Just grab the sliced halves you save, squeeze and wipe on surface and wipe away with a damp rag (or whatever you use to clean).  If you have issues with needing chemicals, then lightly spray/pour onto the rag before you use it.  If you're not using the pieces that day then let it sit overnight in a dish that might need to be soaked with water for a few hours overnight and rinse away in the morning.  Try not to exceed a day to get rid of the slice.  Those same lemon/lime slices can be thrown into your dish disposal and release a fresh scent in your sink and surrounding areas. Just make sure the outside layer is still soft, not hard because then you'll ruin your disposal.

COOL sites

1. heyitsfree.net = all about free samples, categories, and free birthday sign-ups for certain places that give you free stuff or discounts.

2. acupfull.com = lists of grocery specials and coupons, printable and very current.

3. ivillage.com = women's site about endless topics and advice.

4. facebook.com = free networking, and a good way to keep in touch with friends.

5. babystrology.com = a simple, free way to learn quick basics for baby at home along with a game (I hold the site's record at 2.69 seconds...for now!)

6. ebay.com = buy, sell, or bid. It's an international person to person auction site, with products sorted into categories.

7. behr.com = great for people that want to see how a certain color will look in a room before painting. Has great tips for painting schemes too.

8. coupondivas.com = price comparisons, coupons, and free stuff for kids.

9. gifts.com = a good source for ideas when your stumped on gifts for someone.

10. wikipedia.org = an online collaborative encyclopedia

11. letssingit.com = can't remember the artist to a certain song? What was that great song you danced to once and just got crazy? This site looks up songs with just parts of lyrics too.

12. epicurious.com = recipes galore! For the very advanced and simple-minded.

13. shoplocal.com = price comparisons in your local area.

14. epinions.com = consumer based opinions on products you're thinking of buying.

15. imbd.com = shows plot summaries, reviews, cast lists, and theatre schedules.

16. photobucket.com = reliable,fast and easy-to-use image web hosting and online album. I've used it and still do to keep my computer memory free of clutter.

17. thesaurus.com = I love this site!...it's self-explanitory ;-)

18. espn.go.com = Hugo loves this one a lot.

19. howstuffworks.com = curious about something? You'll find it here.

I'll keep adding so as to never forget those good old sites that make my mind smarter, make my hands quicker, and don't take too much of my time or especially my money.