Beth's Blog

New Year Wish

2012-01-01T17:29:00.000-07:00

President Thomas S. Monson sums up my New Year wish for 2012:

President Monson goes on to explain his ABC's of living an abundant life.

Click here to find out more!

Last Day of the Year!

2011-12-31T12:08:00.000-07:00

I had a great day and it started off with a hike! Dad and I hiked the Corona de Loma trail. So long 2011!

Happy Birthday to Me!

2011-12-26T12:06:00.000-07:00

THE BIG 27! What a day! On FB I posted: Thanks for all the birthday wishes! I had a wonderful day! Each year gets better and better! So grateful for awesome family and friends. ♥

I am not sure if pictures could capture the awesomeness of the day but I'll post one -- dessert. My birthday lunch consisted of being surrounded by my family at Picazzo's. I had the Puttanesca Pizza with a side of the Fresh Pear Gorgonzola salad. It was delicious!

After dinner I saw the movie, War Horse with Katie and yes I cried. Then I finished off the day at the Olive Garden with my parents. Happy Birthday to me!

Fall Break: Utah Trip

2011-11-09T20:14:00.000-07:00

I loved every minute!

Halloween

2011-11-08T20:22:00.000-07:00

Busy Saturday: Hiking

2011-09-17T09:27:00.000-07:00

Today was a very busy day! It got off to a great start with a hike on South Mountain. Geneva and I went on the Telegraph Pass Trail. I got a Polar HeartRate Mointor which has GPS so I decided to make it's debut today. I got it syncronized but towards the end of our hike I realized I didn't select the hiking sport option. So I got some of it. Better luck next time right!

Here is a snapshot of my stats:

Beautiful View

Geneva and I

another beautiful view (I love South Mountain!)

I was asking Adam and Xan about their Camelpacks because I was interested in purchasing one. Xan said, "We have one in our garage and it's brand new. Merry Christmas!" I LOVE IT! Can't wait to use it again!

Busy Saturday: Shopping

2011-09-17T09:00:00.001-07:00

So my mom and I love these little shops in downtown Mesa called Domestic Bliss and Found. It was decorated so cute plus Mom and I found some great buys. I even got some of my Christmas shopping done!

Mark your calendar for Friday and Saturday, October 14-15 from 10 to 5.

Then I spent the rest of the day in my classroom, grading papers, and writing a paper.

It was a great Saturday!

Girls on the Run

2011-09-15T21:20:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday and Thursday you won't find me in my classroom after school.

I will be coaching Girls on the Run (GOTR)!

Spring 2011 has brought 32 girls and 2 extra coaches.

Girls on the Run is so much FUN!

Vision of Girls on the Run: We envision a world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential and is free to boldly pursue her dreams.

Family Fun

2011-09-14T22:59:00.002-07:00

While Adam and Xan hike Havasupai I get to hang out

the with my nieces and nephews for a few days.

We always have fun!

(Ray not pictured because he was at mutual.
Lucy was off hanging out with Sammy.)

Character Day

2011-09-07T22:30:00.003-07:00

So we have Peace Days at our school. If we as a school can solve our conflicts in a peaceful way (i.e. no hitting) we get a Peace Day. Every so often we celebrate.

Today was the day of celebrating 15 peace days.

It was dress up as your favorite character.

I was BubbleWrap Girl!

Brought to you by the Disney TV show Sonny with a Chance on the sketch Loser Force Five! (okay so I know you are dying to see this sketch so take one minute and have a good laugh) My nephews and nieces always get a kick out of this show and I probably laugh just as much or more than they do!

My desk

2011-09-02T23:40:00.000-07:00

So my desk has been over run with drawings of Hallmark's Hoops and Yoyo! My students this year are CrAzY about them! I love these guys (both my students and Hoops and Yoyo)! They talk about manners (like how to raise your hand and washing your hands). Plus they have plenty of ecards to browse and enjoy! I try to celebrate their birthday by having them choose their favorite ecard. I also try to celebrate the different holidays throughout the school year.

Here are some of my favorites:

Let's Bee Friends

Making of your Birthday Card

We Interrupt Your Day

Happy Birthday or Else!

Wiggly Halloween

If you are in need of a laugh, check these guys out!

Come on you know you want to!

Welcome Malcolm McCoy Dibble!

2011-08-30T22:59:00.001-07:00

He's here!
Congratulations Elliot, Whitney, and Stella! So happy for you!

First Day of School

2011-08-08T17:49:00.000-07:00

Are you ready to set sail on the 2011 - 2012 school year?

I am!

Summer Clean Out

2011-06-04T12:54:00.001-07:00

Something that's been on my list for quite a while is to go through my files, papers, binders, etc. Here is something that made me laugh, my goals from 1996. I was 11!

Beach Camping 2011

2011-06-03T22:00:00.000-07:00

It was a great way to relax!

The food was delicious!

The beach was cold but fun!

Here are some photos:

Enjoy!

If you want to see more check out my Flickr link here.

Tornados

2011-05-26T23:01:00.000-07:00

With the recent tornados in our country my heart is heartbroken and empowered when I hear stories like the two I want to share:

Story #1:

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Story #2:

Rio

2011-05-07T22:46:00.000-07:00

My parents and I saw Rio today! It's been on our list and if it's not on yours it should be. The movie theatre was packed and it was super cute to hear all the kids (and adults) laughing. I laughed out loud many times.

Shout out to David, my cousin! Great Job! The colors were fantastic!

Girls on the Run is so much Fun!

2011-05-07T22:42:00.000-07:00

This day had finally come! The GOTR 5K! It was a beautiful day!

I was so proud of all of the girls!

Time Flies

2011-05-07T22:32:00.000-07:00

My goodness time sure does fly when you're having fun. I've been so busy the past month. Here are a few pictures of what I've been up to:

Stella and I at Gnomeo and Juliet

Ray and George performed in their Drama Play, Alice in Wonderland. George was the White Rabbit and Ray was the Mad Hatter. They were awesome!

Our school celebrated 100 Peaceful days. We had a parade around the school and then a got together to form a heart (notice all the red). Very fun!

Dunk Tank

2011-04-03T12:42:00.000-07:00

Second year in a row. okay. I think the kiddos have been practicing. The water felt really good especially after the 100 degree day! Here are some pictures. Enjoy:

Terrific Thursday

2011-03-24T12:42:00.001-07:00

Last Thursday was incredibly! At the end of a long day of molding the minds of America's Future. Geneva came and gave a presentation to my students about Navajos. I had Girls on the Run after school where we talked about cooperation. Then I spent the evening with Geneva at the Musical Instrument Museum. It was amazing! We spent about an hour and a half there and still there was plenty more to see. Enjoy the pictures of my busy day!

Family Reunion Day 3

2011-03-20T20:07:00.000-07:00

Family Reunion Day 2

2011-03-20T19:27:00.000-07:00

Family Reunion Day 1

2011-03-20T19:06:00.000-07:00

Dibble Family Reunion

March 2011

Sedona, AZ

Birthday Celebrations

2011-03-16T20:18:00.000-07:00

Hiking with G

2011-03-16T08:24:00.000-07:00

It was a great way to start a beautiful day!

Family Pictures

2011-02-28T21:49:00.000-07:00

I really don't remember the last time our family got our pictures together without someone pressing the self-timer button. Whitney's cousin, Savanna, took them. Check out her blog here. Here are all of the Dibble Clan:

Susan's Run Pics

2011-02-20T21:51:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from Whitney's camera! I love the one she caught of me running with Stella!

Susan's Run Year 2

2011-02-19T13:13:00.000-07:00

Susan's Run was today! The support was great! Bigger crowd than last year! Even the Corona del Sol Track and Field and Cross Country came out to run and support. I haven't been training but I did run the 5K coming in with a time of 49 minutes just a few minutes past my time last year. I was glad I finished. Here are some pictures I took:

Sunday Insight

2011-02-13T16:28:00.001-07:00

Coach Brilliant

2011-02-08T21:16:00.000-07:00

Today was the day I was counting down to. At my school I am helping with a program called Girls on the Run which "encourages girls in 3rd through 5th grade to develop self-respect and healthy lifestyles through running. Our 10-week curricula address all aspects of girls' development - their physical, emotional, mental, social and spiritual well-being."

It was a great beginning! As part of day one the girls (12 of them) got to pick a name. After a name game where I gave the example of Brilliant Beth they decided to call me Coach Brilliant.
I like it!
Here are some pictures:

Classroom Fun

2011-02-07T19:57:00.000-07:00

Have I ever mentioned how much I love my job?

Go Suns!

2011-02-04T23:34:00.000-07:00

Tonight Grandpa took Ray, George and I to the Suns game!

It was a really close game!

We had a lot of fun!

Sunset

2011-02-01T23:34:00.000-07:00

Notes

2011-01-29T10:38:00.001-07:00

This year more than ever I get notes from my students. Here is one I got the other day.

Decades Dance

2011-01-29T09:12:00.000-07:00

Decades Dance - verb; noun

to move one's feet and/or body to the accompany of music played during the 1950's, 60's, 70's, 80's, 90's, and now
dance like crazy with your students
have lots of fun

Best compliment I've ever gotten as a teacher was this past week. Mrs. B came to our school and played air guitar, used different voices, etc. My students turned to me and said, "Ms. Dibble she's crazier than you!" Well last night I got a little crazy and had a good time! Enjoy!

Happy Birthday to ME!

2011-01-17T19:00:00.000-07:00

For my GOLDEN birthday we celebrated at The Cheesecake Factory on Monday, Dec. 27! I couldn't have asked for a better day surrounded by those I love! The food was delicious! So far 26 is lookin' good!

Over Winter Break: A Trip to the Zoo

2011-01-17T18:37:00.000-07:00

We went to the World Wildlife Zoo and Aquarium. It was raining and a bit chilly but we had lots of fun!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

Christmas Eve Hike

2010-12-24T13:44:00.000-07:00

Every year we hike Camelback Mountain around Christmas time. Every year someone hauls up a Christmas tree up at the top. This year I made an ornament. Here are some pictures. Enjoy!

Christmas Eve Eve

2010-12-23T13:39:00.000-07:00

great food + lots of laughter + a Christmas message + family & friends = BLISS

fruit, chile rice, spinach artichoke dip with bread and chips, hummus platter, dad's amazing beans

claire's lemonade

elliot and ray making plantains

lucy

anabelle and sammy

whitney and lucy

mom, lucy, and elliot

whitney and elliot's homemade churros

a gift from the heart

2010-12-18T23:30:00.000-07:00

As a teacher I get several gifts before the Winter Break. Things like lotions, gift cards, books, ornaments, etc. The students really like watching me open their gifts and I try to make them feel as special as possible. For example if they gave me a scented candle I would have the kids smell it and comment of how nice it smells.

This year my students did something I've never had happen before.

They secretly signed it, passed it around,

and left it on my desk!

I'm the luckiest teacher ever!

my FRAME tree

2010-12-18T23:20:00.000-07:00

This has been in my files for a very long time.

Today I created this:

Enjoy!

Update

2010-12-04T21:51:00.000-07:00

Her are some pictures of what I've been up to. I'll post the other when I get a chance. Today Dad and I spent the afternoon in downtown Tempe at the Tempe Art Festival. It was so much fun! There were tons of people. Dad and I shared a Tornado Fry (pictured).

Beautiful Arizona sunset!

A new Farmer's Market on Warner and McClintock. Saturday mornings!

Here are a few pictures of Thanksgiving. After our meal we had a Nerf gun battle in the backyard! Highly recommended!

I had a great Thanksgiving Break! More pictures to come!

Funny Friday

2010-11-06T08:41:00.000-07:00

So I may not get things right off the bat but at least they come. I am not really sure when this started but in high school one of my teachers always cracked jokes and about 10 seconds (it was more like 5) I would always be laughing. The jokes were really corny too.
Yesterday I had playground duty and many students come up to say hi. This incident came from a couple of students I didn't know. They were probably in second grade. They came up to me while we were all lining up after the morning bell and said

“You’re number one!”

            I was so touched and thought, "That's so sweet."
            You can imagine my amazement when another student came up to me and said the same thing. I thought, "Wow, I am number one."
            Just as the second student walked away it dawned on me. For the Book Fair we had our pictures taken with a mask and the students had to guess the picture with the correct teacher. Guess which number was mine! Yep, number one.

Patience

2010-10-24T16:21:00.000-07:00

I didn't get a chance to share this in Relief Society today so I wanted to share it here on my blog. I love this quote so much I wrote it in my scriptures.

An Invitation to Know the Savior

2010-07-25T22:03:00.000-07:00

“What does it mean to seek the face of the Savior? Surely it means more than just recognizing His picture. Christ’s invitation to seek Him is an invitation to know who He is, what He has done for us, and what He has asked us to do. Coming to Christ, and eventually seeing His face, comes only as we draw close to Him through our faith and our actions. It comes through a lifetime of effort.”

Cheryl C. Lant, “That Our Children Might See the Face of the Savior,” Ensign, May 2010, 81

Artwork by Del Parson

Lunch Date with Dad

2010-07-23T19:43:00.000-07:00

The kids, plus Stella minus Lucy (she was with Whitney), Mom, and I went onto Dad's office to visit and have lunch at Aunt Chilada's. After lunch Mom and the kids and I headed over to Smeek's. It was awesome! When we got home we played around the house. The kids are now watching TMNT! What a wonderful day! Here are some pictures I took with my BIG camera. I used my lens 50mm. Enjoy!

George, Ray, and Stella up in a tree.

The kids at Aunt Chilada's.

By the Dibble Engineering truck.

By the really BIG fountain.

Smeeks

Sugar Bowl Again!

2010-07-21T23:10:00.000-07:00

I know I've blogged about the Sugar Bowl many times but it's one of our favorite places. We went today and we had the whole back part to ourselves. It was wonderful! Here is a collage I made of some pictures I took:

As I was walking to the cars I glanced down and saw this:

I would say this day was a success! Don't you?

Dibble Vacation

2010-07-19T22:47:00.000-07:00

The continuing adventures at Grandma Dibble's. I promise we are not going to spend our whole vacation in our pj's, but today was another on of those days (and to be honest I loved it).

George and Claire made a slide out of the sleeping bags.

The kids also got all of my dog stuff animals and played Pet Store.

Anabelle and Claire cleaned around the house.

Claire helped me put pictures in the frames in my room (that's been on my to do list for a long time).

We had McDonald's for lunch, Panda Express for dinner, followed by an evening showing of Babe (one of Grandpa's favorites).

Tomorrow we have plans to leave the house and not just to get the mail.

Switzerland, Austria, and Germany

2010-07-18T14:55:00.000-07:00

About every two years the Wiscombe Family trek out into the world for ten days or so. A couple years ago they went to Spain. This year they are going to Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. I get to be a mini-mommy and play with my nieces and nephews all day long. I have made a list of things to do and places to go. Here is what we've been up to so far.

Thursday Night --- it begins!

Friday --- Day One

This day was spent in our pj's. A great way to start our vacation!

Claire took a couple of pictures while I was playing WiiGolf with Ray. Ray won!

afternoon movie anyone? My favorite Homeward Bound: the Incredible Journey (yes they are in their sleeping bags)

the girls love playing resturant

Sammy has been really good with the kids. I think by the end of day one all she wanted to do was be close to Mom. Here is a picture to prove it!

Saturday -- Day Two

Not as many pictures but that doesn't mean we had less fun! Stella came over and played with the girls. We love it when Stella comes to play! Ray and George were very happy playing Lego Harry Potter and Transformers on the Wii. They are really good about taking turns on the Wii and on the computer.

Sunday --- Day Three

We went to church! I plan of making a fruit pizza, reading, and playing games with the kids. I am sure I will take some pictures. I'll post later.

Telegraph Pass Trail

2010-07-14T10:05:00.000-07:00

I went hiking again. With Geneva. This is one of my favorite trails on South Mountain. It's a quick morning hike. A great way to start the day! Here are some pictures:

Red and Rover

2010-07-13T17:05:00.000-07:00

I found a new comic strip, Red and Rover. It's about a boy and his dog. I think it was made for me! Enjoy!

Beverly Canyon

2010-07-09T16:48:00.000-07:00

Wednesday morning Geneva, Bob (her MTC companion), and I hiked South Mountain. It was fun.

4th of July Family Get-Together

2010-07-04T09:54:00.000-07:00

We celebrated the 4th of July a couple of days early. We went swimming, grilled some chicken, hot dogs, and bell peppers. I made some Rice Casserole. For dessert we had chocolate chip cookies, M&M cookies, ice cream, and red, white, and blue rocket Popsicles. Here are a few snapshots of the day! Enjoy!

Rice Casserole

2010-07-01T17:36:00.000-07:00

The past several months I have been cooking a lot. I haven't gotten around to blogging so here's a start.

Grandma Dibble made this often. It's really easy to make and you can even make this ahead of time.

I really like this with chicken as a main dish.

Rice Casserole

1 pt. sour cream

1 small can of diced green chiles

1 can cream of celery soup

2 c. shredded cheddar cheese

2 c. cooked white rice

Combine sour cream, green chiles, soup, and cheddar cheese. Stir together thoroughly. Add rice and stir well. Bake in casserole dish at 375 degrees for 45 minutes.

Enjoy! If you try it tell me what you think!

Scanner

2010-07-01T11:21:00.000-07:00

A couple of days ago Dad and I hooked up our new scanner, copier, printer. I've been having lots of fun scanning in some photos.

Grandpa and Grandma Gregory

Lisa Kempton Cole and I swimming

Kelsey Phillips and I in her backyard with her dog Dolly

My cousins and I modeling for our rock band cover

(I can't believe that was ten years ago!)

I am sure there will be more to come.

Update

2010-06-24T17:01:00.000-07:00

I've had a lot of pictures on my camera. Here is what I've been up to lately.

First I've updated my blog. I hope you like it.

I also got a new phone and I love it.

For Mother's Day my mom requested that I make crepes. So I did! They were delicious!

The nephews and nieces came over a while ago and I played Minotaurus with Ray and George. Then I took a couple of snapshots of the girls.

Happy Father's Day

My Dad has this gift of pulling together a meal out of every leftover in the fridge and

IT'S SO YUMMY!

The other day he made a BBQ Shredded Pork Salad.

Yesterday I got my wisdom teeth out. They weren't impacted but the dentist recommended that they get out. I was really nervous because I had never been under before. It was a quick extraction. All four teeth and I was under ... for like 20 minutes. Apparently my mom says I was hilarious. She says that when she went in I was talking jibberish really loud. After a few moments of that my mom said,

"Beth you sound like you are talking French?"

I immediatly started yelling, "BON APPETIT" just like Julia Child. At which point my nurse said that she loved that show. Needless to say I quoted movies the whole way home. As slept most day and found this as I woke up.

I am doing really well. Still taking it easy but I am not in that much pain.

Swimming

2010-06-12T18:28:00.000-07:00

The water was cool and refreshing! Enjoy!

Friday Fun

2010-06-12T07:59:00.000-07:00

I had a great day yesterday! Just wanted to share! Enjoy!!

Momentum Salon.

"My Chihuahua Bites" in honor of Sammy.

Orange Leaf

The Karate Kid

The Dirty Dozen

Beach Camping

2010-06-08T19:38:00.000-07:00

The week after school got out I spent my first days of summer at the beach in Carlsbad State Beach Park I couldn't think of a better way to spend my summer with my brothers and their families. Everything was heaven, except for the squirrels eating our strawberries. Here are some pictures below. Enjoy!

Sheep

2010-06-08T19:00:00.000-07:00

Title: Sheep

Author: Valerie Hobbs

While at the beach I read this book:

This book was told from the eyes of a border collie. As this dog wanders to find out where he belongs he meets people and other dogs that later define him for the canine he is. It reminded me of The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane. I would highly recommend this book for any dog lover.

Last of School!!

2010-05-27T19:13:00.000-07:00

It's always a bittersweet moment for me. (tear) Summer here I come!!

good Better BEST

2010-05-01T08:26:00.000-07:00

In choosing how we spend time as a family, we should be careful not to exhaust our available time on things that are merely good and leave little time for that which is better or best. A friend took his young family on a series of summer vacation trips, including visits to memorable historic sites. At the end of the summer he asked his teenage son which of these good summer activities he enjoyed most. The father learned from the reply, and so did those he told of it. "The thing I liked best this summer," the boy replied, "was the night you and I laid on the lawn and looked at the stars and talked." Super family activities may be good for children, but they are not always better than one-on-one time with a loving parent.

The amount of children-and-parent time absorbed in the good activities of private lessons, team sports, and other school and club activities also needs to be carefully regulated. Otherwise, children will be overscheduled, and parents will be frazzled and frustrated. Parents should act to preserve time for family prayer, family scripture study, family home evening, and the other precious togetherness and individual one-on-one time that binds a family together and fixes children's values on things of eternal worth.

~Dallin H. Oaks, Good Better Best, Ensign November 2007

Luau

2010-04-25T11:29:00.000-07:00

me and matt

fire dancing

great food + fun company + awesome shaved ice + haka + fire dancing = wonderful evening

Aloha!

Fruit Pizzas

2010-04-04T22:52:00.000-07:00

For dessert I made individual fruit pizzas. It was fun to come up with each design. I used strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. For the crust I used sugar cookies. The filling was a cream cheese frosting. They were really good and everyone liked them!

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T21:36:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful day! We had General Conference in the morning and afternoon. The speakers all did a great job. I took Sammy for a nice stroll around the neighborhood. My family got together for dinner. I made individual fruit pizzas for dessert. We ate outside and most of the time outside too.
Here are a few pictures of the day.

Grandma and the Granddaughters

Lucy got stuck but was able to get out with some help from Grandpa.
Lucy loves flying high with her Daddy.

Ray and George had a water fight.

March Update

2010-04-02T07:47:00.000-07:00

Where did March go? I've been really busy. Here are some pictures of what I've been up to. Enjoy!

I went hiking with Adam's Family. We went to Fat Man's Pass at South Mountain.

I went to the temple! Look how beatiful the flowers are! Love it!

Went to a Spring Training game with the family!

I ran the 5K at Susan's first annual run! I am not a runner like Susan was. I love the idea of running but actually running is a different story. I was so touched by all of the poeple who came and supported Susan whether they were running or helping or even just there. Susan was a wonderful friend to anyone she met. I love the picture my Dad took of my running across the finish line. In the lower left hand corner you can see my Mom pointing at me. They were so proud of me! I could hear my Mom say, "There she is!" as I rounded the last corner of the race. To be honest I think they were a little worried about me. I came in 180 with 44:54 as my time. Next year I hope to do better.

Friday night the event my class had been waiting finally came. I chance to dunk Ms.Dibble in the dunk tank at the school's Spring Carnival. We rented the wet suits from a local scuba shop. I felt like an X-Men. The water was REALLY cold! I had a really long line and got dunked numerous times.

We Must Make Our Own Happiness

2010-03-22T18:55:00.000-07:00

“Mortality is a precious drop in the bucket of eternity. Why not make each minute pleasant and fulfilling? We must make our own happiness. As President Spencer W. Kimball once said, ‘Happiness does not depend upon what happens outside of you, but on what happens inside of you. It is measured by the spirit with which you meet the problems of life.’ ”

James E. Faust, “A Vision of What We Can Be,” Ensign, Mar. 1996, 10

Book Finished

2010-03-16T19:18:00.000-07:00

I finished another book. I heard about this book from the podcast, The Cricket and Seagull Fireside Chatroom (Dec. 17th entry). I really enjoyed reading this book and it was a quick read. I would recommend this to anyone.

Here is what is on the back:

In Achieving Your Life Mission, Randal Wright guides you through the process of finding and fulfilling those unique tasks that are part of your personal life mission.

You ll learn to:

ask the Lord specific questions
recognize and use your gifts, talents, and strengths
ascertain and overcome your weaknesses
set worthwhile goals
work hard and be consistent
maintain a positive attitude
learn from your mistakes
eliminate procrastination

Using insightful stories from the lives of both ancient and modern prophets, Randal shows how even the most perfect men have their weaknesses. Become the person you promised you would be and begin achieving your life mission today.

Spring Break Day Two

2010-03-16T16:42:00.000-07:00

Sugar Bowl

Spring Break Day One

2010-03-16T16:26:00.000-07:00

My mom and I got pedicures. I also got my haircut.

Thanks Joy! Good luck in NY!

Aloha Festival

2010-03-13T17:27:00.000-07:00

My Dad and I spent a Saturday together. We harvested our carrots and then planted potatoes, corn, peas, beans, and onions.

In the afternoon we went to the Aloha Festival. We saw Adam and Xan's family. While Dad and I ate lunch we got to watch a group of Tongan dancers. It was a blast!

happy note

2010-02-18T18:10:00.000-07:00

love

2010-02-14T18:12:00.000-07:00

Here are some things I love:

Happy Valentine's Day!

BIG update

2010-02-02T22:22:00.000-07:00

Here's what I've been up to:

Reindeer Run

Camelback Hike

Cooking with Mom in our new Christmas aprons made by Whitney

Birthday Dinner at the Gecko Grill

The Frog Princess

Other movies:

Avatar (2x)

Blind Side

Julie and Julia

Shamrock Farms

Sugar Bowl with Margaret

A Quiet Heart

2009-12-06T11:37:00.000-07:00

The Quiet Heart

By: Patricia T. Holland

The title and author of this book caught my interest while at the book store a while back. I've really enjoyed reading it and found strength from it. Here are a few quotes that I love:

"I am blessing him. Be patient with my plan" (pg. 5)

"The kind of contemplation, reflection, and yearning for I am speaking of can't be accomplished very handily in competition with cellular phones, computers, or a blaring TV. God can enter our realm only at our invitation. He stands at the door and knocks always, but someone has to hear that knock and let him enter." (pg 9)

"Please trust lovingly in the goodness of God. He will honor the covenants you have made with him! Glorious and glimmering promises await you if you will but trust in him. You are God's child! He loves you - and he will never stop loving you." (pg. 118)

Climbing Back

2009-12-06T11:17:00.000-07:00

Inspiring.

I've posted about her before.

Today and December 13 she is featured in AZ Republic.

Read it here.

Thanksgiving Week

2009-11-27T21:03:00.000-07:00

Day Six

I am thankful for nature! Today some of my family and I went hiking at South Mountain. I love hiking and being outdoors.

But Alma said unto him: Thou hast had signs enough; will ye tempt your God? Will ye say, Show unto me a sign, when ye have the testimony of ^aall these thy brethren, and also all the holy prophets? The scriptures are laid before thee, yea, and all things denote there is a God; yea, even the ^bearth, and ^call things that are upon the face of it, yea, and its ^dmotion, yea, and also all the ^eplanets which move in their regular form do witness that there is a Supreme Creator.

Alma 30:44

Thanksgiving Week

2009-11-26T11:47:00.000-07:00

Day Five

At the top of my list is my family. They are awesome! I love spending time with them!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Temple Visit

2009-11-25T20:58:00.000-07:00

This school year we had the Wednesday before Thanksgiving off so I went to the temple!

It was wonderful!

Thanksgiving Week

2009-11-25T10:13:00.000-07:00

Day Four

Today I am grateful for my many friends. I've always been blessed with good friends. Whether it was a tea party with Hawaiian punch, high school dance, going to see a movie, laughing together, ward activities, college classes and Jamba Juice, etc. My favorite musical, Wicked, has a song that expresses what I feel for my friends.

I've heard it said

That people come into our lives for a reason

Bringing something we must learn

And we are led

To those who help us most to grow

If we let them

And we help them in return

Well, I don't know if I believe that's true

But I know I'm who I am today

Because I knew you...

It well may be

That we will never meet again

In this lifetime

So let me say before we part

So much of me

Is made of what I learned from you

You'll be with me

Like a handprint on my heart

And now whatever way our stories end

I know you have re-written mine

By being my friend...

Because I knew you...I have been changed for good...

Even though many of my friends have gone off in different paths of their life and I don't see them often enough I am grateful for their friendship and it has made me who I am today.

Thank you!

Please enjoy the pictures and remember that they are just a sampling of pictures.

Thanksgiving Week

2009-11-24T23:05:00.000-07:00

Day Three

I am really grateful for my job! I love what I do! I have my dream job. I have a necklace that says, "Love what you do and do what you love." I can't believe I am in my third year of teaching. Pretty crazy if you ask me (I still feel like a kid myself). Here are some pictures of my with my students (current and former).

Thanksgiving Week

2009-11-23T11:13:00.000-07:00

Day Two

I am thankful for my journals.
I've been writing since middle school and so far I have written in ten. It's so interesting to see how much I've grown in all aspects of my life plus my handwriting. This year I've done really well with writing in it pretty much everyday. Check out the Henry B. Eyring's message below,"to find ways to recognize and remember God's kindness. You will be blessed as you remember what the Lord has done."

Thanksgiving Week

2009-11-22T10:44:00.000-07:00

Day One Each day I am going to post something about gratitude. Today check out the church's website about gratitude.

One thing I am grateful for is my membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
In my scriptures I have this quote by Robert L. Backman,

"Everything I hold dear and precious in my heart, I can trace back to my membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints."

Want to learn more visit here.

Sweet Moments

2009-11-01T09:21:00.000-07:00

It was because she was attentive to the Spirit and had yielded her heart to God. If we are in tune with the Spirit, if we are seeking the Lord and His guidance, if our direction is to return to our Father in Heaven, the sweet moments will come. And we will treasure them, for we have become instruments in the hands of God. See how much we learn and grow when we share with one another our witness that the Lord lives and loves us. As I’ve said before, if I could have one thing happen for each of you, it would be that you feel the love of the Lord in your life daily.

~Bonnie D. Parkin
"Welcome" Del Parson (pictured above)

Happy Halloween

2009-11-01T08:27:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Carving Activity (with some of my students)

Every year I make Golbin Mix and have my students help.

Goblin Mix

Cherrios cereal

Chex cereal

pretzels

Cheetos

M&Ms

Candy Corn

Mix all in a bowl and enjoy! Use any variety you like!

Walking Into A Hug

2009-10-17T08:28:00.000-07:00

The title of this book actually caught my eye. It's a book (workbook) geared towards mothers and gives one tip a week to make your home more embracing. I enjoyed the shortness of each chapter and the advice on each topic. Some of the suggestions I am using in my classroom.

My favorite suggestion: SMILE!

Description taken from Deseret Bookstore:

In Walking into a Hug: 52 Weeks to a Home that's More Embracing, Janene includes one area a week for your family to improve in. Whether it be smiling more often, inviting the Spirit into your home through worthy music, or remembering to laugh, you can create a peaceful, happier home through focusing on these topics. With the understanding of why these things are important, how to accomplish your goals, and journal pages to record your thoughts from the week, you can create a home where each member of your family feels as if he or she is walking into a hug every day.

Fall Break

2009-10-16T16:06:00.000-07:00

Monday 11.12 Today I played with Ray, George, Anabelle, Stella, Claire, and Lucy. FHE was about General Conference. My "favorite" talk was President Monson's about service.

Tuesday 11.13 Today I went to the dentist.

Wednesday 11.14 Mom and I had lunch at Tia Rosa's and went shoe shopping at DSW. I also bought this awesome sign.

Thursday 11.15 I went to the temple and thought everyone was on vacation. It was packed the entire time I was there! Mom and I went to Momentum Salon and had a pedicure and massage. Very relaxing!

Friday 11.16 Walked the dog, went to the gym, cleaned my room, etc.

Photo from 10.15.2009

You are AWESOME!

2009-10-16T15:49:00.001-07:00

Mesa AZ Temple

2009-09-26T11:15:00.000-07:00

Let's go to the CIRCUS!!

2009-09-19T11:06:00.000-07:00

Dad, Mom, Xan, Ray, Anabelle, Stella, Claire, baby Lucy, and I went to the Shrine Circus. We all had a great time! Here are some pictures:

Grandparent's Day

2009-09-13T10:45:00.000-07:00

"early to bed ... early to rise"

2009-08-23T10:10:00.000-07:00

I have had this goal FOREVER. I saw this article and found it very informative. Plus it’s geared towards teachers (thanks NEA). The article gives 5 helpful tips. Here are a few snippets I enjoyed:

Wake up at the same time everyday even on the weekends
Establish a soothing bedtime routine
Get organized (that’s another post and goal altogether)
Watch what – and when -- you eat (another post and goal too but here is a great website)
Get moving
Dear Pure Fitness- I am sorry I’ve been neglecting you for the past couple of weeks. My job keeps me really busy but I do think of you often. I’ll see you soon! Hugs ~Beth

Here’s the link for the full article: Reset your Internal Clock. Enjoy!

Happy Birthday Ray!

2009-08-05T11:19:00.000-07:00

I can't believe you're 10! I love you!

Happy Birthday Stella!

2009-07-31T23:23:00.000-07:00

I love spending time with my family. Today was one of those precious days. We celebrated Stella's 5th birthday by hanging out in the pool and eating hot dogs and hamburgers. I pulled out my digital SLR to practice on my photography skills. Here are some of my favorites. Enjoy!

I love this picture! They are truly that happy when they see each other!

Happy 5th Birthday Stella!

Ritz closes all but 1 of its Valley stores

2009-07-29T18:20:00.001-07:00

What am I going to do? I love this store! Any suggestions would be appreciative.

Ritz closes all but 1 of its Valley stores

Shared via AddThis

Temple with Yellow Flowers

2009-07-28T17:34:00.000-07:00

I dedicate this picture of the handcart company to my own pioneer trek experience. One of the many things I love this about this temple is that each corner represents a different group of saints in the gathering of Israel. Click here to learn more about the other carvings on the temple. Enjoy!

What I've been up to.... (pictures)

2009-07-26T09:12:00.000-07:00

I've been really busy these past couple of weeks. Morgan and Terri came down for a few days as part of a High School graduation for Morgan. I had a blast with them. We ate Special K bars (or as my mom calls them Cereal Candy Delicious Addictive Bars), went swimming, ate lunch, and went to WICKED.

we ate at Arcadia Farms shopped at Domestic Bliss got our butts burned on a BIG pink sofa

ate lunch at Ti a Rosa's

went to Wicked we also ate at Bahama Bucks and In N Out.

For one week my parents and I went to Utah. For the first half we spent time with family on the Dibble and Gregory side and then the second half of our trip we spent time in Zion National Park with they Wiscombe family. We stayed at the beautiful Zion Ponderosa. While there we spent a day in the Park which was beautiful. We also went on a hike called Angel's Landing. I was really nervous about going all the way because the last part we had to use chains but it was worth it. The view was breathtaking and the pictures don't do it justice. I had a great time!

the three trees me and BeccaSeth and Matt Laura and BlakeLaura, me, & Beccatogether after three years always laughingme and WhitneyLaura and me Dave and Margaret me, Whitney, and Alexamazing oven French Toast breakfast (thanks Terri)me and Mo CameronI hiked that! Angel's LandingI made it!Yeah!me and Adamwhat a view! pretty sunflowers AnabelleClaire

Mac fun with Stella

2009-06-26T16:10:00.000-07:00

I am having lots of fun with my new computer and with Stella!