Incredible breakthrough. . .

I just wanted to let you all know that I had an incredible breakthrough with my addiction today.  I was in B&N and the only thing I bought was a book Mitch needed for English.  TA-DA!!!!!  I am so proud of myself.  I may have sniffed some pages, and lovingly stroked some books, but, I held my ground and did not purchase anything new for me.  Technically, I have to read the book I bought for Mitch so when he needs help, I know what he is supposed to know from his reading.  But, the purchase was for him and not me.  I don't know that I am fully cured, but I learned a lot about myself today. 

Sink Reflections

I remember when I first heard about Fly Lady.  I was at home, late at night surfing the internet.  I remember a friend talking about a shiny sink and decided that it couldn't hurt to look it up.  WOW, what a change happened in my life that night.  Jared was out of town, and I sat at the computer bawling as I had the inspired thought that I was not alone and other people did struggle with keeping their house clean and being organized. 

At the time, I had four small children, was constantly exhausted and felt mentally and emotionally drained and overwhelmed.  Whenever I need a pick-me-up, I pull this book off the shelf and realize that "I am not behind" and that "I can do anything for 15 minutes".  Sometimes it takes that reassurance from the pages of a book written by someone who cares and who has been in my shoes to pick me up off the emotional floor and "put on those lace-up shoes". 

I love this book, and always will.  It has given me courage to face what seems like daunting tasks and reassurance that I am not the only idiot who can't seem to keep it together. 

Take Two Chocolates. . .

I have read this book before, but felt like I needed a little sanity and reassurance that I do not suck at everything.  It just feels like it sometimes and you need to read a book that points out that sometimes it sucks and sometimes it doesn't, but either way, you will make it through.  Aside from the title saying it all, I really love Emily Watts. 

August. . .GOAL!!!

I finished the church magazines a couple of weeks ago, but didn't get this post done.  I am almost done with September, but not quite there yet.  I just needed to do this post so I can get a little self-esteem shot in the arm.

The Fire of the Covenant

I have actually read this book several times before.  However, since we were doing the Trek through Martin's Cove with our church youth, I thought I would read it again.  Now that I have actually been to the place and seen the terrain these people were dealing with, it gives me a whole new appreciation for what they accomplished.  I would highly recommend this book if you need a litte reminder of how great we have it!!!

New Monthly Goal

I have decided that I have a new monthly goal. . .we pay for magazines every month that come to us.  I dont' even have to go to the library to have material to read.  But, I never seem to get around to reading these magazines.  So. . .new goal, read the Ensign, New Era and Friend magazines every month.

 This month there were amazing stories and articles in each magazine.  As we are preparing for a Trek to Martin's Cove in Wyoming in about a week, it was very encouraging to read stories of other people who have been on treks.  (Boy, was that something I needed to share with my Young Women--can anyone say inspiration?!?). 

Each month I accomplish this goal I will make a short post with a photo of a soccer ball--GOOOOAAAAL!!!

300 Under 300

This is not really a "book", per se.  But, I have really enjoyed browsing through this book.  All of the recipes in this book are under 300 calories.  Here is a list of some of my favorites (or soon-to-be favorites, once I try them out):

S'more Pancakes

Thanksgiving in a Salad Bowl

Island Time Salad

Rockin' Red Velvet Pancakes

Breakfast Pizza Mexicali

Great Greek Pizza

Grilled Fuji 'n Chick 'Wich
Nacho-rific Stuffed Chicken
'Bella Asada Fajitas
Crunchy Beef Taco Egg Mug
Banana Split Oatmeal
Apple Cinnamon Desert Crepes