How to Say NO

I think as a woman, and as an LDS woman there are certain rules of etiquette that apply when being asked to do something.

From the time we attend our first dance we're told you have to say Yes, when in fact we'd rather sit in the bathroom avoiding the Snowball Dance all together. We say Yes of course, and hope it's a short song, and that he's worn deodorant.

Now that I am older and feel like I can say No, it's harder for me to do this. I think too often we think we are Wonder Woman and can take on anything. Whether we're asked to do things for church, our kid's school, work, or our husband's job...the list goes on and on. We can fill our days with volunteer opportunities, church callings, work, just life in general. But I've decided to make a point of weeding out those things that aren't absolutely necessary. My husband and kids are and will always be my #1 priority. And I think I need to make my actions reflect this.

Sorry, if I've used this time to vent a little, but after spending this week in pointless: meetings, trips, classes...I've decided to take action and use my ability to say No now!

Christmas 2008

A Tamale Christmas

My family enjoyed a quiet Christmas here in Guatemala City. It was just our family, and we enjoyed the time together. A traditional holiday meal here in Guatemala consists of tamales, and poncha (a drink much like wassail). Since my husband had tried tamales before and loved them I decided I would embark on this mission! My housekeeper told me how to prepare this meal and what I would need. Then while I was at the store a helpful lady who could tell I was a newbie at this helped me find what I needed. So I tried, and failed! My housekeeper (Carolina), called me Christmas Eve to make sure I didn't need any help, and to see if she could come over and assist! This lady is amazing! I gave up and made something a lot less complicated. The day after Christmas Carolina shows up with a platter of Tamales and a jug of Poncha, mind you she has traveled for about an hour by bus and on foot! I love this woman!

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This is a clip from Easter 2005 in Skopje, Macedonia. Samuel was 2 1/2, and we were having a hard time understanding his vocabulary, as you will tell from the clip. Man do we miss the days of his rantings! Let us know if you're able to decipher what his last words are in the clip.

First Time for Everything

At the request of my husband, and with time allowing, I've decided to start blogging. My kids have too many one-liners that need to be enjoyed by others. So without further adieu, I will commence to capture the essence of my children's brilliance.