Aaahhhh....Retail Therapy!

In spite of the winter weather when it is officially spring, the girls and I headed for St. George. We all felt the need to get out of town for some retail therapy. We met up with Shawn and the kids to celebrate Hannah's upcoming birthday at Iggy's, then shopped again. It is so much fun to shop for anything besides groceries. It is even better when there are great sales, incentives, BOGO deals, and freebies. We found all of the above this weekend. We are staying at the Wiscombe Bed and Breakfast Inn. (Definitely a 5-star hotel!)  We also attended the baptism of niece, Kennedi earlier and enjoyed a BBQ with the Schimbeck clan. The only thing that would make this weekend better is if there was sunshine, Sue, and Evan! The sun is still not shining, and it's quite drizzly outside, but in my little world the sun is shining for today! I love my family so much!

Have I Done Any Good?

Ever have those days when you wonder if you've done any good? It seems I've been having more of those kind of days than I'd care to say lately. My former traits of organization, tidiness, and creativity have been nearly extinct while trying to maintain the aspects of well-being. I'm not complaining, just wishing I could be the wonder woman I always seem to have in mind for myself, even though it is clearly a high and unrealistic expectation. Of all the goals I've accomplished successfully, my greatest is that of being a mother to three beautiful girls who bring great joy in my life. With that, they are also my challenges, heartaches, worries, comforts, and loving reminders that motherhood is the most divine calling I could ever hope to have been blessed with. So.... when I long to be that perfect being that I think exists, I have to step back and look at what a kind and loving Heavenly Father has blessed me with. And that is when I realize nothing else really matters, no nothing.

Abby:  She has such a quiet disposition but with strong determination.  She loves animals and has a special way with them no matter how big or small.  She is athletic, smart, and funny.  We enjoy watching her play basketball and softball.  She has acquired my list making trait and my occasional OCD cleaning trait.  What a joy she is to our family.

Taylor:  She speaks her mind and stands her ground.  Things are either black or white for her.  She is also determined and knows how to get what she wants.  It is entertaining to watch her dance whether its for family night or for a performance.  She has acquired some of my creativity (but more) and the need for things to be equal and fair.  She keeps us in stitches with her unique perception on life.

Whitney:  Our college girl with strong organizational skills.  Keeps her school, work, spiritual and social life balanced with her planner and lists.  She is level-headed for her age and so responsible.  At times, I feel she's more the adult than me.  She can see the silver-lining in any situation and makes the most of everything.  So grateful to have her as an example in our lives.

These girls have so much in common and are yet so diverse in many ways.  They can keep my good traits and make them better. Through their eyes, I am reminded that though the things I do on a daily basis may be small and insignificant, they are the things that matter most. Knowing I am trying to be the mother that He would have me to be helps me to forget my weaknesses and to press on in trying to do good.  Thank you girls for continuously reminding me of things that are right and good in this world!

Aaaaahhhhh...What He/She Said

It is Reading Week at school which means dressing up, guest readers, mystery readers, muffins with moms, donuts with dads, popsicles with the principal, and many other activities all centered around reading.  It is a fun week that is needed this time of year to melt the winter blues and give us the motivation to carry on strong.  I was looking for a particular quote and found one from Dr. Seuss I'd never heard before.  I found some great pearls of wisdom to remind me of what matters most.  Here they are...Enjoy!

Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind. Dr. Seuss

A child can always teach an adult three things: to be happy for no reason, to always be busy with something, and to know how to demand with all his might that which he desires. Paulo Coelho


There is no medicine like hope, no incentive so great, and no tonic so powerful as expectation of something better tomorrow. Orison Marden

When you realize how perfect everything is, you will tilt your head back and laugh at the sky. Buddha

I cannot always control what goes on outside. But I can always control what goes on inside. Wayne Dyer

Just for today, no matter where I am going, or what I am doing, or who I am doing it with, it is my intention to focus on the positive. Lucy MacDonald

Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in, forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day, you shall begin it well and serenely. Ralph Waldo Emerson

Peaceful and Restful Day

In my younger years I thought of Sundays as the most boring day of the week, however, I've grown to appreciate and look forward to this one precious day of the week.  Yesterday was our Stake Conference, and though I was certainly tempted to stay in my nice, warm bed, I knew I needed to be spiritually fed.  I always leave the meetings feeling more hopeful after hearing the words of our leaders, especially when there seems to be unsettling news going on all around our country and world.  I feel uplifted and ready to endure all things, and to rejoice in the small and simple things.  I feel encouraged to strive harder in keeping the commandments and in doing those things which will keep our family from pulling apart in hard times.  I am thankful for the simple things like family dinners, family home evening, gospel discussions, and just having fun together.  Our home and the time we spend together is our refuge from the world; it is so sacred to me.  Sunday is the only day that remains uninterrupted and free of stress.  We came home and discussed the things we had learned over lunch.  After a restful nap, I pulled out past conference talks and reread more encouraging words as I listened to Jenny Phillips' music in the background.  I was rejuvenated to begin another week focusing on the things that matter most and not stressing over the things which do not.  I am thankful for the gentle reminders that help keep me grounded in the gospel and in life.

BFF's

Meet Heidi.  She is my BFF.  Meet Chesnee.  She is Abby's BFF.  Mothers and daughters.  This pic was taken at Mount Vernon when we accompanied our girls to Washington DC.  What a fun trip it was! 

Girls need their BFFs to laugh with, talk with, cry with, shop with, or just to solve all the world's problems or at least put perspective on our own.  I have had many BFFs through all phases of my life.  They bring a lot of joy in celebrating the ups and down of life.  I am thankful to have always had good friends who know all about me and yet still love and accept me inspite of my weakness and oddities.

When my sister, Sue, moved away from Caliente, it was nearly like another death for me.  I had lost my dearest and closest friend.  At that time, I didn't know Heidi too well, other than that she was the best babysitter I'd ever had for my girls.  I soon realized that we had a lot in common.  We both love to shop, to relax in the sun, nap, talk, joke, tease, and laugh A LOT!  We are both teachers and work at the same school which adds to that much more fun during a day.  Our commute to school and back each day gives us plenty of time to reflect on life's serious matters such as what's best for our kids, how to deal with parents, when to color our hair, which accessories look best, who to mess with after 3:00, and so on.  It is our daily "therapy"!

Sometimes, we just can't fit all our discussions in so we have to talk on the phone later on.  I think sometimes our husbands are annoyed with us, but men don't always give us the conversation and attention we need and deserve on a daily basis.  Tomorrow is Nat'l RASK Day...Random Acts of Service and Kindness.  I am thankful to have a friend who is constantly doing random acts of kindness towards me, my family, and many, many others!  Thank you, Heidi!  You're the best!  (It's okay to bring over those cookies anytime!)  

A Valentine Tradition

As long as I've been cooking, I've made sugar cookies for Valentine's Day.  During high school, my friends and I would bake and decorate them together for our friends and/or boyfriends.  As soon as my girls were old enough to stand on a stool and help me, they would roll out the dough, cut hearts with the cookie cutters, and sprinkle the decorations after I'd frost them.  Then we'd  deliver them to teachers, neighbors, home teaching and visiting teaching families, or to a secret someone.  They really got a kick out of this tradition, and it was fun watching their excitement as they stood on doorsteps waiting with anticipation.  So here I am keeping up with tradition once again, only the novelty has worn off for the girls, I'm baking alone this year.  When I taught school in Hildale, UT, the librarian gave me her recipe which has proved to be THE VERY BEST one I've ever tried, so I am typing it below if you'd like to give it a try.  Mmmm. . . they are delicious, soft, puffy and moist without frosting or with!  Enjoy!  Treat your loved ones to some homemade love!

  Cynthia's Sugar Cookies
3 c flour           1 c sugar
1/2 c butter      1/2 c sour creme
1 tsp bkg soda
1 egg
1 tsp vanila
1/4 tsp salt
Mix all ingredients together.  Wrap in cellophane wrap and chill for 30 min before rolling out.
Don't roll any thinner than 1/4".  I like them a bit thicker myself, but they'll stay soft and moist!
Bake at 375 degrees for 7-9 minutes.

Let's Get Physical

For YW's, the girls had planned an 80s exercise activity.  Chicka was all about getting dressed up for the activity, while Abby was still searching for something to wear.  Chicka was a "Maniac on the Floor".  Abby was surprised I knew so much about what to wear.  I reminded her that I had graduated in the prime of the 80s.  She looked at me as if to say, "You're THAT old?!?"  Leg warmers, headbands, side pony tails, "Flashdance" style t-shirts over tank tops, big earrings, and layering completed their look.  They worked out to Richard Simmons and had a great time!  I think they look great!  Maybe I'd be more motivated to work out if I pulled out the old leg warmers and spandex shorts!

Abby and Easton looking more like Jane Fonda and Olivia Newton-John!

Tender Mercies

They are everywhere if you make yourself aware of them.  I had one such tender mercy yesterday.  I was at the Bloomington Wal-Mart looking for a skirt to go to the temple since I'd forgotten mine.  I just needed something quick to go when I got a phone call from my mom.  She told me the new St. George airport will be opening on January 12--the seven year mark of dad's fatal airplane incident.  It was also seven years ago that Sue and I were in the Cedar Wal-Mart when we received the call that Dad's plane was down.  As I heard mom telling me of the grand opening news, I couldn't help but cry tears of joy and gratitude for that tender mercy.  He loved flying the Brasilia aircraft and he loved Lake Powell.  Two of his favorites pictures below!

As I continued to shop I could hear the airplanes flying overhead (that store is in the direct flight pattern) for landings and take offs.  I immediately sent out a text to my family to tell them the news.  My brother texts back:  They should name it after him.  I agreed.  (If only we were filthy rich and could donate lots of money.)  After going to lunch with brother-in-law Shawn, we decided that Dad would be pleased enough if a newspaper stand were made in honor of him with papers from all over the country and, of course, atleast one Nifty Nickel.  He was an avid reader of newspapers no matter where he was traveling, and he firmly believed one should ALWAYS check in the Nifty Nickel when looking to purchase anything!  We joked as a family while making funeral arrangements that we should check the Nifty Nickel for a coffin, because that would please Dad.  Oh how I loved that man!  I am so grateful to have been born of goodly parents who gave me the life lessons and experiences to help shape who I am today.  Thank you, Mom & Dad!  I LOVE YOU!

P.S.  Wal-Mart no longer carries skirts or dresses, in case you're wondering about that! 

My Little Girls

Chicka got a camera for Christmas, so the girls went to the depot to shoot some photos of themselves modeling their favorite accessories and new clothes. Cousin Sydney was staying over, so she joined in the fun. As I looked over their pictures, I was reminded once again that my "little girls" are growing up way too fast. Gone are the days of playing house, kitchen, Barbies, and dress ups. Now they can never have enough clothing, accessories, hair and beauty products, and the latest technology available. I want to stop time or even go back sometimes to relish and savor moments in time. I enjoy them so much, together as well as individually. Nothing else is equivalent to the joy of being a mother!There is never a dull moment when all three are together. Add in the mix a cousin or two and it's even better. They are slipping through my fingers, but I sure do love each season of their lives. So blessed am I!

Going to Girls Camp

Lucky me!  I still get to go to Girls' Camp this next summer!  I was just called to be one of the SYL Leaders!  I am so excited; SYL girls are the bubbles, the happy greeters, the goofy cheerleaders, the more mature examples, the spiritual leaders, the big sisters, the pranksters, the fun each year at camp!  Evan has already agreed to be our chef, so I can focus on other matters.  I get to serve with one of the most amazing ladies in our stake.  I nearly jumped out of my chair with excitement when I was asked to serve.  I've already got my camp ideas turning around in my head.  So much fun!  I LOVE GIRLS' CAMP!

The Stockings Are Hung

It's been a crazy holiday season already and not in the usual way.  It all began the weekend prior to Thanksgiving when the old furnace at Panaca Elementary caught on fire.  Fortunately, no one was there.  School was cancelled for two days for cleaning up the grimy soot which was belched out through the duct work.  What a mess!!  Everything was covered, but we had to clean it up for school to be back in session the following Monday.  Meanwhile, push came to shove with contractors, insurance, administration, and a principal who really looks out for the best interest of his students and faculty--and we were finally granted the powerful "Certification of Occupancy" for our brand new school.  The insurance company came in and completed our work, boxed up our belongings and moved each classroom, one by one, into the new building.  I came home from Thanksgiving in St. George to over 100 boxes in an empty classroom.  It was overwhelming, but what else could we do, but get to work.  We've been in our beautiful new school for a week now and things are slowly getting organized.  We feel so very lucky to have a new school.  There is still so much I need to do to get myself organized, but I am looking forward to Christmas Break when I can rest up and enjoy the simple pleasures of home, holidays, and family.  The whole cleaning up of things covered in ashes and soot has cured me of the traditional entrance for Santa.  I'm totally fine with him using the front door this year!

Our Turkey Turns 15 Today

It was Thanksgiving Day fifteen years ago when I woke up early in the morning with what I thought were contractions.  (It had been over 5 years since having a baby, and nothing had happened naturally then).  I didn't want to wake anyone up, so I showered and tried to go back to sleep.  Still uncomfortable and feeling them nearly 5 minutes apart, I finally called the hospital around 9 am.  The nurse said to get in right away.  Taylor was born around 11:45 am before any of the football games or Thanksgiving dinners were ready.  It was perfect timing and so typical of her little personality.  She still likes to get up early, and time management is of utmost importance to her.  We felt very blessed after such a long span to have a perfectly round little baby in our arms once again.  She reminded me of a butterball turkey when the nurse handed her to me all wrapped up tight.  That evening as everyone had gone back to their houses to enjoy their Thanksgiving dinners, I was left alone to cuddle my new baby.  I had a window in my room looking across to the St. George Temple.  As I looked across and saw it all lit up, I wept with such gratitude and happiness to be so blessed.  Happy Birthday, Taylor aka "Chicka". . . our lives are still so blessed with you in them!

Total Gleeks

Evan and I have become total GLEEKS!  He was hooked last season, but I didn't feel I had time to watch something every week.  Whitney would come home and play the reruns and music from each episode and I enjoyed it.  It almost makes me wish I could go back to high school and perform again.  Sue Sylvester says things that I wish I could say and get away with!  Dinner and homework now revolve around Glee on Tuesday nights!  I guess you could say we're definitely GLEEKS!

Though I have never claimed to have any musical talent, I do enjoy singing for fun.  The first singing group I was a part of was during Jr. High.  Mr. Coleman, our beloved band teacher wanted to start up a mixed choir.  Since there weren't any interested boys, he made a group called Girls Glee.  We sang all the sappy songs girls would cry over like Carpenters, Grease tunes, and Barry Manilow hits.  We had great fun!  Then I tried Chamber Choir in high school which was a lot of fun, but very serious.  At Dixie College, I was in Program Bureau which was completely fun and a welcomed break from the academics.  It was under the direction of Roene DiFiore.  Anyone could join (talent or not) and we never looked at a sheet of music.  Occasionally she'd write words in chalk on the blackboard, but we mostly just sang and caught on to the songs easily since they were catchy and upbeat tunes from long ago.  We performed for college functions, community banquets, care centers, grand openings, weddings, holidays, you name it. . . Program Bureau was there with bells on to entertain.  Many a match was made in Program Bureau!  We all LOVED Mrs. D.  To me, she was one of many people who made my Dixie experience amazing and memorable.

Thank You Veterans

I've been telling my students about Veterans this week in preparation for an essay contest and an assembly.  I remember in my youth seeing Veterans Day Assemblies each year, but not really understanding and certainly not appreciating what they represent.  Evan and I were privileged to chaperone 6th graders twice in the last few years to Arlington Cemetery for decorating headstones of Veterans.  We went in December 2007 with Taylor's class and again in 2009 with Abby's.  I would love to go again to spend more time seeing historic sites.  It was a humbling, sacred, and honorable experience for me.

Taylor looking at thousands of names on Vietnam Wall.

Washington Monument in background.

Taylor in the Korean War Memorial gardens.

Arlington Cemetery-Wreaths Across America

Abby at the Vietnam Wall. (above)

Placing another wreath at Arlington. (below)

My paternal grandfather served in the Army as well as my father and several uncles.  My brother and nephew served in the Marines.  They were some of the fortunate ones who were able to come home to tell of their experiences.  I wish I had pics to post of all of them, but at the time, I only have one representing the Rosie Riveters of the day.

 When I truly think about the sacrifices made by our forefathers and their families for our country's causes, I feel deep gratitude and love for them whether I knew them or not.  I was thinking of my immediate family who have served.  My maternal grandfather served in the Navy while my grandmother became a "Rosie Riveter" helping the cause at home. I am thankful for all Veterans past and present.

Girls Weekend

After talking about it for five years or more, Sue, Dana, Mom and I set a date for a mother-daughter weekend.  We spent the weekend at a spa/resort in Scottsdale, AZ.  It was our first annual Girls Weekend!  It was a wonderful get-a-way for all of us!  Sue flew in from California, Dana from SLC, and Mom and I from Las Vegas.

Day one:  Work-out, breakfast, shopping, lunch, movie, more shopping, and dinner.
Day two:  Spa treatments, pool, sun, lunch, more pool, sun, reading, naps, elegant dining, and another movie.
Day three:  Bicycle rides around the resort, along the rivers and golf course. 
Our four-course meal was delicious.  It was sweet to have a peaceful and quiet dining experience without being in a hurry or wondering when the waiter or food would arrive.  My sisters and mother behaved appropriately as well, so that was a unique dining experience!  (he he....had to through that in)

Thanks to my world traveling sisters, Dana & Sue, I have now discovered two more fun stores for retail therapy.  Sue introduced us to Charming Charlie, a colorful shop for every kind of accessory a girl could ever imagine--in every color and size--at very reasonable prices!  Dana introduced us to LUSH, a delectable shop of all natural bath and body products which are amazing.  Walking in, you'd think you were in a sweets shop.  All the products we tried were incredibly moisturizingvarious (No wonder they have a store in the hot desert of Arizona!) Many of their products are sold by the pound like a fudge shop!   We also shopped at H & M which is about the only store I know where I can still find clothing that my picky girls will like without seeing first!  I bought more for them than anyone else!  Such a mom thing to do! 

Ahhhhh!  89 degree weather in October is like a boost of endorphins straight to my brain!  Loved it!  We visited, laughed, and totally relaxed together.  Is it good for man to be alone?  No, but a little break now and again makes for a strong and lasting marriage!  Same time next year girls, no matter what!!

More Surprises for Bro and Sis Schimbeck

Shock! Surprise! Evan has been released as Scoutmaster after much murmuring and whining! We have been called to serve together as the Ward Nursery Leaders! The last and only time we've served together was 19 years ago while living in Cedar City. We taught a Primary class and loved it. The last time I was in Nursery was when Taylor was a toddler (14 yrs ago). This will be a big change for us, but a fun one. We are both excited to play blocks, cook, read, and many more imaginative games. We want to create a friendly environment where toddlers love to hang out and learn about simple gospel truths while their parents are teaching. Evan is excited about wrestling with the boys and snacktime. I am excited to read to little ones who still want to sit on my lap and hear stories. (I'll have to remind Evan about what's appropriate for church and the age level!)

Future Elementary Teacher

This is Whitney--about 13 years ago--in 2nd grade. We are so proud of her accomplishments at Dixie State College. She is in her first year of the education program and spends each Wednesday in a 2nd grade classroom as part of her practicum experience. I love hearing her stories from the fresh perspective of a new teacher. It's enlightening and reminds me of why I chose this profession for myself. She phoned with good news today. She's been asked to be a note taker for a student in the program who has cerebral palsy. Basically, she'll get paid by the school for taking notes in class which will benefit her classmate as well as herself. What a blessing and opportunity! I've seen her notes; they are beautifully organized, descriptive, and useful. Whitney is such a joy! She is responsible, wise with her money, disciplined with her studies, spiritually balanced, and happy. I am so thankful to have her for a daughter. It seems like yesterday she was in 2nd grade losing her first tooth, and yet she's a mature adult now. We love the weekends when she is home; we all feel complete when we're together as a family!

A Glimpse of Halloween Past

Halloween is here again. Evan and Taylor are usually more excited to get the Fall decorations out and carve pumpkins than the rest of us. (Abby and I get more excited about warm weather months that involve sun and water.) Evan, Taylor and Abby are out deer hunting as I sit here alone tonight blogging, but I'm okay with that! As I reminisce through family scrapbooks, I kind of miss the days when the girls were little and we'd take them out around the neighborhood trick-or-treating. This year, I haven't purchased any candy yet and would rather not work the annual Halloween carnival at the school. I'm tempted to turn all the lights out and not be home, but I don't think I could get away with that where I live.

Meet the New Ward Activities Director

I'm so excited and relieved to finally know what my next church calling is.  Bishop said we needed a "party girl" in this calling.  (He meant that in a good way!)  This is right up there on my top five favorite callings!  The biggest activity of the year, which brings out many members and nonmembers alike, is the annual Christmas dinner.  My wheels are already turning with ideas, decorations, food, and entertainment!  What fun this will be!  I just need to select some "party animals" from our ward to complete a committee and make it awesome!  Sure wish my talented mother-in-law, sisters, and sister-in-laws were in the ward...then it would be a snap!  My motto will be:  Friendly, festive, and fun for all families!

Shakespeare, Schultz, and Student Council

Our little freshman, Taylor, has been very busy lately. We encouraged her to get involved, so she jumped into dance and drama with both feet. She learned leadership skills through student council responsibilities during homecoming week. The annual Renaissance Feast is the Drama Club's entertaining fundraiser. She dressed as a wench and enjoyed serving the guests inspite of flying grapes everywhere!

Not wanting to try out for the play, she was asked to assist and given the title of "Prop Mistress".  She was in charge of keeping track of the props, helping with scenery, and the set up and take down between the scenes.  The play was, "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown".  Cousin Aryn was the co-director and did a great job.  It was a funny play and Taylor enjoyed her experience. 

The Drama Club heads for Las Vegas next week to see Phantom of the Opera.  She is learning to manage her time to keep up with her homework and extra-curricular activities, but she is glad to be focused on dance now.  Aunt Mindy has formed a dance team called Team Elite.  She will have her first performance at the next home football game.  There have been more trips to Panaca this year, but we enjoy seeing her involvement in these areas.