Money and Finances: The Beginning

When I married Scott I had no idea what I was in for. We had shared idea's about money and future goals, but we still were not on the same page. I totaled up the money from all of our generous wedding gifts and told Scott that I was ready to go shopping. I wanted a couch, a Kitchen Aide, some new dishes, and some cute decor for our apartment. Imagine my surprise when he looked at me straight in the eyes and told me to  pay off my Student Loan.

Scott has taught me everything I know about Money, Finances and Savings. From the first month of our marriage he has had a goal and a vision for our family; and that is Financial Freedom.


I remember at first, I had a really hard time with this. At twenty-seven years old, I was in a habit of spending the money that I made. Scott wanted to keep track of every dime and talk about all of our purchases, even just grabbing lunch. By the second month of our marriage we had a baby on the way and it was easier for me to see that we really did need to start to prepare. But, it was really hard for me to have a vision of saving money when we barely even had an income.

One day Scott asked me to open up an OFFICIAL savings account. In order to open up a savings account we had to have a minimum of $300.00 in our account at all times. I didn't see how we could scrap up enough money to open a savings account, let-alone keep the money there. But somehow we did.

Scott taught me that "if you spend what you made...you never made anything." This made sense to me. He told me that someone could make $300,000 dollars a year, but if they spent all of it, they never made any money.

The only money you make 

is that which you save.

So, we started saving our money. It was small amounts at first. I think we made $17,000.00 dollars the first year we were married and $5000.00 of it went to pay for the birth of Dylan. So you can see that we lived very humbly.

I was amazed at how quickly our Savings Account started to grow by living frugally and by saving our money.

And now, 8 years later, I think that Scott's vision has become OUR vision. I have learned a lot along the way and I am going to share it with you. It isn't rocket science, but for those of you who might need help in this department, I'm here to help where I can. I always seem to have people asking me about how we have "Gotten Ahead", what we do to save, and how we organize our finances.

The answers are simple.


We have Paid The Lord First.
We have lived Within our means.
We have gone without some of our Wants.
We have had a plan and a vision and we have Stuck to it.
We (Scott) has Worked Really Hard.
We have been on the Same Page.

I am going to break these down over the next month and elaborate on each of these topics.

I hope it helps.

Forget Me Not, by Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Yesterday, I mentioned Elder Uchtdorf's Talk from the General Relief Society Broadcast. I also shared a link to a cute image that you could print to help remind you of his wise counsel. I came across many images that kind women allover the Internet have made available for *FREE*.

{Here} is the LINK to Elder Uchtdorf's Talk

Here are a few more of my favorites.

Pick your favorite and print it out.

Original Image {Here}

Original Image {Here}

Original Image {Here}

Original Image {Here}

Original Image {Here}

Many Original Images {Here}

There are some talented women out there. 

And on behalf of us less talented women...

We THANK YOU!!!

Wednesday: Did You Know?

Did You Know...

1.  Elder Uchtdorf's talk during the Relief Society General Broadcast made me think about the night that I stayed up until 2:00am making a headband for Kate to wear on Easter Sunday. FOOLISH SACRIFICE! But darn cute!!!

(Printable courtesy of lollyjaneboutique)

2. Dylan started a small fire in our house last night. I probably shouldn't have assumed that he would know to put water in his CUP OF NOODLES before putting it in the microwave for 3 minutes. You should smell my house. I'm thinking I might need to buy a new one {HOUSE}. 

3. Thirteen Years ago today I returned home from serving a Full-Time mission to Seattle, Washington. I really can't BELIEVE that it has been 13 years. THIRTEEN YEARS PEOPLE. I'm kind of old.

4. September visiting teaching = 100%. 1 month down...FOREVER TO GO.

5. Kimm came to visit this week. You might remember her from {Here} and {Here}. She is loved by everyone who knows her and I miss her. She lived with me for a year and a half and I keep begging her to move back to Blackfoot, ID. COME BACK KIMM!!!

6. Today Sawyer keeps telling me he wants to play BABY. so I wrap him up in a blanket and tell him to close his eyes. I slowly rock him back and forth and back and forth. He smiles. He kisses my chest. I think he misses being the only baby in the family. I still think of him as my baby. But there are Thomas The Tank Engine Undies and Lightning McQueen Undies in the mail as I type. So he isn't going to be my baby for much longer. He is going to be graduating to the TOILET!!! Wish me luck.

7. I took Dylan to get 5 warts removed today. OUCH. I could tell it was hurting him really bad, but he faced his fears and didn't cry, even though I could see those sweet tears welling up in his eyes. What a cute, WARTY kid.

8.  Scott works really hard. LIKE REALLY HARD. We participated in two parades this last month for ANYTIME FITNESS. {these might get their own post} Being a business owner is the perfect job for Scott, but it comes with a lot of HARD work and DEDICATION. There isn't a day that Scott leaves for work that I am not COMPLETELY grateful that I get to stay home with my children. We made a choice in the early years in our marriage that we would exercise our faith and ask the Lord to provide for us so that we could have a large family, and the Lord has kept his promises to us. Scott has done ALL he can to see that we are provided for and I am amazed at the energy and work ethic he has. I married a pretty AMAZING guy. {and SMART, and CUTE, and NINE! (this is how Sawyer says 'Nice'!) I love you ScottyBuns.

9. Wyatt is SLEEPING in a crib now. Like, FOR REAL. It is AWESOME. Something is so RIGHT about putting the boys to sleep together in their own little room. I can't believe it is actually working. One Week down.

10. Kate Started Dance this week and I am so excited for her. She gets to participate in the most amazing Dance program and she loves it. I am secretly trying not to live my dreams through her, but so far she likes it. A LOT.

October 2011 General Conference Packets: Kids, Youth, Adult

I am so excited for Saturday. I love the Saturday sessions of conference.

Are you excited? 

I have collected some different links to fun activity packets for all ages. I did not create these, I am just sharing the links. I hope that you will take the time to listen to General Conference, and I pray that you will: feel peace from the council of our Leaders, receive answers to your prayers, grow in your testimony of our Savior Jesus Christ, and that your kids will be quiet so that you can hear.

Kids Word Search & Crossword Puzzle's

General Conference Note Taking Packet

Deseret Book Free PDF

Nursery Packet

Junior Primary Packet

Senior Primary Packet

Youth/Adult Conference Notebook

General Conference Journal Page

Primary Conference Notes

Notebook Tabs

Another Kids Packet

Conference Bingo

Conference Coloring Pages

Sunbeam Packet

Another Junior Primary Packet

Another Senior Primary Packet

A few Ideas

Even MORE ideas and a cute coloring page

Have a great Conference Weekend.

I {know} that I will.

Week Three Report and Weigh-In

Week Two Report and Weigh-in 

(Super Sick Edition)

Wow, this past week started out amazing and quickly turned into torture. On Wednesday morning I had so much blood in my urine that it looked like prune juice and the symptoms quickly followed. The week feels like a little bit of a blur. I started anti-biotics on Wednesday and am still taking them. My kidney's have been really sore and I haven't felt like doing anything. My energy has been low and so have my spirits. But, I still pushed through and followed my eating plan and workouts as good as I could. (Normally I would have just totally given up, but this is the NEW ME we are talking about.)


Monday Sept. 19 (With Trainer Lisa)
WE did a lower body weigh workout and she pushed me so hard. My favorite new thing we did was one legged leg press. This was so hard, but so amazing. The next day my entire butt was so sore and tight in the BEST way. Awesome.

Tuesday Sept. 20
Upper Body Weights & Cardio

Wednesday Sept. 21
I started feeling terrible so I just did 20 minutes of Cardio and headed home.

Thursday Sept. 22
Day Off (Sick in bed)

Friday Sept 23
Day Off

Saturday Sept 24
Lower Body Weights. I didn't push as hard as I normally would have but I did my workout and that is what counts. I'm trying to be consistent, regardless of my personal expectations.

Weigh-in Report 

Starting Weight: 168lbs

Last Week Weight: 163.6 lbs 

Current Weight: 162lbs 

This Week's Weight Loss: -1.6lbs (Total shock and amazement. Super happy about this considering.)

Changes I've noticed... 

Physical: Apart from physically being really sick, I am physically starting to feel really strong. I can tell when I pick up the kids that I am stronger. I seem to have more energy and I think that I look a bit thinner. I came down with a cold this morning and rescheduled my workout with Lisa for tomorrow morning. My body is having a hard time fighting off all of these bugs, but I'm pushing through.

Mental: This week has been a big mental battle. Do I workout even though I feel horrible? Is this an excuse that is reasonable, or am I just trying to shirk my workouts? Am I ever going to get better? Am I ever going to reach my goal? Is it worth it? 

Spiritual: This is the one area that has been great this week. I've felt the constant love of my Heavenly Father and Savior. I've felt the reassurance everyday that this is what I am suppose to be doing, that I am overcoming a weakness, and that they are there to help me. I feel safe and secure in this plan of "ours" and know that this is not just what I want for myself, but what they want for me. Only good can come out of losing weight and becoming more fit. I will be better able to fulfill my responsibilities as a wife, mother, and servant of God. I will become less dependent on others and more dependent on myself. I am becoming less idle, and more active. I feel a stronger desire to love those around me, to help others, to feel the spirit and to love my husband (amazing how feeling more attractive helps in that department). I also feel a sense of pride that I am sticking to something, and gratitude that the Lord is making it easier than in has been in the past. 

So keep me in your prayers this week will ya?

I'm looking forward to the day when I am no longer struggling to recover from the nightmare surgery I had earlier this year.

I can really use some prayers.

Thanks.

Sunday Thoughts (And an invitation)

General Relief Society Broadcast

Every time General Conference starts to get close, I start to get so excited about the instruction that I am going to receive. I always wonder what I should do to prepare to get the most out of each of the messages. I've decided that attending the General Relief Society Broadcast with an open heart, is an amazing start.

"Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:

"For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened," (Matthew 7:7-8).

This plaque was displayed at our Relief Society dinner last night. It was made by my neighbor Linda Baldwin and I love the quote by Elder Uchtdorf:

"The desire to create is one of the deepest yearnings of the human soul. No matter our talents, education, backgrounds, or abilities, we each have an inherent wish to create something that did not exist before."

Is this NOT TRUE???? 

I think there are about a BILLION people on Pinterest alone that would fully support it!!!

"if there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report, or praiseworthy, we seek after these things."

I was touched by the messages that were shared last night and left feeling a greater desire to Enjoy LIFE and to Just BE. HAPPY. 

The Sweet Sabbath Day

This morning Dylan came upstairs just as Sawyer was waking up and Sawyer walked up to Dylan and sat down beside him and said, "Hi Di Di!" I couldn't help grabbing my camera and snapping of few of these two.

Church was wonderful today. I took all of your advice and woke up earlier and started the day off better. I felt the spirit in all of my meetings and enjoyed sitting next to Kimm who is visiting for a few days.

I hope you all have a great Sabbath day.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Invitation

I would like to challenge you to start participating in your own Sunday Thoughts. For three years I have watched my dear blog friend Jill share all her knowledge and wisdom. I always wished that I was participating but never put for any effort. So today I am inviting all of you to be like Jill and to post your own Sunday Thoughts.

You will be able to link these posts here and hopefully before long we will have a group of women and men to share our incites with and learn from. A little library of gems and gospel jewels.

All you need to do is click on the link here and enter your Sunday Thoughts URL. If you have any questions about how to link your post please just leave a comment and I will help you.

Please spread the word so that we can find new friends in the gospel.

Friday Night Date

Wow, making an effort really pays off.

It can be so hard to arrange everything so that Scott and I can get away together. We don't have family around and we also have a hard time leaving the kids... because we like them.

But I know that it is important to get out and do something together.

We only had time to go to a show, but it was relaxing and that is exactly what we needed.

I got a good one.

Such A Guy Thing

Really Scott???

Do you notice that little bit of FLESH on the left side of this photo?

 I'm trying to take a cute picture of Wyatt asleep on my bed
and in jumps Scott, pre-shower, to ruin it.

Such a guy thing.

Wednesday: Did You Know?

Did You Know...

1.Sawyer had his first "Real" play date yesterday with our neighbor Maddex. And they even ate Mac and Cheese together. So Cute.

2. Last night was the first time that the baby boys ever shared a room together. It lasted from 8pm-11pm. Wyatt woke up and wanted a feeding and Sawyer woke up when Wyatt cried. I fed Wyatt and then put him back to sleep in the crib, Sawyer crawled into my bed, and Scott headed for the couch. Even though Sawyer was kicking me all night, I still slept so much better without Wyatt in bed with me. Can you believe it has been 7 months and last night was the first time I put Wyatt in a crib. Am I an idiot???

3. We planted 10 new tree's in our backyard this year. 7 of them are Maple Tree's. We now have 17 trees in our yard. A few more years and we are going to have serious piles of leaves in the fall. PARTY!

4. I drove by the church on the way to the gym this morning and the parking lot had 5 missionary vehicles in it and a bunch of Elders with suitcases. This brought back so many good memories of transfer days as a missionary. Except it was usually raining since it was Washington after all.

5. I feel that folding Scott's underwear every week is a true labor of love. I lack in a lot of area's, but this is something that I love to do for him. Who doesn't like a fresh, tidy drawer?

6. I have been playing a lot of trains and cars lately. It is funny how two-year olds do that to you. Just no escaping it.

7. This was my urine sample this morning. There is so much blood in it that it looks like Prune Juice. Unfortunately, I have another UTI and a whole lot of blood in my urine. I'm feeling pretty crappy. The old me would have stayed in bed...but the new me got up and went to the gym. Scott could tell I was a bit down and said, "Erin, you don't have any control over this. It isn't your fault. Focus on what you do have control over." Ever the sensible one. I {heart} him.

8. I got a much needed spirit booster this morning that was unexpected and timed perfectly.

From my Mom:

"Hi sweetie! Love the photos of the kids on the blog.

I also read your one with your weight loss goal. You are so amazing. I just want you to know how much I love and admire you. You are so beautiful no matter what you weigh. Do you know that? I also want YOU to know that  I KNOW how hard of a goal it is. I struggled to lose 9 pounds. And I go up and down. The hardest thing is changing your lifestyle and being consistent with the exercise and the diet. I am terrible at doing anything for more than a week. But I know you can do it and I will support you however I can because I want you to feel happy with yourself. Please know tho, that your value has nothing to do with pounds. Your spirit is so beautiful and loving and kind and generous. It is amazing to me.

I will continue to pray for you. I love you so so so much. How come I am sooo blessed to have you as a daughter? You are my miracle. The only baby that was easy to carry through a pregnancy and you were born in 4 hours. You just couldn’t wait to get into this life and get going! Love love love you soooo much!"

I'm lucky, Right?

9. Last night Kate learned how to peel carrots. She was so pleased about it. Wow, pretty helpful and pretty cute.

10. Scott found this old My Little Pony commercial on YouTube a few weeks ago. I am the one with the ponytails on the right. That was a long time ago. And boy does it remind me of Kate!

Talking With God

I just wanted to quickly share my latest book read.

It is called Talking With God, by Robert L. Millet.

Robert Millet is by far my favorite LIVING Gospel Scholar and I devour everything written by him.

This last book I read on my Kindle while working out at the gym and believe it or not...I really got into it, despite the movement and sweat. I loved it.

It of course discuses the role of Prayer in our lives and there were just so many great Gems.

Highly Recommended.

Handstand Champ

There is a list of things that I am going to do when this extra weight is off and my muscles are back and one of them on the top of the list is reclaiming my title as Handstand Champ.

Scott use to win me once in a while.

 (He thinks that walking on your hands counts. But walking makes it easier, duh. Try holding one babe.)

But now I can barely even do a handstand.

The kids are getting pretty good too.

Nothing like a Sunday Evening Handstand contest.

I will win one.

This is a warning for you Scott.

It is not far distant!

Week Two Report and Weigh-in

Okay, so last week felt like a really good week. I only got to the gym four times which was disappointing, and I had a day where I didn't not eat well, but all-in-all I'm pleased. 

Monday Sept. 12 (With Trainer Lisa) 
Upper Body & HITT
Incline DB press on bench 3 sets 12
DB chest press on ball 3 sets 12
Straight Arm Pull down 3 sets 12 ( I love this one!)
Back Extension 3 sets 20 (Still hate it, but better than last week!)
Rotator Cuff 4 sets 15
Upright Row w/ Barbell 3 sets 12
Sitting REar Fly with DB 3 sets 12
Hammer Curl with DB 3 sets 12
High Cable Curl 3 sets 12
Skullcrusher with DB 3 sets 12
Tricep Kickback w/ DB 3 sets 12

Tuesday Sept. 13  
Lower Body and LSD 20 min.
Walking Lunge 4 sets 10
Leg Press 3 sets 15
Split Squat 3 sets 15 (Hell on Earth)
Plie Squat 3 sets 15
Leg Extension 3 sets 12
Leg Curl 3 sets 12
Hip Abduction Back/Forward 3 sets 10/10
Hip Adduction 3 sets 20

Wednesday Sept. 14
Day Off.

Thursday Sept. 15 
Upper Body and HITT
Chest Press Machine 3 sets 12
Pec Machine 3 sets 12
Lat Pulldown Machine 3 sets 12
Row Machine 3 sets 12
Rotator Cuff 4 sets 15
DB shoulder Press sitting 3 sets 12
Lateral Raise standing DB 3 sets 10
EZ Bar Curl Standing 3 sets 12
Alternating DB Curl sitting 3 sets 12
Tricep Pressdown W/ Bar 3 sets 12
Skullcrushers w/ DB 3 sets 12

Friday Sept. 16
25 minutes HITT

Saturday Sept. 17  
Day Off.

Weigh-in Report  

Starting Weight: 168lbs
Last Week Weight 166 lbs
Current Weight: 163.6lbs
This Week's Weight Loss: -2.4lbs

Changes I've noticed... 

Physical: I still don't physically look different, but I have lost two inches around my waist. I feel tighter everywhere (less jiggly) and I feel SO much stronger. I also was still really sore after my workouts, but it was manageable and not deadly like the first week. I love lifting weights. And Cardio felt amazing this week too, despite having a cough and a cold. Also, no bladder infection this week, so that helps a ton too.

Mental: I did hit a few walls this week. The eating plan I'm on is awesome, but I still had a few moments where I wanted to throw in the towel, and I did on Wednesday. This probably stems from the fact that I didn't get up and work out this morning.  I definitely feel like eating better on the days I worked my butt off. 

Spiritual: I still feel a great peace and assurance that this is what I'm suppose to be doing. I'm not on a crazy diet scheme where I am watching for instant results. I am EARNING the results which feels lasting and rewarding. I feel a stronger desire to help and lift others.

Sunday Thoughts

This morning seemed really rushed and really hectic. I lost my temper with a two year old, I didn't know what to wear, and I felt like I had too much to do, with too little time. I found myself feeling really guilty on the way to church and I kept thinking to myself that I really needed to apologize for being such a crazy mom. But I didn't apologize; I was too busy putting on my mascara.

It is funny how many times I must have thought to myself, why am I doing this? Sheesh, I want to sleep. Please tell me that I'm not the only one that starts their Sunday's like this sometimes. I felt nervous that we had to sing in church and that my lesson wasn't really "that" prepared. I kept wondering if Wyatt was going to have a blow-out right before we were suppose to sing as a family.

I find that Sunday's are like this a lot for me. I try really hard to pray, sing, feel the spirit, and enjoy the Sacrament, but as a mom with four kids I fall short 99.9% of the time. So I feel bad and that I must be doing something wrong, because every other mom has it perfectly together. And you guys do, right? I think we think this about each other because we tend to be so hard on ourselves. And sometimes we do ask "why am I doing this?"  And I think it is okay to ask. Because every time I think this to myself, I am comforted by the sweet assurance that comes from the Holy Ghost, whispering special promises that it will be alright, that I'm doing a good job, and that there is purpose in all of it. 

And maybe our reward doesn't come instantly. And maybe each Sunday isn't earth shattering. But every once in a while I'll get a glimpse of the reward that is waiting.

It is conversations like this that prove to me that our labors do matter. That the fight is worth it. And that we are raising the 'Army of Helaman' for today.

Dylan: Hey mom. Did Jesus get his cool powers after he died?

Me: Actually he had God's special power while he was living on the earth?

Dylan: Well then why didn't he stop the evil men from killing him? He could have stopped them right?

Me: Ya, bud. He could have stopped them.

Dylan: Well then why didn't he stop them mom?

Me: Why do you think he didn't stop them?

Dylan: So that we can live with him again. Because he loves us.

It is moments like this that things seem crystal clear.

And it is moments like this that my Rewards are evident.

Life seems to be rushing by. The kids are growing so quickly, and before I know it, I will be sitting alone, next to Scott in Sacrament meeting, trying to borrow other people's children.

Primary Program: Peterson Family Sings

Well, there is a first for everything. And tomorrow will be the first time the Peterson Family sings in church. We get to sing one of my FAVORITE primary songs. A Child's Prayer. This would be an extremely proud moment if either of my two singing kids could actually carry a tune. So, tonight as you are saying your prayers, remember us because we could use a few prayers.

The Plus side is that I also get to hear my extremely talented husband play the violin in church. It's my one weakness {swoon}.

i {heart} him.

Leggo My Eggo...

Kate Buggy (BoBo) has been cooking all week.

And by cooking I mean taking care of toasting the Eggo's.

It is that kind of week.

I'm not sure why it isn't as fun to cook yummy food when I can't eat it myself.

I'm selfish like that.

I really can't resist how Stinking Cute she looks waiting for the Eggo's to Pop UP.

7 Months Old

Week One Report and Weigh-in (Heaven help me)

This might be SUPER boring for some of you. But I have to do it. I have committed to getting back in shape and feeling YOUNG and ALIVE again (with the goal of course of doing a back hand spring again). So I am checking in so that I can be ACCOUNTABLE. (Ya, who knew!)


Seriously dreading writing this post, but I promised myself that I would...so here it goes.

Operation: Erin Gets Her Sexy Back has begun.

Here is my report for the finish of my first week.

Monday Sept. 5 (With Trainer Lisa)
Upper Body & HITT
Incline DB press on bench  3 sets 12
DB chest press on ball 3 sets 12
Straight Arm Pull down 3 sets 12  ( I love this one!)
Back Extension 3 sets 20 (I HATE this one...Ouch.)
Rotator Cuff 4 sets 15
Upright Row w/ Barbell 3 sets 12
Sitting REar Fly with DB 3 sets 12
Hammer Curl with DB 3 sets 12
High Cable Curl 3 sets 12
Skullcrusher with DB 3 sets 12
Tricep Kickback w/ DB 3 sets 12

Tuesday Sept. 6 (With Trainer Lisa)
Lower Body and LSD 20 min.
Walking Lunge 4 sets 10
Leg Press 3 sets 15
Split Squat 3 sets 15 (Hell on Earth)
Plie Squat 3  sets 15
Leg Extension 3 sets 12
Leg Curl 3 sets 12
Hip Abduction Back/Forward 3 sets 10/10
Hip Adduction 3 sets 20

Wednesday Sept. 7
Just had a Cardio Day

Thursday Sept. 7
Upper Body and HITT
Chest Press Machine 3 sets 12
Pec Machine 3 sets 12
Lat Pulldown Machine 3 sets 12
Row Machine 3 sets 12
Rotator Cuff 4 sets 15
DB shoulder Press sitting 3 sets 12
Lateral Raise standing DB 3 sets 10
EZ Bar Curl Standing 3 sets 12
Alternating DB Curl sitting 3 sets 12
Tricep Pressdown W/ Bar 3 sets 12
Skullcrushers w/ DB 3 sets 12

Friday Sept. 8
Day Off!!!


Saturday Sept. 9
Lower Body and LSD 20 min.
Ball Squat 4 sets 15
Lunges 3 sets 10
Leg Press 3 sets 12
Leg Extension Machine 3 sets 12
Leg Curl machine 3 sets 12
Hip Abduction Back Front 3 sets 10/10
Hip Adduction 3 sets 20 to Burnout

Weigh-in Report (do you know how hard this is?)

Starting Weight: 168lbs  (Darn Vacation for 2 weeks killed me)
Current Weight: 166lbs
Weight Loss: -2lbs (Now that is the right directions. Slow and steady wins the race...Right?)
Body Fat: 38.4% (I will only be reporting this  monthly and yes I actually MEANT to write a 38.4% and         yes I get just how much that is...SHEESH!!!)

Changes I've noticed...

Physical: Well I don't look any different but I feel so much better. Eating healthy is amazing. Even just cutting out Active Carbs after 3pm is making a huge difference. I have been EXTREMELY SORE this week and I am looking forward to the worst of that being over!!! I love how lifting weights makes me feel

Mental: What can I say, Mental game is everything. I have felt really energized and invigorated this week. Anybody can do something for a week right. I have to prove to myself that I can do it until I reach my goal.

Spiritual: I feel amazing. I KNOW that I am suppose to be doing this. I KNOW that I need to get my health back so I can fulfill my calling as a wife, mother and a SERVANT of God. HE has BIG PLANS for me. (My fitness testimony in a nutshell)

There you have it. Week one down.

Visiting Teaching Handouts: September 2011

Well, the month is flying by already. Have you done your Visiting Teaching?

Confession: I have been the worst visiting teacher for the past 5 years. We are talking SERIOUS HIT AND MISS. I am so disappointed in myself. I can't imagine how many opportunities I missed for growth and service.

I am really recommitting myself to getting my Visiting Teaching done.

Here are a few handouts that might help you get yours done too.

I actually have three women who do not allow me to visit them so I used some of these handouts to send as postcards.

I'm so grateful for these READY-TO-GO helps.

Now Go Get Yours Done!!!

A Little Tipsy

VisitingTeaching.Net

MormonMommyBlogs

Pioneer Party and Gift

Visiting Teaching Surprise

Dirty...

Sometimes I clean my kids...

And they are really clean...and they smell so good...and they feel so soft...

And it lasts for about 15 minutes.

Erin's Weekend Salsa

One of my family's favorite things to do on the weekend is eat salsa. We love it.  It doesn't matter what season it is, Scott is always telling me to whip up a batch of salsa.

Let me tell you what is so great about this recipe...

1. The only item that you can't pull out of your pantry or the fridge is the Yellow Onion. Every other item you can keep on hand, no problem.
2. There is no chopping or prep work.
3. For those of you that aren't "chunk" people, this salsa has a great texture and it isn't chunky. You will love it.
4. The best part is that you just throw it into your food processor and Voila!!!

1 can Rotel tomatoes

1 can diced tomatoes

1/3 yellow onion

1-2 Tablespoons sugar

(my recipe card says 1/3 cup because my husband likes a drastic salty and sweet so beware)

1 spoonful jalapenos from a Jar (more for extra kick)

(store jalapenos in fridge after opening, lasts forever)

1/8 tsp. garlic salt

1 tsp cumin

I put all the ingredients straight into my food processor and blend it right up.

That is it.

Chill and Serve!!!

Hope you love it!!!

Emma Kay

Welcome to the world Emma Kay!

I'll be your favorite aunt. (of course!)





Laura and Cody, you did good.

Very good.

Chronic Urinary Tract Infections : Self Urinalysis

Exhibit A

I am writing this post in an effort to help anyone out there that seems to be suffering from chronic urinary tract infections (UTI). Ever since Wyatt was born and my Dr. bisected my bladder, I have had pretty much straight UTI's. It is starting to get really annoying.

Every time I went to the Dr. it was a $30.00 copay and the cultures and tests would cost me extra too. Plus, I had to drive to Idaho Falls (30 minutes away) just to pee in a cup.

Enter Exhibit A: I know what you are all thinking, did she really pee in that green Ikea cup, and if so...are my kids going to be drinking out of that cup the next time we visit? Well, the answer is Yes & Yes. But I promise to sanitize said Green Cup and if you are still worried, feel free to request a Blue, Yellow, Pink or Orange cup. The point is...I finally got smart and Purchased 100 Rapid Response Urinalysis Strips off of eBay for $23.00. Now, whenever I feel symptoms coming on, or in my case I start losing complete control of my bladder {like this morning when I completely wet my pants without the slightest notion that I was going to}, I then can test myself and see if anything is going on.

So today my strip tells me that I have:

• Higher than normal Blood in my urine.
• Higher than normal Protein in my urine.
• Higher than normal Leukocytes in my urine.

So I know now that I need to start my antibiotic that I have on hand. This is also something that I would recommend. Ask you doctor to add refills to your prescription so if you test positive for an infection, you can just refill it and start taking it at onset.

And please use caution if you follow my tips. Online you can find great sources to help you interpret the results of your Urinalysis. But you still should listen to your body and your brain and see a physician if the problem persists. 

Happy Urine!

Anytime Fitness Free Gym Membership!

On Behalf of my {STINKIN' SORE MUSCLES} and because {MISERY LOVES COMPANY} I am going to post a link for a Free Trial Membership at your local Anytime Fitness. 

Once you are on the site just click on the link at the top right of the page that says "get a free gym pass". Enter your zip code and select the closest club. The pass is good for a week, but it will give you the option of linking with your social network and then the pass is extended to a 14 Day Trial Membership. They email the coupon to your email address.

For those of you that don't know, My husband Scott is the owner of two Anytime Fitness clubs here in Southeast Idaho. One in Blackfoot, ID and the other in Shelley, ID. Our clubs are AWESOME.

I am in the process of getting my 'sexy' back and I am working out with a Trainer. Remember this post?

I've momentarily lost all function in my legs.

It is Awesome.

Something that sets Anytime Fitness apart from other clubs is that it cater's to a more Family Friendly enviornment {WE FROWN ON HALF NAKED PEOPLE} and the clubs SHOULD be exceptionally clean with amazing equipment and Cardio Theatre. Oh, and they are open 24/7/365!

So while I haven't visited every Anytime Fitness club in the entire world, I can speak for our two clubs.

And even if you don't want to join a club, feel free to use the club for Two Free Weeks.

You could be built of Lactic Acid just like me.

And now I'm crawling to my bed.

Carinessa II : A Post for LDS Women

Okay women, it is time to say goodbye to DriSilque and to Poly-Cotton blends.

I'm NOT KIDDING. For Real. Good Riddance!!!

And Say hello to Carinessa II

Now, the bottoms have been out for a while, but Stars in Heaven the New Tops are...

Celestial! (No pun intended.)

So pitch your Spanx in the garbage.

Buy yourself some new tops in a:

TALL

and a

SIZE SMALLER.

They will help suck in that baby Tummy and smooth out those Love Handles on the side.

They really are divine.

(You might have to order them on line because they are pretty much sold out everywhere!)

Credit Card Fraud = Horror...American Express Blue = Love.

Last month Dominic Cifarelli  and Morokath Redman used my credit card to rack up over $6000.00 dollars in Airline tickets. I'm sure you can imagine the anxiety and the panic that I felt when I opened up my credit card statement.

Oh.
My.
Word.

It amazes me that people are okay with being so dishonest.

It totally blows my mind.

Maybe they didn't have a good mom like I did who made them walk back into the grocery store at the age of six and return the stolen candy-bar. Or maybe they just need a Bishop that looks them in the eye's every year and asks them if they are honest in ALL their dealings.

I just don't get it.

Needless to say I felt violated.

So I called up American Express to try and resolve the issue and their customer service was EXCELLENT.

Not only did they treat me like I was the victim, they didn't blame me or try to ask me a million questions. They just thanked me for my ongoing membership and took care of it all for me.

Took.
Care.
Of.
It.

People, this really happened. Like, in real life.


They just took care of it for me.

What?

Amazing. And I promise that this is not an advertisement for American Express. But I will be a Member for Life.

AmEx = Love

Liars = Stoopid (with two o's)

PS. I found this crazy lady picture on the web, but I think it kind of looks like me if you don't look to close and if you blur your eyes a little and if the room is dim. ;)

We Have A Winner: $15.00 iTunes Gift Card

The Lucky Winner is...

Melanie Whiting

Mel said " Erin I love your blog! I love "Everything" by Brad Paisley "

So email me your address, or leave it in a comment and the gift card will be on it's way.

Thank you to everyone who participated. It was really fun to see what your all time favorite songs are!!! And the odds of you winning were totally in your favor 1 in 11 isn't bad.  

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

And now I am off to take some Ibuprofen and drink 20 gallons of water. This mornings Training session was lower body and my legs are SCREAMING!!!! Peace Out!

Muscles...

Today I started my first of 17 sessions with the new Trainer we have at the Blackfoot Anytime Fitness. Her name is Lisa and I like her. A lot.

It felt really good to use some of the muscles that I haven't used in a while. And I felt stronger when I left.

I've also been trying to exercise more of my spiritual muscles too. And again, it feels so good to center myself again and to FIND THE SAVIOR in my busy life. I've been reading the scriptures more, and praying more. And I feel stronger when I am done.

I've found myself making a lot of excuses lately. I'm sick. I'm still recovering from the hardest year I've ever had. I have too many things to do. I have to many kids with needs.

But when I actually make the time to strengthen these muscles I feel so much better. So much stronger. So much more prepared to carry the load which is my life.

I'm pretty sure that I will be really sore tomorrow. I guess progress doesn't always feel great and potential might not always feel within reach.

But the love I feel from my Father In Heaven reminds me that the pain, trials, and WORK is worth it.

I feel so blessed to be living this life I am living. And I am grateful to know what I know, and feel what I feel.

And if tomorrow I am a little sore...or A LOT. It will be a great reminder that I am stretching myself in all the right ways. And that I am working towards the potential that HE knows I can reach.

Because I am PURE Potential.

We all are.

Scripture Journals: Just what your Scripture Study might be missing...

A few weeks ago I was reading Jill's blog which is one of my FAVORITE blogs. She is a great blogger and full of humor, honesty, whit, Good Mail, and Spirituality. On her side bar I noticed that she follows a blog called:

The Redheaded Hostess

I visited the site and was blown away with all of the useful information on this blog. The Redheaded Hostess is a beautiful woman who teaches seminary and shares all of her amazing spiritual tools, lessons and incites.

One of my favorite things on her blog is her instructions for how she keeps a Scripture Journal.

It has been since I was a missionary that I have kept track of my notes and scripture jewels. And my scripture studying hasn't been that great since I became a mother. It seems like I use my kids as an excuse a lot.

Believe me, click on these links and you won't feel like you wasted your time. You simply must check out all the great information she has to offer.

What is a Scripture Journal? This link will show you examples of how she keeps her Scripture Journal.

How does She Set up her Scripture Journals? This link is the actual PDF file which shows you how to set up your own Scripture Journal.

All pictures courtesy of The Redheaded Hostess

Do these pictures get you excited about your own spiritual growth and scripture study? I bought my own cute Hot Pink leather Journal and started my scripture journal right away.

Let me know what you think!

Do you keep a Scripture Journal?

Do you have your own way of recording important teachings or incites that you learn?

Are you as inspired by her website as I am?