Wise beyond on her years!

I love my niece, she is so smart for a 4 year old. Somedays she says things that are just to grown up! I guess that comes from being the only child amongst Many Adults.
Let me enlighten you with some of her wisdom :)

Today we are heading down the road in the car, when she says" Stace? I said Yeah?
"Stace, I think you are old enough now to get married! I smiled and said" do you think so? Well, Reag, where do you think I could find a Husband??

She said" Well, you just have to find someone you like, and then, you just marry him, that's all you have to do!!!
"THAT'S ALL" I replied, yep, that's actually, what my mom did,!!

So I guess that's all I have to do: find a man, like him, and Viola, HE'S MINE!!
Easy Peasy ;)
I'd do good, to stick with her! She's got it ALL figured out!!
Love you Reagan!!!

BACK AGAIN

WOW- It's Been FOREVER since my last blog post!

Life is busy, so I'll try to cram a quick journal session into a shortish(yes this is a word :) post!

My last post was my broken ankle anniversary, so since then

Piano Man- Nope Piano Woman-- I've signed myself up for Piano Lessons, It's been a dream of mine to play the piano and someday this will not be a dream, it will be a Reality. My piano teacher is someone I've known for years and has taught me to love singing. She was in charge when I joined "The Bush Bronco Singers" when I was in 3rd grade. She is an Amazing piano player and I'm so excited to learn all I can from her and hopefully learn and increase my skill so someday, I will be successful at playing Canon in D.  WAHOO, Yes, I'm that excited!!

I'm no longer the 2nd Counselor in the Relief Society Presidency, which I will say was a heartbreaking day for me, Poor Bishop Walker :). I really truly learned to love the Relief Society program, but most of all, I Love the Sister's in the 4th Ward so much, I've never met so many loving, compassionate and selfless women. Such great examples too me and my life was so blessed serving them and learning from their examples.

This brings me to my new adventure in the Church- Primary 2nd Counselor-
Although I was sad to leave Relief Society, I was excited for this new call. I have always loved Primary and I love the kids in my ward. Nothing makes me smile more inside and out to get a hug or a smile from one of these sweet children, I know that this is where I am supposed to be right now, and I know it's not because the kids need me, but because I need them!! I'm pretty close to knowing ALL their names :)

Hospice- This is a big blessing. Willow is now under the care of Aspen Hospice. I will say I don't know the Nurse, Monica very well, but she has been so great with the Willow and has been so sweet to me. Watching someone that you love, decline is tough.  I love my Willow so Much and can't honestly imagine my life without her, these last few years since I've lived with her, I feel a special bond and every time, I think of the day that she won't be there, makes my heart hurt. I know at times I get frustrated with being a care taker, but I wouldn't trade this time, because someday it will be gone, and I'll only have the memories. Love you Willow

Sink or Swim-  I set a goal for myself this year to learn to Water Ski- Well first you have to know how to swim before you can accomplish this task. Well I can swim sorta, but a friend of mine challenged me to come swim with her in Rigby Lake to conquer my "Open Water Swimming Fear". Growing up in I.F. I have swam in this lake a few times, and it never gets any cleaner :)  so to say that I was grossed out was a correct statement. I entered the water early in the morning wearing Blue tinted Goggles and a Lavender swim cap and a swimsuit of Course! I'm so thankful that there is no photos to show the extreme sexiness of that morning!!  I'll be honest, I stood waist deep in the chilly water, with fear coursing through me. I then took a deep breath( actually several, but who's counting? ) and said a prayer and dove in. I swam and didn't drown. It felt amazing. I also went off a water slide, and for anyone that knows me, this was fear #2 conquered! What a Day!!!  Thanks, Mandy for helping me get through this day :)--  Side Note-- I will have to learn to water ski next year, but I'll be ready!!!

Back to School-  Yep it's that time again. School is back in session. I have worked as a Pre- K aide for 6 yrs now and I love almost everything about this job, minus the Drama, the Snot, the Poop, the Lice, the crying and Riding a freezing cold bus at the Buttcrack of Dawn, where yes, I can see my breathe it's that COLD!!!  I'm so lucky once again, to work with some of the greatest kids on the planet!!!


Health Challenge Mania-  I just finished another Health challenge and although my team didn't win it was a great team, I love these health Challenges and meeting new people and forming friendships from the daily accountability. With that being said, I'm pretty sure I'll die with the new challenge that begins Sept 19th it is 12 weeks!!!  Yes I said 12 Weeks, that is 4 weeks longer and covers Halloween and Thanksgiving!! O Wish Me Luck!! 

Life isn't Fair- Or is It??  I look forward to September, because of the Eastern Idaho State fair. There's just something about being at a place that is SO crowded and smells like cow poop, mixed with Fried foods, mingled with musical talents and rides, and so much more. the last 2 years I have splurged and went on a few rides with Nathan, this is probably my favorite part.

OH BABY--  I will be an Aunt again within the next few weeks!!  I always wanted to be an Aunt and for the last 4 1/2 years I've been one and have Loved it so Much, My niece is the greatest, she's got Spunk and Sass and is sweet as can be. My favorite that she says lately is "Hi Favorite-ist Aunt Stacy"  she is the best Niece ever and I seriously cant wait to hold my little Nephew.  Oh I Love babies, they are just so great!!

Well I'm sure I forget 1 or 2 important details, but I said, I'd keep it shortish :) -- Oops---

SHATTERED

3 years ago today, I went out to dance with my sweet little niece in the rain. It was a perfect night and who could resist playing outside in the rain. I grabbed that sweet girl and headed down the steps and before I even knew what happened I was laying on the steps in agony holding a screaming 1 year old! When I felt myself falling, I knew I had to throw myself back or I would hurt Reagan, so there I am flat on my back, holding my niece wondering how I was going to get help, and not traumatize the baby. As I laid there, trying not to scream out in pain, I prayed to figure things out, I called for help, but nothing! Finally I pulled myself together and lifted Reagan off me and told her to go to the door and get Ashley or Nathan. As I pounded on the house, she caught their attention by crying at the screen door.
Thankfully Reagan was okay physically, mentally I think she was pretty scared, as soon as I knew she was inside and okay, I let the tears pour, I was sobbing, I knew I had broken something! I knew I heard something crack and I prayed it was the stairs, but as I looked down sure enough my ankle was HUGE and all sorts of colors. I have never hurt so bad in my life!! Nathan was outside at that point, with Jacquee and in all the craziness my thought was, Now how was I going to get inside, out of the rain?? Well I crawled/dragged myself up 3 stairs and onto a "wheelie" computer chair, all while sobbing my eyes out. I immediately had Nate grab some ice and began soaking my foot, I hurt everywhere! When I fell, I had hit my head and my back, it all hurt but the pain in my ankle was overpowering all my thoughts, I, to this day think that if I hadn't prayed, I may have gone into shock and been in a bigger mess!
As I sat with my foot in a bucket of ice water, I began to panic!! If I had to go to the hospital, I Hadn't shaved that day and, What Happens if the Dr is Hot??? Priorities!! So I grabbed my electric razor and began shaving my legs, just in case :) Oh what an idiot!
So this whole time my parents and Jordan and Sara, are out on a date enjoying themselves,Without a cellphone!!! About 45 minutes after I fell, dad comes in and asks what's going on, so I told him what Happened and he talked to me for a minute and then went back outside, I knew he was going to go get my mom, well NO he gets back in the car to go get a movie to finish their date. (REALLY??) so they head off to the movie place and as they are driving he says" I think Stacy broke her leg?" I wish I could have been there! Of course mom had him come straight home! "Sorry to mess up date night" anyways they all got back and I started crying all over again, when little Reagan, told her mom, " Stacy, Owie, fell down, and then she started crying! Poor Girl! So after some talk and some drugs, I had convinced myself that it Simply couldn't be broken because #1- I didn't have insurance and #2  I Hate the thought of Dr's!!
To make this extremely long story, shorter I waited almost a week, and during this time, just played like it was sprained!!(once again, IDIOT) I got around on crutches and that amazing wheelie computer chair!
After listening to a friend say "you just have to bite your tongue and walk, "if it's sprained"I decided to do just that! OH MY GOSH! Worst Idea Ever!(are you convinced that I'm an Idiot??) I walked 8 steps with Ashley on one side and Nathan on the other,basically holding me up, and I cried the Whole time! After this I Knew I had to go into the Dr. So I headed to Urgent care and sure enough, it was Shattered! of course they couldn't fix it, So off to a Bone specialist I went, I have never been very coordinated, so me on crutches Was Not Pretty! As I Hobbled through the door to Dr. West's office, I was Horrified to see my neighbor(the Bishop's wife) with all her kids, she looked sick to see me like this! I was just so embarrassed that anyone had to see me at all!
I was immediately scheduled for surgery and after several hours of prep I headed in to surgery, I was in tears! Surgery and Doctors are Scary too me! It took several hours and then I was done! I ended up having to stay overnight because the surgery took longer and was more extensive than they thought! I am now the proud new owner of a ankle Full of Hardware! They cut my ankle open in three places to repair it, and placed 2 plates, 2 pins and 11 screws to hold it all together. Oh My Painful!!

2 days after

Soaking- 15 min ice-15 min hot

Showering- What a Nightmare :{

Headed to get the Cast on

Time to see the damage

Nasty

28 staples in all

Still so swollen

almost ready

sexy right??

This was so incredibly painful. Pushing down to get the ankle in place so it would heal right

Cast Protector- Ugliest Ever!!!

                  FUN TIMES!! I'LL NEVER FORGET 08-08-08

PATIENCE

Patience-- this word is slightly irritating to me right now. Because it's after 1 am and I'm am Patientely waiting for my mind to relax so I can drift off into a Deep sleep. This sleep thing has gotten really frustrating lately. I feel like my mind just goes 90 miles an hour and I can't seem to shut it down lately. I am exhausted!! In fact twice this week I've taken afternoon naps, because of my lack of sleep. I also fell asleep in the shower the other night and was awakened by Cold water. Brr :(
So tonight I'll share a quote from a very wise man, that has really had me thinking during all my sleepless nights recently..

Patience means accepting that which cannot be changed and facing it with courage, grace, and faith. It means being “willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon [us], even as a child doth submit to his father.” Ultimately, patience means being “firm and steadfast, and immovable in keeping the commandments of the Lord” every hour of every day, even when it is hard to do so.

This statement is really Hard for me to comprehend and at the same time so simple. If we are willing to become humble and realize that without Christ's help, life is IMPOSSIBLE,and if we
patiently wait for answers to prayers,and the divine help that we need to make it through
life, our lives will be so blessed. Sometimes such a hard thing to even imagine!
I know that learning to be Patienct wih ourselves is probably one of the hardest things, because we are sometimes, our own worst enemies and we fail at seeing what others see. But more importantly we fail to see what the Lord see's and I'm sure it would hurt him to know that we don't see the potential and arn't willing to give our best efforts in being steadfast and immovable.

This whole article is amazing and I encourage you to read it. It really has made me think!!
Lds.Org -Continue in patience -by Elder UcHtdorf.

MUSIC

I Love Music!
Music is something that is calming and blocks out many thoughts!
I enjoy Variety, I even like listening to rap( a little Eminem is good for everyone), and I like it LOUD. My mom hates it, but that's why I have headphones :)
I have some favorites that I could listen to All day!
Right now I'm hooked on these songs

AUGUST ALREADY???

Can You Believe It?? Because I CAN NOT!!
Where has the Summer Gone? I wish I had a list to prove that my summer has been filled with exciting things and Vacations, sorry there is No such list.
Don't get me wrong, it's been a nice vacation to accomplish things that needed done, but I wish I had the means to just take off on a plane ride to, Well Any ware!!!
I'm excited to get back to a consistent schedule, and try to figure things out once and for all, and by that I mean, maybe for one week :)
I went to a play awhile back to support a friend, this Play was none other than the popular Willy Wonka, this is one very annoying movie, that I Absolutely Love, so I enjoyed the play, but there was a song that has Haunted me since then, called "THINK POSITIVE!!"  Dumbest song ever, okay maybe not the dumbest, but it has stuck with me, and often times, reminds me of just that! The fact that I need a more positive outlook on life!  Sometimes life just seems, Blah, and I get down and think that my life should be better, I deserve Better?? Right??  Well recently, I've done some thinking, and I have finally realized that, this is Totally up to me and No One Else, the happiness part. I can only be as happy as I make up my mind to be.  I can't be discouraged that I'm not married, if I sit around waiting and hoping that Prince Charming will come searching for me, and toss some rocks at my window, because let's face it, that would just be terrifying, and creepy and that kind of stuff only happens in fairy tales, which I have come to realize, that as Magical as they may seem, they are Just So Far From Real Life :), so if I want true Love, I guess I'm going to have to make some effort, and if I want a College Degree, I can't sit at the Computer hoping that someone will fill in the appropriate applications and then show up to class for me. unless there are any takers???  Because that would just be so great :)

So I guess what I'm trying to say is E-Harmony.com here I come :)
I'll keep ya posted on how that goes!! ha ha

I guess I should get off here and fill August full of fun adventures, before it's back to school and SNOW!!

ABC's

This week as I was out and about, What did I see at the stores?    SCHOOL SUPPLIES, Yes, that's right Pencils and Crayons and Rulers, OH MY!-(Yep I'm A dork) I started thinking about School and Learning and all that good stuff, well that got me thinking about the things I've Learned this week, and I was surprised at all the things that came to my mind.

 I will share my insights on what I've Learned or Re learned.

I am grateful for Family time
There is Nothing wrong with asking for help
I hate wearing a Swimsuit
I Absolutely Love everything Fireworks
Watermelon is Delicious
I can't draw Ladybugs the right way. Sorry Avery
That when I yell or get angry with people in public, I'm embarrassed and dwell on it for days
Life isn't easy, and that's okay
Crying is for Babies.When your big, it just gives you a headache and makes your face a Mess
Friends are Essential
Chocolate is a Necessary part of life
Babies are Precious
Exercise does not make me Smile
Talking in Public, will Never be a strong point for me
Clorox will ruin your favorite shirt, if given the chance
Trust takes time
Fresh Peaches are my favorite.. Again.  How did I possibly forget that one?
I'm Selfish and need to work on this area of life
Health Challenges are hard, when you NEED Chocolate
I could easily be pressured into Almost Anything. Kinda Scary
I can't wait for Harry Potter, and am pretty SAD that This is it
Chilling in a Hammock could be my new Favorite thing.
The Ensign has articles that could save lives
Swimming with 8 people in a small pool is less fun than swimming by myself
Gardening is fun, but pulling weeds, Stinks. I should train the rabbits 2 eat weeds, not my Veggies
Sometimes Prayer is the ONLY way to get through
I wish I could go to Girls Camp. I Love that place

Everyday there is a lesson to be learned, Even if it's something we have learned several times in our lives, we are given, people, examples, lessons, trials, joy, experiences, fear, peace and comfort, to make us better, stronger, and more trusting individuals. I know that sometimes, I forget this important lesson, and get caught up in the worldly things of life, but I know that everyday is a new day, and it should be filled with all kinds of learning experiences to makes us who we are.

TESTIMONY

What is a Testimony?
Well this has been the question on my mind lately.  This Sunday, I get the Opportunity to teach a Lesson on Testimonies in Relief Society.
I have never been comfortable getting up and speaking in public, In fact it Terrifies me. I Literally make myself sick worrying about it.
Well this week has been No different, reading articles and preparing, except the fact that I have been questioning where my Testimony is at.
I know that I have a Testimony, but sometimes I wonder, how I can be better, so that my testimony will be stronger and I will "feel" it more.
I'm not sure that I have ever been able to stand and bear my Testimony in public without getting emotional, because the things that my Testimony are based on, are some of the most important things in my life, and I know my life would be so different without them.
So What is a Testimony?

A testimony is a spiritual witness given by the Holy Ghost. The foundation of a testimony is the knowledge that Heavenly Father lives and loves His children; that Jesus Christ lives, that He is the Son of God, and that He carried out the infinite Atonement; that Joseph Smith is the prophet of God who was called to restore the gospel; that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the Savior's true Church on the earth; and that the Church is led by a living prophet today. With this foundation, a testimony grows to include all principles of the gospel.

I'm so thankful for parents who raised me in the Gospel, and who taught me the importance of staying close to the Savior. I have a Testimony of the prophet Joseph Smith, he is an Amazing man, who at such a young age, did things that I'm not sure I would have the courage to do at any point in my life. I'm so thankful for the Scriptures, and as I take the time to study, my understanding grows, and I feel Safe.
My life would be so different without the Understanding of the Atonement, and the opportunity that it provides me to repent and come closer to Christ. The Sacrifices that have been made so I can return to Him, help me want to be a Better person.
I have a Testimony of the Priesthood and the Blessings that come as we follow the counsel of Priesthood leaders, who love us and are concerned for our well being.
I know that as I continue to do good, and try harder daily to be better, that my Understanding of "my" Testimony will increase. I'm so thankful to be a member of the church and to know these things for myself. I know that God Lives and he Love me, and I know that as I continue to learn and grow in the Gospel, my Testimony will be strengthened.

Here is a great article to read from a President. Henry B Eyring- A Living Testimony(lds.org) Sorry, if I was smarter, I'd post the link, but I couldn't figure it out :)

Dear Intex

To Whom it May concern,
I am Extremely Dissatisfied with my recent experience with your products. On Saturday(6/18) I bought an Intex 15x48" metal frame above ground pool.
Shortly after getting it home and after taking all measures to make it a successful experience. we set the pool up,  After filling the almost 5,000 gallon pool, we noticed a defect in the side wall of this pool and it was leaking. Imagine my Frustration!! I called Walmart and spoke to a manager and was told we could exchange it for the same pool, having purchased other products from Intex, I felt good about this exchange. I have never been so messed around and frustrated by a store, which I know is not your fault, but I was still angry inside about all the time and work it took to set up and fill the pool just to have to take it all apart.I didn't expect them to bend over backward to make things right, but it sure would have been nice if they had tried to do something to make me feel better about the situation. After 45 minutes of waiting we did the exchange and headed home. That night we set up our new pool and checked it for holes, and defects. After we had filled over 3/4 of the new pool we noticed it was leaking from a seam in the bottom. Could this seriously be possible??  Well it definitely was. Once again I called Wal mart and made a complaint about the situation!!
Like I mentioned before I have purchased products from Intex in the past and have been fairly happy, so this is a Huge Disappointment that not only did we have major problems with one pool, we had problems with 2. Another frustrating thing that happened, was we put the cover on to keep debris from falling in, and noticed a tear near one of the pre-cut holes in the pool cover, it was not a big tear, but none the less it was torn. All in all this has been a terrible experience with the Intex product. I have no plans of Ever purchasing anything again from your company.
Stacy Chandler

DEAR WAL-MART

To Whom it May Concern,
 I am Extremely Dissatisfied with my recent experience at Wal-mart. On Saturday(6/18) I bought an Intex 15x48" metal frame above ground pool.
Shortly after getting it home we set the pool up, after taking all measures to make it a successful set-up. After filling the almost 5,000 gallon pool, we noticed a defect in the top of this pool and it was leaking. Imagine my Frustration!! Well I called Walmart and spoke to an Assistant Manager named Melissa who reassured me that I could exchange the pool and that the next day(after having to drain all the water) I would be able to go to Customer Service and a pool would be waiting so we would not have to be messed around waiting for the exchange. Well Much to my surprise and disappointment, the pool was Not there and No one knew what was going on! So what was supposed to be a quick and Easy exchange turned into a 45 minute wait for a stock man to find the right pool and bring it from the backroom upfront. In the meantime I was frustrated about the situation and the wait, to then, be told by the Customer Service worker in a condescending way, To Just Be Patient!! ARE YOU KIDDING ME?? I tried to remain patient, but this should have never happened. Well it gets worse! We returned home to set up the new pool and were shocked to see that this brand new pool liner had a hole near the seam at the bottom! After calling and speaking with another Assistant manager who was not very helpful,. We have decided to make a return on this and support some other store and hope for a better experience all around!  What happened to "guaranteed satisfaction with what you buy; friendly, knowledgeable service;  a pleasant shopping experience?"  This is so Extremely far from my 2 most recent experiences at Wal-mart!

Grandmother Willow

I've been thinking A lot about my Sweet Grandmother and How Lucky I am to have her in my life! She will probably never see this post, but I thought I'd Write some things about this Great Lady, so I will never forget the good times!

 Dear Grandmother Willow,
You probably don't even know that I call you this, but when I decided that I would make the move to your home to help care for you, I changed your name  from "Grandma" to WILLOW!

Just F.Y.I. -Grandmother Willow is a Slightly Creepy looking, talking tree from the Disney movie, Pocahontas, but the reason you have received this special name is because, she is a Very Wise Woman, just like You!!

Willow you have always been a great lady in my eyes, I'm so Thankful for my time spent with you, all these years!

Somethings I remember from my childhood.

    Playing- I remember playing at your house when I was a little girl and spending a lot of   time with you and Grandpa.  I loved Playing the baby animal matching game and doing the Map puzzle,  I also loved listening to you tell stories of "the Farm" and all your Pets. and Watching Movies with  you! Playing the piano was also something I could watch you do for days, Such a talent, and one I hope to have someday.

Hair- I remember sitting on the couch as a little girl as you brushed my hair, and then I would brush your long beautiful hair. I used to love that, and I still love having people play with my hair to this day. I will Never forget coming over and seeing you without your Wig, for the 1st time, and I was Terrified that some Stranger was hanging your wash out to dry!!  I now have the chance to brush and fix your silvery white hair and I still enjoy it!

"Grandma Parties" were always a time for us to feel special! I remember all the fun things you planned for each of us, and how much fun all the cousins had spending time together and just being with Grandma!

Fishing! I remember that Fishing and being out with the Bugs was Not your Favorite, but you still came sometimes, and would spend time with the "cold, Dirty kids" in the car! Those were always fun trips, maybe you would disagree?

Kittens-   Cats and Kittens EVERYWHERE! I loved those baby kittens as a kid, they were so fun to carry around and pretend that they were my little babies! I grew up not being much of a cat person, until I adopted the 3 kittens and brought them home last year, I Loved Callie and her Kitties, and Prince Michael and Olive loved being Spoiled by you and somehow wormed their way onto your couch on more occasions than one!! Sorry Grandpa :)

Holidays- I have always been lucky to live by one set of Grandparents. I love the Holiday traditions that we as a family have enjoyed All the years growing up and I look forward to adding some of these traditions to my own family someday. Some of my Faves- Christmas Nativity and singing after,the last few years have gotten a little more eventful, but we always have a great time. Memorial day, grave decorating and BBQ,  4th of July Parade, BBQ and Fireworks. I love spending holidays with you and the Family.

Scriptures and Prayers- I have enjoyed the quiet times, reading scriptures and saying prayers with you. You have such a sweet spirit and I'm so blessed to have been able to have some of these special memories with you!

Laughing and Joking- Oh Willow, You are a Funny One!! You say some of the craziest things, and quite simply, some of them keep me laughing for days!
I'm so lucky to have been able to spend some quality time with you, and see this side of you that some people have never seen and probably wouldn't believe me even if I told them!!! Good Times :)

Willow, I hope you know, Just how much I love you! I feel pretty lucky to have had this time with you, and to have you as my "Willow" and have benefited from your sweet and loving Spirit. Your are someone who I look to and am so thankful that Heavenly Father has blessed my life by giving me one of the Best Grandma's in the world!

Disclaimer** From this post, it may seem as if Willow has gone to a better place, but No! She is Alive and Well, and I'll continue to make memories to add to this list, as time goes on :)

Life is what happens to you, while you're busy making other plans.

When I was younger I used to dream of the day when I would be All Grown Up and Successful, like one of those famous Women on the Big Screen, You know the ones, Beautiful, with the perfect home, perfect man, perfect family, dream car, ya know the one, Who Had It All, Or so I thought in my Naive little mind!!

Well as I grew up, I realized that Life was NOTHING like this.  I'm not a downer usually, but I know now that life is Not At All Like The Movies! I know that there are parts of life that can be almost perfect, and I feel pretty blessed with how my life is.   I set some goals for myself before I turned the Big 30 and Guess What?? Most of them Did NOT Happen, I was disappointed in myself for awhile and then I realized that although I may have felt it, My life was NOT over at 30!! So Now I added those goals to "My Bucket List"

Here's a Sneak Peak of My Ever Growing Bucket List!

Find a Job I Love**

Graduate from College

Get to  my Dream Goal Weight

Run a 5k without Stopping

Go to England

Learn to be more Humble

Make a Professional looking cake

Swim in the Ocean**

Travel the World
Get a Massage**

Go to the Barnum & Bailey's and Ringling Brother's Circus

Go to the Temple Monthly for one year

Buy and Drive :) a Jeep Liberty Sport

Become a Mother
Finish my Louisiana Scrapbook

Meet my Mom's Family

Learn to Water Ski
Play the Flute really good

Wear a Freaking Cute bathing suit in public Without a Shirt!

Learn to control my Emotions

Marry "my" Perfect Man

Speak in public without "shaking"

Sleep under the stars without a tent

Learn to really trust

Go to Disneyland

Serve a Mission with my Husband
Organize my Craft stuff  so I can craft ,When ever I want and be able to find what I need :)
Do a Session at the Baton Rouge La Temple
Be Brave
Go on an African Safari
Go on the Terror Ride at Lagoon With my eyes OPEN for the Whole Ride
Master the Sewing Machine
Be More Consistent in putting others first
Make it to the Celestial Kingdom (I guess that's After I kick the Bucket!! ha ha)

I had Better get my butt in gear, I've got a lot to do before I die, Which hopefully is not too soon :)

**- Accomplished

Dear Mr. Benjamin Franklin,
I feel like I need to let you in on a little secret. I think I Love You!! Okay maybe that's a little(Or A Lot) Creepy. "Frankly" you are Not my type, but I'm seriously so happy when I have one of you tucked nicely in my Pocket. Who says money can't buy happiness??  I may just disagree here!! I'm kinda shallow, I know!! But I need to tell you just one more thing. I think my love for you, grew just a little more when I stumbled upon this quote last night, in the most unlikely of places, Facebook!!

"While we may not be able to control all that happens to us, we can control what happens inside us."  Benjamin Franklin

Thank You for being such a Wise Man
Love Your Admirer,
 Stacy

BIG BONES

Big Boned!!  I Absolutely HATE this saying ,when it comes to people's Weight, Especially my own. Who wants to hear that they " Are Pleasantly Plump or BIG BONED"?! I sure didn't want to, BUT

I've been doing some thinking lately and for almost a month, I have been Really emotional. Life with Willow (Grandma) has been Less than fun, and I have had so many emotions running through my head. I LOVE Willow So Much and have been so thankful for the good times, and the laughs, I know someday, I'll look back and be so grateful for ALL my time spent with her, even the less than glamorous times! Are you wondering where I'm Going with the Bones??    

This past 2 weeks, have become way more physical, when it comes to caring for Willow. She has become really dependant and is needing A lot of Physical help, It is Exhausting and I am honestly beat. I have cried so much, because I feel physically, mentally and emotionally tired, and I wish I could do more, but I can't!! It's so hard to feel like you are Failing the one person who counts on you!!
Anyways back to the Bones, I know that if I Didn't have these Big Bones, I would Not be able to do the things that are required of me at this point in the game, so because I'm trying to find the positive in the current situation, I am Grateful that I have Big Strong Bones, so I can lift and help the Willow out where she needs!!  Love Ya Willow

A Few Of My Favorite Things!! Ok Maybe more than a few

Well to Begin I Love the Sound of Music and this song and I secretly wish I was a Von Trapp Family singer :)
I thought it'd be fun to list some of my Favorite things today, instead of taking a much needed Sunday Nap!
 Here goes in No particular order
* Chocolate, Especially English Choc -YUM
*My Niece- She makes me smile so much, and I can't wait to meet her Baby BROTHER :) :)
*White Chip Macadamia Nut cookies from Subway
*Dirty Dancing the Original- I Love You-Patrick Swayze!!
*My Family- I'm so Lucky- Shh- they are pretty Lucky too :)
*Otter Pops- Pink, Blue and Orange- OK Green too, just not red!
*Music- current faves-Rolling in the Deep(Adele) Price tag(Jessie J & B.o.B) Lazy Song(Bruno Mars) Friday(Glee Version) Jar of Hearts & Bang Bang Bang(Christina Perri) Just to name a few
* Mowing the Lawn and how great it looks and smells afterward
*Tanning
*Girls Camp- Oh the Memories. Can you say "Chubby Bunny??" I CAN
*Glee
*Pink-Anything and Everything- Except my Meat!!
*Lemonberry Slush's from Sonic
*Massages
*Holidays spent with Family
* Burping LOUD- Oh I know "Not Very Ladylike"- Who Say's I'm trying to be Ladylike??
*Friends- They make life, so much better
*Fishing and and eating fried chicken with worm guts on my hands :) My Grandpa taught me it's OKAY
* Being Crafty
*BAKING- Something I absolutely LOVE
*Working with Special Needs Kids
*Playing Board games
*Dandelions
*Testimony Meetings around the Fire
*Peas from the Garden- Never Cooked, Just Fresh
*President. Hinckley & David B. Haight- 2 of my All time Favorite Men, and my new Favorites Elder. Jeffery R. Holland and Elder. David A Bednar- The rest are pretty great as well
* Holding soft squishy Babies
*Swimming & SUMMERTIME!!
*BBQ's
* Smelling Spring Blossoms
*Remember the Titans & The Blindside
*Jamba Juice- Caribbean Passion
* My Cell Phone- I'd be Lost without it. Sad but true
*My Chacos & Painted Toenails
*Thunderstorms & Someday Kissing in the Rain(maybe it's not as Romantic as it seems!!) I'll let ya know:)
*Grey's Anatomy & Biggest Loser
* Camping and Roasting Starbursts and Cinnamon Bears and Marshmallows all seperate of Course
* Feeling Safe
* Singing at the top of my Lungs- EVEN if I sound Like a Goat!! 
*Laughing until I Cry or Pee- Eww that has Never Happened : /
* Reading Scriptures and understanding them! Doesn't happen enough :(
* Acting Crazy
*What about Bob? The Ghost and Mr. Chicken and Mr. Boogedy
* Missionary Homecoming's
* Accomplishing hard things
* Church Leaders
* Party Planning
*Chick Flicks
*Making & Eating Cheesecake

Okay I think I could go on but I'll stop!! This was pretty fun to see how Blessed I am

THE ONLY THING WE HAVE TO FEAR, IS FEAR ITSELF

I Hate Fear, I hate how it freezes me! Silly statemnet, but it's so very True.
I have so many things that I would Love to do in this Life, and I don't because I let Fear stand in my way.
I've been thinking how many things I have passed up, because I was afraid for some reason or another.
I want to feel free. Sometimes I feel trapped and am not sure how to push through "My Fear Barrier"
I'm shy and awkward when I meet people, and have been told that I came across as unfriendly! I feel bad because that's not me, I Love people and learning about them, and becoming close friends. Friends are so important to me. They make my life Happy.
One of the things I have pushed aside is College
I am going to start the process soon to enroll ! I'm Terrified, but it's something I have wanted and needed to do For Years. I was crushed last week to find out that I didn't get my Summer position. I wanted it, I Needed it, But I have to know that Heavenly Father will look after me. He Always does :)
I know that I fear failure of enrolling in school, but if I fail, then at least I gave it my best shot.
Life is about taking chances and jumping back up, when you fall down.
So here goes my first step of looking Fear in the face and plowing through that wall!

My New Fav

BAD GUYS

Today at school I learned a little bit about "Bad Guys"and Kidnappers from a Pre-School Perspective.

I love the kids that I work with and have learned so much from them, and I've also had to sit back and listen without Laughing, and anybody that knows me even a little, knows I'm not real Mature, and once I start laughing, I Really have a hard time pulling it together. This was one of those times :)

There I was sitting at breakfast eating my yogurt, minding my own business and this little boy stopped in his tracks and asked me  "if I knew about kidnappers? I said "please eat your breakfast" (Rude, right?) Anyways he persisted, "Well do ya? I said, kidnappers are scary and I stay far away from them.  he said "Well my brother told me, Kidnappers eat yogurt and So you Must be a kidnapper!! I about choked on my yogurt. It was hilarious, I seriously about peed my pants!

He then informed me of multiple other things that these Yogurt eating bad guys do, and he was dead serious!

They hide under beds, they steal backpacks(probably looking for yogurt) they take kids far away and leave them there, they have big eyes and eat rocks and worst of ALL they "toot fire" his words, not mine. HA HA

Just want you all to have fair warning, so you can look out for these bad guys. They sound pretty frightening to me, and I'm pretty darn sure, I'll never be able to eat yogurt again without thinking of Bad guys.

Gosh I Love that Kid!

High 5

The health challenge has begun and it's been good to have something to focus my attention on.
I'm so excited that week 1 is over.  It's been good, done a little Biggest Loser, Wii Dancing, Yard work and other misc stuff to stay active. Drank gallons of water, and I've Eaten a garden full of Fruits and Veggies.
These Challenges have really helped me focus on my health and have made me think more about how and what I need to do to change my bad habits.
I have worked hard and am feeling tired, but I have almost lost 5 Pd's!!!  SO  EXCITED and can't wait to see what will happen the rest of the week!
Oh and did I mention how excited I am for my "Sweets" day??  I CAN'T WAIT!!!
Bring on the Cadbury eggs! YUMMY :)

Withdrawls

IT"S ONLY DAY 3 of the Health challenge and I WANT/NEED CHOCOLATE!!!
I weighed myself today and am almost down 3 Pd's! Wahoo! But I still Want chocolate. What is My Freaking Problem??
These health Challenges are SO Good for me and at the same time I LOATHE them! Actually I just hate that I can't eat treats when ever I feel the need!
If I could only get to the root of my Eating problems like they do on the Biggest Loser, then I'd be cured :)
I Love watching the Biggest Loser and would love to see that much of a Transformation, But for now Slow and Steady wins the Race!!  At Least I hope So!

RED TEAM

LET THE GAMES BEGIN!!   START YOUR ENGINES! 
Y'ALL READY FOR THIS?  LET'S GET READY TO RUMBLE!        ON YOUR MARK, GET SET, GO!!!

Well I think you get the point!
IN THE WORDS OF COOL RUNNINGS' (Said with a Jamaican Accent Of Course :)
FEEL THE RHYTHM, FEEL THE RHYME, COME ON TEAM, IT'S CHALLENGE TIME!!!

Monday begins my 3rd Health Challenge and I'm Pumped!!  I'm Ready to gain control of my Health again. The Ipod is Synced with New Music, the veggies and fruit are bought, the Wii Dancing and Biggest Loser DVDs are dusted off. The measuring tape and scale are set out. Again I think you get the Picture :)

I'm excited to see what happens in the next 8 weeks!!
GO RED TEAM!!!!!!
 

LOVE LETTER

 

I received this Love Letter from Alejandro :) on Facebook I about fell off my chair laughing.

SO CLASSY

 

Hi Gorgeous I mean Flawless.Wow U're Damn Beautiful. I admire you so much type of woman like you have always be my dream.Am single and searching for the right one, I was Looking for family on here and i came across ur profile and my heart tell me to write you so i did what my heart tells me,Hope i didn't Upset you with my Letter

My Name is Sean Lorenzo Lived In Corsicana In Texas, I am 6'0 Tall average body and mixed race I'm 40 years of age,i was born in Palermo In Italy,I am a christian by Religion and also a Romantic,passionate,affectionate,Caring,Nice,Kind,Faithful,Loyal and God Fearing Man.I have spent my life getting involved with the arts as an artist though i am not yet accomplished.I'm Engineer

I am a Man of High Moral Integrity....Kind and Very Supportive..I believe I am the Type of Man a woman would Love to spend the rest of Her Life with be-cos I have the Qualities a Man should have.I do drink socially But i don't smoke.

No one knows where the right one Lives...But we all Pray to God so that we can have the right Person to spend the rest of our Life with.Distance is just to test how far love can travel it doesn't matter in relationship if two partner really love their self and age is just a number in calendar

I would Love to chat with you on my Yahoo Instant IM..so if you Interested in getting to know more about me as well..you can Reach me Over-there and we can start to Communicate Over-there. lovelydaddy011@yahoo.com

 

WHAT DO YOU THINK? SHOULD I PURSUE THIS? HE COULD BE MY SOUL MATE.

He sounds about PERFECT!!!!!

UP FOR THE CHALLENGE

IT'S TIME TO GET SERIOUS AGAIN!!!
I'M SO EXCITED FOR THE NEW HEALTH CHALLENGE TO BEGIN!!!
This is my 3rd Health Challenge. I'm ready & prepared to buckle down and be serious about my Health.
I have been suffering with Bad headaches for what seems like forever, and I have had some other Health stuff come up. It's Scary. Really, Really Scary, to think that because I make unhealthy habits, I could be, no I AM, shortening my life. I know it's so bad to be overweight, but it's so hard to let go of all these unhealthy habits. Dang Yummy Foods, but Really, I feel SO much better when I implement good eating and exercise  habits and all that Fun stuff. A Co-Worker asked me one time "Stacy, Do you think that you would be Married by now, if you weren't so overweight?"  I seriously wanted to cry, but I've thought about it this question more recently. When I was at my lowest weight (in a long time, this past summer) I felt so much better about myself, physically and emotionally, I felt Cuter, I felt brave enough to try new things, I had so much more energy. I wanted to wear cuter clothes and Jewelery, because I felt like I could.  Not that I couldn't before, But I didn't want to before, I didn't want people to look at me and compliment me on "Cute stuff" because I didn't feel Cute, or Pretty. I worry so much about what others think or what they might say about me, that I don't want to take the risk of embarrassing myself.  Dang Self Esteem!!
Recently a "friend" commented on my weight and asked in a round about way if I was able to keep the weight off from a previous health challenge. I answered honestly with a "Nope, I'm working on it" Gotta love questions like that.   I hate the fact that I'm overweight, but I hate it even more when people treat me like I'm an idiot, And I really don't appreciate the comments from people who have never struggled with weight issues. I know that, this will probably be a lifelong process for me and honestly that sucks, but I also have the chance right now to take control and make some positive changes so that I can look at myself and be proud of my accomplishments. And to all the rude people out there, SHOVE IT IN YOUR CAKE HOLE :)  Okay sorry that was kinda harsh, but that's how I feel!!!!
I know that Heavenly Father has given us Bodies, to take care of and so far I haven't done a super great job, but I'm working on doing better, and I Can't wait to gain control of Me and my Health. Also it's almost summer(I mean SPRING and Cold Wind in Idaho) and I plan on spending my summer in Cute clothes and Cute Sandals :) :) :)
So Bring on the Healthy Foods, The Exercise, The Water, The No eating after 9, and all that other "FUN" stuff, I'm SO Up For The Challenge!!!  Can't wait to meet my new team and work hard to get 100% for the 3rd time!! 

SPRING BREAK- DAY 3 & 4

Day 3
Spring Break is Almost over. I can't believe it. Times goes So Fast, when you don't want it to!
The last 2 days have been fun, but nothing to crazy to blog about. Yesterday it was nice enough to play outside for a few minutes, so Reagan and I did some sidewalk chalk, Okay I drew a big Cupcake and she scribbled on my work of art. Rude :)
My cute goldfish that I had for years went to the Big Fishbowl in the sky yesterday, well actually, it went into a cold, dark muddy hole in the yard. Sad, but it was time. Sure was a great fish, so many memories together, like when it swallowed a Huge rock and I had to gently hold him as I pulled the rock out of it's mouth with tweezers. Good times ha ha.
Last night was also somewhat of an Adventure! Yes I was Brave or Crazy, Or BOTH. I went to Austin Kade(Cosmetology School) and had my hair Cut!! Yep that's right, I Stacy Chandler biggest chicken of ALL when it comes to cutting my hair, Let a Beginner take Scissors and Color to My head!!!
I will Not lie, I was Freaking Out Big Time, but life is all about taking risks and It's only Hair!! Well it may only be hair, But it's My hair, and taking risks, is Not one of my strong points, although I'm about to get a whole lot better at Risk Taking. Just You Wait!!!
Anyways Courtney gave Nathan a hair cut and did a great job, then it was My turn. Yep still freaking out, but I went for it! I had her cut 2 inches off and layered it and then added some brown streaks!  I am wishing now that I would have went with darker streaks, but I wasn't that brave :)  Maybe next time.
I'm pretty happy with how it turned out and feeling pretty good about this Risk! Yay for New Hair cuts
Day 4
Pretty Lame Day actually. Woke up throwing up from my headache, and feeling gross. I went visiting teaching and then spent some more time online researching cookie blogs, I'm ready to try again at the cookie decorating and trying a few new techniques. That's tomorrow. Can't wait, Can Ya??
Read an Ensign article and balled my eyes out. I Love Elder. Holland and I hate being an emotional girl.
I did a few random things and then went to lunch at Sonic, the sandwich was kinda Yucky, but the Lemon Berry Slush Was SO Delish. They are simply one of my most Favorite things in this world. I got the Rt 44 size which is huge and yes I finished it all  by myself. I LOVE them SO MUCH!!
I made some cookie dough for tomorrow and then I finished off my fairly boring day Tanning! I Love tanning, I know it's dangerous and sometimes I get nervous, but I Love the Warmth and the Tan look that I have. It just does something to a girls self- esteem when she's has a glow to her once blinding white skin :)  I also stopped at the party store and picked up some new Cookie Cutters. Pretty sad that cookie cutters can make a girl happy. Oh I'm So Excited about the high heel and Princess crown cookie cutters.
Looking forward to tomorrow and accomplishing some fun things.