Where, oh where has the clean air gone?

We are so fortunate to live in a gorgeous place that produces sunsets like this:



The above photo was taken by a guy named Jim Dockery just a few minutes from my house. My kitchen window faces west so on most given nights I'm hollering to anyone who will listen, "Come see, come see the sunset!" We usually run outside to get a real good look, soak it in and throw up a prayer of gratitude for the beauties before us.

For most of January, February and March we deal with this:




Looking out my kitchen window is downright depressing. My elementary and preschool kids are forced to stay in from recess and we are encouraged to limit our driving and wood burning. As much as I dislike driving up my steep driveway after a fresh snowstorm, I say PLEASE -BRING ON THE SNOW!! Anything, to clean out this stale, yucky smog and give me back my view.

"Air and Simple Gifts"

I had full intention of going to scripture group yesterday morning. As I turned on the TV to catch a glimpse of history in the making, I happened upon this...



(if that doesn't work you can see it here)

By far, my favorite part of the inauguration. Music transcends ideology and politics. To me, it is viewed as a sincere prayer, one without hidden meaning and selfish intent.

While I pray for our new President, I openly admit to shedding tears as I watched President Bush and his wife depart. The biased media bashed this poor man to smithereens. Personally, I believe he was a man who genuinely had our nations best interest at heart. I believe he was a decent, God fearing man who made hard choices that were never popular. Only time will show the fruits of his labors.

May God bless those who have sworn to uphold the constitution and this great land we call America.


ps: later that morning I had a voice mail from handsome hubby singing this, as only he can do ;) Thanks for making my day sweetie.

update on birthday girl

Turning 15 in the Mexican culture is a BIG DEAL. Most girls are inducted into womanhood with a Quinceañera. "To most Mexicans, the "Quinceaños" celebration marks the transition from girlhood to young womanhood, and is the time when a "niña" (girl) is to begin being referred to as a "señorita" (Miss)". It is traditionally marked with a celebration that includes a religious ceremony, every friend and family member you've ever met, live Mariachi, food, and dancing. I will have to write about my BIG DEAL party sometime and share pictures of me in ginormous, ruffly, pink Barbie dress. It was incredible. For Sarah's 15th b.day my Papi flew in from Mexico and we celebrated at The Roof downtown Salt Lake. The above picture was taken by Uncle Jody. She was showered with gifts and had a wonderful time surrounded by all the people who love her most (with the exception of Grandma Martha and a few aunts and uncles who lived to far away to attend). If I remember correctly, I think she even waltzed with her Dad in the lobby of the JSB.

This year for her 16th, she insisted that we keep it low key and absolutely no surprise friend party like last year.

"I just want to chill with my friends and celebrate at Tia Moni's house with cake and ice-cream."

Wish granted.

She went to a "Morning-side" with a few of her friends to hear Elder Bednar. Brunch with the same crew at The Pancake House afterwards. A delightful afternoon at the spa, where she made friends with everyone but the janitor. A visit to the Apple store and later a relaxing evening with a few of the boys from the Sarah fan club. Sunday was spent with the Wihongi's, laughing at her CRAZY stories and jammin' to a little rock band. Oh, to be 15-16 again!

sweet sixteen and never been kissed...hmmm...

Sixteen years ago today Heaven sent us a baby girl...

and her name was Sarah. Here she is at 1 day old.

I remember feeling so overwhelmed with feelings of love and worry that I wouldn't know what to do with this precious little spirit entrusted to me. I still feel that way sometimes.


Her she is at 1 year old.


And here's what she looks like now.


She is a ray a sunshine among her circle of friends. She makes us laugh on a daily basis. She is growing up into a fine young lady and we couldn't be more proud.


Love you more, Sarah!

Celebrate Good Times! Come On!

Last month Matthew attended his cousin Melia's birthday party at Classic Skate. There was no question in his mind where he wanted to celebrate his B-day after that. He had it planned out to the exact party room (Sponge-Bob room) and the exact song he would get to chose during "blackout". Down with the Sickness was his first choice (thanks Sarah!) and his 2nd choice, which we settled on, was Beat It by Michael Jackson. He had a blast. He skated and played video games to his hearts content. As always, my only regret is that I didn't take more pictures, better pictures. There's always next year.

happy birthday little man

Nine years ago today Heaven blessed us with our first son ~Matthew David.

We've been in love ever since.


Happy birthday sweetheart!