2008 Highlights!

Well, I am sitting at my mom's bored cuz everyone is out for now so I thought I would jott down some of the highlights for me this past year! Here goes:

1. I got to welcome a niece and a nephew into our family. We just keep growing, it's great!

2. My 4th Anniversary. Although, every anniversary is great . . . this one was a special one for me. Cory took me to Utah and we stayed at the Anniversary Inn and had dinner at The Roof. If you've never been . . . we personally, thought it was a very wonderful restaurant. We had a window table right next to the SLC Temple and the lights and view were amazing. That temple has always had a special place in my heart because that is where we were sealed. He them suprised me for the FIRST time in ALL of our dating and MARRIED life . . . and got me a diamond necklace that I love. It truly was a wonderful way to spend some time together.

3. I was able to witness my mother and aunt be sealed to their parents in the Temple . . . in which I had the blessing to stand in for my wonderful grandmother, whom I miss dearly. It truly was a powerful sealing and I won't forget the emotions that I had that day . . . because I knew she was there with me.

4. Araleigh started counting to ten and talking MUCH better. (Still working on it though!)

5. I lost 25 lbs . . . and for the first time was actually dedicated to diet and exercise. It felt wonderful being back into my high school clothes! Hopefully I will get motivated again after baby 2!

6. We bought our jeep . . . always nice to have a better car!

7. Araleigh turned two . . . and she plays the role VERY WELL.

8. Araleigh started sleeping in her big girl bed! . . . now for potty training.. yikes!

9. Our trip to Utah to be with some old friends. . . to which #10 came to be known!

10. After trying . . . for quite some time, many tests and one final procedure we found out we were pregnant (in Utah)!

11. FINALLY got to eat at the Cheesecake Factory (I have always wanted to eat there because of the name itself. I LOVE CHEESECAKE!) . . . did I mention it was incredible??

12. My dad finally got to retire from a job that pulled him down.

13. We had a 2 wonderful holidays . . . Thanksgiving with my family and Christmas in St.George. It truly was a wonderful end to this year!

Well, thats all I can think up right now . . . so HAPPY NEW YEAR! Hope you all get that kiss . . . mine will be sent through a phone :(

My project . . .

So I mentioned earlier that I made some presents for people this year and they turned out awesome! Well, I can finally post them now Christmas is over! I was so excited that my little ideas came together. I have seen stuff like this around . . . but just came up with my own quote and spent a bit of time figuring out how to do it all. But I accomplished it and love them! I hope those who received them love them just as much!!!


Now my next projects includes: FINISHING Araleigh's quilt. Yes, I KNOW . . . I haven't finished yet . . . ridiculous. But now that the holidays are over . . . I gotta concentrate on the Quilt, taking down Christmas Decor, and Potty training. Oh yay! This is going to be a long next week! We will see how far I really get!

Shake your Money Maker!!

Okay, so this was one of the highlights of the week. Preston (our nephew) all the sudden started dirty dancing. It was hilarious and no one knows where he got it from (I personally think this is a Jeff shower routine). haha. Anyways, he kept yelling "Shake your money maker" . . . which was hilarious with his little dance routine. He DEFINITELY has Crunking down pact! Araleigh on the other hand was just flipping around trying to mock him . . . but Preston was the star of the show! Anyways, enjoy Preston "shaking his money maker"- "CRUNKING" routine! You will have to turn off my blogs music to hear him talking.

Christmas

Well this year the Arnold family decided to go to St. George for Christmas. Cory's sister lives there . . .and I think it was in everyone's head that Christmas would be in like 70 degree weather. WRONG. It was freezing the entire time! There was one day that was pretty nice but it was chilly still. We left Idaho on Monday morning . . . taking about 10 hours to get there because we pretty much went through a storm the entire way. It was TERRIBLE. Luckily on the way home the roads were fine and no storms were there to slow us down! Overall we had a great trip. I was actually shocked at how well things turned out. We had a house two doors down from Jen and were just a small stride to her house. It was nice, because when the kids started fighting . . .
I could just leave with Araleigh to the other house we were staying at to get some relief from the fighting! The kids played really well together until after Christmas. I think that's when things got nasty. Everyone wanted to play with each others toys . . . and no one wanted to share! All of them were stinkers a bit! But we got through it! Araleigh had a great Christmas this year. She got lots of new clothes, a kitchen, a Dora doll and indoor tent, princess table and chairs, 2 babies, new pj's, a mp3 player (its a toy), a tea set and pan set for her kitchen, and singing toothbrush. She had a good Christmas! I, got a VERY nice and expensive hair straightener that I have been wanting! (It has been wonderful!!) we got some movies, Dr. Marten shoes, caramels from the hubby . . . and maternity clothes (which suprisingly Cory did very well with picking out!!).
Cory got his stupid expensive Helicopter (which I found out he already flew and broke a piece so he couldn't even fly it yet), an ipod car kit, a book, clothes . . . clothes and clothes ....... money and a hat. Overall it was a great Christmas and we had a fun time. Now coming home has been hectic trying to get everything put back together. I have STILL been sick which had been terrible since I thought it would be gone by now. But I am hoping within the next few weeks it will ease up. We will see though! Anyways, hope everyone had a great Christmas . . .heres my pages from the week!

chill

Alright . . I am officially EXHAUSTED!!

Okay, I have had a LONG two days. It is pretty much CRUNCH time in the Arnold Residence . . . why? Because we DON'T have our shopping done . . . and we have a Christmas Party: Friday, Saturday AND SUNDAY (which means packing and loading the car). PLUS I am in charge of the Christmas lesson on SUNDAY . . . and we are leaving at SEVEN AM on Monday morning. So when am I going to have time to shop? Well, I don't. Because yesterday, I slaved ALL DAY LONG making delicious candy with a two year old hanging on my leg, being EXTREMELY NEEDY. (I was very short circuited last night because off this.) But I will say, that with the help from my mom we accomplished completing: 3 Batches of Divinity (1 bad, but its Cory's fav so I had to make alot ), a batch of fudge, 2 batches of caramels (all wrapped individually. . . urg), 2 batches of Rice Krispies, Peanut Brittle, Chocolate dipped pretzels, and sugar cookies . . . with sprinkles courtesy of Araleigh! Yeah, it was a long day. Plus at the end of it . . . I had come up with some ideas for my sister in law and mother in law for presents . . . so at the end I had to do some craft work (after 11) so that I could work on them ALL day today. Well, I am glad to say that I got BOTH gifts completely finished . . . and they look awesome! I will show you after the holidays . . . cuz I can't say what they are (its a surprise!) but I worked my toosh off . . and got them done!

*THIS PICTURES IS ME AFTER YESTERDAYS CANDY SLAVE DRIVE. Don't you just LOVE the hair??? haha . . . ya, me with. . no makeup and no hair things to keep my hair out of my face so I had to improvise with 2 hair pony's that I found in Araleighs bag. It worked and I looked like Alfalfa whom got run over by a reindeer . . . . smelling like sugar! I was so more tired than I have ever been. But I am thankful for my mom for letting me crash at her house, because I was WAY to tired to drive home.



In between crafting things today . . . while things were drying . . I put together my candy plates and got them loaded in the car. I am just glad Araleigh slept for 2 hours today or I wouldn't have got ANYTHING done. After dropping off everything to the families we got home . . . and decided to treat ourselves to dinner. Called up some friends and went out. We then took Araleigh to the Musical Light show (its a house set with lights set to music) in Iona. It was fun . . . Araleigh danced and sang to the music, but it was a little long for her mind to focus on. It was fun though. So now I am off to the busiest weekend of my life. Still got shopping to do . . . (NO PRESENTS ARE WRAPPED YET-eek) packing, lesson planning, laundry, present wrapping and just never ENDING things that I won't get done. Anyways, I won't be blogging now for a while . . . UNLESS I can catch my breath in the next few days. Wish me luck . . . and have a very MERRY CHRISTMAS. . . I can't believe its in a week. WHERE DID THIS YEAR GO?????

BORED . . . waiting to go to dinner.

RULES: There are 100 statements and you bold the ones you have done. Grab it and play for yourself!!
1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity.
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Climbed a mountain.
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child - plan on doing this!
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty- okay would have but 911 said no way. We could only walk around it. :(
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept in an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitchhiked
23. Taken a sick day when you're not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse (solar)
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community- even had dinner at one's house!
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo's David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business - the fam did, not fun.
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy- all at my moms though
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten cavier.
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person - from a plane
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating - I shot a turkey and at it for Thanksgiving!
88. Had chicken pox
89. Saved someone's life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a lawsuit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Read an entire book in one day

Twilight for Christmas. . .

This is really pretty funny. Merry Christmas to the Twilight lovers, especially my husband! haha

Hmm . . what to do?

So this big girl bed thing . . has been fine at night and a NIGHTMARE at 4:30 in the morning. Every morning, I hear the crack of Araleigh's door . . . with a pitter patter and then her standing by my bed saying "mommy, mommy". Its getting quite irritating. . . and for me I NEED MY SLEEP! She has slept with us (after waking up) for the past FOUR nights. THIS IS NOT NORMAL NOR IS IT A GOOD THING. She has NEVER EVER EVER slept with us. And frankly, is a nightmare to sleep with. She thinks the only way to sleep is Horizontal . . . and she flips about a thousand times. It's quite frustrating. So Cory gets kicked out of the bed about 4:30 and sleeps in her bed . . . because I don't have any energy to get up and entertain her. So I am thinking that next we will just try to walk her back to bed. I am not sure though if she is having nightmares or what . . . cuz she has been pretty hysterical a few nights. I am hoping that we haven't let her see anything that would scare her. But I heard around two is when they start having bad dreams. AHH . . . I am NOT USED TO THIS! I am used to her going to bed at 8 and waking up between 8-9 am. So I am having a HUGE lag in energy and am tired all the time . . . . plus I am STILL sick. I am nauseated all the time . . . and get sick usually every other day. . for some reason. I am really hoping this round will go away in a few weeks, since it didn't with Araleigh. But I am starting to get real fat . . . I HATE IT! I am at the stupid ackward stage where no one knows your pregnant and you just look ugly and chubby. I am so suprised how fast I am growing with this one. I was so small with Araleigh . . . so I hope I don't gain like 80 lbs . . . I don't know what I'd do with myself! lol Anyways, okay well I have SO much to do today . . . including finishing our shopping. So, have a great one . . whoever reads this!

Yay for big girls!

First of all . . . I have to say that:

THIS IS WHY 2 YEARS OLDS DON'T DRESS THEMSELVES!

I tried to get her dressed today . . . but she found that her pj's were much more comfy (as do I) with a nice shirt to go over the bottoms for the skirt. All afternoon she would come to me and play with the "Skirt"-shirt and say "OH TUTE!" and "It's so TUTE" . . . it was pretty funny! As you can see her hair is getting really long too . . . I am not sure what to do with it anymore. I am not creative . . . so we do a lot of messy pony's around here! She's funny and keeps me on my toes. Moving on:

So I am SO excited because we FINALLY got Araleigh a big girl bed. Okay, I know . . . WOW a bit overdue, I KNOW. We were going to buy her one for her birthday . . . and then things got tight and we just never got around to getting it. It's been easy to forget since she sleeps like an angel in her crib. But she is big enough now that she can figure out a big bed. So we FINALLY got one 2 days ago. We haven't bought an actualy bed (headboard, ect) or anything (not till after the holidays . . sheesh) so its just the bed with a side-railing. I have to say . . she is doing so great! The first night it was all fun and games . . . and I had to walk her back to bed I think 5 times. It was funny because as you can see in the side picture . . she kept turning the light on, opening the door a crack and peeking her eye out to see where we were . . and then quickley would shut it. . . Cory FINALLY went in and threatened her that she'd get into the crib if she didn't lay down and took away her stool (to which she uses to turn the light on and off). He shut the door and we didnt hear another peep. She was out. I couldn't believe it. Now NAPTIME was ANOTHER STORY. I think I lost my temper way too many times in the hour and a half that it took me to get her down . . . to which she ended up in her crib, anyway. I was SO MAD and frustrated.. She just wanted to play and nap time is VERY important for her . . . so after laying with her, getting mad, a little spank (that NEVER affects her) . . . I put her in her crib and let her scream it out for 5 minutes and then she was out. So any ideas on how to make NAP time as easy as bedtime . . . please share!! I will say tonight I was also VERY surprised. We had friends over and she was REALLY riled up and playing hard. But we told her to go to her bed and she went right in there. Cory shut the light off and the door . . . and no peeps OR TRIES at escaping. SHOCKER. So things are well. I have to say I am ALMOST done with her quilt . . . I started it a LONG time ago and it has taken me FOREVER and EVER and EVER to complete. i had an idea in my head of what I wanted after seeing samples of different blankets in quilt shops. For a first timer . . . I am a retard and decided to do the hardest thing ever, come up with my own little pattern and idea (combinations of things I saw in the store . . only I had to times the size by like FOUR to fit her bed the way I want) . . .. So I spent hours at a quilt shop trying to figure out materials and spent time cutting out a pattern (that I drew up, I know stupid right). I was trying to go cheaper by doing it all myself . . . well after more hours of tracing, cutting, and mapping it out ( I had to come up with a color pattern cuz I didn't have enough material for the back so I used what worked) ... lets just say that I have never wanted to be done with a project SO BAD n my life. I do see the light at the end of the tunnel now, however and it has turned out SO SO SO cute. I am excited to see the end result. Now hopefully it DOES turn out and it will fit on her bed. . . eek. Scary scary! I should finish it by next week . . . (maybe even tomorrow . . if I work allday!) so pictures will come . . . its cute!!

And another great weekend!

FINALLY I HAVE PICTURES!!!!

So we had such a fun weekend! Cory finally got home from Utah at 6:30 on Friday night . . . when Dustin, Candice, Brock and us all went to the store to buy the stuff for our Christmas Party that we had on Saturday. It was a lot of fun and we had a really good turn out! It seems like since Brock has been back we throw parties for everything! lol . . . who needs a high school reunion when you got him here to throw them together! Anyways, it was fun. We had a gift exchange and just ate dinner and lots of desserts. It was fun to see people that we haven't seen in a REALLY long time!! Anyways, it was funny cuz Araleigh was watched by her uncle Trenton. He brought her over to me before he took her to the basketball game so she could eat . . . . this is how she showed up. . . because her silly dad forgot to take her coat with them. But he was on top of it and covered her up. She looked like a little punk. Anyways, he took her to the game and said they had a great time. His girlfriend is a cheerleader . . . and Araleigh LOVES cheerleaders. She cheers ALL the time. All she says though is "GO BIG BUE" and "FIGHT"
its pretty funny!

Here are some pictures from the party! I was SO HAPPY that my friends ended up coming . . . even thought their hubbys bailed! They weren't going to so I am glad they did. I get so excited when my friends are around just because we don't see each other often!

After the party . . . the boys got the interesting idea to go stick a toilet on their friends front porch. Its been sitting there waiting for them to do it for like a MONTH. Well, they finally did it last night. It was pretty hilarious. They made a sign that said something like "Your dirty butts go here" . . . and left it on their porch. Anyways, they were REALLY proud of their creativity . . . . here are the pictures of their naughty activities!

Christmas cards

For all those who want Christmas cards . . . send me your addresses!

First Docs Appt!

So I had our first Doctors appt today! Woo hoo! Glad thats over with! Everything was great, baby is great . . . . and I got some great news! I am a week further than I thought. YIPPEE! I said I wasn't sure on a due date . . but it's officially now June 22nd! So I am 11 wks 3 days! I thought I was 10 wks. Anyways! Thats always fun . . . getting your due date pushed up! I am just GLAD to know that there really IS a baby in there . . .because I am getting fat . . AND FAST! So woosh and that note! Anyways, just thought I'd share! I am still sick as a dog and tired as a narcaleptic . . . but I am coping as everyone does!

Good Weekend!

So we had a WONDERFUL Thanksgiving. I have to say that with my mom's food . . . you cannot go wrong. It was soooooooooo good. The kids all played well, we had tons of yummy pies and treats and we even got some night shopping in at KMart . . they always have a big sale on Thanksgiving. Then of course BLACK FRIDAY. I fortunately decided that 4 am wasn't worth it for the few things I wanted. So my mom called at 7 (my sisters had already been out since 4) and I decided to jump up and go to Fred Meyers . . . then I got most of my stuff there and ended up at Walmart. Later Cory and I went to the mall to get him some clothes . . . cuz they are always SO cheap on Black Friday, ended up buying him some clothes and myself some new jeans. . . funny part is I will have to start wearing them now or else by Christmas WHO knows if they will fit (I am growing WAY faster with my second). Then we ran into Cory's mom, sister, and grandma and ended up with them at Johnny Corrinos. . . then we came home, all of us took a long nap and then ended up going to Sugar and had a wonderful night with Cory's family for his dads birthday. I am SO relieved because Araleigh and her cousins (Janalie's boys) they play . . . SO WELL. I couldn't believe it. There was no fighting and they just laughed at each other. They had so much fun! It was such a good weekend! Then on Saturday we spent the day cleaning (woosh, its a relief to have Cory here to help . . . especially with the sickness and tiredness) he brought up my Christmas stuff!! And I got my tree up . . . YAY! Araleigh did SO good putting the bulbs on the tree . . . I only had to move a couple. But the BEST part of my day was when I heard a "Oh MY GOSH . . .you're not going to believe this . . . " coming from Cory as he was bringing up my tree. All the sudden he brings me ONE of my wedding rings. AHHHH . . . . I freaked and we went on a hunt (I had lost my wedding rings almost 2 weeks ago . . . and we've been frantic and sick about it!) Turns out that Araleigh got a hold of them (as suspected) and she THREW them down the stairs. There were 3 rings on 3 different stairs. I NEVER go downstairs . . . only to do laundry and I never even saw them. How lame! But I am SO SO SO relieved. I have since bought an ACTUAL jewelry box to put my stuff in. Now maybe I will know what happens to them.!!! I have to say I have been TERRIBLE at not taking pictures . . . NOT LIKE ME AT ALL! I didn't even take one of Araleigh and her cousins. But I will get some of our tree and Araleigh sometime soon and get it up . . . I blame everything on this pregnancy. I cannot believe how hard it's been. I am not going to complain TOO much because its still better than my first one. But I have been SO tired all the time and nauseated all the time .... which is normal . . like I had said before I finally got the meds that are strong for my throwing up, problem is that they give me severe headaches . . so its a toss up . . throw up or suffer a migraine. So its been a rough couple of days. Anyways, my first docs appt is on Tues . . YIPPEE! Then Cory is off to Utah again for a week. Hope everyone had a great weekend.

SORRY MY POSTS ARE ALL TEXT, NO PICTURES. BORING, I KNOW!!! I AM SUCH A SLACKER!

Terrible Days . . . please end!

So, this past week has been a nightmare for me. First of all . . . I am REALLY freaking out because it all started with a cute little girl bringing mommy a surprise. My wedding rings. Well, for some reason- when I am pregnant (actually in general but pregnancy makes it BAD) I have complete memory loss and just don't think at all. Well . . . Araleigh brought them to me (there are 3 of them) and I THINK I put them down. . . and since cannot recall where they are or if she took them again and played with them. I AM FREAKING OUT! No wedding rings are cheap . . . and MINE WASN'T at all. So we have been in an uproar at the Arnold residence. I have searched EVERYWHERE and Cory went through all the garbages today. So I have no idea where they are. I am PRAYING PRAYING AND PRAYING that they will just turn up. Anyways, so along with this stress . . . of course I have had terrible morning, day, and night sickness. I was taking 3 different medicines to try and relieve it and it NEVER helped. So I FINALLY called my doctor and told him to put me on the stuff I had with Araleigh . . . which is SUPER expensive but totally worth it! Luckily, the day I had that filled .......... of course I got hit with the FLU. I am pretty sure it was the flu because I was sick in every way and had a bad fever with chills and sweats. I will tell you yesterday was the WORST day in a long time. I felt like the most horrible mother ever . . . Araleigh just laid in bed by me and watched Dora ALL DAY. Neither of us showered or dressed. Me . . . trying to sleep so I would throw up. It was terrible. Finally Cory got home at like 7 and made me soup (which was all I had REALLY eaten that day) got me some Sprite . . . and picked up my Zofran pills. I took one right away and was instantly relieved (though its for morning sickness . . . I figured it could help with the flu too!) So today I am recovering. Still a little sick to my stomach but I haven't thrown up . . .YAY! I did manage to help my mom make all the pies for tomorrow and got her tree up and decorated. Plus, I got some Chiz's shrimp out of it . . . so I am a happy camper today. So now lets just hope that I am well tomorrow to stuff my belly full of mom's incredible Thanksgiving Dinner! Hope everyone has a great one!

I am thankful for . . .

N
Noodles: Anyone that has had my moms homemade noodles on potatoes knows why I am grateful for them!!! YUMMO!

O
Oreos: I usually don't buy cookies . . . but I love me an Oreo once in a while. Especially homemade ones!


P
Pictures: I am obsessed with taking pictures of Araleigh . . . ask anyone in my family. But I feel like it's so important to have those moments documented for her sake and those of our posterity. Its fun going through pictures of my grandmas . . . I only wish there were more. So I love taking pictures.

Q
Quilts: To keep us warm at night . . . Especially ones made by Grandma who is now gone.


R
Rain: To give us the nourishment in our plants to make things grow and be beautiful

S
Siblings: I am so grateful for the family I have . . . though they never seem to get along I am glad they are mine.

T
Temples-- I love the feeling of peace I achieve each time I visit an LDS temple. How wonderful it is to leave your troubles at the door and have an hour or two of quiet, peaceful service.

U
Ultrasounds: I am glad we have technology to see our babies and make sure they are healthy or when things go wrong . . . to help us understand.

V
Vehicles: I am SO grateful for our cars. Though one of them is slowly falling apart . . .we are still thankful to be able to have two of them and to get around in luxury and not by walking. We are a blessed time to have every luxury that pioneers never had or imagined. I think these things are taken for granted. . . especially by me.

W
Washers: Now I mean DISH WASHERS and WASHERS (and Dryers) I can't even stand laundry and dishes as is . . . . so me NOT having that luxury . . . well . . . we'd be stinky and eating off the table.

X
xrays: Of course this is like the ultrasound one . . . its wonderful to have the technology to give doctors information on what is wrong with us!

Y
YOU: I am grateful for the friends and family that keep up with our family . . and waste their time reading all our junk! Thanks for being friends!

Z
Zofran: This medicine saved my life through my last pregnancy and now this one. I am VERY grateful for this VERY expensive drug . . . it makes me want to actually eat something.

Mommy Survery

My First Baby… Here you go Moms - a different kind of survey for a
change- it's all about you and your first baby.

1. Were you married at the time? Yep
2. What were your reactions when you found out you were pregnant? Shocked . . I had so many negatives that I didn't believe it at first. I was freaking out a lot too, I remember.
3. How old were you? 21 (a month away from turning 22)
4. How did you find out you were pregnant? pregnancy test
5. Who did you tell first? my sister (because I didn't want to be wrong and she's a nurse) and Cory
6. Did you want to find out the sex? yes
7. Due date? October 8th
8. Did you deliver early or late? a week early
9. Were you sick? the ENTIRE pregnancy. I almost stop after one it was horrible
10. What did you crave? Nothing . . . because I through up everything that I ate.
11. Who irritated you the most? prolly Cory cuz he was the only one around.
12. What was your first child's sex? Girl
13. How many pounds did you gain throughout the pregnancy? I think I got up to 7 one week but at most appts at the end it was only 5 lbs.
14. Did you have any complications during your pregnancy? Not really . . . I had Strep B so had to get the meds before I could have her.
15. Where did you give birth? Sandy, Utah
16. How many hours were you in labor? 11 hours!!!!
17. Who drove you to the hospital? myself . . . my doctor sent me up from my appointment and Cory was working a half hour away. He had to bring all of the stuff . . . it was scary going up and starting by myself.
19. Did you take medicine to ease the pain? Everything they could give me, I took
20. How much did your child weigh? 6lbs 12oz.
21. Did your child have any complications? Nope, she was perfect
22. What did you name him/her? Araleigh Nicole ARnold
23. How old is your first born today? 2 years old
24. Who does your child look like? Like her Aunt Lacey!

Okay, Moms, re-post this as 'My first baby', send it to all the
otherMoms, plus the Mom who sent it to you

I am thankful for M . . .

Mothers

I am so thankful for my Mom. I have never met anyone that has given more up in their life than her. All growing up, my mom NEVER got anything for herself. She was so selfless . . . and in return gave me whatever I was in need of and wanted. She has always been willing to help . . . whether it be with paying bills when time are hard or just being a great grandma and mom. I am so thankful for all the moms in my life and what they have given to me and my daughter.

I am thankful for L. . .

LOVE

I am so grateful for all the loves in my life! Wouldn't this world be a sad, unsatisfying world without love. I am not sure what I would do without the love of my husband and child, or other friends and family. I am so grateful for the love of our Heavenly Father and Savior. Without their never ending love for His children . . . we would not get all the chances in a lifetime to make the right choices and return to them.

I am thankful for K . . .

KISSES

I love getting kisses . . . especially from Araleigh! It is SO cute because we randomly stop playing with her toys . . . run over to me and say "mom, I kiss" and she puckers up to give me one. I love it! Its always nice to get kisses from your hubby. I am talking the sweet, quick kisses that you get before they leave or before you go to sleep. Those are sweet kisses that I can't go without. I just love how giving and receiving kisses just makes you feel loved . . . whether it be from your child, niece or nephew, father, or hubby. Kudoes to Kisses!

I am thankful for J . . .

JESUS CHRIST

What can I say . . . He is the center of my religion. I am grateful for Him and his ultimate gift to the world. The gift of the Atonement. I am grateful for the knowledge that I have of Him and of our Father in Heaven. My testimony has come through Him and I can't wait for the day that this world is again at peace and we get to meet Him and thank Him for his love. This picture I absolutely love. It is in Araleigh bedroom . . . . and it just gives me comfort because we all our Children of God and they love us and give us SO many chances to return to them. What love they have that they give us a lifetime of repentence and mercy to get us to come back to them. No matter how many mistakes we make . . . . and most sins we are able to repent and receive that forgiveness and once again feel their love. I am SO grateful for being born into this knowledge. Through them we are Eternal Families . . . and that is a knowledge that I would not want to NOT have.

I am thankful for I . . .

INDEPENDENCE

I am SO grateful for our freedom. I have never had to experience sending a love one to war . . . but how grateful I am for those family members in this world that have let their soldiers go. I cannot imagine what they go through. But the bravery and honor that they carry is a wonderful thing. I am grateful for the place which I live. That we have the choice to do the things want, be what we want, say what we want . . . . we truly are a blessed country and I am proud to be a citizen of it!

Twilight Movie Question . . .

Okay, so I saw a trailer for Twilight today . . . and does anyone remember the scene with Emmett and Edward in the forest (Emmett has a hood on) and he says to Edward "SHE'S NOT ONE OF US". Uh yeah ............................ THAT WASNT EVEN IN THE MOVIE. WTFREAK? I am sitting here thinking that they skipped out A LOT of some of the Cullen side of things . . . in which I would have LOVED to see in the movie. I also thought it was REALLY weird that they shared the first kiss in the bedroom . . . wasn't it in the Meadow? Anyways, I really loved the film . . because of WHAT ITS ABOUT . . . but decided that I am dissappointed in the chosen scenes and really hope that they step up big time on the next one! Anyone agree?

I am thankful for H . . .

HOME

Now, I have to say along with this is my house. My house is older . . . but its ours. We are so grateful to be able to have some place to come home to. . especially one that we have made our own. I am thankful for the two homes that we get to go back to in Sugar (our parents). My parents house will always be my home. I am grateful for them who have made it that way. I am so thankful that we were able to purchase a home almost two years ago . . . and that we have been fortunate enough to enjoy it.

Twilight Review . . .

............... WARNING: DONT READ IF YOU HAVENT SEEN THE MOVIE .............................
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So I FINALLY got to go see the movie . . . which was long awaited. I have to say . . . although my idea of Edward was COMPLETELY different than their choice of character, I think he did a really good job at portraying him. (although I still don't find him dreamy like in my mind! lol) The special effects weren't AS BAD as I thought they were going to be (according to some bad reviews the special effects were terrible) i thought it was better than expected since it was a lower budget film. My overall review would be that it followed the book precisely (although things were left out as predicted because of course they only have 2 hours . . right?) Anyways, the only thing that was REALLY frustrating to me was that my FAVORITE part which would be "The Meadow" scene. Well, that wasn't portrayed to the book . . . in my opinion. It was rushed and I thought that was the best part. PERSONAL OPINION THOUGH! Other than that I have to say I loved it . . . and Cory even stated to me that he wants to go see it again ........ FINE BY ME!!!! Now, I am going to be highly anticipating news of the 2nd movie. I think that with all the money they will and have made from Twilight . . . hopefully they will have more money to put into the 2nd film and make it incredible. Kinda like the Harry Potter films . . . they just keep getting better!! Anyways, any other inputs of yours I would LOVE to know what you thought. So post a comment!!

I am thankful for G . . .

GRANDPARENTS

Now, I dont have a picture of my grandma on my computer . . . but this post is specifically for her. I only grew up with one grandparent influence in my life, my grandmother. Although she wasn't nice to some people around her (she was a stern Democrat and born in the time of racism a bit) . . . she truly was the most giving and supportive woman in our lives. My dads parents died when I was 2 and 5 . . . and although I do have limited memories of my grandfather, I don't remember much about them. My other grandpa was never in our lives. He and my grandma divorced when my mom was fairly young . . . and moved on with a whole new family. He came back into our lives through the last 3 years of his life . . but never really had a good influence on us. But I am grateful for the one person that did have a tremendous influence. My Grandma passed away 2 years ago, last June. I was pregnant with Araleigh . . . and was the only one who didn't get to see her before she left because we lived in Utah. This was a very hard thing for me. I remember saying to her . . . you stick around till you can meet your new grandbaby. Well, that never happened . . . but I found comfort that she possibly got to see her before sending her to me. She was the center of our lives and we did and wanted to do everything we could to help her. She always supported us and gave us what she could. I look at my parents now . . . and how big of an influence they are to the grandchildren. Grandparents are certainly a wonderful thing and I am grateful that the one's that I have had influence from in my life. I truly wish that Grandma Bert was still around to let my children bounce on her knee and to hear her sweet lullabys that she sang. I do have to say though, because of her passing . . . I was able to stand in as proxy for my grandmother when we sealed my mom's family together. It truly was an experience I will never forget and am grateful for my Grandmother . . . who I know that was there that day. It's not very often that a child gets to witness a living parent be sealed to their grandparents. So this was a very special thing for me . . . and definately gave me closure to her passing.

Another Tag . . . 8's

So I know these tags sometimes get long . . . but I find them fun to answer the questions especially when I don't have ANYTHING else to do! Here goes:

8 TV shows I watch. (as previously stated in before posts!)

1. The Office

2. Private Practice

3. Greys Anatomy

4. Dirty Sexy Money

5. Friday Night Lights

6. Gossip Girl

7. Lipstick Jungle

8. The Unit

8.1 The Hills ......... These are the ones I DO NOT MISS. (unless their DVRed, I know I am pathetic!!!)

8 Things that happened today

1. Threw Up .. . oh joy (cute note* Araleigh came in while I was sick . . and tried to rub my back and hug me and kept saying "mamma u sick?" It was cute.)

2. Ate many small snacks

3. Emptied and re-loaded the dish washer

4. Showered . . .but didn't get ready. I am so homely lately.

5. Napped with Araleigh

6. Got Paid :) Thats always good!

8. Changed diapers and snuggled with my tot. . .

8 Things I'm looking forward to

1. Thanksgiving!

2. 1st Doctors Appt.

3. Getting out of debt

4. Building a house

5. Christmas and all the fun parties!

6. Getting Araleigh Potty Trained . . . for real

7. Not throwing up anymore . . .

That's about it right now :)

8 Things on my wish list

1. Not to gain a lot of weight with this baby . . . I am already turning to jello . . uck.

2. New shoes and clothes . . . that won't fit in a few months anyways.

3. To be Debt Free . . .

4. Araleigh again . . to be potty trained

6. A Healthy baby

7. a new car (I swear ours is going to explode)

8. a scrapbook completed . . . I cant seem to get the energy to upload them and get them printed.

8 Things I love

1. My family and friends

2. Watching Araleigh learn and grow

3. Mrs. Powells Cinnamon Twists . . . at the moment

4. Zofran and Phenegran

5. the Gospel

6. baking

7. fruit pizza

8. Completed Scrapbooks

8 Favorite places to eat

1. Cheesecake Factory

2. Texas Roadhouse

3. Olive Garden

4. Craigos

5. Garcias

6. Thai

7. Moms house

8. Gandolfos Breakfast

8 Things I can't stand

1. When someone says they are going to do something and then they don't do it

2. Pee on or around the toilet seat . . . (HIT YOUR TARGET PEOPLE)

3. Laundry

4. throwing up

5. People who eat with their Mouth OPEN and do it LOUD

6. Spending money on things that aren't fun (like mortgage and insurance) :)

7. Losing things . . . I have a terrible memory and do this often. MAKES ME MAD.

8. LIARS. LIARS. LIARS. - I am a bad liar . . . therefore do not understand why people find it so easy to lie to the people that they love. This is something I will always hate.

I tag... everyone who wants to do it!

I am thankful for F . . .

FATHERS

I am SO grateful for the fathers in my life. My dad has always had a way of getting to me . . . he can always make me cry for no reason. Most of the time its because of how sincere he is and how he tries so hard to get our family where they need to be. I am so proud of him for his accomplishments. He just retired this week and have already seen him glowing not being tied down to a job that he really didn't like. My dad has ALWAYS been there for me and my family. He has helped us out when times were tough . . . even when times were tough for them. He never tells me no . . . and just really wants to give his everything to his family. I have never seen a man so involved with grandkids. My dad ALWAYS has his grandkids around him. He is always traveling everywhere to get them with him. He takes them for a few days on a "Grandpa Weekend" which the older kids look forward to every year. I am not sure how he does it by himself . . . but he does. He is truly incredible, and I love him very much. I also need to mention my father-in-law. I have never met anyone with the knowledge of the Gospel that he has. He has been a true inspiration for Cory and I both and has always been there to help us through our trials. I am grateful for all fathers . . . including Cory and the examples that they are to their children.

I am thankful for E . . .

EYES

I am so grateful for sight. Without my eyes . . . I wouldn't be able to see the miracle of life happen. I watch and am amazed by Araleigh everyday . . . and would find it very unfortunate not being able to have that opportunity to watch her grow and learn. I will never forget the first time I saw Araleigh or saw Cory with her . . . what a special memory that is and only by my eyes was that possible. Also, eyes indirectly give away someones soul. I have realized that if you truly can read someone . . . it is through their eyes. Because eyes don't lie. I am grateful for the miracle of sight and that I have the opportunity to see and witness the small miracles that happen in my life everyday.

I am thankful for D . . .

DOCTORS:

Though doctors have a dendancy to take your money away . . . I have to say that without the wonderful gift of modern medicine we would all be in trouble! I know that if I was a pioneer it makes total sense to me why so many people died ......... because no one really knew what to do. That is exactly my case. If Araleigh gets sick . . . I call the doctor cuz I have no clue whats okay and whats not to give her. Also, my ob/gyn doctor . . . without his expertise and continued efforts I wouldn't be pregnant. Also, the Anesthesiologist . . . I WOULD HAVE DIED if I would have went natural . . I am VERY grateful for ALL doctors. Whether it be in performing the miracle of babies or someone saving a life in the ER. How fortunate we are to have access to people with such knowlege, medicine and equipment. We are so blessed.

I am thankful for C . . .

CORY

I know that I don't always show my appreciation for my husband . . . but I do appreciate his love. When things are good between us we have such a good time and he keeps me laughing. He has worked hard the last few years to support our family and has been very supportive in many of our trials. When I get discouraged or otherwise just plain stressed . . . he always seems to try and bring me back down to earth to get me to cope.. he has become an incredible dad, Araleigh adores him and he just gets amazed by her. I love watching them together. Ever since Cory and I started dating he has become some what of the clown of the family. The oddest things happen to him that people never think of . . . . and it just keeps everyone laughing. I am not sure how he really feels about being the center of jokes a lot of times . . but I think he deals with it well. He has a bright personality that drew me to him right off. There usually isn't much of a dull moment when Cory is in the room . . . he usually is making jokes or trying to get people to laugh with him. He isn't much for serious situations. I remember as we dated in high school he clearly stated to me that his wife will never work and he would do what he could to make that happen. This is one of the reasons I fell for him . . . he always assured me that I would be taken care of. Although, being a stay at home mom was never really in my mind back then, I am so grateful for the opportunity that he has brought me to do so. I now know the importance of raising our own children and being the influences that they have . . . and through him I have realized this. I love him very much and hope that through thick and thin . . . we will continue to pull through together and lean on each other.

I do also want to mention (and he is going to kill me but its funny!) That Cory is DEFINITELY not afraid to admit to what he likes. As I stated in previous posts . . . he is just as into Twilight as I am. Well, I found out yesterday . . . that my wonderful hubby started signing petitions to send to Stephenie Meyer to get her to finish Midnight Sun. Is that not hilarious? It was almost a proud moment for me cuz he made fun of me SO bad for these books . . . and now he is even MORE into them than I am. He is definately my stud muffin! haha
********************shhhhh . . .don't tell him I told, he'd kill me!

I am thankful for B . . .

BOOKS:

Now, I am not much of a reader . . but I do know that because of Books many people find answers to questions or just plain get lost in the art of literature. The Book of Mormon is the best book in my life. Although, I don't read it as vigorously as I need to . . . I know that it was written and translated for us and to help us get through this life and back to our Heavenly Father. I am grateful for the testimony that reading this book will bring. This book is the key to missionary work . . . and I am truly grateful for it. Many people love to read a good book . . . as do I. But like I said I am not much of a reader but when I find a great book that interests me ..... I am truly engrossed in it. I love that you have to use your imagination to explore books . . . and I know that because of books and records that we have . . . all knowledge gained in this life through them we will be able to take on with us in the next life.

I am thankful . . .

Okay, so I have seen this going around and alot of people are doing it. Since Thanksgiving is right here soon . . . I am also going to start the tag!
So to start I am going to do . . .

I AM THANKFUL FOR A.....

Araleigh:

Ever since Araleigh was born she has fit right into our family. She was the perfect baby. Only cried when something was wrong and slept through the night very early. She has been very easy to put on a schedule and has just made being a mom an easy task. She was such a happy little girl, I always said that the Lord blessed me with an angel baby because of how bad my pregnancy was and what I had to go through to get her here. Now that she is older and her personality has truly flourished . . . I am just so overwhelmed with how much she shines. Everyone that she is around whether it be cousins, friends . . . strangers .... love her. She has something about her that captivates people and turns the attention right to her. She has truly become funny. She gets that straight from her dad. She is always trying to make us laugh and pulling faces at us. She is also so sensitive to others. . . the other day one of our cousins baby got hurt and Araleigh started bursting into tears along with him because she felt so bad. That is just her humble and compassionate. . we love her more than anything in this world and I am SO grateful that she is apart of our family.

Primetime TV . . . . I AM NOT OBSESSED!

All the shows I love and am currently am obsessed with:

The Unit
Law and Order SVU (only)
Gossip Girl
One Tree Hill
Lipstick Jungle
Grey's Anatomy
Dirty Sexy Money'
Private Practice
24 (not currently on . . but we LOVE it!)
Samantha Who
Friday Night Lights
Prison Break (not currently watching because we missed last season . . but will catch up when it comes out!)
Desperate Housewives (also not currently watching til I catch up on last season)
Privileged

Okay, so THIS LIST is ALOT longer than I thought . . .ahahaha. This is seriously HOW pathetic I am about Primetime television. LOVE LOVE LOVE IT! I am so engrossed in most of these shows or at one time was. It was funny because Cory wanted to record something on DVR and there was ONLY 1 hour 40 minutes left .. . out of like TWO HUNDRED hours. LOL . . . yeah, that tells you that right when 8 pm EVERY NIGHT almost ......... I am sitting on the couch (of course Araleigh is in bed) watching tv and checking my blog! Funny part is . . . I watch so much tv at NIGHT you would think that I watch tv during the day ...... NEVER. I almost NEVER watch tv during the day. Probably cuz there isn't anything worth my time on during daylight hours. Anyways, just wanted to share how big of a freak I am ........... so if anyone wants any recommendations for series to rent ....... I can hook you up on whats incredible by certain plots, whether you love drama . . . intense, just plain Woman Shows or teenage dramafests!
I also wanted to state that I only have 6 more LONG awaited days til Cory and I are going to watch THE MOVIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Is anyone else so stoked??????? Well, I just have to say that Cory and I will probably be dressed up because we love it so much! ..... anyone with us??

Oh Happier Day . . . .

Well, just thought I would write that I officially had a BETTER night last night!! NO ONE woke up until 6 ............... H A L L E L U J I A ........ you have no idea what a relief that is! I also get a SMALL break today because all the kids have school today- so I will POSSIBLY get Araleigh down for a nap maybe today. Yesterday was rough . . . no naps and the two girls at each others throats. It will be good for them to have a break today. Now, I am just reading up on the wonderful venture of Potty Training .... eeeeeeeeeeek. I am so nervous. I WAS going to start her this week . . . until we had to come watch kids. So i am going to start next week when I can just sit home for a few days with her. I am not sure exactly what to do about night time? Anyone have any ideas? i am not sure whether to go get some pull ups for night time or to just jump right into panties all night. This whole procedure is what I have been dreading. I hope I can figure it out! I know she is pretty ready cuz she tells me when she goes most the time. But she still does wet a lot at night . . . so I am trying to figure that out. Anyways, ANY tips would be wonderful. I am so overwhelmed of how to approach this. But I think I will just PLUNGE in next week and figure it out. Hopefully she doesn't just look at me like I am stupid and don't know what I am doing! lol (cuz I don't) Anyways, well . . . off to referee kids and get them off to school!

Rip my hair out? . . . I think so!

This is EXACTLY how I feel about right now. My brother and his wife decided on a WHIM to skip on over to Hawaii for a week. (Yah, how would it be??? I will never know) And of course, were in a bind for sitters . . . and I was the only one pretty much AVAILABLE! Let me say, IT HAS BEEN ROUGH! Not only are we sleeping in a foreign place, which makes it EXTREMELY difficult for my child to sleep AT ALL. But I have the responsibility on getting 2 boys to school, 3 animals to figure out and two fighting Princesses to keep from freaking on each other, all doing this while trying my darndest not to get sick . . . and praying for at least an OUNCE of energy . . . which I do not have. I have 2 more days here then someone else is coming. I guess its just hard to be staying in someone elses house for a few days . . . . especially for Araleigh. Nothing is hers . . . and its just an neverending fight. I am just GRATEFUL that Cory is coming home tomorow and will hopefully be here to help me. At least when the girls DECIDE to play together . . . they usually do it fairly well. But as soon as one decides the other isn't doing what she wants . . . . its over! I have now realized that it takes a certain amount of patience and love to be able to watch other peoples kids. I don't know how people do it for a living . . . . it has completely sucked the energy out of me and this is only day 2. I am just glad I love them . . . . cuz that would be EVEN harder! lol Don't get me wrong, they are good kids. I think I am just a bad babysitter . . . probably something mostly to do with the baby baking in my belly SUCKING all life from me and turning my stomach upside down all day. Now I have to find the energy to get through another LONG night by myself . . . plus get a bunch of food cooked and prepared tomorrow for Cory's Elders Quorum party. (Which he is suppose to do, not me . . . MEN.)

I do need to mention- that I have the best mother in the world. She came all the way out here . . to say hi (probably for my sanity purposes) and I was telling her how I thought that Mrs. Powells Twist Cinnamon Roll sounded incredible .... and has for days. Well, what does she do. She went to run errands in I.F. and showed up an hour later with a box of them! She is the best! I didn't even think of her going to get any . . . . lol.

I should also mention, Cory's sister Lacey is in the hospital and she is pregnant. . . apparently something happened with her ovary and they had to take one of them. I think as far as I know the baby is fine . . . but ask that anyone who knows her keep her in mind when you pray!

Slacker . . .

So, since I have been sick . . . I have pretty much lost all thoughts whatsoever. But I did want to mention that Cory has officially finished ALL the series of Twilight. Who knew?? I personally, would like to give him a standing novation for his open-mindedness and now . . . enthusiasm for the movie coming out. I am SO glad I have him to freak out over it with . . . haha. We both are REALLY into Harry Potter and its been fun in the past to try and get first showing tickets and just get into the hype . . . well now we get to add another series onto it! I am pleasantly suprised . . but he truly does think they are great books. lol Anyways, the last week has seemed to drag on FOREVER. I think mostly because I have spent my time . . . laying around trying not to throw up . . and sleeping. You may ask the question "where is Araleigh through these times" answer: I have no idea what she does while I am past out on the couch NOT moving . . . . for any movement when I am nauseated results in toilet target training . . . with my leftovers. I have now realized that I have been a TERRIBLE mother the past 2 weeks . . and just want to make a note of thanks to:
1. DVR
2. Dora the Explorer (which LUCKILY was DVRed . . . it is ALL she wants to watch)
3. Preggie Pops
4. Bathroom doors that I can lock from the outside and she cannot get in! (this is our scary/get into LOTS of trouble room!!)
5. Pop tarts. . . for some reason I feel sick, I grab a pop tart to fill my stomach
6. A wonderful husband, who hasn't complained TOO much about a TERRIBLY messy house and willingly (after many complaints of SMELLS) does the dishes!

Although I am complaining about my preggie Whoas . . . I do have to admit that this pregnancy has been 10 MILLION times easier. My first one was SO hard . . . I literally threw up 4 times a day for the first 23 weeks . . . then after that it resorted down to 1-2 times a day . . . depending on what I ate. I will tell you I will NEVER forget working when this happened. . . I am a LOUD puker (hey, ya gotta get it all out, right?) and me sitting in a stall ................TRYING to be quiet about it was the WORST thing ever. I finally had to openly tell people that I was knocked up and not just belemic . . . seems how it was everytime I ate. I do have to say that it was nice not having to lose ANY baby weight after she was born. . . so now I am sitting here thinking about how much I will gain with this one. Araleigh I only gained 5 lbs (hence the neverending pukefest) I guess I deserved SOMETHING from it (besides a beautiful, healthy girl!) Anyways, now I am all NERVOUS to gain the weight that I am suppose to.. UGH. The things that us women have to sacrifice and go through. I wish we could just say "Okay Cory, this next one is on you!" This is how you breath . . . and the epidural really isn't that bad! .............. Wouldn't that just be THE best blessing in the whole wide world. Men have the babies ... Mothers rear them! hmmm. . . maybe in my next life and I build our own world that is how it will work! haha Anyways, enough about my rambles.

I did although, want to write a few thoughts about the election. How crazy is it that Obama truly won? Now, I KNEW it was going to happen . . . . and I will openly admit that I did not vote for him. But I will admit that when I listened to his acceptance speech I felt such a hope and sense of excitement for what is to come. . . especially for african-americans and pretty much any race. I was excited for those people who were so touched, because I, myself was touched by the power and change that has come to our country. I now only hope that all the promises made and encouraging thought received ....... will get a follow through. It is so scary when things are changed up . . I am just praying that this will take us in the direction that we need to go. I have read so many blogs and comments about this and have also come to the realization that for me and my family . . . . personally, the only leadership that we can TRULY count on and look to for guidance is our prophets, seers, and revelators. I have seen and heard SO much on this Prop 8 thing. . . and seeing all the vandalism, protesting and bashing of our dear prophet and fellow members. . . . its so hurtful. I truly am realizing that these really ARE the last days. . . I am just hoping and seeking guidance that I will be able to have the strength and courage to get through these terrible times. But I know that if the Lord wants things to happen . . . he will guide us through our prophets. What a comfort it is to know that . . . through the confusion and nerves that went through this election we can truly just look towards one leader for us personally, and that is President Monson. Although, I will support the President Elect . . . I hope that everything will turn out the way it has been promised!

Well, this was a rambling, boring post but wanted to get my thoughts out there for now. Now I am going to bed!

2 little monkeys jumping on the bed . . .

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FINALLY expecting monkey #2!!!!!!!!!

After working vigorously with our doctor . . . to which he was so awesome and aggressive. We finally got another miracle! We luckily only had to do one IUI . . I am SO thankful for that. It's always an emotional roller coaster when things just don't happen naturally . . . . but when these little miracles happen, it make me pray even harder in gratitude for these sweet spirits! I can't wait! Although, the morning sickness has hit me, once again head on AND HARD. . . and I have now found my relationship growing ever so closely (again) with the big porcelain bowl! I am slowly making it through (I think), hopefully this go around it will GO AWAY after a while. Anyways, we are excited and now are just apart of all the chain of people who are jumping on the mommy bandwagon, either again or for the first time!! It is still REALLY early . . . so hopefully nothing happens!

I am not 100% sure how far a long I am because I am not sure what my dr. will go by (because we know the date of conception, and its usually by last period) So i am around 7 wks. . . depending . . so I am going to be HUGE when it's hot. NOT FUN! But at least it won't be ALL summer like last time! Anyways, we couldn't be more excited and just want to let those people know how much we appreciate the prayers that were sent our direction. I know there were a lot! The great thing is . . . Cory's sister, Lacey is due like 3-4 wks before me so there will be lots of new and cute babies in the Arnold family to brag about!

Yay for Sunday!

Today was a good day. We went to my parents Stake Conference in support for my dad. He got put into the High Council today, and we are so excited for him. Then my mom, as always, made a massive, wonderful dinner for everyone. I hope she knows how wonderful she is. Araleigh got to play with lots of cousins again, today and we just had an over all great day . . . besides some sickness on my end. Anyways, I must also not that we are now proud owners of TWILIGHT tickets! Woot Woot! We got ours for the 21st at 4:00 - we were going to do 7 . . . but figured it would be easier for the grandparents to watch her at 4~! I AM SO STOKED! (and so is Cory! haha)
Anyways, now if only I can get into cleaning mode . . . so that I can get ready for our long trip to Utah!

All Hallows Eve

So Halloween was So Much fun this year. We started our night by taking Araleigh to the Salem Church Trunk or Treat . . . . can I just say . . . ................................WOW

That was the biggest one I have ever been to. I decided that will be the one we hit every year . . it was massive! By the time we were all done with just that one . . . she had so much candy we just ended up at my parents house, eating pizza. But the kids had a TON of fun!! I got a FEW pictures of Araleigh with the pirate hat on . . . . SHE HATED IT . . . but snapped a few. I had pictures from trick or treating . . . but assigned Cory to be official photographer . . and only like TWO came out. Funny how men can never do anything right. lol Anyways, then at 8 Cory and I went to our VERY FIRST IN OUR WHOLE LIFE TOGETHER . . . . . Costume party. It was SO much fun. Kudos to Brock . . . . who put it together. So I have to explain my costume . . . this year we didn't want to spend ANY money and had only a weeks notice to figure out something. So we thought up some lame ideas, then I remembered Cory had an old pair of scrubs. So we went at Dr. Augment(ation) and his skanky patient . . . straight from Rodeeeeeo Drive, baby. Now as most of you will know . . . (or see) I OBVIOUSLY had to dress up for the part! So, I bought be some balloons, ace bandages (I have no real cleavage, while not pregnant!), and thats the extent of what I purchased. So as you can see . . . I recieved a Breast Augmentation . . (which my dr. did a terrible job . . . they were slanted at the cleavage and a bit lopsided . . ahahaha), botox in my lips . . . . they were nice a big and plump, and a nose job (fully created by a bandaid!). So next time I go into my plastic surgeon, I will be calling Dr. Rey (Dr.90210) instead!!!! It was so much fun. We played games, got to know people . . . and SEE people whom which I haven't seen since high school . . and just had an all around great time. Who knows, maybe this will be our new tradition! Anyways, hope everyone else had a great one! I can't believe it is now THANKSGIVING! Not to mention my birthday in a week. CRAZY! Time flies so fast . . . . . now my only complaint is if I will ever get feeling better!! ;p