Most What Matters

Everybody surfin' now...

2015-05-23T13:18:00.002-04:00

We had a blast today with Free surf lessons! Check it out!

Chatbooks and Instagram- Code For First Book Free

2015-04-11T16:32:00.004-04:00

If you follow me on Instagram, you may know that I am in LOVE with a new product. I was hesitant at first because I thought it may be a commitment for someone on a budget. There are no strings attached. You can subscribe and unsubscribe as you wish. Chatbooks is a FREE app. Once you subscribe to your Instagram series, the app collects your feed with the caption and time stamp. There is one picture per page in a 60 page, high quality, photo book.

Here is what I LOVE about Chatbooks:

Flat rate per book = $6
One picture per page- 6" x 6" book
Time stamp and captions included (and easily edited for spelling errors or more/less explanation)
3 day grace period to edit the book prior to shipping
No shipping charges
Ease of use of the app
Priceless value of journaling
Joy that it brings to my boys when they get a new book and reminisce
Change the cover picture of each book
Once Instagram series is subscribed, Chatbooks will download all of your photobooks and create volumes
Volumes are numbered chronologically with dates on spine of the book
Encourages me to post more
You can exclude photos that you don't want printed!
Videos show as the still shot, if it is too blurry, toss it

Check out my son on their homepage!! So honored! ;)

FREE CODE

Rules:
The code is good for your first book free in their Instagram subscription. You MUST subscribe to the Instagram series for the code to work. Must be a first-time subscriber.

Step 1:
GO HERE (from your phone) Download the app

Step 2:
Subscribe to Instagram Series (within the app)

Step 3:
Go through your pics and edit captions, choose covers for your books and exclude any photos you do not want printed.

Step 4:
Use this code at checkout for your FIRST BOOK FREE: MOST12

Video Monday and a Cool Park

2015-03-23T23:16:00.001-04:00

A few weeks ago we explored a new park around town. G had fallen asleep early on the ride there, but we did not let that deter us. C and I had fun playing just the two of us as the baby slept in the stroller. Grateful for beautiful weather. The breeze and sunshine were mixed quite perfectly. Have a great week, friends.

A Day With C from Mostwhatmatters on Vimeo.

Chatbooks Coupon Code for a Free Book!

2015-03-23T22:34:00.003-04:00

Here is what I LOVE about Chatbooks:

Flat rate per book = $6
One picture per page- 6" x 6" book
Time stamp and captions included (and easily edited for spelling errors or more/less explanation)
3 day grace period to edit the book prior to shipping
No shipping charges
Ease of use of the app
Priceless value of journaling
Joy that it brings to my boys when they get a new book and reminisce
Change the cover picture of each book
Once Instagram series is subscribed, Chatbooks will download all of your photobooks and create volumes
Volumes are numbered chronologically with dates on spine of the book
Encourages me to post more
You can exclude photos that you don't want printed!
Videos show as the still shot, if it is too blurry, toss it

Check out my son on their homepage!! So honored! ;)

FREE CODE

Rules:
The code is good for your first book free in their Instagram subscription. You MUST subscribe to the Instagram series for the code to work. Must be a first-time subscriber. You can use this code in custom and chatbooks series as well!

Step 1:
GO HERE (from your phone) Download the app

Step 2:
Subscribe to Instagram Series (within the app)

Step 3:
Go through your pics and edit captions, choose covers for your books and exclude any photos you do not want printed.

Step 4:
Use this code at checkout for your FIRST BOOK FREE: MOST12

Music Muse Tues: Boyce Avenue, Blackbird, Say Something

2015-02-10T12:33:00.001-05:00

I can't get enough of Boyce Avenue's acoustic interpretation of songs! I absolutely could listen to their music all day. I love their original music as well! Check out some of their videos below.

Video Monday

2015-02-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

Field Day 2015 from Mostwhatmatters on Vimeo.

What could be better than attending your first child's field day on a sunny, 73 degree morning!? I brought Calvin and Gordon and we enjoyed the games, relay races and music. Calvin and Gordon even found a couple friends that were the same age to kick a ball around while I watched Oliver.

After field day, we celebrated good behavior with doughnuts, Calvin's choice. He was thrilled. I forced a cake doughnut on Gordon and he stared at it wondering what it was with the absence of icing.

Newton's Law

2015-02-07T10:00:00.000-05:00

Some thoughts from my journal:

November 19, 2014

This day and age, we are burdened not so much physically, but mentally. The ability to process emotions, thoughts, battle mental disorders and illnesses, fill voids and figure out which quick-fix to fill it with. With new diagnoses and specifications published daily. Don't forget to Compare and contrast yourself and accomplishments against the person in front of you and beside you and above/below if we are talking social media feed.

A time when it is normal to live a day in this world and feel defeated. At least that is what the world deems socially acceptable. And while you're at it, "wash down those feelings of despair and regret with one of these."

For those of us who walk the earth described as "worry-warts, planners, preppers, etc." our gait is mindfully measured, reviewed, and analyzed. And the weight of the world's biggest problems sometimes falls upon us (in our minds).

"Not only am I responsible for the physical well-being of my children, but the mental (emotional), and spiritual well-being, all while trying to let them 'be themselves' and form a trustworthy, two-sided relationship with them?"

This overwhelming feeling of impossible is all that adversity wants. Because while I'm fighting a good fight against it, my mind, emotions and physical body are too.
And here I am distracted from what anchors me.

God never intended us, as parents and siblings and friends, to prevent every bad thing from happening to our loved ones. He does want us to protect them, but not take the responsibility necessary to prevent. Teach them to "put on the armor of God." Those days when I may feel sorrow, as Nephi did. He cried out with angst and humbly admitted that he thought his adversities were most important above all, we are allowed to feel this way. We can have ups and downs and attempt to conclude with ups.

You have to wonder if Newton’s Law really applies to everything, for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. When horrible things happen, can they be prevented? And if so, will I be rewarded if I can spend my days worrying about it? The answer is seemingly not always, with a clause in fine print regarding the agency of others. The beautiful thing about our individuality is our free-agency and free doesn't mean it doesn't cost, because it has been paid for. Free refers to freedom to act and choose for ourselves. Unfortunately, Newton’s Law applies here. As much as we can act for the betterment of mankind, we can also skate on a fine line down to hell.

At some point in this mental discussion, I have to throw my hands up in the air, or rather kneel down and pass my sorrows and genuine worry-filled thoughts over to my Savior. Though he is great, he also felt those same feelings and quickly brings me back to my feet with strength.

Friday's Letters #1 2015 Series

2015-02-06T10:00:00.000-05:00

Check out the "label" or tag at the bottom of the post for some of our past Friday's letters. Hope to keep up this good habit.

Dear Florida,
I am in love with you. I know you probably realized this a long time ago. I try not to complain about weather patterns or humidity levels because the beauty and nature you possess overpower any downfalls.

Dear Gordon,
I'm not sure I've ever written to you on here so... I wish to share how much I adore your cute attempts at opposition. I almost keep a straight expression each time, but inside I'm close to laughter. It's an honor to watch you progress and help you up when you fall.

Dear Calvin,
My favorite thing you told me this week so far was this, "Mom, I don't want to go to school, because I don't want to be all alone." You shared your softer side. I'm grateful for all you do as mommy's helper and will miss you when school begins.

Dear Lover,
Thanks for working and playing so hard. At the park yesterday, I was sad when I saw a family with 3 kids our children's ages get out to play and the father stayed in the car on his phone. I know there was probably a valid explanation, but I felt super grateful that when you are with the kids, you are playing.

My sweet Oliverie,

Just keep smiling. I can't wait for that tooth to pop out! I better take more pics with all your baby teeth, because it's the last time they will all be together!!

Thankful Thursday#1 2015 Series

2015-02-05T18:00:00.000-05:00

I'm thankful for parks.
What a wonderful thing for our tax dollars. A place to gather, outside that is clean and maintained. A place to observe the things that God put on this earth to bring us joy. A place to unite as a family outside of the house! It's especially great for apartment dwellers.

I'm thankful for facial expressions.
Did you know that facial expressions come to earth with our bodies? They are not learned. If you are born blind, you still have natural expressions for happiness and anger. What a blessing it is to have a way to read other's even if some can hide how they feel easier than others.

I'm thankful for the internet!
Wow, we can connect to anyone at anytime. As invasive as it may seem, the internet does provide a way for me to work while caring for my babes.

I'm thankful for you!
If you are reading this, thanks. That makes me happy. Feel free to comment or like or offer criticism to anything on here.

C'est La Vie Friends

2015-02-04T13:00:00.000-05:00

This week has been a hot-mess kind of a week, but I haven't really noticed. Monday, my car broke down. My sis jumped it. Got home safe. Jason fixed it. Spent three hours cleaning two rooms of the house with kids (which is normally torture). Didn't even notice.

Today, walking through the library, three kids in tow (3 boys 5 and under) my perspective mattered. An umbrella stroller holding together my sanity, a thin plastic Publix bag full of books about to bust, a tired-of-waiting-and-being-strapped-down 19 month old, my purse (overpacked and heavy). We hit the threshold of "hanging out" in our new library 15 minutes prior. I just had to check out the 25 cents books for sale. Mistake.

We get to the library check out counter and attempt the self-checkout to save face, even though everyone was staring at this point. Probably wondering [read this in Jim Gaffigan's audience voice], "What is she doing? Why did she bring ALL those kids? Does she always let them walk all over her? Poor thing. She has way too many books. She has way too many kids." I fumbled. Oliver carried 5 books, Calvin 3 books. I had a couple piles myself and realized the self-checkout printed individual receipts for each book.

"No way am I standing here going through 19 books like this."

There were three employees waiting for me. Looking on and wondering the aforementioned thoughts. At least that's what I gathered from the vibe set forth. Gordon starts yelling out nonsense phrases. The soundtrack to my life lately. Oliver puts his books down and decides to climb the wooden security fixtures straight out of the 1980. Calvin was walking in circles until he fell down in laughter and dizziness and boredom. I just tried to focus on checkout procedures through the confusion.

We were done. The employees politely commented how happy the boys were, offered some more plastic grocery bags to carry my books out to the car. I took a deep breath and we were off. Then I knew Gordon did not have his "Ruh Ruh" (toy dog) that was tightly grasped in his hands and always is. It keeps him content and adds patience to his scale.

"I have to find that dog." I tried to gather the boys and they didn't want to go back into the library.

"This is possibly the most disastrous library trip that ever occurred," I dramatically let out and it was like I popped an awkward balloon, giving permission to all of my pity-party observers to let me have it.

They laughed and agreed and somehow, in that moment, I didn't cry or get offended or smolder with anger stomping all the way to my car.

I laughed too. It was comical. The whole trip. The failures are hilarious and what's more entertaining is that adversity thinks he can stop me and my disastrous trips. And that is when I realized, when I was inspired by the Spirit of God. I LOVE LIFE! C'est La Vie my friends.

Music Muse Tues: I lived

2015-02-03T23:15:00.001-05:00

This one goes way out to my sis, WhatTheAbby. Oh how I miss her and think of her everytime I hear anything about:
missions
missionaries
boston
rhode island
providence
snow
cold weather
sister
any old pictures
any cool songs
when the kids mention her name
how it will all be worth it
sacrifice

She loved One Republic through and true. She defended them, anytime I dismissed their talent. She was right.

Hope you are staying warm and sharing the love of God out there in blizzards Abbs! If you want to learn more about LDS missionaries and the message they share, email me.

Campus Book Rentals

2015-02-03T22:28:00.002-05:00

We are at is again folks. CampusBookRentals was there to rent books for the Spring semester. It was so easy. My husband typed in his required list of books on their homepage and found them easily. It was SO much cheaper than buying from the bookstore and even renting from other companies, like he has in the past. He has a lot of Science classes and do not find it necessary to keep book that will be outdated soon. Easy, affordable, and ideal!

A new trend in the college world is to rent textbooks... So this goes out to all college goers!

One reliable site we found is called CampusBookRentals.com.
Here are the perks of renting textbooks with CampusBookRentals:
-save 40-90% off of bookstore prices
-free shipping both ways
-can highlight in the textbooks
-flexible renting periods
-They donate to Operation Smile with each textbook rented
-etc...(you can find more perks at our website :)

Operation Smile is an international children's medical charity that heals children's smiles, forever changing their lives. Campus Book Rentals is keeping their partnership with Operation Smile and have committed to donate a minimum of 80 additional surgeries between June 2013 and June 2014.

They are an incredible organization that forever changes children’s lives through reconstructive cleft lip surgeries. The long-term improvement in quality of life for the children that receive these surgeries is almost incomprehensible.

They also have a new addition to their site: RentBack is new initiative that allows students to rent the textbooks they own - to other students... which is awesome because it makes you 2-4x more money compared to what they'd make through buy back options! (selling their books back at the end of the semester) Isn't that awesome?!

CampusBookRentals.com RentBack:

Let me know what you think! I would love to hear from you! I know we will be using them for the Summer semester coming up! Registration has already started for most colleges, so get going with your textbook rentals!

Playing Catch Up

2015-01-06T21:15:00.000-05:00

Is it any wonder how time seems to slip away as you begin to settle and enjoy your circumstances. I hate keeping an inspirational thought to myself, it always burrows and then almost explodes as I finally share. That's how it was on my end last week.

I am ever so grateful for the time in which we live. I am grateful for my family. Just the way it is, as far as it extends and imperfect as it stands.

These were some shots from October and November 2014. Spent time with my momma and sis at her baby shower! They are gorgeous. Calvin celebrated his 4th birthday. Oh how fun it was! It seemed barely thrown together until it happened and everything worked out so perfectly. Then I was surprised for my 30th birthday with a skit about "my life" at SAK comedy club. Completely embarrassed and surrounded my family and friends.

December was a whirlwind to put it best. We spent little time trimming the tree and almost all the rest, packing and cleaning our home to move on to the next. Any mention of the move to my friends, always followed with their personal horror stories about their last move. I was not thrilled and procrastinated a bit, but enjoyed the time packing and cleaning our home one last time. I'm not sure we will ever find a place like it again. A left a piece of my heart in my "hometown." I didn't really have time to grieve.

Now we are onto the edge of a new adventure. With things changing so quickly, I'm grateful for my family and testimony which stand as a constant foundation in my life to hang on through the storms. I hope to check-in here and there as we adjust in our new home. I love to hear from each of you too! Check out my facebook page. Leave a comment if you like what you read (or dislike I suppose).

Rock Springs and the Power to Bruise My Heel

2014-09-10T00:07:00.000-04:00

This week came as expected. I had goals for a new set of days, events written on the fridge as reminders and dishes in the sink that needed to be scrubbed. One thing wasn't expected. I hobbled around on one foot for part of Sunday and most of Monday. I am an adult, I should be aware of injuries that cause a handicap to my daily duties. I had NO idea where this pain started, but I wanted it to stop. My Achilles Tendon was so tight I had trouble bending my foot down, even with a simple step.

I searched for answers. It wasn't the sort of pain that made you cry, just annoyed and impatient. I contacted my elder brother. He responded so quickly. It was a miracle. Although I had the answers I needed to fix the problem, I wanted to know how it started, to prevent it in the future.

We spent Saturday with my mom and our church congregation at Rock Springs. It was beautiful. My mom brought her impressive photog skills and GOPRO to record our fun. She is a joy to be around. The boys couldn't wait to point out what they discovered in the crystal clear waters. The baby loved it, surprisingly. The water temperature is 68 degrees Fahrenheit on average. I wore water shoes to protect my feet, but didn't do any adventurous jumping or diving that would cause injury to my heel.

What was it? I took my brother's advice and applied ice to the location. I was amazed at the instant relief. I hobbled around, cleaned the house and completed the chores that I set out to do that day while trying to avoid this pain. I had the motivation required with missionaries coming for dinner. While at dinner, something profound came to me.

A scripture. Moses 4:21.

Satan will have the power to "bruise his [man's] heel" but man will have the power to "crush his [Satan's] head." I had a bruised heel. And who know's how I got it, but nonetheless, was I going to let it affect the rest of my day? The diligence required to complete my responsibilities? Would I let it kill my motivation, the same motivation I prayed for, hours earlier? What did it matter that I had a bruised heel. More importantly, it didn't matter how I got the bruised heel. I had the information needed to fix it. Sometimes it is better to fix it and move on.

Often, we are blinded with bruised heels, little bumps, different obstacles. How do we adjust? Have a great week, my friends.

Second First Day

2014-08-27T15:13:00.004-04:00

Today wasn't filled with as much despair as our second son began his second year of Joy School, since I was teaching this week. Next week may bring on a whole new meaning with just baby Gordon around. Calvin has made so much progress in the last couple months. We are so proud of him and look forward to many tasks mastered by the end of this school year. He is brave. He is opinionated and intelligent. He has such an appreciation for finding truth and needs explanations to aide his ever growing bank of knowledge and skills. Calvin loves nature related activities and toads are among his favorite animal, even though he may argue that the panther is his favorite (Florida boy).

Today, he was what mattered most as I prepped heavily for his lesson. I was filled with pride as he completed certain pre-school level tasks. It's difficult being number two in line. I am also number 2 in birth order.

Pictured are some lovely before school moments. I'd love to see yours. Post a link in the comments below!

From last week, brothers reunite after their 1st long day apart

Music Muse Tues: Paul Cardall and Gracie's Theme

2014-08-26T05:30:00.000-04:00

Music helps me focus when I am completing a work task. The notes activate connections in my brain, electricity that travels to the center of information processing. I wanted to share Paul Cardall's latest album, New Life. He was born with congenital heart disease and has under gone many heart surgeries, with the last being a heart transplant. He also did not play his entire life. He began at 8 with lessons and quit due to practice demands (like many people, including myself). He picked up again after a close friend was in a fatal car accident. He composed music as a result. I admire his talent. Something he has worked on countless hours to share with the world. If you have not heard of Paul Cardall, listen today! I love to play his music when company is over, on the Sabbath, when I need to concentrate on work, while typing this post... We use Spotify, but also own a few of his albums.

My new favorite composition is, "Gracie's Theme". It brings to mind the song, "Claire 'de Lune" by Claude Debussy. I could listen to it all day! Enjoy.

Video Monday: Learning to Ride the Waves

2014-08-25T05:00:00.000-04:00

Calvin and the Boogie Board from Mostwhatmatters on Vimeo.

Oliver and the Boogie Board from Mostwhatmatters on Vimeo.

Gordon and the Boogie Board from Mostwhatmatters on Vimeo.

Friday's Letters: A Personal One

2014-08-22T06:00:00.000-04:00

Year One:

Gordon,

Though this letter is somewhat late, I wanted to share the feelings of my heart now, so that they may be preserved to read at some later date. You came into our lives in time of peril. You were the light in all the darkness. Our Heavenly Father knew that we needed you at that time. Though our struggles were great, we were surrounded by so many loving people that were willing to help succor our needs. You have been blessed with such a natural patience and easy-going personality. Being the third boy in four years, this trait will continue to bless our family. Even as an infant, your personality reflected little irritation and complaining.

You love to catch our attention by exploring the trash can, putting on shoes, taking trips in the car. You are climbing anything you can to prove your adventurous spirit. Dancing and finding the beat in everyday life, always shows somehow. Even when mommy was using the sewing machine, you heard a beat and danced to it. You love to laugh and show affection. If mommy takes an extra minute to sing you to sleep, it is always interrupted by a sweet kiss.

You are highly motivated by food. You love to eat healthy things and try anything. Your favorite animals seem to be dogs and birds. You are enamored by nature. One thing is for sure, you love to play with water. You love the pool, ocean, sink, shower, bath, and toilet. Whatever the setting, there is a smile on your face if water is present.

Your older brothers love you so much. They try to include you in games and love to teach you new things. It is no wonder that you are a part of this family. You fit in perfectly. I am grateful for you, my sweet baby boy. Happy Birthday!

Cousins + Sea World Part 1

2014-08-20T12:53:00.003-04:00

I've been reluctant about letting go of summer. It meant so much. It felt like I was being forced into so many un-welcomed feelings of gloom and loneliness. It was only the first year, one of three sons, gone for most of the day, only to arrive home exhausted with no energy left to share a genuine smile or widened eyes. I still had two others to keep me busy through the day and already so much has changed. My dreaded thoughts were wrong. He did have time for mommy when he came home. We were all tired, but mustered the energy to connect and relax.

Often when strangers see the boys, they marvel at how cute their messy face is in a restaurant or chuckle at the dance they do when they don't get their way in the grocery store. Though they may be reminiscing upon their days with little ones, I always combat their comments with, "Well, you should have seen what he did today..."

Oliver was off to school and I was at an annual "boo-hoo" breakfast with friends. We shared stories and smiles and pancakes. At departure, Calvin spun into a fit demanding my phone. A friend offered to cuddle an over-tired, but mild tempered baby Gordon while I got Calvin from his seat. We walked slowly together outside. I could see that she missed those sweet baby hugs. I was grateful for the help. She complimented the boys and instead of trying to bring them down, I thought, Yes. They are wonderful. Aren't they? Why is that so bad, to just accept a compliment, Amber! I guess in appreciating my blessings, I overlooked the humbleness that can be achieved by just taking a compliment.

The summer is over. It was a full summer and now I will catch up. Catch up to schedules and to-do lists. Catch up those chores that were traded for pool time and sunshine. Below is a small taste of August.

August began with cousins! We had some quality cousin time for the boys. While anticipating the birth of the newest cousin (read more about him HERE), Grandma, Aunt Jess and Aunt Amelia brought down Aunt Sarah and Uncle Steven's boys (2/3). We met at Sea World. It was a scorcher. Nana joined us. All I can recall from the day is the temperature. Hot and Humid. We usually hit up the parks in the afternoon, but going early allowed us time for a nice swim! The younger walrus was especially playful with the boys. They have never been so interactive. I hope they remember these things.

Florida Beaches

2014-08-19T16:04:00.000-04:00

The beach was too distant this summer. We missed it, so we made up for it by spending quite a few days in a row basking in the sun, learning to boogie board, eating sand, collecting shells, chasing birds, listening to the power of the waves, gulping down too much salt water, and enjoying un-plugged family time. Here are so photos from our journey.

The first 5 photos are of a late afternoon trip to Melbourne Beach, FL. We loved it! The sand is perfect, plenty of shells. The waves were not too crazy. Jason taught our eldest (5 yrs old) to boogie board! The storm pictured did roll in around 6:30, so we left for some Friday night pizza.

All but the sunset pictures are from Jacksonville Beach. I loved this beach! It was perfect for kids and surfers. The tide didn't affect our experience either! There was so much room. The beach seemed to be at the most slight incline even when in the water. We were close to the Jacksonville Beach Pier. The lifeguards were informative when the surf was rough. We paid $1 each for adults (small children were Free) to walk up and down the pier. We even saw a man catch a shark. He held it for us to touch. We explored the beach at night and it was just as peaceful. Most of one side of my family hails from Jacksonville Beach. I couldn't help, but feel a connection there. Jacksonville Beach = Highly Recommended!

We loved visiting our family that lives there too! More on that soon!

Day 1, Kid 1: Kindergarten

2014-08-18T16:20:00.000-04:00

We moped around the house aimlessly for awhile this morning. Usually, Mondays are the busiest of the week, with chores to complete and a schedule to keep. With Daddy and Oliver gone, we were sort of lost. We couldn't sleep last night! Everyone awoke for different reasons through the night, but I just wanted today to go perfect for my courageous little kindergartner.

I interrupted his prayers last night when I crept in to give him a little pep-talk, (cram in every last well wish for him). I almost lost it as I saw him on his knees speaking aloud to the Lord. I told him about my excitement for his new adventure and he exclaimed, "I have to go to school tomorrow?" He hadn't shown any signs of reluctance up to this point. I answered, "Yes. Just like Norman." His eyes widened and smile grew. "Mom, do I have to be in second grade to be in Norman's school?" Gosh, I caught my breath and tried to hide my emotions. I missed them too. "No, they live too far, buddy." He stopped me on the way out, "Mom, can you take a picture of everything you do with Calvin while I'm gone? I will take a picture with my brain and tell you all about it when I get home."

I quickly let out all of my tears as I repeated the story to my love. It needed to come out. I had been so nostalgic the past week. It wasn't healthy to hold these things in. Only he could validate those feelings, as he has been right there with me.

What a sweet reassurance it was to have our eldest son attend school where his daddy works. It also seemed silly for me to drag everyone into the crazy traffic of the first day of school in our county. I snapped a few pictures, packed a lunch, and he was off. Off with my heart on his sleeve. Off with the courage and teachings we hoped he carried in his heart. Off with a chapter in my life, that is now closed. A very good chapter, filled with the craziness of having three boys in four years.

Chatbooks and Instagram- Code For First Book Free

2014-07-30T11:53:00.004-04:00

Here is what I LOVE about Chatbooks:

Flat rate per book = $6
One picture per page- 6" x 6" book
Time stamp and captions included (and easily edited for spelling errors or more/less explanation)
3 day grace period to edit the book prior to shipping
No shipping charges
Ease of use of the app
Priceless value of journaling
Joy that it brings to my boys when they get a new book and reminisce
Change the cover picture of each book
Once Instagram series is subscribed, Chatbooks will download all of your photobooks and create volumes
Volumes are numbered chronologically with dates on spine of the book
Encourages me to post more
You can exclude photos that you don't want printed!
Videos show as the still shot, if it is too blurry, toss it

Check out my son on their homepage!! So honored! ;)

FREE CODE

Trust

2014-07-30T00:53:00.001-04:00

I'm not sure how those sweet messages humble me so quickly, but whenever I need a better perspective, the Holy Spirit whispers truths to me and leaves me with such peace as I watch them. They brought me here so late tonight, though.

Our lives are approaching another turning point. Soon, our oldest son will leave the comfort and care of us 24-7 to attend school. No, he is not going to boarding school, but my heart aches now, thinking about the possibility of never seeing him or his loss in interest for me and the rest of the family. I know he needs to grow up, that this will be good for him and me and everyone. I know that he will do fine. I know this step is necessary, but knowing these things doesn't always bring the comfort that you need. The comfort I need comes from the knowledge of my Savior Jesus Christ. It comes from the purpose of life. Of where we are going. There are a million things to worry about when you do not have faith in Christ. I have to remind myself of this frequently.

Our family watched a favorite movie recently called, Nim's Island. I heard a quote that has been ringing in my ears ever since, "Trust is the key to adventure." My husband candidly throws the nickname "Adventure Amber" at me when I am behaving just the opposite. I have been working on this weakness and that silly movie brought such truth.

Trust.

I just need to trust more. I feel like I have always been taught to avoid trust. This will keep your heart safe. You will be free of the aches and pains that may result if trust broken. Trust seems to be the foundation of relationships. Without it, what defines the relationship? Trust also works hand in hand with humility. For, if you do not trust others, you are seemingly independent of another's help. Accepting help is a part of humility.

I hope to show more trust in those around me. More trust in the Holy Spirit I have been blessed to receive after baptism. More trust in my own thoughts and plans and ideas. And I hope you see a change. A good one.

Friday the 13th

2014-07-11T17:08:00.002-04:00

Hello Blog World! I came across this journal entry in my phone from almost a month ago! I can't believe it has been a month.

June 13th:

Drove 15 under the speed limit tonight. So many times, I drove down that road over the speed limit, racing to get somewhere. A place so many have called home over the years.

Listen to your heart came on the radio. The lyrics applied, sort-of.
The kids chattering faded into the song.

I am sad.

Not sad because of change. Change is good. Sad because knowing that someone who would do anything for me or a member of my family, is moving more than a day's drive away, which really translates into $$ between us. Sad because our kids may grow apart as they will be forced to make other friends, sad because I always dreamed of raising my family close to our family and now it seems we are going where life takes us. We are all led down different paths that should lead us back together for eternity. So really, I shouldn't morn this day. Friday the 13th. I should cherish the moments of the past and look forward to the future.

**All these pictures are from recent Cousin events. =)

Music Muse Tues: Happy By: Pharrell Williams

2014-06-17T22:59:00.001-04:00

Are you HAPPY today? Why not? What stops you from being happy? (Okay, maybe some of you answered, "Yes." Good for you =)

I love Pharrell's song, "Happy!" It makes me smile thinking of the title. No, I am not in the dark about the release date of this song (My kids LOVE Despicable Me 2), but I wanted to share this song today because it is so relevant to my life.

If you Google, "Happiness," Wikipedia will tell you that happiness is, "a mental or emotional state of well-being characterized by positive or pleasant emotions ranging from contentment to intense joy."

President Monson shares in an article, “Happiness is the object and design of our existence; and will be the end thereof, if we pursue the path that leads to it; and this path is virtue, uprightness, faithfulness, holiness, and keeping all the commandments of God.” -Joseph Smith

He also goes on to share this:

"A favorite poem of mine gives to each of us the challenge:

Stick to your task ’til it sticks to you;
Beginners are many, but enders are few.
Honor, power, place and praise
Will come, in time, to the one who stays.
Stick to your task ’til it sticks to you;
Bend at it, sweat at it, smile at it too;
For out of the bend and the sweat and the smile
Will come life’s victories, after awhile. "

Some people are always in search of happiness. Others know right where it's at. How can we become more happy? Happy with our circumstances, with our adversity, our trials, our "Epic Fails," our disappointments in life? The answer that always rings true in my experience is to rely upon our Creator, our Heavenly Father. It may be best to actively seek the good in all things. Push the bad stuff aside, leave it behind and press forward.

Have a HAPPY day bloggers! And enter my GIVEAWAY while you're at it! You can always gift these gorgeous and much sought after Moccs!