Christmas 2007

The Rules of Chocolate

Since this time of year is always a little stressful and we all know that eating chocolate is a DE-stresser. So...here are the Rules of Chocolate:
1. If you've got melted chocolate all over your hand, you're eating it too slowly
2. Chocolate covered raisins, cherries, orange slices and strawberries all count as fruit, so eat all you want.
3. The problem: How to get 2 pounds of chocolate home from the store in a hot car - the Solution: Eat it all in the parking lot
4. Diet tip: Eat a chocolate bar before each meal. It will take the edge off your appetite and you'll eat less.
5. A nice box of chocolate can provide your total daily intake of calories in one place....isn't that nice?
6. If you can't eat all your chocolate, it will keep in the freezer, but if you can't eat all your chocolate, what's wrong with you?
7. If you eat an equal amount of dark chocolate and white chocolate, isn't that a balanced diet? Don't they counteract each other?
8. Money talks, chocolate sings!
9. Chocolate has many preservatives that will make you look younger
10. If not for chocolate, there would be no need for control top panty hose, and an entire industry would be devastated.
11. Q: Why is there no such organization as chocoholics anonymous? A: Because no one wants to Quit!
12. Put "Eat Chocolate" at the top of your list of things to do today. That way at least you'll get one thing done!

Enjoy and have a good laugh....we all definitely need that!

The Armies of Helaman!!

Boy, today was an awesome day at the temple. Savannah and myself went to the 10:00 session. Today, it must have been a zone activity or something, because there were a lot of missionaries there....mostly Spanish speaking (not necessarily Spanish!). In fact, there were only 4 rows of women and the rest of the seats were filled with these strapling warriors...the missionaries of this area. It was a wonderful experience. They were reverent, attentive and you could feel something special there today. I kept wanting to hum the song: "We are as the armies of Helaman"......"We will be the Lord's missionaries to teach the world his truth!"

Happy Dance

Last night around 11:00, Savannah and I took a little trip to the post office! Boy, Aaron...you sure missed out having fun with us as we stuffed, stamped and licked our way thru the piles of envelopes! I'm sure you would have been there at the table with us....right? It's done and now to the next major "to-do".....somewhere, we have got to start our Christmas fun!!




Aly has been struggling with an "upper respiratory infection"....aka...what everyone else has. She's been on a few meds since Monday. Last night she had an allergic reaction to something. We haven't seen anything quite like it. It was a swollen rash all down her legs, her arms and neck. WEIRD!! Poor thing was burning up and itching up quite a storm. Aly wouldn't let us take pictures, so you don't get to see it. She is once again, staying home from school and has officially decided that being sick for a long time "isn't very much fun!!" DUH!!

"It's beginning".......

to look like Christmas - look at all the packed streets - it's a real test of our patience and love for others
OR
to look like a December Wedding - right now our house is covered with invitations, maps, all sorts of fun things - aren't you excited to get one of these gems in the mail?

to feel like Christmas - has everyone taken time to feel Christmas - maybe by doing good for someone, thanking our Father for our blessings
OR
to feel like a December Wedding - crunch time - not panic time - is upon us. It's a wonderful feeling!!

It was an Expensive Lunch!!

OK....a story to laugh about.....later.
I decided to call Brad up for Lunch. We decided to meet at the Quiznos by his office. So, I drive over there and I see a "3-Hour" parking sign. Great! I can do that. So I park and wait for Brad. We had a nice lunch and then I offered to drive him back to the office. We went out to my car and lo and behold, there is a ticket on my windshield!! No, that can't be....it hasn't been 3 hours. I look at the sign again and I see (for the first time) a second sign right underneathe. It says: Handicapped Parking only. Oh NO!! I look at the amount and about started to cry. Brad is VERY, VERY good and doesn't say a thing, mainly because he can see how bad I feel and he feels just as bad! We went to talk to the nice police lady, but she wouldn't budge. She did point out that if I paid it in 7 days, the fine was substantially lower. And as Brad said: "That was an expensive Lunch!!"

Happy Birthday Jenny

We sure hope the newest member of the Weech family has a great day. We love you Jenny!!

10 things I'm THANKFUL for..........

10. A nice hot jacuzzi at the end of a day...to help me relax and fall asleep
9. Stores that stay open at all hours and most days to help people like me. I must have gone to Walmart 5 times....for odds and ends and at the last, a frisbee!
8. Our wonderful home where we can have our family and friends over to enjoy an afternoon or a wonderful reception.
7. The gorgeous weather we have been having in Arizona. It was too hot to eat outside for Thanksgiving dinner, but just right to have a very intense game of soccer afterwards!
6. Our wonderful friends....I can't begin to explain how important they are to us! Most of our friends and some in particular are considered our family...they are that wonderful!!
5. Our grandparents - especially when they are asked to "change traditions"....that can be hard and scary....thank you so much for trying something new at your age!!!
4. Aaron's willingness to befriend anyone...and help others celebrate Thanksgiving. You will need to read his blog for all the details....he is VERY detailed! We love him and hope he doesn't freeze too much! We are so proud of him and also very thankful for a wonderful girl - Savannah - who makes him smile and loves him! Their wedding is just around the corner!!
3. Tyler and Jenny's decision to be sealed in the temple. They are having a blast...where ever they may be and we are SOOOOO happy for them!!
2. The rest of my family - Jacque, Aly and my best friend, Brad. They don't hardly get any credit for the wonderful dinners and socials we have at our house. They are the "behind the scene" crew. They help, run errends and put up with my bouts of stress. They clean, run errends (yes, I said that twice), and still look wonderful when the guests arrive. They are my super heroes. I love them dearly and count them as my dearest treasures!
1. The gospel of Jesus Christ - how wonderful it is. Our family is blessed because of the gospel. We have purpose and direction in our lives because of the gospel. Our dearest treasures are ours eternally because of the Gospel. My life is complete because of the Love of our Savior, His sacrifice and the restoration of His church.

WARNING!!

As of today, there is another teenage driver on the roads. We just wanted to warn all our friends, family and anyone else driving that one, Aly Weech, is now an official driver.....FINALLY!!! She passed her permit test (no, she didn't break Jacque's record) and has already connived her mom into letting her drive the MXD. Actually, Aly didn't do that bad and not once did I scream at her or for her to slow down, watch out or be careful. She did quite well. This is, of course, just a friendly warning (to all who may see a car swerving a bit to stay in the middle of her lane), to move over, speed away or just stay off the road!

A Perfect Day

Boy, I wish I had pictures. Most everyone that reads this was there, but pictures speak a thousand words. I thought Tyler and Jenny's day was near perfect. The sealing was special and full of wonderful counsel. Tyler and Jenny were perfect as they came out of the temple.....happy, in love and excited to be Mr. and Mrs. The reception was beautiful....ONLY because I have the best, most talented friends in the world. I also have family who will pitch in, help and do anything needed. (It doesn't get better than that!!) I can't wait to share some pictures...so for now....it was a picture perfect evening. Congrats go out to Tyler and Jenny....where ever they may be ( I know!) Know that as our family and friends....we love you, we appreciate you and thank you for sharing our very special day.
.................. now on to #2!!!!!!

Are we having any fun?

The answer is YES!! Our home is a "happening" place and it's coming together beautifully. My to-do list is actually quite hilarious, but I have over 24 hours....and I know that Jenny's is longer, so I shall not complain! My favorite part - besides knowing that Tyler and Jenny are being sealed in the temple - is the excitement of family and friends mingling together in our home. That brings me so much happiness. Come one, come all....IT'S A PARTY!!!!!

UNDEFEATED!!

Aly's season with GYSA has come to a close. Her team was undefeated AND won the SPORTSMANSHIP award. I'm thinking those other teams are probably a little miffed, but Aly was excited to be on a winning team. She played against some tough players!! Of course, in a couple of weeks, we start HHS's season.....it never ends!!

I am alive!

For all those wondering if I'm out of bed...the answer is yes. J/K!!! It seems the "to-do" list is getting longer and longer and longer and the days are getting shorter and ....well, you get the picture. We are definitely down to the last minute details and I'm hoping that there aren't any biggies that I've forgotten. I have such great friends (and family, of course!) They are all pitching in and helping and it's going to be a great party. Just thought I would let everyone know that planning two "open houses" CAN be fun, is fun and best of all, I get two beautiful daughters-in-law as the result. LUCKY ME!!

CONGRATS to Aly!!!!!

Aly has been at try-outs for HHS soccer all week. She found out today that she has MADE THE JV TEAM!! So, taking after Tyler, we have another High School Soccer player....hopefully she doesn't break any bones!!

Our Halloween Helper

Isn't she cute?? Cute as a button....no wait...it's a penguin. Savannah, all decked out, was the designated passer-outer of all candy at Grammy's house. Everyone knows what a job that is!! Savannah played the part, loved all the costumes and had fun "treating" the kids to a cute character. We all teased her about keeping the costume for Vermont, where it would keep her warm...but she reminded us that Aaron was there.....ahhhhhh

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

Brad and I have definitely moved into the "old" people category. All our kids are gone, out to parties and no one is left to pass out candy. Not that we have alot. Maybe 20 or so, mainly from the ward. It's fun to visit with those that come by. Thanks Brinton for making us smile!! Jacque and Aly were very, VERY creative this year with their costumes. Aly chose to be a vampire from the very popular series "Twilight" and Jacque was a gangsta-girl from the 20's. I'm thinking they are both very....hmmmm.. what's the word??? Provacative?? YIKES! Aly even went to the NEST, a scary haunted house out at Schnepf Farms. Jacque partied all night....I am old...I went to bed!

Vermont Roadtrip

Visiting Vermont

So, as many know, Savannah and myself are on a rescue mission. Aaron is feeling and looking much better. He is still not up to par. How do I know this?? Because his appetite is nothing like I remember. I think he has lost over 15-20 pounds since he left Arizona. Each day, Savannah gets the paper and online ads out and we scour them for apartments and jobs. We are still looking for both, but an apartment they looked at last night is very promising. Today is job hunting day and a trip to costco for Aaron. He hasn't said much, but we all know he is very excited to have his car. It's a beautiful state and I can't wait to post some pictures. I sure miss everyone and all the excitement as we get closer to the FIRST wedding!! We are both flying home tomorrow evening. We have a lot of do before that!!
Have a great day and love to all
Dena

Happy Anniversay to Us!!

Well, it's been 20 years since Brad and I were married. We celebrated on an Alaskan Cruise, so on Tuesday (the 16th) it was pretty low-key. Brad woke up with a sore throat and we were having a RS Enrichment activity at our house in the evening. After going to the temple, I picked Brad up and we had a wonderful lunch at Red Lobster. He is still my "everything"!!

Sedona - Part 1

This past week, Jacque went to Sedona to participate in a Photography Workshop. She was trained and taught by an international photographer and also got to be a model for the shoot. She had a lot of fun and learned much about light, lines and compostition. This is one of the pictures she shot of Cosette, the other model.

My Gorgeous Daughter!!

This one was taken by Dani Wheeler, Matt's wife. She was complimented on her great composition techniques

Sedona - Part 3

This is her favorite of her, taken by Dani

It's Crazy over Here!!

It's been awhile since I've posted anything. This past week has flown by. I traveled to Vegas on Tuesday and back on Wednesday evening for the funeral of Cindy's Mom. What a wonderful lady! Got back in time to help Savannah pack, weigh her baggage and get her ready for a 6:00 a.m. flight on Thursday to Vermont. That Thursday was also cannery day. Jacque informed me that she needed a wedding dress..............

I'll let you think about that one for a minute.

OK....she is going to Sedona this coming Tues/Wed. for a bridal shoot where she is the model. So we needed to find her a cheap wedding dress (under $150) We accomplished that and now have a dear friend who will help us to make it modest! That is tomorrow's goal. Meanwhile............

Friday, I was able to go to the temple and met Cindy there for a session. It was also a 1/2 day for Aly, as it is now the beginning of Fall Break. Saturday was spent catching up on housework, panicking over wedding details I have not yet done and watching conference...which I desparately needed in my life. Also, that evening, was Aly's much anticipated soccer game with the team that bullies her at school. Even with 5-6 players missing, they were able to keep their undefeated season going! Way to go Aly!!

Here's a picture of the $150 wedding dress. I had to make some minor adjustments so that it would fit, but it doesn't look half bad!!

Cancer

Sometimes, in the fast pace hectic life we lead, we forget about some of the important lessons we have already learned (or should have learned). Today, a dear friend, gave me the following post in a newspaper clipping. It reminded me of some of the lessons I've learned thru the great teacher of Cancer. I thought I would share it with you. Please laugh and then know that the many prayers and much faith on my behalf are greatly treasured. I don't take my health lightly and I enjoy each day (well, not so much the hectic parts!) I consider myself a walking miracle, not because I'm more loved by my Heavenly Father but because I have more to learn in this life, I have the faith of many family and friends beside me and the love of my family that sustains me each and every day. How I love you all!!

All I ever really needed to know,

I learned from Cancer.....

The "Big C" stands for courage * There is no such thing as a bad hair day * Hope is just a prayer in disguise * Anger is an emotion best chewed up and spit out * A positive attitude is a choice * The only thing that makes chemo bearable is humor * Some doctors and nurses really do care * Peace is a state of mind for your heart * Scars build character * If you don't think God is listening, try praying louder * If you don't stand up for yourself, no one else will * Cancer is God's way of telling you to prioritize * Some people will run from cancer - your true friends will stay and help you fight * Hair is really just a fashion accessory * Take care of yourself from the inside out * If people stare at you - smile! * Inner strength and character are the yin and yang of life * Sometimes it is not how fast you run the race, but how high you jump the hurdles.

(credit for most of this goes to Laura Montomery)

FHE Fun

Yes, this is part of the Harris family, Aly and Jacque (her one eye) having fun on Jacque's MAC. The Harris's joined us for dinner and some fun games tonight for FHE. After playing Who Stole the Cookies and Signs, we watched a video from 1999 when our two families went to San Diego. They are so funny and small and goofy looking....even Tyler, Aaron, Emilee and Aimee were in the video and we sure got some great laughs! Thanks Daniel, Ashlee, Kellie, Maili and Lindy for making our night lots of fun!! Our thoughts and prayers are with Cindy and Dan tonight :)

New Do

Yes, as the ward now says: "I've been Roperized"
......meaning that Shelley Roper cut my hair and
gave me a new look! I'm not sure I like it as of yet.
Jacque had to help me fix it up, but I sure got a lot of compliments on it.


Here's another view...what do you think??

Aaron's Latest.......

Here's the latest on Champlain. It's rated pretty high...one of the best. It must be a real college after all. Of course, most of you probably know Aaron's latest escapades. He is really trying to have a full college experience. Riding in an ambulance, going to the hospital and realizing that roommates aren't so bad. What a fun time he is having. Refer to his blog for all the gruesome details. Gave Savannah quite a scare. You should have seen her trying to find someone to help Aaron. I almost had to tie her down so she wouldn't get on the next plane to Vermont! (Just kidding on that part...she is going to kill me!) But he seems to be doing better and drinking more liquids. What will he think of next??

To be continued, I'm sure!!

OK...See this pressure cooker?? It's being used for the very first time. Yes, I'm ashamed that I've had such nice cookware, and not used it. Look at the can??!!?? Black beans from my year supply. Yes, it is true. I cooked black beans from year supply and used them....really. In a wonderful recipe. I am quite proud of myself and now feel I can actually use a pressure cooked without it blowing up in my face. BTW, my black-bean salsa was to die for. It is so yummy.

Here's the Recipe:

Chop in blender:

1 Bunch green onions, 4-6 cloves garlic and 1/2 C. cilantro leaves

Add:

2-15 OZ. cans fire roasted whole peeled tomatoes ( I used tomatoes with garlic and they were chopped up), 1-4 OZ Can chopped green chilies, 2-3 fresh jalapeno Peppers

Chop in blender until desired consistency.

Add:

2 C. Cooked and drained black beans

chill 2-4 hours...THIS IS YUMMY~!!!!!!!

Exercise

Yesterday marked the first full week of my commitment to better eating and exercising. I think I did pretty good. I exercised each day (with a rest day on Sunday) and really watched my snacking. No snacking in between meals is NOT fun!! Unfortunately, today (Friday) I did not get to the rec center to exercise. I cleaned my house, mopped floors, cleaned off the porch and washed windows. Does that count? :( So, I'm thinking that tomorrow (Saturday) I will go twice..that is my commitment. HMMMMM What have I done??

My Favorite Day!!

Today, I went to the temple. I do every Tuesday, but today I realized something. It's very easy for me to go right now. I have a promise to keep, it's close and the time I choose to go fits my schedule. At the 9:30 a.m. session, there are 2 older women who are always there. One is deaf, so we have a different type of session. She is there EVERY Tuesday. The other woman is also handicapped. I'm not sure of all her struggles, but there are many and it takes 2 workers to help her thru. This is my thought: Would I be just as willing to go each week if I had a disabliltiy or if it wasn't such a convenience for me?? Would I be willing to accept help each time I went? Would I be as consistent if my body wasn't working up to par?? I don't know these answers. I do know that these 2 women are examples to me. I want to be that dedicated when I grow up!!

Soccer has Begun!!

Yes, Aly's favorite time of year has finally begun. She is playing U-19, Co-Ed. It's very physical. She is on a great team with a good coach.....finally!! I think there should be an award for parents who watch soccer in the middle of the afternoon. It was very hot. But of course, we were under an umbrella and sipping lots of water. They played hard and came out the winner, 7-1. It sure is fun to watch. This was a shot taken (by our professional) right after the ball hit Aly under the throat. Didn't knock her down, tho...she is one tough cookie!!

More Lawn Duty

This is Aly having way too much fun. She is trying to get a tan, listening to her favorite tunes and making brownie points with her dad. Best of all, she can brag to all her friends how she mows the lawn and does quite a great job!! Go Aly!!

Lawn Duty

This is "MD" Park. What does MD stand for? Million Dollar. Yes, this 2 acres of grass is VERY expensive. The owners are far, far away. So, as a small neighborhood, we take turns mowing the grass, so that is stays nice and we can use it as our very own private Park....hence, MD Park. Can you see who is driving the lawn mower?? This is our very own Aly, who loves to take her turn, cranks up her IPOD, and makes sure she has her phone in her pocket in case she needs to text the house for a drink...yes, she did that!

Alaskan Cruise

"After" Shot

My, what a difference a haircut can make. She doesn't even look the same, but I have to admit it's very chic and makes her look quite the college girl. WOW!! This is the "After" shot...if you already didn't know!

"Before" Shot

OK...this is the "Before" shot. Jacque is very excited to get a drastic hair-cut and color. Mom is not so excited, but looking forward to Jacque's new look.

Bunco

Once a month I go to a Bunco Group, which consists of 12 ladies from our ward, whom I consider my very dear friends! This is a fun night, as we eat dinner and play a game. This game is with dice. Now, from sad experience, I have learned that I am absolutely terrible at this game. I have never won, nor received one of the top prizes....oh wait, one time, I did get a prize for the "most losses". Yes, there is a prize for the biggest loser. Why do I go? Because I really enjoy the friendship of these ladies and they crack me up as they scream...literally....when they get a Bunco. What is a Bunco? It's rolling all the dice the same number when you are on the same number. So that roll deserves a scream. Funny thing is, I don't roll those. So, last night, when I did, I didn't scream. I went..."oh wow...a bunco". This cracked everyone up because I was so calm. They have decided that I'm not a very exciting player. As one of the "middle" players, I picked out a different gift. This is from Africa and is symbolizes a couple holding on to each other. I'm giving this to Aaron and Savannah. It's very unique and only one made. The man that makes these does it for a living over in Mozambique. I thought it was cool!

Aaron's Home

So, this is where Aaron calls home. My, he has some wonderful stories to tell. He is the ONLY LDS member on campus. The closest "grocery store", if you can call it that, is 2 miles away (mind you, he doesn't have transportation). But I think he is enjoying the cold and the scenery. The following picture is where he is staying...Spinner Place. It is actually 7 stories tall and he is staying on the 7th floor.

Cannery Assignment = Physical Activity

OK, I'm thinking that 4 hours of canning at the cannery counts for toning muscles. Up and down, carrying 4-5 lb cans, picking up boxes and delivering them from car to house. Does this count?? I'm thinking it does. So, I've done both cardio (my good ol' treadmill) and weight training.
3 Days in a row.....whoo hoo!!

Exercise

OK...whoever said that exercising is good for the body is crazy (and probably thin!). I've set a new goal and let it be known that I'm going to change my body style and physical well-being. But my legs are shaky, my backs needs a rub and I'm tired. My goal is to be physically active 6 days a week. A little much, you may say for someone my size?? Yep, it is, but drastic times calls for drastic measures. I'll keep you posted.

Ahhh!

This is Jenny Broby. She makes Tyler smile even when she isn't around.......which isn't very often. Mark your calendars....Nov. 17th for the wedding. Dec. 1st for the reception in Yuma. We couldn't be happier for both of them. Tyler proposed and made it official up on Mt. Graham...a special place since that is where Brad asked me to be his eternal companion!

New Beginnings Part 2

What you say?? Another ring? Another wedding? Another daughter-in-law? Another wonderful day to be a part of? YES to all of the above. Tyler asked Jenny to marry him up on Mt. Graham this past weekend. They are planning to get married in the AZ temple. What a exciting time we are going to have in the Weech family!!

WOW - Savannah

Thought I would add a picture of the ring....it's a beauty and she loves it...what else matters??

New Beginnings

This is Savannah. Look how happy Aaron is! Yes, they are engaged to be married. The date is December 29, 2007. Why the wait you ask? Right now, Aaron is in Vermont, Champlain College to be exact. So, after a semester, he will return to sweep Savannah off her feet and they will head to Las Vegas to be married..... in the temple, of course!!

OK, so it's been awhile since I started this blog. I'm not very computer literate, so it's going to be a very long process. But I have the basics up. I'm working on the rest. I have some very good stories to tell, so have patience with me!!