Merry Christmas!

It looks as though my "Christmas" card will be more of a "Happy New Year" card... so until then... here's a little peek at the family... Thanks to all of you who've sent your cards! It's been so fun to catch up! loves to all of you! I'll be getting that card out soon!

The Christmas card

I am so excited for my Christmas card this year. It is a little silly, but fun. I am having a crazy week, so I am shooting to have it "done" and sent this weekend. (It may be sent from California the rate I am going, but it will be sent.) I love Christmas cards, especially receiving them. I also, in a strange way, love writing them. It gives me a moment to recap the year. (Although this year has been a challenging one).
We are trying to remember all the blessings of the year. Like, Derek found a great job. We sold our home quickly, and without a realtor. We had a beautiful baby girl (Miss Kiley -dimples- Ann) join our family. And her little foot is doing awesome!! We found a beautiful home in Idaho, and the kids are doing well in school. And although we miss our family and friends, like crazy, we've started to make some great "new" friends. Life is wonderful. We are blessed. Challenges make you grow, even though I am still so short (according to Zach.) I love receiving your cards. Your families are beautiful, and your messages inspiring. Merry Christmas everyone!! I love this time of year! Keep those card coming!! love to all of you!

Christmas!

So we only have 14 more days! For my family, I say, we only have 8 more days! We are keeping it simple this year - atleast that is my claim. It has to be somewhat simple, since we will be "away" for the holidays = Christmas week in California, and New Years Week in Utah! Fun!

I am missing all of you, my dear friends and family, right now. This weekend we are going to "attempt" to throw our annual Christmas party. I am sad, as I am missing those who yearly attend. I know I am going to miss: funny comments from Dustin and Nat, Sarah and Chris entertaining the crowd, Brian Millers "nice" white elephants, My brother or sister (I don't kow who brought them) dirty little mexican white elephants, Krista Barker being embarassed by some of the white elephants, Derek "wowing" everyone with his LATEST game, (Erin was always impressed - hee hee, this year we are just using an old one) , I could go on and on.. I am now kicking myself that I didn't just grin and bare it and have the party last year! If I could go back, my funny friends, I'd be all over it! You are all invited to come this weekend. We have found a nice family to do the Sub-for-Santa. That is always such a highlight of the holiday season.

When I start to hear my kids (and myself) say I want.... then I am reminded of those who really want, really need things. Even with all the chaos and changes over this last year I am reminded that our family has been blessed so much! I hope that I get our Christmas card out this year. I am trying to - it may be a happy new year card instead.... Hope your 2008 ends great! We love you! And I hope to get cards from ALL OF YOU!! loves... me

Thanksgiving

Here are my 6 greatest blessings that I am MOST thankful for!!

I am also VERY thankful for:

T - Testimony

H - Health

A - All my blessings

N- New Home, New beginnings

K - Kiley - that she joined our family this year

F - Family

U- Unanswered prayers

L - Laughter - it is the best medicine!

We stayed in Boise for Turkey day. It has been nice ( yes and a little lonely) but nice. We have been counting our blessings: Some include: Family, friends, gospel, health, home, star wars and light sabers, babies, toys, ... It's been our year to remember to stop and count our blessings: amidst the hardships we have been VERY blessed this year! Thank you to all of you who bless our lives, we are so thankful for you! Happy Turkey Day!!

Things that make you go HMMMMMMM

You know that great song (ha ha) from the 80s "things that make you go hmmm" Well, we are living it right now... Here's the story:

We needed to be in Utah last Friday for Kiley to go to Primary Childrens. (Kiley had her foot looked at, and all is well. We are now only required to wear her shoes at night! Hooray!) Back to the story.... The kids didn't have school Thurs/Fri, so I decided to leave Wed. That morning, I exercised ... but was feeling rushed so I only did it 30 minutes. Anyway, this is important because when I came downstairs I heard water running, not a good sound, and as I followed the rushing water sound I was greeted by a flowing waterfall out of the toilet!! (Our toilets have had issues - ALL 4 of them! UG!!)

Anyway, after FREEKING OUT, I had to find the plunger! The first bathroom had a plunger, unfortunately the door is locked (thanks Zach), and little Emily-is on the toilet waiting for me to wipe her, she is locked in and screaming, thanks again Zach. The next bathroom has no plunger. Finally in the last bathroom I find our other plunger and sprint downstairs to the waterfall. With plunger in hand, I stop the water and then mop up the floor using almost every towel I can find. (I think I counted 10) After I finally got the floor dry, no more "running" water sound, I hear the "screaming sound" yes, it was Emily I forgot to save her from her toilet prison!OOPS!

Unfortunately -all of the floor is wood..... Fast forward to Sunday evening. We arrived home from Utah (gone5 days) to find the floor BUCKLED! The entire bathroom, into the hallway and even into the kitchen! Two board in the kitchen are the most damaged - weird.

Fast forward - Monday called the insurance co. they sent over a restoration company. Tues. they ripped up my floor, made a plastic room and started the engines (FANS).. So, since Tues. we have been living in an air terminal!! A CONSTANT hmmmmmmmm fills our house, not a quiet hmmm but a LOUD hmmmm, so loud that we now all yell at each other. Luckily, the floor guy came by tonight, and said that we will be done tomorrow! HOORAY!!

Next step, new floors... which will require us to leave for 3 days, while they refinish and stain... FUN FUN FUN! So these are the .... Things that make you go hmmmmmmmm!!! I am ready for the Hmmm to stop. I went to the library today and just sat there enjoying the "quietness." So tonight, as you tuck those kiddos in bed, and listen to the "silence of sleeping" I will cuddle up and listen to the hmmmmmmmm...thankfully for just one more night! I have taken pics....I'll post them tomorrow!

Happy Hauntings and Happy Home

Here's our home... come and see us anytime..

Here's little Kiley clown, she's having a great time!

Here are the little spooks... they are so Cute! (I am biased!)

The kids didn't have school Friday (Halloween) so we had our own party! It was a HOOT!!

(Just in case you didn't realize it... I was rhyming! hee hee)

We played games, went on a scavenger hunt, and ate "mummy dogs, witch fingers, and mud dessert complete with worms!"

So much fun!! Wish you could've come! Happy Harvest to all of you! Wow I can't believe October is over!

TAGGED!!

Thanks Brandi- this forces me to blog.:)

I am: a "crazy" mom of five GREAT kiddos!

I want: more time in the day to finish my "to-do" list!

I have: to many toys in my toyroom! (ironically I thought we purged when we moved!)

I dislike: walnuts, such a sad way to ruin a brownie

I miss: my family and friends in Utah.

I fear: the new sounds my house makes late at night.

I feel: blessed. tired. content.

I hear: Kiley breathing. (she's so cute when she sleeps).

I smell: baby lotion. (YUM!)

I crave: chocolate, and chewy things like cinnamon bears.

I cry: when I think of the past year, blessings, cursings ( ha ha)

I usually: clean the house before I go to bed.

I search: for missing items until I find them - I hate to lose things

I wonder: what this year will bring. Hopefully a little less eventful than the last.

I regret: nothing

I love: my little kiddos (and the big daddy-o too)

I care: to much about my kids academic success.

I always: brush my teeth.

I worry: about my kids making new friends, and adapting here in Idaho.

I am not: computer savy.

I remember: how much I hate the first part of my pregnancies.

I believe: in Santa.

I dance: with the kids to ABBA!! We LOVE Dancing Queen (king for Zach)

I sing: children's songs all day long.

I don't always: wash my hair.(I'm sporting 3 day hair today- thank goodness for ponytails).

I argue: with Whitney over silly things, like her hair - daily! UG!

I write: in a journal for each of my kids.

I win: nothing.

I lose: my keys often. Infact we haven't ever found one set.

I wish: I could snap my fingers like Mary Poppins and have my house clean itself.

I listen: to Emily and Zach sing kids songs, as we explore Boise.

I don't understand: why we had to move to Idaho. (maybe someday:))

I can usually be found: folding laundry every night.

I need: a big clock for the area above my fireplace, and "chunky" decorations for this house.

I forget: my in-laws birthdays. (sorry)

I am happy: usually all the time.

I now tag: ALL OF YOU who read this! :)

Miss Dimples!

You've got to love those cheeks! Here is our little Kiley -She is now 4 months old! (Today)

She is truly such an angel baby. I don't quite know where the last 4 months have gone.... time sure flies once these little people arrive.

Her Right foot is doing great! She has 1 more month of full time brace wear (we opted out of the brace for the picture), and then just at night for .... who knows... up to 3 years!

The Barbie Scooter

Last week, I walked my 2 oldest girls to school, Whitney road a scooter, and she decides I should just take her scooter home for her. So, after kisses and byes, I turn around to go home. In hand I hold the barbie scooter, and it starts calling my name. So what do I do? What any 30+ year old would do, I jump on and start riding the 2 blocks to my home.

At first, I am doing great, just cruising along, feeling free and feeling quite cool... Have you riden one? They are quite fun, ...well really fun until .....BAM BOOM CRASH!!!!

You would have thought that I ran into a pot hole, as I flew through the air and onto my tummy! Yes I crashed! A dad stopped to see if I was okay. Sure I said with blood on my hands and ankles. It wasn't so much the physical wounds that did me in, it was the kids across the street pointing and laughing at me! Sad sad....mean little stinkers, laughing at the old lady on the scooter!Well I brushed myself off, and I did mount that little scooter again, and finished my last block, bloody and with a shot ego. Well, maybe next time I'll just push the scooter home, um, then again... maybe not.

Something fun to blog about.....

So my little sister Cheri had this on her blog, and I just thought it inspired me with something fun to blog about....

3 joys:
1. Order - when things are in their place and everything is clean = great joy! Derek shared the scripture at FHE about "The kingdom of God is not filthy" and so the Johnson's kingdom is not going to be filthy - although it is a little inevitable as we are still unpacking. But what a happy thought.
2. My children and my husband - what can be better than a 3 year old (my Emmie) singing at the top of her lungs in the basket as we are shopping in Target "I am a child of God" (love those moments.)
3. My bed - after 2 months without it, I really do love my bed!

3 Fears:
1. Bugs, Spiders, snakes... yuck - enough said
2. Being hurt by someone, or my children being hurt by someone
3. Jumping off house boats - at Lake Powell Derek tried to get me to jump off the top of the house boat, and I just couldn't do it.

3 Obsessions:
1. The office - Love a good laugh
oh and The biggest loser - love to be motivated to be healthy
2. Finding a good deal - so much fun, LOVE sales and stuff.
3. My kids - I love them to death - esp. little Kiley right now - she is such a great baby!

3 Surprising Facts:
1. It is difficult for me to go to bed with a messy house (I will stay up until ridiculous hours to clean and have things straight). Plus I really do like to clean.
2. I like to play the piano when I am feeling crazy!
3. I'm not very good at tech stuff, I do minimal things on the computer, and can barely text, it takes me hours to do a simple sentence.

Now if any of you friends out there read this... I am tagging all of you. Then maybe some of you will update your blogs, this will give you something to blog about! FUN FUN!

We're HOME!!

Okay first let me say, that pictures are forth coming.. just a bit delayed due to the sea of cardboard that is covering our floor. (I actually can see carpet now! In some rooms!) Saturday we moved in... we had a great turn out of ward members here to help us. We found beds, minus bedding, but beds none the less, an awesome neighbor brought us dinner, then the "rituals" began. Just like they did in our last home. Baths, pajamas, treat, teeth, and prayer. A prayer of true thanksgiving. A prayer of true peace, and rest. We are finally home. Together. We have reached the top of this crazy "moving" mountain, and like the song says "I can see clearly now the rain is gone, I can see all obstacles in my way... it's gonna be a bright, bright sun shiny day!" After trials come the blessings, yet, I believe that the blessings come with the trials, or maybe because of trials. I hope that we can sit here on the summit for a while. I sure enjoy the view. The trip up was a bit rocky, rainy, and difficult, but I can honestly say, I believe that it was worth it. (not that I am wanting to take this hike anytime soon). I am so grateful to be "home" again... and you are all welcome to visit ANYTIME! loves to all of you!

5,4,3,2,1 .........the count down begins!

Still no pictures... but they will be coming! Because in just 5 days (yes less than 1 week) we will have a home... complete with walls and carpet and everything, and it will be ours! Tonight was so fun. We took the kids over into the house for the first time. You would have thought we were heading into Disneyland! (They were so excited at dinner that I had to keep reminding them to eat!) I have to admit.. I too was so excited to go to the house and see it again! The Robertson's, the sweet couple who we are staying with, went with us.
Can I just say that the Robertson's are earning their wings? They are so wonderful! They have opened their doors and even are kind when the kids "slam" the doors! They have a beautiful home here in Idaho, and we appreciate their kindness so much. This is one of the "pay it forward" moments in my life. When someone does something so - out of the ordinary- something, so incredibly kind and thoughtful, that I wish that I could return the favor... and I will someday, when I "pay it forward" to someone else.
I remember when I was SUPER sick with pregnancy, and my cute neighbor Stacey did such nice things for me, (as well as other wonderful friends,) services which I wanted to return, and Stacey said just "pay it forward." So I will. It is so much easier to be the pay-er than the pay-ee. I look forward to helping someone else someday!
Well, keep checking in with us... because next week this blog is going to be FULL of pictures and fun! Until then.. count along with me.... HEE HEE!!

Homeless...... and Happy..

Well, for those who are visiting this - yes, we are homeless, and yes we are happy. I think the kids are happy because they are "playing" ( AKA. living at grandma's - our present residence - until moving day) and happy that I gave them the day off, from sitting on the freeway exit with a sign that reads - "5 homeless children... will work for treats." I told my cute YW that if they DID see me on the corner, to please throw a quarter at me...

We've been busy... and hopefully we will be in a new home soon, seeing that school in Boise begins in a few weeks (Aug 25). We are planning on heading there on Sat. Aug 23rd...we are waiting, because our home isn't available until Sept. 8th... Thus, we will be on the corners in Boise as well... ha ha- still homeless, and happy. (I will post pictures and address as soon as we get settled, and out of suitcases)
Other quick events: Kiley had surgery on her foot, and is in her final cast... 2 weeks until the big reveal and her "new shoes" which we will BEDAZZLE!!
We Blessed Kiley, and were lucky to have both sets of grandparents attend!YEA!
We attended a "Johnson" famiy reunion up Ogden canyon - super fun!
Emily is officially potty trained - which she did on her own, during our move and the arrival of a new baby... I guess she figured I was a little preoccupied and took matters into her own hands....
Derek gets his braces off in just 7 weeks! We can't wait to see those pearly whites! He can't wait to have food NOT stuck in his teeth.

I will get some pictures hooked up to this soon. Kiley looked so cute on her blessing day, one sweet little bootie on the left, and her cast on the right!

I am getting anxious for some "stability." I am excited for a "new" start, those people in Boise don't know how crazy I am. . . . YET....

Thanks for all the comments and for adding to your blogs, your inspire me, and motivate me! loves to all....

Goodbye Emma Mine

I am using my parents computer to do this entry, hence, no pictures. This week was the hardest week of my married life. I never thought that I could feel such sadness and loss over selling and moving, but I do. WOW talk about a hole in the heart. As we packed up, on Thursday, I kept seeing the past 6 years replay before me, and I was devistated. I woke up feeling okay, and then around 10 am, the door swung open as a group of "angels" swept in to literally sweep my house clean. I had to find moments to hide the tears of gratefulness, and sorrow. These wonderful women, (and men who helped us the entire night before) who were once strangers - are now some of the dearest people I know. They are truly family. When the angel crew finished, it was just the family. I would clean, and cry, and clean and cry and cry and cry. I walked down stairs and just sat on the stage in the playroom and sobbed. I just couldn't believe this was real!! I silently prayed for peace- or to please wake up to a year ago, when things seemed so much easier. Ug! Well, we took lots of pictures, and then as a family knelt and prayed one last time in our "home." We walked out and closed the door, and said goodbye to our "home." I don't think that I can go back for a while, it would just be to hard. For now we are homeless,.. thank goodness for parents who are willing and able to house our circus! To all my dear friends out in Herriman, we love you. We cherish our friendships with you, and will be expecting Christmas cards. ... until next post!.. loves...

My life is a Musical...

I wish that I had some pictures to show you.... but since I don't just close your eyes and imagine CHAOS!! My house looks as though a tornato has passed through, and I expect to find Dorothy, or the wizrd around any corner now. Yes we are packing up, and will be moving on Wednesday! I am sad, and happy, excited, and scared, and tired mixed up in all of this. I have many moments when I feel like I'm in a musical, (no I don't break into song...) but, in my thoughts songs are rushing - from: "For Good" from Wicked, as I think about the dear friends I have made here, and how much they have changed me "for good," to "Memories" from Cats, as I think of all the memories we have had here, to "Sunrise, sunset" from Fiddler on the Roof, .... I could go on and on... but, I am to tired. (It is almost 1 :30 am) We will keep you all posted on our location, since as of Friday - we will be "homeless."

So what have you been up to?

The other day I called a dear friend, who I haven't spoken to in a while, and the question was asked, "So what have you been up to?" Obviously she hasn't tuned into my FANTASTIC blogspot, haha, which has been a bit pimped thanks to my cute sis-in-law... (thanks Ali). So just in case you're wondering what I've been up to, here's a little list of some of the "FUN." The other day, I ....
1. got up, (earlier than I had hoped, due to late night packing, and laundry)
2. nursed the baby, (I forget how often the littles need to eat! good thing she is such a sweet pea!)
3. showered (quickly- just to scrub the "stinky" off), I was on 4th day, grease hair- no time for that luxury (they say that is healthy for your hair right?)
4. Drove up to Park City to drop off Breilly and her friend to girl scout camp, just a mere 3 1/2 hour trip - I have plenty of time to spare! (ha ha) It was actually relaxing, and I made a few calls to some friends I've needed to talk to, great catch up time, especially funny when they'd ask what I've been up to....
5. Stopped to nurse baby - conveniently by the Outlet stores, I can't resist the possibility of finding a treasure, which I did find, CUTE $1 flip flops, and some little "cast"friendly skirts for Miss Kiley.
6. Ran by the store, we had run out of the necessities...
7. Returned something to another store.
8. Stop by store to get somethings for YW - yes I am still the YW president eventhough I will be homeless in just 7 days....I am so sad- I will miss these girls and the WONDERFUL women that I serve with.
9. Picked up kids, from the babysitter. WOW - My trip to the mountains (Park City) had now cost me over $100- UG! (especially since gas costs so much....yada yada...)
10. Come home and pack some more - I am starting to wonder if it will ever end..
10. 7:00 kids ask when is dinner -oops - BAD mom moment, - quick meal - thank goodness for eggos and a toaster.
11. Bath time - everyone needs one, including me - ha ha
12. I know that I nursed peanut many more times than I am documenting, as well as working snack shack for the other kids.
13. Stories, prayers and kisses... this always lasts way to long although I am the one to blame, shoot they are all just so scrumptous, I love my littles so much!
14. Computer stuff
15. Laundry and horrible tv viewing. - Wow I could've bought some "treasures" on TV, I mean who comes up with these creations?
16. I don't know what time I went to bed, maybe 2 or so in the morning.

I feel like repeating the tagline from a soap opera.. so,...."these are the days of "my" life." I've also had some really fun "cherry on top" moments, like sick kids with croup, and another with stomach flu. The fun just never stops!!

I was so hoping to have a party with friends before we moved, but alas it will not happen. boo hoo. I know that you're wondering why, and thinking I'm a slacker, I mean I do nothing all day long, but sit and watch tv and infomercials and eat bonbons,,, ahhhh if only! ha ha

The past month since the birth of little Kiley (aka angel baby) has flown by. WOW! Time flies when your having fun....fun? I am looking foward to new adventures, but I am so sad to close this wonderful chapter of our lives. We have been so blessed the last (almost) 6 years. How thankful we are for our friends, family, and memories. We love you all!! (please excuse any typos or other mistakes I am a little crazy right now ( but then again what's new?)

Some things to think about

A dear family friend (my "kind of cousin"), David Wright, died suddenly on Wednesday. He was only 28, and left behind a beautiful wife, daughter and baby on the way. It makes you stop, reevaluate, and remember what's really important. Sunday, was his viewing, and today was the funeral. The funeral was a beautiful tribute to him, and the families involved. They had wonderful quotes that were displayed, I wrote down some:
"And in the end, it's not the years in your life that count.
It's the life in your years." - Abraham Lincoln

"Faith in God includes faith in His timing, faith in His purposes as well as in His timing. We cannot fully accept Him while rejecting His schedule. We cannot worship Him but insist on our plans." - Neal A. Maxwell.

"In the gosple of Jesus Christ, we have help from both sides of the viel. When disappointment and discouragement strike and they will we need to remember that if our eyes could be opened, we would see horses and chariots of fire as far as they eye can see, riding at great speed to come to our protection. They will always be there, these armies of heaven." - Jeffrey R. Holland

We all go through trials, of varying degrees at different times in our lives. I pray that we may remember that if we "search diligently, pray always, and be believing than all things shall work together for our good...." (D&C 90:24)

My thoughts and prayers are with my "uncle" Rex and "aunt" Marilyn and my "Wright cousins." (they are our "kind of" family, since my dad is an only child, his friends were our adopted relatives). I've been in and out of tears all day. Sometimes things just don't make sense. Hopefully someday it will. Just like our move to Idaho. I just don't understand why. We received an offer on our home, and I believe we will accept it. This trial is definately not what I asked for. Definately not on my "schedule," but I will go and do.... and some how this craziness will all "work out for our good." Loves to all of you...

Introducing - Miss Kiley Ann Johnson!!

Here she is Miss Kiley! We haven't seen her eyes much - but we think that they are blue? She is a very content baby (YEA!) and her brother and sisters just can't get enough. I assure them that she will be with us tomorrow (and so on...) but they still all insist on their cuddle time. We are so happy that she is here and healthy! I don't know if you can tell in the picture, but her little right foot is "positional club foot." Which means her little foot got squished into this turned position, so she will be visiting a pediatric ortho. surgeon, on June 20th, who will put a cast on her foot, helping it back into the right "position." It worried me so much at first, but I have been assured that it is fixable, and she will be able to "someday" run, jump and dance just as good as everyone else. For right now, we just love this sweet little foot. I wish that she would show those cute dimples, but I just can't seem to click the picture fast enough - but I will! (just you wait) We sure love her, and can't wait until she gets to meet all of you!

SHE'S HERE!!!!

She is here!! She was born at 6:00 pm, she is 7 lbs 10 oz, and 20 1/2 inches long. She has a darling little dimple on her left cheek, and dark hair. I can't tell eyes but they look like they will be blue! We are both doing great, and are so happy that it is over!

The other kids came up around 8:00 pm and gave her lots and lots of loves and kisses! Now we have until Tuesday to figure out what to call our newest little princess!

The miracle of birth is still so overwhelming to me. As they layed her on my tummy I couldn't help but get a little choked up! How blessed we feel to have another healthy "perfect" baby! Now Derek and I are ready for bed. He will go home and have the WHOLE house to himself, and a peaceful slumber, I will enjoy my hosptial "suite, until they kick me out on Tues. Loves and hugs!!

D- Day!!

So... today is the DAY! Delivery Day that is.... After walking on the eliptical for 45 minutes, and bouncing on my "ball" for another 30 minutes, I finally went to bed around midnight. Unfortunately I spent the night kind of sick. I don't know why, but I feel fine now. The many perks of being induced are: planning - the kids are all at my parents, house is clean, I am packed. At 6:00 am, I get up and shower, I get to SHAVE and put on make-up! Everything is in order.... Unfortunately, I called the hospital at 6:30am, and they (sadly) tell me to call back at 7:30 am. So as I am waiting, what do I do.... BLOG! I am anxious and excited. Hopefully they will get me in quick, because I require a long day on pitocin. So, as it approaches 7:30, I will go do last minute things, make sure I have everything for the hospital stay! Tune in soon for an update! I will post the info and pictures as soon as I am home! Until then, loves and hugs!

The Johnson Castle

Our house... in the middle of the street... our house....(you can sing along if you want to) ha ha. Well, we are in the middle of the selling quest. I'd say that it is going well, but I don't know if it is. I am the opposite of patient, so ... so it feels pretty slow to me. Although, it is okay, seeing that I am due to have #5 (yes still no name) in just 16 days. I am trying to convince my doctor to induce me on the 12th but he said that my body has to cooperate. (Which it's not very good at). I think that I'd be pregnant forever, .... I've been induced with all of them. You'd think by #5, that my body would have learned how to do this without gallons of pitocin... but I am doomed. I mean isn't a career change, packing up you home, or moving stressful enough to cause birth? I guess it's like we've said... our children are afraid to come to earth. I think during the last month, they are in counseling.. wondering if they are being sent to the right "johnson" home. They are trying to negotiate other living arrangements. (ha ha) We are excited... and nervous to, as I feel in limbo, as our lives are so CRAZY right now. (I am already crazy, so just imagine me now!) Any way, if you know anyone who wants to buy a fabulous home, and relieve a little stress from my life, go and visit our home's blog. It is herriman-home.blogspot.com If you've never been to my house, enjoy the tour.... and if you have been to my house, enjoy the visit!

Decisions and changes, and making plans

As the saying goes, life is what happens while you are making plans. Well, my plans included, hanging out, doing some spring cleaning, and nesting before baby #5 (who still remains nameless, known by little Emmie as "sister") comes to join us in 4 weeks! (5 the way my body works)... yet, as it said "life happens," and we have decided that there is another path we must go on! We have decided to accept a GREAT job in Bosie Idaho, and move as soon as we can sell the Johnson castle!! (and as soon as the kids are out of school, and girls camp, and Youth Conference are over!)

The down side of course is leaving Utah. We are so sad to leave family, and dear friends, and yes I am sad to leave my house. I love my house! Isn't that silly? Even the things I don't love, I suddenly love! But, we must move forward. We are thinking positively, and I especially am, thinking, hey - maybe the stress of moving will cause me to have this little one on time! Wouldn't that be a novel idea?

So that is what is happening here. The past 3 months have been SOOOO LONG! I am finally feeling some sort of peace (I think?). I am grateful for prayer, friends, and for family support. I am thankful that people still like me still, especially over the past 3 months, when I have had days when I was an emotional mess, just so MAD and confused, and searching for answers and peace.

Today I had the first glimpse of peace! And to make it even better, today is mother's day, and I am so happy to be a mom. There's nothing better than the title of "mom", it truly is my best accomplishment ever, even if I'm still learning how to do it! So to all my sweet friends, happy mothers day, you are the best mom's I love and appreciate all of you! (and your sweet mom's too) I love you mom! And B,W, Z, and E, thanks for letting me be your mom! I am so lucky!

"Women Who Know"

"I've heard it said, that people come into our lives for a reason, bringing something we must learn, and we are led to those who help us most to grow, if we let them, and we help them in return, now I DO KNOW and I BELIEVE that it is true, I know I'm who I am today because I knew you......I CAN say that I've been changed for the better... because I KNOW you, I have been changed for good......" (wicked, For Good)


I am so blessed to be friends with these AMAZING women! "Women who know," women who inspire me, uplift me, and motivate me.. Thank you my dear friends,... Erin, Jenny, Katie, Sarah, Diane, Christy, Cami, Jane, Jennie, LaDawn, and Erika!! It was such a wonderful weekend!! As usual, our time together went way to fast.... I love you so much, and am already counting down until next time we are together! Thank you for everything!! loves and hugs to all of you and your sweet families!

The Queen and 8 Princesses

"The Queen" (my mom, Grandma V. ) loaded up her coaches (2 SUV's) and took all 8 of her grand-daughters - the future princesses, to Disney's Princesses on Ice. She even took her 5 own princesses too! (my 4 sisters and me!) We had a lovely time, complete with HUGE ice creams at Leatherby's. It was an afterfnoon that was truly magical.

Emmie was dressed for the part, even had some fancy hair! Even if we weren't sporting our fancy hair-do's, we all felt pretty royal! Thanks mom, grandma, Queenie!!

Spring

Shallow men believe in luck. Strong men believe in cause and effect. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

I believe in blessings, and hope, and new beginnings. The sun is shining, and it is beautiful outside! I love Spring, because everything seems to wake up from it's winter sleep. As the snow melts, new discoveries are revealed! For example, on our back lawn, we are amazed at all the "toys" that have been buried beneath a blanket of white! (not to mention many of the shingles of our roof, ha ha).
Spring means, new beginnings and fresh starts- hope, and change! . Time to put away the "winter" and welcome the "spring"! So often, the seasons of weather parallel our life. I am grateful for the "reminder" of the sun, and spring... that after "winters" -when we wonder if the snow will ever stop, we receive "spring"! A hope that sunnier days are on their way! YEA!! So hip hip hooray for sunnier days! Happy Spring to you all! And as Mark Twain said,...
It's spring fever.... You don't quite know what it is you DO want, but it just fairly makes your heart ache, you want it so!”

"It isn't as bad as you sometimes think it is. It all works out. Don't worry. I say that to myself every morning. It will all work out. Put your trust in God, and move forward with faith and confidence in the future. The Lord will not forsake us. He will not forsake us. If we will put our trust in Him, if wewill pray to Him, if we will live worthy of His blessings, He will hear our prayers."
- Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley (I sure love him, this is my new favorite thought!)

Being Grateful, in challenges

Sometimes this blog is my emotional outlet..... today is one of those. The last 3 weeks have basically been the most challenging of our married life. One of those times, that I think defines you. Someone once said, "In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity." And so it has been for me, opportunity to grow, opportunity to reassess, opportunity to focus on what really matters. I am trying to remain positive and optimistic, and find strength in "simplifying" my life, and focusing on the "important" stuff. I've started reading a great book, Simplify, by Carolyn J. Rasmus. It is enlightening and impowering me right now.
I also find great strength in reading the Book of Mormon. I just finished 2 Nephi Chpt 5 where Nephi talks about all the things the people are doing, ...first there is so much adversity, his brethren are even going to kill him, so the Lord provides a way... he leaves, and Nephi's people are blessed and they prosper, they keep the commandments, they and build buildings, they work, they build temples, and then in verse 27 he says, "they lived after the manner of happiness." So following the "adversity" they did get to a state of happiness.

Alexandar Graham Bell wrote,

"When one door closes, another opens.

But we often look so regretfully upon the closed door

that we don't see the one that has opened for us."

Derek and I are looking for the opened door. I am sure that we soon will find it, I am confident that as we do all that we can that we will get to that "happiness."

Martha Washington said,

" I am determined to be cheerful and happy

in whatever situation I may find myself.

For I have learned that the greater part of our misery or unhappiness

is determined not by our circumstances but by our disposition."

So we plug along, determined to stay optimistic,and we know that after the "storm" comes the "rainbow." I am mindful of my blessings, especially a wonderful husband,and great kids, who I adore! I find strength in family and wonderful friends. And I know, this too shall pass...... But I sure wish that it would hurry!! UG! love to you all!

The last place you look....

Let me take you back in time... to December... the day of the Christmas Recital... as the girls were off at school, I went to get the costumes out to make sure that all the pieces were accounted for. ... Breilly's were all there, but Whitney's were GONE!! Seriously missing... SO the hunt began.... for the next 8 hours (as the kids were in school) I hunted, in around, on, through EVERYTHING I could think of. I was FREEKING out! I was crying, called my mom, sister, derek, anyone who cared. I hate to lose things, and this was no exception. I couldn't believe that it had disappeared! (and as you see the picture, can you believe that the neon green leotard could hide!!????!!) Anyway, When I picked the girls up from school, I proceeded to tell Whitney (through tears) that I had looked ALL day, and couldn't find her costume. She started crying to, and said, "I'll find it mom" but she couldn't either. That night she wore a black leotard, and a green tank top over it. She was a GREAT sport, but I felt rotten.

Dance pictures are next month, so I knew that I had to find it, in the next month. Today, it happened! Whit was looking for something under Breilly's bed... AND THERE IT WAS!!! YAHOO!! I'll tell you it was a miracle, because that truly is the last place I would have looked. I would have spent another long day looking through my halloween boxes, closets, and other places, and been unsuccessful. Anyway, it was a very happy moment, and now I am a firm believer that, it truly is ..."the last place you would look." HOORAY!!

The Budding Pianist!

Breilly's first piano recital! She was a little nervous for her debut, but we couldn't have been more pleased with her performance!! She was FABULOUS!! (The best of the evening, yes we are biased!)

Sugar and Spice

So for all those who "don't" know already,... another little lady will be joining our family! Zach will be double stuffed!! He is fine with it, as he declared, "I'm going to be spoiled huh mom?" as well as "I'm going to be crunched by girls!" I called my cute friend Natalie, to share the news, and she said, "We'll some middle children(which I happen to be) claim they are "forgotten," but with your only son being in the middle, he won't be able to say that!" We are all excited! And grateful that "she" looked great in the ultra-sound. (So the tech said, but to me those ultra-sound images, all look a little spooky!) When I was driving home the other day, I heard the great song "Daughters" , by John Mayer! It made me cry, as I just love the words,

"Father's be good to your daughters,

daughters will love like you do...

Girls become lovers, who turn into mothers,

so mothers be good to your daughters too!"

My own family growing up, had 5 girls 1 boy, and I know that my brother received plenty of love! I will continue to crush on my son, but now I am adding another beautiful daughter who I will adore, just like I do her sisters!! Now it's on to the quest of names, one that Derek and I always struggle with! (Suggestions are welcome) HOORAY FOR LITTLE LADIES!!

And the Baby is.......

Well, yesterday we had our ultra-sound. I am 20 weeks, yeah! Half way there!! We didn't tell the kids that we were finding out, just that I had an appointment. We've been telling the kids that "we" don't choose what baby comes to us, that Heavenly Father decides those things." They (even Zach) were good with whatever. Zach even said, "I don't care mom. I like girl and boy babies." Right now he doesn't care about much except his StarWars Video Game! He goes to bed talking about it, and wakes up ready to play! Anyway, we did find out, and we are all smiling. This little one will fit perfect in the Johnson Puzzle! If you want to know what it is... Is Zach double stuffed or will he get a buddy? Well, you'd better leave some comments, or email us to find out!! Have a great day!! loves

My "Gifts"

So I recently watched a movie called "The Ultimate Gift" (wonderful movie) and I was thinking of what 12 gifts I have recently "learned/experienced:"
1. The Gift of Service - I've had so many people, some I don't even know very well, help me during my sick days of pregnancy. Some randomly bring by dinner (so that my family doesn't have to eat cereal again), some who offer to take the kids, some who just simply call and check on me. I have felt so thankful to be surrounded by such kindness and love.
2. The Gift of Friendship - I loved receiving all your Christmas cards, and catching up on lives and seeing your beautiful families. I definately have been blessed with wonderful friends!!
3. The Gift of Laughter - there's nothing like your little son saying, Hey mom, Dad's your honey huh? Hey when you go into Zuka Juice just tell them you need two, one big one for you and one big one for your honey, and then I'll drink it for dad. Okay?" Or Emmie being mad at me and saying, (in a VERY angry voice) I like you!!! (of course meaning she doesn't like me at that moment) and replying I love you too Em. (but I don't use the angry voice).
4. The Gift of Money - with another year starting. A new budget begins. Another attempt to do better this year. So far, so good! I appreciate being blessed with enough for our needs, even when our roof falls apart.
5. The Gift of Humility - Sunday I was just called to be the YW President in my ward. Need I say more? Luckily I will be surrounded by FABULOUS ladies, who will be my strength.
6. The Gift of Family - I am so thankful and grateful for the blessings that come from having a strong family foundation. Both Derek and I have such terrific families!! And our little gang is pretty awesome too!
7. The gift of Children - 4 wonderful children, each with different strenghts and different talents. Each fitting perfectly into our family puzzle. We know that this next little one, not matter the "flavor" will fit perfect into our puzzle.
8. The Gift of Health - now that I am feeling better (YEA!) I am so grateful for health, and also (knock on wood) that our little family has been very blessed in that department. I pray that this little one joining our family will also be healthy too!!
9. The Gift of Learning - I am on the quest this year to learn how to take better pictures, with my fancy new camera. I am committing to even taking a class. I also am so excited to be studying the Book of Mormon this year in Sunday School.
10. The Gift of Failure - Yes, that sounds weird, but it seems like the times that something doesn't work out, it makes me try again. I am pretty stubborn about not stopping until it's done "right."
11. The Gift of Love- I am in love, with my "honey" and 4 (almost 5) beautiful children. And even when I am the "wicked witch of the west" they love me back.
12. The Gift of a Perfect Day - what would that be....the other day we had a pretty perfect day. The kids played together, not much arguing, and we laughed alot. Not giggle but a full belly ha ha. Complete with tickles and wrestling. Finishing out the day with a trip to the "The Magic Forest,:" a night time story I have created, which Zach likes to help tell, and which "magically" helps the kids go to sleep.(Miss Whitney thinks she can't sleep without it). And then Magically they did go to sleep, early enough that Derek and I could relax and be together!

christmas wishes...

Wow, I can't believe that the holidays are actually over.... Zach, asked if we could have Christmas EVERY day. I assured him that it wouldn't be so special if it happened EVERY day, and that it is Jesus' birthday only once a year. He thought about that and then said, "Then can it be my birthday every day?" (this made me laugh) Well, slowly, and hesitantly the decorations have been put away, and now the walls and shelves are dusted, and pieces are placed back into their "assigned" place, if you look around you almost wonder if Christmas really happened....but it did, and as usual, we were blessed beyond measure, and the Christmas magic filled the air. I wish I could bottle the feeling, the smells, of Christmas.. but until I figure out how to do that, here are a few of my favorite Magical Christmas moments....

The Christmas Story, puppet show.... Emily was the "baby Jesus."

Following the puppet show, we enjoyed the "live" production of the Christmas story.Complete with "baby" Jesus, played by my niece Bella.

And of course Christmas Eve wounldn't be complete without the "matching" Christmas PJ's!! Oh, I love Christmas!

Blowing into 2008

I am just wondering what the rest of you were doing Saturday morning at 3:30am. Maybe, you were like me, feeling like the first little pig, as the big bad wolf was huffing and puffing, trying to blow my house down.... I almost thought that he might be successful. There was enough blowing outside that I "sprang from my bed, to see what was the matter." I went to the window to a scene from the wizard of Oz, also expecting to see things flying by, as Dorothy did - and I DID see things flying by our front window. What? Well besides the trash cans rolling down the street, pieces of our roof (the shingles) were flying one by two, by three, by.......many many many!! I went back to bed to tell Derek. The huffing and puffing had also awaken him, and he asked what I saw, and I told him, our roof is falling apart, it is flying away.

Now it is about 4:30, and he is now up, and we have no clue what to do, and so after a few calls, we decide there is only one thing to do, try to go back to bed. I plugged my ears and eventually drifted off, Derek continued to listen to the howling wind. When morning came Derek went out to assess the damage, which was more that we'd hoped, as our front tree and yard (as well as other neighbors trees and yards, were now decorated with the shingles off our roof.

Thank goodness for kind neighbors, who came to our aid, to offer ideas, solutions, and comfort. So as I said we are "blowing" into 2008!! Just when you think you can ease into a new year, the fun has just begun!! We are off and flying.... I am excited for the adventures that I know this year has in store for us! Life is so exciting, and fun, even when the wolf is huffing and puffing, he didn't blow our house down, so all is well. Happy 2008!

This is one of the piles of shingles, we have several of these. This is the top of our house, and I couldn't do it justice. This is a neighbors tree (down the street) where I spotted another one of our shingles. (You have to look closely - I was a little to far away to do it justice).

P.S. If you find shingles in your tree, just let us know. Derek is pretty good at getting them out!