purcell prose

3 Wishes for 24

2012-02-06T14:30:00.000-08:00

For my 24th birthday, I asked Anthony for three things.

1. A day eating my favorite foods.
2. A DVD shelf that is hanging by our TV downstairs to be moved upstairs.
3. Time alone with him.

Out of those three things, I got two...and then much, much more (we're still waiting on the shelf).
Here's how it went:

1. Every year we have a tradition to go to Kneaders on my birthday for breakfast. So, of course, we did that (all you can eat french toast = l.o.v.e). Then a few hours later we ventured over to Tucanos, and while waiting for our table we bought some of my favorite candy. Then a long while later, after digesting a cow or two and then seeing Mission Impossible 3, we made it over to Cafe Rio right before it closed to get us some pork quesadillas. Yeah man!...and you know there were a few Dr. Peppers somewhere in there.
2. Still waiting on the shelf, but hubby promises this week it shall be done.
3. Time alone? Well, in a 24 hour time period we had two babysitters...so yes, that wish came true.

All in all, it was a birthday to remember. Different than last year but I learned something new this year that will forever change my outlook on birthdays (See what it was, here).

It's all about celebrating the fact that we are alive. It isn't about the number, how old we are going to turn, or the presents or even the food (I know, crazy, right :)....it is about you celebrating YOU.

And I definitely celebrated some cuddle time with my favorite baby boy.

Thanks for the birthday wishes via email. Hope you all had a super (bowl) weekend, too!

I MUST Always Remember

2012-02-03T12:53:00.000-08:00

This is a journaling post. Things I never want to forget about this time in my life:

--Hearing Lincoln sing his first song. "Go! Go!" (From the Cat in The Hat on PBS)

--Helping Lincoln say his prayers. He folds his arms, sits there for a couple of seconds, and then claps his hands together and says "yay!"

--This after-Bahamas feeling. That is all.

--Sitting in sacrament at church with Tony and Link, and the bread comes. Lincoln yells out "Toast!", and then after eating his little piece looks up at us and asks (just as loudly), "Juice?" (Where's the water, Mom and Dad?)

--Creation time with Anthony. Sitting on our bed at night and just creating our life the way we want. Visualizing, saying things out loud, laughing and just being.

--My new favorite snack: Humus on a tortilla. Yum.

--Finishing up a RevMom coaching call, and just feeling so happy that people are learning and accessing their Divine power. Feeling giddy and having excited butterflies about my "job" in general.

--Lincoln's latest phrase: "No way". No idea where he got it, but it is hilarious...especially when said in a lackadaisical tone.

--Bubble Baths

--Little tiny baby fingers pointing on the ground for me to come sit beside him...right here, Mom. Exactly here.

--Tony's business, where it is right now. Because in a couple of months it will be very different. Very big, and very different.

--Lincoln holding a couple hundred dollar bills, and Tony teaching him how to throw his hands in the air and yell "Mummy!" (money!). Yes, we are brainwashing our children to love money...

--These two little guys ruling the world. Just these two playing, hugging, sharing germs with kisses... because soon there will be one more sharing the limelight (and no, not because of me... :)

--Running 2 miles in 16 minutes.

--My baby's hair growing like a weed and way faster than mine ever has in my whole entire life. Sigh. Yes, this is me wanting to chop my hair again even though my current style right now is "trying to grow it out."

--Enjoying one of the things I learned in the Bahamas: Your house is a mess...so what? You are an amazing mom and believe it or not, that has nothing to do with how well you clean. And guess what? Knowing this principle actually makes me a better housekeeper because I clean by intuition, NOT force (typed while sitting amongst a pile of baby toys. Whatevs).

--Lincoln trying to speak full sentences. When I got home from the Bahamas I was asking him about his Saturday afternoon outing with Bompa (Grandpa). He nodded and said: "Bompa (baby words)....Choo-choo...(more adorable baby words)....Cruck...(more baby mumbling)....Woofs... (baby blabber)....Bompa!" Translation: I went with Bompa in his truck, saw the dogs, and then went to the train show. Haha!

--Family game night at my Mom's. This has been a recent happening, and I'm loving it. I especially loved the night we played Rummikub and someone won the game before Chels set down even one tile.

Man oh man. Life is good. And I will never forget it.

xoxo, friends. Happy weekend (enjoy the Super Bowl...but me? I'll be celebrating birthday numero 24 that day instead....yipes).

Lincoln to My Rescue

2012-01-30T11:20:00.000-08:00

Today is one of those days when Motherhood saved me.

I'll admit. Just getting off of a weekend where only a few days ago I was soaking in the Bohemian sun and ever since then it has been busy, busy, busy & create (fail), create again...I am pooped.

I want to give up, cry, whine, eat everything in sight and just plain wallow. Lincoln, however, has different plans for me.

He has plans for me to smile and laugh. He has plans for me to put him in the bath, get splashed and watch happily as he swims and blows bubbles. He has plans for me to rock him to sleep, smell his baby smell and stroke his hair. He has plans for me to get hugs and wet kisses. He has plans for me to cuddle with Daddy for a minute while he plays with his truck. He has plans for me to run with him to the mailbox and back saying in the highest pitched voice, "brrrrrr" and rubbing our hands together. He has plans for me to help him clean up his toys and "vroom" (vacuum).

He has plans for me to just be with him.

And when you get to "just be" with a Bubbers Link, your energy sky-rockets, you feel happy, you want to be better, stronger, lighter and best of all-- you fall in love with life all over again.

By sharing with you his higher vibration of love and light, he reminds you of who you really are and what amazing things you can accomplish.

Isn't it amazing what a tiny person with a giant spirit can do for you?

Thanks, baby-babes. I love you.

Bahama Mamas in short

2012-01-25T09:01:00.000-08:00

Well, I am back. Back from the Bahamas aka Paradise. It was amazing, one of the most transformational experiences of my life. I learned a lot about myself and my gifts. I saw myself differently than I ever have before, and the wonderful part is that I don't think I will ever go back. I am changed forever. This few days wasn't just about a temporary transformation. Each of us girls have stepped into a little bit more power and Light...and we are never going back.

Thanks to Joannie, Brittney, Calli, Nathalie and especially Marie for making this a "girls weekend" unlike any other. I love you girls.

And, I have good news at the bottom of this awesome post. You can be a part of the Bahama Mama's next retreat coming up this May! Email me (abby.purcell@hotmail.com) if you want to know more. Trust me. You want to know more....

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes

2012-01-13T10:16:00.000-08:00

Change #1: We are now a one car family. We sold Tony's little Hyundai Elantra, his baby, the speedy car he loved. We just weren't using it enough. With Anthony working from home and only leaving for business a couple times a week, the car would just sit there most of the time. It's a tiny adjustment...but overall a good plan. We keep wondering what our next car will be when we have the need and want to get another one again...and I keep telling Tony it is my Hummer. It's gotta be my Hummer. :)

Change #2: These beauties are back. The lashes. Oh how I heart these lashes. With these babies, makeup is rarely applied which makes getting ready really fast...and that makes for a happy momma and baby.

Now my lashes almost match what this little guys got naturally....

Change #3: Lincoln is eighteen months old. Yes, this is a big change. I was talking to someone the other day and called him my baby....and even though he will always be my "baby", he is so big now! He will absolutely not use the highchair anymore, he sits in a chair at the table with us. He learns a word a day, he wants to comb his own hair in the morning, brush his own teeth and all in all runs the roost everywhere he goes.

Change #4: Me in the Bahamas. Beaches. Friends. Sun. In just one week. I'll admit, I'm kinda sad to be leaving my family but I have been spending a lot of time connecting with Lincoln and am feeling really prepared. I can't wait for this new adventure, something I have never done before: vacation out of the country (or in the country) without family. It is time.

Change #5: My baby sister turned Sweet Sixteen this week. Dating and driving. And I should've guessed she'd have her first date right on her birthday.

We kind of like this girl in our house. "Lay-lay" is one of Link's favorite people. Happy birthday, Lace. We love you more than you love Bieber.

So. 2012 is bringing some new and exciting changes. What are your New Year changes thus far?

Choco-hol-LINK (plus New Years Creations #1)

2012-01-04T19:53:00.000-08:00

Lincoln likes chocolate. Chocolate cookies to be exact.

The other day I gave him a cookie, and he came back a few minutes later, holding out his hands and asking me to wash them. Little did he know he needed much more than his hands rinsed off.

I couldn't stop laughing. This kid is my favorite. He rules this house as the local jester of the family.

Anthony and I can't enough.

Which is why I finish this post by sharing one of my New Years Creation ambitions for 2012.

1. Scrapbook that cute face. However I can, but more than with the online blog thing. This is where I need your help. I'm not a big cutsie / dyecut / sticker kind of person, but I want some kind of organized way to keep his pictures in order and accessible in my home. What are your experiences with easy scrap booking (other than blogging)?

Because the hundreds of pictures prints (like this one) sitting in the top drawer of my dresser need to be seen. Right?

More of my Creations to come...what are your 2012 goals, revamped, redesigned and ready to be conquered?

Christmas Comes But Once a Year

2012-01-02T14:39:00.000-08:00

and now it is looooong gone. Obviously, I'm not the best blogger during the holidays but we did have a blast. We had a blast watching Lincoln actually get the present thing. We had a blast taking adorable pictures, being with family, eating (too much) food, taking a few days off...

My favorite memory from this Christmas? After opening a couple "Buff" (Buzz Lightyear) gifts, Link grabbed for another present wrapped in Toy Story wrapping. Upon opening though, he was disappointed to see a pair of pants, and after staring at it for a few seconds, said in confusion, "Buff?"

Buzz is kinda our favorite person in this house.

It was a good couple of weeks with so much happening that I don't even have the time to put it all up here.

All in all, it was all about family, these two people...

and totally about this. Check it out on my other blog.

Happy Holidays...and coming up? New Years Creations for Two-Oh-One-Two.

Do You Want a Preview?

2011-12-21T12:02:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from Lincoln and his best little bud, Ryan.

You may recall when Baby Ryan was born about 9 months ago. Now he is the same age as Link was when he was born...and let me tell you, these boys are hilarious.

Their interactions quickly went from this (unaware and slightly confused about each other),

to this (wrestling, tackling, teasing, kissing, hugging, licking, biting, rolling onto each other),

and not either one of them ever says boo about a smack in the head, a tumbling onto the wood floor, a big, fat slobbery kiss....or apparently even a cough straight into the face...

These two are pals, and always will be I think.

(This is just a preview! Coming up a little closer to Christmas...the personal snapshots of Lincoln that we managed from this photo shoot. So handsome, really. I'm kinda worried for myself when he is a teenager.)

Happy Christmas eve, eve, eve, eve...

On the 15th Day of Christmas

2011-12-15T11:47:00.000-08:00

I have got to say, you truly learn new things about yourself every day when you are a parent.

The other day Lincoln and I were at the mall, just the two of us. It was nice. It was the middle of the day when the kids are still in school....so it wasn't crazy busy and Link and I had a relaxing grand time strolling through the shops. We spent awhile in the Disney store, and an even longer while at the treehouse playground [side note: how awesome is university mall's indoor & free play area!? the perfect solution to getting out of the house but still staying warm!]. I chased him around the dinosaur head. He slid down the slide--all by himself and was so proud. We bought a Sees candy sucker. I picked up a couple Christmas presents.

Mostly though, we just hung out...me and my best buddy.

Then it occurred to me...It's Christmas time, I'm browsing through some of my favorite clothing stores, seeing cute clothes, shoes and other things--but I am in need for nothing. A holiday "wish list" hasn't even crossed my mind. I thought back on when I was a child and teenager. For Christmas, my parents were so generous, giving so much while getting so little for themselves. I remember at the time fearing that I could never be that way, that Christmas without presents seemed almost incomplete.

But I have become that way. My wish list has already been given to me, every single day when I wake up. A happy, healthy family, personal and loving relationships with my Heavenly Father & Savior...and on this particular day, a playful afternoon with my favorite little boy.

So, on this 15th Day of Christmas-- I'm good. Totally happy.

xoxo, friends.

Extra Christmas Cash

2011-12-13T17:39:00.000-08:00

Want to earn some extra cash before the holidays? $250 (or more)?

This is good stuff. Let me tell you...

I'm going to the Bahamas. In January. I've been asked to teach and train on connecting with your kids and your Divine self. This is a transformation trip for women of all ages...and we want to make sure that every woman who wants to go, gets every opportunity to make it happen.

This is what you need to know, two things:

Number 1: For every person you refer to the Bahama Mamas that buys into the January 2012 trip, we'll give you 250 bucks.

Number 2: Right now, until tomorrow (Wednesday the 14th) at Midnight, we are running a discounted price with plane ticket included for the retreat. So, if either you and/or someone you know is interested in awakening and embracing your brilliance....listen to the recording of this Tele-Seminar where we reveal the (shockingly amazing!) discounted price and respond to me via email before midnight tomorrow. You'll go to the Bahamas, receive transformational training and personal development coaching from several trainers, play on the beach and much, much more...(visit our facebook page for additional information).

If anything, listen to the first 20 minutes of the recording to hear about what I've been up to, what I'm creating in my business endeavors and how I can help you.

Welcome to Paradise, literally all around you AND inside you. Embrace YOUR brilliance.

Email me: abby.purcell@hotmail.com for questions.

Somebody's Climbing

2011-12-09T10:24:00.000-08:00

Meet "climber Lincoln". Check out his little red seat he uses while eating snacks and watching cartoons...or to climb into his crib, onto the kitchen table and other places of the like.

Take a good gander at that face. So proud. So guilty. That look is totally saying, "Haha, Mom! Can't stop me now!"

If there is one thing I wish I could have captured when taking these pictures is the absolute dedication the kid took to figure this out. He carried/dragged his favorite seat from the living room into his room, positioned it just right and even shut the door behind him to make sure that Mommy didn't catch him in the act.

When I cracked the door open and said, "Bubba?"...He quickly yelled "NO!" (aka "Caught red-handed!")

I'm telling you...this boy is hilarious. He is such a little ham. He laughs at my jokes, he kisses me for sweets, he performs his adorable dances/silly running/somersaults for friends when they come over. The other day I was at a playgroup and one of the Moms mentioned about his attractive personality, that you can't get enough of him and that his positive energy fills the room.

I agree. I agree tenfold and sometimes I wish I could share some of that energy through this blog to you. Pictures just aren't enough. Cute stories just aren't enough.

(That is where this comes into play...)

Happy Weekend, everyone. Do something fun. Me? I'm getting in the Christmas spirit with shopping and a concert.

Freeeeee Day

2011-12-06T13:56:00.000-08:00

Pretty often on this blog, I have talked about "free day" and a few readers have emailed asking about what this is...

Free day. It's my one day a week that I can go totally crazy when it comes to food. You know Cafe Rio pork quesadillas, Reeses for breakfast (no way!), burgers and greasy fries...and candy, cookies and chips in between it all. Usually Anthony and I plan our free day for Saturday so that we can spend the whole day together....pigging out.

This week's free day was one of the best in awhile. With hanging out with Lincoln all day, Christmas shopping, and then a full evening together (thanks to Grandma Purcell for taking the little dude for us overnight), Anthony and I made the best of F.D.

Cap'n Crunch breakfast.
Leftover discounted Candy Corn from Walmart. Delicious.
Wendy's "W" burger, fries and Dr. Pepper for lunch.
Charleston chews. Sugar babies. Hot tamales. Basically treats galore via the Dollar store.
SLAB pizza for dinner. Our first time there (totally recommend it!).
A dozen variety donuts from Krispy's. That's right.
Oh yeah...and a Ward Christmas party dinner somewhere in there....

That's a typical freeeeee day at the Purcell's. You might be wondering what the benefit of this is. Here's the thing. I don't believe in "dieting". I think the word diet puts a negative relationship between you and food. Food is meant to be enjoyed...and what I like to call "God Food" is what Tony and I spend the rest of our week eating. Veggies, fruit, meat --the carb/protein balance kind of eating...and we love it. It has changed our lives. But, we also know that we could never go forever without eating pizza, chips, candy and treats. No one could (or should, in my opinion). So that is where Free Day comes in. A totally guilt-free day to eat whatever you want and only feel happy about it.

We eat our God Foods six days a week, and enjoy Free Day Foods the other day. And I can honestly say that I have the best relationship with food than I ever have in my life.

Me and food? We're tight. We like each other.

And want to know what the best part about free day is? You wake up the next morning literally feeling what that kind of food does to you if you ate it every day. You feel sick and ready to eat healthy again.

And so you do...until next Saturday, of course :)

It was a great weekend...but we were sure happy to get our little sweetie back Sunday evening.

What's on your free day menu next weekend?

Today...

2011-11-30T13:44:00.000-08:00

is a hair-pulled back, stay in the house, cuddle with Lincoln, snack on baby boy's animal crackers, admire the Christmas tree, let the laundry do itself (ha ha!) glasses wearing kind of day.

That is all. Everyone needs days like today, right?

[Oh and PS: Once I get out of this relaxation mood, I definitely need to get on dinner and am looking for some amazing new recipes. One of my New Years Resolutions for 2011 was to make a new recipe at least once a week. I've succeeded...so far, but I need more! Comment below (or email me abby.purcell@hotmail.com) with your favorite recipe. Grazie!]

Turkey (and pie, potato, stuffing...) Day

2011-11-28T16:01:00.000-08:00

I have a lot to be thankful for. Really, we had a blast this week. Instead of traveling (too far), we stayed close to home and it was a simple, relaxing couple of days.

It came with food, lots of it. It came with family, plenty of faces I have missed. It came with football after dinner, learning how to make my Grandma's homemade pie crust and watching Lincoln try turkey for the first time. It came with Lincoln's second haircut of his life (thanks Cam), hour after hour of Toy Story, a lunch date with Anthony and Christmas decorations inside and out. It came with leftover pie and potatoes, board games with family and sleeping in late. It came with learning how to make Russian bilini, visits from cousins, friends, family and realizing that what I'm truly thankful for is a part of me everyday and that I am one l.u.c.k.y lady.

Although I didn't get as many pictures as I would have liked, the few that I did capture were quite the gems...

Lincoln getting right in the thick of the after-dinner-backyard-football game. He thought he was pretty big, and even made a few of his own "touchdowns" using a toy Woody doll.

Haircut #2 for Linky-babe. This kid's hair grows like a monster (if only I were so lucky). The before:

And after:

And come on, you know it wouldn't be a family get-together without a few "take it yourself" and blurry cellphone photos.

Xoxo to food, family and fun.

And, a big shout out to all the "in-law" peeps we missed this Thanksgiving. Love you all!

The [Ever So Cliche] Thankful List

2011-11-22T18:50:00.000-08:00

I had to get this post out tonight, because I know for sure that I won't be doing it later in the holiday week.

Mostly because I'll be (eating and) spending time with my favorite people.

Yep, that would be them.

Oh! And my top ten "thankfuls" this year/week/minute? (Since everybody is doing it right?....)

1. My daily meditation routine
2. Pumpkin cookies
3. A warm house, warm blankets, warm bed, warm husband arms to cuddle in
4. Lincoln and all of his new words-- "toathst" (toast), "strolla" (stroller), "butt" (Buzz), "danta" (Santa)...
5. Thanksgiving dinner with my Mom and Sisters this year, woot!
6. DoTerra cough drops
7. Hunger Games series. Totally hooked.
8. Anthony and that he makes me feel beautiful every second of every day and reminds me that I KNOW it, too
9. My Dad for bringing me delicious Mexican food whenever he has extra. Bueno.
10. Inspiring family and friends who make me better. Every single one of you. You know who you are. (And this includes surprise letters from my little bro!)

Have a Happy Thanksgiving, friends.

I'm Learning

2011-11-21T15:41:00.000-08:00

I'll admit it. Until very recently, I was a television mom.

Whenever it was nap time or bedtime, the TV was THE solution to get Lincoln to bed. All I had to do was lay there with him, and the quiet hum of Psych or something entertaining for me but not for him would lull him to dream land in a matter of minutes.

Now obviously, I did this because it worked. It worked quickly. Lincoln learned that, most of the time, the TV meant night-night time and that was just perfect for me.

Until he actually started watching the television. It turned from just a box with moving, colorful pictures to something entertaining and worth staying awake for. That was when things went very wrong. He started watching and loving the shows that were on the boob-tube, and the time it took for him to finally drift asleep got longer and longer by the day....

At this point I started getting frustrated, especially when it came to nap time. I would lay on the couch with him for a good hour --at least-- until he fell asleep, all the while he was totally enthralled with whatever was going on in TV land. When I finally got to lay him in his crib, I felt like my afternoon was wasted. I felt like a lazy couch potato. I felt like a failing mother. I felt like there was no other solution to get baby boy asleep quickly and for a good amount of quality napping time.

I was mad.

And that was the problem. I was so busy getting frustrated and anxious about losing time and not getting Lincoln down when I wanted to--that I was completely missing what really needed to be done. I needed to face the fact that the television just wasn't the perfect "Sandman" for my son anymore. I needed to admit that I wasn't working hard enough to make his falling asleep easier. Basically, I was letting Sesame Street or ANTM rock my son asleep...and they weren't even doing a good job about it.

So, as I said....I'm learning. I'm learning that the TV doesn't work for nap or bedtime anymore, and that's okay. I'm learning that my favorite time of the day is now nap time...and not because it means he is going to be asleep for a few hours, but because I GET to hold him, stroke his hair, kiss his forehead and rock him to sleep in the rocking chair.

I get to cuddle him. That is our "new" nap time. And that is what I learned.

And I'll keep learning, because that is okay. None of us are perfect, especially when it comes to Motherhood, right?

Here's to changing, adapting, learning and growing in Motherhood (and in life).

Nowadays, the TV is just for when Momma has to shower or make dinner.

(And even though this isn't the best quality picture, how dang cute is my little boy in that giant LoveSac? Love him.)

"Where is You, Bink?"

2011-11-18T11:43:00.000-08:00

Okay, so the title of this post is two things: One, it is totally wrong grammar and my English Major self is beating me in the head right now for even allowing myself to type it, let alone say it on a daily basis (But what can I say, I'm a Mom and that sometimes entitles a person to talk like a child / adult that sounds like an idiot, right?)...Which brings me to thing number Two: This is a phrase that Link and I often say, right around nap or bedtime when Binky is, yet again, missing and we are desperately looking for him (it?).

"Where is You, Bink?"

It's the same day after day. We've got the rocking chair waiting for us in the living room, blanky clutched in our arms, and I'm carrying Lincoln around searching high and low in every spot that I remember him playing in within the last few hours.

Usually, it is with no luck.

Let's just say that we are out probably 10+ binkies in the Purcell home since Link was born. Whoever buys this place from us whenever we decide to move will either find a plethora of hardly used pacifiers, or else those 'Binks' will be forever buried in the nooks, crannies, and other hidden spots in our house, such as the heater vents.

I'm not kidding. I have no idea where those things run off to. It's like they walk away right when I'm not looking. However much baby Lincoln loves them, they totally hate my guts.

Anyway, long story short--- I guess what I am trying to say is that I so wish Lincoln would wean from Binky just as easily as he did from the bottle (which he totally has, all on his own, done with it!).

But. I have a feeling "Mr. Bink" (Anthony's nickname for it, I swear I would NEVER get that attached:) will be in our family for the long-er haul.

Link + Bink = Forever. (Or, at least until we decide to snip, snip those suckers.)

Have a great weekend everyone. Check out this event that Tony and I are hosting Saturday evening! Still some tickets available, so register quick!

Bed Head

2011-11-17T19:43:00.000-08:00

In the morning, after Tony and I have been to the gym, and eaten a protein shake or a few scrambled eggs...little bubba Link wakes up.

He rises peacefully nowadays. No more crying or fussing because the sun is peeking through his window. Instead, he wakes slowly and as I listen to him rustle, toss, and then JUMP in his crib, eventually I hear a faint "Momma!" ring through the baby monitor.

I love that sound. I love the excitement in his voice when he remembers that he gets to see Mommy and Daddy again after a long nights sleep.

And, almost more than I love that sweet voice calling for me-- I fall in love once again, every single morning, with this amazingly wild, bed-head hairdo.

It's all over the place, it's crazy, it's fuzzy, curly, and totally Alfalfa-y.

There are few things I'd rather be doing than watching this little guy eat cereal in the morning with that hair, loving and kissing on him and wondering how the heck his hair got like that, from this just the night before:

Oh how we love mornings. Relaxing and watching Curious George in our pajamas. Eating cereal, bananas and apple juice. Spending a few minutes playing plane with Dad before he gets busy. Watching the sun get high in the sky and knowing there is nothing we'd rather be doing.

You know, just living slowly, perfectly, peacefully and in the present.

Have a happy Morning, all.

Tony's Tiger [Cute Picture Warning]

2011-11-11T11:26:00.000-08:00

Halloween this year, with Lincoln, was a.maz.ing.

It was a highlight of my life to see my little tiger run up to a doorstep, knock with his tiny fists, say hi, grab a candy and with his cheesy smile that we all know and love, say "bye!" while running to put his treat in the bag. He was a pro at it. And, there will never be enough camera and video space to capture how dang cute that costume was, especially the flowing tail.

The best part was that as long as baby boy was completely naked (except for diaper of course) under that warm, sweaty thing...he absolutely loved it. No joke. Days after Halloween he was actually pointing at it hanging in the closet and "rarrrring" because he wanted to put it on again.

And did we let him? Heck yeah we did. Can you blame us?

And yes, Lincoln totally takes after his Momma and Daddy. He loves candy and quite enjoyed getting a free bag full of it...as did we.

Eat it up, bud. :)

Now, on to gorging ourselves on Thanksgiving. I heart food.

To Life

2011-11-07T19:02:00.000-08:00

It has been well over three weeks since I have written on either of my blogs. And, I know it is kind of lame to write one post for two blogs. I have never done it before and probably won’t ever again, but the stuff I am going to write applies to both my business and my life in motherhood.

So. With that little disclaimer, here it goes. Let me say that now, I have no guilt in not writing on my blogs. I hold no anger with myself or my busy schedule. I am totally content with the course of the last few weeks.

And here is why.

I have a close friend who is dying. She has months left in this life and then she will be doing her work on the other side. Despite everything she is facing, she is excited because she knows it is her time. She knows that her time has been well spent. She knows that she is complete.

To me, I have often found the question “What would you do if you knew you had a week to live?” slightly cliché. Until about a week ago. It wasn’t until I found out that this amazing woman was dying that I looked at my life. I looked at myself. I looked at what I was filling my time doing. I looked at my relationships. I looked at my connection to God. I looked at my business, my clients. I looked at my family, friends and everything important to me. And, above all… I found myself looking at motherhood.

What about motherhood makes it so amazing? What is it about the smell of a baby, the calming feeling of rocking him to sleep and stroking his beautiful blonde hair? What makes playing “tiger chasing Lincoln” so exhilarating? How is it so precious when a tiny, sweet voice says "Mama"? What is it about story time at night that makes my heart melt and my stresses dissolve? What is it about motherhood, that even amidst the frustration, tiredness, and the bad and good of it all, is so completely rewarding?

I have the answer. Really, I do. And it has nothing to do with the blogging about motherhood. It has nothing to do with how many pictures I get of his adorable cheeks. It has nothing to do with the slobbery kisses he gives when I tempt him with M&Ms (however wonderful each of these things are).

No, instead it has everything to do with unconditional love. It has EVERYTHING to do with what I am feeling while I’m taking pictures, blogging and handing out candy for kisses and hugs. It has everything to do with what it truly means for me to be a mother to Lincoln. It has everything to do with time. It has everything to do with my connection to him.

Do you want to know what I would do if I had a week to live? I wouldn’t worry about blogging. I wouldn’t let myself be frustrated about my busy schedule and my flaky-person syndrome when it comes to keeping up on writing. I wouldn’t live like I was dying in just that one week.

I would keep living the way I do now, everyday. On purpose. With unconditional love.

So, today when Lincoln was not going down for his nap and all I wanted to do was keep the television on, catch up on blogging and become totally angry about my messy house and crazy life….Instead, I turned off the TV. I swaddled my nearly 17-month-old toddler in a fleece blanket and rocked him until his long, dark eyelashes drifted to sleep. I let myself love him unconditionally for whatever he wanted to be in that moment, whether it was awake or asleep, crying or content. I stroked his hair. I sang him Primary and Christmas songs. I watched as my now peaceful house invited angels inside it. I lived. I truly lived, and not like I was dying…but because I am alive, because I am connected as a Mother and I will not waste another moment of that ever again.

And above all, I did not feel guilty for not cleaning. I did not feel bad that I had just barely gotten a shower even though it was past noon. I did not get frustrated that my plans had changed and that motherhood today meant completely giving myself and all of my attention to my son. Everything was perfect. And I truly mean that.

Everything has been perfect. In the past few weeks since being MIA in the blogging world, my life has been TRULY lived and that, my friends, is perfection.

Here’s to life, living it and (of course) documenting it via blog. Keep living, loving and writing, friends, and I’ll do the same. J Xoxo

CHEESE!

2011-10-12T12:38:00.000-07:00

Everyone already knows Lincoln is adorable. But, it has only been quite recently that he has found personal satisfaction in admiring pictures of himself.

If he sees me playing with my phone, he will run over, get the cheesiest grin on his cute little face and say, through gritted teeth, "Cheese!"

What a ham. My phone is full of these....and I love it.
Seriously the cutest thing ever. Once the picture is taken, he MUST see it. He'll laugh a little at his photogenic self and then run along playing again.

As for the rest of this past week:
---Anthony had his first self-hosted event last Saturday. Best. Thing. Ever. He is a natural born speaker, and I am a naturally proud.

---Gandolfo's for lunch. This must be mentioned because I discovered my new favorite cookie (and this is definitely saying something--trust me). The chocolate chunk. A solid layer of chocolate under the soft cookie part. Get it. You'll be in love.

---Lincoln wearing a hat all day long Saturday. Seriously, this is a big thing. I've been trying to put and keep a cap on him since birth...finally he tolerates it. (Well, backwards...but same thing, right?)

---Hiking in the beautiful colored mountains. Hiking and praying and meditating and enjoying.

---Going to the 24 hour Kinkos (Who knew, right?) at 2am Friday night.

---Christmas music. Don't judge me.

---Preparing content for this event coming up this weekend that I am so grateful to be speaking at.

---Looking over at the kitchen table and seeing Lincoln on top of it, standing and getting ready to knock the flower vase (and himself) right on over.

---Wassail nearly every night before bed. No matter how much my husband makes fun of me for being like an old lady.

---Halloween decs.

---and last, but not least, free day. Pizza, candy, dr pepper (you know it, friends, you know it)

Up this week? Arizona friendlies. Boo ya.

The True Mother in YOU

2011-10-05T09:49:00.000-07:00

This is it, friends. After a weekend of hearing it over and over from a variety of very wise leaders and teachers...I am no longer hiding.

This blog is a large part of why I am on this earth. It is time for me to create a movement of women and mothers who are ready to stand in their True power and fight, banded together. We no longer need to stand alone in motherhood, womanhood, in life.

This is why I have created a coaching program entitled, "Connect with Your Kids." This is about connecting with your kids, deeper. This is about knowing them, divinely. This is about remembering who YOU truly are. This is the journey I took, not alone--but with friends, coaches, mentors-- so I don't want you to be alone either.

Please, check out my new website. Chime in on the new Question and Answer series, so that we can try to get all topics covered on living our real potential as Women and mothers.

Love you all. And thank you for reading. Really.

Fifteen Months

2011-09-26T13:09:00.000-07:00

Lincoln's new obsession, to go right along with his binky:

A blankey. An old blankey. My little brother's baby blanket to be exact. He came across it at Grammy's and hasn't stopped clutching it since then.

Mostly I think this is adorable. Sometimes, however, I worry about "weaning" Link from these so-called obsessions. Binkies, blankets and the occasional attachment to a "ba ba."

Eh.
Anyways, on the few days after my little guys 15th month birthday, I have only one thing to say:

Being a mom to a walking, talking, climbing, diaper tanned, hot dog loving, gap-toothed, Cheeto addicted, blondie toddler? The. Greatest.

There are rare things I'd rather be doing than driving Lincoln, binky and blankey around town. Love you baby boy.

Grammy's Birthday

2011-09-20T09:15:00.000-07:00

For her birthday, Grammy was kind enough to take Baby Lincoln to the zoo for his first time.

It was too cute to see how much he loved it. And, I don't want to brag or anything...but the kid is good at animal imitations. Especially the tiger.

We are so grateful to my Mom. She is the most loving and caring Mother and grandmother. Because of her amazing example, I am the kind of Mom I am today...and that is a blessing to me AND Link.

Lincoln loves his Grammy. And not just because she took him to the zoo. Seriously, he adores her. Just like everyone else does.

Happy Birthday, MOM! We love you, and thanks for the fun at the zoo.

Now where are we headed off to? Grandma's, of course. xoxo

I Can Do Hard Things

2011-09-20T08:06:00.000-07:00

I have heard this phrase a lot. I've seen it on plaques, in vinyl lettering and on bathroom mirrors. I think it's wonderful and motivating.

One day I was in a copy center with my Mom. Somewhere in the store I spotted this saying and it made me think. Why do people love this statement so much? What does it strike within them that causes change and creates something better in their lives? Moreover, why do I like it so much? What is it about accomplishing hard things that makes us feel good?

Then, it occurred to me...the reason why this statement is so good...for me, anyway. Yes, I can do hard things but the greatest realization about my life and the the purpose of this life is that I HAVE done hard things and came out stronger!

I HAVE done hard things. I graduated from college (pregnant). I accepted my church calling as the choir director (scariest thing ever) and learned to love it. I planted a garden. I fell in love with a boy. I forgave loved ones. I went through child birth. I learned to like running. I did something I never thought I would do...coach a group of mothers over the phone. I embraced spiritual gifts. I bore my testimony even when in the face of rejection. I repented. I called a long-lost friend just because something told me to. I went through the divorce of my parents at age 18 (and came out with stronger faith). I saw loved ones die. I cried as people I care about rejected me and what I stand for. I fought & helped others see their Divinity. I crashed my car. I had mono while engaged (worst thing ever). I've been totally broke. I paid tithing anyway. I've watched my son suffer and almost died inside. I've had trials that made me look at my testimony and truly gained my own.

I HAVE done hard things. That is why I know I can do more hard things.
And, if there is one thing I have learned from these hard experiences...it is that life is NOT meant to be endured. Yes, endurance is key in getting through the tough stuff...but we should always remember that this life is meant to be joyful. The plan of happiness is for TODAY, not sometime in the future or even when we die.

I can do hard things and love it.

“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 all works out in the end. 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 we will pray to Him, if we will live worthy of His blessings, He will hear our prayer...Life is to be enjoyed, not just endured.” --Gordon B. Hinckley

I heard another great saying that, when put with the one I've been talking about, almost makes everything make sense. "How do you know you need an experience? You are having it."

Do hard things, learn from them, grow from them and become brighter in vibration. Just like you did in the past. Just like you will always do.

And enjoy life.

Anthony Albert

2011-09-12T08:15:00.000-07:00

I'm not one of those people who gets overly emotional in movies. Especially cartoon movies. I think I've cried in one movie that was not church related, and I probably cried because everyone else was and it seemed the right thing to do. I don't really get emotionally attached to little boys floating away in flying houses, or fireflies passing away in stories about a New Orleans princess.

But, for the reason that is the title of this post, I got pretty emotional in a movie about a lost princess with extremely long, blond hair. Rapunzel.

So, yes. I'm going to use a movie to help proclaim my love to my sweetheart on his birthday. A Disney movie, no less. And, if I was me two weeks ago, I might be making fun of myself...but that's okay. I've always wanted to be one of those people who throws out movie quotes like there's no tomorrow....so this is my heartfelt attempt at being a movie quote genius.

The quotes come from a song in the movie. A beautiful song. Inspired, in my opinion. And it explains perfectly the journey that led me to Tony and how he changed me, brought me to the Light and has kept it shining brighter everyday.

"All those days watching from the windows
All those years outside looking in
All that time never even knowing
Just how blind I've been
Now I'm here, blinking in the starlight
Now I'm here, suddenly I see
Standing here, it's all so clear
I'm where I am meant to be.
And at last I see the light
And it's like the fog has lifted
And at last I see the light
And it's like the sky is new
And it's warm and real and bright
And the world has somehow shifted
All at once everything looks different
Now that I see you."

And at last I see the Light. At last.

Happy 26th Birthday to the love of my life and my best friend. Thank you for being you and helping me find me.

I love you, babe.

Sometimes I lay awake at night...

2011-09-08T22:19:00.000-07:00

and hear the chirp of the crickets, the soft breeze of the trees and...wonder...

I wonder about the circumstances of my life. I wonder about the bills due. I wonder about my clients. I wonder about people and why they do the things that they do. I wonder about myself and I why I do the things that I do. I wonder about groceries and spotless kitchen floors. I wonder about birthdays and ages and time. I wonder about babies. I wonder about love and how much of it I hold for Anthony and Lincoln. I wonder about love and how much I keep it away from some people. I wonder why it is so hard to be good sometimes, to do the right thing and say the right thing. I wonder about courage. I wonder why it is difficult to be brave even when we know we have to. I wonder about darkness. I wonder about the power of my thoughts. I wonder about long lost binkys and socks in the wash. I wonder about how too often it seems like we don't have what we want, and yet forget that we are always blessed with what we need. I wonder about Heaven. I wonder about new opportunities. I wonder about spreading myself too thin. I wonder about spreading cream cheese on bagels. I wonder about dreams. I wonder about today and what I could change.

...And then suddenly, I stop wondering and do. I Act. I Execute. I Create. I Change. I Develop. I Carry on. I Enhance. I Believe.

I never just endure. I never want to just lay sleeplessly in bed for the rest of my life. I want to be awake. I want to arise. I want to live ALIVE.

It seems like these moments of taking control of our lives happen all of the time. Again and again. Over and over until we awaken again to the reality of ourselves and our power. The difference between just wondering about my life and wondering with the intent of taking creative action is vital.

I hope and pray to always be in that place. Taking action. Living the life that I create. Having the relationships that I dream of. Being abundantly joyful in every aspect of my existence.

This, my dear blogger friends, is what life is all about...

...Creating an amazing life and then getting out in the sun to celebrate. Literally, straight into the sun, as the pictures suggest. (hilarious, right?)

xoxo, friends. Happy Weekend.

Garden Gal

2011-09-06T10:12:00.000-07:00

This Summer, I managed to fulfill a New Years Creation (or Resolution) of mine.

Yes, I made these. Well, I grew them. In my garden. All by myself. With the help of the sun, water, good soil and a little TLC. Yes, they are mine. They are delicious. And I am proud.

Growing a garden is a creation. And creating is a wonderful gift that we should all incorporate into our daily lives. We should create even when we are afraid of not having a green thumb. We should create despite the inevitability of weeds. We should create even if it is our first try and we are scared of failing. We should keep creating if we really do fail (on the strawberries). We should create even if it takes having to water the garden at midnight because you forgot during the day.

We should always create. Because it feels (and tastes) good.

So here's to this years tomatoes, cucumbers and cilantro....and next years additions: strawberries (heaven help me), raspberries, squash, peppers, peas, onions and some other herbs TBA. Oh yeah, and a little repair and painting of the gate surrounding my garden location. (It was a last minute decision)

What's in your garden this year?

Weekend Rewind

2011-08-29T16:42:00.000-07:00

<-------- My Grandpa Taylor's 88th birthday party. Pulling weeds. Laughing with cousins. Free Day aka donuts, Dr. Pepper, chips, Bajio shrimp & pineapple salad, chocolate, cupcakes, cookies. Shopping with sisters and Mom. Loving the sales at the mall. Buying new skirts. Browsing baby clothes for Link and admiring the newborn outfits....yikes. Riverwoods. Holding hands with Tony and Link at the Riverwoods. Watching Link hold hands with a random little girl at the Riverwoods. Realizing that my son is a giant flirt. Splash pad. Realizing my son is a water and girl lover. Ropes course. Watching my life flash before my eyes while balancing on a tightrope. Loving on my nephew Ryan. Church. Pulling Link in his little red wagon. Delicious Sunday dinner at Mom's. Late night movie with Anthony. Cuddling on the couch. Falling asleep, yet again (sorry babe), to Star Wars. --------->

It was a good one.

Perspective

2011-08-24T18:14:00.000-07:00

This new expression from Link comes up when:

He hears an airplane, firetruck, lawnmower or dog barking outside, or when he throws a toy on the wood floor and it makes a seriously loud crash, or when something amazing catches his eye such as a balloon, cell phone or bag of marshmallows...or when I ask him to pose cute for a picture.

Apparently, there are a lot of surprisingly incredible things in this world...and that face will attest to it.

I could never take Lincoln outside too many times, show him the neighbors cat sneak into our backyard or play some upbeat music for him enough to ever see him become sick of it. He loves everything about life and enjoys every new and old discovery.

It's like when I tell him it is bath time. All I have to do is say, "Hey bubb, BATH!", and he runs into the bathroom squealing with joy at the very idea of playing in the water. Again. For the second time that day and tenth time that week. It doesn't matter.

Joy is joy. Happiness is happiness.

It's all about perspective.

And this little dude has the most positive perspective of anyone I know. What a way to live.

Today, I choose to change my perspective from:

-A drab workout to an exciting chance to test the limits of my physical body
-Having to make dinner to discovering a new spice or recipe
-Watering what seems like nearly dead flowers to experiencing the beauty of nature
and finally,
-Waking up tired, grouchy and unmotivated to rising to a day full of creation, passion and love.

What's your new perspective?

Big Boy Lincoln

2011-08-19T08:19:00.000-07:00

Mr. Lincoln Anthony got his first haircut last Friday.

And the results were adorable and somewhat frightening...Only because my baby boy turned into a little boy. Seriously.

Right?

Today I feel so thankful for my little sweetheart. It was because I was pregnant with him that I began changing myself. I began waking up to the reality of my Divinity.

Because of him, I am more connected to myself, to Heavenly Father. In addition, I have a spiritual and energetic connection to Lincoln.

I KNOW who he is, inside and out. I see that he too is awake to who he really is...and it's exciting to be a parent.

Plain and simple.

Have a great weekend, dear friends. Check out this to see what I've been up to lately.

School is Cool

2011-08-12T00:33:00.000-07:00

I have to admit.

I'm kinda done with Summer.

Gasp!, I know. My husband will be the first to tell you that it is a pet peeve of mine when people complain about the weather. Especially people from Utah who are desperate for Summer when it is Winter and desperate for Winter when it is Spring...It especially pushes my buttons when Utahns are utterly shocked when it snows in late April or early May. This happens every year in our great state, people! It's Utah, greatest snow on earth, remember?

So yes, basically what I am saying is that I'm being one of those people I usually make fun of. (Which tends to happen to me more often than not...but isn't that usually how it goes?)

Anyway, about Summer. I've been thinking lately that it's too hot. And I'm kinda done trying to keep my flower pots from dying. And done watering the grass three times a day. And done wasting extreme amounts of energy in running our swamp cooler at full blast twenty-four/seven.

BUT! In processing my obvious hate for these hot summer days...I came to the real conclusion of my anxiety...

I love school. Well, I loveD school. Even after having graduated college, I still yearn for that first day of class. Brand new clothes and shoes. A spiffy new backpack, complete with fresh notebooks and writing utensils. I revel in the thought of meeting new friends in an unfamiliar classroom, catching up with old friends in the quad and hearing the school bell ring.

It was always so exciting, and apparently...it still is. Thank heavens for places like Walmart that display the school supplies right out there in front for all (even the stay-at-home Mommas) to see.

I'm pretty sure my excitable "First Day of School" self would be totally okay with receiving a bouquet of newly sharpened pencils.

And, if I were going back to school this fall--I would definitely hope to be wearing something like this:

(picture via people.com)

So cute, right? And she even has a baby with her, too. Eh, what the heck! Who needs to be a student to feel the excitement of a new school year?

School shopping? Yes, please.

Does anyone else feel this excited? If so, let me know. I'll be sure to send your pencil bouquet right on over.

The Other Day I was Running

2011-08-09T10:02:00.000-07:00

...and it occured to me:

I am a Mother.

This was a strange realization and perhaps it was because I have spent the last week "vacationing" with my wonderful Mom and seeing all that she is and all that she does....but....

That person is me. I'm the person who cuts Link's poptart into 8 tiny squares. I'm the person who sings the "Winnie the Pooh" theme song as I open the blinds each morning. I'm the person chasing a running toddler through the adoring crowd at the mall. I'm the person watching Sesame Street and dancing to Elmo's world. I'm the person that would rather buy alphabet magnets for the refrigerator than anything for myself. I'm the person with binkies in my pocket, bottles in my purse and several pairs of size 4 shoes in the back seat of my car.

This person is me, in all of my craziness, youngness, not-knowing-ness, immaturity and glory...I am the Mom.

Sometimes life is just so fast that I forget the greatness of my job as a Mommy. I forget the eternal effects that I am creating. I forget how blessed I am. I forget that I am me, the mother, the example, the best friend, the one my son looks up to and counts on.

And, I often forget that the happiness I find in motherhood and the way that I am finding joy for both me and my son...are perfect.

Like a week or so ago, when it was pouring rain--and all baby boy wanted to do was go outside. It was almost bedtime, and a nighttime bath was already in the plans...so I thought, "what the hey." So we went outside, in the torrential rain, getting soaked within thirty seconds. We danced and Lincoln laughed like it was the greatest thing ever. Forget expensive toys...all this guy needed was a crazy mom to let him stamp in the puddles and teach him how to drink the raindrops.

After coming inside, I felt slightly foolish... I don't know why, but mostly because I was letting my shadow self come out. I imagined the neighbors staring out their windows thinking I was the worst mom ever. After feeling bad for myself for a minute, I looked into Link's eyes. He was in the bathtub by now and all I could see was happiness. He was loving being wet. He was loving being crazy. He was loving life. He was loving me. Loving me just the way I am.

As the mother. His mother. And I will always be grateful for the privilege & confident in the kind of mom I was always meant to be.

(After our adventure in the rain)

And, I always know...that no matter how tough & cool he gets, he'll always love me if I always love myself, who I am.

The mother.

Laughing like Children, Living like Lovers

2011-07-30T09:57:00.000-07:00

Though the rest of Elton John's song "I Guess That's Why They Call it The Blues"--doesn't necessarily fit our story....this line definitely does.

Laughing like Children, Living like Lovers....and well, you know the rest :)

Anthony and I are always laughing, joking and playing. He is my best friend, and on this day of our anniversary, I am feeling blessed. Blessed that we made it through tough times. Blessed that we made it out of them better than before. Blessed that we empower each other everyday, and that he makes me better.

Blessed that he is mine.

And, more than anything, blessed that the rest of my eternity will be spent joking and laughing it up like children and falling in love everyday like lovers.

Happy Anniversary, Anthony. I love you more than Dr. Pepper.

On the celebration agenda? Harry Potter 7.2 and a fancy-shmancy dinner. Laughing, loving and....

xoxo.

California in a Nutshell

2011-07-29T10:50:00.000-07:00

About two weeks ago, we ventured to California.

It was a quick trip, a blink of an eye, really.

We traveled to see my Daddy get married. And it was beautiful. Beautiful weather. Beautiful people. Beautiful ocean. Beautiful occasion.

It was also one of the longest weekends of my life.

You see, after about 7 hours of driving--we finally arrived in Las Vegas. Halfway. Phew. We were on a roll.

Or so we thought.

Since baby boy was done driving for a few minutes, we decided to take a long rest and eat some dinner in Caesar's Palace at the Cheesecake Factory. While changing a diaper and noticing that Lincoln was much fussier than just sitting in a car for too long would have done---I felt the fever.

Yes, Link got a fever, runny nose and probably a sore throat. He was miserable...and we were already too far from home to make turning around worth it. We had to go on. We had to dream of the nice hotel bed six hours away. We had to stop in the tiniest town to search & search for baby triaminic. We had to sing our baby to sleep, knowing that he would probably wake up a few hours later and still be in the car. We had to have faith.

We had to pray. And we did. We prayed for the next six hours. And we made it.

After about six stops all-together, a few blowout diapers and diaper changes on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere and resorting to letting our one-year-old baby eat Popsicles in the car....we arrived in California.

After this trip, I am totally sure of three things. One, there is nothing that causes you to rely more in your Heavenly Father than seeing your child suffer. Two, I will have a home on the beach someday. And finally, trips to California are not meant to be less than three days. (Oh yeah, and rolled tacos just off the La Jolla beach are AMAZING!)

Thankfully, Lincoln started feeling better--and made the cutest ring bearer.

Unfortunately, our camera died just after this picture and we didn't get any other pics of the weekend....not even of Lincoln's first encounter with the ocean.

Basically though, he thought it was scary and had a much better time hanging out with "bom-bom", aka Grandpa.

Congrats Dad and Colleen! xoxo

Seriously, my baby boy is a daredevil

2011-07-14T19:11:00.000-07:00

The other day I walked into the family room and saw Lincoln using the bottom of his left foot to hoist his entire body onto the coffee table. This table is as tall as his upper chest. After accomplishing what seemed like a daunting task, he stood on the table and threw his hands together, clapping and screaming with joy.

He was proud.

I was terrified.

Okay, maybe I was a little proud--but come on! Who taught this kid how to do that? Furthermore, who taught him how to have a hilarious sense of humor, to tease, and giggle at just the right time? Who taught him how to dance right on beat, hide his cheerios under the couch to enjoy later and do a yoga-type headstand?

Who taught him to be such a dang busy-body?

As soon as Link had decided that he was done being on the coffee table, nothing would stop him from getting down. Not gravity, for sure. So, he took a jump for it. Thankfully, I was sitting close by--and used my Mommy intution to turn around right when it could have gotten messy.

Basically, Anthony and I are on our toes all day every day with this guy.

And, we are taking him to the beach this weekend. Call us crazy. We'll probably agree.

As for what else is going on in the Purcell home, there's a lot of building of this and this. Amazing things going on in my new business as well as Anthony's relationship coaching. Suffice it to say, we are just as busy as Lincoln is.

Life is good. And I truly mean that.

Now, off to sunny California. Lata.

Summer Pics via Android

2011-07-08T15:50:00.000-07:00

Busy eating popsicles and soaking up the sun like there is no tomorrow.

Happy weekend.

Hey Mom's Out There!

2011-07-05T12:30:00.001-07:00

The RevMom Academy is launching their next 8-week coaching program, starting July 11. RevMom was established to assist mothers in finding passion, peace and purpose in motherhood. Their goal is to help the everyday mom become more fulfilled in the experience of motherhood, and by so doing create greater happiness and purpose in their own lives as Divine women.

We all have greatness in us, and the RevMom Academy is enabling Mother's to tap into their power and share their Light with the world.

And, I have the opportunity to be a part of this amazing movement. I will be coaching 3-4 sessions on how to read your children spiritually & energetically. As we begin to understand more about ourselves and the powers we have, we as Mother's also have the ability to use that power to connect to and understand our children on deeper levels than we ever dreamed.

So, are you ready to transform your motherhood experience? Are you ready to find greater power in yourself, your abilities as a mother and in your children? Are you ready to make a drastic difference in the world by finding true purpose in the work you do in your own home?....

I cannot wait!

A One-Year Celebration

2011-07-01T16:06:00.000-07:00

For Lincoln's First Birthday party, I wanted to go all out. I wanted to celebrate his life. I wanted to party in a way that my little wild child does every day.

So, it was a jungle themed par-tay. And it was awesome.

Yes, that is a jungle tree you see in the middle of our living room. Thanks to my sisters for helping me decorate. I like to think I am pretty creative, but Chels and Lace beat me hands down.

After opening a few presents,

We let our little buddy eat cake....and, for the first time ever, he wasn't too interested in dessert (go figure).

He took a few (forced) bites, and then decided to "share"....

Then Link got pretty messy, so running through the sprinklers, which is his new favorite thing, was a must.

All in all it was a fun and exhausting day. Just ask Lincoln and his cousin, Ryan.

A ride around the block in his new wagon and pj's was just what our little prince needed.

Happy birthday, my sleeping baby. Just as precious as one year ago.

My Little Lincoln,

2011-06-27T11:40:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday, you turned one years old.

All day, you kept holding up your little "One-year-old" finger and smiling with delight, like you knew it was a special day.
I kept smiling too, because as each hour passed--I remembered that this year with you has been the greatest of my entire life.

Some people might say it was coincidence (although I don't believe it was)-- but on the morning of your first birthday, while I fed you cinnamon toast and milk and whispered "I love you, baby", you decided to share your own admiration. Through your gap-toothed smile you responded back, "love you" for the first time...and I melted. I realized then that I will do anything to make you feel so much joy from me as I felt in that moment.

So on your very first birthday, we ventured to the Living Planet Aquarium. You revelled in delight as the colorful fish swam up to your nose. You are so smart, and you learned how to say "fisss" (fish) in just moments after being introduced to the real life Nemo. You loved the jellyfish, and made a swishing noise as they floated through the big water tank. It was especially adorable when you saw the penguins and kept growling---feeling pretty brave until I tried to get you to take a picture next to a life-size replica of a baby penguin. That was a little scary, huh? That's okay...next time. After seeing a couple of tarantulas and giant snakes, which didn't phase you at all, Daddy and I had the idea to take you to Chuck-e-Cheese for dinner. You enjoyed this more than I anticipated, and showed us some of your dancing moves to the Chuck E band. Throughout all of this, your Dad and I couldn't help but kiss you every chance we could. You were so adorable, walking with such "swagger" through the coral reefs and arcade games.

I kept thinking that you looked like you owned the world. And guess what buddy? It's true. The world is yours. Explore it, cherish it. You have the power to accomplish anything in your life, and this first year was a great start.

Happy First Birthday--to my curly-haired cutie, my big blue-eyed handsome sweetheart, best buddy and cuddle bug.

Love,
Mommy

(more on Lincoln's Jungle-themed birthday party with family to come. Here's your preview...see, you don't want to miss it :)

This Little Piggy...

2011-06-17T21:10:00.000-07:00

I am quite certain that if I had such cute feet, I'd chew on them too:

(Oh, wait. He does sneak up and try to bite my toes off while I'm innocently resting my feet on the coffee table.)

Have a happy weekend, friends. Soak up some sun...we certainly will be.

Oh yeah, and here's my most recent proud moment of the week....

Anthony and his latest audio cd. He launched it this weekend at a Prosperity Summit that he spoke at. It will be available to the public next week.

More to come....

Joannie Baloney

2011-06-14T19:21:00.000-07:00

As I was writing my last post--I thought the crazy sickness in our house was over.

Until a few days later I caught Lincoln's flu...and then, this appeared:

Yes, so much vomiting caused a blood vessel in my eye to burst. Thankfully, it looks a lot more painful than it felt. The strange looks I got in the grocery store were probably worse...

After a few long days of staying inside watching movies and eating nothing but saltine crackers & Dr. Pepper-- I took some time relaxing with a special birthday girl and other fam.

There is nothing like spending time with the girls, eating good food and getting glitter toes to celebrate the birthday of a really great gal.

Happy Birthday, Jo. My sister-in-law turned sister. Love you much.

Week.End.

2011-06-07T10:50:00.000-07:00

Oh boy.

My weekend was an overload of brand new things.

Firstly, it started out with little baby Link having his first flu. Yes, I mean throwing up in the crib, in Mom and Dad's bed, on the floor, in the bathtub...and once in the bucket (phew). It was horribly sad to see his big eyes fill up with tears at the confusing situation.

Anthony and I spent the day cuddling our little bug, which in and of itself wasn't too disappointing :)

(And, on a side note: Check out the adorableness of Lincoln's gap-toothed smile. I absolutely love it.)

Secondly, I started my veggie garden. Picture tomato, cilantro and cucumber plants blooming. I hope to add a strawberry plant or two as well--but we'll see if my green thumb agrees with me first.

And finally, I have experienced amazing connections that I never thought would happen in this stage of my life. Ever since I started my other blog, I have had people approaching me about business opportunities that will align perfectly with my mission in life.

I am excited, scared, and totally ready to get my message out there. And, it is all starting here. More info on my interaction with Revolution Motherhood to come.

Oh, and Lincoln also had another new "first" this weekend:

Toddler car seat. The best. Mom loves peeking at him from the front seat, watching him dance, point at the cars, and slowly drift to sleep with the sippy cup straw still hanging from his mouth.

All in all, a fantastic weekend. Welcome, Summer!!!

I love Technology

2011-06-01T20:33:00.000-07:00

Of all the times I find myself cursing technology, or wishing cell phones didn't cause so much distraction--sometimes I am sure am grateful for my handy cell phone camera when the moment is just too precious to ignore.

Thank heavens for technology, right?

Word, g-mon.

And Then There Were Two

2011-05-31T21:29:00.000-07:00

I have to admit. I hardly ever watched Oprah.

I saw it a few times as a kid when my mom would be folding laundry on a Summer day. Mostly though, I wasn't in on the latest Oprah-news. For her last show though, I guess I wanted to be a part of history or something--because I decided to record it.

Today, I watched it. And, like the millions upon millions of people in the last 25 years--I was inspired.

Basically, I learned truth as I watched the final Oprah Winfrey show--and this is why:

"...Everybody has a calling, and your real job in life is to find it... You also have to know what sparks the light in you so that you in your own way can illuminate the world."

Thanks, Oprah--for giving me more courage to stand up in my calling. Because you see, dear blogger friends--it has been awhile since I have blogged. Sometimes (with last week being one of these) I wonder why I share the things that I do. I often become afraid of what I have to say and who won't like it or understand it.

But, the truth is this--I know what sparks the light in me. I know what I believe and when I have the nerve to share it, a fire illuminates in my heart. I know that I have a calling--and darned if I shy away and not share it.

So, without further ado--announcing my new blog, purely dedicated to fulfilling my calling and igniting the spark within me:

A Healer's Script

Check it out. You may like it. I know Oprah would.

and a PS... The Purcell Prose is still going strong, don't you fret. Here you will continue finding chubby cheek pictures of Linky-babe and the goings-on of Anthony and Abigail.

I hope you enjoy both blogs...

just like little Lincoln has learned to enjoy sweets of all kinds.

yikes....

Manic Monday

2011-05-23T18:25:00.000-07:00

Right now, I am:

1. Watching Anthony make homemade hamburgers and baked fries for dinner. Yum.
2. Thanking him over and over for taking over dinner tonight--because me? Well, I'm hurting --real bad-- do to the fact that I am weaning Lincoln. Ouch is right.
3. Laughing at Lincoln's Doritos mustache. Yep--basically, baby boy is eating whatever he wants today since Momma milk is out of commission.
4. Feeling proud about this adorable sight from this morning:

(What 11-month-old baby lines up his stuffed animals in a perfectly organized manner? This one...)

5. Wondering what the heck happened to the last eleven months? In exactly one month my curly haired best friend will be ONE year old.
6. Contemplating party plans.
7. Thinking about how, in May, we are barbecuing burgers on the griddle inside. Psh, that rain!
8. Melting, as Lincoln continuously grunts like a manly-man as he watches Daddio BBQ.
9. Thanking the rain for making the grass super green and the flowers bloom like crazy.
10. Drinking Dr. Pepper and checkin' out my husband. Because I can.

Just another manic Monday.

Teach Me, Teach Me

2011-05-17T19:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, my heart melted, dropped to my stomach and then rose up again with utter joy, as my little-big boy pitter-patted toward me all on his own two feet, and said:

"Mom?"

"Yes, Bubby?"

He was carrying a book, Green Eggs & Ham. He held it up to me, "Hmmm?..."

The "hmmm" obviously meant, Will you read this to me?, because without having heard my answer yet, Lincoln curled onto my lap, opened the cover and began pointing at the colorful pages.

Tears instantly came to my eyes at the realization that my son was beginning to love the written word, just like his Mommy.

And so, we read. We read all about "Sam I Am" and then, my ten-month-old walking genius, hobbled over to his stack of books and pulled out another...then another and another.

As I sat, crossed legged on the carpet with a sweet baby in my lap, I realized that my love will never stop growing for him. On a daily basis, every minute--my adoration for him expands.

I want to teach him everything I can, and none of it will be wasted time. I'll teach him how to ride a bike, that poetry is a release of the soul, that the Light is always stronger than darkness, and how to make healthy food. I'll show him the joy of playing in the sun, that toast is always better with homemade jam, and how to dress like a hunk.

More than anything, I want to teach and re-teach him everyday...that he is a Child of God.

And he will know it, deep down, just like he knows that cuddling with Momma and reading a book is her favorite thing in the world.

What are you teaching your children, nieces, nephews or friends? Share the love...

Whispered Words of Wisdom

2011-05-13T21:03:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been thinking about the phrase, "Let it be."

This phrase is simple. It's short and blunt. It rolls off the tongue nicely. I've seen it written on book-bags, t-shirts, bumper stickers and jewelry...

And lately, it has come to mean a lot to me.

I know I have a purpose. I know that my existence on this earth isn't by accident. I know, and shall never forget, that this life is a gift and that the experiences I have faced will enable me to help others. I know I have a work to do and I understand that it will take time, energy and absolute dedication.

I also used to think that in order for my purpose to be fulfilled, I needed to be stressed, worrying and running all of the time. I thought that every spare moment I had should be devoted to writing my book or blog, and sending my message of light to the masses. I fretted when I would use that extra time for meaningless chores, responsibilities or hobbies. I'd think, "Why am I doing the dishes right now? I should be pouring my head into a paper and pen". I'd feel guilty about watching Modern Family on a Wednesday with Anthony, instead of doing online research about gunshot wounds (yes, that is a hint for my book :).

Then, I discovered something awesome. Well, in truth, a friend helped me discover it. She simply said, "Let your life drive your mission, not your mission drive your life."

In other words, let it be.

If sleeping in & cuddling with Tony and Lincoln, instead waking up to study and meditate, is what you need to do--let it be.

If you are about to sit down and write, and Lincoln tugs on your pant leg, mumbling "fffrrrrussshcckk" (truck) because he hears the garbage truck outside and obviously wants to go see it--let it be.

If Macy's is having a sale and that is the only thing you really want to do at the moment--let it be.

If taking a shower means cognitively going through the latest chapter of your book while lathering shampoo into your hair--let it be.

If you then forget everything you had brilliantly made up for the latest chapter of your book because you had to be in the shower when it came to you, and happened to have neither a pen, pencil or paper anywhere within arms reach--let it be.

If Heavenly Father wants you to experience life as it is, and base the purpose of your mission on living life rather than making it up--let it be.

Let it be.

The Beatles were right to make such words so famous, and to me--these words mean everything and nothing (if that makes any sense at all)... and it is basically this:

Everything unfolds in divine timing.

So, whatever your life's mission is, whatever you strive to achieve, share with the world or become for yourself--let what is to be, be. Let go of the stress, the "I should be's" and live life how and where it is right now.

Trust me, it is refreshing.

"It all works out. Don't worry. I say that to myself every morning. It will all work out." --Gordon B. Hinckley

Happy weekend, friends. xoxo

Mothers, Daughters, Sisters, Friends

2011-05-10T19:10:00.000-07:00

This is a special tribute to all of the women in my life who have become second Mother's to my little Lincoln.

Each of you helped make my transition from crazy lady who doesn't know what the heck she is doing--to Mother. And I can't thank you enough.

"As mothers in Israel, we are the secret weapon. Our influence comes from a divine endowment that has been in place from the beginning. In the premortal world, when our Father described our role, I wonder if we didn't stand in wide-eyed wonder that He would bless us with a sacred trust so central to His plan." (Are We Not All Mothers?, Sheri Dew).

Happy Mother's Day, to each and every one of you who were placed in Lincoln's life.

We are eternally grateful.

Happy Mother's Day 2011.

Spring Creating

2011-05-06T12:48:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been on a Spring cleaning extravaganza.

You know, cleaning out the kitchen pantry, organizing bedroom closets, changing furniture around...things like that.

There is such a great feeling of satisfaction when you walk into a newly organized and decorated room. As I gazed at my most recent project, I thought to myself-- "Why can't everything look like this all of the time? Why can't the kitchen floor be forever void of cracker crumbs, or my shoes in the closet be neatly paired and lined-up constantly? Why must cleaning, decorating, organizing and straightening be a daily occurrence instead of a one-time fix?"

The answer came quickly, quietly and inspired. Think of how much joy you are experiencing because of what you did today. Why not feel that all of the time?

It was true. Though it had taken time, hard-work and even some mommy muscle power--I felt totally and completely satisfied with myself. I felt like a Creator--and I didn't want that feeling to ever stop.

Sometimes cleaning the house feels like purging a natural disaster epicenter just after the storm ended. But the truth is that the joy, pride and fulfillment I receive from doing it is worth the everyday adventure.

I have organized and reorganized my home a bazillion times, and felt personal fulfillment every single time--but I always forget about it, especially when it seems as though my work gets destroyed a few minutes later. The reality is that I need to Create everyday. I need to be reminded of the happiness I receive when I have cleaned a disheveled corner, decorated a bland wall with a splash of color and a few pictures, vacuumed yet another cookie smashed into the carpet, or found a new way to arrange the furniture.

My Spirit loves the creation of it. And so--I must learn to find joy in it, always. I must release the belief that cleaning is a chore, a constant job that is never finished. Instead, see it as a creative pursuit to establishing more joy, satisfaction and enlightenment amidst a world of chaos and frustration.

Besides, when it comes to getting things done--I've got plenty of help from this little volunteer.

Oh, joy.

When You Smile, the Whole World Stops & Stares

2011-05-04T23:11:00.000-07:00

Is it just me, or has my baby suddenly turned into a little boy...like overnight?

Lincoln is walking around three+ steps at a time, clicking his tongue to the beat of the music on his toy clock, holding his pointer finger up when we ask him how old he is going to be, eating peanut-butter sandwiches and drinking orange juice, sleeping 10-12 hours every night, taking 2 or less naps a day, telling us what a doggy says and imitating the sound of a firetruck, and growing up to be quite the little, sneaky character.

Oh yeah, and he is officially out of his infant car seat.
He must be a toddler now. Oh boy.
And then there is me, enjoying every baby-baby moment I can with him.

First Mother's Day as a mother? Feels good...

Pomp and Circumstance

2011-05-03T19:15:00.000-07:00

Last Friday was a day I will never forget, and a day that I will never regret.

Since I technically finished classes last Summer, I felt like walking at graduation this Spring was pointless, random and too far gone. I was worried that people would think it was old news, because to me--it felt like it was. My life has been completely different in the last nine months--and going back to a place that just didn't seem a part of me anymore felt almost boastful.

But a few people, you know who you are, encouraged me to walk. They helped me remember, once again, how great of an accomplishment it is to graduate college, with a degree you love and knowledge that you will use for your whole life. I could never thank any of you enough--those who talked me into walking, showed up to watch me receive my diploma, yelled and screamed as I stood on the stage and shook the Dean's hand, and took off work just to be there for me.

As I walked across that stage, I have never felt such a surge of accomplishment in my life. I worked hard. I stayed up late. I spent money. I wrote paper after paper. I read poem after poem and essay after long and tiring essay. I carried a child in my stomach for nine-months of my schooling. I learned how to be a better writer. I read classic novels that some people never even pick up in a lifetime. I sweat. I toiled.

And I did it.

And that is certainly something to celebrate.

(I even got to share my day with my sister-in-law Joannie...love you, Jo!)

And, what better way to celebrate--than with pizza and family?

Thanks to everyone who came, cheered, brought flowers, leis and other wonderful gifts---just to support me (and hold my baby :)

Oh, and of course--no good graduation is complete without a new dress to sport with the cap and gown. I love my Mom so much for being so thoughtful.

Now on to bigger and better things...and one of those things just spilled clorox all over my kitchen rug. Yikes.

Lincoln's First Easter

2011-05-03T18:38:00.000-07:00

Surprisingly, Easter turned out to be quite the event for our little family. Finding eggs hidden by the Easter Bunny came naturally to Lincoln--and he had a jubilant time. It was adorable seeing him grab the egg, try to squash it to pieces in his hand, and then throw it in the basket Daddy had ready for him--all while screaming with joy at the top of his lungs. He didn't mind digging into a couple of Easter baskets either--and by digging, I mean pulling everything out and throwing it in the most unorganized manner possible.

And you are totally right if you guessed that the bunny ears didn't stay on for longer than twenty seconds at a time...

Lincoln even had the opportunity to play with Grandma Purcell's real bunny on Easter. He enjoyed it...but only from a safe distance.

And of course, Anthony and I weren't too mad about the candy that Link-babe had no interest in hiding at the bottom of his baskets.

We hope you all had a Happy Easter, bawk bawk!!!

Pay it Forward

2011-04-27T09:51:00.000-07:00

Every once and awhile in life, there are those humbling moments that make you wish you were better and also give you a little more faith in humanity.

It happens when you least expect it--like when you are taking the garbage out. You are in your backyard, slightly irritated that you, in your nice jeans, are taking out the trash when it really should be hubby's job. You slam the garbage can lid down, and then someone from the other side of the gate says:

"Excuse me?"

You're bugged that someone is trying to be friendly when you feel nothing close to it. You answer, and see your unfamiliar neighbor peeking through the holes in the tattered old fence that you probably cursed about earlier when you saw it.

He is holding a shovel, standing next to a wheelbarrow and a large pile of fertilizer. "Do you need some fertilizer over there?"

It turns out that you did need fertilizer...quite badly, in fact. You could almost hear your flower gardens cheering with joy. "Well, yeah," you answer. "I do."

He smiles. "'Cause we got a ton over here and wouldn't mind gettin' rid of some of it...where do ya want it?"

Oh no, you think. You didn't want someone to do you a favor. That would mean you would owe them something, right? "Well, in the front yard..." you answer, and then quickly, "but just dump it somewhere, anywhere--and I'll spread it where I want it."

He doesn't seem to notice your hesitation in receiving a helping hand. "Like in the flower gardens up front?"

"Yeah, but just dump it anywhere...and I'll spread it. Thank you!"

You walk up the deck and inside as he hollers "Your welcome."

A few hours later you and your spouse come home from running errands. It is dark, dusk. You can barely see where the pile of fertilizer is--and then you realize something amazing, wonderful, surprising, and humbling. There is no pile. The fertilizer is spread, clean and beautifully in your flower gardens--neatly arranged around the flowers and bushes. It looked professionally done and you feel happy. Then, you begin to calculate how long it might have taken them.

After admiring the extreme generosity for awhile, you turn to your husband and say, "That must have taken them hours. Why would they do that for us? They barely know us."

Hubby smiles and shrugs, and then walks inside--leaving you in wonderment of the kindness of a stranger.

The wonderment only takes a few moments to turn into gratefulness. You look out at the dark sky, and realize again (because the truth is that good things are happening around you all of the time) that people are kind, thoughtful and generous. Love is a quality within everyone. Even when your day is bad, and you seem to treat the world like it is your sworn enemy--there are good souls out there, just waiting to change your mind about everything...not because they have to, but because they want to.

The next day you ransack the recipe book. You want to thank them. You want to let them know that you appreciate who they are, what they did and the fact that it just broke the wedge of unfamiliarity that once stood between you. After settling with, of all things, store-bought cookies and taking them over with a thank-you card--you learn but one more thing from these good Samaritans of neighbors....

All they needed was a visit, a verbal & grateful thank-you, and the promise in your heart to pay it forward.

And so you do, and it is the greatest reward.

Mini-Vaca Part 2

2011-04-26T18:32:00.000-07:00

The last part of our spring break trip was Veggggaaassss.

After shellacking a large amount of sunscreen on Lincoln, we spent three days discovering the Vegas Strip. It is truly amazing how many cool things you can see that have nothing to do with the "sin city" side of Las Vegas. We had an awesome time seeing the sights of nearly every large city in the world--while vacationing in just one place.

The best part though--seeing Lincoln's chubby, little finger pointing in awe at all of the lights and sounds of the city. Everything was "ohhh, whoa, wow."

Anthony and I? Well, we were frequently beaming with pride as nearly everyone who saw the baby either waved at him, opened the door for us to wheel his stroller through, told us how cute he was, or wanted to touch him and his chunky knees.

All in all, it was a great trip-- eating the Las Vegas style buffet (you KNOW I loved that!), swimming in our hotel pool on the roof, watching a man practically get mauled by a lion, pretending to gamble, getting a teeny-tiny taste of Italy again at the Venetian, trying CiCi's Pizza for the first time (Tony has been dying to take me there since we met), almost seeing a movie star, Snookie, and then realizing it wasn't her and then realizing again that she was probably the last "star" we would ever wish to see, and finally (my favorite) the Fountains of the Bellagio.

A special thank you to my Mom and sisters, for hanging with us one night.

After a few days though, we were slightly stir crazy...

and Link was tired beyond all reason...

So, after 7 hours of driving in the car with a baby who was just plain done with sitting in a carseat and being strapped in a stroller--we are happy to be home.

Own the Night

2011-04-22T23:25:00.000-07:00

Last night I was alone. Anthony was away for the night and I was left alone to sleep in a giant queen-sized bed...alone. (Did I mention that I was alone?)

Alone. At night. This is a big thing for me. Ever since I can remember, the creaks and groans of an empty house at night have terrified me. They could be the same old thing--the steady drum of the neighbors diesel truck outside, the whistle of the breeze as it dances through the window panes, the tiny droan of the heater as it turns off and on and then off again...

For a long time, after I was married, when Anthony would be away for business or something--I would find peace of mind at my mom's house. Oh, how wonderful the simple knowledge that someone is close by can be. Even if it's your little sister, or the family cat...heck, I'd even take Mr. Weather Man on the 10 o'clock news as good company.

Today though, I am the Mother. Like my mom has done with me for years, I am now the comforter in the dark night. It is my job to wrap my protecting arms around a child who just had a nightmare. It is my duty and privilege to console.

More importantly, it is my calling --as a mother-- to let Light into my home...Even in the loneliest of nights, even when Anthony is gone, even if I have to have Toy Story 3 playing in the background all night long.

Earlier, when I was still feeling slightly uneasy--I was talking to hubby on the phone and he said, "Those scared thoughts may try to enter your mind, but you have the power to let them in or not."

Last night, I learned that my Light is stronger than any darkness out there. It is up to me whether I decide to let it brighten the fearful thoughts and turn the dark, empty sky into a beautiful, protective ceiling of glitter.

Forever and always, my son and I will sleep easy--because the Light is on.

Mini-Vaca Part 1

2011-04-21T23:16:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we wore ourselves out. There is nothing like a vacation to remind you that every day life is just as exciting, happy, adventurous and slightly tiring as being on-the-go.

It was a wonderful get-away. We made our way down to St. George and spent three days with my Grandparents. They showed us a great time and Lincoln was happy to get to know them a little better.

We saw some beautiful red rock scenery.

And ate some delicious food--which, in my opinion, is the major highlight of a vacation.

And played, played, played.

Anthony and I will never forget our morning jogs through the red rock mountains, the hidden hieroglyphics that only Grandpa knew about, giant pies from Kanab, watching Lincoln play in the red sand, introducing my Grandparents to Jack-in-the-Box (Tony's pride and joy), the dinosaur tracks, hearing Link's new nickname from Grandpa ("Heya, Sport!) and realizing --yet again-- how amazing our little baby is. He didn't fuss the entire drive down and slept practically the whole time.

We are so lucky.

Thank you, Grandma and Grandpa (Great)!

Next up, our (10k walk of a) vacation through Las Vegas--the city of lights that literally mesmerized The Buddy.

Blue Eyes Heading for Blue Skies

2011-04-12T18:09:00.000-07:00

We are letting our hair loose (and our Binky's free--because apparently we are hooked) and off to warmer temperatures and brighter sun for this Spring break week.

Hallelujah. See you all real soon!!!

A Day in the Life

2011-04-12T17:48:00.000-07:00

Just because he is cute, sometimes we let Lincoln drive:

And he does such a great job, that we kiss him through the window:

And then he asks if he can hang out with his Grandpa Purcell for awhile:

And then he gets a little hungry, so before we can notice, he takes a little bite out of the table:

And that is a day in the life of Lincoln Anthony.

Oh, how we love him.

(Pictures courtesy of my beauty of a sister-in-law, Dawnie.)

Conflicted

2011-04-09T14:54:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been wondering what my next hair appointment result should be.

Boldly-blonde, and a shorter A-line

shoulder length with brown low-lights and several more styling options than the above picture

semi-short and curly sue style
or

bring out the lioness extensions again
or finally,

keep the current look going strong. (I do love this)

I'll admit that I have had my share of a plethora of hairstyles in the past few years--but what can I say? I don't mind a positive change every now and then. It keeps things interesting, you know?

Help a girl out?

Dear Anthony,

2011-04-08T16:48:00.000-07:00

Let's not ever forget this memory.

We were standing in the kitchen. It was late, too late probably, for how early our little sweetheart would be waking us up the next morning. The room was dim, lit only by the light above the stove top--and we stood under it, scraping the last spoonfuls of peanut butter from the jar and spreading it on graham crackers. Having watched American Idol earlier that evening, we were in a rock-n-roll dancing and singing mood. Bryan Adams, your new and old favorite, was singing through the speakers on your cell phone...and we were dancing. We were jumping, leaping, laughing. The peanut butter stuck to the roof of my mouth, but I still giggled uncontrollably as you attempted to plie across the kitchen floor--slipping on your socks. You asked me to dance, and in my white, baggy sweatpants and bare-feet-- we glided around the chairs, singing and humming the words to "Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman?".

So, amidst all of the chaos of life--I'll never forget that memory. I'll never forget that it was raining outside, and yet I felt warm, safe and loved. I'll never forget the smile on your handsome face and the way you'd whisper as you were singing so we wouldn't wake Lincoln. I'll never forget how beautiful you made me feel or how funny you are, or how much fun we have together. I'll never forget that peanut butter, graham crackers and a romantic dance in the middle of the kitchen floor can remind you, once again, how in love you are.

Most of all, I'll never forget that this is the happiest I have ever been--that I would not change a thing about our lives, our situations, our trials and learning experiences.

And this, baby, is one of the greatest realizations of my life.

I love you.

Abigail

The Hidden Light

2011-04-06T09:03:00.000-07:00

Life comes at you fast. One moment you are sailing along-minding your own business…and then, whammo!...you are blindsided by the latest brand of “you are not good enough because….” Or “life is too hard because…”

This time and in my case, the “get-me-down-feelings” had taken a round-house kick to the face and left me wounded right down to the core—when you feel it not just in your physical body, but in your heart and even in your soul. And this punch in the stomach didn’t find its way to my soul because the laundry was backed up, or bills needed to be paid or because I had a headache. The problem was at the root, not the surface. My physical façade was that the issue was outside of me, but every façade has a shelf life—and this one was dead done. It needed to escape from the corners and depths of inside of me. So on this particular day, I let it out, testing myself to see what the real issue was and where it had come from.

If you had seen me that day, you might have thought I was grumpy or tired. You might have considered that this “new Abby”—the one who has begun to better herself in every way possible—was over, expired and done trying. You might have thought, “Eh, well I knew it wouldn’t last.” I say that you might have thought all of this because I did. I was denying everything I was and had become.

I was getting to know my shadow, familiarizing myself with the darkness inside of me—the part of me that gets frustrated, rebellious and even scared. But familiarizing is different than succumbing to.

That night, I was laying in bed. The room was dark, quiet. My baby had been to sleep for a few hours already, and I could hear the steady drum of the humidifier in his room echoing through the baby monitor. Anthony was slowly drifting to sleep as well, and all I wanted to do was forget what I was worrying about, forget feeling, become numb and fall into deep, sleep. I couldn’t do it. Escaping reality is a lot harder than simply surrendering to Mr. Sandman.

So, at a whisper and with a quiver in my voice, I pleaded to the night, “Why is it so hard?”

The night didn’t answer, but my husband did. “Why is what so hard?”

“Life…everything…”

Anthony rolled over and faced me in the dark. The tip of his nose touched mine and though he couldn’t see it, I smiled. I could feel his Light and it was cheering me up already. He said, “Because if there wasn’t any negativity or hard experiences, we wouldn’t be able to appreciate how blessed we are. There is no way we could understand Truth.”

Instantly, a verse from the scriptures crept into my mind. I had read it only days before and it was stocking itself in my brain for this exact moment when I could finally understand the truth that it revealed:

“Therefore, that we should waste and wear out our lives in bringing to light all the hidden things of darkness, wherein we know them; and they are truly manifest from heaven.” (D&C 123:13)

Yeah, life comes at us fast—lightening speed fast, in fact. And sometimes, we feel like we are making some even greater mistake because we are recognizing darkness. The truth is that life was meant for us to see our shadow, or what we are not, so that we can become who we really are. We were meant to dig through the darkness, through the junk of our lives, to find the Light.

The hidden things of darkness will only fester and become worse---that is why we must uproot them and make them light.

Because if we stay strong and get through this,

then we can experience the joy of this:

(There's nothing better than ending a post with some cute baby pictures, right? :)
Have a fabulous day, everyone!

Purcell Pasttimes

2011-03-31T21:26:00.000-07:00

(A few things that we have been up to in the past couple of days)

Lincoln:

--Eating. Everything. Basically, I have to vacuum and sweep everyday in hopes that Link won't discover the world's most interesting piece of lint and make it his afternoon snack.

--Talking on the phone. He loves to answer my phone (most preferably when Daddy calls) to say an adorable "Hi" to "DaDa."

--Grinning big with a handsome set of five teeth! Oh yeah, and of course, with teeth comes the biting and Linky thinks it is particularly hilarious when he kisses/bites Daddy's nose. Mommy finds it pretty entertaining as well.

--Naked hugs. Whenever it is diaper change time, Link will find his way free and make a run for whoever is NOT going to put a diaper and clothes back on him. He will hug and kiss you as much as you like--just as long as he can continue being the "naked bum on the run."

--Dancing. I'm not sure who he got his fancy moves from, but as soon as any type of music starts playing--Lincoln will hold one arm in the air and bounce, bounce, bounce. It is hilarious and adorable and addicting. By the end of the song, the whole family is busting a move.

--Crawling all over, attempting to walk all over quite soon, and climbing up the stairs like it's nobodys business.

Anthony:

--Transforming lives with his new business. Tony is a Spiritually-based Life coach and he is on fire! I am so proud of all that he has built. He has worked his tail off setting up websites, blogs, splash pages and all of the other technical stuff that doesn't make any sense to me. Check him out here for an uplift, an inspirational thought or a life-changing experience...whatever you need. Trust me, you will not be disappointed.

--Training for a duathlon at the end of April. Basically, a lot of running and a whole lot of biking.

--Having more and more time with me and Lincoln! That is the beauty of owning your own business, folks--you also get to set up your own hours. It has been amazing knowing that if he chooses to, Tony can be there at Link's doctors appointments, go for a quick lunch with me or just take a nap with the buddy.

--Discovering that a Mac computer is his new best friend.

Abigail:

--Gaining inspiration for my book everyday! I have been greatly focusing on using my time to build myself Spiritually--and by doing so have received so much more insight on the direction of my book than ever before. It is freeing and so exciting.

--Learning that I am a better cook than I ever thought I could be! One of my New Year's Resolutions was to cook at least one new meal per week. I have succeeded and often done two or three more. It has kinda become a new hobby (I know, I'm just as shocked as you are).

--Met my fitness goal. 18% body fat, baby. One of the hardest, most emotional, draining, amazing and liberating experiences of my life. Realizing how powerful I am. Awesome.

--Seeing how easy life can be with a quick hair-do. Love it.

--Loving every minute with my little family; getting slobbery smooches from a buddy and looking at the most handsome man on the planet everyday.

(a huge thank you to my amazing sis-in-law, Dawnie for always being on the ball and taking pics)

We are all looking forward to a relaxing weekend with family, food (yay for freeeee day) and probably a million more things to discover that we love about Lincoln.

This is the life.

PS- my little brother, Elder Dietz, just had his first four baptisms in Mississippi this week. I am so proud of him! Read up on him, here.

Tomorrow, Tomorrow!

2011-03-29T08:57:00.000-07:00

I have often heard people say "I'll be happy when..."
I'll be happy when my hair grows longer. I'll be happy when it is the weekend. I'll be happy when my children are older. I'll be happy when I'm done with school. I'll be happy when....

A friend of mine calls these people "Weekend Warriors." They live for the weekend. They live for tomorrow, for a better tomorrow. They live for something other than what they are currently experiencing. Always. Basically, Weekend Warriors are never happy with today, with now.

Sadly, I often find myself identifying with a Weekend Warrior. Most especially, I found myself being this way when I was in college. I kept thinking that life would be perfection as soon as I earned my degree. I wouldn't have to worry about professors, papers, deadlines, waking up for class....and honestly, I thought that my life was being lived for someone else. I was letting myself believe that teachers, friends, roommates, peers, boyfriends and even family members were running my life and making it the lame-ness that I thought it was. I wasn't taking control of my life because I kept thinking that "I'll be happy when I'm done with school and my life will be mine again."

Some of you who have been reading my blog for a couple of years just might be rolling your eyes right now. Because you have probably read this "weekend warrior" attitude in my posts. Sorry about that, by the way :)

This is the truth. We don't have to look in the future for happiness. Yeah, it might make us happier when the weekend is here or when summer finally arrives....But we can also be happy NOW. We can be happy in today, in the present.

Recently I was talking to a friend in my neighborhood about the concept of the glass being "half-full" or "half-empty". In that conversation I discovered something really profound. If there is anything in the glass that we could look at as "half-full"--it is the reality that there is a Divine plan for us, that there is a Heavenly Father and that He has a hand in everything.

What else do we need to know?

Happiness is realizing that the glass is always going to be half-full...and that glass exists today, right now!

What is making YOU happy right now, in this very moment?

This is mine.

Chi-Chi

2011-03-29T08:32:00.000-07:00

Remember when we used to stay up "late" as kids, laying in our bunk-beds, talking about silly things like the boys we would marry someday? We would giggle the night away, hoping that Mom and Dad wouldn't hear. We were quite happy when we moved to our new house and got our own little apartment, of sorts, in the basement. Though we didn't share a room anymore, we still stayed up talking. Sometimes you would sit on my bed for hours. We would brush our teeth together, read and then give up on that and just laugh about the movie we had just seen and the ridiculously hilarious photo booth pictures we had snapped at the mall.

You were my best friend, my protector, my example.

And you still are.

Happy Birthday (on the 25th), Sister! I love you very much.

40 Weeks

2011-03-23T23:09:00.000-07:00

Nine months ago my sweetheart baby and best buddy entered our world.

For some reason, though it is not the one-year birthday, nine months feels like a milestone. Nine months+ was how long I carried Lincoln before he was born two days late. In many ways, those nine months felt like an eternity. There was a lot going on in my life, both good and bad. A degree to finish, the deaths of close family members, my brother leaving on his mission, a new calling at church...

In all of that time I could never have dreamed of the miracle that my life was about to experience with the birth of our first child. If I could have had even one tiny glimpse of the joy that Link would be while I was still pregnant---those nine months would have felt even longer and probably nearly unbearable.

I thank Heavenly Father every day for Lincoln's shining face that I get to kiss every morning, night and a million times more in between.

Oh thank heaven that I have gotten to spend the last nine months with this,

and not this...

(Oh boy)

Thanks for reading this blog and sharing in some of my joyful moments as Lincoln's mom.

Happy Nine Month Birthday, Linky-babe!

Bloom for the Gloom

2011-03-22T22:45:00.000-07:00

Around here the weather has been pretty stormy.

Today the wind is blowing, the rain is falling & looking very close to turning into snow. (Oh yep, there it goes)

Imagine my utter joy and surprise the other day when I noticed this bloom of beauty making its way toward the sky.

It started out with one blossom, and then only days later this yellow bouquet of sunshine has become the brightest "pick-me-up" on the block.

Despite the unpredictable sunlight, despite the grey sky, threatening wind and bitter raindrops-- these yellow, early bloomers are unafraid to bring their Light into the world. They are fighting. They are living their purpose. They are winning.

Because, do you want to know the truth of something I have learned very recently? The Light is ALWAYS stronger than the darkness. Even in the midst of a dark universe, these tiny petals of light are prevailing. They are conquering the cold ground that wants them to stay underneath...they are dancing in the breeze instead of letting it defeat them...they are ignoring the ugly weeds around them...they are showing the Shadow who is boss.

It makes me wonder why I so often let the darkness prevail in my life-- when what I know to be true is that my Light is stronger than any dark, gloomy, stupid, destroying lie or excuse could ever imagine.

If a tiny daffodil can hold its own in an atmosphere that is telling it to wait just a little longer-- I too can shine my Light on the world, let others shine their Light on me...and win the gloomy battle.

Where is your Light? Let it shine...because it will win, always.

Life is a Party

2011-03-18T16:02:00.000-07:00

Don't you just wish you could have as much joy in life...

as this little guy?

...Seeing pure entertainment in the simple things?

...Finding adventure behind every corner?

...And love yourself despite trials, roadblocks, or whatever comes?

Well, you can. We all can--because seeking and establishing joy is what this life is all about. Take it from someone who sees it firsthand every minute of every day.

"Let us relish life as we live it, find joy in the journey, and share our love with friends and family." -Thomas S. Monson

Have a happy, joyful, exciting and adventurous weekend, my friends.

A Day at the Park

2011-03-15T22:00:00.000-07:00

Lincoln had his first day at the park this past weekend.

He thought it was quite exhilarating.
(Even though his face doesn't necessarily prove it here...The camera isn't Link's favorite thing to see.)

There is nothing better than spending a relaxing evening with my boys.

Especially when Anthony releases all inhibitions and shows Lincoln the time of his life on the "big boy slide."

Okay, it was the baby slide...How could you tell? Ha ha.

Here's to our happy welcoming to Spring. (Snow, don't even think about it)

I Am

2011-03-15T21:39:00.000-07:00

Have you ever thought about the power of the words "I am"?
We often use them, that's for sure. "I am hungry," "I am confused," "I am unhappy", "I am excited". But do we really understand what it means to be able to say that "I am." Who are you? Where are you from and what makes you YOU? I have been pondering about the power in the identity of those two words and realized something great.

I am. I exist. I live. I breath. I am alive. I am me. I am a Spirit child of God.

Those are the realities. Whatever physical or temporary word we would put after "I am" are nothing but labels to try and describe who we really are. And if we realize who we really are, we begin to see that no negative or false belief could ever disguise the fact that we are Divine. In the moment we might be happy, sad, tired, angry...but the greatest discovery that we could ever know is that we are beings of Spirit and light-- just like our Heavenly Father, created in His image.

Sometimes I get too caught up in labeling myself. When it's a bad hair day, I believe the lie that "I am a bad hair day." When I feel frustrated, "I am a frustrated person." I try so hard to pinpoint who I am based on the emotion I am feeling, or the current circumstance that I am living. The truth though, is that out of the millions of identities that I could classify myself as-- the greatest part of me, the identity that lives beneath my physical body and despite how much money I have, the car I drive or whether the dishes are done or not...is the "I am" as a Spirit.

In the last few days I have been trying to focus solely on my Divine identity. Situations still came up-- situations that nearly tempted me into labeling myself as whatever was going on in the moment. These false labels wanted me to forget who I AM. However, once I realized that I was beginning to label myself as "I am the lady who wore sweats to the grocery store, forgot my wallet and now look like an idiot"-- I switched my thinking and remembered those two words only: I Am.

I AM!!!!!

To realize this, no--to remember this, because deep in our Spirit's we have always known it-- is a liberating experience that can be a part of every day life.

I am!...and so are you.

Wild Child, Worrying Momma

2011-03-11T17:25:00.000-08:00

In many ways, it is always somewhat unnerving to be a mother.

There is always someone that you have to be watching to make sure he doesn't take a big lick off the top of the Clorox can, or chasing after to see whether his hiding place is under the side table in the living room or underneath the bathroom cabinet.

In all actuality, a mother must always be on her toes.

And up until a few days ago, I thought my only time to relax and take a load off of worrying-- was when the babe was soundly sleeping.

Not so.

It was late in the morning. Anthony was scrambling up some eggs and I had just finished feeding little Linky-babe his typical morning "snack", before he went down for a couple more hours of sleep. After waking up peacefully in his crib, Link doesn't love going back down to finish his z's unless he is sleeping in Mom and Dad's bed. So we let him hang there until he is fully rested. When he does wake up for good, it is not quietly. He hates waking up (and who can blame him :)-- so his crying and grunting gives me plenty of time to run into my bedroom and soothe him awake before he even realizes the danger of being on our bed.

This particular morning-- it would seem that Lincoln had a calm awakening. Because even with my motherly ear cocked and ready to hear any peep from the little one...I didn't hear the trauma occurring only two rooms away until the screaming began.

You know the screaming that isn't just whiny screaming? It is true, scared, hurt and downright something is very, very wrong kind of screaming....

Well that is what Anthony and I heard. And it was horrible.

We ran into our bedroom and there he was...lying on the floor, having fallen off of the bed, helpless.

I cried, I balled, I punched myself on the inside, I hated myself as a mother, I wanted to arrest myself for being so stupid.

I cried longer than Lincoln did.

"He is fine," Anthony kept saying. "Our bed is so low. Look at him, he's smiling...Babe, settle down. Think about it, the velocity of him falling at that height would be like us falling one foot from the ground so really it just scared him..."

I didn't want to hear it. I didn't want to believe that I had actually left my 9-month-old wild, child crawling baby sleeping in such dangerous circumstances. What was I thinking?

For the rest of that day, I was completely on edge. Lincoln didn't leave my sight. And honestly, I think he got kinda sick of me.

Later that evening, I called my Mom. You see, I had fallen off of the bed at about Lincoln's age and broke my arm. I just knew that once she heard the news she'd freak out almost as much as me and demand to talk to Link to ensure he was okay.

She laughed. She knew he was okay. Instead, she asked if I was okay, how I was feeling and told me, in so many words, that I am a good mom and that making mistakes sometimes is okay. She assured me that motherhood is crazy, messy, out-of-control and wonderful. She told me that being so sad about the fall shows how much I love my baby-- and what could a mom do better than love her son?

My Mom and brother, Elder Dietz. A loving mother and her son.

I guess more than anything, this post is a thank you to my mom for being a great example of a wonderful mother -- and an even better helping-hand and crying-shoulder of a Grandmother.

Thanks, Mom. Lincoln and I, are both, forever grateful.

Cousin Ry-Ry

2011-03-08T08:13:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday, an old friend entered into Lincoln's life again.

He hasn't seen him for almost nine months. And he missed him greatly.

Baby Cousin, Ryan Scott Kelley was born Sunday, March 6, 2011. 7 lbs, 7 ounces. 20 inches long.

We are so happy for you, Joannie and Brady!

And suddenly, my little Lincoln seems a lot bigger than I thought he was.

But, as much of a "destroying angel" as he is-- He knows how to be gentle, quiet and calm around his new best bud.

The Proud Daddy

The Happy Mommy

And the Adorable Uncle

All in all, an exciting weekend.

Welcome, Ryan!

The Miracle of Lincoln

2011-03-05T13:53:00.000-08:00

Today I have been uplifted, like many days, by my sweet baby.

I love when I am the one crying, and he looks at me with such caring eyes, wondering what he can do to cheer me up...

when the only thing I really need is to hold him for awhile. And he knows that, so he stops chewing on the cell phone or stamping on the laptop & does what we can never get him to do--he cuddles with me.

(He falls asleep, but I don't mind)

Often I wonder how he knows when something is wrong. It is then I realize that he is only 8-months away from Heaven...and it all makes sense.

You know how when it seems like there is way too much to do, think about, remember and worry about?

There is a special energy about a child; a deeper force and power that emulates through their spirit. They see and experience this earth differently than we, as adults, do. They are spiritually conscious of the vast difference between light and darkness and they are naturally attracted to Light.

Lincoln's spirit is naturally grounded. Even as little as he is, I notice the connection he has with Heaven and earth--and I can see in his face a certain amount of confusion when a situation is sad, frightening or off-balance.

In most things, I think he understands the greater meaning more than I do.

Essentially, to a hold a child isn't just about the happiness you feel when their soft, cuddly arms are around you --It is about connecting once again to a higher, brighter, more aware Spirit. It is about reminding you again what you are missing out on by letting go of your power, as we often do.

I feel especially grateful to know that the first time I held Link in my arms-- Heavenly Father was trusting me with a gift...a gift that would constantly be reminding me of His Light and the power that He has and has given to us to share--to be Creators.

Creators of life, creators of our situations and creators of our happiness.

Have a happy weekend, friends. If you have a moment, listen to this song and remember the gratitude of a little child.

Personal Trainers

2011-03-01T21:49:00.000-08:00

So what is new with me?

Okay, so the topic of this post isn't really new news in my life---but it is new to the blogger world. I have never talked about the fact that Anthony and I have been going to a Personal Trainer every two weeks for the past four months because it seemed, well...slightly pretentious. Plus, it makes me feel completely vulnerable to admit it.

Still, I have learned that making yourself vulnerable emits power and allows that power to transform others. So here goes nothing.

I must admit that my previous opinions of "looking good" and "being skinny" were false and distorted. Ever since my teenage years, I had the incorrect belief that beauty had everything to do with being thin. If I was thin, it meant I was obviously eating as little as possible, which then of course meant I was healthy because skinny people are both healthy and happy...right? In other words, it was all about being skinny and eating as little as possible. The problem with this mindset though, was that I loved good food. So--in order to try and stay as thin as possible, I would often forgo a large meal for a candy bar or something sugary--therefore satisfying my sweet tooth whilst still consuming the least amount of calories as possible.

Along with this "diet"--which really was what I was doing all of the time...dieting...I would find myself at the gym three or four times a week. Still though, my goal was always to be getting skinner or losing weight. I would work out on the elliptical or treadmill only--and hardly ever lift weights because lifting weights meant that I would gain mass...and I definitely didn't want mass.

I wanted to be skinny. Because, in my mind--skinny meant being happy, healthy and attractive.

With all this being said, this is what I have learned in the past four months of personal study and implementation:
Being healthy isn't about being skinny.
When you use all of the tools to be truly healthy, being thin is just a bonus.
Nutritious food is delicious, and it doesn't feel like eating diet food, rabbit food or cardboard (something I truly believed once not long ago).
You can eat more food when you are consuming healthy wholesome foods.
A high protein diet is essential.
Lifting weights is fun.
Working out for hours everyday IS NOT necessary. 45 minutes max.
One free day a week, where eating as much food as you want is okay--and realizing just how crappy it makes you feel at the end of the day is even better.
Girls, like me, who once thought that being buff wasn't possible--are STRONG!

Here's the gist. I share all of this with you for many purposes. But, if you take just one thing away from this post, remember this--You are in control of your physical body. You can combat fast food temptations, false body images and incorrect diet solutions.

Here is proof. In the past four months--
I have lost 11 lbs
My body fat percentage went from 30.8% to 19.3%
My muscle weight went from 97 lbs to 104 lbs
My fat pounds went down from 43.3 lbs to 25 lbs

Like I said, posting all of this makes me feel vulnerable for a billion reasons. The truth is that my greatest accomplishment is the difference in attitude. I now yearn to be healthy. I yearn for energy. I yearn for new ways to feel amazingly healthy. I have a positive body image in myself because I am healthy.

I yearn for everyone I know to understand what I have learned...To love themselves & feel beautiful.

I owe so much more to my Trainer, Luanne Cobb--than just losing body fat percentage or learning how to lift weights while breathing correctly. She has literally helped me change my beliefs about a healthy body image.

And yes, she is brilliant and available. Like me, she yearns to change people's lives. And so, truly and honestly I am doing a little bit of free marketing for her because it's the least I can do.

Right now, you can sign up with her for uno dinero. Yep, $1.00 and then she is seriously one of the most inexpensive trainers you will find out there...because her payoff is personal transformation for you.

If you want to know more, email me. I'll hook you up. abby.purcell@hotmail.com

and now I am off to drink a protein shake--surprisingly delicious.

Un Anno Fa

2011-02-23T21:23:00.000-08:00

One hour ago I was feeding a cute baby sweet potatoes and decided to try it for myself. Gross.

One day ago I was getting caught up on my Hellcats drama (does anyone else watch this show?--I'll admit, I'm hooked). Lazy.

One week ago I was on my way to Zumba it up and burn some serious calories-- salsa style. Arriba.

One month ago I was getting ready to celebrate birthday number two-three. Scary.

One year ago, though, I had just barely landed in Paris, France. Awesome.

It's true, folks. This week marks the one year anniversary of our trip to Europa. We are feeling nostalgic, reminiscent and slightly blue.

Because, you see-- we absolutely loved Europe and frequently talk of going back there as soon as possible (preferably not when I am with child).

Suffice it to say, we'll be spending the next ten days saying things like, "One year ago we were riding a night train through Germany to Venice," or "Remember when a year ago today we tried real gelato for the first time?" or "La Policia!"

Plus, to add to our homesickness for Paris, Venice and Rome--my Aunt and Uncle recently received their LDS mission call to Rome, Italy. Our favorite place. Ever. Jealous. Majorly.

(A day in Rome when we missed the train)

We'll get through. Perhaps.

Ciao.

Destroying Angel

2011-02-22T19:17:00.000-08:00

The Destroying Angel. This was the nickname that Anthony was given by his Mother when he was Lincoln's age.

Apparently, Link has decided to follow in his Daddy's footsteps. I now know what my mother-in-law was talking about. Firsthand. Every day.

Who needs a gym pass? I have a mobile 8-month-old who makes a game out of racing me to the stairs, the bookshelf, the dvd case, the pantry, the cleaning supplies cabinet --among other places-- and destroys all in his path on the way there.

And don't let the fact that he is playing with toys in one of these pictures fool you---Usually he is quite uninterested in the things that are okay to play with.

All I really have to say is that I want my money back on all of the "child proof" items we have invested in to try and keep our little sweetheart safe.

Items like the outlet covers that I watched him slowly take out one afternoon.

Like the cabinet latches that can't be screwed in tight enough to keep out little Lincoln fingers.

Heck, I even had the nerve to think that a gate at the top of the stairs was built strong enough to keep out an infant. Not so-- Anthony and I have watched him several times pull on it long enough to pry it lose from the wall...one time even pulling it onto himself. Yeah, yikes is right.

Needless to say--the only child proofing that is going to keep our Destroying Angel from flying away are a sharp eye and quick feet.

The real and honest truth is that every mess is worth it. My little baby boy turns eight-months-old exactly tomorrow...

and I am going to cherish every moment. Because they fly by fast.

Especially those moments in places like Sacrament meeting at church--when Lincoln just can't take the silence and decides to squeak and squeal with joy at the top of his lungs.

We love you, Bubby.

Chubby Cheeks and Chocolate

2011-02-15T12:41:00.000-08:00

I have to admit that I'm one of those people who, when I want something fun to do, makes up things to "celebrate."

You know, like celebrating losing five pounds turns into going out for mexican food or something. Yeah, I get that it kind of defeats the purpose--but hey, I crave excitement.

As you could imagine, when a real holiday comes around--we tend to go a little crazy over here in the Purcell home. Since V-day was on a Monday this year, we basically turned the whole weekend before into an excuse for party-central.

I found myself saying & thinking things like, "Hey, it's Valentine's Day--what the heck?", as I'd pop another chocolate in my mouth or vouch for dinner out instead of making a meal at home.

So, one day of Valentine turned into three days of munching on delicious junk like this...

and loving, hugging and kissing on this...

And of course, we could never forget celebrating Kevin's birthday on Saturday. Linky loves his Uncle Kevin.

We love you, Kev. I can't even put up some of our inside jokes because no one would get them. Or think they are funny. That's why we get along so swimmingly.

Hope you all had a happy lovey day.

Back to giving chocolate the stink eye. Or at least pretending to, anyway.

Valentine's Dad

2011-02-14T15:35:00.000-08:00

Today's holiday is a double-whammy great day for me.

The first has to do with the basic chocolate-ness, which in and of itself is quite exciting.

The other--is a day to celebrate the birth of a guy who really bleeds red and not because he was born on Valentine's Day.

Yes, my Dad is a Ute fan--which by birth makes me a Ute fan too (and proud of it!). It creates only a slight bit of tension in our home since Tony roots for the "other" team.

But, as you can see--G.Pa is doing his job and showing Linky-babe who is boss.

I love you, Daddy. Thanks for being you.

And--I might be mistaken (I'm not), but I swear it was you that doorbell ditched us this morning.

You rock. Happy "Love Dad" Day.

Fancy Pants

2011-02-11T14:04:00.000-08:00

The other day I was watching "I Love Lucy"--a classic, of course-- and was inspired.

You see, Lucy and Ethel were in one of their typical shenanigans and needed to quickly head to the subway. On their way out the door, Ethel wanted to stop by her apartment and change her clothes. Lucy told her that it was too late & that she needed to go as she was.

To this, Ethel responded--"Ride the subway? In my blue jeans?!...Lucy, I have never worn blue jeans on a subway in my life and I'm not going to start today."

She then proceeds to change into a lovely dress, heals, hat and matching gloves & bag.

Say what?! Never ridden the subway while wearing blue jeans? As I was watching the rest of the episode, I began thinking of my latest outfits of choice. I was currently wearing sweatpants, a not-so-flattering t-shirt, no shoes or socks and the slightest stitch of makeup possible without scaring the mailman. I wasn't even wearing blue jeans around the house...

After wishing that I lived in the 1950's--I decided that I could bring even a little bit more style into my own life. I made a goal to dress up everyday, whether I had plans to go anywhere that day or not.

Now, "dressing up" by my standards is obviously slightly different than what Lucy and Ethel would wear. I promised myself that I would at the very least wear jeans and a nice blouse--but some days I often found myself getting into a (comfortable :) skirt or dress. I also made sure to really do my hair and makeup every morning.

I made this goal over two weeks ago and have kept it up to this day--currently sporting some yellow skinny jeans and a nice black top--and I have learned that dressing nice and making an effort isn't just about how it makes you feel physically. When it all came down to it, making myself presentable just for my sake helped me feel generally more productive, confident, energetic and happy.

And the most amazing discovery was that it made me more excited for the day when I knew that I was going to get up and both look good and feel good--surprise, surprise!

I guess it was easy to talk myself into the idea that being a stay-at-home momma meant something when it came to my daily attire. It's not like I have "let myself go", as they say--but I was always afraid of getting spit up, pooped, or peed on and ruining my outfits. So why try?

I'll tell you why. Because it makes a difference inside of you. My energy, I've found, is highly sensitive to a lazy atmosphere--and sweatpants can make one become just as lazy as sitting on the couch all day long could.

So, here's to starting the day out right--from the inside-out.
And who knows?...Maybe I'll transition to the matching hat and gloves someday. Maybe.

Have a Happy Love Day this weekend!
This is a picture of mine & Anthony's first Valentine's Day together. Babies, right?

xoxo

Birthday Refresher

2011-02-09T12:03:00.000-08:00

My birthday went fantastic this year.

I got to celebrate they way I always want to--with food, family, cookies, cake, good company...and did I mention food?

Lately I have been doing so good eating healthy & working out. So, naturally, all I really wanted for my birthday was a dinner at Texas Roadhouse, dessert at Smart Cookie and a few other favorite meals of choice. I ended up getting some awesome presents, too.

So--basically it wasn't too bad turning 23. (ha ha ha)

The best was being able to spend time with my boys. Saturday birthday's are the greatest---sleeping in, lounging around and letting Anthony pick up some of the chores. Heaven.

Lincoln seemed quite perturbed that Mommy was getting all the attention this weekend--and made sure we knew it by bringing out his classic attitude face every once and awhile. He has been doing this face for awhile now, but we just couldn't seem to get it a picture of it until this day (Thanks to Kevin and Dawnie!) Who knew attitude could be so adorable?

Thanks to everyone who made the effort to make me feel special.

I love you all, even more than I love my DP.

and apparently that is saying something....

One Year Older BUT Wiser, too

2011-02-04T13:26:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is my 23rd birthday. Holy cow.
For some reason, this number makes me feel old...like really old.

Maybe it's because this is my first year as a mom--but boy oh boy. This birthday means that I have been graduated from high school five years. It means that I can really never shop at forever 21 again. It means that I'm a hop, skip and jump away from being a quarter-century. It means that I can't really look at a 30-year-old and think how old they are anymore. It means that kids in my neighborhood are beginning to think I'm the old one. It means that it's a good thing that what I used to consider Mom jeans are back in style now. It means that I think I found a white hair on my head today. It means that "Your Mom" jokes are becoming less and less appreciated. It means that I have to start pretending that it's the baby who is watching the Disney channel, not me. It means that I have wasted two years of not buying alcohol and five of not buying dry ice when I could have--not that I wanted to. It means that I'm the same age as my mother was when she had me. It means that I have to grow up and start liking green beans and other vegetables (no!). It means that I am not only no longer a teenager...but neither is my younger brother! It means that I have got less time to fulfill my dreams.

And, it means that I have the rest of my wonderful life ahead of me--to take on the world and show my son that dreams do come true.

This was me 22 years ago on my First birthday. Yeah, you see a cast on that arm and heck yeah you definitely see that awesome telephone in the background.

And, if you look close enough--you just might see a hint of little Lincoln in those baby blue eyes.

And the sweetheart in that picture right there is all I need for a happy, happy birthday.

A Power High

2011-02-01T22:54:00.000-08:00

Let me tell you all something awesome. This week has been, as you might have guessed, a week of ups and downs. The reality is that when you are doing good, feeling strong and spiritual and just plain loving life...the adversary would do anything to make you feel like junk.

For awhile last week, I felt like junk. But Saturday....oh, Saturday was one of the highest high-points of all for me.

This is why.

Yeah. Homer Simpson. This is the truth: In the past, when I have tried to run...I look like that.

I hate running. I hate everything about it. I hate the side-aches, the sweating, the red face-ness and the general fact that every time I attempt to run even a mile, I end up feeling like I'm going to faint and fall onto my face right there on the spot. Pretty lame. That's what running has been for me up until this last week.

Here's what happened. I owe it all to my sweet husband, Anthony . You see, he challenged me to conquer my body. He is challenging a lot of people to do that--helping them realize that when you conquer your body, you can conquer not only the physical plane, but the mental and spiritual dimensions of your life as well.

When it comes to exercising, especially running--which if you haven't figured it out yet, was the bane of my existence-- I'm the kind of girl who has to see it to believe it.

So, I gave it the old college try. Saturday morning I woke up and headed to the gym. I told Anthony I was going to try to run the entire time that I spend on my usual cardio workout. Twenty minutes. Yikes, I have never done such a thing. Run for twenty minutes straight...was I serious?

Heck yes, I was.

So I began. I got to about three minutes and I wanted to kill myself. But, I decided that I could probably make it to four minutes. When that came, I pushed myself to do five, then six, seven, eight...

The side-ache crept up around minute 13, and everything inside me was finding every reason to give up. The side-ache, the cramp in my left leg, my sudden need for water, the fact that I could be cuddling in bed with my boys, the tv shows ready for me to watch on the dvr...even the laundry. Yeah, I was being tempted by housework. It was bad...and yet I knew that I needed to make a choice.

I needed to decide if I was going to listen to all the negative lies and excuses circulating throughout my mind...or not. It was then that I realized the power that had gotten me this far already. 14 minutes ago I would have never dreamed of running more than 10 minutes straight. I had made it this far. And there were only six minutes to go.

Easy-peezy.

Well, I ran 12 more minutes..Straight, no breaks walking, no slowing down--in fact, I actually increased my speed around minute twenty.

I conquered my body.

The best part about this story is that the "conquering" didn't end after minute 26 of running. My hubby was right...after defying all the odds when it came to the physical side of life--I was then able to acquire ultimate fulfillment on the mental and spiritual planes. In all honesty, these experiences would not have happened if I had not defeated my physical body and taken over my own power earlier that day.

This day at the gym made me think...How much do we discount ourselves, our potential, our Power? I had never imagined myself running 26 minutes straight. So, what else don't I see myself doing that which I truly can do, what I must do?

I don't know the answer to this question. But, I'm going to find out.

Perhaps I don't see myself running ultra-marathons, swimming the seven seas or even jumping out of a plane and going sky-diving (a real, true fear of mine)...but whatever I am capable of, whatever lies within the reach of my potential--I'm going to try my very hardest to find it.

Because that runner's high felt good.

Want to experience some of this? visit Anthony's 6@646 Challenge website. You won't be disappointed.

Oh, and to thank you for reading, for your viewing pleasure--here's a little somethin' somethin' back from when Anthony and I were still dating.

Conquer your body. (Looking good.... :)

Sitting, Waiting, Wishing

2011-01-28T09:51:00.000-08:00

What are the going on's in the Purcell home this fine Friday?

Oh you know, just daydreaming of spring and wishing we could get outside and roll around on the grass.

Lincoln is on a mission. He is always on a mission--to where? Anthony and I may never know. But he certainly has places to go and people to meet.

He's ready for the snow to melt so he can crawl around the neighborhood.

And Mom is yearning to go walking with him in the stroller, do some gardening, have dinner-picnics in the front yard and wear capris again.

Happy Friday, everyone. Thanks for the love this week.

Above All Things

2011-01-26T13:06:00.000-08:00

Isn't life amazing?...

Yeah. That is the first thing I have to say after my complete breakdown of a post from yesterday. Truly, I am so grateful for days when I am forced to release the emotions from my system and just plain figure everything out. How fake life would become if we bottled everything inside--hoping that no one would see who we really are and what we are really feeling. From experience, I'm telling you that being honest about your emotions is good for you, it's healthy and it is part of life.

So with that being said, I would like to share two things that I am completely sure of:

1. "He that ascended up on high, as also he descended below all things, in that he comprehended all things, that he might be in all and through all things, the light of truth." (D&C 88:6)

In other words, my basket case-like, blubbering, whinny, emotional convulsion of sorts was descending below all things. Literally. In all honesty, it was actually kind of pathetic if you could see it in person. Still though, I'm not going to discount the way I felt or the problems that were important to me. I have learned that it is okay for me to feel what I feel. The important thing, in the end, is to realize that we must ascend again (and we can--everyone can, from anything!) We must take our temporary negative thoughts and beliefs--and become a light of truth. As I mentioned yesterday, I have been through a lot, seen a lot of darkness and felt dead both spiritually and temporally. But most importantly and even greater--is that I have seen the light, experienced happiness, joy, love, positive energy and healing. Because I have been both down and up--I can comprehend all things and realize that truth lives in the light.

2. We're all in this together.
Now you have that High School Musical song stuck in your head. Sorry...But it's true. I seriously did not expect the overwhelmingly amazing amount of texts, phone calls, emails, facebook messages and comments I got from people just saying things like--"Hey, I know what you're going through", You're amazing, We love you, You can do it, We are here for you..."
Really... It was Awesome! And it made me realize that that is why we are honest about our emotions, good or bad--because then we can get help, assistance, love, guidance and advice from those who care about us. When I'm down--you can relate and be there...and I can do the same for you! That's what life is all about right? Why should I bottle all that negative energy inside, when there are literal lifesavers out there--people like me!--that have a husband working a lot too, or know some things that sooth a sleepless baby, or are just plain listening.

The beauty in life is that we have power. Power to choose light over dark, positive versus negative beliefs and power to turn a dismal situation into a learning experience, a day of growth, an outbreak of opportunity.

When it all comes down to it, I am definitely blessed. And right now, that is enough.

I'm not saying that all of my problems have been solved. It's going to take time--and that's okay. The difference between today and yesterday is attitude--my attitude and choice to stand in my power.

So how do I stand in my power when Linky-babe is screaming at the top of his lungs and refusing to sleep, when Anthony only leaves the office bedroom for the toilet or a snack, when I have writers block, when the dang-dumb bills are due, or when there just isn't enough DP (that's Dr. Pepper :) around?

I listen.
I remain still...if even for a moment.

I look in the mirror and say aloud, "I am a powerful Creator" or "Life is full of abundance" or "I am a Divine Daughter of God" or "I am calm" or "Despite my bad hair day...I am beautiful" (okay, scratch the first part of that last one).

I ignore negative whisperings...and embrace positive energy from above.

I breath deeply, figure out where the negativity is coming from, recognize it--and learn from it.
(And yes, I really do these things..I'm serious. And they work.)

Yeah, and it is as hard as heck to do it. Especially when all odds are against me. But it's worth it.

How are you standing in your power today? Inspire me...