Silly Shephards

It's a BOY!!

2009-07-08T07:31:00.003-07:00

Yes, it's true. We will be having another cute little baby boy. I am thrilled. We have 2 girls & 1 boy. Another boy just seems to make everything even. The name we have picked out so far is Treyson Blake Shephard. That should stick until I change my mind! HA!

Cameron, who is now 11, was the cutest little boy ever. I posted a picture of him here when he was 4 yrs old. Isn't he cute?! (All his youger pictures I'd have to scan & I haven't gotten that down yet.) Anyway, Cameron had cute curly hair & was just adorable. When he started talking, he had a little raspy voice. I just loved & adored him so much - I still do! He's a good boy. If this little boy turns out to be anything like Cameron was, I'd be overjoyed. But, honestly, I will be very happy with how ever he comes.

So, I am now 22 week along. Over 1/2 way! And, I still get sick...... It's disappointing actually. I am not throwing up anymore, but I still get the queazy, yuck feeling every once in a while. Luckily it isn't every day, but it's enough to make me just get MAD! Those who have been pregnant & very sick know exactly what I'm talking about. Most times I am very good at disguising how I feel & just go along with the flow. But, as soon as I am alone, I get weird. :) Not sure if that's a good way to describe it, but yeah......weird is about right. 5 months of feeling sick really takes a toll on you! Sometimes I cry. Sometimes I hide myself in my bedroom & lay on the bed & look at the ceiling & pray. I can feel the baby moving inside me & know all of this will be worth it someday. It doesn't seem to matter what I eat or how often, I still will get the weird, sick feelings. If you're reading this & worrying about me, PLEASE DON'T! I'm really fine. I knew when I got pregnant that it would be this way. And I'm accepting it, just not really enjoying the yuck parts. But.......THIS IS THE LAST TIME I WILL BE DOING THIS!!! I am done with kids. 4 is a good number. And I'm just too old to do this again. I'm turning 39 this month. I'll be 57 when this baby graduates from high school!!!

Well, enough for now. I'll be back! :)

Sorry everyone!

2009-06-19T13:09:00.004-07:00

Hopefully my last post explains my absence. I am in survival pregnancy mode right now. Unfortunately, blogging is last on my list. I'm extremely tired! But, I will be back very soon!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I find out if I'm having a boy or girl next week & will post then!!! YEAH!!! :)

It's time to tell the world!

2009-03-28T08:42:00.003-07:00

Well, I guess my blog is the best place of all to let the news out. :) We just told our kids & today it's time to tell the world!!

I am pregnant with baby #4!!

I'm about 2 months or so along & starting to feel the icky stuff, so I figured I better tell everyone before they begin to wonder. (ha!) I am thrilled & disgusted about it all in one. We always wanted 4 kids so this is good! However, if there's anything in the world that I don't like......it's being pregnant!! I can honestly say I don't like anything about it except the outcome. I'm one of those kinds that just feels "blugh" the whole time. It's kinda like having food poisoning for 9 months. :) :) It took Jeff a while to talk me into this...but I'm happy about it. Really! (I'm trying to convince myself here!) To build myself up for this, I though I'd make a list of things I enjoy about being pregnant.

1. Gaining tons of weight is sooooo much fun!
2. I can't wait for people to do a double take of me trying to decide if I've gained a few pounds, wondering if my clothes shrunk in the wash or if I'm pregnant.
3. Buying bigger bras is a major JOY!
4. Going to the bathroom 20 times a day is always very convenient.
5. Smelling meat cooking makes my stomach dance!
6. Having to spill my guts in the most inconvenient times is the best feeling ever!
7. Falling asleep at 8:00 at night is great for my social network!
8. Having the sudden feeling you need a ________ to eat RIGHT NOW actually is quite cool!
9. Mood swings - need I say more?

I know what I'm in for & I still chose to do this!! That's because I know how very precious the outcome will be & that to me - is VERY worth the 9 months of pure bliss!

So, no laughing at my big behind or coveting my newly purchased tents! I am trying my best to be so EXCITED about this all & gosh darn it, I AM!!!!

A fun day at the park with Bren!!

2009-03-01T19:39:00.006-07:00

Riding the carousel!!
Brianna feeding the duckies! We spent a whole hour doing this! This was her favorite thing to do!

Brianna & I waiting for the train to arrive! 20 minutes seemed like a LONG time for a 4 yr old!!

The train arrived & we were on our way!! See ya later!!!

I realized a few weeks ago that I only have 2 months left to spend one-on-one with my little girl! In 2 months school is out which means chaos with everyone home! Then she starts kindergarten in August. My little girl isn't little anymore! I already miss her & she isn't gone yet!! So, I decided that she & I needed a "special" day where it's just she & I hangin' out doing fun stuff. Every Friday we are going on an OUTING! :) This week we went to Freestone Park where they have a fun train ride, ducks & carousel. We packed a fun lunch & lots of bread & we were on our way! I've highlited some of the fun stuff!

Brianna is my last child & will be turning 5 in a few month. My baby is 5!! She has been an absolute JOY! She is so much fun & has a personality that everyone seems to love! She is the best little dancer you ever did see! I'll have to post a video sometime. I am so grateful to have this little girl & couldn't imagine my life without her.

We're gettin' the Elephant off our back!

2009-02-26T08:37:00.008-07:00

Jeff & I are doing something with our finances/debt that has been AMAZING!! It has helped us feel a little bit of peace with our money. And, since there are soooo many people in the world today who are struggling financially, I thought I'd share it on my blog.

Have any of you heard of Dave Ramsey? We bought his book called "Total Money Makeover". I originally only bought it because it was on sale & I thought it would be interesting. Truly, I thought I knew would it would take to fix our financial situation. However, this book is eye-opening! I couldn't put it down. And, it is very easy. It's all about going back to the basics & not using credit cards to pay for everything!

Here's the basics of how it works:
1. You need to get a $1,000 emergency fund in cash. Keep the cash in a safe place in your home - NOT in the bank. This money is for you to have a back-up for emergencies & not to rely on any credit cards in this program.

2. Make a budget of exactly where your money goes each month. This has to be down to the penny. Then, you make envelopes at the beginning of each month & put cash in each envelope for that amount. When it's gone, it's gone - no dipping from extras anywhere! It's amazing how much we spend on stuff that's really not needed!!

3. Make a list of all your debt starting with the smallest first. You start to pay off the smallest debt first. Not the biggest interest rate, the SMALLEST debt. There is a good reason for this! People are more likely to stick with a program if they can see results! :) Chances are that your smallest interest rate is also you biggest debt & It may seem like you're never making any progress of if you start on that one first. Stick with smallest to largest. It works!!

4. Just by paying for everything in cash, you will be amazed at how much money you have at the end of the month to put towards debt!

The plan is very simple & easy! It's just a matter of doing it & being ready for it. You may have to give up going out to eat or buying fancy clothes. For me, it's all about having peace of mind.

We have a LONG way to go....but I feel much better knowing that I have a plan. I'll keep you posted on how it's going!!

Check out Dave Ramsey's website. I've attached a link. And no, I'm not getting any kick-backs from promoting him. LOL!! It's just been a great help for us & I'm all about sharing what works!!

100 pink roses for Valentines Day!

2009-02-14T18:27:00.004-07:00

He did it!

My husband actually bought me 100 pink roses for Valentines Day!

Isn't that just sweet? Since several people know our financial situation & know that buying 100 roses is NOT in our budget, rest assured that he got them for a VERY good deal. :)

Since it is Valentines day, & my husband totally scored, I thought it might be appropriate for me to tell you all the wonderful things I love about him.

Here goes:

1. He is the "fun" dad. I'm the "stick with the schedule" person & he's all FUN!!

2. He is smart as a whip. His mind amazes me. His brain functions a step above most.

3. When I am sick, he is THE BEST nurse. He takes care of the house, the kids & gets me anything I need. It's almost fun to be sick because he treats me like a queen. :) I said ALMOST.

4. He is very service oriented. He LOVES to mow peoples lawn without them nowing. He's the first to help someone move into their house. He's always willing to help at the drop of a hat.

5. He's overcome a great deal in his life & honestly, I'm not sure most would come out as fair as he did with what he had to face. I'm amazed at his strength.

6. He genuinely loves his kids & has a strong desire to be a great Father.

7. Jeff loves me for me. He doesn't criticize, give tips - he just let's me be my true self.

8. Jeff trusts me 100%! I never need to explain anything.

9. Jeff loves to surprise me! He'll do anything to try to surprise me.

10. He's a great on the grill!! Salmon is his specialty.

11. He's pretty dang cute! :)
12. He's the best travel companion. He drives, makes the schedule & does it all!

I just sit & enjoy the ride. Love it!!

13. He's the best with directions. It's easier to call him then to go to mapquest.

14. He's a baby whisperer. He has a secret way of getting babies to sleep. It's magic!

15. He does a great elephant impersonation.

16. When he REALLY wants to do something, nothing stands in his way. He'll go without sleep for days until it's accomplished. This is a wonderful & terrible thing about him. HA!

17. Jeff is a thinker. His mind holds a lot & I can always tell when he's pondering something new.

18. The best gift I ever received was the day he cleaned the entire house & gave me the day off!! LOVED IT!! Don't know too many husbands who are willing to do that. :)

19. He is Mckenna's 100% supporter in Volleyball. He hasn't missed a practice, a game or a tournament. She's pretty lucky to have such a dedicated dad.

20. Beging married to Jeff has been like a rollercoaster - lots of ups & downs, but a great adventure!! :)

I love you honey!!

Blender pancakes & coconut syrup

2009-02-10T13:55:00.005-07:00

I've had requests for my multi-grain blender pancakes & my cherry & coconut syrup. I decided it would be best to post them here. They're healthy, easy & very cheap. Great if you're on a budget. ENJOY!

Whole grain Blender Pancakes
1 cup whole grain soft white wheat kernels. (Or, I use a combination of pearled barley, kamut, spelt, brown rice, oat groats & whatever I have in my food storage.)
1 1/2 cups water
1/4 cup nonfat dry milk (I use tofu milk)
1 egg
2 Tbl canola oil
1 Tbl honey
1/4-1/2 tsp salt
1 Tbl Rumfords baking powder (MUST be Rumfords!)

In blender, mix water, grains, & dry milk on high for 3 minutes. Add egg, oil, honey & salt. Blend for 20 seconds. Add baking powder & pulse 3 times. Mixture will foam up & get very light. Cook immediately on a hot griddle.

Variations:
1) Buttermilk pancakes - use buttermilk in place of the water & omit the nonfat dry milk. Add in 2 heaping tsp of cornmeal & 1/4 tsp baking soda.
2) Fruit-filled pancakes - Prepare pancakes as directed. Pour onto hot griddle & top with blueberries, sliced bananas, strawberries or other fruit.
3) Apple buttermilk pancakes - Use Buttermilk recipe & fold in 1/2 cup finely grated apples.

Cherry Syrup
1/2 cup water
2 Tbls cornstarch or Ultra Gel
1 12-oz can frozen unsweetened cherry-apple Dole juice

Using a wire whisk, stir cornstarch into water in medium pan. Add juice concentrate. Bring to boil & stir until thickened, 1-2 minutes.

Variations:
Use any unsweetened juice. We like strawberry-kiwi, peach, grape & raspberry.

Coconut Syrup
16 oz can coconut milk
1 tsp vanilla
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup sugar or fructose
1/2 cup water
3 Tlbs Ultra Gel (If using cornstarch, use 2 Tbl & combine with water first to dissolve & then add remaining ingredients.)

Mix all ingredients together adding the ultra gel little by little. (keeps it from clumping) Bring to boil & boil for 1-2 minutes until thickened.

What's this weight thing about anyway?

2009-02-10T12:26:00.006-07:00

So, as most of you know - my weight fluctuates A LOT! I've been at all kinds of weight in my life. I'm currently "okay" with where I'm at, but would LOVE to be a much healthier weight. If I lost 25 lbs I think my body would feel & function better. I am a pretty healthy eater most of the time. I don't cook with sugar, white flour, or yucky additives. It's not even in my house. I also don't eat large portions. However, I am an emotional eater. Yes, that's me! When something is bothering me - it seems like a big Dr. Pepper & chocolate cures all. (Wouldn't it be nice if it really did?)

Is there anyone out there who has successfully conquered the emotional eater demon? I'm a pretty self-disciplied person & can accomplish whatever I put my mind to, EXCEPT for this eating thing. It kinda bugs me that I can't seem to get this down! I mean, what the heck?!?!

I've heard that I should try to replace my emotional feelings with something other then food. Like what?........knitting??!?! I had a friend who told me she started exercising when she felt the strange eating thing comin' on. Well, that may work great for her, however; sorry to say - but that really isn't likely to happen with me. Exercise is more like a punishment then a replacement for something I enjoy. Don't get me wrong - I still exercise, but I don't enjoy it. I do it because It's good for me. :) (Kinda like an enema. It's good for you, but does anyone really enjoy it?!?!)

Maybe I should just stop stressing? Easier said then done, but let's just humor this topic. Say all my stress was completley gone. Just zapped away!! (LOVELY!!) Unfortunately, emotional eating isn't just about stress. It's so much MORE!! I eat when I'm happy! I eat when I'm excited. I eat when I think I did something really well & need to be congratulated. I eat because it's Friday & party time! Are you gettin' the idea here?!?!? :) Food is my friend! I celebrate with food. In-N-Out Burger and I are great friends.

Truly, I am okay with me the way I am. I have a good self-esteem. I'm not slowed down in any way because of my current weight. Some days I just think - why worry? But, I ain't gettin' any younger if you know what I mean. I'm 38 & living a healthy life at ALL ages is pretty important to me. I should really figure it all out right NOW. Don't ya think?

I know I can lose the weight, but I am not confident that I can KEEP it off. :) So, why go through the effort to lose it in the first place? Oy....all these crazy things that go through my head.

Yeah, this is just a ramble. Thanks for reading. :) If you have any insight, send it my way.

Until my next rambling session... Over & out.

25 random things about ME!

2009-02-08T16:40:00.000-07:00

25 Random Things About Me

1. I once ran over myself while driving my own car. (Think about that for a few minutes - is it possible?) Yeah, it's a long story. Ask me about it next time you see me.
2. I was dared to drink a "concoction" during a chemistry lab in high school. I made $20 bucks & was the sickest I have ever been. I ran out of the room & all the way home immediately afterwards. The teacher never knew I was gone! ha.
3. My heaviest weight was 260 lbs. (oy...why am I typing this?!? Because I am REAL!!!)
4. I have 2 personalities. :) One part of me loves to stay home & do absolutely nothing when I get a chance. The other part of me really wants to go out, have fun & laugh until it hurts.
5. I was baptized in a dirty, disgusting muddy pond when I was 8 yrs old. I did it because the pond was in the backyard of a "cute" boyfriends house. Oh, the things you'll do when you're in love. :)
6. I see dead people!!!!!!!! (Okay, my dad's a mortician - calm down.)
7. I once made spaghetti sauce using El Pato sauce. :) (Hey, the side of the can says tomato sauce - go read it!)
8. I went to a company party a few years back & they were serving cute little squares of jelly in different colors. I downed several of them & had a great ol' time at that party!!! I found out later what they really were & why I was having so much fun! (If you don't know what they really are, you're as nieve as I am!!!)
9. I enjoy finding out who people "really" are deep down inside instead of what they want you to think they are.
10. I wish more blogs would tell us more of their life then just the perfect parts. We know your life reallys isn't that way ALL the time. Right?! You're all making me feel very guilty. :)
11. I'm eating eating a bowl of cooked beats with a splash of vinegar & oil as we speak. Yum!
12. My biggest weakness is hostess donuts that come in chocolate, plain & powdered sugar. You know what I'm talking about. :) Those & a big class of 2% milk. This is my 1st choice on junk out night at our house. (Although, I have to admit, I can't remember the last time I ate them. Probably a good thing. See #3.)
13. I won several writing awards in High School. I've always secretly wanted to write a book or short story. I'm just waiting until something "brilliant" pops into my head.
14. Some of the best times I've had were hanging out with my friends that are boys. :) (No, not boyfriends, just friends who happen to be of the male version.)
15. If I could change one thing about the world it would be that everyone would stop judging others & just accept people for who they are. Leave the judging to God.
16. If I could change something about myself it would be to be a better friend to my friends. I get too caught up in life & don't keep in contact with them as well as I should. Hello all my friends out there!
17. The highlite of my whole year is when I get together with my 8 sisters & mother for Girl's Weekend! We hang out for 2 days in a hotel - NO KIDS! - & talk, play games, eat & have fun! Nothing better the those 2 days. It reminds me how lucky I am to have them!! I will cancel anything to be there!
18. I love to read books but NEVER do. Truly, I get so involved that my whole life falls apart. It takes me days to get caught up. I just don't even go there. :)
19. I had a very special friend who was struck by lighting & died when I was 17 yrs old. I truly believe she is up in heaven & is watching over me now. I know that she sees everything I do! It helps me make better choices in life. It's been 20 years & I still miss her.
20. When I was 9 yrs old, I was called into the police station & questioned for stealing my neighbors 3 green marbles. (Hey, I grew up in a small town - think of Mayberry!) The marbles were later found under my neighbors couch & I was released. Shew!!!
21. My dad once told me I could sell anything & dared me to sell a smooshed banana. He said he'd give me double of what I sold it for. I sold it to my 6th grade teacher for $2. I told her I forgot my lunch money & my parents could only afford this smooshed banana. I got $4 bucks out of the deal!!!
22. My nickname my entire life up until 20 yrs old was Frog. My brother gave it to me when I was little because of my long legs, long tongue, green swimsuit & flippers. It stuck. People from college to this day still don't know my real name. It was so bad that in the choir concert flyer it listed my name as Frog. I've thought of listing my middle as "Frog" in facebook so people would actually know it was me!! :)
23. I like you for you. No need to hide your flaws. Let 'um all out & just be YOU!!
24. I believe that hardest part of my life is yet to come. God is only strengthening me for what lies ahead - whatever that may be!
25. Well, after reading the above I think I've found my topic for my book! :)

My crazy, wild hair!!

2009-02-06T12:40:00.001-07:00

I had a conversation wtih a friend recently. She was asking about my hair & how I got it to be so "full". I then said back to her - "You mean "flat". And she repeated - No, I mean "FULL". I laughed!!! I explained to her that I worked very hard ever day to get it to be flat & not so crazy. She was in disbelief. Since I refuse to actually go out in public with my wild & crazy hair, I thought it would be appropriate for me to take a picture of my wild mane as proof! :)

The before was taken after I let my hair dry. It has lots of crazy waves that don't all like to wave in the same direction. The next one was taken 30 minutes later after I straightened it & tried to make it presentable.

Don't you just love these self-portraits that make your forehead look gigantumous (a new word I just made up) & cuts the top of your head off??!?!

Time to get with the program!

2009-01-06T17:07:00.000-07:00

It's been well over a year since I've posted anything on here. I can't tell you how many people have told me I need to update my blog!! :) So, here goes. This may be a long one - if you read all the way to the end there's a prize!

The truth is...
I've come on here probably 20-25 different times & ended up leaving the computer in tears. 2008 was not a good year for us. Each time I sat down to write it brought up too much emotion & I just couldn't do it. And honestly, at that time I didn't want the world to know what was going on with the Shephards. Our life was no longer silly as our blog title says - it was just plain HARD! I lived day by day. Sometimes hour by hour. And yes, there were days when I was suriving minute by minute. Nobody really knew my struggles but my one sister. (who I am so grateful for) I have always been very good at keeping a happy face despite what's going on in my life.

So, why did I choose to write all this now? Well, I think I'm in a better place. I've learned from the past year & actually, I'm ready to tell my story. I've learned that there's lots of people who struggle & have the same family issues I do. If my story can help someone else out - YEAH! I personally believe everyone has their own struggles. We all just hide it & cope in our own ways. If we all came together - it would make life so much eaiser. So, here goes! Fasten your seatbelts. This may get a little bumpy.

If you notice my last post was about Jeff & that he had passed one of his exams to get into the Police Academy. He had taken over 6 different tests & passed them all with flying colors! He only had one more test to take. We knew that if Jeff were to get into the Police Academy we'd have to sell his Vending business. He had one last test to take & we felt good about it. It was a juggle because our business had to sell in order for Jeff to get into the Academy. We were so excited to have found a buyer for our business & everything was lining up. So, we sold the business & prepared for Jeff to go into the Academy. The last test was the Stress test. Imagine our big disappointment when the test came back & he did not pass. As a matter of fact, they said his stress levels were off the charts & they didn't feel it was good for him to be in the Academy at this time. They told him to reapply in 2 years.

We were devastated. Jeff was very disappointed & he describes those days as being very dark. Being a police officer has always been his dream. I felt bad for him. I didn't know what else to do but try to keep it all together. So, except for my piano lessons, we were unemployed. Jeff applied for jobs here & there. But, it's hard because Jeff does not have a degree or skill. He's done odd jobs here & there & Vending is what he'd done for the past 8 years. The jobs he qualified for paid very little & wouldn't even cover our bills. We lived off credit cards & my small piano lesson income.

The story gets a little more complicated. My husband had purchased several peices of land the previous year as an investment. He thought he could sell them later on, make some money & pay off the debt. With the economy the way it is - the land was not sellable. We were actually upside down. We owed more then what the land was worth. We were paying THOUSANDS of dollars a month on this land. We still are. :( Our debt was out of control.

Our marriage wasn't doing well. Actually, Jeff & I have been in counseling for several years off & on. So, when the financial situation happened - things became worse. The problems we had previously were now intensified. And, unfortunately, our children were being affected. I love my husband, but during this time he wasn't making some very good decisions. And I have to admit I was not a very good at helping him feel good about the situation. I did a lot of blaming. Jeff & I ended up seperating. Those 6 weeks seem like years! There is so much more I could write here, but I truly don't feel any of that is important. Just know that being seperated was long, lonely & draining. But, in the end - very good for us.

I almost just deleted everything & walked away from the computer again; like I've done 20+ times. I truly just have a hard time writing this down. And, part of me still feels that maybe this is just too personal to write. But, after talking to so many people about their family situations, I KNOW that what I have to say will help someone. If nothing else, it will let them know they're not alone in their trials!

I can only describe my feelings during that time as SAD. Our kids needed new clothes that we couldn't afford to buy. We ate lots of beans & rice. We stayed home a lot so we wouldn't have to pay for gas. Our tv broke & we couldn't afford another one. The brakes in our car went out. The refrigerator broke. The list goes on. It seemed like our problems continued to pile on top of us. During the 6 weeks that Jeff was out of the house, I felt a great responsibility to do everything perfectly for my kids. They didn't do anything to deserve this, yet it was happening to them. That really bothered me. I cried every day. Life was just so hard. It was difficult for me to go to church because I knew that my friends were uncomfortable being around me. I went anyway. I knew that our seperation would be a shock to lots of people who probably thought the Shephards were the perfect, happy family as we portrayed. I wasn't willing to tell details about our problems & I know that made it hard. (The reason Jeff had left was over some bad decisions & I just didn't want to tell the whole world his faults. I wanted them to know his good side & all the great things about him. And, to keep my kids from being hurt as well.) People didn't know what to say so they said nothing. I would pray to just help me make it through one more day. And, luckily, the next day always came & I survived. I became great friends with God. I'm not sure how I would have made it through those times without him.

We started seeing an excellent counselor & things between us got better. Jeff came home & it was so good when he did. And...he eventually did find a job. He works for Auto Spa. It is a company that does interior work & repairs on cars. It payed well, but with all our debt, it wasn't paying enough to cover our bills. And, our credit cards were stacking up. There was still stress in our lives & our marriage was one day at a time. It was during this time that I realized that I probably needed to go get a day-time job or SOMETHING to help out our situation. I had 25 piano students but that wasn't really cutting it. I started to pray about what to do. I attended the temple & that was where the answer came to me. I continuously felt the feeling - USE YOUR TALENTS! I was a little unsure what this meant, because I thought I WAS using my talents. I came home & made a list of what all my talents were. My love for teaching the piano continuously kept coming into my head. I've taught piano lessons since the age of 16 & have always enjoyed it. But, how could I teach more students withoug going crazy & truly giving them a good education?!? I decided to go on the computer & do a search on piano lessons. It was here that I found a program called the Mayron Cole Piano Method where you teach students in groups. I read the website from top to bottom & stayed up all night thinking about it. I loved how it taught students to read the notes & the classes were fun!! It felt so right! I realized that by teaching this method I would be able to teach 3x as many students. But, the drawback was that I had to have my own studio with keyboards & be trained and certified. With the help of my wonderful mother, I was able to do it!!

After 3 months of training, gutting out & painting the office, buying keyboards, piano books & all that I needed - my new Piano Studio was up & running! I named it Diane's Piano Studio! I advertised in several places & in August of 2008, my studio was officially opened. I had 70 students & was THRILLED!!

Both of our incomes make exactly enough to pay our monthly bills with a little bit of wiggle room. What a blessing!!

Now that it's 2009, I look back on 2008 & can honestly say I am grateful for all that happened. That might seem a little strange to say, but really, let's put this in perspective:
1. Eating beans & rice for so long really helped us appreciate it when we have other foods to eat! Going out to eat is now a treat which is really what it should be. And, I am soooo prepared to live off of very little if the future were to bring that.
2. Jeff & I are better now then we were before. I appreciate him in so many ways that I didn't see before.
3. I never would have started my own Piano Studio had I not been forced to do it. What a blessing!! I enjoy it so much more then teaching one-on-one & I really feel my students are learning more. I am thrilled!
4. I learned Heavenly Father does not abandon his children - EVER! I felt him with me every day. When I was feeling the worst, it was he who helped me make it through. There isn't any doubt in my mind that God is real & that he loves me. I'm not sure I would have had that knowledge engrained in me had I not gone through some very difficult times.
5. I am a firm believer in paying tithing. I believe that the Lord gave us everything we have & if we just return 10% back to him, he will take care of us. There were many times when I had a choice to pay my tithing or a bill. I have always paid my tithing & I know we have been blessed because of it. Through our whole ordeal we never made a late payment. Not once. That to me is a miracle.
6. I am so much more sympathetic to people who are going through a hard time. My first tendency before would be to just stay quiet, not get into their business & let them deal with it. Now that I have lived through it, I know that we need each other. I am now more willing to step out of my comfort zone & offer help. And, I think I now know what to say!
7. I learned to appreciate my body more. Okay, so what does that mean!? Well, through out the year, I used food as my comfort. I gained a total of 25 lbs. (Oh, that was hard to type!) But, I am right now in a better place mentally & can see so much clearer on what I need to do to improve my habits. My body is still healthy & it helped me get through the whole ordeal. I don't like this weight, but I do like the knowledge that I've learned about how to improve.

Well, if you're still reading.....I'm surprised. This is quite long!!!!!! :) :) :)

Life is always going to have trials. I feel better prepared to deal with them head on. I am very grateful for what I've learned & can't wait to see what 2009 will bring. It can't be anything worse then last year - right?

Okay, so those of you who read to the end - you're probably wondering what your prize is? Well, it's knowing that you are loved & appreciated very much by me. The fact that you took the time to read all the way to the end, tells me that you care about my family enough to take the time to finish this. THANK YOU!! Here's a big hug. Do you feel it?!?!?!???! :)

Hopefully my next entry won't take me a year to post.

He made it!

2007-09-24T12:41:00.000-07:00

I am very EXCITED to announce that Jeff took his Physical Test for entrance into the Police Academy & passed. He then had his Oral Test & did great on that as well. He is now getting all his paperwork ready & hopes to have it ready ASAP. If all goes well, he should be in the Police Academy within 3-4 months. We'll keep you updated on the progress.

If I can get him to sit down for a few minutes, I'd love to interview him & take his picture. He's lost 27 lbs through this whole ordeal & actually looks pretty dang good.

More to come!

A picture says 1,000 words!

2007-08-31T11:53:00.000-07:00

Here are my JOYS!! These are the people I love being around & live my life for. :) This picture is a good one because it tells so much about us & who we are.

First of all, everyone is in their Sunday Clothes. Kinda funny that we had time to actually stop & take a picture before we went to church! This never happens!! We're usually running out the door & barely making it on time. That's why this picture is a treasure! We were all completely ready this Sunday with 5 min. to spare. MIRACLES DO HAPPEN!!!!

I'm sure you've noticed Cameron's eyes. Yes, this is a typical look for our 9 yr. old boy. He calls himself the "Class Clown". He is always doing something funny & trying to get a laugh. You'll also notice that his shirt is a little short on the arms. I bought that shirt only 2 months ago & he has already grown out of it!! I can't keep up!

Brianna is sitting in her Daddy's lap which is her favorite place to be. She is also snuggled in her favorite blankie that she got from Grandma. She HAS to have this blankie when she sleeps. She is playing with her fingers which is a trait that she got from her mother (ME) & I got from my mother! We are always counting on our fingers & moving them around when we sit. (Do we need therapy?!?!?)

McKenna is standing in back & overseeing the family. She is the 2nd Mom in our house. She loves to be in charge & take control. Most of the time she does pretty good except when her 9 yr. old brother doesn't want to listen. She also is growing up & has become so tall. She's not a little girl anymore. This picture is where I see a young women starting to bloom & it scares me a little bit! I don't know how to parent a teenager. (I think I need to get some books!! Or maybe some counseling?)

Jeff & his trademark smile are what first intrigued me by him. Isn't he cute? The sweater he has on is one that I bought him for Christmas. I'm not sure he really likes it but he wears it because I gave it to him. That's the kind of guy he his - he tries to do anything to please me. And, he does a pretty good job of that - sometimes. :) (Hey, you can't be perfect all the time!)

And then we have the lovely background of this picture. This is our office & it looks very messy. It always looks messy! I clean it up once a week & within 5 min. it's a mess again. (I would hate to see what it would like if I didn't clean it up once a week?!?!??) But, the fact that you get to see us for who we are is priceless!! This is the Shephard family & my treasures.

Ah, the life of a Mother!

2007-08-31T10:11:00.000-07:00

I love being a Mother. I really do! However, being a Mother has its moments...

So, yesterday morning I am woken up to a 9 yr. old boy practicing the piano at 6:30 a.m. (He is an early riser & practicing early in the morning was his choice.) Normally, this is a good thing. I love to hear my kids practice the piano. But, today he decides to pound as loud as he possibly can and he is playing the same song over & over!!! I get out of bed, go into the piano room & in a quiet voice say - "Can you play a little softer please?" His VERY LOUD reply was - "I thought you liked me to play the piano. I thought you wanted me to practice! I hate piano. I hate this song. I hate practicing." I walked out of the room & decided to go back to bed & hoped he would to so that he could possibly wake up on the "other" side of the bed this time & be in a better mood.

The entire family continued to endure the loud pounding of the piano music until McKenna, the controlling older sister who likes to sleep in, has had enough. She yells from her room in an extremely irritated voice - "STOP IT CAMERON!" And the war begins. It's 6:35 a.m.

After putting out the fight, I proceed to go into the kitchen to start breakfast. It's now 6:45 a.m. I am thinking in my head about the yummy fresh peaches I got from my mother-in-law & how good they would taste on a bowl of Millet. (Yes, we do eat Millet & love it. Okay, not all of us love it. I would say MOST of us love it. The rest of us like to sit & complain for 20 min. & then eat the whole bowl.) As I start to get out a pot to boil some water, I here my 9 yr old walk into the kitchen. (He's the complain for 20 min. kinda kid!) He asks - "What's for breakfast Mom?" I reply - "Millet with fresh peaches! Doesn't that sound good? Would you like to help me set the table?" And the whining starts & goes something like this - " Why can't we have pancakes? I love pancakes! We NEVER have pancakes! You ALWAYS make healthy stuff. I'm so tired of healthy stuff!! My friends eat pop tarts for breakfast. Why can't we have pop tarts for breakfast?" (Just have to clarify here that I make pancakes about every other day.) After listening to the whining for a good 5 min. I proceed to finish the Millet breakfast & the whining boys sits down & complains some more & eats his whole bowl. My 3 yr old smears her cereal on the table, in her hair & then proceeds to "accidentally" drop it on the floor. I clean it up as the 11 yr. old, who is running late, continues to say - "Can we hurry with scriptures & prayers? I have to fix my hair! I need to finish my room. You're reading too slow!!" The 9 yr old then starts to tease the 3 yr old & make her scream & puts up a fit when asked to move to another chair. We finish breakfast, read scriptures & say family prayers. (Of course the 3 yr. old HAS to say the blessing on the food & the family prayer to day!) It's 7:30 a.m.

All fires put out, messes cleaned up, I start making lunches. I see the kids getting ready for school & ask Cameron - "Did you brush you teeth?" His reply - "YES!" I look at his teeth & it is very apparent that he has NOT brushed his teeth. I said - "Did you REALLY brush them?" He says - "Oh, you mean TODAY?"

As I get dressed in my workout clothes, (positive thinking here!! If I actually put the workout clothes on, the chances of working out increases!) I notice that our 3-yr. old potty-training girl is standing still, looking down at the little puddle that has dripped down around her feet. She looks up & says to me - "Mommy, I need to go potty!" I clean up another mess...........happily.

I glance into McKennas room who is now on her bed reading a book without her hair fixed & her room is a BIG mess. (Remember the rant she made at the breakfast table about being late & not having enough time to get ready?) I look at the time & realize we need to be in the car NOW to be on time for the carpool. I holler out to the kids to get into the car. McKenna comes running into the room without her hair fixed & says - "Hold on! I'm not ready!" Cameron then starts in with - "Then why were you reading a book?" And another war begins.

We barely pick up the 4 other carpool kids on time & make it to school as I kiss the kids goodbye & tell them all - "Have a good day! I LOVE YOU!!" It's 8:30 a.m.

So....................., today is a new day. I wake up to a happy boy playing a great rendition of "The Hall of the Mountain King" on the piano. He asks me whats for breakfast. I turn on the wheat grinder & say - "Pancakes!" He grins and continues practicing.

It's going to be a good day. :)

I won a Scout Award!

2007-08-31T08:35:00.000-07:00

This past week Cameron was supposed to make & decorate a dessert for a merit badge in scouts. The dessert had to reflect the 100 yr. celebration of Cub Scouting!! Here he is with his creation! He made cookie dough rolled it out into a big circle on a baking stone. Then he frosted it with the boy scout colors & did the entire design all by himself. He's a pretty good artist. (The center design is the picture on the side of his cub scout book.) He won an award for the most unique because his was the only one that was a big cookie!

Cameron is eagerly working on all his scouting requirments so he can earn his Bear before his birthday in October. He & his dad have been working together & he's on top of it all. Isn't he a cute little cub scout?!?

Anyone for homemade bread?

2007-08-31T08:11:00.000-07:00

There's a new cook in town!! For the past month I've been making homemade Whole Wheat bread. It's the only bread we eat! McKenna, my 11 yr. old has been right beside me everytime & helping me put it together. One day she said - "Mom, can I make some bread?" I was busy at the moment & told her I wasn't able to help her. She said - "No, I want to make it all by myself." (Okay, now remember - she's 11 yrs old!!) I figured it would be a good experience for her & told her to "clean up her mess!!" :) :) :) :) :)

Without me ever stepping in the kitchen or giving any pointers, she went to work completely on her own. Pretty soon I was smelling fresh homeade bread cooking in the oven! When the bread came out, it was aboslutely PERFECT!! As a matter of fact - IT WAS BETTER THEN MINE!! I told her she was hired as my new bread maker. I haven't made a loaf of bread ever since. :)

When grandma came over, she tasted the bread & decided she wanted to hire McKenna to make homemade bread for her twice a month. She sells her bread for $5/loaf. Did I mention that she's 11 yrs old!! (Don't you just love her pose? She's 11, going on 18!!)

Time to get with the program!

2007-08-30T10:40:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted on here for awhile & figured I needed to get with it!!!

Our family life has been a little "stressful" lately & it's just been hard to find something fun & happy to post!! But, I realize that everyone has these times in their life & it's OKAY!! We always survive & come out better in the end. I have always said that there's something to learn from every situation & I figure by the time these challenges are over, we'll be ready for anything!

So, I've decided I'm going to post all the WONDERFUL things that I have in my life. Are you ready for this?

1. I belong to the Church of Jesus Christ & feel this is one of the biggest blessings in my life!! I can't imagine what my life would be like if I didn't know the truths that I know!
2. I KNOW that God loves me & my family & is watching over us. He is in charge!
3. I have a big, loving family who are all great examples for me.
4. I have 3 healthy, happy kids who are smart & have testimonies. Yesterday at breakfast we were reading the scriptures & the conversation came up about having to be killed or denying our testimonies. Both McKenna & Cameron said they'd die before they ever denied their testimonies. I had no idea they even understood what that meant. When I asked why they felt that way, they said because if they die they knew they'd be going back to Heaven to live with God & that wasn't scary.
5. I have a nice house & 2 running cars!!
6. I have a healthy body.
7. I have 35 great piano students & love to teach them & see them learn & get excited!!
8. I have a 3 yr. old who loves to snuggle & tell you she loves you several times a day. :)
9. I like (hate) working out on my treadmill. (I hoping that trying to stay positive about this will make me actually like it!!! ha!)
10. I have a husband who is determined & never gives up!

So, there you have it!! My TOP TEN LIST!! Just writing this has made me feel happy! :) So, next time you feel a little down, try making your happy list & see how you feel!

I'm doing the HAPPY DANCE!!!!

I absolutely LOVE Spaghetti!

2007-08-30T10:30:00.000-07:00

We recently attended a Ward Spaghetti Dinner. Brianna was more then thrilled! She was the first in line. We were laughing when we saw her plate filled with noodles ONLY! No salad, no bread, no sauce, no drinks! NOTHING BUT NOODLES!! Then, she proceeded to climb up to the table & chow down on the entire plate. She was enjoying her spaghetti so much that we had to take a picture.

Believe it or not, she ate the entire plate!!!!

(Isn't she just so dang cute?!?! Look at those closed eyes and how wide she opens her mouth. And can I just mention how much I love little girls in pig-tails? Oh, am I bragging?!?!?!?)

Look where I went last week!!

2007-06-18T11:53:00.000-07:00

I did it!! I attended a Women's Health Retreat this weekend & it was FABULOUS!! I reccomend something like this to anyone & everyone!! Pictured above is our little group minus 2 who had to leave early or was taking the picture. :) I am in the red on the left. Our wonderful leader is the tiny one on the right. Anyone want to guess how old she is?! If you guess 25 which is how old she looks, you are wrong. Think HIGHER!! Much HIGHER!! She is an amazing person & I learned a great deal about myself & how my food choices are making me not so healthy. At this retreat we cooked our own food at every meal which I LOVED!! Hands on works best for me. We worked out every morning & we had great classes on all kinds of things realating to our health. I made some wonderful friends & am looking forward to keeping in contact with all of them for life!!

If you'd like more information about this retreat, you can visit http://erleentilton.com/healthretreat2.htm

Update on Jeff's testing!

2007-06-18T11:28:00.000-07:00

No picture for this one. :) Just wanted to update everyone on Jeff's testing to enroll in the Police Academy. He went in for the 1 1/2 mile run & passed easily. He did the push-ups without any problems & for some reason was not able to do all the 28 sit-ups that were required. He had practiced at home & did 28 without any problems. But, when he got there, he was very disappointed that he missed passing the physical portion by 3 sit-ups. However, he passed the written test!!! YEAH!! (He will find out his score in the mail.)

The next step from here is for Jeff to try out again next month. He has to do the entire run & push-ups again along with the sit-ups. We're crossing our fingers that he makes it this time.

Say a few prayers for him.

My husband - the Police Officer?!?

2007-06-03T22:30:00.000-07:00

It's official! Jeff got the invitation in the mail. After filling out the application and having it screened, the DPS has invited Jeff to come try out for being a Police Officer. He will go in for his evaluation on June 12th at 6 a.m!! BRIGHT & EARLY!! He will run a mile & a 1/2, a 300m dash, the obstacle course, a vertical jump, do timed sit-ups, push-ups & then go through all kinds of tests & evaluations.

How do I feel??! Good question!! I've never had a Police Officer for a husband, so I'm not quite sure what to expect. I DO know that Jeff has been wanting to do this for over 9 yrs. I thought that perhaps the idea of being a Police Officer would go away, but it only became stronger. So, I decided this must REALLY be something he wants. And, I'm excited for him!! I told him to follow his dreams. We'll keep you posted on how it goes. :)

Before & After

2007-06-03T22:08:00.000-07:00

I've had lots of requests of people who wanted to see these pictures - so I'm going to post them here for everyone!! The first picture was taken in July of 2005. The second was 1 yr. later. (My daughter took the picture & told me to pose & I did!!) I lost a total of 75 lbs. And since then I gained 4, lost 5, gained 3 & lost 4 & then gained 5 again. But who's counting anyway?!?! I'm feeling good & have kept the majority off for a whole year. YEAH!! I'd like to lose another 25, but I'd be fine if I stayed right here for the rest of my life.

I still love chocolate & eat junk now & then. I love to have fun & am always up for a good meal. But, those are on rare occasions - like when I'm around all of you. So, if you see me chowing me & want to know where I hold it all, just know it must be a very special occasion!! NO, REALLY!!

YUMMY!!!

2007-06-03T20:18:00.000-07:00

Okay, so my birthday is next month. :) I'll be OLD!! (Closer to 40 then 30!!!) I've been trying to decide what I want for dinner that night. (You know it's all about the food, right?) Now you may be asking yourself - "What does your birthday have to do with the nasty picture on the right?"

This picture is actually a cake!!!! HA!! Don't you just love it?!? It's a chocolate cake made with crumbled cookies & rolled Tootsie rolls on top. Wouldn't it be a hoot if I made this & served it to my kids for dessert?! They'd think I need to check myself in to the nearest Looney Bin! Anyone want the recipe?!?!?

Mom, I'm tired!

2007-06-03T18:08:00.000-07:00

A picture tells 1,000 words! While eating lunch, Briannas head kept falling over & she seemed to be moving real slowly. I asked if she was tired & her firm response was - "NO!" So, I turned around to get her a drink. It took me all of 15 seconds. When I turned back around with a glass of milk, this is what I found!!

I guess NO must mean YES!!

And they said I couldn't sew!

2007-06-03T17:56:00.000-07:00

So, this is a bag. I really cute bag - don't you think? I didn't buy it at Target. It isn't something you can get at the Clearance Section in Macy's. This is a very RARE bag. It's worth more then I can even tell you. That's because this bag is something I MADE!!! (Okay, get back up off the floor & snap your jaw shut!) I really did make this. REALLY!! ..........No, I'm serious here.

I've never been known for my sewing skills. I have lots of talents & sewing just doesn't happen to be on the list. :) However, I took Home Ec in High School & passed with an A+!!! I still couldn't tell you exactly how I made the shorts, dress, shirt & blanket that I brought home from the class. The teacher just kinda liked me so she pretty much helped me with everything by telling me what to do!! I obeyed & the clothes turned out BEAUTIFUL!!

My very, very wonderful cousin Sara Bennion helped me make this. )And, she will probably never help me again after this. HA!) I think she realized that night that when I said I don't know how to sew - I WAS SERIOUS!! However, Sara was very patient & the purse actually turned out pretty dang good. I think I may even use it. IMAGINE THAT!! Thanks Sara!

The Price is Right!

2007-06-03T15:49:00.000-07:00

Here we are!! 2 weeks ago my mother, 8 sisters & I all traveled together in a big 15 passenger van to go to The Price is Right!! This picture was taken immediately after we left the show. We're not bad lookin' for having to get up at 3:30 am that morning & getting zero sleep after hanging out on the street corner. (YES, we actually did that!!) Our shirts say - "My Mom Loves Bob!" And of course, my mother couldn't have the same shirt, so hers said - "I'm the Mom that Loves Bob!" We had a blast. We got to sing for Bob Barker & he even introduced us on TV as a very special family. We got to stand up & wave!! It aired on May 25th. My mom got an autographed picture of Bob Barker that she hung on the wall right next to a picture of Dad. (Oh, just joking!!) We are STARS!! Any of us will be happy to sign autographs if you want one. :)

I couldn't post this picture & tell you about our Price is Right experience without telling you a funny story. (Yes, you know me - always got a story to tell!) As we were walking into the waiting area for the Price is Right one of the workers was reading all of our shirts as we passed by & counting how many of us there were. My Mom was the last to enter & he leaned over to her & said - "Are all these girls yours?!?" My very prim & proper Mother answered - "Yes, they are." Then she paused & said - "I guess I never got spayed or neutered!" HA!!!! HA!!!! For those who don't know, Bob Barker announces at the end of every show to help control the Pet Population by spay or neutering your pets. So, there you have it. This will go down in my Mom's history right along with her Michael Jackson dance she performed at the Family Reunion.

Can I just tell you how much I LOVE my sisters!! This pictures tells more then just cute t-shirts & tired grins. It shows a family of girls who will do any for each other. It's tells of a mother who sacrificed more then we even know for the sake of her family! When I see all of us together, I think of what it will be like it Heaven. Complete JOY!! The only thing missing is our cute brother.

Welcome to our on-line Family Journal!

2007-06-03T14:42:00.000-07:00

It's new! It's exciting!! It's my on-line Family Journal!! (And the crowd cheers!!)

Okay, so maybe you're not as excited about this new journal as much as I am. :) But, this will benefit you as much as it will ME!! This on-line journal will help me keep in contact with all my friends & family. And, as most you all know - this Shephard Family isn't very good at keeping in contact with friends & family. Those who live close to us see us regularly & know our happenings, but if you live quite a ways a way - you probably forgot what we looked like!!! Well, you're in luck because I added our most recent family picture. Just to jog some of your memories - I am the woman on the left. My name is Diane. (yep, that's me!) Jeff is the handsome guy on the right holding a cute curly haired Brianna. (Who just turned 3 yrs. old last week) McKenna is our 11 yr. old in the middle & Cameron is the happy 9 yr. old boy with the big grin in front. Are we starting to look familiar to you now?!?!?!

As interesting things happen in our lives, I will post it on here & send it out to all of you! Sounds pretty cool - doesn't it? I will attach pictures, tell stories, & post happening of the children & generally anything I feel like posting that happens to our family! Just a little warning - some of it may be a little crazy! Are you up for it?!?!?

ENJOY!!!

Love,

Diane & the Silly Shephards