Back on the Wagon

I have been off of the blogging wagon for a little while. There have been so many important things happening in the world that I have felt like I didn't really have anything important to say. I've been so moved by so many things going on that I have felt like blogging about birthdays and trips and recipes is so insignificant. But I am back at it.

First a word about the Nielsons. I have known the extended Nielson family since Jr. High. I went to school with Christian's older brother Peter and his sister Alice. Their oldest sister, Debbie, is in my ward now. My younger brother dated their sister Helena. They are an amazing family that has already endured the loss of one sister, Charity, to a brain tumor. My heart goes out to their entire family. I wish I could afford to do more for their recovery, I am keeping all of them in my prayers.

I have read the Nie Nie Dialogues for a while and at times have felt so insecure but have decided that one thing I can do is try to be more like her. I will cherish motherhood moments more. I will let my kids use my good scrapbook things for their projects. I will relish my time with Mr. Ridd. I will make my home a haven for my family and those who come to visit. I will probably not wear red lipstick but I will try harder to be more presentable.

Second, a word about politics. I've never been a John McCain fan - Never - and he's from Arizona - but I am becoming a Sarah Palin fan. The more I hear about what she has done with and for the state of Alaska, the more I like her. I read Scribbit, a motherhood, craft, recipe blog written by Michelle who lives in Alaska. She has shared her insight here and here. I think I like what I see and I think that my Morgan looks a little bit like her.

Another word about politics, if you live in Arizona, check out this website about proposition 102. It has so much information. If you live somewhere else and your state is taking on same sex marriage, I encourage you to read this document put out by my church and join the coalition to preserve the sanctity of marriage.

These are the things that have been occupying my mind and limiting my desire to blog. These things - and my husband's birthday. I have been loathe to post about Alan's day and include his picture because when you see this picture you will undoubtedly see the candles on the cake. If you have been reading my blog for a while or if you know me and know how old I am, you will see the candles on the cake and know that I married a younger man. I am a cradle robber. At our wedding dinner my dad told everyone that I met Alan while I was babysitting him. That is not true. He is my younger brother's best friend and I met him when I had to drive him home because he wasn't old enough to drive. That is a lot different.

Alan hates birthday partys. He never wants me to invite anyone over, he never wants to go out to eat for fear I will have the waiters bring over a cake or something. So we had a quiet dinner at home - creamy chicken piccata pasta and an ice cream cake for dessert. I feel like every year on Alan's birthday I should send his mom flowers to thank her for raising such a good boy that turned in to the incredible man that I married. I couldn't be more thankful to her or FOR him.