Have you ever just stopped and looked at the sunset?

My family was coming home from Ft.Myers on Sunday night and we were just taken back with how beautiful the country and world is. It was breathtaking, I haven't seen a sunset like this in a long time. Life seems so busy sometimes.. it was nice just sitting still and riding in the car, enjoying the beautiful view and conversation with my honey Steve while Hunter slept.

My 2 soccer stars!

Our family has officially joined the sports world for kids. Hunter is a "Kangaroo Kicker" and Steve is the coach of the team... How cool is that?!?! Steve was a little nervous about it, he said how do you teach 8 3 yr old to play soccer but he did great. They actually where organized and practiced kicking to the goal, running and kicking and just plan having some fun. I'm so excited for this stage in Hunter's life. He can use all those athletic skils. I have always wanted to be a soccer mom! Yeah! They put me in charge of all the parents - organzing trophies and calling parents- this kinda stuff if right up my alley. I'm the coaches wife..way cool!! (wink) ;)

I can't Sleep!!

Have you ever had those nights where you wake up to pee like 3 times... toss and turn ALL night and your mind just takes over. This is me tonight. Actually lately lots of night. What is going on is is a full moon.

Well tonight all I could think about was this book I was reading by Sherry L Dew and the chapter is "THIS IS ONLY A TEST" - I look at my life and others lives and just don't understand some of the trials we have been put thru and the pain that comes with it. Yet lately i'm seeing the rewards of some of the trials that my family has endured. There really is light at the end of the tunnel....If that makes sense. This is a quote out of the book that I really liked.

" President George Q. Cannon -No Matter how serious the trial, how deep the distress, how great the affliction, GOD will never desert us. He never has , and He never will. He cannot do it. It is not his character. He is an unchangeable being, the same yesterday, the same today, and he will be the same throughout the eternal ages to come.. we may pass through the fiery furnace; we may pass through deep waters; but we shall not be consumed nor overwhelmed. We shall emerge from ALL the trials and difficulties the better and purer for them, if we only trust in our God and keep his commandments. THIS LIFE IS A TEST, BUT ONLY A TEST!."

Then of course they have the scripture 2 Nephi 2:11 "it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things, if not so ... righteousness could not be brought to pass, neither wickedness, neither holines nor misery, neither good nor bad. Wherefore, all things must needs be a compound in one".

It is interesting to me how when the trials seem the hardest for me it is hard to turn to the lord, and I have questioned my faith and asked why before not understanding the tragic and sad times...and then as I continued to read the next paragraph said:
Each experience with the Savior leads to greater faith, and as our faith increases, our vision of and confidence about who we are grows clearer. Satan whispers that life's not fair and would have us question the gospel. Bad things shouldn't happen to good members of the church, should they? Well the answer reads: The gospel isn't a guarantee against tribulation. This would be like a test with no questions. Rather, the gospel is a GUIDE for maneuvering through the challanges of life with a sense of purpose and direction. The lord feels all of our cries and saddness.

I remember a special friend told me that our religion is based on faith and that is the only thing we have to go on. Working thru sadness and trials and having faith that is will be o.k. Wow! Along with faith we are given the Holy Ghost and D&C 11:13: "just one of the many gifts that the Holy Ghost provides he - inspires tenderness and humility strengthens us during trials and brings comfort and peace; enhances any natural abilites we have, helps us obey, enlightens our minds and fills our soul with joy. The presence of this gift if foundational to our faith. So when I read this chapter it just made sense, it just all came together.

The end of the chapter it said - More than ever before the lord needs our faith and faithfulness, our viality and ingenuity, our unwavering commitement and conviction. We are witnesses of the lord Jesus Christ, the living capstone of all that has come before us and and VITAL link to all that lies ahead... yes this life is a test, It is also a glorious privilege.

Kind of alot... sorry... So that what was on my mind... I guess I can go to sleep now... my mind is clear. (thanks Emily for suggesting the book) :)

A funny night!

So imagine it is 1:45 in the morning!! You are sound asleep dreaming wonderful dreams and all of a sudden a loud long piercing noise rings out in your bedroom...... i'm totally laughing out loud right now because I have never seen Steve jump up so fast out of bed. I'm telling you it was so dang funny. Our fire alarm had gone off, so of course Steve checked the whole house making sure Hunter was o.k. and there wasn't any fire. We were glad that there wasn't anything wrong but Steve was so ticked that he took the fire alarm down. I haven't laughed so hard like that in quit awhile. I felt bad Steve just wanted to go to bed and all I could do is giggle. I guess it is time to change the batteries. Needless to say we didn't get back to sleep for a long time. What a night. LOL :)

Hunter's first day of School

Hunter started Joy School Today... he was all ready with his new backpack and lunch box that HE picked out all by himself. Of course Steve thinks Alicia was more excited since she set his clothes and shoes out the night before. O.k. O.k. so yes Alicia was totally EXCITED for Hunter. He starts his day out with learning about the day - weather outside, his ABC's, story time and the joys of life. During the year they will have themes - here are some for example - His body- 5 senses- taking care of your body, the earth- respecting it, Honesty,sharing and service, order and Goal Striving, Making good decisions, Enhancing childrens desire to learn and explore, Trusting and Trying new things, Imagination and Creativity, and appreciating good relationships with family and friends. Hunter just loves his teacher Mrs. Angela. She has a BS in Education and has taught pre-K thru 12. We are just so thrilled to have her teach our little guy. The other additional teacher is Mrs Lisa and she also has a BA in International Studies - she taught english to 5 yr. old in Russia and China. What amazing woman and teachers!!! Steve and I can't be more happy for this new year ahead for Hunter. He came out of school today and said "mommy I had a fun day at school" with the biggest smile on his face. He has some of his favorite buddies with him at school. Hunter will go to school on Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30 to 12:30. When Alicia asked him do you want to go back to school on Thursday he said YES!!!
Hunter was determined to take his monster trucks to school, Alicia had to convince him they would have other toys he could play with so he left them in the car. That was the only place he was leaving them... we had to compromise. :)
I think his backpack is about as big as him. It was a cute picture and moment.
Hunter was excited, he helped mommy pack his lunch, we had tuna sandwich, cheese stick, grapes, brownie and juice.
Hunter was ready to walk up to the door. Oh my goodness Steve and ALicia can't believe he is already 3yrs old. What a big guy! This is Hunter's teacher Mrs. Angela. You can tell they will have a great year together.

Labor Day Family Fun

Our family met up with the Lowry Family and some friends . Thanks Joe and Lacy for providing fun Labor Day events for us... we had a great time swimming and the food was yummy. The big guys got to play alittle water b-ball. Hunter had the best time jumping off of the diving board with Joseph. Lauren Towers check out your little swimmers... we couldn't be more proud of them... all the hard work this summer paid off.... those watching where amazed at how small they were and so free and fearless...Thanks Lauren, Look at them Go, they just love to swim and have fun!!
Good Jump Joseph!!
Slam Dunk by Walmir, Hunter just wanted to watch the big boys play.
Here comes Hunter... catch me daddy!!
Joe and Steve trying to stay afloat while Joseph and Hunter go up and down the diving boards... Steve got a cheat floatie.

Congrats Jennifer and Travis

It was a special day for my dear friend Jen. She married her bestfriend and eternal companion in the Orlando Temple and I was able to be part of that special day. It was a wonderful wedding and Jen was breathtaking, what a beautiful bride. We love both of them and are excited for them as they build there life together.

Chucky Cheese Here we come!!!!

Lacy, Keri, Regi and Alicia Loaded the 5 kids up and off we went to Ocala to spend the morning at Chucky Cheese. You should have seen there eyes when we walked in, all the lights, music and oh my goodness Hunter spotted the MONSTER TRUCK right away. It was so much fun watching the kids play. They went from ride to ride... and THEN they realized you needed token to make things move. So then all I heard was I need more money mommy. We caught Millie dancing a couple of times and the boys enjoyed the basketball hoop. We ended the afternoon with pizza and salad for lunch. It was a fun day and I'm so glad to be able to make these special memories with Hunter and friends.

A Laughter filled day with Lacy

Me and Lacy find ourselves just laughing at each other and the way our boys hear us talk and just IGNORE US... we just had to laugh and I think that is half of the joy of being a mom that we can laugh at ourselves. Just knowing we are doing the best as we can as moms and make up for the rest later. I love talking to Lacy and we have fun when we take the kids out. Today was a good day.. We went to the butterfly exhibit and the museum. Afterwards we had a picnic lunch and the kids did great.

The boy's really enjoyed chasing after the butterfly's. Hunter thou didn't want them to be near him, when they came close to his face he moved almost as if he was afraid of them biting him. A butterfly landed on Millie's shoe and she looked at it for a second and then wanted it off. Lacy was really the only one that a butterfly would stay on her hand. It was a neat experience to go and see all the butterfly's.

Our New Church Callings

Alicia was called as the new Young Womans Secretary... apparently the old YW President passed on the word that I was real organized and so we wanted me for sure. It is nice to back with the Young Woman's program. Steve on the other hand thought he was free from a calling until they pulled him aside and met with him. His new calling is 1st counsler in the Elders Quorum. It is nice to be needed and be able to serve others. Steve is cool with being able to work with Joe Lowry who is the Elders Quorum president. Happy Days Ahead!

A New Calling in Church... WHAT WILL IT BE?!?!

Steve and I have been in Gainesville 3rd ward since we were married. We have had several callings of service in the church. Steve has been YM President, Sunday School President and also a counsler in Sunday School. With all of those callings comes the call on the answering machine... "Sister White can you come in and bring your husband", Those calls are scary. I have been able to serve in the RS on the Home Family and Personal Enrichment team, The Gospel Doctrine Teacher (that was a tough one, but I learned alot) Then I got a call wanting me to come in.. I thought well shoot what could this call be about.. to my excitement ... they called me to be the 1st counsler in Young Womans... it was a breath of much needed fresh air. I really enjoyed it untill about 2 weeks ago, Steve and I found out we where moved to another ward. So now we are in Gainesville 2nd ward.... and as you can imagine I got the call again.... "Sister White can you come in early on Sunday so we can meet with you"... well we will just see what plans the lord has for me.

(maybe magizine rep... :) LOL :) :)

A Wet Weekend!!

Since we were so water logged because of "FAY" most of the fun activities that we USUALLY do OUTSIDE made it in the living room. Steve and Hunter played SOCCER and FOOTBALL - the ceiling fan got hit several times... Hunter has a fast right arm.. :) Once the rain let up for an hour or so we all went 4-wheeling. It was fun just hanging out as a family.

Countdown to Football Season - GO GATORS!

Football Season is always fun around our house... Steve is a SEMINOLE and Alicia is a GATOR!!! Since ALicia dresses Hunter he is a GATOR ALSO!!!! HA HA HA HA!












Sat Aug 30 Hawaii Gainesville, FL 12:30PM(ET)
Sat Sep 6 Miami (Fla.) Gainesville, FL 8:00PM(ET)
Sat Sep 20 at Tennessee Knoxville, TN
Sat Sep 27 Ole Miss Gainesville, FL
Sat Oct 4 at Arkansas Fayetteville, AR
Sat Oct 11 LSU Gainesville, FL
Sat Oct 25 Kentucky (HC) Gainesville, FL
Sat Nov 1 Georgia Jacksonville, FL
Sat Nov 8 at Vanderbilt Nashville, TN
Sat Nov 15 South Carolina Gainesville, FL
Sat Nov 22 The Citadel Gainesville, FL
Sat Nov 29 at Florida State Tallahassee, FL

A RAINY DAY!!!! Tropical Storm FAY ....

Can you see Gainesville????We are UNDER the big mass of rain!! Hunter and I have been in the house ALL day... good thing for lots of new toys from his birthday, we have played Monster Truck Mash. Watched leapfrog ABC's 3 times.. at least he is learning- LOL and read books all about dinosaurs. Hunter even helped mommy do 3 loads of laundry and clean the bathroom and did some vacuuming (he didn't like to vacuum). It is almost 5 now and the rains and wind have really picked up... nothing to bad more just like a hard rain storm.. Nothing us FLORIDIANS can't handle :) :).

A New Way..

I was given great news last week.... After being diagnosed with Thryoid cancer 2 years ago, 2 doses of radiation/hospization and lots of crazy emotions.. my doctor told me that the cancer has shrunk to like a millimeter.. YAHOOO.. that is great! It didn't spread, it is just getting smaller. So Steve and I decided to research and have a new way of eating healthy to kick that one little millimeter spot gone... I have been loving this "New" way of eating and living. Lots of veggies, good fruit, fish, almonds... I love almonds. (Gotta stay away from the processed sugars - you know the real good stuff - LOL)... And I'm surrounded by lots of positive people.. I have already lost 4 big whoppin pounds... in a week in a half. Yeah!! So Dinner tonight is Tilapia Fillet with blackbeans mixed with tomatoes on rice or on the side(I didn't have any rice) & a side of broccoli. It smelled so good in the house cooking the fish and veggies. Anyone have any good fish receipes... Enjoy! I'm excited to continue on this Healthy path.. excercising and eating right. Any one wanna meet me at the gym?

Jen's and Travis Wedding....ahh to be a bridesmaid.

Jennifer and Travis got married in the Orlando Temple Friday night and afterwards the bridemaids went to dinner.. cheesecake factory and shopping... can't beat a fun filled day. Then Saturday afternoon was off to Lake Butler where Jen's family lives for a reception. It was a nice wedding, you could just feel the love between the bride and groom and there familes. Everyone looked amazing, we made new friends and it was the end to a perfect day.



Kristin, Alicia and Courtney got Jen all ready for her wedding night.... and many happy nights to come with a fun girls lingerie party. Travis her hubby to be was happy with all of her gifts. ;)


The girls celebrating Jen's upcoming wedding with dinner and fun gifts.
My adorable & handsome husband Steve hanging out while the reception was going to start. If was kinda weird having a "date" that night...the groomsmen where really cool. We laughed more than anything trying to get the rehersal down and not falling on our faces infront of everyone. LOL


The bridesmaids being silly...

Jen was a BEAUTIFUL Bride. I'm so excited and greatful to be part of this special time in her life.

The White Family

Create your own family sticker graphic at pYzam.com

Black is Back....

BEFORE:::::::













After...
I'm really enjoying the dark hair again. I'm ready to let it grown out and long. We will see how long I can take growing it out.

Mommy was taking pictures of her new hair color and Hunter wanted to show off his new cut. We went to the "Big Boy Barbershop" for him and they treated his just like the big boys. What a cutie.. I just have to say...