A posture fix for CHEAP

I've been trying to have better posture, but it's really hard. I was thinking about buying one of those back sling things to help improve posture, but I'm too cheap to buy one. And then my classmate Michael (he's a professional dancer) told us this awesome [CHEAP] trick.

Put on a kinda tight tank top over whatever you're going to wear, then take the front and lift it over the back of your head so the tank becomes like a shoulder holster. Then wear it around the house.

I only started doing it yesterday and I can tell there's been a huge improvement!
I have lots of back problems. The muscles in my back are not well trained to good posture anymore.
I had an accident when I was seventeen, and I fractured multiple vertebrae in my back and since then I have had lots back issues, then after two pregnancies...well, my back hates me, we'll put it that way. The muscles are constantly tired. I don't just have bad posture, I shlump like no one's business, especially when I'm at home or alone. Then on Sundays when I try to sit up for church my back is just screaming because it's not used to good posture anymore and those muscles are lazy now.
I've gone to physical therapists, and they help a lot! But doing the exercises at home...with kids...well, it's really hard to get motivation to do. It's so much easier when I have a physical therapist (personal trainer really) with a timer telling me what to do, and I just have to do it. Buuut, I don't have one anymore. Anyhoo, so I can tell you from lots of experience that this little trick is helpful. :)

I noticed that when I'm not wearing the tank (keep in mind I've only been using it for one day, and a morning) that subconsciously I stand up straighter, like I would with the tank on. Also, it helps do a little of the work of keeping my back straight because it's pulling around my shoulders. Basically it's taking a little weight off my muscles so they have an easier time getting whipped back into shape. I took off the 'tank shoulder holster' and sat on the bed at my computer and my back started aching so much I put the tank back on, and it was much easier to sit straight up. Of course it's not a miracle maker, I have to put work into it and consciously be straitening my back all day. But it's a huge, cheap!, help.

I just thought I'd share since most of us (especially if we sit at the computer much) are getting horrible posture which not only looks bad, but it can even lead to internal problems, and create headaches, and all sorts of nasty stuff.
So, try it out!
Tell me what you think? Is it helpful to you? Not that much? Have you tried something else that works better or just as good?

~Crystal

"Find your humanity!"

You can hear her voice in your head? Can't you? Hahaha. My guess is that if you're like me you'll see it about twice and then hurry and scroll down so you can't see it anymore. So you don't get annoyed to death. ;)

Here's something I was thinking about. Rowan was on a "Tangled" kick for a while, so I heard this movie, and this line, over and over...and over, and over, and over.

And it struck me. When she says "humanity" what she's really implying is "divinity."

A 'humane' thing to do means the compassionate thing; the kind and loving thing to do. Of course the derivative is 'human'.

Human definition:

of, relating to, or characteristic of humans

2

: consisting of humans

3

a : having human form or attributes

b : susceptible to or representative of the sympathies and frailties of human nature 

'Human Nature' vs 'Divine Nature' to me is a very distinct thing. As a member of the LDS Church we are taught about the 'natural man' that is the part of us that wants to give in to temptation, the part that desires to do the lazy or wrong thing. 'Natural man' is also known in the scriptures at the 'carnal man', he wants his carnal desires...things opposite to Godly and divine desires. The 'carnal nature of the flesh' is saying that we are giving in to the wants of our flesh (human nature) instead of our Godly desire, like doing good and avoiding evil and temptation.

'Divine nature' is the part of us (the soul in us) that is divine; that is a part of our Father in Heaven, the part of us that wishes to do the kind, compassionate, and loving thing. Because after all, God is LOVE. We, as His children, are also divine in spirit. Part of Him dwells in us, in our souls and hearts. Do you not feel that special thing in your heart that reaches out to give a kind word to a broken heart, or to comfort those that mourn, that feeling that we are all connected together. Everyone in this whole world, and that ever was, or will ever be. We are Divine, sons and daughters of God, and therefore divine brothers and sisters in spirit. We are Divine. Isn't that just an incredible thought?
So today especially, after the horrible events (http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2012/12/live-updates-newtown-ct-school-shooting/), the killings of those poor people and children let us remember our divinity and do something good in this world for someone else. I will be praying and sending good thoughts and love to those families of which their lives will never be the same. May they find peace and comfort. I know there will be 'helpers' there for them, shining examples of love, kindness, and their own divinity.

~Crystal
“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” To this day, especially in times of “disaster,” I remember my mother’s words and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers – so many caring people in this world.” - Mr. Rogers

Veruticco Farm

Alyssa and I finally met up with our girls and had a fun play date at Veruticco Farm in Gilbert this morning! 

A fun barrel-train ride, a big bubble bouncy thing, farm animals, games and crafts, etc. Needless to say Addie, Rowan, and Mercedes had a blast! 

On the barrel-train ride around the farm.

Alyssa and Addie on the train :) 

 Mercedes and I riding together.

 An accidental picture, but I thought it looked kinda cool.

 Playing on the bubble-bouncy thing.

:) 

All three girls playing on the stacked tires...and in the dirt :) 

Birthday twins! Both born the same day. 

"I'm king of the mountain!" 

At the bounce house. Mercedes didn't want to go in, but Addie and Rowan loved it! 

Craft time, decorating pumpkins.  

Second time on the train ride...it was probably their favorite part.  

Smile! 

 Pumpkin head! <3 p="p">

Thanks Alyssa and Addie for coming with us. Sorry I didn't get more pictures of you two. I mostly took these to send to Ben, but I wish I had taken more now. :) We had a blast! Now, here's wishing for an early bedtime ;)

~Crystal

Perfect timing~

     Have you tried the Mormon Channel app yet? It's really wonderful :)
You can listen to scriptures, talks, or they have new episodes on various topics they put together everyday. Usually when I'm cleaning or driving or doing dishes I like to listen to something. I know my awesome sister-in-law loves to fall asleep listening to a good talk.

     Well, this evening while I was doing the dishes I found this gem, and it was just....well, perfect timing. All the things he mentioned were valid to the immediate time (political time). Of course to our day as well and a lot was just tailored to me and what I was looking for. 
So, I had first used the search tool and looked up "Instrument" on the Mormon Channel app and three Conference talk came up. This was the second one. And here are just some of the absolute jewels I found in his talk that spoke to me. But I urge everyone to read the whole thing! It's great!

"I have a friend who is a member of a political panel that is seen each week on national television. Explaining her role, she said, “We are encouraged to speak before thinking!” We appear to be living in an era in which many are speaking without thinking, encouraging emotional reactions rather than thoughtful responses. Whether it be on the national or international stage, in personal relations or in politics, at home or in the public forum, voices grow ever more strident, and giving and taking offense appear to be chosen rather than inadvertent."

     (This reminds me of some reality TV shows, all based around making drama)

"The first casualties of human wrath are truth and understanding. James counseled that we be “swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.”...Whether they be false friends or unrighteous teachers, artists or entertainers, commentators or letter writers to local newspapers, seekers of power or wealth, beware of those who stir us up to such anger that calm reflection and charitable feelings are suppressed."

"Have we who have taken upon us the name of Christ slipped unknowingly into patterns of slander, evil speaking, and bitter stereotyping? Have personal or partisan or business or religious differences been translated into a kind of demonizing of those of different views? Do we pause to understand the seemingly different positions of others and seek, where possible, common ground?"

     I feel that every one of God's children have their own troubles and burdens. Why tear another's spirit down by stereotyping and being impartial to others who have differences from us or our opinions? It just tears us down as well to talk and act that way. Even thought I have different opinions or political positions than many friends I feel that is no reason to not be friends! I love them all! 


"We need, as the Lord counseled, to uphold honest, wise, and good men and women wherever they are found and to recognize that there are “among all sects, parties, and denominations” those who are “kept from the truth [of the gospel] because they know not where to find it.” Would we hide that light because we have entered into the culture of slander, of stereotyping, of giving and seeking offense?"

     "seeking offense" Wow. Isn't that true of so many?!

"In this regard, the Lord has counseled in latter days that we “cease to find fault one with another” and “above all things, clothe [ourselves] with the bond of charity, as with a mantle, which is the bond of perfectness and peace.”

     Give, serve, and love everyone! 

"President George Albert Smith observed, “There is nothing in the world more deleterious or harmful to the human family than hatred, prejudice, suspicion, and the attitude that some people have toward their fellows, of unkindness.” ¹⁶ In matters of politics, he warned, “Whenever your politics cause you to speak unkindly of your brethren, know this, that you are upon dangerous ground.”

     The ones that stood out to me here were "suspicion" and "unkindess". They seem like such small things to so many people, but I have seen how it can in fact destroy lives and families. 
And the last line I want to reiterate: "Whenever your politics cause you to speak unkindly of your brethren, know this, that you are upon dangerous ground."


"President Gordon B. Hinckley, has counseled: “Now, there is much that we can and must do in these perilous times. We can give our opinions on the merit of the situation as we see it, but never let us become a party to words or works of evil concerning our brothers and sisters in various nations on one side or the other. Political differences never justify hatred or ill will. I hope that the Lord’s people may be at peace one with another during times of trouble, regardless of what loyalties they may have to different governments or parties.”

     We can give our opinions, but we shouldn't let evil into it. We shouldn't speak try to belittle, or use hatred of others with different opinions or positions, or even of different countries/nationalities/cultures. In my humble opinion we should be able to talk equally of different opinions without getting angry or frustrated. Hopefully everyone can try to bring an "open mind" to a discussion with peace in their hearts and not a single purpose of slandering or attempting to convert everyone to their own ideas or opinions. Because guess what, everyone thinks that they are the right one. 

I leave you with these two quotes that I think go nicely side by side:

"It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it."
-Aristotle

"He that is convinced against his will, is of the same opinion still."
-Attributed to Benjamin Franklin and two others.

I hope that in this political season we can talk. All of us talk without being demeaning or trying to be hurtful or harsh. That we will be able to entertain thoughts and determine for ourselves if they are true or not without an instant shut down. I also hope we can use this for all of our different opinions, not just during election time ;)
And my greatest desire is to personally become so full of charity that I truly love every person I encounter! To find good things about each person I meet and to try and make them shine with their own self-worth. :)

Goodnight!

~Crystal

I know...

I need to update my header. I need to update the whole blog really, but I guess I'll get around to it when I get a little more steam.

~Crystal

~Music that speaks to my soul~

You know those few songs that, at the right time of life they really speak to your soul and leave you moved? Then listening to it over and over and over again, it's like drinking angelic water when you didn't even know you were thirsty for it?

Sometimes I know exactly why it speaks to me, like EFY songs I love really speak to my soul on a very gospel-spiritual level. And some I have no idea why I love them so, so much, but I do and I can't get enough.

Here's a song I found through Spotify and I AM IN LOVE WITH IT!

I can't get enough. I kinda wish I could have somewhere to perform it because there is such a connection made to a song when you perform it in front of people. A mix of the adrenaline and the feelings of the music, and sharing them with an audience....ahhhh. It's so great, but nerve-wracking too....but great  :)

"Once Upon Another Time"

Once upon another time

Somebody's hands who felt like mine

Turned the key and took a drive

Was free

Highway curve, the sun sank low

Buckley on the radio

Cigarette was burning slow

So breathe

Just yellow lines and tire marks

And sun-kissed skin and handle bars

And where I stood was where I was to be

No enemies to call my own

No porch light on to pull me home

And where I was is beautiful

Because I was free

Once upon another time

Before I knew which life was mine

Before I left the child behind me

I saw myself in summer nights

And stars lit up like candle light

I make my wish but mostly I believed...

In yellow lines and tire marks

Sun-kissed skin and handle bars

And where I stood was where I was to be

Once upon another time

Decided nothing good in dying

So I would just keep on driving

Because I was free

I italicized the parts that really spoke to me, although I really could have italicized the WHOLE SONG since it's like she wrote the whole song about me. Thank you Sara :)

~Crystal

Midnight Rambles

This is gonna be a long one. I can tell. ;)

I used to think (up until fairly recently) that since most of our problems, as individuals, are rooted, or can be traced back to things that happened to us as children, that if I could only be the best mother possible (aka: nearly perfect), then my children would grow up with hardly any problems to overcome in their lives. They would be so nicely put together and confident that things would go easier for them, and they could see the world, and themselves more clearly.

Let's go over this logic:
Perfect Mother = Children with no problems.

Errrrrrn. Wrong. See the failed logic here.
First of all, there's no such thing as a perfect Mother. Oh, I can give you a whole list of them that come really, really, really, really, really close...but even they...I don't wanna say it....ugh...yes, even they have their shortcomings.

Also, people are people with individual daily choices and freedom. They decide who they are! They decide if they will DECIDE to overcome any issues in their life, or give in to them. And of course not all problems come from childhood.

The real revelation that came to me was this. Maybe I'm not a perfect mother because my children are supposed to have some problems. WHAT? SAY WHAT?? People aren't supposed to have problems...or are they?

Let me tell you a quick, and very true story. You may have heard of the Biosphere 2. A huge dome was built in Arizona and they put all sorts of plants, animals, insects inside. I don't know everything about it, but there was a lot of research to benefit from it, and I think one reason it was created was to see if people could survive in a biosphere like this one on another planet. Say the Moon or Mars.
(Please forgive my poor grammar. This late at night I'm not paying much attention to it.)
So, people lived in this sphere with all the plants, trees, creatures and their little farm for two years.
They noticed something really interesting when everyone emerged and they took a look inside. A certain species of tree would flop right over. Just completely fall for no reason. WHY?
Because there was no WIND in the Biosphere! It had no opposition for it to brace itself against, and make itself stronger! Here's an interesting tid-bit, the type of wood on the tree that helps it brace itself and get stronger is known as Stress Wood/Reaction Wood. Hmmm. Mull that over for a while. Reaction. I love that.

One of my favorite movies is The Iron Giant (currently Rowan's favorite as well). My favorite line from the movie is this: "YOU ARE WHO YOU CHOOSE TO BE."

I can't tell you how much it irks me when I hear people say in regards to their negative attitude, or their gossiping mouth, or disregard for others, "Well, that's just the way I am. Get used to it."
Indicating that they have no choice over who they are. They know what they do is wrong or hurtful, but they don't care enough to change, and even expect others to accept them and even love them for "who they are." Irks. Totally irks me. (Can you tell I like the word 'irk'. probably 'cause it doesn't feel like a real word, but hey my spell checker thinks it is!)

Anyway, back to being a Mother. To put it mildly my first born (a red-head) is stubborn, and loves power struggles. Up until about a year and two months ago she and I were doing great together! Still had struggles, of course, but I felt pretty good about our relationship and the structure of our day, and in general just being a Mom. But at that point I was about 3 months away from having our second child and I just couldn't play as much, or be as enthusiastic about her or what she was up to. Frankly, I was a big old crank. I was super crabby because I hadn't gotten a good night's sleep in 6 months, and I was huge, no, really HUGE! My pregnancy clothes barely fit. And for the month of May she and I stayed at my parents house (a state away) while my husband went to work in Texas for just over a month. So I was basically a single, very pregnant, very big, and very-addicted-to-pastries mother of a stubborn toddler. In another house, 12 hours away from my house. I was not a very happy person, or pleasant to be around. She got a little crazy and spoiled over the summer, but once we got back home (with a new baby) things seemed fine....until November. Sometime in November she went from being so confident and happy (she would just wave to me and say 'bye' when we dropped her off for nursery) to being clingy, having more outbursts, and I'm sorry to say she has had meltdowns where I had no idea what I was going to do. Seasoned Mothers know what I'm talking about. Where you are borderline crazy and you think "this must be hell", but at the same time you love them so much you are still considering their emotional welfare and wishing you could just hug them and cry over them. All the while telling yourself "If I throw something right now, it will teach her to throw things." But your soul is split in half! So much anger/frustration and so much love competing. If any men are reading this, just be thankful for that 'awful day at work'! (not to mention the new baby crying in the background because her screaming woke her up) double whammy!
But I am making this all sound so terrible. Forgive me. Obviously it is not like this ALL the time.
Yesterday was a day like that. But after nap-time (when she finally went down) I decided that she and I don't get enough one-on-one time. So, after she got up we went to get ice cream. And we had fun!
I LOVE her smiles, I LOVE the say she says "No, thank you." in her cute, high voice. I LOVE that she is so polite, and that she delights in sharing (usually). I LOVE that whenever I say 'Ow.' she comes running over and says "You okay? Here, 'tiss" (aka: kiss) and she'll kiss it "all better." I LOVE that she loves to be outdoors, I LOVE that she is a great big sister. I LOVE how excited she gets in the morning to wake up and have cereal. I LOVE that she sings so well, and that she is so smart. I LOVE HER!

So, let me try and tie this all in together. I know things that happen to us in our lives can condition us, especially when we are children. We the most influential at that age. And each and everyone of us has imperfect parents who parent imperfectly, so we are bound to have things to overcome as we grow older. But what if those 'things', 'problems', 'bumps in the road', 'having a hard time dealing with different stuff in life', were actually blessings? For our benefit. Because like the wind to the trees, the stress wood, no, the REACTION WOOD, problems help build us stronger. We can decide if our REACTION is to give in to the wind and bend, or to react by making ourselves stronger. Fighting that wind and making the best of it! If it is true that 'problems are blessings', then doesn't that make me, an imperfect mother, a blessing-giver?

Here's some new logic:
Imperfect mother = stronger little-child-trees that won't bend in the wind

BUT what about building that 'Reaction Wood'? How will my children know how to do that?
By me not throwing things, by teaching through love and the best example I can muster, and especially, most importantly by teaching them to follow the one who is THE PERFECT EXAMPLE.
Our Savior Jesus Christ. By his words and example I can teach them the proper REACTIONS to have, even when I struggle.

Last equation, I promise. I love non-math equations!

Imperfect, but trying mother, using Christ's example and teachings = strong children who know how to build reaction wood to be strong, through her struggling example and Christ's perfect one
Paired with a husband/Daddy with the same attitude and we're unstoppable! Right? :D

I'm sure this seems obvious and rather silly to some of you reading. Guess what, in a way it is to me too! This principle is something I have known almost my whole life, but when you're in the thick of it (war with a toddler) you just can't think clearly, and I love getting a new perspective on a foundational principal I already know. It opens up so many more channels off of that subject for me to learn more.

Here's from my midnight philosophies to yours.
~Crystal