April Birthdays

I have five beautiful children, three of which were born in the month of April.

Happy Birthday Mayer

Kind, sensitive, affectionate; this is my boy who probably wishes he was an only child.  Mayer is my thoughtful risk-taker, much different from a dare devil or show-off.  

He’s calculated in his choices (thank heavens because he loves skateboarding) and incredibly social.  He loves his friends.  He’s my only child when dropped off at a friend’s house will forget to kiss me good-bye.  There are times he comes to me and shares an experience he’s had with prayer or feeling the love of God in his life.  His independence can get him in trouble because he thinks he can do things better then his big brothers, or even his mom and dad. 

Happy Birthday Eden

Little miss sunshine informed me today she’s no longer a baby. Excuse me?  Don’t I have a say in that?  She is as girly as they come.  If it has glitter, princesses or anything baby doll, she wants it.  My make up has already been altered by little fingers, including missing make-up brushes.  I found her putting eye shadow on her baby doll the other day.  

Nail polish applications are as necessary as eating and drinking.  Too many tutu’s to count, imaginary princess friends and now, I’m afraid to step into Target lest we get stuck in the toy aisles.  We were at the pet store and she cried for a good ten minutes when I made her put back the doggy tutu's.

Happy Birthday Payson

Now this child is my dare devil.  I compare him to Dash from the movie The Incredibles.  He’s incredibly coordinated, athletically gifted and fiercely competitive.  Can anyone say pro-athlete!  His sense of humor is contagious, has a knack for drawing comics and always has a friend close by.  He grows more and more handsome each day and has always loved fixing his hair.  When he was younger he wanted gum and hand sanitizer for his birthday.  This year he’s asking for a $250 pro-scooter.  Well see about that.    

My Spiritual Journey to Weight Loss

We've all seen the cover stories on tabloid magazines showcasing perfect bodies with the headline “How I lost x-amount pounds” or “How I got my body back.”  The celebrity is sporting some string bikini or skin-tight dress, showcasing her glamorized thin body. That’s how society celebrates weight loss.  It’s something to be put on display. 

I've thought long and hard about sharing my current weight lost journey.  If it was a number’s game, it wouldn't be worth documenting, but my experience was somewhat different. 

Mine was a spiritual journey of loving myself and trusting in God.

Let me give you a brief summary of my battle with self-image and weight.  I was a chubby girl, heavier and taller then others my age.  I had a very heavy grandmother and always felt I was destined to inherit such genes.  I struggled with feeling fat and didn’t feel like I fit in with the pretty girls.  I started sports in jr. high and thinned out a bit, but still feel like I was different.  As a young adult, I maintained a healthy weight, but struggled with my self image and losing those last 10 pounds.  I think we all want to be thinner, prettier and more likable.  Even on my wedding day, I was worried about if I was thin enough; pretty silly when looking at the big picture of life.  Fast forward to having five kids in 10 years and I hadn't lost the weight associated with pregnancy.  I had a serious problem.  Sure, I tried eating less and working out more, but the scale wouldn’t budge.  I seemed stuck.

I remember thinking about a year ago “So, this is what it’s like getting older.”  I couldn’t run as fast, jumping on the trampoline with my kids was something I enjoyed any longer and nothing in my closet wanted to fit.  Should I settle?  Did I have a choice?

Then, one day while reading the scriptures I came across this Bible verse.

Eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow we die.

1 Corinthains 15:32

This scripture is also found in the Book of Mormon; Another testament of Jesus Christ.

 2 Nephi 28:7

Yea, and there shall be many which shall say: Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die; and it shall be well with us.

I’ve heard this scripture my entire life and always thought it pertained to those struggling with addition like drugs or alcohol, but this time when I read it, it seemed to speak to me.  Suddenly, I realized it pertained to me and my personal struggles.

 

What was I putting off in my own life, saying “Oh, I’ll get to that later, when I have more time, better resources, more money or more self discipline?”  In other words, what was I procrastinating in my own life?

How many times had I put off starting on a healthier eating plan because tomorrow would always come?

That’s when I realized today was the day.

A friend of mine had recently lost weight on the medi-fast program, so I found a weight-loss coach and ordered the food.  It started out simple enough with eating less and making better food choices when on the 4^th day I said to the counselor “I’m so hungry I think I could eat off my right arm.”  I wasn’t sure if I could do it.  It was too hard.  Was it really worth it?  Should I believe the choices I make today were insignificant because I always had tomorrow to try again?  I had a critical choice to make.  Was today really the day I was going to make sacrifices?  I repeated the scripture again in my mind, over and over again, remembering how it had impacted me and really thought about what God would want of me.  What about people who are facing a serious addictions?  How difficult it must be for them to give up their substance.  I had such sympathy for them when it occurred to me food is an addition.  This was a very personal experience, especially when I recognized how my weight had influenced my self-image.  Did I want another day, another month, another year feeling like I wasn’t good enough?  The weight needed to come off for my personal growth.

I weighed in a week later and lost more weight then I’d expected.  Seeing such fast results made a huge impact.   It was still difficult, every day, every hour, sometimes every minute because I had to make conscious choices about what I could or could not put into my mouth.  I kept the scripture out where I could read it whenever I needed encouragement.  I went the entire Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas season making the necessary food choices to help me reach my goal.  Some days I cried; I was mad and it didn't seem fair.  I had cravings that left me dizzy.  I prayed and drank lots of herbal tea.  Other days I floated; I was sustained and felt like the luckiest girl in the world.  Food was losing control over me. I have never been into diet soda, but some days it was what I needed to get over the hump.

I remember about a month into the program, running down the street to my mom’s house when I noticed how easy it was to run.  I couldn’t believe how free I felt.  My legs were so easy to pick up and my body moved with less effort than before.  This was another motivating experience that kept me going.

I lasted on the program for 8 weeks before I pooped out.  The weight-loss process is mentally exhausting, but medi-fast rocks.  I couldn’t have lost the weight any faster.  I still have a bit more to go to get to my pre-pregnancy weight, but I am so happy where I’m at.  Everyday I thank Heavenly Father for giving me such a gift and when I am tempted to eat something that could compromise my success; I remember my scripture that kept me on track.   

Yea, and there shall be many which shall say: Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die; and it shall be well with us.

So, now that I've been through it what would I say to my pre weight-loss self?

There are many things I learned from my experience that I wish I’d known all those years I’d struggled.  

First of all, find a program that works specifically for you.  That way all your effort and dedication isn’t for nothing.  I spent a lot of time for decades doing things half-way.  I didn’t realize I needed to be 100% committed.  Did that cookie or extra bite really make a difference?  The answer is yes.  I never knew that. 

Second, there is a true start and stop date to dieting.  There is an end in sight.  I didn’t realize this, even while I was on the program and that would have helped.  I guess even while doing it I still didn’t really believe it was possible.  If I could have said “Eight weeks, Laura give it eight weeks,” I think I wouldn’t have felt so frustrated at times.  

Third, reward yourself with beautiful experiences, early morning walks, plant flowers, take pictures to document your process to see how far you’ve come and buy new clothes.  I started buying new outfits for date night and couldn’t believe when I started wearing smaller sizes. 

Lastly, don’t beat yourself up.  This process is difficult, but it’s worth it.  Celebrate even the smallest success.

The Easiest Question I Ever Had To Answer

Almost 16 years ago, I was asked a question by the sweetest person I know.

He asked if I would marry him.
After the Easter pageant at the Mesa Temple, he showed the kids where and how he asked me to marry him all those years ago.  I think my kids were paying attention because later Chandler said "That's where I'm going to propose to my wife some day," and he pointed out a beautiful bench near a flower garden.
My heart still melts for this man I married.

This Easter weekend was wonderful with two Easter egg hunts on Saturday and two on Sunday.

What is it about Easter candy?
It just ends up everywhere, like that awful plastic Easter grass.  Let's just say, there's random jelly beans on the living room floor and those left over candy pieces in the kids baskets have been picked over.

My dishwasher has been on the outs, so I did a quick craigslist.com scan to see what was out there.  There was a used BOSCH dishwasher for $200.  The owner said it was in her mother's home and her mother had just been moved into a retirement community.  It sounded like a great deal (considering they sell new for around $750), but I couldn't get down to Chandler before it sold (about 25 miles away).  Well, a few hours later I did another craigslist search and found a used BOSCH dishwasher for $25 just down the street from me.  The guy said he'd just purchased a home and was replacing all the appliances with stainless steal.  My brother Sam picked it up.  It's installed and works great.  Thank you craigslist.com and thanks to the missionaries who came by just as I was taking the used dishwasher out to my car.  Yep, they volunteered to help with the heavy load.

I was able to finish up a beautiful mint green dresser last week and it already sold at Antique Plaza.
Before:

After:

Hope you had a beautiful weekend.

Here's a peak at my new ring tone; a gorgeous song by Brandon Heath called I'm Not Who I Was.  Whenever someone calls, I don't want to answer because I love to be inspired by this beautiful message.

My brother Matthew Hinze - Open Book

I have four younger brother; four wonderful younger brothers. 

This is my brother Matthew.  

His nickname since he was a young boy has been “gentle giant.”

Here he is being loved on by my sister Rachel before she left on her mission to Argentina.  

He’s a 6’2 state championship football player full of love.

He’s also a song writer.

Over the last few years, Matthew has been working on his first album titled Open Book.  He is very gifted vocalist and guitarist.  I would categorize his music as somewhat Paul Simon, a bit of Neil Young and an influence of John Mayer.  It’s easy listening and very thought provoking.  His music has a lot of depth. 

While Matthew was in town I asked if I could take some pictures of him.  One afternoon, we drove out to the desert and snapped a few photos.

I love photography, but the only way my pictures turn out at all is because of Google's photo shop program Picasa. 

Here’s the before:

A bit washed out and difficult to see his gorgeous face.

And here’s the after with the help of Picasa:

I love how the wood comes to life behind him.  

I have a few CD’s to give away of Open Book.  Please leave a comment below and I’ll use a random generator to select a few of you.

 He also wrote the music for my book trailer of The Memory Catcher.  

Click here to listen.

Antique Show / Flea Market Tomorrow!

I've been getting ready for the Merchant Square Antique Show and Flea Market in Chandler, AZ. Here's a peek at a few of my piles (lots more work still to do before we load up at 4am tomorrow!)

All of these items will be available tomorrow at 1509 N. Arizona Ave. Chandler, AZ 85225.  The outdoor show officially starts at Saturday, March 23rd at 7am and ends at 2pm, however there are always a few early birds.  The store, which is arizona's largest antiques and home decor superstore will open at 9am and every space will have at least a 10% discount.  If you're in the area, you don't want to miss this!  We usually sell out by the end of the day, so come early for best selection.  Hope to see you there.  Love, Kelly.

A Roll-Top Candy Desk

A friend of mine named Merilee, a wonderful mother and gifted teacher, was preparing for her youngest son's wedding.  Merilee was in charge of many details, including a candy stand at the reception.

The space for her candy arrangement was near the entrance of the home, so she had to find something that would fit just right in between the front door and hallway.

She was thinking maybe a dresser would work, but everything was too big . . . until we spotted this roll-rop desk.

It was a bit beat-up, but we both saw the potential immediately.

A little slap of turquoise paint and it turned out perfect.  

I think it's pretty romantic and I love that it had multiple levels.  

She even matched the candy with the bride's colors; turquoise and orange.

Great job, Merilee.

Thank heavens for nice people

I have so many blessings, some days I can’t keep count.  

To start, I love people.

I love all sorts of people.  

It is so nice meeting people; those of you who shop thrift stores and we casually talk, someone I bump into while moving furniture into Qcumberz who starts up a conversation about vintage finds or getting an email from someone who's read The Memory Catcher.

Thank heavens for friendly people.

Like Norma.  

Kelly and I met Norma two years ago on our first trip to Qcumberz.  We just kinda bumped into one another and started talking.  Norma stays in touch through our blog and a few weeks ago, she invited us to lunch.  We caught up on things we've found thrifting and the idea of Norma opening up her own space at an antique mall, but mostly we talked about life and the love of our families.  I felt wrapped in friendship with these two ladies and appreciated Norma's sweet invitation.

Or, like Kathy. 

Kathy is from San Diego and had read The Memory Catcher.  On a trip to Arizona to attend a wedding, she contacted my mom through her website (sarahhinze.com) and asked to meet with her.  Kathy has a beautiful family and a deep understanding of just how special her kids are.  I observed how she mothered with such sweet mannerisms and I must say, I was deeply touched.

Or like Ted and Rex.

I have been looking for a good videographer to help me with make a short you-tube video about what I do (you know, shop trash, re-do stuff, love trash,write about angels, etc).  Do you know how hard it is to find a good video guy!  Well, after a lengthy search, I was led to these two guys through a facebook friend.  Ted and Rex are brothers and the most talented professional  camera/video guys I know.  They had all sorts of ideas, they were amazing with my kids and through their inspiration, I think my video is going to turn out great.  I'll let you know when it's all finished.

Or like Nancy.

Several months ago, I met an amazing woman while standing in line at Costco.  She commented on how cute my kids are, how quickly time goes and I asked a few questions about her family and children.  She told me her children were grown and she loved being a Grandma.  Before we knew it, she had walked me to my car and was helping me put my groceries in the back of my truck.  I shared my number and told her to contact me so I could  give her a copy of The Memory Catcher.  Nancy was able to read The Memory Catcher and we have stayed in touch.  About a month ago after my publisher sent back the manuscript My Dear Lucy with a mountain full of edits, I blogged about how overwhelmed I was.  You can read about that here.  Editing is not my thing, although I was willing to to put my best effort forward.  When Nancy read about my predicament  she called and asked if she could help.
"I have a week off work and love editing.  I have experience and want to edit your book for you," she said.
I felt a warmth come over me and I knew she had been sent to me as a gift.  She has now completed the manuscript and the edits are amazing.  I'm going through a final read, adding a bit more history and will hopefully send it out to my publisher in about a week.

Or like Gilberto.

Gilberto is a friend from church whom I've known for years.  Gilberto and his family moved to another town and we ran into each other at a church Christmas party last year. He and his wife asked how I was doing and I mentioned my book The Memory Catcher.  We had a nice conversation and caught up on how our families are doing.  The next day, Gilberto called me and said he and his wife were impressed they should help me with a website.  Gilberto has so much talent and ideas of how to help me promote my blog, book and website.  He is working diligently and is an answer to my prayers.

Speaking of amazing people, the counselor surprised me on the way home from work a few days ago.  He stopped by the local Deseret Bookstore and took a few pictures of The Memory Catcher sitting there on the shelf.

We never know when we will be an answer to someone's prayer or spread sunshine by the way we live our lives.  When you have an idea to help someone or reach out, do it.  God answers prayers through other people.  Thank you to so many of you have touched mine and made me a better person.

Tiffany Blue

As a writer, color fascinates me because color can be interpreted through words; descriptive, artistic, beautiful words. Color can be a mood or an emotion.  Color is an expression for the artist in all of us.

Take blue, for example.

There are so many shades of blue, especially when it comes to paint.

Some blues are elegant

while others are retro.

Some blues are moody

while others are beachy.

Some are simple

while others are rich.

Like a Tiffany blue.  

So happy to be in the Mesa Tribune newspaper promoting my book The Memory Catcher; 

an inspiring true story about my mom author and researcher Sarah Hinze.  

We even had a photo shoot.  Isn't my mom beautiful!

Click here to read the article in the Mesa Tribune written by the talented Cecily Markland.

My mom has been featured before in the Mesa Tribune.  To read more about her work, click here.  You can watch The Memory Catcher video by clicking here.

Linking up to:

Vintage Ties

I've had a love affair with vintage ties for a long time.  As a teenager, I would rummage through my dad’s ties, pick out the funkiest one and use it as a bandanna in my hair or a sash around my waist. 

When I got old enough to start shopping at thrift store’s, I would bring home vintage ties, give them to my dad, but then borrow them from time to time for my own fashion adventures. 

   

After the counselor and I were married, I started bringing home vintage ties for him.  He’ll wear just about anything I find.  He’s cool like that.

When my son’s wanted to started wearing ties to church, I told them “Go pick out one from your Dad’s closet.”  Would you believe they each came out with a vintage tie?  These boy’s are after my own heart. 

I've told them I'd buy them a new tie of their own, but they want to stick with their dad's vintage ties.

I love me a man in anything Armani.  This vintage Armani tie was a great find for $2.99.

Thanks for letting me borrow your tie, babe!