Talk to Me Tuesday, Marie Ricks

Meet Marie Ricks, founder of House of Order. She’s an author and professional organizer. Marie is all sorts of amazing, and a fountain of knowledge. If you have a goal to simplify – she’s your lady! If you ever have the opportunity to hear her speak – take it! We are honored that she was willing to share some of her thoughts and advice with our readers! Talk about “Pearls”… this woman’s got ‘em!  Enjoy!


Pearls: What does it mean to be a “Professional Organizer”?

Marie: A professional organizer helps people find order in their homes and their workplaces. Often, it is a simple change in routine. Other times it is reordering their work spaces to accommodate their personal style. Lastly, it usually means a change in their routines.
It is an occupation that I love and that is stimulating because everyone’s needs, styles, and challenges are so different.

Pearls: You obviously enjoy it and are amazing at it, but what got you into it?

Marie: I began organizing in 1986 when I began teaching organization classes at local community center. Since then I teach, write, and do personal organization coaching. I’ve seen a lot of rubble, trash, and treasures. I’ve helped people decide what can go, what must go, and what can and should be saved.


Pearls: Of all the areas to be organized… self, family, home… which do you think it most important, and why?

Marie: Organizing yourself is always the first step, whether or not it is most important. Unless you conquered your personal organization, you can’t get the cooperation of anyone else.
The first place to start is making your bed every morning. Not because making a bed, in and of itself, is important, but all change requires a shift in habit.
I start with my clients with bed making and then we work outward from the master bedroom to the home office and then the kitchen and then to the public areas of the house and then to the hidden corners.

Pearls: Will you give us a couple of tips on cleaning our kitchens?

Marie: Yes: finish. And finish fixing the meal before you begin serving it. This means getting the cabinets cleared and wiped down, the preparation dishes in the  sink soaking or in the dishwasher. It means finishing enough that you eat with your family, not begin your meal when they are eating dessert. Remember, you are not the maid.
Then, after the meal, don’t leave the kitchen until you have finished cleaning up from the current meal (hopefully with the help of one other person). There is no worse work than work done alone.


 Pearls: How can being organized increase our spirituality?

Marie: Because being organized makes you nice to be around.

Pearls: Besides organizing, what else do you enjoy doing?

Marie: I like to tackle hard things. I just finished learning about psychology statistics and found that doing so has increased my world into new dimensions I didn’t know existed.

Pearls: How do you maintain your relationship with Heavenly Father?

Marie: I have a daily morning routine of prayer, scripture study, journaling and exercising (without headphones so I can listen for answers). It has been the mainstay of my life to do what He needs first and do what else needs doing next.

Pearls: What do you think is most important to teach our children so that they can be spiritually strong in this chaotic world?

Marie: The routines of personal prayer, personal scripture study, personal journaling (all of these with a lot of support and supervision when they are young). Then lay the foundation with family prayer and family home evening. Finally, set the example with temple attendance. What you do and what you are is what they will do and what they will become.
With these routines, they will be safe and strong.

Pearls: Do you currently have a ward calling? What is it? What is one suggestion you have for anyone who may ever receive that calling?

Marie: I am a visiting teaching supervisor in my ward and a visiting teacher. I currently serve with my husband at the Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah where he serves as a branch presidency member in a Thai/English branch, which means we don’t attend our home ward but are at the MTC on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.
If at all possible, accept each and every calling you receive. They are from God and will help you grow up and out in ways you could never dream.

Pearls: What’s your favorite scripture, and why?

Marie: “Oh, be wise. What can I say more?” Jacob 6:12 This scripture says all I want to be and still am not. It is encouraging and yet direct. It gives me hope!

For more tips, and information on organizing your life, follow Marie on Facebook and visit the House of Order website!

Talk to me Tuesday- Tiffany Bird

Meet Tiffany from Simply Modern Mom . She is a very talented mother of 2 beautiful (soon to be 3) little girls, that was looking for more than her motherly duties!  Check out how she shares how to make the most out of our lives by simplifying it! She shares tips on how to make crafts, how to simplify throwing a party for kids, and even how to make traveling with kids more enjoyable!  Don't forget to look into her new challenge of 2011: Glimpse into Motherhood!

 
Pearls: First, How did you come up with Simply Modern Mom? 



Tiffany: After adjusting to being a mother of two, I came to the realization that I spent most of my days feeding people and changing diapers. I knew that was part of being a mother, but I also knew I had more in me as a woman. I had a degree in print journalism and loved writing. So I first started Simply Modern Mom as a way to share my crafty ideas. And since there were a ton of crafty sites out there, I decided to change focus to something I was passionate about and knew could help others. So I redirected Simply Modern Mom to become a site that simplified the lives of modern moms. I never did give up the crafty stuff, I just added the mom stuff on top of it.



Easter Tutorial: Check out her weekly craft tutorial on Tiffany's blog!



Pearls: Last year you did a '52 dates' challenge, What did you learn from that experience and any tips for those that would want to try it out?

Tiffany: Project 52: Date Nights was one of the best things we've done for our marriage. It was an entire year of getting to know each other and coming up with weekly fun yet simple dates we did mostly at home. And best of all, we came out in the end with 52 wonderful date memories from last year. We learned so much about each other even though we've been married for a few years now. And it was our time to spend alone with each other, not having to worry about the kids. And my tip for those who want to try it would be to not give up. There will be weeks when both of your schedules are just insane and can't seem to fit in a date. Or you end up missing a date here or there. That's OK. Just pick it back up and keep going with it. It shows how much you value time with each other. And remember to keep it simple.

Pearls: What specials/ focuses are you doing on the blog this year?

Tiffany: I am always focused on creating posts that help simplify our busy lives with tips and lists. I am also often sharing tutorials of things I've made. This year, my big thing will be the reveal of my girls' bedroom makeover. And the Project 52 I am doing this year is a photography goal of featuring one photo a week of my Glimpse Into Motherhood.

Pearls: What do you enjoy most about blogging @ Simply Modern Mom?

Tiffany: Connecting with other mothers and getting to know my readers. I love it when people leave comments and share their ideas and stories with me. And whenever I receive personal emails from readers giving me feedback it makes my day.

Pearls: What are 3 things you like to do, 'just for you'?

Tiffany: (1) hang out with good friends (2) create and craft (3) learning and trying new things


Pearls: Do you have any tips on how to keep the spirit in your home on a daily basis?

Tiffany: Pray. Lots of praying. It's the only times when I can get my kids to be kind of reverent in our home. And I am also not afraid to talk about gospel topics with my children. This helps them to apply what they learned at church on Sunday. We would take what they learned on Sunday and bring it up here and there, without being overbearing, throughout the week.


Pearls: What are some things that you do with your girls to help them begin their testimony building?

Tiffany: I think one of the best ways for children, or anyone, to develop testimonies is to try to provide spiritual experiences. Give them opportunities to feel the spirit and then help them identify that it's the spirit they are feeling. For example, we recently had the rare opportunity to attend the open house of the newly remodeled Atlanta Temple. We took our kids there and they were able to walk through the inside of a temple. I don't think children are ever too young to create spiritual memories. 


Don't forget to visit Tiffany at Simply Modern Mom!

Talk to me Tuesday, Naomi Masina

Meet Naomi Masina! She is an incredibly successful woman – beautiful children, healthy marriage, talented photographer, and an inspiration to all who meet her! We are thrilled that she agreed to be interrogated interviewed for Pearls! Enjoy!




Pearls: How long have you been in the Photography industry?
Naomi: Since I can remember I have been drawn to art and photography.  About 3 years ago, I finally got the nerve to seriously try to make a go of photography.  It went from an enjoyable interest to an intense obsession.  Making the decision to take that first step was the hardest part.  Once you know what you want in life, everything else seems to fall into place.  Not that it hasn't been a ton of work.  I've just enjoyed every moment of it. 


Pearls: What do you love most about being a photographer?

Naomi: Everything.  Anything.  The people are truly the best part of being a  photographer.  I love people watching, and photography is just another form of people watching for me...a more personal and involved method.  I photograph many people I know, but many more that I have never laid eyes on before the day of the shoot.  Within a few minutes I get to be apart of their lives, relationships, and talents.  Photography for me is very personal, and the best experiences are always with someone who can open up and relax.  I love authenticity.  I love faces and expressions.  I love stories, and connections.  I pay close attention to relationships and interactions and try to photograph people as they really are.  If you can strip away all the things that can get in the way of real expressions, like our shyness, awkwardness, nervousness, you really start seeing a persons true self and that is always beautiful.


Pearls: What suggestions do you have for those getting their photos taken? What can they do to look nice and natural in their photos?

Naomi: Ignore the camera!  I know that's next to impossible, but think of the  person behind the camera and not just the large black square pointed at you.  If you can find a way to connect with something: a thought, a person, a conversation while you are being photographed it will show in the image.  Life and energy come through the interactions we are making.  If you aren't thinking anything it will show on your face.  If you are thinking....OH..this is awful, and I can't wait for it to be over....it's going to show on your face.  If you are thinking...I'm fabulous.  My fiance is HOT.  I love glazed donuts.  The energy will show in your eyes...and that's always more interesting and you're guaranteed to like those pictures 100% better. 


Pearls: How do you balance your professional life and your home life as a mother and wife?

Naomi: It's not always been easy to balance my work.  It is my single biggest challenge.  I'm sure it's like this for most of us.  We love our children and we love our husbands.  We try to find something to define our individuality and yet there isn't a part of us that isn't tied to our families.  I stopped trying to separate my  professional life and my personal life.  I am a wife and a mother first.  I've learned it's the job that I love the most, and makes me the happiest.  Photography is such a gift in my life, and I make sacrifices to continue to develop and grow.  I do all that I can to make sure those sacrifices are not at the expense of my kids and my husband.  There is always give and take.  I used to get very little sleep, and I've stopped doing that.  I out source some of my work flow.  I have wonderful assistants, and I do not keep a perfect house.  It's a personal thing for all of us, and the best advice I can give is to follow your heart.  You know when things are out of balance.  It's always going to happen.  If you feel unhappy, you can make adjustments.  Trust yourself and listen. 


Pearls: What do you feel is the most important thing to teach your children in this world of chaos?

Naomi: Children need to know they have a loving Heavenly Father who knows and cares about them as an individual, that they are capable of great things and we all make mistakes.  When they are young and we are in control of most of of the things that go on in their lives, we can and should teach them the great power of natural consequences.  If they can learn to feel the results of their own choices for good or for bad then the biggest lesson in life has already hit home. 


Pearls: Do you have any tips for a healthy marriage?

Naomi: I'm married to my best friend.  Respect each other.  Support one another.  Laugh a lot.  Go on dates.  Say sorry.  Forgive quickly.  Hold hands.  Let them always know how lucky you feel to have them.  It's not like you have to be gushing love all the time, but everyone likes to feel appreciated. 


Pearls: How do you maintain a relationship with Heavenly Father?

Naomi: I have to work at it.  I know that when there is a distance felt between me and Heavenly Father....it's my fault.  I guess that never makes me feel better in the beginning, but I try to remember that he is waiting for me, not begrudging my weakness.  Prayer is essential and nothing makes me feel more connected than quiet scripture study.  This year I've tried to make it to the temple at least twice a month and it's been such a great experience for me.


Pearls: Do you have a ward calling? What is it? What is one suggestion you have for anyone else who may ever get that calling?

Naomi: I don't have a ward calling right now, but I do serve on the Stake Primary Presidency Board.  I oversee all of the Nurseries in our Stake.  It is the best calling I have had in years.   I know how challenging and sometimes overwhelming nursery can be.  I have learned so much from the wonderful teachers who work with us.  We are building the foundation to a child's church education.  It's not daycare.  It's so much more than play time.   Understanding that your setting the stage for their primary experience is a really special thing.  Love the kids, get to know each of them individually, and I promise you will find joy in your calling.  Nursery Teachers ROCK!  I love you ALL!!


Pearls: You are obviously a successful photographer, you’ve done shoots with celebrities, and have had your work in various magazines like DanceSPIRIT and LatterDay Bride, what are a few suggestions you have for those who may be aspiring to be a photographer by profession? 

Naomi: Learn your craft.  If you want to be called a professional then approach it with pride and always strive to do your best.  Improve in any way you can.  It may seem overwhelming, but day by day your skill will improve and your knowledge will grow.  Don't be afraid to ask for help and don't let fear stop you from trying.  Treat each client like they are your only client and provide the best service possible.  Strive to develop and give your own unique view on life.  Everyone's path is different and you're experience is going to be custom fit for you and your dreams.  Try not to look too much at other peoples paths to define your own!  Yours will be so much better, because it is yours.

You can find more stunning work by Naomi at omiphoto.com and naomimasinaphotography.blogspot.com

Talk to me Tuesday-Marie Holleman

Today, we are lucky to hear from an amazing woman, mother and author. She is also the brains behind a great site called the Mother Myths Tribe. Feel free to visit her site HERE after reading her interview.

Pearls: First off, what exactly is the "Mother Myths Tribe", and what inspired you to start it?

Marie: Mother Myths Tribe is a place where moms can come together and talk about the good things and the hard things about motherhood. Just being totally open and authentic with out any fear of judgement. What I have learned about motherhood is that it is the greatest accelerator for learning and growing. That all of the hard things about motherhood are given to us so we can learn from them and become more than we would have been with out them.

I started by writing a book called "Confessions of the Everyday Mother" which is just a collection of all my experiences as a mother. Through writing that book I started to feel what I now know as my "soul purpose". In starting a website for moms at first I thought it was just about giving moms a place to chat, but what I came to realize is that I feel deeply connected to serving those moms who feel like they are drowning in motherhood.

Not every mother feels that way, but between cleaning, cooking teaching wiping noses and trying to be everything to everyone, a lot of mothers get lost. They start to see the challenges as a sign that they are not good enough, and looking around see perfection in everyone else but themselves, and start to question whether or not they are really doing what God would want them to do or if they are just a big failure. They see the hard times as a sign of their weakness, where as I see them as a chance for us to just get stronger. Those mothers are the ones who are in my "tribe". Through the things I have learned, I hope to give other mothers the hope that they can make it through, the voice to speak their truth, the tools to learn what to do with the hard times and the knowledge that they are not alone.

Pearls: What do you think is a myth that many women have come to believe?

Marie: Oh man! There are so many....the biggest one is that there is such a thing as perfection (in this mortal life anyways and especially in motherhood). I don't believe in perfection in motherhood, and I don't believe in the word failure. Everything is just a stepping stone and a chance to learn and move forward. So many times we are striving for perfection in motherhood and when we don't make it we just decide we have failed. When in reality, we are striving for something that doesn't exist and when we decide we are a failure we miss the chance to learn what Heavenly Father is REALLY trying to teach us.

Pearls: What are 3 things you love about Texas?

Marie: I love a LOT of things about Texas, one is the weather. Some people hate how hot it gets, but I LOVE the heat and I love the winters here.

I LOVE the bluebonnets in the spring!

Most of what I love about Texas is that my life is here. My husband loves his job, we have great friends here, and we are here.

Pearls: Something you dislike about Texas?

Marie: I don't like the mosquito's! But that's not just in Texas, and I miss those who aren't here....

Pearls: What are some of your hobbies and when do you find the time to do them?

Marie: Most moms (and people in general) see their time in scarcity. I on the other hand have an ABUNDANCE of time, and I still don't know how....

I LOVE TV and movies. I know its silly, but I think in another life I would be a movie and TV producer and writer. I love watching how they lay out story lines, and the camera angles. I love critiquing them and deciding how they could make them even better. I have always wanted to start a consulting company where I tell them how to tweak their movies and TV story lines and "fix" them.

I love to go out to eat, I love girls night outs, I love photography and video editing. A lot of it I do when they are napping or sleeping at night, somethings I can do with them, like photography and video editing, and as for the rest I make sure that make a little time for me. You cant serve from an empty pitcher so I make sure mine is full....

Pearls: What are some things that you do everyday to keep the spirit in your home?

Marie: I will say I am not perfect at this, but things we do are reading scriptures at night, and praying in the car on the way to school. The best advice I ever got about this was to make sure that Jesus Christ was a part of every day conversation. Sometimes we think we have to be careful when using His name so we end up not using it often, but I add it in as we talk about bugs, and the weather, and how grateful I am that Jesus gave me them, and about kindness, and how Jesus gave them their fingers.

Pearls: What is something interesting about yourself? ( ex. quirks, things you like or dislike, clothing you like to wear)

Marie: Quirks....hmmmm.....I don't love pajamas, so 90% of the time my kids wear their clothes for the next day to bed....why make more laundry and take more time for just a few hours of sleeping right? Most people think that's weird....

I also am coaching for a company called called Paid to Play Academy for 5 hours a week which I LOVE, and started another website and piece of this puzzle called Revolution Motherhood. It is always growing and expanding, it's fun and crazy as I just keep moving forward and following this path and LIVING my life. Where as I used to just let my life live me.

Pearls: Where is your favorite spot in the whole world?

Marie: I love a lot of places and hope to see the whole world so I can really decide, but honestly, I do just LOVE my house.

Pearls: Do you have a church calling? If so, what is it?

Marie: I just got called to teach the 14 yr old kids Sunday school. I was in primary, and will really miss my class, but I'm excited to connect with this new group of kids.

Pearls: How do you balance life with 4 kids, blogging, hobbies, church, mothering, school, etc...?

Marie: I take things as they come and live in the moment. Otherwise I am so overwhelmed thinking about the past and worrying about the future. I have an amazing support group, especially my husband and kids, and I know that anything that is handed to me I can conquer with my best friend....Jesus Christ. I know it sounds cheesy and over said, but I have had experience after experience, especially lately that have just reminded me that I get to rely on Him and Him alone! motherhood is part of His plan and He has set it up so that we can become exactly who He planned us to be through it! Even and especially THROUGH the juggling and balancing act called motherhood and life!

Talk to Me Tuesday, April Durham

Meet April, of April Showers Design Studio! We were going to save this interview until the month of April, for kicks, but we just couldn’t wait! April is a ridiculously talented web/blog designer who even offers workshops where she generously shares her knowledge! She’s brilliant, funny and super cute to boot! know you’re gonna like this… enjoy!
 
   

Pearls: Your blog designs are stunning, where/how did you learn to create such amazing layouts?

April: Awh, thanks!  I am pretty much just self-taught!  I create my layouts in Photoshop and Googled the rest of my way through everything I needed to know! LOL!

Pearls: There is so much to know about blog design and html... if someone were just starting to dabble in it, which of your workshops would you recommend?

April: Oh, I think "How to Design Your Own Blog" for either Blogger or Wordpress is perfect!  Sometimes I forget that bloggers really are newbies when it comes to design, so I tend to cover a lot of material and go fast.  Luckily the video is available after class, ha, ha!

Pearls: What is one thing (or two or three) every blogger should know?

April: Content is key.  No matter how great your design is, the blog posts should be  interesting, intriguing, or at least grammatically correct!  Also, de-clutter your blog like you would de-clutter your home. (Decrease sidebar widgets, blinking thing, crazy fonts, etc...)  Last tip - keep it fun.  If you end up getting sponsors or getting paid to blog, the most important thing is that you LIKE what you do.  So never make it a chore!

Pearls: Besides designing blogs, what else do you enjoy doing?
April: Oh, before I started working from home I had "hobbies." LOL!  The hubbs and I love to play tennis and workout at the gym.  On a day (or few hours) off you can find me shopping for cute clothes and accessories, going to the movies, going out to dinner...  But if I could take a vacation, we would use our SCUBA certs and go dive somewhere! (We really need to move somewhere with an ocean!)


Pearls:Do you have a ward calling? What is it? What is one suggestion you have for anyone else who may ever get that calling?
April: I actually don't right now!  I'm in a pretty new ward!  Even if I got one though, my schedule is so overwhelming right now I'd fail epically! LOL! I used to be a Young Women's advisor, and my suggestion for anyone else who gets that calling is to ENJOY it!  It's probably one of the most fun callings you could have - and when you go over to the nursery instead....you'll know why :P

Pearls:How do you find balance between work, being a wife and having a social life?
April: I'm not very good at balancing, but luckily those three things are all I really have to deal with.  I can't imagine throwing KIDS in there yet! (Though I would still LOVE IT!)  I just have to tell myself that no matter HOW much work I have, my husband and everything in the "real world" (i.e. not online) is more important than cyber space.

Pearls:Do you have any suggestions for a healthy marriage?
April: Forgiveness and compassion are overly used words, but honestly have saved our marriage amidst many horrible things that have happened in our lives.  Always meet your spouse with compassion and kindness, rather than hostility - and remember that there is nothing that can't be forgiven.  Marriage means falling in love over and over again with the same person! Oh, and read "The Love Dare."  It's GOOD.


Pearls: Where would your dream vacation be?
April: We have both been a lot of places - Paris, Hawaii, Belize, etc... but I think our favorite destinations are always tropical.  Like I said, we haven't had a chance to use our SCUBA gear yet!

Pearls: One thing we love about you is that not only are you ridiculously good-looking, but you know it. How can women develop a higher self esteem and not allow media to dictate how they should look?

April: *hairflip* LOL!  Well, hopefully my readers know that I'm not 100% serious when I say things like that!  I feel like women are afraid of being too "vain" or "narcissistic" especially in this age where everything online is "ME! ME! ME!" (i.e. Facebook) - but I think all women should embrace their OWN unique beauty and display it in a way that THEY see fit.  Because in the end, our blogs and our Facebook, and everything we are online IS the media.  So if we can portray beauty in different lights, then future generations will see that it's okay to be comfortable in your own skin and celebrate how different we all are.

Pearls: How do you maintain your relationship with Heavenly Father?
April: I think the only way to do that is through Prayer. Whether your faith is faltering, or is perfectly strong - prayer is the one thing that connect you to Him personally.  I've had many times where my faith has wavered, or I got "mad" at the struggles in my life...  The only way I made it through was to pray - especially when I didn't want to!

Join April over at April Showers Design Studio and learn a thing or two (or 20!)

Talk To Me Tuesday, Kim West

Meet Kim "Kimbo" West of A Girl and a Glue Gun! We were lucky enough to snag an interview with her, and I really think you're going to love it! I've been really excited to share it, and today is the day! Enjoy!









Pearls: Have you always been so funny?
Kim: always.

Pearls: Top 5 things you love about Idaho - Go!

Kim:...




thinking...









still thinking... unlimited supply of free potatoes? Growing up all I wanted was out. and now I would cry to think of moving anywhere else. I love it. perfect place to raise a kid. nice and boring and watch out..you can't go anywhere in your pjs cause you will run into everyone you know...and a few people who know your mama.

this is not me in the picture..I got this from google..and didn't even realize a person was standing there.

(and right up the street from this giant potato are the best oreo shakes!)

but if I have to say five SPECIFIC THINGS:
1. eastern Idaho state fair
2. the people here are AWESOME
3. ALL my family lives here (oh...i should have put that one first)
4. I was serious about the free potatoes.....
5. you can drive like an hour in every direction and hit a temple.


Pearls: Tell us about a time you had to do something really hard.

Kim: it's called labor...3 times.
okay...do you want to know something that was REALLY hard?
it's called children....3 of them.
in all reality...we had to commute for almost 2 years (economy crap). THAT WAS HARD! I went two weeks without the man. the whole time we just kept thinking why? this stinks. but now looking back...we see what a blessing it was (don't ya hate that!) how much we grew...how much we took for granted...and appreciation for each other. Which brought us to this quote that summarizes that dark period of our lives: (I should mention that its on a rejection letter you can click HERE to read that story)

ah. hit's home.

Pearls: What's one craft that can actually make a woman's life easier?

Kim: TOOT. did you hear that...I'm about to toot my own horn. Menu
boards=life changing. I love my menu board. I don't know how I functioned without it. serious.

I should also mention ANYTHING that keeps your kids quiet in church....(and I mean ANYTHING!) I've realized the majority of my crafts I make for my kids have this purpose in my mind. like THIS one

and THIS one and

THIS one

and THIS one

Toot.


Pearls: Do you have a ward calling? What is it? What is one suggestion you have for anyone else who may ever get that calling?

Kim: 2nd counselor in the primary presidency. (love love love) here's my suggestion: don't sweat the small stuff. at the beginning I would be copying and cutting and laminating all this awesome stuff and come loaded down with stuff for my sharing time. then my primary presidency brings in this little ball...and asked questions and threw it at them to catch. that's it. And the kids had so much fun with that stupid ball. primary kids don't care. (oh, that sounded bad...they care...they just don't notice if it took you 30 min or 3 days to do something) save your handouts for relief society.
(oh...and this is where i should mention sugardoodle. love me some sugardoodle.)


Pearls: How do you find balance in your life?

Kim: This one is super hard for me. I sometimes get so caught up in hot gluing crap and making things then my son comes in and asks to play candyland.....and I just feel like i'm so busy..I have to blog about this tomorrow..got to finish!!! argh! You just have to remember moderation in all things!!!!! I just keep thinking that my kids are growing so fast and I don't want to miss a thing. the glue gun can be unplugged.... (sidenote: next answer down fits here too.)


Pearls: How do you maintain a relationship with Heavenly Father?

Kim: I was reading the friend magazine awhile back...and they had a little thing about keeping the holy ghost with you..and one of the things mentioned was having a routine.

and I thought..what a weird thing to have in a kid's magazine (and I guess an adult magazine...I mean I was reading it too)
but the more I thought about it...the more it made sense to me. keep a schedule. wake up. read your scriptures..eat your marshmallow maties (I'm sure you all have fantastically wonderful breakfasts) get your kids off to school. check your email..go to the gym (you know..to work off the marshmallow goodness) come home...naptime for the babe....its a routine. I do it every morning.

Let me tell you the day I have the HARDEST time ..it's Saturday. SATURDAY! that used to be my favoritest day. but now...I sleep in an extra hour (or three)..I wake..I have all the kids home. just throws me off my game. I go the whole day without a schedule planned out....and when I'm ready to hit the hay (or sleep) I realize I have forgotten to read my scriptures....


Pearls: What's your favorite accessory?

Kim: does a wet wipe count? serious..I don' t know why I didn't have these in college. it cleans everything..in a pinch it can be a kleenex..washcloth...toilet paper...use it to dust...pooper scooper...they are awesome. I give some to my kids and they will go through and clean the whole house.


Pearls: Where is your dream vacation?

Kim: is this where I'm supposed to say anywhere with my kids...cause I'm not gonna. I want to go to Hawaii. lay on the beach...read a good book...and do nothing. I don't want to have to find someplace that cooks chicken nuggets (cause that's all the baby eats)...or constantly supervise to make sure no kids are drowning...or bring 3 shovels, 3 pails, 3 umbrellas to the beach so no one fights.

no kids.

awww. peace.

(disclaimer: I love my kids...even more than bloggin and chocolate (so very much) but you did say DREAM vacation!)

yes...these are quite possibly the best pictures I could get. nose picking and all.....

Pearls: What is the most important thing you hope to teach your children?
Kim: where do I even begin?

Let's keep it simple.

primary songs....

I am a child of God
Follow the prophet
Families are Forever
Love one Another
I'm trying to be like Jesus
and my personal favorite A Child's prayer


Pearls: What's one suggestion you have for a healthy marriage?

Kim: putting up with your husbands crap... oh. I mean date night. even if you are in your basement with microwave popcorn and a movie...spend time together with your man.

If you loved this, get to know Kim even better and go get your craft on (if that's your thing) at A Girl and a Glue Gun!

Talk To Me Tuesday, Lindsay Storrs

Lindsay Storrs is the KUTV Weekend Meteorologist here in Utah – but you won’t see her on TV until April! She very recently had her fourth child, a baby girl (their first!), and gets a little bit of a breather (if taking care of a newborn can be considered such!). I wanted to snag an interview from her for Pearls, and it worked out that she can’t really sleep anyway, so she agreed! I promised her I would correct her spelling and grammar so no one would really know just how sleep-deprived she is!
Pearls: How did you become the KUTV Weekend Meteorologist... and what does that mean?
Lindsay: A Meteorologist is someone who studies the atmosphere & then predicts what the weather will be like for the next several days. I have always had a love of weather from the time I was a little girl. In fact, I decided I was going to be a meteorologist when I was nine-years-old & never deviated from it. I really felt like it was one of my "callings" in life for some reason. Even when others told me I would never make it in the TV business, I felt a strong assurance from the Lord that it was something I was supposed to do. I went to BYU & received a degree in Broadcast Journalism & then afterward continued my education in Meteorology through USDA Graduate School in Washington DC. My first on-air job was in a little tiny town in Louisiana called Lake Charles. I worked for the Fox affiliate there as their Chief Meteorologist for three years. While I was there, I gave birth to my first son, Connor. When Connor was about 12-months-old, I was offered a job as the Weekend Meteorologist for the NBC affiliate in Reno, NV. Once there, I stated to feel the need to not only be a Meteorologist, but to be a stay-at-home mom to my son as well. I didn't know how to do both since my current work situation was forcing me to work 50+ hours a week most of the time. I had a serious heart-to-heart conversation with Heavenly Father about what I should do with my life. On one hand, I really felt like I was supposed to be a Meteorlogist. But, on the other hand, I really felt the need to be home with my son as well. I asked the Lord how I was supposed to do both. I instantly got a very strong answer. It was simply that I was to quit my job & move to Salt Lake. WHAT?!? It didn't even seem logical. I told my husband about the answer I had received & he instantly said, "Okay, let's go!" He was able to find a job in Salt Lake quickly & we made the move. When we had been here for a little more than a month, I got a call out of the blue from the News Director at KUTV. He had heard through the grapevine that I was living here & he offered me a part-time weekend job. That was almost seven years ago. I worked first as the Weekend Morning Meteorologist & then was moved to the Weekend Evening Shows a few years ago. It has been such a blessing to our family! I really feel like the Lord has made it possible for me to be both a Meteorologist & Mom at the same time.
Pearls: You’re always so cute, do you love it?
Lindsay: Thanks! Yes, I love doing it! In my opinion, it's the best job in the world! I love forecasting the weather & then being able to explain it to others. Plus, there aren't many jobs out there will allow you to be wrong & not get fired! ;)
Pearls: What are some of the difficulties of being a public figure?
Lindsay: Probably the hardest part is just knowing that you are being watched by others all the time. There have been many times when my kids have been acting up in public & I have been trying to discipline them, when someone will come up & say, "Aren't you that weathergirl from TV?" You know, after that, they went to all their friends and said, "Hey! You know that weathergirl from TV? Well, I saw her yelling at her kids the other day!"
Pearls: Besides talking about the weather, what else do you enjoy?
Lindsay: I love to just be with my family. They are a wild & crazy bunch, but we always have so much fun together. Besides that, I love to travel (but don't get to do it as much as I would like). I also enjoy blogging. Oh, and eating chocolate. Lots and lots of chocolate!
Pearls: How do you balance the different aspects of your life? (i.e home life, work, church callings?)
Lindsay: I just take it one day at a time. Some days are better than others. I am a big list maker. I love to be able to cross something off a list once it is completed. But, I know that I couldn't do everything I do without a supportive husband. There are times when I have to fill in for a co-workers while they are on vacation or sick. On weeks like that, he really steps up & does many of the things I can't get done. Without him, I don't think I could do it all.
Pearls: How do you find ways to stay close to Heavenly Father?
Lindsay: I think the most important way is to pray constantly. I try to talk to Heavenly Father throughout the day, not just morning & night. You don't have to be kneeling by your bed to talk to Him. I have found myself praying while I do the dishes, drive in the car--don't close your eyes for this one though :) -- or at my desk at work.
Pearls: In such a conflicting world, what do you feel is the most important thing to teach your children?
Lindsay: To have a testimony of Heavenly Father & Jesus Christ. If they believe in & have a love for them, I hope that they will WANT to make the right choices throughout their lives...not just because I told them to.

Talk to me Tuesday, Heather Mildenstein

Welcome to our new feature, Talk To Me Tuesday! Each Tuesday, we will have an interview with a new person of interest. We hope that you will enjoy our first interview this week with blogger, mother and photographer, Heather Mildenstein.


Pearls: How do you balance the different areas of your life? (ex. mother,
wife, blogger, photographer, church callings etc.)

Heather: I always put my family FIRST. If you do that and make it your #1 priority, things fall into place. Daily schedules and routines are very important, too. Even though my life is pretty chaotic, it's scaled down if I have a schedule, especially with kids. I only schedule photo shoots when my husband is home from work to watch Cole (my two yr. old). I'm a massage therapist on the side and strictly work Saturday mornings. Blogging is a a big part of my life, but not too big that I blog when I'm supposed to be being a mom. I write my posts at night after Cole is sleeping and set them to post in the morning. If I'm not feeling up to blogging that day, I just don't. My blog will still be there the next day, whether or not I blog every day. It's very important to do what you can do, and don't go overboard or outdo yourself.

Pearls: What is your least favorite job or chore? How do you try to make it
fun or manageable?

Heather: Bathrooms, FOR SURE! Just ask my husband. Matt is pretty good about cleaning, and we clean together often. I do a lot when he's not home, but he's a tiny bit of a cleaner person than me (so embarrassing, right?), so when we're together we split up rooms and just get the job done! I'll be honest, I'd rather be a fun mom and make good memories with my children than have a perfectly clean house. If you can do both, great! My son really likes "helping", so cleaning can be an activity for him, too!

Pearls: What is your favorite article of clothing and why?

Heather: In public, my jeans because I can dress them up or down (although I'm expecting in March and they're getting a BIT tight!). At home, my old high school shirts and sweats for lounging in. So comfy!

Pearls: How do you strive to keep the spirit with you throughout your busy day?

Heather: Matt and I make it a point to say family morning prayers with our son every day. That definitely helps.

(Heather has a cute Etsy shop where she sells posters like the one above at Kantan designs.)

Pearls: What is your favorite hobby?

Heather: I have so many! It really changes quite often! I really like thinking up business ideas (is that a hobby?) and helping friends get small businesses started. One hobby that I WANT to start is knitting. I love learning new things and want to be able to sit down and knit something neat!

Pearls: Have you had any tough moments lately that you would like to share?
How did you cope through them?

Heather: Tough moments happen ALL the time. I think everyone can relate. Some are bigger than others, but you just have to push though them. Make sure you're just doing what you're supposed to be doing, i.e. going to church, making time for your family, paying your tithing (SO IMPORTANT), etc, and things will pass. You just have to have faith.

Pearls: Is there something about you that you want people to know? (ex.
habits, favorite meals, something about your
children/animals....anything really.)

Heather: I love dirty mexican food, cooking, reading recipe books, and being a mom! Life is so good!


To read more about Heather, visit her at The Coterie Blog.
Please feel free to let us know who you would like to hear from on future Talk To Me Tuesdays and we will try to accommodate.