We have been blessed with such great friends in our ward since we moved to California. This is a picture of Celeste Bowler. Her husband has been away for a few weeks and we were babysitting her on Sunday. Spencer and Michaela both leaned over to me during church at different times to see if we could invite Celeste for dinner.

Sunday I received another calling in addition to teaching primary. The Relief Society has requested that I serve on the Enrichment Committee. How do they find out these things? Actually, the Bishop asked if I was overburdened. Little did he know that I would spend time with the Enrichment Counselor, Jeanette Calloway and the Enrichment Leader, Karen Smith for my entertainment. They are amazingly talented women. Remind me of some of my dear book club members from home.

doesn't mind carrying a few choice pieces of baggage so she has a conversation starter in almost any social situation... -The Story People


Michaela & Celeste/Storm & Dorothy

Tates had a very nice weekend. On Friday, we took the kids to Disneyland. We bought annual SoCal passes in April and it has become our favorite "cheap" family night. My favorite moment of the night was when Spencer rode Thunder Mountain for Dad. This is Doug's favorite ride and he rarely gets to ride because Spence and Michaela have not reached their "thrill seeking" phase yet. Spence committed to ride if he could "cling" to me. He ducked his head under my arm and kept his eyes closed most of the ride. When we got off, he tried to convince Michaela that it wasn't that bad and she should try it.

Saturday, we cleaned most of the morning and ran errands in the afternoon. When we arrived home, on our doorstep were two cases of Red Grapefruit Fruit Naturals with a note from the "Grapefruit Bandit." I have become addicted to these grapefruit cups. It is like having candy (which I am not having for a month based on the bet with the kids) without the guilt. Our wonderful friend, Celeste Bowler, sent them. I am blessed with wonderful friends in this new ward.

I am reading a great book called "Putting a Face on Grace: Living a Life Worth Passing On." It has really made me think. The front cover: It's a living, breathing testament to the depth of God's love. You don't deserve it, but you've got it. So, what are you doing with God's amazing grace? It is mostly anecdotal but there are some beautiful reminders the unconditional loving quality of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. From the book, "We are not called to just bathe in grace: we are called to shower it upon others."

Enough for now...Love to all.

Okay, the blogging begins. We had a great time last night Trick or Treating. Spencer and Michaela bags were so heavy, they somehow convinced me to carry them. I would wait on the sidewalk as they brought their candy. Michaela told me it was a good idea for me to set the bags down and rest while they were up getting the candy. Please see my name under the definition of "Helicopter Mom" in the dictionary.

Today begins an exciting challenge at the Tate Home. A few weeks ago Michaela challenged me to go without Diet Coke for a month. I agreed but she had to reciprocate by refraining from candy for a month. She agreed until I reminded her Halloween would fall in her month. We decided to wait until today. So after gourging last night on candy and diet coke like a couple of drunks entering rehab, we have begun. I guess I was truly addicted. I have thought longingly about Diet Coke at least 10 times this morning.

Spencer has joined the challenge but only after being lured in with a prize of a Gameboy game if he makes it the entire month.

Doug has chosen not to participate. In fact we has drinking a warm Diet Coke for breakfast this morning. Torture...

Love to All