Our Corner

Spilling the Beans

2012-02-03T10:00:00.000-08:00

**************WARNING: LONG POST*******************
Well Life is about to get interesting. Before I start into the CHD Awareness Week next week. I wanted to give you all an update about whats going on with us. Last year James and I made a choice, one that wasn't easy. We deiced that it would be better if James were to go to school full time and get his degree done by April 2012. We moved forward with the plan and knew that James would soon need to quit his job at the printing division to pursue this. He started looking for jobs but couldn't find anything. the classes he needed to take to complete his degree were going to start cutting into James' work schedule. He talked with his boss to see if there was a way that he could come in later on some days to be able to take the class. But his boss said there was nothing they could do. It got to the point where James either needed to go back to school part time or quit his job. After a lot of thought,fasting, and prayer we decided that school was more important. So last May James put in his resignation. He continued to look for any job he could get as he continued to go to school. We had quite a bit of money saved up and had payed off a good chunk of our debt so we weren't to worried. As the year went on though James still couldn't find a job. He was getting turned away from places like Cal Ranch, McDonald's, Wendy's, Burger King even Subway. He applied for everything he could find, but still wasn't getting anything. Anytime he got an interview (which were few and far between themselves) we thought maybe this time. Only to get a "your not qualified/what we have in mind for this job" or no return call at all. James pressed forward with school. He completed all his Medical Assisting classes and was ready for his externship. LDS Business College has been SO great to help us out. I was able to get extra hours here and there to earn more money and James' Practicum Coordinator got him set up for his externship really fast...and in OGDEN! We were sure that this was going to be his big break. Which was good because our saved up money was running out. He completed his 180 hours at his externship with Ogden Clinic as fast as he could. Working full 8 hour shifts M-F treating it just like any other job. He completed his hours the day after new years. We were excited to see what his manager at Ogden Clinic had to say when James took him his hours sheet to sign off on. We were a little disappointed that all he said was thank you and Good Luck. After that we were desperate. We were 2 months behind on our mortgage payment and knew that if we couldn't get some sort of help that we were going to be either foreclosing on our home or filing for bankruptcy. Either way we were going to be in James parents basement and with our baby on it's way we were starting to get frustrated and stressed as well. James was heading to either Nikki's or Mom and Dad A.'s to apply for jobs. He continued to apply for every possible job he could including for Medical Assisting. He even applied for a drilling company, I cant remember the name of it. 2 weeks ago James and I were just sitting watching TV when he got a call. When he didn't come back for a long time my silly pregnancy hormones started coming up with some pretty elaborate reasons why. Finally I went to find him. he was just getting off the phone when I found him. He told me he just had a phone interview for a Medical Assisting job for the new hospital in Cedar City. We've been down that road before though and we didn't get our hopes up. The next day I got a call from James while I was at work. He asked if there was a chance I could take the next day off so I could go with him to Cedar City for a 2nd job interview. A few minutes later after James and I hung up, he called me back and said that he just got a call from the hospital in St. George and they wanted him to come down for an interview too. I talked to my boss, told him our situation. After changing around my employees schedule we figured that it wouldn't hurt for me to take the day off. So I reserved a hotel for us and after a lot of planning and help from family. That Tuesday night James came and picked me up and we were off to St. George. The interview in St. George was a bust. It was for a PRN job part time and on call. but the interview in Cedar City when REALLY well. After we got back from his interviews, we just got back into life again. James wanted that job but pretty much ruled it out. Almost a week after he had his interview though he got a call and they offered him the job. At first we were shocked, I mean after so many No's it's a little weird to finally get a Yes. They asked if James could come down to fill our his paperwork and get updated immunizations. So we packed another over night bag and headed down Friday. We got a chance to look at some apartments and duplex's for rent. We talked to a Realtor who showed us a cute duplex for rent. We started to feel better and better about the whole situation. Still very scared but at least a little more confident. Saturday morning we looked around a bit more but headed home around 10:30. This past week we have been tying up loose ends for James, figuring out how he can finish his schooling and still graduate from LDSBC and ...well pretty much everything. So needless to say this week has been rough on both of us. But we are winding down to the end. James leaves tomorrow to move in with my Uncle Glenn and I will be staying up here in Salt Lake to help make a little extra money so when James does find a place down there for us we'll have the deposit and first months rent. We are thinking it will only be for a month and by March I should be down there with him. He will be back up in a couple weeks for Presidents day and his birthday. but I am going to miss him so much. I cant even think about it right now or else I get really sad and start to cry. Which I know is probably a lot to do with the pregnancy. But I really am going to miss my wonderful husband. I am excited for this new job and the chance he gets to jump into his career feet first and I wouldn't ever want to hinder him from following his dreams. Our time away no matter how hard it's going to be will be short and is for a greater good. :) Well if you made it to the end of this I commend you. :) And remember if your ever in the Cedar City/St. George area come on by for a visit cause we would love to see you.

3rd Annual CHD Awareness Week

2012-01-30T11:50:00.001-08:00

I know I haven't been blogging a lot and I soon hope to tell you more about why and what has been going on with us. But that's a long post for a different time. This post is to remind you and start everyone thinking about our upcoming CHD Awareness Week. I will be doing the regular post to tell you more about CHD as well as some of the newest advances in medicine to help these little heart hero's. I will also give you an update on Abby and her condition as well as a year in review of what she has been through...which has been a lot. I will still have a contest which I have changed and perfected since last year so stay tuned for that. This is going to be another great year with some great information about CHD hero's and angels. Until then Please take a look at the Petition to the right of the screen. This is a petition my sister in law is trying to get approved to have Pulse Ox test be mandatory in all Utah hospitals, so that CHD can be detected early. The petition gives more information and I will be doing a whole post about Pulse Ox and the benefits.

Still Here

2012-01-20T09:04:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone, We're still here. Things are just really very crazy right now, so I have been unable to blog or do much of anything except focus on our situation at hand. I will try and come back as soon as I can and give you all an update on whats been going on. Thanks for your patience.

Poll Time

2011-12-28T08:40:00.000-08:00

It's getting closer to the time when we'll be able to find out what the baby is. So cast your vote. What do you think it's going to be? What do you want it to be? Or just a fun guess. :)

25 Days of December

2011-12-25T07:00:00.000-08:00

Dec 25:
The Reason for the Season

We hope you all have a very Merry Christmas!

25 Days of December

2011-12-24T08:15:00.000-08:00

THE LEGEND OF THE CHRISTMAS SPIDER
(A folk legend from Germany and the Ukraine)

nce upon a time, long ago, a gentle mother was busily cleaning the house for the most wonderful day of the year.... The day on which the Christ child came to bless the house. Not a speck of dust was left. Even the spiders had been banished from their cozy corner in the ceiling to avoid the housewife's busy cleaning. They finally fled to the farthest corner of the attic. T'was the Christmas eve at last! The tree was decorated and waiting for the children to see it. But the poor spiders were frantic, for they could not see the tree, nor be present for the Christ child's visit. But the oldest and wisest spider suggested that perhaps they could peep through the crack in the door to see him. Silently they crept out of their attic, down the stairs, and across the floor to wait in the crack in the threshold. Suddenly, the door opened a wee bit and quickly the spiders scurried into the room. They must see the tree closely, since their eyes weren't accustomed to the brightness of the room... so the crept all over the tree, up and down, over every branch and twig and saw every one of the pretty things. At last they satisfied themselves completely of the Christmas tree beauty. But alas!! Everywhere they went they had left their webs, and when the little Christ child came to bless the house he was dismayed. He loved the little spiders, for they were God's creatures too, but he knew the mother, who had trimmed the tree for the little children, wouldn't feel the same, so He touched the webs and they all turned to sparkling, shimmering, silver and gold! Ever since that time, we have hung tinsel on our Christmas trees, and according to the legend, it has been a custom to include a spider among the decorations on the tree.

I absolutely Love this story. I heard it when I was still living in South Jordan and fell in love with it. I still have my cute little silver spider ornament.

25 Days of December

2011-12-23T08:19:00.000-08:00

Dec 23:
Who is the biggest iconic figure of Christmas besides the Savior? Santa Claus! But in my eyes Santa himself is a symbol of Christmas that testify's of Christ. I have a book called I believe in Santa Claus it's one of my favorite books around this time of year. It looks at Santa and talks about who he is and what he does. Then it looks at the Savior and talks about who he is and what he has done. The point of the book is that by saying you believe in Santa Claus it really means you believe in Jesus Christ! A lot of people rag on the idea of Santa for a lot of reasons, they don't want to lie, he takes the focus off the Savior, he is the meaning of commercialism. but even if you take a look back at the source of where Santa Claus came from you get the history of St. Nicholas. St. Nicholas was a devote Christian during the 17th century who was taught from the bible the teachings of Jesus Christ. After the death of his parents. He continued following after the Saviors example. He gave away his wealth to the poor and needy. he became a bishop of Myra and continued his service to those around him. he became well known for his generosity, concern for sailors and ships and love of Children. "St Nicholas Center website"
So if you ask me...Yes I DO believe in Santa Claus! :)

25 Days of December

2011-12-22T09:01:00.000-08:00

Dec 22:
Ok so I know that this is a long stretch but I am a little stumped today. So I am using the first thing that came to my mind. Santa at Christmas time needs help, so he has elves to help him with his work. Just like those Christmas elves we have people in our lives to help us out along our journey who work closely with the Savior.The Lord's prophets and his counselors. They help us to know the will of the Lord for us. They lead and guide Christ's church and it's people. I am thankful for all our leaders and their wonderful example to me.

25 Days of December

2011-12-21T08:52:00.000-08:00

Dec 21:
This year when James and I went to Christmas Village (up in Ogden) there was a cute house decorated with pickles with a Christmas pickle Poem. I thought it was really cute...

Christmas Pickle Poem
To start a tradition that will surely last,
Here's the story about the pickle of glass.
The night before Christmas it's hung on the tree
While everyone's sleeping, it's done secretly.
And on Christmas morning when you arise,
The first one to find it will get a surprise.
A family tradition for all to share
You'll look for the pickle year after year

This pickle poem isn't as good as the one in the little house but it was the only one I could find. The one who finds the pickle gets an extra present. It's a tradition to help families notice the tree and all the ornaments individually and their beauty and uniqueness. I think this would be a fun tradition in our house to start. We already have a pickle ornament. Even though it's a pickle it's good to look at things through different eyes and see the possibility of what could be there. Everything has beauty to it. Sometimes you need to just take the time to see it.

"Live Joyfully..." Ecclesiastes 9:9

25 Days of December

2011-12-20T08:43:00.000-08:00

Dec 20:
The Christmas bell is a symbol of finding our way back to Christ. When shepherds tend their sheep some of them put bells around every sheep and lambs neck. If any of his flock is missing the shepherd goes out to find them. He listens for the bell to help him locate the lost sheep. We are all precious in the eyes of our Lord and he wants each of us to return to live with him someday. As you listen to the Christmas bells ring out loud and clear this year. Let it remind you of the Saviors love for each of us and his desire to have all of us repent, return to his fold and live with him again someday.

25 Days of December

2011-12-19T13:26:00.000-08:00

Dec 19:Another poem I thought was kinda cute.

25 Days of December

2011-12-18T12:45:00.000-08:00

Dec 18: "Consider Christmas. It is the most nostalgic of times. It seems we’re such a homesick lot, yearning to be back in our Heavenly Father’s presence. But the Christmas celebration reminds us that our “homecoming” has been assured—because the Savior was born. That’s a good cause to celebrate! The gatherings and the feasts, and the music and the prose, all color the occasion uniquely. As the hearts of the children turn back to their fathers, our store of personal memories surrounding Christmas becomes precious." Consider Christmas By Elaine Cannon Dec 1973. This talk is amazing I loved it! if you would like to read the whole talk Click HERE. I promise it's worth it.

25 Days of December

2011-12-17T08:06:00.000-08:00

Dec 17:
I found this in The Friend. it's a children s magazine from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I thought it was really cute. It's a Christmas Alphabet. Enjoy!

A—Angels (Luke 2:1–9)

B—Bethlehem (Luke 2:10–15)

C—Christ (2 Nephi 25:23, 26)

D—Deeds (1 John 3:18, 23–24)

E—Everlasting (John 3:16–17)

F—Family (Luke 2:16–17)

G—Gold (Matthew 2:1–11)

H—Herod (Matthew 2:12–16)

I—Israel (Matthew 2:19–21)

J—Joseph (Matthew 1:19–24)

K—King (D&C 128:23)

L—Lord (D&C 19:1; Isaiah 26:4)

M—Mary (Luke 1:27–38, 46–48)

N—Nazareth (Matthew 2:22–23)

O—Obedient (John 8:29; Hebrews 5:8–9)

P—Peace (Luke 2:14; Isaiah 9:6)

Q—Quickly (D&C 49:28)

R—Redeemer (Job 19:25; Mormon 9:11–13)

S—Steadfastness (2 Nephi 26:8; 31:20)

T—Teach (Matthew 28:18–20)

U—Unshaken faith (2 Nephi 31:19)

V—Voice (Alma 5:38; Helaman 12:23)

W—Willing (Mosiah 26:17–18)

Y—Young (D&C 43:20)

Z—Zion (1 Nephi 13:37)

25 Days of December

2011-12-16T12:19:00.001-08:00

Dec 16:For everyone who's lost a loved one.

25 Days of December

2011-12-15T09:45:00.000-08:00

Dec 15: Well I have covered red and green but I didn't really cover white. I guess I did a bit with snow. But I would like to focus on the color white today. White is a well known color for purity. Which is what I would like to focus on. The purity and love of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. It is always perfect and something we can always count on. Like our mortal parents on this earth no matter what we do they are always there with opened arms ready to take us back.

"...to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God." Ephesians 3:19

25 Days of December

2011-12-14T09:33:00.000-08:00

Dec 14: I found this cute poem and wanted to share it.

25 Days of December

2011-12-13T11:56:00.000-08:00

Dec 13:
"Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." Isaiah 1:18

I love waking up to a white winter morning. especially around Christmas time. Right before all the kids come out and play and the dogs go running through it. The snow sits on the ground like a soft silky blanket without any blemishes. It's days like these that help me to remember the scripture above. We can become white, perfect and clean just like snow when we give our sins to the Lord. the repentance process can be hard but when it's done you can feel just like a bright crisp beautiful winters morning without blemish and clean.

25 Days of December

2011-12-12T14:21:00.000-08:00

Dec 12:
What Christmas would be complete with a bow or two for decoration or on the presents under the tree. Bows are another common sight at Christmas and just like everything else we have talked about is a symbol of Christmas. Bows are the symbol and reminder that we need to tie ourselves together in the gospel and to Christ. Cause when you are tied to Christ.

"Let us turn again to the Book of Mormon, this time to learn some principles about coming unto Christ, being committed to Him, centered in Him, and consumed in Him. We will quote but a few of the numerous passages on the matter.

First we need to know that Christ invites us to come unto Him. “Behold, he sendeth an invitation unto all men, for the arms of mercy are extended towards them, … Yea, he saith: Come unto me and ye shall partake of the fruit of the tree of life” (Alma 5:33–34).

Come, for he stands “with open arms to receive you” (Morm. 6:17).

Come, for “he will console you in your afflictions, and he will plead your cause” (Jacob 3:1).

“Come unto him, and offer your whole souls as an offering unto him” (Omni 1:26)."

-President Ezra Taft Benson October 1987 general conference talk-

25 Days of December

2011-12-11T13:44:00.000-08:00

Dec 11:
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16

One of the biggest and most changing concepts of Christmas are the gifts you see under your tree. The world has changed Christmas to a commercial industry. Changing beloved Christmas Carols and Hymns about the Savior. Into what the greatest thing to buy or where the best place to shop is. The presents under the tree are another symbol of gods love for us. According to John he loved us so much that he gave his most precious gift to save us. His Son Jesus Christ. Our Heavenly Father still gives us gifts and blessings because of his pure and perfect love for all his children. So no matter what wrapping paper you use or whats in the box you are wrapping. The symbol of the present rings loud and clear.

25 Days of December

2011-12-10T21:05:00.000-08:00

Dec 10:
Candy cane is one of the most common known Christmas Symbols. The candy cane was patterned after the shepherds crook. No matter what color, flavor, size or packaging it comes in. it will always be a reminder to us of the humble shepherds that came to see the Christ child so many years ago.

25 Days of December

2011-12-09T13:53:00.000-08:00

Dec 9:
We've already talked about the color evergreen which most Christmas trees are. We've already talked about the star on top of the Christmas tree and the lights that are placed on it's boughs. Now it's time to talk about the actual tree.
The Christmas tree carries with it many different symbols of the Christmas season. From the lights and presents to the star or angel that adorns the top of traditional Christmas trees. the pine tree is used because of it's natural architecture you could say. Just like Catholic Cathedrals of ancient Europe and the LDS temples of today. The pine tree naturally draws your eye up towards heaven. Helping to point you up towards our Heavenly Father and his Son Jesus Christ.
Just another great way to remind us of the true reason of the season.

25 Days of December

2011-12-08T12:14:00.000-08:00

Dec 8: Star
"Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judæa in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,

Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.

And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.

And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.

And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.

When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt:

And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son."

Video: http://lds.org/bible-videos/videos/the-wise-men-seek-jesus?lang=eng

25 Days of December

2011-12-07T21:01:00.000-08:00

Dec 7: Angels

"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

Luke 2: 8-14

25 Days of December

2011-12-06T08:57:00.000-08:00

Dec 6: Since yesterday was red today I will focus on GREEN! Green is also connected with the Christmas tree which I will cover in a different post. Evergreens were used as a traditional Christmas tree (again I will cover in more detail later) for a specific reason. When you look up evergreen in the dictionary. It talks about "a plant that retains green leaves throughout the year." Or "having an enduring freshness." so to me when I think of evergreen I think of something being constant, reliable or like it said above; having an enduring freshness. So when you put red and green together you have the red being the atonement and green reminding us to be constant in the way of Christ. Or in LDS terminology endure to the end. Just like in the scriptures God first gives us a way then a promise. Through the atonement of Jesus Christ we can repent and return again to the father, through our obedience and trust in the Lord and as long as we endure to the end.

25 Days of December

2011-12-05T20:29:00.000-08:00

Dec 5: Yesterday at church we heard this beautiful story about a pine tree on temple square close to where you come out of the temple that they cover in red lights. Like everything in the gospel this tree is symbolic of the Lebanon tree and is adorned with thousands of red light bulbs each Christmas season as a reminder of Christs sacrifice for us all. So for this post I am focusing on the color RED at Christmas time. The color red is a wonderful reminder of Christs atonement for us all, that we may repent and return to live with our Heavenly Father. This would not have been possible without the Saviors willingness to take upon himself all of our sins. I testify that this is true and know without a shadow of a doubt that through the Saviors atoning sacrifice we can be saved.

25 Days of December

2011-12-04T10:00:00.000-08:00

Dec 4: "Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." John 8:12
Every time I see Christmas lights or candles I always remember this scripture. Christ is our light and where there is light darkness fades away.

25 Days of December

2011-12-03T08:56:00.000-08:00

Dec 3: I love the symbolism behind all the Christmas decorations. Today I would like to focus on the wreath. Wreaths are symbols of Gods love for us, it's infinite and never ending. Whenever I see a wreath hanging from a door or window its a testimony to me of God's love for me and all his children.

Winds of Change

2011-12-02T12:23:00.000-08:00

Well I have a couple things to "report" on :) After what has seemed like a really long time, we are coming to the tail end of James' schooling at LDSBC. He will continue on at Weber till he gets his bachelors but he only has a semester left at the BC after this one ends. This is great news for a couple of reasons. Now he can focus on one school instead of going to two (Weber State University and LDS Business College) He can get out of these generals classes the don't interest him and have classes that interest him only. The last reason is that he can take his MA test to become a certified Medical Assistant. which also means a job for him. YAY! He has about 140 hours of his externship that he has to finish and then he can take the test and be on his way. both him and I are excited about that. :)He wasn't to happy about me wanting to take his picture this morning. he doesn't much care for them and he isn't a morning person. :p He has 3 scrubs he can wear, Red, Black and Blue.
To continue on with our winds of change, when things happen to us they always seem to happen big or all at once...I don't really understand why. Well October was one of those crazy months, first we found out about Abby and how her heart is failing and then James started to get frustrated with school (particularly one teacher) plus some other not so good stuff happened that I cant remember. But the one thing that happened that was good....KABLAMO! After 3 years of trying. WE'RE PREGNANT! :) I am 12 weeks along and the doctor says everything looks healthy. It has been a heck of a time too. I have lost almost 20 pounds because I cant keep anything down. The doc had to give me a prescription so I could eat and have it stay down. One cute thing is while I was hugging the toilet one night poor James said he wanted to help but didn't really know what to do. He would usually put a cold cloth on my neck which would help. That night he said "I don't mean to sound insensitive but I am so happy every time you throw up. It means every thing's ok." I couldn't blame him. So here we are 3 months and past the danger zone (knock on wood) I still get sick but not as much. Nothing ever sounds good to me and when it does I eat it, cause chances are it wont sound good tomorrow. Liquids are more of my friend then solids. :) We are hoping for a girl but we'll still be excited if it's a boy. Yes we have a few names in mind but nothing to solid... and yeah I think that's all the answers to the questions people have been asking. :) I will be putting a poll up next week so you can vote if you think it's going to be a boy or girl...or "place your order" as my mother in law said she wanted to do. :p
So why do you ask is the whole reason for the "winds of change" title. Well it's in honor of that Horrible wind storm we had yesterday in the Northern part of Utah. We are safe and so is our house. Just a few missing shingles. But we have neighbors that had big 50 to 60 foot pine trees fall in their yard and some on their house. It was scary. We had power out all day yesterday but Rocky Mountain power had it back on before bedtime so we were able to have the house start to heat up again before it got to cold. But there are still people in Centerville, Bountiful, Farmington and parts of Ogden that still don't have power. We pray for them. Here's a picture of our neighbors tree.

25 Days of December

2011-12-02T12:14:00.000-08:00

Dec 2: With all this talk going around with trying to take God out of the pledge and the constitution and the atheist really trying to hit hard on all Christian belief. I still love that every year radio stations play Christmas music. Songs like Away in a manger, drummer boy, O come let us adore him and many many more that portray Christs birth. When it comes to praying in schools a lot of schools don't allow it. But I love that they still hold Christmas programs with live nativity's and singing their praises to Christ.

25 Days of December

2011-12-01T10:19:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year, everyone seems a little nicer, the world seems a little brighter and everyone turns their attention to Christ. So for December this year I am going to host the 25 days of December. Everyday I am going to post something that reminder us of our Savior Jesus Christ.
Dec 1st: I am going to start by the biggest reminder of our Savior and that's the Nativityno matter in what form or country it comes from. The nativity is one of the most widely used decorations at Christmas time to help us remember the birth of our Savior.They come in all shapes and sizes with the Son of God at the center. I am thankful for the chance we have to express our love for our savior and gratitude towards Mary and Joesph and their faith in being able to be charged with such a huge responsibility and calling.
May you have the joy of the season in your hearts this year.
Thanks for reading

Thanksgiving

2011-11-28T10:15:00.000-08:00

We had a great Thanksgiving Holiday. I was able to take Wed off so I had a nice 5 day weekend. Wed was spent at home relaxing and cleaning the house...two things that were very much needed. later Wed night we had Gavin over for a sleep over. We were trying to help out Nikki and Justin so that they could have a date night for Justin's birthday. Thanksgiving day was A Lot of fun. After getting Gavin back home, getting ready then dropping off some stuff at Uncle Kim and Gordy's house we were off to my sister Nancy's house for Thanksgiving. It was so good to see all my family again...and I mean ALL..well almost we were missing 5 people. Addi and Tessa were up in Idaho having Thanksgiving with her family and Preston and Mina are in the Philippines enjoying their new baby girl. :) So overall at one point there was 46 people floating around Nancy and Gary's house. :) fun times. The dinner was so good thanks to all who participated and it was so good to visit with everyone and play games. Here are some pictures of our fun holiday.

What happens when you leave your camera unattended at family functions?....Alexis happens :) gotta love this girl. :p Food Line
The Classic family game of Shanghai no family function would be complete without a round or two. :)For part of dessert Mom brought out her chocolate fountain with an assortment of things to dip in the chocolate. The kids LOVED it. Especially Lizzie and Becca. :)

My New Niece

2011-11-26T19:24:00.000-08:00

My Brother Preston and his wife Mina had their baby on Nov 23. YAY! Congrats to them!.
Evelyn Rose (first name) Florencia (Middle name) Earl (Last Name) was born on November 23 2011. She is 0.00325 tons (7 lbs 2 oz)

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T07:00:00.000-08:00

Hope Everyone has a safe and Happy Thanksgiving and that you don't tire yourself out making all that food. :)
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

A to Z ME

2011-11-17T09:26:00.000-08:00

So, I know my blog has been pretty boring as of late, what can I say when all we do is work and school life is pretty dull. So here's something fun my niece did on her blog that I thought it would be fun to do as well. :) Plus nothing is happening at work and I am really bored. So here we go...

A: Age: 29
B: Bed size:King which is perfect for us since we are both bed hogs.
C: Chore that you hate: dishes and laundry I would rather scrub my floors on my hands and knees then do these.
D: Dogs: Yes please :) James and I both love big dogs, but we have two little dogs since our house is so small. We both want great danes but can you imagine that running around in our tiny condo. :)
E: Essential start to your day: Taking out Toto. Seriously this dog has no patience and a tiny bladder.
F: Favorite color: Anything bright. Usually it's orange but I love bright fun colors.
G: Gold or Silver: Silver...or white gold :)
H: Height: 5'5"
I: Instruments you play: I started learning to play the drums but my teacher moved to Texas. He didn't charge so that's why I haven't gotten back into it yet. How can you beat free.
J: Job title: Housing Supervisor and Representative
K: Kids: yes please :)
L: Live: In a little condo in South Ogden. LOVE IT!
M: Mother's Name: Evelyn Earl
N: Nicknames: Kris, Hon (by James), KC, Caboose, etc.
O: Overnight hospital stays: I was in the hospital for almost a week for pneumonia. At one point I had a fever of 104.6. It was bad. Then another week at a recovery facility.
P: Pet peeves: I have a lot while I drive. But outside of that, I cant stand dishonest and fake people. Even if the truth hurts I would rather hear that then a lie. Also mean people, I cant comprehend why people are so mean to each other
Q: Quote from a movie: We have a lot. The one that comes to mind "I just like to smile, smiling is my favorite." Elf
R: Right or Left handed:Right
S: Siblings: Byron, Kari, Nancy, Shelly, Denese, Jason, Preston, me
T: Time you get up: Around 7:00 to 7:30 depends on the day and if I get to drive in.
U: Ultimate dream: Currently it's to get James employed.
V: Vegetable you hate: Cooked spinach, peas, brussel sprouts, artichoke. YUCK!
W: What makes you run late: getting up to late, taking to long of a shower.
X: X-Rays you've had:uh..arm, wrist, chest ( a few times), ankle, leg, teeth..I think that's it.
Y: Yummy food that you make: Cookies, cakes and James loves this chicken, broccoli casserole I do.
Z: Zoo Animal: Cant name only one. Currently it's Giraffes, otters, seals, and big cats. oh and anything baby or on zooborns. Love that website.

So there ya have it, a little more info about me. :)

Check out this kitty

2011-11-16T09:08:00.000-08:00

So you've probably seen this little guy on the side under the cat of the week adoptions. Usually I change these every Wed. However I want to keep this little guy up for a little while longer...maybe a week or 2. He is a rare and very expensive breed called a Bengal Cat these cats are very expensive starting as high as $500 a cat and up.They are also hard to come by, you need to go to a special breeder just to get one. That's why I was shocked to find him listed under Salt Lake adoptions. Cats like these don't just show up at the humane society or animal shelters. I wonder if his owner wasn't happy with the way his markings were turning out and decided to give him up...not sure. Anyway if you have been thinking about getting a cat please click on this little guys picture on the right hand side and see what you think. It's a great way to own a Bengal cat without the price.

Tenth Mountain Division aids in Italy

2011-11-11T09:09:00.000-08:00

This is James' Great Uncle Tom. I found the video below through my sister in law's facebook page. It tells the story of the 10th Mountain Division that Tom was in and the cause that he died for. Thanks Nikki for sharing this video.

Veterans Day

2011-11-11T08:14:00.000-08:00

Happy Veterans day to all the vets out there. I would like to send out our warmest of thanks for all you have gave and sacrificed for our country and it's freedom. Thank you to Sgt. Thomas W. Larsen who was apart of the 10th Mountain Division 85th Infantry Regiment, Headquarters 3rd Battalion, Company 1.Who died Feb 20 1945 on Riva Ridge in Italy. While helping to push the German army out of Italy. This is my father in laws Uncle. It has been so fun to learn about his life and the passion he had to serve his country. He received a purple heart that our family still cherishes. Thank You to my brother Preston and his service in the Marines. Thank you to my father and father in law for their service in the Army. Thank you to my brother in law for his current service in the Air Force Reserves. Thank You to my Grandpa and his service. The men and women who serve our great nation are the reason why I can worship my Heavenly Father freely. They are the reason for newspapers, news stations, and radio talk shows. They are the reason why I can go to work and support my family while my husband finishes school. They are the reason why protesters can protest. Please remember to take a few minutes today and thank a veteran or a soldier for their willingness to serve our country.

"In Flanders field the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our places; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scare heard amid the guns below.
...
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie.
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

-Lt. John McRae, May 3, 1915-

Adoption Awareness Month

2011-11-03T08:24:00.000-07:00

Every year my friend Katie posts the story of how she adopted her two cute little kids. it's a wonderful story that I never get tired of hearing about. She also does a Q&A about adoption to help people understand more about adoption, how it works and anything else you would like to know about it. She does little contests and has posted about kids who are waiting to be adopted. If you are looking and interested in adopting, want to learn something new or just want to read her story. Check out her blog HERE. After this it will go back to being a private blog but until then please head on over to check out this amazing family.

Halloween and Weekend Fun

2011-11-02T08:24:00.000-07:00

We had a great weekend and to be quite honest, I'm glad Octobers over. Usually October is a great month that I don't want to end because it seems like endless fun. But this year just seemed like it was full of stress and frustration and chaos. But we did get out and enjoy the nice fall weather and the Halloween season. Friday we took Nate, Gavin and Ethan to a trunk or treat and pooch parade at the South Ogden Jr. High. Everyone had a great time, the boys got a decent amount of candy and everyone loved the dogs costumes. Rosko or Toto didn't win but we did get 4 bags of dogie treats, so we kinda won anyway. :)Rosko is definitely not shy when it comes to camera's or people. I found this on South Ogden days facebook wall. What a ham! After the trunk or treat we dropped off the dogs and picked up some can goods and headed out to a spook alley. The can goods was the cost to get in. We had James and I and 3 little boys go in but only 1 made it out....the 3 year old :). Ethan walked right in and kept on going. James had to catch up to him, he kept walking up to the people and saying hi. James picked him up and it wasn't till I think it was a witch or something that Ethan finally got a little scared. James asked if he wanted to run for it and Ethan said yeah. So they took off. :) Gavin and Nate didn't like it, I kept trying to urge them forward but they weren't going to have it. They planted their feet and wouldn't move. Finally Gavin asked if we could leave. We waited for James and Ethan at the car. After that we took them back to their house for dinner and so they could tell their tales of survival in the spook alley. So much fun.Sunday was the 5th annual Armstrong Halloween party and I think one of the funnest. We had creepy appetizers Followed by a spooky dinner of snakes, (pizza) mummy's, (hot dogs wrapped in bread) pumpkin brains, (oogle sproogle) and fingers and bones, (bread sticks) and a a nice witches brew to wash it all down (homemade root beer). We played games and visited and the kids even got to show off their costumes to our neighbor and go trick or treating a little early. Everyone seemed to have a great time, and what would Halloween be like without a big picture of the whole gang. :) Thanks to Mom A. and Uncle Kim and Uncle Gordy for putting together the fun food.Halloween night we actually didn't do much. James had a lot of homework to do. So we went out to his parents house so he could use their computer and I watched the 6 hour live ghost hunters marathon while giving candy out to trick or treaters. Mom and Dad were helping out with the kids at Nikki's house. I have never really had a chance to just give out candy so it was a fun experience on a nice relaxing night. Well that's all our Halloween fun. :) here are some more pictures of the party.Left to right top: Kim as leftovers, Gordy as a farmer, Bob as a knight, James as Luigi, myself as Mario.
Left to Right Middle: Abby as El Dia De Los Muertos, Lisa as Gypsy, Parker as thing 1, Nate as the grim reaper, Mom A and Dad A as pumpkins, Drew as thing 2
Left to Right Bottom: Gavin as Indiana Jones, Ethan as Thomas the train, Nikki as a witch.
HAPPY HALLOWEEN

Eugene Claude "Corky" Bracisco Jr.

2011-10-28T12:28:00.000-07:00

Eugene Claude Corky Bracisco Jr. Obituary: View Eugene Bracisco's Obituary by Lake County Record-Bee

My family lost a wonderful member of the family last week. This is my cousin Corky Bracisco, he died in a car accident while at work. I was never really close to Corky, I would see him every other year for family reunions. But what I do know is that Corky was one of the nicest men I know, he always had a joke and smile ready for you. He was a loving father and husband. I always had a lot of fun with them at the reunions. To my Aunt Kathryn (Corky's mom) and Zoi (Corky's Wife) and her kids and family we send out our love and prayers to them. Rest in Peace Corky we will never forget you!

Halloween Light Show 2011 - This Is Halloween

2011-10-25T14:26:00.000-07:00

This just makes me smile. Say what you want but the simple things in life makes me happy.

Halloween song.

2011-10-25T10:30:00.000-07:00

The first time I heard this song I thought it was so funny. It sounds like the kind of song a disgruntled parent made to get their kids to stop eating so much Halloween candy. :)

Scholarships

2011-10-20T08:33:00.000-07:00

Refer a Friend - Fastweb
Hello Blogger Friends. :) Many of you know that both James and I are working on getting our degrees. Through our financial aid office at LDS Business College I found a website with tons of scholarship opportunities. Everything from $500 to $2500 in free scholarships. If you are interested in checking out this website, please click on the link above. Not only do you get to look through hundreds of scholarships, but by signing up through this link your also helping me apply for a $500 scholarship.I know this isn't what my blog is for but it was a way I figured I could get the word out. :) Thanks

Love This!

2011-10-19T10:53:00.000-07:00

So I just had to share this. I see a lot of truth in this. I really love it.

Abby Update

2011-10-18T09:29:00.000-07:00

Abby wearing her stylin jammies that her Nona (Mom Armstrong) made her.

I wanted to Send out a warm THANK YOU! To all who have been sending thoughts and prayers Abby's way. I also wanted to say another big THANK YOU to all those who participated in the group fast for her. Well to update you she has been out of the hospital for a little over a week now. They still aren't sure what has caused the damage in her left ventricle but know that 50% of the tissue is damaged beyond repair. She is now seeing an adult cardiologist as well as all her normal doctors and a heart failure/transplant specialist. A heart transplant is looking a little more realistic but they are still hoping that it will be 1-3 years before that happens. She is wearing a life vest which is basically a defibrillator. It will shock her heart if it stops. They do want to put in a defibrillator/pacemaker actually in her heart very soon. Which they think can be done with a cath instead of another open heart surgery. So far this is where we left off. I have had a nasty cold for almost a week now, So I haven't been able to go around Abby cause anything even a cold could be life threatening to her. But if you would like updates you can become her friend on facebook at Abby's perfect broken heart where her and her mom give regular statue updates. Or you can check out her mom's blog HERE. Again a big THANK YOU to everyone for your love and support for our sweet little niece Abby.

5 years

2011-10-12T07:27:00.000-07:00

2006 2007

2008
2009
2010
2011
5 years ago on Oct 7, James and I were sealed together for time and all eternity. To say this past 5 years has been easy would be a lie. But to say it has been worth it is more than 100% truth. James and I have laughed, argued, smiled, cried and experienced ever other emotion you can think of together. We have been each others support and foundation. We have learned a lot about ourselves and each other. Our relationship and love is stronger today than it ever was when we first got married. James is the most amazing man I have ever met and no one could ever take his place in my heart. I am truly blessed that I found him and even more blessed that he chose me. As we continue our journey and as the yearly pictures begin to change even more, I look forward to the happiness, joy, triumph and even the pain and sad times to come. Every thing we go through brings us that much closer together.
I love you James!!!

NEED YOUR HELP!

2011-10-06T07:03:00.000-07:00

Our sweet little niece Abby is in the hospital. She went in for a normal check up for her heart and the doctors found that her left ventricle is working at 15%. That was on Tuesday so far we haven't heard anything other than everything appears to be normal...but it's not and the doctors are baffled. Abby is the same spit fire, ball of spunk that she always is. She's the same Abby that we know and Love. When you look at this little girl you wouldn't even know that she's sick. But once again CHD is trying to overcome her. Little Abby and her family could use all the prayers they can get. Plus this Sunday We would like to have a group fast for Abby. That the doctors may be guided and find out what is causing Abby's heart to be so weak and fix the problem.We would like everyone to participate who can and please send lots of prayers, thoughts and good vibes to Sweet Abby and her family. We love our Abby and want to see her get well.

A Time to Be Crafty

2011-10-03T08:56:00.000-07:00

Those who know me know I LOVE anything crafty. If I can dream it up or see it then I'll try it. For awhile now I have wanted a place to post my creations but always thought that my crafting is so few and far between that there was no point. I finished my latest craft over this last weekend and couldn't wait to share it. So I did. :) I thought why not share it. If you are interested in seeing my latest crafts and ideas, please visit me at A Time To Be Crafty. I would love to hear your feedback. Oh and one more thing. Anything that has a price is for sale. Details are all there so check it out.

125 Years

2011-10-02T10:23:00.000-07:00

On September 21st, James and I had the opportunity to participate in LDS Business Colleges 125th Birthday Celebration. The had games, music both live and not, LOTS of food and they dropped 1000 ping pong balls form the top of the 10 story college to waiting students down below. 125 of those ping pong balls had numbers on them and if you caught one you won something. They also planted a tree in our newly remodeled campus plaza with President Richards some of the VP's and the alumni. It was a lot of fun to be part of such a huge milestone in the colleges life. The college has many more activities over the next academic year to continue the celebration. There is a display in the Joesph Smith Memorial building commemorating the colleges 125 years. So look for the college there, in the news and other places. because we're moving forward. :)Ping pong balls

Forgot

2011-09-28T09:38:00.001-07:00

I forgot to post this picture....
Gotta show San Juan being represented at the State Fair for all my Monticello and Blanding friends and Family. :D

State Fair Work and Fun

2011-09-28T07:56:00.000-07:00

Sept 8-18 was the Utah State Fair and my good friend Karen was able to hook me up with a job working as a ticket taker. THANK YOU AGAIN KAREN!!!!I hadn't been to the State Fair since I was a little girl. It was a lot of fun. I made some friends, saw A LOT of interesting people (Some I really wish I could inconspicuously taken pictures of) and overall had a great time. I spent all 11 days of the fair at the fair. I had Tuesday and Thursday off because of my 5-6:30 math class. But we also got free tickets to go, so James waited for me to get out of class and we headed down over to check out some things. I got to see friends and family too. Lexi and Jon (my niece and her fiance) came down to help Jon's mom. She was participating in a couple of the cook out contests. I got to spend my lunch time with them and even a little time after I got off work.In those 11 days I did eat too much fair food, but didn't get a chance to try any of the extremely unique items like I wanted to. But hey there's always next year. :) But I think some of my favorite times at the fair was getting off work and just walking around taking everything in before I headed home. Some days were hard and the whole thing was kinda exhausting. But overall it was really great. Here are some pictures of my 11 day adventure. Some are with my phone because I didn't have my camera when I wandered.This little guy sat just like this on his blacklegs looking around at everyone. He was so cute.Sea lion show My gate supervisor Darren. Such a nice guy.When we would come into work the ladies in the office would always have little treats for us. I was working the Saturday that the big rivalry BYU/Utah game was on. These were our treats for the day. :)

Labor Day update

2011-09-20T09:50:00.000-07:00

My parents decided to stay an extra day and they came up to spend labor day with us. Since my dad realy likes planes. we decided to take them to the Hill Aerospace Museum.I have been to the outside of the museum plenty of times, but never inside. So I was excited to finally go in. Oh and getting back to normal Kristene tradition...I took A LOT of photos. here are a few...

3rd Annual Family BBQ

2011-09-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

In 2009 I decided it would be fun to try and get the family together with my dad's side of the family and have a BBQ. It was a success so we decided to keep it going. 2011 marks the 3rd year and even though my dad's side of the family couldn't make it (i.e. the Peck Family) we decided to continue the tradition anyway. So on Sept 3rd we all headed to the same park in Riverton and continue the celebration. This year James and I brought our newly acquired gas grill (thanks Nikki & Justin) to make things a little easier. We all had a great time. The kids loved the splash pad and even tried to start a water fight. Which quickly went downhill when the adults they kept dumping cups full of water decided to retaliate. There was baseball, football, and extreme Frisbee enjoyed by most. :) All in all it was a great day. Oh and my nieces FIANCE was able to join the festivities. :) So excited for them. Here's some fun pictures of the day. (P.S. I didn't get very many pictures since I accidentally dropped my camera in a small puddle. :( it survived after a useful rice tip from my sister. The man on the left is our newest family member. My niece Lexi's fiance. :) Congrats again to them.The number 1 cause of broken legs for children? SLIDES! Beware the Slide.All that playing is hard work. Thanks to my family for joining in and helping out by bringing food. next year same place..maybe same time. :)

Back To School

2011-09-12T09:08:00.000-07:00

Today is the beginning of Fall Semester. This is both good news and bad news for James and I. Good news cause it means we are still moving forward and after this semester James is only 1 semester away from getting his associates. The bad news cause it means the end of summer and a long time before we have any personal free time. It's very bitter sweet. I decreased my work load by dropping one class, but James has a VERY full schedule. Between Weber and LDSBC he is taking 19 credits. So wish us luck and just like Billy said... Well, here goes nothing! Jumping in feet first cause we know no other way. :)

It's All Here

2011-09-08T08:46:00.000-07:00

Well folks it's that time of year again. Time for over sized pumpkins, squash, and watermelons. Looking at all the farms animals you want, rickety scary carnival rides that you don't know if you'll live or not, but knowing that's half the fun. Over priced drinks, new foods to try like chocolate covered ants or scorpions or a maggot melt sandwich or a nice alligator burger. As well as classic favorites like cotton candy, kettle corn and everything and anything under the sun that you can stick on a stick and deep fry. Yup it's state fair time 11 days of pure fun...in what ever realm your looking for. Of those 11 days I will be there for ALL 11 DAYS! You must be thinking Wow that must be expensive. on the contrary it's actually the opposite. Of those 11 days of all that state fair goodness I will be working at the fair as a ticket taker for 9days. The other 2 days I have off but are the only days that James and I can use our free passes. So when the lady walks in with too short of shorts, a white halter top with a black bra, fish net tights and red cowboy boots. I will be the one to take her ticket ask if she wants a map and tells her to enjoy the fair. Oh and don't forget to get your hand stamped if you need to leave but want to come back later. I will be sitting in my little tent with the plastered on smile greeting all sorts of wonderful Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, a few Nevada people while Weird Al Yankovich sings the Oreo song in the background. So Come One, Come All, We'd love to see you out at the Utah State fair. :D If you're going to the fair and would like to stop by and say hi, I will be working Gate A the closest to the 10th N entrance. Except for the 13th and 15th.

LOL-Cant think of a better title than LOL.

2011-08-23T12:38:00.000-07:00

I love these Commercials. Especially this one. It Kills me every time. :) Seriously if I am having a bad day, all I need to do is watch this and I start to smile.

End of Summer Semester and Finals

2011-08-23T09:39:00.000-07:00

I think it's so funny how different schools work. For those who don't know,James is attending LDS Business College and Weber State University at the same time.This week we ended Summer Semester at LDSBC and James started his Fall Semester at Weber. While all my friends and family is posting about sending kids off to their first days of school. I ended school this week. My niece asked me the other day when I go back to school. When I told her not till September 12 she said "Lucky!". I had to remind her that yeah that may be lucky in her mind (since she starts school tomorrow), but for me it seems like to short a break. I then explained that while she's been blissfully enjoying her summer fun. I've been in school. Taking notes, quiz's, tests and doing major projects. She then replied with a "that's true. I don't envy you." So I am kinda excited for my overdue albeit small break before the chaos that is Fall Semester begins. I feel confident in at least one of my finals that I took today, So I consider that a good sign. :) Good luck to James who didn't get a very long break, and Hello Summer for me. :) I will try and enjoy what I can of you before you go away.

Electric Avenue

2011-08-15T12:35:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share. Last night We had a really bad lightning storm hit Ogden. As far as I know non of the lightning hit. Thank goodness cause I was obsessed with getting a picture of the lightning and was standing outside for accumulated 45-60 min trying to do this. This is what I got.

I was facing to much to the rightTo highHere's a fairly decent one.
It was a lot of fun but then the rain started pouring down in buckets and I didn't want to ruin my camera. I am going to try again the next storm we get though. Like I said I am obsessed.

Its What Fun Is

2011-08-10T10:22:00.000-07:00

So this past Saturday Weber State University was having it's Lagoon day. They had single day passes to Lagoon for $25 (usually $45) and a $5.00 all you can eat lunch. How can you beat that? So James and I decided to go. After I bought our tickets I found out that my sisters and their families were going too. YAY! So last Saturday was Weber Day. We got to the park and headed to the Weber tent to pick up our tickets and found my sister Nancy and her family SURPRISE! They were waiting for my sister Denese and her family. We headed into the park with them but broke off and told them that we'd meet up with them for lunch. We spent the morning together then headed over to the Pavilion where Weber was having their lunch. We got to sit and chat with the family. My nephew Addi and his wife came down from Idaho. It was a lot of fun seeing them The Peterson family is HUGE U of U fans and when the raffle started Addi turned to us and said "watch I'll probably win, why would I want a Weber shirt." Out of the 16 of us we were bound to win something. But as the raffle went on we all kinda went back to talking till Addi looked at his ticket and said "I won" very casually and got up. He got a Weber calculator that he was Thrilled (insert sarcasm here) about. As the raffle went on and dwindled to football tickets left Denese had her number called out. She got football tickets WAHOO! The rest of the numbers called and people started filing out of the pavilion to enjoy the rest of their day. As James and I were sitting there all of a sudden an envelope with football tickets fell in front of me, as well as a Weber calculator. James started to laugh Denese said "it's in Sept against Sacramento. Have fun!" So we got free tickets and a free date night. THANKS DENESE! :) The rest of the day we spent with the Bleak's and Peterson's. We had a great time and got to go on a ride with everyone. Some of the Petersons left early, but we stayed till closing and then some, riding last minute rides and playing last minute games. I played one of those water shooting games and won a BIG green teddy bear. YAY!( he's cuter and a brighter green then what the picture shows.) I have never won the big prize before it was fun. We had a great day.
Thanks Petersons and Bleaks!

P.S. Sorry about all the pictures, I forgot my camera but I did get the 2 pictures with my phone. the one showing the turn of the century ride (swings) we were on the train when Addi and Tessa were riding that. So somewhere in that blur is family! :D

Monticello Part 2

2011-08-04T07:44:00.000-07:00

******DISCLAIMER*******

Long post and full of pictures

Sunday Morning came bright and early. This was the whole reason why we were down in Monticello, to see my parents homecoming. Again we played with fire by needing to light the pilot light whenever anyone yelled from the shower. We were a little late to church, we snuck in the back, I guess my family had scooted down to take whole bench so when we came in they could just scoot down to make room. But I didn't know that I just saw this small space and thought we cant fit there. We did make it in time to hear mom and dad speak. Mom talked about their mission and the people and Dad talked about the ordinances of the temple and the covenants we make with the Lord. They both did a great job, Dad even bore his testimony in Spanish. It was neat to hear that. After their talks we went back to the cabin to change and meet the family over at mom and dad's house for a luncheon then a family picture afterward.We got quite a few of these pictures. After all the picture taking some of the family was going to head home, so we said our goodbyes and watched them go. Then James and I thought it would be fun to take Abby to Newspaper Rock to show her a little bit of Canyonlands. Andre and Tia came with us. The drive down was nice, everyone just chit chatted. Andre started talking about College's and I did tense up a little because I was waiting for what I knew was coming. Abby mentioned that she wanted to go to BYU and Andre without even stopping to take a breath simply said "no your not" then kept on talking. I looked back at Abby and she just shrugged it off. She knows what she wants and she's going to go for it no matter what anyone says. :) Newspaper Rock was fun I quietly took my pictures while Abby, Tia and Andre started trying to translate the pictures. After awhile James joined in.On the way out of Canyonlands I decided Toto show everyone the back way (mostly James). There's a road that goes into the Abajo Mountains and then into Monticello. As we were driving through the winding roads, Andre was saying how he thought Utah was ugly. I pulled over to an overlook of Canyonlands. As we were looking out over the view, Tia turns to Andre and says "Look at ugly Utah." We all started to laugh. He explained that he use to think that but doesn't anymore. After we got out of the mountain and back to Monticello, we headed back to Mom and Dad's house to find them asleep and everyone gone except for the Nitzel's. So we decided to stop by the cabin to check on the dogs, then head to Denese and Loren's house in Blanding. We were all going to dinner over there later so we just thought it would be fun to head out there early. We're glad we did too, it was fun catching up with everyone. We also watched Mega Mind ( a first for James and I). Abby was a hit especially with Loren and Nancy. Soon the rest of the family showed up and we all got to eat some dinner and chit chat. When it got dark James pulled out the telescope again. The family really loved that. Loren brought out his I-pad with this neat star mapping app on it. The rest of the night was spent looking through the telescope and visiting with family while the kids played night games. (Abby loved that) After all the fun and festivities we went back to the cabin and James kept the telescope out and we continued talking with Shelly and Nathan and looking at the stars. Abby fell asleep but reminded us to wake her when we saw Jupiter. Well we tried, but she was so tired.Monday morning Mom and Dad invited us to go to breakfast with them, but because of the late night we didn't get up in time. Shelly and Nathan were kind enough to let us eat their cereal again. :) while we got ready for the day and packed everything up. Shelly and Nathan were leaving and we were moving over to Mom and Dad's house so we wouldn't be in the cabin alone. We said our goodbyes to Shelly and Nathan, dropped our stuff off at Mom and Dad's and started making out plans for the day. We were going to go to Mesa Verde and go see the Indian ruins but we didn't know what to do with the dogs and we were concerned about the heat. It was still early in the morning but it was already Extremely hot. We decided to head into Blanding for lunch and go from there. After lunch it felt a lot hotter than it did that morning. So we decided to stay around Blanding. We took Abby to Edge of the Cedars first. Abby and I went into the museum while James stayed outside with the dogs. It was neat to see all the Indian artifacts that have been found. I was really impressed by all the pottery they found intact. I have found pottery shards before while hiking around but never a full pot. After we found out it was ok if the dogs went in the back. we got James and headed around back to the replica of a pueblo home. We got to climb down into it and see how the Indians use to live. We were all starting to get a little warm so we headed to the car to crank up the AC. We headed to the Utah State University Native American studies exhibit to take a look at some of those. We hiked up to where there were some huts made out of trees branches. Abby thought it was funny that she could barely stand in the little huts. Then we walked up to a tower that over looks the south and west of Blanding. By this time Abby and James were getting a little pink in the face (I probably was too) and the dogs were done. Thank heavens for sun block SPF 70 :) We headed back to my Mom and Dad's for the night and James took Abby back out on the lake while I helped my Mom set up Skype on her computer. While they were out there it started to sprinkle. So they decided to come in, and perfect timing cause it was time to head out for dinner. We went to the MD Cookhouse in Monticello. It's changed a bit since I've lived there but it was still fun. Abby was so excited to have her drink in a mason jar. When we got our food Abby's wrap was as big as her head. It was fun watching her try and eat it. When we left the MD it was a complete downpour, Abby was kinda sad she didn't get to ride on the 4-Wheeler again. but we went home and played a little bit of the wii. She went to bed and I stayed up with Mom and Dad watching Battle LA. It was ok.Tuesday was the day we went home. It was tempting to try and figure out how to stay an extra day, but Abby's family was leaving for Montana on wed. So after breakfast Abby and James played the wii while I got ready for the day and then we both swapped turns so we could both play with the game with Abby while we packed up. After we got everything in the car, we said our goodbyes and headed out. We left fairly early so we could hit some of the sites on the way home. Our first stop was Wilson's Arch. It was overcast and nice we were thinking "why couldn't it have been this nice yesterday". We headed up to the arch to get a look. Then Abby and I walked to the end of the rock outcropping, it had started to rain again and once we got to the other side it was pouring. Luckily the rock offered some shelter from the rain. We decided to head on back. As we drove on the rain stopped, and by the time we got to Hole n' the rock it was once again nice weather no rain. We took Abby on the tour and then walked around the grounds exploring. We went and looked at the grave of the people who built the house in the rock I mean hole in the rock. We found some funny signs and a lot of antique things. We also bought some souvenirs. After we were done playing it was time to officially head home. We made a quick stop in Salt Lake at Erika's house to pick up the truck then headed home. For those of you who read this post all the way through I commend you, I really do. :) Here are some fun quotes from our trip...

“Is that Lisbon Valley?...WHAT!?! Lesbian Valley?”

“Crypto bionic soil…it’s a living soil. Oh I see Hello soil. I don’t think it speaks English. Oh ok Hola soil.”

“I can fix it all I need is a llama, zebra and some scotch tape. The scotch tape is to fix it and the zebra and llama are for my amusement.”

We got to hear many more fun things.

Monticello Vacation Part 1

2011-08-01T10:00:00.000-07:00

Yup we had so much fun I feel like I have to do this in 2 parts. :) Well as you know my parents have been home for a couple weeks now and this past weekend we got the chance to go down to Monticello for their homecoming. In the past Abby has asked to go to Monticello with us. So we invited her along. Since James and I haven't had a real getaway or vacation since 2009, I thought it would be fun to take a couple days off. So I took Friday and Tuesday off (I already had Monday off due to the Pioneer day holiday) Wednesday I was scrabbling to get things packed, cleaned and finished for Thursday. This unfortunately made me sleep in a little to long and made me miss the bus (oops). So I drove the truck into work, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise. At 1:00 I headed over to Erika's house to meet her and James there. James wasn't there so Erika and I ran to the store for some last minute items. By the time we got back James was there and him and Abby had kinda a rocky start. My parents usually have cats running all over their ranch to keep the mice and rat population down. But when they got home all the cats had gone. So I volunteered to bring them down some new kitties. 4 to be exact. So on the ride from Ogden the Erika's house Abby and James were trying to wrestle 4 cats and 2 dogs. (this is where the truck comes in as a blessing) Erika let us park the truck in her garage since her husband doesn't park the car in there anyway. So I was able to pull out the dog kennels and leave them in the truck, the dogs went over to Erika's van and we set up a flexible kennel ti sit on top of everything and we put the 2 youngest kittens in there. After gassing up we were on our way. All cats curled up and went to sleep, Abby was happy and talking away and James' frustration was starting to diminish. The drive down was a lot faster than what I thought it would be. We stopped for dinner in Wellington (about 1/2 way) and I jumped in with Erika to help her with her boys. We arrived at my parents house around 8:00ish. Just in time for dinner. :)My brother Byron and his wife Jill were already down at mom and dad's house. It was fun seeing them. James brought his telescope down and we got to show some people Saturn. We stayed at my parents house that night. Friday was a wide variety of things after breakfast I took Abby on the 4-wheeler up the mountain, I took her on a lot of the old roads and dirt paths I use to follow all the time when I lived there. She had a lot of fun and we saw some deer that were really close to us and they didn't spook as easily as they normally do. After awhile of that we went back to help fix the greenhouse James and I took turns so Abby wouldn't get to bored. He would take her on the 4-wheeler while I helped with the green house and vice versa. As the day went on Abby and I would take the 4-wheeler a little higher up the mountain. Abby wanted to drive but the steering was so stiff she couldn't turn it, so I would steer and she would push the gas. She had a lot of fun with that. As the night grew on we were expecting other family members to arrive while we waited James and I took Abby out on the lake with the dogs. She loved that too. We paddled around the lake for sometime then we headed in so James and the dogs could get out but so my dog Tukker could get in. Abby and I took a few more turns around the lake, then we heard voices so we headed in. Shelly and Nathan had arrived and it was time to go look at the place we were going to be staying. Mom and dad's friend had a cabin across the street that they use on occasion and they said we could use it. So Abby and I hopped on the 4-wheeler again and headed over the the cabin to meet Shelly and Nathan over there to take a look. As we were coming back we noticed that my other sister Kari and her husband David had arrived. We visited for awhile and had dinner, then after looking through the telescope some more we headed over to the other house to get all our stuff set up and get to bed.Saturday was the Pioneer Day festivities in Monticello. So we got up and started getting ready. I noticed that the shower was really hard to get the temperature I like. Most of it was either scalding hot or freezing cold. When Shelly got in it was doing the same thing to her and then it just went cold. Nathan went downstairs and discovered that the pilot light went out on the water heater. James had to go get a lighter wand so we could start it and the next little while was spent either down by the water heater to make sure it didn't go out again or being ready if someone yelled from the bathroom to light the pilot light again. :p it delayed us for awhile so we were a little late to the parade but not to bad. The whole family found a great seat on the stairs of the county building we joined them and Abby ran up to stand with Shaylee to pick up candy that was thrown their way. It was a good little parade this year, a lot more people were in the parade and there was some horses FINALLY! in a small town of farmers and ranchers you HAVE to have horses in the parade. :) They even had water. One of the baseball teams had made state and were riding on the firetruck and spraying everyone. It was fun.After the parade we all walked down to the park to look through all the booths and vendors that were there. I had made plans to meet my friends here for a visit. But I don't think we worked out enough specifics cause it didn't work out very well. I found my friend Camille. Then Rachele and Pam found us but Pam couldn't stay long cause she had family in town. Missed you Katie! After awhile longer of waiting my family started to leave and soon we were starting to get hungry and I didn't want Abby out in the heat for a long time without a lot of water. So I told them that we needed to go. We had plans with Shelly and Nathan for lunch. Between Shelly and Nathan and myself getting stopped by people to say hi or stopping people to say hi it took us a lot longer than what we thought to get out of there. But we made it through and headed over to the Wagon Wheel for some pizza. It felt so good to sit down. We did have a slight emergency; after we ordered James got a call he told me Toto ran away and left to go find him. I was kinda scared for a couple reasons #1 that Toto wouldn't be found and #2 we wouldn't be able to get back to mom and dad's. I called mom's house and found out that after some of the family got back to mom and dad's, they let the dogs out and Toto ran away. i think he was trying to find us and got scared when he couldn't and tried to find his way back to the cabin where we were staying or just tried to look for us. When James got there they pointed him in the direction that Toto ran and he went to find him. As soon as Toto heard his voice he came running right up to James. He put him in the cabin where we were staying and headed back into town for pizza and then shakes at the shake shack. It was scary but I am very glad that Toto was ok. Later that night everyone came over for dinner. It was nice to sit and visit with everyone some more. Abby started to talk more and more, I think she was starting to feel more comfortable. My family loved it. After dinner we all headed back into town for the fireworks. We camped out on the grass in front of the hospital to watch. it was a very good show this year.After the fireworks it was back to mom and dad's for more star gazing fun with James' telescope. After James and Abby went back to the cabin I stayed at my parents house to put some laundry in the dryer (needed those Sunday clothes) I got to talk with my niece Lindsay for a good long time. After the clothes were in the dryer I went back to the cabin and found everyone in the upstairs loft watching Josh and Becca dance. :) It was fun, Josh danced to Thriller, Grease Lightning and many other songs. Then James did a little demonstration of his martial arts skills due to a request. You cant say no to Josh's big puppy dog eyes. :) We danced and laughed till we couldn't anymore. We all limped to bed...with the exception of James who took his telescope out to look at Jupiter.

Blessed Honored Pioneer

2011-07-24T08:44:00.000-07:00

Here in Utah we celebrate the day the Mormon pioneers came to Utah. Because of persecutions and extreme prejudice against the LDS religion and it's people. The pioneers had to leave the area that they built up from a swamp to a beautiful city called Nauvoo. After leaving Nauvoo they faced bitter cold, blistering heat, Indians, and wild animals. They lost valuable oxen, cows and horses that helped pull wagons. They lost loved ones that they had to bury along the road in unmarked graves. The fought their way across the country before they stood overlooking what we now know as the Salt Lake valley, then a barren dessert wasteland. They heard the Prophet Brigham Young proclaim "This is the place, drive on". Through hard work, faith and prayers the pioneers turned this dry dessert into a beautiful city. By direction through the prophet the pioneers not only founded Salt Lake City, but St. George, Cedar City, Bluff, Brigham City, Heber, Coalsville, and many other city's here in Utah and even city's in Idaho, Colorado, Wyoming, Nevada and Arizona. I am so thankful for the pioneers and for all the trials and tribulations they went through for their God and their right to freely worship how they choose without persecution and the fear of mobs and angry people knocking on their doors. I am so thankful for a loving heavenly father who watches over and protects us.

Catching up

2011-07-20T09:01:00.000-07:00

Well a lot has happened since I posted last. I need to go back before my birthday
July 12- Mom and dad Came home. I was in class when their flight flew in. But later that night James and I went over to Nancy and Gary's for a swim party and to see mom and dad. It was so much fun to see Mom and Dad and to talk with them. They came a little late so we had the chance to visit with other members of the family. Then when they came everyone had a chance to visit with them and say hello. After dinner mom and dad passed out gifts from Ecuador. It was fun to see what everyone got and to hear the stories behind them. It was a little weird seeing Mom and Dad. It felt normal but not at the same time since it has been awhile since I've seen them face to face. All in all it was a great day and really fun to see them.July 13- I got a call from Mom asking if I've had lunch yet. Her and Kari surprised me by coming and getting me for lunch. We walked to the gateway to go to Applebee's. It was nice to spend that one on one time with them. Mom and Dad were leaving the next day to go home to Monticello.July 15- My birthday! :) Okay so I did work on my birthday but only a half day. I went home around 1:00 James and I went out to do a little window shopping, both for things we want and need. Then he surprised me by taking me out to dinner and the 1 thing I have been asking for and craving for about 2 years. He got for me. :) LOBSTER! :) It was so good, I was pretty stoked that I got it. After dinner we went to fat cats and went bowling. We both haven't been bowling in a long time, it was nice. Kinda felt like we were dating again. The night was getting kinda late so we went fro ice cream and went home to cuddle up to a movie. What a great Birthday.
July 16- The birthday festivities continued, we picked up our niece Abby and went to the 7th Harry Potter part 2 WAHOOO!It was such a good movie maybe even my favorite one yet. I think they did a fairly good job following the book. Cant wait to see it again. After the movie we dropped off Abby and went to Mindful Women's. James had bought me a massage and I changed it to Saturday so it could be a couples massage. It was really nice to spend that time with him. This whole weekend has felt like we just took time to reconnect. No work, no school, just us spending time together. After the massage we did need to do some homework. So we went out to Mom and Dad A. house to do some home work.
July 17- Sunday dinner was at Kim and Gordy's house and it was a dinner of my choice. :) We had kabobs, asparagus, potatoes and then chocolate cake for dessert. The whole family pitched in to get me a new cover for my kindle...since my homemade one was starting to fall apart.It's exactly the one I wanted too. It has a light that pulls out of the top right corner so I can read my kindle in the dark. The light doesn't have any battery's that I have to change it all goes off the kindle battery. They also got me so scrapbook stuff, clips and a few e books for my kindle. :) This Sunday was also the Sunday of the Weber State Fireworks. So everyone who was going packed up and we all headed to the campus to watch the fireworks. If you have never been to this firework show it is SO good. They have a live sympathy playing and the Air Force brings in a Howitzer(sp?) cannon that they shoot off while the fireworks are going. It's such a good show. What a great birthday weekend.

It's My Birthday!

2011-07-15T09:29:00.000-07:00

So James and I are big How I Met your Mother fans. We so far have every season and as soon as this last season comes out we'll have it too. This episode has been running through my head for the past couple of days. :) the sound is a little weird cause the person that posted the you tube video edited a lot of the background sound. Anyway enjoy! :)

P.S. I did this earlier today :)

Forever 29

2011-07-15T08:19:00.000-07:00

My friend Katie did this on her birthday and I thought it would be fun. I thought I was going to be a little sad on my 29th birthday but so far it's been a nice day. :) Well I've learned a lot and experienced a lot in my 29 years, and though I'm not where I pictured myself being at this age, I still have a lot of years left to get where I want to be. So here are 29 little known facts about me...

1.I secretly love girlie things ( I am even coming around to pink)
2.I love the color Orange
3.I love learning new things, aside from school I am playing around with photography.
4. If I could I would do nothing but craft ALL DAY! I love trying new ideas and concept and making things look pretty.
5. I am an extremely slow reader ( I am still reading Pride and Prejudice and it's been 3 years since I started), but I love to read.
6. My sisters in law, niece and husband started a book club which has helped me branch out in my reading genres.
7. I love movies. I would be at a new movies every Friday night if we had the money.
8. Love anything Disney...with the exception of Winnie the Pooh. He kinda freaks me out.
9. Love horses (I'm sure EVERYONE knows that.)
10. I am color blind (not in the literal sense) I cant pair colors that match for the life of me.
11. I love shoes but hate to wear them. Jewelry is a guilt pleasure and I wish I had more style.
12. I NEVER forget people. I may forget their names but I never forget a face, and the role they played in my life. Seriously I have stories from kids in Kindergarten.
13. I have a hard time with the concept of mean people. I just cant understand why it's hard to be nice.
14. I have a hard time lying. Especially with a direct question. But I feel I do have tact.
15. I am an 80's music JUNKIE.
16. I have A LOT of collections and have a few more that I want to start.
17. I do really well with horses, dogs and other animals. People have a hard time believing me on this but I just understand them and know how to work with them.
18. I want a room in my house with Big fluffy leather couches that when I sit down it will eat me and the walls will be nothing but books.
19. My niece Lexi and I are so close in age and looks that people think we are twins. compliment for me..I think an insult for her. :p
20. On my 18th birthday I went and got a tattoo on my left shoulder blade of a black panther. I still don't regret it and think it still looks good to this day. Oh and I paid for it in one dollar bills from my tips I had made at Denny's.
21. When I was little I was playing under the frame of our hot house when I thought I cleared the beam, I didn't and when I stood up a framing nail went in m head. Luckily I was short so no real bad damage just a bad wound. :) I have been accident prone since.
22. I am an Inuyasha geek
23.I think my hair and eyes are my best feature and I try to stay Positive cause I cant stand negativity. It's one of my pet peeves.
24. I stopped drinking Caffeine. I haven't had a diet coke in about 4 or 5 months.
25. two of my very best friends growing up was my niece Lexi and my other niece Erika
26 I have 28 nieces and nephews (counting both sides) and one on the way and I am a great aunt to 4 cute kids. The oldest is 26 the youngest is 2 months old.
27. I am a HUGE Harry Potter fan. I got my friend hooked to it, and I got James, Nikki and Abby hooked to it too. :) Also a fairly big Twilight fan. Bigger Harry Potter fan though
28. I love to go rock crawling in Southern Utah. We use to plan everything around Jeep Safari...til we had to sell the Jeep.
29. I don't turn 29 (officially) till 5:02 PM :)

Hope you enjoyed these 29 facts. Now I am going to clock out from work and go home to celebrate. :)
Thanks for Reading!

Guess What!?!

2011-07-13T11:39:00.001-07:00

Dear Mom and Dad:
Remember I got into Middle school and how excited I was? Remember how I brought home my first (and not last) F? Remember how you had to ground me for all my sophomore year and even the summer after because I wouldn't go to school and got F after F? Remember the frustrating fights and discussions, the trying to understand why? Remember how Dad thought Bribery would work? (A -$10 B-$5 C-$2 D&F $0) Remember the early morning long line to get me into Summer School just so I would pass my 10th grade year?

Dear Shelly and Nathan:
Remember helping night after night doing my homework? Remember helping get through those ugly pink, purple and maroon packets so I could finally graduate high school by the skin of my teeth?

WELL...THIS IS FOR YOU ...

"Dear Student:

Congratulations, we want to notify you that you have made the Dean's List for the Fall 2010 semester by maintaining a GPA of at least a 3.70 or higher while attending full time..."

JAMES AND I BOTH MADE THE DEANS LIST!!!!!!!!!!!! :D

Sunday Thoughts

2011-07-11T11:39:00.000-07:00

So this is a little late and I apologize. With my parents coming home TODAY! my mind hasn't been in reality lately. :) But my Sunday thought this week is about Forever Families. This Sunday we had a missionary come home. he told us a story about a family that found a plaque that they liked at a thrift store that said Families are Forever. They had a friend who was a member that got to talk to them about the plaque and they invited the missionaries in their home. With my parents coming home I have been experiencing a lot of different emotions. Excitement of course, anxiety and nervous, saying a lot of prayers for their safety. (I do worry A LOT). I tend to think of the most extreme cases...I'm not sure why. But as I was thinking about my life, my family and my husband I am so grateful that families are forever.

In the LDS religion we believe that we don't have to be parted by death. We believe that through that proper authority and the sealing power that can be obtained in the temples of the Lord. Families can be sealed and bound together in this life on earth as well as the life to come. Forever Families. I know this is true and this knowledge has helped me get through the death of both my grandparents, a niece, and my own baby. To know that I can see them again in the next life and get to know them. There is nothing more comforting when you are faced with the death of a loved one.
I know our Heavenly Father loves us, and wants us to return to live with him. I know he wants nothing but Happiness for ALL his children. I know that families can be together forever. I am thankful that James and I have each other for eternity as well as our future family. I love the gospel of Jesus Christ with all my heart. I love my Savior Jesus Christ and I know that he gave his life so that we can live with him and the father again. I know that we have a living prophet today and that he is the mouth piece of the Lord. I know that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is the true church on this earth and that it truly is Christ's church. This is my testimony that I bare to you in the name of Jesus Christ himself. Amen

For more information about this topic and many more. Please click here.

Less than a week

2011-07-06T08:34:00.000-07:00

CAN YOU BELIEVE IT! Well no you probably wont be able to till I tell you. :p My parents have been serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints for the past 18 months. they have been at the Guayaquil Ecuador temple mission. In less than one week they will be home. That's right! Next Tuesday July 12 at 10:30 AM they will be flying in to the Salt Lake International Airport. YAY! The time has seemed so long and yet short at the same time. I haven't been able to talk to my parents (besides a very short broken up phone conversation) since last year. Senior missionaries are different then the younger missionaries. They get to talk to family more often. We usually used Skype. But their hard drive crashed on their computer and that put an end to skyping. So I am excited to be able to see/talk to them again. Love you Mom and Dad