JenofSept

And So it Goes

2012-01-29T14:34:00.000-08:00

I wanted to get rid of the Christmas picture of the temple, and then I had to change my background...and then I decided I couldn't do that without posting something!
I can start a countdown--I am going to UT March 1-6. I am excited about that. Becky had a baby, Caleb, and so the blessing will be on that Sun. Darlene's stake is having a Women's Conference with someone exciting (Sis Beck or Sis Dew she wasn't sure--I am good with either and look forward to the message.) And who knows what else will happen while I am up there! I hope the weather stays good for the drive as I will be driving. I will stop in Blanding on the way there.
Work continues to be busy. AZ is starting to get a little too warm for me. I have decided I REALLY like seasons. Good weather all the time gets boring!
I have been using the public library a lot lately. I like to go on-line and request books, that way I don't have to hunt for them. I just finished Peeps by Scott Westerfeld. It was good. Too much info. on parasites if you ask me, but that's ok. I am waiting on a few books suggested by my brother. (The Woman in Black and some other book I can't remember the name..school for paranormals or something.)
Other than that...I am working on something that I will announce when I get more details :-)

A New Year

2012-01-01T14:10:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! I did not make it to midnight, mostly because I value my sleep when I have had a cold and have church at 8:30. I did hear Kaitlyn shout "Happy New Year" and there were some fireworks that went off in the neighborhood. Then I promptly went back to sleep. I am so old! It did make me miss TX, because the neighborhood would have some pretty good fireworks. Just one reason to miss TX.
I am not the best at making New Years Resolutions--there are things I want to do better and be better at so that is my goal this year. To more prayerfully accomplish things that will make me more Christlike.
I did not go to the single adult activity. It was a dance and I really feel silly going to a dance by myself. So this week I will go to the Temple at the time other singles are going. Isn't that a better place to meet people anyway? Still can't really talk but that is ok.
Work has been going really well. I am quite busy and my days are getting more booked in advanced---which means that people like my massages! YEAH!!! Makes me feel good.
Not much going on in my life--just the daily grind of life. I guess I have getting my taxes done as something to look forward to. I wonder how much money I will get back. Let's hope a lot!!! I will take myself to Utah and go shopping in Park City. Sounds fun!
Happy 2012! (As a kid that sounded so sci-fi to me and here we are...still no flying cars.)

Family Time

2011-12-10T19:09:00.001-08:00

Over Thanksgiving break my whole family was here! We had to take a picture! Back in Sept. there was a JC Penny groupon so I got it. I am glad we did this. Larry sadly was in the hospital over the break...so we missed him in the picture. Kaijsa is being difficult and wouldn't come see us. So, that is why two people are missing. And I have no idea how to get everyone to smile at the same time. For some reason the cd I got only has this one pic on it. No one ordered this pic....maybe I will scan the ones we got..but not tonight. I have had 2 long days at work which means I am tired and grumpy.

I have been working for 3 weeks now. It has been good. I have been busy. I used to only do 3 massages and then need a break. I am trying to do 4 hrs. and then a break. IT is pretty hard on me. The girls up front that book us don't pay attention to your limit so I am constantly reminding them to change it for me. I like the people I work with. I take a book with me and that keeps me happy for down time. This office is much more stat obsessive. I have 3 things I am supposed to be watching and I can't even remember what one of them is. O-well. I figure if I do a good job people will come to me and it won't be a big deal. I need to get myself a massage and a tub for my arms to do an ice bath. I can't neglect myself or I won't be working! I have Sun and Wed off...and then every other Sat. It is a good schedule.

I have most of my Christmas shopping done. A few things I still want to get. I love this time of year, but it seems to be going too fast. I should have started listening to Christmas music in Oct.

No big things coming up....just work. I'll take it.

Cake Boss

2011-11-09T08:13:00.000-08:00

I have watched Cake Boss for a few years. I am just amazed at how Buddy can get cakes to be so amazing! When his book came out last year I had to read it, but I have not attempted any of the recipes. Rachel had to go to New York last week for work. She was able to give herself time to go to Hoboken New Jersey to see Carlos Bakery..so jealous. But she loved me enough to come back with these:The lovely packaging--

The goodies inside: Chocolate and regular canolis. The chocolate are better, but they are soooo tasty! A chocolate mousse cake (it was ok....not my favorite) a chocolate truffle (SO GOOD-- maybe even better than the canoli. I need to taste it again to decide) and lobster tails. The lobster tails were ok. I mostly wanted them because after reading the book I learned how HARD it is to make the dough. Good, but I liked the others better.

and then me enjoying every bite. (Who cares that I was sick and should have waited!)

Maybe I will need to find me a guy from this area of the world so Buddy can make me a cake...here's to dreaming!
Thanks sis--loved every bite!

Utah

2011-10-28T10:01:00.000-07:00

I had a lovely time in Utah mid-Oct. So good to see family and friends. Mostly what I did was set up lunch or dinner dates with friends-- that way I was sure to get in my friend time and favorite Utah places (Zuppas, Cafe Rio, Brick Oven) and I was introduced to Yogurt Stop-- SO GOOD! You get to build your own yogurt concoction and man I do a good job! Maricopa has a Yogurt Jungle which is the same..

Life keep plugging away. I can finally say AZ weather is getting nice. The mornings are cool and the days are under 95 now! YEAH!!!

I am just waiting on a background check and THEN I will finally have my massage license. This has taken forever! But I am very happy with the classes I got to take. I feel like a better therapist now. I will work at Massage Envy...because... I am filling out mission papers! I hope to leave before March. It is crazy, but I am so excited.

Pics of Kauai

2011-10-03T11:04:00.000-07:00

I guess SLIDE is no longer doing slide shows so this is how you get to see some more of my pics. I got them from Darlene. I am going to make a scrapbook so if you want to see the whole trip...come see me!

Kauai Day 9

2011-09-24T20:43:00.000-07:00

I was the first to leave--Darlene and her Dad flew home on Sunday. But we had to leave the time-share and they were going back to the cousins home. We got to go to a few more shops...and that was about it! When at the cousins I saw these cute critters:

And this was my send-off view from the time share

I think we saw 3-4 rainbows the whole stay. I miss Ono Shaved Ice. And the cooler weather!
I really had a wonderful time! Aloha!

Kauai Day 8

2011-09-24T20:32:00.001-07:00

This was Friday-- the last full day on the island. And it rained. I kind of liked it. So, we had seen so much we decided to shop this day. It was fun. We got some good deals on things because it was "sidewalk sale" day. Not sure if that happens every weekend or not (like the going out of business sign that is there year round for us silly vacationers) but it was successful for all of us! Due to shopping we got to tour most of the island too! I really wanted to see a sea turtle--so we went to Poipu beach. And I saw a HUGE sea turtle! (Again need pics from Darlene so I can prove it.) There were several chickens at this beach:

and lots of Plumeria:

They smell so good!!!
Thankfully it did stop raining so we could enjoy this beach. It was really rocky so not much fun for swimming, but still beautiful!
This night we watched "Soul Surfer". It was fun to watch as most of it was filmed on Kauai (as that is where she is from!) I recognized a lot of the places. Great movie.
Good times in Kauai!

Kauai Day 7

2011-09-22T13:53:00.000-07:00

Another beautiful day. We decided to drive south for this day. We saw the Spouting Horn

This also had a great place to shop! I love the cheap jewelry! But it is so nice!
I also had to try a Puka Dog. This place had polish sausages...wrapped in a bun...I chose a pineapple salsa and Hawaiian sauce. SO GOOD!

I loved the yellow hibiscus all over the island.

Then we went up to the Waimea Canyon-- the grand canyon of Hawaii

Now that I live in AZ I guess I should go visit the actual Grand Canyon!
Then we got to see views of the island like this:

and then some hydrangea:

Such a beautiful place.

Kauai Day 6

2011-09-22T13:38:00.000-07:00

We got up EARLY today. We had to drive to the southern end of the island for our boat tour. I wish I had brought a jacket or sweatshirt with me. I was just so excited for cooler weather I didn't think I would be cool! Anyhow we got to said boat place at 6 AM. We launched about 6:30. We got to have a nice breakfast on the Catamaran. All of us took some dramamine as we left which was a good thing. Poor Darlene should have had more. It was a pretty ride out. They moved quick... we got to stop and watch the Spinner Dolphins. I think we saw about 20 of them. So beautiful! That was really great for me as I LOVE dolphins. We also saw a lot of flying fish--so COOL! We went to around the Na Pali coast. SO beautiful. So many movies have been filmed on Kauai. The guy showed us where the recent Pirates movie was filmed. We went back really slow so we could get good pictures. (Darlene will someday send me those.) The water was so BLUE!!!
We then went to a place where the top of a volcano comes out of the water. This is where we snorkled. Saw some amazing fish. A Sea Lion came to check us out and swam below us. COOL! Then we got to see the "forbidden island" It is a very private island and you really have to be special or $$ to go to it.
The way back-- we went through a place where 3 currents came together. Darlene and I were at the very back of the boat because she had been a little sick on the way out...I was bouncing around like CRAZY! It was fun for me-- like a roller coaster. I made the guys nervous so they finally found a place for me to sit so I wouldn't go flying off the boat (and I really came close 2-3 times.) Darlene's Dad said the waves had to be 20 feet high in some places! I have no idea. The water kept spraying me so I had my eyes closed. I just know it was intense!
Next to the boat charter place was a chocolate factory. YUM!!! I got some great chocolate---I want more!
We went back to our timeshare. It was a "7 hour tour".
A wonderful Day! I can't wait to see the pictures!

Kauai Day 5

2011-09-14T13:47:00.000-07:00

Tuesday--we decided to go kayaking up the Waimea River. Darlene's cousins had the kayaks YEAH!

Darlene and I shared and her Dad went by himself. It was a nice day--the river was calm. I enjoy kayaking. We decided to go straight to the Fern Grotto. It was so beautiful!

I loved the flowers. They were my favorite part of the island.
When coming out of the grotto we met a couple who said the falls that we could kayak to had a ton of people there... so we decided to skip that. The way back down the river was nice. EXCEPT---I discovered my camera was in my ziploc bag--swimming in water. Not sure how the water got in, but it did and it killed my camera. SADNESS- not even rice could save it. I didn't think about using my phone as a camera until towards the end of the trip. Darlene has some good shots but she is still in possession of them.
The pics job my memory--and so I don't remember what else we did this day. We went to bed early because day 6 started EARLY!

Kauai day 3

2011-08-28T16:14:00.001-07:00

Monday, Monday--I bet this was the best Monday I have ever had! Again the chickens woke me up...and I enjoyed the quiet of the morning. We had a "get to know the island" by the time-share people. This was quit informative and we got a lot of great tips on where to eat and what to see. The best part was at the end they gave away coupons--Darlene was able to steel an answer from someone that had already won-- and we won a discount on a boat tour (details to be in day 5)!! This was the prize I wanted so I was super excited she could get it! We decided to get lunch at a place we were told to go and go to the North end of the island. For lunch we had rice some meat with a fried egg on top with gravy. It was really good! Different, but good. I think the meat was like a Salisbury steak.
We drove to Tunnels Beach

There was a guy that got in the ocean with his electric car key (and only electric). Darlene's Dad saved the day by driving him back to where he was staying so he could figure things out from there. (His wife and kids not so happy, but thankful for a kind stranger.)
We also got to see the Dry Cave

and the Wet Cave

Now one of these was from Raiders of the Lost Ark--when the giant rock is rolling after Harrison Ford!
This is the northern most accessible area of the island. Hikers can begin their hike of the Na Pali coast here. The guy at the timeshare said it was a 12 on a 1 to 10 scale. Needless to say not on our agenda.
While we were swimming in the ocean a group of people were staring our direction saying "look!". Now that is NOT something I want to hear when in the water...I looked for a shark fin (Remember Soul Surfer's shark attack was on this island.) and didn't see one, and then a guy said there was a sea turtle near us. That still kind of freaked me out, and then I looked for it and couldn't find it.
We went back to the timeshare and swam in the pool and sat in the HOT tub (110* at least!). We enjoyed a yummy Chinese salad from Costco. And then drove to a lookout spot for the sunset

Perfect ending to a perfect day!

Kauai day 2

2011-08-25T20:24:00.000-07:00

Day two of Kauai was a Sunday. We didn't have church until 1 so we got to sleep in... meaning the chickens woke me up around 4 and it was then 7 AZ time.. but I slept on and off until 7:30ish I think. I was usually the first one up, which was fine with me. I would sit on the balcony, eat a yogurt, and just enjoy quiet time.
We had a lovely pancake breakfast and got ready. We did some sight-seeing. We saw a waterfall or two.

We went to Anini Beach

If you have seen Soul Surfer I really think there was a shot of this beach. It has a lot of trees up to it. We never did go back and swim there.. bummer. Another time.
And we also went to Kilauea Light House

We didn't get any closer to the light house because it cost and we didn't want to pay! But it was so lovely from there!
We stopped along the way and had a picnic lunch. Then it was time for church. I just love how in Hawaii you respond to "Aloha" when the person speaking says hello. Just so friendly. It rained some while we were in our meetings. Then my friend, Darlene, has some "cousins" (a distant relation) that we went to see. A family of 4 boys. A BEATUIFUL home that sits on the Wailua River. We had dinner with them. They are also close to the beach and a park so we took a stroll during sunset. The clouds had lifted some so we could see Mount Waialeale--which is the wettest spot on earth! It gets close to 500 inches of rain a year!!

This is a tourist pineapple tree. The fruit on it looks like it is a pineapple, but it really isn't. I suppose all of us "mainlanders" get confused a lot!
Another wonderful day in Kauai.

Kauai day 1

2011-08-23T13:41:00.000-07:00

I guess now that I have been home 3 weeks I should tell a little about my trip to Hawaii. Darlene & I took a summer trip last year, so we of course had to do it again this year! Her parents have a time-share so we asked if we could use a week and they said YES!. I think we started planning in January of where we wanted to go. Since I was living in TX at the time we thought of going to Savannah, Georgia or the Houston, TX area. When I moved in May to AZ we thought of going to Sedona, AZ....but why go there when you can go to Hawaii?! So, we decided on Kauai. (Best decision!)
I flew out on Sat.--I arrived in Kauai about 1:15 in the afternoon so we basically had a half day. Darlene's Dad came with us because the car and time-share were in his name. Lihue is about 1 hr. from Princeville where we were staying so we started the trip with a slow drive of the island. Our first stop was ACE--now in the mainland ACE is for hardware, but not so in Hawaii. It has EVERYTHING! Darlene needed scrapbooking tape and that is where you get it!
The next stop was a MUST-- Ono Shaved Ice--seriously the best shaved ice on the island. For $3 you get a ginormous snow cone! I had tropical flavors, Darlene had a rootbeer float.

Then we drove on to our time-share. We were some of the first to get there so we were lucky enough to get beach mats, camping chairs, and a body board. They even had movies that were filmed on the island. We got Jurassic Park. This was the view from our balcony.

I had read on-line about a sand-castle making contest at Hanalei Bay so we decided to see if we could catch the end of it. We didn't but we did really enjoy the beach!

The musical "South Pacific" was filmed here. This was the beach where the girl sang, "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Out of My Hair". Fun!!! The water was warm. Just so beautiful!
To end the night we went to Kalypso. We had coconut shrimp (SO GOOD!) and I had fish tacos (Not the best I have ever eaten but so good!) And then we had some grasshopper icecream pie to end it all.
I was actually a little cool this night. Being used to 110+ heat I was so GRATEFUL for 80* weather. Ah... sounds so nice.
The island is beautiful. I couldn't get over how green everything was. I miss that color! The humidity didn't bother me too much. And the noises of the night were nice. A piece of heaven on earth!

Thirty!!

2011-08-16T16:29:00.001-07:00

I made it to the LAST of my themed posts! YEAH for me!

A picture of the person you miss the most:

Did you really expect a different person? I sure miss my Mom. No one can take a mother's place. Sure, I have mother-like figures, but none of them compare to my own mother. I know I am blessed to be able to call her mother. I look forward to the day when I can be with her again. I know she looks out for me. And I am sure she still rolls her eyes at me. I try not to be envious of my friends who get to talk to their own mothers all the time-- or go on trips to see their moms...mothers and daughters have a special bond. Love you Mom!

Twenty-nine

2011-08-09T16:45:00.001-07:00

Day 29 - A picture that can always make you smile

Any picture of my Dad growing up makes me smile. His glasses always crack me up...and then to see him have hair. I have known him to "always" have gray hair or no hair. I just love my Dad. He is a trooper and loves his kids!

Twenty-eight

2011-07-29T07:11:00.000-07:00

A picture of something you're afraid of

I really do hate spiders. Last summer we had a black/yellow garden spider in front of the house--right by the door. It got so big! But it became Dad's pet because of the bugs it would eat. I saw it eat a grasshopper. I guess as long as they don't come near me I am okay, but YUCK! Even looking for images made my skin crawl!

Twenty-Seven

2011-07-18T20:10:00.001-07:00

A picture of yourself and a family member

At last! A post about my dear brother! Growing up he was Andy. In college he became Drew. It took me awhile to adjust. One of my first memories of him....he was going to school and I didn't get to go too. I ran around the house trying to kiss him and he wouldn't let me catch him! Shame!
I remember writing him on mission that was nice. It wasn't until I went to college and he lived close again that we became friends.
I love playing games with him. The ultimate gamer! Well.... I do not enjoy learning to play games with him. Sometimes it is like "Calvinball". I swear he makes the rules count when I do something wrong...never him! LOL.
I like that he works at a library so he can pass along advance reader copies of books :-)
He would be an even Better brother if he would come down for Thanksgiving/his birthday!!! HINT HINT!
Love you Drew!

twenty-six

2011-07-03T09:53:00.000-07:00

A picture of something that means a lot to you

Almost 11 years ago I received my endowments in the Mt. Timpanogos Temple. It was a special day. My whole family was there with me. Mom was my escort. I was with several other girls that day, but they were there because they were getting married. I was there because it was the right time for me. Sadly I have no idea where the pictures of that day are. Since then I have LOVED going to the temple. I can go and feel such peace. I come away feeling so grounded in such a crazy world. I am so grateful to have since lived close to a temple.I LOVE the Temple!!!

This is because of the holiday tomorrow, but I also love my country. I feel blessed to have had a grandfather and father who have served in the military. I know I am blessed to live in this promised land. So grateful for men and women who keep me safe.

Twenty-five

2011-06-27T15:08:00.000-07:00

A picture of your day

I play with these cute kids all day.

Twenty-four

2011-06-19T15:12:00.000-07:00

A picture of something you wish you could change
I don't know.... why change something when you learned from it. Or why put a picture up of something when if I had money or motivation it COULD change. So this is a dumb one for me.
Ok. Today I would change that the nieces and nephew went to bed past 8:00 and today at stake conference they were terrors....and I can't wait for bedtime tonight!

Twenty-Three

2011-06-16T11:58:00.000-07:00

A picture of your favorite book

Of course this is my number one! But for a non-religious book I picked the series:

I have read these books several times. I just LOVE THEM!!!

twenty-two

2011-06-12T19:02:00.000-07:00

A picture of something you wish you were better at

There are lots of things I would like to be better at: baking, card making, exercise, temple attendance, PATIENCE, but today I want to be better at being still and listening.

Twenty-one

2011-06-06T14:14:00.000-07:00

A picture of something you wish you could forget
Well I don't know how to find a picture of something I would like to forget...so how about the beginning lyrics to a song I wish I could forget--
"Baby Got Back"
Oh, my, god. Becky, look at her butt....
I like big butts and I can not lie
You other brothers can't deny
That when a girl walks in with an itty bitty waist
And a round thing in your face

The Summer this song came out my friends on the swim team listened to it over and over on the way to El Dorado for a swim meet. I learned all of the words by the end. What was I thinking?!!! ah teenagers.

Twenty

2011-05-30T09:19:00.000-07:00

A picture of somewhere you'd love to travel

I would love to go to Bora Bora... and when I go I will stay in a room over the water like this!!! So this would only work if I were to be married. So here is a more realistic picture of a place I would love to travel to that would not require a man with me.

Austria. I saw the HBO movie Band of Brothers. When they were in Austria I fell in love with the scenery. Maybe Darlene and I will go there in 5 years... I have to save and renew my passport.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Life is settling down in AZ. I have hit up some yard sales and found a nice wood dresser and bed frame... and then I found a bookshelf and lamp... and then I went and bought a bed! I really like my new mattress. So, I am mostly organized (just necklaces to figure out what to do with...). Feels more homey.

Larry does have Leukemia. He is in the hospital. Several blood transfusions. He seems to be getting better. Let's hope so. I know he wants to be home for his birthday. Rachel and I just want him to come home in a good state.

Getting more used to the kids. Still love 7:00 and bedtime! 5:30 comes way too early!

Got to see Pirates of the Caribbean 4. I really liked it. I just love Johnny Depp in that role. As always it leaves with a thought of another one. Not sure the clip at the very end was worth waiting through all the credits, but it was fun.

Happy Memorial Day!

Nineteen

2011-05-22T09:08:00.000-07:00

A picture of you when you were little

Weren't we cute? I wish Mom had kept those dresses...I wonder if she made them. I really don't remember a lot of my childhood... I would say this picture was taken in Pennsylvania as that is where I was born and we didn't move to Kansas until I was almost 4. Since my almost 2 year old niece looks so similar I would say I was 2ish in this picture...my second Christmas perhaps?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Now an update on my life in Arizona. We have been blessed with a "cold front" this past week. That has saved me. I don't mind the 70's and low 80's. I do love the cool nights. BUT I would say that is about over as this week is in the upper 90's low 100s. Time to hit the pool!

I looked at lds.org and my records have been changed to here.... so I guess I will become the newest member of the Maricopa 5th Ward today. I always look forward to new callings...wonder how long that will take. It is a really young family ward. Since Phoenix has so many mid-singles (30's-40's) I figure I will try to go to some activities....when life calms down.

I got to call 911 this week. Larry wasn't doing well so Rachel had me call them. He is now in the hospital. What we thought was routine pain issues with him has turned into a possibility of Leukemia. He should have a bone marrow test tomorrow. There is definitely something going on with his blood....

Kait had a GREAT play. She did so well as Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz. She also celebrated her 14th birthday! Love her.

Today Kins turns 4. She is a cutie... Lots of treats around here. That keeps me happy.

I would say I am adjusting ok. I have a lot of patience to learn. And I love when the kids go to bed and I can calm down and relax.

Looking forward to Dad coming out this next weekend!

Eighteen

2011-05-08T09:31:00.000-07:00

A picture of your biggest insecurity

Currently I know that I need to lose 30 pounds... that is 10 pounds a year I have gained since my Mom passed away. I put on a dress yesterday and I looked so pregnant. It was pretty sad... so yeah, this is my biggest insecurity right now. Got to find my inner motivation and eat right, and exercise.... I think it is because I am in my mid-30's...harder to lose weight... and being a massage therapist I thought the weight would fall off. Nope not a chance! Of course the extra weight has been helpful for doing deep tissue... but still. Need to get rid of it!!! And then the space between my teeth can be my insecurity again.

Seventeen

2011-05-01T08:24:00.001-07:00

A picture of something that has made a huge impact on your life recently

Yes, two posts in one day! Which really means I have no idea when I will get a chance to do this again.
Why I chose this picture-- I moving to AZ to live with these crazy people! lol. I love my sisters family! I am getting more excited as the days draw near, just a lot to do before NEXT WEEK!
Reasons why I am moving there:
Larry-- When in TX I was massaging him once a week and he was really doing well. I hope that by being able to do this again that he can have some restoration of health.
Rachel-- going to school? Working? She needs her sister to help with the little things.
Kaijsa-- Love her hate her choices.
Kaitlyn-- We are going to read together. Maybe even COOK together!
Kira--I got nothing.. love her too.
Kamden, Kinsee, Kaileigh, Kallen-- all lumped together cause I love those little ones and I look forward to watching them GROW!

Sixteen

2011-05-01T08:18:00.000-07:00

A picture of someone who inspires you

I decided to go with Sheri Dew. She really is amazing. I haven't read any of her books recently... I need to change that. I love her for the way she is happy and positive. Yes, she is single and still amazing! I really miss hearing her speak in General Conference. I like how she knows how to study a topic and learn. I have really learned a lot from her.

Fifteen

2011-04-25T11:06:00.000-07:00

A picture of something you want to do before you die

I want to go deep sea fishing in Alaska-- for halibut. I just think Alaska would be a great place to visit... and you can't go and not fish! People that I know that have done this have had fish to eat for a long time! I think it would be fun... who wants to go with me?

Fourteen

2011-04-20T08:59:00.000-07:00

A picture of someone you could never imagine your life without

I have the BEST dad EVER!!! He is a good man. He is funny and I have loved all my years living with him. He is so easy going. There is nothing he wouldn't do for his kids. He was a great husband too. My Mom was blessed to have this man at her side.

Thirteen

2011-04-17T06:50:00.000-07:00

A picture of your favorite band or artist

Lady Antebellum-- I really enjoy their music. I have seen them in concert twice...very good.

Twelve

2011-04-15T08:18:00.000-07:00

A picture of something you love

I LOVE dark chocolate lava cakes...with vanilla ice cream. When I was on my Carnival Cruise 3 years ago I discovered this. I had it every night at dinner. Now I make them myself... I think I need one NOW! YUMMY!!!!!

Eleven

2011-04-10T18:38:00.000-07:00

A picture of something you hate

I can not stand cheating.... when in school it would drive me crazy when I knew about people cheating... especially in massage school. I would work so hard for my grades so I felt like everyone else should have to do the same! The other day Rachel, Larry and I were talking about someone cheating--and it started to get me riled up again! So I guess that is what I hate. Someone getting ahead without being honest about it. Maybe that is what I really hate-- dishonesty, liars...

Ten

2011-04-03T11:46:00.001-07:00

A picture of the person you do the most screwed up things with

Darlene! That is who I tend to do my "crazy" things with.... I really don't get that crazy. I am kind of boring. However-- Darlene is my traveling buddy. She helped me move from UT to TX after I graduated... then she moved me from KS to UT after the divorce...now she comes to TX to see me... we love to shop together (SAM MOON!!!) we have even driven to San Marcos TWICE (A 4 hour drive one way) just to go to the great outlet mall there!!! We went opening summer to Harry Potter World... and will soon plan a summer trip for this year! Oh-- and we love to eat-- that makes a GREAT friend!

Nine

2011-03-31T08:53:00.000-07:00

A picture of the person who has gotten you through the most

Now this might cause a fight, but it shouldn't... I could have easily put a picture of Rahcel, Dad, or Darlene up but I am using them for other posts so Becky gets this one.
When I was going through the divorce I talked to Becky every night before I went to bed. That lasted for several months. She is very honest with me and will tell me things even if I don't want to hear it.... but know I need to.

Eight

2011-03-27T08:09:00.000-07:00

A picture that makes you laugh

I just love little Kaileigh! I had to include this one of Kinsee

Seven

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

A picture of your most treasured item

I don't really have a most treasured item as most things are just things to me... I would be sad if I lost pictures and journals. My Mom's jewelry means a LOT to me so maybe I should have taken pictures of that....but I decided on my bed as I LOVE my bed. I love going to bed at night... I have soft sheets and great pillows. I spend most of my time there (or at work) so I would say my bed qualifies as a treasured item!

Six

2011-03-21T08:32:00.000-07:00

A picture of a person you'd love to trade places with for a day

I'll go with Kate Middleton... why not. She is planning the wedding of the year (decade??) I LOVE weddings. The food, the flowers, the dresses... all of it. So why not be her for a day and get REAL Royal treatment.. and see what she is planning. Plus I bet I could get the Royal jet and go to some fantastic private island somewhere. I think I could do that for just one day.

Five

2011-03-17T18:34:00.000-07:00

A picture of your favorite memory

Disclaimer: I have no idea where my photo albums are.. garage in a box??!!

Obviously that is not a picture of me on that jet ski, but we'll pretend it is. The lake is Deer Creek Reservoir up Provo Canyon. Now, we know I don't like to do favorites but this memory tops my college summer days. All I remember is that I was able to get 2 friends that had boats and one friend that had 2 jet skis-- and lots of other friends together on a day and we went to the lake. Sadly only one jet ski worked and so most people had to get on the boats or hang out on the "beach". Me-- I think I was on the working jet ski almost the ENTIRE day. I remember one guy would get on and I would sweet talk my way into being the girl he rode with... then another guy would want a ride and I would sweet talk my way on... notice the trend? One time I was driving and I was able to throw my friend off--It was GREAT!! He couldn't throw me off-- so fun. It was just such a care free day. We played in the water, ate lunch and played some more. Just what a day at the lake in college should be like. I need to do that again.

Day Four

2011-03-14T10:33:00.001-07:00

A picture of your night:
I work nights so here you go.. this is what I do!

Day Three

2011-03-10T14:36:00.000-08:00

A picture of the cast from your favorite show:
I HATE picking favorites so I am doing a picture from my favorite show on the day of the week they air!
Monday: Castle (picture from season 2 as that is what Dad and I are watching when nothing else is on.)

Tuesday NCIS and White Collar

Thursday: The Mentalist

Apparently I have a thing for murder mysteries. O-well they are fun to watch! And THANK GOODNESS for DVR!!!

Day Two

2011-03-08T07:32:00.000-08:00

A picture of you and the person you have been closest with the longest

Can't beat my relationship with my sister! I don't remember being young kids with her...I remember fighting over clothes...a day when she let me get ready in her room when a friend was over (She was a Jr I think) and I thought that was pretty cool...when she went to college that is when we really became FRIENDS. Now I can't imagine a time with out her in my life. I miss living close to her... she is a GREAT Mom and wife. I love you Seester!!

Day One

2011-03-06T08:29:00.000-08:00

A picture of yourself with ten facts
1. I am attempting to do a 30 blog post deal. It's supposed to be 30 days, but we all know I won't blog everyday so it is my 30 posting deal!
2. I worked a ten hour day yesterday which included 8 hours of massage. I DIED! I will have to say no the next time I am asked to do that. 7 hours was ok, but 8 took me over the edge! Needless to say I came home, took a hot bath, 2 Tylenol PM's and CRASHED!
3. I broke up with Isaac last week. I just wasn't feeling it....it was sad for me because I really liked him, but just as a friend...
4. I am sad that Kaijsa has decided to move to UT. I wonder how much I will get to see her now... and I wonder if she will really get the help she is needing
5. I love that by working nights I rarely have to wake up to an alarm!
6. I am trying to do better at working out-- would like to lose 30 pounds.
7. I am not trying very hard to stop eating sweets. (kind of goes against the one above.. o-well..)
8. I love to read books to escape my reality for a bit... right now I am reading "The Lost Hero" and I like it!
9. I have not cut my hair off just yet. I will wait awhile longer-- I like it when it is done cute, but that is so infrequent! I think I have become a "tenderhead" because I don't do my hair very often. This week when I got my hair cut/ colored I thought I would die as she was blow drying my hair! CRAZY!
10. I love Sundays-- the Sunday paper, Church, catch up on tv shows... and time with Dad. Oh-- and I love skyping to see my sister's family. Now to get Drew in on that too!

Flowers!

2011-02-17T08:41:00.000-08:00

Aren't they BEAUTIFUL? Isaac sent them to me for Valentine's Day! Flowers just make me happy. And I don't have to eat them and be sad the next day!
I got to go to Phoenix last week for a day and a half. I love that the kids get so excited to see me. Kamnden and kinsee just talked my ear off!!! Even Kaileigh remembered me which I was afraid she wouldn't. Kallen, well he is still too little so it's just great that he loves to snuggle. Isaac gets free passes and so he let me use one to come out. It was a fun trip. He got to meet Rachel and family-- the kids love him... We went to "the Coffee Shop" this lady has been on the food network channel for her cupcakes. Isaac found the place as it was really close to his house.I must say for $3 a cupcake I was expecting an out-of-this-world treat... I was a little disappointed. Maybe if we had gotten there when they first came out of the oven....or if they had been chocolate... well..I will try another place next time. It was fun to see where Isaac lives (Mesa/Gilbert) The library there is really neat. It has a beautiful park behind it. Lots of people fishing. I saw some hummingbirds SITTING on a branch! Maybe my brother should look into working for them.... The trip was too fast... but so good to see Isaac and my sister. Makes me realize just how much I miss living close to her and the kids.

Work has still been going well. (Read that as busy). I haven't been feeling the best this week. Lost of zinc and I think I am finally feeling better today. After a week of no exercise it was tough to do my workout today! My favorite DVD is Biggest Loser Cardo Max workout (with Bob) Totally kicks my butt and I love it!

Austin

2011-01-09T15:20:00.000-08:00

Does anyone know how to change font color on here? For some reason I don't remember and I can't find it.... aggravating!

So Christmas came and went....New Years came and went... and here we are in mid-January. Guess that means this year will fly by?

The big news of today is that we have SNOW! It is 5:00 and already schools are closing for tomorrow. Got to love Texas!!! Maybe I won't have to go in to work tomorrow. Is it already too early to ask -- I don't have to be there until 4:00 tomorrow..

I did start my new year out with a small (?) slight concussion. I knocked my glasses on the floor and went to pick them up and smashed my head into my dresser. It sounded just like it does on CSI when someone gets whacked on the head!!! Anyway the next day it was more difficult to do 2 things at once (Drive and sing...drive and talk... shop and talk...) and I had a hard time connecting my thoughts!!

As some of you know I signed up for ldssingles awhile ago. I really don't recommend the whole on-line thing as it really hasn't worked for me and it is just not my thing... BUT I have made a new friend! His name is Isaac. He lives in Mesa, AZ. He is a flight attendant for Southwest Airlines. We have had a lot of fun talking on the phone the last month. He was in Austin this weekend with a long overnight...so I found someone to cover my shift at work and I went down! The only thing I remember about Austin was as a kid being taken to the Capitol Building... and hating having to go through it. But this trip was MUCH better. Isaac and I walked along the river...saw the bridge where the bats come out at night (have to see that some time...missed it this go around as I wasn't there yet or already left). We also walked around the University of Texas. It was a beautiful day...got to eat some good b-b-q and really had a lot of fun getting to know Isaac better.

Work has picked up quite a bit, which I am so grateful. I hope we are out of the Fall slump..and I hope there isn't a Winter or Spring slump! I figure all the Christmas gift cards will continue to trickle in and then we will hit Valentines day. I also wonder if any of the 200,00 people that are coming for the Super Bowl in Feb. will want a massage... let's hope so!

Utah

2010-12-12T12:53:00.000-08:00

Another wonderful trip to Utah has come and gone. I spent the first half in Bountiful with Becky and her family. Josh was baptized so I got to help clean and cook. It was a lot of fun. So glad I could be there for it. We had a good visit. Becky taught Relief Society and it was a GREAT message. Loved it!!!
Darlene took me to the First Presidency Christmas Devotional. It was WONDERFUL. That is where I took the foggy picture of the SLC Temple.
Then I got to go to American Fork to be with my brother and his family!!! Got to see Miranda perform in a school Christmas Concert! They sang, "I want a hippopotamus for Christmas!!!" Love that song. It is currently my ring tone. Heather and I did a LOT of paining. I think it turned out great!!! I look forward to hearing the comments of friends and family as they see the "new house". She may have to get my Dad to help paint the kitchen and upstairs hallway.
As always the trip went too fast. Not enough eating at favorite places...though I did introduce Heather to Zupas. (YUM!!) and I had my Cafe Rio salad. Then we went to Texas Roadhouse and I must say... it was so good! Need to go there more often.
I think I have finally finished my Christmas decorating. I can't find a box that has some things.... grr. Maybe when Dad and I clean out the garage I will find it. we'll see.

Well as Darlene has told me: I have dogged a bullet. I got dumped over a TEXT MESSAGE yesterday. Really! and I was at work! So... my fun with David is no more. I know it will be fine, but it is my day to be cranky about it... so I will be for just awhile longer.
Enjoy the pictures I took!

Funeral

2010-11-30T08:01:00.000-08:00

I am finally getting around to posting the pictures I took while in Missouri at my Grandma's funeral. It was a quick trip (yet again I learn I hate sitting for 10+ hrs while in a car!) It was great to see the family. I enjoy my aunts and uncles a lot more now that I am older. It was wonderful to see Grandpa. Still don't like seeing him get older, but sure do love him.
I will miss my Grandma, but the image I have of her reuniting with my Mom and her parents/ sisters makes it all ok.

I also got to go to AZ to see my sister and family. It was wonderful to meet Kallin. What a cutie. Love the stage when they just want to cuddle and don't care who is holding them. Took Kailiegh only a minute to remember me and that was so fun. Kinsee-- I will always treasure her hugs. She is just too funny. Kamden, growing up to be such a big boy!! 1. he is tall, 2. he is in pre-k now. CRAZY! Kait-- busy girl with school and the play (Sure wish I could go see it!!!) Kaijsa-- got to take her Sr. pictures and that was a lot of fun! Got some really good shots. I will post a few of my favorites.

Air Show and other things

2010-11-01T10:22:00.000-07:00

Last few weeks have been busy in a new way! I went to the single adult conference and actually met someone! His name is David (yes... I know... but he does go by David and not Dave). He is 35, has 3 kids (girl 6, boy 5, girl 2). He works for ThyssenKrupp (elevator people) and has a personal business-- WorldVentures (A discount travel multi-level marketing company). We see each other when we can. With me working until 9 or 10 it is not always the easiest. We did take his kids to the air show this weekend. It was fun. I do love the loud jets. I was caught by surprise just once when the blue angel flew from behind us, low and fast. I loved it the kids started crying!

Work has been pretty slow. I am hoping with HS football winding down and the world series about over (Go RANGERS!) that things will start to pick up. Not sure how going into the holidays will impact things.

I get to go see my newest nephew next week! I am excited to meet Kallen. I will take lots of pictures. Then in a month I get to go to UT and I am super excited for that!

Today I took the Halloween decorations down and put up the Thanksgiving ones. It is a little crazy to me that we are in NOVEMBER!

Creativity

2010-10-14T14:30:00.000-07:00

My Dad has been out of the country for the past 2 weeks. He gets home Sat. While he was out I decided to spend his money!!! I am so nice! We have needed a new vacuum for quite some time and I was sick of vacuuming with the hose! I decided on a Dyson ball and got it ordered...and then the consumer report magazine came in the mail and the Dyson did not rank as high as I wanted....and for HALF the price I could get a hoover that was ranked number 2! So I canceled the dyson and got the hoover. I used the hoover today and it was quite nice!
Now, what to do with the other half of that money-- I decided it was time to plant some flowers!

I hope I can help them last a year and then they should be pretty good. This has been a really hard spot of ground to get anything to grow... so we'll see. I will really try to get them to survive!

This week I also got to make a Halloween decoration-- blocks with vinyl lettering that says "Boo!" I like them. It was fun to do.

Work has been pretty steady this week. That is a good thing. And I am getting more "regulars" at least getting people to request me. I had one lady tell me that I do a really good job. That made me feel good.

Got my tickets to Utah!! That is definitely something I am looking forward to.

Here is a shout out to my sis-in-law: HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Hope it is a great day and I mostly look forward to painting with you in December :-)

Not much

2010-10-07T15:40:00.000-07:00

Again not a lot going on in my world. No fun work stories..hmmmm a co-worker showed us a picture of him in drag for Halloween... or was it for a night out? (it was Halloween). I worked on a lady that doesn't shave her legs or armpits. That was a little disturbing.... Work has been a little slow lately. Thankfully I can at least pay my bills, but I want to get my plane ticket to UT and start Christmas shopping!

I discovered I have allergies. The riding mower wasn't working the other day so I used the push mower to mow the back "40". I was so miserable for the next few days! Ragweed is NOT my friend! I did get to have one last swim towards the end of Sept. Now the nights are cool. I LOVE having the window open! (ignore allergies here)

A friend showed me how to prune the rose bushes this week. We'll see if Dad notices when he gets home from his Canada trip.

I am almost finished reading the Chronicles of Narnia. I have really enjoyed them. I like the first few the best... I wish the 4 kids were in all of the books. I really like little Lucy.

I have started watching Glee season 1. I like it for the most part. We'll see.

Here is Dad's pet spider: she has 3 egg sacks above her web. Guess we'll have natural decorations this year.

33rd Birthday

2010-09-12T14:17:00.001-07:00

I have a new phone. It is the EVO (Sprint version of the iphone). Now that I am constantly connected to email etc.... the birthday was crazy! Facebook greetings kept me going all day long. That was fun. Thursday Dad and I flew to AZ for my sister's sealing. Didn't do much on Thurs. which was nice. Fri. got to go shopping and went to In-N-Out Burgers. I have been there once before and after eating there again I remember why I don't really remember it. It is not that great! Sure it is a top-rated burger place, but to me it wasn't that wonderful. I think I can forgo the desire to go again. Darlene came to town and so with Larry's parents and all of us we went to a Mexican restaurant in Maricopa. It was really good. I even got sung to and got a free fried ice cream! I haven't had fried ice cream in YEARS!!!!! (Ponchos in Mac). I also got to eat homemade oreos. YUM!!!!! Darlene brought me 2 mini bundt cakes from Nothing Bundt Cakes SO GOOD!
Saturday we got up and started getting ready at 6:00! Good thing to because we left just in time! With 5 girls hair to curl... it took awhile. Gratefully Darlene knew how to do it and did most all of the work! THANKS DARLENE! The temple was nice. The little ones did such a great job being reverent! Kai cried some, but that is ok. It is so fun to me that the temple has a play room for kids! It was a special moment and so glad I could be there. I took a few pictures and then we went to a nice restaurant after. Good times.
A great weekend.

I finished re-reading Harry Potter. I still love those books and know I will read them all again sometime. Now I am re-reading The Hunger Games. Then, I can find a new series!

Slacker

2010-09-05T15:02:00.000-07:00

It is funny... I like to check everyone else's blog and love it when they are updated and if they aren't I am like hurry up already... and it has been forever since I have updated mine. O-well.
Massage Envy is good. I like the people I work with. The clients are usually fun too. I like it when someone comes in with an issue so I have something to work on... The other day a tennis pro. came in. He is a coach now, but his whole right arm, shoulder, and neck were a mess. I felt bad because I didn't quite know enough to be super helpful, but I did what I could. I have taken a pre-natal class and just need to do practicals for it now. I think I will take deep tissue next. There is just so much to learn, I love it!
Because I work nights I have been doing a lot of yard work (and house work). I am really wanting to do some landscaping, before it gets too cold... so I guess I have until Dec. We'll see if Dad lets me.
I decided to sign up for ldssingles.com.... we'll see how it goes. I am not expecting anything, but I hope it is a way for me to maybe meet some people. I am also trying to get to the singles activities...who knows. I just need to do something I figure. No meeting people with what I have been doing (which has been nothing.)
I was at a stop-light the other day... I decided it was time to go without looking in front of me... The black Mercedes had not moved yet! It was a light hit. I think my car has a little scratch on it, but that is all... the other car has some while paint added to it. The worst is that this couple had just gotten it, there were temporary plates on it! So, I figure they will get a new bumper. Sure hope my insurance doesn't go up!
I enjoyed Mockingjay. I am in book 7 of Harry Potter so I think I might re-read the Hunger Games series.... I really need to find a new series!
My goal is to be debt free. I know it will take me forever, but that is my goal. I am trying to adjust to what my new income is, and save and pay more for my car. I think I can... I think I can.. maybe by putting this in writing it will actually keep me motivated.
Looking forward to my birthday weekend in AZ. Sad my brother is missing out on the Sealing of my sister's family... Glad Darlene will make it!
Well, that is me for now!

Travels and such

2010-07-25T18:19:00.000-07:00

Ah--- so July has been fun for me! YEAH! I got to go on a REAL vacation!!! I will just post a few pictures but the long short of it is that I went to Florida with my friend Darlene. We went to Ft. Lauderdale, a cruise to the Bahamas, and to Orlando. It was all fun. I love cruises so it was nice to do that. We went snorkeling and I think I got a tiny bit sea sick doing that. (I feel your pain Heather E.)The resort in the Bahamas was fabulous I would so go back there!
I loved the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. I hope they can make it bigger as time goes on. Butterbeer needs to be sold everywhere. It really was what I hoped it would be. The only down side was how HOT it was and the lack of shade or water cool off spots. The 20 min. wait to get into a gift shop was a little much too, but that is ok. I knew there would be TONS of people there and there were!
I really liked Animal Kingdom. I just love Disney. I have no idea how my parents took us there as kids. It was SO expensive for everything! And I was SO TIRED after about 6 hours! Good times.

I got to help my sister move to Arizona. I was so glad I could help out. Other than NEVER getting used to the heat I liked it there. The people we met in her ward were so friendly! She will be in good hands.

I passed my massage license test! And I now have my license! I can get a job! that is what I will be doing this week. It will be good to work full time again. (that is what I tell myself anyway!)

Girls Camp

2010-06-27T17:11:00.000-07:00

I survived! I had a great time at Girls Camp. The weather was pretty good to us. We had good cloud cover and some rain that helped. If I had gone to camp like this when I was in YW I may have actually liked it better! I got to help the YCL's do everything. They were fantastic. There was some down time which was nice. I got to do the fireside and think it went ok. I felt like I didn't make a lot of sense, but when do I? I am glad I could go. Still a little tired, but it was fun.

I have 13 more hours to do this week and I am DONE with school! Then I just have to wait for my license to come. For those who don't know I did great on my test! The highest you can get is a 900. I was hoping for something in the 700's. I got an 817!!! I tied one of my teachers and did better than some of them!!!! I was definitely blessed.

I don't work a lot right now. Last week I got a whopping 2 hours in. I don't think I will have much more to do at Sylvan if any at all. I am good with that. I am looking forward to finding a job.

July will be fun. I get to go to Florida with my friend Darlene. I am SO excited. Then I will help Rachel move to Arizona. I am so NOT excited. I will miss them all too much. I do hope to get to Utah soon because I for sure miss my family and friends there!

Enjoy the pictures I got to take of my sister's family!

To the Finish Line

2010-06-13T12:09:00.000-07:00

I am in my internship! It is 52 hours-- 40 hours on hands on massage and 12 hours of admin help or case studies. I have finished 18 hours! I want to be done by July 2, but not sure it will happen. I am out of my free massages so now people have to pay $30. It is going to be more difficult to get people in. I have worked on my first old man. He was in in 70s. It wasn't so bad. I look forward to getting better so I can really help people.

My sister is moving. BOO. I will have to make lots of money so I can go to UT and AZ a lot more often. I am sick of missing all the kids grow up!

Work has come to a snail's pace. I will only work 3 days this next week. I look forward to more time for me and studying. I take my licensing exam on the 22nd. I have done ok on the practice tests, but I want to do more studying!

Mother's Day

2010-05-09T12:32:00.001-07:00

Mother's Day sure is different now that my Mother is no longer here. I get to sit in Church and hear about Mother's and it makes me sad. I miss my Mom like CRAZY! Today wasn't much different. The lonely side of me was there... the single childless side was there... the rebellious side of me that thinks I WILL NOT take a free gift was there... but all in all I did take the gift (This year a CD instead of a flower I would kill! YEAH!) My Bishop did help me out, he reminded those of us without our Mother's to let it be a day of rejoicing and not of sorrow, for we know they are still alive and looking after us. I liked that. Good to remember. So, it wasn't so bad today!

My Mom's Mom is still alive. This is how I remember her. It is good when I get to go see her. I need to start asking more genealogical questions!! I hope she has a good day!

I have 3 more weeks and then I get to start my internship! YEAH! I am really looking forward to it.

Next Round-- GO!

2010-04-25T16:46:00.000-07:00

So I have survived the last of the 5 week mods with most of the crazies! It will just be me and 2 other girls (that I like) that move to the last 2 mods. I should get my table in the next week or so!!! I am excited for that. It will make practicing that much easier! This week I will learn about salt scrubs and masks... then 4 weeks of clinical. That is when we put it all together and practice "real life" situations for massage... then the last 5 weeks will be business and intern hours. If I can be quick about getting my 52 hours of massage in I could be done with school by 4th of July. That would be nice! I am ready to say goodbye to the Sylvan world and start this new phase. I figure I will be nice to my sister and take a prenatal massage class this summer.

No crazy school stories. Well one guy had a bad week last week because last weekend he was standing next to his buddy when his buddy got shot! I don't think it was a fatal shot, but still. CRAZY!

This weekend was our Stake RS Meeting. We had classes and lunch. I got to spend most of the day Friday at the church setting up, Sat. at the church getting ready, participating, and tearing down. I am tired! I can't remember the last time I thought I was bored.

I never wrote about the April birthdays-- Kaijsa is 17! She let me take her shopping and that was fun. She's a cutie and we had fun. She picked the Spaghetti warehouse for dinner... I was not very excited about it because I thought I wouldn't like it because I remember not loving it the last time, but it turned out good. So, good pick Kaijsa! Rachel-- her birthday surprise of finding out she was 10 weeks pregnant! WOW!!! I am excited. Bring on the fun!

May will bring more birthdays. I have Kaitlyn taken care of. I have McKenna taken care of too! Sure wish I would be out there for when she opens her gift, but o-well... Now to shop for Kinsee!!

Pool weather is here! I didn't get in the water yesterday, but it was nice to lay out. Kaijsa was the only one to burn-- and we weren't out that long!

Well enough chatter!

Easter

2010-04-04T15:31:00.000-07:00

Hoppy Easter as I like to say. I love this time of year. The Bluebonnets are out, I saw my barn swallows today, it is light so much longer. Lots to be thankful for. I am grateful for Easter Sunday-- grateful the Lord rose like He said He would. I can remember Mom and know I will see her again!

I got to color Easter eggs with Thomas and Cade. It was fun. I remember my Mom making cool eggs. I didn't inherit her skill. I still love deviled eggs! (good job sis)

Went and saw How to Train Your Dragon. It was actually a cute movie. (Title does not match the movie, but that's okay). The kids had a good time. A good day with Rachel's kids. Cade came too.

I also saw Clash of the Titans. I liked that one too. I do not remember seeing the 80's version so this was good. Having just finished the Percy Jackson series I was more into what was happening and who people were.

School is fine. 3 more weeks and I should get my table! YEAH!!! Then it will be so much easier to practice. Larry may not like it as it may not be as comfortable to sleep on, but o-well. There was another annoying kid kicked out this week. I am glad. Class should be much quieter!

Hair

2010-03-28T14:10:00.001-07:00

So this is what my hair looks like now. I like it.

Spring Time

2010-03-20T17:11:00.000-07:00

I LOVE Spring! Too bad it is so darn cold today! It was 70 yesterday and today-- 40. Gotta love it! I took the flower pics today.. notice the flood water in the back and yeah, a little droopy looking for the flowers.

This was the first Spring Break that I have had to work. It was a little depressing to be in school... work.. well I worked and we'll leave it at that.

I did take Cade and Richard to a lady in our ward's house she and her daughter have the horses. Now that I know how nice the horse, Serendipity, is I will have to take Kam and Kinsee I am sure! It was fun.

School has been fine. I survived the last 5 weeks. We have had 2 different teachers. It has been a little crazy. 5 more weeks and then I get to leave most of the class. I am so hopeful that the one guy that makes me nuts will be switching classes starting tomorrow. Wish I had a good story to tell.. but nothing lately.

I have been watching Who do you Think You Are. I call it Genealogy Hollywood style. It is actually good. I like seeing the "famous" people find out about their heritage. Maybe when I am done with school and I have a job I will start trying to figure out where Mom left off and do our family history.

My big news is that I got sick of my hair and instead of chopping it all off I colored it. I need to take a picture... I like it. Different. Fun.

Feb. is done

2010-02-28T18:11:00.000-08:00

Kaileigh Saling she was so cute today!

Kamden Saling-- so funny! He kept trying to play with the dog and she somewhat ignored him...

Kinsee Saling-- Loves her jammies!

These are pictures from today. Rachel and family got to come down and see us... and eat a yummy dinner by Dad. The weather has been so nice!!!

School is okay. I have a new teacher. She is not as organized as my last one.. and her teaching methods are not the same. So-- it is quite frustrating for me. I feel like I haven't learned a lot the past 2 weeks. When students fail the final they can retake the test. Well there was a guy retaking the test and he was totally cheating. So I started saying something about it and the other students were getting mad at me! One girl told me "snitches wind up in ditches"... I was pretty mad. I hate that people cheat!!! Another guy was all "cheating helps you learn you remember the questions that way! (like studying doesn't do that?) He also was telling me that I should not care-- let the other guy fail the BIG test. I told him this was a BIG test. But he meant the licensing exam we will take when we are done. I said no-- let him fail now and he can retake the classes for free!!! (The BIG test is $200 and the school will pay for your first attempt)
It really makes me crazy!!! I have tried to keep quiet in class, but this is just nuts. I think because 90% of them are getting the schooling for free they don't care. They know they can take the classes over until they pass. I would say 3:5 of the students will have to retake classes and not finish in the set amount of time. It is just sad to me! I want out and want to start my new career. But then... some of them think I am crazy because I already have a degree.... ah well. Keeps school somewhat entertaining!

Work has been good. This week I was not feeling too hot so my boss let me go home early and the next day he assumed I was still feeling sick so he told me to go home early! NICE... but then I had a long day on Friday and worked Sat. as well...

There is a Single Adult Conference this weekend. I think I will meet up with my friend, Heather, and go to parts of it. She and I will go to the BYU vs. TCU game on Sat. night! Should be fun. Something little to look forward to.

This week I went to a Single Adult meeting at the Stake Center (The stake RSP couldn't make it so I was asked to take her place)... I hope I never have to go to another one!!! I was getting so mad! One sister was "joking" about how once you turn 30 life is mostly over and you won't get married anyway.... (wow... 32 I should just give up right?!) Then she talked about how she wanted "new people" to come to the activities... hmmnn.... then the group decided the Bishops needed to ask the singles in their ward and ASSIGN them to go to this activity that was being planned. ASSIGNED!!!! I got pretty upset. I told the High Counselor's wife that I was sitting by (her husband was in charge that night) that the Bishop could ask me to take some food to it, but not assign me to go!! Maybe I have the wrong attitude about that.. but really assign us to an activity? -- It is over Memorial Day weekend. I must need to go see Grandma and Grandpa that weekend.

Well those are the crazy stories I could think of for this past while. We shall see what March brings. ( in like a lion out like a lamb?)

Snow in TEXAS!

2010-02-13T14:59:00.000-08:00

It has been fun to have all the snow. It is interesting watching people attempt to drive in the snow. One truck kept trying to make its own path-- hello-- use the one that everyone else has used and you will stop sliding onto the shoulder/grass!

You will also see a picture of my nameless dog. I seem to be calling her dog quite a bit. I just don't think she is "Lady". Maybe because she makes me so mad. She likes to run off, sleep on my furniture, and wake me up 2 times a night to go to the bathroom. I was SHOCKED this morning when I woke up at 7 and she hadn't bothered me at all during the night!

Our power was out for 24 hours. That made life fun. When I got home Thurs. I decided I would just work all day Friday and shovel the driveway. Well after an hour and not getting very far I called the Elders to see if they would help. They came-- in their suits, no hats, gloves, or boots and shoveled. One Elder is from the Seattle area so he knew what to do. The other Elder is from Sacramento (a Tongan) and had no idea what he was supposed to do! Dad came home and we all had dinner. When we were ready for the dessert the power went out. The house was okay Thurs. night. Fri. when I woke up I knew I would have to come up with plan B for work. I went to my friend, Richard's house and got stuck trying to turn into his driveway. He had to borrow a neighbor's shovel to get me out of the road. I worked for 2 1/2 hours from his house and called my boss. There was nothing else I could do out of the office. So, I went to firestone and had my oil changed. Ran a few errands. Went to Rachel's house and held either Kinsee or Kaileigh. It was fun. The kids were loving the snow. I went back home around 7 and the power was STILL out... so, I was packing my stuff up to stay at my visiting teaching partner's house when FINALLY the power came back on.

School-- had a "final's" week. (Every 6 weeks we start a new round of classes). I got A's and a few A+'s. I think I will have one low grade of a B. The teacher I have had this whole time moved this weekend so it should be interesting this next week to see how the class handles a change in teachers. Maybe she can teach some student's respect.... No real good class stories.

Toot my own horn

2010-01-31T18:26:00.001-08:00

A friend PAID me to have FUN! Her niece is having a baby and she is hosting the shower. I found the CUTE ribbon at The Container Store (A FAVORITE STORE!) and then the cards were made... and tonight Dad helped me with the diaper cake! Totally fun for me! Tell me how much you like it!

AHHH Kansas

2010-01-31T15:38:00.000-08:00

I did it! I went back to my hometown! It has been about 3 years since I have been back. It is always interesting to see the changes. Since I only drove down one main street (Kansas Ave)I saw a few changes. Mac town has a Walgreens!!!! Whoa! And I think the college has grown some.

The BEST thing I saw--- children sledding down overpasses!!! I laughed out loud when I saw it! I remember Mom taking us to the Manville hill and doing that! It was the best! Besides-- where else would you do that in KS? So good to see other kids making memories doing the same thing.

I got to see the Pavlovsky family!!! Angela got married. Steele just returned from a mission in Chile. Fun to see people after not seeing them for awhile. Always nice to pick up where you left off. I have really missed Donna! I used to go over there every Sun. night when I lived in Mac. Good times-- good friends.

I got to see the Julians. Jon now has a jaguar (4 door-silver) I think Karen drives a Lexus suv.. or maybe it's an acura. They are getting ready to move to S. Carolina so Jon and his son, Blake can start up a business together.

Fun to see other people. Everyone asked about the family. Brad Unruh says hi to Drew.

I did see Br. and Sis. Overton. She gave me a hug and chatted with me. He just said hi. She said I should have called and could have spend the night there! YEAH RIGHT!!!! Susie is expecting #3 so that was the big news thankfully. She didn't mention Dave which I was grateful for. I did it!!! Now if I ever go back I think it will be easier. I think I stressed over this for 3 weeks! whew!

I got to see Amy Dekle. She is pregnant and due May 1. It was good to see her so happy. She has a nice home and decorates well. (I wish I had that talent) I like her significant other. He seems very nice and I think they balance each other well.

So it was a fast up and back trip but it was good. I am glad I went!

Not Much

2010-01-23T07:46:00.000-08:00

First off-- Happy Birthday Kamden! I can't believe you are 4!

School-- it is going. I go to class, I do my homework, I get good grades. I did have to do a research paper this week. It is only 3 pages double spaced. I remember when that was torture. Now, I lood up 2 sites and I have PLENTY! Well... plenty of junk. I have started to realize I don't know how to use the internet for a research paper. What happened to a school library! I miss BYU's journals on-line. O-well.... So I will turn in a mediocre paper and hope it is good enough. No fun stories of school. The drill sargent no longer comes. There is another guy that comes now and then, and then sleeps through class-- what is the point?!

I am working for the Dallas Sylvan. I get to work with after school tutoring at schools. When schools don't pass the state test they get money for tutoring, and schools are starting to use us! So, it is kind of fun. I work about 25 hours a week. Not too bad. Should pay the bills while I finish school.

I will go to Kansas next weekend for a friend's wedding reception. I haven't been to KS in 3 years... It will be good to see old friends...I am a little nervous of running into the "ex-in-laws". But I am tryig to not let that stop me.

Back to school

2010-01-10T11:57:00.000-08:00

Sadly I really don't have any horror stories from the week. We took finals. I got a 103, 110, and a 97! NICE! It is crazy because when we do our review she GIVES us the questions... and yet no one studies!!! (I do!). Thurs. was an icy morning so only 6 of us showed up to class. We got to massage-- NICE! Since we had extra time my teacher worked on my jaw. The whole class was watching that was the not so fun part. I was amazed at how much it hurt!!! My mouth muscles are so tense (due to my TMJ). She told me I need to go to a chiropractor to get my jaw put back in place. I don't know. Maybe when I have extra money. For now I will keep using my splint.

It really has been crazy cold here. At least most of us seem to know how to drive on the ice. My Uncle in Jacksonville, FL... I'm sure it has been a mess over there!

My fried, Darlene is going to come visit me this weekend (MLK Day coming up and of course I will be out of school for that!)I will have to see what fun things are going on around town. We will try to find a new jewelry store I have heard about!

I have a job-- working part-time for the Sylvan in Dallas. I will be helping with the school contracts they got-- after school tutoring for reading or math. Some traveling, but towards my house. I think I will like it.

I got to help a friend throw a bridal shower (she paid me to make the invitations, find the caterer, get the games set up, and do the table decorations.) I think it turned out so CUTE! Thanks to my friend Alex, (she had this as her bridal shower I always wanted to try it!) it was a basket theme-- so the bride got baskets/ tubs full of things for different rooms in the house. She really got some great things-- not just your normal stuff. Anyway it went well. The flowers I did turned out so pretty. It was so FUN! Now I am going to help my friend throw a baby shower for her niece! Maybe I could be a Sylvan consultant, party planner, massage therapist. What do you think?

pics of recent events

2009-12-25T18:23:00.000-08:00

Gift Exchange

2009-12-25T16:28:00.000-08:00

I must say, I do love this time of year. I especially like it when I don't have school/ work and I can do what I want... hmmnn...
Monday I had my church Sunday School kids (15 year olds) come over (4 of them) to make Reindeer poop. A package of oreos and a box of cream cheese... made into balls and then dipped in chocolate. Quite tasty. The kids had a good time. I introduced them to the proper way of making hot chocolate. It was a great way to start of the week.
Tuesday-- class started to get interesting. We went to the Bodies exhibit. I have seen one similar so it was still good. However, standing there waiting to get in one of the "louder girls" comes over to chat with me. She proceeds to let me know how those in her car decided to drink and get high on the way over. A 10 min. drive! Seriously? And why tell me about it!!!!

Wednesday-- we had a "Christmas" party. There were ok treats. I think someone brought sandwiches with bologna on them... I brought fudge and they liked it. The interesting part was the gift exchange. I decided to be nice and bought a $5 throw. What did I get? A package of peanut M&M's....yeah... not even the king size! That's okay... the girl who gave me the M&M's got a box of condoms.
I had a written final on Wed. I missed 2, but with my extra credit I got 100%. The teacher asked for those who studied to raise their hands. I was the only one who did!!! Kills me!
I have decided being middle class sucks. Because I did ok for myself LAST year-- I got to take out a loan for school. Well because I am considered 3/4 time I had to pay for the remaining balance.... Some of the students were talking about how they needed to go and get their bus passes.... get their check from financial aid... WHAT? Yep, some kids are being PAID to go to school. So, I went to financial aid to see what they could do for me since I LOST my job. NOTHING! I can have lower monthly payments, but that is it! UGH!!!!!! So maddening to me. Can they pay my gas? Nope. grr.

on to happier things- CHRISTMAS. I do love shopping for Christmas. I think it is fun to see all the people out (ok-- only when I am not in a hurry). Christmas Eve I had to get some stuff at the grocery store and at Barnes and Noble-- it was fun to see everyone. People were kind. Because Texas weather went from 70* on Wed. and SNOWING on Thurs-- people were even nice in the parking lots!

I have eaten good food. And just enjoyed the time with those around me. Gotta love family!

Class happenings

2009-12-11T10:57:00.000-08:00

I was telling Dad some stories of massage class and he asked me what I have gotten myself into... yes, it is a unique experience. Drew you will have to call me to find out the BEST story of the week. It is best that I not publish this one.

I have learned to stay clear of anyone at school. It is good I know how to be quiet and stay out of someone else's business. This was the week of fights.

Monday I learned that in the Medical Assistant school there were 2 girls who got into it... So, girl 1 decides to leave class and hang out in her car for girl 2 to walk out so girl 1 can jump her. Girl 2 leaves the building "some other way" and heads to the nearby gas station. Girl 1 asks a classmate where girl 2 is and drives over to gas station. Girl 2 sees girl 1 coming so she heads to the bathroom. Now this is where I am unclear... either girl in bathroom hangs out for awhile figures coast is clear and leaves or the bathroom is more than one person and girl 1 goes on in. Needless to say girl 2 got busted up pretty bad.

Tuesday: 18 year old girl (who is rarely in class) starts to get into it with the loud mouth guy of our class. She and he exchange heated words (why is it blacks can use the "n" word and it is ok, but it is so much more awful when a white person uses it?! No one should use it)... girl gets angry-- slams the door (Sis-- almost as good as you used to) Then she comes back in and decides to leave for the day... all the while loud mouth guy is still blabbing.

Wednesday: School starts at 7 AM.... at 6:55 I hear screaming in the hall.. I think no way-- it is TOO EARLY for a fight... nope, 2 girls are going at it in the hall... now were they on the same bus to have been having a conversation? How on earth can someone get so angry so early in the morning. Don't know how bad the fight was. At first break I went to the bathroom and there was a security guard standing outside of it.... yeah that makes me feel better!

Thursday: Yet again loud mouth guy and another loud girl in my class go at it. (words.. not fists-- that has just been between girls). This fight was done in front of the executive director of the school! Teacher was REAL happy about this.
It is so messed up! CRAZYINESS I say!

We did have an open talk one day where those in the class could tell about a hard time in their life so we could get a better understanding of each other... .needless to say this white girl kept her mouth shut.

Other than that I have been flashed a few times. Expected I guess, but on the first massage day? Sheesh. We don't go commando just yet. But we did do full body massages and have to work the glutes. I had a girl tease me for my grandma underwear. Sorry-- how long has it been since I wore "cute" underwear? The teacher said if girls were on "that time of the month" then they should wear a g-string. WHAT? Like that helps!!! hmmnnn... guess I need some sexy panties for school.

New Adventure

2009-11-29T08:05:00.000-08:00

I started Massage Therapy school on Tuesday! In a class of 20 I am one of 3 white girls. I am most likely the only one with a college degree....let alone a high school diploma. I may also be one of the only ones with out kids.... We played a game on Wed-- 2 truths and a lie.... I discovered a girl is bi-sexual (who tells that!!!) One guy almost murdered someone... another guy has been in a cop chase.... one girl has 13 brothers and sisters.. another has 9... a girl has 12 tattoos.. (oh-- could be only one with out any tattoos)... I can tell I will have lots of stories. The cool thing is that the school gives out tickets for showing up to class. I may win an ipod or a flatscreen tv!
I learned CPR-- I think I finished the test first. Then I started reading for next week. I don't think the teacher knew what to do with me. There was a girl that had to be high or something.... so SLOW! The girl behind me was like "what is WRONG with you?! There is NOTHING to think about on this test!" But the girl still took about an hour to finish it!!!!!!!!! And she was the one who had no clue how to play 2 truths and a lie. After each person she was like-- oh I have to vote? On which one is a lie??? KILLING ME!!! It's gonna be fun.
The fact that I had Anatomy this summer is going to really help me. Maybe the 2nd go around I will actually understand it. The book is geared toward a massage person so this will be GREAT! The program director said to expect the classes to feel like they did in high school. I can so handle that. Maybe going to school and working at the same time will be manageable... and I can still get good grades! I still want to work hard.

Thanksgiving was wonderful. Such good food!!! The weather was perfect. Good times with the family. I think Larry even made it through the meal without falling asleep! Good Job Larry!!!!

Got to see The Blind Side. WHAT A GREAT MOVIE!!! I loved it!!

I think I am done Christmas shopping. Whew!

I just love this time of year!!!

My sis's kids-- cute!

2009-11-16T08:49:00.000-08:00

Rodeo

2009-11-16T08:41:00.000-08:00

Saturday I went to the Dallas Rodeo. It was quite good. I like to see the action of the events. It is always made more exciting when a scary moment occurs. (You do have to have a fight or two at a hockey game...) I was not disappointed. There was a bull rider that was stepped on, but he got up and walked away. The most exciting was when a clown was trying to protect a cowboy and the bull got up under the clown and tossed him so high!!! Thankfully the clown got up-- a little shaken, but didn't appear to be injured. We did get to see the top ranked cowboys- and cowgirls. (Amazingly-- the cowgirls were older...interesting.) Lots of guys from Utah. I wish them all well at the finals in Las Vegas.
After the rodeo we got to see Lady Antebellum. I really like them. I was happy to listen-- I didn't want to go down to the rodeo floor and stand in dirt/manure.
A fun random night.-- Thanks Heather!

Massage

2009-11-11T18:07:00.000-08:00

Last week I went to an ultrasound meeting. I decided it was not something I was wanting to do. You have school for 2 years and then work for at least 3 years before you get "comfortable".... they have a "recommendation" in the guidebook that you don't have any major life changes for the 2 years. There is also a pregnancy clause! (Not that that pertains to me...) So... I backed out.

I went to the church employment center and took a personality test.... it was soooo funny. Amazing how it pegged me. Anyway it listed a lot of jobs that my personality would fit... and massage therapy was one of them! I have always enjoyed massages.. and I have been ok at giving them.... I have a lot of respect for the man who was my massage therapist in UT... so I went to the school and signed up! CRAZY! I start in 2 weeks. I should be done in May or July (Not sure if the internship was counted in the length of the program). I am excited. I have classes 7 AM until noon.. then I can go work at Sylvan.... (If Sylvan can stay open. Things are still pretty rough!)

Muggle Madness

2009-11-02T17:58:00.000-08:00

Last week was a good week. I got to go to So You Think You Can Dance! It was a great show. I enjoyed the commentary this year better than last. Last year I had watched so I really knew who I was watching...this year I just got to enjoy the dances and not be sad if I didn't see someone enough times.

Then I got to go to UT for a Baby Blessing. Got to see minimal friends and a short time with family, but it was still fun.

Check out the pics. and see what I have been having fun with!

Fun times

2009-10-25T16:25:00.000-07:00

I got in the Halloween spirit by going to a Haunted House with my sis, her hubby and my friend, Richard. (yes, he is just a friend...)We had so much fun! We went to dinner first and my sis wanted to use a coupon.. but they were not good for a Sat. night-- so the manager let us have FREE MEALS! NICE!!! I liked the haunted house. I don't let myself get too into it, but it sure was dark and just fun.

Yesterday I went to the air show. What a perfect day for it! Hardly a cloud in the sky. Poor Kinsee hated the loudness of the planes. I LOVE IT!!! Kaileigh slept right through it! It is so amazing how the Blue Angels can fly so close together! Just amazing.

I finished The Last Lecture. I really liked it. Lots of good ideas. We will pick our next book tomorrow. Not sure what that will be. I have decided I like young adult books best. I tried to start Da Vinci code, but I couldn't make it past the first chapter...stupid, I know... but the guy that causes himself pain?! ugh. Couldn't read about it. (I am prepared for my brother's mocking at this point).

So, I have until the end of this week to decide if I will accept the alternate status of ultrasound school. I found out they only accepted 10 people, I am the 3rd alternate... I might as well accept. I can go to school this winter and take the 2 classes I will need for reapplying for the fall.

Work is pretty bad. My hours have really been cut. I work just over 20 hours a week. I have applied for a new job with a foster care agency. We will see if they even look at my resume. I will be spending my mornings job hunting.

I have to wait some more

2009-10-11T08:29:00.000-07:00

I got my letter in the mail yesterday. I was all excited because it came in a thick packet...well.. I was accepted as an ALTERNATE. That means 12 people were accepted and I am one of three to be accepted as an alternate. I have to do all the things the accepted students do and wait until at least Nov. 1 to see if I am really accepted. The pride has been injured. Thoughts of "is this what I really want to do?" creep in. sigh.
Work-- I am hourly in Wax. I try to get 20 hours in at a Dallas center. Now they have hired a girl for the Dallas center to do what I do (she starts in 2 weeks)- because I was not a long term solution (everyone assumed I would get in to school and couldn't wait 3 days for my letter to come!) sigh.

I did get to go shopping yesterday. That was fun! Got to love new clothes and a new pair of boots!

I got to spend time with sis and 4 youngest kids. We tried to watch FAME...not a good movie for a 3 and 2 year old. Not good for a 32 year old either...too boring. We did have to leave early because we were bothering the 5 other people in the theater, but manager was glad we chose to leave and gave me a rain check! NICE.

Loving the cool weather here. Totally makes it feel like Fall! Got to love this time of year!

Now I Wait

2009-10-04T17:14:00.001-07:00

I have learned that I am directionally challenged when someplace is new to me. Now that I work in Dallas some days of the week I am trying to learn all the intersections/ highways... needless to say I do not love city driving! It took me a half hour to go maybe five miles on Friday. UGH!
When I went to my interview on Sat. I was barely giving myself a cushion. That cushion was taken away by "hard labor men" tearing the stripes off the interstate! Seriously down to one lane on a Sat. morning! When I arrived at the college I walked in, sort of figured out where to go, I was about to ask a girl if I was in the right place when a woman came out asking for Jennifer! That was me! I went in to the room, tables set up in a square-- about 7 people on the panel. They asked me about 10-15 questions (which took 5 min. to answer) and I was done! I did have them laughing some so I think that was good. I think it went well. I didn't think I was too nervous but when I went into the restroom after my chest was so RED! So, I guess I was more nervous than I thought. The school will mail the acceptance/denial letters at the end of next week. Guess I can wait that long.
As many of you know, I am not in to the whole scary movie thing. I have been to a few lame haunted houses. I did like a corn maze in college... but here in Dallas there is a 1/2 mile long haunted house. It is not for small children. I am beginning to think I am in that category. Well-- the point of this is that I have tickets to this haunted house and I think I am going on Sat. I will either enjoy it or talk myself into thinking it is lame and not allow myself to enjoy it. I HATE BEING SCARED! Well-- at least I will have others with me.

Here we go

2009-09-28T19:14:00.000-07:00

I interview with the ultrasound school on Sat. I get 15 min. to convince them I am in the top 12. I am a little nervous about it. (I am now in the top 25). I am going to see a friend on Friday to learn more about it at the hospital level. He is a radiologist... and the one who got me thinking about ultrasound.

Had the first Stake Enrichment ( I mean RS meeting) on Sat. it actually went well. However, our stake building had no satellite so I didn't get to see the broadcast. I have been watching it on lds.org

Work is making me crazy. Now that I am covering 2 centers (in Dallas and Wax.) I feel like there is not time for anything! grr. Doing 2 centers in a day is a little crazy. o-well. At least I have a job!

Birthday Fun

2009-09-13T16:00:00.001-07:00

I had a great birthday this year. I like turning older. Why not. Why fight it? Makes me feel wiser! haha. I got to work....have lunch with a friend...my sister and the babies brought me homemade cards and homemade oreos! YUM! They were so good! Last night we all went to Red Robin (minus Larry-- silly weather makes him sick!) We had a good time. I have wonderful family and friends YEAH!!! Thanks everyone for making another year special!

Utah Vacation

2009-09-12T17:37:00.000-07:00

Saturday I got to be there as Miranda was baptized! It was wonderful that we could all be together. Congrats Miranda!

Monday we climbed Timpanogos Caves. That was a lot of fun! I hadn't done it since I was 12ish. I remember the trail being wider...and shorter! LOL. I did quite well I think. Sadly I was so sore the following 2 days. Sigh. So much for my exercise this summer.

Monday evening I got together with some friends for an early birthday party! The food was FANTASTIC. It is always wonderful to catch up with long-time friends!

Tuesday I got to see even more friends! (Anji, Christy, Emily, Carrie, Angela, Becky, and Darlene) I really do love the time we have to get together, even if it isn't for long-- it keeps me going! Yes, I really miss you all!!

pics of summer

2009-08-17T19:13:00.000-07:00

Darlene visit

2009-08-17T10:16:00.000-07:00

I just love it when Darlene comes! We shop, eat, and just have so much fun! My whole family loves her so we can all have good fun.
This trip we got to relax in the pool. (Darlene was a little red!! not used to the Texas sun!) We ate at Babes (such a favorite of mine!) We went and saw "Julie and Julia". So funny. We shopped-- Can you say Sam Moon?! The best place for purses and jewelry. We got facials (oh how I love to relax!!!)We went to the Mesquite rodeo! So fun!! Family was with us for most of this so there are good pictures coming on Rachel's blog. Let's hope she sends them to me.
Darlene and I sang "For the Beauty of the Earth" at church yesterday. I know there were a few mess ups by each of us, but it was just fine. We also went and played games at Richard's house. Always a ton of fun! I won a game of pass the pigs!! Darlene killed Richard and I at Phase 10. There will have to be a rematch!
Thanks for coming to see me Darlene! A great trip and the most needed break from work!

THE BEST NEWS-- I GOT AN A in Anatomy and Physiology 1!! WAHOO!!!!

pics of swim fun

2009-07-26T08:58:00.001-07:00

Swim fun

2009-07-26T08:41:00.000-07:00

The best thing about summer is swimming...and ice cream. I finally got around to taking some pictures of the kids swimming. Kamden was doing the hokey-pokey too. He is a crackup. Kinsee was being a little sassy, but having fun too. We got some rain/ cloudy days this week so the pool cooled off!!! It was nice to have a cool pool when it was 100* yesterday.
I am really boring lately. Class is sort of wrapping up which means lets cram 5 chapters down your throat and take a test 3 classes later! ugh. Aug. 6 is not soon enough. Not sure when I will find out from Weatherford Co. if I get accepted to the program. I first have to do an interview, so if I get to do that, then I know I am in the top 25!!
Darlene is supposed to come and visit me in Aug. before she starts school. That will be fun!

stuff

2009-07-12T18:53:00.001-07:00

I haven't written in a bit, but I am not too sure what to tell! School is going well. I have done pretty decent on the tests. I am enjoying the class. I have mostly finished my application for the sonography school. I had to take an entrance exam on Friday. It went well. I knew the reading would be fine. I studied for the math so that went okay. The science-- not so great. I took about 15 min. for the 55 min. section. I just didn't remember my grade school science! sheesh. The grammar was okay. I was never very good at commas, and that is still true!
Texas is so HOT! We need a serious rain to cool things off. At least we were able to shoot off fireworks on the 4th.
Work is work. It is good for now. I hope we can keep most of our student load into the fall.
I am most excited for the 6th Harry Potter movie to come out. I have reread the 6th and 7th books in prep for this. I have borrowed the 4th and 5th movies.... I just love the books and movies!!!!!

Introducing: Kaileigh Jeanette Saling

2009-06-27T14:59:00.000-07:00

Arrived: June 26, 2009 at 2:03 PM
Weighing in at: 8 pounds
Length: 19 inches
Lots of dark hair-- yeah!!!

I was grateful for the opportunity to be with my sister on this day.

Hot Air

2009-06-21T08:12:00.000-07:00

It is HOT in Texas! Good thing I work inside.
Yesterday I got to earn extra credit for my class by helping the Lions Club at the Hot Air Balloon Show. I took money for parking. There were surprisingly a TON of people there! It was advertised as being a free event-- but nothing is ever free (parking, food, helicopter rides). The sad thing was the hot air balloons couldn't even take off. It was barely too windy. They were supposed to be doing a balloon glow to music. I am sure it was neat, but there was no way after 4 1/2 hours of standing that I was going to hang out-- and who would want to get stuck in all of that traffic!!!

Work and school are going okay. I need more time to study. This week my teacher could tell I was quite stressed out and asked when it was all going to calm down... sigh--never?! So I am trying to study more so I can do better. Guess when you show up to class wearing a Sylvan shirt the teacher expects you to be at the top of the class and not in the middle! I will keep trying.

Keep Swimming

2009-06-14T17:29:00.000-07:00

I took my lab test on Thursday. I do indeed have to have EVERYTHING memorized. So crazy! The more you try something the easier it gets right? The next unit is bones. Over 200 bones I will be tested on. I think I can.. .I think I can... I think I can.

I finished Rereading the 6th and 7th Harry Potter books. I am ready for the 6th movie to come out. I just love Harry Potter world. I think I might go reread the last few chapters once more-- I just don't like the story being over! I want more!!!

Work has been a little crazy. I think it might slow down after this week.

Whew!

2009-06-09T17:44:00.000-07:00

Took my first Anatomy and Physiology test-- with the curve I got an 82. I am still deciding how I feel about that. I think I am okay with it. I would like a better score next time. This time I did have 5 chapters that were included. The good thing is that being in class really helps (shocker, I know)--so I will continue going to class and reading the chapters!! At least I know a little of what to expect.
Thursday I have a lab test. Without a word bank I have to identify 31 types of tissue and label parts of the body. Memorizing.. so not my favorite.
Other news-- work is really picking up which is good. Need those kids to make money!
Got the full refund back on my Kenny Chesney tickets! Woo-hoo!! that paid for my summer class!

First Sunburn

2009-05-29T17:15:00.000-07:00

Alas-- I have not learned to put sunscreen on. Memorial Day I got a nice burn on arms and face.... today I now have a burn on lower back on up. My shoulders are feeling the heat right now. I bet I don't sleep too good tonight. sigh. The rest of the summer I will be better! It is my quest.
The pool is feeling wonderful. So glad I have part of Friday and Sat. off so I can enjoy it weekly.
I started class last night. My teacher is a chiropractor so he at least knows his stuff-- and he has good stories too! Since he is 40 I get his jokes! It is fun for me to think I understand them while the 18-20 year olds sit there and are confused. HA! 2nd time at college will be so much better. There are about 20 of us in the room. Kind of cramped, but o-well. He uses the book so that is great too! We will cover 17 chapters in 12 weeks. I think the Anatomy part will be okay-- the physiology part may stump me. I am a little worried about all the memorization. I was never very good at that. O-well I will stay positive and all will be well!
It was good to see Grandma and Grandpa. It is hard to see them aging so much. I worry about G'pa being alone at the trailer. I told G'ma she and G'pa will have to share a room. She said she didn't want to because they would be calling each other's names all night making sure they are okay! Cute. I really like Chris and Pam's yard. Chris put in a small pond--the fish keep it clean (he adds salt so a bottom feeder can be there.) Maybe for Dad's birthday i will get him a Lowe's card so he can get himself one for our backyard. (Get rid of the silly fountain that just has grass in it.)
Sylvan is picking up some. I sure hope we get more kids so the summer is good to us.

Kenny Part 2

2009-05-17T17:03:00.000-07:00

Alas-- Kenny did reschedule... and it was for today. It is NOT raining, it is a beautiful day... but it is Sunday. I had already decided I wouldn't go today... and then I found out I could get my $$ back for the cancelled concert! How cool is that!!! So, I await my refund. ($$ will go to tuition)..
I have my Anatomy and Physiology book!!! I think I will start reading it this week. I will take it with me to Missouri... and I will start making vocabulary flash cards. We'll see how much I get done between now and May 28 when class starts. I just really want to do well...and think I can do better at studying now than last time I was in school.
I have been going to Coppell again. I am training new people on how to do what I do. It is a lot of fun. I am also training a lady at my center--I really like training people, hopefully this will make it easier when I need to be to school full-time.
It is pool time here. I have been getting the water checked....and I bought recliners for the pool area. (Thanks to Kaijsa I got 4)-- so we can all hang out at the pool. I am looking forward to summer....maybe not the heat, but that's okay.
Dad spent the week in Utah. I had the house to myself. Sounds so exciting, but not really. It is good to have him back.

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T09:49:00.000-07:00

I miss you Mom!

Kenny Part 1

2009-05-04T18:04:00.001-07:00

I have been looking forward to the Kenny Chesney Concert for some time. I knew it would likely rain, as it has hardly stopped raining for the last week. I was not disappointed-- the rain started practically the second Lady Antebellum started. Ah-well a little rain never stopped me. They were great. I really enjoyed Lady A. Miranda Lambert sang too. The young ones liked her-- not my style of country-- hardly country I say. After she was done the rain was just too much. We left and glad we did as Kenny had to stop his set,--- HE RESCHEDULED! WAHOO! I will get to hear him in 2 weeks.

Looking into becoming a ultrasound tech. The program I want to get into only has 10 people a year!!! yikes! Let's hope I can get the grades and interview well!

Moment of silence

2009-04-29T18:22:00.001-07:00

The time has come for me to have my first cavity filled tomorrow. I am so sad! I was so close to 32 before this happened! (I just wanted to know how long I could make it).

This past weekend I went to the Arlington Singles Activity. I know I am on the "young" end for SA, but man oh man!!! I feel real young at these things!!! Needless to say I think I saw 3 guys within 10 years of me....and one I knew from college...At least I go. Good thing the speakers were really good. (And they did remind us that we are there for learning...not to get a date....hmmnnn-- why don't they have married activities? sheesh.)

So looking forward to the concert on Sat.!

grrr

2009-04-21T19:07:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to get my transcripts sent to Navarro so I can get my acceptance and register for classes. Apparently BYU sent them, but they haven't arrived in 2 weeks! I called and discovered BYU has my ex-married name. I so don't remember changing my name! Needless to say I had to go through the hassle of changing it and resending my transcripts. After 2 years I thought I had FINALLY fixed everything! sheesh.

What's Up

2009-04-17T15:03:00.001-07:00

Easter came and went. It was nice to have Rachel's family over for some yummy food. Got to help Kinsee find those Easter eggs. Deviled eggs are so my favorite.
The flowers around the yard are happy. Thank goodness for the rain...otherwise they would not be so happy.

I have decided to go back to school. I will start classes this summer at Navarro. I will then apply for Physical Therapy Assistant school at Tarrant Co. (In Hurst--wherever that is.... near Ft. Worth). It is an Associates Degree-- somewhat backwards I know.... I will make a little more money and hopefully have a little more stability than I have been having recently.

I have been keeping busy these past 2 weeks by going to Coppell (north Dallas) to help a Sylvan center...I at least get to charge them a lot for my knowledge. I will attempt to get a girl trained in the next few weeks so I can stop all the driving.

Other than that not much going on. A concert is coming up so that should be fun!

Texas Bluebonnets

2009-04-04T16:12:00.001-07:00

Wanted to share some of the pictures that were taken today. This is my second attempt so let's see what happens!

Kamden had fun throwing his football around the field. I thought it was lost for a minute there!

Kaijsa turns sweet 16 next Sunday. What fun for her! She is getting to be a great driver and I know the boys will be happy to ask her out.

Kaitlyn will turn 12 in May. She is a lot of fun to have here. She likes to read the same books as me and so that is fun for me.

Little Princess, Kinsee, would not stand alone today-- she didn't like the grass! So, still cute as can be this is just fine with me!

Rachel and Larry-- looking so nice! My sister has a birthday soon too!!!! Thanks for letting me take the pictures.

And me-- there you go!

Totally different note, I watched the movie Eragon last night. I HATED it. It was too far from the story. So frustrating.

Museum

2009-03-29T08:31:00.000-07:00

Life gets back to normal all too quickly. Work is work...
I am currently reading the Eragon series. It is good! It is easy reading (compared to Lord of the Rings)--anyway I do like it. I am in the second book, Eldest.
For my book club next month we are reading John Adams. I look forward to reading it, but know it will take me awhile to get through it.

Friday night I attempted to have Kamden and Kinsee spend the night. We got home and Papa had dinner ready. They had already eaten so Kinsee wasn't interested, but Kamden ate! Then we played and watched Sleeping Ubey (Beauty for those that don't speak 3 year old). Then I let them take a bubble bath and that was fun for them...until Kinsee fell. When it came time to go to bed Kamden wanted to go home... so I took them back home. It was fun.

Saturday I met a college friend and we went to the Dallas Holocaust Museum. It was a nice museum, small, not too overwhelming. Now I would love to go to the one in DC. We then went and ate at Chipotle. YUM. We are going to get together more often and do Dallas, Ft.Worth touristy things. Next is the Stockyards.

Although it is Spring this weekend has been COLD and windy. I hope the bluebonnets survive so we can take pictures in a field of bluebonnets!

2009-03-18T14:01:00.000-07:00