Blended Joy

Happy New Year to our family and friends!

2011-12-28T18:26:00.011-07:00

So, how did you do on your 2011 New Year's Resolutions??? Here is my list...

1. Read at least one book each month. (ok, not so hard for me....but I do seem to go long stretches without reading and that is just no good) CHECK!

2. Have FHE more regularly. UMMM....CAN WE TRY AGAIN THIS YEAR?

3. Crochet an "awesome" afgan. STILL IN PROGRESS! ALL THE RED SQUARES ARE DONE! JUST BLACK AND WHITE TO GO!

4. Incorporate more color into my work wardrobe. A LITTLE BIT....COULD STILL USE A LITTLE MORE WORK IN THIS AREA.

5. Get a new family picture taken. SEE ABOVE! (WELL, IT'S JUST A SNAPSHOT....)

6. Keep blogging!! WATCH FOR A 2011 IN REVIEW...SOON TO COME!

Are you ready to cut "Footloose?"

2011-10-14T10:59:00.002-06:00

Gracie is getting baptized!

2011-10-02T21:57:00.002-06:00

The girls of Spring softball.....

2011-06-01T12:46:00.000-06:00

Malz is playing softball with Kara and Shayla this year! They are quite a hoot! We have had so many games rained out and it has never really warmed up....but it is still fun to watch some of "the cousins" don their uniforms and bat around the bases!

And, you never know who is going to show up to watch the games! Ah, the JOY of SOFTBALL!

Rites of Passage

2011-05-25T10:30:00.019-06:00

....first word....first step....potty training....first day of school....learning to ride a bike....These are some of the milestones we all reach as we grow and develop. Earlier this month, two of our family reached one of their milestones....And we were there as they passed from one phase of life to the next!
GRACIE-FIRST GRADE CIRCUS

Yes, it's true! It was Gracie's turn to entertain the City of Grantsville while performing in the FIRST GRADE CIRCUS!
We were so proud of Gracie! And "THANKS" to everyone who came out to support her in her MIGHTY CIRCUS GLORY!

MALLORY-EIGHTH GRADE PROMOTION

Mallory stood with her classmates and walked the stage....as they left Jr. High and the world of the Falcons to prepare to become GRANTSVILLE COWBOYS!
We are so proud of her and look forward to her years in High School (did I really just write that???)! I hope I survive!

Gimme a SPRING break!

2011-04-21T15:54:00.022-06:00

For Spring Break this year Mallory headed to our nation's capital...

So, we took Gracie and Isabelle to Southern Utah for a little R & R. It was nice to get out of the clouds and rain and into a little sunshine! We stayed in Kanab and visited Zion and Bryce National Parks! It was beautiful!

It has been such a wet spring.....there were waterfalls everywhere!

We joined my Mom and Dad; Ben, Mel and Cameron; and the Paxman crew!

On one of the hikes, we came across the most amazing sight. At the end of the hike the entire area was covered with "zen" stones! They were everywhere! It was absolutely beautiful. Madeline and Ian added their own balancing towers!

Bryce Canyon wasn't nearly as warm as Zion....But it was so beautiful with the snow on the tops of the cliffs and hoodoos!

We had a great time! We were happy to see the sun again! I had almost forgotten what it looked like! And the weekend was over much too quickly!

Now the countdown to summer vacation begins!!!!!

A little of this and a little of that....

2011-04-13T16:54:00.014-06:00

I know, I know....I haven't updated my blog in a day or two.....things have been pretty busy around the Johnson place.

Mackay bought a car! YAY! No more gas guzzling truck!

Mallory turned 14!!!

Jared and I have been running! I am planning on running the 5K in Grantsville on the Fourth of July!!! Jared has lost over 50 lbs! He looks and feels awesome!

April started out with some exciting events! Gracie fell in the shower and broke one of her front teeth! OUCH! But Bubba (the dentist) fixed her up! We will have to keep an eye on her tooth for a while to make sure everything heals just right....

Then Malz had to take her turn.....She broke two bones in her PINKY at softball practice! The doctor thinks things will heal just fine, but NO softball for 3-4 weeks. Maybe we need to lock Isabelle in the house so she doesn't break anything! (as if!!!)

We are all looking forward to Spring....if it ever arrives here in Utah! I am ready to plant flowers and eat dinner on the back patio!

Oh, I almost forgot.......have you been here?

Well, we have!!!! After a year of work and preparation, Jared and I were sealed to each other in the Jordan River Temple on March 25, 2011. It was a great day! Now he will belong to me....for ever and ever!

Not up.....Down!

2011-02-23T15:47:00.010-07:00

Jared and I have been on the weight loss train for a couple of months now. Choo Choo!!

And, yes, Jared has lost more than DOUBLE what I have lost! I know men tend to lose more weight more quickly than women but it still doesn't make be feel that much better. But, Jared is so supportive! I rather enjoy taking this journey to healthier living with him! It is so much easier to eat healthy when he is eating healthy too.

Tuesday is our "official" day to weigh in. So, I get on the scale and I am up .5!! WHAT?? Can that be right? I haven't changed anything.....I haven't been sneaking treats.....but I am still UP! So, I have been feeling a little bit DOWN and DISCOURAGED! I don't skip the fries to get on the scale gain .5!!!

So, my sweet Jared has been sending me words of encouragement. Trying to keep me on the right track. After all, if you drop one egg you don't throw the rest of the carton on the floor, right?

Still, I am not feeling too great about myself. Then I see it...

And it says: "I love you Emily Johnson!!! I also LOVED you 13 pounds ago and that will not change!"

All I could do is...

Day Three-What a Character!!

2011-02-03T20:08:00.033-07:00

What is a trip to Disneyland without those awesome Disney CHARACTERS??? Nothing!! And we definitely saw some real characters...

Woody and Jessie were the first!

We saw Alice and her gang...

And Flynn...

...Dumbo was flying and Goofy made us laugh...But the wicked queen wouldn't smile for anything...

The County Bears danced with Gracie and Isabelle...they havent been at the park for 5 years!

Aladin and Jasmine made an appearance...

Mr. Incredible was truly "incredible"...And Lightning McQueen was lookin good..."Ka-Chow"

Snow White was sweet...

Best of all some of our favorite characters showed up to play with us....Do you recognize these guys?? We loved seeing the California Nielsen's!!

And who are these characters???? They look pretty scary...
It was another great day.....And we went home EXHAUSTED!!

Day Two-"First Visit"

2011-02-01T18:20:00.024-07:00

We finally made it to the gates of Disneyland! It was a beautiful day! The sun was as warm as our hearts! We started our first day in the happiest place on Earth....

And so was EVERYONE else!

But the castle was a beautiful as ever!!!

We rode on a ship and a train....We went on a jungle cruise and climbed up to Tarzan's house.

In the afternoon, Mackay and Mallory joined us for some fun and a ride with Indiana Jones...

But there was no rest until we made a trip to the TOWER of TERROR!
The tower was a HIT! Everyone loved it!It was another GREAT day! And we were exhausted!!!

Day One-Newport Beach

2011-02-01T17:56:00.009-07:00

On our first day in California we decided to rent a van (12 PASSENGER) and take the kids to the beach. Gracie and Isabelle had never seen the ocean. It was quite an adventure....I don't think Jared will be running out to buy a 12 passenger van anytime soon (Whew!). The water was cold but that didn't seem to stop the kiddies...

It was a GREAT day!

The best part....

2011-01-26T09:25:00.002-07:00

So, if you know us, you know we leave for the "Happiest Place on Earth" tomorrow morning! We are really excited to get away but the best part is.....

We will ALL be together!

It has been a long time since we have been on a trip together where the whole family has been there! With Mackay graduated and working, we don't get to see him nearly as often as we would like. It will be so great to spend five whole days as a WHOLE family! I really think that will be the best part!

Now I am ready.....

2011-01-25T09:00:00.005-07:00

...to leave Utah for a few days! I leave home for work and there is no snow in sight. Nothing on the ground...nothing coming down...there is no snow! Once I get to work, look...
What the ???? A few days in California is sounding better and better with every passing moment! Now, if I can just make it through the next two days at work...

Can I make "granny" proud?

2011-01-07T12:09:00.006-07:00

If you read my blog you know I have a goal to crochet an afgan in 2011.....technically, I want to crochet an "awesome" afgan! So, I started looking for a pattern for a "granny square." Well, apparently I am not the best at reading patterns. The granny squares were getting the best of me! I tried quite a few different patterns and it just didn't seem to work very well.....so I called on good 'ol You Tube for assistance. I was able to find several how to videos for crocheting a granny square. After watching a few different demonstrations (several times) I was able to make this:

Could it be? Did I do it? I wasn't quite sure so I tried it again...and WHA LA! Two granny squares!

Now, do I dare to put more than one color in a square??? I am not quite sure I am ready for that but you never know!

WHAT JUST HAPPENED?

2011-01-05T08:41:00.004-07:00

I am well aware that I am not the best driver in the world but on the drive to work this morning I was FLIPPED OFF, HONKED AT, and CUT OFF! What the heck?!?! Knowing that I can be a distracted driver, I asked my carpool partner if I was driving particularly horrible today. . . and I was NOT! I was not talking on the phone or putting on my makeup or displaying any one of my other distracted driving behaviors. And yet.....people were nasty today! I arrived at work wondering "What just happened?"

Thought of the Day: Be kind when you are on the road today! Just say "NO" to road rage!

Countdown to DISNEYLAND!

2011-01-04T10:37:00.001-07:00

Jared and I decided this year to give the kids a trip to DISNEYLAND for Christmas! We are so excited!!!! We leave for the happiest place on Earth on January 27, 2011 for five fun filled days in California. We are so excited!!!! We are going with Brandon and Kristina and their kids as well! We are so excited!!!! The girls ask every morning, "How many days until we go to Disneyland?" Well....today we have

23 days!

We are so EXCITED!!!!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-03T10:13:00.004-07:00

Well, here we are in a brand new year! It is time once again to evaluate how I spend my time and make some goals for the new year. I hate to call them "resolutions" because those just never seem to work out. But there are a few things I would like to accomplish in 2011....

1. Read at least one book each month. (ok, not so hard for me....but I do seem to go long stretches without reading and that is just no good)
2. Have FHE more regularly.
3. Crochet an "awesome" afgan.
4. Incorporate more color into my work wardrobe.
5. Get a new family picture taken.
6. Keep blogging!!

And finally.....Jared and I have decided to count points again. We both had success with the Weight Watchers program in the past and want to start it up again. We need to eat more healthy and I know I do a better job when I write down what I eat. We are also turning Mackay's room into a workout room, setting up the treadmill and total gym so we can get some exercise this winter as well. (Sorry Mackay.....)

I feel good about 2011! It will definitely be busy at work but hard work never hurt anyone!

What are your goals for 2011???

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-22T11:34:00.005-07:00

My Christmas Wish To You

If I could wish a wish for you,

it would be for peace and happiness

not only now,

but for the whole year through!

I wish that there always be food on your table.

And that you always remember those less fortunate.

May you always take time to share,

and thank those who share with you.

I wish for time, so you may reflect

on the blessings that you have,

and that you express your love

to those who are dear to you.

May you never feel lonely,

because there are those who care.

That you realize:

you are special,

you are unique,

you make a difference,

not only at Christmas, but all year!

I wish for your thoughts to be positive ones,

that you never quit,

that you never give up,

and that you continue to learn.

I wish for the love, peace, and joy

of Christmas be yours always.

- Catherine Pulsifer

Halloween Tradition....

2010-10-29T17:13:00.011-06:00

If you know me well, you know I dislike carving pumpkins! I would prefer to just skip that tradition! But.....the kids love it! So, the three girls and I headed downtown to get some pumpkins. We bought pizza and invited Mackay to come over and carve! We had a great time!

Mackay-Isabelle-Malz-Gracie

2010 Deer Hunt

2010-10-29T16:40:00.017-06:00

There is no time like the deer hunt! Fathers take their sons (and daughters) out to find that perfect deer! This year was no different. Jared's big hunt was last year. This year it was Dean's turn to find his trophy. So, the Johnson boys headed out to Vernon for a week of male bonding and enjoying nature and all it has to offer! The little Johnson's got their chance to go out and spend time with their daddy's too. Gracie and Isabelle were all suited up and ready!
It was a bit chilly but once we had the fire going, all was well. Dean was extra prepared for the cold weather....he was so bundled up, I almost mistook him for Bea! But, kids don't ever seem to mind the cold.....They has a BLAST!

We left just in time for Good 'ol Mother Nature to snow on the Johnson Boys! But a little snow didn't slow them down a bit.

It looked like they were on the way to success when they hit a bump (literally)! Brady had a little accident on a 4-wheeler. It was actually pretty scary! But after a trip to the ER and about 1,000 stiches (ok, more like 35-40), it looks like he is going to be OK! We are so happy!

Finally, today we got word that a deer had been killed! The Johnson boys will have a lot of stories to tell, but the best one yet is...

CONGRATULATIONS DEAN!!!

What happened to Autumn?

2010-10-25T09:44:00.004-06:00

In Utah we seem to have two seasons....Winter and Summer....very little Spring and very little Autumn. Oh, how we love our wacky weather!?!? Last week it was Autumn, with cool mornings and warm afternoons. It was beautiful! But today.....

There is snow in the tops of the mountains! (Sorry for the poor quality....took the pic outside my windshield with my phone) And I had to turn the furnace on. I know that Halloween is usually COLD but I always hope the weather stays nice until November! But it looks like this year will be the same as all the others! The kiddies will have to bundle up for trick-or-treating. I love Autumn but it sure doesn't last long here in the Rocky Mountains!

Dear Blog:

2010-10-14T08:45:00.002-06:00

Dear Blog:

I have missed you! I am so sorry that I have been away. I have been spending all my time with "Health Care Reform" and he has kept me away from you. But I have told him that we need some time apart....that there is more to life than him....that I need to spend time with my family and get back to my blogging friends. I need to know what they are up to and how they are. And I have so much to share with you too! I will be back soon....

2010 Livestock Show and Auction

2010-08-12T20:19:00.020-06:00

2010 was Mallory's FIFTH year raising lambs and showing them at the Tooele County Fair. It wasn't a bad year at the auction either, despite the stuggling economy. The buyers in Tooele County really come through for the kids in 4-H and FFA. Even though we have been doing this for five years now, it still warms my heart when Malz enters the arena. She has changed so much this last year....It is fun to watch her grow and develop!

Finally, I just had to share a minute of the fair with you. After three days of washing, showing, judging, and waiting, the sell took about one minute. All the time and hard work leads up to this...(this poor lamb was ready for the auction to be over too!)

Duck Creek with the Nielsen's

2010-08-02T22:10:00.003-06:00

Last week we headed down south to Duck Creek with my family. We had a blast! It did rain a bit (quite a bit) but we still had a great time just being together. Here are some pics of the trip!

The Faces of Cameron-2010

2010-07-25T17:45:00.000-06:00

Cameron's First Baseball Game-Mariners VS Yankees

2010-07-25T17:19:00.008-06:00

Doesn't it just seem fitting for Auntie Emily to go with Cameron to his first baseball game? I thought so too....So, off to the Mariner's game we went! I was expecting to see a spanking! Little did I know it was the Yankees who would get SPANKED! It was awesome! An usher came and gave Cameron his first baseball cards too! It was a beautiful night! Good game, good company, good garlic fries...GREAT TIME!

Alki Beach

2010-07-25T16:59:00.012-06:00

We took a day and headed to West Seattle and Alki Beach....There was a "Pirate" festival and we thought we would check it out. On our way there....we got a chance to tour Alki Lighthouse.

The Pirate Festival was not as exciting as we had hoped....but we did see some pirates! And the view of Seattle was amazing!!

Washington Trip-2010

2010-07-25T16:11:00.020-06:00

I headed up to Lake Tapps to visit Ben, Melissa and CAMERON!!! We had a great time! Here are some of the highlights....

We spent a day in Seattle and visited Pike Place Market (of course)!

Sadie Dog loves the water and the weather was so beautiful....We spent a lot of time down by the lake!

I think Cameron likes the water too!

4th of July Celebration-2010

2010-07-05T16:43:00.002-06:00

Seattle or BUST!!

2010-07-02T16:33:00.003-06:00

I got a call from Melissa this morning....reminding me I am coming to see her in Seattle next week! Oh yeah....I forgot....NOT!! I am so excited to see Cam the Man (and Mel and Benny)! I just know he has missed me so much since Memorial Day! Remember this little Cameron?

What a great day that was! You sleeping...me holding you...aw the memories! I can't wait to spend some time SPOILING you! I will be there soon little buddy!

(Melissa is so sweet....she called today to find out if drink diet Pepsi or diet Coke 'cause she is stocking the fridge for me! She is so awesome!!!)

If a picture is worth a 1,000 words....what do these say to you?

2010-06-28T12:07:00.004-06:00

Pineview 2010

2010-06-22T13:30:00.001-06:00

Gracie on the water skiis!!

2010-06-22T13:10:00.007-06:00

Well, our little dare devil, Gracie, has conquered one more skill....WATER SKIING!!!!

For all the people I love.....that means YOU!

2010-06-15T09:01:00.003-06:00

BUCKLE UP!

2010 Graduation....

2010-06-14T12:23:00.001-06:00

Memorial Day Weekend

2010-06-01T15:09:00.005-06:00

All I can say about the weekend is......

I know it's not a great picture....took it with my phone....but I think you get the main idea...

CAMERON + AUNT EMILY = PURE HAPPINESS!

....to be joined again in 37 days!

This just in.....

2010-06-01T14:58:00.004-06:00

Just a few moments ago I received these two pics...

What a beautiful sight! Gracie has just joined the club of the TWO-WHEELERS! She is amazing! She told Jared she is the "first girl EVER to ride without training wheels!" While I would bet that Isabelle would disagree......There is no stopping her now!

GO GRACIE!!!!

Class of 2010

2010-05-24T13:46:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Isabelle!

2010-05-22T13:07:00.007-06:00

Isabelle turned NINE today! I can't believe how much she has grown!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ISABELLE!!

Mallory had a little lamb, little lamb, little lamb...

2010-05-13T09:30:00.008-06:00

You know it's Spring when Malz gets her lambs! This is her FOURTH year raising lambs for the Tooele County Fair and Jr. Livestock Show. It is really fun to watch her grow and learn more each year. Her lambs from last year both had twins this year..... Now she is raising one of the lambs from each set of twins.

I remember the days when she was so nervous to go inside the pen with the lambs.....Now she jumps right in! She is so confident! I love to watch her.....she is so good with animals. She will be a great Vet some day! I will keep you posted on the progress!

What a Weekend!

2010-05-11T09:05:00.008-06:00

Camping season is finally here! Friday afternoon we headed up to Pineview Reservoir for a little R&R. Jared had to work so the girls and I headed up on our own, pulling the pop-up trailer. Jared would meet us after work. I was feeling pretty good about the trip when.... BAM! A blow out! Jared's nightmare come true.....So, Malz and I started to change the tire (next to traffic traveling at about 75 miles per hour). We were struggling a bit but an angel disguised as "Incident Management" happened upon us and finished the job. He was so nice (although I did lock the girls in the car with the phone and told them to call 911 if anything bad happened).

Poor Jared was a wreck worrying about us. But we made it! The girls and I put up the trailer so things would be ready when Jared arrived with the boat.

It was a nice weekend! The weather was good, the boat was fun, and we had raging fires at night. We all had a great time!

(like the snow on the mountain in the background.....the water was FREEZING!)

Where is Mackay, you ask? Well, he and Jess hit the Sadie Hawkins dance on Saturday. Why he would rather go to a dance than camping with his mom.....I will never know! (LOL) But they had a good time. And don't they look adorable?

To top it all off.....Jared surprised me for Mother's Day with a trip to Seattle to visit Cam the Man (and Mel and Ben)! He is sooooooooo good to me! I hope Cameron is ready to get spoiled by his "Aunt Emily!" Weekends are good!

Bling Queen!

2010-05-06T08:46:00.007-06:00

Yesterday, Malz made a visit to the orthodontist. It is time for BRACES! She was so excited! Let me tell ya though...braces are a lot nicer and more exciting than back in the day when I had them...And the orthodontist sure looks a lot younger! (I think Malz has the Doogie Houser of orthodontia for an orthodontist)

Malz is on the path......to a winning SMILE!

starring....."Toothy"

2010-05-05T10:50:00.005-06:00

Everyone who knows me knows I work for a health insurance company (a GREAT one in fact!). Well, recently we have gotten into the "dental" business. Ya know....dental health affects medical health and so on...So, anyway, some creative people at work made a couple of videos, starring "Toothy" himself! They are so cute so I thought I would share them with you!

Can you help me, Doc?

Toothy Lurking

No Way to Hide

Toothy Calling

Toothy Bugging

They are actually pretty entertaining......Don't forget....

Protect Toothy!

Another great day with Xander!

2010-05-03T09:25:00.011-06:00

I love spending time with Xander! I get to have time with him every other Saturday while Angie and Dave enjoy their hobby, Amtguard (SP?). Now that it is getting a little bit warmer, we get to play outside a bit. On Saturday, after we hung out in the backyard for a while, we went for a walk....Xander rode in the wagon. He was so funny! He barely moved the whole time....but he seemed to love it! We saw dogs and goats and chickens.....and a big tractor!

Okay, okay.....I know the hat is pink! It was just a little cool and I didn't want his ears to freeze. And the pink hat is the only one I have that would fit him. I know pink won't do so I got to work and made him a hat. Now he won't have to wear the pink hat again. Watch.....now it will warm up and he won't need to wear it! Ah....that's okay....it should work for next year too! It was a good day!

The new view...and feeling blue

2010-04-30T09:25:00.004-06:00

The weather is really getting me down! Tomorrow is May 1st and we still have cold temperatures with rain and SNOW! We are supposed to go camping/boating next weekend and this is what I see when I look out the window...

How can I think about packing swimming suits and getting in the water when the sky is so grey? Mother Nature please warm things up!

(BTW-Do you like the view from my new office window? Good-bye, golf course...Hello, city bus! Although, Taco Time is quite lovely isn't it?)

I miss these faces!

2010-04-29T11:18:00.006-06:00

My brother, Loren, and his family have moved to California. They are the cutest family ever! I miss them.....especially Rowan and Lia! Even though I didn't see them everyday, it was nice to know they were close and they would head West for a visit as often as they could! Now they are so far away! How can you not just SMILE from ear to ear when you see these gorgeous faces! We love and miss you!

Thought of the Day...

2010-04-26T16:25:00.005-06:00

"Baseball was, is and always will be to me the best game in the world."

-Babe Ruth

Speaking of baseball...Jared and I went to the SL Bees game on Friday night. It was a pretty blustery day but the weather cleared up by the first pitch! It was still a bit chilly but it was worth it! It was a good game! Good company, good seats, good entertainment, BASEBALL IS GOOD!

AAAAhhhh-Choo!

2010-04-17T10:41:00.000-06:00

My allergies have hit-in a MAJOR way! I went from "YAY, it's Spring" to watery eyes, drippy nose, sinus pressure, and sneezing!

We finally get rid of the cold and snow (I hope) and now we get to enjoy allergies and gnats! I'm just glad the tulips are blooming! They are my FAV!

Things that made me smile today....

2010-04-16T10:20:00.008-06:00

I am sitting here at my desk, pondering the fact that I wish I was home with Jared and feeling a little blue. So, I went through the pictures on my phone and realized that while I can't be home hanging with the hubby, I have quite a bit to smile about...

A nice, new office...

Four kids jumping on the trampoline together...

A text from Cam the Man.....well, Mel sent it but I know it was from him!

A goat hanging out on the side of the road....another joy of living in a small town!

(I miss my goat!)

Gracie catching at the softball game last night...

AND simply knowing when I get home, Jared will be there!!!! It truly is the simple things in life that make me happy!

On the Move

2010-04-09T11:39:00.005-06:00

At work, we have grown out of our building.....So, SelectHealth is moving! We have been scanning, purging, and shredding for months. I spent the last three days packing. My work life fits inside four moving bins! At noon today, my computer and phone will be turned off for the last time in this office.

BUT...on Monday morning, I will be in a new office, in a new building, with new EVERYTHING! It will definitely be an adventure! (Especially when the other 2/3rds of the building won't be there yet!)

My new book....

2010-04-01T09:30:00.003-06:00

I have started a new book.....It's a book about a vampire hunter but not your average vampire hunter....
Who'd a thunk????

Winter is back?????

2010-03-31T16:22:00.008-06:00

This was the view of my patio on Sunday afternoon...

This is the view outside my office window right now....

WHAT THE HECK???? Did I miss something or did winter return? Silly me.....I forgot.....I live in Utah and it's SPRING!!!!! BRU-THER!

And the winner is......

2010-03-31T16:21:00.000-06:00

A NEW CUT AND COLOR.....(just in case you were wondering)

Is it OK to be grey?

2010-03-25T18:58:00.006-06:00

It is WAY past time for me to have my hair done! But I can't help but wonder why I am continually fighting the inevitable??? MY HAIR IS TURNING GREY!

Isn't that okay? Isn't it natural? And yet, tomorrow I head to the salon for a cut and color. Oh how I loved the days when I colored my hair JUST FOR FUN! When did it all have to change?? I have noticed a little patch of grey right in front above my right eye and I can't help but wonder how I would look if I just left it and let the grey come out to play? Am I still too young to be grey? Is Jared way too young to have a grey-haired wife? I hate hair dilemas!
Stay tuned to see who wins out.....Mother Nature or Miss Clairol???

Happy Birthday Malz!!!

2010-03-23T12:24:00.005-06:00

It's been 13 years since I held that little baby girl with the scrunched up face.....wondering what I would do with a GIRL?!?! What a frightening moment! But now I look at her and she is becoming a strong young woman and I am so proud of her......She is my daughter and I am lucky to have her! She definitely keeps things interesting!

Happy Birthday Mallory!!!

Cruise-Cabo San Lucas

2010-03-15T21:13:00.025-06:00

Breakfast on the ship...YUM!!

As we reached Cabo San Lucas...we watched several whales swim by.... They were awesome!

There were two other cruise ships in the port and we had to take "tender" into Cabo! While we wee waiting we took in the scenery!

One of the highlights of the day was watching a little boy play the xylophone. He was adorable!

We didn't have much time in Cabo but it was a good day!!!

Cruise-Day One

2010-03-15T20:50:00.009-06:00

What the HECK????

I thought we were going to Mexico-not Seattle!

But, hey....we aren't at work! And the evening turned out so nice!

Collin and Allison getting frisky at dinner!

Back to work.....

2010-03-15T10:23:00.001-06:00

Well, today life is back to normal. Vacation is over...boo hoo! But we had a great time! It was so nice to have Jared all to myself for seven whole days! I will post some pictures later tonight! Just wanted you to know I am still alive!

Now I have a week's worth of blogs to catch up on....

Missouri - - Misery

2010-02-26T09:04:00.006-07:00

Yesterday, Jared left for Missouri to hunt snow geese.
I MISS HIM ALREADY! He will only be gone until Monday and I want him to have some fun "man" time with his buds......but it is hard to be away from him. I guess I am just a big baby!

Baby....I'm good to go!

2010-02-23T09:09:00.003-07:00

I have had a bit of "blog block" lately. And really no time to blog anyway....work has been INSANE! There is no time for anything! And I have been a bit crabby when I get home at night. Work is really getting to me. But there is a light at the end of the tunnel...

Jared and I leave for the Mexican Riveria in ELEVEN days! I am ready for sun, fun, no phone, no computer, and some serious alone time with my husband!

A little too knifty??

2010-02-07T20:56:00.006-07:00

If you know me at all...you know I am not very talented when it comes to the domestic things of life. My family has gagged down many a failed dinner recipe. I don't even own a sewing kit so sewing on a button is a major undertaking. Wwweeelll...Malz got a "Knifty Knitter" for Christmas. I thought it would be fun so I tried it out myself....AND IT IS!! I have kind of taken over the looms. I started with a beanie...

It was a great way to get used to the loom. It wasn't perfect but it wasn't a total failure either. The beanie gave me hope! Maybe, just maybe, I will be able to actually make something that isn't a total BOMB. So, I tried again....this time I made a scarf!

Not too bad if I say so myself! But, alas, I guess I got little OVER CONFIDENT!! I decided to try another beanie. A beanie to keep my Sunshine warm! So, Jared and I went to the store and he picked out some nice and cozy wool yarn. This was going to be awesome! I was determined to make a beanie he could be proud to wear! Jared's final words were...."Make sure you make it big enough." Will do honey!

WHA-LA!!!

A beanie fit for a king! Or at least the Cat in the Hat! I guess the Knifty Knitter got the best of me this time! Sorry, Jared!

(Thanks to my models, Mack, Jess and Malz)

Ouch-eee!

2010-02-05T13:28:00.006-07:00

This morning, I spent some time standing in a line...a line of adults...adults waiting for immunizations!! Yes, it's true! We have a new immunization policy at work and we if don't get immunized...we don't work! So like a good little girl, I did as I was told. Can I tell you something?

IT HURTS!!!

What the heck?? And I didn't even get a Hello Kitty bandaid! I have a new appreciation for the children of the world who get immunized everyday. No wonder they are cranky....my arm really hurts...

And I get to go back and have a BOOSTER in a month!! Lucky me!!

My conversation with a police officer.....

2010-02-03T11:44:00.007-07:00

Officer- "Ma'am, 15 miles over the speed limit is way too fast."
Me- "Yes, it is."
Officer-"I clocked you going 65 when the speed limit is 50."
Me-"Wow, I didn't realize I was going that fast! And, I thought the speed limit here is 55?"
Officer-"No, it's 50. You know, we don't try to trick you....there is a big white sign with the number 50 on it so you know what the speed limit is."
Me-(Smile) "I am really sorry. I was just chatting and didn't realize how fast I was going."
Officer-"65 in a 50 zone is just too fast."
Me-(Smile) "I agree. I should not have been going that fast. I'm not used to driving this road. See where I live?"
Officer-"Grantsville, huh? Well, I guess out there you can go whatever speed you want through the cow fields."
Me-(Laugh) "I try not to speed because my brother-in-law is an officer in Grantsville and I don't want him to pull me over."
Officer-What is his name?"
Me-"Jim White."
Officer-"Oh, I don't know him."
My friend who is in the car with me-"Do you know any WJ officers?"
Officer-"Ya, why?"
My friend-"Well, my husband is an officer for WJ."
Officer-"And you let her speed!?!?!?"
Me-(Smile) "I didn't realize I was going that fast! I'm so sorry."
Me-(still smiling)...."And I am a newlywed, my husband will be so mad if I come home with a ticket."
Officer-"How long have you been married."
Me-"A year."
Officer-"You aren't a newlywed anymore....the honeymoon is over!"
Me-(Laugh and smile)"Not for me....but if I come home with a ticket, the honeymoon will probably be over now!"
My friend-"It's true, they are still in wedded bliss."
Officer-"Well, you tell your husband you dodged a bullet today. I don't usually give warnings for speed 11 miles an hour over the limit"(hands me my license) "No more speeding, okay?"
Me-"I won't, I promise!"

Was it the smile (thanks Dr. Horsley)? Was it the fact that I had the wife of a fellow cop in the car? Was he just feeling merciful? Whatever it was......I did dodge a bullet and I am so grateful! And the wedded bliss is protected for one more day...

29 skirts and counting...

2010-02-02T09:22:00.004-07:00

If you know me, you know I wear skirts quite often. They are a staple in my work wardrobe. They are comfy and I can dress them up or down. This morning as I was getting ready, I decided to count them....O'Mylanta!

I have 29 skirts!

Who has 29 skirts?? I could almost wear a different skirt every day of the month! Would I? Probably not, but I could! Is 29 skirts too many?? I'm thinking not! I only saw four that I haven't worn for a while. Yes, some are not being used right now because they are not appropriate for the weather but they all pretty much get used. The four that I haven't been using are a little too snug so I will have to decide what to do with them. Tell me my friends.....Am I nuts? Am I the only one out there who has this many skirts? Do you have a certain item of clothing you can't pass up while shopping? Belts? Flip-flops? Pajamas? Socks? Black shoes? T-shirts from Old Navy? Cardigans? Wrinkle resistant shirts from Eddie Bauer? Please don't let it just be ME!!

Who doesn't love Fritos???

2010-01-30T09:46:00.000-07:00

Once it awhile in the random things I come across, I see something that I have to pass on to all my blogging friends. Here is a recipe for Homemade Fritos!!! I am trying these bad boys this weekend!

1/2 cup organic, non-GMO yellow cornmeal

1/2 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup boiling water

1 teaspoon olive oil

1. Preheat oven to 450F degrees.
2. Combine cornmeal and salt in a mixing bowl. Pour in boiling water and stir, add olive oil, and stir until well blended.
3. Drop mixture by heaping teaspoonfuls onto a well-greased baking sheet and press each one with the bottom of a glass. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Makes approximately 3 dozen chips.

YUM-YUM!!!

Giveaway...from Sneakers to Stilletos

2010-01-29T09:26:00.005-07:00

OK Ladies.....One of my favorite bloggers is having a "giveaway" and she has given permission to re-blog it. She is celebrating 6-months of blogging by giving away a pair of earrings she made!!! Rose is adorable!

Click here to check it out and enter!

Thought of the day...

2010-01-25T10:33:00.000-07:00

"In daily life we must see that it is not happiness that makes us grateful, but gratefulness that makes us happy."

- David Steindl-Rast

One of the joys....

2010-01-25T10:03:00.000-07:00

Living in a small town. At times it makes me crazy.....there are no quick trips to the mall, hardware store, fabric store, etc.....especially after 6 PM. There are only two sit-down restaurants in town, where you are actually waited on. Going to a movie is out of the question without driving at least 10 miles. It can be quite inconvenient. But then again, there are other times when I appreciate living where I live.

I went for a walk last night and it was so NICE. It was quiet! There was no traffic! I waved several times people I knew! I felt safe!

Now, I know that bad things can happen anywhere...even in G-ville and I would never totally let my guard down. But I also know if something were to happen, I could knock on just about any door and I would not be turned away.

So, while things may be inconvenient at times.....I'm grateful for the place where I live!

The blogs I stalk!

2010-01-22T09:04:00.003-07:00

For a few months now I have been following (more like stalking) several fashion blogs. I am so addicted to them at this point. I have a hard time if i don't find out what everyone is wearing today. If you are interested, check them out. I have some favorites of course.....Already Pretty - Fell 4 Fashion - and from Sneakers to Stilletos are a few of my favs!

Are you addicted to any blogs???? Or is it just me?

What's in a name???

2010-01-14T11:03:00.001-07:00

The other day I was thinking about names. Our parents carefully and thoughtfully picked our names. Then when we became parents, we did the same for our children. Yet, over time, it seems our names change into NICKNAMES. Our names are replaced with a shorter version or variation of our given name....or changed to a description of a characteristic, job, personality, etc. Nicknames can pretty much come from anywhere....

Jared becomes "Flash" because he is a fast runner for his significant size;
Emily becomes "Em" because she's simply an Em;
Mallory becomes "Malz" (spelled with a "z" not an "s"-she changed it);
Mackay becomes "Mack" unless I am unhappy with him....then he is known as "Son"
Isabelle becomes "Iz"or "Izzy"-I tried "Red" on her the other day and she wasn't sure she liked it; and
Gracie becomes "Goop" for who knows why...it's just what her Dad calls her.

Some nicknames are terms of endearment, others are thrust upon us and we wish to forget they ever existed....Some are created out of circumstance. I have decided that overall nicknames are FUN, as long as they don't tear a person down. It makes me smile to hear Jared's friends call him "Flash" (I heard him called "Flashdance" this weekend....gave me a whole new perspective-Ha Ha).

So, whether you are known as Hummer, Stinky, EJ or Dr. No.....your nickname is part of who you are. Just remember when it's time to pay taxes......It's you that has to pay them.....not Flash!

Wise words....

2010-01-13T09:53:00.000-07:00

Once a year I see my doctor, to check my thyroid hormone levels and update my tummy meds (darn reflux). I have had this same doc for about seven years so he knows me pretty well. I saw him last week. He always asks me about work, the kids, and now Jared. We talked for a while about marriage and what makes a successful marriage. Obviously, we talked about values, communication, spending time together, and stuff like that but one thing he said was.....

"I think the most important key to a successful marriage is to love your spouse for who he is....not what you want him to become."

How true this statement is!!!! Take a minute tonight and look at your spouse and ask yourself if you love him/her for what they are.....

I DO!!!

What made me SMILE today...

2010-01-12T09:38:00.013-07:00

So this is what my drive looked like today...Is it UGLY or what? What a depressing way to start the day....

But when I arrived at work, look what was in my IN BOX...

I found my SMILE!!!!

Thanks Mel-for sending me a ray of SHINESHINE from Seattle!

Read a good book lately???

2010-01-11T16:25:00.009-07:00

MY BRAIN NEEDS FOOD!

My mind is starving! Until last week I had not read a book for almost a year (unless you count the book I read about Dental Insurance Benefits-Woot Woot!) and I need to feed my brain! So, I went to my trusty book list and picked out a book. And the winner was...."The Memory Keepers Daughter." So I spent last week reading. Well, this book did not feed my brain with the kind of food it was craving! You know how sometimes you are hungry so you eat but what you eat doesn't satisfy you? That is were I am! It wasn't a bad book by any means....just not what I was looking for. So my blogging friends, before I head back to the book list....ANY SUGGESTIONS? Has anyone other there read a fab book they would like to recommend?

Side note...Please no John Grisham, Dan Brown, Stephanie Meyers, or Nicholas Sparks....I have had my fill of them for now.

Bring on the book titles.....I am ready!

I can't contain myself any longer.....

2010-01-07T08:20:00.002-07:00

WE ARE GOING ON A CRUISE!!!

Well, there you have it! I didn't want to be silly by announcing a trip but I am so excited! And, I needed to put a counter on my blog so I could actually SEE the time passing! Jared is so sweet! He totally surprised me with the news on Christmas! Isn't he awesome??? Some fab friends are going with us too! I can hardly wait! Here we come CABO!!!

Thought of the Day....

2010-01-06T10:37:00.012-07:00

This may not be the cheeriest of thoughts.....but sometimes we need to be reminded that what doesn't kill us makes us stronger.

"Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars."
- Khalil Gibraned

One more thought from our beloved Scarlet O'Hara...don't forget- - "tomorrow is another day."

Seven Days.....No Caffine!

2010-01-04T14:25:00.003-07:00

It's been 7 days....am I really going to say "good-bye" to my beloved diet Pepsi? I am thinking so....

The constant dull headache is pretty much gone! I think I will be okay now! Diet Pepsi and I have been friends for a very long time. I just think it's time we parted ways. Maybe being addicted to caffine isn't the worst addiction out there but it's my addiction and I don't want to be addicted anymore!

I am not totally off pop yet but that is the next thing I plan on tackling (baby steps, baby steps). I'm not getting any younger and I need to focus on my health a little more this year than I did last year.

I think this goal will be easier to reach than my "no shopping for a year goal".....that goal is LONG GONE! But I am still trying to keep the shopping to a minimum. I still have a lot in the closet that must be used.

What are your goals for 2010?

2009-12-28T10:02:00.007-07:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Love- Jared, Em, Mackay, Malz, Isabelle, and Gracie

INVERSION

2009-12-22T08:42:00.007-07:00

According to Wikipedia...."In meteorology, an inversion is a deviation from the normal change of an atmospheric property with altitude. It almost always refers to a temperature inversion, i.e., an increase in temperature with height, or to the layer (inversion layer) within which such an increase occurs. An inversion can lead to pollution such as smog being trapped close to the ground, with possible adverse effects on health. An inversion can also suppress convection by acting as a "cap".

What it really means to me is.....

This is what I see from my windows at work! Grey, foggy, ugliness! We are supposed to get a storm today and while I hate driving in the snow.... a storm would clear out the air! No wonder I have no energy.....

Dinner with the Fam....

2009-12-22T08:26:00.005-07:00

Here is a picture of us having dinner at The Cheesecake Factory with the Nielsen family. It was yummy! And it was awesome to have everyone together again (almost). We haven't been all together since Hawaii (June 2009). It was a fun celebration!

We have a big group (15) so we had a long wait but Maren and Loren got to the restaurant early and got our name on the waiting list. . .so the table was ready when everyone got there. Thanks Loren and Maren! It was really fun! BTW.... Jared is really happy.... he just doesn't smile for pictures. And I know that RED is not one of my best colors.....but it's Christmas.....had to wear it!

2009-12-11T09:38:00.015-07:00

Last night, Jared and the kids picked me up from work so we could go see the Christmas lights at Historic Temple Square. It has been years since I have gone to see "the lights." Little did we know, there was a Jazz game and several concerts were just starting so parking was next to impossible! Once we finally got out of the car we realized just how cold it was! Brrrr! But we are tough so we bundled up and headed out!

After we got back to the car, we had to make one more stop.....to Wendy's for a nice, cold FROSTY!!! YUM!

Christmas Decorations at the office....Oh Brother!

2009-12-10T10:01:00.002-07:00

It was time to decorate our "office space" for Christmas. So, I assigned out the task to a few of the ladies I work with. . . I guess I shudda done it myself! When I came back to my office after a meeting....look what I saw!!! OH-MYLANTA!

Aren't they so sweet to decorate my office door??? Oh, the JOY! Merry Christmas everyone!!!!

I have to say.....the snowman on the board is darling! Do you like the SPORK arms? And even though you can't see it very well.....He is smoking a cigarette!!!! No pipe for our snowman.....just a good 'ol Marlboro! My gals are hysterical! I guess they showed me, didn't they?

PIE NIGHT!

2009-12-08T10:12:00.007-07:00

Because Mom and Dad deserted us on Thanksgiving to travel north to convince little Cameron to come out and play, they invited everyone over for PIE NIGHT on Monday (Family Night)! It was so fun! They come up with the best ideas these days! There were cupcakes for the non-pie eaters too. They should have retired years ago!! (Oh yeah, they did!) Here are some pics from the night! Pie, Pie, me oh my! I love pie!

Winter has hit!!!!

2009-12-08T10:10:00.001-07:00

It's winter in Utah! My 40 minute commute was over 2 hours today! Oh, the joys of a Utah winter!!! GRRR!

A tale of two trees....

2009-12-01T09:35:00.004-07:00

Those who know me well, know I have a little tree issue.....I can't let the kids help decorate the tree! Kids around a tree make me extremely ANXIOUS! Why, I am not sure? I know it sounds horrible but I want my tree decorated in a certain way and a certain order. It's all about the PROCESS! We all know that kids don't work that way. Mackay and Mallory are used to this odd behavior...Isabelle and Gracie are not! So, I bit the bullet and let them decorate the smaller tree in our living room (the main tree is downstairs and I decorated it when they weren't home to avoid any unpleaseantness). I gave them a few instructions so I didn't totally lose it and I left the premises! I started feeling anxious as soon as they started picking up the ornaments....It is better not to watch! When they finished, this is what I saw...They did a great job! (I did move a few things around but tried not to move too much) This is a tradition I may be able to live with...I decorate one tree and let the kids decorate another while I am in another room, city, or state...

The funniest thing is my tree is nothing fabulous! A simple tree that the Festival of Trees would laugh at.... Anyway....Here is MY tree in the basement (the pics are bad, took them with my phone)

One huge step for Emily makes two big smiles for Gracie and Isabelle!

Cameron Michael Morton

2009-11-30T11:38:00.007-07:00

My baby sister is a MOM! WOW! Cameron Michael Morton was born on 11-29-2009 just after 1:00AM! He was a whopping 8 lbs 2 oz and 21 inches long!!!! Whoa Nelly! Mel and Ben did an awesome job though! He's a cutie! Ben has is very own "mini me" now! Mel says Ben is an awesome DAD already! Babies are amazing! The only pics I have are the ones my mom sent through her phone....

Watch for more pics to come on Mel's blog! Now I just have to fight the urge to jump in the car and head to Seattle! Congrats to Ben and Melissa! We love you!

I will always prefer the Wolf....

2009-11-19T09:48:00.004-07:00

Okay, okay...I get that everyone is in love with Edward! I was too, until I read NEW MOON!!! I am sorry ladies.....snuggling up to a big, warm wolf sounds a whole lot better than a cold, skinny vampire! Maybe I'm just a sucker for the under dog.....or just a sucker for men that turn into dogs! O-Mylanta! Bring on the wolves!

No one has ever accused Bella of being smart......now have they!?!?

Emily, AKA, Cold Cereal Expert!

2009-11-18T14:00:00.001-07:00

Jared and I have this continuing debate......Is boxed cereal better than bagged cereal? I say "YES" and Jared says "NO!" Now, don't get me wrong, I recognize that some cereal you purchase in a bag tastes just loverly.....but not HONEY SMACKS (my fav, btw)! Malt-O-Meal just can't do the SMACKS as well as Kelloggs! Sorry Jared! But he maintains if I took a taste test, I would not be able to tell the difference between the two cereals. Oh really???? So, the last time we were at the store, we bought a box and a bag. This morning was the taste test!

And the winner is.......EMILY! Whoot-Whoot! I CAN tell the difference between the bag and the box! At least with Honey Smacks! What do you think???? Are boxed cereals better tasting than the bagged??

Did you say FRIED TWINKIES??? Oh Yeah!

2009-11-18T09:17:00.006-07:00

Last night when I got home, Jared had a little twinkle in his eye...and I didn't quite know why. I soon found out when he smiled that cute smile of his as he held up a box of Twinkies! It was FRIED TWINKIE night! YUM-MY!!!!!

We even got Mackay to ascend from the basement to enjoy a little sweet stuff! Fried Twinkies are DELIGHTFUL!!!!!

Scarves....my new friends!

2009-11-12T10:28:00.005-07:00

If you ever read my blog you know I have this lofty goal not to buy work clothes for a year. (BTW-It is getting too hard not to buy ANYTHING! I have given in a couple of times already. I am not ready to give in but I may need to recommit to a more realistic goal.) The idea is to wear what I have and if I am not going to wear it...get rid of it! I seem to hang onto things longer than necessary, thinking I will wear it someday. So, I have been trying to make what I have look different. One thing I am trying to do is accessorize more! Accessories are fun and just give you a polished look (in my opinion)! ANYWAY....I have really enjoyed wearing scarves this fall. While I was blog stalking the other day I came across Affordable Scarves. Cute stuff! All under $20!!!! Check it out!

Thought of the Day.....Choice

2009-11-11T14:24:00.000-07:00

"We can let the circumstances of our lives harden us so that we become increasingly resentful and afraid, or we can let them soften us, and make us kinder.

We always have the choice."

- Tenzin Gyatso, The 14th Dalai Lama

How was your weekend?

2009-11-09T09:35:00.006-07:00

Jared and I have a goal to be ready for Christmas before the end of November. So, we have been making a list, checking it twice and shopping! With 8 little snooping eyes in the house, we thought it best if we wrapped what we could as soon as possible.....So, we spent Sunday night....

WRAPPING! Jared set up a table in the bedroom and I wrapped presents while he shopped on-line for a few things we just can't find in stores! It is kind of hard to see the pile of presents on the couch but I did a lot of wrapping! It is November 9th and we are about 90% ready for the holidays! YAY! While everyone else is fighting the traffic and crowds, Jared and I will be home, sipping hot cocoa and relaxing by the tree. Doesn't that sound lovely?

(Yes, those are antlers in the background. Jared's deer is still being mounted, so the antlers are sitting on the back of the couch for safe keeping. And YES, that is a 54 oz diet Pepsi on the table.....What can I say, I'm addicted!)

This time.....last year.....

2009-11-07T16:00:00.001-07:00

A year ago, I was sitting with Jared in a quiet little corner booth of the Melting Pot. We were snuggled together, loving every second just because we were together. And I had no idea what was about to hit me! I think my heart skipped a beat when Jared slipped that little black box into my hand and asked me to be his wife! I wanted to run out and marry him before he changed his mind! I am filled with so much emotion just thinking about that night! Jared has filled my life with so much love and happiness! And my days just keep getting happier!

The Road---now a movie!?!

2009-11-05T10:46:00.003-07:00

I read "The Road" a couple of years ago. I thought it was AWESOME! So, last night during the dismal end of the World Series (let's not even go there) I caught the end of the movie trailer and it is coming out on NOVEMBER 25, 2009! What? I had no idea! (I guess I need to watch more TV...?) Well, Jared is not getting out of taking me to this movie! I must see it! hmmmmm......Maybe on Thanksgiving.....we shall see!

Closet Crazy!

2009-11-04T08:47:00.003-07:00

OK.....So, my goal of no shopping for a year is not working out very well. Have I been shopping? No, not really. I bought a couple of things on "Girls Day" but that is pretty much it. (Although I do need to replace my black, patent loafers....they are a little too big) My problem is.....I sat and looked in my closet for about 30 minutes this morning trying to put together an outfit!!!! O-MY-LANTA! And I ended up wearing black pants and a blue printed blouse layered over a black, long sleeved tee with my loafers that are too big. BORING!! I have been blog stalking (literally) several fashion blogs and I still look at the stuff in my closet and I see NOTHING! How do these women (my stalking victims) do it??? They always look fresh, professional and really put together! I am going nuts!!! It can't be that hard! I don't think I look bad but sometimes I feel unfinished...and unsure of the outfits I put together. And if I take my cues from the people at work.....they aren't excited about some of my looks either. I don't know what to do!!! I want to throw everything out and start over! But Jared just won't go for that...the party pooper. Does anyone out there have any suggestions?!?!?!

(now that was a bunch of whining, wasn't it?)

Halloween 2009

2009-11-01T19:39:00.010-07:00

Another Halloween has come and gone...The candles in the jack-o-lanterns have now been blown out. The costumes of goblins, witches, and vampires have been put away in the basement, only to be brought out again next October. Bags of trick or treat candy will be replaced with trips to the dentist.

Now, if I could only wake up from the NIGHTMARE of the World Series! Come on Phillies! Hang in there boys!

Carving Pumpkins

2009-10-29T08:36:00.020-06:00

Last night the kids carved pumpkins...It was actually kind of fun. I am not the biggest fan of pumpkin carving but like Jared tells me...we do it for the kids.

Mals was at the Jr. High dance, so I cleaned out her pumpkin so she could carve as soon as she got home. What a lonely pumpkin....

Now our porch will be all spooky for Halloween!

And where am I during all the carving.....

GO PHILLIES!

My Baby Boy isn't a baby anymore...

2009-10-25T12:17:00.005-06:00

I can't believe it!!!! Mackay is 18!!! Part of me hoped this day would never come...but here it is! Happy Birthday Mack! (the video I made him is at the bottom of the blog)

Happy Birthday Mackay!

2009-10-25T09:36:00.000-06:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

It's a miracle....the Angels hang on!

2009-10-23T08:56:00.001-06:00

The ALCS is goin' to GAME 6! Good Luck Angels!

Manny....SEE YA...WOULDN'T WANNA BE YA!

2009-10-22T11:07:00.002-06:00

I have decided the only thing I dislike (hate is such a strong word) more than the Yankees is MANNY RAMIREZ!!!! It was such a joy to watch the Dodgers (Mostly Manny) go down in FLAMES!!!

Slink back to the hole you crawled out of Manny! I am so glad I don't have to watch your ugly face through the World Series! (too harsh??)

Great Job Phillies! I'm rooting for you! Win two in a row! Make those Yankees CRY!