My Life

Recipe blog

2012-01-09T21:02:00.000-07:00

I am by no means a great chef, nor do I claim to be. But I do enjoy cooking, and most of the time, I do a pretty good job. I've started a blog with some of my recipe's. The food I make is all simple, not time consuming, and appeals to teenage boys! Some recipes are my own creation, and some I've stolen from others. Credit will be given to the great minds behind my stolen recipes.

Check it out if you are looking for an idea for dinner!

The Lazy Cook

Happy New Year!!

2012-01-01T18:30:00.000-07:00

Out with the old and in with the new!! Today we welcome in another new year. 2012 brings with it a fresh, blank sheet, new opportunities, and the chance for a fresh start. I love that you can send out the old year, and with it the hard times and bad memories it holds. This year, I've decided not to set the standard resolutions. Instead, I'm going to keep striving to continue improving myself and making my life better. I am going to keep making the decisions that make me happy and that are for the best interest of myself and my family. My goal is to end 2012 happier, healthier, and more content than I left 2011.

Peace, love and joy to you all. May 2012 bring you everything you want and hope for!!

Merry Christmas!!

2011-12-26T21:22:00.000-07:00

I know I'm a day late with it, but I was having way, way too much fun yesterday watching my awesome family open their gifts, and then spending the day with them, to get on the computer! I hope you had a wonderful, joyous Christmas and were able to spend it with those you love the most. And above all, I hope you remembered the true meaning of Christmas.

Answers to Prayers

2011-12-18T23:03:00.000-07:00

So, I was sitting in church today, listening to some beautiful, amazing ladies sharing their incredible voices while they sang about the birth of Christ. As the music surrounded me, I let my mind wander. Earlier this month, I gave a talk in church about answers to prayers and personal revelation. It's funny that this was my topic, because I have always had a hard time feeling like my prayers are answered. I've spent a big part of the last few months feeling sorry for myself because I felt that a very big prayer of mine had gone unanswered. It struck me today how very, very wrong I've been. My prayer did not go unanswered. It simply was answered very differently than I had expected it to be answered. And I don't have words to express how very, very grateful I am that my prayer was answered in the way that it was!! I am so, so grateful to have a loving Heavenly Father who knows what is best for me and what I need, even when I am sure that it's something else. My life course has been changed because He knew so much better than I what I needed. And for that, all I can say is....

Whole Lotta Catching Up...

2011-12-04T21:47:00.000-07:00

...wow, I can't believe I haven't posted since July! Life has been busy, busy, busy. I know I'll forget something, but here goes a month by month update!

August

I got hired by two new companies for work. They've added quite a bit of work for me, and have very, very quickly become one of my main sources of work. I'm very, very grateful for having found them, and credit these two companies mostly with the fact that for the first time ever in my career, I'm as busy in December as I was over the summer!

Josh started his Senior year of high school. Crazy!!!

The Snake River Panthers, led by Josh and the other Senior captains, started their soccer season and their quest for a State title.

And.....taaadaaaaaa......I bought a new car!!! A much needed, long overdue new car. And I completely, totally, and completely LOVE it! It is a red Pontiac G6, and is beyond fun!

September

More soccer ensued!! I think I was at two soccer games, as a minimum, a week. Sometimes, Saturday games were added too. One of the great things about my job is that I was able to schedule my work travel so that I could attend as many games as possible.

The Soccer girls made fun shirts to support each of the boys on the boys team. They wore them to every soccer game. This is cute Jessie in her #5 (Josh) shirt.

October

Josh turned 18!!!!!!!!!

Snake River Panthers won Districts!!

And then, on to State, where they WON THE STATE TITLE!!!! WOOOHOOOO. For the first time ever, Snake River Boys Soccer are Idaho State 3A Soccer Champions.

The exhausted champion spent most of the drive home from Boise passed out!!

November

I got to attend the assembly at school where they honored the Soccer team. And boy...does Snake River know how to put on a show!!

And, of course, later in the month, we had the Soccer banquet, to pass out letters and celebrate the end of a very successful season.

I loved getting the team a cake to celebrate their win!

And of course.....Thanksgiving! Normally, we have friends over for Thanksgiving dinner, which is always so much fun. This year, they were able to go and be with some family members, so it was just the three of us. It was a wonderful day, and it was special to be with just the family and be able to reflect on the things we were grateful for this year. I don't spend enough time thinking about my blessings and all I've been given, and it was a good thing to be reminded that I'm very, very blessed and fortunate. This has been a year of many, many changes. Some endings, some new beginnings. It's been very nice to be able to look back on all those changes and endings and beginnings and truly be able to see that every change, every door closing, and every window opening, has been a blessing. They have all been to my benefit and helped me grow and become a better, stronger person.

December

HOW can it be December already?!?!?! It's crazy how fast the year has flown by! Our new ward has put me to work, and put me on the Event Committee for Relief Society. At my first committee meeting, I got put in charge of all the set up, decorations, and clean up of the ward Christmas dinner. EEEKKK! Put the new girl in charge of the hard stuff! But it was so much fun. It helped me meet so many people and make more new friends in the ward. Last night was the dinner, and it was delicious and went off perfectly! The kids in the ward acted out the Nativity Scene, and it was darling!

And now....the Christmas season is right on top of me! It's coming whether I'm ready or not, so I fully plan to spend the rest of the month being super busy working, enjoying my family and friends, and getting ready to have a peaceful, relaxing Christmas with my family!

Merry Christmas to you all, and I hope you are able to spend the season with those you love the most!!

Happy 4th of July!!!1

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

Wishing you all a Happy 4th of July! I am so proud to be an American and so proud of the freedoms that we enjoy as Americans. It's a privilege to have been born in this wonderful country and be an American citizen. Enjoy your celebrations today and remember to pay tribute to the freedoms and liberties we have as Americans.

Welcome Home James!!

2011-07-03T21:17:00.000-06:00

Wednesday was a big day in our family. James returned home from a successful year in New Mexico, completing his mission. I am so proud of him and of the decisions he's made and the work that he's put into turning his life in a direction that he's proud of and so that he's headed down the paths that he wants to be on. It's been a long road for him, but he's made good decisions. I'm excited for him to be home and ready to start on the new chapter of his life!

It was great to see several of his friends at the airport with us to meet him.

And then it was time to party! It was so much fun to have so many of his friend and family friends join us for a BBQ in our beautiful shady yard Wednesday evening. Yummy food, beautiful weather, and wonderful friends made for a very fun evening!

Thank you for the cake Nadine!! It was beautiful and so delicious!!!!

Ever had one?

2011-06-24T22:26:00.000-06:00

Ever had one of those days where it's just hard to be you? I seem to be slumping right in the middle of one of those today. It seems like everything I attempt to do turns out wrong, and every choice I make turns out to be the wrong one. I miss things the way they used to be in my life, and miss people who used to be in my life who no longer are. Sometimes I don't seem very capable of moving past mistakes I've made in the past....sometimes it seems like no matter how hard I try to put those mistakes in the past and keep them in the past, they have a way of rearing their heads back up--and the sadness has a way of creeping back in. It's days like this that I have to really, really remind myself of the things in my last post!

Learning and growth

2011-06-12T22:31:00.000-06:00

It's been an interesting month or so in my life. There's been a lot going on over the course of the last year that has culminated and come to a head over the course of the last month. I won't go into any details of what's been going on, partially because it's not me to put private details of my life out in public, and partially because this portion of my life is about moving forward and embracing the next chapter.

I've had a lot of moments of doubting myself....my abilities, my choices, my strength, and my abilities. there have been a lot of dark and sad moments. It's amazing how quickly that self doubt can sneak in, often without you even realizing it. Once it sneaks inside you, it takes over and takes control. It's impossible to feel good about yourself at all when you let those dark feelings inside.

I've been blessed with some experiences lately that have helped me to dispel those feelings. A very wise man reminded me that above all else, I needed to remember that my Heavenly Father loves me and believes in me. He is aware of everything in my life, both good and bad. He is aware of my heartaches and struggle. He is aware of my heart and my intentions. I simply need to have the strength and the courage to let go of my fear and my doubt and allow myself to see me as He sees me. I'm still working on that. But I have let go of the dark feelings and self doubt. I'm remembering to let the light and the happiness back into my life. And every day is happier.

I've learned a few things over the last while--important truths that make every day better.

**when life gets too hard to stand, kneel
**a smile makes just about anything more bearable
**when the chips are down, you can always count on your family to be there for you
**there comes a time in life when you realize who your true friends are. They're the ones who are there for you when you need them. They're the ones who are able to forgive you when you need it. They're the ones who know when you need them, even without knowing what's going on. They're the ones who treat you well.
**there comes that same time in life when you realize that you don't need the people who don't treat you well, and who don't make you happy.
**don't make someone a priority in your life when you are only an option in theirs.
**there comes a time when you have to let go of past mistakes and stop kicking yourself for the things you've done wrong in the past.
**the same time comes when you have to forgive yourself for hurting someone. Once a sincere apology has been made, if that person refuses to accept it, you have to let it go and move on. The sorrow over hurting someone you love and losing them in my life ate me up for too long. I had to let it go to be happy again. I will always miss him, but now just wish him all the happiness in the world.
**tomorrow will always come. Every day always provides us a second chance to make a new beginning. I choose what becomes of each day and what direction I will use that day to move my life in.

"The past is behind, learn from it. The future is ahead, prepare for it. The present is here, live it."
— Thomas S. Monson

"Our task is to become our best selves. One of God's greatest gifts to us is the joy of trying again, for no failure ever need be final."
— Thomas S. Monson

How'd he get so old?

2011-05-01T19:36:00.000-06:00

Josh & Brittny

Josh & Emmett

Such handsome boys

Emmett and Whitney

Josh creeping on Emmett

They looked so great!!!

Last night was Junior Prom. I'm not sure how Josh & Emmett went from being these cute little kids that were hanging around the house watching Pokemon and Avatar cartoons to being 17 year old Juniors in high school. Crazy!! And so fast. Proud of both of those boys--they are such good people & choose to have such good people in their lives. It was fun to see them all dressed up last night!!

Makes me happy!!!

2011-04-23T11:16:00.000-06:00

These two girls make me so happy!! Wendy, my wonderful niece is on the left and Cass, the girl that James was dating before he left on his mission, is on the right. Wendy and Cass go to college together and are roommates. The best part of that is that they're only an hour from me! Yippee!! I love having them so close and getting to see them all the time! They're here for Easter weekend & I am so, so excited to spend time with them!! Love, love, love these two girls!!!!!!!

Erin & Gabe

2011-04-22T09:25:00.000-06:00

11.5 years ago, a sweet tri baby boy was born here. There was always something special about this little guy. He was always beautiful, but even more, he was always a sweet, affectionate boy. Gabe lived here until he was almost a year old. I got to show him and finished his championship. He was a fun guy to show. After a specials home that did not work out and a Juniors home where the Junior stopped showing, Gabe went to Texas to spend a couple of months with my friend Erin. Long story short, Gabe wrapped his furry little body around the hearts of Erin and her husband Adam, and has lived with them for about 6 or 7 years. I could never have asked for a better family for Gabe.

Erin and Gabe have made a breeder's dreams come true. She has had an amazing show career with him, including winning a Best In Show with him. Gabers is the only dog we have ever bred to win this honor. I'll never forget the day that Erin called to tell us. We were in the car and I instantly started crying. Mom was speechless....and that never happens! It was a high point for me, as a breeder of a dog.

But even more importantly to me is that Gabe is loved and adored by his people. He is a member of Adam and Erin's family--and is completely convinced that he is the center of their world. He is more happy curled up in their laps than anywhere else in the world, and there's nothing more that I could ask for than to know that this wonderful dog I bred is loved and spoiled rotten!

At the national this year, Erin and Gabers won the 11+ veterans class. People ringside could not compliment him enough, and most thought he was about 5 years old. It was wonderful to see this team in action again--they were the most beautiful duo in the ring! Thank you Erin for helping to make this breeder's dreams come true.....but mostly, thank you for loving this sweet, goofy boy so much!!!

Oh, I love watching this dog move!!

what an amazing day!!

Gabers happy with his daddy

Erin & Gabe in the ring at Nationals 2011

Pretty sure the look on his face says it all!!

Snapshots of the trip to Tulsa...

2011-04-22T09:05:00.000-06:00

dingbat Liza realized about 2 hours into the Tulsa trip that the camera is at home! Sheesh....but, my phone does have a good camera, so I was still able to get some good photos. Not as many as I normally take, but I kept forgetting I had a camera on my phone!!

Is it spring?? The day we left, it looked like winter!!

Good thing Wyoming does have some cool scenery, because I really hate that state!!


Boring, boring, boring......


I have never seen a covered bridge over the interstate before!!!

Hahaha!! I don't know what the purpose of this 20 foot tall guy was, but it made me laugh every single time we pulled up to the show site.

Happy 125th Anniversary, CCA!! Gorgeous cake and it was soooooo delicious!!

Love this dog! This is Dash, who hopefully will be involved in an announcement later.....

Erin and Gabers......more on them later....

I absolutely LOVED this necklace!! Sadly, even in silver, which I prefer, it was out of my price range, so it is not around my neck.

Hard Rock Cafe!!!

Poor Hannah was not thrilled about being on the trip with us.


Gabers, however, is happy anywhere, as long as he has a bed.....

And of course.....my mom's quilt. She makes a quilt for the Collie Health Foundation to auction at their annual auction. For the 125th Anniversary of the Collie Club of America, she did a quilt that has the names and kennel names of hundreds of collie breeders embroidered into it. It took her 7 months to embroider and looked amazing. They auctioned it for $800. All together, mom's quilts have brought over $10,000 to the Collie Health Foundation.

It was an amazing trip. I haven't been to a National since 2006, so it had been 5 years since I had seen so many of my friends. It was wonderful to see them all again and spend time with them. I got to spend time with wonderful people, see beautiful dogs, and have a week and a half away from reality. It was perfect!

Kara's baby shower!

2011-03-27T20:34:00.000-06:00

My wonderful friend Kara is expecting her third baby next month---her first boy! Yesterday I got to spend a very enjoyable afternoon with my awesome friends at Kara's baby shower. Angie and Mica outdid themselves with wonderful food, Dessa brought an amazing chocolate covered strawberry bouquet, and Steph opened her beautiful home to us. Kara got some wonderful things to prepare for her new sweet baby boy, and we got to indulge in an afternoon of our favorite things....yummy food and incredible friends!!

yummy food!

Dessa's amazing chocolate covered strawberry bouquets!

Two little angels!

2011-03-27T19:58:00.000-06:00

I got to spend most of the weekend with two sweet little angels! My wonderful friend Jenni went out of town for a couple of days and trusted me with her sweet little twin girls. I love all of Jen's kids and had so much fun getting to stay with Lili and Koryn. I had a baby shower to go to yesterday afternoon, so had Josh come in and watch them for me. Josh has spent time with little kids at basketball games and things, but never spent any amount of time with kids. He was so, so nervous about being responsible for them. It was funny. In the first hour or so he was with them, I got about 8 texts, and 5-6 phone calls, with concern about various things, telling me what they were doing. Then the next text I got from him was, Take your time...I love these girls! I got back to Jenni's to find two very happy little girls and one very smitten teenage boy. Those two sweet girls have him wrapped totally around their little fingers, and he's wanting to know when he can babysit again. Love those sweet girls!! Thanks for trusting me with them for the weekend Jenni!!

Chills*

2011-03-15T20:15:00.000-06:00

Ok, so I am admittedly a big Glee fan. But I got chills when I heard this song for the first time tonight. It's beautiful, and puts so much of what I feel so much of the time into words.

Giving Thanks

2011-03-15T19:48:00.000-06:00

A very good friend reminded me yesterday of the value found in learning to live for my blessings. I think sometimes I spend far too much time wallowing in my trials and focusing on the bad things that come my way. I have so much good in my life though and don't take enough time to truly be grateful for all the many wonderful things in my life. So I thought such a good way to focus on my blessings would be to give thanks for them all.

**my amazing family**

**my awesome friends, who are always there for me**

**my health**

**a job I really enjoy**

**working for a company that is based on integrity**

**working with people I enjoy and respect**

**being able to learn from my mistakes**

**being able to choose the path my life takes**

**a working brain**

**no physical ailments**

**the gift of agency**

**a foundation of beliefs and faith**

**the knowledge of a loving Heavenly Father**

**my wonderful dogs who always seem to know what my mood is**

**the ability to work my feelings out through piano**

**music**

**the ability to find humor in life***

**laughter**

**ice cream**

Holy Deliciousness!!!!!

2011-03-12T09:07:00.000-07:00

Thank you Char for the recipe for this delicious soup!!!!

1 lb chicken breasts (3-4 fillets)
1 can cream of chicken soup
1/2 C diced onion
1 garlic clove
4 C chicken broth
1 C masa harina (flour)
3 C water
1 can enchilada sauce
16 oz. Velveeta Cheese
1 tsp salt, to taste
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp cumin

Add chicken breasts and one can of cream of chicken soup to a crock pot and bake for about 4-5 hours on high.
When the chicken is done baking...
Add onions and garlic to a pot and saute over medium heat for about 2 minutes, or until the onions begin to become translucent.
Add chicken broth to the pot.
Combine masa harina with 2 cups of water in a medium bowl and whisk until blended.
Add the masa mixture to the pot with the onions, garlic and broth.
Add remaining water, enchilada sauce, cheese and spices and bring mixture to a boil.
Shred the chicken into small, bite-size pieces and add it to the pot.
Reduce heat and simmer soup for 30-40 minutes or until thick.
Serve in cups or bowls and garnish with shredded cheese and crumpled tortilla chips.

(I made my own tortilla chips for this soup. Slice up several flour tortillas into thin strips and saute with a 1 tsp of olive oil and a pinch of salt until the tortillas strips are crispy).

Ahhhh.....renewal

2011-03-10T19:44:00.000-07:00

I've been battling a case of the blues and douldrums big time. And to the amazing people in my life who have been trying to pull me out of it, I love you so much! I found an unexpected way out of those blues today! I went into ShopKo innocently today and found a half price sale. I was far too weak to resist. But when I spent the rest of the day smiling every time I looked at my super cute new purse, I knew that this little peek of spring was exactly what I needed! And who can argue with $15?

I want

2011-03-09T19:45:00.000-07:00

right about now, I so want to be here. Tucked away on a tropical beach somewhere, under a palm tree, sipping drinks with umbrellas in them. I think right about now, I would even want it to be a solitary hammock. I'm just feeling out of sync and want to take a break from my life. And I'm just sick and tired of being tired all the time, which I have been lately. ***sigh****

Best skiing in the world!

2011-03-05T12:40:00.001-07:00

....story of my life!!! I was in Jackson, where they have some of THE best skiing in the world, and I'm working! I have GOT to spend more time in some of these fabulous places playing, not working! I so wanted to be skiing down those slopes and not working....not that my stupid ankle would have let me.....good thing I get snowmobiling instead!

What an amazing weekend!

2011-03-02T21:14:00.001-07:00

Last weekend was so completely and totally what I needed. For the first time in a long time, I was able to check out of life and every single stress I have. Two days at the cabin in Island Park, with 6 amazing friends, obscene amounts of delicious treats, movies, magazines, games, and so much talking. It was exactly what the doctor ordered. Angie, Mica, Sara, Dessa, Steph, and Kara, I love you ladies so much! Thank you for being great friends and thank you for a wonderful weekend!!! And remember....what happens at the cabin stays at the cabin ladies!


The cabin and look at all that snow! It was gorgeous!!

In Need....

2011-02-23T16:30:00.000-07:00

I am sorely in need of a break! Life has dumped a lot on my shoulders lately and the pressure is starting to get to me. I know I've gotten cranky and difficult. I need to get away from everyday life and take a break from everything on my shoulders.

And thankfully, that break is coming this weekend!!!! I will be joining some very good friends and amazing women for a weekend away in Island Park!

Ahhhh......a weekend of music, games, movies, sleeping in, napping, good food, even better company, and no stress....hello HEAVEN....you are only 2 days away!

2011-02-12T20:10:00.006-07:00

Life is nothing if not interesting. No matter how well you plan, or what you want for your life, sometimes things happen and life has it's own plans. I've been faced with some things lately that, while they've come about because of my own decisions, they are far from what I ever planned to have happen. Sometimes you just go along, thinking you're doing the best you can, and you don't realize until it's too late that your best isn't good enough. It's a hard realization. Because of that, I've had a lot of moments of questioning myself...my worth, my abilities, my value. I tend to internalize things a lot and not express what I'm feeling. I have some wonderful friends, but I don't tend to unload my problems on them. So this is something I've been dealing with alone. Finally this week, I opened up to two very special people, who both mean very much to me for different reasons. Neither of them were able to solve my problem....and in fact, I am not sure that there is a solution for my problem. But I wanted to thank these two dear, wonderful friends. You were there for me when I needed you. You gave me your ear, your shoulder, and your kind, caring, and non judgemental compassion. You helped me to believe in myself a little bit again, and I love you both very much.

In the process of the last few months, in addition to the bad choices I've made, I've hurt someone who had become incredibly important to me. The last thing I ever wanted to do was hurt Matthew, but I did. And I've learned that "I'm sorry" doesn't always make things better. Sometimes when you hurt someone you care for, you don't always get a second chance. And you don't realize the worth of what you had until you've lost it. I know it doesn't make things better, or change what happened, but I'm so, so sorry Matthew. You are an amazing person and I will alway regret damaging our relationship.

I'm a very musical person. I listen to music when I'm happy, when I'm sad, when I'm depressed, when I'm working, when I'm working out, when I'm driving....pretty much always. I've found a few songs that have literally got me through the last few weeks.

I heard this song for the very first time one day when I was having a very, very hard day. I was feeling very low.

I got this song from my friend Stacey. I just love it.

This song is an old friend and favorite. I cried the first time I ever heard this song. Since that night, it's been my go to song when I'm down. When Josh hears it playing on my iPod or laptop, he immediately comes to me and gives me a hug, and says, Just so you know, I love you. I think that means I'm predictable!

I just read something from someone called the FlyLady, who teaches women how to take control of their homes and lives. She teach people to learn to FLY....Finally Love Yourself. That's what I'm working on. I'm working on learning to forgive myself for my shortcomings and learning to realize that it's OK--that even when I fail, or let down the people who depend on me, I'm still OK. And with the amazing friends I'm blessed with, I must be doing something right!

2011-02-02T19:18:00.003-07:00

I stole this from my sister in law, because I loved it so much.

HANDBOOK 2011

Health:

1. Drink plenty of water.

2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar.

3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants..

4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy

5. Make time to pray.

6. Play more games

7. Read more books than you did in 2010 .

8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day

9. Sleep for 7 hours.

10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk daily. And while you walk, smile.

Personality:

11. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

12. Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.

13. Don't over do. Keep your limits.

14. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.

16. Dream more while you are awake

17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need..

18. Forget issues of the past.. Don't remind your partner with His/her mistakes of the past. That will ruin your present happiness.

19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.

20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.

21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

22. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.

23. Smile and laugh more.

24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree...

Society:

25. Call your family often.

26. Each day give something good to others.

27. Forgive everyone for everything.

28. Spend time w/ people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6.

29. Try to make at least three people smile each day.

30. What other people think of you is none of your business.

31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.

Life:

32. Do the right thing!

33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

34. GOD heals everything.

35. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

36. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

37. The best is yet to come.

38. When you awake alive in the morning, thank GOD for it.

39. Your Inner most is always happy. So, be happy.

One of my favorite meals to make....

2011-01-31T17:18:00.000-07:00

I love pasta! Of course, this you can probably tell by the size of my butt. There is nothing so yummy as spaghetti and sauce. So I love this amazingly delicious variation on plain old spaghetti. Tastes divine, super easy, and 100% made from scratch!

And of course, it is even better with home made french bread. Yummmm........

Yup. This is dinner tonight. I can't wait!

Finding Peace

2011-01-30T14:37:00.001-07:00

I have started to write a post about ten times now & each time, I don't seem to get through it without changing my mind and deleting. But I've had some things in my head and in my heart and want to put them down. 2010 was an unsettling year for me. It was a year that brought me great happines while at the same time, bringing me great sadness. It was a year where it seemed that my life spiraled out of control to an extent, and a year where I realized that was at a crossroads in my life. I had some wonderful people come into my life last year. Sadly, I also had some wonderful people who I cared very much for walk out of my life last year. That pain is still healing. As the new year started, and I took some time to reflect on last year, I realized that in many ways, I felt adrift and lost. I have many wonderful people in my life, but very few who I actually allow to be close to me. Very few who I actually let inside my walls. I've learned from experience that taking the chance to let people in often hurts. But I've also come to realize that until I learn to get past the hurt to let those who matter in, I'll never be truly happy. I have a quote on my desk that says "Faith is when you close your eyes and open your heart." I truly believe that. I just struggle in the execution.

The accident I wrote about below proved to be a turning point for me. I feel that we were given a miracle that night. I feel almost like I've been given a second chance. And that it's time for me to straighten up and figure out what I want in life. Take control of my life. Be proactive in making the things that I want happen. I was fortunate enough to be given a very strong foundation of beliefs growing up. It's time I go back to that foundation and truly lean on it. I've been starting to in the last couple of weeks and am remembering the internal peace that comes with that. I need that peace. I need the peace that comes from letting go of the people who cause me heartache, no matter how much I still care about them. I need the peace that comes from knowing who I am and where I'm going in my life. I need the peace that comes from knowing that I'm doing what I'm supposed to be doing. I guess that's my goal for the year. Peace.

My Room---finally!

2011-01-29T19:03:00.000-07:00

Redoing my room has been a long, ongoing process. It's not yet totally finished, but it's getting really, really close. I thought I had a before picture, but I can't find it anywhere. Thanks so much to my awesome nephew Josh, for all the help with painting and hanging!!

Of course, it would be far too simple for the whole room to just be finished. I still need new blinds, which will be the wide blinds. My window treatments will be beautiful gauzy curtains that I love & I already have the super cute rods for them.

I picked this mirror out a long time ago & got it for Christmas....I love it and it looks just as good as I thought it would over my dresser!!

I really love my cute desk and work area! It's fun to sit there and work and love my organizer board that Josh gave me for Christmas. It keeps me reminded of what I've got going on and when.

The only thing that will make my work area better is when I add this super cute chair!!!! I love it and am way excited to get it.

And this cute and very comfortable chair will be going in an empty corner of my room. Paired with just the right lamp, which I am willing to search for, it will make a perfect reading corner!

Oh, and the big thing that I still need to do in my room.....hopefully in the next 6 months or so, my carpet that I hate will be replaced with beautiful cherry wood flooring....and then will begin the long search for just the right area rugs!

I believe in miracles!!!

2011-01-19T22:10:00.001-07:00

Saturday night, I set out for a night on the town with 6 of my friends for a birthday celebration! My birthday had been the Thursday before, and Kara celebrated her 30th birthday on the Tuesday after. So we headed out for dinner and a movie. Spirits were high as we headed out in Kara's new van. As we were traveling down Ferry Butte Road headed towards Pocatello, we were t-boned by someone who ran their stop sign without even slowing down. It was estimated that she was going about 45 miles an hour when she plowed into us. We were extremely blessed and know that we not only had angels around us, but were the recipients of miracles that night. Kara's van had side curtain airbags, which protected all on the side that took the impact from greater injuries. Dessa's husband is a former police officer. He told us the next day that he'd never been to the scene of an accident that serious as a cop without at least one serious injury or fatality. We all walked away from the accident. Three of the girls were taken in the ambulance to the hospital. Two were released that night, and Kara, who is 7 months pregnant, was released after being kept for 8 hours for observation. The only fatality of the night was Kara's van. Thank heavens it was only something that can be replaced!!

I came away from that night with with even more respect for some amazing ladies than I already had. Kara, Mica, Angie, Stephanie, Dessa, and Sarah, I love you all so much and am thankful we're all still around!! If I had to go through that experience, I'm so glad I went through it with you guys!!

The side of the van that got hit

This is the missing door on the drivers side of the van that is stuck to the front of the car that hit us.

Pictures taken of the van the next day at the junkyard. It somehow looks so much worse in the daylight....

My birthday!!!

2011-01-19T21:54:00.002-07:00

Last week was my birthday. I guess I should start by saying that last year was probably the worst birthday I have ever had. I was so looking to make this year a good one!! I spent my actual birthday with my mom, who took me to a fantastic lunch, and then we went to the salon together for a girls day! She got a wonderful new haircut, and I let the amazing Daynna have her way with me! I got a cut and color, and I told her to do whatever she wanted. As always, Daynna did an amazing job, giving me a color I adore and a cut I love....and can actually make look ALMOST as good as she did! For my birthday dinner, we enjoyed some very yummy cake, and then ended the evening with a special someone who surprised me by showing up! I didn't think he'd be able to make it, so it was a double birthday surprise to get to see him. It was a really great day!! And then on Friday.....I got to go out to dinner with two of the most amazing women I know. How many people can say that over 10 years after graduating from high school, their high school best friends are still their best friends? I am one of the lucky ones who can say that! I have been fortunate to have Jenni and Amy in my life for over half of my life. They are amazing women and I love them both very much! Thank you ladies for so many years of great friendship and for a wonderful night Friday night!!

Musings on a new year

2011-01-19T21:44:00.000-07:00

Keeping up on my blog has been one of the things that I've really dropped the ball with the last few months. As I found the old year wrapping up and getting ready to start a new one, I'm not sure where 2010 went, or what I really accomplished in it. In many ways, it was both a good year and a bad year, but I'm learning that every single year is that way. I had some people come into my life that I will be forever grateful for having known. Some of them will stay in my life forever, and others have already passed through. Regardless of which they were, they have had a profound effect on my life and helped to change me in positive ways. I am thankful for the people that help me to shape my life and my choices.
I was fortunate enough to be brought up with very strong beliefs and standards, and parents who were amazing examples of they way they wanted me to live. In every way possible, my parents emulated their beliefs in their daily actions. I couldn't have asked for better examples. Sometimes, when you have something your whole life, I think it's sometimes easy to take it for granted. If you don't make the daily decisions needed, things can sometimes slip away from you. I came to a point in my life where I found that happening with me. I am so very grateful for one person coming into my life very briefly to serve as a living reminder to me of Christlike love and charity. With one action, he reminded me of things that I had let slip.
At the beginning of 2011, I'm so grateful for second chances, and for the opportunity that I have daily to choose the direction of my life. I can choose every single day what direction to take my life in and have control over the direction I take. That's an incredible blessing to me. And one I choose to take total advantage of in 2011!!!

Thanksgiving

2010-11-28T10:09:00.002-07:00

Oh my goodness! I didn't realize that it had been two months since I've posted anything. I made a resolve to enjoy life more and spend more time enjoying my family, enjoying my friends, enjoying my life and spend less time on the computer and away from them. That has been the best decision ever. So where have I been the last two months? Well, I'll update that when I have time. But right now, I want to recognize the holiday we celebrated last week. It was Thanksgiving. I love that day, because I know that I don't take enough time to show gratitude for my many, many blessings. I have been richly blessed in my life and I have been given many gifts and many blessings.

I am so grateful for the things I was taught by loving and righteous parents. In giving me the gift of the gospel, they have given me a gift that I will carry through my life and that I can wrap around me in every situation I ever find myself in. They have given me a knowledge and an understanding of things that I'm not sure I'd make it through life without. I am thankful for being sent to the parents and the family that I was. My parents are the best mom and dad a girl could ever ask for and I love them both very very much!!

I have some of the best friends in the world! It helps me get through each day knowing that I have a network of very close and trusted friends who I know will be there to help me in any way they can. I love you all!

I have been blessed with a lot of people who bring fullness and richness into my life. I'm grateful for the blessing of being able to find that rare person who makes my life more complete and more fulfilled. Sometimes, when things seem to be the lowest, and life the hardest, that's when you're given the best gift you could ever imagine...sometimes better than anything you could imagine!! I'm so grateful that even in my lowest point, my heart was open enough to allow you into it and allow you to help me heal, and to help me become a stronger woman. I love you.

Thanksgiving was a wonderful day here, shared with family, friends, and loved ones. It was so nice to spend the day with the people I love the most and to have an opportunity to reflect on how blessed I am.

The Iron Men of soccer

2010-09-20T20:14:00.000-06:00

So they've been dubbed by the local paper. Due to injuries and grades ineligibility, the Snake River soccer team has exactly 11 players. They have no subs. They all play the entire game, with no breaks. They're all beat up, but you can see their team spirit and determination grow with each game. They're having a great season & as one of their #1 fans, I'm super proud of them & can't wait for STATES!!!

Seriously! Could they BE any cuter????

2010-09-17T11:14:00.000-06:00

I seriously love these two girls. Desiree & Ashley are some of my favorite people to e around. It is completely impossible to be in a bad mood or sad when in their company. They're both as beautiful inside as they are outside and I just adore them! Thanks for yesterday girls! I so needed it!

Amazing Book

2010-09-12T21:53:00.001-06:00

I find myself deeply buried in yet another book. I can't put it down, which I realize is not really a big announcement for me when I'm buried in a book. It is amazing to me to read of Elizabeth Gilbert's search for herself and the discoveries that she made. I am able to see a lot of parallels between myself and Mrs. Gilbert. I admire the courage and strength it took her to make the really hard decisions in her life that she has. And I am awed by her commitment and willingness to truly look inside herself to discover exactly who she was. That's a scary thing. It's really hard to look that deeply within yourself, because the answers aren't always pretty or flattering. But from reading and sharing in her journey, I am finding that I'm a little more wiling than I was to start doing that digging and searching. Even when the answers aren't pretty, I want to get to a point where I want them and am able to accept them and change them where I need to, to fully become the person that I want to be.

I needed this

2010-09-05T21:43:00.000-06:00

Thanks to a wonderful friend, I woke up to this message this morning. I don't think he had any idea just how much I really needed to hear this today. I am trying really hard to find the good in the experiences I'm going through right now. I'm not having a whole lot of luck right now, but I'm trying. And I'm finding a way to get through each day. I'm so thankful for the amazing friends I have. I wouldn't be making it through each day without you. And my family. Josh always knows when I need a hug more than anything else. I love you all very much & thank you for your love and support.

GO JOSH!!

2010-09-02T12:50:00.002-06:00

So I have to brag a little bit. I got a text from Josh this morning that there was a good article in the local paper covering the soccer games yesterday & that there was a picture of him. So I, of course, went and bought a paper. And then bought 3 more. There is a huge color picture of Josh heading the article, and a great article detailing the game and Josh's contributions to the win. After a lost season last year due to injury, I know it's important to him to be a big part of the team this year and help them succeed, and it's great to see his hard work and effort rewarded!

And the article...

In the boys game the Panthers found themselves trailing at the half but a trio of second half goals by Cooper Peterson erased that deficit as the Panthers prevailed 5-4.
“It was a difficult day to play and I just tried to encourage the guys to have some fun, even though it wasn’t the best day to play soccer with all the wind.” Snake River head man Trevor Peterson said.
Peterson got the scoring started in the first half of play, drilling his first of four goals on the day just 8 minutes into the contest. The goal was assisted by Josh Dunkle, a refrain that was repeated on three occasions as Dunkle notched a trio of assists on the day.
North Fremont answered back with a pair of goals before Jonny Rodriguez tied the game at 2-2 on a corner kick by Dunkle. That tie was short lived as North Fremont took advantage of the wind, getting behind the Panther defense for a late goal and a 3-2 half time advantage.
“In the first way we played the wrong style of game for the wind conditions,” Coach Peterson said. “At the half we changed up and went to a more simple style of ball which helped us.”
Indeed that simple switch did wonders as Cooper Peterson knotted the game at 3-3 to begin the second half. North Fremont had one last gasp left in them, taking a 3-4 lead but another Peterson goal tied the game minutes later.
Peterson eventually headed in the game winner, out of the goal keepers hands when Dunkle played a long ball at the goal, sending the Panther side line into a frenzy.
“The team played hard and were able to come back in a game that was pretty even,” Coach Peterson said. “It was a fun game and a great learning experience for us.”
Snake River (3-1) travels to Teton today for a showdown with the Redskins at 5:30 P.M.

Expanding horizons

2010-09-02T12:22:00.001-06:00

I have always been a huge bookworm! I love to bury myself in a good book and put myself into another reality for a few hours. I'm a big fan of mysteries and spy books and thrillers. I love a good scare! Someone came into my life last year and became an important part of my life. He opened my eyes to a world of books I'd never really explored before....non fiction. While that individual has chosen to not be a part of my life anymore, one of the many things he's left with me is a new love of non fiction books. The ones that we read together have become some of my favorites, and I've added some other great ones. So, here are some non fiction books I highly, highly recommend!!

What a great book! Simple, basic, important life lessons taught with love and kindness by a truly great man.


Talk about a book that makes you think! Each section taught a better lesson than the one before it did.


A beautiful story of two very different men, in very different walks of life, and the way that their faith leads and guides them, and saved their lives. It reminded me of the importance of faith and having a belief system in my life.

Oh wow! Talk about a book that made me cry. Almost from start to finish. Randy Pausch was an amazing man, husband, and father who wanted to leave a legacy of learning and love for his children, who lost him far, far too soon due to cancer. The lessons he wanted to leave for them are beautifully shared in this book. It hit very close to home for me, because also was left the same type of legacy by a loving dad that I lost too soon. I've read this book three times now & cried every time!

Such a cute book! Brad Meltzer selected about 50 people from all walks of life who made a difference in the world. The heroes range from everyone from the Wright brothers, who made the book not because they discovered flight, but because they KNEW they were going to fail and continued to persevere anyway, to Rosa Parks, who made history for taking a stand for what was right.

My current read. Such a good book! And perfect for me at this point in my life, as I feel like I'm at a point where everything is changing for me. One of the things this book is helping me to realize is that even though some of the changes are ones that I would never make on my own & am not particularly embracing, they can still be changes that have a powerful and positive effect on my life. It's all in how I look at it and how I embrace it. My life is no more and no less than what I make of it. Change is always going to be a part of my life, so change is no more and no less than what I make of it.

Panther Soccer wins again!

2010-09-01T22:34:00.001-06:00

They brought their season record thus far to 3-1, with a great 5-4 win over North Freemont tonight! It was a great game and a win they earned by never giving up & fighting til the very end of the game. I really love watching these guys play...they're a great team! Go Panthers!!!

Junior Soccer

2010-08-28T22:18:00.000-06:00

Soccer season has started again! Today was actually game #3, but because of work, the first game I was able to go to. First game of the season was against South Fremont, and Snake River won 7-3. Second game was against Sugar Salem, always a hard opponent, and Snake River lost 4-1. Today was against Wendell. Great, great game, beautiful weather, and a chance to work on my tan. And our boys won 6-2!!!

Junior Year

2010-08-27T11:10:00.000-06:00

I'm a little slow. I can't believe that Josh is a Junior already! It makes me feel old! He is such a great kid. He's one of my favorite people on earth, and one of my favorite people to spend time with. He makes me happy and makes my world feel more complete. In addition to being one of the world's best nephews ever(I have the world's 9 best nephews), he is one of my best friends. I'm so proud of him and love him so much!!

I totally am...

2010-08-24T14:57:00.000-06:00

My aunt is an awesome cross stitcher. Years ago, she owned a store. When the store closed, she sent me a bunch of inventory....fabric, patterns, etc. I never did anything with it, because I am not at all a cross stitcher. Then I met Aunt D in Ogden for lunch one day a few years ago and she took me to a cross stitch store. It was so cool! The things that talented people can create with cross stitch is amazing. So I decided I wanted to pick it up. I learned how, but do not have the love for it that my aunt does. I've started several different projects, but to this date, have only ever finished one project. I lost it, but found it last week and am so excited, because it's perfect for me! And being as it may well be the only project I ever finish, I believe I am going to need to frame it and put it in a place of honor!!

I love you Dad

2010-08-18T11:46:00.008-06:00

There's not enough space in the world to be able to say all the things I have in my heart for my dad. He's my hero. He's the best person I have ever known. The world is missing it's brightest star because he's no longer with us. And our family is missing the center of our hearts. I know what made my dad the proudest was his family. And I know that the legacy that he has left behind him in my brothers, me, and his grandkids and now great grandkids, is what means the most to him. So here's to my dad's legacy, my amazing family.

All Because Two People Fell In Love

Happy birthday Jenni!

2010-08-17T11:57:00.003-06:00

Happy birthday to one of the most amazing people I know! Jenni & I have been friends since my first day of school in Idaho after my family moved. 17 years of friendship has brought us through ups and downs, highs and lows. I am so, so glad that Jenni and I have found each other again and been able to renew that friendship. It means so much to me to have her friendship, support, and love in my life. You're the best Jenni and I hope your birthday is an amazing day! I love you.

Good luck Tasha!!

2010-08-17T01:19:00.003-06:00

Tonight I went to a farewell, or better termed, a "see ya later" party for one of the most amazing people I know. I'm so excited for Tasha as she starts a new chapter of her life, going to Boise to go to graduate school. As she is in every other avenue of her life, she's going to be amazing and successful. But boy, I'm going to miss her!! I'm gonna miss great lunches where we laugh and giggle. I'm going to miss knowing that when I'm in a bad mood, or down, or sad, she'll be able to pull me out of it and make me stop taking myself so seriously. I can't wait for the next time Tasha comes home to visit & I get to hang out with her again! Good luck Tasha. You're going to be amazing in school and as you conquer Boise! I love you girl.

How do you?

2010-08-13T12:11:00.003-06:00

How do you heal when your heart has been broken into a billion pieces? The hardest thing for me is trusting myself and trusting my heart. I lead with my heart a lot of the time, but I still have a hard time trusting it and letting myself have what my heart wants. I've been remembering why lately. It hurts too much. So when your heart's been totally broken and the person you've offered it to doesn't want it, how do you pick up the broken pieces and start over again? How do you learn to trust yourself again?

Why shouldn't teenage boys be allowed to shop on their own??

2010-08-08T20:14:00.003-06:00

Because they come home with outfits like this....

And yes...it is polyester. The scary thing is that he also found a matching jacket for the pants. And he wears it proudly every single Sunday. And thinks he looks amazing. Scary, is it not?

Down comes the tree...

2010-08-06T19:29:00.003-06:00

After a very enjoyable day working and playing with Josh, we came to the start of a thunder storm with lots of wind. As I sat down to work and Josh headed off to do something, we heard a large crack and the power went out. Josh went out to investigate and discovered the source of the problem:

The Tree Came Down

Actually, only a branch of the tree, but it was enough to take down the power line from the transformer to the house, do some very minor shingle damage, and crush the riding lawn mower. I was sure we would be out of power for days, at least the weekend. After a call to Idaho Power, my new hero arrived in his white truck and fixed the line for us. So instead of being without power for several days, we were only without for a couple of hours, thank goodness!!! Of course, I documented all the drama of the day:

Stress Relievers

2010-08-01T22:21:00.010-06:00

Today in church, we had a great lesson about the importance of relaxation, de-stressing, and taking time for the things that make you happy. So it got me thinking about the things in my life that make me happy. And I don't think that I really take the time to appreciate the great things in my life and how happy they make me!! So what makes me happy? What makes me smile?

Playing in the water

Beautiful flowers, especially lilies!

Cute toes!

My Sox(most of the time anyway)

A really cute new purse!!

These faces:

Neighborhood Picnic

2010-08-01T21:58:00.004-06:00

Last night was one of those perfect summer evenings. My friend Dessa and her family moved into our little "neighborhood" the beginning of the month. We had a picnic and BBQ with our neighbors and friends last night. The weather was beautiful, the food was delicious, and the company was amazing. The men all gathered around the grill of course, as it seems men are naturally drawn to a grill. The food that everyone brought was amazing, and it was so great to just sit around under the trees and talk and laugh. It was a much needed night of relaxation and friends.

Look alikes

2010-07-20T21:46:00.003-06:00

So I'd never really thought about it before, but Josh pointed out to me today how much he and his cousin Tyler look alike. They're the same age...Ty born in April 1994 and Josh in October of the same year. And both will be Juniors. But I gotta say...they really do look alike....at least when they're running.

What can you get for $1??

2010-07-15T22:48:00.003-06:00

How about a smile every time I look down at my feet?

Seriously! Pink polka dot flip flops...how could I have resisted??

Jen, I need to get you a pair!

Look Gramma, we're growing!

2010-07-13T08:00:00.003-06:00

I noticed yesterday that those darling little babies I got from Jenni aren't really babies any more. They've gone from being kittens to being little cats. They're still pretty cute though. They're playful and fun. And they all have the loudest little motors I've ever heard!!

NO, we are NOT spoiled....

2010-07-10T13:22:00.006-06:00

....totally spoiled rotten. I don't even think this post needs any words....

Made For You

2010-07-10T12:20:00.002-06:00

My friend Dessa has started her own company, and makes these gorgeous fruit and vegetable arrangements. They are beautiful and so delicious! Dessa did her first wedding yesterday and I got to help her with some of the preparation. Not pictured, she also does gorgeous chocolate covered strawberries that she arranges as a bouquet of long stemmed roses. She can provide delicious, gorgeous centerpieces for any event you are planning!!

He's Legal, and other things

2010-07-10T11:30:00.005-06:00

The kid is finally a legal driver!! He passed his written test the second time around yesterday, and having already passed his driving test, Josh became a legal driver!

So what else have we been up to? Trying to pack as much into the summer fun as possible!

We've been playing at the lake.

I've been traveling for work & going to some of my favorite towns, seeing some very cool old buildings!

I got some gorgeous new lily plants for my garden!!

We've been going to wedding receptions, which is the summer norm! Such a fun way to hang out with friends and enjoy a great party! Of course, nothing beats a back yard bbq reception put on by the Wahlens!!

4th of July Weekend

2010-07-03T11:56:00.003-06:00

Happy 4th of July!! I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and has the opportunity to spend time with family, friends, and loved ones. I am looking forward to good food, good company, and awesome fireworks here!

I hope we remember the reason for this holiday. We celebrate the birth of our country this weekend. While our country isn't perfect and has it's problems, it is the greatest country on this Earth and I am thankful for my citizenship. I am thankful for the long history of patriotism that my family has. I am grateful for the brave men & women, including some of my ancestors, who had the courage to leave everything they knew and travel the oceans to this country. I am thankful for the incredibly brave men, including some of my ancestors, who fought for freedom and founded our country. My mom told me once that in our family, we have men who have served in the military and fought in every war since the Revolutionary War. I am proud of that heritage. I am thankful to the men and women who dedicate their lives to ensuring the continued freedom of our country. I am proud of my brother, who has dedicated over twenty years of his life to serving our country and has served in two wars. I am proud to be an American.

We kicked off our weekend with a 4th of July breakfast at the church. Other than it being so cold, it was a wonderful time to visit with friends and a delicious start to the day! Angie asked Josh and two of the other older Scouts to take responsibility for the flag raising. I was proud to watch Josh participate in this and see the respect that he has for our flag and what it represents.

James

2010-06-25T22:47:00.002-06:00

I don't even really know how to start this post. I haven't spent a lot of time talking about some of the trials that James has been going through in the last 18 months, mainly because they are personal and private and it's not my place. So I'm still not going to talk about them. Suffice it to say that he has had some trials in his life that included coming home from his mission and year early and working through some things.

From my perspective, the last 18 months have been long, frustrating, challenging, heartbreaking, and a cause for joy. It's so, so hard to watch someone that you love very much struggle and flounder and lose his way. And it's hard to know that as much as you're hurting for them, and cheering for them, and praying for them, there's nothing you can do to fix the situation. I have a hard time with that. I like to handle things and take care of things, and when a situation arises that I can't, it's hard for me.

But it has been a privilege to watch James mature. He has become so strong. He has grown into a man. He has come to understand what it is that is truly important in his life, and has set his priorities in a manner that is going to bring him long term happiness and fulfillment. He has goals and has plans in place to accomplish those goals. He would not be the person he is right now, making the decisions he is right now, if he hadn't been through the trials he's suffered in the last 18 months.

James made the decision to return to complete his mission. He made a two year commitment and decided that he needed to fulfill that full two years rather than just one. He left very, very early this morning to complete that mission in the Albuquerque, New Mexico mission. I am so very proud of him for making such an honorable decision. I am excited for him to serve his second year and return home next June. I love you James and very very proud of you!!

Summer basketball

2010-06-25T22:41:00.003-06:00

I'm slow these days. Josh is doing summer basketball again this year, and last week was the tournament at Snake River. The team is awesome this year, having won the first three tournaments!

Father's Day

2010-06-19T21:36:00.004-06:00

Tomorrow is Father's Day. A day that is both very hard for me and also a wonderful celebration of the man who made me what I am. I was blessed to be given the most amazing man in the world as my father. I never doubted how much my dad loved me. Growing up, he was my hero. He still is.

Dad always had time for me. He made a special point of he and I having "daddy/daughter dates" every single month. I knew that was a time for just me and daddy and that no matter what, we would always have those. I was a big priority in his life and I knew it. He believed in me. He had confidence and faith in me. He was proud of me. He made me want to live up to everything he saw in me. No one knew how to have fun more than Dad. But he also knew when to be serious. My friends all loved him. In fact, I don't think there was ever a kid born who didn't love him. And who he didn't love. Dad saw the best in everyone and taught me the importance of doing that.

Dad's been gone for almost 16 year now, and I miss him more every day. Sometimes I wish I could talk to him, take a problem to him, or share a concern with him. I wish he could tell me what I should do or how to fix a situation I find myself in. An amazing friend reminded me today that my dad is always with me and that I can always talk to him. I forget that sometimes. So as we get ready to celebrate Father's Day, please take the time to tell the amazing fathers and men in your life what they mean to you and how important they are to you. Cherish not just this day, but every day you are given to be with them.

Happy Father's Day Daddy. I love you so much. I miss you and I hope you're as proud of me as I am of you.

Our new residents

2010-06-16T08:35:00.003-06:00

My friend Jenni has 4 adorable little kittens born at her house a couple of months ago. She needed to find a home for them, and somehow, I volunteered. So we now have four fuzzy, cute little residents. With a little bit of luck, they'll grow up to be lean, mean, fuzzy mouse hunting machines!

So for Jen's sweet kids, who let their baby kitties leave and come to my house, here are some pics of them playing!

Birthdays, birthdays, birthdays!!!

2010-06-12T09:07:00.004-06:00

This last week has been a birthday week in my family! Two of my brothers and one of my nieces all celebrated birthdays last week. My brother Andy, who is the closest to me in age, celebrated his 40th birthday on the 8th. My niece Andrea, was born on her uncles birthday, hence her name. Andrea turn 17 on the 8th. And then on the 11th, my second oldest brother, John turned 46. Happy birthday you three! I love you and hope you all had fantastic days!

Andy

Andrea

John

Congratulations Desiree!!!!

2010-06-07T09:35:00.005-06:00

One of my favorite people in the world graduated from high school on Thursday night. I love Desiree and love her mom, Angie. It was fun to be at graduation to watch her and to be included in the family party after. I definitely see where both Angie and Desiree get their spunk!!

Desiree is headed off to college to study to be an x-ray tech. She's going to be amazing and I am so excited for her, but I will miss seeing that sweet face pop in around here all the time! You better come visit every time you're home Des!

Happy Memorial Day!

2010-05-31T09:12:00.002-06:00

I hope everyone has a wonderful Memorial Day. Enjoy the time with family and friends, doing something fun. I hope you all take a moment out of your day to remember the reason for this holiday, and it's not picnics, BBQ's, water skiing, or 4 wheeling. Take a moment to remember the men and women who gave their service and their lives to ensure that we have the freedoms we do today. The military has a special place in my heart. Both of my Grandfathers served, my dad served, my brother serves, and the love of my sweet nieces life serves. I am proud of and honored by the heritage of military service in my family.

Texas

2010-05-24T10:53:00.008-06:00

My mom had her 50th class reunion in San Antonio, Texas this year. She decided to drive down because she doesn't care for flying. As I have a really good friend who lives near Houston, when invited to go with her, I said yes. It was a long drive down and back, but a ton of fun while I was in Texas, and a good opportunity to spend some time with my mom, just visiting and chatting. And, of course, being me, I got plenty of sleep in the car! Traveling down, we went through Wyoming, part of Nebraska, part of Colorado, Kansas, a bit of Oklahoma, and then into Texas

Yes, that is snow! It was so, so cold in Wyoming!! There were huge patches of snow on the ground, and we actually outran a snowstorm that came in the second day of our trip. Yes, in May.

My mom had her 50th class reunion in San Antonio, Texas

The road was never ending! But the scenery was very pretty.

Unfortunately, I had to work on the trip. I was able to write reports in the car.

We got hit with a horrible rain and thunderstorm while we were driving through Texas. It only lasted about a half hour & the rainbow after was beautiful and made me think of a dear friend.

Once we got to Texas, I dropped mom in San Antonio, and then I went on to Houston to spend the weekend with my awesome friend, Erin! On Friday, we went to Galveston and went to what's called the Moody Gardens, which is very cool. They have a tropical rain forest with beautiful flowers and trees, very cool birds, and the cutest turtles. They also have an aquarium that was cool. And then we went to the beach, which I was so, so excited about! It was wonderful to get dig my toes in the sand and roll my capris up above my knees and let the water wash over my legs.

After a fabulous few days with Erin, I went back to San Antonio to pick up mom. We went on a riverboat ride, which was gorgeous, before starting home.

The river is on two levels, so there is a lock system, which was really cool! They steered us into this bay and the doors closed behind us. They they filled the bay with water and lifted up the boat so we were on the level with the other doors, which then opened and we continued on the upper level of the river. Coming back, they did the opposite, letting the water out of the bay so we could lower to the lower level.

Then started the long trip home. Coming home, we went through western Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah, before finally and wonderfully arriving home! It was a wonderful trip, with a lot of memories made, but as always, it was wonderful to be home.

MIA

2010-05-18T21:29:00.004-06:00

I know, I know I have been MIA!!! But for a very good reason. I have been traveling and on vacation, enjoying the great state of Texas!!

I will be home tomorrow afternoon & will catch up the blog on my trip, of course with the many, many pictures I have taken!!

Oh how I've missed you

2010-04-28T11:45:00.003-06:00

These are very popular at my house. Josh & his friends love my chocolate chip cookies & I usually have them around the house, because they're such an easy treat to have around for them. But they're much easier to make when I have a cookie scoop. Mine broke last year. Without the cookie scoop, I have to use spoons and usually end up with cookie dough all over my fingers. Finally last week, I caved & bought a new cookie scoop. I had forgotten how much easier it was to make cookies with the scoop & how much faster! And how pretty the cookies look when they're all the same size & look so pretty!! Now I remember that I can never go without it!!!

MORP

2010-04-27T09:09:00.004-06:00

I know I'm a little slow, but a couple of weeks ago, Josh had MORP. I miss being home for these dates! Thanks mom for the pic of Josh & his date, Mandy. Then I lifted pictures of the whole group off Facebook! Josh said that they had a really great time--a fun group to go out with & a great dance!

Happy Easter

2010-04-06T21:34:00.005-06:00

So I'm a little slow, but Sunday was Easter. It was Conference weekend, and it was a great family weekend. James came home for Easter and brought the lovely young lady that he is dating. It was fun to have James home and to spend some time getting to know Cass better. She's a sweet young lady who has been a really good influence on James. We decided to have a big Easter dinner this year and invited Angie's family & Hannah's family over for dinner. It was so fun to have the house full of family and friends on Easter. We had an Easter egg hunt for Angie's young kids. Not surprisingly, the teenagers got in on the hunt and I'm pretty sure that they got almost as many eggs as the young kids did! Dinner was delicious, mostly thanks to Angie's culinary skills and Hannah's amazing cake! It was a truly wonderful day spent with those I love the most!!

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I couldn't believe how long the table was! And the centerpieces were so fun to play with and make...they were the product of the trip to the Candy store on Friday that was so very much fun.

After dinner was time to play! Hide 'n seek, soccer, and basically just enjoying the last few minutes of sun and warmth to wrap up a really terrific day! I hope everyone was able to have a wonderful Easter and spend time with your family and loved ones.

Spring Break Fun

2010-04-03T13:40:00.009-06:00

Josh is on Spring Break right now. Yesterday, I took he & Emmett to Idaho Falls. I dropped them at James' apartment & they hung out with him while I did some actual work, in the form of three inspections. We all met up for lunch, and then the boys went to see Percy Jackson & The Lightening Thief. Not having any interest at all in that movie, I took myself to see The Last Song. I have to say, I loved it. It is a movie I will be watching again & probably buying on DVD. It was a sweet love story, a father/daughter story that I found extremely personally touching, and really, could he be any more adorable????

Emmett's a goof

So after the movie, we went to this candy story called Sarah's Candy Cottage. The store is entirely devoted to candy. I hadn't been there in awhile & I knew that neither Josh or Emmett had ever been there. We walked in the door and there were shelves of candy EVERYWHERE. Josh & Emm's eyes got wide and they got these huge smiles on their faces! They were so cute picking out their candy choices and charming samples of just about everything from the lady who was helping us. The size of these lollipops made me laugh!

And since I had some grocery shopping to do, we ended our day at Wal-Mart. I swear, walking through the door turns Josh & Emm 5 again. But they make me laugh so hard. They head straight to the toy department. After playing a little bit of baseball with the bouncy balls, they found a couple of little kids who were willing to play with them. I think it's fair to say that Josh & Emm lost & the little kids won.

This was the two of them in the car on the way home. How do they always end up asleep at the end of a trip?

Changing your life

2010-03-24T18:48:00.004-06:00

I've come to the conclusion that sometimes, there are people who are supposed to stay in your heart forever. The heart heals and moves past any pain, but there are sometimes people who stay in the heart, no matter what. I don't believe that you should try to force someone out of your heart. Occasionally, you meet someone who finds a place in your life and your heart and changes you forever. When you meet someone who has the power to make those changes in your life, let them in. Let them make you a better person and make you better for having met them and having had them in your life. Cherish them, cherish the changes they make in your life and your heart, and keep them close to your heart for always.

"Life is too short to wake up with regrets. So love the people who treat you right. Forget about the ones who don't. Believe everything happens for a reason. If you get a second chance, grab it with both hands. If it changes your life, let it. Nobody said life would be easy, they just said it would be worth it. Friends are like balloons: once you let them go, you can't get them back. So I'm gonna tie you to my heart so I never lose you."

Thank you John & Denise!

2010-03-23T20:33:00.003-06:00

If you were to ask Josh or any of his friends what the first thing they think of when they think of our house, I'm pretty sure there would be two words. Pizza and cookies! Well, Emmett would add Twizzlers, but that's a whole different story. Josh's crew loves it when we have pizza parties here. The pizzas are always home made with my secret recipe that as of this weekend, has been passed down through the family in the form of me giving it to James. And they know that the cookie jar is always stocked. In fact, they generally walk in the house, say "HI" and head to the cookie jar!

Two years ago for Christmas, I got what I thought at the time was a funny Christmas gift from my brother John & sister in law Denise. It was this little guy. He's kinda funny looking, awesome because he's got the Sox logo on, of course. Little did I know that this guy would provide so much happiness and joy to Josh & his friends. So thanks John & Denise, for a gift that makes the entire house happy every weekend!

Stake Prom

2010-03-21T14:03:00.004-06:00

Last night was the Stake Prom. This is something that was started about 5 years ago for the kids in our stake. James went a couple of times & always had fun. This is the first year Josh was old enough to go. He took a friend, Desiree, and they doubled with one of his oldest friends, Jaiden and his date, Ariel. The kids all looked so good last night & they had a great time!! I remember teaching Josh & Jaiden in Primary when Josh first moved here. They were 7 years old and became very fast friends. They sort of raised trouble in my Primary class & have been close friends and causing trouble together ever since! I can't believe how old they are!!!

What a sweet face...

2010-03-20T13:21:00.006-06:00

...how could you ever get mad at this cute, sweet face? That cute, crooked smile, those dimples. Maybe it's because I live with him that those dimples and that cute crooked smile do nothing for me!! Kidding. I love that sweet face. Josh & I get along really, really well about 98% of the time. But boy oh boy was yesterday one of the 2%!!! Yesterday I would have been more than willing to give that boy away to any takers. Today's back to a good day though and even when he's a big ol' pain in the butt, I do love that guy!!

Sugaring Season

2010-03-11T16:29:00.002-07:00

One of the things that really makes me miss New England is sugaring season. Tapping the maples for maple syrup. My brother has maple trees and they always tap them & make their own syrups. I can't wait for the package to arrive in the mail with the syrup!

The Sugar Shack

Andrea cutting wood & Michael being a typical little brother!

Andrea, Wendy, and Diego

Wendy

My gorgeous nieces, handsome nephew, and my brother and sister in law at their wedding reception.

Happy birthday Angie!!

2010-03-02T13:28:00.003-07:00

Ok, so her birthday was actually last Wednesday, but we celebrated with her on Sunday. I did make her cute little cakes for her & all her kids on Wednesday & brought the birthday cake on Sunday. Then on Sunday, Angie's gorgeous, wonderful daughter Desiree invited us over to share a birthday meal that she made for her mom with their family. Of course, Emmett was part of the package for us. It was a very fun afternoon spent with very good friends, filled with lots of laughs and warm friendship and the vow to do it more often!

Desiree and Angie cooked together, we ate delicious food, Josh & Emmett did dishes, we ate yummy cake & ice cream, and talked and laughed. Thanks to some of my favorite people for a wonderful afternoon. Relaxing and having fun was exactly what I needed!

Little bit of this, little bit of that, and the family artist

2010-02-27T15:46:00.004-07:00

Life has been insanely busy the last few weeks with work. I've been traveling at least two days each week and often more, and been putting in a lot of late nights and weekend time writing reports. In fact, I should be writing a report right now! I've been feeling a bit overwhelmed with everything I've got going on & not sure how to handle it all and get it all done well and attempt to stay on top of things. And then I heard about a friend who is waiting to hear if her job is being cut and if she'll be let go from her company. And that made me stop feeling sorry for myself for being so busy. I am so grateful for a good, steady job that I really enjoy. I'm grateful for the chance I have to work from home and be here for my family and be involved in Josh's life and activities to the extent that I'm able to be. I'm grateful to be associated with companies in my job that are strong and solid. They have ethics and integrity and are like families. I'm grateful for their confidence and belief in me.

The one benefit of traveling is that I get to see some pretty things and places. And when I go to Sun Valley or Jackson, I see some ski hills that I would much rather be skiing down than working!

Josh is taking Ceramics at school this trimester. I have to admit that I have harassed him a bit about it. But he's really good. I picked up a couple of his pieces for him and brought them home last week. I was really impressed at how good they are. He's just a fount of hidden talents! The tall red piece is going to be in the local art show at the library sometime next month. I'm really looking forward to going in to see it on display!!

Simplot Games

2010-02-20T11:57:00.004-07:00

Every year, there is a huge high school indoor track and field competition in Pocatello. The Simplot Games is the premiere high school event in the country. Josh decided to run this year and did the 1600 meter(also known as the 1 mile). There were 19 kids from Snake River running. Two of them were running the mile--Josh & Tylo. As Josh found out more information about Simplot, he realized that this was really a big deal. The Simplot Games record for the mile is 4:10, which is crazy fast. He decided he wanted to use the experience just to set a baseline to start the Track season with. Probably wise, since Josh talks about running a whole lot more than he actually does run. He ran on Thursday night and set a starting point of 5:38 for the track season & has set a goal to finish the season at 5:00 flat. He did a great job & I was proud of him! Track starts next week...I can already see that those first track meets promise to be as cold as they were last year!!

The best friends

2010-02-17T12:04:00.009-07:00

I have the best friends in the world! The last month or so has been sort of hard for me for various reasons. I have discovered in that time that I am probably the luckiest girl in the world, because I have the very best friends ever! Whenever I'm having a bad day or going through something rough, they take time out of their lives, which I know are busy and full, to make sure that I'm ok and to let me vent & to commiserate with me. They take my side but aren't afraid to give me the kick in the butt I so often need. The other day, it meant so much to me to pull a card from my dear friend Jen out of the mail and know that I mattered enough for her to take the time from her 5 kids to send me those sweet words. My parents always taught me the importance growing up of good friends, so I realize how fortunate I am to have such amazing friends & count myself double lucky that two of them have been friends for about half my life!

Thanks you guys! I love you all so much & hope to be as good a friend to you as you are to me.

Happy Valentines Day!

2010-02-14T17:12:00.003-07:00

Our Valentine's Day started with heart shaped pink pancakes for Josh & Emmett. We had a nice dinner that my mom made for us, and then finished the meal off with a yummy, double layer, heart shaped red velvet cake for dessert.

I hope everyone was able to spend their day with those that they love the most and if you have a special Valentine, that you were able to be with that person on this day as well.

L.O.V.E the Olympics!!!

2010-02-13T21:21:00.002-07:00

I so, so, so love the Olympics!! I seriously am a huge Olympics junkie. I watch them every night, I'm checking out the website as often as I can. I love them. The winter Olympics are my favorite. Ice skating, snowboarding, skiing, moguls, aerials, I just love it all! So for the next two weeks, I'll be attentively watching the Olypics & cheering for Team USA!

Winter Fest

2010-02-02T20:14:00.004-07:00

Josh got his Winter Fest pictures back yesterday & they were so cute! Of course, that's because these four kids are so danged cute!

The highlight of a very bad night last night was sweet Hannah and her wonderful mother Peggy visiting us last night & bringing cookies. They knew we were having a tough night and wanted us to know that they were thinking about us and came and shared their friendship and love with us. Thanks Hannah and Peggy! We love you guys so much!!

Ch. Pembroke New Way to Fly February 17, 2002-February 1, 2010

2010-02-01T20:55:00.003-07:00

Ever had a day that you wished you could just skip over and not have? Today was one of those for me. The entire day was pretty rotten. I did have the highlight of visiting briefly with Jen & her kids. But the day got exceedingly worse on the way home, when I got a call from Josh that there was something wrong with Garth. Indeed, when I got home, Garth was in a bad, bad way, and I was afraid that we were going to lose him. I called the vet, who happens to be a very good friend of mine from high school. After talking to Tony and giving him the symptoms an telling him how Garth looked, we determined that I would bring him in, but that most likely there was nothing we could do for him. We did end up losing this sweet, sweet boy tonight, before his time. Tony believes that he had a fast moving cancer and that he'd gone downhill so quickly he wouldn't survive treatment.

Garth was only not quite 8 years old. I absolutely adored this boy. He was so sweet and so kind. He loved to give hugs and kisses and always wanted to please me. He always, always made me happy and always made me smile. I will greatly miss his hugs and kisses--Garth was not a licker, but would touch his nose to your cheek to give you a kiss. Rest in peace sweet boy. We love you and we will miss you.

All is Right in my World Again....

2010-01-17T20:40:00.003-07:00

This was the scene around my breakfast table this morning. After 2 weeks of restriction for both Josh & Emmett after a New Years Eve incident, Emmett was back at our house for the weekend. My two favorite teenage boys are back, eating all my food and making me laugh almost non stop! And since there's no school tomorrow, I get them for another day.

Winter Fest & Birthday lunch

2010-01-17T17:58:00.009-07:00

Yesterday was a good day. It started off with lunch with two of my best friends. I have known Jenni & Amy half my life, since my parents moved me to Idaho in 8th grade. I met Jenni my first day at school after we moved here & we because immediate friends. One of the biggest regrets in my life is that Jenni and I drifted apart after high school and lost each other for a number of years. And one of the biggest blessings in my life in the last few years is that Jenni and I have been able to find each other again and settle back into our close friendship. So the three of us went to Bajio's for lunch. If you've never been there, you should--it's a really good Mexican grill. Lunch was good, but the company was awesome! It was fun to be able to sit and relax and have some girl time! Thanks guys--I love you!!

Last night was the Winter Fest dance at Snake River. Josh took a good friend of his, Hannah, and they doubled with Josh's best friend Emmett and his date, Whitney. They went bowling & then came here for diner & to Emmett's house for dessert. They were such a fun group--they laughed the entire time they were here.

They enjoyed dinner & then decided to play "the spoon game" which isn't really so much a game as it is a chance to pick on the one who doesn't know what the joke is. Emmett was the "dummy" last night. Once he realized he was being conned & whacked on the head by Josh, he decided to try to get even.

Love him!!!

2010-01-15T11:04:00.003-07:00

Josh always makes me laugh! I love that boy. He always seems to be able to sense my mood & know what I need sometimes even before I do. Yesterday, he sent me a text that said. You've seemed sad. I just want you to know I love you. He's such a good guy.

Sunday, he made me laugh so hard. He was wearing old sweats and a pair of nasty old work boots with a wife beater undershirt. I told him to get dressed for dinner before he came to the table. So my goofy guy comes out "dressed for dinner" Yep, this is really what he wore!

My Birthday

2010-01-13T17:07:00.003-07:00

I started off my birthday in Boise, and worked my way east and home. I stopped at the overlook of the canyon in Twin Falls, which I never take time to do and had to take a picture--it's so beautiful.

Today may go down in the record books as one of my worst birthdays. I hurt someone I care a lot about very much. I damaged a relationship that means a lot to me and don't know how to fix it. I received very undeserved forgiveness, but don't know how to go about forgiving myself for what I did and repairing the relationship.

I'm glad the day is almost over--this is a birthday I'll be glad to put behind me.

Love this hotel

2010-01-12T17:56:00.003-07:00

I find myself in Boise tonight for work. I travel over here about once every 6 weeks. Boise's one of my favorite places to work--it's a great city, I have a terrific friend who lives here, and I get to do some of my favorite work here. When I'm here, I always stay at the same hotel. the Inn America, which I love! The staff here is so good. When I walk in the lobby, they know who I am and have my paperwork ready and prepared for me. They know me by name and know what my room preferences are. When I asked the manager this morning for directions to the restaurant I was meeting a friend at for lunch, she remembered this evening when I got back & asked me how it was. In addition to terrific service, the price can't be beat! There are very few hotels where you get a nice, newly remodeled room, a good location, and awesome service for $45.00. I would recommend this hotel to anyone needing to stay in the Boise area.

My brand newly remodeled room--I am the first guest to be in this new room!

I met a terrific old friend for lunch today. She took me to a restaurant called Tuscano's, which is a Brazilian grill. It was amazing, fantastic, delicious, wonderful! I absolutely loved it. But the best part was spending time with a good friend that I haven't seen as much as I should have over the years!

One of my inspections today was up in the foothills outside the city. The view from up there was absolutely beautiful. I can't imagine ever tiring of having this view overlooking the entire city and valley.

Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad!!!

2010-01-05T21:50:00.010-07:00

Today is my mom and dad's anniversary...#48. My dad has been gone 15 years now, but as I truly believe that theirs is an eternal love and marriage, I still celebrate today as their anniversary and know that mom does as well.

My mom and dad were an amazing example to me of how a marriage should be. I knew every single day of my life that they loved each other. More than that, they liked and respected each other. I always know that the most important things to both my mom and dad were each other and us kids. From my parents, I learned that marriage is a special bond to be shared with your best friend and the love of your life. My mom set the bar super, super high for me by marrying the best man I have ever known.

I love you mom & dad! And for all of us, the 5 kids, 21 grandkids, and 2 great grandchildren who have so far come from your marriage, I thank you for falling in love and for being the people that you are!!!

What did we do during Christmas Vacation?

2010-01-05T10:17:00.006-07:00

We played! We relaxed, we slept in, we had fun, we hung out with friends. We enjoyed the company of good neighbors and shared good food. We went to wedding receptions and parties. We played in the snow. It was a fun couple of weeks. It feels like now we're back to the real world of school for Josh & work for Liza. Ahh, thank goodness we have vacations & holidays to break up real life!!

New Year's Resolutions

2009-12-31T18:58:00.006-07:00

So as I was getting ready to go out and ring in the New Year, I was thinking about New Year's Resolutions. I am terrible at making them & even worse about keeping them! But I want things to be different and to make some changes in 2010, so I thought that if I wrote them down--especially where others can read them, maybe I'd be better about keeping them!!

Resolutions for 2010
1. Joshua 1:9 I read this scripture in the Bible a couple of weeks ago and it has stayed with me. Be strong and of good courage. Be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed. I want this to be my theme for the year. I want to live this scripture every day of my life.

2. I want to keep finding my peace with myself. A very good friend helped me to find my self worth and self image this year. He gave me the courage to believe in myself and to make some changes in my life. I am a stronger person because of his influence in my life. I want to continue to become stronger and increase my self confidence and self belief.

3. I want to be a better daughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, and friend. I am so over being so worried about myself & my own problems. This year is dedicated to not being so self absorbed and giving more of myself to the people in my world.

2009 was an amazing year for me. It was filled with some of the highest points of my life, and some of the most painful lows. It has been a year that I will never forget, because it has been a year in which my life has been changed in so many ways. I welcome the fresh start and the new beginning that 2010 brings with it tonight and hope that it brings to all of my friends and family a year of happiness, peace, love, and everything that you are looking for. Be happy and fulfilled. I love you all.

Fun Day

2009-12-31T12:22:00.007-07:00

On Monday I had to go to Star Valley, WY for work. Because it's Christmas break, I got to take two of my favorite people ever with me--Josh & Emmett! This is a trip I've made a lot of times, but this for sure was my funnest trip ever. Emmett & Josh are such good kids & they make me laugh just about non-stop! I'm so glad that they were able to come with me and keep me entertained!