Happy Holidays!

http://ourldsfamily.com/docs/ChristmasGreeting.html

Happy Birthday to Me

Earlier this week we celebrated my 28th birthday. I forget how old I'm getting until I think about my little sister turning 25 next year and then I remember, I'm not 21 anymore. So - for my birthday celebration we went to dinner at the most amazing Greek restaurant: The Parthenon. Little did we know they would have such an exciting performance of belly dancers for our evening entertainment.

The best part was when one of the dancers came right up to C giving him a 'special' dance. Then C got up and proceeded to belly dance with the woman like a real pro. Our friends took pictures and as soon as I get them, they will be posted for proof. I know my law school readers and fans, he will deny this activity ever took place, but the pictures will prove it.

For Christmas...

The bad thing about having a birthday and Christmas close together is that I have to come up with gift ideas for both occasions. I ordered some boots for my birthday online a few months ago and they are sitting underneath my bed anxiously awaiting December 9th when I can finally pull them out to wear. Now, all I have to do is think of what to ask for from C for Christmas. So... I am asking you for ideas. I don't need clothes, perfume, jewelry, a handbag or any of the other more generic gifts. I don't want a vacuum or kitchen stuff. So - what should I ask for?

Also, as many of you know, our little Sara is going to be 2 months old on Christmas Eve. Another small, yet equally important dilemma, what do you buy a 2 month old for Christmas? She doesn't need clothes or toys. I guess we could always buy her nothing since she won't know the difference, but that's no fun. Any ideas on what to get Sara for Christmas?

Utah vs BYU

Last weekend was the big Utah vs BYU game. I made a little onsie for Sara so she could watch the game in style. But don't worry, I didn't forget my true loyalty to the Cougars. I hid a Y on the bum.

Here are some pictures of the big day:

All things Sara

So I needed to post a few new pictures of Sara and thought I would also use this opportunity to tell you about the crazy things C has been doing in his sleep lately. He's always been kind of a crazy sleeper, but lately - it's been especially interesting.

For example, the other night I woke up to him sorting the laundry in our bedroom. The next day, he didn't remember a thing about it. Also, he has been rocking his pillow to sleep in the middle of the night. Strange, yes, I know. But the best was Thursday night. He often says random things in his sleep and I just ignore them, but this was too good. He said to me, "When she's big enough (talking about Sara) we need to enroll her in Jedi training camp." No, I am not making this up. When I asked him about it in the morning he said, "I don't even like Star Wars". But apparently, our kid needs Jedi training camp.

Here are a few recent pictures of our little treasure girl:

She's here!!

She has officially arrived and we couldn't be happier.

Here are the stats:

Born: October 24, 2008 at 8:00pm
Height: 19.5 inches
Weight: 6.4lbs (teeny tiny)
Hair: Dark Blonde... super short in front, longer in back
Hours in Labor: 5:35am (water broke) to 8:00pm (actual time of delivery) = 14hrs 25mins

Congrats Celeste for having the most accurate estimates. I'll make you a picture in Paint and send it over.

I am feeling sore and really tired, but overall - doing great.

Oh, by the way, her name is: Sara Elizabeth

If you would like all the details of the Labor/Delivery, let me know. I will spare everyone else. Although I have to say, it's the part I was the most nervous about and it went extremely well. And we had a great prize at the end of it all.

Going home from the hospital

To our little girl,

I am copying the great idea of my friend, PMB, by writing a letter to my soon to be born baby girl on my blog. Someday, I hope she can look at this and see just what I want for her. (No, she doesn't have a name yet and even if she did, we wouldn't tell you)

Dear little girl,

You will be coming to live your daddy and I very soon. We are so excited to meet you. I would love for you to have blonde hair and blue eyes like me, but even if you don't - that's okay because you will be ours. You will have long toes and long fingers like me and your daddy. Maybe someday you'll learn to play the piano, or tennis, or golf. I bet you'll be a little bit serious like your mom and a little bit silly like your dad. And just maybe you'll want to be a mom when you grow up and have kids of your own someday. I wonder if you'll like music or sports or a little bit of both. I wonder if you'll want to be a businesswoman or a teacher or an artist. (Probably not an artist if you really do take after your dad and I) If you like to watch TV, I hope you always pick good things to watch. Maybe you'll love Mexican food like we do and we can have tacos for dinner. And if you decide to drink soda, it's okay because we can drink our Dr. Pepper's together and sit on the couch and talk about our day.

My favorite color is red, so I hope you like red too. But not in the Utah Utes or the Nebraska Cornhuskers sort of way. I just like red because it's strong and bold and maybe that's why you'll like it too. When you are born, you'll have 4 cousins. They are all really fun and I hope that you can be great friends. They will be girls you can look up to and share your secrets with. (But you have to share some of your secrets with me) Maybe someday you'll go to college and go on a mission and fall in love with someone.

And probably someday you'll fall and scrape your knee or lose your favorite doll in the empty lot next door. And maybe be sick, or sad, or hurt by something someone did or said. I wonder if you will ever have a broken heart or just need someone to talk to and I wonder where you will turn.

When all the good and the bad things happen in your life and no matter what you choose to be, I hope you will always know we love you. And no matter what you look like and no matter who hurts you along the way, I hope you know we will always be here for you. And no matter how many friends you have or mistakes you make, I hope you know you can always trust us. And I hope you know that on your best days and even on your worst days, God knows and understands how you feel. And more than anything in all the world, He wants you to be happy - just like your dad and me.

I won't be a perfect mom, and C won't be a perfect dad. But - we will certainly try. Please forgive us when we make mistakes or when we forget something important. Please be patient with us when we don't always know what to do. Please ignore me when I say something bad about someone else or when your dad says a swear word. Know that we were just like you once before and that even when we're not very cool and may be embarrassing sometimes, that we are doing our best to be a good mom and dad. And when I sing "Happy Birthday" to you over the intercom at Wal-Mart or have a cute boy deliver balloons to you in front of the whole school on your birthday, remember that my mom did those things to me one day. And even though I was mad at her for it then, I love her for it now. And when your dad locks his keys in the car for the 50th time or asks you where something is when it's right in his face - just remember those are the things you'll miss when he's gone.

I can't wait to meet you, little girl. We love you and we know that you will be everything we hope you will be because you'll be ours.

37 Weeks and counting...

Sunken Gardens

We went to the Sunken Gardens a few weekends ago. It is beautiful this time of year.

For the fans...

I received a request to post something new and exciting that would promise to entertain. When I inquired about topic suggestions, this is what I got:

5 tips for finding the Mormon man of your dreams
A how-to guide for the new baby to follow in about 18-20 years.

I have decided to do both, but only one at a time. So first...

5 Tips for Finding the Mormon Man of your Dreams:

1) Decide what you want. About 5 years ago, I wrote down a list of characteristics I wanted in a future husband. I called it, "My Johnny Lingo". Here are just a few of the things on my list:

good shoes
good looking, but not TOO good looking,
likes to watch football
drives fast
no pets
good taste in furniture
smells good
uses Mentadent toothpaste
wears chapstick
no Hawaiian shirts
drinks Gatorade
wears a watch
likes fruit
knows how to fix things
business minded
likes Target
likes old people
fan of Mexican food

The list is actually written on a brown paper towel from one of those dispensers in the bathroom. If anyone needs to see the list for authenticity, you are welcome to it. And of course, these are just a few of the most important qualities I was looking for in the Mormon man of my dreams. And C fulfills just about everyone of my important qualities, except for the whole liking old people and using Mentadent parts, but no body is perfect. Right?

2) Know yourself and what makes you happy. Have your own identity. In March of 2003, I compliled a list of 101 questions about me. I wanted to know what I liked and what I didn't like without worrying about what anyone else thought or being influenced by anyone else's opinions. I think it's important when going in to any relationship that you have a true understanding of who you are so that you can offer your 'best self' to that person. Some of the questions and answers include:

What do you like to do for fun? bowl, swing at the park, watch movies, play games
What is your favorite color? red
How many kids do you want? 4 or 5
What's the most beautiful thing in the world to you? A happy family
Will you spank your children? Probably, yes.
How do you feel about promptness? Very important, I don't like being late
Do you like animals? Only at the zoo, not in my house
How many girls have you kissed? 0
What do you like on your pizza? Pepperoni or Hawaaiian
Do your feet stink? When they are sweaty, yes

This is just a sample of the 101 questions.

3) Accept a blind date invitation. Sure, they're risky - but... what's the worst that could happen? And you never know, it may just work out. My parents met on a blind date set up by my mom's sister. Just make sure the person setting up the blind date is someone you trust. Also to keep in mind, you may want to meet this person somewhere. If they find out where you live and turn out to be a total creep - not good. If you sense the date is going nowhere, simply excuse yourself and go home.

I went on a date with this guy once. It wasn't a blind date, but I didn't know anything about him. We met at an Italian restaurant for dinner where he proceeded to tell me about everything on the menu that he recommended. Being polite, I ordered one of his recommendations and then he ordered soup and salad for himself. When I asked him why, he said because my meal was too expensive for us to both get main entrees. (oops!) The funny thing was, he then went on to tell me how much money he makes and how successful he is and that I should feel lucky he wanted to take me out and be my 'sugar daddy'. Needless to say, the date didn't last much longer.

4) Be honest. If you're not ready to get in to a relationship, tell them up front. If you are only looking for something serious, make sure the person you are going out with knows within the first few dates. It's awkward for everyone when you and your date go in to the relationship with different expectations. Like the time I went out with this guy 3 or 4 times because he had a really cute co-worker that we'd run in to occasionally and my 'date' was looking for a wife. Or like the time I told C after our first kiss that I didn't want to get into anything serious because I wanted to keep my options open. We were engaged 6 weeks later.

5) Don't go to BYU. You'll find all kinds of Mormon guys, but not necessarily the one of your dreams. Keep in mind, this is my opinion and experience only, but while attending BYU-Idaho (at the time, Ricks College), I met a lot of eligible bachelors, but none I felt quite lived up to my "Johnny Lingo" expectations.

So C. K. - you know who you are... while you are searching for the Mormon man of your dreams, just remember: C is taken, but there are plenty of others out there, you just may not find him in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Staying Busy

I have been trying to stay busy over the last couple of months with little projects here and there. Most of the time has been spent sewing and making things to use for our little one. Thanks to some great friends who taught me how to make bows and crochet, here are a few of my recent projects:


My first quilt - still a work in progress


Beanies


Baby blanket


Breast feeding cover


Leggings and Bows


Receiving blankets


Burp cloths


Boppy cover

I am happy to teach anyone how to do any one of these things (except to crochet, I'm still learning). Or, if you'd like me to make you something... let me know. And if you have any ideas for new projects too, I'd love to hear.

Utah Utes

So although tonight is the much anticipated VP debate, I am in my bedroom listening to my husband in the living room shout at the television. Yes, the Utah Utes are playing. I can tell they aren't playing their best and that Oregon State is winning just by what C is saying. I am hearing things like...

"Danget, Brian" (QB: Brian Johnson)
"Get rid of the ball!"
"C'mon guys... pay attention"
"NOOOOOO!"
"Gosh danget!" (while fists are pounding on sofa)
"That's what they did to USC" (more fist pounding)
"Ugh, that's frustrating."

I try to avoid the living room when a Utah game is on. C gets very animated and passionate about University of Utah sports. Oh, and there is a bowl of peanut butter M&M's on the coffee table. He also gets very distracted while watching sports. I just put the bowl out yesterday and my guess is that by the end of the game, it will be empty.

C was devastated earlier today when he found out "PTI" didn't record on our DVR. He was really hoping they would be talking about the Utes today. Honestly, do Tony and Mike have nothing better to talk about?

Almost, but not quite yet...

We had quite an adventure this weekend. After a terrible reaction to a nasty flu bug, I ended up in the hospital with contractions and a high fever. This baby still has 7 more weeks to cook, but apparently she thought now was a good time. We are home now and feeling much better. But, I thought now would be a good time to play a little game considering the details of our recent experience. I will provide as much information as possible about this baby and you will try to guess all the details of her birth.

So - my original due date is November 12, 2008. According to the ultrasound at 20 weeks, she was measuring due on November 9, 2008. After the ultrasound this weekend in the hospital, she is measuring about 2 weeks early from her original due date, which would be October 30th. They estimate her current weight at 5.5lbs, but there is about a 13oz. margin of error on ultrasound weight estimate. The ultrasound tech did say she has a 'nice size head' which doesn't sound comforting for the mother who has to birth her. I just keep saying, 'epidural, epidural, epidural.' They also said she just has some peach fuzz on her head, no actual hair to speak of.

C was born at around 5.5lbs a week early; I was born on time at just under 9lbs. C is 6'1" with dark curly hair and dark eyes and I am about 5'9" on a good day with blond straight hair and blue eyes. C was born with lots of hair and I was bald 'til age 3. That's why my mom pierced my ears when I was a baby, which I would like to do for our little girl, but C is opposed.

I am having contractions every time I get up or move around much at all, but nothing painful or consistent. But my hospital bag is packed and ready to go, just in case she decides to express her opinion once again and say, "okay, now!" (she is opinionated like her mother, I can tell already)

Okay, here are the things you need to guess:

Birth Date:
Weight: lbs/ozs
Height: inches
Hair Color, if any:
Hours in Labor: think optimistically

For the person who has the most accurate overall answers, there will be a special prize like a personalized drawing from me on "Paint" or something even more exciting. Maybe I'll write a special blog about how intelligent and insightful you are or maybe you'll just get to bring me dinner postpartum. We'll have to see, but take a guess and see what you come up with.

A great new read

I am reading a new, fascinating book called Parenting, Inc. It has been very insightful as we begin to embark on this journey of parenthood. From her website, www.pamelapaul.com, she summarizes the book as this:

A leading social critic goes inside the billion-dollar baby business to expose the marketing and the myths, helping parents determine what's worth their money-and what's a waste Parenting coaches, ergonomic strollers, music classes, sleep consultants, luxury diaper creams, a never-ending rotation of DVDs that will make a baby smarter, socially adept, and bilingual before age three. Time-strapped, anxious parents hoping to provide the best for their baby are the perfect mark for the 'parenting' industry.

In Parenting, Inc., Pamela Paul investigates the whirligig of marketing hype, peer pressure, and easy consumerism that spins parents into purchasing overpriced products and raising overprotected, overstimulated, and over-provided-for children. Paul shows how the parenting industry has persuaded parents that they cannot trust their children's health, happiness, and success to themselves. She offers a behind-the-scenes look at the baby business so that any parent can decode the claims-and discover shockingly unuseful products and surprisingly effective services. And she interviews educators, psychologists, and parents to reveal why the best thing for a baby is to break the cycle of self-recrimination and indulgence that feeds into overspending. Paul's book leads the way for every parent who wants to escape the spiral of fear, guilt, competition, and consumption that characterizes modern American parenthood.

For any of you other parents out there that feel inundated with advertisements and marketing ploys to guilt you in to thinking you're doing your children a disservice by not providing them the best of the best - this may be a good read for you. It has really boosted my confidence in my ability or lack thereof to be a good mom without feeling guilty.

New baby niece and 32 weeks along

Baby Carly - 4 weeks old

32 Weeks and counting....

Is that me?

Okay, fine... I'll do this Corbo, but only because it's you.

The Rules: Mention rules on your blog -Tell about 6 quirks of yours -Tag 6 fellow bloggers to do the same.

#1 I have to eat candy after every meal. Sounds like just an excuse to eat candy right? No, after every meal - I get a craving for candy. Usually Chewy Spree or Skittles, but just about any candy will do. Lately it's been Twizzlers Cherry Nibs or Starburst.

#2 I talk loudly on the phone. I mean really really loudly as if I'm trying to talk to the person who really is across the country in person, like they can hear me. My husband usually reminds me to take it down a notch or 20 when he's home and when he's not home, I'm sure my neighbors love me. So - sorry if I've ever yelled in your ear when talking to you on the phone.

#3 I hate to backtrack or retrace my steps. I know it sounds silly, but I will plan out the most efficient way to get as much laundry as possible from the living room to the bedroom so I don't have to do it over and over again. Or, if I have to run several errands in one day, I will map out a list of what order I need to go to those places in so that I don't have to backtrack.

#4 I have a box full of unread books in my closet, yet I still go to the library every week and check out a new book or two. Why don't I just read the books I have? I don't know. Maybe because I like the idea of reading a book that isn't mine, or maybe it's that I can read those books anytime - but I will only have the library books to read as long as I'm going to the library.

#5 I have a place for every thing. I very, very rarely lose things because everything has a place. I have rubbermaids, baskets, boxes, and all kinds of containers for every possible thing. It is so frustrating for me to misplace something I know I have, so I make a place for everything. Just this afternoon - I organized all of my fingernail polishes and removers in a little box on my bathroom closet shelf. Now, anytime I'm looking for anything fingernail related - it's all right there.

#6 You tell me... What are some things I do that you'd consider a quirk? Don't worry, you won't hurt my feelings. Quirks can be fun and interesting. So... you tell me.

I am tagging: Kimberly H, Katie J, Camille S, PMB and whoever else wants to share their quirks!

Swiss Days Parade

I am currently visiting my sister in Utah. (Yes, I know - it seems I've been traveling all month long. I have.) She just had her second little girl a few weeks ago and I came out to help in any way I can. We've been playing and having tons of fun, of course. This morning, we decided to head to Midway for the annual Swiss Days Festival. My brother, his two girls, sister, her two girls, and myself had a great time. We got there just in time to enjoy the parade festivities. I was of course traveling with some inexperienced parade goers and had to teach them the art of acquiring as much candy as possible. It was a huge success. We left with a bag full of candy.

I did notice something interesting that my husband, brother, and father can appreciate. Utahns are very passionate about their sports alliances and since today was the first official day of college football, the BYU and Utah shirts were out in force. I couldn't resist torturing one very obvious Utah fan dressed head to toe in Ute garb. I shouted, "Go Michigan" as he walked by. Oh my - I got the dirtiest look ever! It was hilarious - I couldn't help but just laugh. I'm sure if I weren't a pregnant woman, he probably would have wanted to beat my face in. Of course my husband wouldn't appreciate my sense of humor in regards to Utah sports seeing as how I am a University of Utah alumni and he is currently in Michigan to see the Utes vs Wolverines in the "Big House".

I am heading home tomorrow and am really looking forward to the next 10 weeks staying home and relaxing. Yes, I am officially 10 weeks away from my due date. I still feel pretty good aside from the usual heartburn and restless leg at bed time. I'm sure the days of discomfort are sure to come my way. I hope you have all had a wonderful summer. I know this has been one of the best summers I can ever remember and it couldn't have come at a better time.

Take me back to Chicago!

C and I just got back from a trip to Chicago. We had such a great time; Chicago is a really cool city. Granted, it was super crowded and there were people every where. We stayed in a town called Glenview and took the Metra in to the city every day. The first day we walked around for about 8 hours and my legs were totally shot for the rest of the trip, I could barely walk by the end of each day. It probably didn't help that I only wore flip flops. But, we still had a great time and got to do lots of fun things.

I had to go for work and we decided to make a whole weekend out of it. It's only about an 8 hour drive from where we live and went by quickly. I spent all day Monday and part of Tuesday at the StyleMax show in the Merchandise Mart. Basically, it's where all the retailers go to see the clothes coming out for the next couple of seasons and place orders to merchandise their stores. For someone who loves clothes, it was heaven and torture all at the same time. Thousands of square feet of beautiful clothing that you can't buy and I can't fit in to. But - I did get to help select the new inventory for the fall and holiday season at our store. Very exciting!

Here are some pictures of our trip...


This is C and I at the top of the Sears Tower.


In front of the river in downtown. We took a water taxi - that was fun!


At the Chicago Temple, our Mission President was just serving at the Temple President here.


We were taking a break inside at the Navy Pier and we decided to take a picture of my growing bump at 28 weeks.

We had a really great time in Chicago and I would recommend it to anyone. We are heading out this week to San Diego for one last 'hurrah' before the little one arrives. Can't wait!

My idea of reading

My friend and fellow blogger, PMB, recently made a post on her blog about TV and reading. I actually typed out a comment to her post and then when I went to sign in - lost it. So, I decided to post a comment by creating my own post about the subject. (thanks for the idea PMB)

Since I have only been working about 6 hours a week, I have a lot of free time. I try to fill my days with time at the pool, trips to JoAnn Fabrics for yet another sewing project, doing stuff around the house to get ready for the little one, driving to Sonic for 'Happy Hour' and chatting on the phone. But even with all that, I still spend a significant amount of time reading or watching TV. I am very easily entertained by television and even if there isn't something I am specifically looking to watch, I can almost always find something interesting on TLC, MTV, Bravo, or E!.

When I am not watching TV or doing any number of other activities, I am reading. I would categorize the genre of books I usually read as 'chick lit'. Basically, I find that the books I read are very similar to the type of shows I watch on TV. I like stories that move quickly without a lot of descriptive details. I recently admitted to C that when reading a book, I skim through most of it only really reading the dialogue. This way, I get the story and can move on to the next book fairly quickly. At this rate, I get through sometimes 2 books a week. He jokingly said that is probably why I flunked out of college, because textbooks don't usually have dialogue in them. Although I did not flunk out of college and graduated with flying colors, I did manage to do it without ever actually reading a textbook.

There must be something positive I am gaining from all the dialogue of 'chick lit' I'm reading because I do find that when I am reading on a regular basis I am able to talk better. Does that make sense? Meaning, I am able to put words, thoughts, and sentences together more clearly. I do enjoy reading and I enjoy being able to communicate effectively even if I am only reading the ever so pressing conversations that happen in 'chick lit'.

26 Weeks and Counting

Here I am at 26 weeks. And here it's what happening to my belly button.



Weird right? It's almost turning inside out. Funny! Pretty soon I'll have an outie - ah! When I tell people how far along I am, they always say, "You are all baby". What exactly is that expression supposed mean?

My new little niece

My sister had her second baby on Friday. After 40 minutes at the hospital and 2 pushes, the little girl came just as happy as could be. She is just beautiful. She doesn't have a name yet, but whatever it is - it will fit her perfectly.

Desperate Need

Okay, so some of you may not consider this 'desperate', but I do. As I am getting closer and closer to the birth of this little one in my belly, I am beginning to shop for things that we will need over the next 12 months or so. One thing I am absolutely frustrated with is baby clothing. Why is every little girl thing PINK? Don't they make grey, black, navy, green, orange, plum, red, or any other beautiful color out there? I do love pink and I understand that at some point, my child will be forced to wear pink, but please... not every day! Does anyone have any great places to shop to baby clothes that offer a great variety of colors and styles?

Also, since I've been spending a lot more time at home the last few months, I have rediscovered my love of sewing. If anyone needs anything sewn, including, but not limited to: baby blankets, burp cloths, breast feeding hiders, baby slings, or anything else you can think of... let me know.

A little more about me...

I was looking through an old box of stuff in my nightstand and came across 2 very interesting pieces of paper. I don't remember when I wrote them, but I thought it would be fun to share some of what I wrote.

The first one is titled: Someday I want to...

Be a mom
Read "Jesus the Christ"
Cruise the Caribbean
Volunteer at a hospital
Go to EFY
Go to a day spa
Climb "R" mountain
Snowmobile
Take an art class
Paint a wall in my house red
Shop in New York City
Work at the temple
Put my journal in to a book
Play a hymn on the piano (both hands)
Play with my kids at the park
Go parasailing
Go to Egypt and see the pyramids
Graduate from college
Change someones life
Start my own business
Understand why I went on a mission
Teach a class
Sing to my husband
See a temple dedicated in my mission

The other list is titled: "Things I like to do..." (I guess maybe I thought I'd forget or something)

Go fishing
Collect leaves in the fall
Bowl
Make snowballs, but not get hit by them
Write in my journal
Eat candy (of course)
Talk to my family
Cooking for others
Sleep
Sing (although I don't do it well)
Watch old movies
Give gifts
Look at furniture
Skeet shoot
Shop
Play ping pong
Read
Swim
Look at pictures
Talk on the phone
Sew
Watch reality TV
Color in a coloring book T
Teach

Greek Mythology

Do any of you remember studying Greek Mythology in Junior High? I remember it as some of the worst weeks ever. Really... what is the point of Greek Mythology? Maybe it's just me, but why do we waste weeks of time in school talking about these gods and goddesses and these stories that are all make believe?

I was recently reminded of my loathe for Greek Mythology by watching a recent episode of Jeopardy. We record it on the DVR and watch it together every day. C usually gets more answers right than I do, but I get the more difficult ones. : ) This past week, there was an entire category devoted to questions about Greek Mythology. Who cares?!? The contestants were chiming in to answer all of the questions correctly. How do people know this stuff and why does it matter?

It's a GIRL!!

Baby Bump Pictures

15 weeks



20 weeks



C's sympathy bump

Color Quiz

I took the same color quiz that PMB took only the results were mostly inaccurate except for this:

My Problem:
Greatly impressed by the unique, by originality, and by individuals of outstanding characteristics. Tries to emulate the characteristics she admires and to display originality in her own personality.

Is that really a problem?

Good News, Bad News

So I know I promised some exciting news today, but you'll just have to wait. It turns out the girl at my Doctor's office wrote down the wrong day on my appointment reminder card - so my ultrasound was actually supposed to be Tuesday. Since I was planning it for today, I missed it. But - I was able to reschedule for Monday, so only a few more days of mystery.

Any magical remedies for heartburn besides drinking mylanta by the glass and snacking on tums all day?

Doctor's Appointment, then Ultrasound

I had an appointment today with my midwife and almost past out in her office; my blood pressure was so low. Guess I need to eat more sugar in the morning. Coke for breakfast anyone? Other than that - everything went well.

My ultrasound appointment is next week when we find out the gender of the baby. Boy? Girl? Maybe one of each. Any guesses? For anyone willing to take a guess... if you are correct - maybe I'll share a little something with you.

Adventures in Heber City

This past week, C and I traveled to Heber City, Utah to spend some time with my family. My parents will be leaving in less than 2 weeks on a 3 year adventure to Southern Chile. My father will be serving as Mission President for our church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. My mother will be his constant companion and no doubt, bring some excitement to the missionary work. We are so happy and excited for them to be doing the Lord's work and for setting such great examples for us of humility and sacrifice. We are so grateful for them.

While we were in Utah, we were able to be present when my parents were set apart by Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and Elder Lawrence E. Corbridge, member of the First Quorum of Seventy and a new member of the Chile Area Presidency.

This is a picture of my family along with Elder Perry and Elder Corbridge.


Here are my parents with my nieces: Emmy, Katie, and Alison (at Temple Square in SLC)


This is my brother Aaron and his wife, Annika with their 2 girls: Emmy and Alison


Of course, here is C and I in our own picture at Temple Square with the baby bump


And then my sister Darin with her husband, Mike and little Katie with another little girl coming next month


It really was a wonderful weekend and I am so grateful we had that time to spend together as a family. We are planning a trip to Chile possibly next December and are looking forward to it already.

Cruise Pictures

I promised pictures and here they are...



This is a group shot of all of us at a resort in Mazatlan, Mexico. (above)



C and I at dinner on the ship. (above)



Last day on the ship waiting to disembark. (above)

We really had a great time. Thanks to all our friends for making it a memorable vacation.

I'm Back!

We got back super late last night from our fun filled vacation. We spent the first few days hanging out in Long Beach, CA before boarding the cruise ship on Sunday. I was a little nervous about cruising pregnant and let's just say, we probably won't be cruising while I'm pregnant again - if we can help it. I had a great time, we all did. I just felt really sick half the time and couldn't do much. C says I'm not really fun anyway, but I was especially not fun on this trip. The days we spend in Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta were a blast. We spent some time on the beach, C went parasailing, I ate a Mexican Popsicle... overall - it was fun. The days on the ship, however, were not quite as fun.

I will hopefully get some pictures uploaded here in the next day or so and you can see our fun filled adventure vacation. But first let me tell you a story... a very embarrassing one. And I'm only doing this because I don't normally get embarrassed, but this day will be one I'll never forget.

It's Saturday night, the last night of our cruise. The ship was really rocking and rolling so I went to bed while the others we were with went to a comedy show. I was lying in my bed thinking, "I am going to throw up, it's just a matter of time." Within a few minutes, I was on the bathroom floor with my face in the toilet throwing up everything I had eaten for the past 7 days (so it felt). But the worst part is that I have lost a lot of control in my stomach muscles from being pregnant and the pressure on my bladder from throwing up caused me to need to go to the bathroom. But I couldn't stop throwing up, so there I am crouched down throwing up and peeing my pants at the same time. There was nothing I could do, I couldn't hold it in... nothing. Talk about humiliating. At 27 years old, I still wet my pants.

We're Cruising

Thanks everyone for the great pregnancy advice. Popsicles and jolly ranchers seem to be helping, as well as Sonic Happy Hour slushes. I discovered the new Lemon Berry flavor this week and it's amazing!

I am leaving on Friday for a fun filled vacation and couldn't be more excited. What is it about vacations that are so exhilarating? My dad would say it's the anticipation leading up to the actual trip. In fact, he usually has a trip countdown on his desk top to look at every day. I enjoy the whole thing. I love being somewhat disconnected from what's going on in the world, no cell phones, no computers, no TV. And even though those things generally fill up the majority of time throughout my day - the cruise ship is filled with fun like all the food you could ever imagine, swimming pools, ping pong (a personal favorite), tennis courts, game rooms and a library. Yes - I do make the occasional trip to the library and browse the collection of books on a cruise ship.

We will be enjoying this vacation with some great friends who we don't get to see very often. I imagine C and his friend, J - sitting in the shade protecting their precious skin from the damaging rays of the sun discussing things like financial investments, C's plans after Law School, and whatever else the future may hold. All the while J's wife, K and I will be lounging by the pool, drinking lemonade and discussing the more interesting facets of life such as... babies, waxing, shopping, and reality TV. After all - isn't that what vacations are all about?

Pregnancy News

Okay, so yes... I'm pregnant. We heard the baby's heartbeat a few weeks ago and that was really cool. It sort of made everything seem a bit more real; Well that and the morning sickness. More like all day and all night sickness. I know there are many of you more experienced mothers out there, so what are some of your tricks of the trade? I think I woke up 3 times last night to eat something because I just felt so sick. I do find that it helps if I drink some sort of slush or smoothie. I have a hard time with meat and vegetables, but Taco Bell seems to work well. Any ideas out there?

Also, we don't know if it' s a boy or girl yet and we won't find out for several more weeks. C is convinced it's a boy, so I like to refer to it as a girl just to make things exciting and a little controversial. What is your prediction? If it's a girl, she will be the 5th neice on my side of the family and no nephews. This will be the first baby on C's side of the family.

We are very excited about this new adventure and looking forward to the arrival of our little Husker in November.

Measuring Your Worth

I really love Eliza magazine. In a 'note from the editor', Summer Bellessa says, "How do you measure your worth? You can quantify self-esteem by the numbers in your bank account, the amount of verbal accolades you receive each day, your style quotient as determined by the amount of brand names in your closet or the number of heads you turn when walking down the street. The problem with these methods is the fact that you give up control of your worth and place it in categories that can constantly change... Part of dressing should be finding things you feel comfortable in and that give you the freedom to live a full life, doing things that will make this world a better place. Those are the things that truly build your self-worth."

I love this magazine for what it stands for. My subscription is up for renewal and I can't wait for the next issue to arrive.

Oh and by the way... the rumors are true. I'm pregnant!

Where I've Been...

I'm sorry for not writing sooner. It has been a crazy couple of weeks for me. 2 weeks ago I was at some meetings in Cleveland. I was supposed to fly back that Friday, but got stuck at the airport for an extra night. Last week, I was at our National Meeting for work in Palm Springs, CA. It was absolutely beautiful! I was so happy to see sunshine and feel the warm ocean breeze. I just wish we would have had a little extra time to relax by the pool and soak in some sun. We did have an exciting evening at the San Andreas Fault Ranch which including shooting a BB gun, roping a cow, and a live country band.

The resort hotel we stayed at in Palm Springs was amazing. The only thing I didn't love - the food. In my family, we call it 'hoity-toity' food. We had almost all of our meals right at the hotel since that is where the conference was taking place. Our meals consisted of mostly things I couldn't pronounce. I was in line for lunch the first day thinking to myself, "Don't they just have a turkey sandwich?" I am not very adventurous when it comes to food and left most meals early to run to the hotel gift shop for a bag of pretzels and a granola bar to hold me over to the next exciting mystery meal. One day, they even served octopus and cantaloupe together and called it salad. Really? Finally dinner at the San Andreas Fault consisted of BBQ chicken, macaroni and cheese, cornbread, and strawberry shortcake for dessert. Not only was it food I actually recognized, it tasted wonderful.

I can appreciate those of you out there with more tolerant taste buds and an exotic appetite, but what is so wrong with a cheeseburger?

Short Break

I am currently traveling for work and will be away all next week. Please bear with me while I take a short break from blogging. I'll be sure to post something extremely interesting and exciting when I return. Thanks!

Pictures of Elizabeth

Elizabeth sent this picture of her with some children in Africa. She is in the light yellow sweater.

An update from Elizabeth

I got an e-mail today from my friend, Elizabeth. She was in Kenya with her daughter, Turi, when a terrible war broke out. They were unable to leave the country. With several friends and family, we were able to raise enough money to get Elizabeth and Turi to a safe place. She said this in her e-mail:

Thank you for everything. We have we did not have any communication facillity. It was very difficult to leave my family behind so I took them all with me and we travelled to Swaziland and have been staying there. They cried their hearts out and we had to do the best we could with the money you sent us. It took my family to a safe haven. I am so very grateful. Peace has returned in Kenya after Kofi Annan intervened. I was in Kenya for a reason. I was taught how we take many things foregranted in the United States. I arrived here last Friday and there are so many homeless people. I have been praying about it and I think as a trained nurse I was commissioned by the Lord to take care. I will stay here and work among the Internally displaced persons(IDPs) and those in camps. I have just done some work with the IDPs and I will stay here and do what the Lord wants me to do. Help these people. I have setted my whole family in Swaziland and that money is going a long long way.Attached please see some pictures I took. My heart bleeds for these people. The Church has taught me a lot and I am humbled. We have very many volunteers from other parts of the world. This was my calling. Karen we all find a purpose to be in this world and I have found mine.

She forgot to attach the pictures, but when I get them, I will put a few on my blog page. I am so happy to hear her family is safe and she is helping others. She really is amazing! Thanks again to all those who helped and prayed for her.

What's in a name?

This is how a web-site describes me based on my name. Accurate or no?

You are a seeker of knowledge, and you have learned many things in your life.You are also a keeper of knowledge - meaning you don't spill secrets or spread gossip.People sometimes think you're snobby or aloof, but you're just too deep in thought to pay attention to them.You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection. You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive. You have the classic "Type A" personality.

You are wild, crazy, and a huge rebel. You're always up to something.You have a ton of energy, and most people can't handle you. You're very intense.You definitely are a handful, and you're likely to get in trouble. But your kind of trouble is a lot of fun.You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone.You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together.

At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together.You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people.You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts.You are prone to a little paranoia and jealousy. You sometimes go overboard in interpreting signals.

I'm slacking already!

I've only had this blog for a few months now, but I am already behind on my posts. I apologize to the faithful readers and promise to do better. Although I'm not sure what to write about in this particular post, it may just become a rambling of thoughts.

I was told that my blog has become quite the topic of discussion at a certain Law School. For those of you who are reading my blog in the interest of finding something to give C a hard time about - this one's for you... (and for the rest of you, find a new hobby)

I am going to recall the experience of my first kiss with C. It's a hilarious story actually, but requires some background information. C and I met while serving as missionaries for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. While as a missionary, you don't date or really even 'look' at the opposite sex with an inquisitive eye. C and I became very good friends because we were both serving in the same district and had weekly meetings. We were also the only missionaries within about a 150 miles of rural Vermont. C came home from his mission 7 months before I did. I came home from my mission and shortly after, moved to UT to finish my education - we decided to get together. After the first of the year in 2004 we started seeing each other more regularly. I was still somewhat hesitant about getting involved in a serious relationship and to be honest, I felt like C was only hanging out with me because he felt sorry for me. I used to refer to myself as his 'service project', although he consistently reminded me I was not. I believe it was sometime in January, we had gone to a basketball game with some of our friends; to support his team, he was wearing his favorite Utah hat. That evening, we were sitting on the couch at his parents house just talking and watching television. I was going to say good -bye and I saw him turn his hat around backwards, so the bill wouldn't get in the way (not obvious at all). He could tell I was nervous because I wasn't really sure if I ready for our relationship to go in that direction. He said, "it's not against the rules anymore" and kissed me.

We are about to celebrate our 4 year anniversary and it's been a blast. I think the first year was definitely tough just adjusting to living with a boy, but we've really learned and changed a lot and I'm happy.

Bits about me...

1. What time did you get up this morning? 7:30
2. Diamonds or pearls? I really like both, but I'll go with Diamonds
3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? Um... I don't really remember. How about Juno
4. What is your favorite TV show? America's Next Top Model, Project Runway, Grey's Anatomy, Jeopardy, Oprah, Live with Regis and Kelly, The Hills, Run's House, Law and Order, Extreme Home Makeover. If there wasn't such thing as TV, I have no idea what I would do with my life.
5. What do you eat for breakfast? Oatmeal, every day.
6. What is your middle name? Elizabeth
7. What food do you dislike? I don't like mushrooms, tomatoes, cream cheese, sour cream, cheesecake, milk, yogurt, spinach, seafood, and a few more things. I'm a pretty picky eater.
8. What is your favorite CD at the moment? I don't really have any CD's, but I love Celine Dion's Christmas album.
9. What kind of car do you drive? Camry
10. Favorite sandwich? Chicken Salad
11. What characteristic do you despise? Smelly
12. Favorite item of clothing? Jeans that I would pay to wear to work, but can't
13. Favorite piece of jewelry? My wedding ring or Swarovski earrings
14. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go? Egypt and Greece
16. Favorite brand of clothing? Banana Republic
17. Where would you retire? Somewhere warm
18. What was your most recent memorable birthday? I've had many great birthdays full of fun and surprises
19. Favorite sport to watch? I like basketball and football, occasionally golf.
20. Furthest Place you are sending this? Someone in a foreign land who finds my blog relatively interesting.
21. Who do you least expect to do this test? Anyone who doesn't want to
22. Person you expect to do it first? No one, actually
23. Favorite saying? Good night.
24. When is your birthday? December
25. Are you a morning person or a night person? Neither, I like to wake up around 8 and go to bed around 10.
26. What is your shoe size? 8.5
27. Pets? No, thank you!
28. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share with us? My parents are moving to Chile.
29. What did you want to be when you were younger? Business woman and Mom What are you today? Business woman
31. What is your favorite candy? Jordan Almonds, but any candy really.
32. What is your favorite flower? White roses
33. What is a day on the calendar you are looking forward to? This week? Friday.
33. What is your full name? Secret
34. What are you listening to right now? My neighbor at work talking on the phone
35. What was the last thing you ate? Hamburger
36. Do you wish on stars? Nope
37. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Red or Black
38. How is the weather right now? COLD
41. Favorite soft drink? Dr. Pepper, Pepsi, Coke - depends on the day
42. Favorite restaurant? Parthenon
43. Hair color? Blonde
44. Siblings? 2
45. Favorite day of the year? Christmas!
46. What was your favorite toy as a child? A doll named Lisa.
47. Summer or Winter? Summer - definitely.
48. Hugs or kisses? Hugs
49. Favorite Scripture? Proverbs 3:5 "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all they ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths."
50. Chocolate or Vanilla? Twist

"The Choice"

For those of you interested in learning more about the study on happiness referenced in my last post, go to: http://abcnews.go.com/2020/story?id=4086092&page=1

As for "The Choice", it's the title of my new book by Nicholas Sparks. This is my first Nicholas Sparks read and I am enjoying it so far. When I think of Nicholas Sparks I think of sappy love stories like the Notebook. Although I enjoyed the movie, it wasn't my favorite. I decided to read "The Choice" because I heard it was good and because I decided that "don't knock it 'til you try it" phrase only works when you do actually try something and so far - I'm not disappointed.

While I was reading last night, one paragraph really stood out to me. It's on page 111 and says, "It always amazes me that once you cut through the clutter, people are pretty much the same. Especially through adolescence and early adulthood. For the most part, people go through the same experiences and think the same things, but somehow no one ever escapes the belief that his experience in unique in every conceivable way." I think this statement because it reminds me of the title of my blog and also because I agree with it. I know I've mentioned this before, but really, this is something I spend a lot of time thinking about. I know that we are different because we have different personalities, we respond to situations differently and communicate differently, but when all that is worn down and stripped away - we are relatively the same. Not to assume anything and let me know if you disagree, but I would dare to say that everyone is striving for success in their lives. Whether or not success looks the same to me and you is irrelevant. We are both working towards something we feel is important. It requires hard work and sacrifice. We all have wants and needs. And just like success, my wants and needs look different from yours but they are still wants and needs. We all have goals. If your goal is to make it to the end of the day or to become the President - they are goals. We all have relationships: good and not so good. What else? What else do we all have that makes us the same and do you agree that once all the 'differences are stripped away', we really are the same?

Live like the Danes

Last night, C and I watched an episode of 60 Minutes that we recorded on Sunday. One of their feature stories was about the happiest countries in the world. The number one happiest country in the world is... Denmark; and it has been for the last 30 years. Where did the United States rank? Somewhere in the 20s. So, what makes Denmark the happiest country in the world? A few things actually.

The experts interviewed said that Denmark is happy because people are content and claim to have very little to complain about. They don't have extremely high expectations, so they don't get disappointed very often. It was also pointed out that there isn't a major disparity between classes. Danes like to believe that they are tolerant towards other people regardless of creed or color according to www.studyindenmark.dk. One man in particular says he is happy because people don't judge his choice of career as a garbage man and because he has plenty of time to spend with his family. The article in ABC News says, "Denmark is what is called a "post consumerist" society. People have nice things, but shopping and consuming is not a top priority...In Denmark, you can see trust in action all around you. Vegetable stands run on the honor system, mothers leave babies unattended in strollers outside cafés, and most bicycles are left unlocked."

Compare that to the United States, and people seem to never be content and the difference between classes creates increased competition. But this sense of competition isn't to see who can be the happiest, it's to see who has the most stuff. Of couse, I am a shopper myself, but within reason. And even if C says shopping isn't a hobby - it is to me. But not much is left up to the honor system these days in America, babies are never left alone and if they are - it can be splashed all over the headlines (ie: Britney Spears). So what do we do to live more like the Danes?

A group of Danish students were asked if they preferred the glitz and glamour of America to life in Denmark. One responded that he would rather live in Denmark than become consumed by the American Dream.

I have always had high expectations of myself and get discouraged when I dwell on trying to do better. But after seeing this story and reading more about it, I am going to make a more conscious effort to be content and happy with where I am right now and what I've accomplished.

Secrets

Wow, thanks so much everyone for your comments on my last post. In this post, I want to talk about secrets. Every body has them - just how many do we have? Listed under 'favorite links' I have a link to a web-site called Post Secret. I look forward to checking it out every Monday. Basically, people send in home made postcards disclosing some secret and they are posted on this web-site every Sunday. Some of the secrets are dark, some are funny. I have noticed though, a lot of the secrets could potentially really hurt someone. Reading this web-site has really made me think about my own 'secrets'. I don't really have any super mysterious or interesting secrets, but I do have secrets. I'll tell you a secret, but you can't tell anyone, okay? Just kidding. Actually, I'll tell you 3 secrets.

1) I have a list of everyone I've ever kissed in my life and when I was younger, I used to rate them on a scale from 1-10. Of course I started writing 10, then 10+, then 10++, so I figure my rating scale was a bit skewed. Now with C in my life, I don't ever have to worry about that again.

2) I love to watch Jeopardy. I am not extremely intelligent and hardly get any answers right, but I really love to watch it. And I am facinated with how quickly those people know answers to questions I sometimes can't even pronounce.

3) When I was in college, I used to buy a lot of those rubbermaid or ziploc disposable storage containers. You're supposed to wash and reuse then again and again, but when I didn't feel like doing the dishes I threw them away.

So I know, my secrets are lame, but they were secrets until now. I'm sure if I thought long enough, I could come up with some more interesting ones. Certainly not as interesting or controversial as some of the ones on Post Secret. I guess no matter how serious or personal the secret is, it can be a secret as long as we allow it to be.

To Choose, or Not to Choose

My husband and I often have the discussion about whether or not we choose how we feel. My husband, who I will now refer to as C because 'my husband' takes too long to type, feels that we choose how we feel and more specifically we choose when we are offended by someone or something. This discussion usually comes after I have had my feelings hurt or been offended in some way and I am simply expressing those feelings to C. His response, "you choose to feel that way" offers no comfort. I do agree there are some instances in which I can be a little more sensitive than necessary. However, I do not believe that in all cases and at all times - we choose how we feel.

For example, I don't necessarily think we choose who to fall in love with. We can choose who we are attracted to and choose to associate ourselves with people that we share things in common with or that we enjoy the company of, but how do you choose to feel a certain way about someone or something?

I am certainly not the expert on feelings as some of my friends would say I've been 'emotionally constipated' for years. But I do think how we feel is a response to what we know. I don't know why I am more sensitive than other people sometimes or why I get my feelings hurt. But why would I choose that? Being sad or hurt or angry aren't necessarily feelings that I enjoy. I will admit there are times when I say, "That really hurt my feelings" and C responds with sympathy and compassion that helps to numb the wound. But if it's true, that we really do choose how to feel, then how do I change?

Success and Value

My husband and I attended a lecture over weekend about planning for the future. Most of the people in attendence were students and spouses of students. The wives are generally trying to balance either having a career or children and a spouse in school. The general purpose of the lecture was to give advice on financial planning for the future. What do you do when you get out of school and have an income? Is it imporant to buy life insurance and why? How much should your first house cost? I thoroughly enjoyed the discussion and found it useful. Planning for the future is something my husband and I talk about regularly.

Growing up, my father always used to say, "The more you save now, the more you'll have later." And he's right. We are trying to save what we can and spend wisely. But, something the lecturer said really stuck with me. He said something like, "Some people are defined by their money and some people define their money."

I met this guy once who drove an old beat up Mercedes. He was retired and drove his car in town every day to pick up his mail at the post office. His neighbors all drove very latest and greatest in luxury vehicles. He said if you have to drive the nicest car in town you need people to know if you have money, you don't have as much as you think you do. If you have money and don't really care if anyone knows, then it doesn't matter what you drive and you're richer than the rest. My guess is he wasn't speaking of 'richer' as a manner of material wealth, but more of the quality of life.

My parents weren't rich or poor, but I learned the 'value' of money. I have learned the difference between having nice things because I like them and having nice things because it makes me feel like a better person than those who don't have nice things. I have learned the importance of saving and have experienced my fair share of 'rainy days' in which that savings literally 'saved' me.

Albert Einstein once said,“Try to become not a man of success, but a man of value.” I grew up in a nice town and went to a nice school. Most of my friends drove nice cars. But it wasn't enough to drive a nice car. They had to shop at the right stores, hang out in right places, and carry the right handbag just so everyone knew they had money. But what facinated me about it all is that they didn't have any money. Their parents had money. While I was driving around in an blue Dodge Caravan with wood grain on the side, my friends were driving their brand new Mustangs and Explorers. But please, don't feel sorry for me; at least I had a car. And - I have those years of character development to thank for the current value and condition of my life.

Thank you for the support!

Thank you so much for those who have contacted me with interest in helping Elizabeth and her daughter. I spoke to her this morning and they are doing okay. She is anxious to get out as soon as possible. I will be wiring the money to her and she hopes to be back to the US by Tuesday. I will keep you all posted on her status. Thank you again to everyone for their thoughts and prayers.

Trouble in Kenya

Kenya is currently in a state of unrest. Hundreds have been killed in fighting over the disputed election. My dear friend, Elizabeth, and her daughter, Turi, went to Kenya to visit family before the holidays. As a result of the fighting, she has been unable to leave the country. They have lost everything they have and are currently being supervised by troops and police, however they are desperate to get back to the United States. At this time, we are currently raising money for anyone interested in participating to assistant Elizabeth and Turi.

I met Elizabeth while serving as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Elizabeth and her daughter were baptized and have remained active and faithful members of the church. She has worked as a stock trader, registered nurse, and most recently as the Project Vice President of "The African Water Project".

We are hoping to have a money order sent in the next couple of days. Please let me know if you are interested in contributing.

"Something Blue"

I just finished reading a book by Emily Giffin called, "Something Blue". I started reading it on Monday and couldn't put it down. I just read the very last paragraph which inspired this particular entry. It reads, "Love and Friendship. They are what make us who we are, and what can change us, if we let them." The story is about 2 best friends, who, during a crazy sequence of events end up betraying each other. In the end, they forgive one another and realize the power of true friendship.

As I think back to my early days, I am reminded of my best friends: Sarah Buchanan and Andree Sprik. Then, as I got a bit older and in high school, it was Stacey McMillan and Kena Patterson. I still keep in touch with Stacey and Kena on occasion, but when I think of my all time best friend - the one I couldn't live without, I think of my friend Andrea Usry (now Taylor). Although we haven't seen each other in years and our lives are so different now, some of the best memories I have are with her. And although we don't talk as often as we should, there is something that exists between us and until today, I've never really understood what it is that kept us together all these years. It's true friendship: trust, respect, being happy for one anothers successes, being there to listen to one anothers hardships, it's understanding, and a bond that neither time nor distance can take a away.

So Andrea - I promise to do better at staying in touch with you. I admire you so much as a person, as a mother to three beautiful children, and as a friend. Thank you for always being there for me and giving me the opportuntiy to be there for you.

A few pictures and a few comments...

I sent the link to my blog out to some friends and family yesterday and I have had some positive responses. Keep them coming - positive or negative, I can take it.

Thanks to Bub for his comments on the page. He is a talented writer and offered some great insight in to some of the questions I've asked and topics I've discussed. If you have a chance, read them.

I'm attaching a picture of my family and myself.





New Years Resolutions anyone?