bre & greg

14 Feb - Today I Love

2012-02-14T22:59:00.000-07:00

February 14, 2012

{Today I Love}

Today I love that there is a day set apart each year to show your loved ones that they are loved (because we shouldn't be doing that all year long anyway.)

I love the text from my husband that said, "Do you want heart-shaped pancakes?" To which I respond, "Only if they are pink." To which we have plain ol' pancakes. Love the flowers and the cards he gave me. And pretty much just love him!

13 Feb - Today I Love

2012-02-13T22:57:00.000-07:00

February 13, 2012

{Today I Love}

Today I love that when I do have to work all day, I get an hour lunch. That gives me time to drive home, sit down, and eat, plus have time to do a few other things as well. Much better than the 10 minutes I had to eat before...

(though disadvantage is I don't get to see Greg for lunch anymore. Sad times.)

12 Feb - Today I Love

2012-02-12T22:52:00.000-07:00

February 12, 2012

{Today I Love}

Today I love that it's just Sunday. No work. Delicious food. No stupid people....mmkay, maybe not the last one, so much...but still. Another relaxing day. Just don't love that it goes so fast!

11 Feb - Today I Love

2012-02-11T22:45:00.000-07:00

February 11, 2012

{Today I Love}

Today I love that when I do work Saturdays, it's only for 3 hours. I also love that I get to speak through the window to people, oh and I get to wear jeans!

I also love that I get to see my husband for more than 4 hours...we get to see each other ALL day!

(Minus the 3 hours of work, of course!)

10 Feb - Today I Love

2012-02-10T22:44:00.000-07:00

February 10, 2012

{Today I Love}

Today I love that it's Friday. I also love that there's no drama at work...none...at...all...

(Riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiight!)

09 Feb - Today I Love

2012-02-09T22:29:00.000-07:00

February 9, 2012

{Today I Love}

Today I love that I can sit at the drive-thru and see/hear some pretty great things...such as college boys saying they thing I'm pretty, or people trying to maneuver their way to lane one, and totally not making it. Yes I do laugh at people sometimes, I'm not going to lie. I love working drive-thru.

Also, I love that my husband will bring me McDonald's late at night when he gets home from school.

(Yes, this may be why I haven't lost any more weight!)

08 Feb - Today I Love

2012-02-08T20:36:00.000-07:00

February 8, 2012

{Today I Love}

Today I love that some lady thought it would be okay to use a Wal-Mart electric cart to make her way across the parking lot to come into the bank...ummm, yeah, I don't think that's what they're for. I also loved the beeping noises when she backed up and tried to manover her way through the bank. Oh, and I love that she was really going to ram the doors (we don't have the handicap buttons to automatically open the door) to get out, until I rushed over to open the door before any damage was done.

(I kinda wonder if she took the cart back to Wal-Mart, and if she made it!)

07 Feb - Today I Love

2012-02-07T20:32:00.000-07:00

February 7, 2012

{Today I Love}

Today I love that I have good friends to go to the gym with.

(because I wouldn't go running on my own!)

06 February - Today I Love

2012-02-06T20:26:00.000-07:00

February 6, 2012

{Today I Love}

Today I love that I totally had a conversation with a member in which she was speaking in her native tongue, I couldn't figure out what she was saying (she has a REALLY thick accent when speaking English), and she didn't even realize that she wasn't speaking English...I just sat and stared at her for about 30 seconds before responding, "I'm sorry, what was that?" At least she repeated herself in English this time. Seriously funny!

Also, love that I can make my fingers turn bright purple...

(okay, don't really love that I can do that, but I do love the color!)

05 Feb - Today I Love

2012-02-05T10:24:00.001-07:00

February 5, 2012

{Today I Love}

Today I love that I am in Young Women's and not in primary teaching 10-11 year olds (who are super mean to each other and out of control.) I also love that I got to spend the rest of the day relaxing with my hubby, watching football, eating delicious food, and napping. (I love days we don't have to work!)

04 Feb - Today I Love

2012-02-04T10:20:00.000-07:00

February 4, 2012

{Today I Love}

Today I love that I didn't have to work today, my one Saturday off this month! (Okay, really I have 2 this month, but that's so not the point!) I also love Burger King, Arby's, and spending the day with my husband...since he didn't have to work either.

03 Feb - Today I Love

2012-02-03T21:34:00.000-07:00

February 3, 2012

{Today I Love}

I love that all it takes is some hot brownies to make my co-workers think I'm awesome! I love that they were willing to help me eat them...otherwise I'd have to eat them myself. I also love that it was Friday, and the brownies totally made the day better.

(I guess you could say that I also love my co-workers. They're great!)

02 Feb - Today I Love

2012-02-02T22:08:00.001-07:00

February 2, 2012

{Today I Love}

that only part of the power went off in my house...not all of it. I love that our full electricity lasted us at least a year, with really...no problems...until now.

Also, I love that the 3 cats that hang outside our door and meow like crazy haven't died under my house.

(don't ask...i'm super ornery today, and this is all I could think of!)

01 Feb - Today I Love

2012-02-01T21:50:00.001-07:00

With it being the month of love...why not blog about it. I've been having a tough time finding joy in life lately, so I decided to think of something that I love from each day this month...And I have to admit, it's already been tough to come up with something after a long LONG day! But without further ado...

February 1, 2012

{Today I Love}

that I totally rocked my first time play Just Dance on the Wii. (We had a Just Dance party for mutual). Sure I sucked the other 2 times, but I beat the other girls who HAVE played it before.

(also I love that my teammates got super excited with me when I did win!)

wanna know a secret?

2012-01-25T21:47:00.000-07:00

I have a ton to catch up on...

I also need to fix the front pictures of my blog...
They're not mine. Came as part of the design.

I need to spend less time on my kindle...
more time getting things done...

I really want to work out more...
just have zero motivation...not even getting fat is motivation.

I crave chocolate and French fries...
All day...everyday...

I think I'm going to have a heart attack from all the salt I eat...
Seriously...

I'm kinds afraid when my fingers go numb (another adventure)...
They might not ever get their feeling back...

I feel tired...and don't want to sleep...but sleep way more than I should...

I think that if I tell myself only five more months of working...
It'll eventually be true...

I'm always ready for later to be here...
Wasted too much time with that...

I don't know how much of that was "secret"...
but I'm tire and trying to avoid sleep...

Also not sure if it makes sense...
But it makes sense to me and that's all that matters.

Wanna know something lame?

2011-12-01T22:23:00.000-07:00

It's December 1, and our Christmas tree still isn't up yet.

Wanna know something even more lame??
I almost kinda don't want to even put it up.

I know...

I'm lame...

it's been one of those weeks...

Top 10...

2011-11-29T08:53:00.000-07:00

...things I'm grateful for this Thanksgiving season
(in no particular order)

1. My job...
   even though I complain about it ~~a lot~~ every now and then...I do
   have a decent job. It earns me an income, plus, I have learned a
   lot of things being at it (besides the typical tellering-ish jobs)

   I've learned: how NOT to act when I go into a bank/store/restaurant, etc.
   When I overdraft my account 99.9% of the time, I deserve those fees!
   Cell phones really are annoying...turn then off when you're in a public area
   Plus a million other things that really I could write a book about!

   I love my job!

2. My husband...
   who knows me better than I know myself, I think. He'll take me
   to get McDonald's fries, knows what foods I like, does pretty much
   anything for me, makes me lunch (and often dinner) every day, is
   patient with me, honors his priesthood, does a great job in his calling,
   and just pretty much rocks!

3. A healthy body...
   that, if I pushed myself, could probably do just about anything. (i'd just
   have to make sure I was in shape to do it! ;) I'm grateful that it can
   get me to where I need it do. Grateful that it can get me through a
   hectic workday where I sometimes am constantly on the move.

4. Digital scrapbooking...
   It's a great escape from my daily cares. A good way to unwind. Too
   bad it can do a number on my pay-pal account...

5. Photography...
   I haven't done a lot for other people, but I'm okay with that. I'm at
   at a time in my life where I don't have a lot of time for it, but I am
   grateful for the shoots that I have been able to do. Plus, I love that
   I can take less than 30 seconds to capture a moment that I'm not wanting
   to forget.

6. My Young Women's calling...
   So what if I complain a little about this. I won't go into details on this
   one, but it has been a somewhat difficult calling. I've had to deal
   with stuff I don't want to deal with and it's been frustrating, but at
   the same time, I've learned a lot of patience. I think that's probably
   why I was put into this calling for a second round...

7. Two running vehicles...
   ...the end....

8. Great family...
   I recently was able to spend some time playing vball with my little
   sis, who was always too young to ever be on any sports teams with
   me, so it was a lot of fun to be able to play with her and win a
   rec league championship. Yeah...that pretty much tops our careers! ;)
   Also, great in-laws who allow me to take vacations with them, and
   who are pretty much awesome!

9. My Savior Jesus Christ...
   who suffered for my sins, allowing me to repent and someday return
   to live with Him. Who shows unconditional love, and who will
   always be there when I need Him.

10. A nice warm house...
   one that would never make it through a Wyoming winter, but
   protects Greg and I through the random non-wintery winters that
   Utah produces.

Thanksgiving

2011-11-20T19:47:00.000-07:00

This years has gone by so fast! I can't believe it's already Thanksgiving? Where has November gone? I had a blast last week in Virginia, and can't wait to post pictures of my trip, but just had to get my blog all Thanksgiving-y and so of course I had to post about how I can't wait for Thanksgiving...

Mostly can't wait to not work on Thursday and pig out! Yeah...I'm excited...plus it means one holiday closer to CHRISTMAS! (my fave)

And that's about all for now. I have a million things to get caught up on from last week! So in case I don't post before then...Happy Thanksgiving!

What I want for Christmas...

2011-10-27T09:22:00.000-06:00

Yes. Christmas already! It's less than 2 months away, so you really need to start thinking about what to get me.

After a lot of thought on this subject, I've decided there are 3 main things I'd like (okay, actually 4)

1 -- HOMEMADE Salsa (Not store bought stuff...I want this stuff homemade...by you!)

2 -- HOMEMADE jerky (Don't know why...been kind craving this a lot lately)

3 -- A trip to Washington DC -- Always wanted to go there, and I'm in need of a VACAY!

4 -- A super cute purse/camera bag...one like {this} or {this} but I think I'm going to have to settle for making my own since I need it soon (and don't want to pay 100+ for it..though I do love it!

Mmkay, so really I'm getting one of those already...so you get to give me the rest! Just sayin.

(and yeah, I know this is another totally lame post. I have 0 hours to do stuff, I swear!)

so busy...

2011-10-09T21:08:00.000-06:00

...but not really. Does that make any sense?

I just feel like I'm super busy, but I can't think of anything that I've actually accomplished. I guess being at work the majority of my day can do that to you...make you feel like you don't have any time to accomplish something you really need to do.

Oh well. One of these days I'll be able to update everyone with PICTURES. I have lots of fun pictures from summer - spending time with nieces and nephews (on both sides), and I even have a couple semi-decent photos of Greg and I. woo hoo!

Until then...

Can you believe it's OCTOBER!?!?
Yes, our Halloween lights are up.
Yes, I'm LOVING this cold(er) weather.
Yes, I love when it rains.
Yes, I'm looking forward to snow!

Also...I'm enjoying listening to my iTunes playlist. I had a few songs on my iPod that I normally listen to...but I decided to randomize my entire list of songs...Mariah Carey - Always Be My Baby...Kelly Clarkson - Breakaway....Teddy Geiger - For You I Will...yeah I've missed you!

Anywho...

HaPPy FaLl!!

(sorry...I'm in the middle of editing/scrapping...and these cute little guys were calling my name!)

top 3 from 9.8.11

2011-09-09T18:47:00.001-06:00

1 - NOT getting a parking ticket when I was picking up my sister. Yes, I was inside for about 10 minutes, but we timed it perfectly by walking out as miss parking attendant lady was getting ready to ticket me. I just smiled at her as I walked up, figuring if I did get a ticket, I'd at least make her day by not yelling at her. She said she'd let me off this time, so I continued to chat her up and ended with a thank you. Totally awesome. Thanks lady!

2 - Playing volleyball, and totally kicking butt. Sure we're playing against teams where 89% haven't really played before, but there were only 4 on my team, and we did awesome! And I got to play with my sis who I've never played with before. We were amazing. I even got a couple of nice bruises, and I'm sore and out of shaped (despite consistently working out.)

3 - When I went to drop my sis off at her dorm, we were finishing up our conversation when some random girl opened the back door and started to get in. Kenz and I just kind of stopped talking and turned to look at her. She was on the phone, and suddenly looked up and said, "This isn't the right car." Nope hun, it's not, but thanks for the laugh!

Great night...

FBI Fraud Alert

2011-09-07T21:20:00.002-06:00

"Well I just wanna take a minute to talk to you all about something very serious. Once every hour, someone is involved in an internet scam. That man is Michael Scott. He's supporting about twenty Nigerian princesses." - Pam Beesly

"Hey, you know what? Forgive me for caring." - Michael Scott

So...I've been meaning to post this for a while now, but never got around to it....now I wish I had.

But, working at a credit union, you get to see a lot. Fraud especially. We've had quite a few problems with fraud lately, so my manager printed this out and posted it around the CU for our members to see. I just thought I'd share it with you.

IF YOU CAN ANSWER "YES" TO ANY OF THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS, YOU COULD BE INVOLVED IN A FRAUD OUR ABOUT TO BE SCAMMED!

*Is the CHECK from an item you sold on the internet?

*Is the amount of the CHECK more than the item's selling price?

*Did you receive the CHECK via an overnight delivery service?

*Is the CHECK connected to communicating with someone by email?

*Is the CHECK drawn on a business or individual account that is different from the person buying your item or product?

*Have you been informed that you were the winner of a LOTTERY, such as Canadian, Australian, El Gordo, or El Mundo, that yo u did not enter?

*Have you been instructed to either "WIRE", "SEND" OR "SHIP" MONEY, as soon as possible, to a large US city or to another country, such as Canada, England, or Nigeria?

*Are you receiving PAY or a COMMISSION for facilitating money transfers through your account?

*Did you respond to an email requesting you to CONFIRM, UPDATE, OR PROVIDE your account information?

TELL BRANCH PERSONNEL IMMEDIATELY!
---------------------------
In my time at the CU, I have learned that THE BIGGEST tip-off for whether it's a scam or not is if they ask you to send money back. A lot of times they even tell you to "cash the check as soon as possible." So you deposit the check, withdraw the money to send back, and the check gets returned. You're out the entire amount of the check. It's not a fun situation. But if anyone brings in larger checks and says they're not something they usually get, we always ask, "Are you sending them money back?" If the answer is yes. It's most likely a scam.

Another thing, the people who are emailing you are usually VERY persistent. A lot of times their english and grammar is really bad too. If the email doesn't make sense and has a lot of spelling errors...good chance it's fraud.

Be careful of "secret shopper" jobs. Those are pretty big ones. And be careful selling things online. Even with paypal...if they want you to send money back...don't do it!

Lately the checks that are fraud have been ones that are drawn off of real institutions. The ones in the past that I've seen have been money orders, but the two most recent ones we've seen at the CU have looked like real cashier's checks. That's what makes it so hard. If you know it's a legit bank...how could it be fraud, right? Just keep in mind...if they ask you to send money back, no matter how legit the check looks...it's most likely fraud.

If you have ANY questions or even feel a little off about the situation....ask someone at your financial institution. Let them know what's going on, bring in emails, etc. Just be careful. Now, unfortunately, once you fall for a scam, there really isn't a whole lot you can do, so the best you can do is ask questions if you feel funny about the situation.

Anyway...this is random, but I just see so much working where I do. I have actually taken a fraudulent check. (My own stupidity. I didn't ask where it came from...which I definitely should have...) but it happens, and it is so frustrating for the person it happens to. Please please PLEASE be careful, and if you have ANY doubt, either don't do it, or ask someone at your financial institution.

You may be thinking, "who would ever fall for something like that?" But let's face it, if I hadn't given you these tips...and if you were in that situation...you might fall for it. I admit that if I didn't work where I do, and hadn't seen first hand the kind of fraud that's out there...I probably would have fallen for something myself. It really is a tough situation, and i feel for anyone who has been on the other end.

Anyway....I hope this helps someone out there! ;) and sorry I didn't share it earlier.... :(

"You know what...when the son of the deposed king of Nigeria emails you directly, asking for help, you help! His father ran the freaking country! Ok?" - Michael Scott

it's amazing...

2011-09-05T21:38:00.000-06:00

...what 6 years of marriage can do to a couple.

I know I've mentioned this before, but there are so

many times that Greg and I think the

EXACT SAME THING.

It's kind of creepy to be honest with ya.

But I can't even name all the times Greg has

said something, and I've said,

"I was just thinking that."

Now this is random, but here's what brings

this up.

Saturday Greg told me I had to decide on

what to eat for lunch. Since it was Fast Sunday

I told him I wanted something that would

more more filling than greasy fast food...

so we went with Cafe Rio. We got it to

go, and though I thought we were going

home...instead we went to McDonald's

to get french fries! I swear, this guy knows

what I'm thinking at all times!

Like I said...creepy....but I do love him!

best weekend....

2011-08-21T22:30:00.000-06:00

EVER....

or at least best weekend had in a LOOOONG time!

Let's just say having one Saturday off a month kinda
sucks...and even then Greg has to work still....but not
this weekend!

Greg took Saturday off...and we had fun...

Not that we did anything exciting (we really didn't!)

Didn't even hit up the Willow Park Zoo, or second
dam. But we did hit up Arby's, made two julius's
in one afternoon, and chilled at home.

I miss weekends like this one...it was pretty much
the best!

lately...

2011-07-24T22:27:00.000-06:00

....brief re-cap of the past few months...

+ celebrated anniversary #6
+ watched my baby sis graduate
+ watch my baby cousin get MARRIED
+ rear-end an Idaho driver because I thought she was going, and i was looking the other way and went...she didn't...(then got yelled at by the old lady passenger for "being on my phone"...for the record, I WAS NOT! It was in my lap and when i got out of the car to check the damage grabbed it)
+ endure the heat of both a semi-working swamp cooled house, and a broken air conditioned car
+ enjoyed some fireworks from the roof of my house
+ turned the big 2-5 (i'm super old now!)
+ work average of 35 hours/week (hired on at 25)
+ joined a Biggest Loser competition (lost 8.2 lbs the first 8 weeks)
+ joined round 2 of the BL comp (week 1 - lost the 1.2 pounds I gained in my week off)
+ been working out 4/7 days (consistently)
+ been WORKING 17/20 days (consistently!)
+ found out I'm the only person in my ward who doesn't do her visiting teaching...well, me and my partner apparently...(I don't know whether I should feel guilty for not doing it...or if I should be proud that I'm the only one who doesn't lie about it...)
+ enjoyed getting shakes from Arctic Circle
+ enjoyed some McDonald's fries and their frozen strawberry lemonades
+ made Greg a Texas Roadhouse fan
+ made AND enjoyed some DELICIOUS strawberry/rhubarb crisp (don't ask how I lost any poundage...I still eat like crap!)
+ found out some good news....found out some bad news
+ done a couple of fun photo shoots
+ hung up some pictures around my house
+ organized a few areas of my house (just a FEW!)
+ got in a bit of digi scrapping
+ spent too much time on my computer
+ didn't take enough pictures

+ and...I'm going to enjoy tomorrow off...and next Saturday-Tuesday off!

2011 CHS Graduation

2011-07-03T17:32:00.002-06:00

holy moly, I feel so old! Not only was my graduation 7 years ago, but this year by BABY SISTER graduated! What the heck! Anyway. It's just crazy to think that she is old enough to graduate, and head out on her own!

I was able to take a few hours of off work on May 25 to head up to her graduation. I went with Britney Petersen (whose little bro was also graduating), and it was fun to be able to make the trip with an old friend from HS. We had plenty of time to catch up and relive our glory days. Thanks Brit for driving!

We made it there just in time. I was able to sit with the fam and let the kiddos crawl all over me, drink my water, drag me to the bathroom, etc. etc. Loads of fun! I should remember more aobut the graduation, but to be honest, I really don't. I think graduations are boring and they could really do without all the speakers and blah blah blahness. (Not saying the speakers were bad, because they weren't...but just skip to the slideshow and presentation of diplomas, and 90% off the audience will be just fine with it!)

Plus, when you have a nearly 5 year old, and two 2.5 year olds. They will do whatever it takes to get out of there. (Such as having to go to the bathroom, so Lilli and Alex and I went off, then Alex played in the toilets and later put his hands in his mom's mouth...good thing I thought to wash them, right Shar?! Then Alex taking off out of the auditorium, and cousin Trev having to go get him.)

Luckily there were maybe 20 graduates, so it didn't take near as long as it could have! But it was fun watching the slideshow. It's really crazy because the pictures they were showing of the graduates back in the day is how I remember them. I remember them being in their awkward glasses, pig tails, lost teeth stages, now they're all grown up! My little sister...I can't say enough about how talented and gorgeous and totally awesome she is! I'm excited to have her go to school down here...it's gonna be so weird!

(this is how old I am...when I graduated, the girls did a music video, and we had some clips with Kenz's class in it..when they were in FIFTH GRADE!!!) Where did time go.

Anyway. It was a good trip, and I'm glad I was able to go to the graduation. Congrats Kenz and the rest of the CHS 2011 Graduation!

Kenz & Kennan...I don't think he's too excited about being the only one left at home!

I don't know what other graduations are like, but after CHS graduation, all the graduates line up out in the commons area, and everyone goes through the line to congratulate them. The middle pic I didn't mean to take right then...haha, sorry Kenny!

The fam...

Me and the Grad...See Kenz, I told you I was taller!!

Here's her grad announcement that I designed.

And that night I just went and chilled with the family while Britney and her family were doing their thing. I just played with the kids briefly before sending them to bed. Lilli had me put her to bed, and she was sleeping in my old bedroom. I had originally put glow in the dark stars on the ceiling, so when we were laying there I told her to look at the stars. She said, "I've always wanted stars in my room." I told her I put them up there, and she said, "For me?" Of course I said yes...It was pretty funny. What a cute kid.

We also watched some of the videos that dad's classes had made. They were pretty funny and it's pretty cool to see the talents of the high schoolers. So much has changed since the start of the CHS movie making business ("Losing Lester"). There are some talented kids. And if you want a good laugh, check out this video that the boys in my dad's class created...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=erG9LaM6ktg

That's all...maybe one of these days I'll keep up with blogging!

slc marathon

2011-05-28T11:26:00.001-06:00

I am super late posting this one.

But, a little over a month ago, my sister Shari and her family made the drive from Omaha-ish area (I don't know for sure where they live) to our end of the world so my brother-in-law Ben could run the SLC half. It was on a Saturday...the only Saturday I had off that month, so I decided I would make the trip down to hang out with them. It was a perfect day for driving. Not too hot, and only a little rain. The worst part was trying to find a place to park. (The finish line was by the Gateway). Anyway, I got down there a little after 9 (i think...it's been so long!) And made my way through the crowds to find Shari and the kids.

I arrive to find the boys strapped in the stroller and Lilli tied to the stroller to keep her from running off. (haha, not really, but Shari must have threatened her because she was actually sitting calmly next to the stroller) Of course when I show up, the first thing I do is release them all from their bonds and let them run wild. Shari was waiting for Ben, so I thought it would be okay for me to let them run around.

Of course the first thing they want to do is go where they're not supposed to. Don't worry. we caught Aidan before he made it too far into the lane of traffic.

Alex was a little grump-o-la! (if you can't tell) He wanted to run around like a maniac, so of course I let him.

The drama queen herself insisted on having the umbrella, even though it wasn't raining, and kept smacking everyone around her with it. You'd never guess where her younger brothers get their attitude from...never...

I was there for maybe 20 minutes before we spotted Ben. So we all cheered him on as he came down the last stretch before rounding the bend to the finish line. I have to admit. Watching all those people running (old and young, fat and thin, fast and slow) kinda almost motivated me to do a half (or at least a 5K). I just need to find someone to wear matching running gear with me and either tutus or colorful wigs. But it was still pretty cool to be a part of that and to hear all the cheers for these people they didn't even know. Very motivational!

While we waited for Ben to find us, the kids took me on an adventure. They climbed rocks, ran on fake grass, started yanking on the chains that are supposed to be "keep out" markers, and almost got in trouble by the security guards. Good thing when I spotted the security dudes I acted responsible and said, "NO! get back here!" then when their backs were turned let them do it again.

Ben got back and brought with him some creamies and other treats and goodies. The kids loved the creamies, and made huge messes. The saddest part of the day was when Alex's fell off the stick. It was picture perfect. You see it all the time on TV, but it's even better when it happens in person. He of course started crying, and I had to try not to laugh...especially when he tried to eat it off the ground. Don't worry. it was totally sanitary!

After cheering runners on for a little while longer, we decided to head back to the hotel. Lilli and I brought up the rear of the group and she kept me pretty entertained with her, "and this my friend..." stories. I learned that dandelions turn into sunflowers, and Jesus owns some parking lot in SLC.

The course runs right by the entrance of the hotel, so we stopped out front to cheer on some more runners (we were actually watching for some of Shari & Ben's friends from Georgia who were also running the race.) There was some music playing on some big speakers, and I look over to see Alex with his ears plugged. I don't know if it was too loud, or if he just didn't like the music. Either was it was pretty cute.

Inside we chilled in the room while Ben showered and got ready to go out to eat. The boys ran around and were crazy while Shari cleaned up their stuff. Lilli was content to watch her weird cartoons and draw me pictures, while Alex found the one button on the alarm. It was pretty funny. He was just messing around and all of a sudden some loud Spanish music came on. He jumped and looked at us and then started laughing. He thought it was pretty funny. Let's face it. It was! Alex had laid down with his blanky, but once Alex got bored with the alarm, Aidan decided it was his turn.

Once that got old, they decided it would be funny to attack me. Aidan is a lot nicer, but Alex can be brutal. He would pinch my cheeks and my nose and my eyes, so i would pinch his back. He thought it was so funny, and got me pretty good a couple of times. He's a funny kid!

Aidan wouldn't sit still for me to get a picture of us. I'm surprised I got Alex!

Once Ben was ready we headed over to Rodizio Grill, and boy oh boy was that delicious. The last time I had been there was after Shari and Ben got married. A lot pricey, but super delicious! I even tried chicken something (i want to say heart, but now my mind is blank) Some random body organ, and it was kinda gross. But I did try it! Anyway, thanks Shari and Ben for treating.

After lunch, I took Lilli to the bathroom where she spent about 10 minutes telling me story after story (while she was in there) about all the pets she wanted. (a dog that was brown and could talk just like scooby doo!) Quite entertaining.

When that was done...the kids were a bit restless after sitting pretty still for about 30 minutes, so we went out front where there was a fountain. I gave them all the change I had in my wallet so they could throw them in the fountain. When I ran out they started picking up rocks, twigs, grass, cigarette butts, etc. etc. to throw in. Don't worry...the fountain wasn't clean to begin with...right...It was pretty funny. The kids were able to release a lot of energy while I did my best to keep them from falling it. (Though I have to say it would have been quite funny if they had...and to be honest...the kids probably wouldn't have minded too much!)

totally funny if he had fallen in, right? (I can't remember if it is Alex or Aidan...haha...but funny either way!)

Don't worry...she didn't drink the dirty fountain water out of that straw she found on the ground...okay, she totally did!

And then we ended the day running through the bushes.

All in all it was a super fun day, and I retained my status as the favorite aunt! Thanks for letting me hang out with you guys! Love you!

hair cut

2011-05-26T21:28:00.000-06:00

yeah. it's only been over a month since i cut my hair, and i am just now posting...oh well.

when i was in hs i was constantly changing my hair. i love(d) getting my hair dyed (thanks linds!) and trying new cuts. since I got married i've probably only done my hair maybe 5 or 6 times in the past 6 years. i just can't justify spending 50-60 bucks to have my hair done. maybe when greg and i make our millions i can do that, but not now.

anyway. I've been wanting to have my hair chopped for a while now. i have had long hair for a long time, i think it's been like 2 years since my MAJOR hair cut. and i wanted a change. I wanted to do my hair like Katy Perry's in her firework video, but again...to have my hair dyed would cost more than i wanted to spend, so i decided last minute to chop it. I went to Leilani's salon and the girl that cut my hair was a doll. I really liked her, and would definitely go to her again.

So i chopped it to above my shoulders. I liked it at the beginning, but now i'm wanting it either shorter, or longer...it's in that in between stage that I don't love, but it has been fun to have this change. Oh, and i have to say that I dyed my own hair. it was super dark at first, but has lightened up a little and I kinda like it.

Here are some before and after pictures. Ignore the quality...I was in a hurry and just used my little point and shoot.

Moose

2011-05-10T18:44:00.002-06:00

So I mentioned in my last post that Greg and I went to Star Valley a few weeks ago. While we were there, not only was there a TON of snow...but we also got to see some moose. Only in Wyoming can you see some moose in your "backyard". (Okay, I'm sure there are other places...but for the sake of this post, I'm saying only in Wyoming!)

From the porch...you can barely see them, but they are there...

We got in the car and followed them to the neighbors where they stopped to get some food.

And just cuz...

changes...

2011-04-11T21:27:00.001-06:00

...i decided i was in need of a change, so i chopped my hair.

but, i'm too lazy to post pictures, so you'll have to wait to see it.

but hopefully it will bring on a few other changes.

i don't know what they are, or what they will be, but

i do plan on having/making some changes other than just physical ones.

(even though hair is the EASIEST one for change)

anywho. just thought I'd share! the end!

(and because I thought this was cute...and it's kinda springy outside...)

{courtesy SuzyQ Scraps} - love her!

April...

2011-04-06T19:48:00.001-06:00

Wow! It's already April! That means 3 months have already gone by, and we're onto #4. Crazy Crazy!

I must say that April is probably one of my least favorite months. I don't know why, I mean, I guess it could have to do with the fact that it starts out with a day called April Fool's Day. LAME-O. I debated this year whether I should do the "I'm pregnant" or "I'm having triplets" prank. But 20 other people did it, so I decided not to. (That's a joke...in case you're wondering. I never even thought about doing that). It's amazing to me though how many people actually fall for that.

Or maybe it could be the weather. I wish it would make up it's mind and just rain already! Sometimes it does, but most times it doesn't. Don't really know what's up with it.

Maybe it's kinda the midway point between winter and summer, and i just want it to get to summer already.

who knows. I'm just not a fan.

But things here are still pretty good. Greg and I were able to go to Star Valley a week or so ago. Got to see some baby moose with mouse-staches...or were the mice with moose-staches...guess you'd have to be me or greg to get that joke. But it was still a nice relaxing weekend.

Greg is finishing up his spring semester of school with a massive 5 billion page project. He loves it, really it's his favorite.

I have been at my job at Deseret First Credit Union for almost a year now...(april 26)...and it's been great. I learn a lot about people that I really don't want/need to know, but i have also met some great people and had some great experience. And I've learned that interest rates are FABULOUS right now, so if you're looking to re-finance either a vehicle, or house....let me know and I can give you some info. They really are awesome, and now is a fabulous time to think about purchasing or re-finance (from another institution, lol)...But seriously, let me know if you are thinking about it, really, email or call me, and I can give you more info. (haha...okay, I'm done, but seriously..let me know!!)

And I think that's all. I get to work all day tomorrow, friday, and monday, so my next paycheck should rock, and I guarantee I'll be exhausted! But what can ya do? Anywho...that's my April for ya!

life lately

2011-03-22T20:36:00.001-06:00

Haven't been up to a whole lot lately.

Work is, well, work. It's been a crazy couple of days, a couple that i hope not to repeat anytime soon. Here's hoping tomorrow is a little better.

I've been slacking on my working out, but hopefully that will change SOON (Mel?)

Can't wait for this weekend. I have Saturday AND Sunday off...plus Monday AND Tuesday! I work 2 Saturdays on, 1 off, so I appreciate any Saturdays I get off, plus a couple of days.

Our pipes are totally broken. Luckily the important one that broke SUNDAY was able to be "fixed." The others...well, let's just say our lawn might not ever get watered this summer.

I woke up today thinking it was Thursday...realized it wasn't, then kinda freaked because I thought it was Wednesday...and I had treats for our morning meeting at work.

The weather is wigging me out. (If that expression even works!) Not gonna lie, I really wish it would just rain (or snow) all day every day! (okay more rain for the all-day-every-day)...but still.

I think that's about it.

CHS Lady Panthers

2011-03-14T18:50:00.000-06:00

A couple of weeks ago I took a couple hours of work off so I could go to Cokeville to watch my little sister play basketball. Now, I'm a pretty darn good sister, (I know!) but I haven't seen her play since she was in 6th grade, so I wanted to watch her at least one more time before she heads off into the big world. It was senior night, so it was fun to watch all those "little" girls honored. It was a fun game, and Kenz played really well. Gotta say, I was pretty impressed! ;) There were even some people (namely her brother-in-law Clay) calling her "Jimmer". It was pretty entertaining. They also won, so that's always fun too. Way to go Kenz!

I do have to say, though, I was pretty unimpressed with some of the Cokeville fans. I have quite the opinion when it comes to cheering "for" your team, instead of against the other team. There were some people who were upset with the calls the refs made, and were acting very immaturely. It got to the point they were yelling at the other team's coach who was also upset with some calls. I was so incredibly embarrassed. It is one thing to cheer for your team, but don't EVER yell at the ref, the opposing coach, YOUR team's coach, or any player that is not your child. (I don't think you should even yell at your own child...but I can't control your parenting...so...) I just think people get so involved in sports, they forget how to act. Seriously, you can't control the calls, and you are in no position to make calls, so just keep your mouth shut, and simply cheer FOR your team. (Seriously...I was SO embarrassed, and I wasn't even related to the people...Cokeville people have a reputation, and when people do that, it ruins it.)

Alright...RANT OVER! Here are some pictures I took of the super-star herself.

She's pretty excited about something...and yes...that is my father waving at the camera...(maybe I should be more embarrassed about that! jk dad!)

haha...this picture makes me laugh...think she knows where the ball is?!? lol

And the cute senior girls...can't believe they're graduating!

Oh, and shout-out to them. After placing 2nd at Regional Basketball, the went on to beat Kaycee (who they actually lost to in the volleyball state championship!) for the 1A Wyoming state title! It's been 10 years since the last bball state title (my freshman year...and then it all went downhill!) so it was an exciting win for the girls and for our coaches! Congrats girls!

Happy Valentine's Day & Birthday...

2011-02-22T20:43:00.000-07:00

Not to ever be combined into one day...EVER! (of course!)

So, like any typical Monday, Greg and I had to work on the big love day itself. It's okay, though. We're not really into the whole, "Let's go out to dinner on the busiest night of the year", so we just chilled at home. I honestly can't even remember what we ate, but I'm sure it was delish.

I got Greg a bag of chocolates and a card, and he got me some red and white carnations and some red roses. Very pretty, and now they're dying. Bummer! Too bad they can't last forever! Anyway, I sure do love the man I married. He tests my patience, and I'm sure I test his too...but what can I say? We're married! It really is so interesting how alike we've become over the years. There are SO MANY times when we're doing something and one of us says something and the other says, "I was just thinking that." We're pretty awesome to say the least!

The day after Valentine's Day happens to be Greg's birthday. I got him a baseball computer game and some lemon cupcakes w/ chocolate frosting that I got from Sweet On You Cake Shop. Oh my Goodness! They were DELICIOUS!! If you're looking for some delicious cupcakes...definitely go there! The lady that runs it banks where I work, and yeah, so I'm a little stalkerish, but I wanted to see what she could do so I googled her name, and emailed her. She was awesome! So really, you need to check her out!

Anywho...again, we had to work, so we just relaxed when we got home and ate. Kinda boring, but hey...what can we do? We're pretty much ancient now, so birthdays just aren't as thrilling (mostly because we have to work on them most years!) But yeah. Happy birthday to Greg! What a fantastical couple of days! (then onto working a 10 hour day...and 39.6 hour week!) Good thing my job doesn't suck, or that would not be cool! Anyway, that's all. I will post about the weekend before later.

happy new year!

2011-02-10T21:30:00.001-07:00

I had the wonderful privilege of working New Year's Eve. Yay me! Though, it was okay because I got paid for the hours I actually worked, plus pay for an additional day. So that was positive. After work, Greg and I got to pick up some new tires for our car, and then I headed to Cokeville.

Ben, Shari and the kids were visiting, so of course I had to go see them. I have to say I am pretty much the best aunt ever. Alex and Aidan love wrestling and running around, and Lilli just thinks I'm the coolest (unless their is an iPod touch in the room, then I'm pretty much non-existent.

Not to mention Shari and Ben's dog Syd. Yeah, we became friends real fast...a little TOO fast, and soon I had to yell at him to stay away from me. He had a tendency to get a little close (if ya know what I mean. Yet another reason I despise animals!) It became quite comical actually...(though super annoying!) But seriously, this dog would follow me around the house. Not even lying. I tested it a few times. I would stand up, walk to the kitchen, and sure enough, the dog would follow. Then...I'd walk around the island, and the dog would follow. Seriously! If I wasn't paying attention he would come to me and start doing...umm..stuff..to my leg. Stupid dog! Not cool!

But anyway...it really was a lot of fun. I love those kids. It's so crazy to see how big the boys are getting. There were a couple of times Shari had to remind me that they weren't babies anymore. (like when I asked if they could have drinks in a cup...last I knew they were on bottles!) But they are cute as ever, and I love them lots. It was good to spend some time with them. Here are some pictures from the weekend.

Aidan

Alex

Miss Attitude

And a cute one of me and Aidan

Happy New Year!

didn't get the memo

2011-02-04T21:36:00.001-07:00

I show up to work...

Donna is wearing red and black...

Karen is wearing red and black...

Steve is wearing red and black...

{me} is wearing purple and black...
(ignore the grammar)

Courtney shows up at 12:30...

she's wearing red and black {shoes}...
(it counts)

guess i didn't get the memo...

(kinda funny really!) I like being different!

oh, and p.s.

{I DON'T WORK TOMORROW}

uhh, yeah, i'm special!

2011-01-31T19:08:00.001-07:00

I got a call today at work

Me: "Place I work, this is Breanne, how may I help you?"
(I didn't really say place I work...just for the record!)

Dude on the line: "Can I please speak with ________."
(name kinda mumbled and said really fast)

Me: "I'm sorry, who?"

Dude: "_____________"
(repeats the name in a somewhat mumbled manner)

Me: "Sorry, does he work here?"

Dude: "Yeah, he's the CEO."

.......uhhh....whooops!!!! lol...

but in my defense...I DO know who our CEO is..

the name he said was similar, but not the name of the CEO (or at least the name I know him by.)

and really, most people who call the Logan branch don't ask for the CEO!

Let's just hope he didn't pass the message along...lol...

you know when...

2011-01-28T21:41:00.002-07:00

...people are just ripping into you about something

and you are super nice and apologetic that you can't make things different...

and they keep going...and then stop and say, "I'm not mad at you. I know it's not your fault."

.......

do you ever want to yell back, "then why are you yelling at ME!"

.......

yeah...it was one of those days!!
(good thing my co-workers rock and have my back!)

somedays...

2011-01-27T22:40:00.001-07:00

i kinda wanna go here...

love me some beach!

Made my day...

2011-01-26T20:44:00.000-07:00

A couple came in to the credit union today to close a loan.

They brought their little girl, no more than 4 years old.

While her parents were with the loan officer (Steve, who ROCKS btw!)...

This little girl was sitting on some chairs we have set out,

reading her book, and...

SINGING at the top of her lungs!!!

She didn't care who was in there, or who was listening.

Totally cute, and totally made my day.

Christmas 2010

2011-01-20T22:31:00.005-07:00

Yes, it's finally time for my Christmas post...kinda...

So, due to the fact that I have a real job now, I don't get a lot of time off around the holidays, but I did ask for the 20th off so Greg and I could go get our car (FINALLY) from Star Valley that weekend before. This car has been a headache since the beginning! Dang you dishonest people! (a story for another day...if I ever simmer down enough to talk about it!) Anyway, it was a nice relaxing weekend. I love going up there, and the fact that it was beautiful covered in snow made it all the better. I have such a hard time thinking of things to get Greg for Christmas, so Sunday evening when we were getting ready for bed I had a thought, so the next day I took my camera out and took a bunch of pictures of the land up there, because I know how much Greg loves it up there. Anyway, so I had them printed on shiny paper and framed them. I really like them...lol, he doesn't really get into the excitement of everything, so I don't actually know if he likes them or not, but they are up on our wall anyway...lol..

Anywho...here are a few of the pictures that I love....

Christmas was awesome. I got Christmas Eve, Christmas day, and the day after off, so that was great. Christmas Eve we spent doing some last minute shopping, then spent our evening playing XBox. Super fun! Christmas day was pretty great too. We played a lot of Xbox, ate a delicious ham dinner, and opened presents throughout the day. He got me some clothes that I love! (thanks Shaina for helping him!)

a foot massager (which is totally awesome after work!)
and the movie Charlie St. CloudHe also let me get the 6th book of the Vampire Academy series. (LOVE IT!!!!! Read it 2X already!!) and a few other random things. Then he took me shopping after Christmas so I could pick some stuff out for myself, and I got some super cute jeans and a few shirts.

Ben and Shari gave us some gift cards to go to the movies, and cafe rio, we got pajamas from Greg's parents, a Scentsy warmer and some desserts from Shaina, and my parents gave me some boots and Greg a hoodie.

I got Greg a bunch of just random things (He really is SO difficult to shop for!) and some Xbox games, and some shirts and the pictures.

Our car was the most spoiled (as we spent the most money on it!). We got it 2 new tires, and a new ignition! Lucky car.

Anywho, of course I didn't take pictures, but it was a wonderful Christmas, and I loved the time I was able to spend with my hubby! We don't get enough of it as of late.

Hope you all had a fabulous Christmas as well!

Cutest Movie EVER!

2011-01-20T20:21:00.001-07:00

So, I'm still playing catch-up...I'll get there...

So, Greg and I waited a while before putting up our Christmas lights....(like really....a long time! It was well into November!) but when we finally decided to put them up, it took like 3 hours!! FOREVER! But they look totally awesome, and I love them and yes they are still up (just outside). But I didn't take pictures, so too bad for you!

Anyway, the night we put them up Shaina texted me and asked if I wanted to go to a movie with her. I'm always up for movies, especially chick flicks that Greg won't take me to, so we decided to watch "Life As We Know It." and I must say, it is the cutest movie EVER! seriously...so cute! Not only is the dude in it totally cute, but it also has Steve Nash, and was filmed in Atlanta, and I totally called it! (one of the shots of the houses reminded me of the street one of Shari's friends lived on in GA, and I thought, mhmm...that looks like Georgia!) Yeah, I was totally right! But it's super cute, and I can't wait for it to come out on video.

Seriously....love it!

Work Christmas Party

2011-01-09T19:22:00.003-07:00

So, I've never actually been at a job where we had "work parties." So now that I'm at a place where there is a total of 9 employees, this was an interesting experience. We went out to dinner then to a play afterwards.

Now, I'm not gonna lie, I really wasn't too excited about this. Greg wasn't able to come (because of school, but let's be honest, even if he didn't have school, he probably wouldn't have come! lol!) Plus there were some things that went on during the week leading up to this evening that were rather interesting, and needless to say, this was not how I wanted to spend my evening. (hopefully no one I work with reads my blog...haha, but if they do, they probably know what I'm talking about, so it's all good!) ANYWHO...luckily Courtney and her boyfriend let me bum along with them, so that was nice.

I was actually pleasantly surprised with how the night ended up. Dinner was really yummy, and not as awkward as I expected it to be. (PS, for the record, I really do like all of my co-workers! It was just an interesting week!) And the play was really good too. It was put on up at the University, and it was put on by Pickleville Playhouse called Santa's Elves. It really was super cute and I found myself chuckling a little. Until the end when they threw in an odd twist (only in Utah....we'll leave it at that!) But really cute. Had I thought to blog about this earlier, I'd totally suggest that you go to it, but they are writing a new one for next year, so that's a bummer. But it probably could be just as good.

Anyway, that's all. It wasn't at all like the work parties you see on TV...hehe..no one got drunk...that I know of!

Thanksgiving 2010

2011-01-08T18:06:00.003-07:00

So, I'm totally late posting this, I know. But really, better late than never, right?

I totally love this time of year. I love November-December, almost as much as I love July. One of the reasons I love this time of year is all the days I get off for work. I get 2 days in November, and THREE in december. Totally awesome, right?

The week of Thanksgiving, however, seemed to drag on. Tuesday there was supposed to be a massive snowstorm come through. UDOT wanted business to close down early so their employees could get home, but to better serve our members, our bosses decided it was okay for us to stay at work. It was kind of an interesting day, because there were blue skies for a little while, then it kind of clouded over. Nothing major, so I went on my lunch around 3, and when I got back to work, it was just kinda flurrying. It was honestly crazy to see the change in that storm. As soon as the wind changed, it really was a blizzard. Kinda cool. It's been a while since I've seen anything like that.

The higher ups decided we could have people leave every half hour, and Courtney and I being the dedicated employees we are, got to stay til the very end...for that one member who just might come through. Oh joys. It really was pretty bad, but being from Wyoming...I've seen worse! It was pretty great...until we had to work again the next day...oh well!

Thanksgiving day was pretty good though. It was just Greg, me and Shaina this year. (Shaina wasn't able to go home, so she spent the day with us.) We had some super delicious food (like always!) and totally pigged out. I do wish, however, that I would have eaten more turkey, because cold/reheated turkey makes me gag, and it was a super delicious turkey. We had turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, rolls, yams MSUHROOMS (i'm obsessed! So delicious!), rolls, jello, cranberry sauce, shrimp (cold), and 7-up. And Shaina brought that yummy breadsticks/bacon stuff and a lemon pudding/dessert type thing (sorry I don't know it's official name! )

Oh yes it was delicious! We spent the day just lounging around, watched some football, did a little shopping, and then watched some movies. We watch "The Lovely Bones" first (which Greg likes, but I really don't. I read the book a long time ago, and really didn't like it). Greg and I had seen it before, but Shaina hadn't, so we watched it with her. Then Shaina and I chose to watch "The Last Song" while Greg opted out. Umm, yeah. I totally loved this movie!! Sure Miley Cyrus is kinda ugly, but I thought it was such a cute movie! Dang that Nicholas Sparks! He always has to have someone in the movie get an uncureable disease and die! (Sorry if I just ruined this for you!) But I loved it...and I want a grand piano. Just so you know!

So that was our Thanksgiving. It was wonderful, and a lot of fun to spend a day just relaxing...of course, then it was back to the grind the next day! Gotta love being a responsible adult!

The Pajama Game

2010-12-28T10:30:00.005-07:00

Back in November, I was able to get a little time off work to go watch McKenzie in the high school musical back in Cokeville. She had a lead role, so I wanted to watch her. I had always known that she could sing/act. I remember when she was little, she had a solo in a "Sunshine" (is that what it was called, lol) performance. Holy wow, that tiny thing could belt it. Brady and I sat on the front row screaming for her (even though we weren't supposed to!) But it was a lot of fun, and i was excited to see the performance.

I have never seen/heard of the Pajama Game, but really, how many of the musicals the high school has put on have I actually seen? I was in 3 musicals when I was in HS, and it was always fun times. My senior year of "Annie Get Your Gun" was the best, and like I said, super fun, so I knew that even if the play itself was lame, it would still be fun. And it was.

Kenz played the role of Babe, and Beau Petersen played the lead across from her. They both did a great job, and fed really well off each other. Both could sing, and both could act, and it was a lot of fun! It was fun seeing all the kids who were still in Elementary all grown up. I didn't recognize a few of them, but it was still fun.

Kenz really did a great job. She is so incredibly talented it's not fair! ;) She can sing and act, and really the only thing she can't do is walk in high heels! (haha, jk Kenz!)

Here are a few pictures I took. I was too into the play to really take a lot..lol, super cute costumes and wigs all around, right?
Beau and Kenz....
The entire CHS student body....almost!

Like I said, they fed really well off each other. It was cute to watch. This song was the cutest of the night (well, the first time they sang it...but this was still cute.) See THIS Youtube video of the original song...Kenz and Beau were a lot better, I thought..lol

And sorry to post this picture Kenz, but I think it's so cute! You're a babe!!

It was a lot of fun watching her and seeing how grown up she is! i can't believe it, but she's amazing, and I love her lots! Great job Kenz!

And on the way home, the roads were pretty crappy, but when I got around the lake, it was actually really pretty, so I thought I'd stop and take a picture.

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 30

2010-11-30T22:05:00.000-07:00

Hooray! I'm done! lol...but on this last day of this seemingly endless project, I am grateful for...

LauGhtEr!

Whether at home, or at the workplace, laughter really is the best medicine. I love hearing people laugh, and I love laughing myself. Nothing beats having a good, long laugh, especially with those you love...

So, go have a good laugh with your loved ones...do it...I dare you! ;)

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 29

2010-11-29T22:02:00.000-07:00

Late night cookies with Greg...

Yes, this could be one reason I have gained so much weight, but Greg likes to tempt me with chocolate chip cookies of all sorts late at night, with a glass of milk. I won't tell you how much we eat, because it's a bit embarassing, but after a long day of work...it's nice to relax with my hubby and pig out on junk food!

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 28

2010-11-28T21:57:00.000-07:00

a husband who will eat leftovers!

I do NOT like leftovers. I really don't. There are very few things that I will eat re-heated (lasagna...that's about it! lol) so when you have a HUGE Thanksgiving feast all to yourselves (and a sister in law who doesn't eat hardly anything) you end up with a TON of leftovers. Oh I guess I will re-heat stuffing too. But Turkey?!? BLEH!! NASTY! I do NOT like it cold or re-heated, so I am grateful that I have a wonderful hubby who will eat just about anything...(He really does. sometimes I wonder how long something has been in the fridge...he'll just eat it!) But he makes ME feel just a LITTLE less guilty wasting so much food!

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 27

2010-11-27T21:54:00.000-07:00

Good Movies!!

I have a few favorite movies, and I am grateful for Saturday and Sunday nights, which usually mean cuddling up with Greg on the couch watching a new movie.

I often tease Greg about our Hastings shopping habits. We go there at least once a week, sometimes twice, and we almost ALWAYS come out with new movieS. Yes, that is plural, since we always get used movies, and they usually have a BOGO for $1 sales. But we have found some really good movies that way, and some not-so-good ones, but it's still nice to have a huge movie selection, even though a lot of the movies we don't watch more than once...lol, maybe one day when we don't have a Hastings to visit, we'll double up on some movies.

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 26

2010-11-26T21:52:00.000-07:00

BlAck FrIdaY!!

I think everyone should experience working retail on Black Friday at least once in their life. It is so entertaining, and though I am glad I don't work retail on this day, I still have some pretty funny memories of working on this day.

I don't think I ever want to do the early morning shopping on this day, however. I'd rather sleep in, or order stuff online than try to beat the crowds. But it is still entertaining watching people, and seeing all the lines. Plus there are some pretty sweet sales...if you want to risk your life to get them!

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 25

2010-11-25T21:50:00.000-07:00

ThaNksGivinG!!!

What a wonderful time of year. I love Thanksgiving, and I love Christmas. Even though we should be grateful all year round, it's great to have a day set aside for us to sit back and reflect on those people and things we're grateful for.

Today, I'm especially grateful for a wonderful husband, a warm house, electricity, NFL football, super delicious food, and great family and friends. All these things make a day like today wonderful, and I couldn't be more happy!

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 24

2010-11-24T20:30:00.000-07:00

dIgiTaL ScRapBooKinG!

Seriously...Love...It! I am sooo glad I finally decided to get into it. Even though it takes up a lot of my time (because I'm obsessed!) I love it! I love how creative people are out there, and I'm grateful that I am able to enhance my talents.

Why does it rock?!?

1 - NO CLEAN-UP! Seriously, I have about 500 kits, and guess what, they don't take up my entire living room. They DO take up a few GB of space on my hard drive, but that's nothing. I don't have any huge messes to clean up, and it's awesome!

2 - CHEAPER! You can purchase an entire "kit" (10+papers, a ton of elements) for less than $10, when a pack of paper is often more than that. I have many favorite designers, and they fill the kits full of goodies. Plus, a lot of times they have sales, or you can get freebies, or coupons. Super awesome.

3 - RE-USABLE! With those kits, you can use each of the papers and/or elements as much as you want! Use the same paper 500 times if you want, use the same cute teddy bear element 20 times on just one page! It is so great.

4 - UN-DO! CTRL-Z! Whatever you want to call it. Accidentally put a "sticker" in the wrong spot. CTRL Z and it's undone! The best part of it!

Do I have you convinced yet? lol, I seriously love this, and I'm grateful for this talent. I am more than willing to help you if you have any digi scrapping questions, or want to get started. So just let me know! Seriously..love...it!

Here is a gallery of some pages I've done.

http://www.digishoptalk.com/gallery/showgallery.php?ppuser=19850&username=bta-designs

I do it mostly for the "artistic" part than for the memory keeping part, but whatever your reasons, I think you'll love it too!

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 23

2010-11-23T20:24:00.000-07:00

AwEsoMe snOwstOrMs...

that cause people to shut down and go home early...even though my place of work didn't do that! This was supposed to be one of the biggest blizzards EVER! (okay, not really ever, but pretty massive). UDOT was encouraging businesses to shut down early so their employees wouldn't be out on the roads. We at work kept wishing that we shut down early, but no. We had to stay open for those crazies who decided they needed cash out of their account in the middle of a blizzard.

It was crazy watching the storm roll in, and really, it was crazy. The wind was blowing, and it was totally awesome. I love snowstorms (probably because we don't get them very often here!) But yeah. I love winter, and I love cuddling up next to my hubby while the wind is blowing the snow like crazy outside!

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 22

2010-11-22T20:16:00.000-07:00

pEopLe Who DoN'T ComPlaiN!

I love when I meet someone, who you know is having a tough time in their lives, but they just DON'T complain about anything. It's so refreshing knowing that if they can make it through their struggles without sharing them with everyone, and can keep a positive attitude, then ANYONE can!

I get really frustrated with people when all they do is complain. Now I, by no means, am perfect, and I do complain a lot, but I do try to keep it between my husband and I (lucky him! lol). But when I do start to complain to others, I just have to think about those people who complain about everything, and I remember that I do NOT want to be "one of those people." Life is tough, we all have to deal with our own circumstances, but remember...we ALL have to deal with our own circumstances. Keep a positive attitude!

It does make me very grateful for those who DON'T complain! ;)

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 21

2010-11-21T20:14:00.000-07:00

the TaLenTs oF oTheRs!

I love reading other people's blogs. Yes, I do it in a somewhat stalker-ish ways sometimes, but I just get so fascinated with reading about other people. I have found that I love reading what I like to call "Mommy Blogs" (I'm not the only one who calls them that. Technically that is what they're called. I just wanted a brief moment of credit.) But it's fun to see what other people can find and come up with, and various talents they have that they can share with others. I'm jealous. I want to create a "Mommy Blog" and have people stalk me and think I'm cool. But really, i'm grateful for the talents of others. It makes me think that maybe, just MAYBe I can do something cool too.

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 20

2010-11-20T20:03:00.000-07:00

Old CrApPy CaRs...

That don't go up hills very fast. Now, today I'm especially grateful for these, because when you're driving through a TERRIBLY snowy canyon, and the roads are crappy, if you're in an old crappy car that doesn't go fast uphill...you can't possibly go fast, so you don't have to worry about driving slow on the icy roads. It really was nice, because if there were people who wanted to pass me, I could just give them a look like, "sorry, my car is crappy, it won't go faster" and I am therefore much safer! Love my cars!

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 19

2010-11-19T19:52:00.000-07:00

I'm grateful for any excuse to ask for work off early.

Today it happened to be because my little sister was in the Cokeville High School musical. She had the lead role, and since I think so totally rocks, I decided I wanted to go watch her. So of course I did.

They performed the musical, "The Pajama Game" and while I'd never heard of it, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Kenz totally rocked it, and I was so proud of her.

I'm going to link you up to my favorite song of the entire musical, of course, Kenz and Beau did a lot better job! ;)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bzv4jOTuwjw

I love being able to ask for time off to enjoy things like this.

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 18

2010-11-18T19:57:00.000-07:00

PaY DaY!!

Who doesn't love pay day? I probably work forward to this day a little TOO much, but really, it almost makes working at one's job worth it! ;)

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 17

2010-11-17T22:08:00.000-07:00

GoOd BoOKs!

I have always been a big reader. It doesn't really matter what it is. I can read just about anything, but like I've mentioned in previous posts, my favorites are still "Young Adult" books. I have quite a few of that style of books, and I've read just about all of them at least once...a lot of them twice or more. I love finding a good series, and hate when I get a bad one, mostly because if the first one is pretty bad, I usually can't stop reading it still. There are very few that i haven't wanted to get the next book of.

Some recent faves are:

The Summoning by Kelley Armstrong
This one is a series, and I can't wait to get the next one. It kind of scares me (not gonna lie)...It's about a girl who sees ghosts, and if you know me, I'm a total freak about stuff like that. I have major fears about this type of stuff...lol...but it was very interesting, and I look forward to the next ones...

The Private Series by Kate Brian

I've mentioned this series before, but it is definitely my favorite. Granted the last book took a STUPID twist that I'm not very happy about, I will still read it, and can't wait until the 21st of December for this one to come out!

And of course my ALL TIME FAVORITE...

Vampire Academy Series

I started this series when I was visiting Shari in Georgia. She had it, and let me borrow the series, and I am HOOKED! Holy moly, I have read them AT LEAST 4 times since March (there are 5) Soon to be 6.....MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ME!!! I'm super excited....

but I love books, and I"m always up for any good suggestions! :D

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 16

2010-11-16T22:01:00.001-07:00

Fuzzy socks, fuzzy pants, and fuzzy blankets.

Nothing beats putting on my fuzzy sock, pants and wrapping up in a warm fuzzy blanket. I always have to have a blanket with me. Even in the summer...I love my blankets! They get some pretty good use, probably too much sometimes.

I had a favorite blanket in HS. I got it for Christmas when I was..mmm...maybe 10? It had teddy bears on it, and I took it EVERYWHERE...sleepovers, camping, ball trips. I always had to have my blanket with me. I still have it. It's still in pretty good shape. Maybe it isn't as soft as it once was, but It's still in one piece.

I also recently purchased a pair of super soft, fuzzy pajama pants. Yeah, they're my new favorite. If they weren't BRIGHT purple, pink, green and blue striped, I'd probably where them everywhere. It's nice to come home from work, wearing a skirt, or dress pants, and jumping into my cozy pants, and slipping on a pair of my fuzzy socks. So comforting! What would I do with out fuzzy!?

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 15

2010-11-15T10:59:00.000-07:00

I am grateful for my HEALTHY hair. (totally vain post ahead....I'm sorry, but I am grateful for this!)

I almost always had short hair when I was growing up, (I think I was in 5th grade when I had my shortest...mushroom shaped haircut. and yes, I realize that it was totally ugly, but at the time it wasn't!) go ahead, laugh!
Then my junior year I decided to keep my hair long. And it got REALLY long. probably about to the middle of my back. (for those who know me now, it was even longer than this) I loved it! I dyed it a chocolate brown that was so pretty, then I chopped it to above my shoulders...then it just kept getting shorter from there...
I think I'm really lucky to be able to pull of both long and short cuts. (as well as different colors, which trust me, I tried! Brown, blonde, black, purple, red, etc... ;) And even though everyone told me my hair would fall out if I kept dying it, it's healthy (and THICK) as ever, and I am grateful for it. It's not too thick that it's unmanageable (most days), and I am able to style it how I want. So even though sometimes I get annoyed with the split ends, I am grateful that I do have hair, and that it's healthy!

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 14

2010-11-14T10:52:00.000-07:00

I'm grateful for humbling experiences like my one today.

I am good at playing the piano. I can honestly say that I believe that. I have a talent, and I am grateful for this talent, but every now and then the Lord thinks he needs to keep those of us with these talents humble.

I was accompanying the Young Women in sacrament meeting today, and one of my BIGGEST fears when accompanying people is that my music will fall of the piano, or I won't be able to change pages fast enough....well...My biggest fear came true today. The song they were singing is like 8 pages long, so I had my sheet music stacked the way I needed it, and I had practiced doing it this way a million times, so I wouldn't have to have anyone change my music for me. Well...something went wrong and I took down the wrong pages, and so when the time came for the big key change.....yeah, I didn't have the right pages. I had to stop completely while I found the right page, and we were able to end the song pretty well. Ugh! I think I totally psyched myself out! Such a frustrating thing for sure...lol, but this made be grateful for these humbling experiences...Even those who have better talens than I do in certain areas can make mistakes! ;)

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 13

2010-11-13T21:34:00.000-07:00

Not gonna lie...I'm kinda obsessed with her. She is a little odd, and she can't dance worth crap, but she is different, and I kind alike her (Kinda like Lady GaGa...freaky as all heck, but ya have to kinda like her...)

Anyway...I love all of Katy Perry's hits - Hot 'n' Cold, Waking up in Vegas, Teenage Dream, etc. etc.

Everytime I hear her songs, I can't help but bust out in song and sing along. Her music makes me happy, and even though, like I said, she is kind of strange, I'm grateful for her music!

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 12

2010-11-12T21:24:00.000-07:00

tHe OfFicE!

I have to admit...when the office was first HUGE, I didn't see what the big deal was. granted, I didn't ever really sit down and watch it, but once Greg and I sat down and really watched it, we were hooked! Holy moly this show is hilarious! We could watch the same episodes over and over, and they are still funny. Kinda makes me wish my "office" had a Dwight...

Greg and I watch it almost every night night 10-11. They are all repeats, but that's okay. That way we don't have to wait all week for a new episode. If you have your doubts about this show..just sit down and watch an entire episode. You have to actually watch (not just play it in the background while you're doing something else), because it is quite funny! Love it!

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 11

2010-11-11T22:14:00.001-07:00

I don't think that needs any more explanation! How wonderful it is that we get to live in such an amazing and beautiful country!

And because today is Veteran's day, I'm grateful for the many men and woman who serve our country. Who risk their lives for the freedoms that we enjoy everyday. I have many family members and friends who have served, and I am so grateful for each of you....

especially my bro-in-law Ben!
What an amazing brother, husband (to my sis, of course), father (to my adorable niece and nephews...as if that needed explaining). He has been serving in the military for at least the past 6 years (pretty sure it was before he and Shari got married). He recently spent some time over in Afghanistan, and while it was a long 6 months (probably longer for Shari), I'm grateful for the time he has spent serving our country. I am proud to call him my brother.

His little girl is so proud of her daddy too. When I was visiting my sis in Georgia, one of the nights we went out to eat the manager came to our table and Lilli proudly told him that her daddy was an Airman. (pretty much random, out of the blue! love her!) But we are all so proud of him, and grateful to have him in our family. We love you Ben! Thanks for all you do.

And because I love this picture......

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 10

2010-11-10T21:56:00.000-07:00

I'm grateful for my job as a teller. I am not going to lie, I complain about my job a LOT. But let's be honest...who DOESN'T complain about their job every now and then? Being a teller is nothing like I imagined. (except for the "deposit and withdrawal" part). There really is a lot of stress involved, and there is a LOT more to it that simple "deposits and withdrawals." You've got about a billion federal regulations, loans, IRAs, check holds, etc. etc.

BUT...it is a good job. I love my co-workers (90% of the time)...the other 10% I just like them. And for the most part, the members rock as well. But I have a learned a lot from this job, and while I can honestly say I don't want to be a teller for the rest of my life, I am grateful that I was the one who got this job.

And for your enjoyment....If you have EVER been a Teller...you will find that all of these are SO TRUE! lol..(really people, you'd be surprised!) So, next time you go in the bank...please be nice to your teller. Chances are he/she really DOES know what he/she is doing!

50 Things I have learned by being a bank teller

1. I know everyone in the world, so I never need to ask for ID.

2. 'I'll be with you in one moment,' means 'Come right up here into my business and breathe your popcorn breath in my face for a while.'

3. Every bank in the world steals money from its customers, particularly the ones that don't keep a register.

4. I'm always kidding when I tell people a check is not any good. I'm a good kidder.

5. I know the balance of every account at the bank.

6. I am at the bank just because I feel like it; my window isn't actually open when I say, 'May I help you?'

7. I know everyone's account number.

8. I know everyone's address.

9. I don't understand how banking works..

10. I have to do whatever the person who gave my customer the check said.

11. I don't know how to count.

12. I don't know how to add.

13. I don't know what the date is.

14. I can read everyone's mind.

15. If I ask for your social, Im trying to steal your identity.

16. I know when every new coin will be arriving.

17. I know how much everyones bills are for the month.

18. We dont sell stamps.

19. We are just here for fun on most holidays, were not really open. We love when you rub it in.

20. When someone asks how you want your cash back, you are supposed to tell them after you get your money back.

21. Apparently people have different definitions of commercial.

22. Your time is more important than mine. I have no life. When you show up 5 minutes before we close to make 10 deposits or open a new account, we dont mind.

23. Everyone with the Bank name tag is related.

24. I am also your secretary.

25. We love to place holds on your checks for fun, we are the only bank that does it.

26. 13 hours and 10 minutes is not enough time for people to do their business.

27. I am in charge of the never ending popcorn, smarties, and coffee.

28. It is polite to ignore someone when they say hello.

29. It is my fault when someone cuts you in line. I should have been paying attention to you and not your money.

30. I know what a checkingdepositwithdrawal for savings is.

31. Being rude should make me want to help you more.

32. I am not really human, I should not make mistakes.

33. It is okay to go into someones office when their door is shut.

34. I have a secret collection of licenses in my cubby.

35. I cant hear. I need you to ding the bell 5 times in a row.

36. The sign that says Next Window Please is just for decoration.

37. I make people wait on purpose, its fun to make them mad.

38. I know everyones pin number to their ATM card.

38. Fraud isnt real, I should give customers exactly what they want.

39. The coin machine is my favorite thing to do.

40. The bank gives out free poinsettias at Christmas, we order them for you, not the bank. Display only means whatever you want it to mean.

41. Please and Thank You are forbidden words at the bank. We hate to hear them.

42. Checking and Savings deposit slips are EXACTLY the same, we just like the color pink and wanted to make them more colorful. Marking through the word savings changes the deposit slip completely!

43. When I tell someone the same thing over and over, Im just doing it for fun. I like to waste my breath.

44. We will break the rules for anybody as long as you gripe for more than 10 minutes.

45. I am a professional coin counter. Even when the machine is broken, I will count the coin for you by hand!

46. I am psychic; when you call I can recognize your voice and pull up your information. My computer is voice activated. Its that fancy technology we have.

47. You dont have to tell me that youve been with the bank for 50 years… I can tell.

48. Even after 5 years, I am a new teller to anyone who has never seen me before. If Ive never met you, I have no idea what Im doing.

49. I make the rules for the banking industry. You can blame everything on me!

50. I'm an idiot.

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 9

2010-11-09T21:45:00.001-07:00

eYe-SiGhT!

For reals! Even though I have to use contacts or glasses to see clearly, I'm grateful that I can see at all. I can't imagine a world where I had NO SIGHT! I don't think I could handle it, especially knowing all the beauty that this world really does have.

So, thank you dad's side for giving me your poor eyesight...at least I have some..

and I'll take this "day of gratitude" one step further to say how grateful I am for stylish glasses. Thank you Candies for making this super cute glasses, that look better in person than in this picture.

So what if I copied my then-16-year-old-sister, and had to get the same glasses as hers (only in brown instead of black!) At least now I'm totally stylish! (I really do get a lot of compliments on my glasses, and I ALWAYS tell them I copied my baby sister! ;)

I think my next glasses will be these....(also by Candies) maybe in pink, maybe not! Who knows.

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 8

2010-11-08T21:00:00.003-07:00

FaLL!!!

I think a lot of times, living in this area we sometimes don't get to enjoy fall. It's almost as if the snow hits as soon as summer is over and so everything is already covered in snow, but this year has been awesome for fall. We haven't had the sudden snow, so the trees have been able to take their precious time changing their leaves and falling to the ground. So pretty! I think fall has some of the prettiest colors!

Greg has to drive to Kaysville every Thursday for class, and he always talks about how cool the trees are, so we decided to take a little trip to get some pictures. Enjoy!

This one was Greg's favorite. It was this bright orange tree in the middle of all these grey ones. Pretty sweet I must say.

my fave...

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 7

2010-11-07T22:38:00.000-07:00

Daylight Savings!

Seriously! I know it kinda sucks when it's spring and we have to "spring forward" but come fall, it's totally awesome! Who doesn't love an extra hour of sleep! I know I sure do! So that is what I choose to be grateful for today!

(c'mon...it's funny!)

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 6

2010-11-06T22:27:00.001-06:00

I'm grateful for the time I get to spend playing XBox games with my hubby.

I never thought I would be a big gamer, but I gotta admit, my husband got me hooked. I always thought HALO was a lame game, but now it pretty much rocks. Gears of War - totally awesome!

Now, it kinda sucks that we don't have as much time to play, but there have been times in the past where we've played until 4-5 in the a.m. (but now we're grown-ups and have to go to work before noon! BOOO!)

But I always look forward to Christmas time where we try to find some super cool games for us to play, and I'm particularly looking forward to this Christmas because we MAY (or may not) get a new cool toy to go along with our XBox...We'll see how gracious Santa is feeling...

But really, I am grateful for the time (what little it is) that I get to spend cuddled up with the hubby, playing shooting games, and getting mad that I suck and can never hit the dudes (and even sucks more when we have to split up on missions, and I'm expected to do some wicked killing!) SUPER FUN!

(FYI -- we finally passed of Gears of War 2! yeah we're pretty much the best ever!)

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 5

2010-11-05T22:17:00.000-06:00

I'm grateful for....

fRiDaYs!!!

Without Fridays, what would we have to look forward to ALL WEEK LONG?!?

Fridays are always the best, because even though one may have

to work, it still means that it's the beginning of the weekend!

Friday nights are for shopping, eating super delicious foods,

and cuddling up with the hubby on the couch, watching a movie,

some game, or the Office.

For sure Thankful for Fridays!

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 4

2010-11-04T19:08:00.000-06:00

I've decided today that I am very grateful for my mom's crab dip recipe. (well, it may not really be hers. I don't know...but I will call it hers since that is where I got it.)

The only time she ever really made it was around Christmas time. Which is fine, I suppose since it made it all the more enjoyable. But I was able to make some the other day, and boy oh boy is it delish! If you are my friend, maybe I will make some for you for Christmas, unless, of course...you don't like crab...then I guess you're out of luck!

I'm grateful that I was able to pig out on this today for "lunch." Super deelish!
(this isn't really it. there aren't huge chunks in it like that...lol, just needed a picture!)

And if you wanted the recipe, here ya goes!

Crab Dip
2 - 8oz packages of cream cheese
1 jar cheddar cheese spread
1 1/2 lbs imitation crab
1/2 t accent
1/4 t garlic
1 t lemon juice
1 t. lemon herb
chives (optional)

Mix them all together & refrigerate.

I eat them with Ritz, but you can use it with whatever you'd like!
(so you don't get a huge jar of cheese spread...this is what I use, just not that flavor. just wanted to clarify since that ingredient wasn't very specific!)

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 3

2010-11-03T19:03:00.000-06:00

Today I'm grateful to know that I am a "Daughter of a King."

Tonight we had our Young Women in Excellence, and our theme was "Daughter of a King." I gave a talk on the topic, and as I was preparing for it, it made me grateful to know that I really am a daughter of God, and he loves me. He loves me for who I am, and I need to learn to accept myself for who I am because, let's face it. I pretty much rock!

Our YWIE turned out really well though. After my talk, we had the girls present their projects that they've been working on, and then we called all the girls up on stage and gave them a sash that said "Daughter of a King" and had our bishop go to each of them and "crown them" and give them a rose. It was awesome. We had some background music playing and it was a really neat experience. I hope it was for the girls as well. I hope they all know that they are Daughters of a King!

And PS....so are you! :D

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 2

2010-11-02T22:37:00.005-06:00

Don't judge me on this one...it's been a long day, and I'm kind of tired!

but after many years of my sisters making fun of me and telling me I had HUGE lips, I've decided today that I am actually very grateful for my "voluptuous lips".

I was looking at pictures I took of myself, and recalling a Rachael Ray episode where I learned how to tell if someone has had lip injections....

Your bottom lip should be 1.5x bigger than your top lip.

When I heard this, I got a little self conscious and started looking at my lips to make sure they didn't look fake. Well, everytime I looked I felt like my top lip was just as big as my bottom lip, but after looking at these pictures, I realized that it isn't entirely true. (haha...sorry, just thought I'd share!)

But I really do love my lips, and I am grateful that they are "HUGE"! (enjoy this random picture of myself! I was trying to get my hair in it...but it didn't work so well....)

30 Days of Gratitude - Day 1

2010-11-01T23:27:00.002-06:00

My fabulous friend & amazing scrapbook designer, Suzy, has presented a challenge to readers of her blog. Because I think it's a fabulous challenge, I'm going to pass it on to you.

And of course, I'm going to do it too....(at least I'll try to! ;)

Anyway...

Today, I'm grateful for a husband who loves to decorate for the "big" holidays (Halloween & Christmas!) Even though sometimes he chooses the coldest nights of the year to set up the lights, and sometimes I get frustrated with the amount of lights that we have, I really do enjoy decorating with him and seeing the final project. I think his favorite is Halloween. We have some pretty creepy things that have scared some cute little kiddos. (I'll post more pictures and write more about our Halloween later...maybe...)

But here is one of the faves....Marcus the Carcass...this year he chilled on our porch swing (so I wouldn't trip over him all the time this year!)

What are you grateful for?!?

My Days....

2010-10-25T21:21:00.003-06:00

consist of...

waking up...getting on my computer...doing the random things on that I need to...

washing my hair, eating breakfast, drying hair, putting on a little make up, get dressed, go to work..

work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work...

come home, relax, eat dinner, some computer stuff, relax, and bed!

That's really about it.

Super exciting, right?

one could say so...

or not...

but yeah...I don't even know what to blog about. kinda lame right?

I did get my hair done. I went dark with some purple (look blue) streaks that totally rock my work! It's still long, and I think I like it.

Last Saturday (16) we had a pig roast...like I literal pig roast. Dig a pit, build a fire, drop a pig in the pit, cover with blankets and newspapers, pig roast. We have a family in a ward who are from Samoa, and they did an EXCELLENT job helping out the Elder's Quorum with this dinner. It was quite the success. Greg had planed on maybe 50 people, but had over 100. I only had to run to the store once to get more ice cream, so we lucked out with the food, and had a TON of pork left over. Really, it was a 250 lb pig. And super delicious! It was a great night, and though I fully supported el presidente in his calling....I hope to never get called to the activities committee...

Anywho. Thought I'd leave you with a picture of me and part of my face and hair. It's all you get. Maybe one day I'll talk greg into getting a picture with me!

I do...

2010-10-15T23:48:00.001-06:00

Have a post

it's about homecoming that happened

only about 2 weeks ago.

maybe i'll post it...

maybe not

it's already written

i've just been to lazy to post it

because it needs pictures

and i'm too lazy to put the pictures in,

so maybe tomorrow...or Sunday!

We shall see!

10.10.10

2010-10-10T21:44:00.002-06:00

Because it's

10.10.10

I just wanted to make a post, cuz that's super cool!

(and it's Gram's birthday. She'd be 104! Crazy stuff!)

Ding-Dong-Ditched

2010-10-07T23:42:00.002-06:00

Seriously...

I didn't know people still did this...

I never expected it to happen to me...

but it did...

tonight at approximately 9:00 p.m.

mature people, real mature...

kinda funny...

but odd really...

i honestly expected someone to at least drop off cookies or something!

guess i've just never been a victim before...

so yeah..

that was the excitement for my night!

totally funny...kinda, right?

maybe it was the same person(s) that stole our flower pots back in July.....

Mama?

2010-09-26T20:48:00.005-06:00

With all the announcements of pregnancy amongst many of my friends, I thought it was time to announce my recent little surprise....

There is a certain photographer that I admire, who also happens to sell photo actions. She totally rocks, and not too long ago she was doing a giveaway for a Lensbaby. Always loving an awesome giveaway, I decided to enter. Like any giveaways there were certain things I had to do, "like me on fb" "mention this giveaway on fb" "purchase something from my shop" etc. etc. So I did those things. Now, I have entered many giveaways in my lifetime, and never won anything. So I didn't expect anything.

Imagine my surprise when about two weeks ago I check my email and see an email from Sarah of My Four Hens Photography. Even more of a surprise when the email read, "Congrats!! You are my LensBaby Composer Contest winner!!" I was super duper excited!!! I received my lensbaby about a week ago, and took it out to play for a minute just yesterday. It's a super cool lens, and I'm so excited to play with it a little more!!

Here are a few of the pics I took with it yesterday. This little grasshopper was the perfect model. Was perfectly still until I was done!

And of course I had to edit some of the pictures with Sarah's FABULOUS actions! I used her "Glory" collection on both of these. (I think! lol)

(Canary Fairy)

(Fantasia)

Needless to say Greg and I are both excited about this unexpected surprise. Me because I actually WON a giveaway (and an AWESOME one at that) and I can't wait to use this lens more, and Greg, because now he doesn't have to buy me another lens!

Still....

2010-09-25T23:05:00.002-06:00

nothing new.

Spent today working and sleeping, and eating pizza and cheese bread.

Did a little work outside.

Walked around Hastings for 20 minutes (yes, I kept time!)

Came home and did a little housework.

Cuddled with the hubby while watching a movie.

Now....just waiting to go to bed!

So busy....all the time!

But gotta love those few minutes of relaxation, right?!?

i know I do!

So, until I have another few minutes...this is all you get.

Maybe next post will be about Greg's new toy that totally freaks me out!

(it's seriously cReEPy!!!!)

I've been busy!

2010-09-18T21:23:00.004-06:00

Really...besides working my real life job, I have been busy taking photos, editing photos, and trying to keep my house clean (good thing we don't have visitors!) So until I have another 10 minute break to blog about stuff...here's a peek at what I have been doing. (to clarify...that would be EDITING this little guys' photos!)

You can see more on my photog blog or my facebook fan page

and one of my many favorites...(mostly cuz he's winking at me!)

One of these days...

2010-09-15T10:26:00.001-06:00

I'll win a fabulous giveaway... (oh wait I did!!! But I'll post it later!) lol...

but here is another blog that I've grown to love, and they're giving away some hand-stamped jewelry (which I also love!) So go over and enter yourself! Maybe you'll be the lucky one!

http://littlemissmomma.blogspot.com/2010/09/magnificent-metal-giveaway-handstamped.html

Happy Birthday to Me!

2010-08-29T16:35:00.004-06:00

So, you thought you missed my birthday, didn't you?

Well, you did, and I'm just late posting about my July 2 birthday, so because you missed it, now is your chance to celebrate with me! (totally kiddding...)

Anyway, so I spent my birthday working all day...12:30-7:15. Loads of fun, not to mention I was supposed to be off at 6:30, but it just so happened that the check system decided not to be our friend, so we got stuck late. But it was still a pretty good day. Greg made me the most delicious (and 100% healthy!) dinner...homemade onion rings, fries, chicken nuggets, and stuffed mushrooms. Yes, it was my request, and yes, that is probably why i look the way I do. But ever since we started making our own onion rings, I've been craving them pretty much all the time.

mmmmm...don't they look delicious!?!? (ignore all the oil that the paper towel soaked up! hehe) Super delicious indeed!

We just spent the night relaxing, and once it got dark (because for some reason Utah likes to celebrate holidays on the wrong days..) We climbed on our roof and watched some fireworks. When I was younger and the Thompson's would put on their massive fireworks show (let's face it, it was the #1 fireworks show in the entire city of Cokeville!) I loved it! But now I can only watch so much before it starts getting boring, so after watching for quite some time, we got bored and decided to climb down. Of course as soon as we got to the ground they had the "grand finale!" Perfect timing! But it was good times, none the less. Here are just a few photos.
Saturday I had to work again (totally lame!) but I made it through. We had a BBQ with some friends on Sunday, and just enjoyed a relaxing weekend (despite having to work! BOO!) But it was a great birthday still. Greg let me get a new lens for my camera, and we also found a fairly cheap treadmill on KSL that we were able to get that weekend (and yes I do use it...just don't ask where it is, and don't ever come to visit!) Sometimes I wish we had a double wide! (haha.....I'm kidding...that is a trailer park people joke)

Ahhhh, so I'm pretty much caught up on my July. I was able to spend some time with my adorable niece and nephews. I really hate that they live so far away. They just keep getting bigger and bigger everytime I see them. But they definitely love me. Lilli tells me all the time that I'm her favorite Aunt, and you can just tell that Alex and Aidan absolutely love me! I have no problem admitting that I am the best aunt in the world! But I am sad they're gone. But I was able to get some pics while they were up. (and no, shari, I haven't edited them....) but here are just a couple of the cute kids.

So yeah, that's all for now!

Sunsets...

2010-08-22T17:06:00.003-06:00

We've had quite a few gorgeous sunsets this summer, so I'd thought I'd share a few!

These ones below were taken while my family (minus greg and I) were enjoying the sunset in California... :'( But it was a gorgeous night here. Not only was there a gorgeous sunset, but it was also RAINING! *Almost* made me forget the fact that I could have been enjoying the beach!

“Sunsets are so beautiful that they almost seem as if we were looking through the gates of Heaven.” -John Lubbock

Holy wow! It's been a while...

2010-07-25T20:38:00.004-06:00

I can't believe how long it's been since I last did a "real" post! That's lame! So here I am playing catch-up (part 1)

Back in May I was able to attend my friend Tiffany's wedding. She was getting married in Manti on a Thursday morning, so I decided to head to Mapleton on Wednesday after work so I could stay with my cousins Cami and Haley (who are currently living in my Grandpa's old house. CREEPY!!! lol) We had loads of fun, talking and laughing all night long...literally...I wanted Cami to do my hair (and she is FAB btw) and we didn't even get done until way late. Not the greatest idea when you have to get up super early to make the rest of the trip, but it was worth it.

Now, to back track just a little...I have THE WORST luck when it comes to cars. I don't know why, they just never seem to want to work for me...or something goes horribly wrong. Before I took the trip I was really concerned about the tires. I don't know why, I just felt like something was going to go wrong on this trip. I checked the tires before I left, put a little air in them and headed out. I did pretty good until I got right past Pleasant Grove area where they were doing construction. Let me tell you....Utah Drivers + Construction + Night time is NOT a good combination...Well, I was following this car and I noticed it kind of swerve in front of me, by the time I saw what they swerved for, it was too late. There was this big huge rock/dirt clod in the middle of the road, and I totally took it out. It scared the crap out me. The car may have gotten air, I don't really know, but it scared me. So then I was worried the rest of the way to Mapleton that something was going to be wrong...Greg had me check the oil in the morning, and getting the hood open is a trial in and of itself...It takes a lot of skill, pulling on the lever while smacking the hood, to get it open. Once I FINALLY got it open to check the oil...the oil was really low, so Greg was afraid that me hitting the rock caused the oil to leak. I started freaking out wondering how I was going to get to Manti. Aubrey and I were planning on going together, but I was going to drive because Buck needed their car, so I called her kinda freaking out, and she ended up getting the car from Buck and driving us. Ugh! So frustrating. We parked my car in the parking lot next to Grandpa's house to see if any oil would leak.

In the meantime Aubs and I headed out to Manti. It's been AGES since I've been there, but it was actually a pretty nice drive. It was also fun to catch up with Aubs, since it too, has been ages. We actually made really good time, despite leaving almost an hour late, and were there in plenty of time for the ceremony. It was a beautiful ceremony, and it was so fun to see Tiff and Dev sealed. I'm so happy for those two. It was also a rather warm, but beautiful day for pics (despite the high noon sun and NO CLOUDS!) But they looked happy, and are a cute couple, so of course the pics turned out great!

(to see more, visit my photog blog or my facebook page!)

Gorgeous, right?

Anyway, the ride home was somewhat of an adventure as well. Lol, the car wasn't leaking oil, so we figured it was fine for me to drive home. As I was driving through Springville, I kept hearing this squeaking noise. Kinda freaked out thinking something was horribly wrong, and realized (once I got on the freeway) that my hood wasn't shut completely! lol...DUH! I had to pull over and shut it. Great fun....great fun...So yeah, that was my adventure, but I was glad that I was able to make it to Tiff's wedding!

The next week, Greg and I celebrated big #5. I already blogged about this (kinda) but it was a great day. It's crazy to think that it's been 5 years already. Where has the time gone?!?!?

June was a pretty boring month. Just worked a lot of hours, and tried to play and relax in the hours that I didn't work. I wasn't able to go to Girl's Camp this year because of work, and then our presidency got released the last week of June. It was sad, because I really liked the ladies I served with...but it's okay, because I got put right back in as the Secretary along with two of the three other ladies. Our president Melanie was released as she is prego with her second child (who is coming next month! less than 30 days Mel!!) I'm sad she's gone...because she was a wonderful president. The girls loved her, and it was great getting to know her. So really Melanie, we miss you! But yeah....so that happened...

Greg also got released as the ward clerk and in as the Elder's Quorum President. El Presidente is at meetings all the time now, but he's doing a fabulous job. (he's at meetings as I type...his "hour or so" meetings usually turn into 2+ hour meetings...he left @ 7:30) Anywho...so that was exciting.

July 2-4 will be blogged about at a later date and time....

July 5 my mom and sisters came down and we had a girls day. We went to Eclipse in the morning (which...btw...I surprisingly LIKED!! lol...) It was fun to make fun of the dumb things that were said and done. My most favorite part of the entire movie (lasted about 3 minutes) was when they were first chasing Victoria...and it was all dark....mmmm...intense! The acting was horrible still, and I also thought all the lovey dovey CRAP was really over-done. Could have done without it ENTIRELY and the movie would have A-been about an hour shorter, and B-ROCKED!!! But what can I do. I just get to watch and enjoy Taylor Lautner aka Jacob's hottness! Let's face it he is "hotter" than Edward! (hehe..totally cheesy line, but I enjoyed it). hmmm...so yeah...not too bad. Definitely better than the first two! Oh, and claim to fame (not mine...greg's) the girl that plays Bree....Greg met her on his mission in canada. Kinda random, right? So yeah, after the movie we went and ate dinner at Cafe Rio. We were going to get manicures and pedicures after, but it was SUPER expensive, so mom gave us all $25 dollars to do a gift exchange. I had Kandyce and she had me, and Kenz had Shari and Shari had Kenz. It was pretty fun...except I HATE shopping! When I did find a cute outfit for Kandyce, the store's computer wasn't working so I couldn't buy it! LAME!!! I was NOT HAPPY! But whatever...But it was still fun. Here are some pics from the day...

Kandyce, Shari and I waiting to eat at Cafe Rio.
Mom, Kandyce, me, Kenz and Shari

That's all for now!

On my birthday....

2010-07-02T23:43:00.001-06:00

....I got a huge fireworks show....

bet you never got anything cool like that!

Happy July 2 everyone!

J. Jewel Designs Giveaway

2010-07-01T09:23:00.002-06:00

I love hand-stamped necklaces, and I have always wanted one...

so I thought I would enter this give away over at "Our Family Treat."

Check it out!

http://cucinafamiglia.blogspot.com/2010/06/j-jewels-designs-giveaway.html

These two are my faves

nothing new...

2010-06-26T16:00:00.003-06:00

so...yeah....

I did post some of a somewhat recent photo shoot...

just nothing going on around the aullman household!

happy summer!

Consider This My Mid-life Crisis...

2010-06-10T20:56:00.003-06:00

...I really want a motorcycle. No I know nothing about them, and no I have never ridden one (except a long time ago...and it was a dirt bike so it doesn't count) Greg says I'm not the biker type...and to him I say, "Not yet, I'm not!"

With my birthday coming up...I know what you can get me...
I saw something similar to this on TV and I thought it not only looked cool, but also seemed safer than a regular bike (whether it is or not, I have no idea!) Like I said, I don't know anything about bikes, nor do I claim to...I just want one!

Happy THURSday!

2010-06-10T19:51:00.003-06:00

Yeah...I woke up thinking today was Friday...

and multiple times throughout the day I thought it was Friday...

And then I realized it's only Thursday...

which, though it means I am more than halfway through the week...

also means that I have work tomorrow...

and THEN it's the weekend...

Not cool to be excited that today is Friday only to find out that...

it's only Thursday...

and to make matters worse...

it didn't rain very much today....

AND...

my familia is enjoying California...

and the beach...

and greg and i aren't...

So............................

yeah...

Happy THURSday everyone!

umm...

2010-06-05T23:38:00.002-06:00

so I volunteered to teach a digital scrapbooking thing for enrichment on tuesday...and now I don't know what to present....(well...digi scrapping is such a broad topic...it's hard to know where to begin!)

What would you like to learn if you were to get into digi scrapping? lol....HELP! (oh...and to make it even more difficult...I'll be the only one with a computer....I don't know how this will work!)

I would die without electricity...

2010-06-05T20:55:00.003-06:00

I really think I might. Luckily I don't have to worry about that anymore....here's the story.

Almost the entire time that Greg and I have lived in our house we have had problems with our electricity. I honestly don't remember when it all started, but it's been quite the adventure. I think it was the first summer we were married, we finally figured out how to work the swamp cooler, and then one rainy/lightning-y afternoon, lighting struck, and we think it hit our swamp cooler, because it went out...sort of. It was at half power. But not only that...but half the power in the entire house. So, the circuit that our swamp cooler, dryer, and stove/oven was out. We didn't know what to do, so we dealt with it. We purchased a toaster oven, and made a lot of crock-pot dinners. I think we ended up calling the power company, and they 'fixed' it.

For a little while. Fast forward to a Christmas...power gets blown again. Greg and his friend Steve go through all of the outlets in the house. They end up fixing a few...so again, our power is 'fixed'.

Again, fast forward a little...something happens...half the power goes out. We try flipping the breaker in the house...nothing works....call the power company, he flips the main switch, and VOILA! It's 'fixed'....So, for the past at least 3 years we've been technically living on half power. When it would go out, we'd go outside and flip the main breaker.

The past year or so it has gotten really bad. There wasn't a set thing that triggered the power outage. Sometimes it was a flip of a light switch, often times it was the stove or the dryer. Sometimes we'd just be sitting eating dinner and it would go out. Luckily we had all our important stuff plugged into the circuit that didn't go out (TV, computers, refrigerator). It was not fun having to shut everything down 2-3 times a day to flip the power. Plus, when you touched the switch it would sizzle and start to smell like something was burning...doesn't sound to pleasant, right? Well, it wasn't....

A couple of weeks ago when I got home from work, I hold my breath as I flipped on the living room light (which is on the bad circuit). Surprisingly it turned on with no problems. AWESOME!! Then I head to the bedroom and go to flip on the light (good circuit)...nothing happens...Okay, weird? maybe the lightbulb is just blown. Go into the bathroom to turn on the light (good circuit) nothing happens...go to turn on my blowdryer (bad circuit) turns right on....totally weird! Everything that was on the Good circuit was now off (yes...that was a night with NO TV OR COMPUTER! :'( and everything on the bad circuit was working...Flip the main breaker...good circuit now works, bad circuit now doesn't! (haha...yes it was great fun!) Flip it again...it's all working.

Next day...problems all over the place. Half the power would go out, greg would kick the box, the other half would go out, and that half would come on. In a way, it was pretty funny, but also very annoying! We would just be sitting there and the power would all go out. NOT COOL! I was so annoyed. So frustrated! I called the city to see what they could do, but apparently they just supply the power, and charge you for it...they don't do anything about it if there's a problem with the box....

So Greg called our landlord and she said to call an electrician. If it was in the box the park would cover it, but if it was in our house, we had to. We knew it was in the box...otherwise it wouldn't have been sparking and sizzling and burning...so we called the dude. Sure enough it was he box....He temporarily fixed it that day, and by the time I got home from work the next day, it was all fixed! They replaced the entire box, and now our power works!!! It is SOOO nice not to have to hold your breath and pray that the power won't go out when you turn on a light (though we both still do...After 2 years of doing that it's hard to not! lol...) It has also been super nice to be able to do all our laundry in just a few hours instead of having to dry things a million times because the power keeps going out!

So we're greatly appreciative to the park for having that fixed, and so fast (despite it technically taking 5 years...) It's nice to have full power in our house, and I hope that we don't have problems with it again anytime soon...It's not fun!!

My Memorial Day Weekend...

2010-06-01T23:54:00.003-06:00

was FABULOUS!!!!

I had Saturday off, so that meant a THREE DAY WEEKEND!!! It's been FOREVER since I had one of those! (hehe...jk!) But it was awesome. Greg sent me a text at 10:15 telling me to wake up (yes, he was just in the living room, and I was sleeping in the bedroom) so I got up thinking we'd go get McDonald's breakfast or something, but instead he took me to a MOVIE, and not just any movie, but a CHICK FLICK! lol, what a sweetie! We went to "Letters to Juliet" which, despite the horrible acting, was a pretty cute movie! After the movie we did a little shopping, and of course, spent money we didn't really need to. Then we went home and Greg told me to pick what I wanted for lunch/dinner...so we went with Firehouse. Yummy! That night was the Suns/Lakers game, which we didn't end up watching all of because the Suns were getting beat! (SAD!!! I live for the NBA Playoffs! They are THE BEST!!!) but yeah, my Suns ended up losing...which is a total bummer! But we spent the rest of Saturday chillin' at home, just spending time together!

Sunday I was able to go to Cokeville. My cousin Trevor got home from his mission in Wisconsin (i think?! lol...for those of you Logan 17th ward peeps that read this, Trev was in the same mission that Justin(?) Trauntvein was in. small world, eh?) so I went to his homecoming. It was great to see that kid! It's crazy to see how much he's grown. I've always loved Trevor. He is such a fun kid, I have so many fun memories of him growing up. It was fun to have him literally just down the road from us. He and Brady were/are best pals, so Trev was always around...lol, on my way home I was thinking about all the fun memories I have of him, so I thought I'd share...(a lot of them include Brady...lol)

Like I said, Trevor lived just down the road from us, so EVERY morning before school he would call the house and say, "Brady, let me know when the bus is to your house," so he could leave his house and catch the bus. Well, then about 5 minutes later Brady would call Trev, "Trev, the bus is here!" You'd think they'd just go by the clock...but no, they had this ritual EVERY MORNING...lol..it is actually quite funny. We made fun of them for doing that all the time...lol...

Brady, Trevor and I would spend HOURS on the tramp playing "Power Rangers." We loved that show...for real! We always played fun games like that together...lol...

Brady and Trevor got in a really bad 6-wheeler accident. Trevor was driving and swerved to miss the dog...it rolled...Brady broke his foot, Trevor his elbow...it's still messed up! lol...it was so funny watching him in wrestling with his elbow poking out all different ways.

Brady, Trevor, and Kennan set the barn on fire by shooting fireworks...Happy 4th of July!

Trev hurt his neck (i think) playing football...I had a great time pointing at things behind him and asking, "What's that?!" because I knew he couldn't flip his head around to look...(haha! I'm so nice!)

I took photography my senior year. There were only 6 kids in the class...Me, Trev, our cousin Marlena, 2 foreign students, and Darren. Me, Trev and Darren has so much fun! Trev would give me piggy back rides to the darkroom from the HS. What a sweet kid....and my all-time favorite story comes from this class....It was about half way through the year, and we had learned how to roll and process film, so we were pretty much on our own. The darkroom was an old apartment that consisted of a kitchen/living area (REALLY small!), a "room" (i don't know what to call it!), and the bathroom where we processed the film. We always had to knock before entering rooms so we wouldn't let light in. Well, the "room" was kind of the mess around room. This was the only room that we'd have lights on in, and anytime we'd leave the "room" we'd have to turn off the lights. Well, I was in the bathroom getting ready to process some film. I had it on the roller and was about to put in the container with the chemicals when I hear a knock. I know I said something, but it must not have been very loud because I hear the door open (remember, it's pitch black in here!), and the light flips on...Trev, not expecting to see anyone in this pitch black room, sees me and screams like a girl!!! lol...It was the FUNNIEST thing in the world! I laugh everytime I think about it! It was hilarious....and was definitely worth my film being ruined. lol...ahh good times!!

Trevor would give me the BIGGEST squeezy hugs ever...They hurt like crazy (like he would seriously crush me!), but I loved getting them!

He also nick-named me "B"....which I actually really love, and was a little surprised when he called me that when I first saw him on Sunday. I had almost forgotten about that. (kennan also started calling me "b" back in the day because that's what Trev called me)

Running distance with him and Brady was a lot of fun too. I have to say that we had an awesome group of distance runners. We all were hard workers, despite our complaints of having to run so much. But I love that I was able to experience that with Trev and Brady.

After one of their track meets (I was graduated), I was sitting at home and it was like 1 am when Brady and Trev come into the house and drag me out of bed to go rabbit hunting with them! lol...it was a lot of fun, even though i was scared to death...lol...we were in Dad's little red toyota, and brady was driving...I was in the middle and Trev was leaning out the window looking for rabbits. Lots of fun!

If you can't tell, I love these two boys so much! I'm glad they were best friends, and that they let me be their friend too. I have SOOO many memories...lol, those are just a few that stand out!

ohhh...and I have to mention this one...Trevor has a dog....he's had this dog for like 500 years. Dakoda....(however it's spelled!) Koda has been run over about a million times, and I thought he was supposed to die about 5 years ago...but no...Koda is still (apparently) going strong. Trevor told me one of the many times I asked him if Koda was still alive that Koda was going to be alive when he got home from his mission...So of course I had to ask him on Sunday..."Is Koda dead?" (of course, there may have been a nicer way to word it...) I was informed that Koda is NOT dead...and that he is still alive...lol, and I'm he will probably live forever!! (I will, however, be very sad when he dies!)

But anyway....it was really great listening to Trev's talk (what little I heard...I had Lilli to my side, on my lap, fighting with Aidan, and Aidan on my lap, and fighting with Lilli!). I have no doubt that he was an AWESOME missionary. I loved hearing about his experiences, and I know that he touched many lives, and will continue to touch lives. What an awesome kid! I'm so glad I was able to go listen and see him! he also said he read my blog while on his mission, and had I known that I would have left him messages...since I never wrote him! (Don't feel bad Trev...I didn't write Kandyce or Brady either!) But if he is still reading this...I hope you know how much I love ya!! You're an awesome kid, and I look up to ya lots!!

Anyway...so yeah...that was so great. I was able to listen to my little brother Kennan give a talk (great job Kennan!) and Lilli did the musical number. Now, I have to say that this was the CUTEST thing ever! and I'm not just saying that because she's my niece and I think she's adorable anyway!!! But when I first walked in (I was a little late!) I sat down behind my sister, the boys and my mom, and next to my cousins and their friend. Lilli was up on the stage with my grandma who was leading the music. When she saw me she came running down to sit by me (have I mentioned how much she loves me?!) Well, she sat by me throughout the entire meeting, and when they announced her name and that she was singing after Kennan, she looked up at me and said, "Lilli Davis...that's me!" As soon as Kennan was done with his talk, she jumped up, said, rather loudly, "it's my turn!" and literally ran up to the microphone. She got up on the stool, pulled down the mic to her mouth, and sang "I Am a Child of God." Oh my gosh...it was the CUTEST ever! Shari needs to post the video of it on her blog! (not the real thing, but Trevor's mom wanted to get a video to send to Taryn...) But seriously, if you weren't there you definitely missed out! It was so cute!

Speaking of walking into church late...NO ONE knew who I was...which means that A. my superhero disguise worked (wearing glasses) or B. (my biggest fear) I've become one of those people that you haven't seen for a while, that has gained so much weight that you don't even recognize them!! UGH!!! I hope it's #1! But yeah...so that sucked, but it was fun seeing a lot of my friends, and people I haven't seen in a while....lol...

After church we had dinner at Grandma's new NEW house. It was fun catching up with family! I'm super glad I was able to go...

I came home to a WONDERFUL anniversary dinner that Greg prepared. It was SUPER delicious! We spent the rest of the day relaxing....

Yesterday we did the same....just relaxed, spent a little money we didn't need to, and spent all day together! What a fantabulous weekend!!!

(PS...I'll have to post some fun older pics of me, Trev, and Brady! I'm just too lazy to scan them right now!)

5 Years

2010-05-27T21:52:00.001-06:00

that's how long I've been married....pretty sweet, right?

Lately...

2010-05-23T17:11:00.000-06:00

So...I thought I would update...so here ya go...

The job is going really good. I love it! The people I work with are awesome, the environment rocks, and it's just a great place to work. I drove to SLC for training April 26-29, and that was...well, training. I stayed at my bro-in-laws house Monday night, came home Tuesday, and stayed there again Wednesday. It was fun to see the kids. They are super cute, and pretty funny. The best is listening to Nori try and talk. She talks really fast, and you can only understand a few of her words. One time she was pretending to talk to Shaina on the phone, and she was jabbering away and then she'd say, "Ha, ha, Shaina! You're so funny!" Lol it was pretty funny. It was fun playing with them though. Wednesday when I was driving to SLC, it was snowing, so I had my lights on, and as I was getting close to SLC, I thought, "I need to remember to turn off my lights." Yes, my car is ghetto, I have to manually lock and unlock the doors, roll the windows down by hand, manually turn on and off the lights (oh, and apprently my windshields are small...lol)...but anyway...so I do my training on Wednesday, and I go to head to Kyans...and my car won't start! I LEFT THE LIGHTS ON from 9-4:30ish. Oh my heck! I was so mad! Greg was at work, so I just tried texting him to see what I should do. I didn't have Kyan's number, and I didn't want him to have to come get me anyway...so I literally sat in my car for 30 minutes trying to decide what to do. Finally I decided to go in and ask one of the people who was helping with the training. He was super nice, and tried to help jump my car. Well, another little fact about my dang car is you can't just pull the lever and pop the hood. That would be too easy...You have to pull the lever, while you smack the hood to get it to pop. You have to hit it in the right place, and I obviously couldn't figure it out because it took another 10 minutes to pop the hood. Once we finally got it popped and hooked it up it still wouldn't start. Granted they didn't take time to let the battery actually charge, but whatever. I felt so dumb, and eventually Seth gave me a ride to Kyans. Kyan and I went back the next morning and charged the battery. Started right up....very nice...Ugh! Anyway...So that was an adventure...

Like I said in my previous post...I made an awesome first impression on my very first day there. So, the chairs that we have are kinda high, and the roll and have like a metal thing around the bottom for you to rest your feet on. Well, they are super high, so I went to step on the metal thing to give me a boost, my heel got caught on the metal thing, and the chair slid out from under me, and I totally face planted. Totally embarrassing. Luckily there weren't many people paying attention cuz I felt totally stupid...lol....it was great...Stupid chairs!

But other than that work is awesome. I love it, and I love getting the paychecks every two weeks! We're on our way to becoming rich again!!! LOVE IT!

Last weekend I didn't have work, so I was able to go to SLC to meet up with some of my best girl friends from HS. SLC is kinda the middle for the 4 of us that were able to go (we missed you Camille!) since we're now all over, and some of us are moving even further away! (TEAR!) But it was so much fun. It's been nearly 5 years since we've all been together. It was a blast catching up with each other. We made it to the 11:00 session in the SLC temple, and it was so cool to be able to do that. We are all married now (length of time varying from nearly 5 years (YIKES!) to only about 5 months). It's awesome to see how far we've come. After the temple we went out to eat at the Olive Garden, which was SUPER DELICIOUS, then headed down to the gateway to walk around. It was super fun! I love those girls so much, and I appreciate their friendship through the years, and for them accepting me even though I'm much older than them! I'm so sad that we're so far apart! And Jenna is moving even further! Hopefully it doesn't take another 5 years before we can all hang out again! Thanks girls for letting me invite myself (yes...i totally did...I wanted to hang out with them too!) Love you all lots!!!

Hmm...not much else is going on. I went to Manti on Thursday to Tiffany Lester's wedding. That was an adventure in and of itself as well....ahhh car...I love you...why do you hate me?!? But Aubrey and I went from Provo to Manti together, and it was fun catching up with her too. Tiff was a BEAUTIFUL bride (pics on my facebook!!!) and I love how happy her and Deven are! Congrats guys!

And yeah....this week Greg and I celebrate our big #5!!!! And we'll hopefully get to celebrate it in style down in Vegas! Crazy stuff, right! Alright...i think that's all for now!

Giveaways...

2010-05-07T09:57:00.004-06:00

Sorry for all the giveaway posts, but I found this site through a friends, and had to share, because I want one of the dresses!!
Go here for details! :D
http://cucinafamiglia.blogspot.com/2010/05/mikarose-review-and-giveaway.html

They are also having a giveaway from Essential Swimwear.

http://cucinafamiglia.blogspot.com/2010/05/essential-swimwear-review-and-giveaway.html

And this one...LOVE these!!

http://cucinafamiglia.blogspot.com/2010/05/hapari-swimwear-review-and-giveawayh.html

a hike, the airport, birthdays & bowling

2010-05-04T11:05:00.001-06:00

So, if you're my friend on facebook, you've probably seen these pics, but for those of you who aren't, and who care...here are some older pics.

Kennan's 13th birthday was March 27, so I headed to Cokeville for his big birthday bash. Shari and the kids are home for the summer, and since I hadn't seem them in OVER A WEEK! I was excited to get to play with them again. We had a blast as always...the kids just love me! hehe...anyway...when the boys went down for their nap (I hate naptime!) Brady, Lilli and I decided to go on a hike behind the house. It's been a long time since I've been back there, but it was fun. Here are a few pics of our adventure.

she claimed she had something in her eye, but I think she just didn't want to walk.
We took a walk over to what we call "the airport". It is in the field next to Gram's house, and why we called it that...I really don't know, but we had a lot of fun out here. We had cups and all sorts of different thing to play house with, and guess what...they're all still there...lol, it was pretty funny. We always had so much fun out there and thought it was the coolest thing ever!! (yes, it is a bunch of rocks!)
Later that night we head over the Montpelier to go birthday. It was Kennan's birthday, and Brady's birthday was three days later, so that's how we celebrated.
Lilli had so much fun bowling. Despite the fact that it took 20 minutes for the ball to get to the pins...it was still fun. She was super cute.
Aidan wanted to participate...poor little guy!
Shari bowling
Alex & Kennan...
Kennan thought he was pretty cool

Slow-motion bowling (I sometimes don't claim them!)
Papa keeping Aidan happy.
Something sure was FUNNY!
Finally Aidan got a turn! He was so happy....
I let Alex have a turn too...lol, he was pretty funny...both the boys seemed to know where they weren't supposed to go, because they'd take off and get as close as they could to the bowling lane before someone caught them...they thought it was pretty hilarious! What cute kids they are!

So...apparently McKenzie has some boyfriends from all over who send her lots of stuff. Well she got this package from a boy from a certain town where I'm sure all us cokeville girls had a boyfriend or two from...But inside was this shirt (that totally smelled like cologne!) and some ring pops. We decided to have Lilli try it on..

So those were the my adventures from a couple of weeks ago...

and this is random, but Kennan didn't even tell me about this...So, Santa gave Kennan some Jazz vs Suns (my fave team) tickets for Christmas, and the game was April 14 i think....Well, they showed up early and went down courtside to see if they could get some autographs....and Kennan got STEVE NASH'S autograph (he's my fave player)....and Kennan didn't even tell me! How totally unfair is that? I think I'm going to have to steal it from him!!!

Anywho....so yeah, that's a bit of an update...Things here are good. Work is good. Training was 4 days of super boringness, but it wasn't too horrible! Friday was my first day at the branch here, and let's just say I made a really good impression!! I'll update this a little more later...but it's going good so far, so I'm glad about that! :D...So yeah...that's all!

LONG POST AHEAD!

2010-04-25T22:50:00.002-06:00

Alright, first....I GOT A JOB! haha...I have been 'trying' for the past 2+ years to get a job (okay, not really trying too hard until the past year or so!) Well, I have applied to about 20 jobs via email, and didn't hear anything. Finally I got a call one morning from a guy from one of the banks I applied at. He wanted to do a phone interview, so I went ahead and did it. After the phone interview he said that they'd let me know by Tuesday (it was Thursday when he called) After I got off the phone, I just felt so calm and peaceful. For the past few months I've been feeling on edge and really...I don't even know how to explain it, but it kinda sucked to be honest with ya...lol...But after that I felt SO CALM. Well, Tuesday came, and I was up at 8 in the am WAITING for the call...lol...well, Greg went to work at 4:30, and about 4 we were sitting there talking about how frustrating it was and I just started crying. I was SOOO frustrated because that was the ONLY contact that I'd had in the past 2 years. Well, Greg goes to work, and about 4:35 I get a call from the place wanting to do a second interview! I WAS SOOOO EXCITED! But also super nervous. I had Greg give me a blessing because I just wanted to do well, and have the confidence that I'd been lacking. I thought the interview went REALLY well. The manager is from Wyoming (rawlins) so we were able to talk and joke about how great it was. I didn't know how I felt about the interview. There's always so many things I wish I'd said once I left, but I'm sure that's how it is for everyone. But he told me he would let me know by Friday.

So, Friday came and went, and needless to say, I was pretty upset. Back to the beginning! So I sent out about 5 more applications that day....Well, the next thursday I woke up at about 8, and I looked at my phone to see what time it was. My phone had no service, and it wouldn't show me the time. I had to look at the world clock to see, but decided to just go back to sleep. I woke up at about 11:30 and my phone still had no service...so I got out of bed, and restarted it. Once it pulled up it showed I had a voicemail, so I checked it thinking it was one of the other places I had just applied to. To my SURPRISE, it was the first guy I intereviewed with saying, "I just talked to Danny, and I have some good news for you." Oh my heck, I couldn't stop smiling! I was so excited, so I called him back, and I got the job. I don't know if I was just too impatient and I thought he might the Friday before, or the next Friday...or maybe they offered it to the other two (there were only 3 interviews) and they didn't want it...lol, but I don't care either way. I got the job, and I'm SOOO excited about it. It's at a bank, and I have a great shift, and only have to work every other Saturday. I'm super excited, and I know that this will be a good job for me. The Lord knows what is best for me and Greg, and even if it took this long, and though I would get frustrated, I knew that we would be okay. It's really not like I HAVE to get a job, but it will help. So I can't wait. I start tomorrow and have to do training in SLC this week. We'll see how it goes. I'm nervous/excited/anxious! I hope it goes well! :D

(oh, and this is a total side note, but in the past week since I accepted the job, I heard back from TWO other places I applied!! What the heck?!? oh well....at least I know that 2 other people who need jobs will get those jobs!) But thanks for all your thoughts and prayers! I'll let you know how it goes!!

Vanillabees Giveaway

2010-04-15T13:54:00.003-06:00

Who doesn't love some awesome giveaways. There is another one going on over at Vanillabees.com. Head over and enter for your chance to win a GC to Paint the Moon photography boutique. http://vanillabees.com/?p=392