Angelina's Kitchen Corner

Rollercoaster of Emotion

2012-02-11T22:50:00.001-08:00

Its been quite a crazy couple of weeks with good news and bad. The boy that I talked about in my last post received a miracle. After being in the hospital on a heart and lung machine and feeding tube he is at home. It truly was a miracle and quite an experience for our ward. They made a page on face book so we could keep up with the updates and he had over 700 followers! If that doesn't say something about him and his family I don't know what does. I am so happy it was a good outcome in the end of such a horrible story.
The bad news of the last couple of weeks is about my aunt Kim. After she got her cancer removed they did tests and found that she still had it in her arm. The choices to amputate her arm from the elbow down or die. How is that even a choice? It broke my heart to hear this news and I just wanted to be closer to her so I could hug her. I know that she will figure things out and do as much as she can with one hand. I just feel so bad because after so many years of being cancer free it came back and took her arm. I am doing Relay for life again this year and it makes me want to fight harder when things like this happen. Cancer has taken way too many of my family and friends.
On my last day off I told my roommate Trish we needed to get away to the coast. It was suppose to be a beautiful day and it was. It was almost in the 60's and for the Oregon coast that is amazing weather. We went shopping to some outlet stores and just relaxed it was so nice. Sometimes you just need to do that to clear your mind for a day.

Sad Story

2012-01-29T17:44:00.000-08:00

We had a pretty sad day at church today. We learned that a family in our ward had an accident on Saturday night. A father and his 15 year old son and a really good friend of the dad (who is also in the ward)went kayaking. They started out in Corvallis which is the town next to ours. They were planning to go down the river together. They were doing fine until the son got to far over and kind of got caught up in some limbs. He fell out of his kayak but managed to grab a hold of it to hold on. They were all wearing life jackets thank goodness. They were close by a park so they were trying to get over to get out. The only one to make it out was the friend and he quickly called 911. They went down 6 more miles before they were able to get them out. The son had been in the water over an hour and it was only 44 degrees. He went unconcious and it took them an hour to get his heart started again. They took him to the hospital and then up to Portland to the OSHU. He is in very critical condition and has not woken up yet. We had a ward fast for him starting tonight and into tomorrow. It was a very sad day lots of tears and sadness. We are praying for the best for this family.

Rain Rain go Away!

2012-01-23T20:21:00.001-08:00

This last week it started to rain on Monday then it changed to snow. Then on Tuesday afternoon it turned back to rain and didn't stop until Thursday!! That's right it rained straight through Wednesday without stopping! For awhile we were all worried at work because they kept closing roads. Alot of us live outside of the valley we work in and there are only 2 roads out. Everything started to flood and it got pretty bad. My parent's even called me because my hometown made it on the news!! It was a sad story of a family that got swept up in the water and the dad and 1 boy got out but the mom and baby drown:( It has calmed down quite a bit since then but don't worry we still have rain in the forecast!
Meanwhile up and my sister Lisa's house in Washington she was getting dumped on with snow!! It was pretty awful since they are not use to getting that much at a time. It dropped 4-6 inches and then it rained so it turned to ice. Not a pretty commute at all! Over 250 thousand people lost there electricity and there are still 50 thousand still without. This last weekend I had planned to go up to her house and move her to her new apartment. After all the crap with the storm I was very hesitant. The forecast said it was suppose to rain and get warmer so I thought why not! I got up there on Friday night and it was a really scary drive. It was really slushy and there was still snow on the sides. I didn't know what we were going to do the next day but we both prayed hard. When we woke up on Saturday it wasn't doing anything and it had started melting a lot. We were so excited we got started around 9 and about 4 we were done. Right after carrying up the last load it started to rain. We really lucked out! It was fun to be with my sister and help her. We got to play games and watch movies and went to a fun container store. We always eat too much and just enjoy each others company. I can't wait to go visit again! Maybe next time I will luck out and get sunshine! The first 3 pictures are in Oregon right around where I live. The other 2 are in Seattle but you would think they are in Utah!

Aunt Kim

2012-01-11T07:56:00.001-08:00

This is my aunt Kim isn't she gorgeous! About 23 years ago she was diagnosed with Cancer. I don't remember what kind I just remember how horribly sick she got. After going through chemo and radiation she went into remission. We never thought we would have to hear she was dealing with it again. She works as a lunch lady at the middle school. She hit her arm when she was working and it hurt more then normal but she didn't think anything. A week or 2 later she hit it again on something and after a few days it started looking infected. She went and had it checked out and heard the devastating news. She has been diagnosed with epitheloid sarcoma a very rare cancer that began growing in her arm.This time it cant be treated with radiation or chemotherapy, so the only thing that can be done is surgery or amputation. To someone who cooks for a living this is not good news. She is also the most amazing seamstress. She went in and had the surgery it took them 3 hours and they took quite a bit out of her arm. I would post the picture but you might have a weak stomach. She went in yesterday to get it checked out to see if they had gotten all the cancer and still is waiting for results. If anyone can fight this she can she is one of the strongest women I know. They have had their fair share of heartaches. Her daughter was diagnosed with lukemia around the same time she was dealing with her cancer the first time. She was also 8 month's pregnant at the time so she wasn't able to do any chemo until the baby came. Its been a hard trial for the family but they have got through it. I know they will deal with whatever is given to them this time too. I am so thankful for strong examples of faith in my life. My aunt has been a rock and comforted everyone around her during this. We have been praying and fasting for her and hopefully it will be a good outcome. We just have to keep the faith!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-05T09:00:00.000-08:00

I know I have been absent awhile but I have been really busy! I went home for a week for Christmas and was on the run literally the whole time! My mom always makes lists of things she wants to do so we keep busy. It was a nice time home and I always get emotional when I have to go. This time was especially hard because we had to say goodbye to my grandma's house. It has been sold and will have a new owner soon. Growing up we moved around A LOT and I never really had a place to call home. Home was basically where my family was not a location. I did however have one place that I always thought of as my home and that was my grandma's house. My sister and I spent so much of our lives there growing up. My grandparent's never seemed to be upset that we were always just coming over. We loved the safe loving feeling you got when you went. Grandma always welcomed you with open arms and made you feel like you were the best thing ever. So saying goodbye to that place was like saying goodbye to my own house. So many memories around every corner and nobody could ever replace that in my mind. There is a song my grandma and my mom and aunts sing called home and its so perfect for the way I feel about that place. They sang it at her funeral and it was such a tribute to her.

When shadows fall
And trees whisper, "Day is ending",
My thoughts are forever wending home.
When crickets call,
My heart is forever yearning
Once more to be returning home.

When the hills conceal the setting sun,
Stars begin a-peeping, one by one.
Night covers all,
And though fortune may forsake me,
Sweet dreams will ever take me home.

One other thing I wanted to mention when I went home is our family singalong. We love to sing around the piano till none of us have a voice anymore. This rarely happens because we are all spread out and dont get to come together very often. I love it when we sing we sound really good. I know that sounds arrogant but we really do sound good. Everyone sings a different part and we blend really well! Anyway we were going through singing everybody's favorite Christmas song and my brother Mark wanted Once in Royal David's City. I thought that was interesting that he chose that song out of all the more popular ones. So I asked him why it was his favorite and he said because of the 3rd verse. So I read it and it brought tears to my eyes. What a beautiful verse that brings peace and comfort! I love our Hymns! Here is the last verse:

And our eyes at last shall see Him,
Through His own redeeming love;
For that Child so dear and gentle,
Is our Lord in heaven above:
And He leads His children on,
To the place where He is gone.

Zoo lights!

2011-12-18T07:42:00.000-08:00

It has been a very busy month! My calendar can't hold too much more. I have done lots of fun things this month so I have a few posts to do. My friend really wanted to go to the zoo for her birthday. I was really wondering about her since its in December! She told me about the zoo lights so I was curious to see what it was like. So we went and it was really pretty! There were so many lights everywhere that I could have put 50 pictures on here easy! They had a fun train ride but it was really cold and my feet were getting numb. They didn't have any of the animals out so that was kind of sad. We did see a few monkey's and other things that were in an indoor setting.They had these different character's walking around that you could take your picture with. They always had a bunch of people with them so I was happy to catch Rudolph just coming out and nobody was around! It was really fun but next year I am going to dress warmer!

101 things I know...

2011-12-05T08:17:00.000-08:00

A year ago today my cousin Shawna passed from this life free of pain. At her funeral her sister read a list of 101 things she knew. It inspired me to do the same and I wanted to share the list with you. Its very random but I wrote it as soon as I thought it. I encourage you all to make a list too its fun to go back and read. I sure miss her and think of her everyday.

1-god lives
2-god will help us we just have to ask
3-Jesus died for us
4-Jesus bled in Gethsemane for our sins
5-Joseph Smith was a true prophet of god
6-the pioneers had remarkable faith and endured much
7-Death is not the end
8-I hate goodbyes
9-I grow way to close to people
10-My grandparents have taught me by example
11-My grandparents are some of the most amazing people I have known
12-My mother doesn't give herself enough credit
13-My dad is full of ideas and common sense
14-My siblings are all very unique and have many talents
15-I love to sing with my family
16-I make friends for life
17-Money doesn't buy happiness
18-Do what your told to do when your told to do it
19-I love to watch fireworks
20-I am proud to be an American
21-I love the flag and what it stands for
22-I am so honored to know my grandpa's fought for my freedom
23-People die trying to defend our freedom everyday
24-I love being an aunt
25-Marching band was one of the best things of my life
26-My nieces and nephew have brilliant imaginations
27-I love camping
28-Family vacations brought us close as family
29-board games are fun with people that enjoy playing
30-my favorite color has always been red
31-people can damage your soul
32-hymns are powerful messages
33-I love country music
34-Boys will break your heart
35-We go through trials to make us stronger people
36-There is beauty all around when there's love at home
37-I have been deeply hurt by people I love
38-General Conference gives me a spiritual high
39-I love the cemetery and the history you can read about there
40-I love walking with my mom
41-I have disappointed people
42-My love for others is really overwhelming
43-Michael Jackson was an amazing singer and dancer
44-life can be hard
45-cooking calms my soul
46-I am a genuine person
47-crying helps heal people
48-grudges make us weak
49-we are here to be tested
50-pictures are worth a 1000 words
51-debt causes sadness and defeat
52-death is sad if you dont have the gospel
53-coloring is peaceful
54-camping is the best therapy
55-losing weight is overwhelming
56-I hate being fat
57-I hate being judged by others
58-We can only help others so much then they have to help themselves
59-The mountains are breathtaking
60-I hate to hike
61-I love Utah State Aggie Basketball
62-family traditions are the best
63-cooking makes me happy
64-life isn't fair
65-people can be really mean
66-I judge people way to quickly
67-I would do anything to bring someone happiness
68-Satan is real
69-I hate to run
70-I love to watch the ocean waves
71-I might not marry in this life
72-Disneyland is a magical place
73-I love how happy I get when I go to Disneyland
74-I love animals I just can't be around them
75-I hate having allergies
76-Ingrown toenails are the worst
77-I love having smores and stories around the campfire
78-I love to swim but hate deep water
79-Temptations are of the devil
80-I love hot chocolate
81-I love to fall asleep to the sound of rain
82-I love the spirit you feel from music
83-The Mormon Tabernacle Choir sing like Angels
84-I love the peace I feel at the temple
85-we have a living prophet of God who loves us
86-I love my cousins
87-I love to go on walks
88-I love to take drives up the canyon
89-I love Nauvoo and the history there
90-Chicago pizza and hot dogs are the best
91-My aunts and uncles are some of the most amazing people
92-There are always 2 sides to every story
93-I love the smell of a new baby
94-I hate hospitals and needles
95-I have a very tender heart
96-Crying is a good way to cleanse the soul
97-I loved listening to my grandma play the Uke and sing
98-I love elderly people
99-Cancer has taken way to many people in my life
100-you don't know what you have got till its gone
101-You can do anything you put your mind to

Elder Hardwick

2011-11-27T18:20:00.001-08:00

This is Elder Hardwick with a little attitude because he loves pictures. He was called to the Eugene Oregon mission. Last year he was transferred down to Albany and into our ward. He was a great guy and had lots of energy toward missionary work. There were lots of inactive people he got to come back to church. There was just something about him that made people draw to him. This last Wednesday night he was killed in a horrible plane accident. Here is the article its so sad...

All 6 Confirmed Dead in Arizona Plane Crash
APACHE JUNCTION, Ariz. - Three children and three adults are confirmed dead following a small plane crash and explosion in the Superstition Mountains east of Phoenix.
Authorities have released their names:
Russell Hardy, 31, Thatcher, AZ, co-pilot and partial owner of the aircraft - married with a 3-year-old son
Joseph Hardwick, 22, Safford, AZ, airplane mechanic - youngest of seven children and engaged to be married next month
Shawn Perry, 39, Safford, AZ, co-pilot - divorced father of three
Morgan Perry, 9, Gold Canyon, AZ
Logan Perry, 8, Gold Canyon, AZ
Luke Perry, 6, Gold Canyon, AZ

According to the Pinal County Sheriff's Office, the plane originated in Safford and landed at Mesa's Falcon Field about 4:30 p.m. Wednesday to pick up Perry's children, who lived in Gold Canyon with their mother Karen. The goal was to take them back to Safford to celebrate Thanksgiving.
"We express our deep sympathy to the families. The remains of all of these loved ones are being handled with great care and compassion, and working with the medical examiners to identify the bodies at this point," said Sheriff Babeu.
"These people were all very close, there were all family, even though they were not related."
Babeu added that he met with the families personally and that they are distraught.
"For me personally, in talking with family members, it is not easy. We have to maintain our professionalism and courtesy, I just wanted to tell them personally we were doing everything possible to maintain the dignity of their loved one and to safeguard their memories... we're heartbroken with them."
The plane refueled and departed Falcon Field about 6:15 p.m. While ascending, the plane was unable to clear the height of the Superstition Mountains -- and crashed into the Flat Iron peak, elevation 4,500 feet.The plane split in two and burst into flames.
"No one could survive that crash... we didn't want to give false hope, even though our efforts are to rescue and to save life, that was not possible," said Babeu.
A recovery operation began and by the end of the night, one child's body had been recovered. At midnight, search efforts were suspended until daybreak. The crash occurred in a part of the mountain range that is very rugged, and because of the explosion, debris was strewn over a large area.By Thursday, the remaining victims were confirmed dead.

This really struck home with me just how important life is. We need to make sure to tell people we love how much all the time. I had an uncle that was killed in a similar accident when he was 21 and I never got to meet him. He was the only boy and I know my grandpa was devastated to go identify his remains in a green garbage bag. He was married and had a 1 year old little boy. Unfortunatley they chose not to be apart of our family. I always wondered what my cousin looked like what his interests were. I finally got to see him this year at my grandma's viewing. I often wonder how happy my grandparent's were to see their son after so many years. I really feel for these families that have been put through this tragedy. At least we have the gospel to make us feel peace. I know that the family that lost the dad and 3 kids were not members of our church. Can you imagine how devastating that would be to attend those funerals? I am so glad for the gospel!

this and that

2011-11-25T11:41:00.000-08:00

Its been awhile since I wrote on my blog. I really haven't had that much to blog about lately. I have been working a lot lately which is one of the main reasons I got sick. Dont worry though I started feeling yucky on my first day off. I spent Thanksgiving in bed watching a marathon of Muppet movies they had on tv. Nothing can make me feel better then that:) Today I am feeling a little bit better so I am happy about that. I felt bad that I wasn't with family for the holiday's. That is one of the hard parts of living away from home. I had planned to go to my sister's but my car just wasn't up for it. Its getting old and not wanting to run like I want it to. I still can't believe the holiday's are here! I have some shopping done but not as much as I need to have done at this point. I am doing a lot of homemade stuff this year which I am happy about. I love Christmas time the music, the joy of remember the savior's birth, the decorations and lights. People reaching out to help other people. Today when I was out I saw firemen out with boots collecting money for kids with muscular dystrophy. It seriously brought tears to my eyes when people were rolling down their windows handing over money left and right. That's what the holiday's are all about not all the greediness you feel when you go shopping on black Friday. Sorry for all the rambling maybe its the medicine:) I hope everyone had a happy Thanksgiving!

hard decisions

2011-11-14T13:36:00.000-08:00

This last weekend was a very difficult one for my mom's side of the family. With the passing of my grandma in May they knew they would have to sell the house. As much as we wanted to keep it in the family and turn things around we just couldn't do it. This was a very difficult thing for my mom and her sister's. They would have loved to keep it so we could have family things there. They did find an amazing buyer for the house that promised to keep the place as much the same as possible. He is going to be doing a lot of remodeling and upkeep. I know it wont be the same driving past and not being able to go there.
It has been really hard for me to hear about all the decisions. I know its for the best but I have had so many memories there. I know you can always take them with you but its hard to not have that place to go to. I am writing a poem about my grandma's house and when I get it done I will post it. Then maybe it will be easier to understand the way I feel...

Happy Anniversary Reunion

2011-11-04T21:15:00.000-07:00

Today would have been my grandparent's 63rd wedding anniversary. Now that they have both passed on I am sure it was a wonderful reunion. They were the perfect couple so good for each other. They got married later in life but I know it was fate that put them together. When my grandpa passed away I thought my grandma would die from a broken heart. They were 2 peas in a pod and were just too cute. They were always found holding hands watching TV. They loved doing crossword puzzles and eating popcorn and dont forget the Pepsi! I am so happy they are together today even though I am missing them so much. I think its always the hardest the first year of holidays when they are not around. I am not looking forward to the holiday's with grandma gone now. She was born in December and Christmas was her favorite holiday. I spent so many hours at her house helping her decorate for the holidays. We listened to music and watched the Lawrence Welk Christmas. She made the holiday's so happy for me. I have a pit in my stomach just thinking about her not being here this year. I just have to think how happy she is now and it makes it a bit happier.

ABC

2011-10-24T21:38:00.000-07:00

There have been a few people that keep sending me this so I decided I would do it. You feel free to put it on your blog too!

Age:36 yikes!
Bed Size: too small a single
Chore you hate: cleaning the bathroom yuck!
Dogs: allergies
Essential start of your day: waking up on time and good breakfast
Favorite Color: red, red, red ok you get it
Gold or silver: Silver
Height: 5'9 1/2 I am shrinking I use to be 5'10!
Instruments I play (or have played): piano, flute, recorder
Job Title: Cook at an assisted living place
Kids: nope not yet but other peoples kids are adorable
Live: Oregon:)
Mom's Name: Brenda, aka-mumsy
Nickname: Ang, G, Angelina, Pete ya that's an inside joke
Overnight hospital stays: Nope thank goodness!
Pet Peeve: people that don't pullover for emergency vehicles, people that cut me off when I am talking
Quote from a movie: No matter how you figure it I still don't get as much as everybody else!
Right: wrong
Siblings: two beautiful sisters and two very smart brothers
Time you wake up: depends on the day ideally after 8!
Underwear: yes please
Vegetables you dislike: asparagus, sprouts, spinach, mushrooms
What makes you run late: procrastination, no gas in my car!
X-rays you've had done: how much time do you have?
Yummy food you make: well I have been told I make lots of good stuff, I do love to cook so that helps:)
Zoo animal: Elephants

YOUR TURN!

Canning

2011-10-19T07:19:00.001-07:00

Salsa!

Pears

Raspberry Jam

Applesauce

Apple Pie in a Jar!

This month has been so exhausting! I have been doing canning every Monday with a few ladies from the ward. It has been really fun and rewarding but A LOT of work! As you can see we have been busy making things. The biggest day we have had is making applesauce. We made 130 quarts which isn't bad considering we were making it for 5 families! Its so good and it brings back lots of memories from my grandma's house. We set up outside because it was so messy. Our Relief Society president is quite something she had this whole area outside set up. There were 5 camp chef stoves and 4 large tables and a camp canopy because of course it was raining the day we did it. It all worked out so great but we were exhausted! The newest thing I have tried this year is apple pie in a jar! Its the cutest thing you have ever seen! I had to steal the picture off the website we got it from because I didn't take a picture. You basically make a small apple pie in a jar throw a lid and ring on it and put it in the freezer. When your craving pie you get one out let it warm up a bit so it doesn't shatter in the oven cook it 40 minutes and walah pie! When I go home for Christmas I told my mom its on our to do list. My dad is always craving pie so this will be perfect for the 2 of them. Other things I have canned this year and didn't get pictures of: spiced apple and pear jam, pear marmalade, apple butter,and strawberry freezer jam. I am so grateful that I was able to help my grandma and mom growing up so I know how to do these things. Its been such a fun thing to do and gives me such a sense of accomplishment.

Sandcastle Contest

2011-10-17T14:44:00.000-07:00

August 13th

I love going to the Sandcastle contests they have at the coast. We missed the big one that I love at Seaside but we did get to this one at Lincoln City. It was a lot smaller then the other one but still amazing to see what people make out of sand! I only had a few pictures so I thought I would share those. We met the Tolman's and another family the Meekins and did some kite flying and playing in the sand. Then we went to Mo's for dinner. Since I hate fish and seafood this is not the place for me but Trish was in 7th heaven! They did have some good chicken though. It was a fun weekend.

Camping

2011-10-17T14:31:00.000-07:00

Aug,10-13

We went camping with the Tolman's out to River Bend in Sweet Home again this year. We had lots of fun playing games, doing crafts, playing in the river and roasting marshmallows. We love spending time with their family they are great!

Happy Birthday Satina

2011-10-17T14:21:00.000-07:00

August 5th

I know I have talked about this awesome family before. The Tolman's have welcomed Trish and I into their home and hearts. We adopted each other since our families live far away. They are so awesome we love hanging out at their house! The mom Satina loves the smurfs! I mean REALLY loves them so I got this idea to smurf her house for her birthday! Trish did all the hard work of cutting the smurfs out and laminating them. We snuck over at 5 in the morning and got it done before I had to go to work. I thought it was lots of fun and she was so surprised. Her kids had fun going around and looking at all the different smurfs. I sent her on a treasure hunt and her prize was a smurfette lunch box with snicker bars. I hope she had a fun time cause I sure did planning it!

Summertime

2011-10-06T16:00:00.000-07:00

July 2011

I got the chance to go home in July and I was pretty nervous. This was the first time going home since my grandma passed away. I have never not got to see her when I go home and I was beginning to get the pit in my stomach. It was a fun trip and it was great to see the family. I was able to spend time with my nieces and nephew too. We had a little picnic down at the box elder campground and that was fun. Then we went over to my aunt's house in Mantua for little valley days. They basically celebrate their town for a weekend and end it on Saturday night with fireworks. That was also hard for me because we were at my cousin Shawna's house and she had passed away in December. So I saw the pictures on the wall of her and it brought tears to my eyes. I know its good to move on and remember the memories but sometimes I just want to talk to the person! I was able to see my good friend Julie and spend Sunday with her. She taught Sunday School and did a great job. I went up to the cemetery to visit my grandma. It was a great trip and I always look forward to coming home. (photos are thanks to my sister in law Olya) My camera doesn't like me at the moment.

Elijah loved the light sticks they were handing out before the fireworks

Anya fell asleep waiting for the fireworks. She really hates loud noises so I had to cover her ears.

Anya got so dirty at the campground when we had our lunch. She is showing her messy hands.

Maya was in heaven with the pony rides!

This is Ivy in all her cuteness! She doesn't usually have to do anything but smile and she melts your heart

Relay for life

2011-10-03T08:47:00.000-07:00

June 17th/18th

I am so far behind in blogging but I am going to get caught up! Thanks to the 2 comments I got when I said I was overwhelmed with blogging. I know its important and really its my only journal! So I am starting a new week and thought I would start on a good note! So be patient and enjoy my blogs!

After losing so many people to cancer this year I decided to do something about it. I wasn't going to just sit by and let it take away everything I love so much. My friend Satina sent out an email asking if anyone would like to join her in doing relay for life. She lost her brother to cancer and had the same feelings. I didn't really know what it was so I looked into it. Its an event that is put on every year to help raise money for cancer research. It happens all over the united states and there are tons of people that get involved. You basically have a team captain and a team and you try and raise as much money as you can.Satina was our team captain and asked if I would like to be a co captain with her. It was a ton of work and frustrating at times. I will try and explain what goes on so you know a little bit about it. On the day of the event you are assigned a place to set up your group for the next 24 hours. You can choose to sell things if you want or like this year was a game theme so you can have a game people play. The theme for our event was "Winning at the game of Life". I decided to tackle the food booth and sell tacos and taco salads, lemonade and homemade oreo's. I thought it was a pretty big hit the only problem was missing out on things going on because I was stuck in there. Anyway so its not really a race you walk on a track. We had ours at a high school so we just walked on the track. They start out with just the cancer survivors walking or being pushed in wheelchairs around the track. That was pretty emotional seeing all of those people and thinking about the ones I had just lost. After that you have to have at least 1 member of your team on the track at all times. We had people sign up for 1 hour slots. They made each hour lots of fun with different themes. Then they had a luminara ceremony which was really cool. We had previously sold these bags for 5 dollars and people could decorate them for their loved ones that either passed away from cancer or survived. I had my family members decorate some of them for our loved ones. We put sand in the bottom of them with a candle and then they were lit up.They were lined up around the track. It was really touching to go around the track and read them. It was a pretty emotional time but I felt good. I raised almost 400 dollars my self and our team raised close to 5,000. Our overall event raised 145,000 which was 20,000 past what they thought they would do. I am excited to do it again this year! Anyway that wants to donate towards a good cause I would love it!

Here is a picture of Kim who is in charge of the whole event, Satina, Trish and Rachel

My roommate Trish playing her uke around the track for her turn.

This is our banner our team was called Walking with Angels. We wrote all of those people we were walking for on there.

Here are some of the luminara bags that me and my family made.

Overwhelmed

2011-09-26T15:44:00.001-07:00

Do you ever feel so overwhelmed with your blog? I think I am at that point right now. I have a few things I still need to blog but cant seem to get with it to do it. That's what happens when you dont have internet forever! I will try and get organized and get some stuff up so you can see what I have been up to.

This and that and pictures

2011-07-31T14:22:00.001-07:00

I know I haven't been around lately. I moved and with that came no internet. I only get to the library every once in awhile. I still need to blog about my experience with Relay for life. I will do that when I get another chance. I wanted to post something kind of fun this time around. Not that relay wasn't fun but very emotional and uplifting. My sister and I drove home to Utah for my grandma's funeral in May. It was a fun road trip but given more time we could have made it even funner! Is that even a word? Anyway we played lots of music ate lots of food. Some of it we brought was fun because we both brought things we use to eat when we went on trips as kids. I still cant believe that we were able to chew hubba bubba gum. After attempting to chew some this time we could barley talk we were laughing so hard. I guess you had to be there but still:) My friend told me this fun game she played when they went on road trips and I wanted to try it. You take pictures of fun signs you see or different things you find interesting. I took a few pictures of nostalgic signs too. It was really quite fun and I might have gotten carried away:)So I warned you now that there are lots of pictures. I hope you enjoy them:)

Memorial Day Weekend

2011-06-20T16:06:00.000-07:00

May 27th,2011

My sister Lisa and I had already decided to get together over Memorial day. Even though we both had just taken time off for the funeral. We agreed we needed some fun instead of sadness. So on Friday her and her roommate came down for the weekend! I was really excited to see them and do some fun stuff! We hung around and watched movies and relaxed on the first day. On Saturday we were up and gone early to head to the coast. We wanted to go to Heceta head lighthouse first so we put it on the Gps and had quite a scenic back road adventure. We even crossed poodle creek road but didn't see any poodles:( We finally got to Heceta head and hiked up to the lighthouse keeper's house. I was feeling kind of woozy from all the corner's taken in the car so I sat on the porch while Amy and Lisa walked to the light house. It was so relaxing just sitting there listening to the ocean I found myself dozing off. After that we drove down a ways and started looking for a place to eat. We came across the blue whale cafe and of course just dove in. They were pretty busy because of the weekend and I was tempted to leave but just then the 1 and only waitress showed up! We had some pretty good burgers. We decided since the weather was gorgeous (and that NEVER happens at the Oregon Coast) we would play on the beach.We had so much fun and got just a little bit on the wet side oops! We headed for the Oregon Coast Aquarium which I think everyone had the same idea. We saw some pretty crazy things there like an anaconda snake that was 18 feet long! We also saw some pretty neat fish and some sharks. It was fun and I had lucked out and gotten tickets on sale for Lisa and Amy. That place is usually pretty expensive. After that we went down to the bay front to pick up our usual Aunt Belinda's famous soft taffy. Of course no trip is complete without stopping at the Dairy Queen for an ice cream treat. It was a really fun day and the weather was so great! We didn't really do much the rest of the time they were here except our usual games, games, games! I love to do that as much as anything and eating and talking. Time goes to quickly and soon they had to head back home. We had so much fun and laughed alot. I cant wait till they come back for another visit!

Look at the gorgeous ocean

At first glance out the car window

Sandcastle cake

Ta da we did it!

making a sand castle cake before the tide comes in

Get back here comes the water

just going to walk in the water

bridge and cool sky behind Amy and Lisa

I thought this would be a fun idea for a picture and it turned out!

My cool sister driving

The view sitting on the porch of the lighthouse keeper's house!

Taking a little break for a picture

Lisa with the bridge in the background

The ocean before hiking up to the lighthouse

Memories of Grandma's

2011-06-20T15:44:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken only a week before my grandma passed away! This is how I always remember her. With a smile and a wave to hurry back.

This probably just looks like a junky desk to most people. This is my grandpa's desk full of memories. He sat at this desk day after day typing one key at a time making a journal of all the years he was married.My grandma would write too if he was to tired to do it. They didn't ever miss a single day.

This is called the shack or as my grandma called it the Dream house. It had mosquito netting around it. There was a big double bed and a lamp out there and it was a favorite spot of the cousins. We loved sleeping there and occasionally in the afternoon we found grandma and grandpa taking a snooze:)

I have been thinking alot about grandma's and all the memories I have with her. I just wanted to write them down. I know there are lots more but these are some of my top favorites.

your love of flowers and spending time in your greenhouse and your garden of eden
your good hotcakes with homemade raspberry jam
your love of singing and your sweet voice
all of the stories you would read and games you would play
the fun sleepovers at your house with popcorn and pepsi and the crossword
decorating for Christmas time and listening to music
driving around looking at the lights
singing endless christmas songs while you played the uke
Christmas goodie bags and matching pajama's
finding Easter baskets in your huge yard
playing in the irrigation water for hours
making flower arrangements and taking them to the cemetery for Memorial day
having you bring us picnic lunches in the old playhouse
swinging on the rope swing
canning all kinds of fruits and veggies
relaxing in the gazebo with a glass of pink lemonade or eskimo pie
watching you lead the singing at church when we would visit
hiding under the covers with you during a storm
running around the yard with sparklers and having our own mini fireworks show
feeding the fish
watching the moon flowers open at night
helping you with cooking and enjoying your cooking
washing dishes
watching general conference and playing bingo
how fun you made birthdays
sleeping out in the shack
swimming in the nice warm pool outside
helping with my homework
always laughing about everything and making up fun stories and songs
watching lawrence welk with you

I am going to really miss you grandma! Till we meet again may God bless you!

Goodbye and memories of grandma

2011-06-20T15:17:00.000-07:00

May 17th,2011

My grandma Jean Braegger passed away on May 10th, 2011 very peacefully. I wanted to mention that 2 hours before she passed away I said a prayer asking Heavenly Father to please let her go in peace. I feel it was an answer to a prayer to hear that she did so. My aunt was by her side when she slipped through the veil to meet her sweetheart of 50 plus years. I knew it was going to be a great reunion since most of her friends were gone. She left a hole in my heart that continues to ache for her. What can I say I spent so much more time with her then any other grandchild. I have so many memories of her because I chose to be there as much as I was. I will be forever grateful for that opportunity. I was asked to give a small talk at her funeral about some of the grand kids memories. I knew I would have a really hard time with this. I decided to ask my dad for a blessing the day of. I was such a wreck after the family prayer and even after the first speaker started. I had a neat experience happen as soon as the speaker was almost finished I stopped crying. I was calm and at peace. I got up and said my talk without hesitation. Only when I started thinking about what I was saying did I get teary. The grand kids had to sing right after that and I thought we sounded great. For only having 1 practice right before the program it really came together. I was able to cry the rest of the service. I know grandma was pleased looking down at us during the service. The people that did the flowers really out did themselves. The sprays on her casket and right next to it were so beautiful. We all took a flower after the prayer at the cemetery. Here are some pictures of that day.

Right before the family prayer

Lisa and Ivy

The flower arrangement from the grandkids

Her spray on top of the casket

The program

A horrible picture of me looking pregnant. I just picked a flower from her arrangement to have dried.

My cousin picking her flower

Grandma's casket which was pink her favorite color!

Grandma

2011-06-19T18:58:00.000-07:00

Did I mention that I have had a really crazy year! Its been so busy mostly with things that make me sad. I have had 3 funerals in 5 months! I don't think anyone should ever have to do that. I think I am finally ready to share my thoughts about my grandma Braegger. Although my grandma was 91 and had no quality of life left this was a hard death for me. I have always been really close with my grandma. We had a special bond and I loved being near her. She always told me that I made her day when I called or came to visit. She was never a negative person. She always had a smile on her face and was so cheerful. After my grandpa passed away my sister and I had a chance to live with her. It was a very special experience that neither one of us will forget. I am so glad she never had to go to a nursing home or retirement place. My aunt Paula and Uncle Kelley made it possible to have her stay with them till the end. They were so good to her and gave up so much. I put a couple of pictures of them how cute are they! I am going to do a different post about the funeral.

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T17:12:00.000-07:00

What Makes A Dad

God took the strength of a mountain,
The majesty of a tree,
The warmth of a summer sun,
The calm of a quiet sea,

The generous soul of nature,
The comforting arm of night,
The wisdom of the ages,
The power of the eagle's flight,

The joy of a morning in spring,
The faith of a mustard seed,
The patience of eternity,
The depth of a family need,

Then God combined these qualities,
When there was nothing more to add,
He knew His masterpiece was complete,
And so, He called it ... Dad

~Author unknown ~

This is such a perfect poem for my dad! He is all of this and more. I am so blessed to have him in my life. I love you dad!

2011-06-09T21:02:00.001-07:00

I have lots of stuff to blog but you will all have to be patient with me. I have has so much on my plate lately. I have a couple of big things coming up.As soon as I get through them I will start blogging and catching up again. Thanks for being understanding.

Photo fun Part 3 finally!

2011-05-23T16:47:00.000-07:00

21.A picture of your favorite video game

I love the wii and I love Toy Story Mania! Its so much fun to play!

22.A picture of anything

I love the mountains and I especially love the flag.

23.A picture of something you miss

This is my grandma B she recently passed away. I cant express how much
I miss her.
24.A picture of something beautiful

I thought this was the coolest tree! Its called the octopus tree. It looks like a giant octopus just upside down. There is no main trunk for it but I just loved the branches!

25.A picture of you doing something physical

If your going to go hiking this is the only way to go. It stayed nice and cool in the trees.

26.A picture of your desktop

I have always been a fan of sunsets! This is one of my favorite pictures.

27.A picture of the weather

This is the weather most of the time where I live. I love the rain always have so maybe its a good thing I live here:)

28.A picture of something you despise

Not only do I hate mushroom's I am allergic to them. I also can't stand lima beans yucky!

29.A picture of your city

You might think this is a hilarious picture of my city but its right next
to the city so I thought it would do:)

30. A picture of someone from your favorite sports team

I have always loved the USU aggies basketball games. The energy from the spectrum is awesome. I think big blue is pretty entertaining too!

Photo fun Part 2

2011-04-26T15:51:00.000-07:00

11. A picture that means a lot to you but not many people will understand

I love the mountains so much and miss them everyday!I also love the Logan temple so pretty!

12. A picture of a celebrity you find attractive

I think the rock is cute! I really think its his dimples that I think are so cute!

13. A picture of your favorite movie

I love Hayley Mills movies! My 2 favorite ones are Parent Trap and Polyanna they just make me smile!

14. A picture of you today

I don't really have many pictures of myself. I am not a fan of having my picture taken. Here I am with my adopted nephews and niece at Omsi.

15.A picture that your hair looks nice in

I really like my hair in this picture. I dont really know why its just cute to me.

16. A picture from the last time you went out of town

This is not from the last time I went out of town because I wanted a happy picture.Last time I was at a funeral and nobody wants to see red eyes. So here I am on the teacups at Disneyland!

17. A picture of you hugging someone

I love Halloween and always throw a fun party. I miss having my parties and having these fun girls to hang around with.

18. A picture of you and your best friend

This is my best friend Trish who puts up with it all no matter how crazy I am. She is one in a million.

19. A picture of you with pets

Anyone that knows me well knows that I am so allergic to anything with fur.I did have some fish but they all died the day before moving to Oregon. So for now I will have to settle for these cute pets:)

20. A picture of your favorite meme

This site cracks me up! If you have never been to see it you should. Its crazy what people think is acceptable to wear at a store. My roommate works there and some of the pictures she sends are as good as this site!

Photo Fun

2011-04-24T19:24:00.000-07:00

My cousin Candy did this on her blog and I thought it was so fun! Then before I could get it done my sister did it too. So I guess the 3rd ones a charm right?:) I am copying my sister's idea and doing 10 at a time instead of 1 a day.

1.Your facebook profile picture

I love this picture so much! 2 of my most favorite people!

2. A picture of yourself a year ago

Gotta love the tulip festival I do!

3. A picture that makes you smile

How could this picture not make you smile! These 2 are the cutest!

4. A photo of your favorite musician/band

Since I have way too many 80's artists that I like I thought I
would cheat a bit and put a choir I love!

5. A photo of a favorite blog

I made this subject up since the photo they wanted was for something
I had never heard of. This is one of my favorite blogs to look at she is
amazing at cake pops! If you ever want to check it out go to bakerella.com

6. A Picture of what you ate today

This is gorilla bread. If you have ever had the famous monkey bread
this is similar only kicked up a notch! So good!

7. A picture of you when you were little

Me and one of my favorite cousins Shawna on moving day.

8. A picture with someone you love

This is my grandma who I love more then anything. We have so
many memories together.

9. A picture of you with friends

Its kind of sad to me that I dont really have many pictures "with"
my friends. I guess I need to get in the picture more. These are only
a few of my good friends that I have pictures of.

10. A picture of you with family

I love my family! This is us at Phil's wedding and I love this picture!

grandmas

2011-04-20T06:21:00.000-07:00

I have had a lot of thoughts going through my head lately about my grandma's. They are amazing people with so much to offer. I have truly learned so much about myself and others through them. They are such strong religious people that have never weakened to anything. They always stuck their ground and held strong. Today is my grandma Joyce's birthday she is in her 80's. You would never guess it though she still drives and goes to the temple. She has her wits about her and knows what is going on. She just lost her husband and it has sure been tough to be alone. She is such a wonderful person and I am sure she will be around for quite awhile. My other grandma is not doing the best anymore. Her quality of life has sure left as she sits day after day sometimes not even knowing who people are. Its really hard to hear and see her like this. I just try and remember all the amazing memories I have of her. There are too many to count! One of my favorites is listening to her sing with her daughters. I could listen to them for hours they should do a cd! One of my favorite songs they sing is called Home. It makes you happy to want to come home and feel the memories there. I know grandma will be going home soon and I am truly happy for her. What a wonderful place to look forward to.
Here are the words to the song:

Evening brings the close of day,
Skies of blue begin to grey,
Crimson hues are fading in the west.
Evening ever brings to me
Dreams of days that used to be,
Memories of those I love the best.

When shadows fall
And trees whisper, "Day is ending",
My thoughts are ever wending home.
When crickets call,
My heart is forever yearning
Once more to be returning home.

When the hills conceal the setting sun,
Stars begin a-peeping, one by one.
Night covers all,
And though fortune may forsake me,
Sweet dreams will ever take me home.

this and that and relay for life!

2011-04-13T06:55:00.001-07:00

Its been awhile since I did a post. I haven't really had anything to write about lately. My job is going about the same and I am keeping really busy with my calling. I am the compassionate service leader in the ward. I have never had the calling so it has really stretched my comfort zone. We have had a lot going on that I have had to organize. We had 2 babies born within 2 weeks of each other and a lady go in for surgery. The saddest was a 27 year old woman that had to get a double masectomy because of cancer. It broke my heart that at such a young age this would be the only option. Cancer has been a huge part of my life. It has taken more people then I want to count. I hate that there isn't a cure and it costs so much to do the research on it. I signed up to do Relay for life and it has been just what I needed to deal with all the death. In case your not familiar with it I will tell you. This is what the website says:

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease. At Relay, teams of people camp out at a local high school, park, or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event. Because cancer never sleeps, Relays are overnight events up to 24 hours in length.

Relay began in 1985 when Dr. Gordy Klatt, a colorectal surgeon in Tacoma, Washington, ran and walked around a track for 24 hours to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Since then, Relay has grown from a single man’s passion to fight cancer into the world’s largest movement to end the disease. Each year, more than 3.5 million people in 5,000 communities in the United States, along with additional communities in 20 other countries, gather to take part in this global phenomenon and raise much-needed funds and awareness to save lives from cancer. Thanks to Relay participants, the American Cancer Society continues to save lives.

Pretty cool I think and worth the tears, sweat and sacrifice to do it. I am doing it in honor of my cousin that lost the battle this last year. I have a bunch of others I am walking for too including my grandpa that just passed away in February. I think it will be a neat experience and help me in the end. I will be sharing a few posts about it in the next couple months. I am excited to have the chance to do it! If you are interested in helping me out and want to donate to the cause let me know and I can send you and email where you can donate:)

Friday Flashback

2011-04-01T06:15:00.000-07:00

I love,love love this picture! Well except the fact that I am showing off my underwear but it gives the picture character right?! These are my 2 best friends my cousins. We grew up together one of them 6 months older and the other 6 months younger. We did it all together and stayed close through the years. They mean everything to me and especially now that one of them has passed on. I am so lucky to have them as my cousins and best friends. So many memories that can never be erased!

Birthday and flashback

2011-03-27T18:08:00.000-07:00

I haven't been doing a very good job with my Friday flashback pictures. Since today is my brother's birthday I thought I would flashback to the good old days. I am so lucky to have such great brother's. Mark and I have always had so much fun growing up. We were great pals and have stayed good friends. He is a great brother and an amazing dad to his kids. Thanks for all the fun memories! This picture is us in our matching pajamas.

What a miracle!

2011-03-18T21:54:00.000-07:00

After hearing all the sadness in Japan its good to hear a happy story! This 4 month girl was actually swept out of her mother's arms during the tsunami. They thought she was gone forever but 3 days later this man found her under a bunch of debris. She was unharmed even though she rode the waves of the tsunami. The place where they found her there were 2000 bodies just down from her. She is obviously here for a reason! I really think the cute little bear outfit helped her stay alive.

Happy Birthday Teina!

2011-03-10T22:23:00.001-08:00

Today my aunt Teina is celebrating her 60th birthday! I love my mom's sister's they are truly amazing women. They are all strong in the gospel and are such good homemaker's. I have always had a special bond with them. I love going to craft boutiques with Teina she is so fun. I have had lots of good talks with her and she is always concerned how I am doing. We laugh a lot and she gives really good hugs. I am so lucky to have a such a great aunt and friend! Love you!

Crazy Weather!

2011-03-10T21:38:00.000-08:00

We are having the craziest weather these days. A couple weeks ago we had snow and when I say that I mean a skiff. To people that are not use to the stuff its a major school and business closure waiting to happen! It got really cold down in the teens and I almost thought I was in Utah! This last week and a half we have had sun and then pouring rain. When I say pouring I am not kidding it sounded like someone was throwing buckets of water at the house. Even with all the craziness I have noticed that the flowers are bound and determined to show themselves! I cant wait for spring to come and everything start blooming!

monthly masterpeice

2011-03-07T14:22:00.000-08:00

I thought it would be fun to post something each month that goes along with the holiday. I saw these cute cupcakes on my friend's blog so I had to share! She put a lot of work into them. She had a white cake mix and separated it out into bowls and made each color of the rainbow. Then she layered them into a cupcake paper so they would be rainbow too!

Flashback Friday

2011-03-04T07:05:00.000-08:00

My friend started doing flashback Friday's and I thought it would be fun too! I dug deep into the photo's for this little beauty from 4th or 5th grade.
Do you ever have pictures where the saying "A pictures worth a thousand words" applies? well I do in fact I have too many! This one is priceless because there are so many things that are classic about it. First of all let's not even talk about the huge stain on my shirt! It makes me look like I got in a food fight! Then there's that wonderful bowl haircut! Anyone can have it you just simply find a mixing bowl that fits to the type of cut you want. Put it on your head and cut around the bowl and waala instant haircut. I am not really sure why I am not wearing the same thing as everyone else. Maybe I didn't know it was game day or I didn't want to wear those amazing short shorts! On a good note I was on the volleyball team for the school and we did pretty awesome!

Happy Birthday Lisa!

2011-02-27T09:06:00.000-08:00

God sent us to be sisters
So we can be best of friends
To be there for one another
Even when there is pain
I thank the Lord for sending my sisters to me
For whom I truly love and care
We shared so many things together
Like laughter and some scares
It’s funny how we sometimes argue
I guess its normal, in this world
But, having you as my sister
Means more to me, more than you'll ever know
I wouldn’t trade you for anything
I will never let go
As our friendship continues to grow
So will my love for you
Just always remember you can talk to me
I'll be the best friend you ever knew

Happy Birthday to one of the sweetest people I know! I love you so much Lee lee:)

Happy Birthday Grandpa Braegger!

2011-02-23T08:02:00.000-08:00

Today is my grandpa Braegger's birthday he would have been 94. Its crazy to think how long he has been gone. Its been an emotional month thinking about grandpa's. After losing one this month and the other having a birthday. I am so glad for their examples through the years. I shouldn't leave my dad's dad out since he is still around. They all served in different parts of the military. Grandpa Glen was in the navy, Grandpa Keith in the Korean war and army. Grandpa Braegger was a Marine and they were all proud of their service. We didn't hear many stories and I dont blame them. I am sure the things they saw were not pretty. In fact some of the things I did hear I dont know how they were able to go on. When Grandpa Braegger passed away we didn't have a military service at the grave and we should have. I really think it was the fact that he was gone in a week. It was such a shock and hard to accept. I feel bad we didn't honor him that way. I know he loved our country and fought hard for our freedom's. I remember him going down to the flag pole to put out the flag. They are all so patriotic maybe that is where I get it from.

At my grandpa Keith's funeral they did do the military service.It was really neat to watch and touching. They have such high respect for the person that died and for their service. I thought it was really cool how they folded the flag 13 times. I knew there would be a meaning to that so I looked it up. It was cool so I thought I would share:

The first fold of the flag is a symbol of life.
The second fold of the flag is a symbol of the people's belief in the eternal life.
The third fold of the flag is made in honor and remembrance of the Veteran departing ranks who gave a portion of life for the defense of the country to attain peace throughout the world.
The fourth fold of the flag represents the people's weaker nature. For as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him the people turn to in times of peace as well as in times of war for His divine guidance.
The fifth fold of the flag is a tribute to the country, for in the words of Stephen Decauter, “Our country, in dealing with the other countries, may she always be right, but it is still our country, right or wrong."
The sixth fold of the flag is for where people's hearts lie. It is with hearts that people pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
The seventh fold of the flag is a tribute to the Armed Forces, for it is through them that the people protect the country and flag against all enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of the Republic.
The eighth fold of the flag is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that people might see the light of day, and to honor one's mother, for whom it flies on Mother’s Day.
The ninth fold of the flag is a tribute to womanhood, for it has been through their faith, love, loyalty and devotion the character of the men and women who have made the country great molded.
The tenth fold of the flag is a tribute to father, for he too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of the country since he or she was first born.
The eleventh fold of the flag, in the eyes of Hebrew citizens, represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon and glorifies, in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
The twelfth fold of the flag, in the eyes of a Christian citizen, represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.
Upon the thirteenth and final fold of the flag, the stars are uppermost in remembrance of the United States' national motto, “In God We Trust.”

After folding the flag they kneel in front of the family member and say

On behalf of the President of the United States and the people of a grateful nation, may I present this flag as a token of appreciation for the honorable and faithful service your loved one rendered this nation.
Depending on what part of the military you served in they have different things they say for the different organizations.

Thanks for being someone I can be proud of love you all! Happy Birthday Grandpa!

Nick's Birthday

2011-02-22T12:11:00.000-08:00

There is a cute family in our ward that has really taken us under their wing. Its hard to be away from home sometimes. They make it so much better and have adopted us! We love being the fun aunts that can spoil them:) Last year the parents were on a fun trip and got home on the youngest birthday. I know I blogged about making him a cake. Its kind of snowballed and this is the 3rd cake for them. This was for their son that turned 12 this year! He loves legos and camping so I combined the 2. I think it was a pretty big hit! I look forward to making more cakes for them if they request it:)

2011-02-17T20:58:00.000-08:00

Do you ever feel like you have so much to blog about but not enough time to do it? Well that is my situation as of now. I am still looking for a few more pictures and then I will be ready to write a few things down. Its been a crazy couple of months! I hope your lives are slower then mine. I will blog soon I promise!

Looking back

2011-02-13T12:34:00.000-08:00

Its been a rough end of 2010 and beginning of 2011. With the death of my cousin Shawna and my grandpa Keith close behind her. I have never dealt well with death. I know we will be able to see them again but I am sad. Its been a hard thing to have 2 deaths so close together. I was lucky enough to go back to Utah for both funerals and I am so glad. My cousin Shawna's funeral was so hard with lots of crying and emptyness. I think it was the fact that she died so young and left a small family behind. At my grandpa's funeral there were tears but a peace that made it so much better. They were both so full of cancer and it was a blessing they could both pass on. I am so truly blessed to have been born into such a great family! I think of the short 31 years that my grandpa was apart of our lives. I am so glad that my grandma was able to find him and have the kind of life she always wanted. I was reading grandpa's life history up until the day before he passed away. He had quite a life full of his own heartaches but he never lost his faith. He prayed harder when he didn't think he was able to go on. After meeting my grandma he said "Looking at the circumstances which led to us meeting it would appear to be the hand of the lord leading our footsteps." I hope I can have the kind of faith he had even in his darkest hours. I am sure going to miss his amazing hugs and his sweet ways. He was truly the best grandpa. He will be deeply missed but I know he is in a better place and I wouldn't want to take him away from that. I read this poem that fits perfect with the way I feel. love you grandpa!

Miss me, but let me go

When I come to the end of the road
And the sun has set for me
I want no rites in a gloom filled room
Why cry for a soul set free

Miss me a little - but not too long
And not with your head bowed low
Remember the love that we once shared
Miss me - but let me go

For this is a journey that we must all take
And each must go alone
It's all a part of the Master's plan
A step on the road to home

When you are lonely, and sick of heart
Go to the friends we know
And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds
Miss me - but let me go

Grandpa Keith

2011-02-11T12:24:00.000-08:00

The love we have for Grandpa
Will never fade away.
We will think of him, our special friend
Throughout each passing day.
We will walk into the room
And see his empty chair and
Although we know he is gone for now
We will feel his presence there.
The memories of his laughter,
His warm and loving smile,
His eyes so full of happiness,
His heart that of a child.
Memories are forever
Be they laughter or of tears,
Memories we will treasure
Through all the forthcoming years.

The winner is.....

2011-02-07T05:02:00.000-08:00

all of you! Since I only had 3 comments I figured why not do something for everyone! I will be sending it out soon. Thanks for being my faithful readers!!

Giveaway!

2011-01-31T11:11:00.001-08:00

I think its time for another giveaway! Leave a comment if you want to be thrown into the drawing. I will draw a week from today for the winner!

I have been doing a lot of thinking...

2011-01-26T08:00:00.000-08:00

Sorry I haven't done much in blogging land lately. I have had kind of a blah January. I think everyone does with the weather and trying to start up new goals for the year. I have been busy at work training a new girl so we aren't stuck working 12 hour shifts anymore thank goodness! I have been doing a lot of thinking about my grandparents lately. I have been blessed in my life to have known my great grandparents. I have so many memories of visiting with them and how excited they would get to see me. I think my love for cooking came from my great grandma Ida. She was an amazing cook and always had something good to eat. I remember helping her in the kitchen with cookies or just sitting and watching. She was always patient with me and would never get upset if I messed something up. I miss her sweet ways and her whistling and watching Lawrence Welk with her. I have been thinking about my mom's mom lately. Just this month my sweet grandma had to go and live with my aunt. She was just too wobbly for her own house and to be alone. I know this was a hard pill for her to swallow but she seems to be doing ok. She has always been such a positive person never upset. She always loves a phone call or visit and when you talk to her you would think your the most interesting person ever! I love her so much and am so thankful for my aunt letting her stay. I know it has been a huge sacrifice to have her there. I am also thinking about my grandpa Keith who is suffering so much right now. He has literally gone through the wringer of health problems. He has fought cancer twice and its winning right now. I am so sad that he has to deal with the pain and the sickness. I am also feeling bad for my grandma who stays by his side day in and day out. She is so loving and just wants to help him so much. It has been so hard for her to watch him suffer. I know it wont be long before he is called to the other side. He is already talking to people there and really wants to go. I am just so thankful for the knowledge that the gospel brings. I didn't mean to be such a downer with this post I am just having a lot of sadness these days and needed to share. I hope everyone is doing well! If you have your grandparents still dont forget to tell them you love them!

Top 10 of 2010

2011-01-11T08:32:00.001-08:00

These are in no specific order

Being able to spend some time with my cousin Audrey was so wonderful.The
reason for meeting was a very sad one but she helped me get through it.

Seeing my grandparents was great but especially my grandma B
she is always happy no matter what her circumstances. I hope
to be that way someday.

The birth of Ivy Joy she is the cutest thing you have ever seen!
She melts your heart with those cute cheeks.(photo courtesy of Olya)

Seeing my old roommate Debs she is so adorable
and always makes me laugh

My brother Phil getting married to a great girl! Its nice
to have 2 sister in laws with fashion sense:)It was also
so nice to get to see my family quite a bit this last year.

I had a milestone birthday and turned 35! I do feel my
age quite a bit!

I went to Disneyland with my best friend Trish! It is the
place that keeps me young at heart.

I went to Utah and surprised a good friend of mine. I watched
her 5 kids while she was able to get away for her 10th anniversary!

I was able to get together with my sister quite a bit this year.
She even came down and surprised me which was awesome!

I went camping alot and had such a great time! I am already planning
some trips this year:)

These were the highlights of my 2010 year. I am looking forward to many more adventures this new year!

15 years!

2011-01-10T14:19:00.000-08:00

I cant believe 15 years ago today my grandpa was laid to rest. Its been really hard on my grandma having him gone. She has missed him so much and talks about him all the time. I know she would love to be with him especially now that her health is terrible. It seems like yesterday that he was here and then other times it feels like forever! I cant wait until we are able to see him again. I am sure he is lonely for us and it will be a great reunion. Miss you grandpa

Happy Birthday Paula!

2011-01-04T08:29:00.001-08:00

This is my mom's baby sister Paula. She is such a sweetheart and is always doing nice things for others. Today is her birthday so I just wanted her to know how much I love and appreciate all she does. She is truly such a great example to me. Thanks for all the memories through the years! your the best!

Christmas 2010

2010-12-25T08:04:00.000-08:00

I was able to go home for Christmas on the 24th and it was so nice to be there.We had lots going on and never a dull moment! Sorry in advance that the pictures are not the best. I forgot my camera and was stuck using my phone. I guess I should be glad that I can have that option!

The breath taking view from my parents sun room.

Elijah putting together a digger he was really good!

Denise reading Ivy her new book she really liked it!

Ivy wasn't so sure about me since we dont live close. She got warmed up
as the time went by.

Phil and Stacie always looking cute for pictures.

Maya showing off her new Christmas dress that twirls!

Such a cute picture of Lisa who just met Ivy for the first time.
Good thing theres a mama standing by to make her smile so cute!

Elijah told me he wanted to draw a picture of me I thought it
was so cute!

I was trying to get a picture of Anya and her cute curls. She
has such a sweet personality.

Shawna part 1

2010-12-14T17:01:00.000-08:00

This is my cousin and one of my best friends Shawna. We grew up together along with another cousin Audrey. We were all 6 months apart and couldn't be separated. Even after she got married we stayed close. She understood me when others didn't and never gave up on me. After having her first baby she became really sick and they found out she had lupus. This was really hard for her and she tried to stay positive. The doctors told her not to have anymore children but she wouldn't listen. She came from a large family and always wanted lots of kids. She had a girl and things went really well so she thought maybe the doctors were wrong. After her daughter was 2 or 3 they tried again to have another one but with no luck. Her lupus continued to zap all her energy and some days she couldn't make it out of bed. She was in Chicago so I thought it would be nice to go help her. I went for a couple of visits and spent most of my time cooking and cleaning and doing laundry. I know she appreciated it and I felt good that I could help out. About 5 years after her daughter was born a cute little boy arrived for them 2 months early. It nearly killed her and he suffered for a long time in the intensive care. She had to drive 2 hours to go see him each time and it sure took a toll on the family. She wasn't going to let him be alone she had faith he would come home. Finally almost a month and a half later she was able to bring him home. She tried to be the best mom she could always supporting her kids. I arranged for a get together with Audrey and her family and Shawna's family to meet in Nauvoo 3 years ago. We had such a great time camping and visiting the sites of Nauvoo and surrounding areas. Its a memory I will hold close forever. We were able to do a session in the Nauvoo temple and the memories of being there will never be forgotten. About 2 years ago our lives were turned upside down when Shawna became really sick. She went in for testing and they found a mass on one of her lungs. When they studied it closer they found it to be cancer so they decided to take it off. After they did this she had to go through chemo and she became really sick.She had to double her doses because of the weakend state of her body from the lupus. After doing all of this she was still sick and kept telling me how dizzy she was. The doctors told her it was probably a side effect from the chemo that she would have to live with. She didn't want to accept it but kept hoping for a different answer. A couple weeks later her head really started to hurt so she went into the ER and they found a tumor on her brain and 2 in her spine. She decided to go ahead and have the one on the front of her brain removed and it cleared her dizziness right up. The ones on her spine started giving her problems so she decided it was best to get the main one out. It was very painful and risky since any false move and she would be paralyzed.At the same point her throat started to close off so they put a stint in there to hold it open to breathe. It was a success and we were hoping this would start helping her feel better. She did start to feel really good for about a month and then she started to have that same pain in her head again. After going back to the doctor they found she had another tumor that would have to be removed. We were all so crushed about this we knew her body couldn't hold out forever with this kind of treatment. Her wonderful in laws had moved out to Chicago to see if they could help and ended up staying for 2 months.
At the beginning of December she had the surgery and it was a success in fact they were really impressed how well she was doing. She was able to come home 2 days after and sleep in her own bed. On Sunday the 5th I got a phone call telling me Shawna had passed away in the night. Her husband later on told me that she had went to bed fine and in the night started coughing up blood. He called 911 but before they could get there she layed back down on the pillow told him she loved him and died. They think the stint in her throat became dislodged and cut off her breathing. I will finish the rest on the next post.

2010-12-13T21:45:00.000-08:00

I promise I haven't disappeared I am still here! With having a broken computer it makes it hard to do posts. I have had a lot on my plate lately and I plan to blog about it soon. I just need to find the right pictures. Thanks for being patient and keep checking back with me:)

Shawna part 2

2010-12-11T07:48:00.000-08:00

I have had a really hard time dealing with her death. Its hard to imagine she is gone and I cant talk to her anymore. No more advice or crying or laughing or vacations with her. That's a hard thing to swallow but I am so grateful for the gospel in my life that makes it easier to move on. I didn't think I would be able to go to the funeral and that really made me sad. A day after I found out the news my roommate told me she was going to buy me a ticket to go. I couldn't believe she would do such a nice thing. It was so sweet of her and I knew she didn't have the money to do it. My cousin Audrey also called me and asked if I was going to go. I wasn't really sure but she said I think its important that we both go so if you need any help please let me help you. I was so overwhelmed by the love shown toward me. I flew out and was able to be there for the viewing that night. It was really nice and one of her brother's had put together a slide show that had so many pictures of us together. It was hard to see how much her siblings were hurting. When I got up to her parents they just cried and cried and my heart broke for them. I hugged her husband and he held it together so well. He was comforting me more then I was him and I thought how sweet and typical that he would do that. My heart broke the most for her kids. The oldest who is 13 now didn't cry at all the 10 year old was really upset and the 5 year old didn't really grasp the idea. I know its going to be a long road for them. The funeral was really beautiful and I was so glad to have my cousin Audrey to sit next to me the whole time. Her sister Emily shared a list of 101 things I know that Shawna had written. I am going to make it my goal this year to come up with my own list. Hers was so beautifully written and I know that she was prepared to die. Its not going to be very easy to have her gone but I know she is at peace and waiting for us.

Veterans Day

2010-12-03T10:17:00.000-08:00

I work at a retirement home as a cook and for the most part I love my job! Maybe its the fact that I love older people. There is a lot of pressure to make things that they will like. There are always those who give me the I would have never made that food like that lecture! I just smile and nod and say well at least you have someone cooking for you:)The first picture is my favorite resident Winnie and yes that is her name! Maybe because Winnie the Pooh is my favorite I dont know. Her grand kids actually call her grandma Pooh which I think is adorable. Anyway the other pictures are from our Veterans day social. They made a big deal out of veterans that live there. I thought it was great to honor them. The activities director made a poster with all of them on there and where they served. We sang patriotic songs and had punch and cookies. I took a couple of pictures of some of them. The man by himself rarely smiles so the fact I could get him to hold his flag and get him to smile made my day! Also the 3 people that are together wouldn't stop singing to smile so I just took the picture anyway:) Sorry the pictures are not very good I used my phone.

Thanksgiving and this and that

2010-12-02T20:11:00.000-08:00

Sorry I have been missing in action! My sister Lisa came down from Seattle this last weekend for our Thanksgiving. I made a full meal except I only cooked a turkey breast. I thought it turned out good and I had 2 firsts. I made rolls that actually tasted good and didn't weigh 12 pounds! I also made the best pumpkin pie that I have ever made! Do you think I took a picture?! Um nope I was too busy starring at it in all its glory:) My sister and I also decided that the cranberry needed to have a bit more to it besides open the can and dump! So I threw it in a sauce pan and added orange juice, cinnamon and a little sugar. It was really amazing how just those few things made it taste so good. We ate and played games and did a puzzle and talked and relaxed. It couldn't have been a more perfect weekend until Sunday. My sister and I were looking at a Christmas gift we wanted to get my mom and my computer died. Not just lost all power died like cant find the hard drive died! I was so devastated and still am. I don't want to think about the things I have lost on there. I will just think of things that were copied on to other disc's. I am really hoping for a miracle but I don't know. So for now my roommate has been nice enough to let me use her computer here and there. I have a very busy month ahead with lots of projects so hopefully I will blog about them. If I dont happen to look at your blog for awhile its because I lost your address with the computer not because I dont love you!

The rest of the thankful posts!

2010-11-24T06:56:00.000-08:00

Since I am going to be working a lot more and my sister is coming for Thanksgiving I am going to finish out the rest of my thankful posts. I have really enjoyed thinking about the many things I am thankful for. I hope you have enjoyed reading them. I hope everyone has a fun and safe Thanksgiving!

I am thankful for the snow and the magic it brings

I am thankful for a great roommate who puts up with all my projects and is
never complaining about helping me.

I am thankful for 2 large boxes of Thanksgiving stuff left on our doorstep. Dont worry I am going to be giving it to some people that I know need it!

I am thankful that in a month from today I am going to be flying home for Christmas!

I am thankful for Christmas trees for there beauty and there amazing aroma!

I am thankful for a dishwasher that works!

I am thankful for the chance to see my sister and her love and example to me.

2010-11-21T07:04:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for the many people that have influenced my life for good.

I am thankful for a car that runs.

I am thankful for a church house to go to and its only 8 blocks away!

2010-11-18T07:10:00.000-08:00

I am thankful that my mom took the time to teach me how to do canning.

I am thankful for my nieces and nephews that keep me laughing.

I am thankful for the upcoming Christmas season and for the fun it brings.

I am thankful for a nice warm house to live in.

2010-11-15T09:33:00.000-08:00

I haven't been keeping up with this very well but I will try harder! I am posting for the last 3 days I missed and for today.

I am thankful to be a member of the church of Jesus Christ of latterday saints!

I am thankful for people that help me when I dont ask for it.

I am thankful to have a nice warm bed to sleep in.

I am thankful that I love to cook and I am not bad at it:)

I am thankful for...

2010-11-11T06:53:00.000-08:00

*Friends who keep me laughing and are there to boost me when I am feeling low.

*my grandparents for all the memories I have with them and their constant love and example.

*For those who are serving in the war and those who have died for our freedom. For my own grandpa's who served so faithfully and saw things that changed their lives.

I am thankful for...

2010-11-08T18:25:00.000-08:00

I am so thankful for the rain and this beautiful state
that has so much of it! It makes everything so green and pretty.

I am thankful for...

2010-11-07T08:26:00.000-08:00

My friend is doing a thankful blog and I thought I would join in to finish off the month. I did one last year and I loved thinking about things I am thankful for each day. So since its already the 7th of the month I will list 7 things I am thankful for. Everyone should do this its great to be thankful.

*I am grateful for good parents who have always been such a great example to me!

* I am thankful for my siblings who make me laugh when I am down and are always there for me.

* I am thankful for the gospel and to have that peace that comes from knowing I belong to the only true church.

* I am grateful for my job

* I am thankful for the fall and the beautiful trees in vibrant colors.

* I am thankful for my ward family who love and accept me for who I am.

* I am grateful for the season of giving.

Happy Birthday Phil!

2010-11-02T21:03:00.000-07:00

Today is my brother Phil's birthday. He is such a great brother and has been such a good example to me. He hasn't had the easiest life being my dad's right hand man with everything. He never complained when my dad had project after project for him. He stuck right by his side and completed every task. He is a very spiritual person and loves to be at church. He is always trying to do what is right and when he doesn't he is really hard on himself.He is good in the house doing chores and after meals jumping up to do dishes and help with clean up. I love that about him and hope I find someone just like him someday. I love his sense of humor and the way he can memorize movie quotes. I love that he loves to play games and hang out with me. He is so good with watching the nieces and nephew and I know they look up to him. He got married this year to such a great girl. I know they were meant for each other. I hope he has a long happy life because he truly deserves the best! Happy Birthday Phil I love you!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T14:52:00.000-07:00

I cant believe its already the end of October! Where did the month fly by to? Last night I was in charge of a Halloween party at our church. It started out with just being our ward. Then we decided to include 2 other wards and can you say crazy! We had each of the primary presidents and the activity chairs as a commitee. We played carnival games had spooky treats and a krispy treat walk. Then on top of all that decided to do trunker treat! What were we thinking?! Well we ended up having around 450 people show up and the building was bursting at the seams! Its a good thing we meet in the stake center. I thought it went over well and you could say it was a huge success and failure. We just needed more people in charge and to invite less wards. Oh well you live and learn and at least all I have heard is how much fun the kids had. Isn't that the main thing?:)

Disneyland part 1

2010-10-25T18:09:00.000-07:00

We are on the Toy Story mania ride so much fun!

They have California spelled out so we went and stood by our first letter

This is Mater and lightening Macqueen they were in a parade and they
are making a huge ride themed from the movie Cars opening in 2012.

I am standing in front just before you go in. Everything
is Halloween themed and so cute!

I thought these caramel apples were adorable!

They have this giant Mickey Jack o lantern right after
going into Disneyland. There was always a line to get
a picture. Trish got a great picture right when the park opened!

Here is Trish and Minnie in one of her many outfits

This was so cool to look at at night. They had this ferris
wheel and the Mickey head changed different colors. They also had
a show called world of color in front of it. Stay tuned for more of
that!

They had all these different pumpkins carved out of different
characters. It was too dark to get the pumpkin part so it looks
like a floating head!

Mr. Potato head in front of the Toy Story Mania ride. He is hilarious
if you have time to sit and listen to him. Which you do waiting to get
on that ride! Its so amazing what they can do with computers now days.

Here is the castle at night and you can see the different pumpkins
at Walt Disney's feet. They were so cute when they were all lit up.

I am back from the happiest place on earth! I had a great trip to Disneyland even with the rain and tons of people the first day. I am so glad I never go there on weekends. We went over when we flew in on Sunday and man it was a mad house. We could barely move around with all the people. The next few days were so much better and hardly any people came. I think alot of that has to do with the rainy weather. I had checked the weather a week before we went and there was no rain in the forecast. Well next thing we know its overcast everyday and even rained pretty good the first full day we went. That didn't stop us we braved it and had lots of fun. We saw new and old things and did alot of people watching:) I think overall it was a great time and I cant wait to go back. Did I mention my roommate LOVES to take pictures and videos? Well on this trip alone she took over 500 pictures! Ya thats what I said holy cow! I think I might have taken 50 but I am always glad she takes so many so I can see all the cool shots. So this is just a very small beginning to the masses I have. I might have to do a slide show with the rest so your not bored. I hope you enjoy looking at them:)

I love Fall!

2010-10-12T07:09:00.001-07:00

I love this time of year so much! I love the beautiful colors and cool air. I love looking at farms filled with pumpkins and corn mazes. I love hiking and stepping on crunchy leaves. I am really looking forward to going on vacation this weekend! I love fall at Disneyland! I love all their fun decorations and the atmosphere. Its just a fun place all around. I will post more about that later....

Surprise Visit

2010-10-03T07:23:00.001-07:00

My sister Lisa and my roommate Trish put their heads together and surprised me with a visit from Lisa! I was so excited when I was just sitting around on a Friday night and in walks Lisa. Even though we are only 4 hours away we just dont get to see each other as much as we would like. We had a great time going to a favorite restaurant of mine and playing the Wii:)Trish had to work the next day so Lisa and I went to this museum that I have wanted to go to for awhile. They are building a carousel downtown and right now are carving all the animals. Its a lot of work and we watched a few of them carve. Then they have a room where they are painting them all. We thought the room looked like a homemaking night at our church:) There were all these ladies just chatting away while they painted. My pictures didn't turn out the best they were kind of blurry but hopefully you get the idea. After the museum we went to the next town and watched toy story 3 in 3D it was awesome! We played games and laughed and talked just the therapy I need. Trish and I had planned to go to a fireside that night in Eugene where Brother Bednar and 2 members of the 70 were speaking. We all went and were so glad we did it was awesome. Instead of giving talks they did a Q&A session. People raised their hands and asked a question and they would answer it. It was a great night full of the spirit. The next day was church and then lunch and the next thing we knew it was time for her to go:( It always goes by so fast but I am so lucky to have such great sisters! I cant wait to see her at Thanksgiving:)We took a cute picture together minus my double chin but I am wearing an apron my mom made for me for my birthday:)

My blog is crazy

2010-09-28T08:53:00.000-07:00

My blog has been doing weird things so I dont know if anyone has even been able to view it. I went private and put in all the email address's then had some that couldn't view it. So I went back to an open blog and still have some that cant seem to view it either. Oh well its really my journal anyway and I am the most interested in what I have to say right! I cant believe fall is here and October is this week! I have really enjoyed watching the changes. I love eating apples and everything pumpkin! I also start getting this cooking bug and want to be baking all the time. I am missing my family a lot these days. Sometimes I wish I lived closer and could see them more often. Then I think of the friends I have made here and get sad too. Life is full of ups and downs we just have to have joy in the journey! I have the cutest new niece I have to show her off. Her mama made her this adorable outfit and then took her picture. Isn't she sweet! If she doesn't make you want to smile no one will!

this and that

2010-09-20T21:04:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged for awhile so I thought I would just let you know I am still here! I have been really busy working quite a bit. Nothing really exciting happening in my life except my sister Lisa's visit! I am still trying to get my phone to down load the pictures then I will blog about it. I am loving the fall weather its so nice! I love it when the leaves start changing color and when football season is here. Its just a great time of year! I have been thinking a lot lately just how blessed I am and how many things I have to be thankful for. Maybe its because fall is here and Thanksgiving is right around the corner. That always makes me reflect on my blessings. It could be because of the stories I hear about those less fortunate. There is a lady in my ward who was homeless most of her life and she has just got back on her feet. She just started getting interested in the church and she is so full of faith. She doesn't have hardly anything but she always says how good god is. I think its quite something for her to have such faith that he will help her. I need to be more like her. I am getting so excited to listen to general conference coming up. I just really enjoy the talks and music and it lifts me so much. I hope everyone is doing well and I promise to have something more interesting to say on my next post!

Grandpa Keith

2010-09-12T16:58:00.000-07:00

This is my grandpa Keith he is an amazing man to me. Today is his birthday so I thought I would write a little bit about him. He married my grandma in 1980 and even though he wasn't my original grandpa I cant think of a better man. He fits so well into the family and has the biggest heart. He has always done things for others and put their needs first. My grandparents have served 5 missions for the church! They are truly an example to me. My grandpa battled prostate cancer quite a few years ago and for some unknown reason it came back. He has battled with it the last 2 years and it has really done some damage to him. He had to go through chemo and endure being really sick. I am so proud of him and the way he was able to stick with it. I know his days are few but I am so glad to have him in my life. Happy Birthday!

Where I am from

2010-09-05T16:16:00.000-07:00

I am from a home with homemade play dough and playing school. I am from hours in a big sandbox and weeding the garden.

I am from helping cook and long summer nights playing night games like stranger or no bears.

I am from braces on my teeth, glasses on my face and endless pigtails. I am from 2 sisters and 2 brothers who love me and have shared many memories.

I am from the mom that is an amazing cook and seamstress. I am from the dad that taught me how to work hard and enjoy the blessings of doing so.

I am from the fun summers of playing at my grandparents in the irrigation water and eating eskimo pies in the gazebo. I am from the years of family camp outs and fun vacations.

I am from going to the girls home every summer and hiking to willard peak. I am from many aunts and uncles who share love and concern for me.

I am from homemade spudnuts and Lawrence Welk with grandma Ida and butterscotch candies and feeding cows cucumbers with grandpa Ben.

I am from orange soda pop and candy to milkshakes and cow auctions with grandpa Glen.

I am from crafts and UEA's and lemon custard with grandma Joyce. Spending time laughing with 2 close cousins and visiting great grandma in the nursing home.

I am from a bee keeper with a big heart that plays the harmonica and sings so sweetly. From a man suffering everyday to keep going from the cancer that infects him.

I am from hiking the mountain and cutting down Christmas trees to homemade Halloween costumes that take first place!

I am from many backyards of playing colored eggs,tag and jumping on the trampoline. From going to the country store and buying penny candies

I am from an amazing home ward where my dad was respected as bishop and where I sang in a great choir of angels.
I am from hours of playing in the marching band and finding the values I hold dear this day.
I am from many lessons piano, tennis, bowling, choirs ,swimming that have taught me skills I need.

I am from old journals kept by my parents and endless picture albums. To completed baby books and journal jars.

I am from many memories but these are the ones I share with you. I am from hard work and the present as I continue on life's journey.

I am the American dream from broken despair and gained hope
I am the present, past, and future history in the making.

Winner!

2010-09-04T06:50:00.000-07:00

And the winner of the giveaway is.....Amy! Congrats!If you will please send me your address I will put your prize in the mail:) Thanks for all the comments!

Happy Birthday Dad!

2010-09-02T17:10:00.000-07:00

Today is my dad's birthday. He is such a great guy and has always been such a great example. I am so grateful he is in my life and for the many things he has taught me through the years. He is such a hard worker never quits till the sun goes down. I found this poem that is a lot like him. Happy Birthday Dad I love you!

Without delay he's up each day
before the crack of dawn.
After breakfast, a kiss from his wife,
he yawns and pulls his work boots on.

Out the door he stands with pause
to smile at the gold-blue sky.
The rooster crows and the man steps off
with purpose in his stride.

There's livestock to feed and fences to mend,
till the soil and plant some seed.
His list of chores has no end
for there's always some kind of need.

The man looks around at his open land
proud of the work that has been done
Knowing the hard work and blisters on his hands
Was worth the sweat and tears

The sun has set and he's earned the right
to relax on his old back porch.
He shuts his eyes and breaths in the night
praying tomorrow he'll rise once more.

Hot air balloon Festival

2010-08-31T08:12:00.000-07:00

Last year Trish and I discovered this air balloon festival and it was cool. We didn't really find out about it until it was on the last day. This year we decided to go and see what it was all about on all 3 days! I think the night glow on Friday was one of my favorite. They had 6 out of the 40 balloons there and had them do the wave and popcorn. I loved it when they did popcorn because it really did sound like popcorn popping. They would turn the flame on and off really fast and it made it sound like they were popping popcorn. There was an amazing sunset I have never seen the sky so pink! Then on Saturday I was in charge of a church carnival so we didn't make it over there till that night. It was really neat though because as I was setting up outside at the pavillion of the church,the balloons all flew over my head! I wish I would have had my camera then! On Sunday morning we woke up early and went out to the fairgrounds at 6:45 just in time to see them launch all the balloons! Its just really interesting to see how they do it. It was a really fun and very eventful weekend. Trish took all the pictures since her camera on her phone is better then my actual camera! How crazy is that?! I hope you enjoy them:)

2 year anniversary

2010-08-28T16:21:00.001-07:00

So today marks 2 years of blogging! I cant believe its already been that long ago since I started this. It has been enjoyable for me to record what I have been doing and have this journal! In honor of my anniversary I am doing a giveaway! I know you love it when I have these:) If you would like to enter please leave me a comment.I will be drawing a winner a week from today! Also if you didn't already know I am making my blog private starting september 1st. Let me know your emails if you want to stay in contact! Thanks for all your support:)

Ukulele World Record Attempt

2010-08-24T18:15:00.000-07:00

I have had a great love of the Ukulele since I can remember. My grandma taught herself how to play when she was young. She told me she used to sit on the banks of the canal and make up songs. Some of them are pretty funny. Her mom also taught her quite a few songs to play. When my mom and aunts came along she had them singing 3 part harmony when they were very young. She would play the Ukey (as she called it)and they would sing along. They are very good and could easily make their own cd! Well if they dont start laughing that is:)They are so funny if 1 of them starts to laugh they all do and then its impossible to get them to sing. Grandma has told me so many times how they would sing for groups and one of them would get the giggles and then it just snowballed. Every Christmas just before we go home for the night grandma gets out the ukey and we sing Christmas songs. Then if we are lucky we get to hear the sisters sing in their beautiful harmonys. Its a memory I will never forget. When I found out my roommate likes to play too it was an added bonus! She is really good and is always playing. We heard of this Aloha Festival that they were having in a nearby town and decided to go. I think next year it will be attended better. This year they didn't do very much advertising so not many showed up. You can see my roommate on the video she is wearing the red hawaiian shirt. They made it on cbs news so that is pretty good!

going private

2010-08-24T07:45:00.000-07:00

I have decided to go private with my blog. If you are interested in keeping up with whats going on please leave me your email so I can include you. Thanks!

Diaper Cake

2010-08-16T05:25:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine from work had a baby shower and so I thought I would get creative with the gift! I had heard of these being done I just put my own twist on it! I think it turned out pretty cute:)The diapers are the cake rounds and then I covered it with a fondant blanket:)

Scandinavian Festival

2010-08-14T16:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday a friend from the ward told us about this festival that was going on not to far away. Its a Scandinavian Festival with dancing and lots of booths with crafts and food. It was neat to see the different types of foods. Since my dad's side is Danish there were a few foods I recognized. I really wanted a meat pie but the line was so long. We already had to stand in line to get the best thing there. They are called Aebelskivers and they are so good! My great grandma use to make them and they take patience. Its very interesting to watch you pour this batter into this skillet that has round holes. When it starts to get brown you start moving it around with a type of knitting needle. When its all done its basically a pancake in a round ball. They gave us jam to dunk them in and it was oh so good! It was a good thing we parked a ways a way so I could walk some off! It was a really hot day so I think next time I will go when they first open or later when the sun goes down.

Smells of Summer

2010-08-12T21:30:00.000-07:00

I dont know about you but I love the smells of summertime! I am sure everyone has different things they love. Some of my favorites are fresh vegetables from the garden especially tomatoes! I love the smell of a summer rain. The smell of freshly cut hay and the alfalfa fields at my parents. The smell of a campfire and smores! The lush green pine trees that are everywhere here. Clean air that you usually find only when your high in the mountains. Someone cooking food on the bbq grill, I love the smell of canning fruits and veggies. There is nothing better then going to the county fair and the smells of cotton candy or funnel cakes. What smells do you love in the summertime?

30 random things about me

2010-08-09T07:51:00.000-07:00

I was tagged to do this about 6 months ago and I am just finally getting around to it. I hope you enjoy reading it!

1.Favorite Chocolate?
Twix

2.Sour or sweet candy?
Sweet

3.Favorite hot drink?
Hot Chocolate

4.City or the country?
Country

5.What is your dream job?
Running a bed and breakfast

6.What religion did you choose to follow?
L.D.S.

7.Riding horses or riding dolphins?
Dolphins

8.What is your favorite color?
Red

9.beach or mountain?
I love both for different reasons

10.What do you do when your feeling down?
I bake alot!

11.do you plan things in advance?
depends on what it is

12.How many hobbies do you have
Lots...to many to name

13.Close your eyes for a moment, who pops into your head?
My grandma

14. If you have friends coming for supper what would you cook?
dutch oven or something on the grill

15.What makes you cry?
People and situations

16.If you won the lottery, how would you spend your millions?
getting out of debt and helping my family do the same

17.Do you believe that the cup is half empty or half full?
Depends on the day

18.What do you do for fun?
camping or exploring places I haven't been

19.Are you an outdoor or an indoor person
a little bit of both

20.If you had only six months to live, what would you do first?
live each day to the fullest and forgive those that have hurt me

21.How do you feel?
Tired I am ready for a nap

What size shoes do you wear?
11 in women ya I know it is hard to find shoes to fit

22.Would you rather be hot or cold?
HOT you can only take off so many clothes to get cool!

23.What are some of your favorite Disney Films?
the older ones sleeping beauty, alice in wonderland

24.Juice and crackers or milk and cookies?
Milk and oreos
Favorite fruit?
blueberries,kiwi, strawberries, pineapple

25.Do you eat cold cereal at night?
Yes I love cereal

26.What is your favorite TV show?
anything on the food network, biggest loser, amazing race

27.Where do you want to travel next?
to hawaii

28.What is your favorite food?
navajo tacos

29.What is your favorite place?
on vacation

30.If you could have one super human power what would you choose?
Flying! It would be awesome to just fly to my friends for a few hours

35 seems so old!

2010-08-07T21:27:00.000-07:00

I turned 35 today I cant believe it! I feel so old especially when someone says your half way to 70! Well I hadn't thought about that but thanks I think?....For the most part its been a great 35 years with lots of adventures. I think one of the top highlights was becoming an aunt. My nieces and nephew are so cute and keep me smiling all the time! I am also grateful for such great parents that took us on the funnest vacations! I have so much to be grateful for at this time of my life. I am hoping the next 35 are just as amazing!

Music Meme

2010-08-04T06:44:00.000-07:00

My sister had this on her blog awhile back and I thought it was cool! Just put your answers in using song titles from your favorite music artist. I of course went with the 80's music since its my favorite:)

* Are you a male or female: Lady in red
* Describe yourself: Destination unknown
* How do you feel? Forever Young
* Describe where you currently live: life in a Northern town
* If you could go anywhere, where would you go:Paradise City
* Your favorite form of transportation: Walk this way
* You and your best friends are: I'll be there for you
* Favorite time of day: Night is still young
* If your life was a TV show, what would it be called: straight from the heart
* Your favorite activity: Games without Frontiers
* What is life to you: Joyride
* Your relationship: owner of a lonely heart
* Your fear: Its the end of the world as we know it
* What is the best advice you have to give: The futures so bright I gotta wear shades
* Thought for the Day: We live for love
* How I would like to die: Only in my dreams
* My soul’s present condition: Livin on a prayer

Birthday Month

2010-07-31T20:34:00.000-07:00

My big milestone birthday is coming up this next Saturday. Rather then have a nervous breakdown, I thought it would be fun to do something different with my blog this month. I will also being doing a giveaway toward the end of the month since its my 2 year anniversary of blogging! Stay tuned in to find out when and what it is!!

Weekend Fun

2010-07-25T13:07:00.000-07:00

This is Mantua lake they shot the fireworks up on the pier

kind of a fuzzy picture of Maya but she was in midswing:)

Notice how dirty Elijah's legs are he couldn't get enough of the stream

Anya always has something to show you

Grandpa Glen always loves to get his picture taken!

Grandma Opal loving Ivy

Anya loves "lemon water" that is what she calls watermelon

her cute watermelon mustache

how cute is Ivy!!

Phil and Stacie taking the kids out for a ride on the lake

Denise making a cute turtle in the sand love that farmer tan!

such a beautiful lake!

look how overcast it is this is when we first got there

Anya loved taking the shovel and putting sand in the little cups

I was able to go home to Utah for a very short trip. It was pretty busy but we had a great time. We had a dutch oven cookout at Box Elder Campground and had some of the grandparents there. I was also able to meet my new niece Ivy she is so cute and pretty calm. My dad made a make shift swing for the kids out of a lawn chair and it was a hit! The town of Mantua has a celebration every year called little valley days that was on Saturday. We didn't go to any of the activities except the fireworks that night. We spent the day in Bear Lake and it was fun once it got a little bit warmer! It was overcast and kind of chilly when we first arrived. It was hard keeping the kids out of the water once we started packing up. We tried a new place instead of getting the usual raspberry shakes at LaBeau's. Its called the Berry Bowl and its really good and there was hardly anyone there. Overall it was a great trip it would have been better had it not been in the 100's!! I was so glad to get back to 73 here in Oregon! I love spending time with family and really miss the fun summer activities. Thanks for all the time spent in planning!

this and that

2010-07-20T08:45:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't blogged much this month. Its been a crazy month with lots going on. I just got back from a quick weekend at my parents house. I will post more on that later. Can I just tell you how nice it is to come home to weather in the late 70's! It was so hot there in the triple digits! I dont know how I dealt with the heat when I lived there. Anyway it was a fun trip and we crammed a lot in so stay tuned for lots of pictures! Now back to work..........:(

Fireworks at Boiler Bay

2010-07-06T07:13:00.001-07:00

I really wanted to see some fireworks over the coast this year. They were having them on the 3rd and 4th so we went the 3rd. We got to the place early and it was good we did or we would have missed the whales!There were about 5 whales 3 mom's and 2 babies. The ranger that was there said they come in close so the babies can nurse while the mom's relax. When they are out in deeper water the mom has to keep pushing the baby up to the top for air. It was really cool to watch them.I had to really zoom in on the picture so sorry its small. Then the sunset was so beautiful to watch. I didn't really plan very well weather wise. It was so cold and I really didn't have much to keep me warm. It would have been good to have a heavy coat. I will remember next year! Overall it was really fun and great fireworks!

The fourth and memories of grandpa

2010-07-01T20:24:00.000-07:00

Just in case you were wondering my favorite holiday is the 4th of July! I love everything Americana ask my family. I am sure they think I am over the top sometimes. Oh well I would rather have this as a weakness then other things:)My grandpa Braegger was a marine in the war. We could never really get him to talk about things since it was painful memories. He watched a few of his friends die right in front of him. He was lucky to come home. Something that I have found very touching is he was at the bottom of the hill at Iwo Jima. He saw them raise the flag to victory. Years later when his birthday rolled around he always said it brought him back to that very day. Such an amazing experience to witness for him and to hear about. I get really choked up every time they play the song for the Marines. I found this really touching video on you tube that I hope you enjoy. I am so grateful for those who have gone before and paved the way! I love the last verse of the star spangled banner it goes:

O! thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand
Between their loved home and the war's desolation!
Blest with victory and peace, may the heav'n rescued land
Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation.
Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,
And this be our motto: "In God is our trust."
And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

Red, White and Blue Poke Cake

2010-06-29T08:08:00.000-07:00

1 box (18.25 oz) Betty Crocker® SuperMoist® white cake mix
Water, oil and egg whites called for on cake mix box
1 box (4-serving size) strawberry-flavored gelatin
1 cup boiling water
1/2 cup cold water
1 box (4-serving size) white chocolate instant pudding and pie filling mix
1/3 cup milk
1 container (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
1/2 cup fresh blueberries

Heat oven to 350°F. Make cake mix as directed on box for 13x9-inch pan, using water, oil and egg whites. Cool completely in pan on cooling rack 1 hour.
Pierce cooled cake with fork at 1/2-inch intervals. In medium bowl, stir gelatin and boiling water until dissolved. Stir in cold water. Carefully pour mixture over entire surface of cake. Refrigerate at least 3 hours until serving time.
In large bowl, mix pudding mix and milk until well blended. Gently stir in whipped topping. Spread over cake. Arrange strawberries and blueberries on top of cake to look like flag. Store in refrigerator.

Alsea Falls

2010-06-28T12:57:00.001-07:00

I went camping again this last weekend. I think I am trying to make up for last summer when I didn't go at all! This was such a great spot. It was kind of crazy the first night because the family next to us had a very unhappy child. I dont know why people insist on bringing a sick baby camping but oh well. After they left the next day there was alot of rejoicing:)

I love the sun through the trees can you tell?! I know I had alot of shots of it in the last camping post.

Just another shot to show how incredibly green everything is everywhere you look!

This is on the trail going to the falls

Another cool shot on the trail. There was moss on the trees.

This is Trish up by the falls.

This is me by the falls. I wasn't going to put this in because I dont look the greatest. I thought I better put a few of me in once in awhile to prove I am there:)

This is at the top of the falls. It was really pretty and very scenic. We tried to hike to another falls but the directions they gave us were awful. When we ended up in another campground at someone's site we headed back. Maybe next time we will find it!

Happy Birthday Andrew!

2010-06-20T12:14:00.001-07:00

There is the cutest family in our ward that we always sit behind in church. They have adopted us into their family and we love them! Recently the parents were able to go on a fun filled trip. The youngest in their family was turning 2 on the day they would get back. I thought it would be fun to make him a cake so it would be less stress on the mom. He loves trains so we made him a train cake. I think it turned out pretty good. There are a few things I would do different next time but overall he loved it!

Camping fun

2010-06-20T11:39:00.000-07:00

This is the camping spot we chose out of like 600 sites available! It was a really nice spot under the trees. I am so glad that I have such a great friend to live with and be able to go on adventures with.

The light through the trees was so pretty I couldn't stop taking pictures!

It was nice and sunny while we were there but the wind did blow so that made it kind of cold.

This is the lake just down from where we stayed. They had swimming and canoes and kayaks you could rent. We were in the area of the Oregon dunes so check out how pretty and white the sand is!
We went just down from our camping spot to hike up to the Heceta head lighthouse. This was a shot through the trees on the way up.
Isn't Oregon so pretty and green! This was at the beginning of the hike.
So this is the view from the porch at the bed and breakfast they have up on the hill just down from the lighthouse! I could live there in a heartbeat!
We also went to a place called the sea lion caves. This is outside of the cave a bunch of sea lions sun tanning and catching lunch!
This is down 200 feet in the cave. Sorry about the fence shot they have to keep it up so people dont climb down and bother the sea lions.
This is the view from the cave over to the lighthouse! It was alot of fun to get out and adventure around. I am hoping to go a lot more this summer!

2010-06-17T06:32:00.000-07:00

Wow I haven't been very good at blogging this month. There has been a lot going on but nothing exciting enough to blog about. I did go camping this last weekend so I need to get my pictures up for that. I recently wrote about my cousin's twins being born the same day as my niece. I thought maybe you would like to see a picture of them. They are just too cute! I promise to be back on here soon so stay tuned....

a visit from a sweet friend

2010-05-31T17:52:00.001-07:00

I was really excited to hear from a good friend of mine over memorial day. She was coming to Oregon to visit her husband's sister and wanted to get together. It happened that she was only going to be an hour from my house so of course I agreed. We found a spot in the middle to meet and it was a great day. There is a riverfront park in Salem that I have never been to and it was nice. It had a carousel that you could ride for 1.50 but since it was Sunday we didn't go on. Trish found the next best thing outside to ride:) There was also an old fashion steamboat that was fun to watch. You sign up and it takes you for a ride and they provide a meal. Its quite expensive though so I dont know if I ever will do it. I was just content eating a picnic and visiting with my good friend. She was an old roommate of mine and I just love her. The last time I saw her was 3 years ago when I catered her wedding lunch. It was fun to meet her new little boy Connor and the other family she brought. I love days like this and wish they happened more often! I would love to see any of you if you want to make the drive:)

Its a girl!

2010-05-28T21:39:00.000-07:00

This last week I became an aunt again to a sweet little girl! Her name is Ivy Joy and I cant wait to meet her! I love being an aunt except when I live too far away to enjoy them. I am so glad she is in our family. The same day she was born my cousin Jodi gave birth to her twin girls!I would post a picture of them but I dont know how to take pictures off my phone.Its fun to share birthdays with loved ones:) Welcome to our Family! (I hope the parents dont mind that I borrowed the picture.)

Bridal Shower

2010-05-20T06:28:00.000-07:00

The same weekend that we had Phil's wedding and graduation we managed to squeeze a bridal shower in! I know you think we are crazy and maybe we are:)My cousin Brian was getting married the next weekend so it was nice we could do this. He got married to a sweet girl Hollie. It was a great time and so fun to see cousins we haven't seen in so long. My cousin's wife just had a new baby boy so it was great we got to meet him. He was so cute and I thought it was a fun addition to the great grandkids!

Just so you know

2010-05-15T19:31:00.001-07:00

I have quite a few posts so make sure you keep scrolling down! Sorry they are all coming up at once. I got on a roll and kept going. I have a few more to post but I will do that another day. I hope you enjoy and dont go crazy with all the pictures:)

Mother's Day

2010-05-15T19:24:00.001-07:00

For Mother's day my sister and I decided that we really needed to makeover my mom's bathroom. It just needed some color and a little love. Needless to say we ran out of money before we could get all of our ideas done. I think it turned out really cute with what we had bought. I think she liked it and next is the guest bedroom!

Phil's Graduation

2010-05-15T19:16:00.001-07:00

Did I mention that Phil was graduating the same weekend he was getting married? It was a very full weekend. I am so proud that he graduated! I know sometimes there were some really challenging times. It was great to be able to be there to help him celebrate the day!