Youngest of Eight

Pity Party

2010-02-14T19:15:00.000-08:00

So I am totally having a pity party for myself this week. Boo hooing about all the "hardships" in my life. I mean give me a break, my life is charmed in comparison with others I see around me. I just need to suck it up and keep going. Life will go on and turn out the way it is supposed to. I just wish sometimes I had a little glimpse of what was to come but maybe if I did, life might not turn out the way it is supposed to. Anyway, mainly just ranting but hey...it's my blogspot so I am allowed to do that right?!

Christmas

2009-12-11T19:46:00.000-08:00

So Christmas is in to weeks...what happened to the year...ready, set, Christmas. I haven't done a thing for it yet..oh my. So to not contribute to the crazy commercialism of this blessed event, I am doing a homemade Christmas. Yes that's right folks , everything I give will be made by yours truly (that's me)! So get excited and hope that you get a present from me.

SWINE FLU

2009-11-03T17:33:00.000-08:00

...I have been sick with the swine flu for the past 5 days, since last Friday. High fevers with my T-max (that's nurse lingo) 103.1, chills, whole body aches, stomach cramps, nausea, coughing and running nose. I'm telling you, I was the idealic poster child for swine flu and I don't recommend it. Highly don't recommend it. And to top it off, I went to the doctor today and now have a secondary bacterial infection! Yes!So if you can stay away from pigs and confined spaces...please do for your own sake. Save yourselves the trouble of staying on the couch doing nothing for almost a week! Today, I am finally starting to see a faint glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel.

Kids say the darndest things...

2009-10-18T20:32:00.000-07:00

So I wa over at Brooke and Thad's house tonight for a family get together and while most of the adults were having a conversation my nephew Thadius walks by me and says, "You're queen of the Relief Society"...oh what fun! It made me smile and chuckle. Good times and children really do say the darndest things!

One less fish

2009-07-21T21:55:00.000-07:00

It's a shame that every swedish fish has to die when you eat them...

Too much thinking...

2009-07-21T17:27:00.000-07:00

You know I was thinking today...there are some things I laugh at myself for because I used to do them when I was younger and continue to do them. And then there are other things that I used to do I am grateful I no longer do. For example:

my mom says that I used to change my outfit 4-6 times a day...lol...I still do that.

I no longer hide behind the refridgerator door to eat sticks of butter.

I seem to still the "social one" in my later years as I was when I was younger.

Let me know if there are things you still do and don't do from your childhood.

Homemade Pizza

2009-04-27T17:35:00.000-07:00

Since I am home and somewhat restless I made homemade pizza today. Yes that means even the crust. I didn't have a cheese grater so I used a potato peeler. The toppings were tomatoes, chicken and cheese. The results were so yummy if I do say so myself! I wish I could've eaten more...but my stomach has shrunk due to knee surgery and medication. Enjoy...and I know you wish you were eating this pizza too!

Tori's first birthday

2009-04-27T17:25:00.000-07:00

So yesterday was my niece, Tori's, first birthday. She is so cute and I can't believe it has been a year since she has been with our family. I know that usually the mom's and dad's of these children are supposed to blog about these events but since I have no children I am going to also! Enjoy!

Oh my Woes...

2009-04-27T17:16:00.000-07:00

So I have exhausted all of my vacation and disability at work because of my knee. Work didn't want me to jeopardize my knee and I am now getting leave without pay. Yea. Thank goodness for the counsel to save for a rainy day because it has been pouring recently for me. I have come to the conclusion that my knee is worth whatever money I am missing out on! I mean I only have one right knee. So my coworkers sent me a car and Marcia and Robyn came to bring me a cake and visit with me. They are so sweet, a girl couldn't ask for better people to work with or a better job! Here is the cake they had made. I loved it and it's so true!

ACL Surgery

2009-03-30T11:21:00.000-07:00

So I have been meaning to blog since last Thursday but being hopped up on pain medication and being in pain has prevented that from happening. As most of you all know I had ACL and meniscus repair surgery. My knee is all kinds of pretty and I am beginning my road to recovery. Hopefully it will be sooner than later but the doc says it will be a good couple of months (3 at the earliest) before I can run again. I have had a lot of support and am grateful for everyone! Thank you to all who have shown concern and been there in my time of need. Love you all!

It's been awhile and here's my story!

2009-02-24T15:01:00.000-08:00

Life is crazy and really has been for the last half of a year to a year for me. Right now I am in school, studying for my oncology boards (which I should be doing now) and working full time. And because that wasn't enough...I decided to add some excitement into my life by tearing my ACL on Valentine's Day. I know what a great way to show my love for myself. I am surprised at how well I feel and was hoping that the MRI would just show a strain. No such luck. Come What May and love it!
This is my poor excuse not to have blogged since November. I should be getting my new computer in the mail soon and will have the capability to blog more and add fun pictures!

Here are pictures of my busted knee a day after the injury occurred.

What a Waste!

2008-11-20T20:00:00.000-08:00

So starting Wednesday of this week I had to use my PTO (paid time off) because I felt like I had been hit by a mac truck. I mean what a waste, I could've used those hours sunbathing on some exotic island or cruising in Alaska. Oh well, thank goodness I have a job I guess. Well today, I learned three things, well I'm sure there are more but lets just keep it at three. 1) Nurses make the worst patients because they often self diagnose and then don't see a doctor about it. 2) I have a severe case of strep throat and tonsilitis. And if you don't believe me just have a look at my ginormous tonsils. They doctor reprimanded me then called them HUGE and said it had been a long time since he had seen any this bad. 3) I'm not one to take a lot of medication, I like to tough it out (which is probably why I am in this predicament at present) but percocet is a lovely drug. I am so excited that I might actually get some sleep tonight!

...Sorry no gross pictures of my tonsils...one additional thing I learned today, my camera broke and it's irrepairable...bummer.

Obama for President

2008-11-05T19:05:00.000-08:00

Buckle up America...it's going to be a bumpy ride!

To Dye or not to Dye? That is the question!

2008-10-27T21:38:00.000-07:00

I made a decision the other day...I am going back blonde. Goodbye brunette and hello blonde. So Tuesday afternoon found me at Zoe's Salon where I spent four hours having the dark color removed from my hair and heavy blonde highlights placed. It's weird to see myself with lighter hair and sometimes I catch myself passing a mirrored window with no recognition of my own reflection. I do however welcome the change. I mean, I always love change. Blonde's have more fun anyway, right?

P.S. In these photos my hair looks red more than blonde...but keep in mind this is a process and I have just done step #1...strawberry blonde, then blonde.

The 2009 Film Festival

2008-10-24T14:22:00.000-07:00

This year's film festival was a blast! We, The YSA's in the area all got together at the Wardman Park Marriott in D.C. to watch films that we had taped. Our ward, the Union Mill Ward did a spin off of "The Office" called...The FHE as well as a commercial called The Network (which I flexed my muscles in...embarrassing...I'll do anything, won't I?) Our ward carpooled and rode the metro downtown. We had a great time dancing and lamented when it was over. I went all out and those of you who know me, know that I don't pass up an opportunity to get "all dolled up"! My mom and I made a beautiful red dress (which I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE) for the event. I also went and had my hair done which was fun! Let me know what you think...Enjoy the pictures.

The Joys and Hazards of Running

2008-10-24T14:05:00.000-07:00

So, many of you know that running has been my life for the past couple of months. Some things have made it more difficult (i.e. the time change) to accomodate my running schedule during daylight hours. This leaves me the dilemma often times of running by myself in the dark. Here are some of my running stories/experiences from the past couple of months:

The Joys
endorphins
health
happiness
defined calves :)
It is so relaxing for me and leaves me time to clear my head/ponder about life

The Hazards
Not being able to see where I am running, leaving the possibility of spraining my ankle

Running without sidewalks and having to put my arm behind my back just so it wouldn't get hit by the passing cars...(this is my mom's favorite one! LOL)

Running across dead animals that you think are alive...(you'll have to ask about the full stories later)so far I have encountered a snake, a skunk, and a deer...I'm not going to lie, I thought I might have a "Tommy Boy" situation on my hands.

Eating peanut butter cookies less than two hours before you run 16 miles. I really don't recommend this one!

Stopping for water only once during my longest run...I mean, who needs water anyway. Overrated :)

Running at 10:30 at night in the dark by myself.

Usually when the risks outweight the benefits you stop doing whatever it is that you are doing, right? Nope, not me. I'll probably just continue on with my crazy ways and run until I can't run anymore.

Too tired

2008-10-14T19:01:00.000-07:00

Update: I had a story almost ready to post tonight when all of the sudden the page navigated away and all my work was lost :( I promised myself that I was going to go to bed early tonight so sadly I will not be recreating that post tonight. Adios, until next time which hopefully will be in the near future...goodnight!

Heroes and Villains

2008-09-23T11:45:00.000-07:00

So I never thought we would be able to top the ghetto fabulous party I threw back in March but I think we just may have this past weekend. A couple of us were ready for another night of good ol' fashioned fun and dancing...and thus was born the idea of a Heroes and Villains party. It was pretty awesome and a good excuse to get dressed up, which many of you know I love! Funny to me though how most of the girls dressed up as villains...maybe we wanted an excuse to be bad for one night...enjoy the pictures!

Apple Picking

2008-09-23T11:22:00.000-07:00

Our singles Ward went apple picking last Saturday. Once again it was a beautiful day and perfect for the activity! I love our ward. It was a lot of fun and I broke an apple in half with my bare hands for the first time. Don't worry, I'll include a picture! Now let the baking begin...I've never seen so many apples sitting in my apartment at one time!

ROAD TRIP #2

2008-09-23T11:07:00.000-07:00

Our next stop was Niagra Falls, U.S.A. and Cananda, eh?! These falls are so beautiful. The ladies and I went on two tours where we got to go into the heart of the Falls with one (Maid of the Mist) and right under the Falls on the other(Cave of the Winds). God and Jesus are such great artists. Once we spent most of the day in the U.S. we walked over to Canada and saw the falls lit up at night. We also met a group of YSA's from Toronto, Canada while there...cool, huh?! We had a pretty tiring day and were ready to stay with our gracious hosts, The Hamon's whom we met in Palmyra the previous day. Ah, the inner city of Buffalo...good times.

ROAD TRIP!!!

2008-09-23T10:38:00.000-07:00

Over Labor Day weekend I had the opportunity or took the opportunity to take a road trip. I put the word out and was able to recruit a few friends to come with! It was so much fun, we all had a great time. Our first stop was Palmyra, N.Y. which I had never been to before. The weather was perfect and conducive to the spirit that was present there. Learning about and being in all of the church historical sites was amazing, awe inspiring, spectacular, etc. I did, however have two favorite spots while visiting. The first one is probably pretty obvious:

1) the sacred grove - it was so peaceful there and neat to think that this was the place where God the Father and Jesus Christ appeared to Joseph Smith.(pictured above)

2) the replicated room in the Frame house where Joseph Smith was visited by the angel Moroni. We had the opportunity to bear our testimonies of Jesus Christ and his church while in this room.(pictured above)

The couple of days that were spent in Palmyra helped me ponder about my life and renewed my conviction to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Can't wait until I get to go back.

Cleaning Machine!

2008-09-16T11:35:00.000-07:00

So after weeks and weeks of being so busy I had no time to think, I finally got to clean my apartment from top to bottom today. This includes dusting, scrubbing the floors, laundry, cleaning my car, etc. There is something therapeutic about having a clean house. I think it has something to do with the whole "a house of order is a house of God"! Anyway, that's all for now...Now, let the FUN begin!!!

Duh, Duh, Duh...Hap-py Birt-day.

2008-09-10T21:29:00.000-07:00

Vicky requested a carrot cake for her birthday celebration this year. So like the good sister that I am :) I offered to make it for her. Wow, I don't know how many of you have made a carrot cake before but it is a lot of work! Totally worth it however! It was pretty tasty if I do say so myself with the exception of the whole "sleeping beauty" frosting fiasco! Who could help that though, it was like 90 degrees in mom's kitchen...the frosting didn't stand a chance!

P.S. I only now about two weeks later realized that I spelled Birthday wrong on the cake when frosting it...wow, I guess that's what I get for going to NOVA where "N" stands for knowledge!

TJ's Crib

2008-08-27T17:57:00.000-07:00

So I've lived in Virginia my whole long (24 yrs)life and only recently did I go to visit Thomas Jefferson's home, Monticello. It was a perfect day for it, I just wish I had more time to spend reading or chillin' in Charlottesville. But the company was well worth the few hours that were spent there. TJ was was great man, he did so much for our country and I am amazed at the legacy he left behind. Seeing the beautiful property only makes me want to own land and have what he did only on a smaller scale(not really kosher with getting millions of dollars in debt as he did). I definitely recommend visiting! I love Virginia. I think one of the most exciting things for me by visiting Monticello is that I am one step closer to accomplishing my goals for the year! Yea!

I love the Washington D.C. Temple!

2008-08-27T17:39:00.000-07:00

I love everything about the temple and I haven't even gotten to experience the best part yet. But I can't help feel peace and love when I am on the grounds. My roommate and I went to see the "Monuments of Faith" photo exhibit and the Why I Believe Fireside when these photos were taken. Beth, this is the dress I made with mom's help. Mom said that you wanted to see what it looked like so I am including a close up photo as well for you to examine.

P.S. Kudos to you Amy for having two photos chosen and displayed in the exhibit detailed above!

Peach Picking

2008-08-26T20:48:00.000-07:00

Tradition in our family calls for peach picking come around August time. I missed last year and was more than happy to rejoin the crew again. This year I have already been cherry, blueberry and peach picking and still plan to go apple picking! I definitely want to own land and maybe a fruit tree or two when I grow up :) You know, I still love climbing trees. And of course no trip was complete without going to the apple house in Lindon where they sell the best fresh, hot, apple doughnuts! MMMmmmm.....yummy.

One year older and wiser too?!

2008-08-26T20:07:00.000-07:00

You be the judge of that one! I can't believe how fast time goes by as each successive year of my life passes. Here are a few highlights from my birthday this year. Next year I'm looking at a half a century...yikes...:0)

Image 1 - mom surprised me and decorated my apartment door, how cute is she!
Image 2 - Cutting the Costco cake at work on my bday. 6 weeks off of sweets...
Image 3 - The Recycled Happy Birthday sign that has lasted throughout 4 birthdays this year!

Slumbering...

2008-08-20T21:16:00.000-07:00

Can I just say that sleep is glorious! And when I say glorious, I mean fantastic, spectacular, wonderous, fabulous, marvelous sleep. Last night I fell asleep after an exhausting day at 7:30 pm and did not wake up until 6:00 am the next morning. It made me realize what I was missing by staying up late and neglecting my ZZZzzz's. That's all.

P.S. The Olympics do not help with the whole sleep thing either. I am totally addicted to the amazing display of talent from these athletes.

2008-07-31T21:12:00.000-07:00

So this week I've been a workoutaholic. I forgot how good it felt to push my body to it's limits but also how good it felt to think and ponder about life. I haven't been doing this as much as I'm used to lately. Anyway, I really have come to learn so much about myself already. Some things I already knew, some I just discovered and many more I've yet to discover. Pretty general I know, but here are some specifics:
1) I like people who are honest with themselves and with me.
2) I don't like people who are superficial just because they want to avoid conflict or really any reason for that matter.
3) I am a daughter of God and should expect to be treated as such(including treating and talking about myself with respect.)
4) Gratitude for my trials and hope that they will end makes them A LOT easier to bear.
5) Life goes on even when you think it won't.
6) I really like making goals and then accomplishing them...I'm more than halfway done with my 2008 ones! Yea!
7) Family is AWESOME. They accept you for who your are and not who you aren't.
8)I love my job, taking care of people and being a nurse.
9)God intended life to be happy, so make the most of every day.
10) I am blessed. I mean, immensely blessed!

"Enforced change usually does not last, while productive enduring can ingrain permanent change." Elder Neal A. Maxwell.

This made me think tonight...God does not force me to change, I mustdo this on my own. "Productive enduring" denotates action. I must constantly be active in embracing the gospel and it's doctrines and principles and desiring to become better. The trials that I am faced with daily help bring about this lasting change. Persistent endurance acts as a catalyst for permanent change to ingrain these truths on my heart and I become more like the Savior, Jesus Christ. The Savior who endured every individual pain, affliction, weakness and sin. Looking forward with hope can help make enduring easier, even when I don't always know the Lord's plan/timing for me. I am so grateful for my trials. Honestly, I know I have changed and become better because of what I have experienced and endured in the past. Isn't it fantastic to know that he knows us all individually and that through His ultimate act we can change our hearts and will to become like Him? I am not as eloquent or articulate in expressing my testimony as Elder Maxwell is, but I know that his words are true.

Jessica's Baptism

2008-07-02T17:12:00.000-07:00

I know I'm only going to be 24 in a week and 2 days, (yea! send all presents to mom's house...ha ha I know, I think I am funny) but nothing makes you start to feel old like when your oldest niece gets baptized. I can't believe she is old enough...I mean, I remember when she was born. Craziness. It was a nice ceremony. Jess asked me to give the closing prayer, no problem right?! Well, when it was time for the closing song I completely broke down and then blubbered over the closing prayer. I am my mother's daughter that's for sure! How cute is my brother Thad in this picture with his oldest child. My brother's are all great men and I hope that the man I marry is as great a dad to our children as all of them are to theirs! Congrats Jessica, I love you!

Cherry Blossom Festival 2008

2008-07-02T16:19:00.000-07:00

So, after having lived in Northern Virginia my whole life I finally made it down to see the cherry blossoms as they were peaking this year. It was so beautiful and the day that I went the wind was blowing so that it looked as if it was snowing cherry blossom petals. Yes, yes I know kind of lame that I had to go by myself but I just decided that if I wanted to see them that's just what I had to do. Maybe next year one of you can come with me :)Any takers? Hope you enjoy the pics and if you haven't ever been downtown to see the blossoms, I highly and I mean highly recommend it!

I'm Officially a Blog Neglecter!

2008-07-02T16:13:00.000-07:00

So my last post was in April and I am officially deeming myself a blog neglecter! Man, I am such a slacker and really don't have a good excuse as to why I haven't posted something up here in the past two-three months. I know that many of you are on the edge of your seats waiting for an update on my oh so interesting life :) so I will proceed to indulge. Enjoy!

Posting...just to post!

2008-04-14T10:02:00.000-07:00

So I was informed yesterday by my good friend, Laura, that it has been a month since my last blog. I apologize for that...I guess I just wasn't aware that people actually read my blog. Updates include: finishing travel nursing and getting a new office job, finding a new apartment/roommate, starting to train for the Marine Corp Marathon which I will be running with my brother, Ben. Nothing too exciting has happened to me but I'll try and keep you updated as new events occur. Now addressing those who actually do read my blog...I'm sorry. I was reading back through and found multiple grammatical errors. You would never know that I been edamacated! Granted I did get my degree from NOVA, where the "N" stands for knowledge. Enjoy and I will post pictures from Easter at a later date.

Peace Out and Laura...I hope this satisfies your blogging expectations! :)

More GF Goodness

2008-03-14T11:34:00.000-07:00

My Ga-hetto Fabulous Par-teh

2008-03-14T06:16:00.000-07:00

So I decided that with all the stress in my life I needed to and should let a little soul out. In my craziness I decided to throw a ghetto fabulous party at my place. It was SOOO much fun! We had a great turn out and even had a keg of beer, root that is, there! We had awesome hip hop, rap, and r&b music. Breakdancing (which I known my neighbors loved me for) and food. I think this was the hardest part about the party. I mean what would you serve at a GF pary? I ended up having chicken nuggets, watermelon, cookies, chips, seven layer dip, m&m's...stuff like that. People did a really good job dressing up. I had to work the night before or else I would've given prizes for the best soul outfit. Now those who know me might be in doubt that I have it in me to be ghetto but I think you'de be surprised. I can GF it with the best of em'! Some people called the party racist which I personally think is insulting and absurd but just to appease we had all nationalities present. I even got to practice my tagging for part of the decorations! Enjoy the pictures. Sorry to those who couldn't come, you missed out. There's always Next time!

The Next Karl Malone

2008-02-19T06:45:00.000-08:00

So here it is a month after I posted my last blog...I am such a slacker but hopefully this post will make up for it! Happy Belated Valentine's day to all! So I'm excited to be back in my home state of Va; 1, because of my family 2) certainly not because of my job and 3, I finally get the chance to play bball again. I MISSED it SOOO much! Well this past week we had an awesome game...our team I'd venture to say is the best out there! We played against GV and crushed them 59-20. One of the best parts was that we weren't giving it our all. The next best thing was yours truly got the title of high scorer...I guess the Jazz better watch out because I might be stoppin' by for open try-outs (even though they don't exist in the NBA, do they?!) 20 points, that might even be a game high score for me. It must have been the team outfits that we all had on. All of this is getting me in the mood for March Madness...go Blue Devils!

Black Friday

2008-01-15T07:02:00.000-08:00

So Vicky and I decided to brave the stores the day after Thanksgiving this year. Zac of course had to work so Vicky and I woke the kids up early with the promise/motivation of Hot Chocolate and snacks to get to the stores early. We got out of the house later than we had wanted to and planned to but were still able to get some pretty slamming deals. An the fact that our cart had a screwed up wheel and was twice as hard to steer made it much more of a fun experience!(Remember Vicky?) All purchases I later realized had to artfully packed into my car to drive back across the country with...joy...while I was packing my car in December I was thinking..why the...did I buy all this crap! We were all exhausted by the end of the day!

Thanksgiving 2007

2008-01-15T06:54:00.000-08:00

Enjoy these pics...esp the picturesque gravy. I mean it was so close to mom's it was ridiculous. I mean after we dealt with the grease fire things got better. I never realized until this year how much work goes into cooking the WHOLE Thanksgiving dinner. Thanks mom for all those years you let us stuff our faces after all of your hard work. This gravy pays homage to you :)

The Best and Only Quadruple Date I've Even Been On!!

2008-01-15T06:36:00.000-08:00

This is a true story. At church one Sunday this guy whom I'll call Sparky (you know that whole protect the innocent stuff) asks me, "How do you feel about casual dating...?" I mean what do you say to that? H-No I don't want to go...or "you know, I really don't feel good about it"...Anyway I think I was at a loss for words so I said sure. Anyway, it turned out to be really fun. He asked what my favorite thing to eat was and of course I said Mexican. So off went our group to Albertos (which is this totally greasy 24-hr Mexican cuisine place) then to go ice skating. Well this is the part where you say, "Ah, how sweet. What a nice time!" Except for the fact that I totally biffed it hard on the ice right in front of my date just before we were about to leave. But don't worry my camera survived. I did however feel bad for my right knee which took the brunt of the fall...I think it's still bruised!
P.S. I was the only one that fell...

Ahso, Ahso!

2008-01-15T06:25:00.000-08:00

For the second girls night while out in Utah...Beth, Vicky and I got together and made Sushi (yes we made it!). It was sooo yummy. I bought...I mean I made...yeah, that's it I made the dumplings and kimchi which made the meal complete. We Palmer girls sure know how to cook and do a girls night. Then I think we attempted to watch Finding Neverland (which is one of my favorite movies) and Beth was the only survivor. To my awesome sisters, I love you and can't wait until we get to do this again! PSP!

More pics of Ireland

2007-12-29T00:39:00.000-08:00

The Isle of Green

2007-12-28T23:00:00.000-08:00

So I think that most everybody knows that I went and ran a marathon in Ireland. Well, I mean I couldn't just go and run...I had to sight see also. My friend Diane offered to go with me. So off we went a week before my marathon at the end of October. What a beautiful country...it really is every shade of green one can imagine!!! We had alot of good times...and if you have a REALLY long time I can tell you all the stories as well as show you all of my pictures! The country was rich in old architecture (which I love) and ancient runes. Pictures highlights include:

Kissing the Blarney Stone
Blarney Castle
Cliffs of Moher
The Burren
Castles
and much more...

As far as the marathon...well let's just say I finished. I injured my knee around mile 17 and finished an hour after my first marathon. Maybe not enough training, or hard enough training...well better luck next time. Just disappointed that I flew across the Atlantic to do so poorly.

London, England

2007-12-28T22:13:00.000-08:00

On the way to Ireland...Diane and I planned a long layover in England. We rode the underground into the city and got to see:

Big Ben and Parliament
Buckingham Palace
Westminster Abbey

as well as a few other things...we had a lot of fun especially when we found ourselves running through Heathrow Int. Airport(which IS the most confusing airport ever!)to catch our connecting flight to Dublin which we missed by minutes...what a workout!

Halloween Party

2007-12-28T21:56:00.000-08:00

Since I wasn't going to be in the U.S. for Halloween I thought I would throw a party before I left. Here are a few pics from the event. I was a geisha if you couldn't tell. I was worried no one would show up but hey, I actually made some friends while I was in Utah!

State Fair

2007-12-28T21:42:00.000-08:00

I went with Vicky's family and my friend to the Utah State Fair...it was so much fun! Zac and I bought "all you can ride" passes and I think we made ourselves sick with endless spinning,turning, and twirling rides. We then got to see a free SheDaisy concert (which I dragged my friend to) and am pretty sure the reason why he stopped talking to me. Enjoy. All these pics I took myself.

Highlights from the Past 3 months...

2007-12-28T21:38:00.000-08:00

So this has got to be a record in non-blogging history...I'm sorry that I am such a slacker...so now...you're in for it! Here are a few...ok more than a few highlights from the last three months!

Where Does Time go?

2007-10-04T04:06:00.000-07:00

It's early in the morning and I can't sleep. Who am I kidding...I work nights. Anyway, I sit here thinking it's been 11 years and 6 days since my father passed away. Wow...11 years and 6 days. And as each successive year passes my memory of him fades little by little. Sad that at age 23 the only memories I have are that of a 12 year old little girl. I don't feel sorry for myself because I believe experiencing these types of difficulties and trials influence and help to shape my best self. Though I can't deny the occasional pangs of emptiness I feel when I see a father and daughter together or think about all my father has missed out on in my life as well as my families'. I look forward to my children having a close and long relationship with their father that I only enjoyed for a short time. What ways help you all remember dad?
Thinking about losing my father is hard. But comprehending my mother's strength through it all is even harder. At the time I don't think I realized the depths of all my mom had to carry on her shoulders. I am grateful that she didn't just give up. My mom is the greatest, most patient, loving, caring, selfless, sacrificing, charitable (and the list could be A LOT longer) person I have ever encountered. If I am even a little bit like her I'm pretty sure my exaltation would be guaranteed. Even to this day she always puts her children and grandchildren first. I look forward to the challenge of becoming a mother like her someday. I LOVE YOU MOM! You are the bestest mom ever! Where would life be without the sacred innate responsibilities endowed to women and mothers?
Don't want this to be a "downer" blog just one that remembers those I've lost and love. Thanks for listening. Love to all.

Excited for Halloween

2007-09-20T13:49:00.000-07:00

So I decided that Halloween is probably one of my favorite holidays! Who can't appreciate the tradition of All Hallows Eve when the demons were thought to roam the earth freely on this day. I won't lie and say that I don't like dressing up and having an excuse or rather a guilt free day when I can indulge in all the candy eating I want. In fact...I can't believe that when we were all younger we used to have pillow cases as our candy bags. No wonder I looked the Alvin, from Alvin and the chipmunks when I was younger. LOL This year I get to experience this holiday in two countries...Ireland and the good ol' US of A. Some of my favorite Halloween memories include:

" Here you go fatso." - said by one of the neighbors to Andrew...it still makes me laugh so hard!

Getting money from the Saustries

Getting a coke can from "that mobile home" randomly situated on Burke Station Rd. whose inhabitants were so drunk they forgot it was Halloween and gave us the only thing they had.

Having mom drive us around to the townhouse neighborhoods so we could do as much damage as fast as we could.

Having dad say every year, " Now let me see all of your candy to make sure that it is safe to eat."

Setting up, strategizing, and having candy wars.

Making Zac wear women's pants from DI to be the Tin Man...whatever, who cares, that costume was the shiz!

Anyway, I am sure there are many more but I've had a good laugh thinking of these few. This year I have decided to have a Halloween party of my own! It is going to be alot of fun, if you have good ideas pass them along! Also, I think you should share your favorite Halloween memories in response to this post. Here are a couple of Halloween pictures from years past.

Soccer Mom...

2007-09-20T13:26:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know...I got in a car accident 2 weeks ago. Stupid really, or at least that's how I feel. Anyway, ALOT of work is needed to fix my car. So into the auto body shop on Monday it went. Well in the meantime my insurance company arranged for me to have a rental. I get to Enterprise...and well they had run out of economy size cars. Yes, right?! I get a free upgrade at least that is what I am thinking in my mind. Well, wait for it...They proceed to ask me if I am married or have children. (This is after the guy asked me if I gambled with my lucky number birthday)It turns out that my free upgrade was a minivan. YES! There it is. I have been driving around all week in a tricked out minivan. Feeling a little like a soccer mom minus the husband, kids, and soccer. LOL. I am however taking applications in that department if you know of anyone who is interested. Ha Ha, totally kidding. It's funny how differently drivers on the road treat drivers of minivans. They make every effort to get out in front of you if they can! I can't deny that I haven't enjoyed the pick up and go this 2007 Toyota Sienna 6-cylinder has compared to my 4-cylinder corolla. Although...I do appreciate the gas mileage my corolla gets. I thought that the Federal Reserve was going to do something about that...hopefully sooner than later so it won't take all of my savings to fill up this rental. Love to all...moral of the story...don't get into car accidents!

Besito...Besito

2007-09-04T09:02:00.000-07:00

Who knew that taking care of a 90 year old spanish speaking patient this weekend...would renew my resolve to learn spanish and speak it fluently! This cute old man whenever I would come into his room would pucker up his lips and say, "Besito...besito, Mamacita. Que linda." He was confused, what can I say?! I did my best to communicate, being a gringa and all! I can safely say that I got more action this weekend from this cute old man than I have in a long time. So be prepared for my awesome Spanish speaking skills in the near future!

A Show of Gratitude

2007-08-31T12:23:00.000-07:00

So I am rereading the BOM hoping to finish before Conference, which is soon. Yea, for conference I am sooo excited!!(I might actually see it in the conference center this year!) Anyway, in Nephi whenever a task is completed/commandment obeyed, Lehi and his family offer up burnt sacrifices and a prayer of thanks. This got me thinking about the things I am most grateful for in my life. Wanted to mimic their actions and show my gratitude, so here goes:

My HF, Jesus Christ and the spirit that helps guide me everyday
The Atonement
Prayer
My mom (she is a saint and someone whom I aspire to be like) and family. I love you all!
The scriptures
My life, my health, my job ( I really do love my job!)
Good Friends
Personal Revelation
Education
The Temple
My car
Good Food
Vacations and travel
Liberty and freedom
Agency
Big chunks of cookies in Cookies N' Cream Ice Cream
Good Hair days
Joy
The Internet
Peace
Books even though someone thinks I'm not a "reader" (love ya Nanc)
Hammocks
Dancing (Just ask me to do the Carlton from Fresh Prince) and music
Earth, nature, stars (I love astronomy and star gazing)
Dating and men who treat me with respect and kindness (where are you? LOL)
Intellect
Laughing and good humor
Love
Babies
my singing voice
Kissing
High Heels
Milkshakes
Rain (I love listening to the sound of rain hitting the rooftops)
Days when I can sleep in!
Musicals
Movies
cameras and pictures
A smile
Good running shoes

I am sure I have missed a lot of things I am grateful for but the list had to stop somewhere I guess. Thank you for all who are a part of my life. You all truly make me a better person just by knowing you!

Night to day...or should I say day to Night

2007-08-27T16:20:00.000-07:00

Here is my latest event. That's right...I've done it again...dyed my hair. Not the color I expected but I'm ok with it. Should lighten a little with time. Now I will truly know the answer as to whether blondes or brunettes have more fun?!!

Camping in Aspen Grove...yes that's right Aspen

2007-08-27T08:52:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Vicky's family, Beth's family and I went camping in Aspen Grove just outside of Heber, Utah. It was beautiful and we all had so much fun! It was hilarious because when we arrived the Host told Vicky and Zac that bears frequent the camp sites about 2-3 x/week. This made Vicky paranoid and the rest of us were made to lick up any spills or crumbs that dropped on the table or ground to decrease the chances of an attack. LOL. Since the campsite was so high in elevation (~ 8000 ft) the nights and mornings were chilly. I turned my car on one morning and it registered 36 degrees. I was all set though because I bought this zero degree sleeping bag that kept me nice and toasty...one of those mummy contraptions. We had camp fires, s'mores, and dancing a plenty. We were even treated with a shirtless dance from Chris. The food was great. Vicky put alot of effort into planning the menu. We had foil dinners and dutch oven cobbler the first night. The next AM we had pancakes, which yours truly cooked over an open fire(I still have all of my eye lashes but did sustain a few scalds to my hands, arms and face)sausage, and eggs. Beth and Chris had to leave so they packed up camp and headed home. Vicky, Zac, Jonathan (Zac's Brother), the kids and I all headed down to the resevoir to swim, catch crawfish, and fish. Okay so let me say that this water was freezing! I mean the kind of cold that when you jump in it's hard to catch your breath. Proud to say that I was the first to go in and stay in despite the cold and choppy conditions. I then proceeded to try to fish. Never have done it before but I think I have the basic concept down. I would love to learn more and go fishing again. We all got a little sun and Zac and I got a moderate amount. Just ask Zac about his sunburn...he he he. We had chicken and vegetables in the dutch oven for dinner then s'mores-which are some of my favorite things when camping- That night we were treated with loud neighbors, who were obviously drunk and repeatedly said "Toy Boat" to see who could say it the most times without becoming tongue tied. We were treated to this craziness until about 2 or 3 in the morning. Also...I mean, I like country music, but these folks took it to a whole new level. Lets just say I've had my country fix for the year...maybe two. Woke up made a fire, then had yummy biscuits, sausage and gravy. Packed up camp and we all headed out. Camping was SOOO much fun and I can't wait to go again. I am a little disappointed that we didn't encounter any bears as I'm sure Vicky would echo this sentiment.

Star Treatment

2007-08-26T21:25:00.000-07:00

So...Vicky and I went to see WICKED in L.A. almost two weeks ago and it was a lot of fun! Went to Huntington Beach, Hollywood and had great food! We had some really good times and one really bad one :) It was a miracle that we and my car survived the trip. Probably thinking..."why was she worried about her car, it's a 2004?" Well I'll let you in on one of the secrets to why I never want to live in Cali:
Vicky and I are driving along- I was driving- and we come upon an active construction zone. They have blocked off one lane and even have a construction worker holding one of those "SLOW" signs. Usually I interpret that to mean I should slow down, right? Well this truck behind us thought differently. He came up on my tail fast, flashed his brights and continued tailgating. I'm guessing to signal me to speed up or change lanes. Well since I couldn't change lanes nor go faster (hence the ACTIVE construction zone) I kept at my same steady pace. As the zone was ending and the lanes changed from one to two this big diesel truck speeds up, comes even with me, flips me the bird and proceeds to throw something directly at my car. Now you all know how much I love my car. I immediately had this sickening feeling in my stomach when first, I realized that something had hit my car at the speed of 60 mph and second, that there are such ignorant and dangerous people driving the highways.

Moral of the story:
Don't live in L.A. and I don't recommend driving 18+ hours in the span of three days (more if you count the hours once we got there) Maybe this experience was payback for when Andrew and I were little and got caught throwing berries at passing cars at the bus stop.

Jumpin' on the Bandwagon

2007-08-26T18:44:00.000-07:00

So I was hesitant to take part in the whole "let's start our own blog thing" that was posted on the family website until well...everyone created a blog and then I just felt left out. A second thought that came to mind was...who wants to know about my life? I mean, I don't have cute kids to post things about, I don't have a man to ga-ga over, and well to be honest I don't know enough spanish to have a bi-lingual blog site so what's the point, right? Then a certain Saturday Night live skit came to mind...I ran to the mirror and said I am Rachel Palmer I'm worth it and gosh darn it people like me(it went something like that). So here I am jumpin' on the bandwagon and creating the most wonderful blog site ever! Enjoy...at the very least I can probably promise an interesting RN story every now and again!