JACK: Out of the Box

Steak and Shake

2012-02-13T09:43:00.001-08:00

Yes. We have eaten out waaay too much this past month. And eaten frozen dinners and breakfast foods.
Why?
Because we keep passing a horrible bug around. Well, Jack and Danny pass it--I just keep it the whole time. Add pregnancy on top and wallah! No dinners.

Anyhow. This day wasn't so bad, but I was running arrneds (because I didn't feel well enough to do so other days) and ran out of time. So I picked up sandwiches and shakes. It was Jack's first chocolate shake (I think...).

Enjoy.

Update on Jack: 13 Months

2012-01-16T11:32:00.001-08:00

My how time flies when you are having fun, or being sick, or laying down to go to bed at night only to realize it is time to get up the next morning...
I digress.

Jack is...well...Jack. He is more intelligent that I think a 1 year old should be, has the most impish and testing looks, and understands what we say to him--though sometimes I think he "pretends" not to understand because it is convenient.
His new things:
1. wants to wear a tie every day--in pjs, playing, and regular clothes
2. only takes one nap--but does so regularly and it usually lasts 2+ hours in the afternoon
3. sleeps in a toddler bed and doesn't get out until he wakes-up
4. loves his Pooh Bear
5. doesn't know how to be soft with Naughty--we have to put her away sometimes because we worry about her little ribs snapping
6 LOVES Naughty kitty
7. LOVES books and will sit by me in the morning when I read scriptures and look at his own books
8. eats all by himself with a spoon--I don't have to do anything anymore SO awesome
9. gets his shoes and runs to the door when we tell him we are going outside (poor guy...because I have been sick he has been cooped up with me)
10. kicks a ball better than mom (but mom still throws better than he does)
11. graham crackers are his favorite treat
12. likes to hide mom's phone where she can't get to it (I am not supposed to lift things...so moving the fridge and couch are out-of-the-question until dad gets home)
13. is the cutest little boy who now will run to give mom and dad hugs, sit on their lap, and snuggle (FINALLY)

Here are some recent pictures:

Remember what we made people for Christmas? Well, we didn't get them all delivered because of Jack being fussy and me getting car sick...so we had them laying around...and Jack found one. It was a caramel and dark chocolate covered hot chocolate spoon. Pretty sure doctors would have frowned upon this indulgence for a 1 year old.

No, this isn't Jack. And yes, I have had a good excuse for being lazy for the past three months. And yes, I am still planning on sending out Christmas letters...more like Valentines letters now...

1st Birthday

2011-12-26T17:09:00.000-08:00

Yep. Jack is one. Officially on the 3rd. Nope, can't believe it.
We gave him a delicious little cupcake, but he doesn't really like sticky things...so the frosting didn't go over that well.
But, I was prepared with cookies--of which he ate 4.

Are we bad parents?

2011-12-26T17:06:00.001-08:00

Yes. Danny took jack on the big slide. He was pretty chill. At least he wasn't scared.

Jack Running

2011-12-26T16:45:00.000-08:00

I know it has been a while since I posted...but I haven't taken many photos.
So here are a few videos to enjoy.

This was from November, Jack had just started understanding the "gunna git ya" game.

jAck vs. wiLd

2011-11-04T05:43:00.000-07:00

Jack loves being outside.
Here, he has a love hate relationship with a pine-cone.
Love: it is totally cool
Hate: spiny as all get-out
Result: abandoned pine-cone

I don't remember what he was telling me here...

i play gAmes

2011-10-24T05:37:00.001-07:00

the culprit:

the victims:

he looks so peaceful:

HEY! where are my toys?

oh! There they are!

MOM! Why won't you pick them up for me!!?

ooo. camera.

iWALK

2011-10-14T06:55:00.000-07:00

nEw hAir

2011-10-10T10:59:00.000-07:00

botH mom and i gOt new hAir.
wEll hers got cut...and mine was onLy stYled...

what do you think?

my fAmiLy

2011-10-10T10:46:00.002-07:00

I pLay SOCCER

2011-09-30T08:34:00.000-07:00

jusT liKe dAd.

Check out that coordination.

i liKe tO READ!!!

2011-09-30T08:08:00.000-07:00

Well, i'lL be cOmpletelY hOnest: I don'T knOw how tO acTually reAd.
BUT turning the pAges is aweSome fUn.

mOre pLayiNg witH thE GuiTar...

2011-09-30T07:58:00.000-07:00

i'M mUsicAL

2011-09-30T07:29:00.000-07:00

dAd let Me plaY with hiS GuiTar.

i liKe dAd.

BYU is BACK!

2011-09-08T13:06:00.000-07:00

Proudly wearing the "Y"

Danny and Jack singing the Cougar Fight Song...

2011-09-08T12:45:00.000-07:00

This video is supposed to go with the next post...sometimes blogger doesn't work like it is supposed to.

2011-09-08T11:26:00.000-07:00

9 mOnths.
wOW.

heRe Are sOme upDates:

guEss mom isn't goIng to giVe me the tUb anymore.

my innocent face

tHis is dInner tIme at Our place...nEver a dUll momenT...

craWling haZArds

2011-08-15T05:26:00.001-07:00

no one told me that crawling had so many hazards.
my head is covered with bruises.
my nose hurts from face-planting.
my knees are rubbed raw.

and yesterday...i lost my pants.

oh...and here is my morning hair.

attiTudE

2011-08-09T06:24:00.000-07:00

some of you may still think I am still just mimicking my parents, or perhaps that I haven't yet discovered my "own" voice and personality.
this is because you don't live with me.

proof that you are wrong.

eiGht

2011-08-04T10:58:00.000-07:00

that's right folks...i'm 8 months.
in honor of it all, here are 8 things about me that you may not know:

1. i mimic. slapping the table...spitting
2. i shake my head, though i don't really know what it means (parents think it is funny...especially when i do it to strangers when they smile at me)
3. mom told some of you that i army crawl...that is almost true. it actually looks more like a fallen soldier crawl. i use one arm and the opposite foot to push me ahead, thus i move at an angle. too bad Halloween is too far away...i would make a great zombie...
3. i like to scare people.
4. i no longer have a bald spot, and my Mohawk is coming along nicely.
5. i like to chew on my two pointer fingers. but just those ones. and no sucking--just chewing.
6. i like eating Kix.
7. my favorite toy is a set of stacking cups. i like to push the stacks over and scatter them everywhere.
8. some kids are afraid of vacuums. others spiders. not me though. i'm afraid of drive-throughs. i guess we don't eat at McDonald's enough...

here's to the first 8 months!

bERrieS

2011-08-01T17:06:00.000-07:00

i ate my first berry.
and i liked it. (see picture for proof)
(Roasted Banana and Blueberry Puree--see www.amakeaday.com)

and, here is a picture of me in one of the new towels my mom made me.
i. am. adorable.

I know...it's time...

2011-07-21T06:23:00.000-07:00

Sorry it has been so long!

Jack laughs all the time now. Everyone at church (and everywhere we go) says he is such a smiley baby. Kids think the oddest things are funny...

Sometimes naughty has a hard time sharing the changing table...

The awesome baby swings at the park.

Do you see anything wrong with this picture?

here is a close-up...

guess who won this fight.

Paper Towels= $.50
Time to do the dishes= priceless

Party Weekend

2011-07-05T07:14:00.000-07:00

Being sick doesn't mean we can't have fun. It just means we look awful for all the pictures. Ignore Jack's watery red eyes, my lack of makeup, and Danny's red nose. Jack has croup, and Danny and I have colds (I thought that only happened in Winter???!).

Because Danny's job is so AWESOME, he had Friday through Monday off (which ended up being really good for him to get feeling better). Saturday we went to Kennesaw Mountain Battlefield. A crazy series of battle assaults happened here during the Civil War along with a famous Locomotive theft. We went to the museum in the Visitors center and then took a walk on one of the trails.

Not sure where the allegiance lies here...

Monday we went to a local park for some festivities. There were arts and crafts booths, lots of carnival food, games, cars, and live music. It was excruciatingly hot. All-in-all it was a success, just ask Jack: he got a balloon.

my dad rocks

2011-06-30T07:20:00.001-07:00

Hi Dan,

Here is some nice news – attached are the numbers on your new salary rate effective July 1, to be included in the July 15 check. As a relatively recent new hire, you don’t qualify for a rate increase this year. However, since you’ve been doing a very impressive job, I asked for an exception to be made.

I’m sorry I couldn’t deliver the news personally as your contribution to the company deserves. Thank you for all of your work this year and I look forward to a very rewarding year to come.

Thanks,
Linda

first time is always a charm...

2011-06-25T16:38:00.000-07:00

being born a boy, i am expected to love it.
camping. yep. the first trip at the ripe old age of 6 months.
went better then expected.

i slept both nights, enjoyed being outdoors all day, being held by so many different people, meeting great grandparents, getting sunburned, and watching so many other little kids.

here are some highlights (or rather just the pictures mom managed to take):

can you find me?

waking up

me and mom

my morning face

mornings by the campfire

where i ate

ok...i like camping.

Two Weeks Notice

2011-06-16T09:16:00.000-07:00

Since we haven't had internet for about two weeks... there have been no posts. But that doesn't mean life didn't keep going.
Thus, this is a few-words-lots-of-random-pictures post.
Enjoy.

In the new apartment. SO HAPPY!!!

Heading off to swim (a daily event).

Though we hold him most of the time in the pool, occasionally we get a few moments to swim when he sits in his lounger. Jack LOVES the pool.

Bath time in his new garden tub. Another favorite.

BUBBLES!

Jack in the box.

Eating Pumpkin.

mango maddness

2011-05-31T16:35:00.000-07:00

mmm...tropical fruit...

day two...still didn't like it.
and i have given up on peas and carrots...

manzana

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

disclaimer: i was very ready for bed when we shot this video. not sure about apples yet.

i have expressive feet.

the park

2011-05-21T14:21:00.000-07:00

love. the. park.
when we move, we will be next to an AMAZING park. it is huge, has special baby swings, and is already my favorite place to be.

angles

2011-05-21T14:04:00.001-07:00

isn't it interesting how angles give you totally different pictures of things?
for example, some pictures make me look like i have a really big head:

some pictures make me look like a giant:

some pictures make me look slim and buff...

...and some pictures...well...don't.

but you still love me anyway.

Dear Aunt Christy,

2011-05-21T13:41:00.000-07:00

you gave my mom a shirt a few summers ago that never really fit her...but she hated to get rid of it.
yesterday, she made it into a shirt for me!

So, thanks, Aunt Christy, for the Trogdor shirt.
I make it look good.

love,
jack

2011-05-19T11:02:00.000-07:00

This is Jack, the worlds creepiest baby toy.

This is Jack with Jack.

Jack, Jack attack.

Jack and Mickey

Mickey doesn't stand a chance...

more green mushy

2011-05-18T06:53:00.000-07:00

avocado...hmm.

not as bad as banana...but really guys?!
i stare at your chicken enchiladas for a reason.

PS. update on banana...it is now a "like", especially frozen.
i think i'm gunna like popsicles.

--apples are on the menu for next week--

i got sweet skills

2011-05-17T07:44:00.000-07:00

bananas

2011-05-09T17:20:00.000-07:00

because i AM the center of the world, we have decided to make every week's FHE activity me eating something new.
so far i have eaten rice cereal, peas, and carrots (and combinations of each).
and i have liked them all.

this week (starting the fhe thing) was to be bananas. mom and dad thought i was going to be ecstatic...but i didn't find them very pleasing. too sweet perhaps?
they recorded my reaction for all to see.

(Jack didn't make any of these noises or faces with the other foods...it was pretty funny. ALSO, this is almost the exact physical response that I have when I eat bananas...)
check back next week for avocado...

confinement to Georgia

2011-05-09T07:57:00.000-07:00

why do they insist on confining me?
all i want to do is move.
they SAY they want me to do that as well...

and then they put me in a strapped car seat for a WHOLE DAY!

dad the driver and naughty the navigator.

my first white shirt

2011-04-27T06:20:00.000-07:00

yep. here it is.

and I. Look. Good.

mom got me all dressed up for Easter Sunday, and the white shirt finally fits.
unfortunately, she said that this means i can't wear pj to church anymore. bummer.

i was so excited i couldn't hold still for any of the pictures, so they are blurry.

this is dad's class (minus one really cool kid, who wasn't there that day)...he is gunna miss those kids.

Making the best of it...

2011-04-20T06:41:00.000-07:00

Some of you may have heard that I bought tickets to the next shuttle launch for Danny's birthday. The one problem with this purchase is that the tickets are to an event...not a specific date. Thus, if the shuttle gets moved to another date so do our tickets (they are not refundable). I knew this going into it. I also knew that this happens a lot.
Yesterday was supposed to be the big day. We didn't see a launch. It was moved to the day AFTER we move. Figures. Oh well. We have a couple of people in mind we want to give the tickets to.
Since Danny had the day off, we decided to go and do something...but it had to "be Florida."
There is a little manatee observatory and learning center just south of us. Cost=$1. Good thing too, because all of the manatees were missing. We saw some plaster ones though. It was run by two little old ladies who are definitely on their last leg.

The first conversation went like this:
Lady: Hi. (peering through her large bifocals) That will be two. (holding up two fingers)
Danny: alright (handing her a 5 dollar bill)
Lady: (trying to punch some numbers on the register) *mumble* two, which button, two, here, no here...

*wait wait wait

Lady: two right? is that right? (pointing to her register that said 00.02) so here you go (handing back our 5).
Me: (trying not to sound demeaning) oh, actually I think we gave you this one, we get three ones back (pointing to the ones in the register that somehow popped open)
Lady: oh, these? (pulls two out and hands them to me)
Me: just ones more (she gets it out)
Lady: gosh, it's just so...mumble
Me: been one of those morning already? (trying to make her not so embarrassed, though I don't even know if she understood)
Lady: oh yes! one of those mornings...

it was 10:20am. They opened at 10. We were the only ones in the two room shop.

Next conversation with another special lady at the "touch tank":

Lady: want me to get something out for you to touch?
Me: sure, what do we have?
Lady: (points to some of the things and tells me about them) you can touch any of them if I get to keep your baby. (half smile)
Me: *laugh* sure thing (alright touch-pool-creepy-lady, keep your touchy fingers to yourself)

(this would have been ok, but she kept saying it over and over. It was a little creepy--we touched the sea star and got outta there).
The gift shop was much better.

Watching something on manatees...obviously not all that interesting.

Us and the plaster manatee.

Jack putting his feet into the ocean for the first time.

A cool tree we found.

who needs TV

2011-04-15T18:40:00.000-07:00

dad singing "kiss the girl" = funny

play time with my friend's toys

happy birthday to the ground

2011-04-13T13:55:00.000-07:00

so some poser hands me cake at a birthday party
i said, what do you want me to do with this, eat it?!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE GROUND!!!!

yes, after nearly 6 years of faithful service, the first string has snapped. on birthday eve. happy birthday.

-- jack's dad

Spit-up

2011-04-13T06:26:00.000-07:00

the doctor said it was reflux--whatever that means.
so you've heard they give medication for that, but i bet you didn't know that it doesn't help with the spitting-up. all it does is help with the acid--which i guess is a good thing. my throat should feel a little better, so perhaps i won't cry as much.
I have jealousy for other babies (as do my parents) because i can't do a lot of normal things.
tummy time is very limited (as in never, only when my parents are brave and want to clean up lots of spit-up).
every position except on my back someone holds a rag in front of me (for good reason, i will 9 out of 10 times spit-up).
sleeping on mom or dad is out of the question.
cuddling doesn't work.
being lifted above my parents head will have to wait.
sure, i like the bumbo, but ten seconds into sitting--i end up sitting in a wet pool.
i have to change my clothes ALL THE TIME.
bibs do nothing (they are helpful with the drool that is frequent nowadays, but spit-up is a totally different ballgame).
first thing i do when i am put into my car seat is spit-up. did you know that the holes for the shoulder straps go all the way through? and my aim is perfect every time.
i am not aloud on any furniture unless it is wipe-able or i have a blanket down.
i have hit inside moms shoes at church more times than i can count.
ANY kind of activity brings consequences.

i could go on.
doctor said this lasts up to 9 months. can't wait to see what spit-up and peas looks like...

on a better note, i am 4+ months. i am as strong as ever. 15lbs 8oz, 26 1/4 inches long, and healthy overall. i sleep from 8pm to 7am with a 4:30 snack. i have lots of friends and will be going to the beach in a few days. and i like being carried in a front carrier.

me and mom

me eating chicken alfredo...

me walking to go get a toy...

ok...so those last two were jokes.

Swaddling Suggestion

2011-04-07T07:28:00.000-07:00

There a re a lot of swaddling ideas out there for those of you who don't want to use blankets. Now that Jack is getting more active--I definitely see the benefit of these.

I am trying to win one (hence the post) from Make it and Love it blog.

http://www.thewoombie.com/

Jack's mom

Trying to Laugh

2011-04-03T06:46:00.001-07:00

sometimes things are hard.
laughing seems like something that would just come naturally.
it doesn't for me.
i know my parents are trying desperately to make it happen.
this is how far i have come.
almost there.
almost.

Can't a guy get some privacy?

2011-04-01T07:33:00.000-07:00

so i like being naked.

who wouldn't?
i mean, come-on, when is the last time you wore plastic underpants ALL DAY.!?
totally not comfortable.
in fact, i have started to cry every time mom puts a new one on me--just to make sure she knows that i don't like them.
dad said if i learned to use the toilet that he would let me run around naked ALL the time. something to think about.

so obviously, i like bath time. not that i laugh or giggle or smile a lot--good heavens i'm not silly--but i get to be naked the whole time. FREEEEE!

mom, of course, took pictures.

a new toy...finally

2011-03-30T07:31:00.000-07:00

i'm not the infant i was a week ago.
HELLO!!
i was getting pretty sick of losing my toys. i knew they were just sitting next to me somewhere...but i could never see them. i would play with them for a minute, and then they would disappear.
it took a good few weeks for the parental units to catch-on that i needed something more grown-up.
so they took me to a thrift store, traded in some of my old clothes, and got me this.
awesomeness.

mail

2011-03-30T07:20:00.000-07:00

i think my parents are jealous.
despite not being able to write, having no real friends, and never sending mail of my own...i get mail.
awesome mail.
this time i got some more stretchy pjs.
grandma knows me well.
and i love monkeys.

i'm taking over

2011-03-25T18:17:00.000-07:00

since i am the main subject on this family blog anyhow, i have decided that i will take over the story telling.

hope you enjoy it.

love jack

Moving

2011-03-24T06:32:00.000-07:00

Well...Danny went to Atlanta, talked to lots of people, signed a lease, and came back home.

We will be moving the 30th of April. A little sooner than we wanted, but Danny worked some sweet magic on our landlord and we negotiated out of the last three months of rent--IF we moved out by the end of April.
So there you have it. Time to start packing again.

Some reasons I am excited to leave Vero and move to Marietta:
1. Hot showers
2. Laundry in my apartment
3. no more old drivers
4. no busy road by Jack's window
5. new neighbors (we have had a lot of new people move into our nice quiet building. they are less than quiet and are quite inappropriate. I will be glad to say goodbye.)
One of our new neighbors cars:

and of course I couldn't post without new Jack pictures...his new thing is rolling to one side.

Jack loves his mirror friend

Random Updates on Jack

2011-03-18T13:28:00.001-07:00

no, for real...this is a very random post.

Probably the silliest face I have captured on camera yet from Jack.

Talking to his bear. He loves his bear. Or rather, he loves eating his bear. But they talk on occasion.

Not quite big enough for it yet. Yes, those are rolled towels to keep him centered.

How many toys can you fit into a swing?

Sad Jack...

...perhaps both fists would help...

...I guess not.

Jack and his ball.
I dont remember who gave us this ball...but I love and hate you. Jack loves this thing, can grab it very well, and can make it to his mouth for proper slobbering. However, he isn't very coordinated yet and usually ends up going in for the kill WAY too fast smacking some part of his face with this hard plastic ball. The ball bites back. Then he lets go and cries--because his face hurts and he cant find his ball.

(smack)

(must. eat. ball.)

Jack also likes the camera.
Hello World.

Parenting Class

2011-03-08T10:02:00.001-08:00

Danny and I have been going to a parenting class twice a month. We LOVE it. Last week they spoke about responsibility and work. One idea really stuck with me and I wanted to share it. It is about teaching your kids the lesson (and blessings) of giving and the lesson of grateful receiving.

They have twin daughters. When their girls were 5, they made their little Christmas Lists filled with inexpensive trivial things. Their mom didn't see any reason not to get everything on the list because it wasn't much to begin with. She completed her shopping. Christmas morning the girls were complaining about not getting some of the things on their lists--she had forgotten that she put some of the gifts in her closet! She went and got them and the girls were happy. Afterward she thought about the situation and decided that this is not how she wanted Christmas to feel. It was supposed to be about giving. Gifts were things meant to be chosen and given by the giver, not selected off of a list provided by the receiver.
The next year, Christmas lists were banned (never to be let into the house again). She had all of her kids wrap the gifts they had bought to give in the same wrapping paper (so each child had a pile of gifts with their own colored paper). Then on Christmas morning, everyone collected the gifts they had purchased/made from under the tree and each person had the opportunity to give their gifts--not having them dolled out by papa. In turn, each person was able to really receive the gifts as well--physically--from that person.
I LOVED this idea and we have decided to do this with our kids.

Waking-up

2011-03-04T07:24:00.000-08:00

Lets be honest, Jack isn't happy all day. But 99% of the time, he wakes up VERY happy. Which is good. It makes me want to start a new day when I know it will start with lots of smiles for me.
(In order of taking)

So here he is, in all his morning glory.
Just ignore my voice.

Sitting: BUMBO style

2011-03-04T07:19:00.000-08:00

No, Jack can't sit yet.

BUT, he can sit in the Bumbo. Only problem is whenever he sits he spits-up.
So we only do it on occasion.

And, NO, we don't let Naughty on the counters. But Jack REALLY likes her. So we decided to let her up for the picture to make him kinda happy.
Cute though, huh?!

Surprise Mail

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

We received a box in the mail a week or so ago from Vermont that had an "air-hole" for breathing. Hmm...

When we opened it, inside was an incredibly cuddly brown bear.

Jack loved it. He looked at it for a minute, then broke out into a HUGE smile.
Then he ate the bears face off.

This is a video of him continuing to eat the bear the next day.

Valentines

2011-02-15T08:26:00.000-08:00

(Danny bought him this shirt--thought it was appropriate for Valentines Day)

For a few weeks Danny and I joked about watching Jurassic Park for Valentines Day. Just because it would be just about the most non-romantic thing possible.

Instead, he didn't go into work because he was pretty sick--and I am still getting over whatever I got in Utah. We ended up spending the whole day in our pjs, reading, napping, and holding Jack.
Jack doesn't do so well in the evenings--not his happiest time. So aside from walking and rocking him, we managed to get in steak, What's Up Doc (kinda romantic), and I made little chocolate cakes.

All in all, very different from last year--but it was a treat to spend all day together.

Funny what a kid does to you.

Jack is starting to "talk" a lot now. It is fun to chatter oohs and ahhs back and forth.

The Blessed Weekend

2011-02-09T05:48:00.000-08:00

Yes it was awesome, priceless, and worth every minute.

We had a fantastic time in Utah--very ready to come home and get Jack back on a schedule, but it was worth every second with family. I guess you really don't appreciate the closeness until you have been far away and isolated in geezer-ville.
It felt like home. (*gasp* did I really just call Utah home?!)
Perhaps we will move back someday.

Here's the story that most of you already know.

In October we decided it would be better for everyone if we went to Utah to bless Jack. Save people a couple bucks AND we get a vacation. Then, Hoffman Style, we decided to add some good ol' lying to the trip. We decided not to tell any of Danny's family we were coming. (My family had to travel--so they had to know). We decided to tell one sister (we picked her for two reasons: #1 She is the best liar in the family, and #2 her throwing a random, middle of the week, "winter" party wouldn't be suspicious--she's just like that.), Amy that we were coming so we could have someone to get the family prepared. She had a baby girl in August so we decided to do a double blessing.
Like a saint, she planned everything and stressed over all the little details--I didn't have to do anything.

Wednesday:
After our long day of travel (leaving out house around 7:30am and getting to Provo around 6:30pm) we were finally in Utah. The family pizza winter party was held in a building at BYU and we had no idea where it was. While circling trying to find it we got two texts from Dad Hoffman (picture of the party) "wish you were here!" and "guess what! Jenny and Eric surprised us and drove here for the blessing." Danny's sister from Arizona decided to come with her family for the fun weekend as well. We were unloading our luggage as we got the second text, and walked into the party room about 5 minutes after that.
Awesomeness.
It took a few seconds for people to register that
1. who we were
2. that we were actually there
3. that we weren't really supposed to be there
Awesomeness.
Hugs all around.
Pizza, soda, family. It was a great night.

(Danny and the very happy children)

The next day we got together with my mom and Roger for some errands, playing with Jack, getting my hair done, and some great Italian food for dinner (with Kate and Mckay).

Friday was Horkley day. Jack got to meet his youngest Aunt (at almost 3 years), play with/spit-up on grandma and grandpa Horkley, and enjoy watching us eat steak and potatoes.

Saturday was the big party day. In the morning Jack and I spent time with grandma and grandpa Hoffman getting ready for the Eric's Graduation Party and the blessing later that afternoon. The boys were off playing some basket ball somewhere at BYU. We made it to the church building and met everyone there for food and boardgames.
Amy and I got our little ones into their special outfits (after Jack's bath in the church's kitchen sink--is that kosher?) and people started arriving. We even snuck in a few minutes to get a family picture.

There were a gazillion people there I wanted to talk to, sit with, hug, and go to Disneyland with. I wish there was more time. Honestly--it felt like my wedding reception all over again. So many people there to share that wonderful time with us, and not enough time to even get a picture with everyone.
Thank you all for coming.

(Key office Friends)

(Amy and Maggie)

There are many times in my life I think about being married to someone who holds the priesthood--but few that are so special as this. Danny gave a wonderful blessing. Jack means the world to us and to have a husband that provides all of life's necessities, the opportunity for me to stay home, and a priesthood example is what the Lord wants for him. Funny how it reminded me of my wedding reception, because this day I was again positively overwhelmed with the decision I had made to marry Danny. What blessings the Lord has seen fit to give me.

Getting ready for a cold Utah morning.

Riding home, spiting up.

Jack at the Orlando Airport after we arrived home.

Someone told him I was tired.

2011-01-21T05:47:00.000-08:00

10:00 pm--Asleep
1:45 am--Awake (I woke up at 1 wondering why he wasn't awake)
2:15 am--Asleep
4:55 am--Awake
5:45 am--Asleep (with fan on)
7:00 am Awake for the day

AWESOMENESS.

SWINGING!!!

2011-01-21T05:40:00.000-08:00

So, Jack sometimes likes the swing.

Sometimes falls asleep in the swing.

And (as you can see) sometimes isn't too sure about the swing.

He is beginning to make a lot of different faces--but due to the issues with my camera (won't hold battery charge for more than a minute at a time) I have been unsuccessful at getting a lot of face pictures.
So I made him have a funny face.

This picture looks very close to one of my baby picture.
I'll see if I can find it and post it.

Happily Swaddled

2011-01-17T08:34:00.000-08:00

When I slept as a child, I would go to bed in one position and wake-up in the exact same place. Making my bed as a teenager was a cinch--I slipped under the covers at night and slipped out in the morning only having to smooth the comforter a little.
I recently tried swaddling Jack (REAL swaddling, not just wrapping him tightly in a blanket)--and holy cow did he respond.

(his hair is puffy because I just gave him a bath--puffy hair makes him look like an old man)

GAS

2011-01-14T14:21:00.000-08:00

"mom, why do bad things happen to good people?"

One Month of Jack sleeping.

2011-01-04T09:47:00.000-08:00

Boy can this kid sleep (well...short spurts of sleeping...).
I can't believe how much he has already changed.
He is starting to make eye-contact and to react to faces--though no legit smiles yet.
He laughed in his sleep. It would melt your heart.
He is staying alert and happy for hours at a time now during the day.
He goes to sleep quickly at night after eating.
He gulps when he eats resulting in lots of gas and an upset stomach often.
He has unbelievable diaper timing--I change them often. Sometimes twice in the same sitting.
He kind-of likes the binky. He is very decisive.
He likes Danny playing the guitar.
He sleeps well on his back at night, but naps on his stomach when I can watch him during the day. He prefers his stomach like his dad.
He is getting a mullet.

(he has already grown out of the panda suit)

We Love Craig's List

2011-01-04T09:29:00.001-08:00

I can't help but post odd things I see on Craigslist. This is in Georgia--close to where we are moving. Thought I would share.

Red Leather Lazy Boy Love Seat Free
Date: 2011-01-03, 9:43PM EST

There is a red faux leather reclining two-seat couch sitting at 5674 Goldfield Dr, Acworth, GA 30102. It has been exposed to the weather but you can put sheets over it and it would work great as something for the basement or the sun-screened porch.

The picture was taken on the day that it snowed so the white that you see is snow and dark spots are wet spots.

First come first serve. Please pick up at your free will. Please do not disturb residents of house.

Hurry-up guys--this one's "first come first serve".
Hope it's still there when we move.
The wet spots will probably be dry by then.

BYU

2010-12-27T12:26:00.000-08:00

Jack watching his first BYU Football game (New Mexico Bowl Game).
He was happy we won.

Mele Kalikimaka

2010-12-27T12:04:00.000-08:00

but in Florida...instead of Hawaii.

My mom gave us Christmas (eve)dinner this year...it was awesome. It was the first meal I cooked since Jack was born.

Our Christmas Tree. Turned out pretty nice. I got in the habit of nursing in the living room during the night when my mom was staying with us and Jack LOVED looking at the lights on the tree. I don't know what we are going to do when we take it down--I almost don't have the heart to get rid of it.

Here is our traditional "Christmas Morning" picture. Oh the Pjs--no make-up--bed head glory.

Danny and Jack singing Christmas Carols at 6 in the morning.

Jack seeing all the presents...

He LOVED his new bath monsters.

Christmas nap.

Danny rocking Jack in the new-totally-awesome-craigslist-rocking chair he got me for Christmas.

Jack giving me the "good grief woman--stop with the camera already" look.
Danny taught him this look.

Just wanted to put a disclaimer on all these pictures...I promise I DO hold Jack. Most of the time actually. I just happen to also be the only one who takes pictures--thus they are of Danny holding Jack. I promise to make Danny take some of me and Jack soon.

Jackson's First Look

2010-12-22T13:48:00.000-08:00

This photo was captured about 3 minutes ago. We thought the moment merited an immediate blog post.

Blue Steel!

JACKSON ALAN HOFFMAN

2010-12-18T09:11:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone!

Sorry it has taken so long to get pictures up.
I'll get my story up sometime soon, but here are a few pictures to keep you satisfied.

Our first family photo.

Day-old Jack.

Four-day-old Jack.

Smiling in his sleep.

Chillin' with dad at 2 weeks and a day.

Halloween and Visiting Friends

2010-11-03T08:34:00.001-07:00

I can't believe how slow I am these days. I can't seem to finish anything. And if I don't get a nap--I'm worthless. This would explain the half-Halloween costumes. We had pants, hands, and feet planned to go along with this--but alas--this was all I could get done.
People still loved it.
Some kids still cowered away.
One cute little 3 year old Buzz Lightyear kept coming back to show his mom for the tenth time the scary skeleton. Danny laughed the last time he came and the Buzz backed-up a step and said to him mom: "mom, the skeleton is laughing at me."
We didn't know how to respond.

(The front and backs are painted--but we didn't get a picture of the backs)

Th trunk-or-treat was a lot of fun, Danny's 11-year-olds LOVED his costume and came back many times just to hang around their awesome teacher. And yes--the baby was a hit. It made me not-so-scary.

Nicole and Linda arrived in time for the chili cook-off and trunk-or-treat. They helped us decorate our car with pumpkins (Jack--the pumpkin king).

Saturday we headed off to Orlando. Danny and I used our Give-a-day Disney tickets and went to the Magic Kingdom. We had a wonderful time just taking it slow, riding a few rides, eating ice cream, and watching fireworks. My feet have yet to be as swollen as they were that night. My review--Disneyland is better,and yes Disneyland and Magic Kingdom are different.

(I look like I have a huge gut--promise there is a baby in there--week 35)

Nicole and Linda went to Harry Potter Land. For those who want a review: it is better at night with all the lights, it is small, had REALLY long lines (just to get into the stores), but was worth it for the one cool ride and butter beer.

Sunday we had the missionaries over for Halloween dinner. It was fun to have a little group over--first time! It was Sister Johnson's last dinner--she had p-day on Monday and then went home on Tuesday! We will miss her, but are excited to meet the new sister tomorrow.
Monday I received my first Florida sunburn. Because of my (and Danny's) very sun sensitive skin, I have been very careful to always use sunscreen and to go out later in the evenings as to not get burned. For some reason, being with college friends again (or just being pregnant)--all my wits left me and I forgot the sunscreen AND we went out at one in the afternoon. We did had a great time at the beach. I only went into the waves for a few minutes as I have no sense of balance right now--and the smallest wave knocks me over. But it was beautiful.
Having people we know stay with us was wonderful. It was great to have familiar faces so close for a few days. I have such awesome friends!

Hello World

2010-10-04T07:47:00.000-07:00

30 Weeks and Still Kicking

Danny and I have so many things to be grateful for. Conference always reminds me of just how blessed I am. We live in a wonderful place, gaining many new friends. We have such a loving and supportive family. I am having a normal pregnancy and we eagerly await Jackson's birth to meet him and become parents. We both marvel that Father in Heaven would give us this sacred responsibility. We have a friendship, companionship, and marriage like I never imagined possible. I live with such a kind, hardworking, brave man. I thank my Heavenly Father daily for letting me have him. If there ever was a marriage arranged in heaven, it was ours. I am so grateful for the gospel in our life. I know it is real, true, and simple. We continue to be strengthened by it's doctrine and principles. I try to see the hand of the Lord daily and am always amazed by how he blesses me. I know my Father in Heaven is aware of my family and that He is constantly guiding us to where he needs us--or where we need him.

If you want to comment, consider sharing your testimony.

A REAL Craig's List posting

2010-09-24T18:37:00.000-07:00

FREE PET BOOYON (STUART)
Date: 2010-09-24, 8:49PM EDT

one of them booyon constricter snakes that squeeze real tight is caught in my bafroom. Its obviously someones pet booyon, because it didnt try to bite me or give no attitude when i fount it, he must have crawld through the pipes or sumthin, . I dont want to flush it back down the toilet cuz it might crawl out someone elses toilet and scare them half to def. its around 3 feets long as maybe longer, Im not calling the extermenishion cuz all they gonna do is spray that stuff that stanks forever.If you wanna come get it out, call me, I stay in apartment 18-D

I NEED IT GONE ASAP!!!!!

Gotta luve livn n Flrda!

Homemaking with Danny

2010-09-24T05:22:00.000-07:00

(No, he didn't crash an actual homemaking evening like his Dad...)

It always feels good to have new things. New things doesn't necessarily mean from the store--but new to me. For example, Danny and I went to Verizon to do a little change-up. I was getting a cheap little $30 dollar thing to just have pay-as-you-go for emergencies and perhaps a new phone for Danny. Instead (because both of our phones are GOOD phones worth way over $30--we didn't want to spend money on a lame phone when we had good ones) we swapped phones. Mine wasn't compatible with the PAYG option, but his was. So, we left Verizon with "new phones" without paying a dime. Sure, now we have major identity crisis when a phone in our house rings--but it is kinda fun to have a new thing in my purse. And now Danny has to turn off the 7:00 alarm.

Second, I got a new couch. THANK YOU!!!! For all the contributors! Danny got it off Craig's List. It is only a year old and is in very good condition. Apparently, the couple was moving soon and needed it gone. On top of that, she mistakenly posted if for a hundred less than they talked about. Steal. I wasn't sure it was going to fit with room for me and my enlarging mid-section to walk around it--but it is AWESOME! Very comfy, clean, BIG, and MINE. Again...thanks--I LOVE the gift.

Third, after having the sister missionaries over every week since we got here, we decided we really needed to get some kitchen chairs. We gave them the two chairs our landlord left us (small desk-like chairs), I sat in our computer chair, and Danny sat on an end table. It worked--but we have been watching online for some amazing deal to pop-up. Again Craig's list came through. A dining set for $30 complete with 5 chairs and a table with an expando leaf. Perfect. We picked the piece of junk up and drove it home. Last summer (two summer's ago I guess--summer never ends here), if you remember--I bought some yellow striped fabric at a yard sale. Danny and I spent the better part of yesterday recovering the chair seats (we threw one of the chairs away--too dog chewed), Danny tightened all the joints, and using wood markers to touch-up the scratches (Bed Bath and Beyond for the markers...they work like a charm--thanks for showing them to me years ago mom). Now we have chairs and a table that matches--and it looks pretty good!
BEFORE

AFTER

This is pre-touch-up markers...

I'm going to miss Danny when he goes to work. Who is going to help me with my crazy ideas???!!!

Food Storage

2010-09-15T11:10:00.000-07:00

Yes people.
The reason most of us have guilt.
We know the importance.
Some of us have benefited from being prepared with it.
But come-on...who REALLY knows how to make things from non-processed wheat!

...Oh...you do.

That's great!

What if you die and your husband is left to feed the little ones.

I know my "kids" would be eating a lot of wheat patties.
(And I'm not dissing on men here because I have no idea how to use wheat either. Danny and I guessed that you grind it and make flour. But if you don't have a grinder...use two rocks?).

We have a solution. Danny and I have been agonizing over our food storage since we got married (ultimate procrastinators) and have tried to come up with ways to be prepared--but none seemed totally adequate. Then--like all Hoffman's like to do--we came up with some crazy ideas that we think somehow, somewhere, sometime would work really well. One, consisted of meals like MREs that they use in the military. But ideas is as far as it got.

I received an awesome little book in the mail from my inspired mother that put all my insane ideas into an organized, rational, doable, tasty, one-day-at-a-time, husband/children proof, way of food storage.

Phew.

It is called:
It's In the Bag
by Michelle and Trent Snow

Long awaited debut...

2010-09-09T11:52:00.000-07:00

We made a video a few days after we got here in Florida for everyone to see our new place--but alas it was too big for the site (or even email for that matter). I did take some pictures, but was so sad about the movie not loading that I forgot to put them up. Here they are. Still needs some work at this point. Apparently I still don't have any of the living room. I would take pictures right now, but...it is a little messy. Danny is organizing his tools. Tough guy. I will have to add pictures as we get rooms done. We just kind-of threw things here and there to create sanity.

Tobacco

2010-09-08T09:57:00.000-07:00

Our house smells like it.

No we didn't take-up smoking, and no it isn't the apartment's fault. Our neighbors smoke--but alas, that isn't the issue either.

It is our fault. Choice, actually.

Danny and I love the "free" section on Craigs list. For a couple of reasons:
1. We get free stuff we need and want.
2. We get free stuff that we sell on E-bay.

This was the latter.

5 boxes of 200+ books. From a smoking home. Once we were there however and the old man was so eager to help us out--we couldn't resist. Now there are dryer sheets in-between book pages, books in ziplock bags, and ziplock bags inside of scented trash bags (all dollar store items), and scented trash bags stacked in the bathroom.

I sure hope Ebay-ers like westerns.

Ahh. smile

2010-09-04T08:09:00.001-07:00

Potential and Pregnancy

2010-09-04T04:37:00.000-07:00

This was going to be a really fun post.

POTENTIAL:
Perfect day.
Surfing beaches.
New suits (well--Goodwill new).
Goggles.
Sun hat.
Boogy Board.
Danny excited.
Camera.

PREGNANCY:
No memory Card.

Aside from being clumsy of late--I am also quite forgetful. I am pretty good about writing lists--but please don't expect them to be detailed. I have a hard time now expressing what I am thinking if I am even a little bit tired. Alas, my memory card was still in the computer from the last time I took pictures.

We decided to find the nearest Costco to see how bad the drive was going to be and headed an hour south. But why waste a day trip without visiting a new beach? So, we went to Juno beach in Jupiter--which apparently has surfing. I have literally never seen waves this big in real life (I have never been to Hawaii--hint hint...my birthday is coming up). Every wave made me lose my balance (remember "clumsy"). After a few nasty ones really knocked me down and I was having a hard time even standing up straight, I let the waves to Danny and his boogy board. After a few runs he was better than I ever was. Don't get me wrong--he got wiped out plenty of times where he came up sputtering and walking like a drunkard--but he did quite well. It was a lot of fun. We played for a few hours and then went to Joann's and Costco.

Oh, we also watched 17 again. Sorry for all the fans out there--we weren't impressed, even with Clear Play. We did watch Emma a few days ago though--and loved it (well I loved it, Danny said it was a good chick flick).

There is one thing more exasperating than a wife who can cook and won't, and that's a wife who can't cook and will. ~Robert Frost

2010-09-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

I have seriously had my doubts the last few weeks. I have baked all my life, but I have burned almost everything in the oven since moving here.

1. Ah! Altitude change, you might say. Wrong--I made those changes (I impressed myself knowing that I had to change ingredients per altitude--learned that by exploding bread in Denver a few years back--never make THAT mistake again).

2. Burners aren't working properly. WRONG. I noticed that the top burner didn't get hot--obviously that is the problem. I called my landlord and asked if he could come and change it. He called me back and said he looked up my oven model and the top only comes on for the broiler. Some baker I am. I had no idea.

3. Dark pans hold in more heat. True. But not the problem. I also adjusted for dark pans.
EVERYTHING IS BURNING!!!

4. You live in Florida--your apartment must be adding to the heat in the oven. Wrong. We blast the AC. Nuf said.

5. Something is wrong with the oven. CORRECT! I actually thought this at the beginning and tried to adjust the temperature a little--but it made no difference. So I ruled it out--an oven can't be THAT far off right. WRONG. We bought a little thermometer for the oven today at Target (no I didn't have a coupon--but I felt this was a necessity. I was going insane.)

Try 100 freaking degrees TOO HOT!
I'm impressed things turned out as well as they did.

Couponing

2010-09-01T06:17:00.000-07:00

Our new hobby.
If I was excited--Danny was ecstatic.
The expression he got when he handed two packages of Oreos to the cashier along with a follow-up coupon--and didn't have to pay a dime--was priceless.

Cashier: "guess you don't owe nothin!"
Danny: big grin. I worked the system.
And we all know how much Danny likes to work the system.

We decided to keep a running total of all we save using coupons, sales, or deals (these are on things we would have bought anyway--unless they were free, like the Oreos).
Currently, since we moved here, we have saved $121.38 on all purchases. Which comes to 40.23% of what we actually paid.

Want ideas? Go here www.savingmyfamilymoney.com (or any other site like it). BUT...it does take a little work.

I have been given a gift. I can. I can WELL.

2010-08-31T11:18:00.000-07:00

(movie quote anyone?)

There are so many things to blog about since moving--and I just haven't made the time. So here is the first of many that should be.
I tried my hand at canning. No, it didn't go perfect--but the result is rather tasty. One of my favorite treats (just ask my parents) is home canned peaches. The peaches here are from Georgia and are rosy colored, juicy, and PERFECT (hence having the peach on their license plate in Georgia). So, after acquiring some canning materials and peaches from the Saturday Farmer's Market, I made my first attempt.

And aside from some rather large air bubbles that seemed to elude me (I did think I had gotten most of them out) the jars look rather tempting. I only did a really small batch to make sure I didn't mess-up a lot of good peaches. We already opened a jar to test them to make sure they taste good--and yes...they do!

I also scored on Craig's List with mangos last week. A crazy (yes, she was)lady was selling them from her trees for super cheap. Danny and I bought $5 worth and ate four and made mango fruit leather with the other six.
I am trying to have a little fruit-fun here.
Any other fruit ideas? What are your favorite fruit recipes? How do I utilize all the goodness around me?

The Sunshine State...most of the time (it rains daily)

2010-08-12T05:28:00.000-07:00

"We made it."
"Barely."
"We are never doing that trip again."
"With a cat at least.
...and possibly not with all our stuff."
"I guess that means we have to be rich enough to have someone else move it when we leave."
"Ok."

This was our conversation about Missouri.

It wasn't all that bad.
We left Hoffman base camp around eleven thirty Sunday and headed to Eric and Brianna's for lunch. On the fifteen minute trip to their apartment, the trailer decided to weave horribly and was jackknifing us into the other lane. We weren't even going that fast.
Lunch, I must say was awesome. It was the best trip-send-off-meal I may have ever gotten. Thanks so much guys.
After lunch, Danny and Eric repacked some things to try to make it a little better.
We also learned that Naughty can scale a chain-link fence in under two seconds. Remember--she doesn't have claws.
It took us over 5 hours to get to Grand Junction (usually takes just under 4) where my parents met us to help drive us over the mountains. We decided to get something to eat "real quick" at Village Inn. Real quick turned into two-ish hours. Something about cooks going on strike. Roger checked the tire pressure and the weaving problem with the trailer was fixed due to uneven tires--gotta love Uhaul.
Made it to Denver a little later than planned--due to unseen circumstances.
Spent a wonderful day with my mom, doing little things before I left, and shopping for fabric for Jackson's bed. Danny (still pretty sick at this point) watch more movies than he is willing to admit. After a nice traditional family pizza dinner with everyone (Kenny, Meggan, mom, Roger, Danny and I) we got up early the next day and took off for--somewhere.

All I remember is that we didn't get there. We blew a Uhaul tire. No, actually we SHREDDED a Uhaul tire. It was at a point in the freeway that we couldn't go anywhere...so we sat without air-conditioning on the side of the road for over two hours until the Uahul tire-fixer people decided we were important enough to rescue. In those two hours we had three other people stop to help--roadside assistance people...but unless we wanted to pay for it...you get the idea. We did get to see our first lightening-bugs--and got to hear lots of other bugs--probably ones bigger than I wanted to believe.

Motel 6 night one: good. Cool, cat only escaped once, clean shower. Success.

Another day of driving. Because nothing insanely unfortunate happened this day (aside from road construction--is there any state that is "ok" with how they look?), it was pretty successful. We ate lots of fast food, I ended up driving a lot so that Danny could read our book--time went a lot quicker when he read to us--much better than just radio.

Motel 6 night two: not-so-good. hot, ants, small browned shower, cat climbing under beds, sketchy neighbors. I was ready to leave.

Last day! This day was good mainly because we had adrenalin enough to get us excited. The only unfortunate thing this day was the toll road. We knew there were toll roads in Florida--but we picked the worst one. $20 for one road. Don't worry family, we will give you BETTER directions than MapQuest when you decide to visit. Good thing I had a little cash.
We drove in beautiful blue sky speckled with white fluffy clouds (THE SIMPSONS) on very flat roads with lots of green to both sides.
Vero Beach ("Veeeeero" Beach) finally came. We live off of the main road--literally you get off of the freeway and drive for half an hour and we are on the right-hand side.
Yes. The building is pink with turquoise accents.
Yes. There are palm trees everywhere.
Yes. We do have air conditioning.
Yes. There is a Walmart just north of us by a few blocks.
and YES! The beach is fabulous and only ten minutes away. (We went swimming for the first time yesterday at 6:00pm. Great time to go.)

We had Family Night on the beach on Monday and saw our first turtle nest. They stake them off so you don't accidentally sit on them. We also saw a sign saying "No Shark Fishing." Apparently this means there are sharks. We didn't see any swimming the other day--so I think we are ok...

Tuesday we saw an ad on Craigs List for a free black leather couch and loveseat in GREAT condition. No picture and only an address. Even though it was like 30 minutes away--we went to check it out. Yes we got a couch and it is in good condition. Danny has now owned three leather couches. This is my first one.

The COOL thing about this trip was that we saw a bunch of crabs walking on the road. It was hilarious--and yes...I made Danny get out of the car and take pictures.

We are doing well. Most of the stuff is unpacked and in working condition. Danny is still job hunting, we has applied at a gazillion places within the last few days--so hopefully soon we will hear back on some. I am trying to adjust to not having a washer and dryer in my apartment again...and hoarding quarters.
That is all for now! We made a video of our place but it is too big to put on the Blog--I will try to email it to everyone--so you can hear Danny's angelic voice.
Love you all!!!

The News

2010-05-22T08:09:00.001-07:00

Yes we are still alive. Very much so--in fact.

I have been wanting to post for a few months now, but felt I should wait--due to my past history. So alas I have said nothing about anything.

Today I am eleven and a half weeks pregnant.
We had our first doctors appointment this week and that was the cue I was waiting for. I wanted the "go-ahead" from my doctor that I was ok, normal, and progressing like a normal pregnant woman should.
To be honest it has been a tough few months. After going through two miscarriages together, you can imagine how difficult it might be for us to believe it can really be happening. I have been in and out of the doctor's office since January getting tests and biopsies done, figuring out medications, and fighting with insurances. All in all, the day the positive test came, we were skeptical and mentally decided to have a "go-with-the-flow" attitude. After the positive blood test a week later, it was a little more real. We told a few people, but decided not to shout it out until after the first appointment with the doctor.
I have been sick, tired, and hungry. I haven't been sleeping, all smells are overwhelming, and the bathroom is a constant companion. I have only broken down crying a few times--which I feel is an accomplishment. All of this is expected and is "good." All these things gave me a little comfort that things might be normal--but it was still hard. I felt detached--and I know Danny did too. Having been through the pain of losing a pregnancy mentally turned me off to this one. Daily, I still have my doubts--is that cramp normal? i missed my prenatal pill again. will the right body parts start producing progesterone like the doctor said they would? can I stop taking the medication?
Seeing the doctor on Tuesday was the much needed boost we needed. I don't think I have ever had a more positive doctors appointment. He said I looked good, my weight was good, all my concerns about cramps and such after talking them through seemed normal. Still, it wasn't until we heard the rushing little "whoosh, whoosh, whoosh" of the baby's heart beating that it all seemed ok. Seeing Danny's face light up with unbelief and excitement at the first audible beat brought my tears. I cried for joy for the first time in a long time. There really is a healthy baby in there, and it is doing great. It is going to make it here alright.
Just thought all of you should know.

And, yes, when we know the gender--we will let everyone know.

2009-11-11T20:49:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Dressing up X3: HALLOWEEN

2009-11-07T07:53:00.000-08:00

Ok...here are the pictures.
Danny and I had an awesome Halloween. We spent all day together making our costumes--and we rarely get a day together so it was wonderful!
The sewing machine was being finicky so I had to hand sew towards the end which took up a lot of time. I was supposed to be the Chiquita Banana Girl--but didn't have time to make a fruit hat--so I became a flamenco dancer--which was ok. Danny--obviously--was Edward Scissor Hands and looked AMAZING.

First we spend the dinner hour at the Hoffman's where we had a crazy dinner with bubbling purple brew, finger bread sticks, and awesome stew (A few days ago I decided that stew is one of my favorite foods...so good). After a few hours of scaring trick-or-treaters, talking, and eating, Danny and I drove to Lindon to meet up with my old roomies for a singles dance...I know...we are married...

We had a great time. Danny was a huge hit (no surprise there--just now he had the added costume awesomeness), and had lots of people--mainly girls--coming up begging to take a picture with him. It was quite funny. Made me feel pretty good about our handiwork. My roommates were the village people and looked great.

That is pretty much it...except that our car died on the way home. Apparently it needs a new transmission. Gotta love beaters...

been a while...

2009-10-26T18:17:00.000-07:00

So I haven't said anything for a while for absolutely no good reason. Life is busy. BUT WONDERFUL!
Danny and I just celebrated on Sunday a year of dating and 6 months of being married. These have been hands down the best six months of my life. I can honestly say that I have never felt so complete--life with Danny just works--perfectly.
So a few fun things have happened lately that I should document.
First: I had a birthday (shout hooray). If you ask Danny how old I am...his response would be "OLD." I guess to some 24 is old. I celebrated with the Hoffmans. It is a crazy birthday weekend in this family. So we had three cakes and lots of celebrating. Oh, and I cut all my hair off...

One evening, Naughty Kitty came in after a night playing around outside covered with motor oil. No, she didn't just step in it--but was soaked in it. I can't even begin to point fingers at which neighbors are responsible for a puddle of unprotected motor oil because all of them have multiple broken down cars sitting on their front lawns...
The cat, however unwilling, was relatively easy to clean...my bedspread on the other hand, was another story (don't worry...this is not the one my mom made us--we are smart enough not to actually sleep with that one). Lets just say that Dawn is a cure-all.

Danny is now a pilot. No he doesn't have his license yet--but he is using aeronautical terminology everywhere he can. And saying things like "babe I kissed the ground today--kissed it!" First time I wondered what type of crazy maneuvers he had to perform to make him want to come out of the sky bad enough to kiss a dirty runway...then I was informed that this meant he had a sweet landing. I will be a pilot's wife yet!

Newest update on the house: the stove and oven have stopped working. Just stopped. I am becoming an expert on microwave cooking...if there is such a thing. That and I can whip through a Taco Bell drive through like a pro.

We took a wonderful weekend to Denver and relaxed with the family. We got to see Wicked--which aside from our wedding was probably the highlight of the year for Danny. Danny is hoarding the only picture we have from the weekend...

We went to a family zombie golf party. Gotta love Halloween season. We were a zombie missionary couple...Ever wonder where you go when you die? We have the answers.

To celebrate six months together, I surprised Danny with a mask and top hat and tickets to go to a masquerade. It was very fun to dress up.

OK. That is all I have for now. More to come tomorrow, next week, or sometime in November...

There is a season.

2009-09-05T12:37:00.000-07:00

My first motorcycle ride with Ryan.

Even though most of the people who read my blog do not know who Ryan Alder is, I still decided to dedicate a post to him and his family.

Ryan and I were in the same freshman "group" that ate dinner together, ran around at midnight, went to plays, and ate ice cream at the creamery on 9th. Ryan was also my first ever real college date. He took me to a play and then to ice cream...and then gave me a hug (it was big at the time). Ryan took me on my first motorcycle ride, serenaded our apartment with opera, took us flying airplanes, and had flirting down to an art. He was a true friend--and was bluntly honest when he needed to be. Ryan had a way of making everyone feel special, needed, and as if they were his best friend.
He married Kate (who I only met once) and has a new baby girl, Cora. They were in a car accident a few days ago and Ryan was killed on the scene. Kate is in the hospital still--but will recover, and Cora is doing fine.
Though I haven't even spoken to Ryan for about a year, it is still hard to loose a friend. Please pray for his wife and little baby girl--they need lots of healing, comfort, and love.

The Happiest Place on Earth

2009-08-26T13:37:00.001-07:00

Danny and I just took our first ever road trip as a happily married couple. It was awesome. We packed our bags and headed out early Thursday morning.

The drive to California took us through Las Vegas and since I had never been there we decided that would be where we would stop for lunch. What an interesting city. Can't say it is a beautiful as all the pictures show--but then again we were there during the day. The hotels were amazing buildings--but once you got inside it was all about the money...and well...wasn't that great.

We went to a mall right there on the strip which had a food court and we ate. Danny and I walked around for about half an hour just looking at the hotels. It was unbearably hot so we decided to get on our way. Las Vegas...not really my thing.
We arrived in South Pasadena around four in the afternoon and drove to my grandparent's house. Ginny gave us one of her wonderful welcomes with a big hug and a kiss on the cheek. This was her and Danny's first time meeting. She took us up to see grandpa in his office and we all talked for a few minutes. Grandma, Danny and I looked at our wedding pictures on our computer before we all went to dinner. After dinner Danny and I went swimming and retired early because we had an early morning. It sure was a quick trip. I promised grandma we would stay longer next time.

When planning our little trip we went for the cheapest place--Motel 6. We weren't expecting much, but were very surprised to see a sheik room when we checked in. Wood floors, newly remodeled bathroom, flat screen TV. Who knew? Motel 6.

The Happiest Place on Earth. Well...if it isn't then it is a close second. Danny and I had a wonderful time riding rides, going to shows, eating food, walking around. It was a fantastic time. I think we went on Space Mountain and Indiana Jones around six times each. Awesome rides.

We drank pineapple slushies in the famous Tiki Room, visited Micky and Minie's houses, laughed on the punny Jungle cruise (yes, Danny did laugh out loud at some of the puns), rode the ferry around Tom Sawyer's Island, ate in the Pirate's ride, and marveled at Fantasia over the water.

This is the Castle during the Tinkerbell Show.

The best part of our trip however reminded us of home. Danny and I were getting ready to head home and walked past one of the covered pavillions. THere was a live swing band playing and people were dancing--only about ten couples though with many others watching. We went over to check it out. It was open dancing! Danny and I danced for a good half hour before the band was done. It was so fun--we were by far one of the best couples. When we walked out the front gates a little later a girl turned and said she had seen us dancing and we were really good. We both love dancing--it is nice to be able to go anywhere in the world and be able to show-off a little together. It was wonderful.
For us, this is a very happy place. And next time I wont forget my dance shoes.

My First Loves Finally Meet

2009-08-16T08:20:00.000-07:00

My dad had the most impeccable luck when I was a kid (and I think it is still continuing...). As his calling he worked with the young men most the time I can remember. Being the outdoorsy man he is--they camped pretty much every month. As far as I know--it never rained. Never. And we lived in Washington.
You would think, as his oldest daughter, that some of this luck would have rubbed off on me. It hasn't. I think it is a pretty mean joke. Every time Danny and I decide to do something outside, it rains. It rained on the day of m y bridals, our wedding day, every time we plan to go to Seven Peaks, all three times we have planned to wash the car, and yes--the very first newlywed camping/waverunnering trip. The week leading up to our trip was in the triple digits all week--perfect time to spend a night in a tent and the next day on the water. As soon as we got out tent up, we heard thunder, saw lightning, and smelled rain. However, with our past history of rained out activities, we expected it.

Danny and I packed our car, put on our honeymoon tidied shirts and drove up the canyon. We found a nice little camping site close to Lake Jordanelle where we would play the next morning. I had packed some pretty awesome food. We grilled kielbasa and zucchini (from my mom's garden in Colorado). Later Danny used his boy scout skills and taught me how to make a fire (again). No camping trip is good without roasting smores--which we did.

We actually slept pretty well--despite the storm. We packed everything up in the morning and drove to the lake where Danny's first wave runner was awaiting. Despite the rain, we played for a few hours. I started (having experience and knowing as soon as I gave the controls over to Danny I wouldn't get them back). The lake was glass for the first little while with us out there and we toured around looking at the shores, going as fast as we could and annoying all the late fishermen. When some of the boats started to join us, I started playing around a little more. Showing Danny my wild and crazy side.

I think it was during one of my little lessons on what not to do on a wave runner that we hit a wave dead on and experienced a major wipeout. What made it major for me was that I didn't even realize I was off the thing until I was already coming up out of the water. I went over the handle bars onto my back and Danny went over me, over the handlebars. Somehow he received a big welt (that didn't show in the picture really well)--it was a good battle wound.

We lost both our glasses. As soon as we were freezing, shivering, and realized it was much warmer in the water than on the runner, we decided to call it a day. Again we grilled--teriyaki steaks and potatoes--then drove back to Provo.
It was a wonderful little trip.

The 36th Diamond

2009-08-06T08:15:00.000-07:00

Danny is very proud to have gotten me a wedding ring with 35 diamonds in it. I love my ring. Nothing could replace it.

As many of you know:
(and Danny is acutely aware)I love jewelry...and everyone knows that diamonds are a girl's best friend. Knowing this, when Danny was figuring out what to get me for my "bride's gift"--of course diamonds crossed his mind. But how could he top the 35 diamonds he had already given me? Danny always finds a way around sticky situations like this. For my gift he had a family heirloom diamond from many grandmothers ago set into a pendant. I just dont know how he always pulls these things off.

As many of you know:
Danny and I exchanged gifts just after we left the temple after our sealing. The necklace was a huge surprise and he put it on me. I proudly wore 36 diamonds for about 2 hours. When we got to the reception to change back into our formal wear, we were running a little late so in the rush the necklace got put into a box and thrown into a bag in the basement bathroom of the museum...never to be seen again.

As many of you know:
Danny and I spent many hours agonizing over said necklace, calling every place we went, checking every lost and found, talking with every possible family member, friend, associate, janitor, etc. to try to locate the lost family diamond.

As many of you know:
I felt like the biggest looser of the century...especially knowing that his grandmother was aware of the loss.

As many of you DON'T know:
Julie called us yesterday and found the necklace in a bag in her closet yesterday. No...it wasn't her fault. I put that bag there because it also had some borrowed wedding stuff that is stored in her closet.

As many of you will soon see:
I am happily reunited with--and proudly wearing--my 36th diamond.

The Storm

2009-07-04T07:03:00.000-07:00

Having spent a few summers in Colorado, I have come to love storms. Many summer nights would find us sitting out on the porch overlooking Denver and watching the dark clouds in the night sky be lit up with lightning as the rain cleansed all the dust from the sky. I loved those nights. Storms excite and mystify me. They are things that are feared, but at the same time are beautiful and even peaceful.
That is why there was a storm last night.
Not knowing how I was supposed to have peace in a sleepless night, the Lord gave me a lightning storm. I don’t think anything else would have helped—not words, not a calm summer night. Magically, a thunderstorm helped. It gave me peace to know the Lord was aware of my feelings and needs.

Some of you may not have even known I was pregnant—we had just started telling people. I thank you for the love and congrats. It was a wonderful week. Showing Danny the positive pregnancy test was one of the happiest moments in my life that I plan on repeating multiple times. After convincing him that I didn’t fake it—that it was real, the look on his face was better than when he first got to fly a plane. It was joy. He is so excited to be a father. That night Danny and I sat in bed and joked about names and future plans—I wasn’t even disappointed that we were going to have to postpone our Disneyland trip. More than anything else this is what we wanted. It was fun to hear the genuine surprise, the laughter, and the joking from all our parents and the excitement of being grandparents.
It was a whirlwind week, letting the cat out of the bag here and there when it felt right. Too many things got put aside…we were too excited to care about dishes and cleaning up cat fur. I started having a little stomach pain—but just attributed it to “growing something inside you” pain. Apparently I should have been more concerned—not that it would have helped.
Friday I went to work and after a quick bathroom break before the lunch rush, I found that I was bleeding. I called Danny immediately. He made a few calls and informed me that if I was just spotting I was not to worry, but should probably go home and take it easy, if it was more—then I needed to go to the ER. Now, having never been pregnant before—I wasn’t sure what spotting exactly meant. I said something about “women’s issues” to my male boss and he waved his hands for me to say no more—and I drove the 20 minutes home. I bought another pregnancy test on the way and as soon as I got home I took it. Positive. I wasn’t making things up. I was pretty sure at that point that my bleeding was more than spotting. I drove to the Hospital and met Danny there. We talked for a minute and decided that I should go in. Unfortunately, since it was the day before a holiday—everything was closed or re-routed. We first were sent to the labor and delivery—who couldn’t help us. She wheeled me down to the ER. There I was put in a room—they took large amounts of blood and pumped me full of fluid. After about an hour and a half I was wheeled off to have an ultra sound. Funny how this was a routine to me because of all my past…issues. The nurses would being something up and begin to describe it and I would reassure them that I have had that before, or that I knew what that meant. I even knew not to ask the radiologist anything—they never even blink information. Danny mentioned that the radiologist talked very quietly on the phone. I heard every word because I knew that was the only information I was getting from him.
Another hour later, Dr. Hooker came back into the room and told us the news. My hormone level showed that I had indeed been pregnant, but that I had miscarried. At this point he started explaining the statistics on how one in every 5 pregnancies…blah blah blah. I always did hate statistics. None of those mattered to me. This was me. This was my pregnancy. And now it’s not.
Danny and I came home and took a nap. Of course I cried.
I knew I wouldn’t sleep. My body hurt, but I also had too much on my mind. Don’t worry—I don’t blame myself. I know there is nothing I could have done—but in the moment none of that matters. It still hurts.
I thought about this primary song. It was always one of my favorites:

Whenever I hear the song of a bird
Or look at the blue, blue sky,
Whenever I feel the rain on my face
Or the wind as it rushes by,
Whenever I touch a velvet rose
Or walk by our lilac tree
I’m glad that I live in this beautiful world
Heavenly Father created for me.

He gave me my eyes that I might see
The color of butterfly wings.
He gave me my ears that I might hear
The magical sound of things.
He gave me my life, my mind, my heart:
I thank him reverently
For all his creations, of which I’m a part.
Yes, I know Heavenly Father loves me.

I do know my Heavenly Father loves me. He gave me the rain. My body is being cleansed just as the rain cleaned His earth. I felt that He was expressing to me that He understood what I was going through. Just as the sun is sparkling off the leftover rain and the birds are singing in the new day, this pain too will pass and I will have another chance—because the Lord has promised me with His new day.

Matrimony

2009-05-06T10:17:00.000-07:00

Well folks…here it is. The official wedding week post. It is long…so pace yourself. And I don’t have any pictures yet because obviously I didn’t take any because I was in them all. Those will come later.
All I have to say is holy craziness.
I have no idea how everything got done in that week, how I saw and talked to so many different people, how I was able to find time to see my fiancé, and how I was able to keep sane (well…for the most part).

Big events of the week:
Thursday I went to the temple for the first time. It was wonderful. It was what I expected, how I imagined it would be, and it made me feel pretty good at the preparation I have taken the past few years (well…and my entire life). It was so nice to be there with so many people who love me. I felt so blessed to walk in and see family from all sides there to support me and help me feel more comfortable. Thanks family.

Friday morning I woke up in the living room next to one of my best friends, Jill. Danny and I made breakfast (waffles and strawberries) and all the roommies ate together. It was a good last morning in the apartment. I graduated from BYU. I wore a black dress, my grandmother’s pearls, and my mom’s black open-toed satin pumps. I looked good. Except all you could see were the pumps because I was wearing a dark blue zip-up tent over the top of it all. Honesty…I didn’t even bother doing my hair. Our graduation was in the Marriot Center which meant there were a lot of people and it was going to be forever long—which it was. At one point everyone in the row I was sitting on counted and compared the number of strings on our tassels. It was great fun. Time came to line-up. It was longer than the lines at Disneyland, but we got through a little quicker—and I even had an adrenalin rush on the way up. No, not because of excitement; I slipped. Yep. I am a ballroom dancer who runs, dances, jumps in heels in competition in front of hundreds of people trying to get people to watch me—and the moment I am solo with everyone in the Marriot Center watching me…I slip. Luckily for everyone I caught myself before I face-planted—as there were railings to grab onto. It wasn’t too bad—but there was irony involved. Walking up to the stage there was a slight ramp with railings. On the floor just after you stepped onto the ramp there was a laminated sign which read “Watch Your Step.” And yes, that is what was so slippery that my pump couldn’t handle. Then I proceeded to walk up to meet my dean who was smiling his mischievous little grimace. Now the deans usually whisper something like “Congratulations” “well done” “way-to-go.” I got a “you shouldn’t have worn heels.” And that pretty much sums up my relationship with Dr. Crandall. Pretty sure I have a shocked look on my face in the picture they snapped. That was pretty much all the exciting news for my graduation. Thrilling—but hey…you only graduate once (except I did graduate in High School, and someday a Masters—so in my case, you only graduate three times).

Saturday was the BIG day. I got married. I met Danny (a little late—sorry babe!) at the temple with my mom and his dad. I was surprised at all the people who were already there waiting in the lobby. The lady who was my guide explained things to me like six different times and I still forgot how she wanted me to do things—but I kept telling her that I understood. The sealer met with Danny and I before the sealing and we talked for a bit. He was a really funny guy and was very interested in Danny’s mission. It was fun to get a moment to just sit and talk. Then we went into the sealing room where everyone was waiting. There were people who came that I didn’t expect to see there and that was a wonderful surprise! Again, I don’t remember anything really about the sealing except he advised us to be good neighbors…which we plan to do—funny because it was something we had talked about before we got married. When he told us to kiss as husband and wife Danny was being all slow—I don’t know why—probably trying not to embarrass himself with doing something silly. No worries—I took care of that myself. I wanted to kiss him so I helped things along and kissed him. It brought some laughs. Then everyone was able to greet and hug us. That was one of my favorite parts of the whole day. I loved getting to hug, kiss, and talk to family members and friends that I don’t get to see very often inside the temple. It was wonderful. I held it together pretty well until Jill reached me with teary eyes. After that it was all downhill for my mascara from there. I know it was an emotional time for many (as it was for me) to be able to see me there very happily married to a wonderful priesthood holder—doing everything at that moment right.
We took some pictures at the temple but it started raining so most were taken at the museum later that night (which was nice because it gave me time to fix my makeup and rained/wind whipped hair). The reception. I don’t know really what to say. First: it was beautiful. A lot of planning, people, resources, and time was put into that and know one really knew how it was going to turn out. It just worked. For me: I don’t know where all the time went. The events we planned (cake, dancing, bouquet) went pretty smoothly, but I felt like the time went way to fast. I have to apologize about not having a line—we were going to do one, but it just didn’t work out. I, however, had a magnificent time walking around and talking to people. My mom always said I was the social butterfly in the family—and for the first time I really felt like one. It was so great to flit around and chat with people I know, love, and rarely get to see. My photographer was so wonderful and attentive—I would ask her to come over and shoot pictures with people and she was there. I think I have more pictures with my Grandpa Bob than I do with Danny! All-in-all I loved the reception. It looked exactly like I wanted it (and even better in some parts), the cake tasted wonderful, Nicole caught my bouquet (I aimed it in her direction), and I left feeling like a celebrity.
Then it was happily ever after.
No. There is more to the story. When we got back to Danny’s house to change and we went to get into the car to drive away I realized through a series of unfortunate events that I had left my purse at the reception (car keys, wallet, phone). We had to wait at Danny’s house with his family for a little over a half an hour until someone showed up with me purse. Someday Danny will think it was funny…someday.

For all of those who do not yet know where we went…Danny took me to San Diego, California.

Antelope Island---where we saw…buffalo?

2009-03-23T12:16:00.001-07:00

After a week of partying, family, wedding planning, school, and long work hours—I begged Danny to take me away. He is so good.
He picked me up at six thirty and we drove to a look-out place to catch the sunrise. I packed breakfast burritos and hot chocolate (which we packed in our new Thermos cooler…thanks Karma!).

Sunrises are quick. I haven’t seen one for quite sometime…being a morning person doesn’t mean waking-up before the sun. Anyhow…it was nice. Then we drove the hour and a half drive up to Antelope Island. The drive was pretty uneventful—except for the fact that Danny was very tired. I took over driving about 45 minutes. It was my first time driving Stacy (Danny’s car which apparently has only one purpose—to build character. Danny and I renamed it the sexy white beast.), and I realized that we are very blessed indeed that nothing has fallen off the car as of yet. When driving on the freeway with the SWB, I was sure the dashboard was going to vibrate right off the car. And I am pretty sure it will someday and if we live through it—we are going to have one terrifying story to tell…
Moving on. We arrived at the causeway and had a peaceful ten minute drive over to the island listening to the AM dial with information and history on the island and smelling the brine stench. Pretty sure we still smell like brine shrimp.
Since there are only two different roads to choose from (left or right) we chose right…and were lucky enough to see our first buffalo on Antelope Island. Yep. Not antelope—which are graceful, light footed, and lean—but big, brawny, and brown monsters. Of course we took a picture.

Then we headed to the first sandy beach we could find. I love the beach. Danny asked me the last time I had walked barefoot in Utah sand—which was never. He warned me that the sand in Utah was not usually pleasant to walk on—and I boastingly asked him when the last time he walked on Washington sand was. Washington doesn’t have sand. Washington has rocks. The sand was wonderful for the first few yards—cool, damp, and thick. Heaven. Then it turned a little rocky…then we decided leaving out shoes at the car was a poor choice indeed. We were tiptoeing down the forever long beach until we finally reached the very salty water.

I skipped my first rock since I was a little girl (I was never very good at it). Danny was a pro. It was turning out to be quite a nice day.

Then we drove all over the island, saw buffalo up close, toured a ranch, pet a horse, and finally found ourselves at the bistro. We ate buffalo burgers.
At that point we decided we were done with the island as we were tired, hot, sweaty, smelled, and the car needed gas—we did not want to be stuck alone on some deserted buffalo island with only one bag of chips to eat…
Thus we left and drove to Bountiful to see the temple. We drove around it and got very excited. 35 days.
It was a great outing. We have decided to do picnic days like this more often…and when we get married we are going to make them camping trips—as we both like camping. Life is fun.

Seattle: I love you.

2009-02-20T11:47:00.000-08:00

Seattle (or Washington State in general) has been my home most of my life. I love it. I love the rain, the green, the trees, the mossy roads---even the occasional stepping on a slug. Ok…that was a lie. I don’t enjoy slugs. They probably don’t enjoy me much either.
Danny and I flew to Seattle for Valentines weekend to spend a few days with my family. It was wonderful. We arrived Friday night and went dancing at one of my research studios. Danny got to meet some of my friends. Saturday we had a wonderful blueberry pancake breakfast with the family. Then Dad, Emily, Danny and I drove to Seattle to spend a few hours at Pikes Market. We spent time looking at some of the shops and eating traditional “Pikes” food (clam chowder, fresh doughnut holes), but the majority of the time was spent taking pictures. Emily was our esteemed photographer and the four of us had a fun time tromping around Seattle finding good places to take pictures. We were so pleased with the pictures. Em did a great job. Thanks sis!
That night we had a family Valentines dinner of amazing steak and shrimp scampi. Sunday Danny met some of my extended family which was really fun. He fits in well…they like to laugh and he likes to be funny. Dad made is famous roast and we feasted with LOTs of food and dessert. It was so wonderful to spend time with my family. All of the cousins and grandma sat crammed in the living room talking, laughing, poking, and telling old stories. It felt like old times at grandma’s sleepover. Thanks guys!
Monday we went to breakfast as a family and then got dropped off at the airport. Our trip was relaxed but perfect. We were able to spend time with my family and relax from our crazy Provo lives. Definitely something we will do again.

What I need...quite a suprise!

2009-02-13T11:48:00.000-08:00

So the "needs" idea sounded really good as I sit here at work...here is what I need--let me know if anyone is willing to assist.

Kristi needs:
1. a schedule is a must. (No kidding...I am forgetful as it is...add bride brain on top of that and I am a mess...even my schedule is a mess...)
2. Art - a community of artists and those devoted to art. Digital art, skin art, themes, wallpaper art, traditional art, photography, poetry / prose. (Apparently I need this...but I am not sure what for...)
3. to turn up the AC cause her hotness is about to burn the place down. (uh....I don't really want to respond to this one...)
4. a boyfriend. (I guess technically I don't have one...I have a fiance)
5. help. (I know. thanks guys...can we get a little more specific?)
6. therapy. (really? REALLY!)
7. your numbers. (actually...this is quite true.)
8. contacts to businesses that would be interested in having me on-location for a set time to work on employees for the cost of a copay. (Not sure what I am going to be working on...I am an anthropologist...)
9. to go to Home Depot and buy a filter for the exhaust fan over her stove—there is serious grease buildup there. (I had no idea there was even a fan there...)
10. this type of concrete feedback to grasp her own progress. (ha ha ha...please! I want feedback!)

Well...that was fun. I feel like I have a direction for fixing my life!

Game Over.

2009-01-25T12:50:00.001-08:00

Hello World!
Life is just going on as usual: school, working two jobs, church, wedding plans...I'm ENGAGED!!!
Yes. It has happened. Time for all to settle their bets. This is no joke. I convinced Danny to marry me just to show everyone it could be done. Don't worry...I didn't do the proposing--I let him do that part. I can't imagine the pressure a guy must feel in planning a proposal. They must know that a girl dreams about that event her whole life--and has gone over scenarios of good and bad proposals. I am no different. After dreaming my whole life of that one person with that one moment--I had my expectations. There were no disappointments, regrets, or do-overs. Danny knows me well and planned a magnificent evening. And he didn't even fumble over words. He promised me that he didn't rehearse so I attribute his perfect delivery and beautiful words to the obvious fact that he loves me and has wanted to say these things for some time now. Kudos to Danny. As Marry Poppins stated so eloquently: He is practically perfect in every way.
Sorry ladies...he's taken.

Alright...here is a little recap of Christmas break. I went to Denver and Christmas was good. It was nice to spend time with my family and Naught Kitty. I did a lot of sewing, a lot of eating, and a lot of laughing. The day after Christmas Danny flew out and spent the rest of the break with me. Kenny and Meggan got sealed on the Saturday after Christmas--which was wonderful. Family is great.
(And...yes...Danny is wearing a pink hat...)

Thanksgiving all over again. ..

2008-12-04T11:18:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! Ok…I know it is a week past…almost Christmas even.

Alas! Here is my Thanksgiving story:

I flew into Denver Tuesday night and greeting my mother at the airport. She was about 20 minutes late due to a hold-up at Taco Bell. No really, it was a police hold-up. I wonder how desperate you have to be to try to steal from a Taco Bell…I mean what do they really have worth stealing?! Nachos Supreme? And I can’t imaging that a single Taco Bell takes in all that much in a day…surely not enough to be worth stealing. Besides, everyone that works there speaks Spanish—and only Spanish. When they can’t understand what the hold-up is all about they might confusedly ask: “do you want mexi-fries with that?” Personally, I don’t think there was a lot of thought put into that one. Really people. Where are the good criminal minds these days—this is embarrassing.

Mother and I were finally reunited and despite a stressful meal at Taco Bell and a cold wait outside the airport. No one was seriously hurt—in fact no one was hurt at all. Custom tradition of my mother and me, we talked the WHOLE 45 minute drive home from the airport. We covered all topics and felt almost on the same page when we got home—where there was another happy reunion.

Naughty Kitty was very glad to see me. Ok, so was my family. I hadn’t seen Kenny and Meggan for more than 10 minutes since Mayish of last year. All of us sat and got all caught-up on life. It was already late so after a while we all went to bed. Naughty was very happy to be let out of her nightly bathroom confinement and sleep with me in the bedroom.

Wednesday was relaxing. The main event was tasting wedding cake. Mmm…I found it interesting that Kenny and I were on the same page with our cake consuming habits and opinions. Chocolate is good was the main consensus. It was pretty fun. I helped mom pack for her departure the next day to Sunny California. Alright, I was probably more of a hindrance. I sat on the bed and chatted while she packed. I am such a good daughter. I went to Roger’s office and he was kind enough to torture me for a few minutes. Ok that was a lie. Anyone who knows me even a little knows I LOVE chiropractic work. I also got to see mom’s new office. I thought her new piece of art was a pushpin-board—good thing I didn’t try it out…that could have been disastrous. That night we had pizza. Every holiday we have pizza at least once. I love pizza. We also watched a Veggie Tales: The Wizard of Ha’s. Changing the field of poppies to a field of puppies? Brilliance. Who really stops and frolics in a field of poppies? Now ask yourself: if there was a field of adorable puppies…would you stop? Yes. I have to say, it had some clever moments—but still not as good as Lord of the Beans. We also went shopping for the last few things for dinner the next day.

Thanksgiving day was fun-filled with cooking. I made poppy seed raspberry muffins for breakfast to go with the cold pizza. Then I stole away with the paper for Black Friday. When Kenny and Meggan arrived, we started in with the cooking. It was fun to be with them cooking away in the kitchen. By twoish we were ready to eat. Grandma came over a little earlier. We had three courses: appetizers, salads, and REAL dinner. Everything was fun and good. I love food.

Friday, I picked Meggan up around 5am and we headed to Home Depot to get mom’s poinsettias. They are only a buck on black Friday. We got her a bunch including the token red one from Kenny. Meggan and I spent the greater part of the day walking around shopping, finding deals, encouraging each other on purchases, and a great breakfast together a La Peep. What fun we had. Grandma and I spent the last bit of the evening sewing and being creative. I asked her about her and grandpa’s BYU dating story. Cute. Gotta love a good romance. Kenny and Meggan took me to dinner at one of their favorite hang-out places called Tequila. Well…actually I drove. My plate was wonderful—but unbelievably hot. For all you Spanish speakers—you can’t laugh…but how was I supposed to know what Diablo meant? It started snowing when in dinner, and the drive home felt like we were in a StarTrek show. CLARIFICATION: not because I was driving at warp speed—but because there was so much snow falling. We actually slid around a bit, but ended up making it home safe.

Then it was Saturday. I actually was ready to go home. I had one more thing to look forward to. A few weeks ago I was craving Cinnabon and found-out that Danny had never had one. Disgrace! That day went online looking for the closest one. Astounded, I found that there was only one in Utah—in concourse C at the Airport. The only way to get to that gooey goodness was to fly somewhere. Thus, when I got off the plane I bought two and met Danny. It was a great break, but there was so much on my mind needing to get done and ready for Finals week. Another Thanksgiving break over and done with. Now to Christmas!

5th Folder Picture

2008-11-11T16:17:00.000-08:00

My best friend Jill tagged me to post my 5th picture in my 5th folder. This is a picture from the Brigham Young University's Ballroom Concert two years ago. We danced to "Candy Man" and this is the final pose. I am the one cut off on the far right side. You can see my nose... It was WAY fun. Time of my life dancing at BYU.

The Last 5 Months in a few words...

2008-11-06T11:04:00.000-08:00

So I just tried to post a novel of information I wrote a few months ago about my summer experiences, but again I could not get it to work! I don't know why...lame.
So I have given up and will just start from here and just mention a few important Summer points...
First, I have another little sister. Danette had little Kylie in June. I love being a big sister! She is adorable and I got to spend the whole day alone with Katie (one of my most memorable days while in Seattle). We read books, watched a Veggie Tales movie, and I introduced her to the world of Nutella. It was brilliant.

Second, Emily and I took a trip to Forks, Washington to celebrate our love for the Twilight series. It was a blast. We had girl/sister bonding time, ate good food, and saw Twilight sites.

Third, I went on a boating, fishing, and skiing trip with my dad. I almost got up on skis...next time I will have success.

There were many many more things that happened this summer, but these were the ones I thought I could not pass by.
Now for Fall...
School is tough. I have already written over 60 pages in papers, taken ugly Statistics tests, and given three presentations.
I turned 23...and have a hard time remembering when people ask me how old I am. Weird. I had amazing chocolate cake, lots of balloons, a football game, and friends. Who could ask for anything more?

Homecoming was the next big event. Danny (dance partner from three years ago...and just happens to be the person I am dating...), took me to my first and perhaps last BYU Homecoming dance. We got all dressed up and went dancing.

Halloween is the latest event to talk about. We were the party girls from three different eras: I was a 70's Disco Dancer, Nicole was a 80's Rocker Chick, and Whitney was a 90's Club Girl--all modest of course... Halloween was also Katie's 2nd birthday...and she was Thing 1 for Halloween...perfect for a two year old.
Alright, there is an update of major events. I will try to be more on top of this whole thing.

Back in Happy Valley.

2008-07-08T19:21:00.000-07:00

Hello all.

I have been thoroughly chastised. Thus I am writing a post. Honestly it is not that I have not had anything interesting going on in my life--I just plead a forgetful mind.

For all who don't already know, my research time in Seattle has ended and I am back in Happy Valley once again for my last year of BYU. I started a new job at the Museum of Peoples and Cultures (the MPC). If you have never heard of this museum before, you are not alone... it is in the Allen Building south of campus near Brick Oven. Literally, on a hot day (so every day here) you can smell the gourmet pizza from up the street and then you can imagine the freshly brewed root beer ready to wash it down... almost makes my daily EasyMac unbearable. Almost. I have actually come to like the stuff. Well really I think that EMac and I have come to an understanding--almost a partnership. I need sustenance, it is quick, easy, and cheap...and with enough water to wash it down, the filmy leftovers of the almost plastic "cheese" on my teeth are minimal. Partnership is too strong...it is just an understanding.

I digress.

My job has been good. Not thrilling, but good none-the-less. I am currently working with two different areas: collections (not like the sheriff of Nottingham and money--more like Indiana Jones and artifacts) and education. In collections they saw me coming and said "Oooh...a new girl! (Devious little grins on Heidi and Tammy's faces) What can we do to torture her? Loans! Perfect." Really? Why would they do something like that? Thus when I work my collections hours I spend my time entering loans into the computer, fixing problems from before I was born, and pestering Heidi and Paul with impossible unanswerable questions (my little time to get back for putting me on loans). For real though, I don't mind it. I get to chat with them all day and feel like I actually know what I am doing. I'm glad they did not give me exhibition files--those look frightening...

The other part of my time I spend working with the education people. I have decided these people are the creativity of the museum. I am excited to get to learn from them. I helped (ok...watched--or "observed" rather) with the children's program called Mornings at the Museum (on Thursday however it is in the afternoon...we need to do something about that). This was fun. We pretended that we were archaeologists today and dug up beads, shells, and sherds (pottery pieces) that we put together into a pot. Kids are great. I also have a project that I am working on that is looking at all the courses taught by BYU and seeing how they might relate to the MPC. Long and tedious, but fun to find stretching correlations--I am good at those (weight lifting 101: Come and learn about building a pyramid!)...and so forth.

I moved into a new apartment as well. I have met two of my roommates and they are wonderful. They are putting up with all the stuff I brought into the apartment (NICOLE'S LOAD). But I have to keep friends somehow... There are two main attractions for me. First, I can now confidently spend my quarters wherever I like because we have a washer and dryer in the unit. Second, my car has luxury underground parking. My car smiles at me every afternoon that it does not have to be sunbathing.

The latest excitement in my life of work and research was the 4th of July weekend. I spent it with my best friend--Jill--and her family. Her parents just finished building their amazingly beautiful home up in the mountains. We spent the whole day (after the parade) eating and in the pool. Can't get much better than that. Jill and I both debuted our new swimming suits--mine is strawberry pink (I know shocker--and I even had the option of black...don't know what came over me), and Jill's is eggplant purple. We did watch fireworks that night, but I was so tired I really did not give them the attention they deserved.

Well...I think that is sufficient for now. Hope you all enjoy the update...

A Time To Live.

2008-05-30T10:56:00.000-07:00

I have to add a congratulations to my beautiful friend Charity. (she will probbaly have some harsh words for me after putting this picture online--love ya!). She had a beautiful little baby girl the other day. Being in Seattle, I have not seen them yet, but Kendra took this picture and sent it to me. I think it is adorable! Congrats also to Sean--proud father. I can't wait to actually see her myself--in a month.

2008-05-22T10:51:00.000-07:00

Here is a cloud picture I took while driving. Nice huh?

Edward--what's in a name?

2008-05-20T11:51:00.001-07:00

I want to discuss the name Edward.
I just finished reading Jane Eyre. The hero and her love in that book was named Edward. He was, well...ugly. That didn't matter--but it was a point made often in the writing. In the Twilight series, Edward is a magnificently beautiful vampire. That wasn't the reason Bella loved him, it was just a point made often. In the Narnia series, one of the high kings is named Edward--and despite all his childish mistakes, he overcomes all those and is a strong individual. Sense and Sensibility...ok, you get the point.
Thus, I started thinking about the name and where I know it from. In history the name is attributed to royalty. This is due to King Edward the Confessor. People were impressed by his Christian humility that led to his name becoming a popular name for male children. Thus now, all of these characters in these books carry the name that means "rich or blessed guard." These strong male characters have become the fantasy love of many women since their publication in the 1800s. The name Edward was wildly popular until it's consistent down slide starting in the 1920s. Now the name is not very popular at all. Then again--there have not been any books with the Edward that have made an impact as these ones did--until now the Narnia Movies and the Twilight series. I wonder if this will change that fact. I have an uncle Edward (goes by Ed)--so I can claim it a family name--can you?

Death of a Duck

2008-05-15T12:04:00.000-07:00

Today I cried.
Ok...not really. But I was devestated.

In my evolution class, my professor was convinced that we (humans as we now know them) did not just evolve--but that we killed off all the other hominids. She said it was just that we did not like the competition and wanted (natrually not consiously) to be the superior race. Thus we are the dominant creatures on the earth (Some may argue that insects rule--but really when you look at their life-span, they haven't a chance). For example--just look at the life expectacny of all the animals on earth! Aside from a very few exeptions, we have the longest. In fact, we have made it difficult for others to live by making them live in the "wild" that we have created--the human non-natrual world. This has made the lives of other living animals very difficult and confusing (Just so you don't worry about me becoming "green"--I am not saying we should burn the houses and let the trees grow over the freeway, I am merely observing and lamenting the life of a duck). This rant is becasue of the short time I observed a family of ducks today while driving my fast car on a wide freeway. I was going to Renton for an interview. I left early to avoid traffic and as such there were not many cars on the road at the time. I was on a long straight stretch of 5 lanes with a median and then 5 more lanes. There were trees on both sides of the freeway (not unusual in Washington) and it was a pleasent day. I saw a single-parent family of ducks with two ducklings frantically dodging cars trying to make it to the other side of the freeway (Whoever invented the "why did the chicken cross the road" joke is a sick and twisted person). I first saw them when they were almost across and my first thought was "I wonder how many ducklings there were starting at the other side of the road?" It made me sad. I found myself in those few seconds gripping the steeringwheel in anticipation to see if the little family would make it to safety. When they finally scampered across the last lane of traffic I let out my breath and let a huge grin spread across my face. Once again, nature had thwarted the dangerous "wild" of mankind. Not a second later however, the mom--still running (or waddling quickly) led her ducklings over a rain dranage grate. She made it safely to the otherside and turned around. To her suprise, the ducklings were nowhere to be seen. The had tried to follow her across the grate and had quickly slipped through the slats into the drain.
That is when I passed them on the road. My grin was immediatly replaced with a look of horror and my jaw had dropped. The motherly instincts in me were shocked and I was at a loss of feeling for the mother duck. I was devestated for her.
There was nothing I could do. That is why I decided to write about this little family that will forever be stuck in a rut.
It just makes me hope that I will never be careless enough to lead my poor future children over a drainage grate. And If I do--I hope it just spills outside on the otherside of the freeway. Everyone deserves a second chance.

There really are only two questions to ask with this experience.
Why did the duck cross the road?
Was it worth it?