Daydreams and Daisies

A few last things...

2009-06-25T12:15:00.000-05:00

Today I turn in my keys and my laptop to my principal. My time here has officially ended, and the new chapter is soon to begin. Summer school is over in an hour and a half. We are having a super cool water party. My principal came in and told the kids to make sure to get the teachers all wet. Sounds fun eh? Families are coming into town today, I'm going to finishing moving (Taylor: Where'd you get ALL this stuff?), and hopefully I can fit a nap in there somewhere. Oh, I can't wait to be on the beach next week!

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T16:27:00.000-05:00

Happy Fathers Day!!! I am so lucky to have such a wonderful father. He has taught me so much over the last 24 years! I have had a chance to reflect (and bawl my eyes out) as I pick a song to dance with my dad for the reception. He has always been such an involved dad, and willing to do anything for his kids. When we were little we used to have daddy daughter dates, and I looked forward to those every time they came around. Another fun thing my dad and I used to do was make spice pictures. I would choose a page out of the coloring book. Dad would put the glue in each section, then we would use all my mom's different spices to create our masterpiece. Thanks dad for all the fun times, the adventures, your patience, your perseverance, and love. You mean the world to me.

I also couldn't go without saying thank you to my soon to be father-in-law. He has raised four great children, one of whom I am lucky enough to be marrying. He has taught Taylor about hard work, having goals, and the importance of family. It has been fun to get to know him over the last little bit. Thanks Scott for being a great father!

Crazy. Times Three.

2009-06-18T20:21:00.000-05:00

Crazy. Crazy. Crazy.

First, crazy how much I love this man. He loves me for who I am and is so patient with me. He calms me down, builds me up, makes me believe I can do anything, and supports my love for Diet Dr. Pepper. He drives an hour both ways just to see me on his few and far between days off. He has called me every night, without fail, since our first date. He is wonderful and amazing and I am so lucky.

Second, crazy that I am almost his wife. What I originally thought would crawl by has simply flown. Only eight days until we are sealed for time and all eternity. I can hardly wait.

Third, crazy how I am packing up my life once again. This is my 5th move in 6 years. And we will probably move again next year, bringing the total to 6 in 7. Starting a new job, surviving grad school, finding a place to live, hopefully not dying in a tornado (that's my ultimate goal), and living on a teachers salary, all big hurdles to conquer. Luckily I get to do them all with my best friend.

This might be the last post for awhile. It might be the last post on this site. But don't worry, those that want to watch our tornado dodging adventures can follow us at themcfarlandteam.blogspot.com. Send me an email or comment with your email, cause sorry folks, it's private. (now come on, we're not that interesting that complete strangers would want to read our blog!)

The Temple

2009-06-12T22:29:00.000-05:00

Today I was able to go through the temple for the first time. What an amazing and special experience. It was so nice that Taylor was able to come. We also had my mom, Taylor's mom, my aunt Gina, and my Nana and Papa there to support me. It was great to be surrounded by family. It was a special day that I will always remember!

The Illinois Conclusion

2009-06-12T21:57:00.001-05:00

So, after I finally got my bag in Illinois, I calmed down a little bit and was able to enjoy my vacation. It was fun riding on the airplane with the boys and they took their turns sitting with "Linny". After 3 hours on an airplane, with 4 year olds, things get a little crazy.

While in Illinois we had a big party for my grandparent's 50th anniversary. It was fun to see how many friends they have and hear stories from the past. My grandpa's college roommate was there and told us some of his antics back in the day. We mostly hung out, ate, and played whiffle ball. We got in a little fishing, complete with Papa's famous Wheaties bait.

The flight back home was just as crazy, but I made it and so did my bag. I think it will be a long time before I fly anywhere again! (P.S. Did I mention we have some Cub Fans in these pictures?)

The First 24 Hours in Illinois

2009-06-05T19:21:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was completely crazy. It started off with Taylor taking me to work. What a nice treat. It just made my whole day. It made up for the craziness that was to ensue during the following 24 hours after.

After work, we went to lunch and he dropped me off at the airport. I was on my way to Illinois for my grandparents 50th wedding anniversary. My mom bought our tickets online, and therefore I was scheduled on a million different airlines. I was to fly from SLC to Boise, then to Denver, and then to Peoria. I went to Delta, they told me I was on United. Went to United, they said I was on Delta. After frantically making it to my gate, I arrived in Boise to find that United had given up my seat on the flight to Denver. I was supposed to meet my family and fly the rest of the way with them, but they had to go and I had to stay. Luckily my aunt and uncle and their adorable 3 boys were flying out an hour later on a direct flight to Chicago. Even though the airline had no idea where my bag was (details later) I got on the plane hoping that everything would work out. On the flight we watched Gilligans Island, took a little nap, and drank all the free 7 up we could get our hands on.

We arrived in Chicago, I had the twin boys with me, and we were walking through 5 lanes of traffic trying to get to the rental car shuttle. We barely made it out of Chicago and had a 2.5 hour drive ahead of us. We made it to the hotel, met my parents and settled in. I still had no bag, no pajamas, contact solution, toothbrush, etc. My mom was nice and stopped by the local walmart and picked me up a contact case and a toothbrush.

We woke up early this morning, got ready and came to Gmas and Gpas to hang out. I had been trying not to drink Diet Dr. Pepper, but after this adventure, I needed one. I called the airline this morning, and they said my bag had ended up in Minneapolis (seriously?) and that it would be here by 5pm. After that we were on a mission to change my return flight to avoid the same problems. My mom was on the phone with the airline for an hour and a half! Somehow they deleted all legs of my flight except from Denver to Boise. So, after an hour and a half of ridiculousness, I was back on my original flight, and we weren't going to worry about it. Well, not for now at least. I got my bag at the airport, the 45 minute drive took Kels and I two hours (go figure). At least now I don't have to wear the same clothes for 3 days.

I think tonight I am going to sit in the hot tub and soak it all away. Oh, and next time, I'm going to carry on and fly only on one airline.

Grand Plans

2009-06-01T18:02:00.000-05:00

Today I had grand plans. I even had to get out my planner to write them all down. Then, after summer school I went to see my favorite podiatrist (really, he is wonderful). We talked hockey, camping, and then he gave me the news. I need surgery. He asked, "Do you want to be in a boot for your wedding?" I promptly replied no, and he decided to try some other measures before we go ahead with surgery. Needless to say, the list of my grand plans has kinda gone out the window because I have a numb foot. I put my sandal back on after the procedure, and had to look like 5 times to make sure the straps were right. I felt like I had straps in between my toes. What a weird sensation. Oh well, there's always tomorrow to carry out my grand plans.

A Memorial Weekend to Remember

2009-05-28T06:57:00.000-05:00

Taylor and I had been planning since March to go and visit his parents in northern California. I was so excited. I have been to Southern California more times than I can count, so this was going to be an adventure. Plus, spending 5 days with Taylor was reason enough to go.

It was a long drive, but we stopped at In and Out to refuel. It was delicious!

Friday we woke up early and headed to San Francisco with Tay's parents and his sister. I was excited to go to San Francisco. We went to Golden Gate Park, walked around Haight Ashbury, went on campus, and went to Pier 39. Despite the freezing cold and ridiculous wind, it was such a blast! It was a day well spent.

Saturday we woke up early (again) because Taylor was determined to beat Megan at a game of tennis. Tay is one of those people who can do anything he tries. Isn't it annoying? I was the designated photog, and sat on the sidelines and took pictures.

After the fabulous bridal shower that Taylor's mom's friends threw for me, we went out to the lake. We wakeboarded and got rocked on the tube. Let's just say Taylor's dad took us for quite a ride. One run and I was done!

Sunday we went to church, looked at old pictures of Taylor growing up, talked wedding plans, and just relaxed. We ate a scrumptious dinner of Tri-tip and rolls, baked potatoes, salad, and dessert. We packed up and tried to mentally prepare ourselves for the long drive home.

Monday morning we got ready to leave. It was quite the task because we had lost Taylor's cell phone and sunglasses. We cut our losses and just left. We made it to the gas station down the road and realized we had the keys to the suburban. We had to drive back home. Then we decided to go to the storage unit and look for the missing items in the boat. No luck. Then we headed out again. 15 minutes into the drive Tay's parents called to say they had found them. We drove back to get them, and then left again for the 3rd time. An hour and a half later, we were finally on our way.

It was such a nice relaxing weekend, and I am excited to go back in four weeks! I love my new family and all the "McFarland Adventures" we had over the weekend. Let's just say we were never short on laughs and fun. Thanks Scott and Stacy!

Almost there...

2009-05-20T15:45:00.000-05:00

In 24 hours I will be in warm, sunny California. Here is what is to come:

-Hanging around San Francisco.

- Touring Sacramento

-A bridal shower

- Swimming and boating on the lake

-Delicious Sunday Dinner (Tay has put in multiple meal requests)

-Seeing my fabulous soon-to-be in-laws.

-Spending 5 uninterrupted days with my man... and 18 hours in the car.

Did I mention... I CAN'T WAIT!!!!

Dance Festival 2009

2009-05-18T22:03:00.000-05:00

It's true. We made it to the dance festival. This officially marks the beginning of the end. Every year I am in charge of making up the dance for the whole second grade. We started learning it way back in April, so the kids were ready to show off what they had been practicing. Besides the speaker starting to smoke mid-performance, it went off without a hitch. And, it was nice for the other second grade teachers to go along with my crazy idea to tye-dye shirts for every second grader! I think they turned out great. I'm sure going to miss Geneva when I'm 1,000 miles away in Kansas!

Itching

2009-05-13T12:38:00.000-05:00

Itching.... to be here:

To eat here:

To be with him:

7 long days and I will be!!!

Butt officially kicked...

2009-05-07T21:05:00.000-05:00

So tonight I went to Spin Class (my friend Leslee got me hooked last year!) I absolutlely love it! But tonight, there was only two of us in the class. Personal attention is great, but I think the instructor went crazy on us cause were regulars. Let's just say I got my but kicked. I can't remember the last time I sweated that much. Though at about 4:00pm I was seriously considering not going, I'm glad I went. I always am. I'm going to sleep well tonight!

2009-05-03T18:26:00.001-05:00

(Goodbye beautiful mountains. At least we
captured you in our engagement pictures!)

In about two months this blog will be shut down. You can follow the happenings of the McFarlands at themcfarlandteam.blogspot.com. It will be private, so if you want to be able to see all of our adventures in Kansas make sure to text, call, email or post a comment with your email address so I can send you an invite! Have no fear, I still havea about two months, so you'd better believe that I'm going to innundate this dang website with my 2 cents!

The past 5 days have been so much fun. Here's why:

Wednesday: Stacy (My wonderful future mother in law) was in town so we met her in Salt Lake for dinner. I always order the wrong thing, and then regret it, but Tay let me have some of his (isn't he wonderful?).

Thursday: I headed up to Park City for my last round of meetings for the associates program. All the meetings have been about improving our classrooms, schools, and school district. These two days we focused on change. I found it so perfectly fitting. An answer to prayer. There are many changes happening for me this summer. I'm not nervous one ounce about getting married. It's the picking up and leaving everything I've ever known part that kind of gets me thinking. This is what I learned at my meeting:

Change is a journey and not a blueprint.
It's not that we're so in love with the old ways or afraid of change, but it's that place in between trapezes. it's the part in the middle that frightens us. It's like Linus when his blanket is in the dryer. There's nothing to hold on to.

I'm excited for a change. I couldn't do it if I wasn't going with my best friend.

Friday: Slept in, took a nice hot shower, went to my meetings, was done by two, got a pedicure. I went up to Ogden and met Taylor for his dinner break. I hung out at Brianne's hous with her two cute kids.

Saturday: Taylor's cousins threw me an amazing Pampered Chef Bridal shower. I seriously got SO MUCH stuff. It was fun to meet everyone and I couldn't be more excited to be a part of the family. Thanks Kara and Brianne! After that I went to Ronna's to finish my veil. I absolutely LOVE IT. It's a short little birdcage veil with feathers and rhinestones. I ended up staying at Ronnas. Erin and I convinced her that we needed pizza and a movie. We had a girls night, and even though I live 15 minutes away, we had a little sleepover. Gotta love cousins.

Sunday: Went to my cousin's baby blessing. Baby Bridgette is so cute. She seriously does not cry. I learned something about my family (well, I think I've always known this but..): At the blessing there was a ton of my Uncle Dave's family and only a handful of my family (Gina's family), but I'm not kidding my family is SO LOUD! You wouldn't have even known the Murphy's were there with how loud we are. Love it!

Now I'm home relaxing. Only 3 more Mondays of school. Hard to beleive, kinda a relief. Then good ole' summer school starts. Did I mention that this week I have my bridal pictures, cake testing, more school meetings, and I'm flying home on Friday. Crazy, crazy, life.

You Might Want To Know...

2009-05-03T10:45:00.000-05:00

I have so much on my mind and so much to post about, but I can't get it all figured out in my head, so until I do, I'll leave you with this. I saw this on my friends blog and thought is was kinda funny.

65 Questions You Are Rarely Asked

1. First thing you wash in the shower?
Hair

2. What color is your favorite hoodie?
Blue

4. Do you plan outfits?
Yes, usually the night before.

5. How are you feeling RIGHT now?
Excited to see family, and thankful that I had such an amazing four days with friends, fiance, and family.

6. Whats the closest thing to you that's red right now?
my hairspray bottle

7. Tell me about the last dream you remember having?
Last night I had a dream, but I can't really remember what it was about. The last one was that I had really long hair on my wedding day. That's wishful thinking.

8. Did you meet anybody new today?
I met lots of new people yesterday, will meet more today at Bridgette's blessing.

9. What are you craving right now?
Last night it was pizza. Erin and I went and got a pizza, watched a movie, and had a girls night. Thanks Ronna!

10. Do you floss?
Yes

11. What comes to mind when I say cabbage?
Asian Salad that I eat all summer.

12. Are you emotional?
It depends on the situation. Sometimes I surprise myself. I cried watching Grey's Anatomy the other night. haha!

13. Have you ever counted to 1,000?
Yes

14. Do you bite into your ice cream or just lick it?
Lick it.

15. Do you like your hair?
wish it was longer, but then I want to cut it all off. I like it, but never feel like I can style it right.

16. Do you like yourself?
Most of the time.

17. Would you go out to eat with George W. Bush?
Yes, I think there is much to learn from everyone.

18. What are you listening to right now?
my church CD

19. Are your parents strict?
Being the oldest, I wasn't allowed to do things that my siblings were. I was also a pretty good kid. I never had a desire to rebel, so that made it eaiser.

20. Would you go sky diving?
Maybe, for money.

21. Do you like cottage cheese?
Only with yogurt and grapes in it.

22. Have you ever met a celebrity?
Yes. I literally RAN INTO Larry King. (He's little).

23. Do you rent movies often?
Lately, I have been more.

24. Is there anything sparkly in the room you're in?
A couple of pairs of shoes, jewlery. Oh, and this gorgeous ring on my finger. ;)

25. How many countries have you visited?
3- Cayman Islands, Mexico, and does the U.S. count???

26. Have you made a prank phone call?
Yes.

27. Ever been on a train?
Not that I remember, but I want to. I tried to convince Taylor that we should ride the train to Sacramento in a few weeks. 16 hours wasn't too appealing.

28. Brown or white eggs?
White

29. Do you have a cell-phone?
Yes

30. Do you use chap stick?
Yes, daily.

31.Do you own a gun?
Yes. My dad bought me my own gun when I was 8. It's at his house though. I'll get it some day.

32. Can you use chop sticks?
No.

33. Who are you going to be with tonight?
Family and roomates.

34. Are you too forgiving?
I don't think there is such a thing.

35. Ever been in love?
Yes

36. What is your best friend(s) doing tomorrow?
Going to school.

37. Ever have cream puffs
Yes

38. Last time you ate a snickers?
Not a huge fan. Can't remember.

39. What was the last question you asked?
If Jenni was paying her rent today.

40. Favorite time of the year?
First week of June

41. Do you have any tattoo?
Nope

42. Are you sarcastic?
Yes

43. Have you ever seen The Butterfly Effect?
Parts of it.

44. Have you ever walked into a wall?
Yes, unfortunately this has happened numerous times.

45. Favorite color?
I love brown, but with accent colors like red or mustard yellow.

46. Have you ever slapped someone?
Yes, playfully.

47. Is your hair curly?
No

48. What was the last CD you bought?
Reflections of Christ

49. Do looks matter?
Yes

50. Could you ever forgive a cheater?
I would like to think I could, but I don't think I could. Betrayal is huge.

51. Is your phone bill sky high?
No, thanks to my teacher discount from Verizon wireless

52. Do you like your life right now?
Love it!

53. Do you sleep with the TV on?
Nope.

54. Can you handle the truth?
Usually

55. Do you have good vision?
I have horrible vision. But my soon to be Father in Law is an amazing ophthalmologist. Lasik is hopefully in my future.

56. Do you hate or dislike more than 3 people?
Hmmm.. depends if I'm at work or not.

57. How often do you talk on the phone?
Daily

59. What are you wearing?
black pencil skirt, green shirt, belt

60.What is your favorite animal?
dogs (only certain kinds)

61. Where was your favorite picture taken?
My friend's wedding.

62. Can you hula hoop?
Yep. I hold the record on WiiFit. so there.

63. Do you have a job?
Yes. And I love it. Can't imagine doing anything else.

64. What was the most recent thing you bought?
Gelato. Another splurge for our girls night.

65. Have you ever crawled through a window?
Yes, at Taylor's apartment. Don't ask.

More real stuff coming soon!

Realizations of Reality

2009-04-28T21:51:00.000-05:00

Kelsey and Grant packed up their moving truck this weekend, and are currently headed into the large abyss we call Texas. I was talking to my mom today, trying to cure her of her depressed state as she realizes that this is the first of many moves over the next few months. First Kels and Grant moving to Texas, Taylor and I moving to Kansas in July, and Robbie moving to Provo sometime in August. Oh, the life of an empty nester. It's wierd to think that we will all be so spread out. Kels and I will only be 5 hours apart, but for the past few years we have only been 20 minutes apart. Today I called her at 6:45 am hoping to talk to her before she took off. She didn't answer. And still hasn't called me back. It was a realization that she is no longer just a few minutes away. Now I will have to rely on the phone and her blog to keep me updated. I also thought I'd be here when Rob went to BYU. I dreamed about having him over for Sunday dinners and going to his Hockey games. Last night as I put on my BYU Hockey shirt for bed, I realized that I might not get to see him play any games. I got kinda sad. I guess we have all done some realizing here in the past little while. You realize that life changes, people change and go on adventures, and things dreamed up in your head rarely come to fruition. Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining one ounce. I wouldn't change my life right now for anything. Absoultley nothing. You just realize that all the changes you once anticipated are reality, and sometimes that bites.

Seen The Wizard Of Oz Lately?

2009-04-22T16:08:00.000-05:00

So someone must have heard our complaints about all this weird weather here in Utah. Someone also must have thought we needed a change. In July Taylor and I will be moving to......

WICHITA, KANSAS!!!!!

Taylor got accepted to Wichita State to complete his Masters in Sports Administration. I knew he would get in, but it's just nice to know for sure. I am so proud of him. He is going to do great. It will be an adventure for sure, but I'm glad I'm going with my best friend. We're not in Utah anymore Toto!!!!

Spring Break...More Like Winter Break.

2009-04-16T18:52:00.000-05:00

Spring break has been wonderful...and very busy. Easter started it all off with a bang. I spent the weekend up in Ogden. Went to church with Bri, Court, Kara and Brandon, had amazing dinner courtesy of Pam and Co., played outside in the fleeting sunshine, and played the Wii (yes, I did beat Taylor in bowling). Let's just say Doubles Tennis is not our best sport.

Monday we took our engagement pictures. Four hours and nearly 500 pictures later, we were beyond satisfied with how they turned out, and starving. Taylor had heard rumors about 5 buck pizza, "You can get all the toppings you want for $5?" They closed at 9, and we knew we couldn't make it to Ogden by then, so we called ahead and picked it up in Layton. Taylor ate as I drove, and tried to feed me a few bites. We were that hungry.

Tuesday we hung out, finished registering, and went to Kels' dance show. It was great, and Taylor was a great sport for going with me. I must admit he offered to go with me, but may change his mind in the future. I mean, it can be shocking if you've never seen guys in tights.

Wednesday I got my oil changed, learned that I need new tires, learned that they are going to cost me about $800, and stressed about it all day. Met the lady that's going to make my veil. I also got my engagement pictures, and LOVE them even more than I thought I would. I was also in charge of the barbeque for my ward. I wondered how many people would want to endure a barbeque in the snow, but when you feed them, they will come. It was a success.

Thursday I woke up to about 5 inches of snow. Yes, snow in April. So much for Spring Break, it feels more like Christmas. Went to the gym, kinda overdid it I think. I met my dear friend Kacey at Jason's Deli. Ran some errands. Spent 2 hours scanning old pictures with Kelsey for my grandparent's 50th aniversary in June. And now am preparing for a cousin sleepover. Movies, painting nails, pizza, and no boys allowed. Sounds fun to me.

Only 3 more days of break. Somehow I don't think I'll really be able to rest. It's been a BUSY, BUSY, BUSY, "Winter" break!

Here Mom...

2009-04-07T08:30:00.000-05:00

So my mom called me yesterday and said she had been getting a lot of questions about my ring. It seems that the picture that I posted before was not a very good picture and people have been thinking that my ring is "open". I was having a hard time picturing what she meant, but in order to alleviate her having to explain it to everyone, here are some pictures. My ring is a round cut diamond mounted on a thick solitaire band and the sides come up almost to the top of the prongs. We put two pave bands on either side. I LOVE IT! Don't mind the fact they were taken at school with my little Mac. You get the idea.

I told him we are having all girls...

2009-04-05T22:36:00.001-05:00

What do you think about my little new baby Kennedy?
MakeMeBabies.com - What will your baby look like?

Maybe We'll Just Adopt

2009-04-05T22:35:00.001-05:00

What do you think about my little new baby Jackson?
MakeMeBabies.com - What will your baby look like?

A Much Needed Reunion

2009-04-04T23:03:00.000-05:00

Me, Beni, Megs, Kace, Amber (and little Lincoln)

Today I got to see some of my dear, dear, dear friends. What's the joyous occasion you may ask? Well sweet Amber is having a little boy in a couple of months, and Megan and Beni threw her a great shower. Lauren, fresh from the mission was there, and so was Kace. Good friends. Good conversation. Oh, and amazing treats! What more could I ask for on a snowy/rainy/windy Saturday?

Weddings According to Second Graders

2009-04-02T21:38:00.000-05:00

I got to go and pick up my ring today. My kids have been asking everyday, "Do you get to go pick up your ring today Miss Peterson." They have been very funny about this whole wedding stuff.

Yesterday, the first day of April, T came in and said, "Miss Peterson, you get married this month!" He was so excited! I had to tell him that although I wish it were true, it's not til June.
The other day we had inside recess (because it was SNOWING!!!) and a few of my girls came up to me with their little whiteboards. Amid their giggles they managed to ask, "Can we have Mr. McFarland's signature?" I smiled and said, "Well, he would have to be here to give that to you." They replied, "No, you can just do it."
Taylor and I talked on the phone at work the other day. He was going to try to come visit me at school. He asked, "Can I bring each kid a Mountain Dew?" Though I knew he was joking, I promptly said "No! You won't have to deal with them the rest of the day. I will." We already know who will be the "fun" parent. Reminds me of all the things my dad let me do when mom wasn't home.
We were talking about families today as my class is working on their autobiographies. I showed them a picture of my family and one little boy asked, "Where is your husband?" Apparently, they think I'm already married. Being engaged is a hard concept for 7 and 8 year olds.
I am inviting my students to my reception and today I was telling them that we would probably have ice cream sundaes. With the way they reacted, you'd thought I was passing out free passes to Disneyland!

It's been fun sharing all the details with my class. They are so excited for me which makes me even more excited (if that's possible)! Thanks to all of you who have given your warm wishes and congrats!

Officially Official

2009-03-30T15:17:00.000-05:00

Yes, it's true. I'M ENGAGED!!!! Taylor and I will be married in the Salt Lake Temple June 27th. I'm so excited!!! I am so lucky to be marrying a man who loves me so much, who loves the Lord, and who has such a good heart. These past three months have been filled with late night dinners, driving back and forth from Ogden to Lehi, sleeping at relatives houses, fun filled Saturdays and spending time with our families. I have loved every minute of it.

My parents came in this week for Robbie's lacrosse tournament. It was nice to hang out with them Thursday, Friday and part of Saturday. Taylor's parents were in town too, so after Rob's game we met up with them at the Gateway. They were nice and picked up my ring in Provo before they met us. We had gone in a few weeks before (after looking at what felt like a million other places) I knew what I wanted and showed Tay. You can't really tell from the picture but it's a solitaire setting that comes up on the sides with two pave bands on either side. It was torturous knowing that they had the ring....I wanted it! We met up with my family for dinner at Macaroni Grill. It was wonderful to have everyone meet before the wedding. I think it just eliminated some of the "parents meet the parents anxiety". I couldn't have asked for it to go better. We all hit it off wonderfully.

After dinner Taylor was like, "Let's go drive around." I kinda whined about it. Ok. I really whined about it. We had been outside all day watching lacrosse and I was exhausted. I was driving. We were kind of a mess. I couldn't see out of my "bone dry" contacts, and Tay had just taken some medicine and was not able to watch the road. He directed me, without looking, and we ended up at Ensign Peak. From here you can see all of the Salt Lake Valley. I love it at night with the lights. It was freezing outside. More whining from me. There were a lot more people than normal. More whining. He coaxed me out of the car and we walked down the hill a little bit away from all the people. And then...he got down on one knee, said all those wonderful things, and asked!!!!! I of course said YES!!!!

Now here is where it gets interesting. My hands were freezing, and the ring slid right on. I wore it the rest of the night and actually fell asleep with it on. When I woke up in the morning I finger looked like a sausage and Taylor's dad had to help me soap up my finger to get it off. I developed some nice bruising around my knuckle and it hurt all day. I was beyond sad. I just wanted to wear it so bad!!! I carried it around in my purse and stole glances of it all day. Today I took it back to the ring shop and they sized it. Ends up, they got the size wrong and it was a whole half size smaller than we ordered. Ugh. Now I won't get it back til THURSDAY!! How the heck am I supposed to wait that long. I guess it's just one more lesson in patience!

p.s. I am so EXCITED!!!!!

(don't mind the nasty picture of my hand. I think I was too excited to realize how swollen it was getting. That's what happens when you have no circulation in your fingers!)

Where is Spring?

2009-03-26T13:04:00.000-05:00

So, isn't it supposed to be spring? When I think of spring I think of this.

Instead I am sitting in my classroom with 17 noisy eight year olds who are reveling in the snow because for them it means inside recess. Oh, I wish I found the joy that I once had for inside recess. It's a different feeling being on the other side of the fence. Oh and did I mention that I get to sit in the freezing cold and watch lacrosse tonight. Aside from the fact it's freezing, I'm excited to watch Robbie play. Then the highlight of my night: I get to see Tay when he get's off work. I try to ignore the fact that it's not until 10pm....I used to go to bed early. :)

Thanks Kim!

2009-03-24T19:33:00.000-05:00

Today was just kind of a blah day. Not great, but not horrible either. Many know that I love to get mail. I love going to the mailbox and seeing something with my name on it. Imagine my surprise when I went to the mailbox and there was a key. Now you only get a key when there is a package too big to fit in your normal box. Imagine my even greater surprise when the package was for ME!!!!

My very talented friend Kim, who lives all the way in Indiana, sent me the cutest bag that she made! I absolutely love it and can't wait to use it! Thanks so much Kim! It completely made my whole week!

An Early Easter Weekend

2009-03-17T16:56:00.000-05:00

This weekend I finally got to go home. I hadn't been home since Christmas, which for me is a long time! It was wonderful because we were all home, which hasn't happened since Thanksgiving. Mom was in heaven with us all there! We ate lots of good food, hung out, watched movies, made pzookies, learned that next time we'll drive and just enjoyed being spoiled.

Warning: LOTS of pictures to follow.

Taylor and I at the airport. We got there at 9:45 for our 11:00 flight, which quickly turned into our 12:00 flight, and ended up being our 3:00 flight. Four hours later we finally got out of the SLC airport. Don't worry, next time we will drive. That night we met up with Heath and Josh and went to Mongo for dinner, and then had it for breakfast and lunch on Saturday. YUM!

Saturday we went shooting. We shot handguns and rifles. Dad keeps all the milk cartons from home, puts colored water in them, and uses them as targets. Let's just say all the men were quite impressed with my aim. I used to go target shooting with my dad when I was little. EVen have my own gun. Seems I haven't lost my touch! I just liked watching the milk cartons explode when we shot them with the rifles.

Saturday night we went out for Sushi. My parents were quite surprised when about a week before we came I called and said, "Can we go for sushi?" They about had a heart attack. I have been known to gag and whine and complain when we go to sushi. I think I have finally acquired a taste for it though. I thought everyone would be impressed, but now they just give me crap for the way I eat it. Can't a girl get a little credit? I love this picture of Robbie. He felt a little left out all weekend. Poor guy!

Sunday wrapped up with a good Easter lunch, an Easter egg hunt for the little boys, and getting our Easter baskets. Taylor and I were both spoiled with movies, play-dough, candy etc. Our favorite thing (well, mine at least) was our coloring books. I love coloring books and new crayons. I think I am quickly converting Tay to loving coloring too (I must admit, he is a better colorer than I am. I have a hard time staying inside the lines still.)

Overall, it was a fantastic weekend (apart from getting sick). I can't wait to see my fam in a week when they come to Utah for Rob's lacrosse tournament. Thanks Mom and Dad for a great weekend!

Teaching School = Perpetually ill

2009-03-16T11:02:00.000-05:00

ugh. I hate not feeling well. I hate being at work when I don't feel well. I don't know how moms do it. I'm exhausted from standing for five minutes. My head feels like it's going to explode. There are periods where the whole room is spinning. And my tummy is deciding that it's not going to be agreeable (and it doesn't have anything in it!) When I'm sick I just want to be taken care of, and luckily for me a very kind gentleman took good care of me last night! Right now I just want to be home in my bed sleeping the day away. ugh. Oh and I hate how whiney I am when I don't feel good. Sorry to all those who have to endure this.

Crafting Corner

2009-03-11T21:31:00.000-05:00

So my latest crafting project has been headbands . I know they are huge (that's kinda why I like them). I know my dad would have 100's of comments about them, but I don't care. As babies he never let us wear headbands. Call this my rebellion. I'm not totally satisfied with how they came out, but you live and you learn, and I can't complain cause they took me all of 5 minutes. I made them interchangeable, so I can wear them with any headband, or by themselves. I'm sure there are many more to come in the future!

More Random Musings

2009-03-09T19:18:00.000-05:00

So I have had some random thoughts over the past few days. Unfortunately if you are reading my blog, you are being subjected to the randomness.

Why can't life be easy? In no way am I complaining. I am being realistic. Patience is something that I am currently and constantly learning. It's hard for a girl who has always known what she wants.
I am NOT GOOD when things are up in the air. I loathe the unknown. It has a tendency to stress me out. Call me OCD, call me Type-A, but I love planning and knowing exactly what is to come. This is not always a positive quality.
I ran into someone from back home today. I was genuinely glad to see her. Then as I was driving home, reflecting, I remembered back to our childhood and was filled with not so positive memories. Why couldn't I have just focused on the fact that I was happy to run into her.
On a more positive note, I'm going home this weekend. I'm so excited. It'll be the first time we have all been together since Thanksgiving. I'm excited to eat at Mongo, sleep in the dark basement, hang out with the little boys, eat home cooked meals, give my little bro a big hug, and just relax.
One of the curriculm coaches from the district is bringing 6 first year teachers to come watch me on Wednesday. I thought she was just bringing one. My first thought "Where are all these people going to go?" My room is small, and packing 7 more adult bodies in is going to be a treat. I'll get $75 and a gift card to Cold Stone (which Taylor appreciates!)
Driving home today it started snowing. Hard. Ugh. It's March. Can't it be Spring already?
Only two days of work this week. Sweet!

Basketball Bonanza

2009-03-09T19:13:00.000-05:00

This weekend Taylor and I went to the Utah high school 4-A and 5-A basketball games. Being out of high school for six years, I had forgotten how intense high school basketball is. Both games were so close and so intense. Both were huge upsets. Provo got beat by West which ended Provo's 40 game winning streak. Lone Peak, who has won for 3 years straight, was upset by West Jordan. We literally watched 6 hours of basketball (plus lots more on ESPN). It was a fun way to spend our Saturday.

2009-03-06T13:42:00.000-06:00

It's Friday. Hallelujah. I only have to really work two days next week. Real work means teaching. Bring it on. The end. P.S. I get to see these crazy people next week! LOVE THEM!

Jazz Game

2009-03-01T11:31:00.000-06:00

Last night Taylor and I cashed in a Valentines gift and went to the Jazz game. They played the Sacramento Kings, so we obviously were cheering for different teams. It was a good game, but should not have been as close as it was. I enjoyed not being in the nosebleed section (as I have been for the other games I've been to.) I told Taylor I had to remind myself to watch the actual game rather than the big screen, because I have always gone and been so far away that you just end up watching the big screen. This time The actual game was closer than the screen!

I am also enthralled by people at sporting events. Don't get me wrong, I love watching the game, but it's just so interesting to watch other people too. It was a great night and we are definitely going to do it again.

Gum at School is a No-No

2009-02-27T14:31:00.000-06:00

I know it seems there's been an overload of "school" posts, but I just can't help this one. So, D had something in his hand today and when questioned about it this is how it went:

"D, what is in your hand?"

"Gum"

"Where did you get it?"

"I found it in the boys bathroom when I was going."

(Holding back my utter disgust!) "Do you know how many germs are in the bathroom? Do you really think it's safe to be playing with a piece of gum that someone else chewed that you found in the bathroom?"

The only thing I could think of to say after that was "Go throw it away." Then I washed his hands and doused him in a healthy amount of hand sanitizer. I'm still wary of touching him. Honestly, in all the hours of class at BYU, they never prepared me for moments like this!

Wishful Thinking

2009-02-26T17:00:00.000-06:00

4:00

Packing up my things to go home.

The school phone rings.

"Miss Peterson? You have a new student tomorrow."

Really? Ok? I'll come pick up the paperwork.

So, I'm not really leaving. Dang it. I never realized how much my teachers did, and I'm pretty sure I hardly ever thanked them.

Random Friday Musings

2009-02-20T15:26:00.001-06:00

1) Today is my student teacher's last day and I am trying not to think about the fact that Monday it's just me, back on stage. Teaching is much like being on stage. Especially with the little ones. Today we had a magic show to honor our student teacher. Her husband came and put on a real dazzler. I have never seen the kids eyes light up like that before. He's a hard act to follow. I said to some of the kids, "Monday it's back to boring old Miss Peterson." While I'm sure inside they frowned, they were quick to respond with, "You're not boring. We love you." This is why I teach 7 year olds.

2) Tonight I have to lip sync for my ward party. It wouldn't be so bad if it was a halfway normal song, but no it's Wierd Al's "White and Dirty". Yeah, I get to wear high-waters, white socks, pigtails, etc. This won't be the first (or the last) time I make a fool out of myself. At least they are serving dinner.

3) Can it be June already?

REALLY?

2009-02-18T15:30:00.000-06:00

That is the question I have asked myself multiple times today while here at school.

Did J really put his hand down the toilet in the boys bathroom to unclog it? When asked if he washed his hand he said, "The water was clean!"

While creating fairy tale characters the class decided that our character lived in Juvenile Detention. Sad they know what that is at 7 years old.

There was a 5 kid pile up, complete with running into desks, all simply trying to pick up a piece of garbage.

A discussion about how it's not appropriate to run around and try to kiss the girls.

I had to tell a student that "Shut the &(## up was not an appropriate way to ask someone to be quiet. He then told me, "My mom tells me that all the time." Ugh.

I was sitting at the back table. D came up to me and said, "S said you wanted me at the back table." I looked at S and she was laughing. I said, "I appreciate you listening, but next time S is not the teacher!"

That even after we discussed how they were acting more like kindergartners rather than 2nd graders, they continued with their antics.

Some days are harder than others. Yesterday was rough, today may have just been worse. It can't last for 3 days can it?

Valentines Day Recap

2009-02-17T10:40:00.001-06:00

(You probably already know that we struggle taking pictures, so between the self timer, the uncooperative dress, and my inability to crop out the background, this is as good as it gets folks. At least there is a handsome man in the picture!)

This weekend can be summed up in two words: FOOD and FUN, and quite possibly in that order! Friday night I baby-sat for Sean and Leslee's little girl Summer. We had fun, and again she fell asleep in my arms. There is nothing that compares to holding a sleeping little one. Then on Saturday I drove up to Ogden to spend the weekend with Taylor.

When I arrived there were a dozen beautiful yellow roses waiting for me. They were absolutely beautiful! We were so excited about our Valentines gifts for each other that we exchanged them right when I got there. I got Taylor two tickets to the Jazz vs. Kings game. We have talked about going to a Jazz game for a while I am excited to go together, though we may be cheering for different teams.

That night we got all guzzied up and went to dinner. We went at five thinking that we may beat the rush, but no, it was still a two hour wait. We went to one of our favorite places, the pet store. Random I know, but we like looking at the fish and reptiles, but I couldn't convince him to look at the mice and rats. We then drove around Ogden and looked at houses, another favorite thing to do. By that time we were starving and headed back to Ruby River. After tying ourselves over with peanuts, we finally sat down and enjoyed our delicious steaks. One of Tay's friends was our server and she hooked us up!

After that we just watched a movie and hung out. Sunday was filled with an amazing breakfast, (even though I smelled like bacon the rest of the day), church, dinner at Brianne and Court's with Taylor's family, and watching a movie on Kara's projector. They are all so nice to accommodate us!

I didn't have school Monday (Thank heavens for President's Day!). Taylor had practice so after that we made lunch, went on a drive up to SnowBasin, watched Rob and Big, made Elk steak and cheesy potatos, and then hit up the Nickelcade. It was such a fun weekend. Waking up this morning was hard...really hard.

2009-02-13T10:40:00.001-06:00

Valentines day is fast approaching and this year I'm actually excited about it. Not that I haven't been in past years. My mom was always very good about making each holiday special. I remember vividly waking up many mornings to a balloon, flowers, a new shirt, treats, etc. Since I have lived out of the house she always sends me holiday packages, which I'm always eager to get. Thanks mom!

So tomorrow is officially the "Day-O-Love" but today I get to celebrate it with 17 second graders. They are so cute about Valentines day. Many have come up to me and said, "I have surprise for you for Valentines day and its..." and the proceed to tell me what it is. I'm just glad that today is Friday. Hopefully the sugar high will wear off by Tuesday (We have Monday off!).

Struggle With The Camera

2009-02-11T08:25:00.000-06:00

As requested by Taylor, here are some pictures of our recent adventures. This night we ate at ACME Burger in SLC (one of the best burgers ever!) and then went to the Gateway Mall. We truly struggle with the hold out your arm and take a picture. Either I take it and he ducks, or he takes it and half my face is cut off. We decided to ask some nice looking people to take our picture, but I chickened out at the last moment. So, this is as good as it get folks. The top picture is us posing, and the bottom is us being normal!

Out of the Mouth of Babes

2009-02-10T12:30:00.000-06:00

So today my student teacher was doing a great graphing lesson complete with clickers so the kids could pick their answer and see a bar graph of the responses on the projector. Here are some excerpts from the lesson:

One of the questions was about what they wanted to be when they grew up. The choices were:

1) Doctor

2) Teacher

3) Astronaut

4) Truck Driver

One little boy looked at me and said, "I want to be a designer, but I'm going to pick truck driver because that is pretty close to a truck driver!"

Another question was "Do you have a Valentine?" My S.T. said, "Miss Peterson has a valentine this year!" One very funny child replied: "We know. Her valentine is her class!" Good, dodged that bullet and the many questions that could have ensued.

If you ever want to be highly entertained, come sit in room 122 for a few hours!

It's not what you think...

2009-02-09T12:34:00.000-06:00

I might be disowned from my family for this, but yes I do have this flag hanging in my classroom this very instant. It took me a long time to come to terms with this but, don't worry there is a good reason.

One of my students LOVES the University of Utah. To say that it has been ingrained in him by his ex-football playing father is putting it lightly. This year has been quite the rivalry, and I got a full earful after BYU lost to the U, and it was not from the father! Braydon turned 8 this weekend, and is having a U themed birthday party. When the U won the inaugural holy war, I told Braydon that I would hang the flag in the classroom on his birthday. Well, don't worry, he didn't forget as I might have hoped. This morning I begrudgingly hung the ugly red flag from the white board, and as I type I am staring at it, trying not to vomit. He made up for it by bringing us each a bag of M&M's for his treat.

I DO love my job!

2009-02-03T14:20:00.000-06:00

I am so thankful for my student teacher. The kids love her, she is on top of things, and we get along great. That said, I kinda miss my kids. Today is her first full day of teaching and already I am feeling bored. Not that I don't appreciate the time to get things done, plan for the rest of the year, and run errands here at school, I just miss the one-on-one connection with the kids. I do love sitting back and listening to their comments. I love watching them and their little mannerisms. I miss constantly hearing "Miss Peterson." In all honesty, I am just trying to prepare myself for 3 more weeks of this. I don't know if I'll know how to teach when she leaves! :)

A Park City Weekend

2009-02-01T12:32:00.000-06:00

This weekend I had the chance to go to Park City for fun. The past 6 months I have been going to Park City for meetings for school, so this weekend was fun to just go and hang out. Taylor and I left early, ate at Chipotle in Sugar House (one of Tay's favorite places), and then headed up the canyon to Park City. We shopped at the outlets, walked around Main Street, and got a apple pie carmel apple at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory.

When we got back, we went to the Weber State vs. Idaho State basketball game. I was pleasantly surprised that it was a good game. After the game we had planned to get Pita Pit and Cold Stone. After Pita Pit we tried calling 411 to find a Coldstone, but we had no luck. I wanted a banana shake and Tay felt like Baskin Robbins. He was so nice to let me get my shake and then we went to Baskin Robbins! We We then headed over to BriAnne and Court's (Tay's cousin and her husband) to play some serious Rock Band! It was such a fun (and exhausting) day. I need a nap!

Draper Temple Open House

2009-01-30T09:48:00.001-06:00

Last night I had an amazing opportunity. I, along with Jenni, Kels, and Grant, attended the Draper Temple Open House. Before temples are dedicated they are open to the public (members and non-members) to tour. I, not being endowed, have never been inside most parts of the temple, so tonight was special. I have to say that the temple is gorgeous. You can't tell in this picture, but it sits on the edge of the mountain overlooking the whole Salt Lake Valley. We went at night and the valley was lit up and breathtaking from the temple grounds.

We arrived at the church house where we were instructed to park. We then watched a 12 minute video outlining the importance of these holy edifices. I, within the first 2 minutes, was crying. The temple is so special and the anticipation of actually being able to go inside was overwhelming. We then hopped on a shuttle bus that took us up to the temple. We walked the tour throughout the building. I have never seen such beautiful rooms. I told Jenni that I loved the upholstery! I want to upholster my future home in all the fabrics in the temple! It was so modern and beautiful! After we walked through we went to another church building for refreshments and then caught our bus back to the car.

I can't wait until I can actually perform the sacred ordinances in the temple. Going last night strengthened my resolve to be married within those holy walls someday. I love to see the temple! I am so blessed I got to go!

The Baby Cow Sunday

2009-01-25T18:04:00.000-06:00

I must first say that I kind of live out in the country where there are lots of cows, horses, and sheep. I love sitting on the couch and listening to the cows "mooing" out in my backyard. Today Tracy and I were on our way to church and all of a sudden Tracy says, "What is the baby cow doing outside the fence?" I looked and sure enough the cutest white baby cow was outside his fence. I drove by very slowly and said, "We should go help it back in!" It was obviously very disoriented and kept trying to find a place to enter back into the pasture. I felt such a responsibility for this little calf!

A member of my bishopric owns land over by the cow pasture, and when we got to church I went and talked to him about this helpless cow. He didn't think it was his, but thought he knew who it belonged to and went to call them. I couldn't help but think of that baby cow through all three hours of church. It was not a baby lamb, but I was able to draw many parallels between that baby cow and the lambs of the fold. It was a personal reminder to me of our Heavenly Father's mercy. We can always come back to the fold.

When we drove back after church, there was no cow on the road. I assume that it got back with it's herd safely. I was very relieved. I don't know why this affected me so much but it did. I am glad that the little calf is back where it belongs and hopefully it learned to stay where it belongs.

Kids Say the Darnest Things

2009-01-20T12:01:00.000-06:00

So because I have a student teacher, I get to sit back and listen to all my students brilliant comments. Here are some from today:

We watched the Obama inauguration. There was a picture of the capitol building and I asked them, "What building is that? There is one in every state!" A handful promptly replied... "The temple!"

It's so funny how they parrot what they hear thier parents saying. If moms and dads only knew what their children were saying at school! We were talking about the inauguration and one little boy said, "I'm glad our new President is Obama. He won't make my family go back to Mexico. If John McCain was the President I would have to leave." He pretty much admitted that he's illegal. Gotta love it. 10 minutes after that my student teacher caught him stealing from me. Bless his heart.

Happiness

2009-01-20T10:34:00.001-06:00

Yes, I am posting during school because I have a fabulous student teacher. I have had to learn to give up some control, which as many of you know can be hard, especially when it comes to my 17 "children".

Lately I have been so happy. It's funny because it's not like I was super sad and depressed before, it's just that I have been blessed to feel this emotion and remember what it's like to be honestly happy. Maybe it's because I will be in San Diego in a few short days. Maybe it's because it's a new year and with it comes new experiences, new friends, and renewal. All i know is that I'm so thankful for being able to feel this way. In this world it seems like people are becoming increasingly depressed. I'm just thankful for my ability to be happy.

Every night I write 3 things I'm thankful for in my "Gratitude Journal". Last night I wrote five. I could have written more and more, but it was past my bedtime. I was just feeling very blessed. Hopefully this will continue.

Associate's Meeting Recap

2009-01-17T12:45:00.001-06:00

This Thursday and Friday I got to attend my Associates Conference again. This time we talked about nurturing pedagogy and how to reach every child. I got a chance to look back on some of the wonderful teachers I have had over the past years. We also got to watch the movie Tuesdays with Morrie. I finished this book before Christmas break and loved it. I was excited to see the movie and recommend both to everyone.

During the conference I had a chance to look at the kids in my class this year and really reflect on the year. Many of you know, this year has been a struggle. It's funny how some years are really easy and some years just aren't. The funny thing is that I am enjoying this year a lot. On Wednesday I had to give reading tests. One little boy struggled on the same test in the fall. Second graders are supposed to pass a level 18 in the Fall and he only passed a 12. Some days I wondered if I was making any progress with him. He tries so hard and wants to do so well. Well Wednesday I gave him his reading test. I was going to give him a level 16, simply hoping that he would pass. Something told me to give him a level 18....and he passed with flying colors! Granted they are supposed to pass a level 24 now, but that improvement made my whole week.

I never realized how attached to these kids I am. My principal attends these meetings with me and was telling a story about a little boy in my class who had gotten in trouble. He said to the principal, "Are you going to call my mom? Cause if you do she will hit me." I lost it. The tears started flowing. These kids deal with so much more than I did at their age. I only hope that in some small way I am making a difference.

Weekend Full of Mishaps

2009-01-11T20:41:00.000-06:00

I have always known that I'm am slightly clumsy, but this weekend reiterated that to me in a big way!

Let's begin with Thursday night. I had just gotten home from a date. It was 12:30am and I was exhausted. I have what my dad lovingly refers to as "thimble bladder". I had also had drank so much water at dinner that the drive home from Salt Lake was a long one. The minute I got home I headed straight to the bathroom. I put my purse on the counter (don't ask me why). Mid flush my purse fell over and out slipped my phone. Before I could realize what had happened it had completely flushed. I think I stared at the toilet bowl, mouth hanging wide open, for like 3 minutes. My first thought was, "I need to call a plumber" but then quickly realized that was impossible! I went to bed knowing there was not much else I could do. I got a new phone the next day, and thank heavens the toilet has not clogged!

Saturday Jenni and I thought it was time to bust out my sewing machine I got for Christmas. I had gotten fabric to make throw pillows way back in September, and never got around to it. We got out the machine, and after a rough start we got it going. I sewed two sides of my pillow when we started to have problems. I noticed that there was a brown spot on the fabric. "Look Jenni, the fabric is bleeding." After further inspection it was I that was bleeding, and there was blood all over the sewing machine. We also realized the needle was bent. We both had to be places by 5:30, and only had a half hour to track down another needle. We hopped in the car, tried a couple of places, but found none. We were quite frustrated. Don't worry, we found some in a secret compartment of my machine, and the sewing projects were completed today. It's the beginning of a great new hobby!

Family Ski Trip

2009-01-04T12:41:00.001-06:00

Thursday I drove down to Utah with my family for our ski day at Brighton. I was so excited because I only went once last year, and I was also excited because I haven't been skiing with my dad in years! We woke up really early on Friday so we could be at the resort when the lifts started. We even got a front row parking spot! Mom was nervous to go, but she did great. Grant impressed us with his crazy skills, and gave my dad a run for his money. My dad ran into an old friend and got to ski some runs with him. Robbie realized that he has a growing addiction to skiing. Kels was nice stay with me on a few runs. While my brother and sister may be a little more daring than I am, we had so much fun! Lots of pictures below!

New Years 2008

2009-01-04T12:32:00.000-06:00

A few days before New Years I started thinking about what I was going to do for the big night. I have never really been into all the festivities that occur on that night, but I didn't want to sit around the house either. Here is what I did:

Heather and I went out to eat at ZenBento in Eagle. I had been there a few days earlier with my good friend Matt, and I wanted to take

Heath. After that we went and got pedicures. It was long overdue, and so wonderful. It was also nice to finally catch up with my best friend.

Me, Susan, and Heather

I went over to Heather and Josh's at about 7 and we met up with Seth and Susan. We went to dinner at Panda (lots of Asian food that day!) and then hung out at the Davis' for awhile.

Seth and Josh (Some things never change!)

Then I went home and hung out with Mom and Dad for a bit and waited for Matt to come over. Matt and I went to the party put on by the institute (which I swore I wasn't going to go to this year, but Matt convinced me). We go there at like 11:40, saw old friends, and then came home at about 12:30. It was just the kind of New Years I like. Happy 2009!!!

Christmas Craziness

2008-12-28T21:57:00.000-06:00

I have hesitated to post anything for days now (and I'm not sure why!) Christmas was wonderful as usual but this year some things were just off. First off, This is the first Christmas in 16 years that we haven't spent with the Bateman family. It was kind of wierd doing our traditions without them. Plus, Kels and Grant were in Colorado, so we have been a small family this past week. Now Robbie is out of town and it seems really quiet! This post is mainly for K and G. We missed you, but don't worry we had fun nonetheless.

I loved everything I got for Christmas! I love my new sewing machine and can't wait to get home to it and start crafting! I also have bought 4 pairs of shoes this Christmas....that's what you do when you don't have a husband. Spend your hard earned dollars on cute new clothes! :)

Dylan and Blakey getting ready to "pretzel". It's a verb in our family. This year they didn't put the sprinkle bottles in thier mouths!

And we kept the tradition of the plastic bag aprons.

This year's sponsors: Winco!

The impossible puzzle of 2008. I left my dad alone today and came back an hour later...he had only gotten two new pieces in. (Not my idea of fun!)

Aunt "Bof" and the babies.

We did a lot of relaxing too. Don't mind this picture of me. Not the most flattering.

VIDEOS:

This one is of Blake and Dylan dancing to my horrible rendition of Macho Man. If you watch closely you can catch some of my moms's amazing moves too. (Sorry it's sideways!)

The next one is Blake wishing everyone a Merry Christmas, and Dylan trying to tell a joke. It's always fun with 4 year olds!

Where are you Christmas?

2008-12-16T15:43:00.001-06:00

In the words of Faith Hill... "Where are you Christmas?" (well at least where are you December 19th?) My patience is wearing thin and little seven and eight year olds are getting restless. Yes I actually said today during reading: "Don't lick the bottom of your shoe!" WHERE ARE YOU CHRISTMAS????

A Single Girl's Christmas Letter

2008-12-15T22:35:00.000-06:00

So, it's Christmas time which means only one thing...that's right, getting random cards from friends and family members you hardly speak to, with pictures and a 3 page front and back letter detailing every minute aspect of their lives. You never get them from us single people because lets be honest 1) single people aren't real people (that's why I go to church at 1pm!) 2) We have neither children or spouses to brag about, and bragging about yourself is not really socially acceptable. So here's my Christmas Blog letter. If you don't care about the details of my seemingly (to some) boring single life, you are free to leave. (And yes, that's my Christmas card picture!)

January:

-This was the start to the new year and I couldn't have been more excited! I was ready to set some new goals. I read Alma 29 and really pondered on being content with the things that are given to me.

-This month was also the sad/happy passing of President Gordon B. Hinckley. As most would agree, he was the prophet of my generation, and I loved and admired this man more than words could express. He led and loved with every fiber of his being. He emulated Christ like love and was truly a giant among men. He will be loved and missed, but his lessons and legacy will live on.

February:

-This is the month that my clumsiness finally caught up to me. For a funny story go here: KLUTZ. As a result, I had to wear a walking boot for like 4 weeks. Ok, it was supposed to be like 4 weeks, but I being impatient only wore it for about 3. You try hobbling after 2nd graders in that thing!

-It was freezing cold in Utah, and my roommate Shannon and I decided to move to Arizona. I started planning, looking into getting my certification in AZ, and planning a trip down there.

March:

-I needed a little culture in my life so my roomates Brooke and Shannon and I headed down to the Hare Krishna Festival of Colors in Spanish Fork. I'm still not very cultured, because I still don't know why they celebrate this, but the jist of it is that you throw colored chalk at each other. Random. Let's just say I about choked to death, and realized that truly must be the most horrible way to die. I had chalk EVERYWHERE! Pretty sure I was sneezing chalk for about a week after that!

April:

-I went to Arizona for some much needed R&R and some job interviews. I stayed at a nice golf resort all by myself, went shopping and laid by the pool. It was 80 degrees at 8am, and I was in heaven! I got offered three jobs, and had a week to decide. I came home and realized for some reason, the move just didn't feel right. I had to call them back and decline the job offer. When I told my principal here that I was staying, he was just a little excited. :) And to tell you the truth, it just felt right.

May:

-I survived another school year. Actually this group of kids were some of my favorites. I loved having a little boy with down syndrome in my class and enjoyed watching the students interact with him. I bawled like a baby the last day of school, as did some of my kids. When Seth came up and gave me a big hug and said "I love you Peterson", I just couldn't hold back the tears any longer. It was hard to say goodbye to them, but I promised them we could have a reunion lunch!

-I played on a ward intramural softball team and somehow I was the pitcher. I did alright, and we made it pretty far in the tournament. I got beaned in the calf one game by a line drive, and I couldn't walk for like 2 days. My calf was rock hard immediately after I got hit. I guess it was in shock. It was the prettiest bruise I have ever had. I also played on an intramural kickball team... which was fun until the boys got WAY too intense about it. (Seriously? Practice kickball at 9am on a Saturday?)

June:

-I taught Summer School with my good friend Leslee. It made it bearable to be there with a friend. I vowed that it would be my last year teaching Summer School. We will see. The pay doesn't get much better for only working 3 hours a day! I also had to move classrooms, which I tried to complete before going home for my sister's wedding. I had to move to a smaller classroom, which made fitting all my stuff very interesting!

-I presented at our district's Literacy Conference. I taught a 3 hour class to teachers that were very much my senior. I have never felt so inadequate in all my life. I have also never prayed harder than the night before. It went well, they asked me to do it again next year (which I took as a good sign), and realized that it wasn't as scary as I had anticipated. I kinda enjoyed it.

July:

-My childhood best friend got married to another childhood best friend. It was a beautiful wedding and I was so lucky to be a part of it. Heath and I have shared some great times over the years (Joshy too!) and so it was fun to join in on their special day.

-My birthday!!! I turned 23 this year, and somedays I feel like I'm 19 and others I feel like I'm 30. Can't I just feel my age?

-My roomates (yes I had 8 roommates over the summer!) and I discovered the Snackster, and proceeded to make 80% of our meals in this little culinary wonder. Then one day it exploded. Literally. We got a new one, but it wasn't the same as the old one that we never cleaned...it was a rule.

August:

-Kels and Grant got married. I put my new IMOVIE skills to use and made their wedding video. Nothing professional, but it got the job done!

-Moved into my new place in Lehi and fell absolutely in love with it. Most people thought I would hate living here, but I have loved it. Cows in the backyard, trains at 5:30am waking me up (right on schedule), and two great roommates. What could be better?

September:

-I got selected as an Alpine School District Associate. Pretty much we go every other month to the Canyons Resort in Park City for two days of meetings. I stay in $1,000 a night room all by myself. We get all meals for free, and I get to watch The Office and Grey's Anatomy from the comfort of my in room hot-tub. It's pretty much the best thing ever!

-I got to go to St. George with some girlfriends. We went hiking and shopping, and I got to hang out with Nana and Papa for a while. They took me to a movie, out to eat and to Golden Spoon. It was such a fun weekend!

October:

-Kels, Grant, some friends, and I went to Snowbird for Conference weekend. We stayed at my Grandparents condo. When we woke up Sunday morning it was SNOWING!

-Kacey and Brandon got married and I got to enjoy their special day. Jenna and Swavy Pants got married too! Congrats to both!

-High School Musical III premiered and I went to the midnight showing with K and G and some of their friends. It was a rough day at work the next day, but it was fun to see my sister on the big screen!

November:

-I had a cyst drained on my toe, only to have it come back the next day! I also had a cortizone shot in my big toe, only to have it wear off a few days later. Not fun!

-I went home for Thanksgiving and had a glorious time hanging out with family. Kels and Grant and I drove home together, and we had some good chats and some good laughs.

December:

-I am trying to survive the last few days of school before I get to GO HOME AGAIN!

This has been a wonderful year. I hope I didn't loose you somewhere along this disaster of a "Christmas letter". May we all have a wonderful holiday. I am so thankful for this season, and my elder brother Jesus Christ and his redeeming presence in my life. May we constantly remember his birth, life, and sacrifice in our behalf. Merry Christmas!

Snowed Inn

2008-12-09T20:57:00.000-06:00

To continue the Birthday festivities, Saturday Katie, Jenni and I headed up to Park City. We had been anticipating this trip for quite a while!

Snowed Inn is a lodge off the Payday lift at the Park City resort. You take a horse drawn sleigh ride up to the restaurant. We knew it was going to be cold so we bundled up and luckily there were blankets on the sleigh. We were greeted at the Inn by cowboys, hot cider, and delicious chili. I chose the prime rib, and it was amazing. There was even a live entertainer who looked and sounded like Jack Johnson. We talked abo

ut how fun it was to go just the girls.

I highly recommend making this a night out! It was beautiful weather, delicious food, and good friends. Despite the couple celebrating their "6th month dating anniversary" and deciding to display it by constantly making out, it was a fabulous night!

It's Official!

2008-12-08T19:02:00.000-06:00

Yes, the Christmas season is officially here because of this beauty!

Jump On It

2008-12-07T21:18:00.000-06:00

Jenni's birthday is today and we have been partying all weekend long! First off, Happy Birthday Jenni! I have had so much fun living with you these past few months! I'm glad that there is someone who understands the daily chaos that school is, and someone who has such an adventurous spirit. Here's to another great year of your life!

The first thing we did to celebrate was to go to Jump On It on Friday night. Now you may think that a warehouse filled with trampolines is geared towards younger children, but no, we had so much fun jumping around! We had fun with friends and family and Brandt and Mike even came. It's always such a treat to see them. We had fun playing "jumping games" and enjoyed watching Brandt flip.

After we jumped we all came back to our house

for ice cream cake that Karla made. It was DELICIOUS! Brandt, Mike and I reminisced about freshman year and our trip to St. George. They even made me get out the scrapbooks.

Yes, I am sore. For some reason after all that jumping I got up at 7am on Saturday to go to Spin Class. I guess it's a sign that I'm getting older, but that's not stopping us from having fun!

A Backlog of Posts

2008-12-07T13:13:00.000-06:00

So, it would seem that I have been pretty up to date with my posting, but you would be wrong. Be watching for numerous posts today. I wish I could post all at once but this dang 1:00pm church is not my favorite. To start us off, here are some random November happenings:

Computer Party

One night Jenni and I had a computer party. We had four computers for the two of us. We were looking up movies to go see and other random things. We thought it was pretty funny. Don't worry, it only took us like 5 tries to get this picture!

Second Grade Thanksgiving Feast

One reason I love teaching little kids is because you can get them excited about the little things. We put all their desks in the hallways, made pilgrim and Indian hats, made woven place mats (that were harder than I anticipated!) and ate school lunch all together. Despite how hard it is to watch 7 and 8 year olds eat (disgusting!), They loved it and it is becoming a favorite tradition.

Don't worry...more to come!

Turkey Day

2008-12-02T18:55:00.000-06:00

This year I was very excited because my family was going to Sun Valley for Thanksgiving to go skiing. We went a few years ago, and it was so much fun, and one of the best catered dinners ever! We ditched that plan when we learned that there was no snow and the ski resort wasn't going to open, and decided to head home! I was kind of excited to go home though too!

Kels and Grant and I drove home on Wednesday and spent the weekend playing, playing, and playing! I let Kels and Grant take all the pictures, so until I get them from them, I will have to steal their montage and put it up here. Here's a recap of some of the favorite memories:

Playing with the babies and dancing around in our pajamas.
Running errands with Dad looking for good ski stuff deals
Eating a Souper Salad and Mongolian Barbeque
Me leaving the neck in the turkey. "Dad this is the smallest stuffing opening I have ever seen!"
Playing a rousing game of Apples to Apples. A crawl space? Seriously mom!
Getting 7-11 Hot Chocolate. And converting others to the best hot chocolate ever!
Doubling with Kels and Grant to the Botanical Garden's "Garden Aglow". Over 250,00 lights, a cute boy, and a night out. It was fabulous!
Watching lots of movies! Pippi Longstocking, School of Rock, Leatherheads
Buying the old Mario Brothers 3 and playing it (and not getting past the 2nd World!)
Eating a delicious Thanksgiving meal, complete with rolls made by Mama and Grant.

I'm excited to go back in a few weeks for more fun and rest. There's nothing like going home!

Jean Struggle

2008-12-02T18:48:00.000-06:00

So, I have had some random thoughts concerning jeans lately. Here they go:

1. I have a favorite pair of jeans, but they got worn out, got a hole and I figured I should get a new pair. I wanted the same ones, but the price had gone WAY up since the last time I bought them, so I bought a pair of 7 For All Mankind. Ranging from $150 to $220, I found a steal at DownEast for $60. They fit beautifully, until the next day. The next day they were falling off, and I could literally pull them off still buttoned and zipped. I had what I like to refer to as "long crotch, saggy bottom" syndrome. I thought washing them would help. NOPE! I love the jeans, but an hour after I wear them they are literally falling off! (and no I have not lost weight, trust me!)

2. I was fighting with the jeans mentioned above while I was home for Thanksgiving, so I threw on my old favorite pair. They fit beautifully...until about an hour later I was having the SAME PROBLEM! This had never happened with this pair of jeans before! What a curse! I hate being in between sizes! Why can't I be normal?

Anybody have a favorite brand and style that seems to hold their fit?

Thanksgiving Thoughts

2008-11-23T22:16:00.000-06:00

As Thanksgiving day approaches, I would like list a few of the things that truly make me happy to be in this beautiful world, in no particular order:

1) Family: people who are there for you no matter what. Share my joys, cry with me, and support me no matter what crazy idea I may come up with. They love me silly, they love me sad, they love me forever and for always.

2) The Gospel: The knowledge that I am a Child of God and that I have an elder brother who died for me anchors me every day. The Plan of Happiness and of eternal families makes me hopeful in an ever increasingly doom ridden world. How blessed I am to know what I know and to be able to worship how I choose.

3) Work: Although this year has been harder than the past two, I still love my job and my students. My daily interactions with them teach me patience, love, and the innocence of childhood. Many have experienced things I can only imagine (and try not to), but their insatiable hunger for knowledge is inspiring. Oh, to be young again. I am also luck to work where I work and with the people I work with.

4) My Health: Despite a few weird ailments this year, I have been fairly healthy. I can run, sing, dance, walk, etc. I can breathe and see, and touch and smell. Let's hope for a dose of the same in 2009.

5) Friends: Good friends are the fabric of life. I have been blessed with great friends, and have made many new friends over the last year. I can be myself around my friends, and yes, they still love me!

6) Trials and Disappointments: What? Did I really just say that? Although they test me at times, the lessons learned are always worth the trial. It's just trying to remember the lesson the next time is what is difficult at times. This past year has been pretty trial free (compared to others), but that's not to say that it hasn't had it's ups and downs.

7) Emotions: This might be a wild card, but as of recently I have realized what a blessing being able to feel emotion is. The highs and lows, sadness, utter delight, the giddiness of anticipation, simply feeling silly, Heavenly Father sure knew what he was doing and I'm so thankful for it.

8) This holiday Season: Hard to believe that Christmas is only 3.5 weeks away. I have been listening to Christmas music since Halloween! I am thankful for this time of year and the opportunity I have to reflect, set goals, and to remember the real reason for the season!

Hope this Thanksgiving finds you all healthy, happy, and homeward bound. Oh, and with a full belly!

Letters to Teacher

2008-11-19T16:17:00.000-06:00

We have started our letter writing unit, just in time to write letters to Santa. This week they have been able to write letters to whoever they choose. Most of them have written to me which is always fun. This is why I love teaching the "little kids". Here are some of my favorite things they had to say and ask in their letters.

"Do you have friends?"
I love you teaching me!
I have a lot of friends in this school and you are my best friend!
When are we going to get ready for the Thanksgiving feast?
Is your family rich?
You look pretty in your high heels.
You are good at math.
You are the best at teaching.
I love my teacher.
I like all of your clothes.
You are good at handwriting.
I want to be a teacher just like you when I grow up.
I like your hair. Do you paint it?
Thanks for giving us free time.
You read us chapter books that I love.

Who can't help but melt when these are the love notes you get? The days may be hard, but these little gems make it all worth it!

Despite Everything

2008-11-18T21:45:00.000-06:00

I recently found out about some good going on in the world. It seems as though everything is taking a turn for the worse these days, but this week my faith in humanity has been restored as I learned about a special family receiving a home from Habitat for Humanity.

Here is the link to the story.

I have personally taught two of the Webb children, and love them to death. They are some of the most well behaved, polite, and happy children. I had no idea that their family had been through so many hardships. Tia and Lee are always volunteering their time at the school, and Tia was my room mom my first year and was absolutely a dream. She did the cutest things with my class and for me. I cannot think of a more deserving family for this wonderful blessing. It warms my heart to know that there is still good in the world, and I am blessed for watching it unfold for this inspiring family!

Oh Baby!

2008-11-15T12:53:00.000-06:00

Being a single gal, it isn't very often that I get to spend time with babies. I love babies. I have been called a baby hog, because whenever there is a baby around I seem to steal it away from everyone else in the room. My aunt Ronna is usually my competition! Last night I got to babysit for my friends Sean and Leslee's little girl Summer. She is such a doll and we had so much fun. She even fell asleep in my arms for a little bit, which was something I haven't had happen in a long time. Call me baby crazy, but I love spending time with little ones! Thanks Leslee and Sean for letting me hang out with little Summy!

A Medical Musing

2008-11-10T21:26:00.000-06:00

Disclaimer: I am not a hypochondriac! I don't try to find things wrong with me, lately they have just seemed to bless my life.

Two weeks ago I found this bump on my right foot in between my third and fourth toe. I watched it get bigger and bigger, and start to hurt as I wore shoes. About a week ago my big toe on my left foot started to hurt when I put pressure on it. It was nothing I couldn't handle, but it sure was annoying! So, I made an appointment with the podiatrist. Side note: I have ridiculously screwed up feet. I used to get yelled at at dance all the time for "not pointing my foot". My parents took me to the podiatrist in high school and he told us the reason I couldn't point my foot is because the bones on the top of my feet are FUSED TOGETHER!! So, that's when I knew dance was not going to be on the long term horizon. They said if I would have come in when I was little they would have broken my feet to fix it. Anyhow...

So, Dr. told me it was a cyst on my right foot, numbed me up, stuck a needle in me and drained the fluid. He didn't quite know what was wrong on my big left toe, but gave me a shot of cortisone and told me to see how it felt in a few days. I was nervous about driving home with two numb feet, but I made it! Now I just have to wrap my right foot, and my left foot has a gorgeous bruise (but bruising is nothing new for me!) Hopefully this is the end of my medical abnormalities for the year...we only have like a month and a half to go!

A few thoughts...

2008-11-07T23:21:00.000-06:00

This past Thursday and Friday I had the opportunity to go back up to Park City for session 2 of 5 of the Alpine Associates. This time we talked about Equal Access to Knowledge. I just had a few thoughts as I reflected:

1. I LOVE where I work at. It is by far the most challenging thing I have EVER done. I get frustrated and I sometimes wonder why I went into education. But then I see a kid smile, I watch it finally click, I hear a kid say, "Miss Peterson, do I have to go home? Can I stay here with you?", or I find a note scribbled on a home work that says "I love Miss Peterson." It's these moments that make it all worth it.

2. I LOVE where I work at. When other teachers hear that I work at Geneva, the response I ALWAYS get is, "Oh, I'm so sorry. How do you deal with all those ESL kids?" I get so disappointed that these other teachers don't see how wonderful it is to work at a Title-1 school. I love the diversity I encounter on a daily basis. Yes, I have been yelled at (twice now!) for not speaking Spanish, but in the long run that doesn't matter. What matters is that even though these kids may not speak perfect English, they bring to the table a willingness to learn and an insatiable hunger to be taught. Stereotypes will always be around, and before I taught here I had a ton. Before this week I still had lots of stereotypes. These past two days has really caused me to reflect on what I believe and how what I believe impacts my teaching.

Here are some thoughts not related to my conference:

3. I have been reading Tuesday's With Morrie by Mitch Albom. My friend Becca let me borrow it, and she has marked it all up. This is good for me because Becca has highlighted all the "ah-ha" moments. Here are a few of my favorite lines from the book.

"So many people walk around with a meaningless life. They seem half-asleep, even when they are doing things they think are important. This is because they are chasing the wrong things. The way to get meaning into your life is to devote yourself to loving others..." pg. 43
"We all need teachers in our lives" pg. 65
"Most of us walk around as if we were sleepwalking. We don't experience the world fully because we are half asleep, doing things we automatically think we have to." pg. 83

It has given me a good chance to reflect on my life. I love my life and where I am at right now, but worry that I am doing good things, but there are better things. This talk is amazing: Good, Better, Best. I am still not finished with the book, although it is a good quick read. I recommend it to all. A good reflection on life and living.

2008-11-03T22:02:00.000-06:00

So I saw this on my friends blog and wanted to see just how many of these things I have done. I know I still have a lot of living to do, so don't judge me by how many I HAVE NOT done! (Since most of them are in Europe...hint hint Mom and Dad!

Things I have done are highlighted.

1. Started your own blog

2. Slept under the stars

3. Played in a band

4. Visited Hawaii

5. Watched a meteor shower

6. Given more than you can afford

7. Been to Disneyland (many, many times!)

8. Climbed a mountain

9. Held a praying mantis

10. Sang a solo

11. Bungee jumped

12. Visited Paris

13. Watched a lightning storm at sea

14. Taught yourself an art from scratch

15. Adopted a child

16. Had food poisoning

17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty

18. Grown your own vegetables

19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France

20. Slept on an overnight train

21. Had a pillow fight

22. Hitch hiked

23. Taken a sick day when you are not ill (we refer to them as "mental health days)

24. Built a snow fort

25. Held a lamb

26. Gone skinny dipping (hey, my parents have a pool in the backyard!)

27. Run a marathon

28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice

29. Seen a total eclipse

30. Watched a sunrise or sunset

31. Hit a home run

32. Been on a cruise

33. Seen Niagara Falls in person

34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors

35. Seen an Amish community

36. Taught yourself a new language

37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied

38. Seen the leaning Tower of Pisa in person

39. Gone rock climbing

40. Seen Michaelangelo's David

41. Sang Karaoke ("Total Eclipse of the Heart")

42. Seen Old Faithful in person

43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant

44. Visited Africa

45. Walked on a beach by moonlight (Good ole' Cabo!)

46. Been transported by ambulance (Boogey boarding...in California!)

47. Had your portrait painted

48. Gone deep sea fishing

49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person

50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris

51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling (Grand Cayman Island with Stingrays!)

52. Kissed in the rain

53. Played in the mud

54. Gone to a drive in theater

55. Been in a movie

56. visited the Great Wall of China

57. Taken a martial arts class

58. Started a business

59. Visited Russia

60. Served at a soup kitchen

61. Sold Girl Scout cookies

62. gone Whale watching

63. Got flowers for no reason

64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma (many times!)

65. Gone sky diving

66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp

67. Bounced a check

68. Flown in a helicopter

69. Saved a favorite childhood toy

70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial

71. Eaten Caviar (In Grand Cayman. Not my favorite thing!)

72. Pieced a quilt

73. Stood in Times Square

74. Toured the Everglades

75. Been fired from a job

76. Seen the Changing of the Guard in London

77. Broken a bone

78. Been on a speeding motorcycle

79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person

80. Published a book

81. Visited the Vatican

82. Bought a brand new car

83. Walked in Jerusalem

84. Had your picture in the newspaper (I was like 9 and I was measuring a tree.)

85. Swam in the ocean

86. Visited the White House

87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating (How you could I not living w/my dad?)

88. Had Chickenpox (Had to go to the hospital because of them! :)

89. Saved someone's life

90. Sat on a jury

91. Met someone famous (literally ran right into Larry King!)

92. Joined a book club

93. Lost a loved one

94. Had a baby

95. Seen the Alamo in person

96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake

97. Been involved in a law suit

98. Owned a cell phone

99. Been stung by a bee (6th grade P.E. running the stupid mile!)

Even More Halloween

2008-11-02T10:20:00.000-06:00

On Friday I met Megs and Beni for dinner at the always delicious Pizza Factory for dinner. We decided to dress up because after dinner we headed up to Brad's cabin in Kamas. I pulled out my dress up box (yes, I am 23 and I have a dress up box!) and searched through my costumes from the past 6 or so years. I decided to re-use my flapper costume from a Murder Mystery Dinner we did way back when.

When we got to Brad's cabin we had treats, played games, had a Mario Cart tournament. Needless to say I didn't make it very far in the brackets! (Although I did beat Robbie the first game we ever played on the Wii...and I won't let him live it down!) Brad's cabin is huge and gets very dark, so it is always customary to play ghost in the graveyard. There was about 20 of us, so that made it very interesting. Lets just say I got a stool leg in the throat! We stayed up until about 3, and then I was exhausted and hit the sack.

We woke up the next morning and made pumpkin pancakes, waffles, fruit, bacon, eggs, etc. for a full spread breakfast! I can't remember the last time I took more than 5 minutes for breakfast, so it was great!

Overall, it was a great Halloween and I am excited that the official holiday season has begun!

Halloween at School

2008-10-31T18:06:00.000-05:00

The finished product! Complete with a KFC bucket and ants!

So, every year I prepare myself for Halloween. This whole week it has been interesting with the kiddos. Monday was pretty normal, but then every day the noise level seemed to rise at recess and lunch. I like to think kids are weather barometers and holiday meters. Just be around kids for a while and you can always tell when a) the weather is changing and b) there is a holiday.

These are all the 2nd Grade Teachers. We were quite the mix. A BYU fanatic, a picnic table, princess Leah (sp?), a stoplight, and a hula dancer!

I must admit my picnic table was a hit, even though it was hard to manurer and I'm sure I unknowingly took out a few kids during the parade. It was a static disaster, and by the end of the day my hair looked like I stuck my finger in a socket! This version went over way better than when I was in 5th or 6th grade when everything fell off before the 3rd house. Now the only trick is where I am going to store this monstrosity.

They made me sit in the front cause I took up too much room!

Tonight it's a party and overnight at B-Rad's (Brad's) cabin! I'm digging up my old flapper costume from like 4 or 5 years ago!

Pumpkin Cupcake Patch

2008-10-26T11:49:00.001-05:00

I love Halloween. I love everything about it: costumes, decorations, haunted houses, corn mazes, pumpkin carving, pumpkin cookies, etc. Hence, I decided to make the cutest pumpkin cupcakes ever. I bought this adorable cupcake book at my school's book fair thinking that they wouldn't be that hard to make (I must have been thinking highly of my culinary skills that day!).

I started Friday by baking 48 cupcakes. It took a lot longer than I thought so I watched Made of Honor (oh..McDreamy!) while each batch took 20 minutes to bake. Then on Saturday, after getting the needed supplies, I started frosting and decorating. Don't worry, it only took me like 2 hours! Ugh! I must say although they didn't turn out as perfect as the ones in the book, I am pretty happy with how they did turn out! I'm excited to tackle the "Corn on the Cob" cupcakes, and the "Garden patch cupcakes", and the "bucket of popcorn" cupcakes. Now, who wants some cupcakes? (I have TONS left over!)

Ode To High School Musical...and Kelsey

2008-10-19T21:33:00.001-05:00

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Good Friends

2008-10-19T18:58:00.000-05:00

I just had a thought this weekend:

These past few weeks I have been blessed to catch up with numerous old friends. I have gotten to see people who hold special places in my heart. On each occasion I was amazed by how easy it is to simply pick up where we left off. No pleasantries, no beating around the bush. How lucky I am to have such wonderful friends who truly care about me and who love me no matter what. I have often lamented about what a horrible friend I am because I tend to loose touch with friends, not on purpose but simply because life gets busy and I don't want to impose on people's lives. I realized these past few weeks how important friends are, not just friends but good friends. Thanks to all of you have put up with me and my lack of follow through when it comes to friendships. I promise I will be better! What a tender mercy the Lord puts in our lives....friends.

Fall Break

2008-10-19T18:46:00.000-05:00

Blake and Dylan (the "babies") trying on mine and Rob's shoes.

Hallelujah! This week I only had to work for 3 days, and then it was FALL BREAK! Now, technically this break is for teachers to attend the Utah Educational Association conference, but lets be honest, I don't know ONE TEACHER that does! I did my first year, and found it to be simply just a bunch of text book companies trying to sell me on the latest edition.

This year I decided it would be a good chance to head up to Idaho for a few days. I was excited because I hadn't been home since Kelsey's wedding. I woke up VERY early on Thursday morning to make it home in time to eat lunch with Bryce at school. Yes, even on my day off, I can't get away from school. I brought him McDonalds, played on the playground with him, and then hung out in Tracy's (my aunt) classroom for awhile. My brother came, (he volunteers there on Thursdays) and it was good to see him. After I was done at school I headed home just in time for my massage. My mom scheduled a massage with this lady in my ward and it was just what I needed after a long drive!

Friday I picked up Blake and Dylan from Daycare and we went to get frozen yogurt and to Robbie's hockey game. I was ELATED because I found a frozen yogurt place in Boise that actually has the kind of yogurt I like. The "babies" liked it too, and told me next time they would get Fruit Loops on theirs.

The rest of the weekend was spent shopping, hanging out, going to hockey and soccer games, and seeing good friends. I got to see Heather and Josh for a little bit which is always fun. Josh did a great job in his championship soccer game! Congrats Josh! We even went to Red Robin for dinner!

I was sad my dad was on a week long hunting excursion while I was home, but so very proud of him for getting an elk! I will see him in two weeks for the BYU game! Now it's back to the daily grind. The next getaway: Sun Valley for Thanksgiving (pray for snow!)

Kacey and Brandon

2008-10-14T18:41:00.000-05:00

I used to live at this quaint yellow house made with yellow bricks. Within it's walls I met wonderful friends. One of my best friends (made through the house) got married this past weekend. Kacey and Brandon are such a cute couple, and have truly been through a lot to get to this point. The first time they dated, I was out of town and missed the whole thing! I was out of town when she got engaged too, so I felt it absolutely necessary to be there when they got married. I couldn't miss the most important part!

Kacey was a beautiful bride, as we all knew she would be. Brandon looked dashing. The weather even decided to hold out the snow until that evening as the reception was ending. One of the best parts of the wedding weekend was the fact that Shannon came up from Arizona to stay with me. It was so good to see her and I laughed harder than I have in a long time. It's nice to just be able to pick up right where we left off. Hopefully I can get down there to visit her soon! Congrats to Kacey and Brandon!

Jenna and Swavek also got married this weekend, and unfortunately I wasn't able to make it up to Washington, but I hear it was beautiful! Congrats to Jenna and Swavek too! I can't wait to see more of the pictures!

Snowing at Snowbird

2008-10-11T11:11:00.000-05:00

Kels and I at Snowbird

Last weekend I had yet another getaway! I had been anticipating Conference weekend for a long time. It's just so nice to take a break from life and be inspired. It was just the boost that I needed. Not only was conference amazing, but the fact that I got to spend part of it up at Snowbird with friends and family made it all the more enjoyable. The lively group consisted of Kels and Grant (The Tanners!), John, Jenni, Tracy and Kyle.

Saturday afternoon we checked into the condo, had dinner watched a movie and sang Karaoke. We went to bed late and woke up early the next morning. I was so excited when we woke up to SNOW. Yes, it was snowing! I was partly excited because it was only in the mountains, and not down in the valley...yet. We tried to wake up, which after a very late night for me, was difficult. I was in charge of Crepes and Kels and Grant were in charge of waffles. I may have made WAY too much crepe batter (and got made fun of for it), but they were delicious! After the first session, we packed up and headed on our way.

I had tickets to the 2nd session so Kels, Grant and John and I headed down to the conference center. It was great to be there. I have been to conference before and will likely go again, but there was just something about being in the conference center that made me listen a little better, made me take notes a little better, and simply feel better. Maybe it's because during the first session I was cleaning and making breakfast. It was a great weekend and I can't wait to do it again in 6 months!

Me, John, Kels and Grant before we left Snowbird

Rough Day

2008-10-08T16:19:00.001-05:00

I don't do well with little boys laughing in my face as I try to tell them that it's not appropriate. I have absolutely had it today. I know I know, I chose my profession. Don't get me wrong, I love what I do (most days). This year's class is just going to test my patience to the umpteenth degree! I guess this is Heavenly Father teaching me some sort of lesson...hmmm. (Sorry about the whining).

St. George Getaway

2008-09-29T22:03:00.000-05:00

Yes, it's true: two getaways in one weekend! I am one lucky girl! Some of my friends were headed down to St. George and they asked me to go along. They were going to see Les Miserables (sp?) at Tuahcan (sp?) so I thought instead of going to the play I would go hang out with my dad's parents. About an hour after I got ho

me from Park City, Jenni and I left to meet our friends for the drive. We stayed at Stacy's parent's house in Hurricane, just a short 15 minutes from St. George.

When we got there on Friday night we just hung out and chatted with her parents. Somehow Jenni and I were the lucky two that got to sleep on the mattress with memory foam. It was another luxurious two nights.

Saturday morning we got up and Stacy's parents had fixed us a yummy breakfast! We then got ready and headed out to the Lytle Nature Preserve. Melissa spent many Summers here as a child and we decided to go visit in honor of her dad. The drive to the preserve was LONG and most of it was on a dirt road, so afterward my car needed a little washing (but I thought it made me look very rugged!) When we got there the care taker met us at the gate with his 12 gage shotgun. The ranch is not open to the public, and he wasn't expecting us. After Melissa explained who we were and what we wanted, he was very friendly, but still kept his 12 gauge near him. We ate pomegranates off the trees, went on a little hike (ok, it wasn't quite the "small scramble up a mountain" as some described it, but it was still a good hike!), and then we took off. Just as we pulled off the dirt road I ran out of window washer fluid, which made the drive back very difficult!

Jenni and I at Lytle Ranch

After we got home, had some lunch, and cleaned up, some of us headed to the outlet malls. I was sadly disappointed because they were nowhere near the caliber of the ones in Park City, but I still found a few deals. After that I met up with my Grandparents for dinner at Pizza Factory and a movie. We saw Flyboys, which I have to admit I had some reservations about simply by the title, but the movie was great! I highly recommend it! It was filmed in St. George so my grandparents loved to tell me where the scene was in St. George. After the movie we went to Golden Spoon (Sorry, but I didn't see what everyone raves about! I love the natural frozen yogurt, and this was not it!) After that I hung out at their house while I waited for my friends to get back from their play. We got back to Stacey's at about midnight and it was time for bed.

Nanna and Papa at Golden Spoon

Sunday we got up, went to church, had a delicious lunch, and headed home. On the way home the drive was nice but as I was driving I was in the left lane and there was a car in the right lane that was slowing and then completely stopping. I said, "Hm, why is that idiot stopping in the middle of the lane?" Then I saw why... a deer jumped right in front of my car. I quickly slammed on the breaks and put out the human arm to prevent Judith, in the passenger seat, from going through the window (as if my arm would have done any good!). Luckily we didn't hit it, but I was pretty shaken up from it. I'm glad to say we made it safely home after that!

My weekend was crazy with Park City and St. George but it was so nice to get away, to be with friends, and to see my Grandparents. Next week it's General Conference and the cabin at Snowbird! I'm excited for another weekend away and to actually be able to go to Conference! I only wish my mom, dad, and Robbie could come! Love you guys!

Park City Getaway

2008-09-29T21:30:00.000-05:00

So this year I am privileged to have been chosen to attend this "Associates Program" through my school district. Basically, it's a fancy way of saying I get to go to meetings. I went with my principal, Michael, and a sixth grade teacher, Kelly. Lucky for me the meetings are at various locations throughout Utah. This last meeting was in GORGEOUS Park City and let's just say they spoiled us. I stayed in a room by myself that normally costs $1,000 a night!

I was nervous to leave my students for a sub, especially for two straight days. I have some kids this year that really like to push their boundaries, so, just like they were my own kids, I worried about them most of the time I was there. Luckily I was able to relax for a little bit and take in the beauty that was my two days away from work!

Thursday I got up there early (8am) for meetings. I checked into my room before my meetings started and all I could say over and over was, "Oh my goodness, oh my goodness!" I walked into to a full kitchen, a breakfast nook, granite countertops, a breathtaking view off my personal balcony, a king sized bed, a jacuzzi in my room, and a steam shower. Let's just say I was sad I would only be spending one night there!

I had meetings until about 2 pm on Thursday then we went on a little field trip to the Olympic Park. I didn't get a chance to come to Utah during the 2002 Winter Games, so I was glad they took us to see some of the sights. We got to watch the Freestyle Aerial jumpers practice. They would go off the jumps and land in a pool of water. An interesting note was that they blow air into the pool to create bubbles for a softer landing surface. They had the Chinese team, American team, and Canadian team there practicing. We also got to see the regular Aerial practice jumps and some 12 year olds practicing. I was truly in awe at what these young kids were doing. They said they start kids at 4 or 5 going off the aerial jumps! Lastly we saw the Bobsled and Luge tracks. It was hard to try to picture them covered in ice with sleds going down them at about 80 mph. In the winter you can go up there and take a luge ride with a professional driver for about $200. If I only had an extra $200 lying around!

That night we went to dinner on Main Street (one of my favorite parts of Park City). Dinner was good but it took 2 1/2 hours for us to eat because there were so many of us! Afterwards Michael, Kelly and I got carmel apples at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. I ate mine as I sat in the jacuzzi and watched Grey's Anatomy (could it get better than that?) After that I wrapped up in the complimentary robe and relaxed.

The next day was filled with meetings, but afterwards I hit up the outlet mall, which was having outrageous sales! Then it was home for an hour to pack for St. George! I can't wait to go back to Park City in about a month! (Did I mention I get to go every other month? Life is tough!)

Classic Skating

2008-09-22T21:17:00.000-05:00

Where do you get a tons of kids, $1 hot dogs, and smelly feet? That's right a skating rink! Tonight was our school skate night, and I figured since I had "reasons" not to go in the past I had actually better make an appearance. Jenni and I got there just planning on eating, watching and leaving but I got the skating bug and rented skates (in all their disgustingness!) It was fun skating around with my students and I love to see them outside of the classroom environment. I'm sure they will write about it tomorrow during writing! Oh, mom I even skated to September by Earth Wind and Fire (If I only had a dollar for every time my mom said, "I roller skated to this.") Overall it was a fun night and it only cost me a dollar. Now I have to go wash my feet!

A Night Away

2008-09-20T10:36:00.000-05:00

So last night I went up to my second hometown...Kaysville. Brandt and I drove up at about 6pm and went to Mike's for dinner and dessert. We had to hold ourselves back from stopping at IKEA for meatballs (so delicious and cheap!) Ingrid made delicious chicken and pasta and then we sat around the fire pit and just chatted! It was exactly the relaxation I needed! This week it's two days in Park City! The weekend after that it's the condo at Snowbird and conference. Week after that it's Kacey and Brandon's wedding, then it's home during Fall Break. It's shaping up to be a great next few weeks!

Lots of Things to Say Today...

2008-09-16T18:39:00.001-05:00

I have a lot on my mind today so bear with me...

1. Mondays at school are great. The kids are well behaved because they have had the weekend to relax and recoup, but then Tuesday comes. Tuesdays are my least favorite days. I feel like Tuesdays my class is out of control, well only in the afternoon. I guess this is supposed to be a humbling experience. I have previously had very good classes (the last two years). I don't know what it is about this years class: maybe it's the 10 boys and 6 girls, maybe it's the fact that I have 4 kids that are bound for special ed, or maybe it's the fact that they just don't know how to sit still for 10 minutes. I am about to loose my mind. Here are a few of my favorite moments from today..

a. lkdjlt what is 2 plus 2 (as I hold up my fingers for her to count)... "Um.. 1?" Nope try again... "Um, 19?" It was at this point I knew it was going to be a long day.

b. llkdlk didn't finish his math so he was supposed to come in at lunch recess to finish. He didn't, I had to go get him off the playground. Then later on in the day, he stole some of my sticky tack and decided to add his boogers to it. Oh, joy, it's no longer sticky anymore!

c. The constant noises that come from 7 year old boys mouths. My class' personal favorite... farting noises, whistling, and burping.

2. I went to pick up my glasses today. I still really like them but was sick as I paid for the last half of the payment. Walking into the doctors office there was this little boy peering out the 4th story window. The kid was waving wildly at me and I realized it was one of my master noise makers from my class. I waved back and gave him a smile. I realized that even though I had to use my teacher voice with him not an hour earlier, he was still excited to see me. This is why I love 2nd grade. While at the doctors office I saw a handicapped child that I worked with when I worked for the Provo School District. This kid was my favorite kid, and I have thought of him a lot over the years. I became very attached to him over the 3 years I was able to do physical therapy with him. I went over to his mom and introduced myself to her, and said hi to Quinlan. It was a tender mercy to be able to see him.

3. Jenni and I are going to go scootering tonight. Call it my workout, cause I'm not dragging my sore butt to the gym tonight!

That's enough of my ranting for one night! Hope you didn't read all that! :)

Kids say the Darnest Things!

2008-09-10T19:49:00.000-05:00

So for the past two weeks we have been learning about weather. Today we talked about "Wild Weather" such as hurricanes, tornados, floods, and cyclones. One of my my boys said, "I know what a cyclone is cause I know a song about cyclones. Miss Peterson, it's a hip hop song." UM.... don't worry the lyrics to this song he knows go: she moves her body like a cyclone...like a cyclone! Oh the things kids say!

Housewarming Party

2008-09-08T22:26:00.001-05:00

Jenni and Tracy and I are having a housewarming party this Saturday, complete with snacks, Karaoke, the Wii, and good friends. YOU ARE ALL INVITED!!! Let me know if you want directions. We would love to see you! (No gifts are needed!)

Time: 7pm

Where: The New place

Why: Because we want to see all of you!

Let me know if you want to come!

2008-09-08T19:22:00.000-05:00

Despite being compltely depressed about having to pay SO much for eyewear that I pretty much only wear at night, I am so excited about my new glasses! They are so cute! They are pretty hip and trendy, which I am neither of, but I think they will inspire me! I look very professional chic in them. They look orange in this picture, but they are really brown. I never wear my old glasses out, but I might just ditch the contact lenses every now and then jus to wear these little beauties.

A Full Weekend

2008-09-05T21:00:00.000-05:00

Today after work Jenni, Katie and I hit up the Utah Valley Women's Expo. It was great! Tons of great crafts, treats, and jewelry. It was fun walk from booth to booth and I even got a cute necklace and jewelry holder. Even though my feet were killing me after a long day of work (I don't think I sat down ONCE today, except to eat my lunch for like 10 minutes!)

Tomorrow it's off garage sale-ing. Jenni and I are getting up at 7! I know you think I'm crazy to get up that early on a Saturday, but lets be honest, that's sleeping in for me! I'm usually up by 5:30! We have mapped out our route, discussed the best plan of attack, and decided we need to get a goods night rest. We are on the hunt for a cute table for the entry way, and maybe a few more home decorations.... we will see what turns up.

White and Blue, Through and Through

2008-08-31T21:03:00.000-05:00

Saturday I got to go to the BYU vs. Northern Iowa game with Jenni. It was fun to be back in Cougar Stadium to be cheering on my Alma Matter. We did win (it got kinda scary in the third quarter). It was blazing hot and I had flashbacks to the ASU vs. USC game a few years ago. I'm excited for the rest of the season! Go Cougars!

Home Sweet Home

2008-08-31T12:27:00.000-05:00

Here are pictures of the new place! It is still a work in progress, but I am absolutely in love with it!

Mine and Jenni's Bathroom

My dresser and nightstand

My big beautiful bed! I am making more throw pillows tomorrow...in the color mustard!

The view from the loft upstairs, looking down on the living room

The front entrance. You can see up the stairs and into the living room. The half bath is the open door on the left.

Jenni and I's chairs for our backyard (that's not grammatically correct, I know!)

Yes that is my car parked IN A GARAGE!!! I even have a garage door opener! Whoohoo!

The kitchen. The paint is really not that lime green, it's just the lighting.

It is so nice to be in a house that is new and that doesn't house 8 girls (not that I didn't love the YBH). It's a new start and so far it has been FANTASTIC!

First Night

2008-08-24T11:11:00.000-05:00

So Friday after work and ALL DAY yesterday were spent moving! I am exhausted and sore, but I am so excited to be in my new place. My friend Tracy bought a 1600 sq. ft. townhouse in Lehi. It is only about a year old and has lots of nice upgrades. It is quite the change from the old and delapidated Yellow Brick House that has been my home for two years. My room is all put together and I have a beautiful new antique black bedroom set. Jenni and I are now master room movers and plan on applying at RC Willey next summer (jk!) I slept in my new Queen size bed last night and just about got lost in the covers. I grew up sleeping in a queen size bed, so coming to college and sleeping on a twin was quite an adjustment. Last night I slept right in the middle and had TONS of room on either side. It was glorious!

Jenni's new couch is gorgeous and so comfy. We tested it out last night and watched a movie. Now the fun part comes... decorating. Now we just have to get ready for the housewarming party! I'll keep you posted! Thanks Sean and Leslee for helping me move my TV! Pictures to come later!

Denver In A Day

2008-08-17T16:58:00.000-05:00

So Friday I had to work and I had my friend Amber's wedding (she was a beautiful bride! Congrats Amber and Trace!) so I flew to Denver on Saturday morning for Kelsey and Grant's open house. The flight was pretty uneventful, except for the landing when the plane literally bounced! I am already a nervous flyer, so for me it was scary (the lady next to me screamed...I was more calm than that!). While I was waiting for my flight at the SLC airport an Indian man started up a conversation with me about my 800 page book I'm reading. I told him my book was about Vampires and Werewolves and he asked me if it was like the movie VanHelsing. I tried to explain to him what it was about but he didn't get it, and I gave up trying. Somehow the conversation turned to BYU and he asked me if I partied much while I was at school. Of course I had to explain to him that our idea of partying was probably not the same. He also grilled me about why I decided not to move to Arizona and I had to explain to him that it just didn't feel right. Before we knew it our flight had arrived and although it was fun to chat with him, I was glad the intense grilling from a stranger was over.

Dad, Mom and Rob picked me up at the airport and then it was off to see Denver. The weather was rainy and it was FREEZING! We headed to downtown Denver to check out all the major league parks and then to Denver University to check out the campus. Of course we had to check out their hockey arena and buy some DU shirts.

There were these funny benches at D.U. so of course we had to get my picture on the Lips bench!

Robbie in front of D.U's ice. (Hockey is included in all trips in some form!)

After that we went to the hotel to get ready for the open house. The Tanners have a very nice home and the food was delicious. It got pretty old there after a while because we were supposed to mingle and not form a line...I hung out with Robbie most of the night. My dad, "Mr. Social Butterfly" was chatting away. We got back to the hotel at about 11pm and I was asleep soon after... so much for sitting in the hot tub. I flew back to Utah this morning, a short 24 hours after I arrived in Denver, and tomorrow it's back to the daily grind.

The happy couple on their "One Week" Anniversary!

The Finished Product

2008-08-17T16:54:00.000-05:00

I have been working on my classroom for what seems like forever! I had to move into a smaller classroom this year (school politics) and finally have it arranged in a way that will hopefully be functional! I love my big windows throughout the classroom though! Now, just picture it with 18 seven year olds, and you will get a picture of my "second home".

More From Wedding Week

2008-08-17T16:40:00.000-05:00

Kelsey and Robbie enjoying thier Mongolian Barbeque.

Kels and I showing how much we STILL had left. It's always better as leftovers anyways!

Feeling Yucky

2008-08-14T20:24:00.000-05:00

How is it that I seem to get a nasty cold right before school starts? I get the heebies just thinking of being sick around all those kids next week. If I'm sick now, what's a few million germs going to do to me? Not to mention I have to fly on a plane on Sat and Sun and that's always fun with a head cold. I should be packing and cleaning and getting ready to move next week, but I think I'm just going to bed. Ugh.

(Sorry, I really don't mean to complain, but I can't remember the last time I felt this exhausted/crummy)

Back To School, Back to School

2008-08-12T19:30:00.000-05:00

I love my job. Today I went back to work. Ugh. Where did Summer go? Meetings, meetings and meetings this week. It will get better when my room is packed with rambunctious 7 year olds.... one of whom is named Samaritan. Yep that's right Samaritan. Only in Utah! This picture was at the end of last year. They were as excited as I was to be done.

The Long Awaited Day

2008-08-11T19:56:00.000-05:00

Kelsey and Grant got married on Saturday (the main reason I went home!). The day couldn't have been more perfect. Even though it was 93 degrees, it didn't storm, like we thought it might. Here are some pictures I stole from Lauren's facebook. More pictures coming soon! Congrats Kels and Grant! I love you both!

Me, Kels and Lauren: The Bridesmaids

Sherrie (Grant's Aunt), Lauren, Mom, and Me trying not to melt in the heat.

Boise Day 3

2008-08-07T15:45:00.001-05:00

Today I slept in later than I have all summer! It was wonderful! I got up about 10:30 and it was off to work in the yard. Most of you know how fond I am of yardwork, so luckily I had a lunch date with one of my favorite people that got me out of pulling too many weeds! I got to see Heather and Josh's new cute apartment and catch up with her about the craziness that is our lives.

Heather and I before she left for the temple on her wedding day (back in July)

After I got home the babies came over to visit. They tried on their cute little outfits for the wedding and Blakey couldn't stop smiling. That kid loves clothes. He asked, "Do I look marvelous?" They were so cute! I can't wait to see all the little kids in their wedding outfits. Blakey and Dylan in their wedding outfits.

Next it was off to the Annual 8th Ward picnic and ward swim party at the Natatorium. This year the little boys came with us and it was so much fun. Dylan was terrified of the huge hydrotube at first, but after the first time both he and Blake wanted to ride over and over and over. The water wasn't as cold as in previous years, which made the night even more enjoyable. We had so much fun and the boys lasted all night (we got home at like 10:30)!

The boys shivering and freezing, but asking to go back in.

Swami- An after swimming must for dry hair.

Boise Day 2

2008-08-06T11:51:00.000-05:00

Yesterday we all had trouble remembering if it was Tuesday or Wednesday, but regardless of what day it actually was, it was a good day. We cleaned the Basement and took a good car load to D.I. We ate lunch at Baja Fresh (so delicious) and enjoyed the Shakespeare Festival. Robbie gets extra credit if he goes to the festival so my mom bought Kels, Robbie, Tristan and I tickets to go and see McBeth at Idaho's Shakespeare festival. We left the house at 5 so we could get pizza and get there by 6 to get a good seat. It only took us 30 min. to get there so we go there by 5:30. By some mixup, my mom thought it started at 7 with at green show at 6:30, but it actually started at 8 with a greenshow at 7:30, so we were there like 2 HOURS EARLY!!!! If you know me I hate to be late, but this was ridiculous! We ate our pizza and tried to stay out of the sun.

This is how we all felt about being at the show 2 hours before it started!!!!

When the play actually started it was great! It cooled off and we were able to enjoy the beauty that is Shakespeare. When we got home at 11:00, we got back in the car and picked up Gma and Gpa from the airport!

I also wanted to show you some pictures of our newly remodeled bathrooms. My mom went to town and re-did all but one of the bathrooms in our house! That meant scraping off lovely wallpaper...yuck. I don't have pictures of my paren't bathroom, but that was a task in itself with all the wallpaper! I think they turned out great. (The men aren't too sure about the pink one).

The Guest Bathroom

The Pool bathroom.

The Basement Bathroom (The Girls Bathroom)

Boise-Day 1

2008-08-05T11:02:00.001-05:00

Kels and I drove home yesterday to start the "Week of the Wedding". The drive seemed to go by pretty fast, until we hit Mountain Home and I just wanted to get out of the car. Kels got a nice nap though. :)

We came home and immediately left for dinner. Somehow I always get tricked into going out to Sushi and before I knew it we were at Sakura, and I was not a happy camper. They sat us in one of the little rooms that you have to take your shoes off to enter and practically crawl in to sit down. Dad sat down as gracefully as he could which meant he literally fell and slid his legs under the table.

After everyone's food came I decided that I would try Sushi once and for all. If I gagged (like the previous times) I would call it a good effort. The sushi was HUGE so I cut one in half (I know that's not proper techinique). It was decent, and I didn't gag, so I ate the other half. Then my dad made me try to eat a whole one. Lets just say he practically shoved the thing in my mouth. You see I have this thing with textures. Too many textures at a time, wierd textures, things touching too far back in my throat....all make me gag. I panicked a little, but with my dad's coaching, "swallow some, put some in the side of your cheek..." I managed to get it all down. I then tackled a smaller piece and did alright. Who would of thought I might actually tolerate sushi?

After that where did we go? Where else...the ice rink. Robbie's summer leauge team won 10-5. Good job Bubby. So today the adventure continues. Robbie, Kelsey and Tristan and I are going to the Shakespeare Festival. That should be entertaining!

Does the Journey Seem Long?

2008-08-03T23:00:00.000-05:00

Today I was sitting in Sacrament meeting and I stumbled upon this gem in the hymn book. I have never sang it, but the words seemed to resonate with me today. I was instantly uplifted. Here are the words:

(Click on the link to see it. You can even listen to the music too! )

Does the Journey Seem Long?

Yummers

2008-08-02T21:56:00.000-05:00

I just had coconut shrimp, steak, a salad, veggies, and a huge cookie with ice cream for $6.44. Now I am going to dance the night away. Life is grand.

Thanks Colby!

Dear Migraine

2008-08-01T14:12:00.000-05:00

Dear Migraine,

Yesterday you tried to ruin all my fun. I planned this fabulous day at the waterpark, but you seemed to have other plans for me. You let me taste a little fun, for about an hour, but then you roared your ugly head as I patiently waited in line for what promised to be a great ride. You blocked my vision and I had to promptly leave the slide before I vomited on all the teenyboppers. Then you calmed down again, only to come back with more force than ever. You forced me into my bed for hours, with pain that I never want to experience again. I think it was at that point you thought you won, but I had too much to do yesterday.

Remeber how I threw a great bridal shower (with Shannon)? Remember how I laughed with my friends and ate yummy treats? Remember how you thought you would ruin my day? Well you didn't. Just thought you should know. I won this time.
Love,
Me