fortuitous

Slow and Steady

2012-01-22T16:35:00.001-07:00

So, this wasn't the week I was hoping it would be. My mantra was "Goals are stars to steer by, not sticks to beat yourself with."

Healthy Eating:
I actually rocked this one. I only had one off day. It was Wednesday. I had a 7 am Legislative Preview meeting. Then the day got crunched with little snippets of time between meetings. My boss got hold of the weaker side of my resolve and asked me to pick up lunch. So, I had a few swallows of a Dr. Pepper. Seriously. A few swallows and out the door to my afternoon meeting in American Fork. When I got back it was of course watered down with melted ice, so down the drain it went. After all those meetings, there was no stopping me at the in laws Wednesday night dinner, so I had a Pepsi. And that's all. No more soda the rest of the week. :)

Gym:
Monday: Holiday, so I of course told myself I could take a holiday. Shouldn't have.
Tuesday: YES!
Wednesday: No, see the 7 am Legislative preview above. I actually had good intentions to get up very early and go, but, then, the batteries in the smoke detector went out at 12:30 am. I played with the battery, scouted around the house for something I could rob a battery from, tried to just go back to sleep inspite of the obnoxious chirping. Finally, I decided I could lay there for hours listening to it, or I could go buy a stupid battery. Finally, at 1:30am, new battery installed after a visit to the gas station with Bella in my slippers, I decided not to go to the gym Wednesday morning.
Thursday: YES! Excellent workout. Although, my go to workout show--Friday Night Lights--was a disappointing episode, so I should get double points for making a fabulous workout out of that one.
Friday: We were going on a date night skiing, so I skipped the gym. Lesson learned. Assume we're not going skiing and go to the gym. Allen was curled up moaning through congestion on the couch when I got home. No skiing.

UFOs: Nothing. I thought about it, but, a long afternoon nap sounded better to my cold filled head. (PS, Ve, I think we should definitely schedule some UFO days.)

Teeth: I actually started out well, but then, the cold got the better of my resolve to stand in front of the sink. I started out brushing, flossing and rinsing with the nasty stuff the dentist gave me up until Wednesday, so Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday...four days, that is definitely some incremental progress.

The snow didn't quite pan out as we were hoping either. It was a lot of drizzly rainy days this week. What is with the weather? When it finally broke out and snowed we decided we'd go skiing this morning. Until, we realized, I lost our goggles. The skiing stuff was all together, until the flooded basement at Allen's mom's. Then, I had to spread it all out to dry, I ended up washing a bunch of it, and now, the goggles are no where to be found. I'm so mad at myself. I'm sure they're somewhere safe. In their own special place so I wouldn't forget them...hopefully I find them before the snow disappears on us. :( Cross your fingers I can have a moment of clarity and remember what the heck I did with them. I really want to get some skiing in.

SOPA / PIPA

2012-01-18T19:10:00.000-07:00

If you haven't gone and made some noise about SOPA and PIPA through one of the many avenues out there, please, go now and say something about it. Go to Google and click on the big black box. Or, just go here.

Shhh!

2012-01-15T12:50:00.003-07:00

Don't jinx it, but there's some white stuff in the forecast...Quick, everyone cross your fingers.

This post is boring because, well, this week was rather boring. Hopefully the above mentioned thing we're not mentioning in fear of jinxing it makes this week a little bit more exciting.

Resolution Progress:

Eating More Healthily:

Monday: Excellent. Had breakfast, packed lunch, made a crappy elk roast for dinner. No Soda.
Tuesday: Small soda with my healthy sandwich and small cup of soup lunch--it was a special occasion, I got to go to lunch with my old buddy Eric from my Westwood teller days, so I made an exception, and the cup was like a happy meal cup, so it probably shouldn't even count.
Wednesday: Pretty Good: I had a a can of Pepsi with dinner at the in-laws' house.
Thursday: Excellent. Had breakfast, packed lunch, had a small dinner after basketball--way to late at night. No Soda.
Friday: eh. Didn't eat breakfast, then I had a small soda with lunch--had to get a combo so I could get a 2 for one ski pass. Then I had a soda with dinner.
Saturday: Excellent. Snacked on healthy snacks all day while cleaning the house, and had a salad for dinner. No Soda.
Sunday: I've been nursing one Pepsi.

So, three excellent days and a couple small sodas is still much better than 2011.

Gym:

Monday: YES!
Tuesdsay: YES!!
Wednesday: YES!!!
Thursday: Oops. Slept through my alarm.
Friday: No such luck.

Three is better than the two trips last week. Here's to a better next week.

UFOs:

I found all the parts for and looked at the UFO I should finish first, since the baby I was making it for is turning 2 this July.

Teeth:

Hmm. I flossed two days this week. Better than zero, still room to improve.

I did teach my last session of Junior Achievement for the last semester. What is Junior Achievement you ask? JA is a national program that we are lucky to have here in Utah. I have been asked to sit on the high school committee. If you ever go to Discovery Gateway, way up on the top floor is a place called JA City. It's very cool, and starting later this year they're going to go public and you'll get to go in with Discovery Gateway admission. They will be the first JA City in the country to go public. It's basically a small city. There are stores and banks and radio stations inside, and Real has a a stadium to go watch games in...kids in 5th and 8th grade can go on a field trip to JA City. They get assigned careers and they have to go run the city. There's a mayor who greets guests...the boy who was the mayor when I visited was very cute and did a very good job.

Now, the high school program, which is what I've been working with, brings in volunteers from the community to the high school classrooms to help teach different curriculums. There's a class on being entrepreneurial that business teachers can use so the students learn about running their own business, among several other classes. I've been helping with the financial education classes. I've taught sessions on credit, identity theft and insurance. All very valuable topics that are very under taught in our society. Teachers are so busy trying to teach to the tests the legislators think our kids should be able to pass that people are joining the "Real World" ill equipped to do things like balance a checkbook, protecting their identity, buying insurance and so much more. I should stop. I could go on and on. It's a soapbox topic of mine.

A Rant and Resolutions

2012-01-08T16:27:00.000-07:00

I have a couple bones to pick with Mother Nature. First, a tiny beef: I'm so tired of thin hair. I need some volume. As if having cancer and going through chemo and being bald wasn't enough, why couldn't my hair just grow back in nice and thick and voluminous? Yes, I admit, I used to pay to have my hair thinned, but just slightly; nothing like the current state of things. I want to grow it out, but I'm about to the point that it just looks flat and blech and the thinness starts to be very evident and I give up and chop it all off. Wonder if my boss would let me wear a hat everyday while we grow...

But, the big rant is the one you all know is coming. Did Mother Nature forget to turn her calendar when November was over? Did she forget that Utah is supposed to have "The Greatest Snow on Earth?" This girl wants some powder. Not dust on crust like she sent us yesterday, but some serious, bonafide, nice, deep, soft powder. Doesn't she know that like half of Christmas at our house was snow dependent items? Every day Allen's new snowboard, and my skis stand shining against the wall begging to be taken out. I'm getting to the point that I'm considering a 12-hour road trip just for some skiing. Mount Baker has 120-inch base! And every time my ski alert dings on my phone to tell me we got a measly inch, Mount Baker in Washington is flashing a big double-digit number. Those same storms should be sliding right down the jetstream into Utah. Stupid high pressure. Somebody move that thing. And, when it does finally move, I resolve that I will be on the mountain having a blast.

I made some good resolutions this year, and, so far, I've made some incremental improvement. Instead of just jumping into a half-dozen goals full fledged I'm just trying to do a little better each week. And, maybe you don't want to read about my floss and lunch schedule, but hopefully it gives me a little accountability if I put it out there.

Eat better: In week one, instead of having a large soda each day with lunch, a can of soda at home a couple of nights a week, and a bunch of soda all weekend long, I've had a total of 4 cans of soda and one medium drink with lunch over the last 6-days. This coming week I'll do better still. Also this week, we packed our lunches every day but Friday, and on Friday I ordered a salad instead of a big fat burger or a cream filled soup.
Get back in the gym: I had good intentions this week, but unfortunately I only got in the gym two mornings. But, two is better than zero. I'm gearing up to do much better this coming week. I'm all caught up on my sleep and ready to go. Hopefully the dog and I don't have any more two am confrontations this week--that makes it hard to roll out of bed to go climb on the elliptical.
Take better care of my teeth: I've always been a good brusher. I suck at flossing. I haven't even started on this resolution. I'm trying to decide if it's more convenient for me to floss in the morning or the evening...Hopefully this week I'll give it a little action instead of just thought.
Read a business book and a just for fun book each month. I started reading It's Your Ship a story about the best Damn Ship in the Navy on my lunch breaks. And, I want to finish Summer of Darkness which had me riveted on our last few camping trips last year, and then it was the end of camping...
Finish some of my unfinished projects. I've given a few moments of good creative thinking to this one, but that's definitely not an improvement.

I have some other things I want to have happen in 2012 that I'm working on behind the scenes like sell the condo, but there are a lot of variables outside my control that influence that one, but hopefully next Christmas we'll decorate a nice little house with a backyard and a dog door for Bella.

2012

2012-01-01T14:42:00.000-07:00

Christmas 2011 Rocked. Period. Loved every second. I'm having a hard time letting it be over. The only thing that would have made it any better would have been some white stuff. They say 2 out of 3 Christmases in Utah are white, so I guess that means my next two should be white.

As we move into the new year, I think back a year. If you'd have told me a year ago that I'd look back on 2011 as a good year I would have told you that you were crazy. But, I do look back on it as a good year. I learned, grew, met people I'm so happy to have friendships and associations with, and I'm going into 2012 absolutely happy.

The past few days I've been thinking back almost 14 years to my senior year. The last day of class, one of my favorite English teachers, Ms. Heart gave each of us a class period to find a quiet spot somewhere on campus to sit and ponder. As we walked out the door to her classroom she handed us each something. I was surprised to find a rock. And a note. The note read, "You are exactly where you are supposed to be."

At the time, I was an 18-year old terrified of leaving home. I didn't want to go. I loved high school, I didn't want it to be over. There were grown up decisions on the horizon I didn't want to make. But, Ms. Heart hands me a note that tells me I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be.

And, I was. I went to Snow College and met people who were supposed to be part of my little world who I wouldn't have otherwise met. Over the years, I've pulled out that little rock and the note penned in Ms. Heart's school teacher handwriting and thought how insightful she was to hand me that note. As time went on, I ended up at Beehive Credit Union and the path there wasn't what I'd planned, and I wasn't always happy being on it. But today, I am exactly where I'm supposed to be.

I have dear friends who are going into 2012 looking for work, considering job changes, and treading water in a pool where they don't know which side to swim for. I hope they know and find a little comfort in the thought that they're exactly where they're supposed to be, and that the decisions on the horizon for them will take them down paths they're supposed to be on. It will work out the way it's supposed to, and each hurdle makes you that much better and gets you that much closer to a place you can't even imagine. I know I'd never imagined being in the place I am today.

In 2012, may we all embrace the places we're supposed to be, and if it's a stepping stone to that next level, may we have the courage to make the decisions that will put us enroute to that next destination. And, may we find happiness in the journey. Happy new year!

Thankful Thoughts: November 29

2011-11-29T09:47:00.000-07:00

So, I saved the best for last. As November comes to a close, and I'm getting happily wrapped up in Christmas, I have to say how thankful I am for all the people I'm so lucky to be associated with. To work with, to live and love and laugh with, to fight with and to support on the journey called life.

The fine folks who got up at the crack of dawn with me on Thanksgiving morning in a bitter wind to run the Utah Human Race which benefited the Utah Food Bank. In the days leading up, I kept wondering who's crazy idea it had been as I thought of how little sleep I was going to get (it was mine if you didn't know). But, come Thanksgiving morning when everyone was there and the runners were making their way towards the finish line, I was so glad we'd done it. What a great kickoff to Thanksgiving day, giving to those who weren't so blessed as I to have two dinners to go to that day, and another the next. Those who were grateful for the can of corn and a few other items they were able to get from The Food Bank. I'm so thankful to work for a company who makes it a priority to give back to the community that the business resides in. And, I'm thankful that I'm the one in charge of the community work in Utah. If I weren't, I'm certain that sleep would win out some mornings, or an afternoon on the couch would beat out service projects yet to come.

I sometimes joke that I crack the whip at work, but I'm thankful for the fine fellows I work with. They have so many talents, and worry about my friends who report to them. I'm thankful to see their concern for people I've worked with for years, and people I've only just met. I'm glad to call them friends and colleagues.

For my Black Friday compadres. Each year my mother-in-law, sisters-in-law, a few cousins and aunts and I dig faithfully through the ads and then head out. Since I got sucked into their shopping black hole, I haven't slept a wink on Thanksgiving night. But, I have had a lot of fun watching crazies fight over $2 dvds, running through stores to get the item we all want, and spending time guarding the cart. A lot of people think Black Friday ruins the spirit of Christmas and is just a bunch of grouchy people arguing and fighting over stuff. But, I love the time to spend with the Earles girls and all the good laughs we have. Sometimes I don't even buy anything. deals are great, but more important is the time spent with some cool chicks.

The friends I've made along the way. For mentors who taught me things I use every day, things that helped me get the position I love. Who I can call about anything at all, and who I'm thankful to be able to help on occasion to make up a little bit of all they've given me. For the ones who helped me keep a positive attitude and helped me scale a mountain to find my role in a position I love. For shopping pals and friends who brought a twinkle to my husband's eye with hockey talk and games; for campfire buddies and crazy dirt road rompers. I'm thankful for the girl I call BFF who has walked the longest part of the path with me, and even though we've taken a few forks without the other, our paths always circle back to each other, and I'm so thankful for that. (Psst, we need to do lunch). And, for the ones I don't see often, but who journeyed through some tough stuff with me, who I can still go to lunch with and it's like we've been seeing each other every day still over all the years.

I'm thankful for the strong women I get to call Grandma. I've learned so much from both of them. They're such talented ladies who have so many stories to tell and lessons to teach, and recipes and tricks to pass on. I don't get over to see them as often as I should, but I treasure the time that I do. I'm thankful for cousins and aunts and uncles who as life gets busy and more little families get started, I don't get to see as often as I used to, but they're always family, and I think fondly of them often.

These kiddos:

I can hardly believe that I've been an aunt for five whole years. It's flown by. They each have these little personalities that I adore, and I can't get enough of them, and, happily anticipate the next arrival. Who knew that being an aunt was so fun?

And, those two grown ups in the picture are pretty cool too. I'm thankful for all the things they taught me over the years, and that they are two of my best friends. I'm grateful that I know I can ask them for help, whatever sticky situation I may find myself in. I'm loving watching them be grandparents. This isn't an announcement of any kind, but I can't wait for my kids to get two of the raddest grandparents around.

I'm thankful for all these kids:

I'm thankful for the wonderful talents they all have. I sometimes think how astounding it is that we could all come out of the same house and have such different interests and talents. I love to sit around and talk about old memories, or new adventures or get in a rousing game of Nuts (which we haven't played in for-ev-er) with these guys. And, I'm thankful that they went out and found some really great additions to our family, because I'm thankful to have great siblings-in-law taking care of my siblings, and to be part of the circle of folks I'm most thankful for.

For this boy:

Who luckily didn't divorce me during the crappy year we just finally made it to the end of. I'm certain I was not a fun gal to live with during it. For laughing with me, and going to black tie parties with me, and football games with me. For teaching me more than I ever wanted to learn about plumbing and hunting. For being my sounding board and shoulder to cry on, and my companion on all the best adventures.

A lot of people have influenced my life over the years. I think fondly of so many of them, often. I went back to my village post for my 30th birthday, and was surprised to see that some of them have gone, and probably wouldn't get mentioned had I been writing it now. And, there are some wonderful new folks. People come and go from our lives when we need them, but, there are core people who are always there. I'm so thankful to have the best core of anyone I know. Fortuitous.

Thankful Thoughts: November 20

2011-11-20T20:28:00.001-07:00

I had good intentions of posting much more consistently in November. Shouldn't be hard to list somethings I'm thankful for everyday, after all, it's a long list that I like to count each day as I fall asleep. But, life is crazy. I love my job. A lot. I told my boss the other day that I have a hard time turning it off and going home. He told me that we'd work together and get each other out of the office at a decent, close to on schedule time. So far, so good.

So, more blogging, right? Well, maybe. I've got my house mostly scrubbed down for making merry. Just one more wall to wash in the bedroom, a good clean of the bathroom and we'll be decking the halls. Yesterday I worked from sun up to past sun down to get carpets cleaned, walls scrubbed, furniture moved, and at the end of the day when I sat down, I was so thankful for a shiny clean house. I love the smells and the feeling of satisfaction to sit down after cleaning.

Yesterday I was also thankful for our discovery of doggie day care for this monster:

Allen went to get me carpet shampoo and came home without the dog. Bella loved it, and came home one tired dog. And, I didn't have to quit cleaning every time she wanted to go out and sniff around.

I am thankful for people at work who quietly help behind the scenes and help me pull of big events. Even when I'm completely organized and prepared, it takes some extra hands to get all the finishing touches together.

I am thankful for cold medicine and Sprite and ibuprofen and everything else that has helped us make it through the month as cold and flu season comes to town.

Lastly, I know lots of people get annoyed that I'm already singing about holly and jolly and dreaming of white, but I'm thankful for this time of year. I'm thankful that I was taught about it being all about love; that this season starts early in the year for me and I walk around smiling and feeling extra happy in my heart for a bigger chunk of the year than 25 days or so in December.

Thankful Thoughts: November 7

2011-11-07T22:33:00.000-07:00

In my current position, I'm the lucky gal who gets to pick people up from the airport. Often. As I picked a fellow up this afternoon, he remembered that he'd forgotten to pack his camera. As I looked up at the snow covered mountains where I could see more snow falling, I thought how thankful I am that I can take pictures of beautiful views like these every single day. Just one of about a hundred reasons I'm so thankful to live in Utah.

Thankful Thoughts: November 5

2011-11-06T12:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was thankful to wake up and go outside to this. After all, who's not dreaming of a white Christmas?

Grinch Fingers. :)

Bella and I played in it for quite a while:

I'm also thankful that yesterday, Allen and I had the opportunity to get all dressed up to go to the Signature Chefs Gala for the March of Dimes. They had fabulous chefs from fabulous restaurants like Glitretind at Stein Erickson, Pago, Tin Angel, Grand America, and about a dozen others. They all made fantastic food. We wandered around tasting their wares, and bidding on silent auctions. It was a fun night with some of my co-workers all for a good cause.

I'm also very, very thankful for my talented grandmother who did some last minute altering on my dress that turned out perfectly. I am thrilled with her handiwork. And, the nice girls who took all my text messages about what kind of jewelry and matching blacks and shoes and everything else.

(don't ask me why I tilted my head so much.)

Thankful Thoughts

2011-11-03T23:43:00.003-06:00

One year ago today, a good chunk of the stable life I was firmly planted on started crumbling out from under me. Little did I know, it had been eroding from beneath for quite some time, and as I stood on top of the vista, I had no idea I was standing on thin ice.

As I thought of a new company, without a second thought, erasing all the heart and soul I'd put into web pages, brochures, writing and so many other things, I stared at my shoes through pools of tears. In a fog I found my way home to cry in my dear husband's arms, and sob about missing my mentor--she'd know what to do if she were there, wouldn't she?

One year ago tomorrow was stage two, and more dazed looks as I listened to more and more information out of Texas. A circle of us shivered in the cold and cursed the universe and contemplated unemployment and the approaching holiday season.

I left 2010 not having enjoyed my favorite season of the year; not having the stable work life I'd come to take comfort in and advantage of; not having many of my work day friends around any longer; not having as tight a grasp on who I wanted to be as I'd have liked. I felt angry, betrayed, sad, unsure and found myself at the beginning of a new path.

The new path didn't appear to be going somewhere I wanted to go. In fact, part of it seemed to be going backwards to places I'd already been and happily left behind. But, there were people walking down it that I'd come to think of as friends, and I decided that a new path with friends was probably more to my liking than a new path with strangers. Besides, some of those other new paths had gates that no one seemed to want to unlock because the economy was so questionable.

Now it's one year later, 365 days down that new path, and I find myself thankful. I'm thankful for the folks from Texas who came into my world and shook it up a little. They made me leave my comfort zone. Many days it was uncomfortable. Many days I complained and griped. There were days I resolved over and over that I'd make the best of things and try to have a good attitude. There were days that I thought maybe I could manage this. And, there were days I thought still of going back to that other new path with all new people.

But, now, I've grown. I've come so far from one year ago today. I'm now doing something I absolutely love, with people I love. I've gained new friendships, and strengthened some that I might not have otherwise deepened, and they're invaluable to me, I wouldn't trade them for anything. Looking back, the hellacious days that came in the midst of the last 365 seem a small price to pay for the smile I get when my boss tells me I'm doing an awesome job, or one of my new besties says "Good morning, my dear" on the interoffice messenger.

It took some climbing to get here, and a lot of falling down. But, today, I am thankful that I work for the company I do. I am so thankful for the people I work there with; for a great boss, for a great collaborative team, and great friends. I'm thankful that I love what I do. That every day I work hard, I'm proud of the work I'm doing and that the days are flying by. After all, time flies when you're having fun--oh what a world, where a job is fun.

PS: I told Allen the other day, I have to make up for a lost Christmas. This is going to be a super-spectacular-fantabulous Christmas at our house, and I can't wait. Welcome to my favorite season of the year.

Fight Like a Girl

2011-10-29T22:00:00.000-06:00

This story has been told, on two other blogs, that most of you probably read, but I've been meaning to tell it too. It was my first big assignment in a new job, and I'm pretty proud of the outcome, and raring to go for next year when it will be bigger and better now that I know what I'm doing. A brand new branch of a much bigger company was tasked with raising $1,000 per location for a total of $14,000. I'm proud to say that going in without any idea what we were doing, our new team raised well over $16,000 for cancer research.

Taking the lead on this made me think a lot back to my fight with cancer, and I did a lot of listening to Bomshel's song with the same title as this post. I thought a lot about how thankful I am for my family, and the friends who saw me through my fight, and all the seemingly small things that were actually huge that they did for me, like bring me frosties and magazines, bringing me chocolate chocolate cake donuts, buying hats, making quilts, giving shots of neupogen, smearing avocado on cheeks, shaving heads, laughing at my inappropriate cancer jokes, pretending that nothing was wrong so I could have a regular day, and so many other things. And, many of those same people fought again with me over the last few months, giving generously to my fundraising efforts. I can't express my thanks enough to the support group that I'm so lucky to love and admire and appreciate. Fantastic people who have helped mold my world.

The event was fun, and for those of you who didn't make it this year, as soon as I have a date for next year, I'll get it on your calendar, but I really enjoyed the moments of gratitude I had while working on this as I thought back to the battle that got us here.

Cloud Nine

2011-10-16T18:35:00.001-06:00

After this year's elk hunt, Allen's walking there...

The hunt opened with snow.

Lots and lots of snow.

Allen wandered through the woods with a friend:

Thursday morning, Allen and his hoochie mama ran into this guy:

Deer Camp

2011-10-02T22:57:00.000-06:00

Allen went deer hunting over the past week. He didn't shoot anything with his gun, but he did some good shooting with the camera.

It Turned Colder...

2011-09-25T19:58:00.000-06:00

Where oh where did the summer go? It flew right by. And, while I'm loving the changing leaves as we drive up the canyon for our last few camping trips of the year, and I'm enjoying being back under those Friday Night Lights and spending Sunday afternoons watching football, I'm a little sad that this summer's over. We had so many good times.

We went to Flaming Gorge for our third honeymoon trip. Our friends Travis and Sarah share our anniversary with us, though they have a few years on us. We enjoy taking a fun trip with them (although we mostly camp every weekend with them all summer long, so it's not an exception), and Sarah and I make the boys spend the big day doing something nice with their wives. I saw my first herd of elk in the wild on this trip. Allen and I chased them across a ravine and up a hill. It was awesome. I should have taken a picture when we first saw them, but I was unprepared and just got some butt shots and a few from a distance. We went to the beach, rafted the Green River and Bella did a ton of swimming in the lake. We had a blast. I could live at Flaming Gorge, if I only had a boat. But, boat or no, I see a lot more time at the Gorge in our future. (Consider yourself warned, we were there for almost 10 days, it's a long slideshow)

We spent some time up by Whitney Reservoir with Trav and Sarah and our friends Ashley and Jason who just bought their trailer. Whitney was their first time out.

We went up by Strawberry Reservoir to hold a spot for Labor Day where Allen hoped to do some scouting for the deer hunt, and some grouse hunting. Strawberry gets me feeling a little nostalgic. I spent a lot of time there with my cute Grandpa. Makes me miss him, but I feel a little bit of him still there.

We also took Madison and Spencer up by Strawberry for their birthday camping trip.

Light the Night

2011-09-12T18:54:00.000-06:00

I have lots of great things to blog about, but they're on perma-hold until we get done raising money for cancer. Read more here.

How you can help:

Donate Here.
Work for a company that does great philanthropic work, or would donate things like passes to skate or see a movie or golf 18 holes or something else? Give us some stuff to sell with all proceeds going to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Donate that stuff you were giving away anyway to a parking lot sale this Saturday. (Drop donations off at 4700 S and 2700 W location of Security Service)
Go buy some stuff at the parking lot sale this Saturday.
Come walk at the big event on Saturday, September 24 at Sugarhouse Park. You can register to walk at 5:30. They'll have a kid zone and bands and good stuff before the walk at 7:30.
Send the info to people you know who are looking for a good cause to support. Use that network of yours to help in the battle against cancer.

Together, our small donations and efforts become big.

Never Forget

2011-09-11T09:15:00.000-06:00

I wanted to post something new for today's occasion. I saw a billboard on I-15 Friday night. A simple black background with a pause symbol. Pause and remember said the words. So symbolic, so touching, so simple. Those two bars standing side by side said it all. Standing like those twin towers, standing for pause, looking like the number 11. I got chills as I drove home and thought that was the image for my blog...alas, it's not online. It's tough to snap a picture flying down the freeway at 65 mph, but if it's still there on Monday, I'll pull over and snap a picture.

In my searching, I couldn't find better than what I found last year, which still, gives me chills and says so much to my little heart. I pray that America, and particularly its leaders, can rediscover the unity I so fondly recall as I think back to the day that changed the world I live in.

"Let us remember how we came together as one nation, as one people, as Americans united not only in our grief, but in our resolve to stand with one another, to stand up for the country we all love."

--President Barack Obama

Pardon the Interruption

2011-08-15T21:30:00.001-06:00

Of all our summer fun, we will return to our regularly scheduled summer post next time. For now, something important is on my mind.

You probably already know, I’m a cancer survivor. Not breast cancer as a lot of people seem to think. I am a Hodgkin’s Lymphoma survivor.

Since finishing treatment for Hodgkin’s disease, I’ve found myself on a soap box. The Susan G. Komen business just made me crazy every year at breast cancer awareness time. I even found myself irritated with mail from the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I couldn’t figure out why all these little causes didn’t join together for one big cause: CANCER. It’s all cancer. Why not fight it as one big army instead of a bunch of little ones?

You probably know I work for a big credit union, and how that came to be. When they told us new Utah employees that they’re a national sponsor of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night campaign, I know a lot of people probably wondered why I didn’t jump up and down to be a team captain. It should be my cause, right? I am a lymphoma survivor.

You probably also know that I recently accepted a new position within the credit union. By default, I was the regional team captain for Light the Night. No avoiding it, they roped me right in.

As I sat in a kick off meeting and listened to the statistics, I realized that the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society is doing really good things in the battle against cancer. I realized that this little army is making headway against the opponent. And, maybe if I help it push through, we’ll break through a battle line and join forces with some of the other small armies to defeat cancer entirely.

Last week, there was a big breakthrough in the fight against leukemia. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society funded that research. There are currently four research projects based right here in Utah that are funded by LLS. Maybe all these research projects will help with breakthroughs in other cancers that have affected my world. Maybe they’ll cure the cancer that took my beautiful aunt from us way too soon; the same cancer that took my dear friend’s mom just months before her wedding day. Maybe their research will lead to a cure for the cancer that indirectly took my sweet Grandpa before he got to meet my husband who he would have loved. Maybe the projects funded by LLS will find something that the people fighting against pancreatic cancer can use to save one of my oldest friend’s mom so she can play with her grandkids and watch them grow up, and be around for the days my friend just needs her mom.

An old family friend just got the news: Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. He’s a young dad, with young boys who will grow up and I hope know their dad because of the research LLS has done. His chances are good, and his treatment is underway.

These thoughts got me on the band wagon. I’m eagerly running point on the Utah campaign for Light the Night in our organization.

I hope you’ll help too. Not just because you’re a friend of mine, but because cancer sucks, and someone close to you other than me has been battling or touched by it.

Ways you can help:

Donate on my webpage.
Join my team. Help raise funds, and walk with me at the Light the Night event on Saturday, September 24, 2011 at 7:30 PM at Sugar House Park.
Spread the word. Anyone can visit my page and donate.
Eat at the Riverton Chili’s location on one of these nights. They will donate 15% of proceeds those nights to Light the Night. You can pick up a flier so your meal will be included with the donation at the Riverton branch of SSFCU across the street from Chili’s on 13600 South and approximately 3600 West, or I can get you one, just say the word.

o August 15 or 16

o August 22 or 23

o August 29 or 30

o September 6 or 7

I hope a cure is found sooner than later and definitely in my lifetime. If a night out at Chili’s and the few dollars of lunch or drink money I throw in the pot a couple times a week helps us get there, then I’m happy to pack a ham sandwich and drink water instead of going out.

...Had Us a Blast...

2011-07-30T14:49:00.005-06:00

I had all these plans to blog after work every day this week. But, it's a little bit crazy at work at this moment. I've fallen off all my wagons. Healthy eating plan? Um, does healthy eating include chocolate and Pepsi? Stress delay to healthy eating and vacation got me out of my gym habit and I've not been in a hurry to get back into it. But, maybe August will turn the tides.

Now, about July. July is one of my favorite months of the year. Love it. We start out with a big 4th of July tradition. Allen and his friends tried to figure out how many years they've been doing it and finally figured it's somewhere in the 18 year area.

The week before, to make sure the fourth will pan out, a few of us go up to hold our spot. Since we've got a trailer these days, we're a lucky part of that bunch.

We wandered down to our old camping spot to check things out, just out of curiosity. The water is insane. Three years ago we built the fire pit:

Three years ago we also took the picture below where now there's a big stream of water:

Crazy where the water is. The river was running so, so high.

The following weekend we all went up for the big event. Every year something goes wrong for someone, but we still have a really great time. This year, Freddy and Denise lost their clutch about ten miles before they got to camp. So, we all worked to get a flat bed trailer and get their truck back to Salt Lake.

The East Fork trip is always fun. I'm glad Allen and his friends keep the tradition going.

The next weekend, we took a week off camping. And, I had a little birthday celebration with my bff.

We went to see some fabulous entertaining boys:

Uncle Kracker: I like him, but maybe he didn't feel good. He was a little underwhelming and he didn't come out later in the show in the spot he was obviously supposed to.

Billy Currington: I love this guy. Have loved him since he first showed up on the radio. He put on a good show. Fun to watch.

And, finally, the main event. This guy:

I've also been a fan of his for years. I wished he would have played a few of his old songs, but, when you have as long a list as Kenny does, I guess it gets harder to trim it down to two hours.

Ve and I saw Kenny several years ago and he rocked it. I thought he did a killer job the other night, but it was a close second to the first time I saw him. I was sad that he's starting to look a little older. But, he still rocked it and Kat and I had a heck of a time.

That's only the beginning. July just kept right on rockin'. Stay tuned for Allen and Jenn's Honeymoon Part 3.

Summer Lovin'

2011-07-25T20:29:00.001-06:00

We've been playing. And playing and playing some more.

You might get bombarded with posts here for a while...we'll see how it goes.

When the rain finally stopped falling and the summer sun found its place in the sky, we started enjoying summer time.

We celebrated with this cute girl:

And this cute guy:

Who tied the knot early in June. So, so happy for them. :) (and I have a billion funtastic pics of these cute kids, but I'm still sorting them and cropping and...)

We had some random fun in the parents'/grandparents' backyard:

And, we started camping. We spent a weekend at Strawberry which concluded with a rain storm that meant we couldn't get the trailer out of the camping spot to head home. So, we had to go back up later in the week.

That sums up June. Stay tuned for our crazy fun July. :)

10 Things I Learned From My Dad

2011-06-19T16:11:00.001-06:00

10. The value of a good book. My dad opened up a many other worlds to me. He read to me. We spent countless nights together on a chair or in his bed reading books. Someday when I write my first NY Times Best Selling children's book, my dad's voice is the one I will choose for the book on tape. You can often find him with a book in hand. He taught me to love reading, and it's a gift I'll treasure forever.

9. To appreciate the world we live in. We spent a lot of time outside as a family. Whether on our back lawn, front porch, or up a nearby canyon. We hiked, camped, ate ice cream on the lawn, and now we tend to migrate to the patio in the backyard when the weather cooperates. Being outdoors is one of my very most favorite places to be, and it's thanks to my dad who took the time and spent it with us outside.

8. The value of hard work. A lot of times, our time outside was spent working. The backyard we enjoy these days is because we worked hard raking and leveling and raking and raking and raking some more when we first moved in. I'm always so thankful when I sit down and feel the accomplishment following hard work. It builds self-confidence along with muscles and brain power it sometimes takes to think the project out. I'm thankful for the confidence I have that I can take care of my own yard work and my own projects and save a few bucks by not having to pay someone else to do things for me, or wait until I can fit on someone's schedule.

7. Everything I know about cars. I've said it before, but as I know more and more people handing over dough to mechanics, I become more and more grateful for my dad. He's worked on my car more times than I can count. And, had I been smarter, I'd have done like my sister and got right out there in the grease with him so I'd know even more about cars. But, as it is, I know if I did have to go see a mechanic, I would not fall prey to their schemes to get an extra dollar out of me. I also know when something is seriously wrong as opposed to just something that needs to be looked into, but isn't an emergency. I'm thankful I can walk into an auto store confidently and pick up whatever I need, or that I can stroll over to Walmart because their windshield wiper fluid and oil is cheaper than anywhere else. It's all thanks to my dad.

6. Whistle while you work...and laugh. My dad is always whistling a little tune while he works. It's a root in my love of music. I also remember many an afternoon of my dad working with my Uncle Scott and cousin Bryan working at my Grandma Hansen's. As I recall, those afternoons were always filled with laughter. They'd be hot and sweaty and filthy, and laughing. A spoonful of sugar does help the medicine go down. So, if you have to work, you may as well make it fun.

5. Honesty is the best policy. My dad always told us that if we did something we shouldn't have that he might be mad or disappointed, but if we lied about it, he could guarantee the anger and disappointment would be much worse. I very rarely lied to my dad, but the few times I did, his disappointment in me was devastating. But, it was a much appreciated lesson. There's no sense lying, it will always catch up with you, and the results will definitely be worse than had you just told the truth in the first place. I'm grateful I learned that lesson with someone who loved me like my dad does, and not a boss or someone who could have made my life very miserable.

4. Fire is cool. So is electricity and water and guns and a lot of other things that are potentially dangerous. But, I'm thankful that instead of just sheltering us from things that could be dangerous, he taught us to use them and enjoy them responsibly. I'm glad he took the time to talk to us about potentially harmful things so that I didn't have to learn about them from people who may not have taught me as well as he did how to use them safely. Because I sure enjoy fire and water and guns and probably electricity, but I don't so much play with it like we used to on that Jacob's ladder in the shop.

3. A well stocked garage is invaluable. My dad's garage has all the basics: screwdrivers, hammers, wrenches, pliers, saws, a drill press, a vice....and a whole lot more. Yes, I know what all these things look like and I can use them for the proper reasons (and improper reasons, I have been known to use the wrong end of a screw driver as a hammer on a lazy occasion when I didn't get a hammer out), thanks to my dad. He was always willing to let us work along side him and always willing to let us use his tools...as long as we put them away. Sometimes I still have to have his help, even if I've seen him use it a thousand times like his air compressor last week, and he's always willing to take a minute and show me. Someday I'll have a garage (and get my four-wheeler out of his), and I hope to model it after my dad's with all the basics.

2. Patience is a virtue. My dad probably won't admit it, but he's patient. I love watching him with the grandkids. When they've long since made me nuts with their running and squealing, he'll scoop one of them up and roar at them. He'll listen to their stories about their toy or their adventure outside over and over. They adore him, and I can't wait to add a couple little Earles' to the list of lucky kids who get to call him Grandpa.

1. Love. We weren't an "I love you" family, but I've always known my dad loves us. From climbing up his legs to do back flips, to dancing on his feet to games of hide and seek at bedtime, our home was always full of laughter. He worked hard to give us wonderful birthdays and Christmases and regular plain old Saturday afternoons of life experiences. He's always been a great example of love by respecting our mom. He's nurtured and encouraged her talents as well as ours, even when it meant nights of no mom while she was reffing ball games, or now while she watches some of us ref ball games. We have a long line of love in our family, and at the top of our circle is the great example we are so lucky to call Dad.

What a Difference a Day Makes

2011-06-07T22:33:00.000-06:00

This morning, my kitchen looked like this:

Tonight, my kitchen looks like this:

Up To

2011-05-29T16:04:00.000-06:00

We've been busy...but it doesn't seem like we have much to write about.

On one of the few sunshiney days I ate lunch in the park and saw this crazy crow that was the size of a fat housecat. Little crazy and creepy. Maybe he was foreshadowing the craptastic weather pattern we're stuck in.

We've spent a ton of time working in Allen's parents' backyard. I don't have pictures though...I'll try to take some this week. We need to be better at taking pictures before. Allen's worked his tail off back there and it's looking awesome, but it looks more awesome to me because I know how it looked before.

I threw a bridal shower for this adorable cousin of mine who is getting married next week. She's going to be a fabulously gorgeous bride and we're so happy for her and her beloved.

Bella turned green:

And, I've played a lot with these awesome kiddos:

Ten Things My Mom Taught Me

2011-05-08T14:30:00.001-06:00

10. It's more than just a game. We've all heard that old saying when someone gets too worked up while in the heat of competition, that it's just a game. My mom taught me that it's more than just a game. I've learned so many lessons while playing ball, that have made me a better person in my every day life. I've learned about fair play and sportsmanship; about de-escalating situations of high emotion; hard work; team-work and filling roles within a team; and so much more. I've watched others learn lessons through sports, and I have had the opportunity to teach people lessons through sports as a referee and a coach. Those events that people say are just a game are close to my heart, and I have been known to get teary while teaching a lesson on a basketball court, or watching someone else learn them. I wish I could teach everyone this value that lies in what they think is just a game.

9. If you can't play nice with everyone, you can't play at all. I know I talk about this lesson a lot, but it's proven to be invaluable. I have friends of every creed and color, and have been exposed to wonderful cultures and know fabulous individuals because my mom expected me to treat everyone well and find a way to get along with them. I'm a richer person because of this.

8. Life doesn't always have a way out. When I was starting third grade, we took that exciting trip to the elementary school as the summer drew to a close to find out who my teacher was going to be. We scrolled down the lists and found my name under Mrs. Altig's name. As soon as word was out, we had a million people telling us to get out. She was horrible they said, didn't grade fairly, failed kids who should have passed, was stern with good kids. I remember being a little nervous about this wicked witch teacher I was going to have. After some thought, my mom decided I was going to stick it out. It kind of went back to lesson number nine, find a way to get along with others, but more that sometimes in life, you're going to have to work with and learn from people you don't like and don't want to learn from, but to get ahead in life, it's a skill you need. Mrs. Altig ended up being one of my very favorite teachers, and at that point, I decided I was going to be a third grade teacher just like her. That hasn't exactly panned out, but I'm thankful that when it seemed it was going to be hard, my mom didn't go in and give me an easy way out.

7. What sculpture is to a block of marble, education is to the soul. Every one of my mothers' children has had some college education. Education was important in our house, even before my mom was a teacher. I was expected to do my best and get good grades, and there were probably more fights over math problems and spelling lists than anything else between us kids and the parents. I'm thankful that my mom put an emphasis on our education and nagged me to get back to school and get my degree. It's something I'm so proud to have. And, I learned a lot about myself through choosing classes and listening to wonderful lectures by great professors and teachers. I discovered interests I would have never known otherwise.

6. Chores first, play second. We were expected to do chores in our house. There were seven days of the week, and seven members of our family. We all had a day that was ours to cook dinner, a day that we were to set the table, a day we were to vacuum or take out the garbage, etc. I wasn't so grateful for the chores while my friends went outside, but when I went away to college, I was happy to be able to cook something that didn't come from a box, and wash my own clothes, and keep a clean (somewhat) apartment.

5. Dogs are Man's best friend. We always had pets growing up. I grew up with cats and mostly dogs. I rode horses at Grandma's house and fed kittens with little bottles. Allen is living proof that some people just don't get it. When we e got Bella, he told me that he never understood why people got so upset when they had to put a dog down. But, then along came Bella, and the thought of that day in the future when we have to say goodbye is a little heartbreaking. Dogs are always there to curl up with you on the couch, even when you just yelled at them for eating your glasses. They love unconditionally, and I can't imagine not having a dog in my life.

4. "For it is in giving that we receive." (Sir Francis of Assissi) My mom taught us to give. Give of our time and talents and ourselves. We learned that the cost of a gift isn't what matters. The purpose is to spend time thinking of someone other than ourself. I'm always more excited to see someone open a gift I've found that I thought was perfect for them than I am to receive a gift myself. Giving is one of my favorite things to do.

3. Music is therapeutic. There is always music in my mom's home. Someone's playing the piano or singing or listening to music. I've loved more than one Christmas or summer vacation when all we did was listen to tunes and build puzzles all day long. I've spent hours wandering through CD stores spending money on therapy. My mom always said, it costs less than a shrink and does more good for the soul.

2. Traditions are important. I love traditions. For every wedding, we make and tie a quilt and there are m&ms and little snacks on the quilt as we tie and sing and talk and laugh. Every Thanksgiving and Christmas, we visit all the grandmas, not just one, and those are days of family as a result, which makes them all the better. We always had Easter dresses and Christmas dresses and I always felt like a princess in my new duds.

1. Family is forever. When my parents decided we should move from Kearns the first time, I was devastated. My best friend lived across the street, and I didn't like change. We didn't end up moving that time, but when we did, it was okay.. For one, I had a car and could get back to the old stomping grounds, but more so because I'd realized that what she told me after that first time was true, that someday those siblings were going to be my best friends. Right before I left for college, I sat on the living room floor playing Pictionary with the fam, and I remember wishing things could stay just like that forever. Of course they didn't, and our family has grown, but we've also grown closer, and I'm glad things didn't stay the same as they were 13 years ago because they're even better now. There are no people I'd rather spend time with than the family my mom raised. She raised us to choose spouses who are respectful and responsible and well-rounded wonderful people, and they simply enrich our already wonderful family.

I'm so thankful for my wonderful mother (who was the meanest mother) and all the important lessons she's taught me. And, for the wonderful mother-in-law who welcomed me into her family and raised a mischievous little boy to be a wonderful man who I was lucky enough to meet and fall in love with. And, for the Grandmothers who loved me and taught me and spoiled me and worried about me. The line of wonderful women who have influenced my life goes on and on and to all of them I wish, Happy Mother's Day!

Philanthropic Thinking

2011-05-03T20:43:00.001-06:00

This post is somewhat stream of consciousness and will hopefully make sense at the end./span>

Last week I was invited to attend the Catholic Community Center Dream Builder Breakfast. As I sat there with my boss looking at the very diverse crowd in the room, it hit me that, it's all about love. Those people were all there because they realized that there's a need in the community and they want to help fill it in whatever small way they can. Regardless of which church we affiliate with, or what we believe, it's just all about taking care of one another and helping each other through this insane thing we call life. One of my favorite quotes has been swirling in my mind ever since: "Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." It's attributed to multiple people, but probably came out of Plato's mouth.

No, this isn't the first time such thoughts have found their track through my thoughts. But, lately I've been a grouch. I've been mad about everything and anything I can find to be mad about. So, I figure that there was a reason I was at a breakfast I never would have otherwise attended. I've found myself being a little more tolerant and patient with others since then, and I've been less grouchy. My grandmother once told me that she tried to do some small act of service for my grandpa every single day. And, each time she served him, she found that she loved him a little bit more. It's ringing true in my world on multiple levels.

This past weekend, we all know what the big headline was. I must say, I found myself glad. I thought for a fleeting second that perhaps we'd put ourselves in some peril by making angry the associates of Osama Bin Laden, but really, the world is probably a better place that he's no longer in it.

Then the Facebook debate began. Friends with statements like these popped up in my news feed:

"I will mourn the loss of thousands of precious lives, but I will not rejoice in the death of one, not even an enemy. Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that." --Martin Luther King, Jr

"An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind and it takes more strength and faith to be kind." --Ghandi

While I like both statements, and I think they're both valid and quotes I'll keep in my archives, I found this old statement rolling through my mind: "It is better that one man should perish than that a nation dwindle and perish in unbelief." Don't you think that lightness that will drive out the darkness in the form of better ideas and knowledge now that the leader of the worst terrorist group in the world is gone. Maybe not immediately, but hopefully we're one step closer. And, really, it's not an eye for an eye, it's thousands of eyes for a pair.

While I see the point, that celebrating someone's demise, especially such a violent one is a bit morbid, I find nothing wrong in this event uniting our country once again. We need to do more working together, more being gentle and kind to each other. And, how does the moment, that rival fans at the Mets @ Phillies game begin chanting USA as people spread the news through the stands via cell phones not send chills running up the spine of any American who loves this country and all the things that it stands for?

A Funny

2011-03-26T15:27:00.001-06:00

The other day, Bella and Allen took a walk at the Jordan River Parkway. Allen has been working with Bella on the "woah" command. When she scents a bird, she's supposed to stop, let Allen flush the bird, shoot it, and then she can go round up the dead bird. She wants to flush the bird herself and then try to catch it, live.

So, at the parkway, Allen and Bella came across some of these:

She pointed at one, and Allen said "Woah."

She stopped, and Allen started to walk in front of her to flush the bird. Bella realized what was going on, and wanted the bird for herself, so she charged at the goose, who stood up like this (only more angrily):

and started honking and beating it's wings, hissing at Bella.

Allen said Bella's eyes were huge with fear as she ran as fast as her long legs could carry her, her butt low to the ground to get away from the bird that fought back.

Oh You

2011-03-18T10:58:00.001-06:00

I know, you're feeling neglected. Left out of the loop. But, rest assured, the loop is not that exciting. It's filled with ranting and raving about the ups and downs of my work-a-day existence. It's filled with evenings that can muster only ironing for the coming day and flopping down on the couch. That old loop has even been filled this week with headaches, sore throat, stuffy nose and goopy cold filled eyes.

See, not exciting. Not even remotely fun. So, don't feel jilted. Don't be sad. Once life bounces back (and, it's got to, right?) you'll find yourself right back in your number one position of in the know.

Until then, a good dose of Mucinex, water and March Madness have a seat saved for me on the couch...and Bella thinks she should go outside and frolic in the sunshine.

We're Alive

2011-02-27T14:05:00.002-07:00

We've made it through the two months of the year I hate most. I find myself having zero motivation in January and February, so, we don't do much.

Allen and Bella went hunting a bunch of times with Freddie, Travis, Gracy and Waylon.

I've worked, worked and worked some more. As long as they're going to pay overtime, I'm going to take it.

But, as sunny days come around, I'm finding more motivation. I have some projects out there I'm finding myself wanting to finish, and I'm ready for camping season to come around. It wasn't a great winter, I only got to snowboard once, but there may be another day or two to head up to the resorts before all is said and done. Either way, I'm ready for campfires, s'mores, reading in camp chairs, hikes and fun in the sun.

Eulogy

2011-02-19T22:55:00.002-07:00

There's a club that I belong to. It's a friendly little group, a tight knit one that has a deep connection between it's members, even though some of us have never met. It's one that we don't like to accept new members into. Because, when you're a member of the club, it means you've been told the wretched news that you have cancer, and we'd rather it didn't keep growing. It creates this unspoken understanding between it's members. It means you've endured poking and prodding and hair loss and nausea and indescribable ickiness.

We lose members of our club all the time, but this weekend, I lost a member of the club who was tied so tightly to my heartstrings. My dear Aunt Suzanne finally escaped the knots cancer had tied around her so tightly. I feel such relief for her, but such an ache for the loss those of us who love her have suffered.

Rossiter Worthington Raymond said, "Life is eternal, and love is immortal, and death is only a horizon; and a horizon is nothing save the limit of our sight." I'm so thankful for my knowledge of that concept. For the thought that just beyond the moon she's sitting laughing with my Grandpa Bailey today. It's made me smile and brought me some happy tears over the past few days as I've imagined that reunion.

She was a beautiful soul who always had a smile and a hug to share. There are little moments just between the two of us I'll treasure in the corners of my heart. And, there are memories--of camping trips with her big brimmed hat, freezing evenings on Grandpa's boat, beloved Christmas gifts of big cousin slumber parties at her house, pizza after my first dose of chemo, and smiles when we noticed that so many were wearing red at Grandpa's funeral--that will always bring a smile to my face when I think of Suzanne. Dark auburn hair, artichoke dip and egg nog will always bring thoughts of her.

Someone screwed up. Cancer should have been a four-letter word. But, while it's miserable and horrible and every bad word you can think of, "Cancer is so limited. It cannot cripple love. It cannot shatter hope. It cannot corrode faith. It cannot take away peace. It cannot destroy confidence. It cannot kill friendship. It cannot suppress memories. It cannot silence courage. It cannot invade the soul. It cannot conquer the spirit." Suzanne didn't lose a courageous battle, she was given relief from it. These words all come to mind when I think of her: love, hope, faith, peace, confidence, friendship, memories, courage, soul and spirit; Suzanne embodies all of those, even still, and I'm so thankful that I am blessed to call her aunt and friend.

Give Said the Little Stream

2011-01-28T19:35:00.000-07:00

One year and 3 weeks ago, I joined the blog giveaway game.

One year and 3 weeks later, my gifts are still not finished let alone given.

But, for those of you who played along, don't worry, I do have something in mind. I just need a Saturday or two with no work to get them done. (Yes, I started working Saturdays again in all the insanity of work. And, in a moment of insanity, I volunteered to work like every Saturday...time and a half sounded good...I'm waiting for payday when it sounds good again.)

For the Love of the Game

2011-01-22T19:27:00.002-07:00

As the Super Bowl quickly approaches, I'm cheering for the football team from New York because it's Allen's team, and, well, my team was no where near in the running.

This story (ignore the newscasters jabbering at the top, just read the story below) makes me want to cheer for them all the more. I remember when Dennis Byrd got hurt, and I bought the book about his resilience and recovery, and still have it in a box somewhere.

I love inspirational honorary captains, and athletes realizing how lucky they are to play a game they love for a living. I love these kinds of moments in sports. And, although it started out with a scary moment when Dennis Byrd was strapped to a backboard and carted off the football field, it's ending with some heart touching character building of trash talking smart alec players. (If you don't know about the Jets and their trash talk, let's just say it starts with the coach and trickles right down through most of the guys.)

So, I hope that the Jets win on Sunday, and give Byrd one of those AFC Champion hats, and then, come the first Sunday in February, if they win it all, I hope that number 90 is among the guys on the field celebrating and is fitted for a ring. That he gets a taste of that moment that he and all those athletes have been dreaming of since they first strapped on a helmet and put on that peewee jersey; even though for Byrd, in an instant as he came around the end to sack Dennis Kreig, it had seemed that any chance of experiencing that moment had been shattered with his C-5 vertebrae.

There's inspiration in sports, and it's just one of the reasons I love the game.

2010 Favorites

2011-01-01T19:35:00.000-07:00

**Double post day, scroll down to read about Christmas. :)*

Things I fell in love with in 2010:

This song that sums up why I love Country Music.

This show that makes me smile giddily every single week, no matter how grouchy I was when it started. (Except the Brittany Spears episode. That one sucked.)

These guys recaptured my heart with a new album (plus a Christmas EP)...

...And a rockin' concert with this guy who danced and sang his way back into my heart:

I learned to do this and was immediately addicted to that white powder:

Watching these two become best friends:

This adorable new little one:

An adorable newly engaged couple whose 2011 wedding I so happily anticipate, and who I need to take some pictures of. Because, really, they're super cute.

And, I was reminded how much I love spending time with the people I love the most. Those who make me laugh, have my back and put up with me at my worst as well as my best. Those are the people I couldn't do without in my life and I'm thankful to have them this year and always. "Through the years we all will be together, if the fates allow."

Here's hoping 2011 is even better than the best moments in 2010 (especially the last two months, let's definitely top those).

May this new year bring all you're wishing it will your way with good health, much love, and great prosperity. May we realize the things we're doing to hold ourselves back and let them go, forgive the little things that really don't matter and enjoy and treasure the people who want nothing but the very best for us, even if they're not the people we expected them to be. May we remember to "Be kind to one another, everyone is fighting a hard battle."

Love, jenn

May the Merry Bells Keep Ringing

2011-01-01T19:03:00.001-07:00

There was a dark cloud that blew in from Texas round about the first of November to hang out over my holidays, ordered up by a four-letter word from Washington, D.C.. It parked itself in front of my sunshiney Christmas spirit, and I was feeling grinchy.

But, somehow as the big day drew near, I managed to find some sunshine peeking through the cracks. And, now I wish the holiday would last a little longer because I'm relishing that Christmasy feeling that came around a little late this year. I even told Allen today that we should think about celebrating Twelfth Night so we can make it last a little longer. I was only half serious, but now we're seriously considering starting the new tradition for next year.

Ultimately, we had a very Merry Christmas this year, and spent it with our favorite people. We're so thankful for our family and for the wonderful gifts they shared with us, and for the opportunity we have to give back to them as we celebrate our love for one another.

To My Partner in Crime

2010-12-27T21:07:00.000-07:00

To the boy who sleeps beside me,

Brings home the bacon (and birds and someday hopefully elk),

and takes me on crazy fun adventures,

Happy Birthday!

I couldn't image being on this crazy ride with anyone else.

Simply the Best

2010-12-22T18:35:00.000-07:00

To the best Mom;

Grandma who three little ones adore;

Teacher whose students wish she was their mom;

Happy Birthday!

You are simply the best.

'Twas a week before Christmas

2010-12-19T15:33:00.002-07:00

When a new sister arrived
all bundled up in a nice
Christmas stocking.

She grew up to be patient and selfless and oh so talented.

She can blow angelic harmonies through a flute,

and is a wonderful mom to two sweet red headed girls.

I'm lucky to call her sister and friend.

Hope your day was oh so happy, Sarah!

A Day Late

2010-12-12T09:10:00.000-07:00

Two years and a little bit ago,

this pretty girl joined our family.

She's quick on her feet

(which I'm totally jealous of),

so, so creative

and a fantastic addition to our family.

Hope your birthday yesterday was the best yet.

Happy Birthday, Amy!

Belated Wishes

2010-12-11T12:32:00.000-07:00

Twenty-Three years ago

(and five days, I'm a little behind)

this little girl came into my life.

She quickly grew up to be

this beautiful girl and

one of my very best friends.

And then, she met this nice boy

who always makes her face look like this

And, who shares her birthday.

Happy Birthday, Jason and Trish!

Hope you had a great day!

Dear Christmas:

2010-12-01T17:32:00.001-07:00

Yesterday as I was walking into my office I saw this on the wall of one of the other cubicles:

Sadly, Charlie Brown was not there, just the tree. But, my heart sank. I thought. "Sad. That's how I feel." Sigh.

I'm feeling a little bit like this lately:

And I don't like it one bit. Uh-uh. Not at all.

Please send this part of Christmas soon. I miss it and can't wait for it's arrival.

I'd really like it asap, please.

Thanks,

Love,

Your biggest fan,

jenn

Snapshots of Gratitude: Twenty-Five Letters Before...

2010-11-25T09:07:00.000-07:00

...last the best of all the game. The letter Z has taken on new meaning since a crisp November day four years ago today. This little bundle of joy appeared on the scene and I've never had so much fun as I have since he made me an aunt.

Happy Birthday to the boy who cracks me up, makes me smile, makes me so proud when he does something so clever I can hardly believe it, who loves Halloween, loves playing with Mom and Dad, breaks my heart with his big crocodile tears and sad boy face; the boy whose Aunt Jenn would do just about anything for him, (especially sneaking candy or a show when Mom and Dad say no, shh).

Happy Birthday, Zackary.

I hope you have a very happy day. I can't believe how fast you're growing up.

I'm so, so thankful for you.

Love, Aunt Jenn

Snapshots of Gratitude: Four and Twenty Blackbirds

2010-11-25T08:45:00.000-07:00

If I'd really been on top of things like I'd planned, there'd be a picture from back in the day scanned in of my dad reading to me. I'm so thankful he read to me. Most every night before bed he'd read me a book; or two; or three. I couldn't get enough. And, I'm so thankful he showed me what a wonderful thing reading is. What a great escape. I love to curl up with a book and enjoy the talents of so many different authors.

Snapshots of Gratitude: The Year He Turned 23...

2010-11-23T03:28:00.000-07:00

...My dad embarked on one of his biggest adventures. He became a dad to this adorable little thing (though she was a bit smaller at the time).

Then along came these darling additions, one by one.

And, along the way, we weren't always so adorable. But, we were always blessed to have a wonderful dad who taught us about trust, honesty, respect, hard work, and the unconditional love he has for us, among so many other things. There was a look he'd give us down the bench, or looking down from the stand in church that could put us all right back in line. But, I remember that I wasn't so much afraid of making him mad, but of disappointing him. But, I also remember that he told me more than once that we could work through most any mistake, so long as I was up front about it and didn't try to hide the error of my ways.

I'm so thankful for these lessons, and for the crazy things he brought me at a phoned in request during the winter of '03-'04 like chocolate-chocolate cake donuts, or Thermacare heat pads. And, for the many, many times he's looked at my car, and when I stand there not being much help, but trying to keep him company while he works he says, "You don't have to stay out here." And, for his friendship as I've grown up, and his wisdom as I've asked him about job decisions and salary discussions, politics and random technology/hardware/tool/whatever question I'm pondering at the time questions. I'm lucky that I have the best dad around.

I hope you have the happiest of birthdays, Dad!

Snapshots of Gratitude: 22

2010-11-22T22:09:00.000-07:00

Whenever I see that number, I think of one thing. One of my most wonderful blessings. She's a friend and confidant, supporter and teacher, and, I'm so lucky that I get to call her mom.

And, every time I look at this picture I think how thankful I am that she was there, and is here to cook Sunday dinners and watch football games and so much more.

Snapshots of Gratitude: Twenty-First Century

2010-11-22T19:34:00.000-07:00

While somedays I think it might have been cool to live in the Wild Wild West, or back in the days of ladies and lords (only if I got to be a lady or a queen, not a serf), I'm really, really grateful I live in the twenty-first century instead. Because if I lived in any of those other times, I wouldn't have the benefit of all of these things:

Snapshots of Gratitude: 20 inches

2010-11-21T13:12:00.000-07:00

I had something else planned for twenty, but then, I got lucky. We got white. And, I'm very thankful for it and hopeful for more. A white Christmas is the best kind of Christmas.

And, I also got happy freshly painted white walls through the whole condo. They look fantastic. If you want some painting done, I know a really good painter, and he'll give you a good deal.

Snapshots of Gratitude: Nineteen

2010-11-21T12:57:00.000-07:00

I have 19 fantastic cousins plus 3. So happy to have them all and lots of fun memories of Hokey Pokey, Go to Court, squirting water out of the drinking fountain at the park, roller hockey, pool table games and so much more.

And, apparently I need to take more pictures of them.

Snapshots of Gratitude: 18 Fantabulous Years

2010-11-19T22:49:00.001-07:00

For 18 years, I've had the best bff anyone could have ever dreamed up. Yes, I know, I'm so, so lucky. She's funny, and she puts up with me. Sheesh. Through fights about baseball and honor calls; crazy people who crossed our paths along the way, some we even called friends, some who wanted to bust caps in our jaws; lost brakes on freeway ramps; 2am fire alarms in turkey country--one of which I almost killed her over; crazy dreams; crazy crushes; first dates; front porch handshakes; wedding dances; and so many more crazy adventures; I've been so thankful that she's the one who was along for the ride. "Friendship isn't a big thing, it's a million little things." (author unknown) I'm so thankful for the million little things I've experienced with this wonderful girl.

Snapshots of Gratitude: 1776

2010-11-19T22:31:00.000-07:00

I'm sure thankful for this.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

And I'm so thankful to those who defend those rights, and the families who sacrifice so much so that they can do so. So proud to be an American.

Snapshots of Gratitude: I was 16, going on 17

2010-11-17T03:58:00.003-07:00

...when my parents drove me to the edge of the Earth. We got out and walked through a field and they asked me what I thought of building a new home there. I was about to get my drivers' license, so I was fine with it, knowing I was mobile and could leave said edge of Earth to return to civilization.

It's not quite the edge of the Earth any more, and I couldn't be more thankful we went. It meant raking rocks, digging trenches, raking more rocks, driving 40 minutes to school, raking rocks and my own bedroom. I met people whose association I am so thankful to have had in my life.

I lost a championship basketball game by one agonizing point. But I remember more about that game, and that season than most of my other seasons playing ball combined. And, my mom got to be our coach.

Because we lived in Bluffdale, I got a good chunk of driving experience and I'm not daunted by any sort of weather. I just hop in the car and go. Sometimes I kick back and wait for the stressed out drivers in front of me to figure out snow again, but it doesn't bother me.

I'm thankful for leaves from big trees in the front yard for memories like these, and big backyards, and a family room full of the people I love the most. The moments in our home in Bluffdale have been full to the brim and I'm so thankful.

I know the basics about putting in a sprinkling system. I was too small when Dad did the one in Kearns, but we all pitched in and helped and had purple splotched shoes in Bluffdale. And, I'm thankful to know that stuff. Allen and I whipped out the beginnings of his Mom's sprinkling system in a couple of short hours because I knew exactly how to help.

I don't ever want to rake another rock again. I'm not thankful for that part. But, I'm thankful my parents made me help, and that they gave me opportunities like raking rocks to earn things I wanted, but didn't need. Being a hard worker is something I'm proud to say I am.

I'm thankful for Bluffdale. I can't wait for Allen and I to be able to find ourselves a little place out in that neck of the woods (Which I'm also thankful was his idea, not my urging. One day as we drove through the neighborhood to my mom's he just said, out of the blue, "We should live out here." I couldn't have been happier.)

Snapshots of Gratitude: Fifteen Favs

2010-11-16T21:14:00.001-07:00

The formatting for pictures isn't working with this post, so we're skipping the snapshot today.

I'm thankful for colors. Thankful for fall leaves against dark gray winter skies. For jolly reds and abundant greens; for sad blues and cheery yellows. Thank goodness we're not walking around in black and white.
I'm thankful for shoes. That I have shoes that fit. It's long since the time my shoe collection was conversational. Grown up responsibilities and budgets will sadly do that to a girl. But, I'm thankful that even though I don't have 4 pair of black heels, I have shoes to keep my feet dry and warm and they fit properly.
I'm glad to have quilts. I have quilts stitched with love, and quilts I'm in the process of making. I'm thankful to wrap up in them like a hug to keep warm and comforted.
I love clothes. I don't have as many as I used to, but I have enough to keep me covered and presentable.
I'm thankful for TV. I used to be a movie buff. I can't even tell you the last movie I went to in the theatre. Probably The Blind Side.I'm thankful for the shows that have found their way onto our DVR and for the time that Allen and I can sit down together and enjoy 45 minutes of relaxation and entertainment.
I love to bake. I'm thankful for favorite recipes that have been passed down and I've learned to make. I'm thankful my mom let me make a mess of her recipe books and dirty every dish in the house to make cookies that didn't always turn out quite right.
I'm grateful for old movies. I have a collection of Christmas movies in particular from my childhood that I'm itching to get out. They sweep me right back to evenings when darkness fell early and forced us inside when we'd probably have liked to have been outside. Those old classics make my heart smile, and I've even been known to collect an old commercial or two in a YouTube account since once upon a time, we had the movies all recorded on old VHS, commercials included.
I'm grateful for roller skating. My family and I are lucky enough to have created some of the best memories at Classic Skating Rink. Sometimes on skate, sometimes not; sometimes with hockey sticks, sometimes with big slides and air pressured guns. Always with good food, good company and lots of love.
I love to paint. I find that the concentration and smooth, easy strokes are therapeutic and calming. And, I love the cute things I can create for my house. I'm starting to feel the same way about sewing, but I'm not as good at it, so it's not quite as calming as painting, but hopefully someday.
I'm glad to have green grass. Laying on the lawn in the summer time is one of my favorite things to do. I'm thankful to live in a climate where I have grass to lay on and enjoy the smell of.
Laughter really is the best medicine. I've said many times that one of my favorite things to do in the world is laugh. Some of the best times I've ever had have simply been great because of laughter. And, some of the most difficult times I've ever been through have been less daunting because someone broke the ice with a laugh. Where would we be without a few laughs?
I'm thankful for trees. Pine trees wafting Christmasy smells, tall oak trees casting shade, spooky trees against full moon skies. I've loved climbing them, decorating, toilet papering them, sitting in their shade, camping beneath them, and even sitting by fires built with them.
I'm glad that there's ice cream. Somedays ice cream just makes me feel better. And, it's cheaper than retail therapy. Plus, it takes me back to ice cream cones at my Grandma's house, or Snow College, or Hound Dog pounding on tables at Leatherby's in high school. You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream.
I'm thankful for cuddly comfy sweats. I'm thankful for Fridays in junior high and high school when half of us tromped in wearing them, and I'm even more thankful now for days I get to curl up in them. Oh, how I love those days.

I'm thankful for all those things in the song. Raindrops on roses, whiskers on kittens, bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens; brown paper packages tied up with strings....except for the dog biting and the bee stinging. Why exactly are those in the song? Mostly I'm thankful for so many little things that make life enjoyable and worth taking pictures of, and add to the memories I store up on my memory lane.

Snapshots of Gratitude: 14 Years

2010-11-16T17:39:00.001-07:00

A little over a year ago, the whisperings began. Someone wanted a puppy for Christmas. I was reluctant. I mean we live in a tiny little place, but imagining how excited that someone would be to be handed a puppy won out, and Bella joined our little family.

We made what will likely be at least a 14 year commitment, and I’m glad we did. And I feel sad thinking about someday when it ends. I love that she’s there waiting when I get home from work, and that tiny little stub of a tail is wagging back and forth and she can barely contain her excitement long enough for me to set my stuff down and pay attention to her. It’s so nice to have someone so excited to see you.

She makes me absolutely crazy somedays, and thank goodness she has such a cute face so it’s hard to stay mad at her. Other days, I can’t wait to have her curl up in my legs to go to bed. She prevented me from getting anything productive done while Allen was hunting this year, but I was so glad she was there to keep me company, and to growl and bark at all the things that went bump in the night.

I’m thankful that my parents always let us have dogs. I knew what we were getting into by getting a puppy, even though Allen had no idea. And, when I think back over the years, the times we didn’t have a dog, I sure wished we did. They truly are man’s best friend, and I’m thankful to have loved so many of them throughout my life.

Snapshots of Gratitude: Lucky Thirteen

2010-11-13T22:03:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time, on the thirteenth day of November, a pretty little girl was born. She grew up to be the grandmother and great-grandmother to thirteen lucky kids. I am one of the lucky thirteen.

My Grandma couldn't have been drawn up any better if I'd been allowed to list the specifications I'd wanted in a Grandma. She has everything I'd have asked for plus much, much more.

She has a thirst for knowledge and understanding that I envy; she seems to absorb things like a sponge. And, she's always encouraged curiosity and learning in her home. We were always welcome to be involved, to work in the garage with the boys, climb trees, build forts, paint things, read books and more. She paid for years of piano lessons that I am so thankful to have had.

I loved Saturday afternoons on the old red patio under the big shade tree that attacked the house and sadly had to go. I love listening to stories and tales of her journey through life, and her advice is worth much more than two cents to me. She's helped me tame my perfectionist tendencies so they don't drive me mad with frustration, but a deep breath and thoughts of galloping horses help me carry on with my project.

Emails from her every day helped get me through those eight months that are luckily seven years in the past. Her words on paper hold tidbits of wisdom and inspiration. I love to read the words she wrote about my dad and her hopes for him when he was a small child. Did she know that she instilled in him every word she wrote and that he became all she'd hoped and more? Words on paper. There's an art there, one I love, and know it's a love I share with her. One that carries on in Christmas cards, in journal entries, in to do lists and notes jotted on backs of envelopes. But, one that I somedays fear is dying out, and it makes me sad, but glad that she and I understand how wonderful it is.

There are thirteen of us who are so lucky to call her Grandma or Grandma with a great. So lucky to have had Kool-Aid cups of "N-E-S-T-LES, Nestles Makes the Very Best" at the counter, and burnt butter spaghetti, trifle, Thanksgiving feasts, and many other creations from her kitchen. Who have been encouraged and learned so much at her side. I'm so, so thankful that I'm one of the bunch.

Hopefully today was a very happy birthday for that pretty little girl born on that thirteenth day of November. So glad she's such an important part of my fairy tale.

Snapshots of Gratitude: The Dirty Dozen

2010-11-12T23:32:00.001-07:00

When Allen and I got married, I scored an awesome set of in-laws. I joined this family of twelve people I can't imagine not being in my life.

Ed and Marlene are the best parents-in-law this girl could've asked for. They're selfless to a fault. They would do anything for us and anyone else they love. They have welcomed me into their family with open arms and accepted me without hesitation.

Jodi and Bryan are constantly making us laugh. They have this great friend-like relationships with their children that I so admire. I love sitting by Jodi at any family gathering just to laugh at her off hand comments. She's quick on her feet. She's the antithesis of drama queen, which this drama heiress sometimes envies.

Shelly and Dave are always involved. They're always looking out for everyone else, and helping wherever they can. Shelly had been trying for years to get me to join them for Black Friday, and was finally successful last year. What a riot. So glad she kept asking me to come and that I finally did.

Last but not least, the five kids who keep everyone hopping. They're an active bunch,who are luckily all each others' best friends. I love watching them dance, play ball and whatever other crazy thing they're doing.

I'm so thankful for these people who have worried with me and laughed with me. And, who helped make my wonderful husband the person he is. We're so lucky to have such good roots.

Snapshots of Gratitude: The Naturals

2010-11-11T09:17:00.001-07:00

**This post needs pictures added later...**

Continuing with the craps lesson, on the come out (the first roll), a seven or eleven pays out if you've put chips on the pass line. These two numbers are called the naturals. I don't know why. Probably something to do with probability and statistics which I hate. Which is the point. I'm thankful for things I'm a natural at. Statistics and probability aren't on the list.

I'm thankful I'm naturally a good speller, that words roll easily off the pen onto the paper for me. It makes writing and word play enjoyable to me. I'm not as good at word play as some people. But, it's okay. It gives me something to aspire to. I wish I could make words roll around each other and merge into one another in a sweet cacophony like David Hunt in my high school creative writing class, or like Eminem so often does. I don't know if I'll ever get there, but it gives me a goal.

I'm thankful that when I picked up a basketball, I didn't have to work hard to dribble or shoot. That when I picked up the volleyball and hit it, it soared over the net. That I didn't struggle to make the throw to first base. And I suppose I'm thankful for the thing that I wasn't a natural at. That when I smacked the ball with the golf club, luckily I hit the ball, but I sliced it. I can't for the life of me get that stupid little ball to go straight, and by the ninth hole I want to throw my club in the lake with the sixteen balls I've lost in it. But, it made me realize how much I appreciate that the other sports I've loved to play over the years came easily.

I'm so eternally glad that music naturally rooted itself in my heart. That it naturally sneaks its way up and into my voice. And I can pour out emotions in that voice when I have no other way to get them out. I wish I'd been more naturally good at the piano. That I had some attraction to numbers so maybe I'd like to count when I play.

Did I practice all these things? Yes. I've worked hard, but it was easier because I loved them. And practice just enhanced my natural abilities.

I've had professors (back when I was an ess major taking classes like motor behavior and psychology and...) tell us it's all bull. Maybe they're right. Maybe life shapes you to be the way you are. In a drastically toned down version, most little girls are wrapped in pink blankets and coddled and cooed at. Most girls don't like sports. Little boys are wrapped in blue and a mitt is put in their bassinet with them as grandpa slaps everyone on the shoulder. Boys love sports. Well, maybe the fact that mom and I watched the NCAA tournament while I was coddled in said pink blanket, and, the fact that we sang in the car everywhere we went gave me an advantage in music and sports. And, maybe that spider incident on the stairs in my infancy is to blame for my arachnophobia. I don't know what's true, and the argument of nurture vs nature is going to rage on until God clears it up. Whichever way He works to bless us with talents, I'm thankful for it. I'm thankful for the things he blessed me to be a natural at.

Snapshots of Gratitude: A Decade

2010-11-10T18:49:00.000-07:00

A decade ago, I spent about 30 days playing and showing little interest in how I was going to pay for the classes I was registered for at the University of Utah. Then, my dad came home and handed me a job application. I filled it out, interviewed, and Beehive ruined my summer.

Ten years later, I'm still hanging around that joint. I've met some really great people who I've had some great adventures with. Some of them will be lifelong friends and resources I can turn to. They've bent over backwards to take care of me through cancer and other crises. I've had my pick of days I wanted for vacation and have been really lucky to be employed by such a great company for all these years.

I finally went back and finished that degree I was about to start when I started at Beehive, thanks to the urging of Jan and Beehive's flexibility. She's been a great mentor who I would have otherwise not met.

I've learned and grown in the past ten years. I've paid for school, purchased cars, gone on trips, enjoyed concerts and so much more I couldn't have done without my employment which I'm so thankful for. Even on the days I whine about how I don't want to go to work.

I'm thankful for the past ten years and the person I've become because I've been so blessed to work for such a wonderful company.

Snapshots of Gratitude: Nein

2010-11-10T18:34:00.003-07:00

**I need to scan in some pictures for this post. Maybe this weekend. I have two in particular in mind.

In German, it means no. Looking back, I'm thankful for the times I was told no. No, you can't have those awesome NKOTB sheets or wallpaper. I've found as my TV screen has gotten bigger and bigger, that blessings in disguise often come in the form of nos. They so often come the opposite of the way you think they will and so they're a no to the desires of your heart.

Once upon a time, there were boys along the way who I really wanted to fall in love with and have them love me back. But, the answer was no. And, thank Heaven because along the way I met this one who I did fall madly in love with, and who loves me back, faults, imperfections and all.

I didn't want to go back to Snow College after my first year there. I didn't have the best roommates or the best time down there. But, someone said no to that and I found myself not wanting to leave upon graduation. I got to live with the coolest girls who I had the time of my life with, and the education part was pretty good too.

I really didn't want a job the summer between Snow College and the U of U, and I filled out some applications to humor my dad. How was I going to pay for those classes I was registered for at the U? No clue. But, I was having so much fun. Then, someone went and gave me a job and ruined my fun, but I've met some great people and had some really great adventures. More on that no tomorrow.

My parents sometimes didn't necessarily say no. Sometimes they said I had to pay half. Or I had to earn my way to an item or an event. I valued those things I worked for so much more than the things I just got.

But, they did say no when it came to going outside without doing our chores. And, I'm so grateful. I can do dishes, laundry, cook more than Rice-A-Roni (remember those crappy Snow roommates? They lived on burnt Rice-A-Roni, ick), vacuum, dust and take care of myself and my home and my family. So thankful they persisted even when it would have been so much easier for them just to do it themselves.

I really do look back on some unanswered prayers and think how desperately I wanted them to be answered my way. I knew what was going to make me happy. But, I'd have only been happy for a minute. Mom and Dad always tell us "Never give up what you want most for what you want at the moment." I'm so thankful that Heavenly Father has the understanding and strength to tell me no, realizing that something else even better is coming and will make me even more happy than I could imagine. In meager comparison, I think about how hard it is for me to tell these two monkeys no. I just want to always make them happy. But luckily, someone up there deals with the tears and anger now for my big smiles and happiness later. So thankful for the full big picture.

Snapshots of Gratitude: The Great Eight

2010-11-08T09:18:00.000-07:00

I am a lucky soul. I am an aunt eight times over, and I love it! One of the funnest things I have ever done!

Madison

Spencer

Riley

Zackary

Haylie

Reese

Magdelena

Phoebe

Snapshots of Gratitude: Seven Out

2010-11-07T12:43:00.004-07:00

In craps if you roll a seven on the first roll, it's good news. Mostly everyone gets paid. If you roll a bunch of other numbers and then roll a seven, it's bad. Crappy seven, or seven out they say and all the chips laying on the table get pulled into the house's pot. Boo.

In this story, seven out is a good phrase. The craps rolls are past. For seven years, Dr. Glenn has held up her side of the agreement and only given me good news at my appointments.

I'm not going to say I'm thankful for cancer, because I'm sure not. It sucks. I hate that people I love are battling it or know someone they love who is. Someone screwed up and made it a six-letter word when it really should have been of the four-letter variety. I was lucky with few side effects, and a I wouldn't wish what I went through on anyone, worst enemy included.

But, I am thankful for things I learned while battling it. I learned that people are mostly good. At the time of my diagnosis, I was a little mistrusting of people after the dishonesty I'd seen at work. A wonderful support group that was larger than I'd have ever imagined changed that, and I still get ripples of it today, seven and a half years later. I learned just how lucky I am to have really great friends, and who my real ones are. I didn't learn that I have the best family, because I already knew, but they just proved it again and again.

I'm grateful now for a clean bill of health, and for health insurance. I'd probably still be digging my way out of a hole were it not for health insurance, and my generous parents and some secret friends. I'm thankful for skilled doctors who have studied more than I'd ever want to, and who had a plan of attack ready to go. I know that on that first introduction to Dr. Glenn, her straight forward, matter of fact strategic approach was overwhelming, but I think after I thought about it, it made everything doable. I knew what we were going to do, the statistics they had about its practice in the past, and I was ready to kick its ass.

I'm thankful for hours of brainless TV and lots of laughter that helped me get through it, and a cruise right smack at the halfway point. For cucumber facials, shocking bald comments and smuggled Frosties. For wigs for when I felt up to it and hats, hats and more hats when I didn't which was the more frequent of the two. I'm thankful for the fact that it happened in the fall and winter so I could cuddle in blankets, so we could all look forward to spring. And, I'm thankful that we're seven years out.

Snapshots of Gratitude: Six Years from the Sixth Month

2010-11-06T09:47:00.001-06:00

Six years ago in the sixth month, I met this boy. Need I say more?

A picture is worth a thousand words.

Snapshots of Gratitude: The Fabulous Five

2010-11-06T09:44:00.001-06:00

Growing up, when I didn't want to play with my siblings, my mom had a very predictable answer to our arguing and unkindness. After we sat together and said three nice things about each other, we'd hear, "Someday you're going to be each others' best friend." No way I'd think as I rolled my eyes. And, if you ask me today about my best friends, I'll tell you they're my siblings without hesitation.

I know every one of them has a story about me being a jerk, and apparently I was a huge jerk to Sarah because she has a bunch, but it made them tougher, right? They should thank me. But, we all also have some really good stories of crazy adventures, Sundays playing Pictionary and hours with Nintendo controls in our hands. They are the people I want to hang out with, and share good news with. And, they're they support group I want around when something goes wrong.

And, they've married some really cool cats. My brothers in-law let us girls hang out an awful lot, even when the words shopping and JoAnns are uttered. And, my sister-in-law Amy keeps us in fantastic desserts and has taught us some crafty little secrets along the way. I only wish she wasn't so fabulous that everyone wants to hang out with her so she could hang out with us a little more. These siblings in-law are also siblings in-love, and I am thankful that they joined our family and make the most important people in my life so very happy.

I didn't get to choose these people and their spot in my life (I don't think, if I did, I did a super job). But, I do get to choose that they're my friends. I know so many people who only see their siblings for obligatory holidays and then it's rife with drama and no one has any fun. I'm eternally grateful that the choice is so easy for me, and that I wouldn't have it any other way.

Snapshots of Gratitude: Four Seasons

2010-11-06T09:23:00.000-06:00

People say Utah doesn't truly have four seasons, and some years, we definitely don't. But, in the 30 years I've lived and grown up here, I've come to love the four seasons we supposedly don't have.

In the springtime as the sun starts to shine a little more brightly and the colors jump out vividly to stretch their leg, I find myself wanting to skip through the streets. I love digging in the dirt and getting flowers and vegetables in the ground. I love sitting out in the sunshine, and I even like those April showers.

Then, just as I'm tiring of the drizzly rain, the sun turns up the heat and stretches out its rays as we move into sumer. The only escape is to head up the canyon or hit the pool. I love camping and am so grateful there are so many opportunities for it and hiking and so many other things so close to the beautiful valley I love to call home. Fireworks and watermelon, thunderstorms and lightening, ice cream on the lawn on warm summer evenings, tank tops and flip flops, summer concerts, I love the summer.

But, just as I think I'm going to cook, a crisp coolness shows up in the nights and slowly starts creeping its way into the days. The trees change into beautifully rich colored dresses. Football weather has me ready to smell the grass and listen to the hits. Pumpkins and trick or treaters sweep through bringing Thanksgiving closely behind them.

And then, on flurries and north winds winter swirls in with my favorite time of the year. I anticipate a white Christmas every year with the magic of crystalized tree branches, glowing Christmas lights and me walking around thinking, "This place always looked a little better in white." (Sugarland) And, I can't wait to hit the slopes. I got my first taste of snowboarding last year, and one of Solitude's slogans is exactly right, "It's white, it's addicting and it's totally legal."

I'm thankful for the beautiful place I live and Mother Nature's costume changes all year long. I happily anticipate each one and couldn't imagine throwing one out of the mix.

Addition to Three-Quarter Time

2010-11-05T13:53:00.002-06:00

Another line I love that's perfect for the music post: "Some say it's too country, some say it's too rock 'n' roll. But it's just good music if you can feel it in your soul." (Tim McGraw)

I'll try to find some old choir snapshots to add too...it's on the docket for the weekend.

Snapshots of Gratitude: Three-Quarter Time

2010-11-04T18:01:00.003-06:00

This line has found its way to a high spot on the list of my favorite song lyrics: “...and this song of mine, in three-quarter time wishes you and yours, the same thing too…” I have oodles of lines I love. Some explicably, some less so, but they all pull the tiniest heart strings and fibers of my being for one reason or another.

I’ve been singing a song my entire life. As Ray Charles said, “I was born with music inside me.” And, it spouts its way up and out of my heart and soul through that voice box and out into the world to a tune.

Music has provided an emotional outlet for me as long as I can remember. I latch onto songs because they strike an emotional match inside me, and rekindle the flame every time I replay them. It’s hard to explain in a way that really captures the feeling that swells inside me when I hear a really great song.

In The Forgotten Carols, a tiny angel is dying to sing in the angelic chorus that proclaims the holy birth. When the grand chorus master declines to offer him an invitation, I get chills. “It’s not fair!” he pleads. “If you could just hear what’s in my heart, you’d let me sing.” Exactly I think, every time. It turns out the angel is Handel and his heart is beating out Joy to the World and The Messiah. The enormity of those songs and the idea of how many hundreds of people and choirs have performed them over the years begins to touch on the immensity of what I feel with a good song.

Music has brought great opportunities in my life. I sang at homecomings and farewells for my uncles as a tot (maybe Zack or Lena’s age which boggles my mind). I learned songs I still sing and got to know Bob Banks, Kaye Madsen and Bonnie Moore on different levels than most students as a choir member at Silver Hills. I’ve performed at Abravanel Hall, the little chapel on Temple Square and in The Huntsman Center.

I learned oodles about music from Mark Pierce at Hunter High School. I got to take my first trip to Disneyland and see Hollywood and San Diego because I was a member of the choir. Mr. Pierce also ruined me for singing in anything less than a top notch group because he showed us how fun it is to sing in one.

I had the time of my life sitting in the Grand Ole Opry listening to country music. I stood on that historic circle and sang the words to Happy Birthday and just wanted to melt. My little country heart was thrilled.

I’ve sung duets with some of my favorite people in the whole world. Nothing lifts my spirits quite like a good harmony, especially if I’m part of the pieces making it up.

While I don’t play the piano nearly as well as Ve, I have no hesitation to sit down an accompany someone to sing the tune in their heart. I’m so thankful my Grandma Hansen was willing to pay for my piano lessons for all those years.

Music has given me so much. Been the refuge I’ve sought in the tough times and the celebration I’ve relished in during the good. I’m immensely thankful for it and the fact that I’ve had so much good exposure to it all my life.

Snapshots of Gratitude: SECONDS

2010-11-03T23:42:00.000-06:00

Weeks ago, I wrote out the calendar for my Snapshot Stroll of Gratitude. Yesterday I peeked at what number two was. Seconds. Hmm. Seconds? I’d run into this problem before. When writing notes in college I’d come across some Jenn created shorthand and wonder what the heck that meant. Seconds. No note to jog my memory. Nothing. So, I wondered about it all day yesterday, and all this morning. Seconds. I can’t come up with whatever my brilliant thought was, but I have come up with some seconds I’m grateful for.

This year, I’m grateful for a SECOND playoff game. This year’s Riverton team is setting new records and expectations for the future. They truly have been a family. They are more respectful and mature than teams in years past. It’s been fun to watch, and I’ve never wanted another Riverton team in my 11 years with the team to succeed as much as I want these boys to.

I’m thankful that I can have SECONDS. Some people wish for firsts and I can happily plop a scoop of seconds onto my plate at most every meal I sit down to. While I surely don’t have it all, I do have all I need.

I have some really cool SECOND cousins. I don’t get to see them often these days, but in trips down memory lane, they’re always there. We’ve had some killer good times skating and singing. (And, I do have some pictures that I should put here, but this hasn't been the best of days, and I need to do some scanning.)

I’m glad there are SECOND chances. I know that I’m far from perfect. I’m glad that when I mess up, I can have a second crack at things. And, I’m glad that I can find it in my heart to give others a second chance. I know some people who are so jaded that they think the worst of people and wouldn’t give anyone a second chance for anything. I’m thankful I don’t walk through life like that. It must be pretty miserable not to find any good in the people you’re sharing the world with. I believe that people are inherently good, and I’m so happy I do.

Finally, I’m so thankful for those SECONDS I don’t even know about. The seconds that something delays me and without my knowing it, I avoid a car accident because I was running a few seconds late. Those seconds I stop and chat with my mom just before I leave in her driveway; the seconds I stop and see what one of the kids wants to show me. Somehow those things that only take a few seconds fill up my kindling sack and later in the week they keep my fire going and I don’t take note of that often enough.

So many seconds are wasted in the day to day, when just a few make such a difference. I’m going to strive to be mindful of what I do with all my SECONDS.

Snapshots of Gratitude: Number One

2010-11-02T18:06:00.014-06:00

I am lucky enough to be number one; the number one grandchild of these two wonderful people. I’ve had an arm put around my shoulders and the words “This is our number one grandbaby Jennifer” uttered in my presence around strangers more times than I could ever begin to think of counting.

I have the best grandparents there are, and these two are part of that elite group. I watched them love each other, squabble at each other, help each other, worry about each other, work together, work apart and try together to raise their kids and grandkids to be the very best they could be, always loving one another. When things get rocky on my road, I always know I can stop by their house. Even if they don’t know things are rocky for me, I’ve never left there not feeling good about me and sometimes that’s all you need.

I got lectures from him about everything from bangs to earrings to clothes to boys, and looking back at embarrassing pictures, and all my adventures with boys, he was always right. He was wiser than even he knew. Everyone was his Pardner or Pal; Doll or Lover Lois. He always had pink gum in his pocket and a song in his heart. He didn’t hold up his end of the bargain though. He was supposed to stick around for my wedding (the one I was never going to have so he’d never go and die on us—a loophole I purposely placed in said bargain). But, I found this wonderful boy to marry who has so many mannerisms and characteristics and sayings that remind me of him and let me know he’s still around. And, he was at my wedding. I knew it standing there listening to his good friend Lee. I guess he found his own loophole in the bargain.

She has made me numerous dresses, shirts, pajama sets and pairs of pants. She’s made me Swedish brunches, Thanksgiving dinners, chocolate rolls and dill pickles. She’s always preaching kindness and she’s always looking out for others. She always has candy by the doorway and an ice cream cone in the kitchen. She taught me to do some act of service for my husband every day. And, on days when all I want to do is grizzle about the socks on the floor or the shoes I’ve tripped over for the third time, I remember this and I just love him more. Grandpa never would have made it without her.

So very grateful that this Grandma and Grandpa are mine.

Snapshots of Gratitude

2010-11-02T09:01:00.001-06:00

I'm doing the Thanksgiving thing again. Because it was fun. And it made me more thankful all year long, especially when I wasn't feeling so grateful and I could go back and read November's daily eulogies.

I know I'm a day behind. But, you'll notice in the title that there are going to be snapshots, and I wasn't quite prepared. November sneaked up on me a little bit. The words are ready, just have to get the snapshots in there. Stay tuned.

I love this time of year. :)

This is Halloween

2010-10-31T13:11:00.003-06:00

We kicked off the weekend with a big football win.

We tried to make mini-pumpkin cakes

Frosting them proved to be...

difficult at best.

So, we eventually made a big one.

We gathered the troops and some pumpkins.

We dug for seeds...

and slimy...

...stringy...

...pumpkin guts.

Someone doesn't like slimy stuff.

Phoebe hung out with Grandma.

Zack came out of hiding to make the silly pumpkin face.

Aunt Jenn cut out spiders.

And a spooky gathering waited in the rain for the trick-or-treaters who were scared away by the drizzly day.

The costume part? Well, it was kind of a bust with the trick-or-treating part. I had a cute, fun, easy Mrs. Claus outfit all put together, Zack was a robot and Lena was Snow White. But, that lasted all of five minutes. Their Mom's got some pictures and they went and trick-or-treated at the Great Grandmas'.

Allen and Bella went on a ghost and phantom hunt at Wasatch Wing and Clay bird club. They had a blast. They didn't find the phantom or the ghost, but they found some birds that earned them some money at Sportsman's Warehouse and a free hat. And, Bella did retrieve the birds, so they had a good day.

Allen and I talked about how we remember trick-or-treating in crappy weather, good weather, snow, slush, rain, cold, wind, whatever. We earned our candy, man. Yesterday there was a little rain and like 2 trick-or-treaters. Sheesh. Kids these days.

I could get really into Halloween and have a good time with it, but I think I need a house for hosting a big party and doing killer decorating. For now, I'm just excited to get on with THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR!! And, I really hope this past week was a sign that it's going to be white.

Sweater Queen

2010-10-25T20:29:00.000-06:00

The evening after the first snow of the season, the Sweater Queen happily hummed as she packed away all her capris and short sleeved shirts and pulled out her treasured cable knits and fuzzy mohair sweaters. As she finished stacking them neatly in her closet, she came to a sad rememberance. Last winter was not so kind in the metabolism department as 30 loomed on the doorstep, or the laundry shrinking pretty wools department. She looked sadly upon her warm beloved turtlenecks and the lack of color and thickness and soft cashmere and wished there was a big fat shopping spree waiting for her because she finds that she is in desperate need of some new sweaters (just a size larger than she wore last year). :(

Boo. :(

Fall Follies

2010-10-24T12:36:00.001-06:00

It's been a busy October so far. I've done lots of playing with the kids. They made cookies:

Had a blur of fun at the rink:

And, we started counting down to Christmas at Santa's Workshop (61 days in case you're wondering):

None of the pictures are great because the fearless hunter had the camera for capturing these and I used my phone (which actually has a really good camera, but apparently, people move to much around here for its slow shutter speed):

Still no elk for us. Allen and Tony walked right into the middle of the herd and pushed them out so Travis and everyone around them could get the bulls while Allen watched a bunch of cows run all around him. Maybe next year will be his year.

We've eaten waaaay too much junk food this month, and we haven't even had the big event of tricks and treats yet.