The Groovy Grow's

First Birthday!

2010-10-18T13:31:00.000-07:00

I know it's been awhile since I posted last. I used to be better at blogging but now I do more on FB. But I hope to get back to more blogging.

Jaymee Grow turned 1 on September 2nd of this year. We celebrated her birthday on the 11th at the Bowery of our ward house. We had family and friends come to help us celebrate. Jaymee had a great time walking all over in her walker. We thought that would be the easiest way to keep track of her. Papa Jimmy and Nana Callor came up from Helper just for the birthday and then had to go back and work on remodeling/fixing their rental.

Jaymee loves dogs and animals too. She got two stuff dogs, a cat and a turtle. She got a little stroller for her baby and she loves walking it back and forth in our living room. I know she is on the verge of walking any time. When she decides she will of course. She loves her toys that play music and now she has some to play with in the tub. She graduated from her small tub to the big tub. I think she likes more room to splash around.

She got clothes and books and hugs an kisses from family. She had a great day. I posted some highlights from the party below. I made her a banana cake and it turned out really well. We had a fairy theme going on so lots of different treats to eat.

We love having Jaymee in our family. She is such a sweet girl. She loves to be around people and loves kids of all ages. She is constantly laughing or smiling. People always comment first that she is a happy baby. She loves to watch Little Einsteins and Miss Spider of TV. She loves to read and sing songs. She loves her toys. She loves her daddy. She loves to give hugs and kisses.

She loves making messes when she eats. She is determined to always be climbing the stairs if allowed those moments of freedom. I am so grateful to be her mother. I hope we always have a great relationship with one another. Love you JAMS!

Crashing hard drives, Crawling, talking, yardwork and more!

2010-07-29T10:23:00.000-07:00

We've been pretty busy since I last posted. It seems like spring came and went and now we are halfway through the summer.

One of the saddest episodes of this spring was the fact that my computer hard drive crashed without warning. I lost photos and stories I had written about Jaymee as well as work stuff that had been a long time coming. I need to rewrite her birth story again and I hope I remember everything now. Most of the photos we had on Facebook but some we will never recover. Damn!

The yard is finally starting to take shape. All the perennials my neighbor Amber helped me plant last year when I was pregnant have come up and it looks really nice. I bought some new mulch to put down and the front yard is looking good. Now we just need the grass to turn a little more green.

As for the backyard, we bought about 5 different types of shrubs and planted them alongside our fence. So far they look to be doing well. I planted a few next to the house where our water comes out too. We mowed all the weeds and will start phase II of our work. We need to make the river bed Jason carved out of the dirt smooth and weed free. Then we'll start to put the weed fabric down and start arranging rocks and then it's on to the water feature. I have a goal that at least by the end of October we can enjoy our backyard with the new deck and water feature. We need to decide what type of small rock or medium rock we want to put around the shrubs and to get mulch for the other spots. I promise to post some photos when I can get them onto the computer.

We spent Memorial Day weekend home. We were supposed to go camping with friends and I had even gotten our new tent but alas it did not happen. The weather was very rainy and we didn't want to take Jaymee to the middle of nowhere and not be able to go home if we needed too quickly. I guess it is a good thing we did. All three of us got the stomach flu so we stayed away. Unfortunately it spread to Jason's parents and grandmother. Sorry guys!

In June I went to Camp Hobe'. This was my 8th year. I cannot believe it has been that long. We had so much fun. The FBI came up to do some sessions with the teens on evidence recovery of fingerprints and footprints at a crime scene. Our theme was CSI. We had an inflatables obstacle course, great food, a live band, live comedy group, scuba and much more. This year the teens could earn buttons as they went to the various activities. By the end of the week they were a hot commodity. Everyone wanted one. As I look towards next year and think of how much I missed my daughter I am not sure how much longer I can keep doing it. Next year will most likely be my last.

Jaymee is now 11 months old. It has gone by so quickly. She has been crawling all over the place for a month now. She has gotten really fast at climbing the 4 stairs into our living room from the kitchen. She is also pulling herself up onto anything she can. She wants to put everything into her mouth. She loves dogs. She loves to dance when the music comes on. Her favorite shows to watch are Miss Spider, Imagination Movers, Little Einsteins, Between the Lions and Jane & the Dragon.

Jaymee loves to clap to just about anything. She says "wow" all the time. She can say "mom", "dad", "kitty" and "baby". She is almost saying "doggy". I am so impressed with how quickly she will imitate what you do. She loves to pull out her books and just tell a story. She holds her baby like her mommy holds her. She has a favorite doggy and kitty that she sleeps with and hugs so tight you think their stuffing will come out.

Sleeping on her own is coming along much better now. The crying is only lasting a minute now so hopefully by the end of the week she will be just fine.

Jaymee can be mischievous too. She knows she shouldn't grab the computer cords but she does. I cannot wait until I don't have to give her formula anymore. I guess our next milestones will be her first birthday, walking and potty training. Wish us luck.

Major updates! Boy how time flies!

2010-03-18T21:34:00.000-07:00

Sorry it's been like 5 months since I've posted anything. Our little girl Jaymee isn't so little anymore. At her 6month check-up the 1st of the month she weighed 16lbs 3oz and was 26 inches long. She also has her two front bottom teeth and we think the top ones are not too far away. She has been eating rice cereal since January.

Jason and I have been busy with work. I am now a manager over a few people and have an extra trainer which helps me. Jason will go to the doctor next week and get an appointment to have surgery on his nose. I am so excited for him. He truly needs this. I hope he'll breathe better after this. I got lucky the last two weeks with shingles. Lovely. But I am on the mend.

We look forward to going camping, hiking and traveling this summer. We are going to do a 5k at the elementary school in April. I am so glad it's finally Spring. I think I was getting anxious.

I've got a lot of catching up to do so I thought I would just do that in photos.

6 1/2 Months:

5 Months

4 Months

Christmas Holidays 2009

Thanksgiving Holiday 2009

Blessing Day in November 2009

October Time and Halloween 2009

September- Month 1

Week 5 and Gallbladder surgery

2009-10-07T11:31:00.000-07:00

Just some recent photos of our new little family. Jaymee is now 5 weeks old. Crazy. We cannot imagine our family without her now.

Jaymee is making those cute cooing sounds and smiles more often now. She is gaining weight and growing too. She is so funny because she loves to turn to the right side always. When we try and turn her head to the left side she gets mad. As a result her head is a little misshapen at the moment.

Soon I will have to go back to work and I really wish I could just stay home and be a mom. But we do what we have to do.

I also had my gallbladder removed on the 28th of Sept. It's been a little over a week now and I am so happy. Not having the gallstone attacks is really worth it. Apparently there were 2 stones inside the tube trying to be passed so I was in a lot of pain and having attacks often. Thanks to a good surgeon. Now my life will be much better 'stone-wise'.

Thanks to all our family and friends who have helped out during the surgery and for those who brought us food. It is very much appreciated.

Baby Grow is finally here!

2009-09-18T12:09:00.000-07:00

After 25 1/2 hours from start to finish, Jaymee Grow was born on September 2, 2009 at 10:41pm. She weighed 6lbs 12oz and was 19 2.5in long. We are so excited to have her with us and we love each new day with her. Of course we are still adjusting to feedings, etc. but we could not have asked for a more mellow baby. She sleeps through the night and doesn't really cry unless hungry. She loves to be sung to at night and cuddled. She loves sleeping on mom and dad's chest. She loves having her daddy whistle to her and loves being held in his strong arms. She is already turning on her right side when we put her down on the floor to change her diapers. She has a strong grip and loves to sleep with her hands by her face. She is even holding up her head already too.

We love Jaymee and thank Heavenly Father for the opportunity we have to be her parents. We are going to need His help even more now. Welcome to our family Jaymee!

Reunions, Baby Showers, Belly Shots, Heat and the Countdown!

2009-08-04T08:48:00.000-07:00

Well, another set of adventures has finally wrapped on our end and more are yet to begin. Our July was so packed when I look back on it now. It's crazy.

All Day Birthing Class- July 11, 2009
Jason and I attended a Super Saturday on the U of U campus through prenatal education. It was very informative and we had a great nurse who was our teacher. We learned a lot of what to expect in just about every situation you can think of. I am glad to know what will happen instead of worrying from what I've heard from everyone else. We also got a tour of the U hospital Labor and Delivery rooms, and recovery rooms. Looks like I'll be able to watch my LOTR marathon as we wait for the baby to come. :o) I am going to try and do this without drugs. We'll see how that goes but I am not going to feel like a failure if I have to have an epidural.

Mom comes to visit- July 13, 2009
Finally the day arrived for me to go and pick my mom up from the airport. She flies out every other year for a month or so to visit with her family. I am so glad she does as I have not been able to get to England again since being married. I hope we can travel over there sometime in the next year or so to visit with family and friends. We had a great time together. We went to lunch with a dear friend and her mom and sisters for a girls lunch. She was able to come to one of my doctor's visits and meet Dr. Rose which was great. She got to hear the heartbeat of the baby. It's been hard not to share in this with her as she lives so far away. I miss my mom. We had dinner with dear cousins Lynn, Phillip and their Meghan who live really close. We watched a great movie together. She made us some yummy breakfasts and a great dinner in the crock pot. I always wish her visits were longer. I dropped her off mid-week to her sister Linda and then met up again at the reunion in Price.

Baby Shower #1- July 18, 2009
Today was the hottest day ever. Got up to 100 degrees. Insane. Susie, my awesome neighbor and fellow Cure devotee, put on the best shower ever. The room was so cutely decorated with her daughters toys, etc. Purples and greens and yellows. The games were fun and the food was great. A big shout out to my in-laws and their help with salads and take down. Thanks to Jason for bringing in the fans to help cool us off and set up the big tables. It was so much fun seeing all of my friends and just enjoying the afternoon with them. Everything we got from the shower was so needed and I feel very blessed. Jason was teasing that our daughter can wear a different outfit each day and still not go through all the clothes. :o) But I know she will go through them but most likely 4 or 5 times a day. A highlight was seeing a dear friend Tiffany from 7th grade. We haven't seen each other since 1996 and it was so sweet to meet her little daughter. Love to all who came. Thanks for everything! The only thing we forgot to do was take photos. :o( But the memories are still there.

Baby Shower #2- July 24, 2009
My oldest sister Victoria and my mom put on a great shower with the help of Rik, Jason, cousin Colleen, Terry and Annette. Terry ended up as our photographer for the day and took lots of photos. Thanks Terry. The table decorations were great and Victoria did an excellent job as usual with her presentation. While Jason and I ran to the store to get the drinks we ran into my piano teacher and great friend of my mom's Tama Gordon. It was so good to see her. I invited her to the shower to visit with my mom and come and hang out if she could. I haven't seen her in a long time. We had some family members on my dad's side who were unable to make it but brought gifts by. That was really nice. One of my adopted mom's was able to come, Beth Gotfredson and I just cried and we got caught up on life. I love that family. Wonderful people. My cousins and Aunts came and we had some cute kids who enjoyed playing around and having fun together. My grandmother and Annette's mom were there too. It was a great day all around. A highlight, which I should've known was coming, was that Rik sang to us as he played his guitar. He played 5 songs. The last one was the one he sang to Jason and I at our reception. Move over Wedding Singer it's the Baby Shower Singer!! Thank you Rik. It was wonderful. Once again we felt very blessed. Jason came just in time to help me open presents.

Wheeler Family Reunion- July 24-25, 2009
We had such a good time at our reunion. The Ice Cream social on Friday night is always a blast. Cousin Randy makes some yummy homemade ice cream but I still miss it when Aunt Linda made it. The best raspberry. I was so excited to see my cousin Janeyl and Todd. I look forward to seeing them every time. And Renee's boys are growing up so fast. My Uncle Scott had some photos out for us to look at and they were really cool. I enjoy looking at old family photos. I am glad Grandpa was having a good day and that he came out to the social.

On Saturday we headed up to Price Recreation Canyon and had a great catered lunch. It rained a little but it was okay. The breeze up on the mountains really cooled off the heat. The food and company was wonderful. We took a lot of photos. I hope to post more on here. Jason was excited because he won the fudge that Aunt April made for the auction. I was hoping to win this crocheted baby outfit but my cousin Britni did. She is getting married on the 28th of this month. Congrats! I also found out that my cousin Mindy lives a few blocks away from us. I enjoy having cousins around. Parting is always the hard thing and Jason and I needed to get on the road to get back home. My mom came up the next day to stay with us until we brought her to the airport on Monday.

Breast feeding Class- July 30, 2009
I ventured to this class on my own as Jason had shirts to do. I was excited to have the same nurse as my instructor. I really like her and two couples from our Super Saturday were though so it was like a mini reunion. I never knew there was so much good about breast feeding and I felt happy to be informed. I cannot wait to have this bonding opportunity with my daughter.

The Countdown- 20 more days!
Well... I am sure you don't want me to say anymore as I have rambled on enough. I've been washing baby clothes and getting stuff put away. I should have our suitcase packed by the end of the week so we are ready if she decided to come early. I suspect my next post will not be until she is born. Until then...

Updates: gallstones, camping, etc.

2009-07-15T14:33:00.001-07:00

I am coming to you live from my office at work. I am in our consultation room with my swollen ankles elevated on two chairs as I look outside at green grass and two little chipmunks. I know it has been a long time since I have updated this site. I have not been very diligent in keeping it up. Time seems to be flying by rather fast these days and before I know it the baby will be here.

We've had a great summer so far. My neighbor Amber went flower shopping with me and helped me plant them. I bought a bunch of perennials so the front yard was easier to manage. They are all blossoming rather nicely now. I just need to get some added mulch in there and fill in where some of the pansies just died most likely from over watering. We had so much rain there for a month that the flowers got saturated. I decided I really like the look of snapdragons. They are beautiful.

Our camera sort of died back in February so I haven't been able to take many photos but when we do get a new one or get one borrowed I will post the flowers and other photos.

My mother-in-law gave us a wee little tomato plant which I was grateful for as we don't have the raised beds made for the backyard to do some real gardening this year. I am so excited because we have a tomato growing and the plant itself is just blossoming very quickly. Yummy! I do so love tomato's.

A dear friend of mine called me up the week of the 4th of July and asked me what I would do if I had a big tent and a queen-sized mattress 2 feet off of the ground. Would this entice me to go camping? TOTALLY! I was sad as we couldn't do any REAL hiking this spring/summer and go camping. I wasn't really sure how big I would be at this time. Well, Jason and I went camping with Lynnette/Charlie and Jodie/Aaron and their kids at the Ashley National Forest campground. We had gone last year with them but over the Labor Day weekend. We had a blast. I slept so good. Jason got to go fishing and I don't think he has done that for at least 4 years. It was just so nice to get away. Thanks Lynnette for a super few days. We totally needed it. We made hats and had a parade around the campfire on the 4th of July. On our way home that night we were able to see several shows of fireworks along the freeway. I enjoyed that a lot.

Three weeks ago I had some major abdominal pain and I had Jason take me to the insta-care. The doctor there said she thought it was gallbladder related and wanted to send me to the ER to get checked and make sure the baby was okay. She knew my doctor was at the U of U but she didn't want to risk anything by having us drive 20 minutes. And because I was concerned for the baby and my pain we went to the Davis hospital. Well we should've really just drove to the U. We waited forever just to get into the ER. Jason was great massaging the part of my back that was on fire. As soon as we got in the nurse came to give me an IV and then she took some blood to run tests if there was an infection. She also came back to give me some pain meds. Morphine and fen (?) something. Because I had never had morphine before she gave me half the dosage. I could still feel the pain pretty good about 20 minutes later and then I felt it coming on. I had Jason rush to the cupboards in the room for a bucket or something because I was going to throw up. And multiple times did I. :o( Then the nurse came back in and gave me the rest of the dosage so perhaps this could go down. They wheeled me to get an ultrasound and on the way there, just as we got in the door I had to beeline for the bathroom. Boy I hate to throw up but it sure made me feel better.

I was sort of out of it by now. I guess the drugs were kicking in to make me feel groggy but the pain was still there. The technician said that indeed I did have gallstones and a lot of little ones with some bile built up in there. I don't know how things went that next hour but the next thing I knew I was going for a ride on my gurney to a room in the labor/delivery unit. I was being admitted for an overnight stay. They hooked me up to a monitor so they could see the babies activity and then I was pretty much asleep. Jason was so good to stay by my side on the hard couch. :o) I was visited in the morning by a nutritionist who suggested a very low-fat diet for the next 2 months and then the doctor said I may have to have surgery to take my gallbladder out but that I would need to talk to my doctor about that.

Boy, we just never know what is going to happen to our bodies once we get pregnant.

It is now three weeks later and I have lost 15lbs being on this lovely diet. My doctor was concerned yesterday so next week I get to have another ultrasound to make sure the baby is gaining the weight that she needs to. I am kind of happy about this as I want another chance to see what she looks like. I will be 35 weeks. I am pretty sure she is gaining the right amount of weight as her kicks or hits are starting to hurt. Plus the baby is breech although the doctor thinks she may have turned but this will tell us for sure as well.

I feel starved. Truly. But it is so worth it. Anything to get my baby into this world full-term and healthy. The gallbladder attacks only hurt me and I can deal with that. I miss my chocolate cravings but I guess in the long run that is better for the baby.

I also survived camp mid-June. It was a blast but the cankles came to see me everyday and all day long. I drank so much water. I just wish I would've been comfortable sleeping but I was glad I was able to be there all week and not have to go home. Camp Hobe' rocks.

Ok. I may have just rambled on way too much. I'll post again tomorrow I think. I have some baby shower's coming up, my mom is in town for our reunion, etc.

Until then...

Ultrasound #2

2009-05-07T13:04:00.000-07:00

Today I had a follow-up ultrasound to get a closer look at the heart valves. Jaymee was not laying in the right position for them to see clearly. We got to see the heart and it was cool. It was beating and we saw the valves and watched them move and work. Truly cool. We saw her bladder and kidneys. We confirmed once again that yes, she is a girl. :o) Had to make sure.

We saw more of her profile today although the technician said she was being shy. She had one of her arms curled up to her head/face. I did almost faint there at the end. I guess this is common. Crazy stuff. Out of the photos we got today this was the best one. You can see her profile. So cute!

Discomfort

2009-04-16T13:50:00.000-07:00

Okay. So I think I have entered the stage of discomfort with my pregnancy. For the last two days little Jaymee has decided to maneuver her way right on my bladder. And of course my visits to the bathroom have become more frequent. It's a discomfort for sure. I've had a hard time getting comfy at work today. Even though I have a great ergonomic chair for my back it is still not so comfy. I also feel bloated. And I'm only almost 5 months.

I know those of you who are moms are just chuckling to yourself going, "Just wait! It gets even better!"

Started wearing a newer, bigger bra too. My skirts and pants are starting to get a bit tight. But I must say there are some cute maternity clothes if you can find them. Shopko and Motherhood have had some great stuff.

But despite all of these fun things your body goes through I am loving the soft skin, the thicker hair, my growing bump and the elation of getting the opportunity to be a mother. Truly words cannot express.

Well.. it's official!

2009-04-03T21:03:00.000-07:00

We had our ultrasound on Tuesday morning and we are welcoming a healthy baby GIRL into our home sometime at the end of August. (I give a vague due date because at this point I've heard five different dates so I figure anytime the week of the 23rd.) We are so excited.

Now I am thinking of all the ways I can teach her to read and write and sing and play the piano, etc. I can't wait to read stories to her every night and sing her lullabies. I know Jason is excited to teach her to draw, take photos and understand science a lot better than I do. I've been waiting for so long to be a mom and now that it's just months away it seems like such a dream.

I felt her move for the first time last night. So sweet. I was going to put up some of the ultrasound photos but she still looks a bit alien-ish so when we get our next ultrasound I'll post those.

It's almost time for Hobe'!

2009-03-27T14:26:00.000-07:00

I am deep in the planning stages for camp this year and I am so excited. I always get excited for camp because we plan most of the year and then it takes one week to execute our ideas. After that we just crash. :o) But it is such a rewarding experience. This is my 7th year volunteering and I can't believe it's already been that long. For me it's as if I have always been involved with Camp Hobe'. If my sister were still alive I know this would be something she would get involved with as well.

This year we are changing things up and bringing in some new activities and having some more sign-ups for the teens. I am curious to see how I will be at camp this year as I will be 7 months pregnant! Eek. I am trying to think of a Halloween costume that will go well with my big belly. Anyone have any ideas out there because I'd love to hear some suggestions. Our theme this year is about celebrations and holidays. Saweet!

20 Albums that Changed My Life

2009-03-06T11:22:00.000-08:00

(Think of 20 albums that had such a profound effect on you they changed your life or the way you looked at it. They sucked you in and took you over for days, weeks, months, years. These are the albums that you can use to identify time, places, people, emotions.)

Below are my top 20 in no particular order.

1. Clan of Xymox- Medusa
2. New Order- Substance
3. The Cure- Disintegration
4. The Smiths- Strangeways Here We Come
5. Pet Shop Boys- Please
6. A-ha- Hunting High and Low
7. Prince- Purple Rain Album
8. New Order- Low-life
9. Beauty and the Beast Soundtrack from the television series
10. Siousie and the Banshees- Tinderbox
11. Dead Can Dance- Within the Realm of a Dying Sun
12. The Cure- Bloodflowers
13. Nitzer Ebb- That Total Age
14. Depeche Mode- People are People
15. Tears for Fears- Songs from the Big Chair
16. Dead Can Dance- Towards the Within
17. John Rutter- Requiem
18. Erasure- The Innocents
19. David Lanz- Return to the Heart
20. The Cure- Head on the Door

Susie and anyone else, I would love to know what your top 20 is. Post it on your blog!

The Grow family continues to grow!

2009-03-02T11:58:00.000-08:00

Jason and I have some great news. Now that family know we can announce it to everyone else. We are going to be having our first child on August 23rd. We are so excited!!! We don't know the sex of the baby yet but hopefully by the end of March or Mid-April. Jason wants a boy and I want a girl. My sister-in-law Laura had a dream I was having a girl in August and my mom had a dream I was having a boy. So... I guess we'll see who ends up being right. :o)

I just finished my first trimester. 6 more months to go. The nausea has been such a good friend of mine that I hope it will leave soon for a long vacation! I am ready to enjoy being pregnant. The hormones are insane though. I get easily grouchy now and overly emotional. Jason just loves that! I haven't gotten the hunger craze yet nor the smells making me sick but my eyes have been bigger than my stomach a few times.

The baby is the size of a lemon right now. Awh!

This is truly a blessing and something I've looked forward to my whole life. What a divine partnership we embark on with God. Truly it is not just a mere coincidence that we have the opportunity to create life.

I'll keep you posted on how things are going. When we have our next ultrasound I'll post it.

Looking Forward to 2009

2009-02-04T13:56:00.000-08:00

These are a few things that I look forward to this year, in no particular order:

- reconnecting with old friends on Facebook and through blogs
- seeing how much I'll grow in my new calling at church
- my sister having her second baby any day now!!
- my wheeler family reunion this summer
- camp hobe' 2009
- finishing the back yard
- sewing again
- watching friends get married and have kids
- getting to know my neighbors better
- having a few girl's nights
- lots of camping
- spending time with Jason no matter what we are doing
- shedding the pounds that have already started to come off
- learning new things
- studying the gospel
- managing our finances better
- just having a great time!

We are still here!

2009-02-04T13:40:00.001-08:00

It truly has been a long time since I last posted on our blog. The holidays seemed to just sweep us away and now it's already February. Crazy stuff!!

We had a great Christmas break. We drove down to Helper to spend Christmas with my dad and company. Nick, Dom, Randall, Jason, Janeyl and I played domino's and a card game called "go" like every day and all day. It was a lot of fun. It kept snowing outside and my dad would take Randall and the boys to go and push snow with the plow on his 4-wheeler. It was a great Christmas. Jason surprised me with some cool stuff. I've always wanted a book light and now I have one. :o)Annette and my dad got us some great kitchen stuff which I love. Now if we only had a bigger kitchen I could find lots of things to fill it up.

We went and visited with G'ma and G'pa Wheeler too. Grandpa hasn't been feeling so great so I was glad to visit with him. I sure love him and Grandma too. They are both awesome people.

We brought all of our gear to go snow-shoeing and we never did. I hope we get to go at least once before the snow is gone. I really miss it.

I took a week off between Christmas and the New Year and it was nice to stay at home with Jason and get some stuff done around the house that I hadn't been able to take care of lately.

We had a great New Year's and for once I didn't make a list of things to accomplish. I never ever get them all crossed off so I thought I would try something new this year. Not sure what that will be but I will try it.

I hope everyone had a great holiday season! My hopes for you for the new year are good health, happiness and lots of blessings from above!

Cool Video

2008-12-03T13:05:00.000-08:00

Check out the video below. It's definitely worth watching.

Oh How We Love the Red Box and Shopping Adventures!

2008-12-01T11:53:00.000-08:00

Over the holiday break we watched a lot of movies. Here are some of my thoughts about each one.

1. Kung Fu Panda: so awesome!!! this is definitely one we will purchase to have for our collection. i love it when they have a moral that we can teach our children or remind the adults with.
2. Wall-e: i thought this was a cute flick although with a political message attached but it wasn't as blatant as say Happy Feet was. it was amazing how so much time could go by without anyone saying anything.
3. Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed- this was a great film and something that made us think and have discussions during and after the movie. It will make you mad, sad, happy and cry. I highly suggest you watch it.
4. Get Smart: we loved it! This will also be going in our collection.

I know I am forgetting a movie or two but we love going to the Red Box and getting new movies for just a $1. We've recently starting using the online reserve feature which makes it that much easier to get.

We also went to see Twilight with our neighbors for a date night. Poor Jason got dragged along but we were both surprised that it was better than we thought but still it was okay. I think the actress who played Bela and the actor who played Edward did a great job. Hopefully when the second movie comes out they will improve on make-up and wigs. It was a bit long and boring at times. Not sure if this lends itselt totally well to the big screen.

I convinced my husband to come out with me on Black Friday because I had never been before. We met my sister-in-law Stacy at Tai Pan Trading at 6:35am. Wow. Yes, it was early. We did a little shopping there and then proceeded to Shopko, Wal-Mart and then Sam's Club. We picked up a few Christmas gifts and some decorations for the home. Then while he went disc golfing with the boys I hit Ben Franklin's and Michael's for some fun with the coupons for 50% off on one item. I may do this again next year. It was fun watching the crazy people too!

Thanksgiving Poll Results and thoughts

2008-12-01T10:07:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all of you who voted in our Thanksgiving poll. I was not surprised to find that Pumpkin Pie came in first with 61% of the votes. Sweet Potatoes and Turkey tied for second and third place with 46% equally.

I have so much to be grateful for this Thanksgiving season. I've made a list of those things and would like to share them with you.

1. I am eternally grateful for my husband Jason whom I love so very much. I am grateful we were sealed so that we can live together forever with our family. He takes such good care of me and I am so proud of his accomplishments.

2. I love my parents very much. I am grateful for all they have taught me and I use those things in my life daily. And in turn I am grateful for my family, which extends to those I am related to and those I choose to love.

3. I am grateful for my job and for the comforts it provides our family so we may be able to pay the bills, put food on our table, a roof over our head and clothes on our backs. Along with this comes the wonderful insurance that we have so that we can take care of our bodies.

4. I am grateful for great neighbors and the area we live in.

5. I am grateful for friends new and old who continue to bless my life in ways they don't know and by the things that they do.

6. And last but not least I am grateful for the freedoms I have by living in this great country. I am grateful for my freedom of speech. I am grateful for my freedom of religion. I am also grateful to those men and women who fight for us to keep our freedoms alive. May the Lord always be at your side.

Say Thank you!

2008-11-24T13:03:00.001-08:00

Something cool that Xerox is doing

NaNoWriMo

2008-11-05T11:49:00.000-08:00

So, you are probably thinking to yourself what does NaNoWriMo mean? I know it sounds like something Mork from Ork would say. :o)

I am in a writing group and there are 5 of us total. We all decided to take up the NaNoWriMo challenge this month. Essentially you are writing so many words a day until the end of the month when you have a novel. It can be craptastic, etc. It's a great exercise to get the juices flowing for creativity and eventually writing that masterpiece novel that publisher's will just eat up.

I was going to write something involving my fairies but I decided to do some drama. Divorce, death, marriage, kids, etc. A full range for crying. My goal is to make you cry.

If you are interested in checking this out go to: http://www.nanowrimo.org/.

Good luck to my fellow writing group buddies. May you prosper this month!

It's been 2 years!

2008-11-02T08:26:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's been two years already since Jason and I were married. It seems like the time just flew by. On October 27, 2006 Jason and I were married at 10am in the morning. We eloped. It was easier that way I think even though I would've liked for my immediate family to have been there. We had a reception right after Thanksgiving that next month and celebrated with our friends and family.

Thanks to my sisters and family members who helped with the decorations and money for the reception. They helped to really make it a special day for us. I was excited to have a friend do the catering for us. John is excellent at what he does and the food was amazing. My family really got me choked up when they decided to do some speeches/roasts to the happy couple after we had eaten. Victoria read us a poem. My mom read us some thoughts. My dad, who is pretty shy with this stuff, gave us some advice and Rik really surprised us by singing a song to Jason and I. My Aunt Linda also said something and of course made us cry. Jason's family was not wanting to say anything but they ended up saying something. Jason's mother and grandmother said some nice things too. To thank those who helped and to honor our parents we got roses for those and some chocolate and thank you cards. My sister Mariah who is brilliant with crafts made little wedding books of us to give to the parents and grandparents. She also made our sign-in book. Tre' cool.

Our friend Mike Masse' played and sang for us during the reception and we had yummy desserts. I thought that was special. We danced to Somebody by Depeche Mode and then we danced with our parents. Well Jason danced with my mom. One neat thing occurred during that afternoon that still to this day makes me smile. My parents danced together on the floor. That was a gift in itself. They talked about how their daughters had grown into great women and they were so proud of us. Thanks mom and dad for all you've done over the years. It has definitely not been perfect but what is.

It was great to see friends and family come out to see us. We didn't have a line and I liked that. We just greeted everyone and talked to them. Our colors were greens. My mom taped the whole night mostly and so Jason and I have a copy of that day which is really special.

I love you Jason. I am so glad that we found each other and so crazy that we knew each other for so many years before we were both ready to be dating and getting married. You are my best friend and I cannot wait to start our family and spend the rest of my life and eternity with you.

Note: Jason and I were sealed in the Manti Temple last December on the 15th.

Halloween Party 2008

2008-10-27T15:28:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful time at the Halloween Party on the 18th. We had a Scary Movie trivia contest which Jim won some Red Hots for. We also had a costume contest and you can see the winners in the slideshow. We watched Gremlins which was awesome.

I usually do a big Halloween Party every year but with limited space I don't get to invite as many people as in the past. Hopefully we'll have more room next year in our theater room.

How Many Years Ago?

2008-10-23T11:48:00.000-07:00

20 Years Ago…
1. I was a sophomore at Carbon High School in Price, Ut. and was one of only three goths at the high school. :o)
2. I really enjoyed drama class with Mr. Scott.
3. My friend Andrew Fry and Shane Stilson enjoyed stealing the bandanna off of my head and throwing it up above the lockers. I was too short to grab it back and had to beg someone to grab it for me.

10 Years Ago…
1. I was working at the University of Utah in the International Admissions office as an Assistant Supervisor. At this time I was searching for another job on campus which I got in February of 1999.
2. I was working at night at Deseret Book downtown part time as a Night Supervisor.
3. I was taking classes in the Russian/English department.

5 years Ago...
Need to research this one. I am having a blank!

3 Years Ago...
1. I went to a book signing with my husband who was my friend at the time. We went to see one of the artists for the Lord of the Ring's movies and get his new book signed. This is the night in my mind that started it all. We began to talk and talk and talk and I couldn't believe how much we had in common.
2. I was getting ready to go on a Lord of the Rings tour with my friend JoAnn to New Zealand the first week of November. One of the best trips I have ever been on in my life.
3. I went to Russia in March for two weeks with friends. It was great to get back to Russia after having been home from my mission for 10 years. My camera however was stolen in St. Petersburg and I ran down the sidewalk screaming obscenities in English. :o)

1 Year Ago...
1. I fell on Jason's birthday in May and apparently aggravated a bulging disc I had in my back. I was in the worst pain ever of my life. I finished physical therapy around September.
2. We went camping in Yellowstone over the Labor Day weekend. It was wonderful. I had never been there officially but just passing through. We had a bison walking around in our camp site and we ran into a bear by the river. Very cool trip.
3. We got a new flag for our pole on our anniversary from Jason's parents. It was nice to have a new one since the one we did have was falling apart.

This Year So Far...
1. I saw The Cure in concert and was able to have my husband come with me. My best friend Stacy was there with me as always and my awesome neighbor Susie, who also loves them, came with her husband. Such a wonderful evening. The best!
2. Jason gave us a scare in March with a bleed on his brain. I never want to have to think of the possibilities like I did at that time or feel those feelings. It was awful for all involved. I am glad to say that now it seems to have gone away. No real indication that it ever happened. A miracle. Thanks to all who prayed and fasted for us. Love you.
3. Our yard is looking so good. We finally got the trees in the backyard planted and it's all tilled. Now we just have to get the curbing along the fence done and then we are ready for the spring when we finish things up.

Yesterday...
1. Jason and I enjoyed our last day at the Wolf Creek resort in Eden, UT. Jason truly kicked my butt in racquetball on Saturday night.
2. This is the second week of being in our new ward. Jason and I were asked to say the prayers in sacrament meeting. I am excited to get to know the new people. They are beginning to call people. We are keeping our fingers crossed for getting Sunday-only callings, besides VT and HT.
3. We dropped of the tiller last night that we borrowed from Fry. It was nice to catch up with him and Helene and the kids. They did a cute puppet show with ghost suckers and sang Halloween songs. I hope we get to spend time with them again soon.

Today...
1. Jason and I celebrate our second year anniversary today. YAHOO!! It's been a great two years and I look forward to many more to come!
2. Can I just say how excited I am that we have a DVR now. I can now record all my fav shows and I don't even need to be home. I can even go do stuff and still not miss it. I love that!
3. I signed up to have a personal trainer today for 30 min once a week for 8 months. This is just what I need. Wish me luck. I start with him next week.

Tomorrow....
1. The new Cure album comes out today. Amazon shipped my order yesterday so I hope I get it in the mail. Love love The Cure.
2. I would like to get up in time to get to work at 7am so I can get a lot done that I didn't today because I was not at work.
3. I would like to get the template finished for the new GPS site.

Next Year...
1. I would love to be welcoming in our first child sometime next year.
2. Our backyard will finally be done and we can have people over. I especially look forward to having our hot tub to sit in and relax.
3. Depending on when we have a child I would love to get to England to see my mom and sister or go to Italy in October with the rest of the Callor clan.

I tag: Whoever wants to because this is a long one.

Photo tag

2008-10-23T11:35:00.001-07:00

Tagged: Here are the rules, you pick the 4th picture in your 4th folder, and then give a brief description...
This picture was taken in November of 2005 on a Lord of the Ring's tour in New Zealand. My friend Jo and I thought we'd live up our geekiness and travel half way across the world to see Middle Earth. :o) This photo is a series of ATV's in Deer Park Heights just above the city of Queenstown. We did an excursion on our second to last day. this was awesome.

I tag: Susie, Michelle, Kalee and anyone else who wants to.

New Cure Album Coming Soon!

2008-10-13T08:43:00.000-07:00

Okay, the countdown is on for the release of the 13th studio album from The Cure. It's called 4:13 Dream. It will be released this month on the 28th of October. I cannot wait!!! We have like only two weeks from tomorrow. I wanted to add a widget so we could countdown within my blog but it's unavailable at this time. Grrh. oh well. I will just have to remind you each week!

My neighbor Susie and I have been so excited for it to come out. (Sigh)

A New Ward

2008-10-13T08:07:00.000-07:00

Yesterday at church some friends of mine were talking cryptic about a meeting we would need to attend that afternoon at 4:30. Come to find out in Sacrament Meeting they would be rezoning the stake we are in and that our ward and 4 others would also be affected. Thinking of leaving our ward made me so sad.

We went home and waited for the time to pass before we had to go to the meeting. It was packed at our stake house. I think our ward made up the bulk of it. Anyways, with the First Presidency approval 5 wards would now be 4 and the area we live in will now be part of a branch that existed. So, we are now in a ward with the low-income apartments, trailer park and women's shelter by our neighborhood. It was previously a branch and a group that was not very big and struggling. Now we have 61 families from our neighborhood combining with them. They released everyone and called a new bishopric. Two of the counselors and financial clerk live in our block.

So sad. This has been the best ward I have ever, ever been in. It's been the best for Jason and the bishop really was just what we needed. The ward itself has been awesome and I have had one of the best VT companions ever. Needless to say the women from our neighborhood that were sitting by us cried a lot and so did I. It's like losing family. And I also think it's hard because we are going into a situation where the leadership will come from our neighborhood. We have the chance to make a difference. It's like going to the mission field again but it's just in your backyard. I was scared at first and mad but now I am really excited. I think it will be a little challenging at first but what an opportunity for us all to grow. And for those who need some encouragement and callings to help them grow.

Wish us all luck!

8 Things...

2008-10-10T14:41:00.000-07:00

I never get any blog tags so I steal them from other blogs. :o) I thought this one might be fun so here we go.

8 TV Shows That I Love to Watch
The X-Files (still love those reruns)
Medium (not sure where it is this year)
The Office
Earl
Bones (I just started watching this year. I like their banter. Reminiscent of Scully/Mulder.)
The Biggest Loser
Masterpiece Theater
Hallmark Channel (sniff, sniff)

8 Favorite Restaurants
Lonestar Steakhouse (love it!!)
Chili's
Bombay House
Sam's Club Pizza (does that count?)
Cafe Rio
Burger Shop
Village Inn
Olive Garden

8 Things That Happened Yesterday
I taught piano lessons to my niece and nephew
I ate sunflower seeds while driving
I read 150 pages in my current book Brisingr
I had chili for dinner
I sent in two possible proposals for a conference
I read my Facebook messages
I kissed my husband
I ate cookie dough

8 Things I'll Look Forward To
The first snowfall
A big bunch of fallen leaves to jump in and scoop up
My second year anniversary
Going to the temple with my husband this weekend to do sealings for family members
Having the business equipment out of our house and into a warehouse somewhere
Pumpkin pie and egg nog
Having kids
Spending time with my family during the holidays

8 Things On My Wish List
A new home where all of our stuff will fit and we have room to grow when the kids come
Finish landscaping the back yard next year
Build some raised garden beds
Memorize the Moonlight Sonata
Start writing my fairy novels
Spring clean this winter and declutter old stuff
Finish my mission scrapbook
Travel the world

8 People I Tag
Susie
Holly
Michelle
Sara
Heather
Stacy
Laura

Fall is FINALLY in the air!

2008-10-09T07:42:00.001-07:00

I am so glad that fall is finally here. It seems like the summer lasted way too long this time around. And now our forecast for the weekend is possible snow in the valleys. Now this cannot be right. What happened to fall? Crazy winter needs to wait at least until November to come knocking on our door. It seems like every year fall is shortened. Makes me sad. It's one of my favorite times of the year.

Due to the craziness of the weather and snow possibilities, we had to get our remaining 5 trees planted right away. Jason worked so hard on getting them planted. Yeah!! Now they will not freeze. I am surprised how well our quakies (sp?) bloomed while still in their buckets. Our bad yard did have a lot more done to it this year than last. Thanks to my friend Fry for letting us borrow his tiller we got the yard tilled and were able to do some other things. So, next year we will finish and be able to invite others over for a BBQ, hot tub fun and or our cool fire pit surrounded by a lovely, mountain stream. Awh!

Results of the Favorite Holiday Poll

2008-10-01T09:37:00.000-07:00

I decided to end the polling early because I thought most people had added their two cents worth. Below are the standings.

Christmas 6 (66%)
Halloween 3 (33%)
Thanksgiving 1 (1%)
Other 1 (1%)

I thought for sure that Halloween would win but oh well. Christmas is awesome too. Just 30 more days until Halloween!

Sunday Riding

2008-09-21T21:09:00.000-07:00

I am so excited now that the new Legacy Parkway has opened up in Davis County. Jason and I took our bikes out this afternoon and went on a ride instead of going on a walk around our neighborhood.

We first drove the length of the parkway and what a nice drive. I no longer drive to work because I ride the front runner in to town and then catch the TRAX up to the University but it is definitely going to help with Davis County traffic at peak times. It will also make going to the airport less crowded.

I can't believe how out of shape I am though. I am proud of myself that I made it! Jason and I rode our bikes from 500 S to Parrish Lane. Total round trip miles are 7.2. Pretty cool. We've decided to do this at least once or twice a week. Next time we want to park our car at the Farmington Front Runner stop and ride down to Parrish Lane in Centerville.

The Husband Tag

2008-09-19T11:17:00.000-07:00

I've decided to tag myself after reading my friend Tara's blog about her husband Blake. I don't have too many photos to put up today but I will get that done this weekend.

1. Where did you first meet? We met back in February of 2001 at his house in Kaysville. A mutual friend had invited my roommates and I go to his annual Superbowl party. I don't like football but I went to meet single guys. :o) I liked him right off the bat and we got along well. We were friends for 4 years after that and then we started to talk and it was history.

2. How long did you date before you got married? 11 1/2 months. It was torture for me because I knew right at the beginning that we would get married.

3.How long have you been married? On October 27th it will be 2 years. I cannot believe it's gone by so fast and yet I feel like we've been together forever. I can't imagine a time when he was not in my life.

4. What does he do that surprises you? Doing little things to help around the house or to make my life easier. He protects me. But I don't think it totally surprises me that he does these things because he is a thoughtful person.

5. What is your favorite feature of his? I love his eyes. They are so beautiful. A greyish blue but more blue than grey. I love his smile and his laugh. When he smiles his eyes sparkle and he melts my heart.

6. What is your favorite quality of his? I like the way he takes care of those he loves. He is very protective. I like his positive attitude and his ability to never give up. He is great with people in his job and is very genuine. I like how he just tells you like it is but not in a mean or hurtful manner.

7. Does he have a nickname for you? I don't think so. He usually just calls me Rebekah. I'll have to ask him about this.

8. What is his favorite color? Blue and he also likes green.

9. What is his favorite food? Steak and potatoes. Pizza. Carl's Jr. Ham. Green bean casserole.

10. What is his favorite sport? I would say basketball and Frisbee Golf. He also likes volleyball.

11. When and where was your first kiss? It was at his house on December 30th, 2005. He is a great kisser. Of course a girl will remember the date. Silly.

12. What is your favorite thing to do as a couple? We enjoy going to the movies or renting them from the Red Box and watching them on our theater system at home. We enjoy playing Frisbee golf. We enjoy traveling, camping, hiking and riding bikes.

13. Do you have any children? Not yet. We hope to sometime next year if God's willing and the creek don't rise. That is a favorite saying of my dad's.

14. Does he have a hidden talent? I think he should be an inventor. He'd be great. He is also an artist and a photographer. I think he should work on those skills more if he could just get the time to do it.

15. How old is he? Jason turned 35 in May.

16. Who said "I love you" first? It was me. He HATES to be mushy.

17. What is his favorite type of music? He loves 80's rock and 80's new wave/punk. Some of his favorite bands are Metallica, Pearl Jam, Talking Heads, The Card, Oingo Boingo, etc.

18. What do you admire most about him? He never gives up. He works at something until he finds a solution or an better way to do it. He is very inventive and I love that. He is also a hard worker and does a great job at whatever he gets his hands on. He is also a handy man or rather the "jack of all trades". This is something I admired in my other father and grandfather so I am glad to have it around in my own family. He also has a big heart which he would deny profusely.

19. Do you think he will read this? He just might and surprise me. He comes to our blog from time-to-time.

20. I tag: Laura, Stacy, Mariah & Susie

Top 10 Movie Soundtracks

2008-09-16T16:06:00.000-07:00

While organizing some music last Saturday I came across some of my soundtracks that I hadn't listened to for a while. I decided to listen to some. After finishing up one I started to think about my top 10 soundtracks. What soundtracks have moved me, etc. I am sure I may be forgetting a few on the list but here it is. Enjoy. I am trying to put them in order as best as I can.

1. Lord of the Rings Soundtracks (all three movies)- Howard Shore
I can sit and listen to these songs and I will know at what point we are at in the movie. It's some of the most amazing music assembled together and combined with the film makes for a beautiful experience. I always cry listening to the music because I get so touched, excited for the drama, the adventure, etc. I encourage you to revisit these albums if you have not listened to them for awhile. I would also tell you to listen to any of Howard Shore's scores. He rocks! Did I mention my friend Jo and I met him in a Moscow, Russia airport a few years ago on our way home. It was so AWESOME.

2. Original Star Wars Trilogy (Star Wars, Empire Strikes Back & Return of the Jedi)- John Williams
Wow! I can listen to these for hours. The unmistakable Empire's March and the opening theme's are gorgeous. John Williams changed the lives of so many children and adults in the mid-70's and his songs are still amazing today. I can remember sitting at the Price Theater with my family watching the Star Wars movie when I was little. Loved it!!

3. Braveheart- James Horner
Some people have their opinions about Mel Gibson but I don't think they can ever deny one of the greatest films ever to come to film was directed by him. This music has so much feeling and that Scottish flare with the bagpipes gets to me every time. And I can always picture William Wallace screaming "Freedom" at the end of the film with that beautiful bagpipe anthem from the film ringing in the background. It will surely bring you to tears and make you feel proud to stand up for the things you believe in. Stand up for freedoms and justice.

4. Gladiator- Hans Zimmer & Lisa Gerrard
This is another powerhouse soundtrack. I have just about every soundtrack that Hans Zimmer has done and every one by Lisa Gerrard. Those of you who are Dead Can Dance fans will know of her work in that group and the haunting melodies, exotic and hypnotic sounds she produces with her vocals. She is truly amazing. And in working together Hans and Lisa have created a beautiful moment in time. It's the same for me when I listen to Braveheart. It gets down into the heart of me and I am forever changed.

5. Amadeus- Mozart

Mozart is my favorite classical composer. I love his works and what a wonderful collection for the telling of his life's story. His Requiem makes me cry.

6. Purple Rain- Prince

It's Prince! And all of the songs are still popular today. Love this album

7. The Sound of Music- Rodgers & Hammerstein

I love the songs from his movie. Julie Andrews is my hero. Such a wonderful voice. Catchy tunes that tell a beautiful story about love, war, country and music. Favorite Things and Do A Deer are two of my most favorite songs next to Edelweiss.

8. ET- John Williams

Memories of my childhood. Hope, sadness and love all mixed into one soundtrack. Who didn't want to have ET live in their home and who didn't want to fly on their bicycle through the sky.

9. Pretty in Pink- Various Artists

This takes me back to the 80's which I just LOVE. Every song on this album is worthy. Thank you John Hughes for making some wonderful movies and introducing us all to Duckie! I married my Duckman! New Order, Psychedelic Furs, etc. Great Album! And who didn't want to look like Molly Ringwald's character. I loved her vintage clothes and I always wanted to work in a music store.

10. Sense & Sensibility- Patrick Doyle

Emma Thompson did such a fabulous job with this film and Patrick Doyle likeness complemented the script with his beautiful music. I especially love the songs that they sang. I bought this piano book for myself and for my mom. I love all of the piano solos which is mostly what comprises the musical score as well as some symphonic pieces. Simple and elegant.

Honorable Mentions:

1. Saturday Night Fever- Bee Gees

Such a classic album and movie. John Travolta was great and the songs of the Bee Gees will forever be associated with disco.

2. Grease- Olivia Newton-John, etc.

Another John Travolta flick and this time he is singing. We all grew up listening to this and now the teenagers today are singing the songs and dancing to them in cheer leading and drill team routines; much like we did when we were young. The funny thing is that they don't really understand what the song Summer Lovin' is talking about. But I won't give it away so they can still live in that la la land.

New Toys

2008-09-12T16:14:00.000-07:00

I love new toys. I just got upgraded after having my current work laptop for almost 5 years and I am so stoked! It's a MacBook Pro 15". I love it. I only go it on Wednesday but I already cannot live without it. It has a built in camera which is going to be nice for doing conferences and trainings. It has a bigger hard drive so more storage for my iTunes music. :o) Too bad it's my work laptop because I would love to keep it.

I also recently got a refurbished iPod Classic. Mine that I purchased back in 2005 is obsolete and they are not even refurbishing them anymore. I love mine. I have 80GB. Wahoo and it can also do video which I may or may not use. I'm also playing more with the podcasts on iTunes and downloading language segments on how to learn Italian and Spanish. Since it takes me 2+ hours to get to work and back each day I have plenty of time to learn something new.

I was telling my friend Susie that I already have 1400 music files loaded. Now, guaranteed I do have all the Narnia books on CD and some other audio books but the rest of it is music. I am addicted to music. I love it.

Thanks for listening to me chat about my new toys!

Labor Day Camping 2008

2008-09-03T22:07:00.000-07:00

We finally got away. I needed it. Jason needed it. We had a great time going to the Aspen campground just outside of Hanna, UT in the Ashley National forest. Our friend Joe came with us. We met up with the Wagoner's and the Senior's. It was such a fun time.

We had steak and potatoes on Saturday night and played cards and had yummy hot chocolate. Lynnette was a great cook and Jodi's kids were adorable. Daren was there for a day and just fished with his brother. Hopefully next time you can come for a longer time.

The only draw back was the rain and we got it hard on Sunday night into Monday morning. It was crazy. It rained for 12 hours straight. We had to run to our tents at 8:30pm and call it an early night. I'm glad I had Jason to cuddle with so we didn't freeze. We definitely need a new tent that it taller and doesn't leak at the seems. And do not ever buy batteries from the Dollar Store. They only last about 15 minutes. Never again.

We also brought our bikes up but didn't do enough of it. Not enough trails that were close but we did ride around our campsite.

Thanks for the weekend of fun and relaxation.

Ward Camp Out 2008

2008-09-03T21:42:00.000-07:00

The first weekend in August our ward had a camp out at Petersen Park in Tremonton, UT. Jason and I were asked to be on the committee so we helped with the food. It was a blast and we had a lot of fun.

There was a few hikes around the campground. We also brought our Frisbee discs to practice and I did awesome! I guess I just didn't feel any pressure or I got lucky. One of the two.

The only thing that was not so cool happened to be the blood suckers. Mosquitoes. Yuck. Jason got attacked during the night and so did my neighbor's kids.

We had fun getting to know more of our ward members and just enjoyed hanging out and not having to answer email and phones or do shirts.

Catona-Callor Reunion July 4th Weekend

2008-08-28T14:31:00.000-07:00

Ten years ago my Grandmother Mary passed away. During the time surrounding her funeral, my father and his two sisters made a pack that they would meet up in 10 years to have a reunion. Well, we made it to 10 years and had the reunion.

I was sad that my two sisters Mekette and Mariah were unable to come. But we had a blast. But I must say, my dad needs a bigger house if we are to do this again. More space and for sure at least another bathroom or two!!

Twilight Series Take 2

2008-08-28T12:51:00.000-07:00

After having discussed the ending of this series with my awesome neighbor Susie I wanted to explain a little more about why I found it disappointing and the message it could be sending to all those young adult readers.

Now remember, you don't have to agree with me on this at all. And I do know that it is just a story but as a reader I want certain things.

I think for me the big thing is that Bella got everyting in the end with a nice bow on top. She got the baby. She got the vampire. She got the werewolf as her best friend and future husband to her baby. She got a new vampire family. She got to keep her own family and stay in touch and close proximity to her father and mother.

Where was the sacrifice that was being made to become a vampire? All of the other members of the Cullin family went through it. Why not Bella? in fact just turning into a vampire and going through the stages was better for her than any vampire ever. There was no choice really between Edward and Jacob because she got them both in the end.

I don't think that the author intended this.In fact I think she got so caught up in her own characters that she probably couldn't see this. The messages of infactuation or obssesion being love, not going through any trials or sacrifices to get what you want,etc. Life is not all about getting your cake and eating it too. I just thought that is was OKAY to have some parts that were sad. Okay not to have her parents at the wedding. Okay not to have the baby live. Things like that. that's life.

Ok. I am done. Thanks for listening.

July 24th Weekend: Disc Golfing in Coeur de'Lane Idaho

2008-08-28T12:22:00.000-07:00

Each year for the last 5 or 6 years Jason and his brother Eric have been taking annual homages to their Uncle Max's in Idaho to do some disc golfing. I'd never heard of this awesome sport until Jason and I were dating. I love it. I don't play that well but I love it.

This year we went over the July 24th weekend and had a blast! We went to three different parks and played a lot. Below are the photos from our adventure. We had yummy steaks from Don's Meats in Sunset, Utah. We watched the X-Files movie. We played a lot of Rock Band and Indiana Jones Legos.

We love you Max, Annette & Kala! Thanks so much for letting us come and spend time with you all.

Flowers in our Yard

2008-08-28T10:57:00.000-07:00

These are some photos of flowers from our yard this summer. I tried to incorporate more yellows, reds and purples. I have vowed to buy more perennials too! I am sick of redoing flowers each year.

Enjoy!

Review: The Spiderwick Chronicles

2008-08-17T13:27:00.000-07:00

Last night Jason and I got a movie from the Red Box. That is our usual date night because it's inexpensive and we get to spend time together doing something we enjoy.

I've been wanting to rent The Spiderwick Chronicles and finally we did. I've been acquainted with the young adult series for a few years but I have never read them. Now I will. The movie was delightful and scary too. I think the writers created a wonderful fantasy world parallel to the "real" one we are living in at the same time. The acting was great and I thought it was a good movie. I hope they do more but I think the ending of this movie was like book 5 or 6 but I don't know because I haven't read them. It's a great film for kids and it teaches some lessons and hardships that come from a family when they have parents separate for whatever reason. Thumbs up from me! I'll let you know how the novels go.

Blogging Friends & Family Part 2

2008-08-08T12:53:00.001-07:00

Homestar Shine-
This site is done by my wonderful mother Debbie. I can't say enough good things about the woman who raised me. She taught me to love learning and life. She taught me to read and love music. She taught me how to play the piano and to sew. She taught me how to cook. We email often and talk on the phone when we can. I go to her for advice. She listens to my dreams and ideas for the future. She is very smart and good at teaching music. She is a talented seamstress. She is a geneology whiz! I love you mom!!

Johnson Jottings-
Laura is Jason's sister. This is the site for her family. She is a very talented writer and I keep telling her that she needs to write stories for children based on the things her daughter Catherine says and does. They are hilarious. Laura is a great cake maker as well and decorated and made our cake at the reception. She is a very good baker. I would recommend her highly for any occasion. She also enjoys crafts and sewing. Very talented indeed. I like to talk with he because she makes me laugh. She has three daughters who are growing up way too fast it seems. I teach piano to Sariah who is the oldest and is in 6th grade.

Just Us Hansen's-
Stacy is Jason's sister and this site is about her family. They have one daughter and three boys. She is a trooper in my book. Her younger boys are always into everything and doing crazy stuff so she gets the "Surviving my Children" award. I don't know how she does it all the time. She is very good with crafts and scrapbooking. She and my sister Mariah should get together. I am also teaching her son Ethan to play the piano. Savannah was taking lessons but she decided it wasn't for her. I think we need to do more girl's nights and go to the movies. :o)

Kemp Krew-
Michelle is a roommate of mine back from the late 90's. We were so excited that she was 'normal' when we advertised for a new roommate. The one we had previous was good but needed to be on her own. We had 5 of us at one time in an apartment. Lots of estrogen. My memories of Michelle always make me smile. She has the best personality. She always has a smile and was fun to be around. I enjoyed having her as a roommate. We could talk for hours into the early mornings sometimes. I've seen her through heartbreaks and then the happiest moments of her life. She was also a great friend to me during crazy times in my life. She always met the goals she set for herself and I admire that. I remember when she started dating her husband John. He was in her Spanish class at the U. She was like, I think he is cute and I like him. Their first date was a movie I think and they kissed if I remember correctly. John knew really soon that he wanted to marry her and Michelle was like, "I won't be like those girls who get engaged after three months." Well, she was!. Then they got married and now they have the cutest kids ever and they live back east. I hope one day that we will meet up again so we can see one another. We spent a lot of time at her parents house and got to know her sisters and brothers really well. And eating yummy bbq chicken at Tony Roma's. Love you Michelle!

Blogging Friends & Family Part 1

2008-08-05T19:59:00.000-07:00

I recently saw a post on my old roomies site that went through her list of links with friends and family and talked about them. I am currently doing some work at home on the computer and it's SLOW. So, I thought this may be a fun thing to help pass the time. I'll break it up and get to everyone over several posts.

The Baun Family-
I first met this family when Jason and I went to a conference in Baltimore back in 2006. Jason and I were dating at the time. We decided to look up his cousins and spend a night with them. I had so much fun with Henry & Evalyn. They were so cute. And poor Holly was pregnant at the time. I enjoyed talking to her and Matt. We had a great evening. Now Holly lives closer in the state of Washington. I hope we can see them again and I can get to know her better.

The Bulter Family-
Tara is a childhood friend of mine. Our mothers were best friends and did a lot of sewing projects and classes together. I remember taking a sewing class on Saturdays with Tara and her siblings and mine. We had our little sewing machines and learned how to make pillows and bags. A lot of time was spent with the Haddocks growing up. I hope that now Tara and I can renew our friendship from then as we haven't seen each other since high school. She has four children now and I am hoping to start my family soon.

The Dawes Family-
Boy, I sure do love this family. Although we haven't seen each other since Brian and Roseanne got married all those years ago, I always kept track of them through Fernae and Dickson. Roseanne and I went to high school together. We had choir classes together and hung out some. When I started my second year at CEU I moved into the apartments the Morley's owned. I got to know them very well. Roseanne, Jedd, Denette , Marcia and I had a lot of fun times together. I especially remember the game nights and ice cream fun. This was also the time I was coming back to church after having been inactive for over 5 years. They were great spiritual giants for me. Roseanne met Brian at CEU. I'll never forget going to see the dance recital for the college. Brian looked great in tights!!! Love you guys. Now they have a few kids and Brian is a Principal of an elementary school.

The Escobar Family-
Jason has a lot of cousins because his mom is the oldest of 9 siblings. Jana recently got married and we were able to do their wedding video for them. Jana has two cute girls. We are excited for she and Chris. See you around Grandma Z's soon.

Is the Twilight Series Ending worth it?

2008-08-05T14:40:00.001-07:00

I just spent the last 12 hours of my life reading the last book in the Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer. Before I go on with my book review I want to talk about the previous three books in the series.

I read Twilight last fall at the suggestion of my neighbor, in fact mostly all the women in my neighborhood had read it. Usually I am pretty good about keeping up with novels coming out but I had never even heard of her before or her vampire novels. I was curious as she was an LDS writer and what she could produce about vampires.

I read Twilight really fast. It was an easy read. I think my only complaint was the whining, angsty teen called Bella. She reminded me of Harry in the Order of the Phoenix (I think) when he was whining all the time. I thought the storyline was interesting so I kept on reading the other two books. I liked her characterizations and some of her details. It was simple. By the time I finished with the third book I was not as impressed as I was at the first. I was hoping that the final book would shed light on some questions I had.

Now that I have read the book I am very disappointed in the ending of the series. I expected more out of Bella frankly. The way the character was portrayed in the other novels was totally undone in this last one. I thought the plot of this novel was kind of hokey and I thought it ended flat. I was hoping for something more than what we got. It was like being excited for the first Matrix film. Building up the anticipation for the second movie and being sorely disappointed in both the second and third installments. I recommend reading it with your kids if you have teenage girls because lots of things come up about sex that you want to be aware of.

I do however think she is great with characterization, descriptions and I think her writing has improved from the very first novel. I read The Host a few months ago and in my opinion that is the best book she has written out of the 5. If you are disappointed like me, I recommend reading The Host. I think you'll enjoy it much better.

Movie Reviews

2008-08-03T22:09:00.000-07:00

So, the weekend of the 24th of July rocked because I finally got to see the new X-Files movie.

Jason and I took our niece Kala with us. To quote her words, "It was creepy and cool!" It was such a wonderful thing for all of the fans to see. The setting was six years after season 9 of the television series ended. What were Scully and Mulder up to? Was he still chasing little green men? Were they together? Were they tied up with the F.B.I. anymore? The movie will answer these questons and more. I thought it was fantabulous!!! It gets a 5/5 stars from me. There are all kinds of nods to the series like the ceiling in Mulder's home office, who comes to his rescue towards the end of the movie, sunflower seeds, etc.

I listened to an interview given my Chris Carter who said that a possible 3rd movie would most likley come out in 2012, when the Alien Invasion was said to have begun. This information can be grasped from the series.

Consequently, I now have season 1 & 2 on DVD thanks to Wal-Mart for having such a killer price on them. I hope to get the 7 seasons before the year is out. Then I can just give away everything I recorded on VHS. Any takers?

Batman: The Dark Knight 5/5

Jason and I went with our friend Joe last night to see the new Batman film. I had heard several reviews from friends and was very eager to see it. It did not disappoint. Wow, was the joker whacked!! I thought it was an interesting look at humanity from a lot of different angles. I can't wait to talk with my friend Susie about it.

I think Heath Ledger did an amazing job playing the joker. It was dark and scary and sad and funny all at the same time. I would not want to be in Batman's shoes. He sure has a lot to consider. I would suggest seeing it but it's not for children under 13. A lot of senseless violence but not nudity or language.

I Want to Believe!

2008-07-23T23:02:00.000-07:00

It's after midnight on the 24th of July. Happy Pioneer Day!!! I am just sitting here listening to old b-sides of The Cure and doing some work. I won't be in the office on Friday because we are going to Idaho later today. I am excited to get away because we have been working very hard and we do need a break.

This Friday the new X-Files movie comes out and I am so stoked. I spent a good 30 minutes today at work watching old clips from episodes on youtube. I so miss the series and wish that it was still going. Sigh! I raise my bottle of water to Mulder & Scully. May Chris Carter keep writing more X-Files movies so we can revisit the world we love so much every few years.

I've been wanting to get all of the seasons on DVD forever it seems but they were so much money in the beginning. Tonight I saw them for $19.96 at Wal-mart. I am going to try and buy one each month if we can afford to do so. I have them all on VHS but I would love to have them on DVD.

Mulder, I know that the truth is out there! Believe the lie!

Eternal Blessings!

2008-07-20T17:33:00.000-07:00

Last night, the 19th of July, Jason and I spent the evening with our good friends Lynnette and Charlie. It was a special night for them because they were sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple. It was such a neat session too. The sealer talked about all of the temple ordinances leading up to this, the "crowning" one and talked about all of the blessings we receive. It was awesome.

It was such a neat time to spend with our friends and be a part of their special day. Charlie and Lynnette have waited a long time to get to this point. It was really cool to see the Elders who taught Charlie the gospel at the sealing. One of them came all the way from Hawaii for this event.

Good times. Good times. This was Jason's first time in the Salt Lake temple and at a sealing other than ours. It was great to hear the blessings again and feel the special spirit we only get in the temple.

Love you Lynette and Charlie!

LDS Church Stops Russian Mission Calls

2008-07-14T10:26:00.000-07:00

I recently got together with volunteers from this year's Camp Hobe' session for a party. One of those volunteers served in the same mission as I did in Russia. He told me that he heard they were no calling missionaries to Russia anymore. They were going to let the natives take care of the work. I guess it was due in part to the visa issues that plagued the missionaries after I served from 94-96. I am grateful I didn't have to go through that.

I am attaching of the text from the article and a link to the whole article.

BYU NewsNet: LDS Church Stops Russian Mission Calls

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has stopped calling missionaries from North America to serve in missions in Russia, officials at the church headquarters in Salt Lake City said.

“The missions are fully staffed and the work is going forward,” church spokesman Rob Howell said. “They have more missionaries than they can use.”

Howell would neither confirm nor deny the decision was influenced by the difficulty of obtaining and renewing visas for North American missionaries.

The original article can be found here.

I am not quite sure how I feel about this. I know for sure that I am so grateful that I was given the opportunity to serve the Russian people and to open doors or plant seeds for the missionaries that went after me. In a way I think this is good because I think the natives should be teaching their own to a certain degree. A lot of members from Russia have served missions in the states and/or are serving in other parts of the Ukraine or Russia. This is a great opportunity for them to grow as a country especially with the building of the Ukraine temple.

Forging a New Path--Literally!

2008-07-11T16:38:00.000-07:00

Before Jason and I got married he wanted to transform the backyard weeds into some cool things. He bought the stuff he needed to do most of that and then never had the time because he was busy.

We've been married for almost two years now and we are finally getting the chance to do those things to the backyard.

The Theme: Mountainesque
Trees: Pine, Quakies & Poplars
One new deck with an area off to the side for the grill done with brick.
One cool fire pit with seating around it.
A gravel walk way from the front gate.
Till up everything except for some grass by the front gate.
Add grass by the shed.
Create one cool mountain rock stream.
Raised garden beds.

So, you see we have a lot of work to do. My friend Fry let us borrow his tiller to get a lot of this initial hard work done. I will update with photos as we get phases done. I will also post the current look which is, "Oh so lovely!"

A New Space for the Grow's

2008-07-11T16:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our new blog in it's new space at blogger.com. I wanted to switch because of the options that blogger has. Things seem to work easier and are less cumbersome here. I am in the process of migrating some things over so be patient with us in the process.

You can catch up with us from our old blog at http://growfam.wordpress.com.