Why I Smile

Erin Rae...

2010-06-16T10:37:00.004-07:00

2010 has been a really, really good year for me. It seems like I've been searching for myself with no success all of my life. Well I'm happy to report that I've found her. Down very unexpected paths. But I believe that God has guided my steps all along the way. And if it weren't for a number of very important and hard things in my life, I would never have ended up here.

I also felt like until I found her, I would never find love. Because you have to know yourself first before you can give yourself to someone else. And only then will you truly understand it and have success.

So I put it out in the universe today. Thank You. Thanks to all of you that have come into my life and played a part. May you be so fortunately to find happiness too.

Someone Special

2010-06-14T10:07:00.008-07:00

Meet Ryan Warnick:
5'11"
(Great height for me. Don't have to stretch for kisses,
but room for some cute heels.)
Brown hair & Blue Eyes
(That combination gets me every time.)
Almost 28
(I'm about two months older:)
Pursuing Nursing
(Been supporting himself through school while working full time.)
Currently a Processor for LDS Hospital
(Worked there for three years I believe.)
Soccer Player
(Strong. Athletic.)
Gentleman
(Opens every door. Pays for everything. Always jumps to help.)

He went to high school with one of my good friends. We had a brief flirtation last summer and then reconnected mid-March. Our first official date was April 3rd. We became exclusive May 13th. He told me he loved me on May 24th. That's when we made it official on Facebook. I figured if we were in love, it was time. :)

I knew what I wanted and I suspected that God would give me what I needed. Ryan is an unexpected package, but when I took a closer look, it seemed to be exactly what I was looking for. We have so much in common that we have an incredibly good time together. And yes...he loves to bowl too. I'm still working towards converting him to the U. I blame his Y tendencies on his parents. I'm actually working on his whole family. They should know better. :) I'm also learning everything. and I mean everything. you ever wanted to know about soccer. It's actually quite enjoyable. I'm jumping right in.

I'm the happiest that I think I might have ever been. It's such a great feeling. Just thought it was time to share. Any questions? :)

Sorry Stalkers

2010-04-22T14:58:00.001-07:00

I realized that my background said Merry Christmas.
I'm sorry that I'm not a better blogger.
My computer called it quits again. Waiting for my tax return to get another.
I'm going to need it for school next fall anyway. Back to it again and full time. Wish me luck.

Total Catch Up

2009-11-16T22:59:00.002-07:00

Who knew I could get so far behind? Okay...so that's not that far fetched. If you thought my entries were long before, well brace yourself for the longest summary you've ever seen....at least on this blog.
JULY
George Straight with Mom.

Bear Lake

Mushie & Me...makes me smile.

Cousin Gerald & his bff, Billy, having the time of her life.

We swam...

We ate ice cream...

We played games...

I attempted to cook...

We roasted marshmellows.
Our annual family camping weekend was another success.

Julienne & I find a way to entertain ourselves on any old night.

And started rock climbing with her ward.

They paved a brand new road behind our house...so we took my camera and had a good old time in the middle of the street.

Ambo came to Emmy's birthday with me.

I attended my second annual Travis/Ryan Slip n' Slide Birthday Extravaganza.

And had the time of my life.

Thanks to wonderful people like Marissa.

AUGUST
Girl's Dinner

Repelling.

Helped a bit with a house my sister turned.

Bowling with Canadians. :)

Midnight Beetlejuice.

Mocktail Party @ Jen's

Nikki's 27th

Ice Cream after your dental visit.

I got to play with the Stephens a bit...

Meteor Shower up Big Cottonwood Canyon

Of course bowling with some of my favorite marrieds

Amorette's Bridal Shower
(Eastside Style :)

Emmy & I got to join crazy Team Ugly.

Summer Picnics with Cousins

Return to Utah celebration with the Theurers.

What better way than to bowl.
We (okay mostly Jaxson) put on a show for the whole alley and I bowled crazy well.

We celebrated the beginning of a new season.

Roommates hitting up the Ikea.

48 hours in Canada
Required stop...Tim Hortons.

Banyon & I got to know eachother.

It was some unexpected fun.

We said goodbye to beloved Auntie Joan.

Juliennie and I attempting dinner.

Sushi with new friends at Mikado.

SEPTEMBER
Repelling Again! Thank you Brother Bouck.

Utah State Game

Sand Dunes

Girls Indian & Movie

Oldies @ Chili'sCoworker, Mindy's new addition.

Bowling with Dice & Cor.

Julienne's Fashion Show

Louisville

Birthdays

OCTOBER
Elway's shower brought old neighbors back together.

Office 5k

Wyoming Game

And....Halloween.

Welcome Elway!

2009-11-09T15:37:00.006-07:00

My sister Heather gave birth to Elway Trymer Gregory Florez today at 1:57pm. He is 6lbs. 14oz. 19''long. Everyone is doing very well. He's a cutie. Just needed to upload some pics for family that couldn't be here and I'm back to the hostipal to hold him for the first time. Newborns are so precious. Love it.

Everything's Amazing and Nobody's Happy By Alex Johnson

2009-10-22T07:20:00.004-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rOzNrO54xsY

I can't figure out how to load the video. Check this out.I'm going to work on complaining less myself.

yanphoto

2009-10-19T09:32:00.006-07:00

Okay, I just happened upon this photographer, Diana. (my friend's sister turns out) And I just want to send it out into the blog world that I think she is best thing I've seen since sliced bread. I stole this pic from her website and I had a really hard time even choosing which one to steal. I think she has this incredible ability to capture the inter-beauty of her subjects. She helps you see what their loves ones see. Maybe a little bit of their soul. (that sounds so cheesy) Apparently, she just moved to Salt Lake and I feel impressed to help spread her name. I don't know how she compares to the Salt Lake market, but it would be worth every cent. I'm saving up my pennies. So check her out (yanphoto.com) and tell your friends. Talent like this should not go wasted.

Finally Learning.

2009-10-15T14:19:00.002-07:00

Stroll Down Memory Lane

2009-09-25T11:36:00.007-07:00

Two years ago I made a memory book for my oldest friend's 25th birthday. Yesterday another friend tagged me in some old pictures on facebook and I remembered I had a whole bunch digitally from that project. So if you would like to get a glimpse of my youth, check THIS out.

Can't Escape

2009-09-23T08:21:00.006-07:00

My work is on a baby frenzy. I can't escape it. Addi, Sophie, Cash and now Heath is expecting little boy of his own. I won't drink the water. Won't do it and you can't make me.

June 2009

2009-09-16T19:08:00.019-07:00

First on the list: Move.
Yes, this was the sixth in four years. Thank yous to all the poor fools who volunteered to move me 42 stairs up to the third floor. Good Karma.

My caravan.

One truck. Three cars.
Arrived at my new place the same time as a rain storm.

Everyone was drenched. I'm so sorry guys.
Thank you thank you thank you.

The Juliennie and Erin chapters begin:
I learned how to play Poohead.

I got to meet this precious, Alexander John.
Congratulations Lizzie & Matt.

Still able to meet up for breakfast with the oldies, Jen & Marin. The Original Pancake House. Hmmm.

Juliennie turned 25!

Dinner at the Spaghetti Factory with her friends.

Then cake and ice cream at our new place. Julienne was jealous that St. Patrick got his own day and color, so a handful of years ago she officially declared June 7th to be Julienne Perry Day of which you are required to wear orange.

It was fun to have sufficient space to hold people.

A late dunes trip started with a stop to this crazy delicious scone place in Nephi. They were HUGE!!

Liv didn't have a choice but to ride with me on Cooper's bike.

Classic Rapture Chicken.
Looks a little different then the 'dinosaur nuggets' that I tried to make at Bear Lake this year. :S

We weren't faced with heat mid June in Little Sahara, no heat, Rain. This summer had a really hard time getting started this year.

Most of the pictures I come home with from the dunes are of Olivia. It's just not fair that she is THAT cute. Here she is honking the horn of the three wheeler and busting a gut every time.

I realized after I moved again...how much I left behind.

My nieces had a skating competition locally.

Madison did great!

My sister asked me to announce the whole competition! I've never done anything like it. It was really hard and I got really nervous.

I even announced Morgan's name wrong. :S

But I got to hang out the whole weekend with these girls.

It was fun.

Bowling with the boys.

Dinner with Brooke at California Pizza Kitchen.

Shoe party with Juliennie. Bought out of my norm and I've only worn them once. :(

A friend of mine, Anna, texted out an emergency mourning for MJ at the cemetery.

A dozen people or so showed up and we had a great time paying tribute to a legend.
Complete with milk and cookies.

After JP Day we kept the balloons in our apartment for awhile, until one day we found our pair of scissors and it was a slaughter.

Nothing survived.

I got to play with Brooke and her kids for a whole day. Here are a couple random pictures of three of her cute kids while we were waiting at Lowe's.

Those killer blue eyes.

Redds and Harts came over to see my new place.
This is a classic scene.

My new place has two hot tubs and an accompanying fireplace. Room for everyone. It's beautiful.

I was itchin' for a classic summer day. So Marinnie, Juliennie and I hit up the local Gardner Village Beach Party...

Limbo-ed for discounts.

Then off to fireworks and flat bread.
Followed by $15 pedicures. It was perfect.

Life at 'The Ritz' is panning out different than expected.
But it's still full of adventure.

One of my friends said:

2009-09-16T08:13:00.002-07:00

"I hope Kanye doesn't show up to Patrick Swayze's funeral.
'I'll let you get back to your funeral in a minute... But Michael Jackson had the best death of the year. Just sayin."

One in 8 Million

2009-09-15T13:58:00.007-07:00

I was blog hopping today and ran into this link of the New York Times. I'm fasctinated. What a beautiful idea.

May 2009

2009-07-27T20:36:00.023-07:00

Marinnie's Birthday at Red Robin.

Followed by cake & ice cream at our place with friends.

Surprise! Michelle McDonough's baby shower.

Lunch with beautiful Kelti.

Steph's bridal shower.

Games & pizza at The Pie

Movie Themed Gifts

Embarassing Moments.

Most of the girlies.

Car Party

Finished off with a chick flick.

Lindsay does my hair at Paul Mitchell.

Bobbie's Baby Shower

Meservy's Graduation

Birthday BBQ Pool Party

@ the beautiful Decker home

Roomies

All Three Birthday Kids

Girlies

Good Times.

Mrs. S. Hart :)

I made their wedding video...so I took a few extra pictures.

Lizzie & Mathew treated me to Olive Garden for my birthday.

I got to meet Annie Shelley!

Dinner at the Palmers. :)

Sand Dunes Memorial Weekend

First day and a trip to the emergency room.
Mini bike. Just my size.

Chase is crazy.

Nikki suited up at The Face.

Cooper's cute bum.

Liv.

Milton's bench. Room for everyone. We were expecting it to be much hotter.

We took advantage of a small warm window for a water fight.

(These two slept through it)

But most of the time it looked like this.

Milton & Rachel cozy by the fire.
The cooks.

Nikki's Wedding! Pre-day Pedis.

Bonfire with Scotty.

Day of.

Marci

Fetie

Nik.

Mr. & Mrs. Thanks for the good times.

I decided half of my problem with blogging is that I take too many pictures. It's very difficult to narrow it down. Sorry to make you all wait so long. As you can see May was a VERY busy month. Birthdays, Showers, Reunions, Weddings.

That's New.

2009-07-22T12:15:00.002-07:00

Who knew after 27 years that I would like peppers. Twice in the last months I haven't had the urge to pick them out. I've actually even liked them. Weird.

No Internet

2009-06-23T09:12:00.005-07:00

I've moved to a new apartment (yes, my sixth move in four years) and we don't have internet or television (despite our government coupon converter...thank you DTV ). I thought, 'oh, no big deal, I sit at a computer all day anyway, perhaps I'll read more.' Yeah, that hasn't happened and I realized, I need a wireless network in order to blog and post pictures on facebook. Yes, I've been keeping up with everyone, but no one can keep up with me. So with that realization I have started my provider research and I'll be up and running in no time. I hope.

April 2009

2009-05-14T22:45:00.013-07:00

April 2-5

Amanda and I flew into Denver for our second annual Jazz roadtrip. A very generous friend hooked us up with VIP parking, dinner, and lower bowl basketball tickets . Thank you Greg!

I had the Salmon at the Blue Sky Grill. :)

They were out of the pork so Amanda got nachos and they comped dessert. :)
They sent us on our way with to-go cups for our drinks.
The Pepsi Center was awesome.
The game...not so much.
Off to the Marriott, where another friend hooked us up with an employee discount. Thanks Steve. :)
The next day we took a tour of the US Mint, where they make circulated coins. Then a stop at the temple where the little old ladies fussed over us.
We ate very well this weekend, but our favorite place was Rock Bottom. In fact, we ate there twice.
We discovered we knew quite a few people in the area. So we did a lot of visiting with old neighbors, coworkers, cousins and friends. Thank you Kera and Patrick for putting us up for a night. It was so wonderful to see you again. And we managed to squeeze in a little shopping at the outlets too despite the bad weather. But this beautiful view greeted us home.
April 10th

Friend and soon to be roommate, Julienne, had a fashion show for school down at the Rose Wagner Theater. It was awesome. After which the four of us went to Bucca di Beppo
and they stuck us in our own nook...and forgot about us. :)

It eventually tasted good. April 12th :)Wicked came to Salt Lake City. My sister, Heather, got us a great price and we surprised her daughter for her birthday. It was yet again wonderful.
April 16th
Jenny was in town from England and so we used it as an excuse to get a bunch of oldies together again. Meigan, Nikki, Me, Jenny & Candice found a little corner at Five Guys and talked for hours. April 17 - 19
I hopped on a plane to surprise good friend, Nicole, in San Francisco. I've decided I love sitting in the front row. With some inside help, I managed to get this kind of reation. :) It warms my heart. The reaction alone was worth the time and money to skip out to the Bay for the weekend. I got to tag along for all of the fun stuff. Like a test run. :) Beautiful. And Audi drivin'. Thank you Jason. :) All for the Bridal Shower. and the bride. I then managed to leave my camera in the bathroom at this restaurant. So sadly the rest of the trip goes undocumented, but it included the Melting Pot and the wine lounge and some fun sleeping arrangements. I so didn't mind. Thank you for taking me along Nik. April 24th
Dinner & Dancing for Alicia's birthday.
California Pizza Kitchen. The Hotel. April 25th
Madison & Morgan had another skating performance. Morgan was a blue alien, thanks to my mom's amazing sewing skills and duct tape. :)

Madison stepped in and skated in an extra group number for a sick friend. She did great!I'm so proud of my neices. I never did anything that took that much hard work growing up. It can't be easy, but it's paying off.

I think I might have over used the smiley faces this round, but it was a great month.

March 2009 - Travels Begin

2009-05-05T00:04:00.000-07:00

March 5-14

Dominican Republic

Party of twelve check-in for red eye to Atlanta. We had a lot of equipment to take with us. This is our accountant Craig.

Sleeping in Atlanta waiting for connecting flight four hours later.

The sun rises on Friday.

All aboard...Clint, Amanda, Heath, Stefani, Mindy, Sheri, Craig, Me...

and David.

A corner market next to our hotel.

Old colonial Santo Domingo

Welcome Dinner at Hotel Europa

Clinic Day 1 Saturday
Most of these people have never had a toothbrush. We would teach communities how to properly use them.

Last trip we ate chicken on the bone, rice and plantains.
This time we were spoiled.

And there always seemed to be more than enough for everyone.

Mary Lou is from St. Louis. She and Dr. Jim Moore were on our same trip in Sept. 07. It was a pleasure to work along side of her once again.
This is Rafael. Rafael is homeless and has an amazing story. Smiles for Hope was able to give him new front teeth. Now, out of gratitude, he comes along on the first clinic day to help out where he can. Mary Lou brought along speakers and her ipod, so we were dancing together.

After returning from dinner, Doc treated the group to ice cream.

Sunday
The Blackwood clan and Hammonds headed to sacrament service.

And stopped by the beautiful temple grounds.

Returned to check out of hotel #1 and head to a most delicious lunch.

The restaurant was right on the water and teased us of our leisurely time to come at the end of a hard working week.

The sun rises on the beginning of Clinic Day 2. This is taken from the fifth floor of the Howard Johnson.

Stefani and I continued our sterilizing duties.

Mindy doing some Spanish cramming before the day begins.

We loved the children.

Greg Anderson of the Crown Council blogged our trip.

Hygienists would help numb the patients waiting for doctor treatment.

Many of the children would come and watch through the windows.

We ate breakfast and dinner at the hotel.

Tuesday, Clinic Day 3

Bathroom facilities are....interesting.

This day was National Women with HIV day.
We signed this banner in respect.

Dave got a little taste of his future.

Some of Dr. Michelle's pulled teeth all cleaned up.

Wednesday, Clinic Day 4
Apparently, I love food. We had bananas straight from the branch. I had two.

I fell in love with this little boy waiting in the doctor line.

He was by his mother's side while she had her teeth cleaned.

Patiently waiting to be seen.

Doc is legendary at extractions and he loves it.

Pregnant Mindy couldn't get enough of these little girls.

Part of the program is to teach girls from the bateys dentistry. Three doctor students and three hygiene.

Thursday, Clinic Day 5
Check out of our second hotel in San Pedro.

Complete with our daily omelet to kick off the day.

This is Kimberly. Isn't she beautiful?

Dogs are wild.

I worked the whole week with the hygienists.
This is a very classic scene.

As the last day winds down, there is one more patient.

The last day everyone had an opportunity to pull teeth.

Children with machetes.

The Blackwood Clan

Beautiful Kayla with Esperanza.

My partner in crime.

Goodbye until next time.

The sunset of our last clinic day from the third floor of our last hotel.

Room visitors.

Relaxation begins.

Friday - Soaked up the sun on the beach as much as possible before returning to Utah's snow.

Our last evening together.
Smiles for Life Dental Care & Esperanza.

Saturday - the return home
Our flight was delayed. So we made ourselves comfortable. March 26-29
Longview, Washington
I hopped in the car with my mom, sister, and two nieces to visit my sister, Raena's new home.Awesome Uncle. Skateboarding Niece.Dr. Spencer
A serious pizza.
Family & FriendsMy niece is so small...she just held herself there.
Headed to the beach...in the rain.Chowder & Crab CakesTaffy as far as the eye can see.
Thanks Rae.Next time it will be sunny. Right?Road trip food. Um. I love my family. It was a really nice weekend.

New Post Below

2009-05-04T23:17:00.003-07:00

I dislike that if you start a post, then it has to be posted in that order even if it's just a saved draft.
It's a really long entry...it took awhile.

Is It Friday Yet?

2009-04-30T08:39:00.006-07:00

Thought of the Day:

In order to be Successful,

You must Persist through Failure and Crap.

Wish you well with whatever crap you might have to endure in order to get to a beautiful spring weekend.

I found this here.

Disappointment

2009-04-15T11:24:00.002-07:00

I just discovered my oh-so-helpful blog list...isn't always updating. :( I have missed out on months of entries on a few friends because it says it hasn't been updated. Boo.

February 2009

2009-04-10T22:10:00.022-07:00

4th - 8th

This year's Annual Event for the Crown Council was held at Lake Las Vegas. (I didn't even know Las Vegas had a lake)
Doc's family joined us. We love having them around.We were a little tight with all of luggage headed to our hotel.

Our rooms were awesome with this beautiful view.

Thursday's workshops with Dr. Wible.

Some quick time for a pedi. They are my favorite.
Mindy and I had some down time Thursday night so we checked out the local shops. We ate at this Irish Pub and this Boxty was Incredible. I could go for another one right now.
If you have the option...order the Boxty.

We're like VIP at these events.
New David got to learn the ways. ;)

Opening act was The Passing Zone.
They make it look easy, don't they?

We had some down time in between speakers.

Juliet Funt was hilarious.

All dressed up with Jared Theurer's girls for the awards dinner.We eat very well.

Water Cooler Entertainment.

The true highlight of the whole event was this man, Kevin Carroll. Talk about inspirational. I wish I had even half of his conviction.

The last night we enjoyed "Crown Council's Got Talent".

I love these events. I leave so impressed and inspired to make a difference in the world.

15th

My Nikki's Livi turned One.

I took photos for her of the party and so many turned out cute I have to restrain myself from posting them all. I guess that's what happens when you are that cute.

Nikki is an amazing mom. I call her a Domestic Goddess. I mean just look at what she can do. I hope she will teach me a thing or two someday.

19th
My ward is full of talented people and decided to put on an art show. They had musicians playing all night...

And as things quieted down, there was dancing...
and then there were a lot of photos taken. It was a great night.
20th - 22nd
Amanda's family has a cabin up outside of Heber. We do a lot of relaxing in our pajamas with a little snowmobiling on the side. It's good times.*I'm on a roll. Three months in one week. Almost caught up. :)

January 2009

2009-04-08T19:41:00.014-07:00

2nd

Utah vs. Alabama at the Redd's with the Mckees

4th
Raena came into town for Christmas

6th
We got our hair done together at the Paul Mitchell School

8th
Steph and I played in the snow

9th - 11th
Friends rented a cabin for the weekend. We hot tubed.

Played in the snow.
And watched a few dozen movies. It was great to get away. Thanks for taking me along Nikki. :)16th
The Utes put on a parade down town for a perfect season.
Julienne and I walked in the festivities.Then we got a group together to go bowling.
Something that was long overdue.

We met a few new friends.

17th
I was a little down one night,
so my roomies took me out to dinner and a movie.
This tasty pina colada cheered me up at California Pizza Kitchen.
20th
I went to dinner at the Olive Garden with my Salt Lake Girls. It had been way too long since we got together.23rd
Steph and I started going to lunch on Fridays. Cafe Rio is always a favorite. (try to ignore the fact the I'm wearing the same shirt)

24th

Jen Jan and I supporting our Utah Gymnastics

We had such a good time bowling the weekend before, we called for a repeat after the meet.

27th

Amanda got her company seats again. She is makes it difficult to ever sit in the upper bowl again. :)
30th
Mom and I went to the Draper open house with friends.

Then drove to Ogden to watch Morgan in a skating competition.

We got to play with Lisa and the kids.
It's sure hard to get enough of this little guy.

It was a fun day with my mom.

And Morgan is a very good ice skater.

It's crazy when I do these entries to see how much I cram into one month and how many pictures I actually take. Most of this stuff is not interesting, but I like to think of it as my photo journal that will hopefully make it's way into a memory book one day. Isn't technology great.

December 2008

2009-04-01T20:01:00.017-07:00

2nd

My sweet friend, Elyse, was headed off to married world, so we hit up a dollar movie. True to the amount that we paid, the filmstrip broke and we waited and waited. So we took pictures...

And then we skipped out to another theater...and saw parts of that then parts of the original flick. I'm not even sure what movies we saw that night, but I don't think that either of them count.

12th-14th
Thanks to the whitening fundraising we did in 2008, Garth Brook's foundation, Teammates for Kids, whisked our office off to Las Vegas for the weekend.

Groups of our size travel best in limos.

Caesar's Palace isn't too shabby.

Meet in Greet with Mr. Brooks again. :)

They sure knew how to feed us.

Bobbie may or may not have gotten stuck at the Bellagio. We seriously couldn't stop laughing.
Got a little shopping in, thanks to Dr. Blackwood's Christmas bonus arriving just in time.

We attended a live auction hosted by Jay Leno fundraising tens of thousands of dollars for children. Needless to say, I didn't bid on anything.

The one and only entertained us for the rest of the evening.

This little delight made the weekend even better.

15th
December wouldn't be complete without some service at the food bank.

17th
In true tradition, our office went bowling for our Christmas Party. Pregnant Bobbie & Jeffrey

Doc & Rach

Jake & Brunette Mindy
And our new addition, Dave & his wife, Laura.Mindy made us these sweet braclets. Thanks Mindy!

17th
Roomies and I went to the Bombay House for our own Christmas Party.

Gifts were exchanged...

and enjoyed.
Marin & Jen have made for good times.

20th

My nieces performed in their winter ice show.
(shown here with morgan's bffl)

21st
We attempted our own Christmas card, but kinda waited too long to do it.

24th
Christmas Eve is huge for my family. My mom makes the most deliciousness.

My sister, Heather's cute family.

My sister, Lisa & Brian.

We played the White Elephant game.
Nephew, Mushy, had the final decision.

We read the Christmas story.

And there was lots of singing. Thank you Lisa for joining me.

25th
We had a beautifully white Christmas. Max enjoyed it.

But it delayed our traditional trip to Ogden for dinner.

26th
Amanda got great basketball tickets from her boss for Christmas. So we hit up the favorite Beni Hana...

and got our clappers ready...

for some sweet seat action...

in the dead of winter.
Thanks for taking me with you Amanda. It's always a good time.

27th

Our postponed Christmas dinner at Lisa's helped us hold on to the season just a little longer.

wonderful hosts nieces :)

31st
New Years Eve started with a fancy dinner with Julienne's friends at Cucina Tuscana.

Then a quick wardrobe change and up to the institute for the ball drop with the wardies.

Then back to the big house for some good company...

sparkers...

martinelli's and dancing.

2008 came and went before I even knew it. Seeing how it's already April, I suspect 2009 is going to follow in it's footsteps.

November 2008

2009-03-23T19:43:00.007-07:00

My month started with a visit from my beautiful sister, Raena.

Then my sweet friends Macie & Kaiden got married at the Jordan River Temple. They let me attend their sealing and there wasn't a dry eye in the room.

Steph was waiting patiently for us outside.They had a beautiful reception in Draper.
I caught Macie's bouquet. Maybe it will bring me luck at finding my own dreamboat.There were many that helped us out with the car.
Overall it was a wonderful day for the new Redds. It was so delightful be apart of it.Then Chili's...

& Twilight.

Followed by the Utah/BYU game.

My football soulmate helped me count the points.

After doubling BYU's score and ending a Perfect Season...

It was a must to join the rest of the excitement on the field.

Julienne and I went on a group date.

We were challenged to take peculiar pictures.

We ate at Cafe Rio.

We went Ice Skating.
This was my 21 year old blind date, Carl,

This is Julienne's date, that asked for her number at the DI on Halloween.

It was a very strange (emphasis on strange) but incredibly fun night.

Stay Tuned

2009-03-07T19:31:00.006-07:00

This is what I get to do. :)

(Link to CrownCouncil Blog)

Well, I'm off...

2009-03-05T08:46:00.002-07:00

...to do some good again.

A Reason I've Smiled Lately

2009-03-02T01:35:00.002-07:00

MAD Tv - Bon Qui Qui at King Burger - More free videos are here

October 2009

2009-02-27T00:10:00.008-07:00

I have decided to consolidate the month of October into one post for two reasons. One - It's ridiculous to be this far behind. Two: I was without a camera for a couple of months. So all of these pictures are a collection from those I spent it with. Also after looking back this month I only did two things. Football & Halloween.

Julienne and I realized that we are Ute Football Soul Mates. We went to every game together. We shared the same level of passion and...loudness. Even though it ended up to just be the two of us almost every game...that's all we needed. And man, what a season to share!
After each game we would wind down at a neighbors house and holler with the silly fans sitting in traffic as they left the stadium.

Julienne is a Social Butterfly...if there were Queen Butterflies...she would be the Queen Social Butterfly. I have NEVER been to so many parties in my life.

And she was nice enough to bring awkward me along.

She even got me to go to the Haunted Woods up at Pioneer Village.

That's right...this is a different costume. We started going to Halloween parties three weeks before the actual holiday. And since we were continually running into the same people I had three....Yes. Three different costumes.

Four of a kind. Emmy. Amorette. Juliennie.

Most of them were dance parties. I had to rethink my ruby slippers for the next weekend.

I randomly ran into my good friend Jeanette, who had recently returned to the single scene as well. It was so good to see a familiar face for once. To say these parties were out of my comfort zone would be an understatement.

No Halloween is complete without carving pumpkins.

Mine is the toothy one on the bottom right. Who had a freakish accident and ended up with gills...or something.

Julienne and I stayed up all night making this Joker shirt for her brother. I wish I had the mad sewing skills she does. But I do make a decent assistant.

The roomies and I hit the ward festivities too.
We had been to so many parties that the actual holiday was kinda a bore. But I was super excited about being a bowler. :)

We hopped to four different parties. Finding the one with all of our wardies just at the end of the night.

It left us a little frazzled.

But I was always in good company.

Ready for another football game.

The game against TCU was a nail bitter, but thanks to their kicker...

It was just another field rushing victory.

I must say that the Oregon State game was by far the best game I have EVER been too. And I have been to ALOT of games. It was the BEST energy. It's really something that I only ever experience watching college football. I love it!

All and All, October was pretty outstanding. Sorry you get to hear about it months and months later.

October 9-13 - Canadian Thanksgiving Style

2009-02-03T03:27:00.014-07:00

I flew into Portland and drove with Ben & Raena to Victoria. This is some of the gorgeous Washington scenery.

Lunch in Port Angeles waiting for the ferry to Canada.

Rated the best sandwiches. They weren't shy with the meat.

All aboard.

British Columbia Parliament Building

Mom waiting outside our hotel room.

China Town. Very Small, but cool arch.

Mush entertaining himself.

Checking out the water...walking on the wild side.

More driving. To Port Alberni.

50th Wedding Anniversary.
(Obviously we are not as close as we should be.)

Congratulation Auntie Ann & Uncle Ray.
May we all be so fortunate.

McDonald's breakfast seating for thirty?

More driving back to the ferry...photo pit stop.

Uncle Ben keeping the kids entertained while we wait to board.

Drive On/Drive Off.

Welcome to Vancouver!

Do I really have to sit in the back with Raena?

Visiting my Grandparents.

Chinese Bakeries are Delicious!

Checking out?

Hours at the boarder...

...in the rain Washington style.

Yet more driving. Welcome to Seattle!

Pit stop Pikes style before my flight home.

Thanks for lugging me around Rae. It couldn't have happened without you.

September 30 - GOTCHA! Challenge.

2009-01-26T23:40:00.005-07:00

I stayed up late to meet this challenge in the middle of the night...

Just to die by this.

How would you like this running up to you in a dark parking lot?
This "Getting-To-Know-You" game we play each year tries my nerves.

September 9 - Another One Bites the Dust

2009-01-26T23:32:00.003-07:00

August 29-31 - Vancouver Vacation

2009-01-26T21:52:00.007-07:00

August 23 - Good Times

2009-01-26T21:49:00.002-07:00

August 20 - Birthday Wishes

2009-01-26T21:46:00.003-07:00

August 15-17 - Weekend Escape

2009-01-26T21:32:00.005-07:00

July 31-August 2 -Mexican Romance

2009-01-10T19:29:00.008-07:00

December 24 - This Christmas

2008-12-24T01:20:00.002-07:00

My roommate, Marin, made this Christmas card for our us. Wishing you big smiles this season.

August 13 - Beck Bash

2008-12-19T01:45:00.011-07:00

Among the crazy getting hitched frenzy were friends Rob & Jen.

Rob was really excited about his socks.

Pink was the theme. They had painted these crocket sets to play with.

Rob's brother, Richard, enjoying the music.

Jen was beautiful and I was playing with my new camera.

This cheesecake was incredible! They actually ran out of desserts and cut up the wedding cut before the bride and groom.

Someone else playing with my new camera.

Meredith and I

Rebekah and I played together at Amy's Canadian wedding too.

The cute Bride

They had a huge turn out down at Millenial Falls in Draper, Utah. They asked me to take pictures, so I have a ton of all the friends from the ward and dancing. It was great. We later decorated their car where they stayed that night before they took off to the airport the next morning for a honeymoon in Mexico.

I have found that I really enjoy weddings.

July 24-27 - Bear Lake

2008-12-17T23:52:00.008-07:00

Morgan, Mom, Madison and I watched the Pioneer Parade like last year and the many years growing up.
Morgan rode with me up to Bear Lake, but she wasn't much company. :)

A little set up.

With a break or two in between.

Bandana Buddies

Madison being old and anti-social.

Gypsy keeping guard.

We can't forget the raft.

So we pile in......literally. It was just at the end of camp.
Janna got to meet up there too.
Mushy had a ball in the water.
Olivia wasn't effected by the coolness of the sunset.
A couple of mommies keeping watch.
A gorgeous sunset.
Several more days at the beach.
Supervision.
Mushy is perfectly content playing alone.
Madison practicing her ice skating jumps.
Mo burying herself.
Exhausted.
Every summer my family would go camping up Ogden Canyon. Last year, my mom moved us to Bear Lake. Minus the mosquitoes...and it is a fantastically good time.

Um....

2008-12-15T11:41:00.004-07:00

A friend of a friend of a friend posted this on this on her blog. Take the time to read the link:

MY SCREENPLAY ADAPTATION OF STEPHENIE MEYER'S "TWILIGHT"By Eric D. Snider

Bobbie and I couldn't stop laughing at this line: "He (Edward) is hot buttered seduction on a stick. I'm not interested in him sexually, of course, because sex is dirty, but wow -- LOOK AT HIM!"

July 22 - Maceroo

2008-12-03T23:31:00.007-07:00

Every day with Macie is a special day.

July 20 - Birthdays

2008-12-03T23:20:00.005-07:00

Long time friend, Brooke, has an adorable family. She throws great parties. Crazy to think some 14 years later we would still be hanging out at the zoo.

July 18 - Family Lunch

2008-12-03T23:15:00.003-07:00

Megen was in town and I was able to meet up with everyone for lunch!

July 16 - Relief Society Presidency

2008-12-03T23:10:00.002-07:00

President Mindy had a bridal shower. As good counselors Marin and I supported her.

July 15 - Night on the Town

2008-12-03T22:44:00.005-07:00

Amanda has always wanted to treat her grandparents to a limo ride and dinner at Benihanas. When she did, she invited me to join in the family fun.

The one requirement...I had to find a date. Not an easy task.
But a friend John stepped up to the plate.

Amanda's parents and Aunt Shirlayne & Neal too.

We coordinated our outfits.

Thanks to Grandma and Grandpa Inkley for an excuse for a great night.

Thanks for letting me share this special day with your family Amanda. :)

July 12 - Classic Summertime

2008-12-01T18:51:00.007-07:00

Old time friend, Meigan, was expecting her second child after something like eight years. My day started with attending her shower with Nikki.

Then friends Ryan and Travis had a combined second annual slip n' slide birthday party.

They added soap.

By the time I got there after the shower the group had wheedled down.

A more intimate group returned to Marin's for the evening.

starving of course.

keepers.

The birthday boys and the huge cake.

fat kid club
Night Volleyball.
The day was complete. enjoyable.

Let It Begin!

2008-11-24T08:45:00.007-07:00

"May your stuffing be tasty, may your turkey be plump,

May your potatoes and gravy never have a lump.

May your yams be delicious, and your pies take the prize,

And may your Thanksgiving dinner stay off your thighs!"

I love this time of year. It tastes so good. :)

November 4 - The Elect

2008-11-05T08:38:00.002-07:00

Last night, I went to support my roommate at the Democratic Party. JenJan ran campaigns for three candidates. All three won their race. Congratulations JenJan! It was a good night for the Democrats.

It was so interesting to be apart of this process and watch it come to pass. But I'm also glad that this has all come to a close...at least for now.

July 10 - Favorites

2008-10-31T13:58:00.005-07:00

Since Macie moved home to Lehi...we have been trying to get together on a regular basis. We always, always eat and this time, we went bowling too.

with a camera

macie and steph are models

we had a handful of other favorites with us that evening too. the more the merrier.

one of my favorites

crazy fantastic new additions

what's bowling without french fries

the 10 shot favorite

followed by banana splits

and then an inevitable crash from having so much fun

I love these girls. I love bowling...weird. I love pictures. This is good times for me.

July 4 - Fourth Festivities

2008-10-28T20:16:00.008-07:00

After seeing a movie and buying sunglasses, Riko and I went to support my roommate's candidate, Trish Beck, by walking in the Sandy parade. Trish also happens to be the mother of friends from the ward.

Deb and I all suited up.

Riko people watching.

The crew in line and ready to go.

The campaign.

We moved over to Marin's place for the evening.
It was an awesome sunset.
Marin, Lindsey and I
Watching the fairworks from the upper deck.

Hot tubbing
Plotting against Jen Jan

Handstanding
Flipping
More bars in more places fishie style
It was a fun fourth.

July 3 - Spiral Something

2008-10-28T19:26:00.008-07:00

My friend, Tami, organized a group to go see a local wonder called the Spiral Jetty. We got a late start waiting for one person. But broke out to three cars and headed North. We were driving up I-15 next to this very attractive commuter...Annette decided to share something with him.

We passed up the exit the first time, because we had two different directions to the attraction. After getting separated from the lead car and driving on a dirt road for many miles, we decided to just abandon the vehicles and head forward into the unknown on foot. We had been traveling for hours, but losing daylight without flashlights. But we had come so far and it was so close.

In the dark...with the mosquitoes...

The two lasting survivors wishing you luck...because we didn't have any.
We are not found. Watch Out!

Back in the car. Recap.

We might have not made it to the jetty, but we did see something like 26 jack rabbits along they way. Here is one of our friends.

As we were making it back to the car, our lead vehicle who took a wrong turn finally found us. Instead of heading back with us, they carried on...and drove...I repeat drove the rest of the way down the hill and around the corner to the Spiral Jetty. They played, took pictures...made it home around 1am. Hard to believe we made it that far...but no cigar.
This is a silly post. Embarassing even. But an interesting day in my life nonetheless. I hope to actually see the strange nature art someday.

July 2 - Meet the New

2008-10-28T18:59:00.003-07:00

Amanda and I went to meet LeLe and Rachel's third additions.

McKenna and Lexie like dress up...

And they like us to dress up too.

Rachel's so tiny.

Lucas Nikki

2008-10-28T13:56:00.003-07:00

This one's for you...
Just our style. :)

Today at Work

2008-10-28T11:21:00.001-07:00

My boss shared this video with me...

Little Shop Of Horror - Dentist Song | Funny Jokes at JibJab

6th Folder 6th Photo Tag

2008-10-23T18:08:00.002-07:00

Kera tagged me on this one. You are supposed to go to your 6th photo folder and get your 6th photo. You never know what your going to find.

This was taken July 2005 right after we moved to San Francisco.
I can't believe how much has happened in three years.

I tag six: Sheri, Amanda, E, Brittany, Kelti and Katie

Think Floss

2008-10-22T21:20:00.015-07:00

When Dr. Blackwood showed me this in my mouth.
I started flossing regularly.

May I recommend you do the same.

June 28 - Lehi Roundup

2008-10-22T20:59:00.016-07:00

Macie moved home to Lehi, so we met up with her to hit the rodeo with her dreamboat. Here are all the girls sporting my cowboy attire.

Complete with your classic summer snow cone.

June 28 - Oh Obama

2008-10-22T20:53:00.002-07:00

My roommate works for the democratic party. We went to one her local candidate's BBQ.

Marin got a hug from Jen's friend.

June 28 - Whoa

2008-10-22T20:49:00.002-07:00

I Drive Everywhere

Something like 50,000 miles later.

June 27 - Proposal Props

2008-10-22T20:31:00.006-07:00

A friend of mine, Rob, called for some help with his marriage proposal. It turned into a group project.
He was very stressed about what to wear.

We laminated the reasons why he loved her and put it in her favorite oreo ice cream.

We bought flowers and put one reason in the pink flower in the center.We met the horse carriage and placed the gathered items, while he was on the roof of the Wells Fargo building at sunset.

She said Yes. :)

June 26 - Adorable Addition

2008-10-22T20:24:00.004-07:00

Meet Kinsley ChristensenBrooke and Kent sure know how to make them cute.

June 25 - Baptism Buddies

2008-10-22T20:07:00.004-07:00

Ward baptisms at the Salt Lake Temple. These are a few carpoolers.

JenJan, Vinnie, Jared, Nelda, Me
We got the pink memo.

OCTOBER 2 - BEST GAME EVER!

2008-10-02T23:38:00.019-07:00

I couldn't wait to post. It was too incredible to even fathom. I can't believe I was there. My body aches from all of the excitement. I rushed the field. I stood on the 50 yard line. I love Ute football. If you don't know; it's too bad. You can read about it. I love this game!

Pictures stolen from desnews.com, I sadly didn't have my camera and haven't been sent the cell phone pics from friends yet (at which time, I will post them). But I found this video from another friend that brings a smile to my face. This is one of my favorite parts of the Utah Football games. This "crazy lady" gets up at the end of every 3rd quarter and dances. She's crazy and we love it because there is alittle bit of crazy lady in all of us. :)