It's not where you go or what you do, It's who is beside you that counts.

Where has the time gone?

2012-02-08T11:40:00.000-08:00

2011 in a very quick, small nutshell!

Kevin: He always seems to be doing the same thing........WORKING! Poor guy! He works so hard and for such long hours. He always seems to find some time to spend with us, which we just love! He is still at his office and so busy! He was released as the Cub Scout Committee Chairman after serving in this position for over a year. He still enjoys word-working and just finished a beautiful entertainment center for our friend's house!

Mckenzee: Started high school......yes I said high school! I can't even believe I have a daughter in high school! She turned 14 and became a big sister. It has been a big year for her, with lots of changes. One thing I love about her is how easy going she is and how she just adapts with changes! I am so lucky she is such a good girl. She is at a Technical and Career school, taking classes to help her to be a Veterinarian some day. She is also taking a few honors classes for the challenge! She finally gets to go to the church dances and loves it! She also went to Homecoming with some of her girl friends. Mckenzee is still taking horse back riding lessons and was in a horse show in Oct. She is really good and her instructor is very impressed by how quickly she has progressed. I just love this girl!

Melissa: I was pregnant for most of the year, and I loved it! I worked as the office manager at the dental office I have been working at for the past 11 years. I had my little Irelynd in Oct. I love being able to be home for my kids all the time now! It's been a big change and harder then expected, but I wouldn't change it! I love it and would do it again!

Irelynd: Was born in Oct! only 7 pounds and 18 1/2 inches long! She has a strong personality and lets you know she is here! She is so sweet and just fits right in! We couldn't imagine life without this beautiful little bundle!

Update......under construction!

2012-01-09T07:21:00.000-08:00

Probably no one checks my blog anymore since it has been years since I have posted anything in years! It is my New Year's Resolution to GET ON IT! I hope to stay with it and keep you updated in our lives! Stay tuned!

What we've been up to.....

2010-01-04T19:13:00.000-08:00

Kevin's birthday was in Novemeber. I threw him a little suprise party- just family. I decorated with things that were his favorite. It was pretty good except for the fact that my mother-n-law kept telling me how disappointed he was going to be and asked him a few times if he was disappointed. Needless to say, I loved celebrating him and his birthday. We had a good time and turns out he WASN'T disappointed.

Thanksgiving was nice a peaceful this year. We went to my grandmother's home. I love spending time with family. I love the Thanksgiving season, reflecting on all the things I am thankful for. We really enjoyed the warm weather we had.

Mckenzee had a Thanksgiving Feast at school again this year. The kids were allowed to dress as either a Pilgram or and Indian. She chose Indian and I thought she looked dang cute. They were each suppose to bring a food they liked that started with the smae letter as their name. This year she brought Mushrooms stuffed with goodness for M. They were gone in a second!

Black Friday was fun. I couldn't believe how many people were out this year!

We had a simple Christmas this year. It's nice to have those, especially when your child is old enough and you can concentrate on the true meaning even more. I loved that Kevin was able to be home with us. We also had a ward party at the begining of the month. It was suppose to be set in the biblical times. The family in charge did such a great job with the decor. Kevin actually built the manger from some old wood. I thought it was pretty authentic looking.

Oh No- The BIG 3-0!

2009-11-07T22:11:00.000-08:00

Ahhhh, I can't believe I'm 30. Where has life gone? I'm not sure why it is so hard for us to turn 30 but it seems that way for everyone. I still think turning 25 was harder for some odd reason, but 30 was difficult too. I think it was one of the best birthdays yet! My friend Kendal came into town from Idaho and another friend, Katy, came in from Arizona. We celebrated on the 24th. Kevin threw a big party for me... 80's style. He put so much work into it, to make it the best. I am so proud! In the morning me and Kendal and Kenz were hanging out, trying to get our outfits together for the night and Katy came over. It was just like when we were in high school again, talking, laughing, and telling old stories and new. It was fun to show Mckenzee that when you find good friends growing up, you keep them and how fun it is when you get together again. Then we met Kevin at my party, he had been there all day. It was so fun. There was a band, Bunches of Fives, and lots of good food. Kevin decorated in of course Pink, and also green. There was popular 80's candy that decorated the tables, rubics cubes, and even an old school nintendo! Everyone was dressed 80's, which was so fun, and there was a fabulous 80's back drop for pictures. I loved it and had the best time ever! It was like totally out of this world! Seriously, I have the best husband ever, the greatest friends, and an awesome family. I can't wait to see what this 30th year brings.

Our October

2009-11-07T21:40:00.001-08:00

October just seamed to fly by this year. It's gong way to fast. I am just not ready for it to almost be Christmas. Here's a few things we did.....

Mckenzee was invited to a birthday party. They had to try and have the biggest, craziest hair and they were going to be judged. Mckenzee came in 2nd, but I think she was gipped! The girl that won just stuck a bottle in her hair. At least Mckenzee's, I thought, was original and creative.

My friend, Kendal, came into town to celebrate our birthdays. Her birthday is the 24, and mine is the 28. She flew in from Idaho on the 22 and got to stay until the 26. It was fun to see her and celebrate our birthdays. We celebrated like it was 1980! We had a birthday lunch on Monday, thanks to my wonderful mother.

Halloween is one of our favorite times of the year. We love decorating the house and watching Nightmare before Christmas. I just hate that it usually means the weather starts cooling down, the time change is around the corner and so is Christmas. At school, Mckenzee entered into the pumpkin carving contest! Mckenzee found the idea and we all worked together, for FHE, to make her pumpkin. She came in 2nd and again, we feel gipped. Oh well, she loved the way it turned out and it was fun making it. We made the whole class cookies and Halloween skewers and her teachers and staff got a cute little treat also.

(Mckenzee's Pumpkin)

(Gift for the teachers)

(Close up)

A few posts in one.....

2009-11-07T20:16:00.000-08:00

Mckenzee is back at Cumorah again this year. YAY! I love it! She was not nervous at all to go this year and she was happy to see some of her friends from last year. We just love it there and we are so thankful we are able to have Mckenzee go there again this year. She is doing well and loves it. She made AB Honor Roll again. I am the Box Top Coordinator and I am also over the Shop for Schools through Fresh and Easy.

(1st day of school)

( Kenz's locker)

The on September 4th our friend passed away. Devon Anderson. We are sure going to miss him! He was such a fun person, he always made you smile. Bye Dev, we love ya!

On September 4th we left for a family reunion in Salt Lake. We carpooled with my parents to save gas and it always makes traveling that much more fun. We stopped in St George and ate at Wendy's. Then all of a sudden when we were almost to Beaver my heart started racing, I felt like I was going to pass out, my tongue felt like it was swelling, and I started shaking and felt short of breath. Then my left arm felt like it was going numb. HOLY CRAP! So Kevin stopped at the Hospital in Beaver. They gave me fluids, a chest x-ray, EKG, Took Blood, and just monitored me. They released me a couple hours later and we finished our drive to Salt Lake. I was pretty much not feeling well the whole weekend. I couldn't eat! Sunday I felt pretty good. Then on Monday, I could barely stand up straight. It was pretty bad. On Tuesday I went to the Centennial ER. Nice hospital, clean. That was a plus. I went in for pain in my chest, short or breath, feeling like I was going to pass out again. UGH! They gave me an EKG, took my blood again, CAT Scan, Breathing treatment. Then on Friday I had a Dr appointment, Monday Dr appointment, Friday Dr appointment. Followed by more blood work, another EKG, an Echocardiogram, Treadmill Stress test, Halter- Monitor, more doctor appointments, a visit to the Cardiologist and now I have to take 2 different medicines and the Cardiologist says I will never feel 100% unless I have surgery. WOOHOO! and all before I turn 30!. I am feeling better but not 100%. Some good things that have come from this are I have lost 15 pounds and I am continuing to lose weight, my eating habits have changed to healthier, no soda, little sweets because all of a sudden I don't crave sugar, and I quit bitting my nails. The diagnosis.... I have SVT- Super Ventricular Tachycardia, my organs are all good, heart is good, lungs are good.

Mckenzee turned 12 this year in September. I can't believe I have a 12 year old. Her favorite present, I think was from Uncle Travis. Kevin and I took her to breakfast on the way to school for her birthday. She got to wear her birthday outfit to school. On your birthday you get free dress. She now gets to go to young womens and loves it. She has made a ton of friends. I do think it helps that she was able to go to camp this year. What a spiritual experience. I was lucky enough to be able to be with her for her 1st year of camp. I was the assistant camp director. We both had a blast. Mckenzee didn't want to come back home! I am so happy she loved it and made

so many friends there.

(From Uncle Travis)

(Playing Volleyball for Young Womens)

(At Camp)

( The Leaders at Camp)

A get away from the court battles.........

2009-11-06T22:56:00.000-08:00

After working for a year straight and no days off, Kevin needed a vacation. Since this summer was so horrible for me also, we decided we should plan a family vacation. After all, we were finally starting to get caught up after residency and we have never been on a vacation before. Then I get hit with court drama. We went to court 4 times in a matter of 1.5 months! Lots of fun! The outcome..... we both get Mckenzee an equal amount of hours and he still has to pay child support and he has to pay for 1/2 of her 1st year at Cumorah. AH, We were so tired of all the drama we just had to go. So Kevin found us a really good deal to go to Disney World, except Mckenzee's dad wouldn't let her go, he actually kept he from me for 3 weeks straight..... ask me how that is legal? Anyway so in that time Kevin and I decided that we just had to go. I am so glad that we got to go. We needed it and had so much fun together.

After our fabulous vacation, we came back home to find out that Kevin would no longer be working for IMS. We were shocked, and Kevin was pretty sad about it. ME--- I was so thankful and relieved. I am so happy to report that he is now working for IMA (Internal Medicine Associates) and he is so much happier. Miracles happen in mysterious ways. This truly was a huge blessing, just trying to remind Kevin of that was somewhat difficult.

Concert Overload

2009-11-06T21:45:00.000-08:00

This July Kevin, the awesome father he is, surprised Kenz with not 1, not 2, but 3 concerts two of which were Jonas Brothers.

The first concert was on the 4th of July, Stadium of Fire in Provo, Ut. Mckenzee and I got to have a little Mother Daughter trip to see the Jo Bros. Since it was on the 4th, Kevin, Kenz, and I did a couple fireworks on the 3rd. I love family time. Kenz and I had so much fun on our short trip to Utah and I loved spending the time with her.

Fireworks on the 3rd

Stadium of Fire

When we got home from Utah, Kevin surprised us with tickets to see Demi Lovato. Opening for her was David Archuletta, so that was fun. Kevin actually went with so, so that made it even better. She actually had quit a few songs and she was really good. David was pretty good also. We all had so much fun.

At the Demi Lovato Concert

Then the Jonas Brothers came to Vegas on the 2009 Burning Up Tour. We had really good tickets, we were on the floor, by the stage. Kenz was really excited to see her boys up close. Jordin Sparks opened for their concert. We didn't really like her that much, we pretty much only knew 2 songs, so that's when we went and got a drink. Still was a fun night!

Wedding Food......Yumm!

2009-11-06T21:28:00.000-08:00

I can't believe this was in June! Remember when I posted that me and my friend wanted to start catering, well this is some of the food that we did for my sister-n-law's wedding. We had 2 apps- Bruschetta and Mediterranean Skewers. We had a Mixed Green Salad, Herb-crusted Chicken, Mustard-Crusted Steak, Fresh Fruit, Roasted Vegetable Medley, and Rolls. We made a berry punch and a fruit water that had orange, pineapple, and lemon. It sure was delicious. Every one said they loved it. So yay! I also made the cake. I wasn't that happy with how it turned out, but it had very specific instructions. With that in mind, it turned out how they wanted it and it tasted good. It was white cake,with buttercream, fondant, and custard in the middle. I wish I would have been able to enjoy the wedding, family and friends, but I pretty much was running back and forth from the kitchen. At least everyone enjoyed it!

And so I finally updated the neglected blog!

2009-11-06T20:47:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it has been so long since I posted anything about us. I was looking through all my pictures and realized I haven't posted anything since around Mother's Day. Oye Vay! I will try and make this short and sweet, hopefully!

Mother's Day was so great. Mckenzee is always very thoughtful and I always wake up to a fabulous breakfast and this year she did not disappoint. I think she will one day make a fabulous chef. I know that is not what she wants to be but at least I know she will be able to survive on her own and I will never have to worry about her taking care of a family.

Then my wonderful hubby made me a delicious dinner.... my favorite Steak! I was very spoiled!

In May I won a drawing at Mckenzee's school carnival. We won 4 tickets to see the Lion King. So on June 1st we went to see the Lion King at Mandalay Bay. Mckenzee brought her cute little friend Isabelle with us. Her mom was nice enough to let her come on a school night, which I am very thankful, Mckenzee loved having her with us. We had pizza for dinner and on the way home we stopped by McDonald's for an ice cream. The Lion King was so good. I hope I get to see it again sometime. Our seats were center stage, not quit front row, but not too far back from that.

Mckenzee ended the school year very well. She made A-B Honor Roll, and received 4 other awards. We were very proud of her and glad she is loving school.

Our pool turned green the minute it got hot outside. Since this is the first pool for both Kevin

and I we had no idea you had to shock it every week. I'm glad it was cleared up the next day. I of course got the duty of cleaning all the equipment, at least it wasn't hard to do. I'm glad we learned of that at the beginning of the summer. I will never do that again.

Finally.... my mom and I got the great idea that we would buy my brother and his wife some pictures for their new apartment. They didn't have any pictures of themselves to make "their home". So put somethings together and while my sister-n-law was out we went and decorated their family room wall. It took longer than we thought it was going to, but I think it turned out pretty good. She loved it and so did my brother! YAY!

I know......

2009-10-02T21:36:00.000-07:00

I know I am in need of a serious update. I promise I will work on it this week. Sorry I am being a slacker!

Just a little FYI............

2009-05-22T16:32:00.002-07:00

Me and my friend from culinary school, Jihad (pictured on left), want to start catering. It has been long enough.... I need to put my culinary skills and education to use. If you need an event catered keep us in mind and let me know.

The John Report.......

2009-05-09T12:02:00.000-07:00

As many of you know my uncle, John, has been in the hospital. He has a carepage that my awesome aunt updates everyday with pictures and all. Here is the link for all of you that are curious. It's easier to post the link than to repeat the story. Thanks
www.carepages.com/carepages/Johnsleyspage

Cheap Photographer!

2009-04-15T13:55:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to let everyone know that if you are thinking about having your pictures done this year you should use Marianne. She babysat Mckenzee when she was a baby, and was in my home ward growing up. Anyhow, She is really cheap and is running a special. Her price is $30.00 for up to 6 people and over 6 is $45.00 and a CD of your pictures is included. However if you book within 2 weeks after 4/12/09 you get 30% off your shoot. The catch is that you have to send a deposit to her now and book for September or later. She is moving back to Vegas then. You would only be paying $21.00 for a family of 6, so your deposit would only be $10.50. You can't find a better deal than that. If you want to check out her style her website is http://marianneblackhamphotography.com/ or you can e-mail her at july4th85@gmail.com to set a date.

Happy Birthday Brandon

2009-04-07T23:19:00.000-07:00

Today my little brother turned 27. I am such a lucky sister to have such a great brother. He is like a big teddy bear, he gives great hugs when I need them, he is very protective, he is hilarious and is always making me laugh, he is always there for me if I need help, and he is a very hard worker. I am glad Mckenzee could have such a great uncle.

When we were growing up we would fist fight like no other, he would threaten to stab me with forks, and he was quite the pyro, but at the end of the day I was happy to have him. He was the brother that when I was scared he would come sleep on my floor. I love him! I was always jealous of girls who had sisters, but I wouldn't change having my brother for anything. Those girls should be jealous of the brother I have. Brandon, you are the best and I appreciate you so much.

I love you and I hope you had fun today.

April Fool's!

2009-04-01T18:12:00.000-07:00

If I had to say it, April Fool's is Mckenzee's third favorite celebrated day. She loves to play jokes especially on me. I think it's funny what people think up.

On the 1st I received an email around 12 noon. The subject line said "Something has happened to your daugther." When I opened it, it was a scanned copy of this letter. It reads:

Hi this is Bobb speaking if you are reading this ha ha ha because I will be stealing your child after 3:00pm at school so you better make sure you have at least 2,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 dollars to get her back Mwowahahahahaha better call her after school wait you can't cause she doesn't have a phone. Bobb

So I text her saying:
Don't leave your teacher's classroom or go straight to the office and find Mr. Fisher. I am coming to get you. I am trying to hurry! I just got a ransom note from some Bob guy. I might be late because I am trying to get money from my bank. Please just go to the office or stay with Mrs. Roper. PLEASE! I love you! I thought I was getting her back but she didn't even get the text. When she called me later that day I had to tell her all that.

She was trying to give me a heart attack, I think.

Playing catch up.........AGAIN!

2009-03-24T11:33:00.001-07:00

I feel like I am always behind on my blogging. The months are going so quick I can barely keep it all straight. Some things we did this month include:

Mckenzee had a Field Trip at Lake Mead and I got to chaperon. It was beautiful. The lake was like glass. The students were Geologists for the day. We rode on a house boat, had lunch, and hiked up a mountain. It made for a great day.

During Reading Week the kids had to cress up like different things. One day was Workout Day. I thought Mckenzee was the cutest.

My dad turned 53 this month. I would say it was one his favorite Birthday ever. He got his dream motorcycle. Kevin says, " I don't think I have ever seen him this happy or smiling this much before". Let's just say he has not had a bad day since and we really love that for him. That night we went out for his birthday dinner. Crab legs at Green Valley Ranch ..............mmmmm.

Vegas had Extreme Make Over Home Edition. Since it was close to the house we liked to drive by and check on the progress. It was fun seeing Ty Pennington and the others. The scooter came is handy going in and out of that neighborhood. On the last day we happened to get there right after they moved the bus. We got to see Ty take the family into the house. It was fun to go. The house is pretty interesting and sticks out horribly. It will be fun to watch the episode, it will show on May 10th.

Day 3

Day 4

Day 4

My cousin, Kylan, left for the MTC on the 25th. He will be serving his mission in Japan for the next 2 years. We are going to miss him, but know he is needed there and he is going to be a great missionary.

My cousin Aryann had her baby girl, Hope, on the 30th. She is a cutie. My aunt, Cheree had her baby also. A beautiful little boy, Reese, and I am loving him to pieces. I just about see him everyday. He was born on the 28th. He is quite possibly the hairiest baby I have ever seen!

Hope

Reese

Kevin got his official Board Certification Letter in the mail. I am so proud of him and I love him crazy.

I won on the radio, AGAIN! This time I won 2 concert tickets for 3 Doors Down. It's Friday April 3. I can't wait.

I am still loving that I get to stay home. Now that I am getting use to it, I have more time for fun things, my house, meeting after meeting, and most of all the fam and that makes it all worth it!

Turning in to our parents

2009-03-24T10:59:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have the day when you say, When did I turn in to my parents? AAAAAAAA!
The other day I was having lunch with my brother and we were talking about growing up and how things are now and so on. I was asking about his wife and them moving in our house, one day, and just about life. If you know us and how we grew up, you would know that we can get a little crazy about having a clean house, thanks to our dad. He was the white glove type and unfortunately or fortunately for our families it rubbed off on us. When we were growing up we absolutely hated all the cleaning, closets, under beds, dusting, cleaning, cleaning, cleaning! He would always tell us, "Here, let me show you how to do it!" You know when your a kid and you just wipe around things? Well my dad would come and check and then make us move everything and do it over again. Ugh!

Anyway, we got on the topic and he tells me that when he is over at her parents house and they are cleaning that he helps them so that he can show them how to do it. He looked at me and said, " They have crumbs under the toaster!" and then he says, " They don't move things, they just wipe around them." So at that point he tells me that he says to them, " Here, let me show you how to do it!" Oh my how I was rollin'! That is the funniest thing I have ever heard. I just looked at him and said, " Oh, Brandon, you are so DAD!" The smile my brother gave me was priceless!

Yes, we are a little on the OCD side. Sorry! Good thing is I only feel that way about my own house, I couldn't care less about other people's. I will have to admit, I am thankful now that I learned to keep my house in order and my things nice. As Mckenzee would say, "Don't judge me!".

Asteroids? Earth? Monday?

2009-03-05T17:59:00.001-08:00

Did you hear that Earth was almost hit by an asteroid on Monday? It's pretty crazy. Check out the link. There's a little video and article followed by comments. Some of the comments are kind of funny.
http://www.boston.com/news/local/breaking_news/2009/03/phew_asteroids.html?p1=Well_MostPop_Emailed6

Hello Spring............

2009-03-02T21:52:00.000-08:00

I am so excited for Spring to finally be here!

Some things I am going to miss about Winter

Sweaters, and warm clothing

A big mug of Hot Chocolate

Relaxing on the couch with a nice blanket or Snuggie =)

Seat heaters

Some things I am looking forward to

Warm weather, lots of sun, and wearing shorts

Closer to using the pool

Day light savings , longer days

Just a couple more weeks until Spring Break
Crusin my Scooter

Flying Kites

Our Holiday Weekend

2009-02-18T21:51:00.000-08:00

My Valentine's Day started early. On Friday, my wonderful hubby had flowers delivered to me. Pink and White Calalillies. I love having flowers delivered.

Then he comes home with a ShamWow box! I was so excited! I have been wanting it for a while. It actually works pretty good. I tried it out on my rug so I could make sure it soaked up all the way through like the infomercial claims. It totally did. Then he gave me a Snuggie! LOL! I as cracking up.

He really went to get one for Kenz since she has been wanting one really bad, but he said they were running a special and so I got one also. Believe it or not they keep you really warm. Mckenzee got hers on Valentine's morning. Out of everything that was definitely her favorite.

(Hiding Mckenzee's snuggie)

On Saturday Kevin and I went to St George for the Parade of Homes. We got free tickets. If we could we would totally have a get away house there. It's just so peaceful. That night we went to our ward Valentine's Party. It was like going to the old stake dances except we were all grown up.

Sunday Kevin worked so Mckenzee and I had a Snuggie Party! We watched a movie, popped popcorn and stayed warm all night. Mckenzee said I could stay warm while snuggling my baby. I thought that was pretty funny.

(Snuggling my baby while keeping my arms warm)

Monday I took Mckenzee to one of our friends house for some horse back riding. It started raining and it got pretty cold so we didn't stay there long. We had dinner with my parents at Hash House a GO GO. It was pretty good. I just can't believe ow big the portions are.

(My Dad's Chicken pasta dinner)

( Their pancakes are massive)

For all you Moms...............................

2009-02-12T17:20:00.000-08:00

http://video.aol.com/video-detail/the-mom-song/2559649587

This is hilarious! I have probably said most of this, and she's only 11! LOL!

What we've been up to........

2009-02-09T15:37:00.000-08:00

Mckenzee.........

has been getting awesome grades. Report cards came home a couple weeks ago. She had all A's and only 1 B. They had a little awards ceremony. She got an A-B Honor Roll award and was so proud of herself. She wanted to frame it. So we did. SHe worked very hard.

Has been quit the social butterfly. She had 2 friends birthday parties this month. One was an American Idol theme. She sang So What by pink and another song by the Jonas Brothers and the other was the Next Top Model theme. She won the award for most imaginitive. I am told she had some way cute poses.

Gets to go to camp this year
Working on her science project

Kevin............

Working hard, what else is new, right!

Still dodging church callings although he has done some home teaching

When he is not working at the hospital or office, he is working on the Dragon Ridge House

Melissa...............

Not working everyday anymore....... Love it, but I miss the girls at work!

Helping Kevin in Dragon Ridge

Got another Church calling, I am going to camp as the Assistant Camp director. I am excited to be helping my awsome friend Angie, she's the Camp Director and I love that I will be with Mckenzee her first year.

Won on the radio again, I love Mix 94.1

Cleaning out closets

Trying to go to the gym 4 times a week

Kevin and I got to go see Aaron Lewis in an intimate setting concert. We had a great time! A couple of weekends ago we went to Mt Charelston to play in the snow. Afterwards we stopped at the lodge and got us a hot chocolate and sat around the fire.

Semester Exams

2009-01-13T21:34:00.002-08:00

Today Kevin and I picked Mckenzee up from school. She had Exams today. I can't believe the school year is half over. Kevin and I studied and quized her last night and she knew all the answers. When she got in the car she said, "Guess what I got on my history exam! An 84%." Me- "That's good!" Kenz- " No it's not." Kev- " What happened, you knew all the answers when we studied. Did you just fall apart when you were taking the test?" Kenz- " I guess." Then she pulls the test from her back pack and hands it to me. What the heck- She got 100% and her history exam and her grade for the semester went from a high B to and A. She was very proud and even more proud that she tricked her parents. She also got a 93% on her Science Exam. She was so proud to eat off the Celebrate Plate for dinner. I love Cumorah! It's been so worth it!

Our Crazy Decemeber

2009-01-13T21:34:00.001-08:00

Yes, I am still alive! I can't believe how busy December was for us. I don't even feel like we did a whole lot, but between the Christmas Parties, work, getting my hours at Mckenzee's school, church callings, reading Twilight, and getting ready for Christmas the time was just flying. So here's our December in a nutshell. Sorry this ones going to be a long one.

The first week of December I got really sick. I felt like I was seriously going to die. I didn't go to work for the whole week and I couldn't get off the couch for a couple of days. We refrained from going to the hospital because I didn't want to pay my insurance deductible in December. Kevin was so good to me, taking care of me, going to the grocery, making me small meals. After staying in the house for a week straight I had to get out...... I was so BORED! We decided to take Mckenzee to the Bellagio and then to the Fashion Show. She loves watching the models on the catwalk and they had a special program with Santa and it snowed at the end. We had a good time.

Kevin finally got his notification in the mail............. He is now BOARD CERTIFIED in INTERNAL MEDICINE! He is awesome and I am so proud of him! We had ice cream to celebrate.

After a really windy day we went out in the back yard to assess the damages. Our pool was horrid to say the least. We had so much garbage in the bottom, leaves, dirt, rocks, chairs, pillows, plastic bags, a neighbor kids homework. Horrible. It took days of cleaning to get it looking good again.

We had a big Christmas dinner at church for our ward party. I had to bring one of the turkeys. I brined it, wrapped it in bacon and put pancetta in between the skin and the meat and stuffed it with aromatics. It turned out so yummy. I did the same at Thanksgiving, but I didn't get a picture. If you are looking for a new way to cook a Turkey, this is definitely the way to go!

I loved that is snowed here this year, and that it was more than 1 day. Kevin and I had a snow ball fight. I especially loved driving me car in it. I didn't think I would be using the snow setting especially driving around here. When it's one the car brakes and drives itself. When the temperature is freezing, it shows a little snow flake next to the temp....... It's so cute!

Christmas was so fun, but busy as usual. Having so much family here is fun but exhausting during the holidays. My parents, Brandicellla, and my grandmother came over at 6:30. We opened presents and had a yummy breakfast. There was once again never ending presents for everyone and of course Kevin gave me the cutest present ever!

A pink scooter and white helmet with pink flames!

I absolutely love it!

(Brandon, Candice, Bella)

(Kevin's box of money from Brandon and Candice)

At about 10:30 we went to Spencer and Michelle's for Christmas #2, for breakfast and presents. Mckenzee just loves Ethan, she has really bonded with him this year.

Then back home again to get ready for Christmas #3. We went to my aunt Staci's house for dinner and gift exchange. We did it white elephant style this year. We had so much fun.

Kevin had the holiday off, so we decided to take advantage. For one of Mckenee's presents she got snowboard clothes and lessons in Brianhead. We stayed in Cedar Friday night and headed up the mountain Saturday morning. She was so excited. After getting fitted for her snow boots she passed out, not once, but twice. I went to pick her up from the med center and she was in a wheel chair with an oxygen mask on her face. Poor thing. The combination of being to hot and cold, the altitude and being over excited, her body just gave out. So down the mountain we went. We went into the city and watched Marley. It was a cute movie but it wasn't as fun as snowboarding would have been. We are going to try again in Feb. The guys at Brianhead we so awesome. Some of the nicest people, but it sure was comforting to have Kevin there!

On New Years Eve. I met some girls from work at the Juke Joint to see her husband Tony's Band, The Moronix, play. We had a good time and I made it home in time to ring in the New Year with my Honey!

( Lorraine and Cindy)

( Tony jammin on the guitar)

Sorry this was so long, I will try to keep on it this year!

Christmas, early?

2008-12-20T09:20:00.000-08:00

Christmas came a little early for Kevin this year. I surprised him with New Rims and Tires for his truck. When I got home he was already there so I took a picture of them and text him saying come outside. What a difference in the drive. He loves them! Thanks for all your help, Chad A! I couldn't have done it without ya!

Burnin' Up............

2008-12-01T14:39:00.000-08:00

Burning up is Mckenzee's favorite song sung by the Jonas Brothers. I am so glad she got to hear it live. Yep, once again we were spoiled by Kevin. Mckenzee got really good grades this semester and the Jonas Brothers just happened to be coming. Just Mckenzee and I went so we decded to make it a mother/daughter date.

We had so much fun, our seats we great, Mckenzee made a poster, and we went to dinner. I let Kenz choose where to eat. She said she was craving Sushi, so that where we went. One of the Chefs made her an apple carving dessert with caramel sauce. Yum! We thought that was neat.

( Food Carving)
I was surrounded by screaming girls. It was so loud you could barely hear the music when they first came out! Mckenzee was one of those screamers. I didn't know she could scream so loud! We had so much fun and I'm glad we got to go.

There She Blows!

2008-12-01T14:33:00.000-08:00

Mckenzee was studying Volcanoes during November. Each student in her science class had to build a volcano and it had to erupt. She did such a great job and it was so realistic. Her volcano had the best eruption out of all the others. She won 1st place. I thought her volcano was the best, but I am partial.

( look at the kid in the back ground, he brought a surgeon scrub jacket, isn't that hilarious?)

(Class Mates)

( Other Volcanoes)

I am so loving..........

2008-11-23T19:17:00.000-08:00

EDWARD. About 20 of us girls went to the opening night of Twilight on Thursday at midnight. Only 2 out of the 20 had not read the book yet, I am one of those girls. I think we liked it the best because we had no expectations. Now after seeing the movie, I am reading. After I am done, I am going to see it again. It was so fun for us all to be able to go. And on a side note, I absoluelty love having Aliante so close!

We Celebrated

2008-11-22T12:44:00.000-08:00

our anniversary by going to Phantom of the Opera on Wednesday. It is playing at the Venetian, our favorite hotel. It was a pretty good show and it was fun to get out and do something. We ate afterwards at the Grand Luxe Cafe, another one of our favs. We felt it was the way celebrating at the Venetian because that is were we stayed the night of our wedding. We had a great time.

On Friday we went to the Fab Four show at Planet Hollywood. It actually was pretty good, it was even better because we had free tickets, then we went to eat at Ventanos. It was so good. I had a gift certificate from when I won on the radio. It was the perfect FREE date night and a great way to end the week. I would totally recommend Ventanos if you are ever out that way

I'm and Auntie!

2008-11-20T21:19:00.000-08:00

Ok, so this is not the first time I am an Aunt. I have the cutest nephews and niece ever. However, My brother and his wife Candice are so hilarious. They are one of those couples that treat their animal as their child. Meet Bella! She's a cutie and they really love her. She really loves Brandon, if he leaves the room......... she freaks out. You should see how they talk to her and take her everywhere they go.

3 Years ago.............Today!

2008-11-19T14:51:00.000-08:00

I can't believe Kevin and I have been married for 3 years. The time has just flown by. It feels like we are still newly married and I am so in love with this guy. I met Kevin in Dec 2003. It was a set up by our parents. His parents came with him to dinner and my mom sprung it on me last minute........I was cooking. We had a good time and we pretty much have been together ever since. Our parents have been friends since high school and our grandparents lived across the street from each other the whole time we were growing up. We even had some of the same friends around the neighborhood. I can't believe we never knew each other. I guess it just happens when it is suppose to and I am so thankful I was the one who got him! I am the LUCKIEST girl ever! Here is to a wonderful 3 years and I am looking forward to an eternity more. Happy Anniversary Kevin. I love you!

Dating

Engagement

Wedding Day

Kevin's the Big 3-0!

2008-11-05T12:46:00.000-08:00

Today Kevin turned 30. Kevin is such an awesome person. I thought he deserved a birthday spot. He is so shy and doesn't like attention drawn to him. He is the type of person that always thinks of other people, how the might react, how is something going to effect them, etc.

He is strong in his beliefs . He studies all the time and is the BEST doctor I know.

He is a great dad and is always there to help with projects or just to talk to.

He doesn't like animals and we probably won't ever talk him into getting one. He WILL NOT eat anything white, well we narrowed that down to pretty much white sauces, and he can't have to many textures. Pretty much everything has to be plain! He thinks he is pretty funny and loves to joke around. He is one of the hardest workers I know. Kevin is a very talented carpenter, any piece of wood he touches turns in to a beautiful masterpiece!

He is an Eagle Scout. He loves cars and knows all about them. He can fix anything. If we need something built, or fixed, or adding something new. He just does it.

Kevin is a Scorpio and I think the definition defines him pretty well.

Scorpio: The best quality of Scorpio is resourcefulness. The worst quality is the ability to cause trouble. A key phrase is “I desire.” Intensity is the principal personality trait of Scorpio. Whatever career or vocational interests you pursue, you do it with tremendous force. The strength of desire is seen in every serious effort a Scorpio makes. You are proud, and can become the nemesis of anyone who insults you.

The Scorpio mental process is meditative. You can take a set of data and ponder it, penetrating the surface evidence to find the deeper meaning. You can cope with difficult and disagreeable tasks because you understand that such tasks will eventually be completed and you will return to the center of your life’s current none the worse for the effort, and perhaps stronger for the experience of surviving under pressure.

Secretive and intense, Scorpio’s temperament is sometimes difficult to tolerate. These very qualities, however, are part of the magnetism that draws people to you. The intensity can be expressed through healing or destructive energy, and only the Scorpio can determine which way you will go. Probably no sign indicates a stronger will. Personal experience teaches the Scorpio how to direct that will.

Scorpios often are rather reserved. You are unyielding to the sorts of pressure that work well with other signs, and often do well in careers where independent action is encouraged. Your ability to focus on a single task and put all your energy into it is often seem as skillful. You are often respected for your determination, but perhaps not loved, as you are not manipulators of gentle energies.

No one can exert the pressure that Scorpio can. You make devoted friends who will tell the truth boldly. When you lie, the lies are equally bold, and it may not be possible to tell the difference. The trained Scorpio mind seldom has to resort to a lie, as the truth is seen as a much stronger weapon. Desire lies at the root of all Scorpio action.

Kevin, I love you so much and hope you have a wonderful birthday!

I've been tagged again.....

2008-10-27T14:10:00.000-07:00

8 TV SHOWS

Grey's Anatomy
Desperate House Wives
Iron Chef America
Good Eats
As The World Turns
Guiding Light
Chelsey Lately
E Soup

8 PLACES I LIKE TO EAT

Hash House A Go Go
Cafe Rio
Grand Luxe Cafe
Yoko Sushi
Einstien Bagel
BJs
Pick up Stix
PF Changs

8 THINGS I DID YESTURDAY

Ate breakfast in bed
Went to church
Made a salad to take to dinner
Ate dinner at the in-laws
Made and Packed Mckenzee's lunch
Laundry
Checked e-mail
Watched TV

8 THINGS I LOOK FORWARD TO

Having dinner tonight
Possible tripto Disneyland
Eating a delish turkey for Thanksgiving
Christmas
Having a baby
Losing weight
Swimming in my pool
Not working

8 THINGS I CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT

Kevin
Mckenzee
My Family
The Gospel
Friends
My cell phone
Make-up
Hair Spray

I tag...................... Kendal

The girls will party all night long

2008-10-26T11:39:00.000-07:00

So yesterday was Mckenzee's big Halloween Party. The 1st one she's ever had. It was an all girl deal and we had about 12 show up. The kids wore their costumes and had an annonymous vote for who had the best costume. The winner won a trophy that was a skeloton holdings it's head and it just said Best Costume. It was really cute. We made a ton of food and we bought a couple of things too, just for time. On Friday Mckenzee helped me make these cute little skewers of Halloween fun. They turned out pretty cute.

Spooky Skewers, with body parts, spiders, and eyeballs; gummie of course

Our cute Green Gobbolins

We had sugar cookies, and Halloween cupcakes, A Bowl of Bones (honey mustard chicken wings), Hallowwenies, Wizard hats, and we even had gobblins, and don't forget about the bleading heart punch.

Our Halloweenie Mummies

Everything turned out so cute. We played a ton of games and we rented a spooky jump house castle, which Kevin made even more spooky by adding a little spiderweb.

These girls were the winners of the fastest mummy wrap and she was the most covered too.

And what's a party with out a pinata. Yep we had one of those too. It was a long day but well worth it. I love to hear the laugh of children, it's contagious!

This morning I woke up to breakfast in bed. Mckenzee made me pancakes for all my hard work, making her party great. She says it is everything she thought it would be. Now that is somethin' to smile about! Isn't she the sweetest!

My Friend Kendal

2008-10-24T12:56:00.000-07:00

Today is one of my bestest friend' s birthday. many of you may know her as I have been friends with her for about 16 years or so. I don't have to many of those kind of friends. Kendal is 30 today. Yep she's old! I know she is going to hate this picture when she see it, but I thought it was a great picture to show what Kendal's personality is like. Somthings that remind me of her are: Funny, Laughing until we pee, mother, Colton, Brodie, barking spiders, stubborn, hard-headed, drops anything for a friend, strong, soccer, teacher, thoughtful, hide-n-seek in the dark, 14-60, deisel jetta, Steven, KITKATS in the apartment. HAHA, church dances, Country Music, trying bathing suits on at Walmart, keeping track of miles everytime you get gas. Slumber parties, tattle telling, ditching. I could go on. I am way lucky to have such a good friend to listen to me and always help me when I need it. You are always there for me to lean on. Kendal, thanks for being a great friend to me. Love ya and I hope you have a wonderful birthday, even if you are old!

This is Halloween, This is Halloween

2008-10-24T10:02:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday we were having a little family night. We decided to start getting ready for Halloween. Mckenzee wants our house to be really scary so we were going for that. We had so much fun. Kevin built some great spiderwebs.

We are still putting on some finishing touches, but we are pretty happy with our results. Will post more pictures I'm sure.

We Have Water

2008-10-23T10:07:00.000-07:00

Tuesday was the day that our pool was officially finished. The water was in, the pool had been brushed to remove the plaster dust, the pool guy came to clean and adjust it chemically. And it was Cold! We were just so excited to finally have water we just couldn't contain it. The water was 61* at 6:30, I had my feet in but that was as far as I was going. Kevin decided that the lake doesn't get any warmer than that and since he went wakeboarding in Feb he was just going to get in, clothes and all.....he just jumped in. So then there was Mckenzee, equally excited. She jumped in, school uniform and all, except when her little head popped out she yelled, "MOMMY"! It's cold, It's cold, It's cold. She jumped out and stripped down. Kevin at least enjoyed it for a good 15 minutes or so. Mckenzee just wanted to be able to go to school and tell her friends she went swimming in 61* water in her uniform. She thought that was cool. I know we are crazy, but we love it!

It's F-F-F-Freezing

Pool Progress

2008-09-26T22:34:00.000-07:00

Just an update on the pool. It has rebar, Shotcrete, tile, and the concrete decking is now done, Oh yeah and we have a pool alarm. It's been quite the experience, so many mistakes, set backs, or something. Hopefully one day we will just laugh about them. We really just can't wait until we can swim, hopefully this year. We are just waiting for plaster....Ugh!

Kevin wanted to skateboard the pool while there was no water. Too bad we don't own a skateboard. This is what it looks like to pretend. Did you have see the episode of Rob N Big, when Rob drained his pool and rode his skateboard in it? Well this is what that reminds me of. Good Times! =)

New Do....

2008-09-26T22:29:00.000-07:00

I really felt I needed a new style, something different. It takes 5 minutes to dry and style and Kevin loves it. What more could I ask for?

I Think I'm In Love.........

2008-09-26T21:44:00.000-07:00

with my new wheels! I am so excited about my pimpin new ride! It's AWESOME!

Over Labor Day Weekend

2008-09-05T07:33:00.000-07:00

We took the advice of my friend Becky and her blog and went to Lagoon, it's near Salt Lake City, Utah. Mckenzee and I had never been and Kevin has been once, when he was like 2. We went not knowing what to really expect. We wanted to do something for Mckenzee's birthday, instaed of a party, and we really wanted to get a way for the long weekend. I have to say, I am glad we choose Utah and not California. Our drive was long, but we were not stuck in a traffic jam, the longest line we stood in was maybe 15 minutes, and it was so cheap, well compared to a week end in Cali! Mckenzee is finally tall enough to go on all the rides! She was so excited. She is quite the dare devil. She was especially excited that she finally could go on the rocket blaster, aka the big shot. When I asked her if she really wanted to go on it she said, " I have waited my whole life for this. I am definately going!".At the end of the day, before we left we played some carnival games and Mckenzee won a big pink dog proudly! We stayed in downtown Salt Lake. It was beautiful there and the weather was so nice. On Sunday, before coming home, we walked around Temple Square. It so peaceful there and Mckenzee was so interested in the history there. We are planning to take her back and do some tours and watch the movies.
We had such a great time and Mckenze even thinks is was worth not having a party!

My Birthday Girl!

2008-09-03T15:18:00.000-07:00

I can't believe today my baby girl is 11. I can't believe how fast time goes. Some things you might not know about Mckenzee.
Mckenzee was born 11 years ago as of 7:53 this morning. She was 8lbs even and 19 1/2 inches long.

She had the chicken pox before she was 2 years old.

She started calling our dog her brother when she was about 3 or 4. When we would go to the grocery store, the checkers would give suckers. Once they asked her if she had any brothers or sisters at home. She replied "yes, my brother is 10". They asked her what his name was and she replied, "Kujo". You should have seen the looks, I would smile and just laugh to myself.

She loves having mom and daughter shopping days.

Mckenzee loves animals of every kind.
She wants to be a vet

She loves watching animal planet, funniest pets, and pet vet

Mckenzee loves the Jonas Brothers

She loves roller coasters, the bigger, the faster, the better and all amusement parks

She loves to be home

She is sensitive, caring, and loves her family. She especially loves all her cousins

She loves having friends, especially the ones at her new school

Mckenzee loves having Kevin as her dad!

She loves to ask questions

When I married Kevin, she started diagnosing our neighbors with being Lactose Intolerant.

And her favorite color is blue

She loves cooking breakfast, especially pancakes

Mckenzee is just a fun loving girl, with a beautiful smile and an infectious laugh. We have so much fun together, being girls, having mom/daughter sleepovers on the tramp, telling jokes and silly dancing. She loves her family and loves spending time with everyone in it. (It's big). I am so lucky that I get to be her mom. Happy Birthday Kenz, I love you!

(Today she had free dress because it was her birthday )

Fortune............

2008-09-02T22:07:00.000-07:00

Kevin and I went to Pick Up Sticks for lunch today.

My Fortune read...........

You will inherit a large sum of money.

I think I will keep this one and I hope it comes soon!

The First Day.................

2008-08-25T16:36:00.001-07:00

It was the first day of Middle school, 6th grade. The first day of never going back to Elementary. The first day of starting a new school. The first day of starting a private school. The first day we were both nervous about going to school. So many firsts and I am proud to say, Mckenzee's fist day of 6th grade was a great one. Last night Mckenzee told me she wan't scared anymore. She was finally feeling good about starting her new school. She woke up so early this morning, I had to tell her to go back to sleep for just a little longer. When we left she started getting a little nervous, the closer we got to the school the more nervous she got.....It was killing her. Then my stomache started to hurt because I was starting to get nervous for her.
Once we got there and picked out her locker and got everything situated she was calming down. She even recognized a couple faces she new from elementary and church. At the start of the morning, when the bell rang, they gathered around the flag pole, said the pledge together, sang there school song, and opened with prayer. It was wonderful!

I love the school and I love that she had a good 1st day. I just can't get over the fact that my baby is in 6th grade, and she is only going to keep growing and it's going so fast. She only gets more fun by the day. I am so proud of her.

Things making me Smile Right Now.....

2008-08-22T20:26:00.000-07:00

They started digging our pool! We can't wait for it to be done. We are hoping to at least be able to swim before the weather turns. Luckily Vegas has great weather thru October.

(Pretending to swim)

Fancy, Smancy, new front loaders. I love 'em. They are the new GE Profiles. I only have to fill it with soap every 6 months and the dryer dries super duper fast. Like 15 minutes for a huge load. And I only have to press start on the dryer because the washer tells it what it is washing and how it needs to be dried for me. It's awesome. Yes, Kevin spoils me!

Mckenzee is getting new glasses and he had her eyes dialated. She was making me laugh because she loved wearign those little flimsy, what were suppose to be sunglasses under her little wire glasses. She reminded me of those little old ladies with their Blue Blockers.

The lease was up on my Lincoln, so I had to turn it in. Yes this would normally be a very sad thing. I so loved that car. However, I am loving to carpool with Kevin in the mornings. I love that we are able to spend a little extra time together in the mornings. Plus we get to spend more time looking at cars and finding the one that is best for us. There are so many to choose from now.

Mckenzee got a spot at Cumorah Academy. We are really excited. Today we went to tour Mckenzee's school, meet the teachers, and the staff of the school.

Have You Heard.....................

2008-08-16T01:05:00.000-07:00

The new Cafe Rio on 215 and Decatur opened Thursday. I am so excited. Kevin and I went already, twice. I could so eat there everyday. It's so good. Anyone want to go to lunch?

False Alarm...........

2008-08-13T20:40:00.000-07:00

Kevin decided I didn't have to make my blog private anymore. However, If I get anymore random comments, from let's say someone trying to get info from India, then I will have to. All you blog stalkers should be happy.

I am going.........

2008-07-28T20:56:00.000-07:00

PRIVATE ! Ok so you all know I hate the whole private blog thing, but when things get wierd, then I understand it. If you enjoy keeping up and reading our blog please e-mail me with your info or leave it as a comment. Thanks!

My Baby Graduated...........

2008-07-26T16:55:00.000-07:00

5th grade. What the heck. I can't believe I am going to have a 6th grader. On July 18th Mckenzee had her last day of Elementary. The whole week before was nothing but a big party. Monday she had an awards ceremony, Tuesday she had a pizza party with her kindergarden reading buddies, Wednesday was BBQ and Hose down. She had a great time and wasn't sad one bit to leave. She just wanted out, however she is really nervous about 6th grade. I know it's scary but she is going to do great!

I can't believe it has been 10 years

2008-07-20T10:24:00.000-07:00

Last Night I went to my 10 year reunion..... WHAT! 10 years. I just can't believe it. It was so wierd to be there and to see some of the "clicks" getting back together. What was really weird was seeing people I went to Elementary and middle school with. That was a long time ago, but we all kinda look the same. I loved seeing my old friends. I haven't really kept in touch with anyone. Only Becky, Jill, and Clint really, so it was really fun. Some have changed drastically, so it took me a minute to recognize them. I was telling Becky all night, "This is so weird". I am so glad I went.

Reunited at Last...............

2008-07-19T15:26:00.000-07:00

One of my most fav cousins came from Georgia to visit with her hubby. I have not seen her for 10 years and unfortunately we had no contact either for the last 10 years. It really sucks how things happen. She is now 18, married, and having a baby. What a beautiful person she is. She stayed with us at our house.........my first guest to use the guest room, we were so excited. Mckenzee kept telling everyone, Samantha was living with us for a while. We really enjoyed catching up and starting to rebuild and build new relationships. The family was so excited to see her again. We had a family BBQ and baby shower for her the last night they were here. The morning before they left we had breakfast at Einstein Bagels. I love that place! It was so fun, I wish they could have stayed longer. Come again soon. Maybe when you have the baby we can visit you in Georgia.

New Toys.......

2008-07-19T15:23:00.000-07:00

We got some new toys this week and FUN ones too.

1. Rock Band

2. Mario Kart

3. Wii Fit

Come Play!

VACA, Hardley..........

2008-07-16T23:02:00.000-07:00

Sorry I have not posted in a while but It has been so crazy. I wish I could say that I was gone for 8 days on a lavish vacation, No! Instead I went to Idaho and then to Ohio. It has taken me 2 weeks to catch up.
First Stop...........Idaho. My friend Kendal finally made it to the temple to be sealed with her hubby Steven. I was fortunate to be able to attend. I was only there to days. Tuesday was temple day and Wednesday we shopped all day and then went to their Parade of Homes where I got a camel toe. I had never been to Idaho, so it was nice to go. It reminded me a lot of Ohio. Her kids are such cuties! Colton is turning 4 and Brodie just turned 1. I loved that Colton is such a snugly boy. One morning he woke early, something I am Not used to, and instead of waking his mom, he crawled up and laid by me on the couch, giggled a little and fell back to sleep.

(Colton and Brodie)

(This is the "Camel Toe" I got in Idaho when I put the stupid booties on, I think you had to be there)

Next I was off to Ohio......... (This is the Ohio Sky)

luckily for me Kendal came along to keep me company and help. We had to land 3 places before arriving in Ohio. I was so ready to be off the plane. We got this rental to drive for the week

.........isn't it funny.

It's a Subaru, or as Kevin would say a Stuparu. I had to go back to take care of our house and try and find new renters while I was there. The house was in surprisingly in great shape. So not to much work had to be done on the inside, just some touch up and a little fixing here and there. A lot of work needed to be done on the outside, but we got it done. I so loved being in Ohio! I love how green and beautiful it is there. There is a waterfall there that no one knew about until recently.

I wanted to move back until I was stung by a stupid baby hornet. OUCH! I decided visiting will do just fine, there are to many flying bugs there. I even was blessed to find renters while I was there! They are really nice people.

(Rob, Jenny, Clavin, Chloe)

Seeing old friends was so great. I spent a lot of time with my good friend Jenny and her family. We eat lunch a lot and one night we played Rock Band with the kids. (Thanks Calvin for teaching me how to play.)

(Alisha)

We also got to have lunch with Alisha and I went to church and saw a few other friends. It was such a long time to be gone, but fun. I even think my family missed me a little. Thanks Kendal for helping me.

Just The Girls

2008-06-22T00:12:00.000-07:00

Boy, was it time for a girl's night or what! Tonight we went to Cafe Rio. It was so good. I love the food there and can't wait til they open the one by my house. That could be dangerous! Then we went to see Baby Mama. I laughed pretty much the whole time. It was hilarious! And these girls are so much fun! I'm so gald we got to go. It was the only showing and it was only playing at one theater. We barely made it and Totally worth seeing it in the theater. You girls are great! Thanks for hanging.

Mom, Please!

2008-06-21T23:44:00.000-07:00

Jake, Mckenzee, Trevor, Shylee

I finally broke down and took Mckenzee to Chuck-E-Cheese today. It actually wasn't bad. It has been a while since I had been there. They changed the seating and I think it works better. We got there at 11 hoping to beat some of the madness. To my surprise there was hardly anyone there. If you think about going I would suggest the earlier the better because when we decided to leave it was getting a little busy. We had a great time. Alaina and her kids, plus Trevor he is Cheree's, met us there for pizza and games. The kids were so cute and everybody had a good time. It was good for these little cousins to spend some needed time together.

It's Official

2008-06-21T23:31:00.000-07:00

So on Friday the 13th we went to dinner at the Southern Highlands golf course. It is beautiful there with all the grass. The food wasn't that great but that's ok. The highlight of the night was that Kevin recieved his certificate of completing Residencey. I can't believe that it has been two years already. Then on Saturday Kevin recieved his lisence in the mail. Oh Happy Day. Time flies by and not just when you are having fun. I am so proud of the accomplishments Kevin has made and the sacrifices he has had to endure, it has been a long road but worth it. Congratulations Kev, I love ya!

Saturday

2 years ago, finished internship
and starting at Valley

And you can call me Chef!

2008-05-31T22:11:00.001-07:00

So I am proud to announce that I can now be known as chef. OK I guess it was technically official in December when I finished school and externship and received my diploma but today, 6 months later, I had my walk. It was so fun to see all my friends and to hear all the adventures and places people are working. We had a speaker, Eric Hilton, the former Vice Chairman Hilton Hotels Corporation. He is a cute old guy and had some great words of advice. He had a great sense of humor. He started out by saying all graduating students please stand up and look under your chairs. Some had a white envelope with a 1dollar bill inside. And his quote was, " Just goes to show that you have to get off your butt to make a dollar. How true is that! I think that is great advice and a great way of putting it into perspective. Afterwards we went to a reception at the school, where I showed my parents, grandmother and Mckenzee where I was for 12 months of my life, talked with chef and sampled food. Then we all went to BJ's Brewhouse for an awesome dinner. Thanks Dad! I am so grateful for the friendships I have made and the education I have received. I want to thank my family for their support especially my wonderful husband for believing in me and making it possible. Love ya!

( Some of my classmates with Chef Sorel)

( I graduated with honors, Magma Cum Laude, these are my honor pins)

(Executive Chef Lauer and Eric Hilton)

(My proud hubby)

Where Does The Time Go?

2008-05-31T21:31:00.001-07:00

I can't believe it has been over a month since I have posted. We have been a little busy. So this one might be long one. I have been on two field trips, one with Mckenzee's fifth grade class. We went to a 51's baseball game. It was fun to go and the weather was beautiful. The last time I went to a baseball game was when they were called The Stars. Another thing............when was the last time you were on a school bus? I don't know about you but I just didn't fit like I used too. And the worst part of the time was this little kid kept blowing it up! The smell almost knocked us all out and the poor bus driver, to see her face was priceless!

The next Field trip was two weeks later and that was to UNLV where Mckenzee performed with the Honor Choir. She did such a great job and I am very proud of her.

I won twice on the Radio................yes! I said Twice! I have had some great luck this month. Who wins on the radio? It for sure was not me until I got my new phone (the Verizon EnV). It's my new lucky charm and I am going to keep trying.........It's so fun! I won a Big Dogs $50 certificate and also $50 to Vetano's Italian and Seafood.

I made the biggest calendar ever and I absolutely love it. It fits all our family activities and I even have room to fit invites so I don't have to clutter the fridge. And it's to big to miss so there are no real excuses for missing or forgetting things. (I don't know if that is a good idea to tell you, I won't be able to use that as an excuse, huh?)

Kevin has been so busy between the office and many patients to working on the house in DragonRidge. He's pretty much out there every night until 6pm or so. I am so amazed by how talented this guy is. He's great at everything he does. I for sure lucked out in there. I am spoiled because he just knows how to do everything. These are the wood beams that he has built. Aren't they awesome?!

Mckenzee decided that she wanted to try and curl her own hair. She practiced a few times with the iron unplugged, then the next morning she tried it. She did a great job..............then it happened! Her arm touched the iron. I felt so bad :(. I don't think she is going to want to try that again anytime soon. I tried to tell her that it is hard with short hair and learning to curl hair is harder than it looks!

We were able to go to the temple with my uncle and his family. They were sealed there for time and all eternity on May 17th. Congratulations Dave and Shannon. We Love ya!

On Sunday May 25. My uncle Tyler received the preisthood. Congratulations Tyler on the accomplishments you have made. We are very proud of you!

Mother's Day was awesome! I am so blessed to have such a great daugther, who is so very thoughtful of her mother. The scary thing is that I didn't even hear her making me breakfast. She made me pancakes with blueberry syrup and I also got a hawaiin king roll and a bottle of O.J.. Also on my tray were 3 roses. Everything was so delicious! She gave me two cards because she just couldn't decided which one to give me. Then in a little gold envelope box was a precious brouche that she made from beads which formed a heart in pink and of course it was in my fav color. She is so sweet and I am so lucky to have her. I love ya Kenz. Kevin had to work that morning but also came home with a little Mother's Day suprise, a frozen yogurt TCBY Turtle Cake, YUMMY! I have the best husband ever, thoughtful and caring. Thanks Hunny, I love you!

I've saved that most exciting news for last............ I GOT TO QUIT WORKING! I can't tell you how happy and excited I am. My last day was the 29th of May! I can't wait to find things to do with some of this new found freedom! YES!

A little girls night

2008-04-20T23:32:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I got to go hang out with some great ladies. Suz, Holls, Steph and I got to hang and get some dinner while the guys had an Ultimate Fighting Party, Yuck! These three girls all married my friends from high school. I just have to say.... Winston ,Mark, and Jeremy....... Thanks for marrying these great girls. I love that when we all got married our circle just grew. I had a great time, let's do it again soon. Anyone up to try Mediterranean?

Springs Preserve Saturday

2008-04-20T23:07:00.001-07:00

I finally had the chance to go to the Springs Preserve and check it out. I roped in one of my friends, Stephanie, in to coming with me. It's quite the place. I couldn't believe how much there was to do. Luckily for us we had a great tour guide, Mckenzee. She had been there once before on a field trip. We spent oer half the day there. We will be going back as we didn't nearly see everything. However we did get to eat at the Wolf Gang Puck Cafe they have there, my dad met us for that. One of my Chef Instructors from school is now head chef there. It was funny to see him there with out his chef hat and even more funny because half the kids that went to school with me work for him.

These lizards were outside and the black one was registering at 130 degrees and the white one at 101.

We got there just in time to watch one of the care takers hand feed the lizards. The girls thought the was so cool. OK, Stephanie and I thought it was fascinating also (hee hee).

This nice man says he was trying to help Stephanie out by picking her wedge, but I think he just wanted to grab her butt.... HAHA

Thanks for going with me, it was fun to hang out!

Singing, singing all the day.............

2008-04-20T22:43:00.001-07:00

Mckenzee had her first official Honor Choir Performance at Cheyenne High School for the Arts Festival. The choir sang 4 songs. One was one from Alice in wonderland. She was really nervous and she practiced all the way there. Kenz did such a great job and I am very proud of her.

Goodbye........

2008-04-18T23:46:00.000-07:00

Kevin and I were soooo sad to watch the last episode of Rob and Big this week. It was begining to be my most favorite show. We were looking forward to this season. They are hillarious! We're still so sad about it. Funny, huh! Anyway if you haven't watched an episode, you should check out their site............ I have them linked under my favorites.

Easter

2008-04-18T23:36:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how fast Easter came this year, I wasn't really prepared for it. We had such a busy weekend. We started our festivities on Saturday. My aunt Staci (Roberts side) invited the family over for Easter dinner. The food was excellent! The kids had an egg hunt and Mckenzee found the golden egg. She was really excited about that.

Easter Egg hunt at aunt Staci's

On Easter morning we went to Spencer and Michelle's house for brunch before church. Thanks for inviting us to spend time with your family Michelle. They are always fun to be around. There was a ton of food and it was all really good. When I married Kevin I gained a wonderful sister, Michelle, she is so thoughtful and Nichole and J are great too. Thanks for always thinking of me.

Easter Egg Hunt at Spencer & Michelle's

Easter Night was so crazy! I was supposed to feed the missionaries and then the next thing I knew the whole Brox clan was coming also. I made a huge dinner and the house was busting at the seams. Everyone seemed to have a great time, but I was so happy to see everyone go, by the end of the night I was EXHAUSTED! I am so glad that it only comes once a year.

Spring Break

2008-04-05T16:47:00.000-07:00

During Spring Break Mckenzee and I did a couple of things to celebrate her break. On Monday we started out the day by getting some dunkin doughnuts. I had to work and Mckenzee went to help me. I was trying to make things fun while she was with me.

My mom came down and had lunch
with Mckenzee, My uncle, and me.

Then after runs we went to see Horton Hears A Who. It was so cute. I love Disney they always have great meanings to them and they usually have some adult humor.

When we 1st arrived

Tuesday we decided that we would go and feed ducks. We went to DesertShores. I have never seen so many hungry birds in my life. As soon as you stop the car and get out they are coming out you. It wouldn't have been so bad if it weren't for those disgusting pigeons. They were trying to fly by us. As we were walking away from the car the ducks were following and more were coming. We were a little to nervous so we decided to sit in the car, roll down the windows, and feed them from there. It was the best way to feed the mob.

Feeding from the car

Girl's Night.....

2008-03-28T23:04:00.000-07:00

I am having a Girl's Night on Saturday, March 29, 2007 at my house. It's at 6:00pm. I sent out invites in e-mail form, so I am not sure who actually got them. I am cooking and Aryann is going to tell us about her product. So come get facials and a massage and just have a little girl time. Hope to see ya.

Family Snow Day

2008-03-18T17:45:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we went to Lee Canyon to play in the snow with some of our extended family. Of course Kevin was working so I drove up with my dad. Mckenzee had so much fun playing with her cousins. I haven't been near snow since we lived in Ohio. I am so thankful to live somewhere that gives us options. If we want to play in the snow or go somewhere cooler we have mountains and when we get to cold we head back for the warmth of the desert.
We brought our own lunch and ate together

Mckenzee loved going down the mountain on the sled, everytime she would go up higher than the time before.

We went to the lodge at Mt Charleston to get some hot chocolate. Being the animal lover that Mckenzee is, she had to have a picture by a horse that was there, and my uncle Tyler wanted his picture taken too.

I was Tagged

2008-03-14T23:31:00.001-07:00

Thanks a lot Aryann. I am never good at these things but I am going to give it a try. This is a tag that is all about me.

Turning Back The Time.....10 years ago: Let's see............ I was a Senior at Cimmaron. I graduated in 98. I can't believe that was 10 years ago. OK moving on......... I was a mother to a beautiful baby girl and I knew everything........Boy was I wrong! I had a great family that supported me through a lot of rough times and for that I am truly grateful.

Senior picture

5 Things On My To Do List Today: 1. Wow do I really need to clean my house. 2. Kevin and I are taking my dad to dinner for all you can eat crab legs at the Green Valley Ranch. 3. Go To Work. 4. Laundry 5. Go through the mail.

Snacks that I enjoy: I love Hummus and Nann Bread. I enjoy eating yogurt, no matter what time of day, and if I don't have yogurt I will have a bowl of cereal. A bagel with butter and cream cheese. Chocolate with caramel filling. Bananas with Reddi Whip.

What Would I Do If I Were Suddenly A Billionaire: A billion is a ton of money. I think I would 1st invest a couple million so I could make more on that billion but before that I would most likely pay my tithes. Then I would pay off all of my family's mortgages. I would pay off all my debt and build our dream home. I would buy Kevin that Dream car, BMW 760 loaded, because he works so dang hard and deserves it! I would find a charity that helps underprivileged children and donate tons to them. I am sure there is more I would do like have many girls days with shopping sprees and pedies, but I will stop here.

3 Bad Habits: 1. I bite my nails when I am nervous, mad, sad, bored, etc.. 2. I Procrastinate but I am getting better. 3. When I am stressed and under pressure I don't clean anything.

5 Places I have Lived: 1. Vegas Baby 2. Grove City, OH or as my friend Jenny would say, Grovetucky 3. North Las Vegas

I didn't quit make it to five but I have moved around Vegas quit a bit. Since I have been married I have had 4 addresses.

5 Jobs I have had: My very 1st job was at Payless Pharmacy. 2. I worked as a runner for the law firm my mom works at.......... at that time it was called Dixon, Truman, and Truman. 3. RH Donnelley (the Sprint Yellow Pages) this was one of my very favorites. 4. Dr. Douglas Prince's office, if you are looking for a GREAT DENTIST he is your man. 5. Ice Dessert Boutique, Chef Patrice makes the best Ice cream ever. He is now selling at Whole Foods and Wild Oats in Summerlin. You have got to try it!

Things People Don't Know About Me: I hardly ever put my shoes away. Sometimes I will have 3 pairs of shoes down stairs or more. No matter how many times my dad threw my shoes away when I was younger or hide them from me, I still don't put them away. You think I would have learned. I can not stand the sound of people smacking their lips and chopping food, it drives me up the wall. Really there is a lot of noises that drive me crazy but that is for sure No. 1. I am very negative about my appearance, I will always find something wrong! I hate Musicals or Theater. I giggle when I am nervous. I am kind of paranoid.......... I tend to contemplate what I would do if someone broke in all the time, where will I hide, what will I beat them with, if they cause harm to me what will I do, etc. Reality is I will probably be to scared to move. I love watching Rob and Big and just recently Snoop Dogg's Fatherhood...........Weird, I know. I love being by family but I really miss Ohio! I absolutely love being a mom and I loved being pregnant and would love to be again!

I tag .................................. Candice, Kimmy and whoever else may want to share a little part of them.

They Caught Me

2008-03-14T16:22:00.001-07:00

Well last week I was given a calling at church as being on the Enrichment Committee. I thought I was doing pretty good staying under the radar but I was caught! DANG! It has actually been better then I thought. I really didn't know what to expect. I didn't know to many people, but I have meet a ton of fabulous women in my ward. It's finally felt good to be at church. Anyhow I was a mad woman this week trying to get all the things done that was needed for our Enrichment Night. It turned out really cute. Our colors were Pink and Brown........ My fav so I made a cake and thought I would share..........

This is the cake with the replacement bow.

This is the fondant bow that I made and it broke before I could show everyone.

Sing When The Spirit Says Sing!

2008-03-14T15:58:00.000-07:00

Mckenzee had her 1st Honor Choir Performance at school last week. It was really cute. Her Music teacher is cute and looks like she is a lot of fun. She had a great aura. Anyhow, they sang two songs, but I liked the one called "Sing When The Spirit Says Sing". I guess it was written by MLK. It reminded me of listening to a Gospel Choir. It was just a fun song.

Mckenzee and Kayla, a friend from her class that also made it in to HC.

Something Fun

2008-02-26T22:46:00.000-08:00

Since Kevin is back to working some longer hours again, Mckenzee and I decided that we should do at least one fun activity everyday after school. I thought this would be a good idea so that we could keep a good relationship as she is getting older.... so fast! So far we have played golf, toured the pet store (they let Mckenzee play with a puppy,which was her most favorite), rode our bikes, Played board games, and yesterday we made cards. Mckenzee has been so excited about her new cute cousin Ethan. She has already made him his birthday card for when he turns one.

Mckenzee loved having her Uncle Brandon over to play Guitar Hero. It was so much fun! ROCK ON!

Our Valentine's Day

2008-02-15T22:26:00.000-08:00

This year I was really excited for Valentine's Day. So I set my alarm clock really early. I wanted to start the day of right for Kevin and Mckenzee so I made a special breakfast for both of them. Since it was Valentine's Day, I themed breakfast accordingly...............around hearts. Kevin's breakfast consisted of heart shaped bluberry muffins and a glass of orange juice. His little treat was a box of milk chocolate peppermint patties from See's Candies and a single red rose. Mckenzee's breakfast consisted of an egg in the shape of a heart, of course and a giant cup of hot chocolate. Her little treat was a box of assorted See's chocolates in a cute dog box. (Her favorite) She also had a single red rose. They are the loves of my life and I just wanted them to feel a little special and I hope they did.

She made it!

2008-02-11T18:03:00.000-08:00

Just thought I would let you all know that Mckenzee has seen the results and........(drum roll please)..................... she made it into Honor Choir. We are really excited for her and proud too. Looks like tonight she will be eating off the Celebrate Plate. Way to go Kenz!

Learning to Golf

2008-02-08T16:23:00.000-08:00

One other thing I forgot to mention.... Kevin bought me the cutest PINK golf clubs for Christmas. I have wanted to learn since I met him because I thought it would be fun to be able to have an activity that we could do together, something he loved. I never really mentioned it to him before, until the day before Christmas, he over heard me telling Tracy and Michelle. Then on Christmas day he brings out these way cute golf clubs that he had been hiding for weeks. What an awesome guy, he's good. So a couple weeks ago we had descent weather and we were able to go to the driving range, I have to learn how to hit the ball before we hit a course. I am actually doing pretty good. Watch out PGA, here I come. Hee Hee

Do I look like my great golfing instructor?

January-----It's over?

2008-02-06T21:27:00.000-08:00

I can't believe January has come and gone. Where does time go? Remember when you were a kid, how slow the months were? Then we grow up, right? These are some things we have been up too.

Kevin has ...........

*been working a lot!
*has been wined and dined by doctors who want the smartest guy working with them.
*played John the Baptist in a church play. (Was not to thrilled about that but was a good sport)

*helped me bake.
*tells me, "You are addicted to blogging and you need to join a bloggers annonymous!"
*apparently broke his hand.
*brought me breakfast in bed, consisting of a can of Pringles and a cup of ice water. (I loved it.)
*answering more medical questions then he wants, even after he comes home.

*worked at the VA Hospital in Rheumatology.
*took me on a date to see The Producers at the Paris.
*been the best husband and dad two girls could have.

Mckenzee has..........

*been on a Hannah Montana craze and went to her concert.
*tried out for Honor Choir. (casting will be posted on the 13th of Feb)
*been attending activity days at church and loving it. They had hair and nail day for the activity in Jan.

*having her friends over to play. (This is the first neighborhood in Vegas to have friends in it.)
*finally wearing jeans!
*singing, singing, singing.
*looking forward to having a new baby cousin and the day she can babysit.
*wants to start a dog-walking business around the neighborhood.
*getting A's and B's on her report card.

Melissa has........

*been going crazy!(not really, but it feels like it sometimes)
*started working
*started the gym (only lasted two weeks, maybe I will do better next year or who knows I could start going again)
*finally finished my black and white picture project. (Kevin says it looks to cluttered, does it?)

*formed a liking for Hannah Montana.
*been yelling at my computer!
*asking everyone if they blog.

Well that was our January. I hope that I will have more time to post in Febuary.

Meet Bob

2008-01-26T09:36:00.000-08:00

Bob is the newest member to our family. Well, he is taller than Mckenzee, so he might as well be. We call him Bob the Baker.
I have been searching for a baker man for so long, but not any one would do. And then I found it, I finally found the baker of my dreams. I have a Bistro theme for my kitchen so I thought a baker man would be the perfect thing to make it complete. I LOVE HIM! Now I just need a bigger kitchen. OHWAA HAA HAA. (that's my evil laugh)Don't you think he is the cutest?

A real candidate

2008-01-15T17:03:00.000-08:00

Need I say more.....

2008-01-14T20:28:00.001-08:00

I had to post this after I read Michelle and Nichole's Blogs. Sorry girls.

Life's too Short

2008-01-09T12:43:00.000-08:00

I am so sad to write that our friend, Ryan Rich, died on Friday the 4th. He was a resident at Valley with Kevin. I have been so uneasy since I found out that he passed. I don't know what it is. I have been thinking about it a lot and maybe it is because he was young and had so much to look forward to or maybe it is because he is leaving behind a beautiful daughter. Maybe it's because his live was much like Kevin's. Working for the same goals. Saving lives. Supporting your small family. When your husband is a doctor, you don't think that he might not come home. He is out there saving people and then he comes home. It makes me think a lot about my own life. The arguing is not worth it. You just don't know what the day is going to bring. So for my New Years Resolution........ I am going to be a better Wife, Mother, Friend, Sister and Sister-N-Law, Aunt, Daughter. I tend to get a little crazy when it comes to the little stuff, like wanting the house spotless, but I decided that I can't let those little things get in the way and make my family miserable. Someone once told me, "Love, Laugh, and Kiss Everyday. Never go to bed mad at each other. Life is short and you are never promised tomorrow". I just want my family to be happy and know I love them. Maybe in the grand scheme of things this tragedy is a blessing to me because I am able to step back and evaluate the important things in my life, the things I treasure the most. Ryan was a good guy and was going to be a great doctor I am sure.

Celebrate

2007-12-29T21:45:00.000-08:00

Well, Culinary school is over! I thought that I would be ecstatic....... Don't get me wrong, I am so happy, but a part of me is a little sad. I met some wonderful people and great friends that I am really going to miss. We became this great big family.... so it's a little sad. It seemed like it was never going to end, during that first month, but the last couple of months flew by. I can't believe it is over. I finished my externship on Friday. I was training under Chef Patrice Calliot, who might I add, is a World Pastry Champion. I learned so much there and am so grateful I was able to learn from him. He is an awesome Chef! I just thought I would show you some pictures from the last day we were physically in the school on the day of "Glory Walk". I can't believe I am a Chef. Crazy, Never would have thought that. One thing is, I am glad that I will be able to spend some needed time with my family now that school is over. I am so grateful to them for thier patience while I was earning my degree.

I just checked my grades and my overall grade point average is a 3.74. I am excited! Actual graduation walk is in May.

So I havent' been the best

2007-12-23T02:03:00.000-08:00

So...................... I haven't been the best blogger since I tried to start in on this new trend. Life has been so hectic lately. My New Year's resolution will be to be better. I finally got my house pretty much together, but it's not all the way there. I hope to have it done in January, I just had to take a break for the holidays. I just wanted to write something so you wouldn't give up on my blog. I AM TRYING! I don't just don't know how to do this whole thing yet. Anyhow last week I made ginger bread cookies at work and brought them home for us to decorate for a Family Night. Mckenzee was having so much fun. She loves her aunt Michelle, who by the way is pregnant, and she decorated this cookie to look like her. I thought it was so cute. I love the belly. I hope that everyone has a Very Happy Holiday

Welcome to the Dunsmoor's Blog!

2007-11-13T17:20:00.000-08:00