The Life and Creations of Jeannette

True Love

2012-02-05T20:54:00.001-07:00

"...Respect comes of recognition that each of us is a son or daughter of God, endowed with something of his divine nature, that each is an individual entitled to expression and cultivation of individual talents and deserving of forbearance, of patience, of understanding, of courtesy, of thoughtful consideration. True love is not so much a matter of romance as it is a matter of anxious concern for the well being of one’s companion."

-President Gordon B. Hinckley

Skinny Jean Controversy

2011-12-07T13:42:00.005-07:00

I am trying to calm myself down over this incredibly ridiculous controversy right now. My friend just told me to have a Chicago dog (they're our favorite from Sonic) and a coke to make it all better. Well I have my coke in hand and am seriously working on it.

Why am I so worked up about this? Well you see, I graduated from BYU-Idaho and absolutely loved my college experience. So much my husband decided he wanted to go to school there and is going to graduate come April. He runs the Student Health Center on campus and is very involved in the every day campus activity. We both very much appreciate our college experience and it hurts us to see both the school and our beloved church get so bombarded with all this negative publicity. All because of an incident at the Testing Center where an employee's pride took precedence over what was right in the situation. And then to see comments in all these articles from students attending the school stating the dress code is "ridiculous" is incredibly frustrating as well. You have to sign the honor code in order to attend the school, so you KNOW beforehand what the rules are and what your getting yourself into. So if your not grateful for your experience there and the rules that go along with going to school, DON'T GO TO SCHOOL THERE! And then tell the world that you don't agree with the school's honor code that you signed? Gosh. There are tons of people who don't get into BYU-I that I know would be more grateful for their EDUCATION than so many of these ungrateful people complaining about silly dress codes. Sure I murmured once or twice about not being able to wear certain clothing items, but I enjoyed my college experience more than I missed flip flops or Capri's. Perspective people.

I feel sorry for the girl that got turned away. She got caught in the middle of a change in rules and didn't deserve the way she was treated. I hope she receives an apology from that guy, she deserves one. Here is the article of the ACTUAL story of what happened. I believe in honest and factual journalism, which seems to be lacking nowadays:

On November 8^th the Testing Center began a campaign to remind students of the CES Dress and Grooming Standards. The campaign has gained the attention and criticism of many students.

Some students have encountered resistance from Testing Center officials when attempting to enter the facility because of excessively tight pants.

Self-described as “curvy,” Rachel Vermillion, a senior studying psychology, took a test in the afternoon of the day that the new rule was implemented.

Afterwards she attended another class, studied for her second test of the day and attended a leadership meeting with her bishop as a member of her ward’s Relief Society presidency. From there she went directly to the Testing Center.

At 8:30 p.m., 30 minutes before the Testing Center was scheduled to close, Vermillion entered the facility prepared to take her test and was told by an employee there that she would not be permitted to enter.

“I got in line and the guy said that I couldn’t take a test because my pants were too tight,” Vermillion said. “I thought he was joking at first.”

Vermillion wasn’t given a warning, despite the Testing Center’s history of issuing warnings to students for similar violations of the CES Dress and Grooming Standards.

“I thought it was going to be like, ‘Next time, wear a different pair of pants,’” Vermillion said. “I’d never gotten a warning. I pointed out to him girls around me who had gotten in who were wearing jeans much tighter than my pants, but he just said, ‘It’s at the discretion of the Testing Center employees.’ He got very angry and was very rude.”

“When I told him that I lived 20 minutes away from Rexburg and that if I went home to change and came back the Testing Center would be closed, he just said, ‘That’s not my problem.’”

Even when a fellow employee attempted to persuade him to allow Vermillion to take her test, he did not relent.

“Another girl who worked there told him that the pants I was wearing were looser than hers,” Vermillion said. “It was really frustrating because there were skinny girls who were wearing tight pants who were getting admitted, but I’m curvy so my regular-fitting pants were a little bit tighter on me and he wouldn’t let me in. It was offensive and humiliating.”

John Dexter, manager of the Testing Center, acknowledged that some staff members have been more zealous than others in enforcing the dress code.

“I do have a couple of staff who have inadvertently sent people away on their own,” Dexter said. “That isn’t something we enforce. That’s because of poor communication. We’ve struggled with this and figuring out how to do it without embarrassing people unduly.”

Last month a sign was posted at the Testing Center that read, “If your pants are tight enough to see the shape of your leg, your pants are too tight. The CES Dress and Grooming Standards state that: ‘Clothing is inappropriate when it is . . . formfitting.’ Skin tight clothing is NOT appropriate attire.”

Concluding this notice was a short paragraph that read, “If your clothing or attitude does not meet the commitments you have made to live the Honor Code, will you please go home and prayerfully visit with your Father in Heaven and recommit yourself to be a true disciple and abide by the Honor Code that defines your commitment to be a disciple.” The sign was replaced three days later.

“I decided after a couple weeks of prayerful consideration and some discussions here in our staff that something had to be done. I put out one sign; I tend to be a little bit rash, but we modified it so that it’s not too harsh,” Dexter said.

Today there stands a similar sign, but with the concluding paragraph reading, “If you don’t understand the Dress and Grooming standards, we invite you to go to the Lord ‘and ask in faith, nothing wavering’ for approval of the clothing you wear. The Spirit will tell you whether what you are wearing is appropriate or not.”

In response to students who feel that formfitting jeans are appropriate, Dexter said, “If a student prays and they think that the tight ‘formfitting’ clothing is accepted by the Lord, they have not asked, or have not asked the right question, or they have chosen an answer for their own gratification. I don’t believe the Lord would give approval to anyone to be disobedient to the CES Dress and Grooming Standards.”

The Testing Center has not made any policy changes. They are reminding students of the Dress and Grooming Standards against formfitting clothing.

“This has been a CES standard for as long as I’ve been here,” Dexter said. “All we’re doing is quoting the CES policy.”

The Testing Center has been criticized for not communicating the stricter enforcement of BYU-Idaho’s formfitting clothing policy.

“I don’t care if they require me to wear a burqa,” Vermillion said, “but they should really let you know beforehand. I had just come from a meeting with my bishop, but I couldn’t get into the Testing Center.”

To view the actual article go here.

UPDATE: Its hard to avoid all the controversy surrounding this matter. I stumbled upon this comment from someone who said it better than I am trying to:

David Mihok

They didn't actually overrule a school policy...It was just testing center employees letting power get to their heads. You will find no official pronouncement that skinny jeans are not allowed, nor any statement by an official suggesting it.

Instead, you can look here: https://www.facebook.com/BYUID at the most recent statement, and in fact, the only statement by the school.

There are a number of articles starting to pop up by the school that make it abundantly clear that the testing center was not acting with official sanction

My Sign

2011-10-29T11:52:00.007-06:00

I had a post all typed up to share, but it didn't feel quite right. I didn't feel like I was expressing myself quite right. So I saved it to get back to later. Then I read my friend's wife's blog, and everything that I have been feeling and wanting to say was laid out so perfectly right there. So perfectly in fact I won't say much except send you over to her blog to read what needs to be said for all women who are going through what I am.

To also help, I read another friends blog and she referenced a blog she came across about trials we go through and if only we had signs to share with everyone so we would know and be more sensitive towards one another. If we only knew what each other are going through. You can read the inspiring story HERE. What would my sign be?

"I want so badly to be a mother and am struggling to get pregnant"

Is Ignorance Bliss?

2011-10-24T12:10:00.002-06:00

My blood is seriously boiling right now. I just don't understand people these days and how they live with their consciences. My favorite blogger is Kendi and thought I would Google her to see what additional info I could find on her. Well lo and behold I find this website that dedicates a post to bashing her. I couldn't believe what I was reading! And there were tons of comments that continue the bashing and hating. Well I'm curious as to what this website was all about and turns out it is solely for the purpose of making fun of people, "Get Off My Internets is a blog providing commentary – and offering opportunities to discuss – the stupid things people do online." Really? So people sit around all day researching peoples blogs and websites to find things to make fun about them. Wow. Seriously pathetic. I understand freedom of speech is a wonderful thing, but for it to be used to only degrade someone is just wrong. I was so outraged I wrote the website's authors and email:

"Wow. You guys seriously spend your days making fun of people? You don't have ANYTHING better to do than make fun of people?!? Whats sad is that there are people out there as ignorant as you that read your blog. Its seriously pathetic. What ever happened to being decent? This world is going to crap because of people like you. Filling people with animosity and hatred towards one another is whats causing all these epidemics of bullying and suicides. Can you honestly say you sleep at night knowing your apart of that? Or are you THAT oblivious to what you are doing? Like I said...ignorant. "

They'll probably just laugh it off and send some snide reply back. I just wanted them to know that there's at least one person out there that does not approve of what they are doing.

A Foreign Reaction

2011-10-06T20:27:00.000-06:00

I have found myself in a new situation I've never been in before. We just received what should be exciting news from Jame's best friend, but instead of my normal elated reaction, a foreign one came to me. Madness. Anger. Sadness. And then guilt. I should be happy for them. Why can't I just be happy for them? They're good people. They deserve all the blessings they can get. But I do also, right? So why can't I get them as well?

This is all new to me, and am learning along the way how to process it all. I know Heavenly Father loves me and has great many things in store, I'm just having a hard time with the patience aspect of it all. In the mean time, I'm gonna go make some brownies and play with Doccers. He's good for my soul.

Outfit Inspirations and More...

2011-10-02T21:22:00.005-06:00

So, I take a million pictures and then don't do anything with them. Shame on me. Well I finally kicked my butt in gear and put a couple together for this neglected blog of mine. Its a random layout of things that I felt would be cool to share.

This is an organizing idea I originally had at our old apartment in Idaho Falls, which ended up being needed at our new place in Rexburg. With no drawers, I made a make-shift shelf using a tall shower shelf. It works awesome!

We finally got some tomatoes this summer! Mind you we only got about 5 of them and they were tiny, nonetheless we had some. They tasted amazing, I am for sure going to be growing more next year. In a real plot of land, no more buckets.

This is a head wrap I made using a scarf. I found the instructions on how to do it via my beloved Pinterest, you can find it here.

This was supposed to be "The Best Chocolate Cake" and I have to report that it was not. It was pretty good, but I would certainly wouldn't classify it as "The Best". Especially the icing, yuck! It was also classified as the "Best Buttercream Frosting Ever", and it completely fell short. Instead of butter it called for shortening, and the inexperienced baker that I am didn't think about it. Until I tasted it, eww! It tasted like sweet chalk. I understand it's supposed to be less fattening, but your eating cake! Its supposed to be fattening! Never again. Next time I'm making it with good old butter. Im so sorry Julia Child for letting you down. I will never turn my back on butter again.

So now onto outfits. On the sidebar of my blog you should notice a button that says "I'm a thriftoholic." These outfits are proof of that. This first one is a thrifted outfit in its entirety. Shirt, skirt and shoes. Total cost, $10! I loved the final 50's vibe I ended up getting from it.

So this outfit just might be a new favorite. The first picture is from a website I just started using called Polyvore. It's so much fun! Im using it to help me with putting outfits together with items that I already have. I've been able to get a quite of few items on there that are pretty dang close to what I have already have, so I can imagine the actual outfit, like this one! The only thrifted item in the outfit is my purse, which is actually a COACH! And I bought it for only $5! Granted its older and a little out of date, but I LOVE it. Its so convenient for running around town and its real true leather. Plus its a Coach! (P.S. I love how Doc is looking at me as if to say, "uh, what are you doing? take me outside already!")

Now here's an awesome thrifted shirt I got for $1. Super comfy and I love the printed detail. I have to say another big reason Im posting this pic is cause I was really happy with my hair that day. Its getting long and Im having few and far between good hair days, so I have to document it while it is long and looking good! Its getting chopped off soon. I just cant handle long hair. I was born to have short locks.

And last but not least, my cute little Doccers snuggled up in my dresses and shoes.

He knows good fashion when he see's it.

Miracles

2011-08-25T10:37:00.002-06:00

Well I made it back from California safely, thanks so much for the well wishes! I am truly blessed with wonderful people in my life:)

Well this post is really about some thoughts I am having right now and felt impressed to document and share. An old high school friend and his wife just recently adopted a beautiful baby boy. I am so happy for them in this time in their life. In some of the comments they received on Facebook, people mention the word "miracle". I got to thinking about that, being that this baby came from someone who could not keep him, who knew they could not raise him and had to give him to someone else who could. The dictionary describes a miracle as:

* such an effect or event manifesting or considered as a work of God.

* a wonder; marvel.

I was having conflicting feelings about this event being described as a "miracle". In my religion, we believe in chastity, saving relations between a man and woman until marriage. That children should be brought into a family, with a husband and wife. So how could an unwed woman have a child and then give it up for adoption be considered a miracle? Well, after pondering a lot on this, I really, truly feel that everything happens for a reason. My friend and his wife would not be able to raise children in this life if it not were for this woman's sacrifice. Yes, it is unfortunate circumstances, but in the end it is a miracle. How else were they to raise a child if it not were for this woman? This was no accident. This was part of Heavenly Father's plan. So many times great things come out of unfortunate circumstances, this being the greatest of them all. James and I very much want to adopt, we have talked about it a lot. I don't know if I'll be able to bear my own children, but I have a peace of mind that if not, there are children out there waiting for good homes and loving parents. And even if not in this life, we will in the next. Because this life isn't just it, there are still so many great things to come.

Nerve Wracking

2011-08-09T11:20:00.001-06:00

Im sitting here all sorts of nervous...why? In a couple hours I'm getting on a plane headed for CALFORNIA! Why? Because I got a job with Google and they're flying me out to their headquarters for training! Training for what? Driving a car that they're giving me to drive back from California with around Idaho Falls and the surrounding area mapping out the are for Google Maps! All this is true information, I'm not making it up. It took me a while to believe it myself. The story: one of James friends works at Verizon and told him there was a job opening that I should apply for. I went in to the store, interviewed, and walked out not planning on taking the position due to the a) the hours b) having to stand on my feet all day (the position was for a store greeter.) The pay was great, but I liked my current temp job (the hours were great, 5:30-2, I LOVED having the afternoons.) Well a week later the temp agency that had offered the job for Verizon called me to let me know there was a recent job position that had the hours I was looking for. I was the first person they called for this job! So naturally when she's telling me everything about the job, that they're gonna be flying me out to California, all expenses paid, then gonna be driving a car around town all day for my job, of course I said yes! And I didn't even have to interview or anything, since Verizon had offered me the previous position I was an automatic shoe in since Verizon has the same strict hiring standards as Google. Oh, and the pay is outstanding. Pretty much I am the luckiest girl, I am SO grateful for my blessings.

Really the most nerve wracking thing of it all is having to drive this car from California back to Idaho, having never been to California before and never driven that long by myself before. They set me up in a hotel in Winnemucca, Nevada which is half way in between so I don't have to drive straight through which is nice. But still, Im nervous. And flying. I HATE flying, with a passion. Any and all prayers will be very much appreciated, thank you:)

So, this is where I will be spending my free time when I'm not in training...which is tomorrow 9-5, so I have all evening tonight and tomorrow night to myself!

Aaah, can't wait.

Pinterific!

2011-07-12T17:45:00.004-06:00

I finally got on to Pinterest, FINALLY! You have to get invited in order to get on, so if you've been dying to get on let me know, or are just curious, I just might be nice enough to send you one:) All I need is an email address to send it to.

I've been having so much fun with it, and getting so many AWESOME ideas. I love how creative people are, and being able to use they're ideas is even better!

(this is the first idea I got from Pinterest, it was so easy!

I was a little sloppy my first time, but next time i'll be much more careful,

and think I might try images in the paper as well.)

(I totally forgot to add this one when I initially posted this.

I want to do it over again, the lighting isn't quite right for my liking.)

Wanna see what its all about? Check out my account HERE. I promise you'll love it. But WARNING: it does tend to be a time sucker, I've spent so much time on there! I have to give myself time limits now, otherwise I could seriously spend all day looking at other peoples pins. Its just that much fun!

2011-07-01T22:05:00.000-06:00

This was an AMAZING movie, an incredible inspiring story. I give it two thumbs way up, 5 stars, and all the credit it deserves. I highly recommend watching it, a great family movie.

Maternity

2011-06-24T00:28:00.000-06:00

Nope, not referring to me. My time will come, do not worry (here's hoping at least.) For now, I live vicariously through my pregnant friends. Here are some maternity pictures I did for my dear friend Nicole. She had a sweet baby boy who I hold as much as I can.

Consignment = Love

2011-06-13T20:46:00.004-06:00

Its funny. When I was a kid I HATED secondhand clothes. Absolutely hated them. But now, I LOVE them! Being that James is in school right now we have a tight budget, so I don't get to shop as much as I use to when we were making good money in Missouri. But I found a loop hole: CONSIGNMENT! There are two awesome stores in town that I frequent often, Lily's & Lily's Two. There's a long drawn out story of how Lily's Two came to be so I won't get into that, but pretty much they always have the best finds, and good quality ones too! I always manage to find items from J Crew, Abercrombie & Fitch, The Limited, New York & Co., Calvin Klein, & many more. The best part of it all, I get all these name brand items for under $10! The best find yet is a gorgeous dress from J Crew for only $2! Granted these items have been previously worn by someone else, but I always make sure its in good condition so I know the person before took good care of it. Plus, after a good run through the washer machine (or in some cases the dry cleaners, I figure I saved a ton of money buying it, its worth spending a couple extra bucks getting it proffesionaly cleaned if needs be) its good as new! Ah, the combination of being thrifty and fulfilling the ~~need~~ want for new pretty things is just glorious!

Here are a couple finds worth sharing

Clockwise from top left:

wrap cardigan from Maurices $3, dress from J Crew $2, skirt Old Navy $1, blouse from Charlotte Russe $2,

sweater cardigan from Calvin Klein $6

Left: wedges from Nordstrom (brand BP.) $1!, Right: wedges from JC Penney (brand Decree) $2

Clockwise from top left:

dress unknown brand $1, halter blouse unknown brand $2, skirt by Stephanie Andrews $4,

skirt from Macy's (brand Ellen Tracy) $4, blouse from DownEast $2

large bag by Duex Lux $10

(you might be thinking "$10 is a lot for a used bag." But if you look here a similar bag is $150!

It had a never been used shoulder strap and has no imperfections whatsoever.

I use it all the time now for church, so I'm thinking I got a pretty good deal.)

I have some more finds that are definitely post worthy that are sure to find their way on here. I can't help but share my love cheap goods!

Addendum: JoJo made a good point I forgot to mention...I bring in my old clothes and use the store credit for future purchases! So I'll always have at least a $3-$5 credit every time I shop, so I'm always getting at least 1-2 things for free! Thanks for reminding me Amy!

Update

2011-05-28T21:54:00.000-06:00

First, thank you all SO much for all your kind words andlove. They have indeed been felt and needed. This has been a very emotionallydraining visit to say the least. Everyday we're hearing new stories, newupdates. The death toll keeps rising. When we first got here, it was around116, today it rose to 139. Theres still about 100 people missing. We are soblessed to not have any family or friends injured or displaced by the tornado.Everyone you meet out here though was in one way or another affected by it.Just going to get food or going to the store, the conversation always comes up"so where were you when the tornado hit?" A lady at Taco Bell hadfamily missing who were right in its path. When people ask us we tell them werehere from Idaho helping out, and theyre shocked. And then you hear about allthe people from all over that came out to help. The amount of volunteers hereis overwhelming. For several days we drove around asking who needed help andthey tell us someone already came by and helped them. I signed up at a localorganization to volunteer and there were more volunteers than people to help. Ithen went over to the local college Missouri Southern State University andsigned up and was sent over with a crew to clean up fallen trees. When we firstgot there a man approached us and asked us to keep our eyes out for his youngnephew. It was the story everyone had heard about. A 16 year old sucked out ofhis car returning from graduation and was no where to be found. And we wereasked to look for him while cleaning up the trees. Just unreal. Today he wasfound in a river. James Dad works at Freeman Hospital and has told us so manystories of people that came flooded into the hospital that are just heartwrenching, one in particular. A woman was holding onto her 16 month old son sotight that she broke both her arms, but he was still ripped out her arms. Theyjust found him recently as well. So many stories, so much heart ache. We wereable to clean up a lady's yard who wasnt home but her neighbor said she wouldappreciate it. There was a tree uprooted that we cut up and brought to thecurb. Turned out that the tree also broke a water pipe in the ground and wasflooding the yard. We were there when the water company was driving by checkingon houses and was able to get them to turn the water off. If we werent therewho knows how much water would have dumped out and how high her water billwould have been. We also helped out James friends sister who had some downtrees as well. Since theres so many volunteers we've been finding other ways tohelp, like getting James friends house ready to rent out to someone displaced,and James dad who has been putting in a ton of overtime at the hospital aroundhere on the farm. Weve definitely been busy, and are very tired. I have a lotof cuts and bruises to show for the hard work, and wear them with pride. Thatbeing said, Im exhausted and am going to call it a night. For now Ill share theone picture that tugs on my heart the most. Theres a lot more to come, but thiswill do for now.

Total Devastation

2011-05-23T09:42:00.000-06:00

Im still in shock over the tornado yesterday in Joplin, MO. I cant believe my eyes. Right where we use to live, places we use to go everyday. Places I use to WORK, where my in-laws work. Where family and friends still LIVE. James best friend Jared's neighborhood is gone, amazingly, his house is okay. Just a bent Dish Satellite and no power or water. But you walk out his front door and just a couple houses down, totally gone. He went out to help people, and saved a couple people pulling them from the rubbel. Unfortunately, there were some lives that he couldn't save. Even as tragic as a pregnant lady, in his words "she was just...dead." Im not quite sure how to process all this still. Seeing the images that I know where they are, but are just unrecognizable, not the same. Its still all so surreal. Its always hard to hear of devastation around the country and world. It always brings me to tears. And then you see it hit your home, and it becomes personal and that much more devastating. I love nature and always thank God for it, and then you see this happen and for a second you question that love. How could He make something this horrible happen? That ruins peoples lives? That takes peoples lives? I dont have an answer for it, but I have faith that there is an answer. Its just so very hard in the mean time. I keep praying for them in hopes that they find some faith as well.

I Forget...

2011-05-11T22:02:00.000-06:00

I'm realizing I forget a lot about what this blog was intended for. I get caught up in wanting to post something great, something either interesting or fun or artsy. As I sit here filled with all sorts of emotions, I remembered my blog is my journal, my outlet. I should be able to share how I feel, and maybe not in a completely candid nature since this is a blog, but still be able to write (or should I say 'type') it out...

I feel overwhelmed...
anxious
hurt
mad
sad
stressed...

HOPEFUL

Hopeful that everything will turn out alright. That the things that hurt me won't anymore, and that I can become stronger because of them. That I'll be a better wife and mother because of them. I have fallen short on a lot of the roles I play in my life, but I know those are the two that I really can strive on becoming great at. I've been experiencing a lot of trials lately, a lot of set backs, but it seems that instead of James and I growing apart, were actually growing stronger. Which is surprising to me, because we've been through a lot in the almost 5 years we've been married, and I thought for sure these trials would really test us and bring us to our knees. Well, they have brought us to our knees, but in the greatest way possible. I am so grateful for the Gospel, for a Heavenly Father that I can pray to and know that He hears both James and my prayers. That through my Savior I can become whole and my weaknesses can become strengths. I know there will greater trials awaiting us, but I have faith that we can always become stronger together because of them.

Totally Post Worth

2011-04-01T10:49:00.001-06:00

I am overwhelmed with pride right now over the hubby. I am so grateful for an ambitious husband who is a go getter and knows how to get things done. He recently got a highly sought after internship with the main hospital in our area, Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center, working specifically with the COO, Chief Operating Officer. He went to a group thing with his health care class last night at the hospital where they got to do a Q&A with the CEO & COO. He got to talk to him one on one as well, and after telling him that he'll be doing an internship there this summer, the CEO told him that he was "lucky", and that very few get the opportunity to do so. WOW! Also recently, James got a TA (teachers assistant) position with the head of the health care dept, Bro. Tolman, who also use to be the CEO of EIRMC. Its paid which will be really nice, and will look AWESOME on his resume. After last nights group meeting, James also got to talk to the COO, he introduced himself and set up a lunch meeting to go over the internship and just to get a 'heads up'. This is all just hitting me, making me realize just how much James is setting himself up for success. He doesn't just sit back and wait for things to happen, he is MAKING things happen. He is a great example to me of hard work and am very grateful for that.

"lovers dance when they're feeling in love"

2011-03-14T21:43:00.000-06:00

my favorite song right now. i could listen to it over, and over, and over...oh wait, i have been. ah love.

(side note: He Is We could also easily be my new favorite music group right now. they're album My Forever is amazing. pure amazingness)

"Coming Home"

2011-02-21T16:31:00.000-07:00

Oh man, just watching this preview brings me to tears. Itsabout time they make a show like this. I am counting down the days till itairs, and stocking up on Kleenex.

"lovely day, lovely day"

2011-02-17T22:53:00.000-07:00

When trying to think of what to name this post, the very first thing that popped in my head was the song "Lovely Day" by Bill Withers. I LOVE that song and felt it described exactly what I wanted to share. In case you haven't heard it, it should be playing right now at this very moment on my playlist. Turn it up, its good stuff I promise.

So today I had quite possibly the best day I've had in a really long time. I finally felt like myself after battling the flu and an ear infection. That's always good no matter what's going on. I had a really good day at work, I got a lot done, felt accomplished, and enjoyed everyone's company. Not to mention had the BEST burger ever for lunch (I get free lunch every day at work, did I mention I have the best job ever?) Ok, now I have to share what it was. It was from the Snake Bite in downtown Idaho Falls, right around the corner from where I work. Its a cute little hole in the wall restaurant where hip people go. Anywho, I digress. The burger. Its called the Blue Snake River, a blackened burger with a bleu cheese & green chilies dressing & bacon, on a croissant type bun. oh. my. heavens. SOOOO GOOD. Ok, enough about the burger, back to my lovely day. I get home and enjoy time with James watching our favorite show The Big Bang Theory which was exceptionally funny and eating some awesome Chinese food (which I couldn't eat very much of because of my previous high caloried burger for lunch, my stomach just couldn't handle all this yummy food). Went to James' basketball game and enjoyed not only watching the game but spending it with some good friends from my ward. Then came home, oh wait I forgot about Doc! He got groomed today and looks oh so adorable. I just love my best friend:) Oh yeah, I also forgot I was able to return my rental car this morning and get my car back. Long story short, a kid hit me a couple weeks ago, nothing major, and had to get it fixed which took a couple days. His insurance is paying for everything, the insurance company was surprisingly very cooperative, they're not usually, I should know I deal with them everyday at work. Not personally, I only get the claim info initially, but I get to listen to my lawyer boss chew them out. Its quite amusing actually. Ok ok, where was I. Oh yeah, I got back from basketball and enjoyed some more time with James and Doc, and then went over to my neighbors/friend/ward members house for her knitting night with some others and enjoyed their company for a while. Came home, watched another one of our shows and here I am. Ready for bed and felt like it wouldn't do my day justice if I didn't document it. It's so important to remember the good days to get you through the hard ones. Oh, and I read this today on a blog I follow:

"If we are afraid to do what we want, or are insecure of what others may think, then thoughts stay thoughts, visions stay visions, dreams stay dreams and good lighting passes us by."

Ah, time for bed. Nothing like ending on a good note.

love, love, LOVE

2011-02-09T13:02:00.000-07:00

I found this awesome site through my awesome friend Des. If your ever in the mood to look at some sweet wedding videos, definitely visit it. I promise you wont be disappointed, I could spend all day on there. To enter pure bliss click here!

Wardrobe Challenge: Re-Do

2011-01-31T22:39:00.002-07:00

Remember forever ago when I decided I was going to do my wardrobe challenge? Yeah, I'm not gonna lie, Im a slacker and havent really kept up with it. Oops. I did for a little bit back in November when I started my new job (oh yeah, I have a new job!! Im a paralegal for a law firm, Brent Gordon Law, and its hands down best job ever! But thats a whole other post) and I did it for, oh, maybe a week? Well Ive stumbled upon a fabulous new blog that Ive linked to my Sites to See, and she has this awesome challenge she does each season: 30 for 30. Well I got all excited to be a part of it, I picked out all my 30 items and was so excited to start it. But then I realized, I was abandoning my original challenge and I couldnt do that. I needed to follow through with it before I started on something else. So I thought to myself, why not kind of mix the two together? Genius! So, I have combined my 30 items to remix with the items I set aside for my Wardrobe Challenge, and they are living together in harmony. So, to keep myself in check and accountable for all of this, I will try my best to update my progress on here. But, Im not holding my breath, I have a feeling if I did there would be some CPR going on fairly soon.

(these are a few of the items that were in my 30 for 30, but also in my Wardrobe Challenge)

A Flick Worth Watching

2011-01-25T09:12:00.000-07:00

Um, I loved this movie. I love Emily Blunt, she did an amazing job. And Rupert Friend, I thought the name and his face looked familiar, and sure enough he is in another movie I adore, Pride & Prejudice, except in that one he plays the evil Mr. Wickham. Ahh, after watching this last night I wanted to watch it again, and again. Such a good love story.

Behind the Scenes

2010-12-13T21:12:00.001-07:00

You may think
I’m just fine
How could anything
Ever be out of line?

I take my time
To set the stage
To make sure everything
Is all in place

Even though I’ve got the lines rehearsed
A picture only paints a thousand words

Things aren’t always what they seem
You’re only seeing part of me
There’s more than you could ever know
Behind the scenes
I’m incomplete and I’m undone
But I suppose like everyone
There’s so much more that’s going on
Behind the scenes

Sometimes I can’t see
Anything
Through the dark
Surrounding me
And at times I’m unsure
About the ground
Beneath my feet
If it’s safe and sound

When it’s hard to find hope in the unseen
I have peace in knowing it will find me

Things aren’t always what they seem
You’re only seeing part of me
There’s more than you could ever know
Behind the scenes
I’m incomplete and I’m undone
But I suppose like everyone
There’s so much more that’s going on
Behind the scenes

You may think I’m just fine
How could anything ever be out of line?

To Button, or Not To Button?

2010-12-13T11:07:00.001-07:00

So I have this cardigan that I LOVE, and normally wear buttoned, but last night decided to be bold and daring and wear it UN-buttoned. I know I know, I live on the edge. And then I thought, well what do I wear underneath it? If Im going to be bold and daring, I cant just wear plain old black, cause thats what I typically would wear. So I decided to wear yellow, and not just any old yellow, my favorite mustard, yellow cardigan. Thats right, Im wearing a cardigan underneath ANOTHER cardigan. Whoa Nelly. Im wicked edgy today. Thats right. I said wicked. Cant help it Im from Massachusetts.

French Influence

2010-12-07T11:46:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been completely infatuated with Audrey Tatou, a beautiful French actress who happens to have been in 2 movies I now absolutely adore.

I loved Coco's style, she was all about combining both fashion and comfort. She hated corsets and flashy accessories. She was simple, classy and strong willed. Good story.

A Very Long Engagement was more artsy and I LOVED how they did the film. It was witty, thrilling and charming all in one. Both were in French and contrary to most people I loved the subtitles, its more of an experience that just simply watching a movie. Two thumbs up on both!

Silent Strength

2010-11-06T21:35:00.001-06:00

Last Sunday I experienced one of the most powerful talks during Sacrament. It was given by a young man who I had heard about, but never spoken to. I quiet, humble man, husband, father. I havent been the same since hearing his talk, its been going through my mind all week. So finally I decided I needed to share it. He spoke on a personal trial of losing his 1 year old baby girl about 2 years ago. It was the first talk he has given in over 2 years, so it was a very emotional and powerful one. He spoke of courage, faith, charity, eternity, all based around losing his precious child. He spoke about how strong his wife was through the whole ordeal, never complaining once. There wasnt a dry eye in the house, you looked around the room and every female had red eyes and wet noses like me. It made me reflect on my life, and everything I complain about, which ends up being so trivial. Heres a family that has carried this trial with them for 2 years now and you would never know. You see them and think, "what a happy family." We all have trials in our lives, I know I have had my fair share of them. I just hope I can be more like this family, have that silent strength, with a testimony so strong that it will carry you through any storm.

Piece of History

2010-10-24T20:03:00.005-06:00

So I own my very own piece of history! Life has been so crazy I totally forgot about it. I found it at a flea market back in Missouri just before we moved out here to Idaho. It was in a big frame in a booth and almost walked right by it, but it caught my eye and as I looked at it closer I yelped in excitement at what I found! I couldnt believe it! A newspaper from 1813, thats 1813 people! Almost 200 years ago! Im not sure if its worth anything but its sure worth a lot to me. Being born and raised in Massachusetts I have a lot of New England pride. I love telling people Im from such a historical place. One of my favorite classes in college was American Heritage, learning about our fore fathers and the constitution, which took place in my old stomping ground. So naturally when I found this I HAD to have it. Plans are to frame it in special double sided glass so you can flip and see both sides of it, and to make sure its preserved from light. But who knows when that will be.

Up Late Thinking

2010-08-07T22:59:00.000-06:00

Being so busy during the day, my night time is for resting and thinking. Tonight's thoughts, consistency. There are many disappointments in life, many instances where I feel let down or forgotten. But there are always constants, the things that keep us going. For me, its the Savior and my husband. When everything else falls apart they are always there. They are who I turn to. For that I am so grateful.

Peek-a-Boo

2010-07-24T22:02:00.000-06:00

Thought I would stop in for a quick "hello" just to let you know Im still here:) Im still adjusting to my new job and hours (this not getting home till 7 at night is killing me.) So theres my NEW excuse for being non existent. The job itself is, well, horrible. There, I said it. I hate it. But why would that be a surprise? Its a call center job, I take calls from irate customers upset about their bill, and then Im expected to sell products to them. Right. I work for Qwest and the call center really is better than any other Ive worked in and the pay is awesome and so are the health benefits. But why shouldnt they be? Putting up with the crap I do every day, I deserve a raise! Bad attitude Jeannette, I know I should be grateful to even have a job so Im still working on it.
As for James he is getting close to being done with school! YAY! He only has 5 more semesters which normally would be 2 and a half more years, but he is applying to do the fast-track program which means going year round so he'll get done a whole year sooner. Which I of course am all about cause that just means I get to switch jobs sooner to be being a Mommy. Some other good news in James' department is he got a job working on campus at the Health Center, which couldnt be more perfect being his major is in Health Care Administration and he gets to work around his school schedule! So pretty much we wont be seeing each other much this next year and a half. (sigh)
Doc is doing wonderfully. James and I love him dearly and dont know what we would do without him.
I suppose thats it for now. Im finally coming out of a migraine so I better not stare at this computer too much longer or else it will come back. But hopefully I will come out of this slump and update this thing with pictures cause theres so much to share! Where does the time go...

Time for a Change

2010-03-06T15:26:00.000-07:00

When I first started this blog it was simply for updates on my life, more along the lines of a family journal. I still want to keep it that way, but with a little spice and individuality. Being as James isn't a contributor (he didn't even know I was doing this till about 5 months into it) and doesn't have any real part in it other than being mentioned here and there, I felt it just wasn't fair that he should have rights to the name of it. Selfish old me I guess:) But he is my husband, the love of my life. So I have simply changed the name of the blog to The Life and Creations of Jeannette, a place where I share both life and my creations. I have had so much fun sharing my life on here, and the things I have created. And along the way meeting new people and them enjoying what I do as well, what can be better than that?! So, the time has come for change. I will also be changing the blog address as well, so be aware of that as well.
Now, for an update:
James is back from Missouri! I spent 2 1/2 weeks separated from him while he traveled back home for his friends wedding. I told him this is the last time he leaves me all by myself for that long! Not gonna have it. He starts school back up in April, so I'm looking forward to that. In the meantime he spends his time snowboarding, working on cars, playing with Doccers, and being lazy. He'll never admit to it but we both know better:)
I started my new job on Feb. 22nd and so far so good. I have some interesting co workers and an awesome trainer. Some awesome perks: free popcorn & hot chocolate! How sweet is that? Benefits kick in on the 23rd, a blessed day. April will be the month of doctor visits, never would have thought I would look forward to them so much! Welcome to adulthood I guess.
We have settled into our new place quite nicely, we have TONS of space and love it. James has his massive garage and I still get to have a spacious closet, even if it still is in the other bedroom. And our bedroom is huge! I can walk around our bed without stubbing my toes or having to suck in my stomach. Theres even enough space on my side for a chair, a rocking chair to be exact. That was even James idea, how cute is that? The time is getting closer, I had a dream the other we had a baby girl and we named her Alice, and when I asked James if he liked the name he said its okay...ITS OKAY! That's a huge stepping stone for us, usually its, "No way" or gives me a weird face as if to say "Are you crazy?!" So "Its okay" totally works for me.

My next post will be so much fun, Im actually really looking forward to it. It goes along with my Wardrobe Challenge so I can at least say Ive been working on it. Gosh Im such a slacker! And just so you know Ive totally given up on the first week of it. I keep saying I will post about it, but lets just face the facts, it aint never gonna happen. The sweater I ended up not liking is in a garbage back amongst other abandoned articles of clothing awaiting their departure to the DI. Well, either DI or this awesome new store I just heard about in SLC where you can exchange your old clothes for something in the store or for store credit. I thought that was pretty sweet, so we'll see.

I'm off to get ready for the day and looking forward to dinner with a friend and an old missionary who taught me back in the day (Elder Ben Loveland to be exact, anyone remember him? He lives right next to my friend, how cool is that?!!) And yes it is 3:30 in the afternoon...I love lazy Saturday afternoons.

FINALLY!

2010-03-02T22:26:00.001-07:00

Thanks to my wonderful friend, Melese, my blog is fixed and back to normal! I was just making things more complicated than they actually were (all I was trying to do was change the font and color of the post title, theres a tutorial here on how to do it). But finally it is done, thank you my dear Melese!!!

P.S. I figured out the signature all on my own! Go me:)

Under Construction

2010-02-28T15:53:00.005-07:00

I am trying to do some updating and editing to the blog and it is not working like it should! UGH! So dont mind the hideousness that it is right now, hopefully I can get it figured out soon enough. Till then I will be pulling my hair out...

Wardrobe Challenge: Day ????

2010-02-18T22:19:00.004-07:00

Well so much for keeping track & up to date on this Wardrobe Challenge of mine! The move was a big hiccup in it, but I've had some time on my hands recently so its back to the grind, or something like it. I recently came upon a scarf I HAD have. I love the color and the antique feel to it. Well I've been cheating and not sticking to the items of clothing I've set aside to wear for the Challenge, (the move has not allowed me to do so) but finally got back with the program today. I brought my new scarf together with a Downeast shirt I haven't worn in forever. And I mean, FOREVER! Im not a pink person and this one is pretty close to it, its more of a peachy/coral tone, but dont be deceived by the picture, its NOT pink! But because of the closeness it keeps me from wearing it (back in college FOREVER ago when I bought it I loved it, but tastes and styles always change.) Well, without further ado, heres the outfit!The gray cardigan is probably my favorite piece of my whole wardrobe. It goes with everything, makes something so simple look great, and is uber comfortable. Overall, I loved the outcome. I felt like all the colors worked together and at the end of the day I finally felt good about my pinkish shirt. So, I'm keeping it...contingent upon me actually wearing it again in a reasonable amount of time of course.
I still haven't posted about my first week of the Challenge, hopefully coming soon.

Look at what I've been up to!

2010-02-11T16:37:00.005-07:00

I always have something in my way of updating this blog, this time around it being a move back to Idaho Falls. And man oh man, its finally done! I found a job, not an ideal one, but one that pays real good and has health insurance, good health insurance people! Its been 6 months since I had any, and even then I only had it for a month. I have a potential medical problem that could affect me in a big way and have desperately needed to go to the doctors but didnt have the money for it, and am sooo glad to finally be able to get it hopefully taken care of. But enough of this serious stuff, I have something fun to share! Back in Missouri I tried starting jewelery making but never had time to really get into it with all the house remodeling. But since Ive moved to laid back good ol' Idaho, I have had SO much fun with it! And I have some pictures to prove it. I took advantage of a beautiful day and the awesome snow left on the trees to showcase what Ive done, I think they turned out pretty cool. Well, enough chit chat, here they are:(this one's my favorite. not the earings, but the shot.)

I haven't decided which piece of jewelery is my favorite just yet, but I discovered a bead store that I have totally fallen in LOVE with, Pandora's Bubbles and Beads from which I found some stones I know are going to make my new favorite piece. I walked in today just to take a look, and walked out with some jade stones that are gorgeous, Im so excited to make a necklace and earings out of em! Whats so neat about the store is the owner travels all over the world and brings back the most beautiful beads and stones. Its going to be my new play ground that I know I will be spending way too much time at, but everyone needs an outlet and I have certainly found mine.
Well, that does it for now. As for an update on my Wardrobe Challenge, the move has put a halt on it temporarily, but I have been able to get rid of a sweater, not officially yet. I have a fun idea on just how to get rid of it. It will involve people who read this, whoever you are. Speaking of which, someone who did read my last post is none other than someone who's blog I am following, Elaine from Clothed Much!! I was so stoked!! She pretty much has the most awesome fashion sense and look forward to each and every outfit she puts together. You definitely should check her out, she's pretty much amazing.
So, I will be updating on the awesome Wardrobe Challenge, so keep a look out, if you want to:)
Now Im off to go make some real food for the first time since moving. Nothing like some homemade Pizza to fill our food craving tummy's!

Wardrobe Challenge- Day 1

2010-01-18T19:24:00.005-07:00

Ok, so I was going to blog about losing my job, but didnt. Too depressing, must blog about something fun and exciting. Like my new Wardrobe Challenge!! The husband and I were driving back from Utah, which is awesome thinking time for me, and during this thinking time thought about how my sister had asked me to go through her closet with her and get rid of some stuff. When she had asked me about a specific shirt, I suggested that by the end of this coming summer, if it hasnt been worn to get rid of it, and to set aside all those pieces of clothing that she wasnt sure about as well. Upon thinking further about that suggestion, I realized I should do the same...with a twist. (the sifted through closet of shirts) I just recently went through my closet and got rid of some, but am still struggling with some others that I havent worn in a while. So, were now onto the Challenge-- I went through the closet, pulled out all the shirts I havent worn in a while, hung them on a separate rod, and heres the kicker: I HAVE to wear all those articles of clothing until theyre all gone, NO EXCEPTIONS. If I struggle wearing it, then I get rid of it. If I hate it by the end of the day, I get rid of it.(these are the shirts at task) I am very much looking forward to this Challenge, as it will force me to be more creative with what I have and have fun while doing it. The only problem is, now that I dont have a job I have a harder time motivating myself to get "dressed up". But I have to, even if it is just for my husband and little Doccers whom I both love. :) So heres looking forward to something new to look forward to and starting fresh. I encourage any and all to do the same!

Finally!

2010-01-14T20:39:00.004-07:00

I have been looking everywhere for this wonderful pasta! Ok, maybe not everywhere, but all the wrong places like Walmart and WindCo. How silly of me to think these convenient stores would have what I'm looking for?! Its been decided though, from now on my grocery store of choice is...Albertsons. They have had so far 5 things I cant find anywhere else. In Rexburg at least, and we all know how limited our choices are here. But I digress...I found my pasta! If you haven't ever been to Noodles & Co. and had there Pesto Cavatappi, you have to! Well a recipe I found isn't this delicious one, but an equally yummy (Im guessing, haven't made it yet) dish that calls for the Cavatappi noodles. Im so excited to make it tomorrow, I will let you know how it turns out. Till then, lets all bask in the beauty of these noodles...yeah, I know, Ive got way too much time on my hands these days...oh yeah, I forgot...I haven't mentioned I got fired...eh, that's a post for tomorrow.

Its Your Life

2010-01-11T21:59:00.003-07:00

This is the moment
It’s on the line
Which way you gonna fall?
In the middle between
Wrong and right
But you know after all

It’s your life
What you gonna do?
The world is watching you
Every day the choices you make
Say what you are and who
Your heart beats for
It’s an open door
It’s your life

Are you who you always said you would be?
With a sinking feeling in your chest
Always waiting for someone else to fix you
Tell me when did you forget

It’s your life
What you gonna do?
The world is watching you
Every day the choices you make
Say what you are and who
Your heart beats for
It’s an open door
It’s your life

To live the way that you believe
This is your opportunity
To let your life be one that lights the way

It’s your life
What you gonna do?
The world is watching you
Every day the choices you make
Say what you are and who
Your heart beats for
It’s an open door
It’s your life

These are the words to song that plays first thing on here. Its by a singer that I have come to love and respect. I found her through a radio station my friend Nicole introduced me to, that has become the one and only station I listen to now. Its Air 1 radio, a positive alternative music station that plays christian pop/rock/alternative. Ive found now several different artists that Ive come to love. Basically, it comes down to finding music that not only sounds good that you can tap your foot to and sing along with, but feel good listening to knowing theres actually a good message behind it. This song in particular has a great message that I love singing to, especially in my car with windows down driving down an old country road. I need the warm sun back so I can do that again. Hope you enjoy her music as much as I do.
note: if you like her music, you'll also like Brooke Fraser who's also on my music playlist.

Content

2010-01-10T19:28:00.003-07:00

I love Sundays. I had to teach in Relief Society today and I loved the lesson. I love the new manual, Gospel Principles. Getting back to basics. I love my ward and all the wonderful people in it. I love having a day to relax and not have to think about anything but the Lord and and feel of the Spirit. I love my dog, he makes me so happy. I love my husband who can be so sweet. I love my friends and family. Im just full of so much LOVE right now, and I love it, which makes me completely content.

Perfection

2010-01-09T18:43:00.003-07:00

I found a recipe I LOVE. And not just me, James too! Its from my 30 minute meals by Pampered Chef. Its simple, easy & delicious. Well, I thought it was so good I had to share. So here ya go!

Toasted Angel Hair with Sausage & Peppers

1 lb bulk hot Italian sausage
2 medium red bell peppers
1 lb uncooked angel hair pasta
3 garlic cloves, pressed
5 1/4 cups chicken broth
1 cup fresh basil
1 oz Parmesan

1. Place sausage in skillet and cook; remove from skillet and set aside.
2. As sausage cooks, slice off tops and bottoms of bell peppers; remove seeds and cut into julienne strips.
3. Add pasta to skillet and toast 8-10 minutes, stirring after each 2-minute interval with tongs. Press garlic over pasta and add broth, all of the peppers and sausage. Bring to boil; cover, reduce heat and simmer vigorously 5-6 minutes or until pasta is tender.
4. As pasta simmers, chop basil reserving half for garnish. When pasta is tender, remove from heat and stir in remaining basil.
5. To serve, divide pasta mixture among serving bowls; grate cheese over pasta. Garnish with remaining basil.

note: I use chicken bouillon cubes, you get way more for your money. I also didnt have fresh basil so I just used dried basil. And when toasting the pasta, make sure to do it in the same pan you cooked the sausage, it imports the wonderful sausage flavor to the pasta. Oh yeah, for leftovers James added soy sauce to it, SO GOOD!

Just a little somethin...

2009-12-16T08:19:00.002-07:00

Hello again. Im really good at life getting away from me, and in turn I forget about the things that I do so enjoy, like blogging. I really have enjoyed sharing my life on here, its my new technological journal, I LOVE it! So while I have some time this morning Ill catch up just a little.
Since weve moved to Rexburg a lot has changed. My job unfortunately has been the big one, but not in a good way. Its gone down hill, theyve cut my hours and am now on the job hunt again. Ugh. Our apartment has been miserable as well, we hear every footstep and theyre blazing music at all hours. Ugh. But luckily weve found another place that even has a garage for all James toys and will be moving there as soon as they move out in a couple months. On the brighter side of things I got a calling as the second Sunday Relief Society teacher and love it. Ive only taught once so far which was this past Sunday and it went so well thanks to the Spirit. James is doing really well in school and is looking forward to the semester being over this week and finals being done. He is also on the job hunt and hopfully will find something soon. And Doc is as cute as ever, we love him more every day. Well, I think thats it for now. Im off to go get ready for work, yay.

"Im alive and well" -KC

2009-09-17T02:36:00.004-06:00

Well its been over a month since Ive been anywhere near a computer for personal use, let alone update this blog of mine or my favorite Facebook. Between moving, starting a new job and being very sick, its been pretty rough. I was weighed down by having to pack and move all our stuff by myself while James was away in Missouri helping his family (a trip planned and airplane tickets bought before I was laid off.) Was weighed down by starting a new job that requires more than 40 hours per week, working my butt off and trying to adjust to the busy nature of the job while only getting paid 1/2 of what I should be making doing what I do. And was weighed down with medical conditions both known and unknown, the known being a "raging" bladder/kidney infection that required an IV for 3 days that I had to keep in me which was so uncomfortable and at times painful. I was told by the doctor not to lift a thing, but how was I supposed to abide by that in the middle of moving? Yeah, impossible. And all the while I only had 1 week to get all my medical problems fixed since my insurance was ending from my previous job and would be without any thereafter since my new job doesnt offer any. So as you can see, Ive had a lot weighing me down and have been very overwhelmed. Its 3 am right now and have been up since 1:30, my mind racing and not being able to go back to sleep. I took Doc outside to go to the bathroom, came out to the living room and sat down to read some scriptures. I read D&C 6 and felt like I was being hugged by God Himself. What good, comforting scriptures to read during a time like this. I tried falling back asleep on the couch, but it was a no-go. Then I realized, it probably would help if I got everything I was feeling out on paper...uh, I mean, computer? I also wanted to apologize for distancing myself from everyone over the past month. I dont mean to, its just when I go through a lot like I have, I tend to turn into a hermit crab and deal with everything on my own. Not to mention Ive just been down right tired. I havent really had any time to reach out even if I wanted to. But thats still no excuse, shame on me for trying to get out of it.
Just know I love you all and have been thinking of everyone in my life that has been there me. Thank you.

Just for fun, heres a picture of my lovely IV

I got the job!

2009-08-10T12:22:00.002-06:00

Can you believe it? It was just last week, Wednesday the 5th, I lost my job. The day after I emailed in my resume to a job posted on Craigslist for a Book-keeper position. Not even an hour after emailing them, I get an email back requesting an interview. I interview that day, Thursday the 6th, and have a good feeling I have the job but not 100% sure. Today, Monday the 10th, they call offering me the job! Well, not exactly the job I interviewed for. It turns out they were also hiring for a Receptionist position but had just filled it a week before. Well I guess the girl they hired has been pretty shady so they offered me that position being they need that filled first. I was just a tad dissapointed as I was really looking forward to the bookkeeping position and Im starting out less than what Im making now, but who am I to complain? I have a job!! A huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders and feel like I can breathe again. I went to bed last night with a migraine and woke up this morning with it lingering and feeling sick to my stomach. I know its from stressing out over not having a job and not knowing whats gonna happen to us because of it. Well, now I know everything is going to be okay.

Jobless

2009-08-05T10:00:00.002-06:00

Thats right, I am now jobless, as of next Friday that is. Im home right now trying to gather myself and gain some composer so I can go back to work and pretend that Im glad to be there even though I was just laid off. LAID OFF! UGH! I officially hate this economy. As much as I feel horrible right now for myself and my family, I feel even worse for those that have been at my job for 20 years and being laid off. My boss told me about a couple others and it just down right sucks. So, here I go again with the job search. Prayers right now would be much appreciated.

Baby Making

2009-08-04T16:22:00.006-06:00

I think a lot lately, and so a lot of it is coming out on this wonderful blog of mine. Which Im really grateful for cause someday I will be able to look back at it and know I will be even more grateful then. Till then, lets vent.

My ponderings for the day is children, and the bearing of them. Not in the literal sense. More about the timing of children. It seems that no matter what decision we make these days about having children there is always a judgement. We either have too many, have them to close to one another, have them too soon, or in my case, have them too late. Ive been married 3 years and dont have any children. In the eyes of some LDS people James and I are sinners. And Im not just pulling that out of my behind, a teacher at school even said it. One of James class mates was furious one day coming into class and asked her what was wrong. Well in her previous religious class her teacher bashed on married couples who were waiting to have children for any reason. Said they were sinners. She herself had been married for 2 years and wasnt planning on having children for another 3-4. I was just as outraged as her when he told me about that! I understand we are commanded to multiply and replenish the earth, but did God give us a specific time frame on when to? Im pretty there isnt any scripture that says "You must conceive your first child after being married for no longer than 6 months." Its sad that there are people out there who dont consider that there are some personal and serious reasons why people wait to have children. But first and formost, it is in no ones place to make a judement about something that personal to begin with. Whether we have 2, 4 or 8 kids, it is no ones job to decide that except you, your spouse and Heavenly Father. It seems people these days have forgotten that ones own personal revelation trumps whatever any one else's judgements are.

Heres to imperfect people in a perfect church. I know Im one of them, so I will try to be more patient with matters like this. Its gonna be a long road...

Wow...Really?!!

2009-07-31T08:46:00.004-06:00

So I am really perplexed right now...I dont understand people sometimes!! Let me explain: I just read a blog where the parents decided to have some fun with their newborn who is only 3 weeks old. 3 weeks old! So the Mom wrapped her little one up in a Moby wrap then put on a oversized life jacket and took her on a wave runner--a wave runner!! 3 weeks old!! I dont know, maybe Im freaking out over nothing, or am I? I just dont see how anyone in their right mind would do something like that...so Im curious as to what your thoughts are...enlighten me please!

True Humility

2009-07-28T09:31:00.004-06:00

Here is a very interesting story I just read and felt compelled to share. Makes me think about what truly is important in this life, even though he had contrary religious beliefs than I have. I keep hearing stories about people spending more money than they actually have, just to have that big house, nice car or fun, expensive items. I dont get it. James was really nice to me this past Christmas and bought me a newer car because he knew I loved it. But after a change of plans and moving out here to Idaho for James to be in school, I dont feel right driving it. So we are selling it and I will be driving something older but still dependable. We can afford it to keep the car, thats not a problem. But something about James being in college and me driving a new car just doesnt sit right with me. Dont get me wrong, as soon as James gets out of college Im not gonna hurry and buy myself a new car, thats not what Im saying. Its all a matter of living withing your means. I think what has got me to this point is seeing everyone going into debt or at least on the path just to have their nice, fancy things to show off to the world. Its sad to see really. So heres to this guy, who had the wealth but chose to live a humble a life.

July 27, 2009
Every day on NPR, listeners hear funding credits — or, in other words, very short, simple commercials.

A few weeks ago, a new one made it to air: "Support for NPR comes from the estate of Richard Leroy Walters, whose life was enriched by NPR, and whose bequest seeks to encourage others to discover public radio."

NPR's Robert Siegel wondered who Walters was. So Siegel Googled him.
An article in the online newsletter of a Catholic mission in Phoenix revealed that Walters died two years ago at the age of 76. He left an estate worth about $4 million. Along with the money he left for NPR, Walters also left money for the mission.

But something distinguished Walters from any number of solvent, well-to-do Americans with seven-figure estates: He was homeless.

Walters was a retired engineer from AlliedSignal Corp.; an honors graduate of Purdue with a master's degree; and a Marine. Walters never married, didn't have children and was estranged from his brother. But he wasn't friendless.

Rita Belle, a registered nurse, met Walters at a senior center 13 years ago.
"He always came in with a little backpack on and a cap on," Belle tells Siegel. "And always kind of looked at me, but [was] very reserved. And I'm very outgoing and outspoken. So I said to him, 'Hey, you got a minute can we sit down to visit?' And we'd have coffee there at the senior center."

Belle and Walters became friends. Belle stayed with Walters when he was ill. She became his nurse and ultimately the executor of his estate — as well as one of the beneficiaries — despite fundamental differences between them.

"He was an atheist and I'm a very profound practicing Catholic, and I'd never met an atheist," Belle says. "And that just blew my mind that somebody could not believe in the Lord."
Belle volunteers at the mission in Phoenix, which like NPR and several other nonprofits got about $400,000 from Walters.

Belle knew him as a very well-informed man who could fix her air conditioning — someone she just assumed had a place to live. Then he told her that he had no home. She heard that he slept on the grounds of the senior center. He told her he ate at the hospital and used a telephone there or at the center.

"And I'm sure that's when he was making his trades and so on," Belle says. "He was involved in investing; we talked investments a lot." Belle says Walters even did his own income taxes.
When Walters retired, he evidently retired from the world of material comforts. He didn't have a car.

"He just gave up all of the material things that we think we have to have," Belle says. "You know, I don't know how we gauge happiness. What's happy for you might not be happy for me. I never heard him complain."

Evidently, among his few possessions was a radio. Hence those announcements listeners hear now and again on NPR stations.

Heres to 3 Years

2009-07-27T10:23:00.002-06:00

Married July 27th, 2006

Happy Anniversary to us!

Lesson #27: Peace in Troubled Times

2009-07-21T08:56:00.000-06:00

James and I had the opportunity to teach Sunday school for the 12-13 year olds this past Sunday for our friends that normally teach the class. It was a great experience and am grateful for the lesson. It was about George Albert Smith and his amazing faith in the gospel and his Heavenly Father. The stories shared in the lesson about his example of faith are truly remarkable. Heres one that touched me deeply:

One evening George Albert Smith stayed in the home of some members along with several other elders and the mission president, J. Golden Kimball. That night, as they slept, a mob gathered. President Smith relates:

"About midnight we were awakened with a terrible shouting and yelling from the outside. President Kimball [J. Golden] jumped up and started to dress. … The men pounded on the door and used filthy language, ordering the Mormons to come out that they were going to shoot them. President Kimball asked me if I wasn’t going to get up and dress and I told him no, I was going to stay in bed, that I was sure the Lord would take care of us. In just a few seconds the room was filled with shots. Apparently the mob had divided itself into four groups and were shooting into the corners of the house. Splinters were flying over our heads in every direction. There were a few moments of quiet, then another volley of shots was fired and more splinters flew. I felt absolutely no terror. I was very calm as I lay there, experiencing one of the most horrible events of my life, but I was sure that as long as I was preaching the word of God and following his teachings that the Lord would protect me, and he did” (George Albert Smith, “How My Life Was Preserved,” in A Story to Tell, comp. Primary Association General Board and the Deseret Sunday School Union Board [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1945], pp. 155–56)."

I freak out when theres a bee near by! I cant even imagine how I would react to people shooting at me. But he had absolute PEACE in his heart, knowing that the Lord would protect him. What an example he is to us that if we just put our faith in God, only good can come about.

We then played a game of "Concentration", or "Memory" as some of you might know it by. It was centered around Ephesians 6: 10-18, scripture of armor as I call it. If we just 'put on the whole armor of God' we will be protected in all things and have a stronger testimony.

This world increasingly challenges our faith in God and our standards of righteousness. If we would be “able to stand,” as Paul says, we must prepare now by “wearing” the “armor of righteousness.” With it we can move forward knowing that all will be well. Our righteousness will bring us peace even in the midst of troubled times. Let us help each other to stand “on the Lord’s side.”

Just Awesome

2009-07-16T15:29:00.000-06:00

It was so exciting to see a past contestant choreograph this AMAZING dance, which was danced so BEAUTIFULLY by these two SUPERB dancers. This seriously made my Wednesday night.

What Lifts My Spirits

2009-07-10T10:53:00.001-06:00

I turn to these inspirational works of art and it reminds me how beautiful this world is even with all the misery. Im grateful God gave us music and dance to lift my spirits in time of need.

Thought for the day...

2009-07-09T19:58:00.000-06:00

I am a very self reflective person. In doing so, I tend to be quite hard on myself. I sometimes let what people say, do or act determine my self worth. I let a lot get to me, ultimately bringing me down. I think too much. Im emotional. Sensitive. I am a woman. Most of all, I am a child of God. Through all my weaknesses and faults, He still loves me. He is the only person who knows who I REALLY am, even when I dont. He helps me realize that I can make those weaknesses my strengths, and in doing so become a better person. At the end of the day, I forget all the negative, all the hurt and pain, and remember I choose my own happiness. And no one can take that away from me. I may forget at times, but deep down I am a child of God, and He LOVES me.

I wanted to share this not only for myself to look back on, but for my children one day to read and to know who there mother is. I want my children to know that their mother has a testimony of this amazing Gospel, and the peace and happiness it can bring to our lives. It is only through our Savior that we can recieve that eternal happiness. Its not an easy journey, but it is one that is worth while. I am eternally grateful for my testimony, and hope to be able to share it with as many as possible. If there is any gift I could ever give, the greatest of all would be the gospel. That is what I most of all want my children to know.

Angels Among Us

2009-06-23T13:41:00.000-06:00

I have been having a hard time at work lately. There have been complaints from certain individuals, (whom I have no idea who) who have been complaining that I do not answer the phones quickly enough and that I am not doing my job adaquetly. Not to mention many fingers being pointed at me lately outside of work. Well I know that I am doing my best, the best that I can when there are up to 4 calls coming in at a time to answer as many as I can. And doing my best at going above and beyond of what is asked of me. Its sad that there are some people in this world that just have to complain about something to fulfill there day, and end up taking it out on someone that doesnt deserve it. Well, there is a sweet young gentlemen with Down Syndrome that works here that helps out with cleaning around the building, and well lets just say he made my day. There were multiple calls coming in at once, and I was making sure they got where they needed to go, and upon finally getting off the phone, he walks by and simply says, "Your doing a good job" with a smile on his face. He has been my little angel for the day.

Ok, I lied...

2009-06-22T16:38:00.001-06:00

...so I said I was going to take a break. I get in these moods where I feel compelled to distance myself from the world. I feel its better for me to just maintain my distance in hopes not to implode on everyone around me. But as it turns out, I just cant stay away, theres just too much to write about! Plus, Im over my moodiness. Im done being female, as James would put it.

Ok, so what is it that I have to write about so badly to go against my word of staying away? Her name is Ree Drumond. Ive written about her several times, as far as her recipes go. But what I havent shared is that she is a remarkable writer who radiates joy and happiness. She shares her everyday life in her blog/website which you can find located in the top right hand corner of my blog, titled The Pioneer Woman. Even reading her recipes you cant help but laugh at the way she shares them, theres a story in everything she writes about!

Well the one thing that I have enjoyed the most reading on her website is her story about how her and Marlboro Man (her nickname for her husband) met, fell in love and eventually marry. It has been quite the journey, reading it has really been such a joy. I have been so looking forward to knowing exactly how it ends, cause we all know they obviously got hitched, its the journey on how they got there thats so interesting. Well I finally read the final contribution to her "Black Heels to Tractor Wheels" today, and I cant help but feel touched, truly affected but what she wrote. I cant really explain why or how, but it moved me. We all have stuggles in our life, and for me, they just keep on piling up and I have a hard time of sorting through them and figuring out the best way of managing them to not "stink" up my life. And then you come upon certain readings that help lighten the load, put some perspective on your life, and make you realize that your not alone. Make you remember what brought you to where you are and that it is a good thing. I just love those moments. So thank you Ree Drumond, the Pioneer Woman. From the bottom of my heart. I encourage you to go read it here.

Excuse Me

2009-06-20T20:37:00.000-06:00

I need another break. Excuse me for a bit. Sorry.

I need a minute...

2009-06-18T13:42:00.000-06:00

My poor little pup is sick with puppy diarrhea. I woke up at 3 to let him out, and then woke me up again at 5, but ignored the poor little thing to fulfill my selfish desire to sleep. Well upon waking up at my regular scheduled time, I realize why he needed up again: the reason was on my living room floor. I immediately felt horrible for ignoring him earlier that morning, poor thing was just sick! Well, I, emphasis on the I, clean up the mess before I have to head to work. Then I come home for lunch and as soon as I walk in I smell what I thought was the remains of what I cleaned up that morning, to find out upon letting Doc out of his crate that he had made a mess in it and was completely covered in his new remains. UGH. But before I could feel grossed out I immediately felt sorry for him, poor thing had to go and couldn't wait! It wasnt until giving him a bath and washing it off that the grossness settled in. But still felt bad. So I bathe and dry him, take care of the mess and when James gets home do I get a "thanks for taking care of that"? No. Instead I get a "your going to be late getting back to work" instead. Thanks. Thats just what I needed to hear. I don't now if this is what I get to look forward to when having kids or if this is something I have a right to be upset about, but either way, Im gonna need a minute...

Who'll Stop the Rain...

2009-06-18T11:09:00.000-06:00

"Long as I remember the rain been comin down.

Clouds of mystry pourin confusion on the ground.

Good men through the ages, tryin to find the sun;

And I wonder, still I wonder, who'll stop the rain."

-CCR

Oh the truth to those words...when is it going to end?!! It has been raining here for 2 1/2 weeks straight! I don't understand, I thought we moved to the desert? So much for that, it's turning into the wettest of marshlands here. But, there is a light at the end of the tunnel: weather.com says we are in the clear starting Monday! 70 degree weather with clear skies and 0% chance of rain!! I can hardly wait!! I can see it now: sandals, shorts, riding my new bike, walks again with Doc, rides on the motorcycle. Ahhh...I can hardly wait. So heres to the sun! We love you sun, please come back out play soon, we really do miss you:)

Finally, some recipes...and more!

2009-06-13T15:25:00.000-06:00

Once again, I have no good excuse for disappearing other than I'm lazy and forgetful. I get home from work and all I wanna do is cook, eat, clean and relax. Enough of my excuses, lets get on with some of the recipes I promised!

Island Pitas (a.k.a. Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Pineapple Pitas...better, huh?)
2 boneless chicken breasts
Lawrys Teriyaki marinade
1/4 C. Mayo
Pineapple slices
Lettuce
Pitas

1. Marinade chicken for desired length of time. Mix mayo with 1 tsp. marinade, or to desired taste. Grill chicken and pineapple slices while basting pineapple with marinade. Cut chicken into strips, then slather on some of the mayo mixture on pitas then stuff with chicken, pineapple and lettuce. Enjoy!!

Next, Pioneer Woman, Ree Drumond's: Mexican Lasagna

Just follow the link and I promise you will love what you find! James and I both loved it, though I will warn you it makes a ton! Those of you with big families will appreciate it, while those of you with smaller families, I would definitely cut it in half. We were eating leftovers for quite some time. It was really okay though, I savored every bite of it:)
(My pictures aren't as pretty as hers, but I enjoy myself capturing photos of my creations!)

As for James and I, we are loving Idaho, James is doing good in school and I am enjoying my job.
James on his first day of school:)
We love our ward and I am loving being back in Relief Society. Having been in Young Women's for the past two years, I have grown to miss the Relief Society, so I am enjoying it while it lasts before we get callings. We especially are enjoying having friends. James has become good friends with my friend Nicole's husband Chad. He is a car guy like James, so they have bonded quite well while I have very much enjoyed Nicoles company! Speaking of cars, James has found himself a new project. He is bringing back to life a 91 Acura Integra. I was more willing to go along with it since he bought the car for a mere $300. He is having fun stripping it apart and making it almost new again. I will have to post pictures as it comes along.

And as for Doc, well he is still my baby and we enjoy him every day! He is so much fun and love to play with him every minute we can. He actually is a year old this month! We dont know the exact day in June he was born, so I am making June 30th is Birthday, that way he is a "full" year old. Im a little OCD like that:)
Well, I think that is it for now. TTFN.Oh yeah, I cut my hair:)

Doc and I take walks along the green belt in Idaho Falls. Its so pretty, we both love it.

How cute is this?! He loves the wind blosing in his face, had to capture it:)

Addendum to "It comes down to dignity"...

2009-05-13T15:30:00.000-06:00

I hereby take back the crown I formerly gave to Miss California Carrie Prejean. Anybody who poses nude as a teenager and lies about it on a contract to enter the Miss USA pageant clearly has little to no dignity. So much for that one!

Coming soon...an update to my Mexican Lasagna and a new recipe: Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Pitas! Try and say that ten times fast:) Yeah, I should work on a new name...

Mexican-Italian tonight!

2009-04-30T14:15:00.000-06:00

I haven't cooked at ALL this week and figured I better get my act together and put my wife cap back on. So, tonight I am making one of Pioneer Woman's finest, or so it looks at least. Mexican Lasagna. I can't WAIT! I'm sure James cant either. Poor guy. If it wasn't for the fact he burns noodles, I'm sure he would help out in the kitchen. But for fear of burning the house to the ground, we both agree the kitchen is my domain. He does help with dishes so for that I am INCREDIBLY grateful. He deserves a pat on the back! So, here's looking forward to some good cookin' tonight!! Or so we hope.

Pandemics and Preparedness

2009-04-27T09:50:00.000-06:00

As many of you have probably heard, there is a possible pandemic on our hands with this swine flu among us. It has me on my toes since there are three people here at my work that just returned from Mexico, where the outbreak is most prevelant...EEEK! Needless to say, Ive got my Clorox dissenfecting wipes at my side alongside some hand sanitizer. I might even go get me a surgical mask, but we'll see. Im not taking any chances here people!

What this whole situation really comes down to is being prepared. Before we left from Missouri, James' Dad was telling us how the church has hired a special pandemic person for situations like these. You know when the church is taking action in hiring someone for a pandemic, it's not going to be that far away. He told us to start preparing now with a 3 month food storage supply, in case of one. Of course this would be on top of what we already had in food storage, which Im not going to lie was next to nothing. But we do have a Sam's Club membership and since we moved I have been picking up extra things here and there when I go, so I can proudly say I am starting and have enough for maybe 2 months. James' Mom also gave us a whole bunch of cannery from the Bishops storehouse so that indeed helps.

But the thing is, after reading about how our country is very vulnerable when it comes to our dependence on other countries for most things, it has made me realize just how important it is to be prepared. If you read THIS article, it talks about how places like Wal-Mart keep there inventories low to prevent waste, so if we were to cut off air travel there goes our stock for necessities for things such as generic medicines to surgical gloves. When it comes to our new President and our failing government, they will leave you to believe there will always be someone to be there to bail you out in time of need. We all know though this isnt true. We NEED to be prepared for whatever comes our way.
So, even though I have been preached to for years now to begin my food storage, and have a little here and there, I hereby declare April 27th the day I dedicate myself to FULLY preparing my food storage and simply just being PREPARED.

Off to Sam's Club I go.

It comes down to--Dignity

2009-04-21T09:01:00.000-06:00

If you haven't heard all the hoopla about the Miss USA pageant, then you are missing out on the most outrageous contraversy ever. Really, Im boiling under my skin right now just thinking about it!

Her crown winning came down to one question, the most political and moral question that could ever be asked: Do you believe in same sex marriage. Not in those exact words, here is is verbatim: "Vermont recently became the fourth state to legalize same sex marriage. Do you think every state should follow suit? Why or why not?" Her answer: "Well I think it's great that Americans are able to choose one or the other. Um, we live in a land that you can choose same sex marriage or opposite marriage and, you know what, in my country and in, in my family, I think that I believe that a marriage should be between a man and a woman, no offense to anybody out there. But that's how I was raised and that's how I think that it should be between a man and a woman." She took a high moral ground, and for that I couldn't be more proud of a beauty contestent, knowing it wouldn't be the most popular answer. The sad thing about all of this, was the reaction. She lost the crown because of her morals, and now everyone is saying she should have given a more "pleasing" answer in order to win. Really? I thought the whole Q&A part of the competition was saying what you believe in, not what everyone else believes in. I thought the entire competition was about being who you are, not trying to be someone else. But through it all, Miss California Carrie Prejean stood by her answer and states, "I wouldn't change a thing." I watched an interview with her and Matt Lauer on the Today Show, and was very impressed by how well she is handling the whole situation. She was the first runner up, and knows that if she had given a different answer she very well could have won, but still stands by her response and her beliefs. GOOD FOR HER!

In my book, she deserves the most sparkly-studded crown ever.

Though she could have worn just a little bit more of a modest dress:)

Look who it is!!

2009-04-13T13:44:00.000-06:00

Well I have found out that there are actually people who enjoy reading this thing, so I thought I better not let them down and get with the program!

So, James and I are in Idaho, wahoo! We absolutely love it here, so much in fact James is pretty set on staying here the rest of our lives! Im totally down. When you break it down, why not? We've got the mountains for boarding, dunes for four-wheeling, friends and family, and a race-track for James' speed demon needs! What more could you ask for?! I could use some more trees and water, but what are you gonna do about that? I guess we'll just have to visit out east more:)

As a stated in my last post I was going to share some pictures from our vaca in Utah in February, so here we go!

Here we have James newly bought truck stuck in a snow mound. Just the way I wanted to start our vacation:) Dont worry though, we got it out.

Next we have James trying on some ski gear which he later returned. That's right, I brought him over to the dark side, he's a boarder now!

James the first day with his skiis

Me loving the mountain

We loved Snow Bird, deffinitely going back next winter!

Me tearing up the mountain...

Thats James catching some air when he was first on his skiis, tricky stuff!

Us Three Musketeers at California Pizza Kitchen...good times, good food!

I love this picture of James playing the piano with the kids, melts my heart:)

Another melt my heart one:)

Gotta love these kids!!!

Oh you gotta love our classic pictures:) Super Bowl get together at Tinas place, so much fun!

All in all, two thumbs up for goofy helmets and for awesome vacations!

So there you go, good times in Utah. Im bummed I didnt get any pictures with Ben & Joy though. In due time.

Well, I suppose that does it for that. Hope you enjoyed! I know I did:)

Coming soon: Pictures of Doc in all his glory!! (Thats my dog if you dont remember:)

Hello World!

2009-02-25T21:15:00.000-07:00

Between packing up our house, going on vacation for a week and half, working on the in-laws house, and moving accross the mid-west, its needless to say we've been a little busy and thus absent from the world for a while! But no worries, we are here and well. The move was great, we couldnt have asked for better weather for the drive, and I somehow got by without needing any of the energy drinks we bought for the 21 hour drive! Were now moved in and loving our townhouse. Were 2 minutes away from Walmart and Im 5 minutes away from my new job. I start my job tomorrow as a receptionist for an international company that makes food processing equipment. James is still on the hunt for a job and is still waiting on his school application status, so heres hoping!
I think that will have to be it for now, Im pretty tired and dont know how much longer I will make it this evening without passing out on my lap-top!
I will make sure to update more on our wonderful vaca in Utah and post some much needed pictures. Love to all!

The Truth

2009-01-21T12:20:00.000-07:00

Ok ok, Ive been guilt tripped by my husband into telling you all the truth. He scolded me this morning for my previous post about the studio, because it is a lie. Yes, thats right, I LIED! Why you ask? I guess because Im both embarrased and stressed about the whole situation. I wasnt ready to get bombarded with all the questions..."Why?" "What are you going to do now?" "What happened?" Im stressed out enough as it is, this is just one more thing to add to the list. Not to mention my earlier post about how things were going "so well" for us, how could I say such a thing! God is surely punishing me for thinking He was blessing us, He was merely just testing us!! Ok, Im sure your ready to know exactly what the heck I am talking about...we are not buying the studio anymore. Everything has gone to put. As it turns out, we got ahead of ourselves, as the phrase says, "put the cart before the horse." The numbers shown us from the business, the profit/loss statement, was different from what they had first shown us. Pretty much they fudged the numbers to make it look like they made more than they really did. And then on top of that, going to get the SBA loan, since the loan would be under $100,000 it would have to be on a 5 year term which would make our monthly payments $1600. Between that payment and not making as much as we thought, we would barely be making it by, making us have to live in the studio for 5 years if not more. Which would not allow us to have kids in that frame of time. So you see where we stand, its just not possible.

As far as what we do now, were working on some prospects. We will let you know as soon as something comes about. I apologize for my deceiving post yesterday, at the time it just seemed best till we got things figured out. Im grateful though for a husband who reminds me its more important to be honest. Thank you love:)

Studio

2009-01-19T13:15:00.000-07:00

As far as anyone is concerned, James and I are still planning on going ahead with the studio. If you have any questions, please contact me personally either by phone or email.

Does the Journey Seem Long?

2009-01-19T07:34:00.000-07:00

In church yesterday for our opening hymn we sang hymn no. 127, "Does the Journey Seem Long?" I had never heard of it before, neither James and I had and I dont think the majority of the congregation had either considering no one was really singing it at first. But once we got use to the melody and stopped paying so much attention to not messing up the song, I realized what a beautiful song it is. The words just really captivated me. I love it when hymns do that for me. So, HERE it is if you havent heard it.

Does the journey seem long,

The path rugged and steep?

Are there briars and thorns on the way?

Do sharp stones cut your feet

As you struggle to rise

To the heights thru the heat of the day?
Is your heart faint and sad,

Your soul weary within,

As you toil ‘neath your burden of care?

Does the load heavy seem

You are forced now to lift?

Is there no one your burden to share?
Let your heart be not faint

Now the journey’s begun;

There is One who still beckons to you.

So look upward in joy

And take hold of his hand;

He will lead you to heights that are new—
A land holy and pure,

Where all trouble doth end,

And your life shall be free from all sin,

Where no tears shall be shed,

For no sorrows remain.

Take his hand and with him enter in

Q & A

2009-01-15T07:05:00.000-07:00

Lets clear up some unanswered questions with some answers. Im horrible about following up with questions you all ask, sorry!

Now how did I miss not sharing what my puppys name is! How silly of me...His name is Doc "Rivers" Cooper...yup, thats right Tina! It just fit so well when you were out here when you added in Rivers, I decided it needs to be his official middle name:) He is half maltese, half yorkie. An official Yorktese!

Tomorrow is my birthday. Im at the point in my life that it has just become another day. So dont fret about wishing a "happy birthday", I promise I wont be dissapointed if I dont hear one:) Ive mentioned before that I work with a Jehovahs Witness. We tend to butt heads a lot regarding our religious differences, but there have been a couple things that have actually affected me in a good way. If you didnt know, they dont celebrate any holidays or birthdays. Now where I wouldnt rule out completely celebrating these eventful occasions, Ive come to the realization on "how" to celebrate these occasions. We focus so much on the insignificant nature of these commercialized holidays/celebrations, we forget the true meaning of the reason we are celebrating. Birthdays for instace, they are fun to celebrate when you are young, you have a reason to be excited when you turn 5, 10, 16 and 20. But when you get older, your birthday should maybe be less about you, and more about the person who brought you into this world, and maybe your Creator. Of course we should celebrate our accomplishments weve made through our life, each year weve been through, but you can do that everyday and why spend all that money just because your one year older? Christmas is pretty obvious of how we could celebrate that a little better. And Valentines day? Shouldnt we show our love for eachother every day? Shes just made me realize how superficial we all can be. And as much as I dont agree with her beliefs, she at least lives true to what she believes and doesnt waiver. How many of us can honestly say that for ourselves? I know there are days that I cant.

Ok, I think this is the last question needed to be answered. That little boy in the video above is just someone Tina and I found on youtube.com. She was showing me some other funny videos and stumbled upon this one and let me tell you, we were laughing so hard Im suprised our eyeballs didnt pop out of our heads!! Oh my golly gee he is adorably funny.

Well that should cover all my basis. If not let me know.

Love!!

Christmas 2008 & Update

2009-01-07T13:22:00.000-07:00

January 12,2009

2008 was an interesting year for us! All in all though, we have been blessed and couldnt ask for more. The greatest gift we recieved this Christmas was the gift of a strengthened testimony, nothing greater. Its amazing the blessings the Lord has in store for you when you make the choices in your life that bring you closer to Him. We are so very greatful for the Gospel and to be a part of this magnificent work!

Well, I guess I should share some specifics as to what has been going on with us. Christmas was fun, we got to spend it with Tina and made some fun memories off roading in James beast of a truck!

We found a cave during our off road adventures, how cool is that!

The next greatest gift I got this year for Christmas was my own little puppy!! He is just the cutest little thing I ever saw. James couldnt wait till Christmas to give him to me, so the Sunday before Christmas he surprised me, and boy was I surprised! I couldnt be happier, he is my little baby:)

See what I mean about baby? We like to snuggle:)

Hes been groomed since Christmas so his hair is shorter and just that much cuter!! Were working on being house trained, so far so good. Hes at the point he knows to go the door when he needs to go, its just the whole waiting part. But were getting there.

So we have a lot going on right now! We finally got our house leased, which is the next best thing to having it sold, so we will take what we can get. The people that are leasing it would buy it but they would like to have some debt payed off before they get themselves into another mortgage. They sold their house and have to be out by the 31st, so we are busting out behinds trying to get everything together to move and buy the photography business! We are working on the SBA loan right now, so far so good. It actually worked out great as far as finding the bank to do it. Were going with Regions bank, which there is one in the town that James is working construction right now, so that is helping a lot to work with them here and be able to work with them locally when we move. It just seems that everything is working out so well for us, its amazing really! We got our settlement yesterday from James car accident, so we are so grateful to be able to have that help out with the business and to have something to fall back on. I will tell you exactly why everything has been working out so nicely for us...the big Guy!! Like I said before, when you are making the choices in your life that bring you closer to Him, He will bless you ten fold, and that is what happened for us.

On the 30th, we are flying out to Utah to visit Ben and family and Tina, and to go snowboarding...I am so stoked! Not only have I not seen these people I love in forever, I havent been on my board and mountain that I love either in forever! I miss it! James is going to try and pick up snow boarding, but if he doesnt in the first couple days, he will go back to his skiis. When he lived in New York growing up he went skiing all the time having lived next to a ski resort. Either way, we will have fun. It is a much needed vacation, we have been through so much our first 2 1/2 years of marriage, we need some time to just be "us." Especially before we start this whole business thing.

Well, I guess thats it for now! I know Im forgetting a whole bunch of stuff, but I suppose this will do for now. I will be updating on the move, business and what-not for sure. Till then, LOVE YOU!!!

Im here!

2009-01-06T08:21:00.001-07:00

Dont worry, Im still here...just slackin is all. I get caught up in life and before you know it, I forget all about this wonderful world of blogging! I wont being saying too much right now, just putting it out there that I still exist and all is well. I will however being updating SOON. There is a LOT to update on, so I need to make sure I have the time to do so. Just know I love, Love, LOVE you all!!!!

Who do you run to?

2008-12-19T10:56:00.000-07:00

This is one of my new found favorite songs. Its by Lady Antebellum, an awesome new country group. They are amazing. Well lately Ive been listening to this song a lot, and found just how significant these words are. I thought to myself, "Who do I run to?" At the end of the day, I am so grateful I have a husband, family and God who loves and cares for me. They are who I run to.

I run from hate

I run from prejudice

I run from pessimists

But I run too late

I run my life

Or is it running me

Run from my past

I run too fast

Or too slow it seems

When lies become the truth

That’s when I run to you

Chorus

This world keeps spinning faster

Into a new disaster so I run to you

I run to you baby

And when it all starts coming undone

Baby you’re the only one

I run to I run to you

We run on fumes

Your life and mine

Like the sands of time

Slippin’ right on through

And our love’s the only truth

That’s why I run to you

Note: you can listen to it on the top right. Its a beautiful song, I promise you wont be dissapointed.

Morning Sickness

2008-12-15T12:10:00.000-07:00

Haha...got ya!! Now if you just take away the morning part, the sickness is true in and of itself...it is going around and it is miserable!! Ive had the nasty common cold for over a week now, courtesy of my dear husband:) Beginning as a head cold, its now traveled down to my chest and am now coughing up the grossest of gross umentionables. Its bringing back to when I quit smoking, there were mornings I coughed up stuff that should never be in any human person!! Hence why we dont smoke. Thanks Mom and Dad for scaring that into me, Ill never forget that confrontation:) I know I need to be drinking more water, I really have no excuse for not drinking more, we have a kitchen at work with a culligan water filter. Im getting on that as soon as Im done here, I PROMISE! Ill tell you what though, who ever invented Nyquil needs a Nobel Prize or something of that magnitude, that stuff works wonders!! I took it Saturday evening, with a warning from James that shortly after I do I will for sure be knocked out. I disregarded his warning and took it at about 8:30. At about 8:45, sure enough I was konked out on the living room couch, not to be heard from for a looong time. I slept so goooood that night, better than I have in a while. Needless to say I will be taking it again tonight, theres nothing like being able to get a full nights rest when your sniffling, sneezing, coughing, aching.
Hope all your noses, heads and chests are unstuffed, free and clear of that nasty unmentionables!!

2008-12-09T07:34:00.000-07:00

I am not perfect, I am so far from. I have many faults and many weaknessess. I do not pretend to be perfect. My sincerest apologies to those that wish I were. I strive EVERY DAY to be better. There are things behind closed doors we dont see. I have a lot of closed doors. Should I be punished for that? Should I be scorned and ridiculed for the things unknown in my life? I guess I should. So be it.

Drum Roll Please...

2008-11-29T09:25:00.001-07:00

Some of you have been inquiring as to what it is that James and I are actually going to be doing in the next year, whether it be college or some other venture. Well, as it turns out, we have been offered to buy his aunt and uncles photography business down in southern El Dorado, Arkansas. And we have agreed to buy it! Of course after much thought and prayer, it wasnt a spur of the moment decision. James has been very nervous about spending all that money on college to not have a job when he got done, being as how the economy is the way it is and construction has gone way down. We went down to visit it a couple weeks ago and to talk numbers with his aunt and uncle. The studio is on a beautiful piece of property, it has a ton of potential. The studio itself needs a little bit of repair, but nothing too major. But it sure is plenty big, I can do sooo much with it! The beauty of this whole business propostion is that by buying the busniess, were pretty much just buying a paycheck. It does very well for itself, and they only work Tuesday through Thursday, with Friday and Saturday by appointment only. We would be able to start a family sooner and I would be able to work and have kids. James plans on being trained so that he will eventually be the main photographer so I can just to the editing and be able to take care of the kids. But of course, still do pictures if I wanted to, which I of course would, its my love and passion! And he has always wanted to learn, whenever I take him on shoots with me he always has an eye and helps a lot. I think he will do great. And if all else fails in four years time, we arent happy where we are, we'll either sell the business or close up shop, being they had it paid off in a year. So, we are feeling really good about it. Now its just a matter of getting financed to buy it, we bought a program on finding government grants, with a money back garauntee after 6 months, so we'll see where that takes us. We know its a lot easier for women to get grants, so we'll first try doing it in my name. If anyone has any suggestions or know where to start as far as grants go, I would love to hear!!

Well, thats the gist of it. Were both excited for this new path ahead of us. Granted were now farther away from you all, but we'll be more financially stable so we will be able to visit once a year, yep, thats right!! We made an agreement we will make a trip out east once a year, so that I am really excited about. Lets see, its been over 2 years now since Ive seen family, long over due if you ask me!!!

Thats it for now I guess...love you all.

Photography by Jeannette

2008-11-24T21:06:00.000-07:00

Check out my work here! So far I only have my college photography up, but I will update soon with my most current work.

More Pictures of House!

2008-11-20T13:15:00.001-07:00

First you walk into the kitchen from the driveway

Then you turn and enter the living Room (where we spend most of our time)

You can see why here...men and their toys...ugh

Heres some before and after...notice the first one in the set theres a wall with a closet

Now theres not!

Your first left will be

The office...

There was flooring in it before, but we needed it for the dining room and hallway, we ran out and the store didnt carry it anymore!

Your next left will be the guest/Tinas bathroom:) Your next left will be the laundry room...eventually there will be shelves above the washer and dryer

Your next left will be the guest/Tinas bedroom:)

Then turn to your right and walk into the dining room

Then turn around into the formal living room

Then turn into our hallway and turn left into our master bath

I should note James did all the tile work! Im gonna miss the jetted tub, its wonderful!

Then walk into the master bedroom
I love this view of our bed...aaahhh
And last but not least, my dream closet!! I love Love LOVE it!!!

Well, hope you enjoyed the tour of the house! We have some one looking at it tomorrow who is really interested in it I guess, so heres hoping!

Hello? Anyone there?!

2008-11-18T13:23:00.000-07:00

Okay, I can honestly say I can count on one hand, actually half, maybe two fingers, of all the people I talk to on a regular basis, (which should be more, I know, Im so sorry to all my loved ones I neglect!) that actually listen to what I am saying, you know who you are:) UGH!! I feel like I am talking to a brick wall 90% of the time, between my husband, who I am growing more patient with, its not his fault he came from a family that just scream and yell, and my co workers I dont know what to do with myself! I am honestly considering hiring someone to just sit and listen to me whenever I need...oh yeah, they call those shrinks these days:) Lets give an example so you can better understand where I am coming from...I am at work and am telling a story about this past weekend to my co worker. Well, instead of actually looking at me, listening and responding, she just stares at her computer! Is she doing anything of importance you ask yourself? No, just shopping online. UGH! And then, my boss, a sweet lady I love dearly, not only doesnt listen to what your saying, while your talking thinks of what she wants to say and will cut you off when she decides she wants to talk. UGH! I GIVE UP!! No, not really. But Im getting there! I do have to give James a little credit, he is atleast trying and apologizes when he realizes he didnt listen to a thing I was saying. I guess Im more sensitive to this more now since I took a personal communications class in college, Im deffinitely more aware of my interations with others. I think everyone on the face of the planet should take it, specifically from Brother Embry, he was a fantastic teacher. I learned a lot that I can take with me to the heavens. I also just the other day found a great website that has some excellent information on Active Listening. Go there!

So thats my ranting and raving for the day. Hope you enjoyed!

Awesome Possum Quilts!

2008-11-14T08:48:00.000-07:00

Ok, so you have to check out this ladys site. She has some beautiful quilts. Shes doing a giveaway, so get on it! I promise youll love them. Go here

Josh Gracin Concert: Part II

2008-11-06T08:36:00.000-07:00

Here are the pictures and video of the ever so talented Josh Gracin...he put on a great show!

I have more pictures but these should suffice...look how close I was!

What I go through for my country!

2008-11-05T07:46:00.000-07:00

If you watched the Today show this morning, (which I always do before heading off to work, morning ritual) you saw that Missouri was undecided, too close to count...thanks to me!! Haha, no not really, but let me explain. I go to vote last night, drive a whole half hour out of my way. When I reach my voting destination, I am told I cant vote! Atleast at that location. Its where we were registered to vote, under my inlaws address where we used to live before our current location, we just hadnt gotten around to changing our address. Well, I call James because I see his signature right above mine, knowing he was able to vote that morning. He said I should be able to, they let him. Well, his father in law is in the background getting upset saying the same thing. So they end up coming over, James maintaining his distance outside while his Dad storms in demanding to know why I cant vote! At this point, I am ready to get out of that place and just go where they told me to, I couldnt believe how outraged he was! He was saying he was going to go the news media and tell them what happened, but first he would go over to the court house to see what they would say. But before I left, I made sure to give them my apologies for the outburst and that I understood they were just doing their job. The looks on their faces was priceless, like, "I understand, I have one of those at home too." Oh goodness, what an evening. Needless to say, I went back home to the location they told me to go to, gave them the information and got my ballot. Too bad my one vote didnt get me the results I wanted, oh well. It will be interesting to see what these next 4 years will be like. Ok, lets be serious here, Im scared out of my mind to see whats gonna happen these next 4 years! Just gotta have faith I guess. I need to get me a garden. (I know your laughing Tina:)

Halloween at Work!!

2008-10-31T09:04:00.000-06:00

Heres the whole gang!

Me and Chelsey... too cool for school 70's hippsters!

Uh, no comment... :)
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Think about it...

2008-10-30T13:00:00.000-06:00

My brother Zach a.k.a. Zsa~Zsa is pretty amazing when it comes to words. I just read one of his awesome posts, Wickedness Never Was Happiness, and was impressed by the ending quote. It made me think of a movie I love The Pursuit of Happiness, and what it represents. Theres nothing like a story of a man down on his luck and DOES something about it. Who strives for more out of life than what given him. Thats what this life is all about, right? We cant just expect things to happen to us, to get something for nothing. Otherwise, would we learn anything in the process? Would you truly appreciate it in the end? The answer is no.

"The Declaration of Independence asserts that we deserve 'not happiness stamps; not a department of happiness; not therapy for happiness. Pursuit"

-Newt Gingrich

Josh Gracin Concert: Part I

2008-10-29T08:22:00.001-06:00

I dont know why I havent gotten around to this! Shame on me...

He can never smile normal for a picture!
Me getting frustrated, as usual:)

Finally!
This is my co-worker Chelsey and her BF Casey, fun people!

Well thats all I got for now, dont worry, Josh himself will be coming soon!

What do you do...

2008-10-25T09:34:00.000-06:00

What do you get when you put a Baptist/Church of Christ, Jehovahs Witness and a Mormon in a small confined working space? You just dont wanna know...Well as it turns out, the B/C and M get a long just fine, its the JH that just doesnt fit in with the mix, and unfortunately causes a whole lot of drama...Im at my wits end, I swear!! The thing of it is, the JH is 52 hears old, you would think they would be mature and respectful...wrong. But hey, were all human right? And were all children of God, even if they dont think so and believe Im going to hell, to each his own. I know what I know and have to stick true to that. I let what they say go in one ear and out the other, or atleast try to. Half the time it has nothing to do with religion, just the fact that Im a measley insignificant person and can do nothing right, according to them of course. But hey, who cares!?!!? I know who I am and will let nothing change that.

Uhhh....The next Dancing with the Stars couple?!

2008-10-22T07:45:00.001-06:00

Now cmon, how hilarious is this? Someone has way to much time on there hands!!

A little perspective can change everything!

2008-10-16T13:46:00.000-06:00

Another one of those good emails worth sharing...

I AM THANKFUL:

FOR THE WIFE

WHO SAYS IT'S HOT DOGS TONIGHT BECAUSE SHE IS HOME WITH ME, AND NOT OUT WITH SOMEONE ELSE.

FOR THE HUSBAND

WHO IS ON THE SOFA BEING A COUCH POTATO,

BECAUSE HE IS HOME WITH MEAND NOT OUT AT THE BARS.

FOR THE TEENAGER

WHO IS COMPLAINING ABOUT DOING DISHES

BECAUSE IT MEANS SHE IS AT HOME,NOT ON THE STREETS.

FOR THE TAXES I PAY

BECAUSE IT MEANSI AM EMPLOYED.

FOR THE MESS TO CLEAN AFTER A PARTY

BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE

BEEN SURROUNDED BY FRIENDS.

FOR THE CLOTHES THAT FIT A LITTLE TOO SNUG

BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE ENOUGH TO EAT.

FOR MY SHADOW THAT WATCHES ME WORK

BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM OUT IN THE SUNSHINE

FOR A LAWN THAT NEEDS MOWING,WINDOWS THAT NEED CLEANING,AND GUTTERS THAT NEED FIXING

BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE A HOME.

FOR ALL THE COMPLAINING I HEAR ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT

BECAUSE IT MEANS WE HAVE FREEDOM OF SPEECH.

FOR THE PARKING SPOT I FIND AT THE FAR END OF THE PARKING LOT

BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM CAPABLE OF WALKING AND I HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH TRANSPORTATION.

FOR MY HUGE HEATING BILL

BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM WARM.

FOR THE LADY BEHIND ME IN CHURCH WHO SINGS OFF KEY

BECAUSE IT MEANS I CAN HEAR.

FOR THE PILE OF LAUNDRY AND IRONING

BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE CLOTHES TO WEAR.

FOR WEARINESS AND ACHING MUSCLES AT THE END OF THE DAY

BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN CAPABLE OF WORKING HARD.

FOR THE ALARM THAT GOES OFF IN THE EARLY MORNING HOURS

BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM ALIVE.

AND FINALLY, FOR TOO MUCH E-MAIL

BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE FRIENDS WHO ARE THINKING OF ME.

Simple Pleasures

2008-10-15T17:39:00.000-06:00

For those of you that arent aware of the the master mind of Stephenie Meyers, you should be! She is the author of the Twilight series: Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, & Breaking Dawn. I am completely and totally enthralled in her books, and am currently now on New Moon. I read Twilight in two days, which normally isnt unordinary, but these are 500 page books! They are the "I cannot put this book down for the life of me!" books, the "this is so good, I wont eat or sleep till I finish it!" type of book. I should also point out, the author is also LDS. How cool is that?! The movie "Twilight" comes on November 21st, which is a must see, I cannot wait. We all know movies never live up to the books theyre made after, but to see all the characters come to life will be really exciting to see.

Well, Im off to go clean house and then curl up in my warm blankets and read some more of these deliciously addictive books.

Smile from God

2008-10-13T08:49:00.000-06:00

Pretty amazing, huh? We get so many emails passed around at work, and some of them actually turn out to be pretty good. This one was sent during a not-so-good dat at work, and talk about a pick me up. It deffinitely put a smile on my face:)

Every now and then someone is in the right place at the right time with the right equipment.

Theres always more...

2008-10-09T07:02:00.000-06:00

Ive had several people now mention that James and I need to live in a bubble. Well, I realize after an experience yesterday I think theres a reason we dont have to. Because we have angels looking after us, or atleast James that is. Heres why:

Yesterday morning while getting ready for work, I heard on the radio there was an accident on the highway and that the exit before it would be closed so you should re-route your direction to work. I could have also sworn I heard my phone ring, but went on about my business getting ready for work. Later I would find out it indeed was ringing, and would regret not answering it. Well, when I got to work my co workers had more information about the accident, it being a 12 car pile up and a semi exploding. It was very disheartning to hear, especially since just the day before there was a horrible accident on the same highway involving a 84 year old going the wrong way on the exit ramp hitting another elderly lady head on, killing both. It was hard taking in all this information, knowing that there would be more dead in this accident. We kept hearing more information about it throughout the day, and about a half hour before leaving a co worker sent some pictures from the scene of the accident (shown below.) I couldnt believe my eyes. So I called James to see if he had heard about the accident, and sure I enough I hear the words I was supposed to earlier that morning: I was in it. To ease your obvious worries with that statement, he wasnt in the actual impact or hurt in any way, he had an angel make sure of that. Now the accident: There was an incredibly thick fog covering the ground that morning, a wall that was impossible to see through. When James had come upon it, he was initially going 70, the speed limit, and slowed down imediately to 50, when he saw a tractor trailer jack knifed across both lanes. He had to go off onto the median to get around the trailer, with a semi behind him barely stopping in time missing hitting him and the already wrecked traier. Remember how this was a 12 car pile up? Well when he drove through the accident, none of the cars were there yet, this all happened right behind him. Words do not describe how grateful I am that he followed his intuition to slow down, heaven only knows what would have happened if he didnt. Well, we do know what would have happened, I have the pictures to prove it. It makes me shudder just to think of it.

If you look closely, you can see the car underneath the semi towards the front, they said on the news two people in their cars were burned beyond recognition

So, I went to bed last night with not a new found appreciation for my husband, but an even greater one. He is one "lucky" guy with everything that has gone through and overcome, knowing that there have been several instances where he shouldnt be here with me today.

On a lighter note, I was on the radio this morning! The radio station I listen to every morning, Kysn 92.5, have what they call the "Wheel of games" and you call in to play the game. Well I called in for the first time, not thinking I would actually get through. The first call I got through! It was actually was really funny, the spinner landed on the Brain Buster, which the question was "What is one thing that people keep at their desk that makes them happy." Rob, one of the co hosts, jokes and says for him it would be a bottle of tequila, I just laughed that one off...my first guess was a cup of coffee...wrong, I commented that I have co workers that cannot function without their coffee so that was an ovious guess for me, we laugh, haha...next clue, you can sit it on the floor or on your desk and helps you breathe...second guess, a fan...wrong again, but Lori, the other co host, could see where I would have gotten that one...next clue, you dont have to feed it, just give it some H20...my third lame guess, I said I would have to go with an obvious answer and say water...water?!!? Man I felt dumb, Lori is like, "You dont give water to water" in a tone that said, "cmon now, really." So at this point I knew what it was, PLANT! I said it but they didnt hear me so they didnt say anything, leaving me to believe it wasnt the right answer, so they go on with the next clue...Lori: "Ok you know the song Addicted to Love?" Jeannette: "Yes" Lori: "The singers name is Robert...." Jeannette: (not knowing at all who the singer is) "Uh, I dont know!" Lori: "Ok, it stars with the letter P and ends in Lant!" Jeannette: "Plant! I already said plant!" They went on to say they didnt hear me say it, but when I heard it actually on the radio, 5 minutes later, you can hear me say plant! Haha...when I go by on lunch to pick up my delightful prize (a center piece jack-o-lantern with tea lights and pillsbury pizza rollups) Im gonna see if there is a way to get a recording of the morning show, to prove to one and all Im not a complete nimrod!

So that was my morning, a fun ride to work I must say! Nothing like making yourself out to be a goober on public radio in order to win a prize...good times:)

Grab a seat and a snack, this might take a while!

2008-09-29T18:22:00.000-06:00

First, I would like to apologize for my abscense. I dont have any good excuses, so I will not try to excuse my way out of it! So, I will update you on what has been going on for the past month or so...

Between surgerys, fires, stepping on nails, concerts and the flu, a lots been going on! I will start off with the surgery. James had knee surgery on September 11th, of all days. I made sure to wear my red white and blue, dont you worry:) His surgery went well is recovering very nicely. This surgery was a lot less evasive than past surgerys, so his recovery was a lot less painful and shorter.

James in front of the beginning flames

Next, fires. Oh my the fires. Well Friday the 19th James and I had a bon fire that evening, burning a bunch of wood/trash/couches from the house. Well, it was pretty masive to say the least. All was well when we went to bed, perodically checking in on it. Well, when we got up the next morning I went out to check on it, and some old logs from the old train tracks we had it on and somehow caught fire.

In awe of the rising flames

I loved the way the smoke was twirling in the wind

Mind you, they were about 2 feet away from the initial fire, so how they caught fire we have no idea. So, I go get James and we drench them for about a half hour, thinking they were done for. Well, later that afternoon James was gone at his friends and I was getting ready to head out myself, when I looked behind the house and noticed some smoke! I ran to where we had the fire and noticed that the logs were indeed not drenched enough and the grass and bushes behind them had caught fire. I call James in a panic, while trying the put the fire out but the hose wasnt reaching far enough. I was pretty hysterical at this point, having never had to put out a fire and the flames were spreading. In the middle of all the panic, I stepped on a nail, and when I say step, I mean the nail went straight through my foot. Oh my goodness it hurt so bad. Luckily it was a nail that had been through the fire, so we werent too worried about it. Well, I eventually ran over to my neighbors, or should I say hobbled is more like it, and they came over with their hose and helped me put it out. It was quite the afternoon! Mind you, our concert was that evening, so it was a jam packed full of adventure day.

Sitting and enjoying the beautiful sight of fire...

If you can, enlarge the picture so you can see James beautiful blue eyes, oh my the dazzle me!

I will have to share about the concert in another post, I dont have access to all my pictures right now.

I will share though an experience I had with a dog. Oh the poor dog. I was driving to work last week, Thursday I believe. On my way, driving along the busy road of 32nd street during early morning rush hour, there was the cutest little scruffy haired dog running alongside the busy road, in the opposite direction of the cars. Well, I luckily missed it, but unfortunately the car behind me didnt. I watched in my rear view mirror the poor innocent little thing get run over. I still get sick to my stomach when I think of it. Well, I pulled off on the next road and watched the person who hit drive off without a care. I couldnt believe it!! So I turned around and pulled off the side of the road to check on it, and it was surely still lying there in the middle of the road. It was located right after an intersection, so I kept debating during a red light getting out and picking it up and placing it off the side of the road, but I knew I would be risking my life in doing so. So, I had to drive away, crying my eyes out for the poor thing. When I got to work I told my boss about it and she called animal control for me to tell them of its whereabouts. I was sick all day, not knowing if it was okay or not! So after meeting with my attorney at lunch (I will go into further detail of this in a second, theres always more!) I called animal control and they said they didnt know anything, but to call the humane society and see if they would know. Sure enough, I called them and they said it was brought in and was currently at the vet...I exclaimed, "ITs ALIVE?!?!" The poor deaf lady on the other end assured me it was alive and being taken care of. What a relief that was for me, that was all I wanted to hear. At that point, all I wanted to do was find it and wrap it up in my arms and give it a big hug! But just knowing it was alive would have to suffice.

Now onto my meeting with the attorney. As it turns out, my insurance agent was wrong when he said I would more than likely be no longer involved in the case of this idiotic lady suing me. I got a letter a couple weeks ago from Farm Bureau telling me I was being appointed an attorney and he would be contacting me. At first, I didnt think much of it, dismissing it for the most part. Well last week I got a letter from the attorney, telling me when the trial dates would be! Needless to say I was freaking out at this point. James calmed me down assuring me that it doesnt necessarily mean its actually going to court, those were just tentative dates just in case. Sure enough, after meeting with the attorney he also assured me that there is less than a 3% chance of it going to court and that the worst that can happen to me is having to take work off for a couple days to sit in court. Our insurance at the time has us covered very well just in case they for some odd insane reason they win. Get this: the lady that is suing me, her lawyer is her son! Go figure. My attorney said thats more than likely the reason this has gone this far. Absolutely ridiculous. Its really sad to see how lawsuit hungry people are these days, just sad.

Well, I suppose that will be it for me for now. Sorry if I completely bored you to death! There is still more to update on, so I will save it for later. For now, were doing good and staying alive. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Forgive and Forget

2008-09-14T12:29:00.000-06:00

In addition to seeking forgiveness for our own sins, we must be willing to forgive others.

"I, the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men" (D&C 64:10).

Thank you to those who help me remember that.

Assuming...

2008-09-12T20:11:00.000-06:00

We all know the saying when it comes to assuming...so why do people still do it! Ugh, I had a situation tonight where a certain someone did just that, and words dont describe just how much it irked me, only because they assumed negative, not positive. One of my favorite quotes was given to me by my bishop, "Assume Positive Intent." Well they presented the situation first quite rudely, and put me in a bad light, all because they assumed the worst. Instead of just asking first hand the question that would have solved the whole mess in a kind manner, they made a choice not to. Oh well. Its over. I should not dwell. But the whole reason I share this situation is to remind people how much damage assuming really does do. Catch yourself before you assume the worst. If it ends up being so, atleast you didnt get yourself worked up about it and remained the bigger person. Be big. The End.

Update On James

2008-09-11T14:09:00.000-06:00

Well he finally is out of surgery (5 hours later) and is in recovery...Just waiting for him to wake up from the anesthesia...

So I found out why we had to wait so long...James was actually scheduled for surgery at 2:20! Well they told us to come in early because the doctor usually gets done early...well they ended up scheduling more people in, so it pushed James back...so instead of calling us to have us come in later, they had us come in and wait for 5 stinkin hours!! Oh well, at least he is alive and well. I really cant complain, even though I already did:)

Thanks for all the prayers...love you all!

I will continue to keep you all updated...

James Surgery

2008-09-11T09:05:00.000-06:00

Right now I am waiting for my husband to come out of surgery...yes, the time has come for the doctors to cut him open, rip out that cartilage, and sew him back up. Well, its actually less evasive than that, its an arthroscopic surgery where they make three little incisions, one for the camera, one for the knife, and the other I dont remember what for. The whole procedure only takes about an hour. This time though, were having it done at the bigger hospital, so theres more people and a longer wait. I dont like it at all. The last place, St. Johns, was way more personal and I just felt comfortable there. Oh well, at least Ive already been through it before so I know what to expect. James on the other hand has been through it, oh, 3 times already. This is is 4th time!! Weve both decided to just have the doctor take the miniscus out, knowing he will eventually have it taken out anyways...pause...

So I am now back with James waiting for him to actually go into surgery...two hours later!! I am furious as to how long this is taking. Last time, it only took 2 hours and we were in and out. I guess thats what you get for going to the bigger hospital. What has happened to customer service these days? I swear its diminishing every where I go.

I will keep you posted on how it goes, till then, I will try and keep myself from strangling the doctor...

James wasnt too keen on pictures, but I did anyways:)

Nothing like a shaved knee
You can tell he was fed up with pictures by now!

What would you do?

2008-09-10T07:02:00.000-06:00

Well, I found it very interesting watching the Today show this morning. It was just a testament to me that what I did last night, (mentioned in my last post) was the right thing to do. For those of you that dont know the story, just recently in Philadelphia there was a man on the subway who was maliciously beaten by a stranger with a hammer. The story is about how nobody did anything. It wasnt until the man had fled the scene that a man pulled the emergency switch on the train to stop. There were two strong and stout men that were there during the incident that very easily could have taken this man down, but didnt. Why? A lot are saying out of fear for their own safety, which I wont lie, I would be too. But the chief of police made a statement about it all that everyone should really consider..."Think if it were your own life, you better pray that someone would help you out." Just put yourself in their position, that might change your motivation. I think of 911, all those people on that plane that could have done nothing out of fear. But they did do something, they were brave and courageous, who put aside their fear and helped out their fellow men. That is true heroism.

Bad Boys, Bad Boys, Watcha gonna do...

2008-09-09T17:31:00.000-06:00

First, I would like to point out I am typing this post from my very own home! We finally have internet via Sprints wireless internet since we live in the boondocks, its the only thing we can get. We had to get it too, since James is now in school doing online classes. So, Im sitting outside enjoying the beautiful 70 degree weather, while typing this, aint life grand?:)
Ok, down to business. So I found myself on a chase today, if I were an actual cop I wouldve said a "high speed" chase, but since I am a law abiding citizen, I had to go the speed limit. Well, this chase involved a drunk driver, who made me so mad I had no choice but to follow him! For the sake of others safety of course, not to satisfy my rage for this man. Anywho, I was driving home after making my rounds of grocery shopping, which I must say I found some great deals! I digress...after going through an intersection this guy decides he wants to drive in the median, which he does for about a half mile! We now approach another intersection, which Im thinking at this point he's going to turn since hes still in the turn lane. NOPE!! He goes straight through, almost hitting people going the other direction and the people in the lane to his right! I couldnt believe my eyes! So I get behind him to watch him and sure enough he is swerving in and out of the lanes. This outrages me, so I call James to get the polices phone number. Well, by the time I call were in another county, so they give me that county police depts. number. Well, by the time I get a hold of them, were almost in Kansas, a good 15 minutes out of my way. I had to stop and turn around, but not before I got his liscense number and make/model of his car. I gave them the information, which they told me they would dispatch. So who knows if he'll get caught or not, I sure hope he does though. Ive been personally affected by these horrible people, after James accident being hit by someone under the influence, I am deffinitely more aware of the people around me. It kills me that there are still people who do, just recently here a couple was killed on their motorcycle by someone who was drunk at the wheel. So, my inate reaction was to get this guy. If I had a gun and knew how to use it, I would have gotten his tires, made him spun out and stop, grabbed him out of the car, and yelled at him. But alas, Im just measly little Jeannette and all I could do was call the cops.
Well, hope you enjoyed a day in the life of Jeannette. A working, law abiding, photographer, home maker, drunk driver chaser. If only I had a picture of me doing all of these, that would be awesome! Im getting on that right now...

Chaulk another one up for James

2008-08-29T09:50:00.000-06:00

Well, after several visits with the doctors and an MRI, James has to have another knee surgery. Not on the one he already had one on which was the left, but now the right which is from the accident. He originally was experiencing pain in his heel which eventually went to his knee. He went to see the doctor about it in which he told him he needed an MRI, which led to finding out the miniscus either needs to be reparied or removed. In the long run, it would be best for him to have it repaired, but unfortunately its a 6-8 week recovery, and we simply cant afford for him to be off work that long. We barely made it by when he was off work for 5 weeks living off savings which is gone, there just simply isnt any way we could do it again. So, James has decided to just have it completely removed which the recovery is only a couple days. I worry for him a great deal, with only being 24 and already having 4 major knee surgerys, his future isnt looking to bright right now. The that makes me feel the worst and sick the most about all of this, is that I cant do whats best for my husband because I cant afford to. I dont know. Im praying we can work something out but for now he's pretty set on having it removed. Any extra prayers would be nice and sincerely greatly appreciated.

She gave me the verse...

2008-08-25T08:30:00.000-06:00

...ACTS 15:28,29

28 For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;

29 That ye abstain from meats offered to a idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well.

Still dont see where it says to not do blood transfusions....

Question

2008-08-25T08:07:00.000-06:00

Ok, so I need your help...I work with a Jehovas Witness and I must say it has been really interesting learning about what she believes and why. We have some interesting religious discussions, and one that just came up was how they dont take blood transfusions because in the "bible says not to." She was saying its in Acts where they were talking about how they ate blood and that Christ told them not to, so thats how they get that...??? Um, Im trying to find that in Acts and I cant find it! Mind you, they have theyre own bible and I asked her if it was in her bible and she said "Its in all the bibles", but I cant find it. Can any of you help me out on this? I just wanna see the scripture that they have manipulated to their own meaning. Its really sad if you ask me. She is the most arrogant and ignorant person I have ever met. They will shun you if you are not of their religion, and I know would not help someone out if they were not their religion. I have seen it first hand, it makes my blood boil. Oh well, I know who I am and I know the truth so I try to not let it get to me.
Anyways, thanks for helping in advance!!

Gordon B. Hinckley

2008-08-23T22:13:00.000-06:00

Being a lover of out beloved late Gordon B. Hinckley, I decided I needed to pay a little tribute to him as well. Being the prophet when I first joined the church, I always felt close to him, he spoke the most to me. He was such a gentle loving man, but was so strong and firm in his teachings and example. And that he was, an amazing example I will always remember. So I will share some of my favorite quotes from him:

“This is my prayer for all of us—'Lord, increase our faith.' Increase our faith to bridge the chasms of uncertainty and doubt. . . . Grant us faith to look beyond the problems of the moment to the miracles of the future. . . . Give us faith to do what is right and let the consequence follow.”

“This cause will roll on in majesty and power to fill the earth. Doors now closed to the preaching of the gospel will be opened. The Almighty, if necessary, may have to shake the nations to humble them and cause them to listen to the servants of the living God. Whatever is needed will come to pass.”

“Under the plan of heaven, the husband and the wife walk side by side as companions, neither one ahead of the other, but a daughter of God and a son of God walking side by side. Let your families be families of love and peace and happiness. Gather your children around you and have your family home evenings, teach your children the ways of the Lord, read to them from the scriptures, and let them come to know the great truths of the eternal gospel as set forth in these words of the Almighty.”

Concert Time!

2008-08-22T07:02:00.000-06:00

Its official, James and I are going to see Josh Gracin in Concert!!! I am so stoked!!! For those of you less familiar with him, here are some of his hits:

*We werent crazy

*Nothin to lose

*I want to live

*Stay with me (Brass Bed) (my personal favorite)

Anyways, he's coming to our local town Neosho, only a half hour away, so I didnt mind spending a couple extra dollars for good seats since we wont be spending it on gas to travel. I begged James a couple weeks ago to go see Jason Mraz in St. Louis, but since its a 5 hour drive and on a Sunday, it was a no go. So when I saw last night that Josh Gracin was coming to town, one of my favorite country singers, I HAD to go! It took a little convincing of James, but since we got this whole love thing going on, he couldnt say no:) Now, the only thing that would make this perfect is if my friends Nicole and Anna were here to go with me, we had some good times jamming out to his music:)

Yay for good times and good memories to come!!!