The Whittier Way

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T09:37:00.000-07:00

I know that my redeemer lives.

What comfort this sweet sentence gives. He lives-He lives, who once was dead-

I love the lines to this song. Today is Easter-usually a fun day. Carley has been sick so its been no fun at all. As she was lying on the couch with her head on my lap. I thought, "Oh how I wish I could take the pain away from her." It made me think about my savior and my heavenly father and how he must think the same thing every-time I have pain or sorrow. I am so grateful for my savior and for the knowledge I have that he suffered for me to be able to live with him again. Happy Easter!!!

Why am I so behind?

2011-03-26T19:58:00.000-07:00

I always make a goal to update this blog. I never get around to it. But tonight I made myself sit down at the computer to do it. So here goes!! Lets see since my last post. We've run a marathon-gotten a second job, gotten a dog, had a christmas, and my 35th birthday. Thats right I said 35. It was traumatic to me too at first, but im trying to embrace my age. Which is really saying im denying it! But I have a list of 35 new things I want to do in my 35th year and I hope I get to finish them all. So this is gonna turn into my 35 blog! But before I let you in on my 35 things I need to post pics of our last 6 months. So here they are!

After running the St George Marathon. My 3rd Marathon. Kathy's 1st Gregg and Camie's 10th and Pandy's 6th. I have Great siblings!!

Carley wanted to be the queen of hearts for Halloween. We couldnt find a costume- So I made this one. It turned out AMAZING!!

Anyone who knows me knows im a HUGE Utes fan. They had the chance to play Notre Dame this year - I jumped at the chance!! This is a pic from the Sears tower. Chicago is so cool!!

Me in front of Touchdown Jesus! Go Utes!!!

Our seats were AMAZING right at ground level!! It rained the whole time and the Utes played crappy, but it was such a great experience- to be at this holy field. One of the best experiences of my life!!!

Christmas Morning. This is Carley's new Dog Roxy. She is a cute dog but for sure a puppy!

Like I said I love the Utes- They went to the Vegas Bowl this year- So we decided to go to the game. This was Carley on the long drive down!!!

This was us getting ready to go to the game. We were so excited. The Utes sadly lost but we had a great few days!!

Thoughts from a 9 year old

2011-02-21T12:54:00.000-08:00

So I havent posted forever and Carley is bored. So I told her she could post on here.
Here we go.......

last christmas I wanted a puppy despretly, so I asked my Mom for one and the answer was ''At your Dads house''. So i asked my Dad ''At your moms house ''. Christmas was coming up and all I wanted was a puppy.
Christmas morning, I was coming into the living room & I heard a Dog squeel. I got a puppy (fianally)!!!!!! My Mom wanted to name it Marley, because it looked liked Marley on ''Marley & me'' & i wanted to name it Roxy. Since it was my dog i got to name it. So her Full name is ''Roxanne Shawdy Whittier.
from,
carley

Sentimental Journey

2010-10-22T10:35:00.000-07:00

It seems like lately I've been very nostalgic. I found a disk that was from my old computer before it died. I decided to see what was on it. It was full of pics and I took a walk down memory lane. It was such a good trip! Last night I was working and wanted to be done. My job is an easy one- Customer service, but there are some days, ok really, most days- I hate talking to irate, over reacting customers. I was trying to get VTO, (voluntary time off) something that is my guilty pleasure and I have a love/hate relationship with. Love it when I get it, Hate it on paydays! I digress-anyways- I was trying to get VTO and I heard Carley and my Dad laughing. Although I couldn't hear what he was saying to her it made her laugh, the kind of laugh that comes from deep within her belly. My favorite sound in the world. I wanted to know what was so funny- So I kept REALLY trying for VTO. I finally got it, and went to see what was so funny. They were at the table eating dinner. He was telling her stories from when he was little. The saying "Family- isn't it about time?" popped into my head. I am so grateful for my family. I really don't know how I could survive without them. I never thought as I was growing up that I would be in the place I am today. Who really thinks that they will be a divorced, single, mom, struggling to survive. I only know that I am who I am today because of my family.

My Dad-
He is my hero. He can be gruff, rough, angry, upset, compassionate, soft, gentle, understanding and loving. He is the worlds GREATEST grandpa. Just ask anyone of his grand kids. He is the babysitter for all the kids and they all love to be with grandpa. The best part about my dad is he "gets" me. My dad and I have a special bond. I go to him with any problems or concerns or when something good happens. I am very lucky to have him and I am proud to call him my Dad.
My Mom-
She is a very giving person. She is an amazing grandma. She tries to never miss an event that any of her kids and grand kids are in and because of that she is always on the go. She loves her church and will let you know her testimony of it. She is a talker and will make friends with whoever is around. She loves to dance and will dance for anyone around!! She is very charitable, trusting, loving, and kind. She is passionate about festival of trees. She loves to travel. I am proud to call her my Mom.

My brothers and Sisters Ive talked about before and I think they are all amazing!! I'm am great full I have them in my life. I am proud to be a Bahr! This post is getting long- Here are some pics I found on that disc! Time marches on- whether we like it or not!

Carley 7 months I think

She had hermit crab that she loved almost 2 yrs old

At Temple Square- 5 yrs old

Being Crazy like always! almost 2 yrs old.

Summer lovin'

2010-09-08T19:57:00.000-07:00

I cant believe the summer is over already. It was a fun summer but it went by way to quickly. Being the Mom that I am I tried to pack as much into it as possible. Well that's not the exact truth. Usually in August I realize that we haven't done everything I wanted to do for the summer so we end up cramming fun stuff in the last few weeks of the summer! I guess that's OK for now. One day I will be on the ball and spread our fun over all the summer.... well maybe not!
We hiked to Timp Cave on morning. I had forgotten how much of a bugger the hike was. We did have fun and the cave is still as cool as ever!

Carley at the base of the mountainOne of the cool tunnels on the way to the cave.

Finally at the cave! Waiting for our time.
Inside the cave. Carley looks like her head is on backwards!

One of the cool formations. Me being super childish laughed at the ones that reminded me of other things!!!!

We went to the aquarium with Kathy, Greg, Sky, and Damon. It was the first time I had been there. I was impressed that they could turn a craft store into an aquarium!

Stingrays. Carley and Damon loved to touch them. Sky not so much. It took him awhile to get the courage to touch the slimy little suckers!

Damon touching a ray.
I loved the jellyfishes.

Damon, Carley, and Skyler

I decided it was time to teach Carley how to sew. She wanted to make a purse out of an old pair of jeans. We looked online for a pattern and decided to make our own. We measured and cut. She pinned it and then I taught her how to use the machine and she went to town!

Finished product! You can tell it was the end of the weekend- such a clean house!!

Carley's first day of fourth grade. She is really excited to have the teacher she has. She is in a 4th/5th grade split class. I was a little worried, but she is doing amazing already!

Standing outside of her classroom!

2010-08-01T11:54:00.000-07:00

We had the chance to go to Capital reef for a family reunion. It was a lot of fun and beautiful! I haven't ever been there before, and I fell in love wtih it. It really is indescribable! I also had the chance to go to Boston. My parents were going there for a week and Kathy and I decided we would meet them on the weekend. It was fast, fun trip.

Beautiful red rocks of capital reef.

The deer were in our campground and really tame!

Carley sneaking up on a deer.

More amazing red cliffs.

The sky seemed so blue against the red rocks.

Hiking to some petroglyphs

Talent show at the reunion!! My Mom got a crazy idea that she heard from someone and suckered my Dad into doing it. My Dad bribed Carley 5 bucks to do it. I however could not be bribed!!!

More hiking- well it seems more resting than hiking, but it was while we were hiking!

All of my Dad's siblings and their spouses except my Uncle Don.

All of my cousins that were at the reunion

We made it to Boston and my we decided to go to Cambridge and see Harvard first.

Cool brick fences are all over Harvard.

Of course we had to see Fenway park and the big green monster. We tried to get tickets to the game but it was sold out and scalpers wanted at least $100 for tickets. Thats way to spendy for my budget so we just looked around it and took pics. Hopefully we will be back there soon to see a game.

We did the freedom walk and it was really cool. This is were Samuel Adams is buried.

This is Paul Revere's house. We were going to go in but it was a huge long line and super freaking hot, so we bypassed it!

Kathy and I went to my work party while we were there and it was at Thompson's Island. They shuttled us over on a ferry and there were a ton of sailboats. This is one that I thought was pretty cool!

Bunker Hill. It was interesting to note that the battle of bunker hill actually was not on bunker hill. But very cool none the less!!

We found this cool little town called Nantastic Beach. It isnt like most beaches Ive ever been too-very rocky. But there were still a lot of people laying out and playing in the ocean. The sun was starting to set and it was amazing!

Mom and Dad at Nantastic Beach

The beautiful sunset over downtown Boston.

Happy 4th!

2010-07-21T11:02:00.000-07:00

Our family has a tradition on the 4th of July. We sleep out the night before the parade on the parade route. We have done it since I was young. This year was no exception. We had a blast and watched a fun parade.

Our spot. Greg brought a grill and we grilled steaks, burgers, chicken, and hot dogs. We always bring enough food and treats to feed and army!

Chuck and Vern Grill masters

Damon, Jaxon, and Jace grubbin.

Jade, Gwynie, Carley,Mia, and Sydney trying to get cars to honk at them. Jessica told them if they got to 100 cars they could have a treat. They did!

The Master bedroom!

Nestled all snug in their bags with visions of parade candy dancing in their heads!

Carley, Mia, Gwynie, and Jade waking up watching the hot air balloons.

View from my bed-I slept on a lawn chair- NOT comfortable
The parade was full of military men. There were also families of fallen soldiers in the parade. It made all of us emotional. Pandy standing and clapping for one of the families.

I am proud to be an American- I know that I am free because of all the brave men and women who sacrifice so much for me to be and stay free. Thank you Military men and woman!!

Madame President!! Dont make me laugh

2010-06-30T16:53:00.001-07:00

Ok so Officially I become the president of the PTA for Carley's school tomorrow. I have so many ideas swarming my head. I am really excited- and I think this next year is gonna rock. Anyways the summer is totally flying by. I cant believe its already July. We have been spending time at the pool and just hangin out. All in all its been a pretty good summer. In May we got our pics taken here is a little of what we have done!

The reason I love living in Utah! 15 mins from my house-is my favorite spot in the world. Provo canyon is the greatest place ever. I love the summer when I hop in the car and hop on the trail- this one is my favorite!

One of the best dinners ever! It was delish!!!

Strawberry days!! We look forward to this every year. The PG fire dept carried the flag this year.

This is Gwynnie's first year in the parade. 7th grade Cheerleaders!!!

Kathy, Camie, and Holden. Watchin the Parade!

All the Kiddos having fun getting candy!

The best part about Strawberry days..... the strawberries and cream. I could eat these all day long!

We had an awesome storm and I had to get a pic of the clouds and sunset. I love where I live!

Same storm just a few mins later. It was a great summer storm.

Real Housewives of Utah County

2010-05-26T15:15:00.000-07:00

Our trip to NYC was amazing. We took the red eye and went straight to the Today show. Our sign had all of our kids names and on the other side it said Real housewives of Utah County! We had a blast!Laney, Nancy,and Camie holding the sign! Matt Lauer shaking Camies hand. He actually was nice that day!
Natalie, Matt and Ann. We had a way cool spot to see what was going on. Natalie and Anns shoes we such spikes this pic doesnt do them justice! Chevy Chase or Sparky as we called him at the Today show. He is still funny as ever!
On Sunday we went to the museums and Central Park. It was rainy and foggy and beautiful!!! I wanted to take more time in the park. I think I could stay there for hours and hours!More Central park!On our way to Canal street one day we stopped at an italian restaurant. Hands down the BEST ive ever had. I almost licked my plate!!! Camie walking across the Brooklyn bridge. It was so cool to be there! Just a cool shot I got of the Brooklyn bridge.We went to the world trade center gallery and the construction of the new freedom towers that are going in. I lost it in the gallery. I was watching a movie about one of the firefighters fathers who was one of the only ones who found his sons bodies still intact. As I was fighting back the tears from the movie a woman walked up to one of the photos, pointed to one and said that was her son. She told of how they found his body under a bench. I am so greatful to all the policemen, firemen, military, and emergency crews who work hard to keep me safe. It was a humbling experience.The "lost" signs from after the towers fell down that were plastered around the city.Camie, Laney, and Nancy on the boat to see lady liberty!Me, Laney, and Camie with the Statue of Liberty! Let freedom ring!Nancy, me, and Camie at Ellis island. Would you be willing to pack all you own into a couple of trunks and leave your home and family to go somewhere thinking it might be a better place? Ellis Island stairs. Nancy, Camie, LaneyOf course one of the greatest things to do in NY is eat. We ate at Serendipity. The food was ehh- but the frozen hot chocolate is a MUST do!!! Nancy and Laney with the frozen hot chocolate! Can you say YUM? It totally was Delish!More food?!!! Magnolia bakery has awesome cupcakes!! They were so yummy-Wish I had one right now!!Camie and me outside of Dillans candy shop. This place has every candy you could ever imagine! We went to the wax museum and me and Sammy just chilled!!! Posin for the poparatzzi!Camie and Nancy starring in Bollywood!!!We stayed at the Times Square Hilton, thanks to Laney-(I didnt know Laney before this trip, and I just have to say she is one of the nicest/greatest people ive ever met!) This is the view from our hotel room. It was earth day so the empire state building was green! Can I just say What a view!!! It was amazing. I loved to just sit by the window and watch! Almost better than reality tv... I said almost!!View from the top of the rock. This is the Central Park side! It is amazing!

The other side of the the view from the top of the rock. I heart NY!!!!

Time flies

2010-05-24T08:44:00.000-07:00

Where has the time gone? It seems the older I get the faster is goes. We had an amazing spring break in Florida. The only problem was it was colder in Orlando then it was in Utah! I also went on a really fun girls trip to New York. In between was sandwiched school, work, birthdays, and everyday life! Here are some pics from the last few months.

Carley at the JFK. We took the red eye to JFK and then because of rain our flight was cancelled and then the next flight was full. We waited for 5 hours in JFK thank goodness there are a lot of flights to Orlando from JFK!!!

We spent our first day at the Magic Kingdom. It was so much fun. Of course Carley had to get autographs of all her faves! Carely with Daisy!

Carley's Favorite had always been Tinkerbell. We waited in line FOREVER to get into pixie hollow! It was worth the wait. The fairies were very fun and talked to Carley for quite a while.

Next we went to Mickey and Minnie's houses and met them for a pic!Because we stayed at a Disney property they had magic hours. The Magic kindgom was open until 3 a.m. Thats right 3 a.m. We only made it till about 1130 but it was really fun. The teacups are my fave!The next day we went to Animal kingdom. It was really fun. Carley loves animals and had a great time!

The next day was epcot. They were having a flower festival. The topiaries were all made into characters. It was very impressive. We had a lot of fun in epcot.

Tinkerbells houseThe water show/fireworks in epcot. This was a huge globe that floats across the water during the fireworks and opens up. It was really cool.
We loved the Hollywood studios(used to be called MGM) Carley's favorite ride was Aerosmiths rockin roller coaster! The lines were so long, but she kept wanting to go on it. Luckily we were able to get fast passes and go a few times!!

We stayed at the Pop Century Resort. It was great to be able to come back to the room if we needed a break from the day! It was a GREAT spring break!! I cant wait to go back!

Photograpy

2010-04-02T09:19:00.000-07:00

So my friend Erin is an amazing photographer and she is having a contest. I want to win!! Check out her blog, she is fantastic! http://erinsummerillphotography.com/blog/

Sibling Rivalry!

2010-03-08T10:18:00.000-08:00

I have the most amazing brothers and sisters in the world. I am so blessed to have them. Each one is so different and is just amazing at what they do. Whenever I need a pick me up or anything at all they are there. All I need to say is HELP and everyone of them come running! A lot of people think its weird that I like to spend as much time as possible with them. They are the Best and I love them eternally!!! They are also the best aunts and uncles to my daughter. I couldn't have asked for anything better!!

I spent time with Shellee this weekend and she is such and inspiration to me. When I grow up I wanna be just like you. She is the most talented person I know. She is smart, funny, artists and just overall amazing!!!

Carley and Shellee at Joann's picking out an art project! She is one of the most amazing aunts ever!!

Pandy has the most amazing singing voice ever. She would get a yellow paper that sends her straight to Hollywood for sure!! She is also very giving and has my back whenever needed!! She is one of the hardest workers there is.

Gregg and chad coaching at ALA. Gregg is a great big brother. I was having a pity Karen day yesterday-and asked for advice from Gregg. He didn't patronize me with the usual things that most people say to single moms- He is great at telling me what I need to hear! Thanks for be a great big brother!!! Its amazing to me to watch him not only with his kids but with other peoples kids too- He is very compassionate.

Kathy is the most giving person next to my dad. She is the most loving and accepting person ever. She is so sweet and would do anything for me or for Carley. She has the greatest attitude of anyone I know!

I had to put this of Kath in here. She doesn't know I took it!! It was while we were driving home from St George!!

Last but not least is my baby brother Chad. Chad has been one of my best friends since he was born. He is so awesome. He is one of the best coaches ever. He loves to have fun and is so talented in sports. He is great with kids and is so patient with Carley.

I don't know what I would do without Shellee, Pandy, Gregg, Kathy, and Chad. Thanks guys your the greatest!

Christmas and the new year

2010-03-01T12:48:00.000-08:00

Ok so I totally suck at be a good blogger! Its just that life has gotten so crazy that I have put it on the back burner. But I will keep trying. Here are just a couple of pics from our last few months.

Carley and I have a tradition that we go to the Nutcracker every year. We dress up, go to dinner and then the show. This year was no different except we were running late and we weren't able to go to dinner before. So we went after. I asked Carley where she wanted to go and all she wanted was Chic-fil-a. So we ate at chic-fil-a after!! It was really fun and my daughter is amazing.

Carley in front of the big nutcracker

We had a spa night and did mud masks. It was Carley's first time for a mask and it was so funny to watch her as it hardened.

The finished beautiful clean faces!

Changing Seasons

2009-11-01T19:51:00.000-08:00

Carley and I took a drive up to squaw peak last week. The leaves were amazing. This was the first time that she had been up there and she was a little nervous at first. We had a great talk on the way up and I got to explain why the leaves change to her. She is growing up so fast and it amazes me how much she knows. Ive started to realize that as the seasons change I tend to look inward and see what I need to change. I have a few things that want to change and am starting to work on. I am thankful for the seasons and how they help me!!

Carley posing in front of the leaves
Me and my sweet baby!! Not bad for a self portrait!

Us being crazy like always!

Cheering and fun

2009-10-17T17:27:00.000-07:00

Carley has been on a cheer squad since September. Their games started in October. They cheer for flag football. It has been a lot of fun watching her learn to cheer. I guess deep down inside I will always be a Viking cheerleader and im glad that Carley is now having the chance. Funny part I remember a lot of the cheers and a lot of them are the same!! I am the cheer mom and its been fun to watch the girls and have fun with them.

Carley cheering for the Vikings!

More Viking Cheer!

Carley kept taking pics of me on the way to St George to the marathon. I needed some sleep!

The Start of the marathon!

St George been there done that

2009-10-06T09:11:00.001-07:00

Last weekend was the St George Marathon. I am not a runner nor do I claim to be a runner! I try and that's the best I can do. I was still unsure if I was going to run and be able to finish a week before the race. I haven't been training the way I should. Its crazy how much time I don't have. Trying to be a Mom, work, go to school, be a cheer mom, taxi, PTA, sister, aunt, and try to have a little social life leaves hardly anytime for training for a marathon. But I made the decision that I would do it. My farthest training run was only 9 miles. Those of you who know anything about running should cringe now!! We left for St George on Thursday and the weather was amazing! The morning of the run turned out great. It was chilly at the start, but by the time we got started it was beautiful. I am amazed at the scenery surrounding the St George area. I made the first 7 miles the fastest I've ever run!! Then came Veyo! Veyo is a little town that is from mile 7 to about 9 its all up hill and its very deceiving. Just when you think you've gotten to the top theres more hill!! I made it luckily! I got an amazing runners high at about mile 14-16 where my ipod was rockin and the terrain was a little down hill! There is really no explaining how the high feels. I guess that's really why I run.
All in all it was a great weekend. I am still sore and the blisters on my feet are just starting to feel better! I will post pics as soon as I find them!!

Mi vida loca

2009-09-16T21:58:00.000-07:00

Well I promised to put something every week- I'm trying hard to do it. I am feeling very melancholy this evening and I'm not sure why. Well i guess there are a few reasons. I was in class today and there is nothing like sitting and studying around 18 year olds to make you feel really old!! I have a study group that met this afternoon and of course there were 3, 18 yr olds, 2, 21 yr olds, and then me! I don't know why it hit me so hard, but it did. I'm not a fan of getting older! I went to dinner last night with my awesome friend Jeff. He has been in Afghanistan on his 3rd deploy and got home last month. We were talking about some of his experiences. He is truly my hero. I cant believe some of the things he told me. Jeffrey, thank you for all that you have done for me and this country. You are an incredible person!
When I got home I watched the biggest loser. They were talking about second chances. It really had me thinking about what I would change if I could do it all over again. There are a few times in my life I wish I had a mulligan/do over! One actually is tonight- you know who you are and I said I'm sorry and I really meant it and I hope we can still be friends! Cuz your are one of the most amazing men I have ever met. I look up to you and the way you are with your daughter and how you handle life-You truly are remarkable.
Well this turned into a sappy post. I guess that's what happens when you are running on zero sleep in the last few days. I hope all of you that read this know that I love ya'll and I am thankful for you! Big Kisses to ya'll MUUUUAAHHH!

I heart NY

2009-09-05T09:27:00.000-07:00

So here is the rest of the story.... After the Today show Carley really wanted to go to the American Girl Doll store. So I fugured out where it was and we were on our way. We bought some umbrellas from guys on the street and Carley was in awe that the guys just stand there all day and sell umbrellas!! We found the American Girl Doll store and went in. We decided to have lunch at the store. If you dont know about these dolls-they are kind of spendy. Carley has wanted one, but I have a hard time spending over a hundred dollars on one doll. They are very cute, but still spendy. While we were in line for lunch I noticed that Carley was the only girl who didnt have a doll to eat with her. I know what parent guilt feels like, and I also know what it feels like to be left out of things. At that moment I wanted to run and buy her a doll, buy money didnt permit it. Carley also noticed that everyone else had a doll. I asked her if she wanted to go somewhere else for lunch-she thought about it and said "Its ok if I dont have a doll. I dont care. It doesnt bother me." She is such an inspiration to me. She is amazing. We got to the matrie'd and he asked us how many dolls would be dining with us. Carley said, "I dont have a doll." The Matrie'd said, "well daring come with me-id like you to dine with our of our dolls." They had loaner dolls. Carley go so excited. She picked a doll and it turned out to be a great lunch. They had little notes on the table that had questions for us to ask each other. I think that my daughter taught me a lesson at that lunch for sure. What a special girl I have. I am so blessed to have her with me. God for sure knows what he is doing! After lunch we went to some other stores and walked passed the CBS studios and Journey was playing a concert. We listened to a few song and then went into Fao Schwarts. We then walked by Central Park and were so tired and cold and wet that we decided to call it a day. All in all it was a great 24 hours!

The Salon at American Girl you make an appointment for your doll to get her hair done!
Lunch at American Girl!We went into Tiffanys I am teaching her young!! She now knows that the little blue box is a good thing!

The guard at FAO

The famous BIG piano. Carley had a blast dancing just like Tom Hanks

Journey playing dont stop believing..My theme song

One more pic of my amazing daughter American Girl. I hope Santa brings her a doll!

New York, New York or how much can you shove into 24 hours

2009-08-30T21:41:00.000-07:00

When I heard that Miley Cyrus was playing on the Today show- I thought Carley would love that. I soo need a break I wanna take her. I got online and started researching how the whole today show concert series works. With not much luck I decided that in order to see Miley up close we would need to be at Rockefeller Plaza by 4am. Doable, crazy, but for sure doable. I checked flights and red eye didn't get in until 520 am so if we did that we probably wouldn't be able to see Miley. I also was scheduled to work both Friday and Saturday. I would need help. I couldn't find anyone to cover my shifts-so I went into pleading mode. I had an angel (thanks Amber) take my Saturday shift. Only 6 hours needed to be covered and we could have a great trip to NY. I called the Today show to see if perchance if we did end up flying on Thursday night what would be the chances of us getting anywhere close to the stage. Long story short girl at Today show was no help. Thursday came and no one could take my shift. I was starting to feel bummed. Sometimes if my work is slow they will offer time off. So I sat by the computer praying all day to have time off. finally at 5:15 pm they offered time off and I got it. So I started frantically getting ready. Order car service, get hotel, pack and be at airport by 10pm. easy right? Not really- I could find a hotel under $350 a night in the Manhattan area, so I decided that it was gonna be a short trip. get into NY at 520am leave NY same day at 830pm. why not right? Well Carley is such a good sport and was really excited, I was too!! Game on! Flight was as good as can be expected-love the even more leg room especially when you are trying to sleep! Carley was way too excited to sleep. Finally I told her to close her eyes and she laid on my shoulder. About half and hour left of the flight and multiple times of stopping her from snuggling into the nice man sitting next to her she woke up. The flight finally landed-Carley walked off the jet way and said, "Hello New York" ala Hannah Montana style. We rushed to the baggage and found the car service waiting outside. We were on the road and out of JFK within 15 mins of landing. It was raining outside and the Car service guys said it would stop soon. (Yeah right big freaking liar!) we pulled up to 47th and 5 Ave. there were hoards of girls ages 5-25 with their parents in tow! Tons of poster-crap I forgot our poster-o well. If Miley doesn't know we heart her by now she never will. We could barley see the stage. We were standing next to a man and his daughter. He thought we could get closer-so we finagled our way up closer. Not as close as we wanted, but close enough to make me happy! It started raining harder (read dramatic pouring rain). We couldn't leave our spot to get an umbrella or we would lose our closer spot. We had fun. Natalie Morales even came over and talked/laughed at Carley. Carley got to shake her hand. Miley put on a good 1/2 hour concert. All in all we had a great morning. Wet, freezing, and super tired fun. Stay tuned for the rest of the New York story!

We were soaked but we were having so much fun!

Moving closer to the stage!

Carley and Natalie Morales

Singing with the foam mic they gave her

Summer does fly by

2009-08-23T20:06:00.000-07:00

Its been forever since I have posted. Sorry everyone! I am making a goal to blog once a week-ok once a month!! Since summer flew by I will post pics from our summer and the last of school!

Carleys class on field day. Miss Westenskow's 2nd grade class. Carley running in a rely. She is a strong runner, but needs more stamina!

Taylor Swift concert. She had a blast and I have to say, I did too!

More Taylor Swift fun

Carley's 2nd grade dance festival.

I have more pics. I post them later

Disneyland here we come!!

2009-04-13T17:41:00.000-07:00

I originally tried to post this before we left, but im an idiot!! I love technology!!

We are going to the Big D land on Tuesday morning!! Carley is so excited. I am excited too. We are meeting Kevin and Alex there. They are flying from Pittsburg and will fly in on Monday night!! Its not Carley's spring break, but its Alex's so Kev gets her for that, so we thought we would get the girls together for some fun. I hope it turns out great and itsnt too crowded!!

Proud Mom

2009-03-06T14:19:00.000-08:00

So I have to brag!! Went to Parent teacher conferences this last week and my Daughter is the smartest girl alive!! She is reading at 1 1/2 years ahead of her grade and almost a year ahead in math. She is amazing. I have to stay on my toes with this one the force is strong with her!!!

Crazy life

2009-03-03T12:59:00.000-08:00

Its been a while since I last updated, and we have done a ton of stuff so here are some random pics of the last few weeks!! Carley and Kevin playing American Idol on the Wii
Kevin and I having a lunch break while skiing at Alta. It was a beautiful day for skiing!

We went coat shopping and Kevin found this awsome pink Spyder coat. It was only $450.00 You just cant pass that deal up!!

Especially with the wicked spyder on back!

We went to Sushi and Carley hated it. I told her if she ate a california roll she could have Jamba juice, we couldnt find a Jamba, so she opted for ice cream!!

Happy VD!!!

2009-02-17T14:35:00.001-08:00

My Valentines Day was great!! I had the best Valentine!! Carley and I got up early and spent the morning at the spa. Then we went to breakfast. After that we went shopping. What a great day!!! Carley made hats for us to wear. They were the exact same, except mine said Mother on the back and Carley's said Daughter!! We had a great day!! Me and my Valentine!
Carley getting her nails done

Chillin' suckin on our light up love suckers!

Our beautiful designer crowns!!

I loved my V-Day! It was amazing spending it with a perfect Valentine!

Fighting! Amazing!

2009-02-17T14:27:00.000-08:00

So those of you who know me well might not really know me well. One of the things on my bucket list is to be ringside at a boxing match in Vegas. Well it wasnt quite Vegas, but Price turned out to be pretty cool. I went with a friend to the Ultimate Fighting Championship in beautiful Price, Utah!! Let me tell you the locals were out that night!!! It was a great night. I have watched a little of the MMA (Mixed Marshal Art) and think its pretty cool. But its nothing like being there. I wanna be a fighter when I grow up!!! Too cool to even explain!

This guy had an awsome home made cape!! It had sparkles but not quite enough bling for me!!

Shekhinah

2009-02-08T08:28:00.000-08:00

I had the chance to go snowshoeing with some of my friends. It was amazing. We went up to donut falls in Big Cottonwood Canyon. It was spectacular. The word shekhinah is a hebrew word for God's glory or knowing Gods presence is around. All I could think about while hiking through was Shekhinah. I was totally in awe of the scenery. It was so peaceful, but also an amazing workout!!! Julie and I kept saying why be in a stinky gym on a treadmill when you can be out doors like this. I have caught the snowshoeing bug and cant wait to buy my own snowshoes!!

Me next on a cute little bridge!

Julie and me doing what we do best, posing!

More fun posing!

And who couldn't go up a mountian without gloss?

Once we got to the falls (The falls were covered with snow so we couldnt see them) We had lunch. It was a great day! I

I think that life would just plain old SUCK without friends to be with . Julie, Tiffany, and Mindy thanks for letting my tag along!!

Random pics of the last few months

2009-01-28T18:40:00.001-08:00

Carley Learning to ski

This is me pointing my name out at the St George Marathon. Yes I did run and yes I did finish!

Me sporting my new do! Its been a long time since Ive had short hair

Carley just after a great meal at In and Out Burger in Las Vegas!

Carley at Park City after learning how to ski! She is great!

Life Changes

2009-01-28T18:32:00.000-08:00

Wow its been forever since I last updated and so much has changed. Justin and I have seperated and are getting divorced. It was supposed to be final at the first of the year, but our lawyer/mediator has been taking a long time reviewing docs, so we are still technically married. But it should be soon! Carely and I moved to Lindon in October. We moved into my Grandma's old house. I still work for JetBlue and also the government. Last weekend we went to San Antonio with my friend and had a great time. Carley had a blast. We ate amazing texmex and shopped till we dropped!! I want to go back soon without kids!! My new years resolution is to keep this blog updated, So stay tuned!!!

Carley and Kevin falling asleep while I shopped!

What happens in Vegas

2008-07-09T08:33:00.000-07:00

Carley was in Virginia and needed to come home. Jetblue doe not fly straight from Virginia to Utah and since she is only 7 and cant travel by herself on connecting flights (and I wouldnt want her to), I met her in Las Vegas. Justins sister Melissa lives in Vegas and has twin babies that we havent seen since they were a couple weeks old. She said that we could stay with her. Carley's flight got in 1045pm and then we waited for Kyle to pick us up. (Thanks to the stupid car rental place that had my reservation, but couldnt pull it up.) Kyle got off work at midnight and then had to do a little bit of paper work long story short, he got us at 1am and then we went to In and Out burger for dinner!!! Carley was wide awake and loving all the lights. The next day we were supposed to fly home, but the flight was full so we weren't able to get on. But it turned out to be a fun day. We shopped for quite a while, then went to dinner and then Carley and I hit the Vegas stip like no other Mom and 7 year old has!! Carley in front of Excalibur , she called it the Disney castle
Of course you have to see Elvis when you go to Vegas!
New york, New york!
Carley loved the dancing waters!!
She really wanted to see the pirate show. We walked all the way from Excalibur to the M&M store and then to Balliago and then to Treasure Island. Quite a walk anyone let alone a 7 year old at 1030pm!!! We caught a cab from Treasure Island to Excalibur and not 15 seconds after we sat down Carley was fast asleep!

Vegas Rocks!!!

Yellowstone

2008-07-08T07:56:00.000-07:00

Justins parents came to Utah for a few days and we went to Yellowstone with them. Here are a few pic of the trip. This is in Jackson, Carley is quite the model and loved posing for the camera
Carley and Justin looking at Yellowstone Lake.
Carley at old faithful.
Justins bed!! Shane and Jamie's Bed!
Carley morphing into a buffalo! She really liked seeing all of the wild animals.

Canoodleing Elk

This is one of the bears we saw in the wild. It was pretty cool. There were so many people that were getting close to the bear and he was walking right toward us. I was a lot afraid it would charge us. I wasnt way close my camera has a good zoom!

On our way home we stopped at bear world. It was quite the experience. If you have never been I highly suggest it. I got to drive the mini van we rented through the park and the bears are just walking all over right in front of you. If you stop or they smell food then they will try to get into your car, needless to say the windows were rolled up and I drove as quickly as possible!They also have a petting zoo. This doe had babies a week ago. This is the closest Carley will ever get to a real like deer!

There were also a few kiddie rides at bear world. This is a knock off of one that S&S (the company Justin used to work for)made. Its made by a company in Sweden I think. We told Carley that her dad made that ride and she asked him why he put blueberries on it and why didnt he paint it different. Kids minds are awesome arent they!!

I miss Carley

2008-06-25T17:36:00.000-07:00

Its amazing that I have had my daughter for seven years and a few months. Yesterday she left with her grandma Lou to go to Virginia for a week. For some reason I have had the hardest time. I guess its because she is with me most of the time. I am the one who gets her ready for school, takes her to school, picks her up from school, and spends most of my time with her. I love her to be with me. She is my friend, shopping buddy, tv watching buddy, exercise buddy, and food buddy. I feel kind of lost without her. I know I should be excited to have some alone time with Justin, and I am, but it just doesnt feel right. I keep thinking of all the fun things that we can do together when she gets home. I am sure she is having a great time in Blacksburg, but for now I will just be alone and kind of sad!

Its about time

2008-06-24T10:34:00.000-07:00

I have been procrastinating, here are some random pics of the last few weeks. Carley is doing magic for our neighbors, its pretty funny to see how she does it. She sometimes needs a little help from Dad.
Bailee playing the wii
Carley had a sleepover with Morgan and Bailee. They woke up in the morning and played the wii. It was pretty funny. Carley and Morgan really liked it. Bailee just laid there and played, she did pretty good.
Fathers Day 2008 We had a BBQ at my Mom and Dads house. We bought my Dad a new BBQ Grill it is really nice. It was a nice day and wonderful afternoon. I had a bad toothache and forget medicine so Mom gave me some of hers. It was not just a wonderful afternoon, it was a GREAT DAY. God Bless oxycontin!!!
Here are all the Fathers in our family. They are quite the bunch of characters. After this they played poker and made the family room smell like real men!!

Carley's Dance recital

2008-06-07T19:09:00.000-07:00

Carley had a dance recital. She did an amazing job. Me being the great Mom that I am forgot the video camera and the camera, so I took this video with my cell phone which only takes 20 seconds of video at a time. She is an amazing dancer. I am excited that she likes to dance.

Here goes nothing

2008-06-06T09:41:00.000-07:00

So after all of my friends begging me and telling me that I need a blog, I have given in. So I will try my best to keep everyone up to date about our daily life. I thought since I just got back from Ireland I will post some of the pics. I had an amazing time, even though the engine plane I was on decided to quit working over the Atlantic ocean and then again the next day in Colorado, after and emergency night in Montreal.

This is Blarney Castle and me kissing the Blarney stone. It was 10 stories high. It was really fun.