Dustin. Matasha. Jaiya

Stop and smell the roses.

2012-01-14T13:50:00.000-08:00

This post is dedicated solely to venting. You all should know by now, that this happens at LEAST every 6 months or so... I have had so much on my mind, and hopefully writing it down will help me clear my thoughts a little. And ADVICE is always NEEDED.

An {optimistic} person is what I once would have used to describe myself. But as of late, not so much. I feel like I am always down on myself, and pretty much ASKING for the worst with this horrible attitude. I've been trying to stop the negative thoughts, but it's like it has totally taken me over. I would say this mostly applies to school, and all that goes with it. If I take a test, I say I probably failed. If I apply for a program, I say I probably can't do it. If I have homework, I say I can't get it all done. Seriously. I'm nuts. Most likely this is insecurity. School has never came easy to me, and I would say it's the 1 place I lack total confidence in myself.Especially now that I have applied and been accepted in to the Ultrasound program through Weber. I am excited, but the 23% pass rate freaks me out just a little. Thank goodness for Dustin. As cliche as it is, he's my rock. He not only tells me I can do things, but he has reasons to back it up. Like, instances in the past where I may have done great on a test, and he brings it up to give me confidence on the current one. Truly, I probably would have assumed I wasn't good/smart enough for this field and given up if it weren't for him. Him, and Jaiya. I WANT to prove myself to me, to Dustin, but mostly to Jaiya. I know she doesn't understand now, but I want her to place school high on her priorities and reach for her dreams.

I have read books, watched shows, looked at the Internet, and so on for things that would help with my anxiety/stress/negativity. So, I now UNDERSTAND my weirdo mind, but need to get a grip on it. Yesterday, on Dr.Phil, (ha ha, laugh it up) Dr. Phil told a girl who was accusing a website of ruining her life, that her catastrophic words to herself was what was ruining her life, not the actual circumstance. He was basically saying that when you say catastrophic things about something, you will react catastrophically about it, and therefore, the instance does become a catastrophe. Wow, that hit like a ton of bricks. That's totally what I am doing. With boards coming up on a couple months, and being worried about finding a job, I have said some pretty catastrophic things to myself. Therefore, when something does happen, I go off the deep end. Blah blah blah, I know.

Does anyone else feel overwhelmed and in over their head sometimes? Or am I the only one? I guess going out of your comfort zone is scary, but...my new goal is to say positive things to myself instead of the worst things that I can possibly think of. If I look at the whole picture, I have done very well in the Radiology program. I have made the Honor's list (Dean's list), done great in my classes, learned a lot, LOVE my clinical site and everyone I work with, So...Matasha, chill out...life is not that hard...be positive, and take a minute to stop and smell the roses...

Sweet Baby Reegan.

2012-01-08T17:18:00.000-08:00

DECEMEBER 29.
One of my very best friends, April, and her husband welcomed their first baby into the world last week. We are so happy for them, and we know they are going to be amazing parents. Jaiya had so much fun visiting baby Reegan, and in all honesty, it was the 1st time that I even have felt a tiny bit like I wanted another one...too bad school has to come first for another 2 years.

Congrats to my long time friend. I love you so much, and I am so excited for the years to come with our baby girls!

Birthday #25.

2012-01-04T20:16:00.000-08:00

As always, thanks to my WONDERFUL family & friends, my birthday was once again, a wonderful day. I am so blessed to have people in my life that sincerely care about me. I don't know what I would do if I didn't have all of the support and love they have all given me, especially this past year.

Every year, my sweet mom and I go to Orem for some shopping & movie. I always look forward to it because we always seem to giggle the entire time, and shop til our poor feet just can't take anymore. (that's where the movie comes in) Our bodies enjoy the nice break of sitting in a movie theater after such a long day. This year we went to "New Year's Eve." Despite negative reviews from critics and from some people I have talked to, I personally enjoyed it. It was a cute chick flick.

The next day Dustin played in the annual Alumni basketball tournament. We always have so much fun catching up with those that are able to make it. I know it's something Dustin looks forward to. He lives, eats & breathes basketball...;) They play in teams of graduation years, and there are people ranging from high school to those who are now in their 50's. I love it. They all take it SO seriously and their competitiveness is as high as it was in their teens!!!

Jaiya was able to meet her cousin Beckahm. They were so cute together. Too bad Jaiya was getting sick. She was a little cranky those couple of days!;(

On my actual birthday, Dustin, Jaiya and I went to El Mexicano for lunch. We were sitting at our table eating, and I heard the "Happy Birthday" song coming my way...Mom & Krista showed up with this ADORABLE cake that Krista made me. She knows how I adore fondant, and could eat it til I'm sick, so she wanted to surprise me with my very own cake. Sweetest thing ever. She is so thoughtful. And notice there is a shoe on top...she knows me well!

I also got a picture of the Savior that I have been wanting for the longest time from my Mom and Jerry. I was so surprised and I am SO happy I finally have it!

That night, mom and Jer took us to South China to eat. I love that place. Best salads and sushi...Mmmm.

After dinner at South China, we went to see MI4. It was really good. I love action movies!!!

Thank you to everyone that took the time to wish me a Happy Birthday. I was so surprised that so many people remembered!

A warm welcome to 2012.

2012-01-04T18:44:00.000-08:00

Wow. 2011 was FULL of great memories and unforgettable experiences. I cannot believe how quickly it came and went. I am excited & very nervous for what this new year has to offer, and I hope it's a a great year for all of you.

We celebrated the new year with friends eating at South China restaurant, and playing the funniest game ever before watching the ball drop & enjoying that NYE kiss! ;)

Abbie/Zak

Bree'l/Josh

Kyle/Jeanessa

Whit/Cari

Quelf. This is a great game full of hilarious things you have to DO & SAY! Loved it!

And, of course, our "New Year's kiss"....

Wishing you all a happy, safe, healthy & prosperous new year...

Diamond's...

2011-12-28T22:39:00.001-08:00

Are a girls best friend!

When Dustin and I were picking out my wedding ring, I wasn't very fond of adding a band with it. Well, that didn't last long. About a year later, I changed my mind, and decided I DO want a band. Dust told me that maybe I could get one for our 5 year Anniversary. I agreed to that idea...

Well, in March it will be 5 years, and I got my gift a little early...(Christmas/5 year Anniversary!)

After taking a very dreaded test, and studying/stressing myself to near death, Dustin wanted to cheer me up...I came home from Salt Lake, and he told me he had a suprise for our Anniversary..."Our Anniversary? It's not til March! We haven't even had Christmas yet!" (Dustin is HORRIBLE with suprises;) After debating the rest of the day whether or not he should tell me, thinking he probably couldn't get my wedding ring to Shane Co. without me knowing so he could find a band himself, he decided to tell me. He went and got the laptop, pulled up Anniversary bands on Shaneco.com, covered my eyes, and when I opened them...

Boy was I suprised!

I honestly didn't even think he remembered that he had told me that nearly 4 years ago!

So, when we went up to visit Lily and Rolf at their condo (on the 23rd), we made a stop at the Shane Co. on the way, and I picked out a band! Not thinking I would get it that day, Dustin told them we would take it, and they had it ready the following Tuesday! (yesterday) I LOVE IT.

Thanks babe.

I truly am married to the best husband ever!
Xo.

We wish you a Merry Christmas....

2011-12-28T21:08:00.000-08:00

Looks like Santa came...

Daddy had to work Christmas Eve and Christmas day, so we had to make the most of what little time we had with him in between! Jaiya and I ate breakfast and picked up the house a little bit, and then we finally woke dad up (ALOT earlier than we usually do) around 10a.m. We were so excited to see what Santa had brought Jaiya!

I had to snap a pic of Jaiya right when she woke up...Look at that hair!

Whoa! Jaiya must have been REALLY good this year! She got so many presents for Christmas and her Birthday, her room is over-flowing with toys! It was so cute, every present she opened she would take a deep breath in, and say "Ooooh...."!!! ha ha

Grandma and Papa came to watch her open her gifts!

Playing at Grandma Bernitta's!!!

Merry Christmas!

It's the MOST wonderful time of the year....

2011-12-28T20:13:00.000-08:00

Mecham Family Christmas Party 2011

Poor Jaiya was SO sick. I had woke her up from a nap just before leaving for the party, and she had a fever of a 102! By that night it was up to 104:( Needless to say, she struggled a little bit to stay happy during the party, so we left a little bit early.

It makes me feel bad to sit her on Santa's lap when she is this mortified of him:(

Christmas Eve with Grandma and Papa Johnson

Every year, the Johnson side of our family gets together on Christmas Eve to exchange gifts. It's became a fun tradition. I know when I was little I would have given ANYTHING to open a present on Christmas Eve!;)

Jaiya LOVES Papa!

Grandma Candi opening her gifts;)

Jaiya LOVED her presents!
Her new pony

Opening presents is exhausting...she fell fast asleep on Aunt Chas!

Christmas Eve Party at Grandma and Papa Mason's

Jaiya's Santa pictures all look the same! She isn't his biggest fan...:( ha ha
Getting her books from Grandma and Papa!

Our Little "Tweet-heart" turned 1...

2011-12-27T21:02:00.000-08:00

On December 1.

This past year has been the best year of our lives.

We have been blessed with a beautiful, healthy, happy, friendly, & loving little girl.

I cannot even begin to tell you what a blessing she has been to both Dustin and I.

We love you Jijjy-Bug;)

Because of Dustin's work schedule, we celebrated her Birthday with a few friends and LOTS of family on December 2(contrary to what the invite says). She has SO many people in her life that love her so much, and she was SPOILED rotten with gifts! We have absolutely NO room for all of her toys, and she is only 1...;)

Tiffany Jackson made her adorable cake, and daddy drew that picture of her...

She must not like to get her hands dirty. That, or she was just being stubborn. She wouldn't dig into her cake during her cake smash pictures, or her Birthday party...

Not having it...

Jaiya Facts:

She weighs 23lbs.

She is 90th percentile in weight.

And 75th in height.

She repeats anything you ask her to...she can talk SO good.

She loves to go for rides and will tell me, "Mama, bye bye." She always needs to be on the go.

She loves to rip up our phone book.

She loves "Cacks." (Crackers)

She loves to give hugs and pat your back.

She LOVES the bath.

She can make a mess in two seconds flat...such a busy lil' girl!

She has 6 teeth.

She started calling me "Tash." I don't know where it came from, but I came home one day and she said, "Hi, Tash!"

She started walking!!!!!!!!!!! (although she could take a step, she started taking like 7 or more steps on the 5th or 6th of December, while Dustin and I were at the NFR)

I cannot believe the 1st year went by so quickly...but what an amazing time we have had...;)

(Invite & 1 year pics by Krista Schaugaard)

Christmas With the Grossenbacher's

2011-12-18T17:50:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Christmas with Lily & Rolf @ the end of November. They spend the holidays at their condo in Salt Lake so we celebrate extra early. They always spoil us rotten...of course. And notice the cute "shoe ring holders" that they got me. They know I LOVE shoes...;)

Lily got the giggles...;)

Jaiya got a turtle for Christmas!!!

Happy Holidays EVERYONE! Xo

Jaiya, Meet Santa...

2011-12-12T18:29:00.000-08:00

We (Daddy, Mommy & of course Grandma) took Jaiya to meet Santa at JJWD a couple of weeks ago, and let's just say...They aren't the best of friends...yet!

She didn't know what to think of him, as soon as she laid eyes on him she started clinging to my shirt.

Poor thing! Look how excited she was at Grandma's before...

All of these "new" experiences are so much fun...whether they go well or not;)

Family Pictures.

2011-12-08T18:57:00.001-08:00

I know we got family pics not too long ago, but I decided since we were getting Jaiya's 1 year pictures we would do some more family ones for Christmas cards! Here are a few of my favorites:

Thanks Krista!
Picture This! Photography By Krista Schaugaard.

Thanksgiving.

2011-12-08T17:07:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is one of my FAVORITE holidays. I love spending time with family..and eating of course. This year we spent Thanksgiving at my mom and Jerry's house. Dinner was wonderful & so was the company. We couldn't ask for a better family;)

Preparing dinner.

LOVED my mom's turkey veggie tray...isn't it cute!?

My mom always does the cutest things!

Me & Cory

Every year, my dad comes to my Grandma Linda's for Thanksgiving. So, we always take the time to go out and visit, and catch up on as much as possible.

Dad opening his birthday present!

Shandee's birthday was on Thanksgiving, so they celebrated at Grandma and Pappa Johnson's! What a cute little princess!;)

The Holiday's are the BEST time of year;)

1st Haircut

2011-11-08T19:33:00.001-08:00

11.6.11

Our beautiful baby girl is experiencing many firsts, and it's all happening so quickly! It's been amazing sharing all of these special moments with her, and we are so lucky to have such a beautiful, happy, and healthy little girl!

She was such a trooper while having her hair cut by Grandma Mill on Sunday! Although, she wasn't quite sure what was going on so she kept trying to watch the scissors as grandma was trying to cut her hair! Grandma ended up cutting about an inch, and it turned out perfect. As you can see in the "before" picture, it was getting a little straggley on top!
Before-

She looked so big and grown up in her cape.

After-

And, of course, we have it saved in a little bag so we can remember it forever!

Xo.

11 Months

2011-11-08T19:12:00.000-08:00

Oh my...seriously? 11 months? Why does it go by so quick? I actually don't mind that she is growing because I have loved every minute of watching our sweet baby learn and grow, but I worry that because it goes so quickly, I won't take it all in and enjoy every little moment...but, I'm trying.

Jaiya is changing so much. Her little personality is shining through more than ever, and her little temper tantrums are nothing less than expected for being a little girl!

Here are some new updates @ 11 months:

She blows kisses...

She walks around saying "Mmm-wah" (kisses)

She says "Hush"

She can say "Shhhhhh" while holder her finger to her lips

She is STILL in size 3 diapers

She had her first haircut

She wants to eat ANYTHING & EVERYTHING you eat...

She loves sips of Mommy's Dt.D.P.

After 2 nights of letting her cry, she goes right to bed without fussing...or she plays in her crib til she is ready to sleep

She still loves Dora and other cartoons!

She, according to our scale, weighs 23 lbs!

She has her little moments of being Hyper and bounces and hops all over the floor while giggling! It's absolutely adorable!

She has been on Whole Milk for about 2 months, so far so good!

She gets shy around BIG groups of people she doesn't know...so UNLIKE her Momma!

She loves Kezi. Kezi isn't so sure about Jaiya still, but..she's coming along.

She HAS to destroy the same kitchen drawer every single day...the one full of tape, phonebooks, and other junk.

Such a big girl..she can walk with her walker toy!

Our "Spook-tacular" Halloween;)

2011-11-08T17:40:00.000-08:00

Jaiya's 1st Halloween was perfect. She was the most adorable/tired "Witch" I have ever seen. As soon as I got off work, we got Jaiya dressed up, and started making the rounds. And by rounds, I mean visiting EVERYONE we could within a few hours....before bedtime that is. Mom and Jer have made it tradition to have dinner at their house on Halloween night...it is always so nice to see everyone that can make it...Otherwise, there are just too many places to go in 1 night, and we wouldn't be able to see all the kids' "Spooky" and "Adorable" costumes!Mom let me wear her "Devil" costume for a few pics;)

What a cute smile;)

Riding her broomstick...hee hee hee heeeeeee

Mmmmwah!

Our little "Witches"....Kassie wasn't too sure about the pictures...;)

Two scared lil' "Jailbirds!"

Chase and Brant! Love Brant's scary face...

Jaiya and Aunt Chas!
With Grandma Stewie! Jaiya was SO scared because Brant and Chase were standing in front of her... Jaiya & Wyatt eating some candy!

We made a quick stop by Grandma and Grandpa Grossenbacher's. We wish we could have made it to ALL of our grandparents...:(
All in all, Jaiya's 1st Halloween was an absolute success. Although EXTREMELY tired, she was such a trooper. I can't believe Halloween has already come and gone, but so excited for the Holiday's, and Jaiya's BIG 1ST BIRTHDAY. Only 1 month away! (not sure how I feel about that...)

It's Never a Dull Moment.

2011-10-23T18:31:00.000-07:00

Girls weekend comes once a year. Every October. And it has become one of my favorite traditions!

I get so excited to spend time with the girls. Shopping. Giggling. Laughing. Eating. Movies. Tuacahn. Orange Peel. and SO much more.

This year we went to Tuacahn's production of the Little Mermaid, and Grease!

Coincidentally, both were HUGE childhood memories.

Kayla, my big sis, and I used to share a room (and a bed) growing up. Almost every night she would sing The Little Mermaid to me...something I'll never ever forget.

And Grease. Well that was just a family fave. I can't even count how many times we watched that movie. Classic.

1st Day

On the way down we stopped in Cedar to eat @ The Pizza Factory. Mmmm

We went shopping first thing. Even before checking in to our hotel...of course.

Kayla and I trying desperately to find my dad in this store...ha ha.
And the annual "Favorite Things" exchange.
Look how excited they are;)

Ooh me too!

Kayla opened her Birthday surprise...(Her B-Day was the following Monday so we celebrated)

Hee hee.

Now. I'm gonna attempt to explain this. But, it may sound extremely odd. Just a fair warning.

So...Once upon a time I started calling Kayla "Bushwacker"...I dunno why...I just give everyone nicknames and usually they are different every time. But, this one stuck. Unfortunately for her. Then, I shortened it to "Bush". Yes, "Bush". Sounds a little vulgar this day and age, but it has been the source of many great laughs. Anyway, Mom decided to make some T-shirts, after all she is the big 3-0, that said something about "Bush" on them. When she asked what I wanted mine to say..I said "Celebrate the Bush." Mom's said "Happy Birthday to our Bush-Wacker" and Kayla's said "Kiss me, I'm Dirty 30!" As you can see below, there is a pic of Kayla with a bush...ha ha. Priceless.

Arriving @ Tuacahn for "The Little Mermaid."

Yes, I have braces.

2nd Day

How appropriate is this considering we went to see Little Mermaid?! Seriously! I have my very own "dinglehopper!"

Sportin' the T's at our favorite spot- ORANGE PEEL!;)
No pics of Grease or of our trip to the movie Footloose, but we did manage to end the night with a 3 hour stay in the ER! Poor Kayla had bruises that kept forming up her arms that were swollen, and hard. We were worried so we thought we would be safe and take her in. Good news: all emergent tests came back negative!Last Day

Oh, and just because we had a few inches here and there to spare in the Enclave, we thought we would fill up and do some more shopping.

We may need an intervention...

We love movies. So we stopped on the way home to see "The Help." Highly recommend, but it's a tear jerker! Even for me.

Kayla gets 1 piece...

I get a handful.

And Ma get's the bucket...;)

Aww...what a perfect trip. There are many things in life I could live without...but these 2 I could not. I may be vulgar and inappropriate at times (pics not blog worthy!), but I love that I can comfortably be ME when I'm with them. XO

Family.Love.Happiness

2011-10-05T16:27:00.000-07:00

I love every moment spent with these two.

They are what makes life so great...

09.01.11

Jaiya @ 9 Months.

Thanks to Picture This! Photography by Krista Schuaggard.

Jaiya- 10 Months

2011-10-02T08:12:00.001-07:00

Our little one is now 10 months and busier than ever.

Jaiya's Fun Facts:

-She LOVES Dora & Boots. She has a cute nightgown with Dora on it so when ever you ask her where Dora is she pats her belly...she will also say "Do-wa" and "oots."

- She is on whole milk, and loves to eat whatever we are eating.

- She is still in size 3 diapers.

-She crawls all over the place and is pulling herself up.

- She is getting her 5th tooth.

- She says, "Mamma" (I put that first to make me feel better cause she only says it when she's sad), "Dada", "Pappa", "Bye Bye", "Hi", "Hi Dad", and "DO-Wa" & "oots."

-If I tell her no she says " ya ya!"

-She has a favorite drawer in the kitchen...the one that USED to be full of scissors, tape, and pens & pencils. Now it is minus the scissors, and she doesn't get to stay there long enough to do any damage.

- She STILL loves her bath time.

- She loves T.V, but it doesn't keep her occupied near as long as it used to. She is just too busy now.

- She loves to dump Kezi's water bowl all over the kitchen.
- She loves to give kisses.

-Lately she has been a Mamma and Daddy's girl.

- She chews on the side of her crib before we come and get her in the mornings.

- She isn't as easy to put to bed. She wants Mom or Dad in there til she falls asleep. Hopefully this doesn't last too long. She is like a little psychic and once we step away from the crib she belts out this HUGE scream and starts crying...It's so sad, but cute enough I'll do whatever she wants...;)

-She is the BEST cuddler...I love it.

-She jabbers while she is playing...it's the cutest thing ever.

Jaiya helping Daddy with dishes.Aunt Sharon, Dustin's mom's sister, came from New Mexico to visit this past week. Grandma Mae has been sick and in ICU at Utah Valley so she came to spend time with the fam, and visit Grandma. It's been a hard week on everyone, but it was so nice to see Sharon.
At our "Taco Party" as Shandee called it. Sisters;)
The kids playing;)
The girls

{xoxo}

Queen for a Day

2011-09-18T18:53:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, we were able to go out for some yummy chinese food, and spend the afternoon with our Swiss grandparents Lily & Rolf.

{Lilly and Rolf have been a HUGE part of my life since I was 12-ish, maybe even earlier...They are from Switzerland and moved to the states about 20-25 years ago. Lilly used to swim laps early in the morning at the Salina swimming pool where my mom was a life-gaurd, and we became very close with her and her Rolf. We have had several BBQ's at their house, great conversations, and some fun trips together! I absolutely adore these two people. They are the most generous, loving, and kind people you will ever meet. Everytime I, (or anyone else) visit Lily and Rolf, I leave with a bag full of Swiss chocolates, and any other treasure they happened to find one of us...it's so sweet of them to ALWAYS think of us. We refer to them as grandma Lily and grandpa Rolf, and they claim us as family as well! I have many memories with them, and I am so happy that Jaiya and Dustin are able to spend time with them too! I am so greatful to have such great examples in my life!}

Rolf and I

and Lilly

Mom with Rolf and Lilly

After lunch, Dustin and I were going to go find Jaiya some earrings because the ones she had at the time were kinda turning a yellow-ish foggy color due to their "cheap-ness!" I literally spent like $5 on a pack of 4 pairs...so they weren't the best quality. Lilly asked if she could get Jaiya some that could be from her....I wasn't too keen on the idea considering they already do SO much for us, but she is IMPOSSIBLE to persuade or convince otherwise! So we went to Wal Mart, an idea her and Rolf weren't fond of from the start, and we even looked in the cases at the nicer jewelry...her and Rolf decided they were all too cheap and not good for her delicate little ears, so we headed down the street to the Diamond Store...ahhh! I walked in and asked for the sterling silver jewelry and they REFUSED to look at it...at least 24 kt. gold is the only thing we should buy...EVER! Nothing cheap because "it's not so good..." I had to leave the room...Rolf was forcing me to look at diamond earrings and I was NOT letting that happen! And by force I mean holding my back down to the jewelry case so I would HAVE to look. I have NEVER spent that much money in 1 place, EVER! That's not ideal for a 9 month old baby...at least I don't think so! Everytime I looked at a pair I had to ask how much they were and the knot in my stomach just kept getting bigger and bigger. I tried so hard to nicely get mad at them and say this was NOT happening, but all that came of it was them telling the clerk not to tell me the price because it didn't matter...Ummm, in what world does price not matter? Not mine!!! Needless to say, after about an hour of deciding, they settled on a beautiful set of 1/4 kt. diamond earrings...

Arent they gorgeous?!

Jaiya & her pretty diamonds, while playing at Grandma and Grandpa Grossenbacher's! Too bad she had to cut her eye open this morning...:( Poor thing! Her first REAL boo boo!

I still cannot believe it...the only diamonds I ever have owned are now on my left ring finger...which I didn't recieve til I was 20 years old...

Jaiya is definitely loved by many...;)

Cousin to Cousin We'll Always be, Special Friends from the Same Family Tree

2011-09-07T22:20:00.000-07:00

Lily & Jaiya
11 months/ 9 months

Hmmmm....which one's Jaiya...??? ha ha. Look at the difference in their thighs! Look like Jaiya has Lily by a few pounds eh?!

Cuddling with Uncle Cole

Grandma & Lily

Bry showing us her modelling skills...

Love my Bry Bry

Thanks for the visit guys~ We love you!

Johnson Family Outing

2011-09-07T21:25:00.000-07:00

A couple weekends ago, we went to Gunnison Resevoir with Dustin's parents, his sister and her two boys. We were so excited to test out our new tube, and I can tell you, it didn't disappoint...it was so fun! We got a almost a full day of fun in before the dark clouds (refer to pics) started rolling in...

Mike & Candi So glad that Chas is okay, and doesn't have any broken bones or missing limbs after riding with Dustin...Props to you Chas! I wouldn't have rode with him...
This is a perfect tube for a BIG, FAT scaredy cat like myself...it's impossible to tip over!
Brant Chase

Father/Son bonding moment, I couldn't resist...

WOW! It went from beautiful sunshine to....this!

Happy Birthday Trexton!

2011-09-07T20:41:00.000-07:00

Trexton turned 1!!!

The kids put all the balls in with Jaiya...I don't think she knew what to think! ha ha

It was so fun taking Jaiya to her first Birthday party! She had a blast. She spent most of the 2 hours she was there in the pool, she LOVES the water!

Thanks for the invite Trexton! We love you!

Oh for the love....

2011-08-26T19:59:00.000-07:00

of Decorating.

I think I need to simmer down a little on the re-doing...It seems to be monthly at this point, and I can see it in Dustin's eyes that he is about ready to put me on a strict NO NEW IDEAS diet! But, I think he is extremely happy with the outcome of our new kitchen.

Just a little explanation for my need to feed my addiction:

Rest of the house=warm colors

Kitchen=cold colors

idea:

kitchen - needs warm colors to match the rest of the house.

Comprende?

No exaggeration, I went through about 200 shades of blue before I decided on this one! This pic makes it look a little more on the blue/blue side, and it's actually like a dusty turquoise/blue. Therefore, it blends with my turquoise in my living room.

Notice my new table? I LOVE it. This pic only shows 5 chairs cause #6 is on it's way.
Chair #6 that's on it's way looks like this one... I about died over the legs...I am a sucker for detail like this!

before.

After.

Fell in love with this...I HAD to have it! (of course)

And here's a pic of the entry-way. It used to be tan but I painted it a yellow-ish mustard color to set it apart from the living room...
I also painted 1 wall brown in my living room...I wanted the entertainment center to POP!

And I dry-brushed my brown mirror with some turquoise to give it more of the rustic look I like!

Now you see I have an addiction...I need to slow down a little...so hopefully school keeps me busy (or better yet, entertained) long enough to take a break from decorating.

P.S. Jaiya is now crawling...just a few little steps then she plops on her belly & she got her first front tooth on the top right!

8 Months

2011-08-16T19:26:00.001-07:00

Boy, 8 months has come fast! I can't believe my baby is getting big so quick, but every new step is so much fun. I love watching her grow and learn new things.

Jaiya Facts:

24 1/2 in. long

21 lbs.

12 months clothes

size 2 shoe

Jaiya says, " Dada" (1st word), "Mamma", "Hi", "Ba ba", and "Pa pa"!

She scoots on her bum across the floor to play with the DVD player/XBOX!

She wakes us up by yelling, "DA DA..DA DA...DA DA..." It's so cute!

She can stay up on all fours, but doesn't crawl just yet...scooting must be cutting it for now!

She loves her cartoons! They could entertain her for hours!

She has 2 bottom teeth!

Gives kisses.

Eats ice out of our mouths. It's hilarious.

Pinches your face. Fingernails or not it HURTS!

Bounces on her bum til she almost stands up! ha ha. Sometimes it's a little too hard and she lands on her face:(

Goes right to bed when we put her in her crib.

We love our little Jijjy-bug!

Part 2

2011-08-10T20:58:00.000-07:00

Picnic at the Park.

I love this picture of everyone. It was such a fun day, and much needed time altogether. Love my family...
VEGAS.

(I love how this picture turned out!)

Picture made out of flowers!

Le Reve at the WYNN! A-MAZING! The best show I have been to in Vegas!

Our inner strippers came out while walking the strip after the show...;)

YIPEEEEEE!!!!

Poor Whit! ha ha. Cari had sore feet from her high heels so he was such a gentlemen and carried her back!;)

Comedy show at the Riviera.

Our 5 star Hotel on the strip........the Vdara!

The view...

See you again in October Vegas!....;) Counting down the days!

Breath of Fresh Air

2011-07-29T18:09:00.000-07:00

I am currently enjoying my last few days of......freedom....as I have decided to call it. I have been having a much needed break from school. The clinical part, I love, but the school part...well, it gets to be a little too much sometimes. Sometimes I struggle with the motivation part of school, I just have no desire...period. I want to, but I don't. I can admit that. I would much rather spend my time with Jaiya and Dustin and do things around the house. But, as I said before, I LOVE the clinical part so that I wouldn't want to give up. So, July became a month to rejuvinate and get myself ready to begin school again in August. This consisted of vacations, working in the yard, boating, reading, and some organization. I will get to the FUN we have been having with some pictures in a little bit, but the organization part is VERY important. As I mentioned earlier, I have struggled with wanting to get my homework done, and really finding any desire in me to do so. I absolutely couldn't have cared less. This is when I realized I needed some uplifting and a nice break to clear my head.
Life, even though it's great, can overwhelm us. I decided to read the book, The Everygirl's Guide to Life, by Maria Menunous. It was exactly what I needed. The key to happiness starts with organization. We need our homes, our lives, and our relationships in order to be able to succeed. So this I did (and am doing). I organized my house one room at a time, and decluttered everything. This was more than just things I didn't need. It was the unneccessary furniture and decor, and the unneccessary items that I just don't use. I have designated a "home" for everything, and make sure that it returns there whenever it isn't being used. I am so much more organized, and therefore, in the long run I work less. The lazier you are the more you work...it's true. I was there at one point. Feeling too overwhelmed and having so much to do that I didn't know where to begin...so I didn't. This only made things worse. I also, as I have done before, decided to look into the relationships in my life that were bringing me down. Vampires, as the book called them. People who suck all of the good energy out of you with all of their negativity. This I am still working on, but I realize that these kinds of people only cause unwanted and not needed stress into our lives. I defnitely suggest this book and this new idea for life if you are looking to simplify and organize, and all in all, be much happier;)

YUBA.
Dustin's dad, bless his heart, finally let us take the boat out. We have been twice and it has been a blast! We love boating.

Mator. As in- Tow-Mator!
A guy in Centerfield fixed up this old truck to look like Mator off of the movie Cars! It is so cute, and unbelievable how much it looks just like the character on the movie! Me, Jaiya, mom, Kim and the boys (and two of their cousins), and Brady and Kayla and their two kids all went to see the movie together. It was so much fun.

(I didn't get a pic of Had:( Next time!)

4th of July Weekend.

AI Concert.

Mr.American Idol himself...Scotty;)

I'll continue with a "Part 2"...this is getting rather long.

A BIG Congrats to...

2011-05-26T17:10:00.000-07:00

Two VERY important people in my life...

My Brother Jace & My Fabulous Friend Tiff

I am so proud of my brother. No words can even describe what an amazing person he is. He a great example, and I couldn't be more lucky to have him in my life.

He is leaving June 4th for his 2nd Tour of Duty.

I'm so proud that my brother is serving our country, and I am forever greatful for the sacrifices he has made to protect our Freedom!

We had a BBQ with all of our family and all of Jace's friends last Saturday before he leaves. It was a great turnout!

Jaiya, Jace, and I

SIBLINGS...

Jaiya's 1st time swinging!

4 Generations

Me, Dad & Kayla

CONGRATS to the new Mr. & Mrs. Broderick!

Wow...what a beautiful wedding! It was held at Wadley Farms in Lindon, and I must say, EXCELLENT choice Tiff! It was beautiful...and so was the bride! She looked amazing. I am so proud of her. She is such a sweet person and she found someone who she loves and who loves her so much!

I LOVE love-birds...so sweet!

And my sweet Jijjy-bug did so good for having such a long day...Her and Daddy spent the day together while I ran around...Dust is always SO much help. He was running on 3 hours of sleep, and I don't know how he did it...but THANKS to him for always being so supportive.

Now, I need to get caught up on homework...so that I can enjoy and celebrate this Memorial Day weekend with our family and friends! Enjoy and be safe everyone!

Mother's Day & Remodelling

2011-05-16T18:01:00.000-07:00

BIG news!
Jaiya said her first word 5-14-11.

"Dada!"

or more like...

"Dadadadadadadada!!!!"

My mom, Kayla & the kiddos, and Jaiya and I went to lunch on Saturday, and I leaned over to JIJ who was squeeling at the leaves while laying on a blanket on the grass, and I said,"Jaiya, say Dada." And, sure enough, she said it...not believing it, I did it again, and like before, she mimicked me! Now she is saying "Dada" all of the time! My goodness, she is growing up so fast!

MOTHER'S DAY

It was my first "official" Mother's Day. (last year, since I was pregnant, Dust gave me a present and a card so I guess that counts too!) Dust worked, so JIJ and I ran to Wal Mart, ate at Arby's and then went to Mom and Jer's til Dustin got home from work. It was a fun day. Not too much going on, so that's always a nice break from every day stress!

Me and My Madre.

Jaiya and I
I am so lucky that I can be her Mom and enjoy every moment with her. She makes life so much sweeter, and adds so much joy in everything we do. I never knew that such a little person could bring so much life and such a sweet spirit in to our lives.

When Dust got home from work, we went to Mom's Cafe for dinner with Mike and Candi! We are so lucky that we live so close to our wonderful Mom's! They do SO much for us! I admire them so much!

Jaiya and Pappa Mike.

Candi, JIJ, & I

I just had to add some pictures that my cousins, Lana & Ashley, and I took of our little ones. Jaiya and Tara were born the same day, and weighed the exact same! And Jax was born just a month earlier! They are gonna have so much fun growing up together.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

to Jer!

He turned 29 on the 9th of May!

Love you Jer! THANK YOU for all you do!

You are such a great person.

Next..

the KITCHEN.

While in AZ for Easter, Dust and I were watching DIY t.v at the hotel. A commercial came on for some DIY countertops (countertop transformation kit). We have been wanting to re-do our countertops for SO long because that's all we had left to do. You can only imagine our excitement when we discovered this kit! The day we got home, we were on the internet picking out colors and we bought it a few days later. It covers 50 sq. ft. so we decided to get the bathroom and kitchen done all at once. It is so simple and so pretty! We did the Java Stone, and I added glitter (of course) to give it a little sparkle. It turned out so good! I am VERY happy with it!

Oh, and...I am always difficult (according to Dust) and since I wanted the dark countertops I "needed" to re-do my cupboards. So..I did them white and antiqued them with a black glaze.

Love the outcome!

BEFORE

DURING

AFTER

April Catch Up.

2011-04-30T20:09:00.000-07:00

Jaiya had another appointment with the doctor for her second set of immunizations. I always hate going in for those, and this time I wasn't prepared or I wouldn't have went alone. I hate holding her when they stab, yes stab, her in the leg for her shots. Poor little JIJ!:( They also took her measurements, and...are you ready for this?!...she is 25 1/2 in long and 17 lbs, which means 95 % in weight and 85% in height...whoa! Tall? Where on earth did that come from...guess she was blessed cause her dad and I sure didn't contribute to her height in any way. She also is rolling over lots more, sitting up so good, and her hand/eye coordination is great! And, can't leave out the fact that she screams and yells daily. It's a big hollar everytime she wants something. She yells AHHHHHH as loud as she can, then...stops...and again...AHHHHH, and then stops. It's cute, but I hope she doesn't keep it up as she gets older! ha Or we are really in for it!

Brylee, Jaiya, and Lily posing for Easter pics at Grandma Mill's!

She LOVES hanging upside down...

and her new bumbo from Aunt Bree!

We were so glad to have lil' Kassie over to play one day. I had to get lots of pictures! She is such a doll, and her personality is the cutest! I love her! Jaiya loved having someone to play with and Kassie was very entertaining for her. She walks all over, and Jaiya just watched every move she made.

Playing her piano...

Now on to Easter...

We spent Easter this year in Arizona. Mom and Jerry had been wanting to visit Canyon de Chelly and we LOVE road trips and site-seeing so it was the perfect getaway!

I have to be honest, I was so excited I had butterflies thinking about taking Jaiya to the pool for the first time and hiking, but...the weather was less than par, to say the least, and we weren't able to swim or hike (with the baby that is). -sigh- But, I shall be optimistic and just be glad that we were able to see the amazing Anasazi ruins at Canyon de Chelly. And amazing is an understatement. I really am facinated by stuff like this. Mom and Jer have taken us to see ruins several times, and I'm finding that I am growing to love it more and more every time.

Our ride down to Page...

Jerry drove.

I read a PEOPLE... (I always sit up front with Jer cause I get so car-sick, we always have great conversations but I thought that I would give him a break from my "20 Questions" for a bit;)

And Dust and Ma sit in the back and watch movies! Lucky!

Dinner in Page, AZ.

Oh I LOVE this pic. They are 2 happy little lovebirds! Awww...

Day 2

Rise and Shine baby girl. (She is always so happy in the morning!)

Lunch in Chinle, AZ.

Daddy gives her water, and...

Mom gives her the good stuff...;)

Relaxin' with Grandma in between stops!

CANYON DE CHELLY.

LOVE my cute family

The guys and JIJ!

See how cool these are?! Amazing.

On the ride home, I attempted the back seat! Dust and I watched a movie...and suprisingly, I survived without throwing up.

Oh, and let's not forget "Bubba." Dust thought he should seatbelt it in!

Well, that's all for tonight. Next I will attempt to catch up on Mother's Day and stuff!

4 months...Really?!

2011-04-01T17:26:00.000-07:00

Here are a few St. Patrick's Day pics that I didn't get a chance to post earlier!... Grandma Mill and J;) And of course, Grandma always brings props... Can you believe it's already been 4 months?! I can't. It's gone by so fast, but you always hear that it will, so I have just tried to take in every little moment that I can!

New news on sweet baby J!:
J is coo-ing more than ever.
She laughs out loud...music to my ears! It is the most precious thing I have ever heard!
She is now 17-ish lbs! WOW!
She starts on cereal today...we did a test trial around lunch time because we were so excited to see what she would do!
She is getting SO good at her hand/eye coordination.
She loves her baby wipe package- it's her favorite toy next to the jungle gym.
And last but not least, we are working on rolling over and sitting up! Not quite there yet, but when it comes to sitting up, that round lil' belly sure comes in handy!;)

This was yesterday...she looked so cute! And here she is today, trying out her new cereal...think she likes it? Hmmmm Guess not! How sad is that face!?

We will try again before bedtime. Hopefully round 2 goes smoother!;) & Happy 4 Month Birthday Baby Girl!!! I love you!

Finally...

2011-03-16T15:55:00.000-07:00

Don't be alarmed that I have posted now 4 times in the past few days...That's pretty darn good for me! But, just in case you're wondering, I should be studying instead....

For about 10 years now (since my freshman year of high school) I have been dealing with many "girly" symptoms that coincide with endometriosis, which I will refrain from enlightening you with.

-Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue

that behaves like the cells lining the uterus (endometrium)

grows in other areas of the body, causing pain, irregular

bleeding, and possible infertility.-

Endometriosis is common on my mom's side of the family, my mom had a terrible case of it, and sadly had a full hysterectomy at 24. Unfortunately, this is what my doc at the time was suspecting I had developed as well. But, because I was so young when all of my symptoms started, my doc had prescribed me with birth control pills to ease the pain. Birth control is usually prescribed before a laparoscopy is performed, it's a cheaper and non-invasive way to treat the symptoms. The birth control worked perfectly for me! But, since J was born, it seems to have gotten a little worse, and I have been having symptoms that I just CAN'T deal with anymore.
Thanks to some great advice from the girlie's at the hospital, I decided to go see an OBGYN that comes to Richfield every 2 weeks from Cedar City. He has been a "life-saver!" I just wanted answers...is that too much to ask? Well, thanks to my new doc, I have some answers. Dustin, Jaiya and I took a trip to Cedar today, cause Doc wanted to preform an ultrasound to make sure it was not fibrous tumors or something else for that matter...and, it is in fact... endometriosis. But luckily for me, it doesn't seem to be severe so birth control would probably help my symptoms again!
I had an IUD put in after the baby was born, but it had inserted into the myometrium (muscle part) of my uterus and about perforated, so...it was removed after only about a week. Although it didn't work out, doc suggested that I try it again. So...that's what I will do...let's just cross our fingers that it works as well as it did before!!!

I received a...

2011-03-15T17:35:00.000-07:00

Thanks Brandi;)

Here are the rules:

1. Thank the person who gave you the award.

2. Share 7 facts about yourself.

3. Award 7 bloggers with the award

7 facts about myself: (oh boy...get ready...)

1. I am a new mommy to little miss Jaiya Ivie. She is the most precious little girl ever. I am amazed by everything she does!

2. I love my DVR. I have a gazillion shows to watch all of the time.

3. I am addicted to Dt. Dr. Pepper, and fill my 52 oz. mug up EVERY day. (sometimes twice a day) but...I probably shouldn't admit that...

4. I bath at least twice a day. 4 times if I am lucky.

5. I LOVE "The Talk." It's my favorite talk show EVER! I laugh my butt off every time I watch it.

6. I yawn with one eye open, the other closed. Dustin calls it "the one-eyed yawn." And I don't think he finds it too attractive...

7. I am DEATHLY afraid of large bodies of water with "creatures" in it! Ugh. Like a deep river, lake, THE OCEAN! Terrifying!!!!

I want to award:

Mom

Kim

Heather

Allayna

Tiff

Nicki

Marg

My next purchase...

2011-03-15T16:22:00.001-07:00

I promise, they grow on you...
I have seen the gold, and I loved them, but I am more of a silver kind of girl, so I think I'll go with the silver.
and...best part... I hear they are SUPER comfy...yes please!
Lucky for me, I am gonna buy from the "youth" section so I get them $20 cheaper;)

4 Years of Bliss

2011-03-13T20:24:00.001-07:00

Since I am the only one awake at 9:25p.m on a Sunday night, I shall blog.

This is our Sunday pic that we sent to daddy at work...we hate when he works on Sundays:(

But before I begin...
Disclaimer about my posts throughout the past 3 years: I just noticed that I am always saying "we" when I blog instead of "I"...as if anyone else is blogging with me...duh! I guess I was thinking of how it is my "family blog" but, it is in fact "my blog" about my family, and our wonderful adventure called "life".

This past Thursday, the 10th, Dustin and I celebrated 4 years of marriage. It is crazy to think of how far we have come since we got married: lots of travelling, a home, a baptism, school, new job, and a beautiful baby girl who we both adore. I can truly say that because I am married to Dustin, I am a better person. He has helped shape who I am as a friend, wife, and mother, and I am eternally grateful for that. I can't even describe how amazing it is to watch Dustin as a daddy. He is exactly the type of dad I would want for my kids. He loves Jaiya more than anything, and seeing how much he loves and cares for her just increases my love for him more and more every day. I see lots more fun times, babies (not in the near future), and memories headed our way...

To celebrate our Anni, Dustin, Jaiya and I just spent time as a family lounging around the house, a lunch outing with Brady, Kayla and the kids, going for a walk and watching a movie. It had been tradition in the past to go to Vegas and see a show or two, but with our new addition there was NO way we would/could leave without our Jijjy-Bug...
And since I can't go without a gift (ha ha)...Dustin is buying me a mother's necklace. It will be silver and have Jaiya's name engraved on it. When more little one's come, I can have their names engraved and add it to the necklace. I liked this idea...especially since it was mine...;) I am going to the Diamond Store to pick it out Tuesday, and I will post a pic as soon as I get it;)

I just want to add that I recently made an expensive purchase (at least I think so...it's a far cry from my Covergirl foundation) of Bare Minerals foundation! I.AM.IN.LOVE! It is so light and covers so well...They have a T.V promotion going on right now for $29.99 and I had to jump on the offer after a lady at work so kindly brought this great deal to my attention! You do sign up for a subscription, but the plan I chose is only about $38, still alot, but I plan on cancelling... Maybe I will wait til I have a good stalk built up before I cancel though. I will truly miss it!

And...I am going Au Natural...

with my hair that is...

I haven't been my natural "light brown" in SO long, so I thought for summer I would try it out again. I am still in the process, but...I am loving the change. Right now it is caramel/brown. Hopefully when I am done, I can have my natural brown that streaks on it's own in the sun;) You can kind of see that it is lighter in our pictures, but it looks so much darker in pictures than in person!

And, I cannot end without posting the latest about little Miss J!:
She is developing the cutest personality.
She giggles.
She sucks on her fists.
She droooooollllss like crazy. Teething maybe?!
She drinks 6 oz.
She is wearing anywhere from 3 to 6 months clothes.
She is sleeping in her crib. And still sleeps throughout the night.
She loves to cuddle.
She still loves her bath time, and watching cartoons.
She coo's and "talks" to you so much now. It is adorable.

This was Jaiya's second stroller ride...her first was the day before and we didn't get any pictures. Aren't they cute?! Cannon is such a sweetie. He just sat with her with his hand on her shoulder, and occasionly ate her blanky! ha ha

Hub took 4th at his wrestling tournament on Saturday. He was so proud! He kept saying, "Aunt Tash, I got first!" Love it! He didn't know the difference, and that's how it should be...:) Cause according to Aunt Tash, he did get first place!

J's Blessing Day

2011-03-05T09:29:00.000-08:00

February 27th
9:00 a.m

Salina 3rd Ward

Jaiya looked so precious in her white blessing dress. The same dress I wore on my blessing day.

It was made by Aunt MerriLyn 24 years ago, and looked just as beautiful on the day J wore it as it did when I wore it. Just like new. I am so greatful I get to share that with my baby girl.

J and I with Aunt MerriLyn

Over 70 friends and family came to support J on her big day. She is one loved little girl!!! It was so nice of everyone to travel and take the time to come! We are so blessed.

Grandma Dona made her beautiful knitted blanket!

4 Generations

Our Fun Filled February.

2011-02-24T12:41:00.000-08:00

-Our little J is getting so big! She is 14 lbs. 10 oz. and in the 97% for her weight! That's my girl! J is strictly on formula due to my lack of supply...and she eats almost 6 oz. during each feeding. Such a good lil' eater!

-She started trying to giggle last week, and it is so cute! It's not all the way there yet, but it's the cutest thing watching her progress! I love every little thing she does!

-We took her in to have her shots last Thursday, the 21st, and I am a bigger baby than she is when it comes to that kind of stuff. She was so giggly and happy and JAB right into the leg...her little heart was crushed, and therefore, so was mommy's!:(

-Almost every morning she watches cartoons and just coo's at the tv. Adorable. She loves anything on NICKJR!

-Bedtime is around 10:30p.m and she usually sleeps til 6 a.m. We really lucked out with her! She is the BEST baby!

-Her favorite toy is her gym. She loves it. She plays with it every single day!

My stylish babes! Her aunt Chas gave her those sunglasses, and grandma Mill posed her with her bunny for a little photoshoot!

J and Pappa!

Jaiya and Aunt Dez watching the Superbowl!

Look at this loveable face. She is the happiest baby;) She definitely melts mommy's heart!

Hub's birthday!!! He turned 4 on February 9th! What a funny kid. He is always pretending to ride bulls and always decked out in his cowboy gear pretending to be "Lane Frost!" He is a huge fan! Just like his uncle Jace.

Love my brother and sis...too bad Cole wasn't there!

I had class in Ogden, and our wonderful friends(and their grandparents) let us intrude and stay with them for a night! We went out for some delicious steak at Timbermine and then to the movies! We love spending time with these two. Always a blast!

On our way home we stopped in Bountiful to have dinner with some more wonderful friends, Zach and Tiff at Cafe Rio, and then dropped baby J off in SLC at yet another set of great friends, Jon and Jordan's house, while Dust and I went to the Jazz game with the tickets I got him for Valentines Day!!! ( He took me on a scavenger hunt around our house for V-Day which ended in money for me to SHOP, and took me out to dinner for some Chinese and then off to the funniest movie ever "Just Go with It!!!" We had a great day!) It was awesome that we were able to see so many of our friends while we were up that way!

Had turned 7 and J had the perfect outfit for Had's polka dot birthday party!

I took Had shopping for her birthday since that's what she asked for, and I am a cool aunt like that! Her cousin Kaylee came down for her party so me, J, Had, and Kaylee had a girls day out! We ate at El Mex and this was the pose the girlies gave me...aren't they little divas?!

I couldn't wait any longer so I tried putting J's hair in a ponytail. I LOVE IT! It is so tiny and pointy and she rocks it! This is one of my favorite pictures!

The loves of my life...

2011-02-08T08:50:00.001-08:00

We had so much fun on Saturday getting family pictures...

Look how big our little one is getting already!

I can't believe how fast she grows...

She is so sweet, and brings all the happiness in the world into our home.

We love you J!

Thanks Aunt Marg.

You do a great job!

photosbymargi.blogspot.com

"Punkin"

2011-01-24T20:05:00.000-08:00

Well, our little bundle of joy has taken on the name of "PUNKIN." I guess nicknames are my thing, but I never expected for that to be hers...It just comes natural for me to say it. So...it stuck.

Punkin has grown and changed SO much.

She now:

At about 3 weeks of age, she started smiling, and she smiles SO much.

She started coo-ing at about a month.

She still has ALL of her hair. (even in the back)

She has pooped and pee'd on our bed about a dozen times. And even though she is tiny and only drinking milk, she manages to really make a mess!

She has an appetite like her Mamma (as her daddy says). She at times eats 8 oz. in one feeding. I am still nursing, but I have to supplement with formula or milk that I have pumped at work, because I just can't keep her full.

She loves when Mommy or Daddy bounces and rocks her to sleep.

She get's up once or twice a night. Thank goodness, because Mamma doesn't function very well on no sleep. I might as well be a walking, ornery zombie...

She loves her hair tickled.

She LOVES baths.

As of January 12th she weighed about 12lbs. She has grown so much.

She has hummed herself to sleep since she was only a few weeks old.

She recognizes Mommy and Daddy's voices.

She is such a pleasant baby. She doesn't fuss unless she is hungry. She just chills, and goes with the flow. Even in the middle of the night when she wakes up she doesn't cry. I just hear her in her bassinet coo-ing and making noises, and I know she is awake and ready to eat. I have tried waiting for her to fuss, but she is just barely getting to the point where she will fuss to eat. I asked the doctor a while back if it was normal that she didn't cry. He just simply said, "You just have a very good baby!" Yes I do!

She had her first sleepover with Hadlee and Houston Saturday night. I love this pic. She cheesed it for the camera...she has only had a zillion pictures since she was born...she is definitely a pro now!

Same day. They went to grandma's house for a bit while their Mommy's went out to dinner!

Love.

2011-01-08T21:11:00.000-08:00

"God is the designer of the family. "

Gordon B. Hinckley

No words can describe the feeling of being a mother.

She makes my heart full

and life so much brighter.

Love you baby girl.

Photos taken by photographybykbrina.blogspot.com

It's that time of year...

2011-01-05T16:20:00.000-08:00

To make New Year's Resolutions.

I have to be honest, usually when I set "goals" it only lasts for about a week. Then I just don't care anymore, or I get sick of worrying about it.

So...this year, here are my resolutions: (my 1st resolutions to be exact, I have never done this before)

1. Lose this baby weight. I haven't been too hard on myself so far, considering it's only been a little over a month since I had the baby, but getting back in shape is definitely something I am going to do. Winter is hard, cause you can't go outside to work out, and if you live in a small town, gyms just aren't available! Thank goodness for ZUMBA! It is so fun, and I plan on starting back up once I hit my 6 week mark. Only a week to go!

2.Not procrastinating. I haven't always been a procrastinator. But, as I have gotten older, adn more laid back, it just crept up on me. It only causes more stress, and that is one thing I want less of now that I am a new mommy, going to school, and working...
This applies to all areas: Laundry, dishes, grocery shopping, school, church callings, etc. This one will probably take some practice and LOTS of discipline...wish me luck.

3.Cooking. I actually really enjoy cooking. But, I hardly ever cook. It costs a lot to make really yummy recipes for just the 2 of us, and left-overs just go to waste. And quite frankly, I am too lazy half of the time! ;)

4.Getting places on time. This too is something I picked up over the years. Mainly cause of Dustin. (sorry babe) But, he just doesn't stress about getting anywhere early. I used to. Then I found it easier to conform to his ways, and now I am the same way. Not good, I know. This especially applies to church. It seems like we are ALWAYS late for church. I don't know what it is, but I am bound and determined to fix it.

And last but not least:

5. Less spending. I love to shop, I love pop, I love to eat, I love going to the movies...and the list just gets longer. All things I love to do, seem to cost money;) I think a nice tight budget is just the cure. Okay, not too tight. I just need to cut back. Summer time is less expensive, cause there is more to do outdoors, and things that I love to do that are free come with warm weather: four-wheeling, cabin, hiking, riding bikes, walks, the lake...So...either it needs to be summer all year round or I need to make a change...hmmm.

Well, I am going to do my best at keeping my 1st New Year's resolutions;) Hopefully they last more than a week!

I am now...

2011-01-05T13:42:00.000-08:00

The big 2-4!

This year I was spoiled with new shoes, perfume (some from Dust and some from his parents!!! YAY!), a watch, and scrubs from my hubby, and Mom and Jer gave me the picture of the SLC temple that I had been wanting FOREVER!

Dustin and Jaiya took me out the day before my birthday for some shopping and some lunch. Nothing like my 1st birthday as a new mommy!;) It was the best thus far!

Then, the day of my birthday, we woke up and went to Tyson and Lana's little boy Jaxton's baby blessing. (Tyson did such a great job!!!) Then we headed to Richfield with Ma and Jer for some lunch;) (I really like to eat if you can't tell!)

Couldn't have asked for a better birthday!

Isn't it gorgeous??? I LOVE IT! I love all temples, but the Salt Lake temple is by far my favorite! The architecture, the landscaping, everything about it I love. Can't wait to go inside someday...

On the 4th, we went up to the Jazz game with Mike and Dez. It was so much fun to hang out with them. We don't get to very often, everyone is so busy! We had seats on row 15, and the Jazz beat the Pistons! YAY! Can't wait to go again!

Cute Mike and Dez

Just helpin' him out...that's what friends are for right?!

Not quite sure who this man is...but Dez thought he was pretty cute apparently!;)

Ryan Seacrest and Julianne Hough were there...we didn't even know until we left and Dustin's dad called to tell us:( Darn, we could have done some major stalking if we would have known!!!

2011.

2011-01-05T13:33:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year

This year we celebrated just the 3 of us.

We went to see the movie True Grit (amazing) and later went out for a cappacino and breakfast food at Denny's.

It was perfect.

This year is bound to be a great one since we get to enjoy every minute of it with our new little angel.

She makes life so much better.

I cannot wait to see what 2011 has in store for us.

Jaiya's 1st Month

2010-12-26T16:48:00.001-08:00

Jaiya has a been a busy little girl...

She met so many great people, and experienced her 1st Christmas.

It's been a great month.

Her 1st Bath

Pappa Jerry

Grandma Bernitta

4 Generations

Pappa Dugan

Her 1st Playdate with Jaxton!

Instant Buddies

Napping on Daddy

Kayla and Had

Josh and Alley with their new neice!!!

Grandma and Grandpa Stewart

Meeting Bry and Lilly for the first time!;)

Had is such a good babysitter already!!!

With Grandma Mill;)

Dustin and Jaiya with Brickell and her cousin Trexton! Only 3 months apart!

Tiff came home on leave from Afghanistan. So happy her and Dave came to visit and meet baby Jaiya. Sad that I didn't get any pics of her with her though...:(

Grandma and Grandpa playin' with the baby!!!

CHRISTMAS

At Pappa Mike and Grandma Candi's on Christmas Eve!

Then we went to Pappa Jerry and Grandma Mill's;)

She was quite relaxed meeting Santa for the 1st time...if you can't tell! ha ha

Santa came early on Christmas Eve cause Dustin had to be to work by 5:30 Christmas morning. Jaiya definitely got spoiled!

Best gift we could ever have asked for...

She definitely got spoiled!

CHRISTMAS DAY:

Jaiya and Uncle Neil at Grandma Neeber's!

Lilly's Blessing Day:

All of the cousins on the Sorenson side.

All the cousins and their families.

Lot's of babies born this year!

In their new clothes from Grandma Mill;)

Fewww... That only took me 2-3 weeks to get done! Ugh.

So much to share!

Hope you all had a Merry Christmas.

Meet...

2010-12-13T11:45:00.001-08:00

the newest member of our family.

Our pride and joy.

Jaiya Ivie Johnson

born December 1, 2010.

7 lbs. 8 oz.

20 1/2 inches.

Sleepin' by Daddy.

Our little princess arrived on the 1st at 7:18 p.m. She was as healthy as could be, and we could not be happier.

Monday, the 29th of November, I went in for yet another appointment, and the news was the same as it had been for the past month! No change. Still dilated to a 1, cervix STILL tilted back and high. I was hoping so bad that I had changed since the week before. I was beginning to think this little angel wasn't ever going to come out, but live inside of me forever. Not that I didn't enjoy her inside my tummy, but I desperately wanted to meet her. The excitement is almost unmanageable the last couple weeks.

I joked with the doctor that I thought he should start me. I was just about to my due date and, your risks do go up again after you have hit 40 weeks. Doc agreed considering I wasn't changing on my own. He debated between starting me that night or waiting til Friday, the 3rd, unless something happened in the meantime of course. All things considered he decided that I should go in that night at 6 p.m, and they would give me a medication, Cytotec, that attaches like tape to soften my cervix and hopefully help me progress. (nurse 1st night: Angie Powell) The next morning they removed the Cytotec, and started me on the Pitocin that helps contract the uterus. I was on that all of Tuesday, and it only helped to dilate me another centimeter, so doc decided to take me off of the pitocin for the night, and start back up Wednesday morning. (Nurse Tuesday day: Michelle ???) So, Tuesday night, we enjoyed some pizza, and visited with family, hoping that the next day we would meet our little angel...(Tuesday's night nurse: Shelbie Lund)

Wednesday morning, we woke up and Barbara Hyett, our nurse for the day, started me on the pitocin for the 2nd time. I was so happy to see Barbara. I have known her my entire life, and it meant so much to have her there on what was about to become the BIGGEST day of my life. She told me- there is no reason why we shouldn't have a baby today...- best news I had gotten in 3 days.

Between about 2 and 4 in the afternoon, (can't remember what time) I had dilated just enough...almost a 3...and was able to get my epidural. Dr. Judy did the epidural himself, and he did a great job. It took about a half an hour to do it, because he said there was something blocking the needle/wire from threading through. He kept asking if I had ever had a back injury, and to my knowledge I had not. Just my car accident in 2003, and no back injury was ever diagnosed. But after staying hunched over, head down, and enduring my strongest contractions, the epidural was finally in. Dustin, in the meantime, didn't do so well with me getting an epidural. I couldn't see him, since my head was down, but Barb and my mom said he turned white as could be. Barb kept saying- do you need to sit down?- So he decided to hold my hand, instead of my shoulders where he had been at the beginning, and Barb and my mom took turns with my shoulders. I must say, epidurals are amazing! From here on out, I was as happy as a clam, while having contractions at the same time!;) I don't take medications well, because I never take any, and the epidural had numbed me clear up my right side. My eye was drooping, my chest was numb, and I was kind of getting nervous...but they propped me up on my left side, and while I visited with Lily and Rolf, my numbness eased up quite a bit, and eventually went away!

At about 5-ish, Barb came back in to check to see if I had progressed any. At first she said- Wow, you are at a 9, if you feel the urge to push let me know...- and she went about rushing to get the room set up for delivery. I was so excited, and yes, very nervous too. She checked me one more time and decided I was in fact only at an 6 almost 7, so she had enough enough time to call Dr. Judy in, and by 6 we were ready to start pushing. We had my mom, Dustin's mom, and my sister in the room with us. Doc said the baby had a pretty big head for the size of my pelvis, so we may need an episiotomy and maybe the vaccum to get her out. I pushed for an hour and twenty minutes, and I was able to get her out with the help of an episiotomy and NO vaccum.

Everyone did such a great job with the delivery. Dustin was amazing. He was so sweet and so supportive. He kept telling me that we were getting close, that you could see all of her hair!!!

Dr. Judy and Barbara were amazing as well. I couldn't have asked for a better doctor and nurse. I also couldn't have done it without my amazing mom, who counted to 10 a gazillion times as I pushed...;) Love you guys.

The next morning at around 9, Doc came in to check on the baby and I, and he said all looked good so we were free to leave...YAY! Less than 12 hours in the hospital and we get to go home!!!

Our little "Diva"...already has the paparazzi after her...;)

Getting ready to head home...

Today, Dustin...

2010-11-21T18:30:00.000-08:00

received the priesthood.

We were so happy that Jerry could be there to ordain him a Priest. I don't know what we would do without Jerry. He has been such a huge part of both of our lives and we love him beyond words. And thanks to Mom for always supporting us in everything that we do...We know that we can always count on her for anything! We love you two!!!

I am so proud of what an amazing husband I have. I love that every Sunday, he takes it upon himself to teach our primary class. He has a way with kids, and they all love him. I pretty much only teach if Dustin can't be there...not that I don't want to...but listening to him teach is the best part of my week. He has such a strong testimony of the gospel, and I too learn so much from him and his example.

I feel incredibly blessed to call him my husband, and to be starting a family together. He is already the best daddy ever, and I know that because of him...our future will be filled with wonderful blessings.

Graduation

2010-11-17T18:49:00.001-08:00

After 15 weeks of training, Dustin has graduated from the Utah Department of Corrections Training Academy, class 249, and is now "Officer Johnson."

He got 90% in academics.

96% in PT.

and 90% in firearms.

For those who know Dustin, it will come as no suprise that he excelled in every part of his training. I am so proud of him for all of his hard work and dedication. He loves corrections, and is so excited to be starting his career.

My Handsome Hubby;)

Our brother-in-law, "Officer McDonald," presented Dustin with his certificate.

Anne, Kent, Dustin and I

Note: I will call these officers by their last names since that's all I know them by...;)

Workman, Johnson, Strausser, Hatch, and Ernest

Asay, Johnson, Rich

Hatch, Kennedy, Peterson, Johnson, and Workman

Major King, Dustin, and Lt. BJ

Craig, who is the Director of Programming over the state of Utah, has been a huge part of both mine and Dustin's lives since we were younger. We both love this man so much, and we are so thankful for all of his help, especially as Dustin has began his career in Corrections.

Dustin and his Mom and Dad

Mom, Dustin, and Jerry

Congrats babe! I love you!

2010-11-08T19:47:00.000-08:00

Somehow, while adding a new template to my blog, I no longer have any blogs on my page...I am so mad cause I had SO many I loved to read. Hopefully I can gradually get all of your blogs back...

Yet another...

2010-11-07T19:49:00.000-08:00

Hospital visit.

At work on Thursday, I started having contractions which I timed at 8 minutes apart.

I could tell they were stronger than the ones I was having a couple of weeks ago, because during my first hospital visit, I could see on the monitor that I was having contractions, but I couldn't feel them. This time, I was feeling them. I was even kind of getting that crampy feeling.

(FYI, I work at the Richfield hospital, and I am delivering at the Gunnison hospital. Dr. Judy was out of town all of last week, so...)

With the help and advice of the girls at work, we talked to a few nurses at the Richfield hospital, and my doctors office in Gunnison, and decided I should be admitted for another NST. I just stayed at the Richfield hospital because doc wasn't even available, so if I had to be seen by another doctor either way I might as well just be seen in Richfield since I was already there.

By the time they hooked me up to the monitors, my contractions were 4 minutes apart. Once the doctor had checked me to see if I had started dilating, I was, in his words, "Contracting up a storm." Since I was only dilated to a 1, he said to go ahead and go home, and it was either going to go 1 of 2 ways: I would either really be in labor, or the contractions would subside with a little R&R. But, at this point, I am far enough along that he didn't want to stop my contractions.

Sure enough, with a little R&R, the contractions eased up, and we are still just waiting...

Although I am getting very anxious and excited for our little girl to get here, I feel better knowing she has more time to develop inside my tummy, and doc will be here to deliver;)

Hopefully our next post will be the announcement of our baby girl.

Yay!

2010-10-31T16:02:00.000-07:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

LOVE.

ABBY - CADABBY

For the Record

2010-10-27T19:24:00.000-07:00

This past month, my blood pressure has played games with us, rising way above my normal readings. I watched it pretty good for a week, keeping a log for the doctor, and he decided that all was good. It was probably just rising from being on my feet at work. He said if it by chance rises above 140 systolic, or above 90 diastolic , that I would need to let him know.

With that being said...

I noticed I was a little flush in the cheeks on Monday, so right before I left work we checked my blood pressure. Normal for me is about 98/65, and it was 143/96... Well, the numbers were above what he asked me to watch for, so I gave him a call and he had me go in for an NST. Baby was doing great...no rapid heart rate, and she moves regularly, but we did notice I was having contractions. Every 3 minutes to be exact. So, they took some blood, and gave me an IV to see if the fluid would stop them. (also checking to see if I was progressing anywhere else, which I wasn't) In the meantime I had an ultrasound, (baby weighs about 6 lb. 4 oz. right now!) and everything looks great. She is nice and chubby with plenty of fluid around her! The fluid from the IV wasn't stopping my contractions, so...Doc decided to give me a shot, some type of muscle relaxer, to stop them. Sure enough...after 4 hours in the hospital, the contractions stopped, and I was able to go home! Doc's orders are to take it easy and if I have contractions, get off my feet and see if they stop! The cause was probably related to being on my feet all day, stressing about school, and always being busy. So, we will try resting every now and then and hope we can keep her in at least another 2 weeks. I would hate for her little lungs to not be developed, or any other complication for that matter, so...we will keep you updated!

We had my shower this past weekend (pics coming soon), which turned out great, thanks to my WONDERFUL mom! Lots of loved ones were able to make it, and I am so greatful for all that we recieved! We are truly blessed.

Daddy didn't waste any time, and he got EVERYTHING set up from the shower; the stroller/carseat, pack-n-play, swing, and highchair. In the meantime, mommy got EVERYTHING else organized...It's all waiting patiently in the nursery for baby to arrive!

Lots of Love.

Life's Lessons

2010-10-24T15:46:00.000-07:00

Something I was very fortunate to learn at an early age, during the most trying times of my life,

is this:

Surround yourself by those you love. who make you happy. who understand you. who accept you. who make you a better person. who are loving. who inspire you. who have your best interest at heart. who you can trust. who you can learn from. who don't judge. who you know are real.

All others aren't worthy of being a part of your life.

Life is too short to waste time on those who bring you down.

34 Weeks

2010-10-17T09:38:00.000-07:00

and only 6 more to go...

Despite my "geriatric-like" symptoms (random rises in blood pressure, and some pressure on my nerves that make me hobble/limp around for a few minutes) everything has been GREAT!

I have gained about 20 pounds so far...

Our little one now takes up my whole tummy and she is very very active. She feels so big that at times her movements kind of hurt;) Especially those unexpected jabs to the rib cage!!!

Through ultrasound pictures we know she has LOTS of hair!

We got some great pictures of her in 3D sucking her thumb, and sticking out her tongue! Priceless! Technology is amazing!

Baby turned about a month ago, and she hasn't rotated again, so chances are she will stay this way til she is born.

We have finished her nursery!

Part of her Christmas has been bought...

and we are very anxious for her arrival.

Just a pic of the proud soon-to-be parents...;)

GIRLS WEEKEND- Take 3!

Mom was so nice, and planned another girls weekend down to St.G to see Tarzan at the Tuicahan and of course we fit in some shopping!

We had an amazing time...with LOTS of laughs!

And...CONGRATULATIONS to Cole and Heather on the arrival of baby Lillian Marie Sorenson!!! She is absolutely beautiful!

While I played with baby Lilly, cute lil' Bry Bry painted uncle Dustin's fingernails.

If any one would like a good laugh just take a look at this next picture...We went to Taco Time a few weeks ago for lunch, and the girl asked for my name...I said "Matasha", emphasizing the "Mmmm" as I always do, and this is what she got out of it...

ha ha ha ha! I have NEVER heard that one before...

Thanks for laugh girl at Taco Time!

I love it!

A camping we will go..

2010-09-12T19:41:00.000-07:00

Dustin and I did not go camping 1 single time this summer:( Come to think of it, we never do, because anytime we go to the mountains, it's to the cabin (WHICH WE LOVE) with Mom and Jerry. So, as far as camping goes, we haven't been in probably 2 or 3 years... This past weekend, we got together with our friends Josh and Allayna and took a 1 night camping trip out to Maple Grove...We had a great time.

PJ TIME!

Dustin and Josh went fishing the next morning without us, so...we decided we would try to show them up, and we snagged a pole, and went out looking for a good fishing place...

This is what we found;)

And we each caught a fish!

Yes, we even gutted them ourselves! Impressive, I know;)

28 Weeks

2010-09-12T16:52:00.000-07:00

Only 11 weeks to go!

Baby is healthy and full of energy. She kicks all day long! I can't say I mind, though, cause every time she kicks it's just as exciting as the first time I ever felt her. Dustin probably feels like I am a broken record, I am always having him feel my stomach or watch her move. She seems to be getting stronger by the day. I love to just sit and watch my stomach bulge and jump as she moves around.

I had an ultrasound last week, and we found that baby has definitely got some hair! That's a relief considering I had a TON, and Dust was a toe head! We weren't sure who she would take after, but so far I take the lead...;)

My stomach is huge! Bending over has become next to impossible. I have to turn my toes out and bend with my legs instead of at my hips. I am sure it's extremely flattering, but whatever works right?!

I am starting to feel tired again, like I did the first trimester. I try to make sure I get plenty of rest so I have the energy to make it through work and school. It seems to be working, but the minute I walk in my door I crash...I turn in to a big blob and stay on the couch til bedtime. I do, however, fit in eating, a hot bath, and talking to Dustin on the phone.

Some new symptoms:
*I feel short of breath: I have to take in long, deep breaths often to feel as though I am getting enough air.
*I find that I spend approximately 90% of time in the restroom...I just can't get that part under control...baby is getting bigger and sitting right on my bladder;)
*I can't eat near as much in one sitting. I get too full, too fast, and that is a huge contributor to my shortness of breath, so I have resorted to grazing...smaller meals more often.
*My clothes are definitely getting tighter. Mainly just my shirts. I am still in my jeans and I have not bought anything maternity at this point. Hopefully I won't have to considering I only have a couple of months left.
*I have noticed a red tint in my hair. I try to dye it really dark to get rid of it, but it just doesn't disappear. I actually noticed it at about 4 or 5 months in to my pregnancy, but I thought it was just the brand of dye I was using at the time...nope, it's my hair...lovely...;)

Labor Day Weekend

2010-09-06T21:15:00.001-07:00

Labor day weekend we spent our time up at the cabin with mom and Jer! We watched TONS of movies, ate LOTS, and went on a 4-wheeler ride!

Thanks Ma and Jer for the fun weekend...it was great!

It takes hands to build a house, but only hearts can build a home.

2010-09-06T19:29:00.000-07:00

Awww...

Our house is just getting better and better. We spent all spring working on the landscaping (my input was dictating where things should go considering I have a "bun in the oven"), and we have also been working on some projects for the inside of our house.

(Notice our new shutters...they defnitely gave the house a more "finished" look.)

John Bar and Dustin made our cute mailbox, and I LOVE it. They did a great job.

We re-finished this desk that we bought at a yard sale a while back. $30 was all we paid for this beauty. I would say that's fair considering the spiders, spider eggs, and gross-ness that came with it. YUCK.

Thanks to Tiff for her generosity in sharing this wonderful site that has great ideas for re-finishing furniture! I used this "glazing" technique for my next two projects, and it turned out great! It was exactly what I needed to brighten up my living room. It just needed...something...and I couldn't be happier with the outcome.

Chas gave me this cute shelf....BEFORE

AFTER;)

END TABLES- $15 each off of KSL...I love bargain shopping!

BEFORE
(before glazing that is)
My sweet hubby had them painted for me when I got home from work so that all I had to do was glaze. Thank you babe! We didn't get a before picture cause we completely spaced it, but they had that 70's-80's look to them...a dark brown, wood look with bright gold handles...no so cute. But, now, they are just perfect;)

AFTER!

I LOVE OUR HOME!

Next, the babies room, and finishing our basement...;) Can't wait.

6 Months and Counting...

2010-08-17T20:26:00.000-07:00

First off- Thank you to everyone who had such kind words about my last post. I was so nervous for everything to change and your sweet remarks meant alot. It's nice to know that people care... Dustin has really enjoyed his time up at post! He has done well in PT, and has enjoyed learning about the field of corrections. He took corrections classes in college and loved it, so this is right up his alley! School has been great for me. I love the people, learning, and actually being on a schedule for the first time in a long time!

PREGNANCY

I hit my 6 month mark a week ago from today. (I still don't have a charger for my camera battery so I am a little late posting pics...) This pregnancy has gone by so fast. Our little one is still as healthy as ever. I was able to get another ultrasound about a week ago, and she was squirming around and kicking like crazy. It was so cute... she was also sucking, and you could see her little mouth moving!

My pregnancy thus far...
*She is now about 13 inches long. (according to babycenter.com)
*Dustin and I played music for her the other night, and she responded immediately.
*My belly has really grown during this past week... along with the "girls" that have decided to "fill up" a little bit earlier than expected...I must say, weirdest part of being pregnant...
*I have had a cheeseburger almost every day this past week! Mmmm. Appetite is defnitely healthy.
*I ordered a belly belt for a little more support while I am at the hospital. This growing belly is killing my back! I can't wait to try it out. I hear they're amazing.
*Tummy butter has become a part of my daily routine. I haven't got a stretch mark yet...and I am hoping to prevent any in the future.
*I am still a little tired, but nothing I can't handle.

Only 2 months and 3 weeks til our due date! I am so excited I can hardly sleep at night. She is already so loved...

Things are about to Change...

2010-07-30T21:59:00.000-07:00

I always get extremely scared when BIG changes arise. And BIG changes are definitely arising around our household...not only are we expecting our 1st baby, but Dustin recently (thank heaven) got a job at the prison. CONGRATS BABE. I am so proud of him, he really wanted this job, and has always been interested in corrections! I also know how much stress it is supposed to relieve to know that he finally, after all of the tests he has been through, got offered the job, but I have mixed emotions...He will start academy on the 9th, and for 16 weeks he will be living up north 4 days a week, and home on weekends. Boo. I have been extremely blessed to get to spend so much time with my husband our first 3 years of marriage, and I am not ready for life to change so drastically! After these 16 weeks, I will feel MUCH better!;)
On top of his new job, I go to my orientation for school on the 3rd of August, and I am getting extremely nervous about being in school while being pregnant, with a husband who is gonna be gone. Maybe this is all a mixture of pregnancy hormones (which according to Dustin are on HIGH this past week), and my easily triggered stress, but I don't feel ready for all this:(
On the opposite end of the spectrum, I am VERY grateful for these changes. I know that they are all for the better, and HUGE blessings in our lives. We are finally working towards our careers and building a family, and I couldn't be happier. But even the best of times can be a little scary when you don't know what to expect, right?!

BABY NEWS:
Things are still looking good with the pregnancy. Our little one is kicking more than ever. Once we hit about 5 months, I could tell she suddenly became so much stronger. Her favorite time to move is whenever mommy lays down to relax for a bit!;) Makes relaxing even better! Dustin and I laid and watched my stomach move for the first time Tuesday morning, it's so crazy that we can not only FEEL her move, but also SEE it! I know once this little one gets here I am going to miss being able to feel her move every day...
I have now put on about 10 lbs!!! Doc says, although I am healthy and he is not worried, I need to gain weight just a little bit faster in order to hit at least 25 lbs at the end of all this, but I can assure you I am eating lots, and doing EVERYTHING I can to make sure this little gal is healthy.
***
Keeping busy...
We have been up to so much lately...I have recently started selling my watchbands/jewelry at Sunkyst Tans here in Salina, and Dust has stayed really busy with wreckers, also...We have finished the front yard, added shutters to the house, and I am re-finishing a desk that I bought at a yard sale! So much to post but...no camera...Once I get my battery charger back, I will post pictures!!!

Update...

2010-07-25T21:31:00.000-07:00

Just a little update on my jewelry blog...click here or on my blog button on the left side of my page to view;)

5 Months

2010-07-13T14:34:00.001-07:00

We are at 20 weeks!

I feel absolutely GREAT.

I have definitely been growing, and so has our baby girl.

She is now the length of a BANANA from head to rump.

She is kicking a lot more. And I absolutely love it.

Daddy felt her for the first time the other night. It wasn't very strong but...he felt her.

His eyes lit up. I have been so excited for the day Dustin could feel her, it not only makes it more real for him, but we get to experience it together...

As for my eating habits:

I haven't been having any weird cravings lately. I just drink a lot of milk...at least its good for the baby;)

The bedding for the baby has finally came, and we are now going to begin on the nursery.

I LOVE decorating, and it has been so fun coming up with ideas for our little girl.

Her room colors are orange, pink, and green...;)

ONLY 4 MORE MONTHS TIL SHE IS HERE!

JULY

2010-07-07T23:24:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 4th OF JULY!!!

The 4th of July is my favorite holiday. (Well...that and Thanksgiving)

It's been almost 4 years since Dustin has celebrated in Salina, and almost 3 for me.

Way too long!

Since this year the 4th landed on a Sunday, all of the festivities were held on Saturday...

We had a great time going to the Gunnison and Salina parades, and the Salina rodeo...

Beau-Cruise Eating at El Mexi before the Salina Parade

Dustin and Cole drove a wrecker in the parade.

Catching Candy

Had and Bry

At the Salina Rodeo

Love this picture of Dustin watching the fireworks

Cody and Kim

Brady and Kayla

Family BBQ

Mom invited all of us kiddos over for a BBQ on the "official" 4th.

It was SO yummy.

We ate, played in the yard, reminisced, and had LOTS of laughs.

Our parents should be so proud...;)

Love them.

Jace and Cody

That night we watched fireworks at Dustin's parents house.

Dez, Candi, Gage, Me, and Kez

I would dare say, Kez HATES fireworks...she shook the WHOLE time!

Measha, Darion, Shandee, and Taylen

*HAPPY BIRTHDAY DUSTIN *

Dustin turned 25 today.

We didn't go all out.

We had lunch, lounged around, and went to his softball games in Richfield...

His type of day...low key!

He MADE me promise not to buy him anything because he wanted to get shutters for the house instead. Always doing the practical thing...That's what I LOVE about him.

I made him a funfetti cake, his fave, and gave him a card.

As I have gotten older, I realize that less really is more!

Love you honey, I hope your day was everything you wanted. You are everything to me!;)

Better late than never...

April's Wedding

April and Rowdy got married June 5th.

I was her Maid of Honor, and I must say, it really was an honor.

We had a great time in Mesquite, and were so happy we were able to be a part of their special day.

April was such a gorgeous bride.

Love you guys! Congratulations!

IT'S A...

2010-07-01T18:17:00.000-07:00

GIRL!!!

Let the shopping begin...

My mom and I went straight to Richfield, and bought her 3 new outfits, slippers, and some socks!

I knew from the beginning this was a baby girl. (we all thought so) I like to think it was my motherly instincts already hard at work!;)

My mom, Dustin, and I were in awe with this little one the whole 2 hours we were in ultrasound.

She is 9 oz, and growing by the day!

Seeing our baby girl for the first time was the neatest experience of my life to date!

This sweet little girl is amazing to me.

She is a part of me, and I already love everything about her...

sucking her thumb...(taking after Mommy)

You can see her little nose and lips...sleeping with her mouth open...again...just like her Mommy!

She is curled up right here...

Girlie parts!...

Yes, we do have a name picked out...but, I haven't decided if I want to tell people or keep it a secret til she is born???

Decision is still pending...;)

4 Months

2010-06-15T15:32:00.000-07:00

I am 16 weeks, and LOVING it!

Our baby is the size of an avocado.

I am finally exercising again...going for 3 mile walks 6 days a week!

I feel great.

We go in for our next appointment on the 24th, and we get to schedule our ultrasound to see what we are having!

ANY GUESSES:

BOY?

Girl?

As for us, Dustin really wants a girl, and I truly just want a healthy baby... but, I have had a feeling since the beginning that it is in fact, a girl!

Doc thinks so too!

Pregnancy Symptoms:

I felt the baby for the first time about 3 days ago!...Indescribable!

No more throwing up! Fewww...

I am still repulsed by chicken, but not all meat.

I LOVE slushies.

I am not as tired, but I do get worn out easy.

My pants are definitely getting tighter.

I can feel my body changing: my hips ache at night, my back hurts, and my shoulders are extremely tense.

Thanks to my sweet husband, the back aches don't last long...

We still cannot believe that we are gonna be parents in 5 months!!! It's been the most exciting thing that has ever happened to either of us. Dustin and I are both impatient, so this baby could not get here fast enough! I am dying to start on the nursery, so...as of now, I am just looking forward to finding out what we are having...YAY!

Inspired

2010-05-20T18:55:00.000-07:00

I cannot wait to read this book...

I posted about this story last summer, and now, after nearly 9 months since returning home, I watched an interview on Larry King Live as Laura Ling told her experience of imprisonment in her own words, as well as her sister, Lisa Ling, talking about her fight to get her sister home safely.

I am looking forward to reading their book as soon as I can get my hands on it!...

Truly Inspiring...;)

3 Months

2010-05-18T22:37:00.001-07:00

My morning sickness is easing up...

My energy is almost back to normal...

My belly is growing...

Our baby is the size of a LIME!

I am now starting my 2nd trimester!!!

My pregnancy symptoms at this point:

I am repulsed by meat...trying to find something to eat is the hardest thing right now!

All I want is FRESH...Nothing that had arteries, veins, tendons, ligaments, fat, and lots of other things running through it.

Meat is NOT my friend.

Especially chicken.

YUCK. I gag at the thought.

Updates...

2010-05-11T09:23:00.000-07:00

Baby Update:

I am almost through my first trimester!...1 more week to go!

And, I cannot even begin to tell you how much I have LOVED being pregnant! It has been the most amazing experience of my life! Knowing their is a precious baby inside me, is almost unfathomable! I want nothing more than for this lil' one to be healthy and happy! It is crazy how your motherly-instincts kick in immediately and you start to worry about EVERYTHING: eating right, staying away from things that could possibly harm the baby, getting plenty of rest, and plenty of food and water...and the list goes on...

Our last doctors appointment was on April 29th, and we heard the baby's heartbeat for the first time! It was so neat! It was a little fast, but nothing to worry about!

Here is a picture of our 1st ultrasound at 6 weeks 6 days...just a few days after our first doctors appointment, so the baby was about the size of a grain of rice. Now, at 11 weeks, it is about the size of a fig...;)

On a sour note:

I have been SO SICK! My morning sickness is more like, all day sickness. Or, I have days where I feel great! Weird...My hunger and my appetite contradict each other...I am ALWAYS hungry, and NOTHING sounds good! But, even so, I have loved every minute. I will do whatever it takes!;)

Good News:

After finishing up my pre-reqs

Job Shadowing

and LOTS and LOTS of stressing...

I got a letter in the mail last week from Weber State University saying I got ACCEPTED into the Radiology program!!! YAY!!! All the hard work paid off, and I couldn't be happier!

School starts up in August, and we get all of December off. Since the baby is due November 30th-ish...it works out perfect. When I start back up in January, unless something changes, Dustin will be home with the baby the 3 days I am at the hospital! If a job surfaces for Dustin, I may need advice on good baby-sitters...;)

Keepin' Busy:

We have been enjoying the few days of nice weather that we have had...

So, we have been working in the yard!

We are almost done with our mounds, and I will post pictures asap!

It is a lot of work!

My 1st Mother's Day:

My 1st Mother's Day couldn't have been more perfect! Dustin got me a beautiful ring, and some cute summer clothes;) We went to lunch with Mom, Jerry, Grandma Dona, and Kayla and the kids at Big Rock Candy Mountain! It was delish, and great to spend the day with family!

And, Happy Mother's Day to our 2 beautiful mom's! We are so lucky!

SO EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE...

2010-04-30T10:10:00.000-07:00

We are expecting our 1st BABY!!!

Turns out the Bahamas treated us well...;)

Our new addition is due around November 30th!

Our Doctor thinks around Dec. 1st.

The ultrasound put us due on Nov. 27th!...We'll see!

The day we found out:

I was getting ready to go to lunch with my cousin Kiley on March 25th, and Dustin got a phone call...It was Cole...

He said to Dustin, "Are you sure Tash isn't pregnant?"

Dustin, "I don't think so, how come?"

Cole, "Cause I keep having dreams that she is.."

Me yelling from the bathroom, "What did he just say?"

Dustin, "Cole thinks your pregnant..."

Me, "That's it, I am getting a test just to make sure..."

Well, that afternoon, right before my Physiology class, I took a pregnancy test and it came back positive...I had to leave for class in 30 min. so we immediately told Dustin's parents, and after sitting through class for 3 hours and hitting a deer on the way home, we finally got to tell my Mom and Jerry! I have honestly NEVER been so excited!

Previous signs:

Back in February, we went to the Bahamas...'nuf said;)

Then...

When we went to Vegas for our Anniversary, and I was seriously so hungry...like every hour I was eating something....I knew I felt different, but I truly didn't think I was pregnant!

I was craving lemons...

I was EXTREMELY tired...

Yes, maybe even a little irritable at times...

But, thanks to Cole's "visions," and 3 pregnancy tests we found out at 5 weeks along!

We told our parents right away...the minute we found out. But considering the fact that we leave and sell for the summer, we thought we would have a BBQ at our house to tell the rest of our family in person... I made sugar cookies with "+" signs on them. Cole and Heather also announced that they are expecting baby #2. They wrote the cutest poem and had my sister read it to the whole family! What a great day!!!

(we also told our grandparents, right away...I bought a bottle of Prego for each of them and tied a blue and pink ribbon around the top! I tried to emphasize the Prego by adding quotations and underlining it... it took them a minute to catch on, but it turned out great!)

We told Dustin's sisters by showing them the bottles of Prego we bought for my grandparents! We told them that we bought them their favorite spaghetti sauce. Chas and Dez both said, "That's wierd...you bought us spaghetti sauce?" ha ha! And then we had to ask them what kind it was...after that they both caught on!!!;)

Update:

We have decided not to go sell this summer. We are going to miss our friends so much, but I am so excited to spend our first summer "married" in Utah! We have been thinking long and hard about what was best for us, and we decided maybe taking the summer to prepare for the baby, and having the summer for Dustin to find a steady job, was what we should do!

Yesterday, we heard our baby's heartbeat for the first time! What a neat experience! It is finally starting to sink in that in 6 1/2 months we will have a sweet baby!

Life is great! xoxo

Who's been Lookin'???

2010-04-06T12:37:00.000-07:00

In the past, I have had a few comments from people that were blog-hopping and found our blog! It made me so happy to know that people I didn't even know were taking the time to look at what we have been up to! I would love for you to become a follower, or leave a comment whether you are friends we know, or friends we don't know! Another reason for this: I find that most of the time, I don't even know some people have blogs! This way I can add to my friends list as well!!!

Hope you all have a great week!

P.s. If you have gone PRIVATE and I either did not send my e-mail or my invite expired...please resend the invite! I just went through all of my friends and family list and some of you HAVE sent me an invite to your blog, and for some reason I did not check my e-mail in time!:( Thanks!!

Here Come's Peter Cottontail....

2010-04-06T09:18:00.000-07:00

Hoppin' down the Bunny Trail...

And so we did!

We spent Easter weekend with my Mom and Jerry exploring the great outdoors, hiking, and eating! We stayed in a littel motel in Blanding, and visited Natural Bridges National Monument, Hovenweep National Monument, and Arches National Park! It was SO much fun! I had never been to any of these places before, and I still cannot believe how GORGEOUS all of it was! We really do live in such a beautiful state!;)

FrEeZinG!

Ok, so my hand looks like it is in a wierd spot...but I promise, it's just an illusion! ha

Mom and Jer!

Dustin looking out over the Dugway...

Tryin' to look like Royalty at this castle!;)

See the HEART rock?

Hmm....no comment;)

Mom, you make a GREAT indian!!!

Yes, we got in trouble for this! Don't recommend! ha I am the paranoid one of the group!

See the horse? I thought this was A.M.A.Z.I.N.G!!! It really does make a perfect horse!

Little Monticello Temple!

PEACE! Me and Ma at the top!

You can see Delicate Arch in between us...ya, we were pretty far away!!!

Hope you all had a wonderful Easter!

March Random-ness

2010-03-28T21:50:00.000-07:00

Here is what we have been up to this month....

1. Brylee and Heather came to visit

2. We finally got our living room {pretty much} done.

3. I got some pictures of our cute lil' Kezi. {I don't take enough!}

I NEVER get as "baby-hungry" as I do when our sweet little Brylee comes to visit! She is always so happy and full of life! I L.O.V.E her cute personality, she is hilarious!

Seriously! Look at that smile...PRECIOUS;)

She LOVES remotes...just like her Uncle Dustin!;)

We ate at The Hot Spot for lunch, so Bry had to get her workout in...

Proud as a Peach

It has taken us about a year, but we have pretty much done away with all hand-me-downs, and we now have all of our OWN stuff! It has been so much fun. We just recently got this walnut coffee table, and our entertainment center, and we are so happy with the turn out! Now...end tables!;)

It is so funny how pets can bring so much personality into a home. Kezi is seriously the light of our life...as crazy as that sounds (YES, we probably need a child soon!) we would do ANYTHING for our little Kezi-boo! She is SPOILED ROTTEN! For example: She sleeps with us, we leave the T.V on for her when we leave so she doesn't get lonely, "I" dress her up, we talk to her like a little baby, we open the blinds so she can look out whether we are home or away, and the list goes on and on...Kezi definately has us wrapped around her little paw!;)

I mean, look at that face, how could you not just LOVE her!

This one too....;) Those eyes make me melt!

Beggin' for treats with Uncle Scruffy! ha ha ha

Sportin' the chest hair!;)

Well, I am all caught up! Hopefully we will get our camera battery and charger from the PALMS soon so we will have more pictures to post!

It's Our....

2010-03-10T09:02:00.000-08:00

3 Year Anniversary...

It will never cease to amaze me how fast time flies! The past 7 years that Dustin and I have spent together have been absolutely amazing, and I can truly say that I do not know how I got this lucky! Dustin does SO much for me, and I want to let everyone know how much I appreciate him. Dustin is so selfless, and I admire him so much for that!

This year, we kept our tradition alive, and spent our 3 year anniversary in...

VEGAS!!!

We enjoyed our time gambling, eating, touring a few newer places we had not seen yet, tanning, going to two movies: Green zone, and Shutter Island, both highly recommended, and seeing The Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil....simply... AMAZING!

We went down early and spent our first night in Mesquite;)

My handsome hubby;)

Our first day in Vegas we decided to go see the new hotel and casino ARIA, and the recently finished City Center!

ARIA

This cute little diner is called SWEET CHILL. It has the BEST ice cream!

I got my beloved "Turtle" ice cream, and Dust got "Cookies n Cream"

These flowers were made of white, milk, and dark chocolate! VERY impressive!

Some fun things to see at City Center:

We had 2nd row seating at LOVE, and I am here to tell you that is show is a MUST see!!! Everything they do is so perfect, right down to their make-up! I loved it! This was our 3rd Cirque show, and still ...UNBELIEVABLE! I liked the Beatles' songs before, but I left a true fan!!!

Our last day was spent tanning, gambling, & enjoying our 2 movies! Awww...a little R&R never felt better!!!

Cha-Ching!

Me doing what I do best....EATING!;)

I look forward to many, many more anniversaries with my sweet hubby! Wherever our lives may lead us, I am happy to know that it will be with Dustin by my side! Happy 3 year Anniversary babe! I LOVE YOU!