Jennifer Karyn

Em & Jake

2011-12-17T14:49:00.001-07:00

Em and Jake and the kids stopped on their way to Montana. It was fun to h e them for the night! Jake,Kev and Jeff went skiing/snowboarding during the day and Em, me and the kids went to the mall, the Bean Museum and to lunch. It was so fun to see them since we won't see them when we go home for Christmas.

SCARVES!!

2011-12-15T07:57:00.001-07:00

For Christmas I decided to make the women in my office some scarves. It was a fun project.

Christmas party for adults

2011-12-11T13:15:00.001-07:00

Last night we had a Christmas party for the adults. We went to eat at La Jolla Groves and then did a little bit of mini bowling at the Provo Beach Resort. After thy we went to Shawn and Amanda's for a movie. It was a really fun night to spend with the fam!!

Sorry I'm not sure how to post pictures in the order I want them from my phone

Where does it all come from???

2011-11-29T17:27:00.001-07:00

I mean seriously I've been blowing my nose non stop since yesterday.

I know this is info you really care to know.

Thanksgiving

2011-11-25T07:10:00.001-07:00

While I am waiting in line for the black Friday sale at the 26.2 running store I thought I'd upload a few pictures from turkey day. It was a great day spent with all the family. We ate lots of food, some played a little outside, new iPhoners played with phones and apps and we ended the night watching a movie in our apartment. We set a record for the number of people in the smallest space, I'm sure of it. It was a great day! And now IT'S CHRISTMAS!!

Crafty Saturday

2011-11-12T16:56:00.001-07:00

This was my activity today. It was a lot of fun to do and cost a total of $7. The frames are from Ikea and the maps I got free from AAA. I just needed a piece of scrapbook paper and patience. I love my new addition. California is still the best though.

My husband rocks

2011-11-10T10:10:00.001-07:00

He loves studying so much....

Award

2011-11-09T15:16:00.001-07:00

I am do proud of Jeffrey and this award he got for his job. He is such a hard worker not to mention so dang cute. Also that dessert was amazing

Miss Marley

2011-10-26T12:44:00.002-06:00

Her hair is messy...she just woke up from a nap. But she is still beautiful

And then I got this picture...

Tiffany Scarf

2011-10-11T09:38:00.003-06:00

On the drive home to Roseville I worked on a scarf for Megan. I also didn't have a place holder so I used my ring. I think I will call this scarf the Tiffany Scarf : Here is Jeffrey modeling the scarf. He looks so good in it doesn't he?

Home

2011-09-21T15:28:00.002-06:00

I can't wait to go home in 2.5 weeks. Some days I just really miss Roseville and the people there.

Summer will be over before we know it.

2011-09-09T17:19:00.005-06:00

Uncle Mike cuddled up to Jeffrey. I didn't catch it originally so he reenacted it. I think the reenactment was even more funny.

On Labor day Uncle Mike came boating with us. Unfortunately the weather wasn't too great, but we all had fun anyways

Here is Kev wakeboarding. At least someone is willing to wakeboard when it's choppy water :)

Here is Jeff surfing. He's trying to get as good as me. Good luck Honey.

This picture cracks me up. Jeff was working on his sister's big Expedition and it was so tall he couldn't get to the part without squatting on the bumper. I'll forever be grateful for a handy husband!!

Etsy

2011-09-07T10:02:00.003-06:00

So I decided to try selling some things on Etsy. We'll see if anyone bites...

I just need Tara's nice camera to take pictures of my stuff....Camera phones don't take that great of pictures. Dang you Iowa!

http://etsy.com/shop/jenniferkaryn

Knitting

2011-08-30T22:03:00.002-06:00

I thought I would just post a few pictures of a couple recent knitting projects. Any blog followers have see these booties before. I made some for Mel's baby. Here are some I made for Katie's baby, Viviann. It's amazing because these booties are sooo tiny, and you can tell they're a little big on her. Cute little feet!

I've been wanting a cowl or Infinity Scarf so I figured if I didn't start now I wouldn't have one by the time it actually got cold. I found this pattern and it's a copy of a Gap cowl. I love it and it's the only reason I'm excited for cold. Not the cold itself, just the cute clothes & accessories :) I've got a few other projects started so stay tuned :)

An Anniversary

2011-07-12T09:37:00.003-06:00

So yesterday we celebrated our 2nd anniversary. It was a great day and I loved spending the time with Jeffrey. I came home from work to get these awesome flowers :)We went to La Jolla Groves (highly recommend)
And we finished the night be watching this guy win the Home Run Derby :) We just like to encorperate a lot of baseball into big moments of our marriage haha! It was a great evening.

2 Years!

2011-07-11T10:53:00.002-06:00

Happy Anniversary Jeffrey!! It's been a wonderful 2 years. It amazes me how marriage keeps getting better and better the longer we are together. I'm excited for many more years to come.

I love you! I love wedding pictures. Every time I look there are different ones I love.

They're Comin' to America...TODAY!

2011-07-06T19:59:00.009-06:00

I know the Neil Diamond reference in the title seems a little strange but I mean it's seriously one of the best songs for 4th of July. We started it of Friday morning by going and seeing the hot air balloons! It was so much fun. Here is my very photogenic husband :) Oddly enough I think this is a cute picture of him :)

Saturday we went to our friend's wedding at the Oquirrh Mountain Temple. It is a beautiful temple and it was a very nice wedding. We had to put our sun glasses on before pictures so Jeff wasn't squinting haha.

Our friends David and Kelci

We got the most awesome surprise after the reception...Mel and Chris were on their way to UTAH!! It was so exciting. We had an awesome weekend full of fun and sun. I love those kids so much!!

Here is Brody at Bridal Veil Falls. The cold water doesn't phase him at all!

Dannon, on the other hand didn't care for the cold water as much.

Chris must have been telling a gross story by the look on my face. But at least in this picture we can see Marley and Cali :)

Melanie and I really made ourselves absolutely beautiful everyday aha.

We went boating and the kids all got on the tube and they loved it. I was so glad they all got a turn before the weather turned bad.

Dannon was cold of course and also sitting by his buddy.

I love this picture. Cali just looks so happily asleep. She is so adorable and she did so good getting ran around to all the different places!

Olivia, McKade & Marley playing on the 4th

Melanie will be updating her blog very shortly right mel, right??? And she has pictures that are of the days and adventures I missed. So make sure you follow up with her blog :)

Today when they left I came home from lunch and Brody wrote us the cutest thank you note. It'll probably be on my fridge for a long time. All of their kids are so sweet.

Crazy

2011-07-06T09:27:00.003-06:00

That is Utah weather for you.

Last night we went and watched an awesome storm at the Y Mountain with Mel, Chris and the kids...oh that's right, they were here. Stay tuned for an awesome post of our AWESOME weekend!! hopefully Mel will have more pictures to contribute since I basically have none ...hint hint :)

Happy Summer Solstice Day

2011-06-21T21:33:00.001-06:00

We couldn't think of a better way to spend the longest day of the year.

Odds and Ins

2011-06-20T11:10:00.003-06:00

Well this is kinda a boring post, just thought I'd share RANDOM things that I've been up to post-marathon. I haven't ran once yet (I plan to this week, we'll see how that goes). Instead I've been up to other fun things that I've been wanting to do for sometime. Example: I made this delicious Strawberry Cream Puff Cake and updated Mel's and my cooking blog I also gave myself a long awaited pedicure. That's right. I'm gross. I didn't ever want to soften up my feet for fear of getting blisters. So after the race I worked on my feet a bit and took off calluses and popped blisters. Yes, I believe my feet were still swollen in this picture. It was the day after the race.
A couple of days later I lost a toenail. So much for that pedicure. At least my feet aren't hurting anymore!! I copied someone's blog and made my own painting. I'm quite fond of it and it's art-deco feel. Although that's not what I was going for, and it didn't turn out as I imagined, I still think it was very fun to do and a fun, bright painting for our humble abode. The total cost: $25. Not too shabby for a fun Saturday activity.

I've also been a little too obsessed with Pinterest.com

On this site I kept seeing pictures of people with "waterfall braids" or "cascading braids" So I tried it on myself and I might be a little obsessed with it. I think its pretty fun.

We went wake-surfing last week. I thought I was feeling pretty healed up and felt fine, but as soon as I was up on the board I kept getting charlie horses everywhere! I don't think my muscles were completely healed, and I still feel a little stiff, but I think I'm good to go for another boating trip this week :)

We've also done some BBQ's with friends and played sand volleyball at night. Some of my favorite summer activities! SUMMER FINALLY ARRIVED!! (minus Sunday)

Anyways, nothing too exciting, but that's the life of Jenn!

26.2

2011-06-12T15:17:00.004-06:00

Jeffrey and I ran the Utah Valley Marathon yesterday. It was Jeff's third marathon and my first. Jeffrey did really well finishing at 3:49. He amazes me with his running ability. I am proud of him and how well he did. In the picture below he's the man dressed in white coming to the finish line.

There he goes skipping across the finish line. He told me he ended up beating those people in front of him :)

Don't judge me. I know I look horrible in this picture. Let's just say after 26 miles I wasn't feeling the best. But I DID IT!!

Finally sitting down. I didn't know it was possible for every inch of me to hurt like it did!

I was very proud to finish my first...and probably last marathon. At this point I wasn't even excited. I just wanted to go shower and lay down. The excitement of my achievement has since hit and I'm definitely proud of myself...am I allowed to say that? I didn't do as well as I had hoped to do, but I'm proud that I finished and reached my goal I've had planned for a year and half.

After it all yesterday I think I decided to stick to half marathons. They are the perfect length for a race, but at least I can say I've done one marathon.

Thank you to everyone that read this and listened to me brag a little bit. :)

Memorial Day Weekend!!

2011-06-01T13:12:00.008-06:00

Well Memorial Day weekend in CA was WONDERFUL. We had so much fun in everything that we did!

Mel, Marley, Mom and I went to the mall and Sam's. Marley wore these glasses almost the whole time.

She picked out this hat at H&M. Isn't she so stylin in her hat and glasses :)

We were able to visit Gage at the hospital a couple of times. It was great to see him doing pretty good!

Gage really loves Grandma!

Cali came for a shopping trip. Isn't she so beautiful! I can't believe how much she's grown since she was born (obviously). She is so smiley and fun! Plus she sucks her thumb, which is adorable.

Me & my buddy.

Brody playing catch.

Matty playing catch

Mom & Elizabeth

It was hard to get a picture of him that he wouldn't hide his face...so this is the best I could get.

hangin out with Bennett!

Jeff and his buddy Dannon.

These little girls are adorable together!

Dannon & his Buddy playing catch.

This isn't a great picture but the sky looks amazing. But that's me and the kids hanging out in the fort.

Jeff and Dannon hiking. I love how much Dannon loves Jeff.

The kids (and Chris) on the hike.

The whole gang (well everyone that came on the hike)

Hidden Falls

It was pretty chilly and rained a bit, but the kids were in heaven. Elizabeth did NOT want to get out of the freezing water.

Mel & Mom

Em & Libby

Pops & Cali

The kids loved playing with tadpoles...and Jeff.

She can be a girly girl, but she also knows how to get down and dirty and play with bugs and tadpoles. Love this girl.

Bradley with a tadpole!

Marley on her "Little Mermaid Rock"

I miss it already. This trip was so much fun. We also had a block party and played soft ball that I didn't get any pictures of. Maybe I'll be able to get my Mom's and post them. Good times!!

Welcome Home Pretty Lady.

2011-05-11T09:50:00.002-06:00

The boat is out and ready for some riding. I'm very anxious to get out on it. But first this weather needs to cooperate and GET WARM!! It's been raining for a few days and that's just not condusive to the lifestyle I want to live...beach bum isn't the right word...maybe lake bum??

Any ways...isn't she beautiful...well she's prettier with out the cover...oh well.

Running Running Running

2011-04-27T16:46:00.001-06:00

As many of my avid readers know (Mel), I'm running a marathon on June 11.

I'm getting pretty nervous about it.

I ran 15 miles last weekend and towards the end of the run I didn't know if I could take another step. It scares me to know the pressure that I have on me to complete 26.2.

This weekend I plan on attempting (and hopefully succeeding) at running 18 miles. If I can do that I will have more confidence knowing I would only have to muster out 6 more.

I'm really hoping race adreniline will help push me through.

I have shin splints right now. Running 4 miles last night killed my shins....running 15 last weekend didn't hurt them at all. What's up with that??

I have a few toenails that are waiting to fall off. I just wish they would. I think they're more painful just hanging there.

Anyways, I'm sorry this is just rambling and I'm sure no one wants to hear it.

Also, I wish I had better feet. I wish I could wear cool shoes like Nike Frees instead of my boring Ascis with ultra support for my old lady feet.

Anyways, wish me luck on Saturday have me in your prayers as I shoot for 18....or just have me in your prayers until June 11.

Fedora

2011-04-21T12:25:00.006-06:00

Not only do I love the word, I love a lot of the hats. I think I've finally concluded that my hair is long enough to pull one of these off. At least I keep telling myself that. I wish we had an H&M in Utah. I'm only hoping Mom can find it at hers, and send it back to UT with Kev.

It's sad how happy I get over these things....Like my new Burberry purse.....

Nuff Said.

The Mayor's Blog

2011-04-12T08:50:00.002-06:00

Jeff and I went to this concert on Saturday and Jimmer was there as well.

Mayor John Curtis wrote about it.

I love the Provo Mayor's blog.

I know I need to update, but you can read that post on his blog and that's an update of something we did. Only we didn't get pictures with Jimmer or Sugar Ray. :(

Oh, 2011, you've been good so far.

2011-02-18T15:47:00.004-07:00

I know I haven't updated my blog in awhile besides random video clips and random thoughts that come into my mind. I feel a little disconnected lately, I'm not sure why. But I'm sitting on my couch on my Friday off and I figured a lot has gone on lately and I figured I'd write it all down, and if no one reads this, at least I've semi-documented my life since I'm so bad at journal writing (yes, Mel, I know I have a ldsjournal account, thank you.)

In January I was lucky enough to go home for a week and meet my beautiful new niece Cali. I fell in love with her right away, and I am so lucky to be there. I have been at all 4 of Mel's kid's births and I hope to not miss any more that come. It's an amazing experience to see a baby be born, especially one that beautiful :) I had fun seeing lots of friends (shout out to blog stalker, Dana) and catching up with lots of family. Like most of the family while I was there, I got the flu. But at least I got to share that magical moment with so many people. I'm just grateful none of Mel's kids vomited while in my sole care.

Before I went to California I interviewed for a position to work for the Provo City Council. I applied on a whim, and more wishful thinking of bigger pay checks. As soon as I landed in California I found out that I got a second interview, and as soon as I was back in Utah I pretty much went straight to my second interview. Lo and behold I got offered the job, and of course, I accepted. I just finished my second week working for the Council and I am enjoying just about every minute. It can be stressful, and it is busy from the time I walk into the office until the time I walk out. But I am very happy there. I love that this job requires me to use my brain. I love that I am learning so much about the community and the people in it.

One of the most stressful things for me about my job is what to wear every morning. Eeek, I said it. Although I've been in "professional" jobs since I graduated college, never have I been in a job where what I wear is actually important. I actually have to look like a professional. So, it is something I have work on. And, shoot. I'll just have to start expanding my wardrobe.

I know I was blessed to get this job.

On February 12, I had a nephew be borned. Rachel, my sister-in-law, had her baby. She and Kevin named him Sawyer Douglas Worthen and he is absolutely adorable. I've invited myself over to her house once already to hold him, and I feel that I might be inviting myself over sometime soon.

Valentine's day was a good day. Jeff was a smart man and got me pretty flowers and See's candy. (which I'm having a hard time staying away from right now!) We stayed home together and made a delicious dinner. It was pork chops and mashed potatoes, broccoli and rolls. It was fun just making dinner with him and relaxing to a romantic movie. Haha. that's the funny part. We watched Cars. Jeff had never seen it and it just so happens we are both fans of animated movies.

No not anime

Jeff and I are also starting to train for a few races we have planned for this year. The first one is next month. We'll be running the Rex Lee Run again this year. We're both hoping to get some PRs. We've been playing with the idea of running the Provo City Half Marathon, and we are both running the Utah Valley Marathon. Its been fun for us running together and I think it's a fun thing we share.

Jeff had his golden birthday last month. We celebrated by going out to eat with some friends, and his present from me....running shoes. How exciting huh. I will be 25 in about a month, and I'll say it now...I'm getting old. I know that probably sounds silly, but I remember being young and thought women that were 25 were really old. So yes, I'm reaching that point...I mean my hair is even turning grey. Bleh. I'm already a little sad that I won't be in California for Melanie's birthday next month.

I hope I didn't bore you all with details of my life lately, and if I did, well I'm not sorry. haha! I hope you all enjoy the long weekend!!

It's Jimmer Time

2011-01-27T07:52:00.006-07:00

This poster is what I came home to last night! Isn't it great. Just in time for the big game against SDSU! Thank goodness we spanked them. Anyways, it was a fun night and a fun game. I decided it didn't matter that I didn't go running yesterday because my heart was pumping so hard for the whole game that I pretty much got my cardio in. Anyways, enjoy the Jimmer highlight reel too.

AT LAST!

2011-01-26T16:07:00.001-07:00

That's right.

2011-01-25T09:48:00.003-07:00

I can't wait for it to come out on redbox. Because we all know there's no way I'm paying more than $1 to see it. Plus I can't hide the fact that his songs are great to run to :)
Or that, in fact, I am a teeny-bopper

Cali

2011-01-14T14:44:00.003-07:00

I miss my new neice Cali. She is so beautiful. Since Mel hasn't posted pictures yet I figured I would give you all preview of the princess.

I'm Ready!!

2011-01-05T11:04:00.005-07:00

I'm so ready for Mel's baby, Brie to come. I am sooo excited to meet her and play with her for a few days. Hopefully Mel decides to go into labor on her own, but either way it's looking like I'll be able to be there when Brie makes her grand entrance into the world, and I can't hardly wait! I leave for the airport at 3am tomorrow morning and i'll be in Roseville by 10! WOW I can't wait!
Meanwhile, feast your eyes on the awesome kicks Brie will be sporting...made by yours truely.

5 Days Off...

2010-12-14T09:16:00.002-07:00

So I had some holiday time that I was about to loose so last minute I got a 5 day weekend. It was wonderful and relaxing. A little too relaxing actually. I'm disappointed now as I think of all the things I could have gotten accomplished but didn't. Oh well. I enjoyed it and did a lot of shopping and I cleaned a little bit ...and I knitted A LOT. My hands are a little sore from all the knitting.

I bet all you pregnant women are wishing you were having a girl. Too bad Mel is the only one of my 8 friends having a girl. So her baby gets spoiled with this beanie!

(in this picture it's on my hand...my mom thought it was on my foot) I also knitted a second pair of slippers. These are MUCH sturdier than the first pair and I think turned out pretty dang good!

Kevin Bacon

2010-12-08T13:24:00.002-07:00

Every time I watch this commercial I think I laugh harder and harder as I notice all the little things in his house that relates to Kevin Bacon. I don't know why, but I really love this commercial. Enjoy.

Thanksgiving Odds 'n' Ends

2010-11-29T08:55:00.007-07:00

Thanksgiving in Roseville was a lot of fun. It was soooo fun to be with all the family and grandparents, etc. It was very exciting that Gage was feeling well and was SO much fun for me to play with. It seems that every time we come to visit he isnt' feeling well or he's in the hopsital. So needless to say I loved my time with that happy little boy. We also slept at Mel & Chris' house which was wonderful and I got LOTS of time with their kids. I was in heaven. It was a wonderful trip home, especially because it was longer than we are normally able to go home for. I just can't believe that the next time I see Mel she'll be in labor or with a new baby! So crazy. I can only hope she holds out until January, although she looks like she could have the baby any day.

Before we made the trek home I started on these slippers for Mel. They didn't turn out quite as sturdy as I had hoped, but they gave me hope I guess you could say. I knitted another slipper on the way back to Utah and it actually turned out a lot better than the ones I gave Mel. Sorry you got the first pair sister. The drive to Roseville was...cold. And icy. As you can read the thermometer below... This was taken outside of Elko. Lucky for us when the sun came out the roads were less icy and we could actually go the speed limit. Over Donner pass we were at a dead stop TWICE for over an hour each time. As you can see the roads are pretty clear, so we still have no idea why we were at a dead stand still. But at least we could get out and stretch our legs and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Thanksgiving morning I ran the Race to Feed the Hungry with my oldest brother, Jake. He ran the 10k and I ran the 5k. I'm proud to say I beat my first time by 6 minutes. Yes, my first time wasn't that great, but this time was pretty good. I'm proud of it. I ran it in 26:15. But I know I can do better than that. Being that I was running with about 30k people, it was hard to manuever. Sometimes I'd find myself at a dead stop. So I can't wait for the 5k race in March. Hopefully I'll get a better PR.

Yes I know my eyes are closed, but this is me (in the blue jacket) crossing the finish line :) The finish line...I think Jeff took this before anyone actually finished

Jake and I after the race
The drive home from Roseville was long as well, we got to see beautiful snow in the Sierras though!This was our view the last two hours of the drive. UGLY!!!I'm hoping Mel will post more pictures of Thanksgiving, since I didn't have my camera, but it was all a blast!! Love thanksgiving!!!

My Country

2010-11-17T11:23:00.002-07:00

I am grateful for my country. I'm grateful for the freedoms we enjoy. I'm especially grateful for the freedom of religion and the ability to worship as we choose. One of my favorite things to study in college was the founding fathers of the United States and how it all led up to the restoration of the gospel. It is a miracle how it all worked and seeing the Lord's hand in it all. A fabulous book to read is Moroni: Ancient Prophet Modern Modern Messenger. Anyways, I love how it tells about Moroni and how he is the watch over the United States. Our country is a blessed one, and many wonderful things have occured. I'm grateful for the founding fathers and their faith in the Lord.

Family

2010-11-16T12:39:00.006-07:00

To keep in the spirit of thankfulness...

I'm grateful for my wonderful family. I don't know why I was so blessed to be surrounded by the people I am, but I'm grateful for it. I'm grateful for the many examples in my family, and the many great relationships. Before I got married I was blessed with an awesome brother in law and 2 sister in laws. All of which I am grateful for for the parents they are to my neices and nephews and for the spouses they are to my siblings. Since being married I feel equally blessed with the family I married into. I'm grateful for the relationship I have built with all of my inlaws.

Most importantly I'm grateful for my wonderful husband. I'm grateful for the love we share and how much fun we have together :) Married life is awesome. Unforutunatly Kev is not in this picture because he was on his mission, and we don't have a family picture since he's been home. But I'm just as grateful for him too :)My inlaws. They are all so awesome. Unfortunatly their kids weren't at our wedding, but we were lucky to have all the siblings & spouses there! Marrying into the Worthen family has been wonderful, and if it weren't for them I think life in Utah could be rough. I'm grateful for the way I was raised, and that I was raised with parents strong in the gospel. One of the things I'm most grateful to my parents for is my 3 adopted brothers (well and of course my other 5 siblings). I look up to my parents for their selflessness and the life they are giving these boys. I love my brothers very much and can't imagine our family with out them. They are lucky to have our family, especially our parents. And we are so very lucky to have themI'm grateful for my sisters. I wish I had a picture with Meggie and Em in it too. They are my sisters too and I love them very much. I don't know how girls grow up with out sisters...It would be a rough life. I'm grateful for my best friend....(not only because of her awesome kids either)

Thankfulness

2010-11-15T08:50:00.005-07:00

Tis the season of thankfulness.
This weekend I've been thinking of all the many things I'm thankful for.
I'm grateful for the temple.
I'm grateful for the blessings it brings to my life. I'm grateful for the covenants I've made with my Heavenly Father and with my husband. I'm grateful for the ordinances that are performed so that families are forever.

Giveaway

2010-11-10T14:25:00.001-07:00

Hey you guys should go to his link and enter the giveaway. Or don't, I want to win. This is the salon I go to and it is GREAT! Everyone should go there.

Tonight

2010-11-05T12:42:00.002-06:00

Tonight we're going to this film. Check it out.
Be jealous.
I'm dang excited.
Wish us luck in winning gear too ;)

I WON!!

2010-11-02T13:23:00.001-06:00

I just won a 90 day membership to 24-hour Fitness off the Dr. Oz website!!
I love winning things. I'm really excited. This will come in handy over the winter when it's too icy/snowy/cold to run outside :D
I LOVE GIVEAWAYS
Especially when I win.

Welcome Winter

2010-10-27T08:08:00.003-06:00

Sorry the pictures are so dark, I leave for work when it's still pretty dark...at least now that it's WINTER. Yeah, I have to admit I got a little smile when I saw the snow. It is beautiful. And the first snow of the winter always kind of excites me.

I'm not saying I like driving in the snow or being cold, but I can appreciate it's beauty...at least at first....until it gets old.

As you can see the boat is still out...I guess it's time to put the boat away!! DANG!

Vintage Pyrex

2010-10-14T14:56:00.000-06:00

I got these bowls for a steal at the Antique Mall in Springville. I'm thrilled about my "Vintage Pyrex" steal. I can't wait to find more. I know the three don't all go together, but I sure love them and got a great deal, so you know, I HAD to buy them. There was no way around it. Anyways, I can't wait to make something to put in my new bowls :)

Sensitive subject

2010-10-08T12:34:00.007-06:00

I know this is a sensitive subject.

I know ElderPacker's talk has raised a lot of heat.
Read this article
http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=12744069
It's scary to me in all honesty. I love and admire ElderPacker and have 100% faith in what he said is from God.
It's just scary to me. It's scary because Activists are trying to tell us what we believe is false. They are belittling our beliefs and asking Elder Packer to retract his statement???
What is that all about???
I like how they say the statements by Elder Packer were "scientifically and factually inaccurate..." It's apparent they don't know what faith is about. It's not about scientifically proven facts. It's about faith in God and the leaders of the church and the inspiration they receive directly from Him. I know the gift of revelation is a very real and powerful thing that I am very grateful for. I know that we are to love and respect everyone. I just hope that we may get the same respect for our beliefs as well.

I'm sorry, I just needed to vent a little.
I have no idea who will read this...but I'll definitely moderate any comments. No haters.

Jeff & Dustin's 2nd Marathon

2010-09-12T14:59:00.003-06:00

We went down to Huntington, UT yesterday so Jeff and Dustin could run their second marathon. They both did great and it was a lot of fun to see them accomplish this again. They ran through the San Rafael Swell. It was beautiful and made me realize how much I love Utah desert and the cool things you can see.

This picture is of Jeff getting off the bus. Because the road they ran on was a dirt road, we couldn't be there to see them pass the finish line because they didn't want the dust in the runners faces. So here is Jeff after he finished. Doesn't he look happy?!

Such a proud wife :)

After Jeff finished we waited for a few hours then we decided that since there was only 145 runners and a lot of them were done, we decided to go down the canyon and see some cool things...as well as cheer Dustin across the finish line!

Below is a dinosaur footprint. I thought it was so awesome to see! I love stuff like this!!

We also stopped to see some pictogryphs and some petroglyphs. They had faded a lot so I didn't get too many good pictures of them, but here is an example. it's so cool. I wish I knew what they were trying to portray in all of the pictures.

We drove past Dustin and Kellie decided to walk with him for a little bit

Close to finishing!

Another marathon completed!!

Yes, I can get sappy.

2010-09-01T11:55:00.007-06:00

My little brother went to this amazing restaurant in Salt Lake City last night.

It made me reminisce....

Jeffrey and I went to the Red Iguana for the first time when he took me to the airport to go home for Christmas...Christmas 2008. I remember being so nervous to have this really cute guy I barely knew take me to the airport. I don't remember much of what we talked about, but I remember having fun. I remember thinking that I really hoped I would see him once I got back to Utah.

After we ate at this AMAZING restaurant he took me to the airport. We said a bit of an awkward goodbye, only for me to realize my flight had been delayed about 3 hours. I texted him telling him this thinking it was kind of funny. To my surprise he said he'd come back and hang out with me. We hung out at the airport for about 3 hours together. Not even the part that has the food and stores, we couldn't get there because of security. No, we hung out around the baggage claim and by the place people wait for passengers. Pretty un-glamorous. But I remember having so much fun with him. I liked him. He made me excited to come back to Utah.

Less than 7 months later we got married.

Cute story.

I love memories. Especially when the involve good food and great company :)

So Depressing

2010-08-23T18:41:00.002-06:00

We went to the dentist today. I had some cavities filled. I was really looking forward to getting a Dr. Pepper as a little reward for doing SO good at the dentist. I mean, I didn't even cry. Even though I wanted to ...over and over. Anyways....that Dr. Pepper. I went and bought one. Guess what happened? I CAN'T TASTE A THING!!! How did I not know this about numb mouths. I still thought I could TASTE the goodness. So not only can I not taste the refreshing wonderfulness, I can't even feel the bubbly amazingness.

My life is so rough.

jealousy.

2010-08-04T15:10:00.002-06:00

You see that picture??
DO YOU SEE THAT PICTURE??
That is where Mel, Mom and Christine spent the day.
Those poor souls.
Tick me off.
I miss Tahoe.
I miss my family.
I miss playing in Tahoe WITH my family.
Ugh. The nerve.

Dear Meeks Bay: I love you.

Dear Mom, Mel & Chris: I sure hope you went to every store to find me that "Keep Tahoe Blue" waterbottle I want. It's really the least you could do.

I Love Anniversaries

2010-08-01T21:52:00.017-06:00

Jeffrey and I had our first anniversary on July 11. We celebrated a couple of times, and it was great. It's been a great first year. If you didn't notice I really love him. After having my first anniversary I came to a conclusion that I really like anniversaries. I could really get used to them.

This is a table that Jeff made me for my anniversary gift. I've been wanting a half round table for this little spot in our apartment and he was able to make me a custom table, and I absolutely love it. Now I have one of my pots on top with some flowers in it and I think it is an awesome touch to our little apartment.

Jeff and I went on a little hike to these water slides and they were so much fun! Can't wait to go again! They reminded me so much of Dinky Creek

I had to include a picture of Dinky Creek. SO our new found water slide isn't as beautiful, but seriously, doesn't this picture bring back some awesome memories!! I think we all need to take a trip back down to this little slice of heaven.
We took a trip to celebrate as well.

The first night we cut up our drive and stayed in Las Vegas. It was fun, we've done it a few times. This time we stayed at the Flamingo, which, surprisingly was a nice hotel! I had no idea they had a whole flamingo habitat in the back of the hotel and a water park! Unfortunatly they close the water park at 5PM so we didn't get to enjoy it.
The fountains.
The gardens

The fire.
After Las Vegas we got up early in the morning and drove to Long Beach. We met up with Uncle Mike and he took us Kayaking around the bay and around the island. It was so much fun. It is really beautiful down there! I was sad not to get any pictures doing that, but I was pretty soaked by the time we were done so it's a good thing I didn't take my camera. Afterwards Uncle Mike was so nice to take us out to a really great Mexican restaraunt. It was great to spend time with him and it was really fun!

That night we drove down to our hotel in Carlsbad.

In the morning we woke up and went to SEA WORLD!!!!

***Warning, LOTS of pictures of animals***
We Love Shamu
Little Mermain Eels.

Shark Exhibit

Flamingo Exhibit: He's a natural

Star Fish!

Acrobat show. Pretty cool!

I wanted this guy for a pet. Little turtle.
We got to pet these Sting Rays. They felt really cool. I didn't put the pictures up of us petting them though :(
This guy loved the attention he got at the window.
Oh did I mention we loved Shamu?? This is our private show.

The night show was awesome. We waited about an hour in line at the gate so we could get good seats. How good were our seats you ask? AMAZING. We got front row seats right at Shamu's little ledge he'd jump onto. We got a little wet, but not as wet as I thought I would. Shamu is a stud. Best whale performer ever.

The next day we woke up and rented a surf board to go surfing around Carlsbad. As you can tell it was really overcast. I was a baby and didn't get in the water at all. But Jeffrey here was a pro at surfing. He doesn't mind the cold as much!
After surfing we went and tried to see some tide pools. However there really wasn't a low tide that day and they were never really revealed. It was still fun walking around the beach and hunting in the tide pools. Jeff found a few little crabs and other critters.

That night we walked down to the beach from our hotel and walked around downtown Carlsbad we also ate dinner down by the beach. It was a nice evening.

I already miss this trip. It was so much fun and so great to have Jeff all to myself for five days.

Some more recent updates: I've sort of learned out to wake surf...sort of...I'm starting to get the hang of it and I LOVE IT.

Jeff is basically a pro at surfing though. Check this out, he did the 360, just wasn't able to catch the wave again. Someday maybe I can be this good...

Also, I can jump...a little...if you look really closely....

If you got this far in the post congratulations. It was long. Hope it wasn't too painful. But I just wanted to share our good times with you.

Happy 4th of July WEEKEND!

2010-07-04T17:31:00.011-06:00

Jeff and I had a great 4th of July weekend! On Saturday we did nothing but play. We woke up in the morning and went to the fair on Center Street and walked around the shops. The weather was beautiful and it was fun. After that Jeff talked me into going golfing. He didn't really have to try. It sounded like a fun time with him. I don't think I would have wanted to go if anyone else was coming, but it was fun having him teach me how to golf, and it was fun spending time together in the nice weather! Here are a couple videos of me golfing. Jeff said I had to put the bad one on if I put the good one on. Don't laugh too hard.

Admit it. By the end I looked like a pro. I could hit it on the first time on the last few holes :)

But Jeff on the other hand...he's basically a pro, or at least looks like one
After golfing we went and went bowling where my sister-in-law Bobbi and my brother Kevin work. After that we went with a bunch of friends to Brick Oven (yum. seriously. yum) and then we went to see Carrie Underwood at the Stadium of Fire. I didn't feel the need to take pictures. I am not the hugest fan. But my favorite part was when the jets flew over head and then the fireworks. That was fun.

Sunday we had a BBQ with all the family, and lit off fireworks in the front yard. It was fun with good food!

Monday morning the celebration contiuned. Since it is Provo, it's a weekend long event :) Jeffrey and Dustin ran a 5k. Jeff did really well (of course).
I don't know why we posed in front of this funky house, but the finish line is in front of us. We didn't turn around for whatever reason. But still. He's great. So handsome. Dustin & Jeffrey

Dustin has lost over 100 pounds. Doesn't he look great!
The hot air balloons took off while the race was going, but this one is my favorite one I see every year!
Kathy, my mother-in-law was in the parade holding the Boy Scouts of America balloon
And Dustin got to be in the parade with the Maakoa group. Lucky lucky.
Fun weekend! I LOVE SUMMER TIME!

LAKE POWELL!!!!

2010-07-01T08:11:00.010-06:00

So last week we went to Lake Powell with Jeff's whole family. It was pretty dang fun and the lake is BEAUTIFUL!! I would love to go again and explore some more.

Be prepared for a lot of pictures of rocks, and a lot of pictures period.

Unfortunatly I haven't seen my mother-in-law or sister-in-law much to get their pictures, so there aren't a whole lot of Jeff and I. I'm sure both of them also got better pictures than I did, but oh well. Maybe if I get their pictures I'll do another post.

These first two pictures are views from our hotel. Looks like a desert lake huh! haha. It was great. The hotel was nice and we were lucky to have someone that hooked us up! We really appreciated it!
I forgot to take out my camera on the first day, but this is Bobbi and McKade on the second day riding on the boat.
We didn't mess around long before we got right to wake boarding :)

My handsome husband:

That's right, we're married.
Oh and this is me on the not-so-glassy water. It's ok, I got a few little jumps in! No pictures of course, just take my word for it...
After a crash I'm sure ...you know after my huge 360 I landed....
Oh yeah, that's right, he's my husband.
Jase & Ashlyn
An awesome arch
Sean took us down this channel that kept getting smaller and smaller!! It was awesome, but we had to use the men as bumpers so our boat wouldn't hit the rocks.

After we finally got to where the channel stopped, we got out and played around. Here is a little cove that Rachel is standing in.
Oh and the boys still tying up the boats.
Amanda & Olivia
Jeff at the very end of the channel, wanting to see how deep the water goes... I think he touched the bottom and it was maybe 7 feet deep if I'm remembering right. Check out the boats with the tubes as bumpers and stuff!

More exploring. If you walked a little ways, there was a little pool of water, seen here, then we continued walking to find more cool stuff.
Lindsey, Jase, Brenden, Tylee & Garrett
Jeff climbing up a rock
Olivia, McKade, Amanda & Kathy

We found this hole in the rock, so Sean decided to jump in...He joined a couple of lizzards down there.
Jeff, Bob, Bobbi & Kevin standing around the hole Sean is stuck in... He was trying to get out by himself but the rocks were too slick
Jeff & Kevin helping him get out.
He made it. He forgot the lizzards in the hole though.
Rachel & Kevin
Pretty rocks

Jeff driving with Bob....on the look out???
If you look close you can see petroglyphs. Click on the picture so it enlarges and you can see them better. I guess some indians used to live up on that perch. I forget how many little houses there were, but there were quite a few! Some of them you climbed down a latter, they had built their homes into the rock. Seemed like a pretty secure place to live, anyone that comes by they could just attack! I'm sure many kids died falling off the cliff though! I was so nervous the whole time we were up there because the kids were up there. I couldn't take pictures up there because we had to swim to the trail after parking the boat. So sorry if what I'm saying doesn't make sense!
This is a little cave- like thing we hung out in to get out of the sun for a few minutes. It was beautiful.

The other boat, mostly full of kids, but left to right:

Ashlyn, Tylee, Sean, Amanda, Olivia, Brenden & Garrett More pretty rocks

Jeff & Kevin jumping off some rocks, don't worry, I was cool too and jumped off.
On the way home we drove through Capital Reef. Here is Jeffrey and I at the visitors center. Yes, I know I look beautiful. That's me tired after being on the lake for 4 days, and no make up and a little sun burnt :)

More petroglyphs. Click on this picture too. There were quite a few petroglyphs in Capital Reef!
More petroglyphs!
This deer was seirously not afraid of humans at all. We were RIGHT next to it and it could care less. It was too busy finding more grass to eat!

That was our trip!!! It is a beautiful place for sure!! Hopefully I can find some more, better pictures to post up!

Lake Powell-- Stay Tuned

2010-06-25T13:17:00.001-06:00

I know you are so anxious to see pictures... They're coming...

I just need to collect some pictures from Rachel my sister-in-law and Kathy my mother-in-law. So keep checking back. There will be some pretty cool pictures I dare-say.

Running Day!!

2010-06-14T09:20:00.008-06:00

I know people hate brag-posts.
So if that's you...just stop reading now.
Because I want to brag.
I accomplished one of my biggest goals I've set for myself. And I'm pretty dang proud.
I ran a half marathon on Saturday and my finishing time was 2:11:46
I don't know if I had a ton of adrenaline or what, but I enjoyed the whole race. I never felt like I ran out of steam, and my body didn't start hurting until I stopped running. It was such a great feeling. I felt very lucky to have all the Worthen side of the family and Tara at the finish line to share this with me.
Now to brag about my amazing husband. He finished the marathon in 3:14:09. He did amazing! Not only did he finish his race in an incredible time, after he was done, and after we watched Kevin and Rachel run their 5k I drove him back to his friend Dustin who had about 6 more miles to finish. That's right, Jeff ran ANOTHER 6 miles with Dustin after running a marathon. He is such a good friend. I was about in tears when I saw them come across the finish line. So many great accomplishments for everyone that day.
Here are a few pictures to highlight the experience :)

My mother in law, Kathy, drove down University Ave and took some pictures of Amanda and I. Here we both are, with lovely faces...and our eyes closed haha.

I know it looks like that man is walking as fast as I'm running, but I swear, I'm passing himComing across the finish line!!
Amanda and I after we finished and got our Finisher's Medal. I have to say, I was VERY excited to get that medal
Jeffrey, finishing. Looking like he's enjoying the cheering from his fan club!

The happy couple.
Amanda, Me & Jeffrey
After running 6 miles with Dustin, that is 32.2 miles of pain on his face :)
Dustin SPRINTING to the finish line!!
Best friends
Our photo Op

Here is a link to the professional pictures they took:
brightroom event photography

What Think Ye?

2010-05-19T13:42:00.004-06:00

I received a text from Megan telling me that she thinks my handsome husband looks like Daniel Meade from "Ugly Betty"

What do you think?

Cars and Babies

2010-05-19T09:08:00.004-06:00

As most of you know, Jeffrey and I have been on the hunt for a new car. The Audi was seeing the last of it's days and just needed more work and money than we were wanting to put into it. Since I'm Jenn, I've been extremely homesick as normal and so this pushed the issue a little more. Without a really reliable car, neither of us wanted to make the drive across the beautiful Nevada desert. So, behold, our new (and slightly used :)car:

You know what this means, you guessed it! We're coming home for Memorial Day weekend!! I'm pretty dang excited about that!

These are a little late, but a couple of weeks ago, Laura was out here visiting. We were lucky because it happened to be the day before Katie moved out of the state for the summer. So I took off work early, we all got some lunch, then we took their babies to the park and enjoyed the sun and warmth. It was so much fun to be with such good friends. I miss them already!

The adorable Liam And Cutie Hazel!
It was such a fun few hours to spend with two of my best friends!

Bummer...

2010-05-07T08:49:00.004-06:00

We didn't draw out for the St. George Marathon.
Mel asked for clarification... They selected the runners by lottery. We didn't get picked to run.
Sad day.
I am a little bummed. I was looking forward to it. I guess we have to find some other marathon to run now.
I'm still running my half marathon in 5 weeks. I'm really looking forward to that. I feel like I'm almost ready for it!!
Wish me luck!

Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad!!

2010-04-29T11:20:00.003-06:00

You've made it half way to eternity :)
Hope you have a great day in Squaw Valley!
I love you both very much.
And I've always been grateful to know your love for each other.
This is my favorite picture of them!
Thank you for your great examples!

My Rings

2010-04-28T07:00:00.003-06:00

I always have two rings on my fingers. The first ring has some sentimental value to it. My dad found it while snorkling at Lake Tahoe probably 4 or 5 years ago. For some reason I was the lucky one that snagged it. It's nothing that cool, but the fact that my dad gave it to me and it was found in LAKE TAHOE means a lot to me. My second ring is my wedding ring. I got it a year ago today. Jeff proposed April 28, 2009. It was an awesome day I have been thinking about a lot lately since it's that season again.
It's been an awesome year and a half being with Jeff, and it just keeps getting better.

I still find myself looking at my ring glitter in the sunlight.
The newness still hasn't worn off and I hope it never does.

Snow in the Morning, Boating in the Evening

2010-04-23T09:35:00.004-06:00

Well I guess summer is here...or around the corner. We took the boat out for the first time last night. It was snowing yesterday morning on my way to work, and by the end of the day I got a text from Jeff asking if I wanted to go boating haha. Here is Jeff WakeSurfing. He did pretty good, I'm excited to try it...yes I was too big of a wimp to get in the water. I was freezing just sitting on the boat...but I was a little jealous when they were in the water. And here is my brother - in -law Kevin WakeSurfing.
SIDENOTE: I was talking to my brother Kevin yesterday and apparently he didn't know I have a brother Jeff, Husband Jeff, brother Kevin, brother-in-law Kevin. He got a good laugh out of that.

After the boys were finished in the water Jeff got all dried off and put his sweats on. I think he was finally getting warm by the time we got to the dock. This ranger was waiting at the dock to make sure everything was ok with the boat. So when Jeff went to jump off the boat to get the car, he thought the dock was closer than it actually was and he fell in. It was pretty hilarious from my point of view it just looked like he walked off the boat into the water. Oh thanks for the great laugh Jeff :)
Last but certainly not least... I am officially registered for the St. George Marathon. I'm excited (scared out of my mind)
and a little nervous for it. I'm also running the Utah Valley half marathon on June 12th. I'm feeling pretty good about that one...I just have to stay away from Orange Juice after a long run :) Tomorrow I'll do my first 10 mile run. It's pretty fulfilling to be able to run this far. I've never been a runner, but I like to act like I am one now.

What's your...

2010-04-20T12:49:00.003-06:00

Motivation?

It's been hard for me to get out and run lately.

I have to force myself out the door.

Tell me what your trick is.

Sometimes I feel....

2010-04-19T17:16:00.004-06:00

Discouraged.

or maybe it's Inadequate.

Or maybe it's the fact that I feel like I'm not being as good of a wife as I know I could be. I'm not looking for any sympathy, I'm not looking for any pats on the back, because I don't need them. But seriously, does anyone out there feel the same??

I mean, really.

I cook dinner about once a week.

I don't clean my apartment as much as I should. (Sorry Mom)

I hate doing dishes.

I haven't vacumed up my hair off the floor in longer than I want to admit.

My closet is a wreck, in fact i think all crevices in my apartment are totally unorganized unless it's one that Jeff got too. Then everything is perfectly in align.

My car got cleaned for the first time since last summer I'm sure.

We need a new car, but I'm too afraid of getting in that debt that I don't even like to talk about a new car.

I'm just venting.

But really, am I the only one that excuses it like "oh someday when I'm a stay-at-home-mom I'll do all these things perfectly?"

I'm lucky I have Jeffrey that loves me. Heaven knows it takes a good man to do that.

I made a lot of new years resolutions and I don't feel like I'm fulfilling any of them. I need a Second-quarter re-resolute type thing.... I don't even know if I'm spelling words right.

I started reading Christine's sister's blog today. I know, it may sound a bit creepy since she doesn't know me. But it had me on the verge of tears all day. Read it. It's http://www.diaryofawidow.com/

I'm lucky to have a great husband that's all I can say.

and a dang cute one.

If Every Day Could be the Weekend....

2010-04-17T16:27:00.005-06:00

Once again, I'm on Jeff's computer and have no idea how to use it :) I don't think Apple's are Blogger friendly.

It's been a great weekend. Everyone other week I have Friday off, and this week was just one of those. It's been a great weekend with great weather!! I LOVE IT!!

Today I went running. I ran 9 miles. I'm training for a half marathon in June and hopefully a full marathon in October. It's taking it's toll on my body that's for sure!! Today I though I was going to die. After my run I chugged a whole water bottle. I came home and was going to eat something, but I nothing sounded good except orange juice. So I drank a huge glass of it... Yeah..big mistake. I laid down because I didn't feel good and ended up throwing all the water and orange juice up...not fun.

I was kind of excited though because as you can see in this picture FIRST SUNBURN OF THE YEAR!!

Most people aren't excited about sunburns, but to me this just means summer is that much closer! I can't wait to get on the boat!

Yesterday (Friday) I woke up around 8 and decided instead of going for my short run, I was going to hike the Y. It was such a beautiful morning and the hike was very theraputic. I really enjoyed it.

This is me on the Y...I don't know why the picture is so small...not that you all care, but seriously, can anyone spot my birthmark? haha. I was kinda huffing and puffing enough to make it show up for the WHOLE DAY. Thank goodness for make up haha.

This is the view from the Y. So beautiful...but the thing that caught my attention the most is that BIG body of water...it's calling my name.

At work last week we helped the Provo/Orem/BYU SWAT with some training. It was so much fun I wish all our security training was that fun. The picture below is me, of course. I was supposed to be an accomplice of the bad guy and so I had a hidden gun. They never searched us so when they took us outside, guess who got shot up....

a cop.

He looked at me like "what are you doing" so I shot a few more cops. It was really fun.

Here the SWAT team is listening to how they did in the first scenerio.

To finish off the weekend we are going to the temple tonight and helping our friend Jeremiah with a bunch of family names his parents gave him. It should be fun to go with some friends..except I'm pretty sure I'll be the only girl so I guess it doesn't really matter that friends are coming haha.

After the temple we're going to go play volley ball.

WELCOME WARM WEATHER

Warm weather just cheers everyone up. It's so great, and I'm excited for all our summer activities!!! I'm especially excited for Kev to move out here and join in on all the activities.

So long dreadful winter, you won't be missed.

Happy Birthday Mel!!!

2010-03-17T08:05:00.002-06:00

Dear Melanie,

I hope you have a great birthday.

I wish I was there to celebrate and do all sorts of fun things with you.

Thanks for being an amazing older sister and best friend.

I love you!!

Life in Provo

2010-03-07T15:00:00.003-07:00

I know I haven't written in a long time or posted any real updates. I tend to like to update when I have pictures to post, unfortunately I have none right now. Not much is going on right now, Jeffrey is busy with school, and I am with work. We both try to stay very busy playing as often as possible as well. But here are a couple things that have gone on in the not to distant past...

My little brother Kev got home from his mission a couple weeks ago. I don't have any pictures because I forgot my camera, but Mel has some posted on her blog. It was so fun to be home for an extended weekend to spend time with Kev as he was getting adjusted to normal life again. It is so nice to be able to text and call him whenever I want and I really look forward to him moving out here the beginning of May. It'll be nice to have a sibling out here that's for sure!

As most of you have see my advertising, Mel, my mom and I started a cooking blog. I think that's where most of my blogging efforts have gone lately. I tend to not care about this blog as much, because I have a lot more fun with the contents of our other blog. Along with that, one of Mel's posts was a broccoli soup with homemade bread bowls. I had never made bread before so Mel did step-by-step instructions for me. Little did she know she would create a monster. Lately I just try to find excuses to make bread. I love it a lot. I have a lot of fun making it and there's nothing like it when our apartment smells of fresh homemade bread :) Other than bread I get excited about out blog because with the help of my mom and Mel I do feel like my cooking skills are improving (which is one of my New Years resolutions, so I am very happy) I am really enjoying it and every week I look forward to the Recipe of the Week.

Mel made me an awesome apron for Christmas. Mel, I love it. Another reason I like to cook is just so I can wear it. Also, my Dad bought me a timeless Kitchen-Aid mixer for my bridal shower. It is probably one of my favorite things. With out it I would not be the wonderful (aspiring) cook that I am. :)

As stated in an earlier post Jeffrey and his friend Dustin go running often. I've started running (much shorter distances) as well. Next weekend we are running in a 5k and then in June I am running a half marathon and the guys are running the full marathon. Yeah, the sound of it makes my legs exhausted. I'm not one of those people that exactly likes running. I think the whole time I'm running I'm just counting down until I can stop. Oh well. I have Jeff for motivation.

Jeffrey turned 23 on January 24. He's getting so old. haha. I love to relish in the fact that we are the same age for 2 months. I think he had a fun birthday. He got to go snowboarding and we went out to dinner with all of our friends the day before his birthday. On his birthday the whole family got together for dinner and dessert. I'm not the greatest wife and didn't get him too much for his birthday, but at least his tires are safe on his car now. I laugh at thinking about his birthday last year. We had only been dating about a month and I struggled with what to get him. Fun times though. It's been a wonderful year!!

I've been ready for warm weather for a long time now...I think since before it got cold. I also decided I think I need to live in Arizona....or Hawaii. You know, strictly for health purposes. I'm not WELL when it's cold.

Anyways, sorry I don't have a really exciting post for you all but there you have it...

my life in a nutshell.

Backgrounds

2010-03-01T12:34:00.003-07:00

I can't find a background I like.

I need one that screams JENN

Nothing does so far.

I just want something happy and yellow.

Maybe a sun. Maybe something to do with summer....

Because it is coming soon :)

Good News :)

2010-02-22T07:48:00.003-07:00

I'm sure no one really cares, but I made a pledge in the Pound for Pound Challenege and this weekend I hit my goal. I'm really excited. I actually fulfilled my pledge!! I hope I can keep it up! I have a lot of drive right now for various reasons and the support of Jeffrey especially helps me. He's so great. He is getting ready to run a marathon with our friend Dustin. He is definately a great help for Dustin as well as me. He keeps telling me he knows I can run a marathon if I really tried...so I'm starting to try. I ran 5 miles on Saturday and about died, but even if the marathon is something I end up not doing, at least it's giving me a little push right now! So wish me luck!!

By the Way...

2010-02-06T15:23:00.001-07:00

We changed our blog so that we spell rue... right....

it is now...

makingaroux.blogspot.com

stalk us.

SUCCESS!!

2010-02-01T11:25:00.003-07:00

I had success....

I've been scared to make bread for quite awhile, but I've wanted to learn...

So last week Mel's recipe on our new blog was broccoli soup with a bread bowl.

I must say it turned out pretty good, and I'm pretty proud of myself.

I'm still working on one of my goals this year of being a better wife and cooking more for my husband and for some odd reason having success in bread making makes me feel so good

PS... I still plan on going private in a few days, so if there's any more stragglers out there that are a little too afraid to admit they still want to stalk me, don't be afraid. I'll be complemented (unless you're a total creep, then I might not add your email.... just fyi)

New Blog

2010-01-22T15:39:00.002-07:00

Mel, my mom and I are starting a new blog together. Check it out

www.makingarue.blogspot.com

also, don't forget i'm going private so leave me your email address.

Call Me Crazy...

2010-01-21T11:01:00.004-07:00

....I'm not a fan of people I don't know looking at my blog.

Call me crazy.

So I'm going private.

Please send your email if you'd like to continue partaking.

I'll give you all a little time to submit it to me...but not much....

{yeah...now's the time to fess up that you read and blog-stalk me}

Christmas & Craftivities

2010-01-03T17:35:00.003-07:00

Well I'm using Jeff's computer and I can't figure out how to move the images on his Mac like I can on a regular PC. So the pictures are all out of order. So Sorry.

Lately I've been feeling very domestic. I've been trying new recipes (most of them fail) I've been working on crafts and stuff (some of which fail) and I've set some other goals for other domestic things to work on.

I decided I wanted to make my nieces headbands for Christmas...unfortunately it took me a lot of tries to figure out how to make the flower, then how to make the headband the right size, so I only got one done by the time we got to Roseville. Here Marley is modeling it for me every so nicely. Isn't she a doll? Unfortunately the headband was too big, and Marley didn't like wearing it too much. Craft #1: FAIL.

On another note, I had so much fun with this little girl while I was home. I felt like she was my little bud. I wish I could take her everywhere with me. Is it weird of me to say that I find it hard to believe/understand that I will love my own kids more than I love my nieces and nephews? Because I don't know how it is possible. I mean seriously...look at this face:

Project #2: Success

I made this scarf for Candace for Christmas. It was all she said she would like, so I made it. I like how it turned out...I'm not sure if she did or not, but I'm still measuring the project as a success :)

OUT OF ORDER IS GOING TO DRIVE ME CRAZY!

Jeffrey bought me this awesome keyboard for Christmas. I was really excited. I've been wanting one for quite awhile. It makes me pretty sad when I think how I took piano lessons for about 8 or 9 years and I don't have much to show for it. So I told Jeffrey I wanted to change that and practice and get better again. So I've had fun since I got it, and after I finish this post I'll probably go work on a Les Miserables piece I am teaching myself.

Who all is jealous that this is one of my few Christmas decorations. I am sure it is the second stuffed animal Jeff would like to throw away, but it's ok. I love it and it will only come out for a month of every year :)

Our first Christmas tree...no the presents aren't that huge, the tree is just that small....We didn't have much room for a Christmas tree, but we do have a little ledge in our apartment that held our little tree and presents quite nicely.

Project #3: Success

The next two pictures are pictures of a book I made for Candace for Christmas as well. I can't get the second one to flip, so use your imagination on it being 90 degrees clockwise. My mother-in-law makes books like this and she has been teaching me how to do it. I wish I had a picture of the guestbook I made for Tara and Damon. I think it turned out pretty cute....if I do say so myself. I like making these books, it's a fun new hobby.

Project #4: Success

I made this book for my cousin Katie and I gave it to her the night before she went into the MTC.

Project #5: Fail/Success

I wanted to make Marley and Elizabeth matching pink headbands. So this one is Libby's....the flower turned out good, not a fan of the way the this style of headband is turning out though....following you'll see my improvement...so this one gets a half and half rating.

Project #6: Hopefully a success

This is a new combination of stitches I'm trying on the new headbands...so far it is a huge improvement and i used smaller needles to match the flower better. The only problem with it is it doesn't give much stretch so I am having to get head measurements...ugh!

Project #7: Who knows what success this is.

I decided to make myself a headband....see for your self... I kinda like wearing it....not sure if I'll wear it in public though. Here is the back (yes, I taught myself how to make a button hole!! Don't judge though...I'm not perfect yet)

Side view

Project #8: FAIL

I told you I'm trying to be more domestic...and yes, I've tried a few new recipes. One of them I was really excited about. Kimi told me about this website called pioneer woman. Well I was cruisin through her recipes and came across a Baked Lemon Pasta recipe. Look at the link. The picture will probably make your mouth water as it did mine. Well I tried it...and I don't think I put enough sour cream in because mine turned out really dry. It had really great flavor. The mix of garlic and lemon was delicious, but yeah, I managed to ruin that one. And of course I decided I should invite my in-laws to have some (you know because I can get over-confident about my cooking skills that I totally lack). Let's just say I was pretty embarrassed. They probably feel so sorry for their son. But sometime I'll try it again.... I think adding in chicken would make it that much more delicious.

Project #9: Mastered.

Can I just say PUMPKIN MUFFINS!!!

Pumpkin Muffins
Adapted from the American club, in Kohler, Wisconsin via Gourmet Magazine
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup canned solid-pack pumpkin (from a 15 ounce can)
1/3 cup vegetable oil*
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pumpkin-pie spice
1 1/4 cups plus 1 tablespoon sugar**
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 bad chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350*.

Mix flour and b.p. Set aside. Mix pumpkin, oil, eggs, spice, 1 ¼ cups sugar, b.s., and salt. Combine with flour mixture. In small bowl, combine remaining sugar and cinnamon. Divide batter evenly among 12 paper-lined muffins. Sprinkle with cinnamon mixture. Bake for 25 – 30 minutes.

The chocolate chip part is my addition. Isn't it the law that if I change something in a recipe, it's no longer and original recipe of that person, it's now my original recipe??? Well, law or not, it's MY recipe (oh and of course Mel's)

Well sorry for this long post. It gave me something to do why Jeffrey catches the Zzz's this Sunday evening. Poor thing has to start school tomorrow...I'm saying that in the most sympathetic, loving, supportive wife voice ever, not the "ha-ha sucks for you" voice you all are picturing.

Anyways, I'm off to do Project #10: Tacos.....hopefully I can't screw this one up too!!

Katie & Kristen

2009-12-04T10:17:00.005-07:00

I'm really excited for Katie & Kristen to get here on Tuesday. They are coming to Provo to take Katie to the MTC!! And I'm so lucky, they get to stay the night at our apartment!! First we're going to do a session at the Salt Lake temple...

Then hopefully shopping here....

Maybe lunch here if they are in the mood for KILLER MEXICAN FOOD Maybe see the lights here

Then drop Katie off here

Hopefully it doesn't look like this....But it's looking like it might, so girls...BRING WARM CLOTHES!!! The warmest it's supposed to be when you're here is 26 degrees with lots of snow!!! So love it or hate it, dress warm!!

I'm excited.

Divinity

2009-12-03T11:16:00.003-07:00

I didn't even know these existed until now. So delicious!! No need to wait for Easter now!

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-24T17:17:00.003-07:00

I am thankful for my wonderful husband and the love that we share. I'm thankful I can call him my best friend and that I get to spend an eternity with him. I'm grateful for my amazing parents and siblings and the close relationship I have with each and every one of them. I'm grateful for the gospel in my life and for Christ and his atoning sacrifice. I'm grateful to have temples so close and I'm thankful for the blessings it brings into my life. I'm grateful for my job and I'm thankful to live in this free country.

What are you all grateful for?? I'd LOVE to know!!!

I must be homesick.

2009-11-20T10:00:00.004-07:00

I don't care for country music at all. But something about this song makes me really homesick.

I can't wait for Christmas!

Appendicitis Halloween

2009-11-04T08:30:00.006-07:00

Once again Jeffrey and I made the trek back home to Roseville for the weekend. We went home for Gage's blessing, Mom's birthday, and Halloween.

The trip began with a drive with no heater. Driving through Nevada when it's 20 degrees outside with no heater can get a bit chilly in the car... Hense the following picture of Jeffrey with gloves and a blanket. We got to Roseville at 2 am and we went right to bed at 4 am I woke up with a really bad "stomach ach." It continued to get worse until finally at 3pm I went to the dr. and by 4 I was hooked up to an IV and admitted to the hospital to have my appendix taken out.
Needless to say the weekend didn't quit turn out as planned. Our plan was to drive back to Utah on Sunday, but because of my surgery we stayed in Roseville until Tuesday (I swear it wasn't planned but it sure worked out well!!) I was pretty drugged the whole weekend and not a lot fun. Hence the rest of the pictures aren't terribly exciting. But it was fun being home!!
Here is Matty as an army man.
And Alex as Jack Sparrow

Spiderman, Tinkerbell and Batman.The prettiest Tinkerbell I've ever seen.

Bennet as Dracula

Dannon as the suave Batman

Brody has his webs ready to go

The crew getting ready to go out trick or treating. I was really bummed. I had just gotten out of the hospital a couple hours prior to this and before we came out to CA I was so excited to go trick or treating with all the kids. Jeffrey and I walked to the end of the street and back with them and I came back wiped out and slept the rest of the night. Par-tay animal.

Marley wanted in on all the pictures with mom and dad

Rogue and Wolverine's brother (Seriously can't remember his name, help me out Mel!!) They looked awesome...even had dog-tags made

Mom's birthday, so happy Halloween is over! Doesn't she look great?!

The lovely Elizabeth

I didn't do much besides sit around so I was lucky enough my friends and family came to me!! Here is Kimi and Noah! He's huge!

I'm not sure where this picture came from but look at my dear - ol - pops. I just love him.

Last but not least

I'm expecting!!!

Just kidding.

No where near that. I'm just that swollen from surgery still.

The whole surgery was kinda a bummer but I was happy to spend so much time with my family. I am also so grateful for Jeffrey and how well he took care of me. It was definatly wonderful having a husband through something like this. But also, my parents and Mel. Thank you everyone for all the help!!!

Baby it's cold outside.

2009-10-21T12:39:00.005-06:00

Here's a few updates and things that have been going on. First off it's fall and that means deer hunting. As Jeff and I were leaving the other day we walked out to the car and Dustin was outside hanging up a freshly killed buck. Kinda gross. I'm not used to being surrounded by so many hunters. I prefer the gatherers ;) Presenting Liam Wayne Jackson. One of my best friends Katie Larsen Jackson had her first little boy a few weeks ago. He is a doll! We went to his blessing last Sunday and it was so fun seeing her parents and being there for his blessing.
On Sunday Jeffrey and I decided to go for a drive through the Alpine Loop and other places. It was so beautiful with all the leaves different colors. I liked the bright yellow ones so those are the majority of the pictures I took.
Isn't he so handsom :)

I made him take some pictures with me too :)

There was this old Beetle at his grandparent's property up the canyon. I thought it was kinda cool so I took some pictures of it. I also love how "Beetle" Was painted on the side. I don't know that I've seen that before.

More yellow trees :)

Isn't it beautiful?!

I accidentally got the motorcycle in the picture, but when I looked at it thought it was a pretty cool picture.

And the latest and greatest news. Jeffrey, his brother and my in-laws all went in on this boat. Isn't she gorgeous :) We really can't wait to go wakeboarding next summer now that we have a boat and we each have new wake boarding gear. We went wakeboarding last Saturday and it felt so great...well not the water...that was cold, but being on a wakeboard on the water was awesome. I'll start the count down for summer :) Also, I didn't get good pictures, but the boat is also able to make it so you can wake surf on it. So Jeff and Kevin both tried it and it looks like a lot of fun. So who wants to come play with us in Utah next summer!!! (Am I laying on a bribe too thick?)

One last thing. My mother in law made this Pumpkin Dip the other day for us to dip in apples. it sounded weird to me at first but it is DELICIOUS! Please try it everyone! It's the perfect fall treat!

Pumpkin Dip

1 pint of whipping cream- Whipped

1 - 5 oz pkg Instant Vanilla pudding

1- 15 oz (small can) solid pack pumpkin

1 tsp pumpkin pie spice.

Just trust me. If I like it then everyone should. I am the world's pickiest eater!!

Dad's b-day weekend

2009-09-23T07:30:00.003-06:00

Mom and Dad were here for the weekend for my Aunt Kathy's funeral and it just so happened to be on the weekend of Dad's bday AND BYU's first home game. My dad thought Kathy timed it perfectly!

Kathy was buried in Salt Lake City at the same cemetary as a few great people

Here is my mom at the Hinckley memorial. President Hinckley's cane is even there. It was amazing to run into and we were both very excited to see it.

We also found President David O. McKay's!

The next day Dad got to take my ticket and went to the BYU game to watch FSU kill them. He is wearing his bday present from Mel, Chris, Jeffrey and I. He was excited for his new shirt. He was really excited all weekend to go to the game. I'm just glad we had a ticket he could have. Otherwise the tickets were going from $80-100! While Dad and Jeffrey were at the game, Mom and I went to the BYU bookstore to look at books etc. We found this book: I'm not sure, but I don't think a book could be on a more specific topic.

And just FYI, I think this is one of my favorite close- up pictures from the wedding. I love a ton of the pictures and haven't printed any out yet because it's too hard. Jordan Farmer did a great job!!

What you've been waiting for

2009-09-08T07:11:00.004-06:00

Not a whole lot is new with Jeffrey and I but here are a few of the adventures we've been on in the last few weeks.

We went camping in the sand dunes with some friends. It was fun to use our awesome double sleeping bag, new tent and air mattress- compliments of family and friends (wedding gifts :) It was really really windy and kinda chilly
Nastiest thing alive. It was huge.
My love

This is a picture of Jeffrey and Kevin McFadyen. Des me, and those boys went and hiked Squaw Peak on Saturday. Des was visiting for the weekend and we did lots of fun things I didn't get pictures of.... bummer.

And of course we went wakeboarding.

This is my brother in law Kevin. I like this picture.

And of course, the New- do. I'm not the hugest fan of it but oh well. It's nice to have healthy hair again. My hair was so fried after the wedding. No need to tell me how cute it is, because I know it's not everyones favorite hair cut on me. But it's ok. I like it. It's pretty much one length (who am I kidding, it's thinned out a bit. I have way too much hair) No A-Line at all.

Dont I look so happy. I wanted to post before I left for work so you get to see my work attire. haha. And I know there are those out there thinking "why in the world does Jenn have roots in the front of her head?" Good question. Could a hair stylist answer this. I just got my roots done on Saturday. What. The. Heck.

I had her cut bangs, which I'm also not a fan of...hense the reason they are pasted back

Anyways, sorry it's kinda a lame post, there's really not that much going on!!!

Oh Jeff started school.... that's another thing going on. Yay for BYU football (who would've ever thought I'd be a fan?)

I swear

2009-09-03T08:20:00.001-06:00

I'll post something soon.

Friday

2009-08-18T07:33:00.002-06:00

I'm really really really excited to come home this weekend.

I can't wait to play in Tahoe and see everyone.

One Month Down...

2009-08-12T12:50:00.003-06:00

We've been married for a month now and it is GREAT! Married life is wonderful.

A few changes in our lives:

I got a job working for the Provo City Deputy Justice Court as a Court Clerk. Sounds really great, but it's not that glamorous. People just come to me when they want to pay tickets or sign up for traffice school. But it's a really great job with AMAZING benefits and pretty good pay for Provo. I work with some fun girls and I think it will be really great. Eventually when I get really good at everything I'll get to go to court and be the incourt clerk...or something like that. At least I hope. It's a very entertaining job. Jeffrey and I feel very blessed that I got this job.

2. Jeffrey made me learn how to wake board :) At first I was in denial because I've never been able to get up, so he actually had me try on a skim board and I got up the first time and from there I went wakeboarding. I love it. I am basically sore every time we go, but it really is a blast. Here are some pictures from last night. Kevin (my brother in law) let me know that when water is like it was last night that's when it's called "GLASS" It was the perfect weather with perfect water.

This is me:

This is Jeffrey getting so close to doing his 360He can get some air This is my brother in law Kevin
And me and Jeffrey :) This is Jeffrey on the skimboard. I'm not sure why he's crouching down on it but it's really fun. It's not made for being pulled on the back of a boat, it's made to go across the skim...like 1/8 inch of water, but it works, and it's really fun. SO Jeff skimboarded into the sunset.

I think that's about all that is new with us actually :) But life is great and we're just living it up until school starts! We're hopefully coming home to visit the weekend of the 22nd!...Just FYI

WEDDING PICTURES!!!

2009-08-04T07:05:00.003-06:00

Hey all! Jordan Farmer finished my pictures! Here's the link! Let me know what you think!

www.noriviea.phanfare.com

Mrs. Worthen's update!

2009-07-27T15:24:00.011-06:00

So I got married. To those of you that didn't know. But I'm sure everyone knew. Everyone who is anyone at least. I have a few pictures that I've copied from people off of facebook, other than that I haven't seen the official photographer pictures yet...only Facebook ones. So here are a few of my favorites.

Just coming out of the temple.

Matty had a hard time with me getting married. I love this picture a lot. He made me cry and my make up almost ran. Dang kid. I love the look on Jeffrey's face in this picture. He thinks I like my caboose in this picture, but he's wrong (partially...haha jk) I love the look on his face. Looks like love to me. :)I love Marley a lot.This might be one of my favorites so far. I love how there are my two favorite men in this picture. My Dad and Jeffrey. I also love the look on both of their faces. What a great day.

For other wedding pictures see mel's, or kristen's, or megan's blogs, or facebook. :)The next day we left for Newport beach for our honeymoon. We spent the first day on Laguna beach and wow it is beautiful there!! Here are some pictures of Jeff skim boarding...

Me falling from skim boarding...

And a picture that actually looks like I was successful :)

Of course I did

I also felt a need to take a picture of these cars. Notice we have one BMW and 2 Mercedes... ahhh Newport After Newport we went to Vegas for one night. This guy spray painted these pictures in just a few minutes, it was awesome. It's an American flag with the twin towers and the guys raising the America flag.

These pictures are the gardens in the Bellagio

Part of our honeymoon was spent in Paris

I think Jeff was the mastermind behind this picture. I think it's great!

This is the Excaliber...the hotel we stayed in while we were in Vegas

This is a 4-story wine cellar

After getting back into town my parents came up for the open house. Sadly, I have no pictures of the open house. Amanda and Sean were so nice to have my family over to their house for dinner. They also have a little rocket machine that they brought out for the little boys to use...

The mess the "little" boys (dad and Jeffrey) Made

They are so cool

Dad and Jeff letting the rockets off

My new neice Lindsey took all my little brothers on a ride on her horse. They were in heaven. I got lazy after taking a picture of Matty and didn't take any more.

My adorable new neice Olivia

Now I get to brag about my husband. This is the awesome bed he made for us!

The pictures weren't turning out so great, but these are the best I could find

Our many appliances. We didn't have much room for them so Jeff built the shelves you see here.

AAAnd the bathroom that Jeff totally redid.

This is our dining area

And this is Jeffrey asleep after work on our futon (temporary futon until we get our couches)

Long post, I know. Life is good :)

Wedding Hair-- Opinions please

2009-06-26T10:57:00.009-06:00

Ok. SO I know more people read this blog than comment. I KNOW this. So here is your chance to fess up and help a girl out. haha.

I know my 3 loyal readers ( Mel, Kristen & Megan) will comment and anyone else that has an opinion please comment also.

I've been trying to figure out what to do with my hair for the wedding (15 days) and I have just a few pictures on this post. Help me figure out which is best. I chose to look at celebrity pictures because....well....they're actually pretty. So many pictures from just ordinary people I found online are not what I want at all. I don't want barrel curls, I don't want it to look perfect, I'm happy if some hairs are strategically out of place. :) SO here are some of my ideas

1. The beautiful Miley Cyrus.

This is what I was originally thinking. I love it. I think it's beautiful and elegant. When I knew Jeffrey and I would be getting married I started growing out my bangs so I coudl have "elegant" bangs. Because who wants short "trendy" bangs for your wedding. They need to be timeless...right?2. I like Ashley Olson. Mary Kate always seems to look scary, but Ashley has a beautiful style. ( or maybe it's the other way around. Who really knows...I like the non-bulemic one.) (she's the blonde one in this picture). Yet another example of a style that would look good...maybe a loose french twist in back? Her bangs rock. I'd have to cut mine to look like this, but I'm willing too. If not right now, I will after the wedding for sure!
3. Yet another (I think it's Ashley). I think my hair might be too thick for this do...but I think it's adorable..and again, no idea what it'd look like in the back...

4. I'm normally not a fan of side-dos....but I think this one looks kinda pretty...not my first choice at all, but still thought I'd throw it in the mix.

5. Ok this is where my ideas are changing: I thought I wanted those "elegant" bangs...but how fantastic does it look to have all the hair off the face? Totally opens up this woman's face and I think it is awesome. I'm leaning more towards something like this.

6. This is one of the hairstyles I've wanted since before Jeff proposed....7. Now I know you can't see any hair do in this picture, but I have fallen in love with silk flowers. I am not having a veil so I thuoght I silk flower (maybe not this bit) would be pretty with any one of these up-dos.

OK Now coment and tell me what you think. :) Love you all

Home again!!

2009-06-23T10:57:00.013-06:00

I was so lucky to be able to go home again this weekend. It was a full weekend and it was WONDERFUL! I love all my family!

Here is Me and my new nephew Gage. This is the first time I got to hold him. He is so adorable. I could've stared at him all day. Meggie and I stood by his bed for about a half hour before I held him and I just stared at him. I love this picture of me and Jeff, is it just me or do we look more alike in this picture than normal? He's such a proud Dad! I love it. It was so fun seeing that little guy and I can't wait to see him in a week and a half again :)

Is it weird that I loved when he cried? his little head got so red. I think it was just fun to see him awake and moving and stuff.

My SHOWER:

Dana and Christine hosted an awesome shower for me. It was a "Favorite Things Shower." Hence the Braves jersy, Good N Plenty's and Dr Pepper on the Mantel. We also had vanilla ice cream and Riesens, and of course a lot of wonderful food. It was such a great shower. I'm so lucky to have such good friends to do this for me and so many wonderful friends and family to come to my shower. I loved it and I loved seeing everyone and I feel so lucky with all the awesome gifts I got.

Thank you everyone!!!

Sister-in-law Emily and my other sister-in-law (basically) holding her daughter Teagan.

"She's my sister" Does anyone think we look alike? A slight resemblence maybe?

My other sister-in-law Meggie

The wonderful Hostess Dana and Margo

The other Hostest Christine and Kathy

My grandma holding my adorable neice Sadie (I can call her my neice right?? Close enough...)

Mary Jeane and Katie!

Mel, Emily, Christine and Des. I really have no idea what's going on in this picture.

Almost all of the pictures of me opening gifts I have a horrible face. But a huge thank you to all of my aunts and Linda for our silverware!

Mi Madre and me.

Mom and Aunt Holly

Mel and Em. They're pretty cute.

So the rest of this post might seem like an ode to Marley. But seriously if you had a neice as cute as her you'd probably do the same thing. Now I have another neice and she's equally as cute and adorable. I didn't get any pictures of her sadly. I'm sorry. I still love Libby a lot I promise.

Dannon and Marley and Sadie were all sitting here playing so cute.

They will be best friends. Sadie Rose & Marley Rose

Kristen Jane and Melanie Jane

Sadie Rose and Marley Rose

Marley was a little beat.

Someone gave me Marley as a wedding gift. How sweet.

She was so sneaky. She took the box over and stood on it to get some chips.

I couldn't love this girl any more.

My Favorite Plumber

2009-06-09T11:26:00.003-06:00

Our bathroom is done!! Yay! I'm so happy that I am marrying an all-around handy-man. All we have left to do is paint the rest of the apartment and clean the carpets then we can start putting up all the furniture and stuff! 32 days until wedding day!

Jeff did an awesome job on the bathroom. Its very small but the nice new everything makes us not even care how small it is :)

It's a busy time especially with Jeff working 2 jobs then working on the apartment until it's time for bed. But it will all be so nice when it's done and I get to move in!

For Megan

2009-06-04T14:43:00.008-06:00

If anyone reads comments Megan requested I do a little note to the whole extended family. Take a deep breath.... it's really not as exciting as you would think it would be....ahah.

Grandpa: You are right, it's hard to find a man as good as you. I just got lucky with Jeffrey :)
Grandma: I've always loved your random peices of advice: I will always try to wear clean underwear when I ride in a car :)
Uncle Mike: I'm not as afraid of you as I should be.
Nicki: It was so fun having your for Christmas. You better be at my wedding.
Uncle Tommy: Do you still have offspring of that dog Shelby?
Aaron: I miss reading the letters you send to my mom.
Andy: Remember when you used to make fun of me for whining about how much I hated oatmeal just because you loved it?
Uncle Tom: Thank you so much for doing my invitations. They are so great.
Aunt Karyn: I'm very proud of my middle name. and thanks for helping with the invitations as well :)
Kristen: Remember when you shared a room with me and we both woke up and I was sleep-crawling next to your bed? Remember how we used to be REALLY reading into our horoscopes. Those things are true.
Aaron K: You married a girl from your mission...there's a stigma that goes along with that...haha. Good thing she was the cutest one on the mission :)
Megan: A whole post devoted to you that will probably take all day just because you requested it :) I'm sorry I killed your goldfish. I've been really good at the diet we established back in the day. Those stretches and ab curls in the pool kill me. I chose to forfeit the diet ice cream though.
Dustin: I've never met you. but you're pretty dang lucky to have Megan
Katie: I'm jealous of your job at the zoo. Someday you must take me on a tour and tell me all the facts about animals you know. Capeesh?
Matthew: I'm excited to hear you sing if you still are going to at my wedding. By the way, when did you grown up?? Facial HAIR??? dang.
McKay: High heels? Seriously? you would succumb yourself to such blackmail??
Tyler: Same goes for you.
Uncle Erik: I can't remember which twin is older so he goes first Or sorry SIR OFFICER UNCLE ERIK
Holly: I get so excited to talk to you on facebook then you say "have a good day" haha!!
Abby: I pay good money to have hair your color and it doesn't look nearly as good.
Lindsey: same goes for you!
Chad: Can you remember my name yet?
Uncle Matt: How does a 15 passanger van sound? JUUUUST KIDDING. For some reason I remember you not wanting a mini van. I might be crazy though and remembering things wrong.
Tami: Ready for baby #6? :D
Taylor: Your going to be just like your mom. That's pretty awesome.
Brad: I love your baseball pictures
Josh: you look tan. I'm jealous
Sam: I love the way you talk
Will: You are such a doll.

Happy Megan? I hope i didn't miss someone...Can you tell i was just ready to finish? haha. Our family is awesome.

Please Excuse Our Dust

2009-06-02T09:20:00.007-06:00

Jeff and I (well, Jeff) have been re-doing the apartment. Jeff and his dad and brother have totally redone the bathroom and it should be finished hopefully tomorrow. Last night I painted the extra bedroom. ALl I did was paint and I was so tired when I finished. Poor Jeff works 2 jobs then comes home and works on the apartment and doesn't complain at all. He's so great. Anyways, I'm sure I'll post pictures when it's all finished! It's coming together and I am getting so excited!!! 39 more days until we're married!

Jeff left me a hidden message :) haha

Dear Family,

I miss you. A Lot.

Dad: I'm trying not to worry :) I still wish I had a bobble head of you on my desk.

Mom: I wish I was doing wedding plans with you

Jake: I haven't seen you on Facebook and I have no one else to poke fun at.

Emily: You need facebook so I can keep up with you more.

Bradley and Libby: I miss you

Candace: It's been since Christmas...

Mel: I miss the Park-Mr Pibb- McDonalds- Days

Chris: I loved the new X-men.

Brody, Dannon & Marley: I miss you

Jeff: Your incoming hair looks so good on you :)

Meggie: Facebook?? what's with you sister-in-laws not having facebook???

Gage: I love you and I miss you. Good thing your on my wall paper to look at.

Kevin: Hurry and get off your mission and join me in Utah

Bennett: Good job having better mornings

Alex: I haven't seen your tan, but I'm jealous already.

Matty: Thanks for calling me. Make me rich with your baseball skills.

I have a huge family

I know, I know. I'm retarded, and just a bit homesick. But I'm happy and doing awesome!!! I'm so blessed to have Jeffrey otherwise I'd be going crazy!!!!

I love my ring.

2009-05-20T15:15:00.001-06:00

Jeff's Graduation

2009-05-19T09:17:00.007-06:00

Here are some pictures from our trip home last weekend. It was so great being there for Jeff's graduation from the CHP. I loved getting to meet baby Gage and Libby. They are both so adorable. I can't wait to see everyone again soon.

This is Thursday night. As soon as I got into town I wanted to go see Gage at the hospital downtown. So Jeff and Meggie took me, Jeffrey and Emily to see him. This is Jeff doing some tricks in the wheel chair he got for Meggie.

My first time meeting Gage!! He is so cute and has so much blonde hair...especially on his legs...just like his dad!! :)
Waiting for the Pinning Ceremony. Brody is always ready for a photo-op

The proud group of siblings and nephews.

I love this picture of Jake and Bradley.

I'm so proud of him.

I love this picture of Meggie and Jeff.

I know I'm a sap, but this video makes me cry every time I watch it.

Uncle Matt and Uncle Erik and Jeff. We are a CHP FAMILY!!

Proud sisters

Mel kinda looks like Marley saying "cheese" haha...jk your beautiful Mel

All the siblings present at the graduation.

Jeff showing off his new badge! oh and Mel and Dad

Grandpa and Brody at the EVOC demonstration. It was fun to watch Brody and Dannon, the loved it!

Grandpa loved the cars

Some of My Favorite Engagement Pictures!

2009-05-18T12:56:00.009-06:00

Well people have been asking to see the engagement pictures so I thought I'd put a few up. :) Here are some of the FUN pictures!! haha The rest you'll have to wait to see on the announcement haha. I love these pictures...all of the ones Tara took turned out great. I can't wait to see what Uncle Tom does with them on the announcements. I'm so lucky that both of them are willing to help us out!!

A little Spiderman Action

Dip baby Dip. I love this one.
That's the mountain we hiked in this
post

sore from smiling

I'm not pregnant.

Mom said no piggy back rides....

or straddling...

I'm Ugly and like a Dad

2009-05-13T08:38:00.002-06:00

Last night Jeff and I went to Target. We were walking by a group of kids they were all siblings and the oldest was probably 8. He and his sister were pushing their little sister in the cart who was probably about 3 or 4. The little girl looked up at me and said "That girl is ugly." The other two looked at me and laughed.

then...

Jeff and I were watching a cartoon movie with his neices and nephews. His 4 year old nephew, Jayce, felt my legs (yeah I haven't shaved in a couple days) and told me I'm like a dad. A few minutes later he asked me if I was a dad.

From the mouths of babes. Haha

Gage

2009-05-12T08:28:00.001-06:00

Please continue to keep Jeff, Meggie and baby Gage in your prayers. We will be having a fast starting tonight at 6PM and going until Gage gets out of surgery tomorrow night. For updates on him please refer to my sister's blog www.gotjensen.blogspot.com

The Day I Almost Died

2009-05-08T09:14:00.005-06:00

Jeffrey and I went on an adventure last night. He's been wanting to take me up hiking to Squaw Peak. So we went. It wa sa good hike with gorgeous scenery. I kinda lost my spirits when we got close to the top and there was snow. I hate hiking in snow. I tried my hardest not to whine but I think Jeff caught on that I wasn't too happy. But once we got to the top it was very rewarding. here are some pictures from the top. Then I'll continue the rest of the story. Oh and a shot of my ring :)

"Dad, I met a man in Rome. And he's wonderful and brilliant, and we're getting married"

Name that movie
Beautiful sunset! And dang good lookin' guy :)

Now to the rest of the story. As you can tell Jeff and I got to the top of the mountain at sunset. It took us 2 hours to get to the top. SO we figured we'd take a "faster" route down the face of the mountain. In the video Jeff kinda shows the way down we took. It doesn't look too bad until you realize the whole way down is very steep with almost no stable footing. The rocks slide all around. I haven't been that scared in a long time. Poor Jeffrey. At one point when he was helping me down a rock I just kinda broke down because I was so scared. My body hurt so bad and I hadn't eaten since 11am and kept getting charlie horses in my foot and calves. My body ached and I felt like we would never get to the bottom of the mountain alive. But we did it. I can't accuratly describe the mountain or the experience. It's like you had to be there. But just believe me when I say it was scary. But now I have bragging rights forever. I'm sure not many people have been so daring (or stupid).

I can tell this story now be cause we survived and didn't get hurt too bad. :) I'm grateful for that for sure. I really didn't want to die before I get to marry Jeffrey in 64 days :)

Have a Laugh...

2009-05-05T14:22:00.002-06:00

I thought it'd be fun to put up pictures of some of the "No" dresses I tried on with Katie yesterday. Enjoy!

This one looked pretty until we took it out of the bag. I still had to try it on though. Just for fun. The best part of this picture is Bride-zilla to the right. Her dress choices were awesome. I felt naked in the "immodest" dresses. I think you can tell my facial expressions. This would be awesome if I was name Arial...you know like the mermaid...
This dress is actually very beautiful. I loved it. But my favorite part was the low back which wouldn't really work for me. I don't have the time to make this one modest, but had to try it on. It was by far the most uncomfortable one, but very pretty.

So not cute. And totally felt naked.

I actually liked this one...until I saw the pictures. It defniatly had a lot of altering it would need, but luckily I found one way better that barely has to be altered.

...and the answer was yes.

2009-04-29T08:43:00.003-06:00

Most of you heard the good news by now (well maybe not the mystery readers) But Jeffrey proposed last night!!!!

Everyone has been asking about pictures and how he did it and all that stuff. So I'm going to do what most Bloggers do and Blog about it :)

Jeff and I go and play catch at the park on days that the weather is good. So yesterday I asked Jeff what we should do after I got off work and he said that we should go play catch before it starts raining. So I went home and changed my clothes (that's right, even put my Braves shirt on) and went to his house. We went to the park and just started playing catch. Then when I didn't know he switched the balls. I caught the new ball and didn't even know I caught it because I didn't feel it hit my glove. That's because it was so light. I thought it was some little kids' ball that Jeff found on the ground so I almost threw it back to him, but when I looked down at it this is what I saw:

He took a regular baseball and gutted it and filled it with foam and my ring was inside of it. I was/am so excited. We haven't set a date yet, but I think we're thinking in July. But anyways, here is the ring!!!

Of course pictures don't do it justice. But it's absolutely beautiful. I LOVE it. It's a Citrine.

Mystery Readers

2009-04-28T10:20:00.000-06:00

I just got off the phone with my mom. Apparently I have some mystery (or not so mystery readers) of my blog. This makes me chuckle. Not to mention any names but KaRyn and Dana and whoever eles, don't be bashful. Go ahead, comment on my blog. It makes me happy. I only think it's funny because I was sure the only people reading this blog was Mel, Megan and Kristen. But here's a special shout out to my most faithful readers...you keep this blog going.

Haha Love you All.

Gage Taylor!

2009-04-24T13:29:00.002-06:00

Jeff just sent me this picture to my phone. It's an ultra sound of his baby and look Gage is photogenic and smiling!!!

ISN'T THAT AMAZING?!