The Dukes of Heber

Another day...

2012-01-18T21:16:00.001-08:00

You know, it's days like this that make me think. I read a quote today that really got to me. It said,

"When you are going through something hard and wonder where God is, remember the teacher is always quiet during a test."

It's been an interesting past few months. Many changes have happened, good and bad. Although many tears have been shed, this 'course correction' I've had the pleasure of taking, has made me realize that we are never alone. I have been reminded countless times that Heavenly Father is aware of me and my struggles. He knows my weaknesses and yet still trusts in me to continue on this journey. I admit, I have been less than perfect . As a parent, I know the sadness in watching your child fail and hurt, so as a child, a daughter of God, I will try harder.

It's been a while...

2011-12-21T21:22:00.000-08:00

I'm back. I really am back. This time, I think I have something to say.
A lot has happened over the last year, and things got pretty interesting.

My love life is a mess. Yep. I will admit it. I have terrible taste in horrible men. One day I will figure it out, but for now, I guess I just have some great stories to tell. I'm going to write a book. You'll have to read about it there... :)

I don't want to sound crazy, and in fact, I just don't want to talk about it. I'm not sad anymore, I'm a little mad, a little disappointed. But most of all, I am relieved. After 6 weeks of marriage, I will be filing an annulment.

“We all want progress, but if you're on the wrong road, progress means doing an about-turn and walking back to the right road; in that case, the man who turns back soonest is the most progressive.”~C.S. Lewis~

But guess what? It's all right. I didn't lose myself. I actually found me again. And this time... I won't lose me. It's hard to admit when you have made a mistake, but it is even harder to pretend you are happy so that people won't realize that you made a mistake. Sometimes you need to put on your big girl panties and admit it. Yep. I did something stupid. I was looking for love and fell for something that wasn't even close. I wanted it so badly that I settled. I am not ashamed for what I felt, I am just sad that it didn't work this time. So, time to correct my course, my sights are set on the horizon, and I won't give up.

Stay tuned... I have plenty more to say!

Things I've learned...

2011-06-08T10:43:00.000-07:00

I’ve learned… that no matter how good a friend is, they’re going to hurt you every once in a while, and you must forgive them for that.

I’ve learned… that you should never ruin an apology with an excuse.

I’ve learned… that it’s not what you have in your life, but who you have in your life that makes life important.

I’ve learned… that it takes years to build up trust and only seconds to destroy it.

I’ve learned… that you can keep going long after you think you can’t.

I’ve learned… that you cannot make someone love you. All you can do is be someone who can be loved. The rest is up to them.

I’ve learned… that two people can look at the exact same thing and see something totally different.

I’ve learned… that no matter how badly your heart is broken, the world doesn’t stop for your grief.

I’ve learned… that my best friend and I can do anything, or nothing, and have the best time

I’ve learned… that our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are, but we are responsible for who we become.

I’ve learned… that even when you think you have no more to give, when a friend cries out to you, you will find the strength to help.

I’ve learned… that there are people who love you dearly, but just don’t know how to show it.

I’ve learned… that sometimes when I’m angry I have the right to be angry, but that doesn’t give me the right to be cruel.

I’ve learned… that true friendship continues to grow even over the longest distance. Same goes for true love.

I’ve learned… that just because someone doesn’t love you the way you want them to doesn’t mean they don’t love you with all they have.

I’ve learned… that no matter how much I care, some people just don’t care back.

I’ve learned… that we are responsible for what we do, no matter how we feel.

I’ve learned… that you should always leave loved ones with loving words. It may be the last time you’ll see them.

And now it gets interesting...

2011-04-13T20:18:00.000-07:00

I apologize to any of you who actually follow my blog... I have been a slacker lately. The sad thing is that I love to blog, I have lots to say, but just no time to do it! The past few weeks have been difficult, but lucky for me, things are looking up. I am moving on with my career, I have taken a position at a new school and hopefully this change will be the first of many positives to come into my life. I am excited about the new adventure and looking forward to the wonderful experiences I will be having... I am sad to leave Stevens-Henager... I have made some amazing friends and I am really going to miss my students, but there is a time and place for everythng, especially change, and this is my time. "All changes, even the most longed for, have their melancholy, for what we leave behind us is a part of ourselves; we must die to one life before we can enter into another."~Anatole France~...Here's to the new... More positive changes... I have started dating again. Sudden? Too soon? Maybe. But I think of what I could be missing out on by sitting around waiting to be "ready"... Who knows when that will be... but I won't let this opportunity pass me by to meet some amazing people and possibly find someone to share my life with. Hannah is doing great. She is almost as tall as I am... not too big of a surprise, and she is doing remarkably well in school. I still haven't bought my home yet, but I feel that is in the very near future for me. Good things are happening. With positive thoughts come positive changes. I am ready for them and will welcome them into my life...

Moving on...

2011-03-27T23:33:00.001-07:00

I never thought I'd be writing these words, especially here, but now is the time.

The engagement has been called off. It's been a few weeks now, and as my heart grows stronger, I realize that all of this was for a reason.

I have so many thoughts in my head right now, and maybe, just maybe, if I put them here it will give my mind room to breathe...

Never in a million years did I see myself as this woman I am today. I have learned some valuable lessons lately. I am different now. This is what I want to share...

1. You can love someone and not be with them. I love him still. I think I always will. I hope that someday something will come along and fill up the empty corners in my heart that this ending has left behind. At the same time, he will always have his own special place in my heart. I will keep him there always...

2. This was not a mistake. He was put in my life for a reason. I needed to learn some lessons, rather harsh ones I suppose, but still, I needed to learn. He taught me to be patient and understanding. He taught me that the world is a huge place and it is full of people searching for someone to love them back. He taught me that nothing is better than being in the arms of someone you love, and when they leave, they take a part of you with them that you will never get back. Hopefully, he keeps that part close to his heart and remembers how much he is loved.

3. There are a lot of people on my side cheering me on. My family and friends are amazing. They have been so caring and supportive and behind me every step of the way. The ice cream delivered to my door, the box of Kleenex left on my desk, my sister showing up to kidnap me and then being sweet enough to take my dress to her house so I wouldn't have to deal with it...the trip to the mall, the blessing from my brother, the home teachers "just stopping by"... these are not accidents. These are the people who love me showing their support for me. Just letting me know they are there to lean on when I don't feel strong enough to stand.

4. Though times are hard, I will stay faithful. My faith is what is holding me together at this point. It would be easy to do what the world wants me to do... I could lock myself in my room with a bottle of booze and drown out my sorrows... What good does that do, anyway? Then I'd just be sad and sick...I just know that no matter what happens or how bad it seems, there is nothing so bad that I should abandon my faith. How blessed I am to be able to go and sit in a holy temple and feel my Father's love. He has shown me that a broken and tender heart is more in tuned to his promptings, and that if I listen closely He will ease my sorrow. I have had answers to my prayers and a peace in my heart at times when I thought I was alone in this world. I also know that if I just trust and obey in the Plan it will all work out. How, I don't know, but it will definitely work out.

5. My Father in Heaven is aware of me. He loves me. He wants me to be happy. I need to do my best to make sure that it happens. Therefore, I will keep on doing what I need to do and not let Him down. Life goes on and so will I.

6. I was loved. I can say with certainty that Pierre loves me and I still love him. I miss him every day, but the tears are coming less often. I still think of him all the time, but I now do it with a little smile on my face because I know I was truly loved. I know he will be fine. He will move on and find someone new, someone who is everything I can't be for him.

I think she was writing this for me...

"This life is what you make it. No matter what, you're going to mess up sometimes, it's a universal truth. But the good part is you get to decide how you're going to mess it up. Girls will be your friends -- they'll act like it anyway. But just remember, some come, some go. The ones that stay with you through everything--they're your true best friends. Don't let go of them. Also remember, sisters make the best friends in the world. As for lovers, well, they'll come and go, too. And babe, I hate to say it, most of them, actually pretty much all of them are going to break your heart, but you can't give up because if you give up, you'll never find your soul mate. You'll never find that half that makes you whole and that goes for everything. Just because you fail once doesn't mean you're gonna fail at everything. Keep trying, hold on, and always, always, keep your chin up, and most importantly, keep smiling, because life's a beautiful thing and there's so much to smile about."

Marilyn Monroe.

Looking into the future...

2011-01-04T19:05:00.000-08:00

This is the Temple. This is the ring.

This is the family.

Can it get any better than this???
OH, YEAH!

Today

2010-12-21T07:40:00.000-08:00

Today is going to be an amazing day. Today is the day I will introduce the love of my life to my family. I guess a better way to phrase that is that today is also a very scary day...

I am not the type of girl to bring the new boy around the house just so the family has something to talk about... I am a very picky about who meets my family. Maybe it's because I have made so many mistakes and don't need another reason to hear "I told you so," and if they never meet him, he never existed, and life goes on as planned. At least that's the way it works in my head. I avoid the conversation like the plague... "so Sarah, dating anyone?" My reply is usually something to the point of "I would like to have my attorney present for any further questioning..."

Yes, it is that bad.

So with that said, I just have to inhale deeply and remind myself that this is a good thing. The fact that I even want to clue the family in on the whole thing has to say something, and when I see my family and they ask, "So, Sarah, who is this?" I can smile and introduce my Pierre. The man I have waited 33 years to meet. The man who stole my heart the first time he said my name. This amazing man who loves me for me, and no matter what my family has to say or think, nothing will ever change that.

I am his for eternity, and knowing that makes today an amazing day.

I have something to say!

2010-12-13T12:25:00.000-08:00

I have some news.

I figure there aren't many people who actually read this thing anymore due to the fact that I never blog anymore. I'm just too dang busy. Work, Hannah, church callings, being in love...

Yep. You read it right. It's true. I found him. Actually, he found me, and I am so thankful that it happened.

Finally.

He is the most amazing man. What could be better than finding the man you want to spend eternity with? That's easy. It's when you find out that he loves you back.

Never in my wildest dreams would I have pictured this man. Caring, SMART, patient, adorably handsome, and the sexiest accent you can imagine... :)

Funny thing is, I haven't told hardly anyone. Been a little pre-occupied...

Anyway... I will post photos as soon as the week ends and my

TWO WEEK VACATION BEGINS!

But, hey, for those of you who actually read this, keep it on the down-low, I haven't told the parents yet.

I think that will be their Christmas present this year.

My new favorite...

2010-11-03T15:47:00.000-07:00

Found this song, love it, love it, love it!

Come and Save Me

The sky keeps on changing colors

In the rain

Nothing ever seems

to stay the same

but I found you to my

Surprise

I found all I needed

In your eyes

Everyone keeps leaving

but you stayed

when I held you tonight

and let my heart go free

Hold me close

now until forever

I'll be unafraid

hold me close

give me back

my reason to believe

Come and save me

Love

nothing ever takes the place

of love

Breaks through all the madness

like a flood

you washed away my fears

and let my heart go free

Hold me close

now until forever

I'll be unafraid

hold me close

give me back

my reason to believe

Come and save me.

HELLO WORLD!

2010-10-25T15:36:00.000-07:00

The votes are in... I am crazy.

I cannot believe how fast the last few months have flown by, and even more, I can't believe how life is changing. I should take a few minutes to clarify the rumors, lol, but I will wait for a future post for that when there are photos to attach.

Work is crazy, and I am counting down the days until I can take a vacation... but still a way to go. There have been a lot of changes at work, not all good, but changes nonetheless. Hopefully it will all turn out well.

Hannah is doing great. She is enjoying school and really likes the area we are living in. She is doing gymnastics this year instead of dance and loving it. I am a little sad I won't get to dress her up for a recital, but if this is what she wants then I will just be happy for her.

I am also in the process of qualifying for a home. I figure I am going to be in Salt Lake for a while, so it is time to quit paying someone's mortgage. There is a home here for sale in the ward that I live in, and my whole primary class is in the process of praying that I get it. How cute is that?!

So, I know the next question on all of your minds is the big one....
I'm still dating, and hopefully I can tell you all about it soon.

Well, I should go and get ready for work. I miss you all and can't wait until we can catch up again!

ABC... All about me

2010-06-04T00:42:00.000-07:00

Can't sleep. Again.
Hopefully this will work out like counting sheep...?
A: Age-- Too tired to lie, so 33
B: Bed size-- queen
C: Chore I hate-- unloading dishwasher
D: Dog's name-- Rascal
E: Essential food item--Jalapeno cheetos
F: Favorite color-- blue
G: Gold or Silver-- can I like both???
H: Height -- again, I am too tired to lie, so 5'1"
I: I am--extremely tired, yet can't sleep. Go figure...
J: Job-- Instructor at a career college. Also trying to be a good mom. Not doing so well at the juggling act right now.
K: Kids--My amazing Hannah, almost 8, the love of my life!
L: Living situation--Right now, just me and Hannah, but soon to be a roommate to help with the bills.
M: Mom--Earlene. Should come to my house more often and tend for me so I can save some dough on the sitters! Lol, no, I miss her.
N: Nickname(s)--Dukey, Shorty, Dutchess, Sarah-bo-berra, Sarita, pretty much anything that sounds stupid, they have used it.
O: Overnight hospital stays--8 nights with my c-section, one gall bladder episode, and one (well I guess I should say "two") breast reduction
P: Pet Peeve--liars, especially when you know dang sure they are lying and they do it anyway, like you are stupid
Q: Quote from a movie: "What do you think the chances are of..........you and me....ending up together?
Not good.
You mean like not good one out of a hundred?
I'd say more like one in a million.
(Pause)
So you're telling me there's a chance.... YEAH!!!! (my fav. part)
R: Right or Left handed-- right
S: Siblings--Pat, Abby, and Heather
T:Time I wake up--6:30
U: Unique thing about my car: I use the vase on my beetle for a fish not a flower (plastic, not real duh!)
V: Vegetables I hate--soggy ones
W: Ways I run late--other people make me late and that is annoying
X: X-rays: teeth, ankle, and back
Y: Who left out the Y???
Z: Zoo favorite--train ride. It's the quickest way to see it all without pushing a stroller up all of those dang hills.

Well, I am pooped. Now I'll just dream of zoos and soggy veggies. G'night all.

Major update!

2010-05-30T15:30:00.000-07:00

Needless to say, I am a little slow on the blogging. Anyone who knows me knows I am a procrastinator. Parts of this post should have been done a month ago... So this is ONE MAJOR UPDATE!!!

I should have posted a month ago after I got back from Vegas. I was lucky enough to win a trip (March 26) on Dad's b-day. I hadn't really planned on winning, so I called him up to rub it in that I had won, and thought, heck, I ought to just invite him to go... it'll be one heck of a birthday gift! So I did, and it was a blast!Our package included the following: Airfare, accomodations at the MGM Grande, 2 tickets to the ACM's, tickets to the after party jam, Brooks and Dunn TV special taping, and the Summer in 3D movie with Kenny Chesney. (He even took a moment to come out on stage and introduce the film)I know you can't tell from my crappy picture, but I promise that is him with the hat on in the spotlight...We spent a minute or two up in Heber last weekend for a quick trip to see cousins who were in town for the funeral of their Grandma. It was great to see them, just a crappy way to plan a get-together.

A good looking bunch of boys...And the girls...

As soon as we could, we hit the road and made a quick trip to Montana to see TJ for his B-day...

We saw the new Shrek movie, did some auto repairs (not planned) and hung out for a while. TJ and I even got to spend a little one on one time cuddled up on the couch with a silly movie. I sure have missed him! I can't believe he is 11 already, the time has just flown!

"Someone" forgot to buy the candles, so we just pretended to blow them out

His new nerf gun, and the showing off of his collection...

That Monday evening, Hannah informed me at around 9 pm that she wanted to do the talent show at school the next day. Trying to keep myself from grumbling too much, we went to the closet and found an old costume from a few years ago, let out the sides a bit, and found some music to dance to. She was happy enough. The next day she preformed and did a great job! I know, all moms say it, but Hannah WAS the best one there... ;). It was one of those moments I wondered where she got the "I'm ok to be in front of a crowd" gene, cause she didn't get it from me.

Julia, Ana, Hannah, and Afton after the talent show.

On the 27th, we had Hannah's end of year dance recital. I will eventually get my videos to upload, but until then, this will have to do!
Hannah and her flowers, she loves to get them after a recital and pose with them... What a funny girl.

The next night, we attended the Stevens-Henager graduation. It was kind-of fun to be able to sit on the stage and watch the people we have spent so much time with accomplish such a great goal... Also makes me a little bit more excited for next year when we will know more of the students.

Me, Lindsey H (another instructor), and Barbie

Katie, Me, and Lindsey H.

WHEW!!! I think I am glad the month is over!

May 20, 2010

2010-05-20T10:48:00.000-07:00

Nothing really special about today. It IS payday, which I am very thankful for, but other than that, the 20th of May has always just been another day for me.
I think that is going to change. At 3:30 I am picking up my "baby" girl, and we are headed out to find a baptism dress for her. This is a bitter-sweet day for me. I cannot believe my little girl is turning eight, but at the same time, I cherish every moment we have shared together along this journey.
Last night we took out her blessing gown. She was amazed at how small she was. She took out the booties and held them to her feet and giggled. I tried not to cry.
Well, I will end this emotional journey for now, but rest assured, there is much more to come.

I Joined - Have you?

2010-05-11T13:07:00.001-07:00

Getting started...

2010-04-30T10:45:00.000-07:00

Needless to say, today has not been great. I had great intentions of getting up and cleaning the whole entire house... the laundry is halfway done and I am playing on the computer now. Go figure.
I have been asked to speak in Sacrament meeting on Mother's day, and am beginning to stress a bit. WHY ME??? Isn't it enough that I will be there? I also have a primary class to teach and am singing with the choir... Ugh. The worst part is that I said yes.
I suppose I shouldn't complain. So that is why I shirked my duties on housekeeping and camped out over here at the computer. I needed some inspiration. I also wanted to read some blogs and check email... I admit it!
I better get back to work now... tonight we are headed off to the Temple with some friends, Hannah is headed to her Dad's for the weekend, and I think I may have some time to do some catch up blogging if I can get the stinkin' house finished first,and then possibly get my talk started. WHEW! Days off are so exhausting!

Dear Blog...

2010-04-26T22:06:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog,
I'm still here. I know I have been rather quiet lately. It's not that I don't have anything to say to you, it's just that lately we have been living two different lives. I miss you. I really do. I think back fondly to those long days at the Holiday Inn... just me and you for hours on end. I used to blog my little heart out over the most random stuff! And the Internet surfing we used to do!!! Wow! Those were the days!
I don't want to say that I have outgrown you... I miss you and so want to reacquaint myself with you! I've done some amazingly fun things lately...a dream trip to Vegas, some great things with work, some hilarious mother-daughter moments... all without pictures, of course, because you know me, always something happening and no camera to be found. And you know what? You probably wouldn't even recognize Hannah. She is an amazing little girl...beautiful, smart, and busy worrying about her mother. Between my precious time with her, my job, a primary calling, and just trying to maintain some sanity in my life I have neglected you. So here is my vow to you: I am not going to promise to update you once a week. I can't even promise you once a month; but for now I will promise that when life gives me a second or two to reflect on some stuff and get it into words appropriate for the rest of the world you will be one of the last ones to know!
Love,
Me
P.S. Tell my "blog buddies" I miss them, too! I still sneak on here and read their posts, just don't hang around long enough to comment. I promise to work on that one too.

Spring Recital

2010-03-31T07:09:00.001-07:00

Nothing says "spring" like a 7 year old dressed in a pink tutu. Hannah always gets pretty excited to perform for the spring recital. This year was a little crazy with the weather, so not too many people were able to attend, but be sure, you'll get your invite for the year end review.

Hannah likes to practice her "hard moves" before the show. She tries so hard to balance that she just tips over. I don't know what to do with her. Here we are after the show.

The video wouldn't upload, so I'll try again later.

We always go out after the show, and Hannah chose Joe's crab shack this year... Loved the sign, and my sweet 7 year old made it a point to take the camera and take this picture for me. People were starting at the little ballerina with the camera and who knows what was going through their heads...

March 6, 2010

2010-03-13T11:17:00.001-08:00

March 6th was a pretty special day.

We arrived in Lehi to attend a baptism and baby blessing, but much to our surprise, we were greeted with this amazing site. We were lucky enough to be sharing the building with a family of 19-year-old Lance Cpl. Carlos Aragon.

The streets were lined with flags, there were members of the military everywhere...it was quite the sight.

My cousin was a little nervous that the plans would be changed due to the funeral arrangements. According to the bishop, "a funeral trumps everything else", so we were afraid we would be moved. We were happy to be able to finish up before they were ready to begin.

Josh Walker was baptized by his father right after his baby sister, Kinley Maynes, was blessed.

It was amazing how strong the spirit was in the building. I will never forget how clearly I was able to see how lucky we are to live here, free to practice our religious beliefs, and to see the price that was paid by this young man, and also by our Savior, so that we can be here surrounded by family and friends.

A lot to be said about such a day.

A day in the sun!

2010-03-03T10:17:00.000-08:00

Saturday was a great day.

We were lucky enough to have some friends stay the weekend with us.
We spent Saturday to the Hogle Zoo... it was sunny and warm and not too busy.

Hannah's new favorite animal.

my favorite part of the zoo was the train ride...I wish it were longer! Little Chinchilla...Hannah got to pet it but I was slow with the camera.

A new addition at the zoo... So cute!

Taygen loves Zebras...well, he loves anything that resembles a horse!

Another Friday.

2010-02-26T20:58:00.000-08:00

Is it just me, or is this year flying by? I feel like I closed my eyes right before Christmas, and awoke to the alarm ringing out that "Hey, it's the end of February, get it together!"

So let me tell you a little about the day to day down here. There are three types of days for us.
Day one goes like this: Up and out the door at 8, drop Hannah at school, in my classroom ready to start class at 8:30. I teach my first class until 11, have a half hour break (if that is what they call it) and back in the classroom until 2. I get home about 3 and pick Hannah up at 3:30. We go straight home and do homework, read, and make dinner. Next is the drive to get Sarah, the best sitter in the world! I have her here around 5, she eats dinner with Hannah and I go back to work. My next class used to go from 6-10, but due to some politics and just plain idiotic plan, I teach from 5:30-10:30. Yep. 10:30 PM. Sarah's mom comes and picks her up so I don't have to drag Hannah out of bed, and I get in bed about midnight and get up and do it all again four days a week.
Fridays are special. I only have to go to work every other Friday, so I either get Hannah off and go back to bed , or get up and do laundry. On the ones I have to work, I go in from 9-12.
Weekends are the best. We try to sleep in, usually try and do some bonding, but Hannah is at her dad's house every other weekend, so some weekends are pretty lonely around here.

So now you have my excuse for no blogging lately. And to make it even worse, my schedule changes every 4 weeks due to what classes have to be taught and if they need me days or nights. It sucks, because it feels like you start a new job every four weeks. This month is kind of a rare case, and I am praying that next one will be easier with at least 2 nights off. I guess we wait and see.

Well, today was a work Friday. Staff meeting and then my monthly meeting with the Dean of Education. I actually look forward to these meetings because it is my chance for a pep talk and to see what my students are thinking. Today's went great! My reviews were awesome and it really makes it worth it when you get a little positive feedback. Now if my pay would just reflect the opinions of my students....

The sun was shining today and the temperatures set off my spring fever. I cleaned the car out in the sunshine and talked myself out of jumping in the car and heading south for the weekend. Tawnya is going to be here tomorrow morning and spend the weekend with us, hopefully a fun time with the kids if the weekend cooperates.

Well, enough of my day to day, but I did think it was about time I explained myself and how it was going. I'll blog again soon!

What a rush!

2010-02-18T22:15:00.000-08:00

I had a major adrenaline rush today. I don't care much for it. Some people love it, I could do without it.

I am minding my own business, teaching my class, watching the clock, praying the next 30 go fast so I can go home and take my shoes off for an hour before I have to go pick Hannah up from school. One of the assistants in the program comes running into my class and says calmly... "Sarah, we need you in the hall." I head to the door and she then says, "It's an emergency," and runs down the hall. I catch on that it is an EMERGENCY and run behind her. We get to the lobby and there is a woman unconscious in the elevator. HOLY CRAP! My heart starts to pound... I'm thinking (Airway, Breathing, Circulation....) and my mind is racing... Her lips are blue, her pulse is thready and I am trying not to lose my cool! To make a long story short, we call for 911, Jill, one of our RN's runs in to assist, the respiratory dept stops by to lend a hand (and much needed oxygen tank), and as soon as those First Responders hit the door from the fire department-I was out that dang shaft and back to my class! (Happy to be there instead of where I was!)

I had to go sit down and collect myself. I was shaky and...whoa..., you know? There is a reason I didn't stick to nursing. There is a reason I am not an EMT or working in an ER... Adrenaline make me crazy! That was 1:30 today... it's 11:30 at night and I still am wired.

On to happier things, Hannah got to attend Greg's wedding today. I hear it was beautiful! Wish I could have been there! She modeled her "look" for me, and donned the "Hollywood" glasses to complete the outfit. I love that little girl!

Hannah called me tonight and said,

"Guess what I got from the wedding, Mom?"

"What did you get?"

"I caught the bouquet!!!"

I laughed! My little girl caught the bouquet... what a rush for her! She deserves it!

Well, here is the proof! Hopefully I won't wait too long to post again... I have a feeling I'll get better at this.

Big changes this weekend....

2010-01-28T10:44:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday to ME!

2010-01-25T13:55:00.000-08:00

Sorry I haven't had time to blog lately... It was one of my new years resolutions, but you know how long those things last.

Well, the b-day weekend was awesome! We had a great weekend with the whole family... Bowling, dinner (my entire family made it this year, all 17 of us!), cousins sleepover, chatting, vising the new baby, and a few minutes vegging in front of the TV with a good movie.

It is Monday and I am back to reality with a dozen deadlines before our audit and lots of needy students! I took this photo the other night at a friends house cause at the time it was hysterical. Now I am starting to feel sorry for the little guy in the bowl. I guess I am just a little too empathetic to his little situation lately!

So other than setting a new years resolution I have decided weekly goals are better for me so there they are:

My goals for this week are these:

1.Survive until Friday.

2.Get to the temple this weekend.

3.Stop stressing.

Any ideas on how to accomplish #1 and 3???

Christmas Dance Recital

2009-12-09T08:44:00.000-08:00

Last night was Hannah's dance recital. Looking back, it is amazing to me to see how much she has grown and changed over the years. This is Hannah 4 years ago at her first dance performance. Holy cow! So tiny!And here she is now...

She decided that she wanted to try tap this year instead of ballet... Now she is totally bummed that she isn't doing ballet. Mostly due to the fact that she didn't get a cute new tutu for her recital...Just a sweatshirt and a scarf. I was disappointed, too, Hannah.Needless to say, she still does a great job and is such a beautiful dancer. Her dad and Amber were able to come and see her, along with my mom, her Grandma Shell and Aunt Brooke.

Fun Filled Fridays

2009-12-06T12:13:00.001-08:00

This past Friday was quite eventful, to say the least. I started off the day by dropping Hannah off to school and heading in to work to post my grades. Hannah went to her friends house while dad and I went out car shopping.

Let me give you a little background on my little old car. My 98 Honda Civic, lovingly referred to as the Rice Rocket, has been with me since November, 2000. After 298.360 miles, I have decided that she needs to retire. Along with needing a distributor, CV axles, and a thermostat, (I can drive clear to work without my heat even starting to get warm) her exterior has seen better days. Every time I get into that car I feel like Captain Hook when he could hear the tick tock of the crocodile coming towards him. I hear the tick tock of a time bomb... I know I am just one turn of the ignition key away from this car just not wanting to run anymore and a hefty repair bill just to get it back on the road. So to make a long story short, I decided it was time to take the plunge. Maybe this will help me deal with my commitment issues...Maybe not.

So I found this sweet deal on the cutest little Beetle. I won't bore you with the specs, but lets just say this... Heated seats. I think I am going to enjoy my drive to work this winter! Dad went along with me for moral support and to drive my other car home until I decide what the heck to do with it.

We got home and Hannah had her friends sleep over. Riley and Karina live here in the neighborhood and the three of them are pretty much inseparable. They danced, sang, watched about a minute of a movie, ate pizza, drank smoothies and hot chocolate, and tore the house to pieces. I, on the other hand, went into my bedroom and folded laundry. Needles to say, we didn't get to bed until around midnight, but they had a blast.

Well, it was a super long day, but in the end, I think it was a pretty good day. When I can get up the courage to go back out into the cold, I may take a photo or two of my cute little car so I can show ya all. Now the count down begins for my next adventure...Road trip to Montana in December. Wish us luck!

Honor Roll

2009-11-30T20:49:00.000-08:00

At parent teacher conference last week, I received an invitation to come to the school today and watch the honor roll assembly. Hannah's school gives awards to all of the students who get all A's and B's. Hannah was so excited to get to go to the assembly...Her dad and Amber were also able to attend and see her in the spotlight. I can't believe that I have such a smart, sweet little girl! I took more pictures at the assembly, unfortunately they didn't quite turn out.
So in celebration of such an awesome achievement, Hannah was also able to go watch the Utah Jazz game tonight with Robert and Alma... She loved it, minus the part about having to scream every time the Jazz scored!

So, on to more of my fun life... Work is going well. We had a bit of drama today, though. One of my students received a call during class that her husband was having a seizure and they were transporting him to the hospital. She was freaking out to say the least. I jumped in and worked my magic ;) and calmed her down. Then I had another student call me because she thought she was having a stroke!!! For heavens sake, people, call 911, not your instructor! I advised her to go to the ER and call me back... I heard she saw her doc, but still don't know how it all turned out.

Tonight my students got to give their first injections on each other, so needless to say I am a little wound up... It is a little nerve racking being responsible for these people when they have needles in their hands! Tomorrow is "banana day" for my class. I get to watch 30 students slice, stitch, and then remove sutures from bananas. Anyone want to come? I am hoping I don't have a story to tell tomorrow!

Where is the "off button"?

2009-11-12T21:43:00.000-08:00

I can't turn it off. My brain, that is. It's pretty late and I can't sleep. I'm fighting a nasty sinus infection and I don't think the antibiotics are working. can't smell or taste a thing. That could be a good thing I suppose. I took some Nyquil and now my throat feels dry and sticky. I need to drink more water. I have hundreds of papers to grade and lesson plans to print out. I wonder if any of my students emailed me tonight... Oh, well. I'll check that in the morning. I just spent an hour blog-hopping and I really should have been putting dishes away and folding the clothes that have been in the dryer for two days. I have no idea where my phone is. It may be in the car but it is cold and rainy outside and I am freezing and that will only make me colder...I worry if we made the right decision to move to Salt Lake. I also wonder if my car will start tomorrow! Hannah is going to her dad's house for the weekend... Maybe I'll just put in some earplugs, warm up the electric blanket and sleep the weekend away!

Homesick

2009-10-11T18:02:00.000-07:00

I am feeling homesick. There. I said it. I miss my little town of Heber. I miss my friends and I miss my neighbors. I miss being able to run to the grocery store without having to wait at a stop light. I miss bumping into people I know everywhere I go. I miss people asking me how I am doing and really meaning it. I miss Sunday mornings in the ward I grew up in. I miss the drives over to Wallsburg just to check on things for Grandma. I miss feeding cows and changing sprinklers. I know, this sounds crazy. Here I am sitting around on a Sunday afternoon with nothing to do. I should be napping or doing something productive... Nope. I am sitting here feeling sorry for myself for what I feel like I am missing out on.

Now don't get me wrong, things are good here. I have a great job. I am making more money than I have ever made in my life. I love what I am doing. I never thought I could do this, and yet, I find that it feels so natural. Hannah is thriving in the new neighborhood and in school. She has so many cute little friends and this place never is quiet. My neighbors are awesome. Last weekend I was sick and my neighbor, Anna, watched Hannah all day and even dropped by with a bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup...so what am I complaining about???

I guess I just didn't realize that so many changes would eventually catch up to me.
Well, Hannah will be back from her dad's house in a minute. I better get it together and finish up dinner so we can enjoy the rest of the evening.

I am still alive...I promise!

2009-09-19T21:13:00.000-07:00

I know some may be wondering where the heck we have been...
Ok, well, I'll just assume that at least someone is missing my lovely blog...
Seriously, things have been crazy the past few months. I've made some major changes in my life. I moved. I changed jobs. Twice. I haven't had a paycheck for a month. I haven't had Internet for a month. I took a job doing something I thought I could never do and found that I am really good at it. I have been reminded over and over again how extremely blessed I am and how much I am loved. I agree, that was a little vague, but I guess you'll just have to stay tuned to see whats up.

Happy July!

2009-07-24T15:30:00.000-07:00

Wow. It has been a while since I posted anything on here... I bet some of you are wondering what the heck happened to me. Well, here is a little bit on what has been going on around here lately.

First off, I started a new job. Hannah and I are going to be moving the first of August, so some big changes happening around here. I have been commuting and it really sucks! I can't wait til things settle down and return to something close to normal.

Hannah had her 7th birthday... It's hard to plan parties around this time of year with everyone vacationing, so we just headed down to the pool with a few of the cousins. We were lucky enough to have TJ and Tori still here, so we had a great time.

We took a little drive up the Aspen Loop the other night... it was absolutely beautiful! I think we are going to have to go back soon and hike to the Timp Cave...
I couldn't resist getting a picture of her... She just looked so beautiful!

Well, my little Hannah is off on vacation with her dad right now in San Diego... I miss her tons and can't wait til she gets back!

Doing a little catching up

2009-06-27T16:53:00.000-07:00

So here are a few of the picture-worthy happenings in my life...

My little buddy Taygen had his 2nd birthday a few weeks ago...what a cutie! He loves his cake!

Taygen's Aunt Kara and her sweet little girl.

Hannah and I took ANOTHER trip to Montana this past week. We planned on helping my sister move into her new home and then they didn't close in time. I am starting a new job next week, so I couldn't really change my plans so we went anyway. We got to spend a night up in a cabin in the middle of nowhere and have a campfire and a great time.

My sis swore she would kill me if I posted this picture... hehehe.

The kids posing in front of the cabin... Roasting marshmallows for S'mores.

On the way home we stopped at Idaho Falls. I've driven through there so many times and never stopped and saw what it was all about. Now we know!We headed to the PowWow last night and got rained out.... we were lucky enough to get to see Mrs. Red Elk from school.

We ended up huddled under this tent when the rain and wind started. This guy was nice enough to let us take a pic with him before we ran for the car!

Today we spent some time at the state park taking a few fun pictures and then headed out to the car show.

We found this Woody and the kids HAD to get a picture for their mom.

Hands

2009-06-18T22:27:00.000-07:00

Hannah stopped by to see me at work yesterday. While she was here she asked me for Maria's phone number so she could call her. I grabbed a pen and wrote it in the palm of her hand so she could call when she got home. She opened her hand up and stared at her palm with those great big blue eyes...then she said,

"Mom, I am so glad we have hands!"

Me, too.

Three B's...and a crashed car.

2009-06-08T15:40:00.001-07:00

I told myself that when I finished this last semester I would spend more time blogging...hahaha.

I haven't really done anything except work and more work (and a couple parties, here and there.) The good thing is the paycheck should be looking better, but the blog needs help.

This past week we had three B's... Baby shower, Baptism, and a Birthday Party.

Friday was Kellie's baby shower. I absolutely love Kellie! She is so stinking cute!

(Hannah has Kellie's middle name, that's how much I love her, and she also was there in the delivery room when Hannah was born, so, yeah... we are close) This is her 2nd boy, and we are so very happy for her! Two weeks to go and I'll be posting some photos of the little one...
This is Hannah, Kaden, and Hannah... the bartenders for the event... they were so cute! Kaden would ask, "What can I get'cha?" Then name off the drinks, then one of the Hannah's would ask if we wanted ice or not... it was quite the team. I may hire him for Hannah's b-day party.

Susan Lynn Bosshardt (Hannah's BFF) was baptised on Saturday. What a great day. It was nice to get to meet her Dad and step-mom and their families. The baptism went well and there was plenty of good food afterwards! Susan's family is moving soon, so we were happy to get to share such a special day with them. Here is Susan and her mom, Cherle.
Some of the kids after the baptism... Maria, Hannah, Susan, Ryan, Maya, Preston, and Sammy.

Some of the family and friends that attended the baptism.
Grandma Freddie had her 60th birthday party on Sunday. (I know, all Sarah does is party, party, party...) Ok, so she really isn't even related, but Hannah has called her grandma since she could talk. We are practically family, if that counts. It was just a small get-together with the family and some close friends. Again, Hannah enjoyed getting to catch up and play with the "cousins" and eat more great food. The memory card is getting full so I only took this one picture.
Here is Grandma Freddie and her sisters.

One more little tidbit...
Grandma B's car... On her way home from the store and got hit in the intersection a half a block from her house! Almost 80 years old and never a ticket...
She is doing fine, but unfortunately, she is in need of a new car.

So here we are at another Monday... blah. Back to reality, back to work. Today was also the first day of Tap lessons. We figured we needed a little something to keep us out of trouble this summer. Hannah absolutely loved it!
I'll post more when I'm not out partying...

The Best Day

2009-05-27T14:33:00.000-07:00

We have had a great time the past few days. Lots of friends and family and time together.

Tuesday

Last night we were able to attend the Taylor Swift concert. This was Hannah's first concert and so much fun! I am so glad I was able to be with her for this experience! Kind of bad timing with it being a school night, the poor thing probably fell asleep in class today! We finally got home about midnight and she just kept saying how much fun she had and telling me about her favorite parts of the night.
This is from on our way into the show, the girls stopped for a pose in front of one of the trailers out front...

The opening act was a group called Gloriana, and they were awesome! We went out for the meet and greet so Hannah could get and autograph... she was so excited!

She wants me to frame it and hang it on her wall...

Taylor Swift was amazing! If you ever get a chance to see her...GO! She is an awesome performer and entertainer. My camera battery died as soon as she went on stage.. go figure.
Monday
Well, so here we go back a few days. We spent Memorial Day just hanging out around the house working in the yard and had a little picnic out on the lawn. We went to grandma's house and fed Sunset and put him to bed. Hannah insisted on taking her picture. We were sitting on the lawn having dinner that night and Hannah said to me, "Mom, this was the best day." I agree.Sunday

After church we headed down to the valley and spent the afternoon with my good fried Marie. She has 5 little boys and was feeling a little overwhelmed, so Hannah and I went down to pitch in. Here she is with Bridger, Morgan, and Wyatt.

Bridger is so adorable! I would have brought him home with me if I thought I could have handled him...
This kind-of sums up how you feel when taking care of a 2 year old and 5 month old twins... To sum it up, the past three days have been awesome. I am so blessed to have such good friends and my amazing little girl here with me. I get pretty overwhelmed with school and life sometimes, so it was so good to just be able to spend some time together and have fun. It makes me even more excited for this summer and all of the fun things that we have planned!

Busy Thursday!

2009-05-23T15:55:00.000-07:00

I was able to volunteer and ride along on the field trip with the first grade. We spent the day at the Clark Planetarium and the Children's Museum. We had a super fun time and were exhausted at the end of the day. We saw a fun movie at the planetarium, can't remember the name, but it was about the ocean and some really cool fish!We walked over to the food court and ate our lunches and then posed for a silly picture...Hannah loved the climbing wall at the museum. Hope she doesn't take this new interest to any extremes...
I thought this part of the museum was pretty cool. The Helicopter makes some real cool noises, as you can tell, Hannah wasn't that impressed.The girls got to practice being on TV and anchored the news. It was hilarious to hear them! You can tell who watches the news and who doesn't!We made it home just in time to go home and take some Excedrin... Then we prepped for her big end of the year recital...

Hannah has been taking a singing class this year with Jenny Cook. They get together once a week and sing and dance and learn about being on stage. Hannah and Susan took the class together this year. It made it fun for Hannah and Susan to be able to spend more time together and also made it a little bit easier with us being able to carpool.

I may try and upload some of the video later, but for now, you just get some pictures.

When it was all over we took Susan with us to the Dairy Keen for a shake to celebrate the end of another fun year of singing and being together.

Locks of Love...

2009-05-23T14:13:00.000-07:00

Hannah has been begging for a new haircut for years. She hates long hair and wants to be more independent and "take care" of her own hair. Well, yesterday was the big day for her. We went to "Cookie Cutter" hair salon in Salt Lake to donate her hair for Locks of Love.

http://www.locksoflove.org/

Hannah was so excited she could hardly stand it! I was still thinking to myself, can we change our minds?

The ponytail measurement...They have to have at least a ten inch braid for the donation...

Almost time...No turning back now!

This is the part where I wanted to cry!

So cute! She was very excited to have this done, and I am very proud of her for wanting to help someone else in the process.

Well, I guess this explains it all...

2009-05-18T21:40:00.000-07:00

There's a 24% Chance You've Been Abducted By Aliens

Even though you have a few alien abduction signs, you're almost certainly in the clear.
However, if aliens ever do come to your neck of the woods... they'll probably be coming for you!

http://www.blogthings.com/whatarethechancesthatyouvebeenabductedbyaliensquiz/">What Are the Chances that You've Been Abducted by Aliens?

Happy Belated Mothers Day!

2009-05-14T18:48:00.000-07:00

Sorry I am such a stick in the mud and didn't wish you all a happy Mothers Day before now! I guess it is better late than never, right?
Well, I awoke on Sunday to a cute little girl standing at the foot of my bed with a tray of breakfast. She had two grapefruits, a green apple, and two spoons. She told me happy Mothers day and then crawled in bed with me and we ate breakfast. I'd have taken a picture, but I know what I look like at 7 am...and there was no way I was getting out of bed to get the camera. She handed me an unwrapped shoe box (Duke tradition to not wrap presents...at least it wasn't still in the plastic sack from the store....) with a new church dress in it. Well, we ate breakfast and then got ready for church. P.S. The dress fit, but I think I could exchange it for something a little more my taste and not that of a 6 year old...
We got a yummy treat from the ward (chocolate dipped pretzels) and Hannah leaned over and said "Mom, we are going to cheat today, right?" I said "You BET!" She is so cute to be so mindful of this crazy diet fad I am going through...Well, off to Sunday school, and thank you to the AMAZING Amanda Jones for the brownies! Made the day even better! If you are going to cheat then do it right! :) As soon as we got home we took a gift to Grandma Boren and then went and visited one of my adopted moms, Dottie. Hannah played with the dogs and we had a very nice visit.

We got home and planted flowers in the flower bed... that was my gift to mom.
Last but not least, we met up with Pat and his family to take Mom out to dinner. I wasn't going to cook and I was cheating...haha. I guess you know the rest.

Hannah and I ended the day under a blanket on the chair watching TV.

Kind of a busy day? No, it was a great day.

Mother of the Year

2009-05-09T15:57:00.000-07:00

Enjoy this clip if I didn't email it to you.
Happy Mothers Day to you all!
http://news.cnnbcvideo.com/?nid=eyPoHjrSAt951OBwfGgeLTUzODc4MQ--&referred_by=16233597-bcdn2Hx&p=moveon

Fun stuff!

2009-05-09T15:02:00.000-07:00

It has been nice to be out of school, but unfortunately, I still haven't gotten much done in the blogging department. I've been super busy with the spring cleaning, but at least something is getting done, right? The last few weeks were crazy with finals and soccer and dance and all of that fun stuff. Here are a few pics.I have decided that this year is Hannah's final year for soccer. She is a little too social for soccer. She spends a lot of time doing cartwheels and chatting and dancing out on the field but doesn't seem to be very interested in kicking the ball. I think she spends more time avoiding it. Oh, well. Next spring we will try something different.The first grade did their program this past Thursday and Friday. Hannah got to be a "movie star." She was super excited. She is the 4th from the left in the purple.Here she is with her good friend Liz.
Grandma Boren made it to the program, but you know I can't get her to look at a camera to save her life.

Hannah's uncle Joshua got married on Friday and Hannah got to be a flower girl. She looked so adorable! I have decided I will rent her out to be a flower girl at weddings if you don't have any cute little girls in your family and need one for a day... The rates are steep, but I'll work out a deal for friends. :)
The lighting wasn't great, and I still don't have this whole camera thing figured out, but I took pictures anyway. My cute little Maya... Cherle and I went to lunch yesterday to do some catch up.

I spent the morning at my friend Jamie's baby shower... she is due June 22, but may be going sooner. Good luck to you Jamie! You look great!

CELEBRATE...

2009-05-06T13:27:00.000-07:00

I PASSED MATH!!!!!!!!

Cute shoes

2009-05-05T18:53:00.000-07:00

This morning when Hannah was getting ready for school we had quite an interesting conversation.
She was putting on her cute brown shoes and I told her how cute they were. She asked me if I wanted a pair. I told her that I doubt I could find them in my size, but I would love to have a pair like that and I'd wear them everyday! Then she says to me,

"They'd be so cute on you...and then maybe you could get a boyfriend!"
Gotta love that girl.

I am a dreamer...

2009-04-28T21:20:00.000-07:00

Taking a break from the math "final cram" and found a fun distraction. Not like I didn't know this already, but now I have the proof!

You Are a Dreamer

You are primarily concerned with possibilities. You tend to be a fanciful person.
All of the world's opportunities sometimes overwhelm you.

You are obsessed with ideas and tend to be a big thinker. Theories interest you greatly.
You crave intellectual stimulation. You are drawn to a philosophical way of life.

http://www.blogthings.com/areyouadreameroradoerquiz/">Are You a Dreamer or a Doer?

Well, so a little update for y'all.... Three finals complete (and I did really well, so I am way excited!) and one to go. Tomorrow night I'll finally be done with school for this semester! YAY!!!
I am looking forward to so many things right now...
* the warm weather and spending more time in the sunshine (hoping for summer)
* spending more time with Hannah.
* getting a few more hours at work.
* weeding the flower bed and planting something pretty.
* spring cleaning.
I know those sound like simple things, but those simple things are what keep me sane during the long winter months! Wish me luck and I'll be back soon (another thing I am looking forward to!)

Sarah-Ology.

2009-04-25T19:37:00.000-07:00

Sarahology
Let others know a little more about yourself, re-post this as your name followed by "ology". Then tag those you want to play along...
***********FOODOLOGY***************
What is your salad dressing of choice?* Ranch
What is your favorite sit-down restaurant?* Olive Garden
What food could you eat every day for two weeks and not get sick of?* Yikes, I don’t even like leftovers, so I can’t think of anything.
What are your pizza toppings of choice?* Cheese and fresh tomatoes
What do you like to put on your toast?* Just Butter
***********TECHNOLOGY***************
How many televisions are in your house?* 2
What color is your cell phone?*Pink
***************BIOLOGY******************
Are you right-handed or left-handed?*Right
Have you ever had anything removed from your body?* Yep. 1) Hannah 2) I had a breast reduction about three years ago if that counts.
What was the last heavy item you lifted?* A very awkward mattress
Have you ever been knocked unconscious?* Nope. ************BULLCRAPOLOGY**************
If it were possible, would you want to know the day you were going to die?* Probably not.
If you could change your name, what would you change it to?* I would not be able to decide on just one, so I wouldn’t do it.
Would you drink an entire bottle of hot sauce for $1000?* Maybe…I’m pretty broke right now!************DUMBOLOGY******************
How many pairs of flip flops do you own?* Two
Last time you had a run-in with the cops?* Couple of days ago at work.
Last person you talked to?* Hannah. She wants to stay up late… sigh.
Last person you hugged?*Hannah
**************FAVORITOLOGY****************
Season?* Summer
Holiday?* 4th of July is great.
Day of the week?* Sunday
Month?* July.
***********CURRENTOLOGY*****************
Missing someone?* Always.
Mood?* Exhausted.
What are you listening to?* Itunes.
Watching?*
Weird people coming in and out of the hotel.
Worrying about?* Finals. And my family.
***************RANDOMOLOGY*****************
First place you went this morning?* To feed to cows in Wallsburg.
What's the last movie you saw?* Hannah Montana
Do you smile often?* Yes. Often.
Sleeping Alone Tonight?* I wish. I am sure Hannah is in my bed already.
****************OTHER-OLOGY*****************
Do you always answer your phone?* Depends who it is…so no.
Its four in the morning and you get a text message, who is it?* Probably Becky.
If you could change your eye color what would it be?* I like my eyes.
What flavor do you add to your drink at Sonic?* I don't go to Sonic
Do you own a digital camera?* Yep
Do you have a pet fish?* No.Favorite Christmas song(s)* I like them all!
What's on your wish list for your birthday?* A nice long vacation…
Can you do push ups?*Yep
Can you do a chin up?* Maybe…
Does the future make you more nervous or excited?* Both
Do you have any saved texts?* Yes
Ever been in a car wreck?* Yes
Do you have an accent?*No
What is the last song to make you cry?* Sissy’s Song…Alan Jackson
Plans tonight?* Work. Another sigh.
Have you ever felt like you hit rock bottom?* Yes, but I am on the way up again.
Name 3 things you bought yesterday.* NOTHING! Hooray!
Have you ever been given roses?*Yes
Current hate right now?* Finals.
Met someone who changed your life?* Definitely.
How will you bring in the New Year?* No plans…It is only April!
What song represents you?* Gunpowder and Lead… just kidding. I don’t have a clue.
Name three people who might complete this?* Cherle, Rachel and Tori. I think you are the only ones who ever read my blog!
Would you go back in time if you were given the chance?* No, but I’d like to run back and grab my old body and drag it here to the present….
Do you have any tattoos/piercings?* Ears.
Will you be in a relationship 4 months from now?* That is debatable.
Would you be a pirate?* Probably not.
What songs do you sing in the shower?*Whatever song woke me that day.
Ever had someone sing to you?*Yes…it was weird.
When did you last cry?* Yesterday.
Are you afraid of being alone?* Terrified
Do you like to cuddle?* Yes.
Have you held hands with anyone today?* No
Who was the last person you took a picture of?* Hannah
What kind of music did you listen to in elementary school?* Country
Do you believe in staying close with your ex?* No.
Are most of the friends in your life new or old?* A little of both.
Do you like pulpy orange juice?* Yes.
What is something your friends make fun of you for?* I change my mind…. A lot.
I tag anyone who wants to play!!

Cheating.

2009-04-23T16:17:00.000-07:00

To make a long story short, I guess I just say that I went on a diet (again). I did great for a week, no sugar, no bread, no carbs....then BAM!, out of the blue I had the worst craving ever! Anyone who knows me knows that I would rather eat something salty than sweet, so when this mad craving set in for a doughnut I about died! I don't even like doughnuts when I am not on a diet! Anyway, I fought with it all day...drove to Provo and the only thought on my mind was where the nearest gas station was so I could cheat!!! Well, after discussing it with my dad, I decided to go for it. What was the worst thing that could happen? I could gain back the 6 pounds I lost or have a heart attack from the sugar. That's about the worst of it.
So Hannah and I drove to the convenience store to buy our doughnut after school. As I am driving home (eating my doughnut cause I can't wait until I get out of the car) Hannah says to me,

"Mom, are you cheating?" I told her yes and that I was enjoying it! Well, she looks at me in this very thoughtful way and says, "I learned about that at church. You have been doing so good, staying on the path and keeping straight (as she moves her hand through the air in a steady motion...) then, you run into a little ditch. But that is okay, because that is why you get baptized, because then a bridge is built over it and it is like it never even happened!"

From the mouths of babes...
Well, I smiled and thought of my dear daughter, she is so sweet. (She also thinks her mom is skinny, shhhh!) And you know, I don't feel so guilty about cheating. And ya know what else? I only gained 4 ounces with that big cheat (I failed to mention the spaghetti and garlic bread for dinner). But today I am back on track. And I am feeling even better about what I am doing because I know that I am in control here.

Spring Break and Easter Vacation

2009-04-18T14:42:00.000-07:00

I really should be studying for my math final, but I just need to have a nice little break and blog! I never thought it would be addicting, but I guess it is. My memory card is chuck full from the last few weeks, so I hope that putting all of this in the blog will make me feel a little bit better.

Hannah and I spent her Spring Break up in Montana with Heather and her family. The kids pretty much just wanted to play the whole time. I took Hannah and Tori to see the new Hannah Montana movie and Heather took TJ to see Monsters V Aliens. I went on a ride along with Jared on Friday night...that was interesting! We colored eggs and had an egg hunt and just had a great time.

This is Tori's new hair cut, she wanted to show it off a bit. She was very proud of the fact that her dad took her to the "beauty parlor."

We spent the first day at the hot springs in Boulder. It was a bit chilly outside but the water was great! The only downside to the trip was the "swimsuit optional" thing...We went to this cute little pizza place for lunch... Don't remember the name but the pizza was amazing!
We colored eggs on Saturday morning, I was quite sleep deprived from my night out with the cops, lol. Those are supposed to be "kissy" faces, not rotten egg faces. For some reason Heather likes to get me in on the photo action, especially when my hair looks like crap and I have no make up on. I will get even, I promise!So this was probably the funniest part of the whole trip... TJ is obsessed with the whole Army/Police/Swat/gun thing. He does these moves all over the house, even once while we were walking into a restaurant for lunch. His new nickname is "Private Ryan"

We did make it home in time to make it to church on Sunday. Mom and Dad came to Sacrament with us, then we headed home for a little nap. (Well, I took a nap, Hannah watched TV.) Aunt Diann invited us over for dinner and an easter egg hunt, so we spent the rest of the day with them.

Raquelle, Lucy, Hannah and Caroline waiting patiently for the hunt to begin!

Diann had made an egg with every ones name on it, so in the end we divided them up so everyone could take their own egg home, but judging from Caroline's face, I don't think she wanted to give hers up!It sucks when mom makes you stop and pose when you are in a mad dash to collect treats!

We had a great time... thanks Heather for letting us come stay again, but have decided that it is Heather's turn to come and see us!!!

I just realized how many photos I took today at Jills baby shower...hmmm, to post or not to post...

Too funny!!! Had to post it...

2009-04-16T19:29:00.000-07:00

IMPORTANT HEALTH ADVICE FOR WOMEN

* Do you have feelings of inadequacy?

* Do you suffer from shyness?

* Do you sometimes wish you were more assertive?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist about Margaritas. Margaritas are the safe, natural way to feel better and more confident about yourself and your actions.

Margaritas can help ease you out of your shyness and let you tell the world that you're ready and willing to do just about anything.You will notice the benefits of Margaritas almost immediately and with a regimen of regular doses you can overcome any obstacles that prevent you from living the life you want to live. Shyness and awkwardness will be a thing of the past and you will discover many talents you never knew you had.
Stop hiding and start living, with Margaritas.

**Margaritas may not be right for everyone. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not use Margaritas. However, women who wouldn't mind nursing or becoming pregnant are encouraged to try it.**

Side effects may include:
- Dizziness, nausea, vomiting, incarceration

- Erotic lustfulness
- Loss of motor control

- Loss of clothing

- Loss of money

- Loss of virginity

- Loss of bladder control

- Attraction to ugly men

- Table dancing

- Headache

- Dehydration

- Dry mouth

- And a desire to sing Karaoke

WARNING: The consumption of Margaritas may make you think you are whispering when you are not. The consumption of Margaritas may cause you to tell your friends over and over again that you love them. The consumption of Margaritas may cause you to think you can sing. The consumption of Margaritas may make you think you can logically converse with members of the opposite sex without spitting.*Margaritas are also available in generic form, known as tequila. Just as effective at only a fraction of the cost.

Dad's 60th Birthday Party

2009-04-07T16:40:00.000-07:00

I finally got around to posting the few pictures I got at Dad's dinner! I can't believe that two weeks have passed already...

Anyway, here is Abby with Dad's "Bonfire cake" I barely got Mom in the picture (she hides, as we all know) Abby, Zach, Chance, Dad, Arianne, and Hannah.

Pat, Angie, and Trevor

Ryley and Hannah

Like I mentioned before, we had a great time and the food was delicious... Can't wait for the next birthday/dinner/get-together!

Just stuff...

2009-04-05T07:21:00.001-07:00

I got a little ahead of myself and never posted any pictures from Dad's b-day party this year. On March 26 my Dad turned 60! We were all a little unsure what to do with/for him for this one, yet didn't want him to feel bad for us making such a big fuss. He decided to settle on a quiet (haha) dinner/bbq out at Abby's house. ( Yeah, 6 kids plus an extra sleep-over friend running around Abby's house... not so quiet after all) Ab and Eddy made some delicious ribs and we all just brought the rest. The kids got a big kick out of how many candles Grandpa had on his cake. I didn't know what to get him as far as a gift... guess I am just not good at that, but I ended up buying him a big box of steaks for the freezer! I know, kinda lame, but at least I know these won't get put on a shelf and forgotten!
I have a few photos to post, but since I am supposed to be working, I can't upload them at the moment. I'll play catch up again sometime soon.
Spring break (for Hannah) is upon us... She is spending some time with her Dad and Amber right now, but as soon as I get out of school on Wednesday, we Heber gals are headed back to Montana to spend the Easter Weekend with Heather and her family. No official plans yet, just know we are going to hang out and have fun!
...then I should have some great stories to post!!!
Have an awesome spring break!

Just a reminder...

2009-03-31T16:37:00.000-07:00

I don't know how many of you on here know my brother and his family. This is Pat and Angie, along with their boys, Ryley, Zach, and Trevor. Pat called me at work on Saturday night to tell me that his family had been in a crash near their home in Spanish Fork. "This is our car after getting rear ended at 65 mph. Everyone walked away with minor cuts and bumps, and we are all very sore today from the impact. The driver of the other vehicle was also uninjured. Everyone was in seat belts and boosters in our car...for those of you who know, I've already had one major car accident so I'm a firm believer in seat belts. The boys were quite traumatized, but seem to be doing much better today. Thanks for all the calls and messages.

The point of this post is just a little reminder for us all to wear our seat belts."

This is my chance to echo his message. Wear your seat belts, please. If you are reading this, it is because you know me. Chances are, if I know you, I care deeply about you and want to keep you around!!!

We are firm believers that seat belts save lives.

(I just wish we didn't have pictures to prove it!)

Pay it forward...

2009-03-26T21:48:00.000-07:00

I saw this on Jenny's blog and it sounded like fun! The first three people to comment on this post will receive a gift from me within the next year. You don't get to know when or what it is, but before you comment, you have to do a post like this and offer 3 gifts to the first three comments on your post so we can share the love. What do you think? Hurry, post and then comment!! Can't wait to share the love!!!

A very busy week...

2009-03-24T09:09:00.000-07:00

but I got pictures!!!

Midterms are finally over, so I can breathe again.... unfortunately, that means that finals are right around the corner! (I know, shut up, Sarah, quit complaining)

Here are some fun pictures from my spring break. It was very short but much needed.

Hannah's dance studio did their class pictures on Wednesday. It is the first time this semester I have been able to take her to class. She looked so adorable I just had to take my own pictures.

And of course, she had to pet Momma Kitty on the way out the front door.

Hannah and her good friend Samantha. Aren't they just adorable!

We decided to take a quick up to Montana and see Heather and her family. We didn't have a lot of time to do much, but the kids got to play. Hannah loves to trim her toenails, and apparently, so does Tori. It was much more fun than watching videos.

Hannah forgot her swimsuit so we had to make a quick trip to K-mart. You can't stay at a hotel with a pool and not take advantage of that. I am a little concerned with this pose, though...
And a pose from TJ... these kids don't like the camera at all, do they?

Heather convinced Hannah that it was time to get her ears pierced. Hannah had avoided it because my Mom has told her over and over again how bad it would hurt. Well, I suppose Heather won...
Marking up the ears, they better be straight...

One down... Breathe, Hannah!

All done. Not so bad, huh?

Dad waited in the hall the whole time. Thanks for the moral support.

One more for the road.

We made it back in time for church, then slipped out early to go to Ryleigh's blessing. Kara and Jared are pretty much family, so I just had to be there.

Here is some of the family. Freddie and Tom (Kara's parents), Jared, Jared's mom, Kara and Ryleigh, Uncle Glenn and Dorena.

Hannah and Ryleigh. Such cute girls.

Well, this was a blog over-load. Congrats if you made it to the end!

Something to think about

2009-03-17T18:41:00.000-07:00

I just completed an assignment for my ethics class, and thought I'd share with you something I read. There is an essay from some philosopher that is all about men and women and how they feel about love and marriage. She is basically saying that all women want in life is the "happily ever after", a.k.a.: Marriage.

She then lists these "promises" that come along with it:

You will have someone to make you happy.
You will be loved and cherished.
You will be cared for and protected from all the dangers of the
world.
You will have sexual intimacy and satisfaction.
You will have someone to understand and support you.
You will have companionship and safety from loneliness.
You will have a father for your children.
You will be socially secure as a part of a couple.
You will have a place in this world, a meaning, and you will love it.
You will gain status and prestige as someones chosen wife.
You will not be an old maid.
You will be financially secure.
You will be happy.

Um, okay...

Marriage does not guarantee happiness.

There. I said it.

And why can't you have those things if you aren't married? Here goes my response...

I don't need anyone to make me happy. That is my job. If I make others happy along the way... BONUS! but that isn't any ones job but my own.

I am loved and cherished. My family loves me. My daughter thinks that the Sun sets and rises because of me. She also thinks that I can make coins disappear, then magically reappear in her ear! She also thinks that I am the best artist, a world class chef, and my kisses can heal the biggest hurts. She can't sleep at night until she has had a hug and a kiss or told me that she loves me.

I am loved.

I will be protected from the world... man, that is a good one. Doesn't she realize that we can't be protected from everything? Crap is gonna happen. No man or husband will keep me from getting hurt. What I can do is make good choices and try to live in a way to avoid things that I know are going to cause me heartache. And what if I do get hurt? Well, I will do as I have always done, and I will try to learn from my mistakes and make myself better for what I have learned.

Sexual intimacy? Satisfaction? Seriously? I know a lot of married people who can't say that they have that... And for the record...you can live without it, trust me.

I have people who support me. Understand me... well, that is another topic! My friends and family are amazing and would do anything for me. There are members of my ward who have shown me great acts of service and love. Just this past year a large amount of money appeared on my doorstep just in time for Christmas...then shortly after that, an anonymous gift was also left on the door. People are so thoughtful. I also have one good friend who calls me just to tell me she is thinking of me.

No one can be safe from being lonely. It can happen when you are in a room surrounded by a hundred people. I will admit, sometimes the loneliness creeps up on me and takes me by surprise. That is when I surround myself with good things and amazing people and I chase all the bad away. Sometimes it is harder than others, but I know I can deal with it.

I have a father for my daughter. He doesn't live with us, but he is still her father and loves her. I always wondered how it would work out, but he and his wife have stepped up to the plate and are wonderful. I just don't tell them enough. Hannah also has the most amazing Grandpa in the world. He stands in place for her dad because he isn't here everyday. He is an amazing example to her and it has been wonderful to have that male influence in our lives.

Someone has to kill the spiders, right?

Being socially secure as part of a couple...ok...I have never felt socially secure as part of a couple... I could go deep into this one, but I'll leave it alone.

My life DOES have meaning. I have a place in this world... I may not love all of the details right now, but one day I will have fine tuned this life of mine to be what it was meant to be.

I AM an old maid. Deal with it. Does that make me a bad person? Just because I am attracted to losers? OK, had to throw that one in... But really, am I less of a person because I don't have a husband?

An old friend of mine doesn't have any children, so is she less of a person because of that? I don't think so. I love her anyway.

I admit, I am not financially secure, but is anyone right now? I know some people have saved and planned and have nice incomes, I am happy for you, I really am. That is something I am working on, and hopefully before I am done with my degree I will have it mastered.

"You will be happy"

Who ever said that I wasn't?

OK, so I know that was a long, drawn out post, and I am sure my brother is rolling his eyes at me, thinking that I am bitter and jaded. But I just had to throw that out there... I want you to not feel sorry for me for "being alone" if that is how you want to refer to it... Hey, World, this is me, and I fully intend on being happy no matter what you throw at me.

Bring it on.

Correction...Walk Like MADD!!!

2009-03-14T11:37:00.000-07:00

If you notice I have a cute new link next to this post! I am a virtual walker for the Walk Like MADD campaign! No, I am not headed to Denver for the walk, it is just the closest city to put down for my registration. I'm not on here to ask for donations....hint, hint, but if you would like to help out, just click on the link on the right.

Oops, wrong number!

2009-03-14T09:22:00.000-07:00

I just had the cutest phone call! It wasn't even for me and I am still smiling!
I'm just sitting here at work trying to stay awake and the phone rings... The cutest, tiniest voice said "Hi momma, I love you! I miss you!" That's when I realized it wasn't my child! So I asked her, is your dad there? Can I talk to your dad? I just wanted to let them know they called the wrong number, then the little voice says, here's so-and-so, and another even more tiny voice comes on the line... "Hi momma love you!" Then some chatter about lunch and grandpa, this one had to be well under two... Anyway, eventually I heard a loud, grown up voice holler..."Quit playing on the phone, hang up!" And it all ended. It was cute anyway!

One day at a time

2009-03-12T20:34:00.000-07:00

Two posts in one day, wow, I am on one. I just received this thought in my email and wanted to share it with you all.

"One day at a time - this is enough. Do not look back and
grieve over the past, for it is gone: and do not be troubled about the future,
for it has not yet come. Live in the present, and make it so beautiful that it
will be worth remembering."
Ida Scott Taylor1820-1915, Author

Wow.

2009-03-12T07:43:00.000-07:00

That's about all I can say about this week. Wow. Midterms have never been my favorite thing in the world, and I'm sure I've voiced many complaints on this topic. I am just glad that they are over.
School is still stressing me out. I feel like a big failure in the mothering department, and my job is so dead end that it makes me roll my eyes. Now don't get me wrong, I am lucky to have a job with some great people and it is very flexible... I am just needing to vent and complain a bit.
Last week I had a pretty big meltdown over it. I realized that due to my lovely work and school schedules, and the fact that I can't let Hannah stay up and wait for me to get home at midnight, that last week we spent a total of 6 hours together. And that wasn't quality time, either. It was a lot of "Get up, we are going to be late!" and a little of "Yes, you ARE taking a bath before you go to bed!" I think I was pretty mean this week. Anyway, I have come to the conclusion that something has got to change. I contemplated just dropping out, but then reality smacked me in the face and reminded me that I am halfway to my degree and I would be a complete idiot to stop now. Even worse, I am planning on changing schools this next fall, and I am a little unsure about where we need to go. Salt Lake has crossed my mind, I even considered Minnesota for a brief moment... Like I said, this week has been something else.
Well, to make a long story short, I need to be a little bit nicer to my daughter. When I come home at the end of the day, I need to leave all the craziness back at school or at work. I just have to learn to relax! I need to work on that thing called "quality time." Hannah is going to be home this Friday night, so I think we are going to have to plan ourselves a fun date. If you have any ideas as to what I can do to make up for being such a beast, let me know.

Ashlee's night on broadway...

2009-03-07T14:22:00.000-08:00

I have been meaning to do this post for over a week now, but with the craziness of school and midterms...well, I don't need to explain any more. Anyway, here is our fun from last weekend...

We got the chance to go and see Ashlee do her dance/singing performance last weekend down in Pleasant Grove. Angie and Charley were there with the boys and Aunt Bev came down also. Grandma Boren was going to go with me, but she got sick so she didn't make it down. We met up with everyone at Melisa's house and had some dinner and then headed to the school. After the performance we all went out for dessert to celebrate Josh's birthday. We had a really good time and Hannah loved spending time with the cousins.

Ashlee has on the orange hat and the green scarf... sorry the pic's aren't very good.

Hannah wanted to bring Ashlee a flower for after her performance (Hannah loves to get flowers from her Dad when he comes and watches her dance recitals)

Melisa and Ashlee, so adorable.

The cousins: Hannah, Ashlee, Josh, Corey, and Dallen...(love Dallen's pose!)

How much I have changed in...

2009-03-05T20:13:00.000-08:00

So I was tagged on facebook, but since I am blog-less I figured I would post it here...
Here goes nothing...
HOW MUCH HAVE YOU CHANGED IN 15 YEARS?
****15 YEARS AGO (1994)****
1) How old were you? 17
2) Who were you dating? Scott Stokes (well, we did prom but weren't actually dating...I was pretty shy)
3) Where did you work? Timp Freeze
4) Where did you live? Heber
5) Where did you hang out? Dragging Main
6) Did you wear contacts and/or glasses? no
7) Who was your best friend? Jessi Bennett, Nancy Lee, Melisa Berg...
8) How many tattoos did you have? none
9) How many piercings did you have? Probably like 3 in my ears, it was cool back then
10) What kind of car did you drive? A HUGE grey Chevy Caprice Classic...it was hot... lol
11) Had you been to a real party? No way
12) Had you had your heart broken? A dozen times at least...
13) Were you Single/taken/Married/Divorced? Yeah, I was 17, so I was single.
14) Any Kids? No, but around here, I knew alot of girls my age (and younger) with babies.

***10 YEARS AGO (1999)***
1) How old were you?22
2) Who were you dating? I don't remember! That is pretty pathetic... He must have been a loser...
3) Where did you work? The Hub
4) Where did you live? Heber
5) Where did you hang out? At the Hub, and Denny's, and Deer Creek (in the summer)
6) Did you wear contacts and/or glasses? no
7) Who was your best friend? Kellie Bell, John Briggs, and Geri Dahl
8) How many tattoos did you have? None
9) How many piercings did you have? The same...and my tongue
10) What kind of car did you drive? A blue VW Fox... another HOT car... lol
11) Had your heart broken? Always.
12) Were you Single/Taken/Married/Divorced? Still Single...
13) Any Kids? no
****TODAY (2009)****
1) Age? 32, but it feels like 82 today...
2) Who are you dating? No one worth blogging about
3) Where do you work? Holiday Inn
4) Where do you live? Heber
5) Who is your best friend? Hannah. And Geri, Becky, Tawnya, and Cherle
6) Do you talk to your old friends? Sure do...Thanks to Facebook.
7) How many piercings do you have? Just the ears
8) How many tattoos? none
9) What kind of car do you have? My old beater Civic... 278,000 miles later... love this car!
10) Had your heart been broken? Just keep rubbing it in...
11) How many kids? Just my Hannah
12) Are you Single/Taken/Married/Divorce? Single and happy!

OK.... Now I refuse to tag anyone... but if you feel like wasting some time, go for it!

Another Tag From Cherle

2009-02-28T10:26:00.000-08:00

I swore I wouldn't do this post...I figured if you didn't know the story by now, then well, you don't need to. But I will play along and be nice.. :) In all honesty, I am only doing this to avoid studying for midterms.

First Born Tag

1. WAS YOUR FIRST PREGNANCY PLANNED? Nope. I was single and living the high life and, BAM! Reality hit.

2. WHAT WERE YOUR REACTIONS? I cried for two days. Called in sick to work. Yeah, it was a tough thing.

3. HOW OLD WERE YOU? 24

4. WHERE DID YOU LIVE? Salt Lake

5. HOW DID YOU FIND OUT YOU WERE PREGNANT? I had been getting really sick in the mornings...not throwing up, but feeling like I was going to. Someone jokingly said to me "Are you pregnant?" That got the wheels turning... After a trip to the nearest K-mart for a test, (and a can of spaghetti-o's, I know, that sounds disgusting, but they sounded good at the time) I went back home to do the test. Let's just say I didn't eat my spaghetti-o's.

6. WHO DID YOU TELL FIRST? Hannah's Dad...then my best friend.

7. DID YOU WANT TO FIND OUT THE SEX? Yes

8. DUE DATE? It changed a couple of times, but the last one they gave me was July 29, 2002.

9. DID YOU HAVE MORNING SICKNESS? Yes. For about 4 months.

10. WHAT DID YOU CRAVE? I didn't really crave anything. I did eat ice cream every night for a month.

11. WHO/WHAT IRRITATED YOU THE MOST? People asking me "what I was going to do about being single and pregnant." Idiots.

12. WHAT WAS YOUR CHILD'S SEX? Girl

13. DID YOU WISH YOU HAD THE OPPOSITE SEX OF WHAT YOU WERE GETTING? No

14. HOW MANY POUNDS DID YOU GAIN THROUGHOUT THE PREGNANCY? 12

15. DID YOU HAVE A BABY SHOWER? Yes. Just a little one.

16. WAS IT A SURPRISE OR DID YOU KNOW? I knew.

17. DID YOU HAVE ANY COMPLICATIONS DURING YOUR PREGNANCY? Not until the delivery.

18. WHERE DID YOU GIVE BIRTH? Utah Valley

19. HOW MANY HOURS WERE YOU IN LABOR? about 4

2o. WHO DROVE YOU TO THE HOSPITAL? My mom

21. WHO WATCHED YOU GIVE BIRTH? My friend Kellie was there for the c-section

22. WAS IT NATURAL OR C-SECTION? Emergency C-section. She was breech and I had a partial placental abruption, so I had no choice.

23. DID YOU TAKE MEDICINE TO EASE THE PAIN? I had an epidural, plus some drugs they had given prior to stop the labor and make me happy. It was good.

24. DID YOU YELL AT YOUR HUSBAND? I guess if I had one that may be a different story... but I didn't have one to yell at. Besides, I as unconscious for 3 days lol. They were REALLY good drugs.

25. Who does your child look like? Everyone says me, but I don't know. She has her dads eyes and height, but my personality lol

26. HOW MUCH DID YOUR CHILD WEIGH? 4lbs 11oz, 16 inches

27. WHEN WAS YOUR CHILD ACTUALLY BORN? July 3, 2002

28. WHAT DID YOU NAME HIM/HER? Hannah Jo Duke

29. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO NAME HIM/HER WHAT YOU DID? I saw this cute little girl named Hannah at a school play...just couldn't get it off my mind. The Jo was to rebel against my family tradition of no middle names for girls. I'm such a rebel.

30. HOW OLD IS YOUR FIRST BORN TODAY? 6 1/2

**Now for the fun to spread (Tag 5 people)- I tag: anyone who wants to do it...Have fun with that trip down memory lane!

Love notes

2009-02-23T20:48:00.000-08:00

Hannah told me about love notes today. I was laying on the couch and she was doodling on a piece of paper and she says, "Do you know you don't get love notes until you are in middle school...or college?" Then I asked her where she heard about love notes anyway. Hannah said something about one of her friends at school has a sister in middle school and she gets love notes from boys all of the time. I closed my eyes pretending to fall asleep and I hear her say under her breath...

"I hope I don't get any love notes from a boy...and I
am never going to give one either."

I just had to smile.

Happy Birthday Geri!

2009-02-22T12:56:00.000-08:00

Today is my friend Geri's 50th Birthday. We met about 12 years when we were all working at the Hub Cafe. I wasn't sure what to do for her for her b-day, so I planned a little surprise party/dinner for her and invited some of her closest friends. I took her out to the Mountain House Grill where everyone was waiting to surprise her. Here are some pictures from the party Friday night.

Geri and her super cute cake. They had a little grave dug out of the cake with a cute little shovel. wish the pictures would have turned out a little better.

April and Isaac

John and Xander

Hannah loves the camera for some reason...

April, Issac, and John

Sean and Becky

Xander couldn't decide where to sit so he parked by Sean for a bit...

Becky, Geri, Kellie, Annie and Xander.

Shellye, Mom and Kellie...all ignoring me.

Kellie and Dad...I don't think he was expecting the picture... :)

We had a great time...I am so glad it is over, though, becaue I suck at keeping secrets.

Valentines Party at the Binghams

2009-02-20T14:50:00.000-08:00

We had a great time last weekend for Valentines Day. I watched Pat and Angies kids Friday night so Melisa and I decided we needed to PARTY!

We all met over at Melisa and Ericks house (thanks again for providing the house guys, you rock!) and Angie and Charley brought the boys over. Erick also had three of his cousins kids there, so I believe the head count of kids under the age of 12 was 13!

We ate pizza, decorated cookies, and watched the new Pokemon movie. It was a great time and I can't wait until we can all get together again.

Charley and Josh

Ryley and his adorable cookie

Zach and Dallin

I helped Angie surprise Pat for Valentines Day this year. He had no idea that they were not going to be coming home after dinner, so he called and checked in and said he would just meet us at Melisa's house after they were done with dinner. Well, since I helped plan the surprise, I knew they weren't going to show. Hannah and I spent the night in Spanish Fork with the boys. Saturday morning we got up and had some breakfast and they taught me how to play Wii. It was tons of fun and the kids really got along well. Here is a cute video of the game. I missed Zacks strike, but got him to show me his "strike pose" afterwards.

Way to go guys!

The google name game...

2009-02-17T21:24:00.001-08:00

And because I am bored.
Follow the directions and see what you come up with...I thought it was pretty funny.

1. Type in "[your name] needs" in Google search
Sarah needs a cold shower, self esteem.

2. Type in "[your name] looks like" in Google search
Sarah looks like Nicole Ritchie in this picture!

3. Type in "[your name] says" in Google search.
Sarah says don’t say holy moly out loud because once you start, you can't stop. ... And the dentist squeezed my head and said, "You are being a very bad girl SARAH!"

4. Type in "[your name] wants" in Google search
Sarah wants to raise my children to be compassionate people.

5. Type in "[your name] does" in Google search
Sarah does not eat humans.

6. Type in "[your name] hates" in Google search
Sarah hates you.

7. Type in "[your name] asks" in Google search
Sarah asks about age and productivity

8. Type in "[your name] goes" in Google search
Sarah goes to Lake Placid...again.

9. Type in "[your name] likes” in Google search.
Sarah likes to smell colleen’s armpits

10. Type in "[your name] eats” in Google search
Sarah eats cake.

11. Type in "[your name] wears” in Google search
Sarah wears a bra and shoes sometimes. She even color-coordinates them. The fact that she's just about to leave for the gym and she's only got on black and white are both facts truly beside the point!

12. Type in "[your name] was arrested for" in Google Search
Sarah was arrested for cutting buckets of water that would put out the fire.

No computer before bedtime...

2009-02-09T21:22:00.000-08:00

I admit it. I played on facebook way too late last night. Some little devil on my shoulder would not let me sleep until I finished up my "25 random things about me" note.

What the hell was I thinking???

Needless to say, I dreamed facebook ALL NIGHT LONG. It was such a crazy dream...I kept getting these IM's and I had to respond to them immediately...I couldn't ignore them. These weren't normal little chats, they were things like requests to build buildings and write research papers. I was freaking out and overwhelmed and praying the battery on my computer would die so I could go to sleep! I kept waking up and telling myself I was dreaming and to go back to sleep, but I just kept going back to that stupid facebook dream. Yikes. Then I dreamt that I hadn't completed my paper for my ethics class. Then I really couldn't sleep. Needless to say, I am hoping for some good rest tonight.

Busy Friday...

2009-02-07T15:34:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was just one of those crazy days... Hannah had a dental appointment early in Salt Lake (our dentist moved and I wasn't about to find a new one...) so we had to leave the house around 7 am. Of course, I was grumpy from working late and Hannah was grumpy for getting woke up early...we were a match made in heaven!

The dentist is concerned with Hannah having no room in her little mouth for new teeth to come in, and wants us to consult with an orthodontist and have teeth pulled! She freaked out. She wouldn't even let him touch her loose tooth, the one that has been loose for two months...yes, you read that right, two months. So off we head into the slush to get her to school.

This is when she reminds me that she hasn't had breakfast, so we swing into McD's for a sandwich and she begs me for hot chocolate. I give in and we head for home. About half way up Parley's she informs me that "this hot chocolate tastes gross" so I have her hand it over so I can drink it. I take one sip and realize they have given my 6 year old one of their fancy little whipped-cream-topped mocha drinks! Holy crap! My daughter had coffee for breakfast!

So, mother-of-the-year here drops her off at school so they can deal with her caffeine O.D.

I picked up Grandma and headed back to Park City to meet up with Aunt Dana. We headed back to Salt Lake to meet up with Pat and Ang and have lunch with Ahn. It was super fun, and I was so glad to finally meet Clint's adorable girlfriend!

So now back to Heber to get Hannah from school. We do some things around the house and then I drive back to Salt Lake to drop Hannah off to her dad for the weekend. My plans for the night had fallen through, so Geri and Becky and I decided on a girls night...We saw "He's just not that into you." Sorry to say it, but I was a bit disappointed. But the popcorn...now that was worth it.

I hadn't realized that every freaking exit in Salt Lake is shut down for construction...so I had to make several detours to get on a road that I felt I could navigate. Every idiotic driver in Salt Lake County met me on the freeway...I had a little moment of road rage...We'll leave it at that.

So there it is, crazy day for me. All I can say is that I was exhausted when I got home!

Glad to be back in good 'ole Heber.

Ice Fishing and a cabin trip

2009-02-01T18:00:00.000-08:00

We were invited by the Bednars (a.k.a. Cherle and Rob and family) to go to the cabin and do a little ice fishing this weekend.
Here we are getting loaded up for our hike into the cabin.

Hannah and Susan hamming it up for the camera.

Cherle and I taking a little photo op for ourselves

It was only about a block long walk to get into the cabin, but as you can tell, there was a whole lot of snow and no trail. I have a new appreciation for the pioneers after my walk into the cabin!

Hannah and Susan played a game of war while Cherle and I got lunch ready.

Hannah was obviously exhausted from all of the fun and passed out on the way to fish.
Rob took the kids out on the lake for a bit to fish while Cherle and I stayed nice and warm in the van with the baby. We got a chance to sit and do some reading in between all the much needed girl talk.
I can't wait to do it again, but really want to wait until all or most of the snow is gone!

Blocks, Birthday bears, Temples and Weddings

2009-01-27T21:02:00.000-08:00

Here goes an attempt to sum up the weekend...

I went to one of my very favorite people in the worlds house Thursday morning (Ms Rachel Crane, to be precise) and got to catch up on one of my blocks. It was so nice to get another one done! I have missed the quilting night for the last few months due to work or school, so it was a much needed activity. I loved it so much that I may just go buy a sewing machine so I can work on it at home...
Teresa
Vicky and Teresa

I got to visit with Vicky and Jenny and Teresa and Jenn even stopped by...(with some yummy treats), but work was calling. I wish I could have stayed all day!

Friday I had an awesome b-day. Hannah and I spent the morning in Provo to do a little shopping (she picked me out a new church dress). As we walked through the mall she tells me that she wants to take me to Build a bear and make me a bear for my birthday. Since we didn't have anything better to do, I gave in. Hannah made a cute little blue bear and I made myself a pink b-day monkey. It was way fun.
Hannah named her bear 'Kameron' and I named that cute lil' monkey of mine 'Pinkey'

We headed home and cleaned up a bit to go for a tour of the new temple in Draper. We took Mom and Dad and Pat and Angie and the kids met us down there. I also had 4 of my friends meet up with us, so that was fun. I really enjoyed being able to sit in the Celestial room with my family. That is something I have never experienced and it was such an amazing thing. I loved that Hannah was there with me. She used to ask me when I went to the temple where I was going and why...you could tell she just didn't understand it. Now that she has been there and we have talked about it I think it will be easier (as easy as it is for a 6 year old) to understand.

Well, then we were off to dinner! Abby and Eddy and the kids met up with us in Salt Lake and I got to have my Prime Rib dinner...yum. It was an awesome day.

Saturday I spent the day being lazy until I had to help with a wedding. My friend April's step-daughter was getting married and she cashed in some friendship dues and put me on kitchen duty/photography. I had a great time just being there to help out. I actually ended up helping Jessica (the bride) get dressed while everyone else was getting ready. The wedding was so sweet and I got some really cute pictures. It made me a little sad that the groom didn't have any family there (they live in Peru as I understand) so I was glad I could do kitchen duty so the family could all just be together during the reception.

April and Roger
The bride and groom
So that about sums up my eventful b-day weekend. I'm glad to get back into the regular routine again and slow down!

What I want for my birthday...

2009-01-22T16:36:00.000-08:00

People keep asking me what I want for my birthday. I'm starting to get frustrated with the question. I appreciate the thought…but, honestly, I haven’t thought much about it until today when my dad asked me that question. (Apparently Hannah is in a panic because she hasn’t bought me anything yet, and wants him to take her shopping.) It’s not like being young and dreaming daily of that one thing that will make the day absolutely perfect. So what do I want…? Well, after much reflection I have come up with a top 10*

1. I want to learn algebra. I mean really learn and understand so that I don’t have a full blown panic attack every Monday and Wednesday at 5:30 when I show up to class. Isn’t there some magic pill that you could take that instantly makes you good at something? That is what I want.
2. I want to read the book “He’s just not that into you” by Greg Behrendt. If you have noticed my track record lately, it is obvious that I really need to read that book. And see the movie. And pay attention. And apply what the dude says so I won’t keep getting myself into such …yeah, enough info there…
3. I want to have a whole day to myself just to read that book.
4. I want to be in better shape.
5. I want to be one of those moms that people say “Man, I wish I could be more like her..”
6. I want a new phone. One of those awesome blackberry touch phones…(don’t know how to use one, but I really want one!)
7. I want to be more photogenic and not always hiding from the camera.
8. I want to dance. I want to not be so self conscious and scared of what people think that I actually could go out and learn. And I want to be good at it.
9. I want a new car. That’s paid for. One that has lots of power and gets good gas mileage and smells brand new. And it has to be blue.
10. I want my birthday to be a wonderful day with only positive things, surrounded by those I love and that love me right back.

So, there you go. Not your generic b-day wish list, but all I can come up with for now.

*This list may change at any time!

Yesterday, today,and tomorrow.

2009-01-22T07:41:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was "Bring a friend to dance" day. And of course, we HAD to take Susan.
They were so cute together. I was at school while they danced, but was able to grab a couple of shots when I picked up Hannah.
(Can I just say how nice it is to have this fancy new computer that I can just plug in my memory card and, voila! pictures appear!) Had to include little Maya in the photo op...
Today...Well, I need to hurry and finish this here blog because I am headed out to sew with Rachel...I have been so busy with school and all the craziness of life that the quilt has been put on hold: until today. Wish me luck!
Tomorrow...hmmm, there is something special about tomorrow...Well when I figure it out I'll let ya know. :)

Please leave your message...

2009-01-20T20:33:00.000-08:00

Well, Jenny, you have a good point... I too, may be going private here soon. I installed this new little map thing (whatever you want to call it) and it says who has visited your blog. Kind of cool, but a little creepy at the same time. Not that I have anything to hide, just you never know what freak may be following your blog.
Am I over analyzing this?
Well, I want to test the waters for a while. If you are visiting our little blog and I don't know you, leave me a little note and say hi...or if you do know me, do the same. Just wanna know who looks at this thing.

I have been tagged!!!

2009-01-19T16:45:00.000-08:00

8 THINGS ABOUT ME

I was tagged by Cherle!

Here are the Rules:
1) Post rules on your blog
2) Answer the six '8' items
3) Let each person know by leaving them a comment

8 favorite TV Shows:
1. Prison Break
2. Grey's
3. Desperate Housewives
4. House
5. CSI
6. Cops
(DO people seriously have time to have 8 favs? Sorry, I can't think of any more!)

8 things I did yesterday:
1. Slept in!
2. Went to church.
3. Watched half a movie...hope to finish it tonight!
4. Some very belated girl talk with my friend Susan.
5. Watched Hannah and Maria's fashion show...too cute!
6. Ate pizza at my good friend John's house.
7. Played with play-doh with Hannah and Xander (and John. And made this Elephant...

8. Watched a movie with John.
(It was Sunday, and I was LAZY!)

8 Things I look forward to:

1. Spring.
2. End of semester.
3. My next trip to Heathers...counting down...
4. Disneyland this summer. (I found cheap airfare!)
5. A temple trip with Cherle and Rob :)
6. Being financially stable.
7. My own place.
8. My next adventure...

8 favorite restaurants:

1. Olive Garden
2. Spaghetti Factory
3. Anywhere with good prime rib
4. TGI Fridays
5. Midvale Mining CO.
6. Red Lobster
7. Golden Corral (Hannah's Fave)
8. Wingers

8 Things on my wish list:

1. New car...I'm over 275,000 now, the clocks ticking...
2. Home of my own...Love 'em, but can't live with them.
3. Tour of Europe...hmmmm.
4. Learn Spanish...(Not just the swear words)
5. Be a stay at home mom.
6. True love.
7. Hannah to never grow up...
8. Live somewhere that it doesn't snow, but isn't hot... Don't know where that is, but I plan on finding it!

1. 8 People I tag:

This is where I break the rules, I tag...Everyone!!! Go for it, you know who you are!

A Kreativ Blogger?

2009-01-17T15:22:00.000-08:00

My sweet friend Rachel tagged me and gave me a Kreativ Blogger award. My blogs don't even compare to hers, but oh well. So, I am supposed to list 6 things I am grateful for and then pass this award on to 6 other creative bloggers.

Here's my list...
1. My sweet daughter. She thinks I am amazing (mostly because she hasn't spent much time at Rachel's house) :)
2. Wonderful friends. Especially those that have withstood the test of time. This includes some amazing cousins, whom I consider friends.
3. Having a job that allows me the flexibility to further my education.
4. Amazing teachers and professors who want to see my succeed.
5. A car that still runs and and is paid off!
6. The daily blessings that I receive that I just can't number...

SO now the fun part...I get to tag 6 more people...
April (Princess Apple), Joy (Four by sea), Pat and Ang (SF Dukes), Cherle (7 Bednars), Clint and Anh (A guy, a girl and a laptop), and last but not least Heather Frost (Gavin hears a who!)...Blog away, my friends...blog away. And P.S. Rachel, I'm glad you read, I'll try and make it worth it :)

Waiting...

2009-01-16T21:15:00.000-08:00

"Waiting is painful. Forgetting is painful. But not knowing which to do is the worse kind of suffering.”
Paulo Coelho

I'm not going to say too much tonight. I have a lot on my mind right now and don't quite know how to put the words together...and then to put them here so that anyone can even begin to understand what in the world I am talking about... that will have to wait... Ah, back to waiting...

Back to school

2009-01-09T22:13:00.000-08:00

Things are back to normal (or whatever you call it) around here. Hannah and I both survived our first week back to school! Hannah was exhausted and barely was able to drag herself out of bed...it was so hard to get back on a bedtime schedule. I plan on doing much better next week. She was actually really excited to go to her dads this weekend, so things are going pretty good.
I had my first day back to school on Wednesday. I think the way I have my schedule set up this semester is going to work out pretty well. I will only be there 2 days a week instead of 5 so I guess that is a plus. I have some pretty interesting classes this time and some new teachers so I am kind-of excited to see how things are going to go.
I finally broke down and bought myself a new laptop. My other one was totally possessed and slower than cold tar. I am hoping this will motivate me to keep up on the blog a little better...um, I mean, I plan on using it to write papers and do research...yeah, that's why I bought it...

I can't sleep.

2009-01-04T21:42:00.000-08:00

Ok, here are the random thoughts of someone who should really be sleeping right now!
1. I have to admit that I am really missing someone at this very moment. I can't really explain it, I wish I could maybe just let it all out and feel better, but I don't know where to begin. So, if you are reading this just know that I miss you very much and wish you the very best.
2. I am getting nervous about going back to school. ( I know, more school drama, scroll down to the next number...) I worry so much about doing my best and still providing for my family. I struggle so much with prioritizing my time and feel like I just end up in a state of exhaustion and don't get anything accomplished at all. I want to do it all and do it all well, but at the same time I don't want to do it at all.
3. I need a new computer. This one sucks. I have three more years of school to "look forward to" so I am thinking I am going to bite the bullet and make a purchase.
4. It is freaking cold outside. The thermometer on the porch says -2. That's right, NEGATIVE 2!
5. I have a b-day coming up...sweet 16 times 2...lol. I am actually looking forward to this one. Don't ask me why cause I don't have a clue...
6. I am just sitting here thinking of how very blessed I am. I have experienced some of the most amazing things over the past few months and it has made me so aware of our Heavenly Fathers unconditional love for us. He is totally aware of me and my daily struggles. I just sit back in awe when I think of this. I don't express my gratitude nearly enough. Hey, that will be my first resolution for the new year...be more grateful, or at least express my gratitude more often.
7. Lastly, I want to send a hug out to my blogger friend Tori...I have been so sad since I read your blog. My heart is broken for your family. I have my own 6 year old daughter and can't imagine the pain and sadness that this family is experiencing. I wish you peace and that you will feel the love of your family and friends. My thoughts and prayers are with your whole family at this time.

Hannah's hair drama

2009-01-02T16:30:00.000-08:00

Hannah wants to cut her hair. She says she hates long hair. I personally love her hair. For those of you who haven't known me for long, Hannah didn't have hair until she was almost 3...so we have come a long way. We have argued over this hair thing (I know, I am not supposed to be arguing with a 6 year old) for quite some time now and have made a deal that if she does get her hair cut that we have to donate it to locks of love.
So now her new thing is as she is brushing her hair she sighs and says "I'd really like to give all this hair to some little girl with cancer..." (insert another big sigh here) Now how the heck do you tell them no after that one? So as my blogger buddies, you get to help me out. I want to know what you think. If you are still reading this blog then you must have some sort of opinion...Do we go for it and cut it off or should I make her wait a while?

Dear Santa, I can explain...

2008-12-24T14:50:00.001-08:00

I have turned into the Grinch today. I had the Christmas spirit...I really did. Unfortunately, I think I lost it today (in more ways than one). You might as well just keep the presents cause I think I've been pretty naughty.

Grandma talked me into taking her to Provo to see Erick and I figured I could do a bit of last minute shopping while I was there. Not such a bad idea...but, I know better than to shop on Christmas Eve for the ONE thing I haven't been able to find...(and we probably could have lived without it, but I have talked myself into believing that our trip will be ruined if I don't have it...I am such a compounder...)

Well, long story short, I had a flat tire, people were rude at the stores, and every time I opened my mouth something negative came out. I just hate it when I act like that. In a way it makes me happy that Hannah is at her dad's house and not seeing me act like a total jerk. I miss her so much!!! I am so excited for her to come home in the morning! Do you think her dad will think I am nuts if I am parked in the driveway at 6 am?

Anyway, I will still wish you all a very Merry Christmas. I wish you the best and hope your holidays are filled with fun memories, good friends, family (that is nice to each other!) and yummy food. I especially send these wishes to those of you far away or alone this year. Even though I am a total grump today, I am still thinking of you and love you all.

MyFaceLOL...the Duke boys

2008-12-22T18:00:00.001-08:00

Click here to create your own video

FInals...one down, three to go.

2008-12-17T15:27:00.000-08:00

Well, I guess the worst is behind me. I took my math final at 7am today. (Who in the world schedules a final at 7am...had to be a man...lol) Well, good news is that it is over and bad news is I didn't do well. I obviously don't know my grade, but I am praying I passed. Oh, well, life goes on.

Tomorrow will finish up the finals for the semester...I'm nervous as hell but excited at the same time. Imagine that. Can you say "emotional wreck"?

So, there it is...I'll try and update this weekend once the shock and caffeine has worn off for finals week.

Christmas blessings...

2008-12-15T17:23:00.000-08:00

I know, I know, I just can't stay off the dang computer when I should be studying...So in my defense, I do have something very important to say...and this is the only way to publicly thank the anonymous person who has blessed my life...

On the evening of December 9th, a prayer was answered and a very special gift was left for Hannah and I. Words cannot express how grateful I am to you for your generous gift. I wish I knew who to thank, but unfortunately, there was no name signed to the card. Anyway, without getting all mushy and crying again, I just want to sincerely thank you, whoever you are. You have been an instrument in God's hands, and I will cherish this memory forever.
Love, Sarah

(This has absolutely nothing to do with the above post, but I read this today and loved it. Enjoy.)

"I believe that everything happens for a reason. People change so that you can learn to let go. Things go wrong so that you appreciate them when they're right. You believe lies so you eventually learn to trust no-one but yourself, and sometimes things fall apart so that better things can fall together."
Marilyn Monroe

Heads up...

2008-12-13T14:16:00.000-08:00

Next week is finals for me! Holy cow, this semester has flown by! So a heads up to those of you who are actually interested in this blog and my daily happenings...I will tell you right now that there will be no posting, just some major studying going on around here! Pray for me, people!!!
Love ya all,
Sarah

Dancing and singing

2008-12-10T17:39:00.000-08:00

Just a little update on my little Hannah. She has been very busy dancing and singing these past few weeks, and I just wanted to show her off for a minute.
Hannah had a dance recital on Saturday. Her dance class preforms at Swiss Christmas in Midway every year. (This is her 4th year of ballet) It is quite a hectic time, but the girls did an amazing job and were so adorable.
Miss Hannah did not want me to take her picture. I think she was a little tired from being out so late at Temple square the night before.

Hannah dancing with their little snowballs. Sorry there aren't more photos or video...I am technically challenged at the moment.

Today, Hannah's music class did a Christmas concert for the residents of the local care center. They did such a great job (and Hannah even did a little solo!).

Hannah and Susan right after the performance at the care center.

They danced all the way to the car!

A visit to Temple Square.

2008-12-06T09:32:00.000-08:00

Last night we took a little trip to Salt Lake to see the lights at Temple Square. We ran into a few friends from Heber while we were there, so that made it kind of fun! (Hi Caren!) Hannah complained everytime I asked her to take a picture, but for some reason she really wanted a picture with this statue.

My very favorite part of visiting the visitor center is enjoying the beauty of the Christus. It was a little chaotic with all of the people there, but still such an amazing spirit when you sit back and enjoy it.

The Salt Lake Temple

As if the Temple itself wasn't beautiful enough, add the lights in for pure delight.

This is Hannah and her new bud Mike. They had a great time harassing each other. I don't know what she enjoyed more...the piggyback rides or just having someone to tease.

Randy and Mike.

A little group shot before we headed home. Figured I needed to get on the other side of the camera for a change.

Family Pictures

2008-12-02T15:51:00.000-08:00

I hate having my picture taken. There. I've said it. And trying to hunt down 2 outfits that kind-of match so we don't look like a couple of dorks was quite the event. So why on earth I would pay someone to take pictures of me and Hannah is beyond me. Anyway, have a good laugh!

Hannah looking at me like I am a big dork.

A fun little ride.

I love this picture...we were headed back to the car and I started to pinch her cute little bum...that explains the face a little better.

The Duke Girls.

I am so thankful!

2008-11-30T18:41:00.000-08:00

I know, not the most flattering photo of Hannah and I, but Pat was so kind to take a quick pic of us after Aunt Dana and I finally got all of the dishes done. This was as good as it was going to get!
So since I am sitting at work and have no way to download my pictures from this last week this one photo will have to do for now.

Heather Epperson posted an A-Z thankful list...so here is mine, just a little shorter.

A- America. I am thankful to live in a place where I have the freedom to express my thoughts and feelings without persecution.
B- Boots. Warm, fuzzy snow boots when it snows.
C- Children.
D- Dads.
E- Education.
F- Forever Families.
G- Grandma's who love us even when we are a pain in the rear.
H- Hope. Man, gotta have hope. And Hannah.
I- Icicles.
J- Jokes. I love to laugh.
K- Knowledge. Especially the knowledge I have of the gosple.
L- Love.
M- Moms. And mittens for those tiny little hands that just have to play in the snow.
N- Night. Love the stars and the crisp night air.
O- Orange juice.
P- Prophets.
Q- Quirks, the ones that make us unique and lovable.
R- Reality checks.
S- Sleep.
T- Tutors! And tables. The big ones that the whole family can gather around to eat and laugh.
U- Underwear. The long, warm ones.
V- Video night. Cuddle up under the covers and just be together. The best thing in the world.
W- Words. Especially the right ones at the right time.
X- Gotta love those "X's" Lessons learned, my friend. That's all.
Y- Yahoo...I love being able to keep in touch with email.
Z- Zippers that work!
So there it is, my thankful list. Feel free to add your name to the appropriate letter. More to come on the blog...just be patient!

Little update

2008-11-25T12:34:00.000-08:00

Holy cow! Has it been a whole week since I posted on this thing???

Here is a short and sweet update:

School is going pretty good! I finally rocked a test in Physiology...fingers are crossed for the final! Math...well, still a bit of a struggle for me, but I have an amazing tutor that I need to spend more time with.

Hannah is growing like a weed! She has her first dance recital of the year on December 6th, Saturday. (Swiss Christmas) If anyone is interested I think she dances about 1:00. I tried to talk her into staying home from school today, ok, not really, I was just messing with her, but her response was this: "But mom, I have sooooo much to do today! We have projects to finish and 4 recesses!" I lost that fight.

Heather is going to be here tonight! I'm taking her out on the town tonight for her b-day tomorrow (the big "30"). I plan on having some excellent blackmail photos on here within the next week!

Last, but DEFINITELY not least, dating. Love it, love it, love it!!!

That's all folks!

6 Quirks of the Heber Girls

2008-11-17T20:16:00.000-08:00

Here are my 6 quirks...
1. I push the snooze button exactly 3 times every morning. If I have to get up early, I set my alarm earlier so that I can get in that 27 minutes of snoozing...I am not much of a morning person.
2. I don't know what color my hair is. I have colored my hair so much since high school that I don't really know what color is underneath...grey?
3. I have a real honest to goodness phobia...spiders.
4. I don't like basements. Especially unfinished ones! There are big freaking spiders down there...(Refer to #3)
5. Leftovers. I don't like them. I like to eat something once. My dad, on the other hand, can eat reheated lasagna for a week. That is just weird to me.
6. I don't like sweets. Go figure. Now if you put something salty in front of me, that is a different story!

Hannah's 6 quirks...
Well, I wouldn't consider her "quirky" but here are 6 of the cutest things about my little Hannah-Balloo...
1. She likes to make beds. I don't. She makes grandpa's bed for him. What an angel.
2. She likes oysters. You know the smoked kind in the can you buy at Wal-mart? Well, give her one of those, some crackers, and a fork and we are good to go. (She gets this one from G-pa Duke)
3. She doesn't say "without"...she say "fur-out"...example "You aren't going to the store fur-out me are you?" I laugh every time.
4. She calls herself "Rascals Mother" (In case you don't know, Rascal is the dog I got for her when she dropped the 'I want a baby brother' thing on me...)
5. Hannah loves to sing. She has a little Hannah Montana guitar with a microphone that plugs into it and she will hang out in her room singing made up songs all day long.
6. Hannah loves the monkey bars at school. She refuses to wear dresses to school because that ruins her being able to hang upside down on the monkey bars (that never stopped ME...).
So there you go...quirks of the Heber Duke girls...hope you got a good laugh.

Who are you?

2008-11-10T19:45:00.000-08:00

This weekend was busy. Between sleepovers and shopping, primary practice and programs, it was just too much for a little six year old. My poor little Hannah was so worn out that she passed out watching TV last night aroung 6:45. She coughed all night long so I let her stay home from school today as long as she promised to rest. Well, she wanted to dress up, so I let her dress up. (I'm a pushover.) So, my dad stopped in for lunch and Hannah ran down the stairs to see who was there, and he says to her, "Who are you? Wait...let me guess..." She stares at him while he is trying to think of 'Jasmine'...then she pipes up..."I'm absent!" We started to laugh and she said "Well, I am!" What a funny little girl.

A good walk, ruined.

2008-11-08T18:37:00.000-08:00

Mark Twain once said, “Golf is a good walk, ruined.” Let me tell you about my “good walk” that was ruined...not by golf…but by thousands of people protesting the LDS church and the ruling on same-sex marriage.

Last night I had a date…the plan was to go to Temple Square and take a walk and try to see the movie at the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. Sounds simple? Yeah, right. Traffic seemed crazy as we got closer to downtown, but I had no idea what was to come. Thousands of protesters were circling Temple Square shouting and chanting about equal rights for same sex couples. We decided to not let that ruin our plans, so we attempted to go anyway, but unfortunately, the gates had been locked due to the obvious disturbance. This brings to mind another major debate over the LDS church…remember when they wanted to buy up a block of main to make a beautiful little place for people to go? Well, thank heavens that the Church owns a little peaceful strip of street on Main Street...we were able to go and sit by the reflection pool on the street and enjoy the beauty of the temple.

Meanwhile, there was a helicopter circling overhead and protesters were gathering near the corner of the Church Office Building. We sat for a while then headed back to the car and had to walk right toward the protesters. A little uncomfortable? You bet. They would look right at us and scream their little issues at us...It was hard for me to keep my mouth shut! You can bet I thought of some great things to say, but I really didn’t want to get my butt kicked last night.

Anyway, I’ll make this short…I am a firm believer that marriage is between a man and a woman. That is it. If you want to go have sex with people of the same sex, go for it. As long as you are two consenting adults, that is your issue, but don't walk past me on a public street...next to a place I consider to be a holy place...and try to shove your ideas down my throat. Talk about disrespect. I live my life, you go live yours. And remember, the same democratic right that we were given to vote on this issue is the exact same thing that gives you the right to scream and act like a freaking idiot in public.

P.S. I had a great time with the most amazing guy. Maybe I’ll have more to tell in a future post…

Open letter to our new President-Elect

2008-11-04T18:07:00.000-08:00

I found this letter from my favorite columnist, Robert Kirby, in the Tribune today. He couldn't have said it any better.

Dear Mr. President:

Congratulations on your victory at the polls. You are now the leader of the free world whether anybody likes it or not. Frankly, I give you about a week to figure out that you don't.

As a participant in the process that put you in office, I am writing to offer you the benefit of the common man's advice. Men don't come more common than me. Ask my wife.

First, please do not let the victory go to your head. You aren't smart as you think you are. In fact, you aren't even as smart as your supporters claim. We're all going to find that out in the next four years, so there's no point in pretending otherwise.

It doesn't take a genius to be president. I offer as proof any number of dolts we have elected to the country's highest office. So please remember that the trust we've placed in you isn't necessarily a compliment.

The truth is that most Americans could do your job. They could even be good presidents if they remembered to keep things simple. And that's what I'm writing to you about now.

Most Americans know what needs to be done. We learned it growing up, or at least those of us with decent parents did. Presumably, that includes you. Here's what my parents taught me that would also work in the White House.

ENVIRONMENT -- If you make a mess, you have to clean it up. It doesn't matter how long ago you made the mess, or who else helped, you still have to clean it up--even if it takes all day.

FOREIGN POLICY -- You are not the most important person in the world. If you think you are, you need to be taken down a notch or two.

EDUCATION -- Stupidity will always cost more than tuition.

NATIONAL DEFENSE -- Bullies always have to look over their shoulders. Be strong but don't pick on your sisters, or your father will kick your ass when he gets home.

CRIME -- A punishment equal to or worse than the deed is the most effective way of remembering not to do it again.

ECONOMY -- If you want something, go earn the money for it. If you borrow more than you can repay, you deserve to have your thumbs broke.

HEALTH CARE -- Eat right, work hard, don't smoke, brush your teeth, wear your seat belt, and look both ways before crossing the street. If it's not your fault, we'll help you pay to fix it.

There's more, but I think you get the point. Our problems aren't that complicated. Your presidency shouldn't be either.

Best of luck

Robert Kirby

Salt Lake Tribune

This looked fun...One word tag

2008-11-03T17:49:00.000-08:00

So I've seen this on a couple of the blogs I read...Looked like a little something to distract me for a minute...So I am tagging anyone who reads this and has never done it!

One Word Tag
1. Where is your cell phone? TABLE
2. Where is your significant other? NONE
3. Your hair color? BROWN?
4. Your mother? HERE
5. Your father? HILARIOUS
6. Your favorite thing? HOPE
7. Your dream last night? NOPE
8. Your dream/goal? EVERYTHING
9. The room you're in? WORK
10. Your hobby? HOMEWORK
11. Your fear? LOSS
12. Where do you want to be in six years? HAPPIER
13. Where were you last night? BED
14. What you're not? COMPLETE
15. One of your wish list items? COMPUTER
16. Where you grew up? HEBER
17. The last thing you did? TEXT
18. What are you wearing? UNIFORM
19. Your TV? OFF
20. Your pet? SILLY!
21. Your computer? CRAP
22. Your mood? ANXIOUS
23. Missing someone? DEFINITELY
24. Your car? NOISY!
25. Something you're not wearing? EARRINGS
26. Favorite Store? CHEAP!
27. Your summer? OVER
28. Love someone? ALWAYS
29. Your favorite color? BLUE
30. When is the last time you laughed? TODAY
31. Last time you cried? TODAY

What a fun (and exhausting) week!

2008-10-30T08:13:00.000-07:00

Man, this week has flown by...I guess that is how it goes when you stay busy.
Hannah has been partying it up all week with this whole Halloween thing...I remember when I was a kid we didn't do quite this much...
Monday we went to the party at UVU...it was fun but WAY too many kids there! We ducked out early with our cookies. Tuesday Hannah had a big party at girl scouts, yesterday she got to dress up again for dance, this is her class...what a bunch of cuties!
and today she is going to the party at the Rec Center. I am pretty sure that after tomorrow night she is gonna crash!

44 ODD and slightly randon things about me...

2008-10-28T16:19:00.000-07:00

Subject: 44 ODD things about you!
1. Do you like blue cheese? Only with hot wings
2. Have you ever smoked? yes
3. Do you own a gun? Not yet
4. What flavor Kool-Aid was your favorite as a kid? Grape
5. Do you get nervous before doctor appointments? No
6. What do you think of hot dogs? They are ok...depends on my mood
7. Favorite Christmas movie? All of them
8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? I'd drink chocolate milk every morning if I could get away with it...but I settle for a glass of OJ
9. Can you do push ups? Yes
10. What's your favorite piece of jewelry? Don't really have one...but I enjoy getting earrings from Hannah every year for Mothers day
11. Favorite hobby? Catching up on my sleep
12. Do you have A.D.D.? Most definitely
13. What's one trait you hate about yourself? I over analyze everything!
14. Middle name? Don't have one
15. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment. I should be studying instead of doing this. I miss someone. I can't wait to go home and go to bed.
16. Name 3 drinks you regularly drink? Water, OJ, and water
17. Current worry? School
18. Current hate right now? Dating
19. Favorite place to be? Cuddled up in bed reading a good book
20. How did you bring in the New Year? With some good friends
21. Where would you like to go? Hawaii
22. Name three people who will complete this? Hopefully everyone who reads this will
23. Do you own slippers? Yes, a couple of pairs
24. What color shirt are you wearing right now? The ugliest blue and black Holiday Inn shirt you have EVER seen!
25. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? Satin? I can't afford SATIN!
26. Can you whistle? Yes
27. Favorite color? Blue
28. Would you be a pirate? Sure, if they had life jackets and didn't make me walk the plank!
29. What songs do you sing in the shower? Whatever song woke me up that morning.
30. Favorite Girl's Name? Hannah
31. Favorite boy's name? Colton
32. What's in your pocket right now? Nothin' but sunshine...lol
35. Worst injury you've ever had? Broken finger
36. Do you love where you live? Usually
37. How many TV's do you have in your house? 2
38. Who is your loudest friend? Caren
39. Do you have any dogs? Yes, Rascal is Hannah's baby.
40. Does someone have a crush on you? I hope so.
41. What's your favorite book? Suzanne's diary to Nicholas
42. What is your favorite candy? Reese's PB cups
43. Favorite Sports Team? Broncos
44. What song do you want played at your funeral? Haven't really thought that one through...I'll get back to you on that!

What hand gesture are you?

2008-10-27T16:52:00.000-07:00

Once again, I am playing on the Internet when I should be studying...I saw this funny quiz...and yes, I did assume I was going to be another type of hand gesture!
This is what I got:

You Are a Heart

Your life philosophy can be summed up as, “Love like you've never been hurt.”

Your greatest wish is to have harmony in all of your relationships.

You can't help loving people, even when they're incredibly flawed.

You are a true romantic, and you are willing to give almost anyone a second chance.

What Hand Gesture Are You?

What is so funny about this...the studying I am avoiding doing at the moment just happens to be Chapter 12: The Heart. Laughing my head off!
So for any of you that are so bored you are reading this, take a second and do the quiz...I'm wondering what you are!

Hannah FINALLY lost a tooth!

2008-10-22T20:03:00.000-07:00

Well, it finally happened. Hannah finally got up enough courage to pull her loose tooth. I swear it has been loose for a month, and she just wouldn't let anyone touch it.
I have been studying for a midterm and she kept coming in my room to show me how loose it was...so I put her in front of the bathroom mirror with a piece of dental floss and told her to go for it!

She came running in a few minutes later and voila!
She has been giggling for the last hour!
She got ready for bed and said "Mom, PRAYERS!" So she was getting ready and says,"I have a lot of stuff to pray about!" Then giggles again. In her prayer she says, "Bless the tooth fairy so she won't forget I lost a tooth today." So cute.

Fall break

2008-10-20T20:50:00.000-07:00

Well, as I promised here is the update on the mini-vacation to Montana.

~disclaimer~ The diet went to crap. Deal with it.

Dad decided to go with us to Heathers so we waited for him to get home from work. We loaded up the car and we were off! My dear friend Cheryl loaned us her DVD player for the car (thank you a million times!) so Hannah was pretty quiet the whole drive. She did make one screaming announcement to Grandpa "I have to pee!" We were in the middle of nowhere and it was dark out so she got to go on the side of the road. What a way to start off the trip!

We arrived late (about 1:30 am) and crawled into bed. Heather lives about 2 blocks from the railroad tracks. Lets just say we didn't sleep well. The dang train blew it's whistle all night long and I swear the bed was shaking. Not to mention the police sirens. What the heck was going on on a Wednesday night? Anyway, we didn't sleep so well.

The next morning Heather and I did some sisterly bonding...a.k.a. shopping. She helped me pick out a really cute pair of boots and a sweater, so I guess we did ok. She took me to the local convenience store for a homemade cherry coke and to make fun of the local creep working the register. Good times. We figured the kids were hungry so we headed home and took them out to lunch. I guess TJ and Tori like to take everyone to this little Chinese place when they come and visit. It was actually really good (the crab puffs were yummy!)

Somehow we talked dad into a haircut and a color...yes a color. I have the pictures but silly me never got an after to compare to the before...I will work on that. After that, Heather and I took the kids to see Beverly Hills Chihuahua. The kids totally loved it. I could have lived without seeing it, but Hannah had wanted to take the kids ever since the show came out. I caved. What can I say, we were on vacation!

We spent Friday morning at the museum. I wanted to visit the capital, but since it is an even numbered year they only do tours on Saturday. Dang politicians. The kids weren't that impressed with the choice but I think that dad kind-of liked it. TJ loved the room upstairs with all the old army and war stuff. (Apparently he wants to join the army when he grows up) They had a really fun quilt display so I took some pictures of some cute quilts for my quilting buddies. I just wanted to let them know I was thinking of them. :) We took the kids to this really cute park (castle park?) and then to ride the carousel. Sorry for the crappy pictures.

Friday night Heather, Jared and I hit the town...You'll have to ask Jared about it cause I'm keeping my lips sealed. Let’s just say he was a hoot.

We had "girls day" on Saturday while the guys all went antelope hunting. We were getting ready to go out and decided that manicures or pedicures would be really fun with the girls. I am in the bathroom combing what is left of my hair when Heather starts to scream...I run to the kitchen and we have a friend outside the kitchen door eating her tree. The girls thought it was awesome and wanted to pet him. I couldn't believe how tame he seemed.

That must've been some good leaves. Heather chased him off cause she was worried about the landlord's trees. Sissy. Just kidding. I made sure to get pictures cause I was sure Jared and dad wouldn't believe it.

Back to girls day...we went to this cute little place called Shellie's cafe for lunch and had the best sandwich. It was called a Montana Steak Sandwich...yummy. It was kind-of like a philly steak...sliced meat, melted swiss, mushrooms and onions...yum. Just thinking about it makes me want one! We went and did a walk through on a house that Heather saw in paper...it was so cute! I really hope that they buy it! Then we visited one of her friends that has a new baby (so cute, I wanted one for like a half of a second) and then went and had ice cream.

We made it home just as the guys did. Everyone was worn out and tired so we ordered pizza and watched a movie.

A little funny thing that happened while we were chilling...Hannah comes down and crawls on me and says Tori won't play with her. Then we hear Tori up in her room fake crying. Heather calls her down to get the scoop. Tori tells Heather that Hannah hates her! Hannah starts to sob and swears she didn't say it...So Heather asks her again. "Tori did Hannah say she hates you?" "No, but she thought it!" (still sobbing) We all break down laughing. Oh the things kids will say.

Regardless, we had a great time...If you take out the part about the noisy trains and the sleeping on a couch it was awesome. It was a long drive and I didn't get a dang thing accomplished except and cute outfit I probably will never wear...but I am so glad we went. We made some fun memories and I can't wait to go again...Next time I am staying at the Holiday Inn as far away from the train as possible...and I'm taking my ear plugs!

Octobrrrrrrr.....

2008-10-13T18:41:00.000-07:00

Holy crap it's cold. I never thought winter would get here and here it is. Time sure flies when you are having fun... :)
So here is a little update for those of you I haven't spoken to in a while. First of all school is going great...well, I guess that maybe I should say it's going better. I am finally starting to catch on in my math class (I have an amazing teacher) so my hardest subject is now not so hard. Had my mid-term for Psych...aced it (thank you!), and English is going well. I had to give an oral presentation a few weeks ago and thought I was going to die, but other than that, it's great! Physiology...ugh. I am struggling. I just can't seem to read a chapter and know what the heck is going on. I need pictures. A video. Maybe a cute little song to sing to help me memorize the vocabulary. I am too visual of a learner to just read a 50 page chapter on the nervous system and go "Dang, I get it!"
Needless to say, I've had to shift gears a bit to keep it afloat. Keep me in your thoughts and prayers, heaven only knows how badly I need them right now!

Tomorrow we get to celebrate Hannah's "unbirthday" at school. The original plan was for Wednesday but I got a sticky note from Mrs Mecham today asking me to change to tomorrow. Shifting gears again. (Apparently Mrs Mecham doesn't know about my English midterm.) So Hannah has decided she wants to do root beer floats for her class tomorrow. Easy enough, right? I'll let you know how that goes.

Dating. (Insert four letter word here)
What can I say? It sucks. Not that I am not having fun, cause I am. I am meeting tons of people and having a great time...I am just a little tired of the games. I am sick of guys looking for a rebound girl or just a good time. I know all of you married gals are thinking right now...geeze, glad I'm out of that stage of my life...and all I can say is I envy you. BUT...on a good note...I did go out Friday night with a really neat guy. He is 6'3" (I like 'em tall, and the last 4 or 5 guys I've been out with have been short...I mean SHORT), cute, and a total blast. We went out to dinner and then to Thanksgiving Point to the haunted corn maze. It was freezing cold...but I had a great time.

Last but not least, vacation. Hannah and I both have a few days off for UEA/Fall break and we have decided to head up to Montana and hang out with Heather and her family. Hannah has been counting down the days...2 to go. I will take pictures and let everyone know how the trip goes.

What the heck???

2008-10-05T07:27:00.000-07:00

If any of you know me very well, you know that I have a severe phobia...spiders. I am talking phobia. ( pho•bi•a [foh-bee-uh] –noun a persistent, irrational fear of a specific object, activity, or situation that leads to a compelling desire to avoid it.)

I have been trying to deal with it for some time, heck; I have even pushed myself to the point of squishing the really tiny ones without calling for help. (That is, if Hannah isn't around and willing to do the deed.)

So here is the story...I am at work at the old Holiday Inn and two of the housekeepers, Isela and Paula, bring this bottle and set it on my desk. It's a half empty (half full, either way) bottle of Mike's hard lemonade. She says "Sarah, look at this." And I am thinking, what, it's just a bottle of alcohol, no biggie...then she takes her hand off the bottle and inside is the biggest fricking spider I have ever seen in my life!!! Needless to say, I freaked out. So I back up against the wall and start to feel woozy and Matt, the GM of the hotel, starts to laugh at me. I explained to him about my little "phobia" and he finished laughing at me. Then they all go into this huge debate on whether the damned thing is real.

IT IS STILL SITTING ON MY DESK.

To keep this post short and to keep me from having to take a Xanax, let’s finish this up now. Apparently I must have started to look ill. Matt tells them to get it out of there before I pass out...good call. So they decide to go out and dump it in the parking lot so they can squish it and see if it was real or not. (That is how the debate was settled.) So to try to do some self-therapy to deal with this irrational fear… I followed them to the parking lot and I took pictures. From a distance. Thank heavens for zoom. I had to do it. It was therapeutic. Besides, who was going to believe this?

This is Isela...looks like she is really enjoying herself, huh?

IT IS A FREAKING BLACK WIDOW! I WASN'T GETTING ANY CLOSER, JUST NOTE THE RED HOURGLASS ON THE DAMNN THING!

The question of the day is this....how in the hell did the dude in 326 get the spider in the bottle? And why would you want to do that anyway? Any suggestions?

Tag!...Now you are it!

2008-10-01T13:44:00.000-07:00

Amanda Jones...I am gonna stop reading your blog if you do that to me again!

How To Play This Game of Tag:
1. Post these rules on your blog.
2. List: 3 joys, 3 fears, 3 goals, 3 current obsessions/collections, 3 random surprising facts about yourself.
3. Tag 5 people at the end of your post by leaving their names...

Grab a coke so you don't fall asleep and hopefully I can find 5 unsuspecting victims...

3 Joys
1. Hannah. I love her beautiful smile and blue eyes. She has the funniest personality and I am amazed by the things she learns and then tries to teach me on a daily basis.
2. Sleep! I am a totally different person when I've gotten in my full 7 hours. I would rather sleep than eat. That is sad.
3. I have the most amazing friends. I know that they love me and would do anything for me. I never have to worry about that and that makes me feel very blessed.

3 Fears
1. Missing out on the best years of Hannahs life.
2. Missing out on best years of my life.
3. Finding Mr. Wrong all over again.

3 Goals
1. Well, I am playing biggest loser with all of ya, so my first goal is that 25 pounds I committed to lose...
2. Finishing school (in a timely manner!) with out a nervous breakdown.
3. A date for this Friday night...I am a woman on a mission!

3 Current obsessions
1. First promise not to laugh....but I get online every day to check my stupid LDS Mingle account...I know, what a dork, I have resorted to internet dating! You know, if my friends would help me out I wouldn't have to look online...I'll leave that there...
2. Not sleeping in and missing my Math class. My class starts at 7 am...I work till 11 pm...you do the math! (No pun intended.) Lets just say I am one crabby beast in the morning, and my chipper Professor has made it clear in no uncertain terms that if you miss a class he will deduct 2 points per day off the final exam. I'm not gonna mess with him!
3. Eating healty and drinking my water.

Random Facts about me!
1. My favorite flower is a daisy.
2. I hate tuna fish.
3. My keyboard sticks...I spend more time backspacing than I do typing...therefore I have an amazingly strong right pinkey finger...

Now...who to tag, who to tag...(This is assuming anyone reads this damn blog)
Heather Epperson, Rachel Crane, Tori (sorry Tori I don't know your last name!), Jenny Rowser, and Anh (AKA "Girl")