andhannie

I love him...

Thanks to my great friend Kathy, I have been introduced to new reads. I devoured both of these books in a weeks time. I could not put either down. They are great escape books, entertaining, and full of creativity. I highly recommend. The only bad thing about these 2 books is, the third one does not come out till this fall, and I am dying to find out what happens...
Enjoy!

Over the weekend: Ryan took the belt back in our poker tournament group

Welcome baby Austyn!

We love you, gorgeous girl!

22 January 2010

This was the sunset in Waikiki on January 19, 2010. At that very moment 2 years earlier, Ryan and I were married on the beautiful island of Kauai. It was so amazing to be back on the islands to celebrate another year together. It was a perfect getaway. Just what our souls needed. Thank you Ryan for sharing your life with me so whole-heartily and with such commitment and love. Happy Anniversary to us!

Our trip to Waikiki. Where we stayed. Perfect for us. 1/2 block from beach, great price, great rooms, clean.

Our favorite place to eat and hang out. Right on the beach. Lots of crowds non-stop, perfect views, great service, good menu....

The ceremony setting. In the backyard of some friends of Kelly's parents. What would it be to wake to this sight each morning? .... I know: HEAVEN!

Early morning before the wedding, preparations began at Kelly's parents home. While I readied the bride, I gave Hyrum my camera and the assignment to capture the events of the prep. So, enjoy the moments captured from my sweet little 9 year old nephews perspective. My mom getting a manicure by aunt HannieMy soon to be little brother Caleb, trying to decide if he wants to be a part of the waking world around him.... it is too early! My crazy little brother, the other Caleb, showing off his egg. He is not sure what is inside, but he knows something will hatch out of it soon, but only if he carries it with him everywhere he goes, or has someone babysit it when he wants to play. It is serious business this egg of his. He is comparing it to another type of egg. Humm.. wonder what is inside of the smaller one? OHH... wonder no more. It became part of the breakfast casserole that Aunt Cami is making for the big wedding crowd.

Can't wait for this: and, this:

Baby Austin Chalane is on her way any day...

In honor of her anticipated arrival we had a little party for her this afternoon.

Here is mommy Lucy getting all her gifts ready to go.

She sure got lots of loot for the little bug.

When in their lives are the three birds and sisters ever going to be prego all together again? Probably never. ....Had to get a snapshot of that!

The Bailey family congregated in St. George for 4 days starting the day after Christmas. It was fun to have almost the whole family together. It isn't often, if ever, that we really spend quality time together, and it was nice to be in a relaxing place, enjoying family. There was lots of aunt and uncle time, sibling time, and cousin time. Plus, the place was big enough that we could have all the alone time that we wanted or needed. The kids came up from Kanab so we were able to celebrate a belated Christmas with them and haul all Santa's treasures down for them to enjoy. All in all, it was a really nice extended Christmas break.Shalise and Tay in the kitchen
I don't think in the 4 days we were there that the pool table was ever not being used.
Tay brought Coco with her and the kids LOVED having him around.. but so did Ryan and I! I think we forget how much we love that dang dog, and then we see him and we just can't get enough of his cuteness. Kate getting her Coco lovesand Keegen too. We just crack up and Alden and his obsession with Star Wars. It is the cutest thing to see his passion for anything and everything Star Wars. Here he is concentrating so hard, tongue out and all, making sure that gun is put together just right. Liam and Keegen intently watching Clone Wars.

Christmas Day Couples....

ma and pa FoutzThe soon to be Kelly and Carmen Peterson The Bailey's

The Spud and Amanda Foutz's

and...

CHRISTMAS CHAOS:

HO HO HO... 2009

I have a sinus infection... It SUCKS! Especially because I have a job in which I am sitting inches from my client and I have no choice but to blow the snot monster out of my nose every five minutes while they sit there and enjoy. LOVELy... I heart that immensely. My husband thinks it's hot.... So do they. Anyway, one of my clients informed me of the Neti Pot. Apparently I am the only one that has not heard of it. BUT, just in case, here it is:
I marched myself right on over to Walgreen's on Monday night after work and bought the store brand version of this little guy. By the time I arrived home with my purchase, I was so delirious and sick after 15 hours of work and 75 Kleenexes, I had Ryan read the directions to me and I tried it out. AND... IT WORKED wonders. I could breathe. I did it again this morning before work, and I hardly suffered all day. I still had the kleenex close by, but the pressure was gone. I am truly impressed.

Moral?: if you have a sinus infection due to the lovely inversion, GET a Neti Pot! It is gross and amazing at the same time, but it all = feeling better, so who cares!!

We had a wedding shower for Carmen on Saturday. We just wanted to celebrate her upcoming wedding and show her some love and congratulations. Here she is with her mini winter bouquetMe and Chal, the two organizers and chefs

Dead Head Santa...

Heiko had a BIG birthday this year! Melissa got a huge group together this past weekend to celebrate, and that is what we did! We had a great time, and everything turned out wonderfully! the kick off toast, wishing Heiko happiness in a new decade! guest of honor and melissa Most of us that came.... but there ended being a much larger crowdKarsten and his fiancee Chrissy came all the way from Germany and Philly to celebrateSanta even came for a visit!

My sister in law Shalise is way talented. She is the art teacher at Layton H.S. and has had her students over that past few years create, paint, and fire these different tiles for the daycare at the high school. The project was just completed so they had an open house so that family and friends could come see the project complete. It is so cool. I am amazed at the creativity and talent of not only her, but her students as well.

THANKSGIVING '09We went to my parents for Thanksgiving this year. It was a small group, with just my oldest sister and her two boys, me and Ry, and then los padres.
working hard on that turkeyNicholas, Andrew and I made blessing mix treat bags for our friends that we are thankful for. What else are men supposed to do on Thanksgiving?!?

We were able to see Tay for a few hours on Saturday as she preformed in several different categories of dance at their competition in Layton. She and her team had a long haul, coming from Kanab in the wintry weather and storms. We were a bit nervous about the bus trip, but they arrived up here safely, and at 2:50 am on Sunday morning she texted to say they had just pulled back into Kanab! Crazy weekend for her. They ended up placing 1st in all their dances except one, which they took 2nd. And overall, they took 1st in their division! Yeah!!

If you want to do the 12 days of Christmas for someone, it starts this Sunday the 13th!

It is a lot of fun, and has become an annual tradition in our home. If you have a hard time getting into the holiday spirit, this does the trick for us... so it may for you too!

I DON'T EVEN WANT TO TALK ABOUT IT!!!

for watera full tank of fuelability and desire to work hard continuallymy vision (both sight, and belief in a great future)a healthy and active bodyHEAT to keep me warm during the freezing wintersfamily friends

Tyler gave us his Jazz tickets last night so we took the kids. It was a fab time. With a close score the whole game, and then OT at the end, we did our fair share of screaming and heckling. We're glad they won. It was a close one. Go Jazz... hopefully the season will get better...

Whew! Another event accomplished! Last night was so much fun! We had a full house (sold out theater) for our New Moon pre-screening at Jordan Commons.

A huge thank you to my wonderful comrades Chal and Liv. We make a great team and nothing this huge could have ever been pulled off with out each of our special touches. Go Private Design!

Also, thank you so so much to all of our clients who came and supported us and who have been so loyal throughout the years.

Lastly, a HUGE thank you to our amazing helpers: Carmen Crane, Mijken Ashton, my mommy Linda, Lauren Ricci, Harmony Jenkins, Sheryl Sweeten, Linda and Courtney Cook, Greg Carlile, Ryan Hadlock, Ryan Bailey (my main man), Lana and Uncle Johnny Poll, Brooklyn (Lucy) Rollins, Sanette Brady and her whole gang, and Laurie Hewitt.

We had a TON of giveaways, mostly salon services that were donated by the girls we work with, plus each person received a $25 gift card for waxing services with one of us 3 at PD, and everyone got treats and a bundt cake from 'Nothing Bundt Cakes'..... huge hit.... thanks April!

So, if you missed out, you should consider not missing Eclipse on 30 June next year!

Maybe by then I will have read at least the first book!

Yesterday while I was grocery shopping, I paused and took note of how I felt. I felt happy, I felt free, I felt accepted, I felt loved, I felt complete. Out of all places and times, I am not sure why then or there, but it didn't matter.

It was a good reminder to me that I am happy. That I am grateful. That I am in a good place... with a really great man.

I told him when I got in the car. He asked me if I was sure.

I am positive.

Life is good, because it is.

Hanging out and Megan and Mark's to see Manny win!Thanks for ordering the fight Mark! Go Pacquiao!

and then a little later.... Jared was just a singin'

I never did actually show the proof....

So, here it is! What a good lookin' son, huh?

The fights were last night so we hung out with some friends.

Any reason we can find to gather most likely means:

it will = a good time. Rockstar Lori

Halloween weekend brought us treats including:a visit from Coco (the bigger of the two), he's playing with his 'cousin' Xandera visit from Taylora chance to meet Hermoine (a.k.a. Kate Bailey)and Batman (Keegen)and to see Alden almost sleep through the funanother annual visit to the Barnsen Halloweenie Garage Party... it gets bigger every yeara visit to cute Brecken Barnsen the kitty cat and a fabulous dinner party with some great friends... all the while tending to the late night trick-o-treaters. It was a spooktacular weekend.... BOO!

I can't believe that tonight marks another year since that last Halloween party at my parents! It seems like last years just happened! But, I look at the difference in the kids, and I see how much my niece and nephews have all grown! Here is Caleb hacking away at grandpas pinata made of steel

This is my latest project. A coffee table. I am running out of space, but saw this and decided I could refinish it and then replace our little stools in front of the couch for something "new". I sprayed the gold to a hammered silverthen gave it a couple coats of stain, and then a matte finishing spray, and replaced the glass for wood that I stained to look like slate or concrete. It was all an experiment of creativity. Ryan loves it.

That's all that matters.

My man is happy.

(this is Andrew, brother of our sis-in-law)

a little bit of Amber and Dallasa little black jack was goin' on a little bit of high rollinga little bit of lovin'a little bit of DJ Vance and Kassiea little bit of Nick, Blaire, Tara and Heidi

I think my husband has a talent that I have not fully tapped into yet. He is quite the chef. I am impressed. Lately his recipes and concoctions have really been great. Yesterday I worked late...again, and I came home to a wonderful and welcoming smell of a home cooked meal. Stuffed green peppers. Who would have thought? Chef Bailey. What is next? I love suprises.

a perfect plan

a picturesque setting


a proud walk

The intense looks on both Ryan's and Brenda's faces as they watch their teams play each other on the Sunday NFL ticket. Dolphins vs. Chargers... Go BOLTS! (sorry brenda!)The huge look of shock on Brenda's face...upon returning from a bathroom break and finding her soon-to-be husband all red-necked out in the wife beater he was hiding underneath his crisply ironed GQ shirt. We haven't laughed that hard in a long time! Thanks Giovanni! If you ask G, it is perfectly fine to not only wear the wife beater underneath shirts, but to also sport it while taking a run, mowing the lawn, or working out at the gym. We love the redneck! It will keep Brenda grounded, and add that extra spice to their new life!

I never post about food or cooking. Either one interest me much. But, on Sunday I was craving soup, and I wanted this particular soup that I had seen in a picture. I had no idea how to make it, but I winged it and came up with this. It is a new Bailey favorite.

4 cans chicken broth

half an onion chopped

1 spinach brick

12 pre made meatballs (I used Meirs frozen meatballs)

a small amount of angel hair pasta broken into small pieces

1 chopped potato with skin

salt

ground pepper

a dash of Italian seasoning

Simmer till potatoes are soft before you add the noodles and meatballs. Enjoy.

Friday night FootballRyan and I went to the Bountiful vs. Viewmont High School Football game on Friday night. As his father is a retired school teacher from VHS, and Ryan an alumni of BHS, it was a "must see" event. How funny it was for us to observe the chaos of high school life, and be reminded once again of how thankful we are that those days of drama are long gone for the two of us! It was entertaining, and very nostalgic for my main man.

This summer I started taking tennis lessons from Darrell. He's my father-in-law, and probably the best tennis instructor anyone could ask for. He has been so patient, consistent, and patient. I have actually really started to have fun, and the learning is progressing with each lesson. We practice every Friday and Saturday mornings at the Murray's court. (family friends that just live down the street) The court is in such a great setting, with beautiful trees, garden, and lawn surrounding it's perimeters.

patience in action

posted on the other side of these partitions were the following:The Sharing Place was first introduced to me by Lauren. When she was 15 her dad killed himself. I remember very vividly when she told me. She acted so nonchalantly, like it was no big deal. "It's OK Hannie, really, I am fine." I went home that night knowing that she was not fine. With the wonderful support and help of The Sharing Place, Lauren has grown so much and developed into a beautiful person. She is in a place today that I know she would not be if she hadn't let herself grieve. If she hadn't been taught how to grieve, and that it is OK to process through it. Last night she spoke of her journey. I cried. I was so happy and so touched. Click for her story. Here she is with her amazing mom Sally.

When Stan died, although Carmen already had heard of The Sharing Place, I along with another friend of hers, was so adamant that she get her kids involved there. It has been a god send for her and her three boys. I was talking to Raenie (my little sis) yesterday and we both were in agreement that although we have not benefited first hand from the service of The Sharing Place (thank goodness we have not had reason to!), we feel so indebted to the staff there and to the organization. Without the help that they have provided for Carmen and her family, as extended family, we would feel a loss. We would feel a bigger burden to help them heal, yet not really having the tools to do so. We collectively as a family thank those who work and volunteer there for helping lift such a heavy burden of loss from them and from us, and for helping her boys make sense of it all.

Last night was another refresher course for both myself and for Ryan on gratitude. We have so much! How easy it is for us to forget that.

There was a silent auction. Ryan was in a bidding war over this driver. He lost it by ten bucks! Dang!

This past weekend Willow Creek Country Club in Sandy hosted the PGA tour. Ryan and I were talking about going, but hadn't really deciced on which day to go. Then Sharon called and said she had VIP tickets for us if we wanted to meet up with them on Sunday.

So, that is what we did!

At the last minute our new friend Yvonne decided to throw herself a birthday party. So, Saturday night we loaded up and headed on down to her home. It was quite the spread, with salmon, ribs, chicken, and sausage all on the grill, plus an array of breads, salads, shrimp cocktails, and birthday cake. YUM! It was a perfect evening for dining on the deck.


It wouldn't be a true party for Ryan if college football wasn't on! Go utes! The birthday girl with MelissaPlayin' a little game of quarters... a first for me! It's tricky!

I remember being so hesitant last year as we made preparations to go camping. All I could think about was all the prep, the dirt, the grime, the lack of showers and water, the work, the cooking, the packing and unpacking, and the piles of laundry. It was just too much to think about, let alone actually DO! But, after a very successful trip last year, which turned out to be so much better than my wild imagination led me to believe; I actually looked forward to this year’s trip. I looked forward to no technology, to not being able to be reached via cell phone, internet, IM, text messaging, etc… I looked forward to listening to the wind, to the night sounds in nature, to the crackling firewood, and the distant animal noises that freak me out a bit, but also excite me. I even looked forward to making meals for my two men. The two men that had one sole purpose for this trip: to search for, find, and kill that ever so perfect buck. Yes, morbid to me, but completely thrilling and exciting to them. But, whatever the reason that brought us to the wooded campsite up Harris Flat is of little importance. Of greater importance are the quiet moments in which lessons were learned.

I sat by the fire one night as I held down the fort (i.e. campsite). The smells of fresh wood burning and the sounds of its crackling invigorated me. I LOVE FIRE! I always have. Ask my mom. I grew up with a basement window that always filled with leaves in the fall-time. One fall I had the cleverest idea: to light the leaves on fire! Good thing our house was made of brick! That is all I have to say about that!

Anyway, I sat there one night while the men were out being men… the brave hunters they are. I stared at the fire for a long time. As I stared, I thought and thought, and just let my mind go. My thoughts turned to cleansing and to the idea that fire is a cleanser. I then thought about all the things in my life that I could get rid of which would ignite an internal cleanse of myself.

I had a notebook and pen beside me and I grabbed them. I started to write all the things in my life or in my character that just needed to go. Things that were in me, or a part of me, that needed to burn. To be rid of those things could help me be better, be cleansed. I tore the papers apart so that each word was its separate piece. I then crinkled the papers and one by one threw them into the fire. As I did this, I released that thing from my life. It was a peaceful night. It was an awakening for my soul. I could feel the cleansing from the powers of the divine. It was healing and it was good. I went to bed that night feeling lighter, feeling refreshed.

Just because I had that experience, I know it does not make me perfect, and I am not that naive to believe that I won’t ever again possess those characteristics that I burned that night. But, what I do know is that awareness, and the willingness to accept imperfection in ones self, and then to consciously “burn” those things, is a huge step toward being a much better human being.

So, upon returning home, although I still had piles of laundry to wash from our second camping adventure, it just didn’t seem to matter. I had moved one more step forward and toward progression. And it just felt right.

We stayed at the Marriott at Marnia del ReyWe ate at a fantastic restaurant in Malibu called Moonshadows

This past weekend we mixed it up a bit and became "groupies" of our friend Nick. He was playing in the Utah Open at Oakridge Country Club in Davis County. Since that is basically in our backyard, we decided to tag along. We had so much fun. I have only been to a couple live golf tournaments, but never to actually watch someone who I knew and was cheering on. So, to add the personal element of friendship made it that much more fun. At least for me. Golf is an amazing sport. It is so different to watch live, and I thoroughly enjoyed myself as we followed Nick hole by hole. He is a great golfer. So, keep your eyes open and watch for Nick Nelson in the golf world. He's pretty amazing! Go Nick!

Can't wait to stalk you during the next tournament!

I didn’t know what to do. At least, in my clouded mind, soul, and heart, so full of grief and confusion, in that moment of life, I thought I did not know what to do. But, looking back on that time, I now know that I did. I did know what to do. I did have my own answers. It was just a matter of articulating, processing, and trusting. Trusting my higher self. (That part of each of us that talks to ourselves in our head. That part of each of us that we usually tell to “shut up, you’re thinking crazy!” Only to think back and realize that maybe ‘higher self” was right all along.)

It was later in the evening. My husband at the time was down in the TV room, remote in hand, in his evening zone. Meanwhile, upstairs in my dressing room (a little cove to the side of our master where I would get ready for the day) I was face down and sobbing into the carpet. Body shaking, nose running, face soaking wet from tears, puffy eyes, splitting headache. That kind of sobbing. I had been there for quite awhile. I was pleading for someone to just hear me. For something or someone to just tell me what I needed to do! I was in the depths of despair. I was lost and feeling completely alone. I knew in my heart of hearts that this was a major turning point in my life, but which turn to take? I could not decide. I didn’t even know what my options really were. I just knew with my whole soul that something had to change. That I needed different. As I sobbed and sobbed, begged and pleaded, I heard a voice. I heard it so clear. It spoke in my head. I think that up to this point in my life, it was the first time I heard that voice and I didn’t try and shush it and tell it that it was talking crazy. I listened, and it simply said “You know where your path you are on right now it headed. You know what direction that one will take you. But, you will never know any different unless you try. Just go see what is out there. Try. You won’t be stuck, just go find out. You can always come back to here, but how will you know if here is really right unless you go see for yourself? Just go!”

Instantly the sobbing ceased. I sat up, leaned against the dresser, and just stared. Stared at the painting that hung on the wall in front of me and listened to the silence. I whispered, “Please just show me that I am not alone and that I won’t be alone” and in the moments after that whisper, I heard a click. Click. Click. The dresser drawer handles were clicking. I knew I was not alone. I felt the warmth, I felt the love. I knew things would be okay.

I went to bed.

After that night, I left. I moved out of my home that I had shared with my husband. I moved away from the life that we had had together for 11 years. I moved forward. I had to. I knew with great resolve that this was the right thing to do. Thanks to my higher self, thanks to the universal powers and the divine intervention that aided me, I knew.
So, as the opposition and resistance came at me from all ends, from him, from immediate family members, from extended family, from neighbors and friends. While they were all trying to tell me of my wrongdoings and poor choices; I stood firm. Because I knew.

Looking back at that time in my life I remember the loneliness. I remember the awful feelings of being so wrongly judged and so completely misunderstood. I remember wanting to shout out for everyone to hear that I was nothing that they were judging me to be. But, I did none of that. I remained silent. I thought silence was the best because I did not feel that my life or his was anyone’s true business. I felt that no matter what I said, judgments were already in place and feelings were already strong, so what good would my sentiments really be to anyone?

Silence does speak though. It speaks volumes. Maybe I should have shared more. Maybe I should have been vocal. But, I didn’t. I was too tired and sad and frustrated and feeling so alone. I didn’t want to fight anymore. Not with myself or anyone. I just wanted to focus on how life for me could turn in a new direction and begin for me.

That is when God sent me Ryan.

As a side note here, before I get to Ryan, let’s talk about God. I have struggled for a real long time to articulate what and who God is to me, always failing at each attempt. Is it a he, a she, a real person, a cloud, a power, something to fear, or not fear just love, is it really a father like I was raised to believe, is it a source to keep me in check and constantly provide guilt in my life, or is God even real?

Then I read a book. She described God for me. Exactly what I feel, and she said it! Finally! So, for me, (because Liz said it better than I could) this is God: “It is a proper name for the power to which I pray, to that indescribable power which makes me feel “warm”. I generally refer to God as Him, which doesn’t bother me, because in my mind, it is just a convenient personalizing pronoun, not a precise anatomical description or a cause for revolution. I have always responded with breathless excitement to anyone who has ever said that God does not live in a dogmatic scripture or in a distant throne in the sky, but instead abides very close to us indeed---much closer than we can imagine, breathing right through our own hearts. I respond with gratitude to anyone who has ever voyaged to the center of that heart, and who has then returned to the world with a report for the rest of us that God is an experience of supreme love. In the end, what I have come to believe about God is simple. It’s like this---I used to have this really great dog. She came from the pound. She was a mixture of about ten different breeds, but seemed to have inherited the finest features of them all. She was brown. When people asked me, “What kind of dog is that?” I would always give the same answer: “She’s a brown dog.” Similarly, when the question is raised, “What kind of God do you believe in?” my answer is easy: “I believe in a magnificent God.””

So, thanks to my most recent read, I have been able to settle the wrestling inside myself on exactly what I felt about the power that is higher. The divine in my life.

Ryan. He came into my life when I was most alone. I had Chal and Jannie and that was about it. Sure, I guess you could say I had family, but from my perspective at that time, not really. They seemed to me to be too busy consoling my soon-to-be ex husband and trying to figure out how to “fix” me. I say this without hostility or judgment or even bitterness. I say this most matter of factly. Because at that time, I really did see things that way. I now know that I may have interpreted the situation a bit harshly, and for that, I now apologize. But, nonetheless, in those moments of time I did not feel the closest to my family. I knew I had a choice. I could hate them and be upset and see them as disloyal and write them off forever, or I could just take care of me and be grateful for what God had given me, and that was Ryan. So, I did get somewhat bitter, and I was upset, but I got over it. I had a bright path a head of me and I was done being sad.

Ryan came into my life exactly three days after my night of crying into the carpet. That is how fast intervention sometimes comes. I didn’t choose that. I have no control. It happened because it was time. It was high time for change. Not just for me either, for both of us. It has been said many times that you better be prepared because you never know when life is going to throw you a curve ball. Just so you know, that is true. We were thrown into each others lives at huge turning points for both of us. He was just exiting a seven year relationship and I an eleven year. Together we were ready for change and we had each other to help make the transition a bit easier.

It has been four years since then. Four years of growth and change. Four years of building and cleansing. It has been amazing. It has been difficult. It has all been a huge journey of discovery. Discovery that would have never happened if I would not have listened to the voice that told me to “Just Go!” And, now I see that all along I did know what to do, I just needed to trust.

Just like the song says: the search is over... at least for this year. Jordan will most likely continue his quest to find that perfect buck, but we're done. He does have until Sept. 11 to do so. We did the annual camp trip to southern Utah again this past weekend and just returned tonight. Home sweet home... AHHH! Running water! What a luxury!

Well. Here are a few photos of what we encountered.

a coyote

If you are looking for something out of the Vegas "norm" but still Vegas, you should try out one of the resorts at Lake Las Vegas. It was relaxing. So nice. The perfect weekend getaway for the two of us. We still indulged in a little night gambling, but for the most part it was sunbathing, enjoying the resort, and of course: meeting new friends and people watching. AHH... the best!

Ever seen one of these signs?

This has been Ryan and me the last 8 months or so as we have struggled to know how to best help Jordan get through high school. It has been a lesson in patience, understanding, hard work, focus, and unconditional love for us.

I have been asked the question so many times lately, I just thought I would put this out there as a little teaser. To answer:

New Moon.

As you can see above, it comes out in November. So, get ready and if you are interested in attending our event, stay tuned as more information will follow soon. We are working with Jordan Commons again, and are almost positive that we will be able to secure an early Premiere pre-screen show at 9:30 pm...even though it doesn't officially come out till midnight!

Check in with us in the next few weeks as we are sure to have more definite information for all you Twilight groupies!

If you came to our event last year, then you already know why you want to come this year! If not... ask someone who came; they will tell you how fun it was!

It was time again this past weekend for our trip up to the arts festival in Park City. It was a gorgeous weekend. Sunny, breezy, and just the perfect amount of heat. We checked into our little condo right on Main Street called the April Inn. So cute. And, PERFECT location! Right in the heart of the festival. We met up with some friends later Saturday night at the Sidecar... Best pizza ever. Well, NYC is better, but this is dang close! the april inn

Happy Birthday to Melissa. And thanks to Naked Fish for a great celebratory meal!

Gotta love these summer nights! Dinners on patios, barbecuing on the grill, visiting different venues around our area, and attending a baseball game here and there... it can't get much better. How can it almost be August already? I live for these days all year long!

We had a family party at Carmen's tonight. It was an early celebration (by two days) for Dad's birthday, a reunion with Raenie since she decided to suprise us with another short visit, a reason to get Mijken out since her foot surgery, and an urge to seize the moments of hot weather when the pool is really enjoyable. Dad with the grandkids.

This one is for you Gayle. Although Ryan does not think this is very cool, I think he is so cute. This is Ryan back in 1971. The middle one is the original. I mimicked it and added the other two. Someday I will hang them in a special place, but for now, they are on the wall in the hallway.

20 days ago Ryan and I were watching the news and saw the report about a tragic accident that happened earlier that day in Bountiful. A one-year-old little boy's head was crushed under the tires of a big truck and he was in critical condition and rushed to Primary's. Upon hearing the news story my heart sunk. How tragic. I felt sick for the family. They lived in our community.

The next day I called my friend Jason. The reception was horrible. I asked what was up with his phone and he told me that he didn't have great coverage in the hospital. "The hospital?" I asked. "Are you sick? What is going on?" It was then that he told me about his little 18 month old nephew Alex who had been seriously injured the day before when run over by a truck in his driveway. Then the news story hit me even closer to home. Not just some random family in my community, but because of my friendship with Jason, I was connected. My heart sunk even more. It ached. I prayed.

Over the next couple weeks I continued to keep tabs on the little guys condition through his uncle. Every time I talked to Jason, the news was progressively positive. It was a miracle every day. Little feats that baby Alex had overcome, which for some may seem little, but for those involved, were huge.

This past Friday afternoon baby Alex came home. He is going to be fine. His head that was crushed is healing. He is eating. talking. interacting. all those things that just 20 short days ago most would have thought as an impossibility.

This morning in Centerville they honored him. This morning there was a public display of love for baby Alex. Ryan and I went. It was amazing to see community at it's best. They rode for a couple hours in honor of him. In honor of his family. In respect of miracles.

Thank you baby Alex. Although I do not know you, I know someone who loves you dearly. I have felt that love. I have loved you. Thank you for reminding me that we all have armies of angels watching over us, and for letting me see yours in action. .

We decided we wanted to venture up to Pineview on Saturday afternoon for the following reasons:

1) a beautiful drive up the canyon on the way there

2) a gorgeous setting upon arrival

3) we were dying to soak up some sun rays and tan our bodies

4) lots of people to sit and stare at

5) QT with each other

We were happy we went because:

1) mission accomplished on all above listed reasons

2) the water was so high and so warm that it was refreshing and just plain fun

It was time for Draper Days again this weekend! It seemed to me like this past year just flew. Like it couldn't possibly have been a year ago that we were were there last! We had such a good time with Jimmy and Sharon again, between garlic burgers, beer, listening to live music outdoors, taking in the ambiance, and relaxing in the summer night, it was perfect. This is then (England Dan and John Ford Coley)And this is now!

Only John Ford Coley. I guess England Dan is dead. Sad.

I wish I could have known him.

Sharon and I had to get in our photo opt with him.Thanks for a great evening! We love you guys!

It was Jess's birthday on Monday so we got together with a few friends on a patio and thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful summer evening with some good friends. I told her to strike a birthday pose, so these are the two that she chose. She is so talented!

Until yesterday I had never:
eaten at a restuarant in Heber City (which was really good!)

Ryan and I were trying to decide what to do to celebrate the 4th and were a bit stumped... until I read in the City Weekly that there is something in Ogden called "The Hot Rockin' 4th" at the local Ogden Stadium. We headed up the road about 21 miles and found ourselves mingling amongst some of the finest of fine residents of our great state of Utah! What a treat it was! We had such a good time, between our walk along the river parkway, dinner at Roosters on the patio, meeting new friends at Brewski's who hooked us up with tickets to the event, and last but not least... THE DEMOLITION DERBY! We have decided it will now be our 4th of July tradition. Those Ogdenites really know how to have some fun!
It was a good day!

Happy July 4th weekend!

We went to see what the Arts Festival had to offer again this year and like always... we were not bored or disappointed... we ran into some good friends: Morgan, Becca and Cindy here's Becca with her man Colter

Ryan and I have talked about how much we would love to go visit Glacier National Park and the surrounding areas, but when it comes to vacations and planning trips, being the beach bums that we are, it seems we always gravitate towards the ocean. Anyway, about a month ago when the opportunity presented itself to stay at my parents timeshare in Whitefish Montana just outside of Glacier.... we decided "Let's go! and let's take the kids along as well!" So, last weekend we left for our Montana adventure. Have you ever done that drive? Let me tell you, it was LONG!!!! We had no idea what 12 hours really meant until we did it! But, finally we did arrive. And disappointed we were not!

This was one of my hasty decisions that Ryan loves to tease me about (my haste fullness that is). A whitewater rafting trip in the middle of our day visit to Glacier. We had no towels, no swim suits, no gear.... just lots of enthusiasm for a great adrenalin rush and some memory makin! Aren't we so sexy in our wet suits? even better all geared up! They didn't have their cameras going on the rapids for us since it was such a last minute plan, but here is a photo of another group on the same rapids that we experienced. It was so much fun!

We left Whitefish MT and the Glacier Nat'l Park area Monday morning and headed for West Yellowstone. We decided last minute that we may as well take the kids through the park since we were "in the area" and weren't sure when we would make it back that way with them again. The last time they were there with their dad they were really young and have limited memories of the visit. It ended up being a great idea. The park as gorgeous as ever, the air crisp, and the day was beautiful.

On our way home we decided to take a jaunt through Jackson Hole so that the kids could visit there as well. We were so close, so why not take a quick walk through the touristy parts and grab a bite to eat? It was a beautiful day there and we arrived in perfect time for a nice dinner at "The Merry Piglets" .... kinda strange name for authentic Mexican, eh?

Ryan and I are so proud. That is why we went to Portland this past weekend. We received this little announcement in the mail of the much anticipated day (for years...) for Steph's graduation. So off to PDX we flew to celebrate with our great friend. Steph, you rock! We had so much fun in Portland with you! Thanks for giving us a reason (like we need one) to let our hair down (mine more than Ryan's: he thinks he is going bald; I think he is delusional) and play!

She met up with us Friday evening after she got off work at McMenamins.
Shortly after Ryan got his butt kicked in 6 games of pool by our new friend Todd, we were off in her BRAND NEW MINI to our friend Ralph's restaurant: Yakuza. Isn't she so cute? And, so is her car!
The dining experience did not disappoint. So good.
we had to have the signature beet martini. yum.
They had the windows all open in the front so we had an outdoor/indoor table. Oh, and bytheway: we had to travel to Portland to GET OUT of the rain. Yes, the weather was beautiful there, while all of Utah continued to get soaked.
Saturday morning with just a quick walk from our hotel, we were off to the Rose Garden for the big celebration.
Steph was one of 5,000 grads this year from PSU; 1900 of them walked on Saturday. There she is in the middle, can you see her?!!?

Good day. Proud moment.

Cousins Will and Kenzie playing together at grandma and grandpa Foutz'sWill was reaching for something... too cute. I finally got Ruby to want to take a photo! She is so cute posing with her daddy.
All the Sib's at the parents home for a quick BBQ before the two "non-utahan's" go back to Colorado to start their new lives.... Jake in Aurora and Raen in Pueblo. Our friend Kylee got married in Jamaica in May and she just celebrated here with family and friends 2 weekends ago at a backyard reception. Chal and I work with her mom Dana... the beautiful mother of the bride.

My nieces and nephews were in town while I was on vacation and I almost missed seeing them. Luckily I didn't have an appointment until 10:30 this morning so I was able to jet on over to mis padres house to see the gang. They are so cute and growing so much. I am sad that I have to introduce myself to them every time I see them because at least six months have passed since last time! They took a minute to warm up to me, but seriously now... who can't love their favorite Auntie Hannie? baby Chance

We just returned from heaven and like I promised... because I do always keep promises (at least the important ones) here is a little re-cap of our taste of what it really is like somewhere out there in the universe. Really, truly, if heaven is like Lake Powell... sign me up sister sue! The Moomba

Adios... We'll be blissfully vacationing right here... in heaven.

I'll tell you what heaven is like this time around

... but later...

Taylor was able to come spend another weekend with us! Sunday morning Grandpa Darrell wanted to take us all to brunch, so we headed over to Little America for some family time and good food.
Proud Dad. The other Taylor came along too!

The girls had reason to celebrate this week. Kammie had a birthday, Laurie found out her divorce is FINAL, Lucy Luc discovered she has a little cluster growing in her tummy, and plain and simple: our friendships amazing!at the Sandbar having a great time Mr RHB showed up a little later to flirt with all the girls. He "happened" to be at Lumpy's across the street watching the game... just between you and me, I think he decided to go there (out of all places...) cuz he couldn't wait to be with his girl Kamsters.
they share a certain love that I will never be able to give him.. wink wink

Happy Birthday to our dear friend Harmony!

We had fun with the girls on her birthday night at dinner, and then Saturday Ryan and I took her to Wendover for some pool time, play time, and good food at our favorite: The Steakhouse. All were good times... that is for sure! Can you see how much my husband LOVES photo opts?

He loves them so much, he takes pleasure in ruining every one of them. Look at him!

Taylor came this weekend to watch Kanab High School compete in the State Tournament for Baseball. Her boyfriend is one of the great players on the team and she was excited to see them play. We were happy that we could have her here for so many days, as well as her friend who came along. We did a little bowling one night so here's a few photos. Tay and SariRyan is a pro...what can we say?

Now for some baseball! What a weekend of games! Their first game on Thursday they played Juab and won 5-3, then Friday they played Richfield and won 8-6, and then Saturday for the championship game they played San Juan (Blanding) and beat them 14-13! They all three were INTENSE games and so much fun to watch. It got me all excited for summertime and watching the SL Bee's play while enjoying summer evening weather.

A HUGE congrats to the Kanab Cowboy High School Baseball team for taking STATE!!! Way to go you guys! Taylor G up to bat.Revelling in the championship moment, trophy in tow! Me and Tay before the gameSari and Tay showing their excitement right after the big winAnd... the two lovebirds: Taylor and Taylor

They both were so excited and I know how proud she was of him.

It was a really fun day.

We met up with the kids in Circleville Utah this weekend so that Jord and Ry could go do some fly fishing. The weather didn't end up being the greatest with a lot more wind and cold than desirable, but we tried to make the best of it by taking them to Bryce Canyon and hiking there for a bit and going to see the overlooks. We got to see Jord's pride and joy: his truck, stay in the 'world famous' Butch Cassidy Motel, eat at some really fancy diners, see beautiful country, and most importantly spend some time with the kids... something we definitely do not get to do enough.

Annette asked Chal and I to participate in a girls retreat on Friday night. We decided even though we don't like to scrapbook, it would be fun to go hang out with some ladies and make our own fun. So, that is what we did. We ended up putting a whole book together for Annette. We are just sooo creative! barf!!the hot tub was more fun... especially when chal fell backwards and flipped into the cold pool! that was pretty funny!

Happy Easter! Thanks Tara! I love my flowers!

Happy Birthday Hyrum! I can't believe how old you are getting! Ten already? This pic was taken a long time ago, but I couldn't find a more recent one of the two of us! It is time to get that camera out!

This is what I walked into when I arrived at work yesterday. It was a birthday blast right in my face, and so cute. Thanks so much Chal and Lucy for surprising me and making my day special!

It was past due. Girl trip time. So, Chal and I left on a jet plane and landed in Portland OR for yet another girlfriend adventure.
We dabbled a little in a lot of different things.

My amazing cousin Jeff, who lived his life for God, is gone. He was a youth pastor in Jackson, a wonderful husband and daddy, a friend to all, and an incredibly important part to a and loving family and extended family. Please send good thoughts and prayers to his wife Heidi, and adoreable kids Landrey and Dawson. Aunt Cris, Uncle Terry, Aaron, Cameron.... I love you guys. This REALLY sucks!

I love you Jeff. I never told you, but you are my favorite cousin... always have been.. I looked up to you so much, even during your crazy teenage years, I thought you were so cool. And, then as life has gone on, and both of us have changed so much, there has always just been this special connection that I have felt. A lot unspoken, but not all. You shared with me hope. You shared with me love. You shared with me compassion. You reached out to me in small ways during some of my most difficult times, and it was huge to me. You helped me want to believe when I didn't really want to. I didn't see you often, but knowing now that for this time you are gone, I ache. Say hi to Grandma Betty and Grandpa for me. To be able to see them again makes me jealous! Until it's my time... Thank you for your love.

Since I have known Ryan, I have traveled to Palm Desert with him in March to visit the Indian Wells Tennis Tournament that they host down there each year. It has now become our tradition and something that we anxiously await each spring. We just returned from our trip and here is a little re-cap...

Our condo view from the back patio:

A reminder to get back to that child-like simplicity.

Just a few more birthday wishes to my beautiful friends! Lauren 2.25.09Jodee 2.28.09 Jackie 3.1.09

I love you girls, and wish you a happy happy year to come!

It's your birthday, it's your birthday, you can party like it's your birthday!

We LOVE Tara, so we had to throw her a bash. It was a pretty significant year for her, so we did what we could to make her feel special. Cowgirl hat, boa, fun presents, huge cake, lots of friends, music, dancing and a walker to help her out at the end of the night! She got hooked up!

Hey pretty girl! Blow out those candles!
Kelly decided for one night, this group of friends could be "plan A" instead of the "B list" that we are usually on. Wow! He must really love you bday girl! the ones that are always behind the scenes making sure we all get together and have a good time! 'Designated Dallas' and Amber. Thanks so much for coming! Amber is a little rock star! Blaire and Nick. Photo says it all... Never a dull moment when we are with you guys!
wink wink

18 February 2006.... 3 years later...

When I think of Stan there are so many little things that come to mind. Little flashes of memories that over time my heart has taken thousands of pictures of.

He loved his late night snacks and because I spent so much time over at their home, I often would see him in the kitchen late at night dunking his oreos, or munching on popcorn, or scooping up a bowl of ice cream. I always knew he was eating because I could HEAR his smacking. It always cracked me up. He never forgot to offer some to anyone who was close by though, a sign of his never-ending generosity. In everything he did, he thought of others first. He was a true example of selflessness.

I remember all the times he would come home from work or school or a trip and be so excited to share a story, something that had happened to him while he was away, and with all his animation, excitement, and amazing story telling abilities, he would share his experience. He was so descriptive, not only with words, but with body language and motions, I felt I had been there by his side because I could just see the event unfold as he spoke.

Stan was so good at seeing the positive in everything. He rarely spoke ill of someone, and if he did, he was quick to apologize or take back what was said.

He was so easy to talk to, and so genuine in what he said. He had great advice and was always in tune with what a person needed to hear, and what he needed to share with them.

I never doubted that Stan loved me, not only did he show me through his actions, but he told me he loved me, something that not most guys his age are willing to say to a sister in law. He was always willing and ready to help me when I needed him, even if it meant that he was dropping his projects that he really should have been working on. He was never too busy for kindness.

Stan was very good at making me laugh, even at the most inappropriate times, like in the temple, during a prayer, during one of dads “sermons”, and in church. The only thing I would have to do was look at him and I would just laugh, and it was not just a laugh, it was always a gut laugh that was not easy to stop. I had so many good times with him just simply laughing.

I have such a vivid memory of his tenderness with Hyrum when he was small. He would sit on the couch with him, and Hyrum would have his head resting on Stan's lap, and Stan would just rub the inside of his ear, something that Hyrum to this day still loves.

I remember one day about 10 years ago when I passed Stan while driving. He was in his little Wonder Bread mini van, out making his deliveries, and I just waved at him, and he smiled and honked and was so happy in his nice “ride”. He was never too good for any job, he did whatever it took to support his family and make sure they were provided for, and he was always happy doing it. He was a true example of hard work.

I remember when Stan bought a used bed from a guy downtown. He went to pick it up, and like usual, he stroke up a conversation with the old man and found out that this man was a veteran from WWII. Stan said that he felt impressed to thank the man for his military service and for what he did for our freedom that we enjoy. He said that the man started to cry and commented that Stan was the first person in all these years that had ever thanked him for that. To me, this is just another example of Stan being in tune and not being afraid to act upon what he felt.

If Stan felt fear, he didn’t let it stop him. He was a man of courage and strength and you could just see that in him. To Stan there was never grey, it was black or white, wrong or right, and absolutely no in between.

Stan was so proud of his boys and loved them so much. He was so proud of Carmen and loved her with all that he was. Anyone who knew him could easily see and feel the great love that he had for his family.

I will always hold him, his memories, and his great example close to my heart, and will forever be grateful to have known him and to have shared so much with him. I will miss him more than I can express, but find comfort in knowing that he is in heaven laughing and smiling down on us. His memories will forever be a ray of sunshine in my life, even if a few tears are shed as they flood my mind.

I love you Stan, and I am so glad that I know that you knew that.


Hannie

RAENIE Happy Birthday to my little sister that has in so many ways been my big sister throughout the years.

I love you Rocko-peeko-traino!

dinner in? not typical, so very nice...even romantic...

king crab legs, salad, veggies, and favorite companion...

perfect.

This is dedicated to all you men out there. Bless your hearts for being so great to the important women in your life, and for making sure they feel extra special today. And, dedicated to all you women out there, for making sure you do the same for your important men, and giving them lots of warm fuzzies for all the fretting and fussing that consumed them in an effort to not make you cry! Happy V-day!

Have you ever felt like you know the world is buzzing around you, people coming and going, doing and playing, laughing and crying, working and working, running and walking....

on and on...

But, you really just want to exist. Nothing else.

I call it winter slumps. And I am completely enveloped in the such.

It was a beautiful day last spring, I had major winteritis, and it was one of the first days that you could actually go outside without a coat on and not freeze to death.... I long for those days to come again! SOON! I decided to take advantage of the sunshine so I drove downtown, parked, and just started walking. And taking photos. This is one of them. I am in love with so many of the old buildings downtown, especially the churches. I captured many of them but Raenie tagged me and told me to post my fourth photo in my fourth album on my computer. So, there you have it. Now, lets just pray that the weather portrayed in this photo will return again to us soon. Please Mr. Groundhog, bring us good news tomorrow!
SLC, UT

Miran! Mami y papi! No les precupen, estoy bien con mis tios!

Here's some mama loves for you Chal, because although I know you must be in heaven down in Mexico, how can you not miss your teenie texers!?!?

As soon as he got here, he was OBSESSED with Ryan's fish. FISH, FISH, FISH.... and on and on, until Ry got home from work and was able to take it off the wall for him to love.

He had to give it a kiss.Then they read about all sorts of wildlife (and of course fish) in Eastman's Hunting Journal. Do you like our selection of children's books? Then it was wrestle mania for the next half hour.
Then bath time, which turned into tsunami of the bathroom. HE is the fish! No wonder he is obsessed with those creatures!

You cannot be grateful and bitter.

You cannot be grateful and unhappy.

You cannot be grateful and without hope.

You cannot be grateful and unloving.

So just be grateful.

-Unknown.

Happy one year anniversary to us! This past year has flown. I can't believe it. But, it's been a good one and I could not be more happy and content than I am right now. So, thank you Ry, for being such a great husband and companion to me.

Dear Self,

Next time you decide to spend the afternoon with RHB in the PC (park city) and you're enjoying a nice lunch together and the conversation flips to how pasty white we both are and how much we both just really NEED to tan STAT.... well, maybe just maybe reconsider the impulse to find the nearest tanning salon at Kimball Junction just cuz it's such a great idea!

ok. so this is a bit extreme, but just remember, either one of you could look like this next time...

Caleb is FIVE today! We sure love you bud!

ry with megan and mark
RACE!!!

Happy Birthday baby Cache!
Tex and the minis (cam and nat's twins) had to open up his presents...

he didn't really get that part

I am so glad he finally tore that thing apart!

we had a little poker and fun at the rollins' the guys and gal (lana) played some cards while the other 3 birds had some fun a little seduction from lucy

My fastest time was 23 seconds. How 'bout you?

A little Christmas re-cap...I decided to go small this year. I didn't feel like digging all the Christmas decor out of boxes in the garage, so I just bought all new, and all smaller. It was so easy, but still brought the Christmas spirit into our home. Here are all of the kids presents nestled under our humble tree. Christmas for the kiddos. Christmas at Darrell and Gayle's.

These days of Christmas have brought joy to us, as we have given. We also hope that your heart has been touched and felt a little bit of heaven. And just in case you're wondering why we have done this thing. This time of year turns many souls to Christ, our Lord and King. He showed great love to everyone... now we give love to you.

Merry Christmas!

With much love,

your secret elves

Good ol' Gramps.
(Grandpa Memmott.. Chal's grandpa and Ryan's friend from way back)
We went over on Christmas day to reveal ourselves. It took a minute for him to register that we were his elves. It was so cute.
Ryan was dying over Gramps' retro house. He LOVED it! I was so shocked that after all these years of knowing him, Ry had never been inside his house.
We had a great time sneaking and leaving treats everyday, trying to be discreet.
We have decided to make this an annual tradition. We did it last year for a different couple and it was a really cool experience.
We love you Gramps!

Ryan called Caleb last weekend and said "hey bud, do you want me to come over so we can go make some donuts in the car?" Caleb replied adamantly back "NOOOOOOO!!" and promptly wanted to get off the phone. Ryan hung up, and was like 'fine then, just thought it would be fun..' A minute later Caleb called back begging him to take him "I mean yes I want to go Ryan, lets go make donuts.." So, Thursday I am on the phone with Carmen and she mentions that Caleb is wondering when Uncle Ryan is going to take him out in the snow. She recaps the story telling me that Caleb had initially taken him literally, thinking that Ry wanted to MAKE DOUGHNUTS in the car. After he hung up and his mom and brothers explained to him what donuts really were... well.. that explains the quick phone call back. What a character. Anyway, it was snowing badly today, and this afternoon we had an appointment near Carmen's house so I reminded Ryan of his uncle duties in the snow, so we went over to the Cranes and picked up the boys and took them to the local church parking lot... It was something like this: We had fun. At least I did. We probably are not on the favorite list of the local plow company though. It was all fresh snow, and lots of it.

Have you ever watched Jay Leno when he has "judgemental bastard" on? The guy from the Sopranos that goes around on the streets of NYC and predicts on camera all the history and characteristics of a person before approaching them, and then sees how accurate his judgements are by interviewing them...? Well, anyway, we were sitting at the bar at CPK, just enjoying the ambiance, people watching, socializing, and chatting away, when two middle aged women sat beside us and Ryan decided to be 'judgemental bastard'. So he whispered to me his predictions and then I dared him to interview them to see how accurate he was. We were laughing so hard. It was so funny, and I have to say, he was pretty spot on. The one thing he got wrong though was, he predicted that they were having dinner and then headed to a movie. NOPE... not tonight, for they had tickets to Niel Diamond. "Niel Diamond?!!" I said. Well then, hell, lets go baby! So......... after dinner, you got it, we scalped tickets to good ol' niel. (and for $15 baby!!) We never did sit in our seats, but we did sit in a few others that were much closer! We had such a blast. I am so amazed at his voice and how well he preforms and how exact he sounds in person versus on the radio or CD. Although we are not huge fans, it was way nostalgic to hear some of the songs, and some of his new ones are pretty great.

It was a random night, full of fun, circles in the snow, new friends, laughs, and some dancin' and singin'

Go Niel! You pretty much rock!

Friday was our friend Heiko's birthday so we celebrated downtown with a little Italian. Happy Birthday!
Jared has the AMAZING and WONDERFUL idea... to grow a mustache just in time for all the beloved family holiday photos. So, guess who else is on board? ...my man, Mr. RHB thinks it is a hilarious opportunity to grow a stache as well. Humm.. we'll see how long he can take it.

While wandering around my neighborhood DI a few weeks ago... you guessed it! I stumbled upon my fourth project. Mr. RHB was everything but thrilled when I announced my latest purchase. If anything is mentioned to him with his name and the word work in the same sentence, he instantly clams up, shakes his head, and pleads with me to 'knock it off'. It is just another one of those moments between us when I simply remind my dear sweet husband to "just love, don't hate." And again, he pulled through. Well, actually I need to take this moment to thank my wonderful father-in-law, for he is the one who got the truck, loaded this baby up, and delivered it to my garage. Thanks so much Darrell for taking the initiative and helping me out. You are such a great person. Originally I had a vision for this bad boy, and then it changed... And TA DA!

So obviously, that original vision was modified a bit. And, I even did the demo all my myself. If you haven't seen me lately, next time you do, make sure you check out my amazingly huge guns. I am quite the wonder woman. (i am kidding if you weren't sure) Thanks RHB for helping me move and re set up all the crap (cords, plugs, wires, tangled messes.. I hate AV) After a few choice words and a bit of work, I am sure he is relaxing as I blog, watching storm chasers, as you can see. (btw, can you guess what his first comment was after the set up was complete?)

(sad to say: if there is gambling, shopping, and gambling involved, it doesn't take too much arm twisting for the Bailey's)

We got a killer deal at the NY NY hotel and Casino. (even with just a few hours notice) Now is the time to go if you want great rates at decent places. Photo opts in one of our hotel rooms before dinner
boys doing what they do best... waiting for the ladies to be ready to go

We had a great "quickie" to Vegas. Stayed up most the night, slept in till check out time, gambled till 4, then hit the I-15, making it home at 11:30 pm. We really aren't too anxious to get 'back on the road again' anytime soon.
Thanks to the Wilde's for a mad time!

I felt really guilty tonight as I wandered through the isles of the Festival of Trees this year. Guilty that the dominating thought kept creeping into my mind of: 'look at all that crap I would be boxing up, lifting, loading, unloading, carrying into homes, unboxing, setting up, and arranging in the new owners home on Sunday morning'... That is, if I would have worked the festival this year. But, not this go 'round. I do miss it in some respects, but man it can be a lot of work. It was kind of nice to just attend.

Have you seen the new maxi slippers? They are everywhere this year! Stock up for Christmas... they make wonderful gifts at a really low price. Hope your holiday season is kicking off in an even flow...

Happy Thanksgiving! Wish I were this turkey... getting those rays of sunshine! It's OK though cuz we get to spend the weekend with Taylor and we're so excited to have her with us for a few days!

Hope your holiday weekend is fabulous... and remember: calories don't count today!

GO UTAH!!! I AM SO HAPPY WE WON!
Take that Provo!!!
(thanks to my s-i-l suz for the photo! it's pretty great, eh?)

Rise and shout, the twilight girls (and guys) were out! ... And now we are DONE!!! I wish I had more photos of the event, but it was just tooooooooo crazy and no time for photo opts. (If you were out at Gateway anytime this weekend you may have noticed our cute husbands peddling shirts for us. Thanks so much to our men for being such good sports!) Our last night of T shirt sales, and we are pooped. No voices, no sleep, no energy. All gone. ...Until next time.

But, before signing off, a quick shout to JORDAN COMMONS and their AMAZING staff, GATEWAY THEATRES and their staff, AND to our new friends out at JORDAN LANDING! They were so great to us last night out at the JL; Bryan and Kristen, and cute Christian at concessions... all of them were wonderful. So, if you ever frequent any of these 3 locations, just know there are really cool and efficient people behind the scenes making those movie nights happen for us all!

Who knew this movie would bring so much hype to the life of 3 Private Design girls, their families, and some of their closest friends? Who knew they could convince hundreds and hundreds to buy tickets to a party that they are hosting on opening night at Jordan Commons, sell 600 tickets in a few weeks and still have people begging for more, sell t-shirts with twilight logos at venue after venue and be asked to come to new venues with more to sell, collect over 250 raffle items from ready and willing business owners, and all the while cross paths with and meet some of the greatest people in our community? It has been a whirlwind and so much fun. Work? Yes, but fun. Thanks to my two comrades Chal and Liv for enriching my life and never leaving a moment for the dull to overcome....

Stay tuned... the PARTY starts Thursday!

If I could just be baking in the sun right now.... We are craving a beach vacation so badly, but know that we need to hold off till after the holidays. It will be our one year anniversary in January, so that is the perfect time to plan a little getaway. But... I am a bit stumped. Where should we go? We want it to for sure be warm, in the states, and not too terribly pricey. Any suggestions?

This past weekend was 'The Utah Women's Show' at the South Towne Expo Center and Private Design was there. Front and Center. We had a great time, met a bunch of wonderful women, enjoyed the chance to network, and worked REALLY hard!



We sold all of Private Designs favorite products, offered lip and brow waxing and make-overs using our Mirabella make-up line, and ...

And then there's my seattle girls that I miss so much. Come vist Rubix and Sierra Mist!! Let's play in the make-up!

Kenzie is bigger. How can it be? I just saw her less than two months ago. My little 18 month old sweetness. I miss you lovie.

God Bless America...

Halloween day. It was beautiful weather.

Every year The Barnson's host a hallo-weenie party in their garage. It is so fun to go see all the kids in costume prior to trick or treating. They are so amped up and excited, it's a riot.

Here's Gary being the perfect chef and host.
I'm "getting my head bit off" by the big bad wolf

Jamey had a party. It was fun. Dana, Jamey, Chal

A couple weeks ago I found my third project. I fell in love instantly with this piece.

I stopped at the post office this morning on my way to work to grab my PO box mail, and as I stood there making sense of it all: toss junk, keep cute cards like the one my sweet soldier bro sent to me from Iraq, and another that my cute little niece drew for me. Ahh, I love good mail.. and was thoroughly enjoying the sentiments I was reading when I was interrupted by a Skywest flight attendant "excuse me, do you have a phone I can borrow?" me: "well sure, it's in my car" So, while walking toward my car she told me she had locked her keys in her car, and that her spare was inside as well. Using my cell allowed her to contact her husband so he could come rescue her, and she could finally get home and in bed after a long couple days of work. So, I left and headed to work feeling like a real good Samaritan.

And then.... I decided on my way home from work to go to Corner 22. I really wanted a Diet Pepsi with 2 lemons. It just sounded so so good. I parked, got into my purse for the exact change. It's a buck five, if you're wondering, and I don't like to carry my whole office of a purse into a convenient store, only to dig out a buck five. Efficiency, that's what I'm all about. Well, usually. I went out to my car after my transaction, and while sipping on my ice cold goodness, I peered into the drivers window, and you guessed it. There were my keys, right on the console, and right next to them on the passenger seat sat my purse, and yes my extra key was in my purse. I marched back into the store, asked the cute clerk if I could borrow her cell phone... sounds awfully familiar, I know...

Ryan came to the rescue, and as we pulled away I said, "so do ya know of a good locksmith?" It was then that it hit him; we were not going home to get the extra key. There was no extra at that moment. He proceeded to lecture me. Or tried. I pretty much cut him off... "honey, everyone makes mistakes sometimes, don't hate, just love." Just about that same time, we pulled up to a red light right next to a Bountiful Policeman. Ryan motioned for him to open his window. We told him our dilemma, and he was nice. He met us there, and after about 10 attempts and 3 different tools, he opened my door. Relief.

Moral of the story. Leave your extra keys at home.

ps: i apologized to my man later on for ruining his golf score on his last hole... (that's when i called him.) he simply said: "babe, for you i will do anything, it's ok"

...he didn't hate, just loved...

Just a few tidbits that I came across recently. I loved them, so I wanted to share.

'Beginning today, treat everyone you meet as if they were going to be dead by midnight. Extend to them all the care, kindness and understanding you can muster, and do it with no thought of any reward. Your life will never be the same again.'

-Og Mandino

'It is the greatest of all mistakes to do nothing because you can only do little - do what you can.'

-Sydney Smith

Monday night my parents had a Halloween night for the cousins. My dad did a rocket launch first, then a big seafood dinner, then a homemade pumpkin pinata out front. The kids were so excited to get into costume and hit that round orange thing chuck full of sweet sugar highs.

Will wasn't sure what to think of all the commotion.

Thanks mom and dad, it was cute.

Sweetest Day is an observance celebrated on the third Saturday in October. It is an occasion which offers all of us the opportunity to remember loved ones, friends, relatives, etc.. whose kindness, friendship, and love we have enjoyed. Happy Sweetest Day to everyone.

Especially to my husband. Because I know how much he loves for me to affectionately dote on him and whisper sweet nothings into his ear, followed up by passionately gazing into his eyes, and kissing his neck, all the while repeating over and over "I love you baby, oh yeah, I love you baby"... he Absolutely LOVES that!

but, alas, that is not his present this go round. nope, i've got a better idea...

how 'bout you? what will you do for your sweetest?

My beautiful sister Carmen needs a new husband, and I really want a super cool bro-in-law. So, any and all readers: put on your thinking caps and go through your inventory lists of available men. Upper 30's and younger 40's would be great! I am on a mission, and I've invited you ALL to join in!

Love,

H

Happy Birthday Stan. I miss you like crazy... Everyone does...

ryan was craving spaghetti. good spaghetti. we love to support the locals. finally, we found a new restaurant we had never tried. the spaghetti was fabulous. the best sauce we've had, i think ever. we give it a bailey's thumbs up. if you live close, give it a try.
239 S 500 E SLC UT

ps: the bread was amazing too!