andhannie

bored of winter

2012-02-19T20:11:00.000-07:00

I know it's the winter blues... but c'mon!

It's not like I haven't been busy lately... even today, I ran some errands, went over to Chal and Ben's new home renno project and helped clean for a few hours, then went and got dinner for my man. (he's been sick all weekend, I feel so bad for him. there is nothing worse than feeling crappy, running a fever, and having cabin fever all in one)

And, as recent posts have shown, I have been up to a few things around my home as well. Humm....

How can I talk myself into feeling like it is ok to have NOTHING to do? That does not sit well with me. I was listening to the words of that one song, by that one country artist, (everyone else probably knows who it is, but I am terrible with "who sings what") which say: "You just might miss the point, if you don't slow down the pace. Life is not about the breaths you take, but the moments that take your breath away."

I know my husband thoroughly enjoys the small glimpses he gets of me a few times a year, when I am sitting. Like literally, sitting, doing nothing. But, even he, as much as he would like me to "be still" more often, admits that my stillness makes him somewhat nervous. He feels like there must be something wrong if I am not buzzing around him or someone else. So, tonight, after I hit "publish", I shall be still. And wait. For what? I have no idea. But hopefully the light bulb will soon turn on inside my bored brain. A new buzz will start, and my boredom frown will turn upside down. Into a smile.

russian parents

2012-02-12T13:18:00.002-07:00

I had to post this because it cracked me up.

My "Russian" Parents.

You can follow them here.

basement project complete

2012-02-11T20:20:00.000-07:00

I did it! And, I am so happy! Our basement office and work area are complete! I am posting this at the new office nook, and it is so great to have it done!

the carpet was installed yesterday
the computer hooked up today
all the rest of "our stuff" organized and put away today

a closer look the nook

because i have cabin fever.... this is what i do

2012-02-09T11:41:00.000-07:00

When I painted the master bath, I realized how much I did not like how badly not only the decorative strip of tile around the tub clashed with the new paint, but also the brown grout around all the tile. So, I had an idea and I ran with it. I painted the tile strip that didn't match, and I did a paint rub on every single line of grout... (time consuming, back breaking... but ALL worth it!)

here's before

here's after

before

after

finished!

and a close up of the newly transformed from brown to silvery gray grout

BASEMENT PROJECT... still in progress

So, I had this idea, asked Ryan if it would be ok with him, got his stamp of approval, and then I called Carter. Carter is my new favorite handyman. He is so efficient, and he knows how to do a lot of different things. I wanted to have an L shaped desk built in our basement so I could have a work table, and also a little "nook" for our desktop computer and printer. So, here is the progress as of now:

I still want to put in office-like carpet, add more drawers underneath, and get a couple office chairs.

ready to rumble

2012-02-05T15:34:00.001-07:00

Bogey is just chompin' at the bit... ready and geared up for the Superbowl!

(like father like son... Ryan really did find him sitting on the couch like this! It is not staged!)

talent time

2012-02-05T15:28:00.001-07:00

On Friday morning, Carmen and I went to Nicholas' (AKA: Nick, because at Jr. High School this is what he goes by) ;) talent show. The theme was Mr. Roger's Neighborhood. It was pretty clever, and he did a great job at his 2 ventriloquist performances featuring his puppet named Cracker Box.

and, then we headed to Draper Elementary to attend a puppet show with Caleb and his class, afterwards helping him make a new puppet in his cute little classroom.

... and then we went to lunch for some much needed girl/sissie time.

It was fun to mix it up a bit on a Friday. I am usually just doing chores all day.

Thanks for hanging out with me Carmie!

proud aunt

2012-01-26T19:39:00.000-07:00

I'm really proud of my nephew.

Why?

He's more domestic than me. (...ok so maybe that's not such a feat...but still!)

Hyrum made himself an apron at school. And, according to his mom, the lines are sewn really straight. He did a great job in 7th grade home-ec.

paint mbr. check.

2012-01-23T08:42:00.000-07:00

I finally decided on a paint color for our MBR! So, this weekend... any guesses what I was up to?

out with the old color...

and, in with the new!

The new wall color is called silver case.

It looks white in this photo, but if you contrast it with the window ledges, you can see that it is definitely not white. I love it. It makes the space look bigger and clean. I ache like I have the flu with all my sore muscles from reaching, taping, painting, touching up, and cleaning. But, it is all worth it now.

1.19.12

2012-01-22T13:51:00.003-07:00

Happy 4 years to us!

catch up

2012-01-22T13:50:00.002-07:00

CHRISTMAS DAY

santa brought me an ipad

and a cool scrabble game for Ryan

Ryan with Darrell and Gayle on Christmas day

NEW YEARS EVE

Craiggers!

Ryan and I having fun (like kids) with the balloons

Paula, Tara, and our new friend Brandon

And... on new years day, Caleb turned 8!!

dallin: on kenzie

2012-01-15T21:59:00.000-07:00

I had to steal this post from my sister Raenie's blog.

(sorry rocko, I know you've gone private, but this is too cute!)

"We lovingly tease Kenzie for singing while she goes to the bathroom. It's actually really cute and I'll be really sad when she out grows that stage. While she was using the potty, Dallin drew this picture on the Magna-Doodle. I'll translate: Kenzie is sitting on the toilet. I especially love her bum and the music notes. What a crack up!"

goofy

2012-01-13T21:45:00.000-07:00

The kids and I were messing around with my ipad camera...just taking goofy pics and having fun.

Looking at them makes me miss those little buggers even more.

The end.

colorado

2012-01-11T22:54:00.003-07:00

My week in Colorado...

I spent it loving on my bro Jake's kids. They are so sweet, and such good kids. I love them so much, and although my heart is sad that I had to leave them and come home, it is also so full because of how happy they make me.

Gid at bathtime

Stan and Chance too

Chance on swing

bedtime for Gid

their mom...

Stan being so good while getting haircut

Chance was not happy about this occasion

but, he finallhy let Miss Danielle cut his hair (after a lot of bribing)

I traced all the kids, hung them up, and then let them color in their bodies.

Ruby and Sierra right after we did their hair for the day.

wrestling with Aunt Hannie. I think they are killing me!

Me with my sissie Rocko

Kenzie, Dallin, Stan, Ruby, Chance, Sierra

Alayna and Gid

sweet gid

Thanks for letting us come visit for the day Raenie!

street fire

2011-12-27T20:21:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I went to dinner tonight. It was good, a nice meal and night out. But, that wasn't the highlight... We were almost home, and as we pulled onto Oakleaf Lane, this is what we came upon:

ashes still smoldering and put in the trash can...not a good idea...

Ryan called the fire department.

It took them 7 minutes to arrive, and the fire got pretty big. It very well could have caught the lawn, and then house on fire. I rang the doorbell, and it took awhile, but eventually the owner came outside. Just in time to see the firemen save HIS day.

Lesson: DON'T THROW YOUR ASHES AWAY!! Put them in a metal can and let them sit for a LONG time!!

merry

2011-12-25T10:16:00.002-07:00

Merry Christmas.

With Love.

quiet eve

2011-12-24T21:37:00.000-07:00

Merry Christmas Eve.

a quiet evening, just the 2 of us.

Train to Sports, Dinner, Movie, Train to home

...and the city will finally sleep...

pueblo pride

2011-12-18T21:22:00.000-07:00

The 3 cutest kids that reside in Pueblo!

My sister Raenie's kiddos, Alayna, Dallin, and Kenzie.

I love you guys!

foutz fam

2011-12-18T20:58:00.000-07:00

Tonight we had the Foutz sibling Christmas gathering at Carmen and Kelly's. We had dinner, a gift exchange, a performance by Nicholas the Ventriloquist, and a birthday celebration for Will and Andrew.

It was nice to be together and share some cheer.

Nicholas and "Freak Out" doing their act. He is actually pretty good. He says he loves Jeff Dunham, and that's who inspired him.

Will turned 4 on the 17th, and Andrew is 11 on the 21st.

These poor kids who have Dec. birthdays!

tradition

2011-12-17T13:42:00.000-07:00

Our annual tradition.

Usually we have the kids with us. But, they couldn't make it this time.

Merry Christmas!

special visitor

2011-12-17T10:52:00.001-07:00

Last night Santa came over on a special errand to scold Mr. Bailey for his Scrooginess. Apparently the Jackson's across the street tattled. They told Santa that I had complained to them about being the only home on the street with no Christmas lights outside. All because of my husbands lack of Christmas cheer. Mr. Claus explained how important it was for ALL of Oakleaf Lane to outwardly express holiday festiveness by putting up lights. Ryan promised Santa he would do better next year.

We'll see if RHB keeps his promise in 2012...

finale

2011-12-15T00:52:00.000-07:00

Thanks Sharon, for another great year of poker playing. But, more importantly, for another year of some really good times, laughs, and friendships!

And, the year would not be quite complete without the finale...

Sean and his friend John Denver! ;)

Lastly, Congrats to the 3 finalasts: Shane, Ryan, and B-Rock.

I promise, in 2012, at some point, I am going to take ALL of you down! (even RHB!)

real lasagna

2011-12-11T19:46:00.001-07:00

It doesn't seem like 12 months have passed since we celebrated Giovanni's birthday... but it has! We went over to the Spitale home last night for some amazing, 'real' homemade lasagna (at the Bailey home, we fix Stouffers frozen) and good company. All in a petite effort to celebrate the birthday boys beginning of his final year of his 30's.

None of us were too energetic. It has been a long week for everyone. We'll be saving and storing the energy and excitement for his 4-0 next time around... ;)

Brenda, Giovanni, and Erin Spitale

dc destruction

2011-12-02T21:00:00.001-07:00

When Ryan and I first met, the topic of where the most ideal place to live in Utah came up.

As I am a mid-westerner, I didn't really have a strong opinion. Coming from them-there parts, anywhere is fine, everyone is our friend; we like 'em all. BUT, when I learned that HE, on the other hand, had a very strong opinion about geography in Utah, and where he would and would not like to reside... that stuck my Arien side, my ears perked up, and then I thought that I should have an opinion. So, since the business that I started in Utah, and the clientele I had, was in Sandy, I was all of a sudden a South Valley girl. I was only going to reside, and establish myself there. He swore to me that if I would just give the DC (Davis County) a chance, I would fall in love, and never want to leave. I didn't believe him, but I was in love with him, so I trusted, and I followed....

Yesterday,

while South Valley was asleep and oblivious, this is what happened in the DC:

First off, this is where, during the months of March-October, my husband resides:

and this is what 106 mph winds did to it:

and, then this is just a photo of the Centerville McDonald's sign that happened to make the national news... It was a CRAZY storm!!

Luckily, all is well on Oakleaf Lane... no destruction, no loss of power, no mess.

And, I have to admit that I really do love residing in the DC...

black friday vegas

2011-11-27T18:24:00.000-07:00

Instead of shopping, we went to Vegas on Black Friday. We met our "out of town" friends for 2 days.

ryan and "seattle" jared

me and tara with "charlotte" melissa

the girls posing inside one of our favorite things to collect

and, me with "german-charlotte" heiko

(i had to give him some love as i was reminding him of a time when he 'taught me how to dance')

never again

2011-11-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

Note to self:

Dear Self,

If you are going out of town the day after thanksgiving, and you realize the evening before that your coffee pot is broke, the prilosec is gone, and you need a multi-vitamin... maybe you should re-think venturing out to fetch those 3 measly items. It won't be worth it. I promise.

I had my 3 items in hand. But I had to fight all this to pay. It wasn't worth it. I went home empty handed. (sorry store workers, I left my stuff on top of the coke by the exit)

Those people were animals!

happy thanksgiving

2011-11-24T00:10:00.001-07:00

Have a grateful heart, atleast for one day...

jelly to my pb

2011-11-19T13:33:00.000-07:00

Kinda cheesy... I KNOW! But, it still made me smile.

And today, as we said good-bye to old condo tenants, and hello to a new, someone at the beginning stages of a divorce after 35 years of marriage....Just meeting him made me once again realize how grateful I am for the "laces to my sneakers", and the companionship that Ryan and I have. It's not easy all the time to be in a relationship, a marriage. But, I wouldn't have it any other way, and it's those challenges that we have faced and conquered, that cause pause within, and remind me how grateful and happy I am.

...and I wasn't even trying to be grateful cuz of Thanksgiving... but gratitude must be in the air. ;)

mike and lo

2011-11-13T11:27:00.000-07:00

On 11.11.11 it was my good friend Lo's husband Mike's 30th b-day. She deciced to throw him a party downtown at Bourbon House. It was fun to hang out in a different setting, as most of our socializing happens at Private Design.

me and lo

mike's cake

friend clint's cake

lauren gently feeding mike his first bite

(she wanted to shove it, but he would have nothing to do with it...what a good wifey)

five pieces of my heart

2011-11-09T21:37:00.001-07:00

I couldn't resist. My little sis just got back from a visit to my brother Jakes' house to pay a visit and give some warm auntie fuzzies to his kiddies. He is doing his duty overseas at the moment, so any help to their mom is a welcome. I cannot believe just in 3 months time since I've seen them, how much bigger they have gotten.

Chance, Ruby, Sierra, Stan, and Gideon

xoxo, love you kiddies!

Ps: thanks rocko for sharing love and photos

just cous

2011-11-06T18:29:00.000-07:00

it must be something to do with cold weather cuz i'm in the mood to create in the kitchen.

ever heard of this? i changed the recipe on the back a bit. and, even mr. bailey likes it.

heat

2011-11-06T13:46:00.001-07:00

It's firetime. It's snuggle with blankie time. It's Sunday football time.

I love being warm. And since I can no longer sun myself, I'll just lay next to this.

first snow

2011-11-05T12:18:00.002-06:00

Our first snow

Bogey L-O-V-E-S it.

It's a pain cuz he gets so wet when he goes out, but he prances back into the house wagging his tail, all excited. It's hard to not be happy for his new found fun, even if it is a mess.

in the basement on friday

2011-11-04T23:33:00.000-06:00

My Friday night was spent organizing the basement. I went to Ikea earlier today and purchased a bunch of canvas bins and supplies. I was so excited for my project. Here is the result:

the necessities

"food storage"

bins labeled

mostly Ryan's stuff

my wrapping table

another comfort food

2011-11-02T21:22:00.000-06:00

I'm so proud. In a joint effort tonight, Ryan and I made creamy chicken enchiladas for dinner. A first for us both. Although they were tasty, and I am so excited for leftovers tomorrow for lunch, we both decided that the recipe could use a little further tweaking. But, for first-timers, I give us a high five.

birthday dinner

2011-11-01T19:56:00.000-06:00

And, on our last night we celebrated Jared's birthday at a nice and quiet Italian restaurant in downtown Bellvue.

Cheers to a really fun visit, and to our friend, the birthday boy.

Thanks Jared! You're a great host. It was a good time!

halloween

2011-11-01T19:52:00.000-06:00

I've changed my mind about Halloween. I used to not really care for it much. But, I've decided that it is the coolest. It brings out the inhibition in even the most shy, the fun and lively sides of the more serious, and the silliness in most everyone.

getting in character before we leave for the night

Jar Po with Karla

Upon entering "Seduction" they were putting the final touches on her painted costume

In their DWTS pose

1502: pocock pad

2011-11-01T19:44:00.000-06:00

Views from Jared's Balcony at the 1502.

I love to mess with the Po Man. He makes it easy.... Ryan and I miss him in the SLC, but have decided that his place it not a bad place to visit.

awe, I missed our friend!

"c'mon, show me a goofy face." wierd... jared, goofy?!?

Jaarred... you're just so cute... those little dimples

pikes

2011-11-01T19:34:00.000-06:00

Our trip to Seattle to visit Jared. We began with a visit to Pikes Place.

such pretty, fresh flowers for sale everywhere

The Original Starbucks

I loved the colorful pepper displays

The fish market

"the gum wall"

Y-U-M !

pirate boges

2011-10-31T07:13:00.002-06:00

Pirate Bogey wishes you a Happy Halloween!

gem 7

2011-10-30T22:30:00.001-06:00

"Honesty is not only morally right, it's also efficient. You save a lot of time not double-checking."

gem 6

2011-10-29T22:20:00.001-06:00

"A good apology is like an antibiotic; a bad apology is like rubbing salt in the wound."

What I did was wrong.

I feel badly I hurt you.

How do I make this better?

I'm sorry you feel hurt by what I've done.

I apologize for what I did, but you also need to apologize to me for what you've done.

...you decide...

I think option #1 sounds lots less painful. I'm all about avoiding unnecessary pain.

gem 5

2011-10-28T22:10:00.000-06:00

"A lot of people want a shortcut. I find the best shortcut is the long way, which is basically two words: hard work."

all chopped and ready

2011-10-28T18:13:00.000-06:00

Ryan has been hard at work in the evenings when he gets home from work. He finished his most recent project last night, and he's so proud...and so am I.

Our energy saving heat source for the winter.

gem 4

2011-10-27T21:33:00.001-06:00

"Experience is what you get when you didn't get what you wanted."

This reminded me that although both Ryan and I were previously married, either marriage, for different reasons, ended up working out. Neither of us went into those vows thinking it to be a temporary situation. We both wanted "forever". But, it wasn't meant to be. Looking back, we both see that as a result of those failures, we gained. We became more introspective. Our inner strength and our souls were stretched further than we thought possible. We faced challenges that we never thought we would encounter. We both failed to get what we originally intended, but we armored ourselves with experience.

And, we found each other.

Together, we still don't always get what we want, individually and collectively, but no matter what the outcome, we will always gain experience. And, we'll gain it together.

gem 3

2011-10-26T21:25:00.000-06:00

"It's not how hard you hit. It's how hard you get hit...and keep moving forward."

gem 2

2011-10-25T21:19:00.001-06:00

"Hip is short term. Earnest is long term"

Styles, trends, fashions, fads... they are all hip, for a minute.

True, all in, hard work. That sticks. It builds character. Earnestness... it stays with you, it defines you, forever.

gem 1

2011-10-24T20:51:00.001-06:00

"Walt Disney's dream for Disney World was that it would never be finished. He wanted it to keep growing and changing forever."

In my life, I am the project queen. I love to-do lists. I love checking the tasks off the list once completed. I find such satisfaction in doing this, even though I am the only living soul who ever sees the list, and after all the tasks are completed and checked off, I throw the list away. But, it's just one of my things. I like doing it. It makes me feel good.

As much as I am a doer, a starter, and a finisher; I realized in reading the words above, that my life must not always be about a finished product. As in everything in life, balance is best. Reading those words reminded me, and taught me, that joy is in the doing, in the expecting, in the unknown, in the process...

We often hear people say that the best part of a vacation is not the vacation, it is the anticipation of the unexpected, the break, the prep, the butterflies in the tummy before leaving, the hype...

So, what I learned, when Randy talked about Walt Disney never wanting Disney World to be a finished product, was that:

It is the "in process" aspects of life that bring the most joy and success.

So, will I get rid of my to-do lists? Never. It is part of who I am. But, I will dedicate myself to remembering that not all things have to have a date of completion. I think Ryan would be happy...if he ever read these words I just typed, because maybe in the application of this life lesson to my life, just maybe his will be a little easier. My actions will speak louder than these words though, so even if not read, they will be felt.... he's one observant man. He'll notice.

unexpected wisdom

2011-10-23T20:49:00.000-06:00

Ryan and I drove down to St. George this weekend to see his kids. Earlier this summer he promised Jordan a golf weekend, just the two of them. So, true to his word, he booked the golf, I booked the hotel, and like a good team, we headed down south. He and Jordan played on the golf courses, Taylor and I sunned ourselves at the pool.

At least half of my sunbathing time was spent alone, as Tay had work and other things to do (like tending our dog... thanks sweets for doing that!). Anyway, I brought a book along with me. I had no idea how much I would learn. How much I would love this book. But, because of our quick escape from reality, I was able to, in my alone time, not only soak up some sun, but some really great words of wisdom as well. If you have not read this book... read it. For real. It's a good one.

In my next few posts, I will share some of my favorite gems from this little hard back.

choppin' wood

2011-10-15T17:58:00.002-06:00

It was a beautiful day today. Perfect for a drive up into the Uintahs.

Ryan and I decided on one more drive up for another load of firewood.

Lumberjack Bailey

It's almost down...

WATCH OUT! It's comin' down!

Taylor went with us. It was nice to have her muscles!

Gym? Who needs that? Just go get wood, there's plenty of weight lifting in this activity!

and... we made it home, with the whole load.

google is so smart

2011-10-11T20:25:00.000-06:00

For all you DIYers out there, I am posting this to save you some grief! I did not think to google: how to extract a stripped screw, until tonight. Sunday night was when I needed this. It would have saved me the trouble of using up my swear word allowance for the week all in one half hour! I started a project on Sunday, and I finished it 5.5 hours later, minus one handle. The stripped screw one! I changed out all 52 pieces of hardware on all my cabinets. I am satisfied to say, that it is complete, now with this exta tid bit.

vibram

2011-10-10T23:07:00.001-06:00

Although I will NEVER be sporting these to prove or make some fashion statement, I do humbly admit that I owe my BIL Charles an apology. They still are very weird looking, but I am wearing them... but very selectively. He was fashionably parading these a few years ago (in puke yellow..yuck! aren't my grey and pinks much cuter? ) . My reasons for the splurge are much different than Charles' though. His = to continue to carry on and state and overstate his weirdness and need to be different...or cool? Mine = I looked at my bare behind one too many times in my full length a few Fridays back, and decided it was high time for an intervention. My 2 year break from cardio and the gym have really taken a toll. These babies are supposed to be gentler to my poor abused, over worked, over surgereid x 3 knees (a big reason for giving it all up... but I could have done elliptical, I just opted for lazy)

My first date with these puppies was STRAIGHT up Eaglewood Dr... and then back DOWN. Back in my race days, I would have been running straight to the doc after that abuse. I have to say, no knee pain. I was impressed, but now, it sucks, cuz I have no excuse. Well, maybe the rain? The colder weather? The lack of daylight in the early morning? There's always something, eh? We'll see if I can muster out of me some pent up motivation. ;)

...if only ryan wouldn't have canceled that gym membership auto pay...

Then I would have maintained the momentum...

HA! I just made myself chuckle!

vitameatavegaminly good

2011-10-10T14:34:00.006-06:00

Remember the "I love Lucy" Vegemite episode? All of those shows, no matter how many times you see the re-runs, are funny. Kinda like Seinfeld. Anyway, Ryan and I spontaneously went out the other night, (big surprise, right!?) and we ended up at the Piper Down. Unbeknownst to us, they had invited an impersonator to preform for the night. Jason CoZmo. He/she is from Magna, but currently resides and preforms in NYC. It was a fully and completely entertaining event. We were happy to happen upon it.

It was like we were watching the real thing, only live and in color!

Lots of laughs... good for our health.

comfort food

2011-10-08T17:31:00.000-06:00

Today I woke up early. Earlier than I would wish to be awake on a day off. It was cold. Extra cold. My tummy grumbled. I was hungry... one of those days that even early in the morning hours, it felt like it was time for comfort food. And to me, comfort food = crock pot.

I dug in the freezer. There was a turkey breast. So, by 8:30 am, in the crock pot simmering on low I had: turkey, chopped onion, 3 chopped apples from our tree, a handful of chopped carrots, 1 chopped potato, and a can of cranberry whisked with an envelope of onion soup mix.

At 5pm it tastes scrumptious. It is especially comforting after yet ANOTHER painful Ute loss...

roots

2011-10-07T10:42:00.000-06:00

I don't think my roots have ever been this grown out. For someone in "the industry", I should be embarrassed. But, I am not. I look at it as an accomplishment in patience.

I won't lie though, I sure am excited for Jamie to fix me in a few hours!

normie

2011-10-04T23:15:00.000-06:00

Tonight was a celebration of our friend Normies 71st Birthday!

Can you believe this man? At 71 he has more gusto and energy to dance than my own husband!

Gotta love Norm. ;)

He planned his own party, and he had a great turnout!

me with my good friend Sharon

And, here's to the Birthday boy! I can only pray that there will be many more celebrations of life to come for this old man!

jo

2011-09-29T10:16:00.000-06:00

JoAnn Blaisdell Warr

1946 ~ 2011

"Jo - JoBear - Jo mombee"

Jo would walk into a room and the sun would brighten, moods would improve, children were made happy. At home, Sunday the 25th, 2011, surrounded by many loved ones, we lost Jo to that brutal enemy cancer. That much used term "a courageous battle" certainly applied to her. We loved her dearly and will miss her so much.

Teaching was her passion and it showed in the love and hugs from all of her many students. She loved them all in return. Her skill and effectiveness in teaching is shown in the future lives of close to the 1000 students that she taught over 35 years.

After teaching she was happiest traveling. Roaming Europe with hubby or relaxing in Mexico with her brood. All 12 of us were in Mexico on a wonderful trip two months before the devastating news. She also thoroughly enjoyed the west desert, Moab, Zions, or whatever hot spring we could find, soaking with Dan and Birdeen until our toes got wrinkled.

Music was another pleasure, whether being the most animated singer in a choir, rocking out at Red Butte, or listening to her I-pod.

Jo is survived by her husband George; children Jamie Justet (Matt and Jersie), Jeff Larson (Annie and Grace, Lily, Ruby), Mike Larson (Monica); brothers Steven Blaisdell (Cindy), David Blaisdell (Ginger), Ron Blaisdell (Carla) and sister Barbara Christensen (Scott). Also, all of the much loved Warr clan, 1 ex and family, many cousins, nieces, and extended family. For all of the support of Steve, Marsha, Judy, and Charlotte, many thanks.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, October 1, 2011 at 12:00 noon at the Mountain Oaks Ward, 11570 So. Wasatch Blvd. Friends may visit Friday, September 30, 2011 from 6-8:00 p.m. at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 East 10600 South, Sandy and also at the church one hour prior to services. Interment to follow at Larkin Sunset Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a trust fund for the education of her four grandchildren. For information, please contact a family member. Online condolences: www.larkincares.com

radiant jo

2011-09-29T10:12:00.001-06:00

Dear Jo,

I have wanted to take the time to share something with you. For obvious reasons, you have been on my mind often. The past few times that you have been in the salon for your appointments with me, I have felt very emotional. Tears very near the surface, and a few times some have escaped as we have spent our time together. The first couple visits, I attributed the emotions to sadness for what you have to endure, to the fear of the unknown, to the high emotions of your kids, especially Jamie. Also, to the pain that you have been experiencing, and all the obvious multiple other changes that have forced your vibrant lifestyle to shift to a place you never expected to be, or asked to take over. Although these are all reasons for tears and emotions, last week when you were in, and I was feeling this emotion, something shifted inside of me. After you left I was thinking a lot. I realized that I had been labeling these feelings wrongly. What I have really been feeling when I have been in your presence is love. A love that is so overwhelming, it brings tears. It is different from love that I have known because it is not a parent-child love, a spousal love, a friendship love, or an animal love, because I have felt those loves before, and this is different. What I have felt when I am around you is a divine love. It overwhelms me, because of its all encompassing presence, but I love it. Even if you do not know it, you carry divine love everywhere you are. I don’t know if you have been told this, but if not, it doesn’t mean others are not feeling it.
Thank you for your example of bravery, of courage, and of acceptance. I have loved and enjoyed you so much, from the first time I met you. And, over the time that I have spent around you, I have learned a lot about the type of mother I want to someday become. Really, I have. And, since April, I have learned more from you. Simply because of the way you have approached what has been dealt.
Because of the person you have been your whole life, an amazing amount of people are in your cheering section. For that reason, I am convinced that there is divine power continuously flowing around you. It brings out beauty when you don’t feel it, courage when you don’t have it, strength when yours is gone, and radiant love surrounding you full-time. All of which, those around you are privileged to feel along with you. I thank you for this. My one true hope and wish is that this experience will be over soon for you, but that the love that surrounds you will continue on, even after your body is once again whole. And I know this will happen. You are going to get better.

My season tickets for this season of your life have already been purchased, and I’m one of those in your cheering section. It’s an honor to be a part.

--- I sent this letter to her in June, just a few months after her diagnosis. I was so sure she would beat it, and heal. Sometimes, hope is all you have to hang onto. And, sometimes, things unravel much different than hoped. Now, it's time for acceptance. She is gone. But, not really. She marked my heart forever.

need a project

2011-09-21T20:18:00.000-06:00

So, I have a project bug. I was sick of our light blue comforter, but couldn't decide on what I wanted to do. So, when in doubt, go white. And, that's what I did. I REALLY want to paint the MBR walls, and therefore the bath. I just can't find the right color. I want subtle and soft, not white, not taupe. I'm thinking light grayish, greenish, blueish.

Any suggestions?

golden gate and lombard

2011-09-19T13:30:00.000-06:00

It wouldn't be a complete trip without a visit to the bridge.

and, the windiest street in America: Lombard.

10 years later in a crowded stadium

2011-09-18T12:00:00.000-06:00

We were at the 49er's game on 9-11.... 10 years later.

It was an incredible energy inside as we paid tribute to our country and honored our freedom.

God bless the USA.

It was a proud moment to see the soldiers bring out the flag, display it, and then march it back out.

My heart was with my brother Jake who is in Afghanistan.

HuAH .

first time nfl game

2011-09-18T11:00:00.000-06:00

We took MUNI to Candlestick park, and on the way we passed by the Giants stadium. They were playing at the same time, so it was a busy day for sports fans in SF.

Our first glimpse of Candlestick

We were DIE HARD 49er fans for a day!

checking out the staduim before the game in the upper bowl

our seats

Section 3, Row U, seats 12 & 13. Enzone. Not bad for last min $34 ea!

and, they won. Good times.

chinatown

2011-09-17T10:30:00.000-06:00

We went to Chinatown on Saturday morning during market time. Amazing masses of people... we felt like we were in China. I love that there is so much culture in one big city.

and... of course, the diva in me could not help but notice the salon stuff... ;)

It is, afterall, my calling in life...

alcatraz

2011-09-16T10:00:00.000-06:00

Our 2 hours in prision.

san francisco... a nice treat

2011-09-14T23:39:00.001-06:00

Did you know? I am famous in San Francisco.

While waitng for the MUNI (SF transit), I snapped a photo of me on a city billboard...

Who would have thought?

Here are a few photos of the city.

It was great fun to explore.

garden fresh

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

A first for me. I made homemade spaghetti sauce. With Ryan's tomatoes and green peppers.

It took a long time, but it was kinda fun. I may do it again. We'll see how much we love the final product.

Ta Da!! I made 2 jars!

(And it was 11 pm when it was done simmering... I started it at 5)

handcrafted with love

2011-09-07T18:50:00.002-06:00

My dad was at it again in his shop. Crafting away at his latest gift for all his kids. He made one of these for each of us 6, and our spouses. It is a puzzle, a piece of art, and beautiful wood work. And, it's really hard to put together. Atleast for me! There are several ways that the pieces fit together, but so far, this is the only way I could get them all to fit!

finding my fire

2011-09-05T15:41:00.007-06:00

"Everyone needs to find the one thing that brings out their passion. It's what we do and share with the world that matters. I believe it's important that we leave our communities in better shape than we found them. Far too many people die with a heart that's gone flat with indifference, and it surely must be a terrible way to go. Life will offer us amazing opportunities, but we've got to be wide-awake to recognize them. If there is one important thing in life, it is to find your true calling. That's where true happiness and purpose lies. You'll never be fufilled if you don't. You've got to find your fire."

-Tallulah

saving ceecee honeycutt, a novel

"Mrs. Odell once told me that forgiveness had a whole lot more to do with the person doing the forgiving than it did with the person in need of forgiveness. She said that holding on to hurt and anger made about as much sense as hitting your head with a hammer and expecting the other person to get a headache."

-Cecilia Rose

saving ceecee honeycutt, a novel

I love a phrase with substance. Something to chew on for a good long while. It's the reason I changed the title of this blog.

breaking bread with my girls

2011-09-03T18:49:00.001-06:00

Raenie came into town for a short visit. Only Alayna was able to share her visit...cuz she's special. And, because she can still travel free. All of us Foutz gals deciced to meet at Tuscany and share a meal together. Lunch on the patio was fabulous. I love this weather that we have been having!

shed

2011-09-03T18:42:00.000-06:00

Here is the shed that Ryan helped my dad build. It still needs the trim and gutters, which will be done soon.

My dad was so anxious to help us get this extra space built before he left on another 18 month church mission.

He loves to build, especially when he knows it is helping his kids save atleast 1K.

Thanks to his and Ryans hard work, I now have a more spacious garage, and somewhere for patio furniture winter storage! This is why I need men in my life. ;)

novice garden

2011-09-01T11:14:00.001-06:00

Except for the apple, which is from our tree, Ryan grew these all for me. And the tomatoes and peppers keep coming. Everyday he brings more in from his little garden. He is so proud, and therefore, so am I. Earlier in the summer, I came home from work, and Ryan told me that he had a surprise for me. He took me out back and up to the garden area (which we have allowed to mostly just be weeds) and he proudly showed me his small little veggie plants that he had planted. And most were tomatoes. (he hates tomatoes... like really bad!) I was so happy because I knew he did it just for me. It's the small things that remind me that he loves me.

red canyon storm

2011-08-31T10:56:00.019-06:00

While in Southern UT, we took a drive up Red Canyon, which is outside of Bryce. As we drove up, we could see a dark storm ahead, and as we drove into the darkened skies and the rain, we noticed the fierce rushing waters in which is usually a completely dry riverbed. In a few minutes time the desert had turned into a river. The water was so muddy red, and the campers on the opposite side of the riverbed were trapped. It was a really cool storm, but amazing how scary things can turn in only a few moments.

We had to wait in a long line of cars for awhile, and then as we got further up the canyon, we realized why.

a mudslide! Half the road was filled with mud and rocks, so each lane had to take turns either going up or down. I was surprised that an HP was already there to direct traffic.

About 4 hours later, we drove back down that same canyon, and there was hardly evidence of the earlier storm.

...mother nature at her best...

last time

2011-08-30T10:40:00.001-06:00

Our annual camping trip to Cedar Mountain. Although this was the 5th roughin' it outdoor experience, we are pretty resolved that it was our final. At least in those neck of the woods. Thank the Lord you can't see the bees or sense their intense presence in the photos, but they were swarming everywhere, making what should have been a relaxing getaway a very intense buzzing commotion the whole time.

But, we made the best of it.

Here are my comforts from home that we brought with us:

my shower

our bed

my bathroom

kitchen counters

stove and grill

our refrigerators

my pantry

bathroom sink

dryer

and my reading nook.

Farewell Cedar Mountain.

At least we have photos of you.

what if

2011-08-28T16:28:00.003-06:00

My family played a game together called "what if".

Everyone gets a small piece of paper and a pencil.

Each person writes "what if" followed by a statement.

For example: "what if my teeth turn green?"

Then one person in charge gathers all the papers and puts them into a bowl.

The bowl is passed around, and each person takes one of the papers,

making sure that they don't take their own.

On the flip side, they answer the question...however they choose.

Silly or Serious.

The one in charge collects the papers again.

The bowl is passed for the final time.

All playing take a paper.

One person starts by reading the "what if" question.

The person sitting to that persons right answers with the answer on their paper.

One time while we played I wrote the question:

"What if Susan lost her voice permanently and could never talk again?"

The person to my right responded by reading their answer:

"All the choirs in heaven would sing praises"

It is a pretty funny game.

Those who don't know Suz wouldn't know what a jabber jaw she is. She can talk about anything, and for hours. So, even if the "what if " came true, she would find a way to talk. Just look at her hair! It will talk for her! ;) It will be a different color each month that my bro is in Afghanistan. Red represents the first month.

jwf 2011 reunion

2011-08-28T10:38:00.000-06:00

I have been lacking motivation/inspiration to blog lately. But, today, I have decided that I have to put these photos somewhere and unload my memory card... so what better place? ;)

I don't have that many photos from our JWF 2011 family reunion, but here are the ones I was able to take before my battery died, and the realization that I had left my charger at home came to me...

Thanks to Rocko, aka, little sis Raenie, a CD should arrive in the mail shortly with the whole weeks adventures captivated in still photo... so stay tuned, but until then, here's a few:

morning time family Olympics, which consisted of challenges as seen on "minute to win it"

Bogey trying to stay sane, and hide from the commotion

a few of the spectators at the grand competitions

Gid

Alayna Rae

Rubix (it's Ruby, but she has finally stopped yelling at me when I call her Rubix)

sissies Rocko and Carmie with Laynie Rae

my 2 favorite aunties, Vickie and Jean (dad's sisters)

cousin Joe

(... and you can see uncle Jim in the background)

.... funny side note, he is the same age as my husband, but all growing up I was nervous to hang around him and talk to him because he was my OLDER cousin who couldn't be bothered with all the annoying younger cousins at family get togethers.. getting older seems to close those gaps.

cousin Holly (Joe's wife)

Ryan showing how it's done

part of a ghost town, right above the chipmunk feeding area.. it was weird how tame they were.

Carmen feeding an already well nourished fatty :)

my whole family

2011-08-17T21:54:00.000-06:00

A photo from our recent tri-annual family reunion in Buena Vista, CO.

summertime fun

2011-07-27T21:44:00.002-06:00

basil

2011-07-08T12:31:00.000-06:00

I have been so excited about a really simple thing... Basil.

I planted some in one of my pots on the front porch, and I love checking on it and watching it grow.

My favorite, is rubbing the leaves in my fingers, and then smelling that yummy smell that lingers on my skin.

It's such a fresh smell. I love to eat it too, especially on sandwiches.

If you don't have any planted, go plant some!

flatwork

2011-07-01T13:22:00.000-06:00

Ryan's latest project:

preparing the foundation for the shed

Bennie lined up the concrete delivery for us today, and showed up bright and early to prep the area.

and, Gary came to "supervise"

Ben and his OCD, nothing but perfection!

and... we love him for it, cuz it looks awesome! Thanks Bennie!!

Soon, Dad Foutz will be over to build the structure.

He's been chomping at the bit to get it started for a couple months now.

grass

2011-07-01T13:14:00.000-06:00

I have been so pleased with how quickly the grass seed has grown and filled in. I was skeptical of seed, and pro sod, but Ryan insisted on trying the seed first. I am glad I didn't fight him. It still has a few bare spots, but for the most part it is as green as ever.

birthday boy

2011-06-28T10:01:00.002-06:00

a Happy birthday weekend to Ryan at the art's fest... listening to great local music and spectating the crowds... his 2 favorite past times. It was a good time.

happy cumpleanos, mi amor.

summer poker

2011-06-26T22:33:00.001-06:00

We FINALLY got everyone together again for our poker night. It happened to be Ryan's birthday weekend, so we had a dual purpose to congretate. Cards first and foremost, birthday boy second... (that is coming from his most loyal friends)

shawn, shane, angie

for everyone to enjoy, but not ryan. he hates cake.

bennie, sharon, brock, danny

me and greggors... my favorite crush

and AW ang... took the cake. way to go!!

Ryan took 2nd... which isn't too bad for a 46 yr old.

we're still here...

2011-06-24T09:49:00.001-06:00

at an outdoor festival a few weeks ago, called pride

with our ob friends we ran into

tara and i found the dance floor and we had fun... great dj

we finally got ryan to "smile" instead of making a goofy face

and also:

a couple weekends ago we had a backyard party

i was so very happy that carolyn and chris came!

the dentons

jace doin' what jace does best ;)

jared and melissa were in town for a visit

tara, derrik, melis, jared

michael, cory, stacy, paula, stacia

we rented a bouncy house, in which i highly recommend for every backyard party... the more adults inside, the better. tara has all the good photos of this activity, but i was pretty excited to snap this one of ryan in motion.

boko, who belongs to stacy and cory, showed up.

he was the bouncy house dominator,

and

a pro-wrestler... taking on the bailey's both at the same time.

my only comment: he has really sharp fingernails that are weapons, and i still have 2 large bruises on my leg

i L-O-V-E summertime!!

last minute memories

2011-05-30T19:46:00.001-06:00

Ryan and I decided at the last minute to meet our friends on the Indian Summer in Powell mid-week. We usually go the whole week, but for a slew of reasons, that didn't happen for us this time. We were really happy we went, especially when we found out that all we missed out on in the Wasatch Front was rain, wind, and snow. We had a fun group this time, and I am really hoping that our good friend Lo will share the wealth and send on over her photo files. I didn't snap as many this time 'round, but here's a few.

Wendy, me, Chal, Lana

We had so much fun just hanging out on the ergonomic tube

Chal and Lana's favorite past-time: CARDS, Cards, cArDs!!!

my favorite man

And... we had to take her for a spin!

Brian showing us what he's got, until...

he biffed.

wierd coincidence

2011-05-17T22:05:00.000-06:00

Have you seen this circulating? My friend shared this with me, and I thought it was pretty funny.

getting there

2011-05-16T21:17:00.000-06:00

Here is the progress on the yard. With a little sod, and a few more plants on the far right of our yard, it should wrap things up shortly. It has been one HUGE project. And, has only been accomplished by my amazing, talented, patient, and hard-working husband! He deserves all the credit!

I will post the FINAL reveal shortly!

AND, remember.... this is what it looked like BEFORE!!

tricking harmo

2011-05-13T09:33:00.001-06:00

Happy Birthday Harmony!

Our friend Lori threw a surprise birthday party for Harmony. She was shocked, and it was great fun to trick her. She, in all her years, has never had a birthday party thrown for her by friends, let alone a shocker one.

Good stuff. It even brought her to tears. Special...

all the ladies with harmo in red

and with the boys

and with her momma Sheryl (i love that woman!) who pulled the trick off without a hitch

and then, one last pic, cuz Chal got there later.

sir mad hatter

2011-05-11T21:26:00.003-06:00

My nephew Nicholas recently preformed in his acting companies rendition of 'Alice in Wonderland'

Here he is 'Sir Galahand'

And, here you can see in the far back left, he is the 'Mad Hatter'

We were all so shocked and pleasantly surprised at his dancing, acting, and charisma on stage. He had no inhibitions, and did such a great job... British accent and all.

Way to go Nicholas!

Next year: Tangled.

Who will he play?

benefit

2011-05-10T09:38:00.002-06:00

One of the nice things that Ryan brought with him into our relationship were some really great friends. Brenda being my favorite.

tulips

2011-05-09T21:22:00.002-06:00

My dad asked us girls to distract our mom for the afternoon on Friday. He wanted to surprise her and paint the master bedroom as part of his mother's day gift to her.

So, we took her to see the tulips.

I brought mama G along for the adventure.

my 2 moms

me and carmie

The weather was amazing. It was a nice afternoon.

And, she was surprised upon her return.

Mission accomplished.

progress report

2011-04-25T21:51:00.000-06:00

Our weekend:

The sandstone patio completed and all pieced together, waiting for grout.

and the walkway as well..

and, then both the walkway, and patio with the "Gator Dust" (a grouting compound)

slowly (thanks a bunch mother nature!) but surely, the yard project is coming together

friends down under

2011-04-25T21:44:00.000-06:00

After knowing her and being friends for 17 years, I finally got to meet her brother!

Ryan and I met up with our favorite aussie friend Annette, and we had a good 'ol time with she and her brother Trevor who is in the states from the land down under to visit his little sis.

Nothing like good friends, and making memories....

globe

2011-04-15T08:37:00.000-06:00

My other birthday present finally arrived yesterday!

Isn't she a beauty?

I am going to become so geographically smart!!

Thanks Ryan!

my hyrum

2011-04-15T08:34:00.001-06:00

Emma (our niece) was our photographer at Hyrum's birthday party on Sunday.

Hyrum is 12!

miss emma used the paper to be a human present

sierra, ruby, emma

best friend cousins

uncle jake and cousin gid

emma's dad "spud"

aunt hannie and cousin taylor

aunt mijken and her new pup kyrie jill

and, cousin caleb showing off his new dentures

35 years. that's me

2011-04-10T13:29:00.000-06:00

For my birthday I asked some friends to attend the Make a Wish annual gala with me. There were 12 of us total in our group, and we had a grand 'ol time. Thank you to my friends for supporting such a great cause, and for sharing my birthday with me in space.

Cheryl Fox, my friend and client for years. She is one of the main people who puts on this event each year.

We had a few moments with the Star Wars characters.

Camie, me, Tara, Chal

Kelly, Carmen, Frida, Brian

Chal and Ben

Shawn contemplating on his next donation purchase...

The characters in the theater motivating us to donate

Sen. and Astronaut Jake Garn. One of the guest speakers.

....and then we went and played...

girls with pretty faces, boys with goofy faces

We love you Bennie, and we can't wait for you to rock out on the drums for us!

the band was singing happy birthday to me and I was leading everyone in chorus

my friends were really feelin' the beat of that club song ;)

It was an excellent birthday...

scat

2011-04-08T14:43:00.002-06:00

Snow, Snow go AWAY... come again.... NEXT Christmas!

I'm through with you! I WANT TO WORK ON MY YARD!!!

ratatouille

2011-04-05T21:40:00.001-06:00

I don't know why I am even wanting to capture this moment. It is so amazingly gross, dirty, heebie jeebie, and sick. But, the reason I guess I am, is because now I can be at peace that he's gone from our yard! This is #2 of our catch for the season. The trap goes out again tomorrow, so we'll see how big the family is. I hope not many more...

Thanks to the sweet lady next door for NEVER trimming her fitzer bushes, giving them the perfect nesting grounds. Unfortunately, it's along our fence line. Oh, I'm so grossed out... later!

a little progress

2011-04-04T18:11:00.001-06:00

It doesn't look so beautiful right now, but hopefully by this weeks end it will!

Fings x'sd.

And, Tex stopped by on Friday to supervise and help Paul drive the tractor. Now that he's 4, he's the Super on any and all construction sites. He's moving right up that ladder... no glass celing for him!

water break

2011-04-03T15:30:00.000-06:00

One of the huge bonuses that attracted us to buy the Oakleaf home was this.

all new plumbing, pipes, electrical, furnace, water heater, softener, and filtration system... and it's all organized.

Well, not the case with the underground water piping that connects us to the city water. When Paul (our landscape friend) hit and broke the main water line, we had no idea what a blessing in disguise it would be to us. It wasn't his fault it broke. Blue stakes marked it, but no one realized that the pipe was buried diagonally, not in a straight line. The galvanized pipes that were used in 1960 when old Mr. Eden built our home are only good for 50 years. Well, they've been buried and used here for 51+ yrs. It wasn't something we knew needed replacing, but we sure are glad we found out the way we did, and not because of a disastrous flood situation.

Paul has been a godsend. He helped put in the new line. He trenched through the yard, helped Ryan pull out all the old, and plumb in the new. He was so meticulous about it too. Such a good guy. And, he saved us $3000 .

Here is where they had to bust through in the basement to get access to the outside line.

So, 3 new copper elbow fittings and 75 feet of new poly blue piping (that will last for eternity) later, and we have not only new pipes inside, but outside as well. Whew! Now we can really be happy with our whole system!

just the beginning

2011-03-28T22:29:00.000-06:00

And... the can of worms is opened.

Our yard overhaul has officially begun!

Anyone need a few extra bucks? Come on over, we'll put you to work!

birthday bugs

2011-03-27T21:02:00.002-06:00

My bff threw the 2 cute little bugs a birthday bash. They have birthdays 2 weeks apart. I informed her that the only reason I approved of her not doing them separately was soley for Jack's young age. Everyone needs their own special day, don't ya think? I've got your backs for next year boys! Don't you worry. Auntie Hannie will make sure your mamma complies!

Remington, AKA: Jack. (I don't think he knows his own real name yet during his short 12 month existence)

Walker... AKA: Tex, tearing apart the paper to get to the goods.

baby Jack's cakes

and... it's gone! Time for presents!

Texie and his weird cake. I have not a clue as to what that thing is. But, the Parsons cake underneath the goo on top sure was delish!

Happy birthday to my boys. I sure love you guys.