Naturally Red

Tornado

2011-06-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

Check out our latest post of about the tornado:

lewiclan.blogspot.com

My finest moments

2011-03-15T05:47:00.000-07:00

My sister Laura and I were talking on the phone the other day. Laura remembers all of my finest moments, like when I wore a plume on my hat when I was in marching band...

Or when I worked at Arctic Circle for a month...

I have another fine moment to share.

Not too long ago, I was having a morning where I was really struggling with my four hoodlums. Morning begins with my alarm going off several times and then I finally peel my exhausted body out of bed at 6:30. Aaron and I pray and then I stumble to get something appropriate on to rally the troops (Typically this is some form of workout pant and sweatshirt). I try so hard to maintain some level of patience but unfortunately that morning it was lost in about 5 minutes, as it often is. I hope to someday be the perfect mom (don't hold your breath). Well, as I head up stairs to peel the rest of the family out of their beds, I cringe to think that Damian, the youngest, will cry when I wake him up. He is 5, almost six. This crying episode happens almost everyday. After struggling with him for a few minutes and finally get him into the kitchen table to eat with his brothers, I finish off their lunches and they go about getting ready for the day.

This is where I stop and spare you all the details of the arguing and whining. I will tell you this though, my second oldest son was having some attitude issues and by the time we all got to the door and had our coats, hats and gloves on, Tomy (said son) headed out and slammed the door and Zach (3rd son) followed closely behind. Mind you, we were running very behind and I was beyond frustration. I proceed to grab the youngest and fly out the door. This was as soon as we got his big bulky winter boots on and his snow pants in his bag. We get out to the minivan (I love and hate at the same time) and everyone has gotten in but me. I grab the handle and it is locked. I panic because I am almost certain that the bus will be gone, and I will be left with 4 boys with some sad and angry looks on their faces. I am confused. How did my door get locked and all the others unlocked? I am very skeptical but don't have time to think too much about it. I speed down the road to the bus stop and the bus is not there. I know in my heart that it's gone, so I speed down the road to see if I can find the "twinkie", the name my boys gave the bus. The twinkie is not too far down the road, but I am still freaking. The bus stops and the boys get out to run to get on. One neighborhood child gets on and the bus driver closes the door before my 4 boys get on. I wanna cry. My baby (the youngest) has already cried. We are a mess! I motion for them to come to me and they come and we chase after that damn twinkie again! Finally some kids yell at the bus driver to stop and he does. My boys run to get on. At that point, I feel defeated, even though we caught the bus.

After I told this story to Laura, and she was laughing so freakin hard, she told me she pictured me the whole time in a blue housecoat. One that is similar to the housecoat my mom once wore when we were kids. I laughed after she told me that.

Have you ever laughed and cried at the same time? It is a strange mix of emotions.

My hope is to share some of my life's crazy stories so that Laura, you, and I can have a good laugh. Laughter is the best medicine and I need all the medicine I can get!

A picture doesn't always say a thousand words

2011-03-03T05:42:00.000-08:00

I was just looking through some pictures that have been taken in the last 6 months of our family. I am very grateful we are able to have pictures. I do love those tangible memories. Most of the pictures that we take in our families, we expect everyone to stop and smile. Well, I was just thinking about how life doesn't always produce smiles and we don't often take pictures of those times when we are feeling sad, frustrated, or discouraged. These are all very real feelings and yet we don't want to record them for our posterity. Why? I sometimes think that we often stop and smile at people and things just like we do a camera and it may not be a true indication of how we feel. Part of me thinks that it is good. You have heard of the saying, "fake it til you make it?" I think we can fake the smile until it is real. But I also feel like life sucks the positive energy out of you sometimes and it's hard to wake up each day and fake the smile. And why don't we want others to see us that way? I think sometimes it's a fear we have of others seeing that we struggle. Or having them see our weakness and insecurities. I also think that it is easier for us to be unhappy rather than trying to be happy. I have a son named Damian and he used to always give me a fake smile when I took his picture. He is much better at giving a real smile now, but if you take a look at his fake smile, you can see how painful it looks and how much effort is put into giving a fake smile. This is the same person who says, "it's hard to be good, Momma." I am telling you, sometimes it is hard to smile for real, but smiling is good. My point in all of this is, I am going to allow myself to feel the whole range of feelings, but I am also going to try to fake the smile til I make it more so that eventually my smile becomes real and it rubs off on others because I also believe that smiling is contagious and if I can try to make people a little happier, I will, even if sometimes it is hard work.

Will

2011-02-04T17:54:00.001-08:00

Meet Will. He is my adorable nephew. He makes me smile and laugh and even though I haven't met him in person, I miss him. I had to steal these pictures.

Will has another Aunt named Mickey. I don't know how I can compete with this. I am not on tv. However, I am hoping that he can't tell the difference between the tv and skype and that he thinks that his aunt Kimmy is a star too. Love you, baby!

Happy 2011!

2011-01-20T06:10:00.000-08:00

This is me and my nebulizor at the doctor's office on New Year's Day. I was diagnosed with pneumonia after having a chest x-ray. Those of you who know my mom, she always warned me about getting pneumonia. When I got a cold, she always told me to take deep breaths and she would have me put menthalatum on my chest with a warm towel wrapped around my neck. In fact, she diagnosed me with pnuemonia before the doctor did. Dr. Mom always knows best. Take deep breaths and hold it, people. Then blow it out your mouth. Pneumonia is not fun.

Friday night at the Lewis houshold

2010-11-05T19:10:00.000-07:00

Tonight we sat in our "tree room". I affectionately named it that because you can see all of the beautiful trees outside because of the windows that surround the room. I love them.

Tonight I love that the television hasn't been on and that Zachary played with my hair and that he pinky swore that he would play with it more tomorrow if I will scratch his back.

I am listening to Pandora. Oh how I have missed my music.

I love that I can read my scriptures on my new droid. I don't love, however, that today I dropped some frozen sausage on my foot and I now it's swollen and I have a bruise. That is what I get for buying hot sausage for Aaron because I know that he loves it. One last thing... I listened to some Christmas music and Aaron gave me the crook eye. I think I will tell him that he owes me and I can listen to my Christmas music early because I bought him his sausage that attacked me.

What is with Zumba?

2010-10-07T06:18:00.000-07:00

Does anyone understand what this Zumba craze is all about?

Colorful Journey

2010-09-30T17:36:00.000-07:00

As I walked to the bus stop the other day, I couldn't help but notice my surroundings. The trees here in New England used to make me feel confined. Now they give me peace and I feel blessed to be where I am. It's taken me quite a while to discover that again in my life. It seems like life takes you on one big long journey, but there are lots of little journeys along the way. And at the beginning of each new journey, it feels difficult, exciting, overwhelming and sometimes unbearable. And at the end of each little journey I feel there is a moment that I can breath deep and take it all in and see that God loves me and is blessing me with every little detail. In that moment, I feel secure. In that moment I feel confident. In the next moment, however, is when life throws me another curve ball and I am left speechless because I don't know if I can do it and then I am back where I started where it's difficult, exciting, overwhelming and sometimes unbearable. I think this is our test and this is what we face in mortality. The secret to success I have discovered and will continue to discover I am sure, is FAITH. It seems so simple and yet so complicated, but I love it because I can see all the things that my Heavenly Father wants me to learn and become.

"Fullness"

2010-05-24T19:30:00.000-07:00

Thanks Elizabeth for making my day and week sparkle!

Last days with Damian

2010-05-02T18:39:00.000-07:00

A lot has happened the last several months. We went from the beginning of the school year to the end in no time. My days have been so full and I have had little time to blog. Tonight I realized that my days alone with my little sweet Damian are numbered. He will be going to school this fall and I think I will be beside myself. We have been two peas in a pod and it hurts to think of how much I will miss him. He is undoubtedly my baby. I thought I would dedicate this post to him and I.

This is Damian the builder.

Damian the student

Playful Damian

Damian in disguise

After bath time cuddled up in his soft towel

Sporty Damian

Entertainer Damian

Focused Damian

Damian in trouble

Winter wonderland Damian

We like to be silly together and sing songs like "I'm bringing home my baby bumble bee" and "My name is Stegosaurus"

Sleepy Damian (Ooooh. So precious). Even though he is 5 now, he likes me to sing Rock a bye baby

Cuddly Damian

I miss him already.

I wanna be like Mike

2009-09-10T11:16:00.000-07:00

Guess who is being inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame tomorrow? Michael Jordan. Guess who works in the same building where the NBA Hall of Fame is? Aaron. I wanna sneak in and take Damian to see one of my all time favorite basketball players.

Tart mango madness

2009-09-10T11:07:00.000-07:00

My Mickey told me about this heavenly stuff and now I'm addicted and so is Aaron. I would like a lifetime supply please.

Smooth talker

2009-09-04T11:30:00.000-07:00

Me: It's a beautiful day Damian.

Damian: It isn't a beautiful day for me.

Me: How come?

Damian: Because there are no beautiful flowers to pick for you Mama.

I love this kid and how did he get to be such a smooth talker. Must have learned it from his dad.

2009-08-25T04:48:00.000-07:00

Here is my story of the day I moved to Massachusetts and everything after.

About a month ago, we had a moving truck arrive at our home in Pleasant Grove. If I knew what would happen, I might have stayed in Utah:)
-On the way to Springfield, we realized that Wells Fargo and Wachovia had not fully merged and our checkbook got packed in a box somewhere. After a few phone calls and a trip to Walmart for some money orders, we worked it out so that we'd have money to give the landlord, but we still didn't really have a bank out east.
-We stayed in hotels 4 nights more than we had planned for.
-When we got to our supposed home in East Longmeadow, it smelled of curry and incense, but that was the least of our worries. It was filthy and disgusting and not at all what we expected (let's just say that I was depressed for a few days.) Not knowing what to do, we went to a hotel instead of staying there. At that point we thought we were locked into a contract for 1 yr. (you understand why I was so depressed).
-In talking to the owner of the home, we were able to get out of the contract and he "generously" let us stay in the home until we found another place. I felt sick to my stomach still thinking we might have to stay there and all of our stuff wasn't supposed to be here until the 8th. We got into town the night of the 31st. On the 3rd Aaron started his job and I was freaked out that I had four boys in a place I didn't know. It was a rough week. I don't think I could begin to explain what that week was like for me. We spent a lot of time at parks. Two nights that week, Aaron's boss invited us to stay in his apartment in his basement. We increasingly got more and more worried that our movers would arrive before we found another place and that they would deliver our stuff to what we affectionately called the stinky house. It was crunch time. Saturday the 8th came and we were still without a place. That morning I was making phone calls all over the place hoping for a miracle. I called on a place in Wilbraham, a place we had heard was nice and had excellent schools. I got the lady's voicemail. The driver of our moving truck told us he would be here around 5pm. Around 1:30, I received a call back from April, the Wilbraham lady. They showed us the house. It was just what we needed. I was nervous that they would take too long to do the whole credit check thing and that they wouldn't let us move in for a while. A miracle truly happened that day. We signed a contract late that afternoon. Our movers arrived pretty much on time and here we are in a home that is very nice. On top of that, our landlord let us have a 6 month lease so that we can look to buy a home and we're not locked into a whole year. Now we are getting the boys registered and in one week school starts. Stay tuned for what happens next in my crazy life. Maybe I'll open a Dunkin Donuts/Barbershop.

Purple purses and pearls

2009-07-15T07:26:00.000-07:00

This post is in large part due to a shopping trip with my soul mates and dearest friends, my sisters. I adore them. Last night we went to dinner and laughed, and then we went shopping and laughed, and then cut some hair and laughed, and now I wanna cry because I'm leaving them. And although it was painful for Michelle to walk away from her pearl ballet flats at Nordstrom and it was painful for me to walk away from this beautiful Steve Madden purple handbag. . . it's the one of the hardest things in the world to walk away from my sisters.

The BIG move

2009-06-28T12:31:00.000-07:00

Pretty much I've been in denial about this, but now it's getting so close that I guess I figure I better post something about the fact that we're moving in a few weeks to Massachusetts. So, there ya go. Any questions?

My race for Mickey

2009-05-31T12:41:00.000-07:00

My Mickey ran to Hawaii for a fun vacation so I ran to Thanksgiving Point to take part in the race she signed up for. Aaron and the boys cheered me on at the annual Running with Angels 5k. We had a pretty good time and I did better than last year on my time.

My clothes are ugly. Does anyone wanna go shopping?

2009-04-24T08:22:00.000-07:00

Looking forward to it

2009-04-03T21:19:00.000-07:00

My Makeover

2009-03-27T09:06:00.000-07:00

My new kicks

2009-03-25T19:41:00.000-07:00

For Elizabeth

2009-03-15T18:35:00.001-07:00

iCarly

2009-03-14T19:56:00.000-07:00

My television watching is quite limited these days, but the shows I do watch now are limited to kids stuff. I was first introduced to Sponge Bob. I honestly had never seen the show. It's pretty okay I guess. The show that has become my guilty pleasure is obvious. I adore iCarly. I love what Carly and Sam wear. I love their hair and their personalities. Having 4 boys now, you wouldn't think that they would like watching, but I believe they enjoy it too. The biggest secret is that Aaron likes it. He won't admit it to you when you ask him, but he does.

Broncadette Alumni's

2009-03-04T08:42:00.000-08:00

Sharing caring

2009-03-04T08:13:00.000-08:00

The Lyman's, my mom's sister and her family used to sing a song with words that went like this:

Sharing caring everybody, sharing caring, cause that's the thing to do.
If I had an itchy bum and you didn't have one,
I'd take some poison oak and give your bum a poke.

Well, recently our family was able to share and care for one another because we shared strep. I can't tell you how horrible it was. Luckily, we are well now, thanks to our friend at the urgent care in American Fork and Amoxicillin.

Don't worry, we are no longer contagious so we won't be sharing with any of you.

A Broncadette again

2009-02-26T07:59:00.000-08:00

I don't know how I've found myself in this position to where I, Kimberly Lewis, after 12 years I am going back to my high school dance team to perform an alumni routine. I am 30. The dance seems as hard as the dances we used to perform, but this time I am much older and I am trying to get my groove back. Wish me luck...wait, pray for me that I don't fall on my face!

Get Well Soon

2009-02-17T09:31:00.000-08:00

Not wanting to risk being like every other man giving his woman red roses for Valentines day, Aaron didn't get me them. Instead he decided he would get me some beautiful "Get well soon" orange roses the day before Valentines day. Aren't they beautiful? I don't feel beautiful when I'm sick by the way. We as a family like to share, so most of us have been sick. I hate it.

I'm not dead...I'm just a wife and mother of 4

2009-02-11T19:21:00.000-08:00

So, I'm sure that many of you have wondered what happened to me the last 3 1/2 months. I'm sure that many of you know people who disappear after they get married. Well, I can honestly say that I have a good excuse. I feel like being single had it's adventures and also it's hardships. It seemed that I was busy but I felt quite confident with my chosen career, my spiritual growth and progression. I liked what I had become. And now that I am 3 1/2 months into marriage and family I realize how full and joyous my life can be. I also have learned that I have a lot of "becoming" to do. Don't get too comfortable with where you are in life because that is when you should be prepared for the next curve ball.

10 things that have changed since November 1, 2008

1. I have been driving a minivan with a car top carrier

2. I have been introduced to the world of scouting (very interesting). We are on the Cub Scout Committee as well.

3. With four boys, the words poop and fart come up in conversation much more than I would like.

4. I have worked on many new projects. I assisted in a polar bear habitat, a handcart, and right now I am working on a book share biography of Benjamin Franklin. Did I forget to mention that I love sounding out words like CAT and DIG with Zach?

5. I usually don't get up later than 6 am.

6. I have a care bear band aid on my thumb.

7. I now take my gummy bear vitamins every day.

8. I have a new found dislike for Lego's, although my boys do build the coolest things I've ever seen with them.

9. I have a husband who is so patient and kind to me and picks up the slack when I fall short.

10. And the last thing that has changed since November 1st is I don't have fake nails and I cut my hair. Talk about transformation (Now I'm growing out my hair and my nails. Go figure.)

Mrs. Lewis

2008-10-30T16:53:00.000-07:00

I leave Utah for Idaho in the morning at 7am with this man. When I get back I'll be Mrs. Lewis and I'll be the mother of 4 very handsome boys. What can I say? Life will not be boring. Hopefully Aaron is tough enough to handle four boys and a drama queen.

P.S. The faux hawk is gone and I think he said he would part his hair for the big day ;)

My Mickey

2008-10-30T13:52:00.000-07:00

I'm getting married on Saturday and right now I really should be packing but instead I can't stop the tears from falling. I'm very excited but I can't help but think about my roommate of 8 years and one of my dearest and sweetest friends and how much I will miss her. Michelle and I have endless memories of trips to Seattle, caramel apple cider runs, shopping excursions to Ross and the mall, hiding from a certain crazies and arch nemesis. We've had crushes and boys hearts we've broken as well as our own. We've laughed and cried (well, mostly I've cried). She has taken care of me so many times I can't even count. We will go down in history for many as the "Virtue sisters". My wedding would not be taking place if it wasn't for her. I just hope I can hold it together for the big day. Love you Mickey.

Surprises from Aaron

2008-10-11T14:59:00.000-07:00

I love when Aaron Surprises me with:

- Sugar free treats: ice cream, fresca, and my favorite-bananas

-Flowers. They are never the same flower and they always come when I least expect it.

-His success. He never ceases to amaze me with accomplishing his goals that he sets for himself. It makes me want to be better.

I am a Hare!!!!

2008-10-11T14:53:00.000-07:00

My boys Zach and Damian love to play with my hair and I love them to play with my hair. The other day Damian grabbed one chunk of hair on one side of my head and lifted it up and another chunk of hair on the other side and lifted it straight up and said, "Mommy you're a bunny!" It was so funny. We all had a pretty good laugh.

Just One Leg

2008-10-11T14:42:00.001-07:00

I was at the gym this morning doin my thing on the treadmill and someone caught my eye on the elliptical machine It was Michelle. She's a well oiled machine! Then someone else stood out two machines down from her. She was moving so fast and she only had one leg! So I found this video and was amazed by it as well. I love to see people defy all the odds. It makes me realize the potential there is in each of us to accomplish the unthinkable.
One Leg - More bloopers are a click away

We're getting married!

2008-09-08T08:07:00.000-07:00

He loves me

2008-08-28T17:38:00.000-07:00

Dallas

2008-08-28T17:30:00.000-07:00

Did anyone ever watch Dallas? Well, baby Christopher on the show is now Eric, my customer at the barbershop. I cut his wife Breanne's hair as well. If any of you want his autograph, let me know.

Las Vegas here we come

2008-08-11T10:53:00.000-07:00

Actually Aaron and I almost got to Las Vegas yesterday. We got stuck in Glendale. Glendale is pretty much hell.

How did I miss that?

2008-08-11T10:46:00.001-07:00

Did anyone else not see the Olympic opening ceremonies? I heard I really missed out.

Colloidal Silver

2008-08-06T06:19:00.000-07:00

FYI: Colloidal Silver doesn't, in my opinion, boost your immune system. Don't be scammed. Woke up this morning and despite my best efforts to guzzle the stuff, I'm still sick. And as I've read up on it, it may turn your skin blue if you use it for too long...That is all I need...blue skin

2008-07-28T10:19:00.000-07:00

Michelle and I ran up in the canyon this morning :) 6.8 miles.

The Dark Knight

2008-07-27T16:29:00.000-07:00

Heard it's good. What have you heard?

Me and the boys

2008-07-24T08:49:00.000-07:00

Only Virtue in Provo

2008-07-24T08:26:00.000-07:00

What a good looking bunch! Wish I was with them today

I have been keeping him a secret

2008-07-17T20:27:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to introduce some of you to Aaron. I have been dating him for almost 5 months. Isn't he handsome?

Running with Angels

2008-05-18T15:21:00.000-07:00

After much careful consideration and a visit with my doctor (wait, do I have a doctor?), I decided that it was time to run a 5k. Okay,okay, Michelle thought it would be fun to have the Virtue sisters run in the 4th annual Running with Angels 5k together and I'm glad she kept pressuring us to register. Seriously, it was so fun!! I definitely want to do it again. Maybe a longer race next time. I love my sisters so much. That's not to say that my brother isn't wicked, rockin awesome...because he is and I adore him, but sisters do girl stuff together and my sisters tell me when to rub in my make-up and they tell me when clothes look bad or good.

Michelle has been a running diva and it was so very awesome to run next to her. I've watched her accomplish some pretty great things and to run next to her was truly an awesome experience.

Laura is equally awesome. When she sets out to accomplish a "task", she is bound and determined to do it and I admire her strength. Great time Laura!

Thanks for the good time Laura and Mickey!!

Make out park

2008-05-14T08:37:00.000-07:00

Remember my tulips and my new favorite park that I run in because it is clean and beautiful and has all the things that a park should have like: swings, a playground, a fountain, plenty of picnic benches, a duck pond, and of course beautiful flower? I don't even mind a dog or two as long as their owner cleans up after them to keep our park clean. Well, recently I've noticed some new editions to the park...couples that make out, so, I have titled my park now, make out park. Who wouldn't want to make out there? It's beautiful.

My Fear has come true

2008-05-12T10:06:00.000-07:00

I have been called to be a Sunday School teacher.

Tiptoeing through purple tulips

2008-05-12T10:00:00.000-07:00

I ran in my favorite park this morning and saw this really cute girl with red hair taking a picture of my beautiful purple tulips. Mind you, I say they are mine because I have adopted them and they are my new favorite flower. The girl must have been my kindred spirit.

Third time's a charm

2008-04-28T15:09:00.000-07:00

My car finally passed safety and emissions today. My car is feeling better and so am I.

I'd like to make a dedication

2008-04-14T10:32:00.000-07:00

This post is dedicated to my friend Elizabeth. She always produces laughter, sunshine, great conversation, and a damn good time! Love you kiddo!!!

P.S. Thanks for the beautiful "enchanting song"!

It's her big day everyone!!!

2008-03-10T13:07:00.001-07:00

I know that I haven't blogged for awhile, but this one was important. She is the one I've been with for the past 8 yrs. I know her and she knows me. She is a fantastically talented, smart, beautiful, sparkly times a million person. I have always wanted to be all the things she is that I lack. She makes me laugh and I adore and love her. She will never know how much I respect her opinion and I get excited to be with her. She is my Mickey--my friend and sister. Love you Mickey! Happy Birthday!!

Co Co won't get potassium poisoning after all

2008-02-27T16:46:00.000-08:00

I just caught a little blurp on the afternoon version of the Today show earlier and it was talking about resistant starches. I have attached the link below. For those of you who think that I am a crazy banana eating fool. There might just be something to eating my slightly green friends.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23189188/page/2/

Here's another interesting thing on the benefits of bananas

http://www.lifescript.com/channels/food_nutrition/food_for_thought/14_banana_health_benefits_you_might_not_know_about.asp?trans=1&du=1&gclid=CJv2pvrY5ZECFQkegwodpAaoeA&ef_id=1350:3:c_bc267e5d866cbfdbf9c2f4b3eaddf72f_677021945:j07faUNIYX0AABaXR8AAAAAK:20080228010830

Making the news again

2008-02-25T12:35:00.000-08:00

There is no question that water is a huge concern across the state of Idaho. The city of Blackfoot is taking the time now to prepare for the future when it come to having enough H20.
The city of Blackfoot recently contracted with an engineering firm to evaluate the cities current water situation.
The study suggest the city should look into a couple different options to ensure they continue to avoid sanctions from the idaho department of water resources.
Conservation, additional wells and a new storage water tank were the main suggestions. The City Council is looking into the new storage tank because of all the benefits it offers. Including emergency back-up, increases in water pressure and additional fire suppression.
Mayor Mike Virtue, Blackfoot: "This is really an advance look at where we are so we can prepare for the future. We're not in trouble. We're only saying, 'okay, we're looking perspectivly at what's going to happen with respect to growth and with respect to water."
If the city opts for a new water storage tank, it would cost about 4 million dollars.
A bond would more then likely be held to fund the new tank and would have to be approved by the voters in Blackfoot.

*The picture shown above is me at the mayor's desk helping him figure out the water situation.

A late happy anniversary wish

2008-02-25T10:52:00.000-08:00

Ryan's Birthday wishes

2008-02-25T10:43:00.000-08:00

Even though all of Ryan's birthday wishes didn't come true last week, he sure looks happy doesn't he? Sorry about the llama Ryan. He was a good llama too. Hope that you had a good birthday! Love, Kimmy

The Felshaw's

2008-02-25T10:24:00.000-08:00

Here are a few photos that I've been meaning to post. After what seemed like a wild goose chase, the Friday before President's Day weekend, I was so lucky to see my good friend and old neighbor Mere, John Thomas (I just know I'm his favorite now), and also the father and husband Matt. What an adventure! When I say wild goose chase, I mean that we tried to go to two restaurants before we finally settled at Bajio. Let's just say that Provo is crazy on a Friday night. Everyone thinks that eating is a good idea. Go figure. Anyway, it was all worth it to see the Felshaw's of Winnemucka way.

Reunion of Barbers...or stylists I guess

2008-02-20T16:47:00.000-08:00

It's a funny little thing that I do sometimes. I tell you about my exercise routine, and then I tell you about my eating out experiences. Doesn't seem right does it?

Well, my friend Lisa has been in town for a few days and we decided that we would have a little reunion of friends from the barbershop. The group is an elite group that you have to audition for if you want in. The only one's that have made the cut so far, are Lisa, Laura, and I. We decided to dine on lovely lettuce wraps and some other random items.

Now, the food wasn't necessarily the best part. Of course the company was awsome, but this post is dedicated to Clarke, our waiter. He was so cute. And I don't melt over many boys these days. Anways, we are glad you came for a visit Lisa and we love you! Come back soon or we'll come to you, my love :)

Winter run

2008-02-20T16:35:00.000-08:00

This morning I went for a winter run. Don't ask me what possessed me to do so, but I have to admit, it was lovely. More than being worried about the cold, I was concerned that I wouldn't run as well as I have been running on the treadmill. Well, as I have been watching the biggest loser, Jillian and Bob have been giving some good tips. I used to wake up and immediately start me exercise routine, but before I went this morning I ate a banana. Now, I am not saying that you should always eat a banana before running, but a little bit of fuel allows for you to run longer...obviously. I think it makes for a better run for me if I eat something small that won't make me sick. I hear that a piece of whole wheat toast is good. Anyway, happy winter workouts everyone! I'm sure that my sisters who are workout divas have great advice, especially the professional sister.

P.S. I saw the crossing guard this morning helping the kids cross the street and we chatted a bit. What a sweet man!!

2008-02-11T16:41:00.000-08:00

What I did on my day off today:

*Read from the good word.

*talked to Mary Lu. She is so spiritual, even if she was murmering a bit about the length of the worldwide training meeting. (Love you Mom)

*I took down the Christmas decor outside our front door

*As I was taking down the garland, some of the twinkle lights got stuck on our neighbor downstairs wind chimes and I fished them up. I had to knock on Ed's door to return the wind chimes. He came to the door with no shirt on (Ed's of very skinny man). It was not pretty.

*I took our Christmas garland and wreath out to the garbage

*On the way to the garbage, I slipped on the only patch of ice in our parking lot and fell on my butt.

*I went to the gym and ran 4.67 miles and did some weights. My muscles are growing.

*I went to the Beauty Supply to pick up a few things.

*I showered so that I could meet my friend Jared for lunch. We ate at the Happy Sumo. I was very happy. There went my days calories.

*Stopped to pay my car payment. My car is two payments from being payed off.

*Stopped at our storage unit to drop off the previously mentioned Christmas decor and to pick up suitcases for our weekend getaway to Blackfoot for Ry's birthday. (Just so you all know, he wants a squirrel, a kitten, and a llama). Upon leaving our storage unit, I had a random Margaret Frampton siting (that's her maiden name. I can't remember her married name). We talked and she had a flat tire today.

*Did some light cleaning

*Planning to go to FHE

*I'm ticked at our keyboard right now and also the spell check isn't working!!!

No pain, no gain

2008-02-06T19:51:00.001-08:00

The last 3 or 4 weeks, Michelle and I have been addicted to the show, Biggest Loser. And I have to admit that this show has been quite inspiring. If you think that I'm joking, I'm not. These people on this show have mountains to climb as far as the work that they have to do to lose the weight they have put on. As I watch every week, I am amazed at the transformation that takes place. And not only physically, but emotionally as well.

If I've learned anything in the past year, it's that life has it's challenges and we each have our own mountains to climb. It's hard work. But, I've also learned that hard work, struggle, and pain, allows for us to become something better than we ever thought possible.

If you are in need of a pick me up watch biggest loser, or even better, hit the gym, or do something that will require some work. You'll be grateful for the person that you become.

My angels

2008-01-30T11:40:00.000-08:00

Do you believe that there are angels among us? I do.

I love my routine

2008-01-28T11:51:00.000-08:00

I've decided to share with you a few of the things that I do almost every day that I enjoy, even though I do them day in and day out:

1. I get ready for the day. Now, it might sound silly, but I enjoy putting on make-up. I like to be a girl and feel pretty. I didn't always appreciate my unique attributes like my red hair, my crooked nose, and white skin, but they are mine and I'm the only one who looks like me and I can find joy in that.

2. Every day that I go to work, I meet Dan or Jim (more often Jim) to fetch the money from the cash room to fill our register. I enjoy this time with them. These men are humble, hard working barbers. They care about providing for their families. They care about their customers and I love that they care about me and they respect and appreciate my work. They care about my personal life and would protect me like one of their own daughters. I love these men.

3. I eat. I love food! Healthy food and unhealthy food. What would life be like without it? It fills you, and the best part is when you enjoy it with others, especially the one's you love.

4. Visiting with people. Through my work, I am very blessed to visit with people all day. Some are funner to visit with than others (there are some grumpy ,weird, rude people), but it is interesting to learn from others and their experiences, to see what makes them happy and what makes them sad. To watch them experience life through it's ups and downs and still remain faithful enough to keep moving forward. Some people I meet I believe come as gifts to me, just to make me better and my days better.

5. I pray to a loving Heavenly Father. He knows me the best and what I need to become the best me. Through him I know that I have purpose and reason to live and love and find joy and return to live with him.

Quote of the day

2008-01-23T16:10:00.000-08:00

I have to confess that I stole this quote from someone else's blog, but I love it!!

“Anyone can give up, it's the easiest thing in the world to do. But to hold it together when everyone else would understand if you fell apart, that's true strength.”-Anonymous

Out of Beef

2008-01-23T15:46:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine hadn't eaten anything (popcorn doesn't count) all day yesterday, so we went to the Taco Bell drive thru last night and the girl said that they didn't have any beef. What the hell is that all about? So...since they weren't gonna give us beef, I used my excellent driving skills that I acquired from Blackfoot High School's phenomenal Driver's Ed program to maneuver myself out of the drive thru. I had to take a stand, okay? Too bad when we went to another taco bell, there was beef on my seat that had spilled from my friend's taco I tasted.

The Spelling Bee

2008-01-23T15:36:00.000-08:00

This blog is dedicated to my friend Emily Park. Emily actually doesn't know me, but her brother and sister do, and I just wanted to wish her luck in her upcoming 6th grade Spelling Bee. The best that I could do in Spelling Bees is 2nd place in the 4th grade. Tara Carroll always beat everyone! Dang her! It only made it worse that she was my best friend.

Happy New Job day Ryan!!!

2008-01-21T15:51:00.000-08:00

Surprise!!!!

2008-01-21T15:40:00.000-08:00

You know when you think that you know someone and then they surprise you with something that you didn't know about them? I love life's little surprises.

This is my next birthday cake...okay?

2008-01-16T11:36:00.000-08:00

What in the ---- was she thinking?

2008-01-16T10:50:00.000-08:00

There are certain places that you almost expect to see a mullet, like the state fair in Blackfoot, or at a bar in Kentucky, or at any local Wal Mart. The latter was the case this morning, when I went to get my oil changed and pick up a few things at one of my least favorite places to shop. Seriously though, this woman was about 60 years old with gray hair and it was cut exactly like the woman above, but the woman I saw, had defined her spiky hair on top with what was some cheap, disgusting gel I'm sure.

Now, I know that most of you are aware that I am a barber and you think that I might be exaggerating because I especially pay attention to detail as far as hair styles go, but I kid you not. Go to the Wal Mart of Orem at 8am tomorrow to see what I mean. You'll want to cut the back yourself, right then and there. It should be a crime to do such things!!!

What do you think of my new shoes?

2008-01-12T21:07:00.001-08:00

What the heck?

2008-01-09T16:35:00.000-08:00

Day of Denial

2008-01-09T15:57:00.000-08:00

As mentioned in previous blog posts, I just returned from my incredibly relaxing and beautiful vacation to Hawaii. Today is one of my days off of work however. I'm no longer working with the United Way and Angel Tree and seemed to have been blessed with an extra day to recoup and deny the fact that it is a New Year and that there was probably at least 6 inches of snow on my car this morning. I half expected to face the daunting tasks that indicate reality today, but instead ate a oat and honey bran muffin and grapefruit with a dear friend of mine. We caught up with each other and visited a bit with our waiter Sal, who happened to be from Hawaii. After our lovely late breakfast we went to Barnes and Noble and read up on one of the newest astrology books (you know how much I love to read my horoscope). We spent some time at the grocery store and ran into another old friend that I chatted with for a bit and then back home where I ran into a guy from good old Blackfoot in our parking lot. After talking with him and his wife for a while, I couldn't resist visiting with our charming neighbor Ed. And now, I MUST do some laundry, go to the gym and start thinking about what I need to change for the New Year. I'd like to first change winter into spring and summer. Sound good to anyone else?

Diamond Head

2008-01-09T13:21:00.001-08:00

I'm not a hiker. I loved to hike Diamond Head!! So much fun! Here are the pics.

Back from my Hawaiian Paradise

2008-01-08T10:23:00.000-08:00

All I have to say is I have a slight case of depression...enough said.

Nightmares

2007-12-29T21:07:00.000-08:00

Have any of you ever had a reoccurring nightmare? Well, I haven't. I'm certainly glad about that, but have you ever felt like you keep reliving certain painful memories? This, I can relate to, and I don't know how to get over it, because part of it is out of my control. I guess that this is one of those things that you don't want to go into specifics with everyone you know but it lies just beneath the surface. You know when people ask "how are you?" and you are suppose to say "good, how are you?" People lie about being fine. And maybe we all say that we are fine or good to appease others, but sometimes we say it for our own benefit as well, with hope in our hearts that someday we will be fine and good, or maybe even great. With hope also that one day it will be a reoccurring dream instead of a reoccurring nightmare.

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow

2007-12-25T08:29:00.000-08:00

Snowflakes are wonders of natural chaotic symmetry, their presence the result of a harmonious symphony between the various elementary principles. Delicate in form, exquisite to the eye, mesmerizing to the mind.

Everything testifies of him. He was born and he lives.

Strike a pose

2007-12-12T18:42:00.000-08:00

I had a photo shoot in my room last night. Don't tell me you've never done that!

No time

2007-12-11T14:50:00.000-08:00

I am not so dumb to think that I am the only one who is busy...especially this time of year. For those of you who are wondering where I have been, I guess you'll just have to wonder. And, yes I have been busy. I don't mind being a bit mysterious every now and again. I will tell you one thing though, people tend to be very generous this time of year. And I don't mind sorting through their generosity and also making sure their generosity gets delivered to people who are in need of others generosity. And before you go and think that I'm all sorts of wonderful, well, I'm not, I get paid to do all of this. I am truly a blessed person.

Happy Birthday Mere!!!

2007-11-13T18:11:00.000-08:00

This is my friend Mere when we tried to transform her into a redhead. Redhead or not, isn't she beautiful? Mere is the mother of the little baby below. Remember John Thomas? Adorable!! Well, now you can see where he gets his good looks. Mere and I have a history. We are kindred spirits and I do believe that we will be friends forever. Ya know when you haven't seen an old friend for a while and it's a bit awkward because you don't know what to say? Mere and I will never be at a loss for words...believe me. We always are able to pick up where we left off. She has a way of always making me laugh. I am grateful for her today on her big day and would like to say Happy Birthday to one of my dearest friends!!

Welcome John Thomas

2007-11-06T20:07:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning I received a phone call from my friend Mere. Mere and I go way back. Thank goodness for Spencer Burnside because I think that he is the reason we are so tight. Since our crush on Spencer, we have come a long way. Needless to say Mere has come a longer way than I have. She married this crazy boy from Seattle and she just had her first baby!! Isn't he adorable. I have a feeling that this isn't the last picture you'll see of Mr. John Thomas Felshaw. Also this isn't the last you will hear about my friend Mere. She will be having a birthday soon. Too bad John Thomas couldn't wait a little longer to be born to share a birthday with his amazing mother! Although, I don't know if Mere could've waited that long.

Whole or broken

2007-10-28T11:33:00.000-07:00

Do you ever feel that you might spontaneously crumble into a million pieces? I do. I've come to the conclusion that it's the fear of the unknown. What life has yet to dish out is a mystery...and it scares me sometimes. Other times however, I hear "Be still and know that I am God." I know that whatever it is that is coming I will still hear those words and know that I will remain faithful to Him who I have come to know and trust for my support and strength. And instead of crumbling into a million pieces, I will be whole, but only by and through Him. It's going to take some effort on my part though.

Down an octave

2007-10-24T16:35:00.000-07:00

Do you ever wish that your raspy voice from a cold was the way you always sounded? Not the nasal voice, but the lower sort of cracking voice. I think I sound sexier...I don't know, maybe not.

Marie's down for the count

2007-10-24T16:24:00.000-07:00

Did anyone see Marie Osmond faint on Dancing with the Stars this week? I have my suspicions about those Osmonds, especially Marie.

Another year older and hopefully wiser too

2007-10-22T10:36:00.000-07:00

I've decided that it's better to have a weekend to celebrate my birthday instead of just a day. There is so much more that you can fit into a weekend. Also, as I've said before, I always feel so many emotions and this weekend wasn't any different.

First of all, Friday evening I got off work and I was headed home. My original plan for the evening was to attend the temple. As I pulled into our parking lot at the Grandview Village, my phone rang. Of course it was my good pal and sister Mickey. She was asking what I had planned for the evening. I told her that I was thinking about going to the temple, to which she said that Laura and Eric wanted us to go to dinner with them. And since I am such a family oriented type of person, I agreed to the adventure to Riverton, Utah. To my surprise, when we arrived at their home, my parents vehicle was in the driveway. Yep, they all had me fooled (pretty easy to fool someone like me). We piled into my parents van and we were off to Trios, a very enjoyable and delicious Italian restaurant.

The next day was game day. We knew that their would be snow but we were prepared for the worst and we came out very successful. The cougars won and we managed to get out of the stadium just as the snow was starting to get bad.

Yesterday, my big day, was only good because I had my family there to pull me out of the indifference I felt about my birthday. I have to say that they know how to handle me. It always ends in laughter and sunshine when they are around. Well...maybe not literal sunshine, but the kind of sunshine you feel in your soul. The kind that makes you grateful to be alive for another year. By the end of the weekend some of us were tired, but it's only because the Virtues party hard when we get together. Thank you for another spectacular birthday! Next year is the big 30. We'll see if I make it.

It's the 19th...you know what that means...

2007-10-19T17:09:00.000-07:00

I'm mad at my dad because he didn't call and wish me a Happy Birthday today!

Paging Dr. Izzie Stephens

2007-10-13T16:58:00.000-07:00

Grey's is back on!! I feel emotionally connected to this show for many reasons.

1. I used to watch it with an old flame of mine.

2. I love the music.

3. Grey's is often Mickey and Kimmy time.

4. I connect with Izzie because she "feels" almost as much as I do. We're emotionally unstable according to some.

5. There is always a love or I hate to say it..."lust" connection.

Help!!!!!

2007-10-13T16:51:00.000-07:00

I got locked out 2 nights ago and had to borrow Stanley's ladder to climb into Michelle's room. . . I'm a mess!!

The Big Apple

2007-10-07T17:10:00.000-07:00

Laura and Eric made it to New York City today to see Eric's brother Dave, his wife Alicia and their adorable children, Sarah and Zachery. What can I say? I'm extremely jealous of them. But will they see Mike Rowe in the airport? Probably not.

I can always count on...

2007-10-07T16:20:00.000-07:00

What I have come to know as a now 28 almost 29 year old is that you can always count on certain things. And so today I wanted to tell you just a few of the things that I have come to count on that I am truly grateful for.

1. I am grateful that conference comes around twice a year. I can always count on being fed spiritually according to my personal needs and desires. God knows exactly what I need.

2. Another thing that I have come to expect is that despite my wish that summer will forever remain, fall always rolls around and even though I complain, deep down I appreciate the colors, the harvest, and the crispness in the air.

3. Along with fall, inevitably I increase in age by yet another year. And the joke will always be that my birthday is on the 19th (thanks to my favorite mayor and yours) instead of the 21st (my real birthday). I'm grateful for each year that passes because I feel wiser and just a bit better than the previous year because of experiences that change me.

4. Another thing I can count on is my mom calling me to see how I'm doing and to ask "What did you do this weekend?" I'm grateful for my parents constant concern for me and their on going support of me and the things I do.

5. I can always count on Mickey creating something beautiful, edible, or fragrant in our home. I'm grateful for her constant care of making our house a home. Our home is a little piece of heaven.

6. The sun comes up every day whether I want it to or not. And these days I want it to because you never know what lies ahead of you in your days, weeks, months or years...so make the best of it and love, hug, and kiss a little bit more than yesterday, last week, last month, or last year.

What's your sign?

2007-10-03T11:46:00.000-07:00

Does anyone else check their horoscope on an almost regular basis?

The National Botanical Gardens

2007-10-03T08:36:00.000-07:00

I realized a few things on our trip about Michelle and I and my parents. I already knew how different we all are from each other, but I enjoyed seeing how my parents compliment one another in many ways, as do Michelle and I. What one person lacks, the other person makes up for. We truly need each other to be better. It's difficult sometimes to appreciate those differences in each other, but other times it's completely refreshing.

Moonlight tour of the Monuments

2007-09-27T13:56:00.000-07:00

It's not easy being green

2007-09-27T13:20:00.000-07:00

This is me and Kermie at the Smithsonian. Aren't we a fabulous pair? It was quite the reunion. I hadn't seen him since I was 6yrs. old. I also took this picture for my friend Stephen. Thanks for the song Stephen.

Jim vs. Olga at the Library Of Congress

2007-09-26T15:23:00.000-07:00

Our first sight to see on Tuesday was the Library of Congress. It was a very informative tour. The building was gorgeous and the picture does not do it justice. Jim was our tour guide and I appreciated his enthusiasm about the LOC. The man knew his stuff...which is why I got my picture taken with him. You might be wondering who this woman is. Her name is Olga (another tour guide). Her name seems to fit her because she was completely rude and pushy to my Jim. Jim was merely trying to point out that in the history of art and architecture, creators would intentionally flaw their work because they believed that nothing was perfect unless it was created by God. Olga seemed to think that her group was more important than us. Jim being the gentleman he is, simple pointed out that this was neither the time or the place for her to argue with him. It was fabulous! He shot old Olga right down. This city is almost as exciting as Provo!

Ted's Montana Grill

2007-09-26T15:12:00.000-07:00

Okay...so I lied about Mike Rowe, but we did spot him in the airport and he check me out. Later that night, we went to eat at Ted's Montana Grill, thanks to Miriam from the Marriott. She recommended it. And it was by far the best hamburger I have ever eaten. Mmmmm! When I'm in town again, I will go back.

My trip with Mike

2007-09-25T20:27:00.000-07:00

So I have felt really guilty lately and I need to come clean (or "dirty") about something. I've told many of you that I'm on a trip with my family in Washington D.C....well this picture indicates otherwise. Mike Rowe and I are seeing each other. The reason that I hesitated to tell anyone is simply to protect the innocent. Now I fear that the media will have a heyday with this...so I felt I should get it out in the open with my family and friends. One more little secret...I think he might propose.

P.S. Those of you who read my sister's blog, she was in on it too. Her post about Mike was a ploy. She is a good sister to support me in my time of need. Anyway, love you all and I'll see you soon.

"Read"y to eat?

2007-09-19T15:31:00.000-07:00

Some say that the color red represents power. I tend to agree, because when our friend Sarah came into town on Monday, each of us showed up in the color red. We definitely did not plan it, but I think we are pretty powerful and I appreciate these women and their testimonies, their faith and support over the last couple of years. I am so grateful for them and love them to pieces! Thanks Sarah for bringing us together. We love you! P.S. We ate at Red Robin ; )

Kimmy the Cookie Monster!!

2007-09-13T19:52:00.000-07:00

I went to the cookie exchange tonight. Made my peanut butter Rollo cookies. Problem is, there were a million cookies and only four people. Guess who left with more cookies than she brought. Yep...me...and I don't even eat sugar!!

2007-09-12T20:40:00.000-07:00

Bootylicious text messaged me yesterday...weird.

The Academy Is plays at In the Venue

2007-09-12T20:36:00.000-07:00

Why didn't anyone tell me that the Academy Is was playing tonight in SLC?