Who is that good looking redhead?

I don't know that this is the best picture of my dad, but it is pretty tough to get a picture of him looking natural. I don't know how to begin to say what a blessing that this man has been to me. My whole life he has supported me. And even though he would pretend to have a heart attack when he got our dance costume bill, or he would vacuum at ridiculous hours of the morning, or he would sing ridiculous songs for our friends, I adore this man. He has accomplished so much in his life. And besides the fact that he is the mayor of Blackfoot, he has bulging muscles from swimming before the crack of dawn, and he is every one's favorite paper boy...the most important thing still for me is that he is my dad. When times are tough for me, he comforts me and blesses my life more than he will ever know. Thanks Dad for all you do! I love you!! Happy Father's Day--Berly

Birthday Glamour Girl

Isn't she a vision? Yep, that's my sister Laura. It's definitely her big day! So, hap hap Happy Birthday to you Beak, Laura Leela Lula, my favorite redheaded sister!! I adore you and thank my lucky stars for you!

Sure Would like to see Sherwood in Concert

I love this band!! A customer told me about them a while back and within the last month I have gotten into their music and it is very good. Check them out!

Something Magical!!

I am not quite sure how to explain this phenomenon, but this product is a bit of a miracle. I bought it on a whim today, with the thought that I desperately needed to get some soap scum off of my shower and bathtub. I love it!! Here is why I love it. First, and this goes without saying, but Mr. Clean really is super hot! I mean look at those muscles. The earring might be a bit over the top, but who cares when he looks so damn good. And second, this product allows you to feel like you aren't going to be sore the next day from scrubbing so hard...that is what the gym is for, right? Anyway, try it I know you will love it. And you can use it on a variety of surfaces, not just your shower and bath. As Mark Loveless would say, "It'll change your life."

Storms

I have actually been thinking a lot about storms recently, so it seems fitting that today it's dark and rainy. Lately I have been reading a particular scripture frequently. I had heard it several times before, but my mom reminded me of it a couple of weeks ago. It's found in Matthew 14:22-31. A storm comes while Jesus' disciples are in a ship. Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. His disciples think that it is a spirit and they are afraid. Jesus says to them, "Be of good cheer. It is I. Be not afraid." Jesus asks Peter to come. Peter walked on the water to go to Jesus. vs. 30 But when he saw the wind boisterous , he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying Lord save me. vs. 31 And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?

Sometimes it is so windy, like it was last night. And sometimes it rains and it's dark and there is lightning and thunder and we are tossed to and fro like the ship and we are afraid. But, when the Lord asks us to trust him, we should so that we don't start to sink like Peter. Trust that He knows what's best for us. Trust that he will bless us when we are faithful to his word. The Sun will come again and so will the Son. His light provides hope, warmth, and comfort during times of storm and darkness. This storm will also cleanse and give life to the earth. The earth changes and is made beautiful, as are we after our storms.

The Fray's back to see Kimmy!!

Guess who is coming to SLC on July 31? I'm getting tickets tomorrow. Anyone wanna go? Eric, you had better not make any bad comments because I know that deep down you love them.

Dream Vacation

My friend Laura from work is going to Disneyland next week and I'll admit that I am so jealous! I absolutely love Disneyland! And I was just wondering if any of you would like to go with me this summer. Any takers?

Twilight

I have had a little bit more time to do some leisure reading and I know that many of you have read this book already, but it's definitely hard for me to put it down. So if you haven't read it, you should. Even the cover is beautiful, don't you think?

The hospital stay

Last night I went to see a friend that had been taken to the emergency room. She went in at 4pm, was in the emergency room until 1am, and then was admitted into a regular hospital room. Her roommate was there with me and I just got home about 15 minutes ago. Needless to say, it was an interesting night, one that I would not like to duplicate anytime soon. It made me appreciate more fully nurses and their constant care. As a matter of fact, remember my good friend Jared, the purse snatcher? Well, he just happened to be working last night/this morning in the ER. I respect definitely respect him more and it was pleasant and comforting to see a familiar face. I also realized the goodness of people, including my friend who is sick. Her attitude is amazing! Say a little prayer for her for me today.

The Babes of the 7th ward

This is our ward softball team. Aren't they beautiful. Yeah, I'm not in the picture. I don't play. I am a cheerleader. That's where I belong.

Mom

I had to steal this picture because it is one of my favorites of Mom.

So, I was talking to my Mom yesterday, as I do on most days, except this time it happened to be mother's day. That didn't change the fact that she listened to me and comforted me when I needed the most. I thought it fitting, however, that she was taking care of me on her day, the one day of the year that is set aside for her, she was doing the very thing that we recognize her for. She was strengthening me, offering words of encouragement, and making me laugh. What a dear friend she is to me . She takes no thought of herself and I hope and pray that I will be half the mother she is one day.

P.S. It's okay that you didn't like that lesson, Mom. Not one of my favorites either ; )

A few of my favorite things

Some of the things I love (In no particular order)

1. The Virtue family (they make me laugh, even when I'm crying).

2. Singing in my car. Usually I turn the music up really loud. I sound much better.

3. I love visiting my sisters at the Riverside. Many of them say that I should take up permanant residence there.

4. I love summer nights and the way it smells in my room when I leave the window open.

5. I love chocolate covered cinnamon bears. Always have. Always will, even though they have sugar in them.

6. I love anything that reminds me of old friends (pictures, music, smells)

7. I love any movie where the main actress is a redhead. (Bandits, The Village, Annie). All good films.

8. I love the beautiful city of Seattle. Lot's of good memories there.

9. I love sugar free cookies with oatmeal and crasins.

10. I love how I feel after I have gone on a good run.

Stay tuned and watch from more of Kimmy's favorites

Your love is better than chocolate

This Thursday and Friday was Women's conference. One crazy time at the good old BYU. As most of you know, I work at the BYU barbershop and just across the hall from us is the charming and lovely Campus Craft and Floral and upstairs is the BYU Bookstore where they sell fudge (the women go crazy for this particular commodity). Also upstairs is the cougareat where they sell delicious salad wraps that women enjoy, but even more enjoyment comes from the beautiful and scrumptious BYU mint brownie. These same women are willing to wait in line to get autographs of two good looking men in the movie The Work and the Glory 3 (pretty ridiculous if you ask me). Women's conference women will do anything to get what they want! And I mean anything. I've learned that they especially want chocolate, which seems fitting because when these seven women that I adore in the picture got together to help at the Women's Conference service kit assembly, we decided to wear brown, the color of chocolate. I just wanted to give a shout out to all women, despite their obvious weaknesses (chocolate, good looking men, and adorable umbrellas from the CC&F) they are full of charity, love, sweetness, and goodness. And yes, there are many other women that I love and adore that I wanted to be in this picture with us. You know who you are (Mom, you too). Love you all.

My little Pale groupie

I just found this picture on Brian's blog and thought that it was so cute and wanted to wish him a Hap Hap Happy Birthday on Monday. I know it's early but I couldn't resist. Even though he is bald, he is still cute as a button and we've had some good times together. Thanks Brian. I'm your NUMBER ONE FAN!! Love ya ; ) Hope you don't get too drunk on your birthday!

The Sun will come out tomorrow

I don't know why, but I feel like giving a tribute to one of my idols growing up. I simple adore little orphan Annie. I even had a doll and locket. She was one tough kid and I loved the way she belted out "The sun'll come out tomorrow. Bet your bottom dollar that tomorrow, there will be sun. Just thinkin about tomorrow clears away the cobwebs and the sorrow til there's none. When I'm stuck with a day that grey and lonely, I just stick out my chin and grin and say the sun'll come out tomorrow."

Man, I love her. Maybe it's that curly red hair. Or, maybe I loved that she was such a drama queen. Whatever it was, I need to watch that movie again.

Random thoughts at the End of April

I almost hit a bird tonight on the way back from my friend Laura's birthday party, which is funny because she hit a bird herself not too long ago. Funny, huh?

I am teaching the lesson in Relief Society on Sunday. Wonder if they are sick of hearing from me.

Went to the temple this morning with my friends Melissa and Katie. Wonderful.

Bought a new bottle of Ralph Lauren Romance today because I dropped the bottle I had in my bathroom. It shattered. Needless to say, my bathroom smells delicious. I love perfume. Romance is one of my favorites. It was 3/4 full. Very sad.

Beautiful day today. 64 degrees right now. It's 10:40.

I'm reading this book called the Peace giver. Excellent book. I'm not done with it yet, but I would lend it to anyone who is interested. Mom, I'll get you a copy.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

This was my favorite book when I was little. I loved finding caterpillars on the trees and putting them in jars. Then I got older and started to babysit the Smith children around the corner and Melissa Smith pulled a caterpillar apart, completely ripping it in two. So disgusting. Haven't really been into them since.

Big booty, big booty, big booty

Today I did the StairMaster at the gym. I think that the reason why I did it was because I saw this girl on it that had little thighs and a little bum. I was motivated to get my own bum on one. Mind you, I don't think that I have ever gotten on this piece of workout machinery before, but after my 3 miles on the treadmill, I felt confident I could do it. It's always a bit scary to try something new at the gym because I'm never quite sure if I'll know how to use it, or start it for that matter. I got on and began pushing buttons. It wasn't working. I couldn't get off because then people would know that I couldn't get the dumb thing started...so I had to swallow my pride and tap the girl with the small bum next to me on the arm to help me. She was very kind to help me, a girl with a slightly larger bum, with the machine. I think it has become a new part of my routine. Please don't look to see if my bum is getting smaller though the next you see me.

The purse snatcher

Do any of you have a friend that seems to think that he owns part of your purse? No? That's what I thought. Well, my friend Jared thinks that "my purse" is "our purse". This is a picture of him cleaning "my purse". There was a huge struggle to get possession of "my purse". The savage side of me came out because everyone knows not to mess with a woman's purse. Anyway, everyone should know. Apparently Jared was not ever taught this. His birthday is coming up. Maybe I will buy him his own purse. I wonder what color he would want.

I'll Build you a rainbow

So, I was telling my friend Melissa about this song. It was made in the 70's and put out by the church. And every time I hear it I cry. I know you all do too. Anyway, here are the words and narration to the song.

I'll build you a rainbow, way up high above. Send down a sunbeam, plumb full of love. Sprinkle down raindrops, teardrops of joy. I'll be happy as spring-time, watchin' over my boy.

(Narration)
Once there was a boy named Jami. He had some great friends, but his greatest was his mom. Not in some sissy way like that. She was just different than the other moms. While they were busy going to their fashion shows and bridge parties, she was. home with him. They'd play in the backyard together, go on bike rides, have long talks, She was the best football player on the whole block. At least that's what the other guys said. They really thought she was special. You know, they wished their moms were more like that.
Then one day Jamie was called home from school. There was a big white ambulance in the driveway. When Jamie walked into the front door, his dad was talking to the doctor, and Jamie was scared. They said he could only talk to his mom for a minute, and when he tiptoed into the bedroom and saw his mother lying on the bed, she smiled and whispered, "Hi, Big J." that's what she always called him, even though he wasn't very big. she said he had a big heart.
She said, "Jamie, I'm going away and I won't be coming back. I'm dying." Big tears came to Jamie's eyes and he said, "Mom, you just can't die," And she said, "It's OK Babe, there's no regrets. I've been with you more in eleven years than most moms are with their boys in a whole life time." He said, "I know mom, but you just can't die, you just can't" And she said, "Jamie, there's a secret. It's a special secret, and I never want you to forget it...
Families are forever, and even though you won't see me, I'll still be there watching over you and waiting for you." And he said, "But mom, if I can't see you, well then, how will I know you're there?" She thought a minute, and then she smiled and answered..."
She kissed him, closed her eyes, and she was gone. As Jamie and his dad stood in the driveway watching the ambulance drive away, his dad broke down and started to cry. They hugged each other real tight and Jamie felt his dad's teardrops on his own cheeks and cried too. Then he remembered the secret and he looked up and sure enough, there it was, right over their house, a big rainbow, just like she said. And he said, "Dad, dad, it's alright..Families are forever."

Hot Dog!!!

Here is something you just don't see every day. A few weeks ago we had ward FHE and my friend Megan brought this dog that she was watching for her friends. At this moment Michelle was lucky enough to watch the dog momentarily for Megan while she was eating maybe a "hot dog" or something. Doesn't she look so awkward with the dog?

The Virtues have never really been pet people. Heck, the only pets we had were Laura's goldfish, which died because we fed him too much. You could actually see through the fish all the food we fed him. I think that his name was Leonard. So now you can see why it's so comical to see Michelle taking care of the dog. I took another picture, but had to erase it. Let's just say that the dog was feeling a bit sick.

Virtuous Women

I realize that I'm stealing material, but I simply can't get enough of this picture! It was obviously a time that we were so happy. I hope to someday create some of that same joy and happiness for my own children that my parents created for us. Notice my tongue once again...and those bangs are awsome!

"Pinky"

There is always something, I think, that everyone is given as a child that they become attached to. One of my friends had a stuffed dog named Little Gangus. He looked disgusting. She had kept him and slept with him until her mid to late twenties. I think she finally came to terms with the fact that she had to give him up. Well, I too have had an item that I have kept since the age of three or four. I never named it until the other day when I knew I had to throw away my precious "pinky". I don't even know who gave it to me. Maybe my mom. As you can see, it had sentimental value. Michelle said she would take a picture of us though so I could remember "pinkie". Quite honestly I wasn't that attached, but seeing as how I had kept it for so long, it was hard to throw away.

Recently we replaced our carpet and I have done some spring cleaning. There are a lot of things I gave up or threw away. Most of the time it's refreshing to give things up. Sometimes, however, it is so hard and I hold onto them for months or even years. Maybe this is how I feel about other things in life. People, things, come into our life. Eventually we move on and start fresh. I'm going to try to keep moving on and starting fresh, even if I am forced into it, like when Michelle told me we were getting new carpet. It's Spring cleaning everyone!! Out with the old and in with the new!

Winter revisited

Are you Serious? Snow? 3 to 4 inches of it on my car this morning. I cried...for an hour.

Mmmmmm, finger lickin good!

Does this look appetizing to anyone? Breakfast burrito anyone?

Sugar Lips and Skipbo tips

I may have had a break down yesterday. Let's just say that I was really thirsty for some fresca and all we had was some sugary lemonade. I didn't even need a glass.

Also, we played some skipbo last night. Actually, I didn't really play, I just pretended to help Poncho win. Why do people cheat by looking at your cards? Cheaters never prosper! Maybe you should remember that Michelle.

Normal...maybe not.

I realized today that all the pictures of me on the blog are kinda weird looking, so I decided to put in a fairly normal picture of me on. It's probably more normal because Laura's in the picture. Okay, who's kidding who? We are a couple of ridiculous redheads. I love the ridiculousness though.

The early bird gets the oil change

This is the view from the waiting area of the Jiffy Lube. Don't you think that it is such a ridiculous thing when you have to wait an hour for an oil change. About a month ago I was there at J.L. with a friend. We drove all over town trying to find a place where the wait wasn't over an hour. We started at J.L. and ended up at J.L. The service there is so so, but for what you end up paying in the end, I think it's a jip. Today on my day off, I decided to get my oil changed. It was a week or two over due. Last night I decided that I would get up reasonably early to go to Wal Mart to do it. They open the Lube "express" (not a word that always describes the experience 9 times out of 10) at 7am. I was there at 7:30. It took approximately 20 minutes. For all of you who are having a difficult time waiting for your oil change, the early bird gets the worm. That's all there is to it.

The man pictured was sure intersting. He was missing his front teeth which made me wonder what his life was like. Definately entertaining to observe. He was as efficient as he could be under the circumstances, then again, he wasn't the one changing the oil which is why it took sooo long.

The "scullet"

Laura, Eric, and I spotted this character outside the Wilkinson Student Center on BYU campus. There was a whole group of these people just standing out front. It made me very curious. Obviously it was some cultural gathering. But I wondered if this gentleman in particular always wears his hair like this. All bald but a patch in the back. I have heard one of my co-workers refer to this haircut as the "scullet". Not too many of them around, that's for sure. I am not making fun of these people. It was just the perfect photo opportunity. Not something you see every day.

Show me some teeth!

Today is my friend Britney's birthday so . . . in her honor, I put in the Billie Bob teeth. I always said to myself that I would never put in a pair of those disgusting things... but, never say never. Don't we look like we're ready for a night out on the town? Happy Birthday Brit!!

Here's to our health!

The past couple of days I haven't been feeling well, in fact I became very familiar with my room and my bed. Those who know me best know that when I am reaaallly sick, I do not look well. If you want a real description besides this photo, ask Michelle. I definitely do not do any hair or make-up. This is not typical Kimmy behavior.
However, today was a new day. I am not quite at 100%, but I am so happy to be back to my regular routine. I felt so good today, I got a haircut from Derrell. Things are really looking up. Today was splendidly warm. I know that we are given these moments of sickness to appreciate our health. So, today I'm grateful for my health. By the way, my tongue is unusually long and pointy and this picture doesn't do it justice.

Wouldn't you take him home too?

I don't know why, but I seem to enjoy watching this cooking show on TLC. Those of you who know me, know that I'm a so so cook. Nothing to sneeze about. I've never been one to watch cooking shows, but I adore the Take Home Chef. Maybe it's because he is good looking. Maybe it's because every woman that he picks up from the grocery store, he treats them so good. Or, maybe I just can't wait to see who they are cooking for. It is usually a husband or a boyfriend and I like to see who these women picked to be their companion. Oh, and the food part is fun too. Check it out. You'll love his hair!!

Mickey's Big Day

Here she is. You would never guess, but the girl with the birthday hat is 30 yrs. old today. I know, I was surprised too. She looks like she is 22, don't you think? Michelle, my sister and I have been together for a long time. A whopping 28 years and 5 months. We have had some very good times together, in fact some of the best times I've ever had, she has been there. I have always wanted to do what she does. I love that she knows exactly what I need. She makes me want to be better and she makes me laugh. Michelle beautifies everything that she touches. She is my Mickey and I love her!!! Happy Birthday Mick!!!

Instruments

Yesterday was Stake Conference and Mom and Dad were on their way back home from Phoenix so they stayed in Provo Saturday to Sunday. Michelle went to Luke's ordination, so Mom and Dad went with me to Stake conference. Before the conference, however, I was invited along with some of the other leaders in our stake to a luncheon with Elder Quentin L. Cook. I was a little apprehensive to attend, mostly because our stake president asked us to think of some questions to ask. I didn't feel like I had much to contribute in that particular setting. I'm grateful for that experience looking back. I learned a lot. The past couple of weeks have been somewhat difficult and the things that have gotten me through are the advice and council of inspired priesthood holders and a father who is worthy to give me a blessing when needed. How grateful I am for a loving Heavenly Father who teaches us through these amazing men who are worthy to bless our lives and teach us. Having said that, I am also grateful for the women in my life. More specifically, an earthly mother, who calls me twice a day, knowing that her daughter is struggling. She cries with me and comforts me in a way no one else can. The Lord surely knows each one of us because he gives us people who will help us along the way.

Someone's got the blues

Today, on my way to work, I saw a woman with a blue wig on. And I wondered to myself, how I had missed that it was Halloween or April Fool's Day? Then I thought, it isn't Halloween or April Fool's Day. My next thought was, what a weird dream I'm having. And then I realized that this woman was real. As I walked into Derrell's, I wondered why would this woman be wearing a blue wig? All these scenarios went through my mind. Maybe you could help me. Why do you think she would want to do such a thing?

Eye of the Tiger

So here they are! It's the moment you've all been waiting for. These are the nominations for the best tiger award. I can't help but laugh everytime I see them. Do not ask me why, but I do, mostly because these are some of the people that I enjoy being with the most and they all make me smile or laugh. Now, there were two pictures that weren't put in because I was afraid that Ann would have killed me. She is the cutest little tiger. And the other...well, he couldn't be put in without her. It didn't seem right. If I get enough requests to see Ann and Kel, then I might just have to put them in. Feel free to make your picks.

Avery Merry Birthday weekend in Idaho

I'm in Idaho with the fam. Can't beat it!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY RYAN!!!!!!!!

The beautiful Village of Thai

So, here is the restaurant that Laura, Eric, and I ate at last weekend. We won't mention the events leading up to it. Let's just say Kimmy didn't have her cell phone and didn't get to the correct table on time. Sorry again you guys!! However, I loved the food despite the trauma before the food. I recommend this restaurant to anyone who enjoys Thai food or anyone who doesn't. It's that good!!!

Mickey, the "Miracle Worker"

So, this is my "miracle worker" sister, Michelle. I do believe our friend Stephen gave Michelle this name when he worked with her at campus craft and floral. I want to dedicate this post to her right now because this is probably the most crazy week of the year for her, but Michelle is incredible and if anyone is capable of the amazing feat of bringing love and joy to all in Provo on Valentines Day, she is. I'm so lucky to have her in my life and I don't thank her enough for all she does for me. This one's for you Mickey!! Love ya!

The Fray

I've been meaning to tell you all about a recent concert that I went to. Mind you I have not been to a concert for a while and I was so excited to go! There is something about a concert that gets your adrenaline pumping. I don't quite know how to explain it. Some of you know that I enjoy the smell of smoke every now and again, not because it's pleasant, but because it reminds me of all the good times I've had at concerts with my friends. One time I was at a show and lost my shoe. I was close to the stage and it was so crazy. I turned to this kid next to me and yelled to him "I lost my shoe!" He definately went down to get it. When he came back up after what seemed like an eternity, we both rejoiced in the moment.

A couple of weeks ago I went to see the Fray with a good friend of mine. They put on a pretty great show. I didn't lose my shoe this time, but I did receive this lovely looking t-shirt. How does it look? Thanks to Troy for adding to my concert experiences and also adding to my band t-shirt collection.