The Johnsons

Christmas

2012-01-19T19:08:00.000-08:00

Selena celebrated her very first Christmas this year! We loved having a little one to share all the excitement with! She was all smiles on the way to meet Santa.....

...and then she met him. And hated him. She was a bit traumatized by the whole experience. Next year will be better, right?

We went on a little Provo River Holiday Cruise to see the lights. It was FREEZING!

The highlight of Christmas was going home to WA. Selena was spoiled spoiled spoiled! She loves all the attention she gets and loves being the boss! I love when Selena gets to spend time with my family for an extended period, it happens far too little.

Christmas Morning

She doesn't look all that happy, but she LOVED all of her presents! She has so many new toys, it is so fun! Poor little girl did start teething the day before Christmas, so she is a little snot nosed in all of her pictures.

I love this picture of her and her static hair!

We did A LOT of this over the break- Relaxing! She is such a big girl now, and I feel like it is so bitter sweet. We loved our time at home and all the fun things that the Holiday season brings; friends, food, lots of sleep, and let's be honest I love the presents too! I love Christmas so much more now that I have my own little family to share it with! As for the New year and Resolutions, we have a few we are working on, we will see how we do! I can't wait to see what 2012 has in store for us!

November

2011-12-20T20:58:00.000-08:00

We went home for Thanksgiving and finally made it up to Leavenworth! Such a fun place!

The whole crew at lunch

Travelling in style, funniest thing ever.

Selena's first Thanksgiving, and she loved it! We feel so blessed to be at home with our Family!

Her first pony! Such a big girl! Selena is also sporting her first black eye! She got it from hitting her eye on the corner of the entertainment center, so sad!

Hanging out with Uncle Dave

It seems like time just keeps speeding up. We had such a wonderful time at home at Thanksgiving and were so grateful everyone could be there! We of course shopped all night and day on Black Friday and got some great deals. We are loving this Holiday Season and being able to experience all of Selena's firsts. She is growing so fast! She will be turning one in January, I can hardly believe it! We are looking forward to celebrating Christmas in WA!

2011-11-07T09:10:00.000-08:00

Selena and I had a little Mommy-Daughter date a few weeks ago to the Hogle Zoo. I guess everyday is kind of a Mommy-Daughter day, but I planned on going to the Zoo specifically for Selena, so to me it felt more special. I thought she would like the Zoo, and boy was I wrong, she LOVED it! I never would have guessed she would have got SO excited over the animals. It made me so happy to see her arms and legs go crazy every time she caught her eye on a new animal. Monkeys were a favorite for sure!

We went to the Zoo during fall break so it was crazy busy, but we had so much fun because some of our friends could come along!

The elephants were so fun to watch that day, they were super active. Selena's face is priceless. We had beautiful weather, great company, and a happy happy baby. Who could ask for more?

2011-11-06T21:07:00.000-08:00

Selena experienced her first BYU basketball game this past weekend. She loves all the people watching so she was thoroughly entertained the whole game. My favorite part of the night is when the lady next to me came back from the concessions stand with a pretzel and Selena popped her pacifier right out and was ready for a bite!

I feel like I am always taking pictures of Selena in her pajamas while she is eating breakfast, but she is always SO happy and funny right when she wakes up. She is growing so fast. She is into everything these days and learning a lot. She loves reading books, especially ones with animals. Selena loves to mimic sounds that we make, she says dada, but is still working on mama. She gives high fives, hates getting her nose wiped and loves food! She recently started drinking apple juice, and was unsure about it at first but now she can't get enough of it. She loves to be out and about wherever there is people, and I secretly think her favorite activity is shopping, just like her Mama!

October

2011-10-31T19:38:00.000-07:00

We had a great little date night with Texas Roadhouse and Jason Aldean. Can't go wrong with that combo! We love love loved the concert, and had a wonderful evening out alone! We did miss our little baby, but we are so grateful that Zachary's parents are willing to watch her for us.

Our weekly skyping sessions with my family keep me laughing all week long, I cannot wait for the Holidays when we can all be together for real!

Selena had her first experience carving pumpkins, she obviously wasn't too interested, but of course we had to get a picture.

Selena got her very first package in the mail from the Rodriguez's!

She loved all her new goodies!

We took Selena to the Lehi pool where she had the time of her life! I love that she is a water baby, she could splash and kick all day long in the pool. I am hoping next summer she still loves it.

Happy Halloween! Our little Witch made everything about this Holiday so much more fun. I am super excited for next year when we get to take her trick or treating!

The Past 3 Months....

2011-10-18T15:21:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken 2 months ago, 2 months! I am seriously going to be better at taking pictures and posting them. I need to record this little beauties life. She looks so much older now than she does in that picture, it is crazy how much more hair she has! She is now an official crawler as of 2 weeks ago. She is standing up on furniture and getting into everything!! She is such a happy little girl and the greatest joy to have in our home. Everything is funner with Selena!

Back in August my Mom came to visit and we went to a Tim McGraw concert. It was SO fun!

Late in the Summer we discovered Bridal Veil Falls and the Provo River Trail, I don't know how we haven't discovered that little gem before. It is such a beautiful trail and so nice for a little evening activity.

Over Labor Day we were able to make a trip home. We had fun cheering on Kendall at her soccer game, eating at the Mercantile, which is the bomb, and hanging out at home with everyone!

Selena's favorite activity outside of eating is hands down the bathtub! She is smiling from ear to ear while she turns into a prune from being in there so long! I just love that darling face!

Zachary and I were able to attend the Payson Temple Groundbreaking. It was a neat experience despite the rainy weather! We are so grateful that we will soon have a temple that much closer!

Last week Selena and I headed to Gardner Village with some girls in our ward. We had fun looking at all the festive decorations. Selena is dressed up as a little witch, I don't normally dress her like that.

In other news, we recently sold our home and moved to Spanish Fork. We love our new little home and the new ward has been so welcoming. We feel like this is our home and where we should be. I am hoping to keep this thing updated more frequently because heaven knows I stink at journaling! There is just so much sweet stuff in this life of ours not to record it in some way.

July re-cap

2011-07-26T19:17:00.000-07:00

This little sweetie is now eating Rice Cereal everyday, and will be 6 months tomorrow! She loves to chew on anything she can get her hands on, and is rolling like a crazy woman. Her little personality is really starting to come out, and we love discovering what she is all about.

We bought a boat at the beginning of the summer, nothing fancy, but it floats! We love going for evening cruises as long as we get out of there before the bugs attack!

4th of July - We saw the fireworks, went to the Freedom Festival and went shopping. My kind of holiday.

We took Selena on her first camping trip and hike up Diamond Fork to the hotpots. We saw quite a few snakes,and wished we had more water. Our little Selena is quite the outdoorsman though, she loved it!

Zachary whisked me away to Lake Powell for a weekend of heaven for our 4 year anniversary. It was seriously the best trip I have ever been on. Can't wait to go back next year!

No summer is complete without the Fiesta Days Rodeo. Love it every year, but we did miss the "Wild Child" this year.

Do you feel like we are camping all the time? I do! We had a little campout with friends up Spanish Fork Canyon. Check out Zachary's blazing fire. He was pretty proud.

Took a little Sunday hike up the Grotto Trail. I love Summer, there is always something to go do or explore. Why can't it be July all year?!

June Trip Home

2011-07-25T15:43:00.000-07:00

My grand arrival at the airport...I seriously felt like the Circus had come to town with the stares I was getting trailing through the airport. All worth it to be in Pasco!

Selena LOVES all the attention and quality time she gets when we are home!

Don't worry, this is me the day before the wedding. I was death. Luckily it turned out to be just a 24 hr thing, and I was good to do the next day!

The happy happy couple!

Our little family of three, I love it!

The original 5- love them. Best Family EVER!!!!

2011-06-09T09:20:00.000-07:00

Dr. Kristin Robinson! Woot Woot! We are so proud and excited for her!

Selena had her first plane ride, and traveled like a champ!

Had a little fun in China Town...

Spent an afternoon at the horse races, which was surprisingly fun!

Saw the Golden Gate Bridge...

Selena had her first dip in the pool. She pretty much gave no reaction. Love her!

Delbert

2011-06-09T09:13:00.000-07:00

Zachary felt it was very important for Selena to meet Delbert, the family horse. They had their first meeting, and of course Selena loved him!

The Big 3-0!

2011-05-18T15:40:00.000-07:00

Selena made sure to get her Daddy a really nice gift...it's more for her than anything else, but they both look so cute when they use it.

Somebody turned 30 earlier this month, and it wasn't me! I decided on a fun little getaway to Wendover to see Collin Raye to celebrate. We had so much fun, even though it was so so SO hard to leave little Selena behind (even though we knew she was in good hands.)

LOVED this concert. Collin Raye may be a little old, but he still put on a really good show! I may or may not have cried like a baby every time he sang any sort of sentimental song. I missed my baby!

We were so glad Bronco and Jody came to join in on the fun!

Note to self: The buffet in Wendover is not as great as I am trying to make it look in this picture!

We love Zachary so much, he is such a blessing in me and Selena's life. I feel so lucky that he is ours!

Easter

2011-05-18T15:35:00.000-07:00

Selena had her first Easter, and It's hard to be sure, but I think she loved it! The Easter Bunny brought her a few goodies, which she very graciously shared...

I love having this little babe around even more on holidays, so fun!

A Special Day for Selena

2011-05-06T09:59:00.000-07:00

This little beauty recieved a special blessing from her Dad in Church on April 10th.

We had so much friends and family here for the special occasion. Selena is so blessed to be so loved by so many people!

We love our little girl and her sweet and easy tempermant.

We just pray that we can be good parents for her!

Spring Break!

2011-04-20T08:51:00.000-07:00

My Mom and the kids were able to come down and spend their Spring Break week with us and we are so glad they did, even if it did snow/rain the entire time they were here (We got a foot of snow on their first night here)! We were able to go to the Sunday morning session of General Conference. Such a neat experience. I must be growing up because I love Conference more and more each time!

Although Conference was great, the morning started out a little hectic! We woke up with no power! Trying to get ready at 6 in the morning in the dark is a little tricky. We got creative with the lantern, but I am pretty sure that it's not really safe for indoor use, not our smartest move!

The kids loved having Selena all to themselves for the whole week. She definitely doesn't mind all the attention!

We saw a movie almost every night, you might as well when they are only $1.50! My favorite by far was Tangled, such a cute show! Plus, everything is cooler in 3D.

Our little Family. Sometimes I still can't believe I have a FAMILY, I am a MOM! Love it, and wouldn't change it for the world.

Did a little bowling at the BYU bowling Alley. Kristin apparently is professional bowler status, she blew everyone out of the water.

We love love love having everyone here, just wish we could always be together!

Birthday Trip

2011-04-16T20:41:00.000-07:00

We took this little darling to visit WA for the first time over my Birthday last month- the perfect Birthday present! We had so much fun showing her off to everyone!

We went out for my Birthday to Bob's Burgers- they have bomb onion rings! I was so glad we could make it to WA and Selena could meet her Great-Grandparents and all of our friends. She was so so good on the drive, I swear she spoils us.

Update

2011-03-23T20:23:00.000-07:00

Selena all ready for a little outing at 2 months old!!

Since I am lazy I am combining a bunch of randoms into one big post! I Feel like I am failing in documenting my child's life, so I am trying to be better at taking more regular photos and videos. I just always seem to forget! Lil' Selena is getting so BIG and so stinkin' cute! I am so grateful to be a Mama to this little girly!

Her first trip to Church...Please excuse the messy room, we had 9:00 Church and a newborn!

Love this Man now more than ever! He is such a good Dad, my heart just melts when I see them together.

Uncle Collin and Grandma came for a visit, they just can't seem to stay away from our little girl for too long! Collin was so cute being the ever-attentive Uncle. We are sure glad Selena has so many people who love her!

I am happy to say that Selena is enjoying her bath time a little bit more these days. The bath water has to be just the right temperature for her though.

Selena has been getting to spend some more time with Grandma Net these past few weeks since I went back to work. I think they are both loving it! And Andrea just loves Selena, she is always keeping an eye on Selena when she's around!

Aunt Kristin got to come for a visit as well! We LOVE having all these visitors!

Selena is 2 months old tomorrow. It is so fun to see her progress and watch her start to interact with the world around her, but it also makes me sad at how fast she is growing! I love every minute I get to spend with her, I am just keeping my fingers crossed that time will seem to slow down!

A Family Visit

2011-02-17T11:57:00.000-08:00

I was so so so grateful to have my Mom come and stay with us after Selena was born, I don't know how we would have survived without her! From cooking meals, changing diapers, getting up with Selena in the middle of the night, and just plain keeping me company, she was amazing!

My Dad and the kids were able to come and stay for the weekend the week after she was born. I really don't think a moment went by that Selena wasn't being held for those 4 days! She is one loved little girl!

Her first bath. Makes me sad to look at her little mad face! I am sorry to say that she still feels pretty much the same way about getting baths!

We LOVE cuddling and loving on our little girl. The only nice thing about my family leaving was we actually got to hold Selena! It was so hard to see my family go, but luckily we have lots of trips planned to see each other and thank goodness for Skype!

Selena

2011-02-10T15:26:00.000-08:00

Our little baby is finally here, and we couldn't be loving life more. We went in on Wednesday, January 26th for a non-stress test. My Dr. had told me the day before there was a 50% chance they would keep me and induce me based on the results of the test. At that point I started freaking out a little bit and went out and got all of the little last minute things we still needed. So we woke up on Wednesday morning and went to the hospital not really knowing what to expect.

One last picture before we left for the hospital. It is so nice not to have that big belly in the way anymore!

So based on the results from the non-stress test my fluid levels were really high and they decided to induce me. They started me on the pitocin about 10:30 AM, and finally at 3 AM Thursday morning I was ready to push. I pushed for 7 minutes and out she came! I couldn't believe she was finally here, best day ever!

All ready to go home!

Life has been different, but wonderful. We are so in love with Selena, and are so grateful to have her!

Christmas Vacation

2011-01-08T17:08:00.000-08:00

We LOVE being at home in Washington with everyone, the time always goes by way too fast.

Christmas Eve sibling gifts. We waste no time testing out our new digs!

I had fun catching up with my favorite girls, we don't get to see each other enough! ( Don't mind my 37 week prego belly, it just keeps growing!)

I love spending time with Mom and the girls at home! Shopping, cooking, sewing, and playing Kinect were a few of the favorite activities.

These two kill me. Zachary forgot shorts and t shirts so he walked around being twinners with my Dad all week long. Zachary's vacation was filled with football, sleeping, eating, football, sleeping, eating, and a little movie watching thrown in. He took his vacation very seriously! I guess he thought he better rest up before this baby comes!

New Years Eve at P.F. Changs with the whole family. Z is pretty good with the chopsticks!

Dad, Mom, and Kendall

Collin, Carmen, and Allen. For unknown reasons I have no picture of Kristin and Dave, but they were there to ring in the New Year as well! It was kind of a crazy night, but we all had fun and stayed up way too late!

I can't believe how fast 2010 came and went! 2011 is going to be one crazy year, we are in for some big changes! We wanted to make a new years resolution that we thought we could actually stick to and so.....wearing our retainers EVERY night is what we decided on! I know, we really went crazy with that one. We haven't missed a night yet though, and that feels good!

Only 14 more days until our new little one is due to arrive, and I am very excited but getting very nervous! We just can't believe how soon she will be here. We are so excited for this new stage of our lives and can't wait to hold her in our arms!

Christmas Concert

2011-01-04T17:04:00.000-08:00

This year we were lucky enough to get tickets to see the Mormon Tabernacle Christmas Concert. Of course I was loving the fact that David Archuleta was the guest performer. He is the bomb, and so nice. We invited the Hunter's to come along and had a great time! Dinner at Market Street Grill, which never disappoints, and then an amazing concert!

Thanksgiving

2011-01-04T16:49:00.000-08:00

Our Thanksgiving this year was a little different, but I have to admit it was a nice change. We decided to stay here in Utah since we would be going to WA for Christmas. It was Zachary's family's "off" year so it turned out to be just us and Zachary's parents for Thanksgiving dinner. It felt weird only having four people, but definitely more relaxing. After dinner I looked through the ads while everyone else took an afternoon nap, and then that night we went to see "Unstoppable." The rest of the weekend was filled with shopping, sleeping, and eating out a lot. I have to admit I loved having Zachary to myself for the whole Holiday weekend!! Sadly the only pictures I have to show for our Thanksgiving is Zachary and I waiting in the Wal-Mart aisle all night long to buy a TV. Funny night for sure, but don't think I will ever do that again!

2010-11-02T19:15:00.000-07:00

It has been far too long since my last post! You would think I would want to document all that is going on, and I really do WANT to, it's just the doing it part that I can't seem to get... We haven't done anything terribly exciting this fall. I was so anxious for October to get here, and now it has come and gone and we are into November. I am loving my job teaching at the elementary school. I have definitely learned a lot! Zachary is keeping busy with work and of course sports. That man loves to play/watch/think about sports 24/7! We are anxiously anticipating the arrival of our little girl, it feels like January will never come. We are loving experiencing all the new things that come with your first pregnancy, and trying to get everything ready for her to come!

A few weeks ago a guy in our ward let us use his BYU tickets. As luck would have it, that day was pouring rain! A few minutes after we got there the rain cleared and it was actually perfect weather for a few hours. We had fun cheering on BYU and actually seeing them win a game!

Finally finished! A project only a year in the making! I started piecing this quilt together last year, and finally got the desire to finish it off. I love how it turned out, and it is so soft. I can't wait to wrap our lil' babe up in it!

This little gem came together so quickly and was so fun to do because I did it all by myself from start to finish, even the quilting! I am definitely still learning, so I was pretty proud of myself. Thank goodness for these two projects or I think I might have gone crazy during football/baseball season!

And last but not least, a shot of me and my pregnant belly at 28 weeks. I have been horrible about taking pictures to document my growth, but every time I do take one and compare it to the previous time I can't believe how much I have grown! It is a little scary for me to think that I will be getting even bigger!

2010-09-19T19:55:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Zachary and I went to New York to visit his Brother and family and see the sights. We had such a great time, New York is so beautiful! I miss all the green. Kirk and Rachel were such wonderful hosts and we miss them so much already...hopefully we'll be able to make it back there again sometime soon!

Here I am showcasing my "baby bump." This picture was taken at 20 weeks, but I feel like it more true to what I really look like currently at 22 weeks. I am growing, growing, growing!

We spent one day at Long Beach, and had so much fun. It was gorgeous weather and a beautiful beach! Neither of us dared get in the water, we got to stop watching Shark Week....We had fun walking the beach and looking at all the jelly fish and sea shells that had washed up.

Grand Central Station is amazing! That place is huge and gorgeous! How people find their way around that place, I have no idea...

On Saturday afternoon we went to a Yankees game at Yankee Stadium. Going to that stadium is an experience in itself, it is quite the place. Luckily we had seats in the shade and we loved having a few hot dogs while we watched the game!

One day we went into the City with everyone. We had fun checking out Central Park, Times Square, eating lunch at Bubba Gumps, and topping it all off with a piece of cheesecake from Carnegie Deli, divine!

And of course on the hottest, most humid day there we were at the US Open all day, outside! We didn't let the heat get us down though! The highlight of the day was watching Roger Federer play. We also loved watching Mardy Fish, and the # 1 Women's singles player, can't remember her name though.

Doug J'net were getting creative trying to keep the sun off of their heads! We were so glad we were able to make the trip with them and share all these fun experiences!

Please excuse my lovely appearance, by the end of the day I was a sweaty mess! It was such a fun experience, and one we can check off our list.

My favorite thing we did...Mary Poppins on Broadway. I LOVED it! Everything about it was fun and amazing, especially the set changes. Zachary even loved it!

Z was loving this cop on a horse, he just had to get a picture!

(funny story, as I was posting this I turned to Zachary and asked, "What do they they call cops on horses?" His response, "cops on horses." Isn't there a real name for them?)

We rode the Subway over to the Statue of Liberty, saw Ground Zero, made a few purchases on Canal Street ( you know I love that place!) and saw the Empire State Building. I was totally worn out at the end of that day!

We loved our time in New York and now it's back to life! I even have started working again, teaching 5th and 6th graders and I love it! It is definitely a new adventure everyday, but that's what makes it so fun!

In case you haven't heard....

2010-09-15T19:46:00.000-07:00

We're having a GIRL!

I can't wait to start decorating the nursery!

Paul McCartney Rocks!

2010-08-07T12:37:00.000-07:00

For our anniversary this year we celebrated in style by going to a Paul McCartney Concert! It was fun to be there and jam out to all the Beatles songs we grew up listening to. I can't believe it has been three years already! Time flies...and we are loving every minute!

It's always fun (and crazy) when Collin comes!

2010-08-02T12:15:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun while Collin was here to visit earlier this month! It was non-stop partying around here for two weeks, and I have to admit I was exhausted by the time he left! Collin loved going for bike rides around town..

We spent one night at Trafalga, which is always a good time!

We invited my nephew Issaac along one night to hike Timpanogas Caves. Luckily, we had perfect weather, but that hike is steep!

I didn't know if I was going to make it to the top...I'll blame it on the pregnancy!

One afternoon we made our way up to the Salt Lake Temple to do baptisms. It was such a neat experience, and probably my favorite thing we did!

Collin was here for the Fourth, so he got to take part in all of the festivities for the the Freedom Days Festival in Provo. We got up EARLY one morning to go over and watch the balloon launch. Unfortunately it was a bit windy, so none of the balloons went anywhere. But we did get to watch the balloons get blown up, which was fun.

Th pig balloon was of course my favorite!

We are so happy Collin got to come and spend a few weeks with us here in Utah. He definitely brought some excitement and kept us on our toes! We can't wait until he comes again!

It's official...

2010-07-13T16:27:00.000-07:00

Baby Johnson is on his/her way!

We can't wait for January to be here and just simply couldn't be happier!

Hooked on Fishin'

2010-07-03T15:52:00.000-07:00

Collin has been here in Utah with me the past week and we have had so much fun! One thing he has found he loves here in Utah is fishing at the Reservoirs and ponds. We have been going almost everyday!

He has had some good days....

...and some not so good days! Look closely, can you see that LURE hanging from his back?!

Yowza! It looked like it hurt and it was in there good! After a few hours and finally a trip to the Urgent care clinic, the lure was successfully removed and Collin has a fun story to tell all his friends. What an adventure!

Feels so nice...

2010-06-13T09:40:00.000-07:00

...to be a college graduate! I finally made it, and I am so happy to be done with school for the time being.

I was so lucky to have all of our family here for the big day. I am so grateful to have such an amazing supportive family!

Luckily while Collin was in town he was able to earn his degree as well, in none other than "ladyology." That kid is a total crack up, he came up with that one all on his own!

We ended the day with lunch at Tucanos and went home stuffed to the brim! It was such a fun day and I was so happy everyone was here to share it with me! Now I just have to figure out what to do with my life...

Seattle

2010-05-18T12:53:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Zachary was off to Seattle for a Conference and I decided to tag along, I'm so glad I did. I was a little worried about being able to fill my time while he was at the conference, but I figured if anything I could read a book. I brought two books and didn't even touch one of them! Luckily we were staying downtown for the first part of the trip so I was close to all the shopping a girl could ever wish for! I had a grand time sleeping in, taking my time getting ready, meeting Z for lunch, and shopping the afternoon away!

I LOVE the Pike Place Market, it was so fun just to walk around and see all the action that was going on. We also got to buy a bouquet of those gorgeous flowers to take home for Z's mom for Mothers Day. I couldn't get over how gorgeous they were, and was wishing I would have snagged a bouquet for myself!

First stop after we checked into our Hotel was Ivars fish bar for some fish and chips. It didn't disappoint! Zachary was brave enough to feed the seagulls, but as you can see below I got up enough courage to pretty much hide in the corner and pray to make it out alive...those birds are terrifying!

We took little harbor cruise which was so fun. Surprisingly the weather was gorgeous the entire time we were there! It was a little chilly on the boat, but we were grateful the sun was shining!

Zachary was adamant that if we only do one thing while in Seattle, that one thing would be to attend a Mariners game, so that we did. Unfortunately the Mariners lost 8-0 with their pitcher throwing back to back to back home runs! It was still fun to have a hot dog and some garlic fries while rooting for our team!

We celebrated Zachary's birthday with dinner at the crab pot! We LOVE that place. Of course we had to recreate the picture from our honeymoon almost 3 years ago....and now I am feeling sick because I just went to upload that picture and can't find any of our honeymoon pictures anywhere!! Hope that I can find them...

The Seattle Aquarium, Space Needle, Pacific Science Center, and EMP museum were a few other stops on our lil' vacay. The last few days we got lucky and scored a sweet deal through priceline (which I am a firm believer in) on a room at the Edgewater Hotel. I think that hotel room actually was my favorite part of the trip, you could fish off the balcony if you wanted! We had so much fun, and can't wait until we can get away again!

WA Home = Good Times

2010-04-19T14:58:00.000-07:00

We made a last minute trip home last weekend, and as always I had the time of my life. I love being home and all the wonderful things that go with it, like corner store Jo-Jo's. I live for those things every time I go home!

We spent lots of time outside having a photo shoot and jumping on the tramp, one of my favorite past times(the jumping, not the photo shooting.)

Watched this lil' man tear it up on the soccer field, and pass the sacrament for the first time (seriously one of my prouder moments!)

Finally got some face time with one of my best girls! We could chat for hours upon hours, but lately it always seems like she catches me at my sleepiest moments! Seeing her definitely made the trip worthwhile for me!

Got to hang out with these gooby lovebirds, like seriously, what are they doing in this photo?

Had a little late night marshmallow roasting. Unfortunately Kendall wasn't there because she was livin' it up at the Stake Dance! Oh yea! I was loving life getting her ready for the dance, takes me back to the good old days!

Our trips home are never long enough, but thankfully we are marathoners in the amount of times we are seeing my family this month! So the goodbye wasn't too sad. Except for the recent news that a certain friend is moving back home makes me so jealous, and maybe a little whiny on the way back to Utah....I have to be good though or Z won't let me go home as much!

PUMP you up!

2010-04-19T14:55:00.000-07:00

Last month we had our New Beginnings program for the Young Women's. It was such a cute program and of course the girls were amazing. Everything was fitness and exercise and how the physical correlates with the spiritual. I LOVE these girlies! They are always teaching me something new, and of course keeping me young and hip ;)

A big thank you to my Mom and Kendall for helping me put together the fruit kabobs. Sometimes after my Mom leaves I wonder how I even function without her around, she is the best!

Family Visit

2010-04-19T10:03:00.000-07:00

These little lovlies along with my parents came to visit last month! It was so fun, it always is when the family comes.

We spent a day riding horses up in the mountains and my nephew Issac tagged along to play with Collin.

Carmen and Kendall riding

We FINALLY got my parents on the back of a horse, they never want to ride but this time they went for it!

I LOVE this picture of the Z man and his Pops, I think it is darling.

What would a trip to the mountain be without roasting hot dogs over the fire? Too bad my house smelled like fire for the next three days!

We had lots of fun adventures and a good time was had by all, we can't wait for them to be here in 2 weeks! It will definitley be a party!

2010-03-21T09:39:00.000-07:00

I haven't updated this blog forever, and I guess it is high time! Life for the Johnsons has been wonderful. I have been doing my student teaching in a first grade classroom for the past 3 months and I have LOVED it! My last day is on Tuesday and I can hardly believe it. I am getting really sad because I love those little kids and I am going to miss them a lot! Now I am just crossing my fingers for a teaching job next year!

We celebrated my 24th birthday earlier this week. Zachary treated me to a day of shopping (truly a gift, coming from a man who detests shopping!) and my own pair of riding gloves. I am a true Johnson now! I can't wait for it to warm up a bit so we can go on a ride and try those gloves out!

My family is coming to visit next weekend and I am SO excited, and then everyone will be here at the end of April for my long anticipated graduation...Finally! We are on the countdown to summer and wrote a bucket list of all the fun things we want, no need to do this summer! We will be very busy! Life is always full and I am so happy, a girl couldn't ask for much more.

A Washington Christmas

2010-01-06T21:44:00.000-08:00

I know this is a little late, but our Christmas break in Washington went a little something like this...

Getting home on Christmas Eve just in time for Christmas dinner- excited to see the family!

Got a little crazy at the traditional Christmas Eve dinner because I was SO excited to finally be home with the ones we love most!

Spent a day at the Bosch's cabin. So fun to catch up with old friends.

Zachary decided he wants to purchase one of these bad boys- add it to the dream list darling!

A little father/daughter time...

Laughed at our Crazy cool siblings

Opened presents Christmas morning- Loving every minute

Unsuccessfully used the timer to get a picture with everyone in it...sadly the others weren't much better!

Christmas break always goes way too fast and once again we are on the countdown until the next time we can make it to Washington.

Hayride around Salem Pond

2010-01-05T13:38:00.000-08:00

This year the Johnsons and Hughes got together on the Sunday before Christmas to take a hay ride around the Salem pond to look at the Christmas lights. I love Salem Pond at Christmastime, it is so pretty! It was cold, but we had a great time singing Christmas songs and visiting with each other.

Neil and Bells. She looks like a little Gangsta!

Ryan, Jamie, and Andrea

Me and the Z-man. Notice the Mariners gear he is sportin'!

We are back home now from spending almost 2 weeks in Washington. It was so fun, and always too short! I am home for this week, and then I start my student teaching next Monday- Scary! I am working on getting a lot of projects done around the house including building and upholstering a headboard. Hope it turns out!

We are excited for 2010 and can't wait to see what is in store for us!

A Christmas Carol Party

2009-12-18T09:13:00.000-08:00

Last week we had some friends over for a little Christmas Party. We went caroling, and then came back to our house for some hot chocolate and cinnamon rolls. It was my first time making cinnamon rolls, and they didn't look the best, but they tasted great! I was so happy they turned out!

Bronco and Jody having some treats. It was a bit crowded in our little home, but it was so fun to have people over and get to chat with everyone!

All the girls where the good stuff is! Of course we seat ourselves right by the food!

Night on the Town

2009-12-18T09:10:00.000-08:00

Last weekend we went with our friends Jordan and Irena up to Salt Lake to watch the Mormon Tabernacle Christmas Concert. We had a fun night doing a little shopping at the Gateway, eating at Macaroni Grill and off to the concert! It was amazing, quite the production and I loved every minute of it!

College Snow Day!

2009-12-08T16:31:00.000-08:00

We have been having a blizzard snow storm for the past 24 hours, and it just keeps coming! There was so much snow and the roads were so bad I called my professor to see if it was OK to not come to school today- and he said it was!! I was so happy I got to stay home and shovel my driveway, which I love, and clean the house! All the snow is so pretty and makes me happy, especially my Christmas wreath on my front door dusted with fresh snow!

I had just got done shoveling the driveway and it was already completely covered again!

Christmas Cookie Exchange

2009-12-08T13:28:00.000-08:00

A friend from our ward hosted a Christmas cookie exchange and it was SO fun! There were tons of good cookies, I can't wait to try all of the recipes. It was so fun to sit and chat and have some girl time without the husbands!

Thanksgiving and of course Black Friday!!

2009-12-02T20:17:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was great this year. We stayed in Utah and spent it with the Johnsons. We had fun decorating sugar cookies, watching Enchanted, mapping out our game plan for black Friday, and of course eating as much as we possibly could! Sadly this is the only picture I got of the day, but something is better than nothing, right?! We have so much to be thankful for and I am so grateful that every year there is a day to remind me to count my blessings.

This year I am thankful for...

Eternal marriage and Temples

My amazing family (Rodriguez and Johnson)

New friends

My LAST semester of college classes

My church calling

and my hair finally growing out (serious!)

J'net and Johanna were serious troopers this year and ventured out to do a little early morning shopping with me. I think I got them hooked! We had fun finding all the sales and eating in-n-out at 9:00 a.m. I know we are looking a little rough but we were planning on going home and going back to bed after the first stop at Wal-Mart, but we just decided to keep shopping! Now only if returning was as much fun as the shopping...

Turkey Bowl 2009

2009-12-02T20:14:00.000-08:00

Johanna and Josie and I suffered thru the freezing temperatures to watch the boys play in the annual turkey bowl. The Johnson boys don't mess around when it comes to football and thanks to their cousin Nate they get to play on field-turf under the lights the night before Thanksgiving. They love it because they get to feel like big-timers!

Ryan, Issac, Garret, Neil, Zachary, and little Reidster sneaking away!

Josie was just a little doll in her snow suit and bunny hat! She is doing a bunny face if you can't tell.

Bundled up as much as possible- we looked like marshmallows!

Remember the 4 D's!

2009-12-01T20:13:00.000-08:00

Over Thanksgiving break we got to play in a dodgeball tournament, which was fun and embarrassing all at the same time. I had two good catches, but then it was all downhill from there...You better believe I am going to start training now for next years tournament!

Some of the "Ace of Spades"

Z and Chance with their game faces on... I wish I would have got more pictures but of course my camera died right after I took this one.

It's always fun when Family comes!

2009-11-30T20:12:00.000-08:00

I am completely lame and this is the only picture I have to prove that my family came to visit a few weeks ago. I am convinced a new camera would cure my problem of never taking pictures, but the Z-man is not so sure...I LOVE when my Family comes and am always SO sad to see them go. We had such a fun time and it made me want Christmas to come even faster! I can't wait to go home and play games, watch family home videos, and make fun of each other (mostly they all the just make fun of me...) and just party 24/7! Collin and Kendall have been working really hard in school. Zachary and I told them that if they got a 4.0 we would take them out to eat at any restaurant of their choosing or some other type of reward. Collin chose to eat at Tucanos while they were here which was delish as always! It was my Mom and Kendalls first experience and I think they loved it too. Kendall chose to get a manicure when I come home at Christmas- pictures of that to come. We spent our time relaxing, shopping, playing games, and of course eating. My family also got to come to my ward with me for the first time which I loved. Everyone loved meeting them and my Mom got to observe me in action with the Young Women- too funny!

CANNOT WAIT FOR CHRISTMAS!!!!!

Livin' it up in Las Vegas

2009-11-30T16:07:00.000-08:00

Holy cow, I stink at updating this blog! It seems like time never slows down at the Johnson home, but we are partying like crazy and loving every minute of it! Last month Z-man's brother offered up their home down in St. George and we just couldn't pass up the opportunity for a little weekend getaway. We had a great time chatting in the car, watching movies, lounging by the pool and Visiting B and Tru in Las Vegas!

Of course we were there on Halloween when all the funnies come out. I was a little hesitant about going on Halloween, but it actually wasn't too bad. We definitely got some good laughs and good pics with all the crazies! Don't even worry that MJ was there, just chilling all night by himself. B didn't hesitate to get a shot with him!

We always take a picture by the fountains, it's tradition now.

LOVED cruising the streets of the Vegas with Britt and Tru- nothing better!

And our Las Vegas experience would not be complete without Z convincing us to eat a $6.00 steak and crab dinner at Jerry's Nugget and Casino- classy place. Of course I threw up later that night- I think it was the Ranch dressing that did me in.

We loved every minute of the warm weather and spending time together. We also ate at the Bear Paw Cafe in St. George for the first time, which was way good. I am stopping in there more often for sure!

update

2009-10-26T17:40:00.000-07:00

It seems that I have been horrible at taking pictures lately! I am always forgetting my camera at home. Once in a while I'll snap a picture on the cell phone, but do you think I am smart enough to get them off my phone?! Things at the Johnson home have been busy as usual. We (as in Zachary) are loving football season and the constant stream of games to watch. I start my field experience next week teaching in the classroom for the month of November where I will be doing my student teaching in January. I am excited, and also very nervous. I always felt like the day of student teaching would never come and now it is just around the corner. I am most excited about doing read-alouds with the students, can't wait!

A few weekends ago we went to the Salem Hills High School football game with our awesome friends the Hunters. It was so cold, but so fun. Jody and I were tempted to stay for the post game dance party, but the husbands dragged us back home to roll some dice. I will forever be indebted to Bronco and Jody for teaching us the best dice games known to man. Hours and hours of fun!

Last weekend we got to watch Josie and Bella while their parents went on vacation to Seattle (I was totally jealous by the way!) We had such a fun fun time with our sweet little nieces though. We rode horses, had a BBQ, and went to the indoor water park, which by the way is totally awesome!

Isn't the cutest picture ever?!?!

Even though we had a total blast with the girls, I am not going to lie that it wasn't a total eye opener for us! Kids are way more work than I thought, and it's not like I haven't been around kids or people with kids a lot?! Sunday morning was the hardest, I felt like I was running around like a crazy woman all morning. Our church doesn't start until 11, and we still walked in a few minutes late. Even though I was dead tired by the time Sunday night rolled around I loved every minute of it, and would do it over again every weekend in a heartbeat!

Rise and Shout...

2009-10-09T08:55:00.000-07:00

...the Cougars are out!

I have become quite the BYU fan being married to the Z man and living in Utah. Last week our friends Bronco and Jody (thanks guys!) gave us so some sweet tickets to the BYU game. Despite the cold weather we bundled up (I seriously looked like a marshmallow!) and had a great time cheering on the Cougars! Hopefully we can make it to another game this year. Don't even worry that a Di Luigi jersey is on my Christmas wish list this year ;)

We had such a great weekend just relaxing at home and watching conference. I was sewing up a storm all weekend long while I listened. My friend Portia and I had a sewing party while the boys were at Priesthood, and we had so much fun! We definitely need to do it again. School continues to be busy but I love it. I am so excited for my student teaching and it couldn't get here fast enough! We are SO excited for the upcoming holidays, I have been finding myself ready to bust out the Christmas music already! This week I am going to attempt to can some apples thanks to my wonderful Grandpa who brought some up from WA. It should be an adventure!

St. George Getaway

2009-10-08T08:52:00.000-07:00

(They asked me and Jo to step in for some footloose actors who were out sick, we look good!)

A few weekends ago we went with some of the Johnsons down to St. George. Thank you SO much to Ryan and Jamie for giving us a place to stay, it was wonderful! It was such a fun trip and I loved every minute of it. We rolled lots of dice, ate some good food, watched the BYU game, basked in the hot weather, and went to this awesome park that made me totally sick!

The girls plus Doug went to see Aida at the Tuacahn. I love that place, don't know why I've never been before. What a beautiful backdrop! Aida was so good, I loved the music and the story and the actors were great. I can't wait to go again next summer!

Saturday was spent shopping for the girls, golfing for the boys, and swimming for everyone! The pool was freezing cold, but it was so nice to dip in and then lay out in the sun. So sad summer is gone already...is Christmas here yet?!

Love these little girlies, so fun to hang out with the nieces and nephews for a few days!

Labor Day Fun

2009-09-17T21:05:00.000-07:00

During the summer we have spent a few weekends up at Doug and J'nets cabin property helping them build their line shack. Well Zachary helps them build and I just visit and make lunch! We spent the night there the Sunday before Labor Day and then spent the day up there working. J'net the grandkids and I installed the insulation while the Men worked on the roof. It looks so good! I can finally see it coming together. Tomorrow they will be going up to put on the siding and I can't wait to see what it looks like then.

This is the line shack before the roof...

And after the roof is on. We are currently trying to come up with a new name for it...
I think it is just the cutest little general store building ever.

The cabin property is up Skyline Mtn. Resort, and they have a golf course. Monday morning Zachary took me down to the driving range to hit some balls. I am not very good, but I think I am improving ;)

Perfect swing! Zachary is REALLY good!

Also our last trip up to the cabin property was especially cool because we saw a Bobcat and it's two little kittens(?) and also an Elk! That picture is of the Mama Bobcat, it is not a very good one but we had to prove we actually saw one!

B-day Shout Out!!

2009-09-15T14:55:00.000-07:00

Wishing a Happy Happy Birthday to the funniest, sweetest, most adventuresome, loving girl I know. Hope your day is the best, because you for sure deserve it!

LOVE you forever!

WA by the numbers

2009-09-11T09:48:00.000-07:00

hours spent on the phone with z who couldn't come :(

hours spend watching home videos- pure comedy!

dollars spent on ONE sandwich at the fair

hours spent watching the kids show at the fair

samples tasted at the Country Mercantile

lessons on how to properly ride a motorcycle, administered by Collin

hours spent at the pool

cupcakes eaten at Nataley's reception. embarrassing I know.

times I went to the corner store for lunch- those jo jo's just can't be beat!

demolition derby attended

I couldn't have asked for a better way to end my summer! I miss my family SO much already, the trips are never long enough! The day after I got back it was off to School for me. I have really loved being back in school and can't believe it is my last semester! The end is near! It has been a little challenging adjusting back to my school schedule and I always feel like I am running around with my head cut off, but life is great. I watched Hannah Montana, the movie the other night. LOVED it by the way. Anyways I am a total cheeseball but I loved when Jake (i think that is his name) says, "life's a climb, but the view is great!" So so cheesey, but I love it. So life is crazy, but there is never a dull moment and we are just trying to enjoy every minute!

Washington

2009-09-11T08:55:00.000-07:00

Kristin and Dave loving their treat from the Mercantile. LOVE that place, who knew?

The first day I was there we all piled in the car and went for a little cruise. It was some great family time, and I love driving around seeing all the farm land.

Isn't that just about the most beautiful site you have ever seen? OK, maybe not ever, but I do love it. It is just so home to me.

My sibling always bring out the crazy in me! And that ice cream = the bomb!

Loved watching Collin and Kendall at the fair. They are such great little showmen! I just can't believe how OLD they are!

My Dad, always a weirdo! Just kidding....

At the Demolition Derby. I decided I should enter next year. The winner wins 1,000 bucks!

Kendall in action. She did so awesome showing! And check out that gorgeous hair!

Nat's Wedding!!

2009-09-09T14:08:00.000-07:00

We got to go to Nataley's wedding, which seems like it was ages ago! Nataley was a beautiful bride and it was such a wonderful day. We were so glad we could be there to share the special day with someone we love so much!

Addy, Marlene, Jen, and Grandma Leona
Love all these ladies, I felt like I was at a family reunion that day, all of Nataley's family members have been way to good to me over the years!

The HAPPY couple! They were both just so cool and collected the whole day, and I will forever love Colby for continually correcting the sealer on Nat's last name.

Bishop Neider and his sweet wife were able to make it to the sealing. Bishop Neider was our bishop in our ward up at BYU-Idaho. I love this man, he is seriously so amazing. It was such a treat to be able to visit with him and have him there for Nataley's special day!

And of course I just love weddings because I always think back on my own. My life changed that day forever, obviously for the better! I can't imagine it any other way!

Britt and I were just loving life that day! It was so fun getting ready together that morning and sitting next to each other in the sealing room. I have the best friends a girl could ask for.

We ended the day at Texas Roadhouse- YUM!

Just another Sunday night with the Johnsons

2009-09-09T14:03:00.000-07:00

My favorite part of Sundays is when 6:30 rolls around and we are out the door to go to Doug and J'nets house for some family fun! I am so blessed to be able to live so close to Zachary's family since I am so far away from mine. I love that my wonderful mother-in- law opens her home to us and always has a delicious dessert to serve. Last week was zucchini cake- Amazing!

This Sunday was Bella's birthday. The kids were all just looking so cute in their party hats!

Josie and Andrea are seriously so cute to watch play together. My favorite is to eavesdrop on their little conversations with each other- priceless!

Sunday afternoons just wouldn't be complete without a little friendly competition. My favorite is playing steal the bacon! Mostly the guys just like to play a little "Sunday pass."
I love the above picture because it looks like the football is Z's mustache!

The birthday girl with her FAVORITE uncle. Just kidding! no but really ;) Despite Bella's look she's giving, I think she really did enjoy her party!

Wednesday night ride

2009-08-22T13:59:00.000-07:00

It was just one adventure after another while Britt was here. It was so great having her here for the week, come back B! We went on a little horseback ride on Wednesday night and she was a natural cowgirl!

I don't know how I got so lucky with this cute cowboy of a husband, thank-you thank-you for taking us!

Britt on Lily(also referred to as baby by Britt) and I am on Little Bug. It was such a pretty ride and the temperature was perfect. To top it all off we saw a BEAR!! We are so lucky because I don't think it is hardly ever that people spot those up Payson Canyon. It was definitely exciting. That night we went home and made some amazing homemade salsa and watched Friday Night Lights. Everything is more fun when Brittani is here!

Let the good times roll (at seven peaks!)

2009-08-20T13:54:00.000-07:00

While B was in town for Nat's wedding we all got together to go to Seven Peaks, and let me tell you I just love that place! It was so fun to skip out on work for a 1/2 day to lay in the sun and play with my best friends! I only wish that we could have these little outings more often...

Nat and Britt chillin' on the tube. We loved those tube rides and just couldn't get enough. B is a total crazy woman and always talks me into doing this daredevil stuff! Of course she went backwards on the scariest half-pipe slide, always up for an adventure, that girl!

Dippin' dots, mmmm.... my favorite treat!

After Seven Peaks we went back to Andrea's house for some pizza and more funny times. Britt and I got to go over to the hot tub while Andrea gave the kids baths, we met some interesting people there... Before I knew it 11:00 had rolled around and it was time for me to get home to the Z-man. It was such a great day and I was so happy I got to spend the time with the best girls!

LIVE GREAT!

2009-08-18T13:48:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Zachary and I had the opportunity to run in our first 5K. We, no let me rephrase that, I, have always wanted to run in one and this little extra push was just what I needed. The Mark the Great Benefit 5K was for a family in our ward who recently lost their husband and father. It was so so so awesome to be a part of something so great. I almost cried when we got there because there were 100's and 100's of people there to support this family. What a great community we live in. I hope I can LIVE GREAT, just like Mark Richardson did.

Don't even worry that Zachary beat me, I was so mad!!! We had been running the week before, and everyday I was totally smoking Zachary. Well the little sneaky dog ran with me the whole way and then sprinted it out the last 100 yards of the race. I most definitely am not as fast as Zachary so there was no way I was catching up with him. I know his sneaky moves now though, next time I will be #1...oh yea Zachary, that's a challenge!

Summertime! with Kenny

2009-08-03T12:26:00.000-07:00

Zachary and I went to the Kenny Chesney concert and had the time of our lives. I LOVE concerts, especially country ones. We were totally bummed that Sugarland didn't show(!) but we loved Lady Antebellum and Miranda Lambert. Miranda Lambert is one crazy woman!

Zachary is a little sneaky dog and once the concert started he just worked his way up until we were right up front, we had so much fun singing and dancing the night away!

I loved this sign they had outside of the concert- YIKES! I am happy to report I suffered no permanent hearing damage. I am itching to go to another concert this summer now- Brad Paisley, anyone?

Zachary's kind of Anniversary

2009-08-02T20:22:00.000-07:00

So, Zachary and I rotate every year who plans our anniversary festivities(?). This year was his year and he decided to take me on an overnight horseback ride. It was definitely a new experience but we had a ton of fun. On our way up the mountain of course it started pouring rain on us, which made me a little skeptical. Zachary was a total mountain man though and made due, I think he secretly loved it that it poured on us the whole time, because he felt like "The Man from Snowy River".

Our little campsite- true camping at it's best.

And of course you can't go camping without roasting some marshmallows- after being cold and wet, smores were the perfect bedtime treat!

Fiesta Days Rodeo

2009-08-02T20:08:00.000-07:00

We had such a fun time with the Johnsons' this year at the Spanish Fork Fiesta Days Rodeo. I did always want to be a rodeo queen ya know, but it just wasn't in the cards for me...

Isaac, Doug, and J'net, who in fact was a rodeo queen in her day. Her outfit was sweet!
Reed, Noah, and Andrea- love these little kiddos. They were getting in trouble ALL night long for standing up against the railing, but they didn't care. They knew where the action was.

Jamie, and Garret and Tiff's family

Andrea is Zachary's little buddy, and I am not going to lie, it makes me jealous that she prefers Zachary to me.

A fun time was had by all!

Currently I am loving...

2009-07-30T14:16:00.000-07:00

...reading the Columbia Basin Ward Reunion Blog! I don't know how I never knew about this thing. I found myself laughing, and even getting a little teary-eyed reading it. It was so neat for me to read about the history of our ward in the early years. I don't think I could have grown up in a better ward with better people. Thinking about growing up in the Columbia Basin just makes me so happy. I can only hope my kids will have such amazing examples and peers through their life like I did in mine! If you haven't already checked it out, here is the link. I promise you won't be sorry!

Sleeping in the great outdoors

2009-07-24T07:44:00.000-07:00

Just a cute picture of the Z-man. We went up to the cabin property last weekend to do a little work and Zachary convinced me to sleep out under the stars. I was a little nervous, but I was so glad we did. The night was gorgeous and it has been a long time since I had seen so many stars!

4th of July

2009-07-22T10:30:00.000-07:00

This post is so so late but it just seems that we have been crazy busy and I never have time or want to update this blog. Zachary and I have been going non-stop, filling up on all the fun summer has to offer! We are always wishing for the days when we were kids and had no responsibilities and could just PLAY all summer! My life is so full and I am constantly thinking, "does it get better than this?" We definitely have our share of bad days and bad moods but I am really trying to focus on all the good things in our life, and there are so many! We got to go to Washington for the fourth. It was a total last minute trip and I am so grateful for a husband who indulges me in all my shenanigans. We had so much fun at home! It was great to lay out by the pool and just spend time with my family. We got back from Washington late Sunday night and the next day it was off to Girls Camp for me. I LOVE girls camp. It was a totally different experience going as a leader rather than one of the girls, but it was so great to be up there with the Young Women. I am loving working with the Young Women in our ward, most of the time I just feel like I am still a Laurel in Young Womens, it is awesome!

On the third we continued our tradition of having a fireworks show in our backyard. I think those fireworks just get better every year thanks to our chief pyrotech, Carmen.

Collin getting ready to pass out the sparklers- I love those things, they just make me happy.

Carm and Melissa at the fireworks down at the River. I love going home and having everything the way I have always remembered it on Holidays. We always go to the CBW Fourth of July breakfast, we always swim, we always get together with family and friends for a BBQ, and we always head down to the river to watch the fireworks. I guess it makes me feel like a kid again for a little while!

Me and the Z-man at the fireworks. When I got back from WA I went over to my sister-in-laws house and when I walked in she said, "hello indian!" I guess I got pretty dark laying out by the pool! Can't wait to go home in August!

The best two years!

2009-07-21T07:47:00.000-07:00

Two years ago today was the best day ever because I was sealed to Zachary! I am so grateful to have Zachary by my side. I could not ask for a more sweet, loving, funny, hard-working, caring husband. These past two years have been the best of my life and I can't wait to spend many more with this love of mine!

Sunshine & Summertime

2009-06-23T20:53:00.000-07:00

San Diego was amazing- The above picture is a great representation of how I felt the entire week I was there. We had so much fun playing in the Ocean, watching dolphins from our balcony, playing tennis, swimming, trying to get ready and cook with no electricity and cold showers one day while the electricity was out(!), and soaking up the California sun!

Sea World was doing this promotional "summer nights" thing while we were there and of course I was loving that. We went to a night show called Shamu Rocks and let me just say Shamu truly did ROCK! That show was so awesome, and don't even worry that our family got the wave started in Shamu Stadium. Yes, we are that cool...

We went to the Wild Animal Park and the San Diego Zoo while we were there as well. Let me just say that I felt like the Wild Animal Park was a total bust! You had to walk about 5 miles just to get to the next exhibit and then when you got there, no animals were to be seen! We still made the most of it though, even though it was "blazing hot"! ( that is a direct quote from my Dad.)

One day we went down to San Diego and walked along the boardwalk, it was so fun! There was a ton of fun little shops to look in and a lot of crazies on the street trying to sell stuff. This guy was there with about 20 different parrots and he would just grab you and put the parrot on your shoulder or arm. He accepted donations naturally. That parrot Z is holding was so massive! It scared me half to death.

Kendall's parrot wasn't quite as huge, but still freaks me out!

Luckily our condo had tennis courts so we finally got to hold the long anticipated tennis match between myself and my Dad. We took a picture mid-match where I was leading 4-3. Don't worry I went on to beat my Dad TWICE! He went home and bought a racket so he could practice up for next year, and to that I say, dream on!

Zachary wasn't able to make it for the first couple days and I was so happy when he finally got there, it is always so fun to be on vacation together!

The last day my family was all leaving before our flight left so we had to rent a car in order to get to the airport. Zachary got the chance to rent the Mustang convertible at a cheap rate and just couldn't pass it up. It was fun cruising around with the top down for the day, even though Z looked like a lobster by the end of the day because he was so sunburnt!

We had such a fun time spending time with my family on such a great vacation, it was a great way to start my summer! Somehow I didn't get any pictures on here of us boogie boarding, but you better believe we went everyday! I also learned how to body surf which is really fun. We can't wait to do it again next year! I definitely don't get to see my family as much as I'd like to and I love it more than anything when we are all at the same place at the same time!

Update

2009-06-08T13:29:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I updated this blog, we are busy with life and (mostly) enjoying it! My family came to visit over Memorial Day weekend, and it was a blast to have them here. We spent a large part of the weekend up in Park City shopping, golfing (for the boys), eating, and watching movies. We missed Kristin and David but are excited to see them next week in California. Bring on the sunshine, ocean, and beaches! I am so ready for it, especially for the chance to brush up on my sweet boogie boarding skills...! Zachary and I have been keeping busy with work, using our seven peaks season passes (that's right we are total teenagers), riding our bikes, church callings, and spending time with family.

Life is good.

Zachary was way excited he was able to hit the slopes with my family while they were here. He's pretty good, don't you think?

Collin and Zachary loving on the Moose, they thought she was pretty hot.

Collin and Kendall AKA the "little kids" in our family. I seriously cannot believe how fast they are growing up, I love love love it when I get to spend time with them!

Zachary had a football game in Rexburg on Saturday so I got to spend some time with Britt and Tru, love those girls. I look delirious in this picture, but it's just because I was really happy. I love going back to Rexburg to see my favorites, if only we lived closer! Why is it that I live so far away from so many of the people I love?!

The Vegas

2009-05-12T20:37:00.000-07:00

Any OC fans out there? Remember when Cohen would call Las Vegas "The Vegas"?

I loved it.

Not the greatest picture I realize, but we didn't take many pictures, and this one was about as good as it got! We had so much fun in Vegas with our friends Guy and Amy. Somehow they hooked us up with a sweet room and we didn't have to pay anything- it definitely made the vacation better for me! We spent lots of time lounging at the pool which was amazing- I came home with a nice tan!

I suggested we go to the Mandalay Bay Aquarium, it was not a hit. Last time I suggest anything..... ha ha. I loved it, but everyone else seemed a little bored- they had some CRAZY sharks though! Look at my gangsta husband- so cool.

We also rode the ride at the top of the Stratosphere and it was SO fun (and a bit scary). I think I will have to do that one every time I go back. The rides were great and you got a great view of Vegas way up there! This was my first time going to Las Vegas when it is actually warm outside and I am much more of a fan now. Any vacation I go on where I get to lay out by a pool all day I am a total fan of!

Happy Happy Birthday

2009-05-12T20:32:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Z!!

Last week we celebrated Zachary's birthday! We had a family home evening at the park and roasted hot dogs and had cupcakes. It was so fun to be with family and celebrate Zachary. I love him so much and can't imagine life without him- one thing is for sure- it would be boring!

I love this picture, and it makes me so excited for when we have our own munchkins- he is such a good uncle- all the nieces and nephews like him way more than me ;)

the FUN never ends!

2009-05-03T20:42:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was really busy for us, and so fun. A kid in our ward plays the drums for a band and was the opening act for a Lenka concert so we got to go to that. It was so fun to go and watch Michael play and I loved seeing Lenka. She was seriously the cutest thing ever.

Here is Lenka jamming out. I felt like she was so talented. She probably played at least four different instruments that night AND she let all the little girls in the audience come up on stage to dance and sing with her- I loved that.

Z had a game in Rexburg Saturday Morning so to avoid driving an hour back to Salem on Friday night just to get up Early Saturday morning and drive back towards Salt Lake we did what anyone would do. Had a sleepover at Z's office! It was one of the funnier things we have ever done, and it was kind of scary. We watched "The Office" with a projector while we fell asleep and I totally felt like it was a slumber party. Definitely worth the 2 hour drive it saved us!

Saturday while Z played football I got to spend the whole day with my best girls!( missed ya Nat!) We did a session at the Rexburg Temple, and it was amazing. That Temple is just so beautiful. All of our lives have taken these different paths I just felt like it was so neat for us all to the in the Temple together!

After the session we had lunch at my favorite sandwich shop Millhollow. That place is divine and their frozen yogurt is the best! We got the crazy idea to put extensions in my hair, Truman has so many hidden talents! We spent the rest of the day in B's bathroom putting in extensions, it felt just like old times. I am so grateful I had these amazing roommates- whenever we are together it is like no time has passed- Sistas for life!

On the way home we got to stop in Pocatello and visit Kya and her fiance Seth. It was so fun to catch up with her, it had been way too long! We had such a fun jam packed weekend when we got home we were exhausted! Now that it is officially Summer for me I feel like it is a never ending party- next weekends adventure- Vegas! I don't really love that place, but it seems like we always go there- I am looking forward to the sunshine!

sayonara school work!

2009-04-30T20:53:00.000-07:00

So today was my last day of school. I am done until next September and feel so liberated! No more homework or tests to worry about. Although I am happy about the no school work part I am actually kind of sad school is done, being in the education program at UVU has been amazing. All of my professors are so smart and nice and funny, and all of the girls in my cohort were so great. In the education program they stick you in a "cohort" that you stay in through out the program so you have the same girls in all of your classes for the whole two years. I have learned so much from these girls-Since we have spent so much time together in class I really feel like a lot of these girls are close friends and I am for sure going to miss them this summer. The worst part is that some of them aren't even coming back next year....sad! We had a little BBQ this afternoon after class and it was so fun. I am so grateful I made the choice to finish my education. It definitely was not easy going back after taking off a year but it has been the greatest experience.

happy is what happens when all your dreams come true

2009-04-30T20:45:00.000-07:00

A few years ago Nat introduced me to the music of Wicked. I remember her having the CD in her car forever before I listened to it because I thought it was called wicked, like a candle wick....I don't know why I thought that, but I for sure thought it was weird and never wanted to listen to it. I am so glad I did because I LOVED the music- it is amazing. A few weeks ago we got to go to Wicked in Salt Lake. I loved every minute of it and it was better than I ever could have imagined. Standing in line in the freezing weather for six hours was definitely worth it!

2009-04-24T10:45:00.000-07:00

SO....about a year ago I took up bike riding. Z and I would cruise all around Salem, and I thought I was getting pretty good. Z grew up riding his bike all over and so he knows how to do a lot of fancy things like jump the curb, which for me is mostly impossible. Regardless of my curb jumping skills I was feeling pretty confident in my abilities so one day as I was leaving my sister-in-law Jamie's house I decide I am going to talk on my cell phone WHILE riding my bike- worst decision ever. I totally crashed, went flying through the air while getting tangled up in my bike. The best part is that when I finally pulled myself up off the asphalt all of these little neighborhood kids are out in their yards are laughing hysterically at me. So embarrassing, I wanted to die. The second best part was that I destroyed my phone. I did not want to pay $300 dollars (what a joke!) to replace my phone mid contract so I went to Wal-Mart and bought the $15 go phone. It is not anything special but it gets the job done for me. Well earlier this week, said phone decides not to work for three days, THREE DAYS! Have you ever gone without your phone for three days? I know I am sounding dramatic here, but it was seriously hard. There were SO many things I couldn't do; Text Google for addresses and phone numbers, call in to the local radio station to win free Taylor Swift concert tickets, pass my half hour drive to work by chatting with someone, check my voicemail, cal my classmates for help on school assignments, call Zachary to make sure he was going to be at the office for my surprise lunch visit, etc. I found myself constantly worrying that I was going to get stranded along the side of a deserted road and have no way to contact anyone. The sad thing is that I NEVER drive on deserted roads....why was I so worried I would end up stranded on one? After the three days were up and my phone decided to start working again I felt like being without a phone wasn't so bad. It was maybe even kind of nice. I still just don't get how people managed without cell phones for so long. I ask my Mom that question all the time, she says they just had to plan. Plan? What? I prefer to make them(plans) up as I go. So don't expect me to give up my cell phone, it may not be a necessity, but I love it.

My school finals are next week- hallelujah! After next Thursday I will be free as a bird for the whole summer(unless you count my job...) It has been so beautiful in Utah as of late I can't wait to spend lots of time outside playing! I just got a new calling to be the 3rd year girls camp certification leader which I am kind of freaking out about. We are having a meeting tomorrow morning and I am supposed to play a get to know you game with my YCL's, any ideas?! It should be an adventure trying to get everything together for Camp, I am sure I will learn a lot. And please don't worry that I have to scout out a 5 mile hike for the third years to go on, they seriously must not know who they are dealing with..... Where does one even begin to "scout out" a 5 mile hike to take a bunch of third year girls on. I wish I would have taken notes all those years I was in girls camp- I really LOVED girls camp when I went so I just hope that the girls will have as great of an experience as I did.

new favorite

2009-04-17T08:18:00.000-07:00

I recently purchased this face scrub from Neutrogena and love it! It has a refreshing grapefruit smell and takes care of all my dead dry skin cells (which is a must this time of year.) I feel like it makes my skin brighter and smoother. And it also has a little bit of Salicylic Acid to take care of future breakouts. Everything I could ask for.

First ever NBA game - OH Yeah!

2009-04-13T19:50:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago we went to the Jazz game. It was my first ever NBA game and I was loving every minute of it. Boozer is my fav Jazz player, but no one else there seemed to like him...I really just like the name. Nat and Colby came with us and it is always fun to go out with them. We ate at that pizza place up by the U called, "The Pie." Everyone has always raved about that place, but I didn't really love it. It was definitely total college scene.

The newly engaged couple- Yay!

And of course we celebrated Easter yesterday. Zachary knows how to put together a killer Easter basket- I just love that little bunny he rigged up to hang on the basket like that! Zachary had a football game on Saturday so I went over to the Johnsons for a little BBQ and Easter Egg Hunt. I didn't get any pics, but I just loved watching my nieces and nephews- I don't think they get much cuter than that. I always love Easter Sunday and feel like it is the official beginning of Spring. Over the past week I had been thinking a lot about the Saviors Atoning sacrifice. I am so grateful for that and know that without it nothing would be possible. I just was thinking about how grateful I am for the atonement and the ability it gives me to be sealed to Zachary. He is such an amazing husband and I can't imagine my life without him.

Sunny Sunny Florida- we miss you already...

2009-03-30T18:20:00.000-07:00

We went to Florida a week ago and it was A-mazing! So fun to get away together and be in some hot weather, but stinky to come back to SNOWING in Utah- ugh! We had a jam packed 4 days there and loved every minute of it. The first day we spent at Discovery Cove which was awesome. We snorkeled with tropical fish, stingrays, sharks and barracudas (they were behind a glass wall) and I swam with a dolphin, it was the bomb.

Posing with my dolphin Lester. He was huge, a lot larger than I was expecting. And don't worry that Lester is 40 years old, and the average life expectancy of a dolphin is 20 years. He was pretty much ancient.

The whole park was completely tropical looking with white sandy beaches, we loved laying out and just taking in all the beautiful scenery. I was a baby and wore a wetsuit for the first half of the day. I began to get tan lines that weren't attractive, so I decided to toughen up and ditch the wetsuit.

Lester taking me for a ride- best thing ever.

As you can tell I was SO excited about the dolphins.

Day two was spent at Sea World and of course we loved that too. Zachary was not happy about posing next to this manatee, but I thought it was a good photo op.

Of course one of the first things we did when we got there was go on a ride that SOAKED me! I seriously felt like I had just jumped in a lake. Zachary thought it was awesome, and me, well not so much. I was hating life.

Hence, these wonderful Sea World shorts I got to sport the rest of the day, I looked so goofy, but I was dry, and that is all that matters!

We loved the shows at Sea World, they were so fun. Zachary was going crazy with the camera taking a million pictures at the shows, I guess he just wanted to capture every moment... :)

Shamu- gotta love it.

If you know me well, you know I am a major shark fan. I just had to include this picture because I think sharks are cool, and it is just plain scary, check out those teeth!

One last Sea World shot, please, ignore the shorts.

Day three was spent at Universal Studios, and of course we loved it. It was probably our least favorite park, but we loved it still.

I hate the Simpsons, but of course it was my favorite ride there. Just couldn't pass this picture up, sorry if you think it is rude.

Love this shot.

Lucky for us there was a Collective Soul concert at Universal Studios the night we were there. Z apparently loves Collective Soul so he was loving life. I knew a few of their songs, but was mostly entertained by the singers awesome rockstar moves. He was seriously killing me, I think I could teach him a lesson or two about rockstar moves.

Our last day we just took it easy, did some shopping, and had lunch before it was time to head to the airport. We had such a great time, and you better believe I was planning our next trip to Orlando for when we have some older kiddos- that trip will be the bomb.

2009-03-17T14:13:00.001-07:00

Love Daylight savings, and LOVE that Spring has finally decided to make an appearance.

I can't wait to start shopping for some fun summer sandals like these!

Valentines

2009-02-22T13:42:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day this year was awesome. Zachary and I spent the whole day together having fun! Trafalga was one of our stops, and it was the bomb. I never knew how much I would love that place! Our favorite was the XD theatre, that was 3D and the chairs moved around with the movie, we loved it.

Next stop was MONSTER JAM! It was the greatest, and let me say there was no shortage of romance, I mean Monster Jam, come on, it is definitely Valentines Day material.

And, of course, no Valentines Day date is complete without a souvenir Monster Jam T-shirt with "grave-digger" on the front. Zachary REALLY loves me!

2009-02-13T08:19:00.000-08:00

Wishing you an early Happy Valentines Day. I hope it is lovely!

Zachary and I have been crazy busy as of late. School is taking up more time than ever for me, but I am loving all the new stuff I am learning. I can't wait to be in the classroom in a few weeks and actually put my "skills" to the test! It seems like we are constantly counting down the days until the weekend, and the weeks are just flying by! Before we know it summer will be here, Hallelujah!

A Vegas Vacation

2009-01-16T20:17:00.000-08:00

Zachary and I had a long weekend last week so we decided a quick getaway to "Fabulous Las Vegas" would be fun! It was spontaneous which I don't do well with, but we made the most of it!

(Please don't ask about our pose, I do not know what we are doing.)

Hands down my favorite thing we did was Siegfried and Roy's Dolphin and Lion Habitat at the Mirage. I could have spent hours there!

This Lion seriously growled at us, and I thought he was coming through the fence to get us. It scared us so bad, but it was hilarious!

I love, love, loved the dolphins. I used to want to be a Marine Biologist ya know, serious! After seeing the dolphins I am SO excited for our trip to Sea World in March- I can't hardly wait!

Zachary's favorite part of the trip would have to be the buffets! He just can't get enough of that crab! I think those buffets are rather sick though.

Love the Bellagio water show, it's always so amazing to me.

I was in heaven at the M&M's store- so fun! Of course I stocked up.

One of our nights we went to a Lance Burton Magic Show. The Magic show was really Zachary's favorite thing. Those illusions are crazy, I just do not understand how they get those tricks to work! It was so fun to get away together and be in some WARM weather! Until next year...

Christmas in Washington

2009-01-06T20:31:00.000-08:00

We spent our Christmas break in Washington with my family and it was wonderful. I just love being at home! We pretty much just partied 24/7 and it was a blast! The highlights of the week included going skiing (don't worry I went off some jumps), ice skating at the Stock's pond, visiting with family, PRESENTS!, and celebrating Christmas with the ones we love.

We LOVED ice skating at the Stocks pond, even if it did get a little brutal out there at times! Don't let the little guy in the front fool you, he was nutzo with snowballs!

My dad and me spending some quality time in the kitchen

We made pretzels one night and they were amazing, just like the mall pretzels, but better!

We definitley got our fill of junk food, I've been home in Utah for 2 weeks now and I am still recovering!

Despite treacherous conditions outisde we made our way over to Grandpa and Grandma Gibbons house on Christmas Eve. Don't worry, we bundled up.

Grandpa Gibbons with his Christmas Gift, I'm so grateful that my Grandpa lives so close and we get to see him often when we are in Washington.

Don't be fooled by their glam, this was Christmas Eve- Love these girls, they already make me feel like an old married - good thing I have them to keep me young and hip ;)

And what would Christmas morning be without our annual picture taken on the stairs. (Don't ask me why we continue to take this picture every year, it is NOT flattering to anyone!) My dad still likes to treat us like we are five, and no one is allowed to see the tree until the video camera is on. Oh the anticipation......

Christmas Morning

Z always loves to test out his new apparel.

Of course we had the annual Gibbons Christmas party/gift exchange. I feel like our family is getting bigger and bigger. It was so fun to see everyone's kids and catch up with them. We don't get to see eachother often enough! I just wish someone would have recorded us singing the little stockings song. The Gibbons Family has skill in the music dpt. :)

We are so blessed and so grateful for the Christmas Season.

Now it's a new year, and of course we can't have a new year without some New Year's Resolutions. We are already working hard to keep some of the goals we set, but I have a feeling 2009 is going to be a great year for the Johnsons!

2008-12-14T17:48:00.000-08:00

Last Friday my co-worker Emmalee and I decided to brave the cold and try and get some Wicked tickets! We waited in line for about 6 hours in the freezing cold but finally the ticket office opened and we just kept our fingers crossed that there would be some tickets left for us to buy! I'm glad to say that it paid off and we both got our Wicked tickets for next April, I can't wait! It was quite an experience getting the tickets, but I definitely think I would do it again!

(my favorite part about the picture above is the 40 year old man with "transitions" glasses in the background giving me bunny ears- too funny!)

Thanksgiving Weekend

2008-12-03T20:45:00.000-08:00

My family came down to Utah for the Thanksgiving break and it was so fun! We had a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner at my in-laws house, shopped, rode horses, saw the lights at Temple Square, attended the infamous Festival of Lights in Spanish Fork, and had one crazy game of Monopoly! We also had a special guest of honor, the BFF Brittani! I hadn't seen her since she has been home from her mission, and it was so great to spend some quality time with her! Thanksgiving went by way too fast, now I am counting down the days until we get to go to Washington for Christmas Break!

Good thing we had Britt with us to be our Tour Guide through SLC. This picture was taken on the TRAX, gotta love the public transportation system ( just so you know I am a total regular riding the UTA these days- funny) We all look so happy in that pic- the bus started to move unexpectedly right when the picture was snapped- priceless!

The kids loved riding horses and running around out in the fields with them. Collin kept turning to me and saying, "I thought these horses were tamed Kari!" he had a little bit of a rough ride on Little Bug.

And of course, I have to add this picture in just for good measure. My sisters are the bomb, seriously.

I am grateful for...

2008-11-25T10:50:00.001-08:00

With Thanksgiving just around the corner I have been thinking about all the things I am so grateful for in my life. I have been so blessed in so many ways, especially in the past year. My top seven things I am thankful for this year...

1. I am grateful for Zachary- Love this man- don't know where I would be without him!

2. I am grateful for my Family - Seriously, my family is the bomb- they are coming tonight and I can't wait!

3. I am grateful for my Johnson Family - My in-laws are amazing, and I am so grateful to live so close to all of them; and those nieces and nephews of mine are so stinkin' cute!

4. I am grateful for the opportunity I have to be going to school and finishing my education. I love school and the friends I have made in my classes- I just have to keep reminding myself my homework really is a blessing!

5. I am grateful for good friends and the fun times we share.

6. I am grateful for the freedoms I enjoy while living in this Country.

7. I am grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Ward I attend, and my calling to teach a Sunday School class, those 12 year olds teach me so much!

I can't wait for Thanksgiving and am SO excited to spend some much needed time with my family (wish you were coming Kristin and Dave!) We plan on doing some shopping, some 4 am shopping the day after Thanksgiving, some eating, some game playing, and lots of laughing! Hope you all have a safe and wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday!

2008-11-20T12:02:00.000-08:00

Loving these pretty necklaces from Anthro. I want ALL of them!

Pumpkin Carving

2008-11-02T12:11:00.000-08:00

We had our friends Lance and Portia over last week to carve pumpkins. Portia is one of my friends from school and I don't know what I would do without that girl in my classes- truly a lifesaver! We always have some good laughs and keep each other entertained!

All of our beautiful pumpkins- don't even worry that Zachary carved the "groovy" pumpkin with heart shaped eyes. I learned I should stick to a pattern! This was the first year that I made pumpkin seeds and they turned out so good, we can't get enough of them! A lil' birthday shout-out to my best friend Nataley who celebrates her birthday on Halloween- love you girl- hope your birthday was awesome! ;)

King of Bonkers Tree Trunks!

2008-11-02T12:03:00.000-08:00

The past two weekends we spent up at Zachary's parents cabin property clearing out these huge trees and brush! Let me just say, I am SO grateful for the modern machinery we have that can help us do this huge task! It felt good to get out in nature and do some work, and we had some fun times dreaming about our future days up at the cabin when it is all done and built!

A Trip to the Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-22T20:17:00.000-07:00

For Family Home Evening on Monday night we went to the Red Barn with all of the Johnsons (we missed you Kirk and Rachel!) It was so much fun and we made it out of there just before the sun went down. Of course we had to get some ice cream afterwards which was the bomb. I got Blueberry pie and it was delicious! I was so happy with that pumpkin that I picked out, I can't wait to carve a big jolly face on it!

All the cute kiddos. We're so glad we have our nieces and nephews to tag along with for all these activities. It just wouldn't be as fun without them! I took about 15 pictures of this pose and believe it or not, this is the best one I got!

Zachary with our cute nephew Cam. Cam forgot his shoes so Zachary was carrying him around the pumpkin patch and would tip him down to the ground head first to check out the pumpkins he thought he might want. They were quite the pair!

We had so much fun and it was so nice to spend some extra time with the family, I definitely think we will need to make this a tradition! It is so weird but I am already totally in the Christmas Spirit. I hope it's just a phase or Christmas will take forever to get here!

Does anyone know any classic Halloween movies we could rent that will get us back into the right season?

love on the inside

2008-10-06T16:09:00.000-07:00

I am lovin' this CD, and can sing along to every song. That's when you know it's good.

We had a great weekend spending time around the house. Conference weekend is always so relaxing. We loved the talks that were given and were uplifted and inspired. In between sessions Zachary taught me how to ride a dirtbike which was an adventure! I am a total pro now and ready to hit the trails, Just Kidding!

2008-09-28T15:01:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we went on a 5 hour, yes I said 5 hours(!) horseback ride up Payson Canyon, and my rear-end is still feeling the aftermath of that! Zachary was taking us to some lake, that we never made it to. Once we finally decided to stop and have lunch at this spot that was kind of a lookout point, of course we saw the lake we were trying to find way off in the distance. We were just a little off course.... It was totally worth it though because it was GORGEOUS! The leaves are all changing right now and I kept telling Zachary I was so feeling like a princess in a movie, it was just so pretty!

Of course I took a million pictures, thankfully Z was being a good sport that day. I got the best "Senior Portrait" of him that he refused to let me post, but if you need a laugh I will definitely e-mail it to you! Can you believe how pretty those colors are?!

I love where we live, we have so many beautiful places all around us. On Sunday Zachary and I went on a little motorcycle ride (another story in itself- why does he love those blasted things?!) anyways, we rode over to Mapleton, and again gorgeous everywhere. I am just lovin' this time of year!

On Friday night we went out to dinner with Zac's co-worker and his family and got to take my niece Josie along. We had a little movie night at our house after dinner, and these 2 girlies were cracking me up! Totally reminds me of when I was little and had sleepovers with cousins and friends- too cute!

SO good

2008-09-23T13:35:00.000-07:00

My new favorite snack lately is fresh cut apples dipped in carmel. Mmmmm, they are so delicious! I usually just buy the small to-go packets of carmel at the grocery store made by Litehouse, they have a low-fat one that is really good, and are great for when I am not home. I also am loving this homemade carmel sauce that my sister-in-law Jamie made last week. She was nice enough to share the recipe.

Make it, you won't be sorry.

You'll Need:

8 oz. Cream Cheese

3/4 C. Brown Sugar

1/4 C. White Sugar

1 tsp. Vanilla

1 Tbsp. Milk

Just mix it all together and enjoy!

2008-09-23T13:22:00.000-07:00

I wish I had something new and exciting to post, but I don't! Zachary and I have been busy busy lately it seems. I started school again at the beginning of this month, and I am really enjoying being back in school. It is so nice to finally be around girls my own age on a daily basis to interact with! I am really enjoying my classes and feel like I am learning such great things I will always be able to use. School has been great, but the schedule change has definitely been an adjustment. I am just grateful for an amazing husband that is always there to support me and help make my life easier any way he can. Zachary is love love loving all the football he can watch this time of year and is always reporting to me on his Fantasy Football teams. For those of you who don't know what that is, I don't understand it either and I probably participate in about 12 conversations a week about it, so don't feel bad. We have gone to a few Salem Hills High School football games and it has been fun to watch kids we know from the ward and see my Sunday School kids out and about. It definitely makes me excited for our future kids to be part of such a great school! We are definitely enjoying this cool crisp weather, I just am wanting to enjoy being outside as much as possible in the next few weeks. Pretty soon it will be too cold! Yuk!

2008-09-12T08:34:00.000-07:00

For sure this morning I woke up to Salem's High School band practicing right outside my window! Well, maybe not RIGHT outside, but it sure sounded like it! I have a feeling this is going to be a very long Football season.........

Labor Day Weekend in St. George

2008-09-03T19:00:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we headed to St. George for some family fun with the Johnsons! It was beautiful weather, and just the perfect way to end my summer! We got to spend some time at the pool swimming, hiking at Zions, shopping, playing the Wii, Scattergories ( I think Google should be outlawed!) and just loving spending some relaxing time with the family! Thanks for inviting us Ryan and Jamie, we had SO much fun!

Hiking in Zions, we couldn't have asked for more perfect weather

Zachary found a little squirrel to play with, I was just hoping it didn't bite him!

Ryan and Jamie's cute little family, love those kids!

Our little "adoptee"for the weekend :) Our little niece Andrea is such a doll we just love all the time we got to spend with her!

Riding on the tram in Zions was an interesting experience, I think we were the only Americans on board!

We took a little Sunday walk down to the golf course, these swans came right up to us, they were so pretty, but got a little feisty at times

Zachary was loving playing in the pool with Isaac and Reid, a true kid at heart! Him and his bros were quite entertaining in the pool playing football, I think they were scaring everyone away!

Zachary, Issac, and Reid in the pool

We had so much fun spending time outdoors! We are sad to see summer go, but we're excited for fall and all the fun things that come with it!

Camping Trip up Payson Canyon

2008-09-03T18:49:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we went camping with one of Zachary's co-workers and his cute little family. Let me tell you the Nielsons know how to camp! Brooke made us a delicious chicken pot pie in the dutch oven for dinner and pancakes and eggs for breakfast. I'm usually a foil dinner, or hot dog kind of girl when it comes to camping, quick and easy, but it was nice to have a cooked meal while camping. I love camping and we were glad the Nielsons could come with us!

Maisie was so cute, she kept us entertained all night!

We borrowed this air mattress from Zachary's parents and had to blow it up by mouth! It took forever, but it was worth it when the night time came! I love camping, but I am always afraid a bear is going to eat me!

Greg, Brooke & Maisie

We were so glad we got to go camping and spend a little time in the great outdoors!

Oregon Coast

2008-09-03T18:35:00.000-07:00

In August I got to go home and spend a little time with my family. We spent a little time at the Oregon Coast and then the rest of the time at home with a trip to Silverwood in there! We were definitely busy but it was SO good to be home! It is always so fun to spend time with the fam, I just wish I could live closer!

Keldon and Collin on our "small" 7 mile hike! None of us were expecting that!

This year we went to Fort Clatsop which we never have done before, it was definitely educational and interesting.
The kids found a little costume box and dressed up like Lewis and Clark and their Camp.

Kristin, Carmen and Kendall at Fort Clatsop

Here are some more pics from our hike, it was horrible we didn't bring any snacks or water, and the beach we were supposed to be hiking to never appeared! It is definitely an adventure we will remember!

Me, Kristin, and Kira

We had so much fun, I only wish Zachary could have been there! I can't wait for next year!

Fiesta Days Rodeo

2008-07-29T20:17:00.000-07:00

Last week was Fiesta Days in Spanish Fork, so of course we had to go to the Rodeo! I love love love Rodeos, they are quite possibly one of my favorite summer activities! For sure we got all cowboy'd up with the boots and belt buckles, we love to dress up any chance we get!

Josie was loving hanging out with Zachary. LOVE her, she was so fun to have there because she would get SO excited every single time a horse or bull would come out of the bucking shoots! Her faces that she can pull are total classic!

Josie was getting sick of everyone taking her pictures so I had to start bribing her with licorice! (Hope you don't mind Jo!)

The whole gang, we had so much fun at the Rodeo and were glad some of Zachary's family could come with us! We can't wait for next year!

Weekend in Park City

2008-07-24T13:53:00.000-07:00

For our Anniversary we decided to have a little weekend getaway in Park City. The funnest thing about going to Park City is that whenever I go there it reminds me of our Honeymoon so much! We spent our Honeymoon in Whistler Canada, which is just like Park City, only bigger.

We took a ride on this little trolley, and I have no idea why, but we were loving taking pictures on it!

Zachary and I probably fell over like 50 times trying to take these pictures, and I think the driver was getting really annoyed of us!

After walking up and down Main Street for which seemed like forever trying to decide where to eat we decided to eat dinner at a Piano Bar called Prime on Main Street. It was really good food, great service, and such a fun atmosphere. The guy playing the Piano was seriously jammin' out!

It was such a fun weekend and always great to just take a vacation from daily life together!

Up Up and Away!

2008-07-24T13:46:00.000-07:00

For our Anniversary we decided to go on a Hot Air Balloon Ride! I was a little nervous about it at first, but once we got up in the air it was so fun! We had to get up at 6:30 to meet our "pilot" in the Hotel Lobby, and then off we went in the vans to our launch site. At first we were feeling like it was totally lame that the balloons weren't set up and ready for us to go when we got there, but the crew put us to work helping them get the balloon up and we LOVED it! It was interesting to see how they get those things blown up and ready to go!

Zachary, such a good helper ;) He was holding the balloon kind of up and open while I was holding this HUGE-O fan down that was blowing the air into the balloon.

Once the balloon had enough air in it they started the flames, and all of a sudden the balloon went from laying on it's side to up and over, and standing straight up!

In front of our balloon basket, I was grateful to see how sturdy and thick those things were!

Up and away we go!

We got a lot of pretty pictures, with amazing scenery in the background, unfortunately I just can't post those up the nose shots of me and Zachary! It was so cool being up so high, but not really having anything around you. One thing that I did not know before we went on our little ride was that those balloons have no way of steering! They just go wherever the wind takes them! Our pilot had no idea where we were going to land, until we were landing and then he would radio his crew and they would drive to wherever we were. Of course once we landed they broke out the champagne (we opted for the Sparkling Cider obviously). It was like 9:00 AM, and everybody was going for the champage, it was killing me! Despite the champagne, it was definitely a nice relaxing beautiful way to start our day off right!

Can You Believe It!?!

2008-07-21T13:33:00.001-07:00

I sure can't! There is no way it has already been a year since that day I was sealed to my amazing husband, it can't be.......I guess it HAS been a year, but seriously, where has the time gone?

A year ago today I don't think I ever imagined or could comprehend how much I would love Zachary in a year, how happy I would be, or how great life would be. Life truly is the greatest when you are with your best friend. Zachary is loving, funny, humble, understanding, hard working, adventurous, patient, giving, and I am so grateful everyday that I have his good example to look towards. He is the BEST husband ever!

Come rain or shine, I know I can always count on Zachary for a good time, lots of laughs, and a positive attitude!

I am so grateful for a husband that continually supports me, no matter what crazy ideas I come up with!

This past year has been fabulous, and I can't wait to see what is to come in the years ahead!
Love you Z!

Maple Lake

2008-07-15T19:33:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went with our friends Luke and Ali up Payson Canyon to Maple Lake. It was so pretty up there, and once we were up there we definitely were wishing we were going to be camping over! Unfortunately no fish were caught, but it was a good time and I can't wait to go camping now!

Zachary loves to fish, he will always miss Rexburg fishing with the Snake River!

Please excuse our appearances, apparently it was a rough day! We grabbed Subway on the way for dinner, nothing quite like a sandwich in the great outdoors!

Luke and Ali came up with us, don't ask me why both of them are looking so glam, and we look like we have been through the ringer that day!

Ali and I were loving life just sitting out in our camp chairs watching the boys fish. It was SO pretty up there, and so peaceful.

Don't you just love that get up?