BriTtnEe all the TiMe

LOVE

2012-02-14T14:19:00.001-08:00

Becoming a mother has opened my heart to a different kind of LOVE, a very special LOVE that I would do anything for. I just LOVE to make Aunika smile. Gazing into her eyes as we "coo" to one another is a highlight of my day. She gives me a whole new perspective on life. I have a greater purpose now than I ever did before. I feel completely and sincerely happy.

I love my husband that's for sure. But I just cannot express the LOVE I have for Aunika. Especially as it's Valentines Day today I look back on the new adventure/adjustment my life has brought me with my daughter. It was extremely difficult for me at first. Nursing did not come easy, mostly because I never realized how much time it took. I felt bound to the couch, unable to do anything. I was her main source of survival and I found that slightly frustrating. She was constantly nursing which only exhausted me even more.

Now I am more adjusted to my new lifestyle. I understand I can still live my life normally to some extent. I am used to the idea that it doesn't just have to be about nursing. I can bond with her during that time (if she isn't constantly falling asleep) and I can even watch TV. I'm grateful that because she nurses every hour and a half, she sleeps through the night with only waking up once to nurse.

Quitting work was easy to do but hard to get used to. I knew it was the right thing for us and I am very blessed that we are able to handle it financially. At times I do LOVE being at home with my daughter, but there are other times I miss the adult social interaction and the feeling of getting things done. I was so excited to quit and stay at home that I never realized how hard it would be. I yearn for days of getting out of the house and away for a bit. I thrive to keep myself learning and feeling fulfilled.

That is why I have given myself the goal of learning to bake. So I feel like I have accomplished something, especially since I had no time to do it before. It makes my hubby happy to have something sweet to enjoy as well. So I have done it again, I baked sugar cookies for the sake of being Valentines. And speaking of Valentines, I am also grateful for my husband who made it possible for me to take a shower and did the dishes. I am grateful he tries so hard to keep me happy. He is a wonderful Husband and Father, I LOVE him dearly.

Cinnamon Rolls

2012-02-02T17:04:00.000-08:00

One of my New Years resolution is to learn how to bake (other than cookies and pizza dough which I'm already great at:). Thanks to my mama, I have received a Kitchen Aid for Christmas and would feel terrible if I didn't put it to use. They are pretty pricey to just sit there.

My first attempt at baking was bread. I actually received help from one of my wonderful neighbors with this one. She left early so I can't blame her for any mishaps. It tasted great but it ended up being a little too dense. Oh well I guess you live and you learn. I was happy though because I faced my fear with yeast.

My second attempt was today. I made myself think of an excuse to use yeast again and bake cinnamon rolls for my former co-workers tomorrow. Multiple times we had pot luck lunches and I only brought drinks (hey I was pregnant and didn't have time or energy to do anything else) so I owe it to them to do something yummy. I hope they like them. My hubby and I sure did, but maybe it was the frosting lol.

In the meantime Aunika was busy eating her fist. She just loved watching me today, she missed her usual morning nap. I didn't realize that baking actually takes all day, or maybe that's just having to take care Aunika in between.

My Brain

2012-01-22T18:05:00.000-08:00

So have you ever heard that while being pregnant, or sometimes after, that you lose 20% of your brain cells?

I think I have lost 30%! I am now able to smoothly have a conversation with an adult but I still feel like I'm not making sense. Or I feel as though I forgot what I was saying or doing. Is this real? Is pregnancy brain real or is it a myth?

I have heard that it is due to lack of sleep, I have read that as well. However I beg to differ, something has honestly happened to me. I feel "stupider" in ways but "smarter" in others:)

Smarter about raising this precious girl, it takes some thinking-right. And if I have happened to lose some, well, it was well worth it.

The Year 2011

2012-01-12T21:24:00.000-08:00

The year 2011 has brought an abundant amount of blessings to me and my family. Some of these blessings include: my pregnancy and birth with Aunika, buying a new home, vacationing to San Fransico and Chicago, and my brother coming safely home from Afghanistan.

Becoming pregnant with Aunika was the most precious blessing to us personally. She did not come easily to us. We had to seek medical help which at first I was embarrassed about. I was surprised to find that there are many other couples who also have a hard time conceiving and I learned that that was nothing to feel ashamed of. We actually became pregnant a heck of alot quicker than I thought after we received help.

Once we found we were prego, I wasn't as happy as I should have been. I actually became used to the idea of trying month after month and felt like God wasn't answering our prayers. I became bitter about it and didn't like being around children, thus making me not like being around friends with children. It took time to grow accustomed to the idea of being pregnant. It wasn't until I could actually feel her move inside of me that I became happy, and even more excited when I started buying things early on. Pregnancy wasn't the easiest for me. Many of you may know I was considered a "high-risk" pregnancy due to my heart condition. I also experienced pretty severe swelling at five weeks. I visited the MFM (maternal fetal medicine aka pregnancy specialist for high risk people) who kept close watch on me and had me work part time so that I could spend the other time at home resting with my feet up. My work wasn't to happy about that idea but somehow it worked out. Again another blessing, I still managed to keep insurance on top of that (also an additional blessing). My job didn't seem to believe in the idea of giving me a lighter load or letting me use the crutch of my swelling or pregnancy to keep me from doing things. Occassionaly I had to have co-workers step in or HR inform me that I shouldn't be doing various tasks my department was assigning me to. It was very difficult to work even if it was for part time. My job also assigned me a work load meant for a full time employee rather than part time and my responsibilities were quite stressful. Despite the stresses of work, I strived to be happy, I prayed to be happy, I tried to do things that made me happy. I had a to do list that I felt happy about each time I checked off an item. My husband was a big help through it all. Somehow that brought me peace of mind but occasionally I felt depressed when various ladies would inform me of how "Big" I look. Which by the way is something you NEVER say to a pregnant lady, even if they are. None the less, becoming prego was a blessing, and some blessings do come with adversity.

Aunika is a beautiful spirit in our home and we love her very much. Her arrival was a success with no complaints other than my scoliosis taking a huge toll on my recovery and contractions being more painful than I anticipated. There was a little surprise to having a midwife deliver my baby instead of my doctor. I was immediately okay with that because I initially went to see midwives (Which I highly recommend for a first time pregnant women to do at least the first few visits with because they answer your questions with sincerity and have the time to listen. They are also just as qualified as doctors but do not have the training to do surgery. ) but then switched to see a doctor because of the fact I was high risk. The midwife did a great job and rooted me on every step, making my deliver last six hours. I was grateful to an amazing husband who stood by my side and helped me with every little thing until I could do things on my own. Even now he helps with half the load of being a parent.

We accomplished our New Years goal we set last year and bought a home in Eagle Mountain. At one time I had told myself we would never live in Eagle Mountain because how far it was away from the freeway. It was quite hilarious and ironic I said that, because I'm the one that gave in and now love where we are located. I'm also one who graduated from a small town in the middle of no where.

We are blessed with friendly neighbors who care. Our whole community is involved in each others lives and organizes various activities; there is a Ladies Night Out, Book Club, play groups, Christmas Caroling, Food Drives, and project night newly founded by yours truly. All these events are things I have prayed for to help me grow accustomed to being a new stay at home mother and wife. It is such a blessing to have a home and stay at home with things to give me an outlet.

Vacationing to Chicago and San Fransico is something that may be no surprise to some. We do vacation at least once or twice every year. But then again we were two career driven individuals who had no children. I don't think we'll be vacationing much longer, or at least as often for a while. And as far as viewing vacationing as a blessing, we should. Who is to say as the "last days" approach us anyone would afford vacationing. Being able to vacation alone is a blessing and one I greatly cherish. I have lived in Utah my whole life and I needed to get out and see the rest of the world or states for that matter:)

Some of you may know that my brother is currently serving in the Army Reserve. He came safely home from Afghanistan in October after being there for a year. It was a miraculous blessing and something we all looked forward to. We all had the privilege to meet him at the airport base and watch many of them welcomed home by many other family , friends, and even the news. Unfortunately not everyone in that troop came home. My brother served as a combat engineer clearing the area of bombs. He left as a private coming home as a coronal. I will keep this brief, I don't want to publicly announce what my brother has been through. However my family is truly grateful to him for his service.

Though the year 2011 brought an abundant amount of blessings to my family I am truly grateful for the blessings we continue to receive on a daily basis. I will try my best to keep you all updated with the events of our little Aunika and what is going on in our lives. Please stay tuned and thank you if you managed to make it through this long novel:)

Happy Belated New Year!!

2010-12-25T03:41:00.001-08:00

So it has been a while since I have last posted and I thought I would at least wish you all a Merry Christmas and provide you with a poem that touches home to my family at this time of year.

T'WAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS,

HE LIVED ALL ALONE,

IN A ONE BEDROOM HOUSE,

MADE OF PLASTER AND STONE.

I HAD COME DOWN THE CHIMNEY,

WITH PRESENTS TO GIVE,

AND TO SEE JUST WHO,

IN THIS HOME, DID LIVE.

I LOOKED ALL ABOUT,

A STRANGE SIGHT I DID SEE,

NO TINSEL, NO PRESENTS,

NOT EVEN A TREE.

NO STOCKING BY MANTLE,

JUST BOOTS FILLED WITH SAND,

ON THE WALL HUNG PICTURES,

OF FAR DISTANT LANDS.

WITH MEDALS AND BADGES,

AWARDS OF ALL KINDS,

A SOBER THOUGHT,

CAME THROUGH MY MIND.

FOR THIS HOUSE WAS DIFFERENT,

IT WAS DARK AND DREARY,

I FOUND THE HOME OF A SOLDIER,

ONCE I COULD SEE CLEARLY.

THE SOLDIER LAY SLEEPING,

SILENT, ALONE,

CURLED UP ON THE FLOOR,

IN THIS ONE BEDROOM HOME.

THE FACE WAS SO GENTLE,

THE ROOM IN DISORDER,

NOT HOW I PICTURED,

A TRUE AMERICAN SOLDIER.

WAS THIS THE HERO,

OF WHO'M ID JUST READ?

CURLED UP ON A PONCHO,

THE FLOOR FOR A BED?

I REALISED THE FAMILIES,

THAT I SAW THIS NIGHT,

OWED THEIR LIVES TO THESE SOLDIERS,

WHO WERE WILLING TO FIGHT.

SOON ROUND THE WORLD,

THE CHILDREN WOULD PLAY,

AND GROWNUPS WOULD CELEBRATE,

A BRIGHT CHRISTMAS DAY.

THEY ALL ENJOYED FREEDOM

EACH MONTH OF THE YEAR,

BECAUSE OF THE SOLDIERS,

LIKE THE ONE LYING HERE.

I COULDN'T HELP WONDER,

HOW MANY LAY ALONE,

ON A COLD CHRISTMAS EVE,

IN A LAND FAR FROM HOME.

THE VERY THOUGHT BROUGHT,

A TEAR TO MY EYE,

I DROPPED TO MY KNEES,

AND STARTED TO CRY.

THE SOLDIER AWAKENED,

AND I HEARD A VOICE,

"SANTA DON'T CRY,

THIS LIFE IS MY CHOICE;

I FIGHT FOR FREEDOM,

I DON'T ASK FOR MORE,

MY LIFE IS MY GOD,

MY COUNTRY, MY CORPS.."

THE SOLDIER ROLLED OVER,

AND DRIFTED TO SLEEP,

I COULDN'T CONTROL IT,

I CONTINUED TO WEEP.

I KEPT WATCH FOR HOURS,

SO SILENT AND STILL,

AND WE BOTH SHIVERED,

FROM THE COLD NIGHT'S CHILL.

I DID NOT WANT TO LEAVE,

ON THAT COLD, DARK, NIGHT,

THIS GUARDIAN OF HONOR,

SO WILLING TO FIGHT.

THEN THE SOLDIER ROLLED OVER,

WITH A VOICE SOFT AND PURE,

WHISPERED, "CARRY ON SANTA,

IT'S CHRISTMAS DAY, ALL IS SECURE."

ONE LOOK AT MY WATCH,

AND I KNEW HE WAS RIGHT.

"MERRY CHRISTMAS MY FRIEND,

AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT."

This poem was written by a peacekeeping soldier stationed overseas and requested:

PLEASE. WOULD YOU DO ME THE KIND FAVOR OF SENDING THIS TO AS MANY PEOPLE AS YOU CAN? CHRISTMAS WILL BE COMING SOON AND SOME CREDIT IS DUE TO ALL OF THE SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN FOR OUR BEING ABLE TO CELEBRATE THESE FESTIVITIES. LET'S TRY IN THIS SMALL WAY TO PAY A TINY BIT OF WHAT WE OWE.

MAKE PEOPLE STOP AND THINK OF OUR HEROES, LIVING AND DEAD, WHO SACRIFICED THEMSELVES FOR US, PLEASE, DO YOUR SMALL PART TO PLANT THIS SMALL SEED.

My small part is typing this poem to share to you all. As my last day at work before my Christmas break, I attended a luncheon with fellow co-workers talking of Christmas plans. I began to weep because going home for this Christmas meant no brother to share the memories with and I became sad with fearing the unknown of what is going on over there. I feared for his safety and loneliness from family. I felt emptiness for my only sibling off at war.

Earlier that day I had talked to a mother at work from one of the pre schools I am over who asked me what my Christmas plans were. I told her of a family party we have each Christmas Eve and then smirked that this Christmas we won't be doing much because my brother is off in Afghanistan.

She then cried to me explaining that her family does nothing to celebrate but that she is okay with that. She is okay because she is happy to be with her children and create her own memories. She is a single mother who struggles with the basic necessities to provide her children let alone presents from Santa this year. The mother cried tears of joy expressing her thanks to me for the soldiers who fight for our freedom to celebrate Christmas and to enjoy peace and happiness. She was happy to live in a place so free where she doesn't have to worry for her children's safety. She was so grateful and apologized for weeping but I then explained to her that I was grateful she said what she did and that I didn't realize that before. I said that I would remember to share with my family to not be sad this Christmas. but to be happy because the soldiers would want you to. They are fighting for our freedom to celebrate how we please.

As a sister of a soldier I can only imagine how it feels to be a wife or a mother. I have not felt remorse until that moment on the luncheon table. I am now okay knowing of what I shared with you and I hope you all have a Merry Christmas knowing of the sacrifice that is being made for your freedom to celebrate.

San Diego Trip-Farewell Soldier

2010-10-03T18:40:00.000-07:00

San Diego is a great vacation spot my family loves to visit. We have been there at least six times together over the last several years. This particular trip though was the first time we have been on vacation all together since my brother and I have been married.The purpose of this vacation was to have fun before we sent my brother off to Afghanistan. He isn't leaving until the 7th of this month but he had training in July, so we had to plan the vacation for sometime in June.

Sea World tends to be our favorite adventure in San Diego and since Matt and my sister-in-law had never been there, we decided to take the trip. I was a bit worried at first how we would all manage to have a good time with the new additions in our family, however it didn't turn out as bad as I thought. Granite I didn't get to spend as much time with my brother as I wanted to. It is funny how life changes and things aren't the way they used to be. I don't know what's normal when it comes to the relationships you are supposed to have with your siblings, but for those of you who don't know, he is my only sibling and we are four years apart. I tend to criticize myself a bit too much sometimes but I have a hard time feeling completely close to him or like I am a good enough sister. He likes to remind me of the times I used to be so mean to him when we were little. Other than that we do not have much to say to one another. We are so different from each other.

For some reason I thought going on vacation would allow for the old times to kick in and for us to grow closer. He was busy with his own family and having fun with them but how could I blame him. I did get to enjoy my nieces in the meantime and went out to dinner with my brother and sister-in-law once without my parents. Otherwise we all ate dinners together each night and usually went our separate ways when we arrived at a location.

We ended up going to Sea World, the beach, and the San Diego Zoo as a family. You might have noticed from my earlier post about the photography, that Matt and I managed to hit up Balboa Park before we left for home.

One of my favorite parts of the trip was at Sea World during the Shamu show. At the beginning of the show they invited all the soldiers to stand up and thanked them for serving our country. Of course you know my brother is in the army, so he stood up to be honored. Generally speaking, Sea World respected soldiers quite a bit; they let his whole family get in free. It was great to see him stand up and be honored in a place that he used to come to as a little boy and loved. I was sad I didn't get to see his face, as I was sitting behind him, but it did make me proud of him.

To let you know a little more about what my brother is doing in the army, here is what I can tell you. He drives a huge buffulo truck to find bombs or mines in Afghanastan. He was ranked in the higher division according to his IQ test, sharp shooting skills, and the first to be on scene. So you can see how I am a little worried about him and his safety. It makes it even more difficult to see him leave considering that I feel like I am not the best sister and we aren't as close as I would like to be. But I am confident that in time, as we grow older and experience more in life, my brother and I will find more in common and will build a stronger bond. For those who are willing, I would really appreciate it that you remember my brother and his beautiful little family in your prayers. It's a difficult time for my family and especially for his wife and two girls, but with many heartfelt prayers offered on his behalf, I know God will protect him while he is in Afghanistan. Thank-you!

San Diego Photography

2010-09-14T08:18:00.000-07:00

Thanks to friends around me, I am once again inspired by photographs and wanted to post some of Matt's and I (mostly mine, wink, wink) photography of when went to San Diego in July. I will be posting more about it later because of the sentimental stories behind the vacation but I thought I would give you a sneak preview by showing some of San Diego highlights.

Balboa Park

San Diego Zoo

California

Sea World

Camping Over July 24th

2010-09-12T15:29:00.001-07:00

Now that the official title of this blog includes my name, it wouldn't be fair to Brittnee nor maintain the accuracy of this blog if I didn't actually write something. So, for my first installment, I'll talk about our camping trip with our friends Darrell and Amanda to a town near Price.

The camping trip took place over the July 24th weekend. Who needs more fireworks when you can go camping, right? As it turns out, Amanda has more than 500 acres (correct me if I'm wrong Amanda) in the family name. On some of the land Amanda's father planted hay and installed huge sprinkler systems with Darrell's help. The other acres were basically unoccupied and open to our choosing. Darrell and Amanda chose the spot. To me it felt like our own private island without any nearby water. It was a shaded spot in the eaves of a hanging rock. It reminded Brittnee of Pride Rock from Lion King, but for me it was just fun to climb and even attempt some rock jumping.

It took us several attempts to back up the pop-up trailer into position and raise it up fully, but Darrell and I managed to complete that task without too big of a knock on our masculinity. By the time camp was ready, it was already getting darker, so the girls cooked our tin foil "hobo" dinners over the camp fire. The rest of the night included typical camping fare - smores and campfire stories. Then it was off to bed in the pop-up trailer (my first experience with that and I must admit it beats sleeping in a tent).

Early the next morning, Brittnee woke me up because nature was calling her name and women for some reason can never do their duty alone when it's dark out. After breakfast, we all went shooting Darrell's guns at homemade targets near an old homestead that Amanda's great grandfather built and lived on to claim the land. We shot a 22 rifle, which was much lighter than I anticipated. We also shot three other hand guns: a 9mm, 22 pistol, and a 380 pistol. My favorite was the 9mm pistol. The pistol was small enough to fit inside the palm of your hand, but gave a big kick for a small gun.

Around midday or so, we went on a few good hikes to some great lookouts over the valley below. Unfortunately it was so bloody hot that we had to cut the hike short and tried to cool off by playing Phase 10 in the shade of the canopy. Half way through the game and 10 million bottles of water later, we were still hot and sweaty, so we went into town for some cold drinks and more ice and to visit Amanda's dad. If you don't quite understand how hot it was yet, look at the photo of Darrell and Amanda's dog Yoko. She chose to roll in the mud to cool off. I thought about following her example, but opted out and stood under the sprinklers instead. Boy did they do the trick!

On our last evening we roasted hot dogs over the campfire, went on a few short hikes, took pictures of the full moon, lit leftover sparklers from our wedding, and watched as each of us transformed into werewolves. Ok not really, but just checking to see if you were still reading. So all in all it was a fun weekend getaway camping trip to a new spot with good friends. Thanks Darrell and Amanda!

Matt Turned 30!!!!!!!

2010-08-29T19:25:00.000-07:00

To fully understand the extent of Matt's 30th birthday we would have to fill you in on details from a few years back. Matt was the sort of guy who loved to throw parties, dj the parties, come up with creative and unique ways to throw the party, and on occasion he loved to be the center of attention. Everyone loved his parties.... A few birthdays ago Matt had told me that for his 30th he wanted a big birthday bash. I on the other hand dread birthday parties. I would be so scared that no one would show up and I'd hate it. So I remembered that as his 30th birthday approached we would have to round up what friends we have and throw him a party.

As Matt's 30th got closer, Matt got weirder. All of the sudden he didn't want a birthday party. He was concerned that no one would show up. He became shy and introverted and I bacame the extroverted party thrower. We had major plans of projecting a movie in the park as it got dark and having a concession stand with popcorn and candy available. We wanted to have a BBQ and do brats, watermelon, and soda. Matt loves playing sports outdoors so we wanted to play Bocce Ball, Volley Ball and Croquet. I even got a little too carried away with the whole idea and wanted to do a raffle.

Well I sometimes like to plan big but have a hard time following through with all of it when I don't have my little party animal (Matt wink wink) with me to make it exciting. I had to beg him two weeks before to keep the plans of having a party and we both agreed that it would better to keep it more low key. When all was said and done it turned out pretty cool. We managed to play one game of Volley Ball and eat all of Matt's favorite summertime food. We did bring a projector ready to play The Empire Strikes (Matt's favorite movie from his birth year) but we ended up watching it at our house with Darrell and Amanda because it didn't even get dark until 10:00. It was so nice to see what support we had when we didn't think we would have any.

Dave is teaching his masterful skills of BBQing to Matt

Busy being the last one to enjoy his B-day food

Joseph (friend from Matt's old ward), me, Matt, and Devan (Matt's college friend)

Matt Housley and Dallin (Matt's childhood friends)

Bethany and Dane (old visiting teacher and friends of mine)

Jason and Christian (our friends from the ward)

Darrell and Amanda (our old neighbors and good friends)

Matt, Dave, and Chad (good friends of mine and now Matt's :)

I forgot to mention Devan played some awesome music and was our personal dj

Karissa and her boy toy (my cousin)

The group, plus Traie and Austin (didn't get a picture of you guys sorry)

There you have it, Matt is officially 30 and we managed to have a great birthday BBQ. We will never again throw another ha ha.

I'm Back

2010-08-22T21:05:00.000-07:00

After much debate and some time off from blogging, I decided to return and continue to write in my blog with a slite change. This time my blog will be more like a journal. It will include more of my husband and his activities with possible entries from him. So in other words the blog is now officially about the Schramer Family rather than just about me.

Continuing where I left of in March, our next adventure took place in April- a weekend getaway to St. George. We attended the Medieval Festival but unfortunately my camera died the first half hour we got there and I wasn't able to get photos of jousting. We did however get video, that was pretty rad.

I discovered I really enjoy archery and did fairly well for my first time. But of course only the type of archery that takes place in medieval times and not the modern way of hunting. I then almost lost my super nice camera to a palm reader who insisted that my husband could not watch my reading and said that I will die at the age of 75.

On our way home we stopped at Bryce Canyon which happened to be our very first time visiting. I recommend staying for more than a half day.

This looks like a castle or a temple. Which do you think?

This is the first of many summer trips that I need to catch you up on. Stay tuned for more.

Break or Farewell?

2010-03-20T22:28:00.000-07:00

I can't recall how many times I log onto my blog and just sit and stare at what to inform the public with. I am so caught up with work, spending time with my husband, gym, housework, and other obligations I hardly have time anymore.

I sit and look at other blogs but my mind just goes blank on what to do or say with my own blog. Besides I envy those who have more than two comments or any I can't seem to get very many. I tend to think often blogging is more facinating to others if I were to be blogging about my kids, which isn't in the picture quite yet. My husband tells me not to take it personal but that blogs are more for yourself as a personal journel.

However I think I have come to the decision that I am going to either take a break from blogging for a while until I have more time and things to say or bid you farewell. I truly enjoy catching up with your blogs and seeing what you are up to, I shall continue to do so from time to time.

Thank you much to those who have or does visit:) Here is an old photo of Matt and I when were dating back in October 2007.

Book Club

2010-02-28T17:29:00.000-08:00

I have recently joined a book club in which I am so stoked about. I am happy I had a friend who even thought of inviting me to one, I love reading!! Though to some, I may seem to be less opinionated I actually have plenty to say. Most times I'm just not the type to speak up or am afraid of confrontation. But go me! I'm sharing my opinions more and more no matter who agrees with them or not.

Anyhow the book we read this month was called "Left to Tell," which is about the Rwandan Holocaust and the hatred between the Hutus and the Tutsis. The Holocaust is such an interesting topic to me, so intriguing. The concept of involving God in the picture of a Holocaust and that someone of such great faith could go through something so devastating and can actually forgive afterward, just boggles my mind. It was a great pick for my first non fiction. Yes people, my first (well except for "A Child Called It"-which is also great, and some other book about Sacajawea).

If you haven't read "Left to Tell," I highly recommend that you do! You may not enjoy the details of what happens but in the end it's true to life, it's reality, sometimes we just have to know.

Video Games

2010-01-28T13:53:00.000-08:00

Lately I have been thinking a lot about TV and Video Games. The reason why is because it has been so prevalent in our world today. Playing video games and watching TV is how most Americans spend their leisure time. I am against these activities if they are chosen too often, unless done in moderation and here are my reasons why I disagree with them.

First of all my father did not allow my brother and I to watch too much television. We never even had cable, and video games in my house were pretty limited. We had to do our chores and make sure things were done before we could play. I honestly recall it wasn't very much that we played any video games or watched TV. Besides my brother and I would usually choose to be in our rooms doing things, playing with friends, or playing outside with each other. Of course when my brother got older he was into video games, but that slowly changed when he found his sweet heart and started his own family. I on the other hand continued my habit of not playing video games as much, and only watching television on occasion. During my college years I did not have time for those things, so seldom did them as well. Because I was not used to watching a lot of TV or playing video games I continue to be that way even in married life.

Secondly I am pretty familiar with the statistics of how excessive amounts of TV and video games can negatively affect children in the long run. There are many articles that state that aggressive behavior is linked to violent video games. Just do the research if you aren't familiar with it and you'll find out the same thing. Sure there are arguments from both sides on the matter, however I find that in most of the cases like the Columbine story, they have been found to be addicts of violent video games. Now some may say video games are not the cause and that might be true. Maybe violent video games are not the direct cause of violent acts in real life, but they could easily influence such behavior and are most likely contributing factors. To be fair I have also learned there are now more video games and television shows where children can learn their ABC's and can be considered beneficial or productive entertainment where you can learn while you play. But isn't there a line, that if crossed, becomes obsessive or just plain too much or too often? Television and video games aren't babysitters and can't replace parents or family time. I understand that a balanced life is important and playing video games or watching TV is a normal part of leisure time or a way to relax, but shouldn't there be a limit?

Finally I come to my point of why I am bringing this up and it's because not only do I see children watching and playing more video games, I see adults as well. This site I found interesting http://wellness.blogs.time.com/2009/08/18/playing-too-many-video-games-is-bad-for-you-too-grown-ups/. I have a few people that come to mind who are adults and I wonder might be addicted to video games. I have friends that play video games everyday or every week and if I want to get together with them I have to join them in their video game playing. Sure they have the right to do as they please, but why do we always have to get together for that reason, isn't there anything else we can do?? I also have a brother in law who every time we get together with him we have to play video games. Even as a guest at our house over Christmas he gets the video games started. I don't see him very often and when I do see him, we play video games, so it would be nice for a change, to get to know him better other than through video games. I don't mean to speak unkindly of them at all, I am just wondering why does the world find television and video games so exciting. Why does it take up most of their leisure time??

I hope you don't consider me a hypocrite, because don't get me wrong, I have my days set aside where I have my TV watching and occasionally play non violent video games with my husband. I just get on my soap box over people who only do those two activities in their spare time. Life is so rewarding and there is so much to do other than to waste it on media. I understand winter can be tough for some but honestly, there are plenty of other healthy and entertaining alternatives.

Am I alone in this way of thinking? Does anyone feel like I'm too old fashioned? I know there is research out there that says to keep life healthy and limit these things but why doesn't that seem to phase some people? Can someone please help me understand this? My purpose in writing this post is to promote a worth while discussion on a topic that has been on my mind for awhile. Please let me know if any of you have anything to say, no matter if you disagree or agree with me.

Photo Holder

2010-01-28T13:20:00.000-08:00

When I told my co-worker what I had made my sister-in-law for Christmas she gave me the retarded look ( the look that says: why in the crap would you decorate a shoe to hold your photos) but of course she didn't mean to react that way. Instead she simply said, "you should show me a photo of it." I haven't got the chance to show her a photo of my shoe but instead to give myself justice I am showing you guys my creative attempt at making a shoe photo holder.

If your interested I can tell you how I made it, other than that just know I am a fan of modge podge! Maybe some other day I will post my other attempts of being crafty and how I do them. I have a few successes to show off :)

What I got for Christmas...

2010-01-05T20:12:00.000-08:00

a new zOOm lens-nikon 55-200 mm.

Funny thing is, I have been waiting for a new zoom lens for ages now, and I 'm not exactly sure how excited I am about it. For those of you who don't know one of my hobbies is photography. I don't know if it's just me but after waiting for so long the excitement kind of dies down, or maybe it was because I haven't been taking photos for a while. My interest in photography has also faded this past year partially because my camera had a red streak across all my photos and we had to send it back to Nikon to fix it so that took a couple of months just to get that going. Another reason could be because I was starting to get bored with my technique/style. I need to learn more about photography and I usually stink with taking photos of people. However, I think I didn't do too shabby this time. Keep in mind I usually don't make any adjustments in photo shop. These are "as is" natural amateur photographs.....most times :)

Well my friend Marcus had a great idea of posting some of his best photos of this past year, so I am going to copy his idea. Here are some more photos I have taken the year of 2009, taken with my Nikon D4ox and with it's normal 18-55 mm lens.

Taken in May at a sixth grade tie-dying activity in Orem, Utah

All three photos taken somewhere in Salt Lake City, Utay in June

Festival of Colors in Spanish Fork, Utah, taken in April

Pow-wow taken at Liberty park on July 24th in Salt Lake City, Utah

Taken on July 24th (Pioneer Day) at Liberty park in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Crab catchers from Ilwaco Port, Washington, taken in August

Loomis Lake, Washington, taken in August

These two photos were taken at the Salt Lake Temple, and of course taken in the month of December, it was hard to get good photos with all the people and no tri-pod.

BuLL S@#$

2009-12-21T10:48:00.001-08:00

No really guys, I really did ride a bull. I was going so fast, and at least lasted one minute, you can barely tell it's me.

Matt really did climb to the very top in a blink of an eye,

and I really did see SANTA and Mrs Claus at the DOLLAR STORE, I went to go get my picture with them but they were to busy telling a little girl how to be better to her mommy.

Nutcracker

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

I have finally seen the Nutcracker with my dear mother who made it possible for me to go! I can't believe that it's taken me this long to see such a classic Christmas tale, but I haven't really been the kind of person to enjoy the ballet. I'm still not that kind, but it was definitely worth seeing. We saw it at the Capitol Theater in downtown Salt Lake.

I'll have to admit the Plum Fairy put me to sleep with all her dancing. It is beautiful but really lengthily. I tend to like the guy dancers the most, the one in groups, they seem to have a bit more spunk into their dancing. I was a little disappointed with the land of sweets and not seeing any sweets. For some reason I imagined a candy land with soldiers drumming. I did not see any soldiers drumming. It could be different versions or something just made up in my head every time I thought of the "Nutcracker."

However, seeing all the foreign celebration dances were entertaining, especially the Chinese with their umbrellas and the Russians with that famous dancing in a squat position (no idea what it was called). And of course I can't help but thinking the winter land of snow was exquisite. Most of the costumes and props were amazing as well. Like I said, you have to see it at least once.

Has anyone else seen it, am I the last one to see it? What do you think of it?

Michaels Photo Entry - Snowman Hat

2009-12-07T17:46:00.001-08:00

Michaels Photo Entry - Snowman Hat

Posted using ShareThis

Birthday Clues

2009-11-29T16:42:00.000-08:00

As I wake up I walk down the heart filled stairs to the table with a quick breakfast of hot cocoa and a pop-tart and a clue card that reads.

Clue 1: Happy 26th Birthday! My love for you is 26 times greater than it was when I first met you.

Expect nature's beloved creations to give you a head start today.
-the clue above prepared me for a surprise-pink and yellow flowers with a Happy Birthday balloon attached with another clue card was brought by my husband to my work with a Wendy's meal for lunch.

Clue 2:I will love you until the last flower fades. (Look closely at all the flower to find one that's different.)
- the different flower was a fake flower hidden among the others, meaning that he will love me always.

Before you can treat yourself my love, click your heels together three times and say "There's no place like home." Now obey yourself and go home.
- I go home and we then drive up to Salt Lake to dine while in the car I pull the visor down and out falls rose petals and a clue card.

Clue 3: Your fragrance is always so divine, so you have no need for a shower, but as long as I live I will shower you with love...and ocassionally with rose petals,

All you asked for was a new adventure and a change of scenery in our dining experience, so prepare to eat at the Fratelli Ristorante.
-The waiter collects our plates another clue is placed under the plate and I notice it right off for he wasn't very sly with this one. It reads:

Clue 4: For all the times I didn't listen to you, I apologize, but may I redeem myself with one instance where I do listen.
-he shows he is listening to me by asking how my day went and the fact that he took me to an Italian place showed he was also listening.

Now that our hunger is satisfied and our thirst quenched, let the after dinner entertainment begin at the Movies.
- We then watch "This is It" because he knows I'm a fan and always wanted to see a concert of M.J.

Clue 5: Let your birthday blues disappear and let the festivities begin, because I love you too much to let you down.

Your birthday is not complete with one traditional surprise ready and waiting at home.
- I was so glad it wasn't a surprise party waiting for me at home, I was telling him my fear of people throwing me one and either no one showing up or only a few to make it uncomfortable. But instead it was a yummy chocolate cake he bought with candles that he privately sang to me himself. He knew how much I was dreading my B-day this year!

Clue 6: Of course I couldn't let your birthday pass without giving you a gift to open. It's a small way to show you I care
- We already bought my gift two weeks ago on a shopping spree. It was a dress with jewelry so criminy, he always goes all out. I got stress relief arhoma therapy lotion and body wash.

Is there more in store form Brittnee on her birthday? Go upstairs when I call for you and see if there is.
- Awh what a great way to end the evening in a nice and stress-free bath

OF course that isn't all, he manages to get ahold of my girlfriends and sets up a surprise dinner after work the following day. He told me to meet him at Chili's but low and behold he wasn't there it was a few of my good friends. I could have killed him!

Calling all fRieNdS!!!

2009-11-06T19:49:00.000-08:00

Dear Friend,

I'm am feeling very needy lately and need some attention. I think my new job might have something to do with it. Basically my job is to help those in need (fifty families, can you not tell me that's a lot!) who struggle financially with the lack of resources and to connect them to what they may need. I listen to them and care about them and get pulled in many directions for what is demanded of me.

I need to hear your love and concern, can you either leave comments or write me a letter please. I value friendships I hold, it keeps me sane :) Feel free to leave a comment, joke, or do whatever friends do best.

Much love,

Brittnee S.

2009-11-01T09:44:00.001-08:00

Our "Killer" Halloween Party was themed around the game "Clue" and death. We did our own live version of "Clue" where people had to go look around our house for the clues-and yes some of them were hidden quite well. No this is not similar to the "Murder Mystery" game. Matt and I put our two heads together for the introduction story, each character, and their plot of how they could have killed the victim. Each character's name and story was inspired by our guests costumes and the "Clue" game board was still used but with real weapons.

PLEASE TELL ME WHAT YOU THINK

HALLOWEEN CLUE

A Death Decree at 43

Hamilton Alexander, the 43-year-old millionaire and owner of the Willow Creek Resort is found dead on Hollow’s Eve before giving his special announcement at a banquet in the dining room.

Prior to building the rustic Willow Creek Resort, Mr. Alexander made his first fortune as a New York stock broker. Years later, for a change of pace, Alexander traded the New York skyscrapers for the Rocky Mountains of Utah. He spent his days exploring the mountains and the great outdoors and his nights socializing in the most exclusive night clubs and ritzy hotels. In no time, Alexander became one of the most well-connected and influential men in all of Utah.

It was during this time Hamilton Alexander formed a planning committee of prestigious men and women to build the Willow Creek Resort. The Willow Creek Resort was an instant success and praised by the press, critics, and travelers alike. Most of the original members of the committee also stayed on as the acting board of directors. Mr. Alexander practically became a millionaire overnight and was the majority shareholder of a Fortune 500 company.

By the time Alexander celebrated his 40^th birthday he was financially cushioned for life. In fact, on the night of his extravagant birthday party, rumors were spread that he might be soon retiring to commence an around the world trip in his hot air balloon. These rumors surfaced from the party and were discussed by the board of directors in the penthouse suite. There was only one problem - Alexander was not present for these discussions. So the topic soon changed from harmless plans for the future to dangerous schemes and plotting.

Nothing came of the penthouse discussions and they were eventually forgotten . . . or so it seems. Three years later, Alexander invited everyone to a grand banquet for a special announcement regarding the future of the Willow Creek Resort. The entire board of directors was in attendance as were close relatives, friends, associates, exclusive guests, and the press.

The announcement was scheduled for 6pm sharp, but the ever-punctual Alexander didn’t show. When his personal assistant went to investigate, Alexander’s dead body was discovered. He had been brutally murdered.

Suspects

King Kong

Kong, the misunderstood and beastly man, is a former friend and stock broker colleague to Mr. Alexander. On days Kong and Alexander teamed up on the floors of NYSE, they were generally victorious and remained the closest of friends. Otherwise they were vicious rivals with Kong often the bitter loser. These early loses formed a cycle of jealousy that burrowed up inside Kong. Still they remained friends until Alexander made his first million on the Willow Creek Resort. Rather than congratulate Alexander, Kong pounded his chest in fury and never spoke with him again. On the night of the murder, he was last seen watching TV in the Living Room.

Ann Darrow

Ann Darrow, niece to the late Hamilton Alexander and daughter to his sister, Margaret, is the only one out of Margaret’s seven children who stays in contact with their uncle. After Margaret was diagnosed with breast cancer and couldn’t afford treatment, Darrow pleaded with her Uncle Alexander to contribute, but he coldly refused. So, Darrow quit college and worked full time to care for her mother. From that point on, Darrow vowed that she would find a way to pay for her mother’s expensive treatment even if it required drastic measures. On the night of the murder, she was last seen closing the door of the Bathroom.

Chuck Lee

Chuck Lee is tough as nails, a health nut, patriotic, is always in control, and has lightning fast reflexes. Lee excelled at everything he did and was thus honored with countless accolades and awards. His first public recognition was in the Air Force, then in Martial Arts, which he later went on to master and start his own training camp. Lee was also influential in politics and the media. Alexander recognized Lee’s power and influence, so he hired him as an advisor and spokesperson and put him on the board of directors. Lee fulfilled his duties faithfully until suddenly he was fired without warning. Lee went on to have a successful career as an actor and karate trainer, but his friendship with Alexander was scarred for life. Lee was last seen at the computer in the Study.

Dottie Cheshire

Dottie Cheshire is a mischievous woman who used her trickery and slight of hand to get the dirty facts and hard news. Unbeknownst to her interviewees, Cheshire conned her way to the top as a reporter and news writer. Her career flourished and soon all the top news agencies were battling over who would have Cheshire as their ace reporter. The New York Times won the bidding duel and Dottie’s first assignment was an expose of Mr. Hamilton Alexander. Naturally, Alexander accepted the interview since it would only bring him more into the limelight. To everyone’s surprise, Cheshire’s article was a scathing review of the ugly side of Alexander. But Alexander would not be undone – he used his affluence and tarnished Cheshire’s name by saying she was a pathological liar and con artist. Promptly, Cheshire was fired and had trouble finding gameful employment ever since. Cheshire was last seen arranging something in the closet of the Guest Quarters.

Mr. Butterfly Catcher

Butterfly Catcher, with his obsessive mentality and sarcastic wit is a disgruntled guest of the Willow Creek Resort. During his time of good standing with the resort, Catcher was a frequent guest and one time VIP member. Catcher even met Alexander in person at a private party held at one of the penthouse suites. They both swapped adventure stories from their travels and shared their collections with each other. Alexander had rare collections of insects while butterflies were Catcher’s specialty. During this “Show and Tell” Catcher noticed Alexander had a Palos Verdes Blue butterfly, the rarest known to man. When mysteriously that rare butterfly disappeared from Alexander’s collection, Catcher was accused of stealing and escorted off the premise. Some say Catcher did steal it, some say he didn’t. The actual truth is yet to be revealed. Catcher was last seen reading in the Study.

Vanessa Mariposa

Mariposa is considered by most a woman of great fortune and luck, although slightly erratic in nature. Born in Spain, raised in France, and an immigrant into North America, Mariposa didn’t completely evolve into the refined lady she is today until she landed in North America. Mariposa’s true claim to fame came from her premonitions of future disasters or triumphs. She gained the attention of TV networks, the press, political leaders, and even Hamilton Alexander. They teamed up on the stock market to make a fortune and again on the Willow Creek Resort. Sadly, Mariposa was never recognized as the reason behind all of Alexander’s success. Instead Alexander claimed it was of his own doing. Mariposa was last seen in the Kitchen cooking something.

Lady Killigrew

Lady Killigrew was born into royalty in London, England and was next in line to be Queen. The life of royalty never interested in Killigrew though. One day she tied up her household staff and stole a docked ship. Killigrew later attacked a British government ship which housed many members of parliament. Killigrew only injured the passengers, but also managed to sneak away with their riches. Because she was disowned from the royal family, Killgrew emigrated to the US, where she changed her name to Mary Mixtow. It was then she became a big-time gambler at the local casinos and clubs, but soon she was buried in debt, including the largest debt of 500,000 owed to Mr. Alexander. Alexander’s patience eventually ran out, so he assigned his personal collection agency to collect from Killigrew. She was last seen in pajamas in the Master Bedroom.

Captain Blaine Sparrow

Captain Sparrow used his wit and negotiation skills to not only survive, but to prosper in society as well. Sparrow like many people, has one vice though it’s no the common one of treasure. Sparrow’s vice maintaining his reputation and power, for he desires to have leverage over all others so he can get what he wants when he wants. As Sparrow grew his reputation, he heard of Alexander and his resort. Soon Sparrow was a regular guest and later a VIP member of the Willow Creek Resort. On the surface, Sparrow’s encounters with the resort seemed innocent and ethical, but he tricked Alexander and his staff into thinking that, so he could smuggle riches from the resort and sell them on the open market. Sparrow continued to do so until Alexander started to catch on. Sparrow was last seen rummaging through the Storage.

Lieutenant Finch

The “No-Nonsense” Lieutenant Finch first met Alexander at Army Boot Camp and later they served together as Marines in the same battalion during Desert Storm. Finch was an excellent marksman but a rather obstinate soldier with no respect for authority. Alexander on the other hand dutifully obeyed and became Finch’s Sergeant. During a heavy firefight, Finch and Alexander fought along side each other and overtook an enemy base. One wounded man was taken hostage, but instead of treating him as a prisoner of war, Sergeant Alexander killed him without discussion. Ever since that incident, Finch wanted justice served for Lieutenant Alexander. On the night of the murder he was last seen smoking a cigar out on the Patio.

Ms. Crimson

The seductive temptress, Ms. Crimson, effortlessly lured many impressionable men away from their girlfriends or wives. When Crimson and Alexander first crossed paths at a nightclub in Park City, the sparks ignited between them. Crimson had not intended on falling in love, but Alexander’s alpha male status and flirtatiousness was too much to resist. Their relationship started in a flurry of passion and lust, but ended just as quickly at it began. Alexander broke Ms. Crimson’s heart, fleeing without a word for the next pretty thing. Later he finally confessed in a formal letter he never loved her and maybe would never love anyone. Alexander’s callous confession drove Crimson mad with rage. She now wanted to settle the score. Crimson was last seen in the Laundry Room.

Roscoe the Trickster

Roscoe “The Trickster” is a professional entertainer, clown, and comedian or sorts. He always has a trick up his sleeve and man of many colors, for his multiple talents and abilities. Roscoe started out in the circus as a clown, then moved to the stage, then eventually had his own comedy show on Comedy Central. Later he became a distinguished guest of the White House where he entertained the President and his wife. Despite his ever-growing fame and following, Roscoe had yet to receive the praise of Mr. Alexander, whose resort Roscoe frequented with entertaining acts. In fact, one night after Roscoe’s performance, Alexander watched attentively, but did not compliment Roscoe, nor even applaud his performance. Roscoe’s heart and ego were crushed and he never forgot that rejection. Roscoe was last seen in the Laundry Room.

Meet the Scraecrows

2009-10-28T20:54:00.000-07:00

Bride of Frankenstein

KISS

Sheryl Crow

Ratatouille

Dad

The Revenge of Little Red Riding Hood

Darth Vator

"I come in peace" (reminds me of "Signs")

...Any favorites? I would say by far "'Dad" makes the best scarecrow lol.

One of my favorite HoLiDaYs...

2009-10-01T21:38:00.000-07:00

So Matt and I love the month of Halloween. Not because we are childish and want the candy but because it has so much history behind it, it's intriguing, and exciting. Seriously how cool is it that once a year a mature adult can dress up in any crazy, sexy, silly, or scary costume they want. We really need more adults dressing up and celebrating this fun holiday.

Two years ago Matt and I threw an old fashioned party that included Karaoke, Halloween Movie Trivia game, Halloween Charades, eating apples on a line contest, pumpkin painting, cookie decorating, dancing with a full-on DJ, Name That Tune, and to top it off a fashion show with a cat walk. Honestly it was one of the best parties I have ever been to and sadly it was my own. We also went to a Murder Mystery dinner and I played the depressed and jealous witch, Matt was a broadway version of Frankenstein, it was fun but quite confusing at times. Last Halloween we hosted a couples party where each couple brought a short scary story in hopes to win the contest for the most interesting story voted by the others. We also watched one of my favorite horror movies "The Orphanage."

This year well I'm not exactly sure what we are doing. Some of the things that we have planned for this month are: reading Alfred Hitchcock's Best Mysteries - one a night, attending a professional murder mystery dinner, going to see the "Little Shop of Horrors" play, and making sure all our movie watching this month is in the horror/thriller genre. We wanted to throw a Halloween party but we just don't feel like there is enough people to enjoy Halloween in the same way that we do.

Anybody want to pick up the torch of planning the next Halloween party? What Halloween ideas do you have??

Answers

2009-09-19T11:41:00.000-07:00

Here are the long waited answers of what movies were filmed in Astoria, Oregon. The pictures are down below and thus match up to the following numbers:

1. Flavel House, a Victorian home built in 1885, was filmed in Goonies

2. The Astoria Column, the only one of its kind in the world was included in many movies; Kindergarten Cop, Free Willey, Goonies, Short Circuit, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III

3. Old County Jail Building, This jail, used from 1914 to 1976, was included in Goonies, Come See The Paradise, and Short Circuit.

4. The Goonies House, used for one of the main characters house.

5. This building was used as the Astorian Times newspaper, where the main character in Ring II worked (this happens to be one of my favorite genres-and well liked movie). It's not really a newspaper place at all. It's a place where the elderly get their hearing aides and such. But it deffinately was filmed in the inside and outside as well.

6. John Jacob Astor Elementary School, served as Kindergarten Cop's school setting. The filming was done during summer vacation, and local students were used as extras in the shooting. Many local people were used as extras as well. Much of the art work used in the film was done by Astor School students.

MOVIE QUIZ

2009-08-29T13:19:00.000-07:00

Having a husband as a filmmaker sparks my fascination for movies. All six of these pictures are filmed in Astoria, Oregon. So of course being in a beautiful place like Astoria, that has so many movies filmed there, we couldn't help but stop and see a few.

So with that being said; Can you guess what movies these places were in??

2.

I'll give you some hints; One of these was filmed in a popular movie made in 2005 (my favorite genre too).

Another hint...some of them were made in the eighties and nineties and were also a big hit. Some still continue to be a favorite and well-known among us eighties folks.

3.

4.

A few of them were filmed in multiple movies so better chances for you there.

5.

Also a few of the pictures are in the same movie.

6.

There is a possiblity that six different movies were used in this quiz.

So there you have it, just six places! Give me your answers and I'll let you know if your right in a later post.

Happy Anniversary

2009-08-20T13:35:00.000-07:00

How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth of height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.
I love thee to the level of everyday's
Most quiet need, by sun and candle-light.
I love the freely, as men strive for Right;
I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.
I love thee with the passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints, ---I love thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life! ---and , if God choose,
I shall but love the better after death.

-Elizabeth Barrett Browning

Shall I compare thee to a Summer's day?
Thou are more lovely and more temperate:
Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May,
And Summer's lease hath all too short a date:
Sometimes too hot the eye of heaven shines,
And often is his gold complexion dimm'd;
And every fair from fair sometimes declines,
By chance or nature's changing course untrimm'd:
But thy eternal Summer shall not fade
Nor loose possession of that fair thou ow'st;
Nor shall Death brag thou wander'st in his shade,
When in eternal lines to time thou grow'st:
So long as men can breathe, or eyes can see,
So long lives this, and this gives life to thee.

-William Shakespeare

To Be One With Each Other

What greater thing is there for two human souls
than to feel that they are joined together to strengthen
each other in all labor, to minister each other in all sorrow,
to share with each other in all gladness,
to be one with each other in the
silent unspoken memories?

George Eliot

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY MY "LITTLE MAN"
August 22, 2008

I will be posting more about it and our celebrating it by going to Washington later.

Pioneer Day

2009-07-30T11:37:00.000-07:00

For the 24th of July (Utah celebration of the Pioneers) Matt and I went to the Days of 47 parade in Salt Lake. It was my first big parade that I can remember, I went to some when I was little but don't remember much. I would have to say it was definitely hot, long, and a lot neater to see on T.V. It could have been that there just weren't as many cool floats this time around. Mostly marching bands and people on horses are what this parade consisted of . But here are some photos I took....

We also went to another Powwow since the last one we went to in Roosevelt we didn't get to see a whole lot. However once again we didn't get to see a whole lot of dancing because we were too worried about saving a spot for the fireworks and waiting for our food. Oh well, I did get a few good photos but will spare you another post about it, unless you want to see some, let me know.

We then ended the night at Liberty Park watching the fireworks by the pond, which by the way was my first time taking photos of fireworks ( I did them manually without a tri-pod...big oops) I think I did fairly okay.

The End

Pow-wow

2009-07-08T15:49:00.001-07:00

Pow-wow
Originally uploaded by brittneeann

This is how some of the people from Roosevelt celebrate their 4th of July. This Native American Pow-Wow is a three day event. I was only able to attend the first day, Thursday evening. Basically it was where the royalties and war veterans did a dance around the circle. Their type of dance is alot in the feet and the steps they do. They gave thanks for the freedom and for their/our ancestors before us who did so much for us today.

This particular Ute reservation is located in a small town just outside Roosevelt. The natives come from all around the U.S. and camp in grass huts and tents. The evening is open to the public to come watch their Pow-Wow. Friday and Saturday is where competitors from all around the states come to dance with their costumes in hopes to earn scholarships. It is a really neat and cultured event, I was bumbed I missed that part...but I least I got a few photos of the before ceremony and had some amazing fry bread!

If you would like to see more of the Pow-wow photos and/or our fishing trip over the weekend go here.

REAL vs. Toronto

2009-07-06T19:16:00.000-07:00

So this is what we did for Matt's Birthday on the 27th of June......

Real won- 3 to 0. Pretty neat experience for our first professional soccer game.

Public Announcement

2009-06-22T11:52:00.000-07:00

I am not one to publicly announce my personal feelings let alone the love I have for my beau. But since his birthday was this last week, and I saw the cute post my cousin did about her hubby, I thought of the appreciation I have for my own.

And thought I would blog about it.

If I were to mention all the things I love about him it would take to long and I'm sure it would bore some of you. Therefore I will only stick to the ones that stand out to me the most.

He treats me right, meaning he puts me first and is almost always the one to give in. If it means my happiness, he is willing to do it. If it means him apologizing even if he wasn't in the wrong and it was just my stubbornness, he is willing. He has always opened my door now and when we were dating (two years in all). While I was working he made lunches and breakfast for me before I went to work. Even dinners sometimes, which by the way he is a good cook. Most of all, he makes sure I know he loves me through his actions as well as his words.
His creative, kid-like, crazy mind! I was lucky to have such dates that took such creativity and planning. Or at least someone who was willing to win me over pretending to be creative...ha ha. Nonetheless, they were always fun.

Even now he is willing to prove to me life can still be fun even if you are married, and so far he has made married life fun. He isn't afraid to be himself around anyone! Sometimes I tell him how childish it is, but that's who he is and darn-it- baby I'll take it, don't stop. That just means you'll be fun with our future kids.

Most importantly, he is a good man. He believes in me. He shares and values the same beliefs I have. He gave me my dream of living worthy to take me to the temple. He accepts me and loves me regardless of my faults and past mistakes. He is a non judgmental individual, and was willing to hear the worse of the worsts without a blink. He is charismatic, friendly, loyal, dependable, trustworthy, and a faithful priesthood holder. I am grateful that he gets along with all my friends and family.

I love you my Little Man!

A New Soldier

2009-06-15T12:10:00.000-07:00

Welcome Home Private Migliori, We are so PROUD of you!

Barbie Dolls for the Utah Market

2009-06-05T10:09:00.000-07:00

When I saw this I thought it was quite hilarious, I hope this doesn't offend anyone!

Mattel recently announce d the release of limited-edition Barbie Dolls for the Utah market:

' Park City Barbie'
She comes with an assortment of Kate Spade Handbags, a Lexus SUV, a long-haired foreign dog named Honey and a million dollar home. Available with or without tummy tuck and face lift. Workaholic Ken sold only in conjunction with the augmented version.

'Sandy Barbie'
The modern day homemaker Barbie is available with Ford Wind star Minivan and matching gym outfit. She gets lost easily and has no full-time occupation. Traffic jamming cell phone sold separately.

'Ogden Barbie'
This recently paroled Barbie comes with a 9mm handgun, a Ray Lewis knife, a Chevy with dark tinted windows, and a meth Lab Kit. This model is only available after dark and must be paid for in cash (preferably small, untraceable bills) unless you are a cop; then we don't know what you are talking about.

'Draper Barbie'
This yuppie Barbie comes with your choice of BMW convertible or Hummer H2. Included are her own Starbucks cup, credit card and country club membership. Also available for this set are Shallow Ken and Private School Skipper. You won't be able to afford any of them.

'Spanish Fork Barbie'
This pale model comes dressed in her own Wrangler jeans two sizes too small, a NASCAR t-shirt and Tweety Bird tattoo on her shoulder. She has a six-pack of Bud light and a Hank Williams Jr. CD set. She can spit over 5 feet and kick Mullet-Haired Ken's butt when she is drunk. Purchase her pickup truck separately and get a confederate flag bumper sticker absolutely free.

"Vernal Barbie'
This tobacco-chewing, brassy-haired Barbie has a pair of her own high-heeled sandals with one broken heel from the time she chased Beer-Gutted Ken out of Spanish Fork Barbie's house. Her ensemble includes low-rise acid-washed jeans, fake fingernails, and a see-through halter-top. Also available with a mobile home.

' Moab Barbie'
This doll is made of actual tofu. She has long straight brown hair, arch-less feet, hairy armpits, no makeup and Birkenstocks with white socks. She prefers that you call her Willow . She does not want or need a Ken doll, but if you purchase two Moab Barbies and the optional Subaru wagon, you get a rainbow flag bumper sticker for free.

' West Valley Barbie'
This Barbie now comes with a stroller and 2 infant dolls. Optional accessories include a GED and bus pass. White boy Gangsta Ken and his 1979 Caddy were available, but are now very difficult to find since the addition of the infant.

' Provo / BYU Barbie'
She's perfect in every way, mainly due to the high levels of antidepressants in her system.. We don't know where Ken is because he's always at church meetings.

Vintage Photograpy

2009-05-23T21:02:00.000-07:00

So I love vintage stuff and thought I would throw in some of my own photos with some other photos I found. It's pretty obvious which ones are mine, as it is quite clear they are the best ones. Ha ha.

So can you tell which ones are mine??,

Great now I'm in the mood to go do vintage photography!!

Here is one I did using the advice my friend Marcus (thanx btw)gave on my comments. It's Lomography-the look that gives the old photo feel. He's like the tip junkie for photos. Anyways here is my before and after picture (keep in mind it's my first time).

Before

After-
Photoshop does wonders!

Petroglyphs

2009-05-11T20:06:00.000-07:00

As of late, I have a fascination with petroglyphs that are found outside my hometown. Thanks to my father who is my own personal tour guide, I am able to explore different sites without the worrying where to go or how to get there. I have explored some 'glyphs before but never with any sort of appreciation. I think having a camera helps with that! It also helps to have a father who tried so hard to show me things and helped develop my love for the great outdoors!

Any how these particular petroglyphs are the spectacular artwork from the Fremont Indians. They lived on the earth from about 1,700 to 600 years ago. They were most known for their hunting and gathering, aka farmers. The Fremont Culture covers the Western Colorado Plateua and the Great Basin (my hometown). Here is the site if you would like to know more about it or how to get there....Petroglyphs

This one is known as "The Great Hunt."

What a great place to put the sign huh!

A place where one might have lived or a hide out.

Zion

2009-04-20T20:35:00.000-07:00

Zion National Park, UT

So I have lived in Utah my whole life and never have been to Zion, how sad is that! My first time to Zion might not have been the exact weather (sprinkling and rainy) I wanted but non of the less it was adventurous, fun, and exactly what I needed. We hiked the easier trails this time around and hope to hike the strenuous ones next time. The trails we hiked were the Riverside Walk, Weeping Rock, Canyon Overlook, and Emerald Pool. Canyon Overlook was the only one considered to be Moderate and lasted the longest of roughly 2 miles round trip. So for most that might be super easy but for it being my first time out and about for the summer it was just right.

Riverside:
I didn't like this one very much because I have seen plenty of rivers. However this trail has lots of squirrels on it and I have never seen so many in my life. One came right up to me because I was eating peanuts. It took me a moment to realize he could come bite me to get it so I had to put my peanuts away :(

Weeping Rock:
This trail to the waterfall was pretty awesome. Though I hear that it is actually a fuller waterfall in the summer, but since it was early in the year it was just water dripping. We watched in awe as we sat under a humongous ledge and had our lunch, for most of our lunch we were able to capture the beauty around us with no one around.

Canyon Overlook:
This hike was the one that was more strenuous and by far my favorite. It was more out back like where the walk way wasn't paved for you. You had to drive through a tunnel (built in 1931 and super rad looking) to get to this one on your own instead of using the bus system. This is when the rain really started coming down but more in a sprinkle.

By the time we hiked Emerald Pool the rain was really coming down and making everything wet. Everyone that was still hiking had on ponchos. Since we weren't fully prepared I didn't take much photos worth posting, I got too cold. I hear that normally it is suppose to be a beautiful site, but I'll have to give that one another chance lol. So like I was saying, next time I will be ready for longer hikes and hopefully the waterfalls will be in their fullest. Although it rained and I still enjoyed the hikes, I hope next time the weather is nice.

More of my spring break later to come! For those of you who don't know I am not going to school, I just work at a school that gives you spring break off...

Testing!

2009-04-16T21:27:00.000-07:00

Just seeing if anyone reads this, if so let me know! I will be writing about my mini vacation I took for spring break later on...

Plus I liked the photo and needed a good excuse to use it. lol.

2009-04-08T15:42:00.000-07:00

8 Item Tag...You're it now! Here are the rules: 1) Post rules on your blog 2) Answer the six '8' items 3) Let each person know by leaving them a comment.

8 favorite TV shows:
1. 24
2. House
3. Dancing With The Stars
4. Prisonbreak (first two seasons)
5. I Love Lucy
6. I Dream of Jeanie
7. Bewitched
8. Did I mention 24

8 Things I did yesterday:
1. Worked
2. Read Harry Potter (on the 5th book)
3. Checked my email, facebook, and blog
4. Watched a movie with my hubby
5. Read some Brothers Grimm children books
6. Made a quiche for dinner
7. took a nap
8. snacked on coconut frosting

8 Things I'm looking forward to:
1. Spring Break
2. finishing Harry Potter
3. the new movie of Harry Potter
4. summer!
5. finishing my wedding video with Matt
6. my brother's letters from the army
7. Matt finishing his project so we can get money from it
8. seeing my family in two weeks

8 Favorite restaurants:
1. Indian Garden-Prov0
2. Spark-Provo
3. Red Robin (thanks to Marcus)-everywhere
4. California Pizza-everywhere
5. Cafe Molisse-Salt Lake
6. Bambara-Salt Lake
7. Guru's-Provo
8. Magelby's Fresh-Orem

8 Things on my wish list:
1.To travel (first Europe) and take prof. pictures (long term)
2. To have my photos featured in some popular magazine
3. To publish a children's book, and Matt to publish something as well
4. To move away from Utah for a time and have my family move where I go
5. To master the skills of communication with my husband
6. To go to San Fransico and 6 flags (hopefully a short term)
7. For my husband to make a lot of money so I don't have to work
8. To have the ability, instantaneously, to be a great photographer, painter, and decorator

People I Tag:
1. Cami
2. Fig
3. Marcus
4. And whoever else wants to if there is anyone who actually reads my blog often enough

HOLI- Festival of Colors

2009-03-30T20:39:00.000-07:00

For those of you who aren't aware or have never been to the Hare Krishna Temple here in Utah, you should definetley go at least once! It's a neat experience, and a fascination I have had for the last three-four years. To be somewhere and learn of a different culture is like feeling you are out of Utah for the night. Festival of Colors just happens to be one of the events my husband and I attended last Saturday.

We weren't able to make it to the good stuff (costumed dancers, burning of the god, throwing of colors), however we made it to the concert where there was some more throwing of colors and other crazy things students tend to do. I wouldn't recommend going later unless you are a student, or enjoy concerts where it is mostly students. I would recommend going early to see the things I mentioned, or to other festivals, like the Llama Festival, Festival of Lights, or India Festival.

By the way I love Indian food as long as it's not spicy, chicken korma is my favorite. For more information about the Hare Krishna Events please visit their site here.

Happy ThiNgS

2009-03-25T16:42:00.001-07:00

So I thought that since my last two posts haven't been quite on the positive side, I'd let you all in on the things I love and what makes me happy.

Photography-Please check it out, here is my best of 2008.
Respect from others, we all deserve it.
Dessert, a weakness of mine as of late.
Having girls night , YAY, it's so fun.
Creative date nights with my hubby.
Reading Harry Potter, or mysteries.
Spending time with my family!
Watching a good movie, my fav. movies of 2008 are: Dark Knight, Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Incredible Hulk, Kong Fu Panda, The Visitor, Ghost Town, The Strangers, Traitor, and Australia (notice TWILIGHT IS NOT on the list).
Being artsy and creative, it's a form of therapy for me!
Going on Picnics
Walks
The great outdoors!
Friends
Dancing, and/or Zumba

So there you see, I may have pet peeves, however I also have things that make me happy go lucky!

2009-03-16T16:23:00.000-07:00

My husband was telling me the other day that I have a lot of pet peeves, so I thought it would be interesting to some to know what they all are. Keep in mind that most people fit into my pet peeve list at one time or another but yet I still like them so don't take it personally, this is just for fun!

My pet peeves are (not in any particular order):

When people say they will do something and don't (phone calls, girls night out).
When others have a bad estimate with time (more than a half hour-like my hubby lol).
When someone you are walking beside is carrying a big bag on the side that you are walking (they tend to bump you with it).
People who cut you off on the road.
People who slow down on the road just because they see an accident CLEAR off to the side of the road (or someone pulled over), which by the way isn't blocking the road.
When people use the carpool lane without having another passenger!
When people talk during movies (thus my post of "24 Means No Talking").
Me being the initiator of most things (it would be nice if someone else took the initiative of calling, writing, planning, etc.).
Friends that forget you when they have a baby.
This one is kind of touchy but I get hurt feelings when friends forget my birthday. Don't worry if you did, I'm quite use to it-November is a hard month to remember. I mean we should all be better at remembering friends and families birthdays.
When there are certain "cliques" in Church and work. I mean how are you suppose to meet new people when everyone always keeps to their own little group!
Roommates (or hubby) being cluttered and pushing things to the side calling it clean.
When people don't really listen to what you are saying.
People who carry on the conversation themselves and don't allow any room for you to talk.
Little dogs-especially the ones that bark constantly.
When someone decorates or cooks with things that just don't go together.
Workaholics.
Parents who don't control their children when at a guest's house.
People who chew loud or with their mouth open.
Parties that only consist of board games all the time.
Kids/Adults who only talk about or live for video games and T.V.-there is so much more to life!
Having to go to work on a cold, snowy day.
Having to work in general.
Others who run red lights, when it is clearly the green light peoples turn!

So please tell me I'm not the only female who has a big list of pet peeves. Tell me that someone agrees with at least one of these pet peeves or have some of there own! Really I would like to know, please leave a comment.

24 Means NO TALKING

2009-03-05T15:47:00.001-08:00

I just have to say that 24 is by far my favorite TV show (that and House), it has been for like three or four years. This season is especially one of the best along with season 1. It's getting really tense, which actually makes my heart beat faster when I watch the stressful scenes! This season I am actually watching it live with some friends, as opposed to watching it when it comes out on DVD.

This week was a two hour extremely tense episode. I won't ruin it for those who haven't seen it or try to describe it all to those who never watched it, but basically the President in the show is held captive in the White House by terrorists. Anyways when I get into my movies I do NOT LIKE TALKING. Mind you I don't like to be rude but I can't take it anymore! One of the people that come over to watch 24 is a couple with a toddler that is like 18 months. He is really cute, and sometimes he doesn't distract me (I do get distracted easily); however this time he was really fussy for the two hour episode! We paused it five times (watching it live from a lab top) just so we could wait for him to stop whining. Not only that the father likes to talk alot about his theories of the show, or what he knows about this or that, and that get's really old. Save it for the breaks for crying out loud!

Okay so I totally like these people, but I prefer to to watch it on my own! I mean what would you do if you really like being with your friends for once a week and get out of the house. However it's not your house to tell people not to talk? I already have asked twice so kindly before and that hasn't worked. But the baby whining the whole time...well that was my last straw, 24 is just not for talking or for whining babies!

Just had to get that out!!!!

Most Romantic Valentines??? You be the Judge!

2009-02-22T13:11:00.000-08:00

So I finally have had the most romantic Valentines and I'm not sure if I ever will again so I definitely have to post about it without being too detailed ;)

Matt and I both contributed to this years Valentines and each did something creative for each other. We did not have the money we wanted this year so we had to be a bit creative in what we did.Matt had most of the day while I had the evening.

Matt started his creativity off with a memory game he had for me on our bathroom mirror using the traditional children's Valentines cards. On each one of the valentines cards he had addressed the "To:" and "From:" with 32 different terms of endearment. Upon completion I would earn a prize (I got a really cute pair of Valentines P.J.s). Then he had a love poem for me to put together and a word search he made up for me that said "Happy Valentines Day" hidden inside hundreds of X's and O's.Matt's idea for the rest of the day was to base it on an European theme. After we had breakfast he told me that we were going to find outfits of mine that would go along with the fashion in Paris, Rome, Tuscany, Venice, and London. I had no idea what their fashion was, but he had done some research and told me what to wear. He told me we were going to go to these places and he wanted me to look like I belonged and not just some tourist. So after we got together our outfits we had pizza for lunch (pizza originated in Italy), then we were ready to go. Our first stop was London, the sunset was so beautiful as it drifted below Big Ben. Next we went to Rome where the Colosseum is, it was so nice to catch such a historical sight where there was no one else around! Afterwards we ventured out to Tuscany, to a house on a vineyard where I had the idea to "roll around in the hay stacks" he he. Of course we couldn't leave Italy without going to Venice, everyone just has to experience the Gondola rides. And to end our wonderful adventure in Europe we visited the Eiffel Tower in Paris and a magnificent castle in France.
Of course we really didn't visit these places but it was fun to (Adobe Photoshop) imagine so! Ironically we did eat at a fine dinning Italian reasturant called "Tuscany Resturant." Upon arriving home I thought his creativity for me was over and that it was my turn but I was wrong. He had put together a Valentines Basket for me with all sorts of hearts that had all the different languages on them saying "I Love You," two pairs of earings, vintage chapstick and lotion, and some other "playful things."For my part I had put together a memory lane that I had to guide him through blind folded. I first made him watch a season of 24 he missed because he was gone so that I could get the house ready. Then he was supposed to open the scroll I had for him telling him what we were doing and to put on the blindfold. In the scroll it had my first memory of our first Valentines together. The note had said that even though the last Valentines we had together wasn't what he had hoped for (he didn't get a kiss), that this night would be better than before!
The first stop I carefully led him to, so he would have no idea where he was going was to the kitchen. The kitchen was set up with sparkling cider, treats, and candles to set the mood. This is where I shared my second favorite memory of ours with him. When he sat down blind folded he was given the clue to figure out what it was. It took him a while and I had to give him a few hints. But he found that for my birthday two years ago I had kept the note that came with 12 roses he had sent me at work. I told him that I cherished this memory because no one has every sent me roses at work before. He then removed the blind fold so he could have a drink with me and see that I was in a robe bare foot. We had a good time chatting and eating the yummy treats.
Next stop I took him to with the blind fold back on was to the couch in the front room (of course I made the walk longer than needed so he didn't know where it was). I took the blind fold off and told him to look down at the couch. The couch was decorated with rose petals and a black hat and high heals. There on the couch was also my third memory. It was of tickets when he took me to a "Regina Spektor" (my favorite pop artist) concert two summers ago and a ticket to a play called "Charlies Aunt" (one of my favorite plays) also two summers ago. I had told him that this was the best entertainment that I have ever had with any guy and that I wanted to return the favor by providing my own entertainment for him. By the tickets was also a love CD mix he had made for us a little while ago and it had a note on it that said to turn the CD to track 10 and don't look back until I say so. I put on the black hat and high heals and danced to the song "I'm Too Sexy" (which was my favorite song in grade school-ha ha). And then I told him that I had something special waiting for him but before he could get he had to pick up the rose petals. The rose petals went from the couch to the upstairs bedroom. I had made a trail of them while he was watching 24 and he never saw them because he was blind folded. After he picked up all the flowers he noticed that the bedroom door was shut and that it had a note on it. The note said to come in for a massage and to throw the rose petals up in the air when he had enough. The room was lit by candlelight with a soothing sort of massage music playing in the background. Of course after that is where I'm not going to be any more detailed...

So we were trying to see who was the most creative/romantic to make it more fun for us instead of making it a forced holiday that every couple shares. So I want you to be the judge, please be honest who do you think wins?

Gone n Done It!

2009-02-12T19:27:00.000-08:00

He's gone n done it!

He has written his own blog; can you believe my own husband is an official blogger?

I thought it was bound to happen because he loves writing. Only this is even better, he is blogging to make us some extra money(so he thinks). It will probably take awhile before his blog catches on. What makes his blog cool is that he specializes on writing about documentaries. I guess that's cool if you're into documentaries...

Anyhow take a look at his blog if you get a chance, it's pretty awesome!
http://onthedocs.blogspot.com/

My Brother Joins the Army Reserve

2009-02-01T13:21:00.000-08:00

One evening I received a phone call from my mother with some surprising news about my brother. For a long time my brother has been thinking about joining the army and just recently he decided to join the army reserve. He has always loved the adrenaline rush of a good adventure and of course is skilled at shooting guns. So I guess I should have expected this. His training will last for 14 weeks (maybe two more after that depending on what he decides). And who knows, he could eventually officially join if he finds that it fits.

At first, I didn't know what to think. How was I supposed to react, I was worried for his life and family. What a scary time to go to war after such a change our country has faced with a new president. What if war comes to our own country or tends to get worse in Iraq and Afghanistan? Anyway, he had been planning on joining and first talked to my father about it and of course his wife. I was the last to know-go figure. He didn't call me about it until two days later. I was supposed to act like I didn't know about it but that didn't work-I just complained that it was about time he called. So by then he knew my mom had spilled the beans, which isn't a surprise. By the time he called I had given it good thought and realized I should be proud of him for making something of himself other than being a good daddy and husband. Currently he is managing a gas station and is an excellent and dependable at what he does. But this is something bigger and better that will requires a greater sacrifice and more hard work.

I'll be honest I was scared to hear that he wanted to jump out of planes to blow up things (I have been told scary things that could happen to those who jump-like landing in the trees and getting a branch stuck through your body). All in all I am pleased to see he has taken such a big leap and I'm so glad that everyone in our family seems to be supportive of him doing so.

He leaves in two weeks (19th) to go to boot camp somewhere in Missouri and Georgia. He feels that this is the least he could do to support his country and to help his family prosper. I know he is worried about leaving his family. He would love to see the girls grow but he knows that they are in good hands with their mother and my parents nearby. He wont stop begging my parents to check in on them to make sure they are doing okay.

Please pray for him and his family and for all the others that serve our country that they may come home in one piece (never thought I would be saying that phrase). Thanx.

Oh the AnTiCipAtiOn

2009-01-21T18:14:00.000-08:00

As I wait for the afternoon meeting today at work:

Oh the anticipation!

As of a week ago today, finding out that the IA's (instructional aides-I am one technically) jobs are at risk and possibly other specialty teachers:

Oh the anticipation, and worries!

As we found out that all schools across Utah need to cut their budget and that our own school plans to cut four IA's:

Oh the anticipation, worries, and sorrows!

I sit and wait for a week to find out if I'm the one to loose my job and freak and look for another...

Oh the anticipation, worry, sorrow, and stress!

There are no jobs around, ahhh what do I do. I pray! Friends and family pray in my behalf. I'm worried and stressed and overwhelmed. Not only do I worry for myself, but for others whose only support comes from themselves and for those who have more than one person to support:

Oh the sorrow and anticipation!

Thank goodness the news is out-
there are some who sacrifice their hours and pay so we all still have our jobs! Thank goodness I work for a place that is mostly religious and believes that everyone plays a part!

Oh the relief and satisfaction!

RiNg out the OLd and rInG in the nEw!

2009-01-12T15:11:00.000-08:00

As another year goes by and I grow a year older, I still find that I go through trials. Wouldn't life be so much easier if your trials and tribulations lessen as you get older?...

But then I think to myself, how could you have better memories than those that have a trial attached with them? This is very unlike the typical saying you here at church, "trials make you a stronger and a better person."

So here in my "ring out the old and ring in the new" passage, I want to list off my memories of 2008. This list contains some of my favorite memories that stuck out to me the most, yet it also highlights some trials and difficult moments that surprisingly are memorable as well.

Memories of 2008:

Most important, Matt and I got Married!
Our Honeymoon in Maine and Boston.
Matt leaves me for two weeks during our engagement to go to Guatemala.
Living at home for two months away from my fiance.
Matt's parents late to the reception, I having to help set it up.
Worrying so much.
Meeting Matt's brother and sister-in-law.
Having to change our wedding date.
Finding out what it would be like to live with mom and dad again.
New Years in Oregon at a Jazz Club.
Strengthening our friendship with Tracie and Austin.
Meeting new friends at church (specifically Cami and Dustin).
Getting a calling for the very first time at church.
Living in Salt Lake City.
Working at Guadalupe Schools with at-risk Hispanic children.
Going to Mexico to the Yucatan Peninsula with my mother for ten days.
Generous family and friends throwing me bridal showers.
Matt finishes his documentary.
Halloween get together at our own house.
Grandma has a stroke/heart attack.
Finally have say on all the decorating that goes on in my own home!
My cousin Karlee is married the same month I am.
Received my endowments.
Hiked Mt. Timpanogos Cave.
Valentines at Ballet West (not what Matt hoped for,... no kiss)
Matt's Proposal
Antique Car Museum, Tracy Bird Aviary "Super Saturday" Matt planned.
Ambriella's baby blessing, being with Brandt & Mindy at church.
Brandt tolerates Matt a little more.
Spending more time with my neices.
I discover my inner artist abilities.
Not having as much money as I am used to.
Finding somewhere to live.
Finding a job at the last minute.
Matt and I are very blessed with all that we have for just being newly weds.

So as we all "rInG out the OlD and RinG in the NeW" let us all be more thankful for the trials and blessings that bring us our next years memories. Yeah for 2009!

Matt's Documentary!

2009-01-07T15:39:00.000-08:00

If you get a chance check out Matt's documentary he edited, translated, filmed some, and put together the website www.balancingthecosmos.com

He has worked on it for the last five years and it is finally completed. Thank goodness!

It as about the Mayan people in Guatemala and how they keep their traditions in modern time.

ARTWORK

2009-01-05T17:00:00.000-08:00

Presenting: Brittnee's Artwork
starting from the year 2007 (not including photography).

It all started with collaging...2007 as a fun date with Matt

Then comes my first attempt of painting on paper in the year 2008

as you can see not bad, but not that great either. However I never took any lessons, I just did it. Don't think I'll ever do anything with it. Not that great to hang up.

Now comes my second attempt on paper...
Matt made them into place mats for our kitchen table.

Then I decided to actually paint on a canvas (two actually) to match my other pears.

For being my third attempt at painting I was pretty proud of myself and wanted it to be presented as kitchen decor and to celebrate we had friends over for a fancy dinner while my husband showed it off...

In all honesty I'm kind of shy about my attempt at painting and right now I don't think I'm that good yet.

I want to thank my friend for giving me the suggestion of posting my creativity and always knowing I was creative.

I also want to thank Matt for believing in me and supporting me in all I do.

If it wasn't for him and his parents I wouldn't have ever tried to paint (which was something I always wanted to do and just never did). Thank you, thank you Matt I love you!

The Unexpected Christmas Visit

2008-12-28T18:19:00.000-08:00

(Prelude)

Twas three nights before Christmas, when Brittnee called Matt.
Not one road was clean of snow, not even at Matt's habitat.
Matt's car slid on the road and into Big O,
Where he bought new tires and told Brittnee he could not go.

(And now for the rest of the story with continued rhyming . . . )

The thought of snuggling next to my wife in a warm bed away from the hazardous roads and frigid winter air was what I envisioned for the start of my Christmas vacation. Instead I had the plump snowflake fairies pound on my head with visions of me sliding off a snowcapped mountain cliff while Brittnee panicked and froze stiff. But to my astonishment and glee, a plan was presented to me. Brittnee's brother phoned while I waited for my snow tires and told me how the unexpected Christmas visit would transpire.

At half-past three with his wife he would leave Roosevelt, to pick me up while I prayed the snow so fast would melt. Meanwhile my task was daunting for I had to lie to my wife and tell her I would leave first thing in the morning to not cause her strife. Up till it was time to say good night she believed my little fib, but then my phone lost reception in the mountains and I was forced to ad-lib.

"My battery had died and my phone refused to hold a charge," I said.

To which she replied, "I waited for your call but when it didn't come, I called you fifty times instead."

On and on our phone tag went as the truck weaved through the snowy Uinta mountains without a dent. The smarter thing would have been to turn off my phone, but instead I stayed true to my farce so the surprise visit was not blown. To my dismay this only angered Brittnee even more until she said, "You sure know how to ruin my evening and you just love to start a war." After that Brittnee's brother Brandt said, "Turn your phone off and then you won't have to endure her every scoff or run the risk of her hearing our constant coughs." And so I did.

You see Brandt and Mindy were sick, fatigued, but still on my side, not only did they give me a ride to Roosevelt, their disappointment for Brittnee they could not hide. So Brittnee's mother they called to scold her on their behalf, for they heard just a half of our argument and now it was no longer all a laugh. In her room Brittnee received a scolding while she pouted in bed, but little did she know her house for me was not much further ahead.

She said, "I bet you won't get here until 2 pm tomorrow since you are always late."

As she said this I stepped out onto her driveway, laughed under my breath, for her unexpected visit could not wait and surely this argument I longed to abate. She wondered why I was laughing but I quickly denied such a thing as Brandt got to her bedroom door and opened it with a swing. Her face all flushed and tears in her eyes, he asked her to get out of bed for a Christmas surprise. She refused saying, "No I can't I am in my underwear." Then in a blink of an eye I entered the room, slipped past Brandt and stood before her as if I was walking on air. Startled and yet happy she said she knew I had lied. I gave her a hug, a proper reprimand and then smiled wide. It was then that Brittnee realized her brother and sister-in-law had heard our entire argument and discovered that Brittnee at last had a flaw.

Now she was red with embarrassment not knowing what to say, but she wrapped herself in an electric blanket and skirted off to Brandt and Mindy to tell them she worries so much she's going to go gray. They quickly agreed and added, "You were being a little brat, but we hope you are happy." And happy she was, for her husband had arrived a whole day early to her surprise.

THE END

A Happy New Year to all and to all a good night!

Traditions

2008-12-18T16:08:00.000-08:00

One tradition Matt and I want to have each year is Ice Skating. This year we kicked it off earlier than we wanted. We originally wanted it to be a New Years day activity. But as long as we do it, I'm a happy camper!

We made Matt's parents come with us, which at first they were a little resentful and then thanked us afterward. They were so glad we made them get outdoors and off there butts. Which was exactly what the doctor ordered for us!

I had so much fun. I just have to rub it in that I am so much better at skating than Matt. He is lucky if he doesn't fall down, where I do spins all around him. It's not very often that I am better at something than he is.

Another tradition I had before Matt was making some sort of a Christmas craft. I made Matt join in on one so that we could have a creative tree red and white tree (which is my colors I themed for this year, red, black, and white). He helped painted wood candy canes and wired them while I hung them up. We found out it is much better to have me decorate the tree while he just does the lights and other things .....he he. Here are some of the few things I put together or decorated around the house. If I didn't mention this before love decorating. I was so excited to decorate my house for the first time. Just the way I like it!

Here is a snowman's hat (my craft)

We also try to read a Christmas story, with a song, and scripture every night. We plan to carry that on threw the years. My previous blog was an example of one of the stories in our book.

What are some of your traditions?

Favorite Christmas Story

2008-12-12T14:28:00.002-08:00

O. Henry

The Gift of the Magi

One dollar and eighty-seven cents. That was all. And sixty cents of it was in pennies. Pennies saved one and two at a time by bulldozing the grocer and the vegetable man and the butcher until one's cheeks burned with the silent imputation of parsimony that such close dealing implied. Three times Della counted it. One dollar and eighty-seven cents. And the next day would be Christmas.
There was clearly nothing left to do but flop down on the shabby little couch and howl. So Della did it. Which instigates the moral reflection that life is made up of sobs, sniffles, and smiles, with sniffles predominating.
While the mistress of the home is gradually subsiding from the first stage to the second, take a look at the home. A furnished flat at $8 per week. It did not exactly beggar description, but it certainly had that word on the look-out for the mendicancy squad.
In the vestibule below was a letter-box into which no letter would go, and an electric button from which no mortal finger could coax a ring. Also appertaining thereunto was a card bearing the name "Mr. James Dillingham Young."
The "Dillingham" had been flung to the breeze during a former period of prosperity when its possessor was being paid $30 per week. Now, when the income was shrunk to $20, the letters of "Dillingham" looked blurred, as though they were thinking seriously of contracting to a modest and unassuming D. But whenever Mr. James Dillingham Young came home and reached his flat above he was called "Jim" and greatly hugged by Mrs. James Dillingham Young, already introduced to you as Della. Which is all very good.
Della finished her cry and attended to her cheeks with the powder rag. She stood by the window and looked out dully at a grey cat walking a grey fence in a grey backyard. To-morrow would be Christmas Day, and she had only $1.87 with which to buy Jim a present. She had been saving every penny she could for months, with this result. Twenty dollars a week doesn't go far. Expenses had been greater than she had calculated. They always are. Only $1.87 to buy a present for Jim. Her Jim. Many a happy hour she had spent planning for something nice for him. Something fine and rare and sterling - something just a little bit near to being worthy of the honour of being owned by Jim.

< 2 >

There was a pier-glass between the windows of the room. Perhaps you have seen a pier-glass in an $8 Bat. A very thin and very agile person may, by observing his reflection in a rapid sequence of longitudinal strips, obtain a fairly accurate conception of his looks. Della, being slender, had mastered the art.
Suddenly she whirled from the window and stood before the glass. Her eyes were shining brilliantly, but her face had lost its colour within twenty seconds. Rapidly she pulled down her hair and let it fall to its full length.
Now, there were two possessions of the James Dillingham Youngs in which they both took a mighty pride. One was Jim's gold watch that had been his father's and his grandfather's. The other was Della's hair. Had the Queen of Sheba lived in the flat across the airshaft, Della would have let her hair hang out of the window some day to dry just to depreciate Her Majesty's jewels and gifts. Had King Solomon been the janitor, with all his treasures piled up in the basement, Jim would have pulled out his watch every time he passed, just to see him pluck at his beard from envy.
So now Della's beautiful hair fell about her, rippling and shining like a cascade of brown waters. It reached below her knee and made itself almost a garment for her. And then she did it up again nervously and quickly. Once she faltered for a minute and stood still while a tear or two splashed on the worn red carpet.
On went her old brown jacket; on went her old brown hat. With a whirl of skirts and with the brilliant sparkle still in her eyes, she cluttered out of the door and down the stairs to the street.
Where she stopped the sign read: 'Mme Sofronie. Hair Goods of All Kinds.' One Eight up Della ran, and collected herself, panting. Madame, large, too white, chilly, hardly looked the 'Sofronie.'
"Will you buy my hair?" asked Della.
"I buy hair," said Madame. "Take yer hat off and let's have a sight at the looks of it."
Down rippled the brown cascade.
"Twenty dollars," said Madame, lifting the mass with a practised hand.
"Give it to me quick" said Della.
Oh, and the next two hours tripped by on rosy wings. Forget the hashed metaphor. She was ransacking the stores for Jim's present.

< 3 >

She found it at last. It surely had been made for Jim and no one else. There was no other like it in any of the stores, and she had turned all of them inside out. It was a platinum fob chain simple and chaste in design, properly proclaiming its value by substance alone and not by meretricious ornamentation - as all good things should do. It was even worthy of The Watch. As soon as she saw it she knew that it must be Jim's. It was like him. Quietness and value - the description applied to both. Twenty-one dollars they took from her for it, and she hurried home with the 78 cents. With that chain on his watch Jim might be properly anxious about the time in any company. Grand as the watch was, he sometimes looked at it on the sly on account of the old leather strap that he used in place of a chain.
When Della reached home her intoxication gave way a little to prudence and reason. She got out her curling irons and lighted the gas and went to work repairing the ravages made by generosity added to love. Which is always a tremendous task dear friends - a mammoth task.
Within forty minutes her head was covered with tiny, close-lying curls that made her look wonderfully like a truant schoolboy. She looked at her reflection in the mirror long, carefully, and critically.
"If Jim doesn't kill me," she said to herself, "before he takes a second look at me, he'll say I look like a Coney Island chorus girl. But what could I do - oh! what could I do with a dollar and eighty-seven cents?"
At 7 o'clock the coffee was made and the frying-pan was on the back of the stove hot and ready to cook the chops.
Jim was never late. Della doubled the fob chain in her hand and sat on the corner of the table near the door that he always entered. Then she heard his step on the stair away down on the first flight, and she turned white for just a moment. She had a habit of saying little silent prayers about the simplest everyday things, and now she whispered: "Please, God, make him think I am still pretty."
The door opened and Jim stepped in and closed it. He looked thin and very serious. Poor fellow, he was only twenty-two - and to be burdened with a family! He needed a new overcoat and he was with out gloves.

< 4 >

Jim stepped inside the door, as immovable as a setter at the scent of quail. His eyes were fixed upon Della, and there was an expression in them that she could not read, and it terrified her. It was not anger, nor surprise, nor disapproval, nor horror, nor any of the sentiments that she had been prepared for. He simply stared at her fixedly with that peculiar expression on his face.
Della wriggled off the table and went for him.
"Jim, darling," she cried, "don't look at me that way. I had my hair cut off and sold it because I couldn't have lived through Christmas without giving you a present. It'll grow out again - you won't mind, will you? I just had to do it. My hair grows awfully fast. Say 'Merry Christmas!' Jim, and let's be happy. You don't know what a nice-what a beautiful, nice gift I've got for you."
"You've cut off your hair?" asked Jim, laboriously, as if he had not arrived at that patent fact yet, even after the hardest mental labour.
"Cut it off and sold it," said Della. "Don't you like me just as well, anyhow? I'm me without my hair, ain't I?"
Jim looked about the room curiously.
"You say your hair is gone?" he said, with an air almost of idiocy.
"You needn't look for it," said Della. "It's sold, I tell you - sold and gone, too. It's Christmas Eve, boy. Be good to me, for it went for you. Maybe the hairs of my head were numbered," she went on with a sudden serious sweetness, "but nobody could ever count my love for you. Shall I put the chops on, Jim?"
Out of his trance Jim seemed quickly to wake. He enfolded his Della. For ten seconds let us regard with discreet scrutiny some inconsequential object in the other direction. Eight dollars a week or a million a year - what is the difference? A mathematician or a wit would give you the wrong answer. The magi brought valuable gifts, but that was not among them. This dark assertion will be illuminated later on.
Jim drew a package from his overcoat pocket and threw it upon the table.
"Don't make any mistake, Dell," he said, "about me. I don't think there's anything in the way of a haircut or a shave or a shampoo that could make me like my girl any less. But if you'll unwrap that package you may see why you had me going a while at first."

< 5 >

White fingers and nimble tore at the string and paper. And then an ecstatic scream of joy; and then, alas! a quick feminine change to hysterical tears and wails, necessitating the immediate employment of all the comforting powers of the lord of the flat.
For there lay The Combs - the set of combs, side and back, that Della had worshipped for long in a Broadway window. Beautiful combs, pure tortoise-shell, with jewelled rims - just the shade to wear in the beautiful vanished hair. They were expensive combs, she knew, and her heart had simply craved and yearned over them without the least hope of possession. And now, they were hers, but the tresses that should have adorned the coveted adornments were gone.
But she hugged them to her bosom, and at length she was able to look up with dim eyes and a smile and say: "My hair grows so fast, Jim!"
And then Della leaped up like a little singed cat and cried, "Oh, oh!"
Jim had not yet seen his beautiful present. She held it out to him eagerly upon her open palm. The dull precious metal seemed to {lash with a reflection of her bright and ardent spirit.
"Isn't it a dandy, Jim? I hunted all over town to find it. You'll have to look at the time a hundred times a day now. Give me your watch. I want to see how it looks on it."
Instead of obeying, Jim tumbled down on the couch and put his hands under the back of his head and smiled.
"Dell," said he, "let's put our Christmas presents away and keep 'em a while. They're too nice to use just at present. I sold the watch to get the money to buy your combs. And now suppose you put the chops on."
The magi, as you know, were wise men - wonderfully wise men - who brought gifts to the Babe in the manger. They invented the art of giving Christmas presents. Being wise, their gifts were no doubt wise ones, possibly bearing the privilege of exchange in case of duplication. And here I have lamely related to you the uneventful chronicle of two foolish children in a flat who most unwisely sacrificed for each other the greatest treasures of their house. But in a last word to the wise of these days let it be said that of all who give gifts these two were the wisest. Of all who give and receive gifts, such as they are wisest. Everywhere they are wisest. They are the magi.

Merry Christmas Everyone!!

ZuMBa

2008-12-03T20:28:00.000-08:00

...So is there anyone who doesn't like their body or wishes they could loose more weight?? Or is that just me?

I just got back from the gym and actually loved it. I don't like working out; I think it's boring and I tend to watch the clock a lot counting down the minutes I have left. I usually start something and never stick with it (one exception was kick boxing and that was two years ago.) The only thing that kept me going to the gym often was being on the aerobic glider thing in the cinemark area.

Because I have that problem of not liking to work out, I don't do it very often. Unfortunately I have gained weight as a result of it. And I don't like that one bit! So I tried out something new today, that new work out I tried is called Zumba! ....What is Zumba you ask?

"ZuMbA combines high energy and motivating music with unique moves and combinations that allow you to dance away your worries. It's based on the principle that a workout should be "FUN AND EASY TO DO". ZUMBA is not only great for the body, but is also great for the mind."

"ZuMBa is a fusion of Latin and International music/dance themes creating a dynamic, exciting, effective fitness system! The routines feature aerobic/fitness interval training with a combination of fast and slow rhythms that tone and sculpt the body. ZUMBA utilizes the principals of fitness interval training and resistance training to maximize caloric output, fat burning and total body toning. It is a mixture of body sculpting movements with easy to follow dance steps."

View the demo to see for yourself!!!

You may think it is weird or slightly different from your taste but I love it. It's a party rather than a work out. I have loved reggae music for a while now and now I can actually dance to it. Dancing may not be for everyone but I don't think you necessarily have to be a dancer to enjoy this work out.

So what do you think of ZuMBa...would YOU ever do it?? Please I'm curious let me know??

Birthday Adventure

2008-11-26T13:34:00.000-08:00

So for my birthday Matt was full of creative activities. The first creative thing he did blew my mind. He actually did it four days in advance. He prepared a five star meal that really looked like a professional chef prepared the meal. He even made it presentable topped of with candle light and music. I would have to say that was the best cooking anyone has ever done for me. I took pictures of it I was so impressed, I usually have something to say about his cooking so that means something when I take a photo of it.

At the table he a had a single rose with a treasure map attached to it. Of coarse the end of the treasure map led to a treasure chest as so it showed. It had two days worth of adventure on it. First day was on a Saturday so we could have the whole day of fun together. We went to different craft fairs, and an art show. Then we went to this amazing new place to eat in Provo I think it is called SPARKS or something but anyways I would compare it to the Chef's Table (five star food) only better and more affordable! To me it's a lounge where Mormon's can go and have non-alcoholic drinks, in fact they only serve non-alcoholic drinks. Then we went to a play presented by BYU, called Houseboat Honeymoon. He knows I love plays :) It made us laugh because it reminded us about our life and how it feels to be with the in-laws. It's funny when you find out that other couples do the same things and your not the only one. I really didn't like the play too much to be honest, but I was okay with it because of the fact it reminded us that there are actually people who are worse off with family members and them being crazy.

The treasure map also led to the actual night of my birthday which was exactly a week from today on a Tuesday. We went to this place called the Indian Garden or is it the Indian Palace-it's on Center Street?? Anyways I had been wanting to go there because a year ago I discovered that I love Indian food and had never tried the place. Afterwards we went to Color Me Mine, which is a ceramic place, and we painted hot cocoa mugs. Which is also a place I like to go and be creative :) In the end he gave me a key to which unlocks the treasure chest (figuratively). We actually have a big antique chest in our front room, he was hiding my gifts there for a while and I never new it.

So I don't mean to brag or rub it in but I do have a wonderful husband who makes me feel special on my birthday and everyday.

Quirkiness

2008-10-28T16:08:00.000-07:00

I have been tagged by Christy to know my quirks! So enjoy!

1. I don't like water! Lately I drink it because I'm always dehydrated but I use to get UTI alot when I was little because I didn't like water. I even carry around a water bottle and forget to drink it. I always leave it a work or in the car and never take it home with me. I only tend to drink water when I eat out or at meals cuz that is when I remember to.

2. This is personal...lol...when I am at my home I have no manners. Of course this is just with Matt. But I never thought that would be me, even when I lived with my parents or with roommates I never let go of my bodily functions. Now that I live with Matt I have no manners with my bodily functions. It's gross I hate to admit it.

3. When I have to go to the bathroom really bad I do the "potty dance." Matt is probably the only one that has ever noticed.

4. I don't like the typical food like pepperoni pizza, hot dogs (I do if it's cooked a special way-same with hamburgers), spaghetti, lasagna, or anything with red sauce!

5. I get bugged real easily by people and what they do about things or how they do them, although I find it fascinating to watch them and that they do things that bother me.

6. Don't take this personal but everytime I walk into someone's house I critique their decor to myself. I analyze what they have, where they have it, and I would tell myself how I would do it differently or where it should be moved to. I actually go to my mother's house and move and arrange things all the time. I let her know when she has decorated something I don't like or that she needs to decorate her room. Of course I wouldn't ever do that to anyone else, I just think it.

Something A Bit Rebellious

2008-10-24T15:24:00.000-07:00

So Matt and I did something a little out of the ordinary the other day...

We went on a progressive dinner that consisted of three fast food places (keeping in mind each one we went through the drive throughs). First we went to Burger King for a starter, then to Kentucky Fried Chicken for the main coarse, then to McDonalds. Only we didn't eat there because we both despise the place and normally wouldn't consider going there but for some unknown reason I thought they would have good dessert. But they didn't, not what I was wanting anyway. Anyhow this is what happened.

We ate our KFC food at McDonalds (just to rub it in their face their food sucks)
Threw our food away in the trash can so it was purposely poking out.
Went back through Burger King for the second time for dessert

So there you have it that's all you have to do to feel a little rebellious and still get a kick out of it. Here are some other things if you could do if you dare to be a bit deviant! Or you could simply try our eating thing!

Skip church one sunday but still get dressed and instead go to the temple (it's better if it's the one you got married in) and read scriptures.. your still being good right

If your husbands hate something (like mine hates mushrooms) put them in the recipe but making it hardly noticible (mine noticed but didn't mind actually).

Play catch in a grocery store, with one of their toys of course.

Does anyone have any other ideas or have done something like this?

A SUCCESSFUL PLANNED DATE

2008-10-12T11:31:00.000-07:00

OK, Brittnee talked me into writing in the blog, since she thinks I don't participate enough. I suppose I haven't written in this format for awhile, since I have been writing other things and working on other projects that take up my time, but I am grateful that Brittnee has given me this opportunity. So, the main reason why I am writing this blog is to prove to her and her readers that I can plan successful dates and have them end up like I plan them.

So yes, finally we had a successfully planned date. Last Wednesday I purchased tickets to a local American Fork production of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow at the AF Amphitheatre, right across the street from the temple. We showed up on Thursday for the 8pm show greeted by staff dressed in period clothing and took our seats in this bowl shaped amphitheater that looked as if it was built back when the story was written by Washington Irvine. It was a windy and cold evening, perfect to set the mood for a horrific tale of a headless horseman. The play was fantastic! They mixed all kinds of theatrical mediums including music, singing, the narrated story, a live sound effects guy making the SFX on the spot, and actors acting out the parts in time to the narrator, and the best of all a very believable headless horseman who toted his flaming pumpkin head on a sword and rode a real horse. The actor who played Incabod Crane did a hilarious job of overexaggerating the character and making the performance a joy to watch. The kiddies in attendance especially enjoyed watching him and all his stage antics.

The entire production only took an hour of our time and indeed a well spent hour it was. My favorite aspect of the play besides the headless horseman and Icabod Crane's hyper-active femmy like potrayal of the character, was the SFX guy. He added a spooky element to the production like sounds of wind that he recreated with one of those tubes that you swing around or the infamous coconuts banged together to create a horse trotting along.

All in all it was a goofy, exciting, and slightly spooky time, fun for families and just perfect for our date night. If you would like to catch this play it is going on through Monday, so tomorrow is the last day! Catch it while you can! Just google sleepy hollow in AF and purchase your tickets. They cost $10 per adult and cheaper for kids, but make an FHE activity out of it, bundle up, grab a cup of hot cocoa from the concession stand, and enjoy the show! If you miss it this year, they will be having Alice in Wonderland next year sometime and who can pass that up?

The best part of it the whole night was knowing that Brittnee actually enjoyed herself.

In her own words she says, (I thought it was so fun and exactly what I needed, since I love Halloween and plays. Yes, it was a successful date night! Way to go Matt!)

The Life of the Schramer's

2008-10-09T15:16:00.000-07:00

So I thought you all would like to know what's currently going on in my life now that Matt and I have been married for over a month now. Our life is pretty interesting; Aytime we seem to go out on a date to get away from the daily routine of life, it pretty much ends up to somewhat of a dissapointment.

The first time we went out two weeks ago we used one of our gift cards we got from the wedding and was planning to see a movie afterwards. I got too tired so we just went home to watch one while I fell asleep.

The second time we tried another outing we went up to the mountains to have our self a bonfire and I was hoping Matt would play his guitar. However it turned out we got our hopes up all week long to go, it ended up raining all weekend. But we were determined as soon as it cleared we would, which was on a Sunday. While we were up there we didn't bring wood because matt thought we could find wood up there. I thought that was dumb unless we wanted to hike but I decided to give him the benefit of the doubt and little do you know someone was kind to leave us wood. Of course the wood had to be wet so we never did actually get a big fire going. Long story short Matt played with the fire the whole time, I prepared the hamburgers and cooked them over our portable grill. We had no dinner ware to eat on, I forgot them, and as the sun was going down I ate being real cold while Matt continued trying to get the fire going. We did manage to get two smores from the fire and Matt never got to play his guitar. It was a little disappointing and cold but a funny adventure after all.

This last outing we went on was up to Salt Lake. Matt was trying to be cute and romantic and surprisingly take me to a holiday craft fair because he thought I would thoroughly enjoy it. We went to the right address and all but the event seemed to not exist. Go figure! So instead we went to see Eagle Eye.

So basically anytime we try to do something, there seems to be something else that happens to keep us from doing what we wanted to in the first place. If that makes any sense. But is that normal, or is that just the curse of newlyweds, or is it simply the way MY life is? Who knows...

2008-10-03T15:58:00.000-07:00

ALL ABOUT MAINE AND BOSTON-OUR HONEYMOON CONTINUED

The next adventure we went on was to the Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse, this lighthouse I found out is known to be in a famous painting.

This next lighthouse was on private property so we weren't allowed to access it. Seriously, who lives near a lighthouse and tells people it's private property. All lighthouses should be available to the public!

The next day we decided to be a bit jovial and go to a mini theme park at the beach. Old Orchard beach in Maine to be exact. Matt looks tall enough to go on the ride don't you think?

We mostly just basked in the sun because the Atlantic water is cold! Too cold to wade in!

One whole day was spent in BOSTON on the FREEDOM TRAIL. Which was totally Brittnee friendly because the sidewalk had a red painted path that leads to all the historical sites. That made me happy because I wasn't about to get lost going on the trail, it sure saved us allot of stress. The path was about two miles long weaving in and out around downtown and towards the coast.

Our first stop was at Paul Revere's grave. Well this wasn't his actual grave this was his monument. The actual grave was like the ones you see in scary movies, plain and basic. It rests just next to the monument

This is "old iron sides" aka The U.S. Constitution- the ship that was fought in the revolutionary war. It got it's nickname because of the way the ship was built. It had three types of wood use to help protect itself from the bombs. It was never harmed and still floats today!

We just had to stop and take a picture here. This wasn't actually a part of the freedom trail, it was just before it. However I thought it was neat to actually be in a place where a real live TV show was filmed. I didn't actually ever watch the show but still it was neat to see it.

One of the beautiful photo's I took of downtown Boston. I thought I would give you the privilege of looking at it, since you all know I am a professional photographer lol ;)

This was Paul Revere's house, we actually got to see the inside of it.

We climbed 209 steps to get to the top of the Bunker Hill Monument. So that meant we had to climb the whole 209 steps back. I was out of shape and forever felt that one. It was neat and a little claustrophobic. The stairs went in a spiral all the way up.

That completes our honeymoon. I hope I made you all want to go sometime...if you do make sure to go in the fall. I hear they have beautiful fall colors.

Maine Honey Moon

2008-09-16T16:38:00.000-07:00

ALL ABOUT MAINE AND BOSTON-Our HoNeYmOoN

So Maine isn't the typical honeymoon you would expect, that was my first initial reaction. It is a great place to vacation I knew that from the start. But I guess it is on the top 25 list of honeymoon destinations. I couldn't help but think, how can Maine be such a romantic place to share a honeymoon at?

This all came to me as a surprise that Matt so dilligently kept. I knew it would be between Maine or Quebec because Matt listens well and can remember past conversations we had. Those were the two places I had mentioned in our past dating experience. He skillfully lied and made me believe we would be having our honeymoon in Costa Rica with the romance of the beach and sounds of the waves. I was honestly bummed when I found out the day we were leaving that we were heading to Maine. Little did I know what I was in store for..

Everything started of on the right foot when we arrived at our bed and breakfast, English Meadows Inn. We arrived late that night but was greeted with a friendly face with the innkeeper himself. He had so generously waited until we arrived, we didn't reach the inn until 11:00 pm. We originally left at 10:00m am, keep in mind of the two hour time difference. Anyhow back to the B&B. It was just of the coast of Kennebunk Port Beach which is two minutes away from the Atlantic Ocean. The bed and breakfast was exactly what we needed to set the tone for ROMANCE that I desired. We woke up each morning to personable service including any kind of tea we desired (this is where I learned there were other flavors beside green tea and herbal tea-which I despise. My favorite is Pomegranate) and a scrumptious three course English breakfast. All served and cooked by the innkeepers Bruce and his wife Valerie, very friendly people if I might add. They were full of good advice on where to go and what to eat. We mostly used Kennebunk Port as our home base as we ventured to close by areas. No further than 2 hours away.

The first day we were there we decided to take a stroll around the local area and shops. We mostly ended up by the shore and found ourself eating lobster at a local commercial clam shack (recommended by our innkeeper Bruce). That's right..most lobsters in Maine are commercially imported to the states. I was lucky to try them fresh. At least I should feel lucky...
I found out I actually like crab better! There is to many groose things that ooze out when you open the center of the lobster. Plus crab just tastes better anyways. The best part is the tail..who know there were more to eating the lobster than the tail? I sure didn't!

This was taken by Matt right by the Clam Shack

The next day we drove an 1 1/2 to a coastal town called Boothbay Harbor where we bought tickets for whale watching. We boarded a huge boat and we waited at the point of the boat like the scene in Titanic. Lol. We saw four different types of whales, some the length of 60 ft or longer. This whale is a Fin Back Whale, which is larger than a Hump Back Whale. This is one of the best photos we got, sadly no whales jumped out of the water.

HONEYMOON TO BE CONTINUED......

Reception- August 23rd

2008-09-13T17:03:00.000-07:00

THE RECEPTION

The reception was great for the most part. I say that because there is always something that goes wrong right, at least that's what they say. Anyhow I just have the sort of personality if things don't go according to plan I freak out, well Matt was good at keeping me happy and forgetting all about it.

The reception was outdoor and was so beautiful. We had it at a park in back of a wealthy person's house (he owns the park) thanks to my father and his friendly connections. First we did the traditional standing in the line with Matt and my parent's and brothers for the first part. We then of course did the traditional cutting of the cake and serving refreshments (flaming crepes-with all the toppings you can think of!), we also added our own personality to the reception and danced a waltz for the couple dance and ended the night with sparklers as we made our getaway to the car.

My Mother dancing with my bro, he probably would kill me if he knew I posted this. I just had to though he looks so happy dancing with my mother it makes me want to cry! Off to the honeymoon...wooo hooo!!

Wedding Day- August 22nd

2008-09-13T16:46:00.000-07:00

Wedding Day

My photos are finally here and I finally have access to the computer to post them (we don't have the internet at home yet). So heres the schedule... We got married friday morning on the 22nd of August in the Mount Timpanogos Temple. Our reception followed a day later in Roosevelt, Ut. We Went on our honeymoon afterwards (more pics of the honeymoon to come later..or soon) to the coast of Maine. Came back from Maine and had an open house in Salt Lake City on Labor day. I know it was hard for everyone to make it so this is for the ones who would like to see how the day went.

It feels "GREAT" to finally be married. It has it perks and of course not every day is perfect. There is always the moments when you realize that not everything "I" do is the right way to do things. Some of the perks include doing whatever I want with my husband..wink...wink, and how sweet he is to me splitting the household duties. He actually does more than me right now because he has the advantage of working at home and he LOVES me. He is so amazing, he has been making me lunches everyday and fixing breakfast every morning so far. I'm just waiting for the moment he'll stop doing that because it won't be as exciting to him. Anyhow here are the rest of the photos....

12 More Days

2008-08-10T22:02:00.000-07:00

12 More Days until the BIG DAY!

So how do I feel....uhh depends on the day!

Sometimes I can't wait to get it over with and just be married. . .
It's annoying having to say goodnight everynight and not just be next to him. It's bothersome to go home our separate ways. It's annoying to tell him to not look or stay downstairs because I have to change. Did I mention how annoying it is to say goodnight?? Because I'm really sick of it! Thus I can't wait to just be married.

Okay so of course it's not just to get over the annoyances. I'm just so excited to be marrying my best friend. It will be so neat to be roommates and do whatever we want wink, wink. I actually mean that all around with everything. I'm way blessed to have found someone who treats me so good and puts me before himself.

Some days I'm a little scared and wonder if I'm ready (but then who is truly ready?)? I have lived a single life away from home for six years and been in and out of relationships. I wonder am I really ready to settle down with one person for the rest of my life and beyond? Will there still be excitement and romance? But then I think if I follow the council others give me, do what I can to make it through each day, and find something positive about the day (like we or he... lol always does), we will be fine. I guess I have what you call "cold feet" sometimes. But I know that Matt will do all he can to make me happy and that I always have struggled with high expectations and I just need to realize that I'm just retarded.

Then other days like today I'm back to excitement and just Can't wait! Who am I to kid myself with cold feet? Sometimes I get lost in my world thinking everything should go just right (I'm a blue personality) and I have to keep reminding myself they don't and Matt is as close to perfect as I could possibly ask for. Sure he isn't perfect at all but I know he tries to improve and bends over backwards for me. I just need to be better at bending back to him.

I love Matt!

Memory Game

2008-07-23T06:16:00.000-07:00

This one is making the rounds.

Directions: Leave a comment on my blog of a memory you and I have had together. It doesn't matter if you've known me for a short time or a long time; anything that you remember!Then re-post this on your blog to see who leaves comments for you..

THIS and THAT

2008-07-14T15:59:00.000-07:00

As I await for my married life with Matt, I live in a small town called Roosevelt, and man am I bored!! No offense to those who live in a small town, but I guess I am to used to being in the city and having Matt by my side, its hard. So I decided to write miscellaneous things about who knows what.

First of all Matt and I had our first camping trip together. After one year of dating we finally go camping...it's a family reunion. Not so fun on my part though. Well the frist few hours was a blast. But Why was in not fun after that? Well because Matt drove a 4wheeler for the first time up mountains and my father happened to take us up a very steep climb. Yah..didn't turn out so well. It so happened that the 4wheeler ended up straight in the air, I was on the ground, and Matt was ready to fall on top of me with the 4wheeler. Luckily my father came to the rescue as I let a bloody scream. Truthfully I wasn't panicking (I was very calm for some unknown reason) I only screamed to get some help. I ended coming away with a bloody elbow, just a little scraped, and a bruised butt. Matt just got a road rash on his leg. Nothing big...until the next day. My body ached! That night was miserable. Not only did my body ache, my mattress went flat in the middle of the night, I was rolling down hill slightly because I was slightly on a hill, and my dog was by my tent heaving all night later finding out she had bronchitis.

Thus I had the worse night of my life. We had just got there day before and reunion or not I wanted to go home. That night we left...unfortunately everyone just thought we were party poopers but I didn't care I ached, and I was awnry all I wanted to do was sleep. So there you have it our first camping trip together.

Second of all I had my first bridal shower which was a blast....Tracie may not think so because she was so stressed but I had fun. I actually felt like a princess thanks to my friend Lina and Tracie. Thanks again Tracie.

And finally...I need your help. For those of you who don't know, I work in the education field and have the summer off. Matt is going to be gone to Guatemala for two weeks and I am going to miss him terribly! Yes I am out here alone in Roosevelt as it is but I end up seeing him every weekend and talk to him on the phone about twice a day. I wont beable to do that soon. I need your help on ideas of what to do (keep in mind I am by myself..so must of the suggestions need to be pertaining to that. Here is the list I had for myself outside wedding stuff.

Chores for my parents...moving the lawn, cleaning organizing, etc.
Be with family
Find an old friend I went to high school with and go to lunch
Scrapbook
Read a book
Watch my fav movies I don't get to watch with Matt much
My hobbie (which is Photography)
Table Proj. (Paint and sand a table)
Exercise (which I need to do more)

Can you help me by coming up with more ideas. Keep in mind I have a month longer to survive, no one to do it with, and no money!!

Matt and Brittnee

2008-06-04T20:02:00.000-07:00

First photo together as an "engaged couple."
Taken in Long Beach Cali, where his brother lives. We love Cali!!

The Engagement Rock

2008-06-04T19:58:00.000-07:00

The rock where it all happened!

I'm Engaged!

2008-06-04T19:11:00.000-07:00

I'm getting married, who would of thought of that!! Lol. My life of always having a relationship has come to a halt and have finally found someone that gets to put up with me. Yeah! All who know me know's my good and bad and know that it is definately a blessing to find someone who is a good guy and treat's me right. Finally somebody everyone agrees is a good choice! Here is the story of how I got engaged.

It all started on a Monday, the day of our one year aniversary (May 5th), when he surprisingly came to my work to take me to lunch. I could tell the was something unusual because he was a bit nervous and I was thinking it could be because he was going to propose or was simply doing something out of the norm for our one year. I kept the conversation going in the car to ease the situation just in case, I then noticed we were driving farther than my half hour time slot would allow. I asked Matt what was going on he had said that he took off the rest of the day for me. We drove to Provo to a Cafe where we first ate lunch together. He had the waiter bring out a letter in my name and claimed he knew nothing of it. I opened up and there behold a love story of our life!! The beginning of it anyhow, the continuation was to be at "the next location." The "next location" ended up being at an art museum where we went on our first outing together as friends. There he carefully put another envelope in the next room and when I walked around the corner there it was above the most hideous oil painting. The next location after that he blind folded me while we drove to a park in which should have taken fifteen minutes ended up taking forty (he then needed my help to remember how to get there). This park was where he first took me on a picnic date and had provided a complete home cooked breakfast meal. The letter at that location had said "To be continued," something phrased a little differently than the rest. We then ended our date at a fondue restaurant with no letter! I was a little bumbed to say the least but it was a wonderful expensive dinner! I thought that the proposal would happen that evening but it didn't it ended up with an episode of Smallville.

Two weeks later on a Monday he cooked dinner for me, which wasn't out of the ordinary, and said that he had a hike planned for me to do my photography, which also wasn't out of the norm. We hiked in an area that looked over the whole view point of Salt Lake and watched the sun go down. At first we were in the wrong spot, which I didn't know till afterwards, we had to wait for a guy to move so I could get "the perfect sunset." He then watched me take photo's, which also isn't out of the norm. He then brought out the rest of the letter which was our love life caught up to the present telling me to be distracted while he does something. He then took off his hoodie, got on his knee's and proposed to me on the top of a big boulder with his white shirt and tie and a sparkly ring! All I had to say is "ahhh" "aaahhhhhhh" "ahhh," and something that sounded like an Y e s s.