Welcome 2011!

New Hairdo

2011-10-11T11:45:00.003-06:00

Fall is Here!

2011-10-10T10:50:00.005-06:00

Jennica's Baby Shower

My daddy turns 60

Megan's Bridal Shower

Lauren's Bridal Shower

Beautiful butterflies in my backyard

Allee turns 10

Playing at the park

Summer Fun

2011-10-10T09:51:00.005-06:00

Camping!

Come Fly With Me
Sandy Showcase

Starvation - Hippie Night

I turned 29 this year!

Ran the Dirty Dash

Celebrated Brian's 30th at the Fair

Went to Bryce Canyon

Went to Manti on a 4-wheeling trip

July/ August Activities

2011-10-10T09:35:00.007-06:00

My new neice, Wilma :)

Memory Grove

Fireworks

Hike Up Millcreek

Hot Air Balloons (that never launched)

Hanging with Whitney

Sailing on the Great Salt Lake

Christa and I tie-dying shirts.

My Baby Girl - Smokey

2011-10-10T09:31:00.006-06:00

Brian and I are new proud parents of a lab/boxer mix puppy named Smokey. She was born on May 23rd. We got her on July 4th. We love her SO much!

Trevor & Lauren Engagements 2011

2011-09-16T19:11:00.019-06:00

Some Things I've Neglected to Post

2011-06-28T13:11:00.007-06:00

Watching my Best Friend in his play!

Paisley Jo Playing with Baby Chicks

Hanging out with Allee and Tyler

Coloring Easter Eggs with Christa

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Banquet

Fun Day of Pictures - Thanks to Whitney for Taking Pix!

2011-03-20T21:13:00.002-06:00

Promotion

2011-03-11T15:32:00.002-07:00

I got a promotion at work! I am now the leasing consultant at the Brigham Apartments. It's always busy and sometimes I feel like a chicken with its head cut off, but I love it. I love the work. I love the apartments and I love the people I work with.

NUVO Dance Convention

2011-02-27T18:27:00.006-07:00

NUVO Dance Convention sponsored by So You Think You Can Dance
So Fun To Watch!

Valentine's Day 2011

2011-02-27T18:22:00.007-07:00

Valentine's at my mom's house.

Our Valentine's Night... Yum Yum Yum!

Birthdays, Babies, Graduations and Puppies!

2011-02-10T09:11:00.005-07:00

Happy Birthday Weston!

Happy Birthday Jennica!

Meeting Wendy's baby Qhloi. So sweet!

My sister graduated from cameo college. Congrats Lish!

My niece Nicole bought this puppy and I got to babysit her for 4 days. Her name is Sophie and she is adorable. I miss her.

Playing with Paisley at the Farm.

Tyler Turns 8

2011-01-18T11:32:00.005-07:00

My niece, Tyler, turned 8 years old on Sunday. She is such a happy little girl. She has a bright smile and a very contagious laugh. She is also so cuddly - which I adore! :)

She had a ROCK STAR friend birthday party on Saturday. We played dancing games and sang karaoke. Everyone got a backstage pass and a CD of some of Tyler's favorite songs. It was a blast.

On Sunday, she had ice cream and cake with the family.

Happy Birthday Ty! I love you so so so much!

My New Job

2011-01-13T09:13:00.003-07:00

I started a new part time job last Tuesday. I am a receptionist/admin at Zions Securities Property Reserve. They are a property management company. I work in the Triad Center in downtown Salt Lake. It seems to be a great company to work for. I have enjoyed it very much so far. The people are kind and very accepting. I am excited to embark on a new adventure.

Something New

2011-01-13T09:08:00.003-07:00

Jeff and Heather (My Brother and Sister in law) had a brand new baby girl on January 6th. Her name is Kaylee Nicole Wood. She is so beautiful. She was 19 inches and 9 lbs 10 oz. Every one is doing fabulous!

Some 2010 Highlights

2011-01-07T10:24:00.002-07:00

New Year's Eve - We played games and ate yummy food all night long with Kathy, Todd, Courtney, Kenz, Weston, Christa and Paisley

Christmas Day

Christmas Eve

November - Running the Turkey Trot

Thanksgiving with the Bass'

November - Got to see the Rockettes with my Mom

November - Reuniting with my 2nd Cousin Taysha! :)

October - Carving Christmas Pumpkins

September - "I Can Tri"

September - Trip on the Paiute Trail with my Papa

I canned tomatoes, pickles and salso this year all by myself!

September - Brian turns 29!

August - First Time at Sundance

Manti 4Wheeling Trip

July - 80's Night at Starvation

July - My neice got married! We now share the same anniversary date!

Mmmm - Picking Raspberries

May - I turned 28!

RE/MAX Goodbye Party

March - Starting to Train for the Triathlon

Jan - Making Sushi at Home!

I've Been Tagged!

2011-01-07T09:02:00.002-07:00

Dear Monica,
I love stuff like this. Thanks for tagging me! LOVE YOU!

4 Shows I watch
*Bones
*Criminal Minds
*Fringe
*Vampire Diaries

4 Things I am passionate about
*Photography, Dance and Poetry
*Family
*Friends
*Passion Itself

4 Phrases I say a lot
*Calling People Friend or Love
*Cool Beans (Hot Tacos, Cold Rice and Warm Burritos)
*Seriously
* ---

4 Things I have learned from the past
*To try and treat everytime you see someone you love like it may be the last time you'll see them
*Don't hold back on telling someone how you are feeling
*Think about your dreams, wishes and goals everyday. Decide how you are going to accomplish all you want and then DO IT! You only have so long.
*Children (especially my neices, nephews and Paisley) can always make me feel better - always!

4 Things I did yesterday
*Worked my 3rd day at my new job
*Met my new neice, Kaylee
*Had a very yummy Quizno's Sandwich
*Made some new dance cd's

4 Places I would love to visit
(that I've never been)
*Eygpt
*Europe
*Africa
*Maine

4 Things I am looking forward to
*Graduating
*SnowShoeing
*Biking 100 Miles in the SL Century
*Having a baby in the next 2-3 years

4 Things I love about Winter
*Christmas
*Snow (except not driving in it)
*Hot Cocoa and Egg Nog
*Fires (in the fireplace)

4 People to Tag
Anyone who wants to :)

Holiday Wish List (I know it's late)

2010-12-28T09:21:00.002-07:00

1. What is your holiday wish for your family?
That we all can feel accomplished and loved.

2. What is your Christmas morning / Hanukkah Nightly tradition?
Get up early. Eat orange rolls for breakfast.

3. If you could ask Santa for one, completely decadent wish for yourself, what would it be? Weekly massages

4. How do you make the holidays special without spending any money?
Being with family. Snuggling and chatting by the light of our tree. Hot cocoa and fires.

5. What games did you play with your family growing up?
Uno was our favorite

6. What holiday tradition have you carried on from your own childhood?
PJ's on Christmas Eve

7. Where would you go for a Christmas/Hanukkah-away-from-home trip?
I wouldn't, unless we had a cabin.

I am such a Slacker!

2010-08-02T16:13:00.002-06:00

I can't believe how long it has been since I've blogged. I am not going to try and play catch up, because if you know me at all, you'd know that would be 5 million pictures. I will say that our summer has been fabulous. I'll start to report regularly. :)

January Birthdays

2010-01-30T11:07:00.004-07:00

Happy Birthday Jennica!

Jennica works with me and she is the definition of awesome! She's one of those friends that really loves you for who you really are and she isn't afraid to express how she feels and she's full of awesome advice!

Happy Birthday Nicole!

Nicole is one of the sweetest peopple I know. She's so fun to talk to and hang out with and especially laugh with. She's not only my liece, but a friend and someone I always miss cuz I don't get to see her enough. :)

Happy Birthday Tyler!

Tyler turned 7 this month. She's such a doll! She always makes me laugh. She's sweet and she always wants to hug me - which I adore. Brian and I gave her a really cute outfit (skirt, vest, hairbow) and then we threw some gum in there - Guess what her favorite part of the present was - Yep, the gum!

Wood Photography 2009 Year in Review

2010-01-08T10:13:00.053-07:00

Here are some of the photo sessions I had the opportunity to do in 2009. I am sorry that I could not post everything, but I tried to find a variety for you to see. Thank you to all my photography clients!

Here are some of Wood Photography's specialties (but I am not limited to only this list - I would love to expand my horizons.)
* Weddings * Fashion
* Bridals * Events (bridals showers, baby showers, parties, reunions, etc.)
* Engagements * Groom Photos (like Bridals for the Groom)
* Families * Pets
* Children * Business Photos
* Infants
* Friends
* Senior Portraits
* Missionary Portraits

Email me at wood.photography@hotmail.com or call me 801-598-5044 to book an appointment.

See more photos at www.myspace.com/woodphotography

The Last of 2009

2010-01-06T11:03:00.007-07:00

Here are some things we got to do in the last month of 2009.

Brooklyn , my niece, got her ears pierced and invited me to come along. She was so brave. No tears. She looks beautiful. She picked a pink diamond earring.We got together with Jeff, Heather and family to make Christmas candy. We made tons of things this year. My favorite was the English Toffee - Mmmmm!
Christmas Eve at my mom's was a blast. We exchanged gifts, ate yummy soup and enjoyed great company.
Christmas day was great! Our first Christmas in our new house. Brian got me up around 7. We opened gifts, ate breakfast and watched a Christmas movie. We went to Brian's parents in the afternoon, ate a fantastic dinner and hung out with the family.
We went shooting. It was a tiny bit cold, but so much fun - One of our favorite things to do.
And we spent New Years Eve with old and wonderful friends. We stuffed our faces with awesome food, played games, sat by a campfire and watched fireworks. Very fun night!
I wish all of you a wonderful 2010. I hope for you success and joy!

What we've been up to!

2009-12-16T10:26:00.017-07:00

It's been an amazing month! We put up our Christmas tree sometime in November and have been enjoying it almost every night since.

We went to St. George for Thanksgiving and had a blast. We shot shotguns and rode horses and went shopping. I just love hanging out with family.

I went to the Festival of trees. I saw a Betty Boop tree that reminded me of my Grandma. I miss her everyday, but a little more this time of year. I also saw a tree for little Lulu, whom I adore and haven't even met yet.

I got the COOLEST sweater from Courtney and I love it - makes me happy!

We made gingerbread houses.

I had THE TIME OF MY LIFE at my work party. I got to get all dressed up and danced the night away - SO much fun!

We went to the Low Doe Country Christmas Show. We got to see Bombshell, Santa, Bucky Covington and Phil Vasser. Great Show!

We celebrated Cody's 22nd birthday.

We went to dinner at Trio for our staff party - in our Christmas sweaters. Very fun night! Love these girls...

I've been watching my awesome dancers perform. They are darling and do so well.

We gave our friends their gift and they gave us ours. We are so lucky to know Weston and Christa - amazing friends and amazing people :)

I hope the holidays are bringing everyone joy and LOTS of laughter. This is such an amazing time of year. I am in awe at the things I see, the people I know and the love I feel...

They Walk Among Us.. .. ..

2009-12-04T15:42:00.003-07:00

It's that magical time of year again when the Darwin Awards are bestowed, honoring the least evolved among us.

These aren't all of them - but a few of my favorites!

1. After stopping for drinks at an illegal bar, a Zimbabwean bus driver found that the 20 mental patients he was supposed to be transporting from Harare to Bulawayo had escaped. Not wanting to admit his incompetence, the driver went to a nearby bus stop and offered everyone waiting there a free ride. He then delivered the passengers to the mental hospital, telling the staff that the patients were very excitable and prone to bizarre fantasies. The deception wasn't discovered for 3 days.

2. Seems an Arkansas guy wanted some beer pretty badly. He decided that he'd just throw a cinder block through a liquor store window, grab some booze, and run. So he lifted the cinder block and heaved it over his head at the window. The cinder block bounced back and hit the would-be thief on the head, knocking him unconscious. The liquor store window was made of Plexiglas. The whole event was caught on videotape.

3. As a female shopper exited a New York convenience store, a man grabbed her purse and ran. The clerk called 911 immediately, and the woman was able to give them a detailed description of the snatcher. Within minutes, the police apprehended the snatcher. They put him in the car and drove back to the store. The thief was then taken out of the car and told to stand there for a positive ID. To which he replied, "Yes, officer, that's her. That's the lady I stole the purse from."

and

4. When a man attempted to siphon gasoline from a motor home parked on a Seattle street, he got much more than he bargained for. Police arrived at the scene to find a very sick man curled up next to a motor home near spilled sewage. A police spokesman said that the man admitted to trying to steal gasoline, but he plugged his siphon hose into the motor home's sewage tank by mistake. The owner of the vehicle declined to press charges saying that it was the best laugh he'd ever had.

Christmas Lights

2009-11-14T09:39:00.003-07:00

Brian put up our Christmas lights on November 11th. They look awesome! Happy Holidays Everyone!

Liver For Lulu

2009-11-14T09:33:00.004-07:00

My best childhood friend, Lizzy and her husband James have a sweet little daughter who is in need of a liver transplant. There was a fundraiser held on November 10th in London's honor. We ate a wonderful dinner, had a silent auction, watched the sweetest video, listened to Lizzy and James tell their story and listened to the wonderful Jon Schmidt play the piano for us.

This family is beautiful, amazing and strong. I think about them and pray for them often.

Love you Lizzy!

Taylor's 2nd Birthday

2009-11-14T09:31:00.002-07:00

Taylor turns 2! We had a little party for her and she is so hilarious - She makes the best faces. Happy Birthday Taylor!

I Have Not Forgotten!

2009-11-04T08:18:00.001-07:00

The proud warriors of Baker Company wanted to do

Something to pay tribute

To our fallen comrades so since we are part of the only

Marine Infantry Battalion left in Iraq the one way that we could

Think of doing that is by taking a picture of

Baker Company saying the way we feel.

'WE HAVE NOT FORGOTTEN'

And are proud to serve our country.

The attached photo

is from one of the last U.S. Marine companies in Iraq

to let the

folks back home know that they remember why they're there and

that they remember those who've been lost.....

Halloween Activities

2009-11-01T10:39:00.006-07:00

Allee at her school Halloween Parade.

Tyler at her school Halloween parade.

Re/Max Halloween!

My Sister's "Nightmare on Montrose" Party

Halloween Night

At Holly and Haven's Party!

Some Fun October Events

2009-10-26T19:25:00.004-06:00

All the girls in the Dana family went to see Thriller. A friend's daughter was in the Chucky dance this year. We had tons of fun!

The staff at my work went to dinner and to see a magic show by Paul Draper. Love these girls!

Paisley Jo -- So Cute!

Cat Spider

2009-10-16T09:15:00.002-06:00

Brian and I found this spider outside our house. And with the help of our friend Jake, we identified it as the Cat Spider.

It tends to make its webs near lights and in corners along the outside of buildings. Full-grown females can be quite large and have a combination of odd projections on the abdomen as well as dark indentation markings that some say resemble the ears and eyes of a cat.

Despite their large size and bizarre appearance, cat-face spiders are harmless to humans.

God Bless Our Troops

2009-10-12T09:14:00.003-06:00

I got an email this morning that touched my heart. I feel so blessed to have men and women who risk their lives for mine.

'Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands Protect them as they protect us Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. Amen.'

New Baby!

2009-10-08T16:10:00.003-06:00

Some of my best friends had their first baby last night. It's a Girl! Paisley Jo. 9 pounds, 21 1/2 inches. Proud Parents: Weston and Christa

Officially Home-Owners

2009-10-07T14:24:00.002-06:00

Brian and I are officially home-owners. :) More pictures and details to come...

Birthday BBQ for Allee, Brian and Dad

2009-09-21T09:31:00.004-06:00

We had a Birthday BBQ for Allee, Brian and my dad. They all have bdays in September. Allee turned 8. Brian turned 28 and my dad turned 58. We BBQ'd on Sunday and had hamburgers, chip -n- dip and fruit. We hung out in the backyard, opened presents and ate ice-cream and cake.

We got to have Taylor with us too. She's almost 2 - I can't believe it.

Christa's Baby Shower

2009-09-19T13:02:00.004-06:00

I got to throw my friend a baby shower. It was fun! She is due any day now. She got some great stuff. I cannot wait to meet this baby girl - Paisley Jo.

Happy Birthday Hubby

2009-09-19T12:55:00.004-06:00

Brian turned 28 on Sept 9th. He's been busy with school - so on his birthday I put a goody sack in his car for him to find in the morning, made him swiss chicken (at his request) for dinner and gave him his gifts. I got him a windshield wiper for inside your car, nice hangers (cuz he wants to get rid of all our wire ones) and a gift certificate to Home Depot.

Then on the weekend we went to dinner and a movie with Weston & Christa to celebrate as well. :)

Labor Day Camping Trip

2009-09-19T12:48:00.006-06:00

We went on a camping trip over Labor day with Steve's family and Jeff's family. I was sick most the time, but still had a great time. We have such an awesome family. The above picture is of Bryson - he was a little upset and rubbed his face in the dirt - haha.

Above is Connor all ready for battle and below Megan & Connor are sword fighting.

Below is Megan, me and Copper watching the family play softball.

Me and Brian

Happy 1st Birthday Whit-Wher

2009-09-19T12:44:00.005-06:00

Whitney had her 1st Birthday on Sept. 4th. Rich & Kim celebrated with pizza and cake at the park. Whit was so cute with the cake... at first she wasn't quite sure what to do, but as you will see below - she started to enjoy the pink frosting quite a bit. :)

Updating

2009-09-18T09:07:00.008-06:00

Here's an update on some of the events of the summer.

Brian and I went on our annual Starvation trip in July. It was a blast as always. We did a Luau theme night and played games and ate great food. The picture below is me, my sis and Brian eating a Starvation traditional treat - muddy buddies. We love them.

Every year at Starvation we have a horseshoe tournament. I didn't win this year, but I did get a double ringer - which is amazingly awesome!

Our best friends starred in the Draper Beauty and the Beast play. They did SO good! We went and saw them twice. :)

Brian and I during the bow hunt. Brian didn't get anything, but he was almost attacked by a badger. Yikes!

This is my friend Christa's work baby shower. She is due any day now. I cannot wait to meet baby Paisley! I am so excited about it.

The Annual Gopher Gang Golf Tournament. Weston played this year. It was fun to have friends there hanging out with us. :)

Rachel's Baptism. She is such a beautiful young girl. I am so proud of her.

More to come. I promise to catch up and be better at blogging. :) Life is just too darn busy.

August & September Birthdays

2009-09-17T16:37:00.007-06:00

I am a total slacker... So in an attempt to redeem myself, I am blogging about August and September Birthdays!

August 4th - Tom
My brother-in-law. Tom is a hard worker. Tom is an awesome party host. Tom is very giving. He makes me laugh too. Happy Belated Birthday Tom!

August 19 - Charity
She is my best friend. She is the other half of my soul. She knows me very well and loves me no matter what! Happy Belated Birthday Cousin!

August 20th-Megan
My sweet niece. Megan is fun to hang out with. She makes you smile and is very helpful. Happy Belated Birthday Megan!

August 21st- Brittney
Ohhh... Long Lost Friend. I've spent A LOT of time with Brit. She's so fun and always has great stories. I miss seeing her often. Happy Birthday!

August 23rd- Aly
Sister-in-law and so cool. She has the best fashion sense. She is always so helpful and so kind. Very Sweet. Happy Belated Birthday Aly!

August 25- Dene
Work friend. Dene is such a hard worker. She is the prime example of what a person should be like in the workplace and in her life. She's dedicated and awesome. Happy Birthday!

August 28- Steve
Brother-in-law. So smart. So helpful. He's full of information and fun. Happy Birthday Steve!

Sept 4- Whitney
She's 1! She's beautiful and I can't help but smile when I see her. Her eyes are gorgeous and she's so much fun to play with. Happy Birthday Whit-wher!

Sept 9- Brian
I love you so much! I am proud of you! And I want you to know that I am by your side no matter what! Happy Birthday!

Sept 16- Allee
8 Years Old. WOW! She's so grown-up. Like her mom says "8 going on 18." Happy BIrthday!

Sept 19- Daddy
My hero. I love you so much! Happy Birthday! You are everything to me.

God Bless America!

2009-07-30T09:18:00.006-06:00

4th of July Festivities
Sorry, the pictures are kindof backwards in events.

We had such a great 4th of July weekend.
On the 4th, we did a big BBQ at my sisters house. We ate, played horseshoes and watched fireworks.
This is me below with my sisters new puppy, Ziggy

In the morning on the 4th of July, we went the parade with Brian's parents and brothers family. It was HOT, but awesome. I love watching those kids.

On the 3rd of July we went 4wheeling near Strawberry. We had a blast. We hiked around a bit and we even ended up on a trail that wasn't really a trail - It was adventurous. I had a great time.

On the 2nd of July, my work girls had a lunch BBQ. Quite yummy. We have so much fun together.

July Birthdays

2009-07-28T09:10:00.002-06:00

July 4th - Happy Birthday Brady Taylor

Brady Taylor is such an amazing person. He has been Brian's best friend almost his entire life. He is a member of the National Guard and one of the sweetest men I know.

July 9th - Happy Birthday Lynn Wood

Lynn is such a great Father. He is a wonderful example and very loving. He gives great advice and tells the best stories. We love you Lynn!

July 14th - Happy Birthday Jeff Wood

Jeff is one awesome dude. We love hanging out with him and his family. He always makes me laugh and is always willing to help.

July 17th - Happy Birthday Liz

My childhood Best Friend -- so many awesome memories with her.

July 27th - Happy Birthday Rachel Cramer

One of the cutest chicks I know. I got to watch Rachel perform this summer and she is such a ham. She is sweet and caring and very loved.

I can't believe you made me do this, Gina!

2009-06-29T13:20:00.003-06:00

This is a tag! A hilarious tag! You have to take a picture of yourself at arms length -right now - no matter where you are. I tag EVERYONE! Show me what you are up to.

This is me, at work, trying to take my own picture on the sly. hahaha - Don't tell anyone I am checking blogs at work. :)

Father's Day Fantastics

2009-06-29T12:52:00.016-06:00

The Saturday before Father's Day, Brian and I went 4-wheeling at Murdock Bay. We rode a couple different trails and then it started to rain. We headed back to the trucks for lunch and it was a down-pour. So we headed home.. .. ..

Brian and I by Lost Lake - Brian used to camp here every year when he was young.

It was really beautiful. There was water everywhere!

On Sunday, we had a BBQ with the Wood Family. This is a picture of Brooklyn, Rachel, Connor and Dusty hanging out on the swing at Grandma's house.

Brian and Steph

Connor Scott

Lynn - all of the brothers and sisters went in together and got Lynn a gift card to Cabela's.

Nieces and Nephews - Trent, Madi, Caden, Ryan, Brooklyn and Rachel

On Wednesday, we had a BBQ at the Dana house. This is me, my sister, my dad, Duece and Ziggy

This is Ziggy attacking the plant.

Brian and Stephanie

Me and my sister playing tetherball. I wasn't very good at all.

Allee Bug

Tyler T

You may have thought I didn't see,
Or that I hadn't heard,
Life lessons that you taught to me,
But I got every word.

Perhaps you thought I missed it all,
And that we'd grow apart,
But Dad, I picked up everything,
It's written on my heart.

Without you, Dad, I wouldn't be
The woman I am today;
You built a strong foundation
No one can take away.

I've grown up with your values,
And I'm very glad I did;
So here's to you, dear father,
From your forever grateful kid.

June Birthdays

2009-06-22T11:55:00.002-06:00

Happy Birthday to my sister, Alisha. She turned 32 this year. She has two beautiful and amazing daughters who keep us all on our toes and are aways making us laugh - just like their mom. She works with babies at the Christ Lutheran school and they all adore her. She is fun and full of energy. You know you'll be smiling when she is around.

Happy Birthday to our nephew, Ryan. He is such a great boy. He excels in sports and has the sweetest smile in the world.

Happy Birthday to SWilkes. I met Stephanie at Remax and loved getting to know her. She was always kind and trying to make everyone happy. I miss seeing her.

Happy Birthday to our sis-in-law, Nan. Nan is one of the coolest chicks I know. She's a photographer, like me - so I love chatting with her about it. She loves crafts too. She loves the outdoors and hunting and horses. She's a fun mom and a great example.

Happy Birthday June Friends and Family!!!

Fun Times in May and June

2009-06-16T10:06:00.006-06:00

Above is a picture of Christa, Kensie and me. We're at Bryce Canyon and trying to look tough.

These are some girls I work with celebrating my birthday with me. They bought cheesecake - gotta love it!

This is Whitney, my neice. She is beautiful. We went to dinner at the pizza factory for my birthday.

I love these flowers. Daisies are my favorite and I thought the coloring on these was awesome.

This is at the Clayton Year End party. It rained, but it was so much fun. These girls are all pretty amazing and I am blessed to know them.

Turning 27

2009-06-02T10:17:00.004-06:00

I have been 27 years old for 2 days now. It's a little odd when you try to ponder about how many years you've been alive. It's made me think a lot about what I've done in those 27 years and what I plan to do in the next 27 years. I've also tried to think about all the great things that have happened in the past year. So... I am going to list 27 things I am grateful for or excited for or have been thinking about...

1. I love photography. It brings so much joy into my life. I love capturing moments that no one wants to forget. I love watching a sun set through the lens of my camera. I love animals. I love children. I love capturing the genuine excitement and love on someone's wedding day. I can't get enough.

2. I am grateful for my nieces and nephews. I am grateful for how loved they can make me feel. I am grateful that every time I see them, my worries drift away. I am grateful for their honesty and their smiles.

3. I am grateful for lessons I've learned this year. One lesson in particular, When you go on vacation, you are there to have fun - so chill. I know things can go wrong sometimes, but when you are somewhere to have fun - laugh it off and keep on going. Don't wind yourself too tight.

4. I am grateful for laughter. I cannot explain how much laughter can make someone's day. If you can put a smile on your face and laugh and joke - I strongly believe your life will be much brighter.

5. I am grateful for good friends. This past year I've realized how awesome my friends can be. There is one in particular that I could call and tell her ANYTHING and I mean, ANYTHING and she'd still love me. I have one friend in particular who gives the best advice. She always knows what to say. And I have another set of friends in particular who would help with anything and always push me along to do things they know I really want to do. :)

6. I am grateful for my parents. I get frustrated sometimes, but when it really comes down to it -- my folks are being darn amazing. I've had scares with both my parents where they were injured or had a very serious issue and I was able to realize how important they truly are to me. My mom and dad give me so much. Not only do I live with them and they feed me, but I learn so much from them. I learn to give 100%. I learn to always help out your friends. I've learned to love your family no matter what, when, where and why. I've learned to take life as it comes.

7. I adore my job. Yes, there are some days I do not want to go, but I really love what I do. I love the design element. I love the customer service element. I love the photography element.

8. I adore my boss. He is one of the best people I know. He is so intelligent. He is sincere. He is hard-working. I consider him a friend.

9. I love the girls I work with - all of them - from every office. That is one thing that makes my job so lovable. The girls are sweet. They make me laugh and they care.

10. I love Clayton Productions. I've been a teacher there for 4 years, but this past year I was also able to be the Assistant Dance Company director. I learned so much. I got to know a lot of the girls and the teachers. I have gained so much this past year. LOVE YOU ALL!

11. I love Christmas. Every year I love it more and more. I love the togetherness it brings. I love the lights. I love the snow. I love the music.

12. Guns. I know how weird you think I am right now. But I am so grateful for my right to bear arms. I love the knowledge I have about shooting. I love going out and shooting targets (like men made out of balloons). I really enjoy the sport.

13. The Outdoors. I feel like that is enough said. Amazing. Beautiful. Inspiring.

14. My Dog. Duece is such a wonderful creature. I cannot explain how many days I come home tired and irritable and his little face turns it all around.

15. Dancing/Performing. It is freeing.

16. Choreography. I love putting dances together and teaching people.

17. I am so grateful that Brian was accepted to pharmacy school this year. He worked so hard and is so deserving.

18. My husband. I'm not sure I can come up with the words to tell you how grateful I am for Brian. I know he loves me and wants the best for me. I know he wants me with him through every part of his life. He can make me feel like I am living in paradise. He truly is my match.

19. Poetry. I love poetry. I love reading it. I love writing it. I love listening to it. I love sharing it.

20. Art - In all forms.

21. The Sun

22. Swimming. I really like the water. I like swimming pools. I like lakes.

23. Rain. Especially lately. I love the thunderstorms. I adore thunderstorms.

24. My garden. Brian and I and my parents planted our first garden together this year. We planted tomatoes (a couple different kinds), cucumbers, zucchini, squash, potatoes, carrots and corn. They are started to come up and I am very excited about that. I LOVE fresh vegetables.

25. My In-Laws. Amazing people. Brian's parents taught us a lot about our garden. Sheila is going to teach me to can this year. Talented and great people.

26. Lazy days. Naps. Cuddling with Brian. Watching our Shows. Listening to Music.

27. Trials. It seems interesting to choose to be grateful for your trials, but you learn a lot about your self when you go through certain things. I hope to continue learning who I am and trying to make myself better.

Thank you! Thank you to all of you who love and support me. Thank you to those who make me laugh. Thank you to those who help me through my day to day struggles and make me feel loved and needed. Thank you for being a part of my life. All of you who read my blog and all of the blogs I read are a part of who I am, the thoughts that run through my head and examples of who I am striving to become. I love my life. I really do. And I hope I am living it as well as I should be.. .. ..

May Birthdays

2009-05-20T16:26:00.003-06:00

I wanted to wish a Happy Birthday to all the May birthdays. I am sorry I don't have a picture of everyone who has a May birthday on my computer :(

May 7th
Happy Birthday Monica
Even though I haven't seen her for a year.:( Just kidding, not quite that long. I met Monica working at REMAX. She was so much fun to work with - I never had a dull day. She's easy to talk to and gives great advice. She is full of life and brings a smile to my face!

May 17th
Happy Birthday Ford
Ford is my very best friends husband. He is one amazing person. I love watching him with his wife. I can tell how much love they have for one another - I just wish I saw them more.

May 19th
Happy Birthday Connor
This little boy is so dang cute. He has the best little grin and the cutest laugh. He is so fun to watch with Brian.

May 20th
Happy Birthday Rich
Rich is one of my most favorite people on this earth - literally. We've become pretty good friends over the years. He is someone I know I could come to for anything (I might get made fun of first, but then he'd help - no questions asked). He's also very talented. He knows so many things and is fun to have conversations with.

May 27th
Happy Birthday Courtney
So beautiful. I feel like I have watched this girl grow up from a distance and she is becoming quite an amazing person. Courtney is very well-rounded. She's fun. She's intelligent. Love you Court!

May 28th
Happy Birthday Bryson
What a tender little boy! His smile is to die for. He is just trying to balance and maybe walk. He is such a good baby. He can brighten anyones day.

May 28th
Happy Birthday Natalie
Natalie is seriously one of the nicest people in the world. She would not hurt a fly and she would help anyone with anything if they needed her. She is also a great mother. I love watching her with her son.

May 31st
Happy Birthday Kristin
I've known Kristin for about 10 years now. She is genuine and awesome. She always makes me laugh. We have some great memories together. :)

I have so many things to blog about, but my time is always limited - so there will be more to come: Mother's Day, Turkey Hunts, Dance Concert, etc.

Allee's Competition

2009-04-28T09:16:00.007-06:00

I went to watch Allee compete again this past Saturday. I could not be more proud of her. She improves every time I see her. I love watching her dance. She has a HUGE grin on her face the entire time. She points her toes and hits all of her moves hard. She is one cute little dancer.

April Birthdays

2009-04-15T10:24:00.003-06:00

Apparently I struggle with remembering birthdays - So I am going to do all April Birthdays together! I hope I am not forgetting anyone :(

Happy Birthday Austin!
Austin is my nephew who lives in sunny St. George. He is a wild man. He has so much energy. He is always good for a laugh and also sometimes he gets really snuggly and I love those moments. He is kind of the class clown, you could say. I admire his thrill for life.

Happy Birthday Claudio!
Claudio is one amazing man. He has been in Brian's life for many many years now. He is very smart and always has a smile on his face. We are proud to have him as part of the family.

Happy Birthday Camilla!
Camilla is my sweet cousin. I have gotten to know her better in the past few years. She is so talented. She is very athletic. And she is an amazing artist. She's so fun to laugh with and play games with.

I hope all of you have or had a wonderful birthday. Brian and I love you all very much!

Absolutely Amazing April

2009-04-10T14:31:00.006-06:00

It's only April 10th and it has been such a great month so far. I am just excited about life again and cannot wait to make the best of everyday.

The picture below is of Brian and I the day we found out that Brian got accepted into pharmacy school. We were so relieved and excited. I was bursting with pride and joy. We went to Red Lobster for dinner with two of our closest friends. They were so awesome to celebrate with us.

Then on Tuesday we went to dinner with another awesome couple - Brady and Brittney. Again we were celebrating Brian's acceptance. All of us are so excited for him. We went out to Moreila's for some Mexican food - Yum! We are so happy that Brady and Britt and back in Utah! Yeah!

This is the night that the Dana girls went to see WICKED! All I can say is: awesome! It was so good. The singing, the acting, the costumes.... Loved it! Thanks for the tickets mom! And thanks for making them accessible Lorna!
And this is our Remax Easter luncheon. We tried a baked potato bar this time and it was a hit. It's so much fun to hang out with these guys. We laugh and chat and joke for about an hour - a little break from reality. Love you Love you Love you!

Last Weekend

2009-04-09T09:23:00.024-06:00

With all my excitement of Brian getting into pharmacy school, I forgot to blog about my awesome weekend! I had such a great weekend.

On Friday night, Steph and I went to our girls solo competition. Steph and Steph! We are the directors of the Clayton Dance Company.

Below is Amanda doing her solo. She got 2nd place.

This is Becca performing her solo. I choreographed this one. She did very well. She took 3rd place.

This is Megan performing her solo. She's been a student of mine for 4 years. She took 3rd.

This is Jessica doing her solo. I choreographed this one as well. She was beautiful. I had the chills. She took 1st.

This is Sarah and Becca doing their duo. They took 2nd. They did great dancing with one another.

This is competition on Saturday. This is my Revolution class dancing their character dance to "You're Not the One." They are so cute. This dance took 1st.

This is Revolution again dancing their jazz dance to "Fast Lane." This dance took 2nd.

This is my Passion class dancing their character dance to "Steam Heat." They did awesome on this dance. It was SO good. They took 3rd.

This is Passion again dancing their jazz dance to "Heartburn." Look at those jumps! This dance took 4th.

This is Passion dancing their lyrical dance to "I Miss Me." Great emotion - they do so well. This dance took 2nd.

This is my Revolution class dancing their lyrical to "Incomplete." A very powerful dance. They took 1st.

Passion -- I love these girls more than they will ever know. I will miss the girls who are leaving to go to college so much! They are irreplaceable.

Revolution -- Look how cute they are. They have all improved so much and I love them dearly.

This was at awards on Saturday afternoon. We were all a little tired.

Saturday night, Brian and I got together with some friends and made Egg people for all of our 20 nieces and nephews. They were so much fun to make and I cannot wait to give them away.

Me and Christa showing off our crafty work.

We did an early Easter dinner with the Dana family because my parents will be in Moab over Easter - jeepin'. This is Tyler T with some Easter candy.

Allee with more Easter candy.

And Taylor. We put curlers in her hair -- cute huh!

What an amazing time. I am surrounded by the best people. I have such good friends. I have a loving family and I have the most wonderful husband. I couldn't be happier!

CONGRATS!

2009-04-06T17:47:00.002-06:00

Congratulations to my husband! Brian is now officially a pharmacy student at the University of Southern Nevada, Utah campus.

Brian has worked very hard and I am so happy that it paid off for him. In three short years, Brian will be a doctor of pharmacy.

Woo Hoo!

4th picture Tag

2009-04-02T09:15:00.003-06:00

Here are the rules:
Go to the 4th file where you store photos on your computer
From the 4th file, choose your 4th photo and post it to your blog
Explain a little about that photo.
Tag 4 people to do the same.

Mine is a sunset picture. We were in Lake Powell last summer. A very memorable trip.

I tag.. .. .. Hmm.. .. .. Brady and Brittney, Kristin and Bridger, The Daltons, Steve and Nan and all others who want to do it.

Goodbye to March 2009

2009-03-31T09:29:00.007-06:00

Today is the last day of March 2009. Goodbye March! Can you believe that it's already three months into 2009? Holy Smokes! Life goes by way too fast.

Below is a picture of me and my friend Jessica. She works with me. We thought we kind of matched. Our Seventies Paisley shirts. We're cute!

These pictures are of Allee's dance competition at Viewmont High last weekend. The picture below is Gracie - Allee's cousin. She was eating a KitKat and it got all over. She was so cute about it.

Allee Bug

This is the dance that Allee has a solo part in - She gets to dance in the middle of the girls and lip sync part of the song. She does such a good job at it. She's quite the performer!

Our Golden Girl

MaRcH mAdNeSs (No, not basketball)

2009-03-26T12:18:00.012-06:00

Here are a few fun activities we had in March

Above is a picture of my Revolution class - performing their 1st Spring show.

This is my Passion class.

This is the class I am a part of -- Dream. An adult class from ages 18-30. It's so much fun.

Here is Allee and I at Starry Starry night. She was so cute when she performed. I can't believe how good she is getting. She's so fun to watch.

Happy St. Patrick's Day at RE/MAX. We had a little work luncheon - so fun. And Christa announced that she is expecting. I am so excited for her!

Brian and I at the March Wood Family Party. Yummy food and great people.

Stephanie and Brooklyn. Isn't she absolutely darling. She is so smart too.

Ahhhh.. Little miss Whitney. Brooklyn likes to call her whip cream.

Bryson - look at those blue eyes.

Viewing the Draper temple with friends. It was beautiful.

Happy Birthday to Hadley, Don & Heather

2009-03-25T08:58:00.003-06:00

Hadley's birthday was on March 11th. She is another niece. :) She is such a funny little girl. Her sense of style is fabulous and she is not afraid to be herself. She always makes me giggle. She loves to snuggle up with her aunts and loves to play games and she can definitely hold her own with her brothers. Happy Birthday Hadley.

Don, our brother-in-law, had a birthday on March 16th. He is such a great man. Brian and Don can talk for hours about hunting and Brian learns so much from him. Don also makes his own knives and they are very cool. Don is also a pleasure to be around, kind to everyone. Happy Birthday Don!

And Heather, our sister-in-law, is celebrating a birthday today. Heather is very talented and is always trying new things. I personally LOVE to try her new recipes. Brian and I love hanging out with Heather and her family. They are very "chill" and we can always just go over and chat and watch TV and play with the kids. Heather is also very good with advice. She can help you try and figure out any problem. Happy Birthday Heather!

Happy Birthday Dusty!

2009-03-24T09:22:00.003-06:00

So many March birthdays and I even missed some. Happy Birthday to my nephew Dustin Cramer. Dusty is one heck of a kid. I just adore him. He is so sweet and strong and determined. Dusty will go far in whatever he decides to do. I used to help Brian babysit Dusty and his brothers when Brian and I were just dating which started when Dusty was just a baby boy. He's always been so caring and loving. Happy Birthday Dusty! We hope you have a memorable birthday...

Happy Birthday Madi

2009-03-23T16:25:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday to my niece, Madison Wood. Madi is one of the sweetest, most tender girls I know. She is kind and loving and absolutely beautiful. Brian and I hope she has a wonderful day and that this coming year brings her all she could ever hope for. We love you, Madi!

Happy Birthday to Jessica (Tomorrow)

2009-03-20T09:32:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday to my friend Jessica (tomorrow)! Jessica was the first person I really met when I started my job at Remax. She was my trainer and a good one at that. Jess is fun and is always making me laugh. She never fails to smile when she says Hello and I love reading her blog. Jess has a darling sense of style, she loves puppy dogs and is a great friend to have. Thanks Jess for making work a great place to be. I hope your birthday is wonderful.

I've Been Tagged - 25 Things About Me

2009-03-06T08:30:00.004-07:00

I am not sure I can think of 25 things that are interesting enough for you to read about, but here we go!

1. I love THUNDER storms. I love them loud, like the thunder is right outside my window. I like the feeling of raw emotion that comes with the rain.
2. I love to be COMFORTABLE. I come home from work and immediately throw on sweats. I adore sweats. And I love to take my make-up OFF.
3. I love PHOTOGRAPHY. I love capturing those moments that you hope can live in your memory forever. I love seeing people smile and the joy in their faces. WEDDINGS are my favorite to do.
4. I love my ALONE time. I like to watch movies, scrapbook, read, take a long bath, walk outside... It doesn't happen often, but I like time to myself every once in awhile.
5. I don't really like ice in water - unless it's the tiny little squares - that ice is AWESOME!
6. I love poetry. I love to read it and I love to write it and I plan on publishing many more books throughout my life.
7. I have read hundreds of books and LOVE reading, but I couldn't tell you which books or who the author was -- I have no memory.
8. I adore SCARY movies! Thrillers, Mysteries, Blood&Guts, Vampires, Zombies -- all of the above.
9. When I was little I loved Barbies and I still think they are one of the best toys ever!
10. I love pasta. I can eat any kind of pasta. I can eat it any time of day. I can even eat it with nothing on it.
11. I love to dance. I love to express myself though movement. I love that I can get a great workout doing something I love so much.
12. I love to TEACH dance. I love sharing my passion. I love gaining friendships. I love laughing with my dance girls.
13. Lately I am addicted to drinks. I am always thirsty and I am always trying new drinks.
14. I love going out to breakfast with my dad. It doesn't happen as often as I'd like, but it's one of my favorite things to do with him.
15. I adore my nieces and nephews. They seriously are a light in my life. If I am ever having a bad day, I look at pictures of them and I instantly have a smile on my face. During some of the hardest times in my life, It was my nieces and nephews that gave me the courage and strength to move forward. I knew they loved me no matter what was happening in my life. I'm not sure how I ever made it through without them.
16. I've only been out of the country once - I went to MEXICO when I was 2 years old and my mom never put me down - not once, because she was afraid someone would steal her white, blonde-haired baby girl.
17. I love camping, boating and hunting. I love being outside. I love swimming in lakes. I love fishing. I love curling up on a camp chair and reading a book while listening to the chipmunks chatter. I love the smell of the mountains. I love camping food and I love eating the animals we hunt: elk, deer, quail, pheasants, etc. And I love the quiet.
18. I am a stacker. I stack things all around the house and one day I think - "I better organize." And I spend all day on one little section of STACKS and it usually looks worse before it looks better.
19. If I had the money I would get a massage 2 or 3 times a week.
20. I cannot wait to be a mom. I adore children and I am anxiously awaiting the day that Brian and I can raise our own children. I am excited to see if I have a red head -- only 3 more years hopefully...
21. I want so badly to be finished with school. And even as badly as I want to be done, I do not push myself as hard as I know I could - why is that do you think? I want to get my dumb bachelors degree so I can take classes that actually interest me - like photography and poetry.
22. I am so in LOVE with Brian. I know I don't always show it or say it, but WOW, I am one lucky girl. I am so proud to be by his side.
23. I love my job. Some days I don't want to go - it's true, but I love it. I love the girls I work with. I love my boss. I love taking pictures of houses. I love processing the pictures and I love designing on the computer. I have learned so much there and I am grateful.
24. I cannot wait to have my own house one day and have my own garden. Fresh garden vegetables are one of the best things in the world.
25. I miss my old friends. Sometimes I think about old memories and I wish I could see them and laugh about that memory. And I love my friends right now more than they will ever know. My closest friends right now are my life savors -- I could call Charity and talk to her about anything. Kim is the best at advice and she is ALWAYS on my side and I love hanging out with her. And Christa can make me laugh so easily and I always feel so 'chill' with her - like I know she just loves me for who I am. And thanks to all my other friends who make me smile everyday and are lights in my life.

I tag anyone who wants to take the time to tell me 25 things about themselves!

February Fun

2009-03-05T09:40:00.012-07:00

Below is a picture of our nephew, Connor on February 15th. We had dinner at their house and all the kids (and Jeff) were sick, but we still had so much fun. Kids are so darn cute. This is Connor with his boots and gloves on because he wanted to play outside.

Below are pictures of Courtney's wedding. She and Pat were married at the top of snowbird on February 28th. It was an awesome ceremony and so much fun. It was a little chilly, but beautiful.

Brian and I on the tram riding to the tip top of Snowbird.

The RE/MAX girls...

Steph and Christa... BFF

Courtney and Pat and all their friends...

And below is a picture of our puppy - Deuce. I had just given him a bath. He is so funny afterwards - he rubs his face on the carpet to get the water off - I love it.

Happy Birthday Michelle and Mom

2009-02-23T12:11:00.003-07:00

Happy Birthday to two of the best people I know!

Michelle celebrated a birthday yesterday. She is Brian's sister. Michelle is one amazing person. She is a seamstress like no other - she could make anything and for the past few months she has been sharing her talents with others as a teacher in her neighborhood. Michelle is also an awesome mom. You can tell how much her kids adore her. She is a wonderful example. Michelle was always always always nice to me while I was dating Brian. I was always excited when I knew her and her children would be around. She is truly incredible and we love her more than she knows. Happy Birthday Michelle!

My mom's birthday is today! Sometimes I feel like there are no words to explain my mom. She is truly fantastic. She is always doing something - so busy. She loves being a part of things. She works hard and is determined to do her best. She's a great example in that. She is a great mom and grandma. She is also a wonderful friend and I know a lot of people would be lost without her. I am grateful to her ... Happy Birthday Mom!

A Time to Remember

2009-02-23T09:57:00.007-07:00

So many memories in so little time. I am so glad that I keep my camera with me so I can always have these memories.

This is a picture of my two cute nieces , Allee and Tyler, having a sleepover at Grandma's house in their new pajamas.

This is one of the dance classes I teach - Revolution. Such cute girls...

And this is Courtney's work Bridal shower. She's getting married this weekend... She's awesome and I am way excited for her!

And here is Brian and I on Valentine's.
What an adventurous day!
We started the celebration with lunch at Do Do's with Weston and Christa. Yummy! The we went to the Museum of Natural History - Picture Below. So cool... loved the spiders. Then we went to Synders and bought some lamb and spare ribs. Then off to Harmons for other treats. Then the boys made us a candle lit dinner which was fabulous - lamb is good. And we watched Madagascar 2. AWESOME!

Our Valentine's Gifts!

2009-02-19T09:36:00.003-07:00

So I wanted to tell everyone what Brian and I got for Valentine's and then later I will post about our cool Valentine's day activities. We were very practical and got something we both really wanted/needed.

Brian got me this awesome workout DVD set of Jillian Michaels workout. Jillian (if you didn't know) is a trainer from Biggest Loser and I love her tactics. She's very tough and would kick my trash if she was my trainer. I have a goal to workout at least 5 hours a week, so I am VERY excited to incorporate these new DVD's into my routine!!!

I bought Brian this Baby Hoochie Mama Elk call for hunting.The Baby Hoohcie is smaller in size and is good at producing those authentic sliding notes that are so characteristic of cow elk. Brian has wanted this call for a little while and I was excited to give it to him - Watch out Elk, Here we COME!

Some New Memories

2009-02-03T09:24:00.006-07:00

This first picture is Tyler on her 6th birthday. We had such a fun day. Tyler had a High School Musical Make-over Party and I was the hair stylist. Her friends got their hair done, make-up done, nails painted and played dress-up. Then Tyler had her family over for pizza, ice-cream and cake. She's such a wonderful little girl.

Here is my niece Taylor in December. She was SO tired of taking pictures.

The next two pictures are Allee and Tyler - Blowing kisses :). Dreams are a wish your heart makes!

Join Me

2009-01-30T10:26:00.001-07:00

Join the March for Babies 2009!

The event is on April 25th
1355 West 3100 South
Registration at 9AM
Walk at 10AM
3 miles

Every year, more then half a million babies are born too soon. Many of those babies will face serious lifelong disabilities like blindness, cerebral palsy and lung disease. We can help by joining this March for Babies. When we join - we are supporting all babies - those born healthy and those born sick!

Join my team: Chicks for Babes
Go to marchforbabies.org/joinus

When it comes to the team part, pick Chicks for Babes.
I put our fundraising goal at $25.00 and hopefully we can do more than that.

I'd love to walk with you in April. Let me know if you have any questions. Once you join you will be sent an information package.

Please invite anyone you think would like to participate to join us!

Please Donate!

2009-01-30T08:38:00.002-07:00

KBull 93 is doing a Huntsman Cancer Institute marathon all day today and tomorrow (January 30-31). Please call 877-332-Hope and donate. Even if it's only $5. It's almost inevitable that someone in our lives will be touched by cancer. Help them find a cure!

Much love!

Happy Birthday Nicole!

2009-01-23T12:14:00.002-07:00

Today is my sweet nieces birthday. She turns 21! Yes, I have a 21 year old niece. She is pretty amazing. She lives in St.George and is working toward pharmacy school. She is sweet and strong and has so much integrity. I love her so much and I wish I got to see her more often. Happy Birthday Nicole!

I Need Your Help!

2009-01-20T09:17:00.002-07:00

As most of you know, I am the Productions Manager and Photographer for a Marketing Company in Salt Lake.

We are starting a new project of recipe cards filled with favorite recipes from band members, singers, business/restaurant owners, chefs, people in the public eye, policemen, firemen, celebrities, professional dancers, etc,etc,etc.

I was wondering if you or someone you know would like to participate.

Recognition will be given on the card and we could put a website, address or phone number on there if they'd like.

These cards will be sent all over Utah, so your name will be promoted - Free of charge.

I would need your favorite recipe, a picture of you or the recipe and a little bit of information about who you are.

Let me know if you would like to participate.

Thank You!

You can email me at orders@3sixtyonline.com

Happy Birthday Tyler!

2009-01-16T09:42:00.002-07:00

Today is my niece's 6th birthday! Tyler is one amazing little girl. She has the best personality. She is very lovey. I can cuddle with her for an entire movie. She loves to color and now her favorite thing is to write everyone's name - "Aunt Stephie, How do you spell your name?" She loves mac-n-cheese, chicken nuggets, pizza with ranch and cottage cheese. She is trying to eat healthy though. :) She loves to dance and she loves to sing. I love having her in my life. She's such a joy!

New Years!!!

2009-01-13T19:00:00.003-07:00

We had the best New Years! We hung out with two of the best people we know. We ate yummy food, played games, watched movies and went shooting. Our festivities lasted ALL weekend!

What Have You Done?

2009-01-12T13:38:00.002-07:00

Copy and paste this to your blog and bold the ones that you HAVE done.

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie/commercial
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
98. Owned a cell phone
97. Been involved in a law suit
99. Been stung by a bee

Goodbye 2008

2009-01-08T11:25:00.013-07:00

Here's to 2008 and all the marvelous memories we made. I am sure I will forget a few things, but here are some pictures remembering 2008.

This is my niece, Tyler, turning 5 in January 2008. I adore all my nieces and nephews. They are seriously a light in my life that keeps me motivated and determined to be the best I can be.

This was the first time Brian and I went rock climbing (well the second, but the first time was about 10 years ago). This picture also represents the amazing friendship we gained this year.

Here's to a great job and many friends!

Ahhhh, my parents at Starvation. Two of my favorite things. We've been living with my parents for 2 years now and they have be fantastic. They are always there for us and we've become quite close.

This is a picture of me and my 2nd cousin, Dayton. I was so excited to have them at my house so I could get to know them. I do not get to see them enough.

Hunting!!! For those who know Brian and I, you know this is one of our favorite things. This is Brian and Bridger on the bow hunt. Brian shot his first turkey this year, but we weren't lucky enough to get anything else.

Oh Miss Whitney. She is my newest niece and was born in September. She is one of the best babies in the world. She is sweet and loving and always makes my heart puff up.

And this is me and Bryson. Bryson was born in May this year, but this picture was in October. He can always make me happy. He also reminds me to have courage and to push through hard times, because his name represents a friend of ours who is fighting cancer and WINNING!

Clayton Productions! This is where I teach dance. These girls keep me young and loving life. They work hard and I love teaching them.

Charity, my cuzzo and me on Thanksgiving! She's a great friend and will always be one of my best!

Christmas is the best time of year! Here is Brian's grandma and 3 of her great grandchildren.

Making gingerbread houses with family.

This was definitely a year to remember. Brian and I are quite lucky!

Christmas Memories 2008

2009-01-05T20:38:00.004-07:00

Christmas this year was fantastic. I am so sad that it is over.

We hung out with family and friends, played games and exchanged gifts!

On Christmas Eve we ate soup, played a couple games and even dressed up to take a big Christmas Picture.

On Christmas day we opened gifts, saw both sides of the family and wished every day could be that wonderful.

We hope you all had a very Merry Christmas!

2008 Performing Season Comes to a Close

2008-12-22T11:23:00.003-07:00

The Clayton 2008 Performing season is over. I am so proud of my girls. They are beautiful and fabulous dancers. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas. Have a wonderful break and I will see you in 2009!

Bandaged and Drugged

2008-12-18T11:14:00.002-07:00

Well, the surgery went well yesterday. It was quite a bit shorter than the last one. His right shoulder had all the same issues as the left shoulder. He had his bone spur ground down, rough cartilage scraped out and his ligament anchored back to his bone. Brian was a lot sicker this time - the drugs did not sit well with him. He was in more pain and was dizzy. He will be in a sling again for 6 weeks and then he'll start physical therapy. We're glad that it's over and hope the recovery goes well.

WEAR YOUR SEATBELT!

2008-12-16T14:13:00.003-07:00

So.. .. .. Today at work I was lectured over and over by many people that I should wear my seatbelt.

I have no idea how we got on the subject, but I mentioned that I never wear my seatbelt. It's not that I don't want to - I just do not remember - ever.

So Holly and Darren and SWilkes were all telling me how I must not love my family enough to be safe and how they don't start their car till the seatbelt is on, etc. And Holly mentioned it to all the agents who walked up the stairs and there I was.. .. .. being ridiculed and lectured. hahaha -

Then I went in for my 15 minute chair massage and came out to a note from my seatbelt on my computer, it said: "Dear Steph, Why won't you wear me! I want to hold you tight! Love, Your seatbelt." That was from Holly :).

And then a few minutes later came an email from SWilkes -- Now she is the office manager and she sends out a daily email to over 100 agents everyday and this email came across as the daily email for 12/16 and this is what it said: "ATTENTION---------------- REMINDER TO ALL STAFF/AGENTS:

In this horrible weather that’s come upon us, PLEASE remember to ‘BUCKLE UP’….
It’s very important that we all do this for our safety.
I know there are some people out there who do not buckle up… (Steph Wood), but from this day forth, I think we should make it our #1 priority to wear our seatbelts!..

We love you and would hate to not have you around!"

But she really only sent it to me and Darren.

I am lucky to have friends that care about me enough to tease me and remind me that I should wear my seatbelt. I vow to make a conscious effort to put my seatbelt on. Thanks guys!

Brian's 2nd Shoulder Surgery

2008-12-16T09:59:00.002-07:00

Brian's 2nd surgery is scheduled for tomorrow, the 17th. The doctors know that they will have to grind down his bone spur and scrap out some rough cartilage, but they won't know if he has a ligament issue until they get in there. We are hoping that the doctors will again be able to use the scope for the entire surgery and not have to cut open the shoulder. We are also hoping that there is less damage to this shoulder (his right) and he will be able to heal faster. Wish us luck!

Ugly Christmas Sweaters

2008-12-11T10:41:00.002-07:00

My coworkers and I wore UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATERS to work yesterday and to our staff Christmas Dinner at Mikado's. We were Hot!

I love these girls. They literally make my weeks so much better. They are all cute and nice and funny. Thanks for your friendships!

Clayton Christmas Dinner

2008-12-10T10:17:00.004-07:00

Me and my Clayton girls went to dinner at Applebee's last night for a Christmas get-together. I love these girls so much.

My Revolution Team - Kimmy is so much fun. She tries very hard and is always willing to work on harder things. She wants her team to succeed. Holly is so sweet. She works very hard and is willing to practice, practice, practice to get something down. Maddie is one of the most beautiful girls ever. She always remembers the dances. She always has a smile on her face and she is always willing to help the girls in her class. Becca is so funny. She always has stories to tell and she is very talented. She's an excellent dancer and only getting better. Kensie (not pictured) is new to Clayton this year and she is adapting well. She tries very hard to pick up on my style of dance and is fitting in just great.

My Passion Team - Megan is a wonderful dancer. She is talented and works hard to become better. She likes to be challenged and is a wonderful leader. Jess can always make me laugh. I love her red-head sassy personality and her beautiful ballet technique. Annie is the "blonde" in our group and I just adore her. She works so hard and is always so busy, She dances beautifully and I love her tons. Aubrey is so dang cute. She seems to improve every week. She works hard no matter what and is another one that constantly makes me giggle.

Much love and Merry Christmas!

A Very Christmas Weekend!

2008-12-09T08:47:00.019-07:00

Wow, What a weekend! We were definitely in the HOLIDAY MOOD this past weekend.
On Friday night we took 3 of our nieces to a Ward Dinner to see Santa Claus and then came and took pictures in front of the Christmas tree.
Then on Saturday, after a huge Open House party, we got together with the Gerrards and the Thackerays to make gingerbread houses and a gingerbread train. I was the only smart one that wore an old T-shirt - everyone else got frosting on their nice clothes :) I love doing these - especially watching the creativity of the kids. It's so much fun to decorate and chow down on goodies at the same time.
Then Sunday was the Wood Family Christmas party. We were all there, including Great Grandma Wood. We had such a good time. There was an over-fill of yummy food. Then we played this game where you had to bend down (without touching the floor with your hands or your knees) and pick up a paper bag with your teeth -- once you get the bag you stand up and tear a piece off the top -- the bag gets smaller and smaller. It was so much fun.
I had one of my best weekends in a long time - PLUS it snowed yesterday. It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!!!

Happy Birthday Cody

2008-12-09T08:44:00.002-07:00

Today is my little brothers 21st birthday. I cannot believe how fast he has grown up. Even though Cody being 21 scares me a little, I love him very much. He can always make me laugh and I know he loves me. Happy Birthday Cody!

Happy Birthday to my Friend, Christa Seiler

2008-12-05T08:37:00.006-07:00

Happy Birthday! I just love your guts. You have been such a blessing in my life. Thanks for being so much fun and becoming such a fantastic friend. I hope your birthday is wonderful and I hope you know how much you mean to me. MUCH LOVE!

A Thousand Years

2008-12-04T14:26:00.003-07:00

RULES:1. Put Your iTunes/Windows Media Player/ETC on Shuffle.2. For each question, press the next button to get your answer.3. YOU MUST WRITE THAT SONG NAME DOWN NO MATTER HOW SILLY IT SOUNDS.4. Put any comments in brackets after the song name.5. Put this on your journal or blog or whatever..

1) If someone says, "Is this okay?" you say: It will not change me

2) How would you describe yourself? You don't Mess Around

3) What do you like in a girl/guy? Fight for all the Wrong Reasons

4) How do you feel today? I Cross My Heart

5) What is your life's purpose? Immortality (hahahaha)

6) What is your motto? No Good Deed

7) What do your friends think of you? Addicted

8) What do you think of your parents? Happy

9) What do you think about very often? The Marrying Kind

10) What is 2+2? Trippin'

11) What do you think of your best friend? Mountain Music

12) What do you think of the person you like? The Bed (Woo Hoo, that's funny)

13) What is your life story? Always (oh, good song)

14) What do you want to be when you grow up? Take Me Home

15) What do you think of when you see the person you like? Proud Mary

16) What will you dance to at your wedding? Go The Distance

17) What will they play at your funeral? Have a Little Faith in Me

18) What is your hobby/interest? To Make You Feel My Love

19) What is your biggest fear? Clap Your Hands

20) What is your biggest secret? Carried Away

21) What do you think of your friends? Walking in the Spiderwebs

22) What song would you play during your first kiss? Breathe

23) What will you post this as? A Thousand Years

Christmas Countdown

2008-12-02T09:52:00.001-07:00

Christmas Countdown & MySpace Layouts

Performance, Thanksgiving and Dress Ups

2008-12-01T09:16:00.006-07:00

First Off, my Clayton dance girls performed for their first time this year on November 25th. They did so well. I was very impressed. They danced beautifully. I love these girls with all my heart. One performance down and 4 to go!

Secondly, Thanksgiving was heavenly. I love turkey - mm mm good. We celebrated with the Bass family this year and we had a good time eating and playing games. Then my family went to see Australia - good flick!

Then here are some pictures of Allee, Tyler and their friend, Skyler dressing up. Aren't they the sweetest.

I hope ya'll had a great Thanksgiving.. .. ..

3 Days of Fun in November

2008-11-25T10:37:00.006-07:00

3 Days of Fun in November (so far):

Taylor's Birthday Party
Taylor turned 1 on October 28th and we had her party in November. She is so darling! She is walking and talking and has the cutest personality. We also got to see my Aunt and cousin, Mary's family - which was awesome because we do not get to see them enough. Mary's boys are darling: Dayton and Gabrielle.

Issac's Baptism
I was invited to my friend, Krista's sons baptism (Did that make sense?). Issac was born in May and was baptised at the Lady of Lourdes church in November. It was a great service, very beautiful.

Singing Program
Allee and Tyler participated in a singing program at their church. They were darling. The knew the song so well and were singing so loud. It's so fun to watch them.

Twilight

2008-11-23T18:02:00.005-07:00

So... I went to Twilight on Friday night and I have absolutely no words to explain my excitement. I almost cannot contain myself. These books and now the first movie tear into the deepest parts of soul. Believe me, I know how cheesy this sounds, but I adore this story. I drove to the District with Christa and we looked around at all the vendors there - so many cool things. Then we ate and met up with all my cousins. I got to sit by Charity and we were very excited the entire show. Thank you for the invite, Catrina and Thanks for coming with me, Christa and thanks for being there next to me, Charity. Woo Woo!

Update on Brian's Shoulder

2008-11-17T14:08:00.002-07:00

So... as most of you know Brian had surgery on his left shoulder. He had a bone spur shaved off, rough cartlidge removed and a ligament anchored back to his bone. He has been in a sling for 6 weeks now with very minimal movement of his left arm.

Well, he went to the doctor today and WOO HOO.. .. .. No more sling! He starts physical therapy with TOSH next Monday.

Surgery on his right shoulder is scheduled for December 17th as of now. We are hoping for a faster recovery on this one because it is his dominant arm and is more likely stronger.

Happy Birthday Jonathan

2008-11-14T10:35:00.003-07:00

I know this is about a week late, but we wanted to wish Jonathan a Happy Birthday. It was on the 8th of November. Jonathan is such a great brother. Every time I see him he asks about my life and what's going on and how me and my family are doing. He's also a great father. I admire so many things about how he raises his children and I hope to remember those things when I have my own children. Happy Birthday Jonathan and we wish you the very best because that's what you deserve.

In Addition

2008-11-11T11:03:00.001-07:00

I'd like to add Ben Barnum to my list as well.

Take a look at Julia (Barnum)'s blog on my list.. She's blogged about her brothers experiences in Iraq.

We are all so blessed!

Happy Veterans Day!

2008-11-11T10:45:00.002-07:00

I just wanted to take this time to thank our troops, present and past. I am so honored to know that there are those who give their lives for my freedom. What a wonderful country we live in!

Here are some of the people Brian and I personally know that have served and we thank them from the bottom of out hearts:
* Sam Dana
* Lynn Wood
* Marty Taylor
* Buck Taylor
* Brady Taylor
* Scott Fritche
* Nick Lyon

THANK YOU!

What Made You Smile Today?

2008-11-05T14:29:00.002-07:00

Things that made me smile today...

1. Waking up to snow falling

2. Hearing Christmas music on the radio. I LOVE CHRISTMAS!

3. Being able to wear long sleeved clothing

4. Chatting with Kristi - She always makes me giggle

5. Having a good conversation with Kim - where we agreed on everything (Love that)

6. Getting one step closer to having my Christmas shopping done

7. Waking up and seeing the lights and Christmas tree up in our room and loving how dorky we are

8. Getting Halloween pics from friends

9. I get to do Power Flex tonight

10. Looking out the window and it's still snowing at 2:30 PM

What made you smile today?

Happy Halloween!

2008-11-03T11:23:00.007-07:00

We had such a fun Halloween this year.

First, everyone at REMAX dressed up and we had a soup luncheon that lasted most of the day (haha).

Then Brian and I went to see Allee and Tyler. Allee was a baseball player and Tyler was a cop.

Then we went to Red Lobster (YUMMY) and then we went to Holly's party and had a blast.

Woo Hoo!

Clayton Master Class

2008-11-03T11:18:00.004-07:00

I took a Master Class with some of the Clayton dancers - taught by an old Drill girl of mine - Mindy! It was fantastic. I loved dancing the combination she taught. She did a wonderful job! I still love dancing as much as I ever did.. .. .. Thanks Mindy!

Baby Taylor

2008-11-03T11:15:00.002-07:00

Here's to our little TROLL niece.. .. ..

Doesn't she look like those troll dolls we used to play with?

Pumpkins!

2008-11-03T11:06:00.005-07:00

We got to do pumpkins with both sides of the family this year.

We went to Lynn and Sheila's and carved pumpkins with the WHOLE family. Then we had a pasta feast, which was wonderful! It was SO nice to hang out with everyone.

We also painted pumpkins with Allee and Tyler. They were so funny and wanted to paint EVERY side.

Tag From Sheena

2008-11-03T08:27:00.002-07:00

Its the game of blog tag!!! I was tagged by Sheena.

For those of you that I tag, here are the instructions. Copy the post, paste into a new post, and fill in your answers. Then you get to tag people!!!

I am... tired and cannot wait to finish school.
I know... that I have the best family in the world.
I want... Brian to get into pharmacy school this year.
I have... so many blessings in my life.
I wish... that these last classes of mine will go by quickly.
I hate... when people leave their blinkers on.
I miss... my grandma.
I fear... clowns.
I feel... like I have too much to do.
I hear... the hum of Big Bertha behind me.
I smell... rain.
I crave... sleep.
I search...for ways to make the world better.
I wonder... if life will turn out the way I expect it to.
I regret... not spending more time.. .. ..
I love... my wonderful family and friends.
I care... to see my family as happy as they can be.
I always...worry too much.
I am going...to push myself.
I believe...that life is what you make it.

I tag - anyone who will do this!!!!!!!!