J & J

Merry Christmas

2011-12-16T16:33:00.000-08:00

Two Games Left

2011-10-17T09:56:00.000-07:00

I know all I do is post Football pictures but really that's been our life around here. Last year with one boy in football it wasn't. But with the two boys in football it's all we do. I even have to admit that on Friday night when there is no football for the boys we go over to Olympus and watch the High school games. This past Friday was the best game ever. (Olympus beat Skyline)

And Yes That miss E in a cheerleader outfit. She is going to be one for Halloween. So I figured lets do it right and get one you can wear to the games. She loves it and has been wearing it every chance she gets. :) Best $ I ever spent on a Halloween costume.

Football for now

2011-09-29T21:22:00.000-07:00

Well Right now we are mid way though the season and I already feel way to tried. M is loving every minute. And Mr. H is now "hitting like a man" or so his coaches say. Hopefully everyone will enjoy the rest of the season. :)

Happy B Day H

2011-09-15T13:17:00.000-07:00

Oh how time goes by and how you've grown. Happy, happy birthday my 12 year old.

Football, football and more football

2011-09-15T13:08:00.000-07:00

The weeks are flying by, I can't believe it! Maybe it is because every Sat. we are at a football field. We show up to set up fields, take down fields and Joel to get trained as the new treasure. It seems like only yesterday school began. The kids are happy and very busy. My favorite day has now become Friday. (Not one child as any lesson or place they need to be at.) Both boys have enjoyed playing football. We are only up to 5 chiropractor visits and one insta care between the two for there football injuries. So here is hoping the rest of the season goes as smoothly, because we are half way though. Here are some recent pictures of last Sat. game. "M" is number 42 and "H" is number 6.

Pre Season Games

2011-08-29T13:55:00.000-07:00

I can't even begin to tell you what an amazing day yesterday was! Yesterday my boys did a wonderful job blocking, hitting, sacking and one of them got a touch down! (when you are playing defensive end and you are able to get a touch down that is a rare and wonderful thing!) Thanks to my family who came out and was able to cheer on "H". Both boys won their games against Riverton, so even with it being a really long day it was a great one. (I have a lobster sun burn to show how long of a day it was.) So for the next few months football will become the main focus around here! GO TITANS!!! "M" IS # 42 AND "H" IS # 6

Trumpets, football dreams and J's Birthday

2011-08-08T12:41:00.000-07:00

I am still trying to catch up over the last few months, so here goes. :) "H" Played in the school band this past year. I guess the band is cool in 5 and 6th grade. I wonder if it still is nerdy when you get to high school? of all the things to play "H" chose the Trumpet. It drove me crazy, when he practiced. And as soon as school was over we toke it back. :) I wonder if I'll be picking up another one in a few weeks or if he'll want to play... I don't know I hoping for the drums!
"M" and a friend went to the Big Dreams Football camp at East High in July and had a great time. They got to meet NFL player and he even got his ball signed. (Thanks NFL for the lock out, or that would have never happened.)
"J"''s B day was the end of June and I think the best thing of the hole day was his Cake. It was gone that night. And looking at the picture now makes me want to make it again. The picture of the hands all around his head is a Ballstaedt family tradition. So can you tell how old he is? I think we got the right amount of fingers in there.

A day for a parade

2011-08-05T10:10:00.000-07:00

July was our parade month. Miss E wanted to be in the local Millcreek parade with her Dance Studio, and both E and H got to walk in the Day's of 47th Children's Parade. We did the fireworks and then went to fireworks, we did get rained on, but that was ok.:)

Welcome Back :)

2011-08-03T13:10:00.000-07:00

Yes I toke a hiatus, but have now decided to come back to the blogging world. Basically the other night I couldn't sleep and I ended up with my I Phone under the covers so the light would not bother my hubby. I ended up reading the past few years post. (I was so glad I had jotted a few things down and posted some pictures.) So I am back at it so I don't forget thoses moments.
Jan and Feb- "M"Played Basketball on two different teams, until he broke his thumb at practice. The break was into the growth plate, so he was out for the last few games of the season in march. ;(
"H" had skiing lessons In Jan and Feb too!
April-" E" performed in CBT show at Kings bury Hall "Secret Garden". She was amazing, and loved it.
The Boys have had three weeks worth of basket ball camps, and a week of football camp, so I feel like a taxi driver between them and "E" dance and tumbling lessons. June has gone by in the blink of an eye.
"J" and I have been working very hard in the yard and garden. We've just finished all the DVDs for CBT and I feel like we can now enjoy the rest of the summer.:)

I want to get out :)

2011-02-22T16:23:00.000-08:00

I've has sick kids for the last 5 days! It's gone though every one of them and now I am dying to have a day without any one needing any extra love because they feel so bad. So if you're sick please stay at your house and come over another time. Because I don't know if I can handle any more days trapped inside.

Basketball here we come

2011-01-16T14:43:00.000-08:00

Basketball is M's other love besides football. So with that said he is on two different Basketball teams which keeps us very busy though out the week and on Sat. He loves it, and hopes to have another grow spurt really soon so that he can keep playing forward and center. ( Goal height for M is at lest 6 feet 3 inches, reality might be something very different, but what can ya do..)

Christmas Catch up

2011-01-16T14:25:00.000-08:00

My Favorite things about Christmas this year....

I love the spirit that just seems to be present during the month of Dec. (no not one with people fighting over consumer goods.) The spirit of love, joy and peace that most people treat each other with during the month.

Coming up with gifts for someone who is hard to give to. (that is usually my Dad and Joel's Dad.) I don't think I got Joel's Dad anything wonderful this year, but I think I did with my Dad. Around Thanksgiving I start wondering what I should give, well this year it only took a week or so and then it hit me. My dad does not have a great amount of pictures from his childhood. So I called up my Uncle Mark and he sent me a disc of everything he had on that side of the family. It was so much fun to see all the pictures! (there were so many I had never seen. Honestly when everything was said and done I think my Dad's gift was really for me too! I made him a book (thank you Costco:) ) that printed all the pictures of him and his parents I could find. I loved it. I hope he did too. I've posted some of the pictures I liked best. I love the one of my Grandparents where he is looking at her. I just think she was beautiful and he was handsome. Also a few of my Dad as a kid and in the Army.

My hubby had a week off. Joel has not had a week off solid for I don't know how long? So thank you Rob the boss for going and climbing a mountain in Brazil. (that's how Joel got a week off.) I hope you go on a few more climbing trips this year.

Like a kid in the candy store.

2010-12-19T22:06:00.000-08:00

So it is rare to have a day or two to myself. But with the kids in school for the next few days, and I am out, I have decided to have at least one of those day be a book day. I love to read! (and I really will read almost anything.) Anyways while planning this week I had way to much fun at the library. I love the library or even a book store. I feel like a kid in the candy store and want it all. I came home with 6 books and 4 more on hold waiting for me for another time. I think I am going to need more than a day, and may be enjoying a few late nights. :)

On another note, I saw Inception last night on DVD and thought it was great! So if you find yourself wanting to watch a flick or needing a movie while you do all your wrapping I would recommend it.

Christmas cards

2010-12-10T07:38:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I made up our christmas card around thanksgiving and still need to print it. I 've been debating on how many to order and send out. Also I am not sure I am in love with the back. But here it is. Merry Christmas.

Full Circle

2010-11-28T20:30:00.000-08:00

Last week I was able to see one of the sweet families I meet and baptized on my mission. It was great to see them, but even better was why they were here. There oldest son, who was 7 when I meet them years ago. Was being sealed in the Salt Lake Temple. How grateful I am that I was able to see this sweet wonderful family learn about the gospel of Jesus Christ, and now years later see the effect of the Saviors Teachings.

Football Champions

2010-11-18T15:39:00.000-08:00

Mr M's Team was 12 and 0. They won there Championship game against Alta. It was a great season. I love football and was so excited for him to play. Thanks to all the family support who came out and watched his games. :) We are already counting down till next year.

Neighbors

2010-09-26T12:23:00.000-07:00

So last night was a gathering for the lower half of the street I live on. We had not had one for a few years and they had been so fun in the past I was excited to go. Shortly after I arrived an older and wiser (but by all means not tact full) neighbor came up to talked to me. She told me how she has been meaning to come up and talk to me for days because of how my daughter rides her bike. Yes she wanted me to know our child was not be careful or safe. Now let me just state I really appreciated being told my child was in possible danger. It was hard to take as she called my child an "airhead" and a few other negative adjectives. I thanked her for her concern and then promptly left the party. I was about ready to lose it and figured I needed a time out. I came home all sorts of mad, and turned on the TV to find Women's conference on and the talk by Pres. Monson was just what I needed.
The funny thing is I really am glad to know about my child's bicycle safety issues. What was upsetting was the manner in which I was told and the words used.
So next time I tell you something not so positive about your child, make sure I do so in a positive manner. :) Or you can just remind me of this experience and I'll close my mouth.

Miss E's Baptism Photo's

2010-09-16T13:03:00.000-07:00

Back in July we had Miss E's pictures taken down at Temple Sq. I really wanted to make a big deal out of being baptized. (I wish I would have thought of this years ago, and done it for the boys.) Anyways I thought I would post a few. :) One of my fav's is the one with the CTR ring. It was made for me by my dad years ago and I let E wear it that day. (one day it will be her's I just think she needs to be alittle older before it is offically passed down to her. ) Thanks to Marykim photography for the beautiful pictures of my 8 year old.

Matilda Jane

2010-09-08T10:19:00.000-07:00

Matilda Jane, Nope it's not a name of anyone one in my family, It is the cutest clothing for 6 months to Adult.

My bff Noelle turned me on to the company a few months ago. So I wanted to pick some fun items up for miss E and myself, (cause before you know it Christmas will be here!) but you can't order online unless you have a trunk keeper. Anyways long story short, I am having a trunk showing on Sept 21st from 6 to 8 pm for anyone who would like to pick up an item or two, or just come on by to hang out. :)

Here are some pictures, so you can get an idea of the the clothes will look like.

You can also go online to Matilda Jane.com to see all of there line for baby, girl, teen and adult.

If you can't make it to the trunk show and would like something just let me know. :)

Happy B Day J

2010-06-12T15:46:00.000-07:00

Wow this past week we celebrated J's birthday! I can't believe your half way to 76! Thanks for being such a great Dad and Hubby!

simple enjoyment

2010-06-12T15:34:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things to do is read, oh how I love a good book! I haven't had time in forever to read like I would like too! But now that school is out I found my self one night grabbing a book J had picked up at the good old library for me. It is call the Last Painting by Jonathan Harr. I sat down to read in bed while everyone was brush teeth and doing there night time routine. After reading a few chapters I had to read the back jacket to find out if I was reading fiction or true events. It is not fiction, but I love the way the author wrote the book, I loved learning about the artist and more about the art world. I finished it in one evening. Yes when the house is quite and everyone was in bed I got lost in the book and when I was done was surprised to find it was 2:00 am I loved it! It is now one of my new favorite books, and also art works. The book basically deals with a lost piece of art work call the taking of Christ, by Caravaggio

My Munchkin

2010-05-22T19:55:00.000-07:00

This Post is way past due! Miss E was a Munchkin for CBT's The Wizard of Oz this year. She loved it! And So did We!!! We really appreciated all the family and friend support who came, so Thank you! (it really means a lot to her)

So my Tinny Dancer I can't wait till next year to see how amazing you are again on stage.

I could have Danced all night.....

2010-04-24T09:19:00.001-07:00

Last night was so wonderful! I still have a grin on my face from the events. :) Our special ed kids from Brighton had a great time, but I think I had a better time then they did. I got to see there faces light up as they went to dinner, and to the Dance. Each expression was so joyful and happy. I loved seeing them interact with there classmates and others. It was one of those perfect nights of joy, and I am so thankful to all those who helped us get there. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU! I can't wait for next year. ;)

CBT & The Wizard of OZ

2010-04-13T16:34:00.001-07:00

I am so excited for the next few weeks! Yes it's that time of year again when Children's Ballet Theatre puts on there performance at Kingsbury hall. I think it just reminds me of so many past years growning up and the performances I was able to be in. E is also can't wait! She is a munchkin this year. I love that over the next few weeks I get to be a part of it, I love the energy in the studio and being able to capture it! I also love filming every performance. :) So if you have some time the last week in April come on up to Kingbury Hall, it was amazing last year!

St. Geroge again, and more Swimming!

2010-04-05T13:30:00.001-07:00

We ran our last race for the runners series that gets us into the St. George Marathon a few weeks ago. St George was great weather and a fun little get away! The kids only had one thing on there mind and that was the pool they didn't care if it was the indoor or outdoor one just as long as they could spend at least 1/2 the day there. We did mange to go a small hike.

I love St. George, I keep joking with Joel that we should move there.
H's Swim team!(Is the last picture.) We love the Dolphin's and the coach's. He is working hard, his new goal is to go to state in the long course.

Are you up for Prom

2010-03-24T15:51:00.000-07:00

So today while traveling back from a field trip "I had a idea! "(Yes my husband sometime will roll his eyes when I say those words! And believe me when I called and told him, he so did this time.) Prom is coming up at Brighton High School and our cute students in special ed. need to go! Now the tricky part how to plan it, get approval from the district! Why the big push to get the kids to a dance? Well out of 17 students only 1 of the students has ever gone to a dance before. ( I know some of us may not have all to fond memories of our high school dances, but if you knew these kids you would feel the same way I do!) THEY JUST HAVE TO GO! I mean who goes to high school and never goes to a dance? So now it's how to get the kids there, funding for the dinner and dance tickets, and having everyone in Sunday or formal wear, or helping to make sure they have those items. :) Just thinking about the kids dressed up and dancing makes me all sorts of happy and gives me the giggles. :) So if you have any ideas,please let me know.
**YES I have an update, we got approval!
So Jr. Prom here we come!***

Zumba Anyone?

2010-03-15T15:42:00.000-07:00

Ever heard of Zumba? It's amazing! I've done it for a few weeks now and love it!
Zumba is a style of intense dance-aerobics workout with pulsating Latin music. It reminds me of my dancing days. So if you're ever up for a class call me and we'll head on down to the rec.
:)

I love my new Toy!

2010-03-11T15:33:00.000-08:00

I have wanted this item for the last six months, and this past week I finally got it! YEA!!! I couldn't wait to put it on and go down to the gym for a work out! (I wanted to see how many calories I really burn.) Anyways I am having a lot of fun with my new toy! :)

Swimming, Basketball, and a B day party

2010-03-04T09:46:00.000-08:00

H had another Swim meet! And this time he got times for every event he swam!!!(Yep that means he did not get disqualified in backstroke, breast or freestyle) It was a great little meet, and we are so proud of him!:)
M's basketball season began in Dec. this winter and I don't know who thought it would be great to begin Two weeks before Christmas, but if I ever meet them they better run. He just finished his season two weeks ago, and we are now trying to find another camp/league/or team to join because he just can't seem to get enough basketball. If you know of any please help me out and let me know!!!
E’s Birthday party was at build a bear. (best choice I ever made for a place for a party!) Yes I know her birthday is in July, but around here we run late, and so we held celebrated her 1/2 b day. What can I say we are slacker parents when it comes to doing B day parties! She loved it!

Believe it or not….I finally got back to blogging!

2010-02-26T16:33:00.000-08:00

It’s been months since I’ve posted, and I know my Mom has been waiting with baited breath for me to finally do something! So I am back to blogging, and with that I will do a little catch up.
January we had H’s 1st Swim meet of this year, and a race down in St. George with almost of J’s Family.
The Trip down to St George involved J, J and M while my amazing Brother and Sister in-law watched H and E. M got the great opportunity to listen to J’s music choices all the way down to St. George and it was sad for him that she was on a Glee Kick! It was M’s 1st Race and he did great and J did his 1st half marathon. J came in over an Hour earlier then he thought! (which was really sad cause we didn’t get any picture of him out on the course!)
H had done a swim meet last year, but had a better time at this one. (it always helps to have family and friends there.)
H did great. He did get disqualified on his breaststroke because of his flutter kick! So maybe next time he’ll get a chance to race and get a time. 
There is so much more going on but that will have to wait for another time. Just know we are happy, healthy and excited for spring.

Bless all the dear children in thy tender care....

2009-12-22T10:56:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite Hymns is "Away in a Manger"
I love the last verse. So I thought I'd share it with those
of you who might not remember it that well.

Be near me, Lord Jesus I ask thee to stay
close by me forever, and love me, I pray.
Bless all the dear children in thy tender care,
and fit us for heaven to live with thee there.

May each of us remember we are loved by our Heavenly Father and his son. That because of this love, we were given the gift of eternal life. I am so thankful that I know Jesus Christ lives.
Merry Christmas

Two is better than one!

2009-12-18T15:02:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas, I know I sent out cards to a lot of you, but if I've overlooked you, I am sorry and please let us know so I can get you one out next year. This year when designing our Christmas cards we couldn't decide which picture we wanted, so we ended up us with two cards. So do you like the one you got....? Well now you can see both. MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Point of View

2009-12-16T15:14:00.000-08:00

years ago..I mean at least 16 years ago, I was at a store with my mother. We had been to this store a lot, so I knew the cashier and bagers as well. One of the bagers was a special needs child/teen and most of the time I could handle him. One day when he smashed all the bread and talked my ear off, well I had enough! So when I could cut him off, I did, and even worse I then belittled him in front of many people.
My Mother was so upset with me...all she could say was that she hoped "That no one would ever treat any of her children that way" (it was the perfect thing to say.) I was so embarrassed for my behavior and how I had treated this young man who was only trying to be friendly and do a good job with the task he had been given.
I have often though about my awful behavior and wished I could have taken it all back. I also have hoped that no one would ever act this way again towards the young man.

I love my job, I receive more love and positive experiences then I would ever have thought. Today we went on a field trip to Target and a few other stores. It was very fun, but also brought back memories of the day I have shared above. There were a few in the store that were not kind or did not show patience with some of our students. As we got back on the bus, all I could think was how sad it is that those people who were unkind did not know each of these amazing kids, because if they did they would not treat them the way the had.

It all comes down to your point of view! Can you look outside the world you live in and put youself in another shoes? Most of the time our point of view changes when we look outside our own life experiences. So this Christmas when your waiting in line, or driving around town, or just out and about remember to treat those around you like you would want to be treated. I wish people would have acted like that today.

Yea for Ebay..I think

2009-12-08T15:43:00.000-08:00

Today I had to get to work a little early then normal, but I also was watching a item on eBay....of course it ended at the same time I needed to be to work.

I feed my top bid into the computer with 25 min left on the auction and headed to work. (I really wanted this phone, so I was willing to pay a lot. You see pottery barn no longer makes this wall mount phone and so it's slim picks. I have been wanting this phone for over 3 years but didn't want to pay the high price.) anyways I put in an amount that I never thought the bidding would go up to, At 25 min left it was still at $ 41.00.

This is the Text I got from my Hot Hubby letting me know I'd won

"You Won...What the *#!*@ ? "

I am happy I got it, but this should be a lesson to me in the future. When you see something you really like but think it's cost to much you might just want to bite the bullet, you might pay more for it later on eBay. :)

Thanksgiving

2009-11-29T23:40:00.000-08:00

This past week has been full of get togethers. I normal love going out...but I have to say by Sat. I was so happy to just stay home:)
On Tue I was able to see Two old Mission companions....I have not seen them for over 13 years it was so fun and it seemed like hardly any time had passed. So thanks Face book for letting us reconnect!
My Mom and Dad treated us (my siblings and spouses) to a night out and I want to thank them! Although I do have to say, coming down with a sore throat in the middle of a play/Musical is not good. Everyone thought I was so moved I cried...when really I just wanted to get up and get a drink of water because my throat was so dry and it hurt so bad.
Thanksgiving was a wonderful day, and Terri did such a great job of hosting and the food was amazing! We were lucky to have some adult time Friday with the "B" family again and loved hanging out and playing games.
This past week while all the great Holiday events were happening I visited my lovely doctor and found out that I have to switch Med's because of my Liver. So I was order by the Doc to have a flu shot! Of course I got my 1st flu shot in 36 years and it has made me so sick....I've slept a ton and have the worse head cold. It hit so hard today I feel like I've been run over by a large truck! (I knew there was a reason I don't believe in flu shots!) So I am really Thankful for my BODY...and my family this thanksgiving.

I CAN'T MOVE!

2009-11-20T10:23:00.002-08:00

So over the last few months I've been working on losing weight! Anyways this past week I arranged to get together with a trainer from last year (yes she is on the Ballstaedt family side.) I love her and her cute Hubby....but I do have to say I've never been so sore in my life! No they are not like Jillian or Bob...they are kind while they make you feel like 12 min of your life will never end! :) Really I had one of the best work outs I've ever had. Yes my legs felt like jello the rest of the day, and today every muscle on my body doesn't want to move because I'm so sore! (I would have never done that to myself at home, so I now know I am going to be traveling out to draper a lot to keep me working hard!) Really I loved it! So here is my shot out to the world....
Come to crossfit here is there web site http://www.crossfitdraper.com/

I've only ever worked with Nick and Rebecca..but I am sure the rest will make you feel just as out of shape.:) Also Rebecca is a great Nutritionist if you need help in the intake of daily substance issues. And lets face it, I will never view food the same way after working with her (even if I choose not to follow all of her advice.)

I just had to included a picture of them, because let's just face it I have a hard time posting without a picture.

My cute Sister inLaws and there Family!

2009-11-20T09:53:00.001-08:00

So I had one of my cute friends who is the real photographer ask how pictures went the other night.....
I told her and then she asked if I had any up, so I am just showing a couple of C&S cute family!
And I can't do them with out doing J&A too! I swear my Hubby's Family got the Good looking genes!

GNO!

2009-11-19T08:20:00.000-08:00

I am so excited for tonight's Girls Night Out! :) Friends, my fav restaurant (the Dodo) and A chick Flick! I hope it's as good as the trailer lead you to believe.

UP

2009-11-16T08:28:00.000-08:00

Alright, so I know some of you have already seen this movie, but I just saw it!

I LOVED IT......What Movie you ask?

"UP"

It was cute, sweet, and funny.(and yes I even had to choke back some tears.) So if you want to do a movie for Family night put this one on the list!

Lions and Tigers and Elivs Oh My!

2009-11-14T09:45:00.000-08:00

YEA! I posted Halloween before Thanksgiving! :)

So this year M wanted to be the King of Rock ....So we had an Elvis sighting. H wanted to be something creepy....He loved being the Grimm Ripper, and Last but not least E wanted to be Dorthy from the Wizard of Oz. She watched the movie over and over the hole month of Oct. and loved the Toto we got!

My mom and some of the family from my side was able to make it to the parade at school, I loved watching my little nephew's face as he watched the big kids dressed up come by.

Catching Up :) 1st day of School 2009

2009-10-30T15:22:00.000-07:00

WOW! I can't belive how big the kiddo's are getting!
Next thing ya know I'll be watching them go on Missions!

Catching up :) Mt. Timp.

2009-10-30T15:09:00.000-07:00

On Labor Day we went with some of our family and hiked Mt. Timpanogos. The kids had a blast and loved the caves.

The One I liked!

2009-10-30T15:03:00.000-07:00

So last month I took a few pictures of my cute Niece, and I came home and looked at what I had taken....well this is the only one I liked.

My first try

2009-10-19T10:05:00.000-07:00

So I thought I would try to improve on my photography.....Wow I still have so far to go! Anyways last month I was able to shoot as a 2nd photographer at a wedding, then in St. George I toke Brooke's family photos. (I loved at the wedding reception they had the cutest veils for the little girls that came! I think that it made the wedding a hit to those little girls.)

What I've learned.... I know what I like, and I am not there yet! (and might not ever be) :( So I will just envy all those photographers who have great skills.

ST George- part 2 The Marathon!

2009-10-09T15:38:00.000-07:00

So last year I tried to do the Marathon. I really didn't prepare and was only planning on doing 13 miles. (In fact I had Joel and the kids at what I thought was the 13 mile so I could get taken home if I wasn't feeling well.) So of course when I saw them at it was at mile 16 and I was doing OK, so I just keep going. I stoped at Mile 21 and got picked up and put in the car. it was the worse feeling in the world. (yes, I was unprepared but I still felt bad!)

So this year I actually did some training! Lost some weight before the Marathon, and tried to be as prepared as I could!:) (although I still could have done more)

IT WAS AMAZING!!! I LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT!!!! We began early this year so I could be off the course at a fairly decent time. I began with my Dad, and Sister-In-law Brooke. And met Joel at mile 16 where he was with me the rest of the time. The best part of the Marathon was not the finish line. For me it was at mile 21 when I passed where I gave up last year!
In fact it was so wonderful, that I signed up on Monday for the runner’s series so I can be guaranteed a spot in it for next year!
A funny story… I know you're all dying to know, but I was thinking I might be on the course by myself for awhile this year so I purchased a brand new shuffle Ipod. Never fear I didn't even get to use it! I had a great music list and it was all ready to go, but at Mile 1 we decided to use the port a potty and of course...can you see where this is going? Yep as I pulled my pants back up, off popped the shuffle hit the top of the port-a-potty and went straight down! No way was I going in after it! So lesson learned, have someone hold on to your shuffle if it needs to be clipped on to your pants. :)

So my goals for next year's race: finish faster! And Have Mary Kim there to take the pictures instead of Me!!!

ST. George Part 1- Red Cliffs

2009-10-07T14:21:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know we go to St. George every year with the Ballstaedt Family. This past trip was wonderful, we all stayed in a big house and got to hang out for four days, and let the kids play 24/7. I have so many pictures that I am going to do them in parts, , so here is the 1st part of the trip. We went to Red Cliffs to go hiking and let the kids play in the water. Little did I know how gross the water was! And of course all the kids were there and in it by the time I got there!

Back at Brighton High School!

2009-09-17T14:40:00.000-07:00

This past week I received a job at Brighton High School, I am a Aide for a few hours a day for the Life Skills department. When I left work today, the 1st thing I had to do was call Joel and tell him how much I love my new job! Yes it is totally weird to walk around the halls again. I almost expect to see my old high school boy friend coming around a door way, or my favorite teacher coming out of the office.....but it is 2009 so that will not be happening.

Anyways why do I love this job? Because of the students, today I walked into class and one of them yelled my name and told me I looked beautiful! (how can you not have a pick me up, when someone is that excited to see you!) I also got to be there for Homecoming week, and I can't wait to take the Family to the game on Friday! I guess sometimes it's good to go back to where you came from. :)

Family Pictures with Mary at silver lake

2009-09-15T08:56:00.000-07:00

So a few weeks ago we had family pictures taken! This experience was like no other family pictures! Hunter who is normally pretty easy to deal with, especially with Mary, was a NIGHTMARE!!!!(and I am stating this as nice as I can). He was so awful,l and we thought he would chill out eventually. Only he fell in the water and become more upset! Joel, bless his soul realized the only way to make Hunter laugh was for him to fall in the water and get wet too. How right he was, Hunter then chilled out and was OK, so thanks to Joel and Mr. Chicken both saved the day! (you'll understand who Mr. chicken is when you pictures.) All the pictures where taken by Mary Kim Oswald. You can find her at Marykimphotogrpahy.com :)

Christmas Cards....in September

2009-09-13T19:20:00.000-07:00

So I am on the Enrichment committee and for our super sat (which is really going to be a Tue.) in Oct., we each needed to be in charge of one of our crafts! (Yes I know, you are all worried!) But I was not put in charge of the cute wood crafts so all is safe! So what did I choose? Something totally different! Christmas Cards! Yep, it's different, but all you have to do is bring a picture or two on a CD and I insert it in one of the Cards I designed. I spent yesterday trying to get a few samples together, and I thought I would love some feed back, so when I do my next patch this week they look even better! So any thoughts would be so helpful! (also if I've stolen your pictures I am sorry....I should have asked, but I know you didn't want me calling you at Midnight.:)

AMAZING WOMEN

2009-09-04T14:51:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to Teach a Lesson in Church. It was on the Relief Society, and the organization of it. At first when I read the manual I thought mmmm..... This might end up putting people to sleep! But a good friend of mine gave me a few of her books about these women and I totally changed my mind. I have since learned to love and respect these early pioneer women. There deeds and works were for there families, and there community, and they have made a lasting impact that effects every latter day saint women of today. Wither we recognize them or not. Since that lesson I kept reflecting on there life's, but especially one, for some reason she is my favorite! So let me sing/write her praises!

Emmeline B Well

Ever heard of her? I had not until a month ago!

She was amazing! At sixteen years old she had already meet and married the love of her life, during that next year she became pregnant, and Her and her husbands family moved to Navoo IL. At seventeen she had lost her newborn baby boy, her husbands family had moved from Navoo to another state, and her husband left to find work and never returned. she was all alone at the the age of 17. I can not imagine how a 17 year would feel after losing family a baby, and then her husband that she loved. And yet with faith and perseverance she moved on, she married for a second time and had two daughters with Newel K Whitney. But by age 22 was a widow again!

She taught school to support her and her children and after a time, married again to Daniel H Wells and was his seventh wife! It is recorded that his other wives were not kind to her, but she never said a mean word to them. (I honestly don't think I could do that, ...Wait I know I could not!...Wow I guess I've got along way to go! Although I don't have to worry about sister wives.)

During her life she is described as energetic, and intelligent, and yet there's so much more to her!

She loved Pastel colors and would wear them when ever she could. (even when it was not in fashion!) How great is that, she knew what she liked and didn't give a hoot about what was cool or in!

She fought for and believed in the rights of women , in fact one of the quotes that I love from her is

"I believe in women, especially thinking women"

She represent Utah Women in the Suffrage movement, and was in three general relief Society presidency, at age 82 she was called to be the General Relief Society President, and served until she was 93 years old! Can you imagine having that much energy?

Three weeks later she passed away at the age of 93!

When I think of her and her journals and the other accounts I have read of her. I can't help but think She is a Hero, and someone to look up to!

She preserved though heart ache, poverty, and many of hard ships and yet she was one know to be kind , driven, and funny with a wonderful wit. She loved and served her family and friends. She was a doer and a thinker! She was devout to her faith and belief in Jesus Christ. What a wonderful life to look at, and try to pattern after.

So Emmeline, Thank you for inspiring me! You and those amazing women who were pioneers should not be forgotten! As my friend Lori said "they are more then just a black and white picture with a somber face!" How right she is, they are so much more!

The 1st picture is Emmeline as the Editor to the Women's Exponent. The Second is with her sister wives, and the last is when she was 82 and called as President of the General Relief Society! (Notice how light/pastel her dress was, because it looks white!)

Hobble Creek Race...or should I say walk

2009-08-27T14:33:00.000-07:00

So this past Sat. I did the Hobble creek half Marathon. Yes I know, what is the thought process for someone to do that....Well, I always think it will be a great motivator to lose weight. (so far it has not been.) Anyways, last year when I did a half marathon it was good, Hard, but good. This year was just plain awful! The course was easier then last years and the temp. was really nice , and Janice was there to make me laugh, but by mile 9 I just wanted to be done! My knee hurt so bad that the last few miles I wanted to sit down and cry. (which is very odd for me, because those of you who know me, know how much I hate crying.) I also think I was way slower then last year and that's frustrating. Anyways I just thought I would post this because if I don't I'll have no record of it.

I also am laughing at the pictures of us! It was really early in the morning and man..I just didn't care what I looked like!

Emma's Ballet Pictures

2009-08-27T14:24:00.000-07:00

So I did a trade with CBT's Photographer Dave Orlob (Pointes in time photography) and I received my pictures today! Yes I had forgotten they were up at CBT. So Here is our amazing Daughter in her Maypole dancer outfit

THE BOOOK LIST?

2009-08-05T09:23:00.000-07:00

I am sure a lot of you have seen the BBC Book List, I can't find the original source .....but it is still an interesting exercise to see how many you have read.
BBC claims most people have only read 6 of the 100 books on the list. (which I think, if true is frighting! Are these people living under a rock, did they not go to high school ? Because some of these were assigned reading when I went to school....back in the day.)
Anyways...
Instructions:

1.) Bold those you have read and put an X by them
2.) Star the ones you loved*
3.)Italicized those you plan on reading

001 Pride and Prejudice-Jane Austen (X)

002 The Lord of the Rings- JRR Tolkien (X)

003 Jane Eyre- Charlotte Bronte(X)

004 Harry Potter Series- JK Rowling (X) *

005 To Kill a Mockingbird- Harper Lee (X)

006 The Bible (X) *

007 Wuthering Heights- Emily Bronte (X)

008 Nineteen Eighty Four- George Orwell

009 His Dark Materials- Philip Pullman(X)

010 Great Expectations- Charles Dickens

011 Little Women- Louisa M Alcott (X)

012 Tess of The D'Urbervilles-Thomas Hardy

013 Catch 22- Joseph Heller

014 Complete Works of Shakespeare

015 Rebecca- Daphne Du Maurier (X)

016 The Hobbit- JRR Tolkien (X)

017 Birdsong- Sebastian Faulks

018 Cathcher in the Rye- JD Salinger

019 The Time Traveller's Wife- Audrey Niffenegger

020 Middlemarch- George Eliot

021 Gone With The Wind- Margaret Mitchell (X) *******

022 The Great Gatsby- F Scott Gitzgerald (X)

023 Bleak House- Charles Dickens

024 War and Peace- Leo Tolstoy

025 The Hitch Hiker's Guide to the Galaxy- Douglas Adams

026 Brideshead Revisited- Evelyn Waugh

027 Crime and Punishment- Fyodor Dostoyevsky

028 Grapes of Wrath- John Steibeck

029 Alice in Wonderland- Lewis Carroll

030 The Wind in the Willows- Kenneth Grahame

031 Anna Karenina- Leo Tolstoy (X)

032 David Copperfield- Charles Dickens

033 Chronicles Of Narnia- CS Lewis

034 Emma - Jane Austen (X)

035 Persuasion- Jane Austen (X)

036 The Lion, The witch and The Wardrobe, - CS Lewis

037 The Kite Runner- Khaled Hosseinni (X)

038 Captain Corelli's Mandolin- Louis De Berniere (X)

039 Memoirs of a Geisha- Arthur Golden (X)

040 Winnie the Pooh- AA Milne (X)

041 Animal Farm- George Orwell (X)

042 The Da Vinci Code- Dan Brown (X)

043 One Hundred Years Of Solitude- Gabriel Garcia Marquez

044 A Prayer for Owen Meaney-John Irving

045 The Woman in White- Wilkie Collins

046 Anne of Green Gables- LM Montgomery (X)

047 Far from the Madding Crowd- Thomas Hardy

048 The Handmaid's Tale- Margaret Atwood

049 Lord Of the Flies- William Golding

050 Atomentment- Ian McEwan (X)

051 Life of Pi- Yann Martel (X)*

052 Dune- Frank Herbert

053 Cold Comfort Farm- Stella Gibbons

054 Sense and Sensibiltiy- Jane Austen (X) *

055 A Suitable Boy- Vikram Seth

056 The Shadow of the the Wind- Carlos Ruiz Zafon *

057 A Tale of Two Cities- Charles Dickens ***

058 Brave New World- Aldous Huxley

059 The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time- Mark Haddon

060 Love In The Time Of Cholera- Gabriel Garcia Marquez

061 Of Mice and Men- John Steinbeck

062 Lolita- Vladimir Nabokov

063 The Secret History- Donna Tartt

064 The Lovely Bones- Alice Sebold (X) *

065 Count of Monte Cristo- Alexandre Dumas (X) *

066 On the Road- Jack Kerouac

067 Jude the Obscure-Thomas Hardy

068 Bridget Jones's Diary- Helen Fielding (X) *

069 Midnight's Children- Salman Rushdie

070 Moby Dick- Herman Melville

071 Oliver Twist- Charles Dickens

072 Dracula- Bram Stoker

073 The Secret Garden- Frances Hodgson Burnett

074 Notes from a small Island-Bill Bryson

075 Ulysses-James Joyce

076 The Bell Jar- Sylvia Plath

077 Swallows and Amazons- Arthur Ransome

078 Germinal- Emile Zola

079 Vanity Fair- William Makepeace Thackeray

080 Possession- AS Byatt

081 A Christmas Carol- Charles Dickens

082 Cloud Atlas- David Mitchell

083 The Color Purple- Alice Walker

084 The Remains of the Day- Kazuo Ishiguro

085 Madame Bovary- Gustave Flaubert

086 A fine Balance- Rohinton Mistry

087 Charlotte's Web- EB White (X)

088 The Five People You Meet In Heaven- Mitch Albom

089 Adventures of Sherlock Holmes- Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (X)

090 The Faraway Tree Collection- Enid Blyton

091 Heart Of Darknes- Joseph Conrad (X)

092 The Little Prince- Antoine De Saint-Exupery (X)

093 The Wasp Factory- Iain Banks

094 Watership Down- Richard Adams (X)

095 A Confederacey Of Dunces- John Kennedy Toole

096 A Town Like Alice- Nevil Shute

097 The Three Musketeers- Alexandre Dumas (X)

098 Hamlet- William Shakespeare (X)

099 Charlie and the Chocolate Factory- Roald Dahl (X)

100 Les Miserables- Victor Hugo (X) ********

If you can't tell a few of my favorite Books are on this list.
So If I have counted right I have read 40 of the 100. (I also have a few on my books to read list now, I am always looking for a good book.)
I would love to know how many you've read! (SO PLEASE LET ME KNOW!) The person with the most books read will get a prize sent to them by me. (I will also want to pick your brain on which ones are the best books to read!)

A day with Noelle

2009-08-03T08:37:00.000-07:00

So my long lost collage friend came back to Utah after 9 years of schooling out of state with her Hubby and Family and I am so excited that there here! So last week I took a road trip down to Mapelton to see her and her kids. I had so much fun and we ended up taking pictures too! (I can't wait to see yours Noelle, your camera is so much better then mine and I am sure you got some great shoots. I kinda think that mine look grainy.)

I loved her Little H (that's what I am calling her) she is so darn cute. So here are some of my favorite Pictures from that day!

Say good bye to six .....Here comes Seven

2009-08-02T22:19:00.000-07:00

Emma Turned 7 this past week while we were in Lake Powell. (She says's she still feels like she is 6 can't believe she is now 7! )

So I thought I would share 7 things about our 7 year old!

1. I love that you sing to yourself.......

You love to make up songs too! (you just don't like everyone to know that you do it.)

2. you love to Dance, and nothing is funner -yea I know that's not a real word- then to turn on the I pod and Jam out with you!

3. you change your clothes at least

three times a day. (and it's driving me crazy!)

4. It's not a good day until you have played with a friend!

5. You can get your Dad to do almost anything!

6. You love to color on anything...and even sometimes it's paper!

7. You can be so timid and stubborn at the same time.

Happy Birthday Miss Emmi! We love you!

WOW I am really Behind!

2009-07-28T10:40:00.000-07:00

Yes I know I am really behind in my blogging....but I've been so sick this past month! I feel like summer is gone...and I've missed out because I've been so sick! (and my kids have had to suffer too!)

I have a ton more pictures that will have to wait for another day.

So let's see things I've wanted to blog about have been totally random but here we go!

I saw the movie 17 again and laughed so hard! I highly recommend it! Joel says it's just cause I got to stare at Zack Effron for 2 hours, but I really hadn't noticed he it pretty good looking. Should it worry me that Joel noticed? Yes he was a great sport and went with me!

So the hole point of this is..... I give 4 stars to 17 again! (I think I needed something to laugh at.)

My next thing......

I love to read and these two books were amazing. I loved Left to tell more then the Zookeepers wife, but both were good.

So Left to tell is a five star, it's such an amazing story of faith, hope and survival!

And the Zookeeper's Wife is a 4 star! I loved it!

Family Reuions

2009-07-28T09:43:00.000-07:00

We had two Family Reunions in July the 1st was the Ballstaedt...Which I forgot to bring my Camera, So I am still waiting for Terri to post some pictures so I can steal them. But it was so much fun to see everyone, and really cool to hear Aunt Elizabeth's stories. This is the Poulsen Family Reunion. My Mom and Annie did a great Job,( and My Aunt Marlynne made the best Cinnamon rolls.)

4th of July

2009-07-28T09:34:00.001-07:00

Emma Marched in the East Mill creek Parade, and we had a great Breakfast that morning! Hunter and McKay thought the best part of the Parade was that they got a ton of Candy thrown at them. The Bummer of the Day... I got really sick by mid after noon and by that night I was down in bed where I ended staying for almost three weeks! I hate Being sick!

Hunter and The Butterfly

2009-07-28T08:42:00.000-07:00

Hunter has caught so many Butterflies this year. I am not sure why he has been able to get so many, I never noticed how many we have in the yard.

Emma's Dance Highlights

2009-06-25T22:30:00.001-07:00

This year the Fisher family was out of town when Emma preformed in CBT's Swan Princess.(so far Swan Princess is my favorite followed up by a close 2nd of Alice in Wonderland.) Anyways I had kept last year's footage of Emma when she was in Snow White, and Mixed it with the footage of this year's Swan Princess. So Here is for the last two years of our beautiful Ballerina!(and as a plug, we hope for at least another 10 years to come.) Mom, enjoy cause we missed you not being there this year.

PS. I need to reexport it and reload it, because it really is only two min. I forgot it used the hole time line I was working on. opps.

GET OUT OF MY POT!

2009-06-18T15:28:00.000-07:00

So this past spring I wanted a new Black pot for the front porch to put plants and flowers in, I looked everywhere! (yes lots of places have them but for a 100 bucks!) But then one night on the way to Joel's parents we stopped by a costco and I found my Pot (for only $20)!!!!

Emma Loved it, and wanted to drive home in the pot. We eventullay got her out of it, and put the plants in it where they belong!

BIG RED!

2009-06-16T15:25:00.000-07:00

My Neighbor and Friend Loralee has one awesome truck! They Call it Big RED! (he was once, now he is more orange then red.) Anyways, Big Red is used to haul dirt and anything else. So this year I needed to get some more mulch for the flowers beds, and needed Big Red! Big Red is really Old, I am not sure if he's 1940's or early 50's. You even have to pull the choke lever out to start him, actually he is really scary to drive! The Best Part of Big Red was the great pictures I got of the kids in him! Don't ask why but I fell in love with this old truck. (basically I seem to fall in love with anything before 1950 that needs a lot of work, and love.) I wish I could have driven him into a field of anything and had a big family picture shoot! But the drive way just had to do!

Our Primary Children's vist!

2009-06-15T11:36:00.000-07:00

So a few weeks ago, Hunter woke up Joel (I had worked two nights in a row, and could not be wakened.) and said his tummy hurt. Joel then had him go though the usual routine of taking a hot bath, and going the bathroom. Unfortunately that did not help and after a few hours
Joel decided to take Hunter to the ER. so off Hunter went to St. Marks where he was diagnosed he had appendicitis's. So we then transferred him up to Primary Children's.
He loved Primary Children's and we can't say enough good things about them!

CHILDREN'S BALLET THEATRE

2009-06-12T21:24:00.000-07:00

Ok, so as many of the family knows I film where Emma takes Ballet. We call it CBT, cause it's just so much easier to say the Children's Ballet Theatre. Anyways I am behind on making just Emma's movie highlights from this year's performance, but I thought I would share the 1st two songs of the extra's we included in the DVD's this year. (never fear the cast is so big, we ended up editing to 6 songs, so over the next few days I post the other 4 songs.)

I love Ballet, and this year was Swan Lake, or Swan Princess, (because it ends happy) was so beautiful. I absolutely loved filming it, and editing it! It was breath taking! It makes me miss my dancing days!

Rock's B Day!

2009-06-11T15:18:00.001-07:00

So Rock's birthday was last month and My assignment was to take pictures! Amber (my sister-in law) got some really good ones, but I thought I would post what I toke, that way you can download what you would like. Rock's party was great and Amber, and Sage did such a great job. They came up with the cutest table decor. and the food was fabulous! In fact I am craving the bean salsa that was made. It was Rock's 60th birthday, and it was a surprise, Jordan (my Brother in-Law) did a great job of getting Rock home for all of us to yell "Happy Birthday!" Everyone was a good sport with me running around snapping pictures! Although grandma smith did tell me I was done taking pictures of her! Darn! If your wondering why I toke a picture of a green cup ?.... It's cause we were only to have one, and I lost mine! My favorite picture is the one of Rock holding his cake with everyone behind him holding up there hands! (they do this as a Ballstaedt tradition so you know how old the person is! There are 60 fingers!)

Time to Catch up!

2009-06-11T15:09:00.000-07:00

Tulips -

I love mine so I had to post this picture of some of ours that bloomed this spring!

Emma Got a new Outfit that she just loves, so we had to take pictures of her in it! Then we had to snap one of her eating in her "box" . This is what she used to so she would not spill on her outfit!

Happy Birthday Joel

2009-06-10T13:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday! 37 years ago Joel was Born. I just thought I would express how gratiful we are to have you as a Husband and Father. You are one amazing Man, and our little family is blessed to be around you.

Hunter's Head!

2009-05-14T20:04:00.000-07:00

So Hunter went to scouts this week, but while there made the choice to Jump from table to table at our stake park. Lesson learn..... There is a reason we don't jump or walk on tables! We spent a lot of time at the ER, and even ended up going back after we got home and having a TC Scan and a few other test to make sure there was no bleeding in his brain. He is doing fine. Hunter is very proud to show everyone his Head. I didn't have my camera on me...only my blackberry phone (which takes awful pictures, but it's better than nothing!) My favorite thing about the hole experience has been, Hunter's Scout leading calling to tell me he had a small head wound and might need a stich or two. For the record it was 17 stiches, the cut/wound went all the way to the bone.

I got in!!!

2009-05-11T17:12:00.000-07:00

I got the best news today! At 4:22p.m. I got an Email from St. george marathon letting me know I got in! I am so excited! Last year was because I told my father in-law I would do it, but this year is all for me! So Fisher family, and Ballstaedt family lets do a repeat of last year and do a awesome family vac. in St. George around the Marathon!!!!!
I love St. George Marathon Weekend!

There's no place like Home!

2009-04-29T22:56:00.000-07:00

Or so Dorthy says, so we found out today we did not get the bid on the Home in South Jordan. Which is a Huge relief. Yesterday I came to the decision that no matter what, I just could not move, and trying to talk to Joel while he was still under the effects of drugs did not go well.
In fact I had to wait till 11 pm at night so I could say how I felt without him giggling like a school girl. (Joel had his intestines biopsied.) So we are staying in Grandma's House and I can't tell you how happy I was today as I planned the flowers for the beds! (I love our yard! It's something I could never replace.) Although Joel might not be to happy when He see how many flowers I have on the list.

TO MOVE OR NOT TO MOVE?

2009-04-27T14:06:00.000-07:00

So this past week we put an offer in on a home in South Jordan, (yes it is crazy and so out of the blue!) I now feel like chicken little who is running around yelling "the sky is falling". The home we put an offer on is bank owned, and so we will have to wait a few days (maybe weeks) to know what the end result is. While waiting for the bank, I look at the home we have lived in for the last 8 years and I have known my hole life and feel a flood of emotions! For those of you who don't know We bought my Grandma Fisher's home. It has an amazing yard, wonderful neighbors, and so much more..... I wondering if we really want to leave it.
So here's to wondering were are adventure will lead us....still here or in South Jordan?

Easter

2009-04-21T13:38:00.000-07:00

As a kid I always got a new Easter dress, so of course we had to have the tradition live on with our kids. Happy Easter. It was so cold out side that of course no one wanted to stay out side, so we are going to have to do a redo on the group picture!

Snaggle tooth

2009-04-17T15:59:00.000-07:00

Snaggle Tooth, that's Emma's new name around our house. Last week she lost one of her front teeth, and since then the other front tooth has rotated and is hanging down in the middle but still not ready to come out.
She had such pretty teeth, and this new look maybe not her best! We took these before the
other tooth began to move.

That time of year again!

2009-04-15T08:18:00.000-07:00

So Emma had her performance of Swan Lake last week up at Kingsbury hall. She was so excited about it, because this year her costume was a dress that she was able to swish around. She loves to get up on the big stage and dance! And is now waiting for next year to do it again!

MERRY CHRISTMAS..EVEN IF IT IS EASTER!

2009-04-14T14:26:00.001-07:00

So I could not get my memory card to work, and with the basement being torn apart, and not having a computer for a few months .... well I really have let my posting go down the drain! So this morning I download 4 months worth of pictures and I will start by posting Christmas! So merry Christmas to you all, even if it is now Easter, I am just running a little behind.

Most of the pictures are from the Ballstaedt's reenactment of the Christmas story, so below are the cutest Angels, One good looking star, a very sweet Mary, One baby Jesus, and the best wise men and Shepard's you could ask for. (oh yes and we can't forget Gingerbean as the baby sheep)

Terri always makes the boys PJ pants for christmas, and as an added bouns She also made

us the best looking hats on the block! For the Girls this year Terri made us the most darling

scripture bags.

After a wonderful Christmas eve with the Ballstaedt's we Had Christmas morning with

the Fisher Family.

Unfortunately after looking at all my pictures I didn't get one of my mom & Dad, nor Of Joel's parents! How did that happen?

On No!!! Amber is moving.

2009-04-03T22:14:00.000-07:00

So I got online today...OK so it's really 11:00pm, so it's nighttime, but anyway. I looked up my cute sister-in law's blog only to see that she is moving!
So to help out darling, cute and ever so sweet Amber please pass this on to anyone who is looking to buy a house/condo.
http://farmingtontownhome4sale.blogspot.com/
It has tons of pictures and info on there beautiful home that they need to sale.

To Facebook ...or Maybe Not

2009-03-26T10:57:00.000-07:00

So I have been on Facebook for awhile now, and have had some mixed feelings about it, but this past week something funny and somewhat different happened.

I had gotten online and jumped on facebook to read what a friend had written when I got instant message on the bottom of my screen. (you can tell who's online on facebook, and then instant message them if you would like.) Well a girl I knew in High School and had been my "facebook friend" was saying hello and wanted to chat.

I replied Hello and the conversation began, She asked how I was and what I was up to, I told her and asked about her and her children, ( she has gone though a divorce. ) after she replied she asked "Hey do you know whatever Happened to Joel Ballstaedt?"

I thought she was joking around, so I told her That he is a CPA, and doing well.

She then asked if he lived here is Salt Lake, I began to think this was getting kinda of creepy, but
I answered yes. ( for those of you who don't know Joel and I went to High School together, and he knows her to.) She then asked if he was on Facebook, and I told her that "Joel thinks Facebook is a waste of time and that he will never be on it."

She then replied that I must see him a lot, and I respond "everyday!" At this point I have realized that this girl is wanting a lot more than just to say Hi to Joel Ballstaedt, I also began to realize that she doesn't know she is talking to his wife!

She then asks if we live by each other, and I respond "the Same House, I am his Wife"

She then tells me to "stop punking her"

I tell Her that "I am not Punking her, I really am his wife and that we have been married for 13 years.

She then tells me to stop joking around and asks what's really up with Joel, because her and Joel "used to rock the house in debate, and she thinks he's such a great guy and would love to know what he is up to."

I then tell her that we had English together and who I dated in High School and that my best friend in High School was Ann Ballstaedt, is she thinking I was Ann ? Joel cousin!

She then resp0ndes how Embarrassed she is and That she did think I was Ann. (which I take a compliment because Ann is beautiful, but I don't know how she could have mixed us up.) She also understands at this point that I am "Jenn Fisher" She then laughed at herself and got off line.

I laughed and called Joel, where we both had a good chuckel! I have a really good looking, kind hearted Hubby, and I am so glad he's not on facebook, because I can't imagine what she would have said to him.
Joel's thoughts on the hole thing is "Well if you want to hook up with someone, you're not going to get very far when you ask there wife!"

So What are your thoughts about facebook?

Movie Reviews

2009-02-02T08:32:00.000-08:00

I love movies, almost as much as I love books and so I thought I would share a few of the latest movies I've seen over the past two weeks.
The First One to start us off with is .......

INKHEART

I loved the Book and read the series. How could you not fall in love with it, I mean how many of us haven't wished to have our favorite characters come to life or for us to escape in to their world? (well now you know my feelings for the books)

So the day it opened.... Yes I was one of those freaks.... I picked my children up from school see it. ( I had read them the book over the summer)
It was good, and my kids thought it was amazing! I thought they did an okay job of trying to stick to the book, and the actor they have playing Dustfinger is great! The man they had for Basta was just awful! He did not live up to my wishes! I would give it three stars and let's face it I know we'll ended up buying it on video because my kids can't wait to see it again. So if you are up for an evening of fun, without a lot of thought process I would pick this movie!

The Next two movies Iam grouping together...because they are Chick Flicks...and because I am not sure I want to see either again. The movies are Bride wars and New in town.
I laughed in both of these movies, in fact I would say "New in town" has better one liners.
But I don't think I want to see either one again, not even at the dollar movie! If you're going to make a chick flick, you should make the movie good enough that the chick wants to see it again.
So BRIDE WARS & NEW IN TOWN
I would give two stars... sometimes funny... but left you wanting a real romantic movie.
(Good for a night out with the girls)
Oh yes and I just have to say Renée Zellweger has had a bit too much face work done before this movie, because her upper lip and other parts of her face just didn't work the way they were supposed too! (it's a bit distracting)

I saved The BEST for Last!!!!
If you're not a big Movie goer...then don't bother with any of the above movies... You'll want to catch
JOHN ADAMS

It is a Minni series by HBO that is amazing! David McCullough who wrote 1776 also wrote John Adams, and HBO stays right on with the book! I loved the book, and I loved the movie! I really can't say enough about it. It is well filmed, the actors do an amazing job, and I fell in love with the Adams family, grieved at their loses, and cheered for their success. For me 1776 and John Adams both books, and movie have made History come to life and I have a profound gratitude for our founding fathers. (Oh how I wish there were men today in government that were like these men) ! I loved the movie if you can not tell by now, but be prepared not to watch it all in one night! It's a three disc set so if you set aside a weekend you can get through it! ( it really is worth your time) I give this movie Five Stars!!!! It also won 13 Emmy's. You can find this movie at your local Costco, Blockbuster, and Library (but expect along wait with the Library).

I AM BACK!!! But only for a few days

2009-01-29T17:35:00.000-08:00

SO the computer has been in the shop for over a week! And I totally enjoyed not dealing with anything for a while, but now I am back. I know it's been forever since we posted, but with our basement all torn up, holes in my walls upstairs (thanks to Joel and my Father) and way to many other things happening that I will not write about, blogging has not been top on the list.
I read my sister in laws blog and thought I would share my goals for the next five months and 21 days too! (i don't do new years goals, I do them on my birthday and the only thing all of them have in common is for example that if I'm 35 then I will read 35 books this up coming year.)

Goals- some I am doing wonderful in and other... well I still have time!

1. Lose at lest 35 lbs
2. Read 35 new books
3. Read 35 Books of Scriptures
4. Do 35 Temple ordnance's
5. Go 35 days without TV
6. walk or run 35 miles (that is not in one time)
7. Write down 35 events that were meaningful
8. Take 35 pictures (at Lest) of my family
9. Do 35 fix up things to our home
10. Say I love you to my Hubby and Kids at lest 35 times
11. Go on 35 dates with my hubby, or kids.
12. Have 35 Boxes of new Food Storage
13. Go to 35 new places
14. Buy 35 new songs to listen too! (I love Music)
15. Save 35 dollars every time I get money from Joel!

Anyways now you all know what I wanted to get done while I am 35! I know you are all dying to see my goals for when I am 36....But that's still 5 months and 21 days a way.

Tagged!

2008-12-23T15:57:00.000-08:00

So Kristie Tagged me with ....

Choose the 4th picture from the 4th Album and tag 4 people..... My 4th Album/Folder is my Forget me knot Folder. And the 4th pictures is of my cute Brother and His wife on there wedding day! This picture was used on our DVD inserts on our Demos with a few others pic. But it's one of my Fav. because they are not looking at you, it's just like you watching them from the side lines. So thanks to MaryKim, cause she is the one that snapped it. NOW for my 4 people to tag..... Annie/Andy, MaryKim, Brooke, & Amber. I can't wait to see what your pictures are!

Merry Chirstmas

2008-12-23T12:13:00.000-08:00

As the snow falls once again ... and I am trapped in my home, I just want to wish everyone a merry Christmas. May the spirit of the lord be present in each of our life's, and may his blessing be acknowledge in our daily tasks. What a wonderful time and place we live in to know that our savior lives and loves each of us. How thankful I am to celebrate his birth,
Merry Christmas!

Happy Late Birthday Emma!

2008-12-16T13:06:00.000-08:00

So Joel and I are not good at doing B day Parties on our kids Birthday.... But we did have one for Emma in Nov. so I am now going to share some of the pictures from her party!
Happy unbirthday to you all!

FORGET ME KNOT! ...WELL...MAYBE NOT!

2008-12-12T16:01:00.000-08:00

SO in Sept. we shot our last wedding, or so I thought. With me quiting Heart to Heart, I now find myself wondering if I should rethink Forget Me Knot? Anyways I'm wrapping up a few projects and thought I would share. My Fav. part on this wedding is the cool doves they have fly over head at the very end as they kiss! IT was so Like a MOVIE! I Highly recommend it!

Trying to get caught up!

2008-12-12T13:36:00.000-08:00

With the past few months things have been so crazy I haven't had time to post anything.
So here is our trip to the Zoo and Halloween! (Yea Halloween at Christmas time) Well see if I can get thing up to date in a few weeks.

Halloween was super busy so the only pictures I got were of the kids in there parade Line.

Emma was little Mermaid!

Mckay was Some type of Jedi from the New Game force Unleashed!

Hunter was also a Jedi from Star Wars Force Unleashed!

They had a great day trick or Treating at our Neighborhood as well as Grandma Fishers. Thanks to April and Her Cute Eliza That came and watched the school Parade! (I guess I should say All My SISTERS Rock for coming, and CHEERING my kids on Cause they were there too!) Eliza is the Cute Monkey!

IT's just not a Summer, or should I say late Fall without a trip to the Zoo!

for Joel, Mckay, Hunter, and all the other boys....STAR WARS!

2008-11-11T16:48:00.000-08:00

So my friend shawna had this on her blog...and I got a kick out of it! Also I had to post it for the boys in this family.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lk5_OSsawz4

update.......

2008-11-03T07:09:00.000-08:00

Things have been extremely busy for us the past week and will be this week, so pictures from the Zoo and Halloween will be done sometime, just not very soon .

A Beautiful Thing!

2008-10-24T18:45:00.000-07:00

Today I had an amazing experience. We all have those moments we treasurer and hold dear to our hearts, and this day will be one. I saw a young women , place her newborn daughter into the arms of another woman who would become her Mother. I can't even express the emotions that where there, nor the spirit in that room, as this young women gift gave so much joy and happiness to others. This young woman showed so much courage and love to do what she has done, and the one who will reap this reward is the little newborn girl! The picture is of her, and I think she is absolutely beautiful! OH how I love this little newborn, and wish all those involved the very best.

Hunter's !st Swim Meet!

2008-10-23T04:05:00.001-07:00

I was so worried about way to many things yesterday that I forget my Camera to Hunter's 1st swim meet! He did really well. His 1st race was freestyle, and he came in 5th, then came backstroke which he toke 2nd in ,and then breaststroke which he toke 2nd in again. He did really well and we are so proud of him! So when you see him, just tell him "hey I hear your going to be the next Michael Phelps!" and you'll have a new friend for life.

Tagged again...but I guess I'll give in and do one!

2008-10-22T06:37:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by my friend Mindy. It's my first one I have done, yes I've been tagged before, but I just ignored them, only this time I'll give in and do one, just don't expect anymore.

I am: crazy!That's just how life feels right now..Being a Mom, wife, maid, taxi driver, and anything else anyone needs.
I want: a fairy god mother to wave her wand and have my house clean and yard all done!
I have: the best husband, kids, family and friends in the hole world!
I dislike: when I don't get my way, let face it who doesn't enjoy being told no.
I miss: my friends from college I never see, and my body from my college days as well.
I fear: my kids dying.
I hear: McKay playing the Piano
I crave: Chocolate
I cry: when anyone else does.
I usually: read before I go to sleep.
I search: for my Car Keys, all The time!
I wonder: How Hunter will get though School
I regret: That I didn't do more with my kids this past summer.
I love: Fall days when the leaves are on the ground.
I care: for those I love.
I always: have laundry to do
I worry: About my Children.
I am not: easy going, and when I decide on something .... wow watch out!
I remember: how it feels to be twitterpated.
I believe: in doing what is right.
I dance: When No one is at Home (or sometimes with Emma)
I sing: in the car, around the House, and always along with my I pod!
I don't always: follow through the way I wish I did
I argue: anything I really think I am right about(which is a lot)
I write: on my blog.
I win: when ever I play clue
I lose: on any video game against my kids
I wish: for only good things.
I listen: to what my kids say.
I don't understand: a lot
I can usually be found: in my car.
I need: my family
I forget: anything that is not written down
I am happy: Last night I got some sleep, and Hunter and McKay's room is clean!
I tag Kriste, Linda, Noelle, Mary kim, Shawna, Erin, Lisa, Brooke, Amber, Terri, & You!

LIFE IS GOOD! (more from St. George)

2008-10-11T23:40:00.000-07:00

So down in St. George before the Marathon, we had fun at the pool. (my kids never seemed to have enough of the pool) Also there are some pictures of the family after dinner one night.
My favorite is of a sign, that states...Life is Good! And really for the most part life really is good.

Disneyland I am on my way!

2008-10-11T19:26:00.000-07:00

So I signed up the the Disneyland Half Marathon!

I am already getting so excited and it's still 11 Months away! So if any of your feel a desire to run though Disneyland for 13.2 miles please sign up, and well have a great old time!

(I mean how could it be anything but wonderful, when your at the happiest place on earth!)

The Marathon

2008-10-05T17:37:00.000-07:00

Well it' done! The Family and Extended Family ran with Rock for his 30th year of running the St. George Marathon. My experience....well I really enjoyed it..... where to begin?

I got up at 3:00am. got ready and picked up the world's greatest Coach and friend Janice!

We got on the 4:00 am bus & by 4:35 we were on the road.

After my last and only 1/2 Marathon I thought I would go faster (also this one is a easier course)

but with the wind in our faces, and dogging the buses, it toke me longer! It also began to rain around the 2nd mile which was nice at the beginning, I thought it would stop. But it Never did.

I had a great 2nd half from mile 8 to 19 and then because I was so cold (I can't even begin to express how cold and wet I was ) my lovely hip joint began to really hurt, and by mile 20 I kept telling myself .... just get to mile 21! I did! But I also went no more on foot. Yes my marathon ended at 21 miles. So now I have until next year to get prepared so I can do it the right way this time and Finish at 26.2! I Love that My Mom, Dad, and two sister came down, also that Joel's family and extended family came down to support each other. It was So MUCH FUN! Ok, yes we are all walking/limping around after, but still it was a fun race, and I loved seeing all the amazing runners go by me, it was inspiring. The 1st pic is on Janice and I before we Loaded the bus that morining, and the rest are all from Mile 16. For those of you who were at the finnish line, please post yours soon I can't wait to see them!

Heart to Heart Here I come!

2008-09-29T16:12:00.000-07:00

So for those of you who do not know we are scaling back fmk (forget me knot) and will only do a few things a year. Anyways I found that I needed a job......and by a great blessing I got one!

I will be working for an adoption agency, that is called Heart to Heart. Anyways, I am really excited, and am looking forward to a new adventure.

http://www.hearttoheartadoptions.net/index.html

Team Rock!

2008-09-22T10:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we did pictures of us all, we are now ready to run or cheer each other on! (I think we look pretty Good! ) Don't look for Jenn in the group picture, cause I am the one taking it.

Here are the those of us who will be running or walking the Marathon. (except for seth who couldn't make it up from vegas.)