Life Of A Doctor's Wife

Caywood Halloween

2011-11-11T07:31:00.001-08:00

Hello, is anyone there? I haven't checked the blog for a long, long time. It looks like Girl's weekend was a blast. I am hoping that this summer is the summer I get to come along. Things have changed for us. We didn't end up in Virginia. Jason got a last minute job offer for Pawleys Island, SC. We live by the beach and couldn't be happier. Jason has been out of residency for a few months now and it feels great. Our kids both love their schools. I hope things are going well for all of you.

GIRLS WEEKEND RECAP!

2011-08-25T16:37:00.001-07:00

I can't believe its taken me this long to update the blog with all the yummy details of Girls weekend, but alas, this Summer TOTALLY kicked my butt, the school year has been INSANELY crazy so far and though things are going well, I'm behind on just about everything! Ahh!

Anyway, here's the poem I did for the shirt. It'll give you the gist :)

Girls Weekend 2011

A weekend away

For the girls to play!

3 days in the hot Summer SUN!

We shopped ‘til we dropped

We danced and we pranced

We talked – it was WAY too much FUN!

To the Temple we went

And our morning was spent

Doing just what we knew we should.

It can be hard to get there

But as we’re all aware

When you finally do it feels good!

It was just our luck

When Amy lost her truck

In the garage at Gateway Mall.

That place is cursed…

But it wasn’t worse

Than the last time – involving the wall!

Just dance 2 for the Wii

Got us up on our feet

Dancing around like a geek!

No bra did she wear

But you should be aware,

It WAS national breastfeeding week!

At Tucano’s Grill

We partook our fill

Of delicious salads and meat.

The Meat Boys were nice

As they served us each slice

To our eyes THEY were the real treat!

The movie was stupid

But Jenny saw cupid

When Josh Groban appeared on screen

Delights we did pop from the cupcake shop

And then on to our Favorite things.

The Summer is pretty

In Salt Lake City.

And the six of us took it by storm!

The laughing the eating

Things we can’t be repeating

You know, pretty much the norm.

how was girl's trip?!!

2011-08-03T22:52:00.001-07:00

hi girls! i'm really wanting to hear how the girls trip went!!! PLEASE! details, pictures, etc!! hope it was a great time for all.
love, megan

Update, please reply ASAP :)

2011-05-19T22:34:00.000-07:00

Thank you everyone for your input the last few weeks, sorry I have been slow to respond. Also thanks Jenny and Jill for your great finds!

I contacted some owners and got some final prices.... but I just can't decide. I need help, here are the final 2. Check them out and let me know which you prefer.

#1 -4 bed4bath condo in Cottonwood heights. 5 queen beds 1 bunk bed. Only down side for me is location. It is according to mapquest 27 mintues to Salt Lake city.

No deposit. Definitely best value. Total price $466.26 with $60 cleaning fee and taxes. $94 per person if 5 of us come.

http://www.vrbo.com/223900

#2 -4 bed 2bath home in sugarhouse. nice house great location. 1 queen bed, 3 double beds, convertible bed and a crib.

$250 refundable deposit. Total price $614 with $110 cleaning fee and 12% tax. $122 per person if 5 of us come.

http://www.vrbo.com/276604

Please reply with your preference as soon as possible :) Thanks!

Rach

PS. Jenny if you want to put up a poll for the houses on the side bar I wouldn't mind. I have NO idea how to do that :)

Travel Plans

2011-05-10T23:21:00.001-07:00

Hi Girls,

I was just looking at flights for Girls weekend has anyone else looked into it? I think I would want to book soon, the prices are starting to vary for some of the flights and I would like to get it while it is still low. I guess it might just be Jenny and I flying in, maybe you other ladies Amy and Katie are close enough to drive. Anyway just wondering what you all are thinking as it gets closer.

Jill

Housing Votes

2011-05-01T20:20:00.000-07:00

Hey ladies! Hope you all had a great Easter, and Happy Mother's day in advance! Hope you feel lots of love on that day. We are so blessed to be mothers :)

So Katie and Jenny both commented on the below property. I agree it sounds great! I talked with some one about the property and for that weekend it is $225 per night. Grand total with cleaning fee and taxes is $ 982.98.

So split between a minimum of 5 people thats $196 per person.

http://www.vrbo.com/195372 It's 4bed 2 baths with spacious floor plan and private hot tub. It is in Murry right by I15.

Here is the same home via the company's main website. They have better pictures under the virtual tour section.

http://utahsbestvacationrentals.com/view-property.php?propsq=20

He also offered another property at $ 200 a night. It is 5 bedroom 2 bath right in downtown SL. It does list hot tub, but I don't see pictures and it is only mentioned once. I think it's a typo. I can check though.

http://utahsbestvacationrentals.com/view-property.php?propsq=26

If the above pricing is way too much, the cheapest I could find that might work was a condo for $100 a night. #3 Condo, also in Murray.

It has 2 bedrooms. One bedroom a has a queen and the second has a queen and some twin bunk beds. It also has wifi and video game consoles available.

http://utahsbestvacationrentals.com/view-property.php?propsq=38

I would be fine with the condo, I think it could work. The only problem I see is a single bathroom :) It might take ages for us all to get ready and get anywhere. But I would be willing to make it work.

It's your weekend and I want as many people to be able come and have plenty of money to spend on shopping not just housing :)

Let me know which you prefer #1 Murray home with hot tub, #2 Downtown SL home, or #3 condo. I will do my best to wheel and deal these guys down as far as I can.

As soon as I get at least 3 votes for one home (not including myself) I will reserve the home for our weekend.

So get to commenting! I want to hear from all of you :)

P.S. Amy haven't heard from you in a while. What do you think about the housing? Are you still going to make it? Hope so! Karie, Kami, Jenny C, what about you guys? last I knew you were maybes, what's the scoop? I would LOVE to see all of you :)

Tell me what you think :)

2011-04-18T15:29:00.000-07:00

Here are some more.

http://www.vrbo.com/169770#ownerprofile

http://www.vrbo.com/195372

http://www.vrbo.com/201990#ownerprofile

Ok so maybe I am overwhelming you guys with options :) Tell me what you like about the different properties. Their location, features, etc that you think are important and I will try to contact 3 or 4 and find out details. Then post a vote? Does that sound good?

More Options

2011-04-18T15:04:00.000-07:00

What about either of these?

http://www.vacationrentals.com/vacation-rentals/74841.html

http://www.vacationrentals.com/vacation-rentals/450.html

They are both just south of sugarhouse area. One only lists a weekly rate so I will have to look into that one.

Input please

2011-04-17T15:46:00.000-07:00

Hey Ladies :)

Sorry I have been missing! So bummer we can't use Jenny's dad, but the Girl's weekend must go on :) Since we are so spoiled now and it was so great to have a house all to ourselves. What do you think about a vacation rental in SLC?

Would something along this lines be ok?

Here is the link http://www.vrbo.com/172993

I am not sure on it's exact location, but I could call the company and get more info. find a property close to all the things we want to do.

Here is another in the sugar house area....http://www.vacationrentals.com/vacation-rentals/53075.html

If you want to search the websites for more options let me know what you find. I would love some help and input. I want to find a place that will fit our needs and be affordable. With 5 of us going the first property would be around $100 per person if we book it for 3 nights.

What is a good price range for lodging?

What about the spa stuff? Same place or look for a new place?

What about the symphony with Idina Menzel? the seats are $80 per person (the cheap seats are sold out) and if I am going to purchase those I need to know who is coming and if this is something everyone wants to do and to go ahead and purchase them.

Please leave a comment and let me know what you think! Especially about the lodging, we at least need somewhere to stay :)

Can't wait to hear from all of you! :)

2011-03-21T15:42:00.000-07:00

Hey Ladies :)

I hope everyone has had a chance to check the dates and put in their ideas. I will list what has been decided so far, at least what I can tell from reading comments :) Please correct me if I'm wrong on something!

Head count

Katie-yes

Jill-yes

Amy-yes

Jenny M.-yes

Rachel-yes

and some Maybes from what I can tell....

Karie

Kami

Jenny Coates

Is there anyone I missed? Or that hasn't had a chance to respond and let us know they are planning to come? So 5 for sure and 3 maybes.

As for what to do :) Its is true that no matter what we do it's always fun! So some ideas that were posted were...

Massage or pampering of the like (pedi/mani etc)

Temple session

movie

cultured event

I think all of those sound great!

A movie and temple session requires minimal planning, at least at this point. So I will ask about the pampering and culture :)

I did find a cultured event the Saturday we are together. I just cut and pasted the info.

Idina Menzel and the Utah Symphony

Presented by Deer Valley Music Festival at Deer Valley Outdoor Amphitheatre

July 30, 2011

Be the first to submit a review/comment!
Add Review/Comment

Broadway powerhouse and "Glee!" favorite Idina Menzel, the Tony Award-winning "Elphaba" from international blockbuster Wicked, performs for one-night only with the Utah Symphony. With a diverse repertoire of classic pop, Broadway favorites, as well as songs from her album I Stand, India Menzel demonstrates why she is one of the great vocal performers of our time.

Glance" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 16px; padding-right: 16px; padding-bottom: 16px; padding-left: 16px; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(153, 153, 153); border-right-color: rgb(153, 153, 153); border-bottom-color: rgb(153, 153, 153); border-left-color: rgb(153, 153, 153); position: relative; overflow-x: visible; overflow-y: visible; display: block; ">
- VENUE INFO
  Deer Valley Outdoor Amphitheatre
  2250 Deer Valley Drive South
  Park City, UT 84060
  Map data ©2011 Google - Terms of Use
  Full map and directions
- ADMISSION INFO
  Tickets: $28/General Admission
  Info Phone: (801) 533-5626
  Buy Tickets
- DATES & TIMES
  Dates: July 30, 2011
  Times:
  Saturday 7:30pm

So let me know your vote on this event. I think it looks like fun, I am open to new things! I have never been to a symphony so I am in if it's what everyone wants to do. Looks like she was in Wicked and I know that's a fav :) Also relatively inexpensive too!

As far as the pampering....Would you like to go back to the same location? They did offer a wide variety of services and reasonable prices. If you guys want to try somewhere new, let me know and I can do some research.

Finally, Jenny do you think we can plan on staying at your Dad's again? I think everyone mentioned that they would love to stay there again if possible. I just want to make sure it's a 100% thing. Either way let me know, and I can look in to alternatives.

So excited! Please comment and let me know! Can't wait to hear from all of you!

Girls Weekend 2011!!!

2011-02-13T14:38:00.000-08:00

Ok. Looks like Utah won by a landslide. Thanks to everyone who voted!

Since I live in Utah now, I told Jenny I would love to head up this weekend....

but I need lots of input from all of you!

After looking at what everyone commented and voted on for dates I think the last weekend in July looks like the best possibility. It was a tie between mid and late July. My sister will be in town the weekend of the 22nd, and I didn't vote before the poll closed.

So lets say, July 29th as the weekend to go with?

As usual let's plan to arrive late Thursday or early Friday, leaving Monday morning or Sunday night?

Maybe by moving forward with July the 29th as the date as many people as possible can make it happen.

I would love to have everyone there!! :)

Jenny offered her dad's home as a possibility again. What do you all think about where we should stay?

Also what activities do you want to plan for?

Shopping? Spa? Movies? Plays? etc. etc.

Any and all ideas are welcome!

It's our weekend to do whatever we please :)

I hope this date works and we can move forward to plan a great weekend.

I can't wait to hear from all of you!

We just signed our lives away.

2011-02-06T18:58:00.000-08:00

So, this is going to sound crazy to everyone, but we just signed a contract and are moving this summer to Kingman, AZ! Steve's twin sister lives there where her husband is doing radiology, and the hospital gave us an offer we couldn't refuse. We went out this week and signed with the hospital, looked for houses and ended up signing with a contractor to build a house that will be done by the time we move down. We are so excited, and was surprised by how much we liked it there. It's pretty small, and doesn't have a ton of shopping, but makes up for it in charm and amazing outdoor activities. Rachel J just told me that's where she's from. What a small world! We're really excited and can't wait to start this new phase of life!

PS I'm planning on coming to Girl's Weekend this year, but need to figure out all the logistics before I can fully commit. We can do it in Kingman and then go to Vegas for a day trip and see Phantom. I even think Wicked is coming there in Aug (didn't you see that last year though?) Just letting you know we're willing. Utah would work best for us out of UT and ID.

2011-01-27T11:11:00.001-08:00

I'm posting the comment thread so its easier for everyone to read :) Also, I spoke with Jenny Coates this week and she would love to come this year (and would have a little baby girl with her as well!) Does anyone know of anyone else who's thinking about coming? Kami- can you contact Megan and see if she's thinking about it? I don't have a # for her anymore.... Thanks!

Trent and Karie said...

I am hoping to make it. We will be heading that way during June. I was hoping to have it in Idaho since a lot of us might be there anyway...maybe Island Park or Pocotello. SLC would be doable too. I would have to vote for sometime in very early to mid-July because I don't think I can be out there in June and then turn around and come back in August!!! But, I will try to make it to anything. I will see what I can do to help with the planning this year. I don't live close, but I will try and figure something out. I have a friend who has a sister who owns a cabin on a lake in Island Park. Who knows if they would be willing to let us use it???

January 25, 2011 3:04 PM

Brizzee said...

So any time is good for me. I know of someone who has a cabin in Island Park too that I am pretty sure we could use. I can take on any planning, NO Jenny I am not bringing Alexis. She will be at a non fun age at that time. She will be okay for a weekend without me. :)

January 25, 2011 3:09 PM

Jill said...

Girls I'm so excited for girls weekend. Already my summer is shaping up to be the busiest its ever been.There are 3 dates that look doable for me. July 8-9, 22-23or 29-31. I hate that I am not so flexible not sure how my life got so busy. June, Jeremy will be on a 2 week rotation in Boise, I'm going to try and drive up with the kids for part of that.
I loved it in utah, but maybe that was because I started with such a great massage from "Lake Mead."

Rachel and Adam were just here in Az, it was so good to see you guys. Just makes me that much more excited for girls trip.

January 25, 2011 10:04 PM

banks said...

I am good for UT, and I would be good for ID. We do have a cabin in ID, but with Brett deploying in May, I don't and can't commit to any for sure dates and any planning.:-(
I am hoping to be up there in the end of July for a triathlon ( i am in a lottery right now). RIght now I am thinking the beginning of August will be good for me, if all goes as I am hoping. I hope all is well with you guys. Love you, Kami

January 25, 2011 10:17 PM

Adam&Rachel said...

My summer is open as of right now. If we had a date soon It would be possible for me to plan our other activities around it. If you guys wanted to do UT I would be happy to plan things out since I live here and all :)
Idaho is totally fine with me as well!
It was great seeing u too Jill and I agree about "lick me" ;) the best!!! Annalee will be old enough to leave at home so I don't think I'll bring her, but I am not 100% on that. Maybe we could put up votes on the sidebar for UT or ID and which month? and go with majority?

2011-01-25T10:13:00.000-08:00

Hello ladies - wow I have seriously been MIA, haven't I? What a loser. I am so sorry and I hope we can get this blog going strong again!

First of all, I wanted to take a second to tell Megan how sorry I was to hear of your brother passing and that you’ve been in our prayers. We love you and hope you are doing ok. Sending our love---à

I think its time we begin firming up our plans for girls weekend this year, so I would LOVE all of your input. If you know you can't come, let us know. If you think you might or definitely want to try to come, PLEASE respond to this post - or preferably just post a separate post with your thoughts.

Here's what we need to decide:

Who is "heading it up" and who can come?

Where will it be?

When - what weekend?

As for me, I'm really hoping to make it! If all goes well, I'll have a new baby (end of June) so I'm hoping for an August girls weekend. My two cents about location is that when we did it in UT more people were able to come, so I vote for that. Am I the only one who will be bringing a baby? I don't know if Amy is planning on bringing Alexis.... forgot to ask you that Amy!?! I did mention it to my dad and he said we are welcome to use his house again, so that is one option. If we did decide to do that, It would be awesome if someone else could take on planning the activities etc.

Alright, well that’s it for me. So excited to hear from all of you J Big ((HUGS))

~Jenny

Caywood Update

2011-01-03T07:28:00.001-08:00

I finally have something to update on. We are moving to Newport News, Virginia this summer. It is near the coast so hopefully there won't be too much snow. We are excited to move on in life. I have really liked living in Georgia so it will be sad to move. I hope that Virginia is just as great. It is a bigger area so I will get to live by a Costco again. There is only a Sam's Club here and to me it doesn't compare with Costco. I will even be by a Trader Joe's. The possibilities are endless.
Everything else is the same. The girls are growing. Jade is 5 and in Kindergarten. and Elise will turn 4 in a couple months. I was released from Young Women after serving in it for over three years. I am now the gospel doctrine teacher. We had a raccoon kill one of our chickens so Jason trapped it in a live animal trap and then he skinned it and even ate some of it. I didn't eat it but the girls tried it with him and they really liked it. So now we are as redneck as can be. We did get a new chicken to replace the lost one. That is probably the most excited thing that has happened to us for a couple years. I hope you all had a great Christmas.

Jensen Update

2010-10-27T09:22:00.000-07:00

Hi! I have loved hearing everyone's updates I sure miss everyone and am so thankful to have such a great network of friends!

We are doing well. Adam likes his practice and work schedule. He gets bored in clinic when his days are slow, but I think overall he is happy with work. I am sure someday he will wish he wasn't so busy. I really love having him home more often. He is only on call around 4 times a month, 2 are on weekdays and the other two are weekends. The ER is really busy, but it's still better than residency! He has every Thursday off and Tuesday is a half day. It is great having a more predictable schedule. He is getting procedures scheduled quite frequently, but I think he would like some more OB. We are so proud of him! It is fun to go see his name all over the clinic, makes it seem real :)

As some of you know, I had been REALLY unsure about moving to Utah. But we have been welcomed so warmly and everyone has been great! We are in a great ward, with wonderful giving people. After being in a branch (which was amazing in it's own way) It is fun to enjoy a fully functioning ward ;) Can you believe we received 12 dinners after I had Annalee!? So spoiled!

And adding a 3rd child has been quite an adjustment. I just feel like my days are sooo hectic! I also have a lot of guilt trying to meet everyone's needs... but it is getting better. We were unsure how wise it would be to have another baby when Hayden isn't walking. But it has already been so good for him, since I can't baby him :) he has started crawling and pulling up to standing! We really had to trust the Lord having another baby that everything would be alright, and it is :)

Hayden is really doing great and saying a lot of words! He is such a happy easy going boy. In so many ways he is my easiest child! We are so lucky to have him in our family

Kyler is loving preschool. I got him into a preschool taught by a lady in our ward. Her preschool is "famous" around here for being really good and he is loving it. He goes M-Th 10-12. He is already sounding out words and I imagine he will be reading by kindergarten! She is such a sweet lady too. We were so lucky to get in.

I am having some problems with attitude with him and being respectful... any advice would be great! He is so.... um particular :) and he thinks he knows EVERYTHING! I feel like I have a teenager. I feel like I am so hard on him cause he is my first and acts so much older than he is. I expect a lot out of him, maybe too much. Anyway, I just hope I don't traumatize him with my lack of parenting experience.

Annalee is our sweet little girl! She really is such a pretty baby and I love watching people ooo and aaah over her :) I really love having a girl more than I ever thought I would. She is a sweet baby and also very sleepy. Which has been good and bad :) She was sleepy and had jaundice in beginning. She lost over 10% of her body weight and I guess I had low milk supply. So just like with Hayden I had to supplement and begin pumping AGAIN.... Ugh. But at 4 weeks she is eating and gaining on her own. Woohoo! She is still a sleepy eater, but at least she is gaining. I am not a patient nurser i guess either :) I just want to do get it done and move on. But her sleepiness helps at night. Most nights she will go 5 and then 4 hours between feedings.

Kyler adores his sister and is very patient. He is very sweet with her. Hayden has taken some time warming up to her, but he will love her I am sure when she is more interactive. Right now he at least acknowledges her ;) The other day he put his hand on hers and looked at her face and said , "hi." Maybe you had to be there, but it was so sweet! A few weeks before he would try to get away from her as soon as she was with in a foot of him :)

I feel like I am adjusting pretty well here. Everyone has been so nice and welcoming. Inviting me to activities etc. I really can't complain. It's also beautiful here I think. After being out on the flat plains, I love the view of the gorgeous mountains just outside our backyard! Well Annalee starting crying, oops missed my opportunity to shower before lunch! ;)

Hope all is well with each of you! Keep in touch!

and hopefully I will update my blog soon so you can see some pictures!

Here we go again!!

2010-10-22T20:19:00.000-07:00

So, we are interviewing for residency. Let the fun begin. Trent has three interviews for Radiology next month. Dartmouth-Hitchcock, Penn State, and Univ of North Carolina. We are hoping for a couple more and should know within a few weeks. Scary and exciting. For now, we are still in North Dakota but not frozen yet.

Amen Sistah

2010-10-11T23:55:00.001-07:00

I'm all for some updating! As a comment on Shelly's comment: Whoa girl. That's rough. No playgroup or anything? I would die! Maybe they've just been waiting for you to come and start it all up! Other than the ward, what's Sioux Falls like? Cold probably eh? How long are you guys there for?

We are doing pretty good. Its been a crazy year. Just lots of ups and downs and craziness. We're moving in like 6 weeks! On Thursday we'll fly to Washington to find a house. My brother and his wife are coming to watch the kids. Should be interesting! This will be the first time we've left them with anyone other than my mom. But... three days with James, I cannot WAIT! We both really need this time away. He's been away on the ship a lot. When he's not, he's gone from 4:30 in the morning until 5 or 6, but can't stay awake long enough to hang out after the kids go to bed. The worst part is that he is bored out of his mind on the boat. There just hasn't been that much for him to do, but he can't leave. Things should be quite different in Washington, he may even have time to moonlight a little.

I for sure am going to miss Oceanside. Its been awesome. I'll miss the sunshine and all there is to do, but I'll miss my friends most of all. I am looking forward to not having so many "extra-curricular" things for a while. We took Charlie and Annie out of Karate and dance and Dillon only has Scouts and Piano now. I'm really trying to simplify our lives. I will not get suckered into PTO again.... at least not until I feel up to it but boy am I ever going to enjoy having my kids in a decent school system! I hope I can have a break from a stressful calling for a little while. I may finally get to spend some time organizing my thoughts, my stuff, our memories, you know.... stuff I used to do. I haven't scrapbooked in almost 2 years! I so want to update my website and feel like my business is in good working order again. I also want to get back into my good eating & exercising routine. I'm feeling really selfish tonight - can you tell? ;)

I really have missed girl's nights. I hope everyone is on board for girl's weekend next year! Should we still aim for Hawaii, or would more people be able to come if we did it in Salt Lake again? The most important thing is we get as many people there as would like to be there, you know? Its always such a renewing experience.

Well, that's my novel-of-an-update for ya. What's everyone else up to? Rachel your baby (Annalee who shares a birthday with my Annie!) is scrum-diddly-umptious!! Congratulations!!

What's new?

2010-10-07T13:08:00.000-07:00

I have just been thinking about you all and wondering how life is going, now that several of us are done with residency. Where is everyone and how is life going? Time for some updates!

Megan

GIRLS WEEKEND 2010 - it was amazing!

2010-08-03T20:39:00.000-07:00

GIRLS WEEKEND 2010!

There was a measly group of just the four us this year, but we managed to somehow still have WAY TOO MUCH FUN! ;0)

We spent the first day at the mall- seriously. Like the entire afternoon and half the evening. It was so fun to shop without kids hanging on us and time limitations. We were in H&M for almost 2 hours! We have $1 sparkly sandals, "little black dresses," $1 sunglasses, maternity pants galore, and more than a few "back-to-school" items to show for our "spree."

The next day we headed up to the day spa and soaked, swam, mud-bathed, "wafa-ed," ate, and just plain enjoyed everything there was to offer there - especially the good conversation. Jill has all the good photos (water & mud-proof camera). After our relaxation destination, we ate dinner at Sammy's Woodfired Pizza and saw "Charlie St. Cloud." Pretty good movie if you like Zac Efron.... which we all decidedly DO! Yowza! (husbands aren't allowed to read this.... in case you didn't know ;0) )

Saturday was super fun. We hit the beach,

Can you spell "R and R?"

then more shopping (a GW tradition to bring a "little" something home for the hubby)

Also in keeping with Girls' weekend tradition, we did a little KARAOKE and treats that include the words, "Chubby hubby, paradise coconut, and brownie batter...." just to give you an idea.

The last night, we stayed up until 5:30 AM! ITS A NEW GIRLS WEEKEND RECORD!! ((applause)) Despite the late night, I feel so rejuvinated. I feel so lucky to have such great friendships. In just a few words, the weekend was:

Inspiring
Relaxing
Hilarious
Spiritual
Uplifting
Just what I needed

Thoughts on next year:

We had discussed planning girls weekend in Hawaii next year, but after some further consideration and discussion, we think the most important thing is for us to make it easier for as many people to come as possible. So, what do you all say to Salt Lake City again? Would that be easier and more affordable? We want to still visit Megan in HI, but maybe try for a couples thing in the fall or something... I don't know.

PLEASE ADD ANY INPUT!! WE WANT YOU TO COME!!

Packing a School Lunch

2010-08-02T09:46:00.000-07:00

Jade is starting kindergarten next week. It is all day so I will need to pack a lunch for her. Seeing as I am completely new to having a school-age kid I am asking for help. I would love your advice on school lunch, what to pack, what works, what doesn't, and what you absolutly swear by. I would love any thoughts or advice you can give me.

P.S. I hope the girl's trip was awesome.

ONE MORE WEEK!

2010-07-21T15:51:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe it but its true! Girl's weekend begins one week from tomorrow! Can't wait to party ladies. Sounds like Kami has some super fun stuff planned. I plan on thoroughly soaking up all the girl-talk and laughs that I can hold! To get me by until next year, of course :) Its not too late to come if anyone is still considering it. There's plenty of room for more!

See you gals soon!

2010-07-09T07:48:00.000-07:00

Hey Girls :)

I just wanted to say hi and congrats to all those who graduated! Can you believe they are really done... I am loving it! And those of you who still have some time left, hang in there! you can do it!!!

We are all moved & living in Gunnison UT. Doesn't feel real yet, but maybe once Adam starts work and we get a routine going it will feel like home. We had a great time in Cozumel even though I am big and pregnant. Eventually I will get around to posting about it on my blog. Adam is home for almost 3 more weeks and it's been great.

I hope everyone is doing well with their moves, babies etc. Just wanted to say hi!

I would love to know what everyone is up to :)

love, Rachel

Graduation Gifts

2010-06-03T06:44:00.000-07:00

Hi girls--
For those of you with husbands finishing this month, what are your ideas for residency graduation gifts? I'm stumped and I need ideas!

Miracles

2010-05-02T20:28:00.000-07:00

You all know how we listed our house for sale a few weeks back? Well, we had been preparing the house for a couple of months and all of the realtors that we interviewed said that it was very difficult to sell a home right now and we were looking at going about 15 to 20,000 in the hole on the house. We were also told that it was going to be nearly impossible to sell the house FSBO. Well, we felt good about listing it ourselves and we felt good about the price we listed it for. We had been praying over the last couple of months that the Lord would be preparing a family to buy our home from us and that we would be able to sell the home without going backwards in the loan and that we would be able to sell it quickly. We put the house up for sale at 5:00 p.m. on a friday night, got a call saturday morning and they wanted to see the home on sunday. We told them that we didn't show on sundays but we would be happy to show the house on monday. On sunday we fasted that we would be able to sell the home. On monday the family came and walked through the house and said that they would let us know one way or another. They left the house and walked out to their car. They rang the doorbell a few seconds later and said that they didn't need to think about it any longer. They knew that they wanted to buy the house. They said that they were pre-approved for about $5,000 less then asking price but they were willing to offer more if we needed it. We negotiated for $2,000 less than asking price (which still covers our full morgage) and they signed the papers and gave us a deposit. It was so mind boggling smooth that it is impossible to contribute it to any other factor than the Lord. We are just humbled and dumbfounded at His mercy and hand in our lives. Not only does He answer prayers, but he always blows me away when He does. Austin and I dropped to our knees in gratitude which seemed not nearly good enough. We wanted to scream it from the housetops! Anyway, I had to share with you all what an amazing experience it was. Words can't quite express how I feel but I am so thankful for the gospel that teaches us to pray and fast and trust in the Lord and to rely on Him. Where would I be without Him?

GIRLS WEEKEND 2010!!!!

2010-04-14T20:42:00.000-07:00

We finally decided on a date for Girls Weekend. We are going to do it July 30-Aug. 1. We will be doing it here in Oceanside. Jenny has graciously volunteered her house. (Thanks so much Jenny! What would we ever do without Jenny). Anyways, we want to start on Friday morning, so you are all welcome to come Thursday night so we will be ready to go on Friday. I am super excited for this weekend. I think it will be a blast. We will start figuring out what we will be doing soon. If any of you have any request just let me know. This will come fast! Loves

We know where we are going!

2010-04-11T13:29:00.000-07:00

Finally! We know where we are headed. We are headed to a little paradise called Mountain Home Idaho! Just kidding about the little paradise part, but at least it is close to home! We just found out. We turned in our wishlist in December with Mt. Home no where near the list but in Feb the Assignments officer emailed with a list of 11 bases that no one signed up for. Of those 11 Mt. Home was the best choice for us. There were enough spots that weren't signed up for it made us pretty worried that we would get sent to one of these bases that we REALLY didn't want. So we called the assignments officer and told him we would be willing to add MT. Home to our list. The Sweet thing is that choosing Mt. Home means that the odds of Austin getting deployed are very small. We may go through our whole payback without Austin ever being deployed. That would be awesome. Anyway, for those that don't know, MT. Home is 45 min east of boise and 5 hours from Provo. It's a very small town but I don't think I am going to mind all that much. It is close to the sand dunes so we are going to get some 4-wheelers and go crazy. We will make it fun!

Girl's Weekend 2010 date poll

2010-04-05T20:40:00.001-07:00

We desperately need to finalize the date for girl's weekend so PLEASE vote for either the first or second weekend in August in the poll on the right side of the blog. You are excused from voting ONLY if you know for sure that no matter which weekend it is you can't come.

This will help Kami get an idea of where we could stay and what we can plan to do for fun! I've noticed Southwest has some pretty good deals on flights right now too... so we need to decide before they vanish! :)

PS - if you haven't seen Karie's new baby, please read the previous post - she's adorable!

Savanna Marie Shelton

2010-04-05T08:22:00.000-07:00

If you haven't caught my blog, we welcomed Savanna Marie to our family on March 19th. She is just over two weeks and doing well (besides sleeping all day and then waking up as soon as the lights go out....any suggestions for that?). Details on our blog but maternity leave is over...ha ha...and it's back to work. Hope you all had a wonderful Easter and congratulations Rachel M...I didn't know you were expecting.

Any final verdict for girl's weekend?

Typical Kid on Camera

2010-02-25T18:52:00.000-08:00

So I have these videos of my kids. They make me laugh. The first one is so typical of a kid on camera. They are like a deer in the headlight. As soon as the camera goes on they shut down. The second on is you try and video one of your kids doing something cute and the other ones have to steal the limelight. Enjoy.

Megan?

2010-02-12T09:15:00.000-08:00

Megan,
I am looking for information on Autism, and I knew that you've dealt with it, and wondered if you'd give me a call or email sometime. Katiemaam at hotmail dot com or 734 565 9781
Katie
PS if anyone else has her info, can you send it on?

Rachel's 28th Birthday

2010-01-30T08:50:00.000-08:00

Ok now that it's almost feb I better hurry up and post my bithday stuff :)

It was on Jan 8th!

It seems like life has been busy although I can't pin point exactly why. So sorry I am late.

I had a really nice 28th birthday. I started my day with my aerobics class and that felt good. Then I made myself an egg mc muffin for breakfast :) so good!

Adam had to work but made the best of it. He came home for lunch with some beautiful roses :) We ordered my favorite pizza for dinner Canadian bacon and pineapple...mmmmmm!

Then the next day Adam and Kyler slaved over making my favorite bday cake carrot cake from scratch with lemon cream cheese frosting, it is divine!

I look forward to it every year :)

I got a sentsy warmer for my bday and have been loving trying out new smells. (they sell them at the cell phone store :) haha

anyway nothing fancy, but a great birthday and i felt very loved!

I can't think of what else I am supposed to write for my bday post. I have enjoyed my step aerobic class and yoga class. Especially the yoga class.. ahhhh... makes my body happy!

I have been learning to knit (the grandma way, you know with needles) and that has been fun. I am pretty impatient learning new things that take time... I want to be a expert right a way and try all the hard patterns and usually get frustrated and give up... so i am trying to be patient :)

I am always enjoying a good book... and looking for new recipes to try out.

My sister in law has taught me how to make some pretty sweet earrings, and that can be pretty addicting! I am excited to be done with residency although I will miss the people here.

Maybe this is weird but I am nervous to move to utah.. maybe those of you who grew up outside of utah will understand. I am just nervous about the "culture" of utah and the homogeneous environment. I just grew up with, what I felt like was a lot of diversity and liked it... so we'll see. I am sure it will be fine. I will enjoy living a half hour from a temple and seeing family more. Change is difficult but good... maybe it's good because it's difficult :)

Also sorry I haven't replied about Girl's weekend. I don't have a strong opinion as to where. I will be living close to Adam's parents so it wont be hard to get most places. I think it would be nice to do it another part of the country for those who haven't been able to attend yet.

I think if we did it in Utah/Idaho we should do a family get together. I know my husband would love to see his buddies too. I mean I would be up for doing both... but I know that is hard for some. I definitely want to have girls weekend. In addition I would like to plan a reunion where the families could get together or at least the couples.

As far as our summer plans so far we are graduating June 25th and then moving the following weekend. Then we have a family reunion Aug 7th 8th if I remember right.

anyway that's my input. Miss you all and hope all is well with you and your families!

Birthday post... a little late ;0)

2010-01-08T17:25:00.000-08:00

I can't believe I have been so bad at posting these! Especially after "requiring" you guys to do it! What a hypocrite!

Well... Last month I turned 30! Holy Cow it feels totally ... . . . . . . .... totally . .. ..... . . . . . the same. :) I feel great, though. I'm not scared of my 30's. Not for a few years anyway! lol

So, my birthday was awesome. James really went out of his way to make me feel special, and I did! Kami took me out too and we had a great time shopping and playing with Kali- who always steals the show! My mom came down and pampered me a little too. It was awesome.

This photo was taken on my birthday. The girl on the left is my friend Millie.

So, I have some great news! I actually kept 3 out of the 4 new year's resolutions I made last year! I feel like this year I kind of have a head start! SUCH a great feeling. 2009 was a year of several personal challenges and triumphs. I started my own Bow business/ website, lost some weight, and most importantly, grew closer to my Heavenly Father. I have one main goal for 2010... don't take ANYTHING for granted. Its our last year in CA, our last year living close to my mom, close to Kami and I just feel like my life, my kids- everything is speeding by too quickly. I hope to cherish all the good moments of every day.

Our big news is that James has been assigned duty as a doctor on the USS Nimitz- an aircraft carrier out of....... SAN DIEGO!

Well, I should say, it will be in SD for a while. The Nimitz is scheduled for a 12-18 month dry dock period beginning in 2011. It will dock in Bremerton Washington and we'll go with it! We are looking forward to that exciting new experience! Washington state has always attracted me in lots of ways. I'm excited to see if it'll meet my expecatations. ;-)

I wanted to talk a little about the next girl's weekend. As we left the last one, there didn't seem to be a real concensus of what to do about this next one. Its going to be a Summer of transition for many of us who are starting new jobs or military positions. I think I would just like some feedback on what to do. Does someone just want to volunteer to plan and organize it? Kami has said she would do it here in SD again, if people were interested. I haven't asked him, but I think my dad would be willing to let us use his house in SLC again. Does anyone else have an opinion? It would be nice for whoever does take this on to have time to put into planning. Does everyone now know where they'll be next July? Do we still want to do it in July?

PLEASE, if you read this, post your opinion. It helps to know where everyone stands. We want as many people to come as can! Its too fun to miss out on! :)

BY THE WAY! Thanks to AMY for the cool T-shirts! I'm going to post a picture of mine soon.

~Jenny

So Much Good News!!

2010-01-07T07:31:00.000-08:00

I am so jealous of everyone. Congrats Joni and Megan. I am 10 weeks away (from delivery of my baby girl) and it seems like an eternity. Megan...Heck yeah...girl's weekend with you next year. You will love it. There is a lot you can do through BYU-H there too. Have fun. Anyway, I got home and got all your Christmas cards. I am such a slacker but I just posted a huge blog on the family blog, so if you care, take a peek and that's the best I can do for now. I am frantically studying to retake my boards in a month so free time is limited. Anyway, well, Have a Happy New Year!!!

We finally have a job...

2009-12-31T20:11:00.001-08:00

With the scholarship payback looming over our heads, we've had a stressful few months of trying to figure out where we'd end up for the next four years. It ultimately came down to two good choices, both of which offered him a spot.

We had to choose between this little dot on the map in the midwest...

And this:

Needless to say, we went with Hawaii. Jason will be working in a small rural clinic on the North Shore of Oahu. So, every day we'll see the ocean and beautiful views of the Ko'olau mountains

And we get to live right by this

We feel so fortunate to be able to do our payback in such a beautiful spot of the world where our kids will learn so much about culture and be exposed to a more relaxed, less competitive lifestyle for a while. A few months ago we thought we would be destined for either American Samoa or an indian reservation. The site in Hawaii came up just at the right time. Maybe the scholarship wasn't such a bad deal after all...

(Girl's trip 2011 in hawaii anyone?!)

New Arrival!

2009-12-27T19:51:00.000-08:00

It's a Girl! Sophia Juliet
Born December 2nd

6 lbs 4 oz

17 3/4 inches long

We have successfully brought another beautiful baby girl into the world. She such a perfect precious baby. Needless to say, we are all wrapped around her tiny little finger (especially daddy, who is snuggling with her every chance he gets) We couldn't be happier and I couldn't have asked for a better birthday or Christmas present than this sweet little bundle of joy. It has taken me a little while to post this but this season has been a little busy for our family. Ten days after the baby was born Eden was also baptized. So I had to add that announcement as well. She is so grown up now and I love hanging out with her! What a fun stage she is in!

Anyway, I think I am the luckiest mom in the world and my life is perfect! God has given me so much more than I have asked for or deserved and I feel truly blessed! Anyway, love you all!

P.S. I can't find a pink double stroller! I am now finding out they are only made in singles (like no one has more than one girl!) So, if anyone knows of any place or website that sells pink or more girly double strollers let me know.

New blog for mom's and families

2009-11-23T13:35:00.001-08:00

I just wanted to share a blog I am writing with my sisters. The link is http://successforkids.blogspot.com/ and it is kind of a hodgepodge of info and articles for moms and families with everything from recipes to health tips to product reviews. We only started it about a month ago, but I wanted to pass the word along. Feel free to add it to your blog lists on your blogs as well!

Grigg Halloween

2009-11-12T06:11:00.001-08:00

Halloween was a bit of a bust this year. I ended up running a half marathon in Ohio Halloween morning so by the time we drove back home we ended up digging through the costume box to find costumes for everyone. But here is a picture of every one carving pumpkins a few days before. Andersen's parents were visiting so the boys were having a great time. I don't know why Coolidge wasn't in this picture because he was rolling around in the guts the whole time.
This is the only picture I got on Halloween. Luckily a lot of people had given me hand-me-downs for Waverly and there happened to be a costume in the mix. So here is my little pumpkin on her first Halloween. I can hardly believe she is already three months old!

Here we all are just before my race. It was a cold windy race but I managed to finish in under 2 hrs. 1hr 56min. I guess that's alright for my first half marathon.

I even got a trophy for second place in my age group. These are all the ladies from my ward that ran with me. It was great having such a good sized group to run with. That always makes running more fun when you have someone to run with.

Anyway, that was our Halloween. Glad everyone else had a great time too!

I need HELP!!!

2009-11-11T20:46:00.000-08:00

Hey, does anyone have any ideas for keeping an autistic spectrum child entertained on a 25 hour car ride? We're driving to Utah for my brother's wedding, and Nathan doesn't do well driving to the grocery store, let alone cross country.

He doesn't play with toys (other than throwing them) and only really loves to push the buttons on our dvd player at home over and over and over again. He also loves Dora, but we can only watch so much Dora before he needs something to throw, or someone to bite. Let me know if you have a stroke of genius.

Also, he learned how to unlatch his carseat, and will not leave it on. I'm almost to the point of duct tape, but wanted to know if any of you have had this problem, and found a good solution.

Thanks for your support, and help. I really need it.

Katie

Weber Halloween

2009-11-11T20:39:00.000-08:00

We didn't get many pictures of Halloween, because Rachel and I had Swine Flu, so here's one. She was really feeling better, so here she is as a blonde "fancy lady". Shaun went as a skeleton ninja, Nathan went as a hyper active 3 year old, and Matthew went as an angel (which he didn't have to dress up at all for :) I went as a frazzled, overworked, under-appreciated mother, and Steve went as a zomby (both of which didn't need costume or makeup).

DeMill's Halloween

2009-11-09T06:49:00.000-08:00

We had a great Halloween. Emery was a pumpkin. Addie was a witch. Dashle was a boy with an AWESOME bat hat that he refused to wear so instead he was a Cougar Fan. Coy was Baby Dracula. They were all very cute! We live in a great neighborhood where everyone hangs out in their driveways so the kids don't have to walk up to the doors and knock. We also live next to some pretty great neighbors who have adopted our kids as surrogate grandchildren. Out here we have what is called "Beggar's Night" if Halloween falls on the weekend. So our kids trick-o-treated on the 29th instead of the 31st. I agree with the idea. It keeps our children safe. Besides that, Thursday night was a lovely evening and Saturday, the 31st, was windy, rainy, and very cold. I must be getting old. I care too much about the weather.

Shyler loved me enough to don the bat hat since I made it and Dashle wouldn't wear it.

This is my pumpkin costume my mom made decades ago. Still pretty cute especially on Emery.

The best kind of fangs are baby ones!

Hope everyone had a great October! We created a lot of fun family memories and traditions. Can't wait for November and December family fun!

Happy Halloween

2009-11-08T22:20:00.000-08:00

My kids had a great time this year and the weather actually cooperated for us. I posted more on my own blog too so if you want more info it is there.

The Banks Bunch

2009-11-07T22:21:00.000-08:00

Here is Jenny kids, mine and the girls friends at the ward's trunk or treat party.

Brynn was a witch.

Aubrey was a self titled "princess" ghost.

Brayden was Luke Skywalker. He was so happy that he got to look like Dillon. He loves being around Jenny's boys. He gets his boy influence that way. :)

Little Kali was a bunny.

Brett enter a ugly mustache competition at work, so this is his really mustache, but not really hair. :)

Brett and I had a few costume party this year. We started with a 70's party a couple weeks before Halloween so we decided to just keep that theme throughout.

We had a great Halloween. All your kids looked so cute.

Yes, Jenny I would love to do a costume swap. Love ya all.

Interesting Idea... What do you think??

2009-11-07T13:56:00.000-08:00

Hey ladies. You know how hard it is to find costumes and plan for all the kids and stuff? What if next year we host an online costume swap? We could post pictures of the costumes we have that we'd be willing to swap for. Sounds like a good way to save $$, eh? Just a thought. Post your thoughts and if you think it even sounds feasible.

Bingham Super Heroes

2009-11-06T21:54:00.000-08:00

Super, super Girl!!
Put my Batman shirt on for Jeremy's family Halloween Bash, Tay was okay with being matchy with his mom.

Our super team unites!

I love Halloween. I love to see all the little kids and make the kids costumes its so fun and sometimes hard to decide what they want to be. We went to Magic Mountain in late summer and they got capes, that was our inspiration for our super hereos. At our ward party I was the supervillain, Professor Evil, but you have to say it with a crazy accent. I love to see all of our kiddos in their halloween costumes, so big and stinkin cute. Thanks for the reminder Jenny.

Bassett Halloween

2009-11-05T20:07:00.000-08:00

Halloween is pretty big here. We got SO much candy. We went to 3 different trick or treating events. The kids loved being able to dress up so much. Jordan was in heaven being able to wear her ballet stuff out in public.

PS So for those that will be done this coming year, does anyone know were they are going yet. I know Rachel J knows. But I don't know if I heard from anyone else. We should be deciding in the next month.

Shelton Halloween

2009-11-05T13:51:00.000-08:00

Everyone's kids are getting so big...and cute. I think I already announced that I was expecting but we found out this week that it's a GIRL!! Yeah...I am so excited for Amelia to have a sister. Anyway...Halloween was a blast as well. I posted more details on my family blog so check there if interested. We also just finished moving in to our new house, still on the Minot AFB, but they are tearing our very old house down, so it was a busy month. Well, here are my kiddos. They were tons of fun and I am looking forward to the holidays this year.

Manwaring Halloween '09

2009-11-04T20:20:00.000-08:00

Whewwww....it's been a while since I've posted....thanks Jenny for the reminder. We're here still pluggin away at residency. Life's busy but VERY happy!! Here's our fam...this year will go down in history as my very favorite Halloween of all time-we had a GREAT night!!

2009-11-04T12:53:00.000-08:00

We had tons of fun. Hope yours was great too.

2009-11-03T14:51:00.000-08:00

Hope you all had a great Halloween :)

2009-11-03T14:13:00.000-08:00

Here's my possey- Butterfly, X-wing pilot and Luke Skywalker.

We had an awesome Halloween. The scariest thing about it is the giant bucket of leftover candy sitting on top of our refrigerator! Serious diet buster right there!

I'm going to send out an email reminder for people to post Halloween pics! Can't wait to see everyone else's.

Funny Dream

2009-10-28T12:19:00.000-07:00

Okay I have to post about this crazy dream I had last night. I had a dream that I guess I was in college, I just know I was in a class room of some sort. Anyway Jenny and Trent were in my class. We were all sitting at the same table and Jenny's phone rang and it was Jeremy. He wanted to know the answer to some question and I was making fun of him that he was not in our class and said "Yeah me and Jenny and Trent are all in the same class, don't you wish you were." Then Trent ended up on the phone with him and somehow spilled a bowl of candy and Jenny and I laughed really hard at him. Wow. When I woke up I was laughing so hard and then I got kindof sad and really missed Med school days. I miss all of you guys.

I had better inform

2009-09-18T14:16:00.000-07:00

So I thought I should inform you all before the baby comes that I am expecting #6 in December. I have 12 weeks left and feeling fabulous. I didn't tell anyone for a long time because I honestly thought that something was wrong with the pregnancy because I never got sick. Fortunately, the baby looks beautiful and healthy and everything seems to be functioning perfectly. So now I concider the not getting sick simply a tender mercy. I think the Lord knew that I couldn't emotionally or physically handle being sick for 18 weeks like I have been with all the others.

What is the gender you ask? Well that is a very good question! We decided to not find out this time (which is a first for us.) It was the longest hour of my life to sit through that ultrasound and not find out! So to any of you who regularly don't find out, my hat is off to you. You are made of steel! I have been so tempted to go back in and ask our tech to tell me the gender. We are so excited either way. Admittedly, I am somewhat less prepared for a boy than I am a girl but if it happens to be a boy it gives me some great excuses to "need to" shop, although Austin claims that if it is a boy he gets to do all of the shopping so I don't buy anything too prissy. Of course if he does the shopping it will all be done online at the BYU bookstore and it will all come in blue with a cougar or BYU logo somewhere on the outfit. We need to get a new carseat and stroller (our carseat is 8 years old and has been through 5 kids. I dont think they were made to go through that!) So I told Austin that if we have a girl I am totally buying a pink stroller. I think with 6 girls I am entitled to a pink stroller.

So with the coming of this baby we have offically outgrown a minivan! I have always wanted 6 kids but I never emotionally prepared for the possiblity that this would mean I would have to drive a 12 passenger van. It has taken quite a bit of therapy to get through this (J/K). I still am getting used to that size of vehicle but it has actually come in handy a number of times. I have learned that when you have a truck or a 12 passenger van you become an even greater asset to the church. We have done a lot of youth hauling in the last few months and have become greatful that we have it. It is nice to be able to haul not just my kids but all of their friends too. And best of all I don't hear "mom, she's touching me!" Its great.

We had the pleasure of being able to spend a couple of days with Shelly and her family. It was so fun to see them! The transmition in their van went out on their way home from montana so they got to spend a couple of days car shopping here in Omaha. I felt bad that it wasn't under better circumstances for them but we sure had fun having spending time with them and hearing their plans for the future. It brought back a lot of great memories. It made me miss hanging out with all of you. Anyway, If any of you are ever passing through Omaha...

I am very interested to hear what everyones plans are after residency. Many of us are almost done and I would love to hear where everyone is planning on going after. Sorry this is so lengthy! Love you all!
Joni

I forgot to post this one from girl's weekend....

2009-08-11T21:08:00.000-07:00

Tee hee hee hee ;0)

Changed for GOOD

2009-07-29T15:18:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd post a little about the more... ahem... "productive" aspects of the Girl's Trip. ;0) Here's what I learned about each of the "girls."

Amy:

#1- She gets hotter every year!

#2- She still cracks me up

#3- She still sleeps in like a champ, despite 3 kids and now a BIRD??!!

Jill:

#1- She gets crazier every year!

#2- She has perfect... REDONCULOUSLY perfect skin

#3- She's a good snuggler

Karie:

#1- She gets more "adventurous" every year with her P90X ambition, working, saving $$, eating healthy, getting left behind in Idaho with the 3 kids and no car and hoping for the best on a wing and a prayer!

#2- She has THE PRETTIEST blue eyes I've ever seen

#3- She will do just about anything to save a little $$!!! For example have her airplane carry-on be filled with groceries!!?!??!

Katie:

#1- She gets taller and SKINNIER every year (btw-I hate you!! ;0) ).

#2- The girl's got style

Rachel:

#1- The more time I spend with her, the more I like her

#2- She's smart. And confident. "Lick Mead" thinks so too.... ;0)

#3- I think she looks like my cousins on my mom's side- tall, blonde and gorgeous.

Shelly:

#1- You'd think she was married to a dentist, not a DOCTOR b/c of her huge perfect white smile

#2- Here's someone who didn't let 4 kids, one just a baby, nursing, Chief resident husband, or thousands of miles come between her and a rockin' good time with the girls!

#3- FLAT STOMACH (btw- I hate you ;0)

Kami wanted me to post what we all brought as our "Favorites." I thought it was a fabulous idea!

Amy- callus scrubbie thing... can't remember what it's called right now and am too lazy to go look :)

Jill- FABULOUS homemade bracelets and earrings (LOVE mine- btw!!)

Karie- complete list of her fav. recipes

Katie- Mr. Clean magic erasers

Rachel- Mini flip notebooks with her "best pancakes ever" recipe, travel size curel lotion and hand sanitizer.

Shelly- Victoria Secret lip gloss (it even SMELLS sexy)

Me- these yummy 100% fruit+veggie snacks and re-usable Trader Joe's shopping bags.

I also was hoping everyone could post their book recommendations (it seemed everyone had a good book with them). I promised Karie I'd post a link to my favorite music website "Pandora" so here it is:

http://www.pandora.com

BTW- Pandora sent me an email and because I listen SO MUCH, I might have to pay $.99/ month to subscribe..... TOTALLY WORTH IT! :) My new favorite station is my broadway musical station. Kami and I are going to see "WICKED" tomorow night- wish you were all coming too!

In summation, it is so amazing to me how much we've grown over the last 6 years. I have nothin' but love and respect for all of you. I want to send a HUGE thank you and HUGE shout out to Kami getting us all together that first year of med school. To quote Elphaba and Galinda (from the musical "Wicked"),

"... who can say if I've been changed for the better, but because I [know] you, I have been changed for good!!!"

2009-07-28T17:41:00.000-07:00

So, this is totally lame but I have no pics of our girls weekend. I let you guys take them with all your cameras and didn't even get one with mine. Seriously, what was I thinking. ANyway, you all better post yours so I can get some good ones. I see Amy wasn't bashful about posting all hers. Ha ha....and yes, trent did pick the blue one but I still like the pink better. Jenny your bows are being put to good use. The headbands aren't working so well but will keep trying. I just can't get her hair to lay right in the front when I put them on. Any tips? This is the first time I have really done anything with her hair. I thought she was so cute and I did pretty good for a beginner.

Okay, now for the news you are all wondering about. I never did start and thus the positive test. I am not making it known to the family so if you accidentally run into someone who knows us, it's hush hush. I am only 5 weeks or something. Yikes....will say I am feeling not really excited yet...mainly overwhelmed and wondering how I am going to do it. Hopefully the giddy feeling will come. How did/do all of you do it? We are moving in a month and with all the other little things/projects and work, I don't how this is going to work but I guess I have to have a little more faith.

Anyway, amazing time with all you girls. Can't wait to see you all again.

Videos

2009-07-26T22:11:00.000-07:00

Here are the fun videos.

Thank you for an awesome weekend

2009-07-26T21:51:00.000-07:00

Girls, That was the most fun ever. I also went hoarse Jenny. I can't even describe the good time I had. I will also go every year come hell or high water. It was so awesome to see all of you and I just want you to know how much I love you guys. I have never had a group of girls friends that I have enjoyed so much and am so comfortable around. I am sure that I made it through med school because of all of you and I miss seeing you guys on a regular basis. I am so glad we have girls weekend because it feels like no time passed at all. And I don't know about you girls but Dave can't wait until next years girls trip either wink wink. Thanks again for all the laughs. Oops I might have repeated some of those pictures.

Pic's from Rachel's Rocket ;)

2009-07-22T08:41:00.000-07:00

My picture are in reverse order too. Sorry about the quality... we seriously need a new camera!!!!

I had a great time with you lovely ladies! It was so great to rekindle our friendships!!! We miss those of you who weren't there and hope you can be there next time :)

Here is the artisitc one :) My camera couldn't handle your dad's skillz!

The house!

I kinda wish I would have taken a picture of the scratched car door... just for memories...but oh well. My FIL was too nice. I was dreading the moment when he would see it. He was too nice and said "oh it's not that bad" I think he was trying to help me feel better :)

I loved our day at Temple square despite the heat! I love the art work! So touching!!!

Thanks ladies for a wonderful trip! I feel totally refreshed and renewed and not just because of my AMAZING hour and a half massage :)
Can't wait to see ya'll next year.

Girls trip photos w/ jills camera

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

I did not hold back, I posted all my picsfor you girls. They start from the end though and go in reverse order. such good times.

361 days left til girl's weekend!

2009-07-20T11:00:00.000-07:00

The countdown begins again!

As for pictures of this girl's weekend, you'll have to wait for one of the other ladies to post, cuz somehow I forgot mine! I know... ;0)

I had the most fun I think I've ever had in one weekend! Those of you who didn't make it this year, we missed you!! I really don't know how people survive without a few days "off" to hang with the girls! I know now that this is a trip I will NEVER miss out on- come hell or high water!

Thursday we sat in the hot tub till our legs had to be re-trained to walk, then stayed up and talked until 2 am.

Friday began with a yummy breakfast, followed by a trip to "Finnish Day Spa" where "lick Mead" and Shauna gave Shelly, Jill, Rachel and I massages, Amy had a spa pedicure and Karie had her eyebrows waxed. We then had lunch at Chipotle, showered and cleaned up, then went out for some shopping at the Gateway center. There was a small catastrophe while parking in the garage there. Poor Rachel accidentally scratched her Father-in-law's car on a cement support beam! After a gut-wrenching phone call and a few tears, we managed to get her mind off of the 18 inch long 12 inch wide scratch by shopping, seeing "The Proposal," RAMONE, and a super tasty dinner at "Taiphoon." Later we pigged out on veggies and ice cream and talked until 3 am.

Saturday most of us slept in. We had a yummy breakfast and just layed around doing whatever we wanted until we decided we wanted to go out shopping again. Costco, TaiPan, the Mall (where Katie met us), then Macaroni Grill. The next 6 hours fall under the category of "What happens at Girl's weekend, Stays in Girl's weekend." I will say, however that it all made me very very hoarse!

Yesterday we slept in, then got ready and went to temple square. The highlight of that visit was the LDS artist exhibit at the Conference center. Amazing. After temple square we came back to the house, ate, cried and then said goodbye. :(

It was awesome! Thanks ladies and keep on "Being a Freak!!" (Jill) :) :)

2009-07-20T01:50:00.000-07:00

seriously I'm on girls night schedule here, Its almost 2 and I can't get to sleep, I got my second wind for the next 3 hours until we start to see the glow of the sun coming up right Jenny?

Gen Surg. ER Residencies?

2009-06-24T13:08:00.000-07:00

K..... I'm feeling really dumb. I can't remember who's husbands are doing ER residencies. I know that's what Brett eventually will be doing, but can't remember who else!

I have a good friend who's husband is trying to pick a specialty (you all remember how crazy hard THAT was) and had some questions about Gen Surg. and ER. I think they're civilian. Shelley, is Ken an ER resident?

Anyway, email me if you're in an ER or GEN. SURG. residency and I'll put you in touch with her... if you don't mind! ;0) OH, and don't forget to read Rachel's post below about girl's weekend----------->

Glitter toes

2009-06-23T11:59:00.000-07:00

Hey ladies!
I am getting so excited for our weekend. I can't believe how close it's getting :)
So I was in Utah last weekend for an awesome family reunion and my SIL who does nails gave all the girls glitter toes. I had heard a ton about them but hadn't seen them in person. They are so pretty. I know if anyone Amy will know what I am talking about. I think it's a Utah thing? We also made knock off "bumble" watches? is that what they are??? Anyway now I am in on all the Utah trends i guess. ;)
anyway :)... my point is...

I had the idea that we could all get glitter toes!
I asked my SIL if she would want to come up to Salt Lake to do them for us. She said she would, and she charges $25 for them, but since there are so many of us she would charge $17 +tip. In some places it can be up to $40 so it is a pretty good deal. The only down side would be no soaking and scrubbing of our feet :) We wouldn't be going to a salon, but she is a certified nail tech and she has a ton of colors and she does a great job!

Let me know if you guys are interested in her coming to Jenny's dad's house to do our toes. Either way it would be OK no pressure just cause she's my family. I just thought you guys might like it and it is a great deal.

So I am not thrilled about posting my feet on this, but I wanted you to see my toes :)
It's so much better in person, so sparkly!!! Mine has the colored gel and glitter, but you can get just glitter too. If you don't get them while we are together I seriously think you should on your own. they rock! If you would prefer something else she would do a gel french manicure or a pink and white. The Glitter toes and gel french last 4-8 weeks she said depending on your nail growth.

Let me know :) I will be seeing you all Friday morning! Wahoo!

1 Month 1 Week and 1 Day left!!

2009-06-09T09:39:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it!??! Only one month, one week and one day until girl's trip!! I'm getting really super excited. I was talking with my Dad last night and we're all good to go. He's taking my grandparents to Wendover or something. Can everyone who is going please send me your itinerary? Just email it to me - jennymat@cox.net. That way Amy and I can figure out rooms and airport pick-ups etc. I know it seems like far in advance, but I'm a planner and I can't help it! ;0)

So, Kami went on a girl's trip with some of her long-time girlfriends and they did something fun that I thought we should totally rip-off! It's kind of like "Oprah's Favorite Things," except it would be "Jenny's Favorite things," or, "Jill's favorite things," etc. Each person coming to girl's weekend would bring one thing that they totally love- that makes their life easier or whatever- to give to each girl coming on the trip. So... lets say I had a favorite candle or maybe a new handy kitchen gadget.... I would bring 6 of them to hand out. I believe we still have 7 people coming- total. Sound fun??!!??

OH HOW I WISH YOU WERE ALL COMING!!! :(

Let me know what you guys think about all that. Hugs!

PS - AnnMarie, we would sure like you to post your birthday post and Don't forget to post yours too Megan!

She's here!

2009-06-03T19:59:00.000-07:00

I thought I should finally post and report that our baby girl was born a couple of weeks ago. She is so beautiful and we are all loving her so much! Her name is Maya and she was a petite little 5lbs 11 oz when she was born. Labor was actually wonderful, it was *very* fast, but I loved the experience. I took a shower at about ten pm in anticipation of my early morning appt the next day. By 11 pm i was having contractions every few minutes and they were pretty intense. I labored at home until about 12:30 when I called my mom to come down. She lives about 45 minutes away and Jason decided there was NO way we were waiting for her to come! So we called a neighbor to come sit with the kids until my mom got here. We got to the hospital at about 1 am, and at 2 am i was going to get into the jacuzzi tub. The midwife wanted to check me quickly before I got in the tub and when she did she said I was at a ten and my baby was coming out right then! Baby Maya was born about 5 minutes later! She has brown hair, which shocked everyone, but she definitely has a sweet little Hughes face.

Things have been a little crazy around here, so I don't have any pictures off of my camera to post. When Maya was one week old, we were at a bbq and Eva hurt herself on the trampoline. (Amy, sound familiar?!!) It turns out she got a buckle fracture on her tibia. After not walking on it for a week and crying constantly, the ortho finally just said to let it heal on its own, they didn't think casting it would be beneficial at this point. So, she is starting to limp on it a little bit, and she has come to LOVE motrin and tylenol. I'm just grateful she isn't in a cast with this heat and summer approaching.
The injured 3 yr old, on top of no sleep, a husband on wards, and a newborn with the worst diaper rash i've ever seen...well, let's just say we're in survival mode around here!!!
But we're just happy our new baby is here safe and sound. She really has brought so much happiness into our family. I keep telling myself, "they grow into people!" otherwise i would go through this whole experience a hundred times!

Girl's trip, Recipes, and more

2009-05-18T15:58:00.000-07:00

Girl's trip - Ok, so I have a question for you ladies coming to girls weekend, and BTW- this is the list of people who have "RSVP'd":
Amy
Jill
Karie
Rachel J
Katie W
Shelly
Me

Would you ladies be interested in staying at my Dad's house instead of a hotel room? I never considered this as an option b/c I didn't want to make anyone cater to us or leave their home or anything, but my Dad volunteered and is not even going to be there that weekend.

His home is new, 3200 square feet, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. It has a game room, theater and hot tub. Its also in Sugar house- so its really close to downtown. We would have one king size and three queen size beds to go around, plus lots of cumfy couch space as well. There's a large backyard, but alas, no pool. The cost would be $200 for the whole weekend (that's what it costs to pay the maid to come clean the whole place after we leave). Split 7 ways thats $28.50 per person. Again my Dad is NOT GOING TO BE THERE. We can use the kitchen, so that cuts the cost of food and Jill- if you need to bring Zach, you guys could have your own room. He even has a pack and play and exersaucer.

Now, here's the downside- NO pool, and we would really be at the mercy of Amy's van to get us around. That being said, there's the flexibility of having the place for the whole four nights- Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday for those that are coming in early, or leaving later. Does that make sense?

Please email me if you have any questions. Other than that, post here either YAY or NAY..... the sooner the better so we can start finalizing stuff.

THANK YOU!

Also, I have a file I've been putting together of lots of easy, fast, tried and true, inexpensive recipes that I could pass along to anyone who might be interested. I too have spent some time lately getting into the whole frugal shopping, coupon clipping thing. I've also been working really hard at my food storage goals, so if you're interested, I have a lot of great info.

ONE MORE THING- Most of you know I order Mary Kay a couple of times/ year. I will be placing that order within the next 10 days. If you are interested (40% discount) let me know asap.
MY EMAIL IS: jennymat@cox.net

Whew! Enough already! ;0)

Who's watching AI

2009-05-12T19:02:00.000-07:00

Okay, nobody seems to be watching American Idol out here and I feel like I want to rant about it with someone! Do you hate Adam Lambert? I don't know who is voting for him, but I can't stand him! I hate the way that he sings and the way he looks and acts! I'm fine with Kris or Danny winning, just not Adam. And where are the girls this season? They totally got picked off so fast. And I hate the new judge! Why is she on? She is worthless! I want to know what everyone else thinks. I wish we could have a big girl's night and watch the finale together! I miss all of you awesome ladies!

Crazy just got CRAZIER!!

2009-05-12T16:24:00.001-07:00

I just thought I'd let you all know that Jonathan just got put in as our bishop on Sunday. Yes it's nuts and yes I'm scared! Any and all prayers are greatly appreciated! We are just going on faith here because nothing else really makes sense :)....except that I know he'll do awesome!!

2009-05-06T09:35:00.000-07:00

Sorry one more thing. The hotels I have been looking at range anywhere from 60 to 100 dollars so I was wondering if anyone has a price limit they need to set. If there are six of us we will probably have three to a room and so the cost is shared with three. Let me know your thoughts.

Girls Weekend

2009-05-06T09:07:00.000-07:00

So I am sorry Jenny that I seem so flaky but I just got your voicemail because we were on vacation so I promise I was not ignoring you. Anyway I thought I would post a little update. I don't have anything set in stone because I have been waiting to see for sure how many are coming. Just to let everyone know it is never too late to let us know you are coming. I think there are only six of us coming so far. So I just wanted to know before I try to book anything are we planning on thursday, friday, saturday and sunday night? I need to know everyones plans so we can coordinate rides and rooms. We might be able to use my van that will fit everyone and I know we are thinking a hotel room somewhere in downtown salt lake so rides to and from the airport will be easy. I don't have anything formal planned unless everyone wants me to. There are awesome restaurants to eat at and good shopping, they also have a theatre that has some good plays. They are playing Hello Dolly while we are there. So that is my update. Let me know if you are coming, when you are coming(how many nights) if you are bringing any babies and if you have anything specific you would like to do.

Un-Birthday

2009-05-04T17:31:00.000-07:00

I have had nine un-birthdays in a row now. I made it to 28 years old. I am bit different from last year. For one I now have huge bragging rights as I finished the Myrtle Beach Marathon back on Valentine's Day. I thought the training was going to kill me. Race day wasn't too bad but the weeks leading up to it, yuck. Anyway I never would have ran a marathon if it wasn't for the runners in this blog inspiring me. FYI: I have only gone running once since the race so I need to work on that.
Also I have become a coupon junkie. It really is sad that Monday mornings are spent pouring over the coupon blogs and making my shopping lists. I hope you are all couponing, if not couponmom.com is the best starting place.
My oldest is now out of diapers, not yet potty trained just out of diapers. So my house stinks. It also stinks because we got baby chicks. We have had them for a week now. In about four or five weeks they will be moved outside. If the smell gets too bad they will move to the garage before going outside. We only have two but so far they are really fun. We hope to get eggs by October.
That is pretty much what has changed from last year. I don't have any goals or plans for the next year, except to make some goals or plans. Any ideas?

Is it too late?

2009-04-26T18:06:00.000-07:00

So, after much haggling, research, begging (on Ken's part to get some vacation time) I think it is going to work out. So the question, 'Is it too late to let you know that I am coming?' I have no idea what the plans are but would love to know more (like where we are staying, what we are doing, etc). Also is there anyone that will be coming from the Colorado direction?

Easter "Out-takes"

2009-04-17T21:27:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd share my kids' Easter photo "Outtakes" this year. To be 100% honest, that's about all there were. We had like one decent photo out of 90 or so!

We had a really fun time decorating eggs with some other resident friends and then having an Easter egg hunt in their 11 acre orchard!

Here's a funny coincidence, last Easter Sunday, Dillon went to the ER with two broken arms. THIS Easter Sunday, Charlie went into the ER with Serum Sickness (they think... still not sure)! Check out these fun photos ------>

Looks like he had the crap beat out of him or something, but really he had some crazy allergic reaction to a virus (again... they think) which caused him to break out into hives, followed by swelling, stiffness, high fever, and PURPLENESS of the joints. Poor kid. He was pretty miserable, but still adorable :)

Easter-tastic!!

2009-04-16T13:46:00.000-07:00

Here are our Easter pics. We didn't do the dressed up route this year. Jason was on call so we celebrated Easter on General conference weekend. I hope you all had a good holiday.

Not going to girls weekend

2009-04-05T18:51:00.000-07:00

Hey all, I am sorry to break this news, but I am not going to make it to girls weekend. Sorry to bail on you all. I hope you all have a fantastic weekend! This past week I have been really struggling and not feeling right about going. After watching conference today I knew for sure it was the wrong choice for me to go. We have several families in our ward that just got laid off and have little ones to feed that could use the money more than I could use the break. I will be with you in spirit though! Amy, I hope this doesn't pose any problems for your planning. I wanted to let you know as soon as possible. Lots of Love! Joni

GIRLS WEEKEND FINAL DATE

2009-03-30T10:24:00.000-07:00

GIRLS WEEKEND IS OFFICIALLY JULY 17th, 18th, and 19th. Please try to arrive thursday night if possible and plan on Sunday evening (July 19th) or Monday morning departure. 15 weeks and 4 days to go!

*** SHELLY - if you read this could you get me your new email address? The one I have is old and not working. Anyone else who has a new email address (and would like to continue to receive updates and be allowed to post on this blog) please let me know :) THANKS!

Girls Weekend

2009-03-20T08:05:00.000-07:00

So it has been decided for sure. With the majority vote both times we are going to have the girls weekend the third week in July. That is a for sure thing so you can all book your tickets or make plans accordingly. I am now looking into housing and I am trying to find something that will please everyone. I know that budgets may still be tight(won't it be great when we can start having the girls weekends at lavish resorts with spas and expensive shopping? haha) so I want to find something within reason. I am excited and I will keep everyone posted on what I find.
Can't wait to see everyone there!

OPERATION DECISION TIME!

2009-03-13T13:47:00.001-07:00

1- Ok, so I've tried a couple of times now to get a hold of Amy about solidifying the date for girl's weekend. We've gone back and forth a little and SOOOOoooo I'm putting a poll up. PLEEEZ vote for truly what would work best for YOU and whatever weekend wins WINS! THE POLL CLOSES TUESDAY NIGHT because I know some of you are anxious to take advantage of early purchase airline deals.

Keep in mind that the three days of the getaway will be packed full of fun, so arrive the day before if possible. Plan on Sunday afternoon - Monday morning departure if possible.

May the best weekend win ;0)

2- We NEED a head count for Amy to anticipate how many bedrooms/ rooms we need for the accommodations. Please RSVP by using the other poll on the right AND by commenting to THIS POST. We know of several of you who have said you're coming for sure, but we haven't heard for sure from most of you. Seeing as how the dates might have a roll in your decision, I'm leaving this poll up for a little longer. We'll know which weekend to plan on by Wednesday morning, March 18th- the morning after the poll closes. We'll leave the RSVP poll up for a few days after that.

Girls weekend possiblities if we go with Utah

2009-03-08T19:45:00.000-07:00

Seeing that we might be changing our location to Utah, I did some phone calling and this is what I have discovered so far. About the resort option from my sister in law. (see comment in the last Post if you have no idea what I am talking about) There is a resort in midway (by park city) with a pool, kitchen, Grill, etc. A 2 bedroom sleeps 6 and for a 3 day thurs fri sat stay it would cost us about $360. She said she stayed there and thought it was really nice. In Ogden canyon, a little more than 40 min out of downtown SLC there is another resort but the 2 bedroom fits 8-10 people and it is a little older so it is slightly less expensive more like $350 with cleaning fee which she said was around $5o. These book up extremely fast so we would have to move pretty quick and figure out how many of us are going. My mother in law gave me some #'s to people with cabins that I will call. She also lives right next to the provo temple in a beautiful home and offered that if we want, we are welcome to all stay at her house. Only she and dad live there now and so there are plenty of beds, bedrooms, bathrooms, and there is a separate basement apartment with a kitchen, big screen tv, pool table, patio, etc that we could use for our partying. Bonus, its free. (And my in-laws are cool and would love us being there) Downside, no pool. However, there are lots of pools and waterparks nearby. So if we find we are pinching pennies, (or want to spend our money on shopping and eating out) this might be an option. I will find out more about the cabins also so we have stuff to choose from if we choose to change our destination to Utah.

Girls Weekend

2009-02-22T22:22:00.000-08:00

Okay girls it is time to get serious and get something booked for girls weekend. First I wanted to give some facts before we make a final decision on where to book. Now I don't know where most of you are coming from, or where you are dropping kids off, but I know that Idaho is the winner. However I just wanted everyone to think about it before we decide. Now if you are coming from Utah, whether you are flying into or dropping kids of at then know it is at least a two to three hour drive to where I am. We had discussed having it in Island Park at a cabin but that is a five hour drive from SLC. I am not trying to talk anyone out of Idaho because I would love it, but those are the facts. So what I am telling you now is to think about where you are coming from and what you want to do. I am going to need a head count pretty soon so that I can do some research as to where we will go for sure. I have been looking into some places in SLC or Island Park, or if anyone has any suggestions of even somewhere in the middle I am game. I just didn't want to make any decisions that might make it hard on too many people. Let me know what you think and I will get to booking. So everyone post and let me know specifically if you are coming and where you were planning to fly into. Even if you are thinking about coming let me know so that I can know how big I am looking for.

Thanks, can't wait to see everyone.

Girl's Weekend

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

Hey Girls!
Hope you all are doing well. I was wondering if anything has been finalized for girls weekend or not. I would be willing to help in any way... just let me know!
and again Congrats to the new pregnancies and new babies!

Ryan Dean Bassett

2009-01-29T15:40:00.000-08:00

We had our baby last Friday night at 11:42 pm. This pregnancy was definitely my most interesting. After a couple questionable ultrasounds my doctor decided it was time to get the little guy out. I was in shock when she told me she wanted me to go straight to the hospital and get induced. Of course this was one of the few times Ken was working at a different hospital (I delivered at the one he normally works at). It took some work but he was finally able to get away so he could be there for the birth. My epidural was only working on my right side, it was not fun. Each time I have a baby my epidural works less and less (they said probably due to scar tissue). Ryan came out with his cord wrapped around his neck 2 times but with no complications. He seems to be a perfectional healthy baby. He was 6lbs 5 oz and 20 inches long.

I am healing fine. I have had issues with breastfeeding. It is SO frustrating! One would think after breastfeeding 3 kids it would be second nature. Unfortunately, this is not the case for me. I have blood blisters and open sores. Can you say, ouch!

I am just so glad he is here and healthy...and that I am done with the doctor's visits (I was having to go 2+ times a week at minimum of 2 1/2 hours a visit. It was getting really old.)

New Year's Resolutions

2009-01-22T09:15:00.000-08:00

Is anyone else already struggling with keeping their new year's resolutions? I have completely let mine go! I am not the type that makes a lot of resolutions each year. Usually just one or two. This year, however, I feel extraordinarily inept. I had a list of 4 resolutions and NOT ONE of them is going well. Especially my resolution to be more organized. I bought baskets and bins, made a list of what needed organizing..... and it stopped there. All I'm DOING is stressing about it now. I feel like I'm drowning in piles of junk! Anyone really good at organizing? Britt? Megan? Who else is really organized... ?? Bryony? Rachel?

The only place in my house that is tidy and organized right now is my office. I know that's ironic, but seeing all those pretty flowers and ribbons, sewing supplies, papers and scrapbooking tools stored and displayed neatly just makes me GIDDY! So, I'm on top of that, but my "LIFE" is a mess. How do I get motivated again?!?

Oh and... Amy- it looks like Idaho is the clear winner!! Let us know what you need help with k?

Who else..

2009-01-22T09:12:00.000-08:00

Anyone else have a home business? I added a link for my website, and would love to add yours too. Anyone sell tupperware or candles or anything? Girlfriends gotta support each other, right?! ;0)

It's (going to be) a Girl!

2009-01-20T20:08:00.000-08:00

I had my ultrasound a couple weeks ago, and we found out we're having another girl! We are excited, the kids can't wait. Now we play the name game... So Jenny, I will probably be ordering some cute bows! Let us know when you get an etsy site or however we can check them out and order some!
Everything looked okay on the u/s although she measures pretty small, so I have another u/s at my next appt in a couple weeks.
I can't wait to hear what the final verdict is on the girl's trip. I'm hoping I can still come (and enjoy) even though I'll have a little person with me. I miss you all!
Megan

Check out the poll to your right ------>

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

Hey girls!!

Today we drove past the movie theater, and I could think of nothing I would rather do this weekend that to go see "Bride Wars" and out to Cold Stone with all of you! Is it July yet? There'd better be some good chick flicks out then that we can go and see! :)

I added the poll Amy asked for. I really don't care either way. I voted for Idaho, but any place would be alrighty by me! We're going to drive out, and stay for a week. Have we narrowed down a weekend yet? We had discussed the weekend of the 11th or the weekend of the 18th, right? I CAN'T WAIT THAT LONG!!

By the way, ladies, I've started a little mini business making headbands, flowers and bows for little girls. I have tons of supplies and my prices are cheap. If any of you are interested, let me know! Custom orders are my favorite!! I can do just about anything from tiny baby clips, corker bows, giant flowers, the interchangable headbands and bows, and cute little fly away hair bands. I can ship most any order for between $2.50- $5.00. I also make and sell the "hooter hiders." I can do them for $20 if you don't want the designer fabric. $25 otherwise. You can add things on like pockets, matching burp cloths, and cute little silky strings for baby to play with while he/she nurses. I'm working on setting up an etsy site or something.

I just added the picture for fun :)

My Birthday Post

2009-01-11T20:08:00.000-08:00

Here is my picture sitting at the computer writing this post and taking this picture for ya'll on a sunday night.

Ok, I can't believe it has been a year since my last birthday post. SO MUCH has happened since last January. I can't believe all that has changed since Hayden was born last January 7th and then I had my birthday the next day.
Well my last birthday totally stunk so it could only get better this year. I can't think of anything worse than spending your birthday in the hospital recovering from a c-section with no baby to hold and only a quick visit from your husband and son!
So this year's birthday was great :)
The weather was unseasonably warm so Kyler Hayden and I walked to the park (you can pretty much walk to any destination in this town:) and we had a ton of fun. I think we had been mostly inside the early part of the week so it was refreshing to enjoy a beautiful day outdoors playing! It got up to 68! I felt like I was in AZ again!
Adam came home for lunch and brought me some roses and a card. It was very sweet. He was however on call that night, so we couldn't go out. I was really bummed about that, but it turned out to be great. Adam takes call from home out here. Sometimes it is crazy and he is gone all night, others he is home with minimal calls and visits. I was blessed that he hardly had any calls and was home most of the night if not all.
Adam always make me a carrot cake from scratch for my birthday. I LOVE IT! It is so good and this year's was no exception. We ordered my favorite pizza, Hawaiian pineapple and Canadian bacon and then sang and ate some cake. Kyler was really sweet and while we were waiting for Adam to serve us some cake he said, "Mommy I am glad it's your birthday." He is so sweet. Earlier that day he also told me I could pick out any toy I wanted at the store for my present and suggested that I get a fire truck or race car. So funny!
Oh and earlier when it was time for Kyler's nap (he has been fighting these lately) I told him the best birthday present he could give me was to take a nice long nap :) He looked at me funny and said "but how will I give it to you?" I think he was curious about how he could wrap it up. But he did take a nap and I was able to enjoy a good book!
Hayden gave me lots of great smiles and cuddles. He is such a joy, and I am so glad we share our birthdays so close. He is my special bday gift!

It was great to spend a quiet evening at home with my boys for my birthday. They really made me feel special and appreciated!

Oh I think I am supposed to write more about something else ....

Some of my birthday wishes & things I would like to accomplish are....

-to continue piano lessons and play a song in church!
-be consistent/frequent in my gospel study
-to enjoy each day with my kids and not waste so much time on the computer and in other tasks that are time wasters.
-spend more time reading and less time watching TV
-to be more out going and make some friends out here... it's been rough, let me tell you! we are in a branch and no one my age/situation lives within 40 miles of me, and no built in resident friends :( the real world i guess!
-go to Time out for Women in Denver in march
and to go to Girls weekend this year!

Anyway I wish you all well and hope you are doing great. Hanging in there anyway! For those in 3 year residencies we are half way I guess. For those in longer programs/ military stuff ( my prayers go out to you :) but at least you will still have that built in support longer with other resident/military moms!
I hope I can see all of you this summer.
love, Rachel

ps. thanks for all the Christmas cards too! I promise I will get one out next year. I love seeing pics of your beautiful families. Happy New Year!

Oh yeah almost forgot, I am 27! :)

Girls Trip

2009-01-11T19:27:00.000-08:00

Okay girls, we need to really decide some things concerning our girls weekend. Where for sure do we all want to go? What weekend works for everyone? I need to know so I can look into some places. So Jenny maybe we should put up a vote as to when and where(utah or Idaho). Then I can know for sure. And I will need to know how many so I know how big of a place and we can figure out pick ups at the airport and such. Please Please try and come. Last year was so fun even with just the few of us but it would be so awesome to see everyone. Let me know.

Lazy late Christmas card

2009-01-01T07:40:00.000-08:00

I didn't make Christmas cards. So here is my picture if I had made a Christmas card.

Yes I took it myself. That is why you can see the edge of my sheet. Maybe one day I can learn how to take pictures. If anyone has a good photography book or website I would love suggestions. I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas. I wish you the best new year.

I finally did it

2008-12-22T19:07:00.000-08:00

So, for those of you who keep track of who visits your blog, I'm not stalking you. I finally started my own and was visiting all of yours for ideas. They are so cute. Our blog is: www.sheltonbombers.blogspot.com
It is still in the works but decent enough. I am trying to figure out how to put our weather on it, music, and how to get a bigger picture right when it comes up. By the way, Ann and Brit, I love the pics on your blogs...so cute. Joni, do you have one? Well, I hope you all have a Merry Christmas.

When should we do girls weekend???

2008-11-16T16:04:00.000-08:00

Hi everybody, I am trying to cordinate my schedule and Austin's leave and my first trip to Disneyland (wahoo!!!) and girls get together all for July. The sooner we pick a date the better I can plan to be there. The weekend of the 17th sounds really good to me since Karie already mentioned that date as a possiblility for her. Do we have a date set yet?

Fun Times

2008-11-16T12:39:00.000-08:00

Everyone's kids are so cute, I finally decided I needed to add mine in. Halloween was fun and luckily we had great weather. Since then we had our first winter storm about 10 days ago. Lots of snow and it was cold. I found a buddy to work out with in the mornings and when we went out in the storm, my thermometer said 11 degrees. Yikes. Anyway, my little baby is now walking...first steps a week ago. I am kind of sad. I have loved having a baby so don't tell Trent but I won't make it much longer if she grows up any more. Just kidding.

I have a funny story. I left one night and Trent was home with the kids. The boys were jumping off the bunk bed I guess and Brayden said, Dad, I'm glad your home. Mom doesn't let us jump off the bunk bed but we get to do whatever we want when your home. Trent was like, "No you don't, I have rules too." Brayden didn't agree but when he told me the story I said, yes you let them do whatever they want and eat whatever they want too. I am usually the bad guy. Well, I heard a crash and Amelia is crying. Not a good sign.

The Banks or otherwise know as the "Superheroes"

2008-11-07T20:39:00.000-08:00

The kids had fun being superheroes for Halloween. The girls loved it of course, but it was so cute to see Brayden get so into it.

I also wanted to say that we can use the my family's cabin in July. We share it with my mom's family, so my uncle will put out the calendar at the begin of the next year, and I will see what weekends in July will be open. My cabin is super fun, and there is lots to do right around the area. I hope all of you are well. It has been fun seeing all your kids in costume. I still have a picture of most of the kids at the carnival at Midwestern our first year. Half the kids weren't even born, but the ones that were it seem crazy how big they all are.

Bingham Bandits

2008-11-04T22:02:00.000-08:00

When Jeremy and I went to Hawaii and were introduced to Matsumoto's shave Ice, thankyou trent and karie, jeremy started looking ito getting a machine. Last year at Jeremy's extended family halloween bash we had shave ice so now that is our annual booth for the party. Jeremy wanted it to be official so we made a sign.

Taylor spent the first hour or so of the party in this bouncer and slide.

our little pirate puppy with his pirate sis.

This was Cadens favorite booth of the night. He worked really hard to fill his bucket back up with candy last night. Today on the way home from school he said that party saved me, so I could get more candy since I was all out. I'm sure he and Taylor will be attacking Ella soon when their candy is gone by tomorrow or Thurs.

There was even a tight rope, the scouts built it and so they left it for the party. Even Taylor walked across.

THis was before our ward party.

Arr Matey!!

I dressed up on Halloween night but thought I ended up looking more like a gypsy than a pirate, so I didn't really dress upfor any of the parties, most of the time I felt like we were lucky to get out of the house with the kids in their costumes.

We were the Bingham Bandidts because we bought a little foam pirate kit and decorated it and named our ship Bingham Bandits, the kids loved the fitting name for our theme this year.

Love seeing all the kids and moms in costume and dads with mullets.

Mathews' Halloween

2008-11-04T14:24:00.001-08:00

We had a great Halloween! It didn't feel over the top this year, and thankfully, we didn't get a whole lot of halloween candy either ;)

It all started with our neighbor's halloween party where James and I went as Wayne and Garth.

Then the ward Trunk or Treat. NOTHING like the Trunk or Treats from our AZ days, thats for SURE!

And then Halloween night. Where our little Rodeo Queen was a bit "Halloweened out!"

I LOVE seeing all your cute kiddos in your Halloween posts, although frankly its a little scary not recognizing some of them that have grown so much or that I've never even met!

DeMill Halloween

2008-11-04T05:07:00.000-08:00

Hello to you all! We had a great Halloween out here in Ohio. The past weeks have been really chilly and it was seeming that summer jumped right into winter and forgot about fall. We were pleasantly greeted Halloween day with 70 degree weather which made the festivities all the more enjoyable. Admittedly, it is hard for me to have fun when I'm COLD! Plus, I was trying to figure out all week how to keep the kids warm and still make their costumes visible since covering them up with coats would have instigated some monstrous fits (especially from our 4 yr. old!) It is a tradition on Halloween night to eat soup and bread sticks for dinner before we hit the neighborhood and gather our spoils. We all had a really fun time. I thought it was great to be free from a swollen belly and to be able to walk more than twenty feet without having to sit down for a spell. Dashle was quite humorous as he was determined to walk the entire time and maintained tight, clenched fists around his bucket handle. We would offer to hold it for him, but he would have none of it. Instead of "trick or treat" he would say, "peeaasss (please)" and then "a- doe" (thank you). Then as he walked down each driveway with Shyler after collecting the goods he would pause and look at me with a scrunched face and say, "cheeessse!" ( I was the photographer). So cute!

It's pretty sweet when your kids say they want to be just like their dad.

My kids are posers! I barely have to say anything. I simply turn the camera towards them and they instantly pose (sort of like Tina Fey when impersonating Sarah Palin).

Here's our biggest cheeser of all!

Big Daddy had to step in and help Thomas the Tank Engine, Tinkerbell, and Dr. DeMill Juniorette retrieve candy from this spooky house. It didn't matter that the bat flying around was fake! It was flying and that was all that mattered!

Coy even got in on the action as a little bear cub. The night seemed uneventful for him as he slept the whole time. I probably would've, too, if I couldn't sample the treats. What's the point of staying awake if you only have gums?

Halloween in Detroit

2008-11-03T11:18:00.001-08:00

Halloween tends to be a little over the top here. I swear people put up more decorations for Halloween than they do for Christmas. We love our neighborhood and the kids had a great time trick-or-treating. The weather was great Halloween day which worked out well since Damon was on call and I had to take the kids and little Rock out! I am feeling great and trying not to stress out to much about my newborn this time around. I really am enjoying him. He is much more easy going than the first two. Is that because they have to be? Hope you all had a Happy Halloween!

Here's Rock Thomas Kalcich. We named him after our Grandpas. Well, my Grandpa was named Roscoe, but everyone called him Rock and it just fit!
Born: October 15, 2008
8 lbs. 8 oz.
21&1/2 inches

Caywood Halloween

2008-11-03T09:37:00.001-08:00

Jade was a fairy and Elise was a skunk, Jade's old costume. I did dress up as a hula girl but didn't get any pictures of myself. Jason didn't dress up and didn't even make an effort. Maybe the trick is to get him a mullet wig.

The Jensen's Halloween

2008-11-03T08:53:00.001-08:00

Here are our Halloween photos! We had fun :) I posted detail about our fun at our family blog. Can't wait to see all your kiddos!!! Happy Halloween

Life Of A Doctor's Wife

Caywood Halloween

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