Les & Lu

Vaughn @ 33 weeks

2012-01-27T12:30:00.000-08:00

Vaughn @ 32 weeks

2012-01-20T08:57:00.000-08:00

Vaughn @ 7 months

2012-01-10T09:00:00.000-08:00

Vaughn @ 30 weeks

2012-01-06T09:01:00.000-08:00

Family Pictures

2011-12-31T11:38:00.000-08:00

Vaughn @ 6 months/experiencing Santa for the first time

2011-12-10T20:17:00.000-08:00

Cousins on Santa...Vaughn doesnt have a clue what is going on and Carson thinks Santa smells like beef and cheese!

Vaughn @ 26 weeks

2011-12-09T09:11:00.000-08:00

Vaughn @ 25 weeks

2011-12-02T12:05:00.000-08:00

Vaughn @ 24 weeks

2011-11-25T12:06:00.000-08:00

Vaughn @ 23 weeks

2011-11-18T12:13:00.000-08:00

Vaughn @ 5 months

2011-11-10T12:16:00.000-08:00

Vaughn @ 21 weeks

2011-11-04T09:04:00.000-07:00

Vaughn @ 20 weeks

2011-10-28T12:19:00.000-07:00

Love is a short word for something long lasting

2011-10-23T12:46:00.000-07:00

l cant believe its already been a year! A lot has happened since last October. We got married, moved to Pennsylvania, bought a car, bought a house and had a baby! I am married to a wonderful man and am so happy and blessed. I am excited for what next year will bring!
Happy Anniversary Brett!

Vaughn @ 19 weeks

2011-10-21T12:22:00.000-07:00

Vaughn @ 18 weeks

2011-10-14T12:25:00.001-07:00

Ode to my mother

2011-10-12T20:59:00.000-07:00

My sweet mother has struggled with histoplasmosis (scar tissue in her lungs...therefore she has less lung capacity to work with) since she was a teenager. I have always known my mom to breath heavy when walking up the stairs or doing anything physical. My dad always had to push her from behind when walking up hills. When I was growing up, I never knew that moms could play sports or do any form of physical activity.
These past few months have been a big change in events with my moms health. She is heading to the hospital (again) for special tests and treatments for pulminary and lung issues in hopes to find an answer to her problems.
Mom I just want you to know how special and important you are to me. You truly do take things for granted when trials arent in your way. You have been such an example to me of patience, service, selflessness and strength. You possess so many Christlike qualitites and your heart is made of gold! I couldnt imagine life here on earth without you so I wont imagine that, but know that my heart is full of gratitude and love for you! Thoughts and prayers are with you...keep smiling!
I love you mom!

Thumbs up to being 4 months old!

2011-10-10T11:09:00.001-07:00

Vaughn @ 17 weeks

2011-10-07T11:53:00.000-07:00

Vaughn @ 16 weeks

2011-09-30T11:48:00.000-07:00

Vaughn @ 15 weeks

2011-09-23T11:43:00.000-07:00

Vaughn @ 14 weeks

2011-09-16T15:27:00.000-07:00

Vaughn @ 13 weeks (3 months)

2011-09-09T15:24:00.000-07:00

Vaughn @ 12 weeks

2011-09-02T12:37:00.000-07:00

Vaughn @ 11 weeks

2011-08-26T12:06:00.000-07:00

Vaughn @ 10 weeks

2011-08-19T12:55:00.000-07:00

Vaughn @ 7 weeks

2011-07-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

Tummy time

Vaughn @ 6 weeks

2011-07-22T14:01:00.000-07:00

first day to church

bath time

with Grandma Sandberg...leaving after 6 weeks of heaven sent help!

The best surprise ever!

2011-06-10T09:15:00.000-07:00

I never thought life could be sweeter....our baby boy Vaughn Alan Herman entered our life 4 weeks early and words cant even express how much love I have for him. I woke up at 8:00am on June 9th, 2011 to broken water. 21 hours later of induced labor (1 hour pushing) Born June 10, 2011 at 9:15am our precious 6lbs 4.3 oz. 20 1/4 inches long bundle of joy entered our world! He has given us a couple scares so far with eating and jaundice, but has improved majorly! He is healthy, strong and beautiful! I cant believe he's all mine!!!

hospital pics

drunkin sailor

feeding time with grandma

First night home in bassinet

Baby nursery renovations...

2011-05-21T09:21:00.000-07:00

The flooring is finally finished and the crib and glider have been ordered...I cant wait!

Brett has been busy juggling work and the work that needs to be done at home. We have finished painting baby's room and Brett has put in all new outlets and painted the ceiling fan. He is almost finished putting in the wood floors...getting eager to fill it with furniture! Next we will be finishing up the base and the trim around the windows. Updated pics to follow...

It has a.......

2011-02-28T11:20:00.001-08:00

Wee Wee!!!

Brett and I are thrilled to find out today that we are expecting a baby boy! He is healthy and squirmy and on track to be born July 11th...I love him already!

(His head is on the right side of picture..profile shot)

Wedding day...

2010-10-23T22:06:00.000-07:00

Engagement Pics

2010-09-22T22:00:00.000-07:00

Goofin around

2010-09-06T10:27:00.001-07:00

Camping @ Lake Wenatchee

2010-07-29T10:05:00.000-07:00

Fun times...

Who knew?

2010-04-26T18:32:00.000-07:00

After about 3 years of use...my Sedu straightener stopped working. I know its not the most exciting thing to blog about, but it's exciting to me. This straightener was/is expensive! After banging it on the bathroom countertop to see if i could shock some life into it, it was officially dead and that was a sad day. You cant go a day without em'. I got on the website where I mine 3 years ago, and dreaded that it had gotten no cheaper than the first time i bought it. I was saddened and informed Brett about my loss. Apparently that's an "easy fix" according to Brett. He said it probably just needed some new wires. Who knew? We went to Radio Shack to get all the supplies we needed and after 20 minutes it was as good as new. I was so close to tossing it away and forking over the dough for a new one. How many times have I done that in the past?!?! Ah, what a breath of fresh air. Thanks Brett, you're amazing!

I love my family! Boy I have handsome nephews!

2010-03-29T17:31:00.000-07:00

Suzette's visit

2010-03-28T10:21:00.000-07:00

My great friend Suz and her husband Colin came to visit for spring break. You finally made it Suz! We had a busy, but fun weekend "experiencing" Seattle. It always amazes me how much I take for granted by not exploring Seattle and surrounding areas when I live so close! So I was glad I had the opportunity to do such. Colin had a list of things he wanted to do and see while he was here...that list kept getting longer and longer as the days went on. It was pretty funny. When I picked them up from the airport we took them to Teriyaki. As the "Texans" would say...you have Teriyaki on every corner". Brett has his favorite T place down in Auburn so we took them there.

As a surprise to Suz I downloaded Dr. Mario on the Wii so we cold play it all week long. I guess you could say we majored in that subject. We spent A LOT of time in college getting our doctorate! This is basically what we looked like...

We got to do Pikes Place and eat tons of delicious food.
Suz and I HAD to stop at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory to get our fav apple pie caramel apple. It is a must have!

We also ran into a place called Piroshky where there was a long line outside. Because of the line and that it was also recommended on TV, we had to give it a try. Yummy yummy! I ate most of the Salmon bread thingy...sorry Brett!

We got to see the piers by the waterfront and walked all over down town.

We met up with an old roommate, Sarah and her husband Eric for dinner at the Crab Pot.

I have never been into shell fish, and I have been making myself try new things. So I did...a big pot of crab legs. It was delicious. I am now a crab lover. I even tried one of Colin's clams....interesting, but good.

It was a fun atmosphere where food was all over the table and tools to help you eat. I highly recommend this place.

We also went up to the mountains and went tubing. Colin is from Canada and they only tabogin there....it was fun.

We went shopping at Southcenter and saw Alice in Wonderland in IMAX 3D. Suz got a sexy pair of pants! Glad you kept them. We went to a sushi place that Brett goes to that has plates on a conveyor belt. This was my first sushi experience. Loved it! I think Colin ate too much!

I was sad to see my good friend go. It has been 4 years. Way too long. Love ya Suz. Thanks for making me laugh and smile. I sure had a blast with you!

Seaside '09

2009-11-26T23:09:00.001-08:00

I went on a "surfing" trip down to Seaside Oregon. It was a nice lil getaway trip. Did some shopping (no tax!), did some sight seeing, played games and many more adventures, right Marci ;)
Despite the stinky-scary-crooked house, the rain and cold I had a GREAT time!

Marci and I in front of the bungalow

Saw some elk

Rode a whale

Double humpbacked it

Haystack at Cannon Beach

M-I-C.......K-E-Y........M-O-U-S-E!

2009-10-26T09:16:00.000-07:00

My family and I went on vacation to Disneyland this year and it was just the adults. I had so much fun acting all types of ages that week. We stayed in a great place and only had to walk a mile and a half each way. Every day we packed backpacks full of food while we ran around to each ride spot trying to stratagize and maximize each minute we possibly had. We also got to go to California Adventure (i loved) and Newport Beach where we boogie and body surfed, skim boarded and not to mention beach baseball (which John, Kristin and I won). Nothing like sprinting around the bases in your bathing suit! :) We took a bazillion pictures so here are just some of them...

At Sea-tac airport, ready to depart

Our excited faces in flight to Cali.

We just arrived. Oh I love the palms and sun!

Our room...

The 1 mile walk to Disneyland...we are excited!

California Adventure with Minnie

Star Wars ride

One of my most favorite rides...The Tower of Terror...muhahahaha

See...told ya!

Splash Mountain

Toy Story...There was some major competition going on there!

water break

Rocky Mountain

water rapid ride

What an Incredible group of people!

family softball at the beach

A bugs life

There must be a mouse in my house...

2009-09-09T19:01:00.000-07:00

#1 sucky reason to be a singlet.....

I've eaten half the pan in less than 24 hours! I just wanted one piece....Ugh!

Lazy Labor Day fun

2009-09-07T21:26:00.000-07:00

Light rail to the M's game

2009-08-14T22:55:00.000-07:00

My nephew Will came to visit Seattle for the week. He loves trains just as much as my dad does so he thought it would be a good idea to ride on the new light rail system and go watch a Mariners game. It was a fun ride and pretty quick too!

Lake Powell

2009-06-11T21:06:00.000-07:00

This past week I went to Lake Powell with a group of friends to live on a houseboat for a week. First time ever for being on a houseboat and being at LP. I had the best vacation! Beautiful scenery, weather and company!

Here are some of our adventures...

Rock climbing canyons...

Boating and water sports...(Brett showin' us how its done)

Beautiful sunsets...

Rainbow Bridge...

Red Rock Oasis 2009!!!

more pics to come...

Ready for the outdoors!

2009-05-12T09:54:00.000-07:00

This Saturday Brett and I went on a shopping spree. We noticed that a retail store was going out of business so we went to town on it. We got some pretty sweet deals. I got a hiking backpack and boots, but I am more pumped about my backpack. :) I cant wait to go lurking in the wilderness as soon as it warms up!!!

Izzy likes them too!

Cute bathing suits at Downeast Basics

2009-04-23T09:16:00.001-07:00

I got the white one, but these are my favorites.

LOVE STORY (Taylor Swift) meets VIVA LA VIDA (Coldplay) - Piano/Cello - by Jon Schmidt

2009-04-22T15:20:00.001-07:00

I saw this from a friends blog and loved it as well...I think Jon Schmidt is amazing! Thanks Jessica!

4th series of Fablehaven is out!

2009-03-28T14:48:00.000-07:00

The 4th Fablehaven book is out and I highly recommend you start reading the series! This is a great read for children and for adults. If you like Harry Potter, you will love Fablehaven.

Fact: Bears Beets Battlestar Galactica!

2009-03-13T12:48:00.000-07:00

If I could be with anyone it would be Jim Halpert!

Happy 4th B-day Izzy!

2009-03-05T09:27:00.000-08:00

My life isn't very exciting. My blogs are lacking and i'm filling them in with family and dog birthdays! WOW!
I just wanted to wish my DOG, yes I said it, my dog Isabella a happy birthday. I love her because of her companionship, her unconditional love, her soft fur, her wet nose and because she loves to snuggle!

Happy Birthday dear Andrea and Kristin....Happy Birthday to you!

2009-02-17T18:56:00.000-08:00

This month we celebrated two birthdays. We celebrated my mom's big 5-9 and my sisters whopping 3-0!!! :)
It was great to get together with the fam. The kids were extra loud and rambunctious...I was losing my cool strings, but I still love them. They just wanted cake. Wouldn't you go crazy too?

Precious buttercup

Exhibit A, B and C!

This is why I love her!!! She has food storage to feed a whole village with those rolls!

Valentines Smalitines

2009-02-14T16:29:00.000-08:00

I love this holiday, but I'm not going to lie...today sucks!

...and another one

2009-01-29T11:44:00.000-08:00

Okay so today's menu is Zesty Italian and Parmesan chicken...You will thank me later for this one! You will want to lick your plate clean! :) This is by far and away my favorite flavor on chicken. This recipe was given to me by my sisters which I'm sure they got it from some other lovely lady. You can marinate the chicken with zesty italian salad dressing and parmesan cheese in a bag and then bake it or you can dump it in a crock pot. Last night I boiled my chicken on low so it turned moist and tender and then dumped the water out and then covered the chicken with the zesty italian dressing and parmesan. I let that cook together for a bit longer.

When my chicken was done and I plated it next to my salad. Seeing all that goodness in the bottom of my pan I didnt have the heart to waste it so I decide to put it on my salad....WOWZERS! DELISH!
Give it a try...two thumbs up. Way better than the other dressing I posted below! :)
Now im going to have me a cookie!!!

Salad kick

2009-01-27T23:49:00.000-08:00

I am officially on a salad kick. I love salads. I love all the different things you can put in a salad to create something new each time. I also love to venture out and try new things. I went to the store and went all out on veggies. Then I went to get some salad dressing. I stood there for 5 minutes deciding. Its always the hardest decision ever! I grabbed some balsamic vinaigrette and looked at the ingredients. I came to the conclusion that I can make my own. I love homemade dressing a lot more than store bought.

Needless to say, I had a delicious chicken salad with all the trimmings. If you want to try out the salad dressing, I give it two thumbs up and say give it a try. I loved it!

3/4 cup of balsamic vinaigrette
3/4 cup olive oil
1 clove of fresh garlic chopped or pressed
1 tsp of dried Italian herbs or oregano
pinch of salt
pinch of pepper

shake all together and store in refrigerator.

I cant believe I have been weighing myself wrong all these years!

2009-01-09T12:50:00.000-08:00

December Winter Wonderland

2009-01-03T20:36:00.000-08:00

This winter season we have been surprised with a foot of snow! I have never seen so much snow at one time. We even got to have a white Christmas. I hardly went out of the house for 2 weeks because the roads were so bad and even moved in with my parents for the time being because I was afraid of being snowed in and missing Christmas. I had a fun time hanging with my parents playing games and playing in the snow. We made a cute snowman and went sledding. I shoveled their driveway a few times and thought that would be the end, but NO! By the 5th time I had had it!

Isabella and Zoe loved the snow

Enjoying Christmas with snugly Sophers

Kiley and Mad's new Christmas outfits

...make a wish!

I love my family!

Sophie makes us laugh!

I am glad that the snow has finally melted and that I am back home. It has been a great 2008 and had a great night bringing in the New Year with lots of food and playing games with friends.

The apple DOES fall far from the tree!

2008-12-24T12:15:00.000-08:00

I have been staying at my parents house for about a week now because I was afraid of being snowed in at my house and missing Christmas.
The older I get the more I see that I am like my mother. That is a scary thing! (no offense mom) Since "living" here this past week I have observed some interesting facts about my mother that I hadn't really seen before and these qualities are not ones that I take after. In fact, we are the complete opposite on! My mother cannot leave the house without some kind of make-up on and have cute clothes on. Even if we are going out bundled in the snow to do some quick shopping she has to look in the mirror and freshen up! :) This bugs me because I could care less and throw on a hat, sweats and a jacket to hide the fact that I am not wearing a bra! Sorry if that's TMI!!! The other thing that I have noticed is that when someone comes to the door and she is wearing her PJ's she will run upstairs open the window and yell at whoever it is to say "just a minute." She will then hurry to throw something more decent on and may even throw a towel on her head if she feels inspired to. This cracks me up! I love my mother and I am giving her a hard time. I am sure I will be exactly like her when I get older! She is beautiful and I am glad she is the way she is. Maybe I should take some notes from her in the meantime so I can get a date. jk! Those who knew me in college can attest that dating and "impressing" others wasnt my strongest subject. :)
Merry Christmas everyone!!!

Date with mi papi

2008-12-14T01:06:00.000-08:00

Tonight my dad and I went to see the UW woman's volleyball team play. They were ranked 5th in the nation. They played Nebraska who is ranked 4th. It was a great game to watch. UW won the first two sets and Nebraska won the last three. Bummer they lost, but still a great game to see. Those girls are amazing to watch and it makes me watch to play so badly! :)

Also tonight was the first snowfall of the year.

Deck the Hall Ball 08'

2008-12-11T14:06:00.001-08:00

Thanks to my sister Carrie, I got to go see a few awesome bands play at the WaMu Theater on Tuesday. It was her Christmas and birthday gift to me. I got to see Aqueduct (they sucked), Shiny Toy Guns (awesome), Cold War Kids (they are ok), Death Cab for Cuttie (AWESOME) and the Killers (another Awesome)! Death Cab and the Killers put on an amazing show!!!
I had a blast and I loved it! It has been awhile since i've gone to a concert and i've forgotten the vibe of what it is like to be at one. The noise, the beats, the lights and the energy all make an upbeat experience.

I took some video clips of some of the songs I liked.
Thanks again Carrie! I had an amazing time! Thanks for letting me feel 20 again! :)

When you were young -The Killers

Soul Meets Body - Death Cab

I will follow you into the dark - Death Cab

I will posses your heart - Death Cab

Human - The Killers

Hangin with the girls

2008-12-06T00:15:00.001-08:00

I got to watch my nieces tonight. We had a ton of fun! We made pizza, ate the pizza, danced to music, played some games and watched Meet the Robinson's. I love being an auntie and glad they could hang out with me.

Kiley made me laugh so hard with her dance moves. Madison was obsessed with the remote to the radio and could not put it down. Sorry, this ends up being sideways.

My little chefs!

I want to eat Sophers and her smiling face!

We got to play one of my favorite games...Guess Who!

A game of Go Fish....which lasted about 10 turns.

Show your Thanks!

2008-12-03T00:01:00.000-08:00

I received a forwarded email from my mom and I think this is a good way to show how thankful we are and how appreciative we are for all that our troops do in serving our country. This is free and it only takes a minute.

Go to www.LetsSayThanks.com you can pick out a thank you card and Xerox will print it out and send it to a solider that is currently serving in Iraq. You you can't pick out who gets it, but it will go to some member of the armed services.

I tag everyone to pass this along so they can get a big stash this holiday season!

High School Tag....Thanks Marci! :P

2008-11-24T01:40:00.000-08:00

I am not a huge tag fan...but since I love Marci so, I will do this to make her happy!

1. Did you date someone from your school?
Nope

2. What kind of car did you drive?
198? Don't know the date...white ford escort. She was a beaut!

3. Did you pass your drivers test on your first try?
Written test i failed the first time....Driving test i passed the first time with flying colors.

4. Were you a party animal?
A little...

5. Were you considered a flirt?
haha I didn't know that men existed...I was too into sports. No I was really really shy. That's the truth!

6. Were you in band, orchestra or choir?
No. I retired band in Jr. High...thank goodness!

7. Were you a nerd?
Nope. I was pretty chill and got along with everyone.

8. Were you on any varsity teams?
Yes all 3 years...Varsity vball and bball.

9. Can you still sing the fight song?
No.

10. Who were your favorite teachers?
I didn't have a favorite. I had a few that I were pretty chill and liked a lot. I dont think teacher and favorite go together! :) I had favorites in elementary school. :)

11. Where did you sit for lunch?
Cafeteria. Brought my lunch everyday (thanks dad)! :)

12. What is you schools full name?
Federal Way High School

13. What is your schools mascot and colors?
Eagles...blue and white

14. Did you go to homecoming and with who?
No. I went to a tolo dance and my prom. I was lame and way too shy.

15. If you could go back and do it again would you?
Yes! I miss being with friends. I miss the sports teams. I would try harder in school. I would have more confidence in sports. But I would rather go back to college than high school.

16. What did you remember most about graduation?
The money. :)

17. Where did you go for senior skip day?
Dont remember that one.

18. Were you in any clubs?
Yeah dance clubs :)

19. Have you gained some weight since then?
No opposite.

20. Who was you prom date?
Blondie...I forget his name.

21. Are you planning on going to your 10 year reunion?
No. Maybe the 30 or 40 year when I am married and have children.

22. Did you have a job in high school?
No. I am the baby in the family...sports was my job. so spoiled :)

***I tag Kristin, Carrie, Nikki and Suz (girl you better get on this thing and do it!) :)

Out with the long and in with the short....

2008-11-14T20:53:00.001-08:00

I had the itch and I caved in. I cut my hair! Ahhhh! 6 inches shorter and it feels great!

Free anti virus

2008-11-07T22:15:00.001-08:00

I posted this before but it wasnt the right place to go (thanks to Kristin) so here is the right web address.
Enjoy!
http://free.avg.com/

California Voters Pass Ban on Gay Marriage

2008-11-05T13:04:00.000-08:00

LOS ANGELES -- California voters have approved a constitutional amendment outlawing same-sex marriage that overturns the state Supreme Court decision that gave gay couples the right to wed just months ago.

The passage of Proposition 8 represents a crushing political defeat for gay rights activists. They had hoped public opinion on the contentious issue had shifted enough to help them defeat the measure.

It also represents a personal loss for the thousands of couples from California and others states who got married in the brief window when they could. Legal experts have said it will have to be resolved in court whether their unions still are valid.

What a blessing it is to have this proposition pass. The world is a scary place and is going to continue to test our faith and strength in what we believe. I saw an exit poll in California that stated what percentage of men and women were for the ban and also another poll that had the percentages of ages who were for the ban on gay marriage. I noticed that the younger the age was, the smaller the percentage was for the protection of families and marriage. How important it is to teach our children what is right and to teach them to be examples and give them confidence to stand up for what they believe even if the rest of the world doesn't have the same views.

Halloween party at the McCombs

2008-11-02T15:24:00.000-08:00

This Halloween I went to the McCombs' annual party. Brett dressed up like a cowboy and got to wear real chaps, a holster and a gun. A pretty good lookin' cowboy if I do say so myself. :) I dressed up as an Indian. My mom helped me make my dress since it was hard to find a modest Indian costume. What Indian wore miniskirts and bras??!?!?!? I think they would have froze to death! :) The costume turned out good and it was fun spending quality time with my mom. She had so much going on and made many sacrifices to help me out at the last minute. Thank you mom!

In this picture you can kind of see my homemade moccasins! :)

Carrie and Damon as 70's hotties...nice chest hair Dam!

Anders and Kristin as Turner construction workers...(this was after they took all their gear off cause they were hot from competing at hoop shoot).

Marci, Jodi, Kelli and me in character

My new desk!

2008-10-21T16:17:00.000-07:00

The other night Brett got some new drills and was excited to put them to use. He had wanted to build me a desk for awhile and now he had the opportunity to. The desk turned out great and I am excited to have a normal workstation. :) The next step is to paint or stain it black.
Thanks to Brett my lil' handyman for the desk!

No more speaker phone!!!

2008-10-15T15:02:00.000-07:00

For the past 6 months the only way I could talk on my cell phone was by using the speaker phone function. I never had privacy and had to choose when I wanted to answer my phone depending on where I was at or who was near me. Ghetto I know! I was waiting for my upgrade to come around and it finally came. I guess you can upgrade 18 to 19 months into your contract. So I probably could have gotten a new phone a lot sooner, but didn't know! I have to say getting a new phone is similar to if you were stranded on an island sleeping on the beach for a year. I still am tempted to click on the speaker phone button. Not quite used to the normal form of communication yet and it sure does feel weird to have something touching your ear. :)

I like this song...

2008-10-14T17:13:00.001-07:00

and I like the dancing even better!!!

My mother

2008-10-12T23:54:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to show my gratitude for my mother. I am thankful that she has a tender heart and is so thoughtful and kind. She always seems to amaze me with her ability to serve others. I love her for who she is and for always letting me know that she cares and thinks about my needs. Thanks for being you mom and for always being my cheerleader. You have a special place in my heart..I love you!

YMCA Soccer

2008-10-11T16:14:00.000-07:00

Kiley and Madison started their first year of soccer. I got to see them in action for their first soccer game. They had a double header and I was a pretty excited and proud auntie for the first 30 minutes of their first game. The second game was just a tad bit too much soccer for me. Kiley ran around following the pack and those poor kids were so tired from all that soccer. Madison got put in as goalie soon after the game started and got scored on. She didn't like that and didn't return to the game. Kiley did great and played the whole time. At one point I got pretty emotional because I wanted to have MY own kids at their soccer game and I wanted to cheer them on! :) I guess nieces and nephews will have to do for now! They both did a great job and it is so fun to see their athleticism shine.

Madison got the first kick to start off the game!

Kiley did such a great job as goalie!!! Look at that ready position! "Natural athlete"

Madison as goalie before things went sour.

Sophers cheering on her older sisters.

Madison zoned out of the game and was more interested in what these kids were playing with.

After the game the whole fam went out to lunch. Caleb, Porter and I playing outside enjoying the warm sun.

Oh to live in the 50's...

2008-10-08T09:58:00.000-07:00

My sister showed this to me and I thought it would be fun to see what I would have looked like back then...

1950

1952...my personal favorite

1958

1960...the 60's make me look smart

1966

1968

1974

1978...I always had some soul in me

1984

1988

1990...another one of my best shots

1994

1996

You are in the hole...or is it you are on deck?!?!

2008-10-01T22:00:00.000-07:00

I still don't know which one comes first. You would think I would know after 6 months of playing softball. Our Fall season ended. We had our last game last night and lost. We tied for 3rd. It was fun while it lasted and I will see you ladies next Spring!!!

Kayaking at Owen's Beach

2008-09-28T02:06:00.000-07:00

Marci and I went to Owen's Beach today to do some sea kayaking. What an adventure! I was kind of scared! We did some strenuous paddle strokes out in the ocean and all I saw was a jelly fish, a seal and the back of Marci's head. It was the perfect day to go out on the water. I thought we would never see the sun again since fall has begun and has been raining ever since. We had a clear shot of Mt. Rainier and the weather was great! What fun!

I did the Puyallup!

2008-09-20T22:39:00.000-07:00

Kelli, Marci and I went to the Puyallup Fair today! And what a day to go to the fair. It rained the whole time and I was wearing flip flops and no coverage for my head! Luckily Marci brought her umbrella. While me and Marci waited for Kelli meet us, we headed inside to check out the shops. I had a few things on my agenda that I wanted to accomplish and one of those was to see the "Sham Wow" booth. Whenever I see the infomercial on TV I am mesmerized every time!

Then we got acupuncture therapy...I don't quite know what it does, but it has something to do with twitching my nerves. My right arm kept throwing itself....quite a weird feeling.

Then we stopped at a hand lotion booth which Marci made me go to the wolf wearing sweatshirt lady who told me her whole life story! Couldn't wait to get out of that one. (sorry no pictures of that event!)

By that time Kelli had arrived and we headed straight for the elephant ears which was another agenda item. I hadn't been to the fair for 8 years so I had been waiting for this moment for a long time. :) I actually felt sick after eating it. I should have split one, but I couldn't resist.

...then we stood in the Scones line (another thing I wanted to do at the fair). That line was ridiculous. It took us 40 minutes to get ours. By the time we reached the front, our count of scones moved from 3 to a bakers dozen! :)

I was amazed at their process of making scones.

Then we got to do the last thing on my list which was to see the hypnotist. I laughed my head off! My favorite part was when the men had babies and were told to play with them and throw them in the air. Then they were told that when they threw them up in the air they got lost up there. After a moment of looking for them, the hypnotist said they were coming back down really fast. One guy flew on the floor to catch his....too funny!

I love the fair, the food and the environment! Cant wait for next year. Thanks for the ticket Marci!

P.s. Kelli and Marci, don't ever buy an Enzo product again! ;)

Sheep Lake

2008-09-13T23:24:00.000-07:00

Marci, Janae, Scott, Brett and I went for an easy 2 miler to camp at Sheep Lake. We picked the best two days to go. It was the last few nice days before the rains came. We got there around 5 and set up camp and started cooking our foil dinners. The winds picked up and gushed down in the canyon once the sun set so we called it a night around 9. Everyone migrated to the girls tent to play games, but ended up eating Oreos and watching a mini game of Connect Four. I used my moms great sleeping bag that was supposed to keep me warm. I thought I was going to die of coldness that night. :) So needless to say, I was the first one up in the morning and started the fire so i could defrost. The next day after we ate breakfast Scott, Brett and I headed over to the lake to do some fishing. We all caught some fish, but only kept 3 because they were small. I could have fished all day but the other girls were getting antsy so we took another short hike up to Crystal Lake. We saw some great views of Mt. Rainier, Adams and St. Helens. Cant wait till spring to do it again.

Cooking our foil dinners...we were ravenous!

Scott, Brett and I fishing....I think this was right before I hooked my nose. Ouch!

Marci loves fires!

Brett's homemade trail mix...yummie!

View of Sheep Lake from our hike.

We reached the top of the mountain.

Girls posin in front of Mt. Rainer

Crystal Lake

Heading back to our campsite.

Go Huskies!

2008-09-06T22:35:00.000-07:00

Marci, Scott, Brett and I went to the BYU Huskies game! Scott had two amazing tickets so Marci and I got shafted up in the very top corner. We had the luxury of climbing up 3 "swirly whirly's" and even did some stair steps before we got to our seats! It was hard not to cheer for both teams, but I had to stay loyal to Washington.

Camping at Westport

2008-08-29T10:19:00.001-07:00

Marci, Kelli and I went camping in Westport (near Ocean Shores). Camping by the highway and in the rain, i'd say it was an okay time, BUT driving home with the girls....that made up for it! 1,2,3,4...

In the local village we came across an alien spaceship, I had to get a picture with it. I got suckered in by the rotating head and flashing lights!

Family pics

2008-08-25T09:22:00.000-07:00

Andrea got her wish....family pictures!

Crazy summer night!

2008-08-17T11:39:00.000-07:00

I got woken up like many people did in Washington on Sunday at 4 AM. We had been having some hot weather the past few days. I am not used to to rain so its nice to see a crazy storm once in awhile. I was a little scared, but I loved it. The thunder got progressively worse and started setting off multiple car alarms and the power. That is when I grabbed my camera and took some pics. Here is what I saw from my window.

This is a before shot...

....and boom!

Here are a couple pictures of Isabella. She was either scared from the noise or just wanted to snuggle back in bed. I couldn't really tell which one.

An accomplished life

2008-08-13T17:14:00.000-07:00

Grandpa Sandberg made it to his 101st birthday on Aug 3rd...
He finally passed away August 13th at 5am. We love you grandpa and will see you again!

Go Mariners!!

2008-08-04T20:51:00.000-07:00

Marci, Michelle, Adam and I went to see the mariners kick trash as they came back to win the game with a grand slam!!!

“Veni, Vidi, Vici.”

2008-08-02T23:24:00.000-07:00

Aka...I came, I saw, I conquered.

Marci, Janaye and I climbed Mt. Si this Saturday. What an accomplishment! It was a 4 mile hike one way and for someone who doesn't hike very often I cant believe I actually wanted to go. It was a nasty day so I cant show you any beautiful views of Mt. Rainier at the top, but none the less I was proud that I did it. Marci and Janaye were training for their big suicidal adventure in the swiss mountains so they wore back packs and looked like mountaineers. I looked like a tennis player/runner/abercrombie blondie!

Almost 101...

2008-07-23T16:26:00.000-07:00

August 3rd will be Grandpa Sandberg's 101st birthday! We hope he reaches that number just because he is so close, but we also want him to pass very quickly. I got the news that grandpa had a minor stroke today. The past few weeks he has done some abnormal things and just has been slowly going down hill more and more. Now that he has had a stroke he needs more attention so he will be going to a nursing home/rehabilitation center. We pray for him to pass before he has to go to a nursing home. Apparently minor strokes indicates that more will come until a big stroke.
My grandpa has lived a great life and will leave behind a wonderful legacy and posterity!
We love you Grandpa and pray that you will be with Grandma again!

Sophie's big day...

2008-07-20T20:51:00.000-07:00

Sunday we all go together for the blessing of Sophie May. It was a great time to be with family and to be with the Bjorn families. Sophie looked so precious in her white dress and her cute lil' white daisy on her head. Here are some pics of the day...

Caleb L-O-V-E-D the tractor! That and the tree swing was a huge hit!

3 & 7

2008-07-16T14:14:00.000-07:00

H3 Architects just finished the Spring/Summer softball league. We finished with 3 wins and 7 losses. The last game was a double header and we won them both. Way to finish off the season ladies!!! I had a good time and I cant wait for fall ball to start!

Camping at Penrose

2008-07-14T21:51:00.000-07:00

This weekend I went camping with my family. Kris and Anders couldn't make it, but we took their kids. My bro and sister in law drove over from Oregon to come visit. It was fun to see them and especially Will and Mya!

It definitely wasn't a "relaxing trip," but I loved being "auntie," "mother" and "babysitter" for the weekend. Our camping session consisted of game playing, playing at the ocean and lots of eating!

All the kids had their share of smores and showed their bellies for proof...they were so full!!!

Grandpa tells the best stories and they couldn't get enough of them...(ie. Madison all up in his face)

I wasn't able to finish out one night in the tent. I didn't have an air mattress so my bones went numb after a few hours of sleeping on solid ground. I ended up in my car. It was lonesome, but I had Isabella snuggled down in the bottom of my sleeping bag with me...it worked!

We had a great time and its always good to be with family!

Thanks for the fun weekend!

Night in Seattle

2008-07-06T21:40:00.000-07:00

I was privileged to go into Seattle Saturday night with Marcalicious (real name not disclosed). I suggested that we go eat at Ipanema (Brazilian restaurant) which is similar to Rodizio in Utah. We found out it was $40 per person and there was also a 30 minute wait so we acted like we were rich and really hungry and that we didn't think we could wait those 30 minutes so we turned straight out and left. We ended up going to some mexi restaurant right up the street. We both had a "super burrito" and it was tasty.

Before we went to eat we stopped by the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory because every time I go to Seattle (which is not often) I have to get me an apple! WARNING! These apples aren't your normal Gala or Fuji...they are covered it goodness! You will be hooked. The one in particular that I am ranting about is called "Apple Pie Carmel Apple." Mmmm delicioso!

Marci maybe next time we can get us some Seattle shirts! :)

Pool Party

2008-06-28T17:27:00.000-07:00

Today all the kids came over to my house to have a pool party. It was a hot day, but the water was freezing so it took a long while to get everyone in and used to the pool. Even then they couldn't stay in the water long. I'm glad everyone came! I was excited to see Caleb show off his swimming skills. Apparently he can flip twice. He loves the water and hardly touched it with his toes so I didn't get to see him show off. Maybe next time the pool will be warmer and we can enjoy it!

Looking back on Hawaii

2008-06-28T14:33:00.000-07:00

Today marks the day when I moved to Hawaii exactly 2 years ago! Wow..I cant believe it! I thought when I first moved there that a year would be so far away and that I would never have to worry about moving back to the mainland.
That was the best time of my life and I loved everything about my experience there. I was blessed with a great job, beautiful surroundings and great friends! Hawaii will always be my home away from home.

Oh how I sure do miss snow cones!

2 weeks old with sisters

2008-06-26T13:40:00.000-07:00

Kiley, Madison and Sophie May. Sophie definitely looks like Anders! Lil monkey buns...she is so cute!

YSA Conference

2008-06-20T23:57:00.000-07:00

Tonight I went to part of the YSA Conference that is all weekend long. I got to see Corbin Allred speak to us about his life and he played us some songs too. I thought he looked familiar, but I had no idea what he was on. He's been on Teen Angel and Sabrina the Teenage Witch as well as other movies. I really like his character. He hasnt gotten lost in the Hollywood environment and seems pretty grounded. He spoke about this one experience that he had with a girl that he met and he said that she looked down. He approached her and talked to her for a good 10 minutes. The girl ended up telling him all these problems in her life and he just listened. He felt that he was really connected to her and felt so compassionate for her. Long story short he said keep your head up and know that you are loved and people do care about you etc. etc. Come to find out a couple days later the high school counselor from her school called Corbin's mom up and said that this particular girl doesn't need to come in to see him anymore because she said she is all better. That story (told so much better by Corbin) was so touching. He said he basis his life off of 3 words. "You never know." You never know what kind of influence you have in other people's lives. It inspired me to be better and more in tune so that I can help others because "you never know."

Another great thing about Corbin is that when his carrier in LA was taking off, he faithfully served a 2 year mission. He told a story that one time him and his buddies were at some function and they got to meet Elder Monson at the time. Elder Monson shook their hands with a firm handshake and said I know who you are. Instead of asking about his carrier or anything else, he asked those boys where they served their missions. Corbin froze. Did I serve a mission? I remember going to Australia. Finally he said yes and he was so thankful that he could stand there in from of Elder Monson and say that he served a mission.

Later that night we also got a treat to hear from the talented pianist Mr. Jon Schmidt. Wow was I blown away by him. I recognized a few songs of his and just couldn't put my recorder down. I wish I could play the piano. What a beautiful sound. I am definitely making my children play!!!

It was a great night and I am glad I went...

A special visitor

2008-06-20T10:28:00.000-07:00

For the past couple weeks I have been privileged to be accompanied by a pair of songbirds. A few times a day I hear tapping on my window and i wonder if it is trying to get my attention, if it really wants in or if its starving! Once I saw it perched on my windowsill it's breath was on the window...cute! Well now that this is a daily occurrence we have become very fast friends and I decide to get to know my fine furry friend a little better. Come to find out its mating season! Go figure! This is what I learn....

"Birds attack shiny surfaces because they see their own reflections. In the case of a window, the bird does not see through the glass: it sees a reflection of the outside, possibly trees and the sky, and another bird of its own species. The real bird does not recognize itself and mistakes the reflected bird for a competitor for territory or mates. It attacks the image in the window, trying to drive the other bird away. Of course, this is a fruitless exercise. The real bird often returns many times, compulsively launching itself at the window. If it is very aggressive, it could damage its beak, but most often it just wastes energy and time."

Romantic? I think so.

The worlds greatest dad!

2008-06-16T15:03:00.000-07:00

We had a beautiful and wonderful fathers day! The weather reached 70 which allowed us to use the grill and be outside. We had delicious shishcabobs, (don't know how to spell that) watermelon, salad, corn on the cob and strawberry shortcake.
A special bonus to that day was to see Sophie...what a great addition to the family. She was so cute. I finally got to see her with her eyes open. My favorite thing was just hanging with the fam and loving on my nieces and nephews. Its the best to be an auntie. I love it! I have an amazing dad. He is very supportive and selfless. My dad is an example of hard work and service. Throughout my education years (K-12) he has made my lunch. My dad never misses a day of work and has provided for everything I have ever needed in my life and more!

I love you dad! Happy fathers day!

Oh and Carrie we rock at Spades! 523 to 499!!! Happy Fathers Day dad!

I'm in love...

2008-06-13T07:32:00.000-07:00

This is a little pitch for all those who are in love with the smell of cologne like I am. Every time I pass by the fragrance section, I need to get a whiff of Light Blue by Dolce & Gabbana. I highly recommend this scent to anyone who is in need of a new smell or someone who is looking for a great gift. Men + good smell = delicious!

FYI...Fathers day is a few days away...

I have an addiction

2008-06-11T10:55:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my freshman year in college I was reintroduced to Otter Pops (thank you Suz). I remember eating them when I was young and that one Otter Pop was it a treat, but now that I am an adult and I can buy them on my own and have the free agency to eat them whenever I want...I am telling you that is not a good combination! I went to the grocery store to make my first purchase of the summer and they couldn't be found. I asked the lady at check out if they carried them. She said no, but was surprised they were still around...I said heck yes! I mention how much I love them and could eat 5 at a time. She then proceeds to tell me that she has an addiction where every morning she fills up her 72 oz. cup full of ice. I said she was Anemic and she told me NO. haha I guess my addiction isn't so bad after all. Maybe I should switch to chomping on ice....at least it has zero calories!
If anyone is considering joining the band wagon of the Otter Pop craze you can find them at Wal-Mart. (Caution...you cant just have one)!

Sophie May's first day...

2008-06-10T11:11:00.000-07:00

Sophie May is Coming Today!!!

2008-06-09T10:25:00.000-07:00

What a special day. I am so excited to be an Auntie all over again! My sister is having her 3rd child today. I am thankful for all my brothers and sisters who have sacrificed so many things to be able to serve and love their children. I am the luckiest Aunt 7 times over! Happy Birthday Sophie...cant wait to hold you snuggle buns!

...7 lbs 15 oz. 20 in. and lots of hair! Pictures soon to follow!