Team Ward

The big 5

2012-02-11T08:14:00.000-08:00

December 29 was our five year anniversary. We celebrated it eating at our favorite restaurant and mini golfing. It was low key and wonderful.

We have a small problem, there is this restaurant called Joe's and we eat there all the time. All. The. Time. It's so good we don't want to try anything else.

We had some ribs...

And the biggest baked potato ever....mmmmm soooo goooood

I was one happy girl!

And since we are living in Arizona, we went mini golfing in December with all the Christmas lights. Super cool!

Andrew won our mini golf game, but it was only because one the the holes took me 6 attempts. I will get him next time. Happy five years babe, I love you!

Christmas in Utah

2012-01-15T07:01:00.000-08:00

I just love Christmas time! Love it. We had lots of fun with family and friends this year. At the beginning of December we went to my work Christmas party which was held at the Arizona Grand hotel. A fancy hotel with fancy clothes. I was struggling over what to wear until the day of the party when I found this wonderful skinny black dress that fit the bill perfectly. The party was sooo fun. They had a fantastic dinner with a chocolate bar for dessert and dancing. I even got Andrew to dance one slow dance with me(A small miracle). It was a blast. We only got this one picture and it was as we were leaving. My new year's resolution is to take more pictures because I suck at it.

We left the nice 80 degree weather for a white Christmas in Utah....or a brown Christmas since it seemed there was no snow in Utah. Anyway, we had fun. It just so happened that our old basement apartment in Nate's house was empty so we got to stay with our old neighbors. I was like old times, sniff, sniff.

We of course had cookie day which is always fun and delicious followed by an all you can eat trip with the family to Ginza to all you can eat sushi. Yum!(sorry Andrew)

Missy Moo made the aprons this year and she rocked them!

This is us laughing at Cassi's really loud nose breathing as we were posing for pictures.

We are showing off our awesome new aprons!

We had a little lunch from Jimmy John's but I am really not sure what Cassi is up to. Maybe she is focusing on not breathing so loud.

Um. Ohhh ohhh I got it. Shell is a duck, and Cassi is a angry duck.

They were just plumb tuckered out after making all those cookies. But we sure had fun making them!

Andrew and I have a little tradition of hiking up Millcreek canyon on Christmas eve morning. Sometimes we need snowshoes but this year, we just needed tennis shoes due to the serious lack of snow. We were hiking in dirt much of the time. Weird. We took Austin and Michelle with us and here is the picture of them. Now maybe Michelle will send me the one of me and Andrew she took on her camera. Hint hint.

We spend the rest of Christmas doing yummy Christmas eve dinner at Cassi's and Christmas day at Grandma Kofford's. We did not get any pictures of these things. Maybe my dad did and he will send them to me. I had so much fun with friends and family, I sure do miss them. Andrew was a good husband and stalked my pinterest account to buy my Christmas presents. I got this great Fossil watch with rose gold and some wonderful boots from Nordstrom. I also got some bowls, which I love, from west elm.

New couch, Thanksgiving and Christmas decorations

2011-12-06T03:49:00.000-08:00

We have been looking for a new coffee table for a while and we went into a local furniture store called the Potato Barn to take a look. We came out with a couch. What! Ya, we impulse buy. We have hated our couch for many moons for multiple reasons. We saw this one and fell in love immediately.

And its super comfy.

And now for Thanksgiving

We had a nice thanksgiving with just Andrew and I. It was so relaxing. I made ham, homemade stuffing, homemade rolls, grandma's rasleberry pie, fruit salad, asparagus and of course the staple mashed potatoes and gravy.

I have a problem for cooking for just two people, but we had amazing leftovers for a week! YUM!
Notice the Indians at the table-they are our only Thanksgiving deocrations.

My cute hubby with his plate loaded

The after math, wishing he hadn't eaten so much.

Here is my very first homemade pie. The W of course for Ward. I made the crust from scratch and it was more difficult than I thought it would be. I had to do it twice per a small minute mistake on the first batch. Pie crust dough is very finicky. But I prevailed and here is the beautiful result. I have to thank my wonderful grandma Kofford for the recipe. She is one of the best cooks I know. She makes everything from scratch and it is always amazing. And this pie, AMAZING.

Andrew and I have had the week of Thanksgiving off and we have taken the time to do a lot of Christmas decoration shopping. You see, we love Christmas. A lot. We already have a significant number of decorations but you can never have enough. We spent the day after thanksgiving putting up all our decorations and finding our real Christmas tree.

I couldn't resist the fat Santa or the owl(quite possibly best decoration ever)

Here is the wonderfully smelling Christmas tree we picked out this year after MUCH(on Andrew's part) of deliberation and driving around. Picking a tree is an art form you see. Andrew is master.
Side note: While I was sitting on the couch at about 3 am(I work graves, don't judge my messed up sleep schedule) I looked over to see the tree crashing to the ground breaking many of these ornaments. Sad. I then had to call to Andrew to help me get it back up and redecorate and clean up all the glass pieces at 3am.

Andrew loves to put lights on the house. We chose colored lights this year because they just make me happy. He got to use his new Little Giant ladder to put these up, highlight of his week.

I just threw this in there because we were taking a nap on the couch and it was so perfect I had to take a picture.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Good Friends

2011-11-27T16:43:00.000-08:00

Because we all know I am a huge slacker-I am just now writing about our good friends who came to visit us in October. Ahem. We have missed living with the Skousens and as fate would have it, Geoff had to come to Arizona for an interview so we got to spend the week with them. It happened to be a really hot week in Arizona(weird right...) so all our outdoor activities were limited. I am so sad but we really only got one good picture of me and Alisha and it was at the swimming pool.

Alisha and I were back row nursing buddies with a similar sense of humor. Ever since then we have been best friends. Alisha is all sorts of Martha-e and because I need my hand held, she and I do fun projects together. She taught me how to can food, blog, cook delicious food, take pictures, do crafty things and now she has got me(and Andrew) hooked on pinterest(shaking fist) We always have such a good time together!

We took a little outing to papa-go park but it was 100 degrees so we didn't stay long but Henry had a blast as always.

We tried our hand at making caramel apples

It started out good.....

And this is what came out....don't laugh. They weren't our best work. And they were rock hard.

But we ate them anyway!

Alisha is an amazing photographer. As such I have stolen all of these pictures from her. But she also offered to take me and Andrew's pictures. Turns out, me and Andrew had some misunderstandings about the pictures and so by the time he got there it was almost dark. But, being the amazing photographer she is, she still managed to get some good pics.

We are so glad they came to visit and hope they come again. It was so fun to have them around like old times-sniff sniff.

Halloween!

2011-11-04T04:57:00.000-07:00

In case you can't tell, I'm Olive Oyl and am cheating on Popeye with Indiana Jones

(He's so much hotter)

Henry wanted to be in the picture too but turned away at the last minute. He has to be a part of everything.

Andrew kept changing his mind on what he was going to be and put his awesome costume together in the last 2 hours before the party. We went to an ER work party with a bunch of drunk people-always entertaining.

And I made these homemade doughnuts-first time and they were amazing. Alicia was my inspiration as she made these for me last year. Apple cider doughnuts-delicious.

Seaworld

2011-10-26T03:48:00.000-07:00

Seaworld rocks! We had so much fun there. We went to all the shows and spent all day there. I am so amazed by all the animals and the shows they put on. The killer whales were so cool. They would go around the pool and splash people with their tails and everyone in the first 15 rows got soaked. And I mean soaked.

Ok, seriously how cool are these guys.

They would swim up on to this platform and use their tales to spin themselves around a few times and "break dance"

So cool right, the show was amazing and thoroughly kept me entertained the whole time. They were jumping and splashing and interacting with the trainers. It was so amazing.

Then they had a big "Shamu Rocks" finali at the end of the night with all 4 killer whales. And that was even cooler

I loved the lighting, it made for some awesome pictures

They are waving at the crowd. Notice the bleachers behind them are totally empty because we had all been to the earlier show and got wet and it was a little nippy outside now. Everyone sat a little farther away this time.

See the top of the tail. This is about 2 seconds before getting splashed. The whales would swim around the edge of the pool and use their tales to splash people.

And now on to the dolphins...

Um, what kid/adult wouldn't want to be a dolphin trainer after watching this?

I mean, riding dolphins. Soooo jealous

I price-lined a hotel the night before we left and we got a great hotel with an awesome view

Later that night we went out to the gaslamp district for some dinner and treats. After walking around for about an hour we(the two most indecisive people ever) finally decided on this burger place. There, I had the best burger I have ever had in my life-it was called the stinky burger. I had this blue cheese sauce on it that was to die for. And for dessert we went here....

and ate this...

and it was as good as it looks.

The whole quick trip.

You stay classy San Diego

2011-10-19T06:44:00.000-07:00

Andrew had Friday off a week ago so we took advantage and took a short drive over to San Diego. We drove straight to the zoo for some animal fun.

Ok really, can you get any more cute than this? I don't think so.

And don't forget the Elephants! I love them-so very much. Seriously, ever since I visited them in Africa I think they are the coolest. Ever.

And when you get tired, you can lay your head down on your own butt.

But our favorites of the zoo, were the monkeys and the orangutans. They were hilarious!

It first started with the monkey's. This little baby hit it's mom in the head and then ran away. When she tried to escape, he chased after her and wouldn't leave her alone.

The burlap sac

I don't know why but all the orangutans wanted this burlap sac, but they did

They would steal it from each other- one monkey in particular was so fun to watch. He just harassed the other animals. Swinging on the ropes and rolling in the grass. I seriously could have watched him all day. I tried to get some video of it but it just doesn't do him justice.

If you have ever been to the San Diego zoo, it's enormous. And it's on a big hill. So to get back up the hill, you ride the moving walkways! Genius!

We got to the zoo a little late so we only had a few hours. We practically ran through it but managed to see almost everything. The weather was perfect and we had a blast. I highly recommend to those of you who haven't been.

We're THOSE people

2011-10-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

You know those people with one hand out the window holding the mattress on? Ya we're those people.
Ok, Andrew actually did a great job tying the mattress on and we didn't have any problems but all I could think of the whole way home was "please don't fly off, please don't fly off" We totally kept sticking our hands out the window to see if the mattress was lifting at all but Andrew's knots held like a champ. I say that because when I asked him what kind of knot he was tying-he shrugged his shoulders and said "I don't know?" So you just made them up? "yep"

We got the mattress home safe and sound so we could put it in our guest bedroom for the Skousen's (and anyone else who wants) to come and visit. We are so glad they came to visit and everything seemed to work out great. More to come soon.....

Haboob

2011-09-01T03:33:00.000-07:00

It's coming..... Da da da.

It's here!

We were on our way to Target when we saw the haboob coming. We took some pictures on the way in the store. We were only in the store for a few minutes to get a gallon of milk and when we came out the dust storm was here. I don't think this picture even does it justice, you couldn't see anything. It was kind of cool to watch it coming though, I could almost hear theme music.

White Coat Ceremony

2011-08-02T22:15:00.000-07:00

Well, he's official. Andrew had his white coat ceremony officially starting off his schooling/career as a PA. Doesn't he look handsome. He is in the middle of finals this week and is studying hard! 1 Semester almost done already! I can't believe it. On another note-I got a job! Yeah! I will be working in the ER at Chandler Regional hospital. I officially worked my last day in Utah on Sunday and drove back to Arizona today. It's not really fun to drive 12 hours by yourself, there was a lot of singing to chick music along the way. I start my new job on Monday so wish me luck!

Those poor other souls who Andrew spends all his time in the library with. All I have to say is I am soooo glad I am done with school and I swear I am never going back. ever. Congrats Andrew and friends and good luck on finals this week!

Air conditioning fiasco

2011-07-11T21:01:00.000-07:00

Soooo, here we are in good old AZ, in 112 degree weather and wake up to a broken air conditioner. Well hmmmm this could be bad. So we headed off to Home Depot to buy a new filter because, apparently, that is the number one cause of an air conditioner to freeze up. And by freeze up, I mean there is actually ice on the pipe and condenser. I still really don't get this because its 112 degrees outside. pretty much all the time, how is ice forming! But whatever, so we go and get new filters, put them in and whaaalaa. Nothin'. Nada. So we let the ice melt completely again and turn it back on. Still no go Romeo. So I call our rental manager, and no answer, left a message and called the office. "We can't do anything," they say, "you must go through you rental manager." Well I won't get into the details but I spent the next 3 hours on the phone-literally-I do not exaggerate this. I was so upset I was in tears. And for those of you who know me, this is a monumental occasion. Pretty much everyone who I talked to had no idea what was going on or who was going to fix it. And that's when I actually talked to someone. Most of the time I just called and left messages for unknown people who were supposed to be "taking care of the problem." So about 6:00, on a friday night, I am starting to freak out. It was 96 degrees inside my house and its the weekend. I then get a call from my property manager(finally-4 hours later) saying someone is on the way to fix it, and next time to text him if I had a problem because the office people are retarded(ya think!). So 8:00 the AC guy shows up and goes up into the attic for about 30 minutes and comes down with the blower. We need a new one and as luck would have it, he doesn't have that model so we will have to wait till morning. 96 degrees people-let me stress the ridiculousness of how hot that is INSIDE. So we spent the night, me sleeping on the couch in my underwear, with ice packs and two fans and Andrew upstairs after he hosed himself and the dog off-literally. I did not take any pictures of this because I was ridiculous. I could not function and all I did was eat otter pops. The only reason I moved was to refill my ice bags. Our air conditioner was fixed about 1200 the next day but I was miserable throughout this fiasco. I am someone who hates to be cold. So much that I own an obscene amount of coats/jackets/fleeces. I love to be warm. So why, you ask, was I so miserable? Here is what I have discovered. I don't do well with extremes in temperature. Either way-too cold, or too hot. But in the end, life can resume because our AC is now working and I am at a perfect temperature.

Andrew rigged up a perfect system to try and get a tan the next day, Henry thought he would join him. Notice the mist keeping them cool. Henry only lasted about 5 minutes before he was done playing that game.

I made these chicken puffs last night and they were great except I messed up a little. When I was making the dough, the recipe said to cut into 24 pieces, I somehow read 12 pieces. So all my chicken puffs were Gigantic. I don't think this picture does them justice. They were the size of my hand with all my fingers stretched out. They were huge-but totally delicious. So delicious in fact that Andrew got sick(from the dairy-lactose intolerant) and he still had one for lunch the next day. But I still have 9 more puffs for someone to eat. So who's in?

While in Utah...

2011-07-05T21:24:00.000-07:00

Well, it is true. I do live in Arizona but came back to Utah for a few weeks to work. It was a whirl wind trip. I worked 150 hours in two weeks but also had some time for some fun with family and friends.

I went to the strawberry days rodeo with my sisters and learned some very important lessons.

1. There IS such thing as too much teeth whitening.

2. If you sit on the front row, you will get dirty.

3. Always buy two strawberries and cream for your significant other.

4. When horses pee, it's like a fire hose is spraying out of their bum.

5. If you corner the cow, you can milk it.

I took some of these lessons I learned at the rodeo and decided to take my friend Megan up on her offer to go horseback riding. Me and Aps took turns riding Sky and I even got her to trot a little. It was a blast. Now I just have to convince Andrew to let me take riding lessons in Arizona...

See, don't I look like a natural.

I also got to go four-wheeling with the parentals out at knolls. We had lots of fun just bumming around

Yeah for fun in Utah! See you in two weeks!

New Table!

2011-07-05T19:10:00.000-07:00

Ok folks, here I am again, updating my blog. I figured I should because I get so annoyed when I am reading blogs and people don't update. I mean who does that...Anyway....I am so excited to tell you that after much much table hunting, I found the perfect table for my new house. I am not even joking when I tell you that I went to 12 stores looking for said table. They were all just blah, but I saw this one and it was fantastic, we were instant soul mates. And to make it even better, it was on sale and had an extra 10% off. You think that's awesome, well just so happens they had sold out of this table and so all they had left was the floor model so I go and additional 10% off! Some things are just meant to be.

Isn't it great!

And just for funzies, this is how I found my husband and his best friend the other day.

Arizona-It's really hot here

2011-06-06T14:44:00.000-07:00

Well, here we are. We are now officially living in Arizona. We left last Sunday morning and drove the 12 hours straight to get here. It was a little bumpy and a lot windy but we made it safe and sound. We then had the pleasure of unloading the truck. Luckily, our friends the Linn's came and helped us or else we still might be unloading it. The Linn's have been awesome, they helped us find a place to live, let us crash at their house and helped us unload our truck. I don't know what I would have done without their help! We are settling in nicely and have unpacked most of the boxes. Here is our new little house that I am sooooo excited about. We have always lived in basements and there are so many things I miss.

Yeah! Notice the windows above ground. oooooohhh aaaahhhhhhh

And look- 2 sinks and a tub!

This is our 5x8 yard with astroturf

This is Andrew vacuuming our astroturf-its kind of like mowing the lawn, but not really

And check out the dishwasher IN the counter. No rollaway needed

This is the living room, Andrew is hiding. We need a kitchen table where I am standing but we don't have one yet

The master bedroom with ample space. Even enough to let Andrew put his dresser in the room instead of banish him to the spare bedroom

Now, you can all come and visit me. I may warn you-it is hot here. Very hot. I actually enjoy it but you definitely have to stay inside. If you are outside, water is required. It is nice here. Everything is so clean and there are a ton of parks and walkways. Andrew and I have taken a couple of bike rides since we got here and I must say, I'm a better biker at sea level. But to my dismay, there are no hills to ride down(but no hills to ride up either) just flat, miles of flat. I have spent the week getting settled, changing all the addresses, unpacking boxes, getting utilities set up, etc. Not exactly what I would call fun but necessary. I also had and interview at St. Joseph's hospital but I can only say the interview went...eh. Neither bad nor good, just eh. I should find out this week but I am not keeping my hopes up, I felt like they already had someone for the job. If I don't get the job, I will be returning to Utah this week sometime. Andrew has orientation Wednesday and Thursday and starts school next Monday. Oooooooh! Till then I will keep you updated.

Chuck Norris never ran a marathon

2011-05-06T16:18:00.000-07:00

Well, to be fair neither did I, just Half-but still. April 16, I ran my second half marathon in SLC, Utah. I am going to post my time, please don't make fun, I am still working on it. 2:39 min. I thought I actually did pretty well for not training for the last 4 weeks prior to the race(thanks Michelle and your wedding). It was a little rough, my bones and muscles were not my friends for a few days but I finished, and that's all that counts.

This is the famous liberty park orange that gives you a little something extra to finish. It is always the best orange I have ever eaten.

The crew, minus Jed, Jill and I both go free massages after the race and it was divine. Divine.

One day, I will beat my sister, who is a really good runner. One day.

playing catch-up

2011-04-30T10:55:00.000-07:00

So I have been super slacker lately and am trying to catch up on weeks of fun before the big move (duh duh daaaa)
A little over a month ago my best friend from nursing school had a little baby girl. A few of us went out to lunch to celebrate at the garden restaurant at the top of the Joseph Smith Memorial building

the mom to be..

I got all ambitious and made her this quilt. I think it turned out rather well for only my second baby quilt! Aren't you impressed? You should be. Alicia's baby Elizabeth came shortly after our outing and she was beautiful. We were out of town for a funeral when she came but she was just as cute when we got home. Congrats to Alica, Geoff and Abby!

A few weeks ago, Andrew and I were able to get away and go skiing up at Deer Valley for a day thanks to our good friend Don. When we got up the mountain, it was overcast. As we rode up the lift, the clouds parted and it turned out to be a gorgeous day. Almost too gorgeous, it was one thousand degrees with all our ski gear on, I had stripped down to almost nothing by lunchtime and my pockets were bulging with extra shirts. I have actually never skied at Deer Valley and was actually way impressed with the amount of terrain and high speed quads. It was definitely posh with the skier only attitude but had a huge area to work with.

Doesn't he look thrilled that I am taking his picture

On the way back out at lunch, notice blinding sun

Ok, that's all for now, you may look forward to my post on the half marathon. You may all wait with baited breath(is that right?)

We are moving to Arizona

2011-04-20T19:07:00.000-07:00

After months of waiting that included drama, frustration, and a stint on the alternate list I, Andrew, have been accepted to PA school at the Arizona School of Health Sciences in Mesa. The program starts June 13th and we will be moving very soon.

Henry is 2

2011-04-17T13:26:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Henry!!!!

(He looks so happy to be wearing the hat)

What happens in Vegas....

2011-03-27T22:16:00.000-07:00

For Michelle's bachelorette party we took a little trip down south to Las Vegas! Michelle had never been so we thought this was a good a time as any to go to sin city. We of course took a trip down the strip and rode the ny ny roller coaster, saw the Bellagio fountains and watched the intellectually stimulating show at treasure island...

As we were walking around, people kept inviting us to go to their clubs for free so we got all dolled up and found Michelle the most scandalous dress we could for one last go. This is our "sexy" face..

It was quite the adventure getting ready because most of us don't exactly have "club clothes" so we all ended up mixing and matching clothes till.....taaaadaaaa-the finished product!

We got into the VIP areas at the club at Caesar's palace where we made sure and drink plenty of $14 waters at no cost to ourselves.

We laid out for a couple of hours and the temperature could not have been more perfect. I of course, got fried because I have never heard of sunscreen.

What would a trip to Vegas be without a trip to cheesecake factory in Caesar's palace. The real reason we went to Vegas was shopping. We spent a significant amount of time in H&M, both of them, just in case. We also wanted to go to the outlets and spent a significant amount of time looking for the "special ones" on the south end of the strip. Just in case you are wondering, the outlets at the end of the strip suck, and there are none any further south. I know, we checked. But it was very entertaining to have 5 girls arguing over where the outlets were. We actually found the ones we were looking for. It was actually a mall, not an outlet, and it was literally 1 block from our hotel, 3 hours later. But it was a great adventure.

On a side note, we had a king size bed that us three ladies shared. Note to self, michelle and cassi are not allowed to sleep with each other. Something about a sheep blanket.... baaaa-aaaa-aa

After a long day of shopping, we decided to go to a show....a very entertaining show. We had a blast and saw a lot of muscles and not a lot of hair...hmmm weird. I don't think I have ever screamed or laughed so hard in my entire life. Definitely one of the highlights of the trip.

-Had a blast with my sisters and new sisters in law. I highly recommend and can't wait for our next trip....maybe a cruise?

MIchelle's Bridal shower

2011-03-16T22:08:00.000-07:00

Missy Moo is getting married! The youngest of the 4 sisters, the baby, is getting married. We threw her a little shower at Cassi's house and it was a blast.

Chloe was the life of the party. She was so cute. "it's a party" and "let's dance" was how she kept all the guest entertained. We had a video of Michelle's fiance Austin answering questions and played the newlywed game. Michelle got about 50% of the questions right which was better than I thought. And Austin was a great sport.

We had some delicious food. Cassi got some of these delicious sugar cookies and Chloe dove in face first.

We played a toilet paper wedding dress game to see who could make the best wedding dress out of TP

and the results.....

you will see this on the runway this spring

We all had a blast and ate some very delicious desserts. What more could you ask for? Happy wedding Shelly!

Visit to Vermot

2011-02-09T23:30:00.000-08:00

In January, Andrew and I went out to visit my brother and his wife with their new twins. They were adorable and we got to do some sight seeing as well.

We went to a Dartmouth hockey game with Chase and Nate. Chase loved the music and would dance between the plays.

We went up to the Vonn Trapp family lodge and had lunch, it was actually pretty good, I had some sandwich with apples and mustard and of course some Jones creme soda. I was beautiful up there with a great view.

We also went and toured the Ben and Jerry factory, a must if you are in the area. Who knew they use 5 tons of chocolate when making their ice cream.

We of course stopped at a covered bride and has some fresh apple cider-the kind from a real cider press- and some cider donuts. The donuts were not as good as I had hoped.

But the real sight was these two adorable kidlets; Drew and Reid. These little guys are going to be little heart breakers.

And this little guy. Need I say more. He was so much fun. He is still working on talking and so I was know as Dit and Andrew was annundew. Andrew and Chase played a lot of trains, I don't know who had more fun, Chase or Andrew.

It was a great trip and we loved to see Nate and Di and the nephews. Di even taught me how to make bread. I have made it a few times and it is delicious, Andrew loves it. Thanks for letting us stay and for feeding us. We can't wait to see you in March for Michelle's Wedding. Yeah!

Sisters

2011-01-30T20:24:00.000-08:00

It is a rare occasion to have all my sisters in one state, all at the same time. My oldest sister Angie came into town for a few days for Rykers surgery. I was supposed to fly out the day after she arrived but as luck would have it, my flight was canceled for a day and I got to spend an extra day with my loved sisters. We all went out to sushi at Ginza and it was soooo delicious.

I love my sisters and I am glad we were all together for a while.

Oh Henry-and his nemesis the vacuum

2011-01-25T11:56:00.000-08:00

Henry is afraid of the vacuum, very afraid. This, however, is the first time he had done this. He did it the first time and we laughed in disbelief for 5 min. I knew you wouldn't believe me so we tried it again, but with the video camera.

Happy Anniversary

2011-01-08T18:51:00.000-08:00

Happy four year anniversary! We went skiing this year for anniversary but it didn't turn out exactly as we planned. I have been sick for 1 week and its just hanging on. I also got new skis and boots and this was my first time using them. It didn't go so well, I am not used to them yet and my calves were on fire, I had snot running down my face and it was blowing snow sideways. I made it three runs before I gave up the ghost. Maybe not the most romantic anniversary ever but at least I got to spend it with Andrew! I would also like to note my sweet new helmet and goggles, merry Christmas!

This is what we had to drive home in, put the 4X4 to good use. Worked like a champ.

I love you babe, happy 4 years!

Christmas time

2011-01-01T23:30:00.000-08:00

Every year we have our traditions that make Christmas time Christmas. Like the famous cookie day. My sister Cassi started this tradition a few years ago where we take turns making aprons. Well, it was my turn this year and let me tell you, it was not easy. I had 7 aprons to make and of course I picked the reversible pattern so I really had to make 14 aprons. I spent 4 full days at my mom's house and by the time I was done, I never wanted to touch a sewing machine again. Don't worry, I have since recovered but I don't recommend making 14 aprons in 7 days. They turned out really great thanks to the help from my mom and they were a hit with the sisters.

Chloe has a hard time keeping her clothes on but she still looked ridiculously cute in the apron I made for her.

Chole and I just warmin' up by the fire.

I was so much fun and we made lots of goodies including:white chocolate macadamia nut cookies, fudge, carmels, chocolate peppermint cookies and sugar cookies. Really, I will be running off all the sugar for months.

We also went to see the lights at temple square, there were a bajillion people there but the lights were worth it.

Don't worry, I have not recently had a child, its my cute nephew Ryker.

My dad brought a flashlight for Chloe, she thought it was so fun to look in all our mouths. Oh the things you can find in mouths.

We had our Christmas on Christmas eve this year because I worked on Christmas day. My favorite part about Christmas is tricking Andrew and not letting him guess his presents. I usually wrap them in unusually large boxes or put necklaces in so when he shakes them he doesn't know what they are. This year, I told him his present was so big I needed his car to bring it home. I got an Ipod adapter installed so he could play his iphone in his car though his stereo. He was so surprised and he didn't even guess it this year. I also got him some Birkenstock shoes(its an Oregon thing) and a razor to shave his face. Do you think he will get the hint? I was lucky enough to get a ski helmet and goggles and a fleece that I have been drooling over since last year. I have been skiing without a helmet for years and I get a bunch of flack from the people at work. I see people in the er all the time who get injured and are not wearing a helmet. So I finally took the plunge and decided to be responsible. I must say I look really cool in my new get-up, I can't wait to try it out.

On a side note, we of course always get a real tree. This year half of the tree died and we could not figure out why until we were taking it down. Andrew was putting away the tree skirt when he smelled it. It smelled like dog pee. Guess who had been peeing on the tree...but only half because the other half he couldn't get to. Not only that but we caught him multiple times drinking out of the tree water. Why? you ask. I don't know, his water bowl was nice and full.

Each Christmas Eve, we go snowshoeing/hiking up millcreek canyon. It was as beautiful as ever and of course Henry had the time of his life.

Trying to wrangle Henry for a family picture...

Aren't they cute!

Alright, I have been working on this post for about a week now, a little here and there. I guess I will let you folks have a read now.

Steph Ward RN

2010-12-03T22:52:00.000-08:00

So I posted a while ago about how I graduated nursing school, well, not only did I graduate but I also passed NCLEX but for some reason I did not feel like a real nurse until I got my badge. Here it is in all it's glory. I work in the ER and absolutely love it. I work with some of the most amazing people and never have a dull moment. I actually enjoy going to work. You know you are in the right field when that happens. I was on orientation for 3 months and have been on my own now for a few weeks. It's still weird to think that I am the "real deal" now. I have had some......very interesting patients, like for instance this week I had one who smoked bath salts. Ya, you read that right, bath salts. Apparently, it's the new thing but I wouldn't recommend. Anywho, moving on, I will try to update more here soon.

2010-10-31T19:02:00.001-07:00

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Witches night out at Gardner Village

2010-10-27T12:59:00.000-07:00

My friend April invited me to go to witches night out at garner village with her. I was excited because it was an excuse to dress up-and really, I will take any excuse I can get. We all made our costumes and I think they turned out great!

We actually didn't plan our stripped tights but they looked great.

This people were walking around and we just loved their costumes!

We had so much fun, we got hot chocolate and carmel apples and walked around to all the shops with all the other witches- so fun I would highly recommend next year.

Autumn

2010-10-27T12:44:00.000-07:00

Took a little drive the other day in the new car to check out the leaves. It was beautiful and we took the car on a little off roading, just to test it out of course.

The colors were great and it was nice to be able to spend some time with Andrew.

A little Martha anyone?

2010-10-10T15:02:00.000-07:00

I have been a little Martha this week thanks to the help of my awesome neighbor Alicia. She is a huge canner and helped me can some peaches. I kept having to run upstairs to make sure I was doing it right but I was successful in the end!

I also ventured into the unknown land of real jam.(I only do freezer jam, and even then only once) Also with the help of Alicia-It's so nice to have such a talented neighbor!

Our next crafty session included a wood halloween project which we decorated all by ourselves and a wreath which turned out very cute.

I know, you are all very impressed- you should be because I am not a crafty person at all but I have had a lot of free time and a neighbor willing to put up with me. I like this whole no school thing.

The end of an era

2010-09-12T21:33:00.000-07:00

The beginning of August I finished nursing school and graduated with my second degree, a bachelor's in Nursing. YEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAA! I feel like I have been in school FOREVER. I swear if I ever think that I am going to return to school, someone slap me. I am so done with school. Now I can have a real job making some actual money. Here are some pictures of my peeps from the back row.

The four musketeers

We had a party to celebrate our graduation and most everyone(except me) wash smashed drunk and hugely entertaining.

Me and Lisa

Meradity and Katie

We had a small bonfire to burn all nursing books, this would be me wiping my bum with some maternity nursing.

The Norwegian Barb in the middle who was very entertaining

Good times with good people, sad but exciting. I don't want to be grown up but now since I have a career, I automatically fall into that category. I am still working that out. I feel like I have been working toward something all these years and now I am here, now what. Don't worry I am just having a mid 20's crisis, I will work it out. I am so excited to start a new era in my life but at the same time I am sad that one is over. I had an awesome nursing school class who helped me get through it and I love them for it. I couldn't ask for better friends.

Bear Lake

2010-09-12T20:16:00.000-07:00

So, I realize I have some catching up to do and a lot has happened in the last few months so I will start off in late July where we made a trip to my friend Cassi's cabin in bear lake. We just went up for the week end but we had so much fun and it was really relaxing. We took Henry up and he played so hard he had to recover for 2 days.

We went to la beau's to eat which is a bear lake must. It just happened to be raspberry days that weekend so of course we had to get the awesome raspberry shakes, and they were totally worth it. In fact we had to stop and get another one on our way home.

That night we went to the raspberry days rodeo, it was my friend Don's first time and it was great. We saw bull riding, barrel racing and my personal favorite mutton busting.

You always see....interesting people at the rodeo and this fine specimen is what we sat next to. We snuck a picture with the Don's iphone because we couldn't get over this chick.

Andrew even tried to get in the rodeo mood. Notice his hat that he obtained from a friends dad who got it free at a rodeo in Wyoming.

We all went swimming and it was a little nippy but the water was so beautiful and Henry of course had the time of his life. It was nice to come to bear lake and not have to do a triathlon. Last year we did the bear lake brawl and it was great and all but this trip was much more relaxing. Andrew also brought up some guns and the boys got to shoot stuff. I brought up my little gun and shot it. It is about the size of a small water gun and totally awesome. I don't have the pictures of our shooting extravaganza but I will try to get them.

It is so beautiful up there! Thanks Cass for letting us come up to your cabin and have so much fun.

Saints to Sinners

2010-08-16T10:28:00.000-07:00

At the end of July we rode this relay race from Salt Lake to Vegas. It was so fun and exhausting at the same time. Ten of my good friends took turns riding for over 500 miles. It took us 30 hours total to get to Vegas.

Loading up the bikes-we had to fit 10 bikes, ten people and all our crap in two cars. It was quite the feat.

Me and the hubby before we left

Andrew at the start line

The other car, my name wasn't on it so I put it there

Trevor's real Dior glasses he obtained in Italy. I'm not sure, but I think they might be girl glasses.

Andrew would ride with me on my rides and it was so fun. On my night ride it was 8 miles of climbing in the mountains. It was pitch dark and silent with just the sound of my lungs gasping for air. It was so fun to be riding in the dark with Andrew and he was so supportive.

my excitement for my last ride

Andrew trying to sleep. We had a few hours before we had to ride again so we stopped at a church to sleep. It was 3am and we were all sound asleep on the grass when the sprinklers turned on. I started screaming and I have never seen 5 people move so fast. It wasn't quite the wake up we were expecting.

Andrew finishing his ride

It was a great time with great people. It was bloody hot and I had some awesome tan lines to prove it but well worth it. We spent the night in vegas swimming, eating and sleeping which was well deserved by all.

people, please!

2010-08-06T21:17:00.000-07:00

Triage in the ER can be an.....interesting task. Here is a conversation that took place while in the ER.
Nurse: What are we seeing you for today?
Patient: I have a sunburn on my face.
Nurse: Uh-huh.....
Patient: I have been putting my monastat cream(yeast infection cream) on to keep it moisturized.
Nurse: Why have you been putting on yeast infection cream on a sunburn.
Patient: because the box said it was for itching and burning.
Nurse: (dumb founded look followed by a head shake and a lot of typing)

I also went to the jail a couple of weeks ago on a tour(or at least that's what I am telling people) and we walked into one of the cell blocks. The jail warden made an announcement, "If I hear any cat calls or whistling, you are all on lock down for the rest of the night." This was followed by a short pause and a whistle from an inmate. I almost lost it. I love the lack of impulse control. The warden then told them all to thank the whistler because now they wouldn't be out of their cells till tomorrow afternoon.
He he.

I love dumb people

4th of July!

2010-07-16T17:57:00.000-07:00

We spent the fourth of July in Kaysville with my family and it was very relaxing. We started off by going to the water parade, which is always entertaining, followed by star trek, lounging and fireworks. It was a much needed break from the demon in my life called nursing school.

We tried to do fireworks with Chloe but she kept trying to blow them out-kind of defeats the purpose of fireworks.

Dog lake

2010-07-16T14:30:00.000-07:00

We went hiking up millcreek to dog lake last weekend. The last time we tried to go up there, Andrew was on call and had to go into work. So poor Henry got 3/4 of the way there and we had to turn around. This time we made it the whole way up and back with no major incidents.

These are my poor feet after the first 6 mile hike in my chacos. 5 blisters and counting.

My adorable niece

2010-06-29T19:42:00.000-07:00

Here's Chloe! Isn't she so cute! I think so-she is quite the little ham to the camera. Cheese!

Pink is my favorite color...

2010-06-29T19:36:00.001-07:00

These are my new pink water bottle holders that match my pink pedals! Its ok, you can be jealous. Andrew was so sweet and bought them for me when he went to get his bike fixed. I sure love him! Now, if I could just not suck at riding....

More Henry

2010-06-10T11:48:00.001-07:00

Cutest dog ever. ever.

2010-06-07T13:30:00.000-07:00

This is Henry. He had a very eventful day at the park playing in the water. Henry LOVES the water. I think we plumb tuckered him out, wouldn't you say.

Ode to the dishwasher

2010-05-25T18:15:00.001-07:00

This is our new dishwasher given to us generously by our new upstairs neighbors. Thanks Alisha and Geoff- you da bomb! This is our first dishwasher. We have been married for 3 1/2 years and have never had one. How I have missed you dear dishwasher. I had tried to convince myself that washing dishes by hand and rinsing them for the dishwasher took about the same time. Not true. Not even a little. This dishwasher is neat, it rolls over to the sink, you hook it up to the faucet, and let it run. Then when its all finished you roll it back to the corner and your all done. How neat! Dishwasher-I have missed you so much. Welcome back to the family.

Century 2010

2010-05-25T17:53:00.000-07:00

Andrew, me and some friends rode the Salt Lake city century a week ago. I had been dreading it somewhat because we have not been able to ride. Not due to lack of ambition, but instead due to the snowy weather. Snow you say? In mid May? Yes. Not once, not twice, but on multiple occasions has it snowed. In fact yesterday, the 24th of May it snowed. But that is beside the point. So we pretty much rode this ride fresh out of winter. It ended up being pretty fun. Don't get to excited. I actually only rode 75 miles instead of the full 100 but I still feel very accomplished. I like to bike, but especially on flat or downhills as Andrew will tell you. We rode and got lunch at half time and turn around and came back. If you don't know how far 75 miles is- we started at the fairgrounds and turned around in Syracuse and came back. I wore my heart rate monitor and burned 2757 calories. Don't pretend you're not impressed. My Dad even came out to support me- I feel so loved. Anywho- here are some pictures as proof of my ride. Thanks to my awesome husband who even though he is a significantly better rider than I, stayed with me the whole time as my own personal cheering section. I sure do love him.

After the race

Megan and Don-our riding buddies

This was the halfway mark

Check out the glasses, yes they are gargoyles, given to us by my dad, and yes they are bulletproof. Literally.

Yeah, I finished!

My very cute, supportive hubby

PS. I am supposed to be doing stupid nursing school homework but instead I am posting. stickin' it to the man.

Gradumatation

2010-05-19T08:11:00.000-07:00

Nursing school graduation. Somewhat bittersweet. I am, in fact, not acutually finished yet but we don't have our own graduation so we walk early. This graduation was much more fun than my first one. One, because I got to walk with my very bestest friend, my husband. How many people get to do that. I am so very proud of him for graduating. He now gets to play the game of applying to PA school. (I'm glad that I don't have to do that). Second, because I got to graduate with my very good friends that I have made in nursing school. Hola to my peeps in the back row(You know who you are). Back row foeva. Anyway, here are some pics for your viewing pleasure.

13.1

2010-04-23T11:26:00.000-07:00

I ran 13.1 miles in the half marathon on saturday. Why? you ask. I have no idea. A friend of mine talked me into it and it seemed like a good idea at the time. I actually had a lot of fun and had a lot more energy than I thought I would. The competitiveness came out in me and I felt like I just had to keep running because everyone else was. And there were all the people on the course cheering you on so you just have to keep running for them. I do believe now though, if I can be a runner, anyone can. I don't think anyone hates running as much as I. Don't get me wrong, I still hate running, I just hate it less. I am going to do another half at the end of the summer and I hope to beat my time. Special shout out to Alicia for talking me into doing this(and no I'm not doing the marathon with you), my awesome hubby who is my own personal cheerleader, my parents and Lisa for coming to support me. You all rock! And Lisa, your in for the next half!

The home stretch, I had a little spurt of energy when I saw the finish line

Andrew gave us oranges and they were amazing

Before I knew what I was getting into

Happy birthday

2010-04-14T19:56:00.000-07:00

It's Henry's 1st birthday and Andrew got him a big cupcake to celebrate. We are so glad we got him! We love him and he is soooo entertaining! He got a chuck it(ball thrower) for his birthday and he couldn't be happier. Happy Birthday Henry!

Peru

2010-04-07T11:02:00.000-07:00

10 days of pure fun! That is what Peru is. It is the most beautiful country and one of my favorites. We spent ten days there and didn't even touch the surface of things to do. In fact, we only stayed in the southern end of the country. We started in Cusco and then went into the sacred valley which is beautiful countryside. In the sacred valley, we visited Chincenero, Ollyantatambo, Urambamba and Pisac. Ollyantatambo is fortress in which we had to climb up 220 stairs to get to the top, at elevation it was not the easiest task. I whined but somehow the incas got 3 ton stones up the mountains. We then went back to Cusco were we visited sachsawoman(sexywoman) which is this fortress of huge stones. We explored here and found hidden tunnels and cave dwellings. We then went to Moray, which is the circle terraces which they do/did agricultural experiments because each level is at a different temp. This is were Andrew found some guys wallet, who later bought our whole group Inca colas. We then went to Salineras, which are salt mines on the side of a mountain. A salt river flows into the ponds, overflows an into the next. It was amazing the extent of these. Then we went down to lake Titicaca.....yes just like its spelled. Here we visited the floating islands that are made out of reed and the people live on these islands. We went to another island were we stayed with a host family for the night. We got all dressed up in there clothes and had a party. We didn't even have electricity on this island. We got back and went to colca canyon which is one of the deepest canyons and saw the condors fly. The condors only have one mate for life and if there mate dies, they fly up to extreme elevations to kill themselves. I am not sure how we fit all this into 10 days but we did. We took night buses to get places which was slightly miserable but well worth it. We saw some amazing landscapes and ruins and will someday go back to explore more. Her are pictures....

Grateful

2010-04-07T10:49:00.000-07:00

I really loved Peru and all that it had to offer. I, however, am glad to be an American and live in such a great country. And in honor of that here is my list of things I am grateful for:

Toilet seats
being able to flush toilet paper
toilet paper
toilets inside the house
being able to drink from the faucet
hot water showers
traffic laws
guard rails
knowledge of the defrost setting in cars
sunscreen that actually works(apparently, sunscreen doesn't work over 3000 meters)

This is all I can think of right now. I'm sure there are more. We had a blast in Peru and I am working on posting pictures but there are 1500 of them soooo I'm trying.

Peru

2010-03-09T19:03:00.000-08:00

I am ready. I am ready for my vacation even though it is causing me a considerable amount of stress. I decided to try out my new backpacking pack and my new hiking shoes. It just happened to be dinner time and what better time to try out hiking gear. If you were wondering, yes, I kept this on the entire time I was cooking and yes, they both work awesome. School is stressing me out this week. The list of the things I need to do before I leave keeps getting larger. Not to mention the fact that Machu Picchu-the highlight of my Peru trip is currently closed due to landslides. I also have not booked any hotels due to this. I am a planner(thanks dad) and this is KILLING me. But I am going to let it go and "fly by the seat of my pants"- yes just let it go... I am running out of time to do all the things that I need to do before the trip but here I am sitting on the couch, blogging. I am avoiding this list. I don't even know where to start. Sigh. 1 week 3 days to go till it doesn't matter.

take off your blindfolds and open your eyes!

2010-02-09T20:46:00.000-08:00

So I have been really wanting a "grown up" room lately. Something that you can go and relax in. I have a really nice bed and nice furniture but I haven't really gone any further than that. I watch those shows on HGTV like trading spaces, clean house, etc. and I love them. So I had a little clean house party of my own and here are the results. We did have to remove a dresser per the retarded layout of the room but it still works. I love my new room! I am really impressed that I put this all together. I am usually not this creative so this was really a leap for me and it turned out awesome! Here are the before and after pictures.

before(I know don't laugh)

After-I love it!
PS. I love Andrew too for helping me! He rocks.

Gross

2010-01-16T20:04:00.001-08:00

So we went on a hike the other day and this is what the salt lake valley looks like....seriously disgusting. Really, we currently have"the worst air quality in the nation." The act of breathing is more a chewing process now and its really grossing me out. I have not been exercising and I have attributed it to the air quality. Yes... the air quality. But I would really like to get out and run and use my snazy new heart rate monitor watch. According to the news, I might as well smoke a pack of cigarettes; um, no thanks. This picture was taken a week ago and it is still like this. Lame.

These are the deer we encountered on the trip. My new little camera did an awesome job of magnifying 12x to get this photo. I love my camera.

In case the first picture didn't do it justice...ewwww.

2010-01-12T20:52:00.000-08:00

Dear pseudoephedrine,
I love you today. I think that you are the greatest drug on the market. My nose and sinuses are clear and the pressure in my inner ear has now equalized. I must ask however, why oh why must people make meth out of you. It is rather inconvenient for me to have to bribe the pharmacist and sign over my first born for for some of your wonderful effects. I love you all the same and thank you again.
Sincerely, a severely congested nursing student on the first day of school
PS. I would also like to throw out a shout out to kleenex-you also rock

The best 3 years

2010-01-05T21:38:00.000-08:00

To my wonderful husband who I love more than anything. To the best 3 years of my life with my best friend. He is more than I deserve and can't believe I am so lucky. He is the best husband I could ask for. I love you very much Andrew Ward, may we have many more adventures together.

We went shoeshoeing to the top of millcreek during the day on our anniversary. We ate cheese and summer sausage at the top and drank hot chocolate. It was so fun! We ended up almost running down the trail because we left late and it was starting to get dark. It was rather fun though and we made it down the canyon in record time.

Then we went to eat at Tuscany's. It was delicious and Andrew looks pretty handsome wouldn't you say.

Christmas Eve Snowshoeing

2009-12-27T18:51:00.000-08:00

Last year Andrew and I started a Christmas eve snowshoeing tradition. Due to my work schedule this year we went a day early but it was super fun none the less. It had just snowed and was still snowing slightly and it was beautiful! We hiked up millcreek canyon, took some hot chocolate and Henry. Henry was of course in heaven and I was pretty happy myself. It was gorgeous and there was hardly anyone up the mountain; it was so peaceful. And the best part of it all--I got to spent it with my two favorite boys in the whole wide world! Best way to spend a Christmas Eve(or the day before)

Our yummy hot chocolate

My boys

cutest picture ever

Henry's paws after the hike--full of snowballs

Finals week

2009-12-20T19:06:00.001-08:00

This is what our living room looked like for about a week. Yes, we have a perfectly good office but for some reason I just wanted to sit out in the living room to study. Finals went well am i am just sooooo glad they are over. I know have 3 1/2 weeks to myself, I think that I will sit and stare at the wall. Yes, that sounds nice and relaxing. And maybe, just maybe I will blog :)

Henry is getting all growed up

2009-11-15T14:54:00.000-08:00

Henry's first snow

On the prowl.

Where's my ball?

Henry and Sammy

Vermont

2009-10-29T20:52:00.001-07:00

Nate and Di were nice enough to let us come visit them over fall break. We had sooo much fun and it was sooo beautiful. We went to a glass blowing place, saw a covered bridge, went to chases first haircut, queche village, Joseph Smith's house, the holy KFC, boston, dartmouth, beckstroms, and so much more all in a week. Thanks Nate and Di for having us! It was a blast.

It was so much fun we were just exhausted!

I Tri'd (get it)

2009-09-20T22:00:00.000-07:00

My first triathlon-aren't you proud!? The Bear Lake Brawl at beautiful bear lake. The final time was 1 hour 54 minutes. 750 meter swim, 12 mile bike and 5K run all under 2 hours! Yeah baby! It was so fun and I am going to do another next year. However, if you would have asked me during the run if I was going to do another one, I would have said h** no and flipped you off--- But now, I can only remember the fun-not the pain(oh the burning calves) I accomplished such a feat with my awesome friends from the ER, they are such a great group of people. The morning started very early about 5am followed closely by my IBS(irritable bowel syndrome) that I get when I am nervous. We proceed to the check in where they mark us with our numbers in permanent markers on our arms and legs. I feel slightly more hard core with these new power markings-is that bad-hhhmm anyway we decided to check out the swim. Out to the bouy and back not bad, even do-able I think. They then procede to inform us that our swim has changed and is not in fact to the buoy and back but around all three buoys. Twice the distance. Nice. That makes me feel awesome. Time to put on the wet suit. I don't know if any of you have ever put on a full body wet suit but its not pretty. squatting, pulling, tugging what more can I say. The saving grace? My pink swim cap. Why you ask? It's pink. It was the source of my power on the swim. The bike went without any catastrophic event other than I almost ate it when I clipped out. The run. PAINFUL. I hate running to begin with so it didn't really stand a chance. But then I finished and it was great and I loved it. So there it is folks. The end.

Triathaletes- hmm I think I like the sound of that

The oh so painful run

Nice bum, where ya from?

the 1920's

2009-09-10T15:50:00.001-07:00

Have you ever wanted to live in the 20's. I have. I want to have that cool wavy hair that they have, the clothes they wear etc. Someone mentioned today that I looked like I should live in the 20's and I agree. This was a girl with really straight hair attempt to do the wavy hair.

river rafting

2009-08-27T12:33:00.000-07:00

River rafting on the weber river....something everyone should try. It is a fairly mellow river and is super fun. Most of the river is flat and pretty difficult to tip over on but don't you worry, yours truly tipped over...twice. I was minding my own business when this huge pilon popped up out of nowhere(as we were going under the bridge) and we ran into it head on and it dumped us. I successfully climbed back into the boat just in time to run into a tree where I had to jump out to avoid getting clothes-lined by the tree. It was all really entertaining and the other boat had a really good show. Andrew couldn't come he was at work; its probably better seeing as he would have been embarrased of my mad skills in the river.(especailly for a girl who has river rafted down cataract canyon multiple times) It was really fun and am going to try again in a few weeks!

My partner in crime for the swim...

1 down 3 to go

2009-08-17T21:50:00.000-07:00

This was my first nursing school clinical group. The first semester is over and I must say that it was a success. There are some awesome people in my class who definitely made it bearable, most of whom are in this picture. This semester was definitely difficult but I am learning a lot. Finals week stretched over 2 weeks and I took a total of 9, yes that's right 9 finals. I have 3 more semesters and then I am finished!

Mirror Lake

2009-08-17T21:32:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend we went camping in the Uintas with some friends. It was beautiful and Henry tried out his swimming legs. He is quite the swimmer but he got really cold when he got out. We had to rap him up in towels and andrews's jacket to keep him warm but he loved it. He is the freaking coolest dog and you should all be jealous of his coolness. We went fishing at teapot lake and I caught a fish skeleton....thats it. I know pathetic but it was really fun. Apparently the fish did not like the pink marshmellow fish bait I had picked out. I made this rockin' dutch oven dinner that you would all be proud of. I actually really like to cook in the dutch ovens. We usually eat better camping then at home, is that wrong? We had raccoons in our camp at night and andrew tagged one of them with a huge rock, I think that it probably has some sort of brain injury now. Henry growled at them but then tried to make friends with them. It was rather entertaining watching the three boys chasing around the raccoons. Overall, a successful camping trip. It is really beautiful up there and I highly recommend it to everyone.

More Henry Pictures

2009-07-12T17:48:00.000-07:00

Henry

2009-07-06T23:37:00.000-07:00

Introducing Henry Ward. He is 10 weeks old and is quite the little shit but we love him. He loves toilet paper, shoes and everything he is not supposed to get into. He loves to play catch and will play all day with you. He can already sit, shake and give high fives. He is very entertaining and routinely runs into things. He is getting bigger everyday.

Like father like son

his favorite chew toy

Andrews hair

He's playing with the other dog...but the other dog knows his every move...

sweet tan man!

2009-05-19T21:21:00.000-07:00

This is what I get for being dumb. We rode 50 miles on Saturday and this is what I endend up with. I look HOT in a swim suit.

Andrew the seamstress

2009-05-19T21:08:00.000-07:00

Andrew was given a long sleeve workout shirt by his dad when we were in Oregon. When I woke up Saturday morning Andrew informed me that he had made a jersey. "When?" I ask. "At about 3am last night," he calmly replies. He then proceeds to tell me how he made it, seeing that he has never sewn before. "I cut off the sleeves and used them to make the pockets in the back but I was too impatient to pin anything on so they are a little crooked. "Then I cut up my jock strap and used the elastic for the sleeves!" He then proceeds to proudly displays his work of art. It looks great! "How did you change the thread color and bobbin?" I ask. "I don't know, I just put it in."(cause its so easy...) I am so blown away by his skills and luck because the jersey looks so great and he even rode it on our bike ride that day. Andrew has continued his mad skills by hemming a bunch of his pants and making them into shorts. I love this man! I would like to add that I did not help him at all on any of these projects. Maybe he should consider a career change.
And this is what our office looked like after he was done.

First Day of School

2009-05-19T20:43:00.000-07:00

Do you remember in elementary school when you were so excited for school to start that you laid your clothes out a week in advance. Thats how I felt and yes I really laid my clothes out to wear a week before school. Here is my uniform and yes that badge does say "Stephanie, Student Nurse"

These are my books...for summer semester only. I spent about $700. I am still recovering and I still have one more to buy. I am sure that all these books are worth what I paid for them.......including the $150 in internet access codes I had to buy. Really! Really.

Swine Flu.....

2009-05-06T22:16:00.000-07:00

This is what I wear to work in the ER so that I don't catch the oh sooooo deadly swine flu. Ok no not really but I had you going. We had a hazmat drill and this is my getup. I know you are jealous but I would like to point out that my outfit costs about 8,000 dollars. Gucci eat your heart out. And on a side note 36,000 people die of the regular flu every year and so far only 2 in the US have died, so if you come into the ER and you have the sniffles, you don't have the swine flu so sit down, your going to be there awhile. I would again like to clarify what an EMERGENCY is. Not breathing, heart attacks(and yes I know if your faking it), uncontrolled bleeding from a missing limb(lacerations don't count) etc. Everyone else get comfortable because its going to be a while. We see an AVERAGE of 250 patients a day so bring it on.

emigration canyon

2009-04-29T22:19:00.000-07:00

We rode up emigration canyon and little mountain on Monday. It was a great ride! I got my new clip pedals and shoes and this was their inaugural ride. It was great! On the way home we hit 33 mph and I almost had an accident in my spandies..

At the top of little mountain with my new clip pedals...and I didn't even fall...yet.

Pro's

2009-04-05T11:34:00.001-07:00

Oh the joy's of living in Utah. It gets warm.....then it snows....then it gets warm...then it snows. Anywho, when it is warm I have been taking my new bike(thanks di) out for spins. We rode 16 miles this day and it felt pretty good. I made Andrew turn around because I was worried about the ride home but it was not as bad as I thought. Poor Andrew, when he rides with me its like a walk in the park and I am huffing and puffing. I still have my training pedals on but I will soon graduate to clip pedals...scary.

4 Eyes

2009-04-05T11:26:00.000-07:00

Apparently, I haven't been to the eye doctor for 5 years and my vision has gotten significantly worse. I am now legally supposed to wear glasses to drive....we shall see. I feel as though they are more of a fashion statement....yes a fashion statement, thats what I will tell myself.

Mustache March

2009-04-05T11:20:00.000-07:00

This is Andrew's awesome mustache that he shaved for mustache march. He kept it for a whole 8 hours before he shaved it off. Come on admit it...it's hot!

Skiing

2009-03-01T18:38:00.000-08:00

I learned to ski! This is a video as proof that I can fumble my way down the mountain on a pair of straight sticks. I got a season pass to snowbird this year and have been boarding a bunch so I thought that I would give skiing a try. Its pretty fun(when your not sliding down the mountain head first). I go with my friend Don from the ER, he is the one who is narrating me "shreadin the nar nar"
These were my skiis....I think they accidentally gave me kids skiis.

Andrew

2009-02-15T20:42:00.001-08:00

Andrew feels really left out of my blog so I will tell you all about is new gun. He loves it very much and carts it around as much as he can(ya know like when he is washing dishes doing laundry etc). These are very dangerous jobs and you can never be too careful. We recently took the conceal carry class so that he will be able to "pack heat" everywhere and he is very excited. He has also recently acquired some new really cool ear muffs you wear when shooting. He has already picked out his next gun and spends hours on the computer lookin at it. I love him very much and am sorry that I have neglected to mention him in my blog; even though he won't blog himself....just sayin.

Oh how I love my silver pants

2009-02-15T20:30:00.000-08:00

So I found these pictures of my silver pants from my halloween costume and I thought I should share them with you so you could enjoy them as much as I . Everyone should have at least one pair of hot silver pants.
Nice bum where ya from?

"She's a maniac..maniac on the floor. And she dances like she's never danced before."

good morning SLC

2009-02-15T06:28:00.000-08:00

Lets just get something real clear here. I am not, nor will ever be a morning person. Once every other week I have to work at 6 am. Usually, I work at noon which means I roll out of bed around 11ish. (I know..so tough right) So needless to say 6am is a tad early for me. This was the view outside of the ER this morning. Just imagine lifeflight taking off into the sunrise(I wasn't quick enough with the camera) This will never get old to me. Our helicopter pad is about 100 ft from the ambulance doors(to left of pic) which makes the landing and taking off really cool. And the mountains and sky are lookin pretty awesome this morning too. I know I'm a geek but it's a good way to start a day. Oh ya and I have a few more posts for you coming shortly.

worry wart

2009-01-29T20:09:00.000-08:00

2009-01-29T19:12:00.000-08:00

I have been putting this off because I never know what to write. I read everyone else's blog daily and I love it, so here it goes. I have sucessfully turned in my nursing applications and will find out in April if I get in and I am having a little anxiety about it. I am trying not to but I can't help myself. My whole life depends on this stupid decision that in my experience is made by stupid people. On top of that, I have this fear that I forgot to do something or I did something wrong so they will throw my application out. For instance, my fears became a reality in the shower this morning when I realized that I had fogotten to put my internship on my resume. This may or may not be a big deal but I spent so much time messing with the stupid "templete" that I forgot to add it to my resume. Also, we also have a nursing student who was telling me how one of her recommendations was filled out wrong so she had to wait a year and reapply(because of someone else's mistake). Its these little things that are killing me. I have a fear of the unknown. I don't like leaving my life changing decisions to other people, is that so wrong? I didn't have this anxiety last year when I applied but I also secretly didn't want to get in(I needed a break). I am ready now so please, someone let me into nursing school(preferably the U, I REALLY REALLY don't want to drive to Ogden everyday). Thank you. Oh and if you tell me not to worry I am a shoe in, I know that already I just can't help myself. That is the end of my shpeil(sp?) thank you for reading.

On the first day of christmas

2008-12-08T21:43:00.000-08:00

Here is my REAL Christmas tree. I had never had a real Christmas tree till I married Andrew and he was absolutely appalled that I had never had a real tree. He is from Oregon and has never had anything but a real Christmas tree. So we went to the christmas tree lot and picked one out. This one called out to me. We tied it onto the top of our car(luckily we have a rack) and brought it home. I love it, it smells great, and misses me when I go to work. Not only that, it has 1000 lights on it. Yes, thats right 1000. I know, you are all jealous. I love Christmas.

UTES!

2008-12-02T22:41:00.000-08:00

As most of you know I am a die hard Ute football fan. Since I graduated I have not been able to get football tickets. However, the BYU-Utah game was a different story. We camped out and waited in line all night to get standing room only tickets at the top of the stadium. I then had to sneak in the stadium, pretending I was a student. It makes the noses bleed section look like prime real estate. It was sooo worth it though. I would like to throw out a thanks to Max Hall(BYU quarterback) for helping us win the game with all the interceptions he threw. I would also like to nominate him for MVP of the game for the 5 interceptions he threw. It was a lot of fun and I am glad that I forced andrew to give me his student ticket. : ) Thanks to April who camped out while I was working till 3am.

The BYU cougar hanging from the pole in a nuse.
No one even waited till the end of the game to rush the field. Ya. It was that good. 48-24

2008-12-01T21:32:00.000-08:00

Andrew and I have moved into Nate's basement but before we did we had to do some much needed painting. The whole living room/kitchen was in this awesome wood paneling....as much as I love wood paneling, it had to go. This was my first experience painting and I have to say that it kinda sucks. Its not just like you can just paint a wall. No, you have to first paint primer a couple of times and then the actual paint a couple of times. So you end up painting the same thing like 5 times. However once it was done it looks really good. I am so excited for nate and di to come see it and tell me how awesome I am. Anywho, check out the pics.

Before we painted....
After we painted....it looks so much better
added some lights and decorated!

Happy Halloween

2008-11-09T21:40:00.001-08:00

this is how we do halloween in the ER....

No comment necessary.

Gauze anyone?(Its an ER...we have a plethora)

My killer costume...I know you're jealous of my silver pants.

So I have been getting crap from Cassi for not updating my blogg but I had a serious Iphone malfunction and all my pictures are on it. The top half of my screen stopped working. The things at the top of my screen are such things as my calender, text, and photos. This may be all and well besides the fact that my phone is hacked so I can't just take it into the apple store to get it fixed(they look down on the hackers) I have to unhack it and play dumb then rehack the new phone. So needless to say...it's a process. So I am sorry for my "lameness" and will try to be better.

The "dudes"

2008-10-05T14:30:00.000-07:00

After LOTOJA we went and stayed with our friend Jane in Star Valley. She has horses and was nice enough to take us out and let us ride them. They are so fun and we had a blast. Andrews horse kept trying to eat along the way and Andrew couldn't stop him. Jane called us dudes but I still had fun. Thanks Jane! Jane's mom cooked for us a delightful meal with the most amazing potatoes that I have ever had. I snuck some out of the fridge later that day and they were awesome. mmmm potatoes.

LOTOJA

2008-10-05T14:26:00.000-07:00

Here is Andrew's race pictures. I know a little late... Anywho he did amazing! 208 miles of pure fun...just ask him. I am so proud of him because I could never do that and I think he is crazy but he did and he is awesome! So go ANDREW!

Spelling Bee

2008-09-26T21:42:00.000-07:00

I went to my girlfriends baby shower the other day and this was her cake. The kicker is she had two cakes both of which were spelled the same. REALLY! REALLY!

Mr. Kangaroo

2008-09-26T21:22:00.000-07:00

Alright, I know that I need to blog about Andrew's race and a few other things but I am at work and I don't have the pictures so I will blog about other things. How many people get to hold a baby kangaroo? Well I did and it was quite possibly the cutest thing that I have ever seen. It was really soft and really cuddly. It even hopped around and was really cute. This one is actually used as a therapy pet in a nursing home and was just visiting the ER for a few hours. I know you are all turning green with envy.
She even wears a little diaper!
And she likes to eat my hair.

Boating

2008-09-12T01:07:00.000-07:00

So I am a little behind on my blogging, sorry. I will start with our boating trip to Jordanelle with April and Brandon. It was really fun...just ask Andrew. He loves boating. I, however, had tons of fun and have posted some lovely pictures for you lovely folks. I was a little sore the next day but it was worth it.

Sticky Fingers

2008-08-31T09:45:00.000-07:00

I love my job. People are always coming up with new and interesting ways to entertain me. A recent visitor to the ER was discharged. She decided that she didn't want to carry her backpack around so she hid it under a car in the parking lot. She later returned for it and could not find it. She was frantic and called security and they were helping her look for it. Well, security found it first and opened it up to find 2 full bags of hospital supplies that she had stolen. Ya Ya everyone steals from the hospital; it is a daily occurace. However the supplies that she stole made me laugh for about 45 minutes. I am not sure what you are going to use these for but here is a picture of the most interesting things. I have included a list of the stolen items for your reading pleasure and I will leave it up to your imagination what she is going to do with these things.(most of these useless outside of the hospital)
Catheter kit
EKG pads
blood culture bottles(have live bacteria in them and smell like rotten eggs if accidentally broken)
blood tubes
Christmas tree(for the oxygen, hooks canula to wall O2
roll of tube gauze
blood arm band(used to identify pt recieving blood)
IV connector
Bottle of saline
stinky smell spray
label maker refill(makes sticker copy of wristband)
mouth swab
Hibacleanse(soap)
assorted first aid supplies(not shown)
She was arrested and taken to jail on 2 prior warrants for theft. I sure want to know where I can find a black market cath kit.

Havasupai Flood!

2008-08-23T22:35:00.000-07:00

Before the flood...

and after the flood!

My favorite place in Havasupai was flooded and everyone had to be evacuated by helicopter. I am sad but am really glad that I got to go there before it flooded. It is such a beautiful place; we were planning on returning next summer but I don't know if that will be possible now. : (

why we should ban smoking

2008-08-14T09:27:00.000-07:00

Working in the ER I have the blessed opportunity to see and meet all the....colorful...people of the world. My most recent experience was a fellow who was drunk enough to kill me three or four times over. This is the first problem. My little friend now gets me to babysit him because he is so drunk. He can't stand up without stumbling and has a black eye, previous stitches, many lacs so on and so forth. Lets just say that this isn't this guys first rodeo. About every 5 minutes this guy wants to go smoke a cigarrette and the fact that he can't walk is only one of many factors of why we won't let him, death is real high up there too. He also doesn't seem to remember 5 min ago when i told him no. After about an hour an a half of this he gets up and goes into the corner. Being that its happened more than once I think that he is peeing on the floor. So I go in there and he is not peeing but he is unrolling the cigarretes in his pocket and has a handful of tobacco in his hand. "What are you going to do with that I ask?" "I am gonna chew it!" Has it really come to this point that if you are not allowed to smoke for and hour you are going to put the cigarrete with all the toxins into your mouth. This seems like a good idea. And does that even work!!!! I slapped his hand and all the carcinogenic tobacco fell to the floor and our 5min routine began again. All though this is bad it doesn't compare to the guy at LDS who was in a C-collar, on a backboard(strapped down), with oxygen and a nasal cannula who lit up inside the emergency room because he needed his hit. Maybe we need to get the word out that OXYGEN IS FLAMMIBLE! And many have tried and burned their faces off because of this addiction. It is a sad but true fact that it has come to this point. This is why we should ban smoking, for my sanity.

the wedding

2008-08-11T21:58:00.000-07:00

the start of us.

Havasupai Falls

2008-08-11T19:55:00.001-07:00

Yellowstone

2008-08-11T19:33:00.000-07:00

Andrew's bike race!

2008-08-10T19:53:00.000-07:00

Ow ow! Look at those sexy shorts. So ya its been a while sorry but i am really going to keep up on this now. So here is the skinny. Here is Andrews first road bike race. It was the Tour de Park City; a 106 mile bike race. Me being the good wife that I am(and not knowing how long it was going to take) stayed the whole time. I figured hey, I will go to the feed stations ahead of him and take his picture. I know how kind. Anywho, that didn't turn out as well as I thought. I drove along the same route as the bikers because they didn't close any of the roads but I really felt out of place being the only car on the road and all. I then proceeded to miss the turn off and get lost for the next hour. Awesome so I missed the first feed station. By the time i figured out where the hell I was it had been about 31/2 hours. I would just go and eat and go to the finish line and wait. That should be long enough right....wrong. So I am sitting at the end and no one is coming....ya. I give a call to my loving brother and he tells me it takes about 6-7 hours so I'm a little early. I will go wait at the last feed station. So i go and chat it up with the old folks manning the apples and goo. 4 hours later...nothing...no Andrew.....I am a little worried at this point that he might have died somewhere. I give him a little ring a ding ding and he answered. I am almost there he said..5 miles. 4o min later i get a phone call..."I'm at the finish line." How did you get past me! Turns out he was following the racers who had a different route and bypassed me all together. So this is the only picture that I have of his race. Yaaa! Go me!

tour

2008-07-08T19:42:00.001-07:00

We are losing our blogging virginity....be gentle.

2008-02-13T20:05:00.000-08:00

We're going to give this a try. We are both students at the U. Steph graduates this spring and has applied to nursing school and hopefully starts this summer. I graduate sometime in the distant future. Along with school Steph and I both work for Intermountain Healthcare. Steph spends most of her time working in the ER where she sticks people with needles and watches homeless men pee on the floor. I work in Same Day Surgery during the week. We both work in the OR at different hospitals where we deal in blood and guts. Steph likes to travel A LOT. She snowboards and loves sushi. I enjoy soccer, snowshoeing, biking, and most things outdoors. We rarely have time for any of these things. You might hear more from us and you might not. Time will tell.