The Ogden's

Progress

2012-01-18T10:55:00.000-08:00

I came across some really cute furniture on craigslist, and lucky for me, I had Christmas money to spend on something fun! The lady had an entire dresser set; long dresser & mirror, nightstand (I'm bummed she only had one, but I will just get another non-matching vintage style nightstand and paint it antique white) and an upright dresser. All for a really good deal! They are vintage style and they would be so cute in a little girls room. But we don't have a little girl and we didn't have any furniture in our master, so thats where it ended up at. Because I "decorate on a shoe-string" budget, so I have to patient and wait to do everything else to this room. But, its progress and I love it!!

Found this duvet at TJ Max for $30! I love it. I don't have a down comforter to go inside it, but someday haha

Plans for this room:

Paint
Wall art (pictures, etc.)
Curtains
Rug
Additional night-stand
and a cute neutral chair
Different throw pillows
LAMPS!
Down comforter haha

Memory Boxes

2012-01-18T10:27:00.000-08:00

For Christmas this year, my family decided to do home-made gifts. My Dad out did himself! He handmade these memory boxes for us. They are all different and they are all made out of different types of exotic woods. Also, its hard to explain on here, but all of the strips and wood leaves are in-layed, the cut had to be exact to make that work. He went out in the yard and found leaves that he liked and then went back to his wood-shop and did his magic to turn them into this. Some of the boxes have darker leaves, he actually burned the wood to make them appear darker in some areas. There was no stain used on any of the boxes, just teak oil to make them shine. Devin's box doesn't have a leaf. My Dad thought that the grain of wood looked like the universe or galaxy. Devin loves the design. He spent a countless amount of hours on them and was so excited to give them to us. We were excited to see what he had made.

What a surprise it was to open this beautiful, hand-crafted gift.
The boxes are absolutely beautiful! A keep-sake we will always treasure. (Oh Cody has one too, waiting for him when he gets home)
Thank You Dad for all of your hard work and thoughtfulness!

Decorating on a Shoe-String

2012-01-05T15:33:00.000-08:00

It's no secret that I LOVE COLOR in our home! Growing up my mother loved to decorate and she did it well! Decorating is my hobby, the thing I never get tired of. The thing I love about it, is that you can always change it and then change it again. I love change.

We are both going to school and I am no longer working, so I can put all my focus on school. Decorating is kind of an expensive hobby. There is only so much you can do on a shoe-string budget.

Over the years, I have heard this term from my mother several times: "Decorating on a Shoe-String."

Now I really know the meaning of it. It is fun to work with what you have; paint it, stain it, re-upholister it. Search high and low for a piece that you want, and make it just the way YOU want it with some TLC.

Devin always tells me that if you want something, you will get it if you are patient and keep you ears open. Its TRUE! I wanted a up-right piano, and I waited for several months with open ears and I got it for FREE (even better). I wanted a guest bed, vintage style. And I found one at a yard sale for $5! Also, I have needed a mattress for that bed since September. And my Mom's boss said he a newly purchased full mattress that he didn't need any longer! Being patient pays off.

All of these pictures are from PINTEREST! But I love these.

The collage of frames on the wall.

The tub!! To die for! And the cheery atmosphere.

The color combo is awesome

This room is just amazing all around!

Lighting, colors, frames, drapes on either side of the bed. Love.

Cheery nook. Love the wall color.

Devin laughs at me because sometimes I will say "our family room just went up a level." But our house started out looking like a freshman's dorm; and I just keep finding more things and re-doing old things and sometimes (not very often) it goes up a "level" in my book. It is hard to be patient waiting for it to be able to go up a "level." Decorating is fun because it is all about what you want. I don't worry about what people will think when they walk in and see our VERY BRIGHT piano or a dresser as our entry table currently. But, it makes us happy and thats all that matters.

At the start of this year, I made a list. I made categories by room (Family room, bathroom, etc.) Under each category I listed things that I still want to do in each room. Things like, curtains, accent pillows, or new entry table.... It ended up being a VERY long list. I also put down what I thought each item would cost. That way when extra money comes my way, I can look at my list and see what I want to do.

Let your home reflect who you are and what you love.

"I work on the assuption that a house is successful if it's plesant to live in." —Designer Alexandra de Garidel-Thoron

“I learned that passion about objects and furnishings makes for fearless decorators—and that if you are comfortable in your home, everyone else will be too. That sense of authenticity is what gives a home its soul.”—Interior designer Courtnay Daniels Haden, Jan/Feb 10

"Modesty is great, and quietness is nice, but sometimes it's much more fun to be decadent."—Interior designer Robin Standefer of Roman and Williams, March 10

“I don’t think people have enough fun with decorating. It doesn’t always have to be so serious. Design isn’t like marriage. You don’t have to commit for life.”—Designer Ross Cassidy, June 10

A Merry Little Christmas

2011-12-31T16:06:00.000-08:00

We decided that Christmas is too quiet without the chaos of children. After being with Melynda and her family last Christmas; this Christmas was very mellow and quiet.

We went to both of our families homes during the holiday and enjoyed their company and delicious food.

Nathan brought his dog up with him, and Abbey and Brody had so much fun playing with each other. They provided many hours of entertainment for all around.

We also got to Skype with Elder Storm. He was so happy and said that he is really loving the mission. I can't believe he only has 10 months left!!!

It was so good to see him, he has the biggest smile. Great Christmas present!!

25%

2011-12-12T11:27:00.000-08:00

Its official, I'm 25% a RN!!!! Crazy!

1st semester went by really FAST...well in some ways. I can't wait to learn more and progress towards the end result.

Plua, Brianna, Me, & Danielle.

If I was thinking before class ended, I would have grabbed a bunch of us 1st semesters and took a big picture. But Oh well. 6 weeks off and then...

2nd Semester here we come....

Its beginning to look a lot like...

2011-11-30T19:48:00.000-08:00

Today I listened to Christmas music and decorated the house for Christmas.

I love our tree. It has tons of sparkly balls and bells on it.

I love this time of year. The colors, the music, the weather, and of course the opportunity to get together with family. I had a lot of fun decorating today!

9 days until cousin Jake Storm gets home from his mission!
12 days until school is over for the semester!
And 25 days left until CHRISTMAS!

Tree Hunting Christmas 2011

2011-11-29T14:34:00.000-08:00

This is the first year out of our studio, so we can have a full size Christmas tree!
This last Saturday, Dev, Abbey and I went with Luke and Naomi, to find our Christmas trees for 2011

Meghan wasn't able to come and she was very much missed.

Abbey was really good. She stuck around us the entire day and didn't wander off. We got lucky when we picked her. She is such a good puppy.

We finally found a tree that we liked way down the side of a mountain. We of course had to hall it all the way back up the mountain. I shouldn't be so picky.

I forgot to take a pic of our picked tree and I need to put more lights on it now, so it is unavailable for pictures. But, it was a beautiful day and we had a good time.
This is our new family tradition.

Lucky

2011-11-19T14:53:00.000-08:00

I am one lucky girl! I feel so thankful for you babe:) So grateful to be able to spend eternity with you.

Just wanted to say that I love you! I appreciate how hard-working you are, your determination, the acts of service you do for others, your kindness, your positive outlook on life, and your constant support.

Probably not the last...

2011-11-17T22:20:00.000-08:00

This probably isn't the last post about nursing I will ever make, but...

This is Jess and I in class, we may or may not have been bored.

This is our teacher, John. He is really awesome and hilarious!

We had picture day with our scrubs and we went back to visit our guy at bed number 3. He has since made a full recovery from the time that we accidentally allowed him to fall out of bed.

Love these ladies.

I just can't believe that this semester is nearing the end. It has gone by so FAST!

Semester 2 is supposed to be the hardest of the entire program.

Everyone has built it up to be really hard, so I am nervous.

On the positive side we get to do rotations in OB and PEDS:)

Girls Day: Soups & Chick Flicks

2011-11-11T16:55:00.000-08:00

There are many great gals in the nursing program with me, but I have become really close with two of them:) Jess & Danielle. There are lots of fun and very sweet.

We had 6 days of NO SCHOOL! Nicest break ever!! So we got together one day and each made a soup.

We each made huge pots! Then we split them up into freezer bags and each got some of each soup for a rainy day.

We had a lot of fun! And all of the soups were SO YUMMY!!!

Danielle has made these muffins for us before, and we LOVED them. So she brought the stuff to make them:)

Then we watched a chick flick and Abbey snuggled with us

Fun day:)

Oh and P.S. we only have 4 weeks left of 1st SEMESTER:)

The Big Reveal

2011-11-02T22:53:00.000-07:00

I finally FINISHED THE PIANO!

We took it apart and sanded it all down.

Then I primed it and painted it this Bountiful Blue

I LOVE IT!! It is the perfect color for our home. It matches with all the other teal colors I had in the house.

It completes our living room for now (I will get bored and want to move everything around in a couple weeks I'm sure)

Also, Dev's dad gave us this big desk. It was oak, Im not a fan of oak. So Dev stained it a dark color and we put some new hardware on it. It is great because it is so much bigger. Way more room to do school work.

Tell me what you think, do you like the blue piano?

Halloween 2011

2011-11-02T20:48:00.000-07:00

We went to Niki & Cevin's Halloween party.

I wasn't sure if we were going to be able to go because of school, we threw these costumes 5 minutes before the party.

Dev=Dr. McSteamy

Allie=Nurse

Dr. McSteamy needs to refresh his anatomy of where the heart is located. ha

Abigail Ogden

2011-10-17T20:18:00.000-07:00

Meet our new little girl...

Abbey

August 13, 2011

She is a really good little dog, not too hyper and is already really good about going outside and go potty.

She is a scardy cat, and sticks close by us.

We have been looking for weeks for a black lab girl puppy and they have all been too expensive! We were driving close to our house, their was a boy holding up a sign "Puppies 4 Sale" I looked over and the girl next to him was holding this little one. She is perfect, everything we wanted:)

Hopefully she will help my want for a baby, until nursing school is over:)

NSG 56

2011-10-17T19:56:00.000-07:00

The Nursing program so far...

I haven't taken many pictures, but we are on week 9 of 18 now and just started clinicals this last weekend. No more lab:( Kind of sad because it was a good time, as you can see in the picture below...

The second day we went to lunch and we forgot to raise the rales on the bed. We came back to an embarrassing class presentation of us assessing our patient and noting the damage to him. haha We never let our patient fall out of bed again!

Our first SQ shot!

Our "patient" in the lab, nice guy :)

The Rascal's

2011-09-16T13:43:00.000-07:00

Mom & Dad surprised Emily & I and got us Rascal Flatts tickets:) Devin was unable to go because he had homework:( He was missed very much:) I felt bad going without him, but he told me to go ahead without him. Such a sweetie:)

We had a blast! Sara Evans was one of the openers! My mom & I have wanted to see her in concert FOREVER! She was really good:) And then of course Rascal was great too!

We were on the lawn, which was fine with us. But we got a free upgrade to the seats! Score!

Mom & Dad thank you so much for a lovely surprise! It was really fun and quite a treat:)

They are the best! Love you:)

Camping with the Ogden Fam

2011-09-05T10:08:00.000-07:00

This weekend we went up to Lake Almanor again. But with the Ogden side of the fam this time. It was another fun weekend! We took the jet ski's up again. The Davis's, Chamley's, & Lambert's were up there as well. The little kids had fun taking turns riding the jet ski's!

I LOVE LAKE ALMANOR!
I was raised up there, and the last two times I have gone up there; I have been wishing I lived back up there. It is so beautiful and charming. I love the quiet and the smell of the trees!

Great weekend. I decided that I suck at taking pictures while I'm camping. I hardly take any:(

A Little Break

2011-09-05T10:01:00.000-07:00

One day last week, I had been studying ALL DAY. Dev came home and said that I needed a break, and I had to agree. So, he went and grabbed one of my "projects." I had already bought the paint for this, so it was perfect.

This find: I found at a yard sale and the lady sold it to me for $5! Such a deal. I love it! It is so vintage and perfect for our guest room.

Primed it with white paint first...

Then used a spray paint to cover it. This isn't exactly the color I wanted for this bed, but I love it!

Now all it needs:
Mattress
White Duvet
Colorful pillows (orange, green)

Re-Do's

2011-09-01T09:35:00.000-07:00

So, I have many projects that have been wanting to get done. And before I started the Nursing Program, I was able to get a couple done. Mostly painting projects. But I usually buy things for a great price and then do a make-over on them. Paint is my friend. So I actually had these two shelves on each side of the fireplace. They were in our guest room and were painted brown.

The guest room is not decorated, Devin actually had the idea to paint them white and put them on either side of the fireplace. I love that man. So smart. So I painted them and I love the way they look in there new spot!! Now, I'm thinking I make that feature wall stand out just a bit more by painting it. But I'm not sure what color yet.

This piece was Grandma Kay's and I have always loved it. It was in pretty bad shape before. It felt like it was going to collapse any second and the stain on it was coming off and un-even. So I was going to work on this and get 'er fixed up. So I took out to my Dad's wood shop because he has everything I would need. Ya well I got busy and it sat out there for awhile. So my Dad started working on it for me. I love him! He is amazing! He took it all apart and stripped the stain. Put a couple coats of a dark stain. Put it back together and made it very sturdy.

On each of those shelves there were holes, because this was an umbrella stand, coat rack (there were hooks all along the side). But my Dad being amazing, put new pieces of wood that completely match so that they would be shelves instead of holes. :) I love it because it was my Grandma's, because its different than a lot of furniture I see around today. And I love it because my dad put work into it for ME!

Keeping a Record

2011-09-01T09:18:00.000-07:00

So maybe I am weird, but anybody that knows me, knows that I like to have everything organized, color coated, and everything has to be CUTE! Anyways, I bought this cute journal specifically for the Nursing Program.

I am trying to write in everyday or at least every other day of things that I am doing in Nursing School.
Sometimes it's just like a simple Facebook status update like "learned how to set up a sterile field today" or sometimes I write an entire page about what I'm doing. I think that this will be fun to look back on.
So far I am doing really good about writing in it. Hopefully it lasts.

A Happy Ending

2011-08-28T11:08:00.000-07:00

So after I started the Nursing Program on Monday and got a really good idea of how it was going to be throughout the semester, I knew that I wouldn't be able to work, the hours I had promised work.

SO....

after talking it over with my wonderful husband,

I QUIT my job!!!

And the reason why this is so happy for me is:

1. I have hated that job since I first started working there 4.5 years ago

(I strongly dis-like sitting at a desk all day, doing the same thing over and over)

2. Now I can devote all my time to my new full time job: NURSING SCHOOL

haha I know I am a dork, but I always want a picture of some kind in my blog posts. That isn't really me, just in case you were wondering. haha

3. I have always been the type of person that likes to have a different schedule

(and what I mean by that is that, I don't like being in the same place (Accucode), at the same time (8-5) place everyday. I love change!)

Don't get me wrong, it was always nice that they would work around my schedule, and all the people that work there are really great! But I am so relieved to be out of there!

There are many other reasons that I took into consideration before quitting, but I am excited to put all of my energy, thought, and effort into my new full-time job :)

1/64th done

2011-08-28T11:07:00.001-07:00

I started the Nursing Program at Butte College on Monday!

I can't believe I finally started, I have had a count down for the last 100 days:) It at the time it seemed like the day would never come!

My teacher, John (He is awesome!) congratulated us on Friday for getting 1/64th way through the nursing program or 1/16th way through the semester. haha

Class 14

There are 48 in our class, we are the last class of 48. Butte College was getting funding which allowed them to expand there nursing program to 48 students per semester. They are no longer receiving that funding so starting next semester they will be going back to their original 24 a semester.

Even though it was only the first week, I did nothing but homework and study(and this is the easy stuff haha). So I am almost adjusted to the "study all the time" schedule. I knew it was going to be like this, so it doesn't surprise me.

I am LOVING it so far and I am learning so much! I feel so grateful to my Heavenly Father for placing me in this program at Butte College. I truly believe that it is one of the top Nursing Programs in California.

This is my lab group, all really nice and hard working. We all get along great!

So there might me a few more blog posts about the program, just a guess? haha
I am going to try and blog on Sundays, if there is anything to blog about. I am going to try really, really hard to not studying on Sundays, I know I will be blessed for keeping the Sabbath day holy.

Like the Good Old Days...

2011-08-28T11:07:00.000-07:00

We used to go camping with the Keables, Ogden's, and Other Storms, every year. We usually would go to Jedediah Smith State Campground in Crescent City or once we went to Morro Bay. Every time we would go, we would have so much FUN!

Our family hasn't gone in a couple years, and the big camping trip with everyone, has kind of died out.

But we did go up for a night with the Keables, and camp in Lake Almanor. It was short but fun!

The campsite was right on the water and it was a short drive compared to the 8 drive it would take us to get to Crescent City.

Whit & I, it was so good to hang out with her during her visit to Chico! I miss ya Whit!

Dev & I brought up the Jet Ski's and everybody enjoyed that.

Mom & Dad are the cutest!

My BFF

I failed at picture taking this trip. I got no pictures of us and the Keables or everyone on the Jet Ski's

I'll do better next time.

Maintenance

2011-08-09T19:39:00.001-07:00

FYI

I am getting ready to put my blog into a book, so I am just going back through to some of the really old ones and making the pictures bigger and stuff like that, so don't pay attention when in your dashboard, it lists a bunch of old blog posts.

Thanks

Oh Martha!

2011-08-07T16:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my Mom & I cleaned, and acted like Martha Stewart! Haha We were hosting a baby-shower for Whitney, she is having TWIN BOYS! So fun.

Martha 1 & Martha 2

We were so happy with how all of the decor came together! I am really bummed that I didn't get a picture of all of the decor together, but oh well.

We kept joking with each other as we would think of more creative things to do around the house, "Oh Martha!, you are so good" or "Oh Martha, how do you do the things you do?" haha

Isn't this cake stand totally awesome? My Mom got it at a yard sale for $10. Totally worth it! This isn't the first time we have used it, and it won't be the last!

I loved this. This was an "Oh Martha" haha

We had tissue puff pom poms everywhere to add color! So cute!

I am SO excited for Whitney! This was the only non-blury picture I got of us together, and it didn't even show how cute she is prego :( But take my word for it, she is adorable!

New Look...

2011-08-05T18:08:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to go back more towards my natural hair color,
and Devin has been wanting me to cut it short so....

Two

2011-07-31T14:55:00.000-07:00

Two years ago today, we were married in for time & all eternity.

Devin you are my very best friend and I love you babe!

Sleepover

2011-07-31T14:11:00.000-07:00

Our nieces are in town this week, and we thought it would be fun to have them over for a sleep over, and...It WAS! We love them so much!

Lauren & I were drawing on the whiteboard and she always wanted to take the lid off and would always make this look....hahah

We had pizza & popcorn

Watched movies

Played Barbies

Devin was sneaky and woke up and took this picture. I loved it, when in the middle of the night the girls would snuggle up to me.

No sleepover is complete without a fort. :)

We played in the sprinklers...

We had lots of fun with the girls! I wish we lived closer to them!

Love you girls!

Fort Bragg 2011

2011-07-24T23:18:00.000-07:00

We had a lot of fun on this short trip. I don't know if I would really want to go back to Fort Bragg again though, just because its foggy and the town is trash, lets face it!

But camping is a good time:) Hope to fit in a couple other small trips before the summer is over, and school starts!

2011-07-18T22:15:00.000-07:00

Ok so I got a FREE piano! And its just what I wanted! Devin & I have been wanting one because we want to re-learn, or learn to play the piano. The one that I got is just like this green one here, but it is not painted, its beat up and totally perfect. But I want to paint it so please vote between these ones:

A: avocado piano (LOVE)

B: Antique White

C: Feeling Blue (Love but I am worried that I will not want this color forever, although I don't see how, because this is my favorite color)

D: Celestial White

So this piano will be painted in the next month, but I need your help. Please vote and tell me what you love? I want to do one of the color ones, but I am nervous too!

Let me know!

Thanks so much

Youth Conference - 5 Stake (Chico, Redding, Anderson, Gridley, Yuba City)

2011-07-17T17:18:00.000-07:00

Check out the flash mob here from Youth Conference

Youth Conference 2011

2011-07-17T12:03:00.000-07:00

Devin & I were asked to be counselors for this years 5-stake Youth Conference. It was hosted in Chico and was three days.

Emily was a Counselor too!

Braxton was a counselor too! Actually the entire family played a part in youth conference. Mom is in the YW Presidency and Dad was in charge of a service project.

I had so much fun with these girls! They were amazing girls. So sweet, funny, kind, outgoing!

The guys in our group we so awesome too! I saw many of them going up to people that were by themselves and getting to know them. All of them are going to make GREAT missionaries one day. They are all such fabulous examples to all those around them.

I hope that we are able to stay in contact with all of them. We love you all of you guys & gals!!!

The Rustic Cabin

2011-07-05T21:58:00.000-07:00

Devin's family has always talked about all the times they spent up at this cabin. I had never been, so on the 4th of July we went hiked up to it! It was a beautiful hike, through the valley's of Utah.

Even though it rained on us a lot, we had a really great time!

Congrats to Nate & Kristen!

2011-07-05T21:20:00.000-07:00

This weekend Dev's sister, Kristen got married to Nate! They were married in the Manti Temple, it was gorgeous! They are so cute together and we are so happy for them!

I didn't bring a camera to utah, so Grandma let me get hers. Thanks!

It was fun to be with the family!

Oh, we just love her so much! She is so stinkin' cute!

This is such a great picture of these guys

Check out Pinterest

2011-06-25T09:50:00.000-07:00

This is my new obsession!

Pinterest is amazing. Its a website that allows you to have different boards for different categories.

For example, I have boards like:

For the Home

For the Future Family(I have cute kiddos stuff in this one)

Yummy Food

Style

Quotes and Sayings

Photography

The purpose of this website is to allow you to organize all the cool things you find on the web in your own way. Its perfect because if I would find a cute craft project that I loved before, I would print it out. BUT NO MORE OF THAT! You just pin it on one of your boards and WA LA you have it right where you want it.

You can pick you category boards and pin whatever you want.

And here is the cool thing, you pin it on your board and then when you click on it, it will take you right to the source you got it from!

Genius!

I have to thank Meghan Watts for showing me this, it is so fun!

Oh! So you have to be "invited" to be apart of pinterest so leave your email if you want me to invite you. Once invited you can create your own account using your Facebook or twitter accounts. Which is fun because then you automatically follow your friends boards that are already friends with you on these accounts.

Plus you can share things with your friends by tagging them (like you do with twitter).

You should all check it out!

www.pinterest.com

Our Dads

2011-06-20T23:59:00.000-07:00

We are so lucky to live close to both of our parents, we really are very blessed. I can honestly say that we have great relationships with each of our fathers. And consider them our close friends. Funny story about Fathers Day this year. Devin and I were asked to speak in church about our fathers and the lessons that they had taught us.

We normally don't like to tell our families when we are speaking because we don't want to make it a big deal. But, because it was about our fathers and our talks would kind of be a tribute to them...we mentioned that we would be speaking. So...it happened to be the same day that my Uncle Steve was being released from as a Bishop in another ward at the same time. Devin and I kept saying, theres no way they would go to a releasing over a tribute to themselves on Fathers Day. So, as we were sitting up on the stand; looking out into the audience, we didn't see either of our families. We were convinced that they were in the lobby. But no, both of our families went to the other ward. I am just giving them a hard time because they feel so bad.

Brad and Teri didn't know that both of us were speaking and they didn't put the connection together that it was Fathers Day and the talks would probably be about our fathers. And my parents also failed to make the connection and went to the other ward. haha. We love teasing them because they both feel so bad for missing it. But now we have a "get out of jail free" card, right?

But we do want our fathers to know that we love them very much. We are so thankful for all of the advice they give to us. They are both amazing men, that are great examples to us. Devin and I feel that we are the people we are today because of teachings of our fathers.

We love you both!

These were some quotes that I loved and used in my talk:

" A Dad is a friend, even when it is not convenient"

"To a boy, a Dad should be a goal, a potential achievement. And to a girl, a Dad should be the hope of things to come, the model for a future Dad for her own children."

"True Dads must be an ideal for children to look up to...in a society [like today's] children need, more than ever, a solid example of male virtue and honor."

I am also thankful for Devin and the man that he is. He is going to be an AMAZING Father someday.

This weekend...

2011-06-20T23:27:00.001-07:00

This last weekend we went to Oakland for Rex & Ashley's wedding. We drove down with Meghan and Luke.

The GPS took us through the GETTO of Oakland and we were 10 minutes late getting there. We thought we had missed it for sure.

But when we checked in with the front desk, they told us that they were waiting for us. OOPS! I felt so bad. But Im glad we were able to go in. It was a beautiful sealing. Its the first sealing Devin and I had been to since we were married. It was neat to hear the covenants again, and remind us.

We had fun taking pictures, it was a beautiful day in Oakland.

I feel so blessed to have this sweet and good lookin man in my life. I know that I found the one person on this earth perfect for me! I love you babe

Oakland Temple

This is Annette and Luis Lugo's little guy, Juan. Devin had fun playing with him! He is such a cutie!

It was a great day. Good company and lots of love in the air!

D's Birthday!

2011-06-20T23:27:00.000-07:00

This is the only picture we took on Dev's birthday, but we had a fun night.
We went to dinner with Rex & Ashley, they were getting married the next day; but they were up for it.

Then...we went out for frozen yogurt with my parents.

Devin & I have really been wanting to go camping or sleep outside. So I set up a bed on the back patio; and we slept out there. It was so nice and cool. Good times.

Happy Birthday to my sweetie! You are the the best husband and my best friend. I love you deeper than the ocean and higher than then sky. hehe

Younger Days

2011-06-12T22:49:00.000-07:00

I recently made graduation videos for Emily and Braxton! It was a lot of work, but it was fun to look back on old pictures of when we were younger.

I love this one, snuggling with Dad

These were my uniforms for Tap dancing, I used to be in the Parade in Chester:)

Reading to Emmers

We had some good times with the Karaoke machine

This is so cute of Emily, Cody, and Braxton

Out on the Lake

Looking back on these younger pictures, makes me excited to have my own little ones :)

Paradise Lake

2011-06-12T22:36:00.000-07:00

We went to Paradise Lake this weekend to test out Dad's new Canoe and soak up the sun!

We had a good time

So I normally don't like taking pictures of just myself, but I have recently lost a lot of weight; Im pretty excited about it!

B & E Graduated!

2011-05-31T22:46:00.000-07:00

We all went to dindin to celebrate at Nash's...

Congratulations to both of you! I love you guys more than you know!

Mom's 50th

2011-05-31T22:16:00.000-07:00

We surprised my Mom for her 50th and took her to San Fran! Anytime we get together we have a good time, but you put my Dad in China Town; and thats a real good time!

Emily finding her inner self by the bay

G.Q. shot of Braxton!

Pier 39

And you can't go to San Fran and leave without getting a bread bowl! Yum!

My BFF, Emmers

My Dad took us to the TONGA ROOM, its inside the Fairmont Hotel. My Mom's Dad used to take her there as a little girl, and we thought she would enjoy it.

The food was AMAZING! They have a live band that plays (and they were actually pretty good) and there is dancing too! We all got up and danced and since we didn't know anyone there, we got down.

Haha! I don't think I have laughed that hard in a long time!

Happy 50th to Momma! You are my BFF

Outside the Fairmont Hotel, waiting to get a cab, they are so cute!

I love you Mother, glad we were able to celebrate with you!

Braxton's Senior Pics!

2011-05-24T20:49:00.000-07:00

Braxton Chad Storm

He is such a handsome guy! I love you baxter!

He is such a good guy, always willing to help those in need, and going out of his way to make others feel welcomed and important.

He graduates this Thursday(Emily too). I am so proud of all of your accomplishments Braxton, you are a great brother!

Quick Trip

2011-05-24T20:36:00.000-07:00

Melynda and the girls came down to Chico for a week, and I drove back with her and stayed a couple of days. I had FUN!

Lauren spilled a entire box of cereal on the way home haha :)

Between the apple products in the car, they had much to keep them entertained. haha Lauren is better at them all then a five year old. So funny

Lauren

Ella, Lauren, and I. Aubrey is missing from this picture :(

I just loved this little outfit Lauren had on, cute, cute!

Ella

Aubrey and her art :)

I let Aubrey play with the camera on the way to the airport and this is what we got...love it.

Skyping with Codster

2011-05-24T20:18:00.000-07:00

On Mother's Day we got to Skype with Cody Ryan! It was so great! He looked so good! Hopefully we will be able to Skype every time because now that we know what its like, it will be hard not to Skype. It was hard to push the "end call" button however. We both didn't want to push it!

We miss you Cody and LOVE LOVE LOVE Ya!

Because we were talking to Cody like at 5 that afternoon, we had my family over for dinner. We BBQ and I got some good pics...

Little Molly

Dev

Yummy Veggies

Little blury, but Emmers and Baxter are so cute. They are about to graduate!

It was a fun day! The highlight: Skyping with Codster

BBQ Master

2011-04-26T22:12:00.000-07:00

We just recently got a WEBER BBQ and we LOVE it!

It is perfect for the summer! We have been getting these marinades called "Grill Mates"

There are all different flavors and they are AMAZING! Highly suggest them!

Devin loves his new BBQ! What a cutie. :)

Even though its not a gas BBQ , the food tastes so much better with the charcoal!

Im so excited for summer!

Bees

2011-04-24T23:52:00.000-07:00

Devin's Dad ordered two bee hives. Devin wanted to help put one of the bee hives into their new home.

So, here is Dev getting the "sugar water" prepared

The two hives of bees. There are up to 13,000 bees in one hive.

The bees

Emily and Kristen painted their lovely home. Good job! It's so cute!

Devin, the bee keeper

Spraying the bees with sugar water to calm them.

About to put the bees in their new home.

Dev is holding the Queen Bee and then put her in the home first

The rest of the process was on video, so I didn't get any pictures. But it went pretty smoothly. It was a good learning experience. And now those little bees are working hard to make yummy Honey!

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T23:06:00.000-07:00

The Storm side of the family got together this easter, the Ogden side is all in Utah right now.

It was good to see the fam, haven't seen them since Thanksgiving (extended fam). Its been awhile.

The weather was beautiful and good food of course. We missed those that weren't there! Lori and Jared, Jake, and Cody!

I didn't get pictures of everyone together or others. Oops actually all of the pics i took were taken on the swing. haha

His Sacred Name - An Easter Declaration

2011-04-24T22:52:00.000-07:00

Craftsman

2011-04-24T22:36:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I am going to brag a little. About...my Dad!

My Dad is a General Contractor and has built many homes and made MANY beautiful pieces of furniture!

His latest project is this hand made canoe! He MADE It!! Like with his own two hands!

The detail is amazing!

Dad I think you are amazing and you have an amazing gift! Love you much!

Before and After

2011-04-12T18:13:00.000-07:00

We have a lot of furniture that was given to us, this is the stuff we have finished so far:

This little cabinet needed a fresh paint job

...and thats what it got, I love this apple green, its so cheery! We completed it, by adding some new knobs!

This is a end table. I HATE OAK!

So I painted it!

And this bench for the front porch, I forgot to take before pictures. But it was a old looking piece that had peeling red paint and was really fragile. So Dev put some screws in it to make it sturdy and then we gave it a face-lift with some paint!

I am going to try and find some fun fabric that will tie together the black bench and green table, and make pillows!

I WON THE LOTTERY!

2011-01-26T23:39:00.000-08:00

I really did win the lottery, just a different kind! The one that I had been hoping and praying to win!

I was picked as an alternate for Jan 2011 Semester, which has started this last monday.

This means that if anyone drops out before this Friday, then I am IN! I would start immediately. I don't wish anyone to drop out because I know how much they want to be there! If there is no one that drops out, then I start in AUG 2011! YAY!!! I am so excited, most people wait for two years to get into Butte's program and I only waited a year. I feel really bad that I got in, when I know there are people that have been waiting longer than me, that still aren't in. But I must have been picked for a reason!

I have been praying to Heavenly Father to help get into Butte's Nursing Program when the timing was right! So I guess it is. I went to the orientation last week, and I truly feel honored to be picked to go to Butte, I really believe that they have one of the BEST Nursing Program's around. The teachers all seemed SUPER nice and willing to help at all times.

So I am finally one step closer to my dream of becoming a....

Yahoo!

Jen's Pinning Ceremony!

2011-01-26T23:20:00.000-08:00

Before Christmas, I surprised Jenny and Emily by going out to Utah for Jenny's Pinning Ceremony from the NURSING PROGRAM!!!

I had a lot of fun out there with the girls, shopping and such. We celebrated Emily's birthday! Fun!

It was such a neat thing to go to because I was sitting there in the audience getting so excited to start the nursing program at Butte. Getting tired of waiting to get in, but I just kept thinking that it would all be worth it, someday soon (hopefully) I would be at one of these pinning ceremonies for ME!

Jen is continuing on to get her Bachelors in Nursing! GO JEN! I am so proud of her and excited for her!

Love you Jen! Congrats!

We Moved!!!

2011-01-26T22:57:00.000-08:00

We Moved out of the Studio! I realized that I never posted pics of it. We are thankful for the time we had in our little studio, So in memory for our first year and a half of marriage. Here are some:

Bedroom/Kitchen

Living Room/Kitchen/Dining room

Dining Room/Living room

Office/Living Room

Our Closet Dev built for us.

Our one shelving unit for storage

Tinny minny kitchen

It was a fun year and a half, but I would be lying if I said I wasn't ready to get more space.

And now....we have lots of space in our NEW HOUSE!!!

We moved into a two bedroom, one bath, big back yard, cuter than a button house!

It is so bright and lovely.

I am excited to keep decorating and to spread out a little. I LOVE IT!

Santa's Workshop

2011-01-26T21:47:00.000-08:00

I am very behind and I am only going to put the highlights on the blog. I am trying to keep up on Cody's blog, this means that mine gets no attention.

I love that kid, so oh well that I fall a little behind right? RIGHT!

In the last three months we have done some fun things!

Devin and I had a BLAST building our nieces Christmas present! It was a....DOLLHOUSE!

What little girl wouldn't want one? We worked on it all of December and were even trying to finish the day we left for Seattle for delivery! After it was done I wanted to keep it! It turned out better than the picture we had in out heads.

This dream dollhouse was three stories, had eight rooms and was cuter than a button!!

Dad helped us a lot and gave us so many wonderful ideas that added so much to the dollhouse

This little girl dream dollhouse, wouldn't be complete without custom wallpaper.

Painting the windows.

Trying to finish in time! We almost ran out of time!

The colorful fun inside

Roof! Devin found textured spray paint and it worked amazing!!!

We decided to put shingles on the gable ends and we loved it with the green color, added another texture and detail to the house.

I thought it would be fun to have window boxes with flowers under the already cute windows with shutters. More detail.

Grandma Ogden bought some furniture for the house, and it looked so cute inside! We tried to make the walls to scale of the furniture.

side of the house

Grand front door! Our good friend Niki is a great artist, Devin wanted a chandelier painted on the big window. I was hesitant but it turned out AMAZING! Good job Dev and Niki.

We wanted to customize the house a little more by putting there name above the door. Thanks Niki!

Also a welcome mat. Again...Niki! We also had Niki paint little hand prints on the "concrete" but I forgot to get a picture. They were the cutest little things!

Side profile of the mansion!

COMPLETE

YAY!!! We're done!

The girls loved it and it was so fun to spend Christmas with them!

Enjoying the house!

Storm Fam Photo Shoot

2010-10-30T17:57:00.000-07:00

Before Cody left we wanted to get family pictures taken. The boys just LOVE taking pictures; they were troopers though, considering how many we took. lol

Brian Miller took our pictures, he is awesome! Thanks Brian!

Here's a sample:

I love you family!

Emily is a Senior!

2010-10-30T17:50:00.000-07:00

Emily is a Senior!

She trusted me enough to take her senior pics. And I think they turned out beautiful!

But its not like she is pretty or anything. hehe

Love you em

Here's just a couple:

Braxton's pics are next!

Cody's Departure

2010-10-15T18:59:00.000-07:00

Elder Cody Ryan Storm

is now on his mission.

He gave an amazing farewell talk.

Watching his plane take off...missing him already

I have made a blog for Cody, I will be putting his letters and pics on there. There is nothing on there yet.

www.eldercodystorm.blogspot.com

I know he is going to be a great missionary, but it is a totally different experience when it's your own brother that is leaving on his mission.

I was nervous, excited and anxious for him. I kept thinking about how our family is changing in a big way really fast. Last year I got married and moved out. Next year Emily and Braxton will graduate and go off to college. And when Cody comes home I could have a baby, who knows? I've just always thought of our family as a "young family" and that is changing so fast. But even though there are the sad, reminiscent parts to having our family change; there are also happy things like; how we all have two best friends, Mom & Dad. Now that we are older, we have the best times with them. They are no longer the "lame parents"(they never were to me) we are all really close to them and we really enjoy being with them. :)

I love you Family. I was born into the greatest and I am so thankful that we are sealed for time and all eternity.

And my parting selfish thought: I can't wait till cody comes back. I miss miss him!

Grandparents

2010-10-15T18:17:00.000-07:00

Before Cody left we all wanted to go to Utah to visit Grandma & Grandpa.

We had a lot of fun with them. It was a short trip, but we made it fun!

Mom, Dad, Cody, Devin and I went to the St. George Temple. It was beautiful!

We got to see David, Alyssa and Weston! They took us to a place called "Fat Man's Revenge." That little opening you see in the the picture to the right, is what you have to fit through. It was scary. At certain points you cannot move and you just have to remain calm and slowly get through it. It was fun though.

At dinner

Cody decided that he wanted to be old for one night. He went and got a bunch of clothes and acted out this entire act that he came up with. it was so funny. I miss him.

The old man sleeping

Us girls went to Tai Pan and it was amazing. Grandma and Em playing dress up there. cute. Love you Gma!

Love you Grandma and Grandpa. We all had fun, hopefully we will see you both soon!

Sac River

2010-09-26T13:24:00.000-07:00

This last weekend, Mom, Dad, Cody, and I took a journey down the Sacramento River. (Dev couldn't come because he had school on Friday)

We drove up to Anderson and got in the river at Balls Ferry. Then we kayaked(and canoed) 24 miles down to just above Red Bluff. Camped along the river. Woke up to a beautiful sunrise on the river. Kayaked 22 more miles, when we arrived at our destination of Hidden Cove in Los Molinos.

Feet! :)

Cody Fishin'

Mom I know that you will love that i put this pic on here. :) She couldn't find her tennies, hence socks + water shoes :)

I lOVED IT! It was so peaceful and relaxing, I am super sore from the Canoe. But it was so quiet on the river, you just hear the birds and see the fishies jump. Surrounded by beautiful green, it made me appreciate the beauty that this world has to share.

What was fun about the river, is even though we paddled the entire time, the current moves you two miles an hour even when you take a break. AND there were a few RAPIDS on the Northern part of the river, which was a lot of fun!

So even though you are probably really tired of hearing about kayaking, because its not that exciting; I love it and there will probably be many more posts in our future about just that. :)

We miss our girls

2010-09-19T13:00:00.000-07:00

Our nieces are the cutest little girls EVER!

We were able to visit the girls, Melynda and Amiel on our way up to Canada. We had so much fun!

Miss you girls!

Love,

Aunt Allie & Uncle Devin

I Love You

2010-09-19T12:44:00.000-07:00

My Hubby

Just wanted to say! Dev I love you! You are an amazing husband and I couldn't ask for more!

Oh How I Love Crafts!!

2010-09-16T16:05:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty sure that my calling in life is to be a mom (someday. That isn't an announcement). And to do Crafty things all day.Hehe jk but it would be fun!

Crafts bring me so much joy and happiness. So I that note...I present to you, some of the simple little things that I have been crafting because they are fun!

I made these blocks, this lady in my mom's ward had them on her mantel. They were so cute, I just had to make them. Love them! I made them to match the colors in my house!

I made this pillow awhile ago, but I love it, its super fun!

I just made these, I hung them above my bed. I just got 12 x 12 canvass and Mod Podged some fabric over the top, they add color!

Fun Fun! I have other ideas, when I complete those, i will post them!

One Step Closer

2010-08-21T18:51:00.000-07:00

Cody went to the Temple today and is now one step closer to leaving on his mission!

He leaves in October, but he wanted to go to the temple before Jordan went back to school.

My dad just kept saying "this is such a great day for our family"

And it truly was, I'm so happy for Cody and I know he can't wait to leave.

He looks so handsome in his new "Missionary Suit"

The Guys

Beautiful day at the temple, I love the sky in this pic

I love you Cody and I know you will be one GREAT MISSIONARY!

Jeep Trip

2010-08-09T19:15:00.000-07:00

About a month ago Devin, Nate, and Dad went on a jeep trip up by the high lakes to try and find this old mining cabin that is up there.

They didn't find it, but they had a good time

Jeepin

They got stuck in the snow

So trying to find this cabin, they got to a point where they couldn't go any further with the Jeep. So they parked it and went hiking through this manzanita brush, their legs got all scratched up and Devin said that some of this stuff that they were trying to get through was up above their heads.

Then I guess there was so much pollen in the air that they started to loose there voices and were trying to call out to each other to find one another and could barely hear each other. Its a good thing we didn't have to call Search and Rescue again. hehe Just kidding dad. Silly boys.

They made it home and are still determined to find the cabin.

Split for the Day

2010-08-09T18:58:00.000-07:00

This weekend Dev and I split up, but both had fun:

I went to LAKE ALMANOR

With my other family, The Peden's hehe. I love all of you!

Jen and I had a fun time out on the Lake.

We went Jet Skiing:

We were a little wild out there and once we realized that it was fun to fall off the jet ski, we had even more fun!

Dev did a something a little more dirty, I don't even really want to put this on here, but he had a blast; and its not all about what I want right? RIGHT

So...

Cory, Nathan and devin went pig hunting

Dev has gone three times before this and has never even seen a pig, but this time they did and

they GOT ONE!

Here's the lovely pictures:

Cory was the one that spotted it

Nate took the shot and got it

We both had fun this weekend, but in very different ways. hehe

Sunriver

2010-08-09T18:43:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went up to Sunriver, OR with the Fam.

It was a short trip for us because we had to get back and work.

On Saturday we had a blast, we went white water rafting

The entire gang going rafting

Devin being cute

Brothers! Precious

This trip happened to land on our One year aniversary, the fam suprised us with a yummy cake from costco we we got back from rafting. The little girls were so excited and they made us cute cards.

Thanks again Family for the nice thought and the good cake.

Ella enjoying her cake

Aubrey

We had a great time and it was fun to be with everyone. Love you all!

Year One!!

2010-08-06T20:00:00.000-07:00

One year of marriage under our belt, a trillion and then some to go. :)

It has been such a FANTASTIC year!

Things Im thankful for in the past year:

(Not in any order)

One thing that Im really so grateful for is that we both have families that love us and support us, and that everybody gets along. They are awesome!

A husband that is sensitive to my moods and treats me way better than I could have ever hoped for.

That we are sealed in the temple for time and all eternity.

For being on our own and not having to drive one another home at midnight! :)

Learning how to cook and starting to like it.

Date Nights!

and many more things...

Devin I love you so much! I feel so blessed to be with you for all of eternity!

Happy ONE YEAR!

The Bowron Lakes, British Columbia Storm/Ogden Family Adventure!

2010-07-28T17:43:00.000-07:00

Where to begin....

THIS WAS THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME!

So my Dad and family have been planning this trip for the last 9 months and finally the day came, when we actually we able to experience it!

WARNING: THERE ARE MANY PICTURES! (And there is no possible way to capture at all how awesome this trip was and how hard it was. Most of our rainy and cold weather is on video and so I don't have that on here. So you get the pleasant version). Not saying it wasn't pleasant, it was wonderful!

About the Adventure:

1. The weather can change drastically, immediately.

2. It was hard.

3. We didn't really think about the fact that in order to complete
this; you, yourself, nobody else, have to paddle. It's on you to get to your destination for
that day. This is a hard concept to sink in! haha

4. There are 6 portage trails around the circuit, the longest one being about 2.5 miles.
This is where we got our kayaks out of the water and but them on carts and pulled them through the various trails to get to the next lake.

Here's the trip: Its a 72 mile Kayak/Canoe through 11 different lakes

This is the best map I could find of the circuit.

Our family planned to do this trip in 7 1/2 days and we all had our own individual kayaks.

Canada!

We rented out kayaks through Becker's Lodge

This is the view of Bowron Lake from Becker's Lodge

We rented the Betty Windle Cabin at Becker's Lodge the night before our big adventure started. Here's us with all of our stuff out the night before; making sure we have everything and organizing.

Devin and I with Bowron Lake in the back the night before we start.

I love this picture. My Dad's dream is finally come true. After all of the planning and hard work of preparation he put into this trip. He actually is able to see the beautiful scenery.

We got our paddles, life jackets, and emergency ropes. We're ready to GO! (Morning of our first day)

We are at the weighing station with our kayaks. We are getting our gear weighed (cannot exceed 60 lbs.)

Family pic, all of our gear is almost in the kayaks and we're about ready to start on our first portage trail.

Mom and Em, so cute.

We are on our first portage trail that leads to Kibbee Lake. So far we are all thinking: "What did we get ourselves into."

The start of

Kibbee Lake

Our next lake was Indian Point Lake, it was so BEAUTIFUL!

Em and Dad on Issac Lake

Bundled up for the cold, rain, wind and whatever else that day decided to throw us. Mom and I.

So there are about 6 of these "trappers cabins" around the entire circuit. They are to be shared by everyone. We were so thankful to get to this one and be able to dry out all of our wet clothes. They are very simple inside and have a wood stove and TONs of nails to hang wet stuff. People carve or write all over the cabins. All of them mostly said the same thing: "lots of rain but we are enjoying" or "had fun sleeping with the mice in here. Yes: They are infested with mice, but we were lucky not to see any. It's funny to look at the dates of the carvings, because the rainy comments take place all throughout the year. It is always raining; at least once a day.

The boys in trappers cabin staying warm.

Braxton pulling his kayak out of the lake.

SUN!!! Yay!

I love this picture!

This says it all.

Our fearless Leader. DAD. Always positive, always willing to help, and just AMAZING!

Goofy

Stopped on a portage trail by the Caraboo River

SISTERS by the Caraboo River, getting ready to get our kayaks off the carts and go down.

Braxton waiting patiently for everyone to get in the water.

My cute hunny

We were all getting ready to launch into the Caraboo River, and Dad decides that it looks like a fabulous time to cast a line in, why not? He caught 4 fish there just in about 5 minutes!

Beautiful sunset on the end of Lanezi Lake

At night, once all of our gear was out of the kayaks we would flip our kayaks over, because if you didn't your kayak would be filled with the nights' rain for you in the morning. :) Some people learned the hard way.

One of the many RainbowS!

Emmers and Brax

Lunch Break!

Dev an I. We saw our first MOOSE!

There she is!

Emmy is so cute. I love her!

Bowron Lake.

Dad trolling for fish and Mom Bundled up!

Emmy and I

Cody's version of a mosquito Net

We just FINISHED the entire circuit! Sad and Happy!

Emmy and Braxton after we were all cleaned up!

We're all clean and feeling good!

We had the most amazing time and we all can't wait to go again. AND WE WILL GO AGAIN!

Sacramento River!

2010-07-19T18:30:00.001-07:00

It's been awhile and MUCH has happened!

Awhile ago, Mom & Dad Ogden surprised Kristen, Devin & I on a tour of the Sacramento River.

I had never been on the river, and it was beautiful! It was so peaceful and green. So we went with our guide Henry and he took us in a river boat up and down a good chunk of the river for about a hour and a half.

And Then....

He pulled up to this Beautiful setting. It had three canopy's up and had a "kitchen" area and a "dinning" area with nice tables that had beautiful place settings. There were candles lit. Once we beached it, there was nice music playing and the sun was going to set soon. It was a gorgeous presentation. We had a great time as we were served appetizers, and the best dessert I have ever had.

It was a really nice treat and we enjoyed the night very much.

Thanks Mom and Dad!

Cody's Mission Call

2010-06-18T07:14:00.000-07:00

This is a video of Cody opening his Mission Call!!! Yay!

Called to Serve

2010-06-17T23:30:00.000-07:00

Elder Cody Ryan Storm

Called to Serve in the Ecuador Guayaquil South Mission

Spanish Speaking

Reporting to the Provo MTC October 13, 2010

We are SO excited for Cody!

Congratulations!

We Love you!

And get this...He is going to the same exact mission as his best friend Spencer Keables (Spencer is currently there serving his mission), He's thrilled!

Happy Birthday Dev!!

2010-06-17T22:41:00.000-07:00

Today is Devin's Birthday!

I love you Dev, you are an amazing Husband and I can't imagine my life without you in it!

We had a small little get together with Luke, Megan and Naomi

Cevin, Niki and Diesel

It was FUN!

2010-04-28T22:47:00.000-07:00

So I applied to the Butte College Nursing Program in February. Butte's program is a lottery, meaning that your name goes into a pot and they pick names. I knew there was a slim chance of getting in, and I didn't get in! :( I know I will get in eventually, but it is so hard to sit around and wait; meanwhile feeling like i am forgetting all of the information I just spent two years learning. You get to apply to the program twice a year, and your name goes in the pot each time you apply; so next time I apply my name will be in the pot twice. Anyways, I am not going to just sit around and wait, or at least I'm going to try and further my knowledge and get some experience.

So....I'm starting at the bottom!

I am three weeks into a CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant) program. This is the dirty work, literally. I will be showering, cleaning: patients (dippers and all) feeding them, helping them dress. Very labor intensive, turning patients, and dealing with a lot of poop. But I know this will make me a better nurse and I am excited to be around medical terminology and to be with patients. It will be hard and I know it probably won't be very exciting, but for some reason I am excited for this.

I can't wait to not sit at a desk all day.

Grandma Kay

2010-04-28T19:24:00.000-07:00

It's been one Year since my Grandma has passed away.

Last weekend we had a celebration of

her life, she didn't want a service given when she passed.

My Mom and I wanted to reflect on her life and share memories with close family and friends. So last Saturday we had a luncheon and showed a video of pictures for her life, we also did our balloon ceremony. When my Grandpa passed away we got balloons and tied messages to the them and let them up into the air. (This may not be environmentally friendly), but I think it a really neat idea and definitely a tradition that I would like to keep. So we did this "ceremony" for my Grandma as well. It's a way to feel like you are able to say that one last thing that you wanted to.

She was an amazing women and she taught me many things. I will always be thankful for her because she contributed majorly to who my mom is today and therefore who I am today.

I can't wait to see her again one day.

Girl's Trip

2010-04-17T23:06:00.000-07:00

Devin's sister and my new sis-in-law, Melynda and her adorable girls came up for the week for a spur of the moment visit.

We had so much fun! The girls are wild and so cute. We miss them so much. We had a great time

with them while they were here.

Hope to see you girls soon!

Melynda your an amazing mother! Love you all lots!

Studio...Part of it.

2010-02-16T17:24:00.000-08:00

Our Bedroom

We got this new Bed-Set for Christmas. I love it. I made the Headboard for the set, I think

it turned out pretty well. I still have to get some european pillows to go in the shams I have

and then it will be complete!

The colors in our little place are Blue and Brown.

Since our home consists of all one room, the entire house are these colors.

Which works out perfect because when we move into a bigger place all of this

blue and brown stuff will be just perfect for a bedroom; so I won't be stuck with these

colors all throughout the house.

That Bar there to the left, is the start of our Kitchen. So everything is really tight in our little home but it is working perfect for us.

Down-Falls:

It get's messy as soon as you open the door.

The entire house smells when there is a sink full of dirty dishes(that's why we shouldn't leave them in the sink)

I have run out of ideas for decorating in the place. :( I'm sure I'll come up with more.

Benefits:

Free! Free! Free!

Cute!

Easy to clean, takes no time at all.

The pool is right out our door.

I can't constantly find "Cute" new things that I must have for our house.

Great Neighbors (aka Gma and Gpa)

So you see that the pros out-weigh the cons.

We love it!

We are so grateful to Grandma & Grandpa for letting us stay here!

MORE PHOTOS TO COME SOON!

Family Celebration

2010-01-03T18:22:00.001-08:00

Most of our extended family went to Sac for Jake's first trip to the temple and afterwards a big celebration for Uncle Steve's 60th Birthday! We had a blast! It was a really great day.

We went to Joe's Crab Shack after the temple, my new favorite sea food resturant. It was so yummy!

Then we went to the inside race car track. Devin sat it out, because he had just done it and we could only have 12 people for a group rate. It was a blast and we had a great time! The only way that we could identify each other on the track is to look at their shoes. It was halarious, guess you had to be there though.

2009-12-15T17:53:00.000-08:00

THE SEMESTER IS FINALLY OVER!!!

It seems like this semester has been going on forever! Now Devin and I will actually be able do other things besides just studying...all the time. Which means that our blog might become a little more exciting (but I'm not promising anything) :)

And YAY! I am now done with all of my pre-requisites for Nursing!! Devin is continuing on working towards Construction Management and also starts his CHP tests in January.

More fun things to come....

Kauai

2009-10-17T22:37:00.000-07:00

Aloha!!!

Although this is just a wee bit late, I still want to talk about our Honeymoon because I am going to make this blog into a book at the end of next year! Not to mention we had the best time, and constantly talk about going back to the beautiful Island of Kauai!

First of all we were very lucky to get to go to Kauai for our Honeymoon. Janet (my mom's best friend in High School, and good friend now) completely hooked us up with a free condo to stay in. We wouldn't have gone to Kauai without the generosity of her! We love her and thank her so much!

We were in Kauai for a week, and it was the perfect amount of time! It is a pretty small Island, so we got to see almost the entire Island! The Island is very romantic and tropical. It's not very commercialized, so it still has a real islandy feel to it! We love it there! The entire time we were there it never got over 85...perfect.

It took us about two days to get in the groove of being there, with the time change and just getting to know were everything was.

Some of the things we did....

Lounged of course!

Went to some yummy and not so yummy dinners!

Ate at the local Burger Joint...the best dinner we had...we ate there twice.

Visited the beautiful Lighthouse.

Went swimming...which you see Dev diving into a wave here!

Enjoy all of the amazing scenery that the Island has to offer.

Gazed at the stars from our Hammock

Went on a rafting trip along the Na Pali coast...saw dolphins and turtles :)

And went snorkeling

Went hiking on the Hanakapiai Falls trail

Rented some Kayaks...had a good time but was way to tiring to ever be relaxing.

RANDOM: On our last day we had a couple hours to kill before to went to the airport. We didn't want to get all sandy, so we were driving around and we saw the HUMANE SOCIETY! As you know we both love doggies!

So...

to all of you who haven't gone or have but want to go back! Go for the both of us! It was awesome and we are definitely returning there in the future!

Aloha!

The Best Day of Our Lives!

2009-10-08T22:56:00.000-07:00

So so long ago, we met. Our families knew each other when I was 10 and Dev was 16. We never talked to each other, but we knew who each other was. We never looking at that time, would have though that we would even end up dating. After I graduated High School and started attending the local Student Ward, we started hanging out with the same group of friends. After awhile we started Dating; and dated for a long time in the "Mormon World" (two years). We had a blast together and got to know each other so well! We knew that one day we would be married. :) But we(Devin) was in no rush. Finally with a little push, Devin proposed May 2, 2009, we both were extremely happy!

Now looking back on how long we dated, I am really thankful that we dated as long as we did.

And then the BIG DAY arrived...July 31st, one of the happiest days of our lives. We talk all the time about what a great day it was. The atmosphere, all of the love and support and the fact that we were getting married in the temple! We wish we could re-live the day, it went by so fast. Everything turned out exactly how we hoped it would!

We had a blast at the temple taking all of the pictures and our reception the following day couldn't have been more perfect! We had a blast DaNCinG, LaUghing, & vIsITing everyone. We are so grateful for all of the love and support that we felt.

It was surprising very easy for both of us to get adjusted to being married. We think its because we got to know each other so well why we were dating!

We are so excited to start down the road of eternity with one another. We can't wait to start our careers, a family, buy a home to call our own someday, and go through all the other ups and downs that life throws our way; but for know we are enjoying every minute we spend together.