Taylor Tribute

Overcoming anxiety

2012-02-15T18:03:00.000-08:00

I am trying to overcome a particular trial and anxiety in my life that I have been dealing with for the last 4 years. I feel like it has hindered me and I want to turn a new leaf and beat this issue. I am determined to overcome this. For the last 4 years I have had an anxiety about having my blood pressure taken by someone, in the doctors office, in public facilities. I have a hard time not getting all panicky and crying in the doctors office because I'm afraid of my blood pressure being high- which in turn makes it high. On a side note when I take my blood pressure at home it is normal- under or around 120/68. You know some people have anxiety with needles or dentist or being sedated- those things don't bother me, but having my blood pressure does. It started 4 years ago after I had my kidney stone (that was a scary experience for me- I have never felt pain like that and I didn't know what was wrong), after the stone past I went into the county health clinic for a check up (I didn't have health insurance at the time- that is scary too not having insurance to cover your butt) and my Blood Pressure was in the 130/?'s. THe nurse assistant was unprofessional and I felt judged. I don't know if that was her intent- none the less that is how I felt. Since that experience going to the doctor has been an emotional roller coster. So this is where I'm at now... I am sick of it and want to overcome this. I don't want to hide this anymore, and feel all embarrassed about this. I want to write/ talk about it so I'm not ashamed of this, I am who I am and I am trying to be better in my life and fulfill everything that is in store for me and my family. The one thing I really admire about Jake is he is not ashamed of his mistakes or hick-ups throughout his life. He always faces them head on, doesn't hide them from anyone and continues to press forward. Last night Jake gave me a talking to about this issue and I was a little aggravated because I knew he was right and I was being anxious and passive so today I have been working on my attitude about my blood pressure issue and am facing it head on. If my blood pressure was high I would make the proper lifestyle changes to improve it and get the proper medications too, and I would be okay with that (or work on being okay with it). In the past I have sought talking to a councilor, she helped but not enough. I have fasted and prayed a lot and that has really helped. It is still inward and I am trying to be more outward and forthcoming in my life. I am not apologizing about this or be ashamed, its something I am working on each day. I am a work in progress:)

BEST Andrea Bocelli Song EVER! - (HQ Sound) - The Lord's Prayer (better ...

2012-02-15T10:58:00.000-08:00

Christmas Cheer

2011-12-23T22:36:00.001-08:00

Tonight Jake and I went with some friends of ours, James and Candice, to a zoo lights exhibit. We tons of fun and the lights were really pretty

The Reason for the Season

2011-12-12T23:52:00.000-08:00

I love the Christmas season- Decorating our home, attempting to bake family recipes, and definitely a break from school:)

For the last couple of years I have been looking for a wooden nativity scene to set in our home. I have a LITTLE glass one, but I grew up with my mom having a table size that have a stable with it. My mom also had a hand carved one that was beautiful and I have been trying to fine one that looks similar to it. Little did I know that Nativities are very expensive- like in the hundreds of dollars for a decent looking one (I'm very picking). So a few weeks ago a new friend in my new ward posted on facebook that her in-laws were going to Africa to do service there (totally cool). On her facebook post my friend posted pictures of a man in our church over in Africa that hand carves Nativity sets for $45! Only $45! I was all for it. She posted pictures of a variety of sets and different colored woods. SO amazing! SO I got one:) I couldn't be happier. This man is truly talented.

I wish I knew the mans name that made the Nativity. I would give him a big hug. This is the really cool part- THis man used the Perpetual Education Fund to get his education there and now he is using his talent to pay his education loan back so others can get their education. I think that is amazing. How could I not support that when I'm given the opportunity:)

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

My Thoughts

2011-11-08T13:43:00.000-08:00

I don't have really anything witty to say or any fun pictures to post. Lately Jake and I have been in "Ground Hog's Day" survival mode. Anyone who has gone through residency, and the spouse has there own life obligations- more schooling, children, work, etc... will understand this comment. Jake and I are learning to love it here in Bremerton, WA. We aren't there yet loving it, but I will tell you we are HUMBLY GRATEFUL to be here. For a couple of reasons; 1) Jake gets to finish training, 2) Jake doesn't get deployed while he is in training:), 3) the pace of life is slower here, and those are the mean reasons right now. I'm certain there will be more reason down the road of why we need to be here. We both have been feeling so detached and far away from our families and close friends. We loved San Diego (for obvious reasons- Beach, sun, walking the beach, sun...) because we were close to family. I really liked our ward there, I made some great friends. I have to admit that when we started driving North on I-5 leaving Carlsbad I got teary eyed.
Come to think of it, another reason why it is good for us to be here, for about the first half of the year we became a little lackadaisical with our faith. Not that we stopped going to church or lost our testimony, we just became more lax and busy. That combination doesn't lead to spiritual growth. So I am trying to make a more concerted effort each day to read the Book of Mormon and say our prayers. We are making a greater effort to have Family home evening (even if it is brief) and go to the temple more than me have at the beginning of the year. I have been feeling more lately that only I am in charge and responsible for my Spiritual growth and study, no one else can do it for me, and only I will keep myself from eternal progression.

We have been here for 4 months now. I have completed 3 more classes and I am in my last class before my big master's project class which will start in January after a month winter break (much needed- I'm very burnt out with school). So If all goes according to plan I should be done with school in May:) I will have my MSA, I'm very excited! Next month I am doing something that I have wanted to do for about 8 years now. I am taking the level 1 YogaFit instructor course to become a yoga instructor. It is something I can do to bring in money while we move around while Jake is in the Navy. Since the economy is struggling finding jobs without knowing someone is harder plus I don't have administrative experience and everyone wants to hire people that have at least 2 years experience. So I hope to use my degree down the road, But I will use yoga to pay back my school loans.

I was asked to be a Relief Society teacher for my ward calling. I excited about that because I have never been a Sunday teacher except when I've been in presidencies and I have had to teach. It will be fun. Jake is the Secretary in the Young Men's organization and they have asked him to get the Duty to God program up and running. Since Jake has his (He got his Eagle when he was 13 years old), I think he will be a great example to the Young Men in the ward with all he has accomplished in his life.

We hope to have kids sometime soon. Life hasn't gone how we thought it would in this area, but we are patiently looking forward for that miracle in our family. That is all I want to say about that today.

I am trying to have more gratitude and be more positive in my life each day, and since it is November with Thanksgiving around the corner, I have decided that everyday for the month of November I would post on Facebook one thing that I am grateful for to keep my mine focused on gratitude. It has worked so far and I'm loving it:)

Last week, actually a week ago from today. I had braces put on my teeth. My teeth on the bottom are particularly in bad shape over lapping each other. So Jake has always said, and I have agreed, that I have needed braces. Well I thought about doing it in San Diego, I'm glad I didn't do it there since we were only there for one year, but it has worked out to do it here since we are here for an other 21 months. If all goes to plan I should only have to have them on for 18 months, up to 24 months. Cross my fingers that I can adjust my teeth fast so I can get them off at 18 months! They are not the most comfortable things to say the least.

Seattle

2011-09-24T18:17:00.001-07:00

Today Jake and I took the ferry from Bremerton to Seattle to get some city life. We love this town and the culture here

Deadliest Catch

2011-09-03T13:31:00.000-07:00

Jake loves the show on Discovery channel "Deadliest Catch." We watch every season. We have been adjusting to living up here in Washington in a pretty quiet area. Everything is really spread out so you have to drive to go and do anything. We are adjusting to not being around any family from either side. So we have wanted to start traditions or do some things that the locals do around here. So fishing is a big deal up here in the Pacific Northwest and people fish and go crabbing right off the piers around the towns along the Puget Sound. So last weekend we went to a state park in Port Orchard to explore the area. On our drive there we drove right along the Sound- beautiful drive. On our way back home from our exploration we stopped at one of the piers where we saw people fishing. People were catching Salmon and lots of crabs. We got all excited and went and bought all the gear and crabbing license to start doing it. So last night Jake and I went back to that same pier and went crab fishing for our first time. Lots of fun:) Jake saw some massive seas lions swimming round the pier. We caught 4 rock crab ourselves and two were given to us from others fishing. We had 6 crab, that was enough for us. We went home and boiled the crab, dug out the meat and made and alfredo pasta dish. It was rather rich

It was fun to experience something new. I have never even fished before even though I have always wanted to. Jake has done lots of fishing in his life (other than the last 6 years), but this was the first time he crabbed too. I have eaten Lobster before but neither of us had had crab before. It was good, but I don't know how often we will go out and crab fish. I know we will do it again, but as to how often... it is yet to be determined.

Jammin'

2011-08-21T23:25:00.000-07:00

So During our move and setting up shop in our new home, I was taking a course online. I got really far behind but I busted my butt to finish the class on time. I don't think my stuff was quality but I finished it. So this last week I had some much needed time off from school to do some things for fun. I made freezer jam for the first time in my life- sooo easy and soooo fun! I made Strawberry, Raspberry and a few jars of apple. Another day I went to a near by beach to look for sea glass- that was so fun. I did lots cooking new recipes. I went and did service at the local LDS cannery- filling cans. Here are my freezer jam creations:)

The jam makes the best peanut butter and jam sandwiches:)

And we Waited…...

2011-08-21T23:14:00.000-07:00

So our move to Bremerton was not very smooth. Our belongings arrived two weeks after they were supposed to, and that was with pushing and yelling at the moving company. It put a wrench in Jake's time off between commands. Luckily we made lemonade out of lemons. We did not just sit around we went and explored the beauties up here, and oh man are there beauties! We went down to Cannon Beach in Oregon and we went over to Seattle to the Japanese Garden there. We went to Port Townsend a quaint boutique town.

Stops on the Move

2011-08-21T22:54:00.000-07:00

So After Jake's graduation we sadly moved from sunny Southern California to rainy Bremerton Washington. We had to drive both cars so we made some fun stops going up California. We stayed at Jake's parents place in Oxnard for 5/ 6 days since we were moving over the 4th of July our stuff wasn't going to get shipped for a few extra days. So we headed up the coast of Cali. We stopped at the Hearst Castle, Monterey, drove over the Golden Gate bridge in San Fransisco. We stopped at the Golden gate park which was gorgeous and went through the Japanese Garden. We love Japanese gardens. Here are some pictures from our stops.

Internship Graduation

2011-08-21T21:58:00.000-07:00

It has been a few months since I have written. It has been quite a crazy couple of months we have just gone through. Jake completed and graduated Internship at the end of June. It was such a great time:) Here are a few pictures from that glorious day. Jake's parents came along with his sister Gennie and her husband Mike and their daughter Sarah Ashley. It was great to share the experience with family. The ceremony was right outside Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton.

nienie

2011-07-04T20:15:00.000-07:00

nienie

Navy Time... well kind of

2011-06-02T14:01:00.000-07:00

Every year for the last 25 years the Navy has sponsored the San Diego Bay Bridge Run. It is a four mile run starting down town San Diego and it goes over the bridge to Coronado Island. Jake's brother Dan and his family got tickets to do the run and had a couple extras and asked us if we wanted to run with them. SURE! It has been over a years since I have run in a community race so I was all for it and so was Jake. Don't get me wrong, I have run, just not in a race. At the end of the race they were giving out tickets to the following weeks San Diego Padres game- San Diego Padres vs. the Seattle Mariners. I thought that was very fitting since we are moving there next month:) I was rooting for the Mariners- the Padres really suck. Anyways, we had lots of fun with Dan and Suzy and their kids. We are really going to miss them when we move. We are glad we have been able to make some great memories with them while we have been here this year. Here are some pictures from the run, I don't have any from the Baseball game.

4 Years of Fun!

2011-05-05T16:02:00.000-07:00

Today is Jake and my four year wedding anniversary! Its amazing how fast time flies by. I have been reflecting on the last four years today and how I've changed and grown. I feel fortunate that Jake is easy to live with. We do have our arguments every so often- its usually because I miss interpret what he is saying to mean something else. I think that the hardest thing we have had to deal with in our marriage is medical school and education and the time they take up. It is one profession that will take over your life if you let it. I'm not saying Jake isn't totally dedicated, I'm just saying that everything needs boundaries:) I thought I would write down some pearls of wisdom I have learned through my short time being married. I'm sure everyone has learned these and maybe more in relationships. Some are funny, and some are more heart felt:
* First, men's brains are hard wired differently from women's and they see things totally different from us:)
* Sometimes I don't want my husband to fix it, I just want him to listen to me:)
* To always focus on positive attributes of each other, and of yourself. It is so easy to focus on the negative and that just takes up to much energy.
* It is too easy to be self critical.
* Be each others #1 cheerleader- sometimes when life feels like groundhogs day or a marathon, you need someone to cheer you on through that last lap- or even a few miles:P
* Always be honest in every circumstances- yes please tell me if my pants make my butt look big.
* Laugh at yourself.
* Laugh with each other.
* Tell each other EVERY DAY that you love each other.
* Give each other a KISS and a HUG every day.
* LOTS of rolls in the hay are fun:)
* Really- don't sweat the small stuff (I am continually working on that one).
* Pray together EVERY DAY!
* Give your self a "time out" if you feel like you are going to yell at each other- a clear head sees both sides.
* Encourage each other to have hobbies both together and individually.
* Be equally yoked in faith, finances, family- meaning there importance to you.
* Marriage is eternal. Treat it as such
* Be the person you want to be married to.
* Have the courage to be the first one to say I'm sorry.
* Never, ever under any circumstances go to bed angry at each other.
* If you can't talk about anything and everything together than who do you talk to?
*Always smile:)

Happy Anniversary Jacob! I Love you! Cheers to 4 years of marriage and an eternity together!

Camera Fun

2011-04-21T21:24:00.000-07:00

Jake and I went to the Botanical Gardens in Encinitas yesterday and I was pretending that I was a nature photographer. We have one of those Kodak easy touch digital cameras, nothing special but I was using the different settings it offers. One day I want to get a nice Nikon camera. So here are some pictures I took that I liked.

My wedding flower

Where is the Lizard?

Big frog chillin'

Beautiful Hummingbird

Bamboo

Whats your favorite picture? This was fun:) I love the vibrant colors. We were walking along and a humming bird sat on the fence. It was awesome to be able to get pictures of a humming bird. I have never seen one that close or that still for that matter.

Sailing in San Diego

2011-04-04T14:50:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Jake's brother, Dan, and his family took us out sailing on his boat. It was amazing! We totally enjoyed ourselves. It was the best time we have had since we have lived out here. The Day was perfect, not a cloud in the sky. We sailed out in San Diego Bay to Point Loma. I love seeing all the Navy ships lined up, I don't know why, but I just love it. Here are some pictures from our fun filled day!

It was a great time with Dan and Suzy and their kids. We were all totally relaxed.

Tribute to our Grandpas

2011-03-29T16:20:00.000-07:00

This last weekend was a weekend full of memories. Friday we got a call from Jake's parents telling that Grandpa Norris, Ben (Jake's mom's dad), had past away in the night, in his sleep. He was 95 years old. His wonderful wife and mother of his four beautiful children was waiting on the other side to greet him home. The night he passed his wife had visited him and the nurses heard him laughing in his sleep. He went peacefully, no one could ask for a better way to pass this life. Grandpa Ben was a true Southern gentlemen that was proper and very put together. He was an educated man who was a school principle for many years. He took great pride in the caring of his home and yard- beautiful yard. A big lover of birds and their precious beauty. He was kind hearted, and extremely loyal to his family. He loved his family and was a great patriarch. He started to built his legacy that is here today with a firm foundation. He sure loved his grandson Jacob. Jake was born two months early, nearly right after his family had moved to Hawaii where his dad was stationed in the Navy. Jake's dad was off at sea on the aircraft carrier when Jake was born, and had to come home abruptly. Grandpa Ben came to Hawaii to stay with his family and help take care of his legacy of grandchildren as there were many adjustments being made. He always told Jake how proud he was of him and his accomplishments. Jake and his grandpa shared a love of nature and natural beauty. Grandpa Ben will live in our hearts with fondness of the man he is.

The weekend went by with thought and prayers for his wonderful family still together, we received a call on Monday (yesterday) telling us that Grandpa Dan Taylor (Jake's dad's father) passed away up on the family land in Bannida, Idaho that morning. Grandpa Dan was 92 years old. He too has built a legacy in the family. Along with his predecessors and his progenitors, Grandpa Dan served as a pilot in the Army air corp flying B17's. He served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Married beautiful Janet and had three handsome sons. He received his law degree and traveled the world as an American Diplomat. Taylor roots run deep in Idaho where the ranch has been in the family for generations. Jake has many fond memories of going and literally working the land beside his father and Grandpa Dan. He has often said that, that is where he learned and valued the importance of hard work. Grandpa Dan left the legacy of serving God and our country. He was very proud of Jake with the decisions and choices he has made in his life. Grandpa Dan was a major part of who Jake has become today. Dan's legacy shines bright through the generations he has left for his home above with his sweet Janet.

This is a picture of our last Christmas with Grandpa Dan, 2009. We love him and miss him dearly. Unfortunately we do not have any pictures of Jake with his Grandpa Ben, but know that he is equally loved and missed and very much a part of who Jake has become as well. For them both I am truly grateful. I am married to the man who is made of/ from the best of both of them.

Holiday and recent pictures

2011-03-23T13:09:00.000-07:00

We had the whole San Diego Taylor clan over to our home for THanksgiving desert. On one of Jake's days off recently we went up to Hollywood and went through the wax museum. It was fun and very quick.

Over it

2011-03-23T13:00:00.000-07:00

You know I really don't like to complain. I work hard to be positive and to have a positive out look in life. Today my battle with being positive is waning a lot. Jake is in his physician internship year and I am so over it. I'm over being in school as well. At least this week I have spring break. It is March 2011 and Jake is in his 9th month with 3 more months to go with this training year. I know it may not seem like much longer, and look how far he has come, but when you are in the throws of it, it is the longest damn year of your life. This is my perspective too, its even worse for Jake and the intensity he is going through. Talk about refiners fire. I miss seeing him. I barely get to spend an hour with him a day. He comes home after 12 hours, exhausted, eats diner and has to study and goes to bed. THen he gets up at 4:45 in the morning, before I get up and starts his day all over again. I think I'm tired of monotony right now. Its hard being a lone a lot when you're married. I really want to go on a vacation with Jake just for a few days to get away. He has a week off in April that can't come fast enough. We can't afford much. I don't know. I think I needed to get this off my chest cause even writing this down is helping me feel better. Two weeks ago Jake took his national board exam. He took the two days before off so he could get his final studies in. He was home for two day. I realized when he was home how much I really haven't been able to spend time with him much this year. Its a daunting realization, because spending time with him is my favorite thing in life. So what do I do now? I get off the computer and go for a run.

A Couple Blonde Moments

2011-02-22T16:33:00.000-08:00

So recently I have had a couple incidences of blondness. I'm laughing while I am writing this:) The first one was last month, I called my Brother and when he answered the phone "Hello" I said "Hi Mike its your sister Nancy." Mike goes"ah ya I know your my sister." I was so embarrassed and I totally laughed at my self. When he called me back He said "Hi its your brother Mike." Ha ha I will never be able to live this down:) It was a good chuckles.
Okay this is the dozy, Last week was a rather long (it won't get over fast enough sort of week) week. On Thursday I went to the Relief Society meeting at the church. They were having dinner and a guest speaker. So before I went over to the church I wanted to wear a skirt because I have been wearing workout/ lounge clothes A LOT lately, so I wanted to put a little more effort into looking presentable. So I got ready, picked up my friend Jen and headed to the church. I was sitting at the table mingling with friends, enjoying the delightful conversation when my shoulder itched. I reached to scratch it when I realized I forgot to put a bra on! LOL! Luckily I was wearing a cute decorative scarf that I could cover up my chest:) I went up to my friend Mindy and said I totally forgot to put a bra on. She said it was the funniest thing she had heard. We all filed into the next room for the guest speaker, which was fabulous, I totally was self conscious after the light bulb went on. After the meeting there were a few of us talking out in the hall and one of ladies was saying she was embarrassed about how she got hurt. I blurted out "talk about embarrassing, I forgot to put a bra on!" We all were busting out laughing! I was laughing sooo hard I was crying:) IT felt so good to laugh like that, I think it had been a while. It felt so good to laugh at my self! I take my self way to seriously, its GREAT to cut loose:) I probably seemed really immature to everyone, but I don't care I needed that so bad. LAUGH ON!!!!

Michigan Pride

2011-02-06T19:53:00.000-08:00

This commercial from the super bowl made me miss Michigan. Michigan is a hard working people place. People take pride in their work. To live there is not for wimps, because you never get use to the cold of the winter, the harshness of the lakes in the fall. October is my FAVORITE month of the year and that is because of the beauty I grew up with.

2011 Here We Come!

2011-01-13T19:23:00.000-08:00

Well we have some pretty exciting developments going on in our family! No I am not pregnant, but we are going to be moving at the beginning of July to Bremerton, Washington (West of Seattle across the Puget Sound)! We are so very excited. Here is what happened. We have been gearing up the last month for Jake to do a GMO tour for the next 2 years after he graduates from internship come July first. Tuesday Jake was home sleeping after being on call all night at the hospital. Around 2pm in the afternoon I returned home from running errands. Soon after I got home, Jake's pager went off(Which is very unusual for post call days). He was sleeping so I brought his phone and pager into him. It was his program director telling Jake to call him ASAP. Jake had many thing run through his head, the program director doesn't just make social calls, and the unwritten policy goes if the director doesn't talk to you then things are usually going good- "no news is good news." Anyways, Jake calls him back and the director tells him that a Residency spot has opened up at Naval Hospital Bremerton does he want it. Well that is a no brainer. He is going to be able to finish his residency instead of going off with the Marines for 2 years and then have to jump back into residency after. I mean what a MIRACLE! Jake went up to Bremerton in October 2009 for a month rotation and the program director remembered Jake (they hit it off) from when he was there. It is so funny to look back at the last couple of years to see how things have come together. WOW this is an extremely rare opportunity Jake has had placed before him. Also at the beginning of this last December (last month), Jake went and talked to his program director to tell him that he would like to go straight through residency if at all possible, even if that means he has to go to another program. He was told that that was not very likely, that the navy doesn't usually do that, but whatever now. The Hand of the Lord is truly in our lives! I'm so glad he can be safe out of Afghanistan while the troops are winding down the next couple of years. We feel sooooo very blessed and humbled right now:)

Don't get me wrong we have LOVED San Diego. We will definitely miss it here. We will miss being near family, and all the friends we have made. The WEATHER! Oh the Sun How I will miss thee:( I will miss Jazzercise and the beach with our walks. We will miss Coronado and La Jolla and Carlsbad. I will miss all the fruit and Henrys market. BUT I will not miss high way 5! No way- I will not miss the congestion! CHEERS! Heres to many new and exciting adventures in 2011!

Angel standing by

2010-12-07T21:12:00.000-08:00

I share this song today because it is one of the most beautiful and heart felt songs I have ever heard. I sang this song in a talent show 7 years ago with my roommate Kassie. It was a blast! we would have jam sessions in our apartment with her guitar and we would sing. I loved it!
I share this song today also as a reflection on an experience Jake shared with me that he had in the hospital on the OB deck. Here it goes as I tear up just thinking of it:
Today, Tuesday, a 22 year young woman came into the hospital 39 week pregnant, she was not in labor, but was able to deliver at any time. See earlier in the day she was at home. (I'm guessing this part, but since she was due at any time her mother was probably with her while her husband was deployed in Afghanistan.) While she was at home she had a knock on the door. There were a couple of men in their formal uniforms, coming to deliver the news that her beloved husband, a young Marine, was killed in Afghanistan. As plans were being made for his delivery and final resting place in Arlington Cemetery in Virginia, she was being induced into labor so she could then fly out to barry her husband who, she was not able to say good bye to before he departed this earth. While she is in the hospital giving birth, her mother is with her, but her husband's parents are on their way to Arlington to meet their son. My heart swells for her and my stomach sank as Jake told me of this experience. She is a 22 year old woman who is now a widow, a first time mother adjusting to this new role in life all alone while going through the grieving process. We have pored out many prayers this evening on her behalf. I pray that she will feel Angels around her to carry her through this time of sorrow and change as she is facing a new world and new roads to travel.
This has made me reflect on so much. The reality that Jake could go to Afghanistan at some point is real. I am grateful that Jake is in the medical cor of the Navy, but it just brought it home that our next couple of years are uncertain right now. Next week we find out if we are faced with possibly new adventures as Jake might be taking a hiatus from residency for a couple of years to fulfill Naval duties. This also makes me even more grateful, and I cling to it with dear life, grateful to be sealed in the Lord's Holy Temple to my beloved husband for time and throughout all eternity. He's not going to get rid of me that easy;D. I know Heavenly Father has a plan for us, and a plan for each of his children. Its comforting to know that He is in charge and knows the bigger picture. Families are eternal. There are 2 things we take with us through eternity- 1) relationships we have cultivated in this life, 2) al the knowledge we had acquired in this life. I wasn't planning on writing today, but this really made me think, and I went on you-tube to listen to this song and I wanted to share it. I hope this lullaby soothes the soul.

THE SWEET THINGS IN LIFE

2010-11-16T13:56:00.000-08:00

I am one that does not like having candy hanging around the house. It was Halloween though, we had to have a treat:) So on Halloween morning I got up and made my very first cake from scratch. YUM! It was a DARK CHOCOLATE CAKE with DARK CHOCOLATE FROSTING! I don't even like frosting, but this is my one exception:) OH my gosh, this was the best cake ever and it was even easier to make than those stupid box mixes. The cool thing is I use half all-purpose flour and half whole wheat flour. It turned out great! Gotta get your fiber in somewhere:)

I have decided that the next time I make this, when ever that is, I will have to do it as cup cakes:) Its always better as cupcakes! I'll show you whose cake boss:)

Making the Most of Jake's Free Weekends

2010-10-20T22:16:00.000-07:00

So a couple of weekends ago, well actually I think it was in September now, Jake had a Saturday off so we went and spent the afternoon at Sea World! We had lots of fun.

We saw some pretty cool things. Fat penguins, sharks, star fish, it was lots of fun!

Fun Little Tidbits

2010-09-12T20:27:00.000-07:00

I know my last post was a little bit of a rampage. Sometime you just have to get it out. Life has evened out a little bit. I am getting my wisdom teeth out October 15th. I'm not excited for it but glad to get it over with. I started karate over a month ago, but I am having to stop for... well I don't know when right now because of my having to pay for my wisdom teeth. You know I'm okay with that. Living on a budget teaches me really what is a need vs. a want. Its teaching me what needs to be priorities. So my first graduate class will be over next weekend. I'm glad that it is, I just hope I do alright. I'm not a very scholastic person so this is stretching me. I also have been out of school for 3 years, it is getting my brain back into gear.
I realized this last week that Jake and I have lived here for 5 months and we haven't taken any pictures, except a few from my phone. so we are going to have to work on that. Jake and I are big walkers. Everywhere that we have lived we have always had a path(s) or trail(s) that we go for walks on. We talk through lots of things and reconnect. Since we have been here we have struggled to find our walks. I know we have the beach, but sometimes it isn't convenient to drive and walk on the beach. Don't get me wrong- we love the beach. Sometime you just don't want to get sandy. Anyways, this weekend we finally found a couple of places to go for our walks and we are totally excited:) So this Christmas The Carlsbad Stake is putting on the Messiah. They got soloist and other musicians to be in the orchestra from the community, and members of the stake are going to be in the choir. I am going to be in the choir. I am really excited. I haven't been in a choir since high school and I think it will be fun and free:)

Since I have moved to California I have noticed my skin has been more dry. I use a couple different moisturizers, eye creams blah blah blah, I'm tired of using chemically based products and spending money on crap that doesn't work. I know I'm 30 and your skin tends to start getting dryer. So since I've been here I have thought about what is really good for me. I have been thinking lately about all the aromalogy I have learned and studied over the 11 years I've done massage. I look at aroma herbs with practical, purposes. They have properties that are for everyday use. I thought I would write down some of my natural beauty thoughts. I'm not a tree hugger or hippy, but I am trying to make healthy and economical changes in my life. I have at least for now, decided to stop dying my hair. I'm just tired of the maintenance and the chemicals. Besides I want to see my natural highlights come out now that I live in a more sunny place. Also I am not using the typical body lotion or face moisturizers. I wash my face still twice a day and 2-4 times a week I exfoliate with a scrub or Microderm scrub.
*For overall moisturizer, I use Sweat Almond oil. It is all natural with vitamin E. I use it on my face as well for a moisturizer
*Bergamot oil- natural deodorant, It is hard to find deodorant that is not an antiperspirant as well- antiperspirants have aluminum oxide in it that are not good for you.
*Lavender oil heals cuts and burns
*tea tree oil- naturally good for acne skin and a great disinfectant- put water and tea tree oil in stray bottle and use it in kitchens and bathrooms.
*cinnamon oil- natural appetite suppressant(also if you know anyone that smokes- it will kill nicotine taste), is a detoxifier
*Grapefruit oil- also natural appetite suppressant
*peppermint oil- great for stomach pain
*eucalyptus- great for chest congestion
foods:
*celery- great for heart burn- really good for pregnant women
*cucumbers- anti inflammatory
*vinegar- natural cleanser for windows and counters
*lemons- natural cleansers- acids cleanse, also good for bringing out highlights in your hair

Just another way to simplify my daily life:)

No Ordinary Life

2010-09-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

Jake and I have survived his month of ICU which is the worst internship month. Grueling 30 hour shifts every three days. It ended up being the worst month in years for having patients admitted to the ICU- over 70. Jake stayed down at the BOQ on Coronado Island so I would go down 3-4 times a week. It sucks driving back and forth every few days. I felt like I wasn't getting anything accomplished. I started my first graduate class this month too. Intercultural Communication. It makes for very dry reading, but great class discussion. I just feel like I'm slacking already with my class assignments.
I feel like I am in a nightmare where I am back as a teenager again in my life. I got glasses this month, I am meeting with a dentist this week to talk to him about getting my wisdom teeth out, and after that I am meeting with an orthodontist about getting invisilign braces to realign my bottom crooked teeth. I am also taking Karate classes a couple days a week. The whole getting my wisdom teeth out and getting the realignment done has made me angry and nervous. Angry because I spent 7 years growing up with several different appliances- one right after the other to correct my teeth so I wouldn't have to have them out, and because dental work is expensive. Nervous because I am 30 and getting your wisdom teeth out is more painful and traumatic the older you are. My teeth are all the way erupted, but the roots are fully formed and there are major nerves around where they are that could be affected by getting my wisdom teeth out. Nervous because I don't want more trauma in my life. I also found out today that for my masters I have to retake financial Accounting over again because the SECOND time I took it in my undergrad I got a C- instead of at least a C. I am so frustrated about that! IT freaking is going to cost more money and it sets me back a semester. Not to mention accounting really SUCKS!
Tonight I was laying in bed- I couldn't sleep, and I had a HUGE revelation. Amongst all my frustrations and anger and my- wow is me- attitude, I should be grateful to have the opportunity my life to further my education, to get the help I need with my teeth- wether it should have been 12 years ago or now- I should be more grateful for what I have been given and receive it humbly. Then I felt so terrible for being angry at a couple people from my past (that deal with my dental crap) that don't know I'm angry, and it truly wouldn't do any good for them to know anyways. I asked Heavenly Father to forgive me for being angry, and I started to cry. No one but Heavenly Father knew how angry or frustrated I have been- meaning the only person it was affecting was me. and that isn't good at any level. It made me realize the importance of the power of forgiveness and how real it is. Forgiving yourself and forgiving others. Then it made me think that if you have the faith to be healed, would you have the faith to let go of the aliment, and let the atonement of the Lord take it away. I know the last statement doesn't really go with much of what I have been saying- but it goes much deeper for me. A week and a half ago I went to do a session at the temple. I was staying down with Jake at Coronado and thought I would get up when he does and go do a session on my way back home since I was driving by it. during the session I was so tired I could barely keep my eyes open through the whole thing, but I did it, I was there. I was determined that even though it was the worst month of Jake's internship year that it was even more important that I go for our family. The session was so peaceful and calming. I didn't stay in the Celestial room long. As I was in my car leaving the temple. I was filled with the Spirit, I started to cry, I felt so grateful for the opportunity to be at the temple that day, so grateful to have the Gospel of Jesus Christ in my life. I know its true. So another experience I had this month was I also have been frustrated because I want to be a mom and it hasn't worked out yet, and now that I have started school again I don't want to give off the perception that I am putting off having children. I know its and internal battle and that no one really cares but me. Anyways, I asked Jake for a blessing, and in the blessing he said that Heavenly Father knows my desire to be a mother in zion, but the time is not yet, but it is on the horizon. That I am doing the right thing with school and I should keep supporting my husband through his training. It said some other things that are very special to me, not that it all isn't special. THat made me grateful for the Priesthood too. I feel so blessed in my life. I am learning lots of patients with myself in so MANY ways.

ON A FUNNY SIDE:
A funny thing about the beginning of the month, I went to an appointment to meet my family physician at Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton. It was pretty much a meet and greet sort of appointment to establish me with my doctor. So he was a nice, very professional man. I think he was in his early to mid 30's. I asked him if he was an intern- he said no I'm a 2nd year resident, okay. I asked him if he was an MD or a DO- he said he was a MD, I called him a traitor, just to joke around with him:) I had to joke about it cause Jake and my dad are both DO's. He said he checked into the hospital the same time Jake did so they kind of knew each other and since I was Jake's wife I would get VIP treatment. That made me feel very cool. He asked how JAke and I met and I told him went he came to MSU for med school. I asked him if he was married - he said he wasn't that he came close once. So after my appointment. I was talking to Jake on the phone that night and was telling him all about my appointment and that I had Dr. Baldwin. He didn't remember him right away, but I said that he checked into the hospital the same time he did, he said he knew you. OH the light went on and Jake remembered him. Jake said he is the one that was the Bachelor on the season of the Bachelor- Officer and a Gentleman. I said no he's not. Jake said he is look him up on the internet. Sure enough, my family doctor is the former Bachelor! LOL so funny:)

My Latest Up-Date

2010-07-11T21:21:00.000-07:00

So it has been a while since I have blogged last. Right when I got home from visiting Jake in Rhode Island, I got really sick- Jake lovingly gave me his nasty virus when I was out with him:P I was sick for about two weeks. Since Jake has been back, internship has taken off for him with crazy shifts, and the emotional/ mental realizations of what it takes to be a physician. For me I have been running around getting things situated for him/ and the house. I am the CEO of our house taking care of finances, majority of house work and such. It keeps me busy, but at the same time I feel complacent. I'm not used to not working, or being in school. I have worked since I was 16 years old. I have financially supported myself since I was 18 years old. I'm NOT down grading the importance of taking care of the home, this is really what I want to be doing. Home is the closest place to heaven next to the temple. Its just since I'm not home taking care of, or running after little children, I have lots of free time. I'm not used to that. I like/ and need structure. I like feeling productive and that I am contributing to society in a positive way. I like feeling that I am progressing and improving myself. THe economy sucks right now which has made it hard to even find a massage therapist position(I'm retiring from this). When I first started blogging after Jake left for ODS, I mentioned that I wanted to get my masters degree in acupuncture. I truly am interested in that, but I have changed my direction and feel splendid about it. I know this is the right move for me (even though I fight it and am very stubborn). I have decided to get my MSA- Master of Science in General Administration. Central Michigan University (CMU), where I got my Bachelors from, is a very big military supporting school actually has an extension campus out here at Camp Pendleton with this program. The MSA is a 36 credit masters program. I plan on completing it by December 2011. The great part about it is that if we end up moving next summer so Jake can complete his residency straight through, I can finish the last couple of courses on line and summit my final paper/ project online as well- or if I have to fly back to meet up with my adviser I can do that too. I am excited about it because It is way more flexible for out uncertain next few years. This masters will actually cost less than my bachelors (CMU had great tuition rates for military families:)). It just makes sense. I mean we don't have children yet so why wait. I don't know what doors or avenues this will bring or what I will be doing with it at this point, but I know it brings more options to me at this point in my life. Jake is super supportive. He feels its important for me to have my masters just to be prepared for what ever life brings in the future. I agree. I'm not much of a scholastic person- but I do love learning. I need this for me and my self confidence. I still am very interested in acupuncture, but at this point its not the schooling or job I should be pursuing. I also am really interested in working towards my black-belt in Karate. I have never taken a karate class. I have taken a few group exercise courses, but not many. There are many reasons I want to do karate- it is good self defense, kicks butt and gets you into shape, and I know it helps with self confidence. There are many reasons that I want to learn it but the last one is the one that I need the most. Its something I have been thinking about a lot lately and I know it will help me in so many avenues in my life. It may- actually I know it will take my quite a while to reach my black belt- but I will just keep going. I don't know what it is, but there is something in the Japanese culture- or way of thinking that I think is way beyond the rest of the world. I don't know, just lately acupuncture and karate have made so much sense to me and I just want to learn more of there philosophies on life.

I fasted today. It felt really good. I have a couple of inner struggles/ anxieties that I know I have to draw me closer to my Heavenly Father for strength and courage. It is true what the Book of Ether; Ether 12: 27, in the Book of Mormon talks about the Lord giving us weakness that we may be humble and to turn to Him that He can make us strong and turn us into the best persons we can be. It is true. The hardest part is admitting to our selves that we have weaknesses. It is embarrassing to admit that we have struggles. I think that if we can get past the inner embarrassment and own our struggles and turn to the Lord for strength, then I think that is when the tides start to turn. I don't know - I could be completely wrong- its just how I perceive it. Something else I have come to realize lately is that true forgiveness of others can only be achieved with help from the Holy Ghost. I don't know the formula for it but what I do know in my limited mortal comprehension is that forgiveness is beyond human comprehension. It is a great power and gift that Heavenly Father has given us. I feel like I haven't tapped into this gift nearly enough in my life and I need to use it way more frequently than I really thought I needed to. Its is freeing.

Personal Goals:

Hopefully become parents to a couple of precious healthy spirits:) (preferably way before I'm 40:P)

Spiritual

1) Read and Finish The Old Testament

2) Go to temple once a month

3) read through standard works in a year- follow page schedule. (yearly)

Mental

1) finish MSA by December 2011

2) get an internship during school

3) help Jake accomplish his professional career goals

4) relearn the guitar and become efficient

Physical

1) Work towards and achieve Black belt in Karate

2) Train and run a marathon by 40 years old

3) train and complete a triathlon by age 40

4) become a yoga instructor

5)learn Ti- chi

A Taste of the East

2010-06-24T19:46:00.000-07:00

So last weekend I went out to Rhode Island to visit Jake on his leave weekend.

The Seas of Life

2010-06-04T21:11:00.000-07:00

So today I went for a lovely walk on the beach. It was a date between me, the sand, and the ocean. We had some things to discuss. Its funny, but when you are at the beach you can't help but to be completely in the moment, throwing out all the stress and cares you face every day. All you can hear and feel are the waves crashing on the sandy/ rocky shore. In those moments you realize how much those life issues REALLY don't matter in the grand scheme of things. Its like every time a wave reaches the shore and touches you it grabs a little bit of each stresser and takes it back out to the sea to take it away. By the time you go far enough to feel there is nothing left to bother you, its time to turn back and go home to your safe haven from the world. The shore has lots of treasures to be admired.

I don't want this to sound clichéish because it seems like the beach and water are always used as a simile and/ or a metaphor for life. I totally see how it is like life though, I thought about it on my walk. Some beaches are flat, some are hilly. Some have really soft sand, some are so course you might as well be walking on a brillow pad. Some beaches are rocky, some are grassy. Some are as open and go on as far as the eyes can see. Some have clear skies with not a cloud to be found, others are full of storms that role in off the sea. Some beaches are full of seagull poop, and others have cute little birds that the waves chase. Anyways, what it boils down to is there are lots of different beaches with their own stories, but the point is they are there. There will always be beaches with their own stories.

Last night I had a great chat with my sister Karen. I am so grateful for my sisters. We were discussing how these days women have so many more options in life to choose from. In some ways its a great blessing and in some ways it can be distracting from our focus in life. IT really is about faith, lessons in faith. Fear and faith can not simultaneously be in your heart and mind. No man can serve two masters. Fear and faith come from opposite places, like ying & yang. Anyways, Karen was straight forward with me and made me think about things in ways I haven't before.

Since I have been here in San Diego, people have asked me if I like it here, if I miss Michigan, that sort of thing. I have to say there are things I miss about Michigan, but I was ready to leave. I'm not saying that I like California better- I just got here- but I like being here because I can have my own identity. I am grateful for ALL my life experiences, they have made me into who I am today, but I have things that I am glad to leave back in Michigan, that I don't have to think about on a regular basis. You know, I can't even compare the two, CA and MI, they are soo different. They both have their own beauties. Michigan is definitely more rugged, and California is... I don't know yet.

My Gratitude List

2010-06-02T20:58:00.000-07:00

I am Grateful for:

My health
My Husband
My Family
Having a safe home
The Priesthood Authority
The Atonement of Jesus Christ
My education
Music- singing, piano, guitar
The five senses
The beach
Having sun shine every day
living in the USA
The Temples
beautiful flowers
being able to have running water & a flushing toilet & shower
The scriptures
The telephone
my cute cat
pretty sparkly jewelry
for yummy food
having a brain for reasoning and a heart for compassion
being able to serve a mission
Computers to write my thoughts down
Great Friends throughout my life
My husband haning a great job
our reliable cars
being able to read & write
being able to walk the calming beach
movies that make me laugh
my heritage & those in my family that have gone before. I think it is interesting to learn about them
money to live on
having a Sunday calling at this point in my life
the principles of Tithing, Fasting, and Prayer
Having a living Prophet and Apostles on the Earth today
yoga & running- I don't do either enough
Smiles and hugs
rain and wonderful thunder storms
being married in the temple
having a dish washer and garbage disposal
hobbies- even though I really don't know what they are right now
for cooking it is so much fun
positive attitudes, and kind words
sleep- makes me feel so good
exercise- it helps clear my head
colors and art and design- gives life dimensions
good listeners
my life experiences
books that capture me
THe Gift of the Holy Ghost to help make decisions
dancing and how free it makes you feel
THat I got to see some of my family this year

These are a few of the things I am grateful for in my life. I know there are more- I will just have to keep adding to my list. Good night.

Memorial Weekend

2010-05-29T20:28:00.000-07:00

This weekend is Memorial Weekend. This one is particularly special to me because my wonderful Jacob has gone active duty in the Navy. My Lieutenant is at Officer Development School for five weeks getting no sleep, learning military protocol, and learning how important his roll is in the functioning of the military. I don't like being away from my best friend, but I know his courage and his heart is doing the duty he is supposed to do. There is more honor and respect that comes from serving your country and putting your life on the line for a greater cause than even our frail minds can comprehend. I believe true patriotism is found in those that serve our country in the military, leaving the comforts of family and home, and putting their lives on the line for millions who they don't even know. Let it be written in the books that THEY are our TRUE HEROES. Forget athletes and superstars- really what have they really done to contribute to our society? Give me a break. Forget Politicians, for they are only out for THEIR own interests and not for the true welfare of the citizens on the United States of America. My head bows to those families who sacrifice being with their servicemen/ women. I am humbled by the courage of those who fight for our comforts we take for granted daily. May we all live to deserve their selfless service. May we all thank and honor them when they return home, and give them the support they deserve on their return. Thank you my sweet love for your service. You are my Officer That I anxiously await your return home. Know that you are loved and missed here. That there is an emptiness when you are gone.

Much Love.

A Little Ditty

2010-05-26T21:52:00.000-07:00

So I just watched the season finally of American Idol. I don't care who wins this show, just another person on the radio I have know idea who they are, but I think the last show is ALWAYS the best because of the musicians they get to come out and perform. I could go the whole season not paying attention the the contestants, but the last night I will watch. I think this was the best last show ever. They had Janet Jackson, Christina Agulara, The Bee Gees, Chicago, Brett Michaels, Alanis Morset, and some others- It was amazing! Thats all I can say.

So I wasn't going to just blog about American Idol. Lately I have been pondering about what my role and purpose is in my family. What can I bring to the table? I have been thinking about Talents & Gifts, more particularly Gifts of the Spirit. Growing up, what was valued in my parents home was work and school. The things I value highest in my life is my family, my relationship with God, my health and fitness, and my education. I have been thinking about what hobbies I have. I know I'm not crafty(really doesn't interest me), or into scrap-booking. If I had the means I would probably get into woodworking- refinishing furniture. I have a goal of running a marathon and doing a triathlon. I want to get a masters in acupuncture. I want to be a scriptorian. I hope to have children, but I am not going to sit by waiting, watching my life go by when I could be progressing and developing myself. ITs hard though because its such an innate part of being a woman. I don't feel like I should have to justify myself to ANYONE. I think these are all righteous pursuits. I used to take voice and piano lessons, but I haven't done anything much with that in like twelve years, I haven't had regular means to keep up with those abilities. SO I wonder sometimes how they play in my life, though I LOVE music. Sometimes I wonder, (just in self assessment), am I a good wife? Will I be a good mother? As a woman, I think it is easy to be drowned/ clouded/ persuaded by life around me. So with all these interests or pursuits, what are Gifts of the Spirit I possess and how do I recognize them and mesh all these things in my life together? I know they are life long pursuit, but I am working on it trying to keep my eternal goal at point. Good Night

30 and life keeps going on

2010-05-23T21:08:00.000-07:00

Jake left for Officer Development School (ODS) in Rhode Island yesterday. I have decided to take each day he is gone and write my thoughts and feelings out. Some days it might be only a line or two, but I think it will be good for me. I'm terrible at journaling, it has been a long time, but for some reason I feel it is important for me to write, right now. So here I go...

So Jake and I have been married for 3 years, May 5, 2007 was when we got married. We got married the week he had off from school between his 1st and 2nd years. Everything just seemed to fall into place and since we have been married, it seems as though time has only accelerated. I finished my undergrad degree the December 2007. When we moved to Grand Rapids after one year of marriage, I was blessed to find a job at a chiropractors office not far from where we lived. I feel as though I was on borrowed time doing massage. See I have been doing massage for 10 years and I am feeling a little tired of the physical stress on me. I truly do enjoy giving massages, but as my only trade/ or source of income, it makes me tired- I don't want my body to be shot before I'm 40 years old. Anyways, it has been a blessing in my life. Jake has diligently worked so hard before, during, and now after he finished school. A wife could not be more proud of her husband. I love him very much. We complete each other. It was great to celebrate his triumph of finishing Medical school. It put closer on our time in Michigan. Now we have braved the move out to Carlsbad, California and are setting up shop in this lovely place. I feel so fortunate to be able to live here. Because it is so expensive to live, we figure if it wasn't for the Navy we won't be living here. It feels so refreshing to be here.

The start to this year was brutal. I/ we do not want to ever repeat the first three months. In January Jake had to retake his PE Board exam in Philadelphia, I miss carried at 11 weeks along, and Jake had some other stresses from the rotation he was on that particular month. February and March was just hard waiting for the test results and doctors appointments and just whatever came our way. Now that we are here in CA we have been able to truly let down from the stress and really relax- walking the beach seeing things around town. Oh ya we were in the audience of the Price is Right show. That was totally fun!

Now that "real life" has started, our vacation is over, with Jake going off to ODS and his Navy Medical carrier starts, I have some major decisions to make...

After we moved here I met with our stake employment specialist to receive help with finding a job and get some ideas. I was thinking I want to get out of massage and move to something else. He informed me with my resume being totally massage, that I really should be looking for massage. I was totally DEflated and felt very limited. So what do I do about working? What am I going to do with my life? Starting out the year I was prego so I didn't think I was going to be looking for work and I knew what I was going to be doing with my life... I was going to be the CEO of our house hold. Anyways, things change, here I am I need to really start looking for a job now. Also I am thinking of going back to graduate school. WOW, I have finally figured out what I want to do graduate school in, Acupuncture is what I want to do. There is the best, and most rigorous school in the country here in San Diego. I am really excited about it, but I have a couple of reservations about it too. 1- The program is 3 years and 8 months, with Jake's military commitment of 3 years here, I worry about moving before I finish school. 2- I worry about with Jake being in his internship year that it might be to much stress for us (and after the stress of the last three years, I don't know if that is best for our family- but it is only 12 credits a semester instead of 24 like Jake). 3- I worry about having kids. Lets face it I'm 30 years old. I have always thought I would have a child or two at this point in my life. Just goes to show that I am not in control and Heavenly Father knows best. But with that I would rather be in school and then have a baby, then have kids and go back to school. I just think the later would be harder- though both would be hard. I feel like all my schooling to this point has led me to acupuncture school. This would complete my schooling experience, and it would give me a sense of accomplishment and confidence that I haven't ever had. I never start something that I don't finish, so if I do this I want to finish it. With that said, my family comes first so if this isn't the right thing for me to do right now I won't do it. This is such a huge leap of FAITH.

Jake's Graduation and Navy Commission

2010-05-12T20:53:00.000-07:00

Last week was a very special week for us! Jake graduated from Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medical School. I am so proud of him. It has been an intense 4 year that at times felt unbearable. I know that our Loving Heavenly Father guided and carried us through those faith building years. I am humbly grateful for that, and so much more. Jake's Commencement and festivities were so much fun last week. On May 5th it was our 3 year anniversary also! Jake was commissioned a Navy Lieutenant. He looks so hot in his uniform!

Weekend Run Away

2010-01-31T14:53:00.000-08:00

So it is 2010 now. Jake and I both turn 30 this year and are looking forward to our new adventures that are ahead of us, Jake graduating from Medical School, Jake going active duty in the Navy and moving to San Diego. We have had a little stress starting off the year so last weekend we ran away to Chicago. Jake has never been to the city and I have wanted to take him there before we move west. We had so much fun! We went to the Field Museum, Shed Aquarium, and the Chicago Institute of Art. It was a power packed weekend, but we were so cagey sitting at home during this gray Michigan winter that we wanted to see some really cool things.

Christmas Time!!

2009-12-01T15:34:00.000-08:00

I wanted to post a few recent pictures of our Christmas tree and our little village. Also a few picture of our Bobbi the bobcat now as a little lion. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!!

2009-10-25T18:18:00.000-07:00

A Seatle Weekend

2009-10-22T17:08:00.000-07:00

Jake has been out in Bremerton, WA for the last 3 weeks. So this last weekend I flew out to visit him. Jake's parents met up with us there. It was a fun weekend. Friday we went out to diner at this local place right on the water. We were sitting there looking out the window at the racing waters when a bald eagle came and pirched himself right on the dock at the restuarant. We were mezmorized by his beauty. He stayed there for 5-10 minutes and then flew out of site. My thought was how many places in the world would that really happen? We also went to desporation point between 2 islands. The view was incredible and the drop was knee locking.

Super Duper Salsa Recipe!

2009-09-06T16:07:00.000-07:00

So for the last 6 years I have been making fresh salsa and loving every minute of it! I have finally perfected it. I should have it Patten(just kidding!) but instead I thought I would share it. I don't know how to make small batches of it, but I have frozen it till I want more and that has worked.
Here is my recipe:

10-12 Roma tomatoes
1/2 Onion
3 jalapeno peppers (put as many pepper seeds in to your taste- more seeds the hotter)
Fresh cilantro- as much as you like
1/2 a lime, juice
lemon juice- to taste
1/4 t. black pepper
1/4-1/2 t. salt
1/2 t. vinigar
1 little can tomato paste (heat in microwave safe bowl for 1 minute)

Use food processor or blender to puree to your desired consistantly. Yummy Yummy Yummy!!!

Jake and I at Del Mar beach San Diego, CA

2009-09-01T11:22:00.000-07:00

Getting Started

2009-09-01T10:26:00.000-07:00

So I'm new at this blogging thing, but I thought it would be fun to write a little about Jake and my happenings. We currently are living in Grand Rapids, MI where Jake is finishing his 3rd and 4th years of medical school with MSU at Metro Health Hospital. While he is bound to the books and hospital I was asked to be the Relief Society Presidency in the Wyoming Ward and I worked full time at Chiropractic First as a Massage Therapist. I can't believe I have been doing massage for 10 years now. I have met so many incredible people over the years. Jake is going through school with the Navy. He graduates from school May 2010. After which we will be doing his internship and residency in a naval hospital. I think I should be getting a diploma along with my husband when he graduates because I went through it too:) Cheers! Here's to future posts and love to all my family and friends!