DAWSON FAMILY DETAILS

Going Private

2011-10-06T01:29:00.003-04:00

Hello! I really do want to start blogging again. However I am definitely going private. Please email me if you want to stop back by the blog!

Fortuna California

2011-02-02T22:06:00.008-05:00

We made it! The reason for my lack of blog updates, is that I have been too busy! We left Philly on December 24th. The hospital paid for a moving company to pack up all of our belongings and ship them to California! After 7 moves in the past 7 1/2 years- this was the way to go! We spent Christmas in Utah-loved seeing our families. I flew out with Casyn to California the 1st week of January while Brent was busy studying for boards. I spent a week alone staying with new friends and fixing up our interesting rental house (it was disgusting -so with the help of my new friend we did some MAJOR painting etc...) Brent and Aubrie arrived- our stuff was a week late (yuck). Then we unpacked and less than a week later-Brent's mom passed away. We had quite an adventures road trip in our new Honda Pilot (LOVE IT). The funeral went well and 4 days later we were back on the road in time for Brent to start his new job the next morning at 8 a.m.! Whew! It makes me tired just writing this! We are getting settled in (more stories to follow...) I just wanted to get a few pictures up of where we live!
This is main street.

Charcoal Grey Honda Pilot

The front of our rental house-complete with the treehouse Brent has always promised he would build Aubrie!

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Local playground-the whole city is surrounded by redwood trees. Truly amazing!

Christmas

2011-02-02T21:56:00.002-05:00

Graduation

2011-02-02T21:48:00.002-05:00

What a wonderful, long awaited day! Had to get this shot of the city...
Yeah Daddy!

We are SO proud!

Decision

2010-12-02T10:09:00.003-05:00

Our decision has been made- we are moving to California! I will be busy packing, running errands, visiting friends, Christmas shopping, and trying not to be too overwhelmed this month. Yes-we are moving before Christmas. Brent is busy studying for Boards on the 21st. Please pray for him and all that he has going on right now. I also wanted to post some fun pictures:

Casyn's bib says I love my big sister- and he does! These two really do have a bond!
I was in the kitchen, Casyn was crying and I told Aubrie to go play with him. A few minutes later he was GIGGLING! She put all of his toys around him and was singing to him. SO PRECIOUS!

This is my favorite fall shot at Gorgas park!

Just because I am busy-doesn't mean that I don't have time to make yummy pumpkin bread!

Trip to Vermont!

2010-11-26T22:06:00.003-05:00

Last weekend we headed to Vermont, for another job interview. It was beautiful there!

Here is a shot of one of the many airplane rides(4 to be exact) we took in 4 days. This one is the way home-when they BOTH fell asleep at the same time!

This is on the upper level of the Burlington Airport. New England rocking chairs to relax in and watch the planes!

I had to get a shot of our good traveler - getting changed here in our hotel.

This is Lake Champlain. It was enormous, breath taking, and as you can see VERY cold!

This was my favorite part of the trip. Getting to see our good friends the Culbertson's while we were in Saint Albans. They were the BEST host and hostess ever-taking us on tours and to this adorable family restaurant in Burlington.

Trip to California!

2010-11-11T17:19:00.006-05:00

What a weekend! We visited the town of Fortuna California (The friendly city). Brent had his first interview. Lets just say we were totally wined and dined. They pretty much sold us on this place. It is a tiny town population just under 11,000. Brent said he felt like the doctor on Arachnaphobia. Everyone knew who he was and why he was there. At the grocery store, the cashier asked me if I was visiting!;)

We first flew to San Francisco. From there we were waiting at the airport to fly to McKinley. We noticed our tickets said aisle 10 - so we were thinking -cool we will be at the front. Then they announced now boarding. Not zone 1 or 2 but ALL seats. This is a picture of the small plane. There were only 10 rows on the whole plane! Scary!

Brent has a friend living there- they took us to Trinidad (about an hour away) it was breathtaking.

Here is a picture of the cabin we stayed at. Complete with hottub, woodburning stove, full kitchen, greenhouse, 2 bedrooms etc... etc... it was beautiful! The entire thing had mint green tiles on the floor and long slanted wood ceilings. When we arrived there was a huge gift basket
on the kitchen table welcoming us to the Redwoods Hospital!

Little Casyn was such a GOOD baby. Here he is holding some United wings in his hand. This is the 2nd cross country trip he has taken and he is just shy of 5 months! Poor Aubrie had to stay home. We sure missed her!

Here we are at the beach. This one is only about 20 minutes from Fortuna.

We had a wonderful trip. It felt more like a vacation than an interview. Next week we are headed to Vermont. I am so excited to see it and have something to compare California with.We will hopefully know where we are moving by December- Yeah!

Trip to Utah!

2010-10-26T22:02:00.003-04:00

We had SUCH a great trip.It was fantastic to see so many of our family and friends and FINALLY introduce everyone to Casyn! Shenell's wedding went well and my family was so great for inviting me over for dinners and watching my kids (Mom!).

Grandma Dawson

Shenell, Ryan, Hayden, Aubrie
My "favorite" niece & nephew. Over the years I have taken this picture pose with these 2. How did they get so big?!

Aubrie LOVED being with her cousins-she misses them desperately!

Even Casyn had a good time!

Everyone thank you so much- it was a much needed visit.

September Happenings

2010-10-03T10:25:00.003-04:00

Aubrie started Pre-k at Shawmont Elementary. She is there every weekday. Some days until 3 p.m. They feed her breakfast, lunch and a snack-(my favorite part). They have dressups there (Aubrie's favorite part!)
Casyn still doesn't like his carseat;)

Brent finished his preceptorship in ER

We are on a countdown here at our house. Brent has only 60 days left until he is done with school. Then it will be time for studying for boards and amidst all this we need to decide where we should move. Exciting and scary- but mostly exciting!

Schuylkill River

2010-08-25T18:08:00.003-04:00

We had quite the adventure Saturday night. We were just out for a leisurely stroll by the Schulykill river here in Philly- we wanted to show Casyn one of our favorite walks.

We did our usual feeding the geese. These were all in the water- after one drop of bread was thrown they swarmed us. Aubrie was totally freaked!

Here are my 2 cute kids! We were packing up to leave and decided to stop and feed Casyn before we headed home. THEN someone starts yelling- drowning- call 911. I look at Brent and say, "Well you better go" he does and it was so neat. He totally helped save this lady from drowning. Within minutes about 10 police cars show up, life flight is above us, a firetruck and ambulance. I just stood there( from a distance) trying my best to stay out of the way and answer Aubrie's questions as well as rubberneck with the locals. Crazy stuff. All I have to say is Brent is amazing- he wasn't even flustered by it and just got in the car and drove us home. Wow!

26 Days

2010-07-14T14:28:00.003-04:00

This is what I have been devoted to for the last 26 days!!!

He is here!

2010-06-22T17:48:00.004-04:00

Casyn Joseph is here! We had a rough time getting him here, complete with some scares- but he is here and ADORABLE! He came Saturday morning(the 19th- at 9:30 a.m.) Lucky for me 10 days early!
His measurements are EXACTLY the same as Aubrie's were. 7 pounds 12 ounces. 19 1/2 inches long. All the nurses and staff were in disbelief when we told them. I will include his birthstory and pictures soon.

The Last Month

2010-06-12T22:07:00.009-04:00

Recently a few of my friends were giving me a hard time about not updating my blog. Well all I could think about writing is about my last month pregnancy symptoms. How my flip flops are now tight, how I pass out everyday about 2 pm, everytime I drop something on the floor I want to scream... I must admit that my least favorite thing about this stage is the comments from people. I have had some real bad ones. Some lady told me her daughter was due the same time I was but, was a lot smaller than me & was having a 7 pound baby. Another said she weighed 200 lbs. at this stage but HERS was only water weight. Today some guy asked me if I could get my daughter to push me in the grocery cart because I was so big. Um- gee thanks?!

Oh this will be over soon....
We really are so grateful to be having another one and are incredibly anxious to make sure that he is okay.

Actually, I have been having a lot of fun with Aubrie this month. We have tried to get out a lot and play before this new little one gets here.

Aubrie's last day of preschool picnic.

Our zoo pass just expired- sad- but this display is entirely made of legos!

Visit from family!

This park really has nothing but benches, grass, and this turtle but Aubrie loves it!

Room

2010-05-21T13:34:00.002-04:00

Aubrie wants to know HOW we are going to fit her brothers crib and new clothes in her room?!

Hershey

2010-05-11T18:28:00.004-04:00

This nice size bar cost a mere $39.95

We spent Saturday in Hershey, PA. It was a quick 2 hour drive and the whole place smells like chocolate! The streetlights on Chocolate Ave. are hershey kisses and with Aubrie's sweet tooth she was in heaven. We had a great time on the great American chocolate tour followed by spending money on crazy good candy in the HUGE gift shop, and finally a swell lunch at a cute little cafe in the museum. Such a fun day!

Easter

2010-04-11T21:26:00.007-04:00

In March we had a blast in Utah. We celebrated Aubrie's 4th Birthday and got to catch up with lots of family and friends, (so fun)! Easter was wonderful with conference (although I must admit I felt a little strange NOT going to church on Easter), the day before we had a great Easter egg hunt organized by some friends in our ward at a local playground. I'm not sure if Aubrie had more fun running around the playground or hunting for eggs! Aubrie greeted us at 6a.m. with the news that, yes the Easter Bunny had come. I went downstairs with her, admired all "the goods" and then she helped me hide jelly beans for a living room egg hunt while Dad caught a few more minutes of sleep. It was cute, she hid about 10 in a cupboard and then as soon as the hunt started she dashed for that cupboard. BTW Dad did not win the prize for the most candy found - Aubrie did and here is her chocolate bunny reward! Then as soon as breakfast and all the fun was over I went back to bed until conference!

Snow Days & Aubrie is Getting a Brother

2010-02-20T16:30:00.004-05:00

We are all shocked by the news of.... our new family addition will be a boy! Luckily I was able to make it to the hospital for that appointment, but church, work, school, pretty much everything else has been cancelled or postponed around here for the last few weeks. We have had one snow storm after another. I know I made fun of Philly in December for freaking out over snow, but even us local Utahn's must admit these latest storms have been BAD. In one night and a day we got 28 inches of snow, and it was a TOTAL blizzard outside. The average time of digging out your car here was 1 1/2 hours. The main problem is there is no where to put the snow. Plows sometimes come through and push the snow into parking spots, which has created fights over spots, nasty notes for taking people spots, and my personal favorite- saving your spot with a table or chair. (We laughed at first, but of course joined in). Here are some pictures of playing in the snow and my favorite part- the hot chocolate after!

20 WEEKS!!!

2010-02-02T17:01:00.003-05:00

Yes! I have made it halfway through this pregnancy, which has been SO very different when I was pregnant with Aubrie. I just wanted to announce that my ultrasound is scheduled for Friday and I am DYING to find out. Aubrie is certain it is a girl, Brent says he doesn't care either way, I must admit I would love another little girl to make bows for and play dress up. I feel so incredibly blessed and for some reason most of my other cares are on the backburner. People keep asking me if I am counting down to Dec. for when Brent will be done with school and honestly this little one is all that matters to me right now. I am thrilled. Having said all of that, I want to know your guesses. BOY or GIRL?????????????????????

Christmas in Philly!!!

2009-12-22T19:34:00.002-05:00

After 2 cancelled flights we decided to stay in Philly for Christmas. Neither Brent nor I had the heart to tell Aubrie about not getting to see Grandma for a long time yesterday... Poor kid! We have been trying to keep her busy ever since. Today was such a fun day. We took the bus into Center City. First we saw Christmas Village shops, stopped at Reading Terminal for lunch (yummy!) then we went to Macy's. I'm pretty sure it is the biggest one in the nation? Anyway they have the neatest light show, A Christmas Carol Village, Santa, and then we headed to the Comcast center which does have the biggest TV screen in the nation (it is also the tallest building in Philadelphia) they had a 3D Christmas show. That was Brent's favorite. My favorite was the light show in Macy's and Aubrie said her favorite was the "scary part in Dicken's A Christmas Carol". What a perfect day and the best part- all the shows were free!!!

2009-12-20T12:30:00.003-05:00

This Halloween Aubrie decided that she was going to be Snow White. So we found a Snow White dress and all of the other items that make Snow White who she is (i.e. red bow, red slippers, etc...) As you can imagine, we watched Snow White the movie over a dozen times. After one of these occasions, Aubrie decided that she was going to act out the near ending seen where Snow White eats the apple and falls. Fortunately, Julie was close by with the camera and grabbed a snap shot just as the seen ended. We are proud to present to you the blond Snow White in action.

2009-12-20T12:20:00.004-05:00

I was just about to say that I love Philadelphia because of the weather, but that statement has been redacted. With our 20 inch snow storm that we just had, my flight has been canceled and we have missed my wives family party. I am continually amazed at how this city shuts down when ever it snows. One of these days Philadelphian's will have to get used to snow. They shut down the airport and people drive like they are on pain killers (HULK SMASH!!!!!!!). Julie thinks that I am being negative. I suppose she is right. I just get a little frustrated some times. Other than that, Julie is 3 months pregnant, I am a year away from graduating PA school and we got a Nintendo wii for Christmas. I guess things are pretty good. Merry Christmas everyone!

Brent's White Coat Ceremony

2009-10-18T22:23:00.002-04:00

This was such an exciting day for Brent. I was SO proud. He has made it through his first year! No more classes!!! (And I must note that he looks super HOT in that white coat!) Bad shot- but here he is getting the coat after they called his name.

I have about 10 pictures of Aubrie slowly losing it throughout the ceremony. You churchgoers know what it is like in Sacrament Meeting when the speaker starts to go over 10 min, then 20 and the noise starts to get louder and louder and the kids just can't take it? That was Aubrie that night. She just lost it- shoes off and she started running circles, ran down the hall..

And here is Brent reprimanding and MAKING her (heaven forbid) put her shoes back on.

It was really fun to meet all the staff I have been hearing about and Brent- I am SO proud of you!

Rain Storms

2009-10-18T22:18:00.003-04:00

One of the things that we are amazed at out here are the rain storms. When it rains it pours- that is definitely an expression that must have been started here. One minute it starts and the next you are soaked. One day Aubrie and I got caught in a rainstorm and we were SO wet there really wasn't anything to do but laugh. It was hilarious. These pictures are from just 1 of the summer rain storms here.

Update

2009-10-18T22:07:00.003-04:00

Shocked that I am finally updating? (I'm not sure if I have any followers still...not that I blame you.) I do have some good excuses but there really isn't one for not keeping in touch with friends. Here are a few pictures of recent events.

I turned 30- gasp I know. Here is my darling daughter on my lap with me admiring my favorite flowers from my good friend. Later that day my BFF Amanda threw me and Kay a dual party- it was rockin'!!!

Here is Aubrie being Aubrie at the Aquarium in Camden, NJ. It was amazing, I got to touch a shark! We had a great time. (thanks Kim!)

I had to include a picture of Aubrie on her new bike. This is pretty much what we did ALL summer. "I want to go outside!!!" starting at about 7 a.m. This was definitely a time when I missed "The U Village" and being able to head out front to the playground!

Country Music

2009-06-16T08:00:00.002-04:00

Amongst our busy packing we had a fun weekend. On Saturday we went to the "Philadelphia's Country Music Station Anniversary Show" it was a blast. For any of you that know me, country music is so not my thing.I went for Brent (his birthday is this week),but really it was so fun. Our nice neighbor works at the station and got us great seats. We arrived just in time to see Kelli Pickler - she was adorable and running around the station in barefeet. Aubrie only wanted to be clapping on Brent's shoulders.Next was Zac Brown... this is where it got interesting. Aubrie started "head banging" no joke- full out spinning here hair etc... I did not teach her this - but it was hilarious. People were all dying because she is also spinning and dancing in circles. SO sad I couldn't bring my video camera in! We were going to stay for Phil Vasser & Big and Rich but about this point 7:30 p.m Aubrie's energy was gone and she was out! Such a fun day!

Busy Month

2009-06-10T13:24:00.004-04:00

We have a very busy month-poor Brent is in the middle of finals this week. Tonight will be his 3rd night of no sleep! He has been practicing for orals on Aubrie and I - (anyone in Med school will understand) anyway she is getting really good at doing exams herself. She makes us sit while she checks reflexes, listens to us breath etc.. Here she is with a baby at the PTM she marches in, grabs the stethescope, and knows what to do!
Next week we are moving, Brent's family is visiting, and then Aubrie and I are flying home on the 22nd. We will be there until the 1st. If you live in Utah and are reading this I sure hope I get a phone call to set something up, so that I can see everyone. Yeah I am so excited. Thank you Mom and Dad for the tickets home!!!

Moving date

2009-05-28T09:11:00.002-04:00

We are moving AGAIN. We have our move date- it is June 20th. That means we have a little less than a month to pack it all up again. I am really tired of moving (5 times in the last 6 years- with more in store...) We are moving about 2 miles down the road. Still in Philadelphia but on the outskirts in the township of Andorra. Am I crazy you may ask? Yes, but we will be saving at least $300 dollars a month in rent, plus I am sick of the problems this old house has had.(MICE)We are sad about having to change wards, and we will be in a tiny 2 bedroom townhouse (not unlike the University Village) oh well just another year a half....
Wish us luck!!!

The Nations First Zoo

2009-05-24T19:48:00.002-04:00

We bought a zoo pass!!! This place is AMAZING- it is huge. We went to the Philadelphia zoo on Saturday and were there about 2 hours. We only saw maybe half of it. We looked at a few animals, but mainly just took Aubrie on the rides. On one of the rides, I sent Brent a text that said, I bet you never would have dreamed you would ever spend 30 minutes in line waiting for a walk around a circle on a horse huh? (He grew up cattle ranching). It was funny-but Aubrie loved it. Now you all know where we will be every week for the next year...

Mount Vernon

2009-05-12T19:22:00.005-04:00

Yesterday Aubrie and I went with Kristi and her boyfriend Carleton to Mt. Vernon. Home of George Washington. It was so amazing. The history lesson was incredible. The mansion lies right out by the Potamic River. Kristi and Carleton took Aubrie a good portion of the day for me while I went on tours. As you can see by the above picture of her sleeping at the restaurant, they did a good job of wearing her out! There are several things to do there including a museum - this is where Aubrie got to "dress like Martha Washington" a tour of the Mansion- past the actual master suite where Washington died! It needs to be noted here that on the tour Aubrie got a little too close to one of the rooms and much to the tour guides dismay, she set off the alarm! I really enjoyed the slave tour and seeing Washingtons tomb and learning SO much history. It was so humbling to stand on the lawns of this place and think of the people that used to live here and the lives they lived. SO AMAZING! Thank you Kristi!!!

Please Touch Museum

2009-05-08T09:15:00.004-04:00

I bought a pass to this amazing museum here called, The Please Touch Museum. My friend Kay told me I needed to buy a pass and she was definitely right! We go here about once a week. These pictures do not do it justice. There is everything here. It is about five times larger than the children's museum in Salt Lake. Pictured with Aubrie is her cute little friend Marley in the craft room. Aubrie and I are in a pretend bus, there is a huge Alice in Wonderland playland with dress ups, a children's hospital where the kids play doctor with babies, a grocery store, rides, carousel, water play, basically any thing you can imagine and then some... fun stuff, especially since it has been raining here for the past week- and when it rains here- wow- there has been flood watches all around the area. Crazy!

Saturday

2009-04-29T20:15:00.003-04:00

This past weekend is always a hard time of the year for me.. (My family understands) Anyway Brent being the sweetheart that he is took me out for a wonderful day.

Here we are driving past Dawson street- (this street is down the road from us and we have had several people ask us why we didn't live here!)

Over the Benjamin Franklin Bridge
BEACH BABY!!! 2 1/2 hours later we were at the New Jersey shore! Here is the first thing Aubrie did- grabbed the sand bucket and began the fun!

I couldn't have thought of a better way to spend a day. In APRIL can you believe it!? No, seriously thank you Brent and we will surely be going again soon.

Bonnie's Visit

2009-04-14T22:44:00.004-04:00

My Mom came out last week. We began the week, first when I went to pick her up at Kristi's in Virginia. I made the mistake of telling Aubrie a few days before we went- she was jumping off the walls (literally) she was so excited. I hopefully won't make that mistake again. Unfortunately my Mom got sick, then Aubrie got sick. Her trip pretty much consisted of spending time in my house. Bummer! However we did manage to show her around in Center City a little and she took us to this delicious dinner at a place called London Grill. Plus, she got to come to my ward here (which I seriously love)! Yes Brian- Brent did wear this jacket to tick you off....

Thanks for coming to visit us on the East coast Mom- we love you!

New Job

2009-04-04T18:29:00.004-04:00

I realized recently that I forgot to post about my new job. I am working at the Roxborough YMCA here in Philadelphia! It has been so much fun. I teach the Little Gymers class. It is a gym class for toddlers. My favorite part is that I get to take Aubrie. I have missed teaching and so this has been such a blessing for me to use my "creative energy" to do something productive. So I have been doing that for about 6 weeks and last week I started helping teach the preschool soccer class as well as helping host the Teen/Tween nights there. I am SO excited that opportunities are opening up. I am also grateful to be making new friends. I have also realized that having a little part time job truly does make me happy- it gives me an outlet- something just for me. I still miss Downeast and all those fun coworkers... (and the clothes...)
Go YMCA - I hope you are all singing the song now!

On a side note- Brent is looking for family practice doctors to do his final preceptorship (rotation) with in Utah. If you know anyone that might be interested please call me.

"True dat"

2009-03-24T18:33:00.002-04:00

No I am not quoting Aubrie with that- it is actually Brent. One thing I forgot to mention about Aubrie's birthday is that later that night we took her to get ice cream at Friendlys restaurant. It is a great family place and they brought her a balloon, ice cream and sang- so great. But the part that really struck me is what the waitress said, "A birthday out with her parents, what more does a kid need?" and to which Brent replied, "True dat!" I couldn't agree more!!!

I have a 3 year old!!!

2009-03-20T15:55:00.004-04:00

Aubrie's birthday is today! We have had SO much fun the past few days. We had a rockin' party yesterday. I lost count of people after 20- (my kind of party) thanks to everyone who came. This morning we put Aubrie's presents at the bottom of the stairs, then sent her down. We thought oh maybe she will scream or just look- no not Aubrie she RAN down and began shredding paper. We barely had time to get cameras. She got this Ponyville amusement park ( she says she loves it and is so busy that is why I am able to do this...) We just got back from Chicfilet (my favorite and Aubrie's) and Chuckecheese. So fun. Happy happy birthday to my adorable 3 year old.

FLOWER SHOW

2009-03-12T13:35:00.003-04:00

Last week I had a fun opportunity to go with some friends here to the Philadelphia flower show. It was great. Not just because I had a night off, but because I am so grateful for friends here and the displays were surely fun to look at as well. Here are the girls, me, Amanda, Kay, and Jana. Nights out in the city are extremely fun.

This is what my future front porch will look like... (soon!)

This display was my personal favorite- shoes!

This display is just cool- using the water bottles and all. It was also VERY tall.

Aubrie Ann

2009-02-28T14:29:00.003-05:00

This post is actually a tag from awhile ago. Here are five fun things about my cute daughter Aubrie.

1- She is VERY imaginative - (probably from being an only child) I don't know but this vacuum is "her prince" whenever I get it out- which is about twice a day- she runs to it and kisses it. So hilarious!

2- The fridge is her domain. I tried to put up Christmas cards but she quickly covered them up. You can kind of see Lindy & Johns and Spencer & Amanda's.. but sorry Hayley your wedding announcement and Erika your pictures got the boot...

3- She loves movies. This is a good thing/bad thing because seriously we argue everyday about turning the tv off. Personally I just can't take seeing some of those shows again. (Dora, Word girl - Mom's YOU know what I am talking about).

4-Aubrie is extremely active. She is performing her newly acquired skill of somersaults in this top photo. She is always dancing, running, basically moving. She will sit still for a good story though....Naps are becoming a thing of the past- bummer for me!!!

5-Aubrie LOVES wearing dresses. I have had to invest in a few more because that is all that she wears. Most days it is a battle to dress her so she "chooses"-it is always a dress. For the latest punishment she won't go to time out- we take away a dress. I am serious- she freaks out and shapes up her behaviour so that a dress isn't taken away. Also along the lines of apparrel- she sticks everything she can on her head as a "tiara" belts, headbands, necklaces whatever. I've also caught her SEVERAL times just standing admiring herself in front of the mirror- too funny!

I love my little princess who is almost 3!

What Brent has been doing in the past few months

2009-02-08T17:23:00.002-05:00

Well, here I am again. Julie is making me do another post on the blog. Appearantly I have had a few interesting things happen to me since my last post (3 months ago). So lets get started.
Last quarter I was at a career fair during a lunch break. I was hungry and I saw that someone was selling cookies. when I attempted to by one, I was informed that I had to enter a drawing to purchase one. Well I was hungry, and hey what the heck what if I actually one something. Well a few months later (Christmas break) I was contacted by the school stating that I had one something (they didn't tell me what it was). Too my incredible suprise, I wan a new iPod touch. It turns out this thing is worth $300 (Whoo Whoo SOMETHING NICE I DIDN'T HAVE TO PAY FOR!!!). I have decided that if ever asked to enter to win a drawing again, I will not pass up any opportunities. A short while after my winnings, a few other PA students and I went to an Amish market in Center City called Reading Terminal. While we were walking we passed a building that was blocked off, and had enough security to make you think that President Bush was hidding out in their. So we decided to stop and have a look. Not long after we started rubber necking, Jamie Fox came out of the building dressed up like he was a lawyer. I guess he is filming his new movie in center city. He didn't look as cool in real life (It must have been the make-up). And lastly, Julie and I were driving home from dinner and came with in a few feet of a van that was completley engulfed by fire. We could feel the heat coming through the glass as we drove by. Julie thought I was going to drive right into it (I thought she was going to jump out the window). That's all. Until next time (3-5 months from now), I hope this has been enjoyable.

ITS A...

2009-01-28T10:36:00.003-05:00

SNOW DAY!!!

Here is a shot from my top window of our car and the houses across the street. You can see our "little" one way street which is the norm here.

It may not look like much- well actually its only about 3 inches, but to locals here this is insane weather. So insane- that Brents classes were cancelled!! Hurray for us!!! Aubrie is pretty excited to have her Daddy home all day. The scary thing is that now it is raining and turning everything into ice- so really I wouldn't want to be driving in this. The ice gets really thick here and forms like inch thick sheets on the streets- that is rough to drive in. The fact that schools are closed here is kind of silly to us who just came from about 30 inches of snow in Utah during December- but we are not complaining!

Night Out On Walnut

2009-01-25T15:48:00.003-05:00

Friday night Brent and I finally got to go on a date here in Philly! We had such a great time. We actually found a parking meter (about 9 blocks away) and walked to Walnut Street in Center City. For dinner we went to this cute little pizza place named Pietros (thanks Carrie for the suggestion). It was so great to walk around on this busy street. I got to go into H & M , got a quick picture of the HOLT cigar shop (that one is for you Dad), and we stopped in front of Tiffanys (the picture didn't turn out- but it was for you Michelle). Our last stop was for dessert at The Naked Chocolate Cafe. It was unbelievably good. Brent felt bad for making me walk all that way in heels (come on fashion is pain sometimes -right?!) anyway being the sweet guy he is he went and got the car for me so I didn't have to walk back. I admit I was a little nervous sitting in this cafe by myself at night luckily it was VERY crowded. We had a such a great time and I am thrilled about finally getting to go out and explore this exciting and huge city we are living in!

I'm Sick Of...

2009-01-19T21:11:00.003-05:00

Sorry this is a negative one, (I'm trying to get over an ear infection).Tonight I just wanted to vent a little.
I'm sick of people asking me when I am going to have another kid...
I'm sick of Aubrie asking me if I have a baby in my tummy...
I'm sick of the excitement of "maybe this month"...
I'm sick of spending money on those stupid tests and not being able to wait to take them...
Most of all, I'm sick of the answer I get when I do...

I only write this because I know so many of you at one time or another can relate to how I am feeling!

Holidays

2009-01-16T13:26:00.004-05:00

Sorry that I haven't been much of a blogger lately (Judith, Mom, others....) Life is starting to settle down again and I promise to be better about posting - like once a week or so- Here are a few holiday pictures. It was so fun to see a lot of you during the Holidays, it also made us appreciate our friends and to enjoy this adventure here in Philly while we can.

Here is us taking down Christmas decorations when we got back- Aubrie was devastated about having to put her "boots" away for a whole year.

Happy New Year!!! We had a rockin' time at the Holt's house.

I love that my family will still do silly things with me- here is a bubble blowing contest. I think that is my favorite part of Christmas- just hanging out with family!

Here is our "white elephant gift exchange" my parents do this very nonformally and no one was told a specific number to bring- we ended up with 66 presents -thats right I said 66! There were only about 19 of us so the game was insane!!!

We Made It!

2008-12-17T22:10:00.002-05:00

We made it! We are back in Utah. It has been so great to see people we actually know! I wanted to write about the trip out here. First my wonderful friend Amanda thankfully gave us a ride to the airport (thanks again Amanda) then we saw friends from our ward that missed their flight and got to come with us. Notice I said "got to" Whitney?! We had a layover on the way, but the 1st plane ride was fun. It was a very small plane and this being Aubrie's first flight- it made it more exciting. The stewardess had her "help" her. She had Aubrie ask all the passengers if they had trash to throw away and collected their trash. She even got tips! The girl made $3.50
Then as we were landing the stewardess announced that she was grateful for Aubrie's help and everyone clapped. Aubrie says, "Hey thats me!" it was hilarious and so memorable. Can't wait to see everyone and we are so excited for Christmas.

Lately

2008-11-28T15:30:00.002-05:00

I have actually been busy lately. I went to New York City last weekend with some girls from the ward here. It was incredible! I had never been and we got to see all the sites. We parked down the street from Times Square. Got to see Rockefeller Plaza, street dancers, the Temple, and of course go shopping! Really it was very cool- and one of the coolest parts about it was that it only took us shy of 2 hours to get there!!!
Yesterday we went to our friend Pete's parents house for Thanksgiving. It was great- everyone was so nice and Pete and Amanda are such good friends (thanks again!)
This morning I went with another friend Carrie to New Jersey to do some shopping. It was CRAZY busy of course- but so much fun to be out and about getting the deals and just being a part of it all. I will post pictures later...

What's a Mormon?

2008-11-18T22:51:00.002-05:00

Funny story- I went to a local salon last week to get my hair done (definitely needed!) and while I was there the girl doing my hair was asking me questions. She asked me where I was from and I told her that I had just moved here from Utah. The guy in the next booth said, "Oh are you a Mormon?" I said yes and she looked at me and said, "What's a Mormon?" That was definitely a first for me. Yet another example that I am definitely NOT in Utah anymore!!!

Dad's Visit

2008-11-13T23:02:00.003-05:00

Last weekend my Dad came to visit us! We first went on a "little" drive to Virginia to have Turkey dinner with my sister Kristi- it was delicious! Then Sunday my Dad got to experience what going to church in Philly is like. His comments were, "Well you have a very diverse ward!" Way to be politically correct Dad! (Really our ward is great and very entertaining!) After church we drove him around Center City and we stopped at the Rocky Statue and The Philadelphia Museum of Art - aka the Rocky stairs. It was really funny because he insisted that we run up them- so funny - and of course Aubrie just loved it. He and Aubrie had quite a lot of bonding time and she keeps asking when Grandpa Holt is coming over-Unfortunately his trip only lasted a few days and now I am REALLY homesick, but I really loved seeing him. My Dad is so great and a wonderful example to my whole family. Thanks for coming Dad- you can come anytime!

Halloween Pictures

2008-11-02T21:45:00.003-05:00

Halloween was so great! Aubrie is only 2 and she was SO hyper all day. I hadn't even let her have candy yet!(it really made me miss teaching on Halloween- that sounds silly but I really did miss my classes this year!) I did several crafts and Halloween games with Aubrie since she is starting to get fun and is able to get into things like glitter and glue!

Trick-or-treating here was different than in Utah - (what isn't different here?) we started out on our street - but after the 5th house and NO one being home we went to another neighborhood. Needless to say, Aubrie loved it and caught on really quickly. It was different, because here if you want Trick-or-treaters you decorate your porch and sit outside with the candy, and only about every 5-6 houses people are doing this. In my neighborhood growing up it seemed the opposite- if someone wasn't home it was weird. We went for about a half hour in one neighborhood with one of Brent's friends and thier kids and then to a neighborhood that is in our ward. Then Saturday they had the ward Trunk -or- treat! By this time Aubrie was a pro. So fun!

Phillies Parade

2008-11-01T16:19:00.005-04:00

Go Phillies!!! Since winning the World Series on Wednesday night it has been INSANE here, but actually a lot of fun. Wednesday night was so wild- people were driving down the road honking, firecrackers were going off and you could hear people cheering amidst cop sirens wailing. Thursday morning we discovered that about 700,000 people had been in the street cheering and unfortunately vandalizing as well. (got to love Philly) then Friday they had a parade. Over 2.5 Million people came to Center City for it. I didn't dare take Aubrie but watched it on TV. Poor Brent was stuck at the hospital but got to see some of it out the window. Luckily he made it back in time to help take Aubrie trick-or treating. Red is everywhere here - even today people still are wearing red and have their cars painted- windows etc... so funny. But is has been great to see the city united like this.

BEST NEWS!!!

2008-10-20T15:29:00.001-04:00

Here is some great news-

WE ARE COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS!!!

I of course am beyond ecstatic! We are so grateful to our parents who are helping us fly home for 2 1/2 weeks. We leave the 12th- hurray!!!

Phillies Fans

2008-10-17T08:40:00.002-04:00

Today I wanted to write about the UNBELIEVABLE Phillies fans here. My friend Mindi tried to warn me but I had NO idea. So the big game was Wednsday night (also the debates but I don't think anyone but us were watching those). People were up VERY late and partying about the big win. The fans are so crazy that they just made a law here that if you have any open container of alcohol on the streets you will be fined. They were outside, which means that by them being in their front yard they are pretty much in ours because the streets are so small. (I am still trying to catch up on sleep.) Then I was watching the news last night and the very 1st story is about how the shops in Center City have almost no Phillies paraphenilia left. I looked at the clock and it was 10:05 and they were still carrying on about this. Then at 10:15 the story was about a Grandma and a 2 year old shot on a crosswalk and they spent the entire story about how they caught the guy who shot them. (sorry to scare you Mom but yes, that kind of thing happens all the time here). I was like really, really that story deserves to be like 3rd and the Phillies team apparel is 1st? Priorities? Basically that is what it is like here- EVERYONE is a fan and if you are not- you better not mention it or you could be in the #3 news story for the night!

Adventures with Kristi and Acadia!

2008-10-15T13:33:00.004-04:00

The last few weeks my sister Kristi and I, (along with Acadia and Aubrie) have had a few fun adventures. We had a chance to go see Gettysburg. It was surreal, very humbling and full of history. I really am enjoying all these historical sites- this is my kind of thing! (I think that ever since I read Gone With the Wind and the sequel I have been interested in the Civil War.) Kris also came to visit us in Philly last week and we had a great time. My favorite part of that was the
Ghost Tour
that just Kris and I went on. It was so cool. I was terrified to go but she talked me into it. I am so glad that I went. We spent 90 minutes walking around Center City by the Liberty Bell, graveyards etc... with this very dramatic guy telling ghost stories. (I didn't take any pictures because I am chicken...) If you ever get a chance to go on a ghost tour- do it!!! It has been fun getting to know Kristi again since we haven't seen much of each other for a long time. I LOVE having some family out here and she is surely terrific and a lot of fun to be with.

My Cute Row House

2008-09-28T19:14:00.005-04:00

Here is our front room - Aubrie wouldn't smile for the picture! I have a fireplace! (does it work???) Here is the dining room, it has this cute little arch alcove thing on the other side.
This is our little "sun room" it is what is there when you open the door.
Kitchen- notice the counter space- it is unbelievable to actually be able to put a cutting board down on a counter and have it fit!
This is the other side of the front room- Aubrie's latest favorite movie (The Wizard of Oz) is on.

This is a just moving in shot- don't you just love unpacking!
Here are a few pictures of Aubrie's room. Everything is basically courtesy of IKEA. (Brent's poor hands from putting it all together).
Here is a shot of the hallway at the top of the stairs leading to Aubrie's room and off to the right is the office.

This is our bedroom- it looks small, but compared to the village it is a freakin' mansion!!! I missed a few rooms (like the office and the basement ) but basically because there is nothing to see but spiders and mice (yes we have mice!!!)

Phone Pics!

2008-09-20T15:58:00.003-04:00

I left my phone at my sister's house (well actually Brent did but lets not get into that), however here are a few phone pictures that I have taken. The first is Aubrie on our trip- I did various prizes to keep her from hating the trip and this was when she opened the princess bandaids. (FYI bandaids are a GREAT bribe!)I was also thinking about it and basically this picture pretty much sums up our great trip across the country- you know - in the car!

Next is the LOVE fountain in downtown Philly- after visiting this day I really wanted to go home.

Here is Aubrie on a carousel ride- her and I got dropped off at Franklin Square in Center City last week and we spent the morning playing in the really beautiful park.

Today we went to Reading Terminal in Center City. (sorry no pics I was too scared to take my phone out!) It is pronounced "redding" I know you are thinking Huh, it is spelled reading like reading a book. But no- just like any new place you have to be careful how you pronounce things or you will sound like a tourist! We took the bus and actually had a fun day. It is this HUGE market place with every kind of food available and fun shops. I will definitely be going back.

Driving In Philadelphia

2008-09-14T17:48:00.005-04:00

Just so you are not surprised when you notice the voice of the posting changed, this is Brent writing. Julie has been bugging me to write a post since she started this blog. I was repremanded last week when I gave out our blog to a friend, because I actually did not contribute to any of the postings. So here I am!
So, Driving in Philadelphia. Before I explain the unwritten rules of traveling via vehicle in Philly, I want to say a few things. Since we have been here, I have almost been in five accidents, and almost hit two pedestrians. I say I because Julie has only driven once or twice. This place is flat out crazy when it comes to driving. Just the other day a local admited to me that people in Philly just suck at driving.

Here are the rules (unwritten rules mind you) of how to drive in Philly:
1. If you haven't started driving before the light actually turns green you will get honked at (actually it's ok to go while it is still red).
2. It is not necessary to look in your rear view or side mirrors before changing lanes (we get cut off all the time).
3. What is the purpose of a blinker. I think that every ones cars are out of blinker fluid here.
4.When turning left, it doesn't actully mean that you are going to turn left, because you have several options. You can vere left, turn left, sharp turn left, or actually change your mind and go strait.
5.If you don't know how to us a round-about here ,go back to Utah or drivers ed, which ever works best.
6.Pedestrians are not required to look both ways before crossing the street. In fact if you almost hit them they will lash out at you, saying that you are in the wrong.
7.If you don't know how to parallel park, you had better figure it out fast.
8. We will probably add a great deal to this list, for we have only been here 3 weeks.

How we've spent our days

2008-09-09T20:49:00.002-04:00

Unfortunately I have yet to locate my camera, so I don't have pictures to accompany this blog( boring I know)! We have managed to do a few fun things since we got here. We went and saw my sister Kristi in Virginia. She has a beautiful house and a new dog (Acadia) - after seeing him Aubrie has decided that all of her stuffed dogs are also named Acadia. We visited Harpers Ferry while we were there -my favorite part was actually the beautiful drive through Virginia- places like Leesburg. I went to the New Jersey shore with some girls in my new ward last week. I say Shore because that is what they call it here (not the beach!) It was amazing and absolutely breathtaking. Aubrie was so scared at first but soon realized waves are fun- I had a tough time getting her to leave. Both Brent and I have gone out with the missionaries. What an adventure there. The lady I taught with the missionaries kept offering me drinks. We have also had them to dinner. There are like 4 sets of missionaries just in our ward. So different than SL.
On Saturday hurricane Hanna was felt here - it was insane to drive in - not like the rain in Utah that is for sure. (Our bathroom ceiling is cracked and water was coming in - this place is ancient!)
Today we headed downtown(City Center) to see the sites. $15 to park for 2 hours (ouch!) We saw Independance Hall and the Liberty Bell - and then.... another downpour of A LOT of rain. We were so drenched in an instant. Of course that ended our tours for the day. It was raining so much that really all we could do was laugh. Aubrie just kept sticking her hand out of the stroller saying, "It's raining!"
We are finally all moved in and I promise to post pictures soon. I LOVE having a basement to store my stuff. I HATE the wood floors (it's just because they creek and I am way freaked out because you hear everything and everyone). We got some of our $ refunded from the moving company- its kind of a long story but I had to call and yell and threaten (Philly style) to get something done. Don't ever use WE-haul (ABF) or Roadway moving company- they are dishonest, expensive, and rude!
I am doing better than last week. It makes it easier to know that I have the support of my friends and family. Especially now that I am one year older(my b-day was Tuesday). Someone asked me how old I was Saturday when I was with the missionaries and I told them- they were shocked and told me I didn't look a day older than 22! Nice! Maybe I should lie about my age here? No one would know!

We Made it to Philly

2008-08-31T21:37:00.002-04:00

Greetings from PA! Well we made it. The trip was VERY long and boring. Aubrie did surprisingly well and keeps asking to go back to the hotel. I am pretty much just in culture shock. Philadelphia is not like anything I have ever seen. It is going to take some getting used to, and right now I just want to go home.
We finally have a house. It is very old but hey there are 3 bedrooms and a basement to store things in. After living in "The Village" up the U- we feel like we are in a palace. The moving company screwed us and won't refund us the money they owe us so, we have NO furniture. I am pretty sure we will NEVER use a moving company again. Aubrie keeps asking where our couch is and all I can say is- "well honey sit on the camping chair!" Life sucks sometimes doesn't it?
Unfortunately my camera is missing so I have no pics right now. I will post some when I find it. This week we are going to figure out how the public transportation works and go see some sights of the city (hopefully) and I am definitely looking for a job because it is CRAZY expensive here. Everything costs SO much. I am trying to be upbeat but it just isn't working...
I will write more of our adventures later.

1 WEEK

2008-08-10T22:30:00.003-04:00

That's right- 1 week exactly and we will be on the road to Phili! We are busy packing and saying our goodbyes this week. I am extremely nervous about the move, not knowing anyone, and everything else that goes along with traveling 2,146 miles across the US to live for the next 2 and a half years. Thank you thank you to everyone that has helped us and done things for us (like parties!) we will miss our friends and families so so much. More than I probably know right now. I am sure that we will have some fun pictures from the trip that I will post after we get there and are all set up. My friends also have teased me lately that I am sure once we move our blogs will be more interesting and more frequent (I hope so). Thanks again to everyone and wish us luck....

Bryce Canyon 1/2 Marathon

2008-07-28T20:09:00.002-04:00

Over the weekend of the 19th my Dad and I had a fun opportunity to run the Bryce Canyon 1/2 marathon. We made a weekend out of the trip, complete with a campout at the local KOA in Cannonville. I had a great time with my Dad (like I always do!) I am grateful to him and his desire to get me involved in running. I have to brag about him- he is almost 60 and has run 20 marathons now and 2 half marathons. That is amazing!!! He is encouraging, and even though I am painfully slow he always stays with me and - hey- we finished!!!

Happy Anniversary - Happy 4th of July

2008-07-15T00:11:00.005-04:00

Here are some pics of the 4th. We began the morning at the parade in Ogden with my sister-in-law Judith - wait did I say parade? I meant a bunch of cars throwing candy and then more candy. My nieces and nephews took home 6 and half POUNDS of candy(yeah they weighed it!) Not to mention the bag full Brent and Aubrie collected for me. It was hilarious. I was dying. I highly recommend this parade for kids. You won't see any floats, but you will see junior high school officers, and stock your shelves with candy until Halloween. Seriously it was funny!
That night- fireworks and toddlers.... it was actually really comical because we went to my brother's house and all the 3 little ones wanted to do was ride their bikes in the backyard. Brent and Brian got to rock out with some sparklers and flowers and we wondered why we bought any at all? It was entertaining!

On a more exciting note- Brent and I celebrated our 5 year anniversary this weekend. He took me to Park City Friday. I loved that he arranged the babysitting (nice huh?) and took me shopping, to a nice Italian dinner on Main street- and we stayed at the Yarrow hotel for the night. Just some of the reasons why I LOVE my cute husband after ALL these years....

Good Thing Utah Guest CoHost

2008-07-06T17:48:00.003-04:00

On Wednesday I had a blast! I had the opportunity (because I sent in a videotape) to be a guest cohost for the day on a local talk show called Good Things Utah. It was very nervewracking but also very fun. I cannot believe how many people saw it. That part is embarrasing- people at work have been coming up to me and saying they saw me- friends calling etc... but its also kind of fun. I totally appreciate all of my friends who came. You can see my Mom here , Kristin, Leslie, Erika and Tammy. Also thanks to Becky and her sisters for making it to the show. I think working in television would be so fun! Attatched below are links to watch the video incase you missed it. I know I'm a total dork and look nervous (hey I was)- but it really was a great opportunity that I highly recommend and would do again in a heartbeat!

http://www.abc4.com/mediacenter/local.aspx?videoid=84023@video.ktvx.com&navCatId=462&articleID=84021 http://www.abc4.com/mediacenter/local.aspx?videoid=84023@video.ktvx.com&navCatId=462&articleID=84021&articleID=84023 http://www.abc4.com/mediacenter/local.aspx?videoid=84023@video.ktvx.com&navCatId=462&articleID=84021&articleID=84020

Move Date

2008-06-11T17:08:00.002-04:00

Well- we have our 1ST moving date. That's right I said 1st. That means there is going to be at least 2. After careful consideration and a lot of research (meaning we are getting a glimpse of how expensive it is going to be to move) we have decided to move in with my parents for a few months. So on the 28th of this month - yes that is in 17 days we are leaving our lovely concrete walls here in the village. Then at the end of August (if all goes according to plan) we are heading to Philli! I started in Aubrie's room this week. She is such a great helper let me tell you- as I would pack up a box she would empty another- along with her drawers and anything else she get a hold of to add to the pile! I would attatch a picture but our computer is down. (Nice timing huh?) Anyway wish us luck- I am stressed to the max! Also we are thinking about selling all of our stuff so if anyone is interested in our furniture or books etc.... let me know.

Moving Tips

2008-05-25T22:16:00.006-04:00

okay- all of you out there who have moved lately. Any moving tips? We have been researching prices and trying to get ideas about companies and what not. What have you done- what would you do again- not do again?
We were thinking about the PODS but they will only get us as far as Jersey so that means we have to move 3 times and we know absolutely no one on the Philly end. Any other companies that you know about? How about ABF? Should we just go the Ryder route?
Any other tips would be greatly appreciated!

Bare Escentuals

2008-05-13T10:18:00.004-04:00

On Saturday Becky and I had a cool opportunity to go to the Nordstrom event - Bare Escentuals mineral makeup. If any of you have ever tried this makeup it is AMAZING! I have been a fan for awhile... anyway I got to meet the CEO Leslie, that is this first picture and I asked her some advice and she actually put makeup on me- this may sound silly to some, but if you have seen her infomercials (which obviously I have-) it was a big deal. Some of the Nordstrom workers came up to me afterwards and were like- wow I saw that- very cool. Anyway too bad I didn't get an "after" shot of my makeup because I loved it (this is a "before" with no makeup) but Becky looks gorgeous! If you haven't tried this makeup you should think about it... there is my plug!

On another note I did something kind of crazy a few months ago- I sent in an audition tape to the local TV show here Good Things Utah. The audition was to be a guest host for the day. Well, they decided to let everyone who entered have a shot. I went last week and checked out the studio, met the hosts, etc... And so on July 2nd I will be a guest cohost! If any of you want to come support me I need to turn in a request for how many tickets I want - it would be fun.... Call me if you want to come and I will give you details.

Brent's Graduation

2008-05-04T00:14:00.004-04:00

CONGRATULATIONS BRENT!!!

Thursday was the graduation ceremony for Brent. It was a lot of fun to see him all dressed up in his cap and gown and have him be officially "done" with his Bachelors Degree. Way to go - we are all so proud!

Autism Walk

2008-04-30T23:40:00.002-04:00

www.walknowforautism.org

Hello! This Saturday my coworkers and I are doing a 5K to support Autism. I thought I would mention the website in case anyone is interested in joining or donating. We have been doing fundraising at work and we as a DownEast outfitters team are ready to "kick it" this weekend! Can't wait!

Olives

2008-04-13T23:00:00.003-04:00

My Post tonight is short. The above pictures are of Aubrie eating her dinner. She pretty much just ate an entire jar of olives. My question tonight is - so are olives considered a vegetable? Because man if they are, I rock as a parent!

March!

2008-04-07T00:17:00.004-04:00

Hello everyone! March turned out to be a very busy month for us indeed. Aubrie is officially 2! It was so much fun to celebrate her birthday. I took her to Princess on Ice the week before- it was so cute and I am not sure who loved it more her or me. We had family parties to celebrate her big day and she just loved opening presents- talk about spoiled! Then less then a week later was Easter and Aubrie enjoyed the Easter egg hunt up here at the U a lot more this year, especially since she understands what exactly candy is and how it tastes. My little sister Becky is engaged! It was a quick one- the date keeps changing but right now it is in May? Congrats Becky and Zak!

We are busy as ever , thankfully I am back to working only one job so and the semester is almost over. I know that Brent cannot wait- (he is not the only one!!!) I have included a few pictures of our month- hopefully this month will settle down.

ZOO DAY

2008-03-03T23:26:00.003-05:00

THURSDAY WE HAD SUCH A WONDERFUL AFTERNOON. BRENT HAD THE AFTERNOON OFF, (WELL HE TOOK IT OFF ANYWAY), WE DECIDED TO HEAD UP THE STREET - LITERALLY- TO THE ZOO. LAST YEAR WE BOUGHT A PASS BECAUSE WE BOTH AGREED THAT IT WOULD BE RARE THAT WE WOULD EVER LIVE LESS THAN 2 MILES AWAY FROM A ZOO AGAIN! IT HAS BEEN A FUN PURCHASE. AUBRIE IS GETTING SO MUCH FUN TO BE WITH!

I like your dress Mommy!

2008-02-26T23:42:00.007-05:00

Aubrie was being so adorable on Sunday. I wore a new dress, (I got my Easter dress early this year!) and all day she kept saying "like dress Mommy" and coming over and touching it. It was so cute. I was loving it! So after church we put on our slippers over our tights (Its what I do while I make dinner sometimes- don't ask me why) anyway and we danced around in our dresses. She was wearing her "Belle" dress from Aunt Kristi. So cute! This other picture is Aubrie in her new Cinderella pajamas. I told her to go stand by the sink and smile. She actually did it- this is a first. Usually she is way to busy to stop playing and hold still for anything. Have I mentioned that I love having a girl?!

p.s. I have tried everything I can think of to rotate this picture- short of just scanning it and then uploading- any suggestions?

New Haircuts

2008-02-21T00:32:00.006-05:00

Hello everyone!

So Aubrie and I got new haircuts recently and here are the first pictures to prove it! Mine was by choice, hers was a mishap. I always put little rubberbands in her her hair to keep bows in and make pigtails- well at night I have to cut them out with scissors. A little while ago Brent was cutting them out and went- OOOPPS- showed me a chunk of hair and bam- Aubrie had instant bangs! Luckily Aubrie has the best Aunt in the world and that Aunt happens to be a hairdresser. (Nice job on the haircuts Aunt Becky!) I think Aubrie looks darling with bangs- tell me what you think......

Valentines Day Tag

2008-02-17T17:34:00.003-05:00

In honor of VALENTINES DAY, Adrienne "tagged me" and my job is to answer these questions about Brent and I. This is really funny to do and it might just get me in trouble if Brent actually reads this...

1. What is your husband's name? Brent Cameron Dawson

2. How long have you been married? Almost 5 years (scary!)

3. How long did you date? Not long enough!!!!!!!!! Only 4 1/2 months (I do NOT advise this to anyone!)

4. How old is he? 27 (yes he is younger than me.

5. Who eats more?Brent definitely hands down

6. Who said I Love You first? Brent, and he was really ticked that I didn't immediately say it back.

7. Who is taller? Brent (thank goodness because man do I LOVE my heels)

8. Who sings better? Well Brent is louder, but I tend to not be as tonedef (sorry sweetie!)

9. Who is smarter? You really want me to answer that? Brent is going to have so much schooling of course he will be. Ha Ha

10. Whose temper is worse? Mine - Mine - Mine I defintely can lose it. Usually with just a few choice words and then I feel much better. Brent never gets mad. In the 5 1/2 years I have known him I think he has yelled like once.

11. Who does the laundry? Me - I hate it but you need to wear clean clothes to look cute right? Wouldn't it be nice to send your clothes out to the cleaner? Yes all of them....

12. Who does the dishes? Both of us, when Brent is home he really does help with things around our place- I love it!

13. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Brent- it is by the window and I get cold. Plus I get up first and it is easier not to have climb over him.(the other side is also against the wall.)

14. Who pays the bills?Me - When would Brent have time, plus I am the one that spends the money!

15. Who mows the lawn? What lawn- ha! Someday when we do have lawn I am sure that Brent will (hint hint Brent!)

16. Who cooks dinner? Me and I enjoy this - Brent can cook and does if he is around.

17. Who drives when you are together? Brent well actually I should say that my "backseat" driving counts as driving so it is me after all.

18. Who is more stubborn? Me no question.

19. Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Brent- he is a sweetheart, I am a brat- need I say more? I can and do admit when I am wrong it just never happens....

20. Whose parents do you visit the most? This is blank for a reason- I don't want to start a fight!

21. Who proposed? Brent

22. Who has more friends? I keep in contact with more people and definitely talk on the phone to friends more than Brent.

23. Who has more siblings? I do.

24. Who wears the pants in the family? Again, I don't want to start a fight but I think that anyone who knows me knows the answer to this one.

Okay so there are the V-day questions. I am now going to "Tag" some friends of my own. Lindy, Bonnie, Becky, and anyone else that feels so inclined.... I would like you to answer these questions and send them ASAP!

Sharpie

2008-02-12T23:26:00.004-05:00

So- last weekend Aubrie was supposed to be taking a nap. Instead, she got a hold of a blue sharpie. As you can see from the pictures, it pretty much has destroyed her bedding (why did I just have to get the expensive one?), two walls, and about half of her toys are decorated with the "pretty Mom" marker! Any ideas for me?

Downeast

2008-02-07T15:27:00.001-05:00

Greetings! Sorry for my lack of writing lately- Aubrie and I have been sick!

So, I have been working a few days a week at Downeast Outfitters in Salt Lake. It is a cute little store with very trendy clothes in this ritzy shopping center (Foothill Village). The people that come in are usually pretty colorful. Last week a young guy (probably close to my age) was looking perplexed as he went through a stack of jeans. When I asked him if he needed help he said, "Well, do you have any jeans that don't go so wide at the bottom?" I tried hard not to smile as I looked and noticed his very tapered jeans!!! I was like well that is what is in style. He then said, " I mean man what shoes do you even wear with these?!" I replied, "Uh any!" It really was comical. Hopefully the woman in his life thanks me later with the nice pair he bought! Yesterday, a woman came in, in such a hurry needing help because she exclaimed, "My driver is waiting!" I was thinking -look if you are that rich that you have a driver, make him wait for you! Then she proceeded to tell me how rough life was because she couldn't find a big enough house around here, so she was living at a hotel. Nice huh? Most of the time I really do like my job.... (6 more months?) at least my "bonuses" come as gift cards right? Really their new spring line looks adorable! I am super excited- and just purchased a nice hot pink shirt to go with my newly brown and blonde highlighted hair. (I hate it!) I will attach a picture later. Check out downeast.
www.DownEastBasics.com

YEAH BRENT!!!

2008-01-25T15:34:00.000-05:00

This morning we recieved the best news ever... Brent has been accepted to P.A. school at Drexel University in Philadelphia. So, we will be moving in August. Hurray! I am so very proud of him and all of his hard work. I just knew that if they could meet him and see what a great guy he is, they would want him to be a part of their program. It is a 2 year program. The first year is all classes and the second year is rotations. I basically plan on not seeing for 2 years (that won't be anything new for Aubrie or I- right?) anyway we are thrilled! I am nervous, excited and still cannot believe it is going to happen!!! Congratulations Brent!!!

Mixed Thoughts...

2008-01-24T15:56:00.000-05:00

I am truly grateful today because it has been exactly 1 month since my last migraine headache. I have been struggling with these since my pregnancy with Aubrie. I had them everyday while I was pregnant and then since giving birth I have had at least 1 a week. These headaches have been so bad that I usually am so sick that I have to call in sick to work & pawn off Aubrie to someone because I am in the bathroom throwing up (thank you thank you neighbors and family!) I have been working with a neurologist at the U and after testing we have tried several medications and this looks like "the one" that is going to help. I am so excited, and just plain grateful. A whole month of NO migraines!!!
Today I have also spent the morning starting to potty train Aubrie- its not going so well. Thats all I am going to say on that. She is finally down for her nap!!!
One last thought- I have a hair appointment Tuesday and am thinking about putting some lowlights back in and getting a weave of colors instead of just this blonde. I don't know the maintenance on this platinum is incredible. I mean I do love the attention and how much I get hit on by men (sorry Brent), but I hate the attention as well. Any thoughts?

Overreacting

2008-01-22T10:52:00.000-05:00

So- last Friday Aubrie was being her usual self and running around at my parents house. (Aunt Becky was chasing her), when she ran into the end of a bookshelf. She cut her eye and it looked awful. Blood started running into her eye and all over her face and I freaked out! The first thing I did was think - "Oh no it might scar if I don't get her stitches!" The first thing Aubrie thought was she was mad that we were not going to be able to go shopping, (which she had been looking forward to all day!) she was crying about her eye and not being able to go shopping. I jumped in the car and headed to the ER immediately. She is fine, she didn't even need stitches. I just OVERREACTED when I saw blood around her eye and thought about a scar! Brent was annoyed because I wouldn't bring her to him at work. Which he should be after all he is an EMT and is about to be a certified Athletic Trainer. Man do I feel stupid! Poor little Aubrie and her black eye! She was mad about getting fixed up at the hospital but gave all the nurses and doctor high fives before we left! Here are some pictures of her first- probably not her last- black eye!

Just Starting...

2008-01-16T23:07:00.000-05:00

Greetings Everyone!
So yes, one of my New Years Goals (as I like to call them) was to start a blog. It is basically a place for me to keep in touch with family and friends. As you all know this has not been one of my strong points since I had Aubrie. Hopefully this will be a fun place for me to fill you in and send pictures.
To update you all on our family- we are still living at the University Village (oh joy!) and Brent is graduating with his BA this year in Athletic Training. He had an interview at Drexel University in Philadelphia for PA school last week. According to him it went well... we are just waiting to hear back. Everytime the phone rings, we jump! It could be another 2-6 weeks though. If that doesn't work out he might work for a year and then reapply since his heart is now set on PA school. I have decided to take on the supportive wife role.
Aubrie is adorable and definitely growing everyday. She likes to walk everywhere now(no more being carried!), its really cute. She got a "doggie" for Christmas that she picked out and named it Ping. It is in a hot pink carrying case and it has to go everywhere. ILOVE how girly she is!
I am fine, just working at Downeast to make ends meet. I actually love the clothes and it is fun to make new friends. I would love to hear from you all, and get tips on how to spice this thing up!