WERNERDOM

Hide and seek.MOV

2011-11-14T17:24:00.000-08:00

Jaden's new thing is to hide from Mommy and Daddy...very funny!

2011 Halloween

2011-11-12T08:07:00.001-08:00

Jaden was given the challenge to wear two costumes this year. We stated to Jaden that it was going to be difficult but that he was up to the challenge. The difficulty came from pleasing Mommy and Daddy.

One costume would seem humiliating and embarrassing. Jaden would probably be laughed at and sent to the crazy house. The other costume would demand respect. Those around Jaden would listen to him with awe and humility. No one would dare oppose his authority.

All those who read this are asked to give their thoughts on which costume was humiliating and which costume would demand respect....

Choose your words wiseley

Oh, and here are some other pictures taken recently...

Running from the monster

2011-10-27T14:53:00.000-07:00

Jaden found the messy drawer monster!!!

2011-10-18T20:28:00.000-07:00

These past two months have been full of activities. Jaden received his first haircut. We stayed at Grandma and Grandpa's house and we took our family pictures.

Happy Birthday, Jaden!

2011-09-09T20:46:00.000-07:00

Jaden is one year old!!!! We can hardly believe it, time has flown by so quickly and now our little darling is all grown up! It was just yesterday that we were bringing him home from the hospital and getting up several times a night for feedings. Now he is sleeping through the night (most of the time!), running all over the place and eating like a champ. We couldn't be happier or ask for a more wonderful little boy.

At our one year check up the pediatrician said he is doing great. Here are his stats:

Weight: 20 lbs (20%)

Height: 30 inches (50%)

Sidenote: Jaden has gotten lighter. Compared to his pictures from several months ago, he is now kind of skinny! He used to be kind of chunky. See picture below. That's Jaden at seven months!

We had a great little celebration with Ah Ma and Ah Gong and Uncle Victor. As you can see, Jaden had some fun with his own itty bitty cake. He looks so cute in his party hat!

Jaden, the birthday boy.

As you can see, Jaden has changed dramatically over the months. Above is a picture of him at just a few minutes old. When he first came out he was all wrinkly and red, very over-cooked. He was almost a week past due (my fault, since I kept telling him not to come yet! I wasn't ready!) so when he finally did come (I was induced), his fingers and toes looked like they'd been soaked in water for too long.

Looking back on Jaden's early pictures, I'll admit now that he wasn't very attractive. Now, however, I think he's pretty darn cute. His skin is a gorgeous olive color and he has the most extraordinary eyes, they are blueish-green. Very pretty.

Overall Jaden is a lot of fun to be around. I go to bed each night thinking about him sleeping peacefully in his crib and I get excited with the anticipation of seeing him again in the morning. We spend all day together, every day and I love it. And he loves it too.

Happy Birthday, Jaden! We love you.

Jaden playing with water.

2011-08-02T06:21:00.000-07:00

I Love New York

2011-07-14T13:14:00.001-07:00

It's been a while since we last blogged but here are some pictures of our awesome trip to NY! It was Jaden and Terry's first trip to the City and they became such pros at navigating the subways and walking everywhere that now they are certified "city boys".

The most gorgeous picture of Ava, ever.

Peekaboo! At the Cloisters. An absolutely stunning museum dedicated to medieval art. A must-see.

We spotted a photo shoot at Greenwich Village. Very glamorous!

At Safari Park.

At the playroom in Louise's building. A true lifesaver.

Jaden got used to riding caboose.

Yummy, yummy New York pizza! Jaden is all smiles for the camera.

The Daddies and their babies at Central Park.

More Central Park.

Jaden is living it up at the Museum of Modern Art. "Starry Night" by Van Gogh is shown here. It is GORGEOUS.

The craziness of Times Square never stops.

Having dinner with the Smocks at a great BBQ restaurant. Yes, they do a great barbeque in New York City!

Terry, pondering at the Met. Another breathtaking museum. Can you tell that I love art????

Sleepy at the Met.

The "twins", getting into lots of trouble.

Swinging at Central Park.

The sleeping babies.

Louise and Ava, the two babes.

Jaden loves being held by his Dada.

The Donut Plant at Chelsea. A true New York treasure!

Thank you, New York! We love you!

Crawling Everywhere!

2011-06-03T16:49:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe it, but Jaden is nine months old! He had his nine month appointment with the pediatrician yesterday. Here are his stats:

weight: 27 1/2" (25-50%)

height: 18.12 lbs (25%)

He's a lot lighter than I thought he would be and not really tall either! What happened to my big baby???

He is crawling all over the place and loves to explore cabinets, purses, and boxes. Sometimes we'll visit his favorite place, a baby's paradise: a bookstore! This is where he loves to pull books off their shelves and leaving everything looking like a tornado just came through.

Here are a few of his six month pix. So cute!

He likes to do this weird thing with the tongue.

With his favorite Taiwanese grandmother.

Jaden is a little fish in the water. Watch out, Michael Phelps!

Brrrrrrrr, snuggle up to Mommy!

Here's a recent family photo. Taking a portrait of yourself is kind of tricky.

All smiles.

I think this picture is hilarious.

My favorite picture of all. He has such an angel face.

Baby Dancing

2011-04-30T08:49:00.000-07:00

Jaden can now pull himself up into a standing position. He often does this in the tub, when he's taking a bath or when he's next to his little table. He holds himself up really well and can stay standing for a long time. His table has all sorts of buttons you press to hear songs or sounds and he has a great time banging on all the buttons.

He is a dancer! He loves to move to the music and bop his body up and down. It is so cute to watch him get excited and to see him move.

Jaden is not crawling yet but manages to get himself into all sorts of funny positions. Sometimes his legs will get stuck under the couch and he'll stay there and cry until I come rescue him. Very often we'll find him all the way across the room from where we first put him. We don't know how he is able to wiggle his way so far without being able to crawl or walk. It is amazing.

He can turn around, flip over (usually by accident), and get on all fours and then back into a sitting position. He is getting stronger but still loves to be held and cuddled. He is as darling as ever and getting cuter as he gets older and chubbier.

Jaden has the chunkiest thighs and I often squeeze them, which makes him laugh. He is now wearing size 5 diapers! This astonishes my friends, who still have their babies in size 3 and 4 even though their babies are the same age as Jaden. He's got the big Binning butt!

We had a lovely visit with the Grandparents recently (both sets). Around the same time we had a little bit of a health scare. One day as I was playing with Jaden I noticed his right chest was a little red and I also felt a lump. Naturally this was very alarming and I tried not to panic as I called the pediatrician. When we went to visit her the next day she said it was a very common occurence for nursing babies and to not worry. Whew! I was so afraid it was something terrible.

Luckily Jaden doesn't mind being kissed and sometimes when I kiss him on the neck he'll throw his head back, close his eyes, and smile blissfully. It is so cute!

Jaden and Ah Ma.

Look at that angelic face!

Mmmm, yummy!

Jaden loves goofing off with Daddy.

Say, "Cheese!"

Jaden wouldn't hold still for the picture until we gave him the brush. Here he is with Grandma and Grandpa. Thanks for coming to visit!

Throwing his head back with laughter. He is the happiest baby on the block!

The jokester

2011-04-14T13:36:00.001-07:00

Yesterday when I took Jaden grocery shopping with me he decided it would be funny to start coughing to get my attention. Each time I looked away he would start coughing again and I knew it was a joke because he was smiling the whole time. It was hilarious...I couldn't stop laughing at what a little rascal he was being and everyone else around us thought it was hilarious too because I could see them smiling and chuckling. I love that little babies, even at seven months, can already have a sense of humor.

Strangers love Jaden and will often come up to him and touch his fingers or his toes affectionately. I find this a little alarming, since flu season has been in full swing for several months and I don't want him catching any germs! It is practically over now, thank goodness, and so far Jaden has proven to be as fit as a fiddle (knock on wood). As for me, his mother, I have been fighting a serious case of allergies and even recently became asthmatic! I have a rescue inhaler by my bedside if I need it.

One of our favorite things to do is walk around the neighborhood. Because the weather has been so terrific, Jaden and I walk almost every day. I love looking at the beautiful and unique homes in this area and waving hello to neighbors. I will be sad when the weather starts to heat up again and I'll be banished to the indoors for the next several months!! :( Never mind, we'll just hit the malls! The indoor ones, that is.

We are so excited to have Grandma and Grandpa visit next week! We will go swimming and do yard work and whatever else suits their fancy. Terry has built and painted the garden boxes, so now all we need to do is start planting! I can't wait to eat our own, homegrown vegetables.

Jaden is now sprouting two bottom teeth! It hurts when he bites me now. Fortunately, it hasn't made him more fussy than usual, which is nice. He is learning to eat more veggies and rice cereal.

I have also bought Jaden a little potty to sit on. He looks so cute sitting on his potty before his bath.

Snapshots of Jaden's life

2011-03-30T15:44:00.000-07:00

Jaden loves to play with the remote controls and our cell phones. If you get a random call from us and you hear little goober sounds, it's probably Jaden calling you.

He's a good boy!!!!

Jaden is getting ready to crawl! He is almost there. We put the remote control in front of him as an incentive.

These past few weeks we've been taking swim lessons. Jaden is learning to be more comfortable in the water and has even held his breath under water several times! It's fun to meet other babies with their mommies and daddies. Row, row, row your arms, Jaden!

Jaden, throwing a tantrum.

Affectionately known as "the goober".

Jaden is a good eater (just like his mommy!) Here he is with sweet potatoes all over his face.

Peekaboo! I see you.

Wheeeeeeee! Legs up in the air. Bath time is so much fun.

Spring is here

2011-03-18T09:58:00.000-07:00

Dada and Jaden, planting trees.

Spring is upon us and the scent of orange blossoms fills the air. March is my favorite month for this very reason. I can't get enough of the delicious smell that is everywhere in Phoenix.

We've been planting trees in our backyard and Terry built garden boxes for our vegetables. Yesterday we bought some flowers and other nice things for our yard. We can't wait to eat our own fruit and veggies. It's also a wish of mine to raise chickens so that we can hatch our own eggs, but I think the noise might drive everyone crazy.

Each morning we have made it a ritual to drink freshly squeezed orange juice, courtesy of the fruit trees from our neighbors. There are so many oranges in Phoenix people can't give them away.

Jaden is the LOUDEST baby I know (most people at church can attest to this). At six months he already throws temper tantrums and has no problem letting me and everyone else around know when he's not happy. When he doesn't want to be placed down he arches his back (he can honestly be an gymnast, he is that flexible) and screams so that it's almost impossible to set him down. I am a little nervous about what he'll be like when he gets older. What can I say, he just wants to be held all the time. In general, he is very sweet and smiley but I must entertain him and keep him happy or else!

Jaden is also the most verbal baby I know. Most babies his age play quietly, while Jaden screams and shouts in my ear all the time. He is very expressive. Perhaps he'll be an opera singer when he grows up???? Either way I am certain he'll be a very talkative child.

Jaden is also quite talented. He has mastered the ability to suck his thumb and nurse at the same time. Yes, it can be done!

Jaden especially loves music. Each Monday morning we go to the library for storytime. It is so much fun to sing songs, play with the instruments and read books. The librarian has a bubble machine and Jaden loves to watch the bubbles pop as they fall to the ground. There is also a little parachute that she brings out at the end. A song accompanies everything we do. There is a hello song, a clean up song and a goodbye song and many other songs in between. I love to sing silly songs.

6 Months!!

2011-03-10T10:08:00.000-08:00

Jaden and Mommy at Schnepf Farms Peach Blossom Festival

His stats:

Weight: 17 pounds, 11 oz (50%)

Height: 27 inches (75%)

Last night Jaden almost slept through the night! I remember waking up at about 2am hearing him cry for a few seconds, and then stopping. This is amazing...Jaden has been sleeping next to me up until a few days ago, when Terry and I finally decided to let him stay in his crib THE WHOLE NIGHT. We knew it would be difficult, but the pediatrician has been telling me for a few months now that he should be sleeping for a full 12 hours at night.

So, on the first night Terry and I laid in bed listening to him sob his heart out. We desperately wanted to go comfort him and finally around midnight I went to save him.

The next night we turned our fan on, which drowned out most of his cries and it helped. We were both really sleepy and just went back to sleep each time Jaden cried. When we got up in the morning we were so proud of him! We couldn't believe he was able to stay by himself the entire night.

Last night was our third try and I was surprised each time I woke up that there was complete silence from Jaden's room, except for the one time when he cried for a few seconds. This is much easier than I thought it would be! I hope he continues to sleep. I am delighted by the amount of extra time I now have to myself in the evenings and mornings. My only regret is not trying this earlier!!!!

Jaden is a chunky little thing. I thought he'd be almost 20 pounds at his 6 month wellness visit and I was surprised he weighed only 17 pounds. He's been wearing the number 4 diapers for a while now.

When I told a few ladies at my Moms Club meeting last week that I speak Chinese they all insisted that I teach Jaden Chinese. I took their advice to heart and speak to Jaden in Mandarin when it's just the two of us. Terry is pleased with this new development but I'm not sure how long it'll last. He's just a baby now and it's easy for me to use simple words and phrases. I started researching preschools and found a few in the area that teach Chinese and there's even one that teaches both Chinese and Spanish, but it's too far away.

It seems silly that I'm already looking for a preschool for Jaden but because the schools here are open enrollment, there are a lot of options and very good schools have a waiting list. Public school? Charter school? I still haven't decided but there's a Spanish immersion program I'm very interested in learning more about. I've also found a Chinese Saturday school for him to attend when he turns three. I would love for him to learn the language and culture of my youth. People tell me they can tell he's mine by his almond shaped eyes. Yes, Jaden will be a heart breaker when he's older!

Jaden loves to wrinkle and tear pieces of paper and tissue. He also reaches for things now and I've already had to wipe up several glasses of water he's knocked over. Sometimes he'll pinch us really hard (he is a strong boy!) and he also likes to wipe his nose in my hair. No wonder I am constantly washing my hair.

The funniest thing about Jaden is that he loves to stick his tongue out and smile at strangers. People love him, they are always commenting to me about how "stinking cute" he is!

Jaden loves his Daddy, who is always tossing him up in the air and letting him fly like superman (when Terry does this Jaden tenses his body and extends his arms back at his sides). They love to spend time together and sometimes when Terry is working out in the yard he'll put Jaden is his stroller so that he can sit outside and watch.

Our little boy loves to be outside and can't get enough of all the sounds, sights and people he encounters on our excursions. The funnest thing for him is when I wear the Baby Bjorn so that he is facing outward and people can't get enough of his smiles and giggles.

It's hard to believe six months has already flown by. Our house is coming together nicely and Terry has been busy planting fruit trees and making plans for our backyard. For my part, I love staying at home and taking care of my boys.

Prescott, AZ

2011-03-02T16:16:00.000-08:00

Arizona is home to many little treasures. One of these treasures is a small city called Prescott. It used to be the capital of Arizona, so there are many old buildings and even a town square. Prescott is a beautiful place with cute boutiques and wonderful restaurants. Terry surprised me with a short trip there for Valentine's weekend and we fell in love with the charming town.

We stayed at Hotel Vendome, a quaint inn that was owned by young newlyweds. The hotel was built in the 1920s and located right by the town square, the heart of Prescott, and within walking distance to the town's many restaurants. Terry purchased the Valentine weekend package, which meant it included fresh flowers, a waffle breakfast bar, chocolates, dessert, and a free meal to an American jazz grill, 129 1/2.

We left Sunday after church and arrived in the afternoon. The owners had made reservations for dinner in advance for us and we killed time by spending the afternoon browsing in the cute little shops around the square. When it was time for dinner, we walked there. I swear, it was the most convenient little town ever! Everything was close! 129 1/2 has live jazz music, which was so much fun to listen to, and the food was delicious! Fortunately Jaden wasn't too fussy, although it's always hard to eat out with him. Everybody at the restaurant just loved him though and didn't seem to mind his occasional crying. He attracts admirers where ever he goes.

We spent the next day at Jerome, an old mining town. It was a ghost town until the 1960s, when a group of hippies came and established residency there. Now, it is a tourist town with high end art galleries and boutiques. We loved learning about its history from the museum there and even went to the haunted hotel to see if we could catch any ghost sightings. No luck!

Once we went back to Prescott we had dinner at the Taj Mahal, where we discovered to our delight that they serve sweet na'an bread! We haven't been able to find it since we moved to AZ, so we were sooooo happy to finally eat the yummy bread we have always loved from The Bombay House in Provo.

The next day was more browsing in the shops and going to the Sharlot Hall museum, where we learned even more about Arizona's history and the remarkable woman the museum is named after. I love going to museums and this one was particularly interesting...we saw the first home of the territorial governor and then the home of the governor when Arizona became a state. Big difference! I'm so glad I live in modern times.

Before leaving we had lunch at a Japanese restaurant called Esoji. Many locals boasted that the sushi rivaled the best of Tokyo, so I couldn't resist. It was delicious and I introduced Terry to tempura. Since he loves all fried food, I knew he'd like it.

We were very sad to leave but it won't be our last time in Prescott. It was a wonderful trip and I kept thinking about how much Louise and her family would have loved it there. Maybe next time they're in town we can all take a short trip up there. Oh, and I found the cutest little children's resale boutique there, called One Sweet Pickle. Another reason to go back up for a visit.

Getting chubby.

Chillin with Dada.

Terry still hasn't given up his dream of starring in a Western.

Still sticking his tongue out.

Apparently the restaurant is haunted too!

Jerome, AZ

I thought this picture of Jaden was hilarious. Yes, I love cowboy hats too.

Out of Africa

2011-02-16T14:15:00.000-08:00

There's an awesome wildlife park not too far away from us. With the great weather, Terry and I went to check it out. Jaden didn't seem to know what was going on, but Terry and I had a great time!

The next best thing to a real safari.

Lions, tigers and bears, oh my!

These lions lounge around in the sun all day. What a life!

Jaden with Daddy.

So, are zebras white with black stripes or black with white strips???

Jaden and I aren't afraid of this anaconda.

Terry isn't either!

According to the tour guide, this giraffe came "extra wrinkly".

Jaden reaching for Mommy's ice cream.

So sweet. The perfect ending to a perfect day.

Binning Family Photos

2011-02-02T13:49:00.001-08:00

You won't believe it, but my family had never taken family pictures before. Until now. We knew we would all be together for Christmas and decided to finally do it. Julianne did a beautiful job (again!). We had a ton of fun and now have some great pictures that will last a lifetime.

I love this one of me and T because he looks so cute.

Our cute little family.

The Asian beauties.

All the kids.

I love my sisters.

The hunks.

After so many years, they still like each other.

The whole Binning clan.

Ballet Fusion Fitness

2011-01-25T14:55:00.001-08:00

Could this be Michelle one day????

I bought a Groupon a few months ago for a ballet studio called Ballet Fusion Fitness and recently began taking classes there. Terry tells me that he notices a sparkle in my eyes and a lightness to my step when I come home from class. I can't help it, dancing makes me happy. I guess I had forgotten just how much I love it and now I have a month of unlimited classes to dance to my heart's content!

Fortunately Terry has no problem with this and now that work is slowing down a little bit for him, he is more than willing to watch Jaden when I am doing my pirouettes.

The studio's only been open for a few months and I want them to succeed so I want to tell everyone about it. If you live in the area, check it out!

www.studiobff.com

2011-01-18T16:53:00.000-08:00

Jaden has become a little goofball. Here is a little video of some giggles from Jaden.

2011-01-11T19:11:00.000-08:00

Here are some recent photos of the past month. We hope everyone had a Merry Christmas.

Jaden was in a very good mood for these pictures.

Michelle, Louise, Ava, Arden and I went to vist the Phoenix Zoo. That is an elephant behind us attempting to eat peanuts out of a barrel.

Jaden is growing fast.

Ava was trying to pet the Sting Rays swimming in the water.

Here is Mommy and our little trouble maker. He loves being carried around.

Arden and Jaden. A couple of people asked us if they were twins.

The Binning Family, Smock Family and the Werner Family went down near Tucson to the Tumacacori National Park.

Christmas Activities

2010-12-07T06:55:00.000-08:00

Jaden recently went to visit Santa and he was a very good little boy while Santa held him! I think Jaden just might get lots of presents this year...

Our little darling just gets bigger and bigger. He is now a chubby little thing and more smiley than ever. He is a happy boy!

Lorina gets home tomorrow! Yippeee!!!!! We are so excited and I can't wait to see her. Jaden is especially happy to meet his Auntie Lorina for the first time.

I look a little scary in this picture because I was just given a makeover at Ulta before getting to the Christmas party. I love getting free makeovers unless I end up looking like Medusa.

Jaden spits up so much that he is now forced to wear a bib as opposed to changing outfits six or seven times a day. Yes, he is a wild one!

Jaden and me in our Sunday best.

Stroller Strides

2010-11-29T14:37:00.000-08:00

Jaden loves his Baby Bjorn.

I recently joined a group of moms that work out together at the park called Stroller Strides. I wanted to take advantage of the great weather and also meet some other moms in the community. It has been a lot of fun and the other mommies are really nice. The best part is that there are always other activities that they like to get together for. This morning after our work out we went to get crepes for brunch. Yummy!

Lorina is arriving home from her mission next week! We can't wait...I am trying to think about all the fun activities we will do when both Louise and Lorina are in town. My brother Ammon might also fly in from Singapore to spend the holidays with us. It's going to be a big crowd!

Last weekend Terry and I took Jaden to go to the Festival of Lights, a local winter festival that was lots of fun. Afterwards we went to a resort close by that had dancers performing a Christmas pageant on stage and free cookies and hot chocolate for everyone to enjoy! Terry also made a gingerbread man. See picture below.

Jaden is now sucking on his thumb! We're thinking we might have to put some hot, spicy sauce on his fingers to cure him of this habit.

All bundled up at the Festival.

Two Months!

2010-11-11T11:57:00.000-08:00

Jaden is taking a nap right now and I thought I'd take advantage of this time to blog. I love times like these!

Jaden is two months old! Here are the stats:

Weight: 11 pounds, 13.5 oz. (50% percentile)

Length: 23 3/4 inches ( 75-90% percentile--NBA, here we come!)

Grandma and Grandpa Werner came to visit us last week and we all had a great time together. It was their first time to meet little Jaden. He loved all the attention!

Here are a few pictures of us at the park.

Jaden is so happy because his Mommy loves him.

He has such a cute little face.

Hanging out with Grandma and Grandpa W

The family.

Cousin Dixie came for a visit.

Last Sunday was Jaden's baby blessing. Terry did a beautiful job and we were so pleased to share the special day with our supportive parents and Sean and his family.

Jaden and Ah Ma

Jaden in his cute white outfit.

Jaden and Ah Gong

Yes, Jaden is adorable in blue.

Happy Halloween!

2010-11-02T11:32:00.001-07:00

Move over, Arapaio! There's a new sheriff in town!

For our Mommy group last week we decided to dress all of our little babies in their Halloween costumes. Jaden was a sheriff. Very fitting.

Here are a few pictures. It was so cute to see them dressed up we all wanted to die.

From bottom left: Jaden, the sheriff; Teagan, the princess; Zoe, the witch; Jadyn, the kangaroo (yes, we have two Jadens, just different spellings), and RJ, the pumpkin.

Haha, Mommy just told a funny joke.

Wow, look at that up there!

Boo hoo, that criminal got away!

Jadyn the kangaroo never woke up.

Jaden will find any excuse to be close to a girl.

Jaden takes his job catching criminals very seriously...

Look at me, I'm cool!

Hey, you over there!

I had the world's worst costume. I was a convict (caught by Jaden) and wore white clothes and wrapped myself with duct tape to make it look like the stripes on prisoner clothing. Some people got it, some people didn't. At the ward Trunk or Treat party I heard a few girls behind me saying, "She just has duct tape on her clothes."

Terry went as a painter because we ran out of the duct tape.

Getting kissed by Mommy is scary!

T is so proud law enforcement runs in the family!

Poop and Pee Story

2010-10-16T14:11:00.000-07:00

A few nights ago when I was changing Jaden's diaper he started to poop unexpectedly (I know, how random for a baby!) and it got everywhere! As I was busy trying to clean everything up, he began to pee and some of it landed on his face! You won't believe it but at the same time milk started to dribble out of his mouth...

When I looked up to check on him, I noticed Jaden was smiling! Apparently he thinks it's very funny to be lying in a pile of poop with pee on his face and milk coming out of his mouth. Or maybe he was laughing at the poop that landed on my shirt! Sigh. Boys will be boys, I guess.

A few nights ago Terry and I attended the Centering Pregnancy group reunion, where we all brought our babies and shared our birth story (some of them were horrifying!) It was a little embarrassing because while all the other babies were calm and quiet, Jaden was fidgety and hungry. We had to get out of there as soon as possible!

It was interesting to hear how everyone's labor went and wonderful to see everyone again. We all pitched in to give our midwife, Ramona, a gift and when we gave it to her she started to cry. She's such a sweet lady.

I joined a mommy group with several of the ladies from my Centering Pregnancy group and we meet once a week at someone's home. It's been good for everyone to get out of the house and to socialize with other mommies! We have tons of fun together--talking, sharing advice and exchanging baby stories. It's great to be friends with other women in the same stage of life you're in and very helpful during this transition.

A few days ago I resigned from my position at The Women's Information Network. I was anxious to do it, but afterwards felt really sad that I had decided to say goodbye to such an important part of my life. I love to work and really enjoyed my job but felt that it was the right thing for me to do at this time. Although the job was ideal because I could have worked part time and from home, I knew even a part time job would bring on stress that really wasn't necessary. Perhaps in the future I can work again but for now it's nice to have the time to just focus on little J.T.

Here's a picture of baby sister, Lorina, on a mission in Preston, New Jersey!

Hermana Binning, we miss you!

One Month Old!

2010-10-11T13:51:00.000-07:00

Posing like a supermodel

Listening to Daddy's jokes

Hey, sign me up!

Looking up to Uncle Victor

Our little darling is now one month old.

Weight: 9 pounds, 11 oz

Height: 22 1/2 inches

Yesterday was our first day at church with him. He slept all the way through Sacrament, even though half way through he started making his grunting/straining sounds and they were VERY LOUD. Terry and I exchanged glances, totally embarrassed, and we saw people looking our way and smiling. We all knew exactly what was going on down in that car seat.

This morning he was nursing and decided to start crying hysterically for no reason. Good times!

Although Jaden has a lot of hair, he has a serious receding hairline. Terry wants to buzz it all off. His head shape is looking a little better though; when he was first born, it was a very funny looking egg shape. My friend Michelle, who works with autistic children, said that there are helmets available for odd-shaped heads. I hope it will not have to come to that.

Jaden did not like his Hepatitis B shot very much at all.

Terry recently had a birthday. We went out to breakfast and little Jaden was a hit with the waitress. In fact, everywhere we go people make comments about him. Everyone loves a newborn!

For his birthday, Terry bought himself Apple TV. Although it makes us sound unsentimental, we usually tell the other person exactly what we want for our gift, or in Terry's case, he will just buy it himself. That way you get exactly what you want! I did, however, buy a card for him and considered adding a treat to it, like a candy bar. But I decided against this, because I don't want to encourage any bad eating habits. Terry has a major sweet tooth. The funny thing is, as I was shopping I had no qualms about buying myself some chocolate, even though I am the one that needs to lose some weight. As Terry likes to say, I'm always looking out for number one!

Happy Birthday, Terry! You are more than I could have asked for. You have always loved me unconditionally. I love you too.

Daily Walks and Noisy Sleeping

2010-10-06T14:56:00.000-07:00

A few things I've noticed about Jaden's features. His eyebrows are so light they are practically invisible. He has very long eyelashes. He has a wide nose and I don't know where it came from. Terry calls it the "Werner nose". The funniest thing about Jaden is that when he is about to cry he puckers his lips and looks like a monkey. He also has a widow's peak. Very monkey-ish.

Can you say, "Ahhhhhhhh"?

Life dramatically improved for me when we bought a stroller for me to take Jaden out for daily walks. For the past week I've been walking Jaden around our neighborhood in the early morning to beat the heat and loving every second of it. My only regret in this post-partum period is that we did not do it sooner! I might have been able to avoid a week of the baby blues.

For the past few days Jaden has become a very noisy sleeper. My mother assures me this is normal. He now grunts/groans/shrieks and a whole lot more in his sleep. It is exhausting to listen to and I would be more irritated if it wasn't so funny sounding. I'm not quite sure how one can make all these noises and appear to be sleeping but I guess babies are in a category all on their own.

One of our favorite things to do is to imitate Jaden's noises. I do a really good one and each time Terry and I laugh our heads off. Our son is a little goof ball, but he's cute. I think I love him more each day. This morning he was lying next to me in bed because I was too lazy to put him back in his crib after nursing him and as he was squirming around he stuck his finger up my nose.

I feel like I don't get a second to myself. If I'm not caring for the baby, I'm doing the laundry or washing the dishes or cooking dinner. Just when I think I have enough time to get everything I need to do done, Jaden will wake up and I'll be forced to postpone my chores until his next nap or when Terry gets home. But it's nice to be busy, as it makes time fly by and the truth is, I'm starting to realize that I'm enjoying every second of it. Motherhood has made life very simple for me and simple is sometimes a lot of fun.

I love the way Jaden looks at me because I think he knows that I'm his mother. It's nice to feel needed by such a precious little thing. He is my little monkey!

Here are a few more pictures of Jaden.

I love this cute picture of Jaden peering over his daddy's shoulder.

T and J are both so happy they are father and son!

Every night when Terry walks Jaden around the house to calm him down Terry will gaze down at Jaden in his arms and say tenderly, "My son..." He is an amazing father. I think he is better with Jaden than I am. When Jaden cries I immediately want to feed him, but Terry will protectively say, "He's fine!" and whisk him away from me so that he can soothe Jaden his own way.

T wants to feel like he's playing a part in caring for Jaden too and I am very grateful. The other night when Terry went to run errands he left instructions for me on what to do if Jaden starts crying. And he was annoyed when he came back and discovered I didn't follow them.

Terry says sometimes Jaden gives him the finger.

First Photoshoot

2010-09-26T14:17:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite one of all.

Jaden is an absolute sweetheart. Last night after I finished nursing him I held him in my arms and he was gazing up at me--eyes wide, mouth open--and he kept SMILING. It was so cute.

I have to admit, motherhood is really tough. The first week everything was new, Jaden was very quiet and my body was recuperating. The night feedings also weren't too bad, so I wasn't too exhausted.

Then the second week the reality of caring for a newborn set in, with my husband returning to work and the isolation of being at home all day long leaving me slightly depressed and lonely. Now I truly understand that my life is no longer my own and I cannot come and go as I please like I used to. I guess what has really affected me is the realization that I will not be living my life for ME anymore and it has been a hard truth to swallow.

T has been understanding and sympathetic, especially on the days when he can tell I am on the verge of tears. So, yes, motherhood has been an adjustment for me and a VERY big change for someone who loves her freedom and independence. But like all changes, everything works out ultimately for the best. I guess it is time for me to grow up.

On a lighter note, we have pictures of Jaden at just over two weeks old. The ever-talented Julianne graciously offered to take pictures again and she did a beautiful job. Here are a few my favorites. Jaden looks stunning. It is surprising to see how quickly he has grown in such a short amount of time and how his eyes are turning into a deep shade of blue. Gorgeous!

The little angel

Our Birth Story

2010-09-16T16:45:00.000-07:00

Me, sitting on the birthing ball and drinking my coconut water

I did not have a natural birth. Although it was my intention to have my baby naturally, it did not work out that way and I have absolutely no regrets. Here is the story...

I was due on Wednesday, Sep 1. Sep 1 came and went and no baby yet. On Friday I went in for a non-stress test at the doctor's office and after being monitored for about 20 minutes, I was told to go to the hospital for further testing because the baby's heart rate wasn't rising with the contractions I was supposedly having (according to the nurse they were 2-6 minutes apart but I felt nothing). My doctor told me if further testing didn't improve the situation, they would induce me. Of course all of this made me really nervous. I thought about calling Terry (he had gotten home just a few hours ago from work and was fast asleep) but I decided not to, mostly because I knew I would burst into tears the moment I started talking to him.

Fortunately at OB Triage everything looked fine. After being monitored for a few hours, I was given the ok to go home and asked to return on Monday, Sep 6, for further testing.

Monday, Sep 6 was Labor Day. I was confident that the test results would be just fine and I was so confident that I decided to go to the hospital alone, even though both my parents, who were in town, and Terry, had volunteered to go with me. I was right--the tests looked fine and I went home.

After my cervical exam at the OB office the Friday before, I had been consistently bleeding. Nothing too alarming but I had called my midwife on Sunday just to make sure. She didn't think it was anything to worry about. On Monday afternoon, after my parents left, I began to feel uncomfortable with the amount of blood that was coming out. I called Ramona again, who advised me to go to OB Triage to get it checked out. I told Terry to get ready for the hospital and although we both knew I wasn't really in labor yet, we brought along our hospital bags. I guess I just knew we wouldn't be coming home that night.

At the hospital, I was again monitored and told I was three centimeters dilated. However, the test results weren't great. The bleeding and the baby's heart rate were both a concern to the nurse and she went to go get my OB, Dr. Kells (he was there for a C section). He came and gently advised me to be induced that day. With the baby almost six days overdue, he felt it was the best thing to do, even though he knew medical intervention wasn't part of my plan. I agreed to be admitted to Labor and Delivery right away and to get labor going with pitocin. It was show time!

Once I was admitted to my room, I was given a low dose pitocin. I immediately began listening to my relaxation music and trying to get "in the zone". Since I was hooked up to an IV and monitored, I couldn't really jump in the shower like I had planned to or move around to different positions. I found that I was most comfortable sitting on a birthing ball, although I was getting increasingly more and more uncomfortable as time passed. But there was nothing I could do about the discomfort, except be grateful that I had a little bit of time between the contractions or "surges", as we call it in hypnobirthing, to rest.

After about four or five hours my nurse and midwife came to check on me. Ramona, my midwife, is wonderful. She is a certified nurse midwife and works for Dr. Kells at his OB office. She checked my cervix and told me I was about 4 centimeters dilated and would dilate at about one centimeter each hour. It was midnight and I was exhausted. Terry and I both looked at each other when she told us this. This meant I would be in labor for at least another six hours!

It was at this point that I decided to swallow my pride and ask for an epidural. The anesthesiologist, Dr. Wang (bless him!) showed up almost right away and the relief was instant. I couldn't even tell you what a difference it made. The epidural made me shake uncontrollably at times, but both Terry and I were able to rest that night. It was heaven sent.

I naturally have very low blood pressure and the epidural made my blood pressure even lower, which affected the baby's heart rate. They gave me another drug to raise my heart rate back up and lots of fluids through the IV. Nobody seemed alarmed but the nurse did come in to check on me more regularly after this.

At about six thirty in the morning Ramona and my nurse came back in and finally--I was almost ten centimeters! They began setting up for the delivery and told me to call them when I started to feel pressure. The epidural numbed everything down there and instead of waiting for me, they came back in just after seven and told me it was time to start pushing. My nurse told me how to push and we practiced a few times. Then, it was time to push. At first, it was easy. I just did exactly what they told me and Terry was right there, holding my hand and encouraging me. I didn't feel anything, no burning at all. After about ten or fifteen minutes, I was starting to get out of breath and feeling drained. Ramona kept telling me how close I was and assuring me it was just a few more pushes before the baby would be out. This was exactly what I wanted to hear! She also told us he had lots of dark hair.

I didn't know it at the time, but the baby's heart rate was dropping and Ramona had a pair of scissors in her hands, ready to cut me so that she could get the baby out as quickly as possible. Fortunately, one last push was all that was needed for Jaden to pop out and before I knew it, Ramona passed a little baby to me. I was surprised at how clean Jaden was and how quiet he was too. He softly whimpered but didn't cry. I just couldn't believe I was finally holding my baby in my arms!

I didn't know what our reaction would be but neither Terry nor I were emotional, just happy. We finally had our little boy.

We stayed at the hospital for another two nights and the nurses waited on me hand and foot. I had never been so well taken care of! The meals were delicious and the nurses attentive. The lactation consultants were on hand to help me with breastfeeding, which was very helpful. I was very happy with the level of care I was given and I know it has made a big difference in my recovery.

Although Jaden's birth did not work out the way I had planned, all is well that ends well. A big thank you to Ramona and the nurses at Chandler Regional, for everything they did to take care of me!

The little Guy

2010-09-15T12:31:00.000-07:00

Jaden was born on Sep 7 at 7:52am. He weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces and was 20 1/4 inches long. On our first visit to the Pediatrician, Dr. Matsumoto was surprised by how alert he was for a newborn.

Everyone is already telling us how much he looks like his Daddy. I'm guessing he's going to inherit the Werner blue eyes. It was a good move to use "Terry" as Jaden's middle name. Terry takes equal responsibility for Jaden and is always eager to help. He just adores his son.

Here are a few pictures Terry took of Jaden this morning when they were hanging out as Mommy was getting some much needed sleep!

I know some of you are curious about our birth story...I'll definitely share all the details in my next post when I tell you about our Labor Day...literally!

Jaden, one week old

These two were taken the day we came back from the hospital

Welcome Jaden

2010-09-08T11:30:00.000-07:00

Jaden has arrived. Here are a few pictures of our little boy and some of the thoughts that might be going through his head.

What are you looking at?

I'll go another round in the boxing ring with Mickey Mouse if he wants some more.

The Medical Staff was great..

This bed is a little stiff.

What I wouldn't give for some peace and quiet around here.

Your a lucky man Daddy!!!

Don't be afraid to put your thoughts on what Jaden is thinking.

MOVING DAY!

2010-08-27T11:52:00.000-07:00

It's official, tomorrow we are MOVING.

Terry and I are both nervous and excited. The next few days are going to be really busy and crazy. This whole week we've been biting our nails, waiting for a final closing date so that we could start planning our move for Saturday morning. Needless to say, it was a huge relief when we got the phone call to go to the title company to sign the paperwork.

We signed the documents yesterday afternoon and did our final walk-through of the home this morning. It's a great house and we are looking forward to moving into our first home!

It has been a nerve-wracking past few days, but fortunately we've been preparing for the move all week, as we knew it was a strong possibility everything could be finalized on Thursday or Friday. T has been busy packing (in his spare time!!!) and I've been, um... helping him.

T just might get the Best Husband of the Year Award. He bought the car seat, the pack n play, the appliances for the home, worked with the agent on the closing, arranged the move, and did almost all the packing. All of this, on top of working nearly every day of the week in horrendous weather and crazy hours! I am such a lucky girl!

In the mean time, I have been busy trying to tie up loose ends at my job and don't start my maternity leave until next Wednesday, my due date. I am hoping the baby comes exactly on my due date, as that will give me a few days to get the house ready. Ha! We'll see what happens. Maybe a few extra days of not working would be nice too.

Terry also started working in a new area this week, with a new boss and squad. The timing for everything is just UNBELIEVABLE...all we can do is laugh.

New Baby, New House

2010-08-18T13:29:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I only have two weeks left until my due date!

We've had some interesting developments with the house. To make a long story short, we are trying to close by next Friday!!!! Terry wants us to move ASAP, so we might be moving next weekend! I'm not sure what will happen, since I know closings never happen smoothly, so I guess we'll just have to wait for a few days and see how everything goes. Although I am kind of dreading it, it might be a good idea to move before the baby gets here.

I've been talking to Baby and telling him that I'm not ready for him to come yet. Not sure if it's working or not. The ultrasound shows that he is VERY low in my stomach. That's good news, isn't it?

We still haven't decided on a name. The name I liked didn't have any special meaning to it, which is important to Terry, so we decided to compromise and come up with a name together. Which is probably the way it should be! For now, we like to tease Baby by calling him silly names, like "Bubba" or "Bartholomew" or just any name we would never consider seriously. (No offense to anyone with those names!) Hopefully we are not scrambling at the last minute to come up with a name if I deliver unexpectedly. Either way, I'm sure it'll all work out and we'll find a very suitable and noble name for our son.

In my prenatal yoga class we always go around the room and introduce ourselves and say how many weeks along we are. One by one the women who are farthest along would slowly "disappear". For months I was always the "youngest" but as the weeks have crept by I am now the senior member of the class and soon it will be my turn to "disappear".

I am still shaking my booty in Zumba. I love it when strangers come up to me in the gym and ask me about my pregnancy and how many weeks along I am. They are complimentary and impressed I have made an effort to exercise throughout my pregnancy. The workouts get harder and harder as the weeks go by but I'm having so much fun dancing that I don't care.

A Weekend for Two

2010-08-08T16:00:00.000-07:00

To celebrate my birthday, our anniversary and for Terry to take a much needed break, we decided to spend last weekend at a beautiful resort called The Royal Palms Resort and Spa. We knew it would be the last time it would be "just the two of us", so we decided to take advantage of this opportunity to have some fun!

The Royal Palms is gorgeous! It was just like staying in a Mediterranean villa. I arranged for us to stay in a designer casita, a very special place to stay because no two casitas are alike, with each individually and uniquely designed by a different designer.

After checking in, we went to dinner at Postino's, well known for their different varieties of bruschetta. Yummy! We love bruschetta! Our favorite was the mascarpone with figs. Afterwards we went for dessert at the La Grand Orange Bakery, which is full of decadent and amazing desserts. Then, we went swimming in the evening, where the water was just the perfect temperature!

The next morning we went for a hike and then got ready for our appointment at The Alvadora Spa! It was our first time at a resort spa, so we felt very spoiled and relaxed as we were sitting around waiting for our appointment, snacking on nuts and banana chips. I was so happy to see Terry having such a great time. I knew he was enjoying his massage when I kept hearing him sigh blissfully. Too bad my prenatal massage wasn't quite so relaxing! They had me lay on a pad that supported my belly and I felt like I was suffocating because I had to breathe through a weird contraption that was supposed to support my face. Oh well!

It was also the first weekend this summer that we actually lots of rain! Kind of ironic, but nice, since we didn't have to deal with the heat. It was the first time in a few months that my feet were not swollen. That evening we went shopping at the Biltmore Fashion Park and then had dinner at True Food Kitchen, an organic restaurant inspired by the health guru, Dr. Andrew Weil. We both agreed that although the food was good, it wasn't quite worth the price we paid for dinner. Then, dessert again at La Grand Orange.

The next morning we had breakfast at the hotel's restaurant. It was the most expensive breakfast of our lives. We felt a little bit better about ourselves after we snuck some of the desserts from the brunch home and snacked on it after church. I think we must have each gained about five pounds in two days!

This entire week I've been thinking about last weekend and how fun and relaxing it was. The Royal Palms is all about ambiance and we spent some time taking pictures of the beautiful grounds before checking out. I think we both agree that it was some of the best times we've had together. I will cherish these memories forever!

I wouldn't allow Terry to take too many pictures of me, because I'm not looking too good these days.

Terry, deep in thought!

One more month to go!

Our little casita.

By the fountain.

Getting rained on. Check out that huge puddle!

One last note: Terry is hilarious! He gave my birthday gift (an ipod nano!!!) when we were at the resort and after we came home and started unpacking, he found the card he was supposed to give me but forgot to sign. He pulls it out and reads it to me and then says, "I think I'll save this for next year," and puts it away! He is so cute.

The Art of Breastfeeding and house update!

2010-07-25T17:06:00.000-07:00

Terry, drawing up plans for the home. Yes, that is an 80's kitchen!

This past week Terry and I attended the class, "The Art of Breastfeeding". I remember when I signed up for it I was wondering how they could fill up a three class talking just about breastfeeding. It was like the time I discovered a few years ago there was a store called Babies "R" Us and I wondered how they could possibly fill up such a large store with just baby stuff! Ha! Little did I know a whole world of baby stuff has always existed.

It was definitely helpful to learn so much about how to feed and care for a little baby. I had never given much thought to breastfeeding, so the information was really useful and has given me more confidence in my ability to care for a newborn.

We also have an update on our house! This week we learned that everything is moving forward and that we will soon receive approval from the bank for the purchase of our home! It was a little anti-climatic when we first heard the news because we had waited much longer than we anticipated and had begun to lose interest. But with each passing day we are growing increasingly excited at the prospect of having our own home. We expect everything to finalize quickly and for us to move into the home in just a few months.

The thought of packing up boxes and moving with a newborn in my arms is definitely not appealing. But Terry tells me not to worry because he'll "take care of everything." Isn't that sweet? He is already drawing up plans for the minor remodeling we'll have to do and is confident he'll be able to put his years of construction work to the test to make it beautiful and comfortable.

We are both very excited! Everyone is invited to our pool party!

These fears are normal...right?

2010-07-18T18:25:00.000-07:00

Now that I am approaching 34 weeks (only 6 more weeks left!), I am getting more and more nervous. Throughout my pregnancy I have been plagued with fears--of the labor and of the responsibility of caring for a new born baby. I have horrible thoughts of the baby getting hurt somehow and as unreasonable as these thoughts are sometimes, I'm just not confident about my ability to care for a newborn. It seems so effortless with many of the mothers I know, yet I know from their stories that it was far from easy for them when they first became mothers.

Today my friend Laura spoke in church about the fears she had about becoming a mother before her daughter was born. It was comforting to know that I'm not alone in how scared I am about this new phase of my life and that these fears might actually be normal. As terrified as I am, I know that there's only so much preparation I can do and whether I feel "ready" or not, there's no turning back now...

The countdown continues. Yesterday I went to the store to load up on supplies we'll need for the next few months so that I don't have to bother running to the store carrying a brand new baby in my arms when we're out of toilet paper. This week Terry and I plan to look for a good car seat and I need to stock up on diapers soon! There seems to be so little time left and still so much to do.

At the end of this month I turn 29. Just when many young mothers I know are "done" having kids, I am just starting my journey. I am glad I waited until the time for right for me but I do admire the women who started their families early and seem so pulled together and wise beyond their years.

In a few weeks Terry and I also celebrate our 4 year anniversary! Time has flown by and it seems like we love each other more and more as the months pass. I think my pregnancy has brought us closer and I know that Terry will make a wonderful father.

The funny thing about us is that our personalities somewhat reversed when I became pregnant. It's hard to believe but being pregnant made me very mellow. Things that used to be a big deal just aren't a big deal anymore and Terry, for some reason, became a little more high strung.

I really prefer my new easy-going personality to my old one, so can I keep this new personality after the baby is born, along with the glowing skin and shiny hair?

A Few More Things Checked Off the List!

2010-07-09T16:24:00.000-07:00

Hospital Tour

Last Monday T and I went on the "birth tour" at the hospital where we'll be delivering our baby. It was...better than I expected. I can't say the delivery room looked all that comfortable but I was happy to hear that 1) food is allowed, 2) the baby will stay with me the entire time and won't be sent to the nursery (I don't want my baby getting mixed up with someone else's!!!!) and 3) I get my own recovery room.

Expectant mothers even get their own hospital entrance! It's nice to know that hospitals are doing everything they can to make the mother's stay as pleasant as possible. Now I just have to pack my hospital bag. I'll have to make sure I have all of my snacks with me! It's hard to imagine going through something as physically demanding as labor without having some kind of sustenance.

Pediatrician

Yesterday we had our interview with the pediatrician. She cleared up all of my fears about vaccines and circumcision. So, we're moving forward with doing things the "normal" way, much to Terry's relief. I was really questioning some of the shots and why circumcision was even necessary. Terry thought I was crazy (as usual).

Good times!

Last night I went to watch Eclipse with some friends. All the ladies loved getting together for some "girl time". We are sad to say good bye to our friends Amanda and Mark and Laura and Greg. We are excited they're moving on to their next adventure and we wish them all the best in their new home!

House update

No, we haven't heard back yet...we are a little anxious and disappointed it has taken so long but I guess that's just the way things are. I guess we'll have to make do in our one bedroom apartment for now but I have the sinking feeling that I'm going to be packing boxes right around the time the baby is due, which will probably send me into labor.

Our (potential) new home. Check out the duckies swimming in the pool!

Maternity Pictures!

2010-06-26T15:20:00.000-07:00

My very talented friend, Julianne, took my maternity pictures for me. It was so much fun! (she also throws a great baby shower! :))

These are Terry's favorites!

Cute party favors. We can't wait to meet our little peanut!

Julianne also made a chipboard scrapbook for me and included some of my pictures and advice from friends. Where was I when they taught this in Young Women's? :) Thanks, Julianne!

Everyone is Nice to the Pregnant Lady!!!

2010-06-20T09:39:00.000-07:00

At my last zumba class the teacher asked us if we wanted to try something different--something really different. We were like, "Yeah!!!" So she turned on the music and started dancing and we all began to copy her. Then she jumped off the stage and randomly picked someone from the audience to get up to lead the class. Uh oh, I thought. I hope she doesn't pick me! Being put on the spot like that is scary.

The teacher kept randomly selecting people from the class to take turns leading and coming up with dance moves the rest of the class would have to follow. It was embarrassing for the unlucky few up on the stage when it was their turn to lead and nerve-wracking for the rest of us, wondering if we were next.

Then the teacher made her way over to where I was and said, "Come on, hot mama!" and started pushing me up there. To my surprise, when the class saw me walking up to the stage, they all started to cheer really loudly!

I was definitely embarrassed up there and tried not to look like a dork. I could see people smiling encouragingly up at me. It made me realize that no matter how silly I looked, everyone was cheering me on. This made me feel really good.

One thing about being pregnant is that everyone is really nice to you. People are always coming up to me at church and asking me how I'm doing. Early on in my pregnancy I was caught a little off-guard by this, not understanding what they meant. Then it would dawn on me--Oh! They're asking me because I'm pregnant! It is sweet and considerate and always reminds me of how kind people are.

Doctor Werner!

After taking a few birthing classes, Terry think he's an expert. He think all the hours of classes we've taken can be summed up in five minutes. In his words, "Just relax, have someone give you a massage and don't hold any tension." Thank you, Doctor Werner! I'd like to see how you would do if you were in labor!

As my birth companion, it will be Terry's job to use specific techniques to help me relax during labor. Unfortunately, during our practices, Terry can't help but throw in a joke or two before trying to calm me down and get settled for relaxation.

Naturally, laughing is hardly calming and completely throws me off. I am a little nervous about how everything will play out when it's "show time", since Terry can't seem to take this seriously. I threatened to fire him as my birth companion last time we were in class when I couldn't stop giggling because he was pretending to cast demons out of me. It wasn't until later that I got mad. Oh well. What can I do?

On Aging

One day a month or two ago I noticed a small, purple bruise above my right knee. Since it was just a bruise, I didn't think much about it. It wasn't until a few days later that I realized it wasn't a bruise--it was spider veins!

I asked the ladies in my ward if they got spider veins with their pregnancies. They said yes, but they didn't make a big deal out of it. I seemed to be the only one upset by it, but maybe they have already learned to face the reality that yes, aging is inevitable!

Between my spider veins, new gray hairs that I seem to find each week in the mirror and the wrinkles around my eyes that I got after I moved to Arizona, I am feeling very old, indeed!

Pregnancy is WORK!

2010-06-11T06:57:00.000-07:00

I am entering my third trimester. I can't believe how quickly time has flown by! I am busily engaged in preparing for my labor and have recently decided that being pregnant is a part time job.

In between my hypnobirthing classes, my Centering Pregnancy group meetings (this takes place in lieu of regular doctor visits), prenatal yoga, swimming, zumba, daily practice of deep relaxation, breathing, visualizations, squatting, AND kegels, and trying to read all the books I can get my hands on about natural birth, I feel like I hardly have time for anything else! Now I have recently learned about perineal massage--just one more thing I have to check off the list each day!

At my last Centering Pregnancy group meeting, we went around the room to say what we were most excited about and what we were most scared about in regards to labor. Everyone pretty much said the same thing--we were all excited to meet our baby and nervous about having complications. What I wanted to say was, "I'll be excited when I'm no longer pregnant so that I don't have to attend any more classes!"

Poor Terry is at his wit's end--he has been picking up some extra work on his days off and he is exhausted from working all day in the hot sun, only to be dragged off to another class. He has been a good sport but feels like he needs to draw the line somewhere. Yesterday I approached him about another class that is being offered at my yoga studio, "Yoga for Labor and Birth". I really want to attend but Terry says there is such a thing as "too much information".

We shall see.

Carefree Getaway

2010-06-03T17:27:00.000-07:00

Michelle and I took a little trip up to Carefree a few weeks ago for some R & R. Our little baby boy continues to grow inside Michelle. I was able to feel the baby kick a few weeks ago. The little guy kicked so hard that Michelle was nearly knocked to the ground. It sounds like he is already inheriting his mother's feistiness.

Michelle has adopted the pregnant women stance of using her baby as an arm rest.

Oh ya, I still got game. I almost got into it with a guy during ward basketball. He fouled me!! Really!!!

Cool pictures with a covered wagon in the back ground.

One of the pretty pleasures of the desert before it hits 110 degrees.

Centering Pregnancy and Hypnobirthing

2010-05-25T15:00:00.000-07:00

When I first began to think about having a child, I also began a search for yoga studios in the area to help me get into the best shape possible. I found a studio close to our apartment and Terry agreed to join with me.

It was a smart decision...I have always loved yoga and have done it off and on for over 10 years. At the studio, they sell a book called Ina May's Guide to Childbirth, by Ina May Gaskin. Ina May is a midwife in Tennessee and has written several books about midwifery. From her Guide to Childbirth, I was introduced to the midwifery model of care and was fascinated by her stories. Since then, I have fallen in love with the concept of natural birth and knew I wanted to work with a midwife for my delivery. After asking around, I was referred to a wonderful OB clinic that also staffs very competent midwives. (Thanks, Tiffany!)

Ramona, my midwife, is a kind and capable woman. In lieu of regular visits, Terry and I attend a Centering Pregnancy group and meet with a group of couples that are due at the same time I am. We meet in the evening, get checked up by Ramona and then gather together to hear a speaker talk about breastfeeding, nutrition or Hypnobirthing. A big plus is that there is always food! It has been a good way to meet other couples in the same situation and Terry has been a good sport about coming along, although I'm sure he'd rather be elsewhere on a Tuesday night!

At our last meeting, Lucy, a Hypnobirthing instructor, came to talk to us about a method of birthing that is designed to promote relaxation and calmness during the birthing process. Sounds good to me! I'd actually already heard of Hypnobirthing and had already decided it was a good route for me to go. So, the timing couldn't have been better. I immediately signed up for classes and we had our first class last night. Again, Terry is being a great sport about it, because it is a big time commitment.

I am excited to learn all about it and have heard very positive things about the method from several friends who have used it for their deliveries.

Lucy had some great tips about working with the nurses at the hospital too! Who knew bribing nurses with cookies would be so effective???? On my check list before I leave for the hospital I will definitely remember to bring some treats.

At 26 weeks, I am about to enter my last trimester. I'm a little nervous but so glad I still have time to plan and prepare.

Trip to New York

2010-04-30T07:51:00.000-07:00

Ava and Mommy sitting on a bench outside Central Park. Arden is hiding under Mommy's wrap.

Ava, the princess. She is so lovely.

Ava and Auntie Michelle in Central Park.

At the Museum of Natural History

Say "Cheese!"

One of the great joys in life is being an aunt. I was recently reminded of this when I visited my sister in Manhattan, who had her second child about a month ago.

They had just moved to NY for a new job and were still adjusting to the new pace of life in a big city. With half the space they used to have, life in NY definitely requires a lot of flexibility! I was so happy to be visiting them in their new home. I visited my sister when she had her first child and this visit was particularly special to me because I knew it might be the last time I would be able to help her with her newborns.

I loved every moment of holding Arden in my arms. Louise thought she was a really fussy, high maintenance baby, who needed to be held constantly. I didn't mind. There is no sweeter feeling than holding a newborn to your chest. It was especially cute to see her head bobbing around like a little turtle when she was hungry and searching for a breast. I just fell in love with her and loved every second I spent with her in my arms.

Most of my time was spent with Ava, her older sister. I also fell in love with Ava the moment I met her and have been obsessed with her ever since. She is the most wonderful little two year old in the world. Everything she does or says is the cutest or most hilarious thing you've seen or heard. I am envious that she is not my own daughter but mostly overjoyed that she will always be part of my life. She is also absolutely gorgeous and Arden is a stunner too.

I miss them terribly already and am not sure I can wait the many months it will be before I'll see them again. By then, I will have my own child and Terry and Louise have been assuring me that my own little boy will fill this void. It is difficult to not get attached to little children. I only wish we lived in the same city.

It's a...boy!!!!!!!

2010-04-08T14:08:00.000-07:00

Terry and I are happy to announce that we will be having a baby boy.

We are so excited and happy that so far, everything is looking good and that our son is alive and well! I guess that is all that really matters to us. Neither of us were hoping for one or the other but we had both been imagining our first child as a boy and so it would have been a big surprise if we had found out we were having a girl!

I was very nervous--I haven't felt any movement yet and I'm already 19 weeks along. All I really wanted was to know that the baby was ok! The technician assured me that the baby was moving around--in fact, he was so wiggly she was having a hard time getting some of the pictures.

I know, we're so corny! Terry made these cute signs for us to hold up after finding out the gender. He is such a cute man! I hope our son takes after his father. I plan on raising the next J.J. Reddick.

Happy parents to-be.

My sister recently gave birth to a beautiful girl named Arden Margaret. Can't wait to meet her when I visit them in NY! T and I are also expecting another niece to come along in the next few days. Exciting!

House hunting...the pits!

2010-03-23T18:14:00.001-07:00

Terry and I have been in the market for a new home for a few weeks now. Ever since we received the good news that he would be able to keep his job, we have felt like it was time to begin our search for a home and establish our roots for good.

Well, we kind of fell in love with the second house we saw. I had no idea we would find something we liked so quickly...but there was something about the home that instantly drew itself to us. It had everything we were looking for, plus a good size backyard and a beautiful swimming pool for those hot summer nights. Best of all, it is located in a really good neighborhood and in an area that we absolutely adore.

After a week of thinking it through and looking at other homes, we reached the conclusion that we wanted to give an offer to this one home where we could see ourselves raising our children. In my fantasy imagined the owners shouting for joy that they had found such great buyers and accepting the offer immediately--we would close quickly, do some minor remodeling, move in and live happily ever after.

Not even close. The owners would hardly budge on the selling price, which we thought was ridiculous. Don't they know what kind of market we're in!? Apparently not. For all its virtues, the home is still not worth what they are asking for and after some back and forth discussion, it was apparent things weren't going to turn out the way we had hoped.

I have tried to not be in a state of depression over this home. It is a little unfortunate we grew so attached...but isn't that what you're supposed to do when you find a home you like and put in an offer to purchase it? I could hardly see anyone buying a home that they couldn't first imagine themselves in.

At this point, we don't know what's going to happen. It could stay on the market and the owners might realize the errors of their ways and agree after a few months to lower the price. Or it could become a short sale and that could take several months too. Either way, we will have to wait, much longer than we really want to, before we know what will happen.

I guess in the mean time we will just start looking at other homes. After all, this one isn't perfect and I did feel like we would have to make a few compromises to live there. For example, the only way to the laundry room is through the master bedroom. It's not a serious flaw, but it is a little inconvenient.

I know all of you who own homes are probably laughing because you understand exactly what we're going through. It is very naive to think that the home buying process would go smoothly and quickly. But when you find that one special home...it's so hard to not get attached! Don't you agree? :)

p.s. I'm finally getting a little stomach!

Renaissance Festival 2010

2010-03-06T14:16:00.000-08:00

Ladies of the Court

Big turkey leg

Renaissance fairie

Captain Jack Sparrow

See you next year!

Budget Cuts...Resolved!

2010-03-04T19:09:00.000-08:00

Over the past few months Terry and I have been anxiously waiting to hear the verdict on the proposed budget cuts from the City. Unfortunately, being low on the totem pole meant Terry would be part of the group of officers being laid off. While we were concerned, we weren't freaking out. Terry was somehow confident everything would work out well, no matter what. We knew that if T lost his job, we would probably move elsewhere, where there are opportunities for someone in his field. Like California.

There was just something about it that didn't seem right. We had specifically moved here for Terry's job and have loved every minute of it. We love the sunny weather, the palm trees, the golf courses, and the people we've met. When we first arrived, I thought, I can live here for a really long time. So when the possibility of moving came upon us, I wasn't exactly thrilled with the prospect.

Our family has been very generous, kindly offering extra rooms and basements, just in case we needed a place to stay. (Thanks, Mom and Dad!) While I prefer my mother's cooking to anyone else's, moving in with the parents wasn't exactly appealing. I would feel like...such a loser. Well, maybe not a loser (no one can help it if they get laid off!) but you know what I mean.

Fortunately, we've recently received the good news that NO officers will lose their jobs. This whole episode has been highly publicized and very political. It really gave everyone a scare, but in the end the City was somehow able to figure. We are relieved and I am so glad that at least for now, we don't have to move into a tiny little apartment in an expensive city, like my sister has recently had to when her husband found a job in Manhattan. Talk about stressful.

Overall, we are pleased to be able to stay here, a city we have grown to love and think of as home. It's a beautiful place with so much to offer and we wouldn't want to live anywhere else!

A little baby on its way...

2010-02-12T13:09:00.000-08:00

Terry and I are very pleased to announce an addition to our family...a little baby. We are very excited to be parents and had a hard time keeping it a secret!

I will be twelve weeks along on Tuesday, so I'm almost done with my first trimester. Yeah!

Fortunately, the pregnancy has been great so far. If all my pregnancies were like this, I wouldn't mind having twelve kids! j/k. (Terry, forget I said that.)

Some of the benefits of being pregnant: clearer skin, thicker hair, a good excuse for getting out of something you don't want to do.

Some of the annoyances of being pregnant: constant thirst, waking up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom, fatigue.

New Year, New Job

2010-01-26T14:35:00.000-08:00

Knowing when to leave a certain situation or place has always been difficult for me. Goodbyes are definitely hard, especially when you feel like you are walking into the "unknown". I definitely like security. But when I came back to work after the holiday break, I knew it was time for an IMMEDIATE change.

Over the holidays I had a lot of time to think and couldn't help but feel a heavy weight on my shoulders every time I thought about work. It just left me with a feeling of dread. So when I arrived back at work, I knew I needed to make some decisions.

Unfortunately, with the job market the way it is, I knew my prospects were dim. However, you can never underestimate the power of networking! A few months ago I emailed a professional speaker named Paula Fellingham to ask her for something related to work and she responded and told me about her new company, The Women's Information Network. When I checked out the website, I was very impressed and remember thinking that it was a company I would LOVE to work for.

When I made the decision to leave iLearningGlobal, I was desperate to find something very soon. As I was praying for help, the thought came to me to email Paula and ask for job openings at her company. I knew it was a shot in the dark, but it was worth a try. To my complete delight, she responded the next day, excited and interested in interviewing me! I was absolutely thrilled and from there, we exchanged emails and agreed to a phone interview.

Luckily, I got the job and Paula wanted me to start immediately. Our interview was on Friday and she wanted me to start on Monday! Not much time to think! So, I talked to my boss, packed up my bags and left.

I've been with The WIN for two weeks now and am working from home. It's an ideal situation but I did take a significant pay cut. I guess I've learned in life that happiness is more important than security. Terry, being the wonderful husband that he is, has been extremely supportive and so have the rest of my family. We all know how having a job you love is worth its weight in gold, even if it is not financially rewarding at first.

I wish iLearningGlobal all the best but am excited for the opportunities The WIN will bring. It has a very promising future and best of all, the leadership and team are great. I feel very blessed that I received an answer to my prayers so quickly. They have made me "Director of Communications". Fancy title, I know, but it's not uncommon with start-ups.

Check it out! www.thewinonline.com

Here's to a great new year with exciting new opportunities ahead!

Christmas Time 2009

2009-12-30T10:26:00.001-08:00

Terry and I were fortunate enough to have my sister and her family spend a few days with us in Phoenix. Here I am with my niece Ava.

Let me tell you, Ava can't take a bad picture! She is an unbelievably gorgeous girl with deep blue eyes, porcelain skin and light hair. Here we are at the zoo. Ava loves animals and loves going to the zoo and talks about it constantly! We are petting the goats here.

We had a lot of fun at the zoo. Ava especially loved the chimpanzees, the elephants, the monkeys and the fish.

This is my sister and her family. When Ava poses for a picture, she opens her mouth wide and closes the eyes and yells, "Cheeeeese!" It's so cute. They are by the fountain in downtown Scottsdale.
Terry with his lovely niece. Ava loves her uncle.

Me and Ava at The Farm at South Mountain. We had breakfast there and spent the morning walking around, looking at the chickens and making Christmas decorations at The Cottage. Ava had fun running around on the grass and making a clay snowman. What a delightful day!

Beautiful Nieces

2009-12-10T14:30:00.000-08:00

Dixie Mae

Congratulations to Sean and Eve, who welcomed the best Christmas gift of all, a new born baby girl named Dixie Mae. Terry forwarded a picture of a smiling Eve, holding her precious daughter in her arms. She looked relaxed and happy, not like she'd just been in labor! Good for you, Eve, for pulling off labor so gracefully! We'll have to get a full report of how everything went. We're very excited to meet little Dixie Mae.

The good news is, we'll be welcoming more beautiful nieces in the near future. My sister is also pregnant with a girl and my other sister in law is also expecting a little girl. Little girls are so fun to dress! I always wonder how the kids will look. Will the baby have blue eyes or brown eyes? Will the baby have brown hair or blond hair? The Werners always seem to have blond babies with hair that gets darker with age.

My sister will be coming for a visit soon and bringing her little daughter, the adorable Ava. Terry and I loved Ava the moment we met her and we just can't seem to get enough of her! She is sweet, sassy and loves to play. Louise taught her sign language and she likes to make up her own words ("hair" is "hanna" in her language). Overall, we think she is a wonderful little girl. And considering how well Ava turned out, we expect Louise's second baby to be equally gorgeous and wonderful. We can't wait!

Adrienne will also be welcoming her first daughter next year. I'm sure Sam will be a great older brother and that Rob is very excited!

Richard Armitage...Hot British Actor

2009-12-04T12:44:00.001-08:00

I have a thing for British actors. I guess it began when I realized how much I love BBC movies because BBC movies are full of gorgeous men. I mean, why else would women be so crazy about BBC?

Richard Armitage is my favorite. I first discovered Richard when my sister Lorina introduced me to the movie North and South. It's a period film, set in England and it's unbelievably romantic. There's lots of drama and sexual tension and in true Pride and Prejudice fashion, the main character, Margaret Hale, hates the tough cotton mill owner, John Thornton, who happens to be secretly in love with her. Very Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. But somehow, as certain events unfold and as she sees him in his true light, Margaret begins to think differently about Mr. Thornton and realizes she is in love with him. Ooohhhh! It's just so romantic I could watch it over and over again.

I think part of the reason why I love RA is because he reminds me of Terry. Tall, thin, blue eyes, dark hair. He seems to be well known in England and from what I've seen, is an exceptional actor.

I looked him up on the internet the other day and found a fansite called The Armitage Army. www.thearmitagearmy.co.uk. I guess there are women in England who are obsessed enough that they would put a whole lot of time into maintaining a website dedicated solely to him and his work. He writes messages to them every once in a while and his letters are witty, intelligent and down to earth.

To me, he is like a cross between Hugh Jackman and Daniel Radcliffe plus twenty years.

British actors...I adore you! There is something about the artistry in their acting and their strong background in theater that makes them so compelling as actors on film.

Some of my favorites:

Richard Armitage (North and South, Robin Hood)

Daniel Craig (James Bond)

Hugh Dancy (Confessions of a Shopaholic, Ella Enchanted)

Rufus Sewell (A Knight's Tale, The Holiday)

Hugh Grant (Nottinghill, About a Boy)

Colin Firth (Pride and Prejudice)

Clive Owen (Elizabeth)

Other actors I like who are not British but have an accent and are also gorgeous:

Eric Bana (The Other Boleyn Girl)

Hugh Jackman (Australia)

Sedona and the Grand Canyon

2009-11-17T09:04:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures of our quick trip to the Grand Canyon and Sedona. Let's see if anyone can guess how cold it was while we were there. I'll give you a hint. I had five layers of cloths on. This picture was taken along the Bright Angel Trail, reputably the "easiest" trail of the Grand Canyon. We were warned ahead of time "to be very careful!", as someone died just a few days before as they were hiking. How sad! I guess people underestimate the rigors of hiking the Grand Canyon and don't adequately prepare themselves with water and food. While we were there, we saw a poster about a girl who was an incredible athlete and ran the Boston Marathon yet died of dehydration while hiking the Grand Canyon. After reading this tragic story, we decided to cut our hike short and turn back. Just kidding. But seriously, we didn't go far.
This was taken in Sedona. Sedona is gorgeous! Unbelievably peaceful and beautiful. As we stood on a hilltop, we saw people around us quietly enjoying the serenity and sitting in silent meditation. We were laughing and talking loudly. I guess we didn't fit in there.
My coworker Glen warned me it would be freezing cold at the Grand Canyon. In spite of the repeated warnings and my dutifully checking the weather online, I still forgot to bring my winter stuff. Everyone did. We made a pitstop at Target in Flagstaff before heading into Tuyasan. When Glen saw me on Monday morning, I wouldn't give him the satisfaction of telling me, "I told you so!" When he asked me if it was cold, I shrugged my shoulders and replied, "Yeah, but we were prepared." Ha!
View from Mather Point.
Here we are with Russell and Angela Binning, Michelle's parents. It was a fun trip. Russell was over-zealous about hiking the trail and insisted we come back next year to hike to the Colorado River with the entire family. I think I should mention here he nearly had a heart attack on the way back up the trail, although we had only been hiking for 30 minutes. Dare we hike all the way down to the bottom with Dad? Who will be able to carry him if he gets tired? My father is such an adventurer! We spent 20 minutes looking for him when he took off to go on a bathroom break and didn't come back.

Overall, it was a awesome trip and we really enjoyed the time we spent with family and friends. My mother's friend Jenny organized the trip and did a fantastic job of planning everything and making sure it all went smoothly. During the trip we ate some great food, my personal favorite being the Himalayan Grill, a Tibetan, Nepali, Indian restaurant. Terry ordered his favorite, the peshawari nan, a sweet bread stuffed with nuts and coconut. We just can't get enough of that stuff!

While eating we launched into a discussion of how annoying it is when Taiwanese people expect you to be perfect and skinny all the time to the best places to travel in Europe. I still dream about going to England so that I can feel like I'm in a BBC movie, but it's hard to commit to any travel plans right now. Nevertheless, Jenny, who's basically traveled everywhere, was the perfect person to talk to about traveling.

Terry and I hope to go back to Sedona again soon. I liked the Grand Canyon, but once you've seen it once or twice, that's good enough.

Desperate Housewives

2009-11-11T11:11:00.000-08:00

I recently overcame a minor obsession with the show Desperate Housewives. Since I still live in the Dark Ages, I didn't realize you could watch past episodes of shows on the network's website until very recently.

When I discovered this fact, I casually decided to watch the latest episode of Season Six, not thinking it was going to be a big deal. I had always heard about the show's popularity, but since I'm not usually one to make time for TV, it hasn't been a priority for me to keep up with the hottest and highest rated series.

Well, one episode was all it took. I naively thought watching one episode wouldn't do me any harm...I had no idea what was in store for me!

Here's what happened in a recent episode: Julie is strangled by a unknown assailant while taking out the trash and discovered, lying unconsciously, on the lawn the next morning by a neighbor who was taking a morning walk with her lover; while lying in a coma on a hospital bed, Julie's pregnancy is announced out of the blue by Lynette, who is also trying to hide a pregnancy of her own to avoid discrimination at work. Meanwhile, Bree is desperate to find a way out of her loveless marriage and begins sleeping with Susan's ex-husband, Karl, knowing her best friend will never speak to her again if she finds out. Susan is trying to come to grips with the fact not only was her daughter dangerously and maliciously attacked, she is also pregnant by her boyfriend, a relationship Julie was hiding from Susan, and who also happens to be a married man! Susan, convinced it was the boy from across the street that tried to kill her daughter, warns everyone in the neighborhood about him and comes close to getting beat up by his mother. At the same time, she has to deal with the bitter and heartsick, Katherine, who is convinced Mike still has feelings for her and takes every opportunity to seduce him, a man who Susan married for the second time the night before! Oh, the drama never stops!

I will admit part of my obsession for the show had a lot to do with Mike Delfino, the steamy hot plumber and Susan's husband. All I can say is that he is a sexy and gorgeous man and we'll leave it at that.

Once I watched one episode, I had to of course watch the previous episode to understand what was really going on, and that eventually led me to Season 1 and a desire to put all the pieces of the puzzle together. With minimal and short commercial breaks, it was a naughty indulgence I couldn't seem to shake. Every day I itched to watch another episode, promising myself I would stop at "just one", only to sadly disappoint myself when I quickly moved along to the next episode. My disappointment, however, would be short-lived, as it would soon be replaced by a happy feeling of contentment and relief that I would have another opportunity to see what was going to happen next.

On the weekends I tried to escape the urge to spend all day watching one episode after the other and by Monday I was practically going through withdrawals. Feelings of longing soon lead to feelings of desperation. Eventually, I would give in but the pain was too much. It had to stop! Finally, I had had enough! I wasn't going to let a silly show like Desperate Houswives take over my life! This was ridiculous! No more Desperate Housewives!

As you can see, I am quite the drama queen. Perfectly suited to a show like Desperate Housewives. Like all of my obsessions, this one was intense and short-lived. Being a highly sensitive person, I don't have a strong tolerance for addiction, as it makes me unhappy. So, I am happy to report I have cured myself over my recent obsession and will no longer drool over Mike Delfino. While I am sad about bidding adieu to my new friends Susan, Lynette, Bree and Gabby, I've decided in the long run I would be better off without being exposed to the dysfunction and drama of Wisteria Lane. (This is not to say I won't sneak a quick peek at the latest gossip in that neighborhood every now and then.)

My sister, Louise, who agrees that I am about five years behind everybody else in trendy and cool things, is also a fan of Desperate Housewives. Except she started watching the show years ago--like, when it first came out. She tells me there's a new show called "Glee" and "everybody's talking about it!" It's about an over-zealous and ambitious high school glee club, whose members burst into songs that are creatively arranged and beautifully sung as they go about their day. The club is vying for a state championship. A scheming teacher jeopardizes them at every opportunity. Sounds like a recipe for a delightfully fun show.

Louise tells me to watch the pilot. Dare I? As a broadway enthusiast, this show may be dangerously up my alley. I don't think I'll take my chances, but I'll probably one day stumble upon an episode and start raving about it only to discover everyone else has been watching it for years.

Halloween Party

2009-11-02T14:10:00.001-08:00

This is what Halloween looks like in the Werner house when you have five minutes to come up with costumes. I turned out to be the clean shaven shepherd and Michelle is the ghetto dance
Michelle found a look a like at the Halloween party.
I was going to where a fake black beard and dark glasses but decided against it seeing that I could be mistaken for a terrorist.

A night in Scottsdale

2009-10-27T20:11:00.001-07:00

Terry's Birthday

2009-10-13T15:09:00.001-07:00

Michelle and I celebrated my 32nd birthday this past weekend. Man, I just feel like the Father of "My Big Fat Geek Wedding" just told me that I'm OLD. Michelle made me homemade pizza and and bought me some Clint Eastwood movies. Somehow she knew I would be very pleased with such a gift.

Michelle cannot understand why I love westerns but she knows a good gift when she sees it. I kind of look like him don't I ?????
Don't worry kids its not loaded.

2009-09-22T16:33:00.001-07:00

Michelle and I recentley returned from Oahu, Hawaii. Needless to say, we loved it!!!

The view overlooking Hanauma Bay. Gorgeous! Terry loved the snorkeling and has a red back to prove it!
Which beach is this? Hanauma? Kailua Beach? Getting out of the water is so cold!
I love plumerias! This is me at the Pearl Harbor Memorial Center. There were several plumeria trees and I couldn't help making a small bouquet
The Polynesian Cultural Center is the bomb! I think this is a picture with a girl from Fiji. Or maybe it was Samoa.
We saw these parrots on the streets of Waikiki and had to take a picture with them!

iLearningGlobal's resident blogger

2009-08-20T16:12:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true. I am now the resident blogger at my company. It sounds like a joke because I am TERRIBLE at keeping my own blog current, but I guess no one at work knew that when they gave me my new position. I am now the corporate communications girl and sniff, sniff, no longer work with my beloved faculty. I will admit this is probably the best thing for the company, since they needed someone to be in charge of the communications and since there is no one else (we are pretty lean), they gave the position to me.

I am quite happy I will be improving my writing skills, since writing and marketing are what I love anyway, but it has been difficult to give up my position as the faculty liaison, a role I really thrived in. I don't have any bad feelings about the changes, but I wish there was a little more to do. I know that summers are traditionally kind of dead in multi-level marketing, but I also feel like we should be creating our own momentum and energy to get things going. I guess I will just have to be patient as I settle into my new role because I'm sure eventually there will be exciting marketing campaigns and emails to write! For now, I am tweeting and blogging daily on our company blog and it's been pretty fun. I know that communications was a missing component in our relationship with the marketers, so it makes me feel good to know that I am doing something important for the marketers' business.

Terry is excited to finish his detective class in a month. We are both looking forward to our Hawaii trip coming up in a few months. We just bought a new car after my wreck and we are still undecided about buying a house. Terry wants to wait until next year. I think it makes sense because housing values keep dropping, but it would still be nice to have a gameplan in place too. We seem to get excited about looking for a house, only to say a few days later that we should wait until next year before being serious about it. It's kind of frustrating, but not a big deal. Our one bedroom apartment is not too bad!

Terry works a lot, so I spend my alone time doing other things. When I tell people this, they seem worried that I'm lonely or something. Just the opposite! I love my alone time. I spend most of my time reading and watching those charming, romantic BBC movies. I just watched the first few episodes of Cranford last weekend. I loved it! I can't wait for the next DVD. Netflix...it's the best!

My 10 year high school reunion is coming up. I just found out about it today from an old high school friend that I connected with recently on facebook. There's a part of me that really wants to go; I have a few friends I'd love to see again, but at the same time I'm afraid of feeling awkward because I only attended Centennial HS for a year. My high school years weren't the best, but graduating from Centennial was a great experience. Such nice people. Should I go? Should I not go? I'll talk to Terry about it tonight.

Horse Back Riding

2009-07-22T16:30:00.001-07:00

Michelle's family and I went on a horseback riding trip down in Tucson. Luckily it was very pleasant outside when we went. It wasn't 150 degrees like it is now!!!

Mountain Park Stables
Victor's happy face!!!!!
Michelle is now thinking about buying a farm!!!
The last known picture of Lorina and Michelle in 2009
Yes, I am wearing my cowboy hat

San Francisco Trip

2009-06-29T13:19:00.001-07:00

These are some pictures we took while we were out for Rob and Adrienne's wedding. We visited the Japanese Gardens, Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf and the Asia Museum. We had a great time! Although this may be our last trip to San Fran for a long time.

The Japanese Gardens.

Our future home.

The Exploratoruim was closed so we had to make do walking around the ruins

Yes, this is the Golden Gate Bridge and yes we are freezing

Good old Fisherman's Wharf.

No Bake Cookies

2009-06-21T13:05:00.000-07:00

Our primary class loves our No Bake Cookies! We use it to bribe them to be good in class! So far, it is working...We promised we would post the recipe on our blog so that they can also make it at home.

No Bake Cookies

4 cups sugar
6 Tablespoon cocoa
1 cup milk
2 cubes margarine

Mix the above ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil for 1 minute. Let mixture cool for several minutes.

6 cups rolled oats
2 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup peanut butter

Place the above items in a large bowl and pour chocolate mixture over it and stir until blended. Drop by spoonfuls onto waxed paper. Cool and enjoy!

Rob & Adrienne's Wedding

2009-06-09T12:00:00.001-07:00

Congratulation Rob and Adrienne.
We have known Gail for more than fifteen years. It is great to still have such a good friend.
Mom and Dad are surrounded by their daughters-in-laws. Very nice additions to our family.
View of the bay area.
The Werner Boys.

A day at the Mesa Temple

2009-05-27T09:28:00.001-07:00

Congratulations Lorina!!
Victor spent the afternoon teaching Ava how to properly drink out of a plastic cup.
Ava is tired after eating Victor's chilly dogs.
Time for a taste of Taiwan.

The secret of having fun!!!

2009-05-27T09:09:00.000-07:00

Sonora Desert Museum

2009-05-27T08:08:00.001-07:00

Weekend in Tuscon
Michelle's true love is to one day dig up old dinosaur bones.
Arizona-Sonora Desert
Where is Victor's hat? Can you find it?
The water fountain gives this dinosaur leg a real life feel. Don't you think?

2009-05-04T12:30:00.001-07:00

Our big fat greek Tempe festival.Michelle is wondering why she is sharing this food with me.
Pork right off the stick
Ryan is really glad to have me as a friend.

Another crazy video...

2009-04-21T15:04:00.000-07:00

So do you all remember the crazy practical joke my coworkers Chris and Joel played on me when I was still working at MonaVie? Where they posted a video of my hip hop recital on Youtube, and pretended to have no idea how it got there when they showed me the video?

Anyway, there must be something about coworkers posting videos of me on Youtube, because here is ANOTHER video, posted by my coworker JD. It was created from footage of me at our November 2008 Conference. I was sitting in the audience and he thought the expressions on my face were hilarious and put it to music.

So, here it is. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tm3jlqBnsnY

2009-04-14T08:18:00.000-07:00

This Picture Speaks for itself!!!
Don't mind that green thing stuck in my teeth
One of the best Pizzas in American
Michelle modeling the menu

Viva Las Vegas!!!!

2009-03-23T18:45:00.001-07:00

Dan Caro, jazz musician

Barbara Niven, Hollywood actress and Julie Thong, Khmer Rouge survivor

Charlie's Angels!

John Gray, Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus

Bill Bartmann, Billionaire

2009-03-23T10:00:00.001-07:00

Here are the latest pictures of Michelle living the dream in Las Vegas.

Whats Cooking

2009-03-15T19:05:00.000-07:00

I will admit to the world that Michelle does let me have pizza once in a while. However, it has to be fresh with as many healthy things on it as one can find. Thus was our Sunday evening dinner. It turned out really good. Making the pizza was time well spent and we got to chow down on delicious pizza. Other news on the Werner front.
Michelle and I are still debating the house idea. We want to take advantage of the Grant money that has been laid out for first time home buyers. Might as well take advantage of that stimulus money while its there. The question is however, what good would that grant do if the value of the house drops $10,000 the following month after you purchase it. Who knows?
I finally finished my training and have been assigned to my new squad. Time has really been flying by as we have been working a lot. I can't believe we are already coming up on our second summer here in Phoenix. We are really loving it here and hope to be here for a while.
I am almost done reading the trilogy of the Lord of the Rings. I can't help the fact that I love fictional books. We have not hooked up cable yet so we have had plenty of time to read. Michelle just started a new book on Native Americans. She enjoys reading as much as I do but she focuses on more fictional books. I can't understand why she wouldn't want to read about trolls, goblins and elves.
We hope everyone is doing well.

2009-03-02T08:58:00.000-08:00

To whom it may concern,
Michelle and I are doing well. She has being working hard at her job and comes home very tired each night. She always seems to have enough energy to cook something up in the kitchen that is always delicious. Michelle has convention in a couple of weeks and will be going to Las Vegas for a couple of days. It looks like I will have to live on Little Caesars Pizza and Cheerios for a while until she returns. I seriously wonder sometimes, how I didn't starve to death before I got married. The food that she cooks is always good and its always healthy.
Michelle and I have also been doing a lot of thinking about buying a home. It is a decision that we have been putting a lot of time and energy into making. Questions like, where should we live? or how much room do we need? or should we live far away from the city and buy a bigger house for less or buy a smaller house and live closer to the city and spend more. Decisions, decisions.
I'm still leaning the ropes of becoming a phoenix police officer. I have just recently started going out on patrol solo and I love it. I know I still have a lot to learn but its nice not having a trainer look over my shoulder all the time to make sure I don't mess up. I should find out my new schedule in a few weeks which may be all over the place during crazy ours.

2009-01-19T12:10:00.000-08:00

Crazy Blue Glass Sculptures

Michelle and Terry's Scary Faces

More Sculptures that are red

Michelle's favorite thing to do when she is not slaving over me

Cutest picture ever

2008-12-09T11:52:00.000-08:00

Email is down at work, so I thought I would blog. Terry has berated me for paying so little attention to our blog. We both think it's funny that he blogs more often than I do--one of the few men who actually blogs more than the wife! Does everyone also know that Terry LOVES Pride and Prejudice? The four hour version. I think I've teased him one too many times about this and just to spite me, he will stop watching it. I love my manly husband who is comfortable enough with his masculinity that he doesn't mind taking ballroom dance lessons with his wife. And he cooks, cleans, and does the laundry! I'm a lucky girl.

Terry is now in field training and I am so happy for us both that he is finally done with the Academy! He's going to make a terrific cop.

My niece Ava is a gorgeous little girl. Everyone fights over who gets to hold her. It's still difficult for me to think of Louise as a mother, but she is an amazing mom. Very attentive and selfless. Ava is a diva--but then again, she is half Binning, so there's no surprise there. I love watching her do her tricks. She is like a little trained puppy and it's so cute. I hope Terry and I will have a cute baby too. But hopefully one who will be more low maintenance.

Old Tucson

2008-12-02T17:51:00.000-08:00

I'm just happy the Police Academy is finished!!!!

Michelle is helping our little niece Ava play with a goat.

Victor is the bull riding champion.

She is just a cute little lady!!!

2008-11-27T16:20:00.000-08:00

How did these guys become police officers???
Mom and Dad happy that I'm finally out of their house!!!
She's happy I got a job

Ryan and Amy came to my graduation which was a surprise

Halloween Party

2008-11-01T08:34:00.000-07:00

Excessive happiness in not allowed!!!

Michelle starts throwing up gang signs when she gets into a basketball uniform.

See if you can find the ghetto basketball player?

Making Time For Fun

2008-10-19T08:37:00.001-07:00

Michelle and I have been keeping very busy out here. Fortunately, we have found some free time to get out and visit some different areas around Phoenix. We have gone to some different lakes to swim and boat. Michelle loves the water here because it is so warm. We've gone camping and visited a Ghost Town. The Ghost Town was pretty fun and while we were there we went through an abandoned mine. We would go swimming in the community pool More but last time I did that I was ck for a week. Hope everyone is doing well!!!

Random Pictures

2008-10-14T18:37:00.000-07:00

Our camping trip

Michelle enjoys torturing me

I think I am going to have Michelle buy this dress

Pepper spray dosen't hurt as much as people say

Michelle's masterpiece!!!

2008-10-12T11:29:00.000-07:00

Don't know why I haven't blogged!

2008-10-07T16:16:00.000-07:00

It's been over a month since we last blogged and I don't know why I kept dragging my feet. I guess life has been busy and we've both been so focused on other things that we kind of forgot.

Well, Terry has another two months of the Academy to complete. He can't wait. The Academy is a tough, mean place where the trainers yell and humiliate you at every opportunity. It can be embarrassing and annoying. I know I wouldn't last a week. The trainers bully and pick on anyone they possibly can and Terry has told me he can safely say he will never have good day at the Academy. What a strange place. But I guess it's necessary. I mean, how else are the recruits going to learn to be tough? Luckily Terry already had a lot of training from growing up in the hood!

Terry has also lost his little belly. Great. Now there's one less thing I can tease him about. No, he's really in great shape and running the trails of South Mountain in the mornings with the rest of the police recruits. No fair. I mean, getting paid to exercise? It doesn't get any better than that.

But it's not to say I'm not also getting in great shape. I joined LA Boxing a few weeks ago and have been working out four times a week! I'm pretty proud of myself, even though it's still hard to get out of bed. What a lazy butt I am! LA Boxing offers great boxing classes and my instructor in the mornings pushes us really hard. It is better than the one in Orem and I'm so glad I finally found a gym that has morning classes at a reasonable hour. All of the gyms around here started their classes at 5:30am! That means I'd have to be up before 5am! There's no way I could do that. I admire anyone who can. Like Terry. I'm very proud of Terry waking up at 4:30 most mornings. I'm not sure how he does it.

Terry and I went for a walk around the hills by our apartment on Sunday. What a cool place! We saw people biking and hiking on the trails and can't wait to find some time where we'll also be able to explore the area. We really live in a spectacular place that is a wonderful blend of city life and nature. What lucky people we are.

As for my job, it is going well. I do like it, even though our office is kind of small and so there isn't a lot of socializing going on. Not like at MonaVie, where we spent most of our lunches talking and laughing. I miss MonaVie. I need to find a job where I get paid to travel to cool places. I think fondly of the time I worked there.

This weekend Terry and I will take my brother Victor to our ward campout at Canyon Lake. We can't wait! Last time we went to the lake it was a blast, even if we did all get sunburned and spent three hours trying to cut the rope that was tangled in the propeller. What a nightmare. Hopefully this time we'll be able to play a little bit more in the water without having any emergencies. Victor got hit in the forehead by a wakeboard that wasn't tightly secured and it put a deep gash right above the eye, poor guy. Then there was the fiasco with Mom dropping the rope that was tied to the tube, which got stuck around the propeller and stopped all of our fun. The boys spent about 3 hours trying to cut the rope which we borrowed from another boat and we ended up asking them to drag us back to shore. Part way there the rope that was dragging us broke. In the end, the Coast Guard found us and hauled us back.

I promise, pictures next time!

Having a Nice Relaxing Dinner

2008-08-24T16:54:00.000-07:00

Michelle and I just gave some talks at church today. Michelle did such a goo job. I always admire how well she speaks and expresses herself. I am Mr. cut and paste man and just read it straight from the paper. Our lives have become very busy so we decided to cook ourselves some nice steak sandwiches. I got to help Michelle start the fire. Michelle has cooked a lot of meals recently and which have been amazing. I never new she could cook so well. Wow!!! I am still attending the academy (yes, most of you thought I would be kicked out by now) and it has slowly been getting a little easier. I am still doing lot of classwork which is pretty excruciating but we are going to start doing defensive tactics, gun training and driving police vehicles pretty soon so it is get more exciting.

Starting work tomorrow

2008-08-19T09:33:00.000-07:00

Last week a friend I worked with at MonaVie called me and basically offered me a job. At first I didn't know what to think. I knew nothing about the company except that it was a start-up and an MLM. I agreed to meet with him at his office in Mesa in a few days.

That night, I thought about this company and job offer and just wasn't sure how I felt about it. I had pictured myself at a company that was a little bit more well established, I guess, and perhaps something a little more cosmopolitan. The words "start-up" creates images in my mind of a struggling company with barely any money situated in a tiny, rundown office.

Well, I was pleasantly surprised when I arrived at the office. First, it was in a nice business park. Second, the office was furnished with very expensive-looking decorations and furniture. Third, the whole idea behind the company and the product they sell sounded so appealing to me that within a few minutes I decided I would accept the job.

My friend, Glen, described the job to me. It sounds like I'll be wearing several different hats and I'm okay with it. I also met with the CEO and it sounds like the company is doing really well and growing like crazy.

Needless to say, I am excited to start work again, even if it will make life a little tougher for Terry. However, he is supportive and understanding and excited for me too. He was worried I would get bored at home (which, I can assure you, I was not getting bored).

I am excited for this new chapter to start in my life. It's a little frightening to start a new job, but since it is a small and new company, I think it's a good place to start. More than anything, I feel it is a little uncanny the way things have worked out. When I told everyone I was leaving MonaVie to move to Phoenix, Glen told me a few weeks later he was moving to Phoenix too for another job opportunity! It's uncanny because he worked at MonaVie for an even shorter period of time than I did and left sooner and also was moving to the Phoenix area.

I am very sad I was not able to stay at MonaVie longer. I loved my job there. I truly loved it. It was the best 5 months of my professional life and I will always be grateful for the experience of working there. But leaving MonaVie and moving to Arizona with Terry was the right thing to do, even if it meant giving up my dream job. Because I guess there are other things in store for me here.

New Home!

2008-07-31T10:42:00.000-07:00

So Terry and I are finally together in Phoenix. I must say that the weeks flew by and before I even knew it, I was saying goodbye to Utah and headed for Arizona. The journey was somewhat horrendous (waking up at 3:34 in the morning, getting a flat, and driving for 14 hours), but we made it! It wasn't fun but we didn't lose anything and it could have been much worse.

Once we got to our apartment a few people from the Elder's Quorum came by to help us unload. It turns out that there are a few people from our ward that live in the Pinnacle, one of them being a girl I went to school with! How fortunate to have a friend already!

Today is my birthday. A pretty good way to spend a birthday--in a new place where I have so much to see and people to meet. I think we're going to like it here, but of course it'll take a while to get situated and comfortable. I really think this is where we will stay for a long time, but I have all the time in the world to discover what makes Phoenix such a special place!

The weather really isn't that bad. I was expecting something really horrible but since I spend most of my time indoors, I don't feel the heat. And when I do go outside, it isn't any worse than Utah. Everyone kept warning me that I was moving at the worst time and if this is the worst, then bring it on! I guess I can take the heat. Terry told me last night, "I told you so!"

The apartment is a mess and kind of old, but I'm determined to make the most of it. We have hard wood floors, which is pretty and it is spacious for just two people, so I really don't have any room to complain. Except for the ants! And I do have to say that the first few days of living here, I felt itchy all over and kept sneezing. From the dust or is it allergies? Either way I will be scrubbing this place down really well so that there isn't a speck of dust or a single ant or insect anywhere!

We have boxes everywhere and lots of furniture we need to buy. But we don't want to spend a lot of money, so I guess we'll be checking out Craigslist and garage sales.

Terry has a really busy schedule and I spend a lot of time cooking and cleaning. Being a housewife sure is a tough job!

Our New Home

2008-07-10T18:23:00.000-07:00

This little apartment will be our home for at least the next year. It has amazing wood floors, washer/dryer and indoor plumbing. This place is state of the art. Well, it will be very comfortable for Michelle and I for a while while we get to know Phoenix.

Countdown to Phoenix

2008-07-09T13:19:00.000-07:00

So I leave in less than 3 weeks. I can't believe it. I guess I've just been here so long that it's hard to imagine living elsewhere!

Last Sunday I was released from my calling. I felt ok about it. I will miss the Young Women, but I didn't want to be all weepy and corny about leaving them, so I didn't make a big deal out of it. The girls are great, but I am easily replaced. I know they will love their new leader.

Terry moves into our new apartment tomorrow! I am so excited for him. It'll be hard not having any furniture until I get there, but at least it'll be our place that he's staying at. I set up the utilities and everything yesterday, so the move-in should be fairly easy for him. I know he's been working hard, trying to get everything ready for me to come. And he comes home this weekend! Fortunately, the separation hasn't been too bad. I think he's been keeping himself busy and I have definitely been busy with family in town and everything that's been going on. I know it'll be time for me to go to Phoenix before long.

I am excited for our Phoenix adventure!

Buzzed

2008-06-30T21:19:00.001-07:00

Who is that good looking man?

Terry, I miss you...

2008-06-30T16:04:00.000-07:00

Right now Terry is in Phoenix and I am still in Utah. For the first few days, I was doing great. Work was busy and life had been kind of chaotic with trips, family in town, and Girls Camp. So I was glad for some quiet time. But over the weekend I felt sad. I was walking around with a lump in my throat like I wanted to cry but had no idea why. I guess I am just happier when you're around, Terry. Hope you are doing ok there.

My coworkers played the most hilarious practical joke on me. They've known about my hip hop dance recital for a few months now and have threatened to attend. Last Thursday was my recital. Since I barely knew the dance and didn't want to embarrass myself, I only bought tickets for my in-laws and sister. I intentionally did not invite anyone else.

The next day, my coworker Joel suddenly asked, "Hey, is that your recital?" I walked over to his computer and sure enough, there was my hip hop dance on YouTube! I was completely surprised someone had posted it so soon, but even more surprised and even shocked when I realized that as the video went on, it started to focus more and more on me!

At first I thought that it must be my dance partner's husband that videotaped it. But after Natalie went in one direction and I went in the other, the camera still followed me. I and my coworkers couldn't believe it. What was going on? Was someone stalking me? This was so weird.

As Joel and I started sharing the video with more and more people, everyone that watched it also thought it was the weirdest thing ever. Finally, Joel and I show Chris, another coworker, the video. He couldn't believe it either. But then I remembered that his daughter was also in the dance recital and even though he had been telling me all along that he would be going another night, I started accusing him of filming me. And it turned out to be him! He admitted he was filming me from the front row! That rat! Everyone at the office had a really good laugh. I have to admit, that was the best practical joke ever!

Here is my dance video. Enjoy!

youtube.com/watch?v=EFvy0wxv5Sw

Our Phoenix Adventue Has Begun

2008-06-27T08:49:00.000-07:00

Michelle is always trying to eat my desserts. She is ready to snatch my Ben & Jerry ice cream right out of my hands.

I am in Phoenix now with Michelle right on my heals. She will be following me down in a couple of weeks while I start working for the city and find a place to live. The Academy will start in the end of July where I will find out what kind of man I really am.

Southern California Trip

2008-06-22T13:43:00.000-07:00

Michelle and I recently went down to Southern California where we stayed at the home of Jeff and Katrina Kirk. While we were there we attended a wedding of one of my old high school friends. It was traditionally Indian as the Husband and wife have roots from India. It was a great experience. The time that we were able to spend visiting California was really great as well. The beaches were beautiful and the weather was warm. Thanks Jeff and Katrina for allowing us to impose on your hospitality for a couple of days and congratulations on the new little Chippy.

Last Trip to Utah Lake

2008-06-22T07:40:00.000-07:00

Michelle, Victor, Lorina and I went out to beautiful Utah Lake to try out our wake boarding skills. Victor was able to get up a few times and will be jumping the wake in no time. Lorina, also got up a couple of times and is really looking confident out there. Michelle practiced driving the boat and learning how to pull people behind as people try to ski. I was her crash dummy and was treated as such. She was really starting to get the handle of driving the boat. Good job Michelle!!!

2008-05-26T08:58:00.000-07:00

2008-05-22T10:43:00.000-07:00

This is Michelle and I living the good life in Las Vegas.

2008-05-22T10:31:00.000-07:00

I'm turning into a country girl!

2008-05-20T15:36:00.000-07:00

I know my blog is lame because I don't have any pictures, but I ran out of memory on my sister's digital camera so I didn't have the chance to photograph much of Vancouver. I promise for the Orlando trip I will definitely have pictures!

Anyway, I returned on Sunday from my business trip to Vancouver. It was a wonderful trip! I can't say enough about how perfect the hotel was for me. We stayed at the Westin, which is known for its very comfortable beds, and it was located right by the marina, and I had a gorgeous view of the water and boats docked in the marina from my hotel window. The weather was also perfect--not cold and not hot, just comfortable! Vancouver has tons of beautiful flowers everywhere. I was surprised by how beautiful the city was. It truly is the perfect fusion of nature and city. The hotel was situated right outside of the seawall and Shelly and I were able to stroll along the walkway where there were shops, restaurants and bikers and strollers. The area was very relaxing and peaceful. Across the water was another city and it reminded me of San Francisco being right across the bridge from Sacramento. In spite of the beauty of Vancouver, I couldn't appreciate the city itself very much. There were some wonderful areas we discovered, like Yaletown, which is an area with warehouses that have been transformed into restaurants and shops. It's definitely a cool place, with fancy restaurants and boutiques. However, all cities seem the same after awhile. Vancouver just seemed really condensed--tiny streets with very little space in between them. And this is coming from a city girl! What am I turning into?

On Friday night we had dinner at Yahetown with some coworkers, at a Thai restaurant called Simply Thai. Even though it cost about $20 a person, I really didn't think the food was worth the money we spent and quite frankly, I have had better Thai food in Utah! I guess that was the most disappointing part of the trip--the amount of money we spent on food there. It just wasn't worth it. The worst meal I had during my trip was at a little cafe right across the street from our hotel. There was a sign outside of the store that advertised dim sum, which was what drew me to the place. It was, however, half Chinese trinket store and half cafe, and the food was not good at all.

The most money I spent for a meal on the trip was about $40. Shelly and I had wandered to Yaletown and we found a really nice restaurant called Goldfish that had kind of an outdoor atmosphere. The decor was very cool and sleek inside and since we were hungry, we decided to go in for dinner. I ordered some kind of fish and Shelly had chicken and unfortunately we were stupid enough to order distilled water and two bottles cost us $15.

On Saturday, after the event, we had Jim and others drop us off in Chinatown. Originally the plan was to wander around the nightmarkets, but stupidly enough, we were there at 4 in the afternoon. However, we didn't realize it was too early for the nightmarket until after they dropped us off, so we had no choice but to walk elsewhere. I figured since we had time to kill and hadn't had time to explore Vancouver yet, I wanted to make use of the time there and see the city. Unfortunately, we were already really tired from working all day--I was up at 5 in the morning to get ready for the event and my feet were killing me. So there we were, walking around with no clue as to where we were going. Before they left us, Ryan had warned us to avoid Hastings St, which was notorious for its drug abuse and homeless people. We didn't get very far before we saw some weird stuff going on. Shelly saw a man giving another some cash and it looked like there were some very questionable people walking around. It was kind of scary. Right before we could decide what we wanted to do, two men stopped and asked if we were lost and told us that it wasn't the best place to be. We asked them about Gastown, which we heard had cobblestone streets, and they told us to follow them. Along the way we passed a whole area full of homeless people. It was the weirdest place I had ever been, because the street corner was just full of homeless individuals. I tried not to look at them and it was a huge relieft when we passed the street corner and left Hastings St! From Gastown we tried to find Kino Cafe on Cambie St, a place Sarah told me had flamenco dancing and live music on weekends. We wandered down Cambie St and just couldn't seem to find it. I spotted an art gallery and we went inside and asked. Apparently Kino Cafe was all the way across the bridge! At that point I had decided I was too tired and was determined to stop walking and find something to eat. Coincidentally, we were right next to Yaletown, so we walked around and wandered in and out of shops until we decided to eat at Goldfish, our million dollar-a-meal restaurant.

After the meal, we took a taxi back to the hotel and then walked around the seawall (my favorite part of the day). Wandering aimlessly around the city and completely dehydrated is not my idea of fun. Shelly and I both agreed that when we're in Orlando, the moment we check into our hotel, we will run to a grocery store and buy bottled water to take with us wherever we go. My three biggest regrets for the trip: 1) I didn't exchange my money into Canadian dollars, which was a hassle because I was hesitant to use my American dollars to pay for anything and I didn't want to use my American Express card because someone had told me I would be fined for it; 2) I didn't have any water with me and was constantly thirsty; 3) I paid too much money for food. I paid $30 for breakfast at the hotel, which was good, but not that good.

Overall I missed Terry and was excited to see him again. He had missed me too. We had a lot to catch up on because I couldn't call him while I was in Canada because my phone plan doesn't cover international calls and so when we saw each other on Sunday, we were able to catch up on everything that had happened to him in Phoenix.

Yesterday was a wonderful day. Louise, Dave and Ava are in town and so I took the day off to be with them. Terry, Lorina and I drove up to Midway to see them and we went out for lunch and hung out until dinner. In the afternoon we drove around Midway and looked at beautiful homes and then found the Crater, which is famous for its scuba diving. The Crater is actually really cool. We went through the entrance, which is basically a hole in the side of the mountain and went inside the Crater, which has underground water that is naturally warm. I think Terry and I should go swimming there some time!

For dinner we drove into Provo and ate at Sam Hawk. After dinner we went to Pudding on the Rice for dessert. It was hard to say goodbye to Ava. She has gotten a little bigger and her hair has grown long. She is just a miniature Louise. I wish we could live close to each other so that I could see her more often. She is just so darling. At dinner they gave her a spoon and she was banging it on the table. In Midway Terry was holding her and hitting his chest like a drum and she was moving her head to the beat. It was so cute and funny. She is the best!

Hawaii and travel

2008-04-24T14:34:00.000-07:00

My boss Shelly came back from Hawaii today. As she was telling me about her trip, a flood of memories came rushing back. I thought of my trip last year with Lorina and how amazing it was. It was truly a blast and it even made me miss Ammon a little. (A little). The truth is, I would love to take Terry there with me, I know he would love it there. Hawaii is such an incredible place. The flowers that are everywhere, the botanicals, and amazing scenery. If only we could live there for a year or two.

I wish I could travel. I'm really hoping we can travel together before children come along, but who knows when that will happen? Life is just so uncertain and I feel as though our finances aren't in order enough for us to spend a lot on a trip. There are just so many places to go...

I am learning Chinese again. I just feel so behind and know I will regret it if I don't do more to learn now. But it's so hard to find the time.

Long time no blog!

2008-04-14T11:32:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I last blogged, but that was mostly because the website was blocked at work, as were all other social networking sites. It was kind of crazy and annoying. But a few days later, they "unblocked" it and so now that it's my lunch break, I want to catch up on what's happened recently (not that anything has).

Yesterday we had two couples over for dinner, the Alberts and the Jewels. Diana and Al Albert are friends from our singles ward in Orem and the Jewels are newlyweds that are in our ward that we have never spent much time with, mostly because they are in the Nursery and are probably so wrapped up with each other in their first year of marriage that socializing with other ward members is just not that important. I know, because I was like that too.

Anyway, it has been almost two years since we had last seen the Alberts, so it was really cool to spend time with them and catch up and exchange gossip about people we had known in the ward. It was also really fun to spend time getting to know the Jewels. They are a nice couple and interesting people.

Terry was in charge of the breadsticks and dessert. I made the pasta and salad. We were pretty pleased with our dinner, even if it wasn't ready right when we asked them to come. The breadsticks were still rising!

On Saturday Terry and I had a great day as well. It was relaxing and fun. In the morning we went to the gym and came back to do chores. Then we went to the BYU Blue and White game, which was short (about an hour) and tolerable. Then I convinced Terry to take me to a Japanese restaurant so I could eat some sushi! I think I am finally getting him to like it! Afterwards we went to see a movie at Movies 8. It's a cute film called Penelope. I love those cute chickflicks.

We went home and called up Dan, our friend, to see if he wanted to hang out. We went over to his house and watched the movie "Clue". It's kind of a weird movie, but lots of fun. It reminded me of the Mystery Dinner we had with the Young Women a few weeks ago.

Running...Urgh!!!!

2008-03-31T08:32:00.000-07:00

From my two mile run this morning, I now have blisters on each foot. What is my problem? No wonder I hate running--every time I do it, I end up with blisters. I must need new shoes or socks, or something. I had no idea I had to be so careful with running and that it could be so expensive! Terry's new shoes were practically $100! But I have to be serious about this. If I'm going to do it, I want to do it now. I've been thinking about preparing for a triathlon for a while now and I think running will be my biggest hurdle. So once I get used to running, preparing for a triathlon will be much easier. But why am I such a wimp about it? It's because running is really hard, that's why. I just don't like it that much! But I must think positively!!!!

Friday night Terry and I had dinner with some friends at Chili's in American Fork. It was Jon Gardner's birthday and they invited a few friends to join them for dinner. It was fun to hang out with couples, something we hardly ever do. I suppose that's our own fault, but there just doesn't seem to be anybody around that we can be good friends with. Everyone just seems so busy and preoccupied with their own lives. Not only that, a lot of couples just don't seem interested. Utah couples! When there is family around, you have less time for friends. Oh well. I hope Arizona will be a more social place.

The truth is, moving is now inevitable. I must switch my thinking from "if we move" to "when we move". Now that it's definitely going to happen at some point, I don't know what to think. Do I want to move? Do I want to leave Utah? I've learned to be happy here...leaving Provo/Orem and Nu Skin has helped immensely, but does it feel like home? I don't think so. At least, not yet. I am trying to be more involved and social, trying to do as much as I possibly can here so that when I do leave I have no regrets about living here. I want to embrace all that Utah has to offer.

I've decided to join a bookclub. I think connecting with women on an intellectual level will be a lot of fun and good for me. I also want to continue to bellydance and will resume classes in May. I think that's a lot for now; all of my activities will keep my evenings full, especially with Young Women's taking up Wednesday nights. I love my calling and realize how good it's been for me to be a part of Young Women's; I think I have received more than I have given. I will also be going to camp this summer for the entire week! I hope I will have enough vacation time saved up, but I figure while I don't have children, this is the perfect time for me to be as involved as possible. I know ultimately I will cherish the experience. I barely remember my own Girl's Camp experience from when I was a teenager, except that it wasn't very fun.

On Saturday I attended the Provident Living Fair and helped out at the Laurel booth. Alexai was in charge of it and created flyers about home remedies. Most of the Laurels came to help out, so I was able to spend some time talking to them, which is something we so rarely have time to do. I love my Laurels, they are just so much fun. I wish we could be closer and become better friends. I hope they consider me a friend and know that I want to help them in any way possible.

That evening Rachelle Mousley and I went out to dinner and attended the General Relief Society Broadcast together. It was a wonderful experience, and so funny too, to see so many girls running around downtown Salt Lake and storming the Conference Center. The choir was magnificent. I wish I could one day have the opportunity to sing in the choir for a broadcast one day.

Speaking of choirs, I managed to convince Terry to join the ward choir with me. It's been a lot of fun so far, except a little but intimidating because it's been a long time since I was part of a choir and I'm not as musical as a lot of the women there, who are able to read music and can sing the notes right away.

Hip Hop class

2008-03-28T09:29:00.000-07:00

I have decided to take a hip hop class. I have never taken one before, so it'll definitely be a challenge. I have attended the class twice already and each time I feel like a fool. But I am doing it because I feel like it'll be fun. I would love to improve as a dancer and I think this class will stretch me immensely. The music is a lot of fun, the teacher is good, and I think it'll also be a great chance to get to know women. There are at least two women in the class who don't have children, so it'll be good bonding time for me and a great chance to make more friends. There is also a recital the class is preparing for in June. That was another reason I decided to do this. I had such a great experience in my recital last time that I hope I can continue to perform and one day learn to be comfortable as a performer.

Unfortunately the adult ballet class I want to take is on Wednesday nights. Bummer. I have made a deal with Heavenly Father. I told him that I would continue going to Mutual on Wednesdays because of my calling in church but that once we move or I get released, I get to have the opportunity of taking ballet again. So at some point in my life I will become a better ballerina! The funny thing is, last night our hip hop teacher, Leigh, asked we would like the studio to hold a ballet class on Thursday nights, right before the hip hop class. We were like, Yes!!! That would be so awesome because I would be able to take ballet. I hope it works out.

Natalie, my visiting teaching companion, is part of the neighborhood book club. I've been thinking that I would like to be part of a book club, so I'm going to try to find out more about it. Now that I have a new job, I feel as though new life is now coursing through my veins. I had no idea my job at Nu Skin brought me down so much, and now I want to do so much with my life!

I am going to try to be serious about running. I know it'll help me become more slender; I just can't help but feel down everything I look in the mirrors at the dance studio--I just don't look as good as I'd like to. So today Terry and I ran two miles together and it felt good. I took my time, which is key for me when it comes to endurance, and finished the two miles with no problem. My biggest problem right now is just getting up and doing it. I keep thinking I would like to be a runner, but it's much harder to do it.

The Kite Runner

2008-03-27T08:43:00.001-07:00

Last Friday night Terry and I went to see The Kite Runner at the dollar theater in Sandy. It affected me to my very core. I was deeply impacted by it and felt as though it changed my life forever. It is a story about two young boys growing up in Afghanistan in the 70s. One boy is wealthier than the other and the other boy and his father are actually servants for the wealthier boy's family. It is a beautiful and touching story about friendship and redemption. The portrayal of their childhood in Afghanistan was simple and innocent and reminded me of Taiwan.

I was mostly affected by the sweetness and kindness of the servant boy to his best friend. He was willing to do anything for him and that kind of loyalty and devotion in a friend is rare indeed. There was a horrible incident that occured that broke my heart. I can't believe the cruelty of the world and the hurt that young boy must have endured. It makes me want to shield all children from pain and protect their innocence.

I want to read the book, but more desperately, I want to help. The movie portrayed Afghanistan as a place from hell, devoid of humanity and especially cruel to women and children. I feel as though life is not fair and want to somehow make it a better place by eliminating all cruelty and pain. It's not fair that some human beings are subjected to such torturous living, while others live "normal" lives. I was especially affected by the children in the orphanage and their horrible lives, devoid of love, shelter, health, and education. After watching the movie, I felt like taking a plane to Afghanistan and bringing all the orphans back with me, I don't care how much it costs.

I want to make a difference and it reminded me of the Starfish Orphanage in China. That is a good cause for me to focus on and I hope I will be able to get the Young Women involved in a fundraising effort for them as well.

On a lighter note, I attended the high school's choir performance with the Young Women for our Mutual activity last night. We were there to support two of our Laurels that were in the choir. There was a number by John Ritter that included a cellist and violinist. It was absolutely beautiful! I love gorgeous music and especially loved the inclusion of the cellist and violinist. If only I were able to play those instruments!