Ryan and Brooke

Tenney-Boo

2011-07-20T13:58:00.001-07:00

Look at this face.

Have you ever seen a happier face? This girl is a firecracker, and we love it! She's 15 months now, and we are really loving this stage. Tenney has been walking- correction - running, for a few months now. It's pretty much her favorite thing to do. She's still tiny, and has been passed up by her friends who are a few months younger than her. Nevertheless, nothing slows her down. I swear she's spring-loaded. Sometimes, before we go to bed, we check on her. If she hears the slightest noise, BING! she's awake and sitting straight up whispering "whassat?" Haha, it's so funny!

She loves her stuffed animal bunny, babs. They're the best of friends, always hugging and wrestling.

She is turning into a mama's girl, I think, but nothing beats that smile when daddy comes home.

We feel so blessed to have this sweet girl in our lives.

This Summer...

2011-06-26T20:51:00.000-07:00

We've had a busy summer so far. We visited the homeland (Utah) for Sarah's and the twins' graduations. It was so nice to be in the beautiful Utah Spring weather. We had some family photos taken by A. Chamberlain, who completely rocked! I lo-o-o-ve these photos. She did such a great job! These are the only photos I have right now.

Bronson came home to AZ with us and stayed for three weeks. It was fun to have him here. He was a big help with Tenney, and he also helped me with ESSO orders.

We took a quick weekend trip to California, where we celebrated the 50th Wedding Anniversary of my grandparents, Jim and Joan. It was such a fun event. All of the family was gathered (except Matt on a mission), and that was an amazing thing. I loved seeing everyone!

What Up?

2011-04-15T09:45:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile.

2011 has been treating us well.

Ryan and I went on a cruise with our friends Mike and Kristin in March. Tenney stayed with the Naylors and the Tenneys. Thank you for your help, families! We went to St. Thomas, Dominica, Grenada, Bonaire, and Aruba. It was a much needed break from life and we had SO MUCH FUN!

Tenney turned 1 last week (we can't believe it!) We had some friends and family over and ate cupcakes. It was so fun! Tenney is still a tiny little thing. She's in the 3rd percentile for weight and height, but 10th percentile for head circumference. Ha! She weighs 17 pounds. We love that she's tiny. Maybe she'll stay this way forever!

Merry Christmas to You!!!

2010-12-22T18:48:00.001-08:00

We hope you have a good holiday!

I Do This Every Time

2010-10-01T09:10:00.000-07:00

I've started working out again, now that the weather is below 100 (mostly), and I have a couple comrades, and I have no more excuses. I started this week, and have been consistent every day. The problem is, I always push myself too much, too early. I am SO sore right now. I can hardly walk up and down the stairs. The squats are what did me in. I know being sore is a good thing, because you know your body is getting a workout, but being too sore too early is bad! I always do this every time I start working out after a period of not working out. I just won't learn my lesson! Hopefully this weekend I can heal up to be alright next week.

I Love Being a Mommy

2010-09-27T16:56:00.001-07:00

I love my little T.

I Miss My Mattie

2010-09-21T10:14:00.000-07:00

My little brother, Matt, has been out just over a year now on his mission! He's in Honduras (currently on the beautiful tropical island of Roatan-poor guy) and working hard. One year from now, he'll meet Tenney and we'll all have a wonderful reunion. Missions are great, but hard! I love you, Mattie!

p.s. look at his chubby cheeks! How funny is that? He never had an ounce of chub on him before he left!

Amateur

2010-09-14T16:06:00.001-07:00

So, I painted a canvas. I originally wanted it to be an abstract. I started with the yellow, added the orange, and was puzzled how I should continue. I felt like it needed something else. So, before I knew it, I had brown mountain-looking things! I had created a landscape! I don't hate it now, but I'm not sure if I love it. I still feel like it might need something else, but I'm afraid to do anything else, because I don't want to mess it up! I'm kind of a stress-pot.

Any art experts out there? Any suggestions? I could sure use some.

Overdue Update!

2010-09-11T19:22:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness, it's been a long while. It has been a busy summer, and things around here have kept us busy!

Tenney Lou is now 5 months. She's getting a little bigger (still wearing 0-3 month clothes), but she's changing and doing all kinds of funny things. Her great big smile is so cute, and sometimes I can get her to laugh. She loves the bath, and kicks her legs the whole time she's in the tub. A little after 4 months, she finally started sleeping through the night consistently. I think she would've earlier, but we were traveling so much this summer that it was throwing her off. All I can say is: It is sooo nice to have my sleep back! TL is now having rice cereal every day, which she loves! I gave her avocado, and she seemed to like that also. This week we switched from a 3-hour to a 4-hour feeding schedule, which is also nice. It frees up my day so much more! Being a parent brings mixed emotions of fatigue, concern, pride, and joy, but we are loving it. We love our little munchkin so much!!!

Ryan has been keeping SO busy with his business. Local Work Marketing is growing really fast and Ryan is doing a great job with it.

This summer, we went to Utah 3 times, and California once. It was such a treat to spend time with family, and get out of the Phoenix heat. This summer has flown by with all of the trips and what not.

Here are tons of pictures from the past few months.

Daddy's girl

Yummm!

Mommy and little T

Watching the US Open

Getting acquainted with her new friends

Goofy grin

Slobber queen

So pretty in her Sunday dress. Thanks, Betty!

Concerned about the camera.

At Zuma beach. T didn't like the wind!

With "cousin" Christiana

Need a Rental?

2010-08-31T13:27:00.000-07:00

We are renting our townhouse in Logan, Ut. If you are interested or know anyone who is, leave me a comment! We bought it new and have rented it to an older couple for the past year or so. It's super cute and a pretty good size for a townhouse.

P.S. I know I'm in major trouble for the lack of posting lately. What can I say, things have been busy this summer. I'll be posting soon...I hope.

Tenney's Blessing

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

We took a trip to Utah a few weeks ago and had a blast! We spent lots of time with family and frends and celebrated the 4th of July by blessing our sweet little Tenney Lou. Ryan gave a beautiful blessing in Centerville, and Kyle and Tammy were so sweet to host a shindig in their back yard. It was such a beautiful day, with great weather. Tenney wore the same blessing dress that I wore on my blessing day. Thanks, mom, for keeping it! It was so great to see family and friends. Thanks to all who were able to make it.

The Patriarchs The Matriarchs
The Aunt and Uncles (minus Mattie in Honduras) The Star of the show!

Sleep

2010-06-20T18:19:00.000-07:00

Will it ever come?

Hello Utah!

2010-06-05T07:50:00.000-07:00

I'm here in Utah visiting family and friends! Tenney and I are having a good ole' time relaxin'. If you want to see me, (I obviously want to see you), then call me and let's get together! I'll be here until Wednesday. We'll also be back up at the end of the month for the 4th of July to bless the peanut.

Newborn Photos

2010-05-19T19:10:00.000-07:00

Tenney had these taken a few weeks ago. I just love 'em.
Annie Miller, in our ward, took them and did a FABULOUS job!

Tenney's Nursery

2010-05-04T19:32:00.001-07:00

I am finally posting pictures of the nursery! I got a little preoccupied with this little one coming early. The nursery is mostly done. I still want to get curtains, a vinyl art piece above the crib, and some sort of storage device under the 3 damask art pieces. Maybe someday...

Tenney is doing great. She's changing already, and getting bigger. She is looking more like daddy everyday!

We call her Houdini, because she can get out of any swaddle! We swaddle her so tightly, and she manages to get out. Here is one example.

Love this little Rascal.

Grandma and Grandpa Tenney

2010-04-23T20:03:00.000-07:00

I am such a lucky girl. I had my mom here for 10 days to help me out while I recovered and took care of baby Tenney. She was such an awesome helper. She pretty much ran my house and took great care of all of us. Many Thanks to my mommy! My dad was able to jaunt down to Phoenix for a few days as well. It was so great to have them here! We always love visitors! We can't wait for the Naylors to come visit at the end of May!

Mom holding Tenney. They had lots of fun together.

Dad meeting Tenney for the first time. He melted!

Grandma and Grandpa

Tenney is getting bigger! At her 2 week doctor's appointment, she weighed 5 lbs. 15 oz. She's past her birth weight, yahoo! I think she's starting to look like Ryan. What do you think?

Tenney is 1 Week Old!

2010-04-15T17:20:00.000-07:00

Our little peanut is 1 week old! She is still adorable, sleepy, and a joy in our lives!

After her first bath

She is HERE!

2010-04-10T11:38:00.000-07:00

At 3:20 a.m.,

On the day of my baby shower,

Exactly one month from my due date,

My water broke!

Ryan called the hospital, and they told us to come in. Ryan thought that they would just put me on bed rest because I had one month left. When we got in there, they checked to make sure it was really my water that broke, and when they confirmed that, they said "You're having your baby today." WHAT? HOLY COW!

The hospital staff was so awesome. They got me into a delivery room and checked me. I was at a 3 or 4 by 5:00 a.m. The contractions weren't too bad. They felt like menstrual cramps. At 6:30, I got the epidural. It was really fast and easy. They started me on pitocin after the epidural kicked in. By 8:00 I was dilated to a 6. By 11:00 I was dilated to a 9. At 12:00, the doctor came in. He was so easy going and confident. We love our doctor. I pushed about 4 or 5 times, and she was out! It was amazing. The whole labor process went by so quickly and easily, that I feel like I cheated! I didn't expect it to be how it was.

Tenney Lou Naylor was born at 12:12 p.m. on April 7, 2010. She was 5 lbs. 11 oz. She was and is so tiny! She got a score of 9 on her APGAR tests, which we're so relieved about. She's been very healthy, and SLEEPY! We're lucky if she opens her eyes for us. She's been a great nurser, although it can be a challenge to keep her awake enough to eat. We're so in love with her and can't believe that she's already here!

Tammy, Sarah, and Bronson were in town visiting us during their Spring Break when this all happened. Aunt Michele and Kiley were also here on their Spring Break. It was so lucky that she came when we had all of this family in town! Their support has been amazing. My mom is here for a little over a week, and she's been such a great help so far. I'm so glad she's here!

Ryan has been an amazing daddy. He has definitely risen to the occasion, and is such a great help to me. We're so excited to embark on this journey together and welcome our beautiful girl into the world. Heavenly Father has given us this opportunity and responsibility and we are thrilled.

Bye Bye Car!

2010-03-28T16:04:00.000-07:00

This last week, we got rid of our beloved car. It was getting time to do some major repairs (which are quite costly on German cars), and we said, phooey! I was sad to say goodbye to our lovely vehicle, but our new car is a good one, and we feel lucky to have it!

Me at 34 Weeks. Apparently I wear this green skirt a lot!

Mmm Hmm

2010-03-23T15:20:00.000-07:00

So, I've been absent from posting for a while. Things are going great with us. I'm 33 weeks! It's crazy! I can't believe in 7ish weeks, she'll be here. I'm full of excitement and anxiety. So many emotions at one time...

Last week, I worked on the nursery. Here's a sneak peek at what's in there. It's almost done! I will post pictures when it is!

I'm posting one picture of our 3D ultrasound we had. Sorry if it weirds you out! She is apparently measuring really big and she looks chubby in the pictures. It'll be interesting to see if she comes early, on time, or late!

For Jess...

2010-03-01T09:17:00.000-08:00

Our birth is but a sleep and a forgetting:
The Soul that rises with us, our life's Star,
Hath had elsewhere its setting,
And cometh from afar:
Not in entire forgetfulness,
And not in utter nakedness,
But trailing clouds of glory do we come
From God, who is our home:
Heaven lies about us in our infancy!

-William Wordsworth

I love you, Jess. May the Lord be with you at this difficult time.

A Fun Trip!

2010-02-28T09:38:00.000-08:00

Currently, we are in Utah visiting our family and friends. It's so great to see everybody after a few months of living away in Phoenix. I had two wonderful baby showers, one in Centerville with the Naylor and Tolman family, and one in Lehi with some friends and Tenney family. It was so much fun to see everybody and catch up with what's going on in everyone's lives. Our little girl got so many cute little outfits, THANK YOU SO MUCH EVERYONE! I didn't take any pictures at my shower in Centerville, and I'm so mad about it. Duh! Here are some pics from the Lehi shower.

Me, Shawnee, and Cohen

We had a race to drink some juice from bottles. It's harder than you think!

Me and Betty. It had been forever since we had seen each other!

The Burgi Ladies! I'm so glad I could see them!

Mom, me, grandma, and Sarah. Thanks for coming from far and wide!

Annie and Cammie, who planned the whole shower with my mom. Thanks, guys! You're the best!

Me and Heidi. Love ya!

I am now at 30 weeks. 10 to go! AHH! I'm kind of freaking out, but I'm also really excited! Thanks again to everyone's support. I love you all!

A Fun Weekend for the Girls!

2010-02-06T17:47:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, I met up with my mom, Grandma Joan, Amy, and Jenn in Las Vegas. We used the excuse of my mom's birthday to get together. We browsed the shops, went to Serendipity 3 (yum!), and saw the Donnie and Marie show. I was a little unsure about seeing Donnie and Marie, but it turned out to be really good! They're awesome entertainers. It was so great to see these lovely ladies and spend time with them, especially my mommie! I miss my family since moving to Phoenix, but I'm also really loving it here. Thanks for the fun time ladies!

The Latest

2010-01-18T08:23:00.000-08:00

I know it's time to update, but things have pretty much been the same since the holidays! My belly is getting bigger, as expected. I've had some requests for pics, so here ya go! We painted the nursery a really light pink. Ryan is putting bead board on the bottom half of the wall. It's still a work in progress, but I think it will be super cute when it's finished.

Me at 24 Weeks

The nursery

Baby Bump: 21 Weeks

2009-12-30T15:21:00.000-08:00

My belly is getting bigger, and I'm loving it! It's so fun to look pregnant-at least for now it is.

As far as my kidney stones are concerned, I think they're gone! Yahoo! It feels so nice to not be in pain. It's something I definitely take for granted. Now let's just hope they don't come back!

We had a great Christmas here in Phoenix. It was quieter than what we've had in the past, but we enjoyed being able to spend some time together. We also spent some time with the Fields, which is always a blast.

This is Me, Ryan, Hudson, and Kathryn.

Ryan with Hudson who is ready to throw the ball at the camera. That 2-year old has one heck of an arm!

Pregnancy: The Good and the Bad

2009-12-22T18:36:00.000-08:00

So, most people know that with pregnancy comes great things and not-so-great things. For the most part, things are going awesome! We are very lucky to have what seems to be a healthy baby girl growing inside of me. I feel so blessed.

Last week, we went in for our 20 week ultrasound to check out all of the body parts and make sure everything is looking normal. Going in for those appointments has to be my favorite thing. It's so fun to see her moving around! She was kicking like crazy! Things are looking great as far as the anatomy of the baby, so we are happy about that.

On the other side of than coin, I've been feeling the effects of kidney stones for the past three weeks. It's been pretty brutal. I have this stabbing pain in my back. I've pretty much become a Tylenol addict. I can't go anywhere without it! There's nothing I can really do about it. I just have to wait for the stones to pass, and then the pain should subside.

Ry is going to take off a few days during this holiday season to start working on the nursery with me! I'm so excited to get it going! I'll put up pictures through the process.
I hope you're all enjoying this Christmas season! Happy Holidays!

I Recommend...

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

reading these two books. They're the first two in a series. The third hasn't come out yet. They're the type of books that you just can't put down!

Number 1:
Number 2:

TONIGHT!

2009-12-09T09:10:00.000-08:00

Season Finale. So excited!

Update

2009-12-03T19:04:00.000-08:00

A quick update on our lives:

-We have moved to Phoenix and we are loving it! 67 degrees feels real nice.

-We bought a home here and it's been fun to get settled.

-Ryan is starting his web business, localwork.com and is very busy with that.

-I am at 18 weeks and feeling a little larger as the days go by.

-I am working on getting an after school tutoring thing going.

-We had a great Thanksgiving! My fam came down and we had a big family shindig at Market Bistro (Jim & Paige's restaurant).

Ryan on the ride down to Phoenix

Us in front of our garage.

The developers put a bow on our door. Cheesy, but nice :)

Our home

Visit Ryan's site if you want!

And this is me at 18 weeks.

A Big Announcement!

2009-11-19T12:58:00.000-08:00

SURPRISE!

We are having a little baby

GIRL!!!

I am due the first week of May.

We are SO EXCITED! (and a little nervous).

Florence and Rome

2009-11-11T15:33:00.001-08:00

Here are the final pictures from our trip. Florence and Rome were absolutely beautiful! These were our last two stops before coming home, and we were a little tired from all of the traveling. So we really enjoyed just walking the streets and watching the people of Florence and Rome.

MMMMMM Gelato!!!

Ryan posing next to a replica of the David.

The old bridge in Florence

The beautiful landscape of Tuscany

Us in Piazza Michaelangelo overlooking the city

The Colosseum was amazing

The Ruins of the Forum

Me on the Spanish Steps

In front of the Pantehon-Built in 27 B.C.!

The day we were in the Vatican City, the Pope came out and talked to the crowd.

There he is!

The ceiling of the Sistine Chapel

Inside St. Peter's Basillica

Castle Saint Angelo

We had such a great time on our trip! It was awesome to be able to go to so many different cities, but by the time we went home, we were ready.

Our next adventure: We are moving to Phoenix in 3 days! We are so excited!

Germany, Switzerland, Italy

2009-10-23T07:31:00.000-07:00

We've been running around like crazy chickens! It's been so fun to go to so many different places!
Here's where we've been since I last posted:
Munich, Germany-Here we went to Dachau concentration camp
Murren, Switzerland-Hiked in the alps, chased cows with bells, and snuggled up in a cozy chalet
Milan, Italy-Met up with David and Bianca, saw the sites in the city
Lake Como, Italy-Took a boat ride and enjoyed the scenery
Venice, Italy-Walked the tiny streets of Venice and went to St. Mark's Square
Cinque Terre, Italy-Hiked from town to town and enjoyed the history and scenery of the Mediterranean coast
We are now in Florence for a few days and will finish up in Rome. Only 1 week left!

Dachau concentration camp

On one of our many train rides. By the way- Ryan Electrocuted my flat iron to death in Paris. It's been some scary hair days. OH WELL!

Hiking in the Swiss Alps

Murren- the village we stayed in

The Duomo in Milan. Beautiful!

Meeting up with D&B for lunch! Thanks you two!

Venice gondolas

Venice again

Romantic times in Lake Como

A view from our boat ride on Lake Como

On one of our walks in Cinque Terre

Monterosso, one of the towns in Cinque Terre

We have so many pictures, I wish I could post them all!

London and Paris

2009-10-13T08:02:00.000-07:00

We are in Paris, about to leave for Munich. London was great. We were only there for 2 days. Everyone seemed so cheery with their accents. I loved it.

Paris is SO BEAUTIFUL! I can't get over it. The architecture alone is so romantic. We have been here for 5 days, so we've seen a lot.

Here are some pics...

Our Underground station in London.Tower of London

Tower Bridge

Big Ben

Our last night in London, we saw Les Miserables. Our first time seeing it- it was fab.

Notre Dame Cathedral.
Along the Seine River.

Eiffel Tower at Night. Gorgeous.

Gardens at Versailles

Versailles--AMAZING!

More to come...

Au Revoir, Auf Wiedersehen, Ciao!

2009-10-04T19:32:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow we are off to Europe. We hope to see some of these things...

I'm hoping I will be able to put some pictures up during the trip. See ya later!

For Your Enjoyment...

2009-09-16T07:33:00.000-07:00

Right now we are making our way back to the west from Washington D.C. Boy, it's a long drive!
Anyway, a friend of Ryan's forwarded this to him, and I can't stop laughing about it. Click on this link and listen!!! Here's the story:

The story is this: a girl was out with friends having drinks on King St (in Toronto ). This guy approaches her and won't leave her alone -saying how cute she is. She finally gives in and hands the guy her business card to get rid of him. The attached is an MP3 file of not one, but TWO voicemails this guy left. This goes down in the history books - especially the second voice mail. After hearing them you can clearly see why she didn't call him back - instead she called in to the Z103.5 morning show & had them play this on the air. Ladies: He is out there... :)

http://melodymaker.posterous.com/the-reason-some-girls-stay-single-very-funny

US Open

2009-09-10T10:49:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I love tennis! This week we were able to go to the US Open in New York. It was such an awesome experience. We went to a day session and saw three matches: Bryan/Bryan vs. Ball/Guccione, Kim Clijsters vs. Na Li, and Andy Murray vs. Marin Cilic. It was amazing to see these professionals play. They are so great! The fans at the Open are interesting. You see some very wealthy people there, and people like us-just average joes. That's one reason why I love tennis so much: it attracts such a diverse group of people. You can be young or old, wealthy or not. Anyway, we had a great time and feel lucky that we were able to go!

Kim Clijsters serving.

Andy Murray hitting a backhand.

Arthur Ashe Stadium behind us.

On our way home, we stopped in Philadelphia. We saw the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall and the U.S. Mint. Philly is such a great city!

Me in front of Independence Hall.

Ryan inside the room where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and signed.

I don't know what's up with my pose here...A "V" for victory? I'm a nerd. Can you tell I didn't do my hair that day? HA!

Well Good Morning to YOU!

2009-09-05T07:17:00.001-07:00

So the area of Maryland we're living in isn't the most...well...crime free...area. When Ryan went to the parking garage this morning, he saw someone's car had been handled. Completely handled. Can you believe this? Imagine walking to your car to go to work, and finding this! I just can't believe the nerve of someone to do this in the middle of the night under the lights.

A Nasty Surprise

2009-09-02T07:25:00.000-07:00

Have you ever bit into a JALEPENO thinking it was a green bell pepper? Well, let me tell you, try not to let it happen to you. I was at Five Guys the other day (yum) and I ordered green peppers on my burger. I patiently wait for my meal, and finally it's ready. I take it to my seat and open up my burger. I see a small round green piece of vegetable with some seeds in it. Ryan says, "What's that?" I say, "It's a green pepper. " He says, "That doesn't look like a green pepper." I say, "Yeah, it is, I ordered them on my burger." He says, "O.K. then." I bite into my burger, and I can feel the hot juices squeeze into every tastebud. I try to play it cool, like, hey, it's not so bad, but my eyes begin to water, and I start to cough. Ryan says, "That wasn't a green pepper, was it?" I shake my head "no." For the next ten minutes I had to gargle water, to cool off my mouth. The rest of the burger had green peppers. One devil jalapeno must have snuck in. In retrospect, I should've gone up to the counter and told them, but I didn't. Oh well. I learned I guess I'm a major wuss when it comes to spicy stuff.

Go Redskins!

2009-08-29T08:37:00.000-07:00

We live down the road from the Washington Redskins stadium, and last night we were able to go to a preseason game. The Redskins played the Patriots. It was a really good game and we had a lot of fun!

Outside the stadium

Inside the stadium

A little too excited

Sorry this pic is a little dark

Hope you're all doing well. LOVE YOU!

Back to School--NOT!

2009-08-15T06:47:00.000-07:00

The other night, Ryan and I saw a commercial for back to school clothes. We realized that it's the first time in our lives (except for Ryan's mission) that we aren't going back to school. It's creepy...but wonderful! I'm happy to be done.

As far as teaching, I did not renew my contract to teach this year. After a lot of thought and debating, Ryan and I decided that we're going to stay out here in DC through September, and go on a trip to Europe through October. I'm so excited about it!

So we've got about six or seven weeks until we leave DC. I think once school starts, a lot of the tourists and crowds will leave. I'll be going into downtown more, I think.

Summertime. Gotta Love It!

2009-07-30T12:26:00.000-07:00

WOWIE, I can't believe it's the end of July. This summer has seriously gone by so fast! I've been meaning to post these events as they happened, but I never made it happen. So, here ya go.

First, My mom came out to D.C. and we did a bunch of stuff. This is us at Mount Vernon, George Washington's Estate. I love going there every time. It goregous!

The D.C. Temple

We took a trip to nearby Annapolis. I love that town. It's so quaint. We took a harbor boat ride and saw all of the summer homes. To die for!

Then, we took a charter bus up to NYC. This is mom getting all comfy with her Reader's Digest. By the way, the bus is the way to go! Only $25!

Us in Times Square. Sensory Overload!
We saw 1.5 shows. We left Altar Boyz in the middle, and saw all of The Marvelous Wonderettes. I loved that one!

The famous Bridge in Central Park. It's beautiful!

Bethesda Fountain in Central Park.

I LOVED having my mom come out to see us. It was such a great time!

Second, we celebrated the 4th at the National Mall. We sat right by the Washington Monument. I love this first picture. Dupree (Easton) wanted to pose with us. We love our Dupree :)

The Lincoln Monument at a distance

Presh.

Amazing Fireworks.

Third, I met two great friends from high school (Go Bruins!), Annie and Cammie in NYC. I had the best time ever. I seriously fell in love with New York. I've been a few times before, but this trip I was able to take my time and enjoy everything. Other times, it's been so crazy and hectic. We did so many awesome things in New York. I loved spending time with these girls.

This is at Mama Mia!

We biked all of Central Park and it was an awesome way to go!

Cammie with Alice in Central Park

Me eating my first Black and White cookie.

Us at the Castle in Cental Park.

While in Central Park, some lady told us that Robert Pattinson (Edward in Twilight) was filming on the Upper East Side. "What a short bike ride," we thought. This is the best shot we could get. They had the sidewalk closed off.

We found some HOT firefighters to take a picture with. Ha Ha, it was the joke of the week!

We got great Letterman seats. We were also on t.v. for like 2 seconds!

Us three on the Brooklyn Bridge. That's Manhattan behind us.

Grimaldi's Pizza under the Bridge. Best Pizza. Period.

These goofs put on a really bad show for us on the promenade at Brooklyn Heights.

Manhattan Skyline at night from the Promenade.

We went over to Riverside Park which is on the Upper West Side. I think this is where the last scene of You've Got Mail was filmed. Dreamy.

We're a bunch of Posers.

Washington Square in the NYU area. Loved this.

The New Yankee Stadium! I totally caught the fever!

Famous Yankees of the past. The Babe is the first one on the left.

We had nosebleed seats, but it was still awesome!

Brooklyn Bridge again.

Our Last Day we went to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. I loved it.

Last, Ryan, Matt, and I went back to Utah for a 6 days. Ryan and I moved our stuff out of our basement apt (which I will post no pictures of). We spent some time with the Naylors (sorry I don't have any pictures! I'm so horrible!) Matt received his endowments at the Mount Timpanogos Temple. I'm so proud of him. He's such a good guy. He'll be a great missionary. This is Matt with my parents.

Us with Mattie.

We then went to Lake Tahoe for the Tenney Family Reunion. Ever since I can remember, we've been going to Tahoe in the summers to see the whole family. One of the mornings, Ryan and I woke up early and he went fly fishing. This is one happy boy! Tying the Flies.

Nice Form!

Grandma and Grandpa Tenney- the creators of an awesome family!

Cute Cousin Brynn. She wanted to pose with the goggles.

Me and Ry at Donner Lake.

Cousin Hudson. I just want to munch on him.

Kings Beach on the North Shore.

The Trent Tenney Family. I can't believe how grown up we all are!

Us at BBQ night.

My Brothers. Foxes.

Mom and Dad.

The Tenney Cousins minus a few. Love you all!

Needless to say, we've had a great summer so far. We are so blessed to have family, friends, and health.

Need a good laugh?

2009-07-14T10:38:00.000-07:00

Some of you may have already perused this website, but if not, CHECK IT OUT! It's quite hilarious. Be sure to click on 'Older Entries' at the bottom of the page.

By the way...

2009-07-13T17:31:00.000-07:00

My brother, Matt, got his mission call! He-llo, it's been like a month since he got it. Now you all know :)

HONDURAS!

Such a FOX!

My mom made Matt get some senior pics done by Kate Benson (fab photographer) against his will. They turned out very handsome.

Life in D.C.

2009-07-02T17:35:00.001-07:00

Well, here I am again. Another summer in a strange place. Ryan is working hard selling every day, and it's up to me to keep myself busy. D.C. is great! We live right next door to a metro stop, so lots of sites are accessible.
Mom came and visited last week and we ran around the east coast like crazy people. We went to NYC and all over D.C. I'll post pictures later.
I wish I had more to say in this post...I'm racking my brain. Hmm... Still nothing! If you're reading this, I apologize for the boring nature of this blog. Blah.

Until next time...

Last Day of School

2009-06-05T13:54:00.000-07:00

Tear...sniff, sniff!

Today was the last day of school. I have mixed emotions. I'm stoked to move to D.C. with Ryan, but I'm also sad I won't see my kids. It's the turning of a page for me. I've had an amazing experience these past months, and I'm glad I did it. I won't be returning to teaching in August. I will stay out in D.C. with Ry through September, and we're planning on doing some traveling after that. I'm thinking of maybe picking up another half year position. I dunno.

Here are some pics of my cute kiddies!

Busy Busy Springtime!

2009-06-03T15:51:00.000-07:00

Things have been real busy. I was able to go to D.C. for Memorial Day weekend and see my hubbs. Love you babe! We will be reunited next Tuesday- WAHOO!

We were able to catch a Nationals game. They are horrible, but any baseball game is fun for me :)

I love the guys that manicure the field!

Some of the wives at the parade downtown. I'm super excited to hang out with everyone this summer!

I had a serious stirring of the heart at this parade. Thank You to our servicemen and servicewomen!

A slight change in plans...

2009-05-22T18:45:00.000-07:00

So- as often happens in security sales, Ryan's office has moved! They were on Long Island, but have now moved to D.C. Sales were not going as well as hoped in NY- they ran into some nasty mean peeps, so hopefully D.C. will be a better success. Life is full of surprises!

I get to see my hubby tomorrow! I'm visiting for Memorial Day Weekend. It's been almost six weeks since we've been together. Man, I miss him!

Pics to come...

Can I Just Say...

2009-05-13T15:43:00.000-07:00

That insurance mumbo jumbo is so confusing and annoying! Maybe I'm just a total idiot when it comes to this stuff, but lately I've been so confused when it comes to my medical health insurance. I get like 3 statements a week that say "Explanation of Benefits", and sometimes there is an amount that I owe, and sometimes there isn't. I called around today to figure out what I actually do owe, and half of the time, the people on the other end don't even know! What's up with that? I'm hoping this gets easier as I stay with a company longer, but I'm not sure.
Do any of you have problems like me, or am I the only confused one?

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T17:57:00.001-07:00

Anyone who knows my mom knows how wonderful she is! She's got so many awesome qualities that I hope to live up to someday. I love you, Momma!

Oh, CRAP!

2009-05-06T19:13:00.000-07:00

So I got in my first car accident today. It wasn't too bad- just a light fender bender. But STILL, I'm mad about it. Here's what happened:
My car was acting all funny and shaking a bit, so I pulled off the road into a really hokey car shop. The guy tells me they were closing for the night. THANKS A LOT, BUDDY! So I got back in the car. As I was driving in rush hour traffic, I look down, and a bee is on my shirt. A bee! So, trying to keep my cool, I reach for a napkin so I can pick it up and throw it out the window. As I reach for a napkin, I took my foot off the break (idiot) and hit the car in front of me. SMOOTH MOVE, EXLAX. The chick whose car I hit proceeded to call her mom and the cops, who took a half an hour to get there. She insisted on not moving the vehicles. So here I am on 700 East and 9000 South in Sandy at 5:30 waiting for a cop to come and have us fill out a paper. Finally, the cop arrived and I filled out the paper. I was gone 5 minutes later. Luckily, the damage is not bad at all. Her bumper just needs to be buffed out, and my car is ok.
SIGH. Crappy evening.

Family Time

2009-05-05T15:20:00.000-07:00

Especially with Ryan being gone, I have really come to appreciate my family. This past Sunday, we got together at Grandma and Grandpa Tenney's home in Woodland Hills. Grandma and Grandpa Barlow who are leaving on a mission were there also, along with Jason and Diana and their darling boys. It was a great time to eat, laugh, and schmooze. Love you all!

Butterflies!

2009-05-01T14:39:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, our school got the shipment that we ordered of capatillars, or caterpillars, whichever you prefer. My kids like the former. They started out at about half an inch, grew to be big and juicy, and all of a sudden they were in their chrysalises. On Tuesday, within about 3 hours, they all came out and were butterflies! My kids have been loving it! About 300 times a day I have to remind them to sit in their desks and work and STOP LOOKING AT THE BUTTERFLIES!
Today we released all but one. My kids came up with the funniest names for them: Phil, Yin Yang, Survivor, Cheesecake, Pineapple, and I can't remember the last one. Cheesecake is still in the butterfly house. He didn't want to fly away today. Maybe on Monday he will.

Just Precious

This one is Cheesecake

Goodbye My Loooove!

2009-04-24T10:57:00.000-07:00

(like on Dumb and Dumber)
ANYWHO-- Ryan is gone to New York for the summer. I'm joining him in 6 weeks. We're going to be living on Long Island through September for Ryan's job at Pinnacle Security. I'm already missing him, but I'm hoping 6 weeks will go by fast.
Not a whole lot is new with me. I'm just teaching and enjoying this beautiful spring weather.
Today one of my students said to me "Mrs. Naylor, you look like a teenager today." Another chimed in, "Yeah, you look younger and happier." I laughed out loud. I think they said that because I'm wearing jeans today (yay for Friday), and because yesterday I was not a very happy teacher. I made them silently read instead of doing P.E. They looked at me like I was the devil. My kids are getting too talkative! I guess the honeymoon is over :)

I want a doggie...

2009-03-31T17:29:00.000-07:00

I'm about 60% serious. What do you know about Maltese doggies? Do you have one? Do you know someone who has one?

Oh, Come On People!

2009-03-30T14:08:00.000-07:00

Funny/disgusting story:
I was at Rumbi Island Grill today (yum), and Ryan said, "Um, don't look now, but check out the girl at your 5 o'clock." So I inconspicuously looked and saw this. I started laughing and made Ryan take a picture with his phone.
I mean, COME ON PEOPLE! Don't you have some kind of awareness that a) your shirt is coming up on your back, and b) your thong is 4 inches above where it's supposed to be?
I'm not saying I've never had to "adjust", but I can say it's never been that bad.
Anyway, I think it's funny and a little disgusting.

A Letter to Mother Nature

2009-03-18T20:38:00.000-07:00

Dear Mother Nature,
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE send the Spring season my way, and send it to stay. I'm dying here with the snow, the frost, and the scraping of windshields in the morning.
This morning when I walked outside, I actually felt dew brush off the grass onto my ankles, and it was wonderful! Please make this continue until October. I would surely appreciate it!
Sincerely Yours,
Brooklyn

California Quick Trip

2009-02-24T17:56:00.000-08:00

For President's Day weekend, we were able to take a quick trip to Los Angeles. It was really nice to see the sun for a couple days straight! We went to Disneyland, Santa Monica pier, and saw some family. We had a lot of fun spending time together, just the two of us!

Going up the hill at Spash Mountain

After the big splash!

Santa Monica Pier in the background

Fun times with Aunt Amy!

Darling cousins Sarah and Rachel!

Valentine's Day

2009-02-17T14:39:00.000-08:00

Remember in elementary school when Valentine's Day rolled around? The fun parties, the cheesy store-bought valentines, ah what fun! We had a party in my class the day before Valentine's, and I finally was able to take some pictures! These are some of my students. I just love 'em!

Ant Graveyard

2009-02-07T10:00:00.000-08:00

Here's another story from my 3rd graders.

Student: Mrs. Naylor, so-and-so has an ant farm in his pencil box.

Me: WHAT? So-and-so, is that true?

Students: Yeah, he has grass and dirt and a bunch of ants in there!

Me: I really hope this isn't true. So-and-so, let me see your pencil box.

Student: All of the ants are dead now, they drowned.

Me: That is disgusting. Go wash everything out in the sink. Pencil boxes are for pencils!!!!

Seriously, where do kids get this stuff?

3rd Grade Story of the Day

2009-02-02T19:36:00.000-08:00

Student: Mrs. Naylor, can I tell the class what happens if you don't wash your hands?

Me: Uh, sure. Everybody, listen to what (student) has to say.

Student: Um, uh, well, if you don't wash your hands, then you will get a worm in your brain and it'll go all around inside of your body and then they will have to do surgery to get it out.

Entire class: EEEEWWWWW!!!!

Me: Well...ok...on that note, let's all get ready for lunch.

Hang on to your knickers!

2009-01-21T19:55:00.000-08:00

Good News! I got a job teaching a 3rd grade class- of my own! YAY!!!!!! I'm so excited! It's kind of a long story how the whole thing played out, but the principal called me yesterday, and I accepted the job. Things are going to be really crazy for the next little while, but no matter. I can do it!
Anyway, just thought I'd share that tidbit with you.
I'll put some pictures and fun stuff up later.

Ch-Ch-Changes!

2009-01-15T11:04:00.000-08:00

We've had a few changes since I last posted. After Christmas, we decided to move to Sandy. We found a renter for our home in Logan, and we moved to a basement apartment in a home here in Sandy. It will be a place for us to stay and keep our stuff when we go out to New York for the summer.

Here are a couple of pics of our great friends helping us. We also had a ton of help from family. THANKS EVERYONE!!!!

I found a job at an elementary school in Alpine being a computer room teacher! I'm hoping to find a teaching job for next fall in a regular classroom (fingers crossed!)

Ryan is doing about a million things at once. He's working on getting his website developed, working at a mortgage business, and recruiting for this summer. That boy is one busy boy, but he loves it that way!

We hope y'all are doing well! Loves to everyone!

SANTA!!!!!!!

2008-12-23T09:07:00.000-08:00

Every time I see Santa or hear his name, I want to scream out just like Buddy the Elf does. There are so many great quotes and scenes from this movie, but I want to share this one with you! Enjoy

Goodbye Utah State!

2008-12-17T10:14:00.000-08:00

Saturday was a big day! We graduated together from Utah State. It was such a blizzardy day. It's so ironic- it hasn't really snowed this year, except for that day!!! The snow explains my choice of footwear :)

Three Songs I Love Right Now

2008-11-15T15:56:00.000-08:00

Do you ever have a few songs that you always keep your ear open for when you're listening to the radio? Well, these are a few that I'm lovin' right now.

1. Just For Now by Imogen Heap

2. Love Lockdown by Kanye West

3. Love Story by Taylor Swift

Halloween Havoc!

2008-11-04T17:53:00.000-08:00

We had a really fun Halloween! Here are some pictures to prove it!

These are my little first graders! They put on a Halloween program for their parents. It was the cutest thing ever! Check out their sweet costumes!

Here are my new students. 5th grade! They also had cool costumes. They're crazy kids!

We went to dinner with 3 other couples. Some of us dressed up, some didn't. We went to our house afterward and watched "When a Stranger Calls." It was scary! If you babysit a lot, don't watch this movie.

Big Moment!!!

2008-10-26T21:12:00.000-07:00

This past week here on campus was Homecoming. On Friday night, we became TRUE AGGIES!!! Yay! For those of you who don't know what that means, in order to become a True Aggie, you have to stand on the "A" at midnight when the moon is full on Homecoming Nightand kiss someone who is not yet a True Aggie. USU was trying to break a world record of the most couples kissing at one time, but I'm not sure if they broke it. Anyway, it was fun for us to become True Aggies with each other. What a fun memory.

We took this picture from Ryan's phone at True Aggie Night. There were probably about 500 people there. It was crazy!

This is what the "A" looks like!

2008-10-23T13:50:00.000-07:00

It's been FOREVER since I've posted. I've been such a busy crazy woman. I got this idea from my auntie Diana. Thanks, Di! Love you!

1. Started your own blog 2. Slept under the stars 3. Played in a band 4. Visited Hawaii 5. Watched a meteor shower 6. Given more than you can afford to charity 7. Been to Disneyland 8. Climbed a mountain 9. Held a praying mantis 10. Sang a solo 11. Bungee jumped 12. Visited Paris 13. Watched a lightning storm at sea 14. Taught yourself an art from scratch 15. Adopted a child 16. Had food poisoning 17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty. 18. Grown your own vegetables 19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France 20. Slept on an overnight train 21. Had a pillow fight 22. Hitch hiked 23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill 24. Built a snow fort 25. Held a lamb 26. Gone skinny dipping 27. Run a Marathon 28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice 29. Seen a total eclipse 30. Watched a sunrise or sunset 31. Hit a home run . 32. Been on a cruise 33. Seen Niagara Falls in person 34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors 35. Seen an Amish community 36. Taught yourself a new language 37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied 38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person 39. Gone rock climbing 40. Seen Michelangelo’s David 41. Sung karaoke . 42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt 43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant 44. Visited Africa 45. Walked on a beach by moonlight 46. Been transported in an ambulance 47. Had your portrait painted 48. Gone deep sea fishing 49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person 50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris 51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling 52. Kissed in the rain 53. Played in the mud 54. Gone to a drive-in theater 55. Been in a movie 56. Visited the Great Wall of China 57. Started a business 58. Taken a martial arts class 59. Visited Russia 60. Served at a soup kitchen 61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies 62. Gone whale watching 63. Got flowers for no reason 64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma 65. Gone sky diving 66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp 67. Bounced a check 68. Flown in a helicopter 69. Saved a favorite childhood toy 70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial 71. Eaten Caviar 72. Pieced a quilt 73. Stood in Times Square 74. Toured the Everglades 75. Been fired from a job 76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London 77. Broken a bone 78. Been on a speeding motorcycle 79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person 80. Published a book 81. Visited the Vatican 82. Bought a brand new car 83. Walked in Jerusalem 84. Had your picture in the newspaper 85. Read the entire Bible 86. Visited the White House . 87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating 88. Had chickenpox 89. Saved someone’s life 90. Sat on a jury 91. Met someone famous 92. Joined a book club 93. Lost a loved one 94. Had a baby 95. Seen the Alamo in person 96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake 97. Been involved in a law suit 98. Owned a cell phone 99. Been stung by a bee

Looks like I've got lots left to do!

Student Teaching

2008-09-28T12:15:00.000-07:00

So I'm in the middle of student teaching right now. I have two weeks left in the 1st grade, then I'll be in a 5th grade the rest of the semester. It's been a really good experience to be in a 1st grade. I've learned a ton. For instance:

-They fart a lot!
-They ask you about EVERYthing.
-They correct you if you're "doing it wrong".
-They give you hugs as often as possible.
-They tell you "I like your hair today, but not yesterday."
-They ask, "Is Abraham Linocln a prophet?"
-They are probably the cutest kids in the school.

This is my first time being in a 1st grade. I've been in 4th, 2nd, and 5th, and I feel like I'm more suited for 4th or 5th grade. I guess we'll see how 5th goes in a couple weeks.

As a graduation requirement, I'm making a teaching portfolio. That's why I have these pictures.

The Latest With Us

2008-09-14T21:19:00.001-07:00

We've been able to do some fun things on the weekends. These first pics are from the Demolition Derby here in Logan. YEEAAH!

These next pictures are from our Pinnacle Manager's retreat up in Driggs, Idaho. We were able to go spend some time in the outdoors. Ryan was in heaven! I learned how to fly fish a little. We had a really fun time!

This was at the Aggie football game yesterday against the Utes. What can I say about our team except: Yikes! In this picture are Ryan's uncle, Ryan's grandpa, and Ryan's cousin Mikella who goes to USU. Uncle Jim and Gramps came up to Logan for the game. Clearly, they're Utes fans. It was good to see them.

And...We're Back

2008-09-03T19:26:00.000-07:00

So, we made the trip! We left Maryland, and spent the first night in Ohio. The next day we drove to Utah. It took us 26 hours. No stopping. Yikes. Well, now we're back in Logan going to school. One more semester and we're done.

Ryan packed our car to the brim. What a guy!

We were able to go to a friend's wedding at the Columbus, Ohio Temple.

Ryan sleeping

I got my first speeding ticket-lame. Don't mess with lady cops.

U.S. Capitol and Pentagon Tours

2008-08-21T07:41:00.000-07:00

The dome of the Rotunda

Ryan inside the Capitol Rotunda

I know it is very hard to see, but this hallway is full of paintings of accomplishments throughout United States history. It's beautiful!

The Old Supreme Court Chamber. They met here from 1810-1860.

This star-looking thing is the exact middle of the city of Washington D.C. It's also the center of the Capitol.

Scott & Heidi, and Lane & Stephanie. Other couples out here sellin' with us. This was in the underground tunnel on the way to the Capitol!

Goof-Ball

So Serious

My Little Project

2008-08-15T10:09:00.000-07:00

I have found that when I have too much time on my hands, I go insane! There is much to do here, so this summer has been relatively looney-free at our apartment. Still, there have been some crazy moments. By the time June rolled around, I decided to start an art project. I got this idea from some art pieces on Ballard Designs. Rather than paying around $200 per painting (ridiculous!), I did it myself. I realize it's totally amateur, but oh well. I had to start somewhere. Any suggestions on what I should frame them in?
I want to thank my Grandma Joan for giving me a confidence boost to do this. She is an amazing artist, seamstress, and crafty woman!

This is the image I got off the internet that I modeled my paintings after.

The Final Product

DAY-CATION to NYC

2008-08-14T09:11:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, we were able to drive to NYC. It takes about 3 hours from Baltimore without traffic. Since Ry has Sunday as his only day off, we call our trip a day-cation. We spent time in China Town, Times Square, Union Square, and a little time on Long Island. So fun! Our way home was a total disaster. It was raining, and the storm caused a tree to fall in the middle of the highway. Since there is basically one way to get from NYC to Baltimore, traffic was backed way up. I think the lowest point was when I thoguht they gave us "egg-mcnuggets". At that point, I was a little delirious due to the fact that we were starving and had only moved 1 mile in an hour! Long story short: it took us 6 hours to get home. Double the time it should've taken us!!! Sheesh!

In China Town

Also In China Town. "Purse? Handbag? Rolex?"

Brooklyn, that's me!

Us in Times Square.

Two Weeks From Now...

2008-08-12T07:03:00.000-07:00

...we'll be back home in Logan, UT. Two weeks from now, we'll be back at school for one last semester. Two weeks from now we'll be able to settle into our townhome that we bought about a week before we left for this summer.
To tell the truth, I'm not that excited to be back in school. I will be doing my student teaching, so I won't have to sit in class, but I'm going to be writing lesson plans like a mad-woman! Watch out! Hopefully I'll feel better about everything when it gets started. I think the underlying problem is "senior-itis".
It will be nice to spend time with Ryan again. I've really missed that this summer. He works from about 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. everyday except Sunday. This job requires sacrifices, but all in all, we have decided it's worth it.
It's kinda weird to me that it's already time to leave. This summer has gone by really quickly for me. I spent about six weeks working at a tennis summer camp for kids, and that probably made it go by fast. Plus, there is a ton to do out here on the east coast. I've really enjoyed getting to know the people, and becoming familiar with the sites.

The Naylors' Visit!

2008-08-05T14:07:00.000-07:00

The Naylors came out to Maryland this past week or so. It was great to have visitors to spice things up! We did so many things. 1-Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown, Virginia 2-Monticello (Thomas Jefferson's estate) 3-Lots of stuff in D.C. 4-Washington D.C. Temple 5-Great Falls National Park
Thanks for the great times Naylors!

Jamestown

Pocahontas

John Smith

Bronson sitting in a really old well

Monticello

Where the Civil War ended

Sarah and Bronson in the stocks at Colonial Williamsburg

Tammy and Sarah

Kyle in front of a house at Williamsburg

Great Falls National Park

Washington D.C. Temple

Farm Fair!

2008-08-01T17:56:00.000-07:00

Whenever anyone hears that I'm from Utah out here, they automatically think I live on a farm. I think it's so funny because outside of Baltimore, Maryland is actually pretty rural and full of farms. Heidi and I went to the Farm Fair in Bel Air, Maryland today. It was seriously so fun!

This was the biggest Cow I've ever seen. It was HEEEUUUUGGE!

This was so funny to watch! The piglets were climbing all over each other just to get some milk.

Very, very large rooster!

This is a Fench rabbit. Weird looking, kinda cute.

It took some time to get the courage for this one.

Ocean City, BABY!

2008-07-20T14:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Heidi and I went to Ocean City, Maryland. It was about a 3 hour drive, but it was worth it! We had a lot of fun boogie boarding, laying out, and walking the boardwalk. If you ever get the chance to go to Ocean City, do it!

This was on the side of a building-an art gallery. I thought it was neat-o!

Some dude playing the piano.

Me and Heidi. That girl always looks good!

Ripley's Believe it or Not Museum

My Week Off

2008-07-14T17:17:00.000-07:00

I've been working as a tennis instructor to kids at a summer camp this summer, and last week I had work off. Me, Heidi, and Stephanie went to Harpers Ferry West Virginia and Antietam on Monday. On Wednesday, Heidi and I went to the Harbor. Thursday, Rachel, Heidi, and I went to Sandy Point Beach which is on the Chesapeake Bay. On Friday and Saturday, Stephanie, Heidi and I drove to upstate New York, Palmyra specifically, and saw the Hill Cumorah Pageant, the Sacred Grove, and the Grandin Printing Press (where the Book of Mormon was first published). I feel so blessed to be living in such an exciting area where there are so many things to go see. Going to Palmyra was such a testimony-builder for me. I'm so grateful to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Harpers Ferry, WV

Antietam

An Army Ship at the Harbor

Sandy Point Beach

Palmyra Trip

4th of July!

2008-07-09T08:45:00.000-07:00

Ryan had to work on the 4th, so I just chilled during the day with some of the other wives out here. We had a barbeque that evening and rode the Metro into the Harbor to watch the fireworks. There was music and a lot of people!

Us riding the Metro into downtown Baltimore (nice fake smile Ryan!)

Good Ole' Easton waiting for the Metro

This is us at the Inner Harbor with the USS Constellation and fireworks in the background.

This is me attempting to get fireworks in the background with Scott and Heidi.

Tom and Miriah at the Harbor.

Mormon Night at Camden Yards

2008-07-03T17:22:00.000-07:00

This week the Orioles had "Mormon Night" at Camden Yards. The missionaries in the area were there, and it was fun to see them. Some of these pictures are goofy, but I kinda like them anyway.

Newport Beach Reunion

2008-06-29T17:41:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago, I attended the Barlow Family Reuinion in Newport Beach, California. It was great to see everybody. I saw cousins I had never seen before, and they're beautiful! Steve and Jenn got married in Laguna alongside the coast. Lots of memories were made. I feel blessed to have this wonderful family!

Sunset on the beach

Steve and Jenn's Wedding- It was beautiful!

Cute Little Jimmy

Jason and Diana

Mike, Elaine, Zach, and Hailey

My Bro's--so handsome!

Me and My Brothers

The Gang

Disney Princess Quiz

2008-06-26T16:01:00.000-07:00

I took the Disney Princess quiz online. I got the idea from my friend Rachel. Thanks, Rachel!

And the answer is...
Cinderella

You poor girl, working your hands to the bone for your wicked stepmother and ugly stepsisters. Cinderella first scrubbed up for her role in Cinderella (1950)

If you want to take this quiz, here is the link: http://www.youthink.com/quiz.cfm?action=go_detail&sub_action=take&obj_id=981

Arlington National Cemetery

2008-06-12T19:30:00.000-07:00

HOTTER THAN HADES!!!!
On Ryan's day off, we went to Arlington National Cemetery with Easton and James. The temperature was 97 degrees with 60% humidity. I've never experienced anything like it. Seriously, I had a major wake up call as I was walking around the beautiful cemetery in my long, long, long, navy blue dress. By the time we left, I realized what a wuss I am! How do people do it?!
When we showed up to the cemetery, there was a flyer at the visitor center for a Confederate Memorial to honor Jefferson Davis' 200th birthday. We said, "Why not? Let's go!" Oh, we had a grand ole' time. We sang "Dixie" with the confederates, listened to some hilarious and shocking stories of the south, and sweat our brains out!
One of the main reasons we went was to visit the burial site of my great uncle, Gayle Williams. He flew planes for the Air Force in the Korean War and Vietnam. Seeing his name along with so many other names was very sobering and humbling. I feel so blessed to be an American!

The Confederate Memorial

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Me at Gayle's Burial Site

At John F. Kennedy's Burial Site- Can you tell how hot we are?

Orioles Game

2008-06-10T19:50:00.000-07:00

Last week we had the opportunity to go to a Baltimore Orioles Game. It was a blast! The weather was great- the humidity wasn't here yet. The O's played the Red Sox and won! We went with Easton, Jake, Scott and Heidi. After the game we went to Hard Rock Cafe for some yummy food.

Go O's!

Easton and Ryan

Ryan, Me, and Easton (aka Dupree). Seriously, how akward is this picture?

Scott and Heidi

Nerds!

Ryan, Easton, Scott, Jake

Beautiful, Eh?

2008-06-06T09:16:00.001-07:00

Last week, we were able to go to the Washington, D.C. Temple. It is beautiful in pictures, but just goooorgeous in person. We are so lucky to be so close to such a wonderful place.

The First Day We Met

2008-06-04T08:57:00.000-07:00

The first time Ryan and I met was at an intramural basketball game at Utah State. I was with some girlfriends and we were going to watch a fellow ambassador buddy play. This buddy's name is Kevin. Ryan and Kevin were on the same team. After the game, Kevin introduced Ryan. That night, someone ended up taking a picture for some odd reason. My friend Nikki and I have been talking about this picture floating around somewhere, and she finally found it! She sent it to me the other day, and I think it's so funny! Anyway, it's a good thing! Because now I have this picture to be all sentimental. Tee Hee :) Sorry it's out of focus. Blame the nerd who took the picture. The people in this picture are (from left to right): Ryan, Nills, Nikki, Me, Kevin.

Fort McHenry

2008-05-29T10:04:00.000-07:00

The other day, Heidi, Rachel, and I went to Fort McHenry. It was a neat place, and it was great to learn a little more about American history.

Annie's Trip Back East!

2008-05-26T15:40:00.000-07:00

Last week, my good friend Annie from high school came and visited me. We spent about 2.5 days in Washington D.C., one day in Baltimore, one day at Gettysburg, one day in New York City, and one day in Philadelphia. WHEW! We were a couple of busy girls, and we had SO MUCH FUN! Thanks for all of the fun times, Annie!!!

Washington D.C.

Gettysburg

New York City

Philadelphia

The Harbor in Baltimore

2008-05-13T10:10:00.000-07:00

We were able to take a trip down to the harbor in Baltimore. It was kind of a rainy day, but it was still fun. I had a crab cake sandwich- yummy! As you can see, the cheesecake was delicious! Heidi's mom was in town visiting, and she was so sweet as to buy us girls some seafood seasoning. How nice of her!

Our Trip to D.C.

2008-05-08T11:26:00.000-07:00

Hello! It's been almost forever since I've posted. This past semester was insane! But here we are - in Maryland.
While our husbands are working all day, we try to keep ourselves busy. My bud Rachel (another wife) and I went to D.C. the other day using only public transportation. Can you guess how long it took us? OVER 3 HOURS JUST TO GET THERE!!!! It was an insane trip.
We learned many things. Here are some specifics:
1- leave earlier
2- dont expect trains to work properly
3- try not to get stranded in down town baltimore at 10:30 at night all by your self
4- bring snacks
5- be prepared to drop 20 bucks
6- make sure your husband also has keys to the apartment
7- say prayers
8- ignore dumb bus drivers
9- specify free water not bottled water
10- don't get on the light rail going the wrong way

Here are some pictures to prove our experience:

Intersection of D.C. metros

Me livin' it up!

Us watching The Office on the train

The U.S. Captiol Building- or is it Capital?

More of the Capitol

Me taking a picture of a poser-tourist

Washington Monument from the Capitol

Happy Valentines!

2008-02-14T11:54:00.001-08:00

Okay, some people may think it's cheesy to post pictures of your wedding that was over a year ago. What can I say--they represent the love I feel in my life! I'm so grateful to have Ryan in my life, and also to have such a wonderful family, and awesome friends.

Wicked Weekend

2008-02-09T09:50:00.001-08:00

A few weekends ago, Mom and I went to Los Angeles to see Wicked. It was truly amazing! Grandma and Grandpa Barlow live near Los Angeles, and they hosted us. The warm weather and fun activities were just what we needed. Thanks Mom for the fun time!

Ryan's Birthday!!!

2008-01-18T07:06:00.000-08:00

24! Wow- that's old! hehe, kidding. Ryan's birthday was on the 13th, and we had his family over, along with cousins Easton and Mikella. It was a grand ole time. Once again, I didn't take enough pictures!

Christmas Break

2008-01-17T16:53:00.000-08:00

I know it's been forever since I posted something...what can I say? I'm a nerd! I've decided that I need to be better at taking pictures of things. I always forget about the camera, and then the next day I think to myself- oh yeah, that would've been a great photo...dang! So, I only have a few pics from Christmas break, so enjoy.

My Bro's

FINALS WEEK!!!!

2007-12-10T19:45:00.001-08:00

Ah, Finals week...What a bitter-sweet time of the year. It's great to be DONE with classes, yet cramming for the tests is THE WORST!!! I've got two finals, and Ryan has three. The good thing is, the week goes by fast, so the sooner, the better:)

Trip to the Dominican Republic

2007-11-29T21:31:00.000-08:00

Last week we went to the Dominican Republic, where Ryan served his mission. Yolanda, a girl he baptized, was getting married in the Santo Domingo Temple, and we wanted to be there, so we went! We spent time in Ryan's mission and visited his old stomping grounds. It was great to see people he taught, the houses he lived in, and the streets he walked.
We went to the capital of the country, Santo Domingo, and visited with one of Ryan's mission companions, Jordan Vargas, and also visited la Casa Rosada. La Casa Rosada is an orphanage of children who are HIV positive. 4Life, the company my dad works for, gives them money to build a new addition to the orphanage as well as medication for the children. It was amazing to see these children and what their lives are like.
The last portion of our trip was in a city called Punta Cana. Punta Cana is a resort city. We basically chilled on the beach for three days. It was saweet!
It was so great to go to the D.R. It was a perfect way to spend our Thanksgiving:)

Disco Fever!

2007-10-30T21:20:00.000-07:00

This was at the 4Life Convention!

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Our Summer 2007

2007-10-29T13:54:00.000-07:00

We moved to St. Louis MO this summer for Ryan's job. He sells home security systems. Here are some pictures of St. Louis and our trip we took to Chicago. It was so fun!

This was at Mark Twain's home town, Hannibal MO

Israel Barlow is an ancester of mine. I'm standing at his statue in Nauvoo, IL!

This picture is of Ryan standing by a painting in the Chicago Art Museum. It was amazing.

We took an architecture tour of Chicago on a boat. Sa-weet!

This is us at Navy Pier with the city in the background.

Right before we left St. Louis, we were able to go to a St. Louis Rams game. Here we are in the stadium.

Wedding Pictures 12.19.2006

2007-05-26T12:44:00.001-07:00