tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27532789684114178582024-02-19T08:46:47.186-08:00The Life and Times of Dachshund CentralMarceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-77574392059524465132011-05-19T20:48:00.000-07:002011-05-19T20:55:47.265-07:00My baby is growing up to fast!On Monday May 16th my baby hit the milestone I knew was coming but dreaded all the same. He figured out he can walk. Just a few steps at a time for now but it is getting more more common to watch him see if he can make it across a space without support. I have known this day was coming for a while. Ever since he could hold his head up on his own, he prefers standing to just about everything else. He only crawled because it was the fastest way to get where he wanted to go. He has been walking holding on to things for at least 3 months and he just scoots along the couch like a turbo charged engine. But now...now he can do it on his own! <div><br /></div><div>It is exciting to watch him get more and more independent but a little scary. What if he won't need his mommy anymore? I know he still will but the more milestones he reaches the closer we get to the day he won't need me. And I know it's my job to teach him how to reach that point but I am going to whine just a little about it on the way.</div><div><br /></div><div>It has been harder than I thought it would be to leave him with people during the day while I am at work. I miss hearing his little giggle as he climbs into boxes and pulls paper out of the recycling bin but there is nothing like picking him up and watching that huge smile break out on his face and see him crawl to meet me as fast as his little knees will carry him and the HUGE hug that comes when I pick him up to say hello.</div>Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-63072615475244726422010-12-18T21:25:00.000-08:002010-12-18T21:39:22.230-08:00Yes it's true.....there is an update!It has been almost 6 months to the day that Adam joined our family! Life is hectic with a newborn! Luckily I am extremely blessed to be able to take him to work with me. I love spending all day listening to him giggle and talk to himself. He is getting so big! He is rolling over on his own and has been for awhile. One recent development is that he has learned to sit up all by himself! He will be crawling in no time!<div><br /></div><div>Tonight we introduced him to his first real food. Peaches and green beans. He seemed to like the peaches but I am pretty sure the gagging motion he made with every bite of the beans means he doesn't like those....he didn't spit any out though!</div><div><br /></div><div>He has his 6 month check up the week after Christmas. I am so excited to celebrate his first Christmas! I have had to exercise extreme willpower not to buy him everything in sight! Nathan says he doesn't understand Christmas which I know he doesn't but you will never convince me that he spends hours looking at the lights on the tree for any other reason than he loves them as much as his mommy!</div>Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-51136361020353445322010-06-24T09:11:00.000-07:002010-06-24T10:29:03.520-07:00He's HERE!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXGDKpI-FKp8sZRMU8ypEielRmowPmIVlDOEOhKpt4oZ8rWhDLKEUIUb9FyJV604ulyTNNBUMryVDxS-ALIZXK3T6QFOA4Pi4F-BK3Cp-hkZsOlllP7T8yyW73MNytmyoSSvkDWYjJbfM/s1600/AdamCorley.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXGDKpI-FKp8sZRMU8ypEielRmowPmIVlDOEOhKpt4oZ8rWhDLKEUIUb9FyJV604ulyTNNBUMryVDxS-ALIZXK3T6QFOA4Pi4F-BK3Cp-hkZsOlllP7T8yyW73MNytmyoSSvkDWYjJbfM/s320/AdamCorley.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486393203307144546" /></a><br />I cannot believe it! After 9 months and 26 hours of labor, Louis Adam Corley joined us on Father's day at 3:17 a.m.<div><br /></div><div>Poor Nathan spent his birthday at the hospital with me but our little guy decided to let daddy continue to have his own birthday and he would take the day after.</div><div><br /></div><div>I went into labor at 2 am on Saturday June 19th. I didn't even realize it was labor at first because all of the pain was in my back. But by 5 the pains were regular and about every 3-5 mins apart. I woke up Nathan to take me to the hospital. We got there and they hooked up all the monitors and checked me out. I was dilated to a 3 but 2 hours later had made no progress so they gave me a shot of morphine and sent me home with instructions that if I hadn't made any progress by Monday to follow up with my doctor.</div><div><br /></div><div>We got home and I tried to sleep but wasn't having much success. Then I realized my contractions were getting stronger. By 3 that afternoon I was in so much pain that I couldn't stand up when a contraction came. I had Nathan take me back to the hospital and 15 mins after we got there, I was in a room and getting an epidural. I have to say, natural is not the way for me. People who want to go that route are welcome to it but give me an epidural any time. Nathan jokes that after I had one, he didn't think I was in labor any more.</div><div><br /></div><div>And then began the waiting. When we went in at 3 I was dilated to a 5 it took until midnight for me to get the rest of the way. At midnight, the nurse came in and we started pushing. Three hours later, Adam joined our little family at 7 lbs 12 ozs and measuring 20 and a half inches long. Because I had to push for so long, I developed a fever and passed it along to the baby so shortly after he was born, they whisked him away to check him out. Nathan went with him to the nursery to watch. Two hours later he was back but the baby wasn't yet. They moved me to my post-partum room and a couple of hours later they finally brought my baby back to me. The pediatrician wanted to keep him as long as she did just to make sure that the fever was caused by my labor and not something else but she said he was a well baby and everything looked fine.</div><div><br /></div><div>It has been an adjustment that is for sure. As we left the hospital Tuesday morning, Nathan looked at me and said "They are letting us take him home, are they nuts?" I kind of echo that sentiment. I have no idea what I am doing! He is a beautiful, sweet baby and so far he has been pretty easy to take care of. I know that will change but I am enjoying this first week as much as I possibly can!</div><div><br /></div><div>Welcome to our family Adam! I fell in love with you the moment I found out you would be joining us and fell even more in love when I held you! You are the best Father's day present your daddy and I could have hoped for!</div>Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-61081664135232325092010-05-30T17:32:00.000-07:002010-05-30T18:13:52.954-07:00Baby Shower<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksWaDLjqpzAJBG_raYc1oFMnO-9VYUuD0BBWKHIatqARh4zMSE_7oDPPaQeHmAct6CjsX5m_SCdR8W8l-RLwxTRyn87vXr8fYhtAyAx8PjF1RewI0-PcaQZtwxHWJeg5t4dztuaEhio0/s1600/DSC_0030.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksWaDLjqpzAJBG_raYc1oFMnO-9VYUuD0BBWKHIatqARh4zMSE_7oDPPaQeHmAct6CjsX5m_SCdR8W8l-RLwxTRyn87vXr8fYhtAyAx8PjF1RewI0-PcaQZtwxHWJeg5t4dztuaEhio0/s320/DSC_0030.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477229132010919842" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCJ301Y72yEcuFQBsjJrm2QhkndVFaJjr9hHZcUterY-S6eZGdUwvwbFzmRRY4USsYqPThTS8noefIriWbpkgmkQxDcQfg42KtTVnBNVC7puNvUbwlKzRwqvvZHoxmqCh9iklfk1VwTV4/s1600/DSC_0029.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCJ301Y72yEcuFQBsjJrm2QhkndVFaJjr9hHZcUterY-S6eZGdUwvwbFzmRRY4USsYqPThTS8noefIriWbpkgmkQxDcQfg42KtTVnBNVC7puNvUbwlKzRwqvvZHoxmqCh9iklfk1VwTV4/s320/DSC_0029.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477229125376087122" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioz4mtnpSa0tdiGaQaFoY_JwhwJwSqG6kS-4Em_mpaIV79IcKvQXBt3Dcen1K5AQ1JXj2QRvnSkWTB_Fw32zliOx1oT7wl21l6IrocJacqEJ_jCDUGQ_hk5P2C-zq1pDwMr7hczZzqZew/s1600/DSC_0024.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioz4mtnpSa0tdiGaQaFoY_JwhwJwSqG6kS-4Em_mpaIV79IcKvQXBt3Dcen1K5AQ1JXj2QRvnSkWTB_Fw32zliOx1oT7wl21l6IrocJacqEJ_jCDUGQ_hk5P2C-zq1pDwMr7hczZzqZew/s320/DSC_0024.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477229117392267490" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOBz5ZrxoCLmyIY8Hfj2i8TzzBWurTOhsnVxSyoB2M6MX0SNfJMQk4S0-NmzHTg3wilujWxwyK0G_B2QVjK1TWbq5sfi7EmtjgVQFSo284eSz5BwG6r2JByj4tFyBjVRsr-whd1w1QTR4/s1600/DSC_0025.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOBz5ZrxoCLmyIY8Hfj2i8TzzBWurTOhsnVxSyoB2M6MX0SNfJMQk4S0-NmzHTg3wilujWxwyK0G_B2QVjK1TWbq5sfi7EmtjgVQFSo284eSz5BwG6r2JByj4tFyBjVRsr-whd1w1QTR4/s320/DSC_0025.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477229109375968098" /></a><br />Okay. It has taken a month but I am finally blogging about the wonderful baby shower my good friend threw for me. Now if I can remember how to post pictures we should be good to go! :)<div><br /></div><div>So about 5 months ago, my friend Julia asked if she could throw a baby shower for me. I know, I know...5 months early seems extreme but at the time, she was pregnant with her 3rd baby and since she doesn't have very easy births, she wanted to get a lot of it planned before she had to recover from the birth and have a hectic life with a newborn. Unfortunately, tragedy struck and her sweet, beautiful baby was only destine for this earth for a few short hours. I knew when I found out that it would be incredibly hard for her to put on a happy face for me while celebrating the baby I was expecting. I told my mom and sister what had happened and asked if they would be willing to step in if Julia was feeling like she didn't want to do it. They of course said yes. However, being the wonderful friend that she is, she still wanted to help me celebrate. </div><div><br /></div><div>I cannot tell you how much it meant to me that she was willing, after everything she had been through, to help me celebrate my little boy. We were small in numbers but had a great time! The food was wonderful and the decorations adorable! We had chicken pasta salad, stuffed strawberries, homemade rolls with honey butter, a cream cheese braid, and fresh fruit. It meant the world that my wonderful friends were willing to take time out of their day to come see me and help me get ready for my baby's birth. I love you all!</div><div> </div>Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-58955561125591715632010-04-21T14:51:00.000-07:002010-04-21T15:01:48.022-07:00Time flies...WOW! It seems like just yesterday that I was sending Nathan a picture of a positive pregnancy test and jumping up and down with excitement. And now we are down to the last 8 weeks of it just being the two of us. Somehow, I don't feel ready and yet I want our precious little boy here with us.<br /><br />We have spent the last two weeks getting the nursery prepared and painted. We still have a lot to do but the walls are finished and we are making slow but steady progress. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Unfortunately</span> with everything we have been doing, I have been so focused on finishing baby projects, I have neglected the regular everyday chores....like grocery shopping....<br /><br />I went in to see the the doctor last <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Thursday</span> and since all the non-stress tests look good and the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">AFI</span> ultrasounds are normal, I don't have to do that every week any more which is nice. Although, I am not sure it matters since I have to go in every other week and we are getting closer to the time I have to go in every week. But when the doctor checked out our little guy last week, he said he is doing great and seems to be just wiggling along happy as a clam.<br /><br />While I hate having to spend so much time at the doctor's office, it brings me great relief <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">every time</span> I hear my son's heart beating away strong and regular. While I will not miss the non-stress tests, I will miss the weekly ultrasound and seeing how he is growing and progressing.<br /><br />At least I only have 8 more weeks until I see the little guy who I have been getting to know for the last 7 months.Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-27383765818510680812010-03-30T19:18:00.000-07:002010-03-30T19:22:47.952-07:00Why oh why.....Okay. About 2 weeks ago, I ended up in the doctors office because it had been 5 days and I hadn't felt the baby move. The doctor checked his heart rate and we did a non-stress test and everything appeared fine, I just couldn't feel him. The next night Nathan and I went to a birthday party for his boss. The entertainment for the evening was a gentleman by the name of Jason Hewlett. He is a stand up comedian and does impersonations of musical acts. The minute the first song started, the baby started jumping around and wiggling his little heart out. SERIOUSLY!! You couldn't have done this yesterday BEFORE the doctor decided that I needed to go in every week for a non-stress test?!? WHY?!?Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-75922475589120691922010-03-06T16:01:00.001-08:002010-03-06T16:20:42.457-08:00OuchWhat a day. Today has been spent cleaning, cleaning, cleaning with more on the horizon. Since our house is so small, I am giving up my office room for the sake of having room for all the baby things....like a crib. Add another plus to having a baby and a small house with no storage space. It forces you to throw out more stuff than you even realized you owned! A few weeks ago, Nathan and I went through closets and drawers and filled up the bed of his truck with bags and boxes for the DI. Today, add 4 more bags and a box to that total. I have to get them to DI quickly however before I break down and keep all the shoes I am donating. <div><br /></div><div>The goal, for me at least, is to have everything cleaned out and ready to prep for painting by next <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Saturday</span>. Hey, it could happen. Although paint will have to wait until we can actually decide on colors or a theme or anything. </div><div><br /></div><div>Nathan spent most of the morning in the crawl space. It is dirty and yucky and gross and I was glad I didn't have to go down there. With losing the little storage space we have been able to use in my office, we decided it was time to pull out the dryer and start moving stuff down there. Once we adjust (a.k.a. move) the location for the washer and dryer so that we can access it easily, it will actually create quite a bit of storage space. Although I wouldn't store anything down there that can't be cleaned easily or is in 100% air tight containers.....</div>Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-7265789516913032422010-02-03T12:24:00.000-08:002010-02-03T12:47:15.483-08:00Halfway thereI cannot believe I am halfway to this baby being here! Time has flown and yet some days seems to drag on forever! We had the ultrasound 2 weeks ago and where shown that my "motherly instinct" does not extend to the sex of the baby. I was sure we were having a girl but as the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">technician</span> was moving around to get all the measurements, there he was with his legs spread wide open making sure we knew he was a BOY! I guess like father like son. :) Anyway, I have started to feel little flutters like butterflies in my tummy and the doctor says these are most likely me feeling our little boy wiggling around. He is <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">defiantly</span> a wiggler. The ultrasound technician had a hard time getting a couple of measurements because he wouldn't hold still long enough. It is a shame that we were so sure it was a girl we didn't even discuss boy names...<br /><br />I had an appointment on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Tuesday</span> of this week. Everything is going just fine. It makes me a little relieved since this last week has been tough. A good friend of mine gave birth to a beautiful little girl last Sunday who was only destine for this earth for a few short hours. My heart breaks for her and the pain she is going through and more selfishly, worry for my little man. It was a great relief to get to hear his heartbeat, strong as always, showing the doctor just how wiggly he is.<br /><br />Before this pregnancy, I would not have classified myself as a worrier. I was wrong. Maybe it is worse since this is the first baby for us, but I worry. Is what I am feeling normal? Am I eating enough and good food for the baby? Should I have felt something that I haven't? The list goes on. I try to let things go and just say it will all work out in the end but it is more than a little hard sometimes. Which seems odd considering that during 3 years of infertility problems, I almost always had the attitude that it will happen when the Lord says it will.<br /><br />Perhaps, I need to remind myself more often that the Lord has a plan for us and the tragedies, sorrows, worries, comforts, joys, and blessings we all ineveitably have are part of it for reasons we may not ever understand while in this life. But the atonement is there to get us through all of it. No matter how hard or easy it seems to be right now, the Lord has already felt it and is waiting for us to lean on Him to get through.Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-69342194030004100312010-01-15T22:21:00.000-08:002010-01-15T22:33:35.070-08:00Weekly Planning MeetingSo Nathan and I have kind of gotten into the habit of every Sunday before bed talking about Church and the observations we made during the week and during the lessons at church. This last Sunday we had Ward Conference. The Sunday School lesson was on pre-ordination but inevitably, the discussion turned to service. Nathan made an interesting observation that I had never really thought about but was so impressed by I would like to share it here.<div><br /></div><div>The discussion turned how we should pray for opportunities to serve the people who are less fortunate than us. What about the people who are MORE fortunate than us? Do they not need our love and service just as much? In President Bensons talk on pride he said that many of us define pride as people at the top looking down but the much more common sin of pride is people on the bottom looking up.</div><div><br /></div><div>It made me realize that just because I look at someone and think they are more fortunate than me, they still have trials and they still need service I might be able to provide. So I think from now on, I will stop praying for opportunities to serve those less fortunate and just start praying to be able to recognize opportunities to serve.</div>Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-36471728154950339222009-12-04T19:45:00.000-08:002009-12-04T19:53:00.647-08:00So here is the big news.....I have to apologize for not posting for awhile but I have had big big news that Nathan was sure I was going to spill before we told our families....but I held out and now they know. So I can make it general knowledge I guess. Plus it helps that I am now starting to believe it.<div><br /></div><div>We went to the Dr on wednesday of this week. I think hearing the heartbeat made it all real. That's right folks, after several years of trying, I am pregnant! 12 weeks and I can now breath a little easier. </div><div><br /></div><div>It didn't sink in until I actually heard that little heart beating away at 156 bpm. I guess part of that is because except for a few days of sickness, so far it has been easy. I haven't really felt pregnant so it is a little hard to believe. </div><div><br /></div><div>We told everyone on Thanksgiving. I thought is was very fitting since this year especially we have a lot to be thankful for. Nathan has a good job that provides for our needs, we have a baby coming, we have wonderful friends and family that are close. What more can I ask for?</div><div><br /></div><div>P.S. The middle of June is the big day!</div>Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-54353769032994459432009-09-28T21:32:00.001-07:002009-09-28T21:42:47.250-07:00Sometimes......Sometimes life hands you things that make you sit up and examine what you are missing. Whether in relationships, work, friends, social activities, whatever. It is in those moments that you define who you are and who you want to be. It is to bad we can't see where those things will lead however. Is it enough to be content or is happiness more important? Is it still love if passion takes a back seat to life? Is it more important to get what you want than be who you want? These are the questions we are forced to answer on a daily basis....but what do you do if the answer changes hourly?<div><br /></div><div>The last several weeks I have been constantly trying to decide what the answers to these questions are. I have berated myself for not having the answers and reminded myself that it's okay that I don't. And now I have reached a place that I am more confused than ever. :)</div><div><br /></div><div>Just when I think that I have my life planned out, something or someone throws a wrench in it. Which contrary to popular belief is not a bad thing. I have learned it is important to be shaken up sometimes in order to force us to examine what is important. And I have learned that it is okay if that shaking makes you step out of your comfort zone. If only because we become better people, better friends, better companions, and better parents by constantly examining the path we are treading and readjusting course if necessary.</div>Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-75649719649921259032009-05-28T19:29:00.000-07:002009-05-28T19:32:05.420-07:00Okay one more thingSo I randomly found this blog: <div>http://theweedons.blogspot.com<div><br /></div><div>She is giving away this cool skirt called a binsi. Just go check it out. And before anyone asks, no I am not pregnant. I plan to be someday and since it is a giveaway, I want to win! :)</div></div>Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-60990315326131662762009-05-28T18:58:00.000-07:002009-05-28T19:15:51.046-07:00Randomness that has been going through my brainOkay, this blog entry will have nothing even close to resembling continuity, train of thought, or even a central theme.<div><br /></div><div>First off, I am relieved that the California State Supreme Court upheld Prop 8 but not for the reasons you might think. It doesn't really matter where I stand on the issue because my personal feelings are not the point. What does matter is that the majority of Californians voted in favor of it and the Supreme Court upheld those peoples opinions. It seems like to often now days people are cowed into supporting a cause they don't believe in for fear of being called a bigot or worse. Correct me if I am wrong but hating someone for disagreeing with your opinion makes you just as much a bigot as you seem to think they are. People want their rights recognized and upheld but that doesn't extend to people having the right to disagree with them. </div><div><br /></div><div>On to the next tangent. I have come to realize that there are people in this world who are so busy trying to convince people that they are something (liberal, conservative, democrat, republican, any number of religions including my own) that they don't have time to actually live the way they say they believe. Actions speak far louder than words.</div><div><br /></div><div>We recently got back from a 9 day vacation with my parents, Mike, and Ashlee. I learned a lot about my family. Not all of it good. But we did have a great time and we got to see a lot of places that I haven't been for awhile. We are working on a surprise for the family but I can't say anything more about it since Ashlee might actually read this! (If she can remember the URL :P).</div><div><br /></div><div>For my birthday, Nathan broke down and got me a Kindle from Amazon. For those of you who don't know it is Amazon's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">ereader</span>. It uses cell phone technology to download content as well as <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">USB</span>. So basically anywhere you get coverage from the Sprint network, you can download books from amazon.com. Very cool but I have limited myself to 3 books a week or I will be broke in about 5 seconds flat. I ended up getting it almost a month early since I had a super crappy week and Nathan told me about it to cheer me up. Once I knew about it, it was either fork it on over or have me drive him nuts about it for a month. It came while he was out of town and we stopped at the office after I picked him up at 11:30 p.m. to get before I went crazy! I am not normal, I know!</div><div><br /></div><div>I told you this post had nothing coherent holding it together but since you are still reading, it must not matter. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">LOL</span> Sorry about the mini rant but sometimes you just need to get it out there. I am done.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-51881624417968987692009-02-16T15:08:00.000-08:002009-02-16T15:13:32.562-08:00Quick updateI had a final doctor appointment today with the eye doctor. She just wanted to check and make sure that the infection that I have been dealing with isn't coming back now that I am off all the medications that I was taking for it. I am happy to report, everything looks normal except for the scar that will be there forever. She did say I was <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">extremely</span> lucky because if the scar had formed even a millimeter closer to my pupil, at the very least it would have left me with a blind spot. Worse case would be that I could have lost my vision in that eye <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">completely</span>. That being said, with the type of infection that I had, 25% of people have a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">recurrence</span> within the first year. 90% have one within 5-10 years. So it is not a question of if it will come back, it is when. Luckily, now I know how serious it is, I can get in the minute I start having symptoms so the scar I have shouldn't get any bigger.Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-69474338885323679162009-01-22T13:12:00.000-08:002009-01-22T13:31:28.786-08:00The Facebook PhenomenonRecently I have discovered that I am a huge part of the "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Facebook</span> Phenomenon". I read an article the other day that said if <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">facebook</span> was a country, it would be the 8<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">th</span> most populated country in the WORLD! I believe it since I am on it almost everyday. Most days, I get to work and update my status before I ever start my job. I then leave it open in the background while I work. Some days I check it obsessively, some days not so much. There are pluses to this vast social networking site.<br /><br />Recently, I got an email saying that an old friend wanted to add me. Not a huge thing in and of itself. However, it just so happens that this friend is one that I would say was my best friend growing up. I lost track of him after his family moved out of the neighborhood and have often wondered how he is doing and what he is up to. When he added me as a friend on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">facebook</span>, we were able to spend about 3 hours getting caught up. I was amazed by how much I had missed his friendship and input and am grateful that we have been able to reconnect.<br /><br />In the last several weeks, I have been struck by the creativity bug. I have really started writing again after not being to serious about it for months if not years. I have also re-evaluated where I am at in life and where I would like to be. I have set new goals and am hopeful of a change in direction.<br /><br />Nathan has been working much to hard as usual. He spent 3 days in first 2 weeks of January at home and while he is home this week, he may as well not be since I haven't seen him at all. He is leaving again next week. At least this time, I won't have to get text messages from him saying that is is 76 degrees where he is while I am freezing my behind off in 30 degree weather. Although, even though it hasn't snowed for weeks, I suspect that this next week I will be shoveling a lot. It always snows when Nathan is gone in the winter.Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-3460774437717687612009-01-06T20:51:00.000-08:002009-01-06T21:08:44.760-08:00One of three choicesSo either my ophthalmologist really likes me, really likes my money, or really is worried and wants to make sure I am okay. Whatever the reason, I see her more that I see my family.<div><br /></div><div>About 1 and a half months ago, I started having some serious issues with my eye. I was super sensitive to light, it always felt like there was something in it, and I noticed a cloudy area when I looked in the mirror. I called and made an appointment with the first doctor who could get me in immediately. I was very lucky because Dr. Smith was able to see me within a couple of days. I went in and she looked at my eye and it was obvious she was more than a little concerned. As we discussed the problems I had been having she explained that I had some how managed to scratch my cornea and it had become infected. Where it was located if we didn't get the infection under control, I could lose my sight in that eye. So she gave me some antibiotic drops and made and appointment for 3 days later. She also gave me her cell number so if anything changed, I could get a hold of her. That was on friday. Three days later I go in and there is no change so she added an ointment that I have to put in before I go to bed each night and made an appointment for two days later. Two days later at the check-up there has still been no change so she added an anti-viral pill that I have to take 5 TIMES A DAY!! What a pain! Two days later I am back for a check-up. It is still not getting better but it is not worse either so that is a good sign! She upped the times per day I had to use the ointment and added another round of anti-viral so I would take it for 17 days instead of just 7. I went in 2 days before Christmas and still no improvement so she referred me to the cornea specialist. Luckily however, she talked to the specialist and they decided to just start me on steroids to see if that will help. I went back the monday after Christmas and there was a little improvement. Hooray! Now I get to go 2 whole weeks without seeing her! The bad news is that I am probably going to be on anti-viral medication for an extended period of time and there is a high probability that this infection will recur so it will mean check ups every 3-6 months to make sure we catch it before it does any more damage than the scar that will be left when this whole thing is done.</div><div><br /></div><div>Makes me wonder, is being blind in one eye really so bad?</div>Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-84872796702056158862008-12-02T12:33:00.000-08:002008-12-24T11:28:28.643-08:00The holidays are upon usDoes it seem to anyone else that the closer we get to Christmas and what should be a time of "peace on earth, goodwill toward man" people see to get more rude and more mean? Maybe it is just me.<br /><br /><br />Anyway, Thanksgiving is over and we are moving on to Christmas. I don't focus very much on Thanksgiving simply because I try to be thanful for my blessing everyday not just on one day of the year. Wow! That came out sounding much more holier than thou then I meant it to! I guess I just feel the same way about Thanksgiving as I do about Valentine's Day. It is much more effective to be thankful and express love year round than one day. Besides, Thanksgiving is mearly the warm-up for <span style="color:#33cc00;">C</span><span style="color:#ff0000;">H</span><span style="color:#33cc00;">R</span><span style="color:#ff0000;">I</span><span style="color:#33ff33;">S</span><span style="color:#ff0000;">T</span><span style="color:#33cc00;">M</span><span style="color:#ff0000;">A</span><span style="color:#33ff33;">S</span><span style="color:#000000;">. </span><span style="color:#ffffff;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="color:#666666;">Which is my favorite (if you can't tell).</span><br /><br /></span><br /></span>Although it is worth mentioning that we have more reasons than most to be thankful this year as Primary Children's Hospital released baby Chris to come home with Becki on Thanksgiving Day.Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-67654367109124340222008-11-11T12:59:00.000-08:002008-11-11T13:14:32.998-08:00I have reached the astounding conclusion....Drug companies are not as interested in making people well as making money and insurance companies only want to spend as little as possible. Now to back up that claim!<br /><br />About a week ago I started having some severe stabbing pains in my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">stomache</span>. They were so bad that I couldn't stand up straight at times. So I took a day off work and went into the doctor. 3 hours, 4 blood draws, and a urine <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">analyisis</span> later (I am not pregnant) all the doctor could tell me was that he didn't know what was wrong and he gave me a prescription for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Prevacid</span> while we waited for the liver and pancreas tests to come back. I went to the pharmacy to fill the prescription and was told that my insurance didn't cover it and it would cost $240 for a 30 day supply. I made them call the doctor to okay filling it with a generic which...wait for it... didn't cost me a dime! Not even a co-pay!!<br /><br />Late <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">saturday</span> night, I got a call saying the lab results are back and I have a bacterial infection in my upper <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">abdomine</span> that they were calling in a prescription for. I went and picked it up last night and found out that it is 8 PILLS A DAY!!! 4 in the morning and 4 at night for 14 days. I HATE TAKING PILLS!! I don't even like taking a multi-vitamin. Something about the whole swallowing them thing just bugs me. Anyway, I go in to get the prescription and with the insurance and everything it still cost me $84!!! That is $1.33 a pill!! I guess that if it makes the pain stop I will just suck it up but still...<br /><br />The one consolation is that since it is bacterial not viral, it is not contagious which means I can still see baby Christopher. They are much more strict about what keeps you from seeing him since they moved him up to Primary Children's Medical Center.<br /><br />My mother-in-law told me yesterday that after 10 days of Christopher losing weight, he has finally started to gain some back and be able to keep down most of what he eats. The nurses keep saying that one day he is just going to wake up and "get it" and after that he will be able to come home quickly. Ruth I am sure is hoping this happens sooner rather than later not only because he is her grandson but also because Becki doesn't drive so Ruth has had to transport her to Primary Children's on a regular basis since they moved him and before that it was everyday to Jordan Valley Hospital.<br /><br />Such are the sacrifices that come with having kids!Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-24476627154946042102008-11-04T09:03:00.000-08:002008-11-04T09:29:07.410-08:00Well I am an Aunt againLast thursday my nephew was born at 5:50 p.m. at Jordan Valley Hospital. While not intending to be part of it all, I ended up in the room when the baby was born. Miracle? Yes! Gross? Yes!! Christopher Troy Yates joined us after Becki had been in labor for about 5 hours or so. He is considered premature since he was born at 36 weeks instead of 37 so they are watching him very carefully. He has been having some breathing problems but apparently that is normal for premies. His doctor has him on medicine for his acid reflux problems but he is now eating better and gaining back some of the weight he has lost. We are all relieved. Becki has been through a lot this year and I am not sure she would come out okay if something happened to this baby.Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-65026099189605784902008-10-30T08:21:00.000-07:002008-10-30T08:34:16.347-07:00HalloweenSo tomorrow is All Hallows' Eve. What I consider to be the most misunderstood holiday EVER!! Okay so if you don't know, I don't particularly like Halloween. If you are interested in what the holiday started out to be check out <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Halloween">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Halloween</a>. Anyway, I suppose when I have kids, I will give in to the pressure and dress them up and take them trick-or-treating but it doesn't mean I have to like it!! If only the kids didn't look so darn cute in their costumes! My sister-in-law started asking my <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">niece</span> several weeks ago whether she wanted to be a superhero or a witch. For 2 or 3 weeks she was walking around saying she was going to be "super <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Priya</span>" (picture that being said in a 3 year <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">old's</span> voice) however, when her mom was getting ready to go get the material to make the costume, she decided that she wanted to be a princess. Mom told her she could be either a witch or a superhero and those were her two choices so...she is going to be a witch. She is not entirely happy about it since she won't get to be the same witch she was last year but she will get over it. <br /><br />I however will be continuing my tradition of disconnecting my doorbell and hiding in the family room so I don't have to give out candy. This year it will just be me at home so it will make it extra hard to wrangle the dogs should I feel inspired to actually give out candy (don't worry, i won't). I have already told Aaron and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Marjanne</span> if they are bringing <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Priya</span> over call first so I know they are coming. Maybe next year I will have to work out a secret knock so I know it is someone I want to answer the door for. Would that be to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Gadianton</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Robberish</span>?Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-37599488915980219812008-10-28T14:48:00.001-07:002008-10-28T15:07:28.137-07:00Okay, there will be no fainting from suprise!Hey look! It is 2 in the same year! The last month has been very crazy around our house. Actually it has mostly been me driving myself nuts trying to get ready for the primary program. For those of you who don't know, I was called in February to be the primary chorister. I never realized how much work it would be when I accepted the calling. Of course, I suppose if I had known that I might have said no. I think the hardest part of the calling for me is the fact I don't have kids yet so trying to keep the 50 or so kids in our primary entertained requires me to think in a way that I am not used to! But the primary program is over and it went much better than I had hoped (I know, I know show a little faith). I had some major concerns because there were a couple of songs that we sang through the sunday before the program and the kids all sang like they had never heard the song before! But they came through! I have to say, the best choice I made was asking the bishopric to sing the second part of "A Child's Prayer". The spirit was so strong there were not very many dry eyes!<br /><br />So the drama of my life continues. As some of you know (and some of you don't) Nathan and I have been trying to have kids for just over 2 years now with no luck thus far. Just a few weeks ago, we found out that Marjanne and Aaron (my brother-in-law and sister-in-law) are pregnant with their second. I am very happy and excited for them but I did start bawling just because it isn't happening for us yet. It will in time. Yet even knowing that, it is hard to see it happening for everyone else. Nathan's sister Rebecca is about to pop with her baby. The doctor told her last week that she is starting to dialate and the baby could come anytime. I am very excited for her but at the same time scared for her as well. She is in for a rough road since she will be a single mom. (For those of you who didn't know, her husband passed away in April.) The good news is she is back living with her parents so she is closer to us.<br /><br />I guess that is about all I have to write about for now. It is back to trying to figure out what I am going to do for primary for the rest of the year! Any ideas?Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-40197456586899971892008-09-04T15:00:00.000-07:002008-09-04T14:55:04.297-07:00Well it's that time of year again!Nope, not tax time, birthday time, or anniversaries. It's not time for any major holidays. It's time for....wait for it....wait for it....The annual updating of the blog! (This is where the trumpets sound and great <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">applause</span> rings out through the land!)<br /><br /><br /><br />The last year has brought some great changes and some not so great changes. The first great change is that the wallpaper that I have hated since the day we moved in is <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">officially</span> gone. There is no trace of it to be found! After several days of scrapping, scrubbing, and losing skin off the knuckles, our walls were finally bare and ready to be painted. After living in our home for four years, we finally have two rooms that done (hey 99% counts as done in my book!). Our problem lies in the fact that neither Nathan nor I like to paint that much. I am fairly certain that if my dad hadn't shown up one day while I was sick in bed with the flu, we might still not be done painting. In fact, we may have not even started yet!<br /><br />As of last weekend, Nathan and I have been married for 4 years. It seems longer than that on <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">some days</span>. I guess we each fall into familiar patterns when you have been around someone so long. For instance, I am not a morning person. I was thinking about it the other day and realized that I have become the person I didn't <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">particularly</span> want to be. I hardly ever wear make-up, I don't do my hair all that often. It is mostly just wash and pull back. I am just thankful that Nathan is willing to put up with it.<br /><br />We were able to go to Logan to a little B&B for our anniversary. It is called Providence Inn. They have several "themed" rooms but mostly the themes are defined by decorations rather than actually scenes. For instance, this time we stay in the rose garden. So named because it has rose wall paper border and the bed spread is covered in a rose design. Anyway, back to why I started out talking about that... It was very nice to be able to spend 3 whole days with my husband! And my cell phone only rang once! Sometimes it feels like Nathan and I go days without really talking.<br /><br />While in Logan, we saw an episode of "It's Me Or The Dog" that starred a mini <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">dachshund</span>. It gave us hope that the twin <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Nazi's</span> who have been running our house for the last 4 years can actually be trained! We have recommitted ourselves to working on training them so that we can at last have people over without having to worry about making sure that they leave with all limbs attached!<br /><br />On a final random note, Nathan <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">received</span> a funny email from a friend he used to work with that stated "your blog is out of date and so is your wife." A short while later, he received another email from this same friend who wanted to know if we had a copy of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">audiobook</span> for Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Nathan being who he is promptly replied that we did but he was unsure <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">whether</span> I would be able to give it to him since I was outdated and could possibly be incompatible. The reply quickly came back that he should upgrade from version 2.0 to 2.1 since 2.0 is out of date and Nathan replied that he would prefer to wait until version 3.0 was released to see if they worked out some of the bugs!<br /><br />I love my husband!Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-34596042179734141792007-07-12T20:14:00.000-07:002007-07-12T20:43:26.617-07:00I am such a slacker!So as my brother-in-law pointed out at dinner on Sunday, I have failed to post anything about my life for oh...the last 6 months. I guess that tells you how exciting my life is.<br /><br />Well here I sit, day 6 of Nathan being out of town. I don't know what the reason is but these last two trips out of town for him, I have wanted nothing more than for him to be home with me. This week has been especially long and full of disappointment and I have wanted nothing more than a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">ginormous</span> (that word has now been added to the Webster Dictionary) hug from my hubby.<br /><br />As I think about what has been going on this week my thoughts are inevitably drawn to the blessings in my life. There is a country song song that is popular right now titled "Lucky Man". The chorus says "I'm a lucky man. God's given me a pretty fair hand." That is my life. I have been blessed with some amazing things. And yet, my life is not perfect. As weird as it sounds I am grateful for that as well. After all, what doesn't kill you, makes you stronger.<br /><br />With Nathan out of town, I have been taking full advantage of our new pass to the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Kearns</span> Fitness Center. I had not really realized how very much I missed being in the water. If I could work full time as a lifeguard for the rest of my life, I think I would be very happy. <br /><br />I have recently decided that I am going to really focus on losing weight. I have decided that I am tired of being heavy. I have been trying to really think about what I eat and how much I eat. I have only been at it a week but I feel better already. I don't feel as tired as I normally do and I feel happy. So I will <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">definitely</span> be keeping you up to date on that.<br /><br />Well I guess I will call it a night. You would not believe how hard it is to type with Madison sitting on your shoulder licking your face as fast as she can.Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-56452289852506441502007-01-21T21:53:00.000-08:002007-01-21T22:33:19.712-08:00M*A*S*H RocksSo here I sit, another sleepless night. It always happens when Nathan isn't home. I guess it is okay, it means I can watch M*A*S*H that night. I love M*A*S*H. I own all 11 seasons on DVD (thanks Becki!) Nathan doesn't quite understand the <span onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)" class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">fascination</span> behind my obsession but what can I say, I LOVE M*A*S*H!<br /><br />Nathan called tonight. I don't know how he does it. He has been working incredibly long hours this week and to top it all off they don't have the equipment to do the job right. But somehow he stills pulls it off. I am in awe of his ability to improvise. I am firmly convinced that some day the world will know what I do about him. He can do anything he puts his mind to!<br /><br />I admire him so much! He works so hard to provide for us and our future. He goes to work at a job he loves to do but at a place he hates, just so that we have what we need for our future. And yet, he still has the time and energy to play with our dogs when he gets home. I am amazed at his work ethic. He is a firm believer in doing for one's self and I love him for it.<br /><br />On an entirely different note, I am so sick of snow! We got another inch or so last night. I have to shovel the driveway tomorrow. It is so cold the snow won't melt. We still have about a foot on our front lawn from the last two storms. I swear Nathan knows when it will snow and <span onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)" class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">purposely</span> goes out of town. It happens every winter. We don't have snow for several weeks and then Nathan leaves and the NEXT DAY it drops 6-8 inches! I know he doesn't do it on purpose but sometimes I have to wonder.<br /><br />Oh! Before I forget! Madison update. I think that she is finally mellowing out! Last <span onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)" class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Saturday</span>, after our girls breakfast, Mary (a lady I have become friends with at work) and I were waiting for <span onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Somer</span> at my mom's house. My dad was watching my puppies for me since I was down in Utah County most of the day. Anyway, Madison is not known for being nice to anyone she doesn't know so I was being very careful to make sure that Mary didn't get bitten. Anyway, in what I think was record time Madison calmed down and was able to be put down without having to worry about her attacking anyone! Later that night <span onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Somer</span> and I were <span onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)" class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">waiting</span> for my sister and her husband to come down so that we could go out to dinner as a family. Anyway, I subjected Madison to more stress and introduced <span onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Somer</span>. In even shorter time than with Mary she was calm! It was amazing! I am still not willing to classify her as a nice dog but I think we are making significant progress!<br /><br />Anyway, not much interesting going on this week with Nathan gone. I guess I had better go get some sleep. Tomorrow is a work day and if I don't get some sleep I will be useless tomorrow!<br /><br />Good Night!Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2753278968411417858.post-82914308630896563482007-01-10T12:51:00.000-08:002008-12-10T01:29:27.579-08:00It's Official<div><br /><br /><div>I am offically a "work widow". I dropped Nathan off this morning early and not so bright (I am NOT a morning person). The next few weeks are going to be long and lonesome. He will be back on Sunday and leaves again on Tuesday. I knew when we started dating, he has a crappy schedule. I guess I just have to deal with it.<br /><br />On Saturday of this week, I am going to breakfast with the girls. For those of you <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyScCf0jst8r4WZ-DnUgRFWgiT1j9OZDcDbehgDBYX1IF8buj1vcorExfmtj_40DmMOYYvoGydHzZjaqSSf5aXMRA8ZpG3GoRlTLA9-xZxgboUp5Z9pRsNNMtlyTr5p3AOWpN7cixKQSg/s1600-h/Zoo+in+January.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5018518128055856802" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyScCf0jst8r4WZ-DnUgRFWgiT1j9OZDcDbehgDBYX1IF8buj1vcorExfmtj_40DmMOYYvoGydHzZjaqSSf5aXMRA8ZpG3GoRlTLA9-xZxgboUp5Z9pRsNNMtlyTr5p3AOWpN7cixKQSg/s200/Zoo+in+January.JPG" border="0" /></a>who may not know, I have a group of friends who I have been friends with for like ever! Somer, who moved in up the street from me when we were 5, Jenn who was my locker partner in 7th grade, Julia who moved in when I was a sophomore, Anna who moved in when I was a junior (I think), and Ashlee of course! Ever since we all went our seperate ways (me on my mission, Somer on hers, Anna on hers, Jenn off to college, and Ashlee doing her own thing as usual) we have been getting together at least once a month for dinner, breakfast, whatever. We use it as an opportunity to get caught up on lives that are otherwise crazy. Our little group has grown as we have made new friends or run into old ones.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNkPSQjgYUKw8Qxb12SjfxN2vlE1p0j15Uv3b1xGsLvq2fTDsIS3gTrdoNxP6p7PjfEkW1K1O71BeaIK09EocLtuON9LMk9uyA9etHBe4UlzR-4cYQ_d-jABJlW88PgCzI2UdZVeB6utQ/s1600-h/Feeling+short.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5018518849610362546" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNkPSQjgYUKw8Qxb12SjfxN2vlE1p0j15Uv3b1xGsLvq2fTDsIS3gTrdoNxP6p7PjfEkW1K1O71BeaIK09EocLtuON9LMk9uyA9etHBe4UlzR-4cYQ_d-jABJlW88PgCzI2UdZVeB6utQ/s200/Feeling+short.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />I am always amazed at the reaction I get when people hear I am still in touch with friends I have known so long. I don't know why this is so suprising, we love each other! When we get together it is as if no time has passed at all! We have been there for each other through it all, bad relationships, divorces, bad choices that have been made and the consequences that follow.<br /><br />As I think about the coming weekend, I can't help but get excited! I have been blessed with the most wonderful friends a person could wish for. They are the friends I know I can call at 3 am when things are falling apart and I know they feel the same way about me.<br /><br />The strange thing is that Nathan is blessed with the same type of friends. Jared, Spence, and Bear (Aaron) were best friends in High School and continue that friendship today. It makes it easy to understand the need to have a guys night when you have the same need with the girls.<br /><br />I suppose I consider myself a very lucky person. I have a wonderful family who I am very close to, great friends who I would do anything for (and I mean it), and a loving husband who puts up with my quirks and loves me for who I am.<br /><br />I am blessed.</div></div>Marceehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00407024742951002939noreply@blogger.com1