the Farmer and the Bride

30 Minutes

2012-01-04T23:52:00.000-07:00

Hello year 2012! I'm told by Hollywood that the end of the world is coming sometime this year. So I've decided to get my body in shape, just in case I have to run away from some zombies or something. Just in case. I mean, I will live just as long as I can out run someone else :) that's my plan at least.

Anyways..... it has been difficult to find time in my schedule to actually go and work out. I work 40 hours a week and most evenings I'm not home till it's dark outside. I no longer have a gym pass, thank goodness... I finally got my soul out of the evil grasp of Golds Gym! ( I mean seriously! I'm sure Golds would take my first born if I had one). So being the big grown up I am, I've decided it's time to make time to tone up and I knew exactly what to do. Jillian!!!!

She always kicks my hiney! Since I refuse to run in the dark, she is my best friend on the nights I get home late. Trust me, her work out will make you sweat and burn. 30 minutes each evening and if zombies show up on my door step in 4 weeks, I will be ready!! Plus zombies or no zombies, I will still look great and toned, can't complain about that. Bring it on 2012!

(This is Brandon, and I approve this message.)

Lately...

2011-12-06T21:54:00.000-07:00

Lately Pandora has been keeping me sane on my drive to work. I will sometimes listen to NPR or local radio stations, but there is a limit to how many lipo clinic/ hair growth/ hair removal/ online dating/ crap commercials I can handle on my commute. So Pandora saves me from all that gibberish most days. The other night Brandon and I put up our beautiful Christmas tree and while we were decorating we put on some Christmas music: Sufjan Stevens (Holiday)

Sufjan didn't disappoint as usual, but I did discover something even better! She & Him Christmas is keeping my Christmas cheer on full this December.

So now you know what we are listening in our home. Happy December!

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-12-06T21:39:00.001-07:00

This year we want to express gratitude for our amazing family and friends! Thank you for all you do! We love you!

July 16th

2011-09-29T17:20:00.001-06:00

This may be a tad late, but here it is! Brandon and I got married on July 16th and it was the most perfect day! We are so blessed with such amazing family and friends! We had so much fun! We ate delicious food, we laughed so much, and we danced the night away! We want to thank everyone who came and celebrated with us! It was a party!

I truly married the most perfect guy for me. He knows how to make me laugh and cheer me up when I'm having a rough day. He is an amazing cook! Incredible baker! He completes me and I am so blessed to have him by my side for the rest of eternity! I love you B!

Day in Midway

2011-09-24T20:20:00.002-06:00

A day at work today in Park City, Brandon got some work done (4 fillings)...

On the way home we spent some time in beautiful Midway.  The colors are changing and red's/oranges are popping out.

Icicles are already making their way onto the Park City scene.

The Funicular at Deer Valley, this thing is rad.  Definitely worth checking out. It seems like an attraction you'd pay for, but you don't.  It's really just a extravagant elevator.

Fanny's Grill at the Homestead, near the crater.

Labor Day With The Fam

2011-09-05T22:58:00.000-06:00

This is how Stringham family camps.

Legless........ We Can Fix That!

2011-09-05T22:57:00.000-06:00

So B and I got these sweet chairs from the Marriott (Thanks Cynthia). Yes, we don't have any furniture and we are taking what we can get from local hotels.  Best part we get to improve our handy skills in the process. These lovelies came without legs. Add one more completed project to the Home Improvement list!

We made a little Home Depot trip and got these plain things. Boring.
 
We removed the previous hardware. Set new screws. 

Stained the legs, along with our hands.

Added two coats of Semi-gloss and then set them in place.
 
Violà! We now have two new beauties in our house. Come visit any time!

Book Worm

2011-07-10T00:03:00.007-06:00

I'm not quite the book worm, but I am working on it. I become one little more each summer. Lately I've been busy planning a wedding (which is in 6 days!!!!!), but when I have few minutes of free time I've been enjoying a good read! This one has been captivating me with every page! I can't put it down and on few occasions I've lost track of time and didn't put it down till 3 am. My boss reads so many books and she thought that I would really enjoy this one. I was little hesitant to read it at first. I knew the book was a true story from world war 2 and I was little scared because I thought it would be old/ boring. I was SO WRONG!! I am loving this! The author has written this story so well! With each page I want to know more and more. So if you have a fear about war books, read this one. You will like it! I have a long list of books for this summer. I'm hoping to read all of them before winder comes. I'll let you know how that goes! Well I'm off to read a little more!

I could hold you forever

2011-05-10T19:07:00.004-06:00

I can't wait to hold this handsome guy again! Less than 2 weeks and he will be home from his long 30 day tour. I love you my skinny love!

I Found You!!!!

2011-04-18T22:50:00.000-06:00

YES!!! I don't think I can be any happier right now! In Russia I used to always drink Kefir. It is so yummy, well if you grew up drinking it every day. I think it's because of Kefir that I don't like milk that much. As a kid I would always choose Kefir over milk. I loved that stuff. Well it's been over 11 years since I've had it. That is a long time!
So on Saturday, Brandon and I wondered into Sunflower Market. We were getting some fresh produce and we happen to walk by the dairy isle. I was reading names of yogurts and came across a whole section of Kefir. My mind didn't quiet catch the name as first. I kept walking and then it finally clicked!!! KEFIR!!! Are you serious!!!! I ran back to the isle and I was so happy it was ridiculous! I got a bottle of raspberry flavored one. I was in heaven! I'm still giddy about it! I'm so amazed at how one sip of that stuff flooded my mind with little memories. Not only that but this drink is so good for your body. It has bunch on probiotics and all this other great stuff. Go ahead and try it! Don't get the plain kind, it takes getting used to. I love it plain and I also loved the flavored kinds as well. Brandon had some and he liked it, but I don't think I'll be seeing him drinking it by a cup full anytime soon.

I'm truly a happy kid right now.

Hello Mister

2011-04-15T00:17:00.003-06:00

Brandon and I had so much fun today. I had the day off work! That is always a sweet thing! We had lots of errands to run, a long to-do list to complete. We spent the whole day with each other running around town getting wedding things done. Brandon will be traveling with Young Ambassadors for 30 days, so we have a lot of things on our list that need to be done before he leaves. One of the highlights of today was taking our engagement pictures! It was so fun! Brandon and I couldn't stop laughing. Our photographer was awesome! We got to see few pictures he took and I can't wait to see the rest! Also our incredibly talented friend Drew designed our wedding invitations and they are out of this world awesome! I get to address those babies while Brandon is gone, it will be good to keep me busy while he is gone. 92 more days!!!!

We were looking at cake toppers and came across these little guys. They are kind of cute.

You're The One I Love

2011-02-14T22:52:00.002-07:00

Here's to you Brandon, my sweet Valentine!

You are perfect and I love you!

Home Is Whenever I'm With You.

2011-02-09T22:27:00.013-07:00

In January, Brandon and I went to California to see my friend Liana get married. Liana and I have been friends for 12+ years, she is one of my Russian friends. She got married on Friday, so Brandon and I spent the day in Fullerton. We had so much fun at her and Sam's wedding. We danced the night away, witnessed Liana smash cake into Sam's face, and we laughed a lot! Thank you guys for inviting us to share your special day with you!
Friday night, after the wedding we went to Randy and Alyssa's home. They are so sweet and let us sleep in their cute apartment. We were treated like royalty! Randy made us yummy breakfast on Saturday morning, after which we headed to LA walk of fame.

Brandon and I ran into our buddy Sam. No big deal.
Randy and Alyssa got lots of pictures of our trip! Thank you guys!
Chuck Norris, don't mess!
After wondering around LA, we all went to Santa Monica Pier. We all decided to go an a ferris wheel ride. I love that ferris wheel! Brandon and I went on it when we first began to date and it has become one of our special places. We all got into our little chairs and while we were on the very top, the wheel made three stops, on the very top stop Brandon asked me to marry him!!!!! I cried! We all laughed because Brandon totally surprised me! Randy and Alyssa got all of it on pictures and video! I'm so thrilled to marry by best friend! Brandon is truly the best man for me! Im SO lucky to have him in my life and I can't wait to share the rest of forever with him!
Pure bliss, right after we got off the ferris wheel.
We went on a walk on the beach.
And here is my new little pretty! I love it! I'm thrilled! This new adventure is going to be awesome!

See ya 2010!

2011-01-01T10:42:00.000-07:00

My dear friend, 2010,
You were better than 2009! You were full of surprises, birthdays, cherished old friends and dear new ones. You kept me on my toes that is for sure. I've never worked harder, loved so fully, taken so many leaps of faith, and welcomed everything good into my life. My heart if full of gratitude for the wonderful year you were. Just like I said with year 2009: "I am a better person!". This year my family grew closer, said goodbye for two years to my baby brother Stephen, got a new nephew in march, went on amazing road trips with even more amazing friends, moved out to Provo, cooked more, baked more, laughed so hard with friends that tears ran down my face, learned to forgive, welcomed new friends into my life, had more dinners with my friends (every single week!!!), attended weddings and baby showers, fell even more in love with my niece, grew even stronger in the gospel, held patients hands, helped out a stranger, spend time with my Russian friends, Mona rope swing, got another nephew in December, spent Christmas away from my family and spent it with my best friend and his family, the list goes on. 2010 you were fun! I've never been happier! I love where my life is, I wouldn't change a thing. I am so grateful for my family, who are always there to love and laugh with me. I'm grateful for my friends who are always near. I'm grateful for the love I have in my life. I'm grateful for the gospel in my life, the true miracles and blessings it brings into my life. I am grateful for my Savior Jesus Christ and all that he has done for me. I am truly blessed and I am grateful for that! Year 2011, I know you will be an amazing year! Bring it on!*This was taken a year ago Christmas. I love this picture of my family!

Look to the Light

2010-12-16T19:20:00.002-07:00

"That’s when I really started seeking Christ, because I knew He was real. I had done everything in the world that man had to offer, and none of it was real.”

Music and Beauty

2010-12-15T00:30:00.002-07:00

I love music and sometimes I come across something that is so moving and beautiful. I really like the Weepies and Ryan Woodward created this beauty. I can't stop watching it, so I thought I'd share it with everyone. Enjoy.

Thought of You from Ryan J Woodward on Vimeo.

Give Thanks

2010-12-05T23:09:00.001-07:00

I love Thanksgiving! It's the holiday that makes me realize how much I have to be grateful for. I have incredible roommates! They are so fun and they always make me laugh to the point where all 3 of us cry uncontrollably. We have a lot of fun together. We all love going to The Chocolate, a desert cafe. I'm grateful for the incredible hazelnut hot chocolate they make.
I'm grateful that my roommates will order mint and spice hot chocolate so we could all share.
The Cazookie! Best desert ever. I'm grateful for the first bite....
.....and the last!
I'm grateful for these people! Ryan is the greatest! He is funny and so kind! He has a sweet heart and he always makes sure everyone is happy. Jaclyn! I don't know where to begin! She is my roomie! She is my buddy who stays up late and listens to me while I rant about everything and anything. She sits by me at church, makes Jones soda run with me. She is beautiful, kind, sweet, compassionate, and just all around amazing. I'm so grateful for her in my life and I'm so grateful she has become one of my closest friends. Brandon- I love him with all my heart and I'm so grateful for him. He is always there to pick me up and cheer me up. He is always taking care of me, helping me, laughing with me, and so much more. He is my best friend! I'm so grateful I met him, I'm so grateful he picked me up, dusted me off and showed me how good life is. I'm grateful for the blessing he is in my life!
I'm grateful for Noodles & Co. and their yummy pesto pasta!
I"m grateful for Christmas and my Savior Jesus Christ.
I'm grateful for being able to spend time with those I love.
I"m grateful for my friends and how purely goofy they are!
I'm grateful for delicious food!
I give thanks for all and many blessings in my life! I am truly blessed! I am blessed with trials that make me rely on my Savior, my family and my friends! I'm grateful for a new look on life and its beauty. I am grateful for my testimony and the truth of the gospel. I am grateful for always knowing that no matter what happens in my life things will always turn out ok and even better than before! I'm grateful for this life I have been given and everything it comes with. I am grateful!

November Dish

2010-12-05T23:01:00.002-07:00

Alright, I"m little late but here is my November dish. Jaclyn and I went to Costco and say pita bread. I love pita bread. When I was little I would always get gyros form street stands. They were so delicious. I decided to get the pita bread and make homemade gyros. Jaclyn helped me and we made all the cucumber yogurt sauce, which was incredibly good. Instead of lamb, which is usually used when making gyros, we used chicken. Everything was spiced just perfect and after the sauce was marinated for 24 hours, we finally got to enjoy the dish. Friends came over and after lots of laughter and chit-chat, the food was gone, out tunnies were full, and the night was perfect. I love my friends who are always up for letting me experiment with food and have them be my guinea pigs. So far reviews are been great, so I will keep making food. I think I'll skip December. I will let you know.

Russian Food

2010-10-23T19:19:00.005-06:00

I'm giving up on catching up, it is taking me way too much time. On my 25th birthday, which I celebrated in September, I've decided to make my resolution list (like the one people usually make on New Years Eve). One of the goals I put on my list is to make more Russian food, actually it is more like re-learn how to make Russian food. So far I am making a great progress, one dish each month. I present to you my little creations:

- October: Black Bread. I great up eating this bread pretty much with every meal. I smelled and tasted so good. I will change few things next time. This bread is good but I'm not sure when I will make it next time. It has 17 ingredients in it!!!! It was easy to make but it tool a long time. It was worth it!
- September: Stuffed Cabbage. This was SO tasty! I doubled the recipe and it cost me $13 (and some cents). I fed 12 people and had left overs! This dish is something my grandmother used to make and it is so filling! The stuffing includes lots of veggies, rice, and ground beef. I will be making this again soon.
Stay tuned to see what November brings.

So.....

2010-09-13T21:53:00.003-06:00

..... there is a possibility that I've been having way to much fun to keep up with my blog. Its true. Fall is almost here and I am slowly catching up!

May

2010-09-13T21:15:00.011-06:00

1. Natalie and Andrew got married and I got to attend their sealing! Love these two! 2. Brandon and I discovered the best shaved ice known to men! It was the best! Thanks Sarah for telling us about it.
3. Celebrated my beautiful mom's birthday and Mothers day! Got to talk to Sam
... and Stephen. I absolutely love my little brothers! They are incredible!

4. Alyssa and Randy got married! Brandon and I were able to attend their sealing. Brandon was the best man!

5. This handsome guy turned 24!!! I love him with all my heart!
Just few little notes as to why Brandon is pretty much the coolest:
- He has the best dance moves.
- If my Mac ever gives me any trouble, he can fix it right away and knows how to.
- He is super active and we have lots of fun hiking, swimming, going on bike rides, and lots more.
- No one has ever been able to make me laugh as much and as hard as him.
- He is sweet and kind!
He is my best friend! Happy Birthday mister!

~April~

2010-09-13T21:05:00.003-06:00

1. Lots of work, massive conversion/ merger at work. Busy, busy, busy
2. Went bowling with my work, and it was awesome!3. I met mister B a year ago. We celebrated and went out to yummy dinner.
4. Put braces on my teeth, I know I looked like I was 14 again. It was worth it. Plus it was only for two months.
5. Moved out of my parents home and moved to Provo.

Cross That Off My List

2010-03-29T22:38:00.009-06:00

On Saturday I got to cross something off my Bucket List! I finally attended Holi Festival of Colours. It is an Indian celebration of Spring and other interesting little things. We got together with friends, dressed in white t shirts (Brandon and I made a little stop at DI) and headed out to the festival. There were so many people there! Seriously! It was so much fun. Lots of music and people, and the best part colored chalk! We got there just in time before they started to toss the chalk and we got our nice white shirts and clean faces smothered with all sorts of colors! People toss the powdered chalk in the air and at people, it gets everywhere! I had to cover my nose in order to breath. Once the colored dust settled this is what was left:
Everyone was covered in color!
Being silly! I washed my hair 4 times after that to get all that chalk out, it was so worth the fun!
Jaclyn and Brad! Love them!
Monkeying around before going home.
I was having so much fun I didn't want to go home, so Brandon carried me away.

Jackson Paul

2010-03-28T11:33:00.006-06:00

This little family of 3 just got a tiny bit bigger!
Handsome baby Jackson Paul Stringham finally decided to arrive on March 19th. He is so cute and I am head over hills in love with him!
I can't get enough of this cuttie! Congrats Jack and Melissa!

Road Trip!

2010-03-20T11:09:00.000-06:00

Brandon and I decided to go on a road trip to Idaho to see our friend get married! We packed the car and headed out with a car full of good friends. I've never actually been to Idaho but I've driven through it. When we got there I was so disoriented and I missed my trusty Utah mountains, I couldn't tell where east or west was. Thank goodness Randy our awesome driver had a GPS, it got us safely to out hotel. We packed close to 10 people in out tiny hotel room and it was so fun! There were people everywhere! I couldn't step on the floor without accidentally stepping on someones arm or leg. We attended wedding dinner on friday and a beautiful sealing ceremony on saturday morning. I forgot my camera so I didn't catch any pictures of the beautiful bride and groom. As most of you know, Idaho is pretty flat right? Well we were driving in Twin Falls and all of the sudden there was this huge gorge! So we all decided to go and check it out and kill some time before the reception.Brandon and I grabbed our blanket and went and sat on the dock. I enjoyed my Vanilla Coke. I haven't had one in forever and it was delicious.
Brandon dared me to dip my toes in the water, I did and the water was freezing!
Thanks for a fun road trip!

My dad!

2010-03-15T11:04:00.000-06:00

Today my dad celebrated his birthday! I seriously have the best dad on earth! He is the most kind and understanding individual I know. I love you dad! Thanks for all the support, long talks about life, boys, work, and little things that matter! Thanks for all the fun trips, for teaching me how to ski and enjoy water sports! You are the best!

My Sweet Grandmother

2010-02-28T16:42:00.003-07:00

My sweet grandmother passed away earlier this week. I"m so grateful that she was my grandmother. She always had the kindest and sweetest words of encouragement, she always gave the best compliments! She was a great example to me and how blessed I am to have her beautiful influence in my life. I know that I will miss her and so will everyone else that knew her. I'm so happy to have the eternal knowledge and know that she is happy and healthy with our Heavenly Father. I know I will see her again and I bet she is planting beautiful flowers in heaven!

MARIAN LOIS STRINGHAM

Marian Lois Smith Stringham 5/14/1925 ~ 2/25/2010 Marian Lois Smith Stringham peacefully passed from this life on February 25, 2010, surrounded by her loving family. She was born May 14, 1925 in Ogden, Utah to Edwin E. and Lois D. Smith. She graduated from Ogden High school and the University of Utah in Business and Music and was a member of Chi Omega. She was married in the Salt Lake Temple to her sweetheart, Jack Dunyon Stringham M.D., in 1949. Having been together for 61 years, their love for each other was always present and felt by us all. They were an example of true love, devotion and unselfishness. Her life was centered on her family whom she cherished dearly, always putting her family first in encouraging, supporting and promoting her children's and grandchildren's talents and desires. From her early childhood, music was very important to Marian. She continued to develop her musical talents throughout her life. She was a member of the Utah Symphony until moving with her husband to San Diego and Seattle while he served in the Navy. Later, she played her violin with the Salt Lake Symphony for over 25 years. Marian was known for her beautiful flower gardens. Each summer she and Jack carefully and meticulously planted flowers, creating a haven of beauty for gatherings of family and friends. She loved family traditions, Sunday dinners and get-togethers, especially those shared at Bear Lake, Lake Powell, Jackson, Wyoming and Aspen, Colorado. She was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day-Saints and served in many capacities, her favorite being serving in the Primary with the young children and as a hostess at the Church Office Building. She brought the spirit into many meetings with her lovely violin music and also found joy in sharing her talents creating floral arrangements each week for Sacrament and Relief Society meetings and for many special events both church and civic. Later, Marian found great happiness as she and her husband served in the California, San Diego, Mission. Marian loved people and throughout the years enjoyed association with many wonderful friends who were very dear to her. Marian radiated beauty, grace and refinement and brought joy into the lives of everyone she knew. Though she had many challenges in life, she met them with strength, dignity and a positive attitude, always focusing on the needs of others. She is survived by her devoted and loving husband Jack, and four of their five children, John E. (Jan), Anne (David Jerman), Paul B. (Kim), and Susie (Kent Compton), her brother Ray (Colleen) Smith, 20 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren with #27 on the way. She was preceded in death by her parents and son Stephen. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, March 2, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at the Monument Park 17th Ward building, 2795 Crestview Drive in Salt Lake City, Family and friends may call Monday, March 1st, 6-8 p.m. at Larkin Sunset Lawn, 2350 E. 1300 South, and at the church Tuesday, 10:00-10:45 a.m. preceding the funeral service. Interment, Salt Lake City Cemetery, 200 North "N" Street.

My New Favorites

2010-02-22T19:47:00.004-07:00

You guys! I've found some new favorites these last few months! First of all I've always wanted to go to a roller derby, so when this movie came out I had to see it. Plus I think Ellen Page is pretty talented. "Whip It" is now on my list of favorite movies! I laughed a lot and they got a great cast! If you are bored one night, rent it!I've also been reading more and last month I finished "Dear John". It was really cute and sappy (what else would you expect from the guy who wrote the "Notebook"?!), but I liked it. Now I have a dilemma: so see the movie or not to see the movie. I think I might wait till red box!
Feel free to share your favorite movies/ books if you'd like. Maybe I'll check them out and let you know what I think.

Happy Birthday Jack!

2010-02-20T11:01:00.003-07:00

Happy birthday Jack! Thanks for being the greatest older brother! Love you!

Hawaiian Christmas

2010-02-11T22:00:00.021-07:00

Ok, so I might be just a little bit behind on blogging. It's okay! I've got lots of pictures!
My parents decided it was time for all of us to spend some time together, what a better way to do that then take us to a small island! Being the awesome parents they are, they took all of us (minus San who is on a mission) to Kauai. It was so much fun to be with everyone! I loved being with family and especially cute little baby Hannah! She gets cutter every second! Here are few pictures form the trip.
We went of few drives through the island and found a beautiful beach and a cave!
Messing around in the cave!
We went on some amazing hikes! Our house was located in the little bay behind us.
Our family Christmas/ New Years card!
Hannah is so cute!
Hiked up to a waterfall and a rope swing! I jumped off both! It was awesome!
We also went to few farmers market and my dad found me a Tarzan and his brother. I had to leave them on the island!
We even had a little fire on the beach at night! It was so good to be with my family! They are incredible!
Stephen showed all of us how surfing is done!
I went on a scooter ride around the island with my dad and brothers!
We went swimming on this beach! It was so beautiful! My dad took this picture! He is an awesome photographer!
Cute Sarah and I.
Trying a new fruit at farmers market. I was a little scared, but it turned out to be pretty yummy!
They had avocados bigger than my foot! Oh they were so tasty!
Sarah and I tried a coconut! It was good.
Chocolate covered bananas! So good! I've never eaten so much delicious and fresh food!
Stephen didn't want to leave, so he hid from us in the bushes.
Thank you family for an awesome trip! It was so good to be with all of you!

Dear 2009

2010-01-26T19:18:00.003-07:00

Dear 2009,
We got off to a bad start. Thanks to my awesome family and friends, I decided not to give up on you. I'm grateful that I got to know you better, more than anything I got to know myself better.
I've learned a lot in 2009, I've grown as a person, my faith is stronger than ever, I'm a better person, and I know that no matter what I can always forgive, love and trust.
Year 2009 was full of freedom and I feel like a new woman coming out of it! There were friends lost, but many more made and true and genuine friendships were born. There were road trips full of laughter and unforgettable moments. There were bonfires on beaches, wrong turns on road trips, art gallery strolls, and so much great music! Late night drives to get breakfast, rolling down hills, making incredible dinners, having tea parties, and weddings! Lots of weddings! I am so grateful to be in the temple and witness my good friends get married. What an incredible reminder that there is someone so much greater than us, someone who know us and loves us. Our Heavenly Father is always there and I'm so grateful to have the chance to get closer to him this past year. I'm grateful for everything that has happened this year! If I could I'd do it again because I KNOW that with the Savior by my side I can do anything! I've been blessed this year! I've never been happier in my life. I have incredible family, incredible friends, and I feel their love daily. Thank you year 2009 for making me a better individual! 2010 I can't wait to find out what you will bring!
Sincerely, Marianna

I Can't Stop Laughing

2009-12-26T00:01:00.003-07:00

I'm giggling under my breath as I'm typing. You'll see why in a moment. First of all I hope everyone of you had a Merry Christmas. I got to spend it with my family in Hawaii. It's been a beautiful day filled with fun adventures. I will post pictures when I get home. Speaking of going home, I really don't want to leave. The thought of getting off the plain into a freezing Utah weather makes me really sad, but thanks to my awesome guy and his siblings I have something to look forward to. I will see these happy faces and they will make me laugh without a doubt! This is what I received in my inbox today and I'm still giggling because I think they are hilarious!!! Enjoy!

Stephen

2009-12-10T00:54:00.006-07:00

My youngest brother Stephen
got his mission call today! We all gathered together and watched him open the big white envelope. Everyone wrote down their guesses. Some thought he was going to Cambodia, because he spent this last summer volunteering there. As you can see he makes a pretty ghetto looking Cambodian gangster:
Some thought he might serve in Texas (Stephen can grow some sweet redneck sideburns):
Some guessed Norway, because he kinds of looks like the Norwegian troll:
Once everyone made their little jokes about how funny it would be if Stephen was getting called to Narnia or the Shire (as in Lord of the Rings shire), the big moment finally came! Stephen is called to serve in Long Beach, California, Spanish speaking mission. I'm so excited for him! Our oldest brother Jack served in the same mission and spoke Cambodian. Long beach is in for a treat!!

Another Happy Tuesday

2009-12-08T22:12:00.002-07:00

Yep, I got one! Can't wait to wear it!

I'm grateful...

2009-11-25T20:58:00.001-07:00

..for people who make me laugh! This is too funny!

Happy Tuesday

2009-11-24T20:35:00.001-07:00

23 more days and I'll be in Kauai! I can't wait to go hiking and see some beautiful waterfalls.

Looking Back

2009-11-24T19:54:00.008-07:00

The other day I came across a small box filled with my baby and growing up pictures. They are old school and I love them because of their character. The pictures were taken in Russia as I was growing up and they are thick. They are printed on thick picture paper and they are thick with memories. Some have old coffee stains, some are missing corners, some are faded, and some have few things written on the back of them. My grandmothers handwriting is beautiful and I miss it. Looking at these pictures fills my heart with gratitude. This one is one of my favorites!(my brother Pavel and I)
I remember this old lawn chair and picking lilacs for my grandmother. I am so grateful for my great life. I'm grateful for the bad and I'm even more grateful for the good. I'm blessed to have amazing family, here and Russia. Both have taught me so much! Thank you for inspiring me to be the individual that I am becoming.

Happy Tuesday!

2009-11-17T11:14:00.002-07:00

I can't wait for this little thing to arrive! It's an instant camera and I'm so excited!!!
Happy Tuesday Side Note: In a month I'll be on a warm beach in Hawaii! Oh goodness! I can't wait!

Melt My Heart- David Gray

2009-11-14T21:25:00.010-07:00

At the beginning of the month Brandon and I went to the David Gray concert! We ran into my buddies Mike and Kim, Jeph and Venita. It was a fantastic evening and music was outstanding! I love David Gray and his music, so good.
The opening band was Lisa Hannigan and she was amazing! I've never heard of her before this night and man she was good! She played this mini organ and it sounded really good. (the organ is to the right of her in the picture, it was rad!)
David Gray didn't disappoint either. Man he is good. Here are some pictures from his show.

Thanks for an awesome night!

BOO! Happy Halloween!

2009-11-14T20:56:00.011-07:00

My friends and I got together before halloween and carved pumpkins. As you can see the results are pretty awesome!
My mummy pumpkin!
Brandon free-handed the trumpet pumpkin. I think it looks really good! He has a talent!
Jay and Chels came up with their own design. Later Chels shared her inspiration: the New Moon. Go Team Jacob!
JacJac and her date carved this one! They did an awesome job!
Jay and Brandon being goofs! Love these boys!
Brandon and I showing off our pumpkins. They look good and so do we!
Cute Jaclyn and her date (I can't remember his name, I feel bad). They are too cute!

Weddings!

2009-11-06T14:51:00.009-07:00

I love wedding! I mean which girl doesn't, right?! Two of my close friends got married and I had the change to attend the sealing and remember how awesome the Temple is.
Jordan got married at the end of September and she looked stunning! She has a vintage dress and she looked amazing in it! Congrats Jordan and Brant!

Great friends since Junior High: Me, Jordi, and Kiley
Jordan had a beautiful reception at the historical library in Provo. Their photographer did an awesome job with their pictures.
My friend Gris got married in October. Kevin and Gris had a luncheon and the reception at Joseph Smith building. Congrats you two! I love you both!
Kevin is a funny guy, this pictures shows it perfectly!

I love my friends and I'm so blessed to have been a part of their weddings! Thank you guys and Congrats!

Brandi Carlile

2009-11-06T14:35:00.007-07:00

Way back in September I had the chance to go and see Brandi Carlile. She is one amazing singer. I absolutely love her voice. Brandon, JJ, JK and I met up at the Depot and danced the night away! I've never been to this venue before and would strongly recommend it to anyone who wants to get close to the band and have great sound. Here are some pictures from the night:
Brandi and one of the twins (her guitar players are twins):
I though this one was cool looking:
Rocking out with the other twin:
Thanks for an awesome concert!

24!

2009-10-02T23:52:00.011-06:00

I know two blogs in a row! Go me! September came and so did my birthday! I turned 24 and boy was it a fun day! My friend Kiley and I have been talking about doing a movie in my back yard for few month, but something was always happening so we never set a night. Finally we decided to do it the weekend before Labor day. We got a projector from my awesome buddies Mike and Kim! Got lots of yummy food, I got put in charge of bbq'-ing. I must admit I'm pretty darn good at it! Brandon brought sound equipment so we had some great music playing while we were enjoying our hamburgers and hot dogs. Jesse happened to be in town and he came and took a lot of fun pictures.
We had a little too much fun on the tramp:

My cute dog Whistler.
Before we all got settled to watch a movie under stars my awesome friends surprised me with a birthday cake!I loved it! I felt like a little kid! Thank you guys! It was fantastic!
Making a wish.
Thanks everyone for making my birthday extra fun! I love you all!

Where Did The Summer Go?!

2009-10-02T23:06:00.013-06:00

Alright people, I know I'm a total slacker! I've been tempted to delete the blog because I'm too busy having fun and partially too lazy to update it. Crazy thinking! Here is my attempt to catch you guys up on what has been happening in my life. Be ready this is a long one!
In August there were few wedding to attend, one of them was Chris and Brit's wedding! They are some of the sweetest people I've met! Their wedding was beautiful and so fun!
I've discovered the best park to spend my lunch hour. I've had few pic-nics there too. This tree is by far my favorite! It's so beautiful!
I've spent a lot of time listening to some of the best jam cessions in Provo! Meet Coco! In this picture he has some sweet dreads going, they got shaved off the very next day.
Brandon doing his thing on the trumpet!
My family also ventured to another Jackson trip! This is the best place on earth, I love it! It's like a mini heaven on earth! My beautiful sister Sarah and sweetest little niece Hannah. Love them both!
A lot of fun things happened on this trip. One of them was Thom water skiing with a moose. If you look closer you will see a moose! He was swimming to an island and we just happened to be boating by it. I was really funny, the moose was ok and made it just fine to his island.
Brandon showed us his slalom skills! Seriously look at this place! It's gorgeous.
There were few stormy days.
I was sad to leave but there is always next year!
My friends and I attended few fun concerts at the Gallivan. JJ's friends Tanya came with us. She is a russian girl and we had so much fun chatting in russian! I miss it.
Went up to snowbird with my family. Brandon and I went hiking.
For 4th of July we went to Colorado and I saw the best fireworks! We were seriously right under them. It was a blast!
I'm sad summer is already gone! It went by way too fast, but I guess that is what happens when you are having fun! Thanks everyone!

California - Catching up!

2009-08-16T16:36:00.014-06:00

I'm so behind on this summer. In June Brandon, JJ, Hillary, and I went on a road trip to Cali. We drove to pick up Hillary at the aunts place that is close to Zions park. We drove by a little Inn that is names: Marianna Inn. I've never in my had that chance to see anything with my name on it. The little tourist stores never have a key chain or a cup with my name in it, so my friends have a joke going on that if they ever come across something with my name on it they have to buy it. I guess I'll have to let them off this one. We spent a lot of time on the beach. I learned how to surf and we played a lot of beach volleyball.
JJ and Brandon kept jumping around and got a fun idea to see how high they could jump. I think this is a funny picture. Brandon jumped over JJ and no one though he could do it. He was so high!
The longboards we used to learn how to surf. Thanks to our awesome friends in Cali that taught us how and let us use their boards.
Leaving the beach to go to a friends wedding!
We also made a stop at Sprinkles Cupcakes. They were delish!
One thing that I really wanted to do while we were in Cali is to go to Santa Monica Pier. It was my favorite!
We all rode the Ferris Wheel and watched the sunset.

Our last day in Cali we went to the fabric district in LA. I've never seen so much fabric in my life. every store was draped in fabric. We loved it!
It was such a fun trip! Thanks Brandon, JJ and Hillary for making it so much fun!

Way Back In June

2009-08-15T10:03:00.000-06:00

Way back in June we celebrated Brandon's and Jaclyn's birthdays! We threw a party in back yard and had lots of fun people come join us. It was a really chill night and it was great to hang out and listen to good music. We played with sparklers.We hung lights in the back yard they looked really cool. I especially like the skateboard ramp in the back of the yard.
Brandon got his trumpet out and played some Jazz.
Its a tradition to sing a really loud spanish song to the birthday person. Jaclyn got sung to and then Brandon and Josh broke out JT's song and people couldn't stop laughing because they were being silly.
Happy birthday Brandon and Jaclyn! You guys are my favorite!

I REALLY miss this boy....

2009-07-26T00:14:00.004-06:00

Its true! I miss my little brother Stephen! He is volunteering in Cambodia and will be back in October, hopefully. Summer is little boring without him. I miss my little partner in crime!

Oh wait! Its Friday!

2009-07-17T01:41:00.003-06:00

Yes it's 1:43 am and its friday! Why am I awake, you ask? Well it's simple really. It all began about a month ago, my laptop decided it had enough and is now throwing a tantrum. I can't get anything to work: pictures wont show up, music wont play, and for the past hour I've been trying to figure out the cure for my trusty lappy.
On the bright side:
-Its friday and I get to sleep in and go to Lagoon!!! It's what fun is!!
-I have a ton of pictures on my camera that are waiting to be seen. (gotta fix lappy and I'll show them off)

P.S. I have lots to blog about! You will just have to wait a little bit!
** here's a little snapshot from my Cali trip, more to come soon **

I return....and I have pictures!

2009-06-01T00:14:00.008-06:00

Ok, ok, I've been slacking! Apparently I have 5 people who follow this blog and I should probably keep them happy. So here, I am back! Oh and did I mention I have pictures!?! Well here you go my lovely readers! I've been up to some fun things! This summer has been full of adventures and really good road trips. Here are pictures form my Colorado trip way back in May. Brandon, Jeff and I made our way to Colorado so see their families. I've never been so it was great to go on a road trip with my friends! Brandon and I went on a drive and saw the most beautiful sun rays peeking through rainy clouds. Enjoy the pictures!
Brandon and I
Me wondering in a field.
Brandon and the cute red barn.
Pretty sun rays after the rain storm.
We went to Tocabe a Native American cafe and had really delicious food.
Downtown Denver. Really cool place!

Stay tuned for pictures form various celebrations and California road trip!

Do You Ever Feel Like....

2009-05-27T19:31:00.003-06:00

Do you ever feel like everybody around you is nuts?
The bag of my pistachios (which were so delicious) pointed out to me. It must be true.... its on the bag!

Happy Week

2009-04-27T00:19:00.004-06:00

This week made me happy. Here are few things why:

* clean car, no more dirt form the snow storm adventures
* laughing so hard my face hurts
* random road trips to Provo to see bands, friends, and more bands
* meeting lead singers and laughing at great silly things
* the Soloist
* listening to friends play the piano, guitar, sing to me.
* finally feeling completely free and no longer being numb.
* getting rid of a whole lot of useless pictures
* talking till morning hours
* sleeping in

Life is so good!

This Week Rocked My Beat!!!!

2009-04-11T17:52:00.011-06:00

This week has been the best! My family left to Canada (Whistler) to ski and I decided to make this a great week. It all began on Monday.
Monday:
*Learned how to play human foosball, very fun! Especially with a lot of people.
*Discovered a new yogurt place that Liz and I can go to without going broke!

Tuesday:
*Celebrated friend's birthday and listened to little jazz band. Brandon plays in it and they sounded great!
Brandon on the trumpet.
I would truly love to own one of these great chandeliers.
Brandon, Me, and Jeffi (birthday boy). We started the Awkward Hugger Mugger club. We think we are funny!
Me, JJ and Jeffi trying to pull the ugly french face. So hideous but oh so funny.

Wednesday:
*Went out with some girls and got pedicures. We're just getting ready for summer to get here.
Thursday:
My friend Grise got engaged!!!! Congrats! In order to celebrate we went out to lunch and we brought Kevin (her fiance) with us.
Cute couple!
Just showing off our stylin' scrubs!
*I also went to the Ting Tings concert!
They are such a fun band to watch live! The entire crowd was dancing and jumping. Thank you Tyler for letting me know they were in town and for keeping me company.
After the concert we went out and got some sushi. This night was so much fun!

Friday:
*Had the day off, so I slept in!!
*Saw Monsters vs. Aliens in 3D, LOVED it!!
*Went to few parties in Provo with friends.

Saturday:
*Went to Park City to ski! It was so much fun! Thanks Brandon for the free pass.
This week has been busy and full of fun things. My face hurts from laughing and smiling! I'm so high on life!! It's truly amazing and I love the people that share it with me! Thanks for the great time this week!

2009-04-02T00:07:00.010-06:00

I'm sure glad today is over. Tomorrow is a new day and a beginning of a new journey, I'm looking forward to that. I was looking through some of my pictures and many of them made me smile. Here are few of my favorites, enjoy!

*This picture was taken in Hawaii at night time (duh!). My brothers and I walked out little further into the water and we didn't see the huge waives coming. It was so much fun!*I love sunsets. There is something very peaceful about them. What a great way to say goodbye to a day.
*Halloween with Keiko is always too much fun. This night was epic!
*New York. I love that city! Jack and I look like total nerds in this picture and it cracks me up every time I see it.
*Jackson Lake is my heaven on earth. I love this place! It has the best sunsets next to Hawaii.
*Jackson Lake, Sarah and I messing around in the water.
*North Carolina. Thom and I are both sunned out. The thing that makes me laugh is my bendy arm. Most of my friends tease me about my gross bendy arm and I usually ignore them, but this picture kind of grosses me out (and makes me laugh).

Once

2009-03-30T21:47:00.004-06:00

I've never seen this movie, but the soundtrack melts my heart. I love this one. No one should miss out on this goodness.

I Need Help

2009-03-30T17:50:00.003-06:00

I never make resolutions at the beginning of the year, I usually wait till few months after. This month I've decided that I'm going to get back into reading this year. I used to love reading and college ruined that. Now that I have some free time I began to read little books here and there. I need help! If you have a book you like/love and want to share let me know. I promise I'll read it at some point and let you know what I think about it. So go ahead and recommend with a comment. Thanks!

Good Day!

2009-03-25T18:16:00.009-06:00

I feel great today! Even the depressing weather can't put me down. I took my dog on a hike in the canyon yesterday. It was beautiful! The snow was everywhere and so high that most of the signs you see in the summer were completely covered up. Whistler had a blast!So did I. There is something really peaceful and nice about walking around in the canyon listening to good tunes.

Whistler kept diving into the snow it made me laugh every time she did it.
I find that there are so many things in life to be happy about and I love it! I have to brag for a minute, I have the BEST friends in this world. They never fail to amaze me and make me feel so grateful for them! Thanks! Thanks for always being there and reminding me that life is great!

This Looks Like Fun

2009-03-24T17:08:00.000-06:00

The first FIVE people to respond to this post will get something, handmade or homemade, from me! However there are some restrictions and limitations:

1- I make no guarantees that you will like what I make.
2- What I create will be just for you.
3- It will be done sometime within a year from now.
4- You have no clue what it's going to be
5-I have to know you so that I can customize the gift!

The catch is if you choose to do this, you must post this on your blog and be ready to make something for five people too. This will be fun! When you receive the fabulous item I make you, you must post a picture of it on your blog!

2009-03-23T18:58:00.008-06:00

I'm making my way back to blogging. So far this year has brought many changes into my life. I don't think anyone really likes change, I don't like change. In the last months I've discovered what kind of person I am and how much I'm grateful for amazing friends and family.

It's snowing outside and soothing tunes on my player take my mind to my warm trip to Moab. This was my first time going there and I loved it. I spent time climbing rocks, sitting around camp fire, meeting new people, laughing a lot, talking about skin walkers (I don't think they are real but they scare me), sleeping under the stars, being free, and realizing how great this life really is. This spring/ summer will be filled of adventures and I'm so excited!
My friend Price has been teaching me how to climb and he is very proud of me for climbing the Owl Rock for the first outdoor climb. Here are some pictures from the trip:
Balance rock.Newspaper rock.
Repelling from Owl rock after climbing it.
Price and I after the climb. This was a great trip and this year will be filled with many other fantastic trips. This spring/summer will be filled with magic.