CALLAHAN FAMILY

On hiatus, indefinitely.

2011-03-31T00:40:00.003-06:00

I'm back.....sort of

2011-02-05T08:29:00.002-07:00

Wow, I have not posted since November, that is so crazy, because there have been so many going ons' since then. I guess I just got busy in the holiday season, not sure why, it wasn't very hectic.
What happened is that my laptop died in early December. Motherboard fried to pulp. Second one in about 3 years. It wasn't worth replacing, but with it my music and pictures were inaccesible. I just procured a new laptop, but not sure how long that is going to last. The "b" key works randomly. I don't know if it is me or the keyboard. If I strike the "b" key with a little more pressure it works, but when you type about 70 wpm, "blog" ends up looking like "log". It really is quite annoying, not sure if I will just deal with it or take it back. I am leaning towards dealing with it because I already installed all my stuff on it. But as i am typing the above, you can't imagine how many 'b's I have missed. Good thing for spellcheck, except when missing the 'b' is actually a word like in 'log'.
My other problem is that I don't have a camera. My little point and shoot that I carry in my purse, is no longer with me. I let someone borrow it for an extended period of time thinking it would be okay because I would just borrow Ryan's, but Ryan can't find his point and shoot. So I am pictureless and 'b' less.

Playing Catch Up.... Again!

2010-11-13T23:00:00.002-07:00

Here I am playing playing catch up again. Time just seems to slip away. Now towards the end of the year, it seems to get faster. The next 4 posts are just some highlights of our October happenings.

Brennan's Baptism

2010-11-13T22:37:00.007-07:00

Brennan turned 8 in September and was baptized in October a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. So proud of Brennan for making this important decision. It was a special day and am thankful for family and friends that were there to support Brennan on his special day. My mom came up from California and Ed's brother & his wife, John and Donna came up from Arizona. I know Brennan felt so loved.

Reflections 2010 - Together We Can

2010-11-13T22:15:00.004-07:00

Ryan entered the PTA Relections Contest in the Photography category. You can read more about the the Relections Contest by clicking here. The theme of the submission is "Together We Can".
He won 1st place in his category at school. He got really great feedback. One of the judges was a BYU professor that was really impressed with Ryan's submission. Ryan moves on to the next level of competion. We don't know how far he will go, but if feels good to us as parents to have Ryan recognized for his talents. I can't post a pic, because I don't have one and am concerned about someone stealing Ryan's photo. Good job Ryan, we are so proud of you for taking a risk!

Pinewood Derby 2010

2010-11-13T22:01:00.006-07:00

Brennan turned 8 this month and was excited to become a Cub Scout. His first Pack Meeting happened to be the Pinewood Derby and he was very excited to build a car. With Ed's help they built a winning car. Brennan was the fastest car in his Wolf Den and also had the fastest car in the Pack resulting in Brennan becoming the Pack Winner! We were really excited for him. We could tell that he was so nervous throughout the night. But we were really happy to see that he was a gracious winner as well.

Guess who is 40????

2010-11-13T21:21:00.004-07:00

Another big event for October was my 40th Birthday. I have actually been looking forward to my 40th birthday, it feels so grown up to say you are 40. Now, I'm not saying it has been easy to get to 40, I've had a rough time getting here. But I feel like I have grown up a lot in the last few years and getting to 40 feels like a success. Can't wait to get to 50, I will be so much smarter and wiser (well I am hoping).
I had a great birthday, it started out with a great card from my oldest friend from high school that had some very kind thoughtful words that I needed to hear. Ed got me a massage, facial and pedicure. So I felt very pampered. Unfortunately, I had to go to work. When I got home from work, this was on my garage door. You can't see it well on the picture, but it said, "So what!!! You're Another Year Older....Don't get Your Panties In a Bunch!!!!" There was a string of panties on my garage. When I got into the house, the house was covered in confetti, balloons, streamers and banners (courtesy of my friends and neighbors, the Jardines).

That evening, my besties, Nissa and Christine took me out to a yummy dinner. I was so nice to spend time with these gals. Over the years, they have cried with me and laughed with me. I really rely on these gals and I hope I can do the same for them.

When we got home, I had cake with family and friends. Then I went out to a movie with my friend Christine. I received dozens of birthday wishes, calls, cards, texts and emails from many friends and family. The start of 40 is great!

Ryan's Bedroom Before & After

2010-09-22T23:27:00.005-06:00

I am finally posting Ryan's Bedroom Re-Do. Click here for the original post. Here are the before pics again. The pictures are not that great, but basically it's the original paint, the room has not changed since we moved into the house 4 years ago.
BEFORE:

Drum Roll ....... I call it modern minimalist-cool chic.
AFTER:

I started out by clearing out the entire room. It is so much easier to work in the space if you clear everything out. Then we started taping. Because of Ed's back, I didn't get any help from him, but Ryan stepped up to the plate and he taped everything. He did an awesome job. Then there was some debate on whether to do the horizontal stripe around the room. That took about 1 day of thought (I do a lot of thinking, before actually doing it). I painted the room in Behr Premium Plus in Anonymous which is a gray. After it dried, I taped for the horizontal stripe. I bought a laser level because I thought it would help, but found it more frustrating than helpful.

I painted the horizontal stripe in Behr Premium Plus in Stealth which is on the same color card as the Anonymous. There were some mishaps with the stripe (we recovered). Half way through I was trying to justify in my head, how I could get away with just doing 2 walls and not go all the way around, but I prevailed. We really loved the way it turned out. I was concerned that it would be too dark, but it turned out great. I really like the contrast of the colors with the white mouldings.

We had already bought some other bedding, but I happened to be browsing at Wal-Mart and found this Microfiber bedding set which I thought would go so much better, so I had Ryan choose and he chose the Wal-Mart set. The picture frame above the bed is from IKEA. We were actually there to buy a different picture, then saw this one on clearance for under $30....AMAZING....the original picture I was going in there to buy was over $100. The pic is black and gray hues, with a red pop of color, just like the pillow on the bed. The smoke colored curtains are from IKEA , 2 panels for under $20!!! I swapped the dresser from Brennan's room for Ryan's old nightstand. I left space above the dresser for a future wall mounted TV...way down the road! I re-purposed some frames that I had in storage. I didn't want to put a night stand back in because it is a magnet for clutter. So I helped Ryan de-clutter, sort, organize and store and put in these floating shelves. Tah-dah! Now Brennan is jealous and wants a redo in his room. I need to recover from this one first.

Bonneville Salt Flats

2010-09-08T17:35:00.004-06:00

Sunday after church we headed for the Bonneville Salt Flats and Speedway. Ryan had been wanting to go all Summer and do some photography and we just couldn't squeeze it in until last weekend. We packed a dinner and drove out there for the evening for some good photography lighting. We had great family time, which I think we don't get enough of. I love hanging with my boys and having them all to myself. I highly recommend the Flats, it's like you are on another planet. We got on the Speedway and Ed drove pretty fast, no land records were broken, but it was pretty exhilirating. Ryan practiced his photography and driving. Brennan and I walked around and did some reading.
On our way out from the Speedway, we stopped at the entrance to eat our dinner and ran across a biker couple with their "hogs" who were having some mechanical problems. Ed asked if they needed help and they said they were okay, but I encouraged Ed to wait and finish our dinner and make sure they got off okay because it was getting dark and the speedway had pretty much cleared out. After about 45 minutes, they couldn't get their bike started so we offered to push start. Because of Ed's back he couldn't help, but Ryan and I threw on our running shoes (Ed always throws in a pair of extra shoes for us) and we got the bike going. It feels so good to help people.
The Salt Flats are called the "Salt Flats" for a reason. It is Salty. Because Ryan was laying down on the ground for some of his shots, the ground is moist and he was soaked and salty. His clothes were hard when they dried. The inside of the car was packed with salt from our shoes. When we got a look at the car the next day the wheel wells of the car were packed with salt that looked like snow and outside of the car had a thick coating of salt. Needless to say, a serious car wash was in order Monday morning.

He's Got Our Back

2010-09-02T09:28:00.001-06:00

Ed has been having some major lower back issues over the past several months. His back pain is a major source of conversation in our household. The other morning, I woke up to find this on the floor outside my bedroom door.

Dad this can help you with your back!!!!!!!! $39.95 Call 1-800-617-6086

Apparently, Brennan had been up early that morning watching TV and saw a commercial for some kind of back remedy. We're still not sure what it is. But we thought it was so cute that he was thinking about Ed, wrote down all the information and didn't wake us up.

First Day of School - 2010

2010-09-01T17:40:00.003-06:00

The boys started school last week. Yahoo! I am not one of those parents that cries when their kids start school. I love it! I am so excited to have everyone back on a schedule, including myself! The only thing I don't like is homework, their homework means homework for me too!

Ryan - 9th Grade

Brennan - 2nd grade

Jake, Josh & Brennan
buddies at the bus stop

Chris Isaak II

2010-08-25T20:15:00.004-06:00

I love me some Chris Isaak. I got to see Chris again at Red Butte Gardens this year. Because I saw him last year, I knew he could be coming out to the audience and I knew if he did, what the possible route would be and I would be there waiting for him like the stalker that I am. Sure enough I was standing 2 feet from him. I was trying to take a picture but I was so "twitterpated" that I think I took a picture of my feet and random people. I just adore his voice, sense of humor and unrequited love ballads.

Unexpected So You Think You Can Dance Fan

2010-08-25T19:52:00.005-06:00

I know I am way behind the times and probably the only person in American who had never seen SYTYCD. This issue was discussed with my SIL and niece this summer at Lake Powell and I was put to task to watch it this season. I watched and I loved it! Even Ed became a fan and got a bit bent out of shape if I watched without him. But we had an unexpected fan in our midst, we discovered Brennan became a fan of the show and big fan of Jose. Check out Brennan's dance "stylings".

Ryan's Room Redo - Before

2010-08-18T12:00:00.003-06:00

I am tackling another home project while I am also working on my craft room. I am also working on a redo of Ryan's room. I wanted to surprise him with the room completed while he was on his 5 day Scout high adventure trip, but I couldn't pull it off. I really wanted to do a more traditional look with a chair rail and a burgundy color to match his current bedding to save some moolah, but as I was thinking about it, I realized it was more my want and not necessarily a reflection of what Ryan would like. So I put on my Ryan hat and started trying to think of what he would like. I came up with a more modern, contemporary look to reflect his artistic sensibilities. I presented my idea to him and he really liked it and is super excited about it. Last week we picked new bedding, paint color and some accessories. I am hoping that it looks great and that he will be happy with his space. I will post the after pictures once I get the room completed.

Here are some of the before pics:

The closet doors (above) take up almost an entire wall. If I had money, know-how and "manpower", I would make the closet half the size, by knocking down the left hand side wall, reframing the closet, which would create a niche for a desk....maybe in another life.

The room is very small, so there is not a whole lot of furniture. I will probably not be putting this super old (it really is not that old, but you know how technology advances) TV back in the room. You can't tell from the pics, but there are about 5 speakers that go with his CD Player/Tuner. When you walk into the room, all you see are wires behind the TV, soooooo not sexy. I am excited to get rid of the tangled web of wires. I would love to get him a small flat screen TV to mount on the wall. Again, maybe in another life.

I am going to be changing out the bedding and curtains to a more contemporary, minimalist look. Currently the comforter and shams are traditional from Nautica. The curtains, bedskirt and pillows are denim. I still really like them, but the "boy" has grown up and outgrown this look. I am going to be repurposing the shelf above the bed. I am planning on painting it and putting it in the craft room during my craftroom redo, click here. Still not sure what I will do about the nightstand. His current nightstand will not go with my idea, however, he needs a nightstand for his clock/radio, but that nightstand is a magnet for clutter. If I end of using it, I may repaint it. Decisions, decisions.....

Your Problems

2010-08-08T15:34:00.003-06:00

I just read this quote in one of the yoga blogs I read. Food for thought!

The problematic situations in your life are not chance or haphazard. They are specifically yours, designed specifically for you by a part of you that loves you more than anything else. The part of you that loves you more than anything else has created roadblocks to lead you to yourself...it doesn't want you to lose the chance. It will go to extreme measures to wake you up. - A.H. Almaas

Craft Room Project

2010-08-03T12:05:00.003-06:00

Since we got our basement finished a while back, I have been so excited to have a craft room for all my doings. I feel pretty lucky to have a room all to myself, it feels pretty decadent! Well, it has NOT looked decadent, nor do I really do anything in there because it is so uninspiring. It is a disaster zone in there. So I made the decision a couple weeks ago, to start working in there and start getting it organized and decorated. It's a work in progress, but I am excited to get this part of home and life sorted out. Here are my before pictures:

Here are my attempts to start sorting. I will admit, I kind of am a pack rat, an organized pack rat, but a pack rat none-the-less. I keep lots of things. Here's the kind of things I got in that room: receipts and instruction books for every major purchase we have ever made (if we still own it), every single letter and card that Ed has ever given me in the past 20 years, my report cards starting from kindergarten, the boys report cards, school work, awards, art work, geneology and who knows what else I haven't uncovered yet. First order of business is sorting all the papers and junk.

Notice the hole in the wall, it's an access panel to some kind of pipe. I think I have been harassing Ed on a monthly basis to get that covered and fixed. May need to come up with a better way to ask him to do that.

Day Adventure to Dugway Geode Beds

2010-08-02T21:29:00.005-06:00

Late last week, my partner in crime, Christine and I took the kids on a 4-wheelin desert adventure to hunt for geodes. We heard about it, googled it, filled up the gas tank, packed the car with water, snacks, kids and digging equipment, stopped for some $1 Cokes at McDonalds and away we went on our adventure out to Dugway. On our way there we saw lots of Antelope. This little guy, just sat and stared at us as we stared back.

We stopped at the one of the historic Pony Express Stations at Simpson Springs and the gang posed for a picture.

After about 50 miles of gravel roads and no other cars on the road, we arrived at the Geode beds. We had no idea exactly what we were doing, we had done the research, but it is a different story from reading about it to the literal applications of it. So when we got to the beds, we finally saw two people on the side of a hill digging. So I stopped to talk to them and get the "skinny" and the "411" on the geode situation. They were very nice and told me they were novices themselves, but did give me some information on what a geode sounds like when you hit it against a rock, they do have distinctive sounds. So away we went to find our own locale to dig.

So we drove around the area a bit. Found a place to park, set up our day camp with umbrellas, chairs, drinks and snacks. And away we go to digging and exploring. Christine, Ky and Brennan got right to it finding geodes ( I am sure Christine will be thrilled by the butt shot).

Rylan had to work really hard digging out a really big geode.

It was pretty stinkin hot, in the mid 90's, so we tried to stay in the shade as much as possible. Here is Ky and Brennan contemplating their next dig site.

There were some puddles of water and Brennan brought his net and was able to find some toads that he was able to catch and bring home.

Christine and Emmy trying to keep cool under the shade.

Emmy is such a crack up, she is such a "ham", I just love this kid!

These are some of Brennan's finds.

We had some much fun on our adventure. On our way home we got a little crazy by 4-wheelin over some big hills and hitting some of the mud puddles pretty fast and seeing how high we could get the mud to go. The kids had so much fun, it sounded like rollercoaster screams some of the time. Can't wait to go on our next adventure.

Can a Messy Garage Inspire a Brief Moment of Self Awareness?

2010-07-28T23:54:00.013-06:00

So Wednesday morning, I was in a mood (PMS may have played a factor). I had to get up early to roll the trash can out to the curb because I was pretty sure Ed had not done it when he got home late the night before. I had to gather up some trash that was in the garage as well, you know, the kind that you sit out there in hopes that someone else will notice it and carry out to the bin, but it can sit there for days because it takes on "invisible" qualities. Only I seem to see it, smell it and trip over it, but curiously, it becomes "invisible" to everyone else, so odd ;-) I digress... on to the story.

While in the garage gathering trash, I look around, and the garage is a freakin' mess (I lie, no, I didn't just notice it, I notice it all the time. The garage is the bain of my existence. I am always harassing someone to clean up the garage). Garage cleaning is on the repertoire of my monthly cleaning activities. I clean, someone else does this:

This is Ryan's "project" table:

Curiously, I had had a conversation with Ed on Saturday about what a mess the garage was. I impressed how tired I was of the mess and how we can't even park a car in the garage. Not to mention the holes in the drywall caused by an "experimental" dowel shooting gun and the holes caused by BB's. I reminded Ed of Ryan's failure to comply with some basic rules, 1. No fire in the garage. 2. No shooting of any kind in the garage. 3. Clean up after yourself. 4. No property damage. (From the evidence in the garage, Ryan had violated 3 out of 4 rules). Ed calmed me down, cause I was pretty worked up, he assured me that he and Ryan would work on cleaning the garage and he would talk to Ryan about the rules.

Fast forward to Wednesday, back to my story. So I look around and it is clear to see that my conversation with Ed on Saturday has done nothing for the garage. So now I start to feel my blood slowly starting to boil. I start moving things around, sweeping, trying to put things away, I am starting to feel overwhelmed by the magnitude of the disaster in there. Besides the fact that it is 7 am, I am in my pajamas, the garage is like 90 degrees. I remember my plea for a call to action from Ed on Saturday and my blood starts to boil hotter. This enrages me more, so I really start to get in there and move stuff around. Finally I am overcome by the thought that I am sweating my guts out and I am cleaning the garage in my favorite pajamas..... whoa...what's wrong with me?!?!

I go back inside, throw my pajamas in the laundry room and head to the closet to change. Ed is in the shower getting ready for work. I sit on the edge of the tub contemplating my strategy. Should I give Ed the silent treatment? Tempting.... and my standard protocol, but after 2 years of therapy, I have moved beyond that, but it does tempt me and beckon me to rejoin the dark side. Then it occurs to me that I was upset about something else (not important to anyone else but myself) that had been eating at me since the night before. The mess in the garage triggered an emotional reaction and my action to clean it, is kind of a coping mechanism. Not a healthy one. Sure it gets the garage cleaned, but what it does is it gives me more "justification" to be madder. Not a good thing. Essentially, I am creating more reasons for me to be mad and be victimized. Lightbulb moment!!!! So you know how I was just saying that old habits die hard, that we are tempted to keep doing our bad behavior and go back to the dark side? Boy is it hard, because just as I was sitting there having my "lightbulb moment", I am sitting there looking at the baseboard in the bathroom that I have been asking Ed to paint for about 3 years, then I start looking around at the nail hole on the door frame, that hasn't been filled and I start thinking about the small section of unfinished moulding that I can only see when I am in the shower....and slowly my blood begins to boil again and there I am again, looking and finding more reasons to be mad. Uh, "lightbulb" moment a-gain!

So what's my new and improved modus operandi? Just talking about it. I told Ed about my frustration(s). Then told him about the "lightbulb" moment(s), he laughed with me and said I was very "self-aware". He apologized about the garage (I have a feeling, I am still going to end up cleaning it, that's how we roll in this family, but at least it will be because I want to).

Before I go, this is what "my side" of the garage looks like:

Need I say more?

Pulled in Different Directions Rant

2010-07-28T22:53:00.008-06:00

The above picture describes what my month of July has looked like! Quick story about this picture: I was driving down Geneva Rd somewhere between Orem and Lindon and I saw this mess on the side of the road. I had to turn around and take the picture because it totally reminded me of what my life feels like sometimes. It really made me chuckle!
So, on to my mess on the side of the road. Busy month and no time to blog, I thought summer was suppose to slow things down, not for me, I have been super busy, trying to balance life, work, the boys, relationships.......Here's the breakdown:

Work - has been very busy, covering for some of my co-workers this month has kept me busy working some extra hours. I don't mind it at all, but it does get me a little stressed about spending less time with the boys. Having this job is really a big blessing in my life, can't complain.
The Boys - well, it's summer and they are mostly bored. Ryan is busy working his odd jobs around the neighborhood. So proud that he earns his own money. It has made him more conscientious about what we spend money on. Brennan watches way too much tv and spends way too much time playing video games. I am feeling a lot of guilt about it. So the past 1 1/2 weeks I have stepped it up by trying to get him out of the house and spend more time doing things. We've gone to the pool twice, played legos, gone to lunch, gone out for donuts, window shopped, Chuck E. Cheese, we have a couple more activities planned in the next few days. Ryan is off at Scout High Adventure Camp, climbing King's Peak this week. He was not thrilled, but I am glad he went. Ed and I are putting out positive vibes that he has a good time.
Ed - has been a dear lately. He has had a lot of stress at work as of late and is suffering from a bad back that is going on two month now. He is in quite a bit of pain, but is trying to stay positive. Last week, he was suppose to take some time off of work, but various crisis at work prevented him from doing so. He hardly ever takes time off and has been working some extra long hours. Case in point, last Saturday he worked from 8 am to midnite. On Sunday, he had to go in from 6 pm to midnite and yesterday he left here at 7:30 am and didn't get home until midnite (oh, and he doesn't get paid overtime).
Myself - I have been feeling quite a bit of anxiety lately. Trying to pin down the source, but nothing specific yet. Things that may be contributing to it, not getting enough exercise. I have been quite a exercise slacker lately. I just wanted to take a few days off that has turned into probably 3 weeks. The good news is, my knees feel FANTASTIC! The bad news is, I'm still a slacker, dreading restarting exercising and the muscle pain. This is how bad it's been..... I have not even been to Yoga (and if you know me, you know I don't miss yoga for nobody), so I am NOT feeling "one with the universe", (could definitely be a contributor to the anxiety). Have had some interesting moments of self-awareness, I will try to share those more often. I will post one tomorrow that happened to me this morning, but I am losing steam.

June in Review

2010-07-01T23:59:00.002-06:00

I have been so negligent in my blogging lately. Life gets a hold of me and sucks me into the ebbs and flows of life, but here I am a little further downstream. June has been very busy, hectic, fun and amazing.

Here are some highlights:

Lake Powell 2010

2010-07-01T23:58:00.007-06:00

Ryan wakeboarding

Brennan and Aunt Donna

Scrabble with Natalie, Brennan, Simone, Chad and Sabrina

Brennan Fishing

Sabrina, Donna and Natalie

June started out with our yearly trip to Lake Powell. It was most amazing because this year we were joined by the other Callahan Clan, Ed's brother and his family. We had a great time, lots of laughs, food, fun and sun. The top 5 things I want to remember about the trip are:

1. Spending time with my sis-in-law Donna. She rocks!

2. Spending time with my niece Natalie. She makes me feel important.

3. Brennan studying fish, reading about fish, catching fish and torturing everyone else with fish facts. My nephew, Chad was the most incredible patient fishing assistant to Brennan ever. Thanks Chad!

4. Cliff jumping - NEVER tell Donna and Yolanda that they are NO fun! We will prove you wrong, even if that means jumping off cliffs.

5. Playing Scrabble with the girls and having the biggest laugh of the weekend about the spelling of "jive/give". Sabrina and Simone, just thinking about you two gives me the biggest smile.

PALM DESERT Friends Reunion

2010-07-01T23:57:00.003-06:00

Need to get a better pic

This month, I also had the most amazing reunion with some very important women in my life. Their importance became more apparent to me over the weekend I spent with them in June. We were brought together in 1988 in Palm Desert, California, at a crossroads in all our lives, and we have been bound by some very incredible and magical events (no time to blog about it now). In June, we got together because Carolyn's daughter got married. it was a wonderful reunion, reminiscing about old times, having the time honored tradition, "schmut" night, have some great laughs and also sharing our burdens. Being with these women was surprisingly an answer to a silent prayer I had in my heart for quite some time. I am so excited to reconnect with them and continue our friendships for another 22 years.

Art Show

2010-07-01T23:56:00.002-06:00

Also a big event this month was that Ryan entered an Art Show in Colorado for his Photography. He submitted two photographic works. One of the photos won Best in Show in the Student category. This means that he beat out all the other mediums; oil/acrylic, watercolor, sculpture, etc, in his category. His second entry got 4th place. He received a cash award and his photograph was also sold at the show. He received some a very positive critique from the judge. We are so proud of him. See the article in the paper here: http://www.deltacountyindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=15895:edge-of-cedars-art-show-features-long-list-of-winners&catid=36:sc&Itemid=346&date=2010-06-01
Sorry, I can't post the pics. Ryan needs to get a copyright watermark on the pics before posting.

Ragnar Wasatch Back 2010

2010-07-01T23:55:00.005-06:00

Team 186-Holy Crap, I didn't get my training done!

Ragnar Relay/Wasatch Back has come and gone and I survived my 2nd relay. I seriously had my doubts, due to a bum knee that I have been trying to nurse for the past 6 months. As always, super fun! A little different than last time since we had a coed team, but a blast just the same.

The top 5 highlights for me of the relay:

1. Me being in the middle of a Cheryl and Christine sandwich while we slept in the back of the Excursion. People, let me tell you.... it is possible to sleep 4 people in the back. It's not the most comfortable, but when you have only slept 3 hours the night before and you are physically exhausted from running, laying down flat with your best buddies keeping you warm and making you laugh with "fart talk" is the best feeling.

2. Ryan running the Relay with us was so cool. Ryan is a super duper super hero in my book. He had the longest distances to run and he was a champ. On his second leg, he developed a serious blister that covered half the bottom of his foot. I could tell he was in so much pain. The next morning, he put moleskins and duct tape on and ran his final leg. I do have to admit that it was a little stressful for me to have him with us, that maternal instinct kicks in and it gets you a little stressed about their comfort and safety. The jury is still out on whether he had fun, he still has not given me a definitive answer.

3. Meeting Christine at the top of a hill she just ran, she has her headphones on, so she has no idea how loud she is and she says this: "That hill was a bitch". Complete strangers were laughing, good thing there were no children present, well except for Ryan and he thought it was pretty funny.

4. This may make no sense to anyone else, except to Christine and myself, but after catching a little shut eye, it was so cold in the morning and Christine and I were sitting in the back of the car trying to stay warm and wake up. Scott is trying to load the seat we had removed from the car back into place. He asked for our help...he didn't get any except for a bunch of delirious laughing from Christine and myself.

5. Cheryl. Need I say more? I don't know anyone who has more energy, is more helpful, positive, can make you a sandwich or grab something out of the ice chest for you without any hesitation.

6. Ok, I lied, I have 6 items. Last,but not least...The amazing, kick a$$ chicks in Van #2. These girls are hardcore, most amazing athletic chicks. They made us look like sissies!

I do have an admission to make. As I lay down trying to sleep after my 2nd leg, and after feeling something snap and come undone in the back of my knee, I thought, "I am never doing this again. I am recanting on my commitment of saying that I am doing the Vegas Relay in October. It is not happening!" Well, it's happening.... I am all signed up to run my LAST and FINAL Ragnar Relay in October. I mean it, it's my last Ragnar!

Oh Ragnar, what have I done???

2010-06-03T15:27:00.003-06:00

It's that time again for Ragnar Relay....188 miles of fun and torture. I am actually feeling very scared. There is no way I trained anywhere close to what I should have this time. I have been suffering from a knee injury for the past 4 months, so I tried to take it easy in hopes that it would get better. I stopped running and started biking in order to give my knee a rest. I realized I really like spin class, but I am nervous because the running has not happened and I am 2 weeks away from go time. I don't have doubts that I can do it, it just won't be pretty. My knee is still hurting a bit, but I am just going to run through the pain and gave a fun time with my family and friends.

Girl's Weekend & Bono Postponed...so sad!

2010-06-01T15:51:00.003-06:00

I have been waiting for months to check another thing off my "bucket list".... seeing U2 in concert. Unfortunately, Bono was injured and had to have back surgery and all his US concert dates have been postponed until 2011. Wishing Bono a speedy recovery! Luv him!
I had tickets to shows in SLC (2nd row, amazing section, thanks Diane!) and free tickets to the Denver show (thanks Nissa's brother!). I was doing a girl's weekend in Denver, the city I call home, with my friends, Nissa and Christine. I am so sad, I have been looking forward to this for months, taking a road trip with good friends, going to an amazing concert and spending a great time with great friends. So now I must wait until 2011 to see 3 great concerts, Lady Gaga is already on the calendar!!!

Small Changes

2010-06-01T14:44:00.003-06:00

Last week I undertook a little home project. I decided that I wanted to paint the floor vent registers that go on the wood floors. The white registers had never bothered me because it matched all the mouldings in the house, but as I started to think about it, I thought, the white registers were a little shocking against the walnut wood floors. So I found a Krylon Brushed Metallic Oil Rubbed Bronze spraypaint that will compliment the existing hardware and fixtures.
I like the change, but now the registers seem shocking against the mouldings. The jury is still out....what do you think?

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Super Busy

2010-05-20T08:07:00.002-06:00

I have been super busy these last few weeks. Managing a household, a job, and volunteer service is hard work! I really need to find a way to not overextend myself, still working on that. I always get asked by some of my friends, how I do it?....I don't know, I just do it. I can't sit still, it is a skill, trait, curse that I have picked up since childhood (spent some time exploring that in therapy, it isn't all good, believe me)
So here is what I/we have been up to and occupying valuable brain space:

End of the school year activities, like looking for missing library books, making arrangements for the boys missing the last 2 days fo school, making sure they have enough lunch money in their accounts to get them to the end.
Dentist appointments. I have learned that once you have health/dental insurance, don't put off getting any procedures done because you never know when your insurance will disappear.
Researching, getting quotes for the best prices and quality for the blinds in our basement windows. Finally after 2 years there is some privacy in the basement.
Cleaned and organize the garage..... again. The garage was out of control. Ryan uses it as his workshop for building things, currently a homemade camera and making rocket fuel. The boy does not put anything away. I really went at it with trying to dejunkify. I have 2 pieces of furniture that were in storage in the garage that have been there for about 4 years, we haven't used them since we moved from our Colorado home 5 years ago. I pulled them out so I could take pictures of them so I could try to sell them. I made a trip to DI (Deseret Industries) and dropped off a big load of stuff that is still in good shape, but no longer used, seriously who needs 1500 different types of screws. I threw away lots of junk, I don't know why we were keeping. Big project on the horizon: sealing the garage floors, finishing and painting the walls and installing shelves.
I have also tried to dejunkify things inside our home. Over the last few weeks, I have sold stuff on ebay. I have made about $450 dollars over the last few weeks. I still have some things listed that I am expecting to make another $100 and still more things I need to list. It started out with trying to make some extra cash for a splurge and get a wallet I have been coveting, then it turned into using the $$$ for my upcoming girl's weekend, but now I am rethinking and may use the $$$ for new bedroom furniture. (BTW, I got the wallet anyways).

There is lots more stuff, but I gotta get to work. I will try to post more of my doings later today with pictures.

Track & Field 2010

2010-04-30T00:01:00.002-06:00

This year Ryan participated in Track and Field for the Junior High. He participated in several running events, but his thing was the High Jump. We had no idea he had an interest in doing this, but he was really dedicated going to all the practices, even in the chilly weather. The first time I saw him do high jump, I was so nervous, I just about passed out. I had never seen anything like it. I was so impressed.

You can't tell so well in the above picture, but Ryan's arms are so buff.

I realized after the 1st track meet, that there is a lot of waiting around at these meets.

This video is of Ryan running the tail end of the 800m. I was so excited at how fast he was going that it's not so good video and I am cheering him on so you'll hear by obnoxious frantic cheering.

Visit to the Ranch - Spring 2010

2010-04-29T17:12:00.014-06:00

A couple weeks ago we had a nice visit to the grandarent's ranch in Colorado. We always enjoy our visits. It's always relaxing and there is always something for the boys to do. On this visit, grandpa put the boys to work. Grandpa gathers and collects wood all year round to run his wood burning furnace.

Grandpa's wood pile and woodburning furnace

While Grandpa, Ed and Ryan were working, Brennan was doing this:

There was also some of this.... boys being boys:

The Callahan boys

Racoon Eyes

2010-04-21T13:53:00.004-06:00

One week ago today we were having such great weather that my friend Christine and I sat outside all day on her front yard. We ate lunch outside, sat out for about 5 hours and just talked, laughed, watched the kids play and had a great afternoon. We were both wearing our sunglasses, just relaxing. When I finally made it inside to make dinnner, I noticed that my arms were stinging and my nose was burning. I looked at my arms and they were red from too much sun. I looked in the mirror and half my face and nose were red. Because I was wearing sunglasses, I have racoon eyes. So the days go by, the redness sets in to a tan, but I still have racoon eyes. Ryan and Ed like to look at me and laugh about it. Fast forward 1 week to this morning as I am helping Brennan get ready for school, I look into his face and I tell him, "I don't think you are getting enough sleep, you have dark circles under your eyes." He looks carefully into my eyes and thinks for a minute and he says, "Well you have white circles under your eyes". It's not from concealer, I still have racoon eyes.

Spring Break-Zoo

2010-04-12T22:24:00.011-06:00

Brennan has been 'pestering' me about how he has never gone to the zoo (I did take him as a toddler), and how all his friends have gone and he is the only kid that has never gone to the zoo. Pretty much, he gave me a guilt trip, made me feel like a bad parent .....so now I have joined the ranks of good parents and took my boys to the zoo, and here is the proof.
I had a great time with Ryan and Brennan. I love spending time with them, we make each other laugh. I find out all sorts of things about them when I have them all to myself with no electronic distractions.

ProvoCola.com

2010-04-02T10:34:00.003-06:00

A friend posted this on her FB account. Especially funny if you went to BYU.

Valley 3 News: BYU Brings Caffeine to Campus from Jimmy Newell on Vimeo.

Funny Fools!

2010-04-01T01:38:00.002-06:00

Happy April Fools. No time for pranks, but I do have two funny stories compliments of Brennan.
Story #1:
Last night as I was doing something in the kitchen, I called to Brennan who was in the Family Room that it was time for bed.
Me: "Brennan, time for bed"
Brennan: (as he hides underneath a blanket) "Brennan is not available right now, but leave a message and he'll get back to you...BEEEEEEEP"

Story #2
This is the Chincilla story that I mentioned a couple nights ago. Last week Brennan checked out a book at the library about Chincillas. He has been trying to convince us to get him a Chinchilla. The book has a lot of pictures that Brennan likes to look at. It was after dinner and I was sitting next to Ryan looking at pictures on the computer when Brennan comes up to us with book in hand opened to this picture:

Brennan: (speaking to me) "Look this is you and Dad. (Pointing at picture) This is you and this is dad."
Me: (mouth open, speechless)
Ryan: (snickering....)
Me: "Wh Wh What??"
Brennan: "This is you and dad"
Ryan: (more snickering and now laughing) "That's how you happened Brennan"
Me: (mouthing to Ed 9 feet away, "what has he seen?" with a horrified look on my face)
Brennan: "Yah, this is you and dad when your are on the couch hanging out & watching TV"
Ed, Me & Ryan: (collective sigh of relief and laughing)

Our mind was in the gutter, we saw it so literally, when all Brennan saw was that these Chincillas were cuddling. We have had a few good laughs about this and we are also really relieved we didn't have to do any explaining.

HaPpy BIrThDAy to Ed

2010-03-31T10:42:00.003-06:00

We celebrated Ed's 42nd Birthday by going out to dinner and having cake the next day because we were so full from dinner on Ed's birthday. These boys got really silly and ended up with cake on their faces.

Brennan kept making the craziest and silliest faces in every single picture I took. Ed played a joke on him....

Ed dunked Brennan's face into the cake, he thought it was funny, then two seconds after this picture was taken, Brennan started crying because he had frosting up his nose.

Ed got really silly trying to get Brennan to stop crying.

Arches National Park-Winter 2010

2010-03-31T02:31:00.008-06:00

In January we made a day trip to Moab/Arches National Park. Ryan wanted to test out his new camera and we thought it would be a great day trip and an opportunity for some family time. We had so much fun hiking and exploring. We practically had the park all to ourselves. We spent a few hours at the park, went into town for some dinner, then went back at night.

Ryan took this picture of Ed & me. We are sitting under an Arch.

Brennan with Fiery Furnace in the background

Brennan is also an aspiring photrographer. He likes to do whatever his big brother does.

I took this picture of Ryan taking a picture of me.

Brennan took this picture of me under an arch and I can't get over how huge my ba dunk a dunk is. I knew it was big, but no denying it now.

Look at Your Man....I'm on a Horse

2010-03-30T16:36:00.004-06:00

This commercial just makes me laugh everytime I see it.

Busy and Blogless

2010-03-29T02:33:00.000-06:00

I have been so busy with life, the boys and work that I have not had time to update my blog, so I am trying to play catch up. I picked my favorite picture over the past 3 months of each boy.

Brennan at the Flash game having just been sprayed by silly string by Flash the Fox, he got me good too!

Ed showing us that he can now do a headstand, thanks to Yoga. Let's not forget who introduced Ed to Yoga.

Ryan looking like a rockstar after straightening his hair.

Highlights of the last few months:

Ed had his 42nd Birthday (more pics coming).
We went to Arches for the day (more pics coming).
Ryan entered his first photography contest. He did amazing work and we are so proud of him.
Ryan has been doing amazing in school. He's been on the honor roll. We also met with his school counselor and received his Iowa Test results, a composite score in the 94th percentile. Not only is he a good son, so nice, kind, sweet, generous, and cute, he is also "freakin'" smart!
I registered to do the Ragnar Relay (Wasatch Back). This will be my 2nd Ragnar and Ed and Ryan's 1st. Bad news is I've been struggling with a bum knee.
I got tickets to U2 (another item off the bucket list). Going to see U2 twice in June, girl's weekend to Denver for the concert thanks to the generous gift of free tickets from my friend Nissa's brother. Thanks Hans! Amazing 2nd row tickets in an amazing section for the Salt Lake show thanks to my friend Diane. Thanks Diane (membership definitely has it's priveleges)!
Brennan is growing and learning and saying the funniest things. I will have to share the Chinchilla story in a later post. I think he keeps us young at heart.
I have discovered Pilates, Spinning and Core Mix/Pump. Have had to replace running with these new activities to try to give my knee a chance to heal. I am really enjoying these activities, although the next day my body aches all over and talks back to me for submitting it to torture. In Spinning, I fantasize about Lotoja.....you never know, crazier things have happened.

I know there is probably a lot more, but it is 2:30 am and I am finally getting very tired.......

Oh My!!!

2010-02-22T00:45:00.005-07:00

Well I have not posted in a while.....it's all for the better because I have been in quite a funk. So it's probably for the best. As I was vacuuming (I do my deep thinking in the shower and while vacuuming), I was thinking I need to just post my angst, and I got myself all psyched to do it, but then I thought better of it because I will just come off as a psycho, not that I don't already, because I'm pretty sure I do. We'll see what I end up doing, I will just need to vacuum the rest of the house and take longer showers before I decide how to proceed.
In the meantime, while I sort out my dilema, I had a high school friend (thanks Gina) post this on her facebook status a few weeks ago and I absolutely love this.

I am strong because I am weak.

I am beautiful because I know my flaws.

I am a lover because I am a fighter.

I am fearless because I have been afraid.

I am wise because I have been foolish.

I can laugh because I've known sadness.

-Unknown

This has become my mantra. After two years of weekly therapy, this has so much meaning for me.

The 80/20 Rule

2010-01-07T23:29:00.001-07:00

Ed forwarded this to me from one of his colleagues.
The original can be found at www.drtimthayne.com
I really liked the message and thought it was appropriate for the New Year.

Italian Economist Vilfredo Pareto observed in 1906 that 80% of the land in Italy was owned by 20% of the population, and found that it was similarly distributed in other countries as well.
Since then, business management has applied this principal as a rule of thumb in business: that 80% of your sales come from 20% of your clients, or 80% of your productivity comes from 20% of your employees.
Does this rule apply to you? Sure. Don’t you wear 20% of the clothes in your closet about 80% of the time? Or eat 20% of the favorite meals for 80% of your dinners? Or maybe out of your 10 favorite people, you are in contact with 2 of them 80% of the time?
Though it’s not a rule you couldn’t poke holes through, there are some extremely spot-on lessons to learn from this 80/20 rule:
We could all take this new decade and look at the 20% of our personal interactions that yield 80% of our joy and satisfaction. Focus there. Don’t be distracted by the sheer number of those “other” interactions.
In our work, we need to shift our concentration to the 20 percent of clients and projects that generate 80 percent of the revenue. Even if we think we’re really good at keeping a dozen plates spinning, if we narrow our energies to that which can build the greatest wealth, we arrive at that abundant place much more quickly.
Lastly, know that you can get rid of that 20% that causes 80% of your grief and worry, (unless it’s a spouse or child, of course)! For 2010, my goal is to focus on the 20% that creates 80% of the value in my life...both in my personal as well as business life. Then with that extra time and energy, I’ll find more of those people and experiences that fit in that 20% category. Wow, the sky is the limit here!
So what makes up the 20% in your life? Identify it, magnify it, and make 2010 the best year you've ever had. Happy New Year!

Keeping it Real

2009-12-19T19:35:00.000-07:00

Out of Control:
In Control:

Christmas Topiaries

2009-12-10T12:06:00.002-07:00

I saw these super cute topiaries at Gardner Village after Thanksgiving. I absolutely love them. However, they were $80 for the set. I'm going to make them. The bases are regular candle holders in 3 different sizes. Each tree is a styrofoam cone. From what I can tell, the fabric was dipped in liquid starch and scrunched and pinned with a metal staple.
I priced out some similar candle holders, I can get all three for under $25 (paying full price). I have gone to 2 different craft stores and no surprise....all sold out of cones!
The staples are metal and are "squiggly", not sure where to find those. I haven't gone to Home Depot yet to see what my options are. I also need some fabric. If anyone has some cute remnants of fabric, I am accepting donations. I want to use similar colors because they really look well together.
I'm hoping I can make them before Christmas, if not, I have a full year 'til next Christmas.

20 Years!

2009-12-09T10:00:00.000-07:00

Today is Ed and I's 20, yes you hear right TWENTY year Anniversary. A couple years back, I started to save up for a big celebration of 20 years. I thought, we're gonna do this right....well then the economy tanked and Ed's income got cut by more than half, so my $$$ that was tucked away was used for things like groceries, clothing for growing boys and utilities. No fancy trips, cruises, weekend away to celebrate 20! Do I sound bitter? I am! I really was thinking ahead and had saved up a lot of dough, but oh well, we still got a roof over our heads!

Ok, on a more serious note, there was a time in the very recent past that we didn't think we would make it this far. We've had some extremely rough patches lately, lots of heartache and headache. Alot of facing our demons, being honest and confronting our fears. Two solid years of therapy so far, and here we still are. There are days when I'm not sure we have another year in us, but then there are days when I feel we have an eternity ahead of us. Not sure, where we'll end up, it's been a wild ride so far, but I'm glad to be on the ride and have Ed beside me. Our marriage is stronger than it has ever been, yet I am more aware of how fragile our relationships are. We have to care for them, nurture them, take risks, be vulnerable and nourish them daily. I have learned so much these past 2 years that I wish I would have known sooner, but at least I know it now and for this we must celebrate! Happy Anniversary to Ed and me!

Christmas Decorating - Phase III

2009-12-07T22:29:00.000-07:00

Christmas Tree #3 is up this week as well. This is my favorite tree. It's colorful and bright. This year I put this one upstairs in a little corner. I still have visions of 2 more tree, but not this year. Maybe in years to come. I would like one in the kitchen and one in the basement (shhh, just don't tell Ed! He thinks I'm crazy).

The first thing to go up after Thanksgiving was the Nativity. Brennan set it up, which was good because we get a chance to talk about the true meaning of Christmas. All the decorations are up now, the garland, the mini trees and knick-knacks. There are a few things that still need a little tweaking, but I am relieved that the big stuff is done, now to enjoy it and look forward to taking it all down.

Christmas Decorating - Phase II

2009-12-04T15:24:00.000-07:00

Tree #2 is up. I call this tree the Family Tree. There are ornaments on this tree that are close to 20 years old. It has a mish-mosh of ornaments that the boys have made over the years, we've received as gifts, we've bought because they were cute or had some significance. Last year I didn't put up this tree because by the time I got done with the 2 other trees I was tired. I really didn't think anyone noticed or cared until cute Ryan that is generally quiet pointed out after Christmas that he missed the 'family tree' and how it's his favorite. I felt so bad and guilty, but it made me happy that someone does notice and does care. So Ryan...... this one's for you! And thanks for putting it up and decorating it. You did an awesome job.

Christmas Decorating - Phase I

2009-12-03T14:45:00.007-07:00

Tree #1 is up with the help of my little helper elves. I love this funky tree. Ryan calls it the Target tree, as in Target the store. Ed, thinks this tree is very 'modern", whatever that means? I think it's fun!

Thanksgiving Holiday

2009-12-02T23:13:00.003-07:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday. This year, Ed's brother John and his family were here from Tucson. We had such a great time. We really love those guys. I wish I would have taken more pics, but sometimes I get so wrapped up in the moment that I forget to take pics. Everyone was busy doing one thing or another or participating in something. Our long weekend included Zumba, movies (2012 and/or Old Dogs), football (lots of football on TV or participating), boomerangs, 'man massages' from Brennan, Temple, BYU Basketball, shopping at Gardner Village and University Mall, skiing/snowboarding at Brighton, Wii bowling tournament, money extortion from Brennan, visits from the tooth fairy, food....lots of food!

The Callahan brothers & Family

The Callahan cousins: Ryan, Simone, Chad, Brennan & Natalie

New Moon Hangover

2009-11-20T08:36:00.002-07:00

New Moon hangover this morning. Round 2 tonite!

HaPpy BIrThDAy to ME!

2009-11-05T18:18:00.004-07:00

The best thing about turning 39? Is that I'm closer to 40! I don't know why, but I'm kinda looking forward to 40. It seems like such an accomplishment. Maybe it's because my 30s have been so hellish? We'll see, but my 39th birthday was very fun. Ed took the morning off from work, which was very nice, I had sushi for lunch at Happy Sumo, a steak dinner with the boys and cake and ice-cream with friends. It was Rylan's 13th birthday as well, so our family's got together to celebrate. Good times! I'm still celebrating. Earlier this week, Cheryl (my Ragnar buddy), Merrilynne and Christine took me to lunch. On Saturday, Nissa is taking me to lunch. Yay for birthdays!

My 39 year old self.

The Gang: Alex, Kenzie, Merrilynne, Rylan, Jaidyn, Emmy, Christine & Scott
Not in pic, but there: Kiki, Ryan, Paxton, Brennan, Ky and Ed

Yummy birthday cake for the girls!

Birthday girls

I Rock !!!!!

2009-10-27T02:01:00.000-06:00

So, in the last year I have discovered that I have a "bucket list". It's nothing that I have ever admitted or written down, but things that I have in my head about things that I want to do, pursue or try before I die. Most recently, I've been able to accomplish one of those items thanks to my new visiting teacher, Jessica. I mentioned to her on a visit that I really have been wanting to try rock climbing and what do you know? She is a rock climber! Score! She said they were going that Saturday and invited me to go with them. I readily said yes, but then got nervous because I wasn't sure I would be able to do it. I wasn't sure I was strong enough since I had been on hiatus from strength training due to concentrating on my running. Jessica didn't think it would be an issue because I practice power yoga regularly.
The following Saturday, Jessica picked me up and another gal, Judy and we went up to American Fork Canyon. Jessica is an amazing instructor. She really took the time to teach me the "ropes" (haha, I couldn't resist). She didn't do for me, she actually taught me about knots, terms, and answered all my questions. She made it look so easy, made me feel at ease and offered amazing encouragement. She praised my strength and abilities, which made me feel amazing. She said the yoga was definitely paying off. Pointed out that I had done a more advanced move, "a mantle" (look it up). I felt on top of the world, okay, on top of a big rock. I enjoyed it thoroughly and it is something I would really like to do more of. However, I did mention to her, that I may be a fair weather climber, because it was so cold!

Jessica, making it look so easy.

Spiderwoman, that's me!

Me again!

On my way down!

Annual San Felipe, BCN, Mexico Trip

2009-10-25T01:24:00.000-06:00

Three days after getting back from the Ragnar Race, we headed for our annual trip to San Felipe with my my parents and brother, Luis. As always, we had so much fun. We were very excited that Ed took time from his busy schedule to go with us. He was due for a much needed rest from the stresses at work. It was a little difficult for him to be incommunicato for 3 days, but I think it was good for him.

This is a jellyfish Ed fished out of the ocean. We put it in a bucket with rocks, after we had a good look at it for a bit, we released it back into the ocean.

The boys

Brennan's favorite activity: Hunting for crabs

Ryan's favorite activity: Exploring and taking pictures

Ed's favorite activity: Going out to the sandbar when the tide was low.

We also captured this crab in our bucket and observed it for a while. He was not very happy with us. Check out his defensive posture....and it's kinda creepy when they look at you with their beady eyes.

My favorite activity: Waiting every morning for the sun to come up. I'd sneak away from our campsite before everyone was up to take in the beauty. The pictures don't capture how magnificent these sunrises are.

The picture above is my favorite. The sun was starting to come up, you could still see the moon and a bright star/planet?

My brother Luis' favorite activity: Having fun with his nephews.

Ragnar Victory

2009-10-19T12:01:00.010-06:00

I have not had a chance to post about my Ragnar Relay adventure, because I have been crazy busy since I got home. I am still feeling a lot of excitement and energy about it 10 days later. It is such a mix of the most challenging thing I have ever done combined with the funnest thing ever (I must have a hole in my head). It is a very interesting feeling.
My top 12 memories about Ragnar Las Vegas:

The 11 friends for life that I have made through this whole experience: Cheryl, Melanie, Christine, Laura, Kellie, Tifany, Rachel, Libby, Jaime, Wendy and Lisa. I think you are all amazing! You are REAL women.
Boom Boom Pow

Laura and pumping. That is dedication.

Kellie hyped up on energy supplements, and a fractured femur! Amazing!!

My 3rd run, being 4.4 miles instead of 4 and wondering if I was lost and it taking me me over an hour because I had to wait through at least 8 traffic lights that took 2-3 minutes each.

Having to pee in a really nice neighborhood in Henderson and getting bit by something on my bum while doing so.

Melanie running her 3rd leg, just after spending a whole night throwing up. Way to go!

Christine and Cheryl's completely uphill runs!

At our 1st rest stop, just laughing, talking, everyone letting their guard down and being themselves.

The meltdown on Friday night. Not my most shining moment, I apologize for my less than civil behavior and language.

The confirmation that you can conquer your physical and mental limitations when you set your mind to it.

Cheering on and providing support for our other half of the team. I'm bummed we couldn't all be in the same vehicle.

Me, Laura, Melanie, Kellie, Christine & Cheryl at the start.

Me and Christine at the Finish!

Cute sign that Kenzie, Christine's daughter made and was waiting when we got home.

Celebratory cake that Ed made.

September Recap

2009-10-01T17:58:00.004-06:00

Birthdays
September is birthday month for both boys. Ryan turned 14 and Brennan turned 7. Time flies, it doesn't seem that long ago that they were both little babes. I enjoy these boys so much. They bring me so much joy. I'm not going to lie that it's joyful all the time. It's getting harder as they get older, it's mentally and emotionally exhausting, but very rewarding.

2009-10-01T02:25:00.001-06:00

Running like Crazy or Crazy Runner?
My September has also been filled with "pounding the pavement", or in my case, mostly "pounding the treadmill" which has resulted in a pounding of my poor body. I really had not let too many people know because then it would become too real and I was in denial about the craziness I had got myself into... I have been training to run in the Ragnar Relay Las Vegas in early October. The training mileage and time has really kicked up in September and I have been exhausted and a big complainer about how much pain I am in. These past 2 weeks have been really hard, with some serious doubts about my ability to do this physically and emotionally. I don't know what I was thinking?!? I am scared, excited, nervous, anxious....I am a jumble of nerves. My team is all women, mostly novice runners that I just met (except one person). I met some of them for the first time a couple weeks ago and will meet the rest the week of the race. Wish me luck and keep me in your prayers, I'm gonna need them!

2009-10-01T02:00:00.002-06:00

"Killer" Concert
In September we also got to go to The Killers concert with our friends Chad and Nissa. It was awesome. It was such a good show. I loved the energy of the crowd and that Brandon Flowers is a cutie. I think The Killers have made my Top 10 list of bands. Thanks Nissa for getting us the AWESOME seats, you ROCK!

2009-10-01T01:33:00.000-06:00

Lunch, Dinner and Dessert w/Friends
I feel very fortunate to have made some wonderful friends over the past few years. In September, I either got to lunch, dine or dessert with each one of them. I always enjoy the time I spend with them and the opportunity to reconnect. I feel especially lucky because I feel like this past month I reached new levels of friendship with each of these women and I love how our friendships have evolved. Each one of them has been there for me in one way or another. I feel like I can come to them with anything. In many friendships, I have felt abandoned, and you gals have stuck with me, in both good times and extremely difficult times. Kiki, Nissa and Christine, thanks for taking care of me! I hope I can be as good a friend to you, as you are to me.

2009-10-01T00:46:00.004-06:00

Bees Baseball
We started off our labor day weekend with a vist to the ballpark. I love baseball and there is nothing better than going to the ballpark on a warm summer's night, having a hot dog, spending time with the boys, letting them fill up on junk food and watching men in tight pants.
After the game, Brennan got to run the bases, which he was pretty excited about.
(check out Brennan in black shirt and cap smoke the other kids)

2009-10-01T00:40:00.000-06:00

Soccer
Brennan finished off his soccer season. This was his first year that he played and it was way fun to see him in action. He started to lose interest towards the end of the season, we are having a tough time finding something that he will stick to. I hope he will want to play next year.

The Perfect Remedy

2009-09-20T18:36:00.004-06:00

I had a 2 hour run yesterday and I was so sore. My neighbor Christine said I should take a bath and she brought me over some rum chocolate and an Apple Beer. Add an Epsom salt soak and a few Advil.....the perfect remedy. This is going to be my "go to cure" for what ails me.

Beat Beethoven 5K

2009-09-18T18:56:00.001-06:00

Last weekend Ed, my friend Christine and I ran in the Beat Beethoven 5K. It was way fun. I didn't beat Beethoven, nor did I expect to cause I'm very slow, but I had a personal record pace! Ed and Christine kicked butt!

MLS Soccer

2009-09-06T01:07:00.003-06:00

We attended our first soccer game in the month of August for my Dad's birthday. We (except my dad) had never been to a professional soccer game and all I can say is WOW! We absolutely loved it! It was so exciting. We were impressed as to how fast moving the game was and athletic the players were. I think we may become REAL fans!

My Dad's Birthday

2009-09-05T00:39:00.001-06:00

My parents were here visiting for about 10 days. It was really nice to have my parents here and to have my dad here for his birthday. Happy 69 & 70th birthday (Long story... he is biologically 70, but legally 69)!

Angie, Dad & Brennan

First Day of School

2009-09-04T00:34:00.000-06:00

Ryan, 8th Grade

Brennan, 1st Grade

Dreamy Chris Isaak!!!

2009-09-02T23:53:00.000-06:00

I have been wanting to see Chris Isaak in concert FOREVER! And this was the year. He was fantastic! Quite a showman. Love love love him!!!! I can go on and on about how incredible he was but then Ed would get jealous.

Ed & I enjoying our preconcert picnic.

Chris came out into the audience, look how close he was, I really wanted to smooch him and hug him, but I was too scared!

August Review - Thanksgiving Point

2009-09-01T23:43:00.000-06:00

We have had a super busy August, lots going on and I haven't had time to post everything. The following posts are an attempt to catch up on all our happenings.
Brennan and I took advantage of $2 Tuesdays at Thanksgiving Point. It was fun to spend time with Brennan and just hang out and do what he wanted to do. We spent several hours each Tuesday.

The Gardens @ Thanksgiving Point

Dinosaur Museum @ Thanksgiving Point

Erosion Table @ Thanksgiving Point

Lake Powell 2009

2009-08-14T00:43:00.004-06:00

Our annual Lake Powell trip was FANTASTIC as usual. The regular crew was there, Dale, Mary, Margy, Stephanie, Audrey and Renee. We had a new addition this year, Paxton (Ryan's friend and neighbor). Missing was little Dayna this year, she went to California instead. We had so much fun, hanging out, swimming, boating, tubing, wakeboarding, water skiing, kayaking, jet skiing, catching some sun, and doing absolutely nothing! Too many pics to post, but here are some highlights:

Renee, Brennan & Brennan

Ryan, Stephanie, Paxton, Audrey & Renee playing Mexican Train

Ryan's pimp kayak

Paxton trying to catch a carp. It was worth $10

The annual, "Let's see how many people we can fit on the kayak" event.

Paxton's 1st time up on water skis.

When the girls got there, they all got in the water and played a get to know you game since they had just met Paxton.

Hardcore fisherman, Paxton.

Paxton, Brennan & Ryan getting whipped around.

My favorite picture the whole trip...Brennan and his friend the Lizard.

Lake Powell 2009 - Ryan Wakeboarding

2009-08-14T00:10:00.003-06:00

Learning about Faith

2009-07-30T00:11:00.003-06:00

I have to post this cute story/incident before I forget. Yesterday, Brennan broke out with a little rash around his lips and cheek. It was suspicious looking so I checked his body. I told him I was checking for chicken pox. I told him if he got sick we would have to stay home instead of going to the Lake. I told him he looked okay, but that we would keep on eye on things.
I guess he must have been really concerned about it because that night as Ed was helping him get to bed and helping him say his prayers he told Ed he wanted a blessing. He said, I want the "oil blessing" (for my non-Latter-day Saint friends, Brennan asked for a blessing with consecrated oil - a Priesthood holder consecrates pure olive oil for its holy purpose of anointing the sick or afflicted). Ed proceeded to give Brennan a blessing. Ed recounted the event to me because I wasn't around when this was going on, but he said it was very special and an amazing experience for him as a Father and Priesthood holder. When Ed told me about this, I started to cry because I was so impressed that Brennan would know to ask for a blessing and also that Ed is able to give him a blessing. I felt so humbled by Brennan's faith, by the Priesthood Authority and the great blessing it is to learn from our children. I thought the teaching moment was over...
This morning when Brennan woke up and came downstairs, he was really bummed out and came right up to me and said,
Brennan: "It didn't work"
Me: "What didn't work?"
Brennan: "The blessing"
Me: "What do you mean it didn't work?"
Brennan: (pointing to his cheek) "See, they are still there!"
Me: (looking closely at his cheek) "Yup, they are still there, but they look a lot better"
Brennan: "Yes, but it didn't work, they are still there!"
We then proceeded to have a conversation about Faith and the workings of our Heavenly Father (mind you, I'm still trying to figure out the workings of our Heavenly Father). Regardless, what an amazing teaching moment for him and for me. I have no doubt that Heavenly Father gives us what we need, when we need it most and in the most inspired ways.

It was GRAND!

2009-07-19T08:43:00.004-06:00

A few weeks ago on our way back home from Southern Arizona we made a detour to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. The boys had wanted to see it "live" since they had seen it on TV. Ed and I had not been there since 1994. In 1994, our good friends the Ericksons (mostly Paul) had the brilliant idea of hiking the canyon rim to rim (23.5 miles). So Dena and I dropped the boys off on one side and drove to the other side to pick them up. This trip did not require any hiking and it was great to share it with the boys.

Ed and I (hanging on tight so I don't fall!)

Me & Brennan

The boys!

Me, Ed, Paul & Dena in 1994, the last time we were there.

Fourth of July, A Challenge & Big Thank You

2009-07-08T21:42:00.003-06:00

Our 4th of July and last night with our Arizona family was spent relaxing. Ed, John and Brennan were in the pool, we played billiards, picnic in the park with fireworks and just hanging out.
Natalie challenged Ryan to wear a "patriotic" scarf for the night and she would give him $10. Ryan needed some money for fireworks, so he wore the scarf.

Natalie & Ryan at the end of the challenge. Natalie is wearing her "patriotic" sunglasses.

The scarf...sorry Ryan for posting this..some day you'll thank me.

Picnic in the park.

Brennan working the glow sticks.

A big THANK YOU to John and Donna for their hospitality. They pretty much fed us and kept us entertained all week, even with their busy week of getting ready for the wedding. Every time we spend time with them, I wish we lived closer to each other. I just love their family. I especially love my sister-in-law, Donna. I like to think that we have grown closer over the last few years and I always value her thoughts, advice and support. Also, a big SHOUT OUT to Natalie! She is an amazing young woman, beautiful inside and out! I loved hanging out with her and going to Yoga and Zumba. Love you guys!!!

Callahan Family Pics

2009-07-07T21:27:00.001-06:00

Love these "boys"!

Desert Hike

2009-07-06T20:49:00.001-06:00

We were lucky enough to spend almost an entire week in Arizona with family. We stayed in the Rancho Vistoso area near Oro Valley where Ed's brother lives. Thanks to my in-laws, Dale and Mary for getting us a really nice condo for the whole week. We really felt like we were on a vacation. We went on a little hike in one of the washes the morning after a big thunder/rainstorm. Those desert thunderstorms are awesome.

Brennan sneaking up on a lizard.

Brennan's squinty "heat stroke" eyes.

Brennan and Ed on our desert/nature walk.

Beautiful Arizona....I want to live there!

2009-07-05T20:33:00.000-06:00

I love the desert! I am biased being that I grew up in the desert in California. I remember the first time I went to Tuscon and immediately fell in love with it. I told Ed I wanted to live there. My wish hasn't come true....yet!
Here are some pictures of why I love the Arizonan desert (Yes, I even love the HEAT!):

This picture does not do the amazing sunset any justice.

More Wedding/Family Pics

2009-07-04T21:01:00.000-06:00

I feel bad that I don't have any good pics of my sister-in-law Donna and brother-in-law Johnny to post. I'm sure Donna is relieved, because she loves taking pictures as much as I do. And Johnny was always on the other side of the camera taking pictures of just about every single meal we ate.

In-laws, Dale & Mary

Ed and Brennan getting funky on the dance floor!

Brennan , Grandma June & Ryan

Natalie & Ryan

Super cute picture of all the Cousins

Natalie (love this cute girl) & Ed

Chad & Simone's Wedding

2009-07-04T20:53:00.003-06:00

Last week we had the opportunity to travel to Arizona for our nephew Chad's wedding/sealing. It was so beautiful. I had not had the opportunity to go to a sealing in a very long time and I was so touched by the words of the sealer. I hope Chad and Simone recall all the great advice that was given them. I was reminded of how our marriages are entered into with Christ and that marriage requires lots of love, repentance and forgiveness. I was so touched and overwhelmed by the Spirit that was present and testified to the eternal nature of marriage.
The bride, Simone was beautiful. Chad was handsome. The reception and setting were awesome. The weather was great. It was so fun to spend time with family and friends and be able to be there for such a great event.

Great Blessings

2009-07-01T20:37:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago I got a phone call from my mom giving me some great news. Twenty-one years after I became a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints my dad has also chosen to be become a Church member. It was a wonderful baptism. I feel so blessed to have been able to witness the great power that the Gospel has in my life and the life of others. I can't say enough about it.

Father's Day

2009-06-22T00:17:00.007-06:00

I'd like to take some blog space and dedicate this posting to my Father, Luis. I can't say enough about how much I love this wonderful man. He is not perfect, but he has tried to be the best father that he can be, of that I am sure. He grew up without a father and at a very young age, he also lost his mother to cancer. My father didn't get any thing past an elementary school education, but always searched for knowledge. He grew up in poverty, but I've never heard him complain about it. He has always been an example to me of hard work, dedication and integrity despite hard times and trials. My father has been a "blue collar" worker all his life. In all my years of growing up, I never heard him complain to his children about the menial jobs he would do. He gently pushed me to be who I am and led me to believe that I could do anything I set my mind to. My father has always been a quiet man. When he talks we (my brothers and I) listen. I am so thankful that as each year passes, I get to know my father more and that I have the opportunity to still continue to learn and gain wisdom from my father.

Strawberry Days 5K & Kids Run

2009-06-21T23:56:00.007-06:00

Ever since Ed ran the Salt Lake Marathon on '08, Brennan has been really upset that we didn't sign him up to run the Kid's Mini-Marathon, so this year we signed him up for the 1/2 mile Kids Run as part of the Strawberry Days Festivities. He was so cute, because he has known about it for a long time and got some "running shoes" and started "training" with Ed. They ran to the park and back for several weeks as part of the "training schedule". He was so excited and I had no trouble getting him up early that day. Brennan did really well. There were 12 finishers in the Male 5 to 6 age group and 67 finishers in the race. His overall finish place was 28 and his age group finish place was 4. His time of 4:30.6 which gave him a 9:00 pace per mile.
Ed also decided at the last minute to run the 5K. He has not run in a race in quite a while, so he was excited about that. I'm sure he would rather I did not publish his results ;-)
I'd like to add, that I also ran 5K that same morning, 2 hours earlier, except there was no one cheering me on. I had a personal best and felt like puking afterwards. I was thankful that it was only 3 miles and not the 6.5 miles I ran the week before or the 8 miles that I "get to" run next week.
Ryan was home asleep while all this was going down. Smart boy!

Ed coming into the Finish Line

Brennan in the middle

My cute Runners

Strawberry Days Carnival

2009-06-21T23:38:00.004-06:00

The joy of living in the quaint little town of Pleasant Grove, Utah is Strawberry Days every June. The Rodeo, the Carnival, the Parade, the week long activites and the best part, the traditional STRAWBERRIES & CREAM!! Yum! I usually take Brennan to the Carnival myself during the day to avoid the crowds, but this year Ed went with us and we went with our neighbors the "J" Family and their cute younger kids, while Ryan and the older "J" kids went to the rodeo. It was super fun for the kids. It started raining, but we just kept going. Needless to say, we were drenched afterward, but we had loads of fun. Brennan was particularly excited because he rode the big rides with Ed.

The cute "J" kids. Love these cute kids.

Brennan is in the 2nd car with his hands up! Crazy thrill seeker!

Yeah for Ed for riding this crazy ride with Brennan. They said it was "way fun". It looked like a "make me dizzy and nauseous for the rest of the day" kinda ride to me.

Field Day

2009-06-21T23:23:00.003-06:00

What would school be without the traditional Field Day! Personally, I use to hate field day, because I always "stunk" at competitive things. Couldn't get any ribbons (back when it was still PC to give out ribbons).

Kindergarten Graduation

2009-06-21T23:14:00.004-06:00

I can't believe Brennan has graduated from Kindergarten. I can't believe he will be going to school ALL DAY next school year. It makes me so SAD. I think he is still a baby. He can't handle being gone all day....wait!!! I can't handle it.

Josh, Jake & Brennan

Brennan & Dad

Brennan and Mom

Brennan receiving is diploma from Mr. T, Principal

Catchin' Up

2009-06-21T22:04:00.005-06:00

I have been out of "circulation" for the past month. It has been a super crazy and busy end of May and June. We have been busy with end of school year activities. For the next several post, I will be catching up on the last 30 days. Some is boring stuff, but I gotta save it for the sake of posterity.

Summer Fun Begins

2009-05-20T21:33:00.004-06:00

Our neighbors, the Richins are fun, young and hip and the life of the street. Last year they had a blow up water slide which the kids enjoyed all summer. This year they upgraded for a much larger slide in order to include "grown ups" and on the first real warm day of the year, their yard looked like a water park and I have to say that the grown ups looked to be having a lot more fun than the kids.

Kiki and Pinky trying to stay out of the "line of fire"

Celeni, Teresa, Talina, Jennie and Charlene

not pictured but also in the water fight, Juliet and Shane

Mother's Day

2009-05-10T21:26:00.000-06:00

For Mother's Day, I wanted to go on a hike, so we went to our local Battlecreek Canyon. Our plan was just to go on a leisurely hike up to the waterfalls, but we just kept going up further and further. We kept saying "let's see what's up around the bend", our leisurely 1 hour hike turned into 4 hours. It was fun exploring. We want to do it again, but be better prepared next time.

What do you take when you move out?

2009-05-08T19:45:00.003-06:00

Yesterday, Brennan was having a rough morning getting ready for school. He was really upset at me that I wouldn't let him watch TV while he ate his breakfast, so he decided that he wasn't eating breakfast and told me he was leaving. He grabbed his backpack and started packing it. After a little bit I went into his room and we had a good talk and I got him to eat his breakfast, sans TV, get dressed and ready to go. I grabbed his backpack to put his school things back in and he had indeed packed his backpack for his move. I was so surprised to see what a 6-year old packs when he is moving out.
A jacket, basketball shorts, a pair of socks, a rubber frog, a lantern that makes a cricket sounds, some "spy gear", a little soccer ball on a string and a Whoopee Cushion! Who knew?!?

Date Night

2009-05-02T14:16:00.003-06:00

Ed has been out of town this week on business so we missed our date night this week. In his absence, I had a substitute date. Kiki and I had not had any girl time lately and we made up for it. We had so much fun shopping and at dinner. This is not the best picture, but we were laughing so hard because we had already tried taking 4 other pics that were not so good, so we gave up. Thanks for the fun time and let's not wait so long for the next time!

Panic about a Pandemic??

2009-04-29T22:00:00.009-06:00

Is anyone out there worried about the Swine Flu? I am usually not an alarmist and I feel I have a level head, but this flu situation really has me a little freaked out. I know there has been other things in the recent past, remember the bird flu or the flesh eating bacteria? I know that I should not fear, but honestly, I am a little scared and worried this time around. I've been trying to think of why I am so worried this time. These are some of my thoughts on my emotional state:

Over the last 18 months, I have learned to be more aware of and embrace my fears. I don't have to be strong. I can admit that I am scared and that does not make me a weak person. There will be people who will take advantage of your weaknesses, but that says nothing about you, it says something about them. It's okay to be afraid. You don't have to be a bad a$$ all the time to cover up you fears and insecurities.
I have learned that life is uncertain. Certainty is an illusion. In our quest for certainty, we often hurt others, ourselves and our relationships by trying to control outcomes and create the illusion of certainty. I am wrestling with the uncertainty of our future. Doubt is not a pleasant mental state, but certainty is a ridiculous one. - Voltaire
I don't feel prepared. I am not talking about temporal or spiritual preparedness (although I must definitely work on those as well). I'm talking about good ol' "I am not ready to die yet"! I feel that for the past 20+ years I have been living in "black & white". Right now I am starting to live in "technicolor", I want an opportunity to live in "Blu-Ray". I feel more alive than I ever have, I am not ready to give it up yet. I want "Blu-Ray" with my boys.

Spring Break Part III - Sego Canyon

2009-04-27T22:16:00.003-06:00

On our way back home from Colorado, we stopped in Sego Canyon, Utah and viewed the pictographs and petroglyphs. This is our 2nd visit to this area. I am again in awe of the different time periods depicted in these panels.

Spring Break Part II - The Country Life

2009-04-27T16:53:00.006-06:00

While we were in Colorado, we had some fun times. We also did some rednecky things (no offense). We went shooting (I'm still a good shot, so don't mess with me), Ed and I went on a 5 mile run to Fruit Growers Reservoir, we went on a walk with Dale and Mary to see the new irrigation system on the Vela Ranch (I learned a lot), we went swimming (6 laps in an Olympic pool after running 5 miles, not a good idea), Ryan and Paxton played racquetball, I read a lot of People magazine (guilty pleasure), ate a lot of yummy food (canceled out the 5 mile run and swim), Paxton and Ryan shot everything with their Airsoft guns, Paxton got his butt kicked in Scrabble by Mary, slept in every day (thanks for saving us breakfast Mary), had a bonfire and s'mores, hunted for snakes and frogs with Brennan, Ryan and Paxton rerouted the creek through the ranch (why?, I don't know) and so much more. Loads of fun!!!

Me shooting the Glock, I think Ed was concerned I was going to fall over

Brennan getting in on the action

Horses running inthe pasture, they look so awesome when they are running. Picture doesn't do them any justice.

Paxton and Ryan with their make-shift holsters for their Airsoft guns

Brennan and his friend Snakee

Paxton kicked everyones butt at shooting.

Ryan, check out his sexy boots and shorts look.

Ed throwing the clay pigeons, Grandpa Dale took a break after he threw one at the car.

I'm still a decent shot after 19 years.

Spring Break Part I - Black Dragon Canyon

2009-04-27T16:19:00.005-06:00

For Spring Break we headed to Ed's dad and step-mom's home in Colorado. We had loads of fun as a family and Ryan had an especially good time because he brought along his friend Paxton. We decided to take some detours and visit some of our old stompin' grounds. Here are some of our pics from our little hike in Black Dragon Canyon, Utah in the San Rafael Swell.

Paxton hiking in the canyon

Me and Brennan on the hike

The Boys, notice the pictograph above their heads.

Paxton and Ryan viewing the Black Canyon pictographs

Ah....Spring!

2009-04-15T10:01:00.006-06:00

I am so excited for Spring, especially after what seems like an eternal winter. Mother Nature can't make up her mind though. Two days ago its warming up and shorts weather, the next day it rains and today it snows. This is what the view outside my window looked like today:

Regardless, some of my favorite things about Spring are, Tulips, Blooms and Spring Cleaning. My Tulips bloomed this week, my Flowering Plum Tree is in full bloom and this week I have engaged in some serious Spring Cleaning. The boys have dusted the baseboards, I have dusted every single slat of our wood blinds, cleaned the inside of all the windows, moved the couches and vacuumed, taken down all the drapes, ironed, purged closets and too many other things to list. I don't love the cleaning, but I love the result of a clean home. It is such a great start to a great season.

My tulips and tree.

Livin' Life Joyfully

2009-04-14T20:43:00.002-06:00

I wanted to include this picture of Ed and Ryan to my blog for journaling purposes. These are my guys after getting back from the Priesthood Session of Conference a couple weeks ago. It just reminds me of how big Ryan is getting and how the time seems to slip away. I also feel so blessed to have two Priesthood holders in my family, I feel like one lucky gal.

Questions about Mom

2009-04-02T17:47:00.008-06:00

Two of my friends did this on their blogs and I got really curious as to what my boys think of me.....I had no idea. I added my own commentary in italics, cause I gotta have an opinion (thanks Heather and Cami).

1. What is something your mom always says to you?
Ryan 13: Hi
Brennan 6: I love you

2. What makes mom happy?
Ryan 13: Listening to her
Brennan 6: Cuddling with me

3. What makes mom sad?
Ryan 13: When you disobey
Brennan 6: When dad and you have an argument
Brennan's answer made me sad

4. How does your mom make you laugh?
Ryan 12: Telling jokes or farting
Brennan 6: Cuddles me too much
I so do not fart ;-)

5. What was your mom like as a child?
Ryan 13: Responsible
Brennan 6: What Ryan said

6. How old is your mom?
Ryan 13: Young at heart
Brennan 6: Uh, not really sure
I swear I didn't pay Ryan

7. How tall is your mom?
Ryan 13: Shorter than me
Brennan 6: Taller than me and shorter than Ryan

8. What is her favorite thing to do?
Ryan 13: Sleep
Brennan 6: Cuddle me
Ahhhh...two of my favorite things!

9. What does your mom do when you're not home?
Ryan 13: Be productive
Brennan 6: Work

10. If your mom becomes famous, what will it be for?
Ryan 13: Her opinion
Brennan 6: Cooking
Does it give you an impression I am opinionated?

11.What is your mom really good at?
Ryan 13: Taking care of her kids
Brennan 6: Cooking
Brennan must have been hungry because that is coming from a kid that eachs 10% of what I cook.

12. What is your mom not good at?
Ryan 13: Not taking care of her kids
Brennan 6: Nothing
Ryan wanted to point out that his answer is a double negative.

13. What does your mom do for a job?
Ryan 13: Customer Service
Brennan 6: Help people get their orders for their medicine

14. What is your mom's favorite food?
Ryan 13: Salmon
Brennan 6: Chicken
What??.. where are the shrimp, enchiladas, pizza, sushi, Panera, Chipotle, Tokyo Joes, Wahoos fish tacos??

15. What makes you proud of your mom?
Ryan 13: When she solves a problem
Brennan 6: Your cooking
I think Brennan was definitely hungry!!

16. If your mom were a cartoon character, who would she be?
Ryan 13: Sandy (SpongeBob)
Brennan 6: Kat (Kid vs. Kat)

17. What do you and your mom do together?
Ryan 13: Homework
Brennan 6: Cuddle
I need to spend less time with Ryan in conflict.

18. How are you and your mom the same?
Ryan 13: We're related
Brennan 6: We are in the same family
My kids are in denial...

19. How are you and your mom different?
Ryan 13: She is organized and I am not
Brennan 6: You prefer me to cuddle you and I prefer to play video games
Brennan is very confident in his priorities

20. How do you know your mom loves you?
Ryan 13: Because she is making us do this quiz.
Brennan 6: Cause you cuddle me alot and take care of me alot and when it's serious you try to make me listen.

21. What does your mom like the most about your dad?
Ryan 13: His muscles
Brennan 6: Because he loves you
I didn't think anyone noticed I liked Ed's muscles!

22. Where is your mom's favorite place to go?
Ryan 13: To her mom and dad's house in California
Brennan 6: Same as Ryan

My Baby Can Shake It

2009-03-31T15:55:00.004-06:00

We love the Wii Fit. One of my favorite activities is watching Brennan and unsuspectingly recording him while he is playing.

Put a Check next to Run a Race!

2009-03-26T17:51:00.006-06:00

I completed my first official race last weekend at the Canyonlands Half Marathon and 5 Mile Run in Moab. My friend Nissa and I had personal best. Super excited to have done that for myself. I have lost close to 20 lbs (I know it doesn't look like it) training for the race. Every single part of my body has hurt over the past 3 months with the combination of running, yoga and weight training. Thanks to Nissa for allowing herself to be convinced to do this and thanks Ed for coming to the gym with me everyday and slowing your pace on those Saturday runs.

Nissa and Me Pre-Race

Who woulda thought, me running!?!

Family Time for Free

2009-03-09T01:01:00.002-06:00

This weekend we had two family movie nights. We have successfully completed the Star Wars Saga and eaten our share of popcorn and Creamies. We also had a fun walk down Provo Canyon today. I miss the pre-avalanche Bridal Veil Falls. Does anybody remember the trout at the bottom of the falls? Ryan rode his Waveboard and Brennan shared his scooter with Ed. Lucky for Ed, and all of you, that I didn't post the picture of Ed purposely "mooning" me while he rode Brennan's scooter.

This is right before the "mooning".

It was windy down the Canyon, can you tell?

BIRTHDAY

2009-03-05T00:16:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ED!!! We love you!

How old?

Where did February go?

2009-03-01T15:45:00.004-07:00

Where has time gone? We have been so extemely busy, I am burning the candle at both ends and in the middle. Since our focus on Family time, we have really taken it to heart and have been instituting a lot of opportunities to do things with the boys, doing things as a couple and for ourselves. For journalings sake, here are some of the highlights of February.
BYU Folk Dance Ensemble - For Valentine's Day, we went on a Family Date. We went and saw the BYU Folk Dance Ensemble perform. It was a fun night and it got the boys exposed to some "culture" (if you call a bunch of BYU students performing folk dances from around the world "culture").

Peaks Jazz Festival - A couple weeks ago, Ed and I went to the Peaks Jazz Festival. It was amazing to see all that amazing young talent and see some of the best in the Jazz world perform. I wish I played an instrument! I wish we would have taken Ryan to the performance, I think it would have inspired his Trombone and Drum playing.

Family Movie Night - Over the last 4 or 5 weeks, we have instituted the Callahan Family Movie Night. This is where we watch a movie together as a family, no interruptions (okay not true, Ed has to answer his phone, potty breaks, snack breaks). We go all out with beverages, popcorn, brownies, ice cream, nachos, you get the picture. This has become a tradition for us, we look forward to it each week and I think the boys really dig it!!!

Gym - I have been working out really hard in preparation for my race in Moab in month. I've been at the gym Monday-Saturday. I also restarted training with a trainer to finish up some sessions I bought last year before my twisted ankle. Can I just say, I am in pain everyday. There has not been one day that has gone by that some part of my body does not hurt.

Jazz Game - Last Monday, one of Ed's business partners gave us tickets to his box seats for the Jazz vs. Hawks game. It was fun date night and an opportunity to visit with Ed's business partner and his wife. Can I just say that, "box seats ROCK!!!!" You do miss out on some of the energy that you get from sitting with the crowd.... But the view? The private bathroom? Comfy seats? Can't beat it!

Going once, going twice....sold on more family time!

2009-02-10T10:31:00.005-07:00

This past weekend in our attempts to have FUN for free and be frugal, we had a first! We went up to Salt Lake to an auction....at a real auction house. The now defunct Music School was selling all their stuff so we thought we would check it out. We didn't buy anything, but it was exciting. There was a lot of energy and it was pretty fun. It was ebay, only live!

We were close to the Utah State Capital so we went to the Utah visitor's center and walked around the State Capital. The boys had never been, I had been there one other time for a rally 14 or 15 years ago. It was so great to just spend time with the boys and walk around the grounds and see a truly beautiful building. I am sad to say that we really don't do enough things as a family. So after this weekend, we made a commitment to plan more excursions that cost little or no money. Stay tuned!

The Calling

2009-02-04T15:15:00.007-07:00

RULES:
1. Put your iTunes, Windows Media Player, etc. on shuffle.
2. For each question, press the next button to get your answer.
3. YOU MUST WRITE THAT SONG NAME DOWN NO MATTER HOW SILLY IT SOUNDS.
4. Have Fun

IF SOMEONE SAYS 'ARE YOU OKAY' YOU SAY....? "Wake" (Linkin Park)

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF? "Best I Ever Had" (Vertical Horizon)

WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN A GUY/GIRL ?"Dangerously in Love" (Destiny's Child)

HOW DO YOU FEEL TODAY? "Just Like a Pill" (Pink)

WHAT IS YOUR LIFE'S PURPOSE? "You're Still You" (Josh Groban)

WHAT'S YOUR MOTTO? "Lost in Love" (Air Supply)

WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU? "Faithfully" (Journey)

WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU? "Y'All Know" (Will Smith)

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VERY OFTEN? "I Feel You" (Depeche Mode)

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT YOUR FIRST KISS? "More than Love" (Los Lonely Boys)

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR BEST FRIEND? "Escape" (Hoobastank)

WHAT IS YOUR LIFE STORY? "Jesus of Suburbia" (Green Day)

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP? "Locomotion" (OMD-Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark)

WHAT DO YOU THINK WHEN YOU SEE THE PERSON YOU LIKE? "Three Little Birds" (Bob Marley)

WHAT WILL YOU DANCE TO AT YOUR WEDDING? "Papercut" (Linkin Park)

WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL? "Never Tear Us Apart" (INXS)

WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST? "People are People" (Depeche Mode)

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST FEAR? "Simple" (Collective Soul)

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SECRET? "The Lover After Me" (Savage Garden)

WHAT DO YOU WANT RIGHT NOW? "Side of a Bullet" (Nickelback)

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS? "Not Myself" (John Mayer)

WHAT WILL YOU POST THIS AS? "The Calling" (Santana feat. Eric Clapton)