the francom's

Birth Story.

2012-02-14T13:23:00.000-08:00

35.5 Weeks. The average gestation age of twins is 36 weeks. On the afternoon of September 14th, Brett and I went into our routine, weekly visit to the Dr. Bierer. He did our ultra sound and checked the heart beats. Baby A (Adrie) was still breech meaning we still had to do a cesarian section. Baby B (Bryson) had a 2 vessel cord (rather than the typical 3) through out the whole pregnancy. There are a number of possible complications but the most common is getting enough nutrients and growth. His growth wasn't comparible to the rate of Adrie's this week. He also had a heart rate that was concerning to the Dr. He checked me and I was dialated to a 3 and 80% effaced. (A week ago I had no progression, so this was a shock to me!) He wanted us to do a non-stress test to make sure everything was okay, and to check my contractions. The tech kept asking me if I "felt that" and a lot of the contractions I didn't really feel unless they were really strong. I had braxton-hicks contractions throughout a good part of my pregnancy so I guess I thought there would be a great difference between those and real labor ones.

The office was closing soon and the Dr. came to look at my test results. He was surprised by my contractions and still concerned about Bryson's heart rate. "Well, how does tonight work for having a couple of babies?!" He had us go to Ogden Regional (our hospital) and get hooked up for further monitoring. We drive over, and by now our hearts are starting to race. I am actually getting butterflies and anxiety as I write this, remembering that night. So right there, in our car of the hospital parking lot, I had Brett give me a quick blessing and we also said a prayer together. All I cared about was healthy babies. Good thing we registered a took the hospital tour exactly one week ago! We were planning on going to dinner and golfing tonight (I was in charge of driving the cart only). Small change of plans.

Brett called both our parents to give them a heads up just in case so my parents could start looking at flights out of Phoenix. (I was stressing, just a little!) I thought it was silly that Brett's parents were already on their 1 hour drive up. I was still in denial that this was all really happening. I got all hooked up to the machines and my contractions were getting stronger and closer together by the time our Dr. came in to check me again. I was already at a 4... He said "well looks like you are in labor and they are ready to come!" What?! So much for packing a bag or having my camera. Haha. The nurse told us we would have them within the hour, and we filled out some paperwork. In less than 1 hour we would be parents of two!

Brett met his parents in the hall as they arrived to borrow their camera and we ran into the operating room. They hooked me up to an iv and gave me a spinal. I was really nervous but felt the reassurance from Heavenly Father and Brett that our babies would be okay. I think the anesthesiologist was trying to make jokes like "don't worry, I've done this twice before"... I didn't appreciate the humor. I asked if I could watch them being born with a mirror, but they said they prefer not to let the mother watch. I would just have to rely on Brett to tell me all the details.
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The birth as told by Brett:

Once Kim was numb from the spinal, they made the first incision. There was blood running everywhere, and they suctioned, and cauterized. The smell of burning flesh was enough to make you sick. Then they cut through another layer until they were at the uterus. There was the main Dr, and also another Dr, so there were hands everywhere. They pulled out the first sack and broke it with a pair of tweezers. I couldn't believe how much water there was! I was trying not to look surprised so I could keep Kim calm.
The doctor reached his hand inside and pulled out this white slimy thing. At first I thought it was the placenta, but then it starting moving I realized it was Adrie! They turned her over and suctioned her nose and mouth and she starting crying. It was a pretty amazing moment. The doctor said she was smaller than what he thought she would be from the ultra-sound, so this made me nervous because Bryson was suppose to be even smaller than she was. They clamped the cord and cut her free and took her into the next room. They reached in and got the other sack and popped it. They dug inside and pulled out Bryson. To my surprise he looked the same size as Adrie. The doctor said they weren’t much different in size. Both of them were here and had all their legs, arms, fingers and toes. They took Bryson into the NICU and the doctors started taking out the placentas and sewing everything back up. From the time they first cut until they were both out was only about 6 minutes. What a wild ride. (Especially for Kim who was in major pain from the gas and felt like her chest was going to break open.)
After Kim was taken care of I went in to see Adrie. She was laying there with two nurses checking her out. They said everything looked great and I got to touch her little hands for the first time. I took some pictures of her and they took her to be with Kim. I went into see Bryson and he was a little less lively. His oxygen wasn’t quite where they wanted it so they were giving him some oxygen and they said he was doing great except for the oxygen. It was still a scary thought to know that there was nothing you could do but stand there and watch. I was able to take some pictures of him and say hi to him, but we weren’t able to hold him right away.
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I could feel them pulling and tugging on me and after hearing Brett's account of how rough they were and what happened, I'm relieved that I wasn't able to see everything as it was happening! While they were sewing me up, I had this incredibly intense chest pain and had a difficult time breathing. I thought I was having a heart attack. I guess that can happen when a lot of gas enters, and that is what I was feeling.

Brand. New. Holding Adrie for the first time before she was admitted to the NICU. I just held her and stared at her for two wonderful hours. Just me and her in my room. Meanwhile, Brett was with our Bryson in the NICU. I didn't get to meet him (other than the 1 second the Dr. held him up) until really early the next morning. It was killing me not to see him, so I forced myself to get out of bed and had Brett wheel me down the hall to the NICU.

Meet Adrie Ann (middle name from me, which I recieved from my mom)
8:03 p.m.
4 pounds 6 ounces
18.5" long

In most of our ultra sounds she had her arms up by her face when she was sleeping. That is still her favorite way to sleep. So sweet.

So tiny and so precious.

Daddy and his little girl. He looks so good holding a baby!

Meet Bryson J (middle name shared with Brett, for Janae/his mother)
8:06 p.m.
4 pounds 1 ounce
17.5" long

I broke my heart to see them have to have so many cords and tubes attached to them... Poor little guy!

My Mom and Dad arrived from Phoenix first thing the next morning. Here's Mimi meeting Bryson.

Grandpa Kummer and Bryson.

What an awesome day! We are instant parents of two! I can't believe how in love with them we already are.

A room fit for our Prince and Princess.

2012-02-12T20:42:00.000-08:00

Brett had a feeling he wasn't getting off very easy with just putting a coat of paint on the walls and putting a few cribs together. I mean, what does he expect when he is married to an Interior Designer?! I must say though, he did a beautiful job and executed everything exactly as I asked him. I absolutely love the way our nursery turned out. Brett installed my new chandelier that I absolutely love, along with a dimmer light, which is a must in a nursery. He painted the walls a happy buttery yellow, then applied a stencil with metallic silver to the accent wall, and then lastly painted grey and silver stripes on the ceiling. It sure makes getting up at all hours a little easier when you have a beautiful room. And beautiful babies of course. :)

We used a LOT of tape. Mack thought it was a ball and wanted to play fetch.

Not one, but two cribs to put together :)

His... (Mr. Bryson)

Dragonfly orb mobile I made for Bryson. They are so light and airy that they spin when you walk past them or when the air blows... So fun.

Custom bedding made by my mom ("Mimi) She made virtually everything in the nursery; she does BEAUTIFUL work!

And hers... (Miss Adrie)

Adrie's butterfly orb mobile I made for her.

Custom bedding and crib quilt made from Amy Butler fabric by Mimi.

I removed the origional hardware from the dresser and added some more unique/pretty ones. My sister, Katy painted the beautiful bird oil canvases. I love my glider!

Newborn, 0-3 size clothes only... Yeah, they are already so spoiled!!

Olive and Olivia the owls we made, along with the diaper stacker Mimi made.

Pee-pee t-pees my mom made for Bry guy. They are life savers! He knows how to go through the outfits.

You are my sunshine, my only sunshine...

You make me happy when skies are gray.

Two little birds :)

I spray painted a bird cage and used it as a tie and hair bow holder. My mom also made all the darling fabric blocks.

I just loved spending time in this room waiting for the arrival of our babies!

Awaiting the Arrival of our Sweet Miracles

2012-02-12T16:36:00.000-08:00

I'm back! Did anyone miss me? So I took 6 months off from blogging. I think I have a legitamate excuse. Twins have kept me busy to say the least! I will do my best to play catch up...

Brett and I had some pictures taken at 33 weeks of the pregnancy, 2 weeks before the twins arrival. (My friend at http://www.shellidamephotography.com/) I am so glad we did. For the most part, I loved being pregnant. There were a few things that weren't always the best, but I also saw them as a blessing. The initial morning sickness, while not exactly enjoyable, reminded me that there were two little people growing inside of me. I didn't go any where without cheerios or goldfish and had to force myself to eat so I didn't get really sick. This (and cottage cheese or vegetables, I know, strange cravings) was about all I wanted to eat in the early days. Not being able to fit in my favorite jeans or wear my wedding ring reminded me that they were growing. About this time, it was a stretch to get my poor feet to fit in flip flops. I'm talking MAJOR swelling. It seriously took three weeks post pregnancy for them to go down to normal! I would get really dizzy very easily. It was their way of reminding me to keep drinking tons of water and take it easy. I also slept (or tried to) with about six pillows so I was sitting up because the heart burn was so horrible. I swear, even drinking water made me get it. Charlie horses or muscle cramps in the middle of the night were a good time. There were so many things I loved about being pregnant though. Hands down, the best part of pregnancy... feeling the soccer kicks and boxing matches between the two babies. I sometimes really miss the little (and big) kicks. Listening to two heart beats and seeing two babies on an ultra sound was incredible. I loved when they got the hiccups. (Between the two of them I could almost always feel them). I love when Brett would rub my belly and talk to them. He made me feel like a princess and that I was as gorgeous as I had ever been. It was so fun to think about them and wonder what they would be like... who they would look like... One of the greatest blessings I have ever been given has been to be blessed with bringing two little miracles into this world! We have so much love to give. More to come on the two little people that have become our whole world.

We were showered with love!

2011-09-12T20:08:00.000-07:00

My friend Kellie was so sweet to throw me a shower! Here is the cute invitation:

It was so fun and great to see a lot of my closest friends. She made me the cutest formula cake (accented in grey and yellow to match the nursery of course)! We had chocolate fountain with anything you'd want for dipping, and cute mini cupcakes. I didn't get a picture with everyone, including my friend Holly, who also helped out :(

My cute friend Jill made these gorgeous afgans and little beanie hats for the twins. They were flawless, and I couldn't believe she spend all that time on us! They are so special and look amazing in the nursery.

Melissa and I - darling little outfits!

Brittany gave me the cutest matching bow and tie I can't wait to put on the babes.

Steph and I

My friend Ally, who I used to work with at Interior Solutions when I worked in Salt Lake.

Some of my Tai Pan gals: Leticia and Angie

Christina, (and her cute little man Cameron) who is a fellow Interior Designer I worked with at Interior Solutions.

Kell, Me and Camille. These gals actually work at Circle of Life Womens Center and I totally get special treatment every time we go in for a Dr. Appointment! Love them.

The aftermath of shower #1:

My sisters and Mom (along with the help of my aunts) planned another way cute shower for me. The theme? She's about to pop. Everything was centered around that theme - too cute! The colors were from my nursery accent colors: Tiffany Blue and Magenta.

She's about to {soda} pop. Root beer and cream soda.

Hummus pop 'ems.

Cake pops and popcorn... yum!

My sister, Katy took all of the cooking genes from me and is amazing. She made these delicious Popovers with an avocado sauce.

Lolly pop topiary that my Aunt Patti made. Adorable.

Table setting

Cute little clothes line with outfits and little bibs for the twins.

My mom made these GORGEOUS circle quilts I wanted for cribs. I love them!!

My sis, Amy got me the Petunia Pickle Bottom diaper bag I had my eye on, and also made these adorable little owl hats for her future niece and nephew. My mom and both my sisters have so much talent!

How cute are they?!

Not only is my sister Katy an amazing Chef, but she is also quite the artist! She painted these gorgeous, sweet, bird oil paintings for the nursery. They are so special. She also got the twins their tub and designer towels and washcloths so they will be set (and styling) for bath time!

My sweet Grandma Kummer, Aunt Cheryl and Terry.

Love this woman, she is the most generous person I've ever known. Her and my grandpa got us our double stroller!

My cute aunts and Mom.

All the cousins!

How cute are these favors? They say "thanks for popping by" and are attached to Pop Rocks.

The very next day, Brett's work threw him a surprise shower/party. They invited me so I could help surprise him, too. They had yummy cake and pies, and showered the Daddy-to-be with gifts!

Cute cake, I love this saying...

Cute little super hero swimming gear for baby boy. (we made him hold up all the cute clothes, just like girls do at showers) haha.

They gave us camo...

Camo... (look at that smile!)

more camo...

and yes, more camo! Apparently they know Brett all too well. I think our infants will have more camo than Daddy!

The day after this shower, was the Francom shower! Talk about a lot of fun - three showers in three days! Pictures on that to come soon...

Brett's Archery Deer Hunt

2011-09-12T20:03:00.000-07:00

The Comedy of Errors (as told by Brett)

It all started Friday night. We spotted some nice bucks feeding just before dark. I got up early Saturday morning and got set up on a trail leading into their beds. Sat there from 6am - 9am and the deer finally showed up. They came in lower than expected and got bedded down before I could take a shot. The 7x7 was bedded at 55 yards. Waited for 3 more hours in the hot sun with no water because I had left my back pack up the hill. After sitting for 6 hours, not being able to feel my legs, a little 2 point spotted me trying to reposition. I came to full draw as the 7 point stood up.... Put my 50 yard pin on his back, squoze the trigger but I didn't realize my cam was in a sage brush. The Arrow only made it half way to the deer. Talk about dejection. 6 hours of my life wasted because of a stupid sage brush. After re-grouping, I spotted some deer bedded in a patch of quakies. Closed the distance to 200 yards, took off my shoes, and an hour and half later was within 40 yards. Decent 4 point was laying in his bed. Came to full draw, shot, and the arrow hit a twig half way there and glanced in front of him. Deer-2, Brett-0.

Sunday Night

Spotted the same 7x7 high in the basin. Made a plan for Monday morning. I Got up early and got into the bedding area. Spent 3 hours watching the deer feed when they finally started around the hill toward me. I got set up behind a quakie and had a doe and fawn feed by at 5 yards. I finally saw horns coming over the hill. The 7 point and a big 2 point were coming straight at me. The 2 point was in the lead and I couldn't tell if they were going to go in front or behind me. I couldn't draw my bow because they were coming straight for me. The 2 point was 5 feet behind me, with the 7 point 15 yards behind him. The 2 point blew out of there, taking the big one with him. I ran down the hill with no shoes on and got set up as the deer came by 70 yards below me. I moved my sight to 70 yards, but they didn't stop so no shot. I Watched them bed down with some other deer and Spent 2 hours crawling through stinging nettle and creeping through rocks. Of course with no shoes on. Got to within 43 yards of a 24" four point. I drew back and shot, and the arrow sailed way over his back. The deer scattered and then settled down. I thought I must have ranged him wrong. Crawled in further and had the 7 point bedded at 40 yards. Drew back and shot, and the arrow sailed way over his back. The deer scattered and I finally realized I hadn't moved my sight back from 70 yards. Deer-5, Brett-0. Completely demoralized, I hiked back up to get my back pack and shoes. I called my dad, told him I was done hunting. At that same time, I saw deer coming through the trees in the bottom of the canyon. I ran down the hill, and had them 100 yards below me. They didn't know where to go, and they would run out of the trees, then back in, then out then in. Finally a little spike came running right at me. They closed the distance fast, and I barely had time to put an arrow on. I didn't have time to range. I came to full draw as a big 4 point came out of the trees. Somehow, one of the arrows in my quiver fell half way out, and was hanging from my bow as I tried to anchor and aim. He stopped, I put my 30 yard pin on him, and I let it go. It finally all came together. He only went about about 100 yards and went down. From the lowest of lows to the highest of highs... in a few seconds. That's how it goes with bow hunting. Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong. But every once in a while the stars align and everything comes together. Now I just have to find a way to convince Kim to let me hang it in the house!

My cousin Chris and me with our deer shot a few hours apart from the same herd.

Summer Fishing

2011-09-12T08:32:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite things to do is to enjoy the outdoors and get some sun and fish together. Here are some pictures of our many fishing trips this summer. Here we are bass fishing at East Canyon in June:

June Tiger Musky fishing

Brett would help me get the fish in if I caught it since they are pretty intimidating.

Show me your teeth! Brett was smart to pry it's mouth open to get a picture, right before it bit him :(

Brett had to convince me to hold my fish for a picture. It was kind of scary! It was the biggest one we caught at 40" Just sayin'.

Cat fishing on the Bear River in July...

Belly shot at 29 weeks.

One morning in July when we went to Pineview, we were the first boat out on the lake! The sunrise was beautiful.

Brett caught this musky on one of his first casts before the sun came up.

Cute little bass I caught on a musky lure that was as big as he was. I think his appetite was bigger than his mouth!

Brett's bass.

Brett had the chance to go on a guided fly fishing trip on the green river in July. Him and his friend Spencer from work took a client. Tough work - getting paid to fish! They had a lot of fun.

I love how happy Brett looks in this picture.

Brett's friend, Spencer.

August Musky, perch and bass

Brett's brother, Wade decided to fish with his son's "Diego" pole since the perch were so small. Pretty hilarious - I couldn't stop laughing!

Brett wins the award for biggest bass of the year!

Little crappie: (pronounced craw-py)

Beautiful Big Sky, MT and Yellowstone for the 4th

2011-09-12T06:41:00.000-07:00

Over the 4th of July Weekend, Brett and I took a little road trip up to Big Sky, Montana. My parents had reserved a cute condo there and we stayed with them. We went to Big Sky several summers when I was younger, so it was fun to revisit the area. (We didn't do any white water rafting this trip though... the twins can swim yet!) It was so beautiful though, as usual. On the 4th, we took a little drive with my parents into West Yellowstone Park. What a fun and American thing to do to celebrate our freedom.

The views from this waterfall were breath taking. My dad, what a good looking guy!

We stepped out of the car to see old faithful and just as we were starting to approach it, it began to errupt. Talk about good timing! We avoided the 1 1/2 wait that you can expect to wait between erruptions.

We were able to see several bison and other forms of wild life along the side of the road.

One of the many hot pots that can be found at Yellowstone.

Me and my cute mom.

The town of Big Sky had a bbq and concert the night of the 4th before the fireworks.

While in Big Sky, we of course had to enjoy some golf! I'm not sure if it had something to do with my center of gravity, but the twins helped me to play some of my best golf! Here we are showing the guys how it's done.

Me and my cute golfer husband.

Couldn't resist snapping a picture of Brett and my dad. They were (unplanned) twins on the golf course!

I can't pass up any opportunity for a s'more. Brett was sweet enough to make a fire for me one morning and we all had a breakfast of champions... S'MORES! Yum. I highly recommend it.

One morning we went on a little hike to a waterfall.

My parents and our dog Kemo, leading the way. My dad came fully equipped with bear spray since there are several bears in the area. In fact, we spotted them daily hanging out on the ski resort where we stayed.

My parents in front of the condo where we stayed.

Me and Brett. We were thinking how fun it would be to visit the ski in, ski out resort in the winter.

We spent some time relaxing on the deck, bear sighting and enjoying the gorgeous view.

Group shot! Thanks Mom and Dad, we had a great time!

U2 360 Concert!

2011-09-11T20:42:00.000-07:00

Back in May... (I know, slightly behind on blogging) we went to the U2 360 Concert with some good friends of ours, Holly and Landon. It was such a great concert, the best I've been to! The Fray, another band that I love, opened for U2. Here is the lead singer Isaac Slade:

Me and fellow prego friend Holly... we are due within a few weeks of each other! It's been fun sharing stories and experiencing everything together.

Me and my honey... He was just along for the ride. Not a huge fan of concerts and music like me, but since marriage is all about compromise and doing things for each other, he was {mostly} a good sport.

He even downloaded a lighter app on his iphone and waved his flame to the slow songs!

The main man: Bono! That guy still has amazing pipes and is such a performer.

The whole set and stage really was unbelievable and can only be appreciated in person.

So glad I got the chance to see one of the greatest all time bands in concert!

Second Annual Girls Retreat

2011-06-18T17:11:00.000-07:00

Had another great week with my mom and sisters (and my dad, too since he was invited to some meals, and a movie so "he could pay" as my mom put it. Totally kidding!). We had a blast shopping, spa day, pool time, going out to eat, nightly yogurt runs, and just hanging out. Here we are at the cutest boutique, ever. Katy Bug Faye. We have always called my sister (on the right) Katy Bug when she was younger and her dog's name is Faye. Pretty fitting!

One of my new favorite stores, "Modern Mommy" Why don't they have this in Utah?!

Just a few clothes we bought for the twins...

My mom signed us all up for a sewing class. We made "grocery bags" or little totes. It was tons of fun.

Finished products! They all turned out so cute!

Daddy with his pup, Kemo. (Short for Kemosabi, trusted friend) She would bark the entire car ride over to the park, she was so excited. We all went on a walk every morning. Well, my mom and sisters would run and my dad and Kemo would have to stay behind with Prego since I am "in a delicate condition" as my dad must have said 100 times. :) One day after shopping, half a bag of salty popcorn and sitting at the movies my feet/calves got all swollen like crazy! It was so funny. My cute sister, Amy, that is in PA school said I had "stage 4 edema" I think is what she called it. I didn't know that could happen so early but I guess I wasn't used to the 100+ degree weather. Anyway, I love this picture...

13 year old golden retriever still taking Dad for a walk! She's pouting because she can't go run with my mom and sisters. Haha.

Daddy with his girls

The girls

Not to forget this girl that we can't get enough of!

Pool time!

Total R & R... I really could just live in my parents back yard!

Sisters!

Went scorpian hunting one night with a black light and found this uninvited guest...

We made our flag cake on Memorial Day.

A trip to AZ wouldn't be complete without some yummy Mexican food!

Thanks Mom and Dad for a great week!

One boy, One girl

2011-05-18T10:42:00.000-07:00

We had another ultra sound yesterday... Can't believe we are half way there! We were able to see the "upstairs kid" this time as our Dr. puts it. :) Now I can start shopping and getting things ready! And maybe get more serious thinking about names. I will gladly take suggestions - we can't agree on anything. haha. :)

I can't get this song out of my head, it makes me tear up... It is so fitting for us right now in our life.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OnUEteN90hM

P.S. My music playlist is in honor of U2 and The Fray.... We are going to their concert with some very good friends next Tuesday! I couldn't be more excited. :)

"Babymoon" and Birthday in Vegas

2011-05-14T10:10:00.000-07:00

Brett and I took a little road trip to Vegas over my birthday. We wanted to take a little trip before I got too uncomfortable and since I'm already almost half way with the twins, we thought we better go! It was so fun just to get away, have no agenda, relax, pool time, awesome food (Brett helped me shell my crab at a buffet since I said I was going to eat as much crab as I could!), and of course, hit the casinos. :) With all the eating out, I soon learned to always keep some tums in my purse and eat a few right before I ate out. I can't complain if pretty much the only symptom I have with pregnancy right now is heart burn!

The Wet Republic Pool at MGM Grand... amazing pools.

They had a lazy river and Brett was just like a kid going around in it... I have to say, it was pretty fun.

We also stayed at Green Valley Ranch (a resort a little off the strip, I highly recommend it!)

Pool at Green Valley Ranch

Cheesecake factory on my birthday. Me and my tai lettuce wraps. Brett calls it rabbit food, but they are soo yummy. :) Don't worry, I ate a piece of cheesecake that we got to go for breakfast the next morning.

We went to Cirque du Solei's "O" Show. Even Brett was impressed. Which is saying a lot!

Brett giving it a go for 11 million!

We went hotel hopping which was actually kinda fun. We also stayed a few nights at the Wynn. Our first 5 star hotel experience. We splruged and got the top floor, it was so nice!

The Grand Lux Cafe at the Venetian, owned by Cheesecake factory so need I say more?!

The Venetian

The Wynn

View from our hotel at the Wynn.

The Wynn pool. One of their pools had European Style sun bathing. haha...

Went golfing at Angel Park Golf Club. Pretty course, lots of fun. When we were getting ready to tee off, the lady in our four-some asked if I was playing the black or blue tees... (for those of you that don't golf, they are typically for experts or men). There is no way I would tee off with Brett right now! haha. I said well, probably the red, (the ladies tees) and she acted a little funny but then we ended up having a good round together.

A little poker...

Great Babymoon!

Latest floral/wedding pictures.

2011-05-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

I posted some pictures from my latest wedding on my design blog. Feel free to check it out!
http://designsbykf.blogspot.com/

Update on the Twinners and Nursery Planning

2011-04-28T09:15:00.000-07:00

We had another ultra sound last week. We were hoping that we would be able to tell what we were having. The results? One little girl, and one little stinker that wouldn't uncross his/her legs. ;) The doctor was pretty sure the other was a boy, but not positive. I guess I will just have to wait three more weeks to find out what our other sweetie is and then... let the shopping begin! This week they are each the size of an apple - crazy huh?

Brett uploaded some videos of the ultra sound and also of the heart beats, which I just love listening to over and over. ;)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H0riARFTqmY
Heart Beat

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcrMOTjrN9Q
Ultra Sound (cut down from 10 minutes to 4 minutes)

Any experts out there? What are your guesses??!

I am having waaay too much fun planning out the nursery. Definitely one one my favorite Interior Design projects I've ever worked on! Here is my latest concept board that I have come up with. I just ordered the chandilier a few days ago. I think it will be perfect in my sheek/modern grey and yellow nursery. The babies are going to love it. Well, maybe they won't care too much, but Mommy's gonna love it! :)

Easter 2011.

2011-04-27T13:25:00.000-07:00

Every year, Brett's family has an adult Easter egg hunt. For money. Let me tell you, it's for real. Lace up your running shoes and be prepared to be knocked down by grown men trying to get ahead. Seriously, the first year married, Brett's sister was shoved down by her older brother and it resulted in tears at the starting line! It's really a good time though. I was so upset that I had to work and miss out on the party. Brett got lucky again this year... He got $100!!! Of course he is a sweet heart and is splitting it with me. Woohoo!! Thanks Gene and Janae. I think I will spend it in Sassy Babies. :) My parents also sent us a darling Easter basket full of goodies and of course some cute spring bandanas for our pups.

I made some little bird nest/Peep treats for my cute nieces and nephews and people at my work. Sorry guys, I was going to make another batch for friends and neighbors after work, but they take a little while and these twinners wear me out after a full day!

You are one of my favorite peeps! :)

Hope everyone had a great Easter with those you love.

Last Jazz game of the season

2011-04-18T22:02:00.000-07:00

We decided last minute to go on a date and see the last Jazz game. We went to our favorite Mexican restaurant, The Blue Iguana beforehand. We discussed how we wished there was one in Layton and then decided it was probably a good thing because we would both weigh over 300 pounds from eating too many Chile Verde burritos, Chimichangas, rice and beans, and guacamole. :) So good though.

It was intense, and I thought for sure we would lose, but we won! Woohoo!

Yes, I have become a bit of a red neck since meeting Brett...

2011-04-18T21:48:00.001-07:00

Call me crazy... But I love fishing. Minus the putting on the bait and touching the fish, my cute husband takes care of that. I love just being outside in the sun and hanging out and joking with Brett. It's so quiet and relaxing. Plus, catching fish is fun! We went to the Bear River a few weeks ago. I'm not trying to brag, but I thought it was worth mentioning that I again outfished Brett. :)

My new pink pole is lucky - it brought the fish right to me!

Brett's 30th Surprise Party

2011-04-18T21:48:00.000-07:00

Back in February I threw a little surprise party for Brett at his parents home with his family. I nixed the original over the hill theme, because I think it just would have been too much for him to handle. I opted for a fun party to celebrate him. I love this guy! Here he is with our oldest nephew by the dessert bar. One of the younger kids said, "Wow. Awesome! And it's all free!!" Too cute. :)

I adore my cute nieces and nephews.

And so does Uncle Brett.

Party goods. I had Costa Vida cater. Yum!

Kettle corn, oreo cupcakes, red velvet cupcakes, tuxedo brownies... Martha Stewart would have been proud. :)

Me and my sister-in laws and Mother-in-law.

Ice Castles in Midway

2011-03-29T09:17:00.000-07:00

Brett and I went on a little date shopping in Park City and dinner. Afterward we headed over to Midway to see the Ice Castles. Sorry the pictures aren't the greatest, I forgot my camera so I just used my phone. Anyway, they are man made using sprinklers. It was actually really pretty. Brett is always like Chevy Chase in his family vacation movies.... Remember when they get all the way to the Grand Canyon, and he's less than impressed? Everywhere we go, all the things we've seen, that's Brett. :) He went along with it for me though. I can't wait until we have kids so I have a better excuse to do fun things like this!

The bambinos in action!

2011-03-28T22:13:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kBNiFZh7GBE

Our little twins and their heart beats! Definitely the most beautiful sound I've ever heard! (Sorry you can't hear the audio).

Best Valentines Day. EVER.

2011-03-28T22:06:00.000-07:00

I know it's a little late... I wrote this over a month ago, but decided to wait to post until now. :)
It was a great weekend together! We decided to celebrate Valentines on Friday since it fell on a Monday this year. We ended up celebrating the whole weekend, and Monday too! Oops! Haha. Friday was the perfect day. We drove down to our dr in Sandy for our pregnancy blood test after doing IVF. We cheated and took an at home one on Monday. I was so nervous and couldn't bear the thought of seeing another negative pregnancy test... so I made Brett go look at it. He was probably only in there for 30 seconds, (he wanted to make sure he read it right), but it seemed like forever until he came out with the biggest smile on his face, showing me that according to the little stick, we were PREGNANT! It was an emotional moment for both of us, never feeling so happy. We've prayed and waited almost 4 years for this. I was still a little nervous about the blood test, because I knew that my HCG level should be at least 100 or it would likely end in a miscarriage. We waited a long two hours before finially receiving a call back from our nurse, Crystal... Our number? 750. "Anything over 500 is a good possibility of a multiple pregnancy, looks like you guys might be having twins!" Oh. My.

After possibly the best phone call I've ever received, Brett took me for a drive up American Fork Canyon. It is a special place for us. It is where Brett spelled out "Marry Me" with christmas lights on a canyon over and proposed 6 1/2 years ago... Timp is one of our favorite hikes... I was starting to wonder what he had up his sleeve. He surprised me with the ring I had been wanting! (I lost my first one). It is so gorgeous, I was so elated! I love that he is man's man, but he is also so sentimental. Love that guy!
We went to Tucci's, a little Italian place in Salt Lake, and one of our favorites. And a movie. All night I couldn't believe that we were really pregnant and that we could possibly be having twins! That day will be pretty hard to beat.
Later that weekend, I made him heart shaped french toast with nutella - yum!!

On actual Valentines, we hate going out because everywhere around us is a huge wait. I decided to surprise Brett and made him dinner. Roasted pork with thyme and garlic, pears, carrots, potatoes and shallots. Red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting. It may have taken over an hour longer than I anticipated, but it was delicious! My pretty flowers from Brett were a nice centerpiece.

Infertility and In Vitro

2011-03-28T22:04:00.000-07:00

*This post is not my intention to have pity or feel sorry for us by any means, just to share emotions and experiences that are very dear to my heart and educate people on the IVF process. Be warned, it's very detailed, because that is how I am and I want to remember the details. :)

Infertility is something I never really thought, until it affected us. We had been married for over 2 years when we decided that starting a family was right for us. After a year of unsuccess, we consulted with a specialist, who later referred us to the University of Utah to get everything checked out. We tried ovulation predictor kits, clomid, 5 IUI's... Still no success. After about 2 years we really started to wonder and question if we would ever be able to be blessed with children. It was easy to get discouraged and even at times bitter. Seeing people in our neighborhood have 4 and 5 kids was difficult. It seemed like for a lot of girls, all their husband had to do was look at them and they would become pregnant. Some times were worse than others, even seeing a pregnant woman, baby clothes, going to ANOTHER baby shower, or a small baby was enough to make me want to break down and lose it. We had someone recommend us to Dr. Hatasaka, head of infertility at the time at the U. He is very qualified and also an amazing person and doctor. We did a series of 10 tests, and all the results showed that everything was "normal" or unexplained infertility. You almost wanted them to find something so we would know if it could be fixed or corrected. We wondered if it was something environmental (power lines), etc. We tried not thinking about it, different techniques to help me reduce my stress and aid in sleep, accupuncture (which just proved to be very uncomfortable and not fun), all the old wives tales like hanging upside down after... you name it! We followed our Dr. who moved to Reproductive Care Center, in Sandy where we were excited to have the chance to take three more of "their own version" of tests that we'd already done... :) Toward the end of our testing, they were begining to suspect that I had severe endometriosis. (meaning the most advanced due to it being in my ovaries). Finially an explanation for everything! He explained that while our chances of success were slightly less with IVF, they were still much greater than conceiving naturally. Still feeling positive about IVF, we continued everything with prayers and faith in our Heavenly Father, amazing family and close friends, and most importantly, each other.

This was an early Christmas present. A giant box of shots! Woohoo!

For those of you that don't know... the in vitro process is very extensive. It begins with taking the birth control pill. I know, seems a bit counter-productive right? It is to help control and time everything perfectly. Then you begin a series of daily injections given in your stomach or legs to supress all your hormones. Yes, my husband is just about a pro plebotomist since he gave me shots every day for over 6 weeks!! Next, you begin the stimulation medications when your hormones are where they need to be with a blood test. (Lots of blood draws this month). The stimulation drugs basically help your body create as many eggs possible. Let me tell you, these are nasty little shots. Not meaning the pain, although what shots are enjoyable? I mean the hormones. They turn you into a complete crazy/emotional wreck! As if I'm not already emotional. Poor Brett. Can I just say though, he was a trooper. He couldn't have been more sweet and supportive throughout this whole ride. I think I'll keep him. You continue these, and mix a low dose of HCG until your ready to stop, according to your blood levels.

Here is what Brett used to mix up just one shot. (over $200!) Crazy, huh?

Dr. Brett. I think he actually hated giving me the shots more than I hated receiving them. Poor guy. He was glad when my mom came in town for my surgery so she could take a turn giving me the pain! (Lucky for me, she is a nurse that gives amazing shots).

The next step is the "Trigger Shot" which is actually an exciting shot! After several ultra sounds, the dr. decides when the follicals are ready to "harvest" or to "retrieve" the eggs. Once they are ready, you take a high dose of HCG, exactly 35 hours before your surgery to retrieve the eggs is scheduled. The morning of the surgery I was really nervous. Not for the actual surgery, I just wanted there to be some healthy eggs. My mom and Brett waited in the waiting room and said I was only out for about a half hour. Good news, they got 19 eggs! (I guess I asked them this several times before the Versed/anesthesia wore off. haha). Oh my gosh, we were elated. I guess the average is 5-8 so we felt very lucky. Brett made his contribution and our little embryos were off to the races. They called us the next day to tell us that out of the 19 eggs, 17 were mature enough to fertilize, and 16 fertilized into healthy embryos. So ideal!

I am soo greatful to my mom (and dad for being supportive and allowing her) to fly up to stay with us, cook us yummy food, buy me a new pair of jeans since all my others were freakishly tight that week, and treat me like a princess when I felt really crappy. Also, to all my family and their sweet texts/e-mails/calls, and cute best friends for the incredibly thoughful care packages. Not to forget my amazing husband who was still my rock and by my side through all the drugs and craziness. It seriously meant the world to me!

After retrieval, you start daily shots of progesterone until 10 weeks pregnant. These are intramuscular, and happen to be very unpleasant. (Think tetanus shot, but worse).
We waited 5 days for our little embryos to incubate and grow to become blastocytes so they are ready for implantation. But not all of the remaining 12, don't worry! On the day of the transfer, they suggested which 2 embryos looked the most healthy. Since they all look like little bubbles to us, we definitly trusted the embryologist! The remaining 10 would be frozen. It was pretty exciting to be able to watch the process - a very special and emotional moment. They showed us the little "bubbles" under a microscope and sucked them up into a litte tube and transfered them from their little petri dish to their new home in my uterus. For at least that day, we were officially pregnant! What a whirl wind of an amazing process. Check it out, our first baby picture, our little embryos! Aren't they cute?! :)

Me and my love.

My mom, and best friend (besides Brett, of course)

Now for the dreaded two week wait for the blood test...

Ray Mine, AZ

2011-02-15T07:39:00.000-08:00

In December when we were in Arizona, we went on a little drive to check out my parents first house, and my dad's first job. We stopped at Dariy Queen, one of the many (kidding) eating establishments in Superior. It has got to be one of the originals remaining! They said nothing much has changed in the town...

Mine Overlook. It is impossible to get the whole mine in one shot, the scale is massive.

We had the best tour guide (my dad) as he told us how they processed everything. I was amazed by how much dirt they had to haul to get a small amount of copper.

Me and my mom standing in front of the mine and "Teacup" mountain.

Big equipment!

We continued on to the next town, Kearny, which is where they actually lived. Cute little town, much nicer than Superior. It was so fun to see their humble little first home, the tiny hospital my mom worked at as a nurse (and delivered her first baby on her own), and one of the first places they were when they started out.

New Years Eve!

2011-01-07T08:17:00.000-08:00

NYE was a great day. Brett wanted to go golfing, but I am a fair weather golfer and it was soo cold! So, we sent him off with my dad's cart heater and my mom and I were left with no choice but to go shopping. :) Does anyone else feel like Sephora is a candy store? I could spend hours in their looking at all the fun and beautiful makeup. Later, we all went out for a really yummy dinner followed by going to a Sun's game. (which they won!) Me and my parents:

Pregame warm-up.

Orange guy, never misses a game.

I had to include a picture of our usher. This guy was almost as entertaining as the game. No flash photography (hello, EVERYONE in the arena is using flash photography!). No moving over to the next seat after halftime because "there are people coming for those seats". No standing in the isle longer than two seconds...etc. Let's just say he is the most vigilant usher there ever was.

Steve Nash and Grant Hill. They killed it!

My love.

After the game, we had treats and went in the hot tub. It was so nice of Cardinals player Darnell Dockett to put on a great New Year's firework show for us to watch while in the hot tub! (Not that we know him. You should google him. He's HUGE. I would never want to run into him in a dark alley, haha). Anyway, here's to a new year! I am so excited about what 2011 has in store for me and my little family.

Christmas with The Francom's

2011-01-03T20:23:00.000-08:00

One of the great things about being married, is you get two Christmas's. Since we were in Arizona with my family for Christmas this year, we had a special little Christmas gathering with Brett's parents at their beautiful new home. It was so nice to have an amazing home-made meal (I have been slacking in this department), and just spend time together.

Brett got this deer cart from his parents and took me for a spin around his parents home! Kinda fun! :)

Just playing around.

2011-01-03T07:44:00.000-08:00

We decided to play some tennis, too, while in AZ. It was chilly but fun! Here's Amy and Jerrick...

Josh and Katy

Brett and me.

Shooting skeet.

2011-01-02T20:51:00.000-08:00

While in Arizona, we drove to a skeet practice range, which was a lot of fun. They had many various stations you would go to.

The girlies. We make those protective eye wear look good!

Me and my guy.

Amy and Jerrick. Once we figured out Amy was right eye dominant and she switched sides, she hit pretty much every skeet!

Josh and Katy

Don't mess.

Our men.

Brett giving my mom a little lesson... There was a "rabbit throw" that went fast and low to the ground. I heard her shoot twice and saw dirt and things flying up like crazy and thought she smoked them. I guess she missed... but other than that she did awesome! :)

Brett the "pro".

I had so much fun, I might have to get my own gun to shoot with. (Just targets not little creatures, I will leave that to Brett). Do they come in pink?! :)

Christmas in Arizona!

2011-01-02T15:04:00.000-08:00

This year all the sisters gathered at my parents home in Arizona for Christmas. Brett and I got to stay for an entire week - it was so relaxing and fun! We spent lots of time playing games, eating great food, nightly dips in the hot tub, movies, tennis, shooting, golf, watching bowl games... More posts to come on all our fun. Thanks again Mom and Dad for everything and being such great hosts!

The girls.

Me and my honey.

My Mom's beautiful tree. And a few presents.

Christmas tornado!

Dad accidentally opened one of my Mom's presents. Oops! This is what happens when you have waay too many presents everywhere!

Mr. Brett got new irons from Santa and just had to go try them out on Christmas.

Amy got just a few scarves... :)

Me and my daddy.

You had to fight me for this spot! :) When we get our next home, this is a must on my list.

Hope you and your family had a wonderful Christmas!

Holiday Greetings and Anniversary

2010-12-16T08:13:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe another year has come and gone! Each year of our marriage just gets better and better as we approach our 6 year mark tomorrow. God has given us so much and have so much to be thankful for in our lives. Thanks for being such the perfect guy for me and being so supportive and loving of me in all I do. I know we can get through any trial together and I wouldn't want to experience trying to figure out what life is all about with anyone but you. I'm excited to see what the rest of my life with you has to offer. I'm a lucky girl to have you - I love you babe. Happy Anniversary!

Jazz vs. Heat!

2010-12-15T08:21:00.000-08:00

We got lucky and scored some of Brett's work season tickets to the Jazz/Heat game!! I was elated.

Amber and Spencer (The two of them and Brett had fun cheering against me and my Heat, but I had the last laugh when they won! The Jazz are still a close second for me though. I'm just glad it was mostly a good game).

I still love the bear! Some day I will get my picture taken with him. :)

LeBron's pre-game powder ritual.

D Will will always be a stud in my book.

I love me some Dwyane Wade, always!

One final shot of my man LeBron. I know I'm from Cleveland, but I still love you!

Holiday Decorating

2010-12-05T13:33:00.000-08:00

I have been having fun working at Tai Pan and helping people pick out things to decorate their homes for Christmas. I did a new design for my tree this year so if you want to check it out, go to my design blog and see pictures and how-to tips! http://www.designsbykf.blogspot.com/

Pheasant Opener

2010-11-07T17:22:00.000-08:00

This made getting up early all worth it! This was one of the most beautiful sunrises.

Me and my mom! Thanks for going on our adventure with us.

Mack, Brett, Bella

Brothers Wade and Brett, along with the pups Bella, Mack, and Gauge.

My little hunter/gathers... Mack looks like he's about ready to die, they ran so hard to find the birds! Bella wouldn't wag her tail the rest of the day because it was so sore from wagging it too much I guess. haha. I'm glad they did a good job - we had this little guy for Sunday dinner. I usually don't get too excited to eat most of the critters they bring home for me but, I tried a new recipe involving cream cheese and it was delish!

Halloween Fun

2010-11-01T12:39:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun this Halloween with our costumes! Here we are at our friends party dressed as Tiger Woods and his (now ex) wife Elin. I've got my 9 iron... he'll never cheat on me again! haha.

Happy "Hangover" Kellie and Kyle -Hilarious! (You have to have seen the movie; They were great hosts of the party. Thanks guys!)

Dustin and Camille

Pups in their cute Halloween bandanas that "Grandma and Grandpa" sent them.

Mack is totally glaring at me...

Mack and Bella (frog prince and Miss Piggy). This is about as good as it gets for a picture of both of them in costume. They were running around like crazy - I don't think they loved the me too much. haha.

I made these cute mummy pops with my sister-in-law and niece. (chocolate covered oreos, yum!)

We had fun visiting all our cute nephews and nieces in Highland and saw them all in costume. We weren't able to make it up to Williard to see our other nephews since they had the flu, but I saw a picture of their 3 year old as the big bad wolf and the little twin babies as the little piggies. Possibly the cutest picture ever. (I will respect them and refrain from plastering pictures of all their cute kids on the internet since I don't think they would approve, but they were all so cute!) Well, maybe just one with a few of the boys and Uncle Brett, since you can't really see their faces. They are the cutest football players I've ever seen! :)

I love Halloween!

Deer Widow Weekend in Park City

2010-10-27T23:23:00.000-07:00

I had a blast with my three sister-in-laws and mother-in-law at the Canyons Resort in Park City last weekend. We stayed up late just chatting, went hot tubbing, worked out, out to eat, and of course, shopping at the outlets!!! No joke, we got job offers at one of the stores because of our excessive time spent there. Kiiinda embarrassing. Here is me, Michelle, and Gina holding a small sample of the damage we did. I also converted everyone to Harry and David's "Moose Munch", my personal favorite, hence the hats. haha.

Nice racks! haha.... Well, they were better than anything our husbands got on the hunt! Sorry boys, the truth hurts. Thanks so much again Janae for treating us to the condo, it was such a fun girls weekend!

Nightmare on 13th.

2010-10-17T11:11:00.000-07:00

Went there last night with some friends (The Scott's). I can't remember the last time I went to a haunted house, it was fun. Good thing Brett was there to make me go first and push me into the creepy people since I'm not already jumpy! haha. I love Halloween!

Thriller!

2010-10-11T09:26:00.000-07:00

I went with a big group of girls to Odessy Dance Company's Thriller. It was such a great show! I love dancing, and I love Halloween.... I think I will have to make it a yearly tradition. If you've never been, you probably should go. :) I already can't wait to see it again next year.

A few of the girls {Me, Kellie, Creeper, Camille, Kayla}

{Creeper, Alysa, (me), Kellie, Camille}

Before the show, all a lot of the dancers are just wandering around the lobby jumping up and scaring you. The first one came from behind me and almost gave me a heart attack! (If you somehow didn't know this about me, I'm VERY jumpy! Brett, being the sweet husband he is, likes to take advantage of this fact frequently at home).

{Creeper hanging out}

Thriller (a link to see a highlighted promo of the show!)

Gev (From So You Think You Can Dance, he is a truely talented breaker from Utah! He did a solo to Ghostbusters that was so fun. You have to click the link and check out his video.)

Duck Hunt Opener

2010-10-02T15:02:00.000-07:00

Brett had the time of his life getting up at 5:30 to go out on the duck opener. (Does that even sound remotely fun to you?) It was him (and our pup Mack), his cousin Chris (and his dog Duke) and his brother Wade in the canoe. Every time a gun would go off across the marsh, the dogs would go crazy to try and retrieve. They almost flipped the canoe about 10 times while they were paddling out to their spot. I almost wished I would have gone along just to get a video/picture. The mental image is still pretty hilarious. Macky only retrieved a few decoys this time, mostly real birds! He's catching on. He swam his little heart out just to get a duck on the opposite side of the marsh.

Proud Mack. Um, I think you have a feather in your teeth... And oh the burrs.

I can't even tell you how many burrs were in his fur!

This dog LIVES for a game of fetch. Seriously. (p.s. don't you love our "trail" in our lawn?)

I just had to include a picture of Brett's white trash canoe! I love that it is longer than his truck. Thankfully, he took it to his hunting spot and I hopefully don't ever have to see it again! haha.

Futura Leadership Dinner Snow Basin

2010-09-27T09:54:00.000-07:00

Brett's company does a dinner every fall at the top of Snow Basin for all the leaders of the company. It was fun to get all dressed up and the food was delicious. Here we are going up the gondola... Last time we were doing this we had our snowboards and there was snow everywhere! The view is gorgeous.

{The Girls: Brooke, Kim, Kellie}

{Jared and Jamie}

{Brant and Ashley} He did a dance dressed as Napoleon Dynamite, and won a vacation - it was hilarious!!

{Ken} (VP of Sales, Brett's boss)

{Lacie and Jon}

{Rico Suave!}

{Rob and Krissy}

{Sal}

{Spencer and Amber}

{Sue and husband} CEO

{Suzie and Dale}

Me and my honey!

I thought you were supposed to leave your kids at home?! Silly boys.

{Austin, Brett, Kyle}

Thanks for all the hard work you do for us, babe. I love you!!!

Cute singing cowboys.

2010-09-25T09:59:00.000-07:00

Last concert of the summer! :( Brad Paisley and Darius Rucker (remember hootie from hootie and the blowfish?) with some really good openers. I had a blast dancing the night away with Brett and my cute sister-in-law Gina and brother-in-law Travis. We met at The Old Speghetti Factory and then headed over to the concert. Here are a few pics from the night.

Gina and I watching Steel Magnolia perform at the pre-show. That lady can sing!

P.S. I really want a pair of those overalls for Brett to wear! Niiice.

Brett is a happy guy with his cotton candy! haha. It's a concert tradition.

Gina and Travis

Brad came back to sing to us at the "cheap seats" because that is where he was when he went to concerts. He did not disappoint. He is rediculous on the guitar. He has an album of just instrumental guitar solos. Brett and I saw him perform at the fair six years ago the night before we got engaged! He sings one of our songs, "Little Moments".

I know the sound isn't the greatest on my camera, but in case you are jealous you missed out on him serenading you, here ya go!

Such a fun night! Thanks for going with us Gina and Trav!

Don't mess with Texas

2010-09-22T16:56:00.000-07:00

The only state (that I've seen) where the state flags are more abundant and hung as high as the national flag.

I had a blast with my mom, sister Amy, and her hubby Jerrick over a long labor day weekend. It was so nice having them in Utah, but I'm thankful that I can jump on a plane whenever I go through withdrawals from not seeing my family. It was the first weekend she didn't spend studying for P.A. school so we had fun "showing them around" the Houston area.

We went to the beach at Galvaston and attempted to skin board. It was so much fun. Jerrick was really good! He gave us all lessons. I got some pretty good sand burns on my knee and was the entertainment for all the spectators at the busy day at the beach. I finally kind of got the hang of it after a while.

We try to eat all the Sushi we can when we are away from the boys! Yum.

Jerrick works at Flemming's so we got hooked up with his discount. It was amazing as usual.

I was in heaven looking at all the charming and unique housing developments. There were a lot of colonial and georgian style houses - so much character! And the landscaping? It was all pristine. Someday I hope to say the same for my neighborhood! :)

We spent one day literally shopping until our feet were too sore to go on. For a minute I thought it was black friday. Jerrick's words, "so you guys were really shopping for like 9 hours?". haha.

Thanks for a great time Amy, J, and Mom. We missed my sister Katy I am so glad her and Josh are back in Utah now. Can't wait for my next girls adventure!

Softball, Summer Fun

2010-08-05T23:05:00.000-07:00

We had our 3rd annual bbq and fireworks in Bountiful with our friends Holly and Landon. Holl's parents pretty much adopted us and we just show up every year now. They are the nicest people and we love them!

Another night with the Smith's, we went to Speed Street! (higher speed go-kart racing). I am already looking forward to going again! It was sooo much fun. Except for the part when a guy tried to cut Brett off and pass him and his car was chilling out on the other guys leg! He was pretty upset but I guess he was ok?!

1st and 2nd Place! (not really... but next time! Watch out boys.)

I debated and debated over mentioning the fact that Brett's softball team played in the St. George Heat Stroker Tounament. Have you ever had the feeling you were watching a Jr. High team play a major league one? Don't get me wrong, it's not that I'm not proud of their effort! It was a bit of a rough night for the guys. They were 0-4 on their games that lasted all night with their worst score being 3-26... Brett was the only pitcher not wearing a full face mask. Who does that in softball?? Well, this picture pretty much sums up how it went! (Yep, the sun is coming up again! The rest are sleeping over by some picnic tables). At least we got to play at the pools the rest of the weekend!

Better start practicing for next season starting now!

A lil camping/biking adventure

2010-08-05T22:42:00.000-07:00

We had a good time with some friends on an overnighter camping trip by Williard Peak. It was gorgeous.

We brought our dogs... our poor friends...

{Kyle, Austin, Brett} Their boy scouts paid off and we had a fire going in no time.

Aparently, we think we are professional mountain bikers. We all ended up having to walk out bikes around some cliffs that I'm not sure ANYONE, let alone us could maneuver around. We saw several herds (is that what they're called?) of mountain goats while biking in their terrain. It was so cool to see them up close! At one point when we looked up, their was a larger one and then a baby standing right above us. Probably thinking "what are they doing trying to bike up this?" haha.

Kyle managed to snap this beauty RIGHT after we did a long uphill climb. Sexy. It makes me laugh!

How cool is it that I had a snowball fight in July?!

Not sure what to put as a caption here?:

{Brooke, Kellie, Kim} We made it!

Mt. Ogden Peak

Tim McGraw and Lady A!

2010-08-05T22:05:00.000-07:00

We decided last minute (and by that I mean Brett finally gave in) to go to Tim McGraw and Lady Antebellum. After waiting in the line of traffic on the single lane road, and then in will-call for well over an hour in 95 degree heat, we missed most of the opening act (Lady A). Good thing we saw them last year when they opened for Kenny! Ha. Seriously though, Usana, get on board and e-mail tickets to customers! Once we got past that frustration, it was a really fun concert with a lot of energy. Plus, we love all the people watching. You get a lot of real classy people at country concerts. :)

Lady Antebellum - love them! They are starting their own tour beginning this fall.

Seriously though, Tim makes 43 look good baby!!

Thanks for a fun date babe! Brett said Tim's song "It's a business doing pleasure with you" (on my playlist on the right), reminds him of me?! I don't think I'm THAT bad... am I?

A to the Z

2010-06-29T08:18:00.000-07:00

With a little coordination, we (us three sisters) met in Arizona to surprise my dad for Father's Day. It actually worked out so we all arrived at different times, so it was like three heart attacks for him. It was so much fun I have to say! My dad is amazing. He has the biggest sence of humor, is intelligent, generous, witty, and has a huge heart - he loooves his girls. It was a blast hanging by the pool and just spending time with family.

If you like pina coladas... Yum!

We did some grilling. Love summer.

Sisters in our matching shirts Amy brought back from her recent trip to Italy. I love these girls!

Sothern Utah

2010-06-15T12:10:00.000-07:00

Brett and I did a southern Utah trip for about a week over memorial day. It was such a great vacation - we would get up early to do hiking/mountain biking before the heat and then jumped in the pool at our hotel in the afternoon. {A warning right now for the picture overload}. We started our trip in Bryce Canyon. It was so gorgeous in person - if you haven't had the chance to go you probably should. Here is Thor's Hammer, a popular landmark at Bryce.

We rented some sweet bikes (over 3K ea!) and went to Gooseberry Mesa (near Zion) for some mountain biking. We did the North Rim and the part of the South Rim trail. Having never been mountain biking before, it was definitely a challenge! (We heard that it was a challenge for experienced riders). There may have been a moment that I threw my bike down in a bush and pouted after Brett tried to give me a few tips on the gears. Haha. It was gorgeous though and once I got the hang of it, I loved it. It's amazing how steep some of that stuff is and you can just keep peddling up it. I thought for sure I would kill myself a few times. I would without a doubt wear those sexy padded spandex shorts next time though, our butts were sore for a week!

Of course we had to golf while we were on vacation... This is Coral Canyon Golf Course. It was such a fun and pretty course.

Brett making his birdie putt.

My ball seriously bounced 2 inches from the hole on this tee shot!

No, I'm really not that good, just all luck.

Zion National Park was gorgeous too. We did a loop hike to the 3 emerald pools, which was easy and fun. We were planning on doing the narrows hike (up the virgin river) but the water lever was too high due to all the rain and run-off so it was closed. Maybe we will have to go back in the fall! In these pictures, you can see the little falls which are from the sandstone "sweating" after absorption from the rain. I thought that was pretty cool.

While in Zion, we did the Angel's Landing Hike. (My new favorite) It's not for kids or anyone remotely fearful of heights. There were a lot of people that stopped before the last half mile, which is the hardest part since it goes straight up... They were really be missing out! I've been on some tough hikes since knowing Brett, and there were a few times that I was glad Brett was behind me telling me "You've got this." There are sections of very narrow trail that you are so glad there are chains bolted into the mountain. (Whoever had the guts to install them, I would like to know!)

We made it to the top! Oh yeah... it was worth it!

My 25th

2010-05-14T09:42:00.000-07:00

I had such a great birthday this year! (5.7) It started with Brett singing Happy Birthday to me in Russian with a candle in my favorite blueberry cake doughnut. So sweet! It was nice having my parents in town from AZ. My mom took me and Brett to lunch for my favorite - Sushi - (well Brett opted out, but did try a California roll - which has no Sushi in it for those of you wondering. It was a step though!) I spent the rest of the afternoon shopping (and being spoiled) by my mom (Dad's orders) :). We got manicures. It was just a relaxing and fun day.

We went to Rodizio Grill for dinner. It is so delish if you haven't had the chance to go. Brazilian bbq style with amazing meats, amazing salad bar - pace yourself is the best advice I can give. One of my favorites is the roasted pineapple - like candy in your mouth! My brother-in-law Jerrick works there so I'm not sure if he loves the extra time spent there for dinner - He did get up and play a mean bongo though when they sang me my birthday song! Thanks so much everyone for making it a special day!

I love this guy. He surprised me with a Garmin watch. It was literally one of the few surprises since we have been married because I am a brat and always try and find out or buy my own presents. It was nice being surprised! I'm so excited to try it out running. Love you babe.

Such a lucky girl to have such an amazing mom! We are so close and I don't know what I would do without her. Thank you Mom and Dad for my new outfit, purse, necklace, and U2 concert tickets! Waay too much.

My sis Amy - love her! Thank you (and Jerrick) for the adorable necklace! I will miss you tons but know you will do so well in Texas for P.A. school. It has been a blast having you so close the last few years - you are such a great friend.

We missed my sister Katy and her husband Josh who were busy packing to go cross country to Iowa (I think?) for the summer. Good luck you two with summer sales! Love ya.

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T18:44:00.000-07:00

I am so lucky to have such amazing women in my life. My mother is selfless. She is thoughtful. She is funny and playful. She is amazingly creative. She is nurturing. She is always there for me - even if she lives in Arizona! She is my number one fan (as a person and in all my business ventures). She is a best friend. Mom, thank you for all you are and all you do! I love you.

My Grandma K. is the single most generous person I know. She is the definition of compassion. She has a great sense of humor. She is an amaaaazing cook! She gives the best hugs.

My Grandma S. was free spirited. She loved to sing to me. She had a great love for children. She had a deep concern and nurturing way for animals (that I think I got from her!).

My Mother-in-law is strong. She is faithful. She has a never ending concern for others. She is genuine. She is an inspiration to me and all that know her. I am so greatful for the chance I've had to get to know and learn from her.
Here's to all the amazing women in our lives!

An arrangement I did for Mother's Day.

http://www.designsbykf.com/

(Mom, Grandma K. Amy (sister), Me :)

We had brunch at my Grandma's, then visited Brett's parents and enjoyed pie. Yum!

Fishing.

2010-04-25T18:31:00.000-07:00

Brett has never really cared much about our blog, but kept bugging me to do a little post on this...

So, here ya go!

Brett and I went fishing this weekend on the Bear River. We had a little picnic and it was so much fun! I love fishing with Brett because he gets me all set up so I don't have to touch the worms and he even handles the fish. I get to do the fun part of hooking them and reeling them in. (He convinced me to hold this fat guy for a pic since it was the biggest fish I've ever caught. Good thing for anti-bac!) We caught some little catfish and a few of these huge Carp. They were little fighters - it kinda wore me out just to get this one in. It didn't help that my reel kept spinning backwards when the fish was flipping around - I need a new pole. Maybe a cute new pink one for my birthday next week?! hahaha. Brett weighed it and this one weighed 20 pounds! I kept giving him crap because I put him to shame with the size of my fish. It's ok babe, I've heard a lot of guys struggle with the size of their fish. :) It was so nice to just relax and enjoy the spring weather and each other before Brett goes out of town on business for the week.

Daughtry, Lifehouse, Cavo Concert

2010-04-23T12:26:00.000-07:00

I am obsessed with music. I love it. Mostly all kinds. I think I get it from my dad. Brett didn't realize how much it meant to me when we first got married. We've been on some lame concert dates, I'm not gonna lie. The last concert we went to, Brett was plugging his ears and was the worst date. Ever! (I don't understand how loud guns going off in your ear doesn't bother you but music does?) I have since had a little chat with him that marriage is about learning new things and appreciating them. (like me going hunting with him, but of course not shooting anything!) I just thought I would give you a little history because he was such a great date this time. We went to the Blue Iguana in Salt Lake before hand and had an awesome night together at the concert. Thanks babe - I had so much fun! *I took some awesome videos but can't upload them, so check out my tribute playlist on the right to hear what we saw live last night. :) (esp. Cavo's Let it Go if you haven't heard of them)

Daughtry has an amazing voice, even live! I wish he would have done some unplugged stuff.

Jason Wade of Lifehouse... so much talent.

I saw Lifehouse at one of my first concerts so it was fun to see them again!

Jason Wade and Daughtry did a duet during the encore, so cool!

Just a little over a month until my next concert (U2 360 Tour) with my awesome parents! Can't wait!

lia sophia jewelry spring sale!

2010-04-21T09:09:00.000-07:00

SALE available for ONE Week Left ONLY~ buy 2 Items get 4 HALF OFF & 10.00 off order... MOST expensive is HALF OFF .... *BONUS! The first 2 people to contact me will also get a hostess bonus item (anything under $100 for $15!) See the catalog ONLINE AT www.liasophia.com/kimfrancom Lifetime warrenty, Semi Precious Stones & AMAZING BEAUTIFUL JEWELRY.... Think Mother's Day or spice up your jewelry for summer. Contact me BY Sunday the 25th for Your Order!!!!

Snow Basin

2010-04-18T16:35:00.000-07:00

It makes me sad, almost a little teary eyed to be writing this post since our resort just closed for the season. Snow Basin is a beautiful resort. Thanks to the Olympics, the lodges/facilities are gorgeous and it was so nice being able to ride up in the gondola, especially on snowy days. We practically lived up there every weekend - and some week days too! We got season passes again this year, (last year to Park City) along with our good friends Holly and Landon. They taught me how to snowboard 2/3 years ago and it's such a fun part of our lives now. (Soo glad I never have to go back to the "beginner" days - that was rough!) So many good memories and fun. Here are a few pictures...

low point.

2010-04-06T10:07:00.000-07:00

Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experiences of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired and success achieved. ~Helen Keller

I know that God knows and loves us and does not give us more than we can handle. Every once in a while, I just need the reminder.

easter

2010-04-05T12:37:00.000-07:00

We had a good Easter this year. We are so lucky to be close to so many that we love. I have been wanting to try out Bakerella's cake pops since I thought they are darling so I convinced my friend Holly to make them with me. They seem so simple and cute, but were a TON of work. If I ever forget how many hours they took us and decide to make them again, at least I will know a few things how to make it go smoother next time! There were definitely a few not so perfect moments that nearly brought tears but we thought they did turn out pretty cute. And yummy too. Just to clarify, they are bunnies and chicks, NOT pigs and ducks as Brett's dad put it. :)

On Saturday, we celebrated with Brett's family in Lehi with our traditional adult easter egg hunt... involving money. This event can be pretty intense, even graphic. The first year married to Brett, his sister was brutally shoved down and in tears by her husband and brother at the starting line. The boys have gotten a little more cordial over the years since this event. Since everyone gets an equal number of eggs, Brett usually tells me where several eggs are since I am a little slower to find them sometimes. :) This year, we beat everyone and got nearly $80 between the two of us!!

On Easter, my sisters and their husbands came to our house for a yummy brunch and fun. We had our traditional overnight egg dish, cinnamon rolls, fruit smoothies, deviled eggs.... yum.

We decided to switch it up and play couples poker..Katy and Josh CLEANED HOUSE!

Amy is famous for her "cat naps". Jerrick, what a good husband.

Me and my honey

.... we hid "pupperoni" in place of eggs around the house for our puppies. Pretty entertaining.

Mom and Dad were sad they were all alone in Arizona but were so sweet to send us packages with easter outfits, candy, and even treats for our pooches! They are so thoghtful and we miss them. It was fun to spend time with family and remember the reason for Easter.

Vegas Getaway!

2010-03-20T10:52:00.000-07:00

Brett's friend had a trip planned to Vegas for the Mountain West Tourny but got injured (tore his ACL and meniscus) playing church dodge ball. Poor guy! We did what we could to help him out and took his room at the Hilton! We enjoyed the road trip and had a lot of fun hanging out together and lounging by the pool. Here are a few pics of our adventure. (Some day this will be the real Eiffel Tower!)

We went to a Blue Man Group show... definitely over-rated if you ask me! If you go, don't pay more than $20/$30 a ticket. It was fun though.

I love me some Chippendale boys! haha.

We went to The Painted Desert Golf Course

I need to start taking lessons again once it warms up. I was a liiiiiiitle rusty. :)

Look at that form! :)

Can't wait for our next getaway!

Happy Birthday Baby!

2010-03-20T09:49:00.000-07:00

We had fun celebrating Brett's birthday in February. He still doesn't love birthdays, but I am trying each year to make it special and fun... He took a half day off work and we went up to Snow Basin for some snow boarding. I was just getting over being up all night with the stomach flu, so I was a little nervous how I would do. It was tons of fun, as usual though. My Mom was in town so we were able to take her with us to dinner at Teppanyaki. Yum! (I always try to get Brett to try my Sushi roll because he would like it if he tried it... no such luck). :)

He {almost} completed his bow setup. He got his bow for Christmas so he got it all pimped out as well as new arrows. He also got a golf club from my parents that I had to convince him it was ok if he didn't sleep with it. haha. He did find the only golf course that was open yet down in Salt Lake by the airport and has been going there every chance he gets!

Action Shot

Mack, "how long do I really have to wear this rediculous bow?... oh the things I do for a treat."

We also met up with Brett's parents at The Blue Iguana (one of our favorites) in Salt Lake to celebrate. (I forgot to get a picture). I'm so lucky to be able to spend another birthday with you baby, love you!

Girls Trip in NYC for Mom's 50th!

2010-03-01T10:40:00.000-08:00

My mom recently celebrated 50 years young. To celebrate, she took her 3 daughters to New York City! It was so much fun and a special vacation we will never forget. Thank you so much Daddy for making it all possible! Here are a few moments from our trip...

We took a walk through Central Park on the way to one of the 4 museums we visited. (The Guggenheim, The MOMA (Museum of Modern Art), The MET (Metropolitan Museum of Art), and The Museum of Natural History. The weather was so beautiful for mid february!

The Guggenheim art museum. (Architect: Frank Lloyd Wright)

I was in heaven looking at all the amazing art I learned about in my art history classes!

I bet this is one place the boys would have been disapointed to miss... The Musem of Natural History

Look out Katy!!

Prehistoric Moose... I thought they were big now!

I just had to mention that a guy took this picture. He kept moving closer and didn't think that maybe we wanted a cool dinosaur in our picture. I guess the background will have to do. :)

My mom's fav artist is Monet... we got to see a whole series of his Waterlilly Collection at the MET.

The MET

We went on a Harbor Cruise and saw the NY Skyline and the Statue of Liberty. I had no idea how massive the city was until we flew into it. Seeing it by boat was a great way to do it.

It was beautiful!

We took a visit to China Town to do some shopping. Canal Street is so much fun! We got knock off purses and jewelry. They were actually celebrating their New Year so it was a lot of fun. We sampled the bakeries and tried some peking duck. Not too bad! Although I think it would be too much work to pluck one of Brett's ducks. Plus I wouldn't want to take away our dogs favorite treat!

Rockefeller Plaza

Top of the Rock Skyline view.

We pretty much had to cave and buy these delicious roasted street nuts anytime we saw them!

St. Patricks Cathedral was beautiful.

We went shopping at SOHO. Here we are having Mexican Hot Chocolate. Yum!

Birthday Girl! Fondu and chocolate cake with cayenne pepper!

We went to Tiffany's!

We got my mom (and by we I mean mostly my dad) a beautiful key necklace.

Here she is opening it at our hotel.

Wicked was probably the highlight of our trip. We had amazing seats (8th row)! The music was phenominal. I will never look at the Wizard of OZ the same again.

For my mom's birthday we went to The View, a revolving restaurant on top of our hotel.

We did the dessert buffet - amazing! (both the view and the food)

Happy Birthday to a beautiful mom, inside and out. I don't know what I would do without you!

Thanks so much again Mom and Dad! We will have to do more girls trips!

Christmas... In March?

2010-03-01T10:38:00.000-08:00

So... I never got around to blogging about Christmas, I'm soo behind! Better late than never! We went down to AZ and had a blast. My sister Amy and her husband Jerrick went down too. We had so much fun. Thanks so much for the amazing hospitality and fun Mom and Dad!

Christmas Eve (note the 2 liter of dt. coke on the floor conviently behind me) :)

My dad makes the best prime rib... ever.

Just a dog hoping to get lucky! (and she does)

My cute mom. And her cute apron. I wonder who made it? :)

We went to Mannheim Steamroller for their Christmas Concert and it was so fun to watch. They are seriously talented. We also went to Zoo Lights... which was fun but I think everyone in Phoenix thougtht it would be a good idea as well.

Brett also made us go golfing in 40 degree weather! (This is the coldest it ever gets there pretty much - record lows). It was so freezing and I was thankful my dad had a cart heater so I could get the feeling back in my fingers! We went in their hot tub pretty much every night and it was sooo nice and relaxing. Can't wait to go back!

We also got the chance meet at our Grandparents house in Salt Lake for dinner.

My grandparents and I surprised my sisters with cricuts!

They are two of the best people you could ever meet.

ifly and flow-rider

2009-12-19T09:02:00.000-08:00

Brett's company won a local contest and we were able to go to the ifly (indoor skydiving), and flow-rider (kneeboarding and surfing) at Fat Cats in Ogden. It was a blast! It would have been $130 a person and it was free so you can't beat that! It really made me want to go real sky diving even more! (I just have to talk Brett or someone else to go with me!)
Group Shot. Sexy outfits, right? haha.
The Naturals!

Brett surfing it up...
Our reaction to him eating it hard! For the record, it's nothing like snowboarding... Oh and a tip if you ever go, don't rely only on a bikini - some girl was a little exposed after she fell!
Me kneeboarding:Fun night!

things i'm thankful for (in no particular order)

2009-11-07T11:44:00.000-08:00

1. Music -Anything and everything. It lifts me up and sometimes I don't know what I would do without it.

2. Running/my eliptical -Don't always love the process of starting a workout, but once I'm done, it feels soo good! It gets me through hard times by giving me a natural high.

3. Brett! -I think I'm the luckiest girl alive to have a husband that is so smart, hilarious, hot, COMPLETELY understanding (with the exception of my love of shopping), and loves me unconditionaly. I don't know how he puts up with me, but it's almost five years since we've been married and we've never stopped having fun together.

4. Dt. Coke (preferably with lime and from a fountain) -Need I say more? I'd love to meet the creator and thank them.

5. My puppies (Macky and Bella) -Yes, I am that person that is obsessed with my dogs and thinks of them as my kids. Get over it.

6. My family -Again, I have to think that I have the most amazing family that is there for me -always and forever! Without their unconditional love and support, I wouldn't be the person I am today.

7. My heavenly father and serving in Young Womens -Life throws us so many challenges. I am so greatful for my heavenly father that helps me realize we also have so much to be thankful for. I absolutely love the ladies and girls in Young Womens! I look up to them all and think they are amazing. I only wish I could teach them as much as they show me.

8. Design/Creating -I always love planning something or working on a new project.

9. LeBron James -Ok, I'm sorry but I love watching basketball so of course, he had to make the list!

10. Friends -I am a really private person and there are only a few people that truely know me. I'm so greatful for the awesome friends in my life and consider them family.

I hope everyone has a fabulous Thanksgiving full of friends and family!

Gouls Night

2009-10-26T09:24:00.001-07:00

Ok... So I'm slightly obsessed with Halloween. It's really not just for kids! We had a little Halloween party which was a lot of fun. Thanks everyone for coming and helping out!
Menu: Spicy Toad Legs (chicken wings), Poisen Apples, Deadly Morsels (candy), Devilish Delights (sweets), Mad Scientist Margaritas (with gummy brain ice cubes), Toxic Tonic (bottled water), Witch Caldron dip with bat chips, Petrafied Eyeballs (Meatballs with green olive), Road kill and rotten cheese (salami/cheese tray)
Franken-Shooters (red pepper hummus with veggies and pretzels)
Devilish Delights (brownie pops, cupcakes)
Toxic Tonic
The Gang
Al Capone and his mistress
Biker Babes
Dr. Pepper and Super Woman
Halloween Tree -just a little spray paint and a dead branch!
Bella and Macky

fall pics

2009-10-21T14:09:00.000-07:00

Our friend Landon is a photographer and he took some fun pictures for us. His website is www.smithvisionphoto.com. He's great!We weren't sure if we would get any good ones with our crazy dogs, but I think they turned out pretty cute. I'm pretty sure I'm enlarging the one where Mack is nearly pulling me over when we were trying to get some of us walking. It such a captured moment of our life with them. Dogs are such a blessing though.

Creed/Staind Concert

2009-10-03T11:49:00.000-07:00

Last minute, we got some free tickets to the Creed and Staind concert! Luckily, my sisters and their husbands were all able to shift their work schedules so we could all go together! It's kind of a rarity to get everyone together at the same time. It was a lot of fun - great concert! The songs reminded me a bit of early highschool. love them! I was a little more than blown away at all the firework and pyro-technic stuff they did -INDOORS! We went to dinner at the Blue Iguana in Salt Lake beforehand. Yum!!

pratts hatts

2009-10-01T15:55:00.001-07:00

My cute friend Jill started up a company making these adorable hats for kids. For lack of better explanation, they are seriously cute. She makes a variety and you can interchange flowers, etc. Go on over to her website, www.prattshatts.com and check them out now!

on top of the world: mt. timpanogous

2009-08-23T10:26:00.000-07:00

Brett and I had an amazing hike this weekend. We went up the north peak of Mt. Timpanogous, which is up American Fork Canyon. It is the deer bow hunt so Brett brought along his bow. We saw a ton of deer. (I guess none were big enough for him to shoot). I wasn't too disappointed. There were two (2) points that came right up to us to check us out - so cute.

So we got to a point where we were planning on stopping, and I reminded Brett that going to the very top is on my list of things to do before I'm 30. There were only deer trails to follow the first half of the hike, so Brett forged our own path the rest of the way. The view from the top... It was absolutely amazing. Possibly one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen. I now understand why Brett wasn't too impressed when we were at the top of the space needle in Seattle or the Sears Tower in Chicago. Being at the very top of a mountain at almost 12,000 feet with 360 panaramic views just can't be matched! Brett was impressed that I didn't want to turn around since the hike was so steep you put your hand out in front of you and can touch the mountain. I think that was part of the challenge, was to prove myself. Here are a few pictures of our adventure. Trust me though, they are way better in person!

Here are some pictures of Brett's bucks:

fun in the sun in arizona!

2009-08-23T10:25:00.000-07:00

My sisters and I all flew down to AZ together to visit our parents and hang out for a week. It was a great trip!

I did a jewelry party one night and my mom invited some neighbors and friends over.

After some convincing, we were able to get our sweet dog into the pool with us. We made THE BEST chile rellenos one night. Yum.
We had an awesome time out on the golf course together.

Amy and I were cart buddies.

wendover weekend

2009-08-02T10:26:00.000-07:00

We had a fun little getaway for the weekend with our friends Holly and Landon. We drove out to Wendover to see Diamond Rio and try out our hand at a little black jack. The band is actually putting out a new Christian album which is kind of cool- Some of the members are lds. Anyway, it was fun just to getaway and have fun together. Holly and Landon Me and Holly Diamond Rio

kenny chesney... I think his tractor's sexy!

2009-07-24T09:32:00.000-07:00

Brett took me on the best date ever! We went to the famous red iguana (mexican restaurant in salt lake) for dinner, then went to the concert. I was sooo excited when I found out our seats were on the shaded half of the stadium since it reached 100. It was sooo hot!

I'm sorry for all you Sugarland lovers out there, but I'm not a fan of her music. Needness to say, I was so excited when I saw a giant sign when we were walking in stating that she had lost her voice and the other pre-show acts would be extended! Yay! The openers were awesome, I am a new huge fan of lady antebellum. I've heard all their hit singles, and the rest of their stuff is awesome as well!

Miranda Lambert was a great opener too. I love her.

Kenny of course put on an awesome show, I was loving it. Brett was a good sport since I know he isn't a huge music fan. A lot of the time when I looked over at him, he was busy watching the security guard handle people, or something equally as exciting. Haha. No, he really was a fun date. The concert started at 5:30 and didn't end until around 11:30! I've never been to a concert that long. It was awesome, Kenny never slowed down with his intensity. Thanks baby! I had an amazing time!!

A fan threw him a Ute hat and he came out wearing it for his encore. It was cool.

hello chicago

2009-07-10T13:53:00.000-07:00

Brett had some business in Chicago, visiting customers. I was so excited since I've always wanted to go to Chicago to see the beautiful architecture. After the great fire in 1871 that destroyed a third of the city, the city underwent rapid planning and reconstruction. We went on a tour and saw all the great buildings. We saw the Trump tower, where you can stay in the pent house sweet for a mere $10K a night. We also saw the high rise where Oprah currently resides. We also saw Al Capones old office and a church, yes a church, where his gang gunned down another.

This is the navy pier where they have live music and all kinds of entertainment. The view from the ferris wheel was awesome!

We went to a Cubs game while we were there, which was fun, but I have to admit the fans weren't as crazy as I thought they'd be.

The city was crystal clean with potted flowers and flower beds everywhere. It was so beautiful!

The view from the Hancock building was amazing! It is the 2nd tallest building in Chicago (the Sears tower being the first). The elevator ride to the 96th floor took about the same amount of time as the ride to 7th floor of our hotel we stayed at.

celebrating freedom

2009-07-10T07:37:00.001-07:00

We had a fun time celebrating our freedom this year. I love this holiday!
We started the celebration on the 3rd and went to dinner and fireworks in Bountiful with our friends Holly and Landon. They were great as usual!

We celebrated my sister Katy's birthday with a bbq and our traditional flag cake. She got a new puppy for her birthday - a sweet golden retriever named Keisha.

We met up with some cousins - the shupes and the dones for the parade in North Ogden. (after eating a yummy breakfast in the park at the cherry days).

Designing my parents home in Arizona!

2009-07-02T09:02:00.000-07:00

It was great spending time with my parents in their new home! Before we started, the walls were all the same buttercream gold. Beautiful, but all the same! What a difference a little color makes! It was a foreclosure so many of the light fixtures were missing -- I have to say, my mom did a great job on selecting new ones! It was a whirlwind week of selecting fabrics, shopping, hanging art, and staging. I left my poor mom quite the list of things to do to make everything complete. (mainly window treatments). Thanks so much you guys for putting so much faith in me to help you bring it all together - it was the perfect opportunity in starting my new business!

This is an artist (from Poland) that did a spectacular mural on the outside of the snail shower of the master. It is really quite something to look at in real life. My dad named it the "window of opportunity" which is so fitting as you look up you can't help but wonder what is next on the horizon.

Cali!

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

Sorry I've been slacking in the blog department. Things have been busy! Anyway, Brett had business in the San Diego area a few weeks ago so we decided to make a little trip out of it.

The famous Torrey Pines golf course, where Tiger won the US Open last year. It was beautiful. We also went on a hike on the national trails. What an amazing view when we got to the top at sunset. Apparantly the type of pine can only be found one other place in the world.

We had a blast spending time together on the beach. There were all these seals that were sun bathing on rocks at this beach. They were so cute!

We were on our way to a beach and noticed the San Diego temple off the freeway so we had to stop. (we felt a little underdressed in our beach clothes but it was too beautiful not to look).

We met up with my aunt, uncle and cousins (The Johnsons) at Dodgers Stadium. Uncle Kelly got us Dodger dogs and malts - we had a blast. Dodgers won!

my new favorite color and the lake

2009-06-03T13:44:00.000-07:00

Check it out - my new favorite color. I just had to post a picture of these beautiful peonies blooming in our yard. The blossoms are so huge and the most beautiful shade of pink! Brett had to tie the bush because the weight of them was causing them to start to fall over. I just love this time of year.
Sorry... I know all I blog about are our puppies, but they really are like our kids. We love them! We went to Mantua and caught some sun before the thunderstorm. Mack decided to jump in the lake but I don't think he knew it wasn't land because he went completely under and was pretty surprised when he came back up. He had fun making friends with the fish we caught though.

long weekend!

2009-05-26T20:33:00.000-07:00

Brett put Mack in my little bag I had and carried him for a while. It was pretty funny. This about sums it up with Belle tugging on her leash.

Brett and I had a lot of fun together this past memorial weekend. We went to pineview lake, went golfing, played tennis, watched some playoff games with our friends Holly and Landon, went for a hike up waterfall canyon in Ogden, and had dinner with my awesome grandparents, sister and husband and cousin Keri! The hike was a workout between carrying the tired puppy that just layed down and started whining because he was tired and trying to hold Bella back from checking out all the other dogs and people. It was so pretty though and definitely worth it!

babysitting nephew wyatt

2009-05-22T12:39:00.000-07:00

I got the chance to do an overnight sit for Brett's brother and his wifes son. He is adorable, when he gets his way. We had a fun time together though. He loved playing with the puppies and finger painting with pudding. Hopefully they don't get mad at me for letting him do that, but he is quite the artist. I took him to the park in Syracuse and we looked at the ducks and cows. So much excitement for him. I had so much fun taking pictures of him, even though he got tired of the camera fast. I think we got some cute ones though!

My birthday present = Mack!

2009-05-14T13:56:00.000-07:00

I had the best birthday! My parents were in town and I went golfing with my mom and Brett in the morning. For dinner, we went to Tempanyaki, one of my favs. My sister Amy and her husband Jerrick and my Grandparents also came up, which made it fun.
After months of begging for another dog, my cute husband decided to get me one for my birthday! (I am such a dog lover - they make the best companions). Plus I think Bella needed a friend to play with during the day. I love little Macky, he is the most adorable little yellow lab. It is entertaining watching him interact with our other dog Bella. They love each other! The only problem is I don't remember potty training being such an ordeal when we got Bella. He seems to have it mixed up where he is supposed to do his duty. Maybe if I put a piece of carpet outside he will go there? Suggestions anyone?

gobble gobble

2009-04-23T12:58:00.001-07:00

Last night Brett was so excited to get his first turkey. We went hiking up sounth of Logan. Brett and his cousin Chris called about 8 of them into us. It was my first experience ever being with Brett when he got something so it meant a lot to him. I was "excited" for him.

Tulip Festival in WA

2009-04-22T13:03:00.001-07:00

Here are some last pics of our trip to Seattle. Our last day we took a drive up north to the tulip festival. There were hundreds of acres just filled with tulips, daffodils, and iris. It was so beautiful to see in person! It really got me excited for spring and to plant my own little flower garden.

Snoqualmie Falls WA

2009-04-18T17:33:00.000-07:00

Brett and I took a little drive to see some more of Washington. We went to Snoqualmie Falls and took a little hike down to the bottom. It was so beautiful and kind of peaceful sitting in the mist of it.