The fishs

World's worst blogger

2011-12-17T16:33:00.000-08:00

So yea, maybe I'm the world's worst blogger, but thanks to my ever, super, most fantastic, awesome aunt, I do have cute cute pictures. I have super cute ones that my amazingly talented and every beautiful sister Breea took as well, but they're not on the computer that this blog post is coming from, so for now....enjoy this will you?

Yep, you guessed it....4 months old.

2011-08-19T10:20:00.001-07:00

Once a month blogging is the new trend I guess...better than nothing!

So the little guy is 4 months old! He is so much fun..I officially love this age! He's talking a ton, laughing, and starting to roll over. He's such a good baby, loves his bouncer, swing, bumbo, and new love, the exe-saucer! Still nursing but he gets a bottle once a day so I can teach piano. He's losing most of his hair, except for a nice mullet in the back. This month has also brought on some not so great changes- he's sleeping worse, getting up 3-4 times a night. Teething? Growth spurt? Whatever it is-ugh. He spoiled me I guess. We finally moved him to his own room WAY upstairs. He's fine- I'm struggling.

4 month stats:

Weight: 15lbs 9oz- 50th%

Length: 26 1/2- 90th%

Head: 16cm- 30th%

Brennon starts his LAST SEMESTER OF SCHOOL today!!! I'm a tad excited about this.

Pictures...

His concerned face...

Pictures from his blessing day...such a wonderful day with our family and friends

Getting ready.

I'm pretty sure he's loving this.

Lots of the beautiful women in his life..

He loves bath time!

And loves his excesaucer!

4 months old baby!

The Fish's

And the Gutts

Love my little family!!

3 months and awesome.

2011-07-25T22:16:00.000-07:00

Stratton is becoming such a little ball of fun. He smiles non-stop (except when the camera comes out), is super close to letting a little laugh out, and beginning to try to roll over. He's starting to grab at things and mastering the difficult task of hand-eye coordination....hopefully he gets Brennons'. Me+any sport=failure.

He is officially sleeping through the night...on a 8:30pm-5:00ish am (then back to bed til 8:30) sleeping schedule. YAY! This has made my life, and Brennon's, consequently, 12,638,273 times better. He's such a stud.

We go in next month for the check up but I'm guessing he's getting close to 14-15lbs. He's a delicious little chunk. Anyways, here's some pictures.

3 months old!

We had my Gma Guttery's 80th birthday party in Holbrook, twas a great time.

Big Stratton meets little Stratton.

4th of July family pic.

Cuddling with Grandpa at the parade.

Everyday when we get home from running errands or what-not, I strip him down and let him air out. The summer sun totally wears this kid out.

2nd cousins....they are yummy

We just got back from beautiful Colorado! The Hatch family got a lodge near Durango and we spent the week hiking, white water rafting, sightseeing, playing lots of cards and eating lots of delicious food. It was practically perfect, except that Brennon wasn't there. Sad face.

Strat man was such a good traveller, only crying the last 20 minutes. If it was acceptable, I would have been crying too. Looong day.

Mostly, he was doing this:

Crazy girls.

He's not impressed.

2 months old!

2011-06-13T15:27:00.000-07:00

Time really does fly! I can't believe how big this little man is getting. He is so much fun- starting to talk to us and smile a ton. Here are his 2 month stats...

Weight: 12 lbs 10 oz in the 75 percentile

Height: 25 inches in the 90th percentile (Brennon could not be more excited about this.)

Head: 15 inches in the 50th percentile- he didn't get Brennon's large noggin!

He got his shots last week which was like the saddest thing ever. He did so good, I probably cried more than he did. I am loving feeling good again and staying home with my little man. I'm teaching piano to 12 students which is perfect. Brennon just started his summer internship with Cox and is really liking it so far. He only has one more semester to go to get his Bachelors! Yay! We decided to live off the grants and loans next semester and have him finish up. He'll be taking 21 credits but not working. We're excited to be so close to being DONE! And thats really all that is going on with us, just enjoying Strat man and his adorable-ness. Now for some pictures.....

We got to go visit Evan, Cara, and the twins in Seattle when Stratton was just 5 weeks old. A little nerve-wrecking but he did such a good job on the flight. Probably the easiest flight we'll ever get with him for a long time. Brennon had to quit the airline job so we wanted to see them one last time til Thanksgiving. We had such a good time hanging with them and they even cooperated enough to give us a few good pictures.

Going shopping for Stratton's blessing outfit was so fun. He was our little doll and humored us outfit after outfit.

These were the top two contenders...

We ultimately had to go with this one. Could not resist the bow tie.

We blessed him on June 5th at my parent's house- more pictures to come of that!

He's a big smiler

So happy to be 2 months!

First time swimming! Loved it until he jerked and his face went in the water.

Just discovered his hand this week and how good it tastes.

The many faces of Stratton!

Yummy

2011-04-30T06:38:00.001-07:00

Thanks Kristal, you are a GENIUS!

The little man is here!

2011-04-17T15:09:00.000-07:00

I'm going to try to get back on the blogging train but I warn you, it will most likely be all about the little man from this point on. He's much cuter than us.

So, after a long and semi-miserable week long (after the due date) wait, Stratton finally decided to make his appearance! I was sooo ready- the nesting was getting a bit out of control. Here were his stats...

Stratton Randall Fish

Born on April 7th, 2011 at 5:38AM

8lbs 14oz

22inches

{Long} Birth Story...

I was scheduled to be induced on the 6th at 7:30AM. I wasn't even really nervous at this point, just so ready to be DONE being pregnant. We got to the hospital and they started me on the gels...very long process. They did 3 rounds of the gels which lasted until about 1PM. We did a lot of walking up and down stairs trying to get those contractions going. I wasn't making much progress- still only at a 3 but they were ready to start the Pitocin. They started that around 3PM. Then, by around 5, the contractions started coming on a lot faster and stronger. Good times. I sat on the exercise ball for basically 5 hours while I was enduring the contractions. We played some cards, watched a movie, and Brennon, my mom, and Brennon' mom attempted to distract me. Finally, I was just about at a 5 so I got the epidural. The epidural was scary, but oh so worth it. :) I was finally able to relax and tried (tried being the key word) to get some sleep. They had to have me on oxygen on and off and pumped me with fluids throughout the night. Around 1AM, the doctor broke my water and after that things started progressing much more quickly. I was to a 7 by 3AM and a 9 by 4AM. My mom and I woke up Brennon every time the nurse came in to check me- at least someone was able to sleep. :) By 4:30ish, I was at a 10 and ready to push. The doctor came in and I pushed for about 45 minutes.

Brennon wasn't really planning on watching any of it- I had barely convinced him to cut the cord. But the nurse asked him to hold one of my legs as I pushed so he was kind of thrown into it. Now though, he's so glad he was able to watch and experience everything and said it wasn't as scary as he thought it would be. I really wasn't expecting Stratton to be as big as he was- my guess was in the high 7lbs range. My mom's guess was the closest at 9lbs 2oz. I still can't believe a baby that big was inside me.

We delivered at Mercy Gilbert and could not have been more happy with the whole experience. I am convinced that nurses are part angel. They were amazing and made everything so great. The rooms were huge and so nice. Volunteers would come in and bring little cheesecakes and free cute knit beenies...ummm, awesome. So great that we decided to stay 2 nights instead of one. It was great to have that extra help with everything. We went home on the 9th in the morning.

We are just loving on our little man. His cheeks are so squishy and kissable and he has a nice mullet of black hair that feels like feathers. He has been sleeping great, one night in his first week even making it 6 hours straight through the night...although I woke up in a panic after I looked at the clock! He's on a pretty consistent 4 hour eating schedule and is doing great eating. My recovery went well and after 2 weeks, I'm feeling normal again, except this extra 20lbs hanging on me. It is quite an adjustment having our whole lives revolve around this amazing little person but we are enjoying it all.

After his 2 week appointment, he is now at 9lbs 6oz and in the 75% for weight and height. Practically perfect in every way! He is getting more alert and awake every day- its all going by so fast.

Here are some cute pictures...we take like 20 a day of him. Kristal is taking his newborn shots today so I'll post those soon!

The family can't get enough of him!

Cross eyed loon!

Hairy bum!

LOVE HIM!!!

In case you haven't heard...

2010-12-01T16:15:00.000-08:00

It's a

BOY!!!

HAPPY!

2010-09-27T23:31:00.000-07:00

So, this is actually Brennon posting this. Its late at night, Danica is asleep, (she is always tired now from the pregnancy) and I feel like I should post something, and I really don't know why.

As many of you have heard through our recent press releases (facebook, Blog), we are having a baby! We are REALLY excited! I will be honest though, I am a little nervous. To think that I am going to be in charge (well, with the help of Danica) of a little, tiny humans life, who will depend on me for everything is crazy. I am still learning to take care of myself and Danica at the same time. Its hard enough to balance that. But, having said that, I do feel that this is the right time. We need a little person to help us in the Fish home.

I always thought that as soon as I found out that I was going to be a dad my life would just completely change and I would all of the sudden be a knew man. Well, that didn't exactly happen. To my surprise I am pretty much the same guy who struggles to balance life. Who really has no idea how we are going to pay for all the expenses that are to come, and the same guy who is actually pretty selfish. I know that we have alot to learn, and this new chapter in our life is going to help us to progress more than we ever though possible.

So, I guess I just wrote this to say that I am excited to be a Father and I am so happy that I have a wonderful wife to experience this next step with! And every step for eternity!

2010-09-23T05:47:00.001-07:00

First comes love...

Then comes marriage....

Now comes a baby in a baby carriage!!

Fish baby is on it's way and March 3oth is the day!

Is this real life?!?

I just want to win.

2010-01-14T15:04:00.000-08:00

I know it's been so long since I posted- and this seems to be a trend in the way I start my posts. And I assure you, it will come soon. But, first,our wonderfully talented and amazing wedding photographers, The Sloans, are doing a fun giveaway on thier blog and I just really want to win....

this beautiful necklace from Lisa Leonard. Her necklaces are so cute and I just love this one. Anyways, that's all for now.

My goal is to blog about Christmas, New Years, and our upcoming San Francisco trip before next week when school starts again. I wouldn't hold your breath.

Boutique bandwagon.

2009-11-12T06:34:00.000-08:00

Yes, i'm hopping on it.

I'm gonna be selling my little diaper wipe containers on Saturday at this awesome boutique in Gilbert! You all should come, at least to say hi to me! :)

Here are just a few designs I'll have there...

More babies!

2009-10-16T08:17:00.000-07:00

Ok, if this doesn't make you baby hungry, I don't know what will.

First off, Pearcen Paul Mulder, born a shocking 8lbs 6oz, to Kristal and Jason. Yummy, yummy squishiness. I wish he lived right down the street so I could come squeeze him everyday.

AND, Alina Maurine Jones, born 9lbs 6 oz, to Tammee and Keith Jones. I wish I could go see her right now! Those cheeks are just asking to be eaten.

Congrats to my two lovely aunts, they make especially adorable kids!

The {long} overdue Costa Rican post.

2009-10-11T09:18:00.000-07:00

Finally! Wow, I am such a slacker. I have probably forgot about everything that happened but I will do my best to preserve the memories.

WARNING: This will be long and probably boring so have low expectations and maybe you'll be pleasantly surprised!

Ok, so we started off our trip by taking the red eye flight to Denver and then to San Jose, Costa Rica. I'm aware that this is not the most effective route, but we were assured seats if we went this way so I'll take the extra hour and a half.

So we got in around 6 in the AM and found a lovely little car to rent. With a GPS, mind you, which was the best 8 dollar a day we have ever spent. The roads there are super windy and narrow, and people drive like they have a death wish.

So, we drove for about 2 hours through amazing scenery and also some scary, ghetto parts. We stopped in a town and ate at this tiny little place that I was a little apprehensive about at first, mostly because we couldn't communicate with nice man taking our order. But when they brought out our 'comida typical', we were amazed. So good. And only 7 bucks for both of us!

Next, we stopped on the side of the road when we saw signs for canopy tours. We were there at like 8 AM so they gave us a huge discount! Score!

Don't let the excited smile fool you. I was on the brink of hyperventilating.

But after the first line, I was loving it! It was such a rush and AMAZING views! The last line was 350 ft above the jungle floor and really long. There was fog so we couldn't see in front of us. One the craziest feelings ever.

You now have permission to make fun of me.

Then we headed over to our first hotel, which was right by a volcano! But lucky us, we couldn't see the volcano because of the dang fog. You stink, Mother Nature. But the intense greenery and general lovliness made up for it.

We went on Expedia and got awesome deals but it's hard to know exactly what your gonna get. We were VERY pleasently suprised. We got our own little cabana! Here's the view from our back porch.

And here's the front. Notice the crazy thick fog.

I did alot of this.

These are the only flowers that Brennon knows the name of. So whenever he sees them, he gets all excited to showcase his floral knowledge.

We didn't want to leave; it was a paradise. And the breakfast was awesome. All the fresh fruit you could ask for, "typical" rice, pancakes, omelets. I really like food.

After reluctantly checking out, we headed over to the La Fortuna waterfall. It was quite a hike down but well worth it.

The small waterfall.

I was so sad I forgot my rain boots after I saw this lady. And my fanny pack.

My hottie of a husband.

And here's the actual waterfall. Breathtaking.

After the long and WET hike back up, and realizing how out of shape we are, we shook out our ponchos and headed to the next hotel. It was about a three hour drive through windy mountain roads. Our wonderful GPS would say things as we entered into different towns so we stopped a few places like the crocodile bridge....

These are REAL crocodiles in the WILD. People throw chickens off the bridge and watch them go crazy. Good times.

We finally made it to the town of Parrita and we had to cross this scary, rickety bridge that was under construction. I already hate bridges so I thought I was gonna die. And no, I'm not overreacting.

The language barrier was quite interesting. Alot of people spoke English but this town was pretty un-Americanized so we had kind of a tough time. This old man was selling fruit to all the people waiting at the bridge. We wondered what they were so we rolled down the window to see if he spoke English. Negative. We gave him a dollar and he piled a bunch of these random fruits into our car. We had no idea what they were or how to eat them. It was really funny at the time, I promise.

We drank alot of flavored milk, banana milk becoming the favorite.

Our next hotel was on a pennisula, which made it very hard to find. Add in the fact that they had NO signs and we were a little lost. And by a little, I mean ALOT. After driving aimlessly for a while on an extremly bumpy road, we finally found our little peice of heaven.

This place is basically in the middle of nowhere. A hidden gem, if you will. We went during the rainy season so there was only 2 other couples staying there. And that means we got bumped up to a suite! It totally felt like the honeymoon we never had.

And here's our beach. We were literally the only people for miles most of the time. If the weather would have cooperated, we would have just been there the whole time.

Have I ever expressed my love for hammocks? No? Well, lets just put it this way. My only requirement when/if we ever get a cabin is a nice comfy hammock. I have such good memories with the hammock at my grandparents house and cabin and I want to pass this on to my kids. They are just so relaxing and peaceful and wonderful. A little obssessed? Maybe.

Anyways.

Back to Costa Rica.

I don't know if you knew this but it rains there. Alot. We were hopeful in the morning before we left that it might stop but we found out Costa Rican rain is NOT like Arizona rain. It lasts longer than 15 min and it is freaking HUMID.

Nevertheless, we ventured to Manual Antonio National Park to try and see some wildlife.

Don't you just LOVE my pink poncho? So attractive. It poured basically the whole time we were there so we wern't able to see any animals. All I wanted was one little monkey! Is that too much to ask from you rainforest!?

Anyways, we were able to see macaws but on a different day. We were exploring beaches and we heard some really loud noises so we pulled over, looked up, and saw tons of brightly colored birds flying over! It was crazy to see them in the wild. They are loud suckers.

There was alot to do in the area like snorkeling, white water rafting, repeling, ect. but it was all freaking expensive so we just kinda hung out for most of the time. About half way through our trip we realized we had already used all the money we had set aside for this so we had to be cheap. Boooo money.

The next 2 days we got some good weather so we were able to go to just the beach! It was amazing. The water is warm, sand is perfect and fun shells everywhere.

I get so excited like a 5 year old when I find cool shells. The middle sand dollar almost made me have a heart attack. This became our only souviner, cause we are cheap.

Beach shenanigans.

Akward self timer picture.

The National Surf competition was going on about 30 minutes from where we were staying so we decided to go check it out.

Overated.

No, it was cool but it was super crowded and the sand was burning hot. We sat down and watched the surfers for about 30 min until a storm rolled in and we left. We did see an igauna in the wild, which made up for the 5 dollars we paid for parking. (not.)

We went to bed around 8:30 every night, read alot, took lots of walks on the beach, and just relaxed. It was perfect. Thinking about makes me miss it.

Reluctantly departing.

Final picture. We were so sad to leave. I could have used another week or so.

We then drove the 3 hours back to the airport and stayed the night in scary San Jose. Our flight was at 5 in the morning so we wanted to stay close so we didn't have to leave at midnight.

We are so glad we got to go and I got to get some use outta my expensive passport! I was really sad when we realized we couldn't go to Scotland, but this was definatly an amazing substitute. It was some much needed Brennon and Dani time and it was the most romantic, relaxing and magical week for the two of us!

More crafting

2009-09-22T21:24:00.000-07:00

I don't really know why, but I've been wanting to craft recently. Maybe I'm making up for the past 20 years of being anti-crafting, maybe I'm just using it to stall doing homework. Either way, it's fun.

In case you are looking at this and have no idea what it is, its a baby wipe holder. Decorated cutely. I know, kind of a random craft, especially since I don't have any babies of my own to use them on, but with all the baby showers I'm going to, they make cute gifts. I'm trying to decide if I should actually sell them, like on Etsy or something. But I give you, my 3 readers out there a chance at them first. There all just sitting in my closet, waiting to be used by some cute mommy.

And one more clipboard I made for my sis.

Oh, and in case you were wondering, I AM going to post about Costa Rica at some point. So don't you worry.

I'm an Aunt!!

2009-09-14T16:45:00.000-07:00

Here are the adorable and perfect twins, born to Cara and Evan on 09/09/2009! I am pleased to introduce you to Carter Dean and Vienna Carolyn. Mom and babies are doing well and I cannot wait to meet them!

Awesome deal!!

2009-09-09T12:21:00.000-07:00

Ok, I just had to share this great deal that's only going on today!

I don't know how many of you have heard of restaurant.com but it's pretty awesome. Just today, in honor of it being 09.09.2009, they are giving 90% off! So...you normally get 25$ gift certificates for 10 bucks- now your getting them for 1$!

The resturants are not your typical chain ones, although they do have Boston's and My Big Fat Greek Restaurant (our fav). Also, they have stipulations, like most you have to spend at least 35 bucks to use the 25$ gift certificate. But still, totally worth it when your getting it for a dollar.

I got 150$ worth of gift certificates for.....drum roll please..... $6.00!!

I got the 6 month dinner of the month deal where you get a different $25 gift certificate every month PLUS a free $25 gift certificate! There's also the 12 month plan that you get a free $50

gift certificate and that ends up being $12.00 with the discount for $350 worth of gift cards- which is an awesome deal- I just don't know that we would use them all. They expire one year after you purchase them.

The code is NINETY at checkout. Do it. You will not regret it.

UTAH FRUIT!!

2009-08-31T17:24:00.000-07:00

{Are you drooling yet?}

Hey guys, so I have the opportunity to get GREAT fruit from Utah. My mom has been selling from this orchard for years and they are the best and great prices too. I am starting to get my own list together! I will have it available for you to pick up at my house in Chandler, my mom's, or a Mesa location on the 10th or 18th of September. Here's the details!

WHEN: 2 Shipments, September 10th and the 18th!

WHERE: 3 locations! (address sent when they arrive)

PRICES: They've gone down from last years prices - Yay!

$25.00 FOR ANY BOX

Peaches~ 34-36 LBS

Pears~ 38-40 LBS

Nectarines~ 34-36LBS

Gala Apples~ 38-40 LBS

{Less than a buck a pound!!}

$13.00 FOR ANY 1/2 BOX OF ANY OF THE FRUIT

PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT WITH YOUR ORDER OR ANY QUESTIONS BEFORE SEPTEMBER 3RD. I DON'T REQUIRE PAYMENT UNTIL YOU PICK UP YOUR FRUIT, YOUR VERBAL COMMITMENT IS GOOD WITH ME:-)

Let me know if you want some delicious fruit! I have to put in the order by Thursday! :)

Feelin crafty.

2009-08-09T07:54:00.000-07:00

So I got an urge to be crafty last week and it happened to be Rachel's bday. She just started teaching Kindergaten so I thought a cute clipboard would be perfect. I am NOT a crafty person by nature; I have to work real hard at it. I took a while {and lots of mess-ups} to come out with the final product. I think it turned out pretty good! And I think I will make these more often. Go ahead, you can call me Martha.

And I'm back.

2009-07-17T08:06:00.000-07:00

None of my usual excuses, I just haven't been in the blogging mood for about oh, 3 months, but I think it's about that time. Time for a summer update...

First stop, Orlando for our anniversary

Cute little town we drove to with overpriced everything

Orlando Temple, our Sunday activity

I love big trees.

So the reason we even went to Orlando was because we got this time share thing and it was a good deal...we learned our lesson. We got verbally harassed by the sales guy and yelled at in front of a crowd of people. Apparently, they frown on just going for the free stuff, like tickets to Universal, cheap hotel room, and a meal pass for the entire day!

Scary, in more ways than one.

We only used a water camera cause it was raining THE WHOLE TIME. Hence the awful pictures and the even more awful ponchos. Overall the trip was fun, a little too wet for my liking, but still a good time.

Next stop, Coronado Island

We decided to take a day trip over to Cali and go to our favorite spot- Coronado Island! Unfortunately, we are stupid and forgot to check the weather- trying to be spontaneous here people! So all I brought was what I was wearing-a sun dress and my bathing suit underneath. And it was like 60 degrees with NO SUN! So we rode one of these around, (and I use the term 'we' very loosely) ate a delicious cheeseburger, walked and walked and walked (like the pioneer children), tried to buy me a sweater for under 30 bucks, had an awkward encounter with a salesman, didn't look for a sweater anymore, caught the ferry back to San Diego and got on the last flight home. So needless to say, I was freezing all day so this is the only picture you get.

Next Stop, Up North (Show low, Holbrook, Jo Town)

The Fish's were first- we ate delicious birthday cake and enjoyed the lovely scenery/weather.

LOVE their backyard.

Next was Jo Town for the parade, (AKA, all the town children walking or riding their bikes down Main Street.) Pretty fancy.

Then on to the Jo Town festival thingy, where chickens are chased, snow cones are eaten, and much fun is had. Oh, and also Danica gets ditched about every 10 seconds because Brennon knows everyone in this town and has to talk to them. And attractive picture are taken, like this one.

Next, on to Heber for the BEST FIREWORKS SHOW IN THE WORLD!!! I get a little bit excited about it. I just love it- the food, the weather, the people, the AMAZING FIREWORKS! See how excited I am?! Kinda like Brennon in this picture...

Next Stop, the great state of Utar! We went up for Brennon friends wedding reception, which was much more like a nice picnic, so no pictures of that. On to more important things!

We got to meet this little chuck of love, Claire Julliette Park. I love her with all my heart.

And of course the whole Merchant gang as well! Look at all those red heads! They kicked us off the lawn about 5 minutes after this picture, dang temple security.

Claire liked me alot, so she pooped on me. But I did not care, even her poop was cute!

Then she had to get all nakey, and is there anything cuter than a unclothed baby!? I think not.

Can you even HANDLE how cute this is!?

I just love that round face.

Our camera ran out of batteries while we were frantically snapping pictures of the babe. So no pictures of Mel belle. Claire was the focus of the day, for obvious reasons.

Thanks for meeting us Mel, if you ever get blogging and actually read this! :)

So that's basically the last few months in a nut shell. We were going to be going to Scotland at the end of this month, but sadly it didn't work out. We have no dollars. But were going to Hawaii instead! Its less than half as much as Scotland would have been. We are so excited and love all the traveling we are getting to do!

I'll try to not make it 3 months til my next post. Really, I'll try.

Orlando

2009-05-14T10:43:00.001-07:00

Were going to Orlando this weekend for our 2nd anniversary! It's honestly so weird to think we have been married for 2 YEARS! Anyways, anyone have any tips for the Florida virgins?

Baby Shower!

2009-05-07T19:26:00.000-07:00

So i'm so excited for my sister in law to have the twins! I was able to throw her baby shower, with lots of help from her fabulous friends. I admit, I let it consume my life for the past few weeks, constantly seaching for anything red and aqua. I found an adorable theme and just went a little crazy. I think it turned out really good though...

The theme was "Thing one and Thing two" from Dr. Suess since at the time, they didn't know what they were having. Now we know its a boy and a girl! Yay!

We were able to have it at the Wright house since Cara and Evan both worked there.

I like this picture because I told Brennon to take some pictures so he got all artsy on me and did all these angles with the flowers.

Can't wait to meet Olivia and Carter!

Easter

2009-04-13T08:00:00.001-07:00

HAPPY EASTER!

Look at me, I'm posting less than a week after the event! This is exciting people.

Easter was a fabulously fun, relaxing day.

The treats I made.

My awesome aunt, 2 of which are preggo! So excited to meet them.

Egg hunt Extraveganza!

Cutie Kendall. She wasn't too concerned about the photo session I was wanting.

After the eating frenzy, everyone collapsed and watched good ole' Spongebob.

Hottness.

Grandma did a fun question-asking game for awesome prizes. I don't know why she wouldn't call on me...

Finding the egg I hid deeeeep in the bush, she was so proud.

Seesters...

The extremly attractive couple.

Me trying to distract them from going out too early to the easter egg hunt by taking a picture. That only lasted about 4 seconds.

Model shot of Kam. Work it girl.

The whole gang watching the Hunt.

The weather was beautiful and the company perfect! Such a fun day!

Globe Trotters, well U.S. Trotters

2009-03-05T21:04:00.000-08:00

Spring has sprung! And so have the daffodils.

So I've totally been on the outs with my blog if you haven't noticed. Except for the backgrounds; I like to change them cause there pretty and they make me happy.

So we moved! Big shocker there since that seems to be our hobby since the wedding day. This is our 5th move in our year and half as married people and darnit, it has just been a blast. Never really getting settled, never decorating, not to mention the awesome time we get to spend lugging our crap up a flight stairs. Good times.

Not bitter at all.

We DO actually really like our apartment. It is quite the adjustment from the Mansion to the apartment but on the upside, I do feel safer when I'm by myself because theirs no huge, scary, bare windows. And there's a gym that I may use a couple times.

We have had some fun in the past months amidst all the craziness. We went to South Carolina/Georgia a month ago cause it was free and Evan and Cara were going. And we like them. It would be great if I would have brought our camera, glad we bought the thing. We went to the World of Coke in Atlanta and our travel companion, Julie, had her camera so we got some pics there.

We tasted random Coke products from around the world and...

Saw a 4D movie that punched me in the back and sprayed me with water.

Then, for Spring Break we went to Washington D.C.! It really was so much fun. We stayed at the Jones Family Inn (Thanks, Tamee!) for 5 lovely days and saw basically everything DC has to offer. My parents came too, doubling the fun.

So here's the part where I tell you everything about the trip and show you lots of amazing pictures, in no particular order cause im too lazy to figure that out.

On our way to a fun filled day in the city!

My adorable cousin Taryn (Tar-bear) Oh and sorry about the dates on all the pics. It is bugging the crap outta me but I don't know how to get them off! Maybe Brennon will help me with that.

Brennon being a Neandrathal. He sorta fits the part.

Look at those eyes! Lovely cousin Kendall.

Museum of Natural History, but really should be called Museum of Taxonomy. Just a bunch of dead stuffed animals on display.

Some of the crew at the Taxonomy museum.

Honest Abe.

Where they do the changing of the guards at Arlington

Arlington. And the umbrella I'm obssesed with.

View from Robert E. Lee's old house.

Some tom-foolery at the Mount Vernon gift shop. We were too cheap to actually take the tour, much to Dad's dismay.

So the little man you see in front of Hiroshima? That's Flat Stanley. He accompanied us on our trip and insisted he get his picture taken in front of everything. He's so bossy.

I just love these girls. And Garrett, but he was very busy.

This little Garmin Nuvie was our best friend on this trip. Obviously Stanley was pretty fond of her too.

My favorite house we saw. Like, I want to live here, if it wern't for the cold weather and the fact we have no money.

Important documents. In this room, it is extremly stressed that no flash photography is allowed so mom and I were very worried we would accidently let the flash go. Well right as were observing the Bill of Rights, taking in the history, some women (mom) just let her flash go. How rude. She was so embarrased we had to leave right away.

One of the many "Rotundas"

D.C. Temple- It was FA-rezzzing. Not New-York-at-New-Years freezing, but cold all the same.

Contemplating at Jefferson memorial.

The back of the White House

Stanley popping in again.

Cutest couple ever.

Seen enough of the White House yet?

This is Dad and Brennon trying to make me happy at the Air and Space museum. For one, I was at the Air and Space museum. For two, Brennon forgot to charge the battery to the camera.

Me being super awkard as usual. Maybe we should have looked about 2 feet over cause there was where the wall stopped. Dang it.

Cute picture tho.

Resting in the calm Botanical Gardens.

Aww seesters..

And we'll end with this beauty. These are the BEST CUPCAKES in the history of the WORLD! I think about them daily.

So that was our trip in a {large} nutshell.

Not pictured: Falling asleep to a movie every night on the Love Sack, great breakfasts by Tamee, amazing pasta place, being very very cold, beautiful drive up to Mt. Vernon, the National Archives, lots of layers, getting lost ALOT, visiting the National Cathedral, walking through a rally, seeing lots of cool old buildings, visiting Grand Central Station, and generally having a splendid time!

Lots of catch-up

2009-01-27T20:11:00.000-08:00

This month (and last I guess) have been somewhat crazy. So here's a little update from now going back to December....

With this new semester starting, I'm taking 15 credits at ASU East. I'm FINALLY in the Elementary Edu. program. Took me 3 years to get here but hey, whatcha gonna do. I'm still doing the nanny thing and lovin it. Those boys are so much fun. Brennon is working at Frontier airlines and taking one class at CGCC. We see each other for about an hour a day in the morning, 2 if were lucky. He has the night shift right now so he works from 5-1AM and I work during the day...but we do both have weekends totally off so that's nice. This semesters' gonna be ca-razy for me. I'm already overwhelmed. Oh, and we have to move out of the Mansion next month so were trying to find somewhere to rent right now. Good times. Anyways, so that's the update.

My good friend Emaly got married on Jan. 17th to her high school sweetheart Mark. She waited for him on his mission and they are just so dang cute together. It started at the bridal shower, which I don't have pictures of. Then, I got to throw her a "panty party" as we call it.

Cute twiners.

It was way fun. Lots of girl talk and eating and general merriment.

We got to go to their sealing and it was amazing. I just love going to those. And I love that I got married first so I've been able to go to some of them.

Here's us waiting for the lovely couple to come out.

Me admiring the bouquet.

Some of my high school buddies, Joe and Ian.

Aww precious.

Her hair was gorgeous.

Then, on the the reception after a lovely dinner with Traci and Clint. It was so pretty and simple. They had a photo booth outside that was so much fun. We may have taken a few more than we were supposed to.

Oh and this was was so cute and personal. Mark had always "joked" that he wanted a bounce house at there reception. But he was a little serious. So she suprised him and got one!

Just a cute picture of us with G-ma and G-pa.

I threw a little after-christmas recital for all my adorable piano students. The Mansion was the perfect place for it... They all did a fabu-loso job and I wish I didn't have to stop teaching them. Boo school.

My nervous face.

Doughnuts and fruit were served. Four dozen were gonna in like 2.5 sec.

Christmas. It was fun and magical and lovely. We spent Christmas Eve and Christmas morning in the valley with my fam then headed up to Show Low for Christmas day and night with the Fish's. we spent the rest of the weekend up there, eating, playing games, and generally being lazy. I miss that.

Christmas tree. I have big plans for next year.

A wreath I made. It looks better in person cause its all sparkly.

I also started doing Coupon Sense via my madre. She is a consultant FYI. I was a little skeptical at first but after this past week, I am SO excited about it! It's easy to learn and really doesn't take too much time once you get the hang of it. Here are the fruits of my (non)labors...

$75.00 worth of groceries for....

$ 20.00!!!

I've saved over 70% on my grocery bill this month! I know, I know, theres like 20 boxes of wheat thins and I think it will take us a year to go thru all the mustard. But when you can get the wheat thins for .50 cents and the mustard for FREE, why not? I am officially addicted and actually get excited about grocery shopping now. I am constantly competing to try and beat my last trip's savings. It's a bargain lovers dream.

So thats about it. That post took me waaaaay to long.

Big Apple adventure.

2009-01-01T14:46:00.000-08:00

Why is New York called the Big Apple? Anyone?

Anyways, so we went to New York for New Years! It was quite an adventure to say the least. We went without a single plan, except that we wanted to see as much of New York as possible on a very limited budget. Hows that for spontaneous?

(FYI: There is going to be ALOT of pictures and ALOT of details so i don't forget everything by next week.)

This was our first time on a plane together ever! And we didn't even get to sit together...But I didn't care cause I was going to New York!

Here's us waiting at the airport to leave on our red eye flight. Oh, I got bangs by the way. This is the last picture of me actually looking semi-decent.

We both had to sit in the middle seat between two people just 3 rows behind each other. Brennon fell asleep in the first hour; me, on the other hand, did not. It was a continuous cycle of close my eyes, try to find a semi-comfortable position, fail miserably. So, I did not sleep from 11-6 in the morning. Good times.

We actually knew someone on the flight, Rustin Reidhead, Brennon's friend and my blog friend Tara's brother. He was a huge help because he's lived in NY for a year or so. He helped us plan our day and led us in the right direction.

We landed around 6:30 and proceeded to layer up. Listen to this. My wardrobe- 2 pairs of thick socks and thick boots, two pairs of thermal pants, sweat pants, and my jeans, thermal top, long sleeved shirt, sweat shirt, puffy jacket, and longer peacoat, scarf, beanie, pair of normal mittens under a pair of leather gloves and Russian hat thing. I felt like a marshmallow. I sort of killed me to think I was in New York, the fashion capital of the U.S., and this is how I looked. But once I stepped outside, I got over it. I was actually super glad I wore all of that cause I was warm basically the whole day, except for my face.

So the first thing we did was walk over the Brooklyn Bridge, per Rustin's referral. And it was pretty amazing. Awesome views of the city.

It started snowing right around 8 AM and our faces felt like they were gonna fall off. Favorite game- I would do something like a little dance and sing "I'm doing a dance on the Brooklyn bridge, I'm doing a dance on the Brooklyn bridge. What are you doing on the Brooklyn bridge?" And then Brennon would do something and so on. It was fun for a few minutes.

Then we headed over to Wall St. and Broadway. We found this awesome church with a big, super old cemetery in the middle.

Saw the New York stock Exchange building..Lots more security then I thought there would be. This is as close as we could get.

I was excited to see Tiffany's. Oh, how I wish I could shop in you, dear Tiffanys.

The Bull. We weren't all that interested but everyone else was.

We saw this awesome building and it ended up being the Museum of American Indian. I guess that works, Brennon IS a little bit Cherokee.

After all that, we headed over to the Staten Island Ferry, which is we were excited to find out is free! So it's amazing how many people are in NY. It's insane.

We tried out the panoramic setting on our Christmas present. The "shmuggy-ness"(thanks Kayla) didn't help.

The views were beautiful but we couldn't go outside cause it was FA-REZZING.

Then we got to Staten Island and had to catch the ferry back and it took forever. I got bored so I made Brennon wear my scarf as a skirt. He thoroughly enjoyed it.

Some views from the boat...

After that we headed over to Central Park. We were greeted by this crazy Asian man dressed as the statue of liberty. Can you say CREEPY?

Duck double date. We concluded that these were the only ducks that didn't fly south for the winter.

The ice skating rink at C.P. I wanted to skate so bad but it was like 25 bucks a person so we decided to just watch. Maybe next time.

We walked through the big statue park with all the dead writers, you know, the one on Big Daddy and lots of other movies. It was pretty sweet. We ended up here at the Beth-something fountain.

Central Park was beautiful with the light layer of snow covering everything. Huge trees everywhere, horse drawn carriages (we stayed at a distance from those), all the cool old bridges, and half frozen lakes. It was truly like a movie.

After that we headed over to uptown, I think. By the Rockefeller center and all that.

Saw the huge tree in all it's glory. Very much coldness at this point.

It got to be about 4:30 and we realized we forgot to eat lunch. So we searched for a good, authentic, yet non-scary, non-expensive place to eat. FYI, this is impossible. In the area we were at anyways. Oh and did I mention both of our phones died? Well Brennon's was very close to dying the whole time so we were afraid to use it because what if there was a real emergency instead of our food-related one? So after about 45 min. of searching, we settled on TGI Fridays. We did NOT care at this point because we were so famished.

After this, the night progressively started getting worse. Don't get me wrong, we still had a great time. It was just that nothing really worked out for us. We decided not to go to Times Square at 3'o'clock like you have to if you want to get in, just because we wanted to see the city and not stand around for 9 hours. Then we realized there's not much else to do in New York on New years except Times Square. So we tried to get in, but they weren't allowing backpacks in and we had 2. So after a while of trying to think of a plan to get in we decided it was pointless and went to the Rockefeller center. We then caught the Subway and had a funny experience. There was this older lady that kept holding the subway door for people so they could catch it, which your not supposed to do. She then started talking about how much the subways have changed and the she went on to talk about how she didn't do that for money. Then out of nowhere, she starts preachin, starting it with the sentence, "Right before I was about to commit suicide... " I know we shouldn't laugh, but she just kept going and going. Talked/yelled about her marijuana addiction and how Jesus saved her and a whole bunch of other stuff. It was so entertaining. She had absolutely no fear.

Then we went and rode the Staten Island ferry again to see it at night, which was beautiful.

We wanted to go up to the top of the Rockefeller center at midnight to see if maybe we could see the ball drop, but we came back and it was closed, even though we saw a sign that said the last one goes up at 11:10. Whatevs.

So we strolled around some more, froze a little, took the subways alot, and tried to decide what to do.

We then followed the massive herds of people trying to get into Times square. So the actually ball dropping takes place on 42nd/43rd St. By 9 PM, the cops were telling people to go to 59th St. to get in. It was pretty insane. They blocked off all roads getting anywhere close to T.S. So we walked and walked and finally got past all the cops. We were excited for a few minutes until we realized this was taking us to a dead end where they just had a TV showing the Times Square action. Lame. And it wasn't even 11 by then. So we were kinda at a loss of what to do.

So after much deliberation and standing in the cold, we decided to just head back to the airport. There was nowhere to go inside and nowhere really to go outside. So we stopped by Magnolia Bakery and got some DELISH hot chocolate and headed to the nearest subway.

We saw this on the way back.

Then we had to catch like 17 different trains to get where we needed to go. I actually really like the subways, its cool that you can get wherever in the city in a matter of minutes.

So we spent midnight on the subway. haha I still laugh thinking about it. We were in NEW YORK and we spent midnight in the subway system. It was great though. We were so tired from the day it was nice to just sit and relax for a while. Plus, I was running on about 6 hours of sleep in 24 hours so I was about to crash. We got back to the airport around 1:30 and tried to sleep. We didn't get a hotel cause they were SUPER expensive so we figured we could just sleep in the airport.

Bad idea.

Never again shall we do this.

We figured we could find a bench in the warmth of the airport and fall right to sleep. Yeah, there is no benches. And no warmth. So anyways, we tried about 5 different places and got a few hours in there. Caught our flight at 730AM, got to actually sit by each other, and slept almost the whole way home.

Overall, there's a lot we would do different for next time, like, oh I dunno, make a plan. But it was an adventure and really so much fun. New York is my new favorite city. I love the energy, the diversity, the amazing architecture. And the people were so incredibly friendly! We didn't meet one mean or rude person; everyone was so helpful. We think New Yorkers are just misunderstood. Then again, we didn't ride in a taxi.

We also saw Ground Zero somewhere in there, but you couldn't really see much. There's still a long list of places we want to see next time we go like...

1. Empire state building

2. Times Square (sad)

3. 5th Ave- all the shopping!

4. The Met

5. Statue of Liberty-actually take a tour of it

6. Greenwich Village

7. Ice Skate at Central Park or the Rockefeller Center

8. Guggenheim Museum

9. Saturday night live or Dave Letterman show taping

10. Chrysler building

So, we heart New York and had a fabulous trip. We were talking about it last night and realized that we slept in about 7 places in New York. The subways, the air-tran, a table at the Rockefeller center, and about 4 places in the airport. ha, good times.

Hope your New Years was wonderful!

NYC

2008-12-30T07:08:00.000-08:00

Hey blogging world! I have a question for you.

Has anyone out there been to New York in the winter? I would love some tips, places to see or eat, what to avoid, things of that nature. Were leaving tonight on a red eye to be there for New Years eve! I'm a little excited if you cant tell. We'll be there at 7AM tomorrow morning and are just spending the day there and coming back new years day. Yay! And it's basically free! Double yay! So give me what ya got people. Thanks friends.

This is all you get. Sorry.

2008-12-15T23:33:00.000-08:00

I'm a bit of a slacker this year and am not doing Christmas cards. Actually, I probably won't until there's a kid to take the attention off us. So its not that we don't love you. Cause we do.

I'm just lazy.

Kristal did take some pictures of us this past weekend in Joe town and they turned out quite nice, considering Brennon can't open his eyes for pictures and I'm usually a little akward. Kristal is a photography genius.

She also took pics of my family, which turned out adorable.

Yes, it was a very difficult landing in high heel boots.

Just the girlies.

Thanks for all the lovely Christmas cards; they brighten my mailbox full of bills and ads.

Coming soon... the beloved tree!

Thanksgiving

2008-12-03T14:02:00.001-08:00

I was SO excited to be able to have Thanksgiving at our house. I wanted to get all Martha Stewart but sorta lacked the time and talent. But I got to use all the dishes we got for our wedding that I've never used, so that was fun.

I also got to spend the whole morning cooking with Grandma G so that was a blast. She told me lots 'o' stories and taught me how to cook a turkey. I pretty much just stood back and let her do her thing.

The spread. Yes my mouth is watering just looking at it.

The tablescape. I wasn't expecting such a big square table so thats why the centerpiece looks so measly.

I really miss doing floral arrangements. I couldn't wait to make it and being the lame-o I am, I was up at 630 making it, as happy as can be.

The whole crew. We had a couple cousins over later for pie as well, but they dont get to be in the picture. :)

We did this jump about 3 times and my heels are still suffering. My face is obviously lovely.

My mom and I's sad attempt at being crafty. We made, like, 3 and were sick of it. So the rest of them were done with begrudgingly and with alot of whining (mostly on my part).

Then we did my FAVORITE THING EVER!! We put up the Christmas tree! I wanted to put it up 2 weeks ago but Brennon and I settled on Thanksgiving.

(Pictures soon to follow of the fully decorated one. It is pretty much the same as last year.)

Then we got to Skype with the Fish's. I had no idea how cool Skyping is. Our laptop has a camara built in and its free to download so now we can talk to Cara and Evan while there in Europe this Christmas! You can even play games with the person your talking to. Does everyone know about this and I'm just totally out of the loop til now? Anyways, it was a great thanksgiving day.

Then we headed up to Showlow for the rest of the weekend. And for some reason, we never take pictures up there! But we had a great time, just eating, playing games, watching movies, just generally being lazy. There is something about Show low (and the whole nothern AZ for that matter) thats makes me just want to nap all day long. I'm gonna blame it on the elevation. Yeah, thats it.

Good times, good times. Now I'm SO ready for Christmas and all its lovely-ness.

Turkey day.

2008-11-25T18:58:00.000-08:00

Only 2 days away!

I'm soooo excited to be having Thanksgiving at our house this year! Even though the guest list will be short (just my family, grandma & grandpa G, and hopefully some cousins for pie), I'm gonna do it up right. I've been looking online all night (during class!) to find cute thanksgiving-ish decor that is cheap and easy, since I am neither crafty nor rich. Here are some ideas I've found...

Cute little turkey guys.

And these are the place cards I'm gonna use. One of the bottom 2, probably the one with the acorns cause acorns are cute.

A thankful tree! Except mine will be a little (alot) less purple and alot more browns and oranges. Everyone writes things they are thankful for and hangs them on the tree. I found this cute template for the little leaves.

These are cute and simple napkin holder/rings.

I'm also excited cause I'm gonna make a floral arrangement, which is something I love to do. These are my inspiration.

Oh and these are some adorable placemats for the "kids table". I think I'll be sittin there so I can color on these.

And wouldn't it be fun if THIS was your tablescape? Maybe someday...*sigh*

What are some of your favorite ideas??

I'm not sure how much of this will come into frutation but hey, I've got good intentions. Hope everyone has a fabulous Thanksgiving!

Yessss, Puffs tissues.

2008-11-24T19:22:00.000-08:00

1. Memories....so I was thinking today about those three months we spent in Minnesota/North Dakota when we were first married. They were fun and challenging. I remember loving it but also getting verrrrrry homesick. Yep, I'm a bit of a homebody. I'm grateful for my mom's almost daily calls and my aunt Kristal's almost daily emails. They were much needed and I'm not really sure why I thought about it, but grateful-ness is never too late, right?

2. The dreaded cold has hit the Fish household, mostly me, and so I am grateful for the quilt my grandma made us and my box of soft Puffs tissue. They have made me happy and are helping to nurse me back to health.

3. Brennon got the whole 4 day weekend off so I'm so excited to spend the whole weekend together with our families, eating lots of food of course.

Lame-o

2008-11-20T21:48:00.000-08:00

Yeah. I'm not so good at posting everyday.

But in my defense I didn't have a computer alllll week. And it was quite difficult I might add.

And I would really like to post pictures but we (as in you, honey) have not transferred the stuff from our old computer to the new one. So alas, you are forced to have only words that aren't even worded that well. Too bad for you.

1. I'm grateful for our new computer! Our old one would randomly shut down and run out of batteries within 10 min. Good times. It's hard living without the Internet! I have frequented the halls of CGCC this week.

2. My fabulous parents. We went over there tonight to say hi and it just reminded me how lucky I am to have, quite possibly, the best parents ever. We talked and laughed with my mom and went to visit my dad at the new church building (at ten oh! clock, mind you). I just love how he's so excited about the building, the art work, everything. Its endearing.

3. Less than a month left til winter break! 'Nuff said.

Oh, and B is home for good! Yay!

Loving the weekend.

2008-11-16T14:59:00.000-08:00

1. I'm so grateful for my adorable nursery kids. Yes, I'm in nursery. And I actually kinda like it. Imagine that. I do wish that Brennon was in there with me so he could see all the cute things they do. It a fun calling and an added perk: if I forget to eat breakfast, there's always lots of snacks for me to munch on.

2. The pretty flowers Brennon brought home for me on Friday. They are Fall-ish and make me happy when i walk in the door.

3. Sunday afternoon naps. I'm not really lacking in sleep right now but its so relaxing to take a little nap in the middle of the day. I guess I just better enjoy it while I can.

4. The wonderful night we had last night with the King's(the family I nanny for) and my family. We had yummy steak, delicious pumpkin cheesecake, funny conversation, and a game of Cranium where Brennon and I lost terribly. We were not on our game last night. But it was a great night and I'm so grateful for good friends.

5. So i had to do this online assignment yesterday that was really hard cause I had no idea what I was doing. It was about html, making websites, and Java Script (!). So I worked really hard on it and much to my surprise, I got 100%! I was really proud of myself and grateful that I had the time yesterday to do it well.

6. Oreganos yesterday. Pesto pizza, pablo pacasso salad, and pazookie. The 3 delectable p's.

Random note: So Brennon has a real hard time saying no to kids selling things at the door. And we've had 3 in the past 2 days. He bought a magazine subscription from the first one and I had to put my foot down when it came to the cookie dough. He reluctantly said no and walked in looking all sad. It was cute. Then this adorable little girl came to the door with her mom selling her homemade doggy treats. She gave us an adorable little sales pitch and we were goners. We don't even have a dog and we bought some. So if you have cute kids and there doing fundraisers, DO NOT send them here cause were obviously suckers for that. Were gonna run out of money.

He's home!

2008-11-14T21:37:00.000-08:00

1. Brennon's back! I'm such a baby when he's gone. I do ok for the first 2 or 3 days, then I just get grumpy. I'm so glad he's home for a couple days.

2. The fact that he was able to get home on an early flight. He was supposed to get on the 12:30 flight. That was full, or so they thought, and he call and said the next flight was not til 6:30 which would have put him home around 9. But, by some sweet little miracle, 4 people didn't show up for thier flight so the 3 Phoenix guys were able to fly home at 12:30. Yay for little joys like that.

3. Our lovely little date tonight. We had a picnic at Tempe town lake, rode the pedal boats, and went and saw a movie, which is very much like our first date. It was so fun and some much need Brennon-and-Danica-time.

A Question...

2008-11-13T10:01:00.001-08:00

So Brennon and I are planning on traveling quite a bit as you know, when his flight/ hotel/rental car benefits kick in. I have a whole list of places I want to go BUT I'de like to get some suggestions of places (in the US) that you've been to or heard about that are less normal/touristy. Places that are awesome but sort of secret I guess. So if anyone has any suggestions, let me know. I'm getting so excited for this summer and this next month!

I would also love to get a suitcase like these and cover it with stickers from all the places we go!

Party house

2008-11-12T09:25:00.000-08:00

Unfortuantly, Brennon has the computer with his in Denver so I haven't been able to keep up with my gratitude posts. I'm not going to attempt to catch up, just gonna start fresh.

1. I'm grateful that Kayla is staying with me this week in my big, lonely house. And even tho I'm a loser and fall asleep at 10 she still kinda likes me. We've had lots 'o' fun watching movies, eating chocolate and just laughing.

2. I'm grateful that I have to keep my house clean. We have to keep it in "showing condition" at all times just in case someone wants to come see it. It's really helped me gain better cleaning habits like not leaving clothes on the floor, putting the dishes right in the dishwasher, things like that. Hopefully it will translate when I don't "have" to keep my house clean.

3. I'm grateful that I got to go see Madagascar 2 with my fam yesterday. Great movie, Tessa's adorable laughter, my mom and Kayla sitting on each side of me, and all the popcorn I could eat. What could be better.

Catch-up.

2008-11-09T21:21:00.000-08:00

I've been super busy this weekend so now its time to play catch up. The whole weekend I was thinking about things I could write on my grateful list so here I go...

Friday...

1. Time Out! It was so much fun and very much needed. It was kinda like a mini EFY and who doesn't like EFY? The speakers were great but what taught me the most was the music. Hillary Weeks, Cherri Call, Jenny Jordan Frogley, and the cute guy from Jerico Road were all there. It was so fun to be there with my Mil, Sil, mom, grandma, and almost all my aunts on my moms side (we missed you Tammee!). Anyways, it was fabulous. Pictures soon to follow..

2. Brennon's leaving out of town for the whole week today. No, I'm not grateful for that but I am grateful for the fact that he was able to get this job. When he went for his interview, there we 50 people there for 5 open postions. (I'm gonna brag a little.) He was able to make it thru 2 rounds of interviewing and even beat some people who had airline experience. THEN, we just found out a few days ago that because of budgets, they had to cut 2 people from the 5 they had already hired. So he was in the top 3! So I'm pretty proud of him and grateful I got such a wonderful hubby.

3. Cara's curry chicken on friday night. I almost forgot how good it is.

Grateful...ness.

2008-11-06T20:25:00.000-08:00

1. The Office! That show is quite often the highlight of my day/week. Its pretty much the only TV we watch during the week and it never fails to make me laugh. I just wish it was an hour long.

2. Shirts at Target that are 3 dollars! Yes, that's right 3 dollars. I love there 75% off racks, they bring me joy. I can feed my shopping addiction without draining the bank account (too much).

3. The fact that my in laws, grandma and auntie Kristal are coming into town tomorrow! I am so excited and grateful to be going to Time Out on Saturday with all them plus my mom, Cara, and I'm sure lots of other random people. Some much needed girl time and some spiritual upliftment as well.

Good stuff.

2008-11-05T21:16:00.000-08:00

1. Excedrin migrane. Those pills work like a charm for me when those weekly headaches come around.

2. My adorable piano students. Seriously, the 2nd best job. I love seeing these kids every week, helping them, motivating them. There all so cute and fun and have each made such progress since we've began. Now its time to plan a Christmas Recital! I just love it.

3. I'm grateful that Brennon starts his new job next week! He got a job with the airlines and he'll be in Denver for 2 weeks for training. :( BUT, it'll be so worth it. Free flights, great benefits, flexible schedules. We are gonna travel the world this summer! Yay!

Nervous.

2008-11-04T20:02:00.000-08:00

1. I'm grateful for the chance to VOTE. It was my first time being able to participate and what an election it has been. Even though it hasn't gone the way I had hoped, I know we'll be ok. I am nervous about what will happen in this country with our morals and values. I am nervous about Prop 102. But I believe and have faith we'll be ok.

2. Pumpkin pie ice cream with whipped cream and a graham cracker sprinkle. Yum.

3. The fact that all the ANNOYING ads about the props and candidates are OVER! It was getting very old.

Halloween 2008

2008-11-03T14:43:00.000-08:00

We now have a two year tradition of going to the State Fair on Halloween night with Cara and Evan. Its pretty much awesome. Cheaper price+No lines+few kids+greasy food+fun rides=a good time. This year we added Cara's cousin Candice and her husband Troy to our fun tradition

and had a blast./

We decided to be cheap and make Brennon sit in the back so we wouldn't have to pay for parking 2 cars. I don't think he minded it too much.

The Fair!

This is by the Ferris wheel that went on FOR. EV. ER. We spent the whole time taking frightening pictures that no one shall ever see.

Except for this one. Cause its funny.

No fair experience is complete with out a little fried food. I chose deep fried cookie dough. Brennon apparently chose my head.

This is the ONE scary ride I will go on. It freaks me out so much that when I get off, my hands are shaking SO bad. I can only handle it once a year.

I'm also pleased to report that Brennon went the roller coaster with me! I was quite excited about this since he never does. He claims he gets "sick", but I think he's really just a little scared.

The boys also rode the mechanical bull which was very entertaining. I never knew I married such a ham. He had everyone laughing with his theatrics. Cara got a video of it but I don't know how to get it one here at the moment.

We also thought it was hilarious to randomly break out into dancing throughout the night so those videos need to be on here as well.

All of us at the end of a fun night. We tried to use the self timer but it didn't work out too well so we found someone to do the honors.

We had such a fun Halloween night!

And my 3 things for today...

1. Cancelled class tonight! I now get to sit and watch a movie with my hubby. :)

2. How great my job is. I am so grateful for the wonderful family that I nanny for. They are so fun, considerate, and the boys are just plain adorable. They are such great parents and the best people to work for and be friends with!

3. Wearing shorts in November. Can you believe it? Most people don't like it, it doesn't feel like fall, blah blah blah. But I love it. I hate being cold. I'm defiantly an AZ girl through and through.

Haloweeeeeeen party

2008-11-02T14:25:00.000-08:00

So Rachel and I decided we wanted to throw a Halloween party about 2 weeks ago. Living in the mansion, I thought why not. This will most likely be our only Halloween for a veerrrry long time in a house this nice so anyways.... here's some pictures.

Appearances made by:

A flapper and a gangsta.

An amazing chicken costume HOMEMADE by Bethany

Some hippies, a ref and a black cat.

Hugh and a playboy bunny

Cute V-ball star.

70's couple and Lil' Red Ridding hood & her big bad wolf (in some cute pjs I might add)

An Office couple.

Dog the bounty hunter (?) and Obama w/ his nun wife.

And now for the decorations. I hit about 5 bazillion dollar stores and thrift stores that week and spent lots of time on Martha Stewart.com finding ideas. We work ALL day on this and I think it turned out pretty awesome. I don't think the pictures do it justice personally. :) I borrowed stuff from everyone and their mom, literally. So thanks to everyone. I also had lots of help from my mom, Rachel, Kayla, Emaly and of course Brennon.

Spiderwebs, bugs, rats lining the floorboard, LOTS of candle light, and a ton of spooky stuff.

We hung out and talked, played a fun game, ate, talked some more and a few couples stayed to watch The Birds, which proved to be a little more cheesy then scary. All in all a great night but I'm not sure if I'm ready to commit to it being an annual event! Whew!

And now my grateful list of the day:

1. A hilariously funny Family Home "Morning" today. Seriously, we were in tears. I have the funniest family ever. We decided to go around and each say one thing we are grateful about each one of us. It proved to be a little more silly and a bit more like a talent show than anything else. But it was FUNNY. Lets just say dance moves, a 3 year old wink, and some blonde airheads.

2. The laziness of Sundays. I almost always get to take a nap which is one of my favorite things. I love just being able to hang out with family and just relax. Ahhhh.

3. Stake conference. It was cool knowing that everyone in AZ was hearing the same thing and that we were able to here from the GA's more than just at General Conference. I loved the talks and had an added bonus of going at 1:30 instead of 8:00.

The November month of Gratitude

2008-11-01T13:52:00.000-07:00

So I found this on a friends' blog and thought it was a great idea, so I'm gonna copy it, cause thats what I do. I'm hoping to do it everyday but it might be every other day, we'll see. I think during these times is so easy to forget all the good in our lives so if you feel like doing it as well, here are the instructions, straight from her blog...

HERE'S HOW IT WORKS: each day during the month of November I will be blogging (some prefer to send out mass emails to their friends) about three "things" for which i am grateful. the term "things" is used to encompass a myriad of stuff including, but not limited to: a certain set of circumstances, an event, an inanimate object distinguished from a living being, possessions or effects, a deed or act, a product of work or activity, an idea or notion, a piece of news or information, a person, a memory, anything that makes you smile. !!the challenge is to come up with three ORIGINAL "things" each day. try not to repeat entries!!

The blogs should be posted by midnight each night. if you miss a day or two, no biggie, but you have to make it up, no skipping! yes, this may mean accessing your email or blog accounts on a much more regular basis for some of you.

WARNING OF POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS! please note that challenge participation may result in any or all of the following:
- you will be surprised at all the Lord has done for you
- you will feel help and comfort
- you may find yourself singing as the days go by
- your doubts will fly

And to start off here are my three things:

1. I am so grateful for this awesome house we have to live in right now. My aunt and uncle built a spec house and are trying to sell it so we are living in it til it sells, to take care of it and keep it clean. Seriously, this opportunity could not have come at a better time. A week after we moved in, Brennon decided to quit his job, and start a business with some friends. So there is no way we could have done this if it wasn't for being able to live in this house.

2. The fact that my teachers have taken pity on us and not given any major homework assignments this week. I have been feeling a bit overloaded lately so its nice to have a little break.

3. A husband who keeps me from going crazy. If I'm ever stressed out or upset, he always has something positive to say. I'll admit, it annoys me at the time because I just want him to be mad with me, but really it is such a big blessing in my life. He always has a sunny outlook on life and I'm hoping It'll rub off on me someday.

So get on it everyone! I'm already feeling happy! :)

Halloweens gone by..

2008-10-27T11:13:00.000-07:00

So I have been looking through some old pictures and in the Spirit of Halloween, and for your enjoyment, here are some of the gems I discovered.

My revealing Bam-Bam costume. I remember my parents giving me a plastic club as a prop. I also remember me misusing it.

Wow. Well, I think our family did the Wizard of Oz theme this particular year and I obviously drew the short straw, quite literally.

My 6th grade year as an Egyptian/Greek person. I remember thinking I looked so pretty that year.

I believe this was Freshman year. Katie, correct me if I'm wrong, as you are the cute fairy in this photo standing next to some scary goth freak. Celeste, what were you?

And this was 2 years ago when Brennon and I were dating. We got to my parents house and threw some costumes together. As you can see, Brennon was a pimp and I was his army ho.

And last but not least, our first Halloween as a married couple. Brennon was gladly a nerd and I am a biker chick. And when we got to our ward trunk or treat, none of the adults were dressed so we felt pretty cool.

I wish I had some of Brennon's old Halloween pics so Kathy, if you have any, let me know. Especially if they are embarrassing.

This years costumes coming soon...

Happy Halloween everyone!

I like us.

2008-10-22T20:05:00.000-07:00

I kinda love this.

This was when we were dating so it makes me happy everytime I see it.

We got a scanner so I'm pretty excited about that. I know I keep promising posts, but as soon as this crazy weekend is over, you are gonna get some fabulous old and embarrasing pictures that must be shared. Until then, ta ta.

Scentsy Party!

2008-10-15T15:28:00.000-07:00

Just a quick little post to invite you all to my Scentsy party next Saturday. I've never really done a party like this before, like Gold Canyon Candles or Mary Kay or anything like that. But I really love this stuff so I thought it would be fun and more of just an excuse to see everyone. And why not while I'm living in a mansion? So, I would love for any of you to come, blog stockers (if I have any?), friends, friends of friends, family, everyone. Just come get some yummy snacks and check out there awesome stuff. Oh and if your thinking, What the crap is Scentsy??, basically they are really cute ceramic warmers that are super safe and last alot longer than regular candles. There wickless and there are like 100 different scents. Anyways, just check out the website cause I'm no good at explaining things... scentsy.com

Party Details:

"My" house (email me for specific directions): Its on Greenfield just south of Ocotillo

in Circle G.

Time: 11AM-1PM, Come and go

Date: Saturday, October 25th

Your welcome to bring a friend or two!

My email is danigurl7@gmail.com if you have any questions or need directions.

Thanks, hope to see ya all there!

(Real posting to come, promise!)

Things I would post about if I had the internet...

2008-10-01T10:33:00.001-07:00

My madres birthday celebrations
Our temporary house (that I pretty much love)
New crafting endeavours
How ecstatic I am for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and most of all, Christmas.
My cute boys that I nanny and love to pieces
A billion other things we did this summer that I was too lazy to blog about

But alas, I am without the precious source of online goodness. Hopefully, within the next week it will grace us with its presence. But for now, blogging from work will have to do.

Girls night.

2008-09-11T14:40:00.001-07:00

Last week, a bunch of us girls all got together at Paradise to catch up. I just love these girls and the fact that even though we dont see eachother all that much, we can still talk and laugh like the high school days. I have to say that I feel very lucky to have had such great girl friends in high school with little to no "catiness".

This picture is slightly akward because we were using a self timer. And the funny part is, everyone wanted to get one so we had to hold this pose, outside of Paradise for about 10 minutes while all the pictures were getting taken. It was quite the ordeal.

Then a few of us wanted to go see a movie so we decide on Mama Mia, which I had seen and loved. It's definatly a movie that grows on you. In the movie theater we had these girls behind us who were obviously a little drunk, which Im sure made the movie alot better. They were a bit loud which made the whole experience quite interesting.

Sorrry for the revealing nature of this photo, not a good picture. Anyways, such a good time and I hope we can make this a monthly tradition! Oh, and thanks Jenna for the pics!

And on a side note, we just bought tickets for Wicked that comes next summer! I am so excited, although I can't say the same about Brennon. But I have the soundtrack playing around the house so I'm pretty sure he'll be into it by next July. Anyways, just had to share my excitement.

Ohhhh, no.

2008-09-05T08:17:00.000-07:00

I just had to post this. So I don't see Brennon in the morning really cause he leaves at the crack of dawn soooo, when he got home from work, I was very surprised to see this...

I said Ohhhh noooo. Bad idea Brennon.

I know it's a really goofy picture but it shows you how he felt about the whole thing. Very proud of himself. He was growing out his scruff for only 3 days. He's my hairy man.

After this picture, I promptly made him shave it off.

And this is just a picture of my first assignment back at ASU. I'm doing my upper division education courses right now and lovin it. Our first assignment in one of my classes was to make a name tag that described ourselves. I love being in classes where it feels like I'm in 2nd grade again.

Ok, ok.

2008-09-03T23:30:00.000-07:00

"Blog-lazy" would be a good way to describe me the past month. Not a lack of material or lack of time. Honestly, I think about posting almost daily but I get distracted very easily by the evils of craigslist or sometimes I'm just content to blog stock. But tonight I have got the urge to actually post, soooo, I'm going to try to sum up the past month (or two) in one incredibly long post or possibly a couple posts. So here we go.....

Lets start with the 4th of July/my 21st birthday.

First, a scary picture of me. I call it the 'I'm 21 and really excited about wearing a pointy hat' picture.

We went up north to Jo City/ShowLow, as most of you know. I love this tradition and think of the 4th as my second favorite holiday, right after Christmas of course. I just love all the fun stuff going on, the traditions and of course having my birthday right around there isn't all that bad. I love being able to be with all my family on my birthday. I kinda like my birthday, ok?

Anyway, we spent the day trying to find something to do, which can take all day in Jo town, and then we went to my (used to be) favorite mexican restaurant up north. El Ranchos. The service was sloooow and the food, not as good as normal. But I still got to wear the sombrero so thats all that matters.

After all that fun, we went to the most happin-est place in Holbrook; Alco. This place has cured many bored day with its rack of magazines and interesting customers. Like him-

He and his friend needed some money, but instead my dad offered to buy him some a hamburger and fries at McDonalds. He said "How bout a steak burger?" and after that was met with laughter he said "How bout a number 4?"

Then we went back to Grandmas house, hung out , and ate this-

It was delish.

The next day, we headed up to Show Low to hang with the Fish's. We met them at the Showlow parade which was verrrrry exciting.

I would have been ok with it except for the immense amount of horses in it. I'm not a fan of the horses. Most of you know they sorta scare the crap outta me.

Then we went and took Fish family pictures, which were long overdue. And the turned out very nicely thanks to April (and her assistant).

This one was supposed to be our "Band" shot. Its pretty freakin hilarious.

Then we went to another Mexican food place and ate. Then we came home to....

Mike and Kathy's 30th Wedding Anniversary Surprise 70's themed Party!! (whew!)

That was a mouthful.

We, meaning Evan, Cara, Trevor, Brennon, and I, along with many cooperating aunts, uncles, sister, moms, ect., put together a little party for them. It turned out really well and I wish I had more pictures from it. Sad. But it was really fun and they actually had no idea it was coming! Go us!

I do have this scary picture that looks like I'm pregnant, but I'm not, I assure you. It was just a Savers/70's costume attempt gone terribly wrong.

I'm sorry you had to see that.

I also have this in the moment shot of Mike and Grandpa Fish.

Later, I got another birthday cake which was also delish.

That night, we headed over the the Heber for the best fireworks show EVER! Seriously, I look forward to this every year. The Tenney's house is the perfect spot to watch them and it is always sooo good to see everyone. The fireworks are like right above you and the canyon makes them echo. Really, its the greatest thing ever. Ok, I'll stop obsessing.

This is the only picture i have from this blessed night so thats all ya get. Sorry. Oh, and I'm also looking a bit prego in this picture, but again, I assure you, I am not.

Ok, I was gonna do more but I am sleepy so this will have to do. Mexico is comin up next!

2008-08-24T13:06:00.000-07:00

THIS IS DANICAS MOM, ONCE AGAIN, TRYING TO GET HER TO BLOG!

Danica is really not too busy to blog, she just has become "blog-lazy". Sure she has two jobs, is trying to pack up to move and working hard being a good wife and daughter, but really. You cant spare a couple of minutes???

So glad she didnt log out of her blog at my house and left, so I can write freely, the feelings everyone is having about Dani's lack of blogging.

(by the way Dani, that took me approximately 2 minutes:-))

To my fellow bloggers,

2008-07-29T09:08:00.000-07:00

Very sorry for my lack of posts. Summer school will be over in a week and I will be back to posting as normal, which translates to about once a week. Thank you for your continuing support.

Yours truly,

The loser author of this blog

23 loooonnnggg years.

2008-07-12T23:54:00.001-07:00

I'm pretty sure they were happy years. Today was my parents' 23rd wedding anniversary! They are the happiest couple I know and such fabulous parents. Almost every year for the past 5 years or so they forget thier anniversary and remember about a month later and have a good laugh about it. But they remembered this year! Yay for them. Love you guys!

More posts of the 4th and such to come....sometime soon.

2008-07-02T06:35:00.000-07:00

Today we are heading up north, A.K.A Joe City, Showlow, and Holbrook, for the 4th. I am very excited to get out of this nasty heat and do the traditional 4th of July celebrations, as we were in freakin Minnesota for last years' happenings. I'm also excited to turn 21! Brennon's present to me has been sitting on our table for the last 24 hours and I have attempted to look inside about, oh every hour. He knows I have no patience, why would he do this to me? He said it was to teach me restraint. What is he, some martial arts instructor? I think it's just mean.

Hope you all have a fabulous 4th of July!

Shopping endeavors.

2008-06-26T15:45:00.000-07:00

So I am kind of in love with this little store called Plato's Closet. Its a "previously owned" store, kinda of like Buffalo Exchange or Last Chance, except its the cheaper of the 3. Its filled with Forever21, Express, Gap, Old Navy, Hollister, American Eagle and even has some designer jeans for way cheap. It mostly all in good shape and there is always a TON.

Anyways, I may have mentioned this before because I have been in love for quite some time. But sometimes I forget about it and then go running back, begging for forgiveness. I promise I will never leave you again, dear Plato's.

I have been very much bored because Brennon has been out of town since Monday. And when I get bored and lonely, I shop. It comforts me. But I am a bargian shopper so I justify it that way.

Back to Plato's. I went there yesterday just to look, maybe buy a shirt or two. I end up trying on like 25 items. I narrow it down to ten. And narrow it down some more. I end up purchasing 5 shirts, one dress, and 2 necklaces all for...........

35 bucks!

Yeah, be impressed. Three of the shirts and the dress are Forever 21 and 2 are from Express.

I was pretty excited about this. Just pretend that you are.

Anyways, just wanted to share. Its on Alma school and Warner. Be prepared to search and spend a couple hours there.

Ah...... Danicas H.S. buddies

2008-06-23T23:12:00.000-07:00

The cutest girls ever

I miss the olden days when these cute girls graced my home

and eat all my food

Come back

Love,

Come back!!!

2008-06-20T17:31:00.000-07:00

My sister Kayla has been on tour with Light for like 2 weeks and I want her to come back! I miss her! I don't know what I'll do when she goes to freakin BYU.... Maybe I can convince her to stay this year. Or get a boy to. That would probably be more effective.

Happy Dad's day!

2008-06-15T20:06:00.000-07:00

Happy fathers day to my daddy, William Randall Guttery, AKA Bill.

He is, I must say, the best dad out there. He has lived in a house with 7 girls and he actually enjoys it (most of the time).

He is one of the hardest workers I know. He is always serving people or looking for people to serve or talking about serving people.

He always supports us in everything we do. He would stay up late with us working on school projects, get us up early and help us some more. He was at every recital, every game (ha), and every school function.

He loves his family and would do anything for us.

He has a special place in his heart for his mom. She can do no wrong in his eyes. We like to tease him about it but it's really sweet and I hope my boys are like that.

He never sleeps. Really. I don't know how is is walking sometimes. My favorite ongoing quote for my dad- "It'll run it's course". This is what he say whenever he's sick or has something wrong.

He is so great to my mom. Even after 22 years of marriage, they still like to cuddle and they are always doing things for eachother. I can only hope to have a marriage as wonderful as there's.

He would always take me on Daddy daughter dates and those we be like the highlight of my week. He would also take me to work with him alot and take me out to lunch. He is the funniest person to be around and is so funny!

He makes AMAZING BBQ chicken.

He puts up with ALOT.

He is always positive about everything. I'm sure he probably just laughed when Tessa spilled water all over him here.

He's such a people person. Everyone who knows him has the highest opinion of him. He would do anything for anyone.

He has been Bishop or in the Stake presidency for alot of my life and has been such a great example to me in the gospel. Even if he would be up til 1 waiting for me to get home, he would still be up at 5 in the morning for all his meetings. That's dedication.

Hahaha. I just like this picture.

hahaha and this one.

He is so great with kids and has a soft spot for babies. I can't wait to see him with our kids. (His grandkids! Does that freak you out dad?!)

This is my parents wedding announcment picture. I had to take a picture of a picture so sorry about the glare but I had to put this on there. I'm likin the purple.

This is one of my favorite picture of the wedding time. This is when we were leaving after the reception and he just couldn't let me go yet. He always makes me feel so special and loved whenever I talk to him and I know I can call him for anything.

I'm sure there is a ton more I could say but I'll stop myself right now. I love my daddy!

I also have a fabulous father in law. I was so blessed to marry into the family I did. Brennon is the wonderful man he is alot because of his dad. Mike is a hard worker and I have never heard him complain about anything. He works at the power plant up north and has overhaul where he works like 70 hours a week a few months out of the year. He has the greatest attitude and is always quietly serving people. He s a man of few emotions, much like the man I am married to but he everyone who knows him can feel that he loves them. Everyone likes him and his sense of humor is quietly hilarious. He is always willing to help us with anything, like our taxes this year and our road trip last summer. He's a great dad and a great husband! Thanks for raising such a great guy for me!

Oh and this a little piece of my mom's blog talking about my wonderful dad, i think on his birthday. I thought it was really sweet and it perfectly describes him. I'm so glad I have such great parents that love each other so much! ...

"...He has so much love for EVERYONE and that is so attractive to me. He's not a real romantic guy, not sentimental and sometimes forgetful with special dates, but he is a constant in this quality of LOVE. Everyone is important to him and you wont hear him say a mean word about anyone, a true word, maybe, but not mean. In our dating days I remember going to the rest home his Grandma Randall was living in. The moment we walked in he was taking care of her. First he asked her if she needed help with her hair and he brushed her hair for a long time. She said "Dont be afraid, a little harder". I think she liked a good scalp massage, he must have got that from her. Then he helped her with her make-up, but he had me when he flossed her teeth. I know, sounds gross, but he was very thoughtful and humble. I also remember when I went to the singles ward with him for the first time and there was a family (the only family there) and they had some little children. We had just sat down and one of the little girls came to him and he picked her right up and held her the whole meeting (it could have been a set up, but it worked). At first when we were dating and would go to a drive-through, I noticed he REALLY talked to people, asked them how they where, if they liked their job, did they have any extra fries hanging around. I thought he was a good flirt, but the more I went places with him, I realized it does the same thing with old men, young boys, moms and really anyone. When we got married my family imediately bonded with him and it was almost like I was the in-law. He's known to honk at anyone and everyone. The kids use to let it annoy them, now they honk and wave at anyone too. He's still the same way, people say to him "you must be running for mayor" (which is a whole other story), but he does want to talk to everyone and let them know he loves them. I feel the same way about people, but he has a special way of making other know he means it. I love how nothing is impossible and he always looks for the good in things. He is the most possitive person I know anywhere, and its helped me, through the years learn to look at life through different eyes. Ive said it before, when Im upset or down, I can now fake myself out of it by being possitive. I love learning from him and I know I really got lucky when Bill Guttery asked me to spend our eternities together."

Roughin' it.

2008-06-12T22:51:00.000-07:00

We have been doing quite a bit of camping this past month. Well, more than I have ever done in my life. Our trips MAY have lasted less than 24 hours each, but I think that is what made them fun.

We could have fit another bag huh.

We went with Cara and Evan AND there two dogs, Maggie and Sophie. I'm not a huge dog person but these dogs are very lovable. Except for the fact that Sophie kept farting the ENTIRE TRIP. It was pretty hilarious. And nasty.

Sophie is pretty much his new girlfriend.

We went to a lake right past Thatcher and Safford, I can't remember what its called right now. But it was fun and the weather was pretty nice. This the boys setting up the tent and me watching. I like to be as helpful as possible.

The food has got to be one of the best parts. We brought a Grill-to-Go which is basically the best thing ever. It made camping taste good. We brought tons of food and of course ate it all.

When it started to get dark, we retreated to the tent and played some games. Brennon just wanted to go to bed.

At about the crack of 5, the dogs were barkin like crazy and come to find out, Cara and Evan have gotten about 2 hours of sleep because of the dogs. As Cara was trying to put Sophie into "submission", Brennon yells, half asleep, "Finish her!" real loud and it was basically the best quote of the trip.

So, we got up around 5, very unwillingly and started breakfast. It was deliciousness.

Question: Why do the containers for tents NEVER fit the tent back into it? What is the point of that? It seriously took all 4 of us to get that stupid thing back in there. Well I was just taking pictures, but still.

Anyways, it was about a 16 hour trip but a fun one at that.

Our next Camping trip was this past weekend. We went with Kristal and Jason, their kids, and the Biddle family, which we met once we got there.

I always forget to take a picture of our tent, but just use your imagination.

We hung out, had some yummy Hobo dinners, and told ghost stories around the campfire. It was pretty sweet. We purchased an awesome air mattress so we slept like babies that night. Then we woke up and the boys went fishing at the lake. We hung out and made a fire without matches, because we are HC (hard core) like that. I was in charge of breakfast and made a white trash breakfast which entails throwing every breakfast food into tin foil and cooking it in the fire. The first batch was good but the second batch....I don't wanna talk about it.

Then we took a nap.

After that, we decided to go on a canoe trip (from heck). We piled me, Brennon, Kristal, Jason and there 3 kids into a regular sized canoe. I was sure we were gonna tip. We traveled for what seemed like FOREVER while singing obnoxious songs to the nearby fishers. We finally got to this beautiful green belt. Kristal and I layed out while the boys fished. I have never fished before so Brennon wanted to teach me. Yeah....I lasted about 3 minutes. Fishing is boring.

Me in action.

3 minutes later.

Brennon, unfortunately didn't have too much luck in the fish department.

The kiddos. Cute little Boston bum.

It was gorgeous there and even though the weather wasn't so great, it was still fun.

Then we got back into the canoe and started the journey back. The wind wasn't our friend so it over an hour to finally get back to shore. Good times.

Adorable.

Then we got back and hung out some more and had dinner. Then we left. Except for the wind, it was an awesome trip! Hopefully we can go again soon!

The best trip ever!

2008-05-28T08:27:00.000-07:00

....That's what I kept saying the whole weekend. It was such a fun weekend getaway! We decided to do something for our anniversary like a couple days before and just kinda threw it together. I really wanted to stay at a Bed and Breakfast but apparently you have to book those more than 3 days in advance. So we stayed at a Country Inn and Suites, which wasn't too bad. We left Friday afternoon and spent that night just hanging out at the hotel. Then we got up early-ish and left for Coronado Island. I am officially in love with this place. It is SO beautiful and the weather was so great. The only bad part about whole day was going over a massively long bridge to get there. I'm not a big fan of bridges. But other than that, I'd say it was a perfect day.

All morning, there was tons of fog by the beach so we rented bikes and rode around the island for like 4 hours. It was so fun cause we have never rode bikes together and it was such a beautiful place to do so. Everything is so green and pretty and the houses are AMAZING. Seriously, like every other house I was like, "Look Brennon!"

I got the pink bike, which I was very excited about.

The view from the island.

One of the pretty houses.

I was amazed that there were flamingos just hangin out at this really fancy hotel.

Brennon got very burnt feet. It was sad, but also hilarious. I'm sure you all wanted to see a picture of Brennon's feet.

The fog cleared up so we went to the beach. The water was freezing so I opted to stay on the beach. It was such a gorgeous beach, the sand even had like specks of gold in it. Maybe that's why every one's so rich there.

This face kills me.

I eventually got in the water and we also went down to where there was little tide pools. I found this awesome shell that actually was a crab. And this obnoxious kid stole it from me! I was not happy about this.

We left Coronado, sadly, and were trying to decide what to do. Then, we brilliantly decided to go to Sea World because they have this thing going on where if you buy a normally priced ticket, you get the whole year FREE! How great is that? So since the next day we would have to leave before the fireworks, we went to see them. They were kinda disappointing. But we also got to go to the Shamu night show. We made a very big mistake.

Don't ever sit on the 3rd row at the Shamu show. NOT a good idea.

I heart Shamu. Seriously, the whole time we were there, we were amazed at what they could teach animals to do.

The next day, we headed to Sea World again. I'm pretty sure we saw everything Sea World had to offer. Loved the sea lions.

Another tip: Don't sit on the 5th row at the dolphin show. I didn't think dolphin would splash all that much, but we got even more wet than we did at Shamu. One more tip: Always wear your swim suit to Sea World.

Brennon was such a good husband and went on the rollercoster with me, even though he gets sick on them. But he didn't get sick so that was good.

We also went on the water rapid ride and got soaked yet another time. I was so scared that the disposable camera that all these pictures were from was ruined because it got pretty wet. But somehow it didn't. Yay! Other good news- we found our digital camera under the couch! Yay again!

It was an amazing trip and now we are determined to someday have a house on Coronado. It was so great just to be able to be together all weekend and celebrate!

We made it thru a whole year!

2008-05-27T22:04:00.000-07:00

Are you surprised? :) I'd say things are even better than when we started, if that is possible. We understand somewhat of how each other work, what bugs one another, whats makes us happy and pretty much have just had a ton of fun. Of course things aren't perfect, but it definitely gets better everyday.

Ok, I just wanted to put down a couple of random reasons why I adore my husband and some of my favorite pictures of the past year. Get ready for a whole crap load of pictures.

*He always lets me park in the covered space that is basically right in front of our door while he sometimes has to park quite a ways away.

*He tickles my back and face when I have a headache because it relaxes me.

*He almost always does the dishes.

*He is predictable, but in a good way.

*He's always the first to say he's sorry.

*He does dumb things just to make me laugh and one time, told me how important it is that he is funny to me. And he makes me laugh everyday.

*He puts up with ALOT.

*When we were away for the summer, he would indulge me and celebrate our monthly anniversaries. One time he got me pizza and some new perfume and one time he cooked dinner for me.

* He's dang cute! I love his strong chin and squinty eyes.

* He leaves me sweet little notes when I least expect it.

*He is always trying to do things for me.

*He makes me completely loved everyday!

And here's some of my favorite pictures of us over the past year, in no order...

When we got our marriage license.

Before we were engaged, at my best friend Rachel's wedding. We got into a little spat this evening.

At my best friend Melanie's wedding.

My little sister Tessa adores him and I just love this picture. The other day I went over to my parents and I was talking to Tessa. I told her that Brennon wasn't there cause he was lame and she said "No he's not, he's sweet!" She is his biggest fan.

These two pics were taken by my aunt Kristal before we were even engaged. I LOVE them.

Cardinals game fun.

1st Halloween as a married couple. We went to our ward party and we were like the only adults dressed up.

Christmas temple lights.

Our very first Halloween where we threw our costumes together at the last minute.

New Years Eve at Evan and Cara's. Brennon was very tired.

Our first and last cabin trip. :(

A freaky picture of us at the county fair over a year ago.

The picture that was on our wedding announcement.

At Mt. Rushmore.

Our first apartment!

State Fair on Halloween with Evan and Cara

Our first beach trip!

First Guttery family picture!

One of my FAVORITE pictures of Brennon.

At the Mall of America this summer.

And lots of fun wedding pictures. We had the best photographers, my aunt Kristal and Sloan photographers.

They had to lift me over this fence so we could get into the field!

I LOVED my shoes! They are so vintage and fun and they were only like 30 bucks!

I also loved my flowers. They were different but beautiful.

These were supposed to be our model faces. I just look mad and Brennon looks like Zoolander.

When I first got my ring, Brennon would catch me just staring at sometimes. I love it so much and I am still very in love with it. Sorry girls, but I think mine the prettiest. :)

Sorry for the picture overload. But I had alot of fun going through alot of our wedding pics again. Its so weird to think a year ago at this time we were heading up to Minnesota to try and make money, try being the key word. :) I am so happy I married Brennon Wayne Fish. He makes life so fun everyday and is such an example to me in every way. Happy Anniversary to us!

100 things about yours truly

2008-05-21T12:38:00.000-07:00

...Or just random thoughts from the brain of me. I still haven't finished the roll of film with the pictures from Cali so I decided to post this instead. I've been working on this for a couple of weeks now because I saw it on my sister-in-laws blog a long time ago and have been wanting to do it. I thought it would be easy but it turns out I'm not all that exciting. I had to stretch on some of these. Brennon thinks its a bit egotistical, but isn't that the main purpose of blogging, to talk about yourself? He doesn't blog so I don't consider his opinion valid on this issue. I do consider this perhaps, a fun little read for my future little ones. I'm fully aware that probably only my mom will get through all this. But, if you have some time to spare, go ahead and learn a little more about mu-uah.

Here it goes...

1. I love the color yellow.

2. I feel like I'm an organized person but not a necessarily neat person, if that makes sense.

3. I love to make lists. To do lists with little boxes next to them I can check off, lists of people if I'm planning a party, lists of how much I have left of school...you get the idea.

4. When I was in junior high, I went through a phase where I would come home and for a snack every day, i would cut up a cucumber, put it in a circle around a plate, put a little salt, pepper, and Italian dressing on it and consume. Weird, yes.

5. After spending every night together for a week, the question I asked Brennon was "So, am I like your girlfriend?" Smooth huh. I'm sure he wanted to run.

6. I am currently obsessed with edamame, yummy and addictive soy beans with sea salt.

7. I talk in my sleep.

8. If i could pick a place to have a shopping spree it would probably be to Forever 21.

9. I've broken my arms 4 times. How you may ask? Horse, trampoline, monkey bars and roller blades. Never at the same time, thankfully. But now my arms' all freaky. It makes for a cool party trick.

10. Least favorite household chore-dishes. My poor husband definitely picks up my slack there.

11. Brennon and I kissed (technically) on our first date!

12. I love cute aprons but I am horrible at cooking.

13. In high school I was on the tennis team and actually went to regionals. But that was kinda just because we didn't have very many people on the team. I think I beat like one person. You all know how sporty I am.

14. If I could have any car in the world it would be a Mini Cooper. Ever since The Italian Job I have been in love.

15. I don't necessarily pride myself in having the best taste in music but I guess who's to say what the best taste is. I will pretty much listen to whatever kind of music except twangy country and metal. And scream-o.

16. I wear contacts and hate every moment of it. Someday, Lasik. Ahhh...

17. Drink of choice would be Dr. Pepper, especially if its been in the freezer for ten minutes.

18. I secretly really want to have a party where everyone wears their wedding attire. Mostly just because I really want to wear my wedding dress again.

19. I have kissed or been kissed by 14 guys, 2 of which I can't remember their names. How sad is that? And why did I just admit to that.

20. Brennon's count is 8 but to his defense, that was basically all the girls in his town that he wasn't related to.

21. Cereal of choice: Apple cinnamon Cheerios or if I'm going a little crazy, rice crispy TREAT cereal. yummmm...

22. I love getting mail. It's probably one of my favorite things. So, if you ever want to make my day, just send me something. Anything really, except a bill or credit card application.

23. I pretty much can't go through a day without talking to my mom.

24. Marriage is hard sometimes. Big shocker, I know.

25. That being said, this year, as our one year anniversary has just past, has been the most fun, exciting, and greatest year of my short life. And everyday really does just get better. I wouldn't believe people when they said that but I can see now that it's totally true.

26. I can't decorate or visualize things in my head. That's why I was given friends and family members who can.

27. If I could have one skill it would be to dance. I love dancing but as many of you know, it's not a pretty sight. It has more of a "cute" and laughable entertainment value.

28. Favorite accessory: earrings

29. Thursday nights are my favorite because my 2 favorite shows are on; The Office and Lost.

30. I have a towel thing. I hate using a towel that is a little damp to dry off. So there is inevitably 20 towels hanging over our door by the end of the week.

31. The movie Newsies made me fall in love with Christian Bale. Batman then confirmed the love.

32. Tyra Banks is annoying but I find myself sometimes watching her show. Like a fly to a light bulb.

33. I love planting things. I think I have mentioned this before but I seriously think everyday about the lovely garden I will have someday and I'll be able to go to my backyard to get our veggies for dinner or spices for a meal or a beautiful fresh bouquet of fresh flowers.

34. We all have irrational fears. Something that will most likely never happen or in my case probably has never happened. My irrational fear is when someone puts the butt of there cigarette out the window and the little ashes come and go under my car, that the heat from the ashes will somehow reach the gas in my car(Or the gas on the ground) and light my car on fire. Yeah its pretty ridiculous. But seeing that little butt coming out the window never ceases to scare me.

35. Wow, I'm getting kinda sick of this...

36. I enjoy reading people's blogs and waste, I mean spend, a lot of time doing it.

37. I haven't legally changed my name yet. Even though my mother in law got me this nice little packet that has all the paper work in it and I basically just have to fill it out and go downtown to the office thingy and hand it in, I still have not done it. It's on my lovely to do list with the box sadly still unchecked.

38. I love writing and receiving notes from people, especially my hubby. I guess its the junior high girl still inside me.

39. The furthest place I've ever been from AZ is Florida and the Virgin islands on a cruise with my family.

40. I would LOVE to go to Europe, especially Scotland and Italy, and also Australia. Maybe someday.

41. I am deathly afraid of horses and probably freaked out this blind date once by almost refusing to take the carriage ride down Mill because of the massive horses. I gave in but I had to sit as far away from them as possible. Needless to say, I never saw him again.

42. Once in high school, my friend Emaly and I decided we wanted to try all the flavors of Ben and Jerry's ice cream. So we made a list and checked them off every time we tried a new one. We never finished but I'm hoping, one fine day, it will happen.

43. I love to bug Brennon. He is a man of few emotions so I have to work really hard to get him fired up, so I feel pretty accomplished after I've done it.

44. I used to work at Jamba Juice and I liked it for about the first week.

45. I have a special skill. I can memorize song lyrics like no body's business. My friend Rachel is about the only one that recognizes this skill so I like to hang out with her.

46. On the subject of Rachel, she has been one of my best friend since freshman year but we never went to the same school. We attribute that to the longevity of our relationship. She is such an amazing friend and we have many a good times together. And now our husbands are friends! How fun is that?

47. I changed majors 3 times before deciding on education. First I wanted to be a music therapist, then I wanted to get a political science degree (What would I have done with THAT??)

and then I wanted to be a florist, which will still hopefully happen someday.

48. I have a love/hate relationship with Walmart. I hate it because its trashy and it smells weird, but it's hard for me to resist the low prices and friendly greeters at the doors.

49. I have gotten pulled over 3 times and only got one ticket. Oh the power of women...

50. Half way done!!

51. I love big trees and want to settle down in a neighborhood where trees line the road and hang over it. I don't know if that exists in AZ but if it does, I will live there.

52. I loved pretty much every thing about my wedding, except that Brennon was sick on our reception night. Everything else, pretty dang perfect.

53. My parents worked so hard the yard to get it ready for the wedding. I can remember my dad being out in the yard til 11 PM and my mom inside with me keeping me sane. I have the best parents.

54. Right before I got engaged, I was excepted to be an EFY counselor at NAU. Then I got engaged.

55. I did get to be a counselor at the mini session in Snowflake and it was SO much fun.

56. I have been "clubbin" once in my life. It was a funny experience.

57. Isn't funny when your sitting in class and someone sneezes and like everyone says "bless you" almost in unison? This happened like everyday in one of my classes but I was the only one who thought it was funny. Anyone? Anyone? Bueller?

58. I got mostly A's and a few B's in high school until my stupid government teacher wouldn't round up my 79.5 to a B. I'm still a little bitter.

59. I hate blowing my nose in front of people.

60. I've read about 4 books in the past year, 3 of them being the Twilight books, yet I could spend hours in Barnes and Noble.

61. I'm trying really hard to love my calling in the cub scouts.

62. I cry a lot. I mean A LOT. Like I cried when Brooke White got kicked off American Idol. And just the other day, I cried during an episode of Friends.

63. I used to work at Bashas in High school. Me and my friend Melanie both got a job there and one night, when we were closing together, we thought it would be fun to steal all the donuts and cakes that were expired that we had to take out to the dumpster. So we devised this plan which involved her driving her car around the back and me throwing the bags in the back seat as she drove by. I laughed very hard that night.

64. I absolutely hate blow drying my hair but I can't go a day without washing it because it gets greasy. The curse of thin hair.

65. I am loving being able to get in my car at 8:55 and making it to work by 9:00. My job is awesome and I get my baby/kid fix!

66. The little boy I nanny loves Bob Marley. Keep in mind, he's 2. I have the best job ever.

67. I also have the best family in the world, both sides. How did I get so lucky?

68. I wrote faithfully to a missionary for 2 years and didn't end up marrying him, but I don't regret it at all. It taught me a lot about myself and the gospel.

69. I cannot for the life of me keep a pair of sunglasses. They either are broken or lost within one week. So I now buy 5 dollar glasses so I don't feel as bad when something happens to them.

70. I love shopping except when I'm looking for something in particular.

71. I've been to 12 states, 5 of those just this summer.

72. I'm a flip flop girl, I only wear heels when absolutely necessary.

73. I was the ball girl for the Suns when I was 12 and the gorilla guy picked me up and ran me around the gym with me. I felt so cool.

74. I wish I was better at sending thank you notes, like Grandma Doris.

75. All of our furniture in our house is hand-me-down except my piano that I got for graduation.

76. I LOVE my piano. We got it from this old couple my senior year for pretty cheap and its really pretty. Someday I want to have a cherry wood baby grand piano. I literally hyperventilate when I see one.

77. I love love front porches. And hammocks.

78. I could never live anywhere cold. I love Arizona and would way rather be too hot than too cold.

79. Brennon takes really long showers, like way longer than me. It's his "thinking time".

80. For some reason, I cry when plays or performance are over, even when there not sad. I think its because in junior high I was in the play and so I (on a very small scale) know how much work goes into it so I get emotional. I am such a dumb girl.

81. I'm really excited to have kids some day. For some reason, the only day I get really baby hungry is Sunday, probably because there are super cute babies in our ward and I want to take one home with me. The other days of the week, I can wait. So I'm thinking, until I want one everyday of the week, we will hold off.

82. Brennon and I's first kiss was a little awkward. A strand of my hair fell in front of my mouth so he got a little bit of a hairy kiss. We reenact it quite often and it is hilarious each time.

83. I used to have a baby blue Hyundai Accent. It was baby blue because of a deal that was struck between my parents and I; I thought the car was really ugly and I didn't want it at all BUT it was really cheap. So my parents said that if we got the car, I could get it painted whatever color I wanted. Don't ask me why I chose baby blue. The interior was still the forest green so it was really classy, as you could imagine.

84. I love this band called Mates of State. They are this married couple that the girl plays the keyboard and the guy plays the drums. My friend Lisa introduced me to them like sophomore year and they are so cute and there music is really fun and different.

85. I am obsessed with the smell of Home Depot. I think its the wood and soil smell combined or something. And this works out good because Brennon has an obsession with Home Depot in general so we both win.

86. I have 8 discs of just wedding and engagement pics. There's over 800 I'm sure. Little overkill, don't you think?

87. I don't get it why everyone loves Amy Winehouse so much. She's a bit scary and I don't think she's that great. Sorry Kristal.

88. I love flowers. Really, I get excited when i see tulips and I could spend hours looking at bouquets online. Someday, I would love to do weddings.

89. I'm really bad at sticking to diets. I have no problem going to the gym on a regular basis now but it kinda cancels out when you go home and eat a pint of Half Baked.

90. I went to an Avril Lavign concert my junior year with my friend Melanie and we had crappy seats so when the lights went down, we hopped over the little fence and ran into the crowd, with security guards chasing us and everything. We lost each other so it took us the next hour to actually be able to enjoy the concert. It was probably one of the most daring things I've done. I'm kinda lame like that.

91. I have to force myself everyday to drink even one bottle of water because if I don't I get really bad headaches.

92. I can make 3 things pretty well now- chicken tortilla soup, banana bread and chicken enchiladas. So those are our 3 main food groups.

93. My sister Kayla is one of the funniest people I know. We used to fight quite a bit about clothes and stuff growing up but now if I wasn't married and she didn't want to go up to BYU(boo), I would totally love to room with her.

94. I always thought I would marry someone musical but I fell in love with Mr. Sporty spice. Interesting how things work out.

95. I'm kinda still in love with my wedding ring. I know, I know , get over it already, right?! Its just so pretty and sparkly.

96. Whew, is this over yet?? ok, ummm... So I love that Brennon and I's humor is so dumb and silly most of the time and that we both somehow think we are hilarious. But I dont think anyone else would think we are remotely funny.

97. I hate going over long bridges. Ever since that bridge went down in Minnesota, I have been freaked out. Any of you ever been on the bridge going to Coronado island? My worst nightmare.

98. I still remember when my aunt Kristal got married how not happy I was. I mean I was happy that she was happy but we were buds and this Jason dude was stealing her away from me! I kinda I like him now and they have adorable kids so I guess it all worked out :) Its funny cause I remember writing in my journal when I was like 12 or whatever, "It's like I'm losing my best friend." I was a bit mellow dramatic. I guess not much has changed.

99. I love going to bed at 9:30 and not feeling like a loser. The first couple months of marriage, we would stay up late most nights and then, real life hit.

100. Last but not least, I have to stress how freakin amazing my family is. If you already haven't been able to tell. I have the bomb-est husband, the rockin-est parents, the most splender-ific sisters, the coolio-est in-laws and the awesome-est extended fam. Do you like all the words I just made up? I had to do this because normal words can not describe there tubular-osity.

Anyways, I know that was a bit much for you all to take in at once. Hopefully you read it little by little as not to get a Danica overload. So, thanks for reading my life.

Bye.

Better late then never...

2008-05-16T08:39:00.000-07:00

Ok so Mothers day was 8 days ago. So sue me. I've been attempting to get a post up since Sunday but it just hasn't quite happened yet. And by attempting, I mean thinking about. We just got back from Cali last night on our 1 year anniversary trip!(how did this happen?) We went to Coronado Island and Sea world to celebrate! Anyways, enough about us, (I will post about that later because we lost our camera and had to use a disposable :( So I have to go get it developed). Anyways, lets get on to the important part.

An ode to Mom

Thanks for raising me. I think you did a pretty good job, wouldn't you say so?

Thanks for giving birth to me. I'm sorry I was so huge (10 lbs!)

Thanks for calling me everyday just to see how I'm doing or to tell me a witty anecdote.

Thanks for being the coolest teenage mom. You are the life of the party. My friends always loved you more than me.

Thanks also for giving birth to my best friends. And could you teach me how to make all my kids be best friends with each other? I would hate for them to miss out on all the fun we've had and will have.

Thanks for dancing and singing in the house. I may act embarrassed but you know I'll be doing the same thing when I'm a mom.

Thanks for planning my wedding in less than 3 months. It was a little hectic but you always claim it was fun. Now that is positivity.

And thanks for your looks. People say we look alike and I will take that as a major compliment.

Love you mom, your the bestest!

And to a wonderful mother-in-law...

Thanks for giving birth to Brennon, I really appreciate it!

Thanks for raising him. I think you did an amazing job.

He claims he was a perfect teenager but I'm pretty sure that's not completely true.

And even though he is a man of few expressions, I know he appreciates and loves you so much, as do I!

Thanks for teaching him the value of hard work. He is definitely not lazy.

Thanks also for teaching him to be clean. Even though I don't have the same level of cleanliness as him, he keeps on doing the dishes and vacuuming the floors.

Thanks for being so welcoming and making me feel part of the family right away.

Thanks for always being so willing to help. I'm sure you passed that trait on down to your boys.

And thanks for letting me steal your youngest boy. I love him alot.

Love you Kathy!

Happy Mothers day to all last week!

Schools' for fools.

2008-05-08T20:30:00.000-07:00

Today was my last day of school! Every semester, it is the greatest feeling when you walk out of the last class and realize you never have to take that class again!(hopefully) I can't even imagine actually being DONE done with school. That seems so far away. But I am very excited for the summer and actually being able to see Brennon during the week! That will be quite nice.

Dang Paparazzi!

2008-05-05T09:25:00.001-07:00

Create Fake Magazine Covers with your own picture at MagMyPic.com

Reunion!

2008-05-05T07:56:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we went to the Valencia singles ward "Graduates" reunion! These are the couples that got married in the past year or so. It was so fun to see everyone again and see who's pregnant, who has babies, and who's doin what. I LOVED this ward when I was single and that was alot because of the bishop and his wife, Br. and Sis. Christensen! They are seriously amazing and we wanna be just like them when we grow up. They are just the greatest. Sis. Christensen made an delicious meal, the yummy salad from Cafe Rio. It was such a fun night!

Here's the group...

Watch out, she's legal!

2008-04-27T12:53:00.000-07:00

Saturday was my sister Kayla's 18th birthday! For her bday, we went out to lunch to the delicious Oregano's, where we stuffed ourselves with pesto pizza, Pablo Picasso salad, and pazookie! Mmmm...

Then Kayla and I did a little shopping.

Here's a little about my crazy sister...

1. She is the master at goofy faces. She's known for them and without fail will do one in every single picture. But the difference between her and I: she can actually make it look kinda cute. Me, not so much.

2. She's also gorgeous. Look at those blue eyes and flowing blonde hair. She's freakin Barbie.

3. She can dance like a mad women. It's probably because of her infamous "Gutt-butt" or "bubble butt". We all wish we had Kayla's bottom.

4. She is a fabulous singer and preformer. Like she could be on American Idol right now. Her preforming group "Light" has pretty much consumed her life in high school and I can tell she is just so happy doing it.

5. She is simply hilarious. We have had many good times singing loudly in the car, one octave higher than we should. Good times. She can always make me laugh even when she's not trying to.

6. She has more guy friends than she knows what to do with! And they are all amazing guys all on or leaving on there missions shortly. She now spends her days waiting by the mailbox to see which one she will recieve a letter from.

7. She doesn't care what other people think and she always stands up for what she believes in. I definitely look up to her because of this. She's not afraid to be a goof ball or a "goodie-goodie" and she is ALWAYS herself. And everyone loves her for it.

8. She's the best sister and my best friend! I almost daily express my hatred of BYU because the stupid school is taking her away from me in a year or so! I suppose I will survive, as long as she ends up here! She is so awesome and I'm so glad she's my sister! Love you and happy birthday!!!

Up in the gym, just working on my fitness...

2008-04-23T07:38:00.000-07:00

So today I tried fake baking. Now I know what you are thinking, Its dangerous, its stupid, you don't need it. Look at me in this picture and tell me I don't need a lettle color.

I've done it once in my life before in a laying down bed and it scared the crap outta me. But that was like 2 years ago so I figured I'd give it another try. Yeah, I'm still really freaked out by it. I did the standing up kind cause I've heard its better but no, still scary. For those of you that haven't done it, its like the Chokie on the movie Matilda, without the spikes. For those who have no clue what I'm talking about, its this small little room filled with those long light bulbs and you can't open your eyes or you die. Pretty much that's what it feels like. I'm not sure how people find this relaxing or even fun. I'm trying to decide if it's worth being tan and having to go thru this.

The one I went to was a bit nicer than this, but scary huh!?

In other news, I'm going to the gym regularly! For those who know me, this is HUGE. I'm not what some would call "active" or "coordinated". Throughout high school and even the past two years the gym has been a sort of foreign place to me. I'd go like once a month when I was feeling ambitious or fat. But now I'm a regular. I go like 5 times a week and do yoga at least once a week. I'm only posting about this cause I don't know how long it will last so I want to be able to look back on this and remember the good times.

I start my new job in approximately one hour! Wish me luck!

Update

2008-04-14T07:16:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the absence everyone. I know your probably all sick of the Sad day post.... I thought not working would give me more time but I've been a neglectful blogger. I will try and get back on the ball. Here's a bit of what's been going on in the Fish household.

I finally got a job! I start next week as a nanny for one little 2 year old. It's an awesome job cause its only a mile away from my house, flexible hours, and great pay. I'm also hoping it will be good birth control for the time being.

My sister-in-laws' killer surprise party. Her husband threw it for her and did a wonderful job I must say. He even planned a cute little who knows Cara best game that Brennon, Trevor and I were the finalists in, thank you very much.

This is the only real picture we got of the night, the actual surprise.

If you can't tell, the rest are staged. Cara and I were quite upset that no pictures were taken of the glorious party so the after party consisting of the 6 of us, staged some pretty life like pictures.

Happy Bday like a month ago Cara! I'm a slacker...

We also went to the Renaissance festival. We decided it's not as exciting as it was in 6th grade but still a good time had by all. We took Breea and her friend as well.

Had to get one of these pictures. Classic.

We enjoyed the wildlife.

And I fell in love....

No, not with him. Although that side/back fat is pretty sexy... Anyways, I really fell in love with frozen chocolate covered new york style cheesecake. Could there be anything better? I submit that there cannot!

This post will have to do for now as I am very sleepy. More to come....hopefully.

Sad day...

2008-03-26T06:09:00.000-07:00

Brennon just left til SATURDAY on a work trip. I'm not very happy about this. I don't think I would be a very good hunter's wife or army wife cause I can not stand it when he leaves.

Well... maybe this is the first time.

But I can already tell it's not gonna be fun. Anyways, just felt like doing a bit of complaining. I'm sure you'll hear alot more of me in the next few days. The combination of no husband and no job will leave plenty of time for blogging. The silver lining...

Beautiful

2008-03-21T06:34:00.000-07:00

This was on my aunt's blog and it is so beautiful. A photographer wanted to capture the life of Christ in real photographs and it is some of the most moving pictures I have ever seen. Check it out....

http://www.reflectionsofchrist.org/

Spring Break

2008-03-14T10:07:00.000-07:00

Last weekend as you know we went snowboarding. On this trip we realized that we are not really that into snowboarding/skiing. It was fun but we weren't like "Wohoo! Snowboarding!".

We got there right when it opened and went down about 4 times and we were done. This is partly due to my traumatic experience...

So usually we just go up the lift that takes you about half way up the mountain and go from there cause I know the trail. But since all the runs were open we decided to go all the way to the top, something I have never done before. I am shaking on the way up, not because I am cold but because I am scared out of my mind. I'm a wimp, I know. Anyways, we get to the top and and Brennon tells me to just stay on Sidewinder the whole way down. Easy enough right? So I'm skiing down and it gets to a T in the trail and Sidewinders' up to the right and I accidentally went down so if any of you have skied, you know its pretty impossible to go uphill. So I think it probably should meet up somewhere along the way. So I go down. About 2.5 seconds after I make this decision, I get this knot in my stomach when I realize maybe there are not green runs (the easy ones) all the way down the hill. So at this point I'm freaking out. Then I see a lodge. The run ends at a lodge. I then ask some hard core girl if there is any way to get to the bottom from here. She smart-allecly says "Not unless you wanna walk".

I seriously considered it.

Then I break open my trusty map and try to pull it together. I have to go back up to the top, which I wasn't really sure it even led to the top, and find my way back down. By myself. So, I get on the lift, by myself, and check the map again. I am shaking and almost crying at this point, thinking I'm gonna have to go down a hard run to get to the bottom from where was at. I took off my gloves to check the map and try and hold my poles all at the same time. So something had to give.

It was my glove.

It plummeted to its death, never to be seen again. This is when the tears came.

Well, it turns out I didn't have to go down a hard run the lift took me right to where I had "missed my exit", so I took that and ended up safely at the bottom, where Brennon had been waiting for me for 15 minutes. Besides a frozen hand and a bruised ego, I was fine. But done.

Luckily, Brennon was done too so we went to the car, ate our lunch, and headed back.

Here's a few pictures of this momentous occasion.

The evil mountain of death.

Since I don't currently have a stable job right now(anybody need a nanny??), I decided to go up to Jo City where my family was going and where all the fun happens. But Brennon couldn't come cause someone in this relationship has to be responsible I guess. It was the first time being married that we have been apart for a night. My family got pretty sick of me mentioning my husband that I missed on a daily basis. It was only 3 days so I survived. Here are some of the highlights of the trip-

We did some Hip Hop Abs. My mom and Breea were also there but this is the only picture I have. Yeah, go ahead, laugh it up. Who'll be laughing when I have rock hard abs?

Uncle Jason barbecued chicken and Kristal and I made it pretty. Your mouths are all watering huh.

We played a hard core game of volleyball. My mom and I were an unstoppable duo out there. That's me looking all sporty in the middle, probably about to spike it or something.

Another night we had a delicious dinner at Kristal's. I just thought the table setting was adorable and look at grandma's cute face.

The cute kids table. The ugly kids table not pictured.

We also did some singing around the piano which was lovely.

And he's just plain cute.

Breea and I also went with Kayla and Kristal to take her senior pictures. Yeah, she got the looks in the family. It was pretty funny trying to find cool places in Holbrook to take pictures. If any of you have been to Holbrook, you know what I mean. But Kristal could take pictures in a dumpster and it could go in Vogue.

We weren't really dressed to take pictures but still a cute picture of half my sisters.

So that was it. Kayla, Breea, Mom, Grandma and me all drove to Payson on Wednesday to meet Brennon to take Kayla and I back home. We ate at Chilies where we ate one of the most delicious deserts ever, The White Chocolate Molton Lava Cake. I thought it was fantastic, no one else really did. Seriously, amazing

This weekend we did basically nothing, which was great. Not looking forward to going back to school tomorrow, but I guess life must go on. Hope everyone's Spring Break was awesome!

Oh and I don't know if this video will be funny to anyone but it was hilarious in person. So, i guess, enjoy!

Dogs getting to know eachother

I'm glad you were born.

2008-03-07T12:00:00.001-08:00

Today is my wonderful husbands' birthday! He is now the ripe old age of 23. Were leaving out of town in 20 minutes to go up north to do one of his favorite things...snowboard! He loves it and looks forward to our once a year trips. I will ski a few times down the mountain, then sit in the lodge and drink hot cocoa. I don't have time to do a proper birthday post for my hun but I will when we get home. I love my Brennon! And I love this picture of him too.

Go to my mom's blog to get a better post! Love you babe!!

Are you getting sick of all the weddings yet?

2008-03-02T12:29:00.000-08:00

Me niether.

In the past 2 months, 3 more of my friends have tied the knot. I guess its the thing to do these days.

One of my best friends, Lisa, from high school was the first. I got to go to the weddding which was so fun and sweet. Even though I don't know him all that well, I could totally tell they are so perfect for eachother and it was that happiest I have ever seen Lisa. I think glowing would be the correct term.

This weekend there was my friend Malia's. She is one of the craziest, funest girls and definatly keeps our group laughing. Her Bachlorette party was last Saturday and was a blast even though it onlt got to stay for an hour. Don't worry guys, the bottles are just root beer.

Thats her with the crown, laughing.

Sorry its sideways but I dont feel like changing it. This is a Malia's reception this Saturday. Her dress was to die for and the whole reception kind of had a laid back country feel complete with sunflowers and adorable jars of candy.

One of my favorite things about all these weddings is that it gets all of us friends together. I LOVE seeing all these girls and wish it were more often! Some are at NAU, one's in Hawaii, some in Anthem so its so fun when were all here.

And the last one is Mckenzie. She didn't get married this weekend but a few of us drove to Anthem for her bridal shower. Our mini road trip was fun.

Ok, who does he look like to you??

James Van Der Beek from good ole Dawsons Creek that I was obsessed with for a while. Did I say was? I meant am.

V-day.

2008-02-15T06:43:00.000-08:00

We had a very nice, relaxing Valentines day. I woke up to these on the table...

Now you may be thinking, wait yellow roses symbolize friendship. Does Brennon just want to be "friends" with his wife? No, I just don't like the red ones. Too overdone. To predictable. I basically love any flower except red roses and carnations. Oh, and I'm not that fond of regular daisies but love gerberas. My absoulute favorites are hydrandea, tulips, daffodils, and stargazer lilies. Anyways, now you all know my flower preferences.

I got to cut and arrange them which I totally love and miss doing.

Then I went to school and had to give a speech that went way better than expected, which was nice. I then went and wrote a 3 page paper of bull in an hour and decided that I deserve to not go to my last class on Valentines Day. So I didn't. Instead, I went to Fry's and got Brennon's favorite cake mix and frosting, the rainbow chip kind, and went home to "build him a cake". I cleaned the house and packed our bags for our snowboarding trip this weekend. Well, Rachel and I will be skiing cause we are pansies. We'll actually probably spend most of our time in the warm lodge. But it will be fun.

Then I went and dropped by some valentines at my families house and taught piano for a couple hours. My mom gave me this...

along with a fish shaped chocolate. She thinks its hilarious to buy us fish stuff. Love ya mom and I LOVE the flowers.

I came home at 7 to Brennon cooking my favorite meal. Pasta. He got all my favorite stuff: the sun-dried tomato alfredo sauce, pesto to mix in, ceaser salad, garlic bread, and sparkling cider. It was DELISH.

This is what the table looked like. Can you guess which bag is for me?

He claims there was no V-day bags at Bashas but I think he just thought it would be funny to have a beer bag to give me.

Right after dinner he insisted that I open my card first and this is what I see...

Brennon was CRACKING UP. Classy huh.

Then I proceed to talk, giving a speech like "SO we've been married for what, 9 months now? It's going pretty good, right? I mean, were both happy, its working out. Well maybe we should take it to the next level...."

I got down on one knee and asked him to wear a wedding ring.

After 9 months of marriage, he has never had a wedding ring and he always says the girls are gonna hit on me and I dont have a ring to point to. Just joking of course. So I got him one. Off Amazon for 30 bucks. That was our limit this year.

But, I suck and it doesn't fit. So we have to send it back. I'm not a very good gift giver.

Then I opened my gift and it was this bath robe thingy that I have been wanting and a gift certificate to get a pedicure, which I have also been wanting. It was a thoughtful, sweet gift.

After all that, we just kinda hung out the rest of the night and Brennon was in asleep by 10 cause he had to get up at 4 this morning to go to stupid Tucson. Thats where he's been his whole life this week, so im kinda bitter.

So that was our first married Valentine's and I think it went pretty good. I love my husband SO much and all the sweet things he does for me. It's not really in his nature to go big for holidays, he's a pretty simple, easygoing guy and I love that about him. He definatly keeps me from going crazy. It's pretty crazy that our year anniversary is coming up so quickly! Feels like just yesterday....

Hope everyone's Valentine's day was lovely!

VOTE!

2008-02-08T06:04:00.000-08:00

This is my cousin Erica and her new fiancee Zach. You might know her as the hilarious writer of "tartraz".

If you have a minute, go to this link and vote for them for a wedding package. They are the finalist out of 100 couples!

Thanks!!

http://blueorchiddesigns.blogspot.com/2008/02/vote-for-giveaway-winner.html

Freakin awesome family

2008-02-05T19:34:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, lots of my family was in town for my Aunt Tammee's sweet little baby blessing. It was so much fun to have everyone in town. In the morning, Tammee, my mom and I went in search of a blessing dress fit for little Taryn Lilly Jones. It resulted in me becoming a tad baby hungry. But don't worry mom, not THAT hungry. But i definatly know where I'm getting my baby's dress in 2 YEARS. Adorable little place on Main. Anyways....

We found the perfect dress, it had a cape, a hat, and a bow in case she got tired of wearing the hat. She was well accessorized.

Now tell me that doesn't make you at least a LITTLE baby hungry. I dont care who you are, thats perfection.

On Saturday night, we met up with everyone at California Pizza Kitchen. Kristal and Jason came in from Jo town, Grandma and Grandpa, Tammee and Kieth from Virginia and the rest are Brimhalls. Quite a large crowd.

My lovely grandma presented Brennon and I with our Christmas present which was an amazing quilt. It is huge and beautiful and comfy. She spent so much time on it, I probably would have given up after the first two squares. Your amazing grandma!!

Thats her in the left and her sister in law on the right, Claudette, who is an amazing lady as well. Why do I have such a wonderful family!?

And last but certainly not least is my mother and aunt Paula. My mother kinda reminds me of a vantrilaquist doll right here, maybe because of the squarness of the mouth. I love it. You make a beautiful doll mom!

After dinner, we went to Passage to Zarahemela. Wow. Never have I seen a movie with such a wierd plot and completly bad acting. And mind you I was only awake for half of the movie. Yeah, I dont recommend it. As far as morman movies goes, I would say its even below Baptists at our Barbeque.