Emily's Blog

It's A New Post...It's A Miracle!

2011-01-17T21:52:00.003-07:00

I know I'm a slacker, but let's be honest...I'm not that exciting. School has started and is actually halfway done. Crazy huh? I'm having a great year and enjoy my class. After the year I had last year, it is so nice to look forward to teaching every day again. I know that sounds pretty bad, but last year was TOUGH! In September, I was also called to be the 1st counselor in the Young Women's presidency. Yep, it was a shocker! At first I was really overwhelmed, but I'm enjoying it and I love the people I serve with. It was nice to have everyone home for the holidays...the last two were pretty boring.

I still have the cutest niece and nephew ever. They make me feel so loved and happy.

Couches...AT LAST!

2010-08-08T15:56:00.005-06:00

This past spring I decided it was time to invest in some new couches...one just wasn't cutting it. It took me a long time to find something that I liked and I actually had to order them. In May, I was originally told 4 to 6 weeks, but 10 1/2 weeks later they've finally arrived. The complete story would make this post way too long. Even though they took forever to get here, I love them and am so happy with my purchase.

The Hike

2010-07-28T01:23:00.002-06:00

Jennie and I decided to be ambitious and took a hike up Waterfall Canyon last week. Needless to say we found out how out of shape we are. We decided to take a couple of pictures before so we could prove that we went, because the aftershots would've been less than flattering...ha ha.

Summer Project

2010-06-13T21:51:00.003-06:00

I'm a big blogger slacker, but I finally decided to write a post about how I spent my first week of summer vacation. After two and a half years, I was finally brave enough to do some REAL decorating in my house. My Grandma Kare is a very crafty person and textured her hallway this spring. When I saw it I fell in love with the idea. Therefore, I enlisted the help of my grandma and mom during the first week of June to help me texture, paint, and glaze the wall behind my bed in my bedroom. I LOVE IT! It turned out great. Thanks Mom and Grandma!

Yes...I'm Still Alive

2010-02-22T16:16:00.006-07:00

I'm so bad at updating this thing...so to those who actually check it, I apologize. My only excuses are that time has FLOWN BY and I really haven't had anything too exciting to share. I had an enjoyable holiday season and it was fun to talk to Tyler. He told us his release date is on July 20th...CRAZY! I can't believe he'll be home so soon. He's loving his mission and is doing a great job. I adore my niece and nephew...life would be so boring without them. Over the holiday, Alex and I went to see The Princess and the Frog...we LOVED it! Alex even wore one of her princess outfits for the occasion. I also turned 30 over the holidays...boo. However, my friends and family spoiled me by throwing me a couple of surprise parties. One was a decoy, but it was still a great festive event. All of my family and friends were there to help me eat cake, ice cream, and fondue. However, on January 2nd a huge group surprised me down in Salt Lake and took me to the Jazz game. My friends had taken my Ronnie Brewer jersey and got it signed. It was a wonderful surprise. Now, that the Jazz has traded him to the Grizzlies I'm truly saddened, but I will always love him. I had many texts and calls from friends and family to make sure I was okay after hearing the news. I truly am a loved person.

The family at the Christmas Village

Alex when we went to The Princess and the Frog

The Bear giving me my signed Ronnie Brewer jersey

My very own fan club

My Trip to London and Paris

2009-11-08T23:24:00.002-07:00

I know that I've been back almost a month, but today I finally got around to making a little slideshow. Enjoy!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

A Quick Little Survey

2009-10-21T22:38:00.002-06:00

Okay fellow friends...I have a quick question. Obviously I've struggled for sometime with updating my blog. A thought has crossed my mind lately and I need you to help me think things out. I have found myself communicating with others more on Facebook these days than on my personal blog. Therefore, I've been tempted to delete this blog. Of course, this doesn't mean I can't still go and view your blogs...it just means that I won't have a blog. So what are your thought...can I be done with this blog?

And We're Off

2009-09-13T11:12:00.002-06:00

Yes, I'm a slacker when it comes to updating my blog....so I appologize. However, I'm afraid to report to those who care that I'm probably not going to get any better anytime soon ;o). School has officially started and I feel like the minute I get to work I'm going mach 90. I seem to forget that every year it's like this at the beginning of school and frankly I can't wait for it to slow down a bit.
This past week has been exhausting but a lot of fun. On Tuesday night, my friends and I threw a surprise party for our friend Natalie's 30th birthday. We transformed my school's library into a casino called "Nattie Carlos." It looked great. We were the dealers for black jack, poker, and craps. It was fun and we had a great turn out...plus, she was surprised so our goal was accomplished.
Saturday, was my school's carnival. This year my school decided to make it bigger than normal because it is also the school's 30th birthday. I frankly think it's a little sad that my school was opened the year I was born, but o'well. Anyways, I was put in charge of renting and organizing things for a dunk tank. It took me some searching to find one that was available, but we were successful. The dunk tank was a very popular event at the carnival. We had teachers and other staff members sign up to be in the tank every half hour. I'm so grateful we only made it 30 minutes a person, because man those 30 minutes seemed like FOREVER. I think I was dunked more than any other person. We decided that those who are heavier were more safe, because it took longer to dunk them. One of our recess aides was in the tank right before me and he was dunked half as many times as I was...that's when we came up with the "weight theory." Anyways, it was a lot of fun, but I think I'll be draining water from the inside of my body for weeks to come. We took pictures of the dank tank and of the birthday party, but I don't have copies at the moment. So as soon as I get copies, I'll upload them for all to see.
Another fun fact, is that my roommate and I are leaving for London and Paris in 2 1/2 weeks. I can't believe it is so soon...crazy! Therefore, until then I will be planning my guts out at school in order to get things ready. This is also a good clue that my next update won't be until after I get back....ha ha. Thanks for reading!

IT'S BEEN A YEAR!!!

2009-08-03T14:51:00.002-06:00

This is my tribute post to my brother Tyler. On August 15th will his official "hump day." Can you believe it? He is currently serving in the Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada Mission. He's doing awesome and loves the work. He has served in some pretty interesting areas from Thompson (the north pole) to right above the American border in an area called Moose Jaw. Some of his adventures have included trapping animals like Jim Bridger, visiting an indian reservation, ice road trucking, going to the local rodeo, driving a tractor, and working at the stockyards. Tyler is a great letter writer and all of us who get to read them are entertained weekly with his latest update. We are touched my his testimony and how much he's grown. The people of Canada truly love him and we are being blessed by his decision to serve a mission. We just got a package in which he included some fun pictures and video clips of some of his fun adventures. The slide show below are a few of what he sent us. They made me love him more! We love you Ty...keep up the good work!

June Update

2009-06-24T12:04:00.008-06:00

I've had a fun month despite the never ending rains. I love my summers off and it's mainly because I get to do the things I can't do during the rest of the year. I just got back from spending a couple of days in Lake Powell. My friends and I had a great time and many laughs. I'd have to say my tube ride with Morgan was definitely one of the highlights. Yesterday, I got to go swimming with Kristen, Alex, and Boston. My niece is a fish and has no fear. We had a great day at North Shore. Softball, gardening, and other random events fill the rest of my days. Can't complain...life is good.

Me, my mom, and Boston

My friends and I at Rainbow Bridge

Swimming at North Shore

Fun Happenings

2009-05-26T23:58:00.003-06:00

Two weeks ago I got to run in the Ogden Marathon. I did the relay marathon with my cousins Tesha, Maddi, Laura, and Tesha's sister-in-law Holly. I ran the first 7 miles. I finished in 57:56. One of my favorite parts was watching my parents filming the event as I was running to meat up with Maddi. I have to say my dad's video footage is pricelss. Our team did great and I had a lot of fun.

Another exciting happening is that I'm an aunt again. Derek and Kristen had little Boston on May 16th...their 6 year anniversary. He's a cutie. We're not quite sure who he looks like. Sometimes we think he has a little of Alex, a little of Derek, but then again no ones really sure. All we know is that he darling!

The last happy happening is that my summer is officially starting Saturday. I can honestly say that I've had a great year. My class made teaching enjoyable and I will miss them. I'm looking forward to getting things done and spending time in the sun....Yahoo!

Just Pluggin' Along

2009-04-15T20:38:00.002-06:00

Howdy Blog Followers....I wish I had tons of fun things to share, but alas my life is pretty normal. However, there are a few things that have made life enjoyable as of late. The first one is of course my darling neice Alex. I wish I had an updated picture, but I don't so sorry. She is the funniest little girl and we are the best of buds. This last weekend, we had a family Easter party. When it came time for the 'hunt,' my mom hid her basket up in a tree. When she told Alex to start looking for it, Alex put her little hand on her chin and while looking around said, "Hm...where is be? Where it be?" All of us couldn't help but laugh. I've also enjoyed the spring weather....when its decided to show itself. Not going to lie...it's time for the snow to go! Bring on the summer sun. I only have 31 days left of school and then the fun really beings...can't wait. For some crazy reason, I have agreed to run the Ogden Marathon Relay in May with some of my cousins. Running isn't really my favorite thing to do, but for some reason I like the challenge of being able to finish without walking. Another thing that also has been brightening my days, are getting the weekly letters from my brother Tyler. He's currently serving in Thompson, Manatoba, Canada. He's been out about 8 months and is doing fantastic. His letters are always filled with great stories and adventures. The Lord truly knows where to send his missionaries...he's in his prime. Well, that's pretty much me at the moment....thanks for reading!

The Totally Gnarly Birthday Bash!

2009-03-08T00:06:00.003-07:00

In February, my friend Tylor turned 30. Following the 30th birthday tradition of our friends, we celebrated his birthday by throwing an 80s birthday bash. We rented out the Classic Fun Center in Layton. Our guests were encouraged to wear 80s clothing and could only skate on the old-school 4-wheel skates. Let me tell you...THEY CAN KILL AND ARE VERY DANGEROUS! I just got rid of the massive bruise on my rear to prove it. The party was totally rad and we had a crunk time skating to tubular 80s tunes. I've also decided that whoever thought crimping your hair looked good...is delusional. However, I am proud to report that I did win for the best hair of the evening. Enjoy the pictures!

Movie Review

2009-02-08T22:07:00.003-07:00

Yes, I'm lame and can't really think of too much to blog about. Therefore, I decided to share my opinion on a couple of movies I have been to lately.

1. TAKEN: I went to Taken with my pals and LOVED IT. I would highly recommend going to see it. It was suspenseful and intense. Let's just say if I got kidnapped, I would like my dad to have his skills!

2. NEW IN TOWN: One night my friend Jennie and I decided to go see this cute chick flick. Even though I'm not a huge Renae fan, I enjoyed this movie. I'm even considering purchasing it when it comes out on DVD. If your are looking for an enjoyable, feel-good chick flick...go see this movie.

3. HE'S JUST NOT THAT IN TO YOU. My lovely friends (guys and gals) and I went and watched this movie on opening weekend. It wasn't exactly what I thought it would be, but I enjoyed it. The guys in our group even enjoyed it. There were a couple of inappropriate things in it, but it had some great one-liners and laughs. It has a loaded cast and does a great job intertwining the characters.

20 Things About Me

2009-01-07T23:30:00.006-07:00

I've been tagged! My friend Jennie took on the challenge to list 20 random things, shortcomings, facts, habits or goals about herself. Now she has tagged me and it's my turn to do the same thing. Once you’ve read my tag, you have to write a post with 20 random things, shortcomings, facts, habits or goals about you. I'm going to follow the lead of my friend Jennie and tag everyone who reads this. Let me know when you complete the 20 interesting items about you so I can read them too!

1. In May, I'm going to have a brand new nephew.
2. I never put toenail polish on my pinkie toes, because my toenails are too small.
3. It is my goal to be debt free by the end of the year (excluding my mortgage)
4. I've kissed a fish on it's mouth for $5.00.
5. I've worn a toe ring constantly for the last 8 years.
6. I love to organize things...yes, I'm a little OCD.
7. I hate clutter can be a clean freak.
8. I love that my Dad calls me "The Princess."
9. I'm a scaredy cat, but try not to let that stop me from trying something new, because I would hate to miss out on something great.
10. I love to water ski.
11. I would live by water and on a beach if I could.
12. I have been to 27 states (28 if you count Puerto Rico) and hope to visit all 50 (51 if you count Puerto Rico).
13. My favorite color is red.
14. I don't mind driving in the snow.
15. I don't hold grudges, and think they're a waste of time.
16. I have a really hard time allowing people to help me.
17. I believe everything happens for a reason...there are no coincidences.
18. I'd live in a swimming suit 24-7 if I could.
19. I love to laugh.
20. I love to do active things, but I hate to exercise.

ChRisTmaS TReeS!!!

2008-11-27T01:37:00.006-07:00

I love decorating Christmas trees and this year I got to do two! This year my peer leaders at school donated a tree to the Christmas Tree Jubilee. My friend Liz and I had to be creative and come up with an idea that 50 kids could help with. We were so excited with how it turned out.

This is also the first year I've had a house and Christmas tree of my own. So exciting!!! You need to know that my friend Liz is one of the most creative people I know. One day the two of us found ourselves at Tai Pan and we started creating the Christmas tree that would go in my house. I fell in love with glittery red and gold. Of course now my house is covered in it...but I love it!!! The picture doesn't do it justice, but it's the best I could do.

ThE PriNcEss PaRtY PoD!!!

2008-10-20T23:24:00.007-06:00

This past Saturday my ward had a Pinewood Derby for our monthly activity. Jennie, Natalie, and I decided to totally go for the cutest car in the competition. Therefore, we decided to make The Princess Party Pod...painting it pink with glitter and rhinestones. I used to make Pinewood Derby cars with my brothers when they were in scouts, but it was totally just for fun. Our ward had no rules...it just needed to fit on the track. I pretty much made it just like I had when I was little, except that instead of BB's and hot glue for weight, we used fishing weights and construction glue. Our car was definitely not the heaviest car there...we were somewhere in the middle. However, I put some graphite powder on the wheels and axles before the competition...just like we did when I was little. Each car got to race 4 times...once in each track. There were some cars that were amazing and kicking everyone's trash...so we thought we were dead in the water. We raced in the 2nd to last group of cars. Needless to say, after watching the previous competition we didn't have much hope and were pretty much just hoping not to finish last.
HOWEVER, The Princess Party Pod was amazing and smoked everyone...it even beat the top times of the night....we were shocked! In my mind, I was thinking..."You've got to be kidding me...that did not just happen." But then our car proceeded to win the rest of the night! My friends and I were amazed...even a little giddy. There couldn't have been a better surprise. Needless to say, some boys in my ward weren't as happy, but who cares....OUR GIRLY CAR KICKED THEIR TRASH!!! Just remember, it's all about friction, not the weight.

I'm in LOVE with Kaua'i, Hawai'i!!!

2008-10-04T19:06:00.009-06:00

I just got back from spending a wonderful week in Kaua'i, Hawai'i. Thanks to my friend Steve and his sister Natalie, I was able to score a buddy pass. My friend Tylor, Steve, Steve's girlfriend Jen and I had an awesome time. Other members of Steve's family and a couple of their friends were able to come for a while too. We had a lot of fun and many adventures. I would love to go back and stay forever...because I've decided that reality is not as fun. We did everything from body surfing, to hiking, boat ride along the Na Pali Coast, to kayaking, and learning to surf. Below I have a couple of pictures of our adventures.

Steve, Jen, Me, and Tylor at Queen's Bath.

We were the best surf students ever....Tylor and I decided we want to go back and becoming a surfing instructors.

Yeah, I've got skills!

On the beach at a luau.

Me on a hike above the coast.

Hawaii was soooo beautiful!!! I have tons more pictures, but I'm a little too lazy to upload them all...but at least this gave you a little insight to what we did.

I'm Officially on a Drill Team!

2008-09-21T22:58:00.004-06:00

So for our ward talent show this past Saturday night, my good buddies and I decided to become the 13th ward drill team. Yes...we were spectacular. We had professional help from Natalie's sister-in-law, Chalee. She was the best coach ever. We only practiced twice, but hey when you have talent...who needs to practice right? I suggest you take a look and see for yourself. Enjoy!!!

I've Been Tagged!

2008-08-23T01:28:00.002-06:00

I've been tagged by my dear friend Nat to list My 5 Favorite Things. HOWEVER, I had a hard time narrowing it down to a top 5, so know that there are many more I could add to this list. So here it goes (sorry no pics to illustrate).

1. My Family. I have realized, especially within the last year, what a wonderful family I have. It is amazing how close you can get and how much fun you can have when spend time together. I have the two most loving parents a girl can get. I admire both of my brothers for who they have become and I love spending time with them. I have one of the best sister-in-laws a girl could ask for and the cutest niece. I concider myself a lucky person to have such a family.

2. Laughter. I love to laugh. Laughter can brighten your day and lighten your mood. There are people in my life that have the ability to make me laugh no matter how bad my mood is or what type of situation I'm in. To those who make me laugh...keep up the good work.

3. Traveling. I love to travel and spend time seeing new places. The tropics are towards the top of the list, however, places like New York, Boston, and Washington D.C. are places that I'd go and see again in a heart beat. Now all I need is someone to pay for me to see the rest of the world.

4. Friends. I have been blessed with many sets of friends throughout my life. I am so glad that these friends have helped me enjoy life to the fullest. So many great experiences and opportunities in my life are a result of these friendships.

5. Boating. I love boating for many reasons. Its a time I get to spend with my family, a time I get to spend skiing and soaking up the sunshine, and of course you can't forget, that if I'm boating, it means its summer and I'm on summer vacation. I could list more reasons, but I won't.

I tag: Shan, Jennie, Morgan, and Jeanne

Celebrations!

2008-07-22T11:21:00.010-06:00

This past month has been a busy one. I've had family reunion, fireworks, birthday bash, a wedding, a concert, etc. Enjoy the pictures!

Girls at the 4th of July fireworks.

Peep Pyramid at WSU's fireworks.

Wiseguys with Marcus

Camp Beaver-Thompson Family Reunion.
Dad, Alex, me, and Tyler

Getting Ready for Scott's Birthday Party

Me kicking Angie's trash at Scott's Party

Gals at John Mayer concert

Man I Love Summer Activities!

2008-06-24T23:25:00.012-06:00

So far this summer hasn't had too many BIG events...except the high school reunion. However, I have fun playing with my friends. Here are some pictures...enjoy!

Morgan and Me after my attempt at playing tennis.

My friends and I at the Raptors game.

Friends and I after our FHE swim party.

Can't Believe It's Been 10 Years!

2008-06-17T14:11:00.007-06:00

This past weekend was my 10 year high school reunion. I can't believe it has really gone by that quickly...it definitely doesn't feel like it's been 10 years. I have to say that alumni night was my favorite, but I'm glad that I went to both. It was fun to see people I haven't seen since high school and others that I haven't seen for a while. It just goes to prove that good friendships last. I wasn't that good at taking pictures, but here are just a couple of me and some of my buddies.

Jason, Brett, Janelle, Melissa, and Me

Missy, Me, Janelle, Trisha, Mand'e, and Natalie

Erin, Tasha, Jen, Me, and Shelli

Summer's Here!

2008-05-29T21:28:00.002-06:00

As of last Friday, school officially ended and I am now on summer vacation. I can't say that I have anything really planned this summer....no vacations or big trips...just everyday life. SO if anyone gets bored and wants to do something...let me know!

I Love Being An Aunt!

2008-05-06T13:49:00.005-06:00

I love being an aunt! My niece Alex is so much fun. She is seriously the cutest thing and she knows it! It's amazing how boring life was before she was around.

Alex and Aunt Em

Alex, Aunt Em, & Grandma

Frontrunner

2008-05-01T15:31:00.003-06:00

Last night a group of my friends and I wanted to experience the Frontrunner while it was still free, so we rode it down to the Gateway and had dinner at Z Tejas. I have to admit the ride isn't that bad. It was longer than driving a car, but if I had to drive down to SLC in nasty traffic everyday, it would be totally worth it. I loved how tall you felt when you were riding on the top level. Of course the highlight for any rider would have to be the wonderful scenery...let's just say that the Frontrunner doesn't necessarily take you through the most beautiful parts of Northern Utah...refineries, trailer parks, etc...

I'm Orange

2008-04-22T10:14:00.010-06:00

I kind of hate subjective tests, because I usually have the hardest time choosing between answers. However, this personality test wasn't too bad....I was orange. For some reason it won't show what orange means...it's stupid. Therefore, to see what orange means select or highlight the box and the words will appear...strange, but true.

What's Your True Color?

My Result: Orange

You're a bold, confident orange. A warm, powerful color that indicates a strong, welcoming personality, orange is the mark of people who are social and extroverted by nature. Vibrant, with an upbeat attitude, you have a bright, inviting demeanor. Energetic and fun-loving, you're a real friend-magnet. Your easy charm and unassuming manner make you the sort of person people want to meet and get to know better. Well-rounded and fun to be around, you enjoy helping others, so it's no surprise that orange also symbolizes attraction. Orange is an extraordinary color — for an extraordinary person.

What are you?
http://web.tickle.com/jumpto?test=colorogt&c=50652

Have A Try!

2008-04-07T17:17:00.001-06:00

Ok...so I totally stole this off of my cousin Kami's blog, but it's a lot of fun and I wanted to share it. Honestly, I don't remember taking a timed test since jr. high or high school. Enjoy!

62 words

Speed test

Oh The Pictures That Reappear...OH DEAR!!!

2008-04-03T16:33:00.006-06:00

You've got to love the pictures that you forgot were taken. In February, we had a cookie exchange for Valentine's Day at work. Each person brought a batch of cookies and then took home that many cookies home in exchange. The lovely ladies sharing my table thought it would be so funny to push all of their plates my way and then snap a photo...this is the result. This picture surfaced today when we were looking through some pictures we took of our students' recorder recital. All I have to say is that if this really came true...you have my permission to intervene.

My 20 Favorite Things About Summer

2008-03-27T11:52:00.004-06:00

The nice weather this past weekend only made me more anxious for summer. I also figured out that I only have approximately 8 more weeks left of school...yay! On my way to school this morning, I was thinking about all of the things I'm looking forward to with the coming of summer. So enjoy my top 20...

1. Water skiing and boating
2. Getting tan...I know I'm a little vain, but I love tan lines!
3. Freedom from work
4. Wearing flip flops
5. Wearing shorts
6. Warm summer nights
7. Playing softball with my family and friends
8. Sleeping in
9. Spending time at Bear Lake
10. Trying to improve my golf game
11. Drive-ins
12. Putting in my new yard
13. Taking vacations
14. Family and friend BBQs
15. Riding my bike
16. Catching up on my scrapbooking
17. Starry nights
18. Going to Flaming Gorge with my family
19. Eating watermelon
20. Anything you can do the in the sun and water
I LOVE SUMMER!

Yes...I am a Princess!

2008-03-05T18:02:00.002-07:00

There are occasions when I am called, "The Princess." It's usually by my dad when he's jokingly asking where I'm at or if I'm ready to go somewhere. However...deep down inside I believe every girl's a princess...heck why not? Jennie showed me this fun little quiz to see what princess you are most like. I'm most like Pocahontas, BUT I'm also close to being about 12 other princesses, so don't forget to scroll down after you take the quiz to see the breakdown of your princess characteristics. Enjoy!

http://www.greatestjournal.com/quiz.bml?Q=16354

We Should Invest in Yoplait Stock

2008-02-26T16:21:00.004-07:00

My roommate Jennie and I have a problem...we are obessed with Yoplait yogurt. We have taken full advantage of the "20 for $10" sales at least 3 times within the last two months...most recently on Saturday. However, last night we went to the local Lee's Marketplace to get some treats for FHE and discovered that they were having some amazing "Grand Opening" sales. So after FHE, we went back to buy a couple of 'must haves'...and discovered that they had Yoplait yogurt on sale "3 for $0.99". Of course we already had a plentiful supply, but who can pass up a deal like that? Needless to say, we bought more and at the last count had over 30 Yoplait yogurts in our fridge. There could be worse things right?

I Love the Jazz!

2008-02-24T19:39:00.010-07:00

I will be the first to admit that I am a huge Utah Jazz fan. I have been a Jazz fan forever, however I must say that my love for them was renewed last season. Change is good and the Jazz definitely needed it. I am quite impressed with the draft picks and the trades made within the last year or so. Anyone that knows me, knows that I would marry Ronnie Brewer in a heart beat. He is my fav and I love watching him play. I have been to 4 Jazz games so far this season, 2 in the lower bowl. It is a sad fact that once you sit in the lower bowl...you never want to go back up top. However, any true Jazz fan like myself, never refuses Jazz tickets, so if you ever need anyone to go...I'm your girl!