Seasons Greetings!

Make a Smilebox greeting

We decided to make an enviromentally, cheap, and easy Christmas card this year. Enjoy! May your holiday be merry!

Merry CHRIST-mas To All!

With the holidays and the hustle and bustle of so many things edging to take priority, I have been feeling a bit bogged down with Christmas. I wish it was called CHRIST-mas so that so many people wouldn't feel bad about not getting gifts, or not giving gifts, or not having family, or having too much family. Most of all, this season is all about celebrating what makes us the happiest in this world. For me that is CHRIST. I am so grateful that he loves me and that I have a Heavenly Father who loves me too--despite all of the things that I do wrong or could do better. I am grateful for family, and due to that, here are some way cute videos of our little "Angel." She is really precious and we thank God for her everyday. She always finds a way to show us that life is not as hard or as evil as we see on the news. With just a little faith, and a lot of love, anyone can be as happy as Sophy (well, almost anyone...she is such a happy baby!).

Why I Believe What I Believe

In a world where persecution of religion is seen as an act of civil liberty, in a world where those who have no choice are killed at a rate of 40 million per year across the world (more than all deaths in WW 1 & 2 combined through the span of 14 years), in a world where popular "buy now pay later" plans have lead to "economic uncertainty," in a world where The One who gave us breath and "one nation under God" is not allowed into schools, or into the government which He helped to inspire...it's hard to believe that we really are that thankless. Can we not see what we are doing? With all of the crime, poverty and uncertainty, I felt it would be important to share a few of my beliefs.

What I believe: I believe in a country where those who help others are thanked. I believe in a country that loves others and wants to do the best for everyone. I believe in a government that asks for help and guidance from the One who is central to our creation. I believe in God. I believe that He has a plan for us. I believe that He loves ALL of His children. I believe we should never be afraid to share good things with others in a world of sorrows. I do not believe that this truth would impose on anyone, but includes everyone. I believe that there is more to this life than superficial self-gratification and eventual death. I believe in Christ. He is God's Son. I know that He suffered dearly for my sins, weaknesses and inadequacies. I believe in the ability for every person to do better and be better than they think they have the capacity, through Him. I believe in friends. I believe in forgiveness. I believe I can learn through suffering and trials and become stronger when I ask for spiritual guidance. I believe that God loves His children so much that He does not leave us alone in our struggles, but is waiting for us to ask for help. Afterall, how could it hurt?

I believe in something more than this life, and that is what makes me happy. That is what keeps me waking up every morning. That is what helps me to want to "pay it forward"-not just because I'll get something from it eventually, but because it's the right thing to do, what He would have me do. I believe that He works in miracles everyday. I believe He will come. I believe we are loved. I believe in miracles, yes, even today. In a world where many will fall for anything, isn't it better that I believe and will stand for something? Why is belief a "controversial topic" in a world where there is such a need for strength of character and spirit? I know that eventhough my life doesn't make sense at times, that eventually I will see the reason for the paths I've been directed down. I love taking strength and courage in following Him, and I love Him for helping me to see more than what meets the eye. Why do I believe this? Because it is where true happiness is found, especially in a world where many find joy in sadness. I believe ALL can take JOY IN THE JOURNEY!

Thanksgiving etc.

Here are some pics of our festivities:

Here are the details:

• Officer Skinner Funeral: A police officer whose family live in our neighborhood died this month. They had just moved in, had twins and the first Sunday they came to church is the day that evening that Officer Skinner was killed in a collision chasing a stolen car. We didn't know him well, but it was great to see how the neighborhood has supported the family. It gave many of us an excuse to get to know each other better. The open house I went to was PACKED with people and community donated cookies. The site was very amazing. It reminds me that eventhough bad things happen, good things can come too. Here's a newslink about it: http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=4794286
  
• Sanitize!: Troy, Sophy, (Kara part of the time she was here) and I have been sick this month. I feel like I've not been able to get out of the house since August, and I feel like I'm always doing laundry, cleaning throw up and outfits other family members as well as my own. We are hardly every sick though and when we do get sick, it's usually October or November so we expected it.


• Jazz Game: Troy got free tickets from work for the Jazz vs. Chicago game this month. We went on the FrontRunner and even bought food there (we went all out!). It was so much fun to see the Jazz in action and would have been a perfect night if it weren't for Chicaco's last split second win.


• Sophy is nearly walking!: We are so proud of our sassy girl. Each day this month she has seemed more determined to join the "human world" and leave the "baby world." It makes me sad but excited. She stands all day long now (for practice I assume), and will take a few steps on her own from mom to dad. I got impatient and bought her a grocery cart that's really neat. She loves being independant (with supervision) and playing with all the sounds and lights. Since she doesn't know what Christmas is and we'll be in WA anyway, we're planning on wrapping it back up and letting her open it for Christmas too.
  
• Thanksgiving in Morgan with Troy's family: What's not to like, family, food, kids, fun, etc. I am so grateful to have family close and to have family far. My sister came to visit. It was great to have part of my family here for a holiday. Because of scheduling and money, we haven't been able to spend much time with my family for holidays in years, so it was great to have Kara here. We saw Twilight, played many card games, watched many movies, had Troy's family up a few times, went down to spend time with them, she got to go 4-wheeling in Morgan, and get her hair cut and dyed.

Here is a video of Sophy "walking":

Pumpkin Pancakes

This may not seem important, but we've had them 4 times since I found the recipe. You may know that I am addicted to pumpkin (have been since I was pregnant and can't stop). This is my new favorite pumkin recipe. I am open to anyone else's favorite pumpkin recipes too!

Pumpkin Pancakes

3/4 C Flour

1 tsp Baking Powder

1 tsp Baking Soda

1/2 tsp Salt

1/2 tsp Cinnamon

1/4 tsp Ginger

1 C Evaporated Milk

1/2 C Pumpkin Puree

1 Egg

1/2 tsp Vanilla

Directions: Mix and cook like regular pancakes. Yummy! Try with whipped cream and hot cocoa on the side!

Happy Halloween!

We have been trying to be more active and do more for the holidays (get involved and have fun instead of saying "we have a baby, we can't...it would be too HARD, and take too much planning...maybe next year.), so we did! Sophy was a pumpkin (there's a funny story to that: I craved pumpkin of all different varieties during most of my pregnancy-not just the fall) and we went to three Halloween parties! 1) Troy's cousin Marie invited us up to their house for doughnut eating, apple bobbing, baby looking (lots o' cute kids in cute costumes!), galore! 2) The ward had a Trunk or Treat in the church parking lot. We brought our strollers and enjoyed free doughnuts (I think Troy has a fettish) and hot chocolate. 3) On Halloween Night we went to Troy's parent's house and ate Chili and breadsticks, went Trick or Treating (I know we are too old, but it was fun--we took Sophy as our alliby) with his sister Trisha (a Monster drink-costume made by her and Troy's dad, foam!) and her fun friend Jared (the oversized midget on a box). We also threw caution to the wind and went to a very cool corn maze (with some very good friends and our kiddos) in Syracuse and then out to dinner at Famous Daves (there's a reason they are famous!) for tummy stuffing! Hope you enjoy our pictures!

Sophy Update

We've had a lot going on lately. I got a MAJOR haircut by our professional neighbor, Debi Ingles (if you want contact info, e-mail me) who does a great job! I wanted it to look like Amy on Disney's "The Kid," and look how close she got it! Here's some cute pics of Sophy and friends. Thanks for being our friends Tanner, Madeline, Lily, Wiliam, MacKenna, Autumn, and others not pictured. We learn alot from you!

Happy 3 Years Troy!

On October 20th, Troy and I celebrated our 3 year anniversary. We went bowling (he won both games and got to choose lunch and what we'd wear going out in the evening), hiked Ensign's Peak, dressed up and went to our favorite pasta place: Spaghetti Mamma's, went to a movie theatre (that didn't exist anymore because it had been turned into a Haunted House and they hadn't updated the website), went home and rented a movie, went to the temple the next day to celebrate our marriage sealing, went to Troy's parents house to pick up Sophy, went the senic route to Park City and went shopping (browsing) and came back home to relax from all the fun. Here are some pictures from each event:

I can't believe that it's already been three years. Time has gone so fast and we are having so much fun. Troy is such a great husband. When I go crazy (which seems to be more frequently everyday), he takes the time to listen to me even when he's tired. He is funny, handsome, romantic, spiritual, consistant (which I need a great deal!), humble, a hard worker, wonderful cook, my best friend, and so much more than I could ever dream of deserving when we first met. I pray everyday that I will be able to let him know how much I love him. Thank-you for supporting me through all my many issues (small to large), and LOVING me despite it all!

The Choice to VOTE!

This year, more than ever before it seems, the choice to vote is on the front of many minds. A friend of mine sent me a link to this video. Please take the time to view what our friends from the Catholic church have to say about the importance of voting. There are many issues that, no matter what your beliefs are, have the opportunity to change the world that we live in....that CHANGE could be for the better--or the worse. Much of the decision is up to us. Lets do what this country was made free for-VOTE!! If you are not already registered, there is a link on their site, just to the right of the video entitled "Register" that will give you the information needed to do so. http://www.catholicvote.com/

Life Lessons Learned Today...

And more to come, I'm sure. Yesterday I took up the challenge to make Chicken Fajhitas and they were (and I quote Troy) "AMAZING! And you can add these to my list of favorite dinners!" He said they looked like a meal from a fancy $10/plate+ restaraunt! I had already made bread that turned out really well that morning, and I got so excited that maybe I could cook afterall, "Today is My Day!" etc., so I decided to venture to make Snickerdoodles that night too. Afterall, they are fairly easy to make and I've made them several times before, even batches good enough to give away to neighbors! So I endeavored the task. I was so proud (too proud I found out later) when I put them into the oven, that I remarked to Troy at how fast I made them and with such skill. Well, I had tasted the batter and it didn't seem perfect, but then again eating batter is not good for you anyway, so I figured I shouldn't use that as a taste test of my delicious cuisine. When they came out I tasted them and learned the following things:

1. If something is labelled "not too bad," it's probably "not too good" either.


2. Not just ANY cookie is a good cookie.


3. Maybe quality control/inspection teams are not a waste of $ (that's for you Corianne and Katie).


4. It's okay to WASTE IT if you WANT IT NOT.


5. It's not okay ot leave out 2/3rds of the sugar to a sugar-based cookie recipe...it may sound healthy, but it isn't good for anyone.


6. It's okay to spend a little more $ and buy good quality butter flavored shortening instead of cheap quality vegetable shortening...in some (many) cases, you CAN tell the difference.


7. Sometimes (most times in my case) husbands are right about how you should cook.


8. It is ALWAYS a good idea to stop talking and read the recipe properly.


9. It's okay to throw out a bad batch of cookies. No one will benefit from eating them (not the starving children in China, not even your neighbors' kids!).


10. Something that looks pretty, isn't always good on the inside (or for your insides!), and as we know, it's what's on the inside that counts...no matter how much "frosting" we add to "sweeten" the bad deal. :)

Well, with more lessons to come, I am reminded that I am supposed to continue to work on "creating" things. President Uchtdorf's talk at the Relief Society General Conference Address was spot on about women, me in particular. I loved how he spoke highly of women and their talents. We are to aknowledge that we are on earth to create things. Whether or not those things turn out well, is mostly irrelevant. All that matters is THAT we create and continue working on that everyday. My cookies may not be good today, but if I continue to work on them, someday they will be worth eating! Baby Steps, right? :)

To: Grandmas of the World!

You'll love these video clips! We have had so much fun with Sophy lately that we haven't had time to share her with you! Here are some video clips of her most recent advancements. She is not only an expert crawler, she is an expert climber. She is also working on and will add to her list of accomplishments very soon, walking while holding onto something. Thus the reason that mom hasn't had time for blogging. :( She's been giggling and crying a bit about her two new teeth that have come in on the bottom, with top ones coming in soon potentially.

Sophy is playing with neighborhood-twin Anna Wilson. She is very confused about why Anna gets to sit in her chair. Jealousy over toys is beginning already... (if you notice, in the beginning of the clip, cute Anna sticks her lizard-like tongue out at Sophy as she is Queen of the Exersaucer!)

Here is a clip of Sophy climbing. She is such a little adventurer and so strong! I think you'll see that she is learning to walk a little (though she's learned more since this clip was made) from object to object, claps to show excitement and approval, and can wave to say "hi." I am reading up on "Baby Signs," and it seems that she is more than ready to begin learning those...really she is trying to teach me to communicate with her!

And our little crawler... She definitely keeps us on our toes. Now she crawls from the livingroom to the kitchen in 1-2 minutes flat (and used to be splat) to be with mom. Separation anxiety has set in a little bit, but mostly she's just really excited about her new talents.

Sophy's 7 Month Update

Sophy is now 7 months old! She is crawling (described as more of a "Michael Phelps" crawl, but she's getting it), and loves playing "peek-a-boo" above the bumper (sometimes pulling the bumper down for a better view) in her crib when she wakes up from her nap. She stares at the door while giggling or screeching until mom or dad comes, then she can see us right when we come in the door. At her 6 mo. appointment she weighed 15 lbs. 10 oz. (50%), her length was 26" (60%-tall? wierd!), and her head 40.5 cm (25%--which is odd because the Dr. said that last check up it was 70% and they must have measured "a bit too large".). She thought that crawling was the neatest thing for a little while, but now that she's learned to climb a bit, that is the coolest. She is eating solids fairly well. Loves oatmeal, peaches and suprisingly peas, and is getting used to the other foods quickly, although her favorite food comes straight to her after mom or dad have eaten a bite. On the day she turned 7 months, her first tooth poked through! She's still teething so we're sure that there are more razor sharp teeth to come soon! We are so proud of her. She is learning so much and growing so quickly, we can hardly keep up with the books on what she's supposed to be able to do!

Dad & Sister Visit

My dad drove my sister, Kara, down to visit on her way back to college at BYU-Idaho. My dad stayed for a week and we did quite a bit of site seeing, picture taking and playing with Sophy. It was great to spend time with him. We toured the Utah state capital building after its recent rennovation, ate at Memory Grove park, toured Temple Square, played Ultimate Frisbee, weeded the Garden, ate at Texas Roadhouse, visited with Troy's family, and visited with my Dad's family. For living in Tacoma, Washington, I sure have been blessed to be able to see my family a great deal lately. The top slideshow is my pics and the bottom is my dad's.

Emily's 27th B-day!

No matter how old I get (after the age of 17), I am astonished with how fast time goes by. I can't believe I turned 27 this year! It was a good day. Troy was very excited to give me my present: a "Cricut Expressions" which is essentially a fancy cutting machine so that scrapbookers don't have to buy packets of letters and pre-cut shapes. It also cuts out vinyl, which we are very excited about because we can make customized sayings and put them all over our home! (If anyone wants to play with me, feel free to let me know!) Sophy and I played during the day (I dressed her up in a "You are my Sunshine" shirt and skirt--see, I CAN be girly...on my b-day!). When Troy got home we went to the Bountiful Temple and did marriage sealings for people who have died already. It was a really neat experience and I thought alot about our temple marriage and how much we've been blessed. Then we went to dinner at the Spaghetti Factory (Sophy loved the bendy straw we let her play with), and to purchase vinyl and came back home to play with my present. I think Troy enjoyed shopping for it because he spent a considerable amount of time going through the technological things it could do and making sure I knew how cool it was. I was just happy to be able to make my own cards! ;) Then, on the following Sunday, Troy's mom and I made a new invention called "Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes" for my birthday. They were soo good! (Marie Calendar--if you are reading this: You should NOT have discontinued the Boston Cream Pie. I out ate many people on that pie and no longer have a record to hold!)

Fun Times with Sophy and Friends!

We have had a great time with friends coming to visit recently. We wanted to show a little slideshow of those pictures. We are so grateful for the wonderful friends that we have and all of the fun times we've been blessed to have. Here's to YOU!

And a cute "photo-shoot" of pics of Sophy. I couldn't help myself! TOO CUTE!

Summerfest is OVER!

The international event, "Summerfest" that I was a part of is finally over. I loved most every minute of it, and so did Sophy! I am very grateful to have had my mom come up from Washington again to help watch Sophy the first part of the week, Troy watching her on Friday, and his mom on Saturday. Sophy loved the loud noises (until it was past her bedtime), friendly people, and beautifully bright and elegant costumes. She was known to many of the event staff and smiled and encouraged everyone just when we truly needed it. Troy not only helped to watch Sophy when he got home from work, but picked up 15-20 dozen doughnuts from Banbury Cross EVERY DAY. Of course, since he picked them up, I let him have first pick before we brought them to the park for the volunteers the next day. I don't think I've ever seen/eaten so many doughnuts in my life. Somehow I lost weight too! I highly recommend the Banbury Cross doughnut diet to anyone!

The first day, Monday, we served lunch to the 120-200ish performers who had just performed at year-round elementary schools throughout Davis and Salt Lake counties. Wednesday night was the Streetdance. Main street in Bountiful was literally shut down while the performers had 15-20mins per country to show the public a "sneak peek" of their dances as well as inviting the public to join in with them! It was so much fun! My relatives came up from Oak City, Provo, and Springville, UT and we had a great time. I took my suprised Aunt Lynnie by the hand and we joined in with the Costa Ricans for two dances. Friday and Saturday were pretty amazing. The performers danced and sang in full costume from 10am-10pm at the Bountiful City Park. On Saturday, however, while the Russian Cossaks were dancing a blustery windstorm came through and they kept dancing! It was the most beautiful thing I'd ever seen. Their dancing was beautiful and you could feel the point they were trying to make as the air swept their hair and costumes back and forth very dramatically while they moved synchronistically to the music. Another part of the Summerfest was the Loom from the Ming Dynasty. It was on display throughout the week in the Bountiful Rec Center. This loom took 7 people to operate at once and they would use it to make clothes for the Emperor.

The part I did for the event was to help organizing the volunteers. I did some organizational help before the event, and then througout the event, I'd help volunteers get checked in, T-shirt, and badge, and show them where to go and what to do. Additionally, I'd check with the different Event Managers to see what help they needed and we'd allocate un-busy volunteers to those tasks. I had so much fun and learned a great deal. I love Bountiful. There is such a great sense of community and people have fun at the city events that are organized. The weather was great. The crowd was wonderful. The Volunteers were EXCEPTIONAL!! Thank-you to all that can hear my voice and came to help and be a part of such an exciting event.

My favorite part was meeting the performers. They were very friendly. In talking to them, it wasn't difficult to tell that they were excited to be here and that they love performing. I couldn't help but be touched as I watched the performers dance and interact with other performers. I thought about the contrast between this world and the "real-world" we live in. It was amazing to me that while the world seems to be in great turmoil, these countries all came to America (Bountiful none-the-less) for the same purpose, to dance, sing, and be happy. During this week, it seemed there was peace on the earth, and possibilities for future happiness.

Summerfest is coming!

I have been helping the Bountiful Davis Art Center gathering and organizing their volunteers for the Summerfest International coming up next week. We are still running short on volunteers in a few really wonderful opportunities to serve. The shifts are only a few hours and your family can enjoy the festivities at the park at the same time! The Summerfest dates are Thurs, Aug 7th-Sat, Aug 9th. See link for more info on the event: www.bdac.org . Current needs are listed below:

Hospitality: We need adults who will be helping to serve refreshment and encouragement to the performers. This is a great opportunity to meet people from another country and watch the performances at the same time!

Shifts still open are:

• Friday (Aug 8th): 1-4pm, 4-7pm, and 7-9:30pm
• Saturday (Aug 9th): 10-1pm, 1-4pm, 4-7pm, and 7-9:30pm

Children's Art Yard: We need Adults/mature Teens who love interacting with Children. This service includes helping Artists assist children with various art project from around the world. If a parent would like to do this with 1 or 2 of their children that would be perfectly acceptable.

Shifts still open are:

• Friday (Aug 8th): 10-1pm, 1-4pm, 4-7pm, 7-9:30pm
• Saturday (Aug 9th): 10-1pm, 4-7pm

Grounds Crew: We need responsible kids with parents/Adults who would be willing to be the "eyes and hands" of the park keeping it clean and safe. Volunteers will be running items from one booth to another, looking around for garbage on the ground/things out of place. If a parent would like to do this with 1 or 2 of their children that would be perfectly acceptable.

Shifts still open are:

• Friday (Aug 8th): 10-1pm, 1-4pm, 4-7pm, 7-9:30pm
• Saturday (Aug 9th): 10-1pm, 4-7pm, 7-9:30pm

If you or anyone you know would be interested in helping the Bountiful Davis Art Center out with this fun and exciting community event, please feel free to e-mail me at: smilyrunner@gmail.com with your contact information, who will be coming, and what shift you would like and we will let you know where to be and what do to. Thank you so much for any assistance that you can be. I understand that the summer is very busy. This would be, in my eyes, a wonderful way to serve, have a date night, help in a community, and get out and do something fun!

Lake Powell Trip

We were nervous about going on the Family Lake Powell Trip this summer. 1) It's in the middle of July, 2) We have a 5 mo. old baby 3) She wasn't known for sleeping anywhere but her crib, 4) etc. We decided we should go, for Troy's B-day and to get a "break." One thing we realized is that it's harder to relax when you go on vacation with a baby, then before you had a baby. Another thing we realized is that she is very adaptable and is just fine with new things. She slept well. Not as well as we/she'd have liked, but well enough, and she smiled and laughed the WHOLE trip. We kept ourselves busy in the 2.5 days we were there. Our activities included, but were not limited to: Swimming, Tubing, Water Skiing, Boating, Hiking to Anchient Aztec ruins, eating good food, celebrating Troy & Tyler's b-days (twins), spending time with 16 other family members, and my favorite--jumping off of the top of the house boat. I hadn't been water skiing besides a few times before I was pregnant, so I was nervous, but did very well. We had such a fun time and can't wait to go back!

The houseboat jumping was interesting. I'm very much afraid of heights, but I've been trying to get over it for a while. Many other individuals on the trip had jumped off of the top of the houseboat into the deep water, and I decided that was my next "adventure" (as if child bearing, riding "Wicked," and all the other "death defying"/"fear inducing" activities I've done haven't been enough). I had the best coaches in the world, the most inspiration, and the most determination. One person was watching, time passed, 3 people, 6, 12, came out to see the "spectacle" and give their advice. Eventually after I realized that Sophy does harder things everyday, and our family motto after all is: "We do hard things!", I jumped. It took me 40 mins and over coming the hardest fear for me: falling. Afterwards I was relieved and went home happy. I know that it doesn't sound like a big deal, but I know that Heavenly Father helped me to feel comfortable in challenging myself to overcome this obstacle. I will be able to teach Sophy more when I understand more. I know that when I trust in Him all things will work together for His good. His good may not have been for me to jump off of a houseboat, but what if what is required is harder than that for me someday? I need to practice doing hard things now so that when the time comes for the hardest things, they will seem easier to me.

Troy's Birthday!

We have been celebrating Troy's 25th birthday for 2 weeks now! We went to Texas Roadhouse for dinner (Sophy dressed up), took a test-drive in a Toyota Tacoma (Troy's favorite vehicle-Sophy fit in the back of the 4-door better than in our Passat!), he got a new SmartPhone (so he can check off his "Honey-do" List, I'm sure!), a Magic Bullet Blender-his idea (which we ended up being dissappointed with and will return it. Those infomercials really get you sometimes!), Orange Sliced candies (his favorite), a cake at Lake Powell, and a Waterfall landscape piece for our front yard (to be put in with Troy's dad's help later this summer). Man! We sure love Troy! It's hard to believe how fast time flies, and how much fun one little (itty-bitty) family can have. Thanks for working hard, playing hard, and loving us all Troy! Happy Birthday!!

Sophy Turned 5 Months!

Here's an update on Sophronia's development:

• Sophy has been drooling over our food and pretending to chew while we eat, so we decided it was time to see if she was ready for rice cereal and a high chair. From the beginning, she was a pro! It seemed like we had a 1 yr old on our hands! She loved feeling the texture of the food with her tounge and the chair with her hands.


• This week she turned 5 months old and the next day it seemed like she'd had enough sleep and wanted to learn new tricks. So, she began rolling. She would wake up and practice in her crib. I would find her at the end and trying to roll even further. She's sitting up on her own (for the most part), playing on her tummy with toys, and saying "Lalalala" over and over again.

Happy 4th of July & G-ma Anderson's Visit

We had a grand ole' time for the 4th. We went to the Layton parade and Sophy giggled when we covered her ears as the firetrucks and police cars came by with their sirens blaring. Too much fun with G-ma! Then we went to Morgan for a picnic buffet lunch and 4-wheeling extravaganza. Sophy even enjoyed the 4-wheeling! We didn't take her very far, but she loved the bumps and the wind and being able to see everything. We think she'll love driving, but we won't think about that now!













Grandma Anderson came to visit from Washington. She and I played with Sophy a great deal, made a skirt, and went to Lagoon. She watched Sophy while Troy's birthday wish was for me to go on the "Wicked" awesome ride with him. I couldn't believe I agreed to it, but what can you do when a birthday wish is on the line? When it was over, I was so excited I wanted to go again, but Sophy wanted to go home. Here's a picture that Sophy took of Grandma Anderson and then some pics from Lagoon.

June 2008

Here's a slideshow of the month of June:


It includes:

• Sophy's Friends: (listed in order of appearance) Griffin, Alex, Jarom, and Bunny- part stuffed animal/part soft blanket.
• Sophy's Tricks: She's become quite talented lately. She accidentally turned her mobile on in her crib before we came to get her (guess she wanted to get the party started without us). She also has been showing us how flexible she is by eating her feet and sometimes her hands at the same time!--though it's been difficult to get that on camera. She's been learning a great deal playing in her ExerSaucer (though she can't understand why the large objects don't fit in her mouth. Afterall, her feet do!). The mirror has been her new best friend. She seems very excited and shy to meet the baby in the mirror. She can crawl up things and scoot on her back quite well. The trick that seems to work the most is her smile. She is already getting away with far too much!
• Mommy's Race: On June 28th, Emily ran her first 5k since Sophy was born, The North Salt Lake 5k Fun Run. Her only goal was to finish, and she almost did, but had to walk a few steps toward the end of the race. She was very suprised to find out that her run was in the 26 min range and she ended up placing 2nd in her age group-winning a prize waterbottle! Sophy and Troy were there cheering her on, and that made all the difference!
• Gerber Family: It's hard to believe that Sophy is almost 5 months old. She is talking, eating, and sleeping up a storm, and LOVES to be a part of everything! The College even gave her a Westminster bib sporting Westminster Class of 2030. Scary to think that she'll be going to college someday, much less, moving around!
  
  

Volunteer Event

Well, anyone that knows me knows how much I enjoy keeping busy and love the chance to help managing events--it may just be my weakness (or my strength depending on who you are I suppose). I recently have become involved in the coordination of the volunteer aspects for an event called "Summerfest International." The event is a weeklong celebration of International performances, art and food from 10 different countries around the world. It is similar to an event I assisted management of at Westminster. The difference is that they are bringing in the performers from the actual countries they represent! I love the people I've been working with so far, and I am loving the opportunity to gain new experiences in the Event Management world.

While I am not incharge of the advertising for volunteers, I told them I would help out because I believe this to be an amazing opportunity for anyone who needs something to do, wants to share your testimony, meet new people, experience cultures from around the world, work on your second language, or most importantly wants to be more involved in the community.

The event itself runs from August 4-9th, 2008 and is held mainly in Bountiful Park. Here's a link to the event: http://www.bdac.org/summerfest/summerfest.htm. The performers are coming from China, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Greece, India, Israel, Mexico, Mongolia, Romania, Russia-Cossacks, Russia-Siberia, and a clogging group from the USA. There are currently volunteer opportunities in many areas and schedules to fit the needs of the volunteer.

• Host Performers in your home during event
• Poster Distribution before event
• Runners to pick up and drop off In-kind donations
• Grounds Crew keep park clean and safe (get to ride 4-wheelers!)
• Security during event
• Stage/Lighting for performances
• Park Set-up/Tear-down before and after event
• Serving Food during the Mayor's Reception
• Sales Booth during the Street Dance
• And More!

Volunteers who qualify will be treated to a complimentary breakfast, lunch, receive admission to the Summerfest International as well as the Bountiful Rec Center-during the week of the event-and of course, a new and nifty free T-shirt, and so much more!

To sign up for the opportunity to be a host family and/or volunteer during the event, fill out the form at: http://www.bdac.org/summerfest/contact/volunteers.htm or contact me at smilyrunner@gmail.com with any questions you may have.

Graduation Day!

Today Troy graduated from Westminster College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science. The ceremony was wonderful. Gov. John Huntsman spoke, and there were bagpipes galore. Sophy didn't mind the first half of the ceremony, but screamed louder than most of the proud parents during the second half. Her reason: they were interrupting her nap. Mom and baby were in the hall watching Troy on a TV as he walked across the stage. Grandma and Grandpa Gerber came to watch Troy and hold Sophy. We had fun! Troy has worked for the college full time while going to school full time and this semester started a new job, trained people in a few of his old duties, had a baby (with some help of course), finished his classes as well as a senior project. The greatest part is that he was able to receive the award of Magna Cum Laude at graduation, meaning that he maintained an average GPA of 3.75 all 4.5 years!! We are so proud of Troy and excited to have him home with us more often. Way to go Troy!

Troy's Graduation Present

This was a fun project. For Troy's graduation, I put together a book of photos from our wedding, 2+ years of marriage, and Sophy using http://www.mypublisher.com/ . I just downloaded the pictures and put them in the order and place I wanted along with arrangement of the different pages and how many pictures, then clicked "publish" and they printed the book out and sent it to me. You can even view it online! Click on this link to view it.

What is it with me??

What's with this day?? This morning I almost hit 2 baby chicks that were walking across the street. Then I went to the Gateway center with Sophy and a friend and it took 1 hr 15 mins to get there because the President's Motor Brigade was clogging up downtown for a while. (Apparently he was also visiting the First Presidency of the LDS Church. For more on that story click here. ) While we were driving to an alternate shop in another area of town, my friend said "Watch out for the dog." I was confused because all I saw was a bird that I tried to avoid. Once I looked where she was pointing I saw a dog darting out after the bird that I tried to avoid...which I also was in danger of hitting. Then we finally got to the Gateway center, made our purchase (sport apparel) and were driving home. We were almost to our development when a black cat moesied across the road infront of us. All in all it was a fun day--fyi: no animal or otherwise deaths were caused from my driving an arguably grandparent-style vehicle at a normaler than average speed. I can't believe that all happened before 6pm! Guess I shouldn't try to leave the house afterall!

Manacotti Formaggio

I've been trying to cook more lately, and it's been going pretty well, I think. Troy is still healthy, and I haven't endangered Sophy by eating anything I've made that was poisionous--so far. I've found much joy in baking bread and we are trying to use the homemade bread instead of having to buy the storebought stuff. The first two batches weren't perfect, but the third should have no reason not to be. My favorite part is pounding the dough! I can't wait till Sophy can do this with me so that I can have a reason for acting childish (I've never needed one before, but it's nice to know there is one, nonetheless.). As for dinner, one of my favorite first tries that turned out much easier than it should have been was this lovely Manacotti (seen below).

I found it interesting that 2-3 recipes I found for Manacotti included broccoli. I don't think I've ever had broccoli in my manacotti before, aber es ist sehr gut! (I'm trying to keep it up Eva. I'm thinking about including "secret" German sentances on the blog meant only for those who know German. We'll see how brave I get.)

Here is the recipe--compliments Jenn Woodruff

1 box Manacotti shells

1 box chopped broccoli (cooked slightly)-small box

1 can Cream of Chicken

3 eggs

1 (12 oz) Cottage Cheese

1 jar Spaghetti Sauce

Grated Cheese

Mix ingredients in a bowl. Fill manicotti shells and place in bottom of 9x13 baking dish. Pour jar of spaghetti sauce on top. Cover with foil. Bake at 375 for 45-60 minutes. Enjoy!

Mother's Day 2008

Mother's Day is always an extremely happy day for some, and an extremely sad day for others. Why are women always hard on themselves? I think it's because of the innate desire within us to become mothers. Mother's Day was very hard for me last year. It seemed like the day to have children in our home would never come, then when Heavenly Father said we should start trying, it seemed like it was taking forever to get pregnant. Last year, during Mother's Day, I cried, not knowing (why are women like this sometimes) if I could have the kind of patience He was requiring of me. Little did I know, very soon after Mother's Day we would find out that we were having a baby! It seems like such a silly thing to worry about now, though I know it is hard for many women. This year is such a different year, and we are so grateful for the trials we've been blessed with that have helped us realize the gifts and goals Heavenly Father has in store for us. His plan is so much better than our own!





Here are some pictures from the Thanksgiving Point Mother's Day luncheon that Troy's mother took me to this year. The speaker, Anita Stansfield, was amazingly realistic about the way we should see our lives. My favorite thing she said is: "Don't let the gifts you've been given get lost in the chaos we live in." Afterwards, we walked through the beautiful gardens and spent time with the women in our family. Mother's Day isn't just about being a mother of your own children. I think it has more to do with appreciating the special gifts that all women have while honoring and respecting women for all that they go through to make this world a better place. I am so grateful to all of the women (and especially my mother) who have taught me how to make it through hard times with a smile on my face and a song in my heart.

Sophy's 3rd Month

Alot has happened in one month for Sophy: (read below if you want to, or if you are a visual learner, we've put together a slideshow with pictures and music!)

Below you'll find a slide show of our endeavors this month. Enjoy!

• We took her to WA for Emily's brother Jake's wedding. We were nervous about the plane ride as she was barely 2 months old. We were greatly blessed when she slept the whole way the way there, and on the way back she seemed to enjoy the sudden "rush" of take off then slept the rest of the time. The wedding was beautiful and it was very special to see her brother married for time and all eternity to an amazing girl. We are lucky to have Liz in our family now. Emily even saw a favorite senior missionary, Elder McCammon, from her mission in the temple that day!
• While there, we visited Emily's high school friend, Donna and her beautiful baby Chloe who was born shortly after Sophy. It was amazing to see the resemblence between them! When we went to get some food, the cashier asked Donna and Emily if we were sisters also! Kindred spirits, and best friends for years. It was great to visit Emily's hometown of Tacoma again. It's been almost 2 years since we've been there for a trip longer than 3 days. This trip was not long enough either. Why does life have to be so busy sometimes?
• Sophy's exercise regime is getting more intense lately. She is loving to sit upright like Mommy and Daddy. She likes sitting in the "Bumbo" chair while Mommy cooks, and especially on laps while we are eating with other people. She seems to be talking much more and it is normal now to hear her "singing" off and on for 20 mins at a time to make sure we are listening to her. Sounds are a little like Tarzan and a little like the princess on Enchanted.
• Besides those excercises, we are most excited about her new love to roll over and "scoot." When we push her leg to the side so that she can get her momentum right, she can roll over the rest of the way onto her tummy, get her arms out from under her, and then immediately put her head up and move her arms and legs as fast as she can while making "work out" noises or grunts (which for her are actually squeals--very cute). The first time she did this move, she became so excited and was sure that meant she could crawl. After 3 mins of only slight forward movement, she's decided to take BabySteps(TM) again.
• She is completely out of her newborn clothes now, but still much smaller than other babies her age. She's little like us so far. We tried some 3 month clothes on her for fun and they are huge! She loves to take a bunny attached to a small blanket with her everywhere we go and whenever she gets nervous about bumps in the road or such, she holds on tight with a big smile. She seems to like speed and going fast...interesting ;)
• Emily's Grandpa and Grandma Sperber came to visit for just under a week. We had so much fun playing with Sophy, visiting Oak City relatives, going to the Mayan, and just playing around the house. It was great to spend time with them, and Sophy loved looking at their faces and smiling and laughing.
• We went to the park with our good friends and cousins, Jon, Marie (she is Troy's cousin), MacKenna, and Autumn. They just now moved to New York so Jon could sell APEX alarms for the summer. We are going to miss them very much. MacKenna is so cute and always petting Sophy softly and saying "I love Sophia. I just love her so much."
• We also said goodbye to our friends Miriam and David recently. David just got a wonderful job working for the government in Virginia. We will miss them too. It was nice to get together with friends we hadn't seen in a while before they left.
• We tried out the new "FrontRunner" commuter train that goes from Ogden to Salt Lake City (and will eventually go to Provo) with Sophy. She was tired, but all in all we had fun!

We are so proud of our sweet Sophronia. Her nap and sleep schedules are getting easier for her (teaching herself to fall asleep a bit too!). She loves going for walks and runs (Emily is getting back into shape finally!). She loves smiling and boy does she seem to be a fast learner! She is very determined and seems to love most everyone she meets. She loves to smile the most at her dad. We know she'll get away with much. :)

Sophy is 2 Months Old!

Our cute April fool... "Help mom, I'm stuck inside my PJ's! April Fool's!" (see the hidden smile) Along with the "I'm too cute for this silky blanket and my mom says my favorite color is purple" look.






Nap time with mom. Look how cute Sophy is! She says, "Mom if I look this cute will you give me real food soon?"









Let the games begin! She is a movin' and a groovin' as well as practicing her "Daddy, mom won't let me go out on a date yet, but will you?" look.

Princes William and Mason come to play!

We had a blast when Corianne and Heather came to play with their little ones for a quick stop around Easter weekend. Now not so little! William and Mason are 4 days apart. Sophy was taking a nap when this picture was taken. Wiliam had just learned to roll and Mason learned how to weigh down Sophy's bouncer chair. What talented young men she'll have to choose from!

St. Patrick's Day!

Courtesy of a kind neighbor, Sophy was sporting green on St. Patrick's day. Take a look! Notice the "Lucky Charm" shirt and the fancy bracelet. Thanks Agelee!

Grandma Gerber comes to visit!

Grandma Gerber came to see Sophy and give her a very nice blanket she had made. You can see it to the right. When Grandma Gerber was very young, people sould call her Sophy too! They are good friends.

3 Weeks - 4 Weeks Old!

Sophronia Camilla Gerber(TM)

You asked for them, here they are... pictures of Sophy!