Week #12

Since I have changed jobs I have found it a lot easier to smell good and stay smelling good. Oh and this is what I am in love with. A friend of mine gave me the starter kit for the Wallflowers here and I was hooked. So since I don't have to come home smelling gross and I am in a much better mood all the time now I figured I would indulge and make the rest of the apartment smell as nice as I feel. So since the Wallflowers were on sale recently I splurged and now have 8 boxes. Well at least the house smells real good and I have enough for the rest of the year.

Week #11

Even though I am not a huge holiday fan this year I have to say I am very grateful for Thanksgiving break this year. We are not sure where we are going this year but aren't too worried. We haven't been home for a Thanksgiving in 3 years, so this isn't a new idea for us. The reason I am enjoying this Thanksgiving time is for several reasons. First of all I am not on crutches and secondly and most importantly there is no snow on the ground. Of course now that I say that we are going to be jinxed this week. No matter we are going to enjoy this week no matter what. Travis has a full week off of school and I only work 3 days this week so we are happy, healthy, and lov'in it!! Happy Thanksgiving to All!!!

Week #10

I am very thankful for answers to prayers this week. I have had a very stressful week. I kinda hinted last week that I got laid off. Well I wasn't joking. About two weeks ago I went to work thinking that it was going to be a normal day in my wonderful job (this is said with very strong sarcasm!) when after being there for an hour I was informed that the owner needed to let me go. Several emotions ran through my being, sadness, worry, fear, and all of thee above. I didn't let that keep me down. Over the rest of the week I applied for 22 various jobs, some being online and others hand given resumes. Yes it was a busy week. By that thursday I had an interview and job offer. I started at a retail store near by that friday. I am loving it! Sure I would have loved to start at some of the major Agriculture companies around town but that just didn't work out, and I am happy. I have been working there for just over a week and love coming home smelling good and with a smile on my face. I had been working for the Vet office for over a year and even though I enjoyed working with most of the staff I came home almost every night in tears. So this change in scenery was most definitely a blessing. I had started to think that my prayers were selfish and that I was meant to stay at the office. It just took Heavenly Father a little bit longer than I wanted thats all. But isn't that how it always goes, he knows the best time frame. I really like being happy now, and I am sure Travis can tell a difference as well.

Once Upon A Time....

We had a Halloween Bash and Birthday celebration for our favorite med student Travis. It was tons and tons of fun. I had a blast planning the whole thing and buying decorations for the fun time we were going to have. We had birthday cake (duh), bobbing for apples, bobbing for donuts, carved pumpkins, spooky music, costumes and more food. Did I mention we had tons of fun?! I even convinced Travis to dress up with me. We were Gothic/Punk Vampires (NO it had nothing to do with the Twilight books). We looked awesome, if I do say so myself. Then later in the month our ward had a Trunk or Treat for the primary kids. Once again I got way excited. We decked out our new truck and got all dressed up again. Have I mentioned that I LOVE Halloween? Yep I do and I am so sad that it is over. Oh well now I get to plan what we are going to do next year!!

Travis carving one of the three pumpkins we carved this year.

Headless Horseman

Jack the Pumpkin King

Our Slim Punch with a Brain floating on top

Some of the kids bobbing for apples

Now its the big boys turn. This is Gavin Ripp.

Nick Parkinson

Matt Pitcher

Who wants to Bob for Donuts? Travis and Gavin do.

How about all three of the Pluid guys?

Gavin and Amanda Ripp

I guess I needed to try

The Host and the Hostess after Trav blew out his candles.

Its Mighty Mouse, no just Alec Parkinson at the Trunk or Treat with dad.

Giving our some candy

I had so much fun

That was definitely the best holiday so far this year!

Can't wait till next year!!

*If you want copies of the pictures just leave your email and I will get them out to you. 

Week #9

Yep Ladies and Gents this is what I am grateful for. I have had several people look at me confused when I tell them that we are in the Air Force. I guess I can understand because I used to be in their position. This is coming from an Army brat who did not enjoy having her father away and what not. However I am sooo grateful for the decision we made to be part of this team. Not only do they pay Travis' way through med school so we are debt free but it opens up a lot more job opportunities for him as well. And hey if they want to pay for us to move over seas I will be jumping for joy. I want to go to Europe!! Its also nice to have the security that if I lose my job we will not be financially strapped (oh wait that already happened). 

Have a good Veteran Day to all of you who are and have worn a uniform.

Week #8

Guess what? It is almost over!! I am so grateful that this race is over this week. Travis and I took a little longer than some to decide who we each are voting for, but we finally have made our decision. Not to worry I am not going to push my opinion on anyone. Each person has their right to their opinion. I am just grateful that we will be free from the annoying commercials. So happy voting day to everyone. Make sure you make it to a polling place, your opinion matters.

*On another matter I was told by my loving husband that I failed in explaining properly why we purchased our new vehicle. Other than us wanting this type of vehicle for a very long time there were other positive points. Our Xterra comes with power everything, a 6-disk changer, 4 wheel drive (very important for our long trips), the seats sit higher (also important for long trips), driver, passenger, and side air bags (very important to me after the accident), plenty of trunk space, and the best part it drives beautifully!! So I hope this hits all the points for Travis.

Week #7

This week I really had to sit and think about what I am thankful for. I know that is sounds bad but our new car is what came to mind first. We recently bought our second vehicle. I was totally against showing it or telling anyone about it. I didn't want to brag and/or share. I know I am evil. To explain why we are so happy about this purchase we must have a little history. Travis for one has wanted a Nissan Xtera since they first came out 5-6 yrs ago. I was converted shortly after we started dating. We are major truck fans, and those that know me well will know that I seriously dislike sedans and vans. So after doing a complete search for a car that could handle snow well and will be comfortable for long drives this is what we ended up with. We got a mighty good deal and we have a blast driving it. Needles to say we are extremely happy. We love it!! I am sure the showing off will soon take place.

Happy Birthday!!

Travis celebrated his 28th birthday this month. Travis has mentioned ever since we got married that he would love to have a key board piano so he can play more and teach me. So since we have never gotten around to finally buying one I decided to surprise him. Since I have failed to surprise him with really anything I cam up with a plan. I decided to include both his family and mine with this fun gift. I planned the whole thing out a month in advance. It was tons of fun to see his face when I was able to give it to him. He really had no idea what I had been planning.

Since his birthday was in the middle of the week we didn't have a birthday bash until the weekend (pictures to come). We went to Chili's for the first time. I think he enjoyed his baby back ribs, what do you think?

He is such a happy Birthday Boy!!

Playing with his new toy!!

He never ceases to amaze me. I love you Travis!!

He loves his present. Thank you to all those of you that chipped in and helped make our doctor in the making happy on his birthday. We love you all!!

Crazy Eights

Eight TV shows I like to watch...

1. House


2. Fringe


3. Scrubs


4. Chuck


5. Reaper


6. Life


7. Nightmare Kitchens


8. My Own Worst Enemy

Eight restaurants I like to eat at...

1. Red Robin


2. TGIF’s


3. Chili's


4. Olive Garden


5. Panera Bread


6. Hardy's


7. Mandarin


8. Cheesecake Factory

Eight things that happened today...

1. Woke up


2. Ate breakfast


3. Read scriptures


4. Got ready for the day


5. Bought a few things at Wal-mart


6. Worked out at DMU


7. Drove to work


8. Read emails

Eight things I am looking forward to...

1. 6:00 today when I get off work


2. Intramural Volleyball game tonight


3. The week to be over


4. Our friends to move to Colorado so we can see them more


5. Christmas break to see Trav's family (we haven't seen them in over a year)


6. January rotation lottery


7. Seeing new places


8. Owning my own business (I hate working for someone else)

Eights things on my wish list...

1. Shoes


2. A new phone


3. A Jewlery box


4. A yard


5. A big enough kitchen that I can cook in easier


6. To learn a new riding technique (I am talking about horse back riding):)


7. Horses


8. A house

Eight people I tag...Linsy S., Tally T., Becca T., Brittany C., Karri S., Amy H., Kira C., and Brooke T.

Week #6

To go along with the previous post about my favorite season this post is about my favorite holiday. I truly am a strange person because I really do not enjoy Thanksgiving or Christmas. I love being around family but I have other holidays that are more fun. I love the 4th of July and Halloween. Both of these holidays have weather that you are able to be outside with the family and do favorite activities. I have been going a little crazy for the last week or two getting ready for halloween. We haven't been to a good halloween party since the party that my roommate threw almost 5 yrs ago. So since it had been so long I decided to throw one last saturday (pictures and post to come). Halloween has lots of fun things to look forward to. Pumpkin patches, apple picking, carving pumpkins, scary movies, decorating and then the change in season with all the colors that change around us. Oh how I love this time of year. What is you favorite holiday?

Week #5

I love fall. I know that doesn't make since from a girl who grew up in California but I love fall. I really don't like the summer time. I hate being hot, being in a swim suit and sweating no matter what you do. And then there is winter. At least it is better here than it was in Idaho. But I don't like being cold either. So therefore I love fall. I have really enjoyed watching all the trees turn color. The air smells fresh and crisp and I can get back to my favorite attire, sweat shirt and jeans. I am so grateful for the change in seasons that way we are able to see nature at work. Isn't gorgeous. Did I mention I LOVE fall!! What is your favorite season?

Another Tag

Fill in your answer using only one word. Tag 7 others!

1. Where is your cell phone? Cedarchest

2. Where is your significant other? Beanbag
3. Your hair color? Brown

4. Your mother? Supporter
5. Your father? Hero
6. Your favorite thing? Relaxin’

7. Your dream last night? Wierd

8. Your dream/goal? Happiness

9. The room you're in? Living
10. Your hobby? Horses
11. Your fear? Failure
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Residency
13. Where were you last night? Home
14. What you're not? Rich
15. One of your wish list items? Horse
16. Where you grew up? California

17. The last thing you did? Yawn
18. What are you wearing? Casual
19. Your TV? Football
20. Your pet? Cats
21. Your computer? Apple

22. Your mood? Excited

23. Missing someone? Yes
24. Your car? Nissan
25. Something you're not wearing? Socks
26. Favorite Store? Borders
27. Your summer? Vacation
28. Love someone? Travis
29. Your favorite color? Green

30. When is the last time you laughed? Today
31. Last time you cried? Yesterday

I Tag: Chrissy, Kira, Becca, Erin, Linsy, Karri and Lauralee

Tagged

You have to stop what you are doing and take the following pictures NOW. No excuses! If you don't have time to blog just take the pictures NOW and blog when you can!! No cleaning, re-arranging, just have fun taking the pics!

1. Kitchen Sink 2. Favorite room 3. Fridge 4. Closet 5. Laundry room 6.Self Portrait 7. Kids are doing, or what you are doing 8. Dream Vacation 9.Favorite Shoes 10.bathroom And I tag, Erin, Chrissy, & Linsy!

1. Kitchen Sink - Hey there are actually no dishes in there, MIRACLE!

2. Favorite Room. I love being able to relax in our office. It is where my reading lamp, sewing machine, craft stash, and computer is. We even have a comfy couch to relax on, perfect. :)

3. Fridge - I know kinda pathetic how empty considering I only work part time and we both love to cook.

4. Closet - This closet actually is the length of the doors on either side, however it is not wide at all. Kinda a pain when it comes to storing things.

5. Laundry Room. I love love love having a washer and a dryer of my own. Might not choose stack able when we have our very own.

6. Self Portrait - I really am not very photogenic, sorry its not better.

7. Yep these are our kids. They do keep us busy.

8. Dream Vacation
So Travis has been in contact with one of his families that he taught in Brazil. Their son is planning on going on a mission in roughly 4 years and wants us to visit before he leaves. So we are trying to save enough to be able to go.

9. Favorite Shoes
- These are the boots that I bought as a prize for being released from the doctor after breaking my leg. I have been wanting a pair of these forever. :)

10. Bathroom

This tag was kind of fun, but took me awhile due to the fact that I get distracted too easily :) from Kamala

Week #4

This week has been tough for me. I am really struggling with figuring out what I need to do to feel like I am accomplishing something. Through out this week there have been three people that have really helped me feel loved. The first of course is my loving husband. Travis has always been there and really is supportive with all my silly ideas. And the last two are my other two heroes. My parents are the greatest examples of enduring life and still loving family.

My mom is the coolest mom ever, and I am totally serious. When I was in high school all my friends would want to hang out at my house. I always thought it was to be with me, I think they really wanted to be with her more. My mom has given up so much to truly live up to the calling of being a mother. She has and still is homeschooling her children. Yes we drive her crazy sometimes but I would never trade the years for anything. She has always reminded me of my dreams and has reminded me that they can happen. She really is the best.

My dad now is unbelievable. For those that didn't know my dad was in the military when I was really young. We were stationed in Kentucky and then when his enlistment ended that is when we moved to California. My dad has done so much in the medical field, medic in the army, EMT, nursing school, and finally a chiropractor. Sure it was rough growing up with a dad that was in med school but he always had time to spend with his girls. He truly is my best example of enduring. He has had many struggles in is life but shows such faith and commitment to the lord. Since the Sacramento temple is only a 20 min from his doctors office he goes at least 3 times a week if not more. He is always reminding me that the lord loves me and that the trials are given to me so I can learn from them. Sure it was hard to tell my very practical father that I wanted to go to school for Animal Science but he told me that as long as I am enjoying what I do in my life that is what is important. I have always appreciated how both parents have supported me with all my career and personal decisions. I could never ask for better parents, they really are wonderful. I love you both and can't wait to see you.

Week #3

These are the best pictures that I have taken in a long time. Ladies and Gentlemen I would like to introduce you to the men in my life. The little black dude on Travis' chest is Cancun, a new addition to our family who was a stray from work who no one wanted, in the back ground we have Morocco (aka Rocco) the lazy old man of the house, and then the handsome man in the middle is my dreamy husband (duh). These three always have me grinning for some reason whether they are playing together or separately. Each of them is a one of a kind. I am so grateful for each of them. 

The cats because they keep me sane until Travis and I are reunited when we are apart. And Travis because he keeps me sane when I feel the world has turned against me (which is everyday I swear). I love all three of them so much and for so many different reasons. What I would do with out them you ask? Well honestly I would be one really bored woman. Trust me these three are seriously entertaining.

Week #2

I will have to say this week was kinda hard to choose. There have been several things that I have blessed with. But I will have to say that with the things that have transpired this week I am really grateful for the friends that are here in Des Moines and the friends that are far away. My friends have been with me through the really tough times and through the really silly and fun times. I am so grateful that I have found friends that have been there for me and support Travis and I through school and all. Those of you that have helped me know who you are and I appreciate all your prayers and support. It has really been a tough year starting with the broken leg, Trav's training, the car accident and everything else that has gone on this year. So thank you to you all you mean the world to me. I love you all, your are all wonderful.

Labor Day Weekend

Travis here, it's been a while since I've done a post. Since this post is about my parents, I was put in charge of making it, and that's why it hasn't been put up for a couple of weeks. So, like I said, my parents came to visit for several days, including Labor Day. Kamala and I took off a couple days from school and work and toured church history sites and visitor centers with them. It was a pretty fun few days. Day One we went south, stopping and Adam-Ondi-Aman, Far West, and Independance.
Mom and Dad, standing in front of the valley. By the way, it was way cool driving around Dad's Hemi Magnum! :)
We hiked around a little bit at this site as well. (another side note: Kamala's homemade tie dye shirt from achievement days!)
The site of the Far West temple. The four corner stones are still there, and this plaque has some of the revelations in regard to Far West engraved on it.
I like to call this one 'Dishrag tower'.

The Christus in the Independence Visitor's Center. This was the coolest visitor's center I thought. They had some really cool replicas of printing presses (below), log cabins, and apparently all of the visitor centers are getting a special presentation on families that was really good.


The other great thing about the Independence center was that we had an awesome missionary guide. She was so inspiring and spiritual.

DAY 2: On day two, we drove East to Nauvoo, IL. We started the day with a session in the temple. That was very neat because it's the first time I've been in the temple with my parents since our wedding day. Then we wandered around Nauvoo a bit and saw some of the restored houses. The gunsmith's house was really neat. We did a quick trip over to Carthage, but it was closed by the time we got there, so we just walked around a bit. Then we zipped back to Nauvoo to watch the older couple missionaries do some skits in the historic civic hall. It made for a pretty long day, but it was very humbling to learn about all the saints went through, and their patience in dealing with adversity and trials.

DAY 3: On this day we just relaxed. We went to the park and played some frisbee, barbequed some steak, and Kamala made some of her favorite salads. We also played some tennis after. I didn't realize Dad was so good at tennis, he wore me out. And Kamala continues to get better at tennis each day. At the end of the day I pulled out the OMM table and gave everyone some treatments to fix everyone up after all the hours of sitting in the car and from playing hard. So, it was a really fun week, and I loved having my parents here. They continued their trek following the mormon trail all the way back to Utah, and then eventually got back to Montana.